The Success of GENEALOGY Research Lies on DNA TESTINGS

The structure of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA),
the picture shows the monomers being
put together.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There are about 60,000 billion cells found in the human body. It includes muscle cells, cheek cells, and white blood cells. Each cell contains the whole genetic information which is the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). The nucleus inside the cell holds the DNA or chromosomal DNA that consists of Y chromosomal DNA, X chromosomal DNA, and autosomal DNA. The external part of the nucleus holds mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The autosomal DNA comes from both the mother and the father, Y chromosomes are inherited by a son from his father, and mtDNA comes from the mother only.

There are advancements made in testing DNA to meet various areas of interests. For example, the most common uses of DNA are related to finding criminals and proving paternity. But today, genealogy research also uses DNA testing.

For so many years, genealogy has become an important element of society and a favorite hobby of some enthusiasts. Although this is more rewarding, somehow it brings frustrations even to expert genealogists. It can be very time consuming when doing paper research. More often, it can lead to illegible and damaged documents. But, DNA testing provides quick results without questioning its authenticity or quality. Moreover, the genetic genealogy results can endure the tests of time.

1. Mitochondrial testing is utilized for tracing the maternal heritage of a person. The mtDNA testing is very important since genealogists are mostly females. When they marry, maternal lines are often lost because of changing their surnames. In this manner, they can learn and trace their maternal ancestry.

There are advances made in understanding genetics and using laboratory techniques in helping a person to identify maternal lineage through mtDNA tracing services. The distinct mtDNA of person is analyzed and compared to the databases of other samples of mtDNA worldwide, revealing information about the lost ancestry.  

The mtDNA remains nearly unchanged even for so many years. You can share the same type of mtDNA with your mother, maternal grandmother, and maternal great-grandmother. The same exact mtDNA code can track your direct maternal lineage way back from the time where mtDNA code's natural mutation occurred.

Women who are living today can trace their origins 150 thousand years ago through natural mutations or mitochondrial eve.  In connection with matrilineal descent, eve is the common ancestor. But it doesn't necessarily imply that eve is the only woman who lived in that era. There were also other women alive but only the lineage of eve has survived.

2. Y chromosomal DNA testing is the most commonly used form of genetic genealogy testing. Some people can even trace if a deceased man is related to them by conducting this test.

Like mtDNA, Y chromosomes can be also traced back from one prehistoric father, Adam. The DNA mutation of the first Y chromosomes naturally occurs over many generations. Determining the present Y chromosomes can trace your paternal lineage through searching the Y database worldwide.

Moreover, genealogists can find out if two people are related because they have similar surnames through Y chromosomes testing. It is not impossible since, in most cultures, surnames or family names are inherited by children from their fathers like the Y chromosomal DNA.

A successful genealogy research lies on DNA testing because its usefulness is proven as time has passed by.

---

---

Beginner's Guide to Basic Kayaking Equipment

Photo: Pxhere

There isn't a lot of equipment required for kayaking. A kayak and paddle, life jacket, helmet and spray skirt are the recommend basics.

Kayaks for surfing and doing tricks are called playboats. Kayaks for rocky rivers are called creek boats. Traditional river kayaks offer a quick ride and stability. Most kayaking beginners start with the traditional river kayak.

One kayak does not fit all. The size and shape of the kayak are based on the user's height, weight, and the type of water the kayak will be used in. Kayak dealers usually stock demo or demonstration kayaks available for test boating. This allows kayakers to try before they buy. 

Used kayaks cost considerably less than new. Good used kayaks can often be found in the classifieds, online auctions and similar venues.

Finding the right paddle involves getting the length, weight, material and blade shape into consideration, along with the user's height, torso size and paddling style. Tall people, those with long torsos and paddlers who like a slow ride will require longer paddles. Shorter people or those with short torsos and paddlers who like to paddle fast and get the job done will benefit from shorter paddles.

Kayaking paddle materials include wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber and aluminum shafts with plastic blades. The aluminum shaft paddles are a good choice for beginners. 

Many kayakers are already into other water sports and own a life jacket (also known as a personal flotation device). These can be purchased at many discount stores, sporting goods stores and boating equipment stores in addition to online stores and auctions.

Life jackets, also known as personal flotation devices (PFD) are required by law. Choose a PFD rated for the type of kayaking involved. Type III PFD's tend to be the most comfortable for paddling. 

Kayaking helmets should be good quality and fit well. Like other sporting gear, helmets have evolved and now are as much about fashion as function. Users can shop for functional, protective headgear or for functional and fashionable helmets in a wide variety of designs, colors and styles.

Spray skirts are used to seal the cockpit during kayaking and keep water out of the inside of the kayak and keep the kayaker dry. Different types of kayaking require different skirt styles. Whitewater spray skirts are usually made of neoprene. Touring and recreational spray skirts are often made of nylon. Sea kayaking skirt styles may include both neoprene and nylon.

All kayaking spray skirts feature a grab loop. This loop allows the boater to break the seal quickly if necessary. Skirt 

designs include cords for boat attachment, pockets, and adjustable suspenders and waistbands.

Since the spray skirt fits around the wearer's waist, waist circumference is the general standard of sizing. Kayak cockpit size may also apply.

Optional kayaking gear includes a dry bag, a dry top and a spray jacket. The small dry bag is good for protecting and storing snacks and other small items. A dry top is a waterproof jacket good for cold water paddling. Spray jackets are waterproof and available in long or short sleeve styles.

Kayaking gives boaters an opportunity to explore waterways for fun and for relaxation. The size and light weight of kayaks make maneuvering them easy for individuals. Kayaking doesn't require a lot of equipment and doesn't have to be expensive. Most beginners can quickly master the basics but kayaking is a continual learning experience.

---

---

The sunshine state of Australia

Sunshine Coast Queensland - Photo: Pixabay

Blessed with nature’s most remarkable gifts, Queensland is Australia's second largest state; inhabiting 25% of Australia's land mass. 

Queensland has fifteen exceptional regions, where people can travel, be with their families and spend a memorable holiday. Its capital, Brisbane is an excellent base for tours. One of the famous holiday destinations at Queensland is the Gold Coast. Famous of its attractive beaches, theme parks and resorts. Just a little farther north is the Sunshine Coast, undoubtedly, one of Queensland's most scenically beautiful regions. 

A couple of hours away from Sunshine Coast is Queensland’s whale watching capital, the Fraser Coast, having the world’s largest sand island. Immerse yourself with Whitsunday’s breathtaking views. See the beauty of different corals at Bundaberg. Experience bushwalking and bird watching at Toowoomba. Witness the superb touring region of the Western Downs and how about enjoying the delicious fruits of Southern Downs? 

Take a glimpse at the stunning beaches of Townsville. See the reefs, islands, and mountains of Tropical North. Spectacular rainforest and national parks can be seen at Mackay. Also, don’t forget Queensland’s home of hidden treasures, Capricorn.  Take a tour of historic towns and diverse landscape at Outback Queensland. Stopover at the Centre of the Southern Reef, Gladstone, it has a sub-tropical climate with islands, waterways, and beaches. 

Whether you are after beach adventures, walking through historical forest or theme parks, snorkeling under the sea or just having a great holiday of your life, there are definitely great treasured memories ahead of you at Queensland.

Take a tour to Australia. National Visas, can help you get a Visa for Australia. Visit the site for more details. http://www.nationalvisas.com.au/

---

---

The Great War

Photo: Wikimedia

The history of America is decorated with some of the great conflicts that have ever been fought by civilizations and for great ideals.  This was never truer than in World War II which was sometimes called the Great War.  As is so often the case, it was not a war that America wanted to become part of.  So often, it is when aggressors bring the war to America that she is forced to respond.  But in all cases when America responds, it is with a fury that her enemies will seldom forget.

When you think about it, the very idea of a world war is terribly frightening.  And in every way, World War II was a world war because it caught up virtually every country and every continent in a global conflict that went on for years.  The enemies of America and her allies were well armed, intelligent, determined and powerful.  But America was up to the challenge and it will be up to the challenge again if the likes of Hitler dare to threaten civilization like this again.

World War II was also virtually a textbook case of flawless collaboration with our allies.  Working together with them almost like we were one country and one army we deployed our forces across multiple theaters of combat from Europe to Asia to Russia and across the globe.  We had to fight more than one enemy.  Hitler’s Germany alone was a frightening enemy as it spread its evil influence across Europe capturing country after country and threatening to swallow up the continent whole and then move on to capture lands in central Asia and even America.

But we also had powerful enemies in German’s allies, particularly Japan.  When this frightening enemy struck our forces at Pearle Harbor, it was a blow to America that could not be ignored.  For Japan, they had hoped to cripple the American military and remove all hope from the American heart to be able to strike back or become part of the conflict.  They got exactly the opposite as every man, woman and child in America rallied to build the kind of war machine that would bring the Axis powers to a crashing end, no matter what the cost.

But the most important thing that America said to the world when it took on Hitler’s armies and defeated them was that totalitarian rule of free peoples would never be tolerated.  Hitler had dreams of world domination like the great kings of ancient Rome of the early Germanic empires.  But America had thrown off dictators when we founded this country and declared that we would not become the pawn of kings or tyrants.  We were not going to turn over that hard fought freedom to a madman while there was a fighting will be left in this country.

It was not an easy battle or one without cost.  Thousands of America’s youth gave their lives to preserve the freedoms that had been won by our forefathers.  Our leaders had to show a resolve and a unity that they would not blink in the face of a challenge and they would not let down the brave American soldier or the civilian population that stood behind them until Hitler and his allies were in defeat.  

The world saw what America was made of in that great conflict.  It saw that a country that was gifted with great wealth and prosperity was also willing to turn those resources to defend its borders and defend its allies.  It was a stern lesson for our enemies to learn that America was not a country to be trifled with in combat.  But then we showed that we were not a vindictive country when, even in defeat, we reached out to Japan, Germany, and other defeated peoples and helped them rebuild from that awful war.  This too is a testimony to the American spirit and the American sense of fair play.  Let’s hope that an enemy never rises up again to test that will because they will find as Hitler did, that America would not fail to respond to the call to battle or the call to honor which is her legacy.

---

---

What RC Car Accessory You Should Get for a Well-Maintained Car

Photo: Flickr

One of the hottest hobbies on the road today, RC cars and trucks will let you experience the real world of road race tracks and events but no red lights and speed limits for you. You simply drive that RC car or truck of yours and decide on yourself how fast you can go. 

You also got options to choose from. Just like the real automotive world, the radio controlled world of cars and trucks provide the same choices of futuristic concept cars, on-road and off-road cars, entry-level buggy, and monster trucks, and, nitro-powered cars, even mini-cars. 

There are endless options for everyone and RC cars and trucks are for all personalities and ages. The choice is yours; it solely depends on your preference. On the other hand, if you need more information you can get advice from different fellow enthusiasts. 

Again, just like with the “real” on-road and off-road vehicles, radio controlled ones require the same kind of maintenance and care from you. This is to ensure you keep your vehicle in top condition so to avoid failures. 

Maintaining them would include everything from keeping them powered, whether through electricity or nitromethane-based fuel, to replacing parts and accessory. You also must have a certain stock of standard RC car/truck equipment for the maintenance. 

In addition, there are a plethora of accessories that are available for you, which you can get for your RC car. If you want to keep your vehicle always aesthetically pleasing and aggressive or want a higher level of experience on the road, RC car accessories will allow you to attain these.

Accordingly, the following top RC accessories are amongst the components that your car should not go without:

1. Starter boxes. Starting your new vehicle will include break-in of its new engine, which could be a tough process at first. With the starter box, though, this is made easier by eliminating the need to pull-start the RC car. It gives the boost needed by the engine’s break-in; thus your car gets you going in no time. 

2. Fuel. Of course, without the fuel, you won’t go anywhere with this car. There are specially formulated fuel kinds for RC cars, and you can get one, which is recommended by the owner’s manual provided. 

And since you will probably do the refueling job, you might as well include in your purchase a fuel filler bottle, which will fit your car’s need. There are several sizes available, with long, angled tips to allow for a speedy process as well as to prevent spills. 

In addition, a fuel cleaner and rags will be handy accessories in cases there are spills and drips.    

3. Glow plugs. Instead of ending your fun in driving because of glow plug failures, with spare glow plugs, you can change bad plugs along the course. In addition, a small kit stashed in your box will be the best idea. This is usually included with the spare glow plugs, glow plug igniter, glow plug wrench, and charger. 

4. RC tools. These are the specialized tools to keep your vehicle going. A standard RC toolkit usually includes magnetic balancer, gear puller, temperature gauge, tool pouch, and glow plug wrench. 

5. Air Filter Oil. Replacement of the air filter at an interval is a must. In this case, it will always be better if you got special air filter oil with you to improve the function of an air filter and keep the life of the engine longer. 

---

---

Preparing The GARDEN For Winter

A picture of compost soil (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Are you like me?  Sad to see the summer end but at the same time relieved that there is one less task to tend to.  Weeding, watering, pruning, and more weeding is over for this year and with a few more chores the outdoor gardening year draws to a close.  Most of what needs to be completed is a matter of cleaning up and covering up.  Practical steps to preparing your outdoor garden for winter involve:

1.  Protecting plants.  There are different opinions concerning whether to cut down or leave plants standing through the winter.  Here on the prairies, most people leave their perennials standing for a variety of reasons.  In particular, trapping the snow cover is important for the protection of plants and retaining moisture.  Snow cover acts the same as good mulch by insulating the soil.  Many perennial stems and seed heads are also very attractive for winter interest and provide food for the birds.  After the ground freezes, mulch perennials and shrub beds with pine needles, compost, peat moss, or chopped leaves.  This protects the soil and plant roots and moderates the effects of extreme temperature changes during winter periods of freezes and thaws.

2.  Cleaning-up the garden.  Harvest warm-season crops such as tomatoes even though they are still green.  Lie out on windowsills; or layer in boxes with newspapers between the layers of tomatoes.  They will slowly ripen or you can use green tomatoes for fried green tomatoes or various green tomato recipes.  Pull out any remaining crops or spent annuals; clean up remaining debris and weeds to decrease the possibility of disease problems in the spring.

3.  Evaluating your garden design.  Before you start winterizing your garden, take a few minutes to review what worked and what didn’t and make note of any areas that you would like to change in the spring.

4.  Prepare the soil for early spring seeding.  Turn over the garden soil late in the season while amending with organic matter such as leaves, compost, or well-rotted manure.  In the spring, a light raking is all that is needed.

5.  Caring for trees and lawns.  Protect the tender bark of young trees from rabbits and gnawing critters by wrapping stems or trunks with chicken wire or commercial tree-guard products.  To prevent rodents from nesting near buildings and trees, trim tall grass, and remove weeds.  Deeply water trees and shrubs so that they go into winter well hydrated.  Don’t prune shrubs and trees as it may stimulate new growth just before the harsh weather.  Cut lawns and fertilize if you wish with a low nitrogen ‘winter’ blend.  Use grass clippings for mulch or compost.  Never send them to the landfill, as they are excellent fertilizer left on the lawn (if they are not too long) and/or make terrific compost/mulch dug straight into the garden or used for pathways.  Once rotted on garden pathways, dig into the garden and replace with new grass clippings.

6.  Planting before winter.  Now is the time to plant bulbs.  Garden centres carry many varieties suitable for the prairies.  Remember: buy good quality as cheap is not better – the larger the bulb – the larger the bloom.  Look for plumpness, firmness, clean skin, and surface.  Directions for planting are included with the package.

7.  Composting.  Compost dead plant debris including leaves.  Leaves are a valuable natural resource.  Rather than a nuisance, they are the best soil amendment as well as terrific mulches.  Leaves take very little effort to recycle into a wonderful soil conditioner – leaf mould – for the yard and garden.  You can make leaf mould by the same process nature does.  Pile up moist leaves and wait for them to decompose or shred the leaves into smaller pieces before piling them up.  If you wish, you can enclose the pile with chicken wire, snow fencing, or something similar.  In the spring, I rake up dry leaves and dig them straight into the vegetable garden.

8.  Cleaning your tools.  Clean the soil from all your gardening tools, oil any wooden handles and moving parts, sharpen any blades, and then store them in a dry place for the winter.
9.  Water Gardening.  Bring in pumps, drain, clean, refill (if necessary) and store tender water plants prior to freezing.

10.  Bringing in your indoor plants.  Before bringing in any houseplants that have spent the summer outdoors, examine them for critters, wash them, and spray with soapy water or insecticidal soap.  Use sterilized potting soil purchased from garden centres or shopping malls if re-potting your plants.  Don’t use garden soil as it may harbour insects, weed seeds, disease, and fungi.

---

---

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. 

---

---

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!

---

---

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.

---

---

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.

---

---

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.

---

---

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.

---

---

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?

---

---

Bonding with the Universe.

Milk Way - Photo: Pixabay

As parents, we often worry about what our children are getting excited about.  We hope we can guide them to “bond” with healthy things like a love of learning, of family and of healthy social activities.  But we also worry they will bond with the wrong people like internet stalkers or the wrong crowd at school.  Wouldn’t it be great if we could harness that tremendous energy and desire to latch onto something and bond with it and help our children “bond” with the universe through a love of astronomy?

Kids love to get excited about what you are excited about.  So their lots of ways you can “spring” the fun of astronomy on them that will jump-start them on a long and happy exploration of the hobby of astronomy.  Here are a few to get your imagination going.

* Work it into an evening in the backyard.  If you know the night sky will be particularly exciting the night of a big family barbecue, plan to have some blankets out there.  Then as everybody else is playing Frisbee, just lay out a blanket, lay flat on your back and start staring up into the sky with binoculars.  Like the old prank of staring at a faraway spot to get people’s interest, your kids will see what you are doing and what to know what is going on.  As you let them take a peek, their curiosity will take off like a wildfire and they are hooked.

* A surprise visit to the country.  Sometimes it is hard to see the vast display of stars from within the city.  So if you announce that you are going to show them a surprise one night and have them pile into the car, their curiosity will be going wild as you leave the city.  When you find that quiet park, field or lakeside spot, all you have to do is point up and say “just look” and the magnificence of the night sky will do the rest.

* A special Christmas gift.  You can buy your children an affordable and durable beginner’s telescope along with some easy star maps written just for kids.  Imagine when they open this exciting gift and want to know how to use it.  Don’t be surprised if you are setting up the new telescope in the snow to show them the great things they will see in the cosmos with the gift that Santa wanted them to have.  The gift of astronomy.

* Unleash the power of a meteor shower on them.  You can keep your eye on the events that are predicted for the sky watchers in your area.  When the next big meteor shower is about to explode over your area, watch the weather for a clear night and get your kids excited about what they are about to see.  As the lights begin to go off overhead and you create fun and interesting narration to this dramatic display, the children will be addicts for life for the great experiences that can be had as students of astronomy.

* Plan a surprise event in with something you are already doing.  For example, on vacation, you can plan your route on a cross-country trip to bring you within visiting distance of one of the great multimillion dollar telescopes in this country.  By contacting them ahead of time, you can be sure they are conducting a tour that coincides with your visit.  Just imagine if they can look up at a telescope that is bigger than their house and maybe look through the eyepiece as some amazing cosmic sight, it will be the hit of the vacation.

Astronomy is a great activity to introduce on a family camping trip.  As the family sits around the fire after a fun night of camping, all you have to do is just look up and go “Wow, look at that!” When those little heads look up, they will look back down changed children, children in love with the stars.

Astronomy is a healthy passion for your kids and one they can grow with their entire lives.  And there is probably no better gift you can give them than the love of the stars, of science and of nature that is all wrapped up together when your kids bond with the universe through astronomy.

---

---

Bosch Power Tools

Bosch Power Tools - Photo: Flickr

Bosch power tools offer the consumer a full line of both cord and cordless power tools. They offer a large selection of power tools as well as accessories. In addition to the basic power tools that are offered including saws, drills, routers, sanders, nailers, power screwdrivers; Bosch offers some great specialty tools. 

They are designed for specific projects. The Bosch heat gun offers several temperatures as well as two speeds. You can get a Bosh heat gun in several sizes. There are also various accessories available to fit your particular project. These accessories include the heat gun blower, spreader, and reflector. The Bosch foam rubber cutter is an excellent specialty tool that is designed to easily cut through foam rubber and flexible foams. The various blades will assist you with cutting foam this is of varying densities. 

Bosch has some great new power tools on the market. The pocket driver is very compact but very powerful. You can insert 100 screws with one battery charge. The I-Driver is a power screwdriver, designed with a pivot head to get into very tight spaces. The Brute Tough drill and driver is very powerful and versatile. It can be used for a variety of projects.

Bosch offers consumers something not many other power tool manufacturers have. It is called the Flexible Power System. With many of their power tools including drills and saws, you get to choose the minimum weight and the maximum power you want from that particular power tool. 

Are you in the market for several power tools? One of the best selling products offered by Bosch is the five Pak. This is an 18-volt cordless tool kit. The Hammer Drill/Driver is the same as having a drill, a driver, and a hammer. The Circular saw is very powerful and comes with safety features for your protection. There is a reciprocating saw, great for precision cutting. The jigsaw is great for most any kind of cut that takes place away from the outer edge of the materials. 

You will also get a great drop light and a heavy duty bag to carry it all in. As if that wasn’t enough you will also get two battery chargers, a drill bit holder, various saw blades, and two extra batteries. This power tool kit has everything you need to complete a variety of home improvement products at a price of about $500.

If that is more than your budget can handle, consider purchasing reconditioned Bosch power tools. You will be able to purchase them at 40% less than the retail price of that particular power tool. The Bosch website has information on the various reconditioned power tools they have available at this time. They come with a one year warranty and a thirty-day money back guarantee. You will also get a certification of authenticity. 

Bosch takes customer satisfaction very seriously. They strive to meet the needs of every customer. Bosch understands that downtime with your tools affects your productivity. That can cost you time, money, or both. All Bosch power tools are guaranteed to be free from defects. Each comes with a one year warranty, a thirty-day money back guarantee, and a one-year service plan. (2018 ?)

If you need repairs to a Bosch power tool, contact them directly. They work with service providers all over the world who will repair your Bosch power tool quickly and effectively. Generally, this can be done at any location that sells Bosch power tools. You are guaranteed your power tool will be ready within five days. 

You can purchase Bosch power tools at most hardware stores and home improvement stores. They offer reliable power tools at a very comparable price. Bosch power tools are very versatile and meet or exceed the required safety requirements of the industry. You won’t be disappointed with the power tools you purchase from the Bosch brand. 

---

---

The History of Trains

Narrow gauge steam locomotive train -  Photo: Wikimedia

Today you see trains carrying cargo and people all over the world. They are also used as effective ways for people to commute to and from work instead of using the roadways. Looking at the efficiency of trains today, it is sometimes hard to imagine how different they were back in the 1800’s. While many different inventors attempted to create a train in the last 1700’s they weren’t successful.

In 1825 the first locomotive was successful in its attempt to safely transport people from two points in England. The popularity of this mode of transportation quickly made its way to the United States in 1830. It wasn’t long before the industrial revolution was born since trains could be used to transport materials faster and easier than ever before. By 1833 there were 380 miles of railroad tracks in the United States. Today there are more than 300,000 miles of track around the United States.

The United States government made good use of the trains during the Civil War to move troops to new locations and to get the supplies. This was the main reason behind adding more miles of railroad tracks from 1861 to 1865. By the end of the war, there were more than 30,000 miles of track available.

By this time railroads were considered to be the main means of transportation. Plans were in place to continue building faster locomotives and to clear areas for more tracks to be put into place. These early trains were powered by coal and steam. This process of expansion in the railway industry continued into 1916 with more than 250,000 miles of track laid out in the United States. 

One of the most historical locations along these miles of railroad tracks is in Utah and identified by a spike made from pure gold. This was to celebrate the completion of the first transcontinental railroad. This particular location was the connecting point between the Union Pacific and Central Pacific Railroads. This remains a historical site today with thousands of people visiting the very location of that golden spike. 

Even with all the miles of railroad tracks by 1916, many of them are in poor condition. It is not uncommon for many trails to derail due to these conditions. Private owners of the railroads have invested so much money in the expansion they can’t afford the repairs. 

The repairs that do get done are the result of the United States government needed to repair them in order to move men and supplies during World War I. Even so, the growth of the railroad is significantly slowed forever around 1940. The Great Depression has made it difficult for the railroads to survive. There is also competition now with automobiles being manufactured. 

Yet the railroad industry sees renewed life in the late 1950’s when the retired steam-powered locomotives and replace them with diesel engines. In 1970 the United States government steps in again to take control of Amtrak. They still oversee it today but most of the miles of track that they operate on belong to other railway companies.

With modern technology, trains are able to operate more efficient today than ever. They are used to transport large amounts of merchandise, food supplies, equipment, hazardous materials, and even people. Trains offer a great way to get items delivered efficiently without having to place more of a burden on the trucking industry. Many travelers enjoy the convenience of taking a train instead of driving themselves or riding in an airplane. 

There have been plenty of advances in the area of trains and the railway industry in the last 100 years. It will be interesting to know how things change over the next 100 years. Luckily there are wonderful train museums that take the time to preserve all of the histories of trains from the beginning. This way future generations will be able to look back on it as well. 

---

---