November 2009
Tips on Marina and Dock Sealing
It is important to follow these procedures when sealing a private dock or a dock at the marina. Always let the dock dry for three to twenty-four hours before applying any coating or sealant. You cannot put a seal coat over on top of moisture or wet wood.
Mask off boats, shrubbery, masonry, foliage with drop cloths or large sheets of cardboard. When using an airless sprayer use a 0.014-inch fine tip at about 250 to 500 PSI. if you are using a lower pressure sprayer or pump sprayer that is okay, but get in close. Apply water repellant, coating or sealant to railings, spindles, etc. first. Then move to the floor of the dock, deck or pier. Always work with the grain spraying in that direction. Use liberal portions of coating.
Be sure to brush out any puddles or drips aiming for smooth uniform application. Make sure whatever product you end up choosing is a preservative and not just a ‘water repellant’. Always have your EPA information with you, which you can download from the Internet;
Knowledge is power. If you choose to use any other water repellant coating or sealant make sure it says U.V. (ultra-violet) protectant. Also look for a mildew retardant. This is especially important because these horizontal surfaces are subject to intense heat and sun damage with fast algae growth rates.
If you are a contractor and doing this for a living; Remember that the marina manager or the dock master can be a great benefit to your business. Treat them well and they will usually bend over backwards trying to get you an unlimited amount of work through referrals. They will usually introduce you to boat owners. They can also be a great contact for any yacht sale or boat sale companies there on site, which will also give you almost unlimited work if you give them good results and reliable, consistent work. Boat dealers always need services and they know everyone.
You should also have some spill containment devices such as oil absorbent floating devices. These sealants are quite toxic and will kill sea life or fish in a lake. They also stick to boat hulls, which could really piss someone off big time.
Do it right the first time, think about it.
“Lance Winslow” - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/
How To Improve Your Search Engine Ranking
With search engines like Google currently indexing over 8 billion pages, it is becoming more and more difficult to get a top search engine ranking. Type in a popular search phrase such as “Internet Marketing” into Yahoo or Google and you will be returned over 8 million results!
Unless your website is in the first two or three pages, it is unlikely that you will receive many visitors from search engines.
So what should a webmaster do to give their website the best chance of ranking high in the search engines?
All search engines work slightly differently and have ever changing algorithms for ranking web pages, but these tips can be applied when planning, developing or marketing a website to help you reach that top page of search engine results.
(1) Choose your keywords carefully
It’s extremely important to set aside time to research your keywords. It’s best to do this in the planning stages, before developing your website, but many of us start a website without knowing a thing about how the search engines work, so you may find yourself doing this weeks or months later.
Try to choose phrases that are searched on frequently and if possible have a low number of competing websites.
To get an idea of the number of times a keyword is searched for per month, type a keyword into the box at
Overture Search Suggestion Tool
This will tell you how many times your keyword was searched on in the previous month (based on Overture’s partner search engines) and give you a list of similar keywords.
Another useful tool to help you choose your keywords is Word Tracker. This tool will help you choose your keywords and give you a “KEI” for each set of keywords based on the popularity of the keyword (number of searches) and the amount of competition.
You can try this out for free on Wordtracker
If you manage to pick your keywords in the planning stages you may even be lucky enough to find a domain name that contains your keywords.
(2) Optimise your pages
Once you have decided on your keywords you will need to optimise your pages for those keywords. Here are a few tips.
- Ensure that the Title of your page contains your keywords.
- Mention your keywords inside the meta tags. Most search engines no longer use meta tags, but some make use of them so it is still worthwhile using these.
- Try to make sure that the first occurance of readable text on your page contains your keywords
- Ensure that your keywords are mentioned in the initial paragraph of your page
- Use your keywords throughout the text of your page - but be careful not to overdo this. Your page should still be readable by humans!
- Use your keywords between the headline tags on your page (”H1″ tags or H2/H3 if H1 is too big)
- Occasionally bold or italicise your keywords
- Make sure that links pointing back to each page on your site contain the keywords for each page
- Give all your images an “ALT” tag and put your keywords in here too - again, don’t overdo this
- Try to put some of your keywords in your outbound links
(3) Start Linking
One of the most important criteria in getting a good search engine ranking is the number of backlinks you have to your website from related websites.
Type in your chosen keywords to Yahoo or Google and take note of the top 3 sites returned to you.
Now go to Link Popularity Checker and put the URLs of the top three sites into the linking tool, along the URL of your own site.
Have a look at the difference between your site and the top 3 sites and this will give you an idea of how many links you need in order to get a top search engine ranking for these keywords.
The best ways to get links back to your site are:
- By writing articles related to the subject of your website and getting them published on the internet
- Reciprocal Linking with other related websites
- Posting on newsgroups and forums that allow you to have a signature attached to your posting (with your uRL in it)
- Submitting your site to directories.
Try to make sure that the anchor text (clickable text) that links back to your site contains your keywords.
(4) Add Content Regularly
Another thing you may have noticed is that top ranking websites have lots of content.
Regularly updating your website and adding fresh content will also help your site to rank more highly in the search engines.
If you don’t have time to create your own unique content there are plenty free articles available Just type “Free website content” into Google and you’ll have your pick of the 18 million results that it returns to you!
To improve your ranking, follow steps 1 and 2 above and repeat steps 3 and 4 regularly.
Suzanne Morrison is the webmaster and owner of http://www.homebiz-direct.com To learn more about how to promote your website visit her Beginner’s Guide to Internet Marketing
Five Great Reasons To Start Utilizing Web & Video Conferencing Technology Now
Several years ago I was in a computer store and a salesman was trying to sell me something, in fact, he was trying to sell me anything that he could. I said that I had the latest computer and really didn’t need anything more. Then he showed me a web camera and I thought for a few seconds, but I really couldn’t figure out why I would need that gadget.
Now things have changed and that salesman could get the sale from me, because the time is right to start conducting online web and video conferences. Here are a few reasons why the age of web conferencing has truly arrived:
1. Transportation costs are rising and web conferencing is one way to conduct meetings without getting into a car or plane.
Imagine how much money you could save if you were able to hold a staff meeting with your distant branches without paying for fuel, hotels and all the other costs associated with outside meetings?
2. The cost of conducting a meeting outside a main office is much higher than you can calculate by only adding up the material costs.
When you leave your office or home, you have to put everything aside and subject yourself to delays in traffic, airports, trains and taxis. Sure, you can take your laptop with you, but are you really as productive using a laptop in a busy airport as you are while you are in your own office? Web conferencing allows you to get back to your other work as soon as the online conference ends.
3. Web conferencing allows you to meet face-to-face with your colleagues no matter where they are.
Globalization is not just a slogan. Business, educational and social organizations are now working in increasingly wider networks which are spread throughout the world. If you have clients, employees, representatives or students in another country or in a distant location, think how convenient it would be to be able to turn on your computer and hold a meeting with them. Well, this is not a distant dream, it is possible right now using existing web and video conferencing technology
4. Online conferencing allows you to give support and help to clients without sending out a technician or a representative.
If you are selling a product or service that must be supported, then think of the improvement in customer relations and reduction in costs that you could achieve if you could effectively meet online with your client. Today’s conferencing technology even allows your staff to “take over” the computer of a client and demonstrate how an application works.
5. Video and web conferencing is now extremely affordable, easy to use and very functional.
Gone are the days of proprietary systems and cameras. Today you can use standard PCs and inexpensive web cameras to conduct your meetings. The online meetings do not require equipment or software that is not already found in most offices. In addition, several companies now offer conferencing services at a price that even individuals and small organizations can afford.
If you need to hold meetings, or meet with staff and colleagues who work in far-flung locations then you should consider online conferencing. The spread of online meetings could change the way we all work, just as the widespread adoption of email did fifteen years ago.
Dan Richmond is CEO & Co-founder of MegaMeeting.com. MegaMeeting provides Web Conferencing & Video Conferencing services for individuals, businesses and educational institutions. For more information, or for a free live demonstration, please visit www.MegaMeeting.com/ or call (818) 783-4311.
Cycling Your Way To Fitness - Stationary Exercise Bikes - Still A Top Choice For Overall Fitness
Stationary Exercise Bikes - Still A Top Choice For Overall Fitness
In all the craze over new fangled fitness equipment, the exercise bike often gets overlooked. Stationary exercise bikes have been around for many years, which can lead some people to think they are outdated or not as effective as newer types of equipment. But for many people, exercise bikes provide a fun, consistent, reasonable means of exercising, improving cardio functions, and losing weight.
Stationary exercise bikes provide all the benefits of riding a bicycle. They provide good cardio workouts, have much less impact on knees, hips and other joints than walking or running, and can be used at any time it’s convenient. Most stationary bikes have manual or computerized controls to allow you to adjust resistance and speed. Many also come with heart monitors and cardio workouts already programmed in. There is a huge selection of price and style, and stationary bikes tend to be the most affordable cardio exercise machine.
Plus, with a stationary bike, you don’t have to worry about traffic, dogs, or bad weather. You can exercise in the convenience of your own home and even watch television or read a book while you bike. Try doing that on the bike path at the park!
Types of Stationary Bikes
Standard, upright stationary bikes come in single or dual action models. Dual action bikes have handles or levers to work the upper body and have been shown to provide more effective cardio workouts, burn more calories, and also improve overall body tone more efficiently than single action bikes. Dual action bikes work well for those with hip or leg injuries who need to exercise but also need to go easy on their legs. The dual action allows the arms to work harder to operate the machine, thus requiring less work from the legs.
A recumbent bicycle, sometimes called a “bent,” is a type of stationary bike that is more laid back…literally. It places the body in a semi or fully reclining position, taking pressure off the back area. Some people feel the position is difficult to adapt to at first, but many who choose recumbent bikes say they are very easy and comfortable to ride. They usually come with a larger seat, which often means you will stay on the machine longer or not have discomfort later.
Because of the reclining position, a recumbent bike works the abdominal muscles more and also creates more hamstring action. The lower center of gravity makes for better balance as well. Doctors feel they are better for those with back problems or with cerebral palsy and related diseases. The recumbent bikes also bring your feet more closely in line with your heart, keeping blood pressure low and providing for a safer overall workout.
Popular Models & Prices
Most stationary bikes come with ways to assess your speed and distance. Economy models have a tachometer/odometer combination and a design that utilizes a flywheel to provide resistance. These models are not programmable and provide the least effective workout, but are at under $200 can be an inexpensive way for a beginner or someone on a tight budget to get some exercise. They can be purchased at many department stores.
Standard models usually come with more features such as a programmable consul that calculates heart rate or allows you to pick a heart rate and then adjust the resistance accordingly. These bikes may use flywheels, fan blades, or magnetic resistance, depending on the quality. Magnetic resistance is usually the best method as it operates more smoothly and is quieter. These models can range from $200 up to $1500 and provide the broadest range of selection for the average person. Some popular models include Tunturi F520 (recumbent), Vision Fitness R2000, and several models from Schwinn, the popular bike manufacturer.
More expensive stationary bikes often use magnetic resistance and typically need to be plugged in to an outlet. They come with all the bells and whistles, including extended warranties, more varied programming features, and comfort options such as built in fans. They typically cost over $1500. Lifecycle 5500HR and 5500RHR (recumbent) are popular choices among those who are serious about their workout or have a healthy budget.
Other popular manufacturers of exercise bikes include Nordic Track, Reebok, Weslo, Keys, Fitness Quest, and Edge.
Compared To Other Equipment
All types of stationary bikes provide a low impact workout that many feel is an advantage over treadmill exercise. The force on the knees, ankles, feet and other body parts that occurs with walking or running can cause swelling or discomfort in the joints. It can irritate old injuries or sometimes even produce new problems. A stationary bike provides non-weight bearing exercise that reduces impact on these areas.
In the health and fitness industries, and among customers, there is an extensive debate over which machines burn more calories and give a better cardio workout. There is evidence on both sides of the issue, but many people agree that a stationary bike should have dual action to optimize weight loss and heart health. The pumping of the arms has a significant impact of the effectiveness of any workout, and a treadmill is less effective as well if you hold onto the hand supports rather than letting your arms swing or pumping them in rhythm to your motion.
Elliptical trainers are another exercise option that provides a low impact workout, but many feel they do not provide the same cardio benefits. Rowing machines are boring, more difficult to use, and can be hard on the back. Other equipment has disadvantages as well, making stationary bikes a good choice for overall effectiveness and satisfaction. Consumer buying shows that exercise bikes continue to rank as a top choice for exercise and fitness training.
In the ever expanding world of health and fitness equipment, there have been some true advances as well as a bunch of gimmicks. A stationary bike is an old standard that has been a proven exercise tool for years, and that continues to improve and adapt through new technology. The overall effectiveness, ease of use and variety of designs and prices makes a stationary exercise bike an excellent choice for beginners and advanced enthusiasts alike.
About the Author:
C.J. Gustafson is a successful writer for Best-Home-Gyms.com, providing consumer
information on the best discount home gyms. Read our
elliptical
trainer reviews, exercise bike and
treadmill reviews
for great ideas on equipping your gym.
Copyright 2005 Best-Home-Gyms.com
Permission is granted to publish this article on your site only if the
author’s byline is included and all links are hyperlinked.
Reconcile or Move On, How to Decide
Should I Reconcile? You are older and wiser now, with an experience or two, and a decision to make.
Your desire to reconcile is often a desire to live the dream. To revive your passions and the hopes you lived in the beginning. To return to ‘Go’ and start over with a new role of the dice.
Purhaps reconciliation is not your own desire, but forced upon you like a load of dirty laundry. Forced upon you by silent and sullen children. Forced upon you by a repentant spouse, full of promises and needs greater than your own. Forced upon you by family, religion, and tradition of the day.
Should I reconcile? Should I accept the hurt, the pain, and call it a day? Can I face the unknown, or is there more comfort in this familiar but battered arena? Yes, you are older and wiser now, with a decision to make.
How to Decide
Take a blank piece of paper, any paper, and if you are inclined you can create a spreadsheet or flow chart, it matters not the medium. Across the top draw a single line, and down the centre draw another line. At the top on one side write the word STAY. The other side gets MOVE ON.
There is no secret or trick to this; simply write down every reason or excuse for saving or ending your marriage. This writer remembers being asked to make a list of all the possible uses for the lowly paper clip. Writing down one use leads to another and another, the list reached 50 ideas within two minuets. At another table their list numbered 110. The point my friend is to just jot down, pro and con. Your list might take a life of its own, growing hour by hour, day by day.
At least three things will happen.
- You will come to a decision.
- You will have clearer understanding of the issues.
- You have the beginings of a course of action
Staying means taking action and making one more commitment to your marriage. That commitment is not yours alone. You both have issues to resolve. It is not prudent to take the easy road by ducking the issues. Face them head on. Pay the price in the currency of hard work and honest communication, without it couples often fall back into old habits. A recommendable course of action is joint marriage counselling, and in many cases joint financial counselling.
Moving on means acceptance, and closes the option of going back into the marriage. While it may be sad, it also frees you to look to your future without the complications of all the “what if’s”. Moving on can be like passing Go and collecting your $200, knowing the next trip around the block might be better than the last.
The author is a sailor and divorce consultant, you may connect with him and discover more resources about Canadian divorce and separation at www.candivorce.ca
What You Should Know About Medicare
Medicare is the Federal health insurance program that is available to older people and to many of those with disabilities. Generally, a person is eligible for Medicare when turning age 65. In other instances, a person with a disability may be eligible, regardless of age.
There are two parts to Medicare: Part A and Part B. Inpatient hospital services, skilled nursing facility, home health care and hospice services are covered by Medicare Part A. Physician services, durable medical equipment, clinical diagnostic laboratory services, laboratory tests, X-rays, diabetes self-management, outpatient hospital services, ambulance services, outpatient mental health services, mammograms, pap smears, colon or prostate cancer screenings, flu and pneumonia shots, bone density measurement, and physical therapy are covered by Medicare Part B. Medicare generally does not cover preventive care services, private duty nursing, hospital room telephone or television, private hospital rooms, dental services, eyeglasses, chiropractic services, care outside of the U.S., acupuncture, hearing aids, long term or custodial care in nursing homes or most prescription drugs.
To qualify for Medicare, a person must meet at least one of the following:
(1)Be age 65 and eligible for Social Security or railroad retirement benefits,
(2)Have been receiving Social Security disability income for at least 24 months, or
(3)Have end stage renal (kidney) disease.
If one continues to work after age 65 or decides not to enroll for Social Security benefits at age 65, he/she may still receive Medicare benefits. Permanent legal aliens also qualify for Medicare when they have lived in the U.S. for at least five years or more continuously prior to eligibility date. They may also qualify when they are not eligible for Social Security benefits or railroad retirement benefits, but they usually will have to pay the premiums for Medicare Part A.
If one qualifies for Social Security or railroad retirement benefits, his or her Medicare enrollment is automatic. If one is not age 65, he/she may apply with the local Social Security office during the 7 month period that starts 3 months before their 65th birthday. When applying 3 months before turning 65, the Medicare coverage begins in the birthday month. When applying in the birthday month or during the 3 months following, coverage will be delayed for up to 3 more months. Enrollment may also be done between January 1 and March 31 of any year once becoming eligible, but there may be a penalty for late enrollment and an effective date of July 1.
If one has coverage with a group or business health plan, he/she may enroll any time while still working and if the employer has more than 20 employees. If one cancels group coverage while still working or retires, he/she is given a special 8 month enrollment period beginning when the group coverage ends. Be aware that when applying for a Medicare Supplement policy 6 months after Medicare Part B coverage is effective or after open enrollment ends, health questions would have to be answered on the application. Also, when one is covered with a group health plan and Medicare, as long as the employer has 20 or more employees one has the option of making the group health coverage primary and Medicare secondary.
If one is automatically eligible for Medicare Part A then there is no premium to pay. A premium is required for Medicare Part B. If one does not enroll in Medicare Part B when initially eligible, then there is a 10% premium penalty for each year of delayed enrollment.
Medicare options include original Medicare which comes direct from the Federal government, and Medicare PPO (preferred provider organization), Medicare PFFS (private fee-for-service plan), Medicare MSA (medical savings account plan), and Medicare HMO (health maintenance organization) or Medicare PSO (provider-sponsored organization) which are offered by private health plans. There are also special Medicare programs for people with low incomes of $4000 per individual or $6000 per couple not including a house or car. These programs are: QMB, SLMB, Q1-1, Q1-2, or Medicaid.
Over 80% of those eligible for Medicare select original Medicare. It is available everywhere in the U.S. and one is enrolled in it automatically when becoming eligible for Medicare. Just about any doctor or hospital may be used with original Medicare, and it pays providers and doctors directly for the services one receives. To fill in any gaps in the original Medicare coverage, a Medicare Supplement insurance plan may be purchased.
For more information, please contact Social Security at 1-800-722-1213 or log onto www.medicare.gov.
Editor of Poetry Market E-zine, Contributing Editor of Muse’s Kiss. Chapbooks include: …after Graceland, The Cat and the Carroll A. Deering and Other North Carolina Poems, Alexandra’s Wreck (Kitty Litter Press - http://kittylitterpress.com). http://www.thepoetrymarket.com