http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/location-resale-and-lifestyle-three-parameters-for-homebuyers-in-richmond-and-prince-george-county-virginia.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/location-resale-and-lifestyle-three-parameters-for-homebuyers-in-richmond-and-prince-george-county-virginia.html Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:21:12 -0500
Why Location and Resale as well as Lifestyle Should inform Home Buyers Decisions
Location of a primary residence is a concern for all buyers, especially if they must commute to a job. Resale values should be a major consideration as well, so the homebuyer should be looking in areas where growth is either already well underway or imminent, to obtain the best possible property value upon sale in the future. Lifestyle should inform all of the above, because quality of life, and the amount of time spent with loved ones, is becoming more and more important to many Americans. For many in this day and age, it is important to find a home close to recreation, dining and shopping centers so that less time is spent traveling and more time is available to pursue leisure activities.
Homebuyers Buy Properties in Growth Areas
Richmond and Prince George County are areas where growth is already underway, and more expansion is coming in the near future. Richmond is the capital of Virginia, and as an urban center the city and surrounding suburbs are in the midst of growth due to the influx of the professional and working classes into major cities to save time and gas while commuting. It is also home a large tech community, an expanding sector of the economy. There is an avid discussion underway about building a light rail system in Richmond, Virginia, which would make it an even more desirable location for those who need to commute to a job in the downtown area or from outlying districts and suburbs.

I will provide a brief overview here of the reasons why the Richmond metropolitan area (which includes Prince George County) is a good place to purchase a home right now.

Richmond VA: Cultural, Technological, and Educational Center of the South
Richmond has many positive points for the individual or family that wishes to relocate or purchase a home there. Richmond was the Confederate Capital of the South during the Civil War and by the time it was over - the city was burned. Many of the main government and historical structures were built in the late 19th and Early 20th Centuries. Richmond is home to Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Richmond, as well as other fine educational institutions. With the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA), the Museum and White House of Confederacy, The Edgar Allen Poe Museum and many other high caliber institutions, Richmond has a great deal to offer with regards to cultural opportunities. For entertainment, Richmond is nearby Kings Dominion, just north of the city, and is built up along the banks of one of the most scenic segments of the James River, where many public parks allow for maximum enjoyment for all. Downtown Richmond is defined by two districts where nightlife, dining and entertainment are widespread: Shockoe Slip, on the edge of the James River, and the Fan, a district nearby Virginia Commonwealth University. With all this easily accessible to residents of Richmond and the suburbs, it is a city that is fun to live in, and continues to grow and evolve. Richmond is an excellent city for professionals who want to live where they work, and it is a great place to raise a family, with numerous well-defined neighborhoods to choose from.

Prince George County, Virginia: Home to the Combined Arms Support Command of the U.S. Army
There are three main cities located in Prince George County, Virginia: Petersburg, Colonial Heights and Fort Lee. Prince George County is located within the same metropolitan area as Richmond, making it an easy commute of approximately one half hour to 45 minutes into the city from most places in the county. It has a mixture of urban and rural living, with plenty of places where properties with larger tracts of land can be identified. Prince George County is a main retail hub, because it is easily accessible from Interstate 95 and it is the last place in Virginia before crossing the North Carolina state line. The county's opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment are in abundance. As for resale value of properties in Prince George County, prices are on the move because of the major expansion of Fort Lee, and the county's close proximity to Richmond. While the announcement of the closure of military bases across the country has struck many areas quite hard, Fort Lee has benefited from these military base shut downs. During the process of consolidating bases, Fort Lee was identified as a place where army personnel would be re-assigned and trained, with the addition of thousands more personnel reaching the Fort Lee area as each year passes. As evidence of this, the Prince George County school district is expanding, and already in the process of building and opening a new school and redrawing the school district lines as well. For families and individuals that do purchase a home in Prince George County, the resale value of homes has great potential, and is a wise investment at this time.

Homebuyers need to remember that the three main rules of property purchase: location, resale value, and lifestyle preferences can and do play a major role in the selection of a primary residence. Price can also be a deciding factor in a home purchase, especially if the buyer is dependent upon a salaried income, but it should not be the guiding principle behind every home purchase.


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Elaine VonCannon is an award winning REALTOR with RE/Max Capital in Williamsburg, Virginia and she is a licensed ABR and SRES as well as a property manager and member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame. She specializes in retirement and relocation in the Williamsburg, Richmond, Norfolk and Virginia Beach areas and in luxury estate and waterfront estate properties. To learn more visit http://www.voncannonrealestate.com or http://www.estatesinvirginia.com. Email Elaine at voncannorealestate@cox.net.


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/location-resale-and-staycation-in-williamsburg-and-norfolk-va-buzzwords-for-real-estate.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/location-resale-and-staycation-in-williamsburg-and-norfolk-va-buzzwords-for-real-estate.html Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:19:18 -0500
As I take homebuyers out in search of a residence, I have noted a pattern of behavior that is becoming more and more common. Homebuyers are looking for the deal of the century. They are basing their buying decisions solely on price. Yet as they focus on the best price that can possibly be negotiated, (which does matter) they lose sight of other parameters that need to be applied to the purchase of a home.

Purchasing a home in the right location for a person's chosen lifestyle, and eventual resale value, should be paramount in the homebuyer's mind. Yet price continues to be the main focus in buying property.

Short Sales and Foreclosures: Property Pricing Realities

It is true that pricing has been reduced on homes, especially in some of the larger markets, such as California, Florida, and urban markets -- where values have fallen dramatically. According to an article published by Les Christie on Money.com, "nearly 20% of the nation's home sales in 2008 were of bank-repossessed properties. Another 11% were short sales, in which homeowners owed more in mortgage debt than their homes were worth."

Between foreclosures and short sales there are good home buying deals to be had, but home buyers must remember that on these types of purchases banks will generally not go below 20-25% of appraised values.

In the case of purchasing foreclosed properties, homebuyers should be cautious about the condition of the home. If a homebuyer is purchasing a foreclosed property, it is wise to enter into the deal with capital for improvements, because these homes have been neglected due to lack of money. Some foreclosed properties have been intentionally damaged by angry homeowners who have had to abandon their homes under stressful financial circumstances.

With regard to short sales on homes, banks may take up to six months to approve a short sale. Some lenders are folding in the middle of the process, which adds more time to complete a short sale, because negotiations must begin again with the new lender.

Short sales and foreclosures do factor into property pricing. When a home in a neighborhood is sold for less than it is worth, pricing drops in that neighborhood.

So, with pricing in many markets at a three to five year low, why do home buyers continue to focus only on a great deal? Why have the cardinal rules of real estate purchases been pushed to the side? Location, resale values and lifestyle, which I refer here to as staycation, are just as important as price.

I will give an example of some of the major markets where I sell real estate, James City County, Williamsburg and Norfolk, and give a brief overview of how the rules of real estate purchase apply in these markets.

Williamsburg and James City County
For the avid golfer or person entering retirement, or even the family looking to raise children in a good school district, Williamsburg and James City County offer a wonderful lifestyle. There are numerous golf courses, dining, entertainment and continuing education opportunities. In addition Williamsburg and James City County offer one of the top school districts in Southeastern Virginia. In my experience over the long-term selling real estate in this market, resale values remain strong in well-established neighborhoods. In an age where the staycation, or staying at home during scheduled vacations, is becoming more common, Williamsburg has plenty of choices for quality entertainment. These include Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, Jamestown Settlement, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, and numerous outdoor festivals and events that are free and open to the public. All of these factors should inform the purchase of a home in the Williamsburg and James City County real estate market.

Economic, Commercial and Residential Development in Norfolk, VA

In Norfolk, Virginia, where I have closed several residential property deals recently, the opening of a light rail system with stations in Ghent, downtown, and South Norfolk, has created tremendous real estate opportunities in both the residential and commercial sectors. In neighborhoods where light rail train stations will be located, resale values on properties purchased are sure to rise eventually. There are several reasons for this upswing in value. Urban professionals and families are embracing this state-of-the-art transportation system, and public and private organizations and investors are preparing for the influx of new traffic by updating existing properties and committing to building new projects. Taking light rail will cut down on time spent in traffic jams, and leave more time for recreation and spending time with loved ones - a desirable lifestyle for many. With access to Chesapeake Bay Beaches, the Elizabeth and Lafayette Rivers, boating, swimming and recreating on or near the water are widely enjoyed in Norfolk, a world-class port city. Waterside is a main staging area for national and international festivals, and new light rail stations will be located nearby. Norfolk is an excellent place for a staycation. All of these factors should inform the purchase of a new home in this location.

In summary, location, resale, and lifestyle need to come to the forefront once again when individuals are deciding on where to purchase a home. Price will always be an important factor in the purchase of a home, but it should not be the only deciding point.


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Elaine VonCannon is an award winning REALTOR with RE/Max Capital in Williamsburg, Virginia and she is a licensed ABR and SRES as well as a property manager and member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame. She specializes in retirement and relocation in the Williamsburg, Richmond, Norfolk and Virginia Beach areas and in luxury estate and waterfront estate properties. To learn more visit http://www.voncannonrealestate.com or http://www.estatesinvirginia.com. Email Elaine at voncannorealestate@cox.net.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/investing/commercial-and-residential-property-development-in-norfolk-va-related-to-light-rail.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/investing/commercial-and-residential-property-development-in-norfolk-va-related-to-light-rail.html Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:28:23 -0500
Commercial and Residential Property Investment in Norfolk, VA
While some areas of the United States that were once popular places for residential and commercial property speculation, such as California and Florida, are in the depths of an economic downturn, Norfolk is being rehabilitated and upgraded. Much of the construction that took place post World War II is no longer appropriate or desirable in a fast paced contemporary world where the demand for luxury housing and features is high and the inventory for such properties is low. Key areas of Norfolk's downtown district (as well as other areas such as South Norfolk and Hampton Boulevard near Ghent) are surging with commercial, residential, and mixed-use property developments.

Public and Private Building Projects Near The Tide Stations in Norfolk
Many of the current commercial and residential property projects in Norfolk's downtown district are being built in earnest anticipation of the new Light Rail line which will be open to the public in 2010. Several hotels, including the Residence Inn by Marriot and the Hampton Inn as well as the Westin Hotel and Conference Center will be constructed in downtown Norfolk this year and next. The Franklin Condominiums and Belmont at Freemason are examples of luxury housing projects currently under construction. Public projects, such as the Tidewater Community College Student Center, a new Central Library for the City of Norfolk, and Norfolk State University's Student Center, are also being built well in advance of The Tide's opening. These public and private projects will impact the downtown area and stimulate additional projects in the same vicinity.

The Tide's Route
The Tide will begin with a station at Eastern Virginia Medical Center, pass through key points in downtown Norfolk such as Harbor Park and Norfolk State University, and continue on through South Norfolk, paralleling Interstate 264 and terminating at the Newtown Road station, just on the border of Virginia Beach. Since phase 1 of Norfolk's light rail is going right through downtown, many of the larger buildings are already underway.

Residential and Commercial Property Investment and Management
Yet it is still not too late to ‘get on the train' so to speak. There are ample buildings and properties within walking distance of the new light rail train stations that would make excellent commercial or residential property investments. As the larger projects unfold, even smaller establishments and investments will flourish right alongside of these. For those poised for investment, remember to hire a qualified residential or commercial property management company.

Living in the City Limits of Norfolk Instead of the Suburbs
With many people downsizing their homes and looking for ways to save money and time on transportation, inner city living is becoming more popular than ever before. Because the highway system in Hampton Roads is often clogged at key corridors such as the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel and the intersection of Interstate 64 and 264 at Virginia Beach, many professionals are continually frustrated by their daily commute. For this reason it is not surprising that many are leaving suburban enclaves in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and places on the Peninsula to live in Norfolk instead of making the dreaded commute.

Focusing on commercial and residential property investments in areas where there will actually be light rail stations with ample parking is a good strategy that is most likely to payoff handsomely in the near future. To view the simulation video of The Tide and find locations near light rail stations, visit http://www.ridethetide.com/video/simulationvideo.shtml. Contact a qualified commercial or residential property management company, by calling 757-288-4685 or visit http://www.voncannonrealestate.com.


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Elaine VonCannon is an award winning REALTOR with RE/Max Capital in Williamsburg, Virginia and she is a licensed ABR and SRES as well as a property manager and member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame. She specializes in retirement and relocation in the Williamsburg, Richmond, Norfolk and Virginia Beach areas and in luxury estate and waterfront estate properties. To learn more visit http://www.voncannonrealestate.com or http://www.estatesinvirginia.com. Email Elaine at voncannorealestate@cox.net.


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/rewriting-the-future-of-your-organization.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/rewriting-the-future-of-your-organization.html Mon, 15 Jun 2009 16:29:27 -0500
We tend to assume that what has been happening will continue to happen. Obviously, this future won't be exactly the same as the past - but it will be some version of the past dressed up as the future. We call this assumed future the ‘default future'.

This default future consists of our expectations, fears, hopes and predictions, all of which are ultimately based on our experience in the past. Incidents from the past live on as predictions, giving us our default future. For many people today, the default future is economic struggle, survival, and little opportunity to create.

In bad times, people see more bad times coming, and act accordingly. Performance often declines — innovation dries up and collaboration diminishes. All in the face of the best efforts of management to intervene.

It's the job of leaders to create new futures that inspire elevated performance. This role becomes particularly important in the bad times.

We call this process "rewriting the future." Do this well, and the result is a dramatic elevation in performance, regardless of the circumstances.

What CEOs can specifically do: Listening for the future of your organization

Malcolm Burns had been named CEO of New Zealand Steel; his mandate was to return the operation to profitability. He planned a series of process improvement initiatives and a round of downsizing to accomplish these objectives. While these approaches helped to reduce costs and improve business processes, they weren't enough to dramatically change the culture or move past all the tensions, pessimism, and conflict that permeated the workforce.

As Ian Sampson, then head of Human Resources for the plant, told us:
When you think about it, we were expecting the impossible from the employees. Headcount was going down, change was everywhere, and the business was built on shaky technical assumptions. It was widely known that we might close down entirely. And yet we needed people to become proactive, positive, energetic, and to dramatically change their relationships with each other.

After being exposed to a leadership development process based on The Three Laws of Performance, Burns met with the employees and boldly stated:
I think we've done a lot of good planning and efficiency work, but it won't get us to success. I've been sitting here, thinking about what will. It gives me a problem. I now know we need a future that excites us, and I'm not the kind of guy that can do that. I'm an operator. I love making things work, but I'm not a visionary. I can't come up with that future. I'm going to put together a process that'll allow everyone to collaborate on creating the future that we need. I do know this —I'll know it when I hear it.

Once we have it, if you work with me to make it real, you'll be my partner. If you don't, I'll fight you like an alley cat. In fact, I'll fight like an alley cat with anyone at headquarters who doubts our future, with any politicians whose actions and policies are damaging to our future, with customers and suppliers who are not supporting us for the future, and anyone else in the community whose words or deeds are likely to create problems for our future.

As the audience's reaction went from surprised to excited, many rising to their feet and applauding, he stood and shouted, ‘‘and if you don't think I am living up to these commitments, tell me!''

Their quiet, technical manager had become an outspoken, articulate, and even charismatic leader. For the next year, he did ‘‘fight like an alley cat'' with those who opposed the future that was created, and he partnered with those who supported the future. Burns had rewritten his own future; now he sought to rewrite the future of the company.

Two years later, when the collective and rewritten future was realized, the company had reduced its key benchmark costs by 15 to 20 percent, while increasing return on capital by 50 percent. All this had happened while the workforce was reduced by 25 percent in a positive, constructive, and cooperative manner.

Having fulfilled his mission, Burns chose to move on to his next career challenge. At 6:00 a.m. on a Saturday morning, six hundred employees gathered to say goodbye to the man who had not only kept the plant open but also allowed it to flourish. The company kept up the momentum, and today is branded as the world's only boutique steel producer.

During the farewell ceremony, after a prayer from the plant chaplain and blessings from the local Maori tribes, Burns presented the whole workforce with a steel wall sculpture made from product in the plant, in the shape of an alley cat. It is now hung with pride in a place in the conference room where all can see it and be reminded of its significance as they continue the company's transformation.

Malcolm Burns of New Zealand Steel was a remarkable leader because he allowed others to build a future that would inspire them. As that future developed, Burns became the walking embodiment of it. In contrast to leaders who create dependency, when Burns left New Zealand, the company was self-reliant and self-generative. The people in the company and community were authors of their own future.

Building companies and lives around futures

There are specific actions that leaders can take to construct a future that has the potential to dramatically elevate performance. These include:
- Articulate the default future — what is the past telling you and others will happen?
- Ask yourself and others: do we really want this default future?
- If not, begin to speculate with others on what future would inspire action from everyone, and address the concerns of everyone involved.
- As you find people who are not aligned with the future, ask, what is your counterproposal?
- Keep working until people align — when they say ‘‘this speaks for me!'' and they commit to it.


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Steve Zaffron and Dave Logan are the authors of The Three Laws of Performance: Rewriting the Future of Your Organization and Your Life, part of the Warren Bennis series published by Jossey-Bass. Steve Zaffron is the CEO of the Vanto Group, a global consulting firm that designs and implements large-scale initiatives to elevate organizational performance. Zaffron has directed major corporate initiatives with more than three hundred organizations in twenty countries.Dave Logan is on the faculty at the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California and is a former associate dean. He is also senior partner of CultureSync, a management consulting firm and has written three books. Visit www.threelawsofperformance.com or email stevezaffron@gmail.com.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/alternative/results-oriented-exercise-a-key-component-of-holistic-medicine-and-a-healthy-lifestyle.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/alternative/results-oriented-exercise-a-key-component-of-holistic-medicine-and-a-healthy-lifestyle.html Sat, 30 May 2009 12:12:36 -0500


Intensity and Resistance: The Secret to Results-Oriented Exercise



NASA and its astronauts have been quite busy recently! Besides repairing the Hubble Telescope, NASA has been conducting significant research into exercise.



This exercise research originally started to help their own astronauts with a unique problem: astronauts who spent a long time in space at the International Space Station returned to Earth with significant losses of mass and strength in their muscles and bones. The scientists realized that the reason these highly trained individuals were losing so much of their strength is due to being in zero gravity.



To counter the effects of space on muscle and bone mass, NASA has invested enormous resources in resistance exercise machines like the Interim Resistance Exercise Device (iRED) and the newer Advanced Resistance Exercise Device (aRED). In laymans terms, these devises used a combination of rubber bands and cables to allow the astronauts to do squats and other exercises while in space, mimicking the weight that they would have from gravity were they doing these same exercises at home.



Sounds like a perfect solution. Except…when the astronauts returned home, scientists realized that their muscle and bone loss was equal to what it was before the fancy new machines. These NASA designed exercise devices were not successful in stimulating muscle and bone!



What's the catch? Why didn't the machines work? And how does this affect those of us still here on planet Earth?



Natural Health Exercise Recommendations



What was missing from the NASA program was that the exercise machines astronauts used in space provided too little resistance and placed too little intensity on the muscles and bones. This countered the effect of gravity, but it wasn't enough to just mimic gravity; more intensity was required to really stimulate muscle and bone strength.



On a much less dramatic scale, we can apply this knowledge to our earthly exercise routines. In order to have strong muscles, healthy bones, and enjoy the benefits of exercise, it is critical to use weights with enough resistance and optimize the number of repetitions for each set of exercise.



Here are some holistic health tips for getting the most out of your exercise workout.



Use Heavier Weights:

1. To improve muscle strength and bone density you need to perform resistance bearing exercises such as lifting weights.
2. Lift weights approximately 70-80% of your max. Lifting weights with enough resistance compresses bone cells. This slows bone mineral loss and increases bone density by providing enough force to stimulate growth.
3. Do low reps. Perform 6 to 8 repetitions per set instead of 12 or 15. Complete 2 or 3 sets like this. Lower reps allow you to use more weight to provide the necessary stimulus to muscles.



Increase the intensity:

1. Include explosive exercises such as interval training, sprinting or jumping.
2. Intensity (without overdoing it) is the key to results-oriented exercise.



To sum it up: stronger muscle = stronger and healthier bones = longer and healthier life!



This space-age research confirms what many other studies have shown: if you want to improve your health and increase the effectiveness of your exercise routine, more intense workouts will help you lose weight and gain strength- all in less time. Make sure and consult your physician or naturopathic doctor before beginning your new exercise program. This way you are sure to avoid too much stress on the body or injury. Enjoy a great workout!



Source: Journal of Applied Physiology (J Appl Physiol 106: 1159-1168, 2009) and the NASA Technical Reports Server: (http://ntrs.nasa.gov/search.jsp)


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Lewis Family Natural Health is a husband and wife team of naturopathic physicians in Asheville, North Carolina. Drs. Kristina and Eric Lewis specialize in holistic women's health, homeopathy, herbal medicine, nutritional counseling, all natural weight loss and healthy lifestyle coaching. For more information visit http://www.LewisNaturalHealth.com.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/alternative/holistic-health-care-news-the-importance-of-healthy-sunscreen.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/alternative/holistic-health-care-news-the-importance-of-healthy-sunscreen.html Wed, 27 May 2009 22:12:31 -0500


Why Naturopathic Doctors Believe Healthy Skin Care Affects Holistic Medicine



The skin is the largest organ of the human body. The skin not only protects the muscles, ligaments, organs and bones, but also guards the rest of the body from microorganisms, eliminates toxins, insulates the body, regulates temperature, and synthesizes Vitamin D. In order to maintain good health, proper skin care is essential since the health of the skin reflects the health of the body.



Sunshine can be very healthy for our skin, as well as our mood. But what about the dangers that comes along with too much sunshine? Sunburn, skin cancer, wrinkles, premature aging…we've all been taught to protect our skin from the harsh rays of the sun or else suffer the consequences. So for the past years, many of us have heeded these warning and have been lathering up, head to toe, with minimum SPF 970 sunscreen to stay safe from the dangers lurking from above.



Avoid Common Allergies and Symptoms of Toxicity with Natural and Organic Skin Care



In today's modern world many people suffer from sensitivities to the harsh chemicals and preservatives found in lotions, make up, cleansers and other skin care products. Common allergies and symptoms of skin toxicity include acne, excessive dryness, rosascea, rashes, itchiness and more. These kinds of skin problems can be treated with herbal medicine, homeopathy and a body detox program. Naturopathic medical physicians and alternative health practitioners also recommend the use of chemical-free, organic skin care products.



A Naturopathic Doctor's Opinion on the Importance of Wearing Healthy Sunscreen



The Environmental Working Group (www.EWG.org), the same excellent organization responsible for researching and publishing resources such as The Shopper's Guide to Organic Produce, has now created The Shopper's Guide to Sunscreen. EWG has carefully studied more then 1100 sunscreens currently on the market and evaluated the products based on three major criteria:



1. How much protection the sunscreen offers against UVA and UVB rays

2. How quickly the sunscreen breaks down

3. How many toxic ingredients or harsh chemicals it contains.



According to EWG's study, featured on www.cosmeticdatabase.com, four out of five sunscreens on the market fail to properly protect the skin or contain harmful chemicals. Popular brands such as Banana Boat and Coppertone received poor ratings from EWG, as did brands like Almay and Neutrogena, which are advertised specifically for people with sensitive skin.



Most sunscreens fail to achieve high ratings from EWG for the following reasons:



1. The sunscreen does not provide UVA and UVB protection. (The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is designed to measure UVB protection only).

2. The sunscreen breaks down too quickly and skin is not protected.

3. The sunscreen contains harsh chemicals that are absorbed into the blood and can lead to other health problems.



Naturopathic doctors and alternative health practitioners are concerned about problems with popular sunscreens because they do not do what they are supposed to: protect the skin from damage or aging.



UVA and UVB Rays



UVB rays, the ones that are considered for an SPF rating, are dangerous because they are absorbed by the superficial layer of skin and can cause sunburn and potentially skin cancer. UVA rays, the ones not considered for SPF, affect the deeper layers of skin but can also cause skin aging and skin cancer. According to the EWG, 7% of sunscreens do not prevent UVA.



Rapid Breakdown and Limited Coverage



Additionally, 44% of analyzed sunscreens experience partial or total breakdown within minutes or hours, which means although the sunscreen offers some protection, the protection is not guaranteed over time.



Naturopathic Medicine Concerns About Sunscreen Chemicals



Naturopathic doctors and other professionals in the holistic health care field have many safety concerns in particular about the chemicals used in sunscreen. Some common ingredients have been linked to hormone disruption and the onset of allergic reactions. In addition there are no safety studies that evaluate the interaction of these chemicals and their effects when combined with many other chemicals we are exposed to in our environment like pesticides, herbicides and plastics.



Questionable Product Claims about Sunscreens



Due to the possible side effects of chemicals it is important to be aware of questionable product claims regarding sunscreen. FDA regulations currently are not complete, therefore there is no oversight about common claims. Statements like "All Day Protection," "Broad Spectrum Protection," "Waterproof," "All Natural," and "Chemical Free" must be carefully investigated. According to EWG, 70% of the sunscreens studied contained a questionable or misleading claim on the bottle!

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Lewis Family Natural Health is a husband and wife team of naturopathic physicians in Asheville, North Carolina. Drs. Kristina and Eric Lewis specialize in holistic women's health, homeopathy, herbal medicine, nutritional counseling, all natural weight loss and healthy lifestyle coaching. For more information visit http://www.LewisNaturalHealth.com.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/student-group-travel-take-a-band-trip-to-new-york-city.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/student-group-travel-take-a-band-trip-to-new-york-city.html Wed, 20 May 2009 12:06:02 -0500

There are certainly plenty of choices for a student group interested in performing in either an adjudicated music festival setting or a performance that is not judged in New York City. This article will give band leaders, music teachers and other student trip planners an overview of some of the major performance and adjudicated music festival venues in the New York City area.


Take the Band to an Adjudicated Music Festival at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey


For high school bands that wish to compete, Six Flags Great Adventure in NJ is just a short bus ride from New York City, and offers superb stages outfitted with excellent equipment. Perform in the auditorium and spend the rest of the day at Six Flags riding the roller coasters, log flumes, and other fun activities.


The Six Flags Music Fest usually occurs in mid-May and is a great opportunity to perform and compete. Bands who do not want to compete in the adjudicated music festival with other schools may still perform and receive a rating from judges. This Six Flags Music Festivals are attended by high school bands, orchestras, ensembles, and choirs from across the United States. Six Flags Great Adventure provides musical performance stages with microphones and amplifiers as well as some percussion instruments.


Adjudicated Music Festivals Held at Universities and Colleges in Early Spring


College is still in session in early spring. Many high school bands that visit New York City compete at two universities within a short distance: Montclair State University

or Rutgers University. Student band trip planners may book adjudicated appearances March-April.


Student performances are staged and judged in college auditoriums and award dinner ceremonies are held at nearby restaurants. The benefits of performing in a collegiate setting include ample seating, excellent acoustics and a quality sound system set-up and ready for student performances. Many of the judges are well known as musicians and directors of the finest bands and orchestras in this country.


Band Trips: Perform at New York City Venues


If the high school band wants to perform publicly in New York City without adjudication there are some wonderful venues to select from that will give the students excellent visibility. The company I own, Educational Travel Consultants, has booked student performance groups at the Statue of Liberty, United Nations, or Lincoln Center. Consider one of these locations as a place to reach out and find a wider audience for a high school band. Remember to book well in advance (6 months to one year) to ensure the performance will take place at the chosen venue.


Complement public performances for the high school bands with some exciting itinerary choices. Add some variety to the student travel itinerary. Many student trips to New York City tour Lincoln Center, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island or Chinatown. Student groups may enjoy some of the best art museums in the world or take in a Broadway show. Students may also visit some of the finest delicatessens in the U.S. and dine at the Hard Rock Café, or a Medieval Dinner theater.


Most importantly, work with an educational travel consultant who is experienced in music festivals and touring New York City. Whatever a student group trip planner chooses for entertainment and dining -- a qualified student travel consultant will assist in building an excellent trip to New York City designed specifically for the high school band.


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Howard Clemens founded Educational Travel Consultants in 1984. Over the last 24 years, Mr. Clemens has organized student travel tours for thousands of high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. His company also specializes in performance tours to Washington D.C., New York City, and Orlando, Florida. Email him at info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or visit http://www.educationaltravelconsultants.com.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/pr/digital-press-releases--organic-seo-vs.-traditional-pr.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/pr/digital-press-releases--organic-seo-vs.-traditional-pr.html Fri, 15 May 2009 09:37:40 -0500
The website publicist or owner needs to understand that a digital press release generates online success and helps increase a website's visibility on search engines if it is well-written and linked correctly. The word count is usually limited to 400 words, for many of the top press release websites. Additional charges usually apply for a word count above this.

The traditional press release can and does exceed 400 words. It aims for success in print, radio, and television. Since the Web is a secondary focus for this type of release, keywords may not be integrated into text. One primary link may be inserted into that traditional PR, while a well conceived digital press release will display multiple hotlinks to different pages of a website.

Traditional print media writers and editors also need some re-training on this and other issues that affect the visibility of text on websites, but this is another topic for a future article. Today, this article outlines the defining points of a digital press release and compares the effectiveness of this type of distribution to traditional PR channels and news wires.

What is a digital press release?

There are several characteristics that define a digital press release. First, a digital press release is posted on the World Wide Web at PR websites, where it is distributed to various news wires and archived on the sites as well. The Internet press release is optimized with live links to different pages of a website and a fee is usually charged for each link or a set number of links. Digital press releases are written with keyphrases in mind for optimum impact on search engines, while traditional press releases do not focus upon or integrate keyword selection.

How does distribution of an Internet Press Release differ from Traditional Press Releases?

Distribution networks for a digital press release usually focus on large search engines such as Yahoo, Ask, MSN, and Google, as well as news distribution websites where Associated Press, Reuters, and Real Simple Syndication (RSS) subscribers may pick up information. The goal in pushing out a digital press release is to have it reproduced on as many websites and RSS feeds as possible, with backlinks to the website spread across the Web for the maximum exposure. For widest exposure a reputable web distribution service may be selected. There are many different geographical options that affect pricing.

A traditional press release is geared towards print, radio, and television. Some digital press release services (such as Marketwire and BusinessWire) offer penetration into traditional media as well. With a focus on being picked up by traditional media, the distribution channels and priorities are clearly different for a traditional PR. A traditional PR service might focus on good regional or statewide lists that are up to date with recent names and phone numbers of editors who may be contacted with follow up phone calls and emails.

How does a digital press release increase a website's visibility on search?
The digital press release, if written professionally with a hook, can be posted at multiple locations on the web. A link to the website is sometimes provided for free (in the contact info) or the user must pay for multiple links. The digital press release is very effective at stimulating search engines because once added to the websites search robots will dig for keywords and find the new text. The backlinks are set up on PR websites where the release is posted immediately. Many of these sites archive their press releases so these backlinks are mostly permanent (unless the PR site goes out of existence). As the release is republished by website editors and picked up by those who subscribe to RSS feeds with related topics and themes, the backlinks are spread even more widely.

Should a digital press release be used with a website launch?
The answer to this question is yes! Do not miss the opportunity to help search engine spiders find a brand new website. When the press release is posted on the site, it gives search engines tangible keywords by which to identify the site. If the press release is properly syndicated online, then search engines will also find backlinks from valuable, industry related websites, which is tremendously helpful for high ranking on select keyphrases as well. In addition to posting the press release on the company web site, it can also be posted and shared on various social networking web sites including Facebook, Linked In, Fast Pitch and any other sites where user generated content is encouraged.

The digital press release was still in its infancy 10 years ago, and not well recognized by marketing specialists or SEO firms even five years ago. Yet, with the downfall of large newspapers and other print publications, the digital press release can no longer be ignored. Writing and posting a digital press release can be very effective at aiding a website in gaining recognition by search engines immediately and at promoting an existing website.



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Elizabeth Kirwin is co-founder of http://www.sidhecommunications.com, an organic search marketing firm that specializes in web site development, web site promotion, search engine marketing, and keyword writing. Ms. Kirwin is a professional writer with bylines in national magazines and newspapers. She assists company stakeholders in developing keyword writing strategies for maximum exposure on search engines. Email her at elizabeth@sidhecommunications.com.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/take-a-student-trip-to-lowell-massachusetts-and-journey-back-to-the-beginning-of-the-industrial-revolution.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/take-a-student-trip-to-lowell-massachusetts-and-journey-back-to-the-beginning-of-the-industrial-revolution.html Tue, 05 May 2009 21:23:27 -0500
Historical Sites of Interest to Student Groups

Lowell is home to the Lowell National Historical Park, a 141-acre park. Though it is not the first urban national park, it is the largest in the country. The park includes a Visitor Center, and many restored and un-restored sites from the 19th century. The Visitor Center provides a free self-guided student tour of the history of Lowell, including exhibits such as the patent model of a loom by local inventor S. Thomas. The visitor center also includes a 20 minute video entitled "Lowell: The Industrial Revolution."

Right Outside of Boston, Mass. Lowell Provides Insight into the Industrial Revolution

The Boott Mills sit along the Merrimack River, on the Eastern Canal, and are the oldest and most fully restored manufacturing sites in the district. The Boott Mill provides a walk-through museum with living re-creations of the textile manufacturing process in the 19th century. Adjacent to the Boot Mills is the Tsongas Industrial History Center, a hands-on center where weaving, creating canals, testing water wheels and working on an assembly line are some of the interactive activities for students.

A walkway along the river leads to several additional un-restored mill sites, providing views of restored and un-restored canal raceways once used by the mills. Additionally, the park includes the Patrick J Mogan Cultural Center, which focuses on the lives of Lowell's many generations of immigrants.

The park includes a 5.6 mile power canal system. Boat and trolley tours along the Pawtucket Canal are offered late Spring through fall. Reproductions of 1901 electric trolley cars operate Spring through Fall. Other exhibits include canal boat tours exploring some of the city's gatehouses and locks and the River Transformed / Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit, which shows how water power, namely the Francis Turbine, was once used to run Lowell's textile factories.

Lowell is also home to Lowell-Dracut-Tyngsboro State Forest, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Vandenberg Esplanade, and the University of Massachusetts Lowell Radiation Laboratory which houses a small nuclear reactor. Lowell is the birthplace of Jack Kerouac and Academy Award-winning actress Bette Davis. Jack Kerouac's gravesite is in Lowell's Edson Cemetery. Another literary historical site of interest to student tour groups is The Worthen House, where Edgar Allan Poe allegedly wrote "The Raven," a story known to all American students.

Women's History in Lowell, MA

The term "Lowell Mill Girls" is used to describe the city's 19th century female textile workers, who comprised about 75 percent of the city's textile workforce. In 1845, the women organized a group called the Lowell Female Labor Reform Association and demanded a ten-hour workday. The petition they sent to the Massachusetts General Court led to the first government investigations into labor conditions in the United States.

Lowell is also the birthplace of Mary Hallaran, former director of the United States Women's Army Corps. When asked by a superior what someone of her short stature could do for the military, she famously replied, "You don't have to be six feet tall to have a brain that works."

Touring Lowell with Student Trips

The Western Avenue studios provide an artistic picture of Lowell's culture for student groups. A converted mill on Western Avenue which houses over 160 working artists and musicians, the studios are open to the public on the 1st Saturday of each month from 12-5 p.m.

With Lowell's textile history, it is particularly suited as home to the New England Quilt Museum. The Quilt Museum includes 150 quilts which showcase the history of American textiles in quilts and quilt tops. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and has special hours on Sundays from May through December. The museum also offers discount tickets to students.

Lowell, MA. is the Perfect Add on to a Boston Student Trip

The city uses old freight lines to run streetcars from the center of the city to many of the city's historical destinations. It also runs a public transit bus system throughout the city and is connected to Boston through commuter rail making it easy for educational groups visiting Boston to add Lowell, Massachusetts to their itinerary. Your educational travel consultant can help you make the best arrangements for your student group.

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Howard Clemens founded Educational Travel Consultants in 1984. Over the last 24 years, Mr. Clemens has organized student travel tours for thousands of high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. His company also specializes in performance tours to Washington D.C., New York City, and Orlando, Florida. Email him at info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or visit http://www.educationaltravelconsultants.com.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/a-senior-class-trip-to-washington-d.c.-with-some-fun-sprinkled-on-top.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/a-senior-class-trip-to-washington-d.c.-with-some-fun-sprinkled-on-top.html Tue, 05 May 2009 18:10:51 -0500

A Day at the Beach: Ocean City Maryland

What better way is there to spend at least one day on the senior class trip then at the beach relaxing, sunning and enjoying the surf. Ocean City, Maryland is just a short bus ride from Washington D.C. and provides one of the widest beaches and largest boardwalks on the East Coast. Students can spend some time on the beach, then head for the boardwalk to visit arcades, amusement parks, and shop for souvenirs.


Go to the Game: See the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitols in the Spring or the Baltimore Orioles in Summer or Fall

Many students who visit from different areas of the United States do not live in towns or cities where there are major league baseball, hockey or football teams. A visit to the Washington D.C. area is the perfect opportunity to have a night out at the ballgame. Baltimore Orioles or Washington Nationals are an introduction to the major leagues for many students. In the early spring, student trips can see the Washington Wizards play basketball or the Washington Nationals play professional hockey. Whatever the student group leader's preference for the choice of game, attendance is bound to be a great experience.


Spend the day at Six Flags America Theme Park

Just a half hour from downtown Washington D.C. is a student favorite: the Six Flags America Theme Park. There are serious roller coasters and other thrilling rides as well as a water park. Entertainment includes live music and performances all day long and into the evening. Student groups can enjoy a diverse choice of food, shopping, and games when they take a break from rides.


Dance the Night Away on a Spirit D.J. Dinner Dance Cruise on the Potomac River

Washington D.C. Spirit Cruises has a special event that appeals to young audiences: they host some of the best DJs in Washington D.C. for the evening. Students will definitely remember the Dinner Dance Cruise on the Potomac River. They will have a Grande Buffet Dinner and enjoy a three-hour cruise of Washington harbor with panoramic views of the city, including some of the monuments.


Take in a Show: Medieval Times Dinner Show or a Broadway Dinner Show

Students trips that journey a short distance into Maryland will be intrigued by the Medieval Times Dinner Show, which includes a jousting tournament with knights in armor who also fight with swords as entertainment. A four-course meal is served during the tournament. If the group is not in the mood for a medieval tournament, then perhaps a Broadway Dinner Show would be in order. The Broadway shows that make it to Washington D.C. are on par with those performed regularly in Manhattan. Many of the most popular Broadway musicals, such as Wicked and High School Musical have been performed in the area.


For a senior class trip, the choices for entertainment in and around the Washington D.C. area are interesting, fun, and memorable. Washington D.C. is more than the nation's capital; it is also a diverse, large urban area with many different choices for dining and entertainment. Remember to book a senior class trip to Washington D.C. with a qualified educational travel consultant.


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Howard Clemens founded Educational Travel Consultants in 1984. Over the last 24 years, Mr. Clemens has organized student travel tours for thousands of high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. His company also specializes in performance tours to Washington D.C., New York City, and Orlando, Florida. Email him at info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or visit http://www.educationaltravelconsultants.com.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>