by: Dale Parkins
When it comes to relating to the opposite sex, not everyone is born with confidence or conversational adeptness. Fortunately, with practice and the following few tried and tested tricks anyone can develop these skills.
Work out what you want
Have in mind the goal of your conversation before it starts. Do you want to let him know that you’re interested in him? Do you just want to catch up and have a laugh? Identify the goal and set a strategy for how you’ll achieve it. One good way to break the ice with a guy (if you’re confident enough) is to be totally honest with him and tell him what your agenda is. For example, if you’re talking to a guy who you have a crush on and you really want to discover whether he’s single, you could say something like, “When I walked over here, I promised myself I wouldn’t leave until I found out if you had a girlfriend or not!” Or if you’re on a date with a guy you’ve just started seeing and your goal is to be less shy, say something along the lines of, “I was thinking that I’ve been pretty quiet on our other dates. Today I decided I want to let you know what I’m like.” Setting a strategy helps to keep a potentially unnerving situation in perspective.
Be your fabulous self
Be the individual you are, not a clone of him. There is nothing more annoying for a boy than when a girl goes along with everything he says. Don't be afraid to express likes and dislikes or to share opinions. For example, if a boy asks what you'd like to eat or what movie you'd like to see, do not automatically respond, "I don't mind" or "Whatever you want". Accept his questions as genuine interest in you and give him an honest response. If you really don't have any preference then it is okay to say so. Your tastes and views do not have to be the same as the guy you're talking to. You don't have to listen to the same music, or support the same football team, or agree with his political or religious beliefs. It is okay to disagree with his opinions as long as you are respectful. Standing up for what you belief in commands respect and it also gives him the chance to get to know the real you and what you are passionate about.
Take risks
No one, no matter how pretty, intelligent or funny, gets the response they want from others ALL of the time. Most of us have some experience of rejection, but that is what helps us hone our tuning skills! Take comfort from this and don't be disheartened if a boy you like doesn't reciprocate your interest. The saying "One person's trash is another person's treasure" rings true here. Another saying, "You've got to be in it to win it", is also true. You don't want to be left wondering what might have happened if you'd had the courage to go and talk to him, so take a chance and put yourself on the line!
Getting what you want
Once you've got your boy's attention there are a few tried and tested tricks for keeping it. The most important thing is to show a genuine interest in him. Smile at him, maintain eye contact, maybe touch his arm to emphasise a point. People love talking about themselves so try asking him questions. Keep it simple, like, what music do you listen to? What's it like living at your place? How do you get on with your family? What's the best holiday you've ever been on? What do you like to do on weekends? If you are feeling self-conscious, an added benefit of getting a boy to talk about himself is that it takes the spotlight off you. Once he starts confiding you'll feel more relaxed and be able to talk about yourself too.
Watch and learn
Observe others and then develop your own style. Pay attention to the girls who are more confident and flirty. Watch these girls in action and take note of exactly what they say, do, and even what mannerisms they use. Not everyone is born with conversational adeptness but anyone can develop it. Mix what works with your own style.
Positive visualisation
Before you approach a boy give yourself a pep talk. The thoughts we have influence our mood and our behaviour so concentrate on happy vibes. Dismiss any negative thoughts and substitute them with positive thoughts. If you anticipate that someone is going to laugh in your face or find what you are saying boring, you are likely to feel sad, anxious and defeated. If you remember all the compliments you have been given or a time when you had a friend in stitches laughing, you are likely to feel happy, calm and confident. Visualise success and it is more likely to occur.
Sabtu, 21 Juni 2008
Making Toothpaste: A Fun Activity for Kids
by: C. M. Clifton
Are you looking for a fun activity that might be educational, too? Looking for a fun way to get kids to brush their teeth? Are you looking for just a fun activity? If you answered yes to any of those questions, then you might want to try your hand at making toothpaste.
Materials Needed:
bowls
baking soda
salt
water
food flavoring extract
spoons
sandwich bags
Place baking soda, salt, and water in separate bowls. Assist the children in placing 4 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of water in individual sandwich bags. Add a drop of food flavoring extract, such as peppermint, mint, or orange. Let the children mix their own toothpaste in the sandwich bags.
This activity is appropriate for children aged 6 and up. Always be sure to provide adult supervision. Whether you are a parent or a teacher who would like to utilize this activity, please also make sure that none of the children are allergic to any of the ingredients used in making the toothpaste.
The educational benefits of this activity include engaging students so they will apply math concepts such as measuring, counting, and critical thinking. Some sample questions to ask the children: How many teaspoons did you use all together in making the toothpaste? Does the salt and the baking soda taste the same? How does the toothpaste taste? A variation of flavoring extracts can also be used. The kids could compare the different flavors, and then graph accordingly.
For more family involvement, the kids might be allowed to match the type of flavoring with flavors sold in stores when the kids accompany parents during grocery shopping.
Whether "Making Toothpaste" is used as a family activity or a classroom activity, its overall objective remains the same: to have fun. So, regardless of the reason why you might choose to use this activity, please remember to have fun with it.
Are you looking for a fun activity that might be educational, too? Looking for a fun way to get kids to brush their teeth? Are you looking for just a fun activity? If you answered yes to any of those questions, then you might want to try your hand at making toothpaste.
Materials Needed:
bowls
baking soda
salt
water
food flavoring extract
spoons
sandwich bags
Place baking soda, salt, and water in separate bowls. Assist the children in placing 4 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of water in individual sandwich bags. Add a drop of food flavoring extract, such as peppermint, mint, or orange. Let the children mix their own toothpaste in the sandwich bags.
This activity is appropriate for children aged 6 and up. Always be sure to provide adult supervision. Whether you are a parent or a teacher who would like to utilize this activity, please also make sure that none of the children are allergic to any of the ingredients used in making the toothpaste.
The educational benefits of this activity include engaging students so they will apply math concepts such as measuring, counting, and critical thinking. Some sample questions to ask the children: How many teaspoons did you use all together in making the toothpaste? Does the salt and the baking soda taste the same? How does the toothpaste taste? A variation of flavoring extracts can also be used. The kids could compare the different flavors, and then graph accordingly.
For more family involvement, the kids might be allowed to match the type of flavoring with flavors sold in stores when the kids accompany parents during grocery shopping.
Whether "Making Toothpaste" is used as a family activity or a classroom activity, its overall objective remains the same: to have fun. So, regardless of the reason why you might choose to use this activity, please remember to have fun with it.
Buying Christmas Gifts For Teacher
by: Low Jeremy
With Christmas fast approaching, one of the people that should be in your gift list is your teacher, especially your favorite teacher. Although it may be considered tacky to give gifts to your professors as some may see it as a form of bribery; you can still give gifts as long as they are not too expensive.
It is one way of showing teachers that you appreciate the efforts that they are making in teaching you what you need to learn. Below are some gift ideas for teachers that they will surely appreciate.
1. Cake and pastries
Who doesn’t want to be given cake and pastries? This is a wonderful holiday gift especially if you are going to have it designed in festive colors and figures. Of course, before you bake the cake or before you buy one, do some research and ask around for your teacher’s favorite flavor. Does she love chocolate cake or is more partial to mocha or mango? Does she like cakes or does she prefer cookies or tarts? It is often good to do some digging. It shows that you care enough to spend time in research.
2. Fruits
Apples have long been associated with gifts for teachers. Well, you can do better than that by giving them a basket of fruits that they can take to the faculty room or to their homes. Include fruits that are not so usual to lend it a more unique feel. Make sure that the fruits are fresh and ripe.
3. Turkey, Ham and other Holiday feast
Another great gift that you can give your teachers are turkey, ham or any food that they can serve in their dinner table come Holiday. You can either roast them yourself or buy one from the corner store.
4. Greeting Cards
Even as simple as a Christmas greeting card is enough to make your teacher smile. There are cheap cards available in bookstores that you can use. If you don’t have the money to spend for ready made Holiday cards, you can always make your own greetings cards.
In fact, they will better appreciate a handmade card because they know that it is something that you spent time and effort on. Besides, it is a great way to exercise your creativity and artistry plus of course some vocabulary!
5. Chocolates
Chocolates work their magic every time. One great time to buy lots of chocolates at really low prices is after Halloween when stores organize sale of leftover candies and chocolates from Halloween Trick or Treating.
With Christmas fast approaching, one of the people that should be in your gift list is your teacher, especially your favorite teacher. Although it may be considered tacky to give gifts to your professors as some may see it as a form of bribery; you can still give gifts as long as they are not too expensive.
It is one way of showing teachers that you appreciate the efforts that they are making in teaching you what you need to learn. Below are some gift ideas for teachers that they will surely appreciate.
1. Cake and pastries
Who doesn’t want to be given cake and pastries? This is a wonderful holiday gift especially if you are going to have it designed in festive colors and figures. Of course, before you bake the cake or before you buy one, do some research and ask around for your teacher’s favorite flavor. Does she love chocolate cake or is more partial to mocha or mango? Does she like cakes or does she prefer cookies or tarts? It is often good to do some digging. It shows that you care enough to spend time in research.
2. Fruits
Apples have long been associated with gifts for teachers. Well, you can do better than that by giving them a basket of fruits that they can take to the faculty room or to their homes. Include fruits that are not so usual to lend it a more unique feel. Make sure that the fruits are fresh and ripe.
3. Turkey, Ham and other Holiday feast
Another great gift that you can give your teachers are turkey, ham or any food that they can serve in their dinner table come Holiday. You can either roast them yourself or buy one from the corner store.
4. Greeting Cards
Even as simple as a Christmas greeting card is enough to make your teacher smile. There are cheap cards available in bookstores that you can use. If you don’t have the money to spend for ready made Holiday cards, you can always make your own greetings cards.
In fact, they will better appreciate a handmade card because they know that it is something that you spent time and effort on. Besides, it is a great way to exercise your creativity and artistry plus of course some vocabulary!
5. Chocolates
Chocolates work their magic every time. One great time to buy lots of chocolates at really low prices is after Halloween when stores organize sale of leftover candies and chocolates from Halloween Trick or Treating.
Acne: A Skin Condition Common Among Teenagers
by: Morgan Ulrich
Acne is a skin condition that many individuals have. Despite the fact that individuals of all ages can develop this common skin condition, there is one group of individuals who are more likely to develop it. That group is teenagers. Teenagers are more at risk for acne, especially when they begin to hit puberty. For that reason, there is a good chance that you may be the parent of a teenager who has an acne problem, whether that problem is large or small.
If you haven’t already noticed, times have changed. Unfortunately, this has led to appearance concerns among many teenagers. Although you might not necessarily think that acne is a big deal, it may be to your child. That is why it is extremely important that you talk to your child about their acne, especially if they have a severe case of it. Acne may go away on its own, but it might not. If your child constantly has problems with acne, it may be a good idea to schedule a visit with a healthcare professional.
When seeking treatment for your child’s acne problem, you will likely find that you have a number of different professional options. Most primary care physicians, also commonly referred to as family physicians, should be able to treat acne. This treatment will often include an over-the-counter medication or a prescription medication. The type of action taken will likely depend on how severe your child’s acne problem is. In addition to their primary care physician, you may also want to take your child to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions.
Aside from being prescribed medications or given another treatment plan, you and your teenager will likely learn more about acne. Your healthcare provider, whether it is your primary care physician or a dermatologist, should provide you with information on acne. This information should not only include how to treat it, but how to manage acne outbreaks, as well as how to prevent them. Although this important information should automatically be explained to you, it might not be. When it comes to treating acne, it is important to learn more about it; therefore, if it is not automatically explained, you need to ask.
Regardless of which type of medical professional you are speaking with, a primary care physician or a dermatologist, you will likely learn, as mentioned above, that acne is not uncommon in teenagers. It fact, it has been stated that over half of all teenagers will develop a problem with acne, at one time or another. You may also learn that acne not only includes zits, but it also includes blackheads and whiteheads. You should also learn how and why acne develops. It is even possible that your healthcare physician may have also determined an exact cause for your child’s acne problem, such as unclean skin, clogged pores, or greasy health and beauty products.
As you can easily see, you and your child can learn a lot by meeting with a healthcare worker. Despite the fact that you are advised to seek professional assistance, it may not be possible. Whether you are without insurance or you cannot afford a doctor’s visit, your child does not have to suffer from acne. There are a number of over-the-counter medications that may be able to help reduce or completely eliminate the number of blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples that your teenager has. While prescription medications may work more effectively and quicker, over-the-counter medications are great alternatives. These relatively low-cost medications can be purchased from most department stores, drug stores, or grocery stores. The amount of time it takes for your child’s acne to clear up, if it even clears up at all, will all depend on what type of product you are using.
Since acne is relatively easy to treat, at least from your standpoint, you are advised to take action. Whether your teenager complains about their acne or if you think a problem may be in the process of developing, you are advised to get them the help that they need. Whether that help comes from a medical professional or an over-the-counter medication, your teenager will likely be please that action was initiated.
Acne is a skin condition that many individuals have. Despite the fact that individuals of all ages can develop this common skin condition, there is one group of individuals who are more likely to develop it. That group is teenagers. Teenagers are more at risk for acne, especially when they begin to hit puberty. For that reason, there is a good chance that you may be the parent of a teenager who has an acne problem, whether that problem is large or small.
If you haven’t already noticed, times have changed. Unfortunately, this has led to appearance concerns among many teenagers. Although you might not necessarily think that acne is a big deal, it may be to your child. That is why it is extremely important that you talk to your child about their acne, especially if they have a severe case of it. Acne may go away on its own, but it might not. If your child constantly has problems with acne, it may be a good idea to schedule a visit with a healthcare professional.
When seeking treatment for your child’s acne problem, you will likely find that you have a number of different professional options. Most primary care physicians, also commonly referred to as family physicians, should be able to treat acne. This treatment will often include an over-the-counter medication or a prescription medication. The type of action taken will likely depend on how severe your child’s acne problem is. In addition to their primary care physician, you may also want to take your child to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions.
Aside from being prescribed medications or given another treatment plan, you and your teenager will likely learn more about acne. Your healthcare provider, whether it is your primary care physician or a dermatologist, should provide you with information on acne. This information should not only include how to treat it, but how to manage acne outbreaks, as well as how to prevent them. Although this important information should automatically be explained to you, it might not be. When it comes to treating acne, it is important to learn more about it; therefore, if it is not automatically explained, you need to ask.
Regardless of which type of medical professional you are speaking with, a primary care physician or a dermatologist, you will likely learn, as mentioned above, that acne is not uncommon in teenagers. It fact, it has been stated that over half of all teenagers will develop a problem with acne, at one time or another. You may also learn that acne not only includes zits, but it also includes blackheads and whiteheads. You should also learn how and why acne develops. It is even possible that your healthcare physician may have also determined an exact cause for your child’s acne problem, such as unclean skin, clogged pores, or greasy health and beauty products.
As you can easily see, you and your child can learn a lot by meeting with a healthcare worker. Despite the fact that you are advised to seek professional assistance, it may not be possible. Whether you are without insurance or you cannot afford a doctor’s visit, your child does not have to suffer from acne. There are a number of over-the-counter medications that may be able to help reduce or completely eliminate the number of blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples that your teenager has. While prescription medications may work more effectively and quicker, over-the-counter medications are great alternatives. These relatively low-cost medications can be purchased from most department stores, drug stores, or grocery stores. The amount of time it takes for your child’s acne to clear up, if it even clears up at all, will all depend on what type of product you are using.
Since acne is relatively easy to treat, at least from your standpoint, you are advised to take action. Whether your teenager complains about their acne or if you think a problem may be in the process of developing, you are advised to get them the help that they need. Whether that help comes from a medical professional or an over-the-counter medication, your teenager will likely be please that action was initiated.
The Storied History Of Barbie And All Her Family And Friends
by: Terry Edwards
Barbie sure has had more than her share of friends over the years. Here is a list of all her many friends and acquaintances since she came out in 1959. See if you can remember some of these from years gone by. Beside the names are the years in which each doll was made and available.
Barbie - She started in 1959 and is still going strong to this day.
Ken - Introduced in 1961 as Barbie's boyfriend, Ken was a long time companion of Barbie up until 2004 when they separated.
Midge - She was a best friend of Barbie's from 1963-66 and then again from 1988 until now.
Skipper - The Barbie doll little sister, Skipper was introduced in 1964 and is still available today.
Allan - This was Ken's first friend from 1964-65.
Skooter - Skipper needed a good friend and along came Skooter in 1965-66.
Ricky - Another friend of Skipper's in 1965 was Ricky, but he didn't stick around for long.
Tutti & Todd - In 1966 Barbie got herself twins! Another little sister and a brother.
Francie - Introduced as Barbie's cousin in 1966, Francie was around up until 1976.
Chris - This was Tutti's best friend in 1967. Must have moved away after that.
Casey - Francie's best friend in 1967 and again in 1974.
Christie - She has been one of Barbie's longtime friends, from 1968 until now, Christie has been by her side.
Stacey - She was another friend of Barbie's during the late 60's.
PJ - Another of Barbie's popular friends from 1969-1985.
Brad - He was on of Ken's buddies in 1970.
Jamie - One of Barbie's many friends, she was around from 1970-72.
Fluff - A new friend of Skipper's in 1971.
Tiff - Another one of Skipper's friends in 1972.
Steffi - She was only around for one year as Barbie's friend in 1972.
Kelley - During 1973-74, Kelley was one of Barbie's acqauintances.
Cara - Yet another friend of Barbie from 1975-76.
Curtis - Ken's new friend in 1976.
Ginger - She was a friend of Skipper's in 1976.
Scott - Another one of Skipper's friends in 1980.
Dana - A friend of Barbie's in 1986-87.
Dee Dee - Barbie's friend during 1986-87.
Derek - A buddy of Ken's in 1986-87.
Diva - One of Barbie's friends from 1986-87.
Miko - Barbie's friend in 1986-89.
Whitney - A friend of Barbie's from 1987-89.
Becky - Belinda - Bopsy - All three were Barbie's friends in 1988.
Steven - He has been Ken's best friend since 1988 until now.
Teresa - One of Barbie's good friends from 1988 until now.
Jazzie - A cousin of Barbie's from 1989-93.
Chelsie - Dude - Stacie - All were friends of Jazzie in 1989.
Courtney - She is Skipper's good friend from 1989 until now.
Kayla - Barbie's friend in 1989 and again in 1994.
Stacie - Another of Barbie's sisters born in 1992 until now.
Todd - Barbie's brother in 1991.
Kelly - Another sister of Barbie's in 1995.
Becky - Chelsie - Melody - Deidre - Jenny - Marissa - Tommy - All are friends of Kelly since 1996 and 1997.
Of course, there have been other friends of Barbie and Ken during the 90's and up until this very day. What a family Barbie has had, along with more friends than most could imagine. I'm sure the future has many more new acquaintances in store.
Barbie sure has had more than her share of friends over the years. Here is a list of all her many friends and acquaintances since she came out in 1959. See if you can remember some of these from years gone by. Beside the names are the years in which each doll was made and available.
Barbie - She started in 1959 and is still going strong to this day.
Ken - Introduced in 1961 as Barbie's boyfriend, Ken was a long time companion of Barbie up until 2004 when they separated.
Midge - She was a best friend of Barbie's from 1963-66 and then again from 1988 until now.
Skipper - The Barbie doll little sister, Skipper was introduced in 1964 and is still available today.
Allan - This was Ken's first friend from 1964-65.
Skooter - Skipper needed a good friend and along came Skooter in 1965-66.
Ricky - Another friend of Skipper's in 1965 was Ricky, but he didn't stick around for long.
Tutti & Todd - In 1966 Barbie got herself twins! Another little sister and a brother.
Francie - Introduced as Barbie's cousin in 1966, Francie was around up until 1976.
Chris - This was Tutti's best friend in 1967. Must have moved away after that.
Casey - Francie's best friend in 1967 and again in 1974.
Christie - She has been one of Barbie's longtime friends, from 1968 until now, Christie has been by her side.
Stacey - She was another friend of Barbie's during the late 60's.
PJ - Another of Barbie's popular friends from 1969-1985.
Brad - He was on of Ken's buddies in 1970.
Jamie - One of Barbie's many friends, she was around from 1970-72.
Fluff - A new friend of Skipper's in 1971.
Tiff - Another one of Skipper's friends in 1972.
Steffi - She was only around for one year as Barbie's friend in 1972.
Kelley - During 1973-74, Kelley was one of Barbie's acqauintances.
Cara - Yet another friend of Barbie from 1975-76.
Curtis - Ken's new friend in 1976.
Ginger - She was a friend of Skipper's in 1976.
Scott - Another one of Skipper's friends in 1980.
Dana - A friend of Barbie's in 1986-87.
Dee Dee - Barbie's friend during 1986-87.
Derek - A buddy of Ken's in 1986-87.
Diva - One of Barbie's friends from 1986-87.
Miko - Barbie's friend in 1986-89.
Whitney - A friend of Barbie's from 1987-89.
Becky - Belinda - Bopsy - All three were Barbie's friends in 1988.
Steven - He has been Ken's best friend since 1988 until now.
Teresa - One of Barbie's good friends from 1988 until now.
Jazzie - A cousin of Barbie's from 1989-93.
Chelsie - Dude - Stacie - All were friends of Jazzie in 1989.
Courtney - She is Skipper's good friend from 1989 until now.
Kayla - Barbie's friend in 1989 and again in 1994.
Stacie - Another of Barbie's sisters born in 1992 until now.
Todd - Barbie's brother in 1991.
Kelly - Another sister of Barbie's in 1995.
Becky - Chelsie - Melody - Deidre - Jenny - Marissa - Tommy - All are friends of Kelly since 1996 and 1997.
Of course, there have been other friends of Barbie and Ken during the 90's and up until this very day. What a family Barbie has had, along with more friends than most could imagine. I'm sure the future has many more new acquaintances in store.
Top 10 Xbox 360 Games Your Kids Want For Christmas This Year - Guaranteed!
by: Jason Purnell
Xbox 360 was the number one smash hit for Christmas gifts last year. The reasons are obvious: more visual effects, better console, incredible action, and excellent game choices. This year again teens will be playing Xbox 360 games with their friends, comparing games at school, and buying, renting or swapping the new Xbox games out this year. Here are some of the top picks for Christmas 2006, in a variety of categories, such as action, adventure, shooters, sports, and role-playing. Something for everyone.
1. Gears of War - Shooter
Now this is what next-gen gaming is all about! I've logged over 13 hours of game time so far, and haven't even finished it, but that's because I'm milking this baby for all it's worth. The campaign experience is one to be savored, as there probably won't be anything like it again for quite some time. Gears of War is one of those titles that comes around every couple of years and raises the bar so high that it almost spoils every game released in the next six months.
This third-person shooter thrusts gamers into a deep and harrowing story of humankind's epic battle for survival against the Locust Horde, a nightmarish race of creatures that surface from the bowels of the earth.
Gears of War is about teamwork in a big way. All game modes, levels and scenarios are designed specifically to encourage cooperative play, whether it be with A.I. partners or human players (with A.I. teammates designed with specific strengths, weaknesses and personalities). Also, voice recognition will be available for players, and voice chat to discuss strategy with your friends.
2. Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter - Shooter
The face of war has changed with Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter. Enemy lines are blurred and there is no clear opponent. New enemies and threats require a new type of warfare and a new kind of soldier. Enter the Ghosts.
In 2013, the U.S. Army will implement its Integrated Warfighter System. IWS combines advanced weapon systems, satellite communication devices, and enhanced survivability features into a fully integrated warfare combat system. Equipped with cutting edge weapons and communications systems, you will find yourself, one of the Ghosts, immersed in a detailed universe which is warfare of the future.
One gamer exclaimed, "This game is a pure showcase of next gen gaming. the graphica are downright gorgeous and this actually helps to immerse you into the story. and the story is riveting enough to actually make you care about mexico city... do your self a favor and buy this game."
3. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion - RPG
Like earlier games in the Elder Scrolls series, Oblivion is designed to present a living fantasy world that gamers experience on their own terms. The game is populated with over 1,000 NPCs, each leading a fully realized life, following regular schedules according to their individual wants, needs, and positions. Players are encouraged to interact in the world as they choose, as noble heroes, greedy villains, or anything in between. The game's main story and its sidemissions provide plenty of fast-moving adventure.
Advised one fan: "This Game Is Like Crack. Massive enivornment; Beautiful graphics; Great ambient music and sound; Totally engrossing gameplay. This game is unbelieveable. If you like RPG's in the SLIGHTEST, buy it."
4. Fight Night Round 3 - Sports
Easily beating the competition, Fight Night Round 3 brings the most intense boxing videogame experience ever to the virtual boxing ring. Film-quality graphics establish Fight Night Round 3 as one of the best looking and playing Xbox 360 sports games ever produced. The graphics feature devastating punch impacts unparalleled in any game or film.
Outside of the ring, gamers can establish intense rivalries through pre-fight events and trash talk, putting more purpose and passion behind their every hit. The visuals in Fight Night Round 3 are so excellent that they actually enhance the gameplay. The gameplay has been revamped from what was already an excellent experience in Round 2.
5. Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent - Action
The bestselling Tom Clancy's "Splinter Cell" game takes on an entirely new direction. You play as a double agent for the first time ever in Splinter Cell Double Agent. You'll take on the dual roles of covert operative and ruthless terrorist, where your choices of whom to betray and whom to protect actually affect the outcome of your game.
Experience the relentless tension and gut-wrenching dilemmas of life as a double agent. Lie. Kill. Sabotage. Betray. But above all, save and protect the innocent. How far will you go to gain the enemy's trust? As covert operative Sam Fisher, you'll infiltrate a vicious terrorist group and seek to destroy it from within. Carefully weigh the consequences of your actions--kill too many terrorists and blow your cover. Hesitate and millions will die. Do whatever it takes to complete your mission, but get out alive.
6. LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy - Action
The war between the Galactic Empire and the Rebel Alliance has left the galaxy far, far away a huge mess! But luckily with LEGOs, rebuilding is easy! Play through the original trilogy, Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi, as all three movies are re-created using LEGO bricks. You can play as one of 50 different characters and can even get out of vehicles and ride on various creatures.
Our recommendation: If you liked the first Star Wars game, this one should definitely be on your list. If you've never played the first game, then this one must be on your list! So really, there isn't any reason not to own and play this game.
7. Madden NFL 07 - Sports
With Madden NFL 07, innovative rushing controls allow you to control the running game like never before, with all-new jukes, cutbacks, and the distinct running styles of your favorite backs.
For the first time, in a football video game, you can step up as the lead blocker to create a hole, and then take control of the tailback to smash through, jump over, or tear away from any would-be tackler as you head for the end zone.
One fan raved, "Overall it was exactly what i was looking for, ... the new features are all fun, and the individual camera view for every position in superstar mode gave u a feeling of really playing as the character. This will be a great game to play alone or with a group of friends."
8. Dead Rising - Action
Dead Rising follows the harrowing saga of Frank West, an overly zealous freelance photojournalist on a hunt for the scoop of a lifetime. In pursuit of a clue, he makes his way to a small suburban town only to find that it has been overrun by zombies. He escapes to the local shopping mall, thinking it will be a bastion of safety, but it turns out to be anything but.
In the intense struggle to survive the endless stream of zombies, players have full reign of a realistic shopping center, utilizing anything they find to fight off the flesh-hungry mob. The variety of stores in the mall offers players an endless supply of resources including vehicles, makeshift weapons and more. Players encounter other survivors along the way, and by helping them, acquire valuable clues as to what has happened and how to survive.
I couldn't say it better than one fan: "Thousands and thousands of zombies to kill in a myriad of ridiculous ways; tons of things to see and try throughout the mall; great sense of style; a plot that manages to be intriguing without intruding too much on the action; and fantastic sound effects."
9. Saints Row - Action
Welcome to Stilwater, an open-world city with attitude, a city controlled by rival gangs, a city you are about to take over in Saints Row. As a low-level thug in the Third Street Saints, you'll do whatever it takes to get the money and build the respect and power you need to muscle your way to the top. Be careful, though. Your actions have consequences within the game, and around every corner lurks a new threat.
Numerous vehicles are available to "borrow," pedestrians can be slugged or robbed at gunpoint, and there are an assortment of missions to advance the game's primarily storyline. Some features include: fun, responsive driving controls; excellent on-foot shooting action; impressive presentation, featuring amazing explosions and great audio; and a well-written, well-acted story to compel you to keep playing.
10. Hitman: Blood Money - Action
On the run from rival assassins, Agent 47 hops a plane to take care of business stateside in Hitman: Blood Money. Players will guide Agent 47 through a number of locales, including New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas as he performs hits. It's up to the player to determine the manner in which a hit is executed, but the "rookie training" mode can show amateur assassins how to help targets have "accidents," by pushing the victim over a ledge or pinning him underneath a heavy object.
The amount of money earned from completed jobs varies depending on the cleanliness and professionalism of the hit. Agent 47's paychecks can be spent in a number of ways including bribing reporters, customizing weapons with one of 15 upgrades, or paying pedestrians for information. Open-ended stealth action gameplay lets you sneak around, or run and gun; beautifully crafted mission set pieces seem appropriately big and complex; large variety of realistic weapons; and great combination of action and strategy.
Xbox 360 was the number one smash hit for Christmas gifts last year. The reasons are obvious: more visual effects, better console, incredible action, and excellent game choices. This year again teens will be playing Xbox 360 games with their friends, comparing games at school, and buying, renting or swapping the new Xbox games out this year. Here are some of the top picks for Christmas 2006, in a variety of categories, such as action, adventure, shooters, sports, and role-playing. Something for everyone.
1. Gears of War - Shooter
Now this is what next-gen gaming is all about! I've logged over 13 hours of game time so far, and haven't even finished it, but that's because I'm milking this baby for all it's worth. The campaign experience is one to be savored, as there probably won't be anything like it again for quite some time. Gears of War is one of those titles that comes around every couple of years and raises the bar so high that it almost spoils every game released in the next six months.
This third-person shooter thrusts gamers into a deep and harrowing story of humankind's epic battle for survival against the Locust Horde, a nightmarish race of creatures that surface from the bowels of the earth.
Gears of War is about teamwork in a big way. All game modes, levels and scenarios are designed specifically to encourage cooperative play, whether it be with A.I. partners or human players (with A.I. teammates designed with specific strengths, weaknesses and personalities). Also, voice recognition will be available for players, and voice chat to discuss strategy with your friends.
2. Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter - Shooter
The face of war has changed with Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter. Enemy lines are blurred and there is no clear opponent. New enemies and threats require a new type of warfare and a new kind of soldier. Enter the Ghosts.
In 2013, the U.S. Army will implement its Integrated Warfighter System. IWS combines advanced weapon systems, satellite communication devices, and enhanced survivability features into a fully integrated warfare combat system. Equipped with cutting edge weapons and communications systems, you will find yourself, one of the Ghosts, immersed in a detailed universe which is warfare of the future.
One gamer exclaimed, "This game is a pure showcase of next gen gaming. the graphica are downright gorgeous and this actually helps to immerse you into the story. and the story is riveting enough to actually make you care about mexico city... do your self a favor and buy this game."
3. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion - RPG
Like earlier games in the Elder Scrolls series, Oblivion is designed to present a living fantasy world that gamers experience on their own terms. The game is populated with over 1,000 NPCs, each leading a fully realized life, following regular schedules according to their individual wants, needs, and positions. Players are encouraged to interact in the world as they choose, as noble heroes, greedy villains, or anything in between. The game's main story and its sidemissions provide plenty of fast-moving adventure.
Advised one fan: "This Game Is Like Crack. Massive enivornment; Beautiful graphics; Great ambient music and sound; Totally engrossing gameplay. This game is unbelieveable. If you like RPG's in the SLIGHTEST, buy it."
4. Fight Night Round 3 - Sports
Easily beating the competition, Fight Night Round 3 brings the most intense boxing videogame experience ever to the virtual boxing ring. Film-quality graphics establish Fight Night Round 3 as one of the best looking and playing Xbox 360 sports games ever produced. The graphics feature devastating punch impacts unparalleled in any game or film.
Outside of the ring, gamers can establish intense rivalries through pre-fight events and trash talk, putting more purpose and passion behind their every hit. The visuals in Fight Night Round 3 are so excellent that they actually enhance the gameplay. The gameplay has been revamped from what was already an excellent experience in Round 2.
5. Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent - Action
The bestselling Tom Clancy's "Splinter Cell" game takes on an entirely new direction. You play as a double agent for the first time ever in Splinter Cell Double Agent. You'll take on the dual roles of covert operative and ruthless terrorist, where your choices of whom to betray and whom to protect actually affect the outcome of your game.
Experience the relentless tension and gut-wrenching dilemmas of life as a double agent. Lie. Kill. Sabotage. Betray. But above all, save and protect the innocent. How far will you go to gain the enemy's trust? As covert operative Sam Fisher, you'll infiltrate a vicious terrorist group and seek to destroy it from within. Carefully weigh the consequences of your actions--kill too many terrorists and blow your cover. Hesitate and millions will die. Do whatever it takes to complete your mission, but get out alive.
6. LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy - Action
The war between the Galactic Empire and the Rebel Alliance has left the galaxy far, far away a huge mess! But luckily with LEGOs, rebuilding is easy! Play through the original trilogy, Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi, as all three movies are re-created using LEGO bricks. You can play as one of 50 different characters and can even get out of vehicles and ride on various creatures.
Our recommendation: If you liked the first Star Wars game, this one should definitely be on your list. If you've never played the first game, then this one must be on your list! So really, there isn't any reason not to own and play this game.
7. Madden NFL 07 - Sports
With Madden NFL 07, innovative rushing controls allow you to control the running game like never before, with all-new jukes, cutbacks, and the distinct running styles of your favorite backs.
For the first time, in a football video game, you can step up as the lead blocker to create a hole, and then take control of the tailback to smash through, jump over, or tear away from any would-be tackler as you head for the end zone.
One fan raved, "Overall it was exactly what i was looking for, ... the new features are all fun, and the individual camera view for every position in superstar mode gave u a feeling of really playing as the character. This will be a great game to play alone or with a group of friends."
8. Dead Rising - Action
Dead Rising follows the harrowing saga of Frank West, an overly zealous freelance photojournalist on a hunt for the scoop of a lifetime. In pursuit of a clue, he makes his way to a small suburban town only to find that it has been overrun by zombies. He escapes to the local shopping mall, thinking it will be a bastion of safety, but it turns out to be anything but.
In the intense struggle to survive the endless stream of zombies, players have full reign of a realistic shopping center, utilizing anything they find to fight off the flesh-hungry mob. The variety of stores in the mall offers players an endless supply of resources including vehicles, makeshift weapons and more. Players encounter other survivors along the way, and by helping them, acquire valuable clues as to what has happened and how to survive.
I couldn't say it better than one fan: "Thousands and thousands of zombies to kill in a myriad of ridiculous ways; tons of things to see and try throughout the mall; great sense of style; a plot that manages to be intriguing without intruding too much on the action; and fantastic sound effects."
9. Saints Row - Action
Welcome to Stilwater, an open-world city with attitude, a city controlled by rival gangs, a city you are about to take over in Saints Row. As a low-level thug in the Third Street Saints, you'll do whatever it takes to get the money and build the respect and power you need to muscle your way to the top. Be careful, though. Your actions have consequences within the game, and around every corner lurks a new threat.
Numerous vehicles are available to "borrow," pedestrians can be slugged or robbed at gunpoint, and there are an assortment of missions to advance the game's primarily storyline. Some features include: fun, responsive driving controls; excellent on-foot shooting action; impressive presentation, featuring amazing explosions and great audio; and a well-written, well-acted story to compel you to keep playing.
10. Hitman: Blood Money - Action
On the run from rival assassins, Agent 47 hops a plane to take care of business stateside in Hitman: Blood Money. Players will guide Agent 47 through a number of locales, including New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas as he performs hits. It's up to the player to determine the manner in which a hit is executed, but the "rookie training" mode can show amateur assassins how to help targets have "accidents," by pushing the victim over a ledge or pinning him underneath a heavy object.
The amount of money earned from completed jobs varies depending on the cleanliness and professionalism of the hit. Agent 47's paychecks can be spent in a number of ways including bribing reporters, customizing weapons with one of 15 upgrades, or paying pedestrians for information. Open-ended stealth action gameplay lets you sneak around, or run and gun; beautifully crafted mission set pieces seem appropriately big and complex; large variety of realistic weapons; and great combination of action and strategy.
Barbie Doll - The Perfect Figure?
by: Terry Edwards
While no one will argue with the popularity of Mattel's Barbie Doll, one area that has raised its fair share of controversy over the years is her figure.
Many parents from around the world have argued that Barbie's ultra-slim figure represents a ridiculous standard for a body shape. They say that many girls grow up thinking that they must have the same figure as Barbie or there is something wrong with them. While I don't take that radical of a stance, I will say that it would be quite difficult to measure up to Barbie's standards.
If you take the measurements of Barbie, she would be over 7 feet tall, weigh around 125 pounds, and have a shape of 32-20-42. Of course, no woman could maintain a figure like that, but this is where the controversy stems.
In addition, Barbie has a very long neck. In fact, her neck is nearly twice the size of the average woman. Her feet are also another source of criticism with many saying that Barbie's feet are only half the size of a normal womans due to foot binding. That is the practice of preventing your feet from growing by constricting them.
Some have went as far as saying that the Barbie doll has caused their children to become anorexic from trying to maintain Barbie's figure. I think that may be a little extreme, but I can see both sides.
In recent years, Mattel has given in a little bit on this issue and widened Barbie's waist a bit. This took place around the year 2000. Barbie now has a more proportioned waist.
Regardless of what Barbie's figure looks like, or who is right or wrong on this issue, the real winner in this debate is Mattel. The added controversy and publicity only helps to fuel sales. I wonder why no one talks about Ken's figure?
While no one will argue with the popularity of Mattel's Barbie Doll, one area that has raised its fair share of controversy over the years is her figure.
Many parents from around the world have argued that Barbie's ultra-slim figure represents a ridiculous standard for a body shape. They say that many girls grow up thinking that they must have the same figure as Barbie or there is something wrong with them. While I don't take that radical of a stance, I will say that it would be quite difficult to measure up to Barbie's standards.
If you take the measurements of Barbie, she would be over 7 feet tall, weigh around 125 pounds, and have a shape of 32-20-42. Of course, no woman could maintain a figure like that, but this is where the controversy stems.
In addition, Barbie has a very long neck. In fact, her neck is nearly twice the size of the average woman. Her feet are also another source of criticism with many saying that Barbie's feet are only half the size of a normal womans due to foot binding. That is the practice of preventing your feet from growing by constricting them.
Some have went as far as saying that the Barbie doll has caused their children to become anorexic from trying to maintain Barbie's figure. I think that may be a little extreme, but I can see both sides.
In recent years, Mattel has given in a little bit on this issue and widened Barbie's waist a bit. This took place around the year 2000. Barbie now has a more proportioned waist.
Regardless of what Barbie's figure looks like, or who is right or wrong on this issue, the real winner in this debate is Mattel. The added controversy and publicity only helps to fuel sales. I wonder why no one talks about Ken's figure?
Skateboarding In The Eighties To The Present
by: Kadence Buchanan
Skateboarding traces its roots to the seventies but it really reached the peak of its popularity in the mid-eighties to the present when major skateboard manufacturers propelled it to new heights. First, they started with half-pipe and vert ramp skateboarding. The manufacturers upgraded the boards to make their decks very wide and to equip them with larger and wider wheels.
As the years went by, the focus shifted to street skateboarding, which brought about a few changes in deck shape and wheel size. With the growing popularity of street skating, new stars rose to prominence, such as Mark Gonzales, one of street skating's pioneers. Gonzales is recognized as one of the first skateboarders to ollie up a curb and to clear a set of stairs. By this time, manufacturers had shifted their focus to maple plywood over more exotic composite materials. Concave decks were now everywhere.
Today’s current generation of skateboarders usually ride on boards that are about 7¼ to 8 inches wide and 30 to 32 inches long. The wheels now are made with a hard durometer (approximately 99a), which provide a faster ride because it reduces the drag on surfaces that are hard. Wheels are now smaller and the boards are lighter, which makes it easier to make difficult tricks. Today’s wheels are only about 48 to 58 mm in diameter and they are as light as they have ever been thanks to advances in skateboarding technology. Meanwhile, the majority of decks are made out of Canadian Maple and the industry standard is the 7 ply because of its increased strength and durability.
Historically, most keen observers of the sport note that the styles of skateboards changed a lot from the 1970s but have been mostly the same since the dawn of the nineties. The shape of today’s contemporary skateboards assumes the design of freestyle boards from the eighties, with a symmetrical shape and a narrower width than previous skateboards.
These observers also note that the popularity of ramp or vert skatebaording was overtaken by street skateboarding in the nineties. With today’s freestyle techniques, the practice of skateboarding has risen to new heights and new stars are emerging all the time. But throughout it all, the ollie has remained as the base of many of today’s tricks.
Skateboarding traces its roots to the seventies but it really reached the peak of its popularity in the mid-eighties to the present when major skateboard manufacturers propelled it to new heights. First, they started with half-pipe and vert ramp skateboarding. The manufacturers upgraded the boards to make their decks very wide and to equip them with larger and wider wheels.
As the years went by, the focus shifted to street skateboarding, which brought about a few changes in deck shape and wheel size. With the growing popularity of street skating, new stars rose to prominence, such as Mark Gonzales, one of street skating's pioneers. Gonzales is recognized as one of the first skateboarders to ollie up a curb and to clear a set of stairs. By this time, manufacturers had shifted their focus to maple plywood over more exotic composite materials. Concave decks were now everywhere.
Today’s current generation of skateboarders usually ride on boards that are about 7¼ to 8 inches wide and 30 to 32 inches long. The wheels now are made with a hard durometer (approximately 99a), which provide a faster ride because it reduces the drag on surfaces that are hard. Wheels are now smaller and the boards are lighter, which makes it easier to make difficult tricks. Today’s wheels are only about 48 to 58 mm in diameter and they are as light as they have ever been thanks to advances in skateboarding technology. Meanwhile, the majority of decks are made out of Canadian Maple and the industry standard is the 7 ply because of its increased strength and durability.
Historically, most keen observers of the sport note that the styles of skateboards changed a lot from the 1970s but have been mostly the same since the dawn of the nineties. The shape of today’s contemporary skateboards assumes the design of freestyle boards from the eighties, with a symmetrical shape and a narrower width than previous skateboards.
These observers also note that the popularity of ramp or vert skatebaording was overtaken by street skateboarding in the nineties. With today’s freestyle techniques, the practice of skateboarding has risen to new heights and new stars are emerging all the time. But throughout it all, the ollie has remained as the base of many of today’s tricks.
A Guide to Banking for Students
by: Joseph Kenny
A bank serves as a financial institution, providing complex financial services, right from the maintenance of deposits to extending credit. A little guidance and initiative help students to improve their personal credit record.
Banking offers the convenience of not having to handle large sums of money, thereby minimizing the chances of theft. Moreover, most of the financial institutions enable you to earn interest on your money deposited in a particular account.
There are a number of bank accounts and financial plans that are specifically designed for students. Today, students handle allowances that take care of all their financial requirements and if judiciously saved, could save them from debt in the future too. It is essential for students to select the right bank.
Tips to select the right bank for students:
The following tips would help students in selecting the best bank for themselves:
- Services offered: It is essential to opt for a bank that meets your specific requirements and serves you efficiently.
- Convenience: Before selecting a bank, you should check the location, working hours and your accessibility.
- Insured federally: Always look for a bank that is insured. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or FDCI insures most banks. It indicates that even if the bank goes bankrupt, you would get your money back, up to $100,000.
- Bank fees: There are bank fees associated with the bank accounts. They charge fees on dropping below the minimum balance, overdraft protection, issue of checks and many more.
Requirements in setting up your banking services:
Financial institutions require you to submit certain important documents, for opening a bank account. They are as follows:
- Your social security number
- A photo ID, like a driver’s license, passport or student ID
- Proof of address
- Your signature on a card or form that is maintained by the bank
Essential banking services for students are as follows:
There are student and graduate accounts, with a number of attractive fringe benefits, designed especially for students. Students struggling to excel in their chosen fields usually cannot afford to pay back the money they borrow, within the expected time frame. Banks offer them the facility of special accounts, designed to increase their loyalty to the financial institution in good time.
Some of the essential considerations to be made, before opting for banking services are:
- Student accounts: A student account offers advantages like vouchers and discounts on branded articles and department stores.
- Overdrafts: Overdrafts enable you to pay your university fees without carrying liquid money. Therefore, it is essential to pick an account with an interest- free overdraft limit.
- Overall package: Though, the overdraft limit is necessary, you need to study the overall bank account package offered. You need to check the fees and charges applicable for certain services.
- Support: Before opening a student’s account, you need to ensure that your account provides you with dedicated support at time of crisis.
You should select a banking service only after conducting substantial research and analyzing the banks credentials.
A bank serves as a financial institution, providing complex financial services, right from the maintenance of deposits to extending credit. A little guidance and initiative help students to improve their personal credit record.
Banking offers the convenience of not having to handle large sums of money, thereby minimizing the chances of theft. Moreover, most of the financial institutions enable you to earn interest on your money deposited in a particular account.
There are a number of bank accounts and financial plans that are specifically designed for students. Today, students handle allowances that take care of all their financial requirements and if judiciously saved, could save them from debt in the future too. It is essential for students to select the right bank.
Tips to select the right bank for students:
The following tips would help students in selecting the best bank for themselves:
- Services offered: It is essential to opt for a bank that meets your specific requirements and serves you efficiently.
- Convenience: Before selecting a bank, you should check the location, working hours and your accessibility.
- Insured federally: Always look for a bank that is insured. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or FDCI insures most banks. It indicates that even if the bank goes bankrupt, you would get your money back, up to $100,000.
- Bank fees: There are bank fees associated with the bank accounts. They charge fees on dropping below the minimum balance, overdraft protection, issue of checks and many more.
Requirements in setting up your banking services:
Financial institutions require you to submit certain important documents, for opening a bank account. They are as follows:
- Your social security number
- A photo ID, like a driver’s license, passport or student ID
- Proof of address
- Your signature on a card or form that is maintained by the bank
Essential banking services for students are as follows:
There are student and graduate accounts, with a number of attractive fringe benefits, designed especially for students. Students struggling to excel in their chosen fields usually cannot afford to pay back the money they borrow, within the expected time frame. Banks offer them the facility of special accounts, designed to increase their loyalty to the financial institution in good time.
Some of the essential considerations to be made, before opting for banking services are:
- Student accounts: A student account offers advantages like vouchers and discounts on branded articles and department stores.
- Overdrafts: Overdrafts enable you to pay your university fees without carrying liquid money. Therefore, it is essential to pick an account with an interest- free overdraft limit.
- Overall package: Though, the overdraft limit is necessary, you need to study the overall bank account package offered. You need to check the fees and charges applicable for certain services.
- Support: Before opening a student’s account, you need to ensure that your account provides you with dedicated support at time of crisis.
You should select a banking service only after conducting substantial research and analyzing the banks credentials.
Where To Find Best Arcade Games
by: Jake Jenkins
Arcade games, historically, emerged as early as the late 1920's where you could find theme parks which combined mechanical form of gaming machines and a great fun atmosphere. This was the beginning of modern gaming. The first video game machines appeared in the and were mainly coin-operated. To play the game, you sloted in your coin or token and when that run out the game ended. You then had to purchase further tokens if so desired. Now, most video game machines use solid state electronics to operate. Scores and bonuses are all electronically controlled.
Atari, which started in 1972, was now dominating the market with popular arcade games such as Pong (electronic version Ping Pong), Pacman, Space Invaders, Battlezone, Donkey Kong and the Galaxian. Video arcade games started appearing everywhere including shopping centers, public houses such as bars, supermarkets, college dormitories, bowling alleys and dedicated amusement parks. However, with video arcade games located in seedy places like casinos and gambling houses, their reputation waned. The sales of arcade games further took a hit with the advent of home video game consoles in the early nineties. People rather preferred to buy or rent out the exact games they used to play in these amusement parks and enjoy it from the comfort of their own homes.
With this decline in fortunes, dedicated arcade games businesses started to suffer and many had to close down or diversify. Diversification involved offering other attractions such as rides with arcade games being only a small part of the business and at least offering arcade lovers to still indulge in their passion. Most of these centers are so different, they are no longer what they used to be.
Playing arcade games is now even easier. With most dedicated venues closed due to advances in the gaming console technology and the internet, you do not need to uproot yourself and find a physical venue. If you are into gaming consoles, all you need is to buy or rent your game and enjoy it in the comfort of your own home. On the other hand, if you wish to play free arcade games with a bit of social interaction, you can choose from many internet gaming platforms where you can play as well as chat or interact with other game lovers in the forums.
In spite of the many milestones arcade games have come, the basic essence of the "arcade" is still present in most modern games. Most arcade games offer the game lover different levels of play, starting with the easiest. Once that level has been mastered or maximum points have been scored, you are allowed to move to the next level. Each higher level is progressively more difficult. You stay in the game if you stay "alive" or your "virtual" tokens get finished. Obviously, physical tokens are not needed for online arcade games but the general theme is always present. Newer games such as Street Fighter I and King Fighters offer a two player game mode which futher enhances the gamers experience.
Arcade games have survived, mainly because they are so addictive and they offer a good recreation time for kid, teens and adults alike and they are likely to be with us for a long time to come.
Arcade games, historically, emerged as early as the late 1920's where you could find theme parks which combined mechanical form of gaming machines and a great fun atmosphere. This was the beginning of modern gaming. The first video game machines appeared in the and were mainly coin-operated. To play the game, you sloted in your coin or token and when that run out the game ended. You then had to purchase further tokens if so desired. Now, most video game machines use solid state electronics to operate. Scores and bonuses are all electronically controlled.
Atari, which started in 1972, was now dominating the market with popular arcade games such as Pong (electronic version Ping Pong), Pacman, Space Invaders, Battlezone, Donkey Kong and the Galaxian. Video arcade games started appearing everywhere including shopping centers, public houses such as bars, supermarkets, college dormitories, bowling alleys and dedicated amusement parks. However, with video arcade games located in seedy places like casinos and gambling houses, their reputation waned. The sales of arcade games further took a hit with the advent of home video game consoles in the early nineties. People rather preferred to buy or rent out the exact games they used to play in these amusement parks and enjoy it from the comfort of their own homes.
With this decline in fortunes, dedicated arcade games businesses started to suffer and many had to close down or diversify. Diversification involved offering other attractions such as rides with arcade games being only a small part of the business and at least offering arcade lovers to still indulge in their passion. Most of these centers are so different, they are no longer what they used to be.
Playing arcade games is now even easier. With most dedicated venues closed due to advances in the gaming console technology and the internet, you do not need to uproot yourself and find a physical venue. If you are into gaming consoles, all you need is to buy or rent your game and enjoy it in the comfort of your own home. On the other hand, if you wish to play free arcade games with a bit of social interaction, you can choose from many internet gaming platforms where you can play as well as chat or interact with other game lovers in the forums.
In spite of the many milestones arcade games have come, the basic essence of the "arcade" is still present in most modern games. Most arcade games offer the game lover different levels of play, starting with the easiest. Once that level has been mastered or maximum points have been scored, you are allowed to move to the next level. Each higher level is progressively more difficult. You stay in the game if you stay "alive" or your "virtual" tokens get finished. Obviously, physical tokens are not needed for online arcade games but the general theme is always present. Newer games such as Street Fighter I and King Fighters offer a two player game mode which futher enhances the gamers experience.
Arcade games have survived, mainly because they are so addictive and they offer a good recreation time for kid, teens and adults alike and they are likely to be with us for a long time to come.
Accessorizing Ideas For Your Prom
by: Christopher Smith
With prom just around the corner, most high school students are trying to make serious plans in order to make this night memorable for them and their dates. Most girls can hardly wait to show off their beautiful dresses or get a look at their guys dressed to the nines. For this special occasion, learning about current fashion trends provides a bit of an edge in choosing the proper dress and accessories for this very special occasion. While many will spend hours, days, even weeks agonizing over the best or most beautiful dress, when the truth is there is so much more to prom than the dress you will wear.
If you have already found your perfect prom dress, that's great but the work doesn't end with the selection of your dress. You must first make sure you find the perfect shoe to wear with your dress. While fashion is important, the most important aspect of finding the perfect prom shoe is comfort. It doesn't matter how great the shoe looks if you can't dance in it. Heels are a wise choice for prom as they emphasize the shape of your legs and "force" you to use better posture. Just make sure they fit well and are comfortable.
You will also want a small delicate purse of handbag for prom rather than your overstuffed every day bag. Your purse for prom only needs to be large enough to hold emergency funds, stockings, lipstick, cell phone, camera, and a few safety pins. If you can, try to find a purse that matches your shoes and dress.
Now that the biggies are out of the way you can concentrate on the small touches that make prom night special: your jewelry. You will want jewelry that matches the personal theme you are trying to set for the evening. If you are going for elegance you will want understated simple jewelry, if you are going for a fun theme with bright colors you might want to find jewelry that is fun and perfect to match your mood. Most importantly, select jewelry that you will wear again at some point in your life. Your jewelry is the icing on your cake for the prom so you do not have to overdo it in order to make an impact.
If you feel a little exposed in your prom dress or are worried about a chill in the air as the night wears on, you can opt to wear a shawl or wrap that compliments your prom dress. This can be a beautiful addition to your prom attire, especially considering that it is not exactly appropriate to wear a jacket for warmth. Your shawl or wrap is an excellent choice for added modesty as well as warmth on your prom night.
With prom just around the corner, most high school students are trying to make serious plans in order to make this night memorable for them and their dates. Most girls can hardly wait to show off their beautiful dresses or get a look at their guys dressed to the nines. For this special occasion, learning about current fashion trends provides a bit of an edge in choosing the proper dress and accessories for this very special occasion. While many will spend hours, days, even weeks agonizing over the best or most beautiful dress, when the truth is there is so much more to prom than the dress you will wear.
If you have already found your perfect prom dress, that's great but the work doesn't end with the selection of your dress. You must first make sure you find the perfect shoe to wear with your dress. While fashion is important, the most important aspect of finding the perfect prom shoe is comfort. It doesn't matter how great the shoe looks if you can't dance in it. Heels are a wise choice for prom as they emphasize the shape of your legs and "force" you to use better posture. Just make sure they fit well and are comfortable.
You will also want a small delicate purse of handbag for prom rather than your overstuffed every day bag. Your purse for prom only needs to be large enough to hold emergency funds, stockings, lipstick, cell phone, camera, and a few safety pins. If you can, try to find a purse that matches your shoes and dress.
Now that the biggies are out of the way you can concentrate on the small touches that make prom night special: your jewelry. You will want jewelry that matches the personal theme you are trying to set for the evening. If you are going for elegance you will want understated simple jewelry, if you are going for a fun theme with bright colors you might want to find jewelry that is fun and perfect to match your mood. Most importantly, select jewelry that you will wear again at some point in your life. Your jewelry is the icing on your cake for the prom so you do not have to overdo it in order to make an impact.
If you feel a little exposed in your prom dress or are worried about a chill in the air as the night wears on, you can opt to wear a shawl or wrap that compliments your prom dress. This can be a beautiful addition to your prom attire, especially considering that it is not exactly appropriate to wear a jacket for warmth. Your shawl or wrap is an excellent choice for added modesty as well as warmth on your prom night.
Play With the Best Video Game System and Spend Hours of Great Fun
by: Harvey Perl
Video games are one of the best forms of entertainment today. With it, you can really make your imagination come alive and become an entirely different character that fights monsters from different planets or be a Formula 1 race car driver.
To play these games, you usually go to the mall and play it on the arcade. In the arcade, you will see different games available. Some are even placed on realistic cars or fighter planes that are designed to follow every move you make. For example, if you play in a fighter plane, you will see that the machine will follow the plane’s movements, when you bank your plane right, you will feel the machine that you’re in move right too, if you pull up, you will feel that the machine will also point up.
Some of the arcade games even have a vibration feedback to alert you that you’re being hit by the enemy. There are even two player modes where you can go head to head with your friends in a dog fight or you can do cooperative missions where your friend can be your wingman. There are a lot more arcade games available.
However, you can’t go to the arcade everyday because doing so can be too expensive. Therefore, you should buy your own video gaming console where you can play right in your own home. Although it won’t contain all the realistic machines that you can find in the arcade, you can still have that great graphics and sound quality in the games.
Another great thing about buying your own gaming console is that you can have flexibility in selecting your games. There are a wide variety of games available that is not yet available or impossible to put in arcades.
In order to maximize enjoyment when you buy a video gaming system, you want to get the best. However, you may wonder what makes a good gaming console. With the number of gaming consoles available in the market today, people get confused on which gaming console they should purchase. The competition makes gaming console manufacturers develop the latest graphics and sound technology and integrate them in their systems making all the different kinds of gaming consoles in the market really stand out.
In the past, crude graphics and simple sounds were the ones available in the market. And, it was really popular. Today, quite a few gaming console manufacturers are now manufacturing the latest gaming consoles with integrated features that can even rival the power of your home personal computer.
Sega, Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony are four of the big names in the gaming console industry. They create the best gaming consoles in the market and really took the world by storm with each new version released. When you play in these consoles, you will know that it can really give quality entertainment for you and your family. When you have the time, you will spend hours on playing an action packed game with amazing realism and sound quality.
To answer the question on what makes a gaming system the best is not just about the sound quality and the graphics technology integrated on the system. Before you buy a gaming console, make sure that the gaming console has a lot of game titles supported. Besides, people would rather choose a gaming console where thousands of different games are available rather than purchasing a gaming console that only supports a few hundred games. You would eventually grow tired or bored of the only few hundred games available in a particular gaming console.
With thousands of gaming titles you can choose from, you can simply buy another game title if you get bored with your other games.
Another thing you should look for in a gaming console today is if it has additional add-on gadgets that you can connect. Some gaming consoles have memory cards that you can buy for you to save your progress in case you want to continue playing later on. Some have different joysticks that you can plug in for a more realistic feel for the game. For example, if you want your racing game feel more realistic, you can purchase a steering wheel with gas and brake pedals and if you want your fighter plane simulator, you can purchase a joystick that looks similar to fighter plane controls.
There are even gaming consoles that are integrated with a modem. This gaming console can give you the capability to connect to the internet and play with other players across the world.
If you choose a video gaming system that has all these features, you purchased the best video game system available. With the continuing development of different gaming consoles, who knows what other features it may bring.
Video games are one of the best forms of entertainment today. With it, you can really make your imagination come alive and become an entirely different character that fights monsters from different planets or be a Formula 1 race car driver.
To play these games, you usually go to the mall and play it on the arcade. In the arcade, you will see different games available. Some are even placed on realistic cars or fighter planes that are designed to follow every move you make. For example, if you play in a fighter plane, you will see that the machine will follow the plane’s movements, when you bank your plane right, you will feel the machine that you’re in move right too, if you pull up, you will feel that the machine will also point up.
Some of the arcade games even have a vibration feedback to alert you that you’re being hit by the enemy. There are even two player modes where you can go head to head with your friends in a dog fight or you can do cooperative missions where your friend can be your wingman. There are a lot more arcade games available.
However, you can’t go to the arcade everyday because doing so can be too expensive. Therefore, you should buy your own video gaming console where you can play right in your own home. Although it won’t contain all the realistic machines that you can find in the arcade, you can still have that great graphics and sound quality in the games.
Another great thing about buying your own gaming console is that you can have flexibility in selecting your games. There are a wide variety of games available that is not yet available or impossible to put in arcades.
In order to maximize enjoyment when you buy a video gaming system, you want to get the best. However, you may wonder what makes a good gaming console. With the number of gaming consoles available in the market today, people get confused on which gaming console they should purchase. The competition makes gaming console manufacturers develop the latest graphics and sound technology and integrate them in their systems making all the different kinds of gaming consoles in the market really stand out.
In the past, crude graphics and simple sounds were the ones available in the market. And, it was really popular. Today, quite a few gaming console manufacturers are now manufacturing the latest gaming consoles with integrated features that can even rival the power of your home personal computer.
Sega, Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony are four of the big names in the gaming console industry. They create the best gaming consoles in the market and really took the world by storm with each new version released. When you play in these consoles, you will know that it can really give quality entertainment for you and your family. When you have the time, you will spend hours on playing an action packed game with amazing realism and sound quality.
To answer the question on what makes a gaming system the best is not just about the sound quality and the graphics technology integrated on the system. Before you buy a gaming console, make sure that the gaming console has a lot of game titles supported. Besides, people would rather choose a gaming console where thousands of different games are available rather than purchasing a gaming console that only supports a few hundred games. You would eventually grow tired or bored of the only few hundred games available in a particular gaming console.
With thousands of gaming titles you can choose from, you can simply buy another game title if you get bored with your other games.
Another thing you should look for in a gaming console today is if it has additional add-on gadgets that you can connect. Some gaming consoles have memory cards that you can buy for you to save your progress in case you want to continue playing later on. Some have different joysticks that you can plug in for a more realistic feel for the game. For example, if you want your racing game feel more realistic, you can purchase a steering wheel with gas and brake pedals and if you want your fighter plane simulator, you can purchase a joystick that looks similar to fighter plane controls.
There are even gaming consoles that are integrated with a modem. This gaming console can give you the capability to connect to the internet and play with other players across the world.
If you choose a video gaming system that has all these features, you purchased the best video game system available. With the continuing development of different gaming consoles, who knows what other features it may bring.
Prom-Day Prep
by: Differin Staff
The big day is finally here! What you do during the day can have a major impact on you’ll look and feel tonight. Here are some smart prom-day strategies.
Don’t forget food
Skipping meals so you can fit into your outfit is not a smart strategy. Fasting will leave you weak, tired and majorly moody come prom time—and that’s no fun. A few light meals throughout the day will give you the ongoing oomph you need to have a blast at night. Some good-for-you, energy-boosting options include yogurt and cereal, eggs and toast, a whole-wheat bagel with peanut better, a turkey sandwich and snacks like fruit and cheese.
Give your locks luster
A deep conditioning treatment or hair mask can give limp locks the sudden surge they need to be your crowning glory. Leave on for 15-20 minutes under a shower cap or towel, then blow with a hair dryer for a few minutes before you rinse; the heat will help the conditioner penetrate.
Make nice to your nails
Nothing finishes off an outfit like well-groomed nails, and giving yourself a manicure is a cinch. Remove old polish, shape nails, then slick on pretty polish; try a clear or neutral shade or a hue that matches your dress. Feel like some extra-pampering? Grab some girlfriends and treat yourselves to professional manicures (your toes could use a treat too!).
Break a sweat
Doing something active will make you feel healthy and rev up those exercise-induced, feel-good chemicals in your brain. Any activity that significantly increases your heart rate will work: go for a run, climb your stairs ten times, take a bike ride or just do some jumping jacks, push ups and crunches while watching TV.
Catch some z’s
Even though you’ve got lots to do today, taking a nap will help you relax and up your energy for the big—and probably late—night. Even just 20 minutes can revive and refresh. If you having trouble drifting off to dreamland, just laying in a dark, quiet room can help you mellow out.
Soak it up
A scented bubble bath will help relax your body and mind. Toss in some essential oils and it can also leave you soft and silky. Just don’t soak longer than 20 minutes or skin can get wrinkled and dry.
Charge it
Tonight’s going to be one to remember so make sure you’re ready to capture the memories on your camera or camcorder. Make sure batteries are charged and there’s enough room on your memory card for all those pretty pics!
The big day is finally here! What you do during the day can have a major impact on you’ll look and feel tonight. Here are some smart prom-day strategies.
Don’t forget food
Skipping meals so you can fit into your outfit is not a smart strategy. Fasting will leave you weak, tired and majorly moody come prom time—and that’s no fun. A few light meals throughout the day will give you the ongoing oomph you need to have a blast at night. Some good-for-you, energy-boosting options include yogurt and cereal, eggs and toast, a whole-wheat bagel with peanut better, a turkey sandwich and snacks like fruit and cheese.
Give your locks luster
A deep conditioning treatment or hair mask can give limp locks the sudden surge they need to be your crowning glory. Leave on for 15-20 minutes under a shower cap or towel, then blow with a hair dryer for a few minutes before you rinse; the heat will help the conditioner penetrate.
Make nice to your nails
Nothing finishes off an outfit like well-groomed nails, and giving yourself a manicure is a cinch. Remove old polish, shape nails, then slick on pretty polish; try a clear or neutral shade or a hue that matches your dress. Feel like some extra-pampering? Grab some girlfriends and treat yourselves to professional manicures (your toes could use a treat too!).
Break a sweat
Doing something active will make you feel healthy and rev up those exercise-induced, feel-good chemicals in your brain. Any activity that significantly increases your heart rate will work: go for a run, climb your stairs ten times, take a bike ride or just do some jumping jacks, push ups and crunches while watching TV.
Catch some z’s
Even though you’ve got lots to do today, taking a nap will help you relax and up your energy for the big—and probably late—night. Even just 20 minutes can revive and refresh. If you having trouble drifting off to dreamland, just laying in a dark, quiet room can help you mellow out.
Soak it up
A scented bubble bath will help relax your body and mind. Toss in some essential oils and it can also leave you soft and silky. Just don’t soak longer than 20 minutes or skin can get wrinkled and dry.
Charge it
Tonight’s going to be one to remember so make sure you’re ready to capture the memories on your camera or camcorder. Make sure batteries are charged and there’s enough room on your memory card for all those pretty pics!
The Way to Find a Terrorific Halloween Costume This Season
by: Matthew Lester
Ever wonder why there are very few Halloween stores when looking for a costume? When you do find a store, they are usually full of people with a small picked over selection of products for sale. Avoid the frustration this year; be smart, take the following suggestion and shop early. The best way to select a unique costume for Halloween is to visit an online Halloween Shop. What better way to find a wide range and huge selection of high quality unearthly costumes, makeup, jewelry, accessories, decorations, party supplies, scary props, videos, tapes and even pumpkin carving patterns from the comfort of your own home. Shopping for Halloween items online is becoming increasingly popular.
Online costume stores offer quality costumes for every age group and size. Adult costumes featuring like various historical and cultural characters, clown costumes, French maid costumes, pirate costumes, funny costumes, witch costumes, devil costumes, vampire costumes, nurse costumes, cowboy costumes, the list is endless. What’s great about these stores is they can also be used for other holidays, not just for Halloween. Buy from the store when needing items for school plays, sporting events, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and for every holiday on the Calendar.
Costume stores strive to provide for those customers who are looking for a costume in all adult men & women sizes, even the hard to find plus size costumes. Among the largely shaped outfits one can find fairies, geisha, goddesses, Red Riding Hoods, gladiators, pirates and werewolves. The younger theatre and Halloween fans are also likely to find interesting outfits here. The online stores offer almost all adult costumes adapted for teens and children with dozens of outfits especially designed for toddlers and babies. See the angel and fairy costumes for the most adorable getups you’ve ever seen for the little ones. Before buying a costume it is strongly recommended that you look at the sizing chart for the manufacture of the particular item as each of the manufactures make costumes differently. An experienced store staff will be able to give you information and answer questions on costume sizing.
Popular items from the TV, Movies & Comics sections, feature interesting outfits like Batman, Elvis, Harry Potter, characters from Star Wars, Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean, and comic book characters from DC or Marvel Comics such as Superman, Wonder Woman and Spiderman. If you are looking to be a little more risqué this season, have a look at the adult’s sexy costume section. There will be the perfect little number for those scandalous playboy bunnies at heart. These also make great Valentine’s or anniversary gifts for that special someone in your life.
A novelty that is becoming huge for online costume stores is that special item for your pet. Eccentric costumers can now purchase an outfit for their dog or cat, and they get to choose from about a dozen different ones. Imagine trick or treating this year with Rover the super dog or Fluffy the pirate cat. Now there’s something you don’t see every day.
All Halloween fans know costumes are not complete without accessories. These online masquerade shops contain quite a lot of accessories to top off your costume. In the accessory section you’ll find beards, wigs, jewelry, wings, horns, shoes, weapons, helmets, capes, robes, hats etc. In the makeup section you can find all sorts of makeup kits, face colors, blood, fangs, prosthetics and other stuff you might need for the Halloween season.
The larger online costume shops will also have products for magicians and clowns, where they can find dozens of prop articles from lights, smoke machines, puppets, magic hats, swindle card decks and some other stuff to put on a great show for children and adults alike.
Don’t’ miss out on the show stopping party decorations and supplies before checking out of the store. No party would be complete without a blood feast of holiday napkins, balloons, themed plates, cups and utensils. You will also be able to pick up other fantastic items like glow in the dark skeleton props, bats and spooky spider webs. So what are you waiting for, check out an online store for that perfect Halloween costume this season skipping the lineups and picked over items. Share in the Halloween spirit and type in that eerie URL to buy exactly what you are looking for… and in your size!
For more information about please visit http://www.costumecauldron.com/
Ever wonder why there are very few Halloween stores when looking for a costume? When you do find a store, they are usually full of people with a small picked over selection of products for sale. Avoid the frustration this year; be smart, take the following suggestion and shop early. The best way to select a unique costume for Halloween is to visit an online Halloween Shop. What better way to find a wide range and huge selection of high quality unearthly costumes, makeup, jewelry, accessories, decorations, party supplies, scary props, videos, tapes and even pumpkin carving patterns from the comfort of your own home. Shopping for Halloween items online is becoming increasingly popular.
Online costume stores offer quality costumes for every age group and size. Adult costumes featuring like various historical and cultural characters, clown costumes, French maid costumes, pirate costumes, funny costumes, witch costumes, devil costumes, vampire costumes, nurse costumes, cowboy costumes, the list is endless. What’s great about these stores is they can also be used for other holidays, not just for Halloween. Buy from the store when needing items for school plays, sporting events, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and for every holiday on the Calendar.
Costume stores strive to provide for those customers who are looking for a costume in all adult men & women sizes, even the hard to find plus size costumes. Among the largely shaped outfits one can find fairies, geisha, goddesses, Red Riding Hoods, gladiators, pirates and werewolves. The younger theatre and Halloween fans are also likely to find interesting outfits here. The online stores offer almost all adult costumes adapted for teens and children with dozens of outfits especially designed for toddlers and babies. See the angel and fairy costumes for the most adorable getups you’ve ever seen for the little ones. Before buying a costume it is strongly recommended that you look at the sizing chart for the manufacture of the particular item as each of the manufactures make costumes differently. An experienced store staff will be able to give you information and answer questions on costume sizing.
Popular items from the TV, Movies & Comics sections, feature interesting outfits like Batman, Elvis, Harry Potter, characters from Star Wars, Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean, and comic book characters from DC or Marvel Comics such as Superman, Wonder Woman and Spiderman. If you are looking to be a little more risqué this season, have a look at the adult’s sexy costume section. There will be the perfect little number for those scandalous playboy bunnies at heart. These also make great Valentine’s or anniversary gifts for that special someone in your life.
A novelty that is becoming huge for online costume stores is that special item for your pet. Eccentric costumers can now purchase an outfit for their dog or cat, and they get to choose from about a dozen different ones. Imagine trick or treating this year with Rover the super dog or Fluffy the pirate cat. Now there’s something you don’t see every day.
All Halloween fans know costumes are not complete without accessories. These online masquerade shops contain quite a lot of accessories to top off your costume. In the accessory section you’ll find beards, wigs, jewelry, wings, horns, shoes, weapons, helmets, capes, robes, hats etc. In the makeup section you can find all sorts of makeup kits, face colors, blood, fangs, prosthetics and other stuff you might need for the Halloween season.
The larger online costume shops will also have products for magicians and clowns, where they can find dozens of prop articles from lights, smoke machines, puppets, magic hats, swindle card decks and some other stuff to put on a great show for children and adults alike.
Don’t’ miss out on the show stopping party decorations and supplies before checking out of the store. No party would be complete without a blood feast of holiday napkins, balloons, themed plates, cups and utensils. You will also be able to pick up other fantastic items like glow in the dark skeleton props, bats and spooky spider webs. So what are you waiting for, check out an online store for that perfect Halloween costume this season skipping the lineups and picked over items. Share in the Halloween spirit and type in that eerie URL to buy exactly what you are looking for… and in your size!
For more information about please visit http://www.costumecauldron.com/
The Reality of The Date Rape Drug
by: Mardie Caldwell, C.O.A.P.
April is Sexual Assault Month
Each month more than ten women of all ages and backgrounds contact our Adoption Center with the same experience- they have been victims of a date rape drug, and are now pregnant … most of the time not knowing who got them pregnant. Just after Spring break, is a time when we see a peak in pregnancy. For many of these women a date rape drug was involved.
The U.S. Census, suggest that there may be 32,101 annual rape-related pregnancies among American women over the age of 18. With the adult pregnancy rate associated with rape estimated to be 4.7%.
Several college aged women have reported waking up in frat houses or apartments with no clothing on, finding themselves in strange surroundings with unknown people, or having actually been sexually assaulted while under the influence of a date rape drug.
Just recently our 18 yr old daughter shared her plans to celebrate her graduation with some girl friends in Cancun. Concerned with their safety and still wanting them to enjoy themselves. This prompted me to ask her- Do you and your friends know what rape drugs are and how they are used? Surprising she had heard very little on the topic, as most of the women that call us don't know either and wish someone had shared the following information.
Rohypnol is becoming the drug of choice for would-be rapist's .Most all predators target unsuspecting victims by slipping these illicit drugs into their beverages at parties, bars or nightclubs and dances. Rape drugs have the power to make one drink feel like six or more.
Laura a sophomore from Florida was one such call. Laura who attended a private party off campus recalls she was dancing when she feels it was when she left her beer that the perpetrator laced her drink. She recalls she only had one drink and started feeling kind of sick, then my memory got foggy, I started feeling drowsy, really dizziness, confused about where I was. My roommate was going to come with me to the party , but at the last minute she make other plans, I decided to go alone, which was my first mistake. She has no memory of what happened for the next 8 hours.
She woke up in a back room, in the club with bruises on her thighs, half naked and suspected that someone may have had sex with her, but couldn't remember who the person was or any other details. . She was hung over for days afterward.
Laurie blocked the whole incident from her mind and allowed a numbness to take over her feelings. Her grades fell and she found her mind wandering in class.
This is not uncommon for women that have been raped. This can be used as a defense mechanism against being overwhelmed with feelings or losing control and are common reactions to what has happened to them. Others become anxious or depressed.
In Laura's case she discovered 6 weeks later she was pregnant, she dropped out of college to have the baby and chose to have him adopted by a childless couple though our adoption center. "It was the only way I could make something good out of something so bad, I needed to do something positive and it wasn't the child's fault"
Laura recalls when she first found out how angry she was and scared, "I wouldn't have sex with a guy I didn't know. I have always been so careful of what I do and who I date. I was just so mad at myself for not being more careful, I didn't know if I had contracted a disease or HIV, it was very scary and embarrassing"
Toni was 19 yr old victim of a date rape drug in her freshman year in San Diego, during spring break. Assaulted at a party by a friend she met in a class and had known for almost a year. She kept saying "I considered him one of my best friends. He acted like he would protect me. I couldn't believe it. I couldn't believe it actually happened to me, even now.
My body has been violated, my trust in him as a friend has been shaken and I feel betrayed... I keep saying to myself, "I know him, and he's not a terrible person - so it must have been something I said to him or did that got me into this mess." I don't remember and I keep trying to remember what I did, or said - what happened that night- my own judgment has been stunned!
"I just couldn't go through with an abortion after what happened- as hard as the pregnancy was for me, I have always believed there are no mistakes and this baby didn't cause this and should not be the one that suffered, I had done the suffering, abortion wasn't the answer to my problem" It took some time, but I chose a family that I knew would love this child no matter what. Even through the rape something came good out of it. Not what I had ever dreamt of when I started college. "I have never regretted giving birth and giving her life" I still have trouble trusting people, but am working on it.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, "Date Rape", is one of the fastest growing drug-facilitated, sexual assault crimes in America today. Two thirds of GHB is ingested by people aged 18-25 years old. And Ecstasy abuse has increased 500 percent over a five-year period.
Studies confirm that acquaintance rape occurs more commonly among college students, predominantly first year students, than among any other age group. A recent large study, found one in four college women reported being the victim of rape or attempted rape and 84% of their assailants were boyfriends or acquaintances. Most victims remember nothing of the incident except that the feeling of being violated. The same study found that one in four college men disclosed to having used sexual aggression with women, and one in twelve to committing sexual assault of some kind. These men will slip the drug into a woman's drink without their knowledge, most often in combination with beer, and wait for the drug to incapacitate the woman before sexual assaulting her. The assailants would go to parties to look for easy targets and opportunities and wait until the victim is too out of it to say "no" and then will have sex with them. Many men do it just to take advantage of women sexually. !
The drug is often added to punch or other open container drinks at fraternity parties, college functions and social gatherings, where it is reportedly given to female party goers in hopes of lowered their inhibitions and facilitating in a potential sexual conquest for the assailant. High risk situations are clubs, parties, bars, and raves. Women contacting us are of all backgrounds and ages. Many are still in some shock over being pregnant and are not sure of the race of the man than raped them, and have little to share about the "father" of their child.
The date rape drugs are often referred to as the "alphabet drugs" called "E" or Ecstasy, "G" which can be either GHB or GBL and "K" or "Special K" which is Ketamine. For a while Rohypnol or "Roofies" was one of the most popular date rape drugs, but it has been replaced by GHB as the date rape drug of choice. The most popular date-rape drugs are (GHB) gamma hydroxybutyrate and ketamine. The "date rape" drug or "sexual assault" drugs is the street name for Rohypnol because it has been associated with date rape. GHB is produced in clear liquid, white powder, tablet, and capsule forms. It is also been known common as: Rophies, Roofies, Roachies, Forget Pill ,R2, roofenol, Roche, circles, La rocha, Rope, Trip-and-Fall , Liquid X, Liquid E, G-Juice, Rib, Mexican Valium, Roach-2, Roopies, and Ropies, Mind-Erasers, Liquid Ecstasy," Somatomax , Scoop, or Grievous Bodily Harm.
Ketamine Also known as "K", "Special K" or "Vitamin K". Commonly comes in a liquid form, but is also found in powder or pill forms.
Rohypnol is not legal in the US, nor is not manufactured or sold legally in the United States. It is used as a short-term treatment for insomnia in other countries. It is produced and sold legally by prescription in Europe and Latin America, then smuggled into the United States by mail or travelers smuggled it in. The drug is often distributed on the street in its original "bubble packaging" which creates a false appearance of legitimacy and makes it appear to be harmless and legal. Rohypnol tablets are white, scored on one side, with the word "ROCHE" and an encircled one or two indicating the dosage on the other. Rohypnol is a low-cost drug, often less than $5.00 per tablet. They are sold in sealed bubble pack of one or two mg doses.
Rohypnol can be addictive and cause physical dependence. It has physiological effects similar to Valium but is nearly ten times more potent. Withdrawal symptoms include headache, muscle pain, confusion, hallucinations and convulsions. Some women have had seizures occur up to a week after cessation of use.
Rohypnol can often be dissolved in a beverage, and is easily undetectable.
Ecstasy Also known as MDMA and is known on the street as Adam, XTC, E, M, Bean, and Roll. Ecstasy comes in a tablet that is often branded; a few samples are shown below:
In combination with alcohol, it can induce a blackout with memory loss and a decrease in resistance. Women as young as 13 throughout the country have reported being raped after being involuntarily sedated with Rohypnol. Roughly ten minutes after having the drug in her system, women report feeling dizzy and disoriented, at the same time feeling too hot or too cold or both, some become nauseated. Sedation starts appox. 25-30 minutes crest within two hours, with effects continue for up to eight hours. The drug has no taste or odor. Victims don't have any memories of what happened while under the drug's influence. The woman can appear extremely intoxicated, with slurred speech or experience difficulty speaking, gastrointestinal disturbances and urinary retention, poor coordination, swaying, blood-shot eyes, decreased blood pressure, and then she passes out....but without the odor of alcohol.
Vicky was 19 when she came up pregnant - she had no physical signals of rape, she woke up in her own bed and therefore had no reason to be concerned. She assumes that she had too much to drink although she doesn't remember the previous night's events; she thought a friend must have helped get her safely home. She was shocked to discover 2 months later that she was pregnant. I hadn't had sex for over a year, and bought three pregnancy tests before going to a clinic for a blood test. She chose to keep and raise her child with the help of her family. In here words "having the baby bought peace and healing to my life"
Alcohol and Rohypnol combination is intensified and very hazardous together. If a woman is drinking alcohol when the drug is slipped in her drink, the combination of, their effects on her memory and judgment are greatly impaired. A woman who become intoxicated on a combination of alcohol and Rohypnol often experience "blackouts" lasting eight to twenty-four hours following ingestion making her unable to resist a sexual attack. If combined with other drugs the results may lead to respiratory depression, aspiration, coma and even death. Possession of Rohypnol is punishable for up to three years in prison and a fine. Distribution and administration of this rape drug without the person's knowledge is punishable by twenty years in prison and a fine.
By taking the preventive measures to protect yourself, your friends, you can avoid becoming potential victims. Print this article out and give it to friends you know … it may save their lives.
Besides the worries of unprotected sex, sexually transmitted diseases she ….
Your best defense against rapists and rape drugs is awareness.
Here are a few helpful tips for staying aware, alert and safe:
" Be careful about accepting drinks from anyone you don't know well or long enough to trust. The best choice not to let anyone fix you a drink, Offer to mix the drink yourself. Carry the drink yourself.
" Don't share or exchange drinks with anyone.
" If you are accepting a drink, make sure it's from an unopened container and that you open it yourself.
" Never accept drinks from individuals you do not know and trust
" Do not drink from open containers at parties and accept drinks only from bartenders or servers, watch them open the can or pour- don't be distracted by conversation.
" If dancing, don't leave your drinks unattended. If you realize your drink has been left unattended, toss it out.
" Consider buying a specially designed drug testing coaster- see below to test your drink for the drug. They are low-cost and a smart choice
" Remember any kind of beverage can be drugged- there is no taste or smell.
" If possible bring your own drinks to parties when possible, Don't drink from a container that is being passed around
" If your drink tastes or looks differently than it should or tastes "funny" or salty, foamy, cloudy, or if it has residue in it throw it away
" Don't go to parties alone; travel in a group of people and stick together at a party. Look out not only for yourself, but keep an eye on your female friends.
" A really good idea is to not let your friends get too drunk or wasted. If they do party intensely, take them home, staying with them to make sure they are all right before leaving.
" Don't let your friend disappear and don't let them wander off with a member of the opposite sex, stay by their side. Don't leave with someone you do not know well or have just met.
" Don't put your drink down and leave it unattended, even to go to the restroom. Monitor your drink constantly.
" Refuse to drink from a punchbowl; this is a place where anything can be dropped in.
" Stay sober. Don't use drugs or alcohol; you need to have a clear head at all times.
" Assign a designated sober person when going out.
" Notify other female friends you know about the effects of this dangerous drug.
" Be observant to the behaviors and actions of your friends, trust your instincts.
" Listen for the street names of the drugs mentioned above.
" Keep a cell phone with you and charged up in the event you have a problem and need help.
Remember You Did Not Deserve What Happened To You
And the Assault Was Not Your Fault.
" If you think that you have been a victim, notify the authorities immediately if you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can file a police report.
" Get immediate medical attention. Call 911 or go to an emergency room. Request that a urine sample be taken to screen for the presence of date rape drugs.
" Preserve as much physical evidence as possible. Don't urinate, shower, bathe, douche, or throw away the clothing you were wearing during the assault. If possible, save any other materials that might provide evidence, such as the glass or can that held your drink.
" Call a crisis rape center for information and support.
All women are potential victims of sexual assault: regardless of there age, race, sexual preference, occupation or education. A woman can be assaulted by a stranger, by a friend, by an acquaintance, co-worker or relative.
Q. How will I feel after an assault?
There is no "correct" way to feel after an assault. Be aware that different people need to heal in their own ways. Some women may need to talk about the assault a number of times to heal; in working through a difficult experience- reliving the violation. Seeking a professional familiar with date rape can make a big difference in recovery.
Some women find their faith in God may be strained but find strength in keeping their faith and attending church or synagogue helpful. Other women find the answer may be involvement in activities to help forget. Then when they are better able to handle the facts and face them can they find peace to work through the pain.
Finding a qualified rape counselor or participating in a closed group counseling with other women, who understand what you are going through can be healing in itself. Many women who have been victims of the date rape drug have some or all of the following reactions:
" Anger and frustration
" Disbelief and Denial
" Guilt/ Self Blame
" Helplessness/ Confused
" Avoidance of Friends
" Feeling Paranoid
" Difficulty in Concentrating
" Change in Sleep Patterns
" Sexual Disinterest Or Change in Sexual Behavior
" Can't Stop Crying Or Can't Cry
" Inability To Cope With Ordinary Situations
" Problems With Trust
" Depression
" Frenzied involved in their Work
" Low Self-Esteem
" Reoccurring Nightmares
" Changed Alcohol Or Drug use
" Wanting To Forget, Escape OR never get out Of Bed
" Eating Everything Or Nothing At All
As you work through the healing process, keep these suggestions in mind:
" It is not your fault - you are not responsible for the unwanted sex.
" You are not the guilty party.
" Some people may try to make you feel responsible for what happened because of their own feelings of vulnerability or guilt.
" That you may have been intoxicated does not give anyone the right to assault you - nothing gives anyone that right.
" Acquaintance rape happens because the rapist fails to respect the victim's individual will, not because of irresistible arousal.
" A rapist acts without regard for the victim, so saying no or even physically resisting cannot always be enough to prevent the assault.
How to Help a Friend Who Has Been Assaulted….
" Let her make decisions. Offer to make phone calls for information, but don't take over for her. She has just had control taken away and needs to regain it.
" Don't touch her without first asking permission. Say, for example, "Would you like a hug?" or "Would you like to hold my hand?" A caring touch can help the victim but unwanted touching can be very uncomfortable or even threatening.
" Don't blame her. Questions like "Why did you go home with him?" What were you thinking of? Will only reinforce her sense of guilt or shame.
" Let her know she is safe, and that you won't violate her trust.
" Try to deal with your own reactions to the circumstances later. You may feel angry, helpless, confused, or violated yourself. Keep in mind that your friend probably feels all that and more, so seeing your reactions may not help her. Try to focus on her feelings. Later, when her immediate necessities are taken care, is the best time for you to take care of yourself and seek out a counselor. A sexual assault can be distressing for friends, land family members, as well.
Drug testing drink coaster Singles bars have never been risk free, but so-called date-rape drugs give you one more reason to be cautious. After a friend was attacked by a man who may have spiked her drink, Francisco Guerra developed a cardboard drink coaster that can identify two of the most popular date-rape drugs: gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and ketamine. Just place a drop of liquid on the coaster, and rub it in with your finger. If the spot turns blue, toss that cocktail. Fifteen million of these coasters have already been distributed; look for them at 7-Elevens
http://www.drinksafetech.com/ about 40¢ a coaster
More helpful Resources . . .
National Institute on Drug Abuse
Phone: (888) NIH-NIDA
http://www.nida.nih.gov/NIDAHome1.html
Rape recovery site
http://www.come.to/raperecovery
American Council for Drug Education
Phone: (800) 488-3784
http://www.acde.org
Hope for Healing
http://www.hopeforhealing.org/
Support for people conceived through rape and incest.
http://www.stigmatized.org
American Society of Addiction Medicine
Phone: (301) 656-3920
http://www.asam.org
Association for Medical Education and Research in Substance Abuse
Phone: (401) 444-1817
http://www.amersa.org
National Institute on Drug Abuse (Rohypnol and GHB)
http://165.112.78.61/Infofax/RohypnolGHB.html
State Directory for Offices of Victim Services
US Department of Justice
For assistance in accessing local Victim Services:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc/help/state.htm
includes a clickable US State Map
April is Sexual Assault Month
Each month more than ten women of all ages and backgrounds contact our Adoption Center with the same experience- they have been victims of a date rape drug, and are now pregnant … most of the time not knowing who got them pregnant. Just after Spring break, is a time when we see a peak in pregnancy. For many of these women a date rape drug was involved.
The U.S. Census, suggest that there may be 32,101 annual rape-related pregnancies among American women over the age of 18. With the adult pregnancy rate associated with rape estimated to be 4.7%.
Several college aged women have reported waking up in frat houses or apartments with no clothing on, finding themselves in strange surroundings with unknown people, or having actually been sexually assaulted while under the influence of a date rape drug.
Just recently our 18 yr old daughter shared her plans to celebrate her graduation with some girl friends in Cancun. Concerned with their safety and still wanting them to enjoy themselves. This prompted me to ask her- Do you and your friends know what rape drugs are and how they are used? Surprising she had heard very little on the topic, as most of the women that call us don't know either and wish someone had shared the following information.
Rohypnol is becoming the drug of choice for would-be rapist's .Most all predators target unsuspecting victims by slipping these illicit drugs into their beverages at parties, bars or nightclubs and dances. Rape drugs have the power to make one drink feel like six or more.
Laura a sophomore from Florida was one such call. Laura who attended a private party off campus recalls she was dancing when she feels it was when she left her beer that the perpetrator laced her drink. She recalls she only had one drink and started feeling kind of sick, then my memory got foggy, I started feeling drowsy, really dizziness, confused about where I was. My roommate was going to come with me to the party , but at the last minute she make other plans, I decided to go alone, which was my first mistake. She has no memory of what happened for the next 8 hours.
She woke up in a back room, in the club with bruises on her thighs, half naked and suspected that someone may have had sex with her, but couldn't remember who the person was or any other details. . She was hung over for days afterward.
Laurie blocked the whole incident from her mind and allowed a numbness to take over her feelings. Her grades fell and she found her mind wandering in class.
This is not uncommon for women that have been raped. This can be used as a defense mechanism against being overwhelmed with feelings or losing control and are common reactions to what has happened to them. Others become anxious or depressed.
In Laura's case she discovered 6 weeks later she was pregnant, she dropped out of college to have the baby and chose to have him adopted by a childless couple though our adoption center. "It was the only way I could make something good out of something so bad, I needed to do something positive and it wasn't the child's fault"
Laura recalls when she first found out how angry she was and scared, "I wouldn't have sex with a guy I didn't know. I have always been so careful of what I do and who I date. I was just so mad at myself for not being more careful, I didn't know if I had contracted a disease or HIV, it was very scary and embarrassing"
Toni was 19 yr old victim of a date rape drug in her freshman year in San Diego, during spring break. Assaulted at a party by a friend she met in a class and had known for almost a year. She kept saying "I considered him one of my best friends. He acted like he would protect me. I couldn't believe it. I couldn't believe it actually happened to me, even now.
My body has been violated, my trust in him as a friend has been shaken and I feel betrayed... I keep saying to myself, "I know him, and he's not a terrible person - so it must have been something I said to him or did that got me into this mess." I don't remember and I keep trying to remember what I did, or said - what happened that night- my own judgment has been stunned!
"I just couldn't go through with an abortion after what happened- as hard as the pregnancy was for me, I have always believed there are no mistakes and this baby didn't cause this and should not be the one that suffered, I had done the suffering, abortion wasn't the answer to my problem" It took some time, but I chose a family that I knew would love this child no matter what. Even through the rape something came good out of it. Not what I had ever dreamt of when I started college. "I have never regretted giving birth and giving her life" I still have trouble trusting people, but am working on it.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, "Date Rape", is one of the fastest growing drug-facilitated, sexual assault crimes in America today. Two thirds of GHB is ingested by people aged 18-25 years old. And Ecstasy abuse has increased 500 percent over a five-year period.
Studies confirm that acquaintance rape occurs more commonly among college students, predominantly first year students, than among any other age group. A recent large study, found one in four college women reported being the victim of rape or attempted rape and 84% of their assailants were boyfriends or acquaintances. Most victims remember nothing of the incident except that the feeling of being violated. The same study found that one in four college men disclosed to having used sexual aggression with women, and one in twelve to committing sexual assault of some kind. These men will slip the drug into a woman's drink without their knowledge, most often in combination with beer, and wait for the drug to incapacitate the woman before sexual assaulting her. The assailants would go to parties to look for easy targets and opportunities and wait until the victim is too out of it to say "no" and then will have sex with them. Many men do it just to take advantage of women sexually. !
The drug is often added to punch or other open container drinks at fraternity parties, college functions and social gatherings, where it is reportedly given to female party goers in hopes of lowered their inhibitions and facilitating in a potential sexual conquest for the assailant. High risk situations are clubs, parties, bars, and raves. Women contacting us are of all backgrounds and ages. Many are still in some shock over being pregnant and are not sure of the race of the man than raped them, and have little to share about the "father" of their child.
The date rape drugs are often referred to as the "alphabet drugs" called "E" or Ecstasy, "G" which can be either GHB or GBL and "K" or "Special K" which is Ketamine. For a while Rohypnol or "Roofies" was one of the most popular date rape drugs, but it has been replaced by GHB as the date rape drug of choice. The most popular date-rape drugs are (GHB) gamma hydroxybutyrate and ketamine. The "date rape" drug or "sexual assault" drugs is the street name for Rohypnol because it has been associated with date rape. GHB is produced in clear liquid, white powder, tablet, and capsule forms. It is also been known common as: Rophies, Roofies, Roachies, Forget Pill ,R2, roofenol, Roche, circles, La rocha, Rope, Trip-and-Fall , Liquid X, Liquid E, G-Juice, Rib, Mexican Valium, Roach-2, Roopies, and Ropies, Mind-Erasers, Liquid Ecstasy," Somatomax , Scoop, or Grievous Bodily Harm.
Ketamine Also known as "K", "Special K" or "Vitamin K". Commonly comes in a liquid form, but is also found in powder or pill forms.
Rohypnol is not legal in the US, nor is not manufactured or sold legally in the United States. It is used as a short-term treatment for insomnia in other countries. It is produced and sold legally by prescription in Europe and Latin America, then smuggled into the United States by mail or travelers smuggled it in. The drug is often distributed on the street in its original "bubble packaging" which creates a false appearance of legitimacy and makes it appear to be harmless and legal. Rohypnol tablets are white, scored on one side, with the word "ROCHE" and an encircled one or two indicating the dosage on the other. Rohypnol is a low-cost drug, often less than $5.00 per tablet. They are sold in sealed bubble pack of one or two mg doses.
Rohypnol can be addictive and cause physical dependence. It has physiological effects similar to Valium but is nearly ten times more potent. Withdrawal symptoms include headache, muscle pain, confusion, hallucinations and convulsions. Some women have had seizures occur up to a week after cessation of use.
Rohypnol can often be dissolved in a beverage, and is easily undetectable.
Ecstasy Also known as MDMA and is known on the street as Adam, XTC, E, M, Bean, and Roll. Ecstasy comes in a tablet that is often branded; a few samples are shown below:
In combination with alcohol, it can induce a blackout with memory loss and a decrease in resistance. Women as young as 13 throughout the country have reported being raped after being involuntarily sedated with Rohypnol. Roughly ten minutes after having the drug in her system, women report feeling dizzy and disoriented, at the same time feeling too hot or too cold or both, some become nauseated. Sedation starts appox. 25-30 minutes crest within two hours, with effects continue for up to eight hours. The drug has no taste or odor. Victims don't have any memories of what happened while under the drug's influence. The woman can appear extremely intoxicated, with slurred speech or experience difficulty speaking, gastrointestinal disturbances and urinary retention, poor coordination, swaying, blood-shot eyes, decreased blood pressure, and then she passes out....but without the odor of alcohol.
Vicky was 19 when she came up pregnant - she had no physical signals of rape, she woke up in her own bed and therefore had no reason to be concerned. She assumes that she had too much to drink although she doesn't remember the previous night's events; she thought a friend must have helped get her safely home. She was shocked to discover 2 months later that she was pregnant. I hadn't had sex for over a year, and bought three pregnancy tests before going to a clinic for a blood test. She chose to keep and raise her child with the help of her family. In here words "having the baby bought peace and healing to my life"
Alcohol and Rohypnol combination is intensified and very hazardous together. If a woman is drinking alcohol when the drug is slipped in her drink, the combination of, their effects on her memory and judgment are greatly impaired. A woman who become intoxicated on a combination of alcohol and Rohypnol often experience "blackouts" lasting eight to twenty-four hours following ingestion making her unable to resist a sexual attack. If combined with other drugs the results may lead to respiratory depression, aspiration, coma and even death. Possession of Rohypnol is punishable for up to three years in prison and a fine. Distribution and administration of this rape drug without the person's knowledge is punishable by twenty years in prison and a fine.
By taking the preventive measures to protect yourself, your friends, you can avoid becoming potential victims. Print this article out and give it to friends you know … it may save their lives.
Besides the worries of unprotected sex, sexually transmitted diseases she ….
Your best defense against rapists and rape drugs is awareness.
Here are a few helpful tips for staying aware, alert and safe:
" Be careful about accepting drinks from anyone you don't know well or long enough to trust. The best choice not to let anyone fix you a drink, Offer to mix the drink yourself. Carry the drink yourself.
" Don't share or exchange drinks with anyone.
" If you are accepting a drink, make sure it's from an unopened container and that you open it yourself.
" Never accept drinks from individuals you do not know and trust
" Do not drink from open containers at parties and accept drinks only from bartenders or servers, watch them open the can or pour- don't be distracted by conversation.
" If dancing, don't leave your drinks unattended. If you realize your drink has been left unattended, toss it out.
" Consider buying a specially designed drug testing coaster- see below to test your drink for the drug. They are low-cost and a smart choice
" Remember any kind of beverage can be drugged- there is no taste or smell.
" If possible bring your own drinks to parties when possible, Don't drink from a container that is being passed around
" If your drink tastes or looks differently than it should or tastes "funny" or salty, foamy, cloudy, or if it has residue in it throw it away
" Don't go to parties alone; travel in a group of people and stick together at a party. Look out not only for yourself, but keep an eye on your female friends.
" A really good idea is to not let your friends get too drunk or wasted. If they do party intensely, take them home, staying with them to make sure they are all right before leaving.
" Don't let your friend disappear and don't let them wander off with a member of the opposite sex, stay by their side. Don't leave with someone you do not know well or have just met.
" Don't put your drink down and leave it unattended, even to go to the restroom. Monitor your drink constantly.
" Refuse to drink from a punchbowl; this is a place where anything can be dropped in.
" Stay sober. Don't use drugs or alcohol; you need to have a clear head at all times.
" Assign a designated sober person when going out.
" Notify other female friends you know about the effects of this dangerous drug.
" Be observant to the behaviors and actions of your friends, trust your instincts.
" Listen for the street names of the drugs mentioned above.
" Keep a cell phone with you and charged up in the event you have a problem and need help.
Remember You Did Not Deserve What Happened To You
And the Assault Was Not Your Fault.
" If you think that you have been a victim, notify the authorities immediately if you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can file a police report.
" Get immediate medical attention. Call 911 or go to an emergency room. Request that a urine sample be taken to screen for the presence of date rape drugs.
" Preserve as much physical evidence as possible. Don't urinate, shower, bathe, douche, or throw away the clothing you were wearing during the assault. If possible, save any other materials that might provide evidence, such as the glass or can that held your drink.
" Call a crisis rape center for information and support.
All women are potential victims of sexual assault: regardless of there age, race, sexual preference, occupation or education. A woman can be assaulted by a stranger, by a friend, by an acquaintance, co-worker or relative.
Q. How will I feel after an assault?
There is no "correct" way to feel after an assault. Be aware that different people need to heal in their own ways. Some women may need to talk about the assault a number of times to heal; in working through a difficult experience- reliving the violation. Seeking a professional familiar with date rape can make a big difference in recovery.
Some women find their faith in God may be strained but find strength in keeping their faith and attending church or synagogue helpful. Other women find the answer may be involvement in activities to help forget. Then when they are better able to handle the facts and face them can they find peace to work through the pain.
Finding a qualified rape counselor or participating in a closed group counseling with other women, who understand what you are going through can be healing in itself. Many women who have been victims of the date rape drug have some or all of the following reactions:
" Anger and frustration
" Disbelief and Denial
" Guilt/ Self Blame
" Helplessness/ Confused
" Avoidance of Friends
" Feeling Paranoid
" Difficulty in Concentrating
" Change in Sleep Patterns
" Sexual Disinterest Or Change in Sexual Behavior
" Can't Stop Crying Or Can't Cry
" Inability To Cope With Ordinary Situations
" Problems With Trust
" Depression
" Frenzied involved in their Work
" Low Self-Esteem
" Reoccurring Nightmares
" Changed Alcohol Or Drug use
" Wanting To Forget, Escape OR never get out Of Bed
" Eating Everything Or Nothing At All
As you work through the healing process, keep these suggestions in mind:
" It is not your fault - you are not responsible for the unwanted sex.
" You are not the guilty party.
" Some people may try to make you feel responsible for what happened because of their own feelings of vulnerability or guilt.
" That you may have been intoxicated does not give anyone the right to assault you - nothing gives anyone that right.
" Acquaintance rape happens because the rapist fails to respect the victim's individual will, not because of irresistible arousal.
" A rapist acts without regard for the victim, so saying no or even physically resisting cannot always be enough to prevent the assault.
How to Help a Friend Who Has Been Assaulted….
" Let her make decisions. Offer to make phone calls for information, but don't take over for her. She has just had control taken away and needs to regain it.
" Don't touch her without first asking permission. Say, for example, "Would you like a hug?" or "Would you like to hold my hand?" A caring touch can help the victim but unwanted touching can be very uncomfortable or even threatening.
" Don't blame her. Questions like "Why did you go home with him?" What were you thinking of? Will only reinforce her sense of guilt or shame.
" Let her know she is safe, and that you won't violate her trust.
" Try to deal with your own reactions to the circumstances later. You may feel angry, helpless, confused, or violated yourself. Keep in mind that your friend probably feels all that and more, so seeing your reactions may not help her. Try to focus on her feelings. Later, when her immediate necessities are taken care, is the best time for you to take care of yourself and seek out a counselor. A sexual assault can be distressing for friends, land family members, as well.
Drug testing drink coaster Singles bars have never been risk free, but so-called date-rape drugs give you one more reason to be cautious. After a friend was attacked by a man who may have spiked her drink, Francisco Guerra developed a cardboard drink coaster that can identify two of the most popular date-rape drugs: gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and ketamine. Just place a drop of liquid on the coaster, and rub it in with your finger. If the spot turns blue, toss that cocktail. Fifteen million of these coasters have already been distributed; look for them at 7-Elevens
http://www.drinksafetech.com/ about 40¢ a coaster
More helpful Resources . . .
National Institute on Drug Abuse
Phone: (888) NIH-NIDA
http://www.nida.nih.gov/NIDAHome1.html
Rape recovery site
http://www.come.to/raperecovery
American Council for Drug Education
Phone: (800) 488-3784
http://www.acde.org
Hope for Healing
http://www.hopeforhealing.org/
Support for people conceived through rape and incest.
http://www.stigmatized.org
American Society of Addiction Medicine
Phone: (301) 656-3920
http://www.asam.org
Association for Medical Education and Research in Substance Abuse
Phone: (401) 444-1817
http://www.amersa.org
National Institute on Drug Abuse (Rohypnol and GHB)
http://165.112.78.61/Infofax/RohypnolGHB.html
State Directory for Offices of Victim Services
US Department of Justice
For assistance in accessing local Victim Services:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc/help/state.htm
includes a clickable US State Map
Out of Control
by: Ken Mossman
Anyone who's spent time around me knows that I wear my love of winter on my arm. Not my sleeve, mind you, my arm. After all, sleeves can be taken off and put back on. This, however, is no mere article of clothing - it's more like a tattoo I've worn proudly and publicly since I was a kid. As I approach the half-century mark - T-minus thirteen months and counting - the snow-bug shows no sign of releasing it's bite, and I don't mind one little bit.
There's nothing quite like the feeling of a perfectly arced ski turn at high-speed. It's a sensation that peels back the layers of the day-to-day to reveal and tap into the very essence of my being. At some level, the ego drops away and, in the cold air and clear, bright sunlight of the season, skiing becomes a spiritual pursuit. As with so many experiences that others would perhaps term "transcendent," it's a feeling that words can't hope to describe, that the mind can't quite wrap itself around, and the body, in all it's wisdom, never, ever forgets...
Lest I wander too far afield of my story, let me say that snowy spiritual quests are not what I really intended to tell you about this month, so back on track I go...
Though the best of winter took it's own sweet time arriving, I've managed to get in a number of good days of skiing so far, some alone, some with friends, with my Dad, and several with my son, Cai.
I've been impressed with Cai's progress and his ability to learn. Over the holiday week, I watched him improve - quite literally - with every run. While he gets a bit nervous on steeper trails or where exposure is involved, on the gentler terrain he really enjoys, he looks great!
I see what I would consider "healthy fear" at work in the places he's less comfortable. The more relaxed he gets and the more fun he has, the more likely he is to challenge himself without my input, so I'm not worried. (Exposure, for the uninitiated, is the experience of being someplace where one is open - exposed - to long drops and/or a great distance. Typically, skiers new to exposure fear that if they allow themselves to let go of the side of the mountain, they will fall all the way to the horizon.)
All this may sound incredibly obvious, and parts of it have been hard lessons to learn.
In years past, I dragged Cai down a few trails he wasn't that interested in, and it wasn't a whole lot of fun for either one of us.
Make no mistake; it was much tougher on him... After all, I was only inconvenienced while he was, in his efforts to please me, terrorized.
My plan for this year was to give him more say in running our ski days: choosing trails, when to stop for lunch, that sort of thing.
One day several weeks ago, we were on the hill having a grand old time - or so I thought. Cai said that he wanted to follow me, and much to my surprise he was right on my tails for most of the afternoon. Every time I turned around, there he was, keeping pace and matching me, as best I could tell, turn for turn. I was astounded! How had he gotten that fast in such a short amount of time? What was he putting in his oatmeal when my back was turned..?
For our last run of the day, I wanted to watch him from behind to get a better idea of what he was up to. I said, "You go ahead. I'll follow you down this time so I can watch you." Off he went.
He made a few turns, gradually decreasing the arc of each one, until he was all but straight-lining. I pushed on as fast as I could to catch up and tell him to slow down. I never got to deliver my message...
When I had drawn to within about 20 yards of him, Cai went buns-over-tea-kettle, losing his skis and one pole in the process. By the time I gathered up his gear and reached him, he was laying in a snowy heap on the ground, doing that variety of crying that keeps parents guessing when the first inhalation is going to come.
He gradually got to his feet, clearly rattled, every available open space between his helmet and goggles, not to mention his neck, ears, and the cuffs of his jacket, packed with snow. As I was clearing the snow from his helmet and gloves and opening his bindings, he slowly began to regain his composure.
"Wow, Cai," I said, kneeling in front of him and keeping an eye out for on-coming skiers, "you were going really fast. I think you were out of control..."
He looked back at me through teary, reddened eyes and said, "I've... been... out... of... control... all... day... trying to keep... up... with... you!"
Enlightenment comes in strange, small packages at times. And as I, the former racer, racing coach and ski instructor, knelt in front of my weeping, snow-packed kid in the flat light of a late Saturday afternoon, it occurred to me that I had been basking in delusion every time I looked over my shoulder earlier in the day. Cai wasn't keeping up with me because he wanted to; he was keeping up with me because he thought it was what he was supposed to.
While I told him how well he was doing over and over again, I didn't think to ask him how he was feeling or how he thought he was doing...
After putting Cai back together, we rested for a moment. I apologized for not being more curious about what was actually going on, and he thanked me. Then we made an agreement: We would both slow down and pay more attention to what we were doing... and to one another.
With the exception of one run last week when I led Cai down a twisty, double fall-line trail he deemed too uncomfortably odd and scary, we've kept our word to one another.
We've had several days on the hill since that last crash, and an odd thing has happened: He's gotten faster again, only now he's skiing in control, and smiling at the bottom of each run. On the way up the lift
I ask him, "How are you doing?"
"Good," he says, grinning behind his goggles, "I wish these lifts were faster!"
"Me too," I answer, wishing we could get to the top quickly, just so we have more time to go slow. "Me too..."
Anyone who's spent time around me knows that I wear my love of winter on my arm. Not my sleeve, mind you, my arm. After all, sleeves can be taken off and put back on. This, however, is no mere article of clothing - it's more like a tattoo I've worn proudly and publicly since I was a kid. As I approach the half-century mark - T-minus thirteen months and counting - the snow-bug shows no sign of releasing it's bite, and I don't mind one little bit.
There's nothing quite like the feeling of a perfectly arced ski turn at high-speed. It's a sensation that peels back the layers of the day-to-day to reveal and tap into the very essence of my being. At some level, the ego drops away and, in the cold air and clear, bright sunlight of the season, skiing becomes a spiritual pursuit. As with so many experiences that others would perhaps term "transcendent," it's a feeling that words can't hope to describe, that the mind can't quite wrap itself around, and the body, in all it's wisdom, never, ever forgets...
Lest I wander too far afield of my story, let me say that snowy spiritual quests are not what I really intended to tell you about this month, so back on track I go...
Though the best of winter took it's own sweet time arriving, I've managed to get in a number of good days of skiing so far, some alone, some with friends, with my Dad, and several with my son, Cai.
I've been impressed with Cai's progress and his ability to learn. Over the holiday week, I watched him improve - quite literally - with every run. While he gets a bit nervous on steeper trails or where exposure is involved, on the gentler terrain he really enjoys, he looks great!
I see what I would consider "healthy fear" at work in the places he's less comfortable. The more relaxed he gets and the more fun he has, the more likely he is to challenge himself without my input, so I'm not worried. (Exposure, for the uninitiated, is the experience of being someplace where one is open - exposed - to long drops and/or a great distance. Typically, skiers new to exposure fear that if they allow themselves to let go of the side of the mountain, they will fall all the way to the horizon.)
All this may sound incredibly obvious, and parts of it have been hard lessons to learn.
In years past, I dragged Cai down a few trails he wasn't that interested in, and it wasn't a whole lot of fun for either one of us.
Make no mistake; it was much tougher on him... After all, I was only inconvenienced while he was, in his efforts to please me, terrorized.
My plan for this year was to give him more say in running our ski days: choosing trails, when to stop for lunch, that sort of thing.
One day several weeks ago, we were on the hill having a grand old time - or so I thought. Cai said that he wanted to follow me, and much to my surprise he was right on my tails for most of the afternoon. Every time I turned around, there he was, keeping pace and matching me, as best I could tell, turn for turn. I was astounded! How had he gotten that fast in such a short amount of time? What was he putting in his oatmeal when my back was turned..?
For our last run of the day, I wanted to watch him from behind to get a better idea of what he was up to. I said, "You go ahead. I'll follow you down this time so I can watch you." Off he went.
He made a few turns, gradually decreasing the arc of each one, until he was all but straight-lining. I pushed on as fast as I could to catch up and tell him to slow down. I never got to deliver my message...
When I had drawn to within about 20 yards of him, Cai went buns-over-tea-kettle, losing his skis and one pole in the process. By the time I gathered up his gear and reached him, he was laying in a snowy heap on the ground, doing that variety of crying that keeps parents guessing when the first inhalation is going to come.
He gradually got to his feet, clearly rattled, every available open space between his helmet and goggles, not to mention his neck, ears, and the cuffs of his jacket, packed with snow. As I was clearing the snow from his helmet and gloves and opening his bindings, he slowly began to regain his composure.
"Wow, Cai," I said, kneeling in front of him and keeping an eye out for on-coming skiers, "you were going really fast. I think you were out of control..."
He looked back at me through teary, reddened eyes and said, "I've... been... out... of... control... all... day... trying to keep... up... with... you!"
Enlightenment comes in strange, small packages at times. And as I, the former racer, racing coach and ski instructor, knelt in front of my weeping, snow-packed kid in the flat light of a late Saturday afternoon, it occurred to me that I had been basking in delusion every time I looked over my shoulder earlier in the day. Cai wasn't keeping up with me because he wanted to; he was keeping up with me because he thought it was what he was supposed to.
While I told him how well he was doing over and over again, I didn't think to ask him how he was feeling or how he thought he was doing...
After putting Cai back together, we rested for a moment. I apologized for not being more curious about what was actually going on, and he thanked me. Then we made an agreement: We would both slow down and pay more attention to what we were doing... and to one another.
With the exception of one run last week when I led Cai down a twisty, double fall-line trail he deemed too uncomfortably odd and scary, we've kept our word to one another.
We've had several days on the hill since that last crash, and an odd thing has happened: He's gotten faster again, only now he's skiing in control, and smiling at the bottom of each run. On the way up the lift
I ask him, "How are you doing?"
"Good," he says, grinning behind his goggles, "I wish these lifts were faster!"
"Me too," I answer, wishing we could get to the top quickly, just so we have more time to go slow. "Me too..."
Adolescent Obesity - The Blame Game
by: Steve Ruprecht
The prevalence of weight issues among the tweenage generation has prompted debates between schools, parents, food giants and kids. The blame game is often played while our youth continue to tip the scales. This hot topic of Adolescent Obesity is the subject for the current episode of Teen Talk, an online video commentary feature hosted by former Nickelodeon hostess Chloe Dolandis. Teen Talk is a subsidiary of Kidfluence, an up-and-coming television show and Web site for today's youth, tackling topics critical to the development of today's teenagers.
Obesity used to be looked at as only an adult issue, but with the rising statistics of overweight kids, this is a far greater problem than imagined. The fact that more kids today are having radical gastric bypass surgery only reinforces the necessity to explore this issue. Schools often serve as the scapegoat because of their documented unhealthy offering of food choices. Yet parents can set bad examples themselves by indulging in junk food and failing to closely monitor their child's eating habits. At such impressionable years such as the tweenage ones, the responsibility for maintaing healthy lifestyles for our kids is a collaborative effort.
In this current Teen Talk episode, Chloe presents the facts about adolescent obesity, analyzes what parents, schools and kids should be doing and offers a few tips. Teen Talk, which caters to today's technology savvy teenagers, is meant to be highly interactive. Viewers are encouraged to send e-mail and comments on the blog (www.teentalkblog.tv).
Teen Talk is now airing on the Internet via the web sites Kidfluence.tv, YouTube, Google Video, Yahoo Video and myspace.
The prevalence of weight issues among the tweenage generation has prompted debates between schools, parents, food giants and kids. The blame game is often played while our youth continue to tip the scales. This hot topic of Adolescent Obesity is the subject for the current episode of Teen Talk, an online video commentary feature hosted by former Nickelodeon hostess Chloe Dolandis. Teen Talk is a subsidiary of Kidfluence, an up-and-coming television show and Web site for today's youth, tackling topics critical to the development of today's teenagers.
Obesity used to be looked at as only an adult issue, but with the rising statistics of overweight kids, this is a far greater problem than imagined. The fact that more kids today are having radical gastric bypass surgery only reinforces the necessity to explore this issue. Schools often serve as the scapegoat because of their documented unhealthy offering of food choices. Yet parents can set bad examples themselves by indulging in junk food and failing to closely monitor their child's eating habits. At such impressionable years such as the tweenage ones, the responsibility for maintaing healthy lifestyles for our kids is a collaborative effort.
In this current Teen Talk episode, Chloe presents the facts about adolescent obesity, analyzes what parents, schools and kids should be doing and offers a few tips. Teen Talk, which caters to today's technology savvy teenagers, is meant to be highly interactive. Viewers are encouraged to send e-mail and comments on the blog (www.teentalkblog.tv).
Teen Talk is now airing on the Internet via the web sites Kidfluence.tv, YouTube, Google Video, Yahoo Video and myspace.
Fourth Of July Craft Ideas For Kids
by: Alice Seba
Independence Day is a fun summer holiday, full of festivals, fireworks, and other activities. It is also a tribute to the beginnings of our country. Fourth of July crafts are an entertaining way for kids to commemorate the anniversary of our independence. Here are some ideas.
Windsocks are a fun and attractive outdoor decoration. They are also easy to make. All you need is an oatmeal box, some white and blue construction paper, red and white streamers, scissors, and glue. Cut the end out of the oatmeal box and cover it with blue construction paper, and cut out stars from the white construction paper to glue on. Then cut some red and white streamers to the same length, and glue them to one end. Tie some string to the other end for hanging.
Girls can make themselves some patriotic hair accessories for the occasion. Just buy some plain barrettes, red, white, or blue yarn, and patriotic beads or buttons from the craft store. Wrap yarn tightly around the barrette, and glue each end to the back. Then attach some beads or buttons, or make a bow out of some more yarn for a simple but pretty hair bow.
Fireworks are a favorite on the Fourth of July. You can make a unique fireworks picture with some crayons and white paper. First, use lots of different colors to make a pattern all over the paper. Color darkly. Then get a black crayon, and color over the whole piece of paper darkly. Use a paper clip to scratch off a fireworks design, and you will have a colorful picture of fireworks in the night sky.
Fourth of July parades are great, but think of the fun the kids could have by having their own parade! They can decorate their bikes with red, white, and blue crepe paper and tape. Then they will need some patriotic costumes. If they have some holiday-appropriate clothes that’s great, but if not they can easily paint some stars and stripes on an old t-shirt with fabric paint. Make your own flags and signs with paper and markers. Gather up some toy or makeshift musical instruments, stick horses, and a few flags, and you can have an awesome parade right in your own backyard.
The Fourth of July is a great time for summer crafts. These are only a few of the many items that kids could make for the occasion. Once you get them started, they will likely think of many more creative ideas on their own. Make sure you have the basics such as construction paper, scissors, glue, art supplies, and some craft sticks on hand, and you’ll be surprised what they will come up with.
Independence Day is a fun summer holiday, full of festivals, fireworks, and other activities. It is also a tribute to the beginnings of our country. Fourth of July crafts are an entertaining way for kids to commemorate the anniversary of our independence. Here are some ideas.
Windsocks are a fun and attractive outdoor decoration. They are also easy to make. All you need is an oatmeal box, some white and blue construction paper, red and white streamers, scissors, and glue. Cut the end out of the oatmeal box and cover it with blue construction paper, and cut out stars from the white construction paper to glue on. Then cut some red and white streamers to the same length, and glue them to one end. Tie some string to the other end for hanging.
Girls can make themselves some patriotic hair accessories for the occasion. Just buy some plain barrettes, red, white, or blue yarn, and patriotic beads or buttons from the craft store. Wrap yarn tightly around the barrette, and glue each end to the back. Then attach some beads or buttons, or make a bow out of some more yarn for a simple but pretty hair bow.
Fireworks are a favorite on the Fourth of July. You can make a unique fireworks picture with some crayons and white paper. First, use lots of different colors to make a pattern all over the paper. Color darkly. Then get a black crayon, and color over the whole piece of paper darkly. Use a paper clip to scratch off a fireworks design, and you will have a colorful picture of fireworks in the night sky.
Fourth of July parades are great, but think of the fun the kids could have by having their own parade! They can decorate their bikes with red, white, and blue crepe paper and tape. Then they will need some patriotic costumes. If they have some holiday-appropriate clothes that’s great, but if not they can easily paint some stars and stripes on an old t-shirt with fabric paint. Make your own flags and signs with paper and markers. Gather up some toy or makeshift musical instruments, stick horses, and a few flags, and you can have an awesome parade right in your own backyard.
The Fourth of July is a great time for summer crafts. These are only a few of the many items that kids could make for the occasion. Once you get them started, they will likely think of many more creative ideas on their own. Make sure you have the basics such as construction paper, scissors, glue, art supplies, and some craft sticks on hand, and you’ll be surprised what they will come up with.
Tuxedos and Prom Dresses
by: Josie Lee
Getting ready for the Prom can be quite expensive but the biggest cost is generally in relation to tuxedos and prom dresses. Most of the tuxedos are only rented for the evening but the cost of a good quality one still isn’t very cheap. It is important to get fitted for a tuxedo early to ensure the best fit. You also want to make sure you get to order exactly what you want, not what is left over. You will be fitted at the rental shop to make sure the pant length and the jacket fit well. Once your tuxedo comes in you need to go in and try it on. This way any necessary alternations can be done before the Prom.
You can select traditional black or be unique and choose white. In most cases shoe rental is included with the cost. It is important to know the color of the dress the date will be wearing so the correct color of tie and cummerbund can be ordered as well. If you don’t have this information you should still order your tuxedo early and then provide that information at a later date.
Prom dresses are expensive, but what girl doesn’t want to feel like a princess on the night of her Prom? They are available in a variety of colors, styles, and made from different materials. Prom dresses seem to go in trends so it is hard to purchase one the year before on sale for the next year in an effort to save money. Some years the trend is for short prom dresses that sparkle. Other types the style is a long flowing dress.
It is important to find the right prom dress to fit your particular body shape. Even if you absolutely love the style of a dress you want to pass it up if it isn’t a correct fit. You don’t want to feel self conscious when you wear it. Make sure the prom dress you pick accents your features and minimize those you aren’t comfortable with. For example if you don’t find your arms attractive stay away from sleeveless dresses. If you think you legs are too short look at the selection of long prom dresses.
It's important to shop early for prom dresses, so you can take advantage of the best selection. Look at many different stores so you can compare styles and prices. If you find the perfect Prom dress early on ask the sales clerk to hold it for you. This way you can continue looking and come back if it is your final selection. After a day of trying on several Prom dresses, it can be hard to remember how all of them looked. A great solution is to have a friend or parent go with you and take a picture of you in each of them you really like. You can have the film developed at a one hour center or use a digital camera.
Getting ready for Prom can be a very exciting time but also expensive. Plan ahead and know the budget you have to cover all of your Prom items. Make sure you shop early for tuxedos and Prom dresses so you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for as well as fits your budget.
Josie Lee specializes in custom formal wear. A perfect tuxedo is a neccessity to match the perfect formal dresses. For more information please visit http://www.tuxtuxedos.com/ and http://www.newpromdresses.info/.
Getting ready for the Prom can be quite expensive but the biggest cost is generally in relation to tuxedos and prom dresses. Most of the tuxedos are only rented for the evening but the cost of a good quality one still isn’t very cheap. It is important to get fitted for a tuxedo early to ensure the best fit. You also want to make sure you get to order exactly what you want, not what is left over. You will be fitted at the rental shop to make sure the pant length and the jacket fit well. Once your tuxedo comes in you need to go in and try it on. This way any necessary alternations can be done before the Prom.
You can select traditional black or be unique and choose white. In most cases shoe rental is included with the cost. It is important to know the color of the dress the date will be wearing so the correct color of tie and cummerbund can be ordered as well. If you don’t have this information you should still order your tuxedo early and then provide that information at a later date.
Prom dresses are expensive, but what girl doesn’t want to feel like a princess on the night of her Prom? They are available in a variety of colors, styles, and made from different materials. Prom dresses seem to go in trends so it is hard to purchase one the year before on sale for the next year in an effort to save money. Some years the trend is for short prom dresses that sparkle. Other types the style is a long flowing dress.
It is important to find the right prom dress to fit your particular body shape. Even if you absolutely love the style of a dress you want to pass it up if it isn’t a correct fit. You don’t want to feel self conscious when you wear it. Make sure the prom dress you pick accents your features and minimize those you aren’t comfortable with. For example if you don’t find your arms attractive stay away from sleeveless dresses. If you think you legs are too short look at the selection of long prom dresses.
It's important to shop early for prom dresses, so you can take advantage of the best selection. Look at many different stores so you can compare styles and prices. If you find the perfect Prom dress early on ask the sales clerk to hold it for you. This way you can continue looking and come back if it is your final selection. After a day of trying on several Prom dresses, it can be hard to remember how all of them looked. A great solution is to have a friend or parent go with you and take a picture of you in each of them you really like. You can have the film developed at a one hour center or use a digital camera.
Getting ready for Prom can be a very exciting time but also expensive. Plan ahead and know the budget you have to cover all of your Prom items. Make sure you shop early for tuxedos and Prom dresses so you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for as well as fits your budget.
Josie Lee specializes in custom formal wear. A perfect tuxedo is a neccessity to match the perfect formal dresses. For more information please visit http://www.tuxtuxedos.com/ and http://www.newpromdresses.info/.
Xbox 360 Bundles – The Only Game In Town For A Serious Gamer
by: David Hunt
Now, we all know that the Xbox 360 is the best gaming system right (or at least, you should know that if you like gaming!)? But, how many of you know that one of the best ways to get on board is to explore the awesome world of Xbox 360 bundles? You don’t know what a bundle is… really? Well, read on as I unravel the great opportunities that Xbox 360 bundles offer.
First things first: definition. A bundle is basically a number of different accessories, games etc that are offered together with the console. There are literally tons of bundles – just type in the keyword “Xbox 360 bundles” you’re your search engine and see the number of results you’ll get – plenty.
Xbox 360 bundles can be offered on eBay where some guy just put some something together to sell or they can actually be professionally marketed as a special offer. Whatever your preferences, and your budget, I guarantee that you will find something that will suit you.
And you know what, that’s the beauty of a bundle. If you like fantasy games, and that’s all you want to play, then maybe you’ll consider buying an Xbox 360 fantasy bundle. That way you get everything you need to get gaming straight away without having to start hunting for games and accessories. You see the attraction?
There are some hard core popular Xbox 360 bundles, some of which I’ll be happy to detail for you.
Sportaholics who like their sport sitting on the couch with a controller in hand would probably appreciate the Xbox 360 Core Sports Bundle. This is a really cool bundle that offers a pretty awesome range of titles that will really immerse you in your favorite sporting titles. This is also probably one of the most popular a Xbox 360 bundles around as well, due to the fact that sport titles are among the most popular genres around.
Another popular bundle is the Xbox 360 Ultimate bundle. This is basically on sale like everywhere and offers almost everything you need to take your gaming to another level. You get all the basics you expect as well as optionals like a HDAV Cable, a 20 GB Hard Drive, a Headset (pretty cool by the way – how does live chat sound while gaming?), your Ethernet Card and a 30 day FREE trial for Xbox Live. Pretty cool I reckon.
Then of course at the other end of the scale you have John Doe’s customized Xbox 360 bundle, only available on eBay and specially designed in his bedroom! And you know what, sometimes those are the best Xbox bundles you can get – put together by serious gamers, not some faceless corporation, so at least you know that you are getting a tried and tested bundle. I personally have bought some of my best Xbox 360 bundles right off eBay.
So there you go – Xbox 360 bundles are probably the best way to get all that you are looking for in a gaming system without the hassle, and of course for less money than you would pay if you bought every component separately, not to mention the time you can save – time that could be spent gaming!
Xbox 360 bundles – you gotta love ‘em!
Now, we all know that the Xbox 360 is the best gaming system right (or at least, you should know that if you like gaming!)? But, how many of you know that one of the best ways to get on board is to explore the awesome world of Xbox 360 bundles? You don’t know what a bundle is… really? Well, read on as I unravel the great opportunities that Xbox 360 bundles offer.
First things first: definition. A bundle is basically a number of different accessories, games etc that are offered together with the console. There are literally tons of bundles – just type in the keyword “Xbox 360 bundles” you’re your search engine and see the number of results you’ll get – plenty.
Xbox 360 bundles can be offered on eBay where some guy just put some something together to sell or they can actually be professionally marketed as a special offer. Whatever your preferences, and your budget, I guarantee that you will find something that will suit you.
And you know what, that’s the beauty of a bundle. If you like fantasy games, and that’s all you want to play, then maybe you’ll consider buying an Xbox 360 fantasy bundle. That way you get everything you need to get gaming straight away without having to start hunting for games and accessories. You see the attraction?
There are some hard core popular Xbox 360 bundles, some of which I’ll be happy to detail for you.
Sportaholics who like their sport sitting on the couch with a controller in hand would probably appreciate the Xbox 360 Core Sports Bundle. This is a really cool bundle that offers a pretty awesome range of titles that will really immerse you in your favorite sporting titles. This is also probably one of the most popular a Xbox 360 bundles around as well, due to the fact that sport titles are among the most popular genres around.
Another popular bundle is the Xbox 360 Ultimate bundle. This is basically on sale like everywhere and offers almost everything you need to take your gaming to another level. You get all the basics you expect as well as optionals like a HDAV Cable, a 20 GB Hard Drive, a Headset (pretty cool by the way – how does live chat sound while gaming?), your Ethernet Card and a 30 day FREE trial for Xbox Live. Pretty cool I reckon.
Then of course at the other end of the scale you have John Doe’s customized Xbox 360 bundle, only available on eBay and specially designed in his bedroom! And you know what, sometimes those are the best Xbox bundles you can get – put together by serious gamers, not some faceless corporation, so at least you know that you are getting a tried and tested bundle. I personally have bought some of my best Xbox 360 bundles right off eBay.
So there you go – Xbox 360 bundles are probably the best way to get all that you are looking for in a gaming system without the hassle, and of course for less money than you would pay if you bought every component separately, not to mention the time you can save – time that could be spent gaming!
Xbox 360 bundles – you gotta love ‘em!
Dance Shoes And Apparel
by: Ms. CiCi
Dancing! - For many dancing expressions is one of life’s natural ways of expressing emotions. For others dance must be learned. And, alas, others seemingly have no rhythm at all; no amount of dance lessons can help! We all have various gifts and giftings.
For those who do dance it is also a given understanding that the dance clothes that we wear all show what we feel. There are many different styles of dancing in the world: tap, irish step, western, barn dancing, country music, swing, clogging, foxtrot, ballroom and waltz just to name a few.
And with these many different styles of dance are their individual styles of clothing for each dance. The clothes that are worn for a ballroom dancing event is of a more formal wear. Dance clothes for swing and the tango are informal and vibrant in looks. The infamous "10 Gallon Hat" is often worn in western, country or barn dances.
Since dancing is an activity that uses our bodies to express ourselves, we need to choose the different styles of dance with care. This also means that you need to think about the type of dance apparel that will reflect the story that your dance is telling. So when the time comes for you to choose clothes for a dancing event you should see what styles are acceptable in the dancing field.
The type of dance apparel can sometimes be dictated by the event that you are participating in. An example of this is the dance apparel that is worn for ceremonies and traditional dances. In these events the type of dance apparel is ones that have been traditionally used for hundreds of years. As an example, in Eastern countries a special stylized form of dance apparel is used in the performance of demon exorcizing dances. Here the costume or dance apparel that the dancer chooses to wear will either highlight his/her character or just proclaim individual status in the group.
As you see there are many reasons why dance apparel needs to be selected with care as regards to your dance. By choosing an outfit that will highlight your moves you have the chance to grasp and hold the attention of the audience which will last only as long as you’re dancing, so you need to make the most of that moment. Wearing the right dance apparel will help you do this.
When the time comes for you to choose dance apparel that is ideally portraying who you are, there are various places that you can look for buying or renting various dance apparel.
More important information on dance shoes and apparel can be found at:
http://www.agape-internet-marketing.com/websites/da/
OR
http://www.dance-apparel.info
Dancing is an art form that has the ability to transport us out of the ordinary world. ~ Ms.CiCi ~ http://www.cici-online.com
Dancing! - For many dancing expressions is one of life’s natural ways of expressing emotions. For others dance must be learned. And, alas, others seemingly have no rhythm at all; no amount of dance lessons can help! We all have various gifts and giftings.
For those who do dance it is also a given understanding that the dance clothes that we wear all show what we feel. There are many different styles of dancing in the world: tap, irish step, western, barn dancing, country music, swing, clogging, foxtrot, ballroom and waltz just to name a few.
And with these many different styles of dance are their individual styles of clothing for each dance. The clothes that are worn for a ballroom dancing event is of a more formal wear. Dance clothes for swing and the tango are informal and vibrant in looks. The infamous "10 Gallon Hat" is often worn in western, country or barn dances.
Since dancing is an activity that uses our bodies to express ourselves, we need to choose the different styles of dance with care. This also means that you need to think about the type of dance apparel that will reflect the story that your dance is telling. So when the time comes for you to choose clothes for a dancing event you should see what styles are acceptable in the dancing field.
The type of dance apparel can sometimes be dictated by the event that you are participating in. An example of this is the dance apparel that is worn for ceremonies and traditional dances. In these events the type of dance apparel is ones that have been traditionally used for hundreds of years. As an example, in Eastern countries a special stylized form of dance apparel is used in the performance of demon exorcizing dances. Here the costume or dance apparel that the dancer chooses to wear will either highlight his/her character or just proclaim individual status in the group.
As you see there are many reasons why dance apparel needs to be selected with care as regards to your dance. By choosing an outfit that will highlight your moves you have the chance to grasp and hold the attention of the audience which will last only as long as you’re dancing, so you need to make the most of that moment. Wearing the right dance apparel will help you do this.
When the time comes for you to choose dance apparel that is ideally portraying who you are, there are various places that you can look for buying or renting various dance apparel.
More important information on dance shoes and apparel can be found at:
http://www.agape-internet-marketing.com/websites/da/
OR
http://www.dance-apparel.info
Dancing is an art form that has the ability to transport us out of the ordinary world. ~ Ms.CiCi ~ http://www.cici-online.com
Top Ten Journal Writing Tips for Preteens and Teens
by: Jill Schoenberg
Daily journal writing can be an excellent tool of self-expression and self-discovery for preteens and teens (actually for kids of all ages!). Journal writing helps them to process the myriad of thoughts, feelings, and emotions they experience and becomes an invaluable tool for understanding their many life experiences. It is also an excellent form of creative self-expression.
But, when faced with a journal full of blank lines or with the task of remembering to write each and every day, some youngsters are simply overwhelmed and unmotivated. To help encourage the healthy habit of daily journal writing by your child, check out the following journal writing tips written especially for kids.
Top Ten Journal Writing Tips
1. Silence your inner critic -- It's your journal and your words and if you took the time to write them down then they are valuable, NO MATTER WHAT!
2. Break the rules -- You can break all the rules (grammar and spelling need not matter) or follow them if you prefer. It's your choice! Either way, there is no such thing as right or wrong in journal writing.
3. Go with the flow to express yourself -- Take time to tune in to how you feel. Do you feel like writing a lot or simply feel like writing one word. When you go with the flow your journal writing comes easily and feels good.
4. Pick a special spot to journal -- Choose a place where you feel safe, happy, and secure and where you feel inspired to lose yourself in your journal writing.
5. Go wild with embellishments -- Use stickers, colored pens, magazine pictures, drawings or photos to jazz up your journal. Being creative with your journal will make your writing experience more colorful, exciting, and fun.
6. Keep it simple -- If your journal writing begins to feel like a task you must accomplish, scale back or take a break. Journal writing is much more enjoyable when it feels spontaneous.
7. Discover your writing style -- All the journal writing tips in the world can only guide you, and in the end you must choose your style based on what works best for you. Ask yourself if you like to use only words (no pictures or stickers) or if you prefer to combine writing and drawing. Maybe poetry dominates your journal or maybe your preference is to break all the rules and simply free write.
8. Create a theme journal -- You can create a dream journal, a wish journal or a journal of family, friends and best moments in life. Be creative in choosing themes and if you run out of ideas you can always research new journal writing ideas on the internet.
9. Rule your Kingdom -- Nothing else matters on the pages of your journal but you. Celebrate, vent, accentuate, complain... it's up to you. Just always, always, be kind to yourself as cruelty hurts and makes you sad.
10. Keep it fun and fulfilling -- If it's not fun and fulfilling, chances are you'll quit writing. So keep it fun by giving yourself permission to try new ways of journal writing and keep it fulfilling by focusing on a wide range of topics (not just sad or bad ones, but happy and exhilarating ones as well).
Daily journal writing is a wonderful tool of expression for preteens and teens but they must feel invested in their writing. The best way to get them -- and to keep them -- invested is to encourage the free expression of their uniqueness and creativity. Let the writer choose the journal writing style that best suits their personality and personal tastes.
Happy journal writing!
Daily journal writing can be an excellent tool of self-expression and self-discovery for preteens and teens (actually for kids of all ages!). Journal writing helps them to process the myriad of thoughts, feelings, and emotions they experience and becomes an invaluable tool for understanding their many life experiences. It is also an excellent form of creative self-expression.
But, when faced with a journal full of blank lines or with the task of remembering to write each and every day, some youngsters are simply overwhelmed and unmotivated. To help encourage the healthy habit of daily journal writing by your child, check out the following journal writing tips written especially for kids.
Top Ten Journal Writing Tips
1. Silence your inner critic -- It's your journal and your words and if you took the time to write them down then they are valuable, NO MATTER WHAT!
2. Break the rules -- You can break all the rules (grammar and spelling need not matter) or follow them if you prefer. It's your choice! Either way, there is no such thing as right or wrong in journal writing.
3. Go with the flow to express yourself -- Take time to tune in to how you feel. Do you feel like writing a lot or simply feel like writing one word. When you go with the flow your journal writing comes easily and feels good.
4. Pick a special spot to journal -- Choose a place where you feel safe, happy, and secure and where you feel inspired to lose yourself in your journal writing.
5. Go wild with embellishments -- Use stickers, colored pens, magazine pictures, drawings or photos to jazz up your journal. Being creative with your journal will make your writing experience more colorful, exciting, and fun.
6. Keep it simple -- If your journal writing begins to feel like a task you must accomplish, scale back or take a break. Journal writing is much more enjoyable when it feels spontaneous.
7. Discover your writing style -- All the journal writing tips in the world can only guide you, and in the end you must choose your style based on what works best for you. Ask yourself if you like to use only words (no pictures or stickers) or if you prefer to combine writing and drawing. Maybe poetry dominates your journal or maybe your preference is to break all the rules and simply free write.
8. Create a theme journal -- You can create a dream journal, a wish journal or a journal of family, friends and best moments in life. Be creative in choosing themes and if you run out of ideas you can always research new journal writing ideas on the internet.
9. Rule your Kingdom -- Nothing else matters on the pages of your journal but you. Celebrate, vent, accentuate, complain... it's up to you. Just always, always, be kind to yourself as cruelty hurts and makes you sad.
10. Keep it fun and fulfilling -- If it's not fun and fulfilling, chances are you'll quit writing. So keep it fun by giving yourself permission to try new ways of journal writing and keep it fulfilling by focusing on a wide range of topics (not just sad or bad ones, but happy and exhilarating ones as well).
Daily journal writing is a wonderful tool of expression for preteens and teens but they must feel invested in their writing. The best way to get them -- and to keep them -- invested is to encourage the free expression of their uniqueness and creativity. Let the writer choose the journal writing style that best suits their personality and personal tastes.
Happy journal writing!
What Kids can learn from the Martial Arts
by: James Liu
Martial Arts are becoming more popular as the years go on and they do provide us with the skills that we need in order to protect ourselves form others. However, when it comes to kids and Martial Arts, some parents are wary of whether or not a Martial Arts school is for them. How do you know if your child will like the school and just how do you know it will teach them all of the right things?
Martial Arts and What They Teach Our Kids
There is a misconception that Martial Arts schools teach our children to fight. Obviously all Martial Arts consist of some kind of physical activity, but it is purely taught so that our kids can protect themselves against harm.
In a world packed full of danger it is always a good idea to get our children to be able to look after themselves. At the end of the day there is only so much a parent can teach their child but once they get out into the open world, they are literally on their own. That means that they need to be able to protect themselves and Martial Arts schools do help them to do that.
Now, there are obviously going to be some kids who just want to cause trouble. However, generally Martial Arts are only learned by those who are serious about the practice. All Martial Arts require some form of focus and kids who are just out to cause trouble and fight all the time will not be able to stick with Martial Arts for long.
Martial Arts schools never teach children to fight. If anything they teach the opposite, as using the skills that you have learned through Martial Arts to just simply fight, is opposed.
So just what are Martial Arts schools teaching our children then? Well, they teach them to look after themselves, to stay focused, to have a higher self confidence and overall to keep calm. There is definitely nothing sinister going on and Martial Arts classes are extremely safe to leave your children in. You just have to make sure that you find a good school and that you do not get sucked in by the many fake Martial Arts schools out there.
Overall Martial Arts schools are good for our kids and they do not teach anything dodgy. If you do have a child enrolled in a Martial Arts school and you are not particularly happy with the attitude they are developing, then you should really consider swapping schools. It is all a matter of doing your research and finding one to suit you and your child. You should eventually find one and you can rest safe in the knowledge that your child is bettering themselves and learning to become more protected against the world.
Martial Arts are becoming more popular as the years go on and they do provide us with the skills that we need in order to protect ourselves form others. However, when it comes to kids and Martial Arts, some parents are wary of whether or not a Martial Arts school is for them. How do you know if your child will like the school and just how do you know it will teach them all of the right things?
Martial Arts and What They Teach Our Kids
There is a misconception that Martial Arts schools teach our children to fight. Obviously all Martial Arts consist of some kind of physical activity, but it is purely taught so that our kids can protect themselves against harm.
In a world packed full of danger it is always a good idea to get our children to be able to look after themselves. At the end of the day there is only so much a parent can teach their child but once they get out into the open world, they are literally on their own. That means that they need to be able to protect themselves and Martial Arts schools do help them to do that.
Now, there are obviously going to be some kids who just want to cause trouble. However, generally Martial Arts are only learned by those who are serious about the practice. All Martial Arts require some form of focus and kids who are just out to cause trouble and fight all the time will not be able to stick with Martial Arts for long.
Martial Arts schools never teach children to fight. If anything they teach the opposite, as using the skills that you have learned through Martial Arts to just simply fight, is opposed.
So just what are Martial Arts schools teaching our children then? Well, they teach them to look after themselves, to stay focused, to have a higher self confidence and overall to keep calm. There is definitely nothing sinister going on and Martial Arts classes are extremely safe to leave your children in. You just have to make sure that you find a good school and that you do not get sucked in by the many fake Martial Arts schools out there.
Overall Martial Arts schools are good for our kids and they do not teach anything dodgy. If you do have a child enrolled in a Martial Arts school and you are not particularly happy with the attitude they are developing, then you should really consider swapping schools. It is all a matter of doing your research and finding one to suit you and your child. You should eventually find one and you can rest safe in the knowledge that your child is bettering themselves and learning to become more protected against the world.
Langganan:
Postingan (Atom)
