Yamaha Motorcycles

Yamaha Häcksler - Photo: Pixabay

The development of Yamaha motorcycles is one that took place quite by accident. In 1953 the company was already developing a variety of other products. They were looking for a use for idle pieces of equipment that had once been used to make propellers for airplanes. The ideas for this equipment included sewing machines, auto parts, scooters, all-terrain vehicles, and motorcycles. The decision was made to focus on manufacturing motorcycles because of the market demand for them. 

The first Yamaha motorcycle was introduced in August of 1954, called the Yamaha YA-1. This bike featured a two-stroke single-cylinder engine. By July of 1955, Yamaha was creating 200 quality motorcycles each month with a staff of 274 people. The YD-1 was introduced in 1957 as a racing bike. The bike quickly became popular and was featured in the United States Catalina Grand Prix in 1958. 

This gave Yamaha the invitation to start selling its motorcycles in the United States with a private dealer in California. To further attract sales in the United States, Yamaha Motor Corporation USA was established in 1977. In 1959 Yamaha introduced the idea of offering a converter kit to consumers. This allowed the motorcycle to be used for both street riding and motocross racing. 

By 1960 Yamaha was producing 135,000 bikes per year. 1965 saw the advancement of no longer having to mix oil with gas due to the automatic oiling system. By 1973 Yamaha was selling more than 1 million motorcycles each year worldwide. 

During the 1970’s they began working on developing four-stroke models to compete with other manufacturers. The results were faster motorcycles that met emissions regulations and were even more economical than the two-stroke models. However, they also realized the potential to continue selling two-stroke models to consumers as well. Many other manufacturers focused only on four strokes, so Yamaha was able to meet the needs of that target market. 

1974 brought the introduction of the YZ250. This model quickly became the largest selling motocross bike because it featured a single horizontal rear suspension system. Yamaha built a racing track right next to the plant, allowing them to continually observe the quality and capabilities of their products. 

Yamaha created one of the fastest racing bike models in 1985 with the introduction of the V-Max. This was classified as a muscle bike, with power that was not for the beginning rider. They continue to produce some of the fastest bikes on the market both for street riding and for racing. 

Yamaha has never been satisfied to simply stop when they had a good thing going. They always had a vision of achieving more and to strive to further customer satisfaction. The visions and philosophies of the company have proven to be effective in every aspect of motorcycle production. The fact that they offer so many different models means the consumer has the opportunity to find the exact motorcycle they are looking for from a brand name they know they can trust to offer them a quality product. 

While some of their models of motorcycles haven’t sold well, many of them have. Yamaha has always focused on the future of motorcycles while keeping in mind what consumers are wanting. They have been able to diversify their developments, and it has paid off by allowing them to reach a large portion of the motorcycle market without compromising their vision. 

Today (2007), Yamaha is the second largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world behind Harley-Davidson. They continue to make fast, reliable motorcycles that customers around the world are proud to own. They also manufacture motorcycles that have won more races than any other brand on the market. Their diversity and dedication to making quality motorcycles that meet the needs of the consumer have kept them a top seller in this growing industry. Yamaha dealerships can be found around the world, offering a full range of motorcycle models to suit your tastes. 

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A Greek Retreat

Zakynthos - Photo: Pixabay

Historically Modern

The Cradle of Civilization, Greece has long played a part in the history of the world. It is located in the southeastern part of Europe between Albania, Turkey, and Italy. Greece is one of the smallest countries in Europe. However, despite its size, it holds an astoundingly rich history and culture. Thus, Europe especially Greece, became a haven for over 16 million tourists each year making it the 15th most visited countries in the world to date. (Information from 2007)

Cosmopolitan Living

Life in Greece is peaceful and serene. The locales are calm and charming people that think of the future optimistically. Theft and violence are kept down to the lowest level. Thereby, tourists consider this a safe place to travel in. People live simply. These amicably hospitable people welcome guests with open arms.

Activities in Greece vary from place to place. However, despite its difference, they all satisfy the different needs and likes of the guests. Mealtime in Greece is best enjoyed at late nights. Party starts at 10 pm and people, both the locales and guest, frequent the clubs, bars, restaurants, and taverns.

Joining the Greeks during mealtime will not be an awkward experience. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation. You will surely find yourself sharing quite interesting, not to mention, memorable conversations with them.

And now we move on to places that placed Greece on the map and tourists in the country.

Santorini - Photo: Pixabay

Santorini

The volcano which has the greatest eruption mankind has ever known - that is Santorini. It is located in the most well-known islands in the Cyclades. Superstitions say that if engaged young couples stay and last for a week on Santorini, they will be blessed a lifetime marriage.

Crete

Crete island is located between the Libyan Sea and the Cretan Sea. Crete’s long and rich history, amazing features, charming villages, breathtaking natural areas, scrumptious cuisine, fabulous beaches, century-old traditions, and hospitable inhabitants makes it one of the most visited places in Greece. Visitors can spend leisure time exploring the ancient sites, swimming in crystal-clear waters, participating in a wide array of outdoor sports, and having fun at the nightlife venues. Truly, Greece is a versatile vacation spot that is worth visiting.

Athens

Athens is the capital city of Greece, not to mention, one of the most magnificent cities in the world. It is the birthplace of principles and values that our society bases today and the cradle of the western civilization. Athens’ excellent infrastructure, spectacular historical and ancient sites, the Athens Acropolis Hill, the Parthenon, the Herod Atticus Odeon, and the Erechtheion make it one of the most visited cities in the world to date.

A stroll through the charming downtown commercial areas of Athens, the Monastiraki Bazaar, and the Plaka Quarters is a must. Observe how the modern changes and characteristics compliment the ancient features as well as how the east and west are fused to create Athens, a unique holiday spot.

Holiday Getaway

Planning your vacation in Greece will surely be difficult because of the many choices it offers. From an active hobbies, leisure interests, or relaxing pastimes, one can surely get confused. Be spontaneous! Discover the country by yourself. Don’t forget to check out the mentioned places to complete your stay in Greece.

So, if you’re planning for a vacation but you have no idea where, need not worry just think Greece!

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The Past of Ancient Egypt In a Nutshell

Photo: Pixabay

The long past Egyptian civilization is a great one, and you will be hard pressed to find someone to who will think otherwise. Ancient Egypt in modern terminology is situated in Africa, in the northwest area. 

The Nile River, in most cases just called the 'Nile', passed through the center of the civilization. The northern part was known as Lower Egypt, and the southern part as Upper Egypt - a fact which has lead to some misunderstanding among tourists. The Nile is understood as the longest river in the world, but recent scientists find that there is a possibility that the Amazon River situated in South America may be a short distance longer. 

Specifically, there are three separate sections or periods of time that Egyptian history can be divided up into. These are known as the Old Kingdom, the Central Kingdom, and the Modern Kingdom. Each period has specific facts which are unique to it, and are best learned and studied independently.

The kingdoms of ancient Egypt were under the leadership of the Pharaoh at the time, and in fact, the ancient Egyptian individuals themselves held the strong expectation that somehow their gods were responsible for choosing each Pharaoh, thus the inhabitants could rest soundly at night, knowing that all was under control. In fact, the government of ancient Egypt can be described as the first national government in the world, and people referred to as viziers, who were officials assigned to the Pharaoh, also helped to rule.

The Egyptian culture, like the Sumerian culture, had a language and writing system of their own. A Papyrus plant was used to make paper - thus defining the origin of the word, paper!

A lot of people find the ancient cultures, Egyptian significantly, to be profoundly mysterious as a result of the incredible massive monuments, most significantly the Great Pyramid at Giza, very close to Cairo, that remains to this day.

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DeWalt Power Tools

DeWalt Power Tools 2014 - Photo: Flickr

The DeWalt power tool collection offers you anything and everything you will ever need in the way of a power tool. They also offer any accessory for these power tools that you can imagine. DeWalt is considered to be a manufacturer of high-quality power tools. You can purchase them online or from any home improvement store. The DeWalt power tool line consists of 200 power tools and 800 accessories. 

DeWalt takes pride in offering power tools that are efficient and long-lasting. The entire business is focused on customer satisfaction. They also put a great deal of time into researching the best operating practices for their tools. Safety is something they take very seriously. You can find safety information for all of their power tools on their website or with any DeWalt power tool. For your safety, read this information before you operate any power tool you purchase from them.

Consumers are very happy with DeWalt power tools because of the selection. You won’t have any trouble finding what you are looking for. They are also reasonably priced and come with a great warranty. They will professionally repair any power tool for you. If the damage is due to a defect they will repair it at their own expense. They may also choose to replace it will a new one. You can also order DeWalt replacement parts for your power tools from the internet. Not sure what part you need? Their website has a complete listing of every power tool. Click on the power tool you have and it will list every part it has. 

All new DeWalt power tools come with a full three-year warranty. The warranty doesn’t cover abuse or normal wear of the power tool. Accessories don’t have any warranty on them. However, DeWalt will gladly exchange them if there appears to be a damaged accessory. Contact them directly or return the accessory to the location you purchased it from. DeWalt extends a 90-day money back guarantee on all their power tools. You can return it even after using it without any questions being asked. I think this says a great deal about the integrity of the DeWalt company and the power tools they sell. 

(This is an older article from the year 2007. Please check the new warranty conditions when buying a new device)

DeWalt understands the customer is the ultimate user of every power tool and accessory. They encourage the consumer to submit information on these products. They want to know about the reliability, concerns, comments, suggestions; anything that can help them make their power tools operate better and easier for the customer. You can submit your comments online or mail them to the DeWalt company. They promise to respond to your submission within six weeks. In addition, DeWalt encourages you to submit ideas you have for additional power tool products. 

In the business of tools since 1927, DeWalt is a leader in the power tool industry. They have proven themselves to be a manufacturer or quality products that are very durable. They also offer excellent customer service for all DeWalt products. You won’t be left alone to figure out anything with a product you purchase from this company. In addition, DeWalt power tools are inexpensive and safe to use as long as you use them according to the operating instructions. Their dedication to safety, customer satisfaction, and their unbelievable warranty ensure DeWalt power tools will continue to be hot selling items.

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Security Cameras Can Provide Safety

Security Cameras - Photo: Pixabay

For some homeowners who want the idea of feeling safer have security cameras installed over their garages aimed at the driveway or street, and possibly another one over their door entrance.  Or at the back door entrance of the home.

Often times these security cameras are basic, and some simply record surveillance, while others can show real-time viewing. The idea of having a security camera allows the homeowners to feel at peace knowing the camera is installed. 

Most of the time if an intruder sees the security camera he or she will do everything possible to avoid the camera, and in essence feel as though there are other additional security measures taken on the house. Such as door alarms or window alarms. In this case, an intruder would initially leave the premises trying to avoid being seen on the security camera. 

Another reason homeowners have security cameras installed might be if they travel a lot, the security cameras video the surroundings while they are away and if any type of vandalism or break-in does occur, the appropriate measures can be taken.

Some apartment complexes have security cameras at the entrance of the establishments for safety reasons as well. Each time a vehicle or person goes through the entrance the security camera overseas, and often times the security cameras can be set to move after a few minutes then move again. At least at one point of a camera's movement in such an area like an apartment complex, the security camera will aim for the tags of vehicles. This is often successful for safety precautions when vehicles that don't belong in the complex are recorded or viewed on the security camera.

Security cameras are used in several different areas for safety purposes. Although in some cases, the cameras are out of view of the public eye. Security cameras are a good source of watching what is going on exactly and no one can lie about incidents that might occur. Especially in heavily populated areas.  Security cameras have increased in use by almost 60% over the last decade. By retailers as well as private use.

So the fact remains obvious that security cameras being used to provide safety measures for a lot of people, even those who don't really like the idea of security cameras being in use. They feel although in some ways it does interfere with their right to privacy they realize the increase of the acts of violence in the United States today. Therefore, they are not going to complain.

If a security camera is in a parking lot and their car is stolen in most cases it can be retrieved, not to mention they have that peace of mind of walking to their cars under surveillance and know that there is a lower risk of being attacked or abducted by someone intending to harm them or hurt them in order to gain access to their belongings or their vehicle. There's just too much crime to not have security cameras in most places today.

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What is the American Society of Criminology?

The American Society of Criminology is one of the best references and sources of information regardless of where an individual life and what country is maintained as their place of residence.  Contrary to the implication in the name of the organization, the American Society of Criminology is actually an international organization that is open to many people.  Annually, the organization hosts a general meeting, and topics are discussed that seem appropriate in which everyone can take part.  The themes are generally vague, but still, give way to important topics.  Recently, the meeting has had the theme of “Criminology, Justice and Public Policy in the 21st Century”.  Since this type of conversation topic does not limit itself geographically, anyone is free to express their concerns or issues when it comes to these matters, as they feel the public will be affected by them in this coming century.  

In addition to offering annual talks for professors, legal-minded individuals and other academics interested in the various aspects of criminology, the law and sociological effects as a result of a crime, the American Society of Criminology is also geared towards helping these people.  There are employment opportunities at the meetings as well, and on their website, the American Society of Criminology actively updates their position and employment posting boards.  As a result, individuals that are going to be graduating from college with a Criminology degree can find on their website a wealth of information pertaining not only to available jobs and markets, but also a resource in the form of networking with like-minded individuals.

Members of the American Society of Criminology are able to enjoy different criminology journals and a newsletter.  The reading materials are helpful for all interested parties because they transmit the information that is changing and being expanded on in the legal and criminology arenas, and will often feature segments on various countries around the world.  There are some specialized regiments within the Society, and members sometimes interact with each other on these specialized levels.  This is again helpful for students looking to break into a specific niche after graduating and those who are particularly interested in specific areas of criminology.  One of the main functions of the Society is to educate people and investigate the many ways in which crime, the criminal element and society are related and dependent upon one another in various manners.  They are open to all willing individuals and encourage interested parties to join or investigate their organization at any point in time.

Within the Society, there is an Executive Board.  This is made up of the President, the President-Elect, the Immediate Past President, as well as the Vice President and the Vice President-Elect.  Those positions are elected.  There are also appointed officers, and these positions are made up of the executive secretary, as well as the treasurer and the editor for one of the Criminology Journals, known as Criminology: An Interdisciplinary Journal.  Six Executive Counselors are also added to the board.  These are the individuals that run the society on the whole; those who form policies, determine the specifics of the Annual Meeting and ratify the Society’s budget.

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Indian Legends and Victorian Bath Houses: The History of Eureka Springs

 View of Eureka Springs from atop Magnetic Mountain (home of Christ of the Ozarks)
Photo: Wikimedia

Today the Arkansas resort town of Eureka Springs is a quaint, faux-Victorian tourist trap with an abundance of Bible-themed attractions. But the knickknack shops and family-friendly dinner theaters are really a natural outgrowth of a long history as a “vacation” destination reaching back to the Native Americans.

Eureka Springs has, unsurprisingly, several naturally occurring, mineral-rich springs, which have long been thought to be possessed of healing powers. In 1856 European settler called Dr. Alvah Jackson took the Indian legends at their word at used some of the water from Eureka’s springs to “treat” an unspecified eye ailment suffered by his son. The ailment healed and his son’s recovery was duly attributed to the spring-water. This led to the founding of Dr. Jackson’s Cave Hospital, where many young men were “treated” with Eureka’s spring water during the American Civil War, and the subsequent Dr. Jackson’s Eye Water business postbellum.

In 1879 Judge J.B. Saunders, a friend of Dr. Jackson’s visited the Basin Spring in Eureka, where he was allegedly cured of some type of degenerative ailment. Thrilled by the upturn in his failing health, the influential judge began promoting Eureka Springs nationwide. Before the end of the year the town of Eureka Springs was home to 10,000 people, and by 1881 it was the 4th largest city in Arkansas.

Eureka Springs soon became famous for its luxuriant Bath Houses. In 1889 The Basin Spring Bath House was built on Main Street; it was 4 stories high, with a bridge to the upper 2 stories arching over the street and providing housing for the water pipes. The 1901 Palace Hotel’s baths used water from the Harding Spring, and featured an electric elevator, electric lights and steam-heating in every room, making it the turn of the century equivalent of a 5-star hotel. At these and other Bath Houses, visitors could slip out of their union suits for a hot or cold or shower, a massage or various kinds of baths: hot air, electric, medicated, radiant, vapor and more. The Palace and the Basin house are still standing today.

As the 20th century began to get its big, bloody, iron wheels turning up to speed, interest in mysticism began to wane, and this included the belief in “healing waters”. The springs began to be more a sideshow than the main event, and most of the Bath Houses closed.

But Eureka Springs hung in there, adapting with the times, to remain one of Arkansas’ premier tourist destinations. Sure, no one comes to be healed, but now they come to get hitched. Eureka Springs has become the Las Vegas of the Ozarks when it comes to quickie marriages (no blood test required), with over 4,000 weddings taking place there every year. Also, there are a lot of shopping opportunities for people who shop on vacation to enjoy. For the faithful, it’s worth the trip to Eureka Springs to gaze upon the 70-foot tall statue of Jesus, called Christ of the Ozarks that soars above the town. Eureka Springs has been packing them in for more than 150 years, now. Who can say why people will be visiting in 150 more?

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