Top LinkedIn Groups for Computer Science Students
Computer science is one of the emerging fields that is attracting thousands of college students these days. It’s a wide field that involves the study of mathematics to solve computational problems, computer theory and much more. And since computers are the future of nearly every industry, computer science is one of the most stable fields to enter. Combine that with LinkedIn, which is basically a website where professionals in various fields can connect with each other and network, and there are many possibilities for finding jobs. You can also join discussion groups and interact with other members through some of the following groups to help launch or advance your career for success.

Java Developers
http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Java-Developers-70526?gid=70526&trk=skills
If you are interested in working in Java as a computer scientist or programmer, the Java Developers LinkedIn group has many ways to connect and network with others in this field. You can look for job postings, connect with potential employers and have discussions in the forum with others in the field with similar interests.

Cloud Computing
http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Cloud-Computing-61513?gid=61513&trk=skills
Do you know about the latest developments in the cloud computing field? This is one of the leading trends in computer science and you can learn more about it or discuss various ideas with others by joining this LinkedIn group and connecting with others who want to discuss the latest innovations.

Open Source
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=43875&trk=skills
Software professionals will appreciate the opportunities for discussion in this LinkedIn group for computer science students. Whether you are working with Drupal, Apache, MySQL, X-Cart or any of the other open source technologies today, you can connect with others and discuss the recent innovations in these and other programs.

Linux Expert
http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Linux-Expert-49301?itemaction=mclk&anetid=49301&impid=49301-43875&pgkey=anet_about&actpref=anet_about-gbm&trk=anet_about-gbm-group&goback=%2Eanb_43875_*2_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1
If you are a Linux expert or if you prefer this over any other open source program, this is the LinkedIn group for you. You can ask questions of other members of the group or answer questions from other members as well as join discussion groups and make yourself visible to potential employers in the group.

PHP Developers
http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Php-developers-42140?home=&gid=42140&trk=anet_ug_hm&goback=%2Eanb_43875_*2_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1
Are you looking for others who are PHP developers? This LinkedIn group for computer science students can help you find them. Join in the forums to discuss ideas or look for employers who need the various skills that you have to offer.

End to End Web Developers
http://www.linkedin.com/groups/End-End-Web-Developers-2204708?itemaction=mclk&anetid=2204708&impid=2204708-43875&pgkey=anet_about&actpref=anet_about-gbm&trk=anet_about-gbm-group&goback=%2Eanb_43875_*2_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1
On this popular LinkedIn group for computer science students, you can read articles and tips from others in the industry. You can read about how to search for potential employers, the latest developments in the End to End Web Development field and much more.

European Association for Theoretical Computer Science
http://www.linkedin.com/groupsDirectory?itemaction=mclk&anetid=3412855&impid=3412855-3384863&pgkey=anet_about&actpref=anet_about-gbm&trk=anet_about-gbm-group&goback=%2Eanb_3384863_*2_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1
The European Association for Theoretical Computer Science, or EATCS, was founded in 1972 as an international group designed for computer scientists and students in this field. The LinkedIn group for this organization lets members exchange ideas and connect with each other in forums and discussion groups. It also makes members more visible to potential employers in this particular field.

Framework Programme Seven (FP7)
http://www.linkedin.com/groupsDirectory?itemaction=mclk&anetid=164166&impid=164166-3384863&pgkey=anet_about&actpref=anet_about-gbm&trk=anet_about-gbm-group&goback=%2Eanb_3384863_*2_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1
The FP7 network was designed to create an active connection between people who are interested in this field of computer science. Many of the LinkedIn members of this group are interested in the research, development and emerging technologies in the FP7 field.

The Official Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Group
http://www.linkedin.com/groupsDirectory?itemaction=mclk&anetid=36836&impid=36836-3384863&pgkey=anet_about&actpref=anet_about-gbm&trk=anet_about-gbm-group&goback=%2Eanb_3384863_*2_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1
This is the world’s largest organization for members of the scientific computing society. There are currently more than 100,000 members of this organization and many of them have LinkedIn profiles connected with this computer science society so you can join and become part of the discussions, forums and exchange of ideas.

Apple Computers
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=73680&trk=group-name
Millions of computer science students have a preference between Apple computers and PCs. The Apple Computers LinkedIn page is a great way to share your love of the Apple brand and discuss your ideas and other topics with others who appreciate the brand as well.

ACS Computers in Chemistry (ACS COMP)
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=1819163&trk=group-name
This LinkedIn group has a diverse membership of people who work in the computer science field along with those who work in the chemistry and biology field. You can join this group and discuss how computers are used in computational chemistry along with the way they provide education and ways to advance knowledge about research results.

CoRE: Computers Robotics and Engineering
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=43717&trk=group-name
This LinkedIn group, which is based out of Binghamton University, is a special interest group for those who want to learn more about computer robotics and engineering technologies. You can connect with people who are already in this field to discuss solutions and ideas.

Top 20 LinkedIn Groups for Mechanical Engineering Students

The mechanical engineering field is one of the more intricate careers that a person can choose. It’s also one of the most competitive. That’s why it is so important to get every edge that you can when it comes to finding something that fits your skills in the job market. One way to do this is to find a variety of LinkedIn groups that you can join where you can network with companies in the mechanical engineering industry. This can help you start your career off on the right foot and get a head start in earning the best wages. Here are some of the best LinkedIn groups for mechanical engineers for you to explore to launch and improve your career.

Jones Engineering Group
http://www.linkedin.com/company/jones-engineering-group
This is a contracting company that specializes in multi-disciplined engineering projects. The Jones Engineering Group is comprised of several other companies, including Patrick Lynch Electrical, HA O’Neil Mechanical and Irish Sprinkler Fire Protection, among several others.

Mechanical Engineers Network
http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Engineering-Jobs-Available-Apply-Today-895817.S.121595116?qid=ecdf15c1-4133-4773-830b-80fff9603479&trk=group_most_popular-0-b-ttl&goback=%2Egmp_895817
This is a discussion group for mechanical engineers on LinkedIn. It’s a great place for mechanical engineers to look for the latest job postings, discuss ideas with others in the industry and to post a description of your skills so potential employers can find you.

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=36972&trk=skills
This organization was founding in 1880 and today it has a LinkedIn group for mechanical engineers. The ASME is a non-profit organization which helps promote the various aspects of this industry, including science and art, along with exploring the core values of mechanical engineering. You can join this LinkedIn group to find out more about what it has to offer for you.

Mechanical Design Forum
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=2666729&trk=anet_ug_hm&goback=%2Eanb_36972_*2_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1
If you like to discuss the latest trends in the mechanical engineering industry or just connect with employers and other engineers, the Mechanical Design Forum LinkedIn group is ideal. Some of the recent topics that have been discussed here include mechanical design jobs in the various parts of the world, thermal management, design for assembly and more.

Engineering Jobs USA
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=3217808&trk=anet_ug_hm&goback=%2Eanb_36972_*2_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1
This group offers job listings for engineers in various parts of the United States. You can join this group and make yourself available to potential employers who are looking for mechanical engineers with the skills that you have to offer.

Mechanical Engineering Consultants
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2121205&trk=group-name
This informal group is ideal for mechanical engineers in the United States who want to network with employers and others in the industry. You can get in touch with consulting professionals and designers in the mechanical engineering industry so you can discuss market trends, exchange ideas with like-minded professionals and anything else related to this field.

Mechanical Power Engineering
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=1564937&trk=group-name
If you are looking to enter the field of power plant design and operations, the Mechanical Power Engineering LinkedIn group may be helpful for your career. It’s a group designed for those who currently work in or desire to work in the fields of natural gas, nuclear plants, coal fire and other forms of energy creation. There is some access to recruiters in the field which is great for career advancement opportunities.

Purdue University Mechanical Engineering
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2892992&trk=group-name
If you are an alumni of Purdue University’s mechanical engineering program, this is a LinkedIn group that you can join. It is also open to current students, faculty, donors, potential students of the programs and friends of the school’s mechanical engineering program.

Engineering Jobs Worldwide
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2449309&trk=group-name
Are you looking to expand your mechanical engineering skills beyond your current location? The Engineering Jobs Worldwide LinkedIn group can help you find jobs overseas and in other parts of the world that need the skills just like yours. Jobs are regularly posted in the fields of marine engineering, civil service, auto CAD production, instrument design and others.

University of Michigan Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=90070&trk=group-name
This group is designed for current students, faculty, staff and alumni of the mechanical engineering program at the University of Michigan. You can join the group for networking purposes or to get in touch with other engineers that share similar interests for socializing and the purposes of sharing ideas.

Engineering Career Opportunities (ECO)
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=834347&trk=group-name
This LinkedIn group for mechanical engineers was designed to help explore job opportunities in this field. Whether you are already working as a mechanical engineer or looking for your first job, this group offers a variety of postings in various concentrations so you can find something that fits your skills.

Simpson Megashot MSH3125-S 3,100 PSI Honda GC190

Premium Gas Powered Heavy Duty Pressure Washer B004MXKUCY

Are you looking for the ideal pressure washer to fit your needs? There are several available on the market and each of them have unique features that will appeal to several buyers. The Simpson Megashot MSH3125-S 3,100 PSI Honda GC190 Premium Gas Powered Heavy Duty Pressure Washer is one of the options available to you.

This particular power pressure washer offers five nozzles that are easily attachable so you can choose the one that is best for the job that you are trying to do. If you want to use it for hosing down your driveway, the fan spray nozzle will be best. But if you have oil spots or other drippings on your cement, you will want to use the nozzle with pinpoint accuracy for best results. Also included is a detergent siphoning tube along with durable 10 inch pneumatic tires which makes it easy to transport the power washer from one side of your property to the other. The MSH3125-S 3,100 PSI Honda GC190

Premium Gas Powered Heavy Duty Pressure Washer measures 33 inches by 21 inches by 19 inches and it weighs approximately 78 pounds.

Some of the uses for the MSH3125-S 3,100 PSI Honda GC190 Premium Gas Powered Heavy Duty Pressure Washer include power washing your deck when the springtime rolls around, spraying down the cemented areas around your home, washing your boat, hosing down your fencing and more. With the proper attachments, you can even wash your car or RV and your windows, too. Pressure washer cleaning can get things clean more efficiently than regular hoses because of the high pressure behind the water which helps get dirt particles, dust and other debris loose that regular cleaning cannot loosen up.

One of the cons that consumers have reported about the MSH3125-S 3,100 PSI Honda GC190

Premium Gas Powered Heavy Duty Pressure Washer is that the bolts on the housing tend to come loose after several hours of use. If left unchecked, this can cause the housing to become loose and oil can leak out of the engine.

The Powerboss Pressure Washer 190cc Honda 3000 PSI 2.5 is a comparable home pressure washer has similar features as the MSH3125-S 3,100 PSI Honda GC190 Premium Gas Powered Heavy Duty Pressure Washer but it is slightly cheaper. Its dimensions are 24 inches by 22 inches by 21 inches and it weighs approximately 90 pounds. For a more expensive model with more features, the Shark KG 3.1 @ 3100 Honda Gx270 Cold Water Direct Driver Pressure Washer is a great option for commercial purposes or frequent use at home. It has 3100 PSI and a commercial duty axial pump along with a hose reel that holds a hose that measures 100 feet long, but it comes with a 50-foot commercial quality hose. The reinforced steel frame is great for stability and durability, too.

The MSH3125-S 3,100 PSI Honda GC190 Premium Gas Powered Heavy Duty Pressure Washer receives great gas pressure washer reviews from consumers who have used this product in the past. It’s a decent purchase for its price.

Malibu Boats

The Malibu Boats company is one of the premiere boating companies in the United States. The company specializes in manufacturing and providing water vessels as well as supplies and parts to repair those vessels or to customize them to your specific boating needs.

Important Dates
1982: Malibu Boats was founded by Robert Alkena and five other friends who wanted to go into business together to start manufacturing their own ski boats. The six friends, based in Merced, California, created 100 custom ski boats to sell to customers.

2003-2009: Each of these years, Malibu Boats won the Powerboat Tow Boat of the Year for one of its unique creations for each respective year.

2008: As of 2008, Malibu Boats has manufactured and sold more than 4,300 boats annually throughout the United States and other countries. This makes it the largest seller of boats specifically designed for water sports worldwide.

2009: Robert Alkema, the found of Malibu Boats, stepped down from his position as president of the company.

2010: Jack Springer is named as the CEO and President of Malibu Boats.

2010: Malibu Boats was awarded several prestigious awards for its products, including the 2010 WSIA Manufacturer of the Year, the Trailer Boats Excellence in Design, the 2010 Riders Choice Innovation of the Year and the 2010 Riders Choice Boat of the Year, among others.

Other Facts:
Malibu Boats is currently based in Loudon, Tennessee.

Malibu Boats has four categories of boats and water vessels that it specializes in manufacturing. The Wakesetter series of boats is one of the company’s specialties and it has won several awards for the various products that it has manufactured for this particular category. This series of vessels including boats specifically designed for wakeboarding and wakesurfing.

Another popular category that Malibu Boats specializes in is the Response series. These vessels focus manufacturing boats that are best for waterskiing and slalom skiing. The Sunscape series is Malibu Boats’ premiere luxury series of boats with vessels that have some of the latest and most upgraded features for today’s discerning boat buyers. These boats have large hulls and they include ballast tanks, a wakeboard tower and other features. All of the boats manufactured by Malibu Boats includes an inboard marine engine created by Indmar with engine blocks made by General Motors.

Currently, Malibu Boats employs nearly 600 people in various parts of the United States and other countries. There is a location in Albury, Australia which serves as one of the leading branches of the company to help increase production. The manufacturer’s oldest dealer – Tilly’s Marine – is located in Ventura, California and it has been in business for more than 25 years selling boats, boating accessories and service.

The goal of Malibu Boats is to create the best boat possible with each and every product that it makes. The company listens to its customers and it creates products that meet the needs of the people that it serves. For more information about the company and the products that it sells, visit www.malibuboats.com.

How to Maintain a Steam Boiler

One of the most efficient ways of generating heat is a steam boiler, but it can also be potentially dangerous if it isn’t maintained properly. A steam boiler creates steam by heating water to the point that it turns into a gas and these devices come in all shapes and sizes. They can be made small enough to heat a home or large enough to create enough steam to power a large engine.

Because steam boilers have a great deal of heat that is being pumped through it, they must be maintained to avoid any accidents that can cause injuries or even fatalities. When converted to steam, water expands to about 1,000 times its original size and it can move through steam pipes at more than 50 miles per hour. In addition to accidents, corrosion and other problems can occur in the pipes and mechanisms that carry and contain the steam which can increase the costs of heating, decrease efficiency and also decrease the quality of the steam that is being produced. Fortunately, there are some easy things you can do to maintain your steam boiler to avoid major accidents and make sure it runs as efficiently as possible.

Keep Your Steam Boiler Clean
Cleaning your steam boiler regularly is one of the best and easiest ways to keep it running efficiently and avoid buildup of debris which can lead to accidents. You should drain your steam boiler on a regular basis so the various parts, such as the bell and gossett pumps,  will stay in good working condition. While it’s drained, you can inspect the parts to make sure the gaskets are in good condition and all of the other parts are working properly.

Maintain a Proper Water Level
The water level in your steam boiler is essential. Many steam boiler accidents occur because there isn’t enough water in them when they are operating. In addition to increasing the risk of accidents, operating a steam boiler at a lower water level can damage the mechanisms. Be sure to check the steam boiler water level from time to time to make sure it has the proper level for operating safely.

Oil the Moving Parts
Maintaining steam boilers means keeping all of the moving parts lubricated and operating smoothly. If they are not oiled regularly, they can malfunction which and cause accidents. The valves should easily open and close so be sure to test them when you empty the steam boiler to see if they are functioning properly and check the b&g pumps for normal working order.

Record Your Maintenance in a Log
You can make sure you maintain your steam boiler at regular intervals by keeping a detailed log of when you do regular checks and inspections of the machine. Make a note of the date and write down any potential problems that you see. If you replace any parts, write down the date that you made the replacement so you can keep an eye on it and predict when it may need to be changed again. Any accidents or cleanings should also be recorded in your log.

Bio:
Garnet Midwest Inc. has been providing great products and services since 1990 for customers in need of steam boiler parts and accessories, including valves, pumps, pipe fittings, tools and maintenance supplies.

Gozzi, Norway

The Gozzi company in Norway has been manufacturing boats since the mid-1990s and it has a customer base which is spread around the world. There are four basic categories that Gozzi specializes in and those are the 17 Open, 23 Open, 29 Open and 29 Jeep. Each of these types of boats has unique features that appeal to the different needs of today’s boat buyers.

17 Open
The Gozzi 17 Open is one of the premiere boats manufactured by this Norwegian company and it includes a stern drive along with an onboard diesel engine and it measures 525 cm in length and 192 cm in width at the longest and widest points respectively. The hull of the Gozzi 17 Open measures 525 cm long and 186 cm wide. The boat has a depth of 85 cm and it stands 155 cm above the water. When dry, it weighs about 800 kg.

In addition, the Gozzi 17 Open holds 90 liters of fuel and a 12V battery. The boat can hold up to 5 passengers and it is in the Class C CE category. The max speed is 39 knots and the engine has 116 horsepower in the standard edition.

23 Open
The Gozzi 23 Open is a larger boat than the 17 Open. It measures 780 cm at its longest and the hull measures 720 cm. The width at its widest point is 236 cm and the hull measures about 230 cm wide. The boat measures 160 cm above the water and it has a maximum depth of 90 cm. It weighs approximately 1500 kg when it is dry.

The 23 Open is capable of holding 210 liters of fuel with a 12V battery and it can travel between 40 and 48 knots with its engine power ranging between 220 and 320 horsepower depending on the edition that you choose.

29 Open
The Gozzi 29 Open boats are great for today’s boat lover. The hull of this particular series of boats is a sandwich design and it measures about 870 cm in length and about 258 cm wide. The boat itself measures about 895 cm at its longest and about 250 cm at the widest point along the boat. It stands 230 cm above the water and 85 cm of the boat is underwater. It weighs between 2000 and 2400 kg when it is dry.

The fuel capacity of the Gozzi 29 Open boat is 335 liters so it will take you far. It has two batteries, each of which are 12V batteries and it can hold up to 7 passengers in this Class C boat. It travels up to 55 knots and versions range between 250 and 420 horsepower.

29 Jeep
This uniquely designed boat by Gozzi, Norway is great for using year round. The cockpit on this boat can seat up to 5 people and it is best used for transportation rather than luxury or pleasure. It holds up to 335 liters of fuel and two 12V batteries and it can move across the water at 55 knots.

The Gozzi company in Norway has several options available for today’s boating enthusiast. For more information about options and prices, visit www.gozzi.no.

Development and Research in Today’s Banking Technology

Banking technology is always changing to accommodate the growing needs of customers. Today’s financial world is a world of uncertainty and many of the latest banking trends in research and development technology reflect that uncertainty. As a result, there are changing trends that you should know about.

Mobile Technology
More and more banks are offering services that are available on your mobile device. While some banks have been doing this for years, other banks are joining in on the trend and making this banking technology more widespread. From checking your balance on your phone to taking a picture of your check and depositing it into your account digitally and much more, mobile banking technology will likely grow throughout the next few years.

Message Centers
An email account is very easy for an experienced hacker to get into these days. And if you have your personal banking information or messages from your bank in your email account, that information could be stolen or compromised. That’s why banking technology is moving away from sending emails to customers and providing more secure message centers for their customers to find the latest information that they need. This will also likely cut down on the phishing scams that send out emails that look like legitimate messages from the bank asking for your password and other confidential information.

More Self-Service Options
Banks are looking for ways to save money for several reasons. One of the reasons is because of recent legislation that caps the amount that a retailer can be charged per transaction when using one of the bank’s cards. The cap used to be at 44 cents, but it’s now 24 cents. As a result, banks are expecting to lose a couple billion dollars each year. To help offset those costs, banks are encouraging their customers to utilize the self-directed services that the company offers. Instead of mailing out statements, more banks are trying to get their customers to enroll in e-statements or paperless billing. ATM transactions are also encouraged rather than speaking directly with a teller and automated phone systems are replacing customer service representatives.

Added Security for Mobile Devices
Along with moving more services to mobile devices and optimizing the bank’s services for smartphones and android based markets comes the necessity for added security. Banks are looking for ways to make their technology safer for accessing on mobile devices which are a relatively new thing that banks are trying to catch up with. In the next several months and years, there will likely be many advancements on the security side of banking technology designed for mobile devices so customers feel more secure in logging onto their account from wherever they are.

If your bank doesn’t already have some of these advances already implemented in their technology, find out if they have any plans to do so in the near future. If not, you may want to consider putting your money in a different bank that has a better dedication to the financial security of its customers and their personal information.

AR Blue Clean AR383 1,900 PSI 1.5 GPM 14 Amp Electric Pressure Washer with Hose Reel

Pressure washers have a variety of uses for today’s homeowner and commercial business owner. They can be used for spraying down driveways, washing out your rain gutters, hosing down the siding on your home and more. In some cases, you can even use the AR Blue Clean AR383 for cleaning graffiti off of your cement walls and other surfaces. If you are looking for a basic power washer, the AR Blue Clean pressure washer may be the ideal product for you and your budget.

The AR Blue Clean AR383 offers 1900 square inches of pressure with 1.5 GPM and a Triplex axial piston pump for added versatility. The trigger gun is the main control for this washer which means the user has total control over the spraying. Also included is a 20 foot hose along with a hose reel to help keep it rolled up. The 30 foot power cord also makes it portable for moving around the home or wherever you need to do some power washing. This pressure washing machine measures 15.1 inches by 31.4 inches by 11.8 inches and it weighs approximately 30 pounds.

One of the drawbacks to the AR Blue Clean AR383 is that the plastic hose adapter tends to leak water. After awhile, the leak gets so bad that the power washer is generally unusable. However, this can be easily and inexpensively fixed by replacing the adapter with a brass hose adapter for around $10. Some consumers have also reported that the hose is made from a stiff plastic which can easily get tangled and it is also difficult to manage it which can cut down on its ease of use and its efficiency.

For something more durable, the Universal Pressure Washer 2.5 GPM @ 2900 PSI with hose and AR Pump is a more expensive model that is made for more frequent use. It measures 19 inches by 24 inches by 24 inches and it is manufactured by MTM Hydro. It has a durable rubber powder-coated steel frame and it uses about 2.5 gallons for each minute of use.

For the type of power washer that the AR Blue Clean AR383 is, there aren’t many other models that are lower on the pricing scale. There is a handheld version from the same company that is comparable – the AR Blue Clean AR118. This particular model offers 1,500 PSI and it is easily carried around. It is designed for lighter jobs and infrequent use and it uses approximately 1.5 gallons per minute.

There are several power washing machines to choose from. You can find a wide selection of electric pressure washers, gas powered pressure washers, high pressure steam cleaners and other machines that use high pressured streams of water for optimal cleaning. The AR Blue Clean AR383 is one of the more affordable options if you aren’t planning to use it very frequently and if you have light cleaning duties to perform around your home.

5 Examples of Rewards Program Software

With customer loyalty at an all time low, finding ways to bring customers back to your business is essential in today’s competitive marketplace. But how can you ensure that customers will return for your products or services when they need them instead of going to your competition? One of the ways you can do that is through a rewards program that encourages them to come back to you. Here are five examples of rewards program software that can help you maintain a loyal customer base.

Dell Pan-Bank Rewards
One of the popular rewards program software that is on the market is the Dell Pan-Bank Rewards solution. This is a program that allows your company to maintain full control of your promotions program, including the length of the promotion, the prices offered and other components. This program has been shown to increase the effectiveness of campaigns and it aligns with your targeted business objectives.

RewardTrax
This rewards program is fully functional for today’s business. Some of the features include a unique domain name for your promotion as well as a variety of management tools that your company can use to control the rewards. There is also email support and various ways to identify your target demographic based on past performance and collected data.

CVS Customer Loyalty Cards
Along with several other pharmacies and grocery stores, CVS offers a customer loyalty card that offers customers a discount on many of the products that they purchase in the store. But in addition to that, the software that is used also links the CVS loyalty card to the in-store coupons based on the items that they purchase.

WorldPoints by Bank of America
Banks often offer loyalty reward programs and Bank of America is no exception. The WorldPoints loyalty program points are easily redeemable for a variety of things, including gift cards, merchandise and even cash. There are several levels of loyalty and you can save up your points to get a more prestigious award or redeem them along the way to get instant benefits. You can also link your WorldPoints account to your checking account so you can have the money deposited directly into your account and have access to it in a matter of minutes.

American Express Membership Rewards
The AmEx Membership Rewards program is a popular option for account holders. One of the benefits of this program is that the points never expire so there is no reason to worry about cashing them in before you lose access to them. The software used in this loyalty rewards program racks up one point for each dollar spent and applies it to the customer’s account. These points can be redeemed for frequent flier miles, entertainment rewards and shopping.

These reward points software programs help some of the world’s biggest companies attract customers and keep them coming back so they can take advantage of the rewards that are offered to them. If your company wants to compete, consider developing a loyalty rewards program that your customers will appreciate.

Modern Dating Practices for Men and Women

There was a time not so long ago when dating was about a long courtship and getting to know each other. Conversation was the main thing that a guy and a girl did on a date along with going to the bowling alley, the skating rink or to a movie. But times have changed and modern day dating practices for men and women have changed and evolved greatly. The rules of dating etiquette have changed, but some principles stay the same.

Length of Dating Relationship
In the last couple decades, the length of time that couples date has increased. When our parents and grandparents were dating, they may have gone six months or even a year before deciding to settle down. While that still happens quite often today, the norm is quite different. These days, couples often date for two, three or even several years before they decide to settle down. In some cases, they can date for an entire decade before taking the plunge into marriage and that’s even if they take that plunge at all.

Dating Online
With the advancements that the internet has made in just about every aspect of our lives, dating online has become one of the most popular ways to meet people. In fact, online dating sites have become the equivalent of what going to a singles bar did for dating in the 1970s and 1980s. You can find people online with the same interests much more efficiently because you can search for the ones that are compatible with the things you are interested in. There are even dating sites that cater to certain interests and hobbies, such as Christian dating sites, Muslim dating sites and several others.

Gender Roles
Twenty years ago, it would have been unheard of for a woman to pick up the tab on a date. Men were always expected to pay for the activities during the dating relationship and it is still like that for the most part. But more than 40 percent of women surveyed by some dating sites have said that they would be happy to reach for the check at dinner on a first date. It’s also less taboo for a woman to ask a guy for a date than it was 20 or 30 years ago. The gender roles are becoming more blurred when compared to previous generations and women are becoming more aggressive in their pursuit when they find a guy that they want to get to know better.

Changing Goals
Today’s modern man is not merely looking for a beautiful woman that they can put their arm around like a trophy of their pursuit. They want something more than just a pretty face. Most men today are looking for a mate that they can share their interests and their ideas with. They want someone they can have a deep conversation with and someone that can hold their own in conversations with their friends rather than someone they can simply show off to the people in their lives.

With the changing norms in today’s dating world, one has to wonder how the dating scene will be in 10 or even 20 years. 

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I Like Bank of America

We signed up for a Bank of America checking and savings account a couple weeks ago. I think we're gonna like 'em. I had an account at WAMU, but they weren't very customer friendly. They wouldn't make an exception just to get my wife added on my account because she didn't have two "acceptable" forms of ID. Bank of America did. They were so nice there. The lady that set up our account took forever, but at least she was being thorough. And she was super sweet, too. One reason we chose Bank of America is because I hope to be going back and forth to Michigan at least a couple times a year. I needed a bank that had branches all over the nation...or at least almost all of the nation.

We ran into a problem with Chase while were in Georgia. We had to put money in our account, but there were no Chase banks within a 500 mile radius. I called, just to be sure.

So I think we're going to be very well satisfied with Bank of America. So far, we haven't had anything but good customer service, smiling faces, and people who go out of their way to get your business. Bank of America has my business now.

Try Blogsvertise!!

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Southern Hospitality...Straight from South Korea

Cast of Characters: (This may come in handy for future blogs, too).
My mother-in-law - she's from South Korea
Diana - my hot, lovely and half-Asian wife
Me - I'm Chad

My mother-in-law is so sweet...almost to a fault.

I got sick Tuesday night on the way home from Santa Ana. By the way..California traffic - B-R-U-T-A-L. Santa Ana is maybe 60 miles away. It took over three hours to get back from there.

Anyways, back to me. I thought it was sinuses, but it turns out that it was the flu. I don't understand how I got sick in this weather, but I did. I told Diana, but I told her not to tell her mom because I knew she would make a fuss over me. I hate when people make a fuss over me...kinda.

But last night she was talking to her mom on the phone and I hear her say, "Chad's been sick all day. He started feeling sick on the way home last night." Then I hear, "Because he didn't want you to make a fuss over him...he knows how you are." So they talk for a couple more minutes and then, in true "mother of Diana" fashion, her mom tells her, "Okay I gotta go. I love you," and then she hung up the phone.

Ten minutes later, there's a knock on the door. Diana's mom walked through the door with a bag full of chicken soup and NyQuil. She even cooked it for me!! The chicken soup...not the NyQuil. I'm not complaining. The soup was good...and the NyQuil was even better. I'm was feeling pretty darn good after a couple of doses straight from the bottle. No sissy cup for me...just give it to me straight. And none of that cherry crap either. I want the "Green Death" flavor.

Mmmmm...chicken soup and NyQuil...it doesn't get much better than that.

And His Name Shall Be Thomas...Or Not.

We had a "get together" in May to celebrate the end of a decade of college. Okay..over a decade...but whatever. We had two of our "couple friends" over - Ken & Sunita and Bryan & Julie - our top two "couple friends" at the time. Julie was pregnant. Her original due date was June 6..which means her kid's birthday would be 6/6/06. So we all made fun of her and said that she's carrying Satan's spawn..like Damien. She's got a good sense of humor about it, but she told us that the doctor said her new due date was May 31. All of us always wondered if she was just telling us that so we'd stop with the Lucifer jokes.

But anyways...I could understand how that could annoy her after awhile. But that's not the awkward part. At the time, they were discussing the idea of naming their baby Thomas. It's a good Christian name. It's nothing out of the ordinary...a good, all-American boy name. You got your Thomas Edison, your St. Thomas Aquinas, your Dave Thomas - the founder of Wendy's. Mmmmmmm...Wendy's

Anyways..one thing that they really liked about Thomas is that nobody can really make fun of his name like most kids do. They said they spent a lot of time trying to find a name that nothing rhymed with and that nobody could find anything to make fun of. Such as, oh..say Dennis could be Dennis the Menace. Another friend of mine - I won't name him because he might get mad...but his last name rhymed with "rusty booty." So he went through hell.

But Bryan and Julie took great pride in the fact that nobody could make fun of the name Thomas....until me. After they talked about how great the name Thomas was, I said, "What about Tom - Ass?" Everybody looked at me, but I was the only one laughing. It was a silent moment. Then it turned into a few silent moments. So I tried to relieve the awkwardness and said, "Maybe I'll just call him Tom or Tommy..how's that?" Diana didn't try to save me this time like she usually does when I say things that aren't socially acceptable. I think she rejoiced in my squirming. Julie looked at me and said, "Well, how about we won't let you call him anything...how's that?" They left soon afterwards.

Hootie & the Blowfish: Not Just a Funny Name Anymore

Hootie and the Blowfish is the greatest band on the face of the earth.

Okay...if you can stop laughing long enough, please continue to read.
I'm completely obsessed with this band. I have been since they came out with Cracked Rear View. I'm not sure what it is...but I am utterly and completely enamored by them. Darius Rucker's voice is one man's voice that I could listen to all day without getting tired of it. There's a couple others, like Eddie Vedder's and Kurt Cobain's, but Darius tops the list.

I'll admit it. When I first started listening to them, it was because of their name. "Hootie and the what-fish?" I said to myself.

And then I saw their video. When their first video played on VH1, I remember liking them for their uniqueness. "Hey, a black guy in an all-white band," I remember thinking. "That's a great concept." I thought that was even more intriguing then their name. But that wasn't the only thing I liked. At the time, Darius seemed a tad bit chubby. Besides John Popper of Blues Traveler, there were not many lead singers of bands who had extra meat on their bones. I liked it...because I was chubby...but I wasn't black. And I'm still not...yet.

But then my fascination with them deepened. I began listening to their lyrics. I don't like to label them as many have - "the band that brought down grunge." There were many bands at the time that were very similar to HBF (that's short for Hootie and the Blowfish for the laymen). But the other bands just weren't as overplayed as HBF was...nor was their name as funny. Come on...Sister Hazel?? That's not very funny. Toad the Wet Sprocket was pretty funny...but it just wasn't as catchy as Hootie. HBF's lyrics were happy, save for the few obligatory ballads that every band is forced to compile on their albums. But unlike the grunge bands that fell to the feet of Hootie, the theme of their ballads didn't revolve around "angst" and being a "social outcast" or "teenage loserdom." Their songs didn't have the message of "Life sucks and I want to kill myself." They were about breakups and parental deaths and growing up. Their lyrics were more mature, focusing on dealing with heartache rather than wallowing in it. Their song, "Hold My Hand" was basically about sticking together through the troubles of life rather than running away or being intent on self-pity.

And so my love grew...exponentially. I went to a Hootie concert - my very first concert ever. My second concert, coincidently, was Lollapalooza - a festival of bands and musicians that personified self-pity. I not only had to beg my friends to go to see HBF, but I also had to buy their tickets. And what's more, we had to drive to Dayton, Ohio to see the concert because the scheduled shows in Michigan were sold out.

The next year, I had to choose a college to go to. I decided to go to the University of South Carolina. Yep, that's right. The hallowed halls of USC - Columbia...the same university that was graced by the mesmerizing voice of Darius himself. It was a religious experience for me. The entire summer prior to my leaving, the only music I listened to was Hootie. My CD player was all Hootie, all the time. Their second album, Fairweather Johnson, had just been released and now I had double the Hootie for my listening pleasures.

HBF helped me grow up. For every situation I was going through, good or bad, there was a Hootie song that helped me get through it. USC didn't work out for me, due to family problems back home. But the spirit of HBF stayed with me.

Soon after coming back, I met the gal that would be my wife...just before their third album - Musical Chairs - was released. There were songs on that album that carried me through feelings of a new love.

One of my biggest praises of HBF is that they don't go around spouting their political views. The closest they come is one line in the song "Drowning" - "Why is the rebel flag still hanging from the statehouse walls?" I hate these bands that think they can use their popularity and position to spout off their irrelevant and uninformed opinions. Very few musicians have my permission to do this. Bono is one of them because he actually gets involved. But enough about Bono...back to Hootie. Out of all the Hootie concerts I've been to (and trust me, it's MANY), I've never heard an "Impeach Bush" or anything political coming out of their mouths. I respect that. I think they're Democrats, but the fact that I don't know for sure impresses me.

And another think I like - they admit that they started playing music so they could get free beer and women. I love honesty, especially when most of the pretentious musicians are like, "Aww man, I just love what music does. I need to spread the message. I couldn't care less about the money." Yeah right. That's why you and everybody that has said that fought Napster tooth and nail. Just say you're doing it for the money..or for the ladies...or whatever. That's more respectable.

Anyway...I'm cutting this off now because I'll probably be doing more Hootie-inspired blogs in the future...the near future. Thanks for reading. Give 'em a listen if you haven't tried 'em out yet. They're amazing.

Hootie's Wand of Wonder Waves Again

Once again, Hootie and the Blowfish has come through for me. With their music, they helped me through many things in life. Many a night I drove around in my sticker-filled mini van...looking at the stars in the sky and listening to the power in Darius's voice as he sang, "Goodbye." Many a night, I listened as Darius poured his heart into "Let Her Cry" - possibly one of the most beautiful songs ever written. Mr. Rucker's voice has sent many chills up my spine and given me hundreds of cases of goose pimples. (I haven't heard that word in forever!! Are they trying to phase it out?? Is it derogatory towards geese? Just wondering).

We used to go to karaoke bars all the time - me, my wife, and some friends. In 1999, I got up and sang, "Only Wanna Be With You," by...you guessed it...Hootie & the Blowfish. At the completion of the song, to my then girlfriend's surprise, I asked her to come up. I got down on one knee and proposed to her, dedicating the song I had just sung to her. I know...I know. How romantic could it be in front of a bunch of drunken idiots, you're probably asking. Please, try not to swoon into unconsciousness. In my defense, the first time I proposed to her was earlier in the year...at the Grand Canyon...as we watched the sun was setting over the majestic wonder on the Northern Rim...with Hootie's "Only Wanna Be With You" softly playing behind us on the car stereo. That time wasn't official, though. I didn't have a ring.

But now, thanks to a blog that I wrote about them, I have a writing job. And I'm so happy. I actually wrote the blog about them thinking that maybe it would catch one of their "people's" attention and maybe I could meet the band one day. That is my ultimate dream. Then I could die a happy man. But I suppose getting a job from the blog is the next best thing.

I'm not a celebrity worshipper or some nutjob fan. I just have nothing but respect for these guys. They're the "all-American" kinda guys. They have wives, families, and emotions. To me, they're real. They're all about beer, heartache, and having a good time in life. And they don't take themselves too seriously.

Hootie and the Blowfish are not only my favorite band. As silly as it sounds, they are a part of my life. I'm sure there will be more Hootie memories to follow.

So Hootie, here's to you and your funny name. If your people read this...how's about some tickets to the New Year's Eve Las Vegas show??

Writing Prompt Exercise: No Dialogue

So sometimes what I like to do is take writing prompts out of my various books and see what I can do with it. Here's one. The prompt was just "write a scene using no dialogue and only body language." Give it a shot, too, if you want. It's pretty fun. I got a few more I'm working on tonight that I'm gonna try to post.


They sat at the table, gazing at the pile of bills that had accumulated for the month. Vic refused to look Liz in the eyes, but she would not even look in his direction. His hand sifted through the pile, searching for evidence of her carefree spending habits. She searched for ATM records from Déjà vu. He gloriously held up a credit card bill - $143 dollars at JC Penney. He held it in his hand and then dangled it inches from her eyes. She moved her head, but the evidence followed it. His accusing smile shone as she frantically began to look for her redemption. A smile slowly crossed her face when she reached for her own damning evidence - $180 ATM withdrawal – Déjà vu. Her wide eyes and sarcastic smile only made him search harder and faster. Alas, another discovery. He shook his head and held another statement. The look of joy on his face gave her a frown. She could only guess what he found this time.

He raised it up above his head and threw it down into her lap, chuckling triumphantly. Don Franco’s - $192. He sat back in the stiff dining room chair and crossed his arms in victory. She continued to search frantically, but found no more papers to accuse him with. Slumping down in her chair in defeat, she looked at him out of the corner of her eye. He continued to stare her down with menacing eyes. She winked at him and reached for his leg. He did not move. She stood up and leaned over to kiss him, but his lips remained rigid. She walked towards the bedroom, unbuttoning her pink JC Penney shirt as she slowly glided towards the bedroom door. She looked back at him before entering and motioned for him to follow her with her newly manicured finger. He smiled. He stood from his chair and quickly followed her. Their monthly ritual continued.

Joke: Logic & Flawed Reasoning

This is my all-time favorite joke ever! It was told on the Conan O'Brien show by one of the funniest men on the planet - Norm McDonald. He does a much much much better job in telling it in only the way that Norm McDonald can tell a joke, but this is the best way I can recount it. And this will be my last joke for awhile. I know it's kinda long...but I think the payoff at the end makes it worth it.

Bob had just moved in to a new neighborhood and was talking over the fence with his new neighbor for the first time. The two began discussing things that new neighbors discuss.
"So what do you do for a living?" Bob asked Richard, the new neighbor.

"I'm a professor of logic at the local University," Richard proudly responded.

"Logic? What's that?"

"Well," begins Richard, "it's probably easier if I just give you an example rather than tell you what it is."

"Okay," Bob replied inquisitively.

"Well, I see that you have a doghouse in your backyard."

"Yeah," replies Bob. "That's a doghouse."

"So I'm assuming that since you have a doghouse, you must have a dog. And since you have a dog, chances are you probably have a family."

"Okay, Richard," Bob said. "So far, you're right."

"And since you have a family," Richard continued, "that means you have a wife, and kids...am I right?"

"Yes..yes, you're right."

"And since you have a wife and kids, I deduct that you're a heterosexual. Is that correct?"

"Yes..that's correct."

"So you see," explains Richard, "just from taking the fact that you have a doghouse, I was able to deduce that you're a heterosexual."

"Wow," says Bob. "That is pretty amazing." Later that day, Bob was waiting at the bus stop with another gentleman. He strikes up a conversation with the stranger. "I was talking to my new neighbor earlier today," he begins. "Turns out, he's a logic professor at the local university."

"A logic professor?" the man says. "What's that?"

"Well," begins Bob, "let me give you an example. For instance, do you have a doghouse in your yard?"

"No," replies the stranger.

"Well, what are ya," Bob exclaims, "a homosexual??"