Through Foreign Eyes

It was my first time to attend a Nepali Nite. I was only convinced by a Filipino friend to join and had it not been for a free ticket, I could have said NO.
Here are my impressions.

Cultural presentation. It was good - not the usual eye-popping performances, but generally, it was okay. The presentations seemed to have been copied from other cultural nites, like the Indian nite -- the act, the dancing, the singing. There wasn't something unique about it. I will give it a 7 out of 10.

Attendance. It was jam-packed. The auditorium was filled to the brim with people from different cultures. The hardwork of the Nepalis to get the tickets sold should be given a recognition. For this, I will give it a 10/10.

Knowledge-gained. Without the Powerpoint presentations, I might have fallen asleep. Nothing interesting by just listening to the presenters. The slides showing the different scenes of Nepal and the culture they had, made me stick to the program. I will give it 6/10.

Emcees. Totally boring. Lines were memorized. It would have been livelier when the hosting was done spontaneously. Lots of gaps between segments because of the emcees' slackness. The score for that is 2/10.

Food. I had high expectations of the Nepali food. However, the food has failed me. It looked like they didn't spend much time to make it savory. The dishes were spicy yet tasteless. Sorry, but that was exactly how my taste buds sensed them. Even the orange juice [which I think was free from the sponsor] didn't go so well. I will give the food a low 3/10.

Nepali people. I have made some Nepali friends. They are friendly and always ready for a smile. The smiles, one-of-a-kind culture plus the colorful national costumes make Nepal an attractive country. For friendliness, I will give it 10/10.

I think there are more to see and explore for this small treasure in Asia. Whether I will attend the next Nepali nite, is not a question anymore. I will still be there -- hoping to be be amazed by that Nepali girl gracefully dancing...what was her name again?

More photos here.

Labels: Brooking Fun

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Pearls are usually found inside oysters! Have you seen one already?

What if you are given the chance to choose the thing that you want to see inside the oyster shell, what would it be? Would you still prefer a pearl? I don't think so. Most likely you would go for a diamond or a million dollars. LOL.

Seriously, what would you choose?

Speaking of oysters, do you know that aside from the fact that oysters are one of the most nutritionally well balanced of foods, containing protein, carbohydrates and lipids, they can be a threat to healthy individuals too?

Consumption of raw or undercooked oysters by at-risk individuals may cause serious illness or even death from Vibrio vulnificus bacteria. If you have liver disease, diabetes or a weak immune system, you should avoid raw oysters. Thus, there is a need to warn oyster consumers about the potential hazard associated with eating raw oysters.

The BE OYSTER AWARE website is dedicated to educating the oyster consuming public. It provides a thorough background on Vibrio vulnificus and the health conditions that place an individual in the at-risk category.

So the next time you eat your savory Gulf oysters -- raw, steamed, fried, charbroiled, grilled -- just BE OYSTER AWARE!


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I still have yet to encounter a frat war here in SDSU. Not that I want to experience one, but seeing too much of it in the past makes me think fraternities and sororities here are very civil.

Back to my freshman year in the Philippines, I was recruited many times by countless fraternity groups, all wanting me to be part of their so-called elite circles of brotherhood. Brotherhood is the keyword to luring fresh faces in the campus.

Students on the Dean's list are recruited first - it's always a pride for any group to have the perfect tens with them. Once you say yes, you are in for a big ride. Prepare for the initiation rites - that includes beating you up with a paddle, yes that big, wide, heavy, wooden paddle only the local Filipino fishermen have. Each member of the group is given just one chance to strike you real hard on either of your thighs. Imagine the sore, or worse, the serious nerve injury you will get from a group of a hundred members! Blindfolded, all you can think of is to pray that you won't go home dead. Most quit along the process. Only the enduring few can survive the pain that is synonymous to a needle prick multiplied a million times. Location of the initiation rites: at the outskirts of the city, in the middle of the forest.

I know about this. My friend and roommate was a proud member of a big international frat. He came home one night in the dorm limping with crutches. That time, we were still in our early teens and seeing someone who shared a room with me nearly crippled due to reasons that I couldn't comprehend, made me question the real objectives of fraternities. For over a week, he was absent in class. From red to brown to blackish tints, his thighs were severely injured, like he suffered a 10th degree burn, if there is still such a term. I was the one bringing him food, buying painkillers and sometimes nursing his wounds. No one from his immediate family knew about his situation.

As a member, you are obliged to be faithful and true to the brotherhood pacts, even if it takes killing someone else.

The death of a university student two years ago stirred more than just buzz but rage in packed force around the engineering campus, most especially to the administrators.

Christian, a graduating civil engineering student, died because he was beaten to death by a gang of males after his evening class, just outside the gate of the university. Those who saw the details unfolding confirmed the use of a metallic pipe by the assailants in hitting parts of his body and most particularly his head. He suffered a fractured skull and his brain was severely affected that led to a coma and eventually death.

Like a contagious disease, the death of Christian spread fast from mouth to mouth to every department of the university and to the Father President. After a thorough investigation, it was found that one of the killers was Christian's former classmate while the others were students from other universities. All of them were members of a fraternity that had a conflict with Christian's group.

Christian died a foul and unreasonable death. This is now what everyone is shouting - JUSTICE for Christian and for all frat war victims! Some of the perpetrators are still at large up to now, and everyone is still hoping to bring the killers to justice. The family of Christian is praying that this sad part of their lives will see closure soon.

Fraternities must not turn to violence in times of disputes, especially in the country where I came from. There are good reasons why fraternities and sororities have survived the test of time. Not all Philippine fraternities are at war, though. Others exist in harmony with the common people - sharing their talents through community services.

Fraternity groups must not be a medium for someone to kill but to spread love and peace. That is what a true brotherhood must be about, isn't it? Continue Reading >>>

Europe is no doubt the best continent of all in terms of things you could do and amazing places you could see for short breaks or weekend breaks. Since I lived in the Netherlands before, I plan to visit the continent of historic sites again - that would be sometime sooner. I am wondering if there is any travel promotion that I could possibly enjoy and pay only less.

A friend suggested I should check out DialAFlight. It is one of the UK’s top travel companies offering cheap flights, hotels, car hire, city breaks holidays, and travel insurance to help travelers create the perfect all-inclusive trip to any worldwide destination.

I visited the site and was amazed at how low the deals could get. Very affordable indeed, even for students. I haven't been to Athens, Greece yet. It will be part of my itinerary for sure.

DialAFlight also has more than six million cheap discount flights to a wide range of destinations around the world. Whatever you need - the best economy or business class flight fares, DialAFlight has the best deal.

By the way, they also offer flights to Canada. Check it out!
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Since the February 14th campus shooting that left six people dead including the shooter, students at Northern Illinois University are now back in class for the first time. Hundreds of volunteer counselors are on campus to help the students through their return.


Hoping no other incident like this will happen in the future. Continue Reading >>>

Salt water is the best way to treat colds. This isn't just hearsay. According to a new study a saline nasal wash solution made from processed sea water may be best for treating children with a colds.

So the solution to colds is the plain old fashioned salt water! That is the reason why saline nasal solution is becoming popular. Even health authorities said that saline solutions appears to be effective for colds and with no side effects.

In another report, the American Academy of Paediatrics has said cough and cold products are ineffective for children under age 6, and may also be risky. They suggested salt water spray.

Oasis Nasal Spray is one effective saline solution. It is formulated with purified Dead Sea salt. The Dead Sea is the world's lowest and most saline lake. Its 30% salt composition has proportionately more calcium, magnesium, bromine, and potassium and less sodium, sulfate, and carbonate than any ocean.

Oasis Nasal Spray is the right treatment for allergies and sinus disorders. It also has anti-inflammatory effect.

Directions for Use
Usage of this product can vary patient to patient depending on the severity of symptoms and extent of the disease. To get the most out of the Oasis nasal spray and Oasis nasal wash here are some helpful hints. The Oasis nasal wash is typically used for more severe symptoms, to get quick relief of your nasal problem, and used as rescue once on maintenance Oasis nasal spray. It can be used as often as you like, however, it is suggested to use one to two times daily; more difficult cases may have to use it four times per day. One bottle of Oasis nasal wash will last two to five days depending on the usage.

Once symptoms are under good control, Oasis nasal spray can be used for maintenance of symptoms, control of allergy symptoms, or more mild to moderate problems. The usual dose is two to three sprays three times a day. One bottle of Oasis nasal spray will last one to two months depending on the usage.

An Oasis of Relief for Parents
As a parent, deciding on what medicine to give your children is one of the most fearful responsibilities you have. You hear bad reports on how addictive or how harmful some remedies are in newspapers and on the TV almost every week. It can become absolutely stressful when your child is sick and you then must make the hard decision on what to pick up at your local pharmacy.

This grave concern was not helped when the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made a recent recall for over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for children. They are now contemplating whether nasal sprays and nose drops are safe for children younger than 12. The FDA is worried that these easy to use congestion reducers have dangerous side effects such as addictive tendencies. But there is hope for parents out there. There is now a safe and effective solution you can buy.

Oasis Nasal Spray and Wash is proud to announce that it is not on the recall list and has a strict non addictive standing. Oasis has released Children's Oasis Nasal Spray and Wash. Oasis’ solution is all natural and produced entirely of purified Dead Sea Minerals. Many nasal sprays contain a saltwater base, which helps release congestion in the nose and is easily wiped away. Oasis nasal spray takes it another step by not simply being saltwater from any ocean mixed with other chemicals like the leading nasal spray, but is all natural and made from the most salty sea in the world.

Oasis Nasal Spray provides the healing powers of the Dead Sea in their products for problems faced everyday; nasal allergies, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, itchy nose, recurrent sinus infections, and chronic sinusitis. Oasis Nasal Spray was created by Scott Cordray; Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist. His company Master Solutions has helped to create Oasis Nasal Wash and Oasis Nasal Spray by utilizing the healing salts of the Dead Sea.

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This is a simple tutorial video of how to cite a book in a bibliography or reference section.

Description: This tutorial shows students how to cite the book.
Tags: Bibliographies, bibliography

Labels: PhD blog

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Cottonwood Coffee in Brookings, South Dakota is the place where I spend most of my weeknights at. The coffee shop is located at the main street, close to Wells Fargo bank and fronting the Post Office.

The schedule that I am usually in is from 6 to 9 PM. The evening staff might have probably noticed my every visit as I, most of the time, am the last one to leave the premises seconds before closing time.

Coffee mocha, medium size, priced at $3.00 (without tax) is the order that I always take. I don't even have to tell the staff, they know what I want the moment I enter the door. Oh, here's comes the little Filipino guy again!

Just tonight, I got a free cup of mocha. Not that I was given a free serving. I earned this free cup, of course! Like the promo in one coffee shop in Cebu, Philippines, Cottonwood gives regular customers a chance to earn a "store stamp" for every order made. Ten stamps would mean a free cup of coffee in whatever flavor you want. So I had my card fully stamped for being an avid mocha drinker!

This shop is best for studying. Students who feel sleepy inside their quarters can take a walk to this place and get their dose of caffeine and a free WiFi on the sidelines.

Here are the coffee prices in dollars (for small size orders of hot drinks):

Latte - 2.35
Cappucino - 2.75
Americano - 2.00
Brew - 1.50
Red-eye - 2.75
Spiced Chai - 2.75
Breve - 2.75

There are still other variety of coffees available. Come visit the place to taste them yourselves.

Opening hours: 7AM - 9PM Daily

Read my Review for Cottonwood Bistro.

Labels: Brookings South Dakota

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To tell you honestly, I do not know how to build a PC. Do you know? But I certainly would want to know how.
Building your own PC will save you hundreds of bucks. Instead of buying a whole pre-assembled computer from an expensive PC maker, why won't you try assembling your own PC yourself? It is called DIY - Do It Yourself PC.

Sounds interesting, doesn't it? The assembly is easy, especially if you can find the right guide or the detailed instructions on how to do it. There is also an advantage of doing it because you get to know the components your PC require to operate.

You might have already stumbled into easyasmypc.com. They have these 10 simple tips on how to assemble a PC kit.

1. Get the only tool you will need: 1 Philips Head Screwdriver
2. Set up a clean, flat workspace away from foods, liquids and pets
3. Seat the Processor and RAM in the motherboard, and mount processor cooling device
4. Open the case, and mount the mother board on the case chassis
5. Mount the power supply, and rout the power cables into the main compartment
6. Mount hard drive(s) and optical drive(s) onto drive rails, and slide into chassis
7. Insert cards into motherboard (e.g., graphics card(s), TV card, Modem)
8. Connect the drive cables, power cables and monitor(s)
9. Plug it in, boot it up, and set the CMOS settings
10. Load the operating system and close the case

If you don't find that easy, worry not. Easyasmypc.com provides detailed instructions, fully explained in text and photographs, so you can build a PC in no time and with fun! Continue Reading >>>

Everyone needs this - students and professionals alike. This is my second MS Excel tip for the day. Introducing the Excel keyboard shortcuts!

Shortcuts when navigating around Excel:

Switch between worksheets - CTRL-PageUp/CTRL-PageDown

Switch between workbooks - CTRL-Tab

Go to the end of a contiguous range - CTRL-Arrow keys

Highlight a contiguous range - SHIFT-CTRL-Arrow keys

Select entire worksheet - CTRL-A

Go To - F5

Change zoom sizing - Alt-V-Z

Hide the selected rows - CTRL+9

Unhide the selected rows - CTRL+SHIFT+(

Hide the selected columns - CTRL+0

Unhide the selected columns - CTRL+SHIFT+)

Highlight entire row - SHIFT+SPACEBAR

Highlight entire column - CTRL+SPACEBAR

Insert a comment - SHIFT+F2

Spell Check - F7

There will be more Excel Shortcuts soon. Continue Reading >>>

Whoever is in the health care business should visit HealthLeaders-InterStudy for an up-to-the-minute picture of the fast moving and broad healthcare industry. HealthLeaders-InterStudy analyzes health plans, specific geographic healthcare markets, and managed Medicare and Medicaid markets and produce databases and reports that give healthcare businesses ready access to the data and analysis.

It is the place to find tons of info on healthcare and financing in one place. It is the sure place for medicare enrollment too!

Are updates on the following industrial sectors what you need?
- pharmaceutical
- managed care
- hospitals
- medical equipment and products
- physician medical groups
- home health
- and more....

Then HealthLeaders-InterStudy is your health care business resource page. Continue Reading >>>

This is a tip for those using Microsoft excel all the time. There is a better way to copy and paste large blocks of data in Excel without the usual dragging from corner to corner just to highlight the data bulk.

Suppose you want to copy a horizontal block of data to several (say 2000) rows down.

First, select the blocks you need to copy - mouse-dragging should not be too difficult for this step. Next, click on a corner cell of the block to be copied to. The address of this cell should appear in the northwest corner of the spreadsheet (see image below).
Next, edit the value in that edit box to include the range.
After hitting enter, the large block of cells should be marked. Now, select [PASTE] from the [Edit] menu and the formulas should be pasted to all chosen cells.

That the Excel Tip for the day. Via.

Labels: PhD blog

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Keeping abreast of the new developments in ones field of expertise is a must for all professionals and experts.

For those in the pharmaceutical companies, since things are moving quite rapidly, they must know what discoveries are ongoing and has been done that are related to the their practice. They need to stay abreast of the diseases they actually treat.

Successful pharmaceutical companies are those that can develop drugs more quickly, more cheaply, and with lesser failures in treating current diseases. These can only be done through in-depth research on the trends and the emerging developments of the drug industry.

Decision Resources is one company that helps shape the pharmaceutical companies strategy and master their chosen markets. It provides in-depth research on the trends, emerging developments, and market potential in various healthcare industry sectors.

It is privately-owned and offers a rich array of research publications advisory services, and consulting that make it second to none for quality, analytical depth and insight.

It has access to almost 10,000 thought leaders, specialists, HMO formulary directors, and general practitioners. Its highly-credentialed analysts are able to reconcile real-world practice with hard numbers from the industry's most respected data sources.

If your company needs a pharmaceutical marketing research group visit decisionresources.com. Continue Reading >>>

There are only few local radio stations available in Brookings, South Dakota. If you are really into radio listening, you'd be bored with these radio channels.
1430 AM KBRK - It is for musical standards from the 1940s to 1970s.

B-93.7 FM - It is adult contemporary music from the 1970s, 80s and 90s.

X107.1 FM - Serving you with music from 70s, 80s and some new music.

K102.3 FM - Purely country music.

Brookings Radio 910 AM - Weather, rock and roll oldies.

KSDJ 90.7 FM - It's an SDSU-owned radio station offering native, rock, jazz and blues. It reports campus information too.

88.3 FM - South Dakota Public Broadcasting network.

There you go. Enjoy tuning in.

Labels: Brookings South Dakota

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My big brother was once a salesman. He used to work in a company that sells home utility products. Being a salesman, he gets to travel all over the Philippines to meet prospective customers.

He is good in winning the hearts of people, meaning, he has a good public relation. He can easily win a sale bu a mere minute of talking.

I am certain he would have been so much better with the right sales training and business education.

Advance Sales Training is a training that helps aspiring salesmen reach their full potentials - to master the skills that deliver and maximize profitable growth.

Whatever the challenge or need for improvement like generating more accurate sales forecasts, improving the quality of pipeline management, retaining, adding and growing customer accounts, improving account management effectiveness, eating compelling customer needs, achieving higher conversion rates, or many, many others, Advance Sales Training has the solution that will help people achieve the business impacts they seek.

Advance will move any business forward. It has developed a unique Sales Training Development approach that combines research, consulting, education and publishing, together with training, development, coaching and mentoring.

Click here to achieve sales excellence. Continue Reading >>>

My little brother who is taking his Masters degree in English with a major in Linguistics at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in the Philippines asked me to do some research on articles about the English proficiency of Philippine call center agents.

It was hard to find scientific articles as the subject isn't so much studied in Philippine academia. I did find few links from the South Dakota State University library and few other links from Google Scholar.

I am sharing the links to you.
Link 1

This is a a good source. Link.

This one is also very helpful. It is an e-book.

Better contracting services needed at call centers. Link.

Here is another one. Link.

Links to English Proficiency articles:
Link 1
Link 2
Link 3
Link 4
Link 5
Link 6
Link 7
Link 8
Link 9
Link 10

This is a study about Philippine English. Then below you can find other links pointing to articles related to it. Very good find, indeed! All articles can be read in full text (click full text PDF).

This is also very good-- a review of the English-Tagalog mixing.

Enjoy reading everyone.

Labels: Blogging

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Relationships must be preserved. They form the fine fabric of our lives and our world and it only makes sense to take some lessons to make them the best that they can be.

Think of Couples Counseling as an educational teaching of communication skills, conflict and anger management and relationship advice that works. Think of it as a center for individuals and couples who want to take their marriage or partnership to the next level of success.

I believe that by strengthening each of our relationship, together we can make a better world for everyone. It is like building a bridge between you and another person, between groups of people, between countries. Relationships bridge the gap.

The site www.eastbaycouples.com will make you feel what truly is the essence of a relationship. It helps couples to connect or reconnect. It teaches partners to honor, nurture, and keep that space between them for love to work.

Never think twice when your relationship needs help. Relationships are like skills, you need commitment to build and deepen them.

So for couples counseling, click here. Continue Reading >>>

The South Dakota State University unveiled its new Jackrabbit mascot.
I've seen it displayed at the Student Union. The mascot is on the Jackrabbit logo too. There were a variety of sizes of the logos displayed, a variety of the popular South Dakotan rabbit hopping!

News report:
The long process of gathering opinions and designs for a new Jackrabbit mascot ended this morning with the unveiling of the new Jack. The image’s sleek lines and intense look make a striking mascot that represents SDSU well.

One of the goals designer Craig Whitlock said that he and his brother Cory had for their winning jackrabbit image was to be true to its look – ears, feet, awarenss and speed – while incorporating the “pride, honor and determination” of SDSU’s 125-plus year history.

Whitlock and his brother create out of their firm, Mongoose Graphics, in Denver developing corporate school and organization designs. The South Dakota natives grew up in Spearfish.

A second design was selected when a shortened version of the mascot is needed. Tony Horning, a Minneapolis graphic designer with numerous family connections to SDSU, created a wordmark of the word Jack’s incorporating distinctive rabbit ears and tail.

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Selectblinds.com is a good site for window blinds. The company was built by professionals with over 75 combined years in the home services industry. With their experience, they have a satisfaction guarantee that exceeds almost every competitor in the industry.

Here's the most important part: they offer the lowest prices on window blinds and shades. They also have the latest fashions in virtually every style of window covering available, all for you.

If you need suggestions, they have sales and service staff who are ready and eager to help you pick the finest window treatments for your home. Check out their discount blinds.

Do you want to see my favorite blinds? This one - the Natural Wood Shades.
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For students and professionals alike, free science journals and databases are always good news. You have probably stumbled upon links to free scientific papers. But what about links to databases?

There are so many online, but I will only give you those I have found and thought useful.

ScienceResearch.com — A portal allowing searchable access to numerous scientific journals and databases.

WebCASPAR — A database of science and engineering statistical data resources.

USGS Real-Time Water Data — A map of the United States showing real-time streamflow and water quality data of the nation's rivers and reservoirs.

USGS Earthquake Hazards Program — Maps of California, Nevada, the United States, and the World, showing real-time earthquake data.

Science.gov — A searchable gateway to authoritative science information provided by US government agencies.

Ask.com Recent Earthquake Activity — An interactive map of the world, showing real-time earthquake data.

More links to come soon.

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How is your credit standing? Are you in need of credit repair? Are you one of those people who have had a bankruptcy, foreclosure, late payments, and even previous auto repossessions experience or with Bad Credit Loans?

With the number of "bad credit" consumers in the U.S. growing by the day, a lot of companies nationwide promise to clean up your credit record so you can get yourself the needed personal loan: a car loan, an insurance, a home mortgage, or even a job. Be careful. Most of these companies are only after for your fees and won't even improve your credit standing. In short, most of them are just scams that couldn't deliver you from financial debt.

But not Complete Loan Source. It is your one-stop place for loans of every type. It provides nationwide loan services to a wide range of individual needs and credit situations through the robust national lender network offering low competitive rates. It also has the perfect loan program offering the best rate and fastest approval of loans.

It is also a user's guide to bad credit. It is an excellent site that provides consumers with the knowledge and resources necessary to help them find the perfect credit offer to fit their needs, regardless of a less-than-perfect credit rating. And you have nothing to worry about. This company has years of experience in the credit industry, which put them above the rest.

Try completeloansource.com and rebuild your finances! Continue Reading >>>

Google Scholar is a freely-accessible Web search engine that indexes the full text of scholarly literature across an array of publishing formats and disciplines.

It provides a simple way to broadly search for scientific articles. One can search across many disciplines and sources like peer-reviewed articles, theses, books, abstracts and papers from academic publishers, professional societies, preprint repositories, universities and other scholarly organizations.

What I don't like about Google Scholar is that most of the scientific articles I find require registration and payment to access them. Aren't they suppose to be free for all?

Google Scholar only helps one identify the most relevant research across the world of scholarly research. And that's it. It will never make the papers available for download! Too bad, that would have been the most important part -- accessibility.

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In these times of energy crisis, all we need to have is an energy-efficient decorative lighting. HolidayLEDs.com could give you what you need.

Using HolidayLEDs.com lights, such as the colored rope light, could consume 80-90% less energy than standard incandescent alternatives. That is a great saving for you.

HolidayLEDs.com is always ready for your orders. It is the leading online retailer and information source for energy-efficient commercial and residential rope lights.

Where to use a rope light? It can be used for a number of applications including, building outlines, decks, stairways, patios, and recessed coved lighting. So they are not for holidays only.

The lights are nearly indestructible and will last for more than 50,000 hours of use. Pretty amazing huh!

The lights are pretty cheap too. Check it out - HolidayLEDs.com.
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SAS software has a procedure called "PROC PRINCOMP" for performing Principal Components Analysis. The eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the sample variance-covariance matrix can be computed. Eigenvalues are the variances of the principal components. Eigenvectors are the loadings of the principal components. The procedure can also create a new set of data that contains the values of the principal component scores. This new data can be used for later data analysis.

Here is an example of a SAS code to run a Principal Components Analysis.
*****

dm log 'clear';
dm output 'clear';
options nodate;

data PCA;
input X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 X6 X7 X8;
datalines;
6 7 2 5 8 7 8 8

9 10 5 8 10 9 9 10

7 8 3 6 9 8 9 7

5 6 8 5 6 5 9 2

6 8 8 8 4 4 9 5

7 7 7 6 8 7 10 5

9 9 8 8 8 8 8 8

9 9 9 8 9 9 8 8

9 9 7 8 8 8 8 5

4 7 10 2 10 10 7 10

4 7 10 0 10 8 3 9

4 7 10 4 10 10 7 8

6 9 8 10 5 4 9 4

8 9 8 9 6 3 8 2

4 8 8 7 5 4 10 2
6 9 5 7 8 9 8 9

8 7 7 7 9 5 8 6

6 8 8 4 8 8 6 4

6 7 8 4 7 8 5 4

4 8 7 8 8 9 10 5

;

PROC PRINCOMP DATA=PCA OUT=PCSCORES COVARIANCE;
VAR X1--X8;
title 'Principal Component Analysis';
RUN;


PROC FACTOR DATA=PCA scree;
VAR X1--X8;

TITLE2'Scree Plot of Eigenvalues';
RUN;

PROC PRINT DATA=PCSCORES;
VAR PRIN1 PRIN2 PRIN3;
TITLE2 'VALUES OF THE FIRST THREE PRINCIPAL COMPONENT SCORES';
RUN;


proc univariate data=pcscores plot;
var prin1 prin2;
TITLE2 'Univariate Analysis on the first two Principal Components';

run;

proc gplot DATA=PCSCORES;
plot prin2*prin1;
TITLE2 'A Scatter Plot of the First Two Principal Component Scores';

run;

quit;

*****
Acknowledgments goes to Weiming Ke, PhD (SDSU, Department of Mathematics and Statistics).

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A friend suggested a site for photo announcements. It is a site to announce a birthday, wedding or just about anything through a photo.

If you have a newborn baby, Doodlebugdezigns.com will capture the beauty of your baby with a breathtaking and timeless photo birth announcement that fits your unique style. It will customize your design in whatever you wish for, to create your perfect photo birth announcement. Everyone in your family and friends will be awed when they receive a beautiful, one-of-a-kind memoir that will be cherished for many years to come.

So get your unique and the best in modern photo birth announcements!
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The South Dakota State University (SDSU) Statesmen is a men's choir. Its director is Dr. Steven Grives. I've heard that the group is open by audition to all university students -- to any interested male singer on campus, regardless of major.

I really would want to join this all-male singing chorale. I think I would qualify if I would try an audition. Really. I just love the thought that I could further hone my singing talent by joining a group like this.

I am not in the picture yet. Wait, in a few months, I will be changing this photo.

Labels: South Dakota State University

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Hair loss can be seen as a natural occurrence. But significant hair loss can happen even at a young age, which is sometimes embarrassing for men.

If you suffer from hair loss and thinning hair, you may not be alone. But why be part of the statistics? Why suffer from this embarrassing situation when there is a scientific breakthrough for hair loss treatment that will stop hair loss, and even help regrow hair and reverse the hair loss process?

It is the state-of-the-art Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). It is a form of biostimulation which occurs when laser light is absorbed by tissue and leads to increased blood flow to the area. Increases in blood flow naturally lead to an increase in the flow of nutrients to the hair follicles. This in turn stimulates the rejuvenation of hair. LLLT has no negative side effects.

Benefits of LLLT:
* Rehabilitation of damaged and dormant hair follicles.
* Stoppage of excessive hair loss.
* Improvement of hair shaft quality.
* Thicker, shinier, and easier to manage hair.
* Relief from itchy scalp conditions such a psoriasis, seborrhoreic, and itchy scalp.
* Normalization of sebum production in cases of overactivity /scalp greasiness,
* Reduction of pore clogging and prevention of enlarged sebaceous gland formulation.
* Reduction of excess levels of skin 5-alpha reductase
and dihydrotestoterone (DHT). These hormones contribute to the
genetic thinning of hair.
* Relief from tight, tender scalp.
* Reversal of the negative effects of chemical perming.
* Salon chemical services are greatly enhanced and hair color will be more vivid, resist fading , and last longer.
* LLLT has also been shown to be an effective adjunct
therapy for pre-and post-hair transplant procedures.

LLLT is offered by the Aventi Laser Therapy. Visit aventihair.com for a successful therapy for hair loss for men. Continue Reading >>>

Oh, how could we possibly evolve like a tree, changing year to year and blooming anew? It is so difficult at times to go out in situations we have tied ourselves upon for so many years and to shape into something better. We call them attachments — extra things that need to be loosened and withdrawn. We have to accept that we will never grow in many aspects of life with worthless things we are bringing with us along.
We need to unfasten the old corroded screws and replace it with silvery beaming ones. We must try harder and work hardest to say NO when it is time to say NO. If we have to live with these attachments, we would be put someday in a situation we would regret for the rest of my lives.

We may have failed a lot than won in real-life battles we've been through, but each fall might be a win in some way, an added strength to make us endure and fight other battle where losing must not be an option. If we give up, we would never see ourselves fresh and glowing anew. We must believe that in every experience of spiritual brokenness in life, a purpose is also laid open. The purpose might be something we may not realize in the beginning when the clouds are dark still. It might take sometime when the sun is out and the clouds are clear to see that the purpose of letting go is not for disintegration but for seeing beyond self, towards real bounty, towards true happiness.

Just like the falling of the leaves: trees' sacrifice in order to see youthful covers and to shape new horizons again.

Labels: Blogging

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If you plan to invest into real estate, learn how to get started from the pro. Investorsloungeonline.com is a clearinghouse of real estate information! It is a networking community where people discover how to make and save money, increase cash flow, and how to skyrocket your success.

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Investorsloungeonline.com is the right place to get the best real estate investing information online. Get on board now and learn how to find motivated sellers, structure lucrative deals, and increase your gains exponentially. Read real estate investor articles to be inspired. Continue Reading >>>

Just few hours ago, I had the chance to watch for free the concert of the all-male vocal ensemble, CANTUS, a group from Minnesota. It was held at the Performing Arts Center in Brookings, South Dakota.
I am not really a fan of classical music, but when CANTUS started singing -- only one word I uttered right then and there -- WOW!

Amazingly wow! With all songs sang in a capella and with uniquely blend of voices, it will pull you towards loving the classics.

Their repertoire spans many periods and genres, including Gregorian chant, Renaissance motets, contemporary sacred works, art songs, world music, spirituals, and pop. Cantus’ singing has been called “spontaneous grace” by the Washington Post and “wonderful” by the L.A. Times.

For the past years, CANTUS has gained the recognition as one of America's finest professional male vocal ensembles. The group have included performances throughout the U.S. and it made its European debut at France's Polyfolia Festival.

CANTUS has already recorded 8 CDs on its own label, Cantus Recordings.

CANTUS members:

Tenors: Eric Hopkins, Aaron Humble, Micheal Jones, Gary Ruschman, Shazore Shah

Baritones: Dashon Burton, Adam Reinwald

Basses: Tom McNichols, Tim Takach

Labels: Brooking Fun

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For domestic and international long distance calling cards and prepaid phone cards, visit pinshark.com. This is one phone card site that gives you unlimited call minutes. Like calling these phonecards for Europe:

-rate to Denmark -unlimited
-rate to France -unlimited
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And look at these card rates for Asia [too bad call to the Philippines is not unlimited]:

-rate to Bangladesh - unlimited
-rate to India - $0.0278 / minute
-rate to Nepal - $0.0625 / minute
-rate to Pakistan - unlimited
-rate to Sri Lanka - $0.0446 / minute

The rates indeed will save you enormous money on long distance bill. Buy your calling cards from the best online phone card store.
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This is the garden or park I usually pass through whenever I go to WalMart by foot. It is the shortcut to my grocery-shopping trip. This place in Brookings, South Dakota is awful during winter when everything in the garden is indistinguishable. But wait when summer comes. The garden is transformed into a little paradise of colors.
McCrory Gardens feature a 20 acres of formal display gardens and 45 acres of arboretum. There are 14 formal theme gardens and a rose garden with more than 30 varieties, a herb garden, a children's maze, a historic gas station renovated as a garden cottage and a memorial to the late Governor George S. Mickelson. Benches scattered throughout the grounds provide resting place with unbeatable blooming views.


Here is a little fact:
In 1985, faced with major fund cuts, a fundraising drive – supported by alumni, the local community, state and local businesses, and horticultural enterprises and associations throughout South Dakota – began to keep the Gardens open and growing. An endowment, managed by the SDSU Foundation, was established in 1986. Since that time, all maintenance and development at McCrory Gardens has been supported by public donations of money, equipment, labor, seed, plants, and other supplies. The “Friends of McCrory Gardens” are a continuing source of enthusiastic support.

South Dakota State University's McCrory Gardens are open 24 hours and all visitors are welcome and admission is free.

McCrory Gardens location:
McCrory Gardens is located on the corner of 6th Street and 22nd Avenue in Brookings, SD (a few blocks west of I29).

Visit some sights.

Labels: Brookings South Dakota

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If every second left means saving your life or someone else' life, then why waste the time? Get that emergency flight as soon as you can.

Save a life. Contact the expert of transporting patients on air. Air ambulance service is one of a kind, with Flight nurses and Flight Paramedics onboard an air ambulance with state of the art medical equipment. Medical Equipment include:

* Complete supply of respiratory equipment: Oxygen, Facial masks, Nasal Cannulas, Tracheotomy Mask, Esophageal Obturators, Respirator, Ambu-Bag.
* Heart Monitor/Defibrillator
* Suction
* Emergency Drug Kit
* IV Solutions and Infusion Sets
* Infusion Pump
* Any Special Equipment the Patient Needs.

It might be a little crazy to know that there is an ambulance on air. But there is indeed. In an Air Ambulance flight, on board are registered nurses, respiratory therapists and registered flight paramedics.

There is nothing to worry about experience. They have been giving quality care since 1984. There clients include social workers, senators, governors and the United States Marshall Service.

They also have good price offers for clients. They are sometimes able to save their clients up to 40% off the cost of the private air ambulance service, while still providing expert medical attention with a flight nurse on board a commercial flight.

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Great Clips Hair Salon is one of the very few hair shops in Brookings, South Dakota. It is also one of the most visited by residents among the few. It is because it is very accessible and there are quite a number of hair stylists/dressers/cutters that could immediately attend to your hair needs as soon as you enter the door.

If you are in need of haircut, I would advise you not to go to Smart Style hair salon in Walmart. Aside from the fact that in most times they only have one hair cutter, the service is not that impressive too. One time, the lady pruned my hair like it was her backyard lawn - quick and messy. I went home very unsatisfied. I wasted $13 dollars for a service likened to a child's play!

There is another hair shop located at the downtown center. I haven't been there yet, but for now I would recommend Great Clips Hair Salon.

Great Clips
Address: 1831 6th St, Brookings, SD 57006
Telephone number: 605-692-2289

Labels: Brookings South Dakota

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At first sight, I fell in love with this bed [see image below]. Maybe I should start planning for my future bedroom. I checked out a Furniture site and thought I could get a good price for that Black Wood Elegant Bedroom Furniture Set.

Ornate bombe shaping dressed in an opulent black finish with gold colored accents. “Swag” motifs accent the tops of every case. Shaped and reeded feet and decorated base moldings. The dresser offers six spacious drawers. An ornately decorated mirror is shaped and beveled. All the bombe shaping and ornamental elements are captured in the sculptural panel bed. The king bed is adjustable to accommodate Cal King set up. Antique brass colored hardware adds simple elegance to the cases.

What about this sofa? Adorable, isn't it? The arm rests are also wide enough to keep arms relax in style.

With this gorgeous piece of furniture, it is guaranteed to bring luxury into your home and a wonderful dramatic effect in addition to that. Indeed, an excellent value for the money!

If you visit Furniture From Home, you will see a variety of this reclining home theater furniture in different colors to blend your room and to fit your style.

Visit one of the biggest furniture retailers in the country and start planning your home now! Wanting a good furniture for bedroom design? What about Upholstered platform bed? Everything is in Furniture From Home.
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Love must withstand the strongest of winds. Whatever it takes, hold on to it.
Let me detail the story of my Dutch friend Jacque; hers is a poster family for divorce. She was five when her mom discovered that her dad was having an affair with another woman. The discovery sparked series of unhealthy events between her parents, which eventually ended up in a divorce. For a while, Jacque and her younger sister bounced around between their parents before their grandparents had the custodial responsibilities. The custody issue confused her as much as the reason why her mom did not even attempt to acquire the rights to keep them both. Her mom frequented the night bars and so did her dad.

In her heart, she carried hatred for everything-for her hardhearted parents and for a life wretched and unfulfilled. She lived in fear of being sent away, as most defenseless days of her existence, her grandparents threatened of sending her to either her mom or dad if she not would oblige on things they wanted her to do.

Her sister ended up in a group of criminally inclined friends, who, at one point, stole a large amount of money from a store. She was into drugs and other illegal maneuvers. Later, she was brought to a psychiatrist, and the reason of her strayed life was blamed to a broken family.

I am certain that by now Jacque is already done with her college degree. She told me she had no plans of inviting her parents to her graduation day. Nor did she want to see them. She hated her childhood and teenage life as much as she hated her parents, who she judged as irresponsible and thoughtless.

This is but a tragic story of a broken family. The story of life in anguish. From a child so sweet, Jacque grew up into someone very hard to smile, as I noticed. Moreover, she doubted everything.

Who can blame her to question the context and sanctity of marriage for years of not being able to feel it from her own family? Who will care to convince her that marriage is not just a piece of paper, eagerly signed by two human beings before God and men, and yet to be windswept at a slightest pinch? Who is she to render love to the uncertainty of the sacrament-ending up living separate lives again? These were exactly the sentiments of Jacque who had experienced what it was like to live in a family ripped apart. For her, who had been so close to giving up, marriage was a waste of time!

However, we know it is not. Marriage is not like changing clothes, that once we don't like it anymore, we can just toss it to a corner and look for something dazzling and new. It is an exceptional gift from God and a pledge for life. When couples promise to live together till death, it is also a rejection of their own selves, conquering their self-longings and accepting one another completely. Marriage is not changing a person but becoming accustomed to whatever he/she is and will be. It is learning to blend. It is surviving the unexpected insurmountable and getting it done till the end.

What if marriage will not really work for good? Then why enter marriage in the first place if we can't put up with its aftereffects? The decision of marrying the one you love serves as a warning for all the consequences you could possibly think of once you are into it. Getting hooked up to, someone for eternity is giving your whole trust and somehow believing you would get the same trust in return.

We are weak; human as we are. But if both parties will work hand-in-hand and with God's guidance, with plenty of prayers and with selflessness, marriage will work. Marriage will prosper!

We don't need to hear another story like Jacque's in this world where marriage is sometimes, if not oftentimes, reduced to trial and error. Is the scene of a child in anger and in pain a sight to behold? Many parents may not agree with me, but divorce must not be a medicine to cure. In my opinion, it is not a solution to healing emotional wounds. However, if you are a divorcee parent reading this and managed to raise your children to a normal, happy life, my congratulations to you.

I am still into the definition of a family - a mother, a father and a child under one roof. I am still into getting the right plans and working it right, believing things will work at the right place and in God's divine hands. I do not want a situation where anybody can just remarry anyone at any time. It defeats marriage vows. Marriage for me is sacred and to go on with the relationship through thick and thin has its divine rewards.

Finally, love is a stunning thing to pledge ourselves to, though painful at times. But it is where we grow and mature in all things. Love should be the cure to heal and to motivate us again. Happy heart's day everyone!

Visit the Collegian.

Labels: Collegian Newspaper

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You haven't bought your phone card, have you? I used to shop for phone cards from one online shop almost every week, but when I found out about getmecallingcards.com, I changed loyalty.

I buy phone cards whenever I call the Philippines. One thing I hate about phone cards is the connection fee. They charge a certain amount each time I use the card to call to Cebu. It is usually disheartening to know that when it is time for you to call, the operator will say "you don't have enough credits for this call", because the remaining amount was charged for connection fee.

However, getmecallingcards.com is different from the rest.

I am partly a student studying in United States, and getmecallingcards.com provide a low rate 3% cash back prepaid calling cards, with great discounts and lowest rates currently available in the phone card industry. No need to worry about expensive international rates whenever I call home.

Per charge for Philippine calling cards is cheap. It is only 5.4 cents a minute. For a $5 card, talk time is 85 minutes while for the $10 card, talk time is 170 minutes. No connection fee, by the way!
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Two more days. But why wait for Valentine's day. Start the romantic day by sending cute, lovable, valentine sms/text messages to your honeypie/sweety/darling/babe/baby. It might be a little corny for some. But what the heck. Valentine's day happens only once a year. It isn't that bad to do corny stuff once in a while.

So ready your phones and send text messages.

Here is a collection of Valentine's Day Sweet Love Messages and Valentine's Day text messages you could send or say to your loved one.

* Hi sweetie pie, I love you so much that I can't even express it properly. I love you
* Oh that I could shrink the surface of the world, so that suddenly I might find you standing at my side.. I love you!
* You are my special friend I love u from the core of my heart, I'll always keep you near.
* I love u from the bottom of my heart. Be mine forever.
* My soul is shattered without your arms to hold me, Like a mirror without a reflection.
* I am so happy we met! Will you be my Valentine's Love
* We've been through a few hard times honey..well..I just want to let all the people to know that you are my only one..I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH.
* My darling, you bring joy to my life. Love,
* You mean the world to me! Please be my Valentine (always)! Love always
* Your smile is my sunrise, your kiss is my sunset. Thank you for being the most wonderful friend and companion
* You are my angel sent from Heaven above. Happy valentines day
* You have opened the doors of my heart. Now it's for you to walk through it.
* You remain my world, happiness and joy. Always be my valentine.
* Thanks for your patience, your loving words, your kindness, your friendship. Love you loads and will always do. Be my valentine.
* You have always been the pillar of my life. Love you.
* You are the only one person I want to be with for the rest of my life and grow old with. I love you.
* Even though we are not together this Valentines Day but I'll be with you wherever you go. Love you always.
* You are the love of my life and I'll be yours forever.
* If I were to buy you a bunch of roses, I would place a plastic one in the middle, then say "My love will be the last one to die".
* You brighten my day with the sound of your voice, you bring so much laughter and love, you are everything to me and I was so blessed when god sent you here for me.

Valentine Text Messages

* Trip over love, you can get up. Fall in love and you fall forever.
* Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind
* The lover is a monotheist who knows that other people worship different gods but cannot himself imagine that there could be other Gods.
* We are all a little weird and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.
* Love helps us to communicate with God
* Sometimes we make love with our eyes.
* Love is like a butterfly. It goes where it pleases and it pleases where it goes.
* Love is like a fire. Whether it is going to warm your hearth or burn your house down, you'll never know.
* Draw a circle, not a heart, around the one you love because a heart can break but a circle goes on forever.
* To the world you might be one person, but to one person you might be the world. Continue Reading >>>

Diabetes is a world-wide problem. In the United States alone, it is widely recognized as one of the leading causes of death and disability. There are estimated about 246 million people with diabetes world wide, most of these people don't have health insurance. Too bad -- because diabetes is a serious, lifelong condition.

For people with diabetes and no health insurance, try American Diabetes Wholesale. They can provide you assistance for all diabetes supply you need, like the OneTouch Ultra Strips.

Diabetes is associated with long-term complications that affect almost every part of the body. The disease often leads to blindness, heart and blood vessel disease, stroke, kidney failure, amputations, and nerve damage. Uncontrolled diabetes can complicate pregnancy, and birth defects are more common in babies born to women with diabetes.

In recent years, advances in diabetes research have led to better ways of managing diabetes and treating its complications. Major advances include but not limited to:

* development of quick-acting, long-acting, and inhaled insulins

* better ways to monitor blood glucose and for people with diabetes to check their own blood glucose levels

* development of external insulin pumps that deliver insulin, replacing daily injections

* laser treatment for diabetic eye disease, reducing the risk of blindness

* successful kidney and pancreas transplantation in people whose kidneys fail because of diabetes

* better ways of managing diabetes in pregnant women, improving their chances of a successful outcome

So if you have diabetes, visit www.americandiabeteswholesale.com and avail of their discounts. Continue Reading >>>

Last Saturday, it was snowing in Black Hills, South Dakota. The day before that, my friends and I thought the temperature will be above zero degrees Fahrenheit. We were wrong. Just an hour before we will reach our destination, the snow began to fall so heavily.

We were all worried. From Brookings, we drove 5 hours to the Black Hills region just to see Mount Rushmore, the monumental granite sculptures of the heads of former United States presidents: George Washington (1732-1799), Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919), and Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865). Why only them? Americans considered the four to be amongst the greatest of Presidents they ever had.

As I've mentioned, we were all worried about the weather condition bothering our view of the mountain. With the snow falling like crazy, expect the view to be hazy or worse, the mountain to temporarily vanish from sight. We sacrificed our work for that day just to see the 4 faces we only read about in books when we were still in the Philippines.

Thank God, when we reached the top, the snowfall started to subside.

My first impression upon seeing the Mt. Rushmore is this: it isn't as huge as I expected. Maybe because we were far away from the mountaintop. We only stayed at the area where tourists are allowed. Nevertheless, whoever carved the faces did a very good job. Imagine carving the faces 5,725 feet or 1,745 m above sea level!

I had a very good time. Finally, I've seen the memorial that attracts approximately two million people annually in South Dakota.

Thanks to my Filipino friends - Cel, Ping, Janet and Minae - who made every second of our trip memorable.

See all Mt. Rushmore photos here.

Labels: Tourist Attraction

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I am planning to put window blinds on my room window back home. I want the BALI Neat Pleat Pleated Shade from blindcentralonline.com. See the picture below.

The features of the Bali Neat Pleat shades is just right for my room. I hate it when the blinds start to sag, this Bali Neat Pleat has a feature that will prevent the shade from sagging. There is no need to raise the shade periodically to retain pleats.

I also browsed for other types of blinds. There are Aluminum Blinds, Cell Shades, Composite Blinds, Faux Wood Blinds, Horizontal Sheers, Pleated Shades, PVC Horizontal Blinds, Roller Shades, Roman Shades, Skylight Cell Shades, Sliding Panels, Vertical Blinds, Vertical Cell Shades, Wood Blinds, and Woven Woods.

The Roman Shades are also very classy. It blends to today's popular decorating styles, colors and textures.

Without doubt, blindcentralonline.com is a good site for window blinds. The company began in 1986 as a full-service, shop-at-home retailer, offering every imaginable window treatment to the consumer. Several years later, they opened their first window treatment showroom displaying hundreds of blinds, shades, verticals and so much more. In 2003, they began the next phase of their business, offering the same selections and great values to their virtual showroom customers.

Here's the most important part: they offer the lowest prices on custom window blinds and shades.

If you need suggestions, they have sales and service staff who are ready and eager to help you pick the finest window treatments for your home. Check out their discount blinds. Continue Reading >>>

I have a friend who once had an American girlfriend. He met the girl inside a bar somewhere in town. The girl is kinda decent with how the way she moves, talks and behaves with people. She is also a degree holder, a once student writer and not to mention smart.

The relationship lasted only for two weeks. I was surprised to know how quick it was for my friend to end an affair [yes, he ended it], which looked very promising in the beginning.

I was inquisitive, although it was none of my business.

He told me these:

1. American girls must not be taken seriously in a relationship.
2. American girls will only play with you and you must play along with them.
3. They are not the type of girls who would commit seriously to a BF-GF relationship.
4. They easily get bored and will leave you anytime. If you are not prepared, you will find yourself alone and probably, wailing in a corner.

Is my friend right? Should American girls not be taken seriously in a relationship?

Labels: Blogging

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Skin research breakthrough!

Who doesn't want to have wrinkles? I could sense most of you raising your hand. Ethocyn, the skin-rejuvenating molecule, is the solution for aging.

Ethocyn is a unique, patented molecule that is scientifically proven to be essential in the fight against and treatment of skin aging. Ethocyn combats Intrinsic, or chronological, aging. As we age, our skin unavoidably looses the elasticity and firmness it once possessed in younger years. Ethocyn treats and reverses this Intrinsic Aging by increasing skin's ability to produce elastin fibers.

Ethocyn is now in beauty products. Thanks to Chantal Burnison, the creator of the groundbreaking Ethocyn beauty line. Chantal Ethocyn brought major waves to the cosmetic industry when it was first introduced in the 1980s. The revolutionary product continues to stay ahead of the times by helping men and women turn back time and restore the youthful look of their skin.

Ethocyn’s efficacy has been proven in over 19 years of research and over $20 million in testing and development. Physicians are agreeing to the results of the product. Try it yourself. Continue Reading >>>

This "talksmart sings" series is getting exciting each day. I have already posted quite a few songs [see sidebar]. And I want to have more, however, you can be part of that by requesting a song. If I know the song and am able to reach the pitch [LOL, hope no Mariah Carey types], I will sing and dedicate the song to you. What about that?

Here is one requested by Honey. The song is Beautiful In My Eyes popularized by Joshua Kadison.



Beautiful In My Eyes lyrics

You're my peace of mind in this crazy world.
You're everything I've tried to find, your love is a pearl.
You're my Mona Lisa, you're my rainbow skies,
and my only prayer is that you realize
you'll always be beautiful in my eyes.

The world will turn and the seasons will change,
and all the lessons we will learn will be beautiful and strange.
We'll have our field of tears, our share of sighs.
And my only prayer is that you realize
you'll always be beautiful in my eyes.

You will always be beautiful in my eyes.
And the passing years will show
that you will always grow ever more beautiful in my eyes.

When there are lines upon my face from a lifetime of smiles,
and when the time comes to embrace for one long last while,
we can laugh about how time really flies.
We won't say goodbye 'cause true love never dies.
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes.

You will always be beautiful in my eyes.
And the passing years will show
that you will always grow ever more beautiful in my eyes.
The passing years will show that you will always grow
ever more beautiful in my eyes.

Labels: Singing

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If there is one city that I will recommend for everyone to visit, be it for mere fun or romantic getaways, it must be Boston Massachusetts.

What is there in Boston that makes me smile all the time in excitement? The answer; everything - so many things to do in Boston. Boston is a very historic city, also being the cultural center of the entire New England region.

I love the city the first time I saw it. Very romantic, the city was the site of many U.S. firsts, such as America's first public school, Boston Latin School (1635), and first college, Harvard College (1636), in neighboring Cambridge. Boston was also home to the first subway system in the United States.

If you want to visit Boston, here are some places you need to visit: Museum of Fine Arts, Plymouth Historic Cemetery, Salem Witch Museum, Plymouth Twilight Ghost, Boston Lighthouse, New England Aquarium and IMAX, and so much more.

On your trip or family vacation ideas, contact Trusted Tours & Attractions - just to be certain your vacation time is spent wisely by visiting only the best tours, attractions and museums that our Boston has to offer!

Trusted Tours & Attractions has a special promotion now. Whoever wins will receive a a digital camera. Just sign up for their newsletter to join the promo. Signing up is free.


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Why is it that each time I write something about my being a Christian or about the religious faith, readers become suddenly wild.

The last article I wrote before Christmas break generated so many comments from the not-so-religious readers and from those who defend the Christian faith. Why does it have to be like this?

Read the article here. Then read the comments below:

John D.
posted 12/12/07 @ 7:07 PM CST
Praise be to God. May your Christmas be blessed.

saturnalicius
posted 12/13/07 @ 12:14 PM CST
The year and birth date of Jesus are unknown - political fabrications at best.
So, what is there left for you to "contemplate" ...how politics created this religion?

What's all this fuss about prayer? Statistically, prayer is no more effective than a good hug or a cold beer. You can believe what you want to believe, but believing in something does not make it it real, nor does it make it true. Take god for example.

Blorch
posted 12/13/07 @ 5:45 PM CST
Or you could just shut your pie hole. Instead, you post to crap on the writer's story. Congrats, you're an a-hole!

saturnalicius
posted 12/13/07 @ 6:38 PM CST
Seasons greetings yourself, Blorch
How clever you are to refer to mouth/anus in the same message. Call be sane if you must, but I'd rather be factual than delusional

devillydevilly
posted 12/15/07 @ 2:27 AM CST
You are now listed...welcome to the kingdom!
Count the days left before I'd see you. Excited?

venusalicius
posted 1/03/08 @ 3:06 PM CST
May faith be upon saturnalicius this 2008. Amen!

tagalowac
posted 1/03/08 @ 3:52 PM CST
there's really no point of making argumentative statements. it's the writers belief, so what the hell do you care.. just give a litle bit of respect and instead just spare him your two cents in his competence of producing good literary works, per se. Happy new year to you eric! write more. i'm at your back!

bisdak
posted 1/15/08 @ 3:16 PM CST
Those who do not see this as an inspiring article --- shut up!

Saturnalicius
posted 1/19/08 @ 1:24 PM CST
Dear Bisdak,
Thank you for your enlightened comment and for showing us the true face of religion. Instead of understanding, acceptance, and forgiveness... you give us a "Shut Up". Its the same old predictable story... only those "of the faith" have a right to speak, and all others must shut up.

tsk tsk tsk, what would jesus say about this bigotry and arrogance?

Reformed Christian Missionary message to Blisdak and Blorch
posted 1/20/08 @ 3:25 PM CST
Blisdak and Blorch, I used to be just like you. Then I took 1st Cor 13:11 to heart... "When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child, but when I became a man, I put away childish things..."

Lets do what...
posted 1/20/08 @ 3:30 PM CST
Luke 19:27 has an interesting suggestion that provides guidance for what to do with the likes of Saturnalicus
If he wants to be our enemy, so be it...
Its Go Time for Saturnalicus...

Blorch
posted 1/20/08 @ 5:51 AM CST
And thank you for showing us the true face of "sanity." Instead of just leaving well enough alone, you just HAD to come crap on the author's positive article. Congrats, you're an a-hole!

Saturnalicius
posted 1/20/08 @ 9:52 AM CST
Dear Sweet Blorch,
Is that puerile answer the best response you have: profanity and name calling?
Is your faith so frail that you must exhibit a knee-jerk reaction to criticism of what you see as positive and others see as guilt-mongering?

What next Skeeter? Spit-wads? or are you going to damn me to hell?

Blorch
posted 1/20/08 @ 2:55 PM CST
The fact remains that you offer nothing. If this were an article on "free thinking" and someone posted a Christian viewpoint you and your ilk would be jumping all over it. Again, the author posted a positive, uplifting message and you come crap on it. You could have simply ignored it. You didn't, which says everything about your character anyone would ever need to know.

Typical
posted 1/20/08 @ 3:10 PM CST
Somebody with open-minded skepticism asks critical questions, questions that need to be raised in a secular nation and the christian-taliban have nothing more intelligent to say than SHUT UP, CRITIC!
Welcome to Iran? Free thinking on religion must be banned! Let's ammend the constitution to formalize! We need an 11th Commandment!

Oh Blorch...
posted 1/20/08 @ 10:39 PM CST
Blorch, you offer what? A closed and small mind? As Confuscius said, "The worst form of poverty is not to live in a small house but in a small mind." Blorch, you are destitute

Hey Blorch
posted 1/22/08 @ 10:20 PM CST
Wassup Blorch? No more witty comebacks?
Can't take honest criticism?

Saturnalicius
posted 1/20/08 @ 3:16 PM CST
Blorch,
Again, crude comments regarding your 'character'/apparent obsession with the anus and fecal matter? TMI, get some help.

You are welcome to remain a fec-o-phile in the land of make-believe and to remain a staunch defender of 'uplifting messages' and praying to Mr. Make-believe. In the meantime, I can be found at the library trying to wrestle with reality.

Bravo Saturn
posted 1/20/08 @ 3:42 PM CST
Saturn,
Thank you for not stooping to the level of Blorch. He is probably one of the twits who sits on the back row of Ro D and draws crude pictures of pee pees to make his friends giggle. Five years from now he will be still blaming his professors for being so unfair to him that he couldn't graduate as he works at the meat packing plant.
Another home grown genius no doubt...

Clitospyroxene
posted 1/30/08 @ 10:08 PM CST
Stop all these nonsense arguments all you nefarious psychopathic Mephistopheles!

Grow up. Be adults. All of you!!!!

From Blorch's House Parents...
posted 2/04/08 @ 3:30 PM CST
Hello, we are the houseparents of the group home where "Blorch" has been living for the past 19 months. We cannot go into any more detail without violating confidentiality. We apologize to those who were offended by his childish antics. He is now under closer supervision and we will not let him act out on this or any other websites.
Thank you for understanding and again, we offer a belated apology for the acting out by "Blorch."

Venus
posted 2/07/08 @ 1:53 AM CST
There seems to be a commotion happening in here that i am not aware of. Blorch and Saturnalicius you both are creators of issues. You created a big bang for this article which would have been only a simple religious overview.

Saturnalicius
posted 2/08/08 @ 9:08 AM CST
Dearest Venus.

The only commotion+issue here is that Salas offered prayer (a muslim prayer would not have been permitted on these 'white pages').

The great hypocrisy of prayer and religion in general is that 'thanks' are cheerfully and optimistically being given for 'good things', but never for bad things, which are dealt out with equal frequency and facility by Mr. Make-believe. Why not thank the big guy for diarrhea and zits and a misshapen nose - Why is it that sports heros only thank the big-guy when they win, and not when they loose?

Why pray at all and give thanks for only that which is good. It's hypocritical.

No one is out there listening.
****

New comments are still coming. I do not know when this will end.

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