17 Januari, 2008
Alam/Nature
Stress Symtoms-What Are The Causes?
Are You Energy Levels Being Eaten By The Sounds Around You?
Prevent Anxiety and Panic Attacks with Proper Diet
Stress-Understand,Recognize and Manage It
Methods of Reducing Stress
Pilates VS Yoga
Yoga for Weight Loss-How To Lose Weight with Yoga
Yoga for Better Sleep
Are You Satisfied with Your Daily Yoga Exercise?
Are You Energy Levels Being Eaten By The Sounds Around You?
Prevent Anxiety and Panic Attacks with Proper Diet
Stress-Understand,Recognize and Manage It
Methods of Reducing Stress
Pilates VS Yoga
Yoga for Weight Loss-How To Lose Weight with Yoga
Yoga for Better Sleep
Are You Satisfied with Your Daily Yoga Exercise?
Using Decorative Paint for Living Room
You may have tried everything you can think of in order to make changes in your home. Sometimes changing a color on the wall can make a big difference. If you don't want to leave the rooms in the last century it is time for a change. Sometimes making the simple changes can increase the feel of the room. Guests will love the room and wonder what you have changed. Paint can be the best way to make an affordable change.
Painting your living room with more artistic ways can change the look and feel of your home completely. Newer techniques can make your rooms more stylish and modern with the correct use of colors. The best way of giving your rooms a dramatic effect is by using decorative paint styles. Decorative painting can simply refer to creating a wallpaper look by painting designs through a stencil. Stenciling the wall with your chosen designs can give the impression of a fake wallpaper effect. Wall stencils can also be used to design other rooms such as creating cartoons for your kids' bedrooms. Other effects can also be produced on the walls by simply using a sponge instead of a normal painting brush. A sponge or even a rag can be used to dab the paint to give it a more different and textured look.
Another kind of effect which is very popular with interior decoration ideas, especially for the living room is the 'light' effect. Playing with the colors so that it gives the wall the impression of a shadow, or a shimmery effect can be done at ease by using two different shades for the coats. For a shadowy look, start painting one side of the wall with a dark shade then continue painting the rest of the wall with a shade lighter and so on. The shimmery effect can be achieved by painting the wall with a dark or bright color of your choice, preferably 3-4 coats and then giving a last coat with a golden shimmer or bronze shimmer paint. This lends luster to the wall. The latest popular trend in decorative painting for the living rooms is creating a fake effect of popularly known as faux effect. You can achieve a brick like appearance to your walls or even a marble look. More creatively, the paint can be used to produce an artificial, yet real looking leathery or suede textures that give a very sophisticated look to living rooms. Now-a-days there are kinds of paints that do not require any extra effort, but produce the effects of the textured look. These paints, although cost a bit on the higher side than the normal paints, create the basic texture look on which you can create more elaborate effects.
The only thing that one must keep in mind before going for decorative paints is the color scheme. Only painting the rooms cannot produce the desired effect, proper co-ordination and accessorizing, the right furniture, lampshades and other such things are necessary.
For more home decorating tips look at Budget Furnishing and Making A Wheel Chair Friendly Home
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Brennan
Painting your living room with more artistic ways can change the look and feel of your home completely. Newer techniques can make your rooms more stylish and modern with the correct use of colors. The best way of giving your rooms a dramatic effect is by using decorative paint styles. Decorative painting can simply refer to creating a wallpaper look by painting designs through a stencil. Stenciling the wall with your chosen designs can give the impression of a fake wallpaper effect. Wall stencils can also be used to design other rooms such as creating cartoons for your kids' bedrooms. Other effects can also be produced on the walls by simply using a sponge instead of a normal painting brush. A sponge or even a rag can be used to dab the paint to give it a more different and textured look.
Another kind of effect which is very popular with interior decoration ideas, especially for the living room is the 'light' effect. Playing with the colors so that it gives the wall the impression of a shadow, or a shimmery effect can be done at ease by using two different shades for the coats. For a shadowy look, start painting one side of the wall with a dark shade then continue painting the rest of the wall with a shade lighter and so on. The shimmery effect can be achieved by painting the wall with a dark or bright color of your choice, preferably 3-4 coats and then giving a last coat with a golden shimmer or bronze shimmer paint. This lends luster to the wall. The latest popular trend in decorative painting for the living rooms is creating a fake effect of popularly known as faux effect. You can achieve a brick like appearance to your walls or even a marble look. More creatively, the paint can be used to produce an artificial, yet real looking leathery or suede textures that give a very sophisticated look to living rooms. Now-a-days there are kinds of paints that do not require any extra effort, but produce the effects of the textured look. These paints, although cost a bit on the higher side than the normal paints, create the basic texture look on which you can create more elaborate effects.
The only thing that one must keep in mind before going for decorative paints is the color scheme. Only painting the rooms cannot produce the desired effect, proper co-ordination and accessorizing, the right furniture, lampshades and other such things are necessary.
For more home decorating tips look at Budget Furnishing and Making A Wheel Chair Friendly Home
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Brennan
Psychological Effects of Color
Choosing a new color for your living space isn't just about making sure the walls match the furniture. Colors can have a profound effect on your moods as well as convey certain emotions. The psychological effect created by various shades is an area of study that has produced some interesting results. Here are a few points of reference for choosing a desirable psychological effect from your color choices.
Common Color Associations
Red - exciting and stimulating. Red is a warm, masculine color. It stands out in comparison to other colors, making it appear closer. It is associated with passion and vigor.
Pink - soft and sensuous. Pink is more of a feminine color, and often has a youthful feel to it.
Orange - stimulating and intense. Orange is more whimsical than red; it's still an intense and fiery color, but with more fun.
Peach - soft and warm. This is definitely a feminine color without the teenage feel to it.
Yellow - sunny and cheerful. Soft shades of yellow can create an open, spacious feel to a room. Intense yellows are great as accents, but in large amounts can be overpowering and irritating. As yellow pales, it loses its energy and requires a cool color nearby.
Green - restful and quiet. Deep greens may appear somber on their own, but place a warmer color nearby and they perk up. Pure greens have an association with plants or the outdoors. Mix pale green with yellow and it livens up, but when combined with blue, it appears quiet and meditative.
Blue - peaceful, calm and tranquil. Large amounts of pure blue can create a sense of cool and melancholy. Pale blue has a receding effect making it great for opening up those small spaces or for use on high ceilings.
Blue-green shades tend to change character with the changing light. They have a dense, atmospheric quality, but without the dramatic receding effect of pale blue.
Purple/violet - rich and mystical. Purple can appear calm yet mysterious. Deeper purples have a powerful, introspective association. Pale purple and lavender are more sensual with a feminine connotation.
White - purity, light and cleanliness. In large amounts, white can feel sterile. When used with black or gray it can appear very modern and trendy, with an absence of warmth.
Black - power and elegance. When used excessively, black can feel oppressive.
Gray - conservative and calm. Combine gray with browns to create a warm richness with the sense of quiet dignity.
Brown - earthy and secure. Associated with nature and the earth, it conveys a sense of familiarity and home.
When buying or selling in the Orange County area, see The Hartanov Team, your Orange County real estate experts. Receive valuable information on the local communities including listings for San Clemente real estate.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Drew_Hartanov
Common Color Associations
Red - exciting and stimulating. Red is a warm, masculine color. It stands out in comparison to other colors, making it appear closer. It is associated with passion and vigor.
Pink - soft and sensuous. Pink is more of a feminine color, and often has a youthful feel to it.
Orange - stimulating and intense. Orange is more whimsical than red; it's still an intense and fiery color, but with more fun.
Peach - soft and warm. This is definitely a feminine color without the teenage feel to it.
Yellow - sunny and cheerful. Soft shades of yellow can create an open, spacious feel to a room. Intense yellows are great as accents, but in large amounts can be overpowering and irritating. As yellow pales, it loses its energy and requires a cool color nearby.
Green - restful and quiet. Deep greens may appear somber on their own, but place a warmer color nearby and they perk up. Pure greens have an association with plants or the outdoors. Mix pale green with yellow and it livens up, but when combined with blue, it appears quiet and meditative.
Blue - peaceful, calm and tranquil. Large amounts of pure blue can create a sense of cool and melancholy. Pale blue has a receding effect making it great for opening up those small spaces or for use on high ceilings.
Blue-green shades tend to change character with the changing light. They have a dense, atmospheric quality, but without the dramatic receding effect of pale blue.
Purple/violet - rich and mystical. Purple can appear calm yet mysterious. Deeper purples have a powerful, introspective association. Pale purple and lavender are more sensual with a feminine connotation.
White - purity, light and cleanliness. In large amounts, white can feel sterile. When used with black or gray it can appear very modern and trendy, with an absence of warmth.
Black - power and elegance. When used excessively, black can feel oppressive.
Gray - conservative and calm. Combine gray with browns to create a warm richness with the sense of quiet dignity.
Brown - earthy and secure. Associated with nature and the earth, it conveys a sense of familiarity and home.
When buying or selling in the Orange County area, see The Hartanov Team, your Orange County real estate experts. Receive valuable information on the local communities including listings for San Clemente real estate.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Drew_Hartanov
Why Rubber Flooring is the Ideal Flooring Choice for Your Home
There's a vast array of flooring choices to choose from on the market. The most obvious ones are probably wood, laminate, carpeting and vinyl. However rubber is probably quite far down on the list of common flooring types for the home.
Environmental Benefits
People are becoming more eco-aware and are actively seeking out products which are made from recycled and eco-friendly products. This trend is growing strong in the area of home improvements. Rubber flooring is a great choice because it can be made from recycled rubber; often from discarded car tires.
However you should be aware that not all rubber flooring being sold is recycled. So always check before making your purchase.
Other Benefits of Rubber Flooring
Durable - Ideal for high traffic areas as it is very strong and withstands much wear and tear. It's ideal for front entrances, bathrooms and kitchens.
Shock Absorber - Rubber is a natural shock absorber so is easy to walk on. So if you are on your feet a lot, say in the kitchen, rubber flooring is ideal.
In the Garage - Rubber helps dampen noises and stands up well to cars, bikes, tools and kids. If you drop heavy tools on the rubber you won't damage it.
Exercise Room - As mentioned before, rubber is very durable so if you drop a weight on it there won't be any damage caused. It's also great for noise and shock-absorbing qualities so is great on the knees, legs and feet.
Family Pets - Place some rubber flooring in a pet's kennel for durability and noise insulation
Colours - If you find other flooring types dull and boring, rubber comes in a variety of colors and textures to inspire you. You're bound to find something that suits your taste.
Allergy Sufferers - Many people suffer from allergies due to the dust mites that live and breed in carpeting. Rubber, wood, stone and vinyl are all good alternatives.
Price
Rubber flooring starts at about $2 a square foot. This is a great price considering its strength and longevity.
Cleaning Rubber Flooring
When caring for any floor, the best place to start is by reading the manufacturer's instructions. These will tell you the things that can and cannot be used on the floor. If there is a warranty on the floor, you want to pay extra close attention to the care instructions. If you do something as simple as using the wrong cleaners you could unwittingly void your warranty.
Simple sweeping and vacuuming along with mild cleaners are all that you really need to maintain the flooring.
George Kerr is a keen garden and DIY enthusiast who writes for website Finer Living which has further reading on natural cork flooring, leather flooring and other home related topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Kerr
Environmental Benefits
People are becoming more eco-aware and are actively seeking out products which are made from recycled and eco-friendly products. This trend is growing strong in the area of home improvements. Rubber flooring is a great choice because it can be made from recycled rubber; often from discarded car tires.
However you should be aware that not all rubber flooring being sold is recycled. So always check before making your purchase.
Other Benefits of Rubber Flooring
Durable - Ideal for high traffic areas as it is very strong and withstands much wear and tear. It's ideal for front entrances, bathrooms and kitchens.
Shock Absorber - Rubber is a natural shock absorber so is easy to walk on. So if you are on your feet a lot, say in the kitchen, rubber flooring is ideal.
In the Garage - Rubber helps dampen noises and stands up well to cars, bikes, tools and kids. If you drop heavy tools on the rubber you won't damage it.
Exercise Room - As mentioned before, rubber is very durable so if you drop a weight on it there won't be any damage caused. It's also great for noise and shock-absorbing qualities so is great on the knees, legs and feet.
Family Pets - Place some rubber flooring in a pet's kennel for durability and noise insulation
Colours - If you find other flooring types dull and boring, rubber comes in a variety of colors and textures to inspire you. You're bound to find something that suits your taste.
Allergy Sufferers - Many people suffer from allergies due to the dust mites that live and breed in carpeting. Rubber, wood, stone and vinyl are all good alternatives.
Price
Rubber flooring starts at about $2 a square foot. This is a great price considering its strength and longevity.
Cleaning Rubber Flooring
When caring for any floor, the best place to start is by reading the manufacturer's instructions. These will tell you the things that can and cannot be used on the floor. If there is a warranty on the floor, you want to pay extra close attention to the care instructions. If you do something as simple as using the wrong cleaners you could unwittingly void your warranty.
Simple sweeping and vacuuming along with mild cleaners are all that you really need to maintain the flooring.
George Kerr is a keen garden and DIY enthusiast who writes for website Finer Living which has further reading on natural cork flooring, leather flooring and other home related topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Kerr
How To Install Wood Flooring - Floating Floors
If you're interested in learning how to install wood flooring in your new or existing home, the good news is that there is a special type of hardwood floor that is very easy to install. It's called a "floating hardwood floor", and it works just like it sounds - it "floats" over the top of a substrate with no gluing or nailing required to adhere it. Even better, floating hardwood floors can be installed over the top of an existing hardwood floor, meaning that there is no need to do demolition.
Before you begin to install wood flooring, you will need to make sure your subfloor or substrate is completely clean and level. A joint compound that is self-leveling can be used to remedy any leveling problems. You will also need to decide what direction you would like the planks of your hardwood floor to lay.
When installing hardwood floors using floating flooring, a tongue and groove construction is used to "lock" the planks together. However, you will also need a special flooring glue to apply between the planks in order to create permanent adherence. Don't use too much glue, and try to wipe away any excess.
The first three rows of planks are the most important, and it is these rows that can often become skewed or not fit together tightly when you are learning how to install wood flooring, therefore creating problems with the rest of the rows of flooring. You will want to use clamps or straps to make these first three rows fit together tightly until the glue dries.
Around the walls, you will want to leave a little bit of a gap in your floor during the floor installation. This is because the floor needs to be able to expand and contract from summer to winter. The instructions you receive with your floor will tell you how much room to leave. The molding on your walls will end up covering this space, so it won't be visible.
After the planks are laid and glued, the floor will need to set for a while (consult instructions to find out how long you will need to leave it.) Then, you will need to sand the floor and use a finish to completely seal it. Many people prefer to hire a specialist to perform this step.
Visit us for more information on installing hardwood flooring, refinishing wood floors and hardwood floor.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_W_Smith
Before you begin to install wood flooring, you will need to make sure your subfloor or substrate is completely clean and level. A joint compound that is self-leveling can be used to remedy any leveling problems. You will also need to decide what direction you would like the planks of your hardwood floor to lay.
When installing hardwood floors using floating flooring, a tongue and groove construction is used to "lock" the planks together. However, you will also need a special flooring glue to apply between the planks in order to create permanent adherence. Don't use too much glue, and try to wipe away any excess.
The first three rows of planks are the most important, and it is these rows that can often become skewed or not fit together tightly when you are learning how to install wood flooring, therefore creating problems with the rest of the rows of flooring. You will want to use clamps or straps to make these first three rows fit together tightly until the glue dries.
Around the walls, you will want to leave a little bit of a gap in your floor during the floor installation. This is because the floor needs to be able to expand and contract from summer to winter. The instructions you receive with your floor will tell you how much room to leave. The molding on your walls will end up covering this space, so it won't be visible.
After the planks are laid and glued, the floor will need to set for a while (consult instructions to find out how long you will need to leave it.) Then, you will need to sand the floor and use a finish to completely seal it. Many people prefer to hire a specialist to perform this step.
Visit us for more information on installing hardwood flooring, refinishing wood floors and hardwood floor.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_W_Smith
How to Save Power and Lower Your Electric Bill
As energy costs continue to soar, many of us are looking for ways to lower electric bills. Also, as more and more of us are becoming conscious of the environment, we would like to find ways to save power simply to reduce damage power consumption does to the environment. The good news is that there are many ways to reduce electric bills and save power.
First, consider the obvious ways to lower electric bill totals in your home. For instance, if you are not in a room, turn off the light. Turning off a light in your home will save hundreds of watts of power consumption each day. Also, eliminate any lights that are not really needed in your home.
Another way to reduce electric bill amounts for your household is to raise the temperature on your thermostat when the air conditioner is running. In the winter, lower the temperature if your heat is electric. This will cause the air conditioner and furnace to run less often, thus saving you money on your electric bill. Statistics show that every degree you change the temperature will create up to a 3% change in energy costs. A couple of degrees will not likely change how comfortable you feel in your home, but they will make a big difference in your attempt to save power.
Now, there are also some helpful devices you can use to save power in your home. First, replace your incandescent light bulbs with the compact fluorescent bulbs you have been seeing. Yes, these bulbs cost a lot more than their incandescent counterparts, but they also last much, much longer. In fact, they last around 10 to 13 times longer than regular light bulbs. Additionally, they use around 1/3 as much electricity as regular bulbs. They will easily pay for themselves over a year as you notice that they reduce electric bill totals each month that you use them.
Another device you can install in your home to save power is the Power Save 1200. The Power Save 1200 will lower electric bill amounts by reducing the amount of power that is wasted by some of the appliances in your home. Many appliances, such as air conditioners, freezers, washer, vacuums, and fans, use inductive motors. These motors ask for electricity from the transformer every time they need to run. This process creates heat in the motors and the wiring. This heat is actually wasted energy, because it is created by electricity. The Power Save 1200 will store electricity in the home and release it to these motors when they are ready to run. This eliminates the heat in the motors and the wires, which can reduce electric bill totals as much as 25%.
Another device to use to save power is an electronic thermostat. How many times have you left home, only to remember that you forgot to turn the thermostat down or up, depending on the season? An electronic thermostat can be preprogrammed to change the temperature after you have left for work, and then change it again just before you come home. Also, it can lower or raise the temperature after you have gone to sleep at night, and then change it back around the time you need to wake up. This will save you substantial amounts of power by not wasting energy on heating or cooling your home when you do not need it to be heated or cooled.
While we are all facing higher electric bills than ever before, being proactive and taking these steps to save power can help. You can reduce electric bill amounts by utilizing a little common sense and a few new pieces of technology. The ability to save money and power is there, but it's up to you to do something about it in your home.
Ken Potter is the founder and owner of http://www.USaveOnElectric.com, where you can buy the Power Save 1200, which can lower electric bills up to 25%. This site also carries the Power Save 3200 and Power Save 3400 Units for Commercial use.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Potter
First, consider the obvious ways to lower electric bill totals in your home. For instance, if you are not in a room, turn off the light. Turning off a light in your home will save hundreds of watts of power consumption each day. Also, eliminate any lights that are not really needed in your home.
Another way to reduce electric bill amounts for your household is to raise the temperature on your thermostat when the air conditioner is running. In the winter, lower the temperature if your heat is electric. This will cause the air conditioner and furnace to run less often, thus saving you money on your electric bill. Statistics show that every degree you change the temperature will create up to a 3% change in energy costs. A couple of degrees will not likely change how comfortable you feel in your home, but they will make a big difference in your attempt to save power.
Now, there are also some helpful devices you can use to save power in your home. First, replace your incandescent light bulbs with the compact fluorescent bulbs you have been seeing. Yes, these bulbs cost a lot more than their incandescent counterparts, but they also last much, much longer. In fact, they last around 10 to 13 times longer than regular light bulbs. Additionally, they use around 1/3 as much electricity as regular bulbs. They will easily pay for themselves over a year as you notice that they reduce electric bill totals each month that you use them.
Another device you can install in your home to save power is the Power Save 1200. The Power Save 1200 will lower electric bill amounts by reducing the amount of power that is wasted by some of the appliances in your home. Many appliances, such as air conditioners, freezers, washer, vacuums, and fans, use inductive motors. These motors ask for electricity from the transformer every time they need to run. This process creates heat in the motors and the wiring. This heat is actually wasted energy, because it is created by electricity. The Power Save 1200 will store electricity in the home and release it to these motors when they are ready to run. This eliminates the heat in the motors and the wires, which can reduce electric bill totals as much as 25%.
Another device to use to save power is an electronic thermostat. How many times have you left home, only to remember that you forgot to turn the thermostat down or up, depending on the season? An electronic thermostat can be preprogrammed to change the temperature after you have left for work, and then change it again just before you come home. Also, it can lower or raise the temperature after you have gone to sleep at night, and then change it back around the time you need to wake up. This will save you substantial amounts of power by not wasting energy on heating or cooling your home when you do not need it to be heated or cooled.
While we are all facing higher electric bills than ever before, being proactive and taking these steps to save power can help. You can reduce electric bill amounts by utilizing a little common sense and a few new pieces of technology. The ability to save money and power is there, but it's up to you to do something about it in your home.
Ken Potter is the founder and owner of http://www.USaveOnElectric.com, where you can buy the Power Save 1200, which can lower electric bills up to 25%. This site also carries the Power Save 3200 and Power Save 3400 Units for Commercial use.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Potter
Save Your Life - Have Your Home Wiring Inspected!
Okay, let's just admit it. When men are trusted to police their own actions, we tend to stray toward more power. By power, I mean status, money, influence, authority, and so on...
Below is an article about electrical contractors performing self-inspections, in order to expedite the re-construction and restoration process in a post-Katrina New Orleans. One doesn't have to research very deeply to find mounds of evidence that when not held accountable, people will try to slip by the system; the very safeguards put into place to protect lives.
Would you throw your infant into the swimming pool without a lifejacket, knowing she doesn't posess the skill to swim? Why then, would anyone circumvent an inspection process that is designed to be a quality control measure to preserve our lives and our property?
Hurricane Katrina was a devastating tragedy, with loss of lives, misplaced families, and slow emergency response times. Have we not learned a valuable lesson?
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/nws_ind_nws_cods_regs/article/0,2624,HPRO_26520_5053914,00.html
For too long the homeowner has had to risk dealing with contractors who are suspect, workmanship that is marginal, and a system that hasn't yet been able to weed out the shoddy providers. As the Operations Manager of a firm that specializes in providing electrical solutions for the homeowner, and a Master Electrician, I can't imagine pocketing the hard earned money of a trusting client who looks to me for expert advice, and depends on me to make their family safe. I couldn't look at the man in the mirror at the end of the day.
I'm not insensitive to those who are homeless and waiting to return to normal life (as normal as can be achieved). Abraham Lincoln said,
"You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today".
So...can we offer incentive packages to get more inspectors into the city? They have a skill, and provide a service we desperately need in New Orleans. Require the inspectors to sign an affidavit stating the work is done to standards. Just an idea. Nothing wrong with getting well compensated for providing a service in dire need. Third party accountability improves performance. Self-inspections are not the right solution here. Someone has to look out for the homeowner.
Where do you think this one comes from, "Unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required." As professional electricians, we have a responsibility to those we serve. As Master Electricians, and business owners we need to demonstrate an even a higher level of excellence and leadership.
As homeowners; don't try to do your own electrical work under the radar. If you're required to permit the project, do it...it may keep you from becoming a statistic on the evening news. This system is in place to protect you.
Dave Smith is a Licensed Master Electrician. He is Owner of Banner Electric, LLC, A home wiring professional services company in the Kansas City area. Dave is educated and experienced in industrial electrical distribution systems, and all facets of commercial and residential electrical wiring and installation, lighting and low voltage systems.
His company performs all types of residential wiring including new construction, room additions and remodels, rewiring of fire damaged homes, emergency back-up generator panels, and literally thousands of ceiling fan, light fixture, receptacle and switch installations.
Dave enjoys teaching kids and adults about electrical safety in the home. He also empowers the Do-it-Yourselfer through his coaching programs.
To learn more about our helpful resources, go to: http://www.bannerelectric.com/products/liveWireCoaching.html
In the KC area, see what our clients are saying about us: http://www.bannerelectric.com/testimonials.html
Let us know if we can provide a custom solution for your project.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_B_Smith
Below is an article about electrical contractors performing self-inspections, in order to expedite the re-construction and restoration process in a post-Katrina New Orleans. One doesn't have to research very deeply to find mounds of evidence that when not held accountable, people will try to slip by the system; the very safeguards put into place to protect lives.
Would you throw your infant into the swimming pool without a lifejacket, knowing she doesn't posess the skill to swim? Why then, would anyone circumvent an inspection process that is designed to be a quality control measure to preserve our lives and our property?
Hurricane Katrina was a devastating tragedy, with loss of lives, misplaced families, and slow emergency response times. Have we not learned a valuable lesson?
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/nws_ind_nws_cods_regs/article/0,2624,HPRO_26520_5053914,00.html
For too long the homeowner has had to risk dealing with contractors who are suspect, workmanship that is marginal, and a system that hasn't yet been able to weed out the shoddy providers. As the Operations Manager of a firm that specializes in providing electrical solutions for the homeowner, and a Master Electrician, I can't imagine pocketing the hard earned money of a trusting client who looks to me for expert advice, and depends on me to make their family safe. I couldn't look at the man in the mirror at the end of the day.
I'm not insensitive to those who are homeless and waiting to return to normal life (as normal as can be achieved). Abraham Lincoln said,
"You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today".
So...can we offer incentive packages to get more inspectors into the city? They have a skill, and provide a service we desperately need in New Orleans. Require the inspectors to sign an affidavit stating the work is done to standards. Just an idea. Nothing wrong with getting well compensated for providing a service in dire need. Third party accountability improves performance. Self-inspections are not the right solution here. Someone has to look out for the homeowner.
Where do you think this one comes from, "Unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required." As professional electricians, we have a responsibility to those we serve. As Master Electricians, and business owners we need to demonstrate an even a higher level of excellence and leadership.
As homeowners; don't try to do your own electrical work under the radar. If you're required to permit the project, do it...it may keep you from becoming a statistic on the evening news. This system is in place to protect you.
Dave Smith is a Licensed Master Electrician. He is Owner of Banner Electric, LLC, A home wiring professional services company in the Kansas City area. Dave is educated and experienced in industrial electrical distribution systems, and all facets of commercial and residential electrical wiring and installation, lighting and low voltage systems.
His company performs all types of residential wiring including new construction, room additions and remodels, rewiring of fire damaged homes, emergency back-up generator panels, and literally thousands of ceiling fan, light fixture, receptacle and switch installations.
Dave enjoys teaching kids and adults about electrical safety in the home. He also empowers the Do-it-Yourselfer through his coaching programs.
To learn more about our helpful resources, go to: http://www.bannerelectric.com/products/liveWireCoaching.html
In the KC area, see what our clients are saying about us: http://www.bannerelectric.com/testimonials.html
Let us know if we can provide a custom solution for your project.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_B_Smith
The 7 Point Checklist And 3 Step Guide To A Favorable Contractor Experience
Banner Electric wants your project to be completed successfully. We respect your home, and hope your electrical solutions bring you comfort, value, and enjoyment for years to come. We put this checklist / guide sheet together for you to use, free of charge, as you search for a reputable and trustworthy Electrical Contractor (even if you don't choose us), so you can take necessary steps to protect yourself as a consumer.
Is the contractor a member of the Better Business Bureau?
Is their work guaranteed?
Do they carry Liability Insurance?
Are they Licensed Electrical Contractors?
Do they carry Worker's Compensation Insurance?
How many years have they been in business? ________
Will they offer references from existing clients?
1. Considerations Regarding the Contract
Look for a detailed (itemized) quotation.
Make sure there are no hidden up-charges.
Ask how they handle charges for project changes, and unforeseen challenges?
Discuss with them the timeline and payment schedule, and get it in writing.
Beware of large up front charges. 30% would not be unusual for material costs, 50% should be maximum.
2. Compare Apples to Apples
Don't show quotations to competitors. Let each company construct their own quote based on the needs you've communicated to them. Then compare the scope of your project on each of the proposals.
3. Evaluate the time spent with you by their company representative on the initial consultation...
...answering your questions.
...addressing your specific needs.
...clearly explaining the project to be undertaken.
If you perform this checklist when considering an electrical contractor for hire, you will eliminate many of the pitfalls that homeowners experience when entering into contract with their professional. Your initial consultation will either leave you feeling comfortable or uneasy. Ultimately, you have to trust your intuition, but you can take comfort knowing that you covered the bases with respect to credentials, background, company history and experience.
Dave Smith is a Licensed Master Electrician. He is Owner of Banner Electric, LLC, A home wiring professional services company in the Kansas City area. Dave is educated and experienced in industrial electrical distribution systems, and all facets of commercial and residential electrical wiring and installation, lighting and low voltage systems.
His company performs all types of residential wiring including new construction, room additions and remodels, rewiring of fire damaged homes, emergency back-up generator panels, and literally thousands of ceiling fan, light fixture, receptacle and switch installations.
Dave enjoys teaching kids and adults about electrical safety in the home. He also empowers the Do-it-Yourselfer through his coaching programs. To learn more about our helpful resources, go to:
http://www.bannerelectric.com/products/liveWireCoaching.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_B_Smith
Is the contractor a member of the Better Business Bureau?
Is their work guaranteed?
Do they carry Liability Insurance?
Are they Licensed Electrical Contractors?
Do they carry Worker's Compensation Insurance?
How many years have they been in business? ________
Will they offer references from existing clients?
1. Considerations Regarding the Contract
Look for a detailed (itemized) quotation.
Make sure there are no hidden up-charges.
Ask how they handle charges for project changes, and unforeseen challenges?
Discuss with them the timeline and payment schedule, and get it in writing.
Beware of large up front charges. 30% would not be unusual for material costs, 50% should be maximum.
2. Compare Apples to Apples
Don't show quotations to competitors. Let each company construct their own quote based on the needs you've communicated to them. Then compare the scope of your project on each of the proposals.
3. Evaluate the time spent with you by their company representative on the initial consultation...
...answering your questions.
...addressing your specific needs.
...clearly explaining the project to be undertaken.
If you perform this checklist when considering an electrical contractor for hire, you will eliminate many of the pitfalls that homeowners experience when entering into contract with their professional. Your initial consultation will either leave you feeling comfortable or uneasy. Ultimately, you have to trust your intuition, but you can take comfort knowing that you covered the bases with respect to credentials, background, company history and experience.
Dave Smith is a Licensed Master Electrician. He is Owner of Banner Electric, LLC, A home wiring professional services company in the Kansas City area. Dave is educated and experienced in industrial electrical distribution systems, and all facets of commercial and residential electrical wiring and installation, lighting and low voltage systems.
His company performs all types of residential wiring including new construction, room additions and remodels, rewiring of fire damaged homes, emergency back-up generator panels, and literally thousands of ceiling fan, light fixture, receptacle and switch installations.
Dave enjoys teaching kids and adults about electrical safety in the home. He also empowers the Do-it-Yourselfer through his coaching programs. To learn more about our helpful resources, go to:
http://www.bannerelectric.com/products/liveWireCoaching.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_B_Smith
Bathroom Tile Ideas That Will Spark Your Imagination
Bathrooms today are not limited in their tile choices to plain white, square, glazed ceramic tiles as they used to be. Today, there are literally thousands of different styles and sizes of bathroom tile ideas and choices. Ceramic is not the only material, either. Tiles are now readily available in travertine, sandstone, or marble just to name a few.
Tiles also come in a variety of sizes, which when pieced together can create quite a unique look. You can choose to tile the entire wall from floor to ceiling with both the same color and type of tile. Another option is to mix it up and have one color of tile on the bottom of the wall and another color towards the top separated by narrow, textured tile pieces that act as a chair rail.
Not only are there are thousands of different types of tiles, but there are dozens of colors of tile grout. This added versatility means that you could use the same tile on the floor as on the walls, but by changing the color of the grout, you can achieve two completely different effects.
Try to be unique when choosing the color and style of your tile, but remember that if you plan on selling your home in the next few years, you will want to create a room that is universally appealing. Since tile work is considered a more permanent décor, prospective homebuyers may be overwhelmed with the idea of having to replace an entire bathroom's tile work if you have chosen tiles in your favorite colors of pink and purple.
Another area that you can add some tile work to is the countertop. By adding tile here as well as the walls and floor, you can achieve a room that looks elegant and well put together. Choose tile in complementary colors, but vary the textures and the sizes of the tiles to please the eye and to add different layers.
Tiles make a wonderful choice for bathrooms because they are easily cleaned and sanitized and they are very hard to scratch or chip. If the proper cleaning products are used on them, they will remain shiny and new looking for decades. Try to choose colors and styles of tile that will serve as a great background and tiles that will allow you to change your bathroom décor without having to replace the tile. Don't be afraid of creating patterns or designs with contrasting colors or even tiles that are subtly different.
Every bathroom is different and will have different tile laying challenges. You can get thousands of bathroom tile ideas from searching through pictures on the Internet or from the countless home improvement books and magazines that are offered. You are sure to be able to find a look that will fit perfectly into your bathroom's décor.
For more inspiration and ideas for remodeling your bathroom try visiting http://remodelingabathroomguide.com, a popular bathroom remodeling website that includes tips on selecting the best remodeling contractor for your bathroom remodeling job.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Willhelm_Williams
Tiles also come in a variety of sizes, which when pieced together can create quite a unique look. You can choose to tile the entire wall from floor to ceiling with both the same color and type of tile. Another option is to mix it up and have one color of tile on the bottom of the wall and another color towards the top separated by narrow, textured tile pieces that act as a chair rail.
Not only are there are thousands of different types of tiles, but there are dozens of colors of tile grout. This added versatility means that you could use the same tile on the floor as on the walls, but by changing the color of the grout, you can achieve two completely different effects.
Try to be unique when choosing the color and style of your tile, but remember that if you plan on selling your home in the next few years, you will want to create a room that is universally appealing. Since tile work is considered a more permanent décor, prospective homebuyers may be overwhelmed with the idea of having to replace an entire bathroom's tile work if you have chosen tiles in your favorite colors of pink and purple.
Another area that you can add some tile work to is the countertop. By adding tile here as well as the walls and floor, you can achieve a room that looks elegant and well put together. Choose tile in complementary colors, but vary the textures and the sizes of the tiles to please the eye and to add different layers.
Tiles make a wonderful choice for bathrooms because they are easily cleaned and sanitized and they are very hard to scratch or chip. If the proper cleaning products are used on them, they will remain shiny and new looking for decades. Try to choose colors and styles of tile that will serve as a great background and tiles that will allow you to change your bathroom décor without having to replace the tile. Don't be afraid of creating patterns or designs with contrasting colors or even tiles that are subtly different.
Every bathroom is different and will have different tile laying challenges. You can get thousands of bathroom tile ideas from searching through pictures on the Internet or from the countless home improvement books and magazines that are offered. You are sure to be able to find a look that will fit perfectly into your bathroom's décor.
For more inspiration and ideas for remodeling your bathroom try visiting http://remodelingabathroomguide.com, a popular bathroom remodeling website that includes tips on selecting the best remodeling contractor for your bathroom remodeling job.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Willhelm_Williams
5 Small Bathroom Vanity Remodeling Tips
When your bathroom decorating project involves a limited space to work in, replacing an old vanity with a small bathroom vanity can help you free up space while you are working. There are several small vanities available to choose from, but you need to keep several things in mind when you are remodeling. Here are some tips to use when remodeling a small bathroom.
Tip #1 - Utilize the storage space in your vanity.
Often we forget to do the obvious. If your bathroom is small you will want to utilize the space you have. A small bathroom vanity that includes a cabinet under the sink can be used as storage for small items. Using this space for soap, bathroom tissue, cleansers, lotions, and even fresh towels is a great way to utilize the space.
Tip # 2 - Use Mirrors.
If you have a large mirror in your bathroom you will find that it makes the room appear larger. If you have a small mirror above the vanity exchange it for a larger mirror to give the room a more open, larger appearance.
Tip # 3 - Choose a small bathroom vanity that fits in the corner.
If you choose a corner vanity you can free up more space in your room. This space isn't an optical illusion as with the mirror, this is actual floor space. There are several styles available that you can choose from.
Tip # 4 - Use light colored paints for your bathroom walls.
Using light colored paint or wallpaper on the walls will help to open out the room and make it a bit bigger. The light paint also helps to give the room a brighter, happier look. Your small vanity should match your bathroom. You can purchase one that already matches or take the time to paint the vanity as well as the walls to match each other.
Tip # 5 - Pedestal type vanities take less space.
If you are still trying to use less space, and you aren't set on having the cabinet under your sink, then you can use a pedestal type small bathroom vanity. This type of vanity doesn't have storage space but it does open the floor space up quite a bit.
Making the most of the space in a small bathroom is important. You don't have to have a difficult time remodeling, even if you have limited space to work with. If you measure your vanity and make sure if will fit before you get too far ahead of yourself you should be able to remodel your small bathroom, and vanities are an excellent place to start when you are redecorating.
Visit us for more information on Japanese bath tubs, Premier bathtubs and Premier bath tubs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_W_Smith
Tip #1 - Utilize the storage space in your vanity.
Often we forget to do the obvious. If your bathroom is small you will want to utilize the space you have. A small bathroom vanity that includes a cabinet under the sink can be used as storage for small items. Using this space for soap, bathroom tissue, cleansers, lotions, and even fresh towels is a great way to utilize the space.
Tip # 2 - Use Mirrors.
If you have a large mirror in your bathroom you will find that it makes the room appear larger. If you have a small mirror above the vanity exchange it for a larger mirror to give the room a more open, larger appearance.
Tip # 3 - Choose a small bathroom vanity that fits in the corner.
If you choose a corner vanity you can free up more space in your room. This space isn't an optical illusion as with the mirror, this is actual floor space. There are several styles available that you can choose from.
Tip # 4 - Use light colored paints for your bathroom walls.
Using light colored paint or wallpaper on the walls will help to open out the room and make it a bit bigger. The light paint also helps to give the room a brighter, happier look. Your small vanity should match your bathroom. You can purchase one that already matches or take the time to paint the vanity as well as the walls to match each other.
Tip # 5 - Pedestal type vanities take less space.
If you are still trying to use less space, and you aren't set on having the cabinet under your sink, then you can use a pedestal type small bathroom vanity. This type of vanity doesn't have storage space but it does open the floor space up quite a bit.
Making the most of the space in a small bathroom is important. You don't have to have a difficult time remodeling, even if you have limited space to work with. If you measure your vanity and make sure if will fit before you get too far ahead of yourself you should be able to remodel your small bathroom, and vanities are an excellent place to start when you are redecorating.
Visit us for more information on Japanese bath tubs, Premier bathtubs and Premier bath tubs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_W_Smith
Making Improvements to Your Bathroom
Although the bathroom is probably the smallest room in your home, the room probably is scrutinized the most. This may be because it's so small and when people are in this room, they are usually "looking around". Many women like to make have bathroom improvement ideas that they like to implement at least every three years. These improvement ideas may be a total renovations with blueprint plans or simply a new medicine cabinet or vanity. This is the second-most used room in your home, but sometimes all it needs is a new throw rug or matching towels to give it an entire new look.
While more time is spent in the kitchen, the bathroom is frequented many times in a day by many people. You will want the room to look cheerful, friendly, and clean. Many online sites have professionals willing to give advice on how to make your bathroom family friendly. This may include a hamper for everyone or his and her sinks or individual personalized trays in the drawers.
The one thing that every family feels there is not enough of is space, especially for storage. If you're renovating or remodeling your bathroom, this is the perfect time to make those little additions or changes you've always talked about. There is usually something behind every wall, but in some cases, it may just be unused space or a closet from a bedroom that's located on the other side of the wall. If and extra bedroom is on the other side and you can spare some space from the closet, you can use the space to have a built-in shelves in your bathroom. These shelves can be used for extra towels or miscellaneous personal hygiene items.
The bathroom is a room that is used by everyone in the family, so don't be afraid to get everyone's input when remodeling or renovating. Keep cleaning in mind as you make your plans. Be sure to get flooring and walls that are easy to keep clean. While tiles look great for floors, they are sometimes more difficult to clean then linoleum.
Another thing to keep in mind is electrical outlets. While you may not think you use a lot of electricity in the bathroom, keep in mind blow dryers, curling irons and electric shavers. Make sure your circuit breakers are large enough to carry the load as well. While you're thinking of electricity, give lighting some real consideration. Remodeling your bathroom gives you the chance to put in some stylish new light fixtures that not only look great, but also provide a lot of light. You'll be glad you did when you're shaving or putting on makeup.
Focusing on the topic of how to use a compressor, the author publishes primarily for http://www.insidewoodworking.com . You might see his comments on finding a good air compressor over at http://www.insidewoodworking.com/compressors/index.html and different sources for finding a good air compressor tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leroy_C._Calstard
While more time is spent in the kitchen, the bathroom is frequented many times in a day by many people. You will want the room to look cheerful, friendly, and clean. Many online sites have professionals willing to give advice on how to make your bathroom family friendly. This may include a hamper for everyone or his and her sinks or individual personalized trays in the drawers.
The one thing that every family feels there is not enough of is space, especially for storage. If you're renovating or remodeling your bathroom, this is the perfect time to make those little additions or changes you've always talked about. There is usually something behind every wall, but in some cases, it may just be unused space or a closet from a bedroom that's located on the other side of the wall. If and extra bedroom is on the other side and you can spare some space from the closet, you can use the space to have a built-in shelves in your bathroom. These shelves can be used for extra towels or miscellaneous personal hygiene items.
The bathroom is a room that is used by everyone in the family, so don't be afraid to get everyone's input when remodeling or renovating. Keep cleaning in mind as you make your plans. Be sure to get flooring and walls that are easy to keep clean. While tiles look great for floors, they are sometimes more difficult to clean then linoleum.
Another thing to keep in mind is electrical outlets. While you may not think you use a lot of electricity in the bathroom, keep in mind blow dryers, curling irons and electric shavers. Make sure your circuit breakers are large enough to carry the load as well. While you're thinking of electricity, give lighting some real consideration. Remodeling your bathroom gives you the chance to put in some stylish new light fixtures that not only look great, but also provide a lot of light. You'll be glad you did when you're shaving or putting on makeup.
Focusing on the topic of how to use a compressor, the author publishes primarily for http://www.insidewoodworking.com . You might see his comments on finding a good air compressor over at http://www.insidewoodworking.com/compressors/index.html and different sources for finding a good air compressor tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leroy_C._Calstard
Creating A Luxurious Bathroom Starts With The Bathroom Vanity And Cabinet
If you have been to Lowes or Home Depot lately you will see a larger selection of unique bathroom vanities. Most of these vanities are way over priced. These bathroom vanities look very appealing and it provides for an impulse buy, but if you shop around a little you will find these same vanities at a much better price.
A quick example; we found a "42 inch Euro Vanity online at an RTA kitchen cabinet and bathroom vanity website for around $290 dollars. That same vanity at the Home Depot web site was almost $600 dollars. We also found out that the Home Depot's vanity was made of particle board, while the RTA site uses real wood in their bathroom vanity construction.
If you are looking for a very best in bathroom vanities, or even what they would call bathroom furniture, the internet has the stores beat hands down. The websites provided bathroom vanities that were hand painted, they used imported wood, and they were of solid construction. Many of them even come with the vanity tops, hardware, and matching mirrors included. These vanities would be a great addition to any bathroom that wants to stand out from the average.
Most of the cabinets or vanities that you buy these days are labeled RTA. This simple phrase stands for ready to assemble. If you're buying retail you will see assembled cabinets and cabinets in boxes. It's basically the same thing. A building supply super store might assemble some of the vanities or cabinets and charge you an even higher price; they also sell RTA cabinets and market these products to the do it your self people. Either way it is the same cabinet, we just found out that it is easy and cost effect to assemble the cabinets ourselves. Some of the real nice bathroom vanities come assembled and are shipped directly to you, but others can easily be put together with a flat head screw drive. All of the RTA bathroom vanities and kitchen cabinets come with one simple page of instructions.
The shipping is an additional cost, but when you factor in the savings you get from buying online, you still come out far ahead of buying at a retail store. This is because most of the bathroom vanity websites, and the kitchen cabinet websites, are importing and warehousing the items. They have no need for a store and the high costs associated with having a retail location, so they can provide the same items at a fraction of the cost. Another nice feature is that they deliver to your door. No fighting through traffic, waiting in store lines, and you are saving gas money at the same time.
So after we got past that, we went online and found a wonderful bathroom vanity website. We also found that the better websites will have a large selection of kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities. This usually is a sign of a decent online store. But, make sure you go to a few different websites, you will see a vast difference in pricing and be careful, some sites might state "free shipping" but they will make that cost up in higher prices. In the end we found a good site and it provided us with the high end style bathroom vanity we were looking for and it also gave us some great ideas for other projects around the house.
I have been remodeling houses for over 15 years, and I have found a way to save hundreds on each bathroom that I remodel. If you are looking for a High End Bathroom Vanity , Euro Vanity, or RTA Bathroom Vanity check out one of these links to find out my secret.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Nealon
A quick example; we found a "42 inch Euro Vanity online at an RTA kitchen cabinet and bathroom vanity website for around $290 dollars. That same vanity at the Home Depot web site was almost $600 dollars. We also found out that the Home Depot's vanity was made of particle board, while the RTA site uses real wood in their bathroom vanity construction.
If you are looking for a very best in bathroom vanities, or even what they would call bathroom furniture, the internet has the stores beat hands down. The websites provided bathroom vanities that were hand painted, they used imported wood, and they were of solid construction. Many of them even come with the vanity tops, hardware, and matching mirrors included. These vanities would be a great addition to any bathroom that wants to stand out from the average.
Most of the cabinets or vanities that you buy these days are labeled RTA. This simple phrase stands for ready to assemble. If you're buying retail you will see assembled cabinets and cabinets in boxes. It's basically the same thing. A building supply super store might assemble some of the vanities or cabinets and charge you an even higher price; they also sell RTA cabinets and market these products to the do it your self people. Either way it is the same cabinet, we just found out that it is easy and cost effect to assemble the cabinets ourselves. Some of the real nice bathroom vanities come assembled and are shipped directly to you, but others can easily be put together with a flat head screw drive. All of the RTA bathroom vanities and kitchen cabinets come with one simple page of instructions.
The shipping is an additional cost, but when you factor in the savings you get from buying online, you still come out far ahead of buying at a retail store. This is because most of the bathroom vanity websites, and the kitchen cabinet websites, are importing and warehousing the items. They have no need for a store and the high costs associated with having a retail location, so they can provide the same items at a fraction of the cost. Another nice feature is that they deliver to your door. No fighting through traffic, waiting in store lines, and you are saving gas money at the same time.
So after we got past that, we went online and found a wonderful bathroom vanity website. We also found that the better websites will have a large selection of kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities. This usually is a sign of a decent online store. But, make sure you go to a few different websites, you will see a vast difference in pricing and be careful, some sites might state "free shipping" but they will make that cost up in higher prices. In the end we found a good site and it provided us with the high end style bathroom vanity we were looking for and it also gave us some great ideas for other projects around the house.
I have been remodeling houses for over 15 years, and I have found a way to save hundreds on each bathroom that I remodel. If you are looking for a High End Bathroom Vanity , Euro Vanity, or RTA Bathroom Vanity check out one of these links to find out my secret.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Nealon
Book Trailers - You Can Do It Yourself
Book trailers are one of the newest promotional tools on the book marketing scene. Like a movie trailer or TV commercial, it provides an audiovisual bite to entice an audience to your product. Once made, your booktrailer can be loaded onto YouTube, MySpace or onto your own website. Put a link to it in your blog and in your email signature. Dorothy Thompson, author and book marketing expert, says, "One thing we all must keep in mind when marketing our books is that visual sells."
To create a good book trailer, keep the trailer short (one to two minutes), somewhat dramatic, and just hint at the characters and plot so that viewers will be intrigued enough to visit your website, which will hopefully create a sale for you. Unlike with movie trailers, book readers may prefer not to be shown clear photos of a novel's characters, particularly faces, as they may enjoy envisioning the characters themselves through the written words. Other readers don't seem to mind. Some readers like to hear or see a few snippets of the actual text, although it may be difficult to find a short bit of text that is meaningful on its own; in any case, the book trailer should lead viewers to your website and the excerpts there (you DO have excerpts, don't you?). It may take a little more creativity to make an exciting book trailer for a nonfiction book; the key will be to tell the viewer why he needs the book and what makes it special without getting too detailed. With any type of book, all photos should relate to the book and should generally play for at least five seconds, long enough to register with viewers and to allow the narrator time to speak through it.
All book trailers need audio to help capture the spirit of the book. You may add music or narration, preferably both. Narration requires a calm, firm voice in an appropriate tone for the book, and it requires good timing-almost an acting skill. Many book trailers rely only on text that appears across the photos or video clips to narrate the video, but voice narration can be more powerful. You may do the narration yourself or enlist the help of a friend with a good reading voice. Use a script. Whether using text or voice narration, have music playing in the background. Remember, a book trailer is a commercial endeavor and you must generally pay royalties for music used unless you have created it yourself. Search online for sites offering royalty free music or music in the public domain. Likewise, search for free stock images or royalty-free photos, or get written permission from photographers.
MS Windows comes with a free, easy-to-use program called Windows Movie Maker. Search for it in your Programs list. Movie Maker has a nice Help function to assist you in learning the ropes. By importing still photos (at low resolution for web viewing), mp3 audio files, or video loaded from your own digital videocam, all using simple click and drag, you can create your own movie clip. Using Movie Maker's tools, you can choose from various transitions between photos and from different effects-just don't overwhelm your audience using all the effects you can. You may add text and narration, titles and credits. Be sure to include a photo of the cover of your book near the beginning and the end of your video.
Hiring a company to create a trailer for you is expensive, but generally gets you a professional-looking product. You must decide if it is worth the price. By viewing other trailers and taking notes of what you liked and what you didn't, you can create your own trailer with a little research and a little practice on Windows Movie Maker. Don't be surprised if you love the experience.
Linda E. Austin is the author of "Cherry Blossoms in Twilight: Memories of a Japanese Girl" http://www.moonbridgebooks.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_E._Austin
To create a good book trailer, keep the trailer short (one to two minutes), somewhat dramatic, and just hint at the characters and plot so that viewers will be intrigued enough to visit your website, which will hopefully create a sale for you. Unlike with movie trailers, book readers may prefer not to be shown clear photos of a novel's characters, particularly faces, as they may enjoy envisioning the characters themselves through the written words. Other readers don't seem to mind. Some readers like to hear or see a few snippets of the actual text, although it may be difficult to find a short bit of text that is meaningful on its own; in any case, the book trailer should lead viewers to your website and the excerpts there (you DO have excerpts, don't you?). It may take a little more creativity to make an exciting book trailer for a nonfiction book; the key will be to tell the viewer why he needs the book and what makes it special without getting too detailed. With any type of book, all photos should relate to the book and should generally play for at least five seconds, long enough to register with viewers and to allow the narrator time to speak through it.
All book trailers need audio to help capture the spirit of the book. You may add music or narration, preferably both. Narration requires a calm, firm voice in an appropriate tone for the book, and it requires good timing-almost an acting skill. Many book trailers rely only on text that appears across the photos or video clips to narrate the video, but voice narration can be more powerful. You may do the narration yourself or enlist the help of a friend with a good reading voice. Use a script. Whether using text or voice narration, have music playing in the background. Remember, a book trailer is a commercial endeavor and you must generally pay royalties for music used unless you have created it yourself. Search online for sites offering royalty free music or music in the public domain. Likewise, search for free stock images or royalty-free photos, or get written permission from photographers.
MS Windows comes with a free, easy-to-use program called Windows Movie Maker. Search for it in your Programs list. Movie Maker has a nice Help function to assist you in learning the ropes. By importing still photos (at low resolution for web viewing), mp3 audio files, or video loaded from your own digital videocam, all using simple click and drag, you can create your own movie clip. Using Movie Maker's tools, you can choose from various transitions between photos and from different effects-just don't overwhelm your audience using all the effects you can. You may add text and narration, titles and credits. Be sure to include a photo of the cover of your book near the beginning and the end of your video.
Hiring a company to create a trailer for you is expensive, but generally gets you a professional-looking product. You must decide if it is worth the price. By viewing other trailers and taking notes of what you liked and what you didn't, you can create your own trailer with a little research and a little practice on Windows Movie Maker. Don't be surprised if you love the experience.
Linda E. Austin is the author of "Cherry Blossoms in Twilight: Memories of a Japanese Girl" http://www.moonbridgebooks.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_E._Austin
Do Virtual Book Tours Sell Books?
There has been an interesting conversation over at Book Market Ning Social Network concerning virtual book tours. An author was interested in finding out whether virtual book tours worked well as marketing tools and whether they really sold books.
I'm sure everyone else was wondering the very same thing.
We get the same question at Pump Up Your Book Promotion. Authors are very interested in whether their promotional dollars will be spent in a good place and I can certainly understand that.
If you are like one of those authors, let me explain what I tell them. Virtual book tours are but one vehicle to sell books, but if you choose this method to publicize your book, it's money well spent as it will greatly increase your online presence, thus making it more available to people who search for your book online using your key search words.
It's not rocket science, but it is a formula you must use.
So, how does this add up to book sales?
Don't bother emailing the author because they aren't going to know exactly unless they are self-published. If they are not self-published, there are five ways they can at least take a stab at it:
1. Amazon Rankings
Amazon is the world's largest book store and goes by a ranking system. According to the people who think they have solved the mystery of how books are selling there, it operates by putting a ranking number in your book description. The lower the number, the better the book is selling.
If your book dips in rankings, it is assumed you have sold a book. If it does not climb quickly during the next few days, you can safely assume that the book is still selling. If it takes a nosedive under the 100,000 mark and continues to stay there or even dip lower, you can safely assume you are selling more than a few books. Stick around the #1 spot and you are really doing well as far as sales are concerned.
But, there's no real way in telling exactly how many books are being sold and why your rankings are what they are but you can use that guide as a good ball park guess. I've had authors tell me their books moved during the tour, but no one can safely assume it was because of the tour or any other type of promotion they may be doing at the same time. But, a ball park guess is better than no guess at all.
2. Ingrams
Of course, if your book is not distributed through Ingrams, this won't do you a bit of good, but there is a number you can call and their automated system will be able to tell you how many books were sold on a certain date. The number is 615-213-6803.
The problem with this method, though, is that not all the sales may be reported at the time of your call because it could take more time for the sale to get into the Ingram system. This is a fun thing to use and you could get quite obsessive over it, but it's also not a sure-fire way to tell just how many books were sold during your tour unless you wait for weeks afterwards and call. And, then, it's still a ballpark guess as to whether it was because of your tour or not.
3. Word of Mouth
Another surefire way of knowing if your books sold during your tour is for someone you know to tell you they bought one of your books in that time span. If your Amazon rankings have moved about this time, you can assume that this might have been why, but there's no way of knowing this to be a fact or not. And, again, word of mouth is simply word of mouth.
4. Royalty Checks
Of all the ways of telling if you have sold books that we have discussed thus far, your royalty check is your best bet. ONLY, if Amazon or any of the other online bookstores have sent their money to the publisher. I knew I sold books through Amazon (word of mouth) during one pay period, but my sales were not reported on my royalty check. Seems it takes Amazon a while to deliver.
5. Publisher
Perhaps the best method of knowing if you have sold books is to ask your publisher to keep an eye out for sales during this time. However, this method can only work if all sales were reported during this time and your publisher has an account with BookScan (www.bookscan.com).
This is perhaps the ONLY surefire way you are going to know if you sold books during a certain time frame. It is quite expensive to have an account at BookScan, but some publishers feel it's well worth the expense.
Bottom line is, the next time someone asks if virtual book tours sell books, check with your publisher to see if they have an account at BookScan, because any other way of telling is not going to tell the whole story.
Virtual book tours are just like any other promotional opportunity for the author; only, it's probably the best way to hit your audience on a global scale. Besides, virtual book tours are perpetual. Long after your tour is over, it still keeps going and going because as long as the tour host keeps your appearance in their archives, it will continue to bring in those book sales to those online consumers who use the search engines to find what they need.
Dorothy Thompson is CEO/Founder of Pump Up Your Book Promotion, an innovative public relations firm specializing in online book promotion. Sign up for their FREE newsletter at http://www.pumpupyourbookpromotion.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dorothy_Thompson
I'm sure everyone else was wondering the very same thing.
We get the same question at Pump Up Your Book Promotion. Authors are very interested in whether their promotional dollars will be spent in a good place and I can certainly understand that.
If you are like one of those authors, let me explain what I tell them. Virtual book tours are but one vehicle to sell books, but if you choose this method to publicize your book, it's money well spent as it will greatly increase your online presence, thus making it more available to people who search for your book online using your key search words.
It's not rocket science, but it is a formula you must use.
So, how does this add up to book sales?
Don't bother emailing the author because they aren't going to know exactly unless they are self-published. If they are not self-published, there are five ways they can at least take a stab at it:
1. Amazon Rankings
Amazon is the world's largest book store and goes by a ranking system. According to the people who think they have solved the mystery of how books are selling there, it operates by putting a ranking number in your book description. The lower the number, the better the book is selling.
If your book dips in rankings, it is assumed you have sold a book. If it does not climb quickly during the next few days, you can safely assume that the book is still selling. If it takes a nosedive under the 100,000 mark and continues to stay there or even dip lower, you can safely assume you are selling more than a few books. Stick around the #1 spot and you are really doing well as far as sales are concerned.
But, there's no real way in telling exactly how many books are being sold and why your rankings are what they are but you can use that guide as a good ball park guess. I've had authors tell me their books moved during the tour, but no one can safely assume it was because of the tour or any other type of promotion they may be doing at the same time. But, a ball park guess is better than no guess at all.
2. Ingrams
Of course, if your book is not distributed through Ingrams, this won't do you a bit of good, but there is a number you can call and their automated system will be able to tell you how many books were sold on a certain date. The number is 615-213-6803.
The problem with this method, though, is that not all the sales may be reported at the time of your call because it could take more time for the sale to get into the Ingram system. This is a fun thing to use and you could get quite obsessive over it, but it's also not a sure-fire way to tell just how many books were sold during your tour unless you wait for weeks afterwards and call. And, then, it's still a ballpark guess as to whether it was because of your tour or not.
3. Word of Mouth
Another surefire way of knowing if your books sold during your tour is for someone you know to tell you they bought one of your books in that time span. If your Amazon rankings have moved about this time, you can assume that this might have been why, but there's no way of knowing this to be a fact or not. And, again, word of mouth is simply word of mouth.
4. Royalty Checks
Of all the ways of telling if you have sold books that we have discussed thus far, your royalty check is your best bet. ONLY, if Amazon or any of the other online bookstores have sent their money to the publisher. I knew I sold books through Amazon (word of mouth) during one pay period, but my sales were not reported on my royalty check. Seems it takes Amazon a while to deliver.
5. Publisher
Perhaps the best method of knowing if you have sold books is to ask your publisher to keep an eye out for sales during this time. However, this method can only work if all sales were reported during this time and your publisher has an account with BookScan (www.bookscan.com).
This is perhaps the ONLY surefire way you are going to know if you sold books during a certain time frame. It is quite expensive to have an account at BookScan, but some publishers feel it's well worth the expense.
Bottom line is, the next time someone asks if virtual book tours sell books, check with your publisher to see if they have an account at BookScan, because any other way of telling is not going to tell the whole story.
Virtual book tours are just like any other promotional opportunity for the author; only, it's probably the best way to hit your audience on a global scale. Besides, virtual book tours are perpetual. Long after your tour is over, it still keeps going and going because as long as the tour host keeps your appearance in their archives, it will continue to bring in those book sales to those online consumers who use the search engines to find what they need.
Dorothy Thompson is CEO/Founder of Pump Up Your Book Promotion, an innovative public relations firm specializing in online book promotion. Sign up for their FREE newsletter at http://www.pumpupyourbookpromotion.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dorothy_Thompson
Can Selling Ebooks Make You Money?
I am working on finding out more about how all these people generate income by network marketing.
In my spare time as I begin thinking about retirement, I think that with the hundreds of millions of people buying think on the internet, ebooks could be an answer to generating income.
What I have found is there are thousands of people who are willing to sell you another eBook in PDF format to tell you how to do it. I am not impressed with most of what I have been finding. It can get costly with twenty dollars here and fifteen dollars there. It all adds up.
I have come to the conclusion that if I can find a good source of quality ebooks that I can sell that someone has already written, that is the ticket.
Now for the search for ebooks with some content rather than another how to make millions online eBooks. I want something that people will need and read who are not looking to create a business. I have found one interesting source that has been sitting on my hard drive for months. It is one of those ebooks I have downloaded in the past. I have so much on my computer that I could spend a month going through, I hope this makes someone else's task easier.
This seems to be a legitimate source of quality well written ebooks available to be downloaded and sold.
If you go to my website you can find out more. Just use the Site search feature for ebooks.
I am a Board Certified Ophthalmologist who has been in practice for 30 years. You are welcome to visit my website. If you have any problems finding what you are looking for, please use my Site Search.
http://www.eyedoctornewsletter.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edgar_Dapremont
In my spare time as I begin thinking about retirement, I think that with the hundreds of millions of people buying think on the internet, ebooks could be an answer to generating income.
What I have found is there are thousands of people who are willing to sell you another eBook in PDF format to tell you how to do it. I am not impressed with most of what I have been finding. It can get costly with twenty dollars here and fifteen dollars there. It all adds up.
I have come to the conclusion that if I can find a good source of quality ebooks that I can sell that someone has already written, that is the ticket.
Now for the search for ebooks with some content rather than another how to make millions online eBooks. I want something that people will need and read who are not looking to create a business. I have found one interesting source that has been sitting on my hard drive for months. It is one of those ebooks I have downloaded in the past. I have so much on my computer that I could spend a month going through, I hope this makes someone else's task easier.
This seems to be a legitimate source of quality well written ebooks available to be downloaded and sold.
If you go to my website you can find out more. Just use the Site search feature for ebooks.
I am a Board Certified Ophthalmologist who has been in practice for 30 years. You are welcome to visit my website. If you have any problems finding what you are looking for, please use my Site Search.
http://www.eyedoctornewsletter.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edgar_Dapremont
50 Stratgies to Market Your Books
It is no secret that a successful book is five percent writing, and 95% promotion! You could even compare creating a best-selling book to running a marathon, with each year of your life promoting your book, representing one mile run towards your 26-mile journey. Most authors are not willing to do what it takes successfully market their book.
Therefore, it is no wonder that the Publishers Market Association reports that 98% of authors will never sell more than 2,000 copies of their book. Self-publishing guru, Dan Poynter compares promoting a successful book to spending 18 years raising your child.
In the last seven years of selling over 125,000 copies of my book, I have executed most all of the strategies listed below in one form or another. Some have worked very well, and others not so well, but all have worked! You need to decide which marketing strategies best fit your personality, and which will help you achieve your book goals as quickly as possible.
Remember, if you don't stand up and tell the world about your book, then no one else will. Dan Poynter states that best-seller status is achieved when and author sell 35,000 copies of their book. I challenge you to implement these strategies so that you can turn your book into a best-seller.
1. Join PRLeads.com to get world wide media attention for your book
2. Do a Book Trailer with bestsellertrailers.com and post on your web site
3. Get your book distributed in bookstores world wide via Book Clearinghouse
4. Get your book listed on Amazon.com/advantage
5. Place your book cover image on the flip side of your business card
6. Convert your book into an E-Book
7. Get a customize license plate frame for your car with your web address listed
8. Place your books face out in window displays at bookstores (reverse stealing)
9. Get your hands in the decision makers of book clubs throughout the world
10. Market your books direct selling organization's book-of-the-month program
11. Sell books at back of the room table near exit after speaking
12. Offer buy two books, get one free promotions
13. Advise others that your book makes for a great holiday gift
14. After your speech when asked to do photos, always have book cover in photo
15. Always leave a copy of your book on your dash board of car for others to see
16. Always turn your books face out when seeing them in bookstores
17. Place business cards with book cover displaying on all community bulletin boards
18. Provide your books as door prizes at your speaking engagements
19. Provide your books as door prizes at all events that you attend
20. Sell book in volume at half price to others who can make money selling full price
21. Focus on selling books 10,000 at a time, instead of one at a time
22. Have friends sell your books at their point of purchase displays (coffee stands)
23. Display your book cover and photo on your email auto-signature
24. Carry your book with you at all times - you never know who you will meet
25. Sell book to seminar companies who will give it away as lure to attract attendees
26. Partner with entrepreneur who will give your book away in their marketing efforts
27. Get your books in the hand of all top performers in all MLM companies
28. Sell book to corporations with their company CEO having foreword in book
29. Get your book in Target Stores
30. Get your books in Wall Mart
31. Get your books in Costco / Sam's Club
32. Leave a copy of your book at registration table for all conferences you attend
33. Send out 5-10 review copies of your book daily to people who can buy in volume
34. Send press releases of your book to newspapers
35. Send your book to editors of magazines to review
36. Write articles for magazines after editor reviews your book
37. Get book reviews done and then have these review posted at Amazon and BN
38. Trade books with other speakers and then each of you sell the others at back table
39. Give book to MC, often times they will hold it with them in front of audience
40. Give books away to local libraries
41. Instead of purchasing Christmas gifts for others, give your book as gift
42. Do radio interviews often, and give free books to callers
43. Get on TV as often as you can and promote your book
44. Give your e-Book away as special bonus to other authors marketing their books
45. Submit your books at fundraisers and silent auctions
46. Create t-shirts with your domain / URL listed on the back of the shirt
47. Do the same thing with bumper stickers
48. Do book signings at book stores and help them promote the event
49. Conduct own seminars / workshops and give book away with each paid admission
50. Leave books behind in strategic high traffic areas like first class seating in planes
The Snow Group (800) 951-7721http://www.CreateYourOwnDestiny.com http://www.BestSellerPublishingCoaching.comhttp://www.BestSellerPublishingUniversity.com
PATRICK SNOW is the best selling author of Creating Your Own Destiny, a professional speaker, publishing coach, and entrepreneur. He has been called "The Dean of Destiny" by high achievers worldwide. His book and destiny message has been featured in the The New York Times and also as cover story in USA Today. His book has sold over 125,000 copies worldwide.
Patrick is also the founder of Creating Your Own Destiny University - An adult education program designed to "Help You Achieve Your Destiny Through Business Ownership!"
As a business ownership advocate, Patrick's mission is to help others overcome their fears by turning their career distress into personal success, through business ownership. He also shares several insights on how small business owners can grow their businesses on a limit budget. Patrick resides on Bainbridge Island, Washington, along with his wife and their two boys.
He can be reached at (206) 780-1787
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_E._Snow
Therefore, it is no wonder that the Publishers Market Association reports that 98% of authors will never sell more than 2,000 copies of their book. Self-publishing guru, Dan Poynter compares promoting a successful book to spending 18 years raising your child.
In the last seven years of selling over 125,000 copies of my book, I have executed most all of the strategies listed below in one form or another. Some have worked very well, and others not so well, but all have worked! You need to decide which marketing strategies best fit your personality, and which will help you achieve your book goals as quickly as possible.
Remember, if you don't stand up and tell the world about your book, then no one else will. Dan Poynter states that best-seller status is achieved when and author sell 35,000 copies of their book. I challenge you to implement these strategies so that you can turn your book into a best-seller.
1. Join PRLeads.com to get world wide media attention for your book
2. Do a Book Trailer with bestsellertrailers.com and post on your web site
3. Get your book distributed in bookstores world wide via Book Clearinghouse
4. Get your book listed on Amazon.com/advantage
5. Place your book cover image on the flip side of your business card
6. Convert your book into an E-Book
7. Get a customize license plate frame for your car with your web address listed
8. Place your books face out in window displays at bookstores (reverse stealing)
9. Get your hands in the decision makers of book clubs throughout the world
10. Market your books direct selling organization's book-of-the-month program
11. Sell books at back of the room table near exit after speaking
12. Offer buy two books, get one free promotions
13. Advise others that your book makes for a great holiday gift
14. After your speech when asked to do photos, always have book cover in photo
15. Always leave a copy of your book on your dash board of car for others to see
16. Always turn your books face out when seeing them in bookstores
17. Place business cards with book cover displaying on all community bulletin boards
18. Provide your books as door prizes at your speaking engagements
19. Provide your books as door prizes at all events that you attend
20. Sell book in volume at half price to others who can make money selling full price
21. Focus on selling books 10,000 at a time, instead of one at a time
22. Have friends sell your books at their point of purchase displays (coffee stands)
23. Display your book cover and photo on your email auto-signature
24. Carry your book with you at all times - you never know who you will meet
25. Sell book to seminar companies who will give it away as lure to attract attendees
26. Partner with entrepreneur who will give your book away in their marketing efforts
27. Get your books in the hand of all top performers in all MLM companies
28. Sell book to corporations with their company CEO having foreword in book
29. Get your book in Target Stores
30. Get your books in Wall Mart
31. Get your books in Costco / Sam's Club
32. Leave a copy of your book at registration table for all conferences you attend
33. Send out 5-10 review copies of your book daily to people who can buy in volume
34. Send press releases of your book to newspapers
35. Send your book to editors of magazines to review
36. Write articles for magazines after editor reviews your book
37. Get book reviews done and then have these review posted at Amazon and BN
38. Trade books with other speakers and then each of you sell the others at back table
39. Give book to MC, often times they will hold it with them in front of audience
40. Give books away to local libraries
41. Instead of purchasing Christmas gifts for others, give your book as gift
42. Do radio interviews often, and give free books to callers
43. Get on TV as often as you can and promote your book
44. Give your e-Book away as special bonus to other authors marketing their books
45. Submit your books at fundraisers and silent auctions
46. Create t-shirts with your domain / URL listed on the back of the shirt
47. Do the same thing with bumper stickers
48. Do book signings at book stores and help them promote the event
49. Conduct own seminars / workshops and give book away with each paid admission
50. Leave books behind in strategic high traffic areas like first class seating in planes
The Snow Group (800) 951-7721http://www.CreateYourOwnDestiny.com http://www.BestSellerPublishingCoaching.comhttp://www.BestSellerPublishingUniversity.com
PATRICK SNOW is the best selling author of Creating Your Own Destiny, a professional speaker, publishing coach, and entrepreneur. He has been called "The Dean of Destiny" by high achievers worldwide. His book and destiny message has been featured in the The New York Times and also as cover story in USA Today. His book has sold over 125,000 copies worldwide.
Patrick is also the founder of Creating Your Own Destiny University - An adult education program designed to "Help You Achieve Your Destiny Through Business Ownership!"
As a business ownership advocate, Patrick's mission is to help others overcome their fears by turning their career distress into personal success, through business ownership. He also shares several insights on how small business owners can grow their businesses on a limit budget. Patrick resides on Bainbridge Island, Washington, along with his wife and their two boys.
He can be reached at (206) 780-1787
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_E._Snow
Straightforward Information On Publishing Your First Book
This is a guide on publishing your first book. So if you're ready to take those first steps then please read on. Whether it's an Ebook, a storybook, or even a travel guide there are some fundamentals that remain the same and it's these that we will focus your attention on.
It can be extremely difficult for someone with absolutely no experience in the publishing industry to make his own way in the field and do everything correctly. Every situation requires a specific approach, and things can become really confusing when you find that someone is trying to sell you a service at every turn you take. Remember, in this business everyone tries to dig as deep as possible in your wallet. But you can save yourself a lot of money if you publish your first book on your own by gathering the needed information from the world's biggest library - The Internet. It can be complicated and there is no official guide to book publishing so even with all the advice in the world you have to make a few carefully chosen decisions.
The best way of doing this by working with companies that will make money if your book sells well, This way there is a common goal and you can be sure that the company will be working hard for you. For a trivial setup fee, companies like Replica, Amazon, and Lightning Source can put your books in print. But before you get into all the publishing stuff, you have to make sure of some things. The main questions of course is - Will your book sell well? To answer that, you have to investigate and find out what's your target audience. Do your research! Who do you expect to be reading your book? Of course, the best selling tactic is to have as wide as possible target audience, if possible to have a book that will be of interest to everyone. But this is almost impossible. Even the bestsellers have some well-defined audience. Also, check if there are books similar to yours because that can seriously affect the sales.
The next phase is all about finding the right company to publish your first book. Some publishers will ask you to mail them information regarding yourself and your book to determine if they are interested or not. Things that are typically required are - cover letter, resume, synopsis, sample chapters, and marketing Plan. Synopsis is like a summary of the book you have written. Publishers usually tell in what type of form they want it, the number of pages (usually 3-4), or asking for a chapter-by-chapter synopsis.
Developing the marketing plan for your book is probably the toughest part. Here you will have to specify the promotional activities you are planning on carrying out in order to increase the public's awareness of your work. This could involve the creation of a website, a speech at the local library, magazine advertisements, and an interview arrangement at a radio station. The bottom line is that there is a lot of time, money, and effort involved in publishing your first book, but in the end, and if it's your true passion, it can be very rewarding and well worth the wait.
Depending on which type of book you are looking to publish there are a number of strategies that will help you in your quest. Book Publishing Marketing has been made a great deal easier in recent years and the Internet has played an important role in this. Learn the steps you should take to get your first book seen by the world.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dawn_Smith
It can be extremely difficult for someone with absolutely no experience in the publishing industry to make his own way in the field and do everything correctly. Every situation requires a specific approach, and things can become really confusing when you find that someone is trying to sell you a service at every turn you take. Remember, in this business everyone tries to dig as deep as possible in your wallet. But you can save yourself a lot of money if you publish your first book on your own by gathering the needed information from the world's biggest library - The Internet. It can be complicated and there is no official guide to book publishing so even with all the advice in the world you have to make a few carefully chosen decisions.
The best way of doing this by working with companies that will make money if your book sells well, This way there is a common goal and you can be sure that the company will be working hard for you. For a trivial setup fee, companies like Replica, Amazon, and Lightning Source can put your books in print. But before you get into all the publishing stuff, you have to make sure of some things. The main questions of course is - Will your book sell well? To answer that, you have to investigate and find out what's your target audience. Do your research! Who do you expect to be reading your book? Of course, the best selling tactic is to have as wide as possible target audience, if possible to have a book that will be of interest to everyone. But this is almost impossible. Even the bestsellers have some well-defined audience. Also, check if there are books similar to yours because that can seriously affect the sales.
The next phase is all about finding the right company to publish your first book. Some publishers will ask you to mail them information regarding yourself and your book to determine if they are interested or not. Things that are typically required are - cover letter, resume, synopsis, sample chapters, and marketing Plan. Synopsis is like a summary of the book you have written. Publishers usually tell in what type of form they want it, the number of pages (usually 3-4), or asking for a chapter-by-chapter synopsis.
Developing the marketing plan for your book is probably the toughest part. Here you will have to specify the promotional activities you are planning on carrying out in order to increase the public's awareness of your work. This could involve the creation of a website, a speech at the local library, magazine advertisements, and an interview arrangement at a radio station. The bottom line is that there is a lot of time, money, and effort involved in publishing your first book, but in the end, and if it's your true passion, it can be very rewarding and well worth the wait.
Depending on which type of book you are looking to publish there are a number of strategies that will help you in your quest. Book Publishing Marketing has been made a great deal easier in recent years and the Internet has played an important role in this. Learn the steps you should take to get your first book seen by the world.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dawn_Smith
How to Charter a Private Jet for a Pleasure Trip
Private jets are not only for the rich and famous. Luxury Air Jets is a company that specializes in on-demand jet charter. I interviewed one of their senior private aviation specialists about how to charter a private jet for a pleasure trip.
For many people, the long lines at the commercial airports can be very frustrating. Flying on a chartered private jet could be an easy alternative to help alleviate most of your flying frustration.
I interviewed Franswa Ligon, Senior Director of Sales with Luxury Air Jets, about how to make flying on a private jet affordable for a group of friends earning more than $95,000/year.
I met him at their corporate headquarters in midtown Manhattan. Their office is conveniently located on the 2nd floor on 144 East 44 Street near the Grand Central Station off Lexington Ave.
Tom: This is my first time flying on a private jet and I want to take a group of my friends with me to Aruba. What is the best approach to charter a private jet?
Franswa: First call Luxury Air Jets and ask for me. Seriously, it’s important to speak to one of our Aviation Specialists about your needs and wants. With chartered flights, private jets are available on demand.
Tom: How quickly can you have us scheduled for a flight?
Franswa: Luxury Air Jets can usually have you up and flying within four hours.
Tom: In that case, it’s not really necessary to plan trip weeks in advance, right?
Franswa: That’s right. We have access to over 6000 private jets and can have you and your friends take off from the nearest airport within four hours.
Tom: I have five friends that want to go from Manhattan to Aruba for four days. Could you give me a rough estimate on how much this could cost us?
Franswa: The distance between New York City private airport (NYC) and Aruba is approximately 2000 miles. It takes almost four and a half hour to travel there on a Medsize Jet. Off the top of my head, this trip could cost about $39,000 round-trip. And if you have five friends that will be going on this trip, that’s about $7800 each person. Additionally, we can offer full service catering, wine & spirits, and anything else that your heart’s desire. We aim to please all of our clients.
Tom: Sounds great. What type of private jet do you recommend?
Franswa: We want you and your friends to be comfortable because it’s a 4 ½ hour flight so I would highly recommend a Mid-size private jet Hawker 800 XP. The Hawker 800 XP can seat between 8 to 9 people comfortably.
Tom: I didn’t realize that flying on a private jet can be so affordable. With this scenario, I would imagine that many people can afford to fly in luxury now. Do you have anything else to add before I end this interview?
Franswa: We have one of the highest safety associations in the industry. We only use ARG/US Platinum or Gold rated private jets. All of our pilots are retrained at least twice a year and the private jets they fly are maintained on a regular basis under FAR 135. Most importantly, we only use jets that are less than five years old. You can get a free quote on our website http://www.luxuryairjets.com or you can call us at 212.204.5701. Ask for Franswa or one of our Aviation Specialists.
Tom Chuong is a Online Marketing Director for Luxury Air Jets, Inc. Luxury Air Jets specializes in providing corporate jets, and charter private jets for business and personal needs. You can request a free quote at their website: http://www.luxuryairjets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Chuong
For many people, the long lines at the commercial airports can be very frustrating. Flying on a chartered private jet could be an easy alternative to help alleviate most of your flying frustration.
I interviewed Franswa Ligon, Senior Director of Sales with Luxury Air Jets, about how to make flying on a private jet affordable for a group of friends earning more than $95,000/year.
I met him at their corporate headquarters in midtown Manhattan. Their office is conveniently located on the 2nd floor on 144 East 44 Street near the Grand Central Station off Lexington Ave.
Tom: This is my first time flying on a private jet and I want to take a group of my friends with me to Aruba. What is the best approach to charter a private jet?
Franswa: First call Luxury Air Jets and ask for me. Seriously, it’s important to speak to one of our Aviation Specialists about your needs and wants. With chartered flights, private jets are available on demand.
Tom: How quickly can you have us scheduled for a flight?
Franswa: Luxury Air Jets can usually have you up and flying within four hours.
Tom: In that case, it’s not really necessary to plan trip weeks in advance, right?
Franswa: That’s right. We have access to over 6000 private jets and can have you and your friends take off from the nearest airport within four hours.
Tom: I have five friends that want to go from Manhattan to Aruba for four days. Could you give me a rough estimate on how much this could cost us?
Franswa: The distance between New York City private airport (NYC) and Aruba is approximately 2000 miles. It takes almost four and a half hour to travel there on a Medsize Jet. Off the top of my head, this trip could cost about $39,000 round-trip. And if you have five friends that will be going on this trip, that’s about $7800 each person. Additionally, we can offer full service catering, wine & spirits, and anything else that your heart’s desire. We aim to please all of our clients.
Tom: Sounds great. What type of private jet do you recommend?
Franswa: We want you and your friends to be comfortable because it’s a 4 ½ hour flight so I would highly recommend a Mid-size private jet Hawker 800 XP. The Hawker 800 XP can seat between 8 to 9 people comfortably.
Tom: I didn’t realize that flying on a private jet can be so affordable. With this scenario, I would imagine that many people can afford to fly in luxury now. Do you have anything else to add before I end this interview?
Franswa: We have one of the highest safety associations in the industry. We only use ARG/US Platinum or Gold rated private jets. All of our pilots are retrained at least twice a year and the private jets they fly are maintained on a regular basis under FAR 135. Most importantly, we only use jets that are less than five years old. You can get a free quote on our website http://www.luxuryairjets.com or you can call us at 212.204.5701. Ask for Franswa or one of our Aviation Specialists.
Tom Chuong is a Online Marketing Director for Luxury Air Jets, Inc. Luxury Air Jets specializes in providing corporate jets, and charter private jets for business and personal needs. You can request a free quote at their website: http://www.luxuryairjets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Chuong
Private Jet Costs - Find Out How Much It Costs To Have Your Own Jet
If you have a private jet, your company has one or you are looking into purchasing one there are a few things that need to be considered. Primarily is the costs, having a private jet comes with some significant costs and while these costs are probably less than what would be paid for everyone in the company or everyone who was using the plane to fly commercially it still can constitute a large piece of overhead.
Here are some of the costs you have to figure in when owning a private jet.
Storage - Most companies would have to store their plane somewhere. There are usually two types of storage options available at an air port, hanger and outside of the hanger. Obviously, outside the hanger means your plane gets parked just like at a parking lot while in a hanger means it is put away in a covered building. Costs vary based on the airport or company you are storing the plane with.
Pilot and Maintenance - having a private jet means you have to have a pilot unless you are flying it yourself and you are responsible for all maintenance costs.
Fuel - These days this can be a fairly expensive addition to any flight.
Depending on the airport you are heading too there may be a waiting fee or parking fee if you have to leave the plane overnight.
You also have to figure in the costs of food, drinks, and a flight attendant or co pilot if one is necessary. Still, even with all of these expenses between the wasted times sitting waiting for flights, delays due to equipment, having to spend extra nights on either side because of black out dates or added days in order to get a less expensive flight package. If works out to be less of an expense if you aren't entirely sure figure out the hourly wages, the extra hotel time, the wasted time in the air, the wear on employees, the lay over times as well as the costs of the actual flight and you'll find there is a significant different in price.
Find out more about private jet costs at http://www.rentingaprivatejet.com where you will find more information on how to rent a private jet.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Max_Suther
Here are some of the costs you have to figure in when owning a private jet.
Storage - Most companies would have to store their plane somewhere. There are usually two types of storage options available at an air port, hanger and outside of the hanger. Obviously, outside the hanger means your plane gets parked just like at a parking lot while in a hanger means it is put away in a covered building. Costs vary based on the airport or company you are storing the plane with.
Pilot and Maintenance - having a private jet means you have to have a pilot unless you are flying it yourself and you are responsible for all maintenance costs.
Fuel - These days this can be a fairly expensive addition to any flight.
Depending on the airport you are heading too there may be a waiting fee or parking fee if you have to leave the plane overnight.
You also have to figure in the costs of food, drinks, and a flight attendant or co pilot if one is necessary. Still, even with all of these expenses between the wasted times sitting waiting for flights, delays due to equipment, having to spend extra nights on either side because of black out dates or added days in order to get a less expensive flight package. If works out to be less of an expense if you aren't entirely sure figure out the hourly wages, the extra hotel time, the wasted time in the air, the wear on employees, the lay over times as well as the costs of the actual flight and you'll find there is a significant different in price.
Find out more about private jet costs at http://www.rentingaprivatejet.com where you will find more information on how to rent a private jet.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Max_Suther
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