Carmine

Is your business looking for new and creative ways to gain publicity and build your customer base? Partnering with non profit organizations may benefit your business in many ways.

Why business owners and managers should consider supporting non profits as part of their marketing strategy:

1. Advertising opportunities are usually offered when non profit organizations request corporate sponsorship. Types of advertising may include a business card size ad in a program, a sign at an event, or your business name mentioned in radio or TV ads.

2. Partnering with non profits increases public relations and a general feeling of goodwill toward your company.

3. Participating in the planning of non profit events, attending an event, or volunteering your time increases your opportunities to meet potential customers.

4. Finally, there are tax breaks for donating money to a charitable cause. Check with your accountant for more details.

There are many ways that business owners can partner with non profit organizations in order to reach more potential customers.

Volunteering Your Time

Volunteering your time to help a non profit cause will give you an opportunity to develop relationships with non profit leaders and volunteers. You can work on volunteer committees, planning events, or even just stuffing envelopes. How about donating an hour or two to man the phones for MDA on labor day weekend, a public television drive or another telethon? How about staffing a booth at a school carnival? Savvy business people see such volunteer activities as opportunities to connect with other business people, network and build relationships with potential clients.

Donating Merchandise

Many non profit groups hold live and silent auctions or need door prizes for their events. This is an opportunity for you to show potential clients your merchandise or sample your services. This strategy works well for many types of businesses, heres some examples:

A photographer donates a gift certificate AND loans the NPO a large scale portrait from their portfolio. Even if someone does not win the gift certificate, they may be impressed with your style of photography and call to set up an appointment anyway!

Restaurants have an easy way out on this one! Donate a gift certificate to the non profit organization. The receiver gets to sample your food, service and atmosphere. Who knows, you may have just gained a customer for life!

Financial Donations

Donating a financial gift to a charity of your choice may have advertising and tax benefits as discussed earlier.

Attending Non Profit Events

Charities host a variety of fun events such as arts festivals, dinners, galas, casino nights and auctions. Participating in a charity fundraiser or other event will give you an easy way to donate financially to the group. Events also provide time to build relationships with other business people and potential clients, in a fun relaxed environment.

Donating Facilities

Does your company have a gym, banquet facility or auditorium? By donating or offering a reduced rate to non profit organizations, you may receive great public relations and word of mouth advertising benefits in return.

Heres a great example: A bowling center in Florida offers their facility for students to hold a bowl-a-thon. Students get per pin pledges prior to the event. According to owner, Lisa Ciniello, The Bowling Centers do not make a lot of money, but we encourage these events as it gives great exposure. In our locations we charge $5.00 to $8.00 per student and no charge for rental shoes.

Connecting With Your Community

One of the best ways to find opportunities to donate to non profits and network with other business leaders is to join a civic club or chamber of commerce. These organizations meet 1-4 times per month in your local city. They usually have a small list of favorite charities or support their own foundations.

The civic clubs that you may want to consider joining include Optimist International, Kiwanis International or Business & Professional Women.

Finally, partnering with non profit organizations gives your business a way to reach out to the local community. Your business can contribute to the greater good and help many people, just by joining forces with charitable organizations.

About the Author: Sandra Sims has been fundraising for various charities for over 10 years. She is the publisher of Step By Step Fundraising e-zine, which will help you get maximum results from your charity fundraising campaign. Get a free report The 5 Keys to Successful Fundraising

There are a large number of individuals who are looking to complete higher education and hence a market has emerged offering classes that can be finished at home with online courses.

There are people who are interested in learning Christian courses but may not be able to do so because of financial or time constraints. There are schools, colleges, and universities that offer online Christian courses, which are accessible anytime and anywhere at affordable prices.

Christian courses available online include non-degree courses, master degrees, doctoral programs, and various other programs. Some free non-degree courses available are Christian personality development, study of the Bible etc. Postgraduate Diploma in Christian Apologetics, Master of Bible Subjects, and Master of Divinity are some master degrees that are available. Courses in Master of Theology and Master of Religious Education are also offered online. Doctoral Programs such as Doctor of Ministry (D.Min), Doctor of Philosophy (Phd), Doctor of Systematic Theology (STD) and Doctor of Letters (In Theology) (Dlit) are also very much available.

Stress management course is also one of the courses available online. This course is appropriate for training in basic stress management and competence counseling and social care. Another option open to online learners is a Flowing and Growing Counselling Course designed with the view of personal development as well as learning new skills that will prepare a student for a role within the Counselling Field. Courses on Spiritual Inner Healing, Spiritual Warfare are also accessible. Many of the schools, colleges, and universities offering online Christian courses are non-profit institutions. In many cases they charge no tuition fees. A small registration fees is charged in some cases to show the learner's interest in the course. Free tuition may also be made possible by the voluntary service rendered by the committed faculty members. The registration fees paid normally goes to compensate incidental expenses.

Online Courses provides detailed information on Online Courses, Online College Courses, Free Online Courses, Online Computer Courses and more. Online Courses is affiliated with Online MCSE Training Courses.

Summer vacation is almost over. The stores are hurriedly putting up the Back to School signs and frantic kids are racing to complete their summer homework which has been collecting dust up until now. The mood in most homes is somber and there is a cloud of doom hanging about in the air. But hold on a minute! There are still a couple weeks left of summer. Stop rushing for it to be over and celebrate the end of the summer season with your kids!

There are a lot of super fun ways to end your summer with a BANG!

Here are a few:

Slammin Slumber Party-

Plan a themed slumber party, like Under the Stars Sleepover, for your children and a bunch of their friends. There is no better way to end the summer than with a party that lasts all night long!

Make invitations out of black paper cut into a large star shapes. Brush the stars with a thin layer of glue and sprinkle each star with glitter. Write the details of the party on the back in silver ink. Ask each child to bring a sleeping bag and a favorite stuffed animal.

Set up several tents (which can be bought on the cheap from local tag sales or discounts stores). String up several lanterns in the backyard and you are set for a night under the stars! Serve the kids hotdogs and hamburgers as the main course. And for dessert make some Smores in the microwave!

To make 1 dozen Smores:

24 Graham Crackers
6 plain chocolate bars
12 large marshmallows

Method:

On 2 large microwave safe plates arrange 6 graham crackers per plate. Break all 6 chocolate bars in half and place 1 half on each graham cracker. Place 1 marshmallow on top of each cracker and top all of them each with another graham cracker to complete the sandwich.

Place in the microwave, on high power, for 20 seconds until the marshmallow puffs.

Wrap up the evening by having all the kids lay side by side in the grass while taking turns sharing their best summer memory. Send everyone off to their tent so that you can enjoy the remains of the sparkling summer sky!

Summer Moments Box

An excellent way to keep the summer memories alive is to make a Summer Memories box. You can pick up a ready made wooden box at your local craft or hobby shop. Have your kids collect sand and seashells on your next trip to the beach.

To decorate the box, paint it with a sheer coat of clear lacquer and have your kids sprinkle sand and silver glitter all over it. Allow it to dry. Once dry, let your kids spell out their names on the box with the seashells. Use a glue gun to secure the shells but be careful that your kids fingers are out of the way first!

Fill the box with all the treasure collected over the summer like that perfect stone your daughter found or a movie stub from the show your son just had to see.

Take out the box whenever your kids feel stressed from school or are down in the dumps. Remembering the summer is sure to bring a smile to anyones face!

Summerall year long!

Just because summer lasts for only 3 short months does not mean you cant rejoice in the season all year long. Change the dcor in your home to reflect a summertime feel. Instead of dark and dreary colors, lighten things up with pastel and sheer fabrics to cover your windows and furniture.

Instead of investing in pricey pieces of art to sit on the mantel, turn to nature to decorate your home. Large pieces of coral or colorful seashells are inexpensive yet creative ways to maintain the summer theme in your home.

Be creative and think out of the box! Remember that old surfboard lying all banged up in the attic? Fish it out and refurbish it. Hang it in a prominent place in your home to really make a great conversation piece. If you dont have a surfboard perhaps you can add a few surfboard themes around your home. Perhaps a couple of pillows with a surfboard theme or some surfboard soaps in your bathroom. Keep the waves moving all year long!

Goodbye summer Bon Voyage Picnic

Alas, summer will leave without any remorse. Say goodbye to the season in style by having a summer picnic right on the beach. Nothing fancy, just a bag of some cold-cut sandwiches and some watermelon slices from home.

Make it special by surprising your kids with a couple of empty bottles complete with cork stoppers. Whip out some decorative paper and pens. Ask your kids to write a Message in a Bottle letter complete with their name and e-mail address. Roll up each letter and insert into the bottle. Secure the cork stoppers tightly to insure that the bottle will float and the water will stay out. Let your kids throw their bottles far into the ocean.

You never know, the bottles might sail the ocean all winter long and be found just in time for next summer. Hopefully, by another child looking for a summer fun pen pal in a distant land!

As you bid farewell to the last breathes of summer just remember it will be back again next year with all its sunny days and starry nights. Remember it in your heart and it will be back before you know it!

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Web conferencing is an online-based system of interaction that utilizes modern audio-video facilities and digital compression technology to facilitate real-time and remote, face to face conferencing. This communications facility comes as an enhanced version of the video conferencing facility introduced in the 60s that was sparingly used until the late 80s due to inherent glitches in the process of converting analog data to digital format. Compression technology available at that time was deemed inefficient to result in poor picture and audio quality during the conference.

Incidentally, the infrastructure running video conferencing systems ranging from proprietary equipment such as the T1, ATM and IDSN lines were very expensive. Moreover, pertinent software and network requirements only increased cost parameters relevant to the system.

The late 90s saw the emergence of a viable web conferencing system with the availability of Internet Protocol (IP) platforms and more reliable video compression technology. The use of Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) or Internet Telephony to route conversations to the internet even extended the cost-effective attributes of web conferencing. Apart from VOIP being cheaper, it is location-independent and could therefore be accessed from any global location where internet access is available. Furthermore, VOIP can be integrated with other internet services such as data or file transfer and audio-video conferencing.

Today, web conferencing has become a popular venue for the conduct of remote meetings, conferences and presentations between individuals based in different global locations. This technology also provides a host of benefits to businesses in terms of time and cost savings given a viable alternative to personal, face to face meetings.

Now, more than ever, online-based technologies such as web-conferencing are reshaping the fundamentals of global communications and commerce.

Copyright 2007 www.Web-Conference.us
This article may be freely reprinted in your ezine, e-book, blog or web site so long as this copyright notice is left unchanged and the live link to Web-Conference.us is included.

Did you know that coffee beans have to be roasted before they are ground or brewed? Most people are not aware of this. Many of our ancestors were master coffee roasters, but this art was almost lost when machines began to be commonly used to roast the beans before they got to market. Because there was no method to keep the beans fresh, Early American homemakers and trail hands purchased raw coffee beans from the mercantile in town, and then took them home or back to camp where they roasted them in an iron skillet on the stove or over an open fire. This method took great skill to determine the degree of roast and bring out the best flavor in every cup.

That's because every bean and every crop is different and each coffee bean shares its best quality at a different degree of roasting. This depends upon the roasting temperature as well as how long the bean is heated. A temperature of 390 degrees Fahrenheit causes the beans to darken. The colors vary from light cinnamon to dark cocoa with Italian and French roasts being the darkest. Without proper knowledge to understand the technique of coffee roasting, it is impossible to get the coffee beans to the same degree of roast and color every time.

At the start of the industrial revolution, the owners of huge factories looked for ways to get more productivity from their workers. Huge machines began to mass produce and package coffee and soon coffee roasting became an assembly line process behind brick factory walls hidden from the public's eye. Once vacuum packaging became available, people could buy coffee already ground. Although roasting is easier with machines that produce a consistent flavor for every bag or can, they can never replace the skill and experience of a master roaster.

Consumers are becoming more selective and less willing to accept commercial ground coffee in a five pound can. Coffee lovers today want quality coffee that is aromatic, fresh and flavorful. They are finding this great coffee in the small independent coffeehouses that are resurrecting the old-fashioned roasting process by roasting and grinding their own beans.

Mugsy's Coffee Company located in Clarksville, Tennessee stands out as a small independent coffeehouse that has revived the art of roasting coffee beans. Stacks of burlap sacks fill the room surrounded by busy people pecking away at their laptops or making plans for the day. The roaster is carefully pulling samples from the micro roaster and as the fresh roasted coffee beans fills the cooling tray and the aroma fills the air. At Mugsy's, you may choose from our own house select brands.

The smell of roasting coffee beans is one of the most comforting and relaxing things around town. Many who don't even like to drink coffee will stop by Mugsy's across from gate three on Ft. Campbell Blvd. just to smell the familiar aroma and relax on the overstuffed furniture while watching the roasting process and enjoying good company. Taste and smell the difference in fresh roasted coffee. Support your small independent coffeehouses. When you visit Mugsy's, be sure to tell them Ray sent you.

Visit Mugsy's online at http://www.mugsyscoffeeco.com

This article was edited and posted by coffee lover, Yvonne Perry. The owner of Mugsy's is a client of Write On! Creative Writing Services.

Yvonne Perry is a freelance writer and editor who assists people with any type of writing project. She is available to help you with telling your story or writing/editing your book, newsletter, or articles. Her podcast Writers in the Sky is filled with information about the craft and business of writing, publishing, marketing and networking. New subscribers to her F*REE monthly newsletter receive a complimentary eBook Tips for Freelance Writing.

Mesothelioma is one of the deadliest cancers for a number of reasons. It has a prolonged latency period during which it destroys the mucous-producing membrane that lines the outer surface of a number of organs. This membrane allows the organs to move, which in turn allows them to function. Over a period of decades mesothelioma destroys healthy cells by assaulting them with three main avenues of attack: epithelioid, sarcomatoid, biphasic cells.

Epithelioid mesothelioma cells are the most common and relatively easiest to treat of all types of mesothelioma. This type of cell appears to be a papillary or tubular growth that usually affects the outer membranes and linings of the internal organs and other bodily surfaces. Somewhere between 50 and 70% of all mesothelioma cases belong to this category, and although this cancer is usually extremely difficult to treat, epithelioid mesothelioma is the most likely to respond to treatment.

The second type of mesothelioma is sarcomatoid mesothelioma. This type is the most serious form of the disease, as it is the least likely to respond to treatment. These spindle-shaped pattern of cells that appear to overlap each other are also fortunately the rarest type of the cancer, with approximately 10-20% of all mesothelioma cases falling into this type. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is so dangerous because it attacks and arises from the support tissues of the body, such as bone, cartilage, fat, and muscle, and cancers in these areas are notoriously difficult and painful to treat. Patients with this form of cancer rarely live longer than six months after diagnosis.

The final condition, biphasic mesothelioma, is not an independent type of mesothelioma, but a combination of sarcomatoid and epithelioid. It is also a mixed bag of conditions in that it can take the good and bad aspects of the other two types, and almost 20-35% of all mesothelioma cases fall into either mixed or biphasic areas.

Without a doubt, mesothelioma is one of the most devastating types of cancer. Most people rarely live beyond a year after their initial diagnosis, and few victims reach five years. Mesothelioma is almost always caused by asbestos exposure, and millions of people have had contact with this deadly substance.

To learn more about Epithelioid Mesothelioma, Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma or Biphasic Mesothelioma please visit our website at www.resource4mesothelioma.com This article may be freely reprinted as long as this resource box is included and all links stay intact as hyperlinks.

Most people would love to own a McDonalds franchise. They understand that even with the huge investment of Hundreds of thousands of Dollars they will make a very comfortable annual wage. I havent seen a McDonalds go out of business have you?

A franchise like McDonalds is simply a cookie cutter business that anyone who follows a specified formula can and will make money. The drawback of course is you have to have a large amount of capital. Then you have to go to Hamburger University and then you are finally in business unless of course your application for a Franchise is denied.

Then after you are up an running you are generally required to buy all your supplies from the franchise and pay a monthly Franchise fee. Companies like McDonalds, Subway, Quiznos and others wouldnt continue to use this model if it werent successful Just do a Google search on Franchise and you will find 100s if not 1000s of these franchises in every product and service category imaginable.

The right MLM is as good or not better then one of these high priced franchises. You can get started for $500 or less. Your monthly costs are often $100 a month or less and your potential profits are virtually unlimited.

Finding the Right MLM can be a huge problem. I recommend finding an MLM that markets financial services like Life Insurance to Middle America. You also need an MLM that will allow you to succeed simply by being a producer. Thats right you shouldnt have to be required to get your friends, neighbors, family and church members involved. Of course if you do decide to build a team you should be rewarded very well for building a small team of 3 to 10 people.

While it is possible to get a license and sell life insurance as an independent agent without the support of Franchise (AKA MLM) the right franchise can really help you skyrocket your income by providing training, Leads, Web Sites and great products all for a very affordable start up cost

About the Author

Mike BigMak Makler Offers Financial Services (Life Insurance, Annuities and Mortgage Protection) in Florissant Missouri which is in North St. Louis County Missouri Just Across the Bridge from St. Charles Missouri and Alton IL

Call Mike at 314 398-5547

Visit Mike's Web Pages:
http://naabigmak.com

For Insurance Questions:
http://123mortgagesave.com

Copyright 2005-2006 Mike BigMak Makler

If you are thinking of purchasing a manufactured home and are wondering if it is the same as a traditionally built house when it comes to finding a home loan lender then you can breathe easier. Most home lenders view a manufactured home the same a a stick built house and will process a mortgage the same way.

There are quite a few choices when it comes getting a new home loan. You can of course go to your local bank, find a company that specializes in home mortgages, or use probably the easiest route, apply for an online home mortgage loan. And the best thing about going online is you never have to leave the comfort of your house.

There are a multitude of online loan lenders to choose from and they offer all manner of loans and interest rates. Many of these sites are also designed to process you loan application quickly and efficiently which means you will have an answer quickly. This can usually happen in a day or two, so you will know if your application has been approved. After that many online lenders can have your loan to you within two weeks.

There is a basic set of steps that need to be followed when finding a lender for a manufactured home loan. Also remember that by going online you can get multiple quotes from different lenders allowing you to pick the terms that work best for you.

1. Find several home loan lender websites that you feel will give you a good deal, fill out their applications and click the submit button.

2. After you submit your application you will receive a phone call from a representative of the different companies you applied to. They will verify the information on your application as well as let you know any additional information you may need to provide.

3. When the application has been verified you will have to print it out, sign it, and either fax it or send it via mail to the loan company. You may also be asked to provide other paper work that they require such as proof of income or income tax returns.

4. After you application and other paper work has been processed the loan company representative will once again call you in order to set up your closing. This will be where you sign the official loan papers, completing the loan transaction.

5. The signed loan papers will be returned to the lender at which time they will release the loan money to you or the manufactured home builder.

There is one thing you need to be aware of and that is online loan lenders that promise to have your loan completed and the money to you or your builder the same day as your application. There are certain processes that must be adhered to when it comes to a manufactured home loan and a good lender will follow these.

To learn more about getting an online home equity loan please visit the website Home-Equity-Loans.

The condition known as hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not function properly. This results in the body having reduced levels of thyroid hormone in it. Dry skin, hair loss, hoarseness, excessive menstruation, fatigue, lethargy, depression, intolerance to cold, constipation and weight gain are all symptoms of hypothyroidism.

There are different causes of hypothyroidism, cretinism is a type of hypothyroidism that develops at birth and results in stunted growth and mental development. A common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimotos thyroiditis which is an autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland. Damage done during radiation treatment or surgery to the thyroid gland to treat hyperthyroidism (an over active thyroid gland) is another common cause of hypothyroidism. Also some drugs, such as phenylbutazone and lithium, sometimes also cause hypothyroidism. Some people with an enlargement of the thyroid gland which is known as goitre have hypothyroidism. This is cause by an iodine deficiency which could be the result of eating too many foods that contain goitrogens such as rapeseed, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower or by another disorder that effects the thyroid hormone production. A condition known as secondary hypothyroidism is cause by the hypothalamus or pituitary gland not stimulating the thyroid gland properly. Severe hypothyroidism is called myxedema.

Extreme iodine deficiency is another possible cause of hypothyroidism but this is rare.

Medical treatment of hypothyroidism consists of prescribing synthetic thyroid or desiccated thyroid hormone. Naturopathic practitioners like to use desiccated natural thyroid complete with all thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormone replacement is necessary in most cases of hypothyroidism.

Changing the diet will help with hypothyroidism. Eating goitrogenic foods such as rapeseed, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, maize, lima beans, soya and pearl millet should be limited. These foods contain natural goitrogens, which are chemicals that cause the enlargement of the thyroid gland by interfering with thyroid hormone synthesis. Cooking is known to make the goitrogens elements less effective but it would be wise not eat these foods raw. Foods that contain iodine such as kelp, beetroot, radish, parsley, potatoes, fish, oatmeal and bananas should be kept in the diet. In the treatment of underactive thyroid, fats, sugars, sodium chloride, red meat and egg intake should also be restricted.

The relationship between iodine and thyroid is complex, iodine is needed by the body to form thyroid hormone, and goitre and hypothyroidism can occur through iodine deficiency. Extreme and prolonged iodine deficiency can lead to serious types of hypothyroidism, such as cretinism or myxedema. On the other hand, consumption of excessive iodine intake can result in either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The amount of 150 mcg that is usually in multi-mineral supplements should be enough to stop iodine deficiency but not enough to do harm.

The amino acid tyrosine is an essential part of the thyroid hormones and neurotransmitters; this has been found to be deficient in people with hypothyroidism. Practitioners often recommended a low dose of thyroxine such as 1000mg to correct hypothyroidism. People with depression also have low levels of tyrosine, this is why it has be linked to hypothyroidism.

Vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin E are needed for the synthesis of thyroxine. The B vitamins and copper are vital co-factors for tyrosine metabolism. Copper, iron, selenium and zinc are essential in the production of T3 from T4.

Some herbs can help combat hypothyroidism, nettle will balance the thyroid with both under and over activity. Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) is a type of brown seaweed that contains iodine. Hypothyroidism due to small intake of iodine may possibly improve with bladderwrack supplementation; also kelp has been linked to helping with hypothyroidism. Some people with hypothyroidism have seen improvements by taking Chinese herbs.

Another aspect to look at is chemical sensitivities. Research has shown an association between hypothyroidism and multiple chemical sensitivities. It was found that people with exposure to toxic heavy metals, polybrominated biphenyls and cardon disulfides through their occupations suffered from depression, fatigue, poor memory and constipation which are all symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Another important factor in the treatment of hypothyroidism is exercise. Exercise increases tissue sensitivity to the thyroid hormone and stimulates thyroid gland secretion. This is especially true in people who are dieting; this is because when dieting the metabolic rate decreases but exercise prevents this decline. An exercise regime of between 15-20 minutes per day will be beneficial with hypothyroidism. This exercise needs to be strenuous enough to raise the heartbeat, an exercise such as walking, swimming, running and cycling.

In conclusion, to combat hypothyroidism, it is best not to consume foods high in goitrogens especially raw but to increase foods high in iodine in the diet, to exercise daily for 20 minutes, to supplement the diet with multiminerals and multivitamins, B complex, vitamin C, manganese, tyrosine, kelp and iodine and to check whether sensitivity to chemicals are causing hypothyroidism. Some Chinese herbs may also help.

The following supplements may help if you are suffering from Hypothyroidism.

B vitamins complex

Manganese

Multivitamin and multiminerals

Vitamin C

Tyrosine

Kelp

Iodine

Stewart Hare C.H.Ed Dip NutTh

Click Here To Read More Hypothyroidism Articles Like This One On My Blog

It was almost 3 years ago that I returned to Japan for what would be my second stint exploring one of the countries of my ancestry. Like many before me I had taken to teaching English to finance my adventures. I was young, optimistic, gainfully employed and as carefree as a globally aware person can be these days. It was surprisingly sudden when I found myself unable or even desiring to leave my tiny bachelor apartment.

I had caught a wicked case of the traveling blues.

It was somewhere near the four-month mark of my yearlong adventure living and exploring abroad and I had been struck down by a serious and crippling bout of travelers depression, or what Ive termed the traveling blues. It was and is by no means an unfamiliar phenomenon to those living overseas away from their family, friends and familiar cultural accoutrements. Loneliness, lethargy and garden variety homesickness have stricken down many a friend afar and innumerable others out there for whom I have considerable sympathy. Its not altogether unlike missing mom and dad while away at summer camp. Resolving it, however, usually requires a little more than a call home on the pay phone down the road.

Finding oneself amidst a spell of depression while traveling abroad is not a terminal condition. It isnt something you have to simply swallow and stoically accept. Dont pack up the bags and start fishing around for the other half of that return ticket just yet. There are plenty of different ways solo adventurers abroad can take action against those traveling blues.

1. A health and diet makeover

If youre down in the dumps one thing to look at is your diet and lifestyle. When was the last time you had something that wasnt deep fried, cooked on a stick, or smothered in some heavenly sauce that is so rich it can only be laced with heavy metals? Or gone for a walk for that matter?

Making a small commitment to eat healthy and exercise even moderately can do wonders for improving how you feel both physically and mentally. After a day of teaching I came to realize that going for a half-hour run instead of drinking a couple beers and eating something I bought at the convenience store made all the difference in the world to how I was feeling about my work day and my time abroad.

2. Pursuing pastimes

Theres a reason why you cant shake that alienated, stranger in a strange land feeling. A reason why it seems so arduous finding common ground to share with those in your temporarily adopted homeland. Have you taken up any new interests since your airplane hit the tarmac?

Trawling the depths of a mild depression in Japan I eventually realized that if I was to start feeling differently about my whole travel experience I was going to have to embrace some new strategies. One of these was to get a new pastime. By taking up the odd, then regular, game of Frisbee golf I found myself getting out of doors more, meeting new people and having something new to learn and focus my energies on.

3. Learning to talk the talk

It goes with out saying that if youre living in a country where they speak a different language from your own that you wont get very far in your travel experience if you dont learn at least a few words of the local tongue. Around the same time I took up Frisbee golf I started attending language classes at the local community centre. Doing so improved my ability to converse with questionable strangers at local drinking establishments. It also gave me a tremendous feeling of empowerment and accomplishment. Dusting off the language workbook can help safeguard against more than just getting lost.

4. Blogging away the blues

Unless youve been in some inaccessible mountain hideaway for the last few years youve probably heard of blogging. A blog is a website where entries are made in journal style and displayed in a reverse chronological order. Your blog can contain text, pictures and even sound. Visitors to your blog can often write comments in response to each journal entry.

A blog is a way to share what youre seeing, feeling and experiencing (except perhaps, for that one particular evening last month) with friends and loved ones back home. I started keeping one in the last half of my year abroad. Keeping a journal not only gives you an outlet for your thoughts it also helps to provide a degree of detachment from depressive feelings. A small case of the blues viewed against the backdrop of your overall experience can really aid your perspective.

5. Try a little technology

Even though youre thousands of miles from home youre no doubt within a stones throw of a computer and the Internet. Internet radio, VoIP (voice over IP a.k.a. Internet telephone) and online videos sites like YouTube are just a few of the different modes at your disposal to reconnect with places, people and spaces you might be missing. I used to tune in to my national radio on the Internet and keep it on while I was cooking dinner in the evening. Id occasionally chat with friends over chat software and doing every once and a while definitely helped to soothe my homesick pangs.

6. Seeking professional help dot com

If all else fails you can always seek professional therapy and counsel for how youre feeling. There are numerous therapists that can be accessed online. These online therapists are able to correspond with you by phone, live chat over the Internet, or by email. This is probably a last resort for most but something to consider before you cash in your chips and call it quits.

The traveling blues is something that can often strike without warning while youre abroad. Recognizing both its roots and how you can take steps to alleviate it can mean the difference between an amazing travel experience and a year that youd rather not remember.

One last parting bit of advice that I stumbled across. In the words of some wise, unknown soul:

Ten rules for getting rid of the blues: Go out and do something for someone else repeat it nine times.

Matt Cameron is an intensely personal growth and development-oriented writer and blogger. He maintains a blog at EverydayChange.com where he writes on a variety of topics related to personal development, creativity, motivation, health and more.

Some things in life are free. Car insurance is not one of those things, and it can be rather darn expensive. Here are some ideas on how to save money on car insurance.

Depending upon what state you live in, having car insurance may not only be a smart way to protect your car, it may also be the law. Certain states require that drivers carry insurance on their vehicle, and for good reason. Car repairs can be very expensive, and most people do not have a few thousand dollars set aside just in case of an accident.

Since car insurance is something we need to spend to money on, we should try to at least save some money while we're doing it, right?

Here are a few tips to help you save some money on your car insurance bill.

1. Get quotes from more than 1 company. You are severely limiting the money you might save by signing up with the first company you get a quote from.

2. See if your employer has any special relationships that might entitle you to cheaper insurance. Some companies that are only available to groups have incredibly attractive rates and can save you a lot of money.

3. Some companies offer percentage discounts for a good driving record, good grades in school, and defensive driving courses. A defensive driving course might cost you a few hundred bucks, but it might you save you multiples of that over the next few years. Check with the insurance company to see which programs qualify for this discount.

4. Make sure your motor vehicle record doesn't have any wrong information. Identity thieves have figured out that it is not too difficult to get their moving violations on someone else's record.

5. Carrying a higher deductible, for example $1000 instead of $500, can lead to lower rates. If you are not prone to having accidents, a higher deductible might be a good choice for you.

6. If you have a teenage driver, consider having them get their own policy. At least get quotes to compare whether they are adding unnecessary expense to your rates.

7. Move to a rural area. This is probably not a viable option, but car insurance does vary heavily by area and state. More densely populated areas oftentimes have much higher rates than rural areas.

8. If your vehicle is completely paid for, you may only need to carry a minimal amount of insurance. Check with your insurance company and state laws to see if you're required to carry coverage such as liability, collision, or comprehensive coverage.

9. Some car insurance companies will give a discount if you have an alarm or theft-deterrent device installed. If your car doesn't have one already, consider getting one.

There you have it. A few free tips on how to save money on your car insurance. Some may work for you and some may not, but you won't know that you're getting the best rate unless try to implement some of these tips. Good luck in reducing your car insurance bill!

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Oil price manipulation being used in a Trade War against the US and it is a direct attack on the middle class in America. Not long ago I watched the Iran-Nigeria-Venezeula power play to agree to limit supply amongst them in order to affect the United States. Each agreed to limit supply without the full assistance of OPEC; it turned out to be a mistake, but it was aimed at attacking the US.

Today we trade billions of dollars with Venezuela and it seems on one hand we are friends, but on the other, Hugo Chavez is spiteful, vindictive and secretly plotting our demise. Even so, Venezuela itself has over promised the people, communist nations generally do. Their nationalizing of industries has thrown a stone into the loop and caused huge inefficiencies, which maybe insurmountable and as the natives become restless, Chavez will have to tighten his grip on the populous. It is the nature of "loved and respected" to "feared and respected" Machiavellian rule.

The oil prices in the US are high, but they are balanced by alternative energies, so there is a deal-breaker price. Some are worried about OPEC trading in Euro, I am not; I think it would be to their folly and only temporarily hurt consumers in the US, I do not side with the economic reports or threats if we take out Iran on the switching to Euros. The game is so much bigger than that.

Still Hugo Chavez is doing all he can to disrupt the United State's economy and we need to consider these issues, before siding with the liberal agenda, which supports this man in our own country in my opinion, think on it.

L. Winslow is an Economic Advisor to the Online Think Tank, a Futurist and retired entrepreneur http://www.worldthinktank.net . Currently he is planning a bicycle ride across the US to raise money for charity and is sponsored by http://www.Calling-Plans.com and all the proceeds will go to various charities who sign up.

The wind in the Western Peloponnisos during the summer months is predominately from the NW. It gets up around noon and dies down in the evening. As you progress further south the wind is more from the W - SW. The winter months from October to April sees winds predominately from the SE.

The coast of the Western Peloponnisos is in the most part high, rugged mountains, still often snow capped in the spring. The two principal ranges, Taiyetos and Parnon, run south ending at the capes of Matapan and Malea respectively.

Peloponnisos was originally an island but great geological upheavals united with the mainland. A later retreat by the sea formed the Isthmus of Corinth which in turn was cut in the 19th century to make the Corinth canal and made Peloponnisos an island again.

Katakolon. Go bow or stern to the quay either side of the central quay or alongside the quay itself. There is good shelter, the best being found to the south of the quay. Water is available on the quay and fuel can be delivered from the town. Most provisions are available but better shopping can be found at Pirgos. There are plenty of tavernas to choose from. This is the best place to leave a yacht and go to Olympia, about 25 miles away. Further to the south is Kiparissia. There is little shelter from winds from the NW-W and Kiparissia should be avoided in theses conditions. Go bow or stern to the quayed section of the breakwater or anchor off. There is water from the taverna near the quay and fuel can be obtained in the town. All provisions can be obtained here and there are waterfront tavernas and more can be found in the town. The town and the surrounding countryside are most attractive and Kiparissia is well worth a visit if conditions allow.

Thirty two miles to the west of Kiparissia lie the islands of Arpia and Stamfani. There is a bay on the south side of Arpia where yachts can anchor and water is available from wells ashore. Yachts should not visit or remain in the waters around these islands in any kind of unsettled weather, as seas are very turbulent.

Marathoupolis is on the mainland. It is a small harbour, unsuitable for yachts above 10m. Entry is not advised in strong NW winds and even moderate winds from this direction cause swell and make the entrance difficult. Yachts that do get in should go bows to the mole but it is likely to be crowded with fishing boat. Water and limited provisions can be found in the village. The view across to Nisos Proti is very attractive and almost worth the visit alone.

Pilos lies further to the south. There is a purpose built yacht marina here with lazy lines. Water is available in the marina or on the main pier. Fuel can be delivered to the pier and the marina. All provisions can be obtained and there is a good choice of tavernas both around the marina and in the town. Pilos was constructed by the French following the battle of Navarinon which saw the defeat and destruction of Turkish sea power.

5 miles to the south of Pilos is Methoni. Yachts can anchor of with good holding in mud or sand. There is good shelter from winds from the NW. Water is available on the breakwater. Most provisions and fuel ca be obtained in there village and there are tavernas both on the beach and in the town. A large Venetian fort guards the harbour and in Venetian times Methoni was renowned for its wine and pork. The hinterland is still intensively cultivated.

To the east is Finakounda. Yacht can go bow to the end of the breakwater or anchor off. Provisions can be obtained ashore and there are numerous tavernas catering in some part to the watersports centre. The setting of the village is wonderful, built around the beach and under the rocky crop.

It is possible for a yacht to anchor in the harbour at Koroni. The bottom is a mix of mud, sand and weed with the odd large boulder. Not everywhere provides good holding. Water is not readily available but it may be possible to get a delivery by tanker. There is good shopping and tavernas in the town. Several off the tavernas specialise in charcoal grilled octopus. The town itself is attractive, built on a steep slope and partially within the Venetian fort.

Petalidhion is a small, attractive bay in the NW of the gulf of Messiniakos. There is good shelter except with winds from the NE or E. Fuel, water and most provisions are available in the village, which itself is attractive, set on the edge of the sandy beach.

Kalamata harbour provides excellent all round shelter. Yachts can go alongside the western quay or use the adjacent marina. Water and fuel are readily available on the quay. There is excellent shopping for all provisions with a supermarket within easy walking distance. There are numerous tavernas of a high quality, look out for fresh fish and char grilled octopus.

The large bay of Kitrou provides good shelter from the prevailing southerly winds. Yachts can anchor off the beach where convenient. The slopes around the bay are cultivated with olives and citrus trees. With the whitewashed villas dotted between them this is a very attractive spot. There are a few tavernas ashore but little else in the way of facilities.

Limeni is a large bay approximately 20 miles south of Kitrou. Although it is open to the west yachts will generally have no problems finding shelter here during the summer months. Yachts have a choice of two anchorages at Karavostasi in the NE of the bay or in the south at Limeni. There are tavernas ashore serving simple fare and the bays setting is very attractive and well worth a visit.

Sail around the headland of Matapan and you arrive in the gulf of Lakonikos. Asomato and Vathi are the first two inlets and are suitable anchorages in calm weather. Better shelter is to be found a little further north at Kayio. With winds from the W-SW yachts should anchor in the cove in the south of the bay. The holding is not good in hard sand with weed and rocks and care must be taken. There are alternative anchorages in the east and north of the bay and wind direction will dictate which is the most suitable. Facilities are limited, water is available and there are a few tavernas. It is sometimes possible to obtain fresh fruit and vegetables from a van that calls at the bay.

Yithion lies in the NW corner of the gulf. Yachts can go bow or stern to the mole where there is good holding in mud. Water can be found on the quay and fuel can be delivered. All provisions can be obtained in the town and there are some good fish restaurants here.

Plitra lies half way down the eastern side of the gulf. Yachts can go bow or stern to the outer end of the mole. Holding is not great on the rocky bottom and a trip line should be used on the anchor. Shelter is good in all but southerlies. Water may be available from local sources but the nearest provisions are in a village some 4km away. There are though several tavernas around the shore. The sandy beaches are good and this is a good place for snorkelling.

The island of Kithera and Andikathera lie to the SW of the gulf and make up an island bridge between the Peloponnisos and Crete further to the south. Pelagia is the ferry port for the island. Winds from the NE make the harbour untenable. Kapsali is on the south coast of Kithera. Yachts should go to the western cove and go stern to or alongside the outer half of the quay. Seek the permission of the port police to berth here. The bottom is a mix of sand rock and weed and once the anchor is in provides reasonable holding. Water is available but limited provisions can be obtained around the harbour with more available in the chora. The harbour setting, the chora and the fort all combine to make this an attractive place to visit.

Potamou, the small harbour on Andikathera is unsafe in all but calm weather and most yachts avoid the place.

Ken Jones runs a Sailing Site. More info on Yacht Charter here Other Marine Services in Greece here.