How to be a good Guest

HOW TO BE A GOOD GUEST

As a guest you are likely to share the responsibility for the success of a party. But are you the kind of guest that gets regularly invited? Well, here are a few tips to make you the kind of good guest who is welcome at anybody's table.

Respond to your invitation. Let your host know (and no later than the stated RSVP date) whether or not you can attend the party. This way your hosts can make plans knowing the exact number of guests who will be attending.

Ask if you can contribute anything to the meal/party. The hostess may be relieved to have someone take charge of one of the courses, such as an appetizer, side dish or dessert.

If you have the time, offer to come a little earlier than the other guests to help with pre-party setup. But if your offer is accepted, don't be late - your hostess will be counting on you.

Arrive at a dinner party on-time. Most people love to start a party or meal s on time. You wouldn't want to hold up the meal and spoil the food for everyone else.

When the meal is over, ask your hostess if you can help clear the table. But if her answer is "no thanks", then just relax and leave things alone. If you see the hostess frantically cleaning in the kitchen after the meal is over, offer to help.

Be friendly and make conversation with other guests. Your acceptance to mingle with others is what will lead to the party's success.

Do not raise a conversation of a sensitive topic; especially one that you know will cause dissension among that particular group of guests.

Drink responsibly. Your host may be serving alcoholic beverages to complement the meal, but it doesn't mean he/she wants to have a group of sloppy drunks on their hands at the end of the party.

What to do at the Gym

MANNERS: DO'S AND DON'TS AT THE GYM

During the summer, the gym is usually busier and more crowded. Exercising at a health club or fitness center calls for considering those around you. Here's how:

? This is the number one "do" and the most important etiquette rule at the gym:
Wipe up your sweat, please! This includes mats and machines. Keep a towel with you at all times. No one wants to sit or lie in someone else's sweat.
? Don't hog the weight machines.
When others want to use them, agree to rotate your sets.
? Do reset the weight machines back to a low setting.
Otherwise, the next person may have to spend resetting them?or worse?could injure themselves by trying to lift a weight that's too heavy.
? Do limit your time on the treadmill or other cardio machines to 20-30 minutes if others are waiting for a turn.
? Don't flirt.
If you're into flirting, and you find a receptive party, flirt only when you won't be disturbing others around you. If you try to strike up a conversation with someone you find attractive and he or she gives you the brush off (no matter how politely), drop your overture then and there.
? Do obey the fitness center's rules.
These may include wearing correct workout shoes, not using cell phones, and signing in at the front desk.
? Do think about how you smell!
Arrive clean, remember to apply deodorant, and lay off the perfume and cologne (the aromas get stronger as you work up a sweat).
? Don't be late for personal training sessions and group fitness classes.
? Do your part to keep the gym and locker room clean.
Keep your clothes and other personal items stored in lockers. Clean up after yourself in the showers, sinks, and changing areas. Deposit used towels in their receptacles.

What to do in Swimming Pool

ETIQUETTE AT THE SWIMMING POOL

If you're going for a swim in a public pool you dive in expecting a clean, hygienic, hassle-free experience. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
Remember that public pools are just that? they're public, therefore open to all. When making use of them, personal hygiene and a consideration for others should be your top priorities.

Here are 10 essential rules to follow when using public pools.

1. Read and follow the specific rules posted at the pool. Every public pool has a set of guidelines they expect patrons to adhere to. It is your responsibility to carefully go over and follow them.

2. Shower before entering the pool.

3. Wear a swimming cap, especially over long hair. The last thing you want to do is leave behind a chunk of your hair for other patrons to deal with.

4. Select a swimming lane based on skill level and speed and stay in it. Do not frighten less experienced swimmers with your speed and momentum and do not bother the more experienced ones with a lack thereof.

5. Make it a point to wear swimming goggles as it helps you to clearly see other swimmers.

6. Not all public pools employ lifeguards. Always use caution, whether or not a lifeguard is present.

7. Do not leave young children unattended at any time. Even if a lifeguard is present it is your responsibility to ensure your children are safe and protected.

8. Do not urinate in the pool, and discourage children from doing this as well.

9. Don't jump in the pool, or push off on a backstroke length, without making very sure you're not going to crash into someone or just scare the living daylights out of them. Be mindful of your surroundings.

10. Don't let your pets swim in the pool. Keep them out of it. If your pets must accompany you while you take your swim, make sure that they do not enter the pool at anytime and are being supervised by someone when you aren't watching over them.

How to deal with people in wheel chairs

INTERACTING WITH PEOPLE IN WHEELCHAIRS

First and foremost you must remember that people with disabilities are individuals ? they may be your friends, your co-workers, your neighbours. When dealing with people who use wheelchairs you must know that they might have different disabilities and varying abilities. Some can use their arms and hands. Some can get out of their wheelchairs and even walk for short distances.

Here are some important tips to keep in mind when interacting with people who use wheelchairs or have mobility impairments -

? Wheelchair users are people, not equipment. Don't lean over someone in a wheelchair to shake another person's hand or ask a wheelchair user to hold coats. Setting your drink on the desktop attached to someone's wheelchair is a definite no-no.
? Don't push or touch a person's wheelchair; it's part of her personal space. If you help someone down a curb without waiting for instructions, you may dump him or her out of the chair. You may detach the chair's parts if you lift it by the handles or the footrest.
? Keep the ramps and wheelchair-accessib le doors to your building unlocked and unblocked.
? Be aware of a wheelchair users' reach limits. Place as many items as possible within their grasp. Make sure that there is a clear path of travel to shelves and display racks.
? When talking to a wheelchair user, grab your own chair and sit at his or her level. If that's not possible, stand at a slight distance, so that he/she isn't straining her neck to make eye contact with you.
? If your building has different routes through it, be sure that signs direct wheelchair users to the most accessible ways around the facility. People who walk with a cane or crutches also need to know the easiest was to get around a place, but stairs may be easier for them than a ramp. Ensure that security guards and receptionists at your business can answer questions about the most accessible way around the building.
? People who use canes or crutches need their arms to balance themselves, so never grab them. Mobility-impaired people may lean on a door for support as they open it. Pushing them or quickly opening the door may cause them to fall. Even pulling out or pushing in a chair may present a problem. Always ask before offering help.
? If you offer a seat to a mobility-impaired person, keep in mind that chairs with arms are easier for some people to use.
? Falls are a big problem for people with mobility impairments. Be sure to set out adequate warning signs after washing floors. Also put out mats on rainy or snowy days to keep the floors as dry as possible. (Make sure they don't bunch up and make the floor impassable for wheelchair users.)
? People who are not visibly mobility impaired may have needs related to their mobility. For example, a person with a respiratory or heart condition may have trouble walking long distances or walking quickly.

Packing tips

Storage Tips

Guidelines for Packing your container

* Distribute the weight evenly in your container, not all on one
side. * Boxes should be filled completely and lids closed. *
Protect your items with paper pads, bubble pack or moving blankets.
* Place heavy items on the bottom, lightweight items on the top. *
Heavy items should be packed in small boxes for easier lifting.
Lightweight items can go in larger boxes. * Pack all your items as
tight as possible. Avoid leaving open space where items can shift. A
good rule of thumb is to pack the container one quarter at a time. *
Prop the door open while you are loading to keep it from closing
unexpectedly. * Secure the container when it is unattended with a
strong commercial grade padlock. For extra security, it is a good idea
to park your car in front of the door of the container. * Use the
inventory list in the packet you received from your Customer Care
Representative to make it easy to keep track of your items. * Store
fragile items in dresser drawers
Tables and Chairs: Disassemble if possible, wrapping legs with paper
pads to avoid scratching. Place any hardware in a plastic bag and tape
to the underside of the table. Wrap the table top with cloth or paper
pads and place against the side of the container, not on the bottom.

Upholstered items: Couches can be packed on their feet, with a second
couch inverted on top of the other for protection. A single couch can be
placed on end, using paper pads to protect the arm rests.

Mattresses: Place mattresses and box springs in a protective bag, and
place along the side of the container.

Rugs: After vacuuming rugs, sprinkle with moth flakes, roll up, tie with
a rope, and pad with paper pads.

Lamps: Place small bases in dresser drawers with paper or cloth padding,
and large ones in boxes with wadded-up paper in the extra space. Shades
should be placed in individual boxes with wadded-up paper in the empty
spaces.

Beds: Tie bed rails together and use mattress covers for mattress and
box springs.

Bicycles and Tools: Clean and cover with a paper pad or moving blankets
to protect your other goods from being torn. Small tools can be placed
in a box together. Long handled tools should be taped together.

Clothing: Wardrobe boxes are best for storing clothing. You can place
shoes and folded items in the bottom and use the metal bar to hang
others on the top. Small garment items can be left in dresser drawers.

Mirrors and Pictures: Wrap mirrors and pictures in paper and bubble wrap
and pack in a mirror packing box. Do not lay mirror boxes flat. If
possible, place between a mattress and box spring, or place on the side
of your container.

Appliances: Clean thoroughly before storing. Drain all water and leave
doors slightly ajar to prevent mildew. Tape down all moving parts.
Lightweight items can be stored inside appliances with proper padding.

Books and Papers: Pack in small boxes for easy lifting.


thanks to: "Shenoy, Sheshagiri" seshagiri.shenoy@veco.com

If Banks send Goons to collect dues

If any bank is sending goons to recover any dues and passing
threats, the aggrieved person can approach local police station
and lodge a complaint , as it will amount to a criminal
offence..

For any other unresloved banking problems, first complain to the
Chaiperson Indian Banks Association . In case of all Banks
operating in India, including foreign banks, there is an
authority designated to solve the banking disputes Called THE
BANKING OMBUDSMAN

Address : Care of RBI , Garment House , Dr. Annie Besant Road,
Worli, Mumbai 18.

Mohan Siroya

Chairperson- Consumer Complaints Cell

How to Celebrate Holi with Natural Stuff?

With Holi round the corner , here is a word of caution as the chemical additives can cause harm as follows:
Black Lead oxide Renal Failure
Green Copper Sulphate Eye Allergy, Puffiness and Temporary blindness
Silver Aluminium Bromide Carcinogenic
Blue Prussian Blue Contract Dermatitis
Red Mercury Sulphite Highly toxic can cause skin cancer

Here are a few things one can do at home:
Mix haldi powder with besan for a lovely yellow.
Slice a beetroot and soak in water for a deep pink.
Boil Marigold or Tesu flowers in water for yellow colour. The other easy way to get a yellow liquid colour is to soak peels of pomegranate (Anar) overnight.
For an orange red paste, henna leaves (mehndi) can be dried, powdered and mixed with water.

Play a safe Holi!

Rtn. Smriti Gulwady
President- Rotary Club Thane Suburban

If you lose your Mobile

Subject: Simple to find Lost Mobile

An IMEI number- The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is an international identity number used to uniquely identify a mobile phone. The 15-digit IMEI number is an electronic fingerprint transmitted every time a phone is used, which reveals the identity of the mobile handset.

How can I find out my IMEI number? IMEI numbers are independent of the phone number and are usually written underneath the battery or on the back of the handset. Mobile phone users can also check their 15 digit IMEI number by dialling *#06# on their mobile handset. Mobile phone owners should make a note of their IMEI number and keep the details in a safe place.

If u lost your mobile, send an e-mail to cop@vsnl.net with the following info.
Your name:
Address:
Phone model:
Make:
Last used No.:
E-mail for communication:
Missed date:
IMEI No.:

"No need to go to police station"

Source: THE HINDU, 13.5.06

When your Handbag or Phone is stolen

Be careful when entering your husband or wife's name in your phone!

True story:
A lady lost her handbag containing her credit card, mobile phone, etc. After she realized that her bag was stolen, she called her husband and told him what happened.
Husband said "I just received your SMS asking about your Pin number and I've replied a little while ago".
They realized what a risk they had taken. They rushed to the bank. Bank staff told them all the money was already withdrawn.
The Thief had actually used the stolen hand phone to sms "hubby" in the contact list and got hold of the pin number.
Within minutes he had withdrawn all the money from the bank account.

Morale of the lesson:
Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people in your contact list. Avoid using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, sweetheart, Dad, Mum etc. and very importantly, when sensitive information is being asked through SMS, CONFIRM by calling back.


Thanks to: lakshmis@npcil.co.in

When to Replace Items?

Nothing lasts forever.

That said, many items are less obvious than the spoiled milk in your fridge ? there's no expiration date or other obvious signs they have outlived their use.

So how long should you let your stuff linger before replacing it? We talked to the experts and nailed down a "best by" date for, well, just about everything:

AIR FILTERS
Replace after: Six months
Why: Filters become clogged with dirt and other particles, reducing the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling systems, says Rozanne Weissman, a spokeswoman for the Alliance to Save Energy.


COMPUTERS
Replace after: Four years
Why: Unless you're using your computer for very basic functions (i.e., word processing), technology will have likely advanced enough that you need a significant upgrade, says David Carnoy, executive editor of CNET, a technology review web site. Rather than trying to put a new processor into an old computer, you're typically better off buying new. "With laptops, there isn't much you can do to upgrade them," he says. Upgrading your desktop is possible, but unless you're a technology whiz, that process can be as expensive as buying a new computer (and infinitely more complicated) .

COSMETICS
Replace after: Three months to two years
Why: Microbe growth in makeup can cause skin irritations and infections, explains Paula Begoun, author of "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me." The worst offenders are liquid cosmetics, which build up bacteria more quickly. Keep mascara for a maximum of three months; other liquids and creams (eyeliner, foundation) for no more than a year. Powders (eyeshadow, blush) can be used safely for up to two years.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Replace after: 10 to 12 years
Why: The pressurized contents of a fire extinguisher de-pressurize over time. "Eventually, it just becomes a block of 'stuff' inside the cylinder," says Tom Olshanski, director of external affairs for the U.S. Fire Administration ? rendering it useless in fighting fires. Extinguishers can deteriorate faster if left in a high-humidity environment. Check your extinguisher on a monthly basis for corrosion, a sure sign air is leaking out, he suggests.

MATTRESSES
Replace after: Seven years
Why: Mattresses wear out over time, says Kathleen Huddy, textiles director for the Good Housekeeping Institute. One that sags or is uneven won't keep your spine in line as you sleep, which means you may have trouble sleeping. It's likely you'll also experience neck and back pain while awake. There's also an ick factor to old mattresses, she explains ? they collect dust, dirt and allergens that can't be removed.

PERFUME
Replace after: Two years
Why: Exposure to light, heat and air lighten and alter perfume notes, explains Andrea Walker, a makeup expert with Sephora. "It weakens the scent," she says.

PILLOWS
Replace after: Two years
Why: Pressure on the pillow as you sleep causes it to flatten, and develop uncomfortable bumps and lumps, says GHI's Huddy. To test if your pillow still has life in it, she says, fold it in half and rest your hand on top for 30 seconds. Then let go. "If the pillow pops back, it's fine," she says. If it remains folded, it's time to buy a new one.

RUNNING (AND WALKING) SHOES
Replace after: 300 to 500 miles run
Why: Foam-like material in the mid-sole of the shoe stops bouncing back. "You lose the shock-absorbing capacity," says Dr. Jim Christina, director of scientific affairs for the American Podiatric Medical Association. And that can lead to heel and arch pain, or even stress fractures. Judge how much life is left in your shoes by the way they feel. When a running shoe becomes uncomfortable, it's time to toss it. (You can lengthen the life of your running shoes, says Christina, by alternating between two pairs. That gives the foam mid-sole time to decompress between runs.)

SMOKE ALARMS
Replace after: 10 years
Why: Constant stress on a smoke detector's sensors from particles in the air ? everything from cigarette smoke to pet dander to pollen ? render it unreliable, says the U.S. Fire Administration' s Olshanski. "Its ability to sense smoke deteriorates, " he says. The result will be one of two extremes: either the smoke detector will sound the alarm for just about anything, or it won't go off at all.

SPICES
Replace after: One year
Why: Dried herbs and spices lose their flavor over time, says Tina Ujlaki, executive food editor for Food & Wine magazine. Whole spices, such as star anise or coriander, may last slightly longer ? less of the spice is exposed to the air. To tell if your spices are past their prime, open the bag or jar and take a whiff. "If there's no scent, there won't be any flavor," she says.

TOOTHBRUSHES
Replace after: Three months
Why: Toothbrush bristles frayed from use remove plaque less effectively than those of a new brush, according to the American Dental Association. Swapping out your brush will also limit exposure to bacteria that build up on the bristles.


Thanks to: "Naubat Rai" naubatrai_08@yahoo.com

How you can help reduce Global Warming?

1. Change a light globe
Replacing six regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs will save 400kg of carbon dioxide per year.

2. Drive less
Walk, bike, carpool or take public transport more often. You'll save 1.5kg of carbon dioxide for every 5km you don't drive.

3. Recycle more
You can save 1,000kg of carbon dioxide per year by recycling just half of your household waste.

4. Check you tyres
Keeping your tyres inflated properly can improve your car's efficiency. Every litre of petrol saved keeps 2.5kg of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.

5. Use less hot water
It takes a lot of energy to heat water - use less hot water by installing an energy efficiency triple A rated showerhead (3 tonnes of carbon dioxide saved per year) and washing your clothes in cold or warm water (225kg saved per year).

6. Avoid products with a lot of packaging
You can save 545kg of carbon dioxide if you cut down your garbage by 10%.

7. Move your thermostat down 2 degrees in winter and up 2 degrees in summer
You could save about 900 kg of carbon dioxide a year with this simple adjustment.

8. Plant a tree
A single tree will absorb one tonne of carbon dioxide over its lifetime.

9. Turn off electronic devices
Simply turning off your television, DVD player, stereo and computer when you're not using them will save you thousands of kilograms of carbon dioxide a year.

10. Be part of the solution
Find out more about climate change by attending a live presentation of Al Gore's slide show from An Inconvenient Truth at Piney Lakes.

Thanks to: "Dr. Leo Rebello" leorebello@hathway.com

How to Develop Emotional Competence

A. PERSONAL COMPETENCE

1.Self-Awareness

EMOTIONAL AWARENESS:
Recognizing one’s emotions and their effects.
People with this competence:
Know which emotions they are feeling and why
Realize the links between their feelings and what they think, do, and say
Recognize how their feelings affect their performance
Have a guiding awareness of their values and goals

ACCURATE SELF-ASSESSMENT:
Knowing one’s strengths and limits.
People with this competence are:
Aware of their strengths and weaknesses
Reflective, learning from experience
Open to candid feedback, new perspectives, continuous learning, and self-development
Able to show a sense of humor and perspective about themselves

SELF-CONFIDENCE:
Sureness about one’s self-worth and capabilities.
People with this competence:
Present themselves with self-assurance; have “presence”
Can voice views that are unpopular and go out on a limb for what is right
Are decisive, able to make sound decisions despite uncertainties and pressures
2.Self-Regulation

SELF-CONTROL:
Managing disruptive emotions and impulses.
People with this competence:
Manage their impulsive feelings and distressing emotions well
Stay composed, positive, and unflappable even in trying moments
Think clearly and stay focused under pressure

TRUSTWORTHINESS:
Maintaining standards of honesty and integrity.
People with this competence:
Act ethically and are above reproach
Build trust through their reliability and authenticity
Admit their own mistakes and confront unethical actions in others
Take tough, principled stands even if they are unpopular

CONSCIENTIOUSNESS:
Taking responsibility for personal performance.
People with this competence:
Meet commitments and keep promises
Hold themselves accountable for meeting their objectives
Are organized and careful in their work

ADAPTABILITY:
Flexibility in handling change.
People with this competence:
Smoothly handle multiple demands, shifting priorities, and rapid change
Adapt their responses and tactics to fit fluid circumstances
Are flexible in how they see events

INNOVATIVENESS:
Being comfortable with and open to novel ideas and new information.
People with this competence:
Seek out fresh ideas from a wide variety of sources
Entertain original solutions to problems
Generate new ideas
Take fresh perspectives and risks in their thinking

3.Self-Motivation

ACHIEVEMENT DRIVE:
Striving to improve or meet a standard of excellence.
People with this competence:
Are results-oriented, with a high drive to meet their objectives and standards
Set challenging goals and take calculated risks
Pursue information to reduce uncertainty and find ways to do better
Learn how to improve their performance

COMMITMENT:
Aligning with the goals of the group or organization.
People with this competence:
Readily make personal or group sacrifices to meet a larger organizational goal
Find a sense of purpose in the larger mission
Use the group’s core values in making decisions and clarifying choices
Actively seek out opportunities to fulfill the group’s mission

INITIATIVE:
Readiness to act on opportunities.
People with this competence:
Are ready to seize opportunities
Pursue goals beyond what’s required or expected of them
Cut through red tape and bend the rules when necessary to get the job done
Mobilize others through unusual, enterprising efforts

OPTIMISM:
Persistence in pursuing goals despite obstacles and setbacks.
People with this competence:
Persist in seeking goals despite obstacles and setbacks
Operate from hope of success rather than fear of failure
See setbacks as due to manageable circumstance rather than a personal flaw

B.SOCIAL COMPETENCE

1.Social Awareness

EMPATHY:
Sensing others’ feelings and perspective, and taking an active interest in their concerns.
People with this competence:
Are attentive to emotional cues and listen well
Show sensitivity and understand others’ perspectives
Help out based on understanding other people’s needs and feelings

SERVICE ORIENTATION:
Anticipating, recognizing, and meeting customers’ needs.
People with this competence:
Understand customers’ needs and match them to services or products
Seek ways to increase customers’ satisfaction and loyalty
Gladly offer appropriate assistance
Grasp a customer’s perspective, acting as a trusted advisor

DEVELOPING OTHERS:
Sensing what others need in order to develop, and bolstering their abilities.
People with this competence:
Acknowledge and reward people’s strengths, accomplishments, and development
Offer useful feedback and identify people’s needs for development
Mentor, give timely coaching, and offer assignments that challenge and grow a person’s skill

.LEVERAGING DIVERSITY:
Cultivating opportunities through diverse people.
People with this competence:
Respect and relate well to people from varied backgrounds
Understand diverse worldviews and are sensitive to group differences
See diversity as opportunity, creating an environment where diverse people can thrive
Challenge bias and intolerance

POLITICAL AWARENESS:
Reading a group’s emotional currents and power relationships.
People with this competence:
Accurately read key power relationships
Detect crucial social networks
Understand the forces that shape views and actions of clients, customers, or competitors
Accurately read situations and organizational and external realities

2.Social Skills

INFLUENCE:
Wielding effective tactics for persuasion.
People with this competence:
Are skilled at persuasion
Fine-tune presentations to appeal to the listener
Use complex strategies like indirect influence to build consensus and support
Orchestrate dramatic events to effectively make a point

COMMUNICATION:
Sending clear and convincing messages.
People with this competence:
Are effective in give-and-take, registering emotional cues in attuning their message
Deal with difficult issues straightforwardly
Listen well, seek mutual understanding, and welcome sharing of information fully
Foster open communication and stay receptive to bad news as well as good

LEADERSHIP:
Inspiring and guiding groups and people. People with this competence:
Articulate and arouse enthusiasm for a shared vision and mission
Step forward to lead as needed, regardless of position
Guide the performance of others while holding them accountable
Lead by example

CHANGE CATALYST:
Initiating or managing change.
People with this competence:
Recognize the need for change and remove barriers
Challenge the status quo to acknowledge the need for change
Champion the change and enlist others in its pursuit
Model the change expected of others

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT:
Negotiating and resolving disagreements.
People with this competence:
Handle difficult people and tense situations with diplomacy and tact
Spot potential conflict, bring disagreements into the open, and help deescalate
Encourage debate and open discussion
Orchestrate win-win solutions

BUILDING BONDS:
Nurturing instrumental relationships.
People with this competence:
Cultivate and maintain extensive informal networks
Seek out relationships that are mutually beneficial
Build rapport and keep others in the loop
Make and maintain personal friendships among work associates

COLLABORATION AND COOPERATION:
Working with others toward shared goals.
People with this competence:
Balance a focus on task with attention to relationships
Collaborate, sharing plans, information, and resources
Promote a friendly, cooperative climate
Spot and nurture opportunities for collaboration

TEAM CAPABILITIES:
Creating group synergy in pursuing collective goals.
People with this competence:
Model team qualities like respect, helpfulness, and cooperation
Draw all members into active and enthusiastic participation
Build team identity, esprit de corps, and commitment
Protect the group and its reputation; share credit

Thanks to: "Ajay Singh Niranjan" ajay_uor@yahoo.com


Another input:

Our "Intelligence Quotient" or "IQ" is generally thought of as our linear, analytical intelligence. Initially it was expected that IQ would be a strong predictor of success in careers. In fact it has turned out to be a weak predictor of success. IQ appears to be related to minimum standards to enter a given a profession. But once you have chosen your career, what actually leads to success is far more complicated.

Daniel Goleman popularized the phrase "Emotional Intelligence" with the publication of his book by the same title in 1995. In his book, Goleman cites research at Bell Labs that examined star performers, and tried to determine what distinguished them from more average performers. It appeared that star performers had stronger relationship skills than average performers. Harvard Business Review published the results of the Bell Labs study in 1993. Business interest in the study of "Emotional Intelligence" or "EQ" began in earnest.

EQ is actually a large collection of skills. Goleman has recently grouped these skills into 4 quadrants as shown below1.

1. SELF AWARENESS
Emotional self-awareness
Accurate self-assessment
Self-confidence

2. OTHER AWARENESS
Empathy
Organizational Awareness
Service Orientation

3. SELF MANAGEMENT
Self-Control
Trustworthiness
Conscientiousness
Adaptability
Achievement Orientation
Initiative

4. SOCIAL SKILLS
Teamwork & Collaboration
Developing Others
Influence
Communication
Leadership
Conflict Management


There is a fascinating relationship among these quadrants. Research is showing that EQ begins in the Self Awareness quadrant. The degree to which we are self-aware literally limits our ability to be aware of others, or to manage ourselves. The last skills to develop are our Social Skills, being dependent on the other 3 quadrants. Self-awareness is dependent on listening to feedback. So a willingness to truly hear others is a prerequisite for high EQ.
It is interesting that Socrates gave the advice "Know Thyself" approximately 2400 years ago. The historical Buddha (roughly 2500 years ago) made the study of the mind (profound self-knowledge) such an elevated practice that it became a major world religion.

So what is the link to Spiritual Intelligence? Dana Zohar, a quantum physicist, gave a lecture at the Science and Consciousness conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico in April 2001. She was working on a new book on Spiritual Intelligence (or "SQ"), and at that time listed 9 characteristics of SQ. The first of Zohar’s points directly echoes the first quadrant of EQ – Self Awareness but goes beyond it to a sense of connection to the universe.
Spiritual Intelligence, according to Zohar, is:
1. Self-Awareness … you know who you really are and you know that you are connected with the whole universe.

2. Vision & Values Led – or Idealism. Children naturally want to serve, and so do we. Vision and values led is definitive of our humanity.

3. The Capacity to Face and USE Adversity…owning our mistakes and adversity and using pain and tragedy to learn

4. To be Holistic: seeing the connections between things. Being open to and interested in EVERYTHING.

5. Diversity…thriving in and celebrating diversity. I look at you and see what is different in you and I say "Thank God for that!"

6. Field Independence (Courage)…a term from psychology that means the courage not to adapt, to be independent.

7. The Tendency to Ask WHY? Questions are infinite. In Quantum Physics questions CREATE reality.

8. The Ability to Re-Frame…put things into a larger context of meaning.

9. Spontaneity. This is NOT acting on a whim…it comes from the same Latin roots as RESPONSE and RESPONSIBILITY. It is not conditioned by fear. It is appropriately "responsive to" the world.
Jim Collins became famous in the world of business with the publication of his first book, "Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies" (HarperCollins, 1994) co-authored with James Porras. In it they described their in-depth research and their conclusions regarding 18 companies that were unique in their reputation in their industry, their resilience through hard times and their financial success over 50+ years. The central conclusion: truly great companies are Visionary and Values driven. This directly echoes Dr. Zohar’s 2nd characteristic of SQ.

In his latest book, "Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t," (HarperCollins 2001) Jim Collins researched 11 companies who made the transition from being good companies to being "great" companies on par with the companies in "Built to Last". A key finding was that each company had what he calls "Level 5 Leadership" (see www.jimcollins. com for more information) . As I read about Level 5 leaders I realized that they seemed to demonstrate most or all of the characteristics described as "SQ" by Zohar. In addition, they showed a profound personal humility and a powerful faith that they and their company would prevail in the end, regardless of the difficulties.

Self-awareness and cultivating inner strength (or faith) has a solid grounding in all of the major spiritual traditions. Jesus went into the wilderness to meditate and to hear the voice of the infinite creator, as did Abraham, Moses and Mohammed. Buddhists and Hindus practice meditation for these purposes as well.

The implications for leadership are clear. High IQ doesn’t guarantee a good leader. High EQ has been correlated with success. But does it alone create greatness? Sustained and recognized greatness, even in the tough world of Corporate America, is obtained by something deeper. If a corporate leader is willing to deeply know herself and her place in the universe, she can reach the graduate school of SQ. With SQ comes the ultimate success – obtaining company success in such a way that customers, employees and society all benefit. And after creating a great company, the high SQ person sincerely deflects all praise onto the "wonderful people of this organization. "

What if EQ and SQ skills became part of the curriculum for all leaders? With solid analysis such as Jim Collins’ leading the way, perhaps that day will soon come.

Thanks to:
"Ajay Singh Niranjan" ajay_uor@yahoo.com

Micro Wave Safety Tips

Don't use the microwave for deep-frying, canning, or
heating baby bottles. These applications don't allow
adequate temperature control for safe results.

Stay with the oven when microwaving popcorn, for heat
buildup can cause a fire. Time heating per instructions
but lean toward the shorter time (some ovens can scorch
popcorn in two minutes).

Don't dry or disinfect clothing or other articles in
the microwave because of the risk of fire.

Use only microwave-safe utensils. Hot food melts some
plastics, such as margarine tubs, causing migration of
package constituents. It's a good idea to use glass for
fatty foods, which get particularly hot, though not all
glass and ceramics are microwave-safe.

Here's a quick test for glass: Microwave the empty
container for one minute. It's unsafe for the microwave
if it's warm; it's OK for reheating if it's lukewarm; and
it's OK for actual cooking if it's cool.

Properly used, a microwave oven is extremely safe.
Under authority of the Radiation Control for Health and
Safety Act, FDA's-Center for Devices and Radiological
Health ensures that microwave ovens made after 1971 meet a
radiation safety standard requiring: two independent
interlock systems to stop microwave production the moment
the latch is released or the door is opened. A monitoring
system stops the oven if either or both of the interlocks
fail.

To be sure radiation levels from a microwave oven
remain as low as possible, consumers can take these steps:

Don't use an oven if an object is caught in the door
or if the door doesn't close firmly or is otherwise
damaged. If you have an older model oven with a soft mesh
door gasket. Check for deterioration which would require
servicing.

If you suspect excessive microwave leakage, contact
the manufacturer, a reputable servicing firm, the local
state health department. The FDA has found the inexpensive
home microwave-testing devices that are available to be
generally inaccurate.

Don't operate an empty oven if the introduction manual
warns against this. In some ovens the magnetron tube can
be damaged by unabsorbed energy.

If there are signs of rusting inside the oven, have
the oven repaired.

Clean the door and oven cavity---the outer edge. too.
---with water and mild detergent. Do not use abrasives
such as scouring pads.

Follow the manufacturer's instruction manual for
recommended operating procedures and safety precautions.

Be sure children who use the microwave can do so
safely.

There previously was concern that electromagnetic
emissions from microwave ovens could interfere with heart
pacemakers. Modern pacemakers are shielded against such
interference, but some older models may still be
adversely affected by proximity to a microwave oven. If
in doubt, check with your doctor.

Microwaved foods typically retain more vitamins and
minerals foods cooked by other methods because
microwaving takes less and doesn't require much
additional water.

Though microwaves produce heat directly in the food,
they really don't cook food from the inside out. With
thick foods like roasts microwaves generally cook only
about an inch of the outer layers. The heat is then slowly
conducted inward, cooking along the way.

An area of a food where there is increased moisture
will heat more quickly than other areas. So, when heating
up a jelly roll, for instance, it's a good idea to let the
food stand after cooking for a minute or two until the
heat disperses from the high moisture jelly to the low
moisture pass throughout. To promote uniform cooking,
recipes for microwave ovens usually include directions
such as turn the food midway through cooking and cover and
let stand after cooking.

As a rule, it's not good to use metal pans made for
conventional ovens or aluminum foil because reflected
microwaves cause uneven cooking and could even damage the
oven. However, some new metal cookware is specially
configured for use in microwave ovens. These pans are
safe, provided instructions for use are carefully
followed.

Some oven models have a protector on the magnetron
tube to allow use of a small amount of metal, such as meat
skewers or strips of foil over chicken wings and legs. The
instructions that come with each microwave oven tell what
kinds of containers to use and how to test for suitability
for use.

The following test is used for gauging energy output:
Fill a glass measuring cup with exactly 1 cup of tap
water. Microwave, uncovered, on "high" until water begins
to boil.

If boiling occurs in: wattage is:
less than 3 minutes 600 to 700
3 to 4 minutes 500 to 600
more than 4 minutes less than 500 watts


Thanks to: "sathishkumar svm" at explore_sathish@yahoo.com

Mobiles Life Time Validity - What is the Catch?

What is lifetime validity?

Lifetime validity essentially means you pay a certain amount -- between Rs 950 and Rs 999 at the moment -- for a prepaid card and you get a mobile connection for life with free incoming calls.

The one-time fee of Rs 900+ includes a small amount of talk time (between Rs 25 and Rs 100). The rest of the fee is the processing cost.

The lifetime validity offer is ideal if you use your mobile phone only to receive calls and don't make too many calls -- or any calls at all.

What's the catch?

The biggest catch is the cost of outgoing calls. Except MTNL's Trump, most operators charge a flat fee of Rs 1.99 per minute for outgoing calls on lifetime validity offers, regardless of whether the call is made to a mobile phone number of the same operator, a mobile phone of a different operator or a landline.

On non-lifetime validity schemes, mobile phone operators offer differential pricing based on who or what number you call. For instance, a call within the operator network could be as cheap as 50 paise per minute.

You can also reduce the cost of your outgoing calls in non-lifetime validity schemes by combining them with other special schemes. For example, Airtel-to-Airtel calls in some schemes cost Re 1 during peak hours, and 25 paise during non-peak hours in certain regions. Hutch subscribers can opt for a scheme that enables them to make calls to other mobile phones at just 99 paise by paying a monthly rental of Rs 25 a month.

You cannot combine these special offers with lifetime validity schemes.

Another downside is that you remain locked into the scheme. If you want to discontinue the connection after, say, three or six months, you will have to forfeit the one-time fee that you paid.

On the plus side, unlike prepaid cards, you don't have to recharge every now and then to keep your connection active. What's more, when you recharge a lifetime validity card, you get full talk time (less taxes).

In contrast, when you recharge or refill other prepaid cards, you have to shell out between 30 to 50 per cent as processing fees. For example, on an Airtel prepaid card of Rs 60, you pay a processing fee of Rs 30 and a service charge of Rs 5.6, which means you get only calls worth Rs 24.4.

Choose wisely

As we said earlier, most lifetime validity schemes are ideal for people who do not make outgoing calls or send many SMSes. It's best for those who are at the receiving end; for the listeners, not the talkers.

If you want both lifetime validity as well as competitive outgoing call rates, schemes offered by MTNL and Reliance appear to be the best bets.

But here's one last point you must keep in mind. Mobile operators get a 20-year licence from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

What happens when the licence period expires?

Will the lifetime scheme be carried forward once the licence is renewed?

Is it really valid for a lifetime?

The TRAI is looking into these issues and is expected to come up with guidelines for such schemes soon. How these schemes will be affected by the guidelines, and what will happen to customers who have already locked into the schemes, only the TRAI and time can tell.

Till then, choose wisely.


Thanks to: "Shenoy, Sheshagiri" sheshagiri.shenoy@veco.com

Do not fill your Petrol Tank Full

Many of us are not aware that the petrol kiosk pump has a return pipe-line.

When the petrol tank (in the car) reaches full level, there is a mechanism to trigger off the pump latch and at the same time a return-valve is opened (at the top of the station) to allow excess petrol to flow back into the sump. But the return petrol has already pass through the meter, meaning you are donating the petrol back to Station and still paying for it..........

How to Grow Roses?

So you want to grow roses? They are a beautiful choice for your garden and not nearly as difficult to grow as you might think.


Choose a rose that is easy to grow. Some choices might be â??Sunspriteâ??, â??Baby Loveâ??, â??The Fairyâ??, â??Icebergâ??, or â??Flower Carpetâ??. Also check to see which roses do well in your climate. When choosing a rose think about the colors and fragrance that appeals to you.

Understand the soil type and provide good drainage. Use organic matter to make your soil better for the roses. Plant your roses correctly and in the best place in your garden for the roseâ??s success.

Know how often to water and how much water to give the roses. Too much water is not good so develop a watering schedule and stick to it. read more : http://online-articles.org/landscaping-gardening/site-map.php

Understand how the different types of water systems work. You can choose from sprinklers, an underground watering system or a drip irrigation system. It is usually good to keep the water off the leaves if you live in an area where rose diseases are a problem.

Mulching keeps the water in and the weeds away. Mulching is a very good idea when growing roses. Mulch in the early spring when you remove the protective coverings from winter. If you live in a warmer climate spread the mulch just before the roses start to leaf out.

Learn the kinds of nutrients your roses need and follow a specific fertilizing program. When growing roses it is important to test the pH of your soil. If the pH is right the roots can interact with the enzymes and bacteria in the soil and do well with the natural nutrients and the ones you add. The pH can be between 5.6 and 7.2 however 6 to 6.5 is best. By testing the soil you will know which nutrients to add.

Learn how to prune your roses. Pruning keeps the roses healthy and looking good. more tips http://online-articles.org/landscaping-gardening/site-map.php

Prevent pest and disease problems before they happen. Learn how to control pests and choose safe pest control products.

Growing roses is a delightful hobby and not nearly as complicated as you might have heard.

Thanks to: : "salaam namaste" mast13@gmail.com

How to Check Gas Cylinder Expiry Date

Have u ever heard about LPG gas cylinder's expiry date. I also didn't know.

How to find LPG cylinder's expiry date -

Very important information. Most of us do not know this. I came to know today from the gas stockist,because there was an accident.

Do you know that there is an expiry date (physical life) for LPG cylinders?

Expired Cylinders are not safe for use and may cause accidents.

In this regard please be cautious at the time of accepting any LPG cylinder from the vendor.

Here is how we can check the expiry of LPG cylinders:

On one of three side stems of the cylinder, the expiry date is coded alpha-numerically as follows A or B or C or D and some two digit number following this e.g. D06.

The alphabets stand for quarters -
A for March (First Qtr),

B for June (Second Qtr),

C for Sept (Third Qtr), &
D for December (FourthQtr).

The digits stand for the year till it is valid. Hence D06 would mean December qtr of 2006.

Share this message with everyone you know, UR kind cooperation will save life of many people and create awareness among the public.

Thanks to: "Sandeep Kanchan" sandeep_s_kanchan@yahoo.com

How to Become Wealthy?

Money, Money & Money only.....

Money is playing a vital role in life...without money one can not get
many things in life...So from to day onwards all of our members will get
gems on money matters... hope to get all of your comments please

Five Ways to Become Wealthy
Brian Tracy

The Five Roads to Financial Success in America and How to Choose Your Own
There are basically five ways that you can become wealthy starting with nothing in America based on over 25 years of research into American millionaires. Number
one, you can inherit it. Less than 10 percent of wealthy Americans inherited any of their money, and it's less and less every single year.

The Second Way
The second way that you can become wealthy is you can achieve it professionally. You can become a doctor or a lawyer or an architect or an accountant. You can b
ecome extremely good at what you do, be paid very well, and hold on to the money.

The Third Way
The third way you can achieve it is you can become a senior executive of a large corporation. You can be highly paid; you can have stock options and bonuses. An
d if you stay with the company long enough, for enough years, you can be paid enough to become wealthy.

The Fourth Way
You can win it. But only a tiny fraction of one percent of wealthy Americans got that way by winning their money some way or another. As a matter of fact, the o
dds against you winning the lottery are the equivalent of lightning striking twice in the same place. They're millions and millions to one.

The Best Way
The fifth way that you can become wealthy is you can start your own business and earn it all by yourself. Starting your own business has been and will always be
the high road to becoming wealthy for most self-made millionaires. Entrepreneurship is America offers more opportunities and opens more doors than all other po
ssibilities put together. This is why it has been said that if you have the ability to start your own business and you don't do it, you are a fool. I'll repeat
that. If you have the ability to start your own business and you don't do it, you're a fool.

Action Exercises
Where do you start? You start by getting your finances under control. The very first thing you do is you make a decision to get your finances under control. Som
e years ago, a man named George Class on wrote a book called The Richest Man In Babylon. It's a classic on financial success and what Class on said in that book
was that the key to becoming wealthy is to pay yourself first. Take ten percent off your earnings, off your gross income every month and put it aside. Learn to
live on ninety percent or less of your gross income. So the very first thing that you do is you begin to save your money.

Now, here are two things you can do immediately to put yourself onto the high road to personal wealth:

First, resolve today to begin saving your money a little bit at a time. Set a goal to save 10% of your earnings, to put it away and to never touch it. This will
change your life.

Second, immediately register your own business or sole proprietorship. Open a bank account, get business cards and letterhead and create the corporate entity un
der which you can do business. Your business opportunities will appear far sooner than you think. If you build it, they will come


"VIKASH GUPTA" vikashgupta058@gmail.com
Thanks to:

How to Create a Retirement Fund for you?

Save A Small Amount of Money As Soon As You Get Your Salary

In the classic book "The Richest Man in Babylon" by George
Clason, we are told to put aside 10% of our earnings in
order to guarantee our future financial security.

We now live almost as long after retirement as the length of
time we had worked before retirement. Make the most of those
years and saving something (even 1%) of your salary every
month.

Make sure that it automatically is debited from your account
and credited directly to your investment plan. Then leave
the money alone and forget about it until you need it. Just
make sure that every time you get a raise in salary...increase
your savings accordingly.

Action Point:

How will you begin the financial plan that will secure your
future?

The easiest way to divert money into your retirement 'fund'
is to look at all of those little amounts that you regularly
spend on things you don't really need.

Do you really need a newspaper every day? Do you need to buy
a coffee on the way to work? Do you really need to eat out
twice every week?

If you look hard enough û there is always room to save a
little.

Spend just 5 minutes every day applying this knowledge...and
you will be surprised at how this,in conjunction with your
higher target, will move you forward.


Thanks to: "VIKASH GUPTA" vikashgupta058@gmail.com

How to Save Energy?

Here is a chance to make a difference, by devoting JUST 10 seconds a day. You don't need to go anywhere, donate money, stage protests or shout slogans.

How? If you use computer to work, just remember to switch off your monitor every time you leave your desk. Very simple, isn't it?

What difference does it make?

Roughly, normal monitors consume around 150 W. Even if your screen remains ON for 1 hour per day without any use, energy wasted per day is 150 W-h (or 0.15 "units"). This is enough to light a small lamp for 10 hours! If you care to Switch Off your monitor each time you leave your place, you save electricity enough for basic household needs of a small family in a village! If your monitor remains ON overnight, this figure becomes 10 - fold - so you can probably save electricity for 10 families.

And supposing that you leave your seat 5 times a day and it takes 1 second to switch the monitor ON/OFF, you spend only 10 seconds a day for this deed which saves LOTS of energy on a long run!


Thanks to: "Sandeep Kanchan" sandeep_s_kanchan@yahoo.com

Be Careful when you stay in Hotels

When we visit bathrooms, hotel rooms, changing rooms, etc., of Hotels and Textile Show rooms, how many of you know for sure that the seemingly ordinary mirror hanging on the wall is a real mirror, or actually a 2-way mirror (i.e. they can see you, but you can't see them)?

There have been many cases of people installing 2-way mirrors in female changing rooms. It is very difficult to positively identify the surface by just looking at it.

HOW TO DETECT A 2-WAY MIRROR

It's time to get paranoid. So, how do we determine with any amount of certainty? Just conduct this simple test:

Place the tip of your fingernail against the reflective surface and if there is a GAP between your fingernail and the image of the nail, then it is a GENUINE mirror. However, if your fingernail DIRECTLY TOUCHES the image of your nail, then BEWARE, for it is a 2-way mirror!

So remember, every time you see a mirror, do the "fingernail test." It doesn't cost you anything. It is simple to do. This is a really good thing to do. The reason there is a gap on a real mirror, is because the silver is on the back of the mirror UNDER the glass. Whereas with a two-way mirror, the silver is on the Surface. Keep it in mind! Make sure and check every time you enter in hotel rooms. May be someone is making a film on you.

So if not at home and changing before a mirror, do the "fingernail test". It doesn't cost you anything. It is simple to do, and it might save you from getting "visually raped"!

Thanks to: "Karim Babwani" xteamracers@hotmail.com

No Candles in AC Room

Very important - NEVER LIGHT CANDLE in A/C ROOM.


Prevention is better than cure... Please read this and pass on...
NEVER LIGHT CANDLE in A.C. ROOM.

A friend in our group passed away last week due to carbon-monoxidepoisoning. It happened when she lighted an aroma Theraputic candle for the night in a room withair-conditioner ON.

Due to lack of oxygen in the room, the burning of the candle cannot fully oxidize & thus forms dangerous carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide will prevent oxygen exchange in the lungs, resulting in the person going offto a state of unconsciousness & eventually death in less than hour, depending on the room size.

Thanks to: "arun kumar" aroon_arun_aroon@yahoo.co.in

How to live to remain happily married

1. Make time for each other. It's so easy in our hyper-busy modern lifestyles to forget to set aside a little time to enjoy each other's company. Start a weekly tradition of setting a date for the two of you to be together doing something you both enjoy. Keep it simple. Take a nice walk together. Sip coffee together in a cozy coffeehouse. Talk to each other, reminisce, and get to know each other again.

2. Take time off from each other. Give each other space and time to work on hobbies and personal interests. When you have an interesting project to work on, you will feel more fulfilled and you will be a more interesting person.

3. Make little romantic gestures. Remember to compliment your spouse. Leave a little love note for them to find once in awhile. Celebrate the day you first met. Send flowers for no particular reason. You should continuously make little deposits in your spouse's emotional bank account. The return on your investment will be incredible.read more information at http://online-articles.org/happiness/site-map.php
4. Fight fair. Don't argue in front of other people. Don't insult each other or each other's families. Never threaten divorce, and never go to bed angry. Let the little things go, and don't make a big deal out of every disagreement. Before arguing, think; is this really going to matter in the long run?

5. Take interest in what interests your spouse. Watch their favorite shows with them. Read their favorite book, so you can talk about it with them. Encourage them to develop their talents.

6. Listen to your spouse. Husbands, remember that women need to express their feelings. Be a good sport and just listen. Don't interrupt, or get distracted. Empathize with her. Let her know that you can relate to what she's feeling. Ladies, please remember that the kind of talk you might like to have with your husband does not come naturally to most men. Just be patient. It's not a good idea to "unload" on him right when he comes home from work.read more information at http://online-articles.org/happiness/site-map.php

7. Accept your spouse for who they are. Practice total acceptance. Don't hold your spouse to your expectations; you will only succeed at building resentment.

8. Express your commitment. In little ways, you can, and should, renew your vows to each other over and over. Your spouse will feel comfortable and secure knowing that you are truly committed to the marriage. True closeness will only happen when all doubt and insecurity is replaced by confidence in the relationship. Let your spouse know that you really are in it "till death do us part."

9. Trust in each other. Don't be suspicious. Don't snoop through each other's belongings. To help ensure the trust, be honest with your spouse in all things. Never keep secrets from each other, not even little ones.

10. Make it your aim to be your spouse's best friend. Appreciate your spouse for who they are. Loosen up and have fun with each other. If you are practicing the steps above, you are on your way to being your spouse's best friend ? The ultimate relationship in marriage.read more information at http://online-articles.org/happiness/site-map.php


Thanks to: "chintal soni" chinkap@gmail.com

How to access News Papers you don't Subscribe

Simply click

http://www.samachar.com/

Beware of Cancer in your Kitchen

1--No plastic containers in micro.
2--No water bottles in freezer.
3--No plastic wrap in microwave.

Johns Hopkins has recently sent this out in its Newsletters. This information is being circulated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Dioxin chemicals causes cancer, especially breast cancer. Dioxins are highly poisonous to the cells of our bodies. Don't freeze your plastic bottles with water in them as this releases dioxins from the plastic.

Recently, Dr. Edward Fujimoto, Wellness Program Manager at CastleHospital, was on a TV program to explain this health hazard. He talked about dioxins and how bad they are for us. He said that we should not be heating our food in the microwaveusing plastic containers. This applies to foods that contain fat. He said that the ination of fat, high heat, and Plastics releases dioxin into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body. Instead, he recommends using glass, Corning Ware or ceramic containers for heating food. You get the same results, only without the dioxin So such things as TV inners, instant ramen and soups, etc., should be removed from the container and heated in something else. Paper isn't bad but you don't know what is in the paper. It's just safer to use tempered glass, Corning Ware, etc. He reminded us that a while ago some of the fast food restaurants moved away from the foam containers to paper. The dioxin problem is one of the reasons. Also, he pointed out that Saran wrap is just as dangerous whenplaced over foods to be cooked in the microwave. As the food is nuked, the high heat causes poisonous toxins to actually melt out of the plastic wrap and drip into the food. Cover food with a paper towel instead.

Thanks to: "sunil kamdar" chairworld2k@yahoo.co.in

What to do if one is Raped?

Unfortunately, even if someone takes every precaution, date rape can still happen. If you're raped, here are some things that you can do:

If you're injured, go straight to the emergency room - most medical centers and hospital emergency departments have doctors and counselors who have been trained to take care of someone who has been raped.

Call or find a friend, family member, or someone you feel safe with and tell them what happened.
If you want to report the rape, call the police right away.
Preserve all the physical evidence. Don't change clothes or wash.

Write down as much as you can remember about the event.

If you aren't sure what to do, you can also call a rape crisis center. If you don't know the number, may be your local phone book will have hotline numbers.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and get information. You'll have lots of questions as you go through the process - such as whether to report the rape, who to tell, and the kinds of reactions you may get from others.

Rape isn't just physically damaging - it can be emotionally traumatic as well. It may be hard to think or talk about something as personal as being raped by someone you know. But talking with a trained rape crisis counselor or other mental health professional can give you the right emotional attention, care, and support to begin the healing process. Working things through can help prevent lingering problems later on.

Thanks to: "o2" pazhaniraj.i@gmail.com

How to Save Yourself from Rape

1) The first thing men look for in a potential victim is hairstyle. They are most likely to go after a woman with a ponytail, bun, braid or other>hairstyle that can easily be grabbed. They are also likely to go after a>woman with long hair. Women with short hair are not common targets.

2) The second thing men look for is clothing. They will look for women>who's clothing is easy to remove quickly. Many of them carry scissors>around specifically to cut clothing.

3) They also look for women on their cell phone, searching through their purse or doing other activities while walking because they are off guard>and can be easily overpowered.

4) Men are most likely to attack & rape in the early morning, between 5:00a.m. and 8:30a.m.

5) The number one place women are abducted from/attacked is grocery store>parking lots. Number two is office parking lots/garages. Number three is public restrooms.

6) The thing about these men is that they are looking to grab a woman and>quickly move her to another location where they don't have to worry about getting caught.

7) Only 2% said they carried weapons because rape carries a 3-5 year sentence but rape with a weapon is 15-20 years.

8) If you put up any kind of a fight< /U> at all, they get discouraged because it only takes a minute or two for them to realize that going after>you isn't worth it because it will be time-consuming.

9) These men said they would not pick on women who have umbrellas, or>other similar objects that can be used from a distance, in their hands.

Keys are not a deterrent because you have to get really close to the attacker to use them as a weapon. So, the idea is to convince these guys>you're not worth it.

10) Several defense mechanisms he taught us are: If someone is following>behind you on a street or in a garage or with you in an elevator or>stairwell, look them in the face and ask them a question, l ike what time>is it, or make general small talk: "I can't believe it is so cold out>here", "we're in for a bad winter." Now you've seen their face and could>identify them in a line-up; you lose appeal as a target.

11) If someone is coming toward you, hold out your hands in front of you>and yell STOP or STAY BACK ! Most of the rapists this man talked to said>they'd leave a woman alone if she yelled or showed that she would not be>afraid to fight back. Again, they are looking for an EASY target.

12) If you carry pepper spray (this instructor was a huge advocate of it>and carries it with him wherever he goes,) yell I HAVE PEPPER SPRAY and>holding it out will be a deterrent.

13) If someone grabs you, you can't beat them with strength but you can by outsmarting them. If you are grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch>the attacker either under the arm (between the elbow and armpit) OR in the>upper inner thigh VERY VERY HARD. One woman in a class this guy taught>told him she used the underarm pinch on a guy who was trying to date rape>her and was so upset she broke through the skin and tore out muscle strands the guy needed stitches.

Try pinching yourself in those places as hard as you can stand it; it>hurts.

14) After the initial hit, always GO for the GROIN. I know from a>particularly unfortunate experience that if you slap a guy's parts it is>extremely painful. You might think that you'll anger the guy and make him>want to hurt you more, but the thing these rapists told our instructor is>that they want a woman who will not cause a lot of trouble. Start causing>trouble, and he's out of there.

15) When the guy puts his hands up to you, grab his first two fingers and>bend them back as far as possible with as much pressure pushing down on them as possible. The instructor did it to me without using much pressure,>and I ended up on my knees and both knuckles cracked audibly.

16) Of course the things we always hear still apply. Always be aware of your surroundings , take someone with you if you can and if you see any odd>behavior, don't dismiss it, go with your instincts!!!

You may feel a little silly at the time, but you'd feel much worse if the>guy really was trouble.

Thanks to: "hum tum" kool_shivi@yahoo.co.in


Understand what is rape?


When people think of rape, they might think of a stranger jumping out of a shadowy place and sexually attacking someone. But it's not only strangers who rape. In fact, about half of all people who are raped know the person who attacked them.
Most friendships, acquaintances, and dates never lead to violence, of course. But, sadly, sometimes it happens. When forced sex occurs between two people who already know each other, it is known as date rape or acquaintance rape.
Even if the two people know each other well, and even if they were intimate or had sex before, no one has the right to force a sexual act on another person against his or her will. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Branded_Indian/
Girls and women are most often raped - one in three women will be sexually assaulted in her life. Guys can also be raped, though: 7% to 10% of rape victims are male.K e e r t h e s h @ y a h o o . c o m
Even though rape involves forced sex, rape is not about sex or passion. Rape has nothing to do with love. Rape is an act of aggression and violence.
You may hear some people say that those who have been raped were somehow "asking for it" because of the clothes they wore or the way they acted. That's wrong: The person who is raped is not to blame. Rape is always the fault of the rapist. And that's also the case when two people are dating - or even in an intimate relationship. One person never owes the other person sex. If sex is forced against someone's will, that's rape.
Healthy relationships involve respect - including respect for the feelings of others. Someone who really cares about you will respect your wishes and not force or pressure you to have sex.



H ow can you protect yourself from being a victim?

Don't accept drinks from other people.
Open containers yourself.
Keep your drink with you at all times, even when you go to the bathroom.
Don't share drinks. K e e r t h e s h @ y a h o o . c o m
Don't drink from punch bowls or other large, common, open containers. They may already have drugs in them.
Don't drink anything that tastes or smells strange. Sometimes, GHB tastes salty.
Have a non-drinking friend with you to make sure nothing happens.
If you think that you have been drugged and raped: K e e r t h e s h @ y a h o o . c o m
Go to the police station or hospital right away.
Get a urine (pee) test as soon as possible. The drugs leave your system quickly. Rohypnol stays in the body for several hours, and can be detected in the urine up to 72 hours after taking it. GHB leaves the body in 12 hours.
Don't urinate before getting help. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Branded_Indian/
Don't douche, bathe, or change clothes before getting help. These things may give evidence of the rape.
You also can call a crisis center or a hotline to talk with a counselor. . Feelings of shame, guilt, fear and shock are normal. It is important to get counseling from a trusted professional.
Plan your journey or night out, arranging your journey to-and-from home.
Make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you will be home.
When going to a pub, club or party avoid going alone. Friends can watch-out for each other.
Appoint a nominated drink watcher (your non-drinking driver?). Alcohol does affect your actions and reactions, as well as your ability to be alert. Take care.
Stay aware of what is going on around you & away from situations you do not feel comfortable with.
Never accept a drink from anyone you do not completely trust.
Do not share or exchange drinks. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Branded_Indian/
Don't leave your drink unattended, even when going to the toilet.
Drugs can be put in soft drinks, tea, coffee, hot chocolate etc., as well as alcohol. There are a number of drugs that could be used to incapacitate you; the majority will not be easily detectable in a drink.
Drinking from a bottle and keeping your thumb over the top is a good idea. Just remember that if you leave it unattended you may not be able to see if anything has been put in it.
If you return to your drink and it has been moved, looks different, appears to have been topped-up, or tastes strange; don't take a chance.
Consider very carefully whether you should leave the pub, club or party with someone you have just met.
If you begin to feel really drunk after only a drink or two, seek help from a trusted friend, or a member of the club or pub management. It is important to get to a place of safety as soon as possible.
Consider very carefully whether you should leave the pub, club or party with someone you have just met. You must be sure you have absolute trust in the person you are asking for help, no matter how long you have known them.
This can happen to men as well as women.

Thanks to: pazhaniraj.i@gmail.com


Following is a mail circulated by the Pune Police. It states about a law which we really dint knew till date.

An incident took place in Pune - a young girl was raped by a man posing as a plain clothes officer; he asked her to come to the police station when she and her male friend didn't have a driver's license to show. He sent the boy off to get his license and asked the girl to accompany him to the police station. Took her instead to an isolated area where the horrendous crime was committed.

The law which most are not aware, clearly states that· between 6 pm and 6 am, a woman has the right to REFUSE to go to the Police Station, even ifan arrest warrant has been issued against her.· It is a procedural issue that a woman can be arrested between 6 pm and 6 am, ONLY if she isarrested by a woman officer and taken to an ALL WOMEN police station.·And if she is arrested by a male officer, it has to be proven that a woman officer was on duty at the time of arrest.

Thanks to: "Santhosh Kumar" gsanthoshgupta@gmail.com



SHOCKING Story

A woman at a Gas nightclub (Mumbai) on Saturday night was taken by 5 men,
who according to hospital and police reports, gang raped her before
dumping her at Bandstand Mumbai. Unable to remember the events of the
evening, tests later confirmed the repeat rapes along with traces of
rohypnol in her blood. Rohypnol, date rape drug is an essentially a small
sterilization pill. The drug is now being used by rapists at parties to
rape AND sterilize their victims. All they have to do is drop it into the
girl's drink. The girl can't remember a thing the next morning, of all
that had taken place the night before. Rohypnol, which dissolves in
drinks just as easily, is such that the victim doesn't conceive from the
rape and the rapist needn't worry about having a paternity test
identifying him months later. The Drug's affects ARE NOT TEMPORARY - they
are PERMANENT. Any female that takes it WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO CONCEIVE.
The weasels can get this drug from anyone who is in the vet school
or any university. It's that easy, and Rohypnol is about to break out big
on campuses everywhere. Believe it or not, there are even sites on the
Internet telling people how to use it. Please forward this to everyone
you know, especially girls. Girls, be careful when you're out and don't
leave your drink unattended. (added - Buy your own drinks, ensure bottles
or cans received are unopened or sealed; don't even taste someone else's
drink) There was already been a report in Singapore of girls drink been
spike by Rohypnol. Please make the effort to forward this to everyone you
know...for guys Pls inform all your female friends and
relatives....

How to Repair Plaster Wall in your House

Walls

The walls of a home are an important, albeit difficult, element for any doityourself to take on. A good drywall job can create a smooth and uniform series of walls and ceilings. The application of different textures and insulation can become a llittle tricky be tricky though. When it comes to the insulation of the walls most people are comfortable enough with to try installing on their own. Our walls section explores the varied forms and designs that can create an individual look and feel for a home and provides easy pratical ways to install in insulation. Also included in this section is a complete walkthrough on how to install a wall and information on different kinds of insulation.

How to Repair Damaged Plaster Walls

If you have all the necessary tools, your only expense is the cost of perlited plaster and ready-mix joint compound, both of which are affordable and in most hardware stores. Consisting of finely crushed gypsum rock and volcanic glass, perlited plaster is both lightweight and durable Before Plastering: Excess moisture in the wall or room can affect the plastering, so make sure to fix any leaks or causes of moisture several weeks before plastering. The best temperature for plastering is between 55 degrees and 70 degrees. Keep the room at this temperature a least 24 hours before plastering to ensure that the walls are completely dry. The room must stay at this temperature during plastering and until the plaster has completely set. These repair tips apply only for plaster walls with lath backing and will not work for plaster board walls. Similar steps are taken in repairing holes and cracks. Even the supporting wood frame area behind the plastered area, called the lath, can be easily repaired. Fixing holes without a lath is another easy job that just takes the right tools and a little skill. Mixing: Follow manufacturer's instructions when mixing the plaster with water. Larger holes will need a thicker plaster mixture than smaller holes.Safety First: When plastering, wear safety goggles, a long sleeve shirt and cotton work gloves for eye and skin protection. Wear a sanding respirator to prevent inhalation while breaking dried plaster or when mixing. Repairing Holes

Tools and Materials You Need:

Cold chisel
Ball peen hammer
Utility knife
Paintbrush
Latex bonding agent (or spray bottle and water)
Regular formulation perlited plaster (sized for your repair job)
10-inch wallboard knife
Spray bottle and water
Ready-mix joint compound
Sponge
Sandpaper
Interior primer

Chip Away Damaged Plaster: Remove the damaged plaster by using a cold chisel and a ball peen hammer to chip the damaged plaster off the wall. Be sure not to chip too hard or you will damage the lath, which is the wood structure that supports the plaster. Using a utility knife, smooth the inside edges of the hole. Apply Latex Bonding Agent: To make sure the dry plaster and lath do not absorb too much moisture, use a brush to apply a latex bonding agent to the lath and exposed plaster. Ask your hardware store for the right bonding agent for plaster. If you do not have latex bonding agent, simply dampen the area well by spraying water with a spray bottle. Apply and Scratch Plaster: Apply a layer of 3/8-inch thick plaster using a 10-inch wallboard knife. To help the second coat stick well, cross scratch the first coat of plaster as it begins to set.Apply Second Layer: After letting the first coat dry for 24 hours, use a spray bottle to dampen the area with water. Distribute a second 3/8-inch thick layer of plaster over the hole and cross scratch as before. This layer must also dry for 24 hours. Distribute Joint Compound: Apply the joint compound with a 10-inch wallboard knife after the second layer is dry. This final layer must be applied very thin to blend with the wall and must dry for 24 hours. Once completely dry, wipe the area with a damp sponge and sand until it is smooth. Prime the Area: Paint the area with interior primer. After completely dry, the area can be finished with paint or wall covering.Repairing Cracks

Tools and Materials You Need:

Utility knife
Spray bottle and water
-Bag of regular formulation perlited plaster (sized for your repair job)
4-inch wallboard knife
Fine closed-coat sandpaper (150 grit)
Sponge
Interior primer

Smooth and Apply Plaster: Smooth cracked area with a utility knife, cutting away any jagged edges and dampen the area with a spray bottle and water. Apply a layer of plaster to the crack with a 4-inch wallboard knife, making sure it is even with the wall. Crack repairs usually need only 1 layer of plaster. Allow the area to dry for 24 hours.

Sand and Prime:

Using a piece of fine closed-coat sandpaper (150 grit), sand the plastered area until it is smooth. Wipe the patch with a damp sponge and paint the area with interior primer, letting it dry completely. Finish the area by painting or covering with wallpaper.
Repairing Damaged Lath
Tools and Materials You Need:
Wood chisel (or mallet)
Metal lath (similar to heavy screen)
6-inch piece of wire
Wooden dowel
Bag of regular formulation perlited plaster (sized for your repair job)
Wire cutters
Ready-mix joint compound
Closed-coat sandpaper (150 fine grit)

Insert Metal Lath in the Hole: If the lath behind the hole is damaged, cut the damaged wood out with a wood chisel or a mallet. Take a piece of metal lath, which is similar to heavy screen, and insert a wire loop at the center of the lath. Holding the wire tightly, push the metal lath into the hole and pull the wire so that the metal lath is pressed firmly against the inside of the hole.

Apply Plaster Over Lath: Twist the metal wire tightly around a wooden dowel making sure the dowel is pressed firmly against the wall. Apply a coat of plaster and cross scratch it as it begins to set.

Distribute Joint Compound: Once the area is dry, remove the wooden dowel and cut the wire with wire cutters. Apply your thin layer of joint compound and let it dry for 24 hours. The area can be painted or wallpapered after sanding and wiping down with a damp sponge.

Repairing a Hole without Lath

Tools and Materials You Need:
Wallboard saw
Gypsum lath (or 3/8-inch thick wallboard)
Power screw driver
Wallboard screws
Regular formulation perlited plaster
Trowel
Ready-mix joint compound
Spray bottle and water
10-inch wallboard knife
Small-cell polyurethane sponge
Fine-closed sandpaper
Paintbrush
Interior primer

Install Wallboard Over the Hole:

If there is a hole in your plaster without any lath behind the hole, you need to install a piece of wallboard or gypsum lath over the area without lath before plastering. Cut the wallboard or gypsum lath to fit the area without the lath. Fasten the corners of the gypsum lath or wallboard to the existing lath behind the plaster. Use a power screw driver and wallboard screws.

Apply Plaster: Using a trowel, apply plaster over the hole covering the patch and filling the entire hole. Let the area dry for 24 hours.

Apply Joint Compound: Use a 10-inch wallboard knife to apply a thin layer of joint compound about 5 inches beyond the edge of the hole and let it dry for 24 hours. Wipe the area with a damp sponge and sand. Using a paintbrush, coat the area with a layer of interior primer and let it dry completely before painting or wallpapering.

Thanks to: "RAZIB609@GMAIL.COM" razib609@gmail.com

Useful Links of Indian Railways

Running Time Table :
http://www.trainenquiry.com/RunningTT_Display.aspx?drop_sel='04&date='%2f04%2f2006
Running time table at all stations along the route. Change train number and date.

Train Schedule :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_trn_num.html
Gives the time table schedule of the train. Fill the train number/part of name in the box on the page.

Accomodation Availability :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/acc_avl.html
To check if accomodation is available in a particular train. Link for Train number/Station Code Querry given below.. scroll down.

PNR Enquiry :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/pnr_stat.html
See if your RAC/Waitlisted ticket is confirmed or not.

Train Fare Enquiry :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/fare_enq.html
Fare lists :
Rajdhani Fares for Important Pair of Stations:http://www.indianrail.gov.in/rajdhani fares.html
Rajdhani Fares, Km wise :http://www.indianrail.gov.in/rajdhani_fares_km.html
Shatabdi Fares for Important Pair of Stations:http://www.indianrail.gov.in/shatabadi fares.html
Shatabdi Fares, Km wise :http://www.indianrail.gov.in/shatabadi_fares_km.html
Jan Shatabdi Fares for 16 Pairs of Stations :http://www.indianrail.gov.in/Janshatabdi_fares.html
Jan Shatabdi Fares, Km wise :http://www.indianrail.gov.in/jan_shatabdi_fares_km.html
Fares for Mail/Express and Ordinary Trains Class-wiseUpto 250kms : http://www.indianrail.gov.in/fares upto 250kms.html200-600kms : http://www.indianrail.gov.in/fares%20250-600kms.html600-1000kms : http://www.indianrail.gov.in/fares%20600-1000kms.htmlAbove 1000kms : http://www.indianrail.gov.in/fares%201000kms%20and%20more.htmlSurcharges : http://www.indianrail.gov.in/safety surcharge.html
Monthly Season Ticket Passenger Fares :http://www.indianrail.gov.in/mst_fares_km.html

Upgraded Passenger List :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/upgraded_passengers_list.html
IR has started this scheme of upgrading passengers for Free from Sleeper to 3AC, 3AC to 2AC, and from 2AC to 1AC if seats are vacant in the above classes. This link allows you to see if you have been upgraded.

24 Hour Arrival Schedule at Station :
http://www.trainenquiry.com/Arrival_Display.aspx?sel_val==SC++&time=$
See if trains are on time at your station. Replace 'SC' with the station code you want to check.

24 hour Departure Schedule at Station :
http://www.trainenquiry.com/Departure_Display.aspx?sel_val==SC++&time=$
See if trains are on time at your station. Replace 'SC' with the station code you want to check.

Trains between Metros :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/inet_metro_trns.html

---------------------------
Accomodation Class Codes:
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/class.html

Quota Codes :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/quotas.html

Station Code search :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/stn_code.html

Tatkal reservation scheme :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/tatkal.html

Break Journey Rules :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/break.html
Refund Rules :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/refund_rules.html

International Tourist Facilities / Indrail Pass :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/intert.html

Computerised Reservation Centres in India :
Complete Alphabetical list:http://www.indianrail.gov.in/new table.html
State Wise Lists :http://www.indianrail.gov.in/bkgloc.html

Reservation Rules :
http://www.indianrail.gov.in/resrules.html
Ticket Booking on Internet :
http://www.irctc.co.in
-----------------------------
Indian Railways Fan Club :
http://www.irfca.org
__._,_.__
_

Thanks to:

"Shenoy, Sheshagiri" sheshagiri.shenoy@veco.com

How to Tune Guitars

Most new guitar players and even some experienced ones have trouble staying and playing in tune. I'll try listing here some of the common mistakes and there solutions.

When putting new strings on your guitar you must always make sure you stretch them as you tune them to pitch. I always hold them down on the neck around the 24th fret with my left hand while pulling them away from the guitar body with my right hand. You don't have to use too much muscle, a few firm tugs should do the trick.

Whenever you tune a string down in pitch, be sure to use the string stretching technique described above. Remember ALWAYS TUNE UP! It's always better when tuning down, to get close to the note, stretch the string and then tune up to the intended pitch.

You should purchase a quality tuner from a music store . You don't need to spend your life's saving. An inexpensive tuner should be fine to start out. Remember, this thing will be traveling to gigs and jam sessions with you. I would recommend a good Boss tuner or Korg tuner. Both brands have low cost tuners that will do the job just fine.

If your guitar has a tremolo bridge, always remember that each string that you tune will go down in pitch as you tune the next string. One solution to this is to over tune the strings. That is to say, you may need to tune your low E string to an F in order to have it be around an E note by the time you finish tuning the other strings. Over time you'll get a feel for how much you need to over tune each string and it will become second nature.

If you play in a band, it is a good idea to always tune to the same pitch. Standard pitch is 440 but some bands like to tune down to 430 or even 420 for the heavier sound or vocal reasons or both. My point is that if you're practicing at 430 then you have a gig and your band tunes to 440, everything will suddenly sound different, your singer might not be able hit all the notes he or she did at practice, your solos might even sound wrong. This is because everything is now a half step higher in pitch. Make things easy on yourself, pick a pitch and stick with it, at practice and gigs. Read more articles from http://online-articles.org/music/site-map.php


Thanks to: "Mast - Mumbai" mast.mumbai@gmail.com

How to Take Great Digital Photos

Introduction

Modern cameras are highly automatic in operation. They have auto focus and auto exposure. The camera will focus on the subject - often identified by a small circle or square at the centre of the viewfinder - and calculate an appropriate exposure by detecting the level of reflected light - usually from the same spot. A slight pressure on the shutter release will activate those two functions, without taking a picture. Further pressure on the shutter release will result in a photo being taken.

1 Take care to Focus and Expose on the Subject of the Image

Imagine you are taking a picture of your girl friend against the background of an interesting harbour. Your girl friend is six feet away while the harbour is around 50 feet away. You position your girl friend carefully - she is important to you - at one side of the picture with an interesting view of the harbour in the distance. Now do you want to focus on the harbour - or your girl friend? Position the square or circle at the centre of the viewfinder over the spot that you want to focus on and correctly expose - take a slight pressure on the shutter release - and keep that pressure while you move the camera to frame the image you want to take - then, and only then, push the shutter release fully down and take the photo. If you want to have everything in focus - then see 7 Depth of Field.

2 Carefully Compose Your Shot
Before taking the picture take a careful last look through the viewfinder. Check the composition, and particularly that heads ND feet are included, and that all faces are visible in anything other the smallest of groups. With the camera taking care of focus and exposure - you have the time to concentrate on getting the composition perfect. Photographic amputation of limbs is unforgivable!

3 Set the Colour Balance Correctly on the Camera
Digital cameras have controls that allow the operator to set the nature of the lighting illuminating the subject. In general they will default to daylight, since shots are likely to be taken outdoors. On this setting, pictures taken indoors under artificial tungsten lighting will look yellow - they will have a yellow cast. Pictures taken under strip lighting will look green. Setting the camera appropriately will produce consistent balanced photographs. Look in the camera manual to see how to set the control - it is very easy. Flash guns produce a light, which is very similar in colour 'temperature' to that of daylight

4 Don't Expect Too Much from the On Camera Flash
The on camera flash is designed for convenience when shooting a small group of people. It will not illuminate a hall. When watching public events on the television it is somewhat surprising to see members of the audience in the Albert hall take a pocket camera out and shoot a picture with their flash. This is unlikely to be successful. Better to turn the sensitivity of the camera up - say to 800ASA - the 'film speed', or sensitivity. This might produce a better result. Do not confuse sensitivity of the camera with shutter speed. They are different. An on camera flash will illuminate only a short distance - as a guide pick up your cat firmly with two hands by the tail and swing it around at arms length - that is the sort of distance the flash will illuminate!

5 A Tripod is Essential for Long Distance Shots
Most modern digital cameras come with a zoom lens that can take both wide angle and telephoto shots. This is extremely useful. However remember that when the camera is on its furthest telephoto setting, camera shake will become a problem. If you are taking a telephoto shot and the camera chooses a slow to medium shutter speed, the result might be blurred due to the movement of your hands while taking the exposure. Use a tripod - all wildlife photographers use them. They are a pain to carry but improve quality by orders of magnitude.Read more articles 6 Fast Moving Subject Require a Fast Shutter Speed
The shutter is that part of the camera which opens briefly to allow light to strike the sensitive surface of the detector to produce an image. Fast moving object require extremely short shutter speeds in order to capture a crisp sharp image. Slower shutter speeds will produce a blur as the object moves.In general outdoor photography a shutter speed of 1/60th or 1/125th second will be acceptable. In contrast, shooting a formula one car in motion will require shutter speed of say 1/1000th of a second.

7 A little About Depth of Field
In days past, a photographer would measure the level of light at a location with a light meter and then calculate the best combination of shutter speed and aperture to correctly expose the film. This is now done automatically by the camera. Aperture is the measure of how much light is passing through the lens. The lens has an iris, which can be 'stopped down' to reduce the amount of light passing through the lens. A fully open lens will pass the greatest amount of light - full aperture - but this also reduces the 'depth of field'. The depth of field is the band of distance over which the subject is in focus. In 1 above, with full aperture either your girl friend or the harbour is in focus - but not both. By 'stopping down' the lens - reducing the aperture - both can be brought into focus. But as a consequence the amount of light passing through the lens is reduced. The length of time which the shutter is open will have to be increased to compensate.


8 When taking Landscapes Avoid Putting the Horizon Across the Centre of the Image
Drawing the picture horizon in the middle of the image simply looks naff. It divides the picture in to two and fails to engage the viewer. Best to concentrate on the sky or the foreground. Photograph a setting sun with red sky, or a rainbow with the horizon low in the picture. Or concentrate on the landscape and place the horizon high in the picture. Read more articles 9 Be Aware of the Effects of Back Lighting
Let us go back to the example given in Hint 1. Imagine that in the picture of your girl friend in front of the harbour, the sun is setting, casting its golden rays across the sea and reflecting on the masts and other metal objects of the harbour with white clouds illuminated red in the dying rays of the sun. An evocative and romantic shot. Taking the shot with the camera will result in a beautiful background but a black shadow of a girl friend! Now that might be appropriate should you have had a particularly bad day with her and it might correctly reflect the mood. However using the on camera flash to fill in the darkness - to illuminate her face and show her features might be more appropriate on a better day!

Thanks to: "Aamir" mast13@gmail.com