You've heard iPhone users gripe about their mammoth monthly charges -- but it's not just those with the fanciest smart phones who are paying a bundle.
"The average consumer overspends by $300 a year," says Schwark Satyavolu of BillShrink.com, which helps consumers save on expenses. Knocking that much off your tab isn't hard, experts say: You can do it by changing your plan, your carrier, or the way you use your phone.
CHANGE YOUR PLAN
Adjusting your current plan is the easiest way to save. You don't even have to extend or terminate your contract.
Downshift Service
"Eight of 10 people don't use what they pay for," says BillShrink's Satyavolu. Ask your carrier for a usage summary going back 12 months to see if you could get by on a cheaper plan.
Go in on Data
While many people get family voice packages, fewer take advantage of family messaging and data plans -- which can save you a lot. AT&T, for example, offers unlimited texts for a family for $30 a month, vs. $20 per person.
Ask About Affiliate Discounts
If you work for a large company, government agency, or university, you probably qualify for a discount -- up to around 25% -- on your personal phone. Get details from HR.
Cancel Coverage
Unless you have a disaster-prone teen, insurance that covers your phone for loss or damage is usually a waste. You'll pay $4 to $6 a month, and the deductible ranges from $50 to $125. You can get a new phone for less, should you need one.
Say You're Leaving
"Carriers don't want to lose customers, so if you tell them you've found a better plan, you could get a break," says Sascha Segan, cell phone analyst at PCMag.com.
CHANGE YOUR CARRIER
You may be able to do better by switching to another carrier, but wait until your contract is up to avoid termination fees.
Check Out the Competition
The four major carriers --AT&T (T, News), Verizon (VZ, News), Sprint (S, News), and T-Mobile -- have roughly 220 plans combined. BillShrink.com and Validas.com will help you wade through them to determine if you could get a better deal from a different carrier, based on your past usage.
Look Beyond the Big Four
Regional carriers such as U.S. Cellular, MetroPCS, and Cricket Wireless offer savings of $20 a month over plans from the big four. You won't get a signal nationwide, so if you travel to a place where there's no coverage, you'll pay roaming charges. "But you can save serious money if you're a homebody," says Segan. BillShrink and Validas don't include these carriers, so compare some of them at wirelessadvisor.com.
Prepay the Piper
It's easy to see why prepaid phone plans are rapidly gaining in popularity: They offer calling, texts, and web access starting at $40 a month -- with no contract or cancellation fees. If you use less than 300 minutes a month, they can be an economical choice. LetsTalk.com helps you compare plans. Also, AARP members can get a no-contract phone with 250 minutes, and service from Consumer Cellular, starting at $19 a month.
CHANGE YOUR BEHAVIOR
How you use your phone can have a lot to do with how much you'll pay. These easy behavioral shifts can save big money.
Monitor Your Minutes
For those without unlimited calling plans, charges for going over the monthly allotment of minutes average $36 per line, reports Validas.com. If you tend to approach the danger zone, check your usage weekly-- online or via the dialing code provided by your carrier -- and limit your calls accordingly. Also, get into the habit of using your landline or work phone during business hours, when mobile minutes usually count against your monthly maximum.
Get the 411 for Free
Don't know the number you need to reach? Dialing 411 will cost you at least $1.49 a pop. Use Google's no-cost option instead: Just call 800-GOOG-411.
Dialing Abroad over Wi-Fi
If you often make international calls and have an app-capable smart phone, download the Skype app. Because it operates over Wi-Fi, Skype lets you call landline phones abroad at reduced rates. (On certain Verizon phones, the Skype Mobile app does operate over the cellular network vs. Wi-Fi, but it still isn't billed to your normal minutes.) Plus, you can call other Skype users free. Either way, you'll be saying adieu to a big portion of your bill.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Saturday, July 10, 2010
10 Home Repairs That Will Save You Money
Remodels are great, but can get pretty pricey. Not everyone has thousands to add value to their home - but what about those less glamorous repair projects on your to-do list? These simple and inexpensive maintenance items don't seem like they add to your home's value, but they're big money-savers in the long run.
1. Caulk
If you've lived in your house a few years, you probably noticed that the caulk along your sinks, countertops and bathtub is coming loose. These gaps may not seem like a big deal, but they can wreak havoc inside your walls. Moisture causes mold and even leaks - expensive repairs that can easily be prevented. A tube of kitchen and bath caulk costs just a few dollars, and you'll avoid expensive repairs.
2. Insulate
The quickest way to save money on your energy bill is to insulate, yet so many of us overlook this simple home improvement project for its benefits. Sure, your walls are insulated, but what about your basement, your attic, and your garage? Just in case the energy cost savings aren't enticing enough for you, check with the IRS - there are current credits that allow you to deduct this energy-saving expense from your taxes.
3. Change Filters
When was the last time you changed your furnace's air filters? It's an oft-overlooked chore, but one that keep your furnace running efficiently, and improves the air quality inside your home. Change your filters at least every three months to keep your furnace working efficiently for years to come.
4. Install a Thermostat
Does your home have a programmable thermostat? If not, invest in one; it'll earn its money back in no time. By programming heating and cooling, you avoid paying to keep an empty house at a comfortable temperature. Manage the heat appropriately in winter to avoid burst water pipes; in summer, draw your curtains during the day to keep the house cool. Buy a programmable thermostat and you can save big on monthly bills.
5. Fix Leaks
That leaky faucet or runny toilet is draining your water bill, and in most cases it's a cheap and quick fix. Replace the washer on your faucet, and while you're at it, consider installing a faucet aerator if yours doesn't already have one. Faucet aerators reduce water flow from your faucet to save on your water bill; check your home improvement store for this inexpensive fix.
6. Install Dimmers
Dimmers aren't just for romance; they can save you big bucks on your energy bill. They're cheap and easy to install, so look for rooms that could use a little reduction in harsh lighting. While you're at it, replace your light bulbs with energy-efficient ones. They're big money savers.
7. Clean Carpets
Clean your carpet lately? With proper care, carpets can last a long time and look great, but everyone needs to clean them sometime. You don't need to hire an expensive service either - if you can vacuum, you can clean your carpets by yourself. Rent a carpet cleaner at your local supermarket or big-box store for a modest fee. Make sure you vacuum thoroughly before cleaning, and pick a dry day so your carpet dries quickly. With regular cleaning your carpet can last a long time, saving you big bucks on new flooring.
8. Clean Siding and Windows
Windows and siding get a beating in most climates. Wash your windows and siding with a simple hose and water first, and with a cleaning solution as needed; your home improvement store sells specialty products for just this kind of job. Rent a power washer for very dirty jobs. Keep an eye on cobwebs, wasp and bird nests to ensure your home's exterior stays in good shape. Touch up with paint as needed, and your house will look like new at little or no cost.
9. Fight Pests
Those spiders and ants at your foundation, that mouse nest in your crawl space? Take care of it - pests can destroy a home in a hurry. Hire an exterminator, or for small pests, combat with pesticides. Even if you don't think you have a problem, inspect every part of the interior and exterior of your home regularly to avoid small pest problems getting out hand.
10. Clean Ductwork
If your home is older, your ductwork likely has dust, grime, and other unwelcome residue inside. For big jobs, pay a professional; a simple cleaning can easily be done yourself. Simply remove the grates from your air vents, and clean the inside with your vacuum.
The Bottom Line
The best way to invest in your home is to take good care of what's already there. With these simple repair jobs, you'll even save money - with just a little elbow grease as investment.
1. Caulk
If you've lived in your house a few years, you probably noticed that the caulk along your sinks, countertops and bathtub is coming loose. These gaps may not seem like a big deal, but they can wreak havoc inside your walls. Moisture causes mold and even leaks - expensive repairs that can easily be prevented. A tube of kitchen and bath caulk costs just a few dollars, and you'll avoid expensive repairs.
2. Insulate
The quickest way to save money on your energy bill is to insulate, yet so many of us overlook this simple home improvement project for its benefits. Sure, your walls are insulated, but what about your basement, your attic, and your garage? Just in case the energy cost savings aren't enticing enough for you, check with the IRS - there are current credits that allow you to deduct this energy-saving expense from your taxes.
3. Change Filters
When was the last time you changed your furnace's air filters? It's an oft-overlooked chore, but one that keep your furnace running efficiently, and improves the air quality inside your home. Change your filters at least every three months to keep your furnace working efficiently for years to come.
4. Install a Thermostat
Does your home have a programmable thermostat? If not, invest in one; it'll earn its money back in no time. By programming heating and cooling, you avoid paying to keep an empty house at a comfortable temperature. Manage the heat appropriately in winter to avoid burst water pipes; in summer, draw your curtains during the day to keep the house cool. Buy a programmable thermostat and you can save big on monthly bills.
5. Fix Leaks
That leaky faucet or runny toilet is draining your water bill, and in most cases it's a cheap and quick fix. Replace the washer on your faucet, and while you're at it, consider installing a faucet aerator if yours doesn't already have one. Faucet aerators reduce water flow from your faucet to save on your water bill; check your home improvement store for this inexpensive fix.
6. Install Dimmers
Dimmers aren't just for romance; they can save you big bucks on your energy bill. They're cheap and easy to install, so look for rooms that could use a little reduction in harsh lighting. While you're at it, replace your light bulbs with energy-efficient ones. They're big money savers.
7. Clean Carpets
Clean your carpet lately? With proper care, carpets can last a long time and look great, but everyone needs to clean them sometime. You don't need to hire an expensive service either - if you can vacuum, you can clean your carpets by yourself. Rent a carpet cleaner at your local supermarket or big-box store for a modest fee. Make sure you vacuum thoroughly before cleaning, and pick a dry day so your carpet dries quickly. With regular cleaning your carpet can last a long time, saving you big bucks on new flooring.
8. Clean Siding and Windows
Windows and siding get a beating in most climates. Wash your windows and siding with a simple hose and water first, and with a cleaning solution as needed; your home improvement store sells specialty products for just this kind of job. Rent a power washer for very dirty jobs. Keep an eye on cobwebs, wasp and bird nests to ensure your home's exterior stays in good shape. Touch up with paint as needed, and your house will look like new at little or no cost.
9. Fight Pests
Those spiders and ants at your foundation, that mouse nest in your crawl space? Take care of it - pests can destroy a home in a hurry. Hire an exterminator, or for small pests, combat with pesticides. Even if you don't think you have a problem, inspect every part of the interior and exterior of your home regularly to avoid small pest problems getting out hand.
10. Clean Ductwork
If your home is older, your ductwork likely has dust, grime, and other unwelcome residue inside. For big jobs, pay a professional; a simple cleaning can easily be done yourself. Simply remove the grates from your air vents, and clean the inside with your vacuum.
The Bottom Line
The best way to invest in your home is to take good care of what's already there. With these simple repair jobs, you'll even save money - with just a little elbow grease as investment.
13 Simple Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill
Beating the heat this summer is an expensive proposition as temperatures soar into the triple digits in some parts of the U.S.
Cities along the East Coast endured record-setting highs Tuesday, with more than half a dozen topping temperatures not seen since 1999, according to Accuweather.com. (Baltimore topped 105 degrees, compared with 101 in 1999; and Warwick, R.I., hit 103, up from 97 in 1999.) Power demand during the heat wave is also expected to hit record highs, with many utilities warning of brownouts and blackouts.
Here's how to stay cool and keep electricity bills reasonable:
Fine-Tune Your Equipment
Arrange an HVAC inspection. Anyone can hire a certified technician for an annual check that their home's heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system is operating at peak efficiency. Leaking ducts, for example, could reduce energy efficiency by up to 20%, says Ronnie Kweller, a spokeswoman for the Alliance to Save Energy. Inspections usually cost $50 to $100, but that could be offset by the energy savings over time.
Shop for size. Consumers in the market for a new room or window air conditioner should use Energy Star guidelines to determine how powerful a unit they need. A too-powerful unit not only wastes energy, it's also less effective at reducing humidity.
Keep it clean. Clean air filters monthly for central air and individual window or wall units. Dirt and dust hinder air flow, reducing efficiency.
Program the thermostat. Give the air conditioner a break during the work day. Shifting the settings to allow higher daytime temperatures could cut the average household's electric bill by $180 a year, according to Energy Star.
Seek out incentives on appliances. Investing in a new energy-efficient unit can cut long-term bills -- and be cheaper upfront, too. Through the end of 2010, qualifying central air conditioners are eligible for a federal tax credit of 30% of the cost, including installation, up to a total of $1,500 for all projects. Plenty of states also still have rebates available under the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. A Maine resident, for example, can get $100 back on a qualifying central air conditioner, while Georgia offers $30 for room units and $99 on central units. Check for other government and utility deals in the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.
Hunt Down Heat Sources
Seal up the house. Cooled air can leak through cracks along window and door frames. Invest in some caulk and weather-stripping to plug up these drafts. A home that's properly insulated and sealed improves energy efficiency by up to 20% year-round, according to the Alliance to Save Energy. (Insulation materials are also eligible for the 30% energy efficiency federal tax credit, up to $1,500 for all improvements combined.)
Avoid chores. The hotter the space, the harder an air conditioner must work to keep things cool. Limit the use of heat-generating appliances such as the oven, dishwasher and clothes dryer during the daytime hours when temperatures are hottest, says Steve Rosenstock, manager of energy solutions for the Edison Electric Institute, an industry group. "That just makes more of a load for your air conditioner," he says.
Change light bulbs. Swapping incandescent bulbs for compact fluorescent ones can cut a home electric bill, Kweller says. Switching one incandescent for a CFL saves $35 in energy costs over the projected 10-year life of the bulb. Not only do CFLs use less energy than conventional bulbs, but they also generate less heat.
Close the blinds. Rooms get hotter without shades or curtains to block the sunlight, especially with south- and west-facing windows. Put this idea to work more effectively with insulated window treatments.
Use fans. A breeze makes the room feel a few degrees cooler. Just be sure to turn it off when leaving. "Fans cool people, not rooms," Kweller says.
Unplug. Gadgets like a cellphone charger or microwave suck energy -- and generate heat -- as long as they're attached to a power source. Standby power for appliances not in use typically accounts for 5% to 10% of residential electricity use, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Plug those devices into a power strip that can be turned off when not in use.
Assess Utility Suppliers
Check alternate suppliers. Residents of states where the electric industry is deregulated can shop around for their energy provider, says Rosenstock. Depending on the options, some residents could save 5% to 15% a month. Many alternative companies use renewable energy, so they're much less dependent on volatile oil, coal and natural gas prices. Most will also fix billing rates for a year or more -- a bonus if energy prices creep up. The state's public service commission should keep a list of options. Just be aware that most providers require a commitment of at least a year and charge a hefty fee for ducking out early, Rosenstock says.
Consider time-of-use plans. A growing number of electric companies are offering so-called time-of-use plans, which offer lower rates for energy consumption during off-peak hours (usually from mid-evening to early morning). The catch is that users often pay more for peak-hours use, so consider the daily schedule before signing up. Arizona-based SRP, for example, regularly charges 10.64 to 12.12 cents per kilowatt hour during July and August, based on the amount used in a billing period. On the time-of-use plan, it charges a flat 21.30 cents for on-peak hours (1 p.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays) and 6.65 cents during the rest of the day, on weekends and holidays.
Fix the bill. Ask the utility company about fixed-bill plans, which charge the same amount every month for a set period, regardless of electricity use. Users pay a premium rate per kilowatt hour to hedge against price increases and seasonal spikes, so make sure to crunch the numbers to confirm the savings, Kweller says. Also, keep in mind that these plans periodically reconcile, which can leave users with a big bill if they've used more than the supplier anticipated. Check with the utility to see if it alerts customers using more power than they anticipated and whether users can pay extra as they go.
Cities along the East Coast endured record-setting highs Tuesday, with more than half a dozen topping temperatures not seen since 1999, according to Accuweather.com. (Baltimore topped 105 degrees, compared with 101 in 1999; and Warwick, R.I., hit 103, up from 97 in 1999.) Power demand during the heat wave is also expected to hit record highs, with many utilities warning of brownouts and blackouts.
Here's how to stay cool and keep electricity bills reasonable:
Fine-Tune Your Equipment
Arrange an HVAC inspection. Anyone can hire a certified technician for an annual check that their home's heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system is operating at peak efficiency. Leaking ducts, for example, could reduce energy efficiency by up to 20%, says Ronnie Kweller, a spokeswoman for the Alliance to Save Energy. Inspections usually cost $50 to $100, but that could be offset by the energy savings over time.
Shop for size. Consumers in the market for a new room or window air conditioner should use Energy Star guidelines to determine how powerful a unit they need. A too-powerful unit not only wastes energy, it's also less effective at reducing humidity.
Keep it clean. Clean air filters monthly for central air and individual window or wall units. Dirt and dust hinder air flow, reducing efficiency.
Program the thermostat. Give the air conditioner a break during the work day. Shifting the settings to allow higher daytime temperatures could cut the average household's electric bill by $180 a year, according to Energy Star.
Seek out incentives on appliances. Investing in a new energy-efficient unit can cut long-term bills -- and be cheaper upfront, too. Through the end of 2010, qualifying central air conditioners are eligible for a federal tax credit of 30% of the cost, including installation, up to a total of $1,500 for all projects. Plenty of states also still have rebates available under the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. A Maine resident, for example, can get $100 back on a qualifying central air conditioner, while Georgia offers $30 for room units and $99 on central units. Check for other government and utility deals in the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.
Hunt Down Heat Sources
Seal up the house. Cooled air can leak through cracks along window and door frames. Invest in some caulk and weather-stripping to plug up these drafts. A home that's properly insulated and sealed improves energy efficiency by up to 20% year-round, according to the Alliance to Save Energy. (Insulation materials are also eligible for the 30% energy efficiency federal tax credit, up to $1,500 for all improvements combined.)
Avoid chores. The hotter the space, the harder an air conditioner must work to keep things cool. Limit the use of heat-generating appliances such as the oven, dishwasher and clothes dryer during the daytime hours when temperatures are hottest, says Steve Rosenstock, manager of energy solutions for the Edison Electric Institute, an industry group. "That just makes more of a load for your air conditioner," he says.
Change light bulbs. Swapping incandescent bulbs for compact fluorescent ones can cut a home electric bill, Kweller says. Switching one incandescent for a CFL saves $35 in energy costs over the projected 10-year life of the bulb. Not only do CFLs use less energy than conventional bulbs, but they also generate less heat.
Close the blinds. Rooms get hotter without shades or curtains to block the sunlight, especially with south- and west-facing windows. Put this idea to work more effectively with insulated window treatments.
Use fans. A breeze makes the room feel a few degrees cooler. Just be sure to turn it off when leaving. "Fans cool people, not rooms," Kweller says.
Unplug. Gadgets like a cellphone charger or microwave suck energy -- and generate heat -- as long as they're attached to a power source. Standby power for appliances not in use typically accounts for 5% to 10% of residential electricity use, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Plug those devices into a power strip that can be turned off when not in use.
Assess Utility Suppliers
Check alternate suppliers. Residents of states where the electric industry is deregulated can shop around for their energy provider, says Rosenstock. Depending on the options, some residents could save 5% to 15% a month. Many alternative companies use renewable energy, so they're much less dependent on volatile oil, coal and natural gas prices. Most will also fix billing rates for a year or more -- a bonus if energy prices creep up. The state's public service commission should keep a list of options. Just be aware that most providers require a commitment of at least a year and charge a hefty fee for ducking out early, Rosenstock says.
Consider time-of-use plans. A growing number of electric companies are offering so-called time-of-use plans, which offer lower rates for energy consumption during off-peak hours (usually from mid-evening to early morning). The catch is that users often pay more for peak-hours use, so consider the daily schedule before signing up. Arizona-based SRP, for example, regularly charges 10.64 to 12.12 cents per kilowatt hour during July and August, based on the amount used in a billing period. On the time-of-use plan, it charges a flat 21.30 cents for on-peak hours (1 p.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays) and 6.65 cents during the rest of the day, on weekends and holidays.
Fix the bill. Ask the utility company about fixed-bill plans, which charge the same amount every month for a set period, regardless of electricity use. Users pay a premium rate per kilowatt hour to hedge against price increases and seasonal spikes, so make sure to crunch the numbers to confirm the savings, Kweller says. Also, keep in mind that these plans periodically reconcile, which can leave users with a big bill if they've used more than the supplier anticipated. Check with the utility to see if it alerts customers using more power than they anticipated and whether users can pay extra as they go.
2 Year-Old Boy Smoking Video
Hard to believe, but this 2 year-old boy Ardi Rizal is smoking since he was 18 months old. Ardi is from Indonesia and his dad Mohammed taught him and gave him a fag when he was at that very young age. We don’t know why his dad uttered this, “He looks pretty healthy to me. I don’t see the problem.” Duh!
Ardi the 2 year-old boy smokes 2 packs a day or 40 cigarettes a day. He would cry and bump his head on walls whenever his mom refuse to give him cigarettes. His mom spend £3.78 a day in Musi Banyuasin, Indonesia.
Ardi story caught the attention of World Health Organization after his story published online, he is now under their custody.
EMBED-Ardi Rizal - The real SMOKING BABY !! - Watch more free videos
Ardi the 2 year-old boy smokes 2 packs a day or 40 cigarettes a day. He would cry and bump his head on walls whenever his mom refuse to give him cigarettes. His mom spend £3.78 a day in Musi Banyuasin, Indonesia.
Ardi story caught the attention of World Health Organization after his story published online, he is now under their custody.
EMBED-Ardi Rizal - The real SMOKING BABY !! - Watch more free videos
Thursday, July 8, 2010
A Cell Tower of Your Very Own
Major Carriers Sell a Personal Device That Improves Signal
Up until a few weeks ago, Mike Gillin was a tough man to get a hold of.
His basement apartment in Smithtown, N.Y. is a virtual black hole for cellular signals. AT&T Inc.'s cellular service is just good enough that Mr. Gillin's iPhone would ring when dialed—but the calls would usually fail to connect. Text messages would arrive hours, or even days, late. Friends trying to reach him would have to switch back and forth between dialing his land line and his cellphone in an effort to get through.
"It was always a process of calling one number, and then the other and hoping I answered one," says Mr. Gillin, 35-year-old email systems manager. "It was always a pain."
So it's no wonder that in May Mr. Gillin jumped at the chance to buy AT&T's 3G Microcell—a textbook-size cellphone gadget known as a femtocell that helps with unreliable cellular service. Think of it as a personal cellphone tower. It operates on the same technological principle, receiving an incoming call signal via the home's DSL or cable Internet connection, and then broadcasting the signal to the user's cellphone.
Never heard of a femtocell? Many other cellphone users haven't, either. Major cellular carriers do virtually no advertising for the devices—a rare example of reticence in an industry that spends heavily on ads. Industry experts say big carriers are reluctant to highlight a product that calls attention to the problem of spotty network coverage.
AT&T has been rolling out the 3G Microcell, which provides a full signal to a surrounding area of up to 5,000 square feet, as an answer for customers in areas with poor reception. The price is $149.99.
Verizon Wireless's femtocell, the "Network Extender," is priced at $99.99; Verizon doesn't sell it in stores. Sprint Nextel Corp. sells its Airave for $99.99 with a mandatory $4.99 monthly charge to customers who ask a service representative. T-Mobile USA doesn't sell the device.
The carriers say they put limited marketing behind the devices because they don't see them as mass-market products, although useful in certain situations. "It is designed largely for customers who—because of architectural issues or location geography—want enhanced calling," a Verizon spokesman says. Sprint says the femtocell "helps enhance" coverage and notes there are situations where reception problems are out of the carrier's control. AT&T says it plans to offer the 3G Microcell in a direct marketing campaign to customers facing unique physical or geographic obstructions.
The carriers have been sensitive to criticism of poor coverage and the propensity for dropped phone calls. AT&T still faces reception issues in New York and San Francisco, largely due to the popularity and data- hungry demands of Apple Inc.'s iPhone. AT&T says it is working on improving coverage in those areas, and expects to have upgrades in both cities later this year. The two cities were among the first to get the 3G Microcell following the April launch. AT&T's device improves signals for both data and voice; those from Verizon and Sprint boost only voice quality.
As for the devices' potential health risks, some experts say they are probably no worse—and may be less—than the still-unproven risks posed by regular cellphone signals. Industry observers note femtocells are no more harmful than the typical Wi-Fi hotspot, and may be less harmful than a cellphone because they aren't held close to the body.
"At this point, there's no conclusive evidence showing all these radio signals are hurting people," says Harry Wong, analyst at research firm Parks Associates.
Film director Barry Sonnenfeld purchased Verizon's Network Extender nearly a year ago for his East Hampton, N.Y., house, which doubles as a home theater where he screens projects. Mr. Sonnenfeld, who uses three major wireless carriers—Verizon Wireless for his BlackBerry Bold, AT&T for his iPhone and Sprint for his Evo 4G—says service is bad in the area. "Verizon is sketchy and AT&T is profoundly bad," says Mr. Sonnenfeld. He says with the Verizon device, the BlackBerry has full bars; he says he is planning to buy AT&T's device, too.
Femtocells can be a pain to set up. Activation can take up to 90 minutes, and Mr. Gillin says he occasionally has to reboot it. And because the device relies on a global positioning system to confirm its location in a service area, it needs a clear line of sight to the sky.
The devices have to be in areas where the carrier already offers service, so they won't work overseas. AT&T, on the first weekend after the launch of the iPhone 4 last month, had a system outage that left some 3G Microcells from activating.
For customers on limited-call plans, the carriers also offer an option to pay an additional monthly fee and get unlimited calls using the femtocell. Some consumers have bristled at paying extra to improve what they believe are the carriers' own coverage problems. The carriers say fees cover the cost of running wireless traffic from the femtocell back to their networks.
Some people who have the devices say the improved service is worth the cost. David Nowicki, a marketing executive for Airvana Inc., which is working on a data femtocell for Sprint, says he personally uses all of his competitors' devices because his North Andover, Mass., home sits between two hills that interfere with cellular signals. "You have a part of the network that's dedicated to you," he says.
Up until a few weeks ago, Mike Gillin was a tough man to get a hold of.
His basement apartment in Smithtown, N.Y. is a virtual black hole for cellular signals. AT&T Inc.'s cellular service is just good enough that Mr. Gillin's iPhone would ring when dialed—but the calls would usually fail to connect. Text messages would arrive hours, or even days, late. Friends trying to reach him would have to switch back and forth between dialing his land line and his cellphone in an effort to get through.
"It was always a process of calling one number, and then the other and hoping I answered one," says Mr. Gillin, 35-year-old email systems manager. "It was always a pain."
So it's no wonder that in May Mr. Gillin jumped at the chance to buy AT&T's 3G Microcell—a textbook-size cellphone gadget known as a femtocell that helps with unreliable cellular service. Think of it as a personal cellphone tower. It operates on the same technological principle, receiving an incoming call signal via the home's DSL or cable Internet connection, and then broadcasting the signal to the user's cellphone.
Never heard of a femtocell? Many other cellphone users haven't, either. Major cellular carriers do virtually no advertising for the devices—a rare example of reticence in an industry that spends heavily on ads. Industry experts say big carriers are reluctant to highlight a product that calls attention to the problem of spotty network coverage.
AT&T has been rolling out the 3G Microcell, which provides a full signal to a surrounding area of up to 5,000 square feet, as an answer for customers in areas with poor reception. The price is $149.99.
Verizon Wireless's femtocell, the "Network Extender," is priced at $99.99; Verizon doesn't sell it in stores. Sprint Nextel Corp. sells its Airave for $99.99 with a mandatory $4.99 monthly charge to customers who ask a service representative. T-Mobile USA doesn't sell the device.
The carriers say they put limited marketing behind the devices because they don't see them as mass-market products, although useful in certain situations. "It is designed largely for customers who—because of architectural issues or location geography—want enhanced calling," a Verizon spokesman says. Sprint says the femtocell "helps enhance" coverage and notes there are situations where reception problems are out of the carrier's control. AT&T says it plans to offer the 3G Microcell in a direct marketing campaign to customers facing unique physical or geographic obstructions.
The carriers have been sensitive to criticism of poor coverage and the propensity for dropped phone calls. AT&T still faces reception issues in New York and San Francisco, largely due to the popularity and data- hungry demands of Apple Inc.'s iPhone. AT&T says it is working on improving coverage in those areas, and expects to have upgrades in both cities later this year. The two cities were among the first to get the 3G Microcell following the April launch. AT&T's device improves signals for both data and voice; those from Verizon and Sprint boost only voice quality.
As for the devices' potential health risks, some experts say they are probably no worse—and may be less—than the still-unproven risks posed by regular cellphone signals. Industry observers note femtocells are no more harmful than the typical Wi-Fi hotspot, and may be less harmful than a cellphone because they aren't held close to the body.
"At this point, there's no conclusive evidence showing all these radio signals are hurting people," says Harry Wong, analyst at research firm Parks Associates.
Film director Barry Sonnenfeld purchased Verizon's Network Extender nearly a year ago for his East Hampton, N.Y., house, which doubles as a home theater where he screens projects. Mr. Sonnenfeld, who uses three major wireless carriers—Verizon Wireless for his BlackBerry Bold, AT&T for his iPhone and Sprint for his Evo 4G—says service is bad in the area. "Verizon is sketchy and AT&T is profoundly bad," says Mr. Sonnenfeld. He says with the Verizon device, the BlackBerry has full bars; he says he is planning to buy AT&T's device, too.
Femtocells can be a pain to set up. Activation can take up to 90 minutes, and Mr. Gillin says he occasionally has to reboot it. And because the device relies on a global positioning system to confirm its location in a service area, it needs a clear line of sight to the sky.
The devices have to be in areas where the carrier already offers service, so they won't work overseas. AT&T, on the first weekend after the launch of the iPhone 4 last month, had a system outage that left some 3G Microcells from activating.
For customers on limited-call plans, the carriers also offer an option to pay an additional monthly fee and get unlimited calls using the femtocell. Some consumers have bristled at paying extra to improve what they believe are the carriers' own coverage problems. The carriers say fees cover the cost of running wireless traffic from the femtocell back to their networks.
Some people who have the devices say the improved service is worth the cost. David Nowicki, a marketing executive for Airvana Inc., which is working on a data femtocell for Sprint, says he personally uses all of his competitors' devices because his North Andover, Mass., home sits between two hills that interfere with cellular signals. "You have a part of the network that's dedicated to you," he says.
AT&T blames Alcatel-Lucent problem for iPhone glitch
AT&T Inc. said a software defect is slowing down the wireless connection for more than one million customers looking to send data from smartphones like the iPhone 4 or laptop modems.
AT&T and supplier Alcatel-Lucent found a problem with Alcatel equipment that is preventing some subscribers from reaching their peak data transmission speed.
The companies said the issue affects less than 2% of AT&T's wireless customers, or about 1.75 million people. Alcatel-Lucent said it was working to fix the software glitch.
The glitch is the latest in a series of hiccups for AT&T, which is struggling with the perception that its network suffers from more dropped calls and coverage problems than rival Verizon Wireless.
Until a fix is completed, AT&T said some customers who previously were able to get a faster version of 3G called HSUPA could only get "normal 3G uplink speeds," which is slower. People affected include those who own a Laptop Connect card, as well as certain smartphones, including the Apple Inc. iPhone 4.
An AT&T spokesman declined to comment on which markets were affected by the network problem. The company had 87 million subscribers at the end of the first quarter.
AT&T has dealt with a number of glitches, including allowing the private email addresses of about 140,000 owners of cellular-connected iPads to be publicly released, as well as problems with customers attempting to preorder iPhone 4s. More recently, Apple has talked about the signal strength and antenna issue of its new iPhone 4, partly laying the blame on its carrier partner's network.
AT&T and supplier Alcatel-Lucent found a problem with Alcatel equipment that is preventing some subscribers from reaching their peak data transmission speed.
The companies said the issue affects less than 2% of AT&T's wireless customers, or about 1.75 million people. Alcatel-Lucent said it was working to fix the software glitch.
The glitch is the latest in a series of hiccups for AT&T, which is struggling with the perception that its network suffers from more dropped calls and coverage problems than rival Verizon Wireless.
Until a fix is completed, AT&T said some customers who previously were able to get a faster version of 3G called HSUPA could only get "normal 3G uplink speeds," which is slower. People affected include those who own a Laptop Connect card, as well as certain smartphones, including the Apple Inc. iPhone 4.
An AT&T spokesman declined to comment on which markets were affected by the network problem. The company had 87 million subscribers at the end of the first quarter.
AT&T has dealt with a number of glitches, including allowing the private email addresses of about 140,000 owners of cellular-connected iPads to be publicly released, as well as problems with customers attempting to preorder iPhone 4s. More recently, Apple has talked about the signal strength and antenna issue of its new iPhone 4, partly laying the blame on its carrier partner's network.
AT&t glitch IPhone4 upload speeds
In the latest snag for the iPhone 4, AT&T Inc. said Wednesday that a software defect in its network is limiting data uploads from the phone in some areas.
That means it takes longer for users to send pictures, video and other content from the phone.
Apple Inc.'s new iPhone 4 went on sale in the U.S. and a few other countries two weeks ago. Last week, Apple acknowledged that holding the phone in a certain way might reduce its wireless performance, and that all iPhones show the wrong signal strength in some situations.
Dallas-based AT&T said Wednesday that a software glitch in network equipment made by Alcatel-Lucent is to blame for limiting the upload speeds of the iPhone 4. AT&T said a fix is in the works.
Alcatel-Lucent spokeswoman Denise Panyik-Dale confirmed that there's a software problem in the company's cellular base station equipment.
Because Alcatel-Lucent isn't the only supplier of base station equipment to AT&T, the problem only affects some areas. AT&T spokesman Mark Siegel said the flaw affects 2 percent of the phone company's customer base.
The iPhone 4 is the first phone designed to take full advantage of an upload-speeding technology that AT&T put in place in 2008. In theory, it's capable of uploads that are 10 times faster than those of the previous iPhone model.
But where the network is affected by the software glitch, some users report the new phone is getting upload speeds limited to 100 kilobits per second, somewhat lower than the speeds usually achieved with the previous iPhone model.
Outdoor Coverage vs. Indoor Coverage
Great coverage outside doesn't always mean great coverage inside. Wireless carriers have done a good job on improving outdoor performance with more cell sites and improving dropped call rates in most major cities. But poor in-building coverage – offices, commercial buildings, condominiums, apartments and homes is an issue that needs to be addressed.
Blame the Building
Our cell phone numbers and email addresses have increasingly become a way of staying connected no matter where we are, so it's expected that our wireless devices should work inside our homes and offices. But building materials like concrete and tinted glass, and building locations in shadowed areas, can frequently stop cellular, 3G, 4G, GSM, CDMA and PCS signals from penetrating into your location, so that phones don't work in meeting rooms, home offices, warehouses – the list goes on.
Wireless Data Applications
Cell phones and other devices like iPhone's, Blackberry's, and G1 Android's are fast becoming a way of mobilizing the workforce. But where you might be willing to put up with two bars of coverage on your cell phone for a voice call, for a wireless data application to work well – a strong signal is required. Improving in-building coverage is a must for ensuring data throughput for wireless devices is maximized, and that those wireless applications that your organization has invested in, work well in the places where they are being used more and more frequently - indoors.
How We Can Help?
Five-Bars Wireless Houston
This site is designed to collect information on building locations with indoor coverage problems to ensure that wireless service providers better understand your in-building wireless requirements, and to help develop and deliver solutions that address your needs for improved indoor coverage. These issues can be addressed by submitting a coverage complaint to our map and then hope that the problem is eventually addressed by the carrier. Or you can take action on your own to solve the coverage problem and purchase a repeater or femtocell to improve the signal in your home or office.
Great coverage outside doesn't always mean great coverage inside. Wireless carriers have done a good job on improving outdoor performance with more cell sites and improving dropped call rates in most major cities. But poor in-building coverage – offices, commercial buildings, condominiums, apartments and homes is an issue that needs to be addressed.
Blame the Building
Our cell phone numbers and email addresses have increasingly become a way of staying connected no matter where we are, so it's expected that our wireless devices should work inside our homes and offices. But building materials like concrete and tinted glass, and building locations in shadowed areas, can frequently stop cellular, 3G, 4G, GSM, CDMA and PCS signals from penetrating into your location, so that phones don't work in meeting rooms, home offices, warehouses – the list goes on.
Wireless Data Applications
Cell phones and other devices like iPhone's, Blackberry's, and G1 Android's are fast becoming a way of mobilizing the workforce. But where you might be willing to put up with two bars of coverage on your cell phone for a voice call, for a wireless data application to work well – a strong signal is required. Improving in-building coverage is a must for ensuring data throughput for wireless devices is maximized, and that those wireless applications that your organization has invested in, work well in the places where they are being used more and more frequently - indoors.
How We Can Help?
Five-Bars Wireless Houston
This site is designed to collect information on building locations with indoor coverage problems to ensure that wireless service providers better understand your in-building wireless requirements, and to help develop and deliver solutions that address your needs for improved indoor coverage. These issues can be addressed by submitting a coverage complaint to our map and then hope that the problem is eventually addressed by the carrier. Or you can take action on your own to solve the coverage problem and purchase a repeater or femtocell to improve the signal in your home or office.
Cell Phone Coverage Problems
Cell phones have great significance in modern society. Cell phones are our lifelines to the world and they allow us to stay connected at all times. Due to the increased prominence of cell phone, wireless providers now offer extensive coverage areas that encompass the majority of the U.S. However, despite the extensive coverage map, there are a variety of factors that impair wireless coverage.
Function
Cell phones communicate with a series of towers or "cell sites" to send and receive voice calls across public telephone networks. Since wireless telephones use radio waves, their coverage is impacted by a variety of factors, including location of cell phone towers, call volume, architecture and topography. These factors can limit wireless coverage within a wireless provider's coverage areas and often result in dropped calls, poor call quality or weakened signals.
Cell Phone Towers
Cell phone towers are essential to the successful transmission of cell phone calls. Despite an abundance of cell phone towers in a given area, callers may experience dropped calls due to their location and the number of callers accessing the network. Traveling between cell phone towers and driving through tunnels causes cell phone calls to drop because they inhibit the successful transition of the call from one tower to another. Additionally, a high volume of cell phone callers accessing a tower at a given time strains the provider's network. A strained cell phone network results in a busy signal and inhibits the ability to place a call.
Architecture
The type of building in which you are located also influences the reliability of cell phone coverage. Buildings are generally constructed with dense materials that impair wireless reception in coverage areas. For example, concrete greatly reduces wireless coverage because its thickness absorbs or blocks the signal. Aluminum siding and stucco also impact wireless coverage because they reflect radio waves and inhibit them from reaching the cell phone. In these instances, installing an antenna on top of the structure or going outside of the building may be necessary to successfully place or receive calls.
Electromagnetic Interference
Electromagnetic interference disrupts the reception of radio waves and prohibits cell phone towers from properly communicating with cell phones. Electrical and battery-operated items that can be found within a home or office can cause cell phone interference. Microwave ovens, blenders and computers can cause interruptions with cell phone service. When placing a call, it is recommended that you move away from these items or unplug them.
Geography
The geography in a given area can greatly impair or disrupt cell phone coverage. Mountains, hills, dense trees and tall buildings interfere with cell phone service because the phone and cell phone tower are blocked from communicating with one another. When the cell phone signal does come through, it is often distorted and unclear. When traveling through areas with hills and trees, it is recommended that you place your phone at an angle when you reach a clearing to help the cell phone tower find your phone. The problem is being curtailed in cities since many buildings now have cell phone towers installed on their roofs.
How to get better cell phone reception in your areas, visit Five-Bars Wireless for more info..
Function
Cell phones communicate with a series of towers or "cell sites" to send and receive voice calls across public telephone networks. Since wireless telephones use radio waves, their coverage is impacted by a variety of factors, including location of cell phone towers, call volume, architecture and topography. These factors can limit wireless coverage within a wireless provider's coverage areas and often result in dropped calls, poor call quality or weakened signals.
Cell Phone Towers
Cell phone towers are essential to the successful transmission of cell phone calls. Despite an abundance of cell phone towers in a given area, callers may experience dropped calls due to their location and the number of callers accessing the network. Traveling between cell phone towers and driving through tunnels causes cell phone calls to drop because they inhibit the successful transition of the call from one tower to another. Additionally, a high volume of cell phone callers accessing a tower at a given time strains the provider's network. A strained cell phone network results in a busy signal and inhibits the ability to place a call.
Architecture
The type of building in which you are located also influences the reliability of cell phone coverage. Buildings are generally constructed with dense materials that impair wireless reception in coverage areas. For example, concrete greatly reduces wireless coverage because its thickness absorbs or blocks the signal. Aluminum siding and stucco also impact wireless coverage because they reflect radio waves and inhibit them from reaching the cell phone. In these instances, installing an antenna on top of the structure or going outside of the building may be necessary to successfully place or receive calls.
Electromagnetic Interference
Electromagnetic interference disrupts the reception of radio waves and prohibits cell phone towers from properly communicating with cell phones. Electrical and battery-operated items that can be found within a home or office can cause cell phone interference. Microwave ovens, blenders and computers can cause interruptions with cell phone service. When placing a call, it is recommended that you move away from these items or unplug them.
Geography
The geography in a given area can greatly impair or disrupt cell phone coverage. Mountains, hills, dense trees and tall buildings interfere with cell phone service because the phone and cell phone tower are blocked from communicating with one another. When the cell phone signal does come through, it is often distorted and unclear. When traveling through areas with hills and trees, it is recommended that you place your phone at an angle when you reach a clearing to help the cell phone tower find your phone. The problem is being curtailed in cities since many buildings now have cell phone towers installed on their roofs.
How to get better cell phone reception in your areas, visit Five-Bars Wireless for more info..
Increase Indoor Cell Phone Signal Strength
Ughhhhh! An important phone call... you walk to the counter to get a pen and paper... THE CALL IS DROPPED!!! You frantically search for an area in your home for cell phone signal... it is just one complete DEAD ZONE!
How many times has this happened to you??? It happens to me all the time... here is why!
Cell phone signals can diminish to nothing when you are indoors causing static or dropped calls. Metal siding and roofs, poor network coverage, and the number of cell phone users in your area contribute to the loss of signal. Unfortunately, the number of cell phone users is expected to climb as land lines become a thing of the past. I doubt the cell phone providers will be able to increase network coverage to meet the demand as quickly as needed. The more add-ons and applications we use on our phones, the more it drains the available network resources. What this means for cell phone users is a decrease in indoor cell phone signal strength.
What to do??? Visit Five-Bars Wireless website and they can help you to increase your indoor cell phone signal strength.
How many times has this happened to you??? It happens to me all the time... here is why!
Cell phone signals can diminish to nothing when you are indoors causing static or dropped calls. Metal siding and roofs, poor network coverage, and the number of cell phone users in your area contribute to the loss of signal. Unfortunately, the number of cell phone users is expected to climb as land lines become a thing of the past. I doubt the cell phone providers will be able to increase network coverage to meet the demand as quickly as needed. The more add-ons and applications we use on our phones, the more it drains the available network resources. What this means for cell phone users is a decrease in indoor cell phone signal strength.
What to do??? Visit Five-Bars Wireless website and they can help you to increase your indoor cell phone signal strength.
About T-Shirt Printing
T-shirts have been popular since as far back as ancient Egyptian times. English men started wearing them in the late 1800s as an undergarment. The first T-shirt designs and screen printing services popped up in the early 1950s. T-shirt printing services have evolved over the years from making shirts by hand to using complicated machinery to produce printed shirts en mass. Nowadays it seems that anyone with a computer program and a solid concept in mind can have their own T-shirt or even a clothing line.
Screen Printing
When you need a professional quality T-Shirt printed, you have to go with a screen printer. Screen printers use special machines and tools to print designs onto T-shirts. In short, a mesh screen is placed on the T-shirt with parts of it masked to create the outline of the design, then inked and finally pressed into the fabric. A fully automated screen printer will place the shirts through a conveyor belt for printing and finishing. While in the past T-shirt designers had to come to a screen printer with a drawn or printed version of their design, now they can simply e-mail a file to have it printed directly from the printer's computer.
T-Shirt Transfers
If you want to make a quick T-shirt, you can also buy T-shirt transfer paper from your local office supply store or wholesale club. You can print a design on the T-shirt transfer paper on a standard ink jet printer. The T-shirt design has to be mirrored, meaning that the image has to be flipped horizontally on your computer screen and then printed for the design to print correctly. Then, once the printing is done, you simply place the transfer paper down flat on the front or back of the T-shirt and iron it on. T-shirt transfers are best for making informal shirts for quaint functions, such as family reunions, because they don't produce the same high quality as a screen printer.
Embossing and Embroidery
There are other options for people who need T-shirt printing services. Some customers might want an embossed or raised look for their T-shirts. The image is raised using a special heat printing process to create a 3D look. Embroidery is very popular on more expensive, designer T-shirts. This involves imprinting designs, logos and wording onto T-shirts using precise, high-speed sewing machines.
Shirt and Ink Color Considerations
When you are designing a T-shirt to be printed, you have to think about how the colors will translate on certain shirts. For example, if your T-shirt design is mostly red, it wouldn't make much sense to print it on a red shirt, because most of the shirt design would be lost in the background. That is unless the T-shirt design is printed on a white background to contrast against the red. When printing the white colors in a T-shirt design on a white shirt, T-shirt prints will sometimes just use the white of the shirt instead of actually applying white ink to the shirt. Of course, the best contrast is achieved by printing black ink on a white shirt, or white ink on a black shirt.
Potential
Some T-shirt printers are now cashing in on the convenience of online shopping. Anyone can have their shirt idea designed, printed and shipped to them with just a few clicks. Services like Zazzle even allow you to sell your shirt creations directly from its website. Whenever someone orders your shirt, it is printed and shipped to them automatically. This is a great money-making opportunity for skilled graphic designers looking for an easy way to print their T-shirt designs and generate a side income from their concepts.
Screen Printing
When you need a professional quality T-Shirt printed, you have to go with a screen printer. Screen printers use special machines and tools to print designs onto T-shirts. In short, a mesh screen is placed on the T-shirt with parts of it masked to create the outline of the design, then inked and finally pressed into the fabric. A fully automated screen printer will place the shirts through a conveyor belt for printing and finishing. While in the past T-shirt designers had to come to a screen printer with a drawn or printed version of their design, now they can simply e-mail a file to have it printed directly from the printer's computer.
T-Shirt Transfers
If you want to make a quick T-shirt, you can also buy T-shirt transfer paper from your local office supply store or wholesale club. You can print a design on the T-shirt transfer paper on a standard ink jet printer. The T-shirt design has to be mirrored, meaning that the image has to be flipped horizontally on your computer screen and then printed for the design to print correctly. Then, once the printing is done, you simply place the transfer paper down flat on the front or back of the T-shirt and iron it on. T-shirt transfers are best for making informal shirts for quaint functions, such as family reunions, because they don't produce the same high quality as a screen printer.
Embossing and Embroidery
There are other options for people who need T-shirt printing services. Some customers might want an embossed or raised look for their T-shirts. The image is raised using a special heat printing process to create a 3D look. Embroidery is very popular on more expensive, designer T-shirts. This involves imprinting designs, logos and wording onto T-shirts using precise, high-speed sewing machines.
Shirt and Ink Color Considerations
When you are designing a T-shirt to be printed, you have to think about how the colors will translate on certain shirts. For example, if your T-shirt design is mostly red, it wouldn't make much sense to print it on a red shirt, because most of the shirt design would be lost in the background. That is unless the T-shirt design is printed on a white background to contrast against the red. When printing the white colors in a T-shirt design on a white shirt, T-shirt prints will sometimes just use the white of the shirt instead of actually applying white ink to the shirt. Of course, the best contrast is achieved by printing black ink on a white shirt, or white ink on a black shirt.
Potential
Some T-shirt printers are now cashing in on the convenience of online shopping. Anyone can have their shirt idea designed, printed and shipped to them with just a few clicks. Services like Zazzle even allow you to sell your shirt creations directly from its website. Whenever someone orders your shirt, it is printed and shipped to them automatically. This is a great money-making opportunity for skilled graphic designers looking for an easy way to print their T-shirt designs and generate a side income from their concepts.
50th Birthday Gifts Ideas
By any measure, a 50th birthday represents a milestone in an individual's life. While 50th birthday gifts can be a chance to splurge on a special 50-year-old by giving them classic gold jewelry or 50 experiences; inexpensive gifts, such as 50 memories or flowers, can be among the most treasured presents received.
Shower of 50 Gifts
•Give the recipient a small gift for each of the 50 days leading up to his 50th birthday; select small thoughtful items such as a new book by his favorite author, a bar of chocolate, a small candle or even a bottle of his preferred soda.
50 Items in Packs of 50
•Wrap a selection of 50 items grouped into collections of 50, such as 50 pencils or pens, 50 thumbtacks, 50 envelopes, 50 sheets of stationery, 50 candles, 50 cookies, 50 jelly beans or even a pack of 50 Legos or marbles for the young at heart. For the best results, stick primarily with items that can be used (or eaten) by the individual rather than giving her too many useless knick-knacks. This can be a fun project for a group of people to put together for an individual's birthday.
Fifties Music
•Give a music lover a selection of music from the 1950s. Include favorites by artists such as Elvis Presley, Nat King Cole, Rosemary Clooney and other notable musicians of that time period.
Jewelry
•Classic gifts for a 50th birthday include a watch for men and bracelets or earrings for a woman. Consider giving a gift made out of gold because many people refer to the 50's as the "golden years."
50 Experiences
•Create a coupon book of 50 experiences you want to give the birthday recipient during their 50th year. Depending upon your relationship to the recipient, these experiences might include romance (dinner on the beach), adventure (a sky diving session) or pampering (spa day).
Flowers
•Send a woman celebrating this milestone birthday 50 flowers for a striking and dramatic birthday tribute. While many people traditionally send red roses, you could also consider tulips or another flower favored by the recipient.
50 Memories Canister
•Decorate an empty canister by gluing photos, newspaper clippings or other items onto it. Tear a sheet or two of paper into 50 small strips. On each strip of paper, write a favorite memory of the birthday man or woman. This inexpensive gift will surely bring a smile to the recipient's face and serve as a concrete reminder of his importance in your life.
$50 to Charity
•If you suspect that the birthday person might not want any type of tangible gifts, donate $50 to the individual's favorite charity and encourage other friends or family members to do the same. These contributions can add up to a sizable donation by the end of the party or celebration.
Shower of 50 Gifts
•Give the recipient a small gift for each of the 50 days leading up to his 50th birthday; select small thoughtful items such as a new book by his favorite author, a bar of chocolate, a small candle or even a bottle of his preferred soda.
50 Items in Packs of 50
•Wrap a selection of 50 items grouped into collections of 50, such as 50 pencils or pens, 50 thumbtacks, 50 envelopes, 50 sheets of stationery, 50 candles, 50 cookies, 50 jelly beans or even a pack of 50 Legos or marbles for the young at heart. For the best results, stick primarily with items that can be used (or eaten) by the individual rather than giving her too many useless knick-knacks. This can be a fun project for a group of people to put together for an individual's birthday.
Fifties Music
•Give a music lover a selection of music from the 1950s. Include favorites by artists such as Elvis Presley, Nat King Cole, Rosemary Clooney and other notable musicians of that time period.
Jewelry
•Classic gifts for a 50th birthday include a watch for men and bracelets or earrings for a woman. Consider giving a gift made out of gold because many people refer to the 50's as the "golden years."
50 Experiences
•Create a coupon book of 50 experiences you want to give the birthday recipient during their 50th year. Depending upon your relationship to the recipient, these experiences might include romance (dinner on the beach), adventure (a sky diving session) or pampering (spa day).
Flowers
•Send a woman celebrating this milestone birthday 50 flowers for a striking and dramatic birthday tribute. While many people traditionally send red roses, you could also consider tulips or another flower favored by the recipient.
50 Memories Canister
•Decorate an empty canister by gluing photos, newspaper clippings or other items onto it. Tear a sheet or two of paper into 50 small strips. On each strip of paper, write a favorite memory of the birthday man or woman. This inexpensive gift will surely bring a smile to the recipient's face and serve as a concrete reminder of his importance in your life.
$50 to Charity
•If you suspect that the birthday person might not want any type of tangible gifts, donate $50 to the individual's favorite charity and encourage other friends or family members to do the same. These contributions can add up to a sizable donation by the end of the party or celebration.
50th Birthday Party Ideas for Men
Most people enjoy going to 50th birthday parties. These parties are full of fun and laughter, as well as moments that are a bit more sentimental. If you are hosting a 50th birthday party for someone try to choose party favors that stick with the theme of the day---memories, growing older and humor. Here are some 50th birthday party favor ideas for men that will give you a good jump-start on planning your party favors. These are sure to be a big hit with your party guests. You can go with a single theme, or combine themes.
Gold Themed Party Favors
Since the age 50 is considered the golden age, party favors that have a gold theme are always a big hit. Ideas for party favors include gold wrapped candies and cigars, gold key chains and pens, and a musical CD of golden oldies. Other ideas include gold plated golf tees, flasks and money clips.
Memory-Themed Party Favors
Since most of the people who attend a person's 50th birthday have been in the person's life for years, putting together memory-themed party favors is always a favorite. This can include a small framed picture of the gang, a small photo album with pictures from the past, a piece of memorabilia that brings back memories---such as a plastic set of platform shoes or matchbooks from a place where the gang used to hang out.
Funny Party Favors
Most of the people that attend a person's 50th birthday are generally around the same age as the birthday person. A fun theme for party favors include goody bags stocked full of vitamins and herbs that cater to the elderly, a geriatric diaper, a pamphlet on senior retirement homes/centers and a framed picture of an old person saying something funny that reminds the birthday party guests that growing older is something no one can control.
Gold Themed Party Favors
Since the age 50 is considered the golden age, party favors that have a gold theme are always a big hit. Ideas for party favors include gold wrapped candies and cigars, gold key chains and pens, and a musical CD of golden oldies. Other ideas include gold plated golf tees, flasks and money clips.
Memory-Themed Party Favors
Since most of the people who attend a person's 50th birthday have been in the person's life for years, putting together memory-themed party favors is always a favorite. This can include a small framed picture of the gang, a small photo album with pictures from the past, a piece of memorabilia that brings back memories---such as a plastic set of platform shoes or matchbooks from a place where the gang used to hang out.
Funny Party Favors
Most of the people that attend a person's 50th birthday are generally around the same age as the birthday person. A fun theme for party favors include goody bags stocked full of vitamins and herbs that cater to the elderly, a geriatric diaper, a pamphlet on senior retirement homes/centers and a framed picture of an old person saying something funny that reminds the birthday party guests that growing older is something no one can control.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
The Man Rules
-The Man Rules-
At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down.. Finally , the guys' side of the story.. ( I must admit, it's pretty good.)
We always hear "the rules from the female side". Now here are the rules from the male side.
These are our rules! Please note.. these are all numbered "1" ON PURPOSE!
1. Men are NOT mind readers.
1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.
1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.
1. Crying is blackmail.
1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!
1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.
1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That’s what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.
1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become Null and void after 7 Days.
1. If you think you're fat, you probably are..Don't ask us.
1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.
1. You can either ask us to do something, Or tell us how you want it done. Not both.If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.
1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.
1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.
1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.
1. If it itches, it will be scratched. We do that.
1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing", We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.
1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.
1.. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really!
1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as football or motor sports.
1. You have enough clothes.
1. You have too many shoes.
1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!
1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight; But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.
Pass this to as many men as you can - to give them a laugh.
Pass this to as many women as you can - to give them a bigger laugh.
At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down.. Finally , the guys' side of the story.. ( I must admit, it's pretty good.)
We always hear "the rules from the female side". Now here are the rules from the male side.
These are our rules! Please note.. these are all numbered "1" ON PURPOSE!
1. Men are NOT mind readers.
1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.
1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.
1. Crying is blackmail.
1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!
1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.
1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That’s what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.
1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become Null and void after 7 Days.
1. If you think you're fat, you probably are..Don't ask us.
1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.
1. You can either ask us to do something, Or tell us how you want it done. Not both.If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.
1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.
1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.
1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.
1. If it itches, it will be scratched. We do that.
1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing", We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.
1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.
1.. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really!
1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as football or motor sports.
1. You have enough clothes.
1. You have too many shoes.
1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!
1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight; But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.
Pass this to as many men as you can - to give them a laugh.
Pass this to as many women as you can - to give them a bigger laugh.
Speech of President Benigno C. Aquino III
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
======================
His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.
Ang pagtayo ko dito ngayon ay patunay na kayo ang aking tunay na lakas. Hindi ko inakala na darating tayo sa puntong ito, na ako’y manunumpa sa harap ninyo bilang inyong Pangulo. Hindi ko pinangarap maging tagapagtaguyod ng pag-asa at tagapagmana ng mga suliranin ng ating bayan.
Ang layunin ko sa buhay ay simple lang: maging tapat sa aking mga magulang at sa bayan bilang isang marangal na anak, mabait na kuya, at mabuting mamamayan.
Nilabanan ng aking ama ang diktaturya at ibinuwis niya ang kanyang buhay para tubusin ang ating demokrasya. Inalay ng aking ina ang kanyang buhay upang pangalagaan ang demokrasyang ito. Ilalaan ko ang aking buhay para siguraduhin na ang ating demokrasya ay kapaki-pakinabang sa bawat isa. Namuhunan na kami ng dugo at handang gawin itong muli kung kinakailangan.
Tanyag man ang aking mga magulang at ang kanilang mga nagawa, alam ko rin ang problema ng ordinaryong mamamayan. Alam nating lahat ang pakiramdam na magkaroon ng pamahalaang bulag at bingi. Alam natin ang pakiramdam na mapagkaitan ng hustisya, na mabalewala ng mga taong pinagkatiwalaan at inatasan nating maging ating tagapagtanggol.
Kayo ba ay minsan ring nalimutan ng pamahalaang inyong iniluklok sa puwesto? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay nagtiis na sa trapiko para lamang masingitan ng isang naghahari-hariang de-wangwang sa kalsada? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay sawang-sawa na sa pamahalaang sa halip na magsilbi sa taumbayan ay kailangan pa nila itong pagpasensiyahan at tiisin? Ako rin.
Katulad ninyo ako. Marami na sa atin ang bumoto gamit ang kanilang paa—nilisan na nila ang ating bansa sa kanilang paghahanap ng pagbabago at katahimikan. Tiniis nila ang hirap, sinugod ang panganib sa ibang bansa dahil doon may pag-asa kahit kaunti na dito sa atin ay hindi nila nakikita. Sa iilang sandali na sarili ko lang ang aking inaalala, pati ako ay napag-isip din—talaga bang hindi na mababago ang pamamahala natin dito? Hindi kaya nasa ibang bansa ang katahimikang hinahanap ko? Saan ba nakasulat na kailangang puro pagtitiis ang tadhana ng Pilipino?
Ngayon, sa araw na ito—dito magwawakas ang pamumunong manhid sa mga daing ng taumbayan. Hindi si Noynoy ang gumawa ng paraan, kayo ang dahilan kung bakit ngayon, magtatapos na ang pagtitiis ng sambayanan. Ito naman ang umpisa ng kalbaryo ko, ngunit kung marami tayong magpapasan ng krus ay kakayanin natin ito, gaano man kabigat.
Sa tulong ng wastong pamamahala sa mga darating na taon, maiibsan din ang marami nating problema. Ang tadhana ng Pilipino ay babalik sa tamang kalagayan, na sa bawat taon pabawas ng pabawas ang problema ng Pinoy na nagsusumikap at may kasiguruhan sila na magiging tuloy-tuloy na ang pagbuti ng kanilang sitwasyon.
Kami ay narito para magsilbi at hindi para maghari. Ang mandato ninyo sa amin ay pagbabago—isang malinaw na utos para ayusin ang gobyerno at lipunan mula sa pamahalaang iilan lamang ang nakikinabang tungo sa isang pamahalaang kabutihan ng mamamayan ang pinangangalagaan.
Ang mandatong ito ay isa kung saan kayo at ang inyong pangulo ay nagkasundo para sa pagbabago—isang paninindigan na ipinangako ko noong kampanya at tinanggap ninyo noong araw ng halalan.
Sigaw natin noong kampanya: “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.” Hindi lamang ito pang slogan o pang poster—ito ang mga prinsipyong tinatayuan at nagsisilbing batayan ng ating administrasyon.
Ang ating pangunahing tungkulin ay ang magsikap na maiangat ang bansa mula sa kahirapan, sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng katapatan at mabuting pamamalakad sa pamahalaan.
Ang unang hakbang ay ang pagkakaroon ng tuwid at tapat na hanay ng mga pinuno. Magsisimula ito sa akin. Sisikapin kong maging isang mabuting ehemplo. Hinding hindi ko sasayangin ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob ninyo sa akin. Sisiguraduhin ko na ganito rin ang adhikain ng aking Gabinete at ng mga magiging kasama sa ating pamahalaan.
Naniniwala akong hindi lahat ng nagsisilbi sa gobyerno ay corrupt. Sa katunayan, mas marami sa kanila ay tapat. Pinili nilang maglingkod sa gobyerno upang gumawa ng kabutihan. Ngayon, magkakaroon na sila ng pagkakataong magpakitang-gilas. Inaasahan natin sila sa pagsupil ng korapsyon sa loob mismo ng burukrasya.
Sa mga itinalaga sa paraang labag sa batas, ito ang aking babala: sisimulan natin ang pagbabalik ng tiwala sa pamamagitan ng pag-usisa sa mga “midnight appointments.” Sana ay magsilbi itong babala sa mga nag-iisip na ipagpatuloy ang baluktot na kalakarang nakasanayan na ng marami.
Sa mga kapuspalad nating mga kababayan, ngayon, ang pamahalaan ang inyong kampeon.
Hindi natin ipagpapaliban ang mga pangangailangan ng ating mga estudyante, kaya’t sisikapin nating punan ang kakulangan sa ating mga silid-aralan.
Unti-unti din nating babawasan ang mga kakulangan sa imprastraktura para sa transportasyon, turismo at pangangalakal. Mula ngayon, hindi na puwede ang “puwede na” pagdating sa mga kalye, tulay at gusali dahil magiging responsibilidad ng mga kontratista ang panatilihing nasa mabuting kalagayan ang mga proyekto nila.
Bubuhayin natin ang programang “emergency employment” ng dating pangulong Corazon Aquino sa pagtatayo ng mga bagong imprastraktura na ito. Ito ay magbibigay ng trabaho sa mga local na komunidad at makakatulong sa pagpapalago ng kanila at ng ating ekonomiya.
Hindi kami magiging sanhi ng inyong pasakit at perwisyo. Palalakasin natin ang koleksyon at pupuksain natin ang korapsyon sa Kawanihan ng Rentas Internas at Bureau of Customs para mapondohan natin ang ating mga hinahangad para sa lahat, tulad ng:
• dekalidad na edukasyon, kabilang ang edukasyong bokasyonal para makapaghanap ng marangal na trabaho ang hindi makapag-kolehiyo;
• serbisyong pangkalusugan, tulad ng Philhealth para sa lahat sa loob ng tatlong taon;
• tirahan sa loob ng mga ligtas na komunidad.
Palalakasin at palalaguin natin ang bilang ng ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan, hindi para tugunan ang interes ng mga naghahari-harian, ngunit para proteksyunan ang mamamayan. Itinataya nila ang kanilang buhay para mayroong pagkakataon sa katahimikan at kapayapaan sa sambayanan. Dumoble na ang populasyong kanilang binabantayan, nanatili naman sila sa bilang. Hindi tama na ang nagmamalasakit ay kinakawawa.
Kung dati ay may fertilizer scam, ngayon ay may kalinga na tunay para sa mga magsasaka. Tutulungan natin sila sa irigasyon, extension services, at sa pagbenta ng kanilang produkto sa pinakamataas na presyong maaari.
Inaatasan natin si papasok na Kalihim Alcala na magtayo ng mga trading centers kung saan diretso na ang magsasaka sa mamimili - lalaktawan natin ang gitna, kasama na ang kotong cop. Sa ganitong paraan, ang dating napupunta sa gitna ay maari nang paghatian ng magsasaka at mamimili.
Gagawin nating kaaya-aya sa negosyante ang ating bansa. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance, to business. Sa ganitong paraan lamang natin mapupunan ang kakulangan ng trabaho para sa ating mga mamamayan.
Layunin nating paramihin ang trabaho dito sa ating bansa upang hindi na kailanganin ang mangibang-bansa para makahanap ng trabaho. Ngunit habang ito ay hindi pa natin naaabot, inaatasan ko ang mga kawani ng DFA, POEA, OWWA at iba pang mga kinauukulang ahensiya na mas lalo pang paigtingin ang pagtugon sa mga hinaing at pangangailangan ng ating mga overseas Filipino workers.
Papaigtingin namin ang proseso ng konsultasyon at pag-uulat sa taumbayan. Sisikapin naming isakatuparan ang nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon na kinikilala ang karapatan ng mamamayan na magkaroon ng kaalaman ukol sa mga pampublikong alintana.
Binuhay natin ang diwa ng people power noong kampanya. Ipagpatuloy natin ito tungo sa tuwid at tapat na pamamahala. Ang naniniwala sa people power ay nakatuon sa kapwa at hindi sa sarili.
Sa mga nang-api sa akin, kaya ko kayong patawarin, at pinapatawad ko na kayo. Sa mga nang-api sa sambayanan, wala akong karapatan na limutin ang inyong mga kasalanan.
To those who are talking about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. Sa paglimot ng pagkakasala, sinisigurado mong mauulit muli ang mga pagkakasalang ito. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.
Ikinagagalak din naming ibahagi sa inyo ang pagtanggap ni dating Chief Justice Hilario Davide sa hamon ng pagtatatag at pamumuno sa isang Truth Commission na magbibigay linaw sa maraming kahinahinalang isyu na hanggang ngayon ay walang kasagutan at resolusyon.
Ang sinumang nagkamali ay kailangang humarap sa hustisya. Hindi maaaring patuloy ang kalakaran ng walang pananagutan at tuloy na pang-aapi.
My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflicts, inclusive of the interests of all – may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.
We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. Sa tamang pamamahala gaganda ang buhay ng lahat, at sa buhay na maganda, sino pa ang gugustuhing bumalik sa panahon ng pang-aapi?
Kung kasama ko kayo, maitataguyod natin ang isang bayan kung saan pantay-pantay ang pagkakataon, dahil pantay-pantay nating ginagampanan ang ating mga pananagutan.
Kamakailan lamang, ang bawat isa sa atin ay nanindigan sa presinto. Bumoto tayo ayon sa ating karapatan at konsensiya. Hindi tayo umatras sa tungkulin nating ipaglaban ang karapatang ito.
Pagkatapos ng bilangan, pinatunayan ninyo na ang tao ang tunay na lakas ng bayan.
Ito ang kahalagahan ng ating demokrasya. Ito ang pundasyon ng ating pagkakaisa. Nangampanya tayo para sa pagbabago. Dahil dito taas-noo muli ang Pilipino. Tayong lahat ay kabilang sa isang bansa kung saan maaari nang mangarap muli.
To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.
We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”
Inaanyayahan ko kayo ngayon na manumpa sa ating mga sarili, sa sambayanan, WALANG MAIIWAN.
Walang pangingibang-bayan at gastusan na walang wastong dahilan. Walang pagtatalikod sa mga salitang binitawan noong kampanya, ngayon at hanggang sa mga susunod pang pagsubok na pagdadaanan sa loob ng anim na taon.
Walang lamangan, walang padrino at walang pagnanakaw. Walang wang-wang, walang counterflow, walang tong. Panahon na upang tayo ay muling magkawang-gawa.
Nandito tayo ngayon dahil sama-sama tayong nanindigan at nagtiwala na may pag-asa.
The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. Sa inyong mga nag-iisip pa kung tutulong kayo sa pagpasan ng ating krus, isa lang ang aking tanong – kung kailan tayo nanalo, saka pa ba kayo susuko?
Kayo ang boss ko, kaya’t hindi maaaring hindi ako makinig sa mga utos ninyo. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to the people’s needs and aspirations.
Kayo ang nagdala sa akin sa puntong ito—ang ating mga volunteers—matanda, bata, celebrity, ordinaryong tao, na umikot sa Pilipinas para ikampanya ang pagbabago; ang aking mga kasambahay, na nag-asikaso ng lahat ng aking mga personal na pangangailangan; ang aking pamilya, kaibigan at katrabaho, na dumamay, nag-alaga at nagbigay ng suporta sa akin; ang ating mga abogado, na nagpuyat para bantayan ang ating mga boto at siguraduhing mabibilang ang bawat isa; ang aking mga kapartido at kaalyado na kasama kong nangahas mangarap; at ang milyun-milyong Pilipinong nagkaisa, nagtiwala at hindi nawalan ng pag-asa—nasa inyo ang aking taus-pusong pasasalamat.
Hindi ko makakayang harapin ang aking mga magulang, at kayong mga nagdala sa akin sa yugto ng buhay kong ito, kung hindi ko maisasakatuparan ang aking mga binitawang salita sa araw na ito.
My parents sought nothing less and died for nothing less than democracy, peace and prosperity. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.
Layunin ko na sa pagbaba ko sa katungkulan, masasabi ng lahat na malayo na ang narating natin sa pagtahak ng tuwid na landas at mas maganda na ang kinabukasang ipapamana natin sa susunod na henerasyon. Samahan ninyo ako sa pagtatapos ng laban na ito. Tayo na sa tuwid na landas.
Maraming salamat po at mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino!
=======================
======================
His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.
Ang pagtayo ko dito ngayon ay patunay na kayo ang aking tunay na lakas. Hindi ko inakala na darating tayo sa puntong ito, na ako’y manunumpa sa harap ninyo bilang inyong Pangulo. Hindi ko pinangarap maging tagapagtaguyod ng pag-asa at tagapagmana ng mga suliranin ng ating bayan.
Ang layunin ko sa buhay ay simple lang: maging tapat sa aking mga magulang at sa bayan bilang isang marangal na anak, mabait na kuya, at mabuting mamamayan.
Nilabanan ng aking ama ang diktaturya at ibinuwis niya ang kanyang buhay para tubusin ang ating demokrasya. Inalay ng aking ina ang kanyang buhay upang pangalagaan ang demokrasyang ito. Ilalaan ko ang aking buhay para siguraduhin na ang ating demokrasya ay kapaki-pakinabang sa bawat isa. Namuhunan na kami ng dugo at handang gawin itong muli kung kinakailangan.
Tanyag man ang aking mga magulang at ang kanilang mga nagawa, alam ko rin ang problema ng ordinaryong mamamayan. Alam nating lahat ang pakiramdam na magkaroon ng pamahalaang bulag at bingi. Alam natin ang pakiramdam na mapagkaitan ng hustisya, na mabalewala ng mga taong pinagkatiwalaan at inatasan nating maging ating tagapagtanggol.
Kayo ba ay minsan ring nalimutan ng pamahalaang inyong iniluklok sa puwesto? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay nagtiis na sa trapiko para lamang masingitan ng isang naghahari-hariang de-wangwang sa kalsada? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay sawang-sawa na sa pamahalaang sa halip na magsilbi sa taumbayan ay kailangan pa nila itong pagpasensiyahan at tiisin? Ako rin.
Katulad ninyo ako. Marami na sa atin ang bumoto gamit ang kanilang paa—nilisan na nila ang ating bansa sa kanilang paghahanap ng pagbabago at katahimikan. Tiniis nila ang hirap, sinugod ang panganib sa ibang bansa dahil doon may pag-asa kahit kaunti na dito sa atin ay hindi nila nakikita. Sa iilang sandali na sarili ko lang ang aking inaalala, pati ako ay napag-isip din—talaga bang hindi na mababago ang pamamahala natin dito? Hindi kaya nasa ibang bansa ang katahimikang hinahanap ko? Saan ba nakasulat na kailangang puro pagtitiis ang tadhana ng Pilipino?
Ngayon, sa araw na ito—dito magwawakas ang pamumunong manhid sa mga daing ng taumbayan. Hindi si Noynoy ang gumawa ng paraan, kayo ang dahilan kung bakit ngayon, magtatapos na ang pagtitiis ng sambayanan. Ito naman ang umpisa ng kalbaryo ko, ngunit kung marami tayong magpapasan ng krus ay kakayanin natin ito, gaano man kabigat.
Sa tulong ng wastong pamamahala sa mga darating na taon, maiibsan din ang marami nating problema. Ang tadhana ng Pilipino ay babalik sa tamang kalagayan, na sa bawat taon pabawas ng pabawas ang problema ng Pinoy na nagsusumikap at may kasiguruhan sila na magiging tuloy-tuloy na ang pagbuti ng kanilang sitwasyon.
Kami ay narito para magsilbi at hindi para maghari. Ang mandato ninyo sa amin ay pagbabago—isang malinaw na utos para ayusin ang gobyerno at lipunan mula sa pamahalaang iilan lamang ang nakikinabang tungo sa isang pamahalaang kabutihan ng mamamayan ang pinangangalagaan.
Ang mandatong ito ay isa kung saan kayo at ang inyong pangulo ay nagkasundo para sa pagbabago—isang paninindigan na ipinangako ko noong kampanya at tinanggap ninyo noong araw ng halalan.
Sigaw natin noong kampanya: “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.” Hindi lamang ito pang slogan o pang poster—ito ang mga prinsipyong tinatayuan at nagsisilbing batayan ng ating administrasyon.
Ang ating pangunahing tungkulin ay ang magsikap na maiangat ang bansa mula sa kahirapan, sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng katapatan at mabuting pamamalakad sa pamahalaan.
Ang unang hakbang ay ang pagkakaroon ng tuwid at tapat na hanay ng mga pinuno. Magsisimula ito sa akin. Sisikapin kong maging isang mabuting ehemplo. Hinding hindi ko sasayangin ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob ninyo sa akin. Sisiguraduhin ko na ganito rin ang adhikain ng aking Gabinete at ng mga magiging kasama sa ating pamahalaan.
Naniniwala akong hindi lahat ng nagsisilbi sa gobyerno ay corrupt. Sa katunayan, mas marami sa kanila ay tapat. Pinili nilang maglingkod sa gobyerno upang gumawa ng kabutihan. Ngayon, magkakaroon na sila ng pagkakataong magpakitang-gilas. Inaasahan natin sila sa pagsupil ng korapsyon sa loob mismo ng burukrasya.
Sa mga itinalaga sa paraang labag sa batas, ito ang aking babala: sisimulan natin ang pagbabalik ng tiwala sa pamamagitan ng pag-usisa sa mga “midnight appointments.” Sana ay magsilbi itong babala sa mga nag-iisip na ipagpatuloy ang baluktot na kalakarang nakasanayan na ng marami.
Sa mga kapuspalad nating mga kababayan, ngayon, ang pamahalaan ang inyong kampeon.
Hindi natin ipagpapaliban ang mga pangangailangan ng ating mga estudyante, kaya’t sisikapin nating punan ang kakulangan sa ating mga silid-aralan.
Unti-unti din nating babawasan ang mga kakulangan sa imprastraktura para sa transportasyon, turismo at pangangalakal. Mula ngayon, hindi na puwede ang “puwede na” pagdating sa mga kalye, tulay at gusali dahil magiging responsibilidad ng mga kontratista ang panatilihing nasa mabuting kalagayan ang mga proyekto nila.
Bubuhayin natin ang programang “emergency employment” ng dating pangulong Corazon Aquino sa pagtatayo ng mga bagong imprastraktura na ito. Ito ay magbibigay ng trabaho sa mga local na komunidad at makakatulong sa pagpapalago ng kanila at ng ating ekonomiya.
Hindi kami magiging sanhi ng inyong pasakit at perwisyo. Palalakasin natin ang koleksyon at pupuksain natin ang korapsyon sa Kawanihan ng Rentas Internas at Bureau of Customs para mapondohan natin ang ating mga hinahangad para sa lahat, tulad ng:
• dekalidad na edukasyon, kabilang ang edukasyong bokasyonal para makapaghanap ng marangal na trabaho ang hindi makapag-kolehiyo;
• serbisyong pangkalusugan, tulad ng Philhealth para sa lahat sa loob ng tatlong taon;
• tirahan sa loob ng mga ligtas na komunidad.
Palalakasin at palalaguin natin ang bilang ng ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan, hindi para tugunan ang interes ng mga naghahari-harian, ngunit para proteksyunan ang mamamayan. Itinataya nila ang kanilang buhay para mayroong pagkakataon sa katahimikan at kapayapaan sa sambayanan. Dumoble na ang populasyong kanilang binabantayan, nanatili naman sila sa bilang. Hindi tama na ang nagmamalasakit ay kinakawawa.
Kung dati ay may fertilizer scam, ngayon ay may kalinga na tunay para sa mga magsasaka. Tutulungan natin sila sa irigasyon, extension services, at sa pagbenta ng kanilang produkto sa pinakamataas na presyong maaari.
Inaatasan natin si papasok na Kalihim Alcala na magtayo ng mga trading centers kung saan diretso na ang magsasaka sa mamimili - lalaktawan natin ang gitna, kasama na ang kotong cop. Sa ganitong paraan, ang dating napupunta sa gitna ay maari nang paghatian ng magsasaka at mamimili.
Gagawin nating kaaya-aya sa negosyante ang ating bansa. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance, to business. Sa ganitong paraan lamang natin mapupunan ang kakulangan ng trabaho para sa ating mga mamamayan.
Layunin nating paramihin ang trabaho dito sa ating bansa upang hindi na kailanganin ang mangibang-bansa para makahanap ng trabaho. Ngunit habang ito ay hindi pa natin naaabot, inaatasan ko ang mga kawani ng DFA, POEA, OWWA at iba pang mga kinauukulang ahensiya na mas lalo pang paigtingin ang pagtugon sa mga hinaing at pangangailangan ng ating mga overseas Filipino workers.
Papaigtingin namin ang proseso ng konsultasyon at pag-uulat sa taumbayan. Sisikapin naming isakatuparan ang nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon na kinikilala ang karapatan ng mamamayan na magkaroon ng kaalaman ukol sa mga pampublikong alintana.
Binuhay natin ang diwa ng people power noong kampanya. Ipagpatuloy natin ito tungo sa tuwid at tapat na pamamahala. Ang naniniwala sa people power ay nakatuon sa kapwa at hindi sa sarili.
Sa mga nang-api sa akin, kaya ko kayong patawarin, at pinapatawad ko na kayo. Sa mga nang-api sa sambayanan, wala akong karapatan na limutin ang inyong mga kasalanan.
To those who are talking about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. Sa paglimot ng pagkakasala, sinisigurado mong mauulit muli ang mga pagkakasalang ito. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.
Ikinagagalak din naming ibahagi sa inyo ang pagtanggap ni dating Chief Justice Hilario Davide sa hamon ng pagtatatag at pamumuno sa isang Truth Commission na magbibigay linaw sa maraming kahinahinalang isyu na hanggang ngayon ay walang kasagutan at resolusyon.
Ang sinumang nagkamali ay kailangang humarap sa hustisya. Hindi maaaring patuloy ang kalakaran ng walang pananagutan at tuloy na pang-aapi.
My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflicts, inclusive of the interests of all – may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.
We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. Sa tamang pamamahala gaganda ang buhay ng lahat, at sa buhay na maganda, sino pa ang gugustuhing bumalik sa panahon ng pang-aapi?
Kung kasama ko kayo, maitataguyod natin ang isang bayan kung saan pantay-pantay ang pagkakataon, dahil pantay-pantay nating ginagampanan ang ating mga pananagutan.
Kamakailan lamang, ang bawat isa sa atin ay nanindigan sa presinto. Bumoto tayo ayon sa ating karapatan at konsensiya. Hindi tayo umatras sa tungkulin nating ipaglaban ang karapatang ito.
Pagkatapos ng bilangan, pinatunayan ninyo na ang tao ang tunay na lakas ng bayan.
Ito ang kahalagahan ng ating demokrasya. Ito ang pundasyon ng ating pagkakaisa. Nangampanya tayo para sa pagbabago. Dahil dito taas-noo muli ang Pilipino. Tayong lahat ay kabilang sa isang bansa kung saan maaari nang mangarap muli.
To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.
We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”
Inaanyayahan ko kayo ngayon na manumpa sa ating mga sarili, sa sambayanan, WALANG MAIIWAN.
Walang pangingibang-bayan at gastusan na walang wastong dahilan. Walang pagtatalikod sa mga salitang binitawan noong kampanya, ngayon at hanggang sa mga susunod pang pagsubok na pagdadaanan sa loob ng anim na taon.
Walang lamangan, walang padrino at walang pagnanakaw. Walang wang-wang, walang counterflow, walang tong. Panahon na upang tayo ay muling magkawang-gawa.
Nandito tayo ngayon dahil sama-sama tayong nanindigan at nagtiwala na may pag-asa.
The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. Sa inyong mga nag-iisip pa kung tutulong kayo sa pagpasan ng ating krus, isa lang ang aking tanong – kung kailan tayo nanalo, saka pa ba kayo susuko?
Kayo ang boss ko, kaya’t hindi maaaring hindi ako makinig sa mga utos ninyo. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to the people’s needs and aspirations.
Kayo ang nagdala sa akin sa puntong ito—ang ating mga volunteers—matanda, bata, celebrity, ordinaryong tao, na umikot sa Pilipinas para ikampanya ang pagbabago; ang aking mga kasambahay, na nag-asikaso ng lahat ng aking mga personal na pangangailangan; ang aking pamilya, kaibigan at katrabaho, na dumamay, nag-alaga at nagbigay ng suporta sa akin; ang ating mga abogado, na nagpuyat para bantayan ang ating mga boto at siguraduhing mabibilang ang bawat isa; ang aking mga kapartido at kaalyado na kasama kong nangahas mangarap; at ang milyun-milyong Pilipinong nagkaisa, nagtiwala at hindi nawalan ng pag-asa—nasa inyo ang aking taus-pusong pasasalamat.
Hindi ko makakayang harapin ang aking mga magulang, at kayong mga nagdala sa akin sa yugto ng buhay kong ito, kung hindi ko maisasakatuparan ang aking mga binitawang salita sa araw na ito.
My parents sought nothing less and died for nothing less than democracy, peace and prosperity. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.
Layunin ko na sa pagbaba ko sa katungkulan, masasabi ng lahat na malayo na ang narating natin sa pagtahak ng tuwid na landas at mas maganda na ang kinabukasang ipapamana natin sa susunod na henerasyon. Samahan ninyo ako sa pagtatapos ng laban na ito. Tayo na sa tuwid na landas.
Maraming salamat po at mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino!
=======================
How much for a miracle?
I got this e-mail and I normally just delete forwarded messages. I thought this was worth posting.
======================
A little girl went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hiding place in the closet.
She poured the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times, even. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes.
Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and made her way 6 blocks to Rexall's Drug Store with the big red Indian Chief sign above the door.
She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention but he was too busy at this moment. Tess twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing. She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good. Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!
"And what do you want?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. I'm talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven't seen in ages," he said without waiting for a reply to his question.
"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother," Tess answered back in the same annoyed tone. "He's really, really sick... and I want to buy a miracle."
"I beg your pardon?" said the pharmacist.
"His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his head and my Daddy says only a miracle can save him now. So how much does a miracle cost?"
"We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but I can't help you," the pharmacist said, softening a little.
"Listen, I have the money to pay for it. If it isn't enough, I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs."
The pharmacist's brother was a well dressed man. He stooped down and asked the little girl, "What kind of a miracle does your brother need?"
"I don't know," Tess replied with her eyes welling up. I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my Daddy can't pay for it, so I want to use my money."
" How much do you have?" asked the man from Chicago.
"One dollar and eleven cents," Tess answered barely audibly.
"And it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to."
"Well, what a coincidence," smiled the man. "A dollar and eleven cents---the exact price of a miracle for little brothers."
He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said "Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your parents. Let's see if I have the miracle you need."
That well dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon, specializing in neuro-surgery. The operation was completed free of charge and it wasn't long until Andrew was home again and doing well.
Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this place.
That surgery," her Mom whispered. "was a real miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?"
Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost...one dollar and eleven cents ... plus the faith of a little child.
In our lives, we never know how many miracles we will need..
A miracle is not the suspension of natural law, but the operation of a higher law.. I know you'll keep the ball moving!
Here it goes. Throw it back to someone who means something to you!
A ball is a circle, no beginning, no end. It keeps us together like our Circle of Friends. But the treasure inside for you to see is the treasure of friendship you've granted to me.
Today I pass the friendship ball to you.
Pass it on to someone who is a friend to you.
MY OATH TO YOU...
When you are sad.....I will dry your tears.
When you are scared.....I will comfort your fears.
When you are worried.....I will give you hope.
When you are confused.....I will help you cope.
And when you are lost....And can't see the light, I shall be your beacon.....Shining ever so bright.
This is my oath.....I pledge till the end.
Why you may ask?.....Because you're my friend.
Signed: GOD
INSTANTLY WHEN YOU RECEIVE THIS LETTER, YOU ARE REQUESTED TO SEND IT TO AT LEAST 10 PEOPLE, INCLUDING THE PERSON WHO SENT IT TO YOU
======================
A little girl went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hiding place in the closet.
She poured the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times, even. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes.
Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and made her way 6 blocks to Rexall's Drug Store with the big red Indian Chief sign above the door.
She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention but he was too busy at this moment. Tess twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing. She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good. Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!
"And what do you want?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. I'm talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven't seen in ages," he said without waiting for a reply to his question.
"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother," Tess answered back in the same annoyed tone. "He's really, really sick... and I want to buy a miracle."
"I beg your pardon?" said the pharmacist.
"His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his head and my Daddy says only a miracle can save him now. So how much does a miracle cost?"
"We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but I can't help you," the pharmacist said, softening a little.
"Listen, I have the money to pay for it. If it isn't enough, I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs."
The pharmacist's brother was a well dressed man. He stooped down and asked the little girl, "What kind of a miracle does your brother need?"
"I don't know," Tess replied with her eyes welling up. I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my Daddy can't pay for it, so I want to use my money."
" How much do you have?" asked the man from Chicago.
"One dollar and eleven cents," Tess answered barely audibly.
"And it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to."
"Well, what a coincidence," smiled the man. "A dollar and eleven cents---the exact price of a miracle for little brothers."
He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said "Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your parents. Let's see if I have the miracle you need."
That well dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon, specializing in neuro-surgery. The operation was completed free of charge and it wasn't long until Andrew was home again and doing well.
Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this place.
That surgery," her Mom whispered. "was a real miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?"
Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost...one dollar and eleven cents ... plus the faith of a little child.
In our lives, we never know how many miracles we will need..
A miracle is not the suspension of natural law, but the operation of a higher law.. I know you'll keep the ball moving!
Here it goes. Throw it back to someone who means something to you!
A ball is a circle, no beginning, no end. It keeps us together like our Circle of Friends. But the treasure inside for you to see is the treasure of friendship you've granted to me.
Today I pass the friendship ball to you.
Pass it on to someone who is a friend to you.
MY OATH TO YOU...
When you are sad.....I will dry your tears.
When you are scared.....I will comfort your fears.
When you are worried.....I will give you hope.
When you are confused.....I will help you cope.
And when you are lost....And can't see the light, I shall be your beacon.....Shining ever so bright.
This is my oath.....I pledge till the end.
Why you may ask?.....Because you're my friend.
Signed: GOD
INSTANTLY WHEN YOU RECEIVE THIS LETTER, YOU ARE REQUESTED TO SEND IT TO AT LEAST 10 PEOPLE, INCLUDING THE PERSON WHO SENT IT TO YOU
Success People?
I'm always curious as to why some people are more successful than others, why some people are richer, happier and seem to live a better life.
From all my research, there is a common theme as to why some people are more successful than others. These are:
1. They already believe they are successful. Whether they are still struggling or their business are just starting, they already know they will succeed.
This positive frame of mind makes them keep going even when the going gets though. They don't quit.
2. They have a written plan. In other words, they have clear written goals. It can be a business plan or a written goals. They have something written down as a roadmap to where they want to go. This in turn keep them...
3. Focus. They have laser like focus on where they want to go and what they want to achieve.
4. They save their money. In the bible, it says, "To him that hath, shall more be given, and he shall have abundance. But from him that hath not, even that which he hath shall be taken away."
What does this mean? The way we say it now is, "The rich gets richer and the poor gets poorer." Those who accumulates money attracts more and more money. Those who don't lose what even little money they have.
Why does this happen? It come from the success principle that says, "You become what you think about most of the time." The more you think about accumulating money and do it, the more you attract money.
The more you think about spending your money and hoping you don't lose it, the more you lose money.
5. They share their wealth. The more successful a person is, the more they give. Think about it, the richest people in the world give back more money in terms of percentage than the lowest paid individual. They sometimes give 20 to 50% of their wealth to charity. That amounts to millions of dollars. But some people can't even give 1% of their income. Some people doesn't even give any.
Most of them would say, I don't have any money to give. Well, you can't afford not to give. The bible says, "Give and you shall receive." This is a universal law.
The more you give, the more you will receive. It doesn't say, "Receive and you shall give." Like any business, before you can get paid, you have to give your product or services first. To attract more success in your life, give to your fellow man first before you can expect to receive God's blessings.
It may not always be in the form of money, but you will eventually receive it.
From all my research, there is a common theme as to why some people are more successful than others. These are:
1. They already believe they are successful. Whether they are still struggling or their business are just starting, they already know they will succeed.
This positive frame of mind makes them keep going even when the going gets though. They don't quit.
2. They have a written plan. In other words, they have clear written goals. It can be a business plan or a written goals. They have something written down as a roadmap to where they want to go. This in turn keep them...
3. Focus. They have laser like focus on where they want to go and what they want to achieve.
4. They save their money. In the bible, it says, "To him that hath, shall more be given, and he shall have abundance. But from him that hath not, even that which he hath shall be taken away."
What does this mean? The way we say it now is, "The rich gets richer and the poor gets poorer." Those who accumulates money attracts more and more money. Those who don't lose what even little money they have.
Why does this happen? It come from the success principle that says, "You become what you think about most of the time." The more you think about accumulating money and do it, the more you attract money.
The more you think about spending your money and hoping you don't lose it, the more you lose money.
5. They share their wealth. The more successful a person is, the more they give. Think about it, the richest people in the world give back more money in terms of percentage than the lowest paid individual. They sometimes give 20 to 50% of their wealth to charity. That amounts to millions of dollars. But some people can't even give 1% of their income. Some people doesn't even give any.
Most of them would say, I don't have any money to give. Well, you can't afford not to give. The bible says, "Give and you shall receive." This is a universal law.
The more you give, the more you will receive. It doesn't say, "Receive and you shall give." Like any business, before you can get paid, you have to give your product or services first. To attract more success in your life, give to your fellow man first before you can expect to receive God's blessings.
It may not always be in the form of money, but you will eventually receive it.
IPhone 4
The new iPhone 4 has been announced today at Apple's WWDC conference. New features includes Retina display which quadruples the pixel count of previous iPhones making images and text sharper.
Multitasking is finally available.
Perhaps the most interesting feature for me is the new 5 megapixel camera. I know a 5 megapixel camera on a phone is not new. But Apple is usually behind in terms of integrating new technology into their devices. What Apple does is they do it better. The new camera has backside illumination that takes better pictures even in low light. The problem with most camera phones is that the sensors are so small, low light quality usually sucks.
I haven't seen how the iPhone 4 camera works yet, but it would be interesting to see if it really does work really well. That means there's no need to bring a point and shoot camera anymore if you have the iPhone.
The iPhone 4 also includes a LED flash and a forward facing camera. The camera also takes 720p HD video capture and editing.
Apple is also coming out with a new iMovie app for the iPhone for $4.99. They have got the best apps and features in any mobile phone to date. And as you know with technology, what's great today is old news tomorrow.
Another feature added is called FaceTime. This is face to face video calling, but it is only available in Wi-Fi for now. Nothing over 3G network yet. You can use both front and rear facing camera for FaceTime.
Apple has also renamed their iPhone OS to just iOS 4. This is perhaps to make it more in line with their future development extending the iOS to other devices.
There are tons of other features, for more details, visit Apple.com.
Know Your Cellphone Can Do
EMERGENCY
The Emergency Number worldwide for **Mobile** is 112
If you find yourself out of coverage area of your mobile network and there is an emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you. And interestingly, this number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. **Try it out.**
Have you locked your keys in the car? Does you car have remote keys?
This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cellphone:If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone.Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock.Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other"remote" for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).
(Try it while at home).
Hidden Battery Power
Imagine your cell battery is very low, you are expecting an important call and you don't have a charger.Nokia instrument comes with a reserve battery. To activate, press the keys *3370#. Your cell will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery.This reserve will get charged when you charge your cell next time AND...
How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following
digits on your phone: * # 0 6 #
A 15 digit code will appear on the screen.This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe.When your phone gets stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset; so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least, you know that .
Be careful while using your mobile phone
When you try to call someone through mobile phone, don't put your Mobile closer to your ears until the recipient answers. Because directly after dialling, the mobile phone would use it'smaximum signalling power, which is: 2 watts = 33dbi
Pls Be Careful.
Message as received (Save your brain) Please use left ear while using cell (mobile), because if you use the right one it will affect brain directly. This is a true fact from Apollo medical team.
The Emergency Number worldwide for **Mobile** is 112
If you find yourself out of coverage area of your mobile network and there is an emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you. And interestingly, this number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. **Try it out.**
Have you locked your keys in the car? Does you car have remote keys?
This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cellphone:If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone.Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock.Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other"remote" for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).
(Try it while at home).
Hidden Battery Power
Imagine your cell battery is very low, you are expecting an important call and you don't have a charger.Nokia instrument comes with a reserve battery. To activate, press the keys *3370#. Your cell will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery.This reserve will get charged when you charge your cell next time AND...
How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following
digits on your phone: * # 0 6 #
A 15 digit code will appear on the screen.This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe.When your phone gets stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset; so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least, you know that .
Be careful while using your mobile phone
When you try to call someone through mobile phone, don't put your Mobile closer to your ears until the recipient answers. Because directly after dialling, the mobile phone would use it'smaximum signalling power, which is: 2 watts = 33dbi
Pls Be Careful.
Message as received (Save your brain) Please use left ear while using cell (mobile), because if you use the right one it will affect brain directly. This is a true fact from Apollo medical team.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
HEB For My Groceries
After I had dinner with my husband yesterday, I went to HEB to get our groceries we need for our camping trip next week. We are leaving on Sunday but we are still trying to figure out where we are going to camp. We are torn between Lake Travis and Possum Kingdom. They are both a great lakes in Texas. So will see which lakes we are going. Anyway, when I arrived at HEB, the parking lot was so packed so it means it is also packed inside. Specially on Tuesday cause they have good deal and all are fresh. I love HEB cause the store is quite clean and very convenient for me to shop. They frequently have their shelves stocked.They also have the international food section which makes this store a good choice for foreigners. So next time you shop for your groceries, go to HEB. They are the BEST..
Monday, May 31, 2010
Happy Memorial Day
Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day. It is a day of remembrance for those who have died in the service of our nation.
Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, but it's difficult to prove the origins of the day. There is also evidence that a women's group in the South decorated graves before the end of the Civil War. In either case, Memorial Day has had numerous starts due to the human need to honor the dead. Though some people think it's a day to honor any and all dead, Memorial Day is intended to honor those who have given their all in service to our country.
Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, but it's difficult to prove the origins of the day. There is also evidence that a women's group in the South decorated graves before the end of the Civil War. In either case, Memorial Day has had numerous starts due to the human need to honor the dead. Though some people think it's a day to honor any and all dead, Memorial Day is intended to honor those who have given their all in service to our country.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
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Monday, April 26, 2010
How to Invest Small Amounts Wisely
Investing isn't just for the wealthy. If you have a few thousand or even less than a hundred dollars saved, here are some suggestions on how to make the most of it.
Note: This article assumes that you're looking for something more lucrative than high-yield savings accounts and CDs.
Note: This article assumes that you're looking for something more lucrative than high-yield savings accounts and CDs.
Steps
- Set aside a small allowance for investing. Do this first and foremost, even if you can only set aside a few dollars out of every paycheck at first. Even $5 per week will add up to an additional $260 per year.
- Next, decide whether to Invest More or Pay off any high interest debt and build up an emergency fund first. See How to Decide Whether to Invest or Pay off Debt.
- Promise yourself that you'll keep your costs of investing (fees, commissions) to less than 2% of the transaction value, no matter how much you're investing. Multiply the amount you have to invest by .02. If the trading cost is more than that, put your money in a savings account instead until you can find an investing opportunity with a better ratio.[1]
- Choose one of the investing options below.
If you have $20
- Invest directly with Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRPs) and Direct Stock Purchase Plans (DSPs). With these, you don't have to deal with brokers (or pay their commissions) because you buy stock straight from the company.
- Not all companies do this, but you still have over 1,000 to choose from.[2] You'll have to search for the companies that offer a direct purchase program, but you can find a partial list here.
- In most cases, you can make an individual purchase or set up an automatic payment plan.
- There may be a nominal commission or a minimum purchase requirement.
- The main difference between DRIPs and DSPs is that to participate in DRIPs, you must already own at least one share of the company's stock. You then collect your dividends in the form of additional shares instead of cash.[3]
- Not all companies do this, but you still have over 1,000 to choose from.[2] You'll have to search for the companies that offer a direct purchase program, but you can find a partial list here.
- If the company you want to invest in doesn't have a Drip plan, look for a broker that lets you set up Drip-like accounts with which you can buy shares of stocks with low transaction costs. Just check the following:[1]
- Does it have a monthly minimum?
- Does it have a higher charge to sell a stock? That might be an issue if you're an active trader.
- Does it have a monthly minimum?
- Look for mutual funds with a small buy-in. There are a few mutual fund companies that will allow small investors to buy in, but you'll have to agree to an automatic investment plan, whereby you let them deduct a fixed amount from your bank account every month (usually at least $25). This is usually in addition to a minimum initial investment (starting at $25).[4] See How to Select a Mutual Fund.
If you have up to $500
- Invest in an index fund which tracks the broad market. Through boom years and recessions, since its inception the S&P 500 index funds returned about 10% a year.[2] Once you make your first payment, you can add as much money as you want and as often as is convenient for you without any additional costs or commissions. Since you deal directly with mutual fund companies, you don't have to pay a broker a commission.
- The minimum varies, but with an IRA (USA only) you can invest as little as $250. (See How to Open a Roth IRA Account.)
- If you have $500, you can be a little pickier. Look for an index fund with a low expense ratio.
- The minimum varies, but with an IRA (USA only) you can invest as little as $250. (See How to Open a Roth IRA Account.)
- Consider opening a discount brokerage account. A discount broker doesn't offer all of the services of a full-service broker, but they still allow you to purchase individual companies. Some accounts require a minimum initial deposit.
- Follow the steps in the previous section, unless you're confident you can save $1000+ annually, in which case you should consider a retirement account.
Tips
- Keep track of your investments for tax purposes.
- Keep in mind that this is money for investing, and nothing else, so you need to realize that it won't be readily accessible (that's what your emergency fund is for) and that there's a chance you will lose it (so if losing that money will somehow ruin your life, don't invest it).
Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Invest Small Amounts of Money Wisely. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
Facebook's Open Graph Personalization
On April 21, 2010 Facebook introduced social plug-ins based on the Facebook Open Graph platform. This means a few things:
- If you click one of their "like" buttons anywhere on the Web, that'll automatically get published on your wall.
- When your friends "like" something, they will see if you "liked" it too.
- When you visit certain websites, a personalized version will automatically be presented to you, rather than what is presented to the general public.
All of these changes are intended to make your Internet experience more social, but if you're concerned about your privacy, here's how to stop these changes from affecting you.
Overall Steps - Log out of Facebook by using the "Logout" button whenever you're done using it. This will prevent Facebook from affecting the way you see the rest of the Internet. Simply closing your browser window to log out will leave your Facebook session active in the background. A more effective, but more radical method would be to permanently quit Facebook altogether.
Your Likes
- Hide your "likes". Select "Account", then "Privacy Settings" then to "Profile Information".
In the dropdown menu, choose "Customize". From "These People" dropdown menu, choose "Only Me".
For an extra measure of privacy, edit your profile and erase all of your likes and interests, so they can't be "connected" to other pages on Facebook. If you want, move that kind of information to the "About Me" section.
Instant Personalization - On Facebook, select "Account", then go to your "Privacy Settings" then to "Applications and Websites" . Uncheck the "Instant Personalization" box at the bottom. (This may be under: Account/Account Settings/Privacy/Application and Websites)
- Confirm your decision. The note will say "Allowing instant personalization will give you a richer experience as you browse the web. If you opt-out, you will have to manually activate these experiences. Please keep in mind that if you opt out, your friends may still share public Facebook information about you to personalize their experience on these partner sites unless you block the application." To prevent your friends from sharing information about you, continue to the next steps.
- Go back to "Applications and Websites" under "Privacy Settings". Edit your settings for the "What your friends can share about you." Uncheck every box and save.
- Block individual applications. You will have to visit each application and block it individually. Currently, there are three, but as more are added you will need to manually block those, too. Visit the following app pages, click on "Block Application" and confirm.
Tips
- While you're at it, check to see which applications you have authorized. Remove any that you don't use, and edit the settings for any that you do use.
- If you are really concerned about your privacy on Facebook, you can simply stop using it altogether.
Your Wet Hair Look Good
Do you prefer keeping your hair wet? Do you want your hair to be wet and still look good? Follow these steps and achieve the best results!Steps
- Wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner then rinse.
- Squeeze out excess water, or use a towel to dry your hair.After this, your hair will have "curls"
- Take about a teaspoon of conditioner and apply it to your hair, massaging it in. Apply more conditioner if needed.
- Try a gel or mousse if you are not satisfied with the conditioner.
Tips
- If your hair is naturally straight, and you are going for the curly-wet look, after applying the conditioner, do not comb or brush your hair.
- Remember to leave the conditioner in your hair for about 10-20 seconds before washing it off. This goes with bleached and dyed hair. If you do it sooner most of the time your hair gets messed up.
Warnings
- Make sure you squeeze out all excess water, or lightly towel dry your hair as leaving it soaking wet will wet the clothes you are wearing, leaving an ugly mark on them.
- If you have thick hair, it will take the whole day at school to dry on its own.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
The 9 Paths To Happiness
Sometimes it appears that life throws more obstacles in our path than we can handle. However, even in the face of the most challenging circumstances, you can make the choice to be happy by following these 9 paths to happiness.
1. Honor Yourself: Remember what the flight attendant says, "Put your own oxygen mask on first." You are of no use to anyone else if you have not taken care of your own needs first - this includes
your own emotional, as well as physical, well-being.
2. Forgive Everyone For Everything: Forgiveness is a gift to yourself. YOU created the stress in your life by getting angry, and YOU can instantly remove that stress by granting forgiveness. Expressing your forgiveness to the other is optional - internalizing that forgiveness is required in order to live a joyful life. Don't forget to also forgive yourself for everything you regret ever having done or not done.
3. Have Gratitude For All Of Life: As with forgiveness, gratitude is a gift to yourself. Saying "thank you" is a powerful way to create great relationships, but the real power of gratitude is internalizing an immense thankfulness for your very existence - everything that has ever occurred or failed to occur in your life.
4. Respect Your Mind: Faith is powerful, but it is no substitute for observing, paying attention, weighing alternatives, and choosing with intention. Without conscious choice, there is no freedom or happiness.
5. Design Your Future: Don't be a passive tumbleweed blown by the winds of life. Envision the future you want, and then take action to create that future. Often, you will fail. Plan again and take action again.
6. Begin Today, and Never Give Up: There is no better time to begin than today - each and every "today." When obstacles stop you, think of new ways to reach your goals. In the words of the Oriental proverb, "Fall seven times, stand up eight."
7. Be Of Service To Others By Radiating Happiness: Being of service is one of the greatest paths to happiness, but remember that your greatest service to others is the person that you are, rather than the tasks you accomplish. Your greatest gift to others is to give them happiness, and by far the most powerful way to do that is to be an example of happiness and to radiate that happiness to others.
8. Dance Lightly With Life: Life does not have to be a serious undertaking. You will make mistakes, you will feel regrets, and eventually, you will die - so what? Happiness comes from dancing lightly with life - playing hopscotch on the river of life - leaping gracefully from joy to joy while laughing at the threats of calamity - even laughing hysterically at our human frailness when we do fall into the muddy torrent.
9. Know Unity With Spirit: There are as many ways to connect with Spirit as there are people - each of us has our own way to receive strength and serenity from the Infinite. Your life will be happier if you acknowledge that you are not alone, become open to that presence, and create ritual to celebrate your connection. You may feel your bond with Spirit at the Lord's Supper, in Songs of Praise, in Calls to Prayer, in Meditation, while doing Yoga or Qigong, or while walking in the woods. However you connect with Spirit, do it today.
1. Honor Yourself: Remember what the flight attendant says, "Put your own oxygen mask on first." You are of no use to anyone else if you have not taken care of your own needs first - this includes
your own emotional, as well as physical, well-being.2. Forgive Everyone For Everything: Forgiveness is a gift to yourself. YOU created the stress in your life by getting angry, and YOU can instantly remove that stress by granting forgiveness. Expressing your forgiveness to the other is optional - internalizing that forgiveness is required in order to live a joyful life. Don't forget to also forgive yourself for everything you regret ever having done or not done.
3. Have Gratitude For All Of Life: As with forgiveness, gratitude is a gift to yourself. Saying "thank you" is a powerful way to create great relationships, but the real power of gratitude is internalizing an immense thankfulness for your very existence - everything that has ever occurred or failed to occur in your life.
4. Respect Your Mind: Faith is powerful, but it is no substitute for observing, paying attention, weighing alternatives, and choosing with intention. Without conscious choice, there is no freedom or happiness.
5. Design Your Future: Don't be a passive tumbleweed blown by the winds of life. Envision the future you want, and then take action to create that future. Often, you will fail. Plan again and take action again.
6. Begin Today, and Never Give Up: There is no better time to begin than today - each and every "today." When obstacles stop you, think of new ways to reach your goals. In the words of the Oriental proverb, "Fall seven times, stand up eight."
7. Be Of Service To Others By Radiating Happiness: Being of service is one of the greatest paths to happiness, but remember that your greatest service to others is the person that you are, rather than the tasks you accomplish. Your greatest gift to others is to give them happiness, and by far the most powerful way to do that is to be an example of happiness and to radiate that happiness to others.
8. Dance Lightly With Life: Life does not have to be a serious undertaking. You will make mistakes, you will feel regrets, and eventually, you will die - so what? Happiness comes from dancing lightly with life - playing hopscotch on the river of life - leaping gracefully from joy to joy while laughing at the threats of calamity - even laughing hysterically at our human frailness when we do fall into the muddy torrent.
9. Know Unity With Spirit: There are as many ways to connect with Spirit as there are people - each of us has our own way to receive strength and serenity from the Infinite. Your life will be happier if you acknowledge that you are not alone, become open to that presence, and create ritual to celebrate your connection. You may feel your bond with Spirit at the Lord's Supper, in Songs of Praise, in Calls to Prayer, in Meditation, while doing Yoga or Qigong, or while walking in the woods. However you connect with Spirit, do it today.
Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo
Last Friday, my husband and I went to Montgomery County Fair in Conroe. The fair usually starts on April 9-19 every year. We went there around 8:30pm. It was so traffic going to the fair and when we get there, it was really packed. First, we went to see our friend, he is also our neighbor, to his booth. His group are competing for the Barbeque Coof-Off. Their barbeque are great and delicious, after that, we went for rides and I'm not really a fun of rides cause I'm scared. We stayed till midnight and we decided to go home. We all had fun and next day, we are planning to go back also.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
2010 Tax Day dining relief offers:
Tax day has to be right up there with getting a root canal. It's time consuming and no one ever looks forward to it... whatsoever. Once it's taken care, there's a sense of relief (maybe not so much with a root canal, but you get the drift). Restaurants, be it chains or local want to provide their customers with a little tax relief with freebies or discounts on April 15th:
2010 Tax Day dining relief offers:
Thursday, April 15
MaggieMoo's
You've filed your taxes, now it's time to file in line at MaggieMoo's in Sugar Land. In honor of Tax Day, MaggieMoo’s will giveaway free samples of their latest creation. From 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., guests can sample MaggieMia’s™ Ice Cream Pizza. The pizza creation begins with vanilla ice cream for the crust, red icing for the sauce, and other sweet treats as the toppings.
15940 Lexington Boulevard
Sugar Land, TX 77479
(281) 313-1666
Cinnabon
Cinnabon will have a sweet tax relief for guests on April 15th, literally. From 6 p.m. through 8 p.m., participating locations will provide guests with free samples of their newest menu addition, cupcakes. Guests will receive two cupcake bites while supplies last. Tax Day or life's little problems still has you stressed? Write an essay telling Cinnabon how their treats play a role in your life. One lucky person will win a $100 gift card to Cinnabon. Essays must be received by 11:59 pm (Eastern) Thursday, April 15th.
McCormick & Schmick’s
McCormick & Schmick’s is bringing back their annual Tax Day discount. After dropping of their 1040 forms on April 15th, diners can order a dinner entree for $10.40 at the bar only. For an extra bonus, all guests at the bar will receive a gift certificate for $10.40 while supplies last.
Don't forget from 4 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. (4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Houston Pavilion location), it's Happy Hour at the bar. The Happy Hour menu includes food priced between $1.95-$4.95. Stuck at the post office or in traffic? The Uptown Park location offers a reverse Happy Hour from 9 p.m.-11 p.m. A drink must be purchased when ordering food from the menu. In honor of Tax Day, select cocktails will be specially priced.
McCormick and Schmick's (Uptown Park)
1151-01 Uptown Park Blvd
Houston, TX 77056
(713) 840-7900
McCormick and Schmick's (Houston Pavilion)
1201 Fannin Street
Houston, TX 77002
(713) 658-8100
P.F. Chang's China Bistro- P.F. Chang's is bringing back their Tax Day relief special for another year. Guests will receive 15% off their food purchases only (not applicable towards their Happy Hour menu). Want to order your food to go? No problem, the 15% off discount is available for takeout orders too. The Tax Day relief offer is available at locations.
Anvil Bar & Refuge (1424 Westheimer)- Anvil is known for their great and complex drinks, but for the average person, they may also find it expensive. The average person can rejoice as the bar is providing customers with a discount, no tax on drinks between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Word has it, Anvil's owner and mixologist, Bobby Heugel is cooking up Tax Relief cocktails for the day.
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar - While not as great of an offer as McCormick & Schmick's, Fleming's will also have a special that's a play on the 1040 form. Customers can order Fleming's Purely Rich Margarita for $10.40.
Chick-fil-A (Pearland) - Visit Pearland's Chick-fil-A on April 15th and be sure to save your receipt. Customers will receive the same order anytime in May when showing their original receipt from the 15th.
Starbucks Coffee - Bring in a reusable tumbler and Starbucks will fill it with free coffee.
Downing Street Pub (2549 Kirby Dr) - Join Downing Street Pub for a complimentary tasting of Chivas Regal. The tasting will last from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more about Chivas from their representative or try something new.
Sambuca (909 Texas Ave) - Celebrate finalizing your taxes with an all day Happy Hour at Sambuca. Usually from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., this rare all day happy will include the same specials: half-priced drinks and appetizers.
Boston Market - Customers can purchase one individual plate and receive another for free. The offer is only vaild with use of this coupon. All Boston Market are participating, but this offer cannot be used towards $2.99, $5, $5.99, meal deals or any other promotion.
Chick-fil-A (2715 Southwest Freeway) - Chill out with cool desserts at Chick-fil-A's dessert social. From 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., guests can sample all mini versions of the desserts offered at Chick-fil-A for free.
Crú: A Wine Bar (9595 Six Pines Dr, The Woodlands) - All day, Crú will provide a 50% off discount on their wine country inspired entrees. The savings don't stop there as Crú will also take 50% off sharing plates and pizzas. Mention Tax Credit to your server or when calling to make reservations (281-465-WINE)
Robeks Juice - Beginning Tuesday, April 13th through April 15th, customers can receive 50% off their entire order. Mention Twitter or Facebook when placing order at the counter. The offer is valid at both Houston locations: 9412 – A Gaylord Street and 5110 Buffalo Speedway.
Rainbow Lodge (2011 Ella Blvd) - Happy Hour is all day with half-priced glasses of wine.
Circle S Vineyards Circle S Vineyards will have their annual Tax Day party complete with their award winning wine, Corvina Amarone. From 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. guests can order a glass for $10.40.
...or you could celebrate finishing your taxes by going to one of the following venues for their weekly events:
* Try Chick-fil-A's newest coffee from 6:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. The offer is only available at the Mission Bend location (6895 Highway 6).
* Join The Chocolate Bar (2521 University Blvd) for an evening of jazz. Guests will be treated to a live jazz performance and receive a free ice cream sample.
* Have a glass of wine at Café Rosé (800 W. Sam Houston Parkway). The cafe is located on the first floor of Hotel Sorella, below Bistro Alex. House wines are $1 a glass (limit three) from 5pm-7pm. It's not a typical happy hour scene, it's a small crowd and very serene. It's the perfect place to relax and treat yourself after doing your taxes.
* Every Thursday Cork Wine Bar (1201 San Jacinto) and Smith & Wollensky (4007 Westheimer) offers free tastings. Cork Wine Bar's tasting is from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. and includes fruits, cheese, crackers, and hummus to accompany the wines. Smith & Wollensky's tasting is from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and features a different wine each week.
* Visit a bar or a restaurant's bar for their complimentary happy hour buffet or bites. A few bars that offer free buffets during Happy Hour are Sherlock's Baker's St. Pub (Clear Lake), Doneraki, and Seco Latin Cuisine (2536 Nottingham) to name a few.
* If you happen to get stuck in traffic or in the long lines at the post office, take advantage of the late Happy Hours in the Greater Houston Area. Here are a some places that have all night and or late Happy Hours on Thursdays (at least until 11 p.m.) are: Farrago World Cuisine (318 Gray), Hotel Zaza's Monarch (5701 Main), and Nouveau Antique Art Bar (2913 Main).
Friday, April 16
McCormick & Schmick’s
Are you a tax preparer or know someone who is? Celebrate Tax Preparer Appreciation Day with McCormick & Schmick’s. Professional tax preparers will receive a complimentary dessert with ordering an entree during lunch or dinner. In exchange of their business cards, tax preparers will also receive $10.40 gift certificate to use for a later date.
If you're not a tax preparer, there's still offers for you to take part in. If you're at the Uptown Park location, Happy Hour is from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. From 9 p.m.-11 p.m. it's reverse Happy Hour with the same offerings.
Every Friday in April, Houston Pavilion along with McCormick & Schmick’s will have their weekly Spring Happy Hour in the courtyard. The fun begins at 5 p.m. and will last until 9 p.m. There will be drink specials, food, and a DJ spinning tunes. If it happens to rain, the party will move inside McCormick & Schmick's bar.
McCormick and Schmick's (Uptown Park)
1151-01 Uptown Park Blvd
Houston, TX 77056
(713) 840-7900
McCormick and Schmick's (Houston Pavilion)
1201 Fannin Street
Houston, TX 77002
(713) 658-8100
House of Blues
Tax time is over, bring on a party. House of Blues and 002 Houston magazine are hosting a luau in the Foundation Room at 7 p.m. Everyone is encourage to wear their festive luau attire for a night filled with roasted pig and tropical drink specials. Professional hula dancers will provide entertainment throughout the evening. The party is free but RSVPs are requested. Send RSVPs to House of Blues.
1204 Caroline St
Houston, TX 77002
(888) 402-5837
Jack In The Box
Participating Jack In The Box locations will offer guests a free order of small fries for Free Fryday. The fast-food chain is promoting their new updated fries all day. No purchase is necessary and one order per person.
Boston Market - Customers can purchase one individual plate and receive another for free. The offer is only vaild with use of this coupon. All Boston Market are participating, but this offer cannot be used towards $2.99, $5, $5.99, meal deals or any other promotion.
...or you could celebrate finishing your taxes by going to one of the following venues for their weekly events:
* Give your wallet a break with a free bagel from Einstein Bros Bagels. Friday, April 16th and April 22nd, customers can use a coupon to receive a free bagel of their choice until 11 a.m. Coupons are located on Einstein Bros Bagels' Facebook page and can only be accessed when becoming their fan.
(Thanks to Houston On The Cheap for the tip!)
* Every Friday, The Woodland's Amerigo Grille (25250 Grogans Park Drive) has a free tasting in the lounge beginning at 7 p.m. Tastings can range from scotch to wines.
* Visit a bar or a restaurant's bar for their Happy Hour. Some restaurants and bars offer complimentary happy hour buffet or bites. A few bars that offer free buffets during Happy Hour are Sherlock's Baker's St. Pub (Clear Lake), Doneraki, and Seco Latin Cuisine (2536 Nottingham) to name a few.
* Have a glass of wine at Café Rosé (800 W. Sam Houston Parkway). The cafe is located on the first floor of Hotel Sorella, below Bistro Alex. House wines are $1 a glass (limit three) from 5pm-7pm. It's not a typical happy hour scene, it's a small crowd and very serene. It's the perfect place to relax and treat yourself after doing your taxes.
Saturday, April 17
Candelari's Pizzeria
Candelari's in Missouri City will close out the week with a tax relief celebration. Beginning at 4 p.m., $1.50 draft beers along with other food specials will be available. There will also be fun activities for children and more.
7425 Highway 6 South
Missouri City, TX 77459
(832) 947-0440
Boston Market - Customers can purchase one individual plate and receive another for free. The offer is only vaild with use of this coupon. All Boston Market are participating, but this offer cannot be used towards $2.99, $5, $5.99, meal deals or any other promotion.
...or you could celebrate finishing your taxes by going to one of the following venues for their weekly events:
* Chick-fil-A at Mission Bend hasn't forgotten about the kids. Children 12 and under will receive a free hand-spun milkshake every Saturday in April. The offer is only when children are wearing their little league uniforms or any sports apparel. The offer is only available at the Mission Bend location (6895 Highway 6).
Sunday, April 18
Boston Market - Customers can purchase one individual plate and receive another for free. The offer is only vaild with use of this coupon. All Boston Market are participating, but this offer cannot be used towards $2.99, $5, $5.99, meal deals or any other promotion.
2010 Tax Day dining relief offers:
Thursday, April 15
MaggieMoo's
You've filed your taxes, now it's time to file in line at MaggieMoo's in Sugar Land. In honor of Tax Day, MaggieMoo’s will giveaway free samples of their latest creation. From 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., guests can sample MaggieMia’s™ Ice Cream Pizza. The pizza creation begins with vanilla ice cream for the crust, red icing for the sauce, and other sweet treats as the toppings.
15940 Lexington Boulevard
Sugar Land, TX 77479
(281) 313-1666
Cinnabon
Cinnabon will have a sweet tax relief for guests on April 15th, literally. From 6 p.m. through 8 p.m., participating locations will provide guests with free samples of their newest menu addition, cupcakes. Guests will receive two cupcake bites while supplies last. Tax Day or life's little problems still has you stressed? Write an essay telling Cinnabon how their treats play a role in your life. One lucky person will win a $100 gift card to Cinnabon. Essays must be received by 11:59 pm (Eastern) Thursday, April 15th.
McCormick & Schmick’s
McCormick & Schmick’s is bringing back their annual Tax Day discount. After dropping of their 1040 forms on April 15th, diners can order a dinner entree for $10.40 at the bar only. For an extra bonus, all guests at the bar will receive a gift certificate for $10.40 while supplies last.
Don't forget from 4 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. (4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Houston Pavilion location), it's Happy Hour at the bar. The Happy Hour menu includes food priced between $1.95-$4.95. Stuck at the post office or in traffic? The Uptown Park location offers a reverse Happy Hour from 9 p.m.-11 p.m. A drink must be purchased when ordering food from the menu. In honor of Tax Day, select cocktails will be specially priced.
McCormick and Schmick's (Uptown Park)
1151-01 Uptown Park Blvd
Houston, TX 77056
(713) 840-7900
McCormick and Schmick's (Houston Pavilion)
1201 Fannin Street
Houston, TX 77002
(713) 658-8100
P.F. Chang's China Bistro- P.F. Chang's is bringing back their Tax Day relief special for another year. Guests will receive 15% off their food purchases only (not applicable towards their Happy Hour menu). Want to order your food to go? No problem, the 15% off discount is available for takeout orders too. The Tax Day relief offer is available at locations.
Anvil Bar & Refuge (1424 Westheimer)- Anvil is known for their great and complex drinks, but for the average person, they may also find it expensive. The average person can rejoice as the bar is providing customers with a discount, no tax on drinks between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Word has it, Anvil's owner and mixologist, Bobby Heugel is cooking up Tax Relief cocktails for the day.
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar - While not as great of an offer as McCormick & Schmick's, Fleming's will also have a special that's a play on the 1040 form. Customers can order Fleming's Purely Rich Margarita for $10.40.
Chick-fil-A (Pearland) - Visit Pearland's Chick-fil-A on April 15th and be sure to save your receipt. Customers will receive the same order anytime in May when showing their original receipt from the 15th.
Starbucks Coffee - Bring in a reusable tumbler and Starbucks will fill it with free coffee.
Downing Street Pub (2549 Kirby Dr) - Join Downing Street Pub for a complimentary tasting of Chivas Regal. The tasting will last from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more about Chivas from their representative or try something new.
Sambuca (909 Texas Ave) - Celebrate finalizing your taxes with an all day Happy Hour at Sambuca. Usually from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., this rare all day happy will include the same specials: half-priced drinks and appetizers.
Boston Market - Customers can purchase one individual plate and receive another for free. The offer is only vaild with use of this coupon. All Boston Market are participating, but this offer cannot be used towards $2.99, $5, $5.99, meal deals or any other promotion.
Chick-fil-A (2715 Southwest Freeway) - Chill out with cool desserts at Chick-fil-A's dessert social. From 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., guests can sample all mini versions of the desserts offered at Chick-fil-A for free.
Crú: A Wine Bar (9595 Six Pines Dr, The Woodlands) - All day, Crú will provide a 50% off discount on their wine country inspired entrees. The savings don't stop there as Crú will also take 50% off sharing plates and pizzas. Mention Tax Credit to your server or when calling to make reservations (281-465-WINE)
Robeks Juice - Beginning Tuesday, April 13th through April 15th, customers can receive 50% off their entire order. Mention Twitter or Facebook when placing order at the counter. The offer is valid at both Houston locations: 9412 – A Gaylord Street and 5110 Buffalo Speedway.
Rainbow Lodge (2011 Ella Blvd) - Happy Hour is all day with half-priced glasses of wine.
Circle S Vineyards Circle S Vineyards will have their annual Tax Day party complete with their award winning wine, Corvina Amarone. From 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. guests can order a glass for $10.40.
...or you could celebrate finishing your taxes by going to one of the following venues for their weekly events:
* Try Chick-fil-A's newest coffee from 6:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. The offer is only available at the Mission Bend location (6895 Highway 6).
* Join The Chocolate Bar (2521 University Blvd) for an evening of jazz. Guests will be treated to a live jazz performance and receive a free ice cream sample.
* Have a glass of wine at Café Rosé (800 W. Sam Houston Parkway). The cafe is located on the first floor of Hotel Sorella, below Bistro Alex. House wines are $1 a glass (limit three) from 5pm-7pm. It's not a typical happy hour scene, it's a small crowd and very serene. It's the perfect place to relax and treat yourself after doing your taxes.
* Every Thursday Cork Wine Bar (1201 San Jacinto) and Smith & Wollensky (4007 Westheimer) offers free tastings. Cork Wine Bar's tasting is from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. and includes fruits, cheese, crackers, and hummus to accompany the wines. Smith & Wollensky's tasting is from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and features a different wine each week.
* Visit a bar or a restaurant's bar for their complimentary happy hour buffet or bites. A few bars that offer free buffets during Happy Hour are Sherlock's Baker's St. Pub (Clear Lake), Doneraki, and Seco Latin Cuisine (2536 Nottingham) to name a few.
* If you happen to get stuck in traffic or in the long lines at the post office, take advantage of the late Happy Hours in the Greater Houston Area. Here are a some places that have all night and or late Happy Hours on Thursdays (at least until 11 p.m.) are: Farrago World Cuisine (318 Gray), Hotel Zaza's Monarch (5701 Main), and Nouveau Antique Art Bar (2913 Main).
Friday, April 16
McCormick & Schmick’s
Are you a tax preparer or know someone who is? Celebrate Tax Preparer Appreciation Day with McCormick & Schmick’s. Professional tax preparers will receive a complimentary dessert with ordering an entree during lunch or dinner. In exchange of their business cards, tax preparers will also receive $10.40 gift certificate to use for a later date.
If you're not a tax preparer, there's still offers for you to take part in. If you're at the Uptown Park location, Happy Hour is from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. From 9 p.m.-11 p.m. it's reverse Happy Hour with the same offerings.
Every Friday in April, Houston Pavilion along with McCormick & Schmick’s will have their weekly Spring Happy Hour in the courtyard. The fun begins at 5 p.m. and will last until 9 p.m. There will be drink specials, food, and a DJ spinning tunes. If it happens to rain, the party will move inside McCormick & Schmick's bar.
McCormick and Schmick's (Uptown Park)
1151-01 Uptown Park Blvd
Houston, TX 77056
(713) 840-7900
McCormick and Schmick's (Houston Pavilion)
1201 Fannin Street
Houston, TX 77002
(713) 658-8100
House of Blues
Tax time is over, bring on a party. House of Blues and 002 Houston magazine are hosting a luau in the Foundation Room at 7 p.m. Everyone is encourage to wear their festive luau attire for a night filled with roasted pig and tropical drink specials. Professional hula dancers will provide entertainment throughout the evening. The party is free but RSVPs are requested. Send RSVPs to House of Blues.
1204 Caroline St
Houston, TX 77002
(888) 402-5837
Jack In The Box
Participating Jack In The Box locations will offer guests a free order of small fries for Free Fryday. The fast-food chain is promoting their new updated fries all day. No purchase is necessary and one order per person.
Boston Market - Customers can purchase one individual plate and receive another for free. The offer is only vaild with use of this coupon. All Boston Market are participating, but this offer cannot be used towards $2.99, $5, $5.99, meal deals or any other promotion.
...or you could celebrate finishing your taxes by going to one of the following venues for their weekly events:
* Give your wallet a break with a free bagel from Einstein Bros Bagels. Friday, April 16th and April 22nd, customers can use a coupon to receive a free bagel of their choice until 11 a.m. Coupons are located on Einstein Bros Bagels' Facebook page and can only be accessed when becoming their fan.
(Thanks to Houston On The Cheap for the tip!)
* Every Friday, The Woodland's Amerigo Grille (25250 Grogans Park Drive) has a free tasting in the lounge beginning at 7 p.m. Tastings can range from scotch to wines.
* Visit a bar or a restaurant's bar for their Happy Hour. Some restaurants and bars offer complimentary happy hour buffet or bites. A few bars that offer free buffets during Happy Hour are Sherlock's Baker's St. Pub (Clear Lake), Doneraki, and Seco Latin Cuisine (2536 Nottingham) to name a few.
* Have a glass of wine at Café Rosé (800 W. Sam Houston Parkway). The cafe is located on the first floor of Hotel Sorella, below Bistro Alex. House wines are $1 a glass (limit three) from 5pm-7pm. It's not a typical happy hour scene, it's a small crowd and very serene. It's the perfect place to relax and treat yourself after doing your taxes.
Saturday, April 17
Candelari's Pizzeria
Candelari's in Missouri City will close out the week with a tax relief celebration. Beginning at 4 p.m., $1.50 draft beers along with other food specials will be available. There will also be fun activities for children and more.
7425 Highway 6 South
Missouri City, TX 77459
(832) 947-0440
Boston Market - Customers can purchase one individual plate and receive another for free. The offer is only vaild with use of this coupon. All Boston Market are participating, but this offer cannot be used towards $2.99, $5, $5.99, meal deals or any other promotion.
...or you could celebrate finishing your taxes by going to one of the following venues for their weekly events:
* Chick-fil-A at Mission Bend hasn't forgotten about the kids. Children 12 and under will receive a free hand-spun milkshake every Saturday in April. The offer is only when children are wearing their little league uniforms or any sports apparel. The offer is only available at the Mission Bend location (6895 Highway 6).
Sunday, April 18
Boston Market - Customers can purchase one individual plate and receive another for free. The offer is only vaild with use of this coupon. All Boston Market are participating, but this offer cannot be used towards $2.99, $5, $5.99, meal deals or any other promotion.
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