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Important Advice for Golfing Novices

Important Advice for Golfing Novices

Article by Focke

Warren LinckleAt one time, one of your friends might have treated you to a game of golf and took a few swings and made the decision that you wanted to learn how to play the right way. However, before you rush out and purchase everything that you see, to become an actual golfer, you must learn a little about the game first. This article will give you a few important suggestions to help when you begin learning about golf.If you have never played the game before, you probably want to race to the store and buy the most expensive golf clubs that money can buy. However, this is the wrong thing to do if you have not played the game previously. In fact, your first few games of golf should be played with rental clubs until you determine whether or not you like the game. Why waste money before you are positive that you like the game and want to play it on a constant basis. If you have gotten hooked and have played a few games, then you might consider getting a set of customized golf clubs. Although they are not cheap, they can be valuable because of the thickness of the grip to the length and the stiffness of the shaft The easiest approach to learning or improving your golf game is to hire a professional instructor. However, you will need to benefit the most from your instructor, since you will be paying money New York Yankees Jerseys for his time.This means that you have to get your shyness in check and talk to him. If something does not seem logical to you, then let your instructor know. You shouldn’t be afraid to tell them what your goals are and what problems you have been having. Also, try to remain unruffled. This is because if you’re nervous, you will swing too quickly and you won’t be able to concentrate. You must focus on the game and instructor or you are wasting valuable time and will not learn a thing.Having a great golf swing is the key to having a great golf game. Owning the perfect golf swing consists of many different factors. But one of these aspects consists of obtaining the proper aim.Numerous golfers place their feet to the right of their mark and end up swing too far to the left. The smartest method for aligning yourself is to have your toes parallel to the target, with the head of the club facing in the direction you want to the ball to go. On the same note, if you desire a good distance swing, then you need to generate some strength. While strength is important to generating sufficient power, your swing also plays an important role. The way to generate the optimum amount of power is to turn so that your left Oakland Athletics Jerseys shoulder is over your right foot on the backswing. Whether you choose to go it alone or get professional help to improve your game, these tips will come in handy. Don’t forget that your game will perk up when you are better relaxed. So, do not get all worked up about little things. Besides, you are playing golf to have fun.

About the Author

MLB Jerseys, Baseball Jersey

The Real Benefits of Hosted PBX

The Real Benefits of Hosted PBX

Article by Yung Kim

Hosted PBX has been prevailing in market for quite some period, but only recently its clubbed with many new features. It has started attracting the business peoples of all levels regardless of their breadth and width. The earlier stage when this technology was launched it was considered as quiet a complicate process due to its capability of multi functionality. But now after visualizing its use and comparatively easy to manage technology, many professionals have started turning towards hosted PBX.

The benefits of hosted PBX are really tremendous when compared to its maintenance and easy handling. Hosted PBX is a visual phone, which comes with enormous features clubbed together in order to perform successful and non-tangible business. It has many superior and helpful features for businessmen like automatic voice call facility, call forwarding and diverting options, caller id tool, toll free enhancement, auto answer and divert, multiple voice mailboxes, complete overview of the system through a single window over web access and easy setting options.

Basically the most important benefit of hosted PBX is considered to be its no labor policy. There is no need of any receptionist to attend and transfer our calls, no separate customer care executive to attend to product feed back and no maintenance or repair work needed. Once installed, it can all be made into your own control which is quiet manageable and gives you the ease of knowing all the company happenings directly and genuinely.

Hosted PBX is definitely a centralized intelligence service, which allows your employees or consumers to be hooked up to you through the always-accessible option we provide them through it. Toll free number can be easily associated with the help of hosted PBX where our customer feed can increase to more than 30% than earlier. And 800 number services, apart from being a medium of getting feed back through customers also hikes the company’s or firm’s impression among public.

We can also organize our voice mail in such a way to direct the callers to different category of options and help them identify their purpose of call and post their queries, service requirement or comment under the relevant option. So that it is a better way for us to organize our calls and also makes us boosts the impression of the firm by exhibiting so many divisions in it.

The call forwarding option while pre-set helps us to be accessible where ever we are, which means a lot, for not missing any of our big business deals by assuring all time availability despite of the fact where ever we are. It is clubbed with several other such additional features like voice mail system, multiple voice mail options, out going voicemail messages and through setting up our call forwarding numbers along with message delivery.

With the possibility of web access all these process gets even more simpler through our ‘view and control’ over the entire summary of our incoming and out going communications in business including local, long-distance and broadband through a single window. And the setting for all branches of hosted PBX service is available in our fingertip. The applications are in short endless. Hence there lye our smartness in being aware of the benefit of hosted PBX and installing them at the earliest before our competitors do.

About the Author

Yung Kim is editor of Vodawi and is an expert in wireless, telecommunications, and networking.

Striped Bass Fishing in Cape Cod Bay

Striped Bass Fishing in Cape Cod Bay

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Striped Bass fishing in Cape Cod Bay can be fantastic. There are many good areas to fish right off the beach, from jetties, from piers and of course from a boat. The Cape is well known for striped bass and is definitely one of the best locations to fish to striped bass. Race Point off of Provincetown is world famous for sport fishing. And there are many great charter boat captains on the Cape. We filmed a great striped bass and bluefish show called Fishguts, with Ed McDonough, Al Howard and Capt Rich Schelle onboard The Schelfish out of Plymouth. Many of the shows were from Race Point as well as Plymouth.

Another fantastic location to fish for stripers is Billingsgate Shoals off of Wellfleet. It seems on most days when you go for striped bass you will catch fish as long as you pay attention to the feed. This year looks to be a great year.

Stripers must be at least 28 inches to keep, and you can only keep two stripers of that size or larger per angler.

Another great spot for striped bass fishing in Cape Cod Bay is known as The Fingers. The Fingers can be a very lucrative spot in mid summer during the midnight tides. I prefer the black Fishguts Chum Tube Eel trolled at a slow speed of 2kts using lead core line. We have caught several fish over 40lbs in the area.

There are a number of ways to fish for Bass. You can cast bucktails, rubber eels, kastmasters or hopkins lures. The retrieve should be very slow. Of course the speed should be varied if you do not get any hits. An angler can also bottom fish for stripers. By that I mean he/she can use mackerel chunks and cast a weighted line out off the beach, pier or boat and let it sit on the bottom. Some fisherman prefer a float to keep your bait off the bottom and away from the crabs that will otherwise eat it.

Chumming also works very well with striped bass fishing in Cape Cod Bay. Chumming is done by setting out a chum slick of clams, pogie oil, mackerel chunks etc.. This can be expensive but it works. Remember not to over chum. Entice to fish to that boat but do not over feed them. After the chum slick is started, throw a live eel or float a fresh piece of bait similar to what your slick is and let it drift out with you chum. It shouldn’t take that long before you’re hooked up.
Some anglers swear by live eels and they do work well. There have been many books written on this quarry. I could go on and on about striped bass fishing but I can only give some of the pointers in this article.

My final tip is that the only way to catch a bass is to get out there and give it a try. You can catch striped bass from the beach, fishing piers, jetties and boats. And don’t forget to get children involved in sporfishing. It gives them lasting memories and is an excellent alternative to drug abuse. And remember that if you are not going to eat the fish, practice catch and release.
See ya on the water.
Tight Lines
The Captain

Secrets Revealed! How to Fish For Cod – By an Expert

Cod is one of the most sought after fish in fishing season and is available surfing near the shore. And, the best season to catch mature cod is in winters. You can find various fishing clubs and holiday resorts that offer great cod fishing trips with discount offers and all the facilities for fishing in North Atlantic, North Sea, and the whole of the Arctic. A fat Cod female produces about 10 million eggs. Just imagine what a great fishing experience Cod fishing offers.

It’s for sure that fishing is a great holiday adventure but do you know How to Fish for Cod? And, if you do not know, it’s better if you learn how to fish for cod and then step onto the adventure pad.

Initially you need to know when and at what time cods are available near shores. The best season to catch cod fish is cold winter and especially when tide is fast and high. This is the right time when sea is full of food and you can catch ample of them near shore and especially during nights. Next on the ladder is the kind of rods, tackles and net that has to be used in catching Cod/codling. Cods are real heavy fishes so make sure that you have a good rig and heavy cast so that you can pull at them with ease. It would be better if you keep extra rigs ready with bait since cods hunt for food in groups of 5-6 and as soon as cod hits the surf you may have enough chance to get two or three of them in a go. Make sure that your cast can go as deep as 6oz sinker and bait up to 100 yards.

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The best way of learning How to fish for Cod is by practicing on a lonely beach since during full season, beaches are bustling with fishing and you, being novice won’t be able to keep the grounds. You can take 18-20 foot beach caster for practicing cod fishing. One of the most important aspects that you should keep in mind regarding fish line is that it should be around 35-40lb as cods are heavy fishes. Choose the spot from where you are going to do fishing and then mark the ground with tripod. After that walk 50-60 yards up the tide and the distance may vary in accordance with the speed of the tide and wind. Don’t give jerks when hook gets cod into it as tidal waves may rip the hook from line. When you feel that cod has hit the surf loosen the clutch of fish rod a little.

Now, the basic points need to be considered when you have leant how to fish for cod includes:
o Never tread into deeper zones into the sea all alone. It would be advisable to take an experienced angler along even when you have already learned how to fish for cod.
o Carry along means of communication so that you may call for help in the event of an emergency.
o Prepare a checklist of the angling/cod fishing tools and equipments that you are required to carry.
o Don’t fish in rough tides or heavy seas as it can be dangerous for your life. Wait for the tide to calm down.

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Spring Fishing at Block Island

At this time of the year, a mixture of cod, pollack, ling, blackfish, and occasional big flounder can be found here. Since there was a very weak current, we elected to drift rather than anchor.We had two rods baited with fresh skimmer clams, and two rods were rigged up with 8 ounce jigs and teasers. All were sent down in the 60 foot water depth as we drifted over some nice structure. Nothing much happened, so we set up for another drift. This time, the two jig rods got hit on the way down. After a spirited battle, an undersized cod came up, followed by a nicer keeper sized fish. Several more drifts produced nine keeper sized cod, so we headed to a very sticky piece of bottom nearby in the hopes of bagging a few blackfish or maybe some ling. We anchored on the spot and after weeding through the onslaught of bergalls finally got a nice little blackfish bite going, with a nice mess of ling in the mix.

Although bottom fishing at Block Island is a still a shadow of its former self, it still has its moments. The productive bottom holds cod, pollack, ling and blackfish in reasonably decent numbers from mid- March through most of May. Once the big fluke and striped bass show up, this fishing tends to thin out as the hordes of dogfish begin to make their presence known. The nice thing about fishing here is that you can target several different type of fish in the same general area.

I generally start out a trip looking for cod. You can find the fish in water as shallow as 50 feet and as deep as 150 feet. I have found that if there is still some forage as mackerel or herring in the water, it is more effective to use metal jigs than clam baits. Any of the popular jigs that imitate a mackerel or a herring will work. I like to use a combo rig consisting of a cod jig on the mainline with a teaser rigged some 15 inches ahead of the jig. I use a 6/0 Sproat type hook connected to the main line via a dropper loop. I add a plastic skirt to the hook and it is finished off with a jelly worm or grub. You send the whole thing to the bottom, crank in a couple of turns, and vigorously jig the rig up and down. Sometimes the fish will hit on the upswing, and other times they will grab it on the way down. If there are any pollack in the area, they can’t resist this rig.

At times the cod will only take clam bait. The standard two hook bottom rig is most effective . One 6/0 Sproat hook is attached to the main line about a foot above the sinker, and a second hook is attached a foot above that hook. If there are some ling in the area, you can switch the hook down to a 4/0 size since the mouth of the ling is much smaller than the cod. It seems that the numbers of ling are definitely on the upswing, as more and more of these tasty bottom dwellers are appearing in the catches.

Also found in this mix is the blackfish. Although they are not found in the same numbers as the fall, there are enough of them around to make a nice day, especially when they are mixed with some cod and ling. The standard Virginia type hook, around a #4 or #3 will work fine. If there are any big flounders around, they will succumb to a #4 or #5 Virginia hook as well.

Among some of my favorite spots around Block Island at this time of the year includes the Appletree Grounds which is a series of obstructions that can be found about three miles south of the Island. The water depth can range from 90 to 100 feet and both cod and blackfish can be found here. Another great spot is called the Gateway area, and lies about four miles southeast of Block Island. The water depth is around 130 feet here and both cod and an occasional pollack can be found here.

When looking for flounder and blackfish, I tend to favor some of the more shallow water spots that lie in 40 to 50 feet of water right off the southwest corner of the Island. You can catch both species on the same anchor drop. Look for the high pieces and set up on that for the blackfish.If that doesn’t produce, let out enough anchor line so that you are just on the edge. Put down a chum pot or crack some whole skimmer clams if the tide isn’t screaming. There are almost always a couple of big flounder hanging around the edges. Sometimes there are little pods of small pollack that show up on these spots as well,

So if you are looking to fill the freezer with some tasty fillets for the summer, springtime at Block Island is the way to go.

Esca is a new invention from a Norwegian company called Esca Global A/S. This company has combined a natural phenomenon which has been around for millions of years to fishing lures. In the night or at deep depths different creatures in the sea have evolved a light organ to navigate or attract other fish, either for spawning or for catching prey fish.

The company has through years of development made small units which create light. These can be placed near lures or baits to attract any kind of fish. Research during a long period proves that this is super effective because most fish species are naturally attracted to light in the evening or night.

The units contain materials which reacts with the salt molecules and develop light. Because it demands a certain amount of salt in the water it is limited to be used in saltwater and brackish water. However, it is possible to use this new invention for those who do pike fishing in the sea as pike manage to live and reproduce in brackish water.

This unit generates its own energy just by being in water with saltiness, and it last at least 100 hours in the water. Just attach this unit in front of or between the lure and hooks of your pike lures or other fishing lures and expect more catches. We guarantee much better fishing results. Esca weighs 9 grams, have either blue or green colors and have different blinking frequency. Check out this new revolutionary invention and get ahead of your fishing friends.

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Guiding You On Saltwater Fishing Tackle Use

Guiding You On Saltwater Fishing Tackle Use

Many aspiring fishermen have many things to learn. It takes practice and research to get ahead in fishing as a career or a leisure activity. For instance, learning about fishing tackle is very basic and important. Tackle refers to any equipment or gear one would use for doing any fish-catching activity. In this piece of writing, you will briefly discover more about saltwater fishing tackle. This type of gear is necessary when catching saltwater fish. Since there are many items involved, we will discuss a few best techniques and the necessary tackle.

Trolling is one of the most appropriate methods of catching salt-water creatures. It involves a lure or bait, rigged and towed a distance behind a boat in motion. As far as trolling equipment, it is up to you to decide if a reed and rod would be necessary. After all, even a simple hand line can be a good substitute. The decision you would finally make should really depend on your level of trolling experience. Secondly, you have to decide on the suitable types of natural and artificial baits to use.

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These lures should be at a given distance behind and sink a few feet below the water level. Trolling wire lines are also important saltwater fishing tackle. Their substitutes include a planer, paravane and so on. The circle hooks are best for boat fishing. Jigging is the second method you can use from a moving boat. The mackerel feathers, sinkers and handlines are some of the traditional tackles necessary for this method. The new age lures include the Hokkai, soft plastic such as jellyworms and shads.

There is still other gear used for advanced modern jigging. Drift fishing style happens from boat propelled by strong winds and ocean currents. Use of baited hook, balloon float, mackerel bait, and hand lines are some of the basic gear. For bottom fishing, you should aim at creatures that thrive on the seabed. The tools necessary in this case would depend on the calmness of the sea. When there is low or no tide at all, you can use hooked bait and a paternoster rig.

Drop the equipment uprightly to the seabed. When tide is high, swap your tackle and this time; use a ledger rig and weight to push the baited hook to the seabed again. Lines are necessary too because they will help you push down the weight to the sea bottom. There are other offshore salt-water methods, including surfcasting, float, fly-fishing and bait casting.

None of them is possible without certain salt-water fishing equipment. Would you like to learn more about this? The easiest and quickest way of learning is using the web. Look for books and other resources that can aid the understanding you have so far. To do the shopping, you should look for stores that do this kind of saltwater fishing tackle business. It would also be necessary to read product reviews that you will come across on the Internet. Reading reviews would open up more opportunities for you to know the best fishing equipment brands, price ranges and other issues.

G. Smitty is a writer who loves to discuss many topics ranging from wholesale fishing tackle to professional basketball. Thanks for reading!

Three Pieces Of Equipment Every New Golfer Should Have

Three Pieces Of Equipment Every New Golfer Should Have

Article by Tom Jones

You don’t need as much equipment as you’d think when you first start golfing. Until you’ve learned more of the basics of the game, you won’t need all the bells and whistles that are available. You won’t really benefit from the more advanced equipment until then. Keep the following important tools in mind as you assemble your beginner golf kit.

The first item you should spend money on is a decent driver. The first thing you need to be aware of is that there are some “specialty” drivers which aren’t quite certified by the PGA. In accordance with where you are and what your ambitions as a golfer this might not be a glitch for you. When you talk about drivers, everyone has their unique needs. On the whole, drivers with flexible shafts allow more distance, however less domination. If you have issues with hooks, slices, or rogue balls you may choose to forfeit distance for additional control by utilizing a steel shafted driver.

You should also take a bit of time to delve into the most comfortable shaft length for you to utilize prior to spending money also. This will take some testing to ascertain what the best length is, yet it will be time well spent in terms of lower amounts of back pain after 18-holes.

Ball markers are also important.They are especially important if you’re playing in a group. These markers are used to mark where your ball stopped on the green and won’t interfere with the play of the others in your group. Etiquette demands that the person farthest from the hole plays first. So without a ball marker to mark your ball’s spot, it could interfere with the play of the other balls on the green. These inexpensive markers are necessary for a good game when playing with a group.

Protective eyewear is the final investment beginners need to make. Many beginning golfers overlook the importance of this piece of equipment. The fact remains that you play golf in elements and in the daytime. Not protecting your eyes from the sun can result in serious damage. Not only will it be easier to see where you want your ball to go if you don’t have to constantly shield your eyes, but you can keep better track of where actually goes,

Beginner golf equipment doesn’t have to be expensive but if you buy the right equipment, it can add years of enjoyment to your game. Whether you’re just learning golf or returning to it, it can be easy to get distracted by the fancy bells and whistles that are now available. You’ll be in great shape, however, if you stick with the beginner golf equipment mentioned above.

About the Author

Tom’s websites: Barbie Igrice, Car Transporting Companies, EvaAirlines and Fema Trailers for Sale.

Think Your Way to Single Figure Handicaps

Think Your Way to Single Figure Handicaps

Article by Tony Bryan

When you stand on the first tee, whether it be a Saturday morning four-ball or a medal round, or something a little more serious that that, what is the main thought in your head?

Your really shouldn’t be thinking about how thirsty you’ll be at the end of the round and the cold beer is going to taste just great, should you? Perhaps you had a great Friday night, and the tail end of it still lingers in the mind! So, just what should be in your mind? If you don’t know then your golfing life could be quite miserable.

Did you arrive 15 or 20 minutes before your tee time, or have you rushed to the club just in time to make the slot with your name on it? If the latter, again your golfing life will be jaded, to say the least!

Why am I saying this? – because I’ve been there and done it. So this is the voice of experience saying – clear your mind of everything and concentrate on your golf.

Now, you’re on the first tee you’ve pulled the driver out of the bag and the tee is in the ground with a Dunlop 65 on it (yes, its brand new!) and this is the first shot of the round. Did you line up correctly? Are you standing with the feet pointing in the right direction – not slightly off line because that will not only affect your swing path, but could cause you to slice or hook the ball. Are your shoulders in line with your feet – did you check all these LITTLE things?

You see, golf is not a game of brawn, but mainly of brain. You must THINK! Never worry about distance, because if you try to hit the ball hard, you could move your body from the correct plane, causing all sorts of problems. Swing gently (I don’t mean softly) but with a swing that will stay on plane, and you will remain on balance. Don’t misunderstand me, I’m not saying you must think nothing but golf, but concentration on what you are doing is vitally important.

When you play a shot, try and shut out all noises, conversations with other players, because if you don’t there will be something that will distract you. This will apply to every shot you make whether or not it is with a wood, a long iron, a wedge, or the putter. Concentration is so important I can’t stress it enough.

Golf is such a popular game today, and it’s popularity is increasing at an alarming rate, and more and more youngsters are taking it up. I said earlier that this a game of brain, and if you don’t use that little grey matter to think your way round the course, go and take up tiddly winks.

If you watch the professionals in tournaments they never stop thinking. If you see them in conversation its usually with their caddy, and then its not about anything other than the game in hand! If you want to play good golf with good scores, you’ll emulate them and use all your powers of concentration on the next shot – which you should never decide upon until you get to the ball and see how it is lying.

As I say, think your way to lower scores and consequently lower handicaps. After all, that is why we play the game isn’t it – to beat not only our opponent but the course as well!

Happy Golfing and God Bless(C) All rightsd Reserved

Tony Bryan – The Audio Ebook Guy.

Tony is a retired Finance Director, single handicapgolfer and author of the Audio Ebook – Golf The Short Game.Other audio ebooks are in the making.http://www.tony-bryan-theaudioebookguy.comThis article may be reprinted as is, without alteration but MUSTinclude this Bio.

About the Author

Tony bryan is a retired Finance Director, a single handicap golfer and author of the audio ebook Golf – the Short Game (C) athttp://www.tony-bryan-theaudioebookguy.com

Touring for Birds

Touring for Birds

Article by Neo James

Building and decorating a bird house is something that parents and kids can do together. It is relatively cheap and can provide hours of entertainment even after the project is completed. The first thing you need to do when identifying birds is to learn how to recognise a certain group of birds like warblers, flycatchers, hawks, owls and wrens. These all share certain similarities. As you get better at this you will be able to distinguish a certain species from the group as a whole.

Here’s one other practical feature that you will fall in love with; stainless steel bowls that are only accessible from outside the cage. This is a must have if your bird is a “biter”.

But on the other hand, a carefully cared for, high quality powder-coated bird cage can last 10+ years. So what makes a cage simple to clean? Know What Species to Expect. There are approximately 900 species of birds in the United States and recognizing each of them is nearly impossible. So when you visit an area, do a little research first.

Touring for Birds

Bird watching tours are a popular form of alternative vacation. Bird watching itself is one of the world’s largest hobbies, especially in America, Europe, and Asia. There are actually many different kinds of tours you can take for birdwatching; some mix wildlife viewing in general, while others are primarily dedicated to avians. Here are a few vacation options you’ll want to look at if you’re considering this:

Wildlife Preserves – tours hosted by wildlife preserves provide great opportunities for bird watching. You’ll be able to see the birds in their natural environment, as well as enjoy the spectacle of their interaction with other forms of wildlife in the area. These tours require a sharp eye though, as birds in preserves will usually be viewed from a distance.

Aviaries and Bird Sanctuaries – these are dedicated tours for birdwatchers that take place inside special forms of wildlife preserves that house only birds. These tours are fun because the tours are designed to showcase birds, period. While wildlife preserves show a variety of animals, aviaries showcase birds in huge screen cages, making it easier to see them up close.

Additionally, binoculars with built-in digital cameras enable you to identify birds once you get home. These benefits will definitely enhance your bird watching. A great pair of binoculars will turn a mediocre experience into a great one. You can count on it!

The top two ways to give your bird stimulation on a daily basis are: toy hooks & playtops. There’s no need to explain why toy hooks are stimulating, they just are!

The materials needed to make your own hummingbird feeder are clear prescription vials with a fitted cap, a few feet of thin wire or heavy thread and transparent tape or scotch tape.

Most families immediately think that they can choose between getting a cat or a dog simply because those are the most popular pets to have. Before you run out and purchase the perfect kitten or puppy, consider choosing a bird to be your family pet instead.

If you are buying an actual antique, prepare to pay a hefty price. Be on the lookout, though, at garage sales and flea markets. Sometimes you can find an undiscovered treasure for mere pennies. Wildlife Bird Watching Tour – these are guided tours through wilderness areas which mostly hold a lot of different indigenous species of birds. They are similar to a trip taken through a wildlife preserve, except that this type of tour actually takes you on an extended jaunt into a jungle, forest, desert, or other area of wilderness. This is a bit uncomfortable if you’re not an outdoors type person, but offers birdwatchers one of the most rewarding and personal experiences they can have.

Bird Ecolodges – these are living quarters which can be booked like hotel rooms. What makes them so special is that they are situated in an outdoor area where flocks of birds tend to congregate heavily; allowing the people in the lodge to view the birds to their heart’s content. An added feature of the better-designed ecolodges is that their exteriors are built to appear as part of the landscape, so that animals will not be shy of the presence of concrete and steel. While this doesn’t work on animals that can detect foreign things by scent, birds are generally fooled by the appearance of an ecolodge, and will actually land within meters of it without alarm.

Annual Conventions – these offer unique opportunities for all bird watchers. Aside from socializing with fellow enthusiasts, some bird watcher conventions are held at times and places that coincide with the migrations of certain birds. Attendees of these conventions often go to them just for the chance to see migrating flocks of birds that they would not see at regular times. Okay, most people are not informed enough to make a good decision when buying a bird cage. That’s really not good, because if you’re buying a good quality cage it isn’t going to be cheap, and if you are paying a decent amount of money, you need to get the best product you can get for that money!

Do not buy a generic bird cage, it will most likely come without a manual, without a tech support phone number, and without a decent warranty.

When buying online, however, be sure to weigh in the shipping costs to determine if you are truly saving over buying local. We may have the best intentions to let our bird spend most of his time out of the cage. But there will still be times when he needs to be in his cage.

If you are a new bird watcher, we urge you to joing a bird watching forum. After you have brought your bird bath home, find a place to set up the bath well within sight of your outdoor and indoor spaces.

About the Author

How do bird watchers strive to entice birds to their yards? Find out at http://www.bird-watch.info

You Don’t Have to Be Bubba Watson or John Daly to Hit the Golf Ball 300 Yards

You Don’t Have to Be Bubba Watson or John Daly to Hit the Golf Ball 300 Yards

The average distance of the top 100 Golfers in the world is 280 Yards….these guys are the best players in the world and they aren’t hitting it that much further than the average golfer (AND the fairways on the PGA Tour are probably the same speed as most golf courses’ greens).

SO, what does this mean for you? Well, I’ve broken down the steps you can take that will instantly improve your driving distance. There’s nothing stopping you to averaging what the pros do!

1. Get a Driver with a Higher Loft

– My buddy used to have a 7.0 degree Driver (I’m not sure why exactly – maybe he thought it was cool) and used to average 270 yards off the tee. He switched to a 9.5 degree Driver and now averages 290+.

– A higher loft gives you more carrying distance and the same amount of roll; however, it needs to be fitted properly to your swing in order to reap the benefits.

2. A Driver that is Custom-Fitted

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– Take the time to get your Driver fitted properly by going to a Golf Shop and working with a professional. If you can’t afford a new Driver or just bought one, still go and get the shaft optimized for your swing.

– By doing just this, you can gain an extra 20-yards overnight.

3. Having the Proper Setup

– Wide stance (just past shoulder width apart)

– Shoulders at an angle (back shoulder is lower than the front) allowing you to hit the ball on your upswing (higher trajectory = more distance)!

– Ball positioned off the front toe.

– Flare out your front toe (at a 45 degree angle – no further) forcing you to clear your hips and lower body more quickly. You’ll notice the difference.

4. Confidence

– Most of the time when golfers hit bad shots it’s because they are thinking too much about the mechanics of their swing vs. the execution or “emotion” of the shot about to be played.

– Focus on your confidence – meaning that in your mind, you know that you’re going to step up and hit it long and straight down the middle. You will consistently hit better shots doing this vs. thinking about how far to take the club back or to make sure you follow through correctly.

BONUS: Learn to Hit a Draw

– It’s a fact – a draw or hook travels further than a fade or slice. If you can learn to hit a draw you WILL add at least 10 yards to your drives.

– Close your stance, bring the club back inside, and fully release your hands.

– One thing to be cautious of is that a draw is more difficult to control than a fade, which means that the odd time your draw will turn into a hook (this happens even to the pros). My recommendation is to not hit a draw all the time, but to utilize it when you need a bit of extra distance.

Want to learn the basic fundamentals of the golf swing that ALL great golfers use? Learn them in my Free Quick-Fix Guide to Better Golf: http://www.play-par-golf.com/quickfixguide/

Volkswagen’s CrossGolf

Volkswagen’s CrossGolf

Article by Natalie Anderson

Volkswagen doesn’t like gaps in its range so if it has one you can bet that it will fill it in. Just take for instance Golf. The automaker was not content just by having three and five-door Golfs such as the Golf-based Touran, a forthcoming Golf Estate and a Golf-based Tiguan 4×4. The German automaker didn’t stop there but continued until it was able to launch its CrossGolf.

The CrossGolf is given the “Plus” which is based on another niche variant and a lifestyle model that answers the needs of buyers who want the fancy looks of an off-roader but not its mud-plugging ability.

The CrossGolf was built by Volkswagen to compete with other sector spanning cars like Dodge’s Caliber and Nissan’s Qashqai. The CrossGolf is a cross breed of MPV and SUV. It was given chunky plastic bumpers all-round, a neat silver air intake at the front, bordered by fog lights and silver roof rails that are added to the Plus’ bland shape to perk things up. The vehicle is also given a 20mm increase in ride height. Its 17-inch alloy rounds up the sporty, off-roader looks that it projects.

The interior provides a contrast to the colors in the rest of the cabin. The air vents and pedals are given silver finished. It also has a three-spoke leather steering wheel plus a hide gaiter and trims on the gearlever. In terms of practicality it is just as good as any regular Golf Plus with plenty of headroom whenever you’re sitting. Its sliding rear bench also provides some useful versatility.

Unfortunately because of the extra ride height added to the CrossGolf it’s not as swift as Golf or even a Plus. The suspension set-up is also quite firm probably to control body roll caused by the vehicle’s higher centre of gravity.

Another comment on the CrossGolf is in terms of riding comfort especially on rough surfaces or potholed urban streets–it’s not very comfortable. But in fairness to this vehicle its steering is very accurate aided by decent brakes and disregarding the negatives it can be concluded that the overall driving experience is alright.

In terms of off-roading it will be limited to grassy lanes since there’s no four-wheel-drive syste, to haul the car if ever it got into a sticky situation. The CrossGolf is much suitable on runway than on softer surfaces.

The CrossGolf is offered in three familiar Volkswagen motors: the 100bhp 1.6-litre petrol or 104bhp 1.9 and 138 bhp 2.0 diesel options. Add to it a 138bhpversionof the firm’s new turbocharged and supercharged 1.4 liter TSI unit. Delivers a revving 220Nm of torque it feels exactly the same as a deep-chested diesel at low engine speeds. And as the turbocharger seamlessly takes over above 3,000 rpm there’s even more punch for overtaking.

And of course since it’s from Volkswagen it will be hooked up with superb twin-clutch DSG semi-automatic gearbox. It is also equipped with top-of-the-line auto parts like Volkswagen cold air intake plus safety features that include new ESP stability control that provides counter steering if ever the car detects that it’s going to skid, six airbags and a brake assist.

The German automaker is still considering whether to bring the CrossGolf to the UK. If in case it does reach the American shores it will have a base price of

Shutter Hardware–an Essential Glossary

Shutter Hardware–an Essential Glossary

Are you are preparing to install functional shutters on your home? Or perhaps you already have shutters, and you’re looking to give them a facelift by replacing the old, rusty hardware with something new? By now, you’ve probably realized that when it comes to functional shutter hardware, there are a myriad of parts to choose from. This essential glossary will describe and define the many different components of shutter hardware.

Various Shutter Hardware Components:

Plate Pintel–Pintels are the rod or pin upon which the hinges turns. A plate pintel is a pin mounted on a plate, and the plate attaches to the house with screws.

Lag Pintel–This type of pintel is attached to a lag screw (a long, pointed screw that goes into the wood or brick mold that surrounds the windows).

Shutterdog–A shutterdog is an S-shaped part (sometimes also referred to as an S-Holdback) that attaches to your house with a lag screw and hold the shutter against the house in an open position. The shutterdog spins on the lag screw, and is weighted at one end, so that it stays in an upright position. When you want to close the shutter, just turn the S-shaped part to free the shutter, allowing it to close.

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Rat Tail Holdback–Like a shutterdog, the rat tail holdback is another way of holding a shutter back against the house, in an open position. It is mounted to the house on a lag screw, and is weighted at one end to keep it in an upright position. The bottom part of the rat tail holdback is curved around to fit over the shutter and hold it in place. When you want to close the shutter, just turn the rat tail holdback to free the shutter, allowing it to close.

Acorn Holdback–Acorn holdbacks (also referred to as bullet catches) can be used as a substitute for shutterdogs and rat tail holdbacks. The acorn shaped part attaches to the house on a lag screw, and the catch is mounted to the back of the shutter. When the shutter is opened, the acorn and catch engage and hold the shutter against the house.

Center Slide Latch–Center slide latches are a common way to secure your shutters in the closed position. Usually a part with sliding bolt is attached to one shutter, and the catch is attached to the other shutter. When the shutters are fully closed, the bolt slides into the catch, holding the shutters together in a closed position.

Hook Latch and Eye–This is an inexpensive, though less durable, alternative to a center slide latch. The hook latch attaches to one shutter and the eye attaches to the other. When the shutters are closed, the hook latch slips into the eye and keeps the shutters closed.

Pull Ring–This part attaches to the face of the shutter and provides a place to grab onto the shutter and pull it closed. Pull rings are not an essential item. They can be added if desired, but will not affect the functionality of the shutters if not added.

Other Important Terms To Know:

Offset–When purchasing plate pintels or hinges, you’ll need to choose an offset. In terms of a plate pintel, the offset is the distance between the plate that screws onto the house and the pin that the hinge sits on. In terms of a hinge, the offset is the distance from the pintel pin to the flat part of the hinge, where it attaches to the face of the shutter.

Throw–Throw is the total distance needed for the shutter to clear the siding material when in the open position. The amount of throw your shutter hardware provides can be calculated by adding the plate pintel offset and the hinge offset.

Ellen Bell works for Home Products n’ More, a company dedicated to providing high quality products for your home, garden, and auto. Home Products n’ More offers a complete line of shutter hardware, including shutter hinges and shutter dogs, all with free shipping and handling. Visit us at http://www.homeproductsnmore.com/Exterior_Shutter_Hardware_s/48.htm