J. Bartleby
I've been writing, in one form or another, for years. I'm a thirtysomething liberal in the Midwest.
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Toothpaste Without SLS: For Frequent Canker Sore SufferersFrequent canker sore sufferers, besides paying attention to their diet and stress levels, should certainly investigate toothpaste without SLS. Here are three toothpastes to try. -
Personal Ad Cliches: Five Things to Avoid when Writing Your Online ProfileAlthough there's no universally correct way to draft an online profile, there are some personal ad cliches that you may want to avoid. Here are five things that make me cringe - or at least roll my eyes. -
Akbar and Jeff Halloween Costumes: Idea for Gay CouplesDressing up like Akbar and Jeff for Halloween is a rather novel idea, especially for gay couples who want to do something snarkily and adorably matched yet still recognizable by a sizable chunk of the population. -
My Take on Immigration Reform: Control, Amnesty, and LawfulnessMy position is one of control and containment - followed by a very reluctant yet pragmatic amnesty - followed by a reign of strict lawfulness. -
iPod Etiquette for the Urban Dweller: Two Easy RulesPeople, we need to discuss iPod etiquette for a few minutes. -
Union-Built Computers Support Labor MovementOne small company has begun to sell and support union-built computers in response to other manufacturers' labor decisions. -
Brain Donation: Giving Your Brain to Neurological ResearchMedical schools and research institutes are in constant need of brain tissue for studies on neurological disorders like autism, dementia, and narcolepsy, so they make the process of brain donation free and easy to coordinate. -
Same-sex Marriage and Last NamesRegardless of same-sex marriage laws, an individual is largely free to change his or her name through the court system. So, even if a union isn't recognized by a state government, gay couples have plenty of last name options. -
Chicago Without a Car: Do the MathLet's do the math on living in Chicago without a car. When you crunch the numbers, you'll wonder why anyone would keep a car unless he or she absolutely, positively needed it. -
Strange Travels: Unicycle ToursImagine my surprise when I learned that unicyclists often participate in long-distance unicycle tours in locations as diverse as California, Norway, China, Austria, Laos, and even the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. -
ABBA Halloween CostumesLooking for a four-person blast from the past this Halloween? Dress up like ABBA, the iconic Swedish pop group of the 1970s. -
Organize Research: Collect Articles and Citations with CiteULikeCiteULike has filled the academic bookmarking niche by allowing users to collect and organize research links, manage citation details, and even extract bibliographic data from a web page automatically. -
Strange Travels: Jules' Lodge is an Underwater Hotel in Key LargoAt Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida, guests can pay for the privilege of scuba diving down to an aquatic research lab that has been enterprisingly converted into a small underwater hotel. -
Making Condoms More Erotic and FunWhile condoms do represent an extra step and alter the feel of sex, they don't have to kill the mood or make sex less enjoyable unless you let them. If you approach their use in a playful and prepared way, condoms can become more erotic and fun. -
Social Shopping on Wists: A New Take on Social BookmarkingWists combines the social bookmarking aspect of del.icio.us, the photo-hopping attraction of Flickr, and the "wishlist" concept of shopping sites like Amazon to create a viable web 2.0 hybrid known as social shopping. -
Studio Apartments in Rogers Park, ChicagoThough it's at the very northern fringe of the city, the Rogers Park neighborhood is a friendly and bustling one, thanks to its diversity and its many cheap apartment buildings full of studio apartments.
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Reflector Shield as Cheap Wireless Router Signal BoosterDepending on your situation, it's possible that a reflector shield can serve as a cheap wireless router signal booster for as little as $5.
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Improve Your Home Wireless Signal for FreeBefore you dish money out for new accessories, make sure you've exhausted the free options for improving your home wireless signal.
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Care Package for Your College Student: Ideas for ParentsFill that cardboard box with a mix of practical and fun stuff for your college student.
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Healthy Eating Habits and Dining Halls: 10 Tips for College StudentsWithout Mom or Dad there to lovingly ensure a well-balanced diet, you may face a cafeteria full of choices that make healthy eating habits hard to keep up.
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Strange Travels: The Penis Museum of IcelandThe Icelandic Phallological Museum is a serious yet humorous tourist attraction with a penis on record for nearly every species of mammal living on or around the island.
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How to Clean Your Fridge: Five StepsThough it can seem daunting, especially if you fear what lurks in the back, it's easy to clean your fridge thoroughly when you tackle the project in an orderly way. For those new to cleaning refrigerators, here's my five-step guide.
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Fast Food Refractory PeriodsJust as we humans (men in particular) need a period of time after orgasm before they're up for sex again, so too do we need a period of time after consuming, say, White Castle, before we can eat it again comfortably.
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Adding Images to Your AC ArticlesFor those Content Producers who are still hesitant or uncertain about adding images to their articles on Associated Content, here is a set frequently asked questions.
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Five Year-Round Uses for Christmas LightsThanks to their softer glow and their linear orientation, Christmas lights can serve practical purposes year-round. Here are just five alternative, creative uses to consider.
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How to Make a Slideshow Using IrfanViewNeed to create a photo slideshow but don't want to use Power Point or buy one of the expensive photo editors that professionals use? Try the totally free IrfanView program!
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The Best Way to Clean Mini Blinds: In Your BathtubHere's a step-by-step guide to what I consider the best way to clean mini blinds - in your bathtub.
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VLC Media Player Download: The (Almost) Universal Free Media PlayerThis is an introduction to VLC, a free media player that works on many platforms and plays many different file types. If you encounter video files or DVDs that won't play elsewhere, try this software.
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Avant Browser: Free Download of an Alternative to Internet ExplorerAvant Browser is a free download must-have for people who toggle between multiple websites and people who like to tell their browser, with utter ease, which web extras to allow or disable. It's an intuitive, customizable program.
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Custom Skins for Avant BrowserFor the geeky Avant lovers (like me) who insist on personalizing the browser's look, custom skins can be created with the Avant Browser Skin Maker. Here are the details!
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Strange Travels: Get a Cat with Your Room at Minnesota's Anderson HouseAt a quaint hotel in the Mississippi River town of Wabasha, Minnesota, guests can have one of five famous cats delivered to their room for the night.
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Wedding Planning Software for MacsAfter scouring the web, tracking down publishers, and reading reviews, I've discovered only two wedding planning software programs available for Macs, and both have received some down dings for product support.
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Wedding Planning Software by IDo: Not Free, but Worth $30Elm Software has created a program called iDo that can help a couple organize every detail of their wedding: invitations, RSVPs, seating, gifts, dinners, tasks, finances, and more. While it's not free, the features are worth a small investment.
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Ikea Furniture Shopping: A Store Guide for First-TimersThis is an overview of how shopping works at Ikea stores along with some tips for efficiency.
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Budget Hotels Near O'Hare Airport in ChicagoFor those travelers on a budget whose business or leisure requires an airport-area stay, here are some of the budget hotels near O'Hare Airport in Chicago. All of these budget hotels near O'Hare quoted me nightly rates under $100.
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Lost Package: Filing a Postal Insurance ClaimProvided that you keep your paperwork in order and remain patient with the USPS red tape, it's not overly complicated to file a postal insurance claim for a lost package.
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Free Desktop Weather Software: Four ReviewsAs your dutiful reviewer, I laboriously installed four of the more reputable weather programs and used them each for a short period of time. Here's my guide to free desktop weather software.
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Where to Buy Tapioca Pearls (Boba) for Bubble TeaBubble tea enthiusiasts may have a hard time finding tapioca pearls in many grocery stores. If you're seeking boba for home use, here are some tips on where to shop.
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Dunkin' Donuts Franchise Information: Coffee Chain Planning ExpansionBolstered by skyward sales, Dunkin' Donuts has confirmed reports that it plans to add between 700 and 800 stores a year until it reaches a confidently aggressive goal of 15,000 locations in the United States.
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Kegel Exercises for Men: Improve the Male OrgasmThe PC muscle can be explored and strengthened with Kegel exercises to improve sex - specifically the power, length, and overall sensation of the male orgasm.
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Cheap Airline Tickets on Southwest AirlinesIf you're not familiar with Southwest's unique approach to flying and their take on cheap airline tickets, read on - because you may be missing out on a deal.
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Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me: Radio Show Taping and TicketsWait Wait…Don't Tell Me is a radio program taped on Thursday nights for broadcast the upcoming weekend. You can buy tickets to the show's live recording in downtown Chicago or just participate from the comfort of your own home.
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Are McDonald's Salad Dressings Healthy?: Fat and Sodium AboundAmid all the buzz about McDonald's salads, questions have arisen about the fat and sodium content of the salad dressings offered. Time to check the labels!
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How to Find Cheap Apartments in ChicagoChicago's rental market offers plenty of well-located apartments and houses that are relatively inexpensive - perfect for students, young professionals, and people of any age who want to balance cost and comfort in a decent neighborhood.
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Extended Stay Hotels: Cheap Rates on WeekendsAlthough they cater primarily to business travelers, extended stay hotels - like Extended Stay America - often have competitive nightly charges during the week and downright cheap rates on weekends.
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Get Paid for Academic Research StudiesWhile I can't claim that it's made me rich, participating as a subject in academic research studies has been an easy, socially beneficial, and even fun way to earn a little extra cash in my spare time.
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Healthier Menu Items at Wendy'sOf course, almost nothing at Wendy's - or most other fast food place - can patently qualify as health food, but some options are certainly better choices than others. Here's a quick look at the healthier menu items.
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Caribou Coffee: Calculated and ContrivedCaribou Coffee has carved a niche as comfortable as its stores with quality coffee and well-feigned friendliness. Yet companies of this ilk tease and mislead with their contrived atmospheres.
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Southwest Airlines and Assigned Seating: A Slippery RunwayWhile it won't officially happen until at least 2008 (if at all), the advent of assigned seats on all Southwest Airlines flights would strike me as a sad sign that the company can no longer balance principles with profits the way it has for over 30 years.
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Budget Hotels Near Midway Airport in ChicagoFor Chicago visitors who are scrimping on travel and lodging costs in order to free up extra cash for playing in the city, it's worth considering budget hotels near Midway Airport.
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O'Hare Airport in Chicago: CTA and Metra TrainsO'Hare Airport enjoys a solid connection to public transit, so Chicago visitors can easily connect to CTA and Metra trains, saving money and - in some cases - time.
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Midway Airport in Chicago: Train and Bus TransportationIf you're unfamiliar with Midway's transit options because you're used to O'Hare, or if you're just wondering how easy it is to take public transit to and from the "other" airport, this brief guide is for you.
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TEFL Certificate Programs in PragueThe purpose of this article is twofold: first, we'll look at why Prague has become such a popular training ground for TEFL, and second, we'll note some of the higher quality TEFL certificate programs in Prague.
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Fireworks, Military Might, and Conspicuous ConsumptionUnderlying the loud, bright pomp of pyrotechnics is a violent, imperialistic sensibility fueled by conspicuous consumption and our obsession with military might.
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Online TEFL Certificate CoursesOnline TEFL certificate courses vary in quality and are never as comprehensive as those taught in person, yet because they involve less commitment in time and money, they may still be worthwhile, depending on one's goals.
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Fireworks and Air Pollution: Why Fireworks Are Environmentally IrresponsibleIn creating and spectating pyrotechnic displays, few seem to consider the rather obvious link between fireworks and air pollution.
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Airport Noise: Insulation Programs Remain the Best SolutionThe noise pollution caused by airports will never be solved entirely because airports are just too vital to our culture and commerce, but insulation programs remain the most feasible answer - and a surprisingly deft example of democracy in action.
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Brattby Bed Frame by Ikea: For Kids and Adult Cheapskates like MeInexpensive but sturdy, the Brattby bed frame is a low-maintenance solution for child or guest bedrooms, though it's also ideal for us cheapskate grown-ups. The design is simple and unobtrusive, and the assembly is easy - if you get all the screws.
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Muddus Drop-Leaf Table by Ikea: Multipurpose Table and Desk for Small SpacesSturdy, durable, and easy to assemble, the Muddus drop-leaf table works as both a petite desk (when the leaf is down) and as a table with double the surface area (when the leaf is up and slid into position).
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Inside the Customer Service Call Center: Why and How Bad Customer Service HappensThis is an insider's look at customer service call centers, with an eye on why poor customer service occurs, how agents spitefully handle disliked customers, and how policies lure representatives into taking advantage of consumers' time and money.
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EFax Free: How to Receive Faxes for Free Via EmailAs an alternative to buying a home fax machine or breaking the rules at work, eFax Free provides helpful service for those in need of low-maintenance faxing capabilities.
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Logitech Mini Cordless Optical Mouse: Product ReviewIf you are looking for a small, portable, wireless mouse that includes a scroll wheel (not a ball), this product delivers - and then some.
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My Customer Service Experience with Washington MutualInstead of writing a private complaint letter to Washington Mutual about my recent experience in opening a checking account, I decided that an article would be better. So, come read about the poor customer service I experienced.
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Men's Windefyer Umbrella by London Fog: Product ReviewAlthough it's not completely "windproof", the Windefyer won't break, snap, or tear - even if it encounters the kind of strong winds and hail. Large enough when open and small enough when closed, it can serve as your go-to protection from the rain.
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SanDisk 1GB Cruzer Mini Flash Drive: Product ReviewWhatever you need it to carry, the SanDisk 1GB Cruzer Mini Flash Drive provides a quality product at a reasonable price: there's plenty of storage space, and the device comes with optional encryption software.
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Personal Password System: How to Keep Your Passwords OrganizedBy developing a sense of structure for your passwords, you ensure that your information remains safe and protected while saving time. Consider this overview of my personal password system along with some tips for organization.
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Mediterranean and "Medriatic" Restaurants in Milwaukee: Yaffa and Il MitoMilwaukee is lucky to have Mediterranean food available in or near its greyish downtown. There's Yaffa, the truly pan-Mediterranean lounge, and there's Il Mito, an Italian-based restaurant that looks beyond the boot for some inspiration.
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Dickies 614 Messenger Bag: Product ReviewDickies' most popular messenger bag, the "614 Basic" is ideal for regular use: waterproof, tough, simple, and available in almost any pattern you desire. For just over $20, you'll never find a perfect, flawless bag, but this one's a good bet.
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Fiskars Left-Handed Scissors: Product ReviewSmartly designed and appropriate for most general uses, the $15 Finnish-made Fiskars left-handed scissors are a worthwhile investment in handheld comfort and straight cutting for any southpaw.
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Delphi MyFi Portable XM2GO Radio Receiver: Product ReviewFor people who love the variety inherent in satellite radio and want diverse, commercial-free, uncensored music and talk in handheld form, Delphi MyFi XM2GO is a reliable option, despite a few design flaws.
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Tour(ism) De France: Stops Along the Tour De France 2006 RouteThe 2006 Tour de France is giving many riders a fresh look at fame. At the same time, it's giving many cities and towns along the route a turn in the spotlight of tourism.
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Free or Cheap Packing Supplies for MovingEven if you don't reduce yourself to one carload of belongings the way that I do, you can save a little extra on moving costs by prudently gathering free or cheap packing supplies.
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Wet Tunes WT50 Shower Radio: Product ReviewWater-safe, convenient to hang, and brightly translucent, this Wet Tunes WT50 shower radio will work for anyone who just needs some music or news during a shower. It's not without flaws, but it's also very cheap.
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Retractable Headphones for IPodsPlenty of companies have already recogized the problem of tangled cords and created retractable headphones for iPods, computers, and other devices.
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Birkenstock Sandals: Product ReviewNo matter what kind of Birkenstock sandals you buy, you know you're getting quality construction and comfort that comforms to your own feet - even if the pricetag seems a little high.
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JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System: Product ReviewRetailing around $120-150, the JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System is a practical but fun sound system that will work for everything from CD players to iPods to computers. This speaker and subwoofer combo is surprisingly powerful and attractive.
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Ikea Funka Coffee Table: Product ReviewDespite a few flaws in the durability, the concept of this space-saving table is indispensable At around $60, the dual-functionality of the Ikea Funka coffee table is affordable and attractive.
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Remington PG 200 (Personal Groomer): Product ReviewThe Remington PG 200 is not meant to be a full daily shaver, but it's ideal for the finer points of grooming: the attachments all work, it's cordless, and it's been grooming my face neatly for months.
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Community Credit Unions in the Chicago AreaThere are only a handful of credit unions out there requiring nothing more than a residence or job - of any sort - within a particular part of the Chicago or Chicagoland.
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Ikea Grankulla Futon Chair and Munkarp Mattress: Product ReviewIf you need an inexpensive futon that can serve as an occasional guest bed, Ikea's Grankulla futon chair and its corresponding Munkarp mattress will suffice.
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Traveling the World's Starbucks Stores: Starbucking is StarsuckingMeet a man nicknamed "Winter," who is planning to visit every Starbucks location in the world. Yes, this schmuck is spending a significant part of his life traveling to Starbucks stores, and he's keeping a thoroughly tedious record of his progress.
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Free Mensa Test?It's possible that, over the course of your life, you've taken a free Mensa test without even realizing it. Are you qualified to join the High IQ Society?
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Brady Street Restaurant Guide for MilwaukeeAfter living just a few blocks away from all the bustle and dining at least once at most of the eateries, I'm presenting my Brady Street Restaurant Guide for Milwaukee.
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Steak Houses in MilwaukeeLeave aside the predictable chain restaurants and treat yourself to one of these downtown Milwaukee steak houses.
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Overnight Cheesecake DeliveryA look at just three of the reputable companies that offer rapid delivery of their famous cheesecakes.
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French Restaurants in MilwaukeeMilwaukee does not exactly resonate with French character. Yet sprinkled throughout the town are a few well-regarded French restaurants serving everything from lunchy fare like a croque madame to more sophisticated meals like coq au vin.
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Custom Bookshelves on a Budget: Creative IdeasWhether you're a total book hog or just someone who needs space to store books, you can wax creative and fashion some custom bookshelves on a budget.
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Promoting AC Content Using Social Bookmarking Sites: Furl.net And MoreThe purpose of this article is to help AC's Content Producers understand social bookmarking sites and how they can be used to promote content and generate page views.
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Vegetarian Friendly Restaurants in MilwaukeeSo your boyfriend doesn't eat meat. Or your sister calls herself a "pasta-terian." Or you just want something other than a hamburger or a chicken breast. Whatever the case, consider these vegetarian friendly restaurants in Milwaukee.
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Latin American Restaurants in Milwaukee: Cubanitas and Sol FireMy markedly divergent reviews of the two best-known Latin American restaurants in Milwaukee
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Decorating a Small Living RoomThere are two different problems you can have with a small living room. The first is fitting in all your furnishings. The second is combating the generally cramped feeling that arises when these items inhabit an already tight space.
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Safety on CTA Rail Lines in ChicagoThough urban transit sometimes gets a bad reputation, the CTA is actually quite safe, especially when users remain attentive. Following are some tips regarding safety on CTA rail lines.
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Buying Gift Cards on EBayIt's true that you can buy anything on eBay, including gift cards and gift certificates to retailers across the country. Here are some FAQs related to buying gift cards on eBay.
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Crime Rates in Chicago: How to Find Neighborhood Statistics and MoreThanks to a combination of Chicago Police Department resources and the innovative folks at the nonprofit ChicagoCrime.org, crime rates in Chicago are remarkably accessible through a myraid of search tools.
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Reveling in Time Alone: Ideas for Spending Quality Time by YourselfAlternating social interaction and "me time" is healthy! Here are some ideas for reveling in time alone, many of which are free.
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Volunteer Travel Adventures: FAQFor service-minded individuals and groups, volunteer travel adventures are gaining popularity alongside the movement for socially responsible travel.
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Travel Week in Review: Seattle, Salento, and Socially Responsible ResortsIn surfing through the travel content this week, I was delighted to read about three locations I've never visited: Seattle, Southern Italy, and the Dominican Republic. These spiffy submissions all convey a sense of place and a firsthand angle on travel.
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African Restaurants in MilwaukeeThere are three popular African restaurants in Milwaukee: one downtown, one in Riverwest, and one on the East Side near UWM. Because African cuisine is so diverse, virtually everyone can find something delicious at one of these places.
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High Fructose Corn Syrup Health: Obesity LinkAs consumers have grown more suspicious of big business and as nutrition researchers have tried to pin down links between diet and obesity, high fructose corn syrup has been indicted as a contributing factor in the sharp trend toward a fat America.
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Unusual Dinner Party IdeasAre you wanting to throw a casual gathering at your place but looking for unusual dinner party ideas? If you like themes and novelty, then check out this list of creative get-togethers you can throw.
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College Parent Advice: Tips for Freshman Move-In Day"Overwhelming" is the word that many freshmen and their parents use to describe the day the student moves into his or her residence hall. Here are some parent tips for managing the first day and keeps things in perspective.
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German Restaurants in Downtown MilwaukeeAt both German restaurants in downtown Milwaukee, diners can enjoy everything from schnitzel to sauerbraten and bratwurst to beer.
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Wooden Pedestal Table: Three Creative IdeasThese three-legged tables, made of blandly colored pressed wood chips, are quite unattractive when untouched. Instead of buying a frilly table cloth, try these three creative ideas, all of which are inexpensive, easy, and fun.
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Stop Soda Pop: Five Reasons Not to Drink SodaI've finally come around to curtailing the Coke. I'm not entirely soda-free, but now I average about two servings a week as compared with the five a day I used to consume. So what were the reasons behind my behavior change?
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Bicycle City: A Brief Look at Bicycle Friendly CommunitiesThe League of American Bicyclists maintains a system for identifying and celebrating "bicycle friendly communities." With gas costs and environmental concerns on the rise, more cities are evaluating their bike-friendliness and vying for awards.
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Saturday Night Live Commercials: Best of Each DecadeIn its long history, Saturday Night Live has created hundreds of fake commercials to spoof products, poke fun at people, and make us laugh. Here's a short list of my personal favorites in order by decade.
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10 Small Kitchen Appliances You Don't NeedNow that I've spent some time abroad, America's obsession with frivolous kitchen technology seems even more absurd that it did before. Certain people really do use these small kitchen appliances regularly, but most of the time, they just collect dust.
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Amtrak in MilwaukeeWith the addition of a popular South Side station near Milwaukee's airport and plans underway for a renovated downtown depot, Amtrak in Milwaukee may be on track to a brighter future.
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Art Deco Hotels in MilwaukeeEmbracing geometric shapes and deep, Fauvist colors, the Art Deco style is cherished as being opulent but forward-looking. And that's just what guests find at the two most recognizable Art Deco Hotels in Milwaukee, the Ambassador and Hotel Metro.
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Amtrak and Carnival Cruises Cooperate on Post-Katrina New Orleans TravelThe Big Easy is back in business, and tourist packages are reappearing to boot. Among the good news is a New Orleans venture between Amtrak, the passenger rail system, and Carnival Cruise Lines, the "fun ship" company.
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Travel Week in Review: Planes, Trains, and AutomobilesLooking for a way to unite this week's travel features, I felt like Rod Roddy animatedly introducing a showcase showdown package on The Price is Right: "Debbie, your showcase is an amazing mix of….Planes, Trains, and Automobiles!!!"
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Soup Restaurants in MilwaukeeWithin the last few years, Milwaukee has souped itself up, with several restaurants opening their doors to focus on a family favorite: soup.
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Questions to Ask when Renting an Apartment: Ten Topics You May ForgetHere are ten frequently forgotten questions to ask when renting an apartment.
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Perfect Coffee Taste at Home: Tips for Brewing with a Regular Coffee MakerMost home coffee drinkers just want good tasting drip coffee from a regular coffee maker. Here are some tips for achieving good taste without spending hundreds of dollars.
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Why Ban Smoking in Public Places?: Arguments in FavorAs more cities and states consider public smoking bans, we must continue to grapple pro and con arguments. If you intuitively support smoking curtailment but need some logical support, here are some brief arguments in favor of smoking bans.
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Negotiating Your College Financial Aid PackageDid you know that you can negotiate your college financial aid package, especially if you are a high-talent student attending one of the nation's more selective colleges? These academically driven schools compete for top-notch students like you.
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Chinese Restaurants in Milwaukee: Top FourCraving crab rangoon? Savouring sesame sauce? Wanting won-tons? The good news is that Milwaukee, though not brimming with Chinese restaurants, has several standouts - mostly on the East Side.
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Skipping a Grade: Should Gifted Children Move Ahead?For some gifted children, skipping a grade might make sense. Parents contemplating such a jump should consider these questions.
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SNL Halloween Costume Ideas: Saturday Night Live Characters of the 1990sFocusing on SNL characters who reached peak popularity in the 1990s, I have assembled a guide to ten Saturday Night Live costumes. You'll find a mix of male and female solo characters as well as memorable duos from America's favourite sketch comedy show.
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Public Colleges Vs. Private Colleges: What's Really Affordable?Public colleges seem to provide a more affordable education. But there's more to the equation of tuition at public and private colleges than just sticker price, so the question of what's really affordable may sometimes have a surprising answer.
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Akbar and Jeff: Thoughts on Matt Groening's Cartoon Gay CoupleAkbar and Jeff - the fez-hatted, big-nosed guys wearing Charlie Brown shirts - speak to the masses despite living in the shadows of The Simpsons.
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Confronting Smokers on Cigarette Butt Litter: "Rebuttals"When confronted about their cigarette butt litter, the population of littering smokers typically resorts to a number of rationalizations about why they're justified. Following are some of my "rebuttals," if you will pardon the pun.
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Names of Espresso Drinks: An IntroductionFor people who are unfamiliar, here is a brief (though not exhaustive) introduction to the names of espresso drinks found at most coffeeshops.
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Gift Ideas for Bookworms Other Than BooksOne of the nice things about befriending a bookworm is that they almost never fall into the "people who have everything" category. Consider this list of book-related gift ideas.
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Cheap Romantic Gift IdeasWhen my friend Sarah asked if I could think of inexpensive ways for her to show her boyfriend affection on their three-month anniversary (who celebrates that?), I sighed, veiled my pessimism thinly, and came up with a list of cheap romantic gift ideas.
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Montenegro Vacation: Visit Europe's Newest CountryThough leaning westward and modernizing carefully, Montenegro retains a rustic appeal that will only beckon more visitors as the nation gains more international name recognition.
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Travel Features for June 5, 2006: Fresh Takes on Popular PlacesThis week's Travel Features show us that popular topics can be covered from fresh angles.
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Proper Care for Eyeglasses: Tips for Frames and LensesGiven the cost of eyeglasses and the amount of time for which most people keep a prescription pair, it's important to care for them properly. Here are a few tips on taking care of both the lenses and the frames.
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Creative Letter Writing: Reflections on Stationery, Penmanship, Post Offices, and MoreCreative letter writing and all its considerations - including stationery, penmanship, and even a trip to the post office - represents a worthy but endangered means of expression, more potent and powerful as we move through a clinically electronic age.
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Macadamia Nut Oil and HealthIf you haven't visited the cooking oil section of your grocery store lately, you may have missed the more prominent shelf position of macadamia nut oil, increasingly touted for its nuanced flavour and health benefits.
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Free Prison Pen Pals: FAQsIf you're willing to suspend your suspicion for a moment, I'd like to share my prison pen pal experience and answer some frequently asked questions.
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Green Colleges: The Quest for an Environmentally Friendly CampusWith mounting evidence of global warming underscoring our dependence on fossil fuels and with the benefits of organic foods being touted by nutritionists, America's colleges are more seriously investigating how environmentally friendly they are.
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Would You Date Someone Who Smokes?A smoker acquaintance posed a question to me in no uncertain terms: "Would you date someone who smokes?" Naturally curious about the thoughts of others, I decided to ask an unscientific sampling of nonsmokers the same question that was posed to me.
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Is Renting Always "Throwing Money Away"?While buying a house or condo does turn out to be a wise investment for many people, it's simply untrue that renting is universally wasteful for everyone. In fact, I consider it to be a reasoned and even shrewd way for some of us to live.
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Bastille Day Party Ideas for July 14thAs an alternative to celebrating our own nation's birthday, why not celebrate the French national holiday - Bastille Day - a week and a half later? For the sake of a party, be novel and invoke all things even remotely French.
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Library and Information Science: Online Master's DegreesSome entire states lack library science programs to train their information professionals. People in these areas, as well as people already employed full-time, are beginning to pursue their library science degrees with a handful of 100% online programs.
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Dental Malpractice Cases: Should You Consult an Attorney?What happens if something goes wrong while you're reclined in that dentist's chair? If you suffered significant loss or pain at the hands of a negligent dentist, you should consult an attorney who specializes in dental malpractice cases.
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Finding a College Friendly to Minority Students: Ten TipsIf you come from a diverse cultural background, it's essential to select a college where you can find support and community. Here are some tips for researching and choosing a college if you are a student of diversity.
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Picking a College Size: Debunking Some Myths About Small CollegesOf the many factors students can weigh when selecting a college, one of the more critical but frequently overlooked is the institution's size.
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Namibian Nativity: Angelina Jolie's Baby Outpost is Africa's NamibiaGeographically averse Americans probably couldn't point to Namibia on a map, but that's poised to change: the almost unprecedented media attention Namibia is receiving due to the Pitt-Jolie baby affair is bound to jumpstart its fledgling tourist industry.
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Travel Features for May 29, 2006: From Spa to Spoleto, on a Greyhound?This week, we learn about spa etiquette, a small town in Umbria, and seeing (or not seeing) American from a Greyhound.
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Benzene Lawsuit Settlements: Are You Entitled to Compensation for Leukemia or Anemia?Despite reductions in industrial use, benzene remains a toxic agent at many job sites. Because high concentrations of benzene are linked to leukemia and blood disorders, benzene lawsuit settlements may be an option for financial recovery among victims.
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Credit Card Protection Insurance: A Bad Idea that Exploits ConsumersHow many of you have called a credit card company only to have an automated message or an agent try to sell you credit card protection insurance? This coverage is almost universally a poor investment, exploiting consumers instead of protecting them.
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Green Tourmaline Gemstone: Tips for Buying JewelryRequests for jewelry with green tourmaline gemstone have jumped in the last decade, with large rings and pendants becoming top sellers. If you're thinking about shopping for green tourmaline gemstone jewelry, here are some tips to keep in mind.
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City Safety Tips: Stay Secure but SaneTake these city safety tips seriously, but don't let the thought of theft or violent crime keep you from exploring new parts of the city.
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Unusual Baby Names from Literature - for GirlsIf you are hoping to name your daughter something lovely but still (relatively) rare, consider these potential baby names, all extracted from novels and plays.
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Unusual Baby Names from Literature - for BoysBooks abound with remarkable male names, so the literary canon is worth a look from prospective parents. Here are some of my favorite potential baby names taken from memorable male fictional characters in literature.
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Saltwater Taffy OriginsNow that I live in the Midwest, I rarely see saltwater taffy. That got me thinking: where did saltwater taffy originate, and why is it called saltwater taffy anyway? After all, the main ingredients in this sticky treat are neither salt nor water.
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Outsourced Telemarketing for Charities: Fundraising that Compromises Public GenerosityIf you donate to a charity that has called your home, where will your money really go? When outsourced telemarketing firms are used, it's possible than only a fraction of your pledge actually goes to the organization you are trying to support.
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Alaska Commercial Fishing JobsJobs are available at every step of the fishing industry chain - from catching to processing. While the work is gritty, it can be lucrative for people willing to relocate temporarily to Alaska.
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Does Colon Blow Work?Colon Blow is a colon cleanser and detoxifier that makes Metamucil seem as gentle as a light summer breeze. The makers have balanced humor with a serious health concern to create a product that, I must admit, is no crock of you-know-what.
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Travel Features for Monday, May 22Each week, I'll be reviewing recent travel-related additions to our library and spotlighting both new and veteran Content Producers. This week, we're going to Hungary - by way of West Virginia, Rhode Island, and Texas.
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MegaBus: Cheap Bus Fares for Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, Minneapolis and MoreApril 2006 marked the inauguration of American MegaBus routes, and the buses have since been zooming happy passengers between a handful of Midwestern cities for fares as low as $1.
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Identity Theft Insurance Policies: Are They Really Worthwhile?Look at identity theft insurance policies and what they cover. Chances are that, unless you have an extremely unusual and expensive situation, the added insurance is a wash designed to part you from some extra cash.
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Wedding Ring Alternatives: Tattoos, Nontraditional Jewelry, and MoreThough a public exchange of vows and accompanying jewelry is meaningful, there are plenty of wedding ring alternatives for both gay and straight couples who want something different
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Loudest Alarm Clocks in the WorldFor those heavy sleepers seeking the loudest alarm clocks in the world, here is a guide. At 95 decibels or higher, these clocks will probably wake up your neighbours too.
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Contact Lenses and Prescription Verification: Inadequate Consumer Protection for Online BuyersThe prescription verification practices employed by most online vendors of contact lenses are inadequate. They care more about selling their product than about ensuring your eye health.
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Effective Ways to Improve Vocabulary: Ten Tips for AdultsAre you lacking a way with words? Consider these ten tips for adults who want to build better vocabularies.
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Educational Placemats: How to Make Your OwnYou can make your own educational placemats for a fraction of the storebought cost by using your printer and some inexpensive supplies. The added benefit is that you and the child can select and format the content.
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Unusual Honeymoon Vacations: Five Uncommon LocationsFor couples wanting unusual honeymoon vacations, there are plenty of offbeat locations that allow for a combination of sightseeing and privacy - exploration and relaxation. Before you default to Cancun, Paris, or Vegas, consider these five destinations.
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EHarmony Discriminates Against Gays and LesbiansPractically everyone has heard of eHarmony.com, the personal matchmaking website started by Dr. Neil Clark Warren. But did you know that eHarmony excludes all gays and lesbians from its service?
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Couch Surfing: It's Not About FreeloadingAs I learned more about the couch surfing phenomenon, I realized that there's a culture of reciprocity and kinship in the couch surfing community and that most couch surfers aren't just freeloaders.
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How to Make Turkish Coffee with Your IbrikHere's a step-by-step guide on how to make Turkish coffee with your ibrik. And if you don't know what an ibrik is, don't worry - we'll cover that.
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T-Mobile HotSpot: Wireless Internet Service ReviewThe following is my review of T-Mobile's HotSpot wireless internet service, available at many Starbucks, Kinkos, and Borders locations.
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Homemade Mosquito RepellentBy using the oils and leaves of certain plants, you can create homemade mosquito repellent and avoid the dangers and smell of DEET.
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Gated Communities: What Are the Drawbacks?Are gated communities detrimental to society? It doesn't take a doctorate in sociology to consider some of drawbacks to building more walls and gates.
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Buy City Street SignsCollege students wanting a stop octagon, an orange construction sign, or just a personalized avenue sign can check out these websites to buy city street signs. And outside of college dorms, they're great for kids' rooms and recreation dens.
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Ethical Questions in Advertising and Marketing CareersBecause I like to see people question the status quo, I've compiled a list of ethical questions in advertising and marketing careers. While it's not exhaustive, I hope this will encourage people in the business to reflect on what they're doing.
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Creative Uses for Old T-ShirtsDo you have a pile of raggedy old t-shirts that you want to recycle creatively? Are you hanging on to t-shirts you love, even though they don't fit? If you're not ready to donate your old t-shirts to goodwill, there are plenty of creative uses for them.
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Aluminum and Copper Theft: Stealing for Scrap MetalDue to dramatic increases in rates for copper and aluminum, people are stealing for scrap metal all around the country. Gutters, radiators, downspouts, siding, wires, and AC coils are some of the popular booty.
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Air Beds Under $50: Cheap Air Mattresses with Pump IncludedAre you looking for an easy-to-store bed to offer your guests? Or perhaps you've just landed in a new city and are still shopping for a "real" bed? Whatever the reason, cheap air mattresses and air beds are available, pump included, for under $50.
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Escalators: Why Do We Have Them?Like most Americans, I've ridden escalators my whole life, yet I've never stopped to consider why we really have them.
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Iceland Honeymoon PackagesLet's look at some of the reasons to visit Iceland, the attractions that might interest honeymooners, and companies that offer travel packages appropriate for couples.
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Change Counter: Is Coinstar Worth It?The bright green Coinstar machines are convenient, fun, and easy to use, but are they the best change counters when you want to cash in?
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New Chicago Skyscraper Design: Fordham SpireDesigned by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the Fordham Spire would surpass both the box-shouldered Sears Tower in Chicago and the proposed dual-perspective Freedom Tower in New York to become America's tallest building at 2000 feet to the tip.
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Why I Stopped Drinking Alcohol: Reasons and Reflection from a NondrinkerIf you're not physically addicted to alcohol and you just don't enjoy drinking, what happens when you decide to quit? I've decided to share my thoughts as a new nondrinker, including the reasons why I stopped drinking alcohol.
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Kabul Afghanistan Safety: For AmericansWhatever your reason for visiting Kabul, you should make personal security a top priority. Here are some basic guidelines on Kabul Afghanistan safety for Americans.
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Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan: Gay Matchmaking and CultureKazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan lean slightly westward and harbor less hostility toward gays than their neighbors do. While not oases for gay matchmaking and culture, they have decriminalized homosexuality and allow gay clubs to stay open.
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Business Complaint Letter Format: Tips for Restaurant and Store ComplaintsWhether the problem lay with a product, the staff attitude, or a company policy, you should feel comfortable voicing your concerns to any business. If you're looking for a business complaint letter format, consider these tips for organizing your feedback.
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Aggressive Panhandling Forum: Types of Panhandlers and ResponsesI have assembled this homespun resource guide, which I call the "aggressive panhandling forum," to help you reflect on the types of panhandlers, responses, and avoidance strategies out there.
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Gay and Lesbian Bars in MelbourneGoing Down Under for a gay holiday? One of the queer hubs of Australia, Melbourne is the continent's second city, comparable in size to Chicago. Here are some of the popular gay and lesbian bars in Melbourne, Australia.
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Creative Uses for Metal Trash CansWhether you paint em for color, scour em for a beat-up look, or leave em as is, metal trash cans are good for more than just garbage. Here are ten creative uses for metal trash cans!
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Yerba Mate Tea and CancerFeaturing strong stimulant properties and a bitter earthy flavor, yerba mate tea is a celebrated, integral aspect of some South American cultures. But recently, scientists have begun to consider whether there a link between yerba mate tea and cancer.
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Asuncion Paraguay TransportationAlthough less instantly responsive to tourist transportation demands than Quito, Lima, and its other peers, Asuncion remains accessible. Here is a brief guide to Asuncion Paraguay transportation.
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Chihuahua Health Problems: Hydrocephalus, Patella Luxation, Trachea Collapse, and SeizuresThe Chihuahua is prone to medical issues that many owners realize only after they've purchased their pets. Common Chihuahua health problems include hydrocephalus (water-on-the-brain), patella luxation (a knee problem), trachea collapse, and seizures
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G4 Reforming UN: Japan, India, Germany, and Brazil on the Security Council?Many nations have argued that the current structure of the UN Security Council needs reform. By the early 2000s, the G4, comprised of Japan, India, Germany, and Brazil, began leading the charge for reforming the UN Security Council.
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The Hot Men of TV News: Anchors, Hosts and Reporters on CNN, NBC, and MoreHere are just a few of the apparent hot men of TV news. I've included a handful of anchors, hosts, and reporters from CNN, NBC, ABC, and CBS - men whose names came up over and over during a poll of friends and colleagues.
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Cheap, Creative Plant Containers: 25 IdeasRegular pots seem boring when compared to these reconceived ordinary objects. These creative plant containers include many items you may already have lying around an attic, garage, or cupboard, while others can be cheaply procured at a thrift store.
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The Ugly Ceiling Fan: A Decorating ChallengeIt seems like most apartments and houses come with at least one: the tragically ugly ceiling fan. How do you handle this decorating challenge?
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Promote Your Content OnlineSo you've just been published on Associated Content! While it's exciting to know that your content is now live, how are people going to find it? Here is an introduction to some of the tools you can use to promote your content online.
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New Ideas to Decorate Your CeilingThings are looking up for your décor - literally. If you're bored with a room, perhaps it's time for something for something unusual. Perhaps it's time to decorate your ceiling! Try these inventive ideas.
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Creative Photo Mat IdeasUsing these creative photo mat ideas, you can shape an original border to reside within your frame.
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Creative Uses for Carpet Tiles and SquaresCarpet tiles and squares have become indispensable tools for creative budget decorators. These easily manipulated pieces, ranging from one to several square feet in area, can be affixed to various surfaces.
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Safe Travel to Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, CambodiaAlthough, it remains one of the poorer countries in Southeast Asia, lagging behind better-developed Vietnam and Thailand, Cambodia now provides for safe travel to Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat complex.
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Vietnam Ecotourism Planning: Responsible TravelAlongside the development of an infrastructure for travel in Vietnam, specific demand for ecotourism has grown. Here are some of the companies engaged in Vietnam ecotourism planning.
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Brazil Ecotourism: Rainforest and WetlandsIf you want to do something besides sun yourself in Rio, consider Brazil ecotourism. These are just three of the standout Brazil ecotourism sites in the freshwater wetlands or Atlantic rainforest of this hospitable country.
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Ways to Send Money Abroad: International Wire Transfers and MoreWhen you need to send money abroad through an international wire transfer or web service, these are some of the most reputable ways to do it. At least one of these companies can help you get money to friends, family, or charitable organizations in need.
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Ecotourism Frequently Asked QuestionsAs a new way to look at travel and education, ecotourism now has buzzword status among many world travelers, tourism companies, foreign governments, and environmental activists. Here are some frequently asked questions about ecotourism.
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Creative Ways to Dump: Break Up Ideas for Boyfriends and GirlfriendsAre you too original, cunning, witty, mischievous, or spiteful to break up with your boyfriend or girlfriend through a conventional heart-to-heart conversation? If so, then check out these creative ways to dump.
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American Telegram: Reasons People are Still Sending TelegramsThousands of individuals and businesses still use telegram service for pressing legal reasons, unusual emergency situations, political statements, and more dramatic communication of personal messages.