Archived Vance™

Help your vocals!

2008-07-05T08:00:00.001+08:00

Learning your vocals is exactly similar to playing instruments. It also requires your personal desire, commitment and practice. Without proper instruction from a trusted source, possible injury and permanent damage to the vocal chords may increase. Effectively using proper breath control and good posture can help avoid these kinds of injuries and improve your overall singing abilities.

You can certainly help maintain healthy vocals by:

- Not holding back too much.

-Avoiding yelling or excessive talking with too loud voices.

-Maintaining your singing range and making sure your voice is in a particular range.

-Frequently drinking water once in a while, but do not drink excessive water during a competition.

-Improve your posture & breathing, by doing appropriate breathing exercises.

-Double tracking, to thicken the tone of your voice.

Use your current range to reach what you can do. Do not stop practising.

Trutap, Mobile Messenger and many more

2008-07-05T04:00:00.001+08:00

I was just browsing through the wap (mobile internet) and found a really interesting internet gadget for use in your mobile phone. It supports most of the social networks and access to almost all well-known messengers such as MSN Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, IM and even AOL.

Besides that, Trutap also allows quick posts to Blogger, Blog.com and also Facebook. It also allows comments replies and posts to Friendster and other social networks. It is quick, reliable and a FREE global messaging service which lets you take your social life everywhere you go on your phone.

Features are:
- Add your MSN, Yahoo!, AIM (AOL) and ICQ accounts and chat with your IM friends from your phone! Our multi-chat tool lets you talk to everyone at once!

- Create groups of trutap friends andhave lots of ongoing conversations. Longer messages,unlimited message storage plus photo-messaging too!

- Post comments and upload photos to blogs and photo-sharing sites like Flickr, Blogger, Typepad, Photobucket and more. Update your Facebook status from trutap, wherever you are!

(For more info: click here)

Vance Tan Online is a great supporter of Trutap!

Contact lenses

2008-07-04T04:10:00.003+08:00

A "contact lens" is an object which is usually placed on the cornea of the eye. They usually have the purpose as conventional glasses, but are lightweight and invisible when immersed in cleaning and storage solutions.

There are basically three type of lenses catagorised under the contact lenses:

1. Hard lenses which are rarely used in Brunei.

2. Soft lenses which are soft lenses made up of gel-like contained in plastics.

3. GP lenses which are waterless plastic lenses and are recommended for people suffering from presbyopia.

A daily wear type of contact lense must be removed every night before bed while a contact lense with extended wear could be worn while you're asleep and could last for maximum seven consecutive days.

There are at least four types of lense disposal times. The first one is daily disposable, the one you must replace everyday. Dispsable (daytime), which could be replaced every two weeks. Disposable (used overnight), to be replaced every one week. Lastly, the continuous wear one which could be replaced only after one month. However, a planned replacement could be replaced on a monthly basis or anytime according to the user's desire.

Five most important telephone numbers

2008-07-03T04:57:00.003+08:00

Today lets brief and remind ourselves about the five most important numbers that you really need to know in Brunei Darussalam.

Four of the numbers should be used only during emergency. The last one should obviously be remembered at all times.

#1. Ambulance = 991

#2. Police = 993

#3. Fire bridgade = 995

#4. Search and rescue = 998

#5. Your own phone number = +673 ********...(no, i won't reveal your phone number)

Take care and be happy always in Brunei. Better save those numbers in your phone contact before you forget them.

VanceTan Motivations: Appreciations

2008-07-02T06:57:00.004+08:00

How many of you realised that your feet has been with you for so long years without leaving you alone. When you're in a football match, it is your feet which helps you to play. When you want to travel, your feet is there for you. When you are dancing, your feet supports you.

Imagine, if one day, you have lost your feet, what would happen? Imagine and visualise, who is the person in your house whom is similar to your feet. If one day, that person is not there for you, what wil happen?

When we care for our face, do we care for our feet? When we care about how good-looking we are, have we cared for how good-looking our feet are? Do we care how ugly or nice our feet are? Do we care how dirty or clean our feet are?

When we hurt our feet, it did not say anything but kept on supporting our body. Who is the person in your life who resembles this feet of yours, supporting you all the way without saying anything or complaining to you even if that person is in pain?

Think about it for a few minutes. There is a person beside you just like your feet. A person who supports you all the way, the person who gives you advice but never expects a compliment and the person who accepts pain that you gave.

Do appreciate that person just like you appreciate your face, your look and your facial expression because if that person is not around anymore, you may regret for not appreciating that person.

A minute in different context

2008-06-30T02:09:00.002+08:00

Where does the word minute comes from? Is it originally an English word? The word "minute" actually originated from the Babylonians when they divided dusk and dawn into twelve equal parts.These parts were back then known as hours. Around the 1600s-1700s, clocks divided these hours into smaller parts called minutes.Besides time, minute (pronounced mai-newt) also means very small in size.

For example, "He took a minute amount of food." However, most of the time, we often refer to minute (mee-nit).There could be many things happening in just one minute.For example, in the used-to-be planet Pluto, one minute means ~247.5 minutes on Earth. That means if you were late for one minute in Pluto, that was like ~5 minutes late on Earth.

Now, lets talk about a minute in our daily activites.It was found out that an average human blinks about 15 times in one minute because a blink lasts for about 100-150 milliseconds. Whenever we blink our eyes, oxygen is allowed to enter the eyes to regulate the mositure in our cornea ( a part in our eyes).

We all do sweat everyday, and as an adult, we produces two-thirds of a cup of sweat in every minute during heavy exercise without we realising them. That's possible because our body contains about 2.32 million of sweat glands and men has more of them than women. So, that's no wonder men sweat more than women do.

Top 5 reasons to use a DSLR Camera

2008-06-28T04:05:00.002+08:00

1. DSLRs can be instantly startup which has more advantages over a digicam as it will usually take several seconds to startup a digital camera, and then you may have to wait for it to focus.

2. DSLRs display less noise is a result of the larger sensor. With your typical digital camera, you may get only image quality at anything below the ISO setting. Whereas in your DSLR, you can actually make acceptable prints even at some of the highest ISO settings.

3. DSLRs use a sensors which translates the object taken directly to higher image qualities in terms of details, color depth, and dynamic range.

4. DSLRs are built to much higher standards, increasingly so as you get into the more expensive models of course. In overall, they're more durable than a digital camera.

5. DSLRs are practically affordable by everybody now because the price of DSLRs will go down as soon as a new model arrives in the market.

p/s: VanceTan currently uses Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ18 as shown in the picture.

What's DSLR anyway?

2008-06-27T04:22:00.002+08:00

A DSLR camera is the abbreviation for digital single-lens reflex camera that uses an automatic mirror system and pentaprism or pentamirror to direct light from the lens through the viewfinder eyepiece.

The basic operation of a DSLR is for viewing purposes. Basically, the mirror reflects the light coming through the attached lens upwards at an approximately 90 degree angle. It is then reflected by the pentaprism to the photographer's eye. During exposure that is during a photograph is bring taken, the mirror swings upwards and opens the shutter to allow the lens to project light onto the image sensor.

Interchangeable lenses for DSLRs are built to operate correctly with a specific lens mount that is generally unique to each brand. Photographers often use lenses made by the same manufacturer as the camera body although there are also many other independent lens manufacturers that make lenses for a variety of different lens mounts.

The fact about DSLRs is that any DSLRs would produce a blurred image if there's no lighting. Images produced during the night would often be not clear or may have less pixels. However, a DSLR in another hand, produced high quality pixels during the day. Besides, the optical zoom of a DSLR would again be better than a digital camera.

p/s: Feel the difference of photos in VanceTan Online because the author is currently using DSLR Panasonic Lumix DZ18

Mobile waves may destroy you!

2008-06-25T06:15:00.003+08:00

Mobile telephones are hand-held phones with built-in antennas and are popular within callers because they can be carried easily from place to place. Mobile phone radiation have raised health concerns especially due to the enormous increase in the use of its technology throughout the world. This is because mobile phones use electromagnetic radiation in the microwave range.

However, there are some recommendations for mobile phone users to minimise the effects of the microwave radiation emitted by mobile phones. Some of the recommendations include the following:

1. Try to keep mobile phones away from the body when not in use. i.e. not calling or receiving calls.
2. Use hands-free kits (usually provided by the mobile phone manufacturer) to decrease the radiation to the head and then the brain.
3. Reducing the usage of mobile phones and increasing the distance between the user and the radiofrequency source could reduce the impact of the waves on our body.

As shown in the video, the mobile phones waves are so strong that they could even fly pop-corns to a few centimetres upwards. So, this proves that the waves may also penetrate through our brains if frequently used and may result in brain damage.

Cleaning your toilet properly

2008-06-24T07:28:00.001+08:00

WARNING: DO NOT READ THIS POST WHILE EATING/DRINKING. MAY CAUSE VOMITTING

Nobody would admit they like to clean a toilet especially if its full of disgusting materials getting stuck in the holes and urine sprays are all over the floor. Well, it is also not a fun job, but someone has got to do something. However, the major problem is that most people just did it the wrong way which affects in a dirtier toilet.

1. Before anything starts, don't forget to protect your eyes with goggle from chemicals and splatters. You may also need to use a glove so that you won't have to dirty your hands and besides it makes cleaning much more easier.

2. To start off with the cleaning, wipe the toilet or rather scrub it with a damp sponge. Moisten the sponge by placing it in hot water and then use it to wipe around the toilet bowl. This process removes excess dirt and helps disperse the cleaning product.

3. Remember to remove any items around the toilet bowl so that those items will not drop into the bowl during the cleaning process.

4. Pour some toilet washing liquid (or coca-coca may also do) inside the bowl. Wash the bowl starting from the rim and then scrub the bowl with a toilet brush. Swab the interior of the bowl, paying special attention to the area immediately beneath the rim and also the water line.

5. Finally, take a final clean to the seat, rim, and the inside lid of the toilet bowl. Raise the seat and remove your brush. Spray the whole toilet bowl with cleaner and then wipe clean with paper towels. Remember also to wipe clean the area behind the hinges next to the tank. When everything is done, throw the paper towels away.

Now you may get a great compliment from your boss or anybody you're cleaning the toilet for, because they will be sitting on a shiny, clean toilet to be proud of.

Health is Wealth

2008-06-20T01:54:00.007+08:00

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.Our health is our biggest asset - more than even happiness, at times. Therefore, please do take the time to read and then do what you will. After all, the choice is in your hands. You have the right to make your own decision for yourself and nobody can do more to stop you.

SATAY LOVERS (BARBECUE)
Dear Satay Lovers, after consuming Satay, do not forget to eat some cucumber, because eating Satay together with carbon after barbequing can cause cancer. But now, we have a solution for that case. Cucumber should be eaten after we eat the Satay because Satay contains carcinogen, which is a cancer causing element, and cucumber is anti-carcinogenic. Obviously, don't forget to eat the cucumber the next time you consume your Satays.

PRAWNS & VIT C
Now, to all prawn lovers, make sure that you do not take prawns after taking Vitamin C tablets. The prawn will cause you to die in ARSENIC toxication within hours! Symptoms of people suffer from arsenic includes violent stomach pains in the region of the bowels, excessive saliva production, vomiting, diarrhea, urinary organs occasionally affected with violent burning pains and suppression, convulsions and cramps, eyes red and sparkling, delirium and finally death.

SHAMPOO!
There are recent reports of cancer-causing substances found in shampoos. Do check up your shampoo that you use daily. Make sure that the ingredients listed on your shampoo bottle do not contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate, or simply SLS. This substance is found in most shampoos; manufacturers use it because it produces a lot of foam and it is cheap. But the fact is, SLS is used to scrub garage floors, and it is extremely strong and harmful! It is also proven that it can cause cancer in the long run, and this is no joke.

“The only way to keep your health is to eat what you don't want, drink what you don't like, and do what you'd rather not.”- Mark Twain

Chinese Courier

2008-06-19T09:56:00.006+08:00

Have a good laugh with this Chinese delivery & have a good start today! And enjoy its... Innovative Delivery Method, the Chinese ways...forget about DHL, UPS or even FedEx!!! Enjoy Reading...

A family in the Southern Province of China, were puzzled when the coffin of their dead grandmother arrived from the States. It was sent by one of the daughters. The dead body was so tightly squeezed inside the coffin, with no space left in it! When they opened the lid, they found a letter on top; which read as follows:

"Dear Cousins, I am sending Ah-ma's (grandma in Chinese) body to you since it was her wish that she should be cremated in the compound of our ancestral home in Tung Shin. Sorry, I could not come along as all of my paid leaves are consumed.

You will find inside the coffin, under Ah-ma's body, 12 cans of Yohmeitsu, 10 packets of Swiss chocolates and packets of Chinatown Lap Cheong. Please divide these among all of you. On Ah-ma's feet you will find a new pair of Nike Air shoes (size 10) for Ah boy. Also, there are 2 pairs of shoes for Ah Mei's and Ah Lien's sons. Hope the sizes are correct. Ah-ma is wearing 6 CK T-Shirts. The large size is for Ah Bak and the others are for my nephews.

Just distribute them among yourselves. The 2 new Armani Jeans that Ah-ma is wearing are for the boys. The Rolex watch that Lee Ah Bai wanted is on Ahma's left wrist. Kiasu Aunty Pei Pei , Ahma is wearing the Tiffany necklace, earrings and ring that you asked for. Please take them. The 6 white Polo cotton socks that Ah ma is wearing must be divided among my teenage cousins.
Let me know what else you need as Ah Kong (grandpa in Chinese) is also not feeling well nowadays. I can send all required things when our Ah Kong goes back too..."

The different padlocks of Wiki Articles

2008-06-18T14:16:00.011+08:00

Wikipedia is a free, multilingual, open content encyclopedia project operated by the non-profit Wikimedia Foundation. Its name is a portmanteau of the words wiki (a technology for creating collaborative websites) and encyclopedia. Wikipedia was launched in 2001 by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger. It is currently the largest, fastest-growing, and most popular general reference work on the Internet.

Surprisingly, not every article in Wikipedia are free to edit or change. The editing of an article depends on the colour of the padlock present beside each article. There are currently 6 padlock colours with different protection value.

A fully protected page may only be edited by administrators. The protection may be of a limited duration, such as 7 or 14 days, or may expire at a certain time.
Any modification to a fully protected page should be discussed on its talk page or another appropriate forum.

Semi-protection prevents edits from anonymous users (IP addresses), or from accounts which are not autoconfirmed. Administrators may apply indefinite semi-protection to pages which are subjected to heavy and persistent vandalism.

Creation protection: non-existent pages may be protected, for any length of time, if they are repeatedly re-created following deletion in line with the deletion policy. Administrators may apply protection to non-existent pages with the same procedure as with all other pages.

Permanent protection: some areas of Wikipedia are permanently protected by the MediaWiki software. The MediaWiki namespace, which defines parts of the site interface, is fully protected; administrators cannot remove this protection.

Move protection: move-protected pages cannot be moved to a new title except by an administrator. Move protection is commonly applied to pages subject to persistent page-move vandalism.

Office protection: as outlined at Wikipedia:Office actions, pages may be protected by Wikimedia Foundation staff in response to issues such as copyright or libel. Such actions override community consensus.

Traffic Games 2008 @ OGDC

2008-06-17T22:47:00.009+08:00

Vance Tan was at the Traffic Games 2008 (from 16th June to 18th June) with this year's theme, "Towards Enhancing the Nation's Awareness on Traffic Safety". Well, the people at the OGDC are extremely friendly and easily approachable.

Anyway, the game was hosted for 35 schools over the three days with each round comprising of three schools. The top six schools who scored the most points would then enrage into the Grand Finals which will be held on the 28th June (may subject to last minute change)

Well, good luck to all teams and hope you are able to enter the final rounds although you might miss me because I won't be there on the 28th June. Just relax and everything should be alright.

On top of all that, thanks to the Head of OGDC for allowing me to volunteer in helping out the Traffic Games. In addition, thanks also for the meals during my three days stay.

Stage fright busters :)

2008-06-16T22:07:00.001+08:00

All performers suffer from nerves to some degree. This problem is, in part, the consequence of a sensitive and artistic temperament. You don't have to let the situation control you. Here are some tips on how you can walk on that stage with confidence and perfection.

1. Practice, practice and practice. Make sure you practice your part again and again before the start of the show.

2. Do deep breathing exercises to calm down yourself if you're nervous. Breathe in and out frequently, imagine your lungs as a tire around your body expanding and contracting on the back and sides of your torso, not just the front.

3. Avoid rushing or being distracted before the start of the event. Rushing may actually lose your self-confidence.

4. Do not be afraid of your audience, imagine that you are the master of your presentation. If you lack of self-confidence, then your whole presentation is totally destroyed. The best suggestion is to know your points to reduce your anxiety.

5. Think positive. During the real day, make your show a celebration and not a practice. It is always a "NOW or NEVER".

Tips - for you - to edit an article

2008-06-15T14:52:00.002+08:00

Substantive editing includes much more than correcting errors in grammar and copyediting. Editing skills provide the foundation for ensuring consistency and clarity in writing and display. Credibility and discoverability increases when consistency in grammar, punctuation, and style is applied.

By skillfully removing redundancies, weak verbs, abstract nouns, and misused passive verbs, information transfer will be more effective. Interpersonal skills are a key part of communicating these improvements, especially when interacting with those having different skill sets. The ability to explain editing decisions to justify how they improve comprehension is a crucial tool.

In order to be a real expert in editing, you may need to know the basics of editing a material regardless the type given to you. Besides, you should posses a wide range of ideas to add into the actual article. Do take note of the verbs and nouns of the article to be edited (for English edits).

You may need to accept that your edits will not satisfy all readers so it is more advisable to ask someone that you trust to judge your edits. In addition, he/she could also read aloud your edits to see if there are more edits needed.

As one improves their editing skills, one learns that writing is a process that really never ends. The process of learning continues until the end of our life. In fact, most good writers and editors will look at their own work and think about ways they could change it. The perfection and enthusiasm in writing is always needed. Good editing skills won’t make your writing perfect, but they can make writing clearer and easier to understand.

Smoking kills you slowly, not quickly

2008-06-14T14:14:00.002+08:00

Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body causing many diseases and reducing the health of smokers in general. More deaths are caused each year by tobacco use than by all deaths from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), illegal drug use, alcohol use, motor vehicle injuries, suicides, and murders.

One in two lifetime smokers will die from their habit. Half of these deaths will occur in middle age. The mixture of nicotine and carbon monoxide in each cigarette you smoke temporarily increases your heart rate and blood pressure, straining your heart and blood vessels. This can cause heart attacks and stroke. It slows your blood flow, cutting off oxygen to your feet and hands. Some smokers end up having their limbs amputated.

Remember that smoking is not a fast way to die and get rid of your problems. The strain put on your body by smoking often causes years of suffering. Emphysema is an illness that slowly rots your lungs. People with emphysema often get bronchitis again and again, and suffer lung and heart failure.

The tar in tobacco smoke may cause lung cancer. Men who smoke are ten times more likely to die from lung cancer than non-smokers.Heart disease and strokes are also likely to enrage among smokers than non-smokers. Besides, smoking also causes fat deposits to narrow and block blood vessels which leads to heart attack.

Nowadays, youngsters smoke because they are considered as a fad and think that they could not make friends if they do not smoke. In spite of that, the choice is in your hands.

What should you avoid in a meeting?

2008-06-13T19:40:00.008+08:00

A cold environment, a round table, comfortable armchairs, a huge interactive board, down-lights and a projector. Now you've got the picture of a meeting room or lately as a conference room. Its the place where people share thoughts and discuss with among each other on certain matter and expect listening ears.

Going into a meeting well prepared is important, but once in the meeting room, it's as important to avoid the lurking dangers. Basically, there are certain rules to follow as to prevent irritation to the others in the meeting room.

1. The golden rule for each and every meeting usually comprises of only two simple words: Be early! Bosses and managers all throughout the whole world wouldbe very happy if you are always early for meetings. This shows your commitment to discuss an issue and besides saves his/her time. Remember that, if you are early for a meeting, it will end early too.

2. Switch off your phone once in the meeting room or at least turn your phone to silent mode. This could actually reduce the unwanted pauses while the discussion is "on-the-go".

3. Avoid hallucinating during a meeting. It would be really embarassing when you suddenly falls asleep in the middle of the talk so the best thing to do is of course get enough sleep before the meeting.

4. As mentioned, a meeting is expecting the members to suggest and listen. Do not immediately argue and critisize any suggestions by others. Listen and analyse the information suggested and then give your opinions.

5. Be an active speaker. Minimumly, engage yourself in the discussion in anyway as along as you do not offend the rest or show rude body language.

6. Try not leave the meeting room in a hurry. Leaving the work done in the meeting or forgetting what you heard or learned is non-productive. Look at the handouts and start thinking on how you could implement strategies. If you do not understand part of the conversation, try to ask any of your colleagues or even research on the internet.

Get the most from the meeting table by contributing as an active participant and great listener. Do not go into a meeting just because of being forced to.

Why are you still so thin?

2008-06-12T20:21:00.006+08:00

Ever wondered why you are still so thin after consuming large amounts of food daily? The one and only easy answer is of course due to our metabolism rate.

Metabolism is the set of chemical reactions that occur in living organisms in order to maintain life. These processes allow organisms to grow and reproduce, maintain their structures, and respond to their environments.

Metabolism is usually divided into two categories. Catabolism breaks down large molecules, for example to harvest energy in cellular respiration. Anabolism, on the other hand, uses energy to construct components of cells such as proteins and nucleic acids.

People with high metabolism rate tend to have a high speed of digestion in the alimentary canal, thus, reducing the time for the fats to develop. This is vice-versa for people who have slighly slower metabolism rate. Metabolism rates are mostly due to the genetic hereditary from parents to their children.

Topic contributed by: Veroney Sahlan (VanceTan Online Crew)

Today SMPJNPHAB against MS

2008-06-12T12:43:00.003+08:00

This morning VanceTan was in the Dewan Raya RTB to watch the live casting of eXplomath 2008 Final Rounds between SMPJNPHAB (Science School KB) and MS (Science School BSB).

This event will take place next year again and will be probably hosted by SMPJNPHAB, Kuala Belait. The game was a good one for this year as both teams did quite well with 10 points difference.

The following are some profile of the contestants from Maktab Sains:

(FORM 5)
Name: Tiah Wee Hean @ Teck Hean
Birthdate: 6th February 1992
Favourite Subject: Mathematics and Physics
Hobbies: Playing Basketball and computer games

(FORM 4)
Name: Leong Yongmao
Birthdate: 27th May 1993
Favourite Subject: Mathematics and Additional Mathematics
Hobbies: Playing computer games and reading books
Ambition: Teacher

(FORM 3)
Name: Han Yi Chour
Birthdate: 7th January 1995
Favourite subject: Mathematics
Hobbies: Playing Basketball

(FORM 2)
Name: Han Tzuen Chour
Birthdate:9th February 1996
Favourite subject: Mathematics
Hobbies: Playing basketball

When is Father's Day?

2008-06-11T06:42:00.002+08:00

Fathers' Day is celebrated on the 3rd Sunday in June since being made a national holiday in 1966. In Australia and New Zealand, fathers are honoured the first Sunday in September.

Standardized Fathers' Day is on the following:

2008 June 15 September 7
2009 June 21 September 6
2010 June 20 September 5
2011 June 19 September 4

Why is design important?

2008-06-08T08:51:00.001+08:00

Design is first and foremost a philosophy, based on a system of values, which seeks to solve problems. What are we creating? Why and for whom? Are we correctly framing the problem to be solved?

One of the basics of the importance of design is for differentiation of products or services. Every piece of information we ingest or that has been communicated to us has been "created" whether by man, nature - with purpose or by accident. It is the designers that try to put purpose or organization to the flow of information.

They put order in the way the message/idea/information is communicated. Whatever the point of the message is; who the intended recipient is; what voice you want the message relayed dictates how we approach the concept and/or execution.

Now the tools and techniques from the field of design such as ethnographic research, rapid prototyping and conceptual brainstorming integrate with the pragmatic business frameworks of strategy, analysis and metrics to create and provide roadmaps for business innovation and competitive advantage. In this context, design has evolved away from traditional form giving to becoming an integral part of corporate strategy.

Design and technology is carried out in most schools in the country to enhance the capability of the nation and to explore their talents and abilities.

Sheep, duck and rooster

2008-06-05T13:12:00.002+08:00

The first animals to ride hot air balloon were a sheep, duck and rooster.

On the 19th September 1783 Pilatre De Rozier, a scientist, launched the first hot air balloon called 'Aerostat Reveillon'. The passengers were a sheep, a duck and a rooster and the balloon stayed in the air for a grand total of 15 minutes before crashing back to the ground.

The first manned attempt came about 2 months later on 21st November, with a balloon made by 2 French brothers, Joseph and Etienne Montgolfier. The balloon was launched from the centre of Paris and flew for a period of 20 minutes. The birth of hot air ballooning!!!

Just 2 years later in 1785 a French balloonist, Jean Pierre Blanchard, and his American co pilot, John Jefferies, became the first to fly across the English Channel. In these early days of ballooning, the English Channel was considered the first step to long distance ballooning so this was a large benchmark in ballooning history.

Unfortunately, this same year Pilatre de Rozier (the world's first balloonist) was killed in his attempt at crossing the channel. His balloon exploded half an hour after takeoff due to the experimental design of using a hydrogen balloon and hot air balloon tied together.

About Green Potatoes

2008-06-03T19:52:00.008+08:00

Green = vegetables = good, right?
Not when it comes to potatoes.

Here's an important piece of information that my mother taught me years ago, but fewer and fewer people these days seem to know about. Green in potatoes indicates the presence of a rather harmful toxin.

When you see patches of green in your potatoes as you peel them, cut out the green parts entirely and discard them. What is the green? Actually it's chlorophyll. Not bad for you at all. But the chlorophyll indicates that the potato has been exposed to sunlight. And where the potato has been exposed to light is where a natural toxin in the potato (solanine) becomes concentrated at harmful levels.

So, never store your potatoes on the counter. Always keep them in a cool, completely dark place. According to the Wikipedia, deep-frying potatoes at a high temperature (306°F) effectively lowers the level of toxins. But boiling them (212°F) has no effect. Best to stay on the safe side and just cut away the green parts. The potato sprouts can also have concentrated solanine, so those too should never be eaten.

Interesting Facts about Warren Buffet

2008-06-01T09:04:00.005+08:00

There was a one hour interview on CNBC with Warren Buffet, the richest man who has donated $31 billion to charity. Following are some very interesting aspects of his life.

1. He bought his first share at the age of 11 and he now regreted that he started too late.
"Things were very cheap that time, encourage your children to invest"-Warren Buffet

2. He bought a small farm at the age of 14 with savings from delivering newspapers.
"One could have bought many things with little savings. Encourage your children to start some kind of business"-Warren Buffet

3. He still lives in the same small 3-bedroom house in mid-town Omaha, that he bought after he got married 50 years ago. He says that he has everything he needs in that house. His house does not even has a fence.
"Don't buy more than what you really need and encourage your children to do and think the same"-Warren Buffet

4. He drives his own car everywhere and does not have a driver or security people around him.
"You are what you are"-Warren Buffet

5. He never travels by private jet, although he owns the world's largest private jet company.
"Always think how you can accomplish things economically"-Warren Buffet

6. His Company, Berkshire Hathaway, owns 63 companies. He writes only one letter each year to the CEOs of these companies, giving them goals for the year. He never holds meetings or calls them on a regular basis.
"Assign the right person to the right jobs"-Warren Buffet

7. He has given his CEOs only two rules.

Rule number 1: Do not lose any of your share holder's money.
Rule number 2: Do not forget rule number 1.

"Set goals and make sure people focus on them"-Warren Buffet

8. He does not socialize with the high society crowd. His past time after he gets home is to make himself some popcorn and watch television.
"Don't try to show off, just be yourself and do what you enjoy doing"-Warren Buffet

9. Warren Buffet does not carry a cell phone nor has a computer on his desk.

10. Bill Gates, met him for the first time only 5 years ago. Bill Gates did not think he had anything common with Warren Buffet. So, he had scheduled his meeting only for half an hour. But when Gates met him, the meeting lasted for ten hours and Bill Gates became a devotee of Warren Buffet.

How to deal with exams?

2008-05-30T12:07:00.005+08:00

All students stress, even the one with high grades, they stress to remain at the top, and is even more scared to loose that spot then the struggling student. Even your parents deal with job stress, but exam stress is so easy to deal with. Here are some tips:

1. Believing That You Will Pass
What you think about all day long, is what will come to pass, and you have to keep your mind set on getting that diploma.

2. Listening To Music
A little music is good for the soul and will help calm the nerves

3. Relaxing The Mind
Focus on something positive, smile and keep only positive feelings flowing through your mind at that moment, breath slowly and try not to think about the exams.

4. Peace And Quiet
Find someplace quiet, where your alone, and try to really get some sleep, not getting enough sleep brings on even more stress.

5. Exercise
This is the best stress reliever. If your mind is focussed and your muscles are active, your body will relax. Try to do some type of exercises, like yoga, tai-chi, kick boxing, stretching, body-building or any type of sports exercise that involves mind body and soul.

Congratulations to Pinky Diamonds!

2008-05-28T20:58:00.010+08:00

Congratulations to Pinky Diamonds for being VTB's Best Rated Blog of 2008. 5 blogs were randomly picked and out of the 568 votes received, hosted by an external website, Pinky Diamonds won the votes with an amazing percentage of 69%.

Here are the full summary of the votes:

Pinky Diamonds - 69%
Shidah - 10%
Runaway Model - 8%
RebirthReborn - 8%
Naz - 5%

Pinky Diamonds therefore gets a free 12-month banner subscription on all pages on VanceTan Blog.

There will be more to come soon only at VanceTan Blog. Next five blogs for VTB's Best Graphics Blog of 2008 to be voted are: Ikh, Eny, Sleepy 838, Scrapping Sisters and Sepulchral Orchestra. The winner will get a 6-months banner subscription (worth $1200) on all pages of PJN Network. Votes can be done here.

What makes a strong password?

2008-05-27T19:34:00.004+08:00

Passwords provide the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your computer. The stronger your password, the more protected your computer will be from hackers and malicious software. You should make sure you have strong passwords for all accounts on your computer. If you're using a corporate network, your network administrator might require you to use a strong password.

A strong password:
-Is at least eight characters long.
-Does not contain your user name, real name, or company name.
-Does not contain a complete word.
-Is significantly different from previous passwords.
-Contains characters from each of the following four categories:

Help yourself remember your strong password by following these tips:

1. Create an acronym from an easy-to-remember piece of information. For example, pick a phrase that is meaningful to you, such as My son's birthday is 12 December, 2004. Using that phrase as your guide, you might use Msbi12/Dec,4 for your password.
2. Substitute numbers, symbols, and misspellings for letters or words in an easy-to-remember phrase. For example, My son's birthday is 12 December, 2004 could become Mi$un's Brthd8iz 12124 (it's OK to use spaces in your password).
3. Relate your password to a favorite hobby or sport. For example, I love to play badminton could become ILuv2PlayB@dm1nt()n.

Top 5 tips to be a great party deejay

2008-05-21T14:58:00.010+08:00

Music and entertainment are essential elements of a party and getting it right can make or break a party! It is a difficult decision to make with so many different varieties of bands, entertainers and DJs available. It is no wonder that so many people are having trouble on deciding whether to have live music or a DJ for their wedding reception. However, if you're one of those wanting to be a party DJ as a beginning, the following steps should be taken into consideration.

1. The audience:
You should know very well who your audiences are. Different audiences of different age groups have different tastes. As a party deejay or presenter, you should be able to adapt to the environment of your audiences because your main duty is to please other people, and not yourself.

2. The choices of songs:
Again, a great deejay needs to know very well how to randomize the song selections. Songs can range from techno, R & B, rock, pop and balada but on top of all that, it should suite the demand of the listeners.

3. The target:
Remember that the people throwing the party hired you obviously because they liked you already. However, the people who come to dance and have a good time are your judges. These are the people you really need to impress. Who knows, they might hire you.

4. Ensure that your music is up to date:
Make sure that you have a wide range of music including the most recent chart-topping songs. Even though you might obtain music from internet downloads, this is definitely not the approach a professional DJ should take.

5. Ensure that you know the dress code:
Always ask about the dress code of the party. You should always dress in a manner that is appropriate for the occasion. A DJ is a service provider and should always be themely dressed.

Good luck deejays!

Most expensive perfume in the world

2008-05-19T09:45:00.001+08:00

Imperial Majesty, which costs $215,000 a bottle, is the most expensive perfume in the world. Would it smell as sweet at any other price?

Actually, yes. Imperial Majesty is a limited edition of a Clive Christian signature scent. Sold simply as No. 1, the fragrance is priced at $2,150 an ounce. But the reason Imperial Majesty costs so much is that Christian, a British designer-turned-perfumer, poured 16.9 ounces of No. 1 into a Baccarat crystal bottle, stuck a five-carat diamond into the 18-carat gold collar and unveiled it at Harrods in London and Bergdorf Goodman in New York City this past holiday season.

Ada siapa yang mau bali perfume ani? Raise up your hands! Calling once..calling twice...calling thrice...Baik lagi balikan laptop for me..

William Shakespear-greatest writer and dramatist

2008-05-18T06:15:00.002+08:00

William Shakespeare was an English poet and playwright, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. He is often called England's national poet and the "Bard of Avon" (or simply "The Bard"). His surviving works consist of 38 plays,154 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and several other poems. His plays have been translated into every major living language, and are performed more often than those of any other playwright.

Shakespeare was born and raised in Stratford-upon-Avon. At the age of 18 he married Anne Hathaway, who bore him three children: Susanna, and twins Hamnet and Judith. Between 1585 and 1592 he began a successful career in London as an actor, writer, and part owner of the playing company the Lord Chamberlain's Men, later known as the King's Men. He appears to have retired to Stratford around 1613, where he died three years later. Few records of Shakespeare's private life survive, and there has been considerable speculation about such matters as his sexuality, religious beliefs, and whether the works attributed to him were written by others.

Shakespear's autograph was also believed to worth 500,000 USD

8 harmful foods that might make you ill

2008-05-17T06:05:00.002+08:00

Reduce consumption on the following food. They may make you ill or even kill you over long consumption.

1. Preserved egg: When manufacturer preserved eggs, often increases the quota, if we eat frequently, can cause of poisoning. At the same time, calcareous could drain in the body.

2. Strong-smelling fermented beancurd: The strong-smelling fermented beancurd in the fermentative process, extremely easily by the microbial contamination, simultaneously can volatilize the massive salt base nitrogen.

3. Monosodium glutamate: Each person absorbs the quantity every day to
the monosodium glutamate, take does not surpass six male grams as the principle, eat much is harmful and unhealthy.

4. Spinach: The spinach nutrition is rich, but because includes the oxalic acid, sends in food the precious element zinc and the calcium union, but is discharged in vitro, which causes the human body zinc and calcium lacking.

5. Barbecue: Because barbecue in smokes roasts in the process, can produce like "the benzene" and so on the deleterious substance, is induces the cancer the factor.

6. Pickles: The pickles if manufactures does not get the knack of, contains the carcinogen, and contains the nitric acid amine, which can be a cause of sickness when taken for a long time.

7. Cruller: In the cruller potassium alum, is contains the aluminum the inorganic substance, may not frequently edible.

8. Steamed bun

10 things that you may not know about wikipedia

2008-05-16T05:55:00.001+08:00

Wikipedia is the best encyclopaedia so far. Here are some facts about them:

1. They're not for sale.
2. Their work can be used by everyone, with a few conditions.
3. They speak Banyumasan language, which is a mixture of 250 languages all over the world.
4. You can't actually change anything in Wikipedia because you can only add to it.
5. They care deeply about the quality of our work.
6. They do not expect you to trust them.
7. They are not alone. Wikipedia is part of a growing movement for free knowledge that is beginning to permeate science and education. The Wikimedia Foundation directly operates eight sister projects to the encyclopedia.
8. They are only collectors. Articles in Wikipedia are not signed, and contributors are unpaid volunteers.
9. They're neither a dictatorship nor any other political system.
10. They're in it for the long haul and want Wikipedia to be around at least a hundred years.

Hair style do matter

2008-05-15T22:45:00.007+08:00

A person's hairstyle adds defenition to one's personality and self image. When it matters in the workplace with employers and a company's image, does a employee's hair image have first priority? Does a certain hairstyle, urk nerves, gain compliments, maybe even a promotion consideration?

For instance, a person looking for a job needs to be aware of his or her appearance. This is nothing new to employment searchers. Now let's see, if a woman's hair is permed or relaxed, and looking nice and neat it carries a better image on that job seeker's behalf, hmmm now what about a natural-no-weave-woman? It can be said that "some" natural styles are acceptable if maintained properly. For years locks (not dreadlocks) were taboo in the workplace. Now because of the increase for more natural preferences of hair, the workplace is now seeing an increase in locks.

What about braids-French braids, cornrows, micros, etc? Now this is just my personal opinion though I see that depending on what kind of job a person desires, influences the type of hairstyle worn. I've heard some older people say that french braids are for "How may I help you? @ Wendy's, McDonald's and Burger King jobs" but is that really the case? Do hairstyles, braids especially carry that much stereotypical weight?

Does a afro worn by either a man or woman play a role in job acceptance or promotion consideration? Does businesses codes and rule books legally justify this pickiness of hairstyle image? Are business owners' or coporate places too scrutining about image or is it all fair and the real problem lies within job seekers who just don't wanna let go of a comfort "hair" zone?

F.Y.I: My friends do look like artistes, don't they? Bruneian kali ah.

Homework, homework and homework!

2008-05-15T17:02:00.004+08:00

The debate over homework has been heating up amid the annually renewed battles between parents and students over getting it completed. Is homework really necessary? Does it really help us to study? Well, homework is used to reinforce and recap what we did in school.

1. Homework obviously helps us remember what we had studied during school hours.
2. It can also allow us to do some research and obtain some useful information which we might not know. This helps to strengthen our general knowledge.
3. Homework can also give a sense of responsibility to us. It is very important for us to be responsible so that we can suceed. (Refer to number 10 here!)
4.Believe it of not, doing homework can actually be a way of exercising our brains. Whenever we thinks of something, our brain is actually exercising.
5. Doing homework also prevents us from watching too much television. It also has been proven that think doing homework can burn off excess calories.

Most of all, it can engage parents in school life. The best homework policy would be those that require teachers to create homework assignments that are "interactive" and to include activities children can do with their parents or their older siblings.

What to do with acne?

2008-05-14T16:22:00.003+08:00

People are nowadays concerned with acne control and maintaining a good look because of all of the stress in their lives, as well as poor diets and an unsuitable environment that can lead them to have acne and skin problems. In actual fact, there are several ways in which a person can both fight off acne and provide yourself with acne control.

1. Women need to avoid oil-based makeup as it will only increase acne flare-ups.
2. Make sure that you are eating a good diet and drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water each day.
3. Do not use suntan lotion on your face because it is oil-based and will clog your pores even more.
4. Wear a hat and sunglasses whenever you must be in the sun, otherwise avoid the sun as much as possible.
5. Do not use any harsh chemical products that may irritate your skin.
6. Only wash your face two times a day: once in the morning and once in the evening.
7. Get 8 or 9 hours of sleep each night.
8. Keep stress to a minimum.

How to be a professional and great presenter? - Dedicated to all OGDC Campers

2008-05-12T15:54:00.005+08:00

Professional speaking entails a lot of different unique professions which really concentrate on public speaking without many other duties. This career can be perfect for those who love to speak to others and can really drive home a message. While it might not seem like a marketable skill that is in great demand, it often surprises people to hear almost all companies are in desperate need of good professional speakers. With a little research and some luck anyone with good speaking abilities can get into the field of professional speaking.

Often we hear the words, “He or she is a good speaker". But the question is HOW? Here are some facts of good presenters:

1. Great presenters have presence and are centered.
2. Great presenters exude energy and enthusiasm, whether on or off the platform.
3. Great presenters have developed a quiet, but obvious, confidence and have the ability to control every situation – foreseen and unforeseen.
4. Great presenters use bullet points for their slides.
5. Great presenters make the audience lively and understand what you are saying.
6. Great presenters organise their speech into chunks:
As an example, 30 minutes could be broken up as follows:
- A five minute opening
- Three chunks of seven minutes where you talk about three different points using some variety while delivering those messages.
- A closing of four minutes perhaps to give out handouts or take a question or two then finish big with a call to action.
7. Great presenters use their body wisely. It's always okay to jump up and down to show that you're energetic (applies only to informal presentation)
8. Great presenters make their audience feel comfortable. i.e.not being offensive in any way.

The common denominator between all good presenters is enthusiasm. Without enthusiasm a good presenter wouldn't be a good presenter. An audience simply can't be excited if the person giving the presentation isn't excited. A good presenter will also spend a lot of time preparing their presentations, while the bad ones will often times improvise on the spot and have uninteresting or unresearched information. With enthusiasm and a great message an even more powerful attribute is formed and this attribute is presence. All good presenters have to have presence; it's what lets you know they are there and what commands an audience. It's often said a speaker with a powerful presence can cause even the most modest of people to do things they would never think of otherwise.

The best of luck to all OGDC campers for the final presentation which will be taking place on 16th May 2008. See you there!

Pilihan FM with Conia K

2008-05-11T13:43:00.005+08:00

A while ago I just called in Conia K of Pilihan FM to win some surprise gift. I called in not actually to win the prize but wanted to greet my Mum a Happy Mother's Day. But anyway, Conia did ask me a few questions before I was put on hold. This was what I remembered:

Conia: Hello..who's on the line?

Me: Hi Conia. This is Vance on the line. V to the A to the N to the C to the E.

Conia: Hi Vance. What's the tagline?

Me: Shift Kasih Sayang (i don't actually know if its the correct spelling..its just a tagline anyway)

Conia: O'ryte..what was the best thing that you've done for your mum?

Me: Hehe..giving a greeting to her on air..Happy Mother's Day to my mum..

Conia: Other than that, is there anything else that you've done for your mum. Like cooking for her..

Me: Yea..I do cook for her sometimes

Conia: How about house chores and houseworks?

Me: Well, actually I do clean the house once I am back home.

Conia: Great..I think doing the chores for your mum is the best thing you've done for her. Okay Vance, you hold on the line okay.

Vance: Sure..thanks Conia..

Thank you very much Conia for the prize and I'll pick it as soon as possible somewhere next week. Thanks also to Pilihan FM and the contributor.

Happy Mother's Day from VanceTan

2008-05-11T09:35:00.003+08:00

Mother's Day is a day honoring mothers, celebrated on various days in many places around the world. Mother's Day is celebrated all over the world to honor our Mothers, although the dates and months of Mother's Day differ from country to country.

Mother's day is the occasion to pay rich tributes to one of those persons who have had a great impact on our lives, a person whose love and care knows no boundaries, a person who does everything to keep her children happy an joyous. In 2008, Mother's Day is celebrated in the second week of May.

It is your mother who brings you to see the light of this world. It is she who looks after the helpless you and serves you with all her heart and does everything to make your life comfortable. Just for a day, at least, we shall stop taking our mothers for granted.

If you start wondering about the reasons you need to treat your mother, you would end up with nothing less than a zillion reasons. Let's just remember the most important reasons for which we need to be grateful to our mom and that would be enough to arrange a lavish treat for her on the special occasion of Mother's Day.
Since your childhood, you have watched your mom washing and ironing your clothes, keeping your school uniform sparkling and spotless, and your jumpers without a single crease.

You have been lucky enough to be picked and dropped to and from your school every single day right form your first day at school. Whenever you had a fight and for the slightest reason or if you needed a reason to cry on someone's shoulders, your mom was the one giving you the comfort and patiently listening to all your heartburns and grumbling.

Your mother is always there for you through every thick-and-thin of your life. She is the person you can depend upon to stand by you anytime you need her. To all mothers, Happy Mothers Day 2008 on 11th May 2008 corresponding to 5 Jamadilawal 1429H.

An inconvenient truth

2008-05-08T21:01:00.007+08:00

A MUST-SEE MOVIE!

If that sounds like a recipe for serious gloom and doom - think again. From director Davis Guggenheim comes the Sundance Film Festival hit, AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH, which offers a passionate and inspirational look at one man's fervent crusade to halt global warming's deadly progress in its tracks by exposing the myths and misconceptions that surround it. That man is former Vice President Al Gore, who, in the wake of defeat in the 2000 election, re-set the course of his life to focus on a last-ditch, all-out effort to help save the planet from irrevocable change. In this eye-opening and poignant portrait of Gore and his "traveling global warming show," Gore also proves himself to be one of the most misunderstood characters in modern American public life. Here he is seen as never before in the media - funny, engaging, open and downright on fire about getting the surprisingly stirring truth about what he calls our "planetary emergency" out to ordinary citizens before it's too late.

Being a vegetarian could reduce global warming

2008-05-08T15:11:00.006+08:00

There are so many good reasons for being a vegetarian in terms of health and the environment. When you are a vegetarian, you can significantly improve your health,
dramatically reduce your environmental footprint and greatly lessen the suffering of animals.

Well, the decision about whether to become a vegetarian is a matter of personal choice. But if more people really knew how bad meat is, more people would make the choice to go meatless. Below are some details about the main reasons people go vegetarian.

Why going meatless saves the planet?
If you're like most people, going vegetarian is the single most powerful action you can take to save energy and reduce pollution. That's because meat production requires staggering amounts of land, water, and energy.

Livestock production requires enormous amounts of energy. We put far more energy into animals per unit of food than we do for any plant crop. The main reason is that cattle consume 16 times more grain than they produce as meat, so right there we have 16 times as much energy just to grow those crops, just so we can waste them on livestock.

But the energy use doesn't end there. The livestock themselves take energy to process beyond the energy that goes into their feed. And then there's refrigeration, including during transport, necessary for meat but not for grains and beans. And then there's the transportation itself.

Wasting energy isn't problematic just because there's less and less of it to go around. In actual fact, we've already used more than half the oil that exists on the planet. It's also a problem because burning fossil fuels contributes to global warming.

Livestock are responsible for 18 per cent of the greenhouse gases that cause global warming, more than cars, planes and all other forms of transport put together.
Burning fuel to produce fertiliser to grow feed, to produce meat and to transport it (and clearing vegetation for grazing) produces 9 per cent of all emissions of carbon dioxide, the most common greenhouse gas. Moreover, their wind and manure emit more than one third of emissions of methane, which warms the world 20 times faster than carbon dioxide.

Mobile phones: A friend or an enemy!

2008-05-07T15:12:00.005+08:00

A few days ago, a person was recharging his cell phone at home.

Just at that time a call came in and he answered it with the instrument still connected to the outlet.

After a few seconds electricity flowed into the cell phone unrestrained and the young man was thrown to the ground with a heavy thud.

His parents rushed to the room only to find him unconscious, with a weak heartbeat and burnt fingers.

He was rushed to the nearby hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Cell phones are a very useful modern invention.

However, we must be aware that it can also be an instrument of death.

Never use the cell phone while it is hooked to the electrical outlet!

Sent by: Concerned VanceTan Blog reader

Do braces hurt?

2008-05-05T22:41:00.004+08:00

Well, it only hurts for the first 3 days. You may have an uneasy sensation. But, while they put on the little square brackets they don't hurt. The dentists won't put the wires until a week or so. After they put the wires in, it may feel a little bit tight and uncomfortable. Although it was hard to eat anything, except soup, for a couple of days, you will still survive. After the first week, there is no pain at all.

10 Secrets to Success

2008-05-03T21:56:00.002+08:00

1. How You Think is Everything: Always be positive. Think Success, not Failure. Beware of a negative environment.

2. Decide upon Your True Dreams and Goals: Write down your specific goals and develop a plan to reach them.

3. Take Action. Goals are nothing without action.

4. Never Stop Learning: Go back to school or read books. Get training & acquire skills.

5. Be Persistent and Work Hard: Success is a marathon, not a sprint. Never give up.

6. Learn to Analyze Details: Get all the facts, all the input. Learn from your mistakes.

7. Focus Your Time And Money: Don’t let other people or things distract you.

8. Don’t Be Afraid To Innovate: Be different. Following the herd is a sure way to mediocrity.

9. Deal And Communicate With People Effectively: No person is an island. Learn to understand and motivate others.

10. Be Honest And Dependable: Take responsibility, otherwise numbers 1 – 9 won’t matter.

Major Arctic sea ice melt is expected this summer

2008-04-29T15:56:00.003+08:00

The Arctic will remain on thinning ice, and climate warming is expected to begin affecting the Antarctic also, scientists said Friday.

"The long-term prognosis is not very optimistic," atmospheric scientist Jennifer Francis of Rutgers University said at a briefing.

Last summer sea ice in the North shrank to a record low, a change many attribute to global warming.

But while solar radiation and amounts of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are similar at the poles, to date the regions have responded differently, with little change in the South, explained oceanographer James Overland of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

What researchers have concluded was happening, was that in the North, global warming and natural variability of climate were reinforcing one another, sending the Arctic into a new state with much less sea ice than in the past.

"And there is very little chance for the climate to return to the conditions of 20 years ago," he added.

On the other hand, Overland explained, the ozone hole in the Antarctic masked conditions there, keeping temperatures low in most of the continent other than the peninsula reaching toward South America.

"So there is a scientific reason for why we're not seeing large changes in the Antarctic like we're seeing in the Arctic," he said.

But, Overland added, as the ozone hole recovers in coming years, global warming will begin to affect the South Pole also.

The briefing covered data being reported in a paper scheduled for publication next week in Eos, a journal of the American Geophysical Union.

Overland said he used to be among those skeptical about the effects of global climate change. The new findings, which he termed "startling," were developed at a recent workshop, he said.

There is agreement between weather observations, the output of computer climate models and scientific expectations for what should happen, added Francis.

All the evidence points toward human-made changes at both poles, she said, a conclusion that "further depletes the arsenals of those who insist that human-caused climate change is nothing to worry about."

Climatologist Gareth Marshall of the British Antarctic Survey said that while the term global warming is widely used, things are more complicated at the regional level.

In the Antarctic, he explained, climate change strengthened winds blowing around the continent, helping trap colder air. But that will decrease in the future, allowing warmer conditions to begin, he said.

And, Marshall added, all studies now show that human activities are the drivers of climate change in the Antarctic.

Asked if this summer will match last year's record low sea ice in the North, Overland that is likely.

"The tea leaves point to a minimal amount of sea ice next September, that would be the same as we had last summer, 40 percent loss compared to 20 years ago," he said. Overland added that the winter freeze got a late start last fall.

Francis added: "Over this entire fall, winter and right up 'till today the ice concentration, the amount of ice that's floating around on the Arctic, has been below normal every single day."

"All arrows are pointing towards, certainly not a recovery, something like we had last summer and possibly worse," she said.

10 simple steps to stop global warming

2008-04-28T15:44:00.001+08:00

1.Drive Smart!
A well-tuned car with properly inflated tires burns less gasoline—cutting pollution and saving you money at the pump. If you have two cars, drive the one with better gas mileage whenever possible. Better yet, skip the drive and take public transit, walk, or bicycle when you can.

2.Buy Local and Organic
Did you know the average American meal travels more than 1,500 miles from the farm to your plate? Think of all the energy wasted and pollution added to the atmosphere - not to mention all the pesticides and chemicals used to grow most produce! So go to your local organic farmer to get your fruits and veggies.

3.Support clean, renewable energy.
Renewable energy solutions, such as wind and solar power, can reduce our reliance on coal-burning power plants, the largest source of global warming pollution in the United States. Call your local utility and sign up for renewable energy. If they don't offer it, ask them why not?

4.Also, support a national renewable electricity standard (RES). The Energy Bill signed in 2007 lacked key components that address our energy security and global warming emissions: a renewable electricity standard of 15% by 2020 and a tax package that will provide investment incentives for clean energy alternatives. Use our action center to urge your members of congress to support the renewable electricity standard and tax package!

5.Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
Especially those that burn the longest each day. Compact fluorescents produce the same amount of light as normal bulbs, but use about a quarter of the electricity and last ten times as long. Each switch you make helps clean the air today, curb global warming, and save you money on your electricity bill.

6.Saving energy at home is good for the environment and for your wallet.
Start with caulking and weather-stripping on doorways and windows. Then adjust your thermostat and start saving. For each degree you lower your thermostat in the winter, you can cut your energy bills by 3 percent. Finally, ask your utility company to do a free energy audit of your home to show you how to save even more money.

7.Become a smart water consumer.
Install low-flow showerheads and faucets and you'll use half the water without decreasing performance. Then turn your hot water heater down to 120°F and see hot-water costs go down by as much as 50 percent.

8.Buy energy-efficient electronics and appliances.
Replacing an old refrigerator or an air conditioner with an energy-efficient model will save you money on your electricity bill and cut global warming pollution. Look for the Energy Star label on new appliances or visit their website at www.energystar.gov to find the most energy-efficient products.

9.Plant a Tree, protect a forest.
Protecting forests is a big step on the road to curbing global warming. Trees "breathe in" carbon dioxide, but slash-and-burn farming practices, intensive livestock production, and logging have destroyed 90 percent of the native forests in the United States. And you can take action in your own backyard — planting shade trees around your house will absorb CO2, and slash your summer air-conditioning bills.

10.Reduce! Reuse! Recycle!
Producing new paper, glass, and metal products from recycled materials saves 70 to 90percent of the energy and pollution, including CO2, that would result if the product came from virgin materials. Recycling a stack of newspapers only 4 feet high will save a good-sized tree. Please...buy recycled products!

Do you realize how fortunate you are?

2008-04-26T21:03:00.003+08:00

If you are an average teenager, there will definitely be times when you will feel that the whole world seems to be against you. Nobody seems to understand you! Yet, this is very normal; you are growing to be an adult, your body is changing, you don't know what's going to happen next, and your parents become more protective: "You must be home by 10.00PM!!" You seem to lost your freedom. People expect you to behave like a grown-up, but you're still a kid inside. You'd like to play with kids but they say you're too old. And the adults say, "You're too young.." Your're absolutely confused.

On top of all these, you have homeworks, tests, exams, tuition classes, extra classes, golf, piano lessons...Oh well, its so tough to be teenagers but think about this...

Now, just have a look at what kids and teenagers in other less fortunate parts of the world go through their daily life and we'll bet, that no matter what problems you are facing right now, these problems are nothing compared to their problems!

There's an old Chinese Saying: "Those who are fortunate usually do not realise just how fortunate they are"

Your parents love you..they really do..otherwise they won't nag you and they won't bother to scold you. Do you think they will nag or scold someone they don't care about? You'll understand how they feel when you eventually have children of your own.

Instead of asking, "What can you do for me?", ask instead "What else can I do for you?" Say this to everybody if you can.

And, to thank your parents and your country is really very simple. Just be good to yourself, study hard, help others, think of others more often, be considerate, don't smoke, eat the right food, don't get sick, stay away from drugs and narcotics, obey the laws of our country..that's how simple it is to become a good son and daughter and to become a citizen Brunei Darussalam will be very proud of.

How to boost up your brain?

2008-04-25T22:34:00.001+08:00

Your brain is a thinking organ that learns and grows by interacting with the world through perception and action. Mental stimulation improves brain function and actually protects against cognitive decline, as does physical exercise.

The human brain is able to continually adapt and rewire itself. Even in old age, it can grow new neurons. Severe mental decline is usually caused by disease, whereas most age-related losses in memory or motor skills simply result from inactivity and a lack of mental exercise and stimulation. In other words, use it or lose it.

It is important to challenge your brain to learn new and novel tasks, especially processes that you've never done before. Examples include square-dancing, chess, tai chi, yoga, or sculpture. Working with modeling clay or playdough is an especially good way to grow new connections. It helps develop agility and hand-brain coordination, (like controlling the computer mouse with your opposite hand).

Budak gauk cikgu

2008-04-24T22:01:00.008+08:00

Al-Kisah, ada budak laki-laki ani namanya Ben..sal mamanya suka Ben Ten konon. Iatah Si Ben ani udah sampai umur kan ke sekolah. Kira dalam 4 tahun lah...tua sudah tu yo. Terpaksa mamanya ani menghantar ia ke sekolah. Beratus-ratus ringgit kali ah yurannya sal kan dapatkan "best education" tuk anaknya yang cute atu.

Masa sampai di sekolah, anaknya atu dipimpin lagi masuk ke dalam kelas. Maklumlah, pimpinlah anak awda, anda mampu mengubahnya. Kira si mama ani takut anaknya ditimpa kemalangan cematu lah. Lapas atu, si Ben cium pipi mamanya yang merah cam bunga ros atu sebalum mamanya ke opis.

Satu jam telah berlalu ... Tik Tok Tik Tok...

Cikgu: Okie dokie..hari ani cikgu kan mengajar pasal matematik. Ben, apa 1 + 1?

Ben: (ketawa) dua cikgu...

Cikgu: 2 + 2 apa?

Ben: (ketawa lagi) empat

Lapas skulah...

Mama: Cemana tah skulah tadi Ben?

Ben: Hehe ma...Cikgu atu kan.. mun 1 + 1 pun ia inda tau..

Mama: Grrrrr.....

Top 10 Hits on World Music Charts

2008-04-24T21:35:00.005+08:00

First Place: "4 Minutes to Save the World" by Madonna Feat. Justin Timberlake

2 - "Bleeding Love" by Leona Lewis
3 - "Touch My Body" by Mariah Carey
4 - "Low" by Flo Rida Feat. T-pain
5 - "Love In This Club" by Usher Feat. Young Jeezy
6 - "Stop And Stare" by Onerepublic
7 - "Don't Stop The Music" by Rihanna
8 - "No Air" by Jordin Sparks & Chris Brown
9 - "Mercy" by Duffy
10. -"With You" by Chris Brown

PJN Network

2008-04-23T23:21:00.004+08:00

Be a member of PJN Network now and post forums for us. Induldge yourself in a whole lot of great fun while win great prizes on PJN Shows. Visit PJN Network at http://www.pjnnetwork.ning.com/ or simply click Here. We've only got 5 members at the moment. So, hurry up and sign up now! Don't forget to spread the word and add the PJN Network Badge to your blog.

How to prevent gossip?

2008-04-20T21:33:00.006+08:00

Gossip prevention rests with two people - the person speaking it, and the person listening to it. The best way to stop gossip is to:

1. Demonstrate loyalty and friendship by refusing to listen to or spread it—simply do not permit insinuations or negative discussion at all.

2. Should someone begin to repeat a story about someone else, politely say that you would prefer to talk about that person when they is are present.

3. If not, you have to listen politely (without any comment), and change the subject as soon as possible — do not repeat the information to anyone else.

4. If someone confides personal information to you, keep it to yourself.

5. Sometimes rumors get started despite the best prevention methods. So, the very last best way to defuse gossip is to ignore it.

6. If gossip is directed at you, behave as if the rumors are not affecting you; otherwise, you may be perceived as weak.

7. Instead of lashing out defensively, continue with your life and disregard the talk—ultimately your deeds and actions will overcome any gossip—your behavior, what you do (and don't do) will speak for itself. Actions are always stronger than words.

8. Decide whether using confrontation make them go away or cause you to waste time answering accusations. If you decide to face the accusations, you need to ascertain if you should confront a group or just the source.

As upset as it can be, don't let gossip waste your time and energy when you need to be focusing on more important issues concerning your life. The best way to handle gossip after all is to avoid it as much as you can and then ignore the rest.

Richest Women in the world

2008-04-18T12:45:00.011+08:00

Alice L. Walton (born October 7, 1949) is the daughter of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton and Helen Walton. She and her mother each have an estimated net worth of about $18 billion and are the richest women in the world.

She is a graduate of Trinity University and lives in Mineral Wells, Texas on The Rocking W Ranch.

She was the 20th largest individual contributor to 527 committees in the U.S. presidential election, 2004, donating 2.6 million dollars (US) to the right-wing Progress for America group.

Ms. Walton was also convicted of drunk driving in January 1998. When pulled over, she reportedly asked the police "Do you know who I am?"

Helen Robson Kemper Walton (b. [Dec.3,1919] in Claremore, Oklahoma) is the widow of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton. She is one of the wealthiest persons in the world with an estimated net worth of $18 billion.

Robson was the valedictorian of her high school class and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma at Norman with a degree in business. She was the daughter of L.S. Robson, a prosperous banker and rancher. She and Sam were married February 14, 1943.

Sam Walton left his ownership in Wal-Mart to his wife and their children: S. Robson Walton (Rob), John T. Walton (d.2005), Jim Walton, and Alice Walton. Rob Walton chairs the board of directors of Wal-Mart, on which John served until his death. The others are not directly involved in the company except through their voting power as shareholders. The Walton family holds 4 spots in the top 15 richest people in the United States.

Celebrate ICT with a smile

2008-04-16T13:59:00.004+08:00

"Connecting people with Special Needs: ICT Opportunities for All" is the theme for Celebrate ICT with a smile. Don't miss this opportunity for your to win cash. 13 $100 out for grabs. All you have to do is to send in your photos to smiles2008@aiti.gov.bn or log on to http://www.celebrateictwithasmile.com.bn/. To view my submitted photos, please click here.

4th Edition of PJN Chill Out Time

2008-04-15T13:20:00.005+08:00

Another thrilling show of PJN Chill Out Time and now we've reached the 4th Edition of the show conducted since the 2nd Term.

Well, the following were the tracks played today:

1. Sunshine in the rain by BWO
2. S.O.S by the Jonas Brothers
3. Bye-bye Beautiful by NightWish
4. Lips of An Angel by Hinder
5. Boys of rock and roll by Alvin and the Chipmunks
6. Happy Birthday by Alvin and the Chipmunks
7. Happy Birthday by Stevie Wonders

Not forgetting, Happy 16th Birthday to Joey today, 15/4/2008

3rd Edition of PJN Chill Out Time

2008-04-14T17:35:00.004+08:00

3rd Edition of PJN Chill Out Time - Today's show was not much due to insufficient time. However, we did have a few items on the playlist as follows:

1. Dia by Brunei Artiste
2. Dancing Queen by ABBA
3. No Air by Jordin Sparks featuring Chris Brown
4. Take You There by Sean Kingston
5. Steam by East 17
6. With You by Chris Brown

My thanks to Didie from 4sc1 for the track and congratulations to Ibnu Hafiz from 5sc2 for winning yourself the Recharge Card of your choice.

Tomorrow's show would be a greater show featuring me myself, Joanna and Joyce. Don't miss out tomorrow's show as we give away a whole lot of prizes. Be prepared to get suprises that you never expect. A little hint: Its someone's b'day tommorrow.

Facts - 10+1 only

2008-04-14T17:25:00.004+08:00

Important Facts that you want to know:

1. Answer the phone by LEFT ear.
2. Do not drink coffee TWICE a day.
3. Do not take pills with COOL water.
4. Do not have HUGE meals after 5pm.
5. Reduce the amount of OILY food you consume.
6. Drink more WATER in the morning, less at night.
7. Keep your distance from hand phone CHARGERS.
8. Do not use headphones/earphone for LONG period of time.
9. Best sleeping time is from 10pm at night to 6am in the morning.
10. Do not lie down immediately after taking medicine before sleeping.

Lastly, when battery is down to the LAST grid/bar, do not answer the phone as the radia tion is 1000 times.

2nd Edition of PJN Chill Out Time

2008-04-13T10:41:00.005+08:00

Another great show on PJN Chill Out Time. This is the second edition of PJN Chill Out Time report. On the tracklist were:

1. Bila April - Fazley
2. Sayang-Sayang - Aliff Aziz
3. Touch My Body - Mariah Carey
4. 4 Minutes to Save the World - Madonna
5. Steam - East 17
6. Release - Justin Timberlake featuring Timbaland

Thank you to all of you who send in your buzzes. Congratulations also to Aimey Wafiy for winning youself that Recharge Card of your choice.

Don't forget to join PJN Network to win great prizes on the show.

1st Edition of PJN Chill Out Time

2008-04-11T13:33:00.004+08:00

It was a great start-off of my show although some said that the song was way too loud. Anyway, I will try to minimise the volume by the 2nd Edition. I played two songs, Steam by East 17 and Release by Justin Timberlake. It was only a ten-minutes show because I had to stop 5 minutes before every break time ends (to pack all those stuffs and prizes).

Don't forget to join PJN Network and win great prizes on PJN Chill Out Time 2nd Edition. The first 50 PJNs will stand a chance to win a Top-Up card of your choice.

PJN trip to Maths Carnival

2008-04-11T06:58:00.017+08:00

Me & ZulF

Liyana looking at camera..the rest were busy

The Guys

Si Nur

The Lawaas

Exhibitor from SM SUFRI BOLKIAH

Saiful still trying to answer while DJ Casper looks on

My pictures during PJN Sports Day ... Taken from Ikh

2008-04-07T22:41:00.006+08:00

Left to right: Malek, Syafiq, Esah, Safwan, Me

Cikgu Ayob wearing blue shirt beside me..

Thanks Ikhwan for the SnapShots. Full posts and more pictures in his blog. Check it out!

Latest Game at Miniclip + Top 10 Games

2008-04-06T01:10:00.016+08:00

Vance Tan Blog is here to bring you the latest games in Miniclip, which is KicKBoxing. Pick your fighter and battle all the way to the top! Click here to play.

Other top 10 games:
1.Club Penguin

2.Canyon Defense
3.Movie Munchies

4.Zombomatic
5.Kickboxing

6.Street Fight
7.Dirk Valentine

8.Moonshadow
9.Trials 2

10.Puzzle Pirates

Put a smile on your face

2008-04-06T00:45:00.006+08:00

How many actors does it take to change a light bulb?
- One, they don't like to share the spotlight

How do you make a fruit punch?
- Give it boxing lessons

How do you catch a squirrel?
-Climb up a tree and act like a nut

Why do Egyptians children get confused about their parents?
- Because daddies become mummies when they die

Why do birds fly south for the winter?
- Because they are too lazy to walk

Sports day in PJN

2008-04-06T00:23:00.006+08:00

5th April 2008 - PJN, Mumong celebrated her 10th Annual Sports Day 2008. The event started at around 7.30-8.00 a.m. The guest of honour of the event was the head of OGDC, Yang Mulia Awg Iskandar bin Haji Alias.

A few events such as the track and field event and the football match were held for the first few hours before the arrival of the invited school participants. Panglima managed to grab some of the medals during the event.

After the invited school particpants arrived, the 'Tarik Kalat' event went on for the next quarter of the day followed by the 4X100 relay (1st and 2nd rounds). The Winner of the 4X100 relay were Chung Hua Middle School and PJN.

This year's overall winner was Perkasa.
p/s: still waiting for Ikhwan's shots of me..hehe

How to kil time while waiting in airport?

2008-04-05T23:58:00.004+08:00

If you have ever waited in an airport for your flight to arrive you know just how nerve racking it can be. After all, nobody likes to sit in a terminal for hours on end waiting for their plane to arrive. But with that being said, there are many ways that you can kill time while waiting in an airport. Three of the best ways are listed below.

1. For many people, one of the best ways to kill time is to go shopping. In today's day and age, most major airports have plenty of shopping destinations for any type of buyer. No matter if you want to purchase clothes, books, or anything else, you should be able to find several stores that suit your needs. Just remember, anything you buy will have to go on the plane with you.

2. In addition to the many stores, you will also notice that there is plenty of food to be had in most airports. You can usually find everything from fast food to sit down restaurants. So based on how much time you have, and of course how hungry you are, you should be able to kill some time by eating. If you tend to get sick to the stomach when flying, consider eating light. Even though the food may taste good going down, you will regret it when the plane takes off.

3. What better way is there to kill time in an airport than by people watching? This will allow you to sit in your seat and relax, while also having a great time watching everybody else. While this may sound a bit silly, people watching can be tons of fun. There is a lot that you can learn about human nature by simply sitting back and watching thousands of people walk by. When you keep your eyes open, the stuff that you will see will truly amaze you.

These are three of the best ways to kill time while waiting for your flight to arrive. Of course, you can do pretty much anything that you want. The key is to know how much time you have before you need to board, and then find the time killing activity that best suits your needs. Who knows, you may have enough time to shop, eat, and then relax with some people watching. No matter what you do, make sure that you do not get so caught up that you miss your flight. Airports have a lot to offer, but this does not mean that you want to stay there longer than you have to!

Featuring Shakri Ayen

2008-04-05T22:44:00.008+08:00

This was sent to me yesterday so I decided to feature this article then..

Take a look at his new Website. The site is great for sharing pictures, videos, music and blogs. It is also a great way to meet new people and stay in touch with your friends. Join PerfSpot.com now so that you can keep in touch with him.

Gud luck Shakri..heheh..jngan marah yea..

Ular kah talur?

2008-03-30T00:32:00.005+08:00

Seorang bini-bini lawa ani, namanya Suzie, melawat arah Cafe Juanda..pasal ia kena bagi baucer makan free masa ia ikut kuiz arah radio.

Si Suzie ani maklumlah..baru datang ke Brunei and menetap for setahun ganya. Tapi kawannya..ish..ish..ish..ramainya. Si Suzie ani pandai berdialek macam-macam..English, Cina, Melayu, India, Portugese, Spanish, French and Singlish pun buleh tahan jualah.

Datang tah ia waiter cafe atu yang berpakian hitam and putih..kira unifomnya lah..and bertanya..

Waiter: Hi Miss, mau order apa? Kami ada murtabak.., rojak.., and macam-macam

Suzie: Jangan kau capi-capi..mana ada makanan namanya macam-macam ani?

Waiter: Hehe..

Suzie: Bagi aku roti ular satu and campur kuah kari itik okey..

Waiter atu bangang mendangar si Suzie anieh..and mengkonfom lagi..

Waiter: Maaf ..sini kami nada jual roti ular

Suzie: Tadi ko cakap macam-macam ada..jangan ko macam-macam ui..karang mun ku panggil bossmu habis kau ani

Waiter: Bah..bah...

*Arah kitchen, cook pun tekajut..tapi due to demand..diambilnya ular dari belakang cafe and dimasaknya

Sementara atu, Si Suzie mencek-cek menu kan mengorder lagi minuman..Terkajut ia tarus

Suzie: Waiter..waiter...

Waiter: Ya..coming..sini pesanannya..

Suzie: Umm...bukan-bukan..aku kan mau roti telur..bukannya ular...sama wah bunyinya ani..!@#$%^&*

Gembo jadi emcee of the day?

2008-03-29T23:05:00.011+08:00

PJN, 31th March 2008 - Second term of the school year and students semangat and iski kan meliat ahem..ahem..and have lots of fun arah skewl.

The Emcee of the day Gembo (bukan nama sebenar) atu pasang-pasang tah the microphone and started the jingle macam orang gila teriak masa pagi sal cigu-cigu semua nada...ke meeting pagi-pagi as usual..

"Welcome to the Monday's edition of Morning Assembly right here on PJN. Today is the 31st March 2008 corresponding to 23 of Rabiulawal 1429H. We'll start today's assembly..bla..bla..bla"

Jam yang merah arah luar E.C.A room atu pun kan jatuh usulnya. Udah suaranya basar and dibasarkan lagi tah ia dengan microphone atu..aduyy..sakit telinga mendangar. Lupaku membawa ear-plug. Hehehee..

After 30 minutes ia menunggu:
Masih jua students yang kuat beribun atu balum lagi beratur. Si Gembo pun mikir menggaru-garu kepala macam orang inda cuci kepala. Dipikirnya cemana kan mendiamkan students yang bising macam pasar malam atu. Lupa ia cemana format assembly sal masa cuti berblogging and berdating ganya kerajanya.

Emcee: Bah..ku tau ya all semangat kan berjumpa-jumpa..masa ni assembly buii

Students: Hahahaaa.

Emcee: Bah, bah..okie..kita mulakan perkumpulan pagi dengan menyanyikan lagu kebangsaan. And then aku ada banyak announcement 10kilograms...so just bare with me lah..

After 1 jam berlalu..(dalam kelas)
Cigu: Kenapa nie? Blank jua kertasmu..apa ko buat masa holiday?

Gembo: Ermm..nada..hehe...aku ni banyak homework masa cuti..

Cigu: Banar? Then,surat cinta untuk siapa ni?

Gembo: Inda eyh..atu pantun untuk practice saja bah..

Cigu: You mau tau inda..sebanarnya inda papa..pasal cigu suka kamu ani jadi menantu cigu bah..spoting kau ani bah..pandai lagi ber-emcee..

*teng*teng*teng*

Happy 16th Birthday

2008-03-29T15:22:00.009+08:00

Happy 16th Birthday to Bro Veron on 30th March 2008 (Sunday), corresponding to 22nd of Rabiulawal 1429H.

"Happy Bestday to youh"

"Happy Birthday to you"

"Happy Birthday on 30 March"

"Happy Sixteenth Birthday"

Enjoy yourself yo! Be happy always!

My interview on Back to School...

2008-03-29T13:53:00.007+08:00

31st March 2008 will be the day to return back to school. Are you ready for school?

[All names below are nicknames only]
Ana : Ermm...aku alum siap B.M ku..

Fiq : Nope, i haven't finish my homework yet

Gzinc: Yeah..math homework left

Peng: I'm excited to meet my friends and teachers

Vance (me): Haha..of course!

*Credits to all for allowing me to post your comments. Jangan marah...peace everyone..*

How to release pressure?

2008-03-29T12:32:00.007+08:00

This was as suggested by one of my readers. This is a solution to my post here. If you are pressured, how do you release them? Good idea isn't it?

Here are 8 tips to release pressure:
1. Don’t listen too much to others,or worry about what they might think, or getting their validation. If you use too much time and energy to focus on these three things you may be heading down a pretty harmful road. And the thing is, most people aren´t thinking about you, what you do and your problems as much as you may fear anyway. They are busy with being focused on their own life and challenges.

2. Forget about perfectionism
Perfectionism is pretty pointless. It´s just you putting unnecessary pressure on yourself and thereby reducing your ability to do excellent work. Take a look at the next point to find a better replacement for perfectionism.

3. Focus on the process, not on the outcome.
Detaching from the possible outcomes and just keeping your focus on the work you are doing makes it easier to both live and live up to your potential by reducing many of your inner, mental obstacles such as performance anxiety and other worries.

4. Be OK with mistakes and failure.
This one ties in to the two previous tips. If you allow yourself to redefine mistakes you´ll be less prone to get yourself stuck in perfectionism.

5. Just do it!
If you often get stuck in procrastination and get little done the pressure can start to build up. “Just doing it” is a great way to get out of an overthinking or procrastinating state and just get going with what you want to do.

6. Cut down on busywork and unimportant stuff.
Feeling like you just have too much to do and too little time for the most important things? Then you probably need to do some decluttering in your life. Eliminate some of the less important stuff.

7. Don’t take things too seriously.
I´m not saying that you shouldn´t do a good job. Or that you should avoid responsibility. But having the attitude that the sky will fall down if something goes wrong is most often inaccurate outside of your own head.

8. Take 30 belly breaths.
This is more of a temporary solution compared to the ones above. But it’s also an immediate one. If you are feeling pressured and stressed out right now, you can use a few dozen belly breaths or so to relieve some of that for a while. Here´s what you do:

- Sit in a relaxing position with your legs apart.
- Put your hands on your stomach. Using your stomach breathe in slowly through your nose. If you are doing it right your stomach will expand and you´ll feel it with your hands.
- Breathe out slowly through your nose and do it with some force so you feel your stomach pull slightly inwards towards your spine.
- Breathe in and out 30 times. Take slow and deep breaths.
- After you have taken 30 breaths and focused on counting them you should not only feel more relaxed and centered. Your body will also be able to continue breathing in this manner without you focusing on it. And that´s it. Continue with your normal day.

Good luck! Credits to COJC for the suggestions.

Scare over "coated snacks"!

2008-03-29T12:21:00.005+08:00

#Please click to enlarge and read.

How to dress for an interview?

2008-03-29T07:47:00.009+08:00

This might be useful for you out there who are going for an interview:

First impressions are important in the job interview. Research has shown that the first 100 seconds are crucial in determining the interviewer's perception of the candidate's suitability for the position. What you wear to the job interview needs careful consideration. This can set you apart from the competition and make sure that your first impression is the right impression.

1. Dress a level above the position
What you wear to the interview should be one step above the normal clothing for that position. This shows respect for the interview process and indicates that you are making an extra effort.

2. Dress on the conservative side
Conservative is the safe option. Most employers approve of suits. An interviewer is more likely to accept that you can dress down if the environment is more casual than that you will dress more conservatively once you are employed.

3. Go for the understated look
Avoid overdoing anything including jewelry, make-up, shoes. Avoid flashy handbags and leave the cartoon tie at home.

4. Good grooming is crucial
You can wear the smartest suit but if your hair is messy and unwashed it loses all impact. Make sure your hair is clean and neatly styled. You don't want to spend the interview pushing hair off your face. This is distracting and irritating for the interviewer!

Clean, neatly manicured nails are also important for the interview. Make sure they send the right message about you.

5. Put your best foot forward
Closed-toed shoes for women are recommended. Backless shoes and open-toed shoes can look too casual. All shoes should be clean and polished. Run-down shoes ruin an outfit and give the impression that the candidate is careless and does not pay attention to detail. Tottering in on very high heels looks unprofessional, make sure you can walk comfortably and confidently in your shoes, especially if you are going on a workplace tour.

6. Lighten up the black suit
Black suits can look intimidating and too serious. If you prefer to wear a black suit, rather than shades of blue or gray, then relieve it with a light colored shirt. A lighter color next to your face softens the look.

7. Stay away from leather, denim and shiny fabrics
Leather or denim is not considered professional and can carry negative perceptions. Avoid wearing leather jackets or skirts. Never wear jeans or denim jackets. Shiny, satin-like fabrics are generally inappropriate for smart business wear.

8. Keep the interviewer focused on what you are saying
You want the interviewer to focus on what you are saying during the job interview. Avoid low necklines, flashy ties, lots of jewelry around your neck, big dangling earrings or over-the-top hairstyles. Too much perfume or cologne is also distracting.

9. Select and try out your interview clothes a couple of days before the interview
Make sure your outfit is clean, well pressed and not in any need of repair. Try it on to see if you feel comfortable in it. Keep in mind your commute to the interview, avoid wearing clothes that wrinkle easily if you have some distance to travel.

10. Keep it professional
This means no piercings, no chewing gum or candy and cover up any tattoos as much as possible. Baggy clothes look messy and tight clothes look as though you are drawing attention to your looks rather than your talents. Keep it simple and smart.

Dressing appropriately for the interview gives you the competitive edge from the word go. The interviewers would be amazed if you dress up properly and have a comfortable appearance. Smiling is also the key to success for an interview.

15 phrases successful people would never say

2008-03-27T23:02:00.009+08:00

1. This is probably a silly question
There is no silly question. Stop discrediting yourself. Don’t make emotional self-judgments for others. Don’t give people a chance to negate what would say next.

2. You probably don’t have time for this
If you want people to pay attention and make time for you, stop saying this! Just say what you want to say and let them decide if they have time for you or not.

3. I was just going to say that
You either did say it or you did not. This phrase gives absolutely no value or meaning to your communication.

4. I can’t…
If you are committed to something, you “can” do it. You may not know how to do it, but it doesn’t mean you can’t. If you don’t want to or don’t know how to do certain things, just say it. Stop saying you can’t. Have you ever heard people say: “Can I go to the bathroom?” What would you say?

5. I try…
Try means you don’t want to commit. Try means it is okay not to do it. You either do it or you don’t. Don’t try. Just do it.

6. But…
If you believe in something, don’t add the “but” at the end. The word “but” negates everything you say prior to the word, “but”. Instead, use the word “and”.

7. I hope…
Take responsibility to your own success. You know things will happen if you are 100% committed to do it. Don’t hope for things to happen. What your mind believe and conceive, it can achieve.

8. I don't understand
If you keep repeating the same phrase "I don't understand" , at the end of the day, you will never understand and never be a successful person.

9. It is not fair
Life is never fair. If you truly care about something, instead of blaming the world for it, accept responsibility for yourself and your results and go after what you want.

10. I don’t care
No one wants to waste time on someone who doesn’t care. Even if you truly don’t care, do not hurt other people’s feeling for whom they may care.

11. It doesn’t matter to me…
You may say this when:
-You are lazy and don’t want to think about it right now
-You really don’t care

Instead of saying “It doesn’t matter to me”, say this:
-I am flexible on this
-I respect your opinion on this.
-I am fine with your choice.

12. Whatever…
This is a catch-all response for kids which can mean many things. Every time you say “Whatever…” people might think you are saying:
-I don’t care
-This is end of the conversation.
-You can say whatever you want.

Remember that successful people don’t use the word whatever.

13. I could’ve thought of that
You either thought of it or you did not. And even if you did think of it, you either did something about it or you didn’t. The past is the past. Let’s move on and start thinking about the future. This phrase adds no value to your communication.

14. It’s not my fault
Successful people take 100% responsibility of everything that happens around them. Who cares who fault it is? What really matters is how you are going to solve the problem now?

15. I plan to...
If you say "I plan to", it shows that you do not have 100% confidence in yourself. Planning is just not good for a successful person. It is the product you get which makes you success. Instead, you should say "I'm going to.." which shows that you have the passion and desire to suceed.

Are you pressured? Try this out!

2008-03-27T22:55:00.005+08:00

Below are non-animated pictures. They are used to relate to your pressure level . If you see them moving , then that means you have pressure. The speed of the movement is the level of your pressure. The higher that moving speed, the higher pressure you have. Most chidren and old men only see static pictures and not moving. If you see the pattern moving in a slow motion, that means you have a bit pressure at this moment. Test yourself reqularly with these pictures to know yourself better. Sometimes, it is good to have an appropriate pressure to push us to do better, but too much pressure can push us to the end of the edge resulting in sickness.

Non-animated picture 1

Non-animated picture 2

Non-animated picture 3

So, are you pressured?

Latest updates on Top 10 Richest Men

2008-03-27T22:22:00.005+08:00

1) The American investor and philanthropist Warren Buffet is worth an estimated $62 billion, up $10 billion from a year ago thanks to surging prices of Berkshire Hathaway stock, according to Forbes magazine's annual ranking of the world's billionaires.

2) Mexican telecom tycoon Carlos Slim Helu was named the world's second richest man, with a net worth of around $60 billion, up $11 billion since last March.

3) Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, is now ranked as the world's third richest person. At $58 billion, his net worth is up $2 billion from a year ago.

4) Steel giant Lakshmi Mittal placed fourth with 45 billion dollars

5) Petrochemicals tycoon Mukesh Ambani placed fifth with 43 billion dollars

6) Anil Ambani at sixth position with 42 billion dollars

7) Ikea store chain owner Ingvar Kamprad was seventh at $31 billion

8) Property magnate K.P. Singh came in eighth on the list, with a fortune estimated at 30 billion dollars.

9) Aluminum giant Oleg Deripaska was ninth at $28 billion

10) Aldi store chain owner Karl Albrecht was 10th at $27 billion

Top Names in China

2008-03-27T22:21:00.009+08:00

Males
Wei (伟; Great)
Jianguo (建国; Build the Country)
Dong (东; East)
Ming (明; Light)
Tao (涛; Great Wave)
Zhuang (壮; Robust)

Females
Qing (Ching) (情; Sentiment)
Ying (英; Petal)
Ping (萍; Duckweed)
Ting (婷; Attractive)
Ling (玲; Tinkling of jade)
Jing (晶; Crystal)
Xue (雪; Snow, symbolizing purity)
Yuan (媛; Beauty)

Friendship Poems

2008-03-25T17:09:00.006+08:00

TRUE FRIENDSHIP
True friends are for life
Until the end
They're more than special
They're your bestest friends.

They're the ones you can go to
When you're in despair
The ones that'll help you
Even when you got gum in your hair!

They're the ones who'll laugh
And go laughing with you all through the night The ones who'll help you
Help you with all their might

To have a good friend
You have to be one
So be nice to one another
So you can be friends forever

FRIEND
A Friend is a Treasure
A friend is someone we turn to,
when our spirits need a lift.

A friend is someone we treasure,
for our friendship is a gift.
A friend is someone who fills our lives,
with beauty, joy and grace.

And make the world we live in,
a better and happier place.

A BEST FRIEND
A best friend is always there,
whether you need advice,
or a pep talk,
or even a shoulder to cry on.

A best friend listens with heart
and is always honest with you,
even though the truth may not be what you want to hear.

A best friendknows all your secrets,
understands your fears shares your dreams.

A best friendnever stops believing in you
even if you give upon yourself.
You are that kind of friend to me.
And no matter what happens,
you always will be.

Gorgeous gifts for people addicted to music

2008-03-21T08:04:00.008+08:00

Travel SpeakersThese foldaway Mini Travel Speakers are the bees knees in mobile sound.White Wood Effect More info...

Cordless HeadphonesSet yourself free from cable hell with these state of the art Sennheiser cordless headphones.
£49.95 More info...

iPod Alarm Clocks The alarm clock for the iPod generation - wake up to your song of the moment
£39.95

Instant Music Vinyl & Cassette Ripper Dust off your old cassette deck and polish up your record player, they have one final task b$efore they die.€39.95

iPod Party Speaker The iPod Party Speaker is the ultimate in mobile party systems
£149.00

Expensive Chocolates

2008-03-19T13:57:00.005+08:00

GRAB ONE OF THOSE NOW!!!

Chocopologie by Knipschildt
Cost: $2,600 per pound

*€2,173£1,491,Can$2,992,Aus$3,500,Rs114,816

Where: Norwalk, Conn.

Web site: http://www.knipschildt.com/

Knipschildt Chocolatier was founded in 1999 by Fritz Knipschildt, who got his culinary education as a chef in Denmark. The most-expensive chocolate he sells--a $250 dark chocolate truffle with a French black truffle inside--is available on a preorder-only basis. It's made of 70% Valrhona cacao, which is blended into a creamy ganache with truffle oil. The truffle is then hand-rolled with a dark truffle on the inside and dusted with cocoa powder.

Noka Vintages Collection
Cost: $854 per pound

€714£490Can$982Aus$1,149Rs37,712

Where: Dallas, Tex.

Web site: http://www.nokachocolate.com/

Noka chocolate is a compilation of the finest dark chocolates, sourced from select plantations in Venezuela, Trinidad, Cote d'Ivoire and Ecuador. The Vintages Collection of chocolate is 75% pure, single-origin cacao, with other ingredients that include cacao butter and sugar. Noka does not use any type of emulsifier, such as soy lecithin, in their chocolate-making process, nor do they add vanilla.

Delafee
Cost: $508 per pound

€425£291Can$584Aus$684Rs22,433

Where: Neuchatel, Switzerland

Web site: http://www.delafee.com/

For those who enjoy a sparkle in their chocolate, there's Delafee. The chocolate is prepared with fine cocoa beans and flakes of edible 24-karat gold applied by hand to each praline. Other ingredients include sugar, coconut oil, cocoa butter, milk powder and vanilla.

Lets go chocolate!

2008-03-19T13:39:00.003+08:00

FERRERO ROCHER:

Ferrero Rocher are spherical chocolate sweets made by Ferrero SpA. The sweets consist of a whole roasted hazelnut encased in a thin wafer shell filled with nutella/hazelnut cream and covered in milk chocolate and chopped hazelnuts. The sweets are individually packaged in a gold-coloured wrapper and are 73 1/3 calories apiece.
In Canada, Hong Kong and Malaysia, Ferrero Rocher is a popular gift during the holidays, especially during Chinese New Year. Chinese culture associates the gold of the packaging with good fortune and wealth.

KINDER BUENO:

Kinder Bueno is a chocolate bar from Ferrero. It is a hazelnut cream filled wafer with a chocolate covering. Kinder Bueno originally comes from Italy, where it was first released in 1990. It became available in Latin America (Brazil, Argentina and Mexico), Malaysia, Israel and Greece in the mid-1990s, in Germany and France starting in 1999, and has been common in Canada and the United Kingdom since 2004. A few stores in the United States carry it, but because of its rarity, it can be very expensive. Kinder Bueno is only sold in packs of two and six.

KIT-KAT:

A Kit Kat bar or KitKat bar is a confection which was first created by Rowntree Limited of York, England, and now produced worldwide by Nestlé, which acquired Rowntree in 1988, except in the USA where it is made under licence by Hershey's. Each bar consists of fingers composed of three layers of crème-filled wafer, covered in an outer layer of chocolate. Each finger can be snapped from the bar one at a time.

William Wordsworth & Samuel Taylor Coleridge: (Poetry - Best words in Best order)

2008-03-16T08:30:00.005+08:00

FEATURING BOOKS BY WILLIAM WORDSWORTH & SAMUEL TAYLOR COLERIDGE:

The Rime of the Ancient Marinerby Samuel Taylor Coleridge - 1857 - 51 pages
Full view - About this book - Add to my library - More editions

Lyrical Ballads: With Pastoral and Other Poems. In Two Volumes.by William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge - 1805
Full view - About this book - Add to my library - More editions

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Other Poemsby Samuel Taylor Coleridge - Poetry - 1992 - 80 pages
Great title poem plus "Kubla Khan," "Christabel," 20 other sonnets, lyrics, odes: "Sonnet: To a Friend who asked how I felt when the...
Limited preview - About this book - Add to my library - More editions

Selected Poemsby Samuel Taylor Coleridge - Poetry - 1996 - 357 pages
With this collection, renowned Colridge biographer, Richard Holmes, casts new light on the poets sensibilities and accomplishments.
Limited preview - About this book - Add to my library - More editions

The Complete Poemsby Samuel Taylor Coleridge - Poetry - 1997 - 656 pages
Faced with the challenge of putting together an authoritative collection, William Keach presents the final texts of all the poems published during Coleridge&...
Limited preview - About this book - Add to my library - More editions

Free SMS with IATAHNI PORTAL

2008-03-16T08:24:00.003+08:00

Free SMS now available at http://www.iatahni.com/. I've signed up..How about you? Check it out. After all, its your chance to send free SMS and you sure would not wanna miss.
BEGIN NOW !! IATAHNI Digital Photo Enlargement , Free SMS , Games and Wallpaper Download and E-books. All only at http://www.iatahni.com/.

How to detect if someone is lying to you?

2008-03-09T22:20:00.001+08:00

How do you know if someone is lying to you?

1. No eye contact.
- Generally, if someone is lying they will not look you in the eye, at least during a certain part of the conversation. Normally, people make eye contact for at least half of a conversation, so anything less than this could be suspicious. One caveat: there are some people who will take great pains to make eye contact with you even if they're lying, simply to make you think they're not.

2.Change in voice.
A change in the pitch of a person's tone, or a lot of stammering (umm, ah), or throat clearing could indicate a lie.

3.Unusual body language.
If a person taps their foot a lot, starts fidgeting their hands, raises their shoulders, turns away from you or brings their hand to their face to touch their chin or nose, etc. In other words, if they act nervous or uncomfortable, it could mean that they're telling a lie. They also blush or blink throughout most of the conversation.

4.Something that sounds fishy.
Making statements that contradict each other, are inconsistent or don't sound quite right are usually part of a lie.

5.Overly defensive.
Sometimes when a person is lying they will become extremely defensive, refusing to answer any questions and even accusing you of lying. This may mean they have something to hide.

6.Changes subject easily.
If someone is lying and you change the subject, chances are high that they'll go right along with it. A person telling the truth, however, will likely ask why you changed the subject and want to go back to it.

7.Humor or sarcasm.
A guilty person will often try to change the subject by using humour or sarcasm. For example, starting to make jokes and so on to try to change the topic or subject.

8.Ask the person if he/she is lying.
Consider asking directly if the person has lied to you. Many people feel bad getting caught up in lies, and find it a relief to finally be honest.

How do you maintain a good marriage?

2008-03-09T16:39:00.003+08:00

The easiest way to maintain a good marriage is to start out with a good marriage. The better your relationship is to begin with, the less effort you will have to put into it. Love of course is the base of a marriage, but there is more to it than that. You need to be friends with your spouse; meaning that you share everything and talk about everything together. The more you share with each other, the closer you will become. This closeness is something that is extraordinary when you come across it. This is the sign of a genuine and good marriage. There are many flaws of course still, no marriage is perfect, but the better it is, the closer you and your spouse will become.

If ever you feel that your marriage is not the same as it once was, or you are feeling like there are some marital problems arising. This is not something to panic about. The longer you are with a person the more likely that a marital problem will arise. These problems are fixable of course, you are not at a dead end, but you are at a new beginning. This is a great way to think about your marriage when problems arise. This is your opportunity to stop and look at your marriage in a way that you may not have done for a long time. Take this opportunity and rediscover your good and happy marriage, it is time to revive it.

Good marriages are few and far between today because people are not willing to put the effort in to maintain their relationship. When you love and care about someone, you take the time to create a relationship that will last till the rest of your days. This marriage will be able to survive any marital problem that comes along. Marriage is a great way to learn from each other and share with each other. A good marriage is simply based on a love, friendship and communication. With these three factors, you can handle anything that comes your way.

Lone Ranger and Tonto

2008-03-02T19:18:00.005+08:00

The Lone Ranger and Tonto went camping in the desert. After they got their tent all set up, both men fell sound asleep.

Some hours later, Tonto woke the Lone Ranger and said, "Kemo Sabe, look towards sky, what do you see? "

"The Lone Ranger replies, " I see millions of stars ."

"What does that tell you?" asked Tonto.

The Lone Ranger ponders for a minute then says, " Astronomically speaking, it tells me there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically , it tells me that Saturn is in Leo. Time wise , it appears to be approximately a quarter past three in the morning. Theologically , the Lord is all-powerful and we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically , it seems we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. What does it tell you, Tonto? "

"You worse than anything. It means someone stole the tent!!!"

Frost Bites

2008-03-02T15:32:00.004+08:00

Seriously this was sent by somebody who forgot to leave his/her name..this is both fun and funny..enjoy:

New Dentyne..Small but Powerful Gum. Wanna try some? Heheee...

Cold water after meal?

2008-02-29T11:28:00.003+08:00

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you.

It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this "sludge" reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks - You should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line.

You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. 60% of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive.

A cardiologist says if everyone who reads this message sends it to 10 people, you can be sure that we'll save at least one life. Read this & Send the link to a friend. It could save a life. So, please be a true friend and send this article to all your friends you care about.

Its never too late....Pass this message to your love ones...

Hi-Techs

2008-02-22T12:06:00.004+08:00

PC EZ-Bake Oven - “Now the computer savvy among us can relive the fun of having your very own personal mini-oven with the PC Ez-Bake oven! It fits in a 5 1/4″ drive bay and plugs right into your power supply with the included Molex connector. Also included is “PC Ez-Cook”, the open-source oven controller software with hundreds of easy and creative recipes for your PC Ez-Bake oven, and even a fuzzy-logic cooking control system to precisely measure the doneness of your cake, cookie, or cheese souffle.”

USB Rechargeable Battery - Maybe something usefull for a change. USBCELL is a battery which can be used in normal battery applications and can be recharged simply by plugging into a USB port.

HOW ABOUT THIS?

160 Million Pixel Digital Camera - Check out this cool digital camera made by Seitz. It might not be the most compact digital camera in the world but it sure has other advantages. Coolest thing is probably it’s quite high resolution, 160 million pixels! It should be enough for all you wannabe paparazzos. It also features an user-friendly camera system and software with 800×600 or 1,024×768 pixel colour touch screen for perfect editing, preview, zooming and image control. Before you get too excited, I have to say that prices starts from 29,270 euros.

More...easy lives products?

2008-02-22T11:40:00.004+08:00

PENGUIN TEA TIMER - Making tea, though easy to do, is also time consuming. Once you pour the hot water into the cup, you must patiently hover over it, waiting for the tea to steep. Well, the Penguin Tea Timer happily does the waiting for you. Place your tea cup under the beak and set it to the desired time. As you turn the timer dial, the beak lowers the tea into the hot water. When time is up, a bell sounds and the penguin automatically lifts his beak, removing the tea bag from the water.

TRANSPARENT TOASTER - You love toast, but you always burn it? Than, this invention us for you.This transparent toaster allows you to see the bread while it is toasting so you just have to take it out when the colour is right. This idea is based on a transparent heating glass technology.

BUTTER CUTTER - One Click Butter Cutter controls your portion as an important part of staying healthy. This ingenious butter cutter delivers one standard pat with each click of the handle.

Life made easy?

2008-02-21T23:24:00.005+08:00

CUP & COOKIES-Smart cup in which you can put 2-3 of your favourite cookies. You don't need extra plates. It's made for right handed and left handed.

BANANA GUARD - Protect Your Banana! Are you fed up with bringing bananas to work or school only to find them bruised and squashed? Banana Guard allows you to safely transport and storage individual bananas letting you enjoy perfect bananas anytime, anywhere.

LOCK-CUPLock Cup - Anti-Theft Coffee Cup. Are you tired of others stealing your coffee cup? Well now there's a solution. The Lock - Cup has a hole which prevents most people from using it. Only the owner of the cup can use his/hers shaped key to close the hole.

Badminton Facts

2008-02-16T03:37:00.005+08:00

Badminton is my sport, so here are some facts:
Olympic Sport?
Yes. Badminton premiered as a full-medal Olympic sport at the1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain and was again featured at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. At the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000, badminton continues as a full-medal sport.

Pan American Games Sport?
Yes. Badminton was included for the first time in the XII PanAmerican Games, March 11-26, 1995 in Mar del Plata/Buenos Aires,Argentina. Badminton will also be contested in 1999 at the XIIIPan American Games in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Events Played?
Men's and women's singles, men's and women's doubles, and mixeddoubles. All the events are Olympic events with the Mixed Doubles being included in the Olympic Games for the first time in Atlanta in 1996.

Top World Athletes?
No. 1 ranked men's singles player( as of November 26, 1996): Joko Suprianto of Indonesia; women's singles: Mia Audina (Indonesia); men's doubles: Denny Kantono and Antonius Iriantho (Indonesia); women's doubles: Indarti Isoliana and Denyana Lomban (Indonesia); mixed doubles: Tri Kusharynto and Minarti Timur (Indonesia)

1996 Olympic Champions?
Men's singles: Poul-Erik Hoyer-Larsen (Denmark); women's singles:Bang Soo Hyun (Korea); men's doubles: Ricky Subagja and Rexy Mainaky(Indonesia); women's doubles: Ge Fei and Gu Jun (China); mixed doubles:Kim Dong Moon and Gil Young Ah (Korea)

Top U.S. Athletes?
Kevin Han (Colorado Springs, Colorado) - top American in the world rankings (65 in men's singles as of November 26,1996; was ranked as high as 28 before the 1996 Olympic Games)Final rankings after '94-'95 season - No. 1 ranked men's singles:Kevin Han (Colorado Springs, Colo.); women's singles: KathyZimmerman (Denver, Colo.); men's doubles: Kevin Han/Tom Reidy(Brooklyn, N.Y.); women's doubles: Linda French (Elmhurst,Ill.)/Erika Von Heiland (Anaheim, Calif.); mixed doubles: LindaFrench/Mike Edstrom (Denver Colo.)

Fastest Sport?
Badminton is one the world's fastest racket sports, requiringquick reflexes and superb conditioning. In a badminton smash,the shuttlecock has been timed at speeds over 200 m.p.h. in top international competition.

Aerobic Sport?
Badminton is a highly aerobic sport which can be playedthroughout one's lifetime. In a typical two-game match, a playerrun approximately one mile.

Badminton's Popularity?
A 1993 study revealed that more than 1.2 million Americans playbadminton at least 25 times a year, 760,000 Americans callbadminton their favorite sport, and more than 11.2 millionAmericans played the sport at least once during the year. Internationally, more than 1.1 billion people watched the 1992Olympic badminton competition on television.

Tennis vs. Badminton
Statistics Don't LieThe speed and the stamina required for badminton are far greaterthan for any other racket sport. At the 1985 All England(Tennis) Championships, Boris Becker defeated Kevin Curren 6-3,6-7, 7-6, 6-4. At the 1985 World Badminton Championships inCalgary, Canada, Han Jian of China defeated Morten Frost ofDenmark, 14-18, 15-10, 15-8. The following is a statisticalcomparison of those matches.

What to do during a Kitchen Fire

2008-02-15T19:22:00.001+08:00

I never realized that a wet dishcloth can be a one size fits all lid to cover a fire in a pan! This is a dramatic video (30-second, very short) about how to deal with a common kitchen fire ... oil in a frying pan. Read the following
introduction, then watch the show ... It's a real eye-opener!!

At the Fire Fighting Training school they would demonstrate this with a deep fat fryer set on the fire field. An instructor would don a fire suit and using an 8 oz cup at the end of a10 foot pole toss water onto the grease fire. The results got the attention of the students.

The water, being heavier than oil, sinks to the bottom where it instantly becomes superheated. The explosive force of the steam blows the burning oil up and out. On the open field, it became a thirty foot high fireball that resembled a nuclear blast. Inside the confines of a kitchen, the fire ball hits the ceiling and fills the entire room.

Also, do not throw sugar or flour on a grease fire. One cup creates the explosive force of two sticks of dynamite. This is a powerful message----watch the video and don't forget what you see. Tell your whole family about this video.

Good Drivers.Just Drive

2008-02-15T19:03:00.001+08:00

There is no reason why you cannot keep that mobile phone away from driving. Think of others while driving. This is a short video that I would like to show you. Remember, it only takes a split-second only to lose your concentration. Good drivers, just drive.

Good Qualities of leaders

2008-02-15T13:22:00.002+08:00

1. A good leader will have a positive attitude.
2. A good leader will have responsibitily on what he or she is doing.
3. A good leader aim high.
4. A good leader cares about other people and respect others to get respect in return.
5. A good leader is sporting and willing to accept comments from other people.
6. A good leader is a good listener.
7. A good leader has the potential to make decisions.
8. A good leader is always cheerful and happy; and smiles always.
9. A good leader is not rude and do not look down on other people.
10. A good leader sees other people's creativity and ideas as a factor to be succesful.

There are more to come but at the mean time, these were some of the Good Qualities of Leaders which was featuredin the PJN SEP Programme.