Articles by Paul Fleming on ArticleSnatch.com

5 Fun Things To Do When Studying in Florence

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:48:29 -0400

Ah Florence! It's the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to some of the world's most recognizable art and sculpture - namely Michelangelo's David! And then there's food and gelato. It's fun to simply wander the Florentine streets, sip on an espresso, listen in to the beautifully lyrical Italian language and watch the world go by. Once you've found la dolce vita, try these five fun things when studying abroad in Florence. 1. Eat Too Much Gelato At the Gelato Festival The quality of gelato in Florence is superb and it's easy to consume several scoops each day. But the mother of all gelato experiences happens during the Gelato Festival. Held at the end of May, you can taste gelato to your heart and tongue's content. Head to the Piazza Pitti and Piazza della Repubblica for midday to midnight gelato celebrations and watch as gelato masters from across the country create their sweet treats using every ingredient imaginable. 2. Buy Produce at the Cascine Market The Cascine Market is located along the famous Arno River. Open every Tuesday from 8am until 2pm, it's your chance to rub shoulders with the locals. **End Summary** Topics: study abroad in Florence]]> Italy study abroad]]> study in Florence]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Center for Study Abroad has been assisting study abroad language students since 1990. Thousands of people have taken advantage of their competitive prices and quality programs to study in Florence . Check them out at www.centerforstudyabroad.com

Five Fun Things To Do While Studying Abroad In Shanghai

Sun, 24 Jul 2011 23:36:59 -0400

Shanghai is a like a child going through a growth spurt. It's hungry, energetic and bold with a nighttime skyline that redefines neon. Shanghai is the eighth largest city in the world with the 2010 Census revealing a population of 23 million people, 9 million of which are migrants. It has the third tallest building in the world along with impressive Art Deco architecture and really is a city with something for everyone. It has also become a very popular study abroad destination. Here are our top five fun things to do in Shanghai. 1. Ride the world's largest bus system Shanghai's bus system is the largest in the world with more than 1100 lines at your service. Because of its complexity, online tutorials are available in English to help you work out how catch the right bus. You can pay using coins or the Shanghai Transportation Card. Coins are placed in the slot at the entrance to the bus. If the bus system feels too overwhelming, there's also an extensive rail system. Make sure you check out the roof at the Shanghai South Railway Station. It's the first circular railway station in the world. 2. **End Summary** Topics: study abroad shanghai]]> china study abroad]]> center for study abroad]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Center for Study Abroad offers global and affordable study abroad programs for everyone including to Shanghai. From high academic quality to lower prices, CSA's programs allow the opportunity to gain a unique learning experience. For more go to http://www.centerforstudyabroad.com

Packaging Knives And Blade Specialists Answer Questions From Pack Expo International 2010

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:28:22 -0400

The recent Pack Expo International 2010 was attended by over 44,500 packaging and processing professionals in Chicago from October 31 through November 3, 2010. The reasons for attending were many and varied, from forging face to face connections with colleagues and suppliers, investigating processing and packaging solutions, and keeping up to date on the latest technologies and services in the industries. York Saw & Knife was there in the thick of things, with their impressive displays and knowledgeable field representatives. The field reps talked with hundreds of visitors over the 4 day event. The displays of knives and blades brought more than a few people in to discuss specific applications. Over the course of the week, however, there were five questions that occurred over and over. In case you missed Pack Expo, here are the questions and answers. Q. Where are your machine knives made? A. York Saw & Knife Company is a manufacturer. All of our custom machine knives and industrial saws are made in house at the Emigsville, Pennsylvania facility. We have been making blades in house for 105 years, and we take pride in our work. Design, manufacture, sharpening, heat treating, we do it all. Q. **End Summary** Topics: straight knives]]> cutting tools]]> York Saw and Knife]]> circular knives]]> cutoff knife]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About York Saw and Knife Company York Saw and Knife Company combines time tested manufacturing techniques, superior materials and leading edge technology to produce custom cutting tools for a variety of industries. They can produce quality circular and straight knives for a wide range of industrial applications. Visit http://www.yorksaw.com

Five Fun Facts When Studying Abroad At Oxford

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 04:32:22 -0400

Oxford is home to one of the most famous and prestigious universities in the world. It has the world's oldest public museum, Ashmolean Museum, set up in 1683 and the world's oldest bridge over the River Thames, Radcot Bridge, built by Cistercian monks in 1150. One of the reasons the city wasn't bombed during WWII was that Hitler was going to use it as his capital if he conquered England. You can take this all in while boating up the Thames surrounded by lush green and historic buildings. Here are 5 fun things to know when studying at Oxford, England. 1. Get your bearings by climbing Carfax TowerCarfax Tower is the center of Oxford and at 74 feet, its tallest building - no building can be higher than it. The tower used to be part of a church that was demolished for road widening in 1896 - back in the horse and cart days. At least the tower wasn't knocked down because from the top, you get a fantastic view of the Oxford skyline. There are 99 steps to reach the summit - worth every step. **End Summary** Topics: study abroad oxford]]> university of oxford abroad]]> studying in oxford]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Center for Study Abroad offers opportunities for all to study abroad at some of the finest locations around the world. One of the more popular destinations to study abroad is University of Oxford through their summer study abroad programs. View full details at http://www.centerforstudyabroad.com

Study Abroad in Madrid: 5 Fun Facts to Help You Choose Your Destination

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 06:19:35 -0400

Most travelers to Madrid fall in love with the city. The name Madrid means 'place of many streams' although today 'place of many trees' seems more appropriate with the city streets lined with trees and parks. The city has more cloudless days than any other city in Europe and was named by Monocle magazine as the 10th most livable city in the world in 2010. Here are 5 Facts About Madrid. 1. Eat At The World's Oldest Restaurant It's a big claim but backed up by the Guinness Book of Records. Restaurante Botin was established in 1725 and apparently Goya used to wash dishes here when he was a struggling artist. Writers Frederick Forsyth, James A Michener and Ernest Hemingway have referenced Botin in their novels and Hemingway attempted to cook paella in the kitchen, but not very successfully. Suckling pig and roasted lamb are the signature dishes. 2. You Can Go Boating and Canoeing On one of those reputed cloudless days, why not rent a boat and soak up the sights from the middle of a lake in beautiful Retiro Park? Situated in the center of the city behind the Prado museum, the park is massive. **End Summary** Topics: budget study abroad]]> study abroad madrid]]> center for study abroad]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Since 1990, Center for Study Abroad has been offering budget study abroad solutions. As one of the top destinations to study abroad, Madrid offers a number of unique opportunities especially for those wishing to learn or enhance their Spanish language skills. Visit http://www.centerforstudyabroad

Protect Your Synchronized Clock System With Wire Guards

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 10:54:32 -0500

With the many updates and innovations found in today's systems integration, many businesses, schools, hospitals, and government organizations are making upgrades in their facility's clock system. Synchronized clocks have become one of the most common choices to upgrade, mainly due to the reliance placed on them. However, these clock systems are not inexpensive and more facilities are recognizing that it is important to protect their clocks. Organizations look at the purchase of a synchronized clock system as an investment; something they will receive a return on in the future. When making this investment, these facilities may want to consider different types of protection for the product they just purchased. For clock systems, particularly, a great way to protect this investment is with the purchase of wire guards. Wire guards are as simple as they sound. They are protective shields that prevent any harm to the clocks you have purchased. They are composed of steel rods welded together which are coated to protect the steel from corrosion. This simple, yet effective accessory is a practical purchase when installing a synchronized clock system. There are a few scenarios where implementing wire guards to protect your clocks may be necessary. 1. **End Summary** Topics: syncronized clock system]]> digital clocks]]> sapling inc]]> wireless clock systems]]> ip clocks]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About The Sapling Company, Inc. The Sapling Company, Inc. has been a pioneer in synchronized clock systems for over a decade. We feature a complete line of analog and digital clock products for wired clock systems, IP clock systems and our patented synchronized wireless clock system. For more information visit us at http://www.sapling-inc.com

Analog or Digital Synchronized Clock System

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 05:22:50 -0500

Deciding what type of clock to install with your synchronized clock system is often based on your general preference. You may prefer the classic look of analog clocks. Conversely, you may prefer the more modern look of digital clocks. If you prefer digital clocks, you may argue that they are easier to read than analog clocks. These aesthetic reasons have merit, and should be considered, but there are advantages to each type of clock that you should also weigh when making your decision. Synchronized Digital clocks offer some benefits not found in analog clocks. 1. Synchronized digital clocks have timer capabilities - With the addition of some extra software and controls, digital clocks have the ability to perform timer functions such as count-downs and count-ups. - Count-ups are very useful in a hospital setting where code blue situations occur. - Count-downs are a very functional tool in schools. Time allowed for test taking can be displayed on digital clocks in each classroom and time in between class periods can be displayed while students are in the halls. 2. **End Summary** Topics: Digital clock]]> wireless clock system]]> wireless clock]]> synchronized clock system]]> master clock system]]> master clock]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About The Sapling Company, Inc. The Sapling Company, Inc. has been a pioneer in synchronized clock systems for over a decade. We feature a complete line of analog and digital clock products for wired clock systems, IP clock systems and our patented synchronized wireless clock system. All of our clocks are engineered and assembled in the United States at our headquarters in Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania. Visit http://www.sapling-inc.com

Right Now is The Time To Think About a Christmas Decorating Service

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 10:34:21 -0400

The weather is turning cooler, leaves are beginning to fall, and Thanksgiving decorations are starting to pop up in stores and offices around the country. These signs also mean that there is little time left to get your Christmas decoration plans in order. As a business professional responsible for your facility, whether you're an office manager, engineer, or property manager, now is the time to secure holiday decor for your space. Crazy as it may sound, mid to late summer is the ideal timeframe to begin, but it's not too late right now! Leave it up to a professional decorating company to worry about where the goods will come from and getting them installed before the holiday season is upon us. Facility Managers are Some of the Busiest Professionals You manage: LEED certification, tenant retention, vacancies, inspections, emergencies, insurance, repairs & maintenance, reports, networking, and your personal life. Surely, we have left out some of your many tasks. If holiday decorating for your facility is one of them, you can get that one off your mind, onto your To Do List, and mark it Done! Do You Really Need Holiday Decor? **End Summary** Topics: Christmas decorating service]]> holiday decor]]> christmas deorators]]> holiday decorators]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hoffman Design Group Inc, located in Folcroft, PA, designs and maintains interior and urban exterior landscapes, rents plants for parties and events, provides floral masterpieces, and Christmas Decorating Services for commercial spaces. Their landscape designs have won many awards, and they take pride in their elegant, environmentally friendly seasonal and holiday decorating.Visit http://www.hoffmandesigngroup.com

Tips for Buying a Home in Ecuador

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 06:14:44 -0400

Buying a home in Ecuador has usually been a risky proposition but a cheap one. Now, that risk has diminished significantly but so have the low prices. With that said, it is still a very affordable opportunity especially for expatriates living abroad. If you have family living in Ecuador, you may have a great incentive to purchase a home in Ecuador but with its diverse countryside, weather and friendly people, it can also be a great place for a property investment. Buying a property in Ecuador is not without its difficulties. Agents do not have to be certified and its not uncommon for a family friend to be acting as an agent so going through a local agent can be tricky. Other companies set up in the US and Europe, like Union Andina for example, knows and understands the market of both the home countries like Ecuador and the requirements of the European and American countries. Ecuador is essentially split into 3 diverse regions and when considering buying a home, it's important to take these into consideration: Buying a home on the Ecuador Coast - this area is beautiful and relatively inexpensive. **End Summary** Topics: buy a home in ecuador]]> investment property ecuador]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Paul Fleming represents Union Andina, a company that cares about the needs of real estate and financial services of Latinos living in Europe and the United States, as well as those of their families in their countries of origin so that, with our help, can realize the dream of their own home. Visit http://www.union-andina.net for more.

Home Improvement Contractor Liability Under the CFA

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:37:35 -0400

It is important for all business owners to become familiar with the provisions of the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act ("CFA"), which is one of the strongest consumer protection laws in the United States. It is even more so for home improvement contractors who, in addition to the general provisions of the CFA, are also subject to specific regulations that govern the nature and form of their contracts, as well as the way they carry out those contracts. In general, the CFA prohibits "false promises", such as agreeing to complete the project and then failing to do so, "false pretenses" and misleading statements made in the context of the sale of goods or services to the public. An example would be a statement misidentifying the quality or grade of a product used or to be used on a project. Liability is not only reserved for the intentional wrongdoer or the outright liar, but also to the contractor who unintentionally provides wrong information due to his own negligence or mistaken belief. Courts are free to expand the scope of the CFA to include activities not specifically mentioned in the statute. **End Summary** Topics: Corporate and Litigation Attorneys]]> Greenbaum Rowe Smith Davis LLP]]> New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act]]> New Jersey Law Firm]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith, & Davis LLP In 2010 Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP celebrates its 96th year of building business in New Jersey. The New Jersey Law firm has over 100 attorneys in four main practice departments: Litigation; Real Estate; Corporate; and Tax, Trusts and Estates. The firm has offices located in Woodbridge and Roseland, New Jersey. For more information visit the firm's web site at http://www.greenbaumlaw.com

How to Choose the Best Network Rack or Cabinet

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 03:47:16 -0400

There are three types of racks or network cabinets that you can choose to house your equipment. 1. Freestanding racks - racks that are placed on the floor 2. Wall mount - racks that can be mounted on a wall 3. Versatile - which can be sued as a wall mount, desktop, or freestanding Before deciding on which type of cabinet or rack that you want, there are numerous factors to consider about your equipment. Here are a few basic tips for choosing the network cabinet or rack that will serve you and your equipment best. Physical Dimensions and Weight of your equipment First check the physical dimensions and the weight of your equipment. Some equipment is bulky or heavy and might fit only in the freestanding racks. Smaller equipment can fit inside desktop or wall mount cabinets. However, if you anticipate installing additional equipment in the future, you might want to consider a larger rack or cabinet to ensure your future equipment will fit. Thinking about this now can save you time and money later. Usable Mounting Space inside the Cabinet Verify the usable mounting space available in the cabinet or rack that you have selected. **End Summary** Topics: network cabinets]]> server racks]]> computer server rack]]> wall mount server rack]]> rack cabinets]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Sett SETT is one of the leading manufacturers of network cabinets and server racks in the United States. We serve a variety of industries including government organizations, commercial enterprises and individual users. We offer a wide range of housing requirements solutions for networking and internet administration, data management centers, telecoms and office equipment. For more information, visit http://www.get-sett.com

How Companies Benefit From International DST Capable Clock Systems

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 04:03:01 -0400

In today's global economy, many companies are conducting business all around the world. Firms from different countries and time zones are constantly collaborating with each other to communicate and make business transactions at a time of day that is appropriate for everyone involved. This becomes increasingly challenging when you factor in whether a firm is located in an area that observes Daylight Saving Time (DST) and how they choose to implement DST. DST is observed in approximately 70 countries worldwide and sometimes only in parts of a country. The general purpose of DST is to conserve energy by moving an hour of daylight from the morning to the evening, when electrical lighting would otherwise be used. Areas located closer to the equator, however, do not generally use DST. There is little change in daylight hours near the equator; therefore DST is not seen as necessary. Many parts of the world are choosing to implement DST on different dates and times, while others do not take part at all. As a result, clock systems everywhere are dealing with increasing complexity for determining accurate times in both local and faraway places. **End Summary** Topics: Digital clock]]> wireless clock system]]> wireless clock]]> synchronized clock system]]> master clock system]]> master clock]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Sapling Company, Inc. Sapling Company, Inc has been a pioneer in synchronized time keeping for over a decade. We feature a complete line of analog and digital clock products for wired clock systems, IP clock systems and our most popular innovation, the synchronized wireless clock system which, is based upon a patent pending technology that has transformed the industry. For more information visit http://www.sapling-inc.com

How Healthcare Facilities Benefit From GPS Technology

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 20:39:17 -0400

In the modern healthcare industry, including hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers, accurate record keeping is vital and accurate time tracking is an absolute necessity, for legal liability as well as for a variety of medical reasons. Keeping track of precise time to properly administer medications, perform surgery and assure that medical personnel are where they are supposed to be at the proper time is extremely important. Some malpractice issues may be averted by accurate time stamps on patient charts. Technological advances are available that make accurate time information easy to access and record, making synchronized time throughout the institution a reality while reducing maintenance costs. This same technology can eliminate the need to reset clocks after a power outage, or for daylight savings time. One wide spread technology that can be used to manage time keeping is Global Positioning Systems (GPS). Originally used as a military navigation tool, GPS has grown into a widely used technical instrument that is featured for applications including navigation and tracking as well as time keeping. GPS works by receiving data from earth orbiting satellites and triangulating position through three dimensional space. **End Summary** Topics: Digital clock]]> wireless clock system]]> wireless clock]]> synchronized clock system]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Sapling Company, Inc. Sapling Company, Inc has been a pioneer in synchronized time keeping for over a decade. We feature a complete line of analog and digital clock products for wired clock systems, IP clock systems and our most popular innovation, the synchronized wireless clock system which, is based upon a patent pending technology that has transformed the industry. For more information visit http://www.sapling-inc.com

Hand Nailing vs. Nail Guns

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 19:57:04 -0400

Homeowners living in homes with shingle roofs will have to deal with replacing that roof if they live in the house long enough. At the first tell tale signs that the roof is failing, most homeowners begin by getting estimates from roofing contractors on replacing or repairing the roof. Since material costs will be similar from one contractor to the next, the price differences between the estimates will probably be labor costs and the way the companies do business. One of the variables in labor costs may be hand nailing the shingles versus using a pneumatic nail gun to attach them. The contractor using a nail gun is often able to finish the job in a much shorter time, and move on to the next job site. All other things being equal, why wouldn't you choose the lower price and faster completion for your new roof? A very important reason to consider is the warranty on your roof. The 30 year warranty that you often get when you have a new roof installed is for the materials and does not cover the installation. Most new roof failures are caused by the installation and not a defect in the shingles. **End Summary** Topics: commercial roofing]]> residential roofing]]> philadelphia roofing company]]> russell roofing]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Russell Roofing Since 1992, Russell Roofing has built its business on solid principals and honest professionalism. With their focus on quality, Russell Roofing serves a commercial roofing and residential roofing clientele while maintaining a reputation as an innovator in the industry. Their focus on safety, quality, and customer service has made them one of the top 100 roofers in the United States. Visit http://www.russellroofing.com

Machine Knife Heroes - 5 Important Uses for Machine Knives

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 02:52:13 -0400

Machine knives are some of the unsung heroes of the manufacturing process. They are silent, dedicated workers that help cut and shape our products from raw material to packaged product. Without them, all the engineering skill, all the experienced labor, and all the automation in the world would yield a whole mangled heap of unfinished everything. We're not sure why the tools and parts that make our processes work don�t get more attention. Maybe they�re not as fun to watch as high-tech robotic automation. Maybe they�re less easy to relate to than a line of skilled workers laboring at a factory. Maybe both is true, but that doesn�t make knives any less important. To illustrate our point, here are just five simple things we use every day that without machine knives would be, at the very least, much less convenient. At the very worst, they�d be impossible to use. 1. Labels on Cans (and other containers!) Ever fallen for the �10 cent mystery can� sale at the grocery store? Perhaps you�re the type to let one languish in the back of your cupboard? **End Summary** Topics: machine knife]]> machine knives]]> blades and saws]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Paul Fleming represents York Saw and Knife Company, a U.S manufacturer committed to producing blades that deliver superior performance. They pride themselves on being the cutting tools of choice for so many industries including paper, textiles, packaging, converting, food processing and lumber. For more information go to http://www.yorksaw.com

DuPont Teflon Coating: Not Just For Cookware

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 22:10:07 -0400

Teflon® has often been described as "an example of serendipity, a flash of genius, a lucky accident ... even a mixture of all three." It was in 1938 that Dr. Roy Plunkett, a DuPont chemist, began to work with refrigerants. After checking a frozen compressed sample, Plunkett discovered that it had polymerized into a waxy, white solid which formed polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Plunkett's subsequent tests showed the polymer to be highly resistant to electricity, temperature, mold and fungus. And to top it off, the polymer was very slippery. DuPont Teflon® was born. It however would be several more decades until DuPont felt comfortable enough to market its Teflon® coating on cookware. Laboratory tests confirm Teflon® cookware only begins to deteriorate when misused and exposed to extreme heat of 500°F or more. It's important to note that fats, butter, and cooking oil tend to burn and smoke at only 400°F. In fact, cooked foods will burn beyond an edible state before non-stick cookware deteriorates and poses dangerous health risks. Teflon®, however, isn't just used for cookware. Let's Look At Three Other Interesting Ways DuPont Teflon® Coating Is Used Today: 1. **End Summary** Topics: plastech]]> plas-tech coatings]]> dupont teflon]]> non-stick coatings]]> fluoropolymer]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Plas-Tech Coatings: Plas-Tech , Inc. is a DuPont Licensed Industiral Applicator of Teflon®. Originally accepted into the program in 1981, Plas-Tech has retained this designation for over 25 years where it has developed expertise in the application of Teflon® and other fluoropolymers. Plas-Tech is well known for it's commitment to quality and its turnaround times are the best in the industry.

Getting More Value for Your Non-Ferrous Scrap Metals

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 10:25:29 -0400

Scrap metal recycling can be a good way to pick up a little extra cash these days, while helping the environment and reducing the amount of material that goes into landfills. Knowing a few things about how scrap metal is graded will help you get the best prices. Scrap metal is divided into several different categories: ferrous, non-ferrous, precious metals and several others. The two most common scrap metals that are recycled are ferrous and non-ferrous scrap. Ferrous scrap has an iron component to it and is identified by using a magnet to see if it sticks to it or not. If it sticks it's ferrous. Ferrous scrap is priced by per 100 weight or by gross tons. Non-ferrous scrap metal does not stick to a magnet. It may pull a magnet but won't stick. Typically non-ferrous scrap is priced by the pound. It is also divided into various grades within each type of material with each grade having it own set price or value. Non-ferrous scrap metal can include all different types of copper tubing and insulated copper wires as well as aluminum siding and gutters, aluminum window frames and doors and aluminum wires. **End Summary** Topics: scrap metal]]> Kurtz metals]]> non-ferrous scrap metal]]> non ferrous scrap]]> scrap metal recycling]]> metal recycling]]> nonferrous scrap metal]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Robert K. Kurtz Company: The Robert K. Kurtz Company (also known as Kurtz Metals) is a non-ferrous scrap recycling company supplying quality service to the recycling community in the Delaware Valley for more than thirty years. The company is located in Trevose, Pennsylvania, in lower Bucks County. Kurtz Metals sets the standard for value and service. For more information see our website www.kurtzmetals.com

Understanding Construction Job Costs and Profitability

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 03:56:16 -0400

Every company, regardless of the industry, is in business to make a profit. In good economic times construction projects are more abundant and typically fewer companies bid each project. In the current economic climate, there are fewer jobs, so more companies are competing for each one. The profit margins are smaller, and companies that do not understand exactly how each project is performing in regards to costs, projected costs, and schedule are doomed to fail. Most small construction companies do very little job costing. Those that do track job costs often use Excel spreadsheets that require duplicate data entry resulting in hours of extra work and, in many cases, in costly errors. These companies track the obvious items, such as accounts payable costs and the pay rate for each employee. However, this information does not provide the owner or project manager the details needed to accurately bid or track projects for maximum profitability. Overlooked Job Costing Issues There are other costs outside accounts payable and employee pay that must be accounted for in bids and tracked accurately to provide management with the details they need to understand their costs at any given point in time during a project. **End Summary** Topics: Maxwell Systems]]> job cost accounting]]> construction business software]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Maxwell Systems Maxwell Systems is a leading provider of complete construction business management software solutions and services. Founded in 1975, Maxwell Systems is dedicated to helping its 10,000 customers streamline their estimating, job cost accounting, and project management processes using construction business software to improve profitability.

Winning Gold Medals in Our Businesses

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:35:05 -0500

While watching the Olympics, I was treated in one evening to gold-medal performances by two amazing Olympic athletes: Lindsey Vonn and Shaun White. I quietly applauded their success and went to bed at almost midnight. The next day, with their victories still fresh in my mind, I thought about six key parallels between Olympic success and business success: #1: Keep Moving Forward As Lindsey Vonn stood at the starting gate at the top of her run, she was visibly nervous and shaking uncontrollably. But as soon as she started her run, her nerves came under control. She just had to keep moving forward. Being nervous is natural - especially in today's business climate. But it is imperative not to let anxiety or fear hold you back: success in business is dependent on remaining consistently active in the market place. When you feel your nerves begin to tingle, keep moving forward - your confidence will soon return. #2: Be Flexible In order to reach her goal, Lindsey had to adjust to the conditions of the course. For instance, she used men's ski to help cushion the bumps and to gain better control as she descended the mountainside. **End Summary** Topics: business goals]]> succeed in business]]> keys to business success]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Sale Pros 4 Hire Sales Pros 4 Hire teaches companies how to close sales more quickly utilizing the Sales Funnel Process. By increasing the quality of the leads that you start with, the leads pass through the Sales Funnel rapidly and become customers.

Effective Equipment Management is Critical to Profitability

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:10:04 -0500

Successful Construction Companies Use Business Management Software to Manage Equipment and Ultimately Reduce Expenses, Improve Utilization, and Minimize Downtime. Effectively managing heavy equipment can make the difference between a profitable company and an unprofitable one. Successful construction companies are always looking for ways to increase profits, reduce maintenance and operating expenses, optimize utilization, and minimize downtime. This can be achieved through better equipment asset management. Equipment Asset Management provides information to make decisions about rebuilding or replacing machines, balancing fleet average age, and adjusting fleet size and composition to meet changing company demands. In practical terms, this means getting as much production as possible from the equipment, at the lowest per hour cost, over the longest period of time, while obtaining the highest sales value at the end of life. This is achieved through the use of business management software to effectively manage equipment. The equipment asset in a heavy construction company accounts for about one-third of total corporate assets, and the cost of owning and operating the fleet is frequently larger than any other expense. This makes it the largest expense in a construction project, more than labor and materials costs. **End Summary** Topics: Maxwell systems]]> construction business software]]> construction estimating softare]]> construction management software]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Maxwell Systems Maxwell Systems is a leading provider of complete construction business management software solutions and services. Founded in 1975, Maxwell Systems is dedicated to helping its 10,000 customers streamline their estimating, job cost accounting, and project management processes using construction business software to improve profitability.

The Basics of Aseptic Filling

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 23:01:16 -0500

Aseptic filling of sterile drugs is among the most critical processes in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. A patient whose health is already compromised by an illness or injury simply cannot afford to receive tainted medication that could result in a delayed recovery, or even death. Therefore, pharmaceutical manufacturers must act with care to select well designed aseptic filling equipment that prevents cross contamination and ensures a clean, measured fill. What is Aseptic Processing? Aseptic processing involves the packaging of a sterile product in a manner to ensure its sterility. Found primarily in the food and pharmaceutical industries, aseptic processing is used on a regular basis to ensure purity and extend shelf life. Containers commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry are sterilized bags. As a component of this process, aseptic filling is the step when the material is placed into the sterile container and sealed. History of Aseptic Processing The history of aseptic processing is relatively new and took a big leap forward during the 1940s. Originally, sterility requirements for injectables were established in the 1920s, but requirements understandably grew with WWII. **End Summary** Topics: aseptic filling]]> aseptic fill]]> aseptic processing]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About ASIFill.com Operated by Advanced Scientifics, ASIFill.com offers an advanced aseptic filling fixture that provides a simple and secure method of filling single use bags in a sterile, closed format. For more information please visit: www.asifill.com

Increase Health Club Profitability with Nutritional Programs

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 16:30:49 -0500

As the New Year begins, so does a new budget. For health club owners this means planning to overcome a new set of challenges. Whether it's dealing with a difficult economy, training new staff or finding an edge over one's competition, the name of the game is increasing profitability. One effective method used by many fitness clubs is the implementation of a nutritional program for members that use a juice bar as an anchor. Creating a nutritional program within a health club can be challenging, but with careful planning it can be achieved. By definition, club members care about health, however they may not know how to take the next step forward, how to change their habits, or what foods to eat. Forward looking club managers should seize this opportunity to educate members and using a juice bar as a centerpiece to bring it all together makes a lot of sense. Health club operators may find these recommendations helpful when considering the implementation of a member nutritional program: Know Thyself - Not every fitness facility has a fully developed structure in order to adequately implement a member nutrition program. **End Summary** Topics: juice bar]]> health club]]> fitness club]]> juice bar consultant]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Paul Fleming represents Dan Young who is President and CEO of Performance Food Centers, an industry leader in all facets of the juice bar business. Whether interested in a juice bar franchise , licensing opportunities, expanding existing facilities, or shopping for juice bar supplies, Performance Food Centers has the expertise to ensure your success.

Member Retention: A Key to Health Club Profitability

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:41:30 -0500

Focused on the continual need to add more people to a health club's membership, many managers fail to recognize that member retention is a key to health club profitability. Getting caught up in the high energy, "sell, sell, sell" mentality can be unhealthy for any business; managers must take a step back to fully consider the economics that make their businesses successful. What Does It Cost to Make a Sale? Every health club manager understands that the cost of enrolling a new member can be expensive. Marketing, advertising, public relations and paying sales staff are just a few expenses involved in recruiting new members. After all the expense and effort involved in enrolling a new member, too many sales-focused managers move on to the next challenge with little regard to ensuring that their newest member is happy. This is a critical mistake that health clubs should correct and today's difficult economy is proof that this is a poor strategy. What happens when the pool of prospects dries up due to a soft economy? The Cost of Replacing a Health Club Member A membership management strategy that is overly focused on generating new sales is a mistake waiting to happen. **End Summary** Topics: Performance Food Centers]]> juice bar]]> juice bar franchise]]> juice bar supplies]]> smoothie store business plan]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Dan Young is President and CEO of Performance Food Centers, an industry leader in all facets of the juice bar business. Serving over 910 juice bars, fitness centers and cafes, Performance Food Centers offers expertise in everything from the development of a smoothie store business plan to the design and development of a new juice bar franchise .

How to Choose a Philadelphia Event Planner

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:17:07 -0500

An event planner is a professional who supervises and coordinates the strategic and operational logistics for events like festivals, ceremonies, competitions, parties or conventions, synchronizing and coordinating the most exacting details from theme or motif development to catering and cleanup. Most people select a Philadelphia event planner, or event planning company, when their special occasion calls for quite a bit of coordination, like a corporate event. And while it is true that Philadelphia event planners are an additional expense to your company's bottom line, a good planner can help you create the perfect event with your specific budget in mind. It's equally important to note that the best Philadelphia event planners have great connections with local and regional vendors and companies that can provide special deals which in turn could save you thousands of dollars over the retail price. Here are just a few things to look for when selecting the right Philadelphia Event Planner: Philadelphia Special Events Planning & Skill: Your Philadelphia event planner should not only help you interpret your vision into a memorable special event, they should also be able to infuse your vision with meticulous attention to detail and flawless execution. **End Summary** Topics: Roberts Event Group]]> Philadelphia Destination Management]]> Philadelphia Event Planner]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About Roberts Event Group Roberts Event Group , Inc. is a leading provider of special events, meeting management, destination management, and event entertainment. Located in Jenkintown, PA, Roberts Event Group intimately knows Philadelphia and Philadelphia destination management offering the knowledge experience and connections to make your event truly memorable for both you and your guests.

Debt Collector Harassment: Four Illegal and Bogus Collection Tactics You Should Know About

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 11:43:11 -0500

Even though the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received nearly 80,000 complaints last year concerning debt collectors and unfair practices, its largely believed that only a small percentage of debt collector violations are actually reported by consumers. And while most debt collectors stay well within the boundaries defined by the Federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), there are others who use illegal tactics including threats and intimidation to collect a debt. It's of the utmost importance that consumers who may have fallen behind on their bills know that debt collector harassment can occur quite often. Furthermore, debt harassment can come in a variety of forms from intimidation to the use of obscene or profane languag, all of which is illegal. It's even more important to provide examples of some common bogus and illegal debt collection practices. Below are four illegal and bogus tactics that some debt collectors use: "You're Wages Will Be Garnished To Recover This Debt": Unless a debt collector has legal authority to do so, they can not threaten legal action; third party collection agencies have no legal authority. **End Summary** Topics: stop collection calls]]> Fair Debt Collection Practices Act]]> bill collector harassment]]> kimmel and silverman]]> creditlaw.com]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> About CreditLaw.com: CreditLaw.com helps consumers stop collection calls in states throughout the Northeast. Operated by the law firm of Kimmel and Silverman, PC, CreditLaw.com uses the Fair Debt Collection Practices Ac t to help families in financial difficulty end bill collector harassment.