Thursday, December 31, 2009

Actual Day Photography

By Ray Wong

The wedding couple are the two most important people on a wedding day. An excellent idea would be to isolate the couple from the ongoing celebrations so that the photographer can capture the beautiful intimate moments between them and create some everlasting portraits Not only will you get your pictures but this will give they wedding couple some time away from the celebration as well.

The portrait session will give the photographer enough time to spend with the wedding couple to capture the pictures. On the wedding day it doesn't always happen because it is rare to have time on the actual day of the wedding. The time taken for pictures can well vary from an hour to no time at all. It can take up to an hour for the photographer to take the pictures.

When is the best time to take aside the bride and groom for some quality time with the photographer?

Most photographers tend to believe that the window before the reception is very suitable for portrait photography, since the couple would still look fresh at that time.

Sometimes the bride and groom would want to start the portrait shoot even before the ceremony says Bradley Hanson, award winning photographer. He generally starts by photographing the bride getting ready in such events.

Other photo journalists believe that the right time for a portrait session is just after the couple has exchanged their vows, and are still are evidently feeling the emotions of being newly-wed.

For the perfect actual day session to begin, the newly-weds should set aside some time to spend with the photographer. They should find ways to politely lose the relatives and guests to acquire the beautiful moments, so that they can be cherished for a lifetime.

Too many people trying to take pictures of the newly-weds and crying for attention may very well ruin a good portrait session on the wedding day. As a result of this, most photographers choose to have the couple alone for the shoot so that it is not disturbed by anyone.

According to award winning photographer Shawna Herring, most newly-weds start feeling uncomfortable before the camera when the portrait session is about to start. Professional photographers try to talk to the camera-shy couple about things other than the portrait session so that they forget the camera is even there.

It is also recommended to choose a day before or after the wedding for the photo shoot and go with the photographer to a different location. To have a good relationship with the photographer this really seems to help loosen them up. Shortly after, couples sometimes forget the camera is even there.

It is at times impossible to achieve the perfect alone time with the photographer due to a variety of reasons. The bride and the groom should work together with the photographer to find some alone time so that a really creative portrait session is achieved.

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Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Some Tips In Making Your Photos Look Better

By Jason King

People love to take pictures with their cameras. It is one of the biggest hobbies around the world.But what people do not realize is that they are just a practice away from being a professional.What I mean is that they can also take great pictures just like the pros just by practicing.

It may not be as good but it is close to the quality.Especially now with the advent of many new digital cameras.So here are some ways on how you can take great photos.

First thing you may want to learn is how to effectively use the sunlight to your advantage. As a San Diego wedding photographer this is an important skill to master since most weddings are during the day. So how you use the sunlight is make sure it isn't overhead because it can wash out faces. Also be careful of real bright sunlight because it can cause harsh shadows.

Next tip I can give is you should learn how to use the flash.The secret is to know how to distance yourself from the subject.Because taking photos of subjects far away from them might render the flash useless and your photo would turn out to be dark. Also you want to not get too close because the bright flash will lose some detail. These are things I had to learn the hard way as a San Diego photographer.

Finally you want to know how to position the camera.People do not realize the fact good positioning can determine if the shot would turn out bad or great. The best part with digital cameras is that you can take a lot of photos to see what are good angles. As a San Diego event photography service you have to take a lot of photos because you don't know which ones will be good.So don't hesitate to take many shots.

So there are some of the tips that I can give you in helping you how to take great shots.Taking beautiful photographs ain't that hard as you may find out.

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Tuesday, December 29, 2009

The Early Years Of MMA: Ali Vs. Inoki

By Ross Everett

The UFC has only recently brought mixed martial arts to the mainstream in the US, but in Japan there's a long tradition of fights pitting contestants from different disciplines against each other. While they've only been called MMA or 'mixed martial arts' in recent years, the sport clearly has its roots in these early contests between wrestlers, judo fighters and boxers. In Japan, Antonio Inoki's fights against world famous martial artists brought great notoriety to the still evolving sport.

Before and after his matchup against Muhammad Ali, Inoki would frequently compete against other martial artists in what are widely accepted to be "worked" (ie: having a predetermined outcome) matches. Inoki fought boxer Chuck Wepner, judo Gold Medalist Wilhelm Ruska and world karate champion Willie Williams among others. His most famous match internationally, however, was against Ali.

There's a great deal of uncertainty about many of the stories surrounding how the event came together and transpired, but a few facts are now known. Ali took the fight as it was a large and presumptively easy paycheck. The big money he was earning is what kept him from walking out when his camp started to disagree with Inoki's handlers over the rules and 'finish' fo the fight. Some suggest that it was supposed to be a fair fight going in, but Ali at the last minute insisted on rules more favorable to him. The more likely version of events is that Ali's handlers agreed to a predetermined finish, only to have Ali balk at the last moment.

Many conspiracy theorists have noted that these rules were never announced to the crowd on fight night, leaving many with the impression that they were being made up as they went along. Action in the fight would further validate this view, but there actually were rules that both camps agreed to heading into the fight. Not surprisingly, most of these were designed to protect Ali. In fact, they were so one-sided that if Inoki hadn't been so concerned about preserving his big payday he would have been justified in not fighting. Inoki was prohibited from punching with a closed fist or striking Ali in the head (ostensibly since he wasn't wearing gloves). Inoki was prohibited from using any sort of submission maneuver. The most absurd limitation was that Inoki was prohibited from "grappling or trying to take Ali to the ground". A few observers noted that this was like not letting Ali throw a jab.

The result was an absolutely horrible fight. Neither man showed much interest in engaging the other, with Inoki spending most of the time on the ground doing what he could under the one sided rules. Inoki threw kicks at Ali's legs, Ali threw an occasional jab and tried to protect himself from his opponent's leg strikes. The fight ended a 74-74 draw, with the real losers being the fans.

The fight was officiated by former pro wrestler "Judo" Gene Labell, a legendary tough guy considered at the time to be the 'baddest man on the planet'. He could have easily beaten up both men, possibly at the same time. That might have provided some much needed entertainment to liven up the tedious charade masquerading as a fight.

After the fight, Inoki's popularity in Japan was greater than ever. He became something of a hero for trying to fight despite having the rules so decidedly in his opponent's favor. He'd continue his fights against other martial artists and remain one of the country's most popular sports figures for years to come. His 'worked' martial arts matches can be credited with sparking later hybrid promotions showcasing pro wrestling and martial arts that evolved into PRIDE, RINGS and the major Japanese fight promotions of today.

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Monday, December 28, 2009

Subconscious Mind Power - An Incredible Resource!

By Ronald Bigley

Remember the phrase 'if you build it, they will come'? It's true " at least when you phrase it like this: if you think it, it will happen. Basically, if you can conceive it in your mind, it can come true.

You already have all of the power you need to change everything about your life for the better " it's inside of you; in your subconscious mind. In fact, your mind is much more powerful than you've probably ever imagined. It can heal you, help you to transcend the physical world and to make yourself feel the heights of elation or the depths of despair. If you could learn to control your subconscious mind power, you can do things you've only imagined.

It's only natural if you're skeptical about this idea, but before you reject this idea, think about the well known phenomena of the placebo effect. In clinical trials of medications, one group of participants are given the actual medication, the other a placebo. Both groups, however, are informed of the effects of the drug including any side effects which it may cause.

In many trials, you'll see both the experimental groups and the control groups claiming to have pretty much the same results. Both groups think that they're receiving the medication and their subconscious mind power goes to work, making them actually experience the effects which they believed would occur.

This is why some physicians don't mention the possible side effects of a medication when it is first prescribed to a patient. They are fully aware of the placebo effect and know that many patients may believe that they are suffering from these side effects, no matter how unlikely this may be.

You can access your subconscious mind power by using this power of suggestion. The placebo effect can be put to work to make positive changes in your life. When you can control the suggestions which are fed to your subconscious, your mind power becomes truly your own.

Many people find visualization to be a useful technique to get in touch with their subconscious mind power. Best of all, visualization is easy to do. You can simply close your eyes and try to 'view' anything that you want in your mind's eye.

You can also use a method which many find to be very effective either in conjunction with visualization techniques or all by itself. This is to have a physical image of your goal around to remind you of it and to help you to focus your thoughts. Let's say that you'd like a particular car. You can find a picture of this car or best of all, a photograph of yourself with this car. Keep the photo somewhere that you'll see it every day. The more often you see the picture, the stronger of a focus you'll be able to develop on this goal in your mind and the more of your subconscious mind power you can bring to bear on your objective.

There are those who have always known about these techniques and how effective subconscious mind power can be in shaping the world around you. However, a mounting body of scientific evidence is starting to point to the basis of this phenomenon in the laws of physics.

As physicists know, at its essence all matter is made of pure energy and there is evidence which suggests that our minds may be able to influence this energy. For instance, there is the famous thought experiment of Schrodinger's cat. Some speculate that matter cannot exist unless it is being observed.

It seems that it may be less that we are made by the universe as that we make our universe. If this is true; and it is increasingly gaining mainstream scientific acceptance, subconscious mind power may have the capability to reshape the world around us.

There have always been religions which have held the belief that our own minds create the world and the universe. Now, science has started to approach this idea from its own standpoint. No matter what (if any) religious beliefs you may hold, you're probably a believer in the laws of physics.

If you could make changes in your life just by using your subconscious mind power, you'd definitely want to do so. All you need to do is learn to use this power instead of letting it hold sway over your conscious mind. The way to begin is to use visualizations and affirmations to get you closer to your goals. Start with small things and as your subconscious mind power develops, you'll be able to achieve greater and greater things.

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Sunday, December 27, 2009

Carolina Thumps Slumping Tampa Bay

By Ross Everett

Carolina Panthers' quarterback Jake Delhomme struggled on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and was fortunate that his running backs bailed him out. Delhomme threw for only 65 yards with two interceptions, but D'Angelo Williams (152 yards) and Jonathan Stewart (110 yards) kept the chains moving as the Panthers won their second straight game defeating the Bucs 28-21. Tampa Bay has now lost ten straight dating back to last season and are 0-6 for the first time since'85. The fact that they ended up starting that year 0-9 on their way to a 1-15 record doesn't bode well for the rest of the season.

NFL sports bettors were faced with a choice between two teams with dismal ATS records in this game, and those who had the guts to take a 1-3 team as a -3 road favorite were rewarded with the cover. It was Carolina's first NFL pointspread cover of the season and left them with a 1-4 record against the number. Tampa Bay has covered one of their six games this year. The 49 points scored went OVER the total of 40'. Tampa Bay has gone OVER in 4 of 6, while Carolina has exceeded the total in three of their five games.

Delhomme attempted only seven passes in the second half, but the way Williams and Stewart were running there was no reason to put the ball in the air. Williams said that even though Tampa Bay knew what was coming they couldn't stop the Panthers' running game:

"I'm sure everybody in the stadium knew what we were going to do. There were times they had nine in the box and we were still getting 7 or 8 yards."

There's been little impatience locally with Bucs' rookie head coach Raheem Morris, but his weekly habit of explaining the obvious to rationalize yet another loss is starting to wear thin:

"We got overpowered at the end, and really throughout the game."

Carolina safety Dante Wesley was ejected after clobbering Bucs' return man Clifton Smith after a fair catch call. After the game, Wesley gave this defense for his actions:

"I was just trying to make a play. You can check my record. I've never really tried to hurt anybody. I've never tried to take a cheap shot on anybody."

Wesley could face a possible fine or suspension from the NFL but, in all fairness, it did appear to be a momentary mental lapse as he was trying to make a big play and not a deliberate attempt to injure Smith.

Tampa's schedule has the look of them going from 'the frying pan into the fire' as they host the New England Patriots next Sunday-fresh off of their 57 point drubbing of Tennessee. The Bucs are +14 home underdogs to the Patriots with the total set at 45. They'll get a week off after that contest and return to action on November 8 as they host the Green Bay Packers. Carolina has an easier draw, hosting the Buffalo Bills next Sunday.

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Saturday, December 26, 2009

Advantages Of Using An RV To Go Camping

By Larry Forest

There is one thing that a lot of people enjoy doing, and that is taking vacations. One type of vacation is really popular. That type of vacation is camping. This type of vacation is appealing to so many people.

One of the best ways to go camping is to go in an RV. Well this article we would like to look at the many benefits of using an RV to go camping.

First and foremost when you camp in an RV you give yourself the ability to still enjoy all the amenities of life. The comforts of running water and toilets make this choice very appealing to many people. Naturally there are still some people who really like to camp by roughing it. But that isn't the type of person that makes up most of my clientele of my San Diego RV rentals business.

The benefit that should be mentioned next when camping in an RV is you have the ability to bring all types of food. Usually when you are camping the types of food you can bring with you are limited. Well it used to be if you were to go camping you were limited to the types of foods you could bring, but an RV frees those limitations. That is the biggest requested item for people who rent an RV from my Campland on the Bay RV rentals service.

The last benefits is the fact you are free to move around to many different campsites. The first thing that has to be done when you go camping is you need to set up camp. Well if you decide you want to go elsewhere there will be a lot of work to break down and move camp. Well when you have an RV if you choose to visit another campsite, the only thing you have to do is load up and go. This is what a lot of people who rent from my RV rentals company.

As you can see very clearly the choice to go camping with an RV has many reasons. The biggest reason that covers them all is comfort and ease of use.

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Friday, December 25, 2009

The Phantom of the Opera: A Review with Opera Glasses

By Jeff Bridges

The Phantom of the Opera is a marvelous and poetic performance that will push you through every feeling possible, from terror, to glee, to the pits of depression and back. As you attend this musical masterpiece, remember your opera glasses, to make sure you catch every last detail

Our Story begins in the nineteenth century, and the curtains open to reveal that two business men have purchased an old theater house which is haunted by a spirit. This spirit is that of a genius construction worker who helped build the opera house by the name of Erik. The reality of the matter is that Erik is not in fact a phantom but was one who was disfigured from birth. To cover the disfigurement of his face the Phantom of the Opera wears the mask that we all know so well today.

The plot progresses when Erik appears to one of the stage performers Christine. He tells her that he has been sent to her by her dead father to give her voice lessons, and that he is an angel her father spoke of called The Angel of Music. The Phantom begins to give voice lessons to Christine though the walls of her dressing room, careful to never let her, or anyone see him. As the plot continues, Christine becomes an amazing singer, and quickly advances to being the star of the show.

Christine, one night, faints during a performance. A daring man in the audience comes to her rescue. We come to find out that this daring man is Raoul, a childhood friend of Christine. We find also that Raoul has fallen in love with her. Raoul begins to attend Christine's performances regularly, showering her with gifts.

Jealousy of Christine and Raoul begins to consume Erik, for the Phantom has also fallen in love with Christine. Erik can no longer restrain himself from meeting in person with Christine. When he finally appears in her dressing room, he does so wearing the famed mask. He then takes Christine deep within the catacombs of the opera house to his secret home.

Christine becomes frightened and angered at Erik and wants to be let go back out into the world. Erik makes a promise to let her go after five days of being with him. Erik gives Christine a tour of his home which if very strange and horrific. Chills will be sent down your spine. Make sure you have your opera glasses out for this moment in the theatre.

Christine desires to see the man behind the mask, and wonders who he really could be. In an amazing duet she pulls the mask by surprise from his face. We recommend using your opera glasses at this point to see if you can catch a glimpse of the Phantom's face. After this amazing pinnacle of the duet, Erik feels betrayed and angry and vows to never release Christine from his underground lair. The Phantom, simply loves Christine, and more than anything wants this true love to be returned.

As the storyline carries on you will continue to be mesmerized by the music and wonderful performance that is given. But to see how The Phantom of the Opera ends, you will have to see it for yourself. This is one performance that you will want to see again and again. The wonderful storyline of the Phantom of the Opera with opera glasses is highly recommended.

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Thursday, December 24, 2009

Online Casino Is A World Of Good News For Me

By Simon M Skinner

There has become so many different online casino web sites. It is a rather confusing thing for most but most of the sites are real and it is because the gaming corporation wouldn't have it any other way. There are a few really good ones out there.

If you go to the website of one you have selected you can see that you are gong to be told that you can play for free for the first few dollars. Usually it is 5. 00-25. 00 and then after that they will double what you put in there to play with when you make that first deposit.

Depositing money is easy. You can do it through really anywhere. MasterCard's and Visa's, Debit checking cards, as well as pay pal. I personally use pay pal because I can transfer my wining back to my account it just takes some time to get there that's all.

There are usually different games that you can play as well. You have everything from the penny slots to the two dollar slots and all the different gambling games that you would find at the normal casino to. There are a lot of tutorials if you are not sure how to play the game as well. If it is a game like poker you are even able to make your own avatar and see it play the game for you.

Just like being in a real casino it can sometimes get the best of you and get you addicted to it. This opens up a door that you don't really want to happen so keep a eye on yourself and contact the help number that is listed on the website for these situations.

IF you like casinos but not the tables there are many different things you can do. You can even play bingo on there. Online casinos like to make sure that there is a variety of entertainment for everyone that comes to the site. There is also contests and free give aways as well. Be prepared to get invites in your email and mail as well. Just look when your signing up and if you don't want updates and promotions just check off the box that says no.

There are advantages to sitting at home to play. You never have to leave the house, and you always get to wear what you want to your casino even if it is pajamas. Your food and drinks are free and best of all you don't have to worry about no seats being available at your favorite games or not. I have done both and honestly like sitting at home playing a lot more then i like leaving the house on a balmy winters day.

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Wednesday, December 23, 2009

4 Great Ways To Get Better At Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the world's most popular casino table games. It's easy to play and it doesn't have a lot of complicated rules. The main rule is pretty straightforward - if you get 21, you will win. You also can win even if you don't get 21, but those rules are easy to understand too. All you need to do is beat the dealer without going over 21. As you can see, it only takes a few simple sentences to explain this popular game.

But as easy as it is to explain, playing Blackjack successfully can be a challenge. People throughout the world love to play this game because it's easy and so much fun to play. Trying to win by beating the Blackjack dealer is both exciting and thrilling.

If you love to play Blackjack then it's natural that you'd want to learn how to improve your game. This game is simple, and the ways you can make your Blackjack play better are simple, too. Here are four tips you can use to improve your Blackjack game.

1. Count Cards. Card counting can be a little tricky, but you'll be winning more often when you get the hang of it. Don't be intimidated by this winning Blackjack strategy. Counting cards is simply a matter of keeping track of your odds of winning. Card counting takes some practice but it's a skill that's well worth learning. Detailed information on how to do it is available online.

2. Always Know The Odds. Knowing the odds is easier than counting cards. You can easily find Blackjack odds in a variety of charts and graphs online. All you need to do is memorize these charts so you will know how you stand in any particular situation. Once you know where you stand, you will know which move to make to help you win.

3. Know When to Quit. Trust me, sometimes quitting will help you win. You may not think so at first, but when you know when to quit you know how to stop yourself from losing. Although it's not quite as good as winning, losing less often is always good. So although your goal is to win, another goal should be to avoid losing. Sometimes you just need to quit, so you need to know when to call it a day. You can always come back to the Blackjack table another time. Knowing when to quit at the right time will save your money and sanity.

4. Practice Makes Perfect. The only way you will get good at something is to practice, and playing online Blackjack is no different. You need to play the game so that you can learn to get better. While you are playing, try practicing card counting. You can also work on memorizing the odds of winning. Practice will help you learn which mistakes you typically make, and once you know what they are, you can stop making them. Practice lets you start seeing patterns, so practice and you'll begin to recognize situations where you are set up to win. Every winner practices their Blackjack game.

Blackjack is a classic casino game, so the odds are good that one day you'll want to step up to a table and play. Why not increase the chances that you'll be a winner? Use these tips to learn how to be an amazing Blackjack player. When you master them you'll begin playing like a professional.

Why Should I Hire A Wedding Magician For My Wedding Day?

By Andrew Edmonds

Has the thought ever graced your mind about obtaining a wedding magician for your big day? Many people will adamantly declare that the only place that a magician belongs is at a child's birthday party. However, many people are actually turning their sites toward hiring a magician to entertain their guests at their wedding.

Let's face it for anyone that has been or is having a wedding of their own, they already realize how tiring this day can be. The day is exciting without a doubt, however there are so many things that need to be accomplished, and many fret not enough time to get everything done. In a lot of instances wedding guests are normally put on the back burner, until everything for the wedding can be completed.

A wedding magician can actually entertain your guests while you are fixated having to carry out the other various chores that go along with getting married. Let's face it; in order for your photographer to obtain the best pictures of the event, there is a lot of time that is taken away from the wedding.

Normally, there are pictures of you, as well as your new spouse and the wedding party that take up most of the photographers and your time. Getting a wedding magician will keep your guests entertained while you are posing for the camera, in a means to commemorate your special day.

Another great time to have the magician bustling around during your wedding is during your meal. Statistics show, that people are a lot more willing to open up when they see things that can simply not be exclaimed. This will allow everyone the opportunity to loosen up and vast in your momentous day.

Perhaps one of the best times to bring your magician out is at your wedding reception. The reception is used for a chance for everyone to settle down after the long day. Often times, the reception is a time of dancing and celebration. However, not everyone dances and everyone loves magic so why not mix the both of them together?

When it comes to choosing a magician for your wedding, it is imperative that you commence in a good deal of research before making your final decision. You want to ensure that the magician that you are obtaining is skilled in their craft, and not just a hoax or someone looking for a way to make a quick dollar.

Some magicians may allow you the option to see them perform. However, if the magician that you are hiring, normally only performs at weddings you may need to meet with them outside of their performance in order to analyze the skills that the particular magician that you are interested in hiring has.

You will notice that a large majority of magicians carry around their very own kit with them when they are going to be acting out their parts and showcasing their magic abilities. For a lot of people these kits give them an idea concerning the different tricks that the magician is going to pull out of their sleeves.

However, do not let the kit that the magician that you are opting to hire fool you. There are a lot of magicians that have their own kit, and simply are not good at their craft at all. Remember, to go with your gut, and ask as many questions as you can when it comes to picking out a magician for your big day.

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Tuesday, December 22, 2009

The Best RTG Casino Games

Real Time Gaming or RTG software is the top software used by leading online casinos. There is good reason for that. RTG software has the best graphics, a variety of features and is backed by a company that takes customer service very seriously. When you play RTG software casino games you will get the best experience possible.

Not only are the games amazing and fun, but there are also a variety of games that you can play. You really have no limits because almost every game you want to play from slots to poker to blackjack are available from RTG software.

Let's take a look at some of the most popular RTG software casino games.

Blackjack: Always a popular game, RTG blackjack uses 2 to 4 decks. The dealer hits soft on 17, double after a split or on any first two cards. The only way to lose first bet is if the dealer comes out with 21. There are several versions of blackjack offered from RTG. These include, Caribbean 21, Face Up and Match Play 21.

Video Poker: Another popular choice for players, video poker from RTG offers you a real experience. RTG has a large selection of video poker games. These include Pick ‘em Poker, Double Jackpot, Joker Poker and Loose Deuces.

Roulette: RTG software offers a nice selection of roulette games. In RTG roulette you have the choice of both American and European wheels. Most of the games are available to play instantly or to be downloaded.

Craps: RTG software offers craps which is a game of skill. Full double odds is the standard play in craps from RTG. Most casinos offer a chance to play for free so you can get a feel for the game and get in some practice before playing for money.

Slot Machines: One of the hottest new games from RTG software is the slots. RTG slots offer a lot of options in different games. There are random jackpots and progressive jackpots along with regular jackpot games.

These are just a sampling of the many different game options you get with RTG software. When you visit an RTG casino you will see there are plenty of choices and options no matter what game you choose to play.

RTG is Hot

There are many reasons why people love to play at RTG casinos. People simply like the experience they get with RTG software games. They take playing online to a whole new level. RTG software games offer you something that is so close to the real thing that you may start to wonder if you are at home or sitting in a Vegas casino. These games simple are the best games available in online casinos. You cannot get better graphics, better odds or a better experience than you do with RTG software games.

9 Astonishing Movie Commentaries For Your Entertainment Satisfaction

By Jed Albert

One of the top and most low-cost forms of amusement is viewing a movie that you can enjoy in the privacy of your own domicile. Today there are many methods to unearth the movie that you want to view, you can go to a video store, enroll in a mail service or possibly the finest choice up till now is to download the film right on your computer.

Across llOth Street - Barry Shear handled the directing for this film. Three black men, disguised as policemen have robbed the mob bank out of over $250,000. Now the cops and the mafia are in a competition to snare the thieves, and salvage the money. The actors include Anthony Quinn, Yaphet Kotto, Anthony Franciosa, Richard Ward, and Paul Benjannin. (1972 Crime-Drama)

All About My Mother - While a woman loses her youngster, she returns to Barcelona, renews a hidden relationship with a transvestite buddy, who unwittingly the youngster's father. Pedro Almodovar directed this film and it is his most affecting motion picture to date-more grave than most, although not without his trademark wit and differentiated by exceptional behaviors all around. Cast includes Cecilia Roth, Marisa Paredes, Penelope Cruz, Antonia San Juan, Candela Pena, and Eloy Azorin. (101 minutes, 1999)

The Interpreter - U.N. translator Silvia Broome overhears a death threat made against an African leader. She knows that she was watched and fears for her life. Upon reporting the circumstance to law enforcement, she finds that support will not come easy.

Bewitched - Isabelle is a witch, living in the San Fernando Valley, and trying to not use her mystical powers. She finds herself being wooed by actor Jack Watt to play the role of Samantha the witch in a remake of the old 1960's sitcom Bewitched. What a outlandish twist of fate.

Die Hard - In position to execute the perfect crime, terrorists have commandeered a Los Angeles high rise, and are holding everyone prisoner. There is $460 million in the corporate safe that the terrorists want. Everything is going as per plan. Uninvited, so the terrorists don't know he is there New York cop John McClane is the solitary hope to stop the terrorists.

In Enemy Country - So-so designer of WW2 enthrall, set in France and England, filmed on a back-lot. Not particularly persuading. Cast includes Tony Franciosa, Anjanette Comer, Guy Stockwell, Paul Hubschmid, Tom Bell, and Emile Genest. (107 minutes, 1968)

The Geisha Boy - Jerry, an clumsy warlock, travels to Japan with appalling repercussions. Imaginative graphic gags; there is a clever pattern characterizing the Los Angeles Dodgers and, particularly, Gil Hodges. Cast includes Jerry Lewis, Marie McDonald, Sessue Hayakawa, Nobu McCarthy, Suzanne Pleshette, Barton MacLane, and Robert Hirano. (98 minutes, 1958)

Life on a Strand - Musical, brilliantly filmed narrative of a blind boy who is informed by his master that his ability to see can be fixed if he commits his life to music; he gets to be a saintly old gentleman still without vision who voyages from village to village with his youthful pupil harmonizing melodies, which he finds emotionally nurturing. Considerate film full with poetic energy, and a soundtrack of extraordinary melodies. Cast includes Liu Zhong Yuan, Huang Lei, Xu Qing, Ma Ling, and Zhang Zhengguan. (110 minutes, 1991)

The Devil Wears Prada - Miranda Priestly( Meryl Streep) is the domineering force in the fashion industry. When, Andrea Sachs, played by Anne Hathaway. by total luck, falls into a job as Miranda's assistant, she seems to have the chance of a lifetime. Working for the insufferable Miranda proves to be insufferable, no matter what the rewards might be.

Downloading films is a great option to get the films that you want to view. It is likely that this alternative will just get all the time more prevalent as time goes by. At this time you just need to make sure that you find a decent and permissible service and stay away from the sites that are breaching the piracy and copyright laws and then we will all be able to benefit from the convenience of this option in the future.

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Monday, December 21, 2009

The Casinos Online Are Fun!

Gambling is fun, face up to it. However, we do not want it to become an addictive habit. It is a risk. But as natural to us as eating a tender, rare, mouth salivating steak and as satisfying, if you win.

No, we cannot just pick up and drive or fly to Vegas to satisfy our gambling itch. We can, however, and this is the fun part, get into a game right in our own home.

With the time it takes for you to think about going to the casino to play, is the time it will take you to surf the internet, join an online tournament and begin play. Whatever your game is - poker or blackjack, you will find the best tables to play. Without worrying about any other players affecting your play.

Now, where to go?

There are choices of course. You could, however, download software or you can opt not to download any of the available software. There are games that have no requirement to download any software in order to play. There are players though who feel that downloading a software program gives you the advantage of playing the best casino games.

The casinos online have made the process of joining truly easy for you. When entering an online casino site, you are given your choice to either download a software program or just click on another option to play without downloading. There are different ways to play a casino online and they are flash, HTML, Live Dealer and Java.

Online casinos - Flash

With flash, in order for you to join and play, you do not need to download any software. This is an advantage. No need to overcrowd the storage in your computer with the senseless entertainment you would be exposed to. Another advantage would be - if your computer crashes - you can play from another computer. Maybe your co-worker’s computer, when he’s not around of course. Disadvantage - graphics are not as good as they are with downloaded software.

Live Dealer, Java and HTML are some of the casino program software available. The best gambling is experienced on the downloaded casino software. The game play is fast paced, the graphics are the most detailed with the downloaded software. Live Dealer provides more options than HTML and Java provide. And downloaded casino software doesn‘t need the latest software to access them.

Java, HTML and Live Dealer are among the casino downloaded programs. Downloaded casino software offer the best of the casino gambling online experience. These were among the first software programs to offer online gambling. Java may still be found, but the chances are you’ll not use it since you already have Live Dealer or using flash player.

The simplest graphics and with the least options are the HTML casinos. This may work best for you if your internet connection slow and hardware is ancient.

And finally, do not become an addict! Possibly this piece of advice is useless. Since I’m sure you’ve already opened your account, in a different window, and finished your download - right!

The Mapes Hotel: Reno's Lost Art Deco Jewel

By Ross Everett

On January 31, 2000, the historic Mapes Hotel in Reno was imploded by 75 pounds of explosives tucked into the art-deco structures support columns. The destruction of the Mapes put an end to years of efforts to preserve the building via lawsuits, redevelopment proposals, and grass roots action. The National Trust for Historic Preservation took up the cause of the Mapes, and challenged the destruction in a suit that eventually reached the Nevada Supreme Court.

While the efficacy and justification of demolishing the Mapes is debatable, one thing that is not is the glorious history of the hotel. It was built in'47, and signaled the start of the modern era of casino gambling. Despite the notoriety of Bugsy Siegel and the Flamingo in Las Vegas, it was the Mapes that became the first building in the nation to have a hotel, casino and live entertainment under one roof. It also became the hotel of choice for celebrities staying in Northern Nevada. Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe stayed at The Mapes during the filming of 'The Misfits'. Joseph McCarthy, America's famed anti-Communist crusader, admitted to a reporter over cocktails in the Mapes Lounge that he really didn't have a list of Communists in the US despite his frequent and vitriolic insistence to the contrary.

In the 50s and 60s it became, along with Lake Tahoes Cal-Neva Lodge the place to be seen in Northern Nevada. The top floor, window-walled Sky Room showcased performances by the legends: Sinatra, Louis Prima, Mae West, Milton Berle, Sammy Davis, Jr., and the Marx Brothers among others. Subsequent years were not kind to downtown Reno but the Mapes prospered during the 60's and 70's. The hotel finally closed in'82, due more to financial difficulties experienced by the Mapes family caused by one of their other Northern Nevada gaming properties than anything else.

Reno has yet to experience the sort of growth that has been seen in Southern Nevada, and for that reason the destruction of the Mapes is more open to debate than the hotel demolitions to the south. Even the demolition of The Sands--perhaps the most historically significant casino in the state--is hard to argue against given the inability of such a small property to compete in the current Las Vegas marketplace and in light of the value of the mid-strip real estate.

This is not the case in Reno, where land and buildings for development in virtually every casino area are abundant. The official reason that the Mapes had to come down was that the city needed the land--which sits along the banks of the Truckee River--to expand its riverside district of art galleries, restaurants and shops. The revitalization of downtown Reno is definitely needed and a legitimate goal, but at the same time it is hard to think that the Mapes was a barrier to this. Indeed, a number of proposals for redevelopment including office space, artists lofts and upscale senior housing would have probably served to enhance the livability of the downtown area. For whatever reason, the City Redevelopment Authority wouldn't approve any of the proposals and the fate of the Mapes was sealed.

The behavior of the City Redevelopment Authority throughout the process has come into question. Overlooking the Truckee River, the hotel was perfectly placed between the downtown casino area and the riverfront district. In'96, the city purchased the htoel and began accepting proposals for redevelopment. Despite receiving a number of proposals that made sense both in terms of their financial workability and positive impact on the downtown area, the City Redevelopment Authority nixed all of them and insisted that the hotel be razed.

Following the 2000 demolition, the lot remained vacant for over a year until a temporary ice skating rink was hastily constructed the following winter. The site now houses a permanent ice skating rink which, while not a bad use for the land, isn't the sort of game changing improvement suggested by the City Redevelopment Agency and their adamant insistence that the building be demolished. To the contrary, it appears they had no specific plan or even general idea of what to do with the land but for some reason wanted to see the hotel come down. This has led to all manner of speculation, ranging from financial self interest to a rumor that the structure was 'haunted' and needed to be destroyed to forestall future paranormal activity in Washoe County. Whatever the reason, the city of Reno lost a valuable landmark that played a significant part in the economic growth of the entire state.

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Sunday, December 20, 2009

Exposing The Side Effects Of Creatine

By Christian James

Very little is known about creatine and its effect on the body. Most of the people who take it in the form of supplements are unaware of the possible side effects of creatine supplements and continue to abuse them. The truth is that people who act better if they knew better.

To the layman creatine is a substance that the body produces and stores in the muscles. In actual fact it is a building block of protein, an amino acid that helps to build muscle tissue and body mass. It is produced by the kidneys and the liver in a natural form but it can be taken as a supplement that is manufactured in the lab.

When you take creatine supplements carelessly you can pollute your body with creatine. Now when creatine is in the body it has a natural ability to absorb water. So when you have too much creatine in your system the absorption of water from different parts of the body can lead to muscle cramps owing to dehydration.

Another known side effect of creatine is the gaining of extra weight. This occurs along the same lines as muscle cramps, the only difference is that weight gain occurs in parts of the body that absorb water as a direct result of the existence of excessive amounts of creatine.

Diabetes can emerge or worsen if glycemic sugars are taken in order to enhance the uptake of creatine by the body. Glycemic sugars eventually accumulate in the system to the point where insulin meant to breakdown sugars fails to execute this function effectively. So when the glycemic sugars are not broken down by insulin the sugar levels in the body become intolerable to the point where diabetes sets in or worsens.

Apart from these there are other side effects of creatine. You can easily develop kidney stones or heat exhaustion owing to the absorption of water by creatine. It is also possible to cause damage to the blood vessels; kidneys and liver if your diabetes worsens.

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Saturday, December 19, 2009

Draw a Cartoon Me Face Avatar

By Carmeline Calvistacro

When I was younger I wanted to learn how to draw cartoons of photographs. It is difficult to draw an accurate cartoon me face because it can take a lot of practice. Drawing simple cartoons and tracing is quite easy, but when you try to draw a cartoon when you are looking at a photo is very difficult.

Some people have an artistic gift and are very patient when they draw a cartoon by looking at photos and their cartoons are not too funny. With me, my drawings look more like cartoons even if it is not intentional.

I'd take my box of 64 Crayola crayons and use the tiny sharpener on the back. I'd pick my favorite colors whether or not they matched or not I did not care. I might try to draw a cartoon me face of my buddies and they'd giggle.

My drawings have become more detailed as I grew up, but it is still very difficult for me to draw a cartoon me face avatar of someone in a short period of time. Sometimes I will spend hours drawing someone's ears and mouth and if I can't complete it I just leave it unfinished.

There are so many things you can do to make the face look like it is alive. I'd spend a couple of hours drawing eyes and it took far longer when I drew women. One of my favorite features to draw on a cartoon me face is the beard. Beards and mustaches are fun to draw and truly help to improve someones facial features.

Some people take art classes to improve their drawing skills so they can quickly and easily create a cartoon me face. Art classes actually walk you through the drawing process by using simple steps.

Taking an art class is not expensive if you go to a community college rather than an art institute. Nowadays you can create a cartoon me face quickly by using drawing computer programs that you can download for free off the internet. It is easy to find all sorts of these programs online and they are free for the most part.

Drawing cartoons takes a lot of time and patience although it is still very entertaining. One of the most challenging things will always be to draw a cartoon me face by just looking at a photo.

Creating a cartoon me face of someone from a photograph makes a great gift and is sure to make all of your friends and family laugh. Just practice for a few hours and you will be drawing cartoon me avatars of yourself and everyone you know.

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Friday, December 18, 2009

Playing To Win Against Top Poker Players

How do professional poker players get so good? Why do they always win? What is it about them that makes them win over and over, and so much money? But the most important question is: How do I play like they do?

First, you need to learn what makes a top poker player so good. You have to start practicing your game and learn what it is the pros do to keep on top. Here are some tips the pros have handed out.

- Keep in mind that you can lose. No one wins every single hand, this is something that you just have to accept. Don't let it make you unhappy or angry, and don't give up simply because you've had a bad hand or two. No matter what happened yesterday, the odds stay the same. Keep in mind that you have the same chance of losing today as you did yesterday. The game doesn't care how good your day went, or how badly.

- Think about the big win. Everyone wants that pot. Ideally, the winner will be you. But remember, everyone has the same goal. Don't worry about them, though, focus on yourself. You're not there to make friends. In the game, look out for yourself and your hand. Keeping your eye on your cards will make you focused and give you a better chance to win.

- Keep your problems at home. A good player sits down and thinks of nothing but the game. If something happened that you can't stop thinking about, then don't play. If you bring your problems with you to the table, you will end up spending more time worried about them than thinking about winning.

- Dedicate yourself to the game. You have to focus on the table. Think about nothing else but the cards in your hand and the money in the pot. Don't let your mind wander away. If you really want to be a winner, you have to dedicate yourself 100% to the game.

Profession pokers are all about the game. They're not out there to make friends and socialize, they're there to win and win big. If you want to win like a pro, you have to play like one. The reason they look so serious when they play is because they are taking the game seriously.

These four tips should help you get started on the path to being a pro. But you also have to practice with your poker skills. The right attitude will only get you so far if you don't know how to play the game. Practice regularly and play as often as you can to get better. To be the best at the game you have to know and understand the rules as well as have the right mindset. If you put everything into being a top poker player, than you soon will be a pro. Keep these tips in mind, practice, practice, practice, and one day you will be the player other people want to be.

Subsequent View Movie Summaries

By Roscoe Kirkland

On websites like 'Netflex', you can even download popular movies. You just go to the site and sign up for your account, and begin downloading within minutes. With the way the Internet is today, anyone can promptly and effortlessly discover their movie of choice within just a matter of moments. You can have fun, and you can do it cheaply, sometimes even FREE.

Find a wonderful movie and download it straight to your computer so you can watch it whenever you desire!

Belles on Their Toes - Here, Myrna Loy plays a widowed architect who will crusade to bring up her aging brood. 20th Century Fox back lot seen at its best in recollecting early 1900s America. Clifton Webb makes a succinct appearance at the end. Cast includes Myrna Loy, Jeanne Crain, Debra Paget, Jeffrey Hunter, Edward Arnold, Hoagy Carmichael, Barbara Bates, Robert Arthur, Verna Felton, and Martin Milner. (89 minutes, 1952)

Batman - The comic book television series hits the silver screen. An wicked and diabolical criminal, acknowledged as The Joker, is trying to take over Gotham City. The police are powerless to stop him. The city is in peril, until a new super hero emerges. An unknown force, so to be called Batman comes on the scene and defeats The Joker and save the city.

Clue - Silly and insipid whodunit based on the fashionable board game of the same name with all the recognizable characters Mrs. Peacock, Colonel Mustard, Miss Red, et al. gathered for a murderous day in a Victorian mansion. Everyone tries enormously hard but there is nothing they can do to save this weak film. Cast includes Eileen Brennan, Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn, Christopher Lloyd, Michael McKean, Martin Ponder, and Howard Hesseman. (87 minutes, 1985)

The Hex - Actor Keith steps behind the camera to direct this down-home terror film. A deadly meteorite lands on a Tennessee farm, indisputably driving the people insane after contaminating their food. Cast includes Will Wheaton, Claude Akins, Cooper Huckabee, John Schneider, and Amy Wheaton. (90 minutes, 1987)

Ruby Gentry - Dull, strolling account of simple-minded Southerner Jones wedding well-off Malden to spite Heston, the gentleman she loves Cast includes Jennifer Jones, Charlton Heston, Karl Malden, and Josephine Hutchinson. (82 minutes, 1952)

Hanky Panky - Blameless designer Wilder is chased by snoops, cops, etc. Unsurprising, hardly comical comedy-thriller, with Radner miscast as the love interest. The flick was intended to be a follow-up to Stir Crazy, although Richard Pryor's part was changed for Gilda. You've watched it all before, and better. Cast includes Gene Wilder, Gilda Radner, Kathleen Quinlan, Richard Widmark, Robert Prosky, Josef Sommer, and Johnny Sekka. (88 minutes, 1982)

Alfie - Well redone interpretation of Bill Naughton play he additionally wrote. Caine is splendid as philandering Cockney playboy who is put in a very difficult situation. Cast includes Michael Caine, Shelley Winters, Millicent Marin, Julia Foster, Jane Asher, Shirley Anne Field, Graham Stark, and Murray Melvin. (114 minutes, 1966)

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Thursday, December 17, 2009

Solo Or Multiplayer Casino Games

Internet casinos resemble the La Vegas casinos in may ways. They use intense-audio effects, a large selection of games, and flashy graphics. On the Internet though you have a choice between multiplayer or solo casino games.

In Las Vegas there are also games that are played with other players such as poker, or the games that one plays by themselves such as the slots. However, with an Internet casino you normally get to choose how you play. Numerous games are played solo but other games are played with multiple players.

Games Played Solo

One game that normally is just a solo game is slots, offline or on the Internet. This is a machine that is played by one person.

With Internet casinos, many options exist for the player to go solo with the only opponent being the computer. One game that is normally played solo is blackjack. Several of the games that can be downloaded from the Internet casinos a meant for solo play opposing the computer.

Some of the enjoyment with the casino games really is the excitement of competing and winning against the other players. This is the reason the multiplayer versions for the casino games have been and continue to be highly popular.

Casino Games Played Multiplayer

There are numerous casino games that are designed for multiplayer for you to play. These games let you socialize with others, while you display your abilities for the game.

Most Internet multiplayer casino games also have a chat room available. This chat room give the players a chance to have conversation similar to what they would have in a Las Vegas casino. This makes the whole experience seem more realistic and helps you check out the competition since you can't see them. Slots even become interactive with having the chat room to use to talk to people playing it.

Multiplayer versions are offered for most of the kinds of casino games. From bingo to blackjack to poker, you will see these versions offered so that you have the ability to interact with other people, that are playing the games too.

Multiplayer versus Solo Casino Games

Multiplayer versions of casino games give you a different type of enjoyment for your experience in Internet gaming. You can even make new friends with playing these games. Having this adds to the Internet playing enjoyment.

Internet gaming is fun and convenient, some of the Las Vegas enthusiasm for the games are lost though, if you only play solo ones. It may be faster to play the solo game which you can play at your convenience, but you will get more social interaction with the multiplayer games.

You will have to see if the rooms are open for the mulitplayer games. Most of the online casinos have more than enough rooms available so you will not have to wait that long if all are full. It is well worth the wait though, because it is so much fun to play the multiplayer games, due to the social interaction.

How To Improve Vertical Leap - Increasing Vertical Jump

By Brian Fender

The competition between sportspeople gets more intense every year. Today a lot of sports involve having a good jumping ability. Obviously in basketball it is essential, but also in other sports such as baseball and soccer. There are many factors which play a part in how high you can jump, there is food and genetics, but it is possible for anyone to improve vertical leap.

As with any sporting ability, being able to jump high cannot be acquired without exercise and training, there is no magic spell that will allow you to leap higher. To begin with it helps to try and practice jumping as often you can. How high you are able to jump is usually determined by the strength of your calf muscles as these give you lift.

Daily exercises should be focused towards improving the size and strength of leg muscles. Perhaps the simplest way to do this is to have a daily session with a skipping rope. If you can skip for approximately thirty minutes each day your leg muscles will become toned and you will also have much better balance and coordination.

When jumping you also need to control your positioning and posture. Many athletes have found that hopping can help them in this regard. Hopping exercises allow both legs to develop in their strength and coordination.

Professional sports coaches will suggest using steps or stairs to improve vertical leap and leg strength. Even if you don't have access to a staircase you can practice on two or three steps.

No matter what your motive, increasing vertical leap is possible. For the best results try incorporating exercises that also improve your lung capacity, doing big leaps can often take your breath away.

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Wednesday, December 16, 2009

A Guide To Casino Special Offers

Online casinos are increasingly popular, with gamers choosing these virtual casinos over brick and mortar establishments in many cases for their convenience. Even through online casinos are so popular, competition in this industry is stiff, with casinos always in search of promotions that will attract gamers to their casino sites.

How Special Offers and Promotions Work

These casino special offers can be a boon to gamers and casinos alike. The casinos are happy to get new players' business and of course, gamers are thrilled with the free games, sign up bonuses, extra winnings and other casino promotions that they benefit from.

Casino special offers vary from one online casino to the next, as do the terms and conditions of these offers. Gamers should always read the terms and conditions in their entirety to make sure that they fully understand the conditions of these promotional offers. Not all of these promotions are what they seem - and the last thing you want is to enter some sort of agreement which benefits only the casino.

Types of Casino Special Offers

You'll see a wide variety of different online casino promotions out there, but the ones which follow are the most commonly used by casinos in the effort to retain existing players and attract new business.

- Sign up bonuses: These are bonuses which are offered to players who are new to a given casino. When first signing up for an account at the casino, new players may be given what is essentially free money to play with. The average signup bonus is around $100, though players are usually given this amount in installments over a few month's time.

- Percentage bonus: A percentage bonus involves the casino matching (up to a specified limit) the money that you deposit into your account. This percentage may be anywhere from 10% and up, though is typically above 50% and sometimes as high as 500%.

- Matching bonus: A matching bonus is a type of casino special offer where the casino will match the amount that you put into your account. As with percentage bonuses, there is almost always a limit on how much the casino will match.

- Reload offer: This is a type of bonus which may be offered to existing players rather than new ones. These bonuses involve the casino "reloading" the player's account with money to encourage them to keep coming back and gaming at the casino.

- Preferred deposit: This is a type of casino promotion which encourages gamers to use a specific type of payment, usually through some sort of percentage bonus for this form of payment.

- Loyalty rewards: This is an offer made to players who have been with the same casino for a specified time; this is usually a bonus of some sort, though the exact type of reward varies.

- High roller reward: These promotions are designed to reward gamers who make large deposits. Typically, this is in the form of a matching or percentage bonus, though this depends on the casino.

These are just a few of the more common casino special offers and casino promotions you may find online - there are many others which you'll come across when looking into different online casinos. Casino special offers are intended to get the interest of players and there are many of these promotions which represent a good deal to players. Just make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully to make sure that what sounds like a great value actually is before you commit to anything.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Progressive Jackpots - What's The Big Deal?

If you have been playing in the online casinos then you have probably heard about progressive jackpots. What are they and why is everyone so excited about them? Progressive jackpots are a way to win big and there are plenty of reasons why people are talking about them.

The Definition

A progressive jackpot is not complex to understand. Simply put it is a jackpot that gets larger each time a game is played. Progressive jackpots are available on gaming machines, like slot machines. The jackpot is not just for one machine, though.

One jackpot can have several machines linked to it, so everyone playing on the machines linked to that jackpot are playing for that jackpot. This is both good and bad. On the one hand you are competing with others so your chances of winning are lessened, but on the other hand, everyone playing is building up the jackpot.

Why All the Hype?

Progressive jackpots are definitely very popular. People seem to love them and love to talk about them. Why is there so much hype about this type of jackpot?

The bottom line is that progressive jackpots offer you a chance to win some of the highest jackpots available. Since they are constantly being built up, the minute you hit the right winning combination you win a large chunk of cash. Who wouldn't want to try to win a huge jackpot?

People also like progressive jackpots because they are associated with gaming machines. Slot machines are already very popular. They require no special knowledge to play. They are easy to find and available in every online casino.

Another perk of these machines is that in order to win players are usually required to play a certain number of credits. Some players do not realize this and end up playing a minimum number of credits, so they cannot win the jackpot, but every time they play they are increasing the jackpot. This makes the odds more in favor of those who are playing the required number of credits.

Finally, playing progressive jackpots has the same odds of playing a regular machine. You have the same chance of winning, but you can win so much more with progressive jackpots. Basically, you get more for your money since you have the same chance of winning as when you play a regular machine.

Playing progressive jackpots is something you have to decide for yourself. You can stick to regular machines and still win big, but you will not have the chance to win the huge jackpots that are paid out through progressive jackpots.

When making your decision about playing progressive or regular jackpot games, make sure you think about everything. Consider the number of players and the amount of money that you have to play. Do not get tricked into thinking that you have a better chance with a progressive jackpot machine because you don't. Stick with your usually slot strategies that you use to win on regular machines and you should be fine if you do choose to play a progressive jackpot.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Win Big by Playing Progressive Jackpots

Playing Progressive jackpots is far more exciting than playing for a standard payout. These money pots can contain hundreds of thousands of dollars and it all goes to the lucky winner. No wonder everyone is buzzing about these big buck payouts. If you want to know more about how to get in on the action then read on and discover all you need to know about playing progressive jackpots.

Knowledge is King

Make sure you do your homework and understand the casino game and the rules regarding progressive jackpots before you decide to play. If you have a good understanding of the game and know how to calculate the odds it gives you a decided edge. Knowledge trumps even a wild card, and the more you know about jackpots and gaming the easier it is for you to determine the right play that will make you a winner.

Progressive Jackpot from A-Z

When you have a progressive jackpot it means that the amount of money in the pot increases each time the game is played. The payout is constantly tracked and displayed on screen to all players. Games that have a progressive jackpot are being offered on multiple sites so that they will attract the maximum interest. These types of jackpots are the highest payouts offered by casinos and gaming sites. As more players come to the table the jackpot grows. The higher the jackpot grows the more players come back to the table. This is why the payout amounts for these types of games grow so rapidly.

The only difference between slots or video poker that is played for a progressive jackpot and those that are being played for regular jackpots is the fact that the progressive jackpot pays the winner more money. There are no tricks or gimmicks involved, and the winning odds are unchanged.

Increasing the Jackpot Amount

Each time a progressive jackpot game is played and not won the jackpot amount increases.Playing for a progressive jackpot will require you to pony up a minimum number of credits if you want to be eligible for the money payout. You can still try the game without investing the total number of credits, but should you win you will not be awarded the jackpot. Any of the credits that are collected by players of a progressive jackpot game will be added to the jackpot amount, even those that come from players who have not entered enough credits to be eligible for the payout.

The money amount in a progressive jackpot grows rapidly because there are so many players trying their luck at multiple gaming sites around the world. Building a jackpot with an astronomical payout is not hard to do because of the high number of players. If you check out some of these jackpot games you will see that the payout amount is increasing almost every minute.

A progressive jackpot is reset to a minimum amount immediately after it has been won. Once this is done players can begin playing and build the jackpot amount up once again. Even when the amount is reset to a minimum number the jackpot will be rebuilt quickly.

Stick to your Playing Strategy

All casino games are played the same regardless of what type of jackpot you are playing for. A progressive jackpot does not change anything except the amount of the payout. You should remember this and stick to your usual playing style and game strategy. Do not allow those big dollar jackpots to make you forget the importance of careful, responsible playing. Some people are dazzled by the large dollar amounts they see onscreen and they start playing so free and loose that they soon have no hope of winning.

Don't be afraid to start playing progressive jackpots but just stick to your standard gaming play. Do not let large jackpot amounts intimidate you and cause to you forget the limits you set. Keep your gaming strategies in mind and never shift your playing style just because the jackpots are continuing to increase well into 6 numbers

When you opt to play a progressive jackpot game you are giving yourself a chance to win a really big payout. Still the odds for a win with these games are the same as they would be on any other game. However there is certainly more to be gained by winning one of these enormous payouts as opposed to the smaller payouts offered with those regular games.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

MMA Flashback: Kimbo Slice And Elite XC Debut On CBS

By Ross Everett

It wasnt the decisive blowout that EliteXC was hoping far to send Kimbo Slices stardom into the stratosphere but with some seriously tense moments for the former street fighter against a game James Thompson everyone concerned is likely happy with a victory of any sort. Kimbo at times displayed some surprising skill on the ground, while at other times looked amateurish and lost.

This strategy worked well for Thompson until the final round. Though "The Colossus" kept his feet through several punishing combinations, the beginning of the end came when a Slice punch nearly sheared his ear off. The bloody, grotesque ear was clearly at risk of being seriously damaged and Kimbo punctuated this with four or five uncontested power punches. Thompson by this point was out on his feet and the ref jumped in to bring the proceedings to a halt giving Kimbo a TKO victory.

While Thompson and his corner complained of an early stoppage, given the severity of the ear injury and the four or five uncontested power shots by Kimbo its a tough case to make. Furthermore, it was consistent with the officiating all night which obviously was trying to err on the side of caution in the first MMA event on prime time major network television. The ref was quick to call several of the earlier bouts, and the ringside physician was involved in two more bouts. Clearly, everyone concerned wanted to take no chances and risk an ugly late stoppage or serious injury with a huge broadcast TV audience"many of whom were assumed to be MMA neophytes.

Despite the tough test faced by Kimbo Slice and a disappointing no-contest in the semifinal bout between Robbie Lawler and tough Scott Smith, EliteXC overall has to be very happy with how the event came off. The presentation was highly professional all night, and the announcing was superb. There was no question that Gus Johnson and Mauro Ranallo are solid pros, and Frank Shamrock is obviously a well spoken and experienced expert commentator but the three meshed together exceptionally well.

The emphasis from the start was on selling the sport of MMA, with the promotion taking a secondary role. This was done via nicely produced and informative instructional videos, which would be helpful to a first time MMA viewer but didnt come off as sophomoric to the seasoned aficionado.

Overall, it was a professionally produced and entertaining night of action. With the exception of the less than decisive victory by Kimbo in the main event, it couldnt have gone better for EliteXC had it been scripted. The end result is that both of their marquee names among the general public--Slice and Carano--remained undefeated.

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Friday, December 11, 2009

Online Real Series Slots 101

Real Series slots are slot machines from Real Time Gaming or RTG. Real Time Gaming is well known in the industry and the top software being used at elite internet casinos. RTG software is well respected for providing an amazing online gaming experience. RTG provides exceptional graphics, a wide variety of games, fast payouts and competent customer service. RTG has now expanded into offering Real Series slots that go above and beyond what you could ever get before in online gaming.

What to Expect from Real Series Slots

The thing that makes RTG stand out from other online casino software is the attention to detail. With RTG games, including Real Series slots, you get some amazing features that make your gaming experience amazing and take it to a whole new level. If you are not careful, you may actually start to think you are in a real life casino instead of playing online.

Here is an overview of the Real Series slots features:

Quick gaming experience - Real Series slots are fast no matter how fast your internet connection may be. Even the slowest dial up connections will be fast.

Amazing look - RTG is known for providing realistic and entertaining graphics. This is no different with Real Series slots. They add to the game, making it fun and exciting to play. There are eye catching animations, too, that just really add something to the game that you cannot find anywhere else.

Small cost - These RTG slots have minimum credits, so you can play a lot even if you don't have a huge budget. An additional plus is that the slots can be played with money instead of confusing credits.

Multiple pay lines - With the large variety of pay lines, winning is a lot easier. You may not win huge, but you will probably win something when you play Real Series slots.

Optional Features

Besides the features listed above, some Real Series slots games will have special features that let you win more, play more and have more fun. These special features include:

- The ability to earn free spins.

- Bonus rounds where you have the chance to win a higher jackpot.

- Growing progressive jackpots that offer the largest possible payout in the casino.

Examples of Real Series Slots

There are numerous Real Series slots form which to choose. Figuring out which one to play can be confusing. Here is an overview of some of the slot machine games you may want to give a try:

- Archilees Slot: offers free spin bonuses up to 25 spins at 3x

- Ronin: higher risk game with random bonus round to earn free spins

- Prince of Sherwood: a fun themed game that offers some unique bonus rounds

Once you play Real Series slots and compare them to other slots you will never want to go back. The overall experience with a Real Series slot machine is something that cannot quite be explained. No amount of saying how great the graphics are or how fun the games are to play will do justice to these amazing slot machines. You just have to give them a try and have a blast to see why people love Real Series slots.

Airsoft And Radios

By Duncan Finch

Radios are a requirement for playing airsoft games and are used by teams and commanders as a way to communicate, but which radio should your choose?

Before choosing a radio, it is important to recognize all the requirements such as are you playing in areas with a lot of buildings, indoors, outdoors in open areas or all of the above? Will you use the radio at long ranges (i.e., for command purposes) or within a small unit? What sort of headset will you require? It is important to consider all these questions and more when choosing your radio.

One major factor when determining the radio's effectiveness is the radio band. Personal radios use 1 of 3 bands with each band designed for different terrains.

Personal Mobile Radio or PMR and Family Radio Service or FRS are two of the most reasonably priced types of radios on the market. They tend to be more compact, have small antennas, lower power, and can operate on-- channels of the FM service. In addition, they are compatible with many types of microphones and headsets and do not need a license to operate.

However, because they have low powered signals and small antennas, they have difficulty piercing dense forest and buildings so their range is significantly reduced compared to what they are quoted as capable of. For airsoft, PMR and FRS radios work great within a unit, but they are not effective for command because of their limited range.

Multi User Radio Service (MURS) radios are higher powered alternatives to FRS and PMR radios and use an FM service with five channels. As they can connect to external antennas and their signals are capable of bending over hills, they are a popular choice for hikers and climbers and do not require a license to use.

However, MURS radios are more expensive than their counterparts are and you are unable to use as wide a range of headsets with them. Also, even though they have stronger signals, they are not able to penetrate buildings and dense forests either so they are generally not a good option for airsoft.

General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) radios are the highest performance personal radios, operating on significantly higher powers (up to 50 watts) and up to 16 duplex channels. They can also utilise repeaters and a much better at penetrating dense forests and buildings.

However, this performance does come at a cost. GMRS radios can be very bulky and expensive and licenses are required to use them.

So which should you buy? It's likely that budget will be a factor, so identify the radios that you can afford and revisit your requirements. If you're purchasing radios for each member of your team it's likely that you'll be on a tight budget, in which case FRS / PMR radios may be the best choice initially. If you are commanding a group of teams, you will likely need a GMRS radio to communicate effectively, so have a shop around.

The final decision is at your discretion. As with any purchase, research your options beforehand to avoid disappointment.

About the Author:

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Real Series Slots- Understanding the Basics

If you haven't had the opportunity to play real series slots before you are missing out on crazy exciting. These slots derive from Real Time Gaming or better known as RTG. It's considered to be one of the best softwares out there and is used by almost all the elite internet casinos today. You are able to enjoy an online gaming experience much like the one at your local casino without all the people surrounding you. There are tons of games, fast payouts, and even good customer service available.

What Should You Expect from Real Series Slot?

Attention to detail is probably one of the biggest benefits to this online casino software. It's the closest thing to being at your nearby casino, and enjoying all the same types of benefits. However, you'll be able to save on gas, food costs, and even adult beverage prices by enjoying this from the comfort of your own home.

Real Series Slots Features

Quick Gaming Experience- When you play with Real Series slots you will soon realize that it doesn't matter if you have dial-up or high-speed Internet. Either way you will be able to enjoy fast gaming thanks to RTG.

Amazing Look- The appeal is uncanny, and when you see it for yourself you will realize the graphics are as realistic as can be. It just allows the game to be more enjoyable and provide you the same fun and excitement as you find in a real casino. The animations are extremely eye catching, and when you come across a casino not using RTG you will know.

Small Cost- These are the Real Series machines that have the minimum credits available. So if you don't have the biggest budget tonight, you can still win money by playing small.

Multiple Pay Lines- If you want more than one chance to win then you have to take advantage of the multiple pay line slots. There are several variations out there that range from 3 lines to 200.

Optional Features

Even though all the features above are great, you can find RTG machines that let you win more and allow for more playing time. These include:

- Earning free spins.

- Bonus rounds.

- Progressive Jackpots

Some RTG Examples

Probably the only downfall to RTG machines is figuring out which ones you want to play. So here is a short list of slots you may want to try:

- Archilees Slot: offers free spin bonuses up to 25 spins at 3x

- Ronin: higher risk game with random bonus round to earn free spins

- Prince of Sherwood: a fun themed game that offers some unique bonus rounds

We will warn you; the first time you play RTG machines, you won't want to go back to the old ones you were playing. The overall experience can't be explained. Sure we could sit here and boast about them all day, but until you have the opportunity to play them yourself, it just won't be the same.

Are You Good Enough for an Acting Agent?

By Mike Fenward

Acting is similar to any other profession in that it's easy to do but difficult to master. We've all acted at some point in our lives and some of us have gone on to make it our career choice. Like any career, you're more likely to get hired for acting jobs if you have skill and experience. This is good news for people who are already actors, but what if you're not an actor and want to give it a shot? If you've thought about taking on Acting Jobs, there are some things to do that will ensure you succeed.

First things first: you're going to need to know how to act. No one is born knowing how to act well, and typically you're going to need some kind of coaching or teaching to steer yourself in the right direction. The best place to get this is with an acting class. You can usually find good classes at your local community college, and they will teach you the intricacies of acting. You'll learn proper voice control and how to effectively use your body and face to convey emotions and expressions. If you're looking for more "field work," give community theatre a shot. You'll get a feel for interaction and acting with other actors and props. Though not quite the same as film acting, it's important and useful experience that will help you when the cameras are on. Stay with your classes and the community theatre circuit and hone your skills.

Once you got some experience and are comfortable with your acting, you need to locate a photographer and get headshots made. These are unique photographs that show potential casting directors your physique, body and facial structure, and unique features about yourself; important things to consider when casting roles. These photographs need to be simple and effective, without fancy lighting or odd angles. Do not ever let a photographer experiment with you. You want a director to remember you, not a crazy angle or exotic color scheme. A good many actors will get their headshots before anything else, and while this practice isn't necessary, it's something to keep in mind.

Now that you have your headshots and you can act to a degree, it's time to begin auditioning. Unless you are an amazing actor, you're not going to land roles in major motion pictures immediately. You're going to have to work your way from the bottom. Start with student films and independent productions. You most likely will not get paid for these productions, but you'll get a copy of your performance for your reel. This is another very important tool, as it is a visual representation of how well you act. These beginning roles are going to fill out your reel and give casting directors more material to work with when selecting roles. No matter what you do, always request a copy of your performance. Your reel is just as important as your headshots.

Now that you've got a good looking reel and some experience under your belt, it's time to begin seeking representation by an agent. This will almost certainly lead to more work and, in turn, more footage for your reel and your resume. Having an agent can even lead to landing roles in major motion pictures, so be sure you try and get one as soon as you can. A great number of people are now using a valuable resources like TalentPostings.com, which allows aspiring actors to post their profiles and quickly find an agent to represent them. This is often the ultimate goal of many up-and-coming actors, and it's essential to taking your career further.

Above all else, be sure that you always pursue your acting career and never give up. These days it is becoming much more common for people to get discovered online by simply posting their talents online for the world to see. Places like TalentPostings have acting jobs and casting calls for people just starting careers in acting. The key is to remain focused and don't get discouraged. There are a lot of actors or potential actors in the world. Prove you're better, and you'll see the fruits of your labor.

About the Author:

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Real Series Slots- Why They're the Best Software

If you take a look at all the casinos online today, the elite companies choose to use Real Series Slots. If you haven't heard of them before you might have heard of Real Time Gaming or RTG. Companies have raved about this software for quite some time and if you're looking for an online gaming experience like no other, it's definitely worth utilizing. You will have plenty of games to choose from, extremely fast payouts, and some of the best customer service out there.

What Should You Expect from Real Series Slot?

One of the biggest benefits you can expect from Real Series Slots is the attention to detail they're casino software offers. Out of all the available choices today, they are considered to be the closest thing to your local casino. The only difference is it's not overcrowded, you can play what you want when you want, and money on gas, food costs, and adult beverage purchases.

Real Series Slots Features

Quick Gaming Experience- Once you're able to start playing, it won't matter if you have the slowest connection out there, or the fastest one. You will be able to enjoy the same benefits either way.

Amazing Look- You will also find that the gaming appeal alone is one way ahead of its time. When you look at the graphics you will see that they are as realistic to a slot machine in the casino near you as possible. This means the same fun and excitement, and with some eye catching animations as well.

Small Cost- Lower denomination slots are also available through the Real Series Slots. So if you only want to play to relieve some stress or just budget your money better, you'll be able to do so with lower cost slots.

Multiple Pay Lines- Having more than one chance to win on each spin is very enticing to some, and if this is the case for you then multiple pay lines will be the best choice. You can find everything from 3 lines to 200 depending on the game.

Other Features

While everything above looks great, there will be additional features on some of the RTG slots like:

- Earning free spins.

- Bonus rounds.

- Progressive Jackpots

Some RTG Slots

If we had to produce a downfall to the RTG type software, it's probably choosing which ones you want to play. Below you will find a few that are popular today:

- Archilees Slot: offers free spin bonuses up to 25 spins at 3x

- Ronin: higher risk game with random bonus round to earn free spins

- Prince of Sherwood: a fun themed game that offers some unique bonus rounds

However, once you get your hands on these you won't want to go back to what you were playing with before. The Real Series Slots are the best choice for anyone looking to play or start their own online casino. Unfortunately, telling you about all the benefits isn't nearly as good as seeing them in action yourself.