Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Bookings are the lifeline of your business because they provide immediate income, future bookings, and lead to new team members. Following are four simple ways to increase the number of bookings you receive at every show.

Ask Every Guest
Without a doubt, the most successful Direct Sellers ASK EVERY GUEST “when” (not “if”) they would like to hold a show/party of their own. The more people you ask, the better at it you’ll get, and the more bookings you will receive. In addition, when you ask every guest to hold a show, you are increasing the chances for the current hostess to receive more credit.

Get Your Hostess Involved
Your Hostess is the key to receiving numerous bookings from every show. Ask your hostess to:

1. Have at least one booking before her show
2. Ask friends and relatives who cannot attend to hold a show of their own
3. Let you know which guests are most likely to book a show
4. Play at least one booking game at her show

Also, plan to re-book your hostess for another show within 90 days.

Control Your Schedule
When scheduling shows, use only the current month calendar. If you present a future hostess with an entire year, chances are she will flip ahead to the next month to select her date.

Highlight in a special color “Key Dates” on which you would like to book your next shows and offer an extra incentive for selecting the next open date.

Expand your “income-earning hours” by offering creative daytime alternatives for shows, for example: Office Lunch-hour Shows, Five O’clock Happy Hours, Start-the Day Shows, and Sunday Brunch Shows.

Reduce Cancellations
Do not schedule shows more than 30 days in advance and always fill your booking schedule for the next week before moving to the following week.
Release the “obligation” when someone has booked a show only to help the hostess. “Ellen, I know you booked your show to help our hostess Carol, but I want you to have this show because you want it. Which items are you most excited about receiving FREE with your hostess credit. (Bring them to her.) Great Ellen. Let’s set a goal for you to receive all these products FREE by having a really successful show. Can I count on you?”

Secure the booking “Ellen, I am so excited to hold a show with you. You and your guests will have so much fun! Because this is my business and I always keep my schedule full, I would appreciate holding your show on this date I have reserved for you. I promise I’ll be there come rain or shine. Can I count on you to do the same?” “Great!”

Jane Deuber is a Co-Founder of the only association dedicated to the needs of the independent party plan and network marketing professionals. Discover what makes the DSWA so unique. Listen to three motivating and informative free teleseminars by visiting http://www.mydswa.org/tele_class.asp

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Silicone Basics:

Silicone rubber is a unique synthetic elastomer made from a cross-linked polymer which is reinforced with silica. Its characteristics are such that it provides a balance of mechanical and chemical properties useful for bonding glass aquariums (not acrylic).
The basic formula is: Me3SiO(SiMe2O)nSiMe3

RTV Silicones are the silicones commonly used for glass construction and is often sold in Home Improvement and Pet Stores (or online)
RTV Silicones consist of polydialkylsiloxane with terminal hydroxyl groups (groups made up of an oxygen atom and a hydrogen atom connected by a covalent bond), which are reacted with organosilicon (chemical compounds containing carbon silicon bonds) cross-linking agents. This operation is carried out in a moisture-free environment and results in the formation of a tetrafunctional structure (A chemical structure that possesses four highly reactive sites). Curing takes place when materials are exposed to moisture. Atmospheric moisture is sufficient to trigger the reaction, and thickness should be limited if only one side is exposed to the moisture source. Curing is also relatively slow, reliant on moisture ingress into the polymer which produces Acetic Acid vapors.

Different formulas and (combined with temperature and outside humidity) will affect cure time. Dow Corning and GE have proprietary formulas that cure at an even slow rate as compared to some cheaper formulas, especially used in construction where this is not an important factor.

100% RTV Silicone Rubber Sealant produces a flexible, durable weather resistant seal between similar and dissimilar materials; RTV Silicone provides excellent adhesion to tile, glass, porcelain, ceramic, fiberglass, non-oily woods, plaster, painted surfaces, metal, many plastics, and rubber. It will withstand temperature extremes from -60°F. to +450°F. and is waterproof for freshwater or saltwater use.
You will note that plastic (which is made from oil) is not mentioned. RTV silicone is not useful for bonding acrylic aquariums and the oils within acrylic will eventually cause peeling away (lack of adhesion).

Aquarium Applications:

RTV Silicones are useful in the construction of glass aquariums and sealing the joints in DIY wooden aquariums. Silicone is NOT useful for acrylic aquariums as it will peel away over time due to the inherent oils in plastics.
Not all silicone formulas are the same, as stated earlier, Dow Corning and GE produce a RTV silicone that cures at an even and slow rate necessary for aquariums. Why is this important? Too fast a cure will not allow proper surface adhesion especially in important seams. It is also hard to work with in building aquariums and the person needs to work very quickly (usually too quickly) for proper aquarium construction.
Also you want to purchase pure 100% RTV Silicone as many (including ones produced by Dow Corning) have other ingredients for different applications such as fiberglass.

A good example of a silicone you do NOT want to purchase is Dow Corning Marine Sealant which I have actually seen recommended for aquariums! This product is great for fiberglass hulls of boats however it lacks the proper strength for aquariums due to added ingredients that allow for adhesion to plastic.

Summary:

Can you easily purchase the proper silicone at a Home Improvement Store? The answer is yes, just do not purchase anything other than 100% Pure Silicone (color does not matter) and I strongly recommend brand loyalty has there are good reasons behind GE and Dow Corning patents. To be safe, if you are unsure of the silicone you are buying, don not try and save a few bucks at the local hardware store when your local Pet Store or Aquarium Store have the correct product for maybe a few dollars more (unless an exploding aquarium in the middle of the night is your idea of excitement)

For the full article including pictures, please follow this link:
CORRECT AQUARIUM SILICONE APPLICATIONS (What Silicone to use and what not to use)

By Carl Strohmeyer

http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

I would like to comment on a published article bearing the same title as this post (refer to original article for article, URL available below).

The report on the new MRT line is stale news. The five-station Downtown Line Phase 1, originally known as Downtown Extension, was already announced by LTA about two years ago. It has simply just undergone a name transformation - just like the Marine Line that was renamed to Circle Line Stage 1.

The article seems to be conceived to pacify those who could be opposing more rail lines as they do not see the need of expensive rail lines, especially after the North-East Line experience.

As much as I like to concur with the author that having more rail lines will improve quality of life, I would like to pose some questions in response to the otherwise simplistic argument put forth.

Question 1:
Given that “financial viability of the new lines might be an issue”, would the Government be able to invite operators to operate the new lines?

Both local operators, SMRT and SBS Transit, are public-listed companies. If the revenue of the new lines are unable to cover operating costs, it is unlikely that the operators are willing to run the new lines at a loss unless compensated duly. If that is the case, is the Government prepared to “subsidise” their operations?

I could think of a number of ways that the Government can overcome this. One is to convince the operators’ management to accept lower profit margin. This may be achieved by trying to get them to at the overall profit margin of all the lines that they are rather than looking at the profitability of a single line. However, this might not be feasible as the public-listed operators will find it difficult to answer to their shareholders. Another possible move is to allow the operators to recoup any losses by allowing them to have greater non-fare revenue. Such could be in the form of more aggressive marketing initiatives in train stations, or more commercial spaces for rent.

Question 2:
The expanding rail network will reduce the distance travelled, especially for the upcoming Circle Line. Since our current train fare is distance-based (the longer you travel, the more you pay), having more rail lines will most likely reduce the fare because of the corresponding reduction in distance travelled. Is it fair to the operators that while they incur more costs to run the new lines and offer better service in terms of reduced journey time to the public, they are getting lesser revenue due to distant-based fare structure?

Since the author has called for more rail lines because it improves “quality of life”, are passengers also willing to accept a similar argument for fares: that a portion of the fare can be pegged to “quality of ride” based on the amount of time savings they experience with the new lines? Not to forget that our train fair is one of the most affordable in the world!

Question 3:
Are we prepared for more bus rationalisation?

The new rail lines will not be sustainable without extensive bus rationalisation to remove duplicating bus routes. However, recent public sentiments have shown that there are a number who prefer the convenience of having direct door-step bus services over the need to make bus/MRT transfer trips. This is especially true for the Woodlands and North-Eastern residents who have experienced the MRT extension to Woodlands and the new North-East Line.

However, extending the rail network without rationalising the bus services will result in less than ideal utilisation of the huge investments poured into constructing the new MRT lines. I do understand that the Ministry is trying to give more choices to the people, but is it at the expense of building an expensive system that might not fully reaped its benefits? While the focus is providing a customer-centric travel experience, let us not forget the big picture amidst the myriad dissenting views.

Question 4:
Is MRT the only option to meet the transportation needs of Singaporeans?

How about other modes of transport, such as the Bus Rapid Transit system that could meet the transportation needs at much lower cost?

As the article has pointed out, the cost of MRT extension comes from taxpayers’ money. As such, it would be dangerous to expand the rail network using the “quality of life” argument without having the cost-benefit analysis done proper. In any case, the argument of “having more rail lines is a necessity” seems dejà vu. Remember the great MRT rebate back in 1970s, on whether there is a need to built MRT line at all because of the huge financial cost?

Given the huge amount of taxpayers’ money (Christopher Tan from Straits Times estimated that Downtown Line would cost $10 billion), I would urge the relevant authorities to be more transparent in answering this question.

You are welcome to post any comments and share any views that you may have in my blog.

Source:

Singapore’s Land Transport: Happenings in Singapore’s land transport landscape

http://sgtransport.blogspot.com/

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

If you have no definite plan, the amount of your paycheck becomes your spending budget limit. It is the only limit that has been imposed on your spending habits.

You need to start tracking your expenses. Try this free personal Budget Planner.

Being dependent on your paycheck to provide for your expenses instead of depending on a detailed plan will eventually lead a person into confrontation with his or her own financial problems.

Most people focus their energy on the wrong goals. They focus on a paycheck, a pay raise, a promotion, and saving for their retirement, but they never focus any time on improving their plan or acquiring assets.

A lot of people I meet have no plan at all. This is what I call planning to be poor. If your plan is to work for the rest of your life saving along the way until the day you retire and live with in your shrinking budget you must admit you are planning to be poor.

Unfortunately, money is designed to decrease in value over time. So unless you unlock your moneys true potential you will never have your money working for you. You will always be working for money. This touches the surface of savings vs investing.

The system we live in is designed to keep you dependent, needy, and poor. There will always be a need for people to work for an earned income but not you. By not following a plan, you are planning to be poor.

You planning should start with learning. It is not the investment that makes you the money it is all the time and preparation. This time invested not only makes you the profit but allows you to repeat the process.

In order to become wealthy, you need to change your mind about a few common knowledge ideas. Let me interrogate you for a minute.

Do you work at a secure job? Do you spend most of your time at a job? Do you think a raise will solve some of your money problems? Do you depend on your paycheck to cover your expenses?

Do you rely on company benefits? Do you believe in seniority? Will your income be less when you retire? Are you saving for retirement? Do you feel investing is risky?

If you are anything like I was you answered yes to almost all of these questions. This tells me a few key things about your financial situation.

The first thing is your cash flow pattern is poor or middle class. You probably consider your house and car assets and your retirement plan if you have one, is to have your broker figure it out…

Financial literacy starts with learning the difference between an asset and liability. In general if it has monthly payments that have to be met and it makes you no income then it is an asset.

After reviewing this information, take another look at your own position and determine if you are planning on being poor. Visit our financial planning page to determine your best course of action for your current situation.
http://www.cleveland-real-estate-debt-help.com/debt-help.xml

Hello my name is Robert but you can call me Bob, a year ago I made a decision that I would not be a slave to money. This is what I learned.

Free - Debt Help RSS feed- no sales junk only helpful content to guide you on your journey to financial independence.

http://www.cleveland-real-estate-debt-help.com/debt-help.xml

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

We all prefer to purchase new when it comes to, well, just about everything. Unfortunately, though, the luxury of buying a brand new item is something that we are simply not afforded at all times. There are a variety of reasons why, in some instances, we are resigned to purchase “used” rather than new; money and accessibility being the most obvious points. However, there can be a positive avenue to this, which is, of course, the ability to save money by purchasing a less than new product. And, the benefits of purchasing “refurbished” items are no more prevalent than they are in the field of refurbished electronics.

It is important to note, right off the bat, which refurbished - when it comes to electronic goods - does not mean used, old or previously enjoyed. As a matter of fact, the definition of what constitutes a refurbished electronic item has a variety of meanings. A refurbished electronic item can be, for example:

–An overstock item that is no longer being produced by the manufacturer

–An item whose packaging has been damaged during transport, even though the item itself has not been affected at all and remains in perfect working condition

–A product that has only featured in a store for display purposes only

–Items that have cosmetic defects (i.e. incorrect color scheme) only, with no issues with quality

When it comes to refurbished electronic goods, such as an iPod, Xbox, Playstation or camcorder, anything that isn’t “new” is considered refurbished, and must be sold as such. Because of this, the shopper can easily save hundreds of dollars when purchasing a refurbished item versus buying a new item. In many cases, the refurbished electronic item in question is in just as good of working condition as a brand new electronic item. But, because of certain circumstances, that item is no longer identified as new.

Before some of you thumb your nose at the thought of purchasing a refurbished item, consider this scenario: you are purchasing a used Xbox 360 from a friend of yours. There are stains on the console, you’re getting the item in a plastic bag, and your friend has a reputation of not being so delicate with his belongings.

Would you purchase that Xbox 360, or one that has never been used or opened, but one whose box has a tear in it because it caught on someone’s watch during handling? Or would you purchase your friend’s coffee stained version over one whose box was opened because someone simply wanted to see what was inside, and that’s all?

And another caveat for purchasing refurbished; while your friend is a stand-up person, he probably won’t offer you a manufacturer warranty on the game. Most refurbished electronics still have their warranties intact, so, as a consumer, you are protected.

More and more people, companies and retailers are capitalizing on the value of refurbished electronics. For manufacturers and retailers, it’s a great way of moving out excess stock and items. And for consumers, refurbished electronics are a fantastic way of getting a high-quality item at an exceptionally low cost.

As with any purchase, due diligence and research is paramount to locating a respectable retailer who can give you the best deal possible when it comes to refurbished electronics. It is no different than, say, purchasing a used car or a pre-owned home. You would never think buying a used car or home is a bad idea, and you would never do it blindly either. The same principle applies to purchasing refurbished electronics. A good idea, when, combined with research, can prove to be a great benefit to the consumer.

With video game consoles becoming more and more expensive, and with more competition to choose from, there needs to be an outlet for people to get what they want without having to exceed their financial considerations. Everyone wants the hottest video game system, MP3 player or video camera out there, but not everyone can afford to purchase them either. For those who can’t, there is an option, and that is to purchase a refurbished version of the product. Again, in many cases refurbished does not mean opened, used, enjoyed, repaired or rebuilt. It just means that the item can not - by law - be defined and sold as a brand new product.

It also means that savvy customers, who don’t mind paying a little less, will end up with an exceptional electronic item at an exceptionally low cost.

Refurbished Electronics

Xbox 360

iPod Nano

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Men are often afraid to approach and engage women in conversation due to a fear of failure. A lot of guys think they’ll be mocked by women or ridiculed in some way. By letting fear control their actions, these men are missing out on many opportunities to talk to attractive women.

While you might fear failure and rejection, you can’t let it control your actions. In fact, failure is a good thing. Let me explain…

One of the best things I’ve heard about rejection is comparing it to baseball. In this sport a guy is considered a Hall of Fame Player if he can consistently get a hit 3 or 4 times out of 10,. The point behind this philosophy is you’re going to fail when you’re talking to women. Even the guys with the best approach techniques encounter situations where a girl won’t be interested in them.

However it’s important to remember that everyone fails and you can learn from each experience. So next you “strike out” or fail with a woman, think about the interaction. Ask yourself:

- Did I talk to fast/slow/loud?

- Was she available or does she have a boyfriend?

- Did I successfully create a dynamic conversation?

- Was I funny, charming and confident?

By evaluating your *performance*, you can learn from your mistakes and apply them the next time you talk to a woman. Just remember to not get down on yourself for failing. Know that failure is part of the game and it happens to everyone.

In a way you’re acting like a baseball player where you continue to take swings till you can hit that home run!

So keep on swinging…

Want to learn 50 different ways to meet, approach and attract women If so, take a look at Scott Patterson’s Free eBook which provides 50 tips for approaching, attracting, and dating ANY woman.

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

This sacred and joyous holiday for Christians throughout the world celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his death by crucifixion. For many Christians, especially those of Eastern and Orthodox faith, Easter is the most important holiday of the year, even over Christmas.

So before I give you the best tips and recipes for your perfect Easter brunch I wanted to share the history of the Easter bunny and where the idea of decorating Easter eggs came from.

It has been said that the colored eggs we decorate and hide in our Easter egg hunts came from Germany. Since the rabbits (a.k.a Easter bunny) and eggs were symbols of immortality, fertility and new life, the Germans used to leave the colored eggs in children’s baskets. This custom was brought to America in the late 19th century by German immigrants.

Here are some great Easter decorating tips to get you started:

1. When you looking for Easter decorations keep in mind light pastel colors. These peaceful colors will set the mood for your party.

2. Decorate your home with pastel balloons, streamers and plastic eggs.

3. Don’t forget to put out some Easter candy either in baskets or pastel color bowls for your company to snack on.

4. Make sure you tableware match in pastels.

5. Try to find some daffodils or tulips and use these as table decorations. Either tie a pastel-colored ribbon around each flower and place them on each guests plate or pot them and place down the center of each table.

6. For place cards, hard boil a bunch of eggs and decorate each one differently. Once the eggs are dry, use a permanent maker and carefully write each of your guests on a separate egg. That way you can place each egg inside a small basket and set on each plate to let your guests know where they are sitting.

Your Perfect Easter Brunch:

Traditional Easter meals can either have ham or lamb as a main dish. These days, many families favor the salty sweetness of ham. Most ham dishes served on this holiday are honey glazed with sides of candied yams, glazed veggies and potatoes.

Below I have found some great recipes that are easy to follow and absolutely perfect for your Easter brunch. And don’t worry, if you are one of those families who prefer lamb over ham I have found some delicious recipes for you as well.

Let’s start off with the main course:
Easter Ham

Ingredients

1-7 to 8 lb. fully cooked smoked ham shank
1 C. maple syrup
2 Tbs. cider vinegar
1 Tbs. prepared mustard
whole cloves

Directions

Combine syrup, vinegar and mustard. Place ham, fat side up, on rack in shallow roasting pan. Pour about 1/2 C. mixture over ham and bake, uncovered, in a preheated 325 degree oven for 1-1/2 hours. Baste every 30 minutes with additional sauce. Remove ham from oven and score fat into diamond shapes. Insert a clove into each diamond. Bake ham an additional 30 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of meat registers 140 degrees. Let ham rest 15 minutes before carving.

Check out Recipe4Living.com for more ideas on Ham recipes for your Easter brunch. Just click on Holiday’s on the left column and click on Easter.

Now for a Lamb Recipe:
Honey Glazed Lamb

Ingredients

1 C. Honey

1/2 C. Dry white wine

4 Tbs. Minced fresh mint

Salt and pepper, to taste

8 lbs. Boneless leg of lamb, (2 whole legs)

Directions

Combine honey, wine and mint; mix well. Season cut side of boned lamb with salt and pepper, then spread with honey mixture; roll and tie lamb. Brush outer surface with honey mixture. Roast on rack in shallow baking pan at 325 degrees F 1 to 1-1/2 hours or to 160 degrees F on meat thermometer for medium doneness. Baste every 15 minutes. Let stand 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.

Check out www.Recipe4Living.com for more ideas on Lamb recipes for your Easter brunch. Just click on Holiday’s on the left column and click on Easter.

Side dishes are a must and just as important as the main course.

Side Potatoes Dishes
Oven Roast Greek Potatoes

Ingredients

4-5 Medium Potatoes; Cubed

1 Tbs. Olive Oil

1 Tbs. Butter; Melted

1-2 Tbs. All Purpose Greek Seasoning

Dash Garlic Seasoning

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toss potatoes with remaining ingredients. Bake in 9×13″ casserole dish for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden.
Yield: 4 servings

Sides Asparagus Dishes
Oven Roasted Potatoes and Asparagus

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb. red potatoes cut into chunks

2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil

8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

4 tsp. dried rosemary

4 tsp. dried thyme

2 tsp. kosher salt

1 bunch fresh asparagus trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a large baking dish, toss the red potatoes with 1/2 the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and 1/2 the kosher salt. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake 20 minutes in the preheated oven. Mix in the asparagus, remaining olive oil, and remaining salt. Cover, and continue cooking 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Increase oven temperature to 450 degrees. Remove foil, and continue cooking 5 to 10 minutes, until potatoes are lightly browned. Season with pepper to serve.

Yield: 6 Servings.

Side Glazed Carrot Dishes
Glazed Carrots

Ingredients

6 C. carrots cut into 1″ diagonal slices

1/4 C. brown sugar

1/2 tsp. nutmeg

1/4 C. orange juice

1/4 C. butter

1 tsp. cornstarch

1/2 tsp. salt

Directions

Cook carrots on stovetop in a small amount of salted water until tender, drain water. Combine orange juice, nutmeg, brown sugar, cornstarch, and mix until smooth. Pour over carrots and cook for several minutes until mixture thickens. Add butter and toss. Serve hot.

Bread/Rolls
Greek Easter Bread

Ingredients

1 pkg. Dry yeast

1/2 C. Warm water

1/2 C. Boiling water

1 tsp. Cinnamon

3/4 C. Sugar

3 Eggs

1/4 C. Butter; melted

1/2 C. Warm milk

1 tsp. Baking powder

1/2 tsp. Salt

5 C. Flour (all-purpose)

1 Egg yolk; beaten

Sesame seeds

5 Eggs; hard-cooked; unshelled -and dyed red

Directions

Soften yeast in warm water and set aside. Combine boiling water and cinnamon; set aside. Combine sugar and eggs; beat well. Add melted butter to egg mixture and beat again. Skim off 1/4 C. clear cinnamon water and add along with yeast and milk to egg mixture, blending well. Combine dry ingredients and add to batter; knead dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Shape dough to fit into 2 greased 8 in. round pans; crisscross 2 strips of dough over each loaf. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk. Brush loaves with beaten egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until brown. Push dyed eggs into bread immediately when loaves are removed from oven.

Now for the best part of the whole meal….Dessert. Have fun and create an eye popping dessert that your whole family will enjoy. Here are some different options to choose from.

Easter Angel Cake
Ingredients

1 pkg. white angel food cake mix

8 oz. frozen whipped cream topping, thawed

1 C. flaked coconut

6 drops green food color

Jelly beans

Directions

Bake and cool cake as directed on package, remove from pan. Frost with whipped topping. Combine coconut and food color until evenly tinted. Sprinkle over top of cake. Arrange jelly beans on coconut. After serving, refrigerate any remaining cake.

For more Easter side dish recipes and desserts visit www.Recipe4Living.com.

Have a wonderful Easter Holiday and keep your eyes open for the Easter bunny. You never know what he might leave you this year.

© 2007 Ampere Media LLC, All Rights Reserved Recipe4Living.com features more than 11,000 user submitted recipes, ideas and recipes from Wolfgang Puck, reference guides, healthy living advice, tips for kids, and much more. All of the recipes mentioned in this article can be found at http://www.recipe4living.com

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Crime rates are on the rise throughout the nation. The threat of terrorism continues to be an unprecedented national concern. The citizens of this country need the protection provided by those in security and protective services positions.

Become Part of a Highly Regarded Team in Our Society
Earning your degree or advancing your credentials in security and protective services allows you to become part of this well-respected team standing guard, protecting those who can’t protect themselves. It’s a well-respected field that can provide rewarding benefits for those interested in such an important line of work.

The Importance of Security and Protective Services
All you have to do is watch the news to know how important the professional in the security and protective services fields are to our everyday lives. They protect us from criminals, respond to public emergencies, and help us to recover from natural disasters.

Policemen, firemen, night watchmen, and other highly trained individuals make up the team of security and protective services. It takes a special breed to put your life on the line everyday for the good of society. Perhaps you have that drive in you as well.

A Wide Array of Specialized Opportunities Exist in the Field
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of security and protective services personnel is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2014. Perhaps the best part about this field is that you can enter a division of security and protective services that best matches your abilities and interests. The field is literally wide open.

Opportunities exist for well-qualified professionals in areas such as:

criminal justice

homeland security

risk management

administration positions

Preferred Credentials for Protective Services Positions
Entry points into the fields of security and protective services vary widely.

Online degrees in protective services provide you with focused training and education in your particular field of interest.

Degree programs are available from accredited online colleges that will allow you to choose a program that best fits your individual personal and professional goals.

Flexible Online Opportunities in Security and Protective Services
With online programs, you can earn an associate, bachelor, or master’s degree from the accredited college of your choice. If you are currently in the field and would like to pursue certification in different areas to boost the knowledge and skills that can help you advance your career, these are available as well.

The flexibility provided through online learning allows you to continue to meet your responsibilities every day while continuing your education.

Nancy Lambert is an executive for Accredited-Online-Colleges.com Accredited-Online-Colleges.com provides information on hundreds of degrees offered online through accredited colleges and universities. From online certificates to Associates, Bachelors, Masters and PhD degrees, Accredited-Online-Colleges.com helps students and adults discover the advantages of earning their online degree in protective services.

When space and clutter become an issue, particularly outside in the yard and garden areas, many people think of building their own outdoor storage sheds. After all, they seem quite simple structures to create, right? And yes they can be. But whether you should build a shed or buy one depends on a variety of factors.

If you are fairly handy with tools and you don’t mind doing all the cutting, measuring, drilling and hammering, you might consider simply buying materials and building an outdoor shed of your own from scratch. In most cases, a simple wooden frame with some type of roof and walls will do the trick.

If you’re good at design and building things by hand, you might even end up building something completely unique as a storage shed. And this can create an amazing feeling of accomplishment and pride. If however, you’re not overly good at designing your own structures, or even if you’re just not sure about the finer details that go into building an outdoor shed, you may end up with a final result that’s less than pleasing. And in some cases, you might even end up with a home made outdoor storage shed that’s a safety hazard too.

A better way to make sure you’re building something well, even if it is built from scratch, is to buy an outdoor shed plan first. Buying an outdoor shed design plan will allow you to choose from a variety of beautiful, sturdy, useful shed designs that will compliment your home, yard and garden. You’re still able to build the shed completely on your own of course, you’ll just have useable plans to work from. This will ensure you’ll end up with something that looks nice, and is safe to use too.

Now a nice alternative to building a shed of your own from scratch is to order an outdoor shed kit. Outdoor shed kits come with all the pieces you need to build your shed - including screws and other hardware - plus they have step by step assembly instructions that make building the shed fairly easy to do.

Building a shed from a kit tends to give you even more design options too. You could build a cottage or bungalow style outdoor shed completely from scratch, but the work involved is much more detailed, and you might have to wait for specialty parts to be ordered. By building your shed from a ready made kit instead, all of the various pieces, trim and accessories you want to build on to the shed are sent at once. This allows you to build the shed without having to worry about stopping and waiting for other pieces to come in, or having to go back to your tools and recut something that was done wrong the first time.

Build your own shed kits can be purchased in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials too. You can choose quaint little cottage style wooden shed kits, vinyl kits which look like small barns, or metal kids which are attractive but look like regular storage sheds. The options for building a shed yourself are wide open, so think about what tools and skills you have first, then decide whether building one from scratch, with a pre-made design, or from a kit is the best choice for you.

Be sure to visit http://www.outdoorsstoragesheds.com/ and check out some of the excellent and easy build your own outdoor shed kits we have available too!

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

Warning: fsockopen() [function.fsockopen]: unable to connect to surl.cn:80 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known) in /wwwroot/gphone-android.com/wp-includes/class-snoopy.php on line 1142

This is the 12th of 30 articles that will provide an analysis for every major league baseball team’s projected OV/UN regular season wins total for the 2007 season. I will have a recommendation for each club with two levels of ranking. 1-star choices will be leans but not official play recommendations. 2-star rankings will be my strongest selections that I would recommend placing a wager on.

Houston Astros-OV/UN Regular Season Wins Total: 78 1/2 (Various Sportsbooks)

Last 3 seasons wins totals

2006-82

2005-89

2004-92

3-year average: 88

Lineup-Free agent Carlos Lee brings his power bat to the Astros lineup in 2007. Here’s a look:

C-Brad Ausmus(37): Ausmus has never been known for his bat. He does an excellent job handling the pitching staff.

1B-Lance Berkman(31): Berkman is one of the most-underrated hitters in the game. He delivered a monster campaign (45 HR’s, 136 RBI’s) in 2006 without much support. Berkman will benefit from the presence of Carlos Lee in 2007.

2B-Craig Biggio(41): Biggio was still productive at age 40. He only needs 70 hits in 2007 to reach the 3000 mark. Biggio did hit a career-low .246 last season but he did manage to hit 21 HR’s.

SS-Adam Everett(30): Like Ausmus, Everett doesn’t provide much with the bat. The Astros are hoping that he can improve on last season’s career-high of 59 RBI’s.

3B-Morgan Ensberg(31): After a breakout season in 2005 (36 HR’s, 101 RBI’s), Ensberg regressed in 2006. After hitting 17 homers in the first two months of the season, Ensberg could only manage 6 more HR the rest of the season. He only had 58 RBI’s for the season. His slump was probably the main factor that kept Houston out of the playoffs last season. The pressure will be lessened with Lee joining the middle of this lineup.

LF-Carlos Lee(30): Lee delivered career-highs in homers and RBI’s last season while playing in Milwaukee and Texas. The combination of a short porch in left at Houston along with Berkman hitting next to him should enable Lee to have a 40 + HR campaign with the Astros.

CF-Chris Burke(27): The converted infielder will be counted on for defense more than offense in 2007.

RF-Jason Lane(30): Lane mirrored Ensberg’s off season in 2006. After providing 28 HR’s in 2005, Lane had a dreadful 2006 with a .201 average and only 15 HR’s. Left-handed bat Luke Scott will get some at-bats in the outfield after hitting .336 in 65 games last season.

Overall lineup outlook(7 right-handed batters and 1 switch-hitter): Houston’s inability to produce consistent offense in 2006 (12th in NL in runs scored) kept them out of the post-season. Lee’s addition will give the Astros the top power tandem in the league as he joins with Berkman in the middle of the Houston order. However, the rest of the lineup is pretty mediocre. Ausmus, Everett, and Burke don’t hit for average or power. Biggio is no longer a threat to hit .300 at this stage of his career. Will Ensberg and Lane rebound to their form of 2005 or will they struggle again in 2007? Scott could be a sleeper in this lineup as a left-handed bat in a lineup that is over loaded with right-handed hitters. The Astros will be better with Lee in the mix but the improvement will likely be relatively small with the other question marks in the order.

Starting rotation-The Houston rotation has a vastly different look heading into 2007.

RHP-Roy Oswalt(29): A lack of run support was the only thing that kept Oswalt from a 3rd straight 20-win season in 2006. His 2.98 E.R.A. in 2006 marked the fourth time in six seasons that he has posted an E.R.A. of under three.

RHP-Jason Jennings(28): The Texas native will be counted on after coming over for the Rockies for CF Wily Tavares and two of Houston’s top pitching prospects. Jennings will have to make the adjustment to Houston’s ballpark after navigating his way around Coors Field. He doesn’t have overpowering stuff but his ability to post a winning record in his tenure in Colorado is an indication of his craftiness.

RHP-Woody Williams(40): Williams pitched much better in his 30’s than he did in his 20’s. In this decade, Williams has won over 60% of his decisions with a solid record of 84-55. He will be pitching in his hometown in 2007. Williams isn’t able to go deep into most games but he will give the Astros 5-6 quality innings in the majority of his outings.

LHP-Wandy Rodriguez(28): Rodriguez has been over matched in two big league campaigns with an E.R.A. of 5.58. He will need to get off to a respectable start in April and May to keep a spot in the rotation.

RHP-Ezequiel Astacio(27): Like Rodriguez, he hasn’t been able to retire big league hitters in his brief major league career. Astacio only pitched seven big league innings last season after making 14 starts in 2005. He allowed a whopping 23 HR’s in just 81 innings of pitching in 2005. Astacio will be on a short leash in 2007.

Overall rotation outlook: The Astros were caught by surprise when Andy Pettitte decided to head back to the Yankees. For the 2nd year in a row, Roger Clemens has left the club in limbo heading into spring training. If he does decide to pitch in mid-season, it might be for the Yankees or Red Sox instead of the Astros. Brandon Backe won’t be available until about September after suffering a serious injury in May of last season. The good news is that Houston has a dominant number one with Oswalt. Jennings and Williams are capable but are certainly a notch or two below Clemens and Pettitte. The 4th and 5th spots are obviously huge concerns. This staff will not be a top 5 NL rotation. The Astros will likely be in the 10-12 range of NL starting staffs in 2007.

Bullpen-The Astros are very solid in setup relief but closer Brad Lidge is a concern.

Setup relief-RHP Dan Wheeler(29) delivered another solid campaign in 2006 with a 2.52 E.R.A. He had nine saves in a closing stint for the slumping Lidge. RHP Chad Qualls(28) is also an effective veteran middle reliever in the Astros pen. LHP Trevor Miller(33) supports the right-handers as a top flight lefty specialist for Houston. RHP Chris Sampson(28) and RHP Fernando Nieve(24) are in the mix for some middle relief work as well as some potential opportunities as 4th or 5th starters.

Closer-RHP Brad Lidge(30): Lidge appeared to lose some confidence after allowing a couple of dramatic home runs in the 2005 post-season. His E.R.A. increased by three full runs from 2.29 in 2005 to 5.28 last season. He still has overpowering stuff (104 K’s in 75 IP last season). However, he was victimized by 10 homers and some wildness. Without a big year from Lidge, the Astros will have a difficult time being more than a .500 team in 2007.

Overall pitching outlook: The Astros won’t be able to match last season’s number two NL ranking in E.R.A. in 2007. This staff will probably sneak into the top half of NL E.R.A. rankings in 2007. The bullpen is very good and it could be outstanding if Lidge can return to his prior form. The 4th and 5th spots will likely be problem areas throughout the season unless Clemens returns to provide depth to the rotation. Houston will be a middle of the road NL pitching staff in 2007.

Final recap and recommendation: The Houston organization is very sound. The Astros have had only 1 losing season in the last 14 years. There is a winning environment in play for this club. Houston’s woeful offense from a year ago has clearly been improved with the addition of Lee to the middle of the lineup. The pitching staff has slipped but it is still respectable. While expectations aren’t high, this team shouldn’t be counted out. If the young pitchers are able to produce at the back end of the rotation, this squad could be in the middle of the playoff chase. Houston will probably fall short of playoff contention in 2007 but the nucleus of this team is still solid enough to win at least 80 games.

OVER 78 1/2 WINS: * 1-Star

David Jones is a professional sports handicapper whose expert picks and analysis are available exclusively at http://www.sportsmemo.com