Saturday, July 31, 2010

Clippers Pull Plug On Dunleavy's Coaching Career

By Ross Everett

In one of the stranger front office shakeups in recent NBA history, the Los Angeles Clippers have 'relieved' Mike Dunleavy of his head coaching duties effective immediately. He'll remain on board as the Clippers' general manager, and both he and the team cited the demands of the forthcoming trade deadline and free agent market as a catalyst for the change. Dunleavy leaves as the most successful head coach in the team's less than distinguished history. With the Clippers, however, that's not saying a whole lot.

Not surprisingly, there is much speculation as to the back story behind the move. Some with knowledge of the situation suggest that Clippers' owner Donald Sterling wanted to fire Dunleavy altogether, but relented due to the $5 million the team will owe him in the final year of his contract next year. More recently, a bizarre rumor has been circulating that Sterling has approached Isiah Thomas about taking over Dunleavy's coaching position and becoming team president. While Isiah would bring a level of fabulousness never before seen on the Clippers' sidelines, he hasn't had much success either as a coach or executive in the NBA.

Dunleavy issued this statement, playing along with the team's insistence that the decision to give up coaching was 'mutual':

"I've come to the conclusion that this is the ideal time for me to direct my efforts toward the many personnel opportunities that lie before us, such as the trade market, the draft and the free-agent process. We fully expect to be active and productive on all those fronts."

Team President Andy Roeser sounded a similar tone:

"We fully agree with Mike that this is the right time to make this change. It just seems clear that the team needs a fresh voice and we hope that our players will respond in a positive way.As we approach the trade deadline, the NBA draft and the upcoming free-agent period, our team is very well positioned from a salary-cap standpoint. Mike's experienced input will be vitally important as we continue to develop our young talented nucleus and shape our team's future."

Dunleavy's agent Warren LeGarie didn't deviate from the script:

"This is something we've been contemplating for some time. There's a shelf life to coaching sometimes. So you constantly have to keep measuring whether [the team's inconsistency] is because of injuries, because of you, or something else. And at some point you have to make a judgment call about what's best for the team, and that's what Mike did."

The Clippers have lost 7 of their last 10 games to fall to 21-29 on the year. They're 17 games behind the Western Conference leading Los Angeles Lakers and 8 games out of the final playoff spot. The schedule won't get any easier for the Clippers over the next week, as they host the red hot Utah Jazz on Tuesday and head into the All Star Break with a game on the road against the Golden State Warriors.

About the Author:

Friday, July 30, 2010

Nice Motel In The Heart Of Paris

By Braden Roth

Hotel Muguet has exquisitely crafted interiors and architecture, and the hotel itself has a wonderful "family" feeling to it. But smokers we warned, the hotel does not allow smoking, so it's better to look for other options if smoking is something you can't let go off.

The rustic Hotel Muguet Paris has a beautiful, warm dcor, and also a wonderful family spirit. The entire hotel is non-smoking; so, if you are a smoker, you might want to look for accommodation elsewhere.

"Muguet" is a flower, also called the lily of the valley and to the French, a symbol of happiness and joy. So it is quite evident why the hotel is named after this, as it strives to be the epitome of happiness for the visitors.

Hotel Muguet has a host of services it offers. An elevator connecting the various parts of the hotel, free Wi-Fi, a luggage room and fax at the reception area are but some of the features in addition to air-conditioning and safes provided in every room, which by the way are sound-proof.

Guests can also take vantage of certain facilities available at the reception like direct-dial telephones, satellite television, and Internet. The hotel has a separate room for laundry and ironing the clothes.

The Hotel Muguet Paris is located near the Notre Dame Cathedral. The cathedral of all French cathedrals, which stands at the south-eastern tip of Ile de la Cit, is a model of French medieval art.

This monument has been of prime importance in the past. It has inspired poets, musicians and other musicians, the likes of whom include names from Franois Villon to Victor Hugo. The monument is an integral part of the multi-faced history of France, having links with religion as well as art. And the success of the musical comedy "Notre-Dame de Paris" by Luc Plamandon and Richard Cocciante speaks of its timeless character.

Hotel Muguet Paris is also quite close to the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most symbolic monuments of Paris. Built in puddled iron, it lies on the Champ-de-Mars and measures 324 meters (with its aerial). It bears the name of the person responsible for its construction, the engineer, Gustave Eiffel. The craziest building ever, today, it is the symbol of Paris and is also one of the most visited sites in the city.

About the Author:

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Why Must Campers Bring Along A Marmot Helium Sleeping Bag?

By Brandon Dixon

You might have trekked the mountain paths or the thick forests. You might have had to scramble up the rocky mountains. Or may be crossed a fast running stream. At the end of the day, you are dead tired. All you are thinking of now is the cozy warm comforts of your sleeping bag. And you know that you have to get up early the next day for yet another arduous trek ahead no less exciting. The sleeping bag simply becomes your heavenly bliss.

A synthetic bag is definitely not as expensive as a down fill bag. It is also much easier to clean up the synthetic bag. But still do you have a sleeping bag that keeps the cold out? If the floor is cement, it is going to be cold. But if it is wooden it is warmer. An open space or a hut means that you are going to be under the mercy of the chill winds. Do you have a sleeping bag that has the insulation that you need? You should have checked whether the choice of the sleeping bag is that best suit your needs.

The synthetic bag offers good insulation. The insulation also lasts longer. The down bags offer more warmth than the synthetic fill ones and are best suited for winter. These are also lighter. The down bags are good for taking along on a long expedition. But if the weather is wet, the down fill bags lose their insulation. You must take good care of the down filled bags so that they are not damaged even though they are more durable and long lasting. The synthetic bags are less expensive.

Sleeping bags comes in the more spacious rectangular shape and the mummy shape. The mummy shaped bags have the best insulation than a rectangle shaped one but lesser space. The rectangular shaped bags can be folded and packed. But the mummy shaped bag has to be rolled and packed. The helium marmot helium 15 sleeping bag is ultra-light best suited for long travels such as mountaineering.

Sleeping bag should be chosen keeping in mind how long you will be traveling and the weather and environment that you will have to face. It is important to ascertain whether the climate is wet or dry. You will be happy that you did all these before choosing a sleeping bag.

About the Author:

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Buying A Home In Altos Del Maria Panama Is Pleasing And Dollar Friendly

By Tyler Ramos

Scattered in the hills and valleys of Altos del Maria in Panama are home sites and homes for sale offering dream views of rushing waterfalls, lakes and oceans, and volcanic mountains in the distance. Much like a national park, you can hike along trails and take photos of sloths and monkeys and wonderful birds in the trees. You might even see a yellow frog.

Altos del Maria is a 7000+ acre, secure, gated mountain community being developed for residential home sales. The developers have made sure all the comforts of urban life are there: ample water and electricity, cell and land-line phone service, satellite TV, Internet service, golf courses, swimming pools, and a heliport for starters. You will also find good roads that take you easily to and from Panama City, which is an hour and a half away. Closer by are the townships of Bejuco and Sora. It is also an easy drive to wonderful, warm beaches should you need to escape the cool mountains.

Local lore has it the name Panama was given by the natives, and there are several versions of what it means. One version says Panama means many fish, another many butterflies. Still another version credits the name of a local tree as the origin. Word association might bring up the words hat and canal with Panama. They are all very appropriate words that perhaps worked some magic to unlock the secret of Altos del Maria and its unspoiled, natural beauty.

A long and profitable relationship building the Panama Canal with the US has resulted in many Panamanians speaking English in addition to Spanish, their national language. Panamanians have a reputation of being friendly. US dollars exchange at a rate of one-to-one, and are acceptable, legal tinder in Panama. Reports indicate that the dollar goes further for retirees in Panama. A monthly income of twelve-hundred US dollars buys one a very nice lifestyle there.

Panama City has all the perks expected from a big city: good medical services, good restaurants, lots of things to see and do. The Panamanian economy remains stable in large part because of the Panama Canal. The US and Panama continue work together on a canal project referred to as the Third Set of Locks, to allow more ships through and maintain economic stability.

The Panamanian government pensionado program provides great retirement perks. Retirees receive discounts on housing, medicines, entertainment, and travel. To receive the benefits, a pensionado application and visa must be secured from non-Panamanians. If you do not sign up for the pensionado program, you can still retire in Altos del Maria.

Panama is the end of Central America, right before Columbia in South America. Altos del Maria is in the same narrow section of Panama as Panama City, but on the west side. The elevation of the development ranges from 1,476 to 3,608 feet above sea level. Some areas of Altos del Maria allow vistas of both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The temperature is an ever-moderate 75 degrees F.

Developers in Altos del Maria are selling sites for building a custom home. Or if you prefer, you can choose a house that is already built. There are various lot sizes and elevations available, depending upon your budget and preferences.

About the Author:

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

A Powerful Synopsis Of The Epic Movie The Lord Of The Rings The Two Towers

By Shelia Beard

If you are looking at the book The Lord of the Rings The Two Towers and are feeling a little overwhelmed by how thick it is, you are not alone. Many people who have read The Hobbit and The Fellowship of The Rings have found that some portions are hard to get through. However, as it links together the first and third books, it is important for you to read since it answers many questions and provides information you need to make the third book, The Return of the King, make sense.

The book is important but is often difficult for people to get through for a number of reasons. The plot tends to have patches of intense action which are interspersed through long periods of travel. Because of this, many people find that they tend to skip over the rich descriptions of the landscape through which the characters travel in order to concentrate on the action scenarios.

The 2002 screen adaptation of the book tends to make these slower portions more interesting. This is because you are able to see the landscape and it makes it feel more real and immediate than reading it may. Text can be hard to follow for some people but the visuals developed by Peter Jackson and his crew tend to reach out and draw you in more completely than you might ever imagine. The movie uses extensive make-up, elaborate sets and computer generated imagery to make the sensation of being in Middle Earth complete. Even people who have read the book will find they experience scenes such as the siege at Helm's Deep more deeply and will truly feel that they are in King Theoden's hall as Gandalf faces down Grima Wormtongue in order to free the Rohirrim from tyranny.

Many people miss the reference to the two towers. The first belongs to Saruman. He is a wizard who appears first in the Fellowship of the Ring. Although we are aware that he has sided with the enemy, the extent of his treachery becomes obvious as we see him creating fierce creatures known as Uruk-Hai in the caves below his tower. The second tower is that occupied by Sauron himself.

The Fellowship was broken at the end of the first movie due to the attempted theft of the Ring from Frodo by Boromir. The movie is split into two different sub-plots. The first is the travels of Frodo and his companion Sam and the second is the travels of the remainder of the Fellowship. The companions are further separated due to events which occur during the book, and this gives us the opportunity to be introduced to many of the different cultures and races in Middle Earth.

In the book, it is difficult to jump back and forth between the different parts of the Fellowship. The movie does this well and also allows us to get to know other important characters as well. It makes it more interesting for the audience to see the bravery of Eowyn of Rohan, the cowardice of Golum and other pivotal characters.

There are many fantastic scenes in this movie such as the Battle of Helm's Deep. This battle takes place when the humans of Rohan take shelter in a stronghold which then comes under siege. An overwhelming force attacks them and it is only the arrival of elven warriors which allows the humans to survive. That in itself is miraculous as we learn that no elf has fought with a human since they last battled Sauron a thousand years earlier.

Both the movie and the book have an important role to play in the overall trilogy. Peter Jackson's version keeps the viewer riveted and the visual scenes of travelling keep the interest level up more than the book tends to do.

About the Author:

Monday, July 26, 2010

See The Instant Classic Film Fight Club

By Kathy Hendrix

If you haven't seen it yet, Fight Club was, in fact, one of the most culturally and artistically important films of the last ten or twenty years. Just as movies like Pulp Fiction and Goodfellas started the decade off with a bang, Fight Club finished it off with an even bigger one. It's definitely one of the must download movies of the last thirty years or so.

The story follows an unnamed narrator portrayed by Ed Norton. There's a lot of "Office Space" type humor as he disparages his corporate white collar job, but there's an ugliness to it here, a darkness not present in Office Space. The movie is very deep and brooding and twisted, while at the same time sarcastic and nonchalant about the whole thing.

The narrator meets Tyler Durden, and the rest is history. Durden is a character who is completely free of the boundaries of society placed on most people. You know Kramer, from Seinfeld? He's kind of like that. Just, imagine how dangerous, frightening, and at the same time, inspiring, Kramer would be if you took him out of the sitcom setting and put him into a world where his actions could result in serious consequences.

Durden serves as the heart of the film in more ways than one. He and the narrator found the Fight Club, a get together where men can come and, well, fight each other. They let out all their frustrations and try to remember what it means to be a man by pounding their fists into one another. The movie follows the club as it grows into something more.

From there, it grows into a cultural movement, and a dangerous one, at that. It's fascinating seeing just how far it goes. It shows that there's a lot of rage and anger out there. It doesn't seem that far fetched that so many people would catch on to the ideas Durden puts forth, and while parts of the movie are outlandish, this part is not.

The ending is really something. Since then, it's become sort of cliche to end with a big twist about who's who, but at the time, it was really a new idea and it worked really well. A little gimmicky, maybe not even necessary to the purposes of the film, but it was really a surprise when you saw it the first time.

Ed Norton has since gone on to do a lot of... Well, some people call it Oscarbait. He does a lot of movies that are more, you know, "indie", and he's controversial, not all directors enjoy working with him. However, in Fight Club, he really gives the performance his all, creating a character who is both an everyman and a completely unique individual, and the perfect contrast to Tyler Durden. Pitt as Durden is every bit as capable, and turns in one of his best performances.

Love it or hate it, this movie, as shocking, grotesque and violent as it may be, is one of the most influential of the last twenty years, and at the very least, deserves its due respect.

About the Author:

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Can You Save Money On Luxury Travel?

By Bruce Hoover

The Benefits of Luxury Travel is something that every person should have the privilege of experiencing. For those fortunate enough to be able to partake in this type of activity there are several websites available in order to provide assistance. This type of travel is what you make it and these websites are there to make it everything you hope for.

There are many websites on the internet today that can allow you easy access to these types of extravagant luxury travel. In order to partake in these websites you must be a member on their elite group. One of the most high quality sites available is the Weekly Vacations for Less.

This particular website is easy to maneuver around and will cater to your specific needs. There are several features that make this website appealing. These features include: total security of personal information, and all inclusive vacation booking capabilities.

Luxury vacations, no matter what they end up consisting of specifically, are taken for similar reasons from people of all social classes. These reasons tend to consist of de-stressing their lives, getting away from every life life, as well as spending more quality time with those we love. These common features that we can all relate to are the most common reasons that a person will considering taking a vacation.

All-on-packages are an added convenience that this website provides to its members. Within these packages are special rates on different airlines, hotels, resorts, as well as activities. This is a nice feature as it makes your vacation come together with ease. The website will make sure that all of these features coordinate with one another.

Overall, the benefits of luxury travel can greatly improve your everyday life. This type of travel can help to clear your head of any stress you may be experiencing and to get a better view on how to handle things. It is also a nice way in which to catch up with your loved ones that you may not always get to spend as much time with as you would like.

Since this type of luxury travel should be carefree you should not have to worry about everything coming together in the end. This is where the websites that arrange all of this for you come into play. While it may be a small added fee, its opportunity cost to you in the end is far less than the headache of organizing all the details of your regular trips yourself.

About the Author:

Saturday, July 24, 2010

A Review Of Blind Fury

By Leo Heath

They call Rutger Hauer the European Paul Newman for his blue eyes, but the European Christopher Walken might be a little more accurate. Hauer is an actor equally adept at playing both heroes and villains, and brings a touch each to each. So when he plays a hero, there's an odd, sinister air about it, and when he's a villain, there's a strangely likable quality there. Blind Fury is one of the classic action movie downloads for this reason, amongst others.

The story follows a Vietnam veteran who was abandoned by his old buddy during the war in a moment of cowardice. He lost his eyesight and learned how to use a samurai sword to defend himself before returning to the United States, and he's on a mission to find the man that left him for dead. Not for revenge, but to forgive him.

Along the way he picks up the man's son in Miami, Florida, and escorts him to meet his father in Las Vegas, Nevada, who has gotten into some trouble with the local gangsters and hoods. Their quest winds up being surprisingly heart warming and moving, which is nice, considering that it really didn't need to deliver any more than some action and laughs.

Hauer really has to compete for the audience's attention alongside the rest of the cast, who are all priceless. Slag is really a big part of what makes the cast so funny. Slag, played by Randall Tex Cobb, is one of the all time funniest eighties badguys. The way he meets his come uppance is really fitting and will leave you with a smile on your face.

The movie is really one of the best of the eighties in terms of action flicks. It really captures what the era was all about. Along the way, there's also some really good storytelling as the film deals with issues of friendship and abandonment.

Ninja legend Sho Kosugi shows up, all of a sudden and out of nowhere, as a hired sword just so we can have a really great fight scene between him and Hauer. There are really a lot of great hired badguys in the film, providing a lot of laughs and great fight scenes.

You'll probably love the two redneck brothers who are constantly nagging each other and fighting, providing the real comedic drive of the movie. Sort of like throwing Abbot and Costello into the middle of an action flick.

The movie really does sum up everything that was great about the eighties action comedy flicks. The eighties were a great time for funny, exciting, weird, and imaginative action flicks, and they just don't make movies like these anymore. It's really too bad, because there was something really cool about these style of movies.

About the Author:

Friday, July 23, 2010

An Overview Of 12 Angry Men

By Theodore William

12 Angry Men was first written as a play by Reginald Rose then made into a movie in 1957 starring Henry Fonda. This riveting story begins in the midst of a jury deciding on a first degree murder charge. The setting is New York City. A teenage Puerto Rican boy from the inner city is charged with murdering his father. The judge has instructed the jury that they must come to unanimous decision. And if they all vote guilty, there will be a mandatory death sentence and the defendant will go to the electric chair.

There are twelve all white, male jurors. They are placed in a small, hot room after spending four days listening to testimony during the murder trial. None of these men can relate to the defendant due to their own personal biases. Throughout the story, they address each other based on their jury numbers.

The jurors spend several uncomfortable hours arguing over the facts of the case. Most of them are content with a guilty verdict. But for one juror, the stakes are too grave to rush into a verdict of convenience. Juror number 8 decides to dissent from the popular opinion and persuade his fellow jurors to see past their particular views. And in doing so, reasonable doubt settles into the minds of these men.

The jurors each bring their own personal experiences and biases to the table which make coming to a unanimous decision very difficult. To most, the evidence appears to be overwhelming. Neighbors heard a fight between the son and father. During the trial, a witness said he heard the son threaten to kill his father.

This thought provoking story has the audience examine the deep set prejudices based on fear and ignorance we hold against one another as a society. These men, all white, must decide the fate of a poor, uneducated Puerto Rican teenage boy. Many cannot relate to his situation, some display total indifference to his fate. Not only is this defendant on trial but so is the American Justice system as the story moves on to explore the weaknesses judicial in the system.

We begin to realize that these men are angry, fearful and culturally bias and their views are tainting the outcome of the trial. Juror 8 knows that the others may in fact carry out a miscarriage of justice if he doesn't convince them to see past their views. He stands up for the defendant and encourages the others to take a closer look at the facts of the case.

Juror number eight, comes to the defense of the teen imploring the others to put their own personal biases aside and really examine the facts of the case. He helps them to see that all of the evidence is circumstantial. The murder weapon is a common pocket knife, that he even pulls out of his pocket.

Juror number 8 is also included in the mindset of 12 Angry Men. He also has issues he must address in order to make a fair and just decision. Juror 8 helps the others to see past their misguided views and see that this is a young man deserving of a fair verdict. Originally the first vote was eleven for guilty and juror number eight being the only dissenting vote. Through his careful analysis and sound arguments with the other jurors, he is able to convince them to change their vote. His persistence for justice saved a life.

About the Author:

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Saskatchewan Survives Hamilton Comeback In Wild CFL Affair

By Ross Everett

It was just a week ago that the Saskatchewan Roughriders blew a 22-0 first half CFL lead to the Edmonton Eskimos en route to a 38-33 loss. On Sunday afternoon, it looked for a moment like history was repeating itself. The Hamilton Tiger Cats would tie the score at 23-23 early in the fourth quarter before the hosts pulled it out with a late touchdown and field goal to win 33-23.

After the game, Roughriders coach Ken Miller talked about the importance of not blowing another big CFL lead:

"We didn't want to do that again, "In the first half in particular it was sensational. In the third quarter we gave up some points ... but overall our defence played pretty good."

Hamilton head coach Marcel Bellefeuille indicated that there was no moral victory in coming close:

"You've got to play 60 minutes to win in the CFL, you can't play 30 minutes."

An important component of the Roughriders victory was their improved rushing attack. Wes Cates becoming the first Roughrider to rush for more than 100 yards this season as he finished with 117. After the game, Cates spoke of his accomplishment:

"It was not as much for myself but more for the naysayers. Yeah I needed a big game like that to stop the rumours and stop people from talking bad about me."

Saskatchewans defensive line also starred, completely shutting down the Hamilton rushing attack. The Roughriders limited the Tiger-Cats runners to a mere 31 yards on the ground, easily improving upon their previous best performance of 114 rushing yards against.

Kevin Glenn replaced Hamilton starting QB Quinton Porter after the first quarter and finished the game 12-for-27 with 183 yards. Porter was 1-for-5 for only three yards before he was yanked.

The Tiger-Cats now have a bye week in which to try and regroup before they return to action August 29th on the road against the Edmonton Eskimos. Saskatchewan will head east to take on the CFL best Montreal Alouettes on Friday night.

About the Author:

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Beginners Hints For Using Movie Downloads

By Glenda Evans

New to movie downloads and wanted to learn the basics of such? Well the first thing you have to put in your mind is a little persistence and dedication to learning this. After all, it allows you to find the best sites itself where you can catch the recent movies in free and that is the best thing about it.

Okay, I know you probably think now that it is not secure doing the download in some sites just so because it does not require you payment. I cannot blame you though. In fact, people are already dealing this as hobbies since they get the advantage in significant way since movie downloads are free. Common, ask yourself why would you even pay if your favorite movie show is available online? It is fun and addictive to collect files out of this.

The places for you to find includes P2P file sharing networks. Many preferred these because they do it the easy way. Basically you share file with other people and this is vey clever way to develop the use of internet. This works just by accessing the area of others computer files. With that they can download the movie files where you have placed.

Through forums is the next option. It is way better if we are to base in the safety this time. You really should be aware that not the entire file sharing done in peer to peer means that it is legal. No there are some which are not base to copyrights. While from forums, you only do sharing from the existed movies.

Third option that is popular nowadays is the download authoritative way. It comes from the legal transfer of file sites. In the level of security, it is ranked one than the first two. You can certainly get the full movie downloads length with the quality of DVD. As such, the reliability need not be questioned.

News that a company that is sterling based was requested by the Hollywood studios and other technology companies to guard and manage the database for the limit of piracy while they give out to their customers their piece of download. That includes the variety of contents actually and devices. Because as you are not aware of it, downloading leaves a track to the site you have gotten the movie. It questions about the legality, right?

Though, there are many ways for the download of music and even software. Take note the threats. Are you familiar with Trojan horses? How about spywares and viruses? The rest of malicious scripts are harm and causes serious problems to computers. Best to do is being aware of the possibility and find ways to avoid.

Lastly, it matters for the particular software you use after you download. It will be okay to have media player or install particular system. Consider formats and mind the codec to video and audio too. When all is settled for after you movie downloads process, entertainment is next.

About the Author:

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Stadium Blankets For A Comfy Game

By Cody Bleek

Stadium blankets were generally considered as the outdoor blankets but it is no longer the case as they are no longer considered as a staple for keeping warm in the bleachers but they are now considered to be appropriate to be suitable in any given venue.

These blankets are available in different shapes, colors and fabrics and they can be expected to be made up of traditional and washable wool. Some of these are also made up of washable wool and heavy cotton and some of these are also made up of other fabrics such as fleece, polyester and acrylic, etc. Most of these are available in a size similar to that of a throw blanket and thus the standard size of a stadium blanket is generally 50 inches x 60 inches.

The main features on these unique blankets would be its portability, durability and flexibility. Addition to that would be how easy the blankets can be cleaned and washed. They are also lightweight so it is fairly easy to carry them around. Most of these blankets can be rolled up and carried over the shoulder.

Apart from that, there are also some that comes with an attach bag which allows you to fold and store them into these handy bags and carry them around easily. These blankets are all very light which is one reason why so many people opt and stand by them.

There are several designs that are available for these blankets. They have been particularly manufactured in a manner that they have been ensured to be water-resistant on one of the sides. Thus, they can even be easily spread on damp grass or even over the wet bleachers.

Hence, it is no surprise that a lot of people use them as effective picnic blankets. If you so wish, you can also get personalized stadium blankets with the color, size and design you want which will fit your every need and likes.

About the Author:

Monday, July 19, 2010

Watch Old Classic Films With Movie Download Services

By Alicia Avila

When we talk about bringing back good memories, there is nothing that beats watching old movies, when we see our favorite past time movie; it tends to bring back old memoirs and feelings. Having said this, we find ways to watch movies 15 years ago. Fortunately for us the internet has offered us websites where we can watch out favorite movies, fortunately, there is what we call old movie downloads.

the internet may have its majority of clients surfing for the latest buzz on upcoming news and movies to watch or to watch out for, but there are also sites that has a movie collection that goes back a couple of years, these sites offers their past time movie lovers the luxury of viewing their favorite movies as simple as viewing the latest ones.

These sites knows the importance of old movie downloads, and the feelings and joy it brings back to the viewer, so it saves the customer a lot of time in researching and video shop hopping by providing them with old movies that they want in one click. To start with your old movie experience, again, here are some of the most suggested websites that provides old movie downloads.

As far as old movie downloads, there are not really too much optimum quality sites but with some effort, you will find them. There are sites that have plenty movie information and old movies to go browse so that you could spend ample time on sitting and watching old film pieces in abundance. Ideal for old movie lovers.

Apples website which has many quick time movies is an excellent place to watch old movies, and do some old movies download. The quality and resolution of these movies is really superfine anywhere else online and you can even watch many of them in HD (high definition) or download them to your iPod.

Internet Movie Database is a site with an average level when it comes to the classic films, it has a decent collection of films but it makes up with the information and trivia. It also has the capacity to let the audiences watch the film online or directly download it to their computers.

The last option to this list is the Yahoo Movies or AOL Movies it may not be that appealing but it has wide collection also of classic movies and trailers with the information and comments and the convenience of not paying a single cent.

Old movie downloads takes advantage of the internet and puts the audience in a place where it can view its favorite classic movies at the comfort of their homes and in front of their computers. Some of these sites are for free and these saves a lot of resources while having fun, their quick search function allows you to find a certain movie in one click, their wide variety of movie links also allows you to switch from movie site to movie site, making it very easy to look for the movie you want to watch, just be sure you enter the movie title correctly so that the keywords are in place and the search engines can be very accurate in handing down the results, so when you are looking for your favorite classic movies I suggest you browse over these websites or surf the net for better ones.

About the Author:

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Kelty Teton 2: The Greatest Tent Of All Time

By Raymond Berry

Imagine the entire world rushing by you and leaving you in its wake a tired body and mind. That's what it gets to with a hectic life. Don't you feel its time for you to take a flight into the world filled with the sounds of music of the flowing life of nature's bounties? But then are you scared to get away from the comforts of civilization? Don't despair. It's never been so easy. You have just the stuff to take the basics of civilization with you, and all as your backpack. That's how easy it is with camping as a popular sport and leisure time getaway option.

A range of products designed to be light so that you can easily carry them around are now available with the camping equipment dealers. Things like insect repellants, first aid kit, portable water filter, sunscreen to protect your skin, towel, hiking boots, raincoats and blanket protects you from the vagaries of nature. The sleeping bag and the camping tent take care of your sleeping comforts and shelter. Then there are those essentials such as the flashlight or the lantern, ignition device, the saw or axe, chuck box with kitchen items, maps and compass, cooler to keep beverages and perishable foods fresh, portable stove and trash bag to help you manage with living.

You will get a wide choice of camping tents. Chose a roomy, lightweight and easy to set up camping tent. It should be affordable too. All these features in Kelty Teton 2 tent and comfortably houses two. Made of polyester taffeta, the tent is airy but keeps the rains away from entering.

Trekking, hiking, swimming, fishing and mountain tracking are some of the well known camping activities. Winter camping, canoe camping, mobile camping and adventure camping are more popular. You need to carefully choose all the essential camping equipments depending upon what you have planned for yourself. Make sure that they are light enough to be carried in your backpack. Better equipped to your needs, you can be sure that the camping experience will be simply great.

Camping is everybody's favorite outdoor activity. But the important thing when you go camping, is to have fun and unwind.

About the Author:

Saturday, July 17, 2010

See The Film The Last Dragon

By Silvia Hewitt

The Last Dragon was a film produced by Motown Records in the mid-eighties, and while it was sort of created as a way to market a few singles, notably Oh Sheila, the film still stands as a pretty good Kung Fu movie, a good comedy, and one of the all time must download movies of the eighties. It's fun, funny, sort of corny and very eighties.

The story follows a young man nicknamed "Bruce Leroy", a Harlem martial artist who teaches Kung Fu to the local kids. He works at his father's pizza place, delivering pies on foot and deals with his rival, Sho'Nuff, the Shogun of Harlem... Yep. Sho'Nuff... The Shogun of Harlem. This incredibly goofy martial arts tale takes place on the real streets of modern day Harlem and creates a really quirky, one of a kind movie.

Sho'Nuff, the Shogun of Harlem, is really a cinematic treasure as far as great film characters go. He tries to egg Bruce Leroy into a fight so that he can prove, once and for all, who the strongest fighter in the city is. Every time he steps on scene, it's with a short speech, aided by his lackeys. "Am I the prettiest?!" "SHO NUFF!" "Am I the baddest?!" "SHO NUFF!" "Am I the meanest, leanest mofo around dis town?!" "SHO NUFF!" "SHO'NUFF! Da Shogun of Harlem!" He wears visor sunglasses, a samurai's hakama (those baggy pants that disguise foot movement), and shoulder pads, as well as a top knot... He looks ridiculous and he's just a joy to behold.

The only downside to the movie is the comparatively less interesting subplot revolving around a really, really awful Cyndi Lauper style singer and her manager/boyfriend who's trying to get her some airtime on a local music show, produced and hosted by Bruce Leroy's would-be-lover. This subplot isn't the most interesting part of the film, but fortunately it's not a main focus.

But don't worry, it gets back to that soon enough when the promoter hires the meanest hombres in town to take Leroy down, culminating in a massive brawl with Leroy and his students on one side, and a gang of colorful thugs on the other, including a great big fat white guy with a gray Mr. T mohawk and a gold colored jumpsuit... Strange characters, indeed.

There are a ton of fun, corny eighties movie moments along the way, with Bruce Leroy seeking out an old Confucian master of wisdom; the guy who writes fortune cookies. When he discovers that the fortune cookie writer is actually a computer, he has a moment of zen like clarity.

Could the movie have been a bit better without the subplot about the record promoter and his girlfriend? Sure, but there's always something about every movie where it "could have been better". Regardless, what's there is a fun, funny, corny, exciting little gem of a film. Half kung fu, half spoof of kung fu, and all eighties.

So it's exciting, it's funny, and it has all the goofiness and colorful style you want from an eighties movie. Give it a download.

About the Author:

Friday, July 16, 2010

The Film Fresh Is Directed By Boaz Yakin

By Sarah Hobbs

Boaz Yakin is typically seen as a work-for-hire writer and director. It's not his fault, he's just a good writer with bills to pay, so he takes a lot of sub-par studio projects that don't really offer him anything interesting to do in the script. So it's weird that a movie like Fresh comes from someone with a track record for mediocrity, but Fresh really is one of the all time must see movie downloads.

This movie came after Boaz Yakin's self imposed exile. At a certain point, he became disillusioned with the film industry and declared that he would be taking a hiatus from writing, at least until he felt he had something important to say. The result was a movie that truly does make a powerful statement.

The film follows a young boy working as a drug mule for various mid-level dealers around the city. He makes anywhere from twenty to fifty bucks a run, and he's been storing that money in a coffee can by the railroad tracks. The money really adds up when you save it, and Fresh is saving it. For what? We won't say. Save to say that the way the movie plays out is really something.

Fresh spends one afternoon a week learning to play chess from his father, who is estranged from the rest of the family. These scenes are something like the Greek chorus scenes of the film, with Fresh reflecting on what's been happening and contemplating his next move.

The movie is sort of like Fistful of Dollars as a hood story. Two of Fresh's friends are killed by one of the dealers he works for, and he takes it upon himself to exact an incredible revenge plan that gives you one surprise after another. Fresh is a young man of incredible intelligence, and his scheme is one of the all time greatest plots in film history.

The plan is complex, but easy to understand after you see the whole thing play out. Fresh's ingenuity is incredible, the way he plays one side against the other, all the while avoiding suspicion simply by virtue of being a child. They never suspect that they've been outwitted by a ten year old. So the question is how long he can keep the facade going, how long it takes to make everything work and free himself of these scumbag's control over his life once and for all.

The tightrope he walks to work the scheme is suspenseful, dangerous, frightening, knowing that at any moment, they could catch on to him and put him under the ground.

It's a rare film that works this well with such touchy subject material. The film takes a child of ten years old and puts him into a Fistful of Dollars/Yojimbo style plot, scheming and plotting his way to victory over deadly, menacing criminals. It's incredible how delicate an operation this is, to make the movie exciting and suspenseful without selling short the reality and truth of the subject matter of real life street violence.

About the Author:

Thursday, July 15, 2010

How To Manage Issues With Stucco And Best Way To Resolve The Problems

By Adriana Noton

Not everyone can afford to buy a new home and for those of us that can not, renovations are the next best thing. The outer looks can be especially important to some. Any home will especially stand out if it is in need of repair. Specifically, how to manage issues with stucco and best way to resolve the problems that may arise.

Stucco can be applied to either the ceiling or the walls and it can be found either inside or outside the home. Stucco has become very popular to apply to the surfaces of homes that require some type of road-side appeal. It is also very popular to use on ceiling surfaces.

Stucco comes in two different forms, the first is cement and the second being a synthetic material. The second, the synthetic stucco, or EIFS, has plastic properties. It is applied along with a foam insulation, but can be less breathable than the first type. The problem that can arise with the synthetic stucco is that water may not be able to evaporate and escape from any areas that it can get trapped. This could be around the wood frame of your home and then problems such as rotting and mould can occur.

Stucco is basically just a mixer that is made of an aggregate, which is a mixer of sand, gravel or crushed cement. It also contains an ingredient called a binder, which is used to bind the stucco mixture together with water. Once this mixer has been applied, it hardens to a hard, durable

Stucco itself can have issues too if it is not applied correctly. One of the issues that can arise and that is most common to people that live in hot climates is something called efflorescence. That is simply where the stucco soaks up water that contains salts that have been dissolved. The water is then evaporated and leaves a dusty film that can fall off from the ceilings and the bottoms of the outside of the home, which is salt.

The easiest way to resolve this issue is to seal the stucco that is below ground level, so that water is unable to penetrate into the stucco. As long as the water can not get in, the efflorescence will not occur.

Another problem that can occur with stucco is cracking and chipping away of the stucco. If this is happening with a newer home, it may be because of the lumber shrinkage. If it happens on an older home, it can be caused from soil movement and poor workmanship.

To permanently fix this issue, you need to be sure that the home is firmly in place and not going to continue to shift. That can be the tricky part, especially if you live in a region where the earth is soft or earthquakes and shifting ground happen to be common place. Take off the excess chips and stucco, a cooler and overcast day will work the best. Then buy a bag cement and mix it 1 part cement and 2 parts sand. Add some moisture to the cracks using a sponge or old brush. Fill the crack with this mixture, wait for it to set somewhat and then try to recreate the texture from the previous application.

Whatever your project, stucco can add a durable and hard finish, to improve the looks of your home. It is a cheap way to improve any house.

About the Author:

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Choosing Among The Many Water Filters Systems

By Wilson Tasker

Bottled water and water filters are growing in popularity because of the concern of pollution. The air and water is more polluted today than ever, making it hard to know whether your home water is actually safe to drink and use. Bottled water is one option, but water filter systems are being used more today than ever before.

If you suspect a problem with the water or if you notice your water is starting to taste funny, having it tested is the first thing to keep in mind. Having it tested will provide you with the data on whether there is a problem and exactly what that problem is. That also helps you to know what kind of system your home needs.

Sometimes water tastes funny and that is because of contaminants that may be in it that can make you sick. A filtering system is able to remove microbes, lead, radon, pesticides, and other chemicals that may find themselves in your water supply. They basically are able to purify your water, making it safer to drink.

After it has been determined that you do need a filtering system in the home, you need to research the many different types that will best suit your problem. Choosing one that is certified is needed and as all are not created the same, look for the ones that focus on your specific problem.

Two types of systems are used in water filtering. There is the point of use, POU, which focus on the faucets, where the tap water comes out. And, then you have the point of entry, POE, which is the start of the whole water system where the water enters your home.

Generally there are three options for the point of use filters: distillers, reverse osmosis, and water pitchers. The distillers remove contaminants by boiling the water, which will remove many of the minerals found naturally in water and can change the taste. Reverse osmosis uses a membrane that filters water through with a pressure that pulls microbes and chemicals out of it. They will use a lot of water but are extremely effective. The most affordable are the pitchers, these have filters inside and when you fill them with your tap water it is filtered through, trapping chemicals and contaminants. This method also improves the taste of the water.

POE filters usually come in water softeners, aerators, and adsorptive media or water filtration installations. Water softeners are just like the name says, they softener water. Water can get hard with too much calcium and magnesium ions so this system replaces those with sodium or potassium ions, which makes water softer. Aerators work by jets of air that removes chemicals and contaminants, like radon or chemical components of gas. Adsorptive media installations are often carbon based. They trap solids and liquids in the filter to purify.

Having safe drinking and cooking water is a necessity in any home and it is easy to get with the many water filters available today. Making sure you test your water annually will allow you to catch any problems and let you know if the system you choose is effective. You deserve safe water in your family and you can have that easier than you think.

About the Author:

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Find Quality Legal Movie Download Services

By Mari Tillman

It has happened to all of us. Even though you have the greatest of cable packets, you run all the channels from 1 to 99, 999 and there is still nothing to watch. You continue your search through the DVD library and there is nothing there either. You know that a really good movie was just released on DVD, but do not want to waste the energy to go pick up a copy. Here is a great idea, movie downloads.

Legal movie downloads are available on your computer from many movie download services.

Movies can be either rented or purchased as downloads. Purchased downloads can be saved to an iPOD video, other digital media player or your computer and played over and over again. You may also burn DVDs of your purchased movies. And you do not have to leave your home to purchase or rent a video.

Think of the convenience that this will add to your life.

Those of you who are DVD rental fans will be familiar with the following scenario. You forget to pick up the movie rental, so you turn around and go back to the store. You do not remember the exact title that your family wanted so you do your best at choosing a movie you hope everyone likes. You check out and head home. Just as you get in the house, you find that everyone else has other things to do tonight and they all have plans for you that do not include watching that movie you just brought home. The DVD is left by at the door and the time to watch it never happens. Now it is time to either return it or pay the late fee.

Now, with movie downloads, you do not have to remember to stop by the rental shop.

Anytime you want to watch a movie, you can use your debit card to make the purchase online. The rental does not expire until you watch the movie.

People who purchase DVDs often have a problem with storage. Those little silver disks can take up a lot of space. Then there is the problem of finding the correct disk when you decide that you want to watch it. When you download movies, you can do all your storage on your computer of digital media center. Of course if you prefer to burn DVDs you also have that option.

Please do not use the internet sites that offer pirated movie downloads. You may find that they include files that are harmful to your computer.

Our movie makers depend on video sales and rentals of current movies to continue the process of making more movies. Actors, screenwriters and other professionals work very hard at their trade. If you download a pirated movie you have just stole someone's work. In addition, you may have infected your computer with the latest in computer viruses or Trojans.

Instead, head over to one of the many legal movie download sites that allow you to make legal downloads of your favorite movies for purchase or for rental. Then you will be able to watch a quality movie with a clear conscience and know that you are providing a great example for your children.

About the Author:

Monday, July 12, 2010

Compass Use For Newbies

By JJ Smith

The most commonly used type of compass for outdoor recreation is called a protractor, orienteering , or baseplate compass. These compasses usually have a clear plastic baseplate, a magnetic needle, and a dial that can be twisted to set the compass. Other types of compasses include lensatic and pocket compasses. These work a little differently, and will not be covered in this article, which focuses only on the baseplate type of compass.

Holding the Compass Properly: Hold the compass flat and level, but elevated high enough so that you can read the compass direction while glancing up to look at objects in the distance. Orient the compass so that the direction of travel indicator, at the top of the compass dial, is facing directly away from you. Having the lanyard around your neck will help you keep the compass oriented perfectly with the direction you are facing.

Next, learn what the magnetic needle does. There are some technical nuances about magnetism, but at the basic level of operation there is only one thing you need to remember: The red end of the needle ALWAYS POINTS NORTH. Once you drill this fact into your mind you'll need to understand that there is more than one NORTH. The magnetic needle actually points toward the Magnetic North Pole, which is in a slightly different location than the geographic or "true" North Pole that maps are based on. The distinction is only important if you are using a map along with your compass. If this is the case, which it most often is, you will have to learn how to make a correction in your compass reading to account for the difference between magnetic north and true north (this is called magnetic declination).

Sighting the Compass: Face in the direction you would like to determine maybe this is a direction in which you can see a landscape feature like a hill or perhaps it is just a straight section of a path you plan to hike. Carefully line up the direction of travel indicator (and your body) with the object or direction you wish to travel. Look at the object then glance down at the compass repeatedly and make adjustments to the way your body is facing until the object is directly in line with the direction of travel indicator.

Now, set the compass: Holding the compass still in the direction you sighted, twist the dial until the hollow orientation arrow lines up beneath the needle. When the needle is "boxed" in this manner, the compass is set.

Finally, read the Compass: The number on the compass dial that lines up with the direction of travel indicator at the top (front) of the compass dial is your direction, also called your bearing. It can be expressed in a number of ways including the quadrant or azimuth method depending on the type of compass you have. The azimuth method is easiest. It is a single number between 0-360 degrees, where 90 is East, 180 is south, 270 is west, and 360 (and 0) is north.

Practice these 5 steps until you are comfortable using bearings to navigate around your neighborhood. Learn how to adjust for magnetic declination and read a map before doing any serious or off-trail hiking.

About the Author:

Sunday, July 11, 2010

A Short Synopsis Of Vertigo Starring James Stewart

By Rose Slater

Hitchcock's iconic movie Vertigo is a classic thriller and features lead characters James Stewart and Kim Novak. Vertigo is the kind of movie that you once you have seen you will always remember.

This psychological thriller made in 1958 is based on the original novel by Narcejac and was adapted and written as a screenplay by Tayler and Coppel.

The setting is San Francisco bay and features many classic landmarks around northern California including Coit Tower and the Golden Gate bridge. There are also scenes shot in Muir Woods and San Juan Bautista's legendary mission which has become a major tourist attraction.

The plot of the film is compelling viewing and is ranked as one of the best films of all time. There are many twists and turns which will have you on the edge of your seat.

The main character detective John Ferguson aka Scottie develops vertigo after seeing a colleague plummet to his death. Unable to forget the image he retires from the police force, but is asked by an old acquaintance, Gavin Elster, to help with some private investigation work.

This is where the drama becomes intense. Gavin tells Scottie that his wife is infatuated with a dead woman, Carlotta Valdes. She spends a daily routine visiting the places that have some connection to Carlotta and Gavin fears that his wife is insane.

Scottie spends the day trailing Madeleine, Gavin's wife, and he witnesses her jump into the bay at Fort Point with the Golden Gate looming above her. After he rescues her there is a chemistry between them and Madeleine tells Scottie about her fears of death and a recurring dream with a bell tower in it.

Scottie knows that this is the mission in San Juan Bautista and thinks that she should face her fear. When they arrive Madeleine tears away from his side, runs up the steps to the roof and he is unable to follow because of his vertigo. He hears her scream and is powerless to act.

He is beside himself with grief. Everyone he thinks he sees her. One day he meets a woman, Judy, who looks exactly like Madeleine. They form a relationship and he has her dress like Madeleine, dye her hair blond and go to the same places they went.

A climax is where he makes the connection that they are the same person when he sees Judy wearing Carlotta Valdes' necklace.

He revisits San Juan Bautista with Judy determined to get the truth. He finds out that they are the same woman. The whole thing was a plot to murder Gavin's first wife, the woman that actually fell from the bell tower.

As the couple argue, a nun appears and Judy is frightened by this and plummets down from the bell tower onto the tiles below. Scottie recovers from the vertigo.

This roller coaster of a film is an absolute must for Hitchcock fans and is a classic film which can be enjoyed by everyone.

About the Author:

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Find A Good Movie Download Site To Join

By Kristen Hensley

Going for movie downloads is a more convenient way of enjoying blockbusters nowadays. Because of the internet, now you got other means of getting titles aside from renting or purchasing DVD copies. Through this, you need not step out of the house and drive elsewhere. But before signing up for a site providing this convenience, there are some thing you need to take note of.

First, find out if the payment mode will work for the kind of movie viewer you are. One site may have a completely different payment term than the other. But it's also possible for one site to carry a variety of payment terms. When deciding, the rates you will pay for need to be justified by the amount of movies you can actually afford to watch.

Some sites will require you to pay a fixed rate, either per month or per year. However, there are those where you pay only for each title that you buy and download. Before getting a subscription, weigh the pros and cons. Will it be cheaper than actually renting a movie or buying a DVD? Will you be able to take full advantage of the payment you will make?

With regards to the titles you can pick, this will depend on which studios the site you're eyeing has agreement with. There are websites that focus more on indie films. But there are also those who carry a lot of mainstream movies. Where you subscribe to will depend on your taste for movies. You don't want to pay for a site not catering to your taste.

You should also consider the quality of the movie you are getting. This is to ensure you don't end up with an eye strain or headache by the end of the film. Take a look at the resolution size, which is often expressed in pixels. An example would be something that says like: 640 x 480 or 1280 x 1024 pixels screen resolution.

Second, consider the bitrate. A movie's bitrate can be expressed in either bps (bits per second) or kbps (kilobits per second). If this is beginning to sound like it's some techie stuff, it can be simplified. As a general rule of thumb, the bigger the numbers you see, the better picture quality you have. So check if the resolutions and bitrates carry big numbers.

A way to tell whether a download site is good or bad is by looking at the number of memberships. While it may not give a clear-cut evaluation, it is a good place to start. There must be a reason why a particular site is popular, thus it has more subscribers. Maybe the members are satisfied with the site's good service.

There are many sites out there whose downloadable items contain viruses, malwares and the likes. However, for most legal sites, you can be sure that what you will be downloading is free of such. So your computer's hard drive is safe from harm. Also, it's not just the security of your downloads that you should be after. You should see to it that the payment mode is secure too.

Last but not the least, check the flexibility given by the website regarding your movie downloads. Will you be able to transfer and watch your purchase on another gadget? Will you be allowed to burn them on a DVD so you can free some space on your hard drive? Some websites will give you leeway, while others may not.

About the Author:

Friday, July 9, 2010

Animal Facts - Magnificent Frigate Bird

By Marina K. Villatoro

The frigate birds are a family of seabirds and are also called frigate pelicans. It can be found breeding along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and in the Corcovado National Park.

They are also sometimes called Man of War birds or Pirate birds. Females are black, but have a white breast and lower neck sides, a brown band on the wings and a blue eye ring. They have long wings, tails and bills and the males have a red gular pouch that is inflated during the breeding season to attract a mate.

The Magnificent Frigate Bird is 100 cm long with a 215 cm wingspan. They live an estimated of 30 years. Frigate birds are seasonally monogamous. This means that males will only mate with one female each season. They are also known for nesting in colonies. Due to the fact that these guys lack the ability to take off from water, they snatch prey from the ocean surface or beach using their long, hooked bills. They have been seen catching fish, baby turtles and similar items in this way. When it comes to feeding they will also rob other seabirds, using their speed and maneuverability to outrun and harass their victims.

Male Magnificent Frigate birds inflate their throat sacs during breeding season, clattering their bills, waving their heads back and forth, quivering their wings, and calling to females. After mating has passed females lay one or two white eggs. Both parents take turns feeding for the first three months but then only the mother feeds the young for another eight months. It takes so long to rear a chick that frigate birds cannot breed every year. It is typical to see juveniles as big as their parents waiting to be fed.

Some potential problems they have are: introduced predators and over-fishing. Populations appear to be declining, due mainly to human destruction of habitat for housing and resorts, and disturbance in colonies. But they are not endangered.

About the Author:

Thursday, July 8, 2010

A Detailed Synopsis Of Tetsuo Iron Man

By Nora Delacruz

Tetsuo Ironman was the debut film by the legendary Japanese film director Shinya Tsukamoto. The film is of course in another language, but you should consider putting it on your downloads queue next time you sign into your movie download service because it's not THAT kind of foreign movie. It's a horror action film, so there's always something happening on screen. The dialog isn't what's important. You can follow the story with the subtitles off and still understand it about as well as anyone else... Which isn't saying much, considering how strange the film is.

The movie follows a typical Japanese salary man who, for no reason at all, starts to sprout pieces of scrap metal from his body. It starts when he's shaving and pieces of... Aluminum cans or something start growing from his face. It's very strange. Eventually, he grows into a living, breathing heap of junk metal, and it winds up being a great example of Cronenberg's body horror genre.

Tsukamoto made the film around the idea of a monster flick with a human sized monster. So imagine Godzilla if Godzilla were only five foot eight. It's not exactly like that, but it's very similar. The film has two monsters doing battle: The salary man after his transformation, and Tetsuo, played by Shinya Tsukamoto himself. Both do battle as these metallic monsters, having a final show down in a junkyard on the outskirts of Tokyo.

This is the movie people point to when they talk about Japanese cyberpunk, which has always been more focused on the imagery of industrial machinery, steam, sparks and electricity than on the relations between man and computers. If you want to see more of this genre, you should also check out Electric Dragon 80000v and Burst City, which are considered two classics in this genre.

The movie is fast paced, sort of confusing, but ultimately, it really works well as a sort of horror movie slash action flick. It has an incredible nightmarish look to it, utilizing stop motion special effects, cheap props and costume that look more real because they're not makeup. They actually glued pieces of metal to the actors faces in order to get the look they were going for.

The film draws a lot of influence from two sources: Eraserhead, and David Cronenberg's Videodrome. Both of these films greatly contributed to its look, with Shinya Tsukamoto being a particularly big fan of Cronenberg's entire library of work. A warning, though, if those movies made you squeamish, this one will make you twice as squeamish. As surreal as the imagery is, it still might gross you out just a bit.

Tsukamoto went on to create some of the greatest films ever to come from Japan, including Tokyo Fist, which is one of the greatest films ever made on the subject of the male ego. It's about what happens when two men who are at odds with one another absolutely refuse to back down no matter what, and how far conflict can go when it's not put in check.

He's also gone on to have a career as an actor (he plays a major character in this film), starring as a major character in Ichi the Killer. His career is certainly one to watch. Twenty years after his debut, it's clear that he's just warming up.

About the Author:

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Find A Reliable Kent Island Marina And Save Time And Lots Of Effort

By Carlos Garcia

Putting your boat into a slip can be a wonderful thing to do because you are going to know that it will be protected from Mother Nature. However, it can be difficult to part with your boat at the same time. Since it can be so difficult to do this, you will want to realize that you need to find the best possible Kent Island marina in which to leave it. Here are some places to search to find the one that will be able to provide you with what you need.

The web has become such a powerful tool that you could search it for hours on end. By looking there, you could easily spend hours researching the various ones around you. Another thing is you could possibly find a person that has reviewed them and shared what they thought so you will not be wasting your money on one that gets poor reviews.

You can also look them up in the phone directory, as well. Since many of these are going to be regionally based, you will find some that might be within a comfortable driving distance for you, but you could find some that are going to be on the other side of the city.

Some other place to consider looking would be at the various places near the river or ocean that you live near. Driving around, you probably look out your windows like most people do. If you look out your windows long enough, you are sure to see signs advertising the various marinas that are in your area. Then, you can find one that will be able to assist you and since you are driving you will know how long it will take you to reach the place.

If any of your co-workers have a boat, you could find out if they use one a marina. You might discover that they do, and, if they are, you could get the contact information for the one they like.

Trying to protect your boat is going to be something you will want to do. However, you need to consider looking at the various Kent Island marinas that are near your home to help you in this matter.

About the Author:

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Learn All Your Flight Instructor Has To Offer

By Rod Yeager Jr

It is needless to say that flying a plane is a risky business. It is not something you can throw up once you realize that you cannot take it in fully. Once you put the plane to life, there is no stopping, or looking back. You only have to move forward and fly the plane. That is why it is important to be well- equipped with information and procedures that will come to your aid when things take a swerve. They aim to assist you, and to save you.

These things do not serve as mere lessons. They serve as a light that will guide you when things go wrong, when an emergency strikes you, or when you need to double- check on some practices.

In the course of learning and training, young pilots grow a relationship with their respective instructors. This is completely inevitable and normal. After all, your instructors are there with you almost 24/7 and in every step of the way to help you get started and guide you as you advance.

One pilot, Jason Miller, advised young pilots to look at their instructors as coaches. Coaches are known to have a "bipolar" treatment. One minute they are tough and sadistic, while in the next minute, they are calm and heartening. Adapting to this kind of approach will help you because it will keep your mind in focus, while not being too much in focus. It balances your training. You can never expect anything from them. You just have to do your best, and see how they will react to it.

Flight training can include a series of drills and exercises. You can practice them until perfection, or near perfection, comes. At least, you can pretty much expect what it will be like when you actually fly a plane. You can envision yourself in the middle of a crisis, wherein you have to come up with an immediate solution. This way, your alertness and speed in thinking can be practiced. The most important thing is to have a solid ground on your skills.

Nothing can beat the art of practicing. It is through this that you are able to test your abilities, and observe your performance. Of course, this has to come with the proper study habits. You take in information, and you apply them when you fly a plane. Team up with the best instructor that you can find.

About the Author:

Monday, July 5, 2010

Fun Facts About Ocelots

By Marina K. Villatoro

The ocelot's appearance is similar to that of the domestic cat. Its fur resembles that of a Clouded Leopard or Jaguar. These guys receive many names and some are: McKenney's Wildcat, Jaguatirica, Jaguarete, Tigrillo, Cunaguaro, or Manigordo (in Costa Rica and Panama). It has a tawny to reddish brown coat marked with black spots and rosettes. The fur is short, and lighter beneath. There are two black lines on either side of its face and has a black-banded tail.

Studies suggest that it follows and finds prey via odor trails, but the ocelot also has very good vision, including night vision. The white rings around the ocelot's eyes help to reflect extra light into the eye at night. Ocelots hunt over a range of 18 km2, taking mostly small animals like deer, various rodents, reptiles and amphibians lizards, turtles, frogs, crab, birds and fish.

The ocelot is mostly nocturnal and very territorial. It will fight fiercely, sometimes to the death, in territorial disputes. In addition, the ocelot marks its territory with especial urine. Like most felines, it is solitary, usually meeting only to mate. However, during the day it rests in trees or other dense foliage, and will occasionally share its spot with another ocelot of the same sex.

Like most felines, it is solitary, usually meeting only to mate. However, during the day it rests in trees or other dense foliage, and will occasionally share its spot with another ocelot of the same sex. Also fter mating the female will find a den in a cave in a rocky bluff, a hollow tree, or a dense thicket. The gestation period is estimated to be 70 days.

Thousands of ocelots have been killed for their fur. The feline was classified a "vulnerable" endangered species from 1972 until. This wild cat is distributed over South and Central America and Mexico.

About the Author:

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Buying The Most Suitable Travel Insurance

By Arnold Casey

You will find that many travelers today have become smart by investing in travel insurance. People sometimes forget though to research on the details of the insurance policy they are buying. It is disheartening that most people invest in travel insurance that is simply not suited for their needs. You do not have to make the same mistake though because you can learn about how to select the best travel insurance that will benefit you. Here are the things you need to keep in mind.

First, you must know the different types of insurance available offered by the company you have chosen. It is imperative that you understand each policy that is presented to you as a prospect. Then, it's through the details where you can identify which insurance policy is the right one for you.

The coverage of health insurance also differs so you need to check the differences. It is imperative that you invest in an insurance that will be beneficial for you. Luggage theft and loss coverage, ambulance services coverage and emergency evacuation coverage are just some of the things that you may need for your insurance to cover. Make sure you inquire about the pre-existing clauses that may be relevant to your health conditions.

The most important of all to check is the cost of the overseas health insurance you are going to purchase. You must know which one is the most affordable type of insurance you can get. Because what you can afford is going to be a major factor on what you consider to be important for coverage.

It is important that you decide for yourself which travel and medical insurance is best for you. The main purpose of your travel plan matters because you will be able to know the exact type of insurance you need to buy.

These are the most important things you need to check for your purchase. Never make an uneducated travel insurance purchase which will prove to be futile.

About the Author:

Saturday, July 3, 2010

Learning About Public Transport - France, Germany

By Paolo Matzi

Germany and France have both invested heavily in their public transportation infrastructures because they receive millions of visitors on business and pleasure travel each year. Driving in Europe in general can be expensive, so public transport France Germany offers an economic alternative for both visitor and local alike. After learning the system, the trolleys, buses and railways of France and Germany can get people where they wish to go.

Germany has an extensive and efficient public transport system, linking large cities and small towns and many stops in between. Whether you are arriving in Berlin, Hamburg or Frankfurt, many choices are offered, including high speed trains, buses and trolleys to get you where you want to go. Compared to the headache of driving in an unfamiliar area and taking the risk of getting lost, navigating the German public transportation systems can be easy and a great way to see of more of the passing sights as well.

In France, nearly everyone uses the trains to travel long and short distances. For areas not serviced by the railways, such as small towns and rural districts, bus lines may run from the train station to the town center. In Paris, many urban people use the Metro to get around. It is simple to get a book of ten tickets or a pass good for a set amount of time and travel all over the city.

One of the best reasons to be familiar with public transportation options in France and Germany is to avoid the traffic in the larger cities. Parking can be hard to find and is expensive when you have to pay to park. Gasoline is another cost as well as auto insurance to cover rented or personal vehicles. Since the trains and buses connect all the major hubs, driving is an unnecessary headache for travelers, students or tourists in Germany or France.

Destinations all over Europe can be reached by high speed French and German railways. These trains have sleep compartments for over night journeys and need to be booked in advance. Reservations can be made over the Internet.

Often travelers rate these train trips as the best part of their journeys. They offer a chance to pass a pleasant evening, chatting with other passengers and wake up an entirely new place, rested and ready to go.

Germany and France have excellent public transportation systems that can be ridden to many destinations inside or outside the countries. Utilized by locals and visitors alike, mass transit may be the most economical option when renting a car or driving a private car may be more expensive. Sightseeing and enjoying the ride are two reasons many people take public transport France Germany.

About the Author:

Friday, July 2, 2010

An Over View Of The Movie Memento

By Olive Rivas

Chances are, if you're taking a look into an article like this one, than you are trying to get a better glimpse into the very critically acclaimed and instant classic, "Memento". Sure, there is a good bit to know and to understand about this film, most of which will likely be discussed within this article and the content of its paragraphs.

While there might be several different things to consider and understand when it comes to a film like this, the best way that you can understand the film is through learning about the important events of the plot. The trouble with this is, the plot is not in chronological order, as most movies would be and therefore this becomes a little bit tricky when you go to detail the events of the film.

So for the sake of this article and the explanation of the film itself, you will simply have to excuse the film being described in chronological order, when in all actuality these events are rather spread out through the film in various orders. The reason for this is the very nature of the film, and without it being so sporadic, the film might not have been as good.

The reason that this film has to be this way, is that the main character, Leonard, suffers from anterograde amnesia, which does not allow him to make new memories. He got this condition from catching two men raping and killing his wife. He killed one of the two, but the other got away after clubbing him in the head and sending him smashing into a mirror.

He is rather taken advantage of in his condition, as several people have allowed him to do their dirty work, giving him ammunition in saying that they had something to do with the killing of his wife. Important information that he collects that is relative to the case is tattooed onto his body, so that he does not forget them.

A man claiming to be an officer of the law, who prefers to go by Teddy, offers to take him to a fellow named Jimmy who he says was the other killer there the night of his wife's death. The truth is, Jimmy is just a low life drug dealer who had nothing to do with Leonard's wife. But Lenny doesn't know this, and he kills Jimmy and is fed a load of lies from Teddy about who Jimmy was.

Others are introduced into the story, and more important facts are brought into play. Through the course of the film you presumably learn the identity of the second killer and get a front row seat to watch Leonard exact his revenge. This film is over run with quality performances that made the production powerful. Performances like that of Guy Pearce who played Leonard Shelby and Joe Pantaliano who played Teddy Gammel.

If you aren't careful, "Memento" could lose you to its sporadic jumping back and forth in how the story progresses. But if you are paying attention, you are likely to see one of the best films to have been released in all of 2000, and likely one of the best of the whole '00s.

About the Author:

Thursday, July 1, 2010

The Great Hit Movie Forrest Gump Reviewed

By Harvey Mitchell

Forrest Gump was one of the nineties biggest success stories in cinema and it has become one of the most successful movies in Hollywood cinematic history. The movie, which was released in 1994, is based on the novel of the same name written by Winston Groom. It stars Tom Hanks, Robyn Wright Penn, Sally Field and Gary Sinise.

When the movie was released it was a huge success and ended up picking up seven Academy Awards the same year including one for Tom Hanks as best actor and earning more than $677 million. The movie gave birth to a number of movie quotes that entered the popular vernacular such as "Run Forrest Run!" and "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you are gonna get."

The storyline centers on Hanks' character Forrest Gump. Gump is from Alabama and although he has a low IQ and is considered throughout his childhood to be simple, he manages to live an entirely amazing life. The twists and turns of his life see him present at some of the sixties, seventies and early eighties most important events and meeting highly influential people from politics to pop culture.

At the opening of the movie Gump is sitting at a bus stop and gets chatting to a woman waiting there and recounts events from his extraordinary life to the incredulous woman. The first part of his fascinating journey begins when he is offered a football scholarship at the University of Alabama. From there he enlists in the U. S Army and goes to Vietnam where he becomes a war hero who is later released on medical leave.

During his convalescence from war injuries he takes up ping pong and becomes a national champion who visits Maoist China as a representative of the United States government. Later on he receives a medal of honor from the President and experiences the fringes of the sixties hippy movement.

All throughout his life Gump is enamoured of his friend Jenny who he met on his first day of school. Jenny was an abused child and ends up being a damaged adult who follows a number of self-destructive paths. Gump however, is blind to her weaknesses and they end up together. Gump also manages to become involved in setting up Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. And this becomes a multi million dollar company. He becomes very wealthy when his business partner ends up investing in a little known company called Apple.

The book and the film are both ironic, funny and poignant all at the same time. When you finish watching the movie, you are really left wondering if we are as smart as we all really think we are and if someone like Forrest Gump doesn't have it right after all.

Forrest Gump is at once entertaining and funny as well as offering a deeper story line that is filled with symbolism. The fact that it became one of the most popular and highest earning movies of the 20th century is amazing when you consider that the directorship was offered to two others who turned it down before Robert Zemekis and casting the movie was not as simple as one would imagine with roles being rejected by a number of high profile Hollywood actors.

About the Author: