NOW Smoking In Fashion

A healthcare premium differential is just one example of a workplace incentive employers are using to encourage healthy lifestyles and to get employees to quit smoking. Smoking cessation in the workplace is a hot topic in the media, but until now there hasn't been any proof that incentives to encourage people to quit smoking actually improve cessation rates.

Free & Clear, Inc., the national leader in evidence-based tobacco-cessation programs delivered via the phone and internet, today announced results of a 2007 analysis of cessation outcomes. The analysis, which was conducted among more than 1,150 participants, found that quit rates of employer programs exceeded 40 percent and that employer programs that included premium differentials and/or other incentives, which are generally incorporated into comprehensive cessation programs, had the highest quit rates, 50 percent higher than clients without incentives.

To date, this is the first real-world evaluation that shows how incentives as part of a comprehensive worksite tobacco-control effort that includes the availability of phone-based counseling, can positively impact quit rates.

"An increasing number of employers are directly funding tobacco-cessation programs," said Dr. Susan Zbikowski, Free & Clear's Vice President of Clinical and Behavioral Sciences. "Employer-funded cessation programs are very successful. The results of this analysis provide evidence that incentives are successful as part of a comprehensive tobacco-control strategy used by employers."

A number of Free & Clear clients incorporate incentives into their tobacco-cessation programming. Employers focused on providing employees with a comprehensive cessation program generally include a variety of tactics, including policies for a smoke-free worksite, access to free intensive counseling services and medication, premium differentials and other incentives for engaging in, and/or completing, the program.

"Nearly 30 percent of Free & Clear's clients implement some kind of incentive to get people to quit tobacco," said Mary Kate Salley, Free & Clear's Senior Vice President of Client Services. "Given the data we now have showing how much more effective a comprehensive approach can be, other organizations might benefit from incorporating additional tactics such as incentives into their tobacco-cessation strategy."

Free & Clear's Quit For Life® Program helps people overcome their addiction to tobacco using a combination of phone-based cognitive behavioral coaching, medication support and web-based learning and social support. The Quit For Life Program has helped more than 200,000 Americans successfully quit smoking since 2004, translating to over two million years of life added and $1 billion in cost savings. Free & Clear's Quit For Life Program is currently offered by over 200 employer, health plan and government clients.

In 2007, Free & Clear carried out an analysis of predictors of quit outcomes. Results are based on nearly 1,150 participants from employers offering the Quit For Life Program. Participant characteristics (e.g., demographics and tobacco history variables), program utilization (e.g., number of calls completed), and program/benefit structure (e.g., direct provision of medications, re-enrollment options, use of premium differentials and/or other incentives) were analyzed as predictors of six-month quit outcomes. A multivariate logistic analysis was conducted. A final model was derived by testing all significant variables from separate models simultaneously and removing variables that were no longer significant. Number of calls completed, time to first tobacco use upon waking, age and program/benefit design (use of premium differentials and/or other incentives) were determined to be significant predictors of quitting at six months.

Short Exercises

Many busy professionals feel that working out isn’t worth the time unless they can exercise for forty minutes or longer and it’s true that many healthcare workers and government agencies used to recommend that all adults get thirty consecutive minutes of aerobic exercise per day. But this is the twenty-first century and the fact of the matter is that you don’t have to do all your exercise at once to reap the health benefits. Research has shown that short, intense exercise segments throughout the day are just as effective as longer workouts at burning calories, increasing cardio endurance and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Even as little as five minutes can go a long way towards balancing hormones in the body and making you a happier person – is that great or what? You no longer have to worry about finding a large block of free time to work out; just take a coffee break and in five minutes you can feel totally rejuvenated. One of the greatest things about shorter workouts is that they have tremendous potential to reshape your body with a minimum time commitment. Incorporating strength training exercises into your daily schedule is a powerful tool for both heart health and muscle strength. Spend five minutes doing lower body exercises and after several weeks you can tell a difference. Spend ten minutes on a power workout and results will show up in three weeks or less. Use the following ten-minute express workouts on a regular basis for a month and you will see remarkable changes in your body’s strength. You can do these workouts in your office with the door closed or, if your office is a cubicle, in the restroom or some other private area. Do whatever is necessary for you to fit in your exercise time at work. Express Workout 1: Hips and ThighsHips and thighs can be a frustrating area to shape up especially for women. Thanks to the physiological design of female bodies, fat tends to be stored in the thighs and hips and can be very resistant to toning efforts. Perform this routine three to four times weekly in conjunction with aerobic exercise and your body will begin to reshape in six to ten weeks. Squats: Squats are performed by standing with feet about shoulder-width apart and arms by sides. Keep strong posture and slowly lower buttocks as though about to sit down in a chair. Lower several inches and then slowly raise. Pliès: Adopted from ballet, pliès are performed by standing with feet just wider than shoulder-width and toes pointed outward. With a hand on a chair or wall for balance, slowly drop body straight down for several inches and then come back up. To increase intensity, on the final pliè, stay in a lowered position and slowly pulse your body up and down about an inch. This fatigues the muscle faster. Lunges: Lunges are performed by standing with feet about shoulder-width apart and hands on hips. Stand tall and take a large step forward with one foot, and remain in that position. Turn your back foot up until balanced on the toes and then slowly lower your body until your front knee forms a right angle. Slowly raise your body back up. Repeat on each side. Leg Stretches: Stand with feet about shoulder-width apart and one hand holding a chair or wall for balance. Raise one foot behind you and reach back with your hand, grab the foot and gently pull it towards your buttocks. This stretches the quadriceps muscle on the front of the leg. Repeat with each leg. For stretching the calf muscle, place one foot slightly in front of you and point your toes up, balancing on the heel. Keep your weight on the foot that is not being stretched. Repeat on both sides. All times are approximate. 0:01 – 1:00 – Begin by walking briskly in place to warm up the muscles. Warming the muscles makes them pliable and will allow you to work longer. 1:01 – 3:00 – Perform as many squats as possible in two minutes.3:01 – 4:00 – Rest for one minute.4:01 – 6:00 – Perform as many pliès as possible in two minutes.6:01 – 7:00 – Rest for one minute.7:01 – 9:00 – Perform as many lunges (both legs) as possible in two minutes.9:01 – 10:00 – Recovery and stretching. Express Workout 2 – Arms and ShouldersBuilding strength in your upper body is a vital part of any workout plan and fortunately it can be a fairly easy area to strengthen. Powerful arms are important for both men and women to assist with everyday life – it’s surprising how many typical daily tasks require using the shoulders, back and arms. By building those muscles, you will take some of the daily stress of your body. This 10-minute express workout develops the biceps, triceps, upper back muscles and shoulders. Bicep Curls: Curls are done by standing with your feet about shoulder-width apart and weights in both hands. Tuck your elbows firmly against your sides with palms facing forward. Slowly raise the weight almost to your shoulder for a count of 5 and then lower it, again for a count of 5. Overhead Press: The overhead press is performed by standing with feet about shoulder-width apart and a straight back, holding a weight in each hand. Bring the hands up to the shoulders and then slowly lift up for a count of 5. Raise the weights until the arm is almost fully extended; then release and lower downward. Triceps Raise: Stand tall with feet slightly more than shoulder-width. With weights in hands, lift straight overhead until almost fully extended. Turn palms inward to face each other. Slowly begin to lower the weight down toward your back until the elbow forms a right angle; then raise the weight. Forward Press: Standing with feet a few inches past shoulder-width. With weights in hands, bring up to shoulders. Slowly press the weights forward; then pull back. Be sure to keep arms level with shoulders and move forward and back slowly. Stretches: Stretch the arms by raising your arms overhead, dropping one hand behind your head and using the other hand to gently press the elbow back to stretch the triceps muscle. Repeat with the other arm. Next, raise both arms overhead, lace fingers together and press arms outward. Lastly, bring one arm across the front of your body and use the other hand to press the arm against the body to stretch the biceps muscle. 0:01 – 0:30 – Warm up 0:31 – 2:30 – Perform as many slow, quality biceps curls as possible within two minutes.2:31 – 3:00 – Rest for thirty seconds. 3:01 – 5:00 – Begin overhead raises and complete as many quality raises as possible within two minutes. 5:01 – 5:30 – Rest for thirty seconds. 5:31 – 7:30 – Complete as many accurate triceps presses as possible within two minutes. 7:31 – 8:00 – Rest for thirty seconds. 8:01 – 10:00 – Complete as many properly done forward presses as possible within two minutes. Extra time: Stretch if you have time available. Express Workout 3 – Abdominal MusclesHaving strong core muscles is crucial to protecting the spine and maintaining good posture. When your body is supported by strong central muscles it’s easier to perform everyday tasks as well as exercise. Abdominal workouts won’t flatten the stomach – that requires aerobic exercise – but they will strengthen and tone the muscles. Basic Curls: Perform the basic curl by lying on your back with knees bents. Place your fingertips at your ears and use your stomach muscles to pull yourself about five or six inches. Slowly lower back down. Avoid using momentum to perform the exercises. Cross-Curls: Begin in basic curl position. Contract stomach muscles and lift to the right as you bring your right elbow to your left knee. Switch and bring left elbow to right knee. Bicycle: Begin in basic curl position but prop your upper body up on your elbows. Straighten your legs and then raise both legs several inches off the floor. Pull your right leg in to your body; then extend it as you pull in your left leg. Continue doing so; thus “bicycling.” Rope Climb: Begin in basic curl position. Raise your legs straight up into the air while keeping your upper body flat on the floor. Using your abdominals to lift your upper back off the floor, use your hands and arms to pretend you are climbing a rope. Grasp the “rope” with your right hand as you bring your right side off the floor; then switch and use your left hand. Stretches: Lie on your stomach with hands at about shoulder-height. Slowly use your hands to lift your upper body off the floor and stretch your abdominals. 0:01 – 2:00 – Perform as many well-done basic curls as possible within two minutes. 2:01 – 2:30 – Rest for thirty seconds.2:31 – 4:30 – Complete as many accurate cross-curls as possible within two minutes.4:31 – 5:00 – Rest for thirty seconds. 5:01 – 7:00 – “Bicycle” for two minutes. 7:01 – 7:30 – Rest for thirty seconds. 7:31 – 9:30 – “Climb” the “rope” for two minutes. 9:31 – 10:00 – Stretch the abdominal muscles.

Tips to Obtain Better Sound

http://select%20trends%204%20us.blog%20spot.com/17. PS; Principally I avoid giving specific brands in my non commercial web site. But PS Audio Power Plant is such a special product that similar components do not comparable with. It is a kind of power regenerator powered by electricity. P300 actually regenerates new AC for the audio gear. This regenerated AC is of much better quality than filtered AC because of the stabile voltage and near perfect AC waveform. It also removes 70 dB of EMI and RFI noise from the AC line!
Not all friends are agreed with me but according to me, it is very special equipment that lifts up the entire system to a higher level.
What would you expect from it is much relaxed sound, more layered deep and wide soundstage, crystalline treble and more inner details. Improvements are immediately apparent. Take care to use with power hungry amplifiers. (I am not sure about this currently Note: 2005)
18. CD Surface Treatments; There is several kinds of CD surface treatments in the market. They shine the surface of CD, thus laser picks up more information. What can be expected from a surface treatment is the high frequencies are cleaner and more extended. The easiest and the cheapest method of CD surface treatment is the one that used by pipe lovers .That is the human oil on the skin of face.
I apologize for that ugly tweak but our systems are personal and private anyway don't they. Human oil has the perfect thin viscosity and can be absorbed by CD surface very easily and effectively. Listen your CD first, smear the CD throughout your forehead and spread the oil with your finger and listen it again.
Don't forget to spread the oil by your finger every time prior to listen that CD.
19. Objective of the Third Dimension ; The objective of a stereo system is to achieve 3.rd dimension via two channels. All the hi-end or hi-fi equipments have own character, timbre and tonality. For instance a titanium tweeter will have different tonality then a silk dome tweeter. Two different brands of loudspeakers will have different tonalities as if they use the same drive units. The tonality of high end equipment mostly depends on the listening preferences of the designer. We will most probably not like if hear different tonalities from our own equipments even though the other system sounds much better. This case is so often faced; most of the audiophiles don't like the sound of somebody else’s system despite it is a better system. This case is also evident when buying or testing new equipment at homes. We sometimes test better equipment at home but feel something is still missing compared to our own equipment.
I remember very well, when Sony introduced the first 20 Bits CD player, most of the people found the sound harsh, edgy and coloured. People used to listen dark sounding CD players up to that time and hearing more inner details disturbed them.
I also remember very well that when I modified my old B&W 801 Matrix II monitor speakers and cancelled their protection units, the new sound had disturbed me a lot. I was such unhappy by the new sound and could not have listened at my system for several days. At that time, the manufacturer expressed that "the protection units were needed due to the speakers were designed mainly for recording studios". They also told to me that the new sound must be clearly better due to the crossover resistance that affects especially the lower mid and upper bass was lowered fairly. After several days of listening them, the sound became better and better. Eventually the sound was surprisingly perfect after few weeks. Actually the sound was the same but perception was changing. (My brain reference was changing)
If this is the often case, how do we distinguish the better unit by listening! There are several ways of it but for me the main method is third dimension capability. This is not the only case for sure but generally speaking, if two units are compared, the better one is the one delivers bigger soundstage, more dept and more height.
This is also the theory of Peter Quodrup from Audio Note UK and I am hundred percent agreed with him.The distortion of an electronic device is does not effect the tonality of the equipment but mainly effects the inner details. Soundstage dept and height are such hidden factors in inner details that they will be affected first. If the unit provide lower distortion, more precise soundstage, especially more dept will be provided.
20. The Least Powerful Ring of a Chain; Hi-Fi is a kind of chain. Strength of a chain depends on the least powerful ring. Assume a water hose consists of variety of wideness. Derived water capacity will be in accordance with the thinner part.
A system should consist of similar level of equipments. If you add the best CD transport to a standard level of system, there will be some changes but not as expected. Also a poor digital cable will compress the entire sound quality of a very good system.
A long term plan should be prepared before setting up a system and the pieces should be purchased in time. Hurried purchases may come as replacement expense within one or two years.
21. Don't Immediately Judge a Unit, Give a Chance; Every system can sound well in time. System synergy is a kind of time dependent factor that sometimes takes months, even years. Sometimes we make quick decisions and quick prejudices for good products and immediately make unfair observations. According to me, the main element of the hi-end chain is the loudspeaker. If tonality and characteristics of the speaker is generally fine, or if the overall tonality of the entire system is generally fine, the system can be carried up for several further steps by playing with cables, tweaks, locations, tubes etc.
22. Critical Adjustments Should be Done by Listening Symphonic Music or Chorus Music; Once we decided about the main components of our system, we play with cables, tubes, tweaks and other accessories till finding the desired tonality. Adjusting the tonal balance of a system by listening single instruments or jazz trios may mislead us.
Upper mid and the treble bands of a sound is easily disappeared if somebody is far away from the original signal. This is the case, if we listen at a live concert or listen at a hi-end system. If this is the case, such instruments like saxophone, guitar, violin, even a human voice are darker and distant if we listen at a very good live record. Whenever we increase mid/treble band of the system by tweaks, such instruments became more open, detailed and dynamic. But one thing should be in mind that we may add a subtle amount of coloration to sound unconsciously. If a system is trimmed by listening small trios or single instruments, singe voices, this risk is really big. Such a system may not play a classical music performed by a big orchestra. If such symphonic music is listened, the system may reveal harshness and brightness.
It is often said that somebody's system plays well in classics but sounds quite dark in jazz, or somebody else's system is quite revealing in jazz but very bright and glazing at classical music. I believe this is the main reason of those phenomena
END
Hi-End is such a passion that so many opportunist firms and persons are added every year in spite hi-end community is not growing enough. Prices are multiplied by 3, 5, 10s every year. Every producer pretends to be one of the best in the world or at least within particular price level. Manufacturers issue review reports prepared by some ones!
No testing equipments in today's technology can prove that their claims are correct or no testing equipments can invalidate that their claims are wrong. In no way equipment can compare two units each other and prove that one is better sounding then the other. Pretended best in the world equipments/cables often suck in blind testing. If this is the case, it is easy to claim to be the best in the world due to nobody can prove the opposite.
The price of valuable equipment can fall down to 1/3 of the purchasing price within few years by the additions of MK-II's, MK-III's, Special Editions, and Signature Versions
While the best speaker in the world was sold by 7.000 ? Twenty years ago, the best speaker nowadays is more then 200.000? A poor line stage which is used to lower the volume is sold out by 40.000.?
Hi-End technology does not grow up for years. Most of the hi-end producers are very small family entrepreneurs that targeting very rich few niche people. They don't have proper research and development laboratories. Design and esthetical properties are the priorities.
I have the strong impression that Hi-End is digging its own grave with that pricing policy. We will see what will happen to hi-end after 30 years.
It is a deep less hole. My humble recommendations for the just starters is that go with second hand market products and go by reasonable priced equipments to minimize the losses of years. Never look for the perfect sound which is not exist in any money. Keep in mind that a 300.000? Worth amplifier may be % 2-3 better then a 5.000? Worth of his small brother.
Best regards with lots of music..

13 Things Women Want in a Man

You may think that women want someone who is buffed and tanned and looks like a bodybuilder model from GQ. Those things are nice and yes we like to look at those guys, but just like you don’t need for us to look like Victoria Secret models we don’t require it in our man. OK. The 13 most important qualities that women look for in a man are: 1. Honesty 2. Intelligence 3. Nice Smile 4. Sense of Humor 5. Manners 6. Sensitivity 7. Sincerity 8. Gainfully employed 9. Has own place 10. Owns a car 11. Affectionate 12. Considerate 13. Thoughtful OK. First things first. Honesty is the NUMBER ONE trait that women look for in a man. That doesn’t mean to be brutally honest and tell her she looks fat. (Never do that) but we want to know that we can trust that what you are telling us is the truth. If you’ve lied in the past it will be a very cold day in Hell before she trusts you again. And she may want to check your phone messages and read your email and call you 10 times a day to feel secure that you’re trustworthy again. You may not like that but if you lie it may be the price you have to pay. Intelligence: Women want to feel safe and protected and we want our men to be smart. Maybe even smarter than us. Women feel that your brain is your sexiest organ. So dazzle us with your brain and you will be surprised how stimulated we become. Kick her ass at “Jeopardy” and watch what happens. Smile: We love your smile. We can’t get enough of it. It makes us want to touch you and kiss you. So brush and floss and see your dentist and keep your mouth kissably fresh. Sense of Humor: If you can keep us laughing you are golden. We love to laugh and we love a man who can make us laugh. This goes back to the smart thing as well. You have to be smart to be humorous. We like a man who’s humor challenges us. Leave that 3 Stooges stuff for the guys.

Women don’t appreciate 12 year old juvenile humor. Manners: Little things like manners are very important. Women don’t want their man to drive up and reach over from the driver’s seat and open the passenger door or just wait for us to open the door. A little old fashioned chivalry goes a long way. Escort the lady to the car and open the door for her. We love to be treated like queens. It makes us feel like you think we’re special. And hopefully you do think she’s special. We love a man with manners. We know we can take him home and our parents will love him. We don’t want to have to worry about what you might do or say. We want to be with a man not a boy. That means no farting, belching, toe or nose picking, spitting, or smacking your lips when you eat. We want to know we can take you in public and we won’t be embarrassed. And don’t forget we also like to show you off to our girlfriends and we want them to approve. You want the girlfriends to think you’re a “Keeper”. Sensitive: That whole thing about being “Sensitive” and getting in touch with your “Feminine Side” are all very true. A woman is waaaay more attracted to a man who isn’t afraid to show his feelings and be gentle and sensitive. We actually think that makes you more manly. A man who clams up and thinks being macho is what we want is very wrong. One of the things that is extremely attractive to a woman is when it’s obvious that you are attracted to us. There is nothing hotter than seeing how much we turn you on. Don’t be afraid to show that. But of course there are limits and this can easily be overdone. Be careful about showing things like that at work or you might find yourself in a sexual harassment situation. And if you decide to try to tip your hand to a woman and show your interest, remember to keep it subtle. No woman likes a STALKER or a HORNDOG! We love to know that we are getting to you, but not in an obnoxious way. You may have to make some changes in your behavior. But of course, they’ll be changes for the better and you will most likely be happier for it. Sincerity: This is a little like honesty, but what I mean is if you need to change some of your behaviors to be more attractive to women then don’t just do it to get the girl. This is something that has to be real. If you think that’s not you, then maybe you should think about making a change. You can decide you don’t want to change, that you like yourself the way you are, but if that was working for you then you probably wouldn’t be reading this article. You were drawn to this piece because you must truly want to know how to be better with women and if you sincerely do then you may need to take an honest look at yourself and decide what you want because it has to be real. Employed: OK. This is a no-brainer, but truthfully there are some men out there without jobs that think they can get all the women they want. I have no idea what makes them think that, but their egos are on overtime. Women need security and we want a man who can provide for us. That doesn’t mean we don’t want to work, but it does mean that we want to know that you are a responsible MAN. Has Own Place: OK. Matthew McConaughey was really cute in Failure to Launch but that was a comedy. Seriously we don’t want to have a sleepover at your Mom’s house. Having your own place just shows us again that you are a responsible adult. And it does help if your place is decorated nicely. I don’t mean you have to hire a decorator, but we’re not drawn to frathouse chic. Impress us with your style. Again we want MEN not BOYS! Has Own Car: This may not be important if you live in New York or in a place where the public transportation makes owning a car unnecessary but in most of the world you need a car to pick up your date and take her out. It is important to mention here that even though we love luxury cars we don’t need that in our man. Women love men with all kinds of cars, but FYI keep your car clean (especially the inside). Nothing says SLOB more than a dirty car. Take out the fast food wrappers and keep it neat and smelling nice. Affectionate: We really do love to touch and be touched. And I am not talking sexually here. But try holding her hand when she’s not expecting it or gently rubbing her back. Little touchy things like that mean a lot. Rub her arm when you’re reading the paper or do little things like foot and hand massages. Women love that. Be Considerate: We appreciate the little things like holding a door open or not walking ahead of us. If we’re sleeping make sure you turn out the light when you leave. Show her you care by picking up after yourself. When you get some dessert out of the fridge ask if she’d like some or make sure you leave some for her. Just basic consideration is so important to us. Thoughtfullness: This may sound like consideration, but it goes a little further. Being thoughtful of her needs goes a long way. Maybe give her a call from work just to see how she’s doing. While we love that we don’t want to be smothered with a bunch of calls all day long. Bring something home for her when you go to the store, like some fresh flowers (I know that’s cliché, but that’s because it works) or maybe some of her favorite ice cream…just because. This shows us that you are thinking of us and that makes us feel important and special. Those 2 words important and special should be burned into your brain. If you can always make a woman feel important and special you will be an irrisistable Chick Magnet.

Musuic hestory in the wirld

Music in Britain prior to the seventeenth century, or at any rate the latter part of the sixteenth, presents itself under very much the same aspects as on the Continent. On the one hand Church music, on the other Minstrelsy and latterly, the rise of a secular art, secular in spirit but hampered with Church traditions.

Church music in England at the time of the pre-reformation period moved along the same lines as that of the Continent, although probably existing in a far less advanced stage of cultivation. Minstrelsy, however, was highly regarded among English, Irish, Welsh, and Scottish; and among the Irish and Welsh the bardic caste enjoyed a degree of power and influence probably unknown in any other country of the world.

Thus in Ireland the three grades of minstrels or bards of the legendary period, the Oblansh-Re-Dan, or Filidhe, the poets; the Breithanhain, or Brehons, promulgators of the law, and the Seanachaidhe, the historians and genealogists exerted a tremendous influence among the princes and chiefs of Ireland. A similar, although lesser, measure of power and influence was 'enjoyed by the Welsh bards.

Unswayed by the imperfectly understood system of the Greek theorists, which, thanks to Boethius, were perpetuating a species of artistic cramp among Church composers, the folk-music of this country, governed solely by man's natural sense of fitness, made astonishing progress.

Giraldus Cambrensis, who lived in the twelfth century, in his Cambriae Descriptio says-

"In the northern parts of Britain, beyond the Humber and on the borders of Yorkshire, the people there inhabiting, make use of a kind of symphoniac harmony in singing, but with only two differences or varieties of tones or voices. In this kind of modulation, one person sings the under part in a low voice, while another sings the upper in a voice equally soft and pleasing. This they do not so much by art as by a habit, which long practice has rendered almost natural; and this method of singing is become so prevalent amongst these people, that hardly any melody is accustomed to be uttered simply, or otherwise than variously, or in this twofold manner"

With this should be combined another extract from the same writer, as illustrating the wide-spread taste for music in the British Islands at that early period. In 1171 Giraldus 'Cambrensis, or Gerald Barry, Bishop of St. David's, to give him his proper name and title in English, visited Ireland in the suite of Henry the Second; and in his Topographia Hibernia there are the following impressions of the National Music of the Irish :-

"The attention of this people to musical instruments I find worthy of commendation, in which their skill is beyond comparison superior to that of any nation I have seen ; for in these the modulation is not slow and solemn, as in the instruments of Britain, to which we are accustomed, but the sounds are rapid and precipitate, yet at the same time sweet and pleasing. It is wonderful how, in such rapidity of the fingers, the musical proportions are preserved, and by their art, faultless throughout, in the midst of their complicated modulations, and most intricate arrangement of notes, by a rapidity so sweet, a regularity so irregular, a concord so discordant, the melody is rendered harmonious and perfect, whether the chords of the Diatesseron, or Diapente, are struck together; yet they always begin in a soft mood, and end in the same, that all may be perfected in the sweetness of delicious sound. They enter on, and again leave their modulations with so much subtility, and the tinglings of the small strings sport with so much freedom under the deep notes of the bass, delight with so much delicacy, and soothe so softly, that the excellence of their art seems to lie in concealing it"

English literature of the Middle Ages is full of references to minstrels and minstrelsy, and abounds in quaint and curious details of their life and manners; and for the present-day reader, with a great desire for information concerning the early music of this country, no better authority exists than Chappell's entertaining "Popular Music of the Olden Time."

More distinguished in the Middle Ages for the cultivation of folk-music than that of the Church. Medieval England yet produced a very respectable body of theoretical writers, and to England belongs the credit of possessing the oldest piece of polyphonic and canonic composition known to be in existence, the old Northumbrian round, "Sumer is icumen in," which was transcribed by a monk of Reading called John of Fornsete, in the early years of the thirteenth century.

The earliest English writer on music was Walter Odyngton, an Evesham monk, who was born somewhere about 1180. He wrote a treatise, "De Speculatione Musicae," of which the only known copy is now in the library of Christ's College, Cambridge. Other writers were Simon Tunstede, of Norwich, born about 1310; Robert de Handlo; John Dunstable; John Hamboys, the first to hold the degree of Doctor of Music; and John Hothby, a Carmelite monk, who, however, lived on the Continent, and died at Florence in or about the year 1480.

$12 And 90 Minutes To Change Your Life

Have you ever listened to self hypnosis tapes? Or listened repeatedly to certain music that carried a specific message? Or what about, have you attended weekly services within a specific religious venue?
What do all of these have in common? They influence and change your thinking and paradigm over time to whatever it is they espouse.
James Allen wrote “as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he”. What we continually dwell on—consciously and unconsciously is what will shape our thoughts and the world in which we operate. That is why optimism allows some in poverty to believe they have a wonderful life. And another person in the same home, living the same conditions - yet suffering from a pessimistic attitude, will hate and struggle within their circumstances.
Self-hypnosis tapes work on our subconscious when we are relaxed so that we do not fight the message, nor answer it in our minds with refuting negativity as we overcome obstacles that we need help with. Music, repeatedly heard, eventually floats through our minds almost unnoticed. Its message—beyond just lyrics, begins to be woven within our ideology and outlook. There are enough news reports of teens over the years acting out in alignment with what artists call “just music”. And there are as many within religious organizations that call upon inspirational music as what carried them over through rough times. Also, between scriptures, sermons, classes and books… those within any religious setting begin to shape their lives according to the basic tenants and premises of that line of thought.
But what about you?? You have goals, dreams, ideas too. You have things you wish to accomplish, things you wish to strive to. You have ideas about the way you want to feel when living on target. So how can we take a clue from programming in the three situations above to allow YOU – yourself, to begin to program your own destiny?
Perhaps you have heard of the technique of writing down your goals daily in order to bring them into reality. Well that works well if you are one of society that learns through writing and visualization. We all learn in different ways. I have tried this method without much success mostly because I am not a visual or written only learner. And partly because I forget to keep at it day after day.
Good news!! I have found something that will work for those of us who learn audibly—through our hearing. Assuming that you are totally technology free in your home (which would be rare) all this will cost you is $12 and 90 minutes of your time. For $12 you can go to Walmart and pick up a small tape recorder with the capacity to record tapes. And also buy at least 1 low quality tape holding 90 minutes of possible record time on it. This will be fantastic to start. That is really all it takes to move you into a GREAT life that you design.
What you will do is make a list off all you goals—in EVERY area of your life. Then I want you to load up the tape recorder and read your goals into that recorder. Read them as if your goals have been accomplished “ I own a beach house on the east coast” , “all my debt is paid off”, “I guest lecture twice a year” , “I have 42 motorcycles in my new display show room” etc. Whatever it is you want for work, leisure, love, retirement, etc! List them and read them. Then go back to the top of your list and keep re-reading them until you have finished a whole side. Then do it again for the other side.
A few suggestions—do this when you are having a great day! You want your voice to be happy, not down. Also, record on both sides of the tape so that when one side is done you do not have to rewind. This way, the next time you are ready to play it you simply turn it over and hit play.
Does it work? Well, I myself did a tape this past summer. I used to just play it as background noise while I would work on the computer, or while doing dishes or folding laundry. I lost it about a month ago when my son shuffled a bunch or our tapes and such around. I found it this past weekend and played it.
Guess what???
Several of the things I speak about on the tape are WELL on their way to becoming current reality!! From the types of people I wanted to begin getting more involved with, to specific speaking engagements, to simple things like the opportunity for a specific extra curricular activity for my son which “ironically” became available at his after school care program. That one is amazing because they haven’t offered it before and not only will it be offered.. but it will be twice a week like I said on the tape. Those are just a few of the examples. But there isn’t anything on there that has not begun. I will be honest and tell you there were a few things that did come into my reality and I have changed my mind now after having the opportunity to try them out. But every item has at least begun for me in less than 4 months.
We bring into our reality that which we focus on! So if you are a very busy person, as most of us are, this is a GREAT way to program your mind towards the achievement of your goals. The cost is minor- from scratch it is only $12 and 90 minutes to begin living a life by design and not by default.
Until next time—all the best,

Hair News

Nick Arrojo
DailyCeleb.com All Rights Reserved
(New York) Celebrity hair stylist Nick Arrojo has signed with NBC's Peacock Productions for an upcoming reality series currently in development. The announcement was made today by Sharon Scott, Executive Vice President of Peacock Productions.
Arrojo, previously of TLC's hit show "What Not to Wear," is an acclaimed stylist and educator in the business. His work is regularly featured in fashion magazines, and he's a regular stylist at New York fashion shows and a regular guest for hair-related news stories on NBC and ABC.
In 2003, he formed ARROJO education; and in 2007, he successfully launched the ARROJO product.
His first book, Great Hair, a self-help hairstyling handbook providing every woman with secrets for looking fabulous and feeling beautiful, was released in October 2008.
Born in Manchester, England, Arrojo's career began as a Vidal Sassoon apprentice. He won the prestigious Young Hairdresser of the Year Award and, at 21, became Vidal's youngest ever Assistant Creative Director.
After 20 years in the industry, including stints as Creative Seminar leader for Wella International and Director of Education for Bumble and Bumble, New York, he opened ARROJO studio in Manhattan's SoHo district in 2001.
About Peacock Productions
Peacock Productions is an award-winning, nonfiction production company that combines the editorial expertise, technical resources and seasoned production talent of NBC News to offer a wide-range of programming to broadcast, cable and digital entities with worldwide reach.

Hair Quiffs From The 50s

Blame the return of the hair "quiff" on Patrick Robinson who's the sizzling new designer at Perry Ellis. Robinson showcased a fun, yet fresh, fashion collection at The Olympus Fashion Week in New York.
Not only did Robinson's spectacular designs showcase the 50s-inspired clothing styles that are currently flooding the fashion scene, he had many of his models coiffed in the hot new quiff-like hairdos.
Famous for being upbeat, optimistic and edgy, Robinson matched his fun fashion designs with the retro hairstyles that are a combination of a heavily backcombed pouffy crowns with a mid-head straight tail.
There is some controversy over whether the quiff (pronounced so it sounds like wiff with a Q in front) is a 40s, 50s or 60s hairstyle.
Some fashionistas claim the quiff first appeared in the mid 1940s around the time that World War II ended. Others link it back to the era of the 50s or the 60s.
In reality, the quiff doesn't fade very far from the catwalks. The edgy style emerges every few years in a variety of incarnations from a partial to a full blown hair design.
Imagine my excitement when I spotted gorgeous blonde Kaley Cuoco of ABC's 8 Simple Rules (now defunct) on Jimmy Kimmel with a low key example of the hot new hairstyle.
Ironically, the Paris haute couture fashion show season which followed The Olympus Fashion Week in New York by several months demonstrated that Robinson is truly a trend setter. Designer Yohi Yamamoto edged up his hot 50s fashion trends revolving around pastel cardigans and pretty skirts. Yamamoto folded in some oversized suits on rail thin models with industrial-strength lacquered sky high quiffs.

Grunge Clothing

Clothing and ways of dressing up have been changing for decades now, right from the 1970s up to the recent 2000s. Apparels have a very substantial impact on the way a person looks. The style of wearing clothes in the previous decades have certainly had an effect on the way people wear clothes at present. One of the fashion trends that arose to fame in the 1990s is grunge clothing. The 1990s was when the rock music scene declined and the grunge music rose to fame. Let us discuss more about grunge clothing styles.

Grunge Clothing

When we think of grunge clothing, the first thing that generally comes to our mind is the apparel worn by musicians in the 1990s. Some of the grunge bands that became popular and set a clothing standard were Nirvana and Pearl Jam. As grunge clothing came up in the 1990s, it had a lot to do in common with the 80s style clothing. People had a particular belief regarding grunge clothing. They thought that its main characteristic was not at all related to looking stylish and fashionable. All that grunge clothing mattered about was comfort to the fullest, no matter how the wearer looked. And it was the comfort factor that made this clothing popular among youngsters and teenagers in the 1990s. Now, let us take a look at what grunge clothing was all about. Read more on retro clothing ideas.

Grunge Clothing for Girls and Boys

Flannel is a type of fabric which is used in shirts. Both girls and boys preferred to wear shirts made with this material. Just for the sake of comfort, people wore oversized flannel shirts which had crisscross patterns. The colors of grunge clothing were mostly not too bright, but faint and dull. Colors such as maroon, indigo, gray, blue, dark green, and similar others were the best choices in 1990s fashion trends. In short, loose fitting and dull colored clothes were a standard feature in grunge clothing.

When it came to wearing pants; tight fitting and dark colored jeans were not in fashion. Instead, a majority of grunge fans preferred to put on tattered, ripped, stone washed, worn out, baggy sized pants. During the colder months, people wore a pajama under the old, ripped, and worn out kind of jeans. Most women opted for wearing skirts instead of jeans. And as footwear, Dr. Martens-styled shoes were worn. Overalls were also considered an important part of grunge clothing. They were good options because of the wearing comfort and practicability.

Clothing was considered more grunge if it was worn out or old. Jeans and denim jackets were a part of the fashion trends in the grunge music times. Members of the grunge community preferred to wear tank tops under flannel shirts and 3/4ths for a comfortable look. Few female members of the grunge community wore baby doll dresses, as such apparel contributed to utmost comfort. Hair was also a notable factor along with grunge clothing. Most grunge fans and musicians chose to keep their hair long, till shoulder length.

Wardrobe Basics

Having your wardrobe filled with clothes and accessories is not enough. You might have a number of tops and dresses but may not find one suitable piece of clothing when you need it for a particular occasion! Well, open the doors, look from top to bottom and ask yourself, "Do I have the wardrobe basics right?". While women might not mind adding a few more, men might wonder what do the wardrobe basics include, shirts, suits, denims, ties and shoes? Well, I have them all! Are you sure? Having the right pieces in the right style is what makes your wardrobe complete. Well, no need to sit in front of your closet with a wardrobe basics checklist. Here are the details of wardrobe must haves for men and women. Keep reading and shopping...

Men's Wardrobe Basics

Shirts
A dressy white and a dressy blue button down shirt are the must have men's clothing. These are perfect to be worn with suits and dressy pants on any type of formal occasion.

Suits
A well tailored suit is another clothing item that tops the list of wardrobe basics for men. One in classic black or ultimate gray color is best to be worn on special occasions. A gray suit with pinstripes can also be considered something that looks perfect for business attire for men and business casual attire as well. Best to go for a single-breasted suit if you are adding just one piece to your wardrobe.

Pants
It is essential to have dressy pants in colors like black, gray and beige in your wardrobe. You can slip into these on special occasions and business events as well and look perfect.

Ties
A great looking solid colored tie is the ultimate piece of men's accessory. You must have 2-3 pieces of neckties in your closet to compliment your dressy shirts and suits. Make sure you pick those in the right width and designs.

Casuals
Khaki chinos are another piece of wardrobe basics for men which can be worn while dressing up according to a business casual dress code. These can also double up as casual wear with a crisp white shirt. Yes, a crisp, straight fit, full sleeves white shirt which you can either leave out or tuck-in is another basic men's wear. This can make a man look really young when paired with classic denims.

Denims and Tees
A denim in the ultimate dark blue and cool light blue shade is the most comfy piece of men's fashion clothing. So do you have those killer denims? Well, with these denims also get t-shirts in a few basic shades like white, black and gray. A black casual shirt is another clothing item that gives men a killer look when paired with dark blue denims, so do consider buying one.

Accessories
A good quality, smart looking pair of eyeglass is a must. Next, get yourself a leather belt matching with a quality pair of dress shoes. Make sure you match the color of belt and shoes. Also, a formal watch is something that gives men the perfect look. You must match the belt of the watch (if in metal) with the buckle of your waist belt and if the belt of your watch is in leather, match it with your waist belt's color. Apart from this, a decent suitcase, office bag, laptop sleeve, whatever you need, must be added to your closet. A leather wallet and a leather business card case is something that needs no mention. A pair of sports shoe or sneakers can be best to slip in with the denims and capris.

Women's Wardrobe Basics

Pants and Shirts
A perfect fit formal trouser and a semi casual pant are the perfect formal wardrobe basics from women's clothing section. Again a white button down shirt, with extra broad cuffs is a must. Shirts with pinstripes or plain good quality fabrics in shades like baby pink, blue and any shade matching with trousers are a must. For that 'out-of-the-crowd' look, have a great looking business suit for women stitched from a professional. You have the option of adding a formal high waisted skirt or a trouser to this suit set.

Denims
Denims in basic shades and great looking cool tees to pair with these are the next wardrobe basics for women. Apart from denims, you need a stylish capri, an extra comfy cargo and ultra stylish denim shorts.

T-shirts and Tops
You can choose from a round neck, 'V' neck and collared t-shirts. You can also add a denim jacket to your closet which looks great on t-shirts. Funky tops in strapless, thin straps, tube tops, halter necks can also be added which you can put on anytime to wear a casual look.

Gowns
Gowns are something that might occupy more than one shelf in women's wardrobe. Gowns for various occasions like prom, parties, business events, wedding ceremonies, are must haves in every women's closet. You can have these in various patterns, necklines and fabrics.

Dresses
Dresses are among those truly feminine outfits and every woman must have a few in her closet. Dresses in knee length, tea length, full size and a short one need to be added. That short little black dress can't be missed out! A cool maxi dress and cute sundresses are the most graceful summer wardrobe basics for females. A wrap dress or sarong can also be considered to don a sexy look on special outings.

Outerwear
For women, a classic warm sweater that can be worn on any casual wear, a right fit jacket with right cuts in corduroy which can go on dresses and one for the pants is essential. A trench coat is timeless outerwear that you can get for yourself in a neutral color and thick fabric.

Accessories
For women there is a huge list of accessories which make up the wardrobe basics. A leather waist belt (narrow or broad) for formals and fabric belt for casuals is a must. A pointed toe dress shoe in stiletto pattern, semi-casual peep toe with medium heels, knee high boots, pair of sneakers in feminine shade and funky flip flops are the footwear basics for females. A killer clutch, classy purse and a perfect business bag are other wardrobe essentials. No need to mention the jewelery, hair accessories and fashionable sunglasses. Hat in jute or colors matching with dresses can add to your cool look.