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      <title>Articles by Rob Parker on ArticleSnatch.com</title>
      <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/profile/Rob-Parker/11494</link>
      <description>Rob Parker is an author at ArticleSnatch.com Article Directory.  Below are the most recent articles from Rob Parker.  For more of articles by Rob Parker please use the link above.</description>
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<link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/profile/Rob-Parker/11494</link>
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<title>Articles by Rob Parker on ArticleSnatch.com</title>
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         <title>The Crazies on Answering Systems</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/The-Crazies-on-Answering-Systems/342545</link>
         <description>Are you tired of hearing lengthy instructions from automated systems and long, boring personal messages? I don’t know about you, but it’s such a huge time waster that it’s making me crazy.

Believe it or not – it’s now a fact – up to 70% of the time the person you’re calling won’t be there – and if they are they don’t pick up. Who is interested or has the time to listen to instructions on what button to push to get to Mr. Jones and then listen to his message as well. All you want to do is get someone live to speak to – right - and you’ll do anything (like me) – you’ll keep pressing “0” until you’re blue in the face. Whether we like it or not, the old answering machine has been replaced by automated voice mail systems and in many cases the receptionist has too - and the receptionist may not have been that great either – but that’s for another article. 

Due to automated answering systems companies are not only putting callers off but also losing business as well. Do they save money? I doubt it.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/personal+image" rel="tag">personal image</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> A great way to educate your staff about the do's and donâts of the business scene is to send them to a &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.PremiereImageIntl.com/&quot;&gt;business etiquette seminar&lt;/a&gt; .</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[personal image]]></category>
         <pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/The-Crazies-on-Answering-Systems/342545</guid>
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         <title>Malaysian Rubber Wood, and why is it a good choice for bathrooms.</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Malaysian-Rubber-Wood--and-why-is-it-a-good-choice-for-bathrooms-/341991</link>
         <description>When it comes to the most used rooms in your house, you want to be sure that you obtain the most durable pieces of furniture out there. Consider the following facts:

The bathrooms in your house are in use every single day.
Your bathrooms are one of the only rooms that are guaranteed to see a lot of use not only by you and your family, but by any visitors you have as well.
Bathrooms are one of the main selling points of any home.
The furniture in bathrooms is subjected not only to a lot of wear and tear in terms of use, but also due to environmental conditions. The bathroom is the most humid room in any house, therefore any piece of furniture or fixtures in it are subject to extremely wearing conditions.

From that list, we can make two conclusions. The first is that many eyes will look at the furniture in your bathroom. The second is that if this furniture is not manufactured from the most durable materials possible, your bathroom will not leave a favourable impression on those who use it.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/Bathroom+Renovations" rel="tag">Bathroom Renovations</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> If you are looking for something to update those dreary old &lt;a
href=&quot;http://www.BathNuvo.com&quot;&gt;vanity cabinets&lt;/a&gt; , consider updating with
modern glass or stone basins and brushed nickel faucets.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[Bathroom Renovations]]></category>
         <pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Malaysian-Rubber-Wood--and-why-is-it-a-good-choice-for-bathrooms-/341991</guid>
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         <title>Benefits of Leather versus Cloth Laptop Cases</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Benefits-of-Leather-versus-Cloth-Laptop-Cases/341654</link>
         <description>When it comes to the purchase of a case for carrying your laptop computer, there are several considerations that you need to keep in mind. In this article, we are going to take a look at these considerations in light of the material that is best suited to meet your needs when it comes to your laptop case.

Protection. First and foremost, you want to make sure that your laptop is well protected. This means that when it comes to a carrying case, you have to think about incidental contact, perhaps dropping, and exposure to the elements, including water, sun, and heat. For all of these protective concerns, it is a leather carrying case that will provide the most security for your expensive laptop computer. Considering the properties of leather, it has any type of cloth beaten by a country mile. Tough, resistant to soaking, and durable, leather provides the ideal barrier between your computer and any potentially damaging agents.

Durability. As we mentioned above, leather is one of the most durable materials around. It is guaranteed to outlast cloth over any period of time.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/handbags" rel="tag">handbags</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Double pocket &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.bagjunkieonline.com/&quot;&gt;leather saddle bags&lt;/a&gt; have many features such as a cellphone pocket and magnetic closures - a perfect addition to anyoneâs handbag collection.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[handbags]]></category>
         <pubDate>Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Benefits-of-Leather-versus-Cloth-Laptop-Cases/341654</guid>
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         <title>Why it is Important to Check if a Contractor has Liability Insurance</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Why-it-is-Important-to-Check-if-a-Contractor-has-Liability-Insurance/341598</link>
         <description>When it comes to hiring a contractor, most people have a basic check list that they go through in order to ensure that the individual they hire does not end up causing more work, hassle, and costs than the project should entail. Whether you are looking for someone to do your landscaping, build a house, put in a new deck, erect a fence, paint, or do some repairs, you probably have checked some reference and have an idea how their costs stack up.

One thing that many home owners forget to check when it comes to hiring a contractor for their work is whether or not the individual carries liability insurance. This can be a big mistake on the part of the homeowner, because failure to carry liability insurance on the part of the contractor can mean that the person who hired her or him is responsible for any financial court costs if injuries occur as a result of work on your property.

You might think that injuries are unlikely, but you just never know what might happen on a job site.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/home+improvements" rel="tag">home improvements</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Are you looking for a general contractor in the area that does &lt;a href=&quot;http//www.canadahomeimprovements.com&quot;&gt;basement finishing Brampton&lt;/a&gt; homeowners put their trust in a company whose president has over 30 years experience in the business.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[home improvements]]></category>
         <pubDate>Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Why-it-is-Important-to-Check-if-a-Contractor-has-Liability-Insurance/341598</guid>
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         <title>Why Danforth Village makes an Excellent Community for First Time Home Buyers</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Why-Danforth-Village-makes-an-Excellent-Community-for-First-Time-Home-Buyers/341592</link>
         <description>North of the Upper Beaches district in Toronto lays the newly christened area Danforth Village. This quiet neighbourhood was officially sanctioned with the creation of the Danforth Village Business Improvement area in mid-2006, an area that seeks to bring in additional business to the community. 

Danforth Village is known as one of the best places in Toronto for first time homebuyers to get a foot in the door when it comes to the real estate market. In this article we will take a look at some of the reasons why.

The houses are affordable! If you are a first time homebuyer who has been looking around the Toronto area for some time, you understand how very frustrating the process can be. It is pretty likely that you have been approved for a mortgage amount that just will not cover the payments you need to make each month on houses in many Toronto districts. Danforth Village is one of the exceptions to the generally expensive rule of Toronto real estate. The housing in this area remains within the price range of the average first time buyer, and as with other real estate, rising prices will allow owners to upgrade over time.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/riverdale+real+estate" rel="tag">riverdale real estate</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Whether you're looking at Cabbagetown, The Annex, Danforth Village, Lawrence Park or &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.bosleyrealestate.com&quot;&gt;Rosedale Toronto real estate&lt;/a&gt; , contact a company that employs some of the top agents in the Toronto Real Estate Board.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[riverdale real estate]]></category>
         <pubDate>Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Why-Danforth-Village-makes-an-Excellent-Community-for-First-Time-Home-Buyers/341592</guid>
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         <title>Ford Leading the Way in the Automotive Materials of Tomorrow</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Ford-Leading-the-Way-in-the-Automotive-Materials-of-Tomorrow/340466</link>
         <description>The Ford Motor Company, as part of its evolving commitment to make its products environmentally friendly over the entire life and operation of the vehicle, is conducting experiments with plastics that are both bio-based and biodegradable. The end goal is to produce interior parts that will essentially dissolve when their working lives have come to an end Speaking at the Ward's Auto Interiors Show in June, the technical leader of the company's materials research and advanced engineering department admitted the goal is both difficult and long-term one.

As quoted by Auto News, Deborah Mielewski said, "It's the big project. Before I retire, I want to reach the point where we stop making automotive plastics that are thrown into the landfill and last forever." Last year Ford began to implement a urethane foam blend based on soybeans first used in the Mustang and now present in half a dozen other models. While much of the media emphasis is on lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency, vehicles can continue to pollute the environment for decades as they slowly decay in junkyards and garbage dumps all over the world.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/cars" rel="tag">cars</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Learn all you ever wanted to know about every car in your price range, from a &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.carseek.com/reviews/bmw/&quot;&gt;BMW&lt;/a&gt; to a Hyundai.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[cars]]></category>
         <pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Ford-Leading-the-Way-in-the-Automotive-Materials-of-Tomorrow/340466</guid>
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         <title>Hang Up and Drive!</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Hang-Up-and-Drive-/340463</link>
         <description>"Hang up and drive!" It's something almost all of us have shouted while sitting behind a car with a driver too absorbed in a cell phone chat to pay attention to the fact that the light has turned green, the lane is ending, or any number of other road-related issues. 

Cell phone usage isn't the only distraction in our lives as motorists, of course. Other distractions include eating behind the wheel, putting on make-up, or dealing with small children. In fact a recent report released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that about 80% of actual crashes and 65% of near-crashes were caused by some kind of inattention from the driver during the three seconds immediately preceding the event, and another survey, this time provided by Nationwide Insurance, found that 98% of American drivers claim to be safe, while also admitting to often driving while distracted.

The number one cause of that distraction? You guessed it: the cell phone.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/hands+free+devices" rel="tag">hands free devices</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Driving less won't just save you money on gas this summer, it could also get you &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.houstoncars.org/cheapautosinsurance-review.php&quot;&gt;cheaper car insurance&lt;/a&gt; rates. Let us show you why.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[hands free devices]]></category>
         <pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Hang-Up-and-Drive-/340463</guid>
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         <title>Old Cars, Insurance, and You</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Old-Cars--Insurance--and-You/340456</link>
         <description>Whether you're driving a brand new Lexus, a five-year-old Honda, or the truly ancient Volkswagen Rabbit you've had since college, auto insurance is critical. Not only do most states require at least minimum liability in order for you to drive legally at all, but if you should get into an accident without insurance, you wouldn't be able to replace it. 

When you are purchasing a brand new car, or renewing the coverage on a car you've only had for a year or so, your coverage choices are made for you, for the most part, because your finance company will require total protection. When you have an older car, however, there's a temptation to reduce your coverage. After all, you don't comprehensive coverage on a car that costs less to replace than you pay in premiums…do you? Still, there are a few things you should consider before stripping your insurance policy down to the legally-required minimums.

Protection for You and Your Passengers

Whether your car is old or new, cheap or extravagantly expensive, you need to be able to protect anyone who may be hurt in an accident.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/motor+insurance" rel="tag">motor insurance</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Curious about the difference between &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.carseek.com/finance/&quot;&gt;auto loans&lt;/a&gt; and auto leases? It's all explained at this helpful website.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[motor insurance]]></category>
         <pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Old-Cars--Insurance--and-You/340456</guid>
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         <title>What to Expect at the Taste of the Danforth</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/What-to-Expect-at-the-Taste-of-the-Danforth/339814</link>
         <description>One of the most important and most well known of Toronto’s many thoroughfares is Danforth Avenue. This is one of the city’s original streets, and it runs through some of the most culturally diverse and significant parts of the metropolis. This street has such an important place in the hearts and minds of the people of Toronto that it is simply referred to as The Danforth among locals. Each year since 1994, the street has hosted the popular Taste of the Danforth festival now hosted in August. This three-day celebration is incredibly popular, and has drawn over a million people over the period on certain years.

The history

Taste of the Danforth was conceived through the influence of a similar American festival, Taste of Chicago. The idea to create a similar festival in Toronto was the brainchild of three owners of Greek restaurants along the Danforth. They presented their idea to the president of Krino’s Foods, who agreed to sponsor the festival for five years.

The first festival was a moderate success; although the weather was not great, 5,000 people attended over three days.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/tornot+real+estate" rel="tag">tornot real estate</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]>  &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.SoldByTimAndBrian.com&quot;&gt;Riverdale Toronto homes&lt;/a&gt; come in many sizes and with different amenities.
Speak with realtors that will find exactly the home you are looking for.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[tornot real estate]]></category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/What-to-Expect-at-the-Taste-of-the-Danforth/339814</guid>
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         <title>What is the Halton Hills Employment Corridor?</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/What-is-the-Halton-Hills-Employment-Corridor-/339806</link>
         <description>All over Canada, rural communities in particular are beginning to see increased growth rates. As housing becomes less affordable in major cities, many people who find employment in these cities are seeking to relocate and commute, or else find new jobs in more affordable, less “busy” centres. The community of Halton is a good example of a town that has benefited as far as growth rate from the ”urban push”. The town experienced a rapid growth rate of 15% in the years between the 2001 and 2006 Canadian censuses. As a community, Halton Hills has undertaken to ensure that the beauty and geography are not compromised by growth in the future.

In keeping with this commitment, municipal officials drew up a plan for Halton development, which included formulas for both residential and employment growth. In 2006, the provincial government of Ontario recognized officially the danger that urban sprawl posed to both green areas and agricultural areas with the Greenbelt and Places to Grow legislation it ushered in. This piece of legislation was to narrow the focus and put a very definite structure in place for towns such as Halton Hills.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/Halton+Hills" rel="tag">Halton Hills</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> If you are looking at &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.PeterZavitz.com&quot;&gt;Erin real
estate&lt;/a&gt; , you can save time by first narrowing your selection to
single family homes or condominiums.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[Halton Hills]]></category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/What-is-the-Halton-Hills-Employment-Corridor-/339806</guid>
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         <title>How did Ajax Become the First ISO 9001 Quality Community in Ontario?</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/How-did-Ajax-Become-the-First-ISO-9001-Quality-Community-in-Ontario-/339802</link>
         <description>The town of Ajax in Ontario is certainly a Canadian city success story on many different levels. The community has only actually been in real existence for just over six decades, but during that time it has seen rapid growth, today boasting a population of over 95,000 people. Of course, this kind of growth has not come without some pains; Ajax was widely criticized for its suburban sprawl and it failure to meet needed infrastructure plans during the 80s and ‘90s. With the kind of growth experienced by the town, turned city during this time, it is easy to see why planning for that kind of population boom would be difficult for city officials.

However, the municipal government of Ajax has since turned these challenges into success stories to match that of the growth and economy of the city. There are many examples of the ways in which Ajax has turned massive growth into pioneering opportunities, none of which shines more brightly than the new Fire Department building. This project is a great example and illustration of the measures, which the community itself has taken to become sustainable and productive over the last few decades.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/Ajax" rel="tag">Ajax</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> If you are new to the area, contact an representative that has MLS listings
plus &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.sellinghomesindurham.com/&quot;&gt;Royal Lepage real estate.
Oshawa&lt;/a&gt; 
is a thriving city and contacting a knowledgable realtor will help you
find a neighbourhood that is close to all amenities you are looking for.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[Ajax]]></category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/How-did-Ajax-Become-the-First-ISO-9001-Quality-Community-in-Ontario-/339802</guid>
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         <title>Why a Chamber of Commerce is Important for Communities such as Whitby</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Why-a-Chamber-of-Commerce-is-Important-for-Communities-such-as-Whitby/339797</link>
         <description>A thriving community such as Whitby can only remain strong and thriving in today’s competitive world with the proper integration of business from throughout the Durham region, the province of Ontario, and the country at large. Indeed, a town of over 112,000 people can expect not only for current businesses to thrive, but also for new businesses to start up. In order for these businesses to reach their greatest potential, and therefore to benefit the citizens through employment and economic opportunities, it is necessary to have organizations such as a Chamber of Commerce in place.

The goals of a Chamber of Commerce

In order to understand the benefits of a Chamber for a community such as Whitby, it is necessary to examine the goals of a Chamber of Commerce in any town. We will examine these below.

Promotion of trade within the local area. First and foremost, a chamber of commerce can serve as a way for businesses within the same community to connect. These connections may be beneficial for businesses in terms of acquiring more affordable services and of course expanding a client base.

Obtaining information.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/business" rel="tag">business</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> If you have just been transferred to the area, and are not sure where
to start looking for a home, contact a realtor who will be able to
locate &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.HomesWhitby.com&quot;&gt;Oshawa condos&lt;/a&gt; and homes
that are close to your new workplace.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[business]]></category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Why-a-Chamber-of-Commerce-is-Important-for-Communities-such-as-Whitby/339797</guid>
      </item>
      <item>
         <title>Glass Sinks - Beautiful and Practical.</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Glass-Sinks---Beautiful-and-Practical-/339796</link>
         <description>Are you building or renovating your home, and looking to add those little touches that will truly call attention to your lifestyle as unique? One great concept in the area of home design and decoration is the design of the glass sink. These contemporary designs are in keeping with the latest bathroom styles today. In particular demand are the beautiful curves and character setting sinks designed around the vanity model, stand alone vessels and faucets unencumbered by attached cabinets and wall fixtures.

The demand for such furniture is obvious, and a trip to any retailer store or (better yet) internet retailer will demonstrate why. The stand-alone vanity takes a house out of the age of clutter and back into a time when bathrooms were all about space and simplicity, although they still contained a simple elegance that was appealing from the middle classes all the way up to royalty.

Today’s vanities come in many different styles. Among the most popular are pedestal style models, which include the vessel (or bowl) of the sink and the faucets, seated with a ceramic structure, which glides up from the floor.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/Bathroom+Renovations" rel="tag">Bathroom Renovations</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Before you start that next renovation project, you should decide on your &lt;a
href=&quot;http://www.BathNuvo.com&quot;&gt;bathroom furniture. Vanities&lt;/a&gt; now come in
a variety of styles and finishes, with an assortment of faucets to
choose from</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[Bathroom Renovations]]></category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Glass-Sinks---Beautiful-and-Practical-/339796</guid>
      </item>
      <item>
         <title>Burglary 101 - How to Protect Your Home and Belongings</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Burglary-101---How-to-Protect-Your-Home-and-Belongings/339346</link>
         <description>While insurance claims are filed for many reasons, one of the most devastating is when the reason is a burglary. Why? Because not only have your possessions been taken without your permission, but your home has literally been invaded. 

More than six million American homes are burgled each year, and no one is immune. To help protect yourself and your home, first, there are a couple of things you should know, and then there are some things you can do.

What You Should Know

Many people feel that they are not a target for burglary because they aren't rich. The reality is, everyone is a target. If you own a television, computer, iPod, or camera, or even a radio and a DVD player, a burglar will happily take your things, either to keep or to sell, and targeted items aren't limited to electronics, either - jewelry, shoes, and even some kinds of pets are all at risk of being stolen. 

You should also be aware that darkness isn't necessary for burglars, though privacy is. Given the choice of an empty house during the day time, or an occupied house at night, the average burglar will choose the former every time.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/Insurance" rel="tag">Insurance</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> If your company doesn't offer benefits, you may want to look into an &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.insurancespecialists.com/health-insurance/&quot;&gt;individual health insurance&lt;/a&gt; plan. They're not always expensive, but they are always helpful.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[Insurance]]></category>
         <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Burglary-101---How-to-Protect-Your-Home-and-Belongings/339346</guid>
      </item>
      <item>
         <title>2009 Corvette ZR1 to Incorporate Carbon Fiber Components</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/2009-Corvette-ZR1-to-Incorporate-Carbon-Fiber-Components/339344</link>
         <description>General Motors plans to use the 2009 Corvette ZR1 as a test platform for the incorporation of carbon fiber parts in high-volume vehicles. Carbon fiber, a material first used in the racing world, has the advantage of weighing 50% less than steel. Although it is expensive, carbon fiber could be the answer to bringing down body weight, a crucial component in meeting the new federally mandated standards for higher fuel efficiency. The recently set corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) levels call for a fleet average of 35 mpg to be achieved by 2020.

Designers at General Motors predict that it may take as long as a decade to truly understand the potential carbon fiber holds for vehicle manufacturing. The company's first use of carbon fiber was in the 2004 Corvette Z06 Commemorative Edition, where the outer hood was fabricated of the material. The 2009 ZR1 will include the use of several key carbon fiber parts including: hood and roof, front and back spoilers, front fenders, and side rocker panels. Overall, the weight of the sports car will be brought down 35 lbs. For instance, the roof panel and roof bow, come in 7.7 lbs.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/cars" rel="tag">cars</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> The first step in shopping for a new vehicle is to find top notch &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.carseek.com/reviews/&quot;&gt;car reviews&lt;/a&gt; . We can help.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[cars]]></category>
         <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/2009-Corvette-ZR1-to-Incorporate-Carbon-Fiber-Components/339344</guid>
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         <title>Driving Abroad â What You Should Know</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Driving-Abroad-----What-You-Should-Know/338531</link>
         <description>With summer comes vacations, but if your destination lies outside the United States or Canada, and you plan to drive while you're abroad, make sure you're well-prepared, both for new rules of the road, and different insurance requirements. Here are some tips for making your vacation driving safer.

Be Prepared
The boy scouts' motto is extremely applicable to a foreign vacation, especially if you plan to be driving. Before you take off, hit the computer and the bookstore and do a bit of preparation. Specifically:

Reserve your rental car as early as possible. Not only will this give you ample time to ask questions about general driving conditions in the country you will be visiting, auto insurance requirements, and any other details you might want, you may get a discounted rate for planning ahead.

Map it. Even if your rental car company promises a vehicle with GPS, a good map is invaluable. Buy one when you're still planning your vacation to help choose activities and places of interest.

Go shopping for auto insurance. There are insurance companies that offer short-term auto insurance coverage in foreign countries for less money than the insurance offered by rental car companies. 

Do some research.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/travel" rel="tag">travel</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Did you know that taking a &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.cheapautosinsurance.com/defensive_driving.htm&quot;&gt;defensive driving&lt;/a&gt; class when you don't have a ticket to clear can actually net you a discount on your insurance? Learn more.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
         <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Driving-Abroad-----What-You-Should-Know/338531</guid>
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         <title>Pet-Proof Your House</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Pet-Proof-Your-House/338499</link>
         <description>We have insurance for our homes, cars, and medical needs, but when it comes to our pets, an illness or injury generally means paying money to the vet. One way to minimize your chances of a vet visit is to make sure your home is pet-safe. Unlike child-proofing, pet-proofing doesn't involve buying outlet covers, it just means following some common-sense guidelines. 

String Theory: Ribbon, twine, dental floss, and string can all be ingested by your pet, either intentionally or accidentally, and when that happens, the string can get stuck in their intestinal tract and cause serious – even fatal – damage. Be sure to store thread and yarn in secure places, vacuum often, and at Christmas time, skip the tinsel.

Food for Thought: Many foods that we humans eat with no problems, among them macadamia nuts, grapes, chocolate, avocado, coffee, and onions are toxic for pets, as are several common house plants (lilies are toxic for cats, for example). Keep all food away from your animals, and resist the urge to feed them table scraps.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/Insurance" rel="tag">Insurance</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Talking about &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.insurancespecialists.com/industry-articles/universal-health-care/&quot;&gt;universal health care&lt;/a&gt; isn't just a key issue in this year's political campaigns it's something we all need to consider. In the event of an illness, is your family protected?</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[Insurance]]></category>
         <pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Pet-Proof-Your-House/338499</guid>
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         <title>Considering a Motorcycle as a Money-Saving Measure?  Think Again</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Considering-a-Motorcycle-as-a-Money-Saving-Measure---Think-Again/338425</link>
         <description>There's a new trend among websites offering tips for saving money in the face of the rising cost of gasoline (the cheap stuff is hovering around the 4.00 mark in certain oil states, but for most of the rest of the U.S. it's significantly over that ): buy a motorcycle or scooter, and save money. After all, small bikes and scooters get huge amounts of miles per gallon - certain models of Honda Rebels, for example, routinely go 75 miles on a single gallon of gas - and many larger bikes average over 50. 

What these money-saving tipsters fail to convey, however, is that while those zippy little scooters can have their tanks filled for $20, if you don't already own one, adding one to your personal transportation fleet isn't going to save you money. It's going to cost you money in the long run. 

Here's why:

Before you can use a motorcycle or scooter for in-town transportation, you have to own one. A small (250cc) motorcycle will cost around $3,500. Scooters range from $2,000 for a 50cc model to around $7,000 for a 250cc vehicle.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/motor+insurance" rel="tag">motor insurance</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> What makes one insurance company better than the next? Read our &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.carinsurancelist.com/auto-insurance-reviews.htm&quot;&gt;auto insurance reviews&lt;/a&gt; and decide for yourself.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[motor insurance]]></category>
         <pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Considering-a-Motorcycle-as-a-Money-Saving-Measure---Think-Again/338425</guid>
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         <title>Got a Boat? Better Get Insurance!</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Got-a-Boat--Better-Get-Insurance-/334574</link>
         <description>April showers may bring May flowers, but they also bring the reminder that warm days are approaching; days that are meant to be spent on the water, in what is for many their prized possession: a boat. 

While most adults are paying close attention to rising costs of their daily trips to and from work, or watching the housing market to be certain they aren't losing value in their homes, boat aficionados have other concerns. In fact, according to a survey of over a thousand boat owners that was conducted by Progressive Insurance Company, almost half of them bought their boats before they purchased cars or houses. 

While that's great for the boaters, and most boat owners say that their biggest concern is finding time to sail, there is a bigger issue looming on the horizon. You see, most boaters purchased their vessels before they finished college (19%), married (28%) or had children (30%), and in those carefree days of sailing off into the sunset with a bottle of Chablis and a group of laughing friends, the last thing on their minds was insurance.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/insurance" rel="tag">insurance</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Everyone gets a little frustrated in bad traffic, but do you know how to recognize and deal with &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.carinsurancelist.com/article-road-rage.htm&quot;&gt;road rage&lt;/a&gt; ? It's not as difficult as you think.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[insurance]]></category>
         <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Got-a-Boat--Better-Get-Insurance-/334574</guid>
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         <title>Cutting Edge Diesel Emissions Control from Honda</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Cutting-Edge-Diesel-Emissions-Control-from-Honda/334568</link>
         <description>In 2009 Honda plans to introduce passenger vehicles simultaneously in Japan and the United States that will employ a highly advanced diesel engine technology designed to fulfill U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards in all 50 states. Initially, a diesel Honda Accord will be offered, with the CR-V likely to be the second Honda vehicle to receive the engine. Future plans call for a diesel version of the Maxima, a planned cooperative venture with Renault. The stand-out feature of the Honda technology is that these engines, unlike products by competitors, do not require the addition of urea to function.

Honda first announced the diesel Accord at the Tokyo auto show in 2007. The vehicle features an aluminum 2.2-liter engine producing 150 horsepower with 260 lb. ft. of torque. Unlike similar diesels made by companies like Mercedes and Volkswagen, the Honda engines will not require replenishment with AdBlue urea liquid to ensure system function and efficient emissions control. The new engines have a NOx converter that, through a chemical reaction, produces its own ammonia while giving off nothing more than harmless nitrogen and water.

The NOx converter consists of two substrate layers on its honeycombed matrix.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/cars" rel="tag">cars</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Today's &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.carseek.com/&quot;&gt;cars&lt;/a&gt; are changing more rapidly than ever before. Which technology is best for you -- diesel or hybrid? Letâs find out.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[cars]]></category>
         <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Cutting-Edge-Diesel-Emissions-Control-from-Honda/334568</guid>
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         <title>How to Save on Motorbike Insurance</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/How-to-Save-on-Motorbike-Insurance/334567</link>
         <description>It's no secret that there are almost as many ways to save money on auto insurance as there are insurance companies, but what many people don't realize is that many of the same money saving tips that apply to car insurance are applicable to motorcycle insurance as well. 

Here are just a few: 

A less expensive bike means less expensive insurance. Just as luxury cars cost more to insure than economy cars, so too do expensive motorcycles cost more to maintain and repair, as well as insure. If you're a casual rider, consider a mid-range bike. 

Bundling policies can save you money. It's no secret that bundling your home and auto insurance with one company nets you a significant discount, but this savings applies to motorcycle insurance as well. 

A higher deductible means lower premiums. Deductibles and premiums are inversely proportional no matter what you're insuring - cars, trucks, motorcycles, houses - if you are comfortable with the concept of paying more out of pocket if you have an insurance claim, increasing the deductible can significantly reduce your annual premium.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/motor+insurance" rel="tag">motor insurance</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Having a cell phone with unlimited minutes does little good if you don't have a &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.carinsurancelist.com/article-roadside-assistance.htm&quot;&gt;roadside assistance&lt;/a&gt; plan to go with it. Get one, and never worry about being stranded again.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[motor insurance]]></category>
         <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/How-to-Save-on-Motorbike-Insurance/334567</guid>
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         <title>Air Bag Safety - Not Just Hot Air</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Air-Bag-Safety---Not-Just-Hot-Air/333936</link>
         <description>According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), protective air bags installed in automobiles save thousands of lives every year and reduce deaths among drivers and passengers by roughly 30 and 27 percent, respectively in frontal crashes. 

For most of us the presence of air bags is a good thing, but there is a significant segment of the population for whom the activation of an air age can mean serious injury and even death. Those at risk include small children sitting in the front seat of a car, especially if they're not wearing safety belts, small adults who must sit close to the steering wheel in order to reach the pedals, obese adults and pregnant women, and the elderly. As well, while it is generally recommended that infants ride in rear-facing baby seats when they're in the back seat of a car, when the same seats are placed in a car's front seat, there is risk of severe head trauma if the bag deploys. 

Reducing the Risk of Air Bar-Induced Injuries

While air bags can be deactivated, there are less extreme methods of reducing the likelihood of an air-bag related injury. They include: 

Move the seat back.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/motor+insurance" rel="tag">motor insurance</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Speeding tickets don't have to ruin your &lt;a href=&quot;http://studentorgs.vanderbilt.edu/alphaphialpha/index_files/article.htm&quot;&gt;car choice&lt;/a&gt; . Learn how you can offset their impact with defensive driving classes.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[motor insurance]]></category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Air-Bag-Safety---Not-Just-Hot-Air/333936</guid>
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         <title>OnStar Becomes an Anti-Theft Device</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/OnStar-Becomes-an-Anti-Theft-Device/333917</link>
         <description>According to the FBI, over a million cars are reported stolen each year, and according to the National Highway Traffic Association, those stolen vehicles result in roughly 30,000 police chases which in turn cause 300 deaths. All of those numbers are grim, but so are the financial realities of what a stolen car does to your insurance. Either your rates will increase, or you'll have to spend long hours fighting to get the money you deserve, and neither option is terribly attractive. It's a no-brainer, then, that security and anti-theft devices are a must-have, but did you know that General Motors' OnStar system is one such feature? 

Originally introduced as emerging technology in October, 2007, the OnStar service in question is called Stolen Vehicle Slowdown, and it represents just one facet of the services stolen vehicle recovery methods. It works by allowing OnStar personnel working in tandem with the police to send a signal to a stolen vehicle, causing the engine to gradually reduce power until the car, truck or SUV comes to a safe stop.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/insurance" rel="tag">insurance</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> For the first time in 22 years, Texas has increased the minimum required &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.autoreader.net/2008/03/29/looking-for-automobiles-insurance/&quot;&gt;liability insurance&lt;/a&gt; . Do you know what the minimums are for your state? Do you have enough?</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[insurance]]></category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/OnStar-Becomes-an-Anti-Theft-Device/333917</guid>
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         <title>What is meant by Craft Services for the Film Industry?</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/What-is-meant-by-Craft-Services-for-the-Film-Industry-/327782</link>
         <description>If you have ever been on the set of a television, film, or video production, then one thing that you are sure to have noticed is that these are very busy places. Any type of large or even medium sized production is sure to have dozens or hundreds of different people working on different areas of the film, and they are not all – or even mostly – areas where you are likely to see someone come up and get an Oscar on a Sunday night (although they do earn Oscars, it’s just not part of the public perception).

Most of the “hidden” areas of film production fall under what are termed as crafts; those parts of film development that the average person is not likely to read about in the credits. These jobs are usually filled by trained and skilled professionals – those in charge of art direction, makeup, props, camera, electricians, and so on. It is important to recognize the distinction of these areas termed crafts from others as they are represented by separate unions and have different needs than other areas of the film industry such as design, directing, writing, acting, and so on.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/event+planning" rel="tag">event planning</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Some catering companies in Burlington not only prepare your food but also provide &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.bbqcatering.com/&quot;&gt;Burlington tent rental&lt;/a&gt; services and will help you with your set up.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[event planning]]></category>
         <pubDate>Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/What-is-meant-by-Craft-Services-for-the-Film-Industry-/327782</guid>
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         <title>What is Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) And can it help with my depression?</title>
         <link>http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/What-is-Interpersonal-Psychotherapy--IPT--And-can-it-help-with-my-depression-/327770</link>
         <description>In today’s busy world, more and more people are finding that they are subjected to periods of depression. The symptoms indicating some form of depression have been seen in all walks of life, from adolescents to successful business people and stay at home parents. The range of depression symptoms in people is widely varied, from mild (if frequent) mood swings indicating a minor condition such as cyclothymia to the frequent, wild, and unpredictable “highs” and “lows” of bipolar disorder.

Since the noticeable increase in cases of clinical depression in the 1980s, therapists and other professionals have come up with a variety of ways to treat and alleviate symptoms and allow patients to combat their depression and mood swings. These strategies include everything from medication to behaviour modification therapy.

One relatively recent, and surprisingly successful, innovation in the treatment of individuals with depression is termed Interpersonal Therapy. In this article, we will take a look at what exactly this strategy is and why it is effective.

The development of IPT

The treatment known as interpersonal therapy, has been practiced for three decades now, and has been of use in the treatment of several disorders including the most extreme versions of depression.  **End Summary**  Topics: <![CDATA[<a href="http://www.articlesnatch.com/topic/therapy" rel="tag">therapy</a>]]><![CDATA[<p>]]> About the Author: <![CDATA[<br>]]> Almost every person will experience feelings of anxiety at some point in their life. The worry associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is chronic and persistent usually accompanied by unrealistic thoughts. This worry may be difficult to control, affecting
concentration and emotional well-being. The opportunity for reflection, self-exploration, and insight to help treat an &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.bayridgetreatmentcenter.com/&quot;&gt;anxiety disorder Mississauga&lt;/a&gt; phone counselling may provide help.</description>
	 <category><![CDATA[therapy]]></category>
         <pubDate>Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
         <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/What-is-Interpersonal-Psychotherapy--IPT--And-can-it-help-with-my-depression-/327770</guid>
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