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The Beginner's Mail Order Business Guide

2007-05-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

No claim is made that the steps outlined would be successful for someone else. Each individual should obtain whatever professional advice may be
necessary for his particular operation.

INTRODUCTION

The following is designed to provide a check list for new entrants into the mail order field. Each mail order business is different, but there are common elements that apply to most mail order businesses, as well as some specific characteristics that may vary from business to business. The following suggestions were developed to assist you in avoiding costly mistakes. Apply the various points as they relate to your specific business.

COMPANY NAME

* Select a short, easily remembered name.
* Unless you are using your own name, it is required in most jurisdictions that a trade name is either registered with the county or the state.
* Before you spend money for printing material, make sure that the name you choose is not already registered to another company. You can usually conduct a name search with an office of the appropriate jurisdiction by telephone.
* You may consider using a name that describes your product.

COMPANY ADDRESS

* Most newly established mail order businesses will operate out of their home until the volume of the business requires larger space.
* Most mail order businesses prefer not to use their home address as their company address. If you do, you will advertise your home address in regional and national publications. You have two other choices, a Post Office Box(POB) or a postal box located in a commercial enterprise which rents out mail boxes.
* A POB is generally the least expensive, both to rent and for advertising purposes. (See below) Some mail order operators claim that it reduces business because people do not trust a POB address. Yet there are just as many mail order operators who disprove this notion. The decision is yours.
* If you rent a mail box in a commercial enterprise, your box number usually becomes a suite number in the address.
* Almost all publications will charge you a full word charge for each component of your address, except the Zip Code and State which is counted as one word, Example:
Information Books, 300 Main Street, Suite 611, Centerville,
Md 20910 Or:
Information Books, Box 1000, Centerville, Md 20910.

* The first address is counted as 9 words, the second one as 6 words. Since advertising costs anywhere from 50 cents to $10.00 per word (classified advertising) you could save a substantial amount of money at the end of the year if you use a post office box.

TELEPHONE

* Some mail order companies do not show their phone numbers on their stationery, others do. It gives the customer some comfort to see a telephone number, although he may never use it.
* You can show your residence phone number in the appropriate printed material, or you can obtain a business listing for your home.
* The residence phone is fine, for starters, if it is answered in a professional manner at all times.
* If you plan to sell higher priced ticket items, however,
(over $15.00) a business listing would be advantageous since a prospective customer may pick up the phone and check with the information operator whether "Company X" is listed.

BASIC SUPPLIES

* Be conservative and frugal in your acquisition of items that you feel are needed. It's always wise to start small, and as inexpensively as possible, and as you build profits, you can
buy more and better items.
* The basics are a good quality computer, Business stationery, business envelopes (#10's), and return envelopes, either #6 or #9 is fine. All items should have your business name and address
imprinted on them.
* You will also need some mailing labels and some miscellaneous office supplies.

PRODUCT

* If possible, choose a product or products that people need
on an ongoing basis.
* Be sure the product is of acceptable quality. Know the
product before you sell it.
* If feasible, choose an item that is not widely available
from retailers.
* Develop a line of merchandise. It is rarely possible to make money with just one or two items. The availability of a line of related products is paramount to mail order success.
* The more specialized your products are, the easier your marketing becomes.
* If you are selling books, for example, it would be impossible, except for a very large company, to sell all types of books. You may decide to specialize in books pertaining to sports, and may want to go even further by zeroing in on football or baseball.

SUPPLIERS

* Your suppliers should provide you with reliable, quality,
and reasonable pricing.
* Since you probably should provide some type of a money back
guarantee (30 days is standard) you should expect the same guarantee from your suppliers.
* When buying from out of town suppliers, be sure to include the shipping charge in comparing prices to local suppliers.

DROP-SHIPMENTS

* Under a drop-ship agreement which is available from many suppliers for a variety of products, the supplier ships your customers' orders directly under your shipping label.
(Suggested reading: "American-Drop-Shippers Directory".)
* It is customary that the supplier guarantees not to include any of his promotional materials with the shipment; or to use your customer's name for any future mailings.
* Drop-shipping arrangements are suitable for people just getting started. It allows you not to have to carry a costly inventory.
* As your business increases and you develop a sense of what sells well, you can stock limited supplies of certain fast selling items, and continue utilizing drop-shipments for slower products. Eventually, as your business flourishes, you can carry an inventory of everything you sell.
* Handling your own shipments is advantageous for the following reasons: It cuts down on your shipping expenses, it decreases the shipping time, and it allows you to include promotional material directly with the shipment.
* When you do utilize drop-shipments, be sure to send your customer a note that his order is being processed and he can expect it by, or around a certain date.
* It is unnecessary to make your customer aware of the fact that the item is being drop-shipped. Include some promotional material with your letter or note.

PRICING

* Buy at a price that allows you an adequate mark-up. In setting your prices, allow for all costs:
* Cost of product, shipping cost and postage, bank charges including credit card charges, wrapping, bad debts, rejects, refunds, etc. In addition, the other normal overhead costs need to be considered,. Lastly, there is the substantial marketing cost for advertising, and for printing of
promotional items. (See following paragraphs)
* Your prices of course, have to be fair and in line with your competition.
* It is not necessary that you make a big profit on each and every item. the real profit in mail order comes from follow-up orders.
* THE 3 BIGGEST EXPENSE CATEGORIES IN MAIL ORDER ARE:
ADVERTISING, PRINTING COST, AND POSTAGE. Over 80% of your total expenses are in this area. Watch these expenses very carefully.

ADVERTISING EXPENSE

* Start with classified ads. As you test them and know what
is successful, you can switch to display ads.
* To test an offering and a specific ad, run it once in a specific publication and you should get a reading that could be very positive or very negative. It might also be inconclusive. If that is the case, simply run it again.
* It is best to test an ad by running it in different publications.
* Advertise in publications that advertise similar products.
* If you have a sure seller, buy larger space.
* Special interest products should be advertised in special interest publications.
* Keep on changing the ad and offering until you are satisfied
it is right.
* Examples of changes you can make are: size of ad, copy,appeal, special gimmicks such as discounts, free gifts or reports, etc.
* Remember that a given ad can be 20 or 30 times more successful than another ad advertising the same product. It pays, therefore, to continue testing until it is just right.
* Repeat a successful ad until you no longer get a satisfactory return.
* The conventional advertising cost is 15% of sales or more in
mail order.
* To evaluate your advertising cost, think in terms of cost per inquiry. This is calculated by dividing the number of inquiries into the cost of the ad. that cost may vary from about $$0.80 to $2.00 or more.
* Be careful when you allocate advertising funds to small mail order publications. The ad may appear to be very inexpensive. However, a $15.00 ad that gets no response is a lot more expensive than a $150.00 ad that gets over 100 inquiries.
* Stay away from those publications that have no news or editorial content, and also those that have poor printing quality.
* There are a number of quality mail order publications, but it takes time to find the right publication for your product.

ADVERTISING COPY

* Write tight copy.
* Write as you speak. You are generally appealing to a mass market.
* Prepare your copy carefully. It must fit your specific medium.
* The emphasis should be on YOU rather than I, the company.
* Be sincere and don't make unreasonable claims, but remember that you are selling.
* Try to convince the reader that you are reliable and
trustworthy.
* Give simple specific instruction.
* Key all ads to test their effectiveness.
* Check and double check, and have someone else check your ad to make sure everything is correct and easy to understand.
* Watch where your competitors are advertising.
* Experiment with new publications.
* It is generally considered impossible to sell something that costs more than $2.00 - $3.00 direct from either a classified ad or a small display ad. This is because there just is not enough space to convince someone to part with $10.00 or $20.00, for example. It takes a full page ad to do that.
* If you use an agency, use one that specializes in mail order, even if it is located out of town.

RESPONDING TO INQUIRIES

* Each inquiry you receive in response to an ad should be answered via First Class, if at all possible, within 24 hours.
* The contents of the envelope going to the prospective customer should contain: a circular, promotional flier, or mini-brochure, a sales letter, an order form (the order form can be part of the circular), a return envelope, and other appropriate information, such as a fact sheet, a free report, etc.
* In general, circulars should be limited to one 8 1/2 x 11 page.
* A sales letter, on the other hand, can be as long as it takes to say everything you need to say to a prospective customer in order to sell him the product.
* Sales letters should have an attention getting opening. The idea of the opening is to get him to read the rest of the letter.

POSTAGE AND SHIPPING COST

* Answer inquiries to your advertising immediately and via First Class Mail. Use Bulk Mail for future mailings.
* You can save a great deal of money by getting a Bulk Mail permit. Mail must be sorted by zip code. Get more specific information from your Post

Office.
* Keep your mailing lists clean - updated.
* Utilize all of the various mail classes, such as Printed Mail and Book rate.
* Compare costs of shippers other than the Post Office.
* Guarantee return postage.
* Watch your shipping weight. A fraction of an ounce can make a big difference in a large mailing.

PRINTING COST

* Very large printers will not be interested in your business. Very small ones, quick printers and instant printers although convenient, are generally too expensive. Their equipment is not large enough to be competitive.
* There are many medium sized printers that will give you good pricing and quality printing. Often they have the capability to help you with layout and design.
* Don't hesitate to use out of town printers. If you live in a high cost-of -living area, you can probably save a substantial amount of money. Many of these printers advertise in mail order publications.
* Utilize the promotional material available from your supplier.
* Until you know what sells, print small quantities, even if it is more expensive.
* Use colored paper for your promotional flyers to spice up your offer. Use white paper, blue or black ink for everything else.

CUSTOMER PAYMENTS, REFUNDS AND COMPLAINTS

* Accept money orders and checks.
* Some mail order companies state in their material that they will not ship for 10 days to 2 weeks when payment is made with an out of town check. This may be an unwise practice because, it can create ill feelings with your customers. NSF checks are rare.
* An increasing number of mail order companies accept credit cards - Visa and MasterCard - for payment. It is generally felt that it does increase sales.
* If you cannot obtain a credit card merchant agreement with your bank work through a credit card clearing house. A number of these companies advertise in mail order publications. Since these companies generally charge between 6-9%, it may be wise to set a minimum amount such as $15.00 for credit card orders.
* Remember, "the customer" is always right. An argument won,is usually a customer lost.
* If you receive an order with an underpayment, ship the order and bill the customer for the difference.
* Make refunds on overpayments quickly.
* Most mail order companies offer a 30 day money back guarantee. Some offer 90 days and even more.
* It is unwise to offer money back guarantees on items priced very inexpensively, for example, a $3.00 report.

RECORD KEEPING

* As in any business, it is important to keep records.
* You need records to tell you what is going on in your business; to evaluate both your revenues and your expenses.
* It is also required by law that you keep certain records.
* Keep especially good records of your advertising expenses so you can evaluate your advertising on an ongoing basis.

MAILING LISTS

* It is recommended that you do no direct mailings, except to your own list of customers and inquirers, until you have
thoroughly tested a specific product through advertising.
* Stay away from inexpensive mailing lists, under $40.00 -$50.00 per 1000.
* Avoid mailing lists whose owners make unrealistic claims.
* Work with a list broker who wants to see your product before he will rent you a list. Lists are rented for one time use.
* Lists from professional list brokers rent from $60.00 and
up, per thousand names.
* The general consensus is that you need to mail a minimum of 1000 names to get a fair reading. 5000 names would give you a more accurate test.
* Buyer' names are better than names of inquiries.
* The best mailing list is your own list of buyers. Second best is your own list of inquirers.

FOLLOW UP

* The most important factor in mail order is FOLLOW-UP
Substantial profits can be generated from this segment, if it is properly handled.
* You can generate a lot of sales by including promotional material when filling orders for customers. Other orders are generated from mailings that are made to former customers, as well as individuals who inquired about an offer in the past.
* Send out regular mailings to your customers. At a minimum,
four times per year. However, you can send out mailings as often as every 6 weeks or so, if you have a new product to offer.
* As you build your mailing lists and you send out regular
mailings, your orders will start flowing in.

RESEARCH AND EDUCATION

* Whether you are new to this field or not, to stay on top, you must continue your education by reading books and reports on mail order and subscribing to mail order publications.
* Always be on the lookout for new products you can offer your customers.
* Study the advertising of your competitors. Request their
material and study it.
* Study all mailings you receive.

Continue to learn about mail order by reading, experimenting, and talking with other mail order operators. Have patience. Success will not come overnight. It takes time to build a successful business. Start slowly and expand your business from your profits.

Good Luck!

Is Troy Aikman a Hall of Famer?

2007-05-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

For the first time since 2001, a full compliment of six players was elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. I'm 45 and was able to see and remember each during his career. In my opinion, four selections are solid (Reggie White, Warren Moon, John Madden, Rayfield Wright), one leaves me ambivalent (Harry Carson), and then there's Troy Aikman.

Reggie White was the most dominant defensive lineman of his era and retired with most sacks (198) in NFL history at the time. The "Minister of Defense" started in the USFL but in his 15 year NFL career went to 13 Pro Bowls. No Brainer.

Madden and Wright were senior-committee selections and both have merit. Madden has the highest winning percentage (.759) of ANY coach with 100 wins and won a Super Bowl, probably long overdue. Rayfield Wright was considered the "linchpin" of the offensive line for the great Cowboy teams of the 70's - no problem there.

Warren Moon's NFL numbers are staggering. His CFL/NFL numbers are mindboggling! In 23 years of organized football, Warren Moon threw for 72,184 yards and 457 touchdowns, 51.061 and 313 in the NFL. By comparison, Dan Marino finished with 61,361 and 420. The hall didn't hold Moon's vagabond final years and lack of Super Bowl ring against him.

Harry Carson in my eyes was one of the parts of the sum in that great "Wrecking Crew" defense of the Giants Parcell's Giant era. Lawrence Taylor deservedly got all the pub but lets not forget that Brian Kelly and Brad van Pelt were both excellent linebackers and Jim Burt and Leonard Marshall vastly underrated defensive linemen. Nitschke, Butkus, Lambert, Carson ???

Troy Aikman's career stats: 61.5%, 32,942 yards, 165 TDs, 145 Ints, QB rating of 81.6

There have been six other quarterbacks inducted into the Hall of Fame since 2000 (Montana, Kelly, Elway. Marino, Young, and Moon), and everyone's number other than Steve Young's dwarf Troy Aikman's. So lets start with Steve Young.

Steve Young is another I would consider good but not great yet compared to Aikman, Young is first ballot. Despite spending half his career in the USFL, Tampa bay, hurt, or sitting behind Montana, Young still threw for slight more yardage and 67 more touchdowns than Aikman. Young could also hurt you with his legs rushing for 4238 yards at 5.9 yards per carry with an additional 33 touchdowns.

Of the seven, Aikman's completion percentage is lower than all but Kelly (60.1%) and Moon (NFL number 58.4%). Aikman's 165 touchdowns pales in comparison to everyone else's 237+. The others all threw for 40,000 plus yards and only Moon (80.1) and Elway (79.9) had lower quarterback ratings.

Call me old school but I think the Hall of Fame should be reserved for the truly greats of the game. I realize that HOF criteria is not strictly numbers based and involves many intangibles including leadership and winning but Troy Aikman was clearly not great. This is an argument generally reserved for baseball but applicable here.

Let's look at some players that are coming up soon, just retired or will retire soon. Most I consider good but not great. Perhaps the closest analogy to Aikman is Scotty Pippin, decent numbers, 6 championships, Does he deserve to get in ??? In my eyes - No/Maybe. Regardless of situation, ANWHERE, Scotty Pippin was good 17/9 player that played excellent defense. He's a slam dunk to go but if on fringe, the defense would send him through.

Jerome Bettis. The Bus. He's top 10 rushing all-time but if Steeler's hadn't won, where's Jerome. Does he deserve to go? A marginal yes, Will he get in? Maybe down the line during a thin year. Could anybody in good conscience mention his name in the same breath as Earl Campbell. I don't think so.

Baseball is the most fun. In an age of Roids and Juiced balls, how about these guys, Juan Gonzalez (420+ HR's), Jeff Bagwell (430+ HR's), Tom Glavine (260 wins), Frank Thomas (420+ HR's). Cobb, Ruth, DiMaggio, Aaron, Bagwell. Rolls right off your tongue doesn't it

A lot of great players get dogged about their careers for not winning a championship, Ted Williams, Dan Marino, Maravich, Barkley, and Karl Malone. Some get dogged for not winning enough, Wilt Chamberlain. There are lots of good players considered great because they won and in this instance, Troy Aikman can step to the head of the class.

The Colorado Connection

Blogging Your Way To Success Part 4

2007-05-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

(Continued from Blogging Your Way To Success Part 3)

In this last part of the series, we will summarize what we have covered:

1) You have registered for a Blogger account at http://www.blogger.com.

2) You have created at least 20 pages of content and set to archive daily.

3) You have registered an account with AdSense.

4) You have created a feedback form at your blog.

5) You have started your link exchange campaigns.

With most of the technical things taken care off, the maintenance of your blog depends heavily on your consistent updates.

Make it a ritual (not just a habit) to post at least once a day at your blog. If you want visitors to keep coming back to your web site, then let your visitors have your word that you will post just as often.

Your posts need not be a timely issue. Rather, you can offer tips and ideas on a specific topic. For instance, if your blog is about football, you do not necessarily have to update your visitors with the latest scores. You can do that on a timely basis. But rather, you can teach your visitors tips and tricks on playing football.

By now, you have one source of revenue. In time, you can either create your own product or source for other peoples products to sell at your web site.

From time to time, you will want to establish link exchanging campaigns to build your page ranks as well as drive in fresh targeted traffic derived from other peoples web sites.

If you need to see an example to model after, you can visit my blog at http://ebizmodelsyoucancopy.blogspot.com/.

There you go a complete step-by-step guide on creating your own blog! Towards your blogging success!

Growing Up - Again

Managing Your Phobias and Fears While In A Relationship

2007-05-25T00:29:00.000-07:00

How can you manage your phobias and other related fears while being in a relationship? It can be tough to be in a relationship and have to deal with your fears and other phobias.

One of the ways to manage your particular phobia is to find out what exactly is your fear. If you have trouble finding out what that fear may be, then try to talk to a professional who can help you figure out what the fear may be. Once you know what the fear is, then the next step is to find the ways to deal with that fear.

For instance, one of the ways to manage your fear is to challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make your fearful or anxious, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. For example, your afraid that if you do not get that job promotion then you will be stuck at your job forever. This depresses you, however your thinking in this situation is unrealistic. The fact of the matter is that there all are kinds of jobs available and just because you dont get this job promotion doesnt mean that you will never get one. In addition, people change jobs all the time, and you always have that option of going elsewhere if you are unhappy at your present location. Changing your thinking can help you manage your fears.

Sometimes, we may be nervous doing a certain task that may be scary. When this happens, visualize yourself doing the task in your mind. For instance, you and your team have to play in the championship hockey game in front of a large group of people in the next few days. Before the big day comes, imagine yourself playing the game in your mind. Imagine that your playing in front of a large audience. By playing the game in your mind, you will be better prepared to perform for real when the time comes. Self Visualization is a great way to reduce the fear and stress of a coming situation.

When facing a current or upcoming task that overwhelms you with a lot of anxiety, divide the task into a series of smaller steps and then complete each of the smaller tasks one at a time. Completing these smaller tasks will make the stress more manageable and increases your chances of success.

As a layman, I realize it is not easy to overcome our phobias. Remember that sometimes our worrying and fears can make the problem even worse. Take things in stride and try not focus too much on the problem. In time, you will find the ways to overcome your phobia. If you have trouble, talk to a professional who can give you additional insights on your situation.

Fergie Ringtones

6 Internet Marketing Myths

2007-05-24T23:24:00.000-07:00

Every day thousands of people go online to make money but most of them fail miserably because they either truly believe one of the 6 Internet Marketing Myths or or all of them. You can read them below and discover the grain of salt in all of them.

Myth #1: Internet Marketing is EASY

This is probably the biggest myth of all, and let me tell you Internet marketing is hard, takes time, effort not mention money and anyone who suggests otherwise is trying to sell you a bunch of horse hockey. Granted that it's comparatively easier to brick and mortar in that there's no inventory to carry, no shipping of goods no sales staff and virtually no overhead, but a lot of work is still involved.

Myth #2: ANYONE Can Make Money Online

Folks, this is simply not true. Unless someone gets off their lazy boy recliner and download/read everything they can about internet marketing, and put an action plan in motion, they will never make a dime on the internet. DO NOTHING, MAKE NOTHING.

Myth #3: You Can "GET RICH QUICK" On the Net!

This is the trap that a lot of newbie internet marketers falls into including myself when I first started, why? because scammers make it sounds so easy and let me tell you, chasing "get rich quick scheme" is a WASTE OF TIME!, money and energy. It just won't happen overnight, instead do some research and find out what people really want and need then give it to them especially a sense of reality.

Myth #4: It's FREE to Do Business Online

This is one of my favorite myths because I believed it during my first year of internet marketing and it just wasn't true then, it isn't true today. Compared to opening your first coffee shop or gift shop in downtown Los Angeles, internet business start-up cost and maintenance cost is pretty low. Once you have your domain set up, you only pay for internet connection, advertising and ongoing educations, that's it. You can't expect to make money selling free stuff and ask others to do the same. Folks! it takes money to make money.

Myth #5: It's TOO LATE to Start an Internet Business

Most super affiliate marketers would love to hear people say "It's too late now, too many competitions, I should just pack my bags and go home, the internet is too complicated, etc...". You know why? the less people they have to compete with the better which in turn will make them more money.

The fact is, it's never ever too late to start anything and that includes internet business. I firmly believe that the internet is not going anywhere and you should too. Every year the stats will show you the number of people shoppingonline are increasing, their spending dollars are growing and the number of people going online is increasing also.

Myth #6: The BIG Money Talk is JUST HYPE

As I've told you before, "it takes money to make money?" Well it's true, although you will be hard pressed to find experienced internet marketers to tell how much they spend on promoting and advertising. Sometimes, you have to dig a little deeper to find the truth in every hype you read. It's a fact that the people that makes alot of money online also spends alot of money on advertising, tools, resources and know how to get the job done.

If you are willing to take the necessary action to make 'big money' happen for you - it will. It takes time. You can criticize, be skeptical and sure that 'big money' can't happen for you - and it won't. Sit down and write a financial and a sound business plan. Local Chamber of Commerce can give all the info you need to get started.

If you believe that you will succeed you're right, if you believe that it won't work, you're right also.

To summarize, you have heard people's story how they're making a fortune on the internet and how easy it is but the reality is some stories are NOT out of this world or unrealistic but it just doesn't happen overnight. You just have to apply a bit of common sense into it, find what you love to do, have a game plan, stay focus and you my friend might find the right opportunity to make all your dreams come true.

Dating Help

Soccer Jerseys - A Fad among Soccer Lovers

2007-05-23T22:18:00.000-07:00

Soccer players are not the only persons who wear soccer jerseys. These days more and more people are wearing jerseys of their favorite soccer team. Wearing authentic jerseys to promote their favorite teams and display their affiliations is not a new concept among sports lovers. However, off late wearing authentic jerseys of popular teams has acquired the status of passion. Even though you will find people of all ages wearing replica jerseys, young and college going crowd displays and added inclination towards soccer jersey.

Soccer Jersey- Reasons for Increasing Popularity

Soccer has always lagged behind as sports apparel-merchandising opportunity in America. Traditionally soccer uniforms were not as popular as football, basketball, hockey and baseball sports gear. However, the World Cup Soccer in 1994 has added a new dimension to the popularity of this sport. Thereafter sports apparel of soccer has gained extreme popularity and sports equipment manufacturers are overwhelmed by the continuous expansion in demand for authentic jerseys and replica jerseys.

Authentic jerseys of soccer are not only popular during the soccer season but people prefer to wear them even otherwise. This jersey is a short sleeve T-shirt type jersey and is very comfortable. Since the official gear of soccer teams has bright and vibrant colors, it is more of a fashion statement and display of style for the younger generation.

You can shop for a jersey of your favorite soccer team or player at the nearby sports apparel store, departmental store or online sports apparel stores. If you are on a lookout for authentic jerseys, you should contact the sports store or the team's store selling the official gear. It is better to buy sports apparel at least two months before the start of the soccer season. That time the stores have fresh stock of sports merchandise and you can pick a good jersey of your favorite soccer team.

Water Bed

Do You Want to Know a Secret? Solomon's Temple Revealed

2007-05-22T21:13:00.000-07:00

There is a journey that we all must take. It is called life. There is no escaping this journey. We cannot pay somebody to take it for us or take the pain and sorrow that frequents our path. Without our mother and father there would be no help at all from the very start. We would be helpless and we would die.

We are born with no knowledge whatsoever other than some minor genetic memories, and many of us simply follow the patterns that life, evolution and our peers throw at us. We subconsciously assume we must do as our forefathers; we must follow in their footsteps; we must marry, have children, get a job, step onto the roller-coaster of commercialism and the greed oriented rat race we know as capitalism or even communism. There is seemingly no way out of this life and anyway, most of us are enthused by the chase - for we truly know do different.

All of this is perfectly natural. We are, after all, apes with less hair. We strive to be the alpha male and female; to be top dog; to fit in with the society or tribe that surrounds us and support the same football team as our friends. And often that society is just a larger version of our selves; it is created by groups of selves.

But, in the times gone by, our ancestors saw through all of this and recognized that there was another way. They discovered that in-order for man to elevate himself above the level of the brown earth upon which he scrambled he needed to alter his internal dialogue. Man needed to understand himself and the forces that drive him.

This unique understanding - that there could be a higher goal for mankind, whether collectively or individually - evolved into what we now know as Gnosticism. Of course this is a massive oversimplification and we should always take into account the mystics those who have experienced what we would call other-worldly emotions or visions. Also, regardless of popular perception, the Christians were not the only Gnostics and mystics. Gnostic comes from the Greek word gignoskein meaning simply to know. It was applied to one sect of so-called philosophers in the first ages of Christianity.

However, the term is now being used more loosely and I personally see the term slightly differently to others and probably in a controversial light.

To me the Greek term implies all-knowledge. This is a kind of knowledge gained much like plugging ones mind into the world wide web and being able to download every single piece of data in an instant. In the same way, the true Gnostic, much like the mystic, could understand all things in a unique way. Whether this is the mind tapping into the collective unconscious, the Akashic records, or any other name given to the process, does not matter for the purpose of this article, the fact remains, it was believed. And because of this belief, physical manifestations of the internal belief system emerged the world over. In this way, the temples of man, were exactly that Temples of Man.

Gnosis then, means knowledge of the most esoteric kind and this is the story that has been hidden from our eyes for too long. This is the truth of the secret societies that we on the outside are supposedly too worldly to comprehend.

The Temple

So, let us now try our best to comprehend the Temple of Solomon and in doing so, let us walk upon Holy ground, trodden only by the initiated.

In the years of my own searching there were times when I would be found at the feet of the Magi, sitting and listening to the wise words of the Sufi, joining in the debate at some Freemasonic Lodge. All the time I was learning and viewing the process with an open ear and an open eye, and yet also balancing it all with the knowledge of modern day science and reductionism. Both worlds, the one of the esoteric and the one of science are useless apart both are needed today if we are to truly understand and believe.

And so down to facts about the Temple of Solomon. Well, unfortunately we are sadly lacking in any archaeological evidence, regardless of what you read on some literal fundamentalist website. What we are told is that in the 10th century BC, the wise King Solomon erected a great Temple to the Lord. Unfortunately, if any of this is true, then we actually find that it was a Temple, which encompassed many pagan religions.

According to Professor James Pritchard in his book, Solomon and Sheba (1974, p.35):

.. the so-called cities of Megiddo, Gezer and Hazor, and Jerusalem itself were in reality more like villages.. Within were relatively small public buildings and poorly constructed dwellings with clay floors. The objects reveal a material culture which, even by the standards of the ancient Near East, could not be judged sophisticated or luxurious.. The magnificence of the age of Solomon is parochial and decidedly lackluster, but the first book of Kings implies exactly the opposite.

In fact and in the bright light of day, what we actually have, and what most writers are afraid to say, is no evidence whatsoever for Solomons Temple. In fact, we have no evidence for Solomon, other than these peculiar Biblical texts. Neither do we have any evidence for the Queen of Sheba, or any of the other characters involved. Instead, there is more depth than could ever be imagined, more meaning than we would dare to believe.

John Michell in The Temple at Jerusalem: A Revelation, (Gothic Image) gives us an insight to the real meaning.:

Legends of the Temple describe it as the instrument of a mystical, priestly science, a form of alchemy by which oppositely charged elements in the earth and atmosphere were brought together and ritually married. The product of their union was a spirit that blessed and sanctified the people of Israel.

How right Michell is. The Temple is an instrument of mystical and priestly science or even magic. The secret unravels before our eyes the more we learn. You see the true Gnostic, the true disciple or perfect one, must be a man or woman of balance. He or she must unite the two sides of the mind, the male and female principles as they are called. We are all both male and female and the alchemists used this concept of balance and revealed it in their images of the Hermaphrodite, half man and half woman.

Solomon, was no real man, and Sheba was no real woman. Instead they were symbols of this internal and often external process. The whole story of Solomon, Sheba and the Temple, which is the perfectly formed body, both physical and spiritual, is the story of our own psyche. It is an esoteric truth, misunderstood in its exoteric form.

Hiram

Hiram was the son of a Jewish mother and a Phoenician father and is credited with the decoration of the Temple of Solomon. He was said to have been the son of a widow of the tribe of Naphtali He cast two bronze pillars 1 Kings 7:13-15.

We must also note something of interest mentioned in 1 Kings 16:

Then he made two capitals of cast bronze, to set on top of the pillars. The height of one capital was 5 cubits; and the height of the other capital was five cubits. He made a lattice network, with wreaths of chainwork, for the capitals which were on top of the pillars: seven chains for one capital and seven for the other capital.

These pillars became known as Jachin, meaning he establishes and Boaz, which means in him is strength and these are now familiar to most modern Freemasons as central to their own Lodge or Temple. Copies of these can be clearly seen at the infamous Rosslyn Chapel as we shall discover.

But, what is interesting here is the original text about these pillars. Firstly bronze is used for the capitals, just as bronze is used for the Brazen Serpent of Moses and is indicative of the fiery aspect of the serpent as one of the channels in the Kundalini process. Their heights were 5 cubits, matching the five hooded cobras seen across India and atop many pillars, although the Bible calls them Lilies, which are symbols of balance anyway.

Leading up to these capitals then were wreaths of chainwork, seven on each pillar. Strangely these chains were for the capitals, and so we conclude that these seven levelled chains (coils) were pointing towards the head (capital) just as the serpents of the Kundalini do.

There are more real links between Hiram and the serpent. For instance, we noted above that he was of the Tribe of Naphtali. The standard of the Tribe of Naphtali, according to Jewish tradition, is a serpent or basilisk and this could have come from Egyptian origins, as Jewish tradition states that Naphtali was the brother of Joseph, chosen to represent the family to Pharaoh.

And now I have sent a skillful man, endowed with understanding, Huram [Hiram] my master [father] craftsman, (the son of a woman of the daughters of Dan, and his father was a man of Tyre), skilled to work in gold and silver, bronze and iron, stone and wood, purple and blue, fine linen and crimson, and to make any engraving and to accomplish any plan which may be given to him, with your skilful men and with the skilful men of my lord David your father. 2 Chronicles 2:13-14.

Here, Hiram is said to be a son of the Tribe of Dan and even the tribe of Dan had an emblem, which was amazingly also the serpent, this time with a horse.

Incredibly there is also a hidden truth and repetitive pattern in this little statement about the real skills of this literary character. Follow this pattern:

Hiram is skilled in:-

1 gold and silver,
2 bronze and iron,
3 stone and wood,
4 purple and blue,
5 fine linen and crimson,
6 and to make any engraving
7 and to accomplish any plan which may be given to him.

Note that there are seven balanced elements to the skill of the man who will build the Temple! This is a real clue to the Temples secret indeed.

According to this book of Chronicles Hiram was a cunning man (a word used for the serpent) endued with understanding, skilful as we can see in the work of gold, silver, brass, stone and timber. But he was also credited with certain tools, which could pierce stone. Stone, as I show in Gnosis is symbolic of wisdom and foundation. Hirams tool therefore pierced the veil or even the very root of wisdom.

According to the book of Kings the Temple was built of stone (or wisdom) before it was brought to the site. Something like a prefabricated building. It was said by tradition that neither hammer nor axe, nor any tool of iron was used in the building. So how was it built? This in itself is a paradox, which can only be answered by the true secret of the Temple being revealed.

According to Rabbinical teaching the prefabrication of the Temple was performed by the Shamir, a giant worm or serpent that could cut stones (incidentally worm means serpent). Not dissimilar to Norse and Celtic beliefs where Valhalla and Camelot were built with the fire of the dragon and in China where building is aided by the serpent energy.

This is a universal concept as can be seen in India, where it was the serpentine linked Nagas of fable who escaped their country and took the architectural wisdom abroad. The architect gods, such as Thoth of Egypt, are linked strongly with the serpent wisdom because they are linked with the building of Temples of Wisdom inside our SELVES.

The Shamir, according to one legend had even been placed in the hands of the Prince of the Sea (Shamir by Wilhelm Bacher & Ludwig Blau), which of course is symbolic of the Prince of Wisdom.

In essence what we really have here is the Temple of Wisdom being built by the serpent and that serpent is none other than that of, or similar to, the internal Kundalini, later to be developed into the Kabbalah. This is a psychological training manual; a method of self-improvement; a way for society to become One; a multi-layered method of getting closer to the deity which resides in each and everyone of us; a deity, that the ancients saw as being the same in each of us.

The whole process repeats again and again throughout the Bible. The Temple is reduced (like the alchemical method) and is remade. Then again and again, until finally the Christ is the Temple which is reduced (killed) and then rises again for the last time. And now, according to the texts, we can all meet with this Christ and we can all have the knowledge. We just need to understand that the true Christ is all and in all. But this hasn't worked has it. Man is still even now in the 21st century, searching for answers and so the temple is being reduced once again

I say, we should all take a look at our own "temples" and knock them to the ground. We should then go about re-building them in a bigger and better way than before, just like the Bible states. And more than that, we must keep on doing this until this world of ours has peace and all truly are equal before God.

Free Online Dating

Getting Help For Your Fear, Bipolar, And Anxiety Problems

2007-05-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

It is not easy to deal with your fears, bipolar, or anxiety problems. The first step is that you should talk to a professional who can get you started in the right path of getting better. Getting help from a counselor or other professional is very important and can provide you much help and insights in dealing with your current problem. In addition, here are some techniques a person can use to help manage their fears, bipolar, and anxieties.

Learn to take it one day at a time. Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or coming month, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn new things and that includes learning how to deal with your problems. Focus on the present and stop trying to predict what may happen next week. Next week will take care of itself.

A good way to manage your fear is to challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make your fearful or anxious, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense.

Remember that there is one power that is stronger than your fears and that is the power of God. A person does not have to be religious to use the power of God. When the going gets tough, talk to God about your problems as if you were talking to a friend. Review the Bible and pray hard. Be persistent and be open in the avenues that God may provide to you in solving your problem. It is not always easy, however God is in control and he will help you if you ask him.

As a Layman, I realize it is not easy to deal with all of our fears, however there are all kinds of help available. The key is to be patient and not to give up. In time, you will be able to find those resources that will help you with your problems.

Learn Blogging

Ben Roethlisberger

2007-05-20T19:02:00.000-07:00

The Pittsburgh Steelers found a real gem when they drafted AFL quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger. Nicknamed Big Ben, this Ohio native led the Steelers to the Super Bowl during his second year in the league.

An interest in sports during his high school years perhaps led to Roethlisbergers success. As captain of the football, basketball and baseball teams, this star in the making finally landed his spot as the quarterback of his high school football team during his senior year. It appears as if that practice paid off - literally. In 2004, when Ben Roethlisberger found his way into the NFL Draft, the Steelers signed him to a six year contract with an impressive signing bonus. During his rookie season, Roethlisberger succeeded with a 13-0 record for the best start by a rookie.

In October 2005, just one year after he was selected in the draft, Ben Roethlisberger became the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year as named by the Associated Press. During his rookie season, passing records were something to be broken by this Findlay High School graduate. Among them, best passer rating and highest completion percentage. It was obvious to all who saw him, including Dallas Cowboys coach Bill Parcells, that this young man was here to play. And play he did. As the 2005 regular season wrapped up, the Steelers had secured the AFC leagues wild card position in the Super Bowl XL. On February 5, 2006, the Steelers took hom the Super Bowl victory in a win against the Seattle Seahawks.

Roethlisberger is far from being your average quarterback. In fact, his stature leaves little doubt that he is a force to be reckoned with. Tied with few others as the tallest starting quarterback in the NFL, Big Ben knows how to use his height to read the competition. In addition, his arm seemingly has a knack for guiding the passes to their intended receiver. There is no doubt that height would be an advantage to any quarterback trying to spot an open receiver on the field.

Ben Roethlisberger is the second youngest quarterback to play in the NFL Super Bowl. While he has been compared to many legends of the game, Roethlisberger is out to make a name for himself. With only his second regular season behind him, and 4 years remaining on his contract with the Steelers, it looks as if Pittsburgh can expect Big Ben to be a powerhouse for the team in the years to come. Whats next for this NFL superstar in the making? Stay tuned and find out.

Job Hunter's Paradise

Essence of Commitment

2007-05-19T17:56:00.000-07:00

If you ever have been part of a winning team, not just a winning team but a team that meshed and worked like magic and overcame huge obstacles like the 1980 US Hockey team that beat the Russians, you know what synergy means. It is like magic. When a couple becomes committed to each other, they become a team. It means they leave their respective families and join together to make a new family that is the first family and the roots of a new family tree. It is sort of like a seed that drops on the forest floor and becomes a brand new tree. That seed is no longer attached to the parent tree. It is not a difficult concept. However, it seems to me that most people entering into marriage have ambivalence about the concept. They have ties to their birth family and in many cases to their former spouses, and in-laws that are difficult for them to sever.

The bottom line of this message is that when you are in a committed relationship, there is only one other person that you must consider when making your decisions and that other person is the person to whom you have committed. You are now a grown up.

Sounds good on paper, doesnt it?

What happens however, when your father becomes suddenly, critically ill, or your mother unexpectedly arrives in town and wants to visit when you have plans with your spouse? How about when your ex is hospitalized and has no one to take care of your children when you and your spouse have non-transferable reservations for a week long cruise. If you understand that you and your spouse are a team, you are one. This is when you must enforce the boundaries that you have previously determined. You decide together what the plan will be. You may have to make some compromises, in order to deal with the situation, but the two of you must come to agreement and respect each others point of view. The two of you together have more power and ability to deal with challenges than either of you would alone. You can argue, you can disagree, you can even join different political parties, but when it comes to an issue which involves the integrity of your family, you are always both on the same side. Let me clarify what I mean by on the same side. You do not have to agree on the issue, but you must be coming from the perspective of what is best for each other. In more basic terms, I love you, I want what is best for you, I want what is best for us, and from my heart I believe that this POV is what will support our love for each other the best.

It appears that the most difficult to sever are the parental and sometimes sibling relationships. What each of you must remember is that you are no longer your mothers son or daughter, first. You are a spouse. You have your own first family, and all of your relatives, that includes, parents, step-parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, cousins etc. are secondary family members. You must be gracious to them but you do not answer to them. You are the ruler of your own first family. You get to make your own choices and though you may consider their feelings, your decisions reflect your best choices for the welfare of your first family.

You did this to me or you did this to hurt me will never be your point of view if you are a team. You can fight and you can disagree, but your partner must always know that you are coming from that place of sacred intimacy that the two of you share where you know you are both on the same side. You are a synergistic team. Your end result will always result in an outcome that is greater than either or both of you could have done alone. Even when it seems that you are at odds and the differences cannot be resolved, if you know that your sacred promise to be on the same team is secure, that is your COMMITMENT. Everything else about commitment is a story. Please note that if and when you come from that mean place inside of you that aims to cause pain to the one that you love, you are no longer on the same team.

House Decorating Ideas

Dealing With Negative People Made Easy

2007-05-18T16:51:00.000-07:00

I was playing tennis today with one of my tennis buddies. We play once a week and we usually chat about work, professional tennis players and local news.

Today he was very negative about the people of the area we live in. According to him they are all thieves and crooks.

Now this makes me really angry when I hear him talking like this since I have had very positive experiences with the people I have dealt with locally. I find the locals to be very friendly, helpful and considerate.

So we disagree on the facts. What can I do about his negative thinking? What can you do when dealing with negative people?

Three Ways To Deal With Negative People

1. Get specific

When someone is caught up in negative thinking they will often generalize their statements. It is a good idea to ask them questions to clarify what they mean.

For example if my friend says all dogs are aggressive I will ask him:

Small dogs or big dogs? All dogs or certain breeds? According to who? In what kind of situations?

By doing this you can shift the perspective of the negative person from a generalized over reaction to a highly specific opinion. This will ease some of the negativity and the intensity of their outburst.

2. Let Go

Let go of wanting to control the opinions of the people you deal with no matter how negative they are. By all means talk to the negative person and use your persuasion skills to help give them a more positive outlook.

However remember that each of us is entitled to be negative, wrong and inaccurate! Once you accept this you will not get so stressed about wanting to change people who are negative.

And ironically when you stop trying to change people they can almost sense that you accept them and so your words have more impact.

3. Choose to Be Positive

When people around us are negative sometimes the easiest thing to do is to join in. You do not have to. If you want to just go ahead.

Otherwise find ways to maintain a positive attitude. Look for the positives in the situation and point them out to people. Ask yourself how you can use this opportunity to become better.

And refuse to get dragged down by others into the murky waters of negativity no matter how bad it gets.

Being positive is a choice even when those around you have slipped into negativity.

Dating Advice

How to Have Confidence by Adopting a Realistic Attitude

2007-05-17T15:46:00.000-07:00

If you are struggling with how to have confidence in your life, you are not alone. Most people think that self-confidence is something that lucky people have, people who can do anything and everything.

Part of the problem with confidence is we think we have to have tons and tons of it and all the time. The reality is, that not everyone knows how to have confidence in all situations.

Self-confidence is really an attitude a person has, that allows them to have a positive view of themselves and the situations life may put them. People with a confident attitude are realistic. They trust in their own abilities and believe that they will be able to do most of what they want to do in life. They know they cant do everything.

To look at how to have confidence you need to understand that the typical person is always going to have some areas in their life that they are more confident than others.

You can be very athletic and comfortably confident in your athletic abilities while not feeling confident when meeting new people. Chances are you are confident in more ways than you may realize. The key to discovering a realistic self-confidence is to remove some of the false beliefs you may have developed.

1. False Belief:

I believe that to be successful in life I have to be competent in all the important areas of life.

Realistic Belief:

I know that achievement-based thinking is not the true way to feel worthy. I get some satisfaction when I achieve things that I set out to do, but I know that failures have nothing to do with my personal worth. I was born worthy.

2. False Belief:

The past has shown me how to have confidence in myself or not. My past is my most important guidance-system.

Realistic Belief:

As we grow we dont have the same vulnerabilities we did when we were young. Youve gained some awareness on what you think should continue to influence you in life. You choose which areas of the past that youll allow to steer the present, but you dont have to be a slave to the past.

3. False Belief:

Everybody knows that bad things happen more than good things. The good things I do cant be given too much importance with all the bad. People remember the bad so I should, too. Maybe if I concentrate hard enough, Ill have less bad results.

Realistic Belief:

I know that if I win 4 out of 5 times, that dwelling on the one time I lose and how terrible I feel is not a positive outlook. I know I cant win all the time! Its enough for me to do well at something most of the time.

I can use how good it feels to win next time things arent falling my way, because I know its only a temporary setback.

Learning how to have confidence has a lot to do with learning how to have a more realistic attitude towards lifes ups and downs.

Self Improvement Blog

League One Betting Review - 13 February 2006

2007-05-16T14:41:00.000-07:00

Southend United replaced Colchester at the top of League One with a routine win over struggling Rotherham United on Friday night. Big hitters will have relished the 1/2 on offer for the Shrimpers and they didnt disappoint with goals from Shaun Goater and Fredy Eastwood.

Former leaders Colchester United lost ground and saw their club record run of 10 successive victories end as they were beaten at Huddersfield Town. A deflected shot from Jon Worthington after 14 minutes and a 68 minute goal for David Graham sealed victory for the 6/4 promotion chasing Terriers.

Swansea City earned their second win in a row at Nottingham Forest to keep the pressure on the automatic promotion places. The Swans recent poor form meant they were as large as 2/1 but goals from Adrian Forbes and Lee Trundle cancelled out Nathan Tysons opening goal for Forest.

Brentford moved up to fourth place by recording a fourth successive win at the expense of Bristol City. Lloyd Owusus goal 12 minutes from time earned victory at 9/5 for the Bees.

Both Southend United at 11/4 and Cochester United are 11/4 joint favourites to win League One outright. Brentford, who have games in hand over both Colchester and Swansea City are available at 7/2 while returning to form Swansea are 11/2 outsiders.

Chesterfield saw their run of 10 matches unbeaten end on Friday night against Hartlepool United who boosted their own chances of survival. Substitute Matty Robson netted the decisive goal after 65 minutes to earn a welcome 6/4 and see the Monkey Hangers climb to seventeenth in the table.

A last minute equaliser from Sean OHanlon ensured relegation strugglers Swindon Town remained unbeaten in three matches. Dean Windass looked to have granted Bradford City a 20/21 win with a goal 11 minutes from time until OHanlon nodded in at the death.

Bottom club MK Dons gave themselves a fighting chance of survival with a 3-0 win over Blackpool. Two goals from Izale McLeod and former Tangerines frontman Scott Taylor gave the 6/4 Dons a vital three points.

Water Beds

League Two Betting Review

2007-05-15T13:36:00.000-07:00

Carlisle returned to the top of League Two after thumping basement club Rushden & Diamonds 5-0 at Brunton Park. Derek Holmes put the Cumbrians ahead after 42 seconds and it was one-way traffic thereafter with two goals each from Karl Hawley and Simon Hackney. Paul Simpsons side were 8/15 favourites on the day and 4/1 to win the division outright.

Second placed Wycombe were held to a 1-1 draw at Boston. Julian Joachim gave the home side a 56th minute lead but Kevin Betsy levelled matters 15 minutes later. This was John Gormans sides seventeenth draw of the season, something noted by shrewd punters backing at 9/4.

Veteran Ian Taylors goal nine minutes from time propelled 8/15 Northampton into the third automatic promotion spot with a victory against Torquay United on Friday night.

Fifth placed Leyton Orient kept up their promotion dreams and plunged Chester into further relegation trouble with a 2-0 win. A Matthew Lockwood penalty 10 minutes before the break and Paul Connor after 72 minutes secured a 13/10 win.

Play-off chasing Peterborough chalked up their fourth win in five matches with a 2-1 victory at Notts County. Danny Crow and James Quinn put the 9/5 Posh in the driving seat before Eugene Dadi netted a late penalty for the Magpies.

Wrexham looked set to earn victory at 9/5 after on-loan Blackburn striker gave them a 2-0 lead at Mansfield, only for Richie Barker to hit back with two goals in three minutes to secure a point at Field Mill.

Stockport kept their heads above water after coming from two goals behind to draw 2-2 at Bristol Rovers. Two goals from Richard Walker looked enough for an 8/11 home win, but the Hatters fought back through Adam Le Fondre and a Mark Hughes equaliser two minutes from time.

Adult Diapers

Fit The Fishing Rod To The Fishing Task

2007-05-13T23:30:00.001-07:00

See yourself standing on the bank of a swiftly moving stream in the shade of a gnarled willow, your fishing rod bent beneath the weight of an unusually large catch.

Whether or not you land that fish depends on the decisions you made at the shop -- primarily the type of rod.

The ABCs Of Fishing Rods

Your rod is the most important tool you will use while fishing, and you can chose from a wide range of types, styles and lengths.

A fishing rod is a shaft of graphite, fiberglass, steel, wood or bamboo used to catch fish (duh). Fishing filament (line), is threaded through the ferrules (eyes) along the rod. The ferrule at the tip directs the cast. 1 end of the line winds around a reel at the base of the pole. The other end of the line has a baited hook attached to it.

Fishing rods vary from 4 feet (for children) to 16 feet, with the average being 6 feet long. Rod length is chosen based on: the species of fish you target and the environment you will fish at.

Landscape

If your fishing hole is beside trees with overhead branches, you'll need a short, flexible rod. Flexibility -- the amount the rod can bend before breaking -- is determined by the diameter of the pole. Light rods are thin and flexible, while stronger rods are thicker and more rigid.

For open terrain, flexible, thin rods that are 10 to 12 feet long are good, unless it is too windy.

Fresh Water Or Salt Water?

Freshwater fishing occurs in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, while saltwater fishing is done in oceans and along the coast. Choose a rod appropriate to the environment.

Plan For Species Of Fish

Short, strong rods are best for landing game fish. Stronger and thicker rods should be used for large, aggressive fish. Such fish could break a lighter pole.

Select Rod By Material

Common types of fishing rods include bamboo, fiberglass and graphite.

Bamboo rods can be a basic, inexpensive pole with a line attached, to very expensive handcrafted rods that are used for fly-fishing. Bamboo rods run from $5 up to hundreds of dollars for handcrafted fly fishing rods. If you are not planning to do fly-fishing, fiberglass or graphite rods are best.

Fiberglass rods are good for beginners and kids and they're reasonably priced. They come in many lengths, flexibility characteristics, and require very little maintenance.

Many experienced anglers prefer graphite rods, because they are very lightweight and extremely strong.

A Fitting Rod

Your goal should be to find a rod that fits your arm and is comfortable. If you have trouble choosing, ask someone with experience to go along or just ask the staff at a fishing store. A few pointers will quickly get you on your way -- to a world of fun.

Better Designs

Do You Know How to Fillet a Fish?

2007-05-12T23:25:00.000-07:00

Finally you've caught the perfect fish. Now, do you know how to fillet your fish?

You can't be happier. You have finally caught the perfect fish. Do you know how to fillet your fish? Once you become an expert at fish filleting, you probably will be asked to fillet everyone else's catch.

Firstly, get a good knife and a cutting board or hard surface and lay the fish down on it. You must cut the head of the fish off right to the rear of its gills.

Secondly, holding the fish by its tail, take the knife with the blade pointing away from your body and toward where the head was; slice the body of the fish crosswise. The backbone of the fish can be used to direct the knife through.

Thirdly, take one half of the sliced fish and place the fish piece flesh side up. Holding the fish piece by the tail, place the knife between the skin and the flesh and run the knife down the length of the fish piece to remove the skin cutting in the direction of the tail to the head area. Now there. A perfectly filleted fish.

Mortgage Refinancing

The Best Detroit Piston Team Ever

2007-05-11T22:19:00.000-07:00

Which is the best Detroit Piston team of all time? I have pondered this question deeply and have engaged in many a bar stool debate. As a lifelong sports fan and hoops junkie, I find asking which the best team is in the history of a storied franchise like the Detroit Pistons is big part of what makes sports fun. For the purposes of this particular debate, there are really only two options by anyones standards: the championship Detroit Piston teams of the mid to late 80s and the more recent teams of 2004 and 2005 who went to two finals series and won a championship.

The arguments for the Detroit Piston teams of the late 80s are certainly easy to make. Those Bad Boys teams were trend setters. The 80s were a time of high scoring offenses and soft defenses. Scores routinely made it into triple digits as teams like the Lakers, Celtics, Rockets, and Sixers ruled the league. Then the Detroit Pistons came along with their tough, hard nosed, no easy baskets style of defense. They gave way to teams like the Bulls and Knicks who adopted similar defensive philosophies. Setting such a trend in a league like the NBA is certainly cause for consideration of greatness.

The Bad Boys Piston teams also had names and recognizable talent that the later championship teams would lack. Names like Isaiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, and Bill Laimbeer are still known throughout the league. They are the greats of Detroit Piston basketball and to some degree of the NBA. Not only were these names recognizable and historic in league and team history, but also they were names of winners. Obviously the more recent teams are winners, but they have yet to combine the historical names, the winning, and the stamp on history that comes along with setting a trend.

There is, however, an argument to be made for the Detroit Piston teams of the early 2000s. Those teams have represented that city of Detroit with their blue collar methods. The collection of cast-offs from around the NBA shows that a true team can be the personification of the idea that the whole can be more than the sum of its parts. You could also make the argument that when it is all said and done, the names Billups, Wallace, Wallace, and Prince will be just as well known as those of the Bad Boys. With one championship ring, another appearance in the finals, and a quick start to the 2005-2006 season, the modern Detroit Piston team may even end up with more championships to their credit. And in the end, isnt it all about rings when it comes to the legacy of any great team?

When it comes to great basketball franchises, the Detroit Pistons may not be the first name to roll of the tongue, but they certainly will come in at some point. With at least two great runs in the history of the franchise, the argument over who is the best Detroit Piston team is one that may end in a draw. However, it is those great debates that will help both Detroit Piston teams to maintain their place in the mindset of Piston fans as well as basketball fans for years to come.

Divorce Lawyer

I'd Like $50 on the Predators!

2007-05-10T21:14:00.000-07:00

Rick It was learned on Wednesday that former Flyers star and current Phoenix Coyotes assistant coach Rick Tocchet could be in some hot water with both the NHL and the New Jersey State Police, after authorities busted a sports gambling ring he helped finance. According to authorities, Operation Slap Shot (real creative title there guys, I guess Operation Icing and Operation Crosscheck were both already taken) uncovered a sports betting system that processed more than 1,000 wagers with a total of about $1.7 million on professional and collegiate sporting events during a 40-day period. Tocchet has been identified as a partner and financier of the ring (along with a New Jersey state trooper), and State Police also say that "Police Academy 5" star and wife of Wayne Gretzky, Janet Jones, placed bets for players on the Coyotes.

No one involved has been accused of betting on hockey games, by the way. All bets were made on sports other than the NHL. So, were not talking about NHL players placing bets on their own games, like Pete Rose did. Still, this could be a major scandal for the NHL. Perhaps even more shocking to me was the fact that I had no idea that Rick Tocchet was still in the NHL! Did you know he was a coach on the Coyotes? And did you know that he and Wayne Gretzky, the Coyotes head coach, were BFFs? It got me to thinking with Tocchet turning to the gambling industry following his playing career (with a little coaching mixed in), what jobs do you think some ex-Flyers may be pursuing now that their playing career is finished, and what jobs do you think some current Flyers may pursue when they hang up the skates?

(Cue the dream sequence sound effects and graphics)

Mike Bullard Dentist (if anyone knows about dental work, it would be ol Gappy)
Tim Kerr Hunchback (years of back problems)
Dominic Roussel Motivational Speaker (centering around teamwork)
Ron Hextall Anger Management Coach (because he always kept a cool head)
Brian Propp Anything but a radio color analyst (damn, too late)
Peter Zezel Teen Magazine Editor (hell, he appeared in enough of those things anyway)
Eric Lindros Mafia Hit Man (fuhgeddaboutit)
Billy Tibbets Unemployed (its hard for a rapist to find a good job nowadays)
Kjell Samuelson Lumberjack (obviously)
Keith Primeau Lets just have Keith be able to run on a treadmill for 10 minutes without falling over before we give the guy a job
Chris Gratton Not sure exactly, but I do know that hed get a promotion then crumble under the pressure of higher expectations
Chris Therien First things first. Lets just get the guy to retire first and then we can figure out a job for him. RETIRE CHRIS!
Garth Snow Sofa Maker (hey, the guy likes padding)
Donald Brashear Professional Swimmer (just like the NHL, hed be the only black guy out there)

Those are just a few. And hey, lets make this interactive. Make sure to click on the forums link, reply to this column and add a couple of your own! You can use any current or former Flyer. Maybe theyll check in sometime if theyre low on ideas or worried about what theyre going to do when they decide to retire. In the end, theyll thank us.

In the meantime, Tocchet is expected to be arraigned within the next 7-10 days and will most likely be suspended by the NHL for his role in the gambling ring. And Rick, if you do end up having to do a little time in the pokey, tell Billy Tibbets we all said hello.

Chrysler Crossfire Fanclub Blog

How to Structure a "Subject-to" Offer

2007-05-06T22:31:00.000-07:00

Ok, let's say you have located a seller who is highly motivated to sell a particular property.

Using your "Check List for Leads" form, you ask the seller focused, specific questions about the most essential criteria of the deal. After questions are answered, you see the following scenario.

3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath
After Repair Value $260,000
Purchase Price: $195,000
(6.5% int, 30 yr fixed - price is sellers payoff on existing loan)
Repairs Zero Seller had it fixed up already.
Existing Mortgage Payment: $1232.53 (existing payment P&I)
Taxes $2500
Insurance $900
PITI $1515.86 (your actual cost per month with Principal, Interest, Taxes and Insurance)

Keep property location in mind, when thinking of your exit strategy. If property is on astreet that is predominantly rental, it may not be wise to plan to retail the property to anowner occupant. When you have a deadline such as a balloon or a note that will haveto be paid off at some future point, like in 24 months, your exit strategy must be realistic.The seller is motivated and said that he would consider any offer that would get thesepayments off his back. He has a dead beat tenant in another property and can't make two payments.In this case, as with many "subject-to" offers, we are only offering the payoff, which is $195K.

The potential advantage of making an offer "subject-to" the existing mortgage is financial. You will not have to qualify for a new loan. You will save thousands in loan origination fees, points, etc. that you could have to pay in conjunction with a new loan. This improves your potential profit margin.

We decide we are willing to offer the seller his payoff, if he is willing to agree to sell,subject-to his existing loan. If the seller is truly motivated, the fact that you can close a "subject-to" very quickly can be a big selling point.

In our example, the seller agrees to the "subject-to" arrangement, but saysthat he wants this loan off his credit within 24 months. At that point, the buyer must cash the seller out by getting new financing or selling the property.

Some sellers will be smart enough to ask for "perks", like a cash down payment. Other sellers will be too motivated or won't think to ask for anything down. You have to go with the flow of each deal.

When we write a "subject-to" offer, we want to be as specific about our agreement and terms as possible.

The contract form that I use for writing offers has plenty of space on page one, near the blank where you enter the purchase price.

The form used is not important. To be binding, any offer to purchase real estate must be in writing. But there is no standard form. Contracts range from the generic variety that you can buy at the office supply store, to the official forms approved for use by sales agents in your state.

The form that licensed sales agents use, has a "stipulations" section. You can put the terms of your offer in the stipulations section of your contract, or on page one if space permits. It does not matter, as long as the correct terms are spelled out somewhere. The seller could decide to counter-offer, mark out your stipulations, change them, or add new ones.

Below are some clauses that I would write into this offer:

Purchase Price: $195,000 "Subject-to existing mortgage of $195,000, with payments of $1232.53 per month, principal and interest. Buyer agrees to pay off existing mortgage anytime in a period not to exceed 24 months from date of closing of this agreement."(these are the basic terms of our agreement)

"Buyer to purchase adequate insurance protection valued at or above the purchase price of property."

(you want to have insurance anyway, but I like to put this in to make the seller feel more comfortable)

You want to be clear about any and all terms of your agreement with seller. It may be very simple, as in the example above, or there could be other terms that you and the seller will negotiate and agree to.

When negotiating, you will not always be able to discuss terms with a seller prior to making an offer that is "subject-to" their existing mortgage. But, if the seller is not willing to discuss the situation and is not forthcoming with information, then chances are you are talking to the wrong seller. Those who are truly motivated, or have a problem they need to solve, will usually be willing to get into a meaningful discussion of the details. If a seller is difficult to deal with, chances are they are not that motivated.

I don't waste a lot of time in such cases. I explain to sellers that I need certain information in order to determine if there is a way that I can help them. Otherwise, I move on.

Your most likely source for creative deals are those who really need to achieve a specific, sometimes urgent objective, like getting out of debt, or avoiding foreclosure. But there are many reasons for doing a creative deal.

There is nothing really complicated about writing "subject-to" offers. You just need to be clear. It is essential that the language is not confusing. Your objective in writing the offer is to dictate the terms of the existing mortgage. In so doing, you are stating how much you are willing to pay, and how you intend to pay it, and when. Think of the "who", "what", "when", "where", guide to writing, when documenting the offer.

I have also done "subject-to" deals with sellers who were not in financial trouble, but just the opposite. There are sellers who will consider "subject-to" offers because of the tax benefits for them. I have had sellers who did not want to collect a large chunk of cash all at once. Or, a seller who does not want to collect the funds in a particular tax year. "Subject-to" offers can be used to address many different kinds of issues.

We tend to associate creative financing with desperation. And in many cases, sellers are desperate. But in some cases, a "subject-to" deal is merely the most beneficial means to an end for both parties.

Every situation and offer are different.Writing creative offers is a skill that you will develop with time and experience.***

NOTE: This article is intended only for general information purposes, and should not be construed as legal advice.If you need help filling out a real contract, please see your favorite real estate attorney first!

The Departed

Refresher Course for Women on How to Win an Argument With a Man

2007-05-06T17:24:00.000-07:00

Okay, most of you are going to say -- I win all my arguments with him, I don't need a refresher course. Sure, that's what he wants you to think. But I've been reading the courses available for men on how to win arguments with women, and I have to tell you ladies, we might be in trouble. Have you ever noticed that even after you win the argument, he goes and does the same thing yet again? Is it because he hates you? Is it because he wants a divorce? NO. It's because he wasn't listening when he nodded his head at you; he was just trying to get you to shut up. It means he's been reading those articles too, and that means Trouble.

We don't want to lose our edge here, girls. So, for those of you who haven't quite finessed the art yet, and for those who've become complacent over the years, here is a quick refresher course.

It is, of course, best to nip the head-nodding response in the bud. The first time he ever nods his head at you and says, You know what? You're right. Smile at him and say, I knew it. What do you want to name her? You'll have his undivided attention for the rest of your life. If it's too late for that, and you've already married the bastard, then the next time he does it, smile at him and say, I knew it. I can't wait to tell your mother. You will have his undivided attention for at least another two to three years.

Now that you have his attention, argument two should go much more smoothly. Every time he disagrees with you, add a different topic to the conversation. It will confuse him, distract him, and give you the upper hand in a REAL way. E.g.: He says, I was in my underwear 'coz I don't expect people to just walk into the house unannounced. I was happily drinking beer and watching the Braves. How was I to know your mother would come charging in here? Don't take the bait -- this is his attempt to change the subject. Steel yourself and say: The Braves? Who cares about the Braves? NOW, you're in the lead. He, of course, has to defend the best baseball team in the world. And we all know how to respond to this one, right? You say, Yes, you're right, except for the Dallas Cowboys. While he uses up his energy explaining the subtle differences between football and baseball, all you have to do is bat your eyelashes and wait for him to reach the boiling point of frustration. This is the moment to get back to the real point, Can't you at least put on a pair of shorts while you're guzzling your beer in front of the TV? -- and quickly insert You know, your mother loves the Cowboys. Trust me, you've won this argument.

And lastly, don't ever forget, whenever you're making a point, always add something at the end that insults him a little bit. E.g. Yes, we are lost. You never admit it when you get lost. If you had really huge balls, you'd admit that we're lost. This way, he has to stop and wonder why you don't already think he has enormous balls, and once men start thinking about that part of their anatomy, they never get back to the argument. You will not only have won the argument, but also have gotten the upper hand in the next three to come.

Water Bed

Blog Ads

2007-05-06T15:38:00.000-07:00

Blogging is main stream. The White House Press Office considers bloggers journalists. Companies like domain giant Go Daddy use blogs to send their marketing message into the viral stratosphere.

Blogs can be the rantings of left wing lunatics, rock stars, opinion makers, or business icons. How about blogs penned by country club wives' investment clubs. Name a topic of interest and there's a blog to go with it.

The question for the forward thinking marketer is, can blogs be a valuable tool to advertise your product or service? The answer: a resounding yes. Blog advertising is beginning to find its way into the marketing mix for many businesses. It presents the same advantages as ezine or email marketing--an inexpensive, effective, trackable tool.

Blog advertising has another attractiveness--The ability to place ads rejected by the Old Media. When the United Chuch of Christ had its commercials rejected by at least two of the big three TV networks last year, they turned to blog advertising with very nice results, thank you very much!

As the marketplace continues to be more fragmented, look for blogvertising to move to the fore. Blogs shape opinion and begin trends. They cater to niche interest groups. Isn't that the audience you want? The one most interested in your product that will tell others. The audience that will finally show you what viral and word of mouth marketing really means.

Teeth Whitening

Sports and Romance

2007-05-05T20:45:00.000-07:00

How can sports possibly be be romantic? It's simple. Just ask any man who has cheered on his favorite team, while cuddling with his wife, and he'll tell you.

Many women I know profess to hate all sports. Why? If it's something your husband really enjoys, wouldn't you rather learn about it, and share the common bond of sports than to have him watch it alone or always leave to watch it with his buddies? Me? I'd rather be a sports wife than a sports widow.

Before you start to panic, let me sneak in a disclaimer. No, you don't have to put on a parka and sit through an icy-cold Green Bay Packers game in November to show your husband your love. You can certainly sit warm and cozy on your living room couch together, to show him that he is special to you.

Does the thought of being cooped up indoors watching a game bore you to tears? If so, take him on a trip to see his favorite professional team or player. Or, for a more relaxed date, go to a local Middle School or High School game. You'll love the energy. It's hard not to get hooked watching those kids put their hearts and souls into their games.

You're still not convinced? Why not show your romantic side with your sports-loving husband in a fun, active way. No matter what his favorite sport is, you can easily find a way to participate.

Football Fans: Toss the football with him in the yard. If you've never played football before or just got your nails done, use a Nerf ball. When he lets you tackle him, you can sneak in a kiss.

Basketball Fans: Shoot hoops in the driveway. Play a game of "HORSE". The winner gets a back rub or snuggling afterwards. That way you both win!

Baseball Fans: Play catch with a water balloon on a hot summer day. Go to the batting cage. Or join a softball league together. It's great exercise, and you get to enjoy time together.

Hockey Fans: Dust off your rollerblades, grab a hockey stick and a street puck and hit the street with your husband. What do you have to lose other than a few inches off your thighs?

Fantasy Sports Fans: Join his Fantasy Football, Baseball or Basketball League. It's a great way to get to know his friends and also be one of the 'cool' wives. You might even surprise him and win a few games.

Golf Fans: Play golf together. Or, if your finances are tight, try a game of mini-golf!

NASCAR fans: Visit the local arcade. Find two racing games that are connected so you can race each other.

Tour de France fans: This one is easy. Pack a lunch and a few jugs of water on your bikes and hit the road.

No matter what you plan, it'll be a treat for him. And, the next time you're watching an episode of Desperate Housewives, don't be surprised if you find your husband sitting next to you.

Growing Up - Again