consumer reporter http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for consumer reporter Copyright 2008 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 02:20:32 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/consumer+reporter Court Reporters And The Equipments They Use In The Court Of Law http://www.artwoo.com/article/court-reporters-and-the-equipments-they-use-in-the-court-of-law http://www.artwoo.com/article/court-reporters-and-the-equipments-they-use-in-the-court-of-law#comments Sat, 18 Aug 2007 15:35:00 +0000 stenograph corporationsilencercourt reporterscourt reportermount prospect illinois300shorthand typing http://www.artwoo.com/article/court-reporters-and-the-equipments-they-use-in-the-court-of-law s are a fascinating bunch. I always wonder how they stay under control despite all the things that happen around them in the court of law. As the parades of witnesses come and go, you can see them pound away or talk into the equipments that help them do their jobs.

It is obvious very few people pay attention or understand the equipments that help court reporters perform their jobs so efficiently. In this article, I examine these equipments.

The court reporter uses two primary equipments in the performance of his or her job. They are the Stenograph and the .

I will start out by talking about the stenograph.

The stenograph also known as stenotype is a specialized typewriter used by court reporters to do their jobs. It is designed to allow for . The keyboard is compact like that of a piano. The symbols on the keyboard are phrases or words. They are translated or transcribed in real-time to computers.

A good court reporter using a stenotype can type up to words per minute. It is this speed that allows the court reporter to capture all the things said in the court of law.

The number one manufacturer of the stenotype machine is the . The corporate headquarter is at Mount Prospect, Illinois. They manufacture manual or automated machines. Some of them are even wireless.

The second and last court reporter equipment I will cover is the Silencer. The silencer is a hand held mask that contains a microphone. The reporter uses this silencer for voice writing.

Using the voice-writing method, a court reporter speaks directly into the silencer. As the reporter repeats the testimony into the recorder, the mask on the silencer prevents the reporter from being heard during testimony. The silencer records everything that is said by judges, witnesses, attorneys, and other parties in the court. The silencer can even capture gestures and emotional reactions.

A leading manufacturer of silencers is the AudioScribe Corporation. They are located in Breaux Bridge, LA.

There you have it. If you were ever wondering about court reporters and their equipment, you don't have to wonder any more.

Note: You are free to reprint or republish this article. The only condition is that the Resource Box should be included and the links are live links. Copywrite Kenneth Echie. Kenneth is a writer for http://www.criminaljustice-schools-degrees.com. Get free scholarship and grant report and learn to become a Court Reporter at http://www.criminaljustice-schools-degrees.com/court-reporter.html. Other Website: http://www.extra-income-ideas.com ]]> Satellite Tv Systems: Not All Are Created Equal http://www.artwoo.com/article/satellite-tv-systems-not-all-are-created-equal http://www.artwoo.com/article/satellite-tv-systems-not-all-are-created-equal#comments Fri, 13 Jul 2007 10:00:01 +0000 satellite tv systemssatellite tv providersatellite tv systemconsumer reportswhich means thatconsumer reportconsumer reporter http://www.artwoo.com/article/satellite-tv-systems-not-all-are-created-equal satellite TV provider, you should pay special attention to what type of s they use. Different providers use different satellite TV systems and many people don't even think about that. One company's satellite TV system may be superior to another's, so you should definitely ask about their satellite TV systems. How, then, are you supposed to know which satellite TV systems are good and which aren't? The best way is to check with a s periodical or website.

Consumer Reports Are Unbiased

The point of consumer reports, whether they be in magazine or website form, are to inform you of the latest information and ratings on many products, ranging from automobiles to electronics to, pretty much anything. The best part of consumer reports is that the information is unbiased, whoever is testing the products has no brand preference whatsoever. They have a completely open mind going into the experiment with the various products and they write the reviews in an honest and straightforward manner, just as you would if you were trying out the products for the first time.

The Reports Are Thorough And Informative

That's why it's so imperative that you research the various satellite TV systems out there using consumer reports. The reports will let you know the latest information on the various satellite TV systems, as well as tell you the upsides and downsides to each one. More than likely, the price will be listed, as well as any other information the feels is necessary for the consumer to know. Then, the satellite TV systems will be rated using whatever ratings system that consumer report publication uses, usually with stars or points.

So, if you're searching for a satellite TV provider and you want to know which satellite TV systems are worth your time, pick up or log onto one of the many consumer report publications out there and conduct your satellite TV search the way smart consumers do it. After all, you don't want to have to go through the trouble of having your satellite TV connected only to find out that the satellite TV system they use is inferior to the company you were this close to going with. Educate yourself and shop smart, not only with satellite TV but with everything else, too. Simon Peters is the owner of http://on-satellite-tv.com, it is THE best source for advice on the subject of satellite TV, nothing to sell, just information . .. . ]]> Cosmetics Reviews: Pitfalls To Avoid When Reading Cosmetics Reviews http://www.artwoo.com/article/cosmetics-reviews-pitfalls-to-avoid-when-reading-cosmetics-reviews http://www.artwoo.com/article/cosmetics-reviews-pitfalls-to-avoid-when-reading-cosmetics-reviews#comments Mon, 19 Nov 2007 06:05:02 +0000 cosmeticsnatural skin colormagazinesever noticed thateyeshadow colorstore brandsconsumer reporter http://www.artwoo.com/article/cosmetics-reviews-pitfalls-to-avoid-when-reading-cosmetics-reviews Cosmetics reviews are everywhere these days, and it can be hard to tell the real reviews from the ones that the companies pay for. Have you in a lot of there will be a huge ad for a particular brand of lipstick a few pages after the editors recommend it? You've got to wonder if it's really worth the money to buy, or if the magazine felt the pressure of the advertising dollars the brand spends each month. Considering that the majority of magazines make their money from advertising (as opposed to subscription costs, which most people think is the case), it's totally feasible. So, what's a consumer to do?

In my opinion, the best cosmetics reviews come from friends who have tried the products. If you know of a make up artist, you can ask him or her as well. The thing is, if you go to a salon and ask about brand names, chances are the stylist will try to sell you on a brand that the salon carries. After all, most of them make a commission on the products that they sell. The same can be true of make up artists, especially if they work for a cosmetics line. A good thing to do is to check out new stories...sometimes on slow news days a reporter will try out different brands of mascara, from drug store to specialty , then give an objective review of her findings.

In many cases, despite what some magazines say, the drug store brand that costs $4 is just as good as the expensive designer line. In some cases the cheap stuff might even be better! It's just important to know that sometimes when it comes to cosmetics reviews, what you see is not always what you get. I suggest you act as your own and try out different brands until you find one that suits you best. After all, your friend's favorite might not look so good on your . Want to read tons of great cosmetics reviews? Visit the Makeup Forums at http://www.TheCosmeticsForum.com/ today. It's free to become a member so join today! ]]> Becoming a Reporter is Easy http://www.artwoo.com/article/becoming-a-reporter-is-easy http://www.artwoo.com/article/becoming-a-reporter-is-easy#comments Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:57:25 +0000 dry pavementbroken fencehobbies and craftsglorious jobunusual hobbiesmundane jobtraffic accidents http://www.artwoo.com/article/becoming-a-reporter-is-easy
When some people hear the word "reporter", they picture someone trotting in and out of a major news conglomerate and spilling the beans on an adulterous President, unveiling "Watergate", or changing into Superman in a phone booth. Reporting is not a . In fact, it's hard work. A reporter is defined as "a person who investigates and reports or edits news stories." That title brings it down to the common person doing a -- that will someday get them somewhere.

If you live in the city or suburbs, the chances are good that there is a reporter's job waiting on you less than 20 miles from your house.

Almost every local newspaper is hard up to find a sports reporter, and/or someone to cover PTA or political meetings, as they pertain to the local government. And if, by chance, there are no openings there, you can make your way into print by covering in the area and finding odd news.

For example, I once saw a man skiing. What made it a newsy article was that his skis had wheels on them, and he was skiing on in the middle of town! On another occasion I saw road equipment sitting in front of someone's bedroom window, bulldozer tracks across the yard, and a where it had entered. That was a story! On a third occasion, I saw a sheriff's car flip upside down as it tried to round a corner too fast. All of these things were news items that no newspaper would turn down.

In addition, there is always a place for articles on unusual . For example, while on vacation in the Rocky Mountains, I saw awesome statues that were made out of iron and wood. It blew my mind to think of a genius who lived in the boonies and sold intricate merchandise to tourists in his spare time. What a story that would have made. (Hubby wouldn't wait on me and it was a long walk home.)

The main thing you need to know about being a reporter is that most reporting is time-sensitive. If you report on a car accident, or PTA meetings, you have to work the story up that night and have it at the news office in the morning. (And, btw, call the newspaper ahead of time and ask them how they want pictures submitted. Digital pictures taken on a 35 mm camera are usually acceptable. Always submit pictures. The newspaper will pay you at least $5 per picture, and more often than not, a picture will get your story on the front page.) No, you won't get rich selling to small town newspapers, but that's how most people break into print their first time.

When you write for a newspaper, always have a notepad, pen, camera, and tape recorder in the back seat. Finding a reporter's job isn't that hard, but living up to the expectations of a reporter is.Click here to see the first fully mentored writing school on the Internet! http://www.creativewritinginstitute.com. Ms. Deb is the CEO and Founder of Creative Writing Institute. If you would like to receive The Writer's Choice newsletter, or a FREE analysis of your short story or article, write to deborahowen@cwinst.com for details.]]> Rumsfeld Appoints Self Retired General; Rushes http://www.artwoo.com/article/rumsfeld-appoints-self-retired-general-rushes http://www.artwoo.com/article/rumsfeld-appoints-self-retired-general-rushes#comments Fri, 28 Apr 2006 00:50:02 +0000 donald rumsfeldwar in iraqjoint chiefs of staffal qaedapost war periodsecretary of defenseclairvoyant http://www.artwoo.com/article/rumsfeld-appoints-self-retired-general-rushes Donald Rumsfeld, under fire from a platoon of retired generals who have called for his resignation, went on the offensive by appointing himself a retired general.

Accompanied by a currently employed general, who, as the head of The , is his usual sidekick, he stated, "As The , I think I should at least be on an equal footing with a retired general, and, after careful consideration, I decided to become one."

A reporter then asked, "As a retired general, what is your opinion on Donald Rumsfeld?"

"I think he's doing an outstanding job," Rumsfeld replied. "In fact, I think, while I've said no one is indispensable, there's always an exception to the rule."

"How about his handling of the ?" another reporter queried.

"What war in Iraq?" Rumsfeld countered. "The war in Iraq was over the day we pulled down Saddam Hussein's statue. What's going on now is the post-war recovery."

"There are some who say you underestimated the resources that would be required in the post-war period. Can you comment on that?"

"As a retired general, the post-war scenario is not my specialty. On the other hand, as The Secretary of Defense, I can say that, while I used all of my absolutely first-rate foresight, I am not . Therefore, I could not know beforehand how many Sunnis, who had it better under Saddam's tyranny, would rather destroy their own country than live in peace with the Shiite majority. Since I couldn't know that the two warring Muslim factions would destabilize their own country, I could not possibly anticipate how much stabilization we'd have to try to establish. Nor could I anticipate how many members of al-Qaeda would come rushing in and try to turn the self-destabilized country into the next frontier of their suicidal goal of establishing a pan-Arab medievalist Islamic tyranny."

"Would you change anything in hindsight?" another reporter asked.

"Of course, I would. Like everybody else, I do have clairvoyant hindsight. First, I would have made myself a retired general a long time ago, so I could have been the first one to stand up for myself, instead of taking all the potshots I've had to before I realized how to deflect them. Second, during the invasion, I would have dropped a ton of leaflets on Iraq that predisposed the population to peace."

"What kind of leaflets?" a reporter asked.

"Ones we would have, at that early date, been able to translate into their language with an Iraqi-English dictionary: Shiite + Sunni = Nice Peaceful Country. Shiite -- Sunni = Lots of Dead People."

"Do you think those leaflets would have made a difference?" a reporter asked.

"Of course. While no leaflet is indispensable, it would have helped these warring factions realize if you can't live in peace with each other, you can't do anything together except kill each other."

The final question came from a reporter, who asked, "Do you plan to retire?"

"You missed the point," Secretary Rumsfeld replied. "I already retired. How do you think I became I retired general."

"I mean, do you intend to retire as Secretary of State?"

"I think one retirement every decade or so is plenty, don't you?" Tom Attea, creator of http://Newslaugh.com, has had six shows produced Off-Broadway and has written comedy for TV. Critics have called his writing ""delightfully funny" and "witty" with "good, genuine laughs." ]]> How Consumer Reports Can Help You http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-consumer-reports-can-help-you http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-consumer-reports-can-help-you#comments Wed, 26 Sep 2007 03:20:01 +0000 consumer reportconsumer reportssatisfied with your purchasefuel efficiencyfellow customersquality consumervaluable tool http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-consumer-reports-can-help-you satisfied with your purchase, or you are not. It would be easier if you could predict what the outcome would be before you decide to buy the item in question. And while you cannot see the future, a that you can use is the .

are documents authored by actual consumers or by independent outside parties. The foundation of the consumer report is that they are honest and impartial, so that the consumer report that you read gives you an accurate review of the product in question. For example, let's say that you are interested in buying a car. By reading a variety of reports, you can get an honest feel for whether or not the vehicle that you want to buy is right for you. Consumer reports for cars can compare and review all aspects of a car, from to safety. So, if there's a particular aspect of a car that interests you, you will be able to research it via the consumer report.

Another reason why consumer reports can help you is because they can be written either by independent experts or by people such as yourself. A consumer generated consumer report is helpful because it is written by someone like you, for someone like you. You will easily be able to understand and appreciate the pros and cons that are listed in a consumer report that was written by . A consumer report that's been written by an independent expert will feature detailed information and expert analysis on general and specific product information.

If possible, you should always read as many consumer reports as you possibly can. The more information you are able to gather, the better informed you will be. A combination of consumer reports written by independent authorities and regular purchasers should give you an accurate review of the product your interested in. Consumer reports are like your secret weapon in determining products to purchase, and products to avoid. Pat Flouster knows consumer reports http://www.consumer-reports.ca and their importance. Read a free consumer report today and get the info you need. Consumer report, a valuable resource to use. ]]> Bush Vetoes Charcoal Grill Bill; Cites Carbon As Fundamental Component Of All Life http://www.artwoo.com/article/bush-vetoes-charcoal-grill-bill-cites-carbon-as-fundamental-component-of-all-life http://www.artwoo.com/article/bush-vetoes-charcoal-grill-bill-cites-carbon-as-fundamental-component-of-all-life#comments Tue, 08 Aug 2006 12:27:06 +0000 george bushcharcoal briquettescharcoal grillcoal burningveto powerfeetlot http://www.artwoo.com/article/bush-vetoes-charcoal-grill-bill-cites-carbon-as-fundamental-component-of-all-life George Bush exercised his and expunged the controversial Bill that the Senate and the House, growing wiser about the promise of science, bravely passed -- without, however, enough votes to override his ill-considered flick of the pen. The bill would have allowed federal funding for barbeque research. It was the first veto of his presidency.

Citing the role of carbon, not only in , but as the fundamental component of life, Mr. Bush stated, "You've got to respect carbon. Without it, none of us would be here." He then pointed to himself, and said, "For instance, I wouldn't be here. I owe my life to carbon."

Standing behind him were a number of effervescently grateful families who had been invited to participate in the photo op.

Mr. Bush, smiling broadly, picked up one of the children, and stated, "Same goes for all these families and their wonderful children. Without carbon, they wouldn't be here."

A reporter noted, "I believe that's correct, sir, since carbon is also found in oil, and I'm sure they drove or flew in."

"Oh, s---," Bush exclaimed. "Being the president is a harder than I thought. Don't tell me! In oil, too?"

"Yes, sir, and in coal."

"Well, I'm not a chemist," the President admitted. "So I'll have to look into that. If it's true, I'll have to come out against ."

"What about oil burning?" the reporter pressed.

"That's another question I'll have to ask the experts. We have a lot of those fellows back in the big derrick state. I'll do whatever's necessary. As you know, I have eight vetoes."

"Eight?" the reporter asked.

"Yes, and so far I only exercised one," the President said, and then volunteered, "I'll show you."

With that, he kicked off his shoes and pulled off his socks. Then, with a remarkably simian-like move, he kicked up his and pointed at them.

"See, I have five toes on each foot. That makes four spaces between them, or, if you count both feet, a total of eight spaces. Now, notice how the space between every two toes creates a V. Those are my vetoes. Count 'em. Eight. So I'm ready to do my sacred duty to protect carbon and all its creations." Tom Attea, humorist and creator of http://NewsLaugh.com, has had six shows produced Off-Broadway. Critics have called his writing "delightfully funny," "witty," with "great humor and ebullience" and "good, genuine laughs." ]]> Undercover Reporter: Is it Just About a Micro Video Camera Taped to Your Body? http://www.artwoo.com/article/undercover-reporter-is-it-just-about-a-micro-video-camera-taped-to-your-body http://www.artwoo.com/article/undercover-reporter-is-it-just-about-a-micro-video-camera-taped-to-your-body#comments Sun, 27 Jul 2008 17:08:18 +0000 micro video cameraspy gearundercover reporterinvestigative activitiesvast storerigorous demandsstore of knowledge http://www.artwoo.com/article/undercover-reporter-is-it-just-about-a-micro-video-camera-taped-to-your-body undercover reporter is simply someone who hides a and other bugs in his person, eavesdrop on conversations, and engage in voyeuristic activities, he actually is a very versatile professional.

Planning and Research Skills

You should be able to plan your moves to acquire the most valuable information in the least possible time and expense. What you see on movies and television is often unrealistic as not all the pertinent persons and places are on hand all the time. There is also the fact that footages from a micro video camera installed in the target's place of work and residence is not as easily accessed as movie discs in a video rental store!

Thus, research, research and more research is key to success. Since you cannot claim a monopoly on the world's of knowledge, you have to visit libraries and surf the Net to get preliminary information. It also pays to acquire knowledge of the needed, including the best micro video camera, for your actual investigation.

Enthusiasm, Initiative and Resourcefulness

The company or individual hiring your services as an undercover reporter will not tell you what to do and how to do your . What they will tell you are the written reports required, the time frame, the compensation package and expense accounts provided, and the evidence necessary. This means that you have to be a good writer and negotiator, too!

Your sense of initiative and resourcefulness will come in very handy. In effect, you are on your own in the field, which requires enthusiasm to sustain the of the job. Lest you ask what is so rigorous about sitting around videotaping somebody with your micro video camera, you need to try doing surveillance for hours on end, rain or shine, with a lying conscience to boot!

Technical Savvy and Knowledge

Unless the company or individual hiring you is flush with money, you need to know your way around spy gear as delicate (and as expensive, in some instances) as a micro video camera. Often, you will be required to receive and transmit footages to and from your micro video camera, which means that you should know how the thingamajig works!

Often, you will be the one strapping the video and audio bugs to your body. A fair knowledge of technical specifications, applications and maintenance of high-tech bugs will be to your advantage.

Supreme Self-Confidence and Self-Defense Skills

Last but definitely not least, you have to be supremely self-confident. You need to believe that you can do it, you can lie to other people, you can bail yourself out of trouble, and you can live to tell another tale!

You need not be James Bond himself. You only need to possess self-defense skills to avoid sticky situations; how about learning how to run as fast as Usain Bolt, maybe?

When you are looking for a more adventurous and more challenging job than your desk job now, you can always try your hand at being an undercover reporter. Not only will you get more excitement in your life (and hopefully, be part of the solution to the problems of this world), but you will also be paid doing them. How does 300-500 dollars sound to you, all expenses covered?Visit Video-Surveillance-Guide.com today for authoritative opinions on the perfect spy gear like a nanny camera or a wireless nanny camera. With a micro video camera such as these, you are set to become the best undercover reporter you can be!]]> Automotive Consumer Reports http://www.artwoo.com/article/automotive-consumer-reports http://www.artwoo.com/article/automotive-consumer-reports#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2007 04:15:02 +0000 consumer reportsconsumer reportbest betgas mileagecomprehendinformation gatheringpros and cons http://www.artwoo.com/article/automotive-consumer-reports information gathering procedures can help you make an informed decision on the car you wish to buy. You want to do everything possible to prevent yourself from spending your hard-earned dollars on a lemon of an automobile. Because of your diligence to knowledge, there are many routes available for you to choose to get the information you need. You can ask people about the car in question, for example. However, most people, when they are looking for a car to buy, use s to get the information they need.

Consumer reports are valuable sources of automotive purchasing information. A detailed consumer report can give you honest and accurate reviews on such important vehicular information such as , braking ability, steering control and traction. Unless you are an automotive expert, or have the capacity to test out a wide range of vehicles that you are interested in buying, the consumer report is your to get the unfiltered and precise information that you need to have.

Another reason why consumer reports are helpful is because they are often written by trusted third party sources. In some cases, consumer reports are actually created by people who have purchased and driven the car in question. This is of prime benefit because it gives you your own personal perspective on the car and its attributes. A customer generated consumer report is written by someone like yourself, so that someone like yourself can easily read, follow and it. Layman information is of absolute importance when it comes to reading an automotive consumer report.

Some consumer reports are written by automotive or vehicular experts. These are people who understand detailed aspects of the car that you're interested in. They are able to break down the of the car in great length and present the information in an easy to read consumer report. Pat Flouster reviews automotive consumer reports. Find a free consumer report on your car today! Read a http://www.consumer-reports.ca before you buy your car. ]]> Upstart Palestinian Group Urges Israel To Keep Hamas Government; They Don't Want It Anymore http://www.artwoo.com/article/upstart-palestinian-group-urges-israel-to-keep-hamas-government-they-dont-want-it-anymore http://www.artwoo.com/article/upstart-palestinian-group-urges-israel-to-keep-hamas-government-they-dont-want-it-anymore#comments Sat, 22 Jul 2006 14:27:16 +0000 israelgaza stripadmittedlyhamasisraeli soldierupstart groupwest bank http://www.artwoo.com/article/upstart-palestinian-group-urges-israel-to-keep-hamas-government-they-dont-want-it-anymore admittedly small of Palestinians, comparing the quality of their governance with the orderly procedures in , have decided the best thing that can happen to them is to give up on their own government.

As a result, they are asking Israel to keep the members of the government the Israelis arrested in response to the kidnapping of an by militants.

Even more surprisingly, they are advocating a one-state solution, with the and volunteering to become part of Israel.

To let their voices be heard, they took to the streets, waving banners that read, "Palestine, No; Israel, Yes!"; "I Almost Speak Hebrew Already"; and "Let's Make A Deal."

Israel reacted with caution to the unexpected development, with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert saying, "Let them return our soldier; then maybe we can talk."

When a reporter pointed out that if Gaza and the West Bank became part of Israel, the soldier would technically already be in Israel, Olmert replied, "Yes, but we want him back in his own home, and we want him there alive. Then we can do a headcount."

Asked what he meant by a headcount, he said, "As you know, we insist that Israel have a Jewish majority. It's only fair that, in the entire Middle East, there should be at least one country that does. After all, our ancestors were here, too, and that's why we set up the country. So we have to determine with that many more Palestinians in Israel, do we have a Jewish majority? Right now, I'd say no way, Hosni."

The reporter asked, "Then the latest Palestinian proposal Israel to become a one-state solution would not be acceptable to you?"

"I don't see how, unless they agreed to limit procreation for a few decades while the Israelis agreed to step on the gas. Then maybe we could work something out."

"Such as?"

"Oh, maybe they could have our government without voting rights. You must remember that one of the inconvenient things about having a Palestinian majority that could vote is that I could be replaced by a Palestinian. We can't have that. But I would like to see both Israelis and Palestinians happy."

"Happy? Wow, that's asking a lot, isn't it?" the reporter commented. "Has that condition ever prevailed in the Middle East?"

"Not in my lifetime, but I'm an idealist," Olmert replied. "To tell the truth, we should all only be happy in this region. It would be the greatest thing since sliced Challah bread."

Then his mind wandered back, searching for a time when people in the Middle East might have been happy. "You know, happiness for everyone in this region would be almost as great as the wonderful day the burning bush lit up and God waved Moses over to give him the Ten Commandments. By the way, did you ever think how extraordinary it is that the finger of God came out of the bush and carved the Commandments in stone just for Moses?"

"Well," the reporter said, considering the matter, "let's just say I never had a bush light up to give me a message."

"Oh, I don't know many people who have. But, what's even more extraordinary is, when he came down and saw the Israelites worshipping the golden calf, he threw the stone tablets down and broke them. But we still have them."

"Yes, we do. What do you think he did, pieced them back together again?"

"Maybe. But I like to imagine a more dramatic sequel. What if he went back up, apologized to the bush, and asked for another copy?"

"Oh, well, that's interesting."

"Yes," the prime minister went on, "And, to prove the generosity of God, he got it! To me the second copy is as important to me as the Christian Second Coming. Well, so much for Biblical chitchat. I must get back to governing Israel, regardless of whether it will only be to govern what we consider the current state of Israel or we decide the Palestinians can have our government, too." Tom Attea, humorist and creator of http://NewsLaugh.com, has had six shows produced Off-Broadway and has written comedy for TV. Critics have called his writing ""delightfully funny" and "witty" with "good, genuine laughs." ]]> How To Get The Press On Your Side http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-get-the-press-on-your-side http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-get-the-press-on-your-side#comments Thu, 04 Oct 2007 16:29:59 +0000 free publicityvoracious appetiteeditorsthis means thatlast minute newssmall business ownerwheedle http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-get-the-press-on-your-side editors are over worked, and have a . any can take advantage of , two ways. First, they can obtain the first level of free publicity, second, they can slant their reports and press releases so editors will want to publish their articles.

Free press is equal to hundreds of thousands worth of advertising, and levels the playing field for a work at home business. There is only one secret to obtaining free publicity: Make Life Easier for Your Editorial Allies

Another aspect of thinking like an editor is presenting yourself as the kind of person editors want to deal with. In any oral or written communication with a media outlet, you should be friendly and approachable, articulate and concise.

Be willing to answer reporters' questions, even if you have to research the answers and get back to them. (Don't be afraid to say you don't know but can find out, and never give an answer you're not sure is accurate.) If you're running an event or a tourist attraction, let the press in for free to cover it. Finally, know the deadlines and publication schedules of the media you deal with, and understand their importance.

A deadline is the day and time a reporter has to get a story in if it's going to be printed or broadcast in the next edition. Except for very hot last-minute news, those deadlines may as well be written in stone.

Get your stuff in on time and don't try to a journalist into bending a deadline for you--the bad reputation you will get among the press is a far worse disease than being left out once. And don't forget that a reporter needs some time to work with your material, and is balancing your story against many others.

Typically, morning daily newspapers close the edition around 10 p.m., afternoon papers at around 11 a.m., weeklies two to four days before publication. Some sections may close earlier than others.

A large metropolitan Sunday newspaper may close the magazine, comics, arts, living, and classified sections as early as Monday, and have them already printed and collated as early as the previous Thursday. This frees up the presses for news and sports sections that get printed Saturday night. TV stations tend to like to do the camera work at least two to four hours before the newscast.

Give daily and broadcast journalists a minimum of a couple of hours before their deadline to write their story-- several days if you're dealing with weeklies, and even longer for monthlies--and don't call any reporter or editor right at deadline, when s/he's frantically trying to get all the stories out.

Feature departments, including community calendars or letters to the editor, may have a deadline that applies to you, rather than the reporter. In my area, the newsweekly and the most popular commercial radio station both want calendar notices two to three weeks ahead! Again, respect the deadline and be on time.

About the Author: Mark Walters is a third generation entrepreneur and author. He offers free training and investing videos designed to speed you towards financial independence at http://www.cashflowinstitute.com Mark Walters is a third generation entrepreneur and author. He offers free training and investing videos designed to speed you towards financial independence at http://www.cashflowinstitute.com ]]> Efficacy Of Treadmill Consumer Reviews http://www.artwoo.com/article/efficacy-of-treadmill-consumer-reviews http://www.artwoo.com/article/efficacy-of-treadmill-consumer-reviews#comments Sat, 28 Oct 2006 14:27:07 +0000 treadmillconsumer reviewssmooth treadmillsprevention magazineepinionsconsumer guideapprehensive http://www.artwoo.com/article/efficacy-of-treadmill-consumer-reviews treadmills happen to be very much of durability and comfortability of the treadmills. They often tend to be skeptical about the information available on quality of a model that has been disseminated by manufacturer. So they don't tend to completely rely on manufacturer's details on workability and features. In such a situation what comes handy to these folks is on treadmills. These consumer reviews happen to be based on personal experiences of folks with one particular brand of treadmill.

If you are looking for consumer reviews on treadmills you can visit various online treadmill guides. These guides always keep space for consumer reviews. Once you become satisfied by going through these reviews you can zoom in on your kind of treadmill.

These reviews often happen to give critical insight into treadmill models. These critical appraisals about treadmills that are free of falsifications and exaggerations, help prepare your mind about various models and brands.

One of the renowned health magazines in US, regularly carries consumer reviews on treadmills. Seeing credibility of magazine you can rely upon these reviews.

An on0line site Advanced Fitness has also earned repute for offering impartial consumer reviews on treadmill brands although the site happens to be owned by manufacturers of one brand named . Another site .com" >http://Epinions.com comes with treadmill consumer analysis on various brands. In order to read more reviews by consumers you can log on to Runner's World treadmill . In fact most of the treadmill buyers guide offer consumer reviews.

These reviews talk in details about key features including motor efficiency, cushioning and speed. These reviews accord separate ratings to different features of a treadmill model. An interesting feature of consumer reviews happens to be noise levels with treadmill models.

A person who is quite unfamiliar with treadmills would know a great deal about treadmills after going through two to three of such reviews. By going through consumer reviews you get to know about leading brands and criteria for choosing a treadmill.

If these reviews are offered by trainers and consumers who have a reputation in fitness world it would greatly influence buyer's decision.

So if you happen to be one looking for a treadmill, keep track of consumer reviews to strike a better deal. To get more information on treadmill, top treadmills and treadmill parts visit http://www.treadmill-online.com/home/ ]]> You Are Big Brother http://www.artwoo.com/article/you-are-big-brother http://www.artwoo.com/article/you-are-big-brother#comments Thu, 10 May 2007 21:20:00 +0000 digital video camerasdigital video camcordercell phoneominouslyhurricane katrinacell phonestransmogrify http://www.artwoo.com/article/you-are-big-brother ominously described a society in which Big Brother is always watching you. It may have taken a few decades after 1984, but today, it does appear that no matter where you go or what you do, you at least run the risk of being watched and viewed. And, depending on what you're actually doing, watched and viewed can easily into caught and exposed.

It's no secret that we live in a 24 hour world now. With technology making communication such a simple and instant affair, we can talk to anyone at anytime, regardless of wherever they live or whatever time zone they dwell in. And because we are living in a state where there is a constant flow of information and news, people are now becoming aware that what you do today may soon be plastered all over the internet within a matter of hours.

Cellular phones, primarily were designed to make communication mobile and instant. Rather than needing to get a quarter, than locate a pay phone to make a call, you could just pull out your and dial instantly. But, soon became a tool used to report, rather than just to talk. Now, of course, if you have a cell phone and you see someone in distress and who needs assistance, you should definitely make that call. But, now there are eyewitness reports coming from cell phone callers of the most trivial things. Again, is that really necessary?

Add to that fact that cell phones, and most portable electronic devices are now equipped with . Today, everyone can be a roving eyewitness reporter and get live, first-hand footage of any event just by turning on the cell phone and hitting the record button. From disasters like to the Michael Richards meltdown, events, news and things that aren't so newsworthy were being caught and recorded on video cameras that are popping up just about everywhere.

And once it's on a , the next logical step for it to go to will be online and on the internet. The internet is now the world's news network, and anyone who uploads a video or file onto the web is now a reporter. Everyone is watching everyone else, and everyone can't wait to tell everyone else what everyone else is doing. That is the essence of our completely connected technological world. Orion Pax is interested in how technology has changed society. For great deals on refurbished electronics, please visit http://www.millennium3000.com ]]> Domain Name Register Tips And Information http://www.artwoo.com/article/domain-name-register-tips-and-information http://www.artwoo.com/article/domain-name-register-tips-and-information#comments Sun, 16 Jul 2006 00:27:08 +0000 domain name registrationterm domain namedomain name systemdomain name registerdomain name registrarsdomain registrationmail http://www.artwoo.com/article/domain-name-register-tips-and-information domain name register" we are basically dealing of two things. On one hand, the register is another term that is often applied for , and on the other hand, the domain name register may refer to a certain company which provides a , such as those .

So in this article, I will cover in general those two areas for identifying the rules for the domain name register. It is a fact that presenting both those ideas will greatly help in better understanding of the matter.

So, the domain name register is then a process through which a domain name consumer registers a domain name with a domain name registrar company. The process for the domain name register essentially comprises selecting a domain name that the domain name consumer desires. It is then noted that the purpose for the domain name register is to make sure that someone else has not already taken the domain name and through collecting information about the consumer.

The data collected is consist of the name, address, phone number, e- and occasionally a few other information like the fax number. Speaking of the data collection of the domain name register, it is interesting to learn that the above mentioned data is collected for the domain name consumer, the Administrative contact, the billing contact, and the technical contact.

Moreover, in the domain name register, each of those mentioned contacts has the capability to perform several moves relating to the domain name, however, the consumer is the ultimate holder. The administrative contact then has almost completely the same willpower as of the consumer. Why? Perhaps it is for the reason that the consumer is always a corporation and the Administrative contact is the person within the corporation who is also responsible for the domain name.

Also compiled in the domain name register is the or DNS which the domain name consumer would like to apply. Generally, the DNS for the domain name register is consists of a principal and secondary name server that lets the internet traffic know about where the internet host for the domain name can be found. Along with this, in the domain name register, the DNS data is given by all web hosts and then can be taken by simply asking those who process the domain name register for the DNS that the consumer greatly needs to connect the domain name to their domain name servers. So such is the matters involved in the domain name register. Who Else Wants To Get Their Hands On My Closely-Guarded BILLION-DOLLAR Collection Of 73 Winning Advertisements and Sales Letters- FOR FREE! Visit http://www.billiondollarads.com Active hyperlink must stay with the article. ]]> Just Five Minutes Longer - Spirituality Information http://www.artwoo.com/article/just-five-minutes-longer-spirituality-information http://www.artwoo.com/article/just-five-minutes-longer-spirituality-information#comments Fri, 04 May 2007 08:29:59 +0000 napoleon bonaparteemperor napoleonfrench napoleonbattle of waterloofive minutesreportersproverbial http://www.artwoo.com/article/just-five-minutes-longer-spirituality-information battle of Waterloo. Poems have been written and songs have been composed detailing every conceivable aspect about it. The English tell it one way and the French share it from a slightly different point of view.

History and legend has it that after 's army was defeated and the Duke of Wellington prevailed over the French, Napoleon was taken away and imprisoned. One day a group of newspaper came to visit. They had obtained permission to hold an interview with the famous French general, Napoleon Bonaparte.

Even though Napoleon was in prison, he carried himself with dignity and looked with piercing eyes at the group of reporters gathered there before him. Questions were asked and answers given. The reporters wrote every word down. This would, indeed, be good reading. They would boast to their children and grandchildren how they stood before the great general on that long ago day.

Suddenly, from the back of the room, a voice, somewhat more gentle than the others was heard above the din. "Mon general," the reporter said, "Tell me why the English won at Waterloo. Did they have a superior army?"

"No!" replied Napoleon.

"Well, did they have better weapons?" asked another reporter.

"No!" was the answer again.

Then the first reporter asked again, "Why then, Mr. General, did the English win?"

Napoleon's eyes slowly swept across the room. The silence was so deep that it was almost deafening. You could have heard the pin drop. Then he replied, "The English fought longer."

>From the mouth of the great general himself came the answer, "The English fought five minutes longer". Many times, five minutes longer is all that it takes. Times have changed from the days of the . But many things still remain the same.

Sometimes victory is just a few minutes away. Yes, I know, we all go through terrible times. In today's world many of us are faced with crisis after crisis. For most, there is never enough money, no jobs, poor relationships, ill health and the list could go on and on. Of course, there are good times, too, but the hard times usually block our vision of the good times.

When things get really bad, we turn this way and that looking for some help or at least some hope to keep on keeping on. Anything will do--a kind word from a friend, a paragraph from a good book, a stray piece of music from the radio, even a Hollywood movie.

Some people will be there for you, others will turn and run from you, fearing for their own well-being. Still others may throw you a crumb of money, or food and hope you won't ask for more. Be grateful. They do as they see fit to do at the moment. Your job is to just keep on keeping on.

When you are down in the arena and the dust is in your mouth and you can hear the screaming of the crowd, remember, "The English fought five minutes longer." Sometimes it's so bad that one day at a time is too long. So go one hour at a time. And if that's too long, then how about five minutes at a time?

Success is sometimes just yards or minutes away. There are times when the last few yards may seem like miles and the last few minutes may appear to be hours. But if you keep on keeping on, if you do not let hope die, if you have faith in the goodness of the universe and the Force that created us, you will win in the end.

Why did Napoleon lose to the English at the battle of Waterloo? The English simply fought five minutes longer. Lecturer, entrepreneur and MBA business consultant, John Harricharan is the author of the award-winning book, "When You Can Walk on Water, Take the Boat." For more information, visit: http://www.spiritual-simplicity.com http://www.vish-writer.com ]]> Consumer Credit Counseling http://www.artwoo.com/article/consumer-credit-counseling http://www.artwoo.com/article/consumer-credit-counseling#comments Wed, 12 Jul 2006 10:27:09 +0000 consumer credit counselingconsumer credit counseling servicesconsumer credit counseling servicecredit counseling agencycredit card counselingcredit card debtscredit card interest http://www.artwoo.com/article/consumer-credit-counseling Consumer credit counseling is a big service field in the United States. It is a common problem for many persons in the United States to face a potential credit card debt. To show these persons the right way to act these services are in the scenario.

Every year, more than one million persons in the United States visit credit counselors or credit counseling agencies. They want help to get rid of their and regain financial control. But still s is a mystery to many; they do not know their working processes and the services which you should get from them when you hire them.

First and foremost thing that you should know is that consumer credit counseling services do not work for you. They work for the lenders. This means that they might have a relationship that will influence their advice. They will suggest loans from a specific lender as they probably get a commission from it.

Here we give you some hints about the working method of consumer credit counseling.

Suppose you visit a consumer credit counseling to get rid of your problem. They will convince the lender to decrease your interest rate- and yes, of course this is good. But the bad news is that you are still paying 90% of monthly payment to combat with .

Here are some questions you should ask to your consumer credit counseling service agency.

* The first question you should ask is a money matter, meaning - how much will they charge you for their service. Many consumer credit counseling services even charge more than $100, which will not go to any of your creditors. So be aware and ask your first question about their fees.

* Confirm that the consumer credit service you are to join is registered with a financial institution or not. Most of them don't have any qualification to work with credit problems.

* Enquire about the services offered at your consumer . Avoid companies which offer you a quick solution to your credit problems.

* Before joining any consumer credit counseling service, read testimonials and reviews of agencies previous or current clients. This step will surely help you to choose the right consumer credit counseling agency. Most of the consumer credit counseling agencies have their official website, where you can find testimonials. If any friend of yours faced any financial problem and ever visited any consumer credit counseling service, don't hesitate to ask them. As they are experienced, they will help and guide you the right way.

* Be sure that the agency you are going to is registered as BBB, Better Business Bureau, which is a quality sign.

With diligence, patience, time and proper credit counseling you can become debt free. Keith George always writes about valuable news and reviews. A related resource is http://ourconsumer-credit-counseling.info/ Further information can be found at http://the-new-economy.info/ ]]> Consumer Credit Counseling In Austin, Texas http://www.artwoo.com/article/consumer-credit-counseling-in-austin-texas http://www.artwoo.com/article/consumer-credit-counseling-in-austin-texas#comments Sat, 10 Nov 2007 12:29:59 +0000 consumer credit counselingcredit counseling servicesconsumer credit counseling serviceswhich means thatpersonal loansfinancial assistance servicescredit score http://www.artwoo.com/article/consumer-credit-counseling-in-austin-texas Consumer credit counseling in Austin, Texas is fundamentally little different from in any other city or state, expect that these credit counseling companies are designed to meet the needs of people living specifically in Austin and its surrounding cities. Austin is the fourth largest city in Texas and is the capitol of this great southern state.

As with many credit counseling companies, consumer credit counseling in Austin offers some free or low cost assistance for your credit issues. Credit problems can be caused by debt, late payments, no payments, or several other core reasons. Consumer credit counseling in Austin is available to help you take that first step to financial freedom.



What is Consumer Credit and Debt?

To understand what consumer credit counseling in Austin is all about, you must first understand what consumer credit is and the debt that can come with it. Consumer debt is incurred when you have spent more money than you can afford on products that will not grow in value. Generally, consumer debt includes things like credit card debt, monthly bills that have not been paid, and .

This definition can be expanded to include additional products such as home loans, mortgages, and car financing that you are not able to pay and have built up into debt. All these things negatively affect your , any debt you have will cause your credit score to drop. This is when consumer credit counseling Austin becomes a great option.

What is Consumer Credit Counseling?

Now that you have some understanding of consumer credit and debt that accompanies it, the services offered by consumer credit counseling in Austin will be more apparent. If you are in serious debt, which automatically means that your credit has been affected, it is best to seek financial assistance. This assistance could come in many different forms. Some consumer in Austin come through phone sessions, help through the Internet, or face-to-face meetings. No matter how you receive financial counseling, generally you will be taught the same things.

The first thing that these counseling services in Austin will teach you is how to assess all your finances. This includes calculating how much money you are making monthly and comparing that to how much you are spending. If you are spending more than you earn, you are probably already in debt. If so, that leads to the next process you will learn, which is the discipline of budgeting.

Budgeting is a crucial part of debt management, and any consumer credit counseling company in Austin will teach you how to budget properly. These financial counselors will also offer you the best options for reducing your debt and repairing your consumer credit. That is the benefit of seeking financial assistance, so you can rise above your credit and debt problems.

So, if you live in Austin, Texas and you are experiencing financial problems, you can seek the help of consumer credit counseling in Austin and receive the tools and professional knowledge to help you manage your debt effectively. For great debt counseling information, please visit http://www.debt-counseling-assistance.com, a popular web site providing insights on how to address your debt needs, such as with free services =96 http://www.debt-counseling-assistance.com/free_consumer_credit_counseling_s= ervice.shtml. ]]> Publicity Electricity: How To Plug Your Business Into The Media? http://www.artwoo.com/article/publicity-electricity-how-to-plug-your-business-into-the-media http://www.artwoo.com/article/publicity-electricity-how-to-plug-your-business-into-the-media#comments Wed, 20 Jun 2007 14:14:54 +0000 publicity campaignsreceived publicitypublicity campaignfree publicityelectricity generatormedia outletsnewspapers tv http://www.artwoo.com/article/publicity-electricity-how-to-plug-your-business-into-the-media electricity generator is and does, but when it comes to getting media exposure for your business, how good is your "publicity generator?" If you think about it, there are a lot of similarities between the two. Whether it's your business' electricity generator or its publicity generator that fails =85either way you will be left in the dark. The key to "seeing the light" is knowing how to generate your own "publicity electricity" and plugging yourself into multiple outlets =96 that is.

Whether it's magazines, newspapers, TV, radio or the increasingly popular online news outlets, media sources all over the nation are constantly in search of stories from small and large businesses. EVERY business in the world has at least some element of it that is newsworthy. It just requires you to fire up that publicity generator and shine some light on it for the media to see.

WHERE DOES "PUBLICITY ELECTRICITY" COME FROM?

There are a number of publicity angles, but the most well received s I have ever managed involved "problem/solution" businesses or products. Media outlets, especially trade specific ones, will often profile businesses or products that are uniquely solving a problem in a respective industry. It helps to present the editor with the problem, then provide some brief research or statistics =96 not sales or ad text, just facts =96 and show how your business/product can help solve the problem. Case studies work great. Show an editor or reporter how your business positively affected one of your clients and how it can provide similar benefits to others. This may also help get some for your client as well.

Other great "newspegs" are novelty or human-interest elements. If your business has a product or service that is truly unique, unprecedented or cutting-edge, that lends itself very strongly to an effective publicity campaign. A "newspeg" gives the editor/reporter/producer the reason to run your story as opposed to the hundreds, if not thousands of other story ideas that he/she sees each week. To say that you have a new "widget" is not enough. What is different about this widget? What implications does the business/product have and how would it affect the industry or consumer market? And finally, and most times overlooked, is there an intriguing human-interest story involved? Where did the idea come from? Did anything interesting happen during the business/product development stage? Or do the people "behind the scenes" of the business have interesting story to tell? All of these newspegs are potential publicity generators for you and your business.

PLUGGING IT IN.

Now that you have your viable publicity generating prongs, how do you find the media outlets in which to plug them? Conduct meticulous media market research to find those outlets applicable to your campaign. In my extensive research for my clients, I find media outlets whose editorial profiles match the client's business/product profile and pitch accordingly. You or your staff can do the media research at a local library or you can find a PR specialist or agency that can help you. Another great way is to use editorial calendars of media outlets and plug yourself into those opportunities. If you find that a magazine or newspaper is planning an upcoming feature on Innovative New Office Products, prepare your media kit for your "new widget" and pitch the appropriate editor.

One bit of advice -- "don't expect exclusive and extensive." Very few businesses or products (with the exception of publicly traded ones) get multi-page stories written exclusively about them. Although that can certainly happen, most mentions are in the context of a themed story or article, but can generate very strong responses.

I'm sure you'll find that once you generate your best "publicity electricity" -- you will be "shocked" at the interest you can generate. Todd Brabender is the President of Spread The News Public Relations, Inc. His business specializes in generating media exposure and publicity for innovative products, businesses, experts and webistes. http://www.spreadthenewspr.com todd@spreadthenewspr.com (785) 842-8909 ]]> A Look At Incentive And Rebates Programs http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-look-at-incentive-and-rebates-programs http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-look-at-incentive-and-rebates-programs#comments Mon, 05 Mar 2007 08:27:12 +0000 mailrebatesincentiveconsumersnecessarilymoneypros and cons http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-look-at-incentive-and-rebates-programs incentive and programs that can be offered by a business that would more realistically attract the consumer to the product or good that is offered by a manufacturer. Still, some and businesses may wonder what the costs are of having such programs and what the return is on these investments. No one wants to lose , not the manufacturer or the individual consumer, and so it will be very important that the incentive and rebates programs are legitimate and actually effective for everyone involved. They should not cause the business to lose money, but neither should they scam the consumer out of money either. Because of this, it will be very important that businesses thoroughly research their different options when it comes to these categories and that consumers make sure that they understand the of different programs that might be offered to them by the manufacturers.



There are almost unlimited forms of incentive and rebates programs. Some of the programs are instantaneous and others are ones which will take a period of time to complete. As a result, the benefits of each option need to be weighed carefully in order to come up with the right choice for the individual business and the individual consumer as well. What many businesses will do is offer both an instant savings and a in rebate. This ensures that the consumer will get one benefit, but not another. In many instances, consumers are looking for instant savings. These are more convenient and do not necessitate any work on the part of the consumer. On the other hand, programs that take time to process may not be acted on either initially or at all since they require work and time and the individual consumer may convince themselves that the investment was still worth it since they were able to get the instant savings.



Incentive and rebates programs that take place over time may not be as worthwhile for the consumer, but they work out better for the company in some instances. Since they are offering the program, they look like a considerate and beneficial company in which the consumer can get involved with in a business manner. However, if the individual consumer does not put in the necessary amount of work, they do not actually receive the reward, since there are stipulations in place as to what needs to be acted upon in order to get these rewards. This is better for the company since they do not lose as much money. Additionally, this works to illustrate again why instant and time sensitive rewards will be offered to consumers and why they are so successful and mutually beneficial for everyone that is involved in the process of consumerism. Mario Churchill is a freelance author and has written over 200 articles on various subjects. For more information checkout http://www.travelvacationvouchers.com and http://www.salesincentivesblog.com. ]]> Utah Offers Vaccine Of Serenity For Bird Flu http://www.artwoo.com/article/utah-offers-vaccine-of-serenity-for-bird-flu http://www.artwoo.com/article/utah-offers-vaccine-of-serenity-for-bird-flu#comments Thu, 20 Apr 2006 16:50:05 +0000 utah residentsbird fluutah populationutah governoravian influenzaksl tvrolfs http://www.artwoo.com/article/utah-offers-vaccine-of-serenity-for-bird-flu Rolfs, injected his entire state with a heavy dose of complacency and told them not to worry about .

He said, " means bird influenza. It's a problem for birds right now in other parts of the world, and it is a problem for birds there." He was persuading KSL-TV reporter Shelley Osterloh that there was nothing to worry about in Utah. In fact, he told her "Utah has other health threats we should be concerned about." You can read Rolfs comments at http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148andsid=185817

Rolfs in effect sedated the entire .

Nevermind that former , Mike Leavitt, and now Human Health Secretary, recently came to Utah and said it's time to get prepared for what could be the most devastating pandemic in our history.

Never mind that Dr. Robert Webster -- the scientist who discovered H5N1 -- has called avian influenza the "most frightening virus" he has ever seen.

Never mind that the CDC, the WHO, and scientists worldwide are trying desperately to find a solution to save whole nations.

One can almost visualize Osterloh addressing a gathered crowd of Roman citizens in 165 B.C. when the Antonine Plague was about to begin killing 5,000 Romans a day. "Do not fear, my fellow Romans. Harken unto me...these rumors of a plague are but whispers in the wind. Go about your business. I have spoken with Rome's greatest physician and he says Rome will never fall to plague."

Rolfs wants to forget about bird flu and worry about something else, like pertussis. Reporter Osterloh abandons her objectivity and sidles up to Rolfs and proudly agrees that "The bird flu isn't in the USA." The inference is that Utah residents shouldn't worry. Not one bit. How could it possibly get over the mighty Wasatch mountains and hurt us? Well, Ms. Osterloh, I guess we should wait until it takes wing on the thousands of Utah seagulls and one of them drops a gift on your shoulder before Utah residents should take action.

This false sense of well-being spouted by Rolfs may soon invade other states, other epidemiologists. Be wary of this state-sponsored vaccine of serenity. It's a vaccine your local government wants you to take so you won't worry so much. But it could kill you. Mr. Hart is the author of "Killer Bird Flu...Get Ready Now," and a U.S. retailer of NanoMasks, the only mask treated with a viricide that kills pathogens on contact. Learn more at http://www.buynanomask.com.. ]]>