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Do You Use Sarcasm Don’t! It’s Deadly… and the User He’s an Adult Bully!

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:48 +0000

“Ouch, those words hurt. I know you were joking, but what you said isn’t funny.”

“WHAT are you saying? Would you please be quiet? You are embarrassing me in front of all of these people!!!!”

“Oh my gosh.. I can’t believe she said that to that person. Doesn’t she know that SHE is the one who looks bad?”

Have you ever mumbled these words to yourself after someone used their razor sharp tongue to slice you or someone you know? Have you ever felt your temperature rising and meanwhile you had a smile plastered on your face?? Someone just zinged you and it was couched as a joke, but it really stung like a bee?

These are some of the internal things that are going on in the midst of a person who doesn’t have control over their tongue. They use sarcasm and they think it’s funny. They think that they’re the big shot, because they’re constantly on top. They can get out of any situation without hurting. They can survive any where because no one is going to take advantage of them!

I know. I used to be a user of sarcasm. I used to be the one who would unintentionally hurt people.

I’m not any more. I’ve learned that it was a defense mechanism for the hurt I felt inside. And now, I want others to know, there is HELP for you.. and the other side? IT:’S BETTER!!!

I experienced a person who was throwing zingers every chance she got. If you’d ask her to hand you a pen, she’d make you beg. If you said, “How is your day, she’d say, “it was good until I saw you”. People laugh. They smile. But really, what is happening inside is they are screaming, ‘GET ME AWAY FROM THIS PERSON!!!”

It’s hard to look back at myself and realize that I was a repeat offender. I was the young and cocky one. I was the one making a lot of money so I could shoot down anyone and win. My bank account told me that I was as cool as they come. I was successful on the world’s eyes and nothing I could say or do could hold me back. I knew how to play the “Nice” game. I had clients who knew me as a loving and fun agent, and I knew that I worked hard and could make them happy. What else did I need? Who else did I need? I had money and a close friend or two, and my mom and dad always loved me so everyone else could just kiss off!

In reality? I was hurting. I knew that I didn’t have the ability to be vulnerable. I knew that I was covering up a lot of sensitivity that was hurting. I didn’t ever MEAN to be mean, or a bully, but I couldn’t seem to help it. Every time I’d get close to someone, I’d end up saying something mean, sarcastic or cocky that would turn them off to me. I hated it, yet I didn’t know how to stop it.

I was an adult bully. And if you use sarcasm? You are too!!!

Let me tell you how it starts. You were bullied yourself. You had to pretend to be bigger and tougher than you really were so you wouldn’t be hurt all the time. Your verbal finesse got good because you were defending yourself. It probably happened to you when you were a kid. You were probably defending yourself from an older sibling who picked on you all of the time or even a parent who thought that teasing was funny. Maybe it was common place in your family to tease one another. Maybe the others enjoyed the back and forth joking, but you? You were a more sensitive person who took it to heart. You had no other way to survive but put up your dukes.. and strike back.

At the world!!!

I keep thinking about that song that my son is learning in preschool, “Hit me with your best shot. Come on and hit me with your best shot.. fire away” It’s a Pat Benetar song and it’s a classic. You can see how the victim of bullying can BECOME the BULLY!!!

How do you get over it? Well, it’s not always easy!! But it is possible!!! Start by STOPPING ANY SORT of SARCASM. You’ll catch yourself over and over, but find an alternative way to express yourself. Put a rubber band around your wrist and snap it every time you are sarcastic, but just STOP DOING IT.

Next, everyone who is around you knows that it is a defense mechanism. We’ve all watched Dr. Phil or Oprah enough to know that you are truly hurting inside. It’s NO SECRET. You are a BLATENT ADVERTISEMENT for what it feels like to be hurting inside. TRUST me the SECOND you say something sarcastic, people know that you are on the defense. You aren’t fooling ANYONE!!!

Myself included. When I go back to those old habits, which I occasionally do when I’m challenged, I know that the person is just ruffling my feathers and that I can back down and still have my self esteem in tact. It sometimes takes a minute, but I usually get there.

The ULTIMATE thing you can do is to find someone to discuss how you were so hurt as a child. You can go back and relive those things so you can find it in yourself to forgive those people and be able to move on as a healthy person. Yes, THERAPY is a great place to do that. And don’t give me that , “DON”T TELL ME TO GO TO THERAPY CRAP” or say, “that’ s too touchy feely for me”.

I know. I used to say the same thing. But trust me, when you really have courage, you’ll face yourself. Sometimes that is the hardest thing to do. And when you really have courage, you’ll be able to discuss yourself with another person. And in the context of therapy, it’s confidential. You might even shed a tear or two. “OH NO.. HORRORS!!! SHEDDING A TEAR!!! “

Ooooops.. there I go again!!! Sorry.

I just want to tell you, that a healthy man or woman has all sorts of feelings. Good, bad, indifferent. They are all apart of the human psyche. We are supposed to be able to express anger. And you should express anger if you were bullied as a child. And if you don’t address this bad habit that you endured, you’ll possibly pass it on to your family and that will continue the hurt at a deep level.

Words are the best things that you can give a person. They are also the most painful thing that you can ever inflict upon another person if they are filled with venom. It’s hurtful and it’s nasty. And if you inflict horrible, mean jokes on other people and pass them off as funny, then you need help. You need to change. And if you don’t, you’ll hurt and be lonely for a very long time.

I’m happier now as a person. I’m able to laugh and cry and express every emotion that I’m capable of having. I know I’m an extremely sensitive person now, but that is what helps me in sales, and it’s what I use as a coach. I can feel for others and know how they feel. I don’t have an emotional void anymore. I feel free to love and be loved.

So please pass this on to anyone you know who uses sarcasm. I don’t care if it’s the priest or pastor of your church. If they use it, they can get over it. And they need to know, that they are being a BULLY!!!

Life on the other side can be great. But get to work guys.. and let me know what happens! I can’t wait to hear what this blog stirs up. I’m sure it will..

But I’m ready. Give me your best shot! Fire away!!! I can handle it. But the question is.. CAN YOU?

COMMENTS FROM FRIENDS

Hi Mary——just finished reading y our blog. I have noticed or did you touch on this. That some people will say something to you that is kind of offensivebut they kind of laugh, if you say anything , they say you are too sensitive-that it was only a joke.. The fact of the matter is that it has given them a chance to vent, or dump on you , and given you no chance for a discussion about the matter.
Another thing I,ve noticed , some people will lash out, another tactic where they get to vent, and they will walk off in a huff. Never mind that they never can find the grace to apologize for their behavior. (E.M. Florida)

Mary, this is a FABULOUS story! It really spoke to me this morning. In fact, I’ve had quite a bit of trouble lately, not so much with sarcasm, but with a contentious spirit. I have become very quick to anger when things aren’t going perfectly for me. I’m glad that I recognize it and can work on it. I have prayed that God will keep me mindful of my tongue and that I will say only things that will praise Him and edify others. Read the following scripture that I was focusing on this morning…Proverbs 21:9 & 19 and James 3 (the entire chapter). It’s no coincidence that God led me there.

See you soon,

JT (Raliegh, NC)

Dude,

Hi there! I loved this essay - it was so helpful - right now I am really struggling with family issues (abusive in laws - my own mom’s verbal abuse, etc) all of which has affected my marriage so much…..my husband and I got into a Marriage Course at church so we are finally looking at how we communicate…it’s great and I am hopeful and I know God is still in charge of even this difficult time for me….

BUT just this morning at breakfast I prayed in front of the kids that God would from THIS MOMENT on make the words that come out of my mouth be spoken KINDLY. I have been convicted that although so much has changed in my heart -what is comiing out of my mouth often doesn’t reflect it….
So - your blog helped! (I don’t even know what a BLOG really is - yours is first I’ve ever tried but this was good)

Your talents are going to good use, girl….

(A friend from Europe)

Dear Mary,

Your article on sarcasm and adults bullys was amazing! What you are saying is completely true. My current boss consistantly uses sarcasm to make points and everyone says he is like a bully. After reading this artical I can confirm my boss is a bully. In fact just last week he came up with a one liner to make a “joke” as you say which was not funny at all. So un-funny was this joke that a small feeling of insult was left behind. Great article, I enjoyed reading it very much. If you have any more articles, send them I would love to read them, keep on writing.

Mary Gardner, The Charisma Coach! is an Executive Communications Consultant and Trainer. She works with, coaches and trains individuals, sales teams, executives, and celebrities. She owned and operated one of the first coaching institutions on the east coast, CCI, in NYC, Philly and NJ. Mary has appeared on ABC’s 20/20 and has self published a book on public speaking. Mary is married to Sway and is mommy to Jeremy 5, and lives in Orlando, FL.

Recent Updates to the Dish Network Channel Packages

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:37 +0000

Dish Network is continually trying to meet the needs of their viewers by improving the Dish Network channel packages. This is one of the ways that Dish keeps their customers satisfied. The Dish Network channel packages are frequently being updated with new channels not only to please their current customers but also to appeal to new customers. Here are some of the recent additions to the Dish Network channel packages:

Bridges TV

Bridges TV is the American Muslim lifestyle Network offered in the English language. Bridges TV has sitcoms, movies, cooking shows, cartoons, and news reports that are relevant to Muslim culture. Bridges TV is now offered nationwide via Dish Network. One of the most popular programs on the channel is Each Other, a show about a Muslim woman in the United States who is trying to make it as a reporter in New York. Bridges TV is just one example of Dish Network’s multi-cultural television channels (Dish offers about sixteen different international packages, each in a different language).

Bridges TV will certainly increase the Dish Network audience adding a whole new market that will find interest in Dish Network channels. With already more than seven million Muslim Americans and growing, there is a large audience for this new additional channel. There is also hope that Bridges TV will help bring a greater understanding to this often misunderstood religion. The Bridges TV addition to the Dish Network channel lineup will definitely give the viewer more options. Bridges TV can be found on channel 578.

Voom HD Channels

High Definition Television (HDTV), a digital television format, gives a superior sound and picture quality. HDTV has a very high resolution, about twice that of conventional television. Voom is a company that offered the largest range of HDTV programming but is now no longer in business. In order to increase the Dish Network channel offering, Dish Network has purchased Voom’s satellite. This gives Dish customers the chance to watch several original Voom HD channels

The new addition of these Voom channels makes Dish Network’s HD package the best in the nation. Viewers now have access to channels such as RUSH HD, Gallery HD, Rave HD, Ultra HD, Equator HD, Monsters HD, Animania HD, Majestic HD, HD News and Guy TV HD. These channels have programs on fashion, fiction, travel, science, music concerts and much more. The addition of these high-definition channels to the current Dish Network channel packages definitely enhances what Dish has to offer for their viewers.

Eventual Addition of a Karaoke Channel

There are future plans to add a Dish Network channel that will allow one to karaoke with the use of this new channel. This will be the nation’s first interactive Karaoke channel and will change the way Dish Network is viewed. A Karaoke channel adds a whole new dimension on television programs and how they are used.

This Karaoke channel comes from Sound Choice and was created by OpenTV Corporation. Dish Network customers will have a choice of two play lists with ten songs each that will change every two weeks. These songs will range in style and genre from hip-hop to country. Viewers will be given a chance to try it out for free before subscribing to see what it is all about. This will be a new and exciting addition to the current Dish Network channel packages.

The additions of Bridges TV, Voom channels, and the eventual addition of a karaoke channel, all will enhance the Dish Network channel line-up. These additions will add to the great possibilities available with Dish Network. These Dish Network channel additions will give more to viewers.

Kaitlin Carruth is a client account specialist with 10x Marketing- More Visitors. More Buyers. More Revenue. To get more Dish Network channel information, please visit I-Satellite

Satellite Radio - The Waves Of The Future

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:22 +0000

Satellite Radio - Its here! Satellite radio is a new service being offered by two companies, XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Both companies are offering over 100 channels of streaming music and entertainment. High quality sound is achieved through the use of satellites orbiting high above. Satellite radio is commercial free and free from regulations by federal committees. The impossible, is now possible, hearing the same radio station across North America and from coast to coast. All made possible by XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio.

Normal radio has been around for decades and is part of many people’s lifestyle. This is changing. Regular radio is monitored and regulated by the Federal Communications Commission, whom has fined several radio stations and media companies within the last 3-4 years. The FCC has only fined radio stations a maximum of $27,500 per show no matter how man profanities were aired.

Recently the FCC has been upping the ante and in conjunction with Congress has decided to raise the fine up to $500,000 per incident per station (Potter). A slap on the wrist has turned into a business-changing event. “Sexually explicit comments by Bubba the Love Sponge and Howard Stern could get a station in trouble no doubt about it. Clear Channel Radio dropped both shock jocks this year after being hit with record fines.”(Potter) Recently Howard Stern has made a move to Sirius Satellite Radio in an effort to preserve his career and free speech. Consumers are reaching towards satellite radio as a way to hear unregulated news and content.

Recently XM Satellite Radio has claimed to have over 3 million subscribers paying $9.99 per month and Sirius claims to have over 1.3 million customers paying $12.95 per month. Many of those customers pay an additional $2.99 per month for premium content such as the upcoming Howard Stern Show.

Several normal radio stations and media outlets are realizing the potential to get their message across in a broad fashion. XM has launched a morning show, which is hosted by Bob Edwards, whom was fired earlier this year by National Public Radio. “The Bob Edwards Show” will air on a public satellite radio channel that also features news and programs from Public Radio International, among others. Sirius has its own public radio channel carrying NPR programs. Consumers and companies are demanding free speech and it seems that satellite radio is the vehicle.

XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio have designed satellite broadcast systems that differ but they achieve the same high quality of satellite radio. A milestone of this success is the fact that satellite radio signals that are available across the United States and into Mexico and Canada. Rock and Roll - No it’s not a genre any more! XM Satellite Radio has two satellites named Rock and Roll, which remain in parallel geostationary orbit to provide radio coverage throughout the United States. Sirius Satellite Radio has chose to use three satellites in an inclined elliptical orbit. This configuration provides 16 hours per satellite of signal, which gives a great redundancy if any satellite were to fail. Playing it smart, Sirius and XM both have spare satellites, which can be called on in a moments notice if needed.

XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio have Earth based broadcast stations that are used to send up information to the satellites, which is then dispersed through out the globe. Sirius and XM both have disk jockeys that manage, create and program music which is then sent up to the satellites. The information is then taken in by the satellites and sent through a rebroadcast of the streams to earth. The Major advantage of this is that, unlike earth-based radio stations whose signals reach listeners 150 miles away, satellite radio signals have a huge reach, and are receivable anywhere within the continental United States and hundreds of miles in each direction of the borders. Satellite Radio is growing to become a worldwide network and offerings are growing throughout the world. XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio are making it happen.

Unregulated Satellite Radio is the answer for free speech in a government regulated airwaves arena. Not only can listeners hear unbiased information but also they can listen to it anywhere in the United States. Media giants are jumping to get the piece of the pie regarding satellite radio, as the new wave of the future is satellite radio.

Scott fish is the Owner of Satellite Radio Receivers Sirius and XM Reviews

Top Satellite Radio is a resource for consumers seeking the history and facts about satellite radio. We also sell electronics related to Satellite Radio. Quick Access: http://www.TopSatRadio.com

Church Projector and Church Projector Systems

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:17 +0000

Purchasing a church projector for your Sunday morning services will dramatically change how your service is received by the congregation. Church projector systems provide the flexibility you may need to make things possible in your worship service that was not possible before. When considering a church projector for purchase make sure you are getting the best deal of the needs you have.

Some people might argue that instead of buying a church projector, it would be a better investment to buy a large screen TV. There are many reasons this is untrue. First, a large screen TV does not have nearly the life and portability that church projector systems have. Secondly, church projectors offer easier capabilities for hook up to other equipment such as sound systems and computers. Lastly, Large screen TVs are usually not large enough.

There are some specific measurements that need to be taken to figure out the actual size of church projector systems your church needs. It is crucial that you get the right size church projector screen. Whether you choose a ceiling mounted projector or a portable projector, nothing will matter if the screen is the wrong size. Measure the distance from where the screen is to the first row and measure the distance from where the screen is to the last row.

The next thing to consider in your church projector purchase is the amount of light needed in your church and from the church projector system. Any easy way to figure this out would be to take the surface area and multiply that by how many Lumens (light measurement) is recommended by your salesperson. The best thing to do is just take the measurements concerning the church rows in to the salesman and let him do his job.

Beware of faulty salesmen though. If they don’t ask for measurements and want to take a ‘guesstimate’ of what you will need, maybe you need to find another salesperson. The last thing you want to do is end up with a screen that is too small and you have to return it. This is a big investment and it should be handled professionally.

So now that you have an understanding of the church projector screen, let’s make sure to touch on the actual system. Church projector systems range widely in price. The higher the price, the more gadgets you will have to work with. This is great if you intend on using them and have someone that knows how to use them, but does you no good if they sit unused. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what your church hopes to accomplish with the purchase of their church projector and exactly who will be running the system. It only makes sense to me to involve the person who will be controlling the church projector. If they know anything about church projector systems, then they will be a valuable, honest resource.

For more information about church projector and church projector systems, visit:
http://churchfurniture.christianet.com
http://churchfurniture.christianet.com/articles.htm
http://www.christianet.com

The Beginners Guide to IVR - Interactive Voice Response

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:15 +0000

The term IVR is short for Interactive Voice Response, which is a telephony technology that allows interaction between callers and a phone system to acquire or enter information into a database. More and more companies are turning to IVR to help reduce the cost of common sales, service, collections, inquiry and support calls to and from their company.

Interactive Voice Response or IVR is one of the most common telephone functions in use across the business community and is capable of bringing remarkable benefits to your company. IVR systems allow 24 hour access to a company from its customers via its phone system. In today’s busy modern world, most callers expect on first contact with a company, to be handled via some kind of Auto Attendant or Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system. This method of call handling is generally accepted as long as the caller is given ample opportunity to opt out of the IVR system and be able to speak to a live agent.

IVR systems offer a cost effective and money saving way of handling customer calls twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. The handling of routine phone requests for information can consume a substantial amount of company resources and ultimately money. Interactive Voice Response systems, tailored to a company’s requirements can provide much the same information as a live operator at a fraction of the cost both financially and resourcefully. To put things in their most simple form IVR systems let callers interact with your company via its telephone system.

IVR systems hugely reduce customer call handling costs, and can be introduced into your company environment in a number of ways. The most basic IVR systems simply allow you to record a message that is played when a customer presses the appropriate number on the phone keypad. The more advanced Interactive Voice Response systems allow callers to interact with a company on a much greater scale. For example you could set up an IVR to retrieve specific account information that is relayed to the caller through the implementation of text-to-speech recognition technology. This technology allows IVR systems to read specific information from a database and then relate that information back to the customer in spoken format.

Typical IVR - Interactive Voice Response System Applications

The potential applications of IVR systems are virtually endless. IVR systems can be used to automate a wide range of services and requests for information. By combining the input of a caller with tailor made scripts, IVR systems allow callers to call into a company or IVR hosting company using a touch-tone telephone, and then to interact with the system in real time. Below is a list of example IVR applications:

Automated account payment systems
Customer account information
Banking service for account balance transfer information
Customer market surveys
Emergency notifications
Virtual receptionists
Call centre automation
Order status and tracking
Package tracking
Virtual PBX’s
Voicemail services
Voice instant messaging
Bill reminder
Bill collection
Telesales
Virtual agents
Auto attendants
Call routing
Call recording solutions
Plus many, many more

Benefits of IVR Systems

Integrated Voice Response systems can be extremely beneficial to companies by cutting down on live call handling time, thus saving money and enabling staff to be free to concentrate on other business areas.
IVR systems can benefit callers by either allowing access to personalised information or, directing them to the right department or, by a combination of multiple input types and selections via menu choices involving telephone keypad input and speech recognition.
IVR systems allow callers to retrieve or access information quickly with or without additional human assistance.
Integrated Voice Response systems allow companies to easily expand their hours of business, without the need for live operators to be on hand. This allows callers to call at their convenience and still be able to carry out a multitude of tasks automatically.
Call queuing times to departments within a company can be drastically reduced. With IVR systems, calls can be transferred to appropriate departments through the menu selection process.
IVR systems allow company representatives to experience lower call volumes thorough the automation of repetitive tasks. This allows these representatives to manage their calls more efficiently and lets them to concentrate on more important issues.
Through the implementation of a good Integrated Voice Response System, companies may actually be able to expand their call capacity and respond to larger call volumes through the correct management and routing of all inbound calls, reducing the handling cost per call ratio.
For companies who accept payments via the telephone IVR systems can fully automate this task, allowing them to process transactions anytime of the day, any day of the week.
For when call volumes are high, IVR systems allow companies to highlight new products, updates or product information etc while a caller is on hold.
Companies are able to monitor call progress and transactions through the use of daily call activity reports.

Customer Premise Equipment (CPE) IVR or Hosted IVR The Choice Is Yours

CPE - This is equipment that is purchased or leased by a customer and is then located, hosted and maintained at the customers site. For most companies this is an expensive way of harnessing the power a good IVR system can bring to any business due to the initial cost of the hardware and installation work that would be required. For those companies that have the necessary funding for CPE there are of course benefits as well as drawbacks. CPE allows you to take full control of your IVR system and will also allow for future company expansion, though many hosted IVR solutions do allow for this also. The main drawback to CPE IVR systems is that you would need continuing technical support and maintenance either from your own internal staff or outsourced to the IVR system provider.

IVR Hosting - If a customer prefers not to host an IVR system on their premises, is restricted by location, lacks IT support or quite simply cannot withstand the initial financial outlay required for outright purchase then a remote IVR hosting solution that can be tailored to a company’s requirements could be the answer. This option is particularly attractive for small to medium sized businesses who wish to take advantage of a fully featured Interactive Voice Response system, with a vastly reduced initial capital outlay, as well as eradicating the need for system IT maintenance, and support.

Whichever form of IVR system you decide to implement, it is better to ask the advice of experts before you go ahead and purchase any hardware or sign any form of lease agreement. A good IVR systems provider or IVR hosting company will take the time to sit down with you and discuss your requirements in detail before helping you make a decision on what type of system you should opt for.

Thanks for reading.

For free help and advice regarding IVR, Hosted IVR or Virtual PBX systems please visit Business Phone Systems Direct for more information.

Basic Global Positioning System (GPS) Overview

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:11 +0000

The Global Positioning System, or GPS is a constellation of twenty four (24) active satellites and three (3) additional backup satellites. The GPS system was developed and implemented by the United States Air Force (USAF) for operational reasons, and has since become world wide phenomenon, used by hikers, outdoors men, and a vast array of commercial uses.

GPS works on the principals of Triangulation. Satellites send signals down to the earth, which are triangulated by the GPS receiver unit giving you your current location. In order to acquire your current location a receiver unit requires at least three satellite signals to extrapolate your location, though more is desirable. It is not uncommon to have your receiver pickup four to seven signals in any given location.

The GPS Satellites send out two signals:
1575.42 MHz - The Course Acquisition Signal (CA)
1227.6 MHz - Precision Signal (P)

All users, military or civilian are allowed to use the Course Acquisition signal, however the Precision signal is only used by the military, and gives much greater accuracy. The signals are closely monitored and audited by several stations, however the master station for GPS is located in Colorado Springs, USA, at Falcon Air Force Base (AFB).

Problems with the GPS System:
Unfortunately due to the very low signal strength (around -127 dBm) GPS receiver units are often unable to acquire a good signal if you are in an area of dense foliage or under a heavy tree canopy. The GPS signal is also unable to penetrate most solid items, and requires a view of the sky to be effective. Use in deep canyons, or inside large cities with tall buildings will cause reduced satellite acquisitions and thus less accuracy or no triangulation at all.

Since GPS receivers have become so mainstream people seem to have thrown away the map and compass which could be a dangerous mistake. GPS receivers are an electronic unit and have the potential to fail, cold climates, batteries, dropping it could leave you lost. A GPS is a wonderful tool, however it shouldn’t be a replacement for the old map and compass.

Fun and Games:
There are a lot of great uses for GPS receivers, from marking your favorite fishing spot, to GeoCaching! A standard GPS receiver is between 100-250 dollars and can be used to give you your speed, average speed, set waypoints (mark your favorite spots), record tracks where you have been and can be loaded maps of different regions around the world. They are a great tool for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts and can help foster a healthy outdoor activity for you and your family.

Ken Dennis
http://KenDennis-RSS.homeip.net/

The Red Cross and XM Team Up for Hurricane Victims

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:05 +0000

XM satellite radio and the American Red Cross teamed up to give the workers and relief help for Hurricane Katrina a source for national radio coverage. Red Cross staff and volunteers along the Gulf Coast now have access to the channel, which is a 24-hour, nationwide XM channel to provide help and information for Hurricane Katrina victims and other Red Cross workers across the country.

XM Channel 248 -dubbed the Red Cross Radio is now available on XM Satellite Radio from the west coast to the east coast. All XM receivers, portable, at home or in your car can now listen to the channel for updates and news. As part of the partnership, XM has donated radios to the Red Cross and relief workers so that they may stay up-to-date on a the relief effort. “In addition to Red Cross Radio, XM offers the XM Emergency Alert Channel (XM Channel 247), which tracked the hurricane’s progress and now provides updates on clean-up, road closures, school closings, and other information from federal and local governments, law enforcement, and other agencies.” - (XM satellite radio)

XM Radio is proud to have the Red Cross channel, which it is using to send out information and announcements to workers across the region. The portability and national coverage of the station allows all workers and all of those involved to be on the same wave length. Support for Red Cross efforts is being heard all across the country and the XM radio channel has played a large part in this relief effort.

Scott Fish is the owner of Satellite Radio Sirius and XM satellite Radio Reviews |
Search Engine Optimization Firm

Satellite Radio - Subscription Costs

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:01 +0000

XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio subscription costs vary and are changing though recent promotions.

XM Satellite Radio Subscription

If you agree to a commitment ranging from two to five years and prepay you can lower your effective monthly charge to as low as $7.48.

XM Satellite Radio Subscription costs are a monthly service where the charge is $9.99.

Adding up to four additional receivers only costs $6.99 each, per month. Certain special channels cost a little more for your satellite radio subscription cost, for example, Playboy Radio, a premium service, is an additional $2.99 per month. Commercial and Business subscriptions cost $24.99 per month. Business subscriptions are a little more expensive due to additional royalties that must be paid when potentially more people are listening to the station.

Sirius Satellite Radio Subscription

Sirius Satellite radio subscription costs are a monthly service where the charge is $12.95. With a year or 2 year commitment, Sirius offers lower monthly rates.

Check out this hot deal going on right now! For $499.99, your radio is live for life! Sirius is currently offering a pretty good deal on a lifetime subscription that is radio-attached.

With Sirius you can activate as many as three additional radios for $6.99 each per month. Business subscriptions are $24.99 per month.

Satellite radio subscription cost is based on the number of stations that you have access to any the amount of extras that you add. Adding special services can increase your satellite radio subscription.

About The Author

Scott Fish is the owner of Top Satellite Radio which is a resource for consumers seeking the history and facts about satellite radio. We also sell electronics related to Satellite Radio.
Scott fish is the Owner of Satellite Radio Receivers Sirius and XM Reviews

http://www.TopSatelliteRadio.com | Quick Access: http://www.TopSatRadio.com

sf@topsatelliteradio.com

Wireless Network Hammerin’

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 12:01:00 +0000

The wireless network in my house went haywire. It worked on three PCs, one had a horrible connection, and one can’t connect. Between Hubby and me, we spent a lot of time researching and trying to figure out the problem. We narrowed down the possibilities few by doing tests. Hubby is the network king in our house and I learned a bit in working with him. In fact, I solved the problem… temporarily.

I believe the wireless on the router is bad. It works fine when we hook miles of cable to it (I’ve tripped over them, knocked things down, and chased after a toddler who grabbed one.). I’m tired of looking at the cables, so we’re contacting the maker of this router as well as hunting for deals for a new wireless router with g (as in 802.11g).

Here are some of the tricks and troubleshooting tips I’ve learned in playing with the router:

Look at how many computers can connect and how many can’t. This tells you a story. If all of them don’t work, then the problem is most likely the router itself. Maybe it needs a simple hard reset. Try a soft reset first (turning it off and back on). If that doesn’t do it, do a hard reset following the instructions for your router. Mine required holding the reset button while turning it off and back on and not letting go until about a minute after turning it back on.

If no computer wirelessly connects to the network, check to see if the router still works by connecting to it with a cable. If it works here, you know the router is still alive. It doesn’t necessarily mean the wireless is dead. Obviously, if your router is strictly wireless and not dual like mine (cable and wireless), this won’t work. Instead, you can test by bypassing the router and plugging your LAN cable directly into the DSL/Cable modem.

Do a little pingin’. It could be the ISP is down and not a router problem. Open a command prompt window (Start > Run > type “cmd” > hit Enter) and type “ipconfig /all” and you should get a response back with your IP address, subnet mask, default gateway and other items. What you are looking for is the IP address of the “Default Gateway.”

At the command line, type “ping XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX” where XXX = the numbers listed as the Default Gateway. For example, my default gateway address is 192.168.1.1, therefore, I would type “ping 192.168.1.1″ If you get a response, then your router is working. Next, try to ping a site. You don’t need to know the IP address. You can ping by Web address. For example, type “ping www.marqui.com” and you should get a response with the ping times from an IP address. That IP address is Marqui’s. How did your computer know this? Through DNS (Domain Naming Service), but that’s another topic. If you can’t ping a site on the Internet, the problem is most likely with your ISP.

Have a cordless phone? Some cordless phones disconnect wireless connections while you’re using it. Stupid, but it happens. I have one that does just that and another that doesn’t mess with it. Aggravating. I wanted to return the phone, but it was a “no return” phone. If I had known it would mess with the wireless, I would have never bought it. So I learned that the next time I buy a phone, to check to see if it will kill the wireless or not.

Ensure configuration is correct. Check the router’s manual to complete this step.

Try changing the channel. If that doesn’t work, change the SSID (aka name) and the channel. If your wireless’ SSID is “Wireless” and is on channel 5. First, try changing the channel to 11 or anything other than 5. If that doesn’t work, then create a new SSID like “Router” and pick a channel, any channel. It never hurts to reboot the router after each change, although when making changes to it, it resets itself. This step is what got our network working again.

The process for changing it depends on your router. For mine, all I had to do is enter its IP address (200.200.1.1, for example) in the browser, enter the ID and password, and I am in. It’s similar to a software or application screen. Enter info, select drop-down boxes, and click buttons to change / save.

Another good thing to know is to point your mouse over the wireless icon in the system tray. It provides basic information about your wireless connection. It provides information on the SSID, speed, and strength. The blacked out part in the image is where the SSID is located. Also, get more information by right-clicking on the icon and selecting “View Available Wireless Network” or “Open Network Connections.”

You may have WEP turned on. This secures others from using your wireless because it requires a password. If it’s on, verify each PC has it enabled and the correct password or passphrase.

This is a handful of what you can do. Other options are more detailed and complex. But this is a good start and will help eliminate a majority of possibilities.

Meryl K. Evans is the Content Maven behind meryl’s notes, eNewsletter Journal, and The Remediator Security Digest. She is also a PC Today columnist and a tour guide at InformIT. She is geared to tackle your editing, writing, content, and process needs. The native Texan resides in Plano, Texas, a heartbeat north of Dallas, and doesn’t wear a 10-gallon hat or cowboy boots.

Let’s Talk

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:01:49 +0000

In the eyes of a teenage girl cellular phones are the best invention since boys. My daughter has had a cell phone for awhile now but it wasy a prepaid one. That was getting too costly considering she ran through minutes at an astounding rate. The day she received her unlimited flip phone she was estatic. I don’t think she would have been any happier if she had been presented with a brand new car.

She giggled and squealed with excitement. The pink face plate with kittens on it absolutely delighted her. I calculated her enthusiasm to be a bit ridiculous but cell phones seem to have an almost intoxicating effect on young girls. After plenty of gushing gratitude, my joyful daughter seemed to float on various ring tones the rest of the day. In record time all of her friends had the new phone number and the dialing sequence began - and it hasn’t stopped since.

These cellular providers certainly have it made. Do you have any idea how many adolescent and teenage girls there are in the world - not to mention the other various cell phone users out there? Just like teen girls, cell phones come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You find them everywhere - in shirt pockets, on belt loops, in cars, at the mall, etc.

Time certainly does bring about change. It almost seems like yesterday when my oldest son came home with a marvelous little contraption called a pager. Hmmm…wonder whatever happened to those. It seems technology is moving faster or maybe I’m just getting slower. I just got used to my VCR when out came the DVD. I still haven’t figured out all the features of the digital camera yet. Of course when I can’t figure out how to work my new gadgets I do what most parents do, I just ask the kids. It seems they’re born with built in knowledge of the tech gen.

Oh and my daughter? She’s up to her ears in text messages and voice mail but it’s all good - at least until the bill arrives.

Darlene Zagata is a freelance writer and columnist for the print publication Moon Shadows Magazine. She is also the author of “Aftertaste: A Collection of Poems” and “The Choosing.” Her work has been published extensively both online and in print. For more information visit her website at http://darlenezagata.tripod.com or contact Darlene at darzagata@yahoo.com

Free Camera With Cell Phone

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:01:35 +0000

Free camera with cell phone - excellent deal.

Getting a free camera with cell phone is an excellent deal. Especially nowadays when camera cell phones are getting less and less expensive. You can get your free camera with cell phone once you look through all the promotions offered by cellular phone service providers like AT&T Wireless, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint, and others. You can at least get a good discount on your purchase. Even though you might have to sign up for a one or two year contract, it is still an excellent deal.

Free camera with cell phone - pick the best one.

When you are looking for a free camera with cell phone, make sure to check all the features of both the camera and the cellular phone, so you can pick the best one available. The camera should be excellent quality. You should be able to store large number of pictures. Also other good features include the ability to send or email you pictures to somebody’s phone or email, or the ability to store the pictures as wallpaper.

Free camera with cell phone - save money.

The camera cell phone has many benefits when you purchase one for full price, but when you are getting a free camera with cell phone, that will make you even happier. You are saving money not only on purchase of the regular camera but also on the cell phone camera itself. And with the right cellular service plan and right cellular phone services you are definitely a winner.

Free camera with cell phone - enjoy.

With your free camera with cell phone you can take picture anywhere and anytime. If you want to store something as a memory, your camera cell phone is probably always with you. Just take it out and you are ready. One click of a button and you can send the picture to your friends or family.

Visit http://www.camera-cell-phones-2u.com

Web Conferencing - Finding a Service Provider that Meets Your Needs

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:01:34 +0000

With the vast amount of service providers that are available today, it’s not always easy to find the one that best fills the bill for your particular web conferencing needs. Each one claims to be the biggest, best or least expensive, and all will try to convince you that their particular plan is the one that makes the most sense for your business. Sometimes you’ll be the victim of a hard sell by those who are skilled in the art of diverting the attention away from your questions and, before you know it, the focus is on a set of features that you may have no use for at all.

In other cases, there are hidden fees that are peppered throughout the contract which you might not readily notice until you’ve fallen into the buy-in trap. How, then, are you supposed to find the best service provider to handle your web conferencing? Here are some handy tips that you should keep in mind when you go shopping for such services.

Multiple Location Participants - If you have key people in distant lands that will need to come into the web conferencing loop, remember to keep this in mind when shopping for a web conferencing package. If a service provider attempts to impose strict limitations on this type of scenario, then this isn’t the one for you.

Compare Prices - Since most web conferencing providers utilize the same software or equipment from the same manufacturers, it stands to reason that the pricing structures should be similar. If one or more of them come in way above the mark, this should tell you something about the integrity of the company. In short, move on to another provider.

Review Pricing Plans - Though many providers require to be paid on a rate-per-person schedule, there are those who will offer the same web conferencing services for a flat rate. This is ideal for companies with a number of participants. If you’re given the option of paying a flat monthly fee for unlimited web conferences, so much the better.

Investigate the Features Being Offered - Whether your needs include online presentations that don’t need to be interactive, or interactive online meetings/webinars, the right service provider can meet those needs. Check to see what other features are offered, as well, before committing to making a decision.

Many companies, for instance, have the need for features such as multiple presenters, polling and surveys, desktop remote control, live video, online chat with questions and answers, documentation presentation, application sharing, record and playback features and browser sharing. Service providers who don’t offer any of these commonly used features should be put aside in favor of those who are less technologically challenged.

The best approach to taken when shopping for a web conferencing service provider is to go armed with a list of relevant questions and a detailed description of which features are pertinent to your business. Keeping in mind that you may have to investigate a number of providers in order to find the one that best suits your needs, exercise patience and don’t be too quick to jump on the web conferencing bandwagon by choosing one that’s simply popular or has the catchiest advertisements. There are plenty of good providers out there - it’s just a matter of finding the one that has what you need, for the best possible price.

Mike Spencer reviews various business services to help small and home office businesses get the best value for money in communicating with the outside world. Read more about Mikes reviews by his visiting his website here: http://www.web-conference-reviews.com

Three Awesome Ways to Avoid Arguments

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:01:33 +0000

Avoiding an argument no longer has to be an arduous task! “Three Awesome Ways to Avoid Arguments,” offers innovative and effective strategies to introduce calm to even the most argumentative discussion. This checklist is by relationship expert, Fran Briggs.

Three Tips for Avoiding Any Argument

Listen - Listening to your speaker during a heated argument is one of the most challenging things you’ll ever do. Especially when you believe the information is inaccurate or the speaker is speaking to you in a vindictive voice tone. Clear your mind of all distractions and concentrate on information that you don’t already have. Nod your head occasionally to affirm that you are listening. And, always place your need to understand, before your desire to be understood.

Avoid Adding Fuel to the Fire - Eliminate making statements such as: “I’m sorry, but what you’re saying makes absolutely no sense at all.” Or, “If you would just calm down for a minute, maybe I could explain…” Statements like these only intensify the core of frustration or anger. Instead, go “old school.” Bite your tongue when you find yourself tempted to say anything that may be perceived to be condescending.

Flip the Script - OK. This technique requires skills. If your speaker is livid and “lashing out irrationally,” he’s reacting from the right side (the emotional side) of his brain. Aim to alter his emotional state and get him to the other side, as smoothly and quickly as possible. To do this successfully, you must interrupt his current focus and pattern of communication. First, say his name. Then, immediately ask for clarification. People instinctively respond from a slightly calmer emotional state when they hear their own names. Then, with composure, speak numerically. For example:

“Stephen. Let me make sure I understand. You’re saying, number one; when I don’t return your keys to the place where I found them, it irks you to no end. Two, it puts you in a position where you lose 10, 15, 30 minutes of your day - or even more - when I don’t think. And three, you’re asking is it really that difficult to complete one, simple routine. Is that accurate?”

In order to follow the sequence of numbers you just laid out, Stephen has to flip his own script, to the calmer. Why? Because his brain hears numbers! That means, the right side automatically enlists the left side to take over. The left side is the rational side of our brain. It handles numbers, logic and of the like. Stephen is now in a solution-oriented, state of mind.

Fran Briggs ia a Mental Health Resource Specialist and President of The Fran Briggs Companies, an organization dedicated to the empowerment and personal development of schools, communities and corporations around the globe. They specialize in helping others maximize their human potential. For more information or to sign up for your free successzine/newsletter, visit http://www.franbriggs.com

4 Dazzling Midrange Cell Phones

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:01:29 +0000

Your next cell phone can be a stripped down model or contain features virtually unheard of one year ago. Chances are you will select something in between; in any case we are featuring four dazzling midrange flip top cell phones for your examination. Shop, compare, and save!

1. Motorola v810 - If “light” is what you like than at 2.8 oz the Motorola v810 is your champion. Key features include: a 640 x 480 camera phone; built-in speaker phone; color display; text messaging; voice notes; analog roaming; and custom ring tones. If you are looking for Bluetooth capabilities, you will need to look at Motorola’s E815 model instead.

2. Kyocera SE47 - Key features of the SE47 include: a speaker phone; color display; slide-out keypad; custom ring tones; alarm clock; text messaging; and voice notes. The SE47 does not support Bluetooth technology nor does it have an infrared port. It does not come with a camera phone. The SE47 weighs in at 3.3 oz.

3. LG LX5550 - LG’s offering weighs 3.89 oz and is a popular seller for the Chinese company. Chief features of this model include: a speaker phone; voice notes; and text messaging as well as a color display; analog roaming; and custom ring tones. No camera is offered nor does it have Bluetooth capabilities. The LX5550 does not have an infrared port. If Bluetooth technology is important to you then select LG’s PM-325 model instead.

4. Nokia 6019i - Another lightweight contender weighing in at 3.87 oz this Nokia model features a speaker phone; a strong battery; color display; text messaging; voice notes; and custom ring tones. No Bluetooth capabilities; no infrared port. This model does not have a camera phone; purchase a Nokia 6670 or 7280 if you want the camera included.

In all, these four models are proven top sellers in their respective categories. Now all you have to do is find the right cell phone carrier to give you the model and plan that works best for you.

Matthew Keegan is The Article Writer who writes on just about any and every issue imaginable. You can preview samples from his high performing site at http://www.thearticlewriter.com

10 Questions About Cellular Phones Answered

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:01:28 +0000

1. What’s the difference between analog and digital phones?

Analog phones operate on an older and less effective technology. This technology doesn’t scale well and is more costly. Analog service is not compatible with numerous new features. Digital phones are lighter and more compact and have a longer battery life. When you are inside of a calling area the quality is better than analog. Digital phones support new features like caller ID, text messaging or wireless internet services.

2. What is a Dual Band Phone?

A Dual band phone is a phone that can operate on an analog and digital service.

3. What type of battery has the longest life?

Lithium-Ion or Li-Ion batteries have the longest life. They also happen to be the lightest in weight. The two pluses means there is minus attached, which is price. A li-ion battery will always be the most expensive type of battery available.

4. What’s the difference between the Stand-by time and Talk time?

Your phone is in standby mode when your phone is on but you aren’t talking. The power consumption is minimal and the phone can stay in this mode for a longer period of time. When you are using the phone you are using talk time. This consumes battery power at a much quicker rate. Your battery life will be somewhere between talk time and standby time

5. What is a roaming charge?

A roaming charge is when you make a call from outside of your calling area. Your calling area is defined by plan local, regional or national.

6. What are peak and off peak hours?

Peak hours are during the day when the cellular networks are very busy. These minutes are at premium and your plan will typically include the smallest amount of these. If you use more than your allotted peak minutes they will be billed at a much higher rate than off peak minutes. Off peak is the exact opposite of peak time. Each cellular provider has their own definition of off peak.

7. What are anytime minutes?

Anytime minutes are simply put minutes you can use anytime, peak or off peak. On most plans you will use anytime minutes first.

8. Do I pay for the call when someone calls me?

Usually yes. You are billed for the airtime when you receive a call. However some service providers are offering unlimited in network calls.

9. Should I buy a cell phone or look for a free cellular phone?

Free phones generally speaking don’t have the latest features, they are anywhere from 6 to 12 months behind. Also, free cell phones generally come with longer contracts. But, it is still possible to get a great deal on a free cell phone.

10. What to do if you want to upgrade/downgrade or cancel your service plan?

You can usually upgrade to higher plan without any cost. Some may force you to extend your contract for 1 to 2 years from that point. Downgrading your plan is often times not an option and when it is there is usually a penalty or fine.

If you are planning to buy cellular phone visit Wireless Cell Phone Center for the latest news and information.

Make Your Voicemail Greeting More Memorable

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:01:12 +0000

When people call you, what do they hear if they don’t reach you? OK, so it’s probably a voicemail or other messaging system so they can leave you a message and you can call them back. So let’s assume that’s true, and let’s focus on the message you have that people hear when they call your number.

Many people have a plain vanilla greeting, and often you’re not even sure if you reached a human being or just a machine. “Hi, you’ve reached 555-1212. Leave a message.” Who am I calling, and why should I care enough to leave a message with you?

“Hi, this is Phil. Leave a message. I’ll call you back. Thanks.” That’s a little bit better. At least I know I called Phil. Does he check his voicemail often? What if this is an emergency? Is there another way to reach Phil?

“Hi, you’ve reached Phil Gerbyshak. I’m not available to take your call right now, however your call is very important to me. If this call is between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm, please feel free to give me a call at work at 414-555-1212. Otherwise, leave your name, number, a brief message, and your favorite 80s rock bank after the tone, and I’ll call you back as soon as I can. Thanks for calling. Make it a great day!” Hey, now that’s pretty good. There’s another number to reach me at, I let the caller know they’re important to me, I injected some humor into the situation (favorite 80s rock bank, favorite 80s baseball/football/basketball player, you use what works for you), and I closed with energy: “Make it a great day!” I’ll tell you, most people do leave me a message, most laughing by my request for favorite 80s something or other, and then tell me what they need. Then I call them back as soon as I can with the same energy as I have on my voicemail greeting. After all, who wants to talk to someone plain vanilla boring? Not me!

Energy is the key to your voicemail greeting, so practice having energy. Put some alternative methods of reaching you, and you’ll ensure people leave you a message with the information you need to make it a great day!

Variety is also nice. Change your voicmail greeting at least once a month. 12 times a year to change your greeting. That’s not so hard, is it?

Last thing is uniqueness. How many other people can you name who have the same greeting as you? If the answer is more than 1, you’re not being unique enough. Think about this as your signature where people think of you when they hear it. My friends leave me messages that tell me to make it a great day because I’ve added that as my signature to all my voicemail greeting. Feel free to share yours with me by calling 414.640.7445 anytime. Don’t be surprised if I actually answer the phone though!

Phil Gerbyshak leads a team of IT help desk professionals in Milwaukee, WI, and finds that sharing his knowledge is a crucial component in his success as a leader and as a person. Phil’s personal philosophy is paraphrased from Tim Sanders’ fantastic book Love is the Killer App: “Share your knowledge, your network, and your love. The rest will follow.” For more musings by Phil, please go to http://makeitgreat.blogspot.com.

How Do TV, Stereo and Cell Phone Antennas Work

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:01:06 +0000

Basic determination of what antennas are states that they are an electronic part created to transmit or receive radio waves. While the definition of antennas sounds quite simple, the specific job of an antenna can be quite complicated. Antennas are a system involving conductors that are intended to transmit an electromagnetic field and the joint electric current. In place of that situation, if antennas are put into an electromagnetic field, that particular field will bring about an alternating current upon the antennas, and electromagnetic force between its poles.

There are two basic types of antennas with the first type pairing with an electric field of an electromagnetic wave and oftentimes is part of a length of wire that an electric charge moves back and forth. The second type of antenna pairs with the magnetic field of an electromagnetic wave and is usually in the shape of a loop or a coil. If a person were to add additional conducting rods or coils that are referred to as elements as well as variegating their lengths, spacing and course, antennas that have particularly sought after properties can be created. Most of the time people will see antennas that were for use in a comparatively narrow frequency range.

The most common antennas people see is the straight rod on a radio or car that is about a quarter of a wavelength long. These types of antennas are very easy to put together inexpensively and can beam in and receive from all horizontal directions. Antennas are often used for the transmission and reception of radio frequency signals from electronic equipment like televisions and radios that can move over huge areas at the speed of light and move through various non-conducting walls.

There are many different factors that can affect antennas and how they perform that can be changed during the design of a particular antenna. The factors that can affect antennas are resistance, resonant frequency, amplification, regulation or radiation pattern, polarization, ratio and information measure. A transmit antenna can also have a maximum power rating and a receiving antenna can have changing noise rejection attributes. Whatever the internal workings of antennas might be, without an antenna most of the world would not be receiving much of the information and entertainment that it is today.

About The Author: Kevin Lynch is the owner of nu Audio and My Cell Phones n’ Plans websites, which have tons of resources with a variety of information, news, blogs and more.

Satellite TV Comparison Shopping Made Easy!

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:01:29 +0000

DirecTV vs. Dish Network and Satellite TV vs. Cable TV

With so many satellite TV providers competing for your business, how do you know who to choose from? Let’s take a look at two of the more popular satellite TV service providers, DirecTV and Dish Network for an apple to apples comparison.

Dish Network

Dish Network Satellite is the nation’s second largest provider of satellite TV. Does that mean that Dish Network offers better service? Not necessarily.

Dish Network does provide most of the satellite TV resources other providers do, including a satellite TV guide, free satelite TV dishes, free dish network deals and more. Dish Network also offers customers the option of purchasing HDTV equipment and service packages, giving viewers access to 8 high definition channels, a bonus for consumers with high definition TV sets.

In addition Dish Network does have a slightly larger channel selection that DirecTV which is a benefit to some customers.

Here is a summary of the major services offered by Dish Network:

More than 180 channels
HDTV for up to 8 channels
More than 30 sports dedicated networks including subscription options to NBA League Pass, and NHL Center Ice
Foreign Language Programming in many languages
More than 103 local channels available
Monthly cost generally less than $100
Available in all 50 states

DirecTV

DirecTV is the nation’s largest provider. Like Dish Network, DirecTV is available in all 50 states. DirecTV’s claim to fame is that they offer more channels dollar for dollar than other satellite TV providers.

So how do you know whether DirecTV or Dish Network is right for you? Let’s look at some of the specifics of DirecTV. DirecTV does offer fewer overall channels than Dish Network satellite (but not much fewer) but it does feature exclusive sports packages including NFL Sunday Ticket, which are a bonus for avid sports fans.

DirecTV also offers a high definition package including four feature high definition channels. DirecTV also offers many of the same freebies Dish Network does, including free Direct TV receivers, free satelite TV dishes and satellite TV resources.

A summary of the benefits of DirecTV is as follows:

More than 150 channels
More than 30 sports networks including special and exclusive sports package deals
Foreign language programming in Spanish and Chinese
Up to 8 HDVT channels
Approximately 126 local channels
Monthly costs less than $100
Available in all 50 states

DirecTV or Dish Network Satellite

So, with an apple to apples comparison, you can see that you get most of the same benefits regardless of which provider you choose. There are some subtle differences between the two, Dish Network offers slightly more overall channels and a larger foreign language programming selection. DirecTV offers some exclusive sports networks and greater access to local channels. DirecTV Tivo is an added benefit for DirecTV consumers, which providers channel recording capability to consumers.

Which provider you select may depend on your location. Some may offer better deals or service in some areas than others.

Satellite TV vs. Cable TV

The question of satellite TV vs. Cable TV is an age old one. How do you know which to choose?

Thus the two also deserve a comparison.

Cable TV

Equipment - Requires a TV set top box in order to access digital services
Transmission - Usually Analog but consumers have the option of upgrading to digital for a higher premium. Analog channels don’t convert to digital in this situation.
Programming - Supports more than 260 channels and offers options such as pay per view, where viewers can buy movies for a small fee. Usually cable TV offers more local channel options than satellite. Offers fewer HDTV services
Pricing - Cable is usually more expensive, in part due to additional costs added onto monthly premium, which may include fees, taxes, pay per view and equipment

Satellite TV

Equipment - Requires use of satellite dish and receivers. Many providers offer free satelite TV systems, free satelite TV dishes to entice customers.
Transmission - Satellite TV services are all digital, which consumers usually translate to mean better quality reception. TV reception can be subject to interference during inclement weather, but this happens with cable service too.
Programming - Usually offers 200 or more channels, including more international and sports channels than cable. High definition channels are more easily accessed through satellite
Pricing - Satellite TV can be less expensive than cable particularly if equipment is thrown in for free. Local channel packages are usually extra with satellite, but over time the expense is less.
So which do you choose?

For many it’s a matter of price, and satellite TV seems to be at an advantage here. Both cable and satellite offer similar channel line ups, though if you plan on watching a lot of foreign or international films you might opt for a satellite provider such as Dish Network or DirecTV.

That said most consumers just end up getting whichever is convenient at the time they are setting up home. No matter your choice, you’ll end up with decent service and a wide channel range which is all most consumers are looking for in the end. Buyer beware, you should know that cable TV fans are very strictly cable, and satellite TV fans very strictly satellite.

You could literally cause an argument between two otherwise friendly neighbors simply by asking them to rate satellite TV vs. cable. That said, you’ll probably find that once you make your selection, you too begin an avid supporter of one vs. the other.

About The Author:
Antigone Arthur is a successful freelance writer with 10 years of professional experience providing consumers with informative articles on such topics as DirectTV vs Dish Network, Free Satellite TV Systems, and Satellite System Tv.

Cellular Phone Service

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:01:14 +0000

Cellular phone service - pick the one you like.

You can select the cellular phone service of your choice from one of the many cellular phone companies like AT&T, Sprint PCS, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless, Cingular Wireless, and many more. When choosing a cellular phone service from one of the companies you will have access to a range of cellular phone plans. You can pick the best services by evaluating cellular companies’ features, customer service, voice quality, ease of operation, coverage, cellular phones, additional services like instant messenger, and many more.

Cellular phone service - Coverage

Coverage is very important to consider when selecting a cellular phone service. You cellular phone plan may allow you to call nationally or may offer just regional coverage. You may not be able to use your cellular phone when you travel somewhere if you service plan doesn’t offer excellent coverage. The signal could be weak in some places or inside the buildings.

Cellular phone service - SMS

SMS (Text Messaging) is a useful feature that can be offered when you select a cellular phone service. It is not offered by all companies or you may have to pay a fee to use it. Look for the promotions to find the SMS service included in the sign up package.

Cellular phone service - International Calling

If you are doing business with global companies based in other countries, you might want to consider a cellular phone service that offers international calling. This service is expensive and you may be able to get a better rate with some calling cards. So consider all pros and cons and make a decision about adding international calling to your cellular plan. International roaming is another service that you might want to take into account.

Visit http://www.camera-cell-phones-2u.com

XM Radio and Roadway Safety thru Satellite Relays in Tunnels

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:01:06 +0000

Satellite Radio is great for us consumers. It gives us lots of choices for news, sports, comedy, music, weather and so much more. It works almost everywhere except in steep canyon roads and tunnels. Since it does not work in tunnels, this might cause a problem in an emergency. Television and normal radios have the public broadcast system to alert us of emergency; XM Radio can do the same. Only issue is that none of these will work in a highway tunnel.

Recently I drove thru the Boston Tunnel after traveling up the East Coast. I noticed after going thru several tunnels along the way that the XM Radio cut out. Of course I was not surprised as it is hard to get a signal while underground from a satellite. Yet each time I entered a tunnel, I happened to be listening to a really great song on the 80’s station. The Baltimore Tunnel was not an issue, there was no traffic and I sailed thru; no big deal. In New York the tunnel took a little while to travel thru due to the traffic, but still a few extra minutes and then the radio was as good as gold again. The real issue was in Boston and the traffic was fierce. I spent nearly 20 minutes in traffic while in the Big Dig, without the radio and had my CD collection in the back and could not get up to get it. This led me to believe there must be a better way. XM Radio has a slight time delay so you can go under highway over passes without cutting into your music or news on any of the over 200 channels. However, when going thru long tunnels or in canyons you often miss the signal, as you do not have a direct line of sight to the satellite.

What I propose is one of two options. A.) We allow government agencies to tap into all possible channels of all satellite radio and regular radio stations to play pre-recorded information or B.) We put relays at the ends of such tunnels, which allow all satellite radio users to pick up the signal in the tunnel. If we do option “A” then the government agencies license free of charge the use of those signal frequencies with a caveat for a quick one or two-line commercial along with a public service announcement for instance:

“XM Radio brings you the following statement from the Great State of MerryLand; While traveling in the Baltimore Tunnel please remain in your lane and drive a constant speed of 45-miles per hour when traffic permits. Be observant of drivers around you at all times. If you see anything unusual be sure to call in the information to the Maryland Highway Patrol. Our alert status today is elevated and we rely on you to be our eyes and ears out there. If you see suspicious behavior please call. And thank you for making Maryland a great place, please drive nicely and be courteous at all times, thank you. This has been a public service announcement from XM Radio and the Maryland Highway Patrol and Toll Transit Authority”

If we go with option “B” then we need to allow the Authorities to break into the radio programming while in the tunnel during heavy traffic, Amber Alerts, Fugitive Watch or during heightened alert. Think on this.

“Lance Winslow” - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs