The Story of Ed Hardy

Runaway Love Ch.3 (A Nick Jonas love story)

2010-06-11T06:34:00.001-07:00

HEY! So sorry I didn't post yesterday! I was just about to post and then my internet died on me! I was very upset. I feel the start of this episode is....exciting, you could say? : ) CRAZY STORM GOING ON AT THE MOMENT! SCARY! I woke up the next morning and stretched, realizing I wasn't in the sand, I was in a bed, and covers where over me, I shot up and looked around, I was in a hotel room, what the hell? I got up and saw my backpack on the floor, I went and brushed my hair and brushed my teeth real fast and stuffed the stuff in my backpack, I had packed clothes for today, but I didn't feel like changing, so I stayed in the same clothes, the hotel room was nice, really nice, looked like a Vila, and I was in a bedroom, but I knew it was a hotel cause I had looked out the window, I opened the door and saw a living room and a kitchen right next to it, this was a really nice hotel, but how did I get here? I heard the TV coming from the other room, and as I walked closer I saw 4 people sitting on the couch, 3 men and a woman, 2 of the men looked younger then the man, but I couldn't really see there faces, I hurried to the door and opened it, turning my back to the hallway so I could make sure I closed the door without being heard, right as I turned around, I bumped into something, or should I say someone, I started to fall backwards but the person caught me in there arms, I looked up and saw that Nick Jonas, was the one I had bumped into, the one who was holding me in his arms ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Spu6lE24_U0&hl=en

The Truth: Google Search Story

2010-06-09T20:17:00.001-07:00

It knows when you lie.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7zlcwi9CmI&hl=en

50 Cent Refuse 2 Die VTS Video

2010-06-08T10:51:00.001-07:00

50 Cent Refuse 2 Die - "the unauthorized Biography,, a Documentary about the life of the rapper 50 cent. Feature Post Produced @ VIRTUAL TRIBAL MEDIA Studios Producer/Motion Graphic Artist LiRoN Schwartz

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lc50gKbafJ4&hl=en

Christian Audigier Champagne

2010-06-07T09:34:00.001-07:00

Christian Audigier launched his Premier Cru and Rose Champagne July 1 at world-famous Movida nightclub in London. In a strange London twist worthy of a Guy RItchie movie, the delivery truck carrying all the Champagne for the night was hijacked 3 hours before the launch. They managed to round up about 50 of the beautiful tattooed bottles designed by art director/photographer Barry Sutton to pull off the launch and with celebrities Peter Andre and Bianca Gascoigne in attendance the party went off without a hitch. Nearly every newspaper in the UK, wine blogs, celebrity and entertainment sites carried the story, scoring another PR coup for the designer who it is reported will be purchasing Michael Jackson's Neverland and was renting MJ his mega mansion for $100000/month. Audigier is reportedly working with his pal Madonna on a new clothing line tentatively called Material Girl. For more info visit: www.thecoolwine.com.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twoHL1-aiYk&hl=en

Ed Hardy designer Christian Audigier talks to Fashion News Live at LA Fashion Week Spring '09

2010-06-05T16:00:00.001-07:00

Ed Hardy and American Lord designer Christian Audigier talks about his brand and his Spring 2009 lines with Rocco G of Fashion News Live during LA Fashion Week.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7R82Wgi73ZY&hl=en

The FUBU story PT2 " Pdiddy came to us when starting Sean John"

2010-06-04T05:17:00.001-07:00

In this episode. Keith Perrin Co- Founder of Fubu Talks about How Pdiddy came to him about advice on starting Sean John. The sacrafice he and his partners made, how their clothes was the classic hiphop fashion . As well as how they manage to influence Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren to go Urban.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trn_pjFe4Tw&hl=en

Discounted But Authentic Coach Bags and Purses For Stylish Women

2010-06-02T10:34:00.001-07:00

A purse is not just an object to carry the stuff in, it's an expression of current fashion trends and a must have accessory! There are many different materials and fabrics that the designers use, but leather is the one that they use the most right after the printed and soft fabrics. It is needless to say that leather is among the most expensive materials and that's what makes the designer purses so pricey.

There are currently many designer brands that produce fancy and modern purse collections, but there are always those who will try to sell you their cheap replicas of the authentic work. Now days, the target of those fake companies are usually Coach's signature purses, so in case you see that a store is selling discounted authentic Coach purses, be sure to check if those are indeed the real thing before you purchase anything.

A huge company like Coach does give discounts from time to time, but even so you will almost never find a discounted authentic Coach purse below $100 if you are not extremely lucky or looking for their older products. Identifying the fakes isn't that hard and if you have ever bought a real Coach purse you would be able to tell the difference pretty quickly, but that's another story. Since you can never be a hundred percent sure if your new discounted authentic Coach purse is genuine or not, I suggest you only buy stuff from well known sites or dealers. We are all aware that it's not easy for everyone to buy expensive purses, but Coach's wholesales and great discounts can make the wishes of some come true! Coach produces all kinds of outlet including wallets and shoes, but every product they release is unique and of highest quality, so the money you spend is never wasted, as their products last for years.

We have a big collection of authentic coach purses We also have juicy couture handbags

Materialism - How Much is Enough?

2010-06-01T06:51:00.001-07:00

How materialistic our children have become never ceases to amaze me. Did you ever look at what our children want and desire and how much these things cost? Ed Hardy is making a killing marketing to our kids and so is Michael Jordan with his never ending barrage of new-release Air Jordans. How much is enough? What happened to the days of $2.95 Converses and $5 Levi Jeans? No wonder our country is in the mess it is.

Look. Prosperity is a great thing and to be sour grapes over not being able to buy your kids all the things they want is understandable. Ed Hardy and other marketers have every right in this great country to pursue success and happiness. The problem is that these products---$300 jeans, $200 sneakers, etc.---are being marketed in a way that makes our children believe they are necessities rather than superfluities. Sure, if you are in that upper one percent of wage earners who can afford all these niceties of clothing and other ornamental accessories, more power to you. But what about the struggling middle class family-if there is such a thing anymore as middle class-who cannot afford these things, but because of the intense social peer pressures, occasionally indulges their children with these things? For the most part, we are all guilty of this at one time or another.

Peer pressure. I know I feel it all the time. In one respect, this pressure pushes me to work harder to be able to provide such niceties; however, sometimes I wonder at how foolish I am to even think like this. "Must I add to this already vexing problem?" I ask myself.

Social morals are definitely declining and morals are at an all time low. One does not have to conduct a rigorous statistical study to evidence this. So is there any hope that we can reverse this trend? We need to educate our children better and at an ever earlier age as kids are already in possession of cell phones before the teen years. We need to get back to the basics and teach them such things as the "Guns and Butter Theory." Yes, guns are assets like stocks, bonds, real property, and precious metals. Let's teach them to invest some of their wants in the guns so that later on they can get as much butter as they want-which at such time, when they have hopefully become more sensible, they realize they do not need as much butter as previously thought.

By doing this, we teach our kids to invest and this in turn helps spur markets and other beneficial initiatives. Maybe then we can start repairing some of the multifarious problems that plague our once great nation. Otherwise, we may as well become content to die as part of the silent majority, who stands by and does nothing while injustices perpetrate our waning society. What a pity!

See more at Cool Math Site and Cool Math Ebooks

Joe is a prolific writer of self-help and educational material and an award-winning former teacher of both college and high school mathematics. Under the penname, JC Page, Joe authored Arithmetic Magic, the little classic on the ABC's of arithmetic. Joe is also author of the charming self-help ebook, Making a Good Impression Every Time: The Secret to Instant Popularity; the original collection of poetry, Poems for the Mathematically Insecure, and the short but highly effective fraction troubleshooter Fractions for the Faint of Heart. The diverse genre of his writings (novel, short story, essay, script, and poetry)-particularly in regard to its educational flavor- continues to captivate readers and to earn him recognition.

Joe propagates his teaching philosophy through his articles and books and is dedicated to helping educate children living in impoverished countries. Toward this end, he donates a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every ebook. For more information go to http://www.mathbyjoe.com

Sexual Supplements and a 'Trip-Around-the-World'

2010-05-29T07:34:00.001-07:00

"Would you believe in a love at first sight?
Yes I'm certain that it happens all the time.
What do you see when you turn out the light?
I can't tell you, but I know it's mine.
Oh, I get by with a little help from my friends"

So goes the old song about your little friend. However, before you turn on the light, you would do right by yourself if you kept a few little friends in the form of sexual stimulants by the bedside table with a glass of water. However, before you get into modern pharmaceutical options, let's look at some more traditional ingredients of sexual stimulants.

What Goes Into Making Sexual Supplements?
From Indonesia and Malaysia, comes Eurycoma longifolia, or Tongat Ali, as it is also known. This little evergreen is reputed for its testosterone-increasing effect. Also favored by body builders, this little wonder was co-patented by the Malaysian Government and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in December 2003, after extensive research on the isolated bioactive fraction extract.

Epimedium is known by many sobriquets, such as 'rowdy lamb herb,' 'bishop's hat,' 'fairy wings,' and 'horny goat weed.' Obviously, as legend goes, it was discovered by a Chinese goat herder who noticed his goats getting randy after eating this weed. The active ingredient in Epimedium is Icariin and ranges in potency from 5% extracts to 60%.

In certain parts of the US, Tribulus terrestris is considered an invasive species of weed, and we like it for just that. First publicly used by Jeffery Peterman in the 1970s, Tribulus terrestris is known to increase testosterone levels, build muscle and increase sexual drive. It has been used for the same purpose by traditional Chinese medicine, Indian ayurveda and even the unani systems of medicine.

The next stop is 'Peruvian ginseng,' a.k.a. Lepidium meyenii or maca. Found native in the Andes mountain ranges of Bolivia and Peru, it is a root vegetable that grows well only in high-altitude, cold climates. This little plant remained secret for about 2,000 years until the Spanish invaded the area. They used this herb as currency as well. No wonder, since it has been tested to show that it increases semen production and libido and does not affect hormonal balance.

Last but not the least is Ginkgo Biloba, or Maidenhair tree. This hardy tree hit fame when six of the variety managed to survive the atomic blast at Hiroshima, some 1000 meters from the epicenter. What's more, immediately afterwards the trees put out buds. No wonder, the leaves of this 'oldest tree known to man' can fix impotence and help the body develop and maintain an erection.

If you are looking for a safe, herbal sexual supplements that can be privately ordered from an online store; visit firminite.com.

To find out more about the best penis enlargement technique or natural sex supplements go to http://www.firminite.com

Who Celebrities Wear Ed Hardy Fashion by Christian Audigier

2010-05-27T23:34:00.001-07:00

See Which Fabolous Stars are Wearing Ed Hardy by Christian Audigier Designs. Some Christian Audigier Celebrity Fans are Britney, Madonna, Jessica Alba, Silver Stalone, Shakira, Missy Elliot, Paris Hilton, Michael Jackson and the List get Bigger!. What you are waiting for to Wear what celebrities Wear?. Get out the Celebrity Inside U. We carry 100% Brand Name Apparel, Ed Hardy by Christian Audigier Shirts, Pants, Fragrances, Caps, Shoes and More. VISIT US @ www.rabadelimports.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Sx9jb1yPI4&hl=en

Justin Bieber Love Story:Connected Episode 1

2010-05-25T03:17:00.001-07:00

I Know i said i do it after WAN Series but The Truth is It Be On Hold For a While Because I Need To Convert A Video to it. So I Don't Know when i be uploading it. Anyway On with the Story. - ~Sunday Morning~ I wake up in the morning stretching my arms out and yawning. Man it's a big day ahead of me tomorrow. I'm Moving Schools. Finally Now i won't live my life as Hell. I Can't wait to Be in a new school especially with my BFF Jane. She Lives Across the Street with Me. I Wonder if she's in bed or awake. Eeh oh well. I Got up and brush my teeth. after brushing i went downstairs and see breakfast on my plate. - Valerie:"Good Morning,Mom." i greet her with a tone of voice Mom:"Good Morning val." Valerie:"where's dad?" Mom:"Still Sleeping." Valerie:"ahh." i look at my plate and see yummy waffles and im starving. Now Yum! ~After Breakfast~ I Went Back up into my room and shut the door. I pick up the brush,look in the mirror. and brush my hair. my hair is soft and straight, i love the natural thing about it. After a few minutes. the phone start's ringing. - Valerie:picks up "Hello?" Trilina:"What up Cuz?" Valerie:"OMG. Tri?" Trilina:"Hey!" Valerie:"I Never Seen You Since Last Month." Trilina:"Here i Am now!" Valerie:"Ahh." Trilina:"Ahh." Valerie:"So Guess What Now?" Trilina:"What?" she ask in response Valerie:"I'm an 8th Grader Now and I'm Moving to Middle School." Trilina:"Cool. Guess What?" Valerie:"What?" Trilina:"I'm a 9th Grader Now and I'm Moving to High School!" Valerie ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0dMeAEzj1g&hl=en

Black and White - This Season's Hottest Duo

2010-05-22T20:17:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for the hottest trend this season, look no further: it's right here in black and white. This classic duo teams up two of the fashion world's favorite shades. While this may not be the newest combination on the block, time has not affected its stylish results. If you work this classic duo right, you can achieve this season's newest red hot look! Here's a few tips on how to look hot this summer with the power of black and white.

The key to pulling off any trend like a true fashionista is to know your body. Learn to play up your assets and downplay your problem areas. Remember to wear black in your problem areas and wear white in the areas you want to highlight. White reflects light so wherever you wear it you will bring attention. For instance if you are top heavy, don't wear a white collared shirt with black pants because this will draw attention upward. Instead opt to go with a black v-neck top with white pants. This will distract people from looking at your problem area. Instead they'll be paying attention to your long legs.

The bold stripe is the big story this season. Whether you're a committed prep or a fashionista hot on the trail of the latest looks, you'll love this twist on black and white. Here's a tip on how to wear it. If you are looking to add a few pounds to a small frame horizontal stripes, are for you. In most cases go with vertical stripes instead of horizontal. Vertical stripes create the optical illusion that you are slimmer and taller. I'm 5'1 so I love vertical stripe pants because it makes my legs appear longer. This is also a great trick for slimming out thighs and elongated your torso.

Black and white are great colors for dressing monochomatically. Dressing monochomatically is basically wearing one color from head to toe. Monochromatic dressing is the favorite trick of many fashion editors, designers, and stylists. It makes everybody look slimmer and taller instantly. Wearing one color also creates that vertical line illusion. For example try wearing the ever so popular white suit and accent it with black accessories. Let accessories add color to your outfit.

The black and white combo is one trend that I love. It's a classic and it looks great on everyone. It can be mod, punk, preppy, and ladylike depending on how you wear it. Even when this trend passes you can easily mix and match it with other clothes within your wardrobe.

Sherita Leslie is a celebrity stylist and beauty expert based in Nashville,TN. For more beauty and fashion tips visit her website http://www.sheritaleslie.com

Prince Jackson Talks April 27, 2009

2010-05-21T08:34:00.001-07:00

On April 27, 2009 Prince was going to the Ed Hardy store a reporter asked "How are you Michael?" MJ said " I'm Fine thank you" and you can hear Prince in the backround at 0:05 say " Fine".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZSVolb0ehk&hl=en

Learning Martial Arts From DVDs and Books - Guidelines For Using Training Resources

2010-05-20T03:00:00.001-07:00

We live in great times, particularly if we are "informationaholics". The proliferation of knowledge and its' accessibility has grown exponentially with the increase in disposable income, ease of travel, the development of the internet and the breaking down of the old establishment style of publishing through very conservative corporations. This has resulted in an explosion of creative thought, innovation and sharing of knowledge not only in learning martial arts but in all areas of knowledge.

As a veteran martial artist I have witnessed a change from only having a limited number of systems to learn, almost all based on Japanese karate and Judo, to now where not only do we have access to martial arts fighting systems from all over the world but also the development of completely new approaches, such as Reality Based Self Defense systems and the Mixed Martial Arts phenomenon. And while we may debate as to whether they are completely new or original, they are certainly very new in the way that they have developed and progressed into the highly sophisticated mixed martial arts fighting and self defense systems that they have become.

As mentioned above there has also been an incredible change in our ability to produce and self publish our thoughts and knowledge. In the field of martial arts this has resulted in a huge number of DVDs, books and online video sources available for learning martial arts in all disciplines of martial arts.

In response to this proliferation the diehard martial artists of the old school are still often heard to say that you cannot learn martial artsfrom books and DVDs. In my experience this opinion is far too old school and conformist in attitude and does not take into account the quality of material that is available. It also suggests a protective traditionalist view that has historically stifled innovation and progress in all areas of human knowledge.

I am, however, of the mind that that while learning from DVDs and books does not take the place of a good school and coach it is a great way to compliment and supplement your training, particularly if you are a practitioner of the modern, progressive forms of the martial arts, self defense and competition fighting systems.

As a long term martial artist from the old school and as an academic I am of the opinion that DVDs and books offer fantastic resources for learning all manner of skills. My life as a research scientist in the cutting edge discipline of molecular biology required that I learn and develop new skills and knowledge from various sources, including DVDs, books, seminars and papers that were in many cases open to interpretation and required a large degree of reworking to make them workable.

However, to utilize these resources effectively for martial arts training, or for that matter to learn any skill, we must apply and adhere to a number of guidelines:

1) It is highly recommended that a fundamental education has been undergone to learn the basic principles, techniques and concepts of the particular discipline.
2) When training in a martial arts system that requires work with a partner set up a regular training schedule with a serious training partner who has the same attitude to training - that of learning.
3) When watching the DVD or reading the book, take good notes, carefully observing the details of the technique.
4) Endeavour to get an understanding of the principles and concepts underlying the technique and its' execution.
5) Learn one move or technique at a time.
6) Train and drill the technique slowly working to develop the correct execution.
7) Where possible get an experienced practitioner or coach to observe, improve or correct the technique.
8) After a period of training the technique go back to the DVD or book and re-watch or read the details of the technique again, as we often see more a second time around and after we have been practicing the technique for a while.
9) When learning new techniques try to connect them to knowledge already acquired and train techniques and moves that flow from one to the other.
10) If the technique doesn't work, or your execution feels difficult, go back to the DVD or book and see if you can find out what it is that is wrong.
11) Be aware that some instructional material is either poorly taught or leaves many crucial details out, either intentionally or in some cases unintentionally, as the person teaching the material does not know how they actually do it, they just do.

In summary, it is certainly possible to learn martial arts and self defense techniques from DVDs and books, provided that you follow the guidelines above. However, it is highly recommended that you train in a school that teaches the discipline that you want to learn as you will have access to many more training partners and also the benefit of experienced coaches who can observe and correct your technique so that you learn faster. Indeed if you reflect on the guidelines above they correspond to benefits that a good school or coach will provide when learning martial arts.

For a great in-depth look at gap bridging strategies, that will compliment your learning in all martial arts fighting systems, check out my very comprehensive resource "Mastering the Danger Zone" DVD series which is packed full of concepts and techniques for set ups and "Bridging the Gap" in Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts fighting and the street self defense situation that will put you way ahead of the game when learning mixed martial arts and Muay Thai. Grab your free video and audio clips here at http://www.UltimateFightingSystems.com.

In addition I often discuss these strategies together with other fight game and self defense tactics in my blog at http://www.UltimateFightingSystems.com/blog that will help you develop your knowledge and experience when learning martial arts and Muay Thai or self defense.

10 Designer Clothing Items You Secretly Want

2010-05-18T14:00:00.001-07:00

If you're always at the cutting edge of style, then you'll know what to wear when, and which colours, and designers are in fashion. If not then you might not know what all the fuss is about designer clothing, and why you need it.

Here's what you need to know

1. A designer handbag can be bought because it is fashionable or stylish. If you want something quality that will last, and represent value for money over many years, then perhaps a muted colour or design will be more appropriate than a handbag that might be highly fashionable now, but will look silly in a year's time.

2. The same goes for designer shoes too. You might want a pair of shoes for wearing on special occasions, or some that you'll wear everyday. Only you can decide which ones will represent the best value for money, and be worn the most.

3. Designer glasses are an obvious choice, and if you wear your glasses all the time, then why not splash out on a pair of comfy frames from your favourite designer, or that really suite your personality?

4. Designer sunglasses are always popular, and if you can't quite afford the celebrity clothes why not wear the same sunglasses that they wear? Perhaps you might even be thought of as a celeb yourself? Don't forget that you can wear them all year round, so they're not just for summer.

5. A stylish designer dress can be a shred investment. You might choose one that you know you'll wear often, or one that like the shoes, might only be worn on special occasions. Whichever you choose, you're sure to feel a million dollars when you wear it.

6. Maybe there's a certain designer who's clothes just fit you well, and really suit you. You might think that it's worth the expense to have well fitting clothes that look good. Maybe you'll even wear them for work, so that you can look good during the day as well as when out for the evening.

7. Another obvious designer piece is a nice watch. Perhaps you're favourite designer brand does watches, and you want to show your allegiance with a nice watch.

8. Designer jewellery such as earrings, bracelets and necklaces are also a nice and discreet way to make a change form the mass produced and high street brands that everybody wears. You might want a logo, or a colour scheme or another design that isn't so obvious to those who aren't as well up on their designers as you are.

9. Other designer accessories you might choose to go with your clothing might include hair clips luggage or key rings. Perhaps you haven't yet found the perfect dress, shoes or handbag, or don't want to blow your entire budget on one piece. Why not see if you can get more for your money with lots of smaller items?

10. Designer swimwear is also a great idea, especially if you a big fan of beach holidays, or just lounging by the pool. Why not combine a nice designer bikini with a pair of designer sunglasses and see if people will think you're the celeb next time you're on holiday?!

Now you know more about designer items, and what you want and what's right for you, perhaps now is the time to get the designer swimwear, handbag or shoes that you really want.

Discover a wide range of Designer Swimwear as well as Men's Swimwear from all the leading brands, including Ed Hardy, Beach Bunny, Ella Moss, Melissa Odabash and more, at BikiniBeachStar.com today. You'll be glad you did.

Behind the scenes Fashion Chateau

2010-05-17T10:17:00.001-07:00

Shop at www.FashionChateau.com!!!! Why Shop with Fashion Chateau? First Order Discount Considering your first order with us? Please use discount code FirstOrder to get $25 off your first order over $150 100% Authentic Products Fashion Chateau is very proud to purchase all products directly from our famous designers. You will never find knock off or replica products anywhere on our shelves. Customer Testimonials To see what our valued customers have to say about us. Click Here Free Shipping Fashion Chateau provides free shipping for all domestic orders over $100. No Sales Tax There is no sales tax charged for all orders outside of California . Hassle-Free Returns Our goal is 100% satisfaction for your purchase from www.FashionChateau.com. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase you may return or exchange your merchandise within 21 days from date of purchase. Fast Exchanges In addition to our standard exchanges, www.FashionChateau.com offers a faster exchange service by phone. Our helpful customer support staff will create an invoice for your new item and you will pay for the item as a new sale. This will allow us to ship your new item immediately. When your returned item arrives at our facility, we will refund the full amount of your original purchase back to you. Price Match Guarantee We pride ourselves on being very price competitive for your online fashion shopping. Within 7 days of your purchase date, if you find a lower price on a non ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bD3r1TWLxg&hl=en

Urban Illuminati Clothes

2010-05-16T07:00:00.001-07:00

The satanic layout of many US cities that also have specific architecture in their buildings and structures drawn in negative demonic entities that have a major effect on the city and it's people(crime rate,etc). Now you also have this clothing that is being worn that attracts demons to the ones who where it. Everyone who believes in The Most High or God also prays and worships him. So it would be foolish to think that those who worship Satan don't do the same thing. The difference is that there are more people worshiping Satan than those worshiping The Most High. Believe it or not, but we are always in the midst of spiritual warfare. Wake up my brothers and sisters. The time is upon us. SHALOM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hZFMCVkzGM&hl=en

Ed Hardy Wholesale Jeans Handbags Jewlery

2010-05-14T14:51:00.001-07:00

SnazzyCouture.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hFxG30ZfVw&hl=en

Charlie Nelson and His Little Red Book of Self Defense Authentic World War II Close Combat Heritage

2010-05-12T20:51:00.001-07:00

Today it seems like there's a martial arts school on every block and many of them are of dubious quality. Most of the students are children, and they're taught some form of combat sport. Some schools offer self defense training or promise a good workout, but few teach real combat martial arts. There was a time though when people did learn the practical skills they needed to survive a real street fight. Among the few instructors who truly understood combat martial arts and self defense was Charlie Nelson who took what he learned during World War II, and used it prepare the average citizen for hand to hand combat.

Charlie Nelson's story begins in upstate New York where he grew up in a Catholic orphanage, and he joined the United States Marine Corp at the age of 19. While with the Marines he would receive the best close combat education possible. Before any close combat training, Charlie was good boxer. The first chance he had he joined Marine boxing team. This is when he learned from Colonel Anthony Drexel Biddle who had trained Marines in hand to hand combat for World War I. Biddle, and was teaching FBI agents at Quantico at the time.

As fate would have it, while at Quantico, Nelson would bunk with John Styers an expert in blade combat who would later author Cold Steel an excellent book on close combat with weapons. It was probably here that Nelson first learned the truth about self defense that would shape his life long view on combat; a street fight is completely different animal than a sports match.

Colonel Biddle wouldn't be Nelson's only teacher while in the Marines though. He would train with Sergeant Patrick Kelly who had served with the Fourth Marines stationed in China. Kelly had trained under Dermott O'Neill who also served in the city of Shanghai which at the time had the well earned reputation as the most violent city in the world. The Marines along with troops and police officers from many other nations assigned to the international city regularly battled violent street gangs and other criminals as they tried to maintain law and order as well prevent insurgences from taking the city. It was here the Marines would learn many important lessons from William Ewart Fairbairn and the Shanghai police department.

Even though Nelson wouldn't meet Fairbairn directly, Fairbairn had a profound influence on how Nelson would learn to fight. During Fairbairn's time as a police officer in Shanghai, he made an extensive study of many Asian martial arts in an effort to create a simple and effective combat martial arts system. He drew heavily on his Judo and Jujutsu experience, and stripped away any unnecessary ritual and movement, revealing a simple system for combat called Defendu. In addition to hand to hand combat training he also taught effective shooting and edged weapons methods (the Fairbairn fighting knife). He would later train spies and commandos in WWII. Nelson would draw on all of his influences in order to create his system for self defense, but he always gave credit to his mentors.

After serving honorably in WWII which included taking part in the battle of Guadalcanal with the First Marine Division Nelson retuned to New York and setup the "Charlie Nelson's School of Self Defense Combat Jujitsu and Karate." At the second floor school on West 72 Street in New York City the students would learn how to street fight, and Nelson abandoned traditional martial arts uniforms in favor of street clothes because he said that what people really wore when they fought. Every move he taught could be used by anyone regardless of size or strength, and all his training scenarios were grounded in reality based of his research into actual crimes. He taught people how to "fight not play games".

Charles Nelson like some many others of his generation is no longer with us, but his work lives on with us in The Red Manual. The book is filled with useful techniques that will work against even the most violent assaults. Nelson makes martial arts practical to for the average citizen and teaches them how to deal with attackers armed with knifes, baseball bats, and even firearms. Even experienced martial artists like former Army Ranger and police officer Carl Cestari was taken down by his dirty fighting techniques by a much older Nelson. Cestari was so impressed he would become certified in Nelson's system and include many of his techniques in his own. Unfortunately not everyone took notice of Nelson's system, but if people did the criminals would be the ones living in fear. Nelson's methods of self defense are all but forgotten.

There are a few who still teach some of the principles handed down by these for fathers of modern day self defense and reality martial arts. One such organization is The Self Defense Company. A global network of instructors dedicated to teaching the systems of proven self defense in programs that combine these valuable methods of combat with modern day systems of training.

MartialArts | Martial arts instruction | Self Defense

Lita's Closet Boutiqe & online store

2010-05-11T05:34:00.001-07:00

Boutiqe store, ed hardy clothing, ed hardy purses, gucci bags, coach shoes, coach bags, juicy couture, bikini, sunglasses, name brand clothing for less, louis vuitton bags, ed hardy jeans, name brand bags for less, Tallahassee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOxFBFl3sO4&hl=en

Metal Ink's Exclusive Interview with Radeo Suicide

2010-05-09T19:34:00.001-07:00

www.metalinkshop.com Metal Ink did a sexed-up photo shoot and interview with our 1st Maiden of the Month Radeo. The photo shoot took place in Los Angeles, CA. During the shoot, Radeo was initially dressed in Metal Ink before revealing her beautiful ink. Radeo's gorgeous tattoos are featured on a special Metal Ink by Radeo line of tees and undies. The June Maiden of the Month contest is going on now. Vote for your favorite Maiden at metalinkshop.com.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_dgs5IF0pk&hl=en

Pushin' Me Away (A Nick Jonas Love Story) Chapter 5

2010-05-08T15:00:00.001-07:00

Nick: Oh, hey Elizabeth. I'm super sorry about yesterday. I didn't mean to make you feel that bad. (whispers to her) You know, about the whole "Please be mine" thing? Elizabeth: Yeah, but it's okay because I thought about it and... Nick: (eyes widen and he smiles) And... Elizabeth: Of course I will! Nick: (Smiles and hugs her) Will that's just... (voice fades and loses thoughts by staring at her) aaa-mazingggg... Elizabeth: (blushes) Yeah... Emily: (walks out of nowhere) Hey, Liz! Hey... Nick... what's wrong with him? Elizabeth: (scoots her out of the way for a second) Uhh... one minute. Nik: What? You're not going to tell her? Elizabeth: Should I? Nick: It's all up to you, you beautiful young lady. Elizabeth: You are the sweetest! Okay, I think I should tell her. I mean, she IS my BFFl... Nick: Right. The decisions all yours, Beautiful. Elizabeth: (blushes and turns back to Emily) Um... well... Emily: He's your boyfriend, right? Elizabeth: How, how, how did you know? Emily: You mean I'm right?!?! Score! Elizabeth: Yes, but please don't tell anyone! Emily: Of course not! I won't say a word to anyone! Eliabeth: Thanks, girl. Now I have to go to stupid people math. Emily: Haha! See ya later! And don't worry, I"ll stay off of Nick! Elizabeth: Shut up! (after school...) Nick: Hey, Lizzy. Wanna come to my place. It is Friday and I was thinking that maybe we could catch a later movie tonight? Elizabeth: Sure... But I have to ask my mom. What time? Nick: Well... I guess around 9 ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZwxcraO26k&hl=en

Who Are Some Famous Ellis Island Immigrants?

2010-05-07T10:17:00.001-07:00

During the period of time when Ellis Island/the Port of New York were open and processing immigrants, millions of people from far shores entered the United States to start a new life. As would be expected, most people were everyday folks - known only to friends, family and their employers. Sort of like most people living their lives all around the world today. But also, as would be expected, a small percentage of these immigrants differentiated themselves from the teeming masses by their remarkable accomplishments on the cultural and scientific landscape.

The first famous person to enter the United States via Ellis Island is famous by accident of position. This person is the very first person to enter the country through the facility - Annie Moore. She arrived in America in 1892 and will forever be known as the first person to pass through the facility. Her fame of course is simply luck of the draw. Anyone else who was in that position would have held the same fame.

Another arrival in 1892 was not famous but had a famous son. Fritz Austerlitz was the father of dance legend Fred Astaire - made famous in several marvelous Hollywood classics like Finian's Rainbow, Royal Wedding, Funny Face, The Gay Divorcee and many others. Also arriving in 1892 were Antonius Dvorac - famous composer and Rudyard Kipling - writer and poet best known for his work The Jungle Book.

In 1897, Moses Teichman arrived. You probably do not know that name but you most definitely know him under the name Arthur Murray - of the Arthur Murray dance studios. Thanks to him, millions of people across the globe now have access to standardized teaching of many of the classic dances.

Moving on to the fitness arena, we are all familiar with the famous commercials of Angelo Siciliano - better known as Charles Atlas. Who can forget the ads of the weak man getting sand kicked in his face and then getting the Charles Atlas course to build up his muscles (and self esteem.) Angelo arrived in America in 1903. A few years after him, in 1905, Johann Weissmuller (a.k.a. Johnny Weissmuller) arrived in America. Johnny is best known as Tarzan but he was also an Olympian swimmer - having won five gold medals and one bronze medal in the 1920s.

On the lighter side, Henry (Henny) Youngman arrived in 1906. He was a famous comedian best known for his line: "Take my wife-please" a line that is still often quoted today in comedic circles. Also in 1906, a very special couple of famous Ellis Island immigrants arrived on the shores of the United States - John and Mable Ringling - famous circus owners and originators of the Ringling Brother's circus that still amuses and entertains millions every year. And lets not forget Arthur Stanley Jefferson who arrived in 1912. He is loved and remembered for his rule as Stan Laurel of the Laurel and Hardy show. In that very same year, another comedic great came through Ellis Island. This was the year Charles Chaplin arrived. Charlie Chaplin of course is still loved and admired by many for his comedic films.

Lest you think all the famous actors of that error who arrived through Ellis Island were just comedic, you must consider who arrived in 1920. During this year, two enduring actors arrived. The first is Bela Lugosi and the other is Archibald Alec Leach better known as Cary Grant.

A few other famous Ellis Island immigrants who arrived during this era include Harry Houdini in 1914, Walter Elias Disney (Walt Disney) in 1919 Albert Einstein in 1921, F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1921 and George Gershwin in 1921.

There are of course many other famous immigrants that arrived at Ellis Island but even this short list shows the impact immigrants of this era had on America and the world. And lets not forget the millions of others who - while not famous - played a vital role in the day to day life of America: working in the farms and stores, building roads and buildings and in all aspects of life from engineering to medical services to scientists to office workers. While not famous, they are ones who helped build up America through their hard work and desire to better themselves and their children in their new land.

The story of Ellis Island is quite fascinating and is explored in great detail in the award winning DVD Island of Hope - Island of Tears available at The Historical Archive http://www.TheHistoricalArchive.com

Directed by Charles Guggenheim, it won several major awards, including:

CINE - Golden Eagle Award 1990
Columbus International Film and Video Festival - Chris Award 1990
Earthwatch Institute Film Award - 1991
National Educational Film & Video Festival - Bronze Apple 1991

Plantronics Discovery 925 Headset - Communicating in Style

2010-05-05T09:00:00.001-07:00

It is in every living creature's innate nature to engage in a form of communication. It is a way of life and a means for survival. As birds use their song to warn about an incoming storm; humans also use combined tones to relay important messages to each other. Various beats and intonations are meshed together in a manner that they produce comprehensible words. When these words are heard, understood and acted upon, a complete communication cycle is achieved. However, there are times when these sounds are not delivered well. When the medium is ineffective or unstable, recipients often only hear syllabication and at worst, static. This is why it is so important that appropriate and reliable communication accessories are used, especially if a conversation is to occur over phones or the internet. In this aspect, plantronics headsets make a fine partner in keeping communication lines clear and strong, whatever the situation may be.

Plantronics Inc. has been in the business of creating the best headsets for office phones, mobile phones, gaming consoles, stereos, computers and even aeroplanes and space shuttles. Yes. You read it right. Plantronics actually started making a name for themselves by designing and manufacturing headsets for pilots of the United Airlines. A little later after, the company ventured into making headsets for astronauts. Fifty years has passed since then, but the company remains to be forerunners in the headset industry; producing one-of-a-kind, innovative headsets that's fit for any industry or any task, be it related to information relay or plain old sound tripping.

One thing that plantronics headsets can boast of is their unparalleled technology. No other brand can work like they do. Whether wired or wireless, you can expect your plantronics device to deliver audio streams from sender to receiver without fail. It even has in its line up headsets that can seamlessly connect with two communication devices at the same time and quickly distinguish which it needs to integrate with when a call arises.

However, infusing high-end technology into their products is not the only thing that Plantronics is good at. Style and comfort are also areas which they've perfected. Plantronics devices are made in various wearing styles to accommodate different preferences. Wear them over your head, if you like; or let it hang. You can even choose plantronics headsets with hooks, if headbands bother you, and let it stay on your ear for hours. Since their also lightweight, you wouldn't even feel like they're there.

For the fashion conscious, particularly the females, you don't have to feel apprehensive using a headset with your mobile phone when you're outside. The Plantronics Discovery 925 is especially made to fit your set lifestyle. Since it connects to your mobile phone via Bluetooth, you don't have to feel awkward about having wires dangle over your shoulder. You can talk for as long as 5 hours while driving or walking on the streets and wouldn't have to worry about your voice being overpowered. This plantronic headset offers great voice quality and raises your voice above all external racket. When your done, you can easily charge it on your mobile charging cradle and use it again after three hours. But the best part about the Discovery 925 is its look. With sleek and colorful designs, it will go well with any outfit and any occasion.

On this note, let me point out that determining which brand to use is easy. For this, reputation and experience are always the best indicator of quality. But from which dealer you are to get the device from is an entirely different story. A lot of companies will claim that they are trustworthy. But look deeper at their services and products to determine which among them has your best interest at heart. When you find this, then you're a step closer to securing a complete and satisfying communication cycle.

About the author: Boogie Warwick is a telecommunications specialist from Simply Headsets, a provider of top quality plantronics headsets.

FUCK ED HARDY (Dirt Nasty/Milonakis/Rich Hil)

2010-05-04T08:20:00.001-07:00

Download FUCK ED HARDY for FREE www.dirtnastymusic.com ED HARDY FUCKING SUCKS twitter: @andymilonakis @Dirt_nasty @richhil @thegoodmanlife thegoodmanlife, for more beats contact DJ Natty at 216 924 0683 www.youtube.com evolvekid@gmail.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ApgjQ6rlBw&hl=en

Caylor Creek Boutique Cheap Commercial

2010-05-03T07:10:00.001-07:00

Ladies Boutique, Fashion, Style, womens Clothing, Mek Jeans, Lucky brand Jeans, Volatile Shoes, Corkys Footwear, ed hardy shirts, rock and republic jeans, It Jeans, Petrol Jeans designer jeans, Located in Glen Rose Tx but you can shop on line at www.caylorcreek.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9H9Xa3pZmE&hl=en

Haunting At The Station Hotel In Dudley

2010-05-02T03:40:00.001-07:00

Featured on television by 'Most Haunted' the Station Hotel Dudley in the UK, holds many dark secrets, particularly in the cellars. The story tells of a hotel manager who enticed a servant girl into the cellar. Spurning his advances and threatening to tell his wife, the girl was murdered by him.

When 'Most Haunted's' resident psychic Derek Acorah went to the hotel, he reported the name of a male spirit George Williams/Williamson who was having an affair with a female by the name of Elizabeth Hitchen. George Williams allegedly murdered Elizabeth by strangling and stabbing her. Acorah then revealed that Williams disposed of Elizabeth's body by means of a chute within the hotel, which would have been used, at the time, for the delivery of bottles and barrels. Williams was then reported to have buried the body near the front of the hotel. According to Derek Acorah, Elizabeth Hitchen's body remains there.

Originally built in 1910, the Station was demolished in 1936 in order to build a larger Hotel. This became particularly popular with theatrical artists playing the Hippodrome Theatre, once situated opposite. Laurel & Hardy, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby and George Formby are amongst the famous names that have stayed at the Hotel.

It is still a nice comfortable hotel with a good restaurant decorated to reflect its former glory. Ask to be seated at 'Georges' table.

I have held a number of public paranormal investigations at the Station Hotel and have never been disappointed with the level of paranormal activity. If you visit make sure it's on a cellar tour night, we have had people touched, pushed, slapped and in the case of one unlucky customer; thrown back off a chair just as the Planchette was about to start, all in the cellar, and don't forget your camera, 'orbs' a plenty at the Station Hotel, currently rated as my number one hotel for paranormal activity.

If you do decide to stay the night ask for a room on the haunted landing, 214 is the one in which the bed and chair moved when 'Most Haunted' filmed there. Nice!

John Blythe is Senior Executive Manager for Haunted Weekend http://www.hauntedweekend.com who organizes public paranormal investigations in haunted hotels and castles throughout the UK. He has appeared on television with Haunted Weekend clearing a haunted house and has featured in and written for many paranormal magazines. He is also a featured expert on the paranormal for World Reviewer, a website that specialises in unique experiences; http://www.worldreviewer.com

Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry Trailer

2010-04-30T21:30:00.001-07:00

Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry Trailer horismokumovie.com Writer Erich Weiss Executive Producer: Steven Grasse SXSW Screening Times Landmark Dobie Theatre 2021 Guadalupe St Austin,TX Wednesday, March 12th at 6:30pm Thursday, March 13th at 11am Friday, March 14th at 1:30pm Synopsis Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry is a feature length documentary exploring the roots of American tattooing through the life of its most iconoclastic figure, Norman "Sailor Jerry" Collins. Considered by many the foremost tattoo artist of all time, Collins is the father of modern day tattooing, whose uncompromising lifestyle and larger than life persona made him an American legend. Through rare interviews, photographs and hours of archival footage, Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry: The Life and Times of Norman Keith Collins, explores the past, present and future of the global tattooing phenomenon. Based in Honolulu for most of his career, Sailor Jerry would come to symbolize the masculine ethos of a time when thousands of enlisted men were embanked in Hawaii, during World War II. Miles from home, ready to die, and fueled by devil-may care attitudes, these men went on shore leave with a single purpose in mind: to get "Stewed, Screwed and Tattooed." Jerry marked these men with what would come to symbolize a new style of American folk art; tattoos that blended traditional elements of continental motifs with the finesse, shading, and artistic nuance of the Japanese tattoo masters, known as horis. Borne from his own years of ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHjebTottiw&hl=en

The Other Hef: Welcome to Muirfield

2010-04-29T19:20:00.001-07:00

The story of the other Hef, Swagger Magazine mogul Dickie Hefman. See into the life of this hedonistic publisher and take a peek into his super hot sexy lifestyle! sharenow.com http He lets girls stay at his house and sheepishly tries to leverage their appearance in the magazine so he can try and hook up with them. However, they constantly use and abuse him while tolerating his child-like "gooberish" personality for free room and board at the Swagger Mansion in Beverly Hills.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16zGpPQdSZ8&hl=en

hollywood make or break jonas love story chapter 7

2010-04-28T15:00:00.001-07:00

so last chelsea and nick woke up and got dressed and went to nicks place. joe : ok so what are we all doing today. kevin: i know lets go to the mall and take the girls shopping girls: fine by us chelsea: but wont u get mobbed nick: i can fix that ON THE PHONE nick: yes nick jonas okay thank you OFF PHONE joe: what was that about? nick: i had the mall closed down just for us kevin: perfect lets go everyone piles in the car kevin and kayla in the fron nick with chelsea on his lap erica on joes. nick: so babe where do you want to go first. chelsea: i dont care just not hollister joe: i know i hate it chelsea: i know rite you can smell it a mile away. joe: totally nick: okay we all agree on the where do u want to go. chelsea: is there a converse ed hardy and gutair store anywhere in the mall. nick: god i love you * kisses her chelsea and nick get into it and make out the rest of the way everyone gets out of the car and joe calls nick* nick: hello joe: u comin nick: oh yeah haha come in chelsea: talk about embarassing nick: not really i dont care who see's that i love you chelsea: awwh i love you too *kisses him* they get out of the car and everyone is laughing and we all start walking and chelsea trips over those stupid little gardens in the middle of the parking lot (AN i friggin hate those stupid things i fall over them all the time ) nick: ru okay chelsea: yeah i hate those i do it all the time lets go are we spilting up kevin: yes lets go. kevin and kayla kevin: where do ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0nxkHJYmXQ&hl=en

ED HARDY on German TV 2009

2010-04-27T14:00:00.001-07:00

The man behind the brand ED HARDY in a portrait, showing his roots and his current working in fine arts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYfaGlBxkyY&hl=en

Sexy High Heels Dress Up Any Look

2010-04-26T08:40:00.001-07:00

Supposing you're feeling a bit disappointed in your slacks and plain t-shirt, why not put on a pair of sexy high heels! Boots with spike heels or a pair of strappy stilettos will perfect any look.

If you really think about it, what can't you wear sexy shoes with? The fashions of today have opened up so many possibilities, as many of the styles are brought to life through television shows. Here, the runways, usually walked upon by only the most glamorous of celebrities and high-fashion models suited in the grandest upscale fashions and sexy shoes, are shown to the mainstream - and these ladies make sure that a pair of sexy shoes is part of every designer masterpiece! One prototype photo event for a national shoe franchise, complete with many of the biggest names in dance and urban apparel, didn't include one pair of flats, but spike heel boots, high heels in the form of wedges and pumps, and every other type of sexy shoe imaginable.

And what about the "big screen"! Our favorite stars shine in the theater with some of the hottest (and worst) outfits, making sure their heels, hot or not, are one of the main attractions of their outfit. Close-up shots are taking a second to full-length pics because of the creation of HD TVs and DVD players, so sexy high heels and boots are the finishing effort to complete their full wardrobe. A somewhat high heel "granny boot" worn by Helena Bonham-Carter in the movie "Sweeney Todd" was an ideal choice for the mother-to-be to act as Mrs. Lovett, as Helena was pregnant while filming the movie. A blood-red lace replaced the traditional laces, lying casually against the leather, altering what many might consider one of the most unexciting high heels of an era gone-by to an very sexy shoe.

Have you ever realized how your attitude changes when you're wearing sexy high heels? Any typical female can feel like a Hottie (and look like one, too) when boring flats are exchanged for mostly any style of sexy high heels. The confidence of the sexy shoe wearer automatically rises to a new place. They walk a bit taller, smile a little brighter and find it a bit easier to make eye contact with new - even at the grocery store.

On a final note, sexy shoes don't necessary have to be extra high heels, for no shoe will do a thing for your confidence when you've landed on your face. Know your limits, pick your high heels accordingly and be sure to practice at home a bit before going out in your sexy high heels.

Margaret Harper writes for a variety of subjects from health and family to fashion and sexy high heels and owns over 50 pairs of high heel shoes. You can read more on the Shoe Blog for high heel articles, stories and fashion tips.

Angelina Jolie and Fashionable Maternity Clothes

2010-04-25T07:30:00.001-07:00

With her sensuous mouth and beautiful eyes, Angelina Jolie has been referred to as the sexiest women alive. When she got pregnant with her and Brad Pitt's twins, she always made sure that she would be the most stylish pregnant woman ever.

Today, designer maternity clothes do not have to mean baggy sweatpants and wearing your husband?s t-shirts. That was a long, long time ago when expecting mothers were told to hide their baby bumps under unflattering layers of clothes. Fortunately, expectant women have more choices and fashionable choices.

A recent poll of 100 women reported that women?s favorite piece of clothing is a great pair of jeans. And being pregnant does not mean that you have to sacrifice that. Earl jeans, denim designer for famous stars, offer maternity jeans for expecting mothers which has a hidden elastic band and panel in the side pockets. There is also ?Kelly Jean? by Citizens of Humanity, which has great stretchable pockets and boot cut designs that can flatter any body shape.

One more definite must have for an expecting mother is comfortable loungewear. There is Juicy Couture?s maternity line which include hooded sweatshirts, terry cloth pants and cute tank tops and halter tops.

If you do not have a big budget, then Gap answers a solution for you, with their ?starter kit? comprising of four different tops and bottoms designed for mixing and matching. Old Navy also give us nice choices that would not hurt our budget, either.

Aside from Angelina Jolie sporting glamorous maternity outfits, practical mom Liz Lange opened a new line of maternity clothing. So, you can be sure that what you are buying from her line is the best because she knows what a modern woman wants.

Gone were the days when expecting mothers were dressed in drab, hello to stylish soon-to-be moms of today.

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Martial Arts Questions - Body Piercing, Advantage or Problem?

2010-04-24T02:30:00.001-07:00

In today's society, we should discuss body piercing. Can this type of jewelry affect your martial-arts effectiveness?

Is wearing this type of jewelry to your advantage? I was going to retell the episode of my new friend from England suddenly hollering in pain while sparring with another guy. It turned out that the guy's stick barely nicked the nipple ring that Tom wore under his shirt. Completely by accident.

Oh the pain!

As I said, I was going to retell that story, but there is no need....Martial artists write me on occasion about martial encounters where one of the fighters had piercings.

And the vote is in:

Some of the martial artists and/or their adversaries have had eyebrow rings, and nose rings ripped off. Some have lost pieces of earlobe or face flesh when the metal was pulled out. One of my subscribers to Martial Arts Mastery, said that even simple studs and baubles can really hurt when hit into your skin, or when scraped.

Conclusion to the Martial Piercing Question

Steve Golden, an original Bruce Lee and Ed Parker student, has always had the rule of no jewelry worn in class. Period.

It's for this very reason.

I, on the other hand, tell my students that I advise against it. Some martial arts students still insist on sporting ear plugs or nose rings. This insistence only lasts for about one lesson -- or part way through the very first class. And I am not even necessarily the one to "deliver the convincer."

'Intentional' lesson-teaching accidents happen all of the time. Pierce if you want. I am not a judge, nor am I your parent. Just keep in mind that you may have created another vulnerable spot on your body. Something extra to have to protect. The answer to this martial arts question is just an answer -- a martial opinion. You absolutely don't have to follow this advice. It's presented to try to ready you for any possible martial encounter. It's just another piece of the puzzle. If you want to be ready for anyone and anything in a fight, you have lots to consider -- more than only body piercings.

Start here with my new, Free ebooklet: Street Fighting -- Ready for Anyone and Anything

Here's a site about punching harder and faster - Free Devastating Punch ebook.

Keith Pascal is a martial-arts writer and has taught martial arts for 25 years.

Italian Luxury Handbags Never Go Out of Style

2010-04-22T23:40:00.001-07:00

When it comes to fashion accessories, everyone knows that Italian luxury handbags are timeless. But, if you own a boutique or retail store, you may not know where to buy wholesale handbags, or have the knowledge to recognize reputable manufacturers. Here are some tips about what to look for, both in terms of fashion handbags and in terms of selecting the right supplier:

1. Skins are in. When it comes to Italian luxury handbags, look for those that are made from real python skin, real ostrich skin, and real crocodile skin. If you're concerned about price point, consider cocco-ligator skin, a process whereby natural crocodile fibers are used to create a skin similar to that of a crocodile, but is less expensive than crocodile leather.

2. Remember the color story. This year, the color story is all over the spectrum - literally. Vibrant reds continue to make a statement, while green is emerging as the must-have color of the year. Perhaps due to the influence of the environmental movement, women are selecting clothing and fashion accessories that reflect this eco-friendly color. The other two colors that are emerging as frontrunners this season are purple and olive, while gold and silver are catching the limelight for eveningwear accessories. Of course, black never goes out of style, but embellishments are being added to more traditional black fashion handbags.

3. Look for the artisanal touch. The best Italian luxury handbags are handmade by artisans who have years of experience in crafting timeless pieces. The manufacturer you choose to work with should acknowledge the traditions associated with Italian craftsmanship, and the production process should involve a collective effort to bring out the finest qualities in the materials used. When it does, you will have the opportunity to purchase unique wholesale handbags that your customers will treasure.

4. Watch the paperwork. If you live outside of the European Union and you purchase genuine Italian luxury handbags made from exotic skins, there is an entire body of regulations governing their export. The manufacturer that you choose should be able to meticulously carry out the requirements for exporting these leather goods. For example, the manufacturer needs to track the origin of the skins, obtain the necessary licenses, and complete the proper CITES paperwork in order to ship the finished products to you.

5. Variety is key. Although you know your customer better than anyone, the chances are good that she has different needs for different occasions. Carrying a variety of clutches, purses, and tote bags helps build customer loyalty and repeat sales. The best manufacturers of Italian luxury handbags will give you the choices that you - and your customers - need. For example, you should be able to choose the styles of bags you want, as well as from among four different varieties of exotic skins and more than 30 different tonalities. When you do, your customers can find exactly what they need to match their wardrobes and lifestyles.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Italian Luxury Handbags or Majon's Clothing Accessories directory.

Kanye West Feat. G.ReXx(SGangstalous) - Heartless Remix (NEW 2008)

2010-04-21T09:50:00.001-07:00

DOWNLOD LINK: www.SGangstalous.com ***FOR PROMOTIONAL USE ONLY*** Lyrics: In the night, I hear 'em talk, the coldest story ever told Somewhere far along this road, he lost his soul to a woman so heartless.. How could you be so heartless? Oh.. How could you be so heartless? Ms heartless, this letter is to you Let me start with the day when I met you Beginning of summer, around with the boys Ended up at a house with some hoes She was sitting there an angel on her thrown There she should known that messing with the don It aint healthy, Im the danger zone Guess she found out, when she went back home She was high she was living on the hills Should have listened to Ed Hardy - love kills Im the pill baby that could made u chill Instead u walked away like my money from my bills Came closer then even Ne-Yo would Had thoughts in my mind if I should if I could At the end u chose and its all good Im standing real like a tree and hard like the wood I aint like the others Im different type snow One time u touch me youll addicted till u go In my eyes, youre like all the other whores I hope u listening, if not let her know That I had more respect then anybody else And I, understand your life and thats for a fact Couldnt control your self instead u left Thats weak Babygirl you should know the best Im coming to the end with two last questions How couldnt you talk to me after all that passion? I guess the best, god forgive her actions Last question... HOW COULD YOU BE SO HEARTLESS?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLx41UrGiDE&hl=en

Burberry Boots - Find Burberry Boots For Any Occasion

2010-04-20T06:10:00.001-07:00

Looking for Burberry Boots? then look no further, We're about to point you in the direction of distributors that will give you a wonderful selection of fine authentic Burberry boots for any occasion. Whether it's rain, sleet, snow, work or dancing you name it Burberry's got a boot just for you.

Burberry boots at a good price

Finding these boots are not hard to do but finding them at a good price is another story, but it can be done if your willing to go the extra mile and do you homework. You will have to be willing to search high and low to find the best prices on Burberry boots, places not limited to online stores and market places as well as offline. Don't be afraid to ask questions about pricing, it's your money and you want it to go as far as you can make it stretch.

Where to look

Outlet stores provide an excellent selection for a number of name brand products and Burberry is no different, outlet stores also offer an abundance of information about product authenticity, how to find knock off versions, how to tell if your Burberry boots are fake, so by all means get to know your Burberry outlet dealer. The online official Burberry store is probably the safest place online to look for Burberry boots, you're almost guaranteed to find the boot you want and it's authenticity will not be a question, just type Burberry.com into your favorite search engine search box and it will pull up the official Burberry site.

styles and color schemes

Burberry boots come in many different styles and color schemes just like all other things made by Burberry. Burberry's design extends throughout it's product line making it very unique to the market in which it targets, Burberry boots are not limited to one type of fabric or material and can easily match your fashion profile and wardrobe, or simply build your wardrobe around your boots, either way you are going to draw attention any where you go. If you decide to shop online auctions such as eBay, just be sure to do a little research to find reputable Burberry boot store owners with the highest feedback rating you can find.

Burberry fashion is making it's come back and Burberry Boots are an excellent way to usher it in. Don't forget to visit our web site at http://www.squidoo.com/alloccasionburberryboots for a complete line of Burberry boots and information

A Walk on my Block -The Meatpacking District - Brooke Elliott - UTA Prelim Story

2010-04-18T22:30:00.001-07:00

I took a walk around the block between 13th and 14th and 8th and 9th Ave in Manhattan's trendiest hot-spot, the Meatpacking District, and spoke with locals and tourists about their favorite hot-spots in the area. Check it out!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB1kOe9PJME&hl=en

Michael Jackson at Christian Audigier's 50th Birthday Bash

2010-04-17T22:10:00.001-07:00

Christian Audigier surprises his guests by introducing Michael Jackson to the stage. Michael dons Christian as "The King of Fashion".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eg9TqfjigNI&hl=en

The Most Desirable Textile

2010-04-16T19:00:00.001-07:00

Latest fashion industry is full of different kinds of textiles, mostly artificial one. They are good for a big fashion shows but in ordinary wear we prefer natural materials. And what is more natural then Harris Tweed?

Harris Tweed (in industry way) was for the first time made in 19th century - handwoven back than, in the earlier beginnings and till nowadays. It has a great history and a great field of usage in fashion. There are many producers of clothes in the UK but probably none of them is as much famous as Harris Tweed.

The definition of Harris Tweed brought from Harris Tweed Act (1993) says that it's ''cloth that has been handwoven by the islanders of Lewis, Harris in their homes, using pure virgin wool that has been dyed and spun in the Outer Hebrides.'' Since than only few elements of this definition has changed.

The act was specially written to ensure that all clothes certified with the Harris Tweed Orb symbol are genuine. The Harris Tweed can only be woven in the outer Islands off Western Scotland in the Hebrides. And every weaver involved has to sign the British Harris Tweed Authority agreement that they wove the yarn by hand.

The name wasn't tweed from the beginning. The original was ''twill'', as the cloth was being woven in a twilled. We call it differently only by chance. It's because of misleading of merchant of London , as the traditional story says. Almost two centuries ago the merchant got letter about the material 'tweel' being produced in Scotland but he misinterpreted the handwriting understanding it to be a trade-name taken from the name of the river Tweed. This name left till today.

How everything started? In 1846, Lady Dunmore, widow of the late Earl of Dunmore, had the Murray tartan copied by Harris weavers in tweed. This proved so successful that Lady Dunmore devoted much time and thought to marketing the tweed to her friends and then to improving the process of production. This was the beginning of the Harris Tweed industry.

Harris Tweed must be made from 100 per cent pure virgin wool. Now the wool can be imported from different countries but all harris tweed is hand woven by the weavers at their own home, finished in the Outer Hebrides. Only dying is made in factories, usually the same one where the material for scottish kilts and blankets are being dyed too.

Now Harris Tweed is most desirable textile, well known on the whole world and appreciated by the movie stars and one of the biggest sport concern, Nike.

Scottish kilts

Anthropologie Clothing - My Best-Kept Secret

2010-04-15T07:20:00.001-07:00

Anthropologie, the large clothing retailer that remains relatively unknown outside their anchor stores' regions, is one of my favorite "stories" in the fashion world. In fact, I like most everything about them except for how they dip their greedy fingers into my handbag (figuratively, of course) every time I visit them physically or virtually. If you haven't heard of Anthropologie, you might have heard of their parent company, Urban Outfitters. Anthropologie was spun off to cater to the Urban Outfitters audience that grew up and became successful. In essence, Urban Outfitters is trying to follow their customers later into their lives.

They've take a unique approach with much of their clothing, including limited distribution. If you find a piece of Anthropologie clothing, you will not find that same piece at any other retailer. Limited run clothing items are common, and you'll even see some one of a kind items from time to time. Floral prints, appliques, laces, velvets and dainty details can be found in many Anthropologie clothing styles. What I find so appealing about their style is the quiet confidence of it. It really is for the woman who wants to look good, but knows that she doesn't need tight fits or low cuts to accomplish that. They simply make attractive, sexy, confident, elegant clothing. This is a trend that I wish were more mainstream, and these kinds of clothes really make a woman feel like a woman. They also focus heavily on accessories and home décor, so chances are that if you like the style of their clothing, you'll also like their other offerings for both you and your home. And it also makes for a nice shopping experience.

According to Anthropologie's literature, their target customer is a woman in her 30's to 40's with an upscale income. But walk into any store and you might see a different story. You'll find women of all ages browsing the racks, and they stay there for quite some time. Urban Outfitters claims that the average shopping experience at their Anthropologie stores lasts a full 80 minutes, as compared to the 15 minutes seen at other retailers. This could be a function of the age, of course, but that wouldn't be telling the whole story. It's safe to say that I'm a fan of the Anthropologie brand and the Anthropologie fashion principles, but I'll also be the first to admit that they're not very budget friendly!

Smruti Evans is involved in the fashion industry and spends many hours inside Anthropologie clothing stores! Smruti manages a discount web site and helps Anthropologie and Gucci fans find genuine discount Gucci bags at bargain basement prices.

perfume commercial

2010-04-14T05:50:00.001-07:00

Forget Obsession, Delusion is the new must have fragrance. Tags: sex health benefits sexual wellness hot fact girl nicolle men women story free video model sex health benefits sexual wellness hot fact girl nicolle men women story free video model

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLTdCt9z8qE&hl=en

Five Days in the A extended Trailer

2010-04-12T22:50:00.001-07:00

Premiere at Movies ATL in Atlanta, GA. July 23, 2009......... 5 Days in The A is a feature length, independent film, set in Atlanta, GA, shot by Atlanta Dream Team Productions. Elementary school student Zarad Williams guides you through five days in the life of his family and neighborhood, the infamous Bluff section of Atlantas Bankhead area. Zarad is enamored with his older brother Jamal Williams who sets an example as a star athlete, gifted student, devoted boyfriend, involved family member and social activist. However not everyone agrees with Zarad, especially Jamals nemesis Brayden. Drama ensues as Braydens jealousy grows while Jamal and his friends prepare for their High School graduation, end of the year parties and college ambitions that will get them out of the Bluff and headed into brighter futures. This film was made with both a cast and crew who were willing to take extreme pay cuts, work long hours and take additional responsibilities for a film everyone believed in. The performances reflect that passion and the films quality, despite a marginal budget, were not compromised. This story of a young man who embodies the American Dream and those who will never know what the dream can be is a voice Atlanta has never had. Known as the Hollywood of the South, Atlanta is the new face of great filmmaking untouched by the Hollywood machine. 5 Days in the A reveals the souls of its characters and will have you laughing, crying and wondering whats next. The star studded ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cno3pR0lBqE&hl=en

Getting Dressed with Kim Kardashian

2010-04-11T22:30:00.001-07:00

www.younghollywood.com Go in the dressing room with Kim Kardashian, Brittany Gastineau, and more at the Dash Fashion Show.younghollywood.com keeps up with the pulse and vibe of the next generation. We provide the real take on Hollywood -- revealing the inside story of celebrity life, as told by the best source -- celebrities themselves. With its unparalleled access to the world beyond the velvet rope, Young Hollywood offers the ultimate insider's perspective on celebrity lifestyle, travel, nightlife, music, fashion, and more. We share the latest scoop on what's hot, new, and undiscovered ranging from fashion and leisure to restaurants, exclusive clubs and gadgets.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_KTF1Vav6k&hl=en

Cowboy Boot Purses - Recycled Cowboy Boots, Recycled Memories

2010-04-10T21:30:00.001-07:00

You know those old cowboy boots, tucked away at the corner of your closet. Sure, you had great adventures rounding up cattle and line dancing to the great hits of the 80's. Maybe you've got dad's old boots lying around. Too beat up to wear or even to have them resoled. Reminiscing about the memories surrounding this little treasured piece of history, it's hard to toss them out.

It's now possible to preserve the memories and the history of these hard working cowhide. From stirrup to shoulder, you can have a specialty heirloom purse designed from your old cowboy boots. Combining the memories of where the boots have been, with the person how wore them, will be the delight of any cowgirl or cowgirl at heart. Integrating crystals, silver conchos, brass spots, horse bits and leather horse bridle parts, create a one of a kind piece of work that will last a lifetime and so will the memories of where these boots have been and the tales they can tell. So recycle those boots, but maybe more importantly, recycle the precious memories of the foot steps of a loved one.

The cowboy boot purses are available in the "single wide" which is made from one boot usually measuring about 11" high, 6" wide and 4" deep. The "double wide" is made from 2 boots, or a pair, cut in half then sewn together to make a bigger more functional size purse. They usually measure about 12" high, 10" wide and about 6" deep. The boot of the purse has a leather insert bottom, hand laced with kangaroo lacing. The handles can vary in length from 12" for the crook of your arm to the longer over the shoulder length handles made from horse reins or bridle headstalls. Occasionally you'll find the often sought after cowboy boot back pack. Made from a pair of tall boots using Rommel horse reins for the straps. Some of these finished art work pieces are adorn with crystals and shiny silver conchos, some understated classic western, while others are just plain fun and sassy! Show off your cowgirl attitude from the opera to the rodeo all in one day!

If you don't have boots of your own, there are many choices from black or brown to the fancy purple and red cowboy boot purses available. See the variety and create your own cowboy boot bag at http://www.diamond57.com

Website: http://www.diamond57.com

503-756-1480 Gresham, Oregon

Order a custom purse to your specifications, made from your boots or ours.

Sue Roake

The Man Who Unlocked the World

2010-04-09T21:00:00.001-07:00

When men first went to the moon, they planned with mathematical precision where they were going and how they were going to get there. And they could communicate with home. But when Ferdinand Magellan's five little wooden ships most of them about 70 feet [21 m] long, comparable in length to a modern semitrailer left Spain in 1519, they sailed into the unknown. And they were utterly alone.

Among the boldest, most courageous navigational feats of all time, Magellan's voyages are a monument to the Great Age of Exploration an age of courage and fear, elation and tragedy, God and Mammon. Let's go back, then, to about 1480, when Ferdinand Magellan was born in northern Portugal, and take a look at the remarkable man who unlocked the world and at his epic journeys.

From Court Page to Fearless Mariner

The Magellan family are members of the nobility, so, as is the custom, while Ferdinand is still a young lad, he is called in as page to the royal court. Here, besides getting an education, he learns firsthand of the exploits of men like Christopher Columbus, who has just returned from the Americas after having sought a western sea route to the fabled Spice Islands (Indonesia). Young Ferdinand soon dreams of the day when he too can hear the slap of canvas overhead and feel in his face the spray of unexplored oceans.

Sadly, in 1495 his patron, King John, is assassinated and Duke Manuel, who is keen on wealth but not on exploration, takes the throne. For some reason, Manuel dislikes 15-year-old Ferdinand and for years ignores his requests to go to sea. But when Vasco da Gama returns from India, loaded with spices, Manuel smells great wealth. Finally, in 1505, he gives Magellan permission to go to sea. Magellan sets off for East Africa and India in a Portuguese armada to help wrest control of the spice trade from Arab merchants. Thereafter, he sails farther east to Malacca with another military expedition.

During a skirmish in Morocco in 1513, Magellan gets badly wounded in the knee. As a result, he limps for the rest of his life. He asks Manuel for an increase in his pension. But Manuel's animosity is not lessened in the least by Magellan's recent exploits, sacrifice, and valor. He sends him on his way with barely enough to live in genteel poverty.

At this lowest point in Magellan's life, he receives a visit from an old friend, the famous navigator João de Lisboa. The two discuss ways of reaching the Spice Islands by going southwest, through el paso a strait rumored to cut through South America and then across the ocean that Balboa recently discovered when he traversed the Panamanian isthmus. They believe that on the far side of this ocean lie the Spice Islands.

Magellan now aches to do what Columbus failed to do find that western route to the Orient, which he believes is shorter than the eastern route. But he needs financial backing. So, still smarting from the heat of Manuel's wrath, he does what Columbus himself did some years earlier he seeks the patronage of the king of Spain.

Will Spain's King Listen?

With charts laid open, Magellan presents his arguments to Spain's young sovereign, Charles I, who is most interested in Magellan's western route to the Spice Islands, for this would preclude trespassing on Portuguese shipping lanes. What is more, Magellan tells him that the Spice Islands may actually be in Spanish territory, not Portuguese! See the box "The Treaty of Tordesillas."

Charles is won over. He gives Magellan five old ships to refit for the expedition, makes him captain-general of the fleet, and promises him a share in the profits from the spices brought home. Magellan immediately starts to work. But because King Manuel slyly attempts to sabotage the project, it takes more than a year before the fleet is finally ready for its epic voyage.

"The Greatest Navigational Feat in History"

On September 20, 1519, the San Antonio, the Concepción, the Victoria, and the Santiago largest to smallest follow Magellan's flagship, the Trinidad, the second-largest vessel, as they sail for South America. On December 13, they reach Brazil, and under the majestic gaze of Pão de Açúcar, or Sugarloaf Mountain, they enter the beautiful bay of Rio de Janeiro for repairs and provisions. Then they continue south into what is now Argentina, ever alert for el paso, the elusive passage to another ocean. Meantime, the days get colder and icebergs appear. Eventually, on March 31, 1520, Magellan decides to winter in the cold harbor of San Julián.

The voyage has now taken six times longer than Columbus' first Atlantic crossing and still no strait! Morale is as frigid as the San Julián weather, and the men, including some of the captains and officers, are desperate to go home. It is no surprise when mutiny erupts. But through quick, decisive action on Magellan's part, it fails, and two of the ringleaders are killed.

The presence of strange ships in the harbor naturally piques the curiosity of the hardy and big local inhabitants. Feeling like dwarfs next to these giants, the visitors call that land Patagonia from a Spanish word meaning "big feet" its name to this day. They also observe 'sea wolves resembling calves in size, and black and white geese that swim underwater, eat fish, and have beaks like crows.' Yes, you guessed it seals and penguins!

Polar latitudes are prone to sudden, violent storms, and before winter is over, the fleet suffers its first casualty the tiny Santiago. Fortunately, though, the crew are rescued from the grounded wreck. Thereafter, the four remaining ships, like battered little winged moths in the thrall of unremitting icy gales, pound their way south into ever colder waters until October 21. Through spray and sleet, all eyes are locked onto an opening to the west. El paso? Yes! At long last, they turn and enter the strait that is later known as the Strait of Magellan! Yet, even this moment of triumph is tarnished. The San Antonio deliberately disappears in the maze of the strait and returns to Spain.

The three remaining ships, flanked by bleak fjords and snowcapped peaks, doggedly force their way through the tortuous strait. To the south they spot countless fires, possibly from Indian camps, so they call that land Tierra del Fuego, "Land of Fire."

The Pacific Ordeal

After five harrowing weeks, they sail out into an ocean so peaceful that Magellan names it the Pacific. The men pray, sing hymns, and salute their conquest with their cannons. But their euphoria is short-lived. Woe beyond anything they have so far experienced awaits them, for this is not the small sea they expected it goes on and on and on, and the men get hungrier and weaker and sicker.

Antonio Pigafetta, a hardy Italian, keeps a journal. He writes: "Wednesday, the twenty-eighth of November, 1520, we . . . entered into the Pacific sea, where we remained three months and twenty days without taking in provisions . . . We only ate old biscuit reduced to powder, and full of grubs, and stinking from the dirt which the rats had made on it . . . , and we drank water that was yellow and stinking. We also ate the ox hides . . . , the sawdust of wood, and rats which cost half-a-crown each, moreover enough of them were not to be got." Thus, as fresh trade winds fill their sails and clear water slips beneath their keel, the men lie rotting from scurvy. Nineteen die by the time they reach the Mariana Islands, on March 6, 1521.

But here, because of hostilities with the islanders, they manage to get only a little fresh food before sailing on. Finally, on March 16, they sight the Philippines. At long last, all the men eat well, rest, and regain their health and strength.

Tragedy A Dream Collapses

A deeply religious man, Magellan there converts many local inhabitants and their rulers to Catholicism. But his zeal is also his undoing. He gets involved in an intertribal dispute and, with just 60 men, attacks some 1,500 natives, believing crossbow, musket, and God will assure him victory. Instead, he and a number of his men are killed. Magellan is about 41. Loyal Pigafetta laments: 'They killed our mirror, light, comfort, and true guide.' A few days later, some 27 officers who had done no more than watch from the safety of their ships are put to death by once friendly chiefs.

When Magellan died, he fell in familiar waters. A little to the south lay the Spice Islands and to the west, Malacca, where he had fought in 1511. If, as some historians think, he sailed to the Philippines after the battle at Malacca, then he did, indeed, circumnavigate the globe though not, of course, in one voyage. He had reached the Philippines from both the east and the west.

Disaster Plagues the Homeward Run

As so few men now remain, working three ships is impossible, so they sink the Concepción and sail the remaining two vessels to their ultimate destination, the Spice Islands. Then, having loaded up with spices, the two ships separate. However, the crew of the struggling Trinidad are captured by the Portuguese and imprisoned.

But the Victoria, under the command of ex-mutineer Juan Sebastián de Elcano, gets away. Avoiding all ports bar one, they risk the Portuguese route around the Cape of Good Hope. Not stopping for victuals, though, is a costly strategy. When finally they reach Spain on September 6, 1522 three years from when they left only 18 sick, emaciated men have survived. Still, they are earth's first undisputed circumnavigators. And De Elcano is a hero. Incredibly, the Victoria's 26 tons of spices pay for the entire expedition!

Magellan's Name Lives On

For years Magellan is denied his true place in history. Swayed by the reports of the mutinous captains, the Spanish smear his name, saying he was harsh and incompetent. The Portuguese label him a traitor. Sadly, his log vanished when he died, probably destroyed by those it would expose. But thanks to the indomitable Pigafetta one of the 18 circumnavigators and about 5 other members of the expedition, we have at least some record of this tragic, yet extraordinary, voyage.

In time, history revised its judgment, and today the name Magellan is duly honored. A strait bears his name, as do the Magellanic Clouds two fuzzy southern galaxies first described by his crew and the space probe Magellan. And, of course, we owe the name of the world's largest ocean the Pacific to Magellan.

Indeed, "no human voyage of such importance would be made until Apollo 11 landed on the Moon 447 years later," writes Richard Humble, in The Voyage of Magellan. Why was the voyage so important? First, it proved that the Americas were neither part of nor close to Asia, as Columbus had thought. Second, at the end of the voyage, a one-day discrepancy in dates pointed to the need for an international date line. And, finally, as science writer Isaac Asimov said, it showed that the earth is a sphere. Yes, in this latter respect, Magellan demonstrated in a practical way what the Bible itself had been saying for 2,250 years. (Isaiah 40:22; compare Job 26:7.) No doubt the deeply religious man who unlocked the world would have been pleased with that.

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Ivan Ives - Villain (Official Video)

2010-04-08T19:30:00.001-07:00

Ivan Ives - "Villain" Album - "Newspeak" (available on itunes) Official Music Video. This was the first single off Ivan's highly-anticipated 2009 release, NEWSPEAK, which sold like hotcakes upon arrival. The video features a storyline of Ivan essentially "selling himself" through his music to a greater corporation/conglomerate that subdues him and rapes his integrity for everything that it is worth. Follow the story line to fully understand it. The "Newspeak" album features incredible guest appearances from The Cool Kids, Black Milk, Percee P, Oh No, 2Mex, Tre Hardson from the Pharcyde, Stacy Clark, Crash Boom Bang, and more. The 16-page full lyric booklet is available with hard copies of the album and a simplified version of the lyrics is available when you buy the album on itunes. This track was produced by Fresh The Hitman and DJ Duel laces the cuts. Ivan Ives self-directs and edits the video, with VFX help from Waken Media and Morgan Locke. Michael Norquest is the cinematographer. Ivan Ives on Myspace: www.myspace.com Ivan Ives on Twitter: twitter.com Ivan Ives on Facebook: www.facebook.com LYRICS: Newspeak! Well, I guess y'all thought I was the shit, cuz like a super nintendo, I got my 16 bit(stolen). But y'all can't even spit it like I can, God damn, at the club they be like, "my man, step right in, fuck the line" ... cuz this the best I been, I'm ahead of my time - I'm on top of my game like a mammal on the food chain, still alive and insane like Saddam Hussein ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AaKIlkq3LhY&hl=en

The Fable of: Big-chest (Chapter #7: Tatoo-woman Spots land)

2010-04-07T17:20:00.001-07:00

Chapter Seven

Tattoo-woman Spots Land

Tattoo-woman

It was a cool morning and the twenty-eighth month since Big-chest and Stern-toes left the valley area, and the ice-sheet was no bigger than one eighth its previous sizes: if it was to get much smaller, one would have to swim to land thought Stern-toes. Moreover, if you had clear water around this iceberg, you could see its tail. But it was this morning when Tattoo-woman spotted land and came running around the three igloos reminiscent of a crazy women screaming so: although she was, or seemingly was to most of the group anyways a bit touched in the head. (At night she'd sleep with her so-called, unofficial, husband, and then sneak into the beds of other men, and just smile at the man's woman whom was sleeping there with (by) and made love to him.) Toma liked her, but would not acknowledge her to be his and his only woman; yet, she claimed otherwise; sometimes she turned the man over when the woman was sleeping, and the wives would never know Tattoo-woman was even there: she was like Big-chest used to be, in his younger day. Big-chest didn't' need any advances, if he was needy, he'd go look her up and when he found her, he also found a room in another igloo and did his think, and would return back to his wife when all was done.

To carry on, as I was about to say: now land was spotted, and the whole group ran out to see, and it could be seen with the naked eye [Labrador].

--Thought Stern-toes (breathing in the fresh cool air of the Atlantic):

'It is a good time to be alive,' and here he had once thought, after his mother and brother had died, thought and knew, the Stone-Builders were taking over the land, and thus, there was nothing to live for anymore, or reason left to live--other than, just sitting on the cliff and passing time away, waiting to die. But he took a risk and followed Big-chest, made a move, a decision, and that made all the difference, and he was now glad he took that chance, and went with his instincts, it made all the dissimilarity in his life worthwhile. It was funny he thought: funny how one moves, one simply moves, and actions happen, yes, indeed, one thing move or decision can lead into so many different experiences down the road of life, a few opportunities--a few opportunities you can't see just waiting down the road, if indeed you take that road, make that decision, and he did of course, and meeting so many different people, customs, it was all strange for him, so very strange and interesting.

His wife was now due to have another child, for he had lost his children years back. All the women were with child in the group and due any day now.

--The Arctic Ocean and the Atlantic seemed to have a rhythmic way of its own, a circulation current that balanced the world. And now here was this new land, a land so far away from the Valley of the Caves what could they expect: but they knew that the Stone-Builders, they'd never find them--and that was comfort in itself; that is, the Stone-Builders that killed, brought genocide to two groups of people in his land; and surely they figured, had they a desire to go back, they'd never find their way back anyhow. But at this moment, possibly, just maybe, this new and fresh world had a few surprises on its way for them, good ones, thought Stern-toes, as he looked at all the bodies standing on the edge of the ice-sheet, as if to wave to someone over on the other side (the land side), and all that you could see was bits and pieces of land on the other side. Most of the snow was gone, yet beyond you could see some glaciers. That would be where they would be headed most likely, he thought, hoping they'd first have a long and hardy rest.

See Dennis' web site: http://dennissiluk.tripod.com

Electrik Red for a second interview with Boss Lady (watch in HD)

2010-04-06T17:10:00.001-07:00

drjays.com - Ed Hardy, Baby Phat, Akademiks, Apple Bottoms, Sean John, Coogi, LRG, Blac Label, Rocawear & more. Fulfill your fashion needs at great prices. Ships internationally :) Think you got style? Streetstyle.com Check out DJPREMIUM.com for premium brands: Christian Audigier, Diesel, Charlotte Ronson, Betsey Johnson, Antik Denim, Frankie B., Miss Sixty, True Religion and MORE! **FREE SHIPPING**

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucWDip7Ev0Y&hl=en

Walking On Air - A Jonas Brothers Vampire Story (15.2)

2010-04-05T14:50:00.001-07:00

-Joe's POV- I thought about something today, something.. daring. I wasn't sure if it was too early to do it, so I talked to Kevin about it. He said that I should go for it, that I'm old enough. I wasn't sure if I knew how to prepare everything but he told me that, even if I'm nervous, to just take a chance and ask her. I exhaled deeply and then asked him one last favor. He gladly accepted, and we hopped into his car, telling Nick and Rebecca we'd be back later. -Nick's POV- I sat on my bed with Rebecca in between my legs. I played with her hair and couldn't help but think about all of our past dates we've had: Picnic under the stars... Walk on the beach... Trip to the playground, just so I could push her on the swings... Movie nights... Sleepovers... And somehow it all ended with some sex. Lovely, addictive, passionate sex. Hey, I'm 18 now, I can legally have sex if I want to. I chuckled at the thought and Rebecca turned her head to me. Rebecca: (smiling) What's so funny? Nick: (stares at her eyes) You wanna go on another date tonight? -Rhiley's POV- I was re-painting my room with Dj when I got a text from Joe telling me to meet him at the beach tonight. I got so excited I almost dropped my phone in the can of green paint. Dj: Jesus, Rhiley, be careful! Rhiley: Sorry, haha. Just got a text from Joey. Dj: (sighs and rolls his eyes) Rhiley: I still don't see why you hate him. He's been nice to you since day 1! Dj: I told you before, I don't hate him. I'm just defending my ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ae21jhNYtjo&hl=en

Why Do Christian Louboutin Replica Shoes Always Look Spectacular?

2010-04-04T11:10:00.001-07:00

There have been several consumer surveys that have been conducted to find out the top ranking brand in the world of shoes and there has been no surprise that the shoes that have always been right on the top step of the ladder and first in class has been the Christian Louboutin replica brand.

Everything about the shoes is spectacular and extravagant. If you were to take only one example of the Christian Louboutin replica Ariella Ankle Suede Replica Boots, then you will understand what we mean by spectacular. They have got it right in all the domains. They are boots which no woman can resist. Look at a woman's closet and you are bound to find boots in them. Then they are not made of leather, which a woman with a lot of shoes might already have lots of.

The suede gives the right posh and plush feeling to these wonderfully sensual boots and then the cherry on top of the cake is the color. All of these features when put together by the best shoe craftsman in the world are certainly going to be a great sell out. So you are not only getting the best bargains in the replica market but you are also sure to get the same stylishness and comfort that the original pairs provide. This is the perfect shopping gift to yourself.

All the shoes that come from the Christian Louboutin replica brand are made to tell a story and live the life of success along with the individual who possesses them. These shoes are in no way the run of the mill kind that will be merging in the crowd. The shoes are designed for success and the big and best things in life. If you like something that is vibrating and pulsating on your feet with the joy of being alive and taking on one day at a time then go for this brand with your eyes closed. Several generations of women have trusted these shoes and not without reason. You can go on to dress the elegant and chic way by wearing the replica shoes that hardly cost you a bomb; this does not make a great distinction to your wallet. When you wear these shoes on your feet you know that you are indisputably going to be the best in the middle of the women in the universe. So, go on and get the style that you so rightly deserve.

What a wonderful feeling it is to have the very best of the best in the world of shoes on your feet. The Christian Louboutin replica shoes are made to transport you to the land of the prince and the princess and the splendid castles, the eternal romances, the wonderful meadows, the full moon nights and so much of cheerfulness and magic that will become overwhelming. Go right on and get yourself the best of the shoes that one can ever buy without going bankrupt and running into the vicious cycle of debt.

If you like fashionable Christian Louboutins replica and other shoes like me, then please do yourself a favor and go to Christian Louboutin replicas, and Replica Handbags. You will love it!

Fashion at New Heights - Tips for Short Legged Woman

2010-04-03T11:00:00.001-07:00

It's time for shorts and for many women that means taking a quick and painful look in the mirror. The majority of us aren't completely happy with the way we look and can spend hours picking out areas that we long to improve. Unfortunately, genetics play a huge roll is body type and something you just can't argue with what nature has to say. For women with short and wide legs, buying clothing can be a real task. Don't lose you're determination. Looking great is merely a matter of knowing what works for you. Here are 5 rules you should follow to make your legs look great in everything form tights and leggings to skirts and shorts.

Rule #1 - Buy the Right Size Shirt

The goal for women with short and wide legs is to create an elongated appearance through tactful clothing choices. In this instance, the clothing item in question is your tops. Never choose shirts that extend past your hips or that end right at you're hips. Shirts that go past you're hips elongate you're torso and make your legs appear shorter. Shirts that end exactly at the hip can break up your body making it look wider.

Rule #2 - Don't be Tempted By Bagging Pants

If you're self conscious about you're legs you may be tempted to buy pants that are a little baggy. Masking size with extra clothing is the absolute worst thing you can do. Instead of drawing attention away from you're legs this will do the opposite. Choose pants that fit you're legs the way they should and you will automatically look better.

Rule #3 - Avoid Light Color Jeans

Light color jeans are hard to pull of for most and if you have shorter and wider legs it can be close to impossible. The light color material, specifically when it's faded in the center of your thigh, can add unwanted depth to your leg. Dark denim, tights, leggings, and pants are you're best choices. They also tend to look more polished than lighter washes which is generally a positive thing on all accounts.

Rule #4 - No Horizontal Stripes

Horizontal stripes are fashion disasters waiting to happen. Whether it's you're top or your bottom, these stripes or patterns will instantly make you appear larger and wider. It's true that there isn't a huge trend in horizontally striped pants, but tops can have a negative impact on you're appearance as well. If you have shorter legs you will want to do you're best to elongate them by creating an over all appearance of length. Horizontal tops do just the opposite.

Rule #5 - Avoid Full Length Skirts

It's tempting to hide you're legs behind long skirts assuming it will cover up what you don't want to be seen. Unfortunately, this works against your body type and can make you look shorter and wider. Long skirts on short legs creates a abrupt ending that does the opposite of elongating your body. Instead this tends to make you're bottom half look boxy. Look for skirts that end right below the knee. These offer the coverage you want without covering everything. If you're still uncomfortable about baring your calves, choose a dark color opaque tight. This will cover your legs and create a slimming appearance.

Hue specializes in ladies legwear including socks, tights, and leggings at Hue.

Cinderella Syndrome - Shoe Fanaticism Today

2010-04-02T08:10:00.001-07:00

In the 21st Century fandom exists in all shapes and sizes. There are groups devoted to everything, from Ford Mondeos to Poodles to music released only on unplayable formats. Indeed, the fandom of shoes is nothing new. Admissions of Shoeaholism have become as everyday as Carrie Bradshaw's indecisiveness but in recent months a number of news stories have brought to my attention the notion that there may well be many specific different types of Shoeaholic.

The first type of shoeaholic to acknowledge is the classic 'hoarder'. I would suppose that 'hoarders' make up the majority of shoeaholics and beside owning hundreds of shoes, they are also known to have an extensive, dare I say, encyclopedic amount of knowledge when it comes to footwear. They are also known to have a physical bodily reaction when certain names are mentioned. For example, mutter Louboutin or Balenciaga in the presence of a 'hoarder' and they are likely to slump to the floor only to be revived by a splash of cold water to the ankles.

The second type of Shoeaholic could well be regarded as the next step up from the typical 'hoarder'. Whereas a 'hoarder' may work in the fashion sector, own and collect many shoes - they probably act like you or me. However, the so-called 'shoe extremist' will take the right to wear a specific type of shoe to court if they need to. In Essex this month, a woman (owner of 200 shoes) who was injured after slipping over at an airport decided to sue for damages because she could not wear her heels after the fall. She won.

The final type came to light via a slightly different news story, and this group seem a little more illusive than the others. The 'Celebri-feet-fan', instead of directly following the styles and changes as dictated by the fashion industry, will follow the shoe choices of someone in the public eye...and not necessarily someone famous for their style sense. The most recent celebrity supposedly at the heart of starting a shoe following is none other than Sarah Palin. The Mail reports that her red Naughty Monkey heels have been flying off she

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Is Fred Perry Clothing the New Lyle & Scott?

2010-03-31T07:20:00.001-07:00

A few years later in 1934 he caused a recognizable shockwave in the British High Society. Because never before had the child with a working class background achieved what made Fred Perry a national hero and introduced tennis to a whole new audience.

A victory in the legendary Wimbledon tennis tournament, it was a breakthrough, because Wimbledon was until then the total domain of the rich snobs and aristocrats of the upper classes. The prize money of 25 quid was not awarded to Fred Perry, as he was an armature, but a non-profit institution donated the prize as recognition of his achievement.

And in addition he also was denied the winners medal and the obligatory Wimbledon club tie which were not formally awarded, but only handed to him in the changing room instead of presented to him on centre court as is the tradition.

The two following years in 1935 and in 36, Perry won the Wimbledon tournament again. Even today there is no Englishman that has ever managed to win three Wimbledon victories in a row. Perry also went on to win tournaments in Australia, France and the United States. Perry is noted along with the Swede Björn Borg to be the only men to be crowned King of the Centre Court five times.

At the end of the 30s Fred Perry became a tennis professional in the U.S. and eventually returned to England in 1947. He always complained that the Wimbledon players green shirts made them look like they were in the army and therefore contributed 75 white Fred Perry T-shirts that he had made to the players.

These were Fred Perry T-shirts, but they still had no emblem on them. The players who had been given the shirts wanted to thank him and came up with the idea of adding a logo to the shirts so that it could clearly be seen by all that they were donated by Fred. They opted for the laurel wreath, which he had won at the 1934 All England Cup, this became the instant symbol of Fred Perry clothing

From then on all Fred Perry T-shirts sold like hot cakes, even the arrogant upper class began to wear Fred Perry clothing with the laurel wreath to play tennis and also as casual wear. It is even said that the Queen once asked him why he thought his shirts were so popular, Perry simply replied: "Highness, my shirts fit!".

Fifty years after his first Wimbledon victory the "Fred Perry statue" was dedicated (1984) and this statue is now the symbol of Wimbledon.

Darrell F writing how Fred Perry Clothing is coming back in a big way...

Fred Perry died at the age of 85, on 2 February 1995. His legend lives until today, the laurel wreath at least serves not only as a reminder of a legendary professional tennis player, but above all as a symbol of working-class and rebellion though his ever popular Fred Perry clothing line.

Madonna - Queen of Reinvention

2010-03-29T02:20:00.001-07:00

Today, there are many celebrities who constantly reinvent themselves. Two good examples would be Courtney Love and of course, Madonna. Madonna has actually spent her career reinventing herself. She has always been able to find innovative ways of reinventing both her musical stylings and fashion that cannot be compared to anyone else in the industry.

In 1985, she can be seen with armful of bracelets made with rubber, torn shirts, crucifixes, lacy bras, tights and a lot more. After she signed her first singles deal, she was able to take the tattered look mainstream.

In 1990, Jean-Paul Gaultier the French designer, was the one who designed her costume for her Blond Ambition World Tour. Madonna's look when she wore her iconic cone bustier that Gaultier designed is still her most memorable.

In 1991, she was even able to channel Marilyn Monroe at the Oscar's with her Bob Mackie dress which was beaded white strapless and body-hugging gown with fur ang formal gloves. She even wore some $20 million worth of diamonds.

Madonna was also able to transform herself into Eva Peron when she played that role in a movie in 1996. She was seen wearing a glamorous Christian Dior dress with red lipstick, her bleached hair pulled back in a knot. She was also able to transform into a geisha and a cowboy. When she became a mother, she was also able to dress herself as a mother. However, as Madonna released her recent albums, she was successfully able to transform herself into a fashionable icon again.

Like Madonna, if you also want to reinvent your life, here are some tips that Madonna has. First, remember that the clothes you wear are one of the most glaring aspects of your lifestyle and personality, so changing them can reinvent your personality.

If you want to reinvent your wardrobe, look first at your lifestyle. Consider your work, for instance. Do you have a 9 to 5 job? Perhaps corporate clothes are a must in your wardrobe. In the same way, casual clothes would fit in if you are a student.

Take out the clutter. Get rid of clothes and accessories you do not need or no longer fits you.

Imagine the person you want to be. From this you can prepare a list of necessary clothes and accessory for your new lifestyle. After that, you can go shopping for the things you need for the new you.

Do not be scared to try new things and looks. You can get ideas on how to go about it from movies, magazines, TV shows, and various media. You can also add a spice of your own personality.

There are some good looks you can try. For example, there is the vintage look which would look good on just about every one. Think of Siena Miller and Kate Moss. Get vintage shoes, clothes, and handbags from thrift stores in your area.

Other looks you can try are Boho Chic which reminds you of Kate Hudson, and the classic look which was popularized by Jackie Onassis.

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The Incredible Value of the Sock

2010-03-27T22:30:00.001-07:00

When it comes to clothes, the sock gets no respect, but it is actually a vital part of the average person's wardrobe. While it lacks the cache of that little black dress or the comfort of a favorite old pair of jeans, without the sock we would be lost. The sock means many things to many different people, from the dress sock that forms the basis of the high powered business wardrobe to the comfortable old sock that is perfectly at home with that comfortable old pair of sneakers.

In fact, the sock is such a vital part of the average person's wardrobe that most of us have many different kinds of socks, in a rainbow of different colors and styles, from the dress sock to the most casual of socks. Fortunately, socks are generally easy to buy and quite inexpensive, so most of us will be able to keep a supply on hand for every occasion.

Just because the sock is generally an inexpensive piece of clothing, however, does not mean it should be shabby or poorly made. Low cost is no excuse for poor quality, and it is important to take value as well as price into account when you go sock shopping. Socks are available at virtually every kind of store, from the lowest priced discount retailers to the most upscale department stores. In addition, there are many stores on the internet that sell all kinds of socks, and these internet retailers can often provide some excellent prices.

It is important to see the sock as much more than just another item of clothing. There are socks that can make or break an outfit, and we have all heard those stories about the guys at the beach with black socks and sandals. In order to avoid these common fashion faux pas, it is important to become familiar with this common but very powerful item of clothing.

For those with some crafting ability, there are a number of great things to do with an old sock, including the old standby sock puppet. For many generations, grandmothers and others around the world have used that old sock to make great toys for their children and grandchildren, and that tradition continues to this day. If you have a collection of old socks around, why not hit your favorite craft store and get a pattern to make a sock monkey or similar toy for the favorite child in your life?

For more information on finding the perfect sock go to [http://www.socketq.com]

The Runway Story for Spring 2008

2010-03-26T20:30:00.001-07:00

The 2008 Spring Collections are fresh off the runways of the major fashion centers around the world. And the reviews are beginning to come in as the critics, retail buyers, and fashion writers analyze and critique what they saw on the runways. So, what are the trends that seem to cross many collections? What are the colors that designers have deemed fashionable for next spring? What accessories are accenting those collections? And, most importantly, how will these trends, colors, and accessories translate to affordable ready-to-wear styles?

To generalize, spring 2008 appears to be filled with several very wearable, fresh trends while selected looks from fall/winter will continue to remain popular. Although there are important new trends that come to the forefront of each new season's fashion picture, some looks seem to flow easily from season to season while undergoing minor changes. Watch for the dress to continue to dominate the fashion scene, although the basic silhouette of the dress will change as the baby doll look fades away and the pencil thin silhouette now begins to influence the dress category. Watch for the prevalent neutral color to remain in the gray family, while the blue tones popular in fall/winter will transition to purple tones for spring. The waistline will become the center of interest making the belt an extremely important accessory item; but also note that jewelry remains big, bold, and oversized while all accessories become increasingly important in completing the total look.

While the dress will remain the single most important fashion look, the broad range of dress styles include mini and maxi styles resurrected from the 1970's, soft flowing looks, and classic tailored looks. But the common thread through all styles is the emphasis on the waistline. The empire waistline, so important in 2007, is now combined with a slimmer skirt thus creating a more slenderizing look replacing the puffy baby doll look. The small over big look, meaning a fitted top joined at the natural waistline with a fuller short skirt, refreshes the basic shirtdress look. The waistline will often be defined by a belt, one of the most important accessories for spring; or it might be defined by a bow or a tied sash, or just nipped in. But defined it will be! There are even some dropped-waist line styles which may be a hinting of future trends. Look also for many interesting details such as origami accents (intricate pleating), ruffles, one shoulder styles, kimono sleeves, and criss-cross necklines. While hemlines fluctuate from minis to maxis, there seems to be general agreement that knee-length is a good length for spring.

As noted above, the waistline is the center of interest, and this is readily seen in the high-waisted pants, shorts, and skirts that appeared in many collections. These pants will be loosely cut, creating a voluminous almost pajama look. And as with the dresses, belts will define the natural waistline on the high-waisted bottoms. Jackets will become longer, ¾ length or hip-length, and look great in a monochromatic tone over that pencil-thin sheath dress. Less influential, but still important are vested looks, uniform looks, and touches of fur making the season very interesting, yet translatable to the ready-to-wear market.

The Pantone Color Institute has released the Fashion Color Report for spring 2008 which is made up of fresh bright tones and versatile neutrals making for creative color combinations. The one color group that showed up repeatedly for spring 2008 is the purple family. Pantone calls the new spring purple, Spring Crocus. Its pink undertone combines easily with both red tones as seen in Rococo Red and the blue undertone of Pink Mist. Spring often sees a strong impact of navy tones, and this spring is no exception with Snorkel Blue showing a fresh sense of sophistication in a light navy tone. Green tones carry over from winter with the bright yellow-green of Daiquiri Green, and Golden Olive reminding us of eco-awareness. Pantone's spring neutrals range from the complementary Cantaloupe and Croissant tones, to the cheerful golden Freesia, to Silver Gray which continues to anchor the spring palette. Spring 2008 fresh neutrals combined with touches of bright tones create looks that are exciting, inviting, and distinctive; and will make us ready to put away the darker winter tones.

The most important accessory item for spring 2008 will be the belt! As noted above, the waistline will be the center of interest in virtually all categories. Dresses, pants, skirts, and jackets will all be accented with belts. That belt can be wide or narrow, but it will be! Those belts may also be detailed with studs, buckles, metal accents, or even iron maiden locks. While the belt will be the outstanding accessory item, also watch for hats to gain new importance, jewelry items to remain oversized, and vintage-inspired to an become important factor in handbags.

Although this is a very quick review of the spring 2008 collections, there are important trends that pop to the immediate forefront. Dresses, natural waistlines, high-waisted pants and skirts, belts, and oversized jewelry are all defining looks that will be important for the spring 2008 fashion story. While there are some staples that will carry over from the fall/winter season, spring 2008 looks fresh and wearable, and should relate well to the spring ready-to-wear market.

Barbara Borchert is Sales and Marketing Manager for Jewels by Park Lane, a direct sales company selling high quality fashion jewelry since 1955. She has a MBA in Marketing Management from DePaul University and has an extensive background in retail buying and field sales. http://jewelsbyparklane.com/

Ian Flaherty Designer Cufflinks

2010-03-25T19:00:00.001-07:00

Visit Ian at his studio in Lavender Hill Clapham and you'll find him working at the coal face with his subordinates, unafraid to get his hands dirty. A Scouser by birth and the son of a builder he chose a different career path that lead him out of working class Liverpool and into London, the fashion capitol of the world. After designing for many prestigious brand names Ian thought it was time to harness his energies and direct them toward developing his own brand. It's been a long road from Liverpool, now his delightful cufflinks are displayed in some of the most famous department stores around the world, including Selfridges and John Lewis (UK), Nordstroms (USA) David Jones (Australia) plus stores in Japan with un-pronounceable names. The cufflink market is becoming more crowded as designer brands cash in on the growing popularity of men's jewellery. Plus there is the lure of manufacturing in Asia as a way to increase profits, but not without risk of negative effect on your reputation. Increasing profits at your customer's expense does not make good long term business sense. Ian's a big fan of traditional British craftsmanship and prefers the workmanship he gets from his own Battersea studio.

Ian's designs are hand cast in pure English pewter, because it gives the most accurate result. Each item is double plated in rhodium, a precious metal derived from platinum, and polished before being hand-enamelled or inset with Swarovski crystal. Then polished and inspected again to make sure it's flawless. Rhodium prevents tarnishing and adds functionality to form making them extremely hard wearing, less likely to be scarred thus adding value. His cufflinks don't tarnish and neither will his reputation. His customers keep coming back for more precisely because he does not cut corners.

The bespoke market survives amidst a mass manufacturing revolution, delivering products in accordance with an ever growing demand. Other reputable designers are also gaining recognition for their talent, Jo Downs, Babbette Wasserman, Veritas and Tateossian. Their styles differ enough to maintain originality and the majority of their cufflinks are made in England. Ian literally draws his design inspiration from the world around him. He's always looking at patterns and reflections, sketching things that catch his eye as he walks down the street. His designs have been copied, often blatantly by many big names. He continues his work happily labelled the quiet achiever, carving out a name for himself in the fashion rock face of. The only thing that overshadows Ian's immense talent is his sincerity; his working class principles remain intact. Having a pair of his cufflinks in your collection is a must; you'll reveal their unique story each time you bind your links to cuff. Now his cufflinks are available on http://www.patrickmcmurray.com and other quality shops.

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I'm Sorry[A Nick Jonas Love Story] Chapter 4

2010-03-24T16:50:00.001-07:00

I'm Sorry[A Nick Jonas Love Story] Episode 4 *Hayleigh's POV* The next day I woke up really happy. I think that was the best day me and Nick has ever had. We hung out together all day! It was just amazing. I looked over at my alarm clock and it said 8:47. "UGH!" I groaned.I rolled over and wanted to go back to bed but I heard my phone beep. I looked at it and it was a text message from Nick. "Hey Leigh! Im sorry but we arent going to be able to hang out today.too much to do before tour.sorry.love ya,nick!" [love ya is in like a sister/brother way] I huffed and puffed and was ready to blow my house down! I was so excited to hang out with Nick today,so that just put a damper in my day.Now what was I supposed to do today? I just went back to sleep. A little bit later,I finally got up.I had nothing to do today so I decided to call Layla,my best friend..of course,besides Nick (: Layla came over for a while and we watched some home movies.It was a blast. Even though Layla is a year older than me.It was always Layla,Nick,Joe and me. Kevin was too cool to hang out with us when he was older.Whatever! When we were younger,Layla and I would sing a song than Joe and Nick..but mostly Nick. Joe was in the background making funny faces at the camera. We would tell Mr.Jonas to tell us who was better and he would say he couldn't because we were all amazing.YEAH RIGHT!We were like 7 or 8! Watching all of those movies gave me the best feeling ever but watching these almost brought me to ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7KItNtfY58&hl=en

Australian Ugg Boots - A Fashion Craze

2010-03-23T15:00:00.001-07:00

Australian Ugg boots have to be one of the strangest fashion trends ever, not that there is anything wrong with them, as boots they are really fantastic but they just seem a bit odd in comparison with other fashion crazes. One thing that they do have in common with other fashionable items is that if you want the real thing you have to pay seriously real money!

The boots all have the same shape but are available in a multitude of different colours. To wear they have to be amongst the most comfortable boots ever! Inside they are lined with soft fur like fabric making them extremely cosy in cold winter days. There are lots of cheap copies flooding the market but if you are keen on buying a pair of Ugg boots treat yourself to the real thing it is worth it for the quality.

Recently my daughter received a pair of pale pink coloured boots as a gift from a friend who lives in Australia. My daughter thinks they are absolutely wonderful, you see we have hard wood floors in our old cottage and it can be fairly draughty and cold in the winter so she wears them instead of slippers! They are very light to wear and very cosy and the soles have a really good grip.

If wearing boots round the house in winter is not for you can actually buy slippers made from the same type of fabric which are just as comfortable and warm. These are available across Australia and a store called Nordstrom's in the States also sell them. Prices do vary so it is worth shopping around for the best deal and selection of colours etc. One note of caution, there are lots of imitation products on the market if you want the real deal you have to ensure they are Australian.

As with any product you can also find Ugg Boots on the internet, there are many websites selling authentic boots and you will also find them on e Bay, if you are lucky you might even find a web site offering free shipping. If you order boots from an Australian source be prepared to pay a substantial amount for shipping. If you have a relative or friend living in Australia they may be able to pick them up cheaply in a sale and ship them by sea. It will take longer but it is a much cheaper method of shipping.

To find details and compare prices visit http://ukpricecomparisonsites.com

Facts About Kilts You Weren't Aware Of

2010-03-22T14:30:00.001-07:00

There was a lot said about kilts and their history. But some facts might not be known more commonly. And kilts is that type of cloth that has an interesting history and many secret facts that is worth to know.

Irish says that there were the one that first gave Scots this type of wearing. So do English people - they also see themselves as kilts inventors and give themselves a credit for this outfit. And what is the truth?

There are some evidence that shows Irish men and English men as the kilt first wearers. Even evidences from 11th centuries. Unfortunately, those evidence aren't written one but also pictures that are showing probably something else than kilts. So what was the first real document about kilt?

First mentions about feilidh-malo or balted plaid (type of woollen cloth) was found in "Life of Red Hugh O'Donnell" by Lughaidha O'Clery from 16th century. More specifically this cloth was a heavy shawl that
was worn from the top to the bottom of the body, bounding it.

This shows that kilt couldn't be known in its first form in 13th century or even in 14th. This also means that kilt couldn't be worn by a great hero William Walace. So Irish men couldn't wear it before 16th century at first place.

Written sources from 17th centuries shows that belted plaid was universal outfit of Scottish highlanders. It was a very long piece of material cause it led from knees, to tail and on arms. It was not sawn, just a piece of long, strong and thick material. But when this plaid became present kilt?

First mentions about sewing kilts (not exactly as they look today) comes from 1792. Now this two hundreds year old piece of cloth belongs to Scottish Tartan Society. It is not exactly the same as we have today but it is sure that the kilt wasn't invented by English or Scots - today's kilt comes from Scottish belted plaid.

If you are interested in kilts you might also like Harris Tweed Jacket - all to find at Highlandstore.com

DJ BENTO @ CHINESE LAUNDRY 2009

2010-03-21T13:50:00.001-07:00

This is DJ Bento LIVE @ Chinese Laundry on the 30th October 2009! DJ Bento toured the east coast of Australia during October 30th -7th November 2009! 30th October 2009 - Friday- Chinese Laundry (Sydney) 31st October 2009- Saturday- Tattersalls Hotel/Curlys Bar (Tasmania- Hobart) 7th November 2009 -Saturday -Tombas Nightclub (Brisbane) You can Download DJ Bento's mixtape by clicking on this link: www.mediafire.com Visit DJ Bento @ www.myspace.com Short Bio As co-creator of Hollywood, Japan's premiere all mix party, DJ Bento smashes genre classifications to keep the party moving until the morning light. Known for exciting both international and domestic crowds all over Asia and Europe mixing his party rocking blend of hip hop, house, electro, nostalgia and rock, DJ Bentos remains one of Asias busiest djs with not only his wildly successful parties all over Japan but also as a resident DJ for 55DDSL, Ed Hardy, Red Bull and Puma throughout Asia. DJ Bento brings a true party vibe to any venue with not only a unique selection and intricate mixing skills but also with old school crowd control on the mic to engage the audience and turn the party out. In the last year, DJ Bento has traveled extensively playing guest DJ engagements at top clubs in Hong Kong, Istanbul, Osaka, New York, Miami, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Kyoto, Kobe, Tokyo and Shanghai. Further, recent engagements have seen DJ Bento performing alongside a diverse group of internationally renowned djs representing a ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOEGbktIhf8&hl=en

DJ Bento

2010-03-20T10:00:00.001-07:00

This is an all exclusive DJ Bento interview! DJ Bento will be touring in Australia from October 30th -7th November 2009! 30th October 2009 - Friday- Chinese Laundry (Sydney) 31st October 2009- Saturday- Tattersalls Hotel/Curlys Bar (Tasmania- Hobart) 7th November 2009 -Saturday -Tombas Nightclub (Brisbane) You can Download DJ Bento's mixtape by clicking on this link: www.mediafire.com Visit DJ Bento @ www.myspace.com Short Bio As co-creator of Hollywood, Japan's premiere all mix party, DJ Bento smashes genre classifications to keep the party moving until the morning light. Known for exciting both international and domestic crowds all over Asia and Europe mixing his party rocking blend of hip hop, house, electro, nostalgia and rock, DJ Bentos remains one of Asias busiest djs with not only his wildly successful parties all over Japan but also as a resident DJ for 55DDSL, Ed Hardy, Red Bull and Puma throughout Asia. DJ Bento brings a true party vibe to any venue with not only a unique selection and intricate mixing skills but also with old school crowd control on the mic to engage the audience and turn the party out. In the last year, DJ Bento has traveled extensively playing guest DJ engagements at top clubs in Hong Kong, Istanbul, Osaka, New York, Miami, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Kyoto, Kobe, Tokyo and Shanghai. Further, recent engagements have seen DJ Bento performing alongside a diverse group of internationally renowned djs representing a wide spectrum of sounds ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mn81gQOWVqQ&hl=en

GYPSY THING'S EVERY GYPSY SHOULD HAVE!

2010-03-19T09:10:00.001-07:00

bobbydo7777 panicatthediscogirls bobalfies1 sweepesaprano thebobbybeepershow thegaryandalexshow vivalacoris momie-lupe gypsy homer loves honey. bodywork Sodme peedogo dannyfender gypsybasso burgerking lilcharlies gypsyladies gypsyladiez bigdickwilly youtube!TM johngonde-lilmike-sonnybobwallace-EDY50-~Ed Hardy~ chicken wings BONDO 10,0000$ (GYPSY BOB AND BONNIES WEDDING) cuzziecardanz bobjohnnyboys1021 barryjohnnyboys17 bobalfies1 sonnybones MC-mike biggiesmalls pastorstevemiller gypsynightlife

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9geC_KVFZ7g&hl=en

Haul! Ulta products, covergirl, ed hardy etc..

2010-03-18T05:00:00.001-07:00

ed hardy comb $7 cover girl makeup $5.99 each nyc top coat nail polish .99 2 Ulta glitter eyeliner pencils (black) .49 each clearance 1 opi lincoln park after dark nail polish $8.50 (matte) 1 opi shorts story nail polish $3.99 clearance 1 rimmel lightbeam lip gloss in strobe light 2.99 clearance all these products were purchased by me!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvmMqD5A8lA&hl=en

The Advantages of Attending a Fashion Show

2010-03-16T20:50:00.001-07:00

For some people a great time means having a party, then for others it is just being themselves and watching the latest movie or reading a book that they like. Even so, for others, there specific idea of having fun is going to a fashion show.

It is often found to be true that you might find yourself ending up being a fashion show addict after just one show. A fashion show is not just simply numerous hours of sitting and watching attractive woman walk down the catwalk in extreme outfits. It is a great deal more fun than that. You even have the opportunity to get a lot out of the show as well.

Latest News In Fashion

Clearly, if you go to a fashion show, you will get to view the latest fashions. This can assist you, even if you're not a fashion sellout. This can help you out by giving you an idea of what particular fashion is in at the moment. Even though you may not be particularly interested in what everyone is wearing, you might be inspired to update your wardrobe just a little bit more or find some idea for a fashion that is uniquely your own.

Additionally, a fashion show can provide good entertainment when you find that the latest fashion is, well, hideous. How much fun do you think it will be to have a good laugh with your family and friends about some model who appeared wearing a lion mask and a tail when you get back home?

Goodie Bags

Even though not all fashion shows provide them, some fashion shows give out goodie bags to their attendees. Who doesn't like free stuff? Even though you may not like all the things that goodie bag has in it, you can re-gifted at some later point to someone who you know will like it. The bigger and better the name of the fashion show, the bigger and better the goodie bag they will hand out.

Meeting People

Fashion shows typically end up being excellent social gatherings. First off, you might be able to make some new friends. You might realize that your new best friend was sitting right next to you at a fashion show admiring the same male or female model (as the case may be) that you were. Even better than that, you might meet some important people.

I am not just speaking about the beautiful models, fashion designers, or guest appearances by celebrities. I am referring to important people who could quite possibly shape your career. For example, if you've been trying to break into journalism. There might just be a newspaper editor reporting at the show. Making a social connection with them could give you a jump start into a possible job.

Going to a fashion show might not be your idea of fun or your 'cup of tea' as the saying goes. Nevertheless, everyone should at least go to one. You might find a new trend you would like to try out, meet someone that is life-changing, or even realized your newfound love of fashion.

If you end up not enjoying the show, you can always head back home and vow to never go to one again. Regardless, you'll have some type of funny story to share later in life and now you will not be able to say that you have never seen one before.

Listen to Korbin Newlyn as he shares his insights as an expert author and an avid writer in the field of fashion. If you would like to learn more go to Fashion Drawing advice and at Mens Fashion tips.

Famous Rod Stewart Interview

2010-03-15T14:20:00.001-07:00

This Interview was made as a demo for Musiqueplus. Rod Stewart was kind enough to give me a few of his minutes to cover his new release "Rock'n Old" even though he looked a little sick. The Interview was conducted in french as Mr. Stewart perfectly understands French yet cannot speak it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5mrQMkYjP4&hl=en

Im yours to hold [A Jemi Love Stoy] Epi1 PREVIEW

2010-03-14T08:30:00.001-07:00

NO COPYRIGHT INTENDED I DONT OWN ANY OF THIS AUDIO SOUNDTRAC. NO COPY RIGHT INTENDED. Ok people so this is just a PREVIEW of what to expect if you choose to start reading my series, it would be greatly apprciated. Check out my channel, and subscribe please. If you think its boring, it gets better later in Ep1, which comes out on Sunday. I will try to post a new Epi every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday, I realize this vid is coming out a day early, or a day late how ever you want to look at it. But I fell alseep last night when I was finishing the video, so I had to do it today, and I couldnt wait until Thursday to put it out! Lolz. ON TO THE PREVIEW: [Demi's POV] "BEEP....BEEP....BEEP....BEEP" My alarm clock blairs. And I slowly emerge from the deep sleep I was in. When I register my thoughts I realize that today is the first day of Junior year. I jump out of bed and run to my closet. Jeans: Form fitting, blue, simple, but cute. Top: Low cut V neck graphic tee. Off to the bathroom, I apply all my makeup and head downstairs. Moms still sleeping, im guessing she wont be awake for another couple hours, another night drinking till she passes out... Sometimes I wish dad was still here, atleast her problem was more under control when he could be sober with her. I go into the cupboard and grab some cereal, I pour the Cheerios into a bowl and scarf it down. Grab my keys and head out the door, cant be late first day back! [Joe's POV] My alarm sounds, but I am already awake. I look ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAYWkJ69fHY&hl=en

Lesbian Celebrity Hairstyles - Check Out The Different Styles

2010-03-13T05:30:00.001-08:00

Lesbian Celebrity Hairstyles have set the trend for many fashion conscious women around the world of all sexual persuasions. And with good reason! If you're wondering what hairstyle is in fashion, then looking at the various celebrity hairstyles is a very cool place to begin.

But, there are some important things to consider before you copy those particular hairstyles whether you're looking at lesbian celebrity hairstyles or what others.

Copying Celebrity Hairstyles - Mistake #1 - Too High Maintenance

Do you have a team of hair care professionals on call to tidy up your hair at a moment's notice? If not, don't expect your hairstyle to remain looking fabulous all day. If you like the look of a particular celebrity hairstyle, ask your hairstylist how much work is involved in producing and maintaining the end result! It could be more than you've bargained for!

Copying Celebrity Hairstyles - Mistake #2 - Wrong Style For Your Face Shape

Does your shape face suit the particular celebrity hairstyle you like? It may look absolutely great on your favorite lesbian celebrity but it may do nothing enhancing for your look!. Here are the different shape faces to consider: oval, rond, rectangular/oblong, square, heart-shaped, triangular, and diamond. (Keep reading to discover how you can quickly and easily test out for sure, how the different hairstyles would suit your face):

Copying Celebrity Hairstyles - Mistake #3 - Avoid Trying to Make Your Hair Something It Just Isn't!

Is your hair type suited to the lesbian celebrity hairstyle that you'd like? Some styles are created by the use of a flat-iron to get the straight look. If you want a style that is dead straight and you have hair with a natural curl, this is going to take some time!

On the other hand, if you want the romantic, long locks of curls and your hair hasn't a single wave to it, you're going to need a salon semi-perm or daily curling. Try to find a celebrity hairstyle that fits your hair type for ease of maintenance.

Copying Celebrity Hairstyles Of 2006 - Mistake #4 - Get A Different Hairstyle Without Being Sure What It Will Really Look Like On You

Nothing is worse than the acute embarrassment of a hairstyle that looks out of place with YOUR face! And let's face it - you're not going to really know, until it's possibly too late!

But the internet has made it possible for you to actually get a very good idea of what different celebrity hairstyles would look like on YOU! Services are available where you can quickly and easily upload a picture of your head and shoulders, and the internet program will display different hairstyles on your photo, so you can make a careful and informed choice, and avoid any painful embarrassment!

See the links below to discover how you can choose from amongst the famous celebrity hairstyles, including choosing from lesbian celebrity hairstyles, and make the best one for you, yours!

Upload Your Photo To Try On 5,000 Hairstyles! FREE Demo

http://www.thehairstyler.com

Dress Right For Your Body Type

2010-03-12T05:00:00.001-08:00

Knowing how to dress to flatter your body type as well as being aware of which styles to avoid are essential in establishing your individual style and personality in clothing. The key to buying and wearing good clothes is the fit of the clothes on your body shape. If the clothes are cut well, drape and fall correctly on you, that means that they fit you well and will make you stand out. If not, then even the most expensive article of clothing will be a waste.

To look good and feel good, determine your body type, body shape and skin color and see what suits you the best. Selecting the right type of fabric with suitable textures will also help in determining what looks good on you.

For the slightly pudgy:

Avoid horizontal and diagonal stripes. Focus instead on vertical stripes for both shirts and trousers, which give an illusion of elongation and thus make you look slimmer.

Avoid double vented jackets - These are jackets with two slits at the back and should be avoided if one has a large backside, which needs to be covered. To cover a wide posterior, and highlight your body shape, a single vented jacket or one without any vents is preferred.

Buy clothes that fit - Do not wear very tight fitting clothes, which will only accentuate your flab. On the other hand, overly large sizes will make you look bigger and fatter than you already are. Thus the key is to wear clothes that skim your body shape and fit well.

Color coordination - To appear slimmer than you actually are, try and wear shirts and trousers of the same color or similar rather than contrasts. It gives a cleaner visual appearance leading to a slimmer effect.

For the slightly heavier-set individual

Avoid turtlenecks and go for sweaters, open, V-necked shirts and long sleeved tops.
Avoid large and busy prints, which always emphasize the top and the front drawing attention to the largeness of your size.

Wearing a belt will narrow your waist and make it look slimmer

For the tall and thin

Wear horizontal striped shirts and trousers, which will help to add bulk to your body. Moreover, a solid, single stripe across the chest will give the appearance of broader shoulders and flatter your torso.

Avoid monochromatic colors, which make you look thinner than you are. Bold colors and contrasts fill your body.

Wear fitted clothes - Slim cut shirts combined with a good layering technique will serve to accentuate your physique and body shape

For the short man

Choose light colors - White, creams, beige, light blues and greys add bulk and make you look larger than you are.

Avoid skinny and tight fitting jeans

Wear heeled and square-toed shoes to look bigger and taller. The pant leg should be long enough to cover the heel making you appear taller than normal.

Avoid large prints - They overwhelm and tend to drown you in the busyness of the print.
Wear slimmer and shorter ties

Obviously, every individual wants to try out a new and trendy outfit, once in a while. But the fact of the matter is that if it does not look good on you, flatter your body shape and skin color, its not worth it. Wear what suits you and focuses on your individual style optimally. Following the basics mentioned above will help you to choose your clothes, dress well and look outstanding.

William Brister - http://www.menswear.tv - A guide to male style.

Leah McSweeney talks Married to the Mob with the Boss Lady (watch in HQ)

2010-03-11T03:40:00.001-08:00

Leah mcsweeney is one of the few leading females in the urban fashion industry. Leah taps on her infamous story to her success, and it may not be what you think. Either way, she is head bitch of Married to the Mob.drjays.com - Ed Hardy, Baby Phat, Akademiks, Apple Bottoms, Sean John, Coogi, LRG, Blac Label, Rocawear & more. Fulfill your fashion needs at great prices. Ships internationally :) Think you got style? Streetstyle.com Check out DJPREMIUM.com for premium brands: Christian Audigier, Diesel, Charlotte Ronson, Betsey Johnson, Antik Denim, Frankie B., Miss Sixty, True Religion and MORE! ***FREE SHIPPING***

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22gUaKRuGWg&hl=en

Why It Is Important For Teenagers To Learn To Dress For Success Too

2010-03-10T00:40:00.001-08:00

Most articles dealing with dressing for success are aimed at adults but there are times that teens can benefit from these ideas. As a teenager, you will be faced with many new things such as job interviews and college admission interviews. You will need to exhibit a degree of professionalism and confidence to be successful in these endeavors.

When it comes to job interviews, teenagers may even need to dress for success more so than adults. Most teenagers look for summer employment and employers receive a multitude of applications for those jobs available. To stand out from the crowd, you will need to make a good impression on the prospective employer. You have to convince them that you are the right person for the job.

A well-written resume is a good starting point for the job search but the greatest way to stand out is to dress for success during the job interview. Most businesses are looking for people who show them professionalism, confidence, and determination. The best way to show this to a prospective employer is by dressing for success. This tells that employer that you are serious about the prospect of working for them.

College admission interviews or scholarship reviews are another vital area where dressing for success can make a huge difference for a teenager. The goal is to make a good impression on the interviewer. Whether it means getting the needed financial aid or getting into the most prestigious colleges, when you dress for success it can make all the difference. Just as in a job interview, dressing for success in a college interview shows the admissions officer that you are serious about your education and would be a good candidate for enrollment.

One way for a teenager to get ideas on how to dress for success is to browse through some adult fashion magazines. Every month there are great articles on how to put outfits together in a stylish manner without spending a lot of money. While teen magazines highlight the latest trends, the adult magazines will give you a better sense of what will work in a business setting.

Another great resource for teenagers is the adults that you know. While most teens don't get fashion tips from their parents, they are the best source for dress for success advice. Who wants you to succeed more than you mother or father? Your parents will be invaluable for honest opinions on what looks good on you and good to other adults. After all, your interview will be with another adult.

You can be sure that if your parents don't care for your clothing choices or style, then a prospective employer or college admissions officer isn't going to either. First impressions can be a large factor in whether you get the job you want or get admitted to the college of your choice. You need to dress for success in order to show the interviewer that you are serious and professional.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wife and family in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about fashion, style as well as shoe fashion magazine at http://www.shoefashionmagazine.com

Manolo Blahnik & His Shoes - Who is He?

2010-03-08T17:30:00.001-08:00

Have you heard of Manolo Blahnik? For those of you that don't know his is one of the best known and well loved high fashion shoe designers. Because of his unique style, his shoes have become extremely popular among women from all walks of life.

Manolo Blahnik believes that every one of his styles must have his unique stamp to them, so of the thousands of shoes that come out under his name, he adds his own personal touch. His shoes have become known for their unique, personal style since they were first launched on the market.
He is solely responsible for every one of his unique designs. He works alone with absolutely no help from an apprentice or an assistant. He sketches out every model then he fabricates his own prototype, using wooden lasts and sculpted heels on which the shoe is formed. Then he supervises all of the production, and even does the sketching for his advertising campaigns.

The Manolo Blahnik Story

Manolo Blahnik was born on the Canary Islands in 1942 and was brought up on a banana plantation. He happened to be home school because there were no nearby neighbors or towns, although the family traveled to Paris and Madrid several times a year, and at that time his parents would buy clothes from Cristobal Balenciaga, and the special tailor his father used. But there were times when the family could not get to the city, and at such times his mother would improvise. She even asked a local cobbler to teach her how to make espadrilles using ribbons and laces. He would sit a watch with fascination as she would make them. He also loved to peruse the fashion magazines she would receive, which always came a month late.

His parents wanted him to become a diplomat and enrolled him in University in Geneva and at first he began his Law studies with enthusiasm, but after a couple of months he decided to change and took subjects in literature and architecture. In 1965 he left for Paris and decided to study art. He held several part time jobs in order to make ends meet. After graduating he went to New York. At first he didn't have much luck. His friend Paloma Picasso sent him to see Diana Vreeland of Vogue, and she thought his drawings were amusing, but suggested he pursue his career creating shoes.

Soon Manolo Blahniks shoes were sought after by celebrities like Marisa Berenson, and Charlotte Rampling. Even Lauren Bacall started looking for his unique designs. As his shoes became more and more popular he started teaming with a shoe manufacturer in London that was known for its ability to make shoes well. Today Blahniks style is known as avant guard, and yet solidly stylish so that the styles will be wearable for a long time.

Early in his career he took the time to really master the art of shoe making. He found the best factories to work with and learned how to create and carve his own designs. He began to work with designers who focused on the younger generation, like Calvin Klein, and this helped him give his designs that modern edge, yet keep their classic elegance.

Today he still focuses on designing every shoe he puts out on the market. He sketches the shoe with the use of a Japanese brush pen and then carves the prototype out of beech wood. He says that what makes his designs truly unique is that he really understands the shoe process, and has been making shoes for more than 20 years, so he has honed his craft and with reason is called one of the best.

Luckily there are places on the web where discount Manolo Blahnik shoes can be found. If it is womens designer shoes at discount prices that you search for, look no further. There is huge selection available in one easy to find place.

Forever: NASCAR Tattoos

2010-03-07T16:30:00.001-08:00

Project Forever follows the fans of NASCAR by telling their stories through their tattoos. On one day in Arizona we walked around the parking lot with one goal discover who these fans by talking to them about their ink. We took scores of photos and interviews and this is what we came up with. We plan to continue this idea with a little more funding.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8DPwgfgsEg&hl=en

Miami's First Edible Bikini

2010-03-06T15:50:00.001-08:00

To promote the Ed Hardy designer swimwear line created by French designer Christian Audigier, the good people at Ed Hardy Swimwear put together an "only in Miami" fashion fantasy event - "Miami's First Edible Bikini". Done in association with Sushi Samba (one of the hot spots on Miami Beachs trendy Lincoln Road) a savory, two-piece edible replica of Ed Hardys 2010 Trellis suit was unveiled on a basking beauty soaking up the sun. Inspired by the urban streets and influenced by Japan, Brazil and Peru, sweet tropical hues of yellow and pinks were represented by beets, reds with strawberries, dark hues by blueberries and greens by banana leaf accents.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9IyaDYNVes&hl=en

You Belong With Me:A Nelena Story 21 Season 2

2010-03-05T15:10:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1s393j1k6s&hl=en

Co-op, Collectible and Antique Stores

2010-03-03T11:40:00.001-08:00

Co-ops, Collectible and Antique stores are great place to look for books. If you live near a large city yo might find 30 to 40 stores of this type. All of the owners of these stores or co-ops have their own routes and this means you have people looking and searching in areas that you are not able to get to.

Let's say you're looking for the 1960's tan Hardy Boys series. You let it be known to several of the dealers that you want to purchase this type of collectible. Some will eventually show up.

Collectible and rare books all show up in these stores. Rare book dealers and used store owners will also show up to look, so the competition can be tough. All you can do is to add it to your route and hit it when ever you pass by. Books are always being added and its only a matter time before you pick up a couple of treasures.

Skills in pricing are always helpful when you are dealing with a lot of books. If you are buying to resale for a profit then you need to go to school on in general so you have an idea of what you are doing. You can make money, but there is a learning curve that will make you a smarter and more successful buyer.

Now I do not want to offend any of the dealers who have booths in these co-ops, but they are learning too as you cannot expect to know everything about all antiques. A glass dealer, who really knows glass, will come across a box of books really cheap, and throws them in her booth. Why not? Everybody sells books.

Everybody has their own favorite stops where they hunt for interesting and collectible reads. You just have to go everywhere until you find out where you get your best books and then concentrate on these sources.

The rule of thumb is to never pass up anyplace where books tend to show up. You never know what you will find. This has been proven over and over again.!

I recommend highly investigating being a full time or part time Book Scout. If you need $20 or $100 tomorrow a book scout is trained to put cash in their pockets everyday. Book Sellers need books. When a Book Scout knows the tricks of the business, they can put cash in their pocket everyday. I know, I was a full time Book Scout and owned two Used Book Stores for over then years. If you need more information take a look at http://www.makecashsellingbookstoday.com/

CRUISING ON A JONAS BROTHERS LOVE STORY chp 51

2010-03-02T08:40:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZv-fQzbtGs&hl=en

Disney/WWE Episode 4 [Jemi/Nelena/Niley/Edge/Orton Story

2010-03-01T00:40:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dcc6JPYQ46E&hl=en

The History of Men's Underwear

2010-02-27T23:10:00.001-08:00

Every morning as men around the globe dress for work, it can be relatively safely assumed that few, if any of them give much thought to the actual origins of their underwear that they put on. The history of mens underwear, is in fact, a fantastic story that is still unfolding to this very day.

It begins with the basic loin cloth. The first documented examples of this basic, yet highly functional garment hail from the tombs of ancient Egypt. However; it can be safely assumed that men actually began to wear a loin cloth around the time that they created the first fabrics.

As time progressed and men began to cover themselves with more clothing, both out of necessity and an evolving sense of style, they tended to leave their loin cloth on. Although it was a much lighter loin cloth, it served the function of protecting this delicate area of the body from the rough wool and animal skins that earlier garments were made from.

The transition of earlier tribal societies from hunting and gathering to organized agricultural economies played a major role in the development of more elaborate types and styles of clothing. As outer garments and leggings began to evolve into what might be recognized today as the beginnings of trousers, the light loin cloth began to evolve also.

The bulky wrap around loin cloth that worked so well for centuries now looked and felt bulky under a stylish grain farmers pants as he strolled down the path, headed for the local village. This is when the first prototypes of what would eventually evolve into todays modern mens underwear were developed.

They were light, short legged pants that were most likely made from cotton of soft wool. They would be worn under the more heavier outer pants and were held on by a tie string that wrapped around the waist. These prototypes of todays modern mens underwear weren't sold in stores, but rather, they were made at home or by the local seamstress if someone had the means to pay for them.

Mens underwear, as they are known today made their first appearance at the dawn of the industrial age. This when whole societies first began to march off to work in the morning and then return back home in the evening. It was the early to mid 1800's and on Fridays the men all stood in line at the factory office to receive their paycheck.

With the advent of the industrial age and the paychecks that it created, also came the mass manufacturing of clothing and the very first sweatshops. It was in these first garment manufacturing shops that things like elastic waistbands were developed and first installed on underwear that was packaged up and sold out of the first clothing stores.

It was in these stores that the first factory workers of the industrial age spent some of their earnings on their underwear. During those earlier times 1850-1900, the preferred choice in underwear was the "long john" that covered from shoulders to ankles.

World War One, it turns out, would be the impetus for change that gave birth to "jockey shorts". It was American solders affinity for a shorter, compact and more comfortable regulation issued style of underwear that brought about a change in the style of underwear that men around the globe now wear.

MyShreddies.com are the creators of stylish, supportive underwear for men. View the range of mens boxer shorts on the website.

Three Baby Shower Gifts They Won't Expect

2010-02-26T17:30:00.001-08:00

I love baby showers. I love the idea of helping an expectant mother prepare for the arrival of her unborn child. I love sitting with a bunch of women as they trade mommy stories, play silly games, and eat yummy food. But what I don't like is watching one gift after another open only to discover it's the same theme: diapers, baby bottles, baby clothes. I've always prided myself on discovering unique gifts that both mommy and baby can use-maybe not the minute baby is born but eventually, when all the other gifts have long been forgotten. And these three items are sure to add a new twist to the words, "baby shower gift"...

OnTray
By Laura Hamrick
ontray2go.com

Whether you're an advent coupon clipper, a frugal shopper with a calculator and buying list, or a mom with young children, you'll want to get an OnTray(TM).

This little tray is amazingly simple to use and yet, it saves so many headaches. Simply attach the clip to the shopping cart handlebar and your hands free. No more bending over to pick up dropped baggies of snacks, no more bending over to pick up calculators that have slipped through the cracks on the seat, and no more little one's whining because they're bored or hungry.

The tray can be used to hold snacks, coupons, crayons and a pad, action figures, and so much more. And the best part is that it isn't bulky. It doesn't take up a lot of room so your child can still sit comfortably in the shopping cart. In fact, you can put two OnTrays side by side-one for you and one for your child-and still have plenty of room.

So the next time you're doing a little grocery shopping, think about how much easier it would be to have a little tray, then go home and hop online to order an OnTray(TM) for yourself-heck, you may even want to get a couple for gifts. I promise you won't be disappointed!

Snak Trap
By Christine Moss
snacktrap.com

I have to admit that when I first saw The Snack Trap(TM) I didn't think it would work. After all, the lid seemed flimsy and the hole looked as though the food would just force its way out when dropped or tipped over. But I've dropped it, turned it upside down, and shoved my large adult hand in and out of the lid...and guess what happened? I pleasantly found the lid works! This is an amazing product and my only regret is that it wasn't invented sooner!

Every parent's worst nightmare is finding his/her child has stashed an entire year's worth of finger foods under his/her car seat or having to follow that child around the house picking up the trail he/she has left behind.

While The Snack Trap(TM) was originally invented for toddlers, I have to admit that I find it the perfect solution for snacking at my desk! How many times have we, as adults, brought a cup of small snacks to the desk only to knock them over while looking for an item or reaching for that cup?

The next time you're out shopping for the perfect baby shower gift, Christmas stocking stuffer, or just because gift, for a toddler in your life, buy The Snack Trap(TM).

10 Minute Menu
By Kathleen Peters
10minutemenu.com

Are you tired of wasting your hard-earned money on restaurant and fast-food bills? Do you find grocery shopping to be your least favorite chore? With 10 Minute Menu, you'll not only find grocery shopping more desirable, but you'll learn to cut your grocery bill in half, save hundreds of dollars by eating in, and waste less food.

When I first opened the 10 Minute Menu Planner, I have to admit that I was overwhelmed. With my busy lifestyle, the idea of putting together a meal plan just didn't appeal to me. After all, who had time to scour recipe books, make the initial shopping list, and set up the menu planner? So I put off the review.

Then after countless trips to the refrigerator where I'd literally open and close the refrigerator in exasperation, I decided to give the 10 Minute Menu a try.

Each planner comes with everything you need to plan meals for an entire month, but what makes the system unique is that you aren't eating meals you've never tried. You're picking your family's favorites and incorporating them into a plan that works for your busy lifestyle. Then once everything is in place, it literally takes seconds to prepare evening meals. Which means...

You guessed it! Busy parents have more time to spend with their kids!

One thing I did different with the system was type and print out my recipes, using a 9 point font. I then cut and glued the recipes to the cards provided in the kit; that way, I didn't have to flip through recipe books and magazines, thus saving me even more time!

Alyice Edrich is a freelance writer. Visit her resume site at http://alyiceedrich.net to hire her for your next project. Or visit her online e-bookstore store http://thedabblingmumpress.com to learn about running a business from home.

What's in a Name? Where Do You Want to Retire?

2010-02-25T15:00:00.001-08:00

A good friend asked me an interesting question about where I would want to retire based on names.......so I went on a binge and tore out some maps and then did some research and found all these actual places in the good old U.S. of A.........these are all real names of towns in the United States and I'm sure there are great stories behind them. I hope you get a good laugh from them!

PLACES I DON'T WANT TO RETIRE

Deadhorse, Eek, Floss, Goobertown, Tuba City, Gassville, Greasy Corner, Grubbs, Bivalve, Fort Dick. Blue Ball, Yellow Water, Roachtown, Beans Corner Bingo, Hell, Slaughterville, Bird-in-Hand, Drab, Looneyville, Spread Eagle, Embarrass, Nothing, Surprise, Why, Bald Knob, Flippin, Toad Suck, Weiner, Yellville, Turkey Scratch, Bummerville, Frying Pan, Gas Point, Squabbletown, Gnaw Bone, Crummies, Rabbit Hash, Typo, Cut-Off, Cut -n- Shoot, Ding Dong, Dry Prong, Fort Crook, Tick Bite, Lizard Lick, Idiotville, Colon, Jigger, Satan's Kingdom, and the infamous Nimrod!

PLACES WHERE I DO WANT TO RETIRE

Intercourse, Carefree, Goodyear, Hooker, Romance, Okay, Chiquita, Confidence, Cool, Date City, Eureka, Fair Play, Grand, Hallelujah Junction, Humptulips, Hardy, Harmony, Climax, Security, Little Heaven, Niceville, Okahumpka, Panacea, Cumming, Butts, Beer Bottle Crossing, Threeway, Wonder Lake, French Lick, Jugville, Oddville, Assawoman Bay, Eden, Paradise, Coffeeville, Tightwad, Humansville, Pleasant Hope, Bigfork, Big Sky, Sweetgrass, Opportunity, Short Pump, Simplicity, Beaver Crossing, Virginville, Valentine, Wahoo, Jackpot, Good Intent, Love Ladies, Neversink, Wise, Needmore, Fear Not, Happy, Nuttsville, Veribest, Sweet Lips, Zig Zag, and what the heck Whynot, Knockemstiff!

Nick Oliva (O-lee-va’) has been a musician, composer, photographer, an audio engineer, an Entertainment Director and Technical Director for over twenty-five years and is a successful self-made money manager. Website: View my blog and buy my latest book at http://www.onlymomentsbook.com

Classic Men's Wallets That Never Go Out Of Style

2010-02-24T14:20:00.001-08:00

I know most men do not put much thought into choosing the wallet he uses. After all, it's just something that carries your cold hard cash. But to me, the wallet is arguably a man's most essential accessory and the wallet he carries says a lot about him and his personal style.

So regardless of you're buying a wallet for yourself or as a gift, you should really take your time to pick a good one. It'll accompany you for many years to come.

Women are clearly spoilt for choice when it comes to handbags and small leather goods. Every season, designers crack their brain to come up the "It" bag that will be the object of every woman's desire.

As guys, we aren't that fortunate. We don't have that many designers clamoring for our attention. But it doesn't mean we don't have choices. In fact there are men's wallets and small leather goods that never go out of style.

I find these timeless classics very appealing because there's always an interesting story behind its success. They may not come cheap but they'll certainly elevate your status in the style department.

Meisterstuck by Montblanc

Montblanc turned 100 in 2006 and there are many reasons to celebrate. The success of the legendary Meisterstuck fountain pen launched in 1924 helped Montblanc become the de-facto market leader of fine writing instruments.

Today, Montblanc is more than just a maker of fine writing instruments. The company has launched its leather goods, its fine watches, eyewear, fragrance and even jewelry.

Montblanc's foray into leather goods started in 1935 when it acquired a producer of leather ware in Germany. Riding on the success of its Meisterstuck fountain pen, Montblanc launched the Meisterstuck leather collection.

Using black calfskin fitted with its signature "star" logo, Montblanc creates a masculine line of fine leather goods that is an instant hit with its predominantly male clientele.

Must de Cartier by Cartier

Well-known for its jewelry and fine watches, Cartier is one of the top luxury brands in the world and its products are associated with very, very high price tags.

1974 was the year Cartier made a comeback in the world of leather goods with the Must de Cartier line. The color burgundy, with a slight raspberry hue, was chosen as a logical continuation to the Cartier red for this must-have collection of fine leather goods. Burgundy soon became the new black.

The influential Bordeaux color, the iconic double 'C' logo, and the distinctive gold hardware make the Must de Cartier line a timeless classic.

But to be honest, Must de Cartier is not for the weak-hearted. Not every guy feels comfortable carrying a burgundy wallet with gold adornments.

Monogrammed Canvas by Louis Vuitton

With more than 100 years of history, Louis Vuitton monogrammed canvas must be the classic of all classics. And no matter what Louis Vuitton does to the monogrammed canvas, it still sells like hot cakes.

They splattered the canvas with graffiti. They planted red cherries on the canvas. They painstakingly sewed the motifs on denim. And they got Takeshi Murakami who reinterpreted the motif in brilliant rainbow colors. It seems like you can't go wrong with the monogrammed canvas.

Unfortunately they don't have a good selection of men's wallets in monogrammed canvas so your choices are rather limited.

Pocone Nylon by Prada

It was in 1978 when Miuccia Prada took over the dusty luggage business from her grandfather. Under her helm, Prada became a luxury powerhouse with far-reaching influence in the world of fashion.

The world took notice when Prada made a handbag out of black waterproof Pocone nylon. Fitted with its distinctive triangular logo plate, nylon never looked so good. Miuccia Prada single-handedly made nylon luxurious.

Of course, I'm not expecting you to carry the popular nylon handbag. Prada does make nice nylon wallets trimmed with cowhide for men. Although it's now available in many different colors, black is always a classic.

Woven Leather by Bottega Veneta

Once a second-tier brand in the Gucci Group's stable, Bottega Veneta has become the group's rising star. With its ultra-exclusive and elitist appeal, Bottega Veneta is poised to become the next Hermes.

Recreating the brand's popular woven bags from the 1970s, Bottega Veneta beats the trend of logomania with its handcrafted leather goods made from the finest napa leather.

And consistent with the brand's slogan "When your own initials are enough", you won't be able to see any logo on the leather goods. But the beautifully woven leather, which ages very well with use, should be enough to announce that you're carrying a Bottega.

Line D by S.T. Dupont

S.T. Dupont is so well known for its lighters that it's easy for us to forget that Simon Tissot-Dupont founded the company in 1847 making leather briefcases for diplomats and businessmen.

The classic Line D collection of fine leather goods was launched in 1985 and featured the Dupont "D" logo in gold on black calfskin. In recent years, they also offer Line D fitted with the trendier palladium hardware. But whether it's in gold or palladium, Line D still looks as timeless as ever.

Burberry Check by Burberry

When we think of Burberry, we invariably think of the red, camel, black and white check that has become synonymous with the brand. It's hard to imagine that the Burberry Check actually has a humble beginning. It was introduced in 1920 as a lining to the iconic Burberry trench coat.

Burberry is enjoying a revival in recent years - all thanks to its creative director Christopher Bailey's modern interpretation of the classic check, CEO Rose Marie Bravo's dynamism, and Kate Moss' star power. You just can't go wrong with such rich Brit heritage.

Logan Wong is the founder of Mensfolio, a company that specializes in men's wallets and small leather goods. He is also the editor of the Mensfolio Blog.

Cant Have You A JB Story Ep25

2010-02-23T06:50:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruE2_Ao8xgw&hl=en

Bay Area Tattoos (Part 3) - Ed Hardy

2010-02-22T05:50:00.001-08:00

Bay Area Tattoos (Part 3) - Ed Hardy about the history of tattoos in the Bay Area.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEta7vsd4tM&hl=en

VIALAR HISTORY

2010-02-21T04:40:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4JB9fIXAjQ&hl=en

Richard's Isolation Intensifies As He Suffers Betrayal and Treachery in the Communist Party

2010-02-20T03:00:00.001-08:00

Richard's grandmother joins the family in Chicago and together they move to an apartment at 4804 Z St Lawrence Avenue, near the railroad tracks. His mother's paralysis then returns once more after an attack of encephalitis. When Richard is laid off by the hospital in the summer of 1934 he works again as a street sweeper and ditch digger after which he is hired to supervise a youth club organized to counter juvenile delinquency among blacks on the Southside.

He attends the first American Writers' Congress held in New York in April where he spoke on "The Isolation of the Negro Writer" and meets Chicago novelist James T. Farrell and becomes one of the fifty members of the national council of the newly formed League of American Writers.

He attends two other writers' congresses: the Middle West Writers' Congress in August and the National Congress of the John Reed Clubs in September. He was already reading Henry James, more especially the prefaces to the New York edition, Gertrude Stein, William Faulkner, T..S. Eliot, Sherwood Anderson, Dos Passos, Eugene O'Neil, Stephen Crane, Dreiser, Walt Whitman, Edgar Allan Poe, D.H Lawrence, Joseph Conrad, John Galsworthy, Thomas Hardy, ,Charles Dickens, George Moore, Carlyle, Jonathan Swift, Shakespeare, Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Turgenev, Chekhov, Proust, Alexander Dumas, and Balzac.

In November he lectures on the career of Langston Hughes to the Indianapolis John Reed Club.

Wright publishes a poem "Between the World and Me" about lynching in the Partisan Review. He falls seriously ill with pneumonia in the summer. His article "Avant-Garde Writing" won second prize in a contest sponsored by two literary magazines but is never published.

His grandmother dies and the family with Wright still virtually its sole support moves to 3743 Indiana Avenue. He is then hired by the Federal Writers Project as part of the Works Progress Administration to help research the history of ILLINOIS and of the Negro in Chicago for the Illinois volume in the American Guide Series. He also discusses the influence of Hemingway with fellow writers in the federal project.

In 1936, Wright publishes "Transcontinental" a six-page radical poem influenced by Walt Whitman and Louis Aragon in International Literature. He also becomes principal organizer of the communist -party-sponsored National Negro Congress held in Chicago.

Thereafter, the Party leaders decide to disband all clubs and assign writers to composing party pamphlets and other propaganda. Richard begins to detach himself from the party.

Buddy Nealson, a member of the Communist International, is sent to Chicago to take over the black Communist movement. Nealson launches a campaign to rid the party as well as th club of all "Negro Trotskyite elements," or traitors to the party.

In 1935, Richard attends a party conference in New York where white communists rescinded an offer to find housing for him. Richard realizes it is because he is black and is shocked that. even within the Communist Party, racism exists. At that point, even Richard's notion that the Communist party has achieved his goal of racial unity is broken. To make matters worse, Wright was quickly denounced as a bourgeois intellectual by black communists who were perturbed that Wright did not speak as they did, even though he had been forced, by circumstance, to end his public education after the completion of grammar school.

Dejected, Richard is defeated in the vote to maintain clubs and the John Reed Clubs are officially dissolved.

Free of party relations, Richard turns to his writing. He becomes aware that Buddy Nealson has accused him of being a party degenerate and a traitor. One day, Ed Green stops by to tell Richard that Buddy Nealson wishes to speak to him. When Richard goes to meet him, Nealson tries to recruit Richard back into the party to win the fight against Fascists. He orders Richard to organize a committee against the high cost of living. Though he wants to, Richard cannot bring himself to quit. He accepts the task.

One day, he is called to another meeting with Nealson and one of his friends, named Smith who wishes to send Richard on a task in Switzerland, which Richard rejects. At the next unit meeting, Richard officially resigns from the party. The party shuns Richard and he is accused of being involved in a Trotskyite group. He is transferred from his work at the South Side Boys' Club to work in the Federal Negro Theatre as a publicity agent. Working with a talented Jewish director named Charles DeSheim, Richard sees that the theater's talents are going to waste and sets him on producing a series of one-act plays about Negro life. But the actors picket, forcing DeSheim and Richard to accept their papers and leave the theater.

Transferred to white experimentalist theater as a publicity agent, Richard vows to keep his mouth shut, steer clear of black theater, and avoid all party members.

One evening, a group of black communists invite Richard to attend a Sunday meeting, where Ross will be tried for being a traitor. Richard attends out of curiosity. After being charged with the crimes, Ross breaks down and accepts that he is guilty while asking the party for forgiveness. Richard finds his submission amazing and feels that the entire party has become blind by corruption. He leaves the trial in disgust. Afterwards, only one party member, Harold, has the courage to speak to Richard.

Wright juxtaposes himself with Ross, the party member accused of anti-leadership behavior and inciting to riot. Both Ross and Wright are accused of being traitors to the party. Ross is placed on trial and is somehow "broken" in spirit. But Richard is able to maintain his strong will, despite his inability to stand his ground within the party whilst Ross breaks down. Richard suffers growing isolation from the party and the black community. Whereas Ross is dependent on his peers for social and emotional support, Richard is able to survive on his own and in loneliness ¬ for that is the way he has done for almost his entire life.

Through the club, Wright edited Left Front, a magazine that the Communist Party ultimately shut down in 1937, despite Wright's repeated protests. Throughout this period, Wright also contributed to the New Masses magazine.

Ultimately, Wright's insistence that young communist writers be given space to cultivate their talents and his working relationship with a Black nationalist communist led to a public falling out with the party and the leading African American communist, Buddy Nealson. Wright was threatened at knife point by fellow-traveling coworkers, denounced as a Trotskyite in the street by strikers and physically assaulted by former comrades when he tried to join them during the 1936 May Day march.

By 1935 he found work with the Federal Negro Theater in Chicago under the Federal Writers' Project. He wrote some short stories and a novel but they were not published until after his death.

In 1937 Wright moved to New York City, having fallen out with the Chicago chapter of the Communist Party where he helped start New Challenge magazine and was the Harlem editor of the Daily Worker as well as coeditor of Left Front. Wright forged new ties with the party after establishing himself in New York. He worked there on a Writers' Project guidebook to the city New York Panorama (1938) and wrote the book's essay on the Harlem neighborhood. He also helped edit a short-lived literary magazine, New Challenge.

Wright's literary career was launched when his short story collection, Uncle Tom's Children (1938), won first prize for the Story magazine contest open to Federal Writer's Project authors for best book-length manuscript. Harper's published this collection with "Fire and Cloud," "Long Black Song," "Down by the Riverside," and "Big Boy Leaves Home"; in 1940 the story "Bright and Morning Star" was added, and the book was reissued. Wright gained national attention for Uncle Tom's Children which fictionalized the incidents of lynching in the Deep South. It earned him a Guggenheim Fellowship, which allowed him to complete his first novel, Native Son (1940).

Richard was transferred from the Federal Experimental Theater to the Federal Writers' Project, writing guidebooks. Many of his co-workers are Communist members, but they are not allowed to speak to him because he has been deemed a traitor. One day the project administrator calls Richard into the office and informs him that several of his co-workers are trying to drive him away from his job. Richard learns that his dismissal from the theater project was also related to his relations with the party. His boss refuses to dismiss him on political grounds. Meanwhile, Richard's co-workers call him profane names.

Richard decides to end everything by making an appointment with the head of the local Communist Party. But instead, he is only able to make an appointment with the secretary's secretary, a girl named Alma Zetkin who says almost nothing to him and he leaves without accomplishing anything.

On May Day of 1936, the union votes that everybody should march in the procession. Following printed instructions of where to meet his correct group for the parade, Richard learns that he is 15 minutes late and is instructed to fall in anywhere. Richard is invited by a black communist ¬ an old party friend ¬ to march with the South Side Communist Section. When he is seen by Cy Perry ¬ a white Communist ¬ he is instructed to fall out of their ranks and leave the parade. Asking his black friend to speak up, Richard receives no support and is physically thrown out of the parade. From that day forth, Richard decides to fight back using words, fight back through his writing.

Richard finally realizes the limitations of the Communist Party and their ignorance toward his own motivations. This pushes him over the edge. Richard feels that Communism has distorted the racial issue facing the black community, and when his friend fails to speak back to Cy Perry, he sees it as akin to the racism he encountered in the South. The May Day parade is a final turning point in Richard's isolation where he realizes that he may always be alone in his ideas and beliefs.

Arthur Smith was born and was schooled in Freetown, Sierra Leone. He has taught English since 1977 at Prince of Wales School and, Milton Margai College of Education. He is now a Senior Lecturer at Fourah Bay College where he has been lecturing English language and Literature for the past eight years.

Mr Smith's writings have been appearing in local newspapers as well as in various international media like West Africa Magazine, Index on Censorship, Focus on Library and Information Work. He was one of 17 international visitors who participated in a seminar on contemporary American Literature sponsored by the U.S.State Department in 2006. His growing thoughts and reflections on this trip which took him to various US sights and sounds could be read at lisnews.org.

His other publications include: Folktales from Freetown, Langston Hughes: Life and Works Celebrating Black Dignity, and 'The Struggle of the Book' He holds a PhD and a professorship in English from the National Open University, Republic of Benin.

Azalea Hybrid Bushes And Native American Fiery (flame) Azaleas

2010-02-19T01:00:00.001-08:00

Buying the best azalea shrub offers a gardener many choices for various landscapes. The Southern indica azalea hybrids are the most popular flowering shrubs for warm climates that includes the Formosa azaleas of white, pink, red, purple, magenta, violet, and lavender. Other outstanding Formosa azaleas are Duc DeRohan, Dutchess of Cypress, G.G. Gerbing, George L. Tabor, Madonna White, and South.

Kurume azaleas are evergreen azaleas with considerable cold hardiness and were introduced into the United States around 1915 from Japan. Japan has a climate much like mid-Atlantic and Southern States, and Kurume azalea plants thrive in these similar climates. Kurume azalea shrubs grow small waxy leaves and are considered to be dwarf azalea plants, growing 4 feet tall, but rarely some cultivars reach 6 feet in height. The flowers of Kurume azaleas bloom in colors of pink, purple, white, red, orange, and lavender, and some produce double flowers (double rows of petals). Coral bells is important as a pink azalea to plant underneath windows, and the intense flowering habit is also notable in the pink ruffles azalea and the red ruffles highlights any garden landscape planting. Snow is a pure white Kurume flowering azalea cultivar.

Satsuki azalea plants were developed in Japan as a bonsai specimen (dwarf), however, some cultivars can grow 6 feet tall. The flowers can exceed 5 inches, the size of a coffeecup saucer, and the late blooming characteristic of Satsuka azaleas offers the landscape gardener a flower that blooms after May 15 and continues flowering through June.

Compact azaleas are generally preferred for small gardens like the Satsuki hybrid cultivars that includes the Gumpo pink, Gumpo white, Gumpo red, Higasa rose-pink, and Wakebishu dark pink azalea. Satsuki azalea shrubs will flower abundantly.

The USDA began a hybridization program of azalea shrubs at Glenn Dale, Maryland to introduce landscape, cold hardy plants of flowering azalea cultivars that would extend the season for azalea bloom and offer Northern landscape gardeners new colorful cultivars of flowering azaleas. Many of these Glenn Dale azalea shrubs grow flowers similar to the Formosa hybrids. Glenn Dale azaleas bloom with the diversity of Japanese hybrids. Glenn Dale flowering azalea cultivars introduced by the USDA hybridizers have produced over 400 kinds of azalea shrubs, many available to buy through an internet nursery site. Two sensational Glenn Dale azalea hybrids are the salmon-pink Fashion azalea. The Fashion azalea can grow 6 feet tall and is covered with medium sized flowers. A pure white azalea, the H.H. Hume, is an excellent Glenn Dale azalea shrub that blooms in late April. Many Glenn Dale azalea landscape shrubs flower in May and June.

Not all azalea shrubs are evergreen, but American native azalea shrubs drop the leaves during winter and are called deciduous azaleas. In the South, these native azaleas are called fragrant bush honeysuckle or the Florida azalea (Rhododendrun austrinum) with colors of yellow, red, pink, white, yellow-orange, purple, and bicolor light up the forests or garden landscape when domesticated. The wild bush honeysuckle (Rhododendrun austrinum) is an early blooming native azalea shrub, with fragrant flowers appearing before the leaves.

Native flame azaleas can grow 10 feet tall and 15 feet wide and can be grown into a flowering tree as a specimen in the landscape garden. The size of most other flowering landscape azalea bushes is quite variable, some dwarf azaleas grow one foot tall and others up to 15 feet with age. Some azaleas in Japan are reported to be several hundred years old and grow into small trees with trunks up to one foot in diameter.

Most gardeners prefer to buy azalea shrubs at a nursery in the spring while the bush blooms. Some azalea experts suggest planting azalea shrubs in the winter or fall by buying containerized nursery bushes, so that the root system can support beautiful flowering in the spring. Most azalea shrubs are slow growing in the landscape, and many gardeners prefer to buy large established azalea clumps that will flower on a grandiose scale in the spring.

Azalea bushes thrive under the partial, filtered shade of pine trees, along with companion dogwood trees and camellia shrubs. Azalea plants are better grown in partial shade, and when planted next to buildings, the north side offers protection from cold damage. The flowers of the azalea plant last longer in filtered pine tree shade because of the cooling effect. Pine tree straw, pine cones, and pine tree bark make excellent mulch under azalea bushes by conserving soil moisture and preventing weeds. When planting azalea bushes, the shrub should be put into a landscaped hole that contains half soil and half organic matter, such as pine tree bark or peat moss. Azalea plants are very shallow rooted and must be grown in an organic soil mixture.

The azalea plant is acid loving, and a pH of 4.5 to 5.5 is ideal for vigorous growing. Watering may be necessary if rain does not happen for a two week period and fertilizing is usually avoided. Fertilizer can burn the tender fibrous root system. If yellowing occurs in the leaves or leaf veins, Iron or Magnesium (Epsom salts) will usually correct the condition. Leaves and humus are the best organic fertilizers for azaleas and generally fertilizer is not recommended, because the plant may be damaged or killed by gardeners who wish to be "too kind" to their plants. Azaleas flourish in an acid soil (low pH), and lime should never be used, since it can be fatal to your azalea plants.

If leaves of azalea shrubs show a dull, dark green leaf color with reddening beneath, this means that there are deficiencies of phosphorus in the soil that can easily be corrected by applying phosphorous in water-soluble fertilizer, such as miracle grow. Bright green, shiny azalea leaves generally means that the azalea plant is in a healthy state of growth.

If azalea bushes are pruned after flowering, during the summer, there may be only few azalea flowers formed the following season, therefore the sooner you prune after flowering, the better your chances are of ensuring beautiful flowering next year.

Azalea shrubs are easily propagated and increased by taking a cutting about 8 inches long and placing the cut end about 2 inches deep in sand. Roots on azalea plants can form within a week during June and July, and the plant may grow another foot tall before it is ready to be planted permanently in your yard.

There are thousands of different cultivars of azaleas. An excellent reference book, Azaleas, by Fred Galle, describes 6000 flowering varieties, and is published by Timber Press. Very few of these azalea cultivars are available commercially, because most nursery garden centers do not wish to stock shrub perennials, unless they are in bloom, and the blooming period of azalea is restricted to a month or less. Azalea plants don't sell well unless they are in full flower – except from year round shipping by internet companies that can ship them at any season.

Learn more about various plants, or purchase ones mentioned in this article by visiting the author's website: TyTy Nursery

'Lost Cause' ep. 6

2010-02-17T23:40:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hw3ojHu3pI0&hl=en

Love in the Backseat

2010-02-16T23:30:00.001-08:00

Sketches From the Book - "Romances of a Midwinter Soldier"

Augsburg. Germany

1) Love in the Backseat
(Chris Steward's Sandwiches) (9-1970)
At the 1/36th Artillery

Boot camp was boot camp, and I was for the most part, a midwinter soldier, in that I was, or it was midwinter when I ended up in book camp and that is in itself another story, under the heading of the Novelette, "A Midwinter Soldier."

While in boot camp, we marched in the rain, and in the light snows of North Carolina, Fort Bragg, it was the winter of 1969 when it was all completed, and I'd head on to Alabama for my advance training. I had met a girl at the EM-Club, on the base at Fort Bragg, a German girl, but everyone was after her, and I was drinking in a location new recruits were not suppose to drink, so I said my hellos as much as I could when I drank at the club, got my eyes full of her, and kept my distance, I preferred to drink, than to have a short relationship with her, and had I fooled around with her, I'm sure the other crowed-those soldiers who were stationed at Fort Bragg on a permanent bases, the ones that stood sullenly around her hoping to amuse her enough to take her to bed, would inform the captain of my company that I was not allowed there, and thus, cause me trouble, and at the same time reduce the completion.

At the end of book camp, we had a beer bash, at Fort Bragg, and a lot of memories to bring home, the trials and tribulations of the Mess Hall, and peeling those potatoes on KP, and running around that three-mile field, like horses, with rubber hoofs, and the fighting Irish in me with my fellow soldiers, and my confrontation with the Captain of our company over my attitude and behavior, my drinking and madness, my low opinion of the drill sergeants. And on and on (another story in itself): but I made it anyhow, which I was doubtful a few times if I would. Not because I felt the Army was too rough, or too disciplined, or two physical, but it was simply just too disrespectful, and I had a hard time adjusting to that and nothing else, and I rebelled, and somewhere along the line, came to an understanding, I'd have to be jammed solid in the Army, and march halfway with it, or run to Canada, like a lost camel, and sleep on someone else couch I suppose, hiding, and looking in mirrors, so I changed my reasoning and perhaps the Captain gave me a better understanding on the matter, and yes I became in time a good soldier, or if not good a well balanced, holding no grudges soldier.

In Advance Training, at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, by Huntsville, I had met two girls there also, but again, the training took too many hours away from my daily thirst for girls, you couldn't really have both: good training and an Alabama relationship. And I didn't want to look for hookers.
But the two girls, me and my friend, an Indian, who would reunite with me in Vietnam, walked through the park with the girls, had some chants, and that was that; and onto my next duty station I went, in six weeks.

Augsburg, Germany, the 1/36 Artillery; this would be my home base for ten-months. And I was fascinated with it, with Germany per se, its culture, traditions, foods, likes and dislikes, its history, its maps, and of course its beer, which was stronger than the American caned beer.

Chris Steward, a German-Jew, started coming over to see me on guard duty often, I had met her in a dance hall, and she had called me over to her side one evening, about two months after I arrived in Augsburg, she was quite wealthy, and a manager of a Pizzeria. Had a new sports car, and took a liking to me. She was conceivably a few inches shorter than I, but not more than that, thin, and simply cups for breasts, but a pretty German girl-all in all, and intelligent in many ways. And she was like that Sharon girl, in that she loved sex, and when we had it, she came through, or we came through, like two logs grinding against one another. She was as hardy with her business lifestyle as well.

I don't want to cut down any old lovers, but the Shadow, a woman I dated prior to Chris, was in comparison, quite clumsy, crude and elemental, in that area.

With Chris, I always assumed this is what was happening: business, sex and buried in the sand with her daughter, Carmen. She was strict with her ten year old, and took no liking for me to give advice in her rearing methods, which could be harsh at times.

I had told her once during a bowling session, with her and her daughter, told her not to slap her in the face, when I was around,

"Don't talk that way to me," she inquisitively and angrily replied, "Carmen did wrong (and she did)..." she had told her daughter to go wash it off, the ice-cream, she had spilt on her hands, I had bought her some without Chris' permission, and Carmen was not suppose to accept the gift, which I didn't know. The child was not happy, and got a little moody with her, and Chris's response was (just before the slap) "Don't get huffy with me, Carmon, just because Dennis is here, it doesn't mean the rules are different (then 'slap...!')"

But that was just one occasion; she was all right normally, because a few minutes later she asked,

"Was anything the matter?" looking at me, and I said-looking at her and over to her daughter, and back to her, "No," I said, trying not to remember the argument, and slap, and her temper, which was for the most part, not, more often than not, out of control.

Chris came over this one evening, I was at the gate, a Security Guard at Reese Military Base: she pulled up across the street, parked her car, it was a no parking zone; but I was used to her doing things like that, so it was not out of the ordinary.

She came over to see me in my little corner hut, by the gate, where I waved in cars, checked out identifications, and checked out motor vehicles for violations, such as contraband and so forth. She was silent sort of, as if she was thinking. I was sitting inside the little hut, my joystick, on my lap, you know those sticks you are given as police officers to wound your assailants with, in case of need.

Anyhow, there she was, looking at me through the open window space,
"Dear, I don't think I have much time, but here is a sandwich, I want to talk to you, its ham and eggs, I know you like them."

"Can we talk later," I almost begged her, knowing she could be insist especially at times when told her 'no'.

"No." she had said, handing over the sandwich, "We can go in my car and sit and talk."

I thought about her 'no,' and if anything gets to me, is disrespect, and I said harshly, "Are you going to argue with me or leave, I got work to do!"

She started to cry, then I figured it must be serious, I had never seen her cry before (likened to my mother who I only saw once cry, and that was when I defied the judge, and told him to put me in jail for underage drinking, I wanted to be like my brother, and he did just that, but instead of jail, he put me into pre-trial, detention home for two weeks, and at the end of one, he visited me, and I told him, in so many words, I had enough of jail, and crime, and he smiled, and I was out in another week.) So, I felt, this must be serious, and accordingly I said, "Can't you explain it here, right here while I eat?"

"Sorry, but I can't" she said wiping her tears on her beautiful mink coat.

"It's all right," I said, "I'll wake up Jim; he'll take over for me for a while."

And I did just that, and we went to her car, in the wee hours of the morning, and she talked, and I listened. She had lost $50,000-dollars, when the Mark went up, and the dollar went down (when I arrived in Germany, the Mark was 3.5 to a dollar, and now it had hit a low, the dollar that is.)

It was a frightfully chilly morning, and after Chris told me her troubles, she got into the backseat, and said,

"Ok, I want to make love."

I thought about it, it would be jamming two bodies into a Mustang, and that was hard to do. Jim motioned to me, there was a police car parked a block away, parked, waiting for American soldiers I suppose to be drunk racing down the street, coming back from a late night at one of the clubs.
In any case, I jammed an absolute tired body into her backseat, and we lay there in perfect harmony, until the action started, and it seemed like I was hitting barricades along side my hips, head, everyplace, worried half the time, those police officers would come and check us out, but Chris could care less.

She tried to get over me, and I her, and somehow we worked it out, and what were obstacles at one time, were now gone-or at least forgotten for the meantime, and at the end of the getting together, the gradually getting used to reality again fluttering on the peak of trying, with two aching bodies, we both fell back, and laughed, and I went back to work, and she, I thing, went back home.

See Dennis' web site: http://dennissiluk.tripod.com

Charleville - The Real Outback

2010-02-15T21:10:00.001-08:00

The beauty of Queensland is its diversity, and one fantastic way to experience this is to head west towards the red heart of Australia to the largest town in the southern central outback. The journey from Brisbane to Charleville is well travelled, rich in history and abundant in natural attractions. Located 750km west from Brisbane, via the garden city of Toowoomba, this is the perfect destination for an outback campervan holiday.

Having lived in Roma for a number of years, my outback experience was more than I expected. The magnificent sunsets, night skies sprayed with millions of stars and vast open spaces that pan for miles on end are just some of the highlights. Weather conditions vary, so come prepared with lots of woollens as temperatures drop at night especially in the winter months, and bring sunscreen and hats as temperatures soar in hot summer days.However, most days especially in Spring and Autumn bring pleasant warm days.

The drive from Brisbane takes about six hours to Roma, and then another three hours to Charleville. This can be undertaken in one day, but be careful at dusk as kangaroos jump out of nowhere. You might want to drive straight through or visit some of the delightful towns on the way such as Toowoomba, Dalby, Chinchilla and Roma. It is better to take your time and enjoy the richness each town has to offer. Maybe stop for a night and take in the colours of dusk and dawn, and enjoy a campfire under the stars.

The people are the greatest commodity of the outback, and Charleville is home to many of them. What impressed me the most was the friendliness and ease you feel when getting to know the locals who always seem to have enough time for a chat, especially at smoko when the town grinds to a sudden halt for their coffee break. They are a hardy lot, having battled many droughts and floods, but for the four thousand or so locals, community is everything. Water is the other precious resource out here, also needed to keep the thousands of sheep and cattle alive in the stations surrounding Charleville.

When you arrive you will need to set up your home away from home so the main choices are the Bailey Bar Caravan Park, in the heart of Charleville, also close to the new Cosmos Centre, and Cobb and Co Caravan Park on Ridgeway Street, set in bushland and within walking distance of town. Then stroll down to the centre of town and get to know your neighbours.

There is so much to do here, with the famous Warrego River always a great place to explore. Keen fishermen and amateurs alike will love the yellowbelly, perch and murray cod which go well with a crackling camp fire. 10 Mile is a common meeting place for locals, located a few minutes north of town. There is a cosy camping ground here, the perfect location for a picnic and relaxing snooze. The further you go from here, the better the fishing and star gazing! The Warrago Highway (also known as Augathella Road) offers one of the best kept secrets in the west, with plentiful fishing spots along the river and beautiful scenery.

Historical House is worth a visit, with plenty of historical memorabilia and artefacts giving you a better look at Charleville in the last century. Another is the 'Steiger Gun', located on the south side of town. It is one of the ten guns used in an attempt to break a century old drought, and has a quirky story attached to it. The invention never worked, but the gun still remains as a Charleville icon.

Charleville is also home to the Queensland Royal Flying Doctor Service as well as the School of Distance Education. There are countless remote properties being helped in many ways by these services, such a different way of life to us suburban dwellers.

One of the biggest drawcards to date is the Cosmos Centre, offering an interactive tour of the sky at night as well as presentations and interactive displays by day.There are plenty of indescribable views of the heavens here for all the family. Charleville is the perfect location for this incredible observatory, as the lack of pollution makes it ideal to view the starry night sky with clear vision. Allow just over an hour to enjoy the heavens through the Meade telescope, which will give you an even better appreciation of the outback sky.

Charleville needs to be experienced to be truly understood. You just need to get out there into the Queensland outback and see it for yourself. Why wait any longer to begin you next Campervan holiday?

Jenny Brewer is a travel agent whose passion is writing. After spending her leisure time writing childrens stories, she now enjoys writing about travel destinations. For more of her articles visit Campervans Australia.

THE VALLEY Sims 3 Casting Call! OPEN

2010-02-14T20:00:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPzYnQmYh1M&hl=en

Never Run Out of Altitude, Airspeed, and Ideas at the Same Time: Lessons From the Vietnam POWs

2010-02-13T11:30:00.001-08:00

Bosses can't control many things at work. In fact, they probably can't control most things, but they can control their own reactions to unfortunate events, and they can help their direct reports feel authority over their reactions to unpleasant and unexpected changes. When hard times rear their ugly heads, the boss has to be a kind of hero, the rescuer who looks after others and helps them keep from losing their perspective and their coping resources. Becoming aware of the value of humor can increase our understanding of the powerful role mirth and laughter can play in helping us bounce back from hardships, and in turn, help others cope with adversity. In other words, humor can give us a bit of control in situations when we would otherwise feel as though we had no power over our destiny.

The Vietnam POWs:

Why do some people conquer adversity, and others are immobilized by it? The Vietnam POWs offer some answers. In 1973, 566 Vietnam POWs were repatriated to the United States. Evidence from prior captivity situations indicated a high incidence of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Fifty to eighty-two percent of the WWII POWs who were studied, particularly those who were imprisoned in the Pacific Theatre, have had a diagnosis of PTSD. Forty-seven to ninety percent of the Korean POWs who were studied have received a diagnosis of PTSD. Because of these staggering numbers, in 1976, the Navy started to study 138 repatriated Vietnam POW. In 1996, they reached surprising conclusions. In their 20-year follow-up, they found that only about 4% of the Vietnam prisoners of war had received a diagnosis of PTSD.

This is astonishing when comparing the Vietnam group to the other captivity situations, but it is also shocking in light of the implications of these numbers.

To give a frame of reference for understanding this, at any given time in a metropolitan area, about 1-4% of the population is walking around with PTSD because of violent crime, natural disasters, or other kinds of trauma. In other words, this group of people, who was imprisoned at least 5 years and as long as for seven or eight years, who was tortured, isolated, and beaten, had no higher incidence of PTSD than the average people in the average city in America. How can that be?

The study participants indicated that there were four main forces in the POWs' lives that helped them remain resilient: a belief in God, patriotism, a dedication to something bigger than they were, and a sense of humor. These men personified the importance of never losing altitude, airspeed, and ideas at the same time, and humor played a huge role in their ability to keep all three.

Even though their captivity indicated that they had all run out of altitude, airspeed, and ideas at the same time in a realistic sense, in a metaphorical or psychological sense, they were able to sustain all three. Great bosses are people who don't run out of altitude, airspeed, and ideas at the same time; they are people who can stay resilient in difficult times and help their direct reports do the same.

Altitude:

People want power and authority over their futures. When we perceive that our actions will make an outcome likely, we feel optimistic and secure. When we don't, we feel insecure. We feel like victims. Sometimes people stay in a victim's frame of mind after a loss or disappointment. They doubt their capacity to make their lives happen according to their own aspirations, so they wait to be rescued or blessed by good fortune. They start to feel undermined and overwhelmed; and they can become totally immobilized.

But the VPOWs weren't victims. They were certainly victimized by their captors, but they never saw themselves as victims, no matter what was done to them. They weren't victims because they took control of the few things they could control. They were told when and what and if they could eat; they were told if and when they could shower, sleep, and use the toilet. They had no say about parts of their lives that people normally take for granted. But they did have control over one thing, and that was their humor perspective, a way of looking at things that allowed them to keep their "altitude."

In a physical sense, altitude is the elevation of an object above a certain level, usually the earth. Therefore, "altitude" as it applies to leadership, is a global perspective, a realization that there is a bigger picture and no one person is the center of the universe. When bosses indicate that they have altitude, they usually exhibit these behaviors:

· Vision, an ability to see the future and to anticipate consequences.

· Critical thinking--the capability to go into uncharted territory. Managers have the ability to do the right thing well; leaders have the ability to figure out what the right thing is.

· The ability to prioritize, to do first things first and to separate important from unimportant uses of time.

· The motivation to look beyond the obvious.

· The skills to paint credible pictures of possibilities.

· An eagerness to create competitive strategies.

Admiral Stockdale was one of the senior leaders of the POWs. He had the Code of Conduct to rely on to help him keep his global perspective, but no prisoners had experienced what these men were suffering. So, he issued orders for them to resist but not to risk permanent physical or psychological harm. He thought he'd be court marshaled. Instead, he will live in military history as a hero who was responsible for saving the lives of many and ensuring the resilience of hundreds of others.

"Leadership" does not always come from the leader, however. One of the stories that lives in the POW histories and clearly illustrates the importance of keeping altitude involved a lieutenant who had been shot down in an F-4 Phantom. He was tortured to force him to give the maximum airspeed of the F-4. He told them the top speed of the F-4 was 500 knots, a number that is much lower than the actual maximum speed. The captors said they knew he was lying because a major had just told them that the speed was closer to Mach 2. Thinking quickly, and trying to avoid torture for himself and the major, he said, "Well, that guys is a major. I'm only a lieutenant. They don't let lieutenants fly as fast as they let majors fly."

By keeping his wits about him, this young lieutenant was able to anticipate the consequences of his answer and to venture into uncharted territory, something that training had not prepared him for. He wasn't trying to be funny, but stories of his quick wit soon spread throughout the POW community and validated their awareness that through humor, they could claim some control over what was happening. Aviators understand altitude in a real and a metaphorical sense, and bosses can learn to too.
During times of adversity, there is much we can't control, but our global perspective, our altitude, is one thing we can take charge of.

Airspeed:

Airspeed is velocity, the force that make us go forward. Relationships are one of the main sources of fuel that helps successful bosses accelerate their productivity and that of others. The boss who avoids running out of airspeed tends to have these traits:

· A knack for building relationships

· A strong motivation to follow through

· A willingness and availability to listen

· A genuine interest in people

· The capacity to convey respect for people and their ideas

· The confidence to tell people what they need to know, not just what they want to hear.

Communication is the primary tool that helps us form relationships and develop closeness in our personal and professional lives. For the VPOWs, however, communication was difficult and sometimes nearly impossible. Yet, it became a priority.

In 1965, a man named Bob Shumaker realized that the POWs were going to need a communication system. Bob Shumaker had gone 133 days without face-to-face contact with another American. For over four months, Bob Shumaker was in solitary confinement, but he knew there was another American in the complex, because he had seen him: Hayden Lockhart. All of the POWs emptied their waste buckets in the same latrine area. Through the cracks in his walls, Bob Shumaker had seen another American there, and he knew he needed to make contact with this other American. But he wasn't sure how he wanted to do this. Finally, he decided that he would write a note on toilet paper.

Bob Shumaker decided to write a three word note on a scrap of toilet paper and hide it behind a piece of cement in the latrine. He had to be very careful about what he wrote on this piece of toilet paper-it couldn't be very much and it had to be the exact words that he needed to say. On this scrap of toilet paper Bob Shumaker wrote three words, three words that in essence said, "scratch your area where your mother specifically told you not to scratch in public."

His thinking was two-fold. First of all, he wanted to write something that an American would know only another American would write so that the person receiving the three word note would not suspect duplicity. Second, he wanted to devise a signal that would not arouse suspicion in the captors.

He wrote the note on the scrap of toilet paper, and day after day, he stood peeking through the cracks in his room, and day after day, Hayden Lockhart came out of the latrine and made no signal. Finally, one day, Hayden Lockhart came out and made a huge display of scratching the region in question and facing every part of the compound. The communication system was born. However, even though they had created a way of communication, they realized its limitations and knew they would have to have other ways of communicating.

Shortly after this, Bob Shumaker was given some roommates. One of them, Smitty Harris, remembered the "tap code" that he had learned from a survival school that he had attended. Because they could tap almost all of the time, the Tap Code became the most sophisticated communication system that they had. Originally, this was devised to be a communication system for getting policy throughout the POW camp, but it quickly became a way for staying connected to one another, keeping morale up, and for sharing jokes. The Tap Code is a 25-letter alphabet that uses the "C" and "K" interchangeably. It was an arduous task to tap a message one letter at a time, but they quickly became proficient at the code and spent hours each day committed to staying in touch with each other.

The captors soon realized there was a communication system, so they tortured Stockdale to give up the system and the players in the system. They tortured him one day almost to his breaking point with the promise that if he did not tell them what they wanted to know the next day, they would do it to him again. Knowing that he was close to capitulating, Stockdale went back to his cell that night, broke a window, took a shard of glass, and cut his wrists. He had been willing to die to protect the communication system. The next morning, the captors found him in a pool of his own blood, unconscious, and they never tortured him again. Stockdale knew that he was protecting something vital when he attempted to end his life for the sake of a communication system that the POWs would need to stay resilient and hardy.

Relationships, communication, closeness, and humor, all of these are fuel for us, airspeed that keeps us going through adversity and helps us help others too. The Vietnam POWs literally risked their lives to stay connected to each other, but how often do we walk past the desk of a co-worker, too busy to even risk losing a minute of our day to stay connected? A global perspective helps us realize that we aren't the center of the universe and that our problems pale in comparison to those of some others, and communicating with those that we care about helps us keep this perspective. Altitude and airspeed are two critical elements for success, but there's one more: Ideas

Ideas:

Creative problem solving is probably one of the most essential talents a leader can possess. Bosses who can look at diverse information and see relationships, who can reason abstractly and make logical connections, and who can think of the future as open and malleable bring an invaluable asset to their organizations: ideas. When leaders have ideas, they can solve the unfamiliar problems they encounter and make decisions that are in the best interest of their direct reports and the organization because of these skills:

· An openness to brainstorming and creativity

· The motivation and enthusiasm to challenge existing processes

· A knack for inviting input from a variety of perspectives

· A willingness to experiment with novel approaches and champion innovation

The POWs found themselves in an drastically altered world, one that they had never encountered before and, in spite of some training, one for which they were ill prepared. But like great leaders throughout history, they had the ability to engage in creative problem solving. They had ideas.
One of the classic stories of the POWs that illustrates this willingness to experiment with novel approaches involved Jerry Venanzi and his motorcycle, a story that quickly became a legend in the POW community. One day, Jerry Venanzi was outside when he noticed some of the other POWs were staked out and being treated miserably. He did not have any control over how he could help his fellow POWs, except he thought he might be able to make them laugh, so he decided to try that.

Putting his brilliant idea into action, he created an imaginary motorcycle, which he got on and rode around the compound. His fellow POWs started to laugh. Being somewhat of a ham, Jerry Venanzi realized that this idea was indeed funny, so he'd stage a spill, feign an injury, and limp. He'd hobble over and show somebody how he'd gotten a burn or some other kind of injury from the motorcycle. His act was so convincing that some of the POWs started to tap to one another, "Has Venanzi lost it?"

One of the things that the POWs found most humorous, however, was that the commander of the compound finally called Jerry Venanzi in and told him that he had to get rid of the motorcycle. As the commander pointed out, it wasn't fair. All the POWs couldn't have motorcycles so; Jerry Venanzi shouldn't be able to have a motorcycle either. So, he reluctantly got rid of his imaginary motorcycle.

However, since he was disappointed about the loss of the motorcycle and since he was in solitary confinement, Jerry Venanzi decided to create an imaginary companion, a monkey that he called Barney Google. The stories of Barney Google went like wildfire through the community because Barney became the voice of the POWs. Jerry Venanzi would take his imaginary monkey into what was called an interrogation, and, as he was being asked questions, he would turn to the imaginary monkey and say "NO! I'm not going to tell them that! Because, if I tell them that, they'll beat the hell outta me! You're just going to have to shut up." The interrogator would then say, "What did he say?" Who was in charge of this interrogation? Jerry Venanzi would seize this opportunity to say, "He's sick of the food. It's lousy food and he's tired of it. We don't have enough blankets, we're freezing to death," Whatever their complaint was, Barney said it on their behalf.

During one interrogation, the camp commander offered Barney tea, which Jerry Venanzi declined on behalf of Barney, pointing out that Barney didn't like tea. This ruse continued for quite a some time, all the while fueling the POWs' feelings of having some degree of control, if only to their reactions and their openness to finding way to be connected to one another.
Finally, one day, the captors once again called Jerry Venanzi in and said that he would have to get rid of the dirty animal because he was getting some roommates. They were certain the roommates wouldn't like the dirty animal. Of course Venanzi disagreed, but he finally capitulated and let Barney go on to another life outside the walls of the Hanoi Hilton, but Venanzi's idea lived on ideas are certainly critical for leaders, but leadership is not only about position, experience, knowledge, and education. It's also about the willingness to experiment with ideas to help solve problems that no one has encountered before. Certainly Jerry Venanzi was a person who assumed this leadership function. Doug Hegdahl was another, but he was barely old enough to be considered a man.
Doug Hegdahl was a 19-year old seaman who, in violation of policy, went out on a ship during a thunderstorm and was washed overboard. A Viet-Cong fishing boat picked him up and took him to the Hanoi Hilton. However, he wasn't like the other prisoners that were there. He was the only non-aviator, and he was only a teenager. He quickly realized that he could trick the captors into thinking he was dim-witted or stupid because he couldn't have answered any of the questions they asked him, even if he wanted to. He did not know about flying; he did not know about targets; he did not know the answers to any of their questions. Since his captors were confused about this very different kind of prisoner, Hegdahl had an idea.

To create more confusion for the guards, he started sucking on a pen and getting ink all over himself. When they asked him to write a propaganda statement, he would ask them how to spell a word, such as "American." Hegdahl's ruse had immediate and enormous implications. The captors underestimated him and made the tactical error of putting him a cell of one of the POW leaders, Dick Stratton.

Dick Stratton groomed Doug Hegdahl, and Stockdale, the acting senior leader, ordered Hegdahl to take the early release the Vietnamese had offered this seemingly simple-minded child. As the only person who was authorized to accept early release, Hegdahl returned home with 200 names, went to the Paris Peace talks, and told about the mistreatment of the POWs. In the archives of military history, a 19-year old Navy Seaman is one of the most heroic figures. This 19 year old teenager never ran out of ideas, but neither did he run out of altitude or airspeed. Through his involvement in a well-defined system, he was able to remain resilient and healthy and to ensure the safe return of many of his fellow POWs.

Conclusion:

The need for control served as a framework for the VPOWs who created and maintained a system of strong interpersonal relationships and group affiliation that helped them survive over seven years in captivity and thrive during the years since repatriation. Humor was one of the elements of this system. The VPOWs taught each other how to use humor as a weapon for fighting back and as a tool for building cohesion.

To prevent a disjunction of the self and to find meaning in a situation void of meaning, the VPOWs relied on resources many of them did not know they had. Their internal sense of mirth and humor, their reliance on one another, and their group interactions all combined to create a system for survival. Their humor perspective provided the framework for discovering how to cope with their captivity, and their commitment to one another other gives an important perspective about what coping is made of. The role humor can play in bouncing back from adversity, especially when we are linked to others who will help us laugh, seems critical.

Because they were cemented in a strong social structure, they had a buffer against fragmentation of self or of the system. The VPOW accounts indicate these men formed a system that defined and encouraged humor among the group's members. These men relied on humor not in spite of the crisis but because of it. The VPOWs' system was a powerful civilizing force that discouraged any antisocial slip into a kind of jungle mentality. Control is central to individuals' health, their personal benefits, and in the case of the Vietnam POWs, their actual survival.

Dr. Linda Henman speaks from experience. For more than 25 years, she has helped military organizations, small businesses, and Fortune 500 Companies turn things around by getting the right people in the right place doing the right thing.

Linda holds a Bachelor of Science in communication, two Master of Arts degrees in both interpersonal communication and organization development, and a Ph.D. in organizational systems. By combining her experience as an organizational psychologist with her education in business, she offers her clients assessment, coaching, consulting, and training solutions that are pragmatic in their approach and sound in their foundation. Specializing in assessment for selection, promotion, and development, Linda helps organizations improve their succession and retention initiatives and teaches people to become the boss that no one wants to leave.

How to Handle Noisy Neighbors & Their Barking Dogs

2010-02-12T06:50:00.001-08:00

I have a formula for silencing noisy neighbors that works almost every time. I say almost every time because there are usual circumstances that make it very difficult to solve the problem. In most cases, however, it's rather easy.

This method also works well for getting your neighbors to take action to quiet their barking dogs. When it comes to dogs, many cases are easily handled, while others are more difficult. Some are impossible.

There is nothing more infuriating than to constantly have noise created by your neighbor or their dog(s) invade your home. It completely ruins a person's ability to listen to music, watch a movie, read a book, meditate, study for a class, work on a speech, take a nap, and countless other things. If you are reading this because you are experiencing a noise problem right now, you know exactly what I am talking about.

I am not going to bore you with all my stories about noisy neighbors and their barking dogs. Just let me assure you that I've experienced just about every noise problem that you can imagine. If there is any one area that I might be considered a guru it would be this one because of the incredible number of unbelievable noise problems that I've dealt with.

I've tried every method I could find to deal with my noisy neighbors or their barking dogs. I am going to pass along to you the most successful techniques I've discovered or developed on my own. Here they are.

Inform Your Neighbor about the Noise Problem Anonymously

I can't over emphasis the importance of remaining anonymous. There's always a natural tendency to want to "do the right thing" and talk to your neighbor in person. Unless you are close friends or it's a very small issue I would strongly advise against it and here's why.

When a neighbor knows that it's you who is complaining about a noise problem it becomes a personal matter. This is especially true when the problem isn't solved to your satisfaction and you are forced to talk with them again in order to get the noise problem fixed. If that doesn't work you'll need to go even further and contact the authorities. Then things get really personal!

Another benefit to remaining anonymous is that your neighbor will not know if one person is complaining or the entire neighborhood -- if you write your letter carefully. I'll talk more about how to write letters later. They also will not know if it's the little old lady in the house to the right of them or the heavyweight mixed martial arts champion on the other side.

If you do have to escalate things by calling the police or other authorities, whom you can remain anonymous with as well, your noisy neighbor won't have anywhere to direct their retaliation. Their only recourse will be to comply or move.

The biggest advantage to remaining anonymous is the peace of mind that it will give you in knowing that you will not have to deal with angry looks, stares, or confrontations. You also won't destroy the possibility of having a positive relationship with them in the future.

There are rare situations where remaining anonymous is impossible. For example, if you live in a duplex on an isolated piece of property your neighbor will know where any complaints came from. Even so, I would still advise against direct contact unless you have a close relationship.

I have tried it both ways in dealing with noisy neighbors and their barking dogs. Direct face-to-face contact rarely worked and it usually got personal, whereas anonymous communication with a letter or other means has proven to be the most successful.

Methods for Communicating & Solving the Noise Problem

There are five ways to communicate and solve a noise problem: (1) write a letter, (2) contact the property or association management, (3) contact your city's noise abatement or animal control department (if available), (4) contact the police, and/or (5) file a claim with small claims court.

You should start with the least aggressive action and only advance to the next level if necessary. In other words, don't use a double barreled shotgun when you can get the job done with a peashooter. Your goal is to solve the problem in the easiest way possible.

Writing a letter is the best and most effective method. A letter gives you full control, the ability to describe the problem in your own way, and as much time as you need to devise your communication in a tactful manner. A face-to-face confrontation doesn't allow these opportunities. I'll give you some dos and don'ts on writing the letter later.

The alternative to a letter is to contact your property or association management by phone or in writing. I would tell them up front that you wish to remain anonymous. There are two advantages to sending a letter to management: (1) it creates a record and (2) letters tend to get more attention. I'd suggest that you start with a phone call. If you don't get any response, send them a letter.

Many cities have a noise abatement and/or animal control department. The individuals who staff these departments have heard it all, so they can be very helpful. They can provide you with suggestions on how to deal with your noisy neighbors or their barking dogs. They will usually contact your neighbor in writing. Animal control officers will typically send a letter and then follow up with an in person visit to counsel your neighbor on ways to control the barking. The disadvantage here is that the process can take a considerable amount of time because they must follow a strict set of guidelines and they usually have limited resources.

I've been amazed at how easily some barking problems can be fixed. I had a neighbor who put her German Sheppard on her front porch every afternoon. Because this breed is territorial, it barked at every person and car that passed by all afternoon. After I wrote her an anonymous letter about the problem, she stopped putting the dog on her front porch and I never heard it bark again.

If none of your letters or other efforts has worked or the noise is so ridiculously loud that immediate action is necessary, call the police. And call them repeatedly if the noise continues. The police will ask you for your name. Just tell them that you wish to remain anonymous. I've always been pleasantly surprised at how understanding and supportive the officers that I spoke to were. If your neighbor still doesn't stop the noise after repeated visits by the police, they may ask you to declare a citizens arrest. This empowers the officers to take further action, but it really complicates things. Once you do this your neighbor will, of course, become aware that the complaints are coming from you. I'd recommend that you only do this as a last resort.

By just sending a letter advising your neighbor that you intend to file a claim in small claims court may do the trick. Tell them in the letter that you will be filing the claim on X date if the problem isn't fixed. Be sure to select a date out in the future that will give them enough time to take action and think about it. State your intent in a factual manner. Do not use threatening undertones.

I had a noisy neighbor that I tried everything on to get her to keep her music down. When I sent a letter informing her that I was going to file a claim in small claims court, she let me know through a third party that she was going to move. I was delighted, as you can imagine.

If after you've tried every means possible and the noise problem still hasn't improved, you might go ahead and file a claim. It doesn't cost much to file, the court proceedings are informal, and you may win a cash settlement. Collecting it can be tricky, however. Nevertheless, wining the case may persuade your neighbor to take action to fix the noise problem or move!

Sometimes it takes considerable effort to silence noisy neighbors. But once you're successful, your appreciation of the quiet will have grown 10 fold.

Find the Noise Ordinances (Codes/Laws) for Your City

You'll feel a lot better once you find that there are many laws supporting you in your quest for peace and quiet. You can find these by visiting your city's website.

Look under headings like "City Services" and "City Departments." Then look for links to "Municipal Codes," "City Ordinates," "Noise Abatement," and "Animal Control." Or just try a search from the home page with these keywords: noise, noise complaint, barking dog, or loud music.

These ordinances may also provide you with information on which departments and agencies handle noisy neighbors or their barking dogs in your city. They may even include phone numbers, FAQ's, and how-to guides.

I'd recommend that you make a few copies of the ordinances that specifically addresses the noise problem that you are having. A copy of this ordinance will not only be useful for future reference, but it will strengthen any letters you write if you include it as an attachment.

Once you arm yourself with this information, you can proceed with a lot more confidence and assurance that the problems with your noisy neighbors can and will be solved.

Write a Letter & Clearly Explain the Problem & How to Fix It

As I mentioned before, writing a letter is the best way to solve a problem with noisy neighbors. Whether a letter fixes the problem, avoids a war, and keeps you anonymous is dependant on how carefully you write it.

Although it may be hard to imagine, sometimes there are neighbors who are simply unaware that the noise they or their dogs are creating is bothering anyone. In these cases, the problem can often be easily fixed with a carefully worded letter. With other neighbors, it may take a second or third letter.

Here are some letter writing dos and don'ts.

Dos

Include the date.

Include the noisy neighbor's name and/or address.

Use a generic return address e.g. Sleepless Silent Valley Neighbors.

Reference the problem on the envelop e.g. Party Hardy Neighbors.

Reference the problem in the letter greeting e.g. Barking Dog Owner.

Clearly explain the problem.

Describe how it is affecting your life.

Suggest a solution.

Ask for their help and cooperation.

Be as concise as possible.

Be firm but polite.

Be neighborly.

Be respectful.

Be humorous where appropriate.

Use first person plural pronoun "we."

Thank them in advance.

Attach a copy of your city's noisy neighbors ordinance.

Don'ts

Don't use threats.

Don't use profanity.

Don't use the words "noisy neighbors."

Don't use first person singular pronoun "I".

Don't include your name.

Don't include your address.

Don't include your phone number.

Don't reference other people by name or location.

Don't include your return address on the envelop.

Don't sign the letter.

Many of the above suggestions align with the anonymous approach, which I highly recommend. If your situation doesn't allow you to follow this approach, include as little personal information as possible. I would also suggest that you do not sign the letter. Signing it makes it a legal document. You don't want to give your noisy neighbors anything that might help them file a complaint against you. Although it's rare, you may come across a neighbor who will take some sort of groundless action against you out of spite. Don't worry about this. The authorities can see these actions for what they are right a way.

Do to Them as They Have Done to You

The desire to turn up your stereo or television 10 times louder than your neighbor's, so that they know what it's like, is normal. Revenge can be sweet, but it can also back fire.

You may rationalize that if they could hear it as I do they would stop. It took me awhile to realize several issues in this regard. (1) Although it's rare, some people are not sensitive to noise. (2) Some people are hard of hearing. (3) Some people are so self centered that they are oblivious to how their activities may be disturbing others.

Turning up the volume on your stereo or television so that your neighbor gets the "hint" works sometimes. Here are two things that you need to consider. (1) If they do not comply and turn down the volume, they will know the source of any future complaints. (2) Your actions could make matters worst and provoke your neighbor into turning the volume up even higher!

Whether you try this approach or not is a judgment call based on how you think your noisy neighbor might respond. It you suspect that there could be any kind of negative response, I advise against this action.

Although I have to admit that I've tried this approach with various degrees of aggressiveness, I am not proud it. It worked a couple of times, but usually it just aggravated the situation. I feel that it's better to treat your neighbors in the same manner in which you want them to treat you. Unfortunately, there are individuals in the world who are not receptive to positive vibes.

There is nothing more aggravating than having to deal with noisy neighbors or their barking dogs. This is especially true when you've discovered the problem soon after you moved into your new home. If you are dealing with this issue right now, let me assure you that the laws, police, and other agencies are on your side.

I hope that this information is helpful in solving or improving your noise problem.

Brad Paul
http://www.guruhabits.com/

To download a FREE copy of my noisy neighbor letters, just click on the link (near the bottom) in the original article here: http://www.guruhabits.com/noisy-neighbors.html.

Brad Paul is the founder of Guru Habits.com, which provides FREE self improvement and lifestyle enhancement resources.

Brad left home at 15, lived in a boy's home, graduated college with honors, headed a marketing group responsible for $400 million in annual sales, started a non-profit social services organization, wrote 3 books, and now works on projects that improve people's lives.

Adicted2Art Clothing Promo

2010-02-10T22:00:00.001-08:00

ADICTED2ART CLOTHING-THIS A LINE THAT SPECIALIZES IN CUSTOM HANDPAINTED CLOTHING.I AM BASED IN PHILADELPHIA,PA. I MANUFACTURE SHIRTS,HOODIES,HATS,JEANS,BOOKBAGS ETC...YOU CAN CUSTOMIZE YOUR OUT FIT FROM HEAD TO TOE..THIS CLOTHING LINE IS UNIQUE IN EVERY TYPE OF WAY FROM THE COLORS TO THE STYLES..YOU CAN ORDER DIRECTLY FROM MYSPACE.COM/ADICTED2ARTCLOTHING ..YOU CAN ORDER THAT SHIRT YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO MATCH WITH THOSE SPECIAL PAIR OF SNEAKERS..I HAVE ANY COLORS YOU CAN POSSIBLY THINK OF AND ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS PICK THEM OUT.ALL STYLES AVAILABLE IN MENS,WOMENS AND KIDS.I SHIP ALL OVER THE WORLD SO GO TO MY PAGE ADD ME AND PLACE AN ORDER..(SUBSCRIBE AND COMMENT ON THE VIDEO THANX.) ALSO YOU CAN SEE ME IN SKILLZMAGAZINE.COM---CONTACT ME THROUGH MYSPACE.COM/ADICTED2ARTCLOTHING OR MY EMAIL AT SHAWNSTAR86@YAHOO.COM......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwTce3j2Gwo&hl=en

CRUISING ON A JONAS BROTHERS LOVE STORY SEQUEL chp 8

2010-02-09T20:10:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIe_Z-swNaI&hl=en

MST3K Hobgoblins part seven

2010-02-08T15:20:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wym3BqGXifQ&hl=en

OTheTheatre's webcam video December 22, 2009, 07:31 PM

2010-02-07T12:30:00.001-08:00

a story about a family who turn into giants who wear black robes in their home and their child wears clouds when they go to their room but secretly they become clouds actually, the cloud vapour monads actually secretly wear ed hardy (don't tell the children)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLVo18YUQE4&hl=en

Tattoos and Time

2010-02-05T12:40:00.001-08:00

Tattoos have represented personal identity, affiliations, philosophy, and creative choices from Paleolithic man to Corporate Execs, and are gaining a new interest and popularity with both sexes. It’s a fact that 10% of the people in the United States have at least one tattoo somewhere on their body.

A tattoo by definition is permanent. Pigment is inserted under the epidermis with a needle or sharp object into the dermis where the color is captured by the body for all time … well almost.

Tattoos change over time because the skin is constantly changing from regeneration, sun, wind, water and other assaults. The appearance of a tattoo therefore must also change as the skin stretches, shrinks and ages. Pigment moves imperceptibly over time on a cellular level and elasticity and skin resiliency naturally decline. Age spots, tanning and wrinkles can take a toll on the clarity and color of tattoos too.

How well and how long a tattoo stays defined and the color vibrant is most affected by the immediate aftercare, and then the lifelong skin maintenance. Aftercare guidelines vary, but the common denominator is: prevent infection and promote healing to retain as much ink as possible in the tattoo. Tattoos generally heal completely within two to three weeks, but must be kept continually moist to prevent scabbing, which removes color from the tattoo.

A tattoo’s number one enemy is sun; tattoo pigments fade like all other color under direct sunlight; red and yellow are the most difficult color to maintain, black and blue is the most stable. Tattoos are part of the living skin organism and a minimal amount of color is treated like foreign molecules and transported away through the lymph system. The best defense in the battle of the fading tattoo is to stay out of the sun, cover the tattoo with clothing and wear a really good sunscreen.

Tattoos reside in the dermis layers and are seen through the epidermis. Simple common sense steps will keep the epidermis clean, healthy, smooth, and hydrated for optimal clarity of body art. Use a gentle cleanser weekly to remove the build-up of body oils, dirt, grime, and the dull ashy film that blocks the color of your tattoos. Daily use of a moisturizer (that dries with a residue free finish) reflects deeper color.

A tattoo that is expertly applied, healed properly and protected from the sun can remain vibrant for decades, but there is no escape from those changes that come, simply as a result of time.

Jolene Schwartz is a grooming specialist for over 20 years; as a master barber and licensed cosmetologist in her own men’s salon. She launched http://appearancesformen.com e-com site; writing monthly columns about men’s products, lifestyle, and offering the finest in men’s grooming products.

Storage Today Victim 10-31-09 Part 3.AVI

2010-02-04T12:00:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlTxETFT2QY&hl=en