Cyber-Storms on the Horizon

There's an on-going escalation cyber-war between nations, unseen and unheard by the world's general public who blithely go about their everyday business not realizing their vulnerability to a prolonged breakdown.

One factor rarely mentioned is the ever increasing risk of a "Fail Safe" incident in which a military grade cyber-virus goes 'rogue', out of control, escapes its electronic cage and spreads to key infrastructure sectors forcing shutdowns. Back-ups fail under the strain and a major western city or region plunges into the Dark Ages in which power cannot be restored for days even weeks. I'm referring to a cyber-beast of a virus that almost has a mindset of his own - borderline A.I. - obliterating and vaporizing firewalls and their operating systems everywhere as a nasty cyber-pandemic.

We're dependent and even coddled by modern technology. For this reason even prolonged cut-off such as a lack of access to food, water, money - could lead to civil unrest prompting the dispatch of militarized law enforcement with authorization to apply draconian laws. Worse yet, if the situation is so overwhelming then there will be no help at all. The food, water and sanitation will be compromised. Think of the horrors New Orleans suffered. Now imagine that impacting the entire West or East coast.

Tropical storms or infectious outbreaks can be detected and identified before matters get dire. Like an earthquake, a cyber-collapse strikes without warning. And even if you had one, there's no safe zone.

Civilization is no longer partners with technology, we're hostage to it. This relationship is particularly acute in high density cities particularly the mega-cities defined as those urban areas with greater than 10 million inhabitants. Worldwide hundreds of millions of urban citizens are dependent on power to cook their foodstuffs in small apartments that don't allow a large inventory of food. In fact, whether they have storage room or not, most families only have enough food for 2-3 days. For this reason there are security challenges to deliver supplies to emergency locations. Additionally banks and ATMs will run out of cash in less than 24 hours, and credit cards will be useless. This scenario is the makings of the manifestation of a genuine urban jungle.

Think of the computer Hal 9000 from the movie 2001 A Space Odyssey (1968) meets Fail Safe (1964). Such programs can run amok, take control, disconnect from their scientific and military masters creating confusion, chaos and panic. Programs are so complicated and consequently lethal, security cages become nothing more than a papier-mache holding pen until these programs go feral and run amok. Our practice and policy of making things ultra dependent on these programs is a recipe for disaster regardless how many counter-systems and checks are in place because there's always an escape hatch someplace, a vulnerability that is dismissed as unlikely to occur. Complete containment is an illusion and it's inevitable that new technology will wreck unspeakable havoc at some time in the future like all every cutting-edge technology before it.

Because of the quantum leap in technological advances, we can now redefine the Stone Age as the 1980s which means the successful early adapters to a major long-term disruption will be the Boomers while the Millennials frantically readjust to life without the internet.

Copyright Indo-Brazilian Associates LLC 2016. All rights reserved.

Indo-Brazilian Associates LLC is a NYC-based global advisory service and think tank with connections at the highest levels specializing in international investment, political and security risk assessments. International business is increasingly complex featuring a highly mobile professional class in all corners of the globe. We provide you the tools to successfully negotiate cross-culturally in your global business endeavors. Tell us about your challenges. We'll get you on the "Short List".

We provide executive coaching, speaking engagements, speechwriting and workshops. Contact us at http://www.indobrazilian.com



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The Blessed Broken Roads

Plans that never materialized, hopes that were never fulfilled, broken promises, shattered dreams; these are the broken roads in life. You probably only remember the significant ones and even then they fade into the past, somehow. Why, why, we wonder; how did this happen to us when we were so sure the path ahead was steady and sure? They happen to push us forward to something or someone who is a part of our life plan, to something better if we do not allow fear to enfold us.

The best laid plans that go awry are akin to the detours we are forced to take off the Interstate. We are redirected to scenic roads where we are treated to things we never knew existed, even if we traveled the road daily. There is something for us to see, to learn, to grow from. A new plan develops that is filled with something more than before. And in the end, we are better for having gained the things we gathered on the new route. When this happens our life has been redirected to the place we were meant to be.

We hope for things we imagine are unattainable or impossible, yet still, we hope it can be. Hope arises to guide us to the place, person or result that is on our life path, by design. When you arrive it may not look exactly as we imagined but hope inspired us to move forward; subconsciously we have developed a goal. Consider it as a planned destination on the road we have taken. We may encounter those famous detours, but keep moving forward in faith. It is the wind that fans the flames of hope.

Broken promises, broken relationships and friendships are painful. No one wants to encounter any of these breaks in the road ahead. Even if you are sure you don't deserve the pain, keep the faith. You are being pushed like a broken car into a new lane. There is where you will find what was intended to be in your life; the right partner, friend or even job. Let go of the old as soon as possible. Holding on to what has broken cements you in place, delaying or preventing you from arriving at your real desired destination. If you are even thinking of leaving a relationship you have already left it emotionally. It's goodbye time. Everything isn't meant to last forever. Some people or events are placed on the path to teach you something you will need to know down the road. Acceptance brings the freedom to move on. You can never lose what was real or meant to be.

Shattered dreams are the result of holding on when there is nothing real left to cling to. Combine that with fear that nothing can ever be as good as it was and you are staring at shattered dreams. Don't be afraid to let go; consider the situation as a live wire. So long as you cling you will feel the pain.

The blessings in the broken road, what are they? They are all those breaks that led you to the perfect road to arrive on time and intact at the place you were really always planning to go, to the person you were always intended to meet. They are the things that drive you to a new idea, a new place or person that enriches your life experience and brings comfort and joy... even when you imagined it was all gone. The breaks are the change we were always afraid to make. Be fearless; allow new hope, greater expectations and a new and better plan to form. It will guide the opportunities ahead to the perfect conclusion.

To learn more about this author please visit http://www.arkconnect.com. To learn more about her available books, please visit http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=alexa+keating+books or your favorite bookseller.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Now It Comes Again - Reading the Bible All the Way Through

Have you ever told yourself, this year I am going to read through the entire Bible! Yet if you are like most people I have talked to, you get started but stop after finding it just too much time and effort. Maybe you get through Genesis, but once you start Exodus, you think that's enough! Why? The following are reasons:

1. Too many distractions. You probably find that trying to read a few chapters a day gets crowded out with other things you haven't finished. For example, have you finished responding to your email? Have you responded to your Facebook requests? etc., etc..

2. Seems too confusing. The Bible was written centuries ago and it can be difficult at times relating it to modern issues.

3. Like to just get to the point. Considering all the time to read the whole Bible, it seems easier to just listen to some inspirational messages or sermons.

All the same, I believe taking this journey through the entire Bible is well worth the effort. Why?

1. The Bible has influenced millions. A few months ago, my wife and I visited the Huntington Library in San Mateo, California, and we were impressed with the book on display at their library of books called the Gutenberg Bible. This was a huge display because we learned this was the first major printed book. The developers of the moveable type printing press felt the first major book should be the Bible. This right there shows the importance of this book as an influence to societies around the world.

2. Individuals have attested to the value of reading the entire Bible. I was first motivated reading the entire Bible about seven years ago by one of my assistant pastors. He told me that he had read the Bible over 25 years in succession and this experience had "changed his life." His understanding and faith in his beliefs had become dramatically stronger. Since then, I started reading through the entire Bible and can attest to the same thing! I would say since reading through the Bible now several times, my faith has increased about five times.

3. Resources are available to assist you in reading through the entire Bible. There are sources you can obtain that will be helpful by providing you a yearly plan, and giving you assistance and insights as you go along.

So in summary, this coming year, I would encourage you to take that step of reading through the entire Bible. You might find it life changing for yourself!

One resource you might use in reading through the entire Bible is "A Path Through the Bible (2nd Edition)" by Dave Clark. This book provides a daily plan, space for journaling, insights by others, photos from Israel and other aids to your reading. It can be easily obtained through Amazon.com or you can check with the author at http://www.read-the-word-ministry.com. for quantity discounts, perhaps towards a group Bible study.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Powerful Guidelines to Make 2017 the Best Year of Your Life

Are you ready to make 2017 the greatest year of your life? Arriving at the end of your coming next to New Year makes you feel accomplished, motivated and in awe of who you've ended up in 52 life challenging weeks. You might wonder what it would truly mean for you to have the power to make 2017 the greatest year of your life. Would you need it all together? It's a time for celebrating and getting together with family.

It's a time for considering the greater part of your accomplishments for the year. It's a time for backyard cricket and it's a period for beach, sun and a lot of open air activities.

Steps to making it the best year of your life

Scheduling your way of life and the exercises you plan to do in 2017 will help you to figure your pay and guarantee your life is adjusted the way you seek it to be. So frequently individuals have a fantasy and a dream for their life yet they don't invest the energy to really outline what that resembles.

If you need to take more holidays, include them in!

If you need to profit by developing and selling an item or administration, include it in!

If you need to accomplish real objectives like finishing a marathon or losing 20kg of weight, calendar the due date in!

Here's the way to arrange out. Don't hesitate to duplicate or modify it or include it depending what you're attempting to accomplish in your life.

Schedule all of the birthdays of your family and of your closest friends

It's essential to celebrate with those nearest to you and having it schedules helps you to remember preparing to get something special furthermore so you keep the date free.

Schedule all of the holidays you wish to take

For this, begin with the public holidays. In case you're in India, You can effectively plan the general public holidays in your layout. Scheduling holidays is super-important. It gives you something to anticipate which keeps you engaged in during the time you're working, yet it additionally serves as an opportunity to relax, restore and refocus on what you're accomplishing in your life.

Schedule the major business/career events that you want to achieve

For example, I've scheduled the item dispatches, group challenges or other promotions that I plan to do in 2017 for my business. This gives me clarity on what I have to concentrate on and when and in addition a superior expectation of my salary for the year.

Schedule weekly or regular activities that you will need to complete

For example, I've scheduled the item dispatches, group challenges or other promotions that I plan to do in 2017 for my business. This gives me clarity on what I have to concentrate on and when and in addition a superior expectation of my salary for the year.

Schedule weekly or regular activities that you will need to complete to move you towards your larger goals

For example, I've scheduled when will publish a blog or video to my business. In spite of the fact that I haven't yet decided precisely what every blog will be about, I've given every date a general subject that I will cover which feeds back to what you have got some information about.

Entering the New Year with charity

Going into the New Year with clarity on how long will have off versus how long will spend on making versus how long will spend on advancing and so on truly helps you to feel calm and collected about the year ahead.
You can enter the New Year with full information that your life will be adjusted and that you will accomplish the things that you have wanted to do (the length of you stick to it). It will likewise help you to abstain from getting focused or overpowered.

Prudently active in social platforms, factoring the algorithms of search engines with little disregard for their secrecy. She works and play in wine, crafts blend, supports Messie and fancy Richard Gere.



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Ever Wanted to Know How Many People Died in 2016?

I typed "how many people died in 2016?" into my browser's search engine. I found it no surprise that Wikipedia came up as the very first result. I thought, I wonder what figure it will tell me. I found it astounding that the only people Wikipedia recognised who had died in 2016 were those who had some sort of public status, reflected in a Wikipedia page devoted to them as a person.

More people than that died in 2016. Your uncle. Your grandfather. Your son or daughter. Your mother. Your sister. Or it was a friend who had some loss that shook their world. A loss they cannot yet let go of, and may never do, in the ultimate sense.

There is much ado made about the celebrities we've lost (as if these people were ever ours, anyway?) in 2016. Statistically speaking, it's very doubtful that 2016 would be any worse a year than 2015 or the coming year, 2017, will be in that regard. Roughly the same amount of celebrities each die every year, give or take.

But that's not the point of what I'm writing this for.

For every person who has died, for everyone bereaved because of each person's loss, solemnity is owed. What has occurred in their loss is something that has changed them forever. And for the person gone, they're gone. Sure, we can celebrate that they're 'in a better place' (if we believe they are) but all their life is gone. It's done. It's history.

There is nothing good about death other than thinking about ours can cause us to cherish our life a whole lot more.

So, if you lost someone dear to you this year, whether that person was a celebrity or not, your loss, and that person, is as important as anyone is.

And, by the way, the average deaths per annum is 55.3 million persons - each one, special.

Steve Wickham holds Degrees in Science, Divinity, and Counselling. Steve writes at: http://epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com.au/ and http://tribework.blogspot.com.au/



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You Can Change Your Story

Is your life filled with drama? Do you have many conflicting drives and emotions that overflow to your energy level and weigh you down? Do you self-doubt? Have you been stuck for many years in sadness, pain, and endless "why me" scenarios?

Let me ask you this how many more years of your life do you want to live like that? Can you actually change or are you finding excuses to support your dilemma? Do you blame your emotional pain on circumstances or things around you, telling yourself you have no control over it?

Often a painful childhood or a painful young adult experience creates a victim mindset in an otherwise strong, powerful, creative adult. But you must understand that your pain is only one layer of your story.

You see we all have our stories, but the difference is between the choices of story, there is the story of those who do and those who don't.

All stories are one of two types' either warnings or examples; you decide which story to live by. Here is the beauty of life, if all your life your story was a warning you can actually turn it around to an example in seconds. To let go of your negative story you need to be filled with life, fun and force.

The first step is to understand your pain and see where it is coming from. Then recreate the purpose of your past pain to serve better your future.

Many choose anger as a self-shielding emotion, making it part of their story, which is a more resourceful tool than depression. As it is a way to justify pain, to cling onto the excuses that justifies negative emotions. If your story leads you to pain and you don't want to be in pain then you should simply change your story to one that would lead to fulfillment and happiness.

The negative person or thoughts you are is serving a purpose in your life, but deriving these negative emotions makes you be the victim once more, takes you back to that abused child, or betrayed young adult.
You made yourself believe that this negative person is a part of who you are as a person, but in fact it is not, it is simply the story you chose to live by. In fact I'm sure if you look around you will see that your life also has blessings, but you chose to focus on the bad and ignore the good.

Another way of looking at it is by perceiving the negative situations that you endured in your past as the reason of whom you've become today. Most probably it is what gives you your passion, intensity and drive; the strength you had to withstand and overcome your trauma is where you get your confidence. So the solution is to find an alternate meaning to your pain. It is a revelation when you realize that the worst days in your life are truly your best days, as it was from that endured pain and hurt that you've become the person you are.

Realize that everyone at some point or another goes through injustice and pain from other people, it is part of how we grow spiritually. There is no possibility to pull muscle without lifting something heavy, and if you don't lift it, life will crush you. Sure lifting those emotional weights off your shoulders would be painful as it is not easy to lift such burdens, but the day you decide to change your story, is the day that makes you no longer pressed down by your past.

If anyone suffered abuse in any way physically, mentally, emotionally, verbally or sexually when the injustice goes to that level it creates a spiritual pain not just a physical pain. You must realize that there was a meaning in all of it, for something greater, greater than just you. The day will come when you say if it wasn't for all that I hated most I wouldn't have what I love most. Make your experience a vehicle to maximize your spirit and well-being.

Maybe you start to realize that the problems in your life are actually gifts, for where would we be without our problems, life will be dull and unchallenging without them. So use your problems to give meaning to your life.

You have to decide to enjoy all that your life has to offer, good as well as bad, because there are always things beyond your control and it will only benefit you if you never limit your story.

By taking the story of pain and turning it into a meaning and journey you elevate your future.

To learn more about my coaching services and get amazing free motivational content check out my site http://www.mira-coaching.com/
 
 
 
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The Healing Of Yourself, By Yourself

Some of the greatest healing in reality and in history have not come from medicine or "real" science, but from the mind itself. This is what this article is all about. Indeed, I am not saying anything like "forget the World Health Organization" or "depend on quackery and believe in it enough, it will ultimately heal you through your belief", nothing like that. But, I am saying pretty much what Sir Francis Bacon said once, "science and nature with good aid always succeeds, with hindrance and negativity, everything fails". That is pretty much the premise of this article. It is all for medical science and good healing, but it is against quackery and pure blind belief.

So, I will explain my position completely: I believe in traditional medical science, but if it can be aided by positive feelings, positive beliefs and positive visualizations within its auspices, then it is not quackery to me, but simply an aid to genuine healing if you get where I am coming from. Sure, I will use medicine and bandages when needed, but, when push comes to shove, I will also use alternatives as a legitimate aid to those medicines, bandages, and the like.

For example: I meditate and do some yoga, I walk a mile and a half to work almost every day and do calisthenics at home to keep myself in shape and in good physical condition. That illustrates part of what I mean, but not all of it. Here is the rest, I keep my thoughts positive and sanely patient for the most part so that I can deal with things better. What I am saying with this is that negativity and laziness does not help overall health in any way. In fact negativity and laziness help create bad health, and medicine does not cure that. Only, positivity and industriousness in the first place can prevent the problems ultimately.

As for serious illnesses, I am definitely not saying "go quack!" Not at all, but I am saying that they are preventable by basic measures in the first place in a sense with positivity and industriousness instead of laziness. I will even say that meditation, mental and spiritual discipline will help also. But what hinders, does hinder, and what helps, does help. So, to prevent, I am really saying you must help instead of hinder yourself. It all starts there anyway. So, I say one last time: This is not an article against traditional medicine or cures, this is an article to logically enhance them. Get it?

My name is Joshua Clayton, I am a freelance writer based in Inglewood, California. I also write under a few pen-names and aliases, but Joshua Clayton is my real name, and I write by that for the most part now. I am a philosophical writer and objective thinker and honest action taker. I also work at a senior center in Gardena, California as my day job, among other things, but primarily I am a writer.
 
 
 
 
 

Getting Fed From the Buffet of Life, Love, and Faith

I love you. I need you. You need me. We are better together. As a 49 year old man, in 2016, during the political campaign, I know these words are hard to come by, hard for some to hear, and may even be harder to process in these days.

I grew up in small suburb of Omaha, in a single parent family in the 70's. I rode my bike a mile, or so, down the road to pick up milk and bread throughout the week as needed, with no worries or second guesses of my safety.

We knew our neighbors, and they knew me. They also had permission to use my middle name if needed!
I attended the local Baptist Church for Sunday School. I liked going shopping with mom to Hested's, and then to Baker's for groceries. That was our routine on most Sunday's. I loved people walking by and saying hello to my mom, calling her by her name. My mom knew everyone, it seemed.

One important life lesson I learned from mom before she died, was that you always make room for others... in life, at the dinner table, and especially when they need you.

As I look back, it was only a matter of time before I realized I was to be a Chaplain. I had been on that path my entire life. It was not until I was 42 that I realized my calling. Sometimes I think I was late in life, or born during the wrong generation. And I am always reassured I am right where I am to be, for now.

Today we live in a day and time that our culture speaks, teaches, and promotes things, ideas, and events that often divide us, that separate us, that disconnect us.

I see that too often, faith is one of those. So many people, since the beginning of time, have been killed, wounded, and been separated from family and friends in the name of religion. That is not to say that there are not some happy ending stories, and there are. I am painfully aware of the hurt, harm, and disdain that religion has caused, is causing, and what may be in the future.

In seminary, they sure tried to undue some of my habits, some they could. Some they could not. One is when preparing for the message, we find the scripture, and tell a story. For me, I had to tell the story, and find scripture. And not every time would I link my story to scripture. Sometimes the story stood on it's own.

Today, I share a concept that religion and faith, is a lot like a food buffet. Stay with me... when each of us goes to the food buffet, do we ALWAYS eat every item on the buffet? And is anyone's plate going to be identical? I think most people would answer no to each question.

And I submit that because our choices in food, and in what we think about faith and religion may not the be same, is that any reason for us not to sit at the same table to eat, love, and share life? Again, I bet most would say no.

The unfortunate thing is that, we don't seem to live like that, as nice as it may sound. We too often allow politics, religion, education, color of skin, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other factors prevent us from sitting at the same table.

I share a message and belief that you are not alone. No matter who you are, where you from, who you love, or what you believe; you are beautiful, loved, and worthy, just as you are.

I love you. I need you. You need me. We are better together.
 
 
 
 
 
 

How Standby Letter of Credit Is Useful for Financial Funding and What Is It?

A standby letter of credit is a Promise of payment issued by a bank on behalf of a client will receive payment upon the presentation of described documents in the event the buyer fails to pay the beneficiary according to the terms of the contract. It mostly used in national construction projects and in international commerce. The buyer in this gives instructions for making the document.

The format of letter of credit under a Standby letter can also be beneficial for payment on a deal. When reclaimed, the letter pay costs a broker and also the letter can be beneficial in a land development work to make sure that the permitted people investment will be assembled. The corporations to a Letter credit are generally a recipient who is to earn the money, the issuing bank of whom the applier is a client and the advising bank of whom the recipient is a client.

The key thing to remember with the standby letter of credit is bank it deals only in documents or goods and does not comprise them in the assurance and bond between two groups immediately. The only anxiety of issuing the bank is the circumstances and terms of the letter. There are numerous banks that are capable of providing this letter.

The Categories of standby Letter of credit:-
  • A performance Standby: - This category of letter maintains accountability except paying money, comprises of the advantage of loss happens from a fails to pay of the applicant in completing the fundamental deal.
  • An advance payment Standby: - This category of letter maintains the commitment of early payment done by the recipient to the supplier.
  • A bid bond or tender-bond standby: - This letter maintains the commitment of the contender to accomplish a contract if the contender is rewarded a bid.
  • A Counter standby: - This supports the emergence of an independent replacement by the recipient of the contradict replacement.
  • A Financial Standby: - This maintains the duty to pay the amount, inclusive of any tool pointing a duty to pay the rented amount.
  • A direct Pay: - This substitute maintains payment when due of a primary duty especially in relation with financial substitute without access to an offense.
  • An Insurance Standby: - This maintains a protection responsibility of the contenders.
  • A commercial standby: - This maintains the responsibility of a contender to pay for services and goods in the occurrence of no expense by other modes.
In relation to other types of letter of credit, the standby letter of credit is more profitable for commercial. This kind of letter uses original bill and documents of shipping in order to earn amount for the retail from a buyer to seller. The standby letter of Credit is comparatively new to the international commerce world and consequently it is officially new as well.

If we have proper knowledge of the Standby Letter of Credit, the profit - making protection compared to no expense is the most significant one.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Good and Bad in Gaming

Gaming is one of the biggest hobbies and even careers in the world. People play games for fun or learning while others record videos about the games. In this article, I will focus more on gaming itself and not so much the side of how to make gaming videos. Gamers come in all different ages, genders, religions, locations and shapes. The backgrounds of people who are gamers make gaming that much more fun.

Backgrounds of gamers can play a part in the type of games that people play. There are all kinds of combinations for different categories relating to the type of games and type of gamers. You really need to look at the game's website to get all the pertinent information prior to buying.

There are many online platforms where you can buy games from such as Steam or Humble Bundle. Those sites will give you the description, videos by the company, pictures, user and non-user tags, reviews, website, company and their social account(s). Be aware the game's website might not show you everything you need to know. As a minimum, a gaming company will show a short sales pitch description, small amount of pictures (5 at best), one or two videos by them and their social accounts. The most they will provide is an informative description, their social accounts, user reviews and videos by them.

Let's dive right into what is perceived as negative about gaming. The majority of the negative things about games come from the real-life people on those games, the type of games and the types of games for the wrong person. A game can be poorly made but it's not always the case where the game itself is bad. It could be where it was the wrong type of game for the wrong person. This is where the categories come in. Maybe a game has a bit of violence. That doesn't make it bad; it just makes it the wrong type of game for a seven year old. Or maybe you bought a puzzle game for a person who loves action type games. So the action loving person won't enjoy it, but that doesn't make the puzzle game bad!

The types of games are endless from nudity, drugs and alcohol, horror, gambling with money and more. These different types are wrong for youth gamers as well as wrong for people who don't like seeing such things.

Gaming has good and bad sides just like everything else. The key is how good and bad are those sides. For example, some games have a bad side with players that like to fight a lot. This is common in games.

Understand for a lot of gamers this is not a big deal; however, for youth who are new to the game or even gaming in general this can be frustrating. There are times when you want to avoid the bad sides all together. There are times when the good outweighs the bad. If this happens and there are no problems with the game itself; then the bad side is just that one little fly in your room which is no big deal. Caution: If the bad outweighs the good, I would strongly recommend avoiding that game.

Another aspect that people will nag a game developer or creator about is representation. Should I say, a lack of representation which is not limited to race, body type and message in the game. If you are able to customize your character, then of course you will not have a problem with representation. There is a problem in some games where they don't represent strong and smart females, minority females and males, big, small, tall, and short females and males. Notice how I didn't put "males" after female for strong? That's because males in games are ALWAYS represented as strong and smart.

In games that show a male strong and smart, he will mostly likely be white, tall, thin, movie star looking and buff. You will rarely see him be a minority, short, chubby, not buff, nerdy looking, while still being strong and smart. You see this even LESS for females. Some females in games are also white, tall, thin and strong while showing skin like no tomorrow. You only see THESE females in MMORPG games (Massively Multiplayer online Role Playing Game) though. RPG games are meant for fantasy worlds where you mostly fight people and monsters. Of course the females' stats will be strong but they won't look strong.

In most games, when they add a character for you to play they always add a white male first, then a white female, then a black male, and then a black female. They don't even really add people who are mixes of races or in between. When it comes to the black characters they only add one shade of "black" or "African American" and not every black person on earth is that shade.

In games, the majority of the characters are always thin and tall. You don't really see characters that are short and thin, tall and chubby, short and chubby, etc. There are a lot of people who aren't thin and who aren't tall.
Then lastly, there is the mental message that goes with the gender, race, and body type. What do I mean by the mental message? Some games send an indirect message about that character being strong and smart or something else. While for other games it can be a mental message either on purpose or not. For example, in the game you play and you see a minority female who is short, chubby, nerdy looking and her traits are to be a goof ball, naive, and dumb. It could send a mental message to you that people that look like her are just like her. They're not smart, they aren't thin, and are not tall. They did poorly in school, etc. etc. So you start thinking those things based on not only seeing this in that game over and over again, but when it happens in other games too.

The worst part is NONE of these things are true. Yes, some people aren't thin, tall, and maybe not that bright; but not EVERYONE is like this! You do have short chubby minorities who are smart as all get out! You have all kinds of combinations of people who ARE smart! Of course, all these things about gender, race, body type, and messages aren't just in gaming; they're in movies, TV shows, ads, etc. What's interesting is that some of the creators who make the games, movies, TV shows, ads, etc., are minorities themselves and they make up the population of the earth. (Search "world population by race 2016" and click the first three links if you don't believe me.)

Quick disclaimer: I AM NOT BASHING ANYONE! Yes, I was shouting that. This section of the article is telling you what I know, read, hear and experience in gaming.

If you don't believe me go look at today's TV shows, movies, ads, and games. A show to look at for good representation is Milo Murphy's Law. Two games to look at as a reference for good representation are OverWatch and Atlas Reactor. Now in these fields it has gotten better for representation specifically gender, race and just now starting body type (specifically in this order). Some games even add robots and creatures as playable characters to avoid having problems with representation. This removes the problem of users wanting a character to represent their actual or preferred gender, race, or body type because now there is a character most users can agree on. After all, you can't please everyone.

Alright, now that I ranted and got the bad stuff out of the way; let's get into the good parts of gaming! You have gamers as young as three years old and as old as 90+! No matter your age, race, gender, religion, culture, or location gaming can be good for anyone. Gaming can not only be fun, but beneficial and educational.

A benefit with gaming is it can help youth have more confidence in themselves and be more social. If they play an online multiplayer game and talk to other players around the world, this can help then get used to talking to other people besides family and they gain confidence in what they're saying. They can go from an introvert to a social fanatic! It can happen fast or slowly. Even if it's not a game but a place for gamers, artists, fashion designers, car enthusiast, etc. to chat; it will still help them be more social. Keep in mind though, typing to someone and then voice chatting to someone are two different experiences. Youth can be very social when typing but very shy when voice chatting.

This is how I am. Before I was shy when talking to people I didn't know whether it was online or offline, now I've become more comfortable with it because I know how to handle myself and have confidence in myself. But when it comes to voice chatting online, I'm the quiet person on the chat. Counterproductive right! You might even forget I was in a call with you! Before when the people at the bank said "Hi" I wouldn't say anything, now I actually respond and say "Hi. How are you?" After that I don't really expect to talk with them so I'll be quiet again lol. See what I mean? After socializing, in general, over time you get better at it and become less nervous and more confident in yourself.

Another benefit with gaming is team work. Sometimes in games the only way to win or accomplish a goal is to work with one or more players. In certain games, players are allowed a task can be accomplished with only one player, but it might be harder unless you have more players than yourself. Other times certain tasks can't be accomplished with one player and need two or more. There are times you make a group with your friends or family to finish the goal. Other times you can make a group with people you didn't know.

This is where it can get tricky. If it's a game where you can make a group that's invite only, you'd just invite your friends or family. You can strategize with them, you'd be more comfortable talking with them, and you'll all agree to work together. If it's a game where there is no group system but you can still work with others, aka free for fall, and you can talk with them there may still be a goal that can only be completed with multiple players. Do you have to play with other players you've never talked to before if your family and friends can't join you and you really want to complete this goal?

This isn't a bad thing though! This is where you not only become more social but you learn how to work with other players you've never met before. If you always play with your family and friends you both already know how to work together, how the other thinks, etc. But if it's someone you've never met it can be a little difficult. Me and my brother grew up doing everything together without really having any friends, maybe colleagues and associates but not really friends. So we were very used to knowing what the other wanted or how they played etc. But when we actually got two friends, it was very difficult to agree on many things. So if you play and work with other people now it will be easier later. Me and my brother have improved our skills to work with others.

Another benefit is patience which ties in with team building and socializing. After all, in order to get better at something you not only have to keep doing it but you have to have patience while doing it. There are many times in games where you have to wait. Just like reading is in everything, you have to have patience for everything. In games you always have to wait for something. You need to have patience for finding something, something to finish cooking, something to finish dying, your friends to come back from going afk (Away From Keyboard), the next wave of monsters to come, the next level to open up, etc. etc. I had to have patience when writing this article! So gaming can help you have more patience in gaming and everyday life.

Another benefit is hand and eye coordination. When you're gaming you have to pay attention to what's happening on your screen while also pressing your controller or keyboard button to do more things on your screen. If you want to move your character in that game, you have to use your keyboard and mouse or a controller while still looking at your screen. It's like learning how to type. Most of the time you're supposed to learn how to type words and sentences while looking at your screen without looking at your keyboard. This same thing applies to gaming. You have to be able to press the needed keys in order to accomplish that thing you're trying to do while looking at your screen. After all, if you're pressing your keys but not looking at your screen, how are you going to know if you're doing it right?

Now, this one is a benefit and educational benefit - memory. Games can help improve your memory. How? Let me tell you. Take what I said above about typing. The people who can look at their screens and type without looking at their keyboard have something called "muscle memory". When they want to make a certain letter appear on screen they just have to press that key and they don't have to look at the keyboard because they have press that key so many times they themselves and their muscles remember where that certain key is. You have muscle memory already. Don't believe me? Take a look at your keyboard right now. You see where all the letters, numbers, and symbols are right? The letters are not in alphabetical order. So whenever you tried to type your name or something on a digital keyboard where the letter were alphabetical; Did you take you longer than usually to type that word and was it weird and confusing? It was. I've done it.

You know why?

When you type or text to someone you know the word you want to make appear on screen and you remember where the keys are. Maybe you can't tell them in order if someone asked you but if they asked you to type a word you'd be able to type it because you know where the keys are. For me I know how to spell certain words when I'm typing but maybe not how to spell it verbally. This is because I'm seeing the word being spelled in front of me. Technically when we type to each other we're spelling out words and then reading them in our mind. But when you speak out loud you don't see the words you just hear them. Sure, when you read text on screen you hear them in your mind, even right not you hear these words I'm typing, but you don't verbally hear them and you're seeing each letter make up that word. When someone spells something wrong you immediately notice it because it's not spelled right and you read it. When someone speaks something you don't read any letters, you only hear the word.

So games can help you build up muscle memory and mind memory. If you can store items in game you have to remember where you put it, or if you need a recipe to make something you might remember the recipe, or maybe you remember a detail about something important, or maybe you remember the way through a maze or the way home. Some games are even built just to help improve your memory or the only way to keep progressing is remembering certain facts. My mom can type without looking at the keyboard but struggles with trying to walk in games.

So now let's get into the educational benefits. One educational benefit is math. Now, the game doesn't have to have a goal to teach you math in order for it to have math. The point of going to school is to get an education! Not socialize, but you still might make friends. So this applies to all games. The game doesn't always have to have a goal of J but it might include J. Its goal might be X but it might still have J. In some games you can build houses and use recipes to make items. How big do you want your how to be? 30 blocks X 10 blocks X 60 blocks? Did you understand what I just said? Let me say it differently. 30 blocks on the X axis (left and right on the ground), 10 blocks on the Y axis (up and down on the ground), and 60 blocks on the Z axis (up and down in the air). This is how you'd build a house, using math, in a game called Minecraft. With these coordinates it means your house will be a rectangle with a very tall roof. Let's use Minecraft again for this next example.

If you want to make 4 swords for example, what do you need? You need wood and iron. How much wood? How much iron? We'll start with the handle. You need two sticks to make the handle for one sword. One wood log can be turned into four wooden planks, take two and you can then make four wooden sticks. You want to make 4 sword handles. So how many wooden logs do you need? One. For the sword itself it takes two pieces of iron. You want to make 4 swords, so how much iron do you need? Eight. See? Depending on what you're making and how many of that thing the recipe can call for lots of resources or just a few.

Another educational benefit is problem solving. There are lots of games with puzzles or none but it can still include problem solving. A good game for example is Scribblenauts Unlimited. In this game you go to make different places solving people's problems to make them happy which gives you an item to cure someone. In order to solve their problems, you have to use adjectives and nouns to solve the problem itself or make something to solve the problem. The best part is you can solve that problem many different ways and no way is the wrong way. Some games even change based on your choices and we call these "paths". Some paths can change, stay on the same route, or end. So you need to solve each problem the best way otherwise you may choose the wrong path or a path that ends.

Another educational benefit is reaction timing. If you don't want to die in a certain game your reaction to something could be the deciding fact of your survival or grave. The more you test your reaction timing the faster you will get and soon you'll be able to react to things quickly. This can come from games with combat like MMORPGs, shooters, and PvP (Player V Player).

You do a lot of these things in games without even knowing it! When you play that game you just have to do A, G, M, and S to do whatever it is you're trying to do, without knowing in the real world those skills are technically called B, H, N, and T and used in 3, 6, and 9. See? So you just have to get used to applying those skills in the real world.

Some games are better for certain ages or interests. Some games are meant for little kids, some are for teen and young adults, and others are for adults. Then there are games just for people interested in robots, cars, fashion, princesses, ice skating, etc. So the games could have the same benefits, but those benefits might be better for certain people than others.

Some games are being used in schools or college, as tests for robots and even to teach certain topics. I recently got a game that will teach me how to read and write the Japanese characters while surviving in a game world. Some people who don't speak English now know it enough to talk to English speakers just by playing or watching games in English! If you find someone who knows how to speak, read, or write a little Japanese; ask them if they have watched Anime. Most English speakers know some Japanese because they play or watch Anime things.

So when you see your youth or grandparents playing some games, don't think it's bad. It could be helping their memory, problem solving skills, math skills, or they may be learning another language or learning more about a topic.

As you read, there are good and bad sides to gaming. I recommend you just have fun and be safe while gaming. There are plenty of games out there for every type of person and more games are still coming.

Games can help you improve and teach you skills you not only use in game, but you will use in school and in the real world. Games can help you get sharp and stay sharp. Have fun gaming and y'all stay safe!

Erica Wagner is a Teenpreneur, Best Selling Author, YouTuber and Instructor. She has been online since becoming a teenager. Erica's YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/c/VirtualVelScience.
 
 
 
 
 

Wes Craven - A Tribute

Wes Craven, one of my all time favourite horror directors, sadly passed away in August 2015, aged 76. Although all we horror fans can no longer look forward to a new Craven production, we can of course always savour and revisit the wonderful legacy he left with such classic franchises as A Nightmare On Elm Street and Scream.

Wesley Earl Craven was born on 2nd August 1939. He was raised in Cleveland, Ohio, by a strict baptist family, who did not approve of his watching the more extreme kinds of movies for which he was later to become so famous. However, they didn't mind him watching more innocent, family oriented films like the Disney ones.

Craven graduated with an Honours Degree in Psychology and English, later attaining a Master's Degree in Philosophy and Writing. He then went into teaching, and while he was in this profession he made a short action feature with a student film club in Potsdam, New York. Much to Craven's surprise, this film actually made a fair amount of money for him, and this undoubtedly encouraged him to pursue film making seriously.
Craven's first major feature film was the notorious horror The Last House On The Left (1972), on which he collaborated with Sean Cunningham. This movie, about two travelling teenage girls who are viciously attacked and sexually assaulted by a group of psycho killers, shocked audiences all over America, and even made the video nasties list. And the movie's notorious reputation was only exacerbated by the fact that it came out just a few years after the horrific Charles Manson murders at Sharon Tate's home.

In 1977, Craven directed his second horror masterpiece: The Hills Have Eyes. This movie centred on a group of tourists who fall victim to a group of dysfunctional cannibal killers in the vast desert. Craven, apparently, got the inspiration for this movie from the 16th century story of the notorious Sawney Bean Clan, who were said to have committed similar atrocities along the costal pathways of Ballantrae, Ayrshire.

When Craven made A Nightmare On Elm Street in 1984, he certainly brought something outstandingly different to overdone slasher genre in the form of the hideously disfigured dream killer, Freddy Krueger. The Elm Street series of movies - although becoming a bit too facetious for some horror fans with all those Freddy wisecracks - went on to become one of the largest, lucrative franchises in American cinema history.

In 1988, Craven temporarily departed from the slasher genre to make The Serpent and The Rainbow. This was a voodoo/zombie movie reminiscent of the kind of films made so famous by such directors as George A. Romero and Lucio Fulci.

Twelve years later, Craven repeated the success of his Elm Street franchise when he made Scream. The creepy white mask that the black-hooded killer wore in this movie, and in all the sequels, became so synonymous with the Scream franchise, and has even become a popular item to wear with Halloween trick-or-treaters.

Aside from all the aforementioned movies, Craven did make some pretty good lesser-known films like Deadly Friend (1985), Cursed (2004), Dracula 2000 (2000), My Soul To Take (2010), and many more.
The tenth episode of the Scream TV series was dedicated to Wes Craven's memory.

Alan To (real name Alan Toner) is a successful author of Kindle books. He writes mainly in the ghost and horror genres. In addition to writing Kindle books and articles, he is also currently at work on his first novel.

His Amazon Author page is at: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Alan-Toner/e/B0088YISQ8/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

His official website is at: http://www.wirralwriter.co.uk
 
 
 
 
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Dario Argento's Dracula

Being a big fan of the Hammer Dracula films starring Christopher Lee (who, in my opinion, was the best Dracula ever), I always tend to view modern reboots of Stoker's famous vampire lord with a certain degree of cynicism. For me, all the Dracula films since Christopher Lee's have failed to recapture the magic and sheer entertainment value of the Hammer vampire, concentrating far too much on making the Count a sad, misunderstood, teen-appealing pinup boy rather than the traditionally terrifying, bloodsucking monster that we all come to expect. However, in regard to the latest take on the Dracula story - this time from Italian horror director Dario Argento - I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised, for it wasn't a bad little movie at all. And I liked it that much that I am even keeping it my DVD collection, something I rarely do, especially in regard to modern vampire flicks.

Without giving too much away, I will say that Dario Argento's spin on the Dracula saga is, for the most part, quite stunning and unique, for it includes certain elements (e.g. the way Dracula changes form and becomes not only the customary wolf but other animals too) which I have never seen before in a Dracula movie. There are also some quite sexy scenes in this movie too, which will raise quite a few eyebrows among those who are used to the tamer kind of vampire movie.

The photography, the costumes, the use of colors and the gothic set designs all combine beautifully to evoke great memories of the vampire movies of old. The fact that Argento made the storyline a little different to that of the Stoker novel did not at all detract from my general enjoyment of the movie, for it was quite interesting to see where the plot was going next, and after a couple of shocks I hadn't seen coming (especially the one involving the village axeman), I even thought that maybe this story would not have the happy ending we have seen time and time again in a Dracula movie, with the vampire hunters staking Dracula in his coffin as the young hero rescues his captured fiancee from the Count's clutches in the nick of time. It was such a dark, vicious, edgy movie that I even feared that Van Helsing himself might come to a grisly end at the hands of this monstrous, seemingly omnipotent vampire lord. Rutger Hauer - whom I loved in The Hitcher and who has played a vampire himself (in Dracula III Ascenscion and in the remake of Salem's Lot) - is fantastic in the role of Van Helsing, and I was really on the edge of my seat at the climax of the movie when he confronts Dracula and tries to save Mina, whom Dracula has hypnotised into believing that she is his for the taking.

The awesome special effects in this movie - especially where the staked vampires dissolve into dust - were the icing on the cake, and whilst the actor who played Dracula (Thomas Kretschmann) did not really have the creepy, menacing look that Christopher Lee had, he certainly made up for this when he launched into his ferocious attacks and his stunning transformations, in which he dispatched his victims in the most bloody way imaginable.

All in all, Dario Argento's Dracula is quite an impressive movie, and whilst I would not go as far as to say that it equals the brilliance of the Hammer Dracula films, it certainly is one I would highly recommend to any vampire fan to check out.

Alan To (real name Alan Toner) is a successful author of Kindle books. He writes mainly in the ghost and horror genres. In addition to writing Kindle books and articles, he is also currently at work on his first novel.

His Amazon Author page is at: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Alan-Toner/e/B0088YISQ8/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

His official website is at: http://www.wirralwriter.co.uk
 
 
 
 
 
 

Popular TV Characters Who Always Wear Bow Ties

Aways a late shopper for Christmas gifts, I was not surprised to find myself at the various retail stores in the mall in late December. I was more than a little taken aback, however, when one of those shops already had its spring fashions on display.

Among the attire labeled for the season, still three months away, was a rack of bow ties. To be given that much store room and such a big sign, I suppose someone predicts that the bow tie will be a hot fashion item when the temperatures start to rise.

Personally, I have never really liked wearing bow ties, donning them just twice in my life. The first came with my tuxedo for the prom, and the other occasion was while I was among the wedding party of a friend who tied the knot.

My indifference to the bow tie is not unusual. Seldom do you see anyone wearing that particular item, although a few television characters have regularly appeared with bow ties.

Here are the seven most well-known TV personalities who always wore a bow tie.

Uncle Joe Carson from Petticoat Junction

Kate Bradley's brother in law (played by Edgar Buchanan) has two distinct characteristics, a bow tie and an excuse to avoid work at the Shady Rest Hotel.

Howard Sprague from The Andy Griffith Show

Jack Dodson portrays this lovable milquetoast of Mayberry, North Carolina, who writes poetry and tries to bring more culture to the town.

Les Nesman from WKRP In Cincinnati

Disc jockeys Venus Fly Trap and Doctor Johnny Fever have to occasionally interrupt their records in order to let this newsman (played by Richard Sanders) provide updates to the goings on in the Queen City.

Dewey Largo from The Simpsons

Lisa sometimes aggravates this Springfield Elementary band teacher when she decides to break out into a solo with her saxophone.

Ike Godsey from The Waltons

His general store is the hub of Walton's Mountain, where Ike (played by Joe Conley) is almost as well-liked as John Walton himself.

Bill Nye from The Science Guy

Because of his choice of neckwear, the educational show could actually be called "Bill Nye the Science Guy With the Bow Tie."

Kenneth Dragan from Room 222

Always taking a back seat to Pete Dixon, Miss Johnson and Miss McIntyre, this English teacher (played by Ivory Francis) still managed to appear in eighteen episodes of the classic early seventies sitcom.
 
 
 
 
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Impact of American Movies On Our Lives

Providing thorough entertainment, movies are a source of indulging us in an imaginary world. At times, the movies are so enticing that we start believing in being a part of that movie. With work load and stress, life can get worked up, watching a good movie will help a person relax his mind by releasing emotional stress. A good entertaining movie will help you laugh and that can be a high stress reliever. Watching a good movie also revitalizes the mind to perform a stressful work in the future.

With over 2,577 movies roughly produced each year, movies are a very prominent part of entertainment industry. Movies are watched by individuals irrespective of their age, apart from the children under 18, for which parental guidance is required in some cases. Though movies are created for all watchers, there are movies created that are gender specific. For example, action and thriller movies are made predominantly for males. While romantic and drama movies are preferred by women. Genres of comedy, horror and suspense are watched by both the genders equally.

Animated movies though created fundamentally for children are one of the best kinds for all age group. These movies showcase an imaginary world and teach us lessons about love, morals and relationships. The movies help us understand and realize minor things in life that we shouldn't overlook.

Not only do movies teach us about humanitarian values. They also provide us knowledge on diversified subjects of culture, science, history, politics, technological advancements and so much more. The sci-fi movies help us glimpse into the future providing the amazing visual effects with 3D technology. We are also able to understand different environments and work culture and historical geographies of different countries.

Movies made on biographies helps us know the lives of legends and learn from their struggles, during their journey of success. Such movies inspire us to be at our best. It delivers hope and a new set of determination in fighting for our goals. Film industry is loaded with such inspirational movies that it uplift our spirits when we are passing through a tough phase of our life, whether it's instability of love, health or financial.

It is difficult to ignore the fact that American movies are also responsible for establishing false notion on several aspects. Showcasing perfect body image and portraying flawless characters give rise to unrealistic expectations. Movies give rise to violence as well, however, It's through the movies that we have learned that good guys always wins in the end.
 
 
 
 
 

Politically Left-Leaning Professors Are Attacking The New Trump Administration

We all know that most of academia in the United States leans far-left towards a very progressive (I believe regressive) agenda, and pretend to be very egalitarian in their viewpoints even if their arguments are as flawed as the worst socialist governments of world history. One would think that they of all people would have studied their history - such is not the case apparently.

Not long ago, I read a rather disturbing and hateful attack on Donald Trump by a wayward Chemistry Professor at our local university. It was an open letter to staff, faculty, and students, also endorsed by the University's Employees Union local. The letter was posted to a public website asking everyone who signed it to forward it and post it on social media, many did, and 138 people at the University had signed it.

The open letter to the faculty, staff, and public stated: "The undersigned faculty of the University stand together to protect our shared convictions and mission through deliberate action. We believe we must live our shared values: Our teaching will always explicitly reject the rhetoric of exclusion, and will focus instead on dialog that respects difference and seeks understanding."

With regards to this line in the open letter: "Our teaching will always explicitly reject the rhetoric of exclusion," surely one can see the frailty of this argument here - as such view-points are excluding any viewpoint that doesn't agree the letter writer, the undersigned, and probably 80% of the faculty at that university - whether or not they want to go out on a limb to sign and purposely offend the other 40% of our population in our community in California who voted for Donald Trump.

How can one state that this group of educators and staff "will focus instead on dialog that respects difference and seeks understanding," when they've condemned anyone who doesn't hold their views, voted for Donald Trump, as I did and my entire family have, and most all of my friends, and business associates (employers in our County and parents who have offspring at this Institution)?

If Universities are in a world of their own, and not subject to scrutiny from the public, then surely the public shouldn't be funding them, nor should the public be expected to bailout the Student Loan Program. Nor should we be funding their research so these professors can charge our Federal Research agencies their full-salary equivalents, we can get more bang for our buck with private companies. Let's turn off the University Funding if they want to "Fight" the will of the people and deny us our voice, so they can call us names, and shout us down. Enough of this.

Lance Winslow has launched a new provocative series of eBooks on the Future of Education. Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank; http://www.worldthinktank.net.



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What To Consider When Creating An Employee Rewards And Recognition Scheme

The right employee recognition and rewards scheme can offer workers a lot of benefits. These advantages include successfully motivating employees to maintain and improve their performance, giving them a clear idea of what behaviors and outcomes the organization values, and providing them a fair return for all their efforts.

If you are still starting an employee rewards and recognition scheme in your organization, below are some important things and tips to consider in the planning and implementation process:

Include your employees the actual design and planning of your recognition program. Seasoned HR professionals say that you don't actually need a lot of money to implement a meaningful rewards and recognition program. Most employees will take pride in a token award when this acknowledges they did a good job that successfully impressed their boss and peers. A good way to give your recognition program the credibility it deserves is to involve employees in creating and administering it. If they have a hand in designing it, they will know exactly what they have to do to earn rewards. This strategy can also ensure that the program provides everyone in the workplace with an opportunity to earn a reward.

Clearly identify the reward criteria. Awards for general benchmarks such as "innovation" and "quality improvement" can be a bit vague and don't define what employees need to do to win. Without specific details, some employees will be stymied before they start. In case of "employee of the month" awards, workers may think everyone's turn comes up eventually and they don't have to work hard to get this recognition.

In addition to outcomes, recognize behaviors as well. Generally, organizations reward results. Although this appropriate, this can lessen the opportunity to use recognition as a way to encourage poor performers to improve. By recognizing small behavior shifts in employees such as arriving on time, correcting mistakes, helping a co-worker, etc., you can reinforce incremental improvements. Also, keep in mind that when rewarding these changes, you don't have to spend a fortune; a sincere thank you or some specific positive feedback can already be an appropriate response.

Personalize the rewards you will be giving. To get the most out of your rewards and recognition scheme, give your employees what they want. One worker may be happy to get some additional time off from work; however, one may be more responsive to getting cash rewards.

Lastly, say "thank you" to your employees frequently. Saying the simple words "thank you" is one of the simplest and most important ways of recognizing employees. If you are sincere with your appreciation, this validates the importance of the work that your employees do.
Read more about creating employee recognition and rewards schemes here.
 
 
 
 
 
 

History of Computers - When Floppy Disks Actually Flopped

With the advent of early computers as far as the 80's and beginning of 90's, floppy disks were popular to store data. Everyone who handled computers also had access to these floppy disks. But technology advances all the time and it was time for floppy disks to flop. What did people prefer instead? Read on to find out.

Floppy disks could only store KB's of data. But peoples' demand for storing data was catapulting higher and higher. And CDROM disks were born. They could store several mega bytes of data.

Now CD's are also getting obsolete. It is the era of GB's of data in flash drives and terabytes of data in portable hard disks.

So how did floppy disks which were once in great demand and popular become outdated? One reason I mentioned earlier is their much less storage capacity. The other reason is people no more found them enticing. CD's, flash drives and portable hard disks seemed more promising and sophisticated.

I myself don't like using CD's any more. I only download whatever I need from the vast resource of internet and if I have any data to store, I use flash drives.

So the trend was floppy disks, CDROM disks, flash drives and portable hard disks and yes in that order. What's next? What have the great Tech guys out there have in mind? I am curious, really curious.

Surely, something more attractive and user-friendly with three-in-one facilities will turn up. For example, they can be connected to digital camera, laptops or computer and cell phones with the same size and design.

Now that would be interesting. One gadget being able to do all three would be great. I am in anticipation of that day.

Summing up, this article's focus was not actually on the history of computers but that of the accessories that can be connected to them. I hope you found value in what I portrayed here.

Years ago there were no computers - not to talk of floppy disks, CD's, flash drives and portable hard disks. But life still carried on. And people were simple and happy. But with the advent of these in modern life, the world has shrunk a lot but even then people don't feel satisfied and content with what they have. They have a strong urge to get more of these gadgets but in reality you don't need to be gadget obsessed and hoard in your home everything out there available in the market. You can still be purely happy and enjoy life without possessing all of them.

Rosina S Khan has authored this article, highlighting why floppy disks flopped and couldn't find their entrance in the modern era.

For a wealth of free resources based on stunning fiction stories, amazing self-help eBooks, commendable articles and quality scholar papers, all authored by her, and much more, visit: http://rosinaskhan.weebly.com. You will be glad that you did.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Importance of Apps on the PC

Technology has influenced each and every life. This has become an integral part of almost every person that we meet or come across every day. In fact, its effects are quite visible in the commercial and industrial areas.

Everything in the world from economy to entertainment, from the sports to stock market all detailed information are available to us through laptops and desktops.

Have you ever wondered how these personal computers have become so important? The massive importance of computers has been achieved by the implementing the web applications into the computers.

This can be availed by the users both through the browser and the client based applications.

What are these web applications?

A very important part of today's life is the World Wide Web. If you want to know anything about the world we are just a click away from it. This has become so easy because of the presence of internet. The medium trough which this information is transferred is commonly called web application or app.

How are the apps helpful for PC?

The apps are helpful in many ways and have made the functioning of the PC grow. Some of the ways are-

• The portals from which we chat with our friends by creating IDs are web applications that help people to stay connected no matter where they are.

• Another creativity of this world is the video calling app that not only connects people, but also enhances their conversation experience. This is done by giving them face to face talking experience in real time.

• Fast and easy communication is ensured by emails. An ID should be created here to send emails to the people one wants to communicate with.

• The users are given the chance of editing information if they find something irrelevant. Similar chances are provided in Wikipedia and other such information based sites.

• In the case of social media and blogging where the individual user are given the power to include their own material or writings. This can be effective done through computers.

Although all of these are very easy to use, but the making of it is not so easy. Several software and tools are used to design them and give them the present shape. Thus the way to use each application may vary from one to another. Whatever it may be, it should be accepted that all these developments and innovations have made the internet easier, like the way it is today.

To know more about shareit app for PC or shareit for PC, please check our website.
 
 
 
 
 

4 Things You Should Consider Before Going On a Spa Holiday

Going on a spa holiday can be one of the best ways to relax after months of working hard at your office. It will finally help you detach from all your worries and just enjoy the massages that your nerves so badly needed. However, before you embark on a spa holiday, you need to consider some things just to make sure that you get the best out of your money.

Here are the things you should consider before booking a spa holiday.

1. Is it Value for Money?

Spa holiday packages can be quite expensive and so you have to make sure that you get the best deal for your money. Check out the spa services online and read reviews left by earlier customers. You can also get in touch with the management and ask them about their services before booking a holiday. However, don't be in a hurry when you are booking a deal. Take some time to check out the variety of options available and book something only when you like it.

2. Will They Give You the Service You Are Looking for?

You might get have specific needs in mind when you are booking a spa holiday. For instance, you might be looking for Ayurvedic massages while the place you are travelling to might not be able to provide you with them. So, in order to avoid such things, tell the hotel what you need in advance. They might be able to make arrangements for you. If not, you can always check out other places. But, don't settle in for anything less than what you want because then you will not have a wholesome experience.

3. Can You Get a Better Deal?

As much as you like a spa package, don't be in a hurry to book it. Look around a bit and check if you can get a better deal. Sometimes, you can get cheap travel deals on certain travel sites if you start checking a few days in advance. If you are travelling during peak season, it's always better to book your reservations a bit in advance so that you get the best deal there is.

4. Does the Spa Have a Specialist?

Every spa should ideally have a specialist on board. If you are just looking for a relaxing massage, then you might not need them. But, if you are specifically looking for something therapeutic, then you should get in touch with a specialist. This way, you will be able to make sure that you get the service that you need.

A spa holiday can be the best way to relief stress and give some comfort to your sore muscles. Just keep these tips in mind while booking one.

Get in touch with us and cheap travel deals online today or call us now 1300 837 920. Complete travel agent services for corporate travellers. The experienced business best travel agents at Fortune World Tour support in your business travel management needs.
 
 
 
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Tourist Places To Visit In Budapest

Today we are going to give you a list of famous places which are a must visit on your visit to the beautiful city of Budapest. Budapest, the capital city of Hungary has got a lot to offer to its visitors, such as the Buda hills close to the river or shopping in Pest.

Castle: The Castle is situated on the hill, providing a panoramic view of the river and is probably an ideal location to begin the tour with. The National Museum, which is free, exhibits artwork from popular artists of Hungary. At a short distance you can find the famous cathedral with its colorful tiles of Hungary. Seven towers that overlook the river are a reminiscence of the 7 tribes that created the Hungarian Empire.

Parliament: The Parliament Building is located across the river and was chosen among the three other designs that are situated nearby.

Turkish Baths: Gellert is a very famous location in Budapest for Turkish Baths. It is beautifully designed with tiles and has a huge sauna and pool selection. You may wish to go for the mineral baths or an open-air wave pool or relax outside under the sun. You can also indulge in the pleasure of a Swedish steam room and saunas.

Statue Park: It is located outside the centre and contains huge stone statues of the Communist Era. You can purchase replica statues, photos and pictures from its gift shop.

Margit Island: This garden island lies among the banks of Pest and Buda. It has lots of parks and
 playgrounds. You can even rent a cycle or have a seat on the river banks for an amazing view.

Gerbaud: This is the most popular café in Budapest having a variety of pastries, cakes and delectable tea and coffee. You can also shop in the Gerbaud Plaza. There is an indoor market nearby as well that sells local meat and vegetables. You will also find stands selling handicrafts, local dishes and clothing. Goulash and the local sausages are worth a try.

Millennium Park: This park is in Pest and has a huge lake, theater and many museums. There is a thermal bathhouse too.

Plaza of Heroes: Plaza of Heroes contains statues of the former Presidents and the main tribal chiefs.

Terror House: This is a museum that gives you the experience of the Cold War and WWII.

These are some of the famous tourist attractions in Budapest. You should definitely visit these places when you visit Budapest to get a sense of history and entertainment.
 
 
 
 
 
 

The Road To Morocco - Part II

The King And I - When All Hell Breaks Loose

In this ordinarily peaceful country, there are numerous attempts on the life of former King Hassan II. I am present for two of them. Mom is safely back home in the states when Ambassador Rockwell and dozens of other diplomats attend an outdoor birthday party for King Hassan at his summer palace by the sea.
Though it is a stag celebration, I'm there to take photos for our embassy newsletter. I'm outside the main area with the rest of the minor staff when we hear gun shots and screams coming from the other side of the wall. We're ordered to lie face down on the gravel and not raise our heads. In a reversal of allegiance, one of the king's most trusted friends, General Mohamed Oufkir, is leading a military revolt to assassinate him and overthrow the monarchy.

When your face is squashed into gravel for any length of time, you either suffocate or try to breath through the side of your mouth by furtively turning your head. Some folks lose control of their bodily functions while others lay whimpering and praying. While I'm praying, someone grabs my camera and I never see it again. I love that camera, but I'd gladly swap it for my life. I didn't survive the Tet Offensive and a year and a half in Saigon only to die in beautiful Morocco-by-the-sea.

Carpe Diem!

Suddenly soldiers loyal to King Hassan II overpower the rebels, seize General Oufkir, and save the
monarchy. Ambassador Rockwell is safe, but in the barrage of bullets many other diplomats are killed. The local press claim "the traitor Oufkir is dead from multiple bullet wounds." Whether suicide or execution remains within the archives of the royal family.

Thuraya and The Spirits

Another attempt on King Hassan's life happens in the skies over Rabat. Thuraya, the beautiful Moroccan lady who looks after me and my apartment, has left for the day. When mom was here they were great pals, exchanging recipes in the kitchen, and carpet haggling in the souk. One day Thuraya took mom and me to a Hemmam. Similar to a Turkish bath, when we entered the steamy room, a gaggle of women surrounded us and began washing and scrubbing our naked bodies to a fiery glow. It's amazing what comes off the skin. Later, over glasses of sweet mint tea, we listened to mystical stories about the Sahara. Most Moroccans believe invisible jinn spirits inhabit the desert. I'm soon to find out for myself.

Britannia Rules The (Air) Waves

But now I'm alone in my apartment. No mom. No Thuraya. No jinn spirits. I'm getting dressed for dinner, singing along with Carly Simon's "You're So Vain" when I hear the buzz of an airplane and loud explosions. My terrace windows are directly across the street from the royal palace. They shatter into in a million pieces-glass everywhere. I grab the phone and dial the embassy duty officer. When I relate to him what is happening at the palace, he tells me the king is presently flying back from Paris to Rabat in his private plane.

The local radio station has been compromised and our embassy is getting its information via BBC short wave. When I turn on my own Grundig short wave radio I hear about the attempted military coup in the country I am living, from another country outside that country. It's the 1970s. No cell phones, no internet. Hail Britannia!

The Many Lives of a Cool King

While the palace is being bombed and strafed, four Royal Moroccan Air Force jets fire on the king's Boeing 727 as it heads for Rabat. They hit the fuselage but do not bring down the plane. An experienced pilot, King Hassan rushes to the cockpit and orders the pilot to give him the controls. Then, disguising his voice, Hassan transmits the following message: "Stop firing. The king has been killed and I am landing the plane." After landing the plane, the cool cat with nine lives jumps into his car and speeds away, leaving the surprised insurgents once more to be rounded up and arrested by officers loyal to the monarchy. Later, through my shattered windows and smashed flower pots, I watch the king race his little red sports car through the palace gates to safety.

Brief Encounter In A Sea of Tranquility

My footprints are somewhere in the three million square miles of the Sahara's unforgiving wilderness. Blazing hot, freezing cold, the desert is a riddle of invisible roads and unpredictable quicksand that swallowed African kingdoms and Roman Legions. About 375 miles from Rabat a scorched plain known as the sand seas, or erg, leads to Merzouga, a vast emptiness at the end of the world. The 21st century will bring some tourists. Today there's just me and three friends.

Once we reach the dunes, we're in a sand sea of tranquility, where spending a night or two in pure silence can put you in an altered state. Walking over the thousand foot dunes, I stray from my friends and I'm lost.

My cries for help are muffled by mountains of sand. In the shimmering white heat, everywhere looks the same as everywhere else. Someone once told me, "when you think you're heading east you could be heading west!"

In the stillness I can hear the steady thump of my heart. A sudden lusty wind whistles down the dunes, blows sand in my face and obscures the sun. I think, 'Oh my God, I'm going to be buried alive; they'll never find me. Don't think about water. Don't think about water.' From out of the shimmering haze, a lone figure is walking toward me. In desert lore, jinn spirits can take many forms. Moving in that undulating rocking gait they do when on the dunes, a young Berber boy beckons me to follow him. With his pet Monitor lizard trailing behind him on a string, the boy guides me back to my companions. He knows exactly where he is. It is his ancestral home. I have miles to go before I figure it out.

Visit my website http://www.susanscharfman.com - for an eclectic collection of memoirs and articles. My historical novel, The Sword & the Chrysanthemum, Journey of the Heart - is an unconventional love story and spiritual journey into 17th century Japan. Available on Kindle and Amazon.com. I'm presently at work on my second novel.
 
 
 
 

Nasib

Nasib Nasib Oliver Cadwell. Usia 25 tahun. Mengambil jurusan keuangan. 3 tahun pengalaman kerja. "Sempurna. Dialah yang kita butuhka...