10-songs-personify-summer

Besides the summer season representing backyard barbecues, grilling burgers and steaks, making lemonade or margaritas, watching baseball on TV or at a nearby park, swimming and surfing at the beach amongst the many activities it also means music. Countless songs have been composed about this glorious season. Oftentimes they have the word summer in the song title. Instead of this type of approach here are ten great songs that represent summer in some other capacity. These songs speak of topics on travel, cars, food, urban lifestyle, going to the park, surfing on a surfboard, and dancing. Many of the musicians featured have made an extraordinary contribution to music. They are now part of the ten songs that personify the summer season. This will be a music list unlike any other.
10.) Vacation - Go Go's

They are one of the most successful all-girl pop/rock groups who composed their own songs. This late 70's/early 80's punk band from L.A. burst onto the charts with their infectious tunes. In this song it's about a summer romance, which happens to be a very popular time of falling in love. The cheesy music video features them as the old-fashioned water-skiers from Cypress Gardens in Florida. This was a tourist attraction before the days of Disney World back in the 50's or 60's. The song title also talks of taking a vacation. Summer is the most popular time of the year for travel.

9.) Summer Lady - Santana

From Carlos Santana's masterful guitar playing is this song track from the Marathon album released in 1979. It's about a fantasy lady. This is the only song title on the list that mentions summer. In the music video the flight attendant is waking the passengers up and getting everyone out of their seats to dance. Once again, the music video is about summer travel and dancing to the music as a favorite summertime activity.

8.) Pink Cadillac - Bruce Springsteen

Here is the B-Side to Dancing In The Dark by "The Boss." You must have a summer song list featuring a car in it. This is Springsteen's second song featuring the word Cadillac in one of his song titles. It's basically about loving his girlfriend's pink Cadillac. What a perfect song to have on while cruising in your car on a hot summer night.

7.) Margaritaville - Jimmy Buffet

He is the king of tropical island music, which represents a carefree lifestyle in the Florida Keys or the Caribbean. This song truly personifies it to perfection. Buffest wrote Margaritaville in Key West while watching some gridlock on the road. Prior to his arrival in Key West, when he and his band were on tour, Buffet was in Texas drinking margaritas at a Mexican restaurant. Those two seminal events came together and that's the result of this famous song. Every time I hear it on the radio I want to have a margarita. What a delicious drink to sip on for the summer while at the pool or a beach bar watching the sunset.

6.) Up on the Roof- The Drifters

It's one of the biggest hits for this vocal group about city dwellers in the summer living in high-rises, not just in New York City, but in other major urban cities. What a superb song lyrically of wanting to escape the stresses of daily life in a big city to the "tar beaches" on the roof. You really get a sense of being right there when you hear the song.

5.) Saturday in the Park - Chicago

This song is based on the songwriter, Robert Lamm's, experience while in Central Park in New York City during the Fourth of July. He writes vividly of the jugglers, dancers, steel drummers, etc. that he encounters. This is an excellent song about any day of the week in a park, no matter where, in the summer season, especially when it mentions a summer national holiday like the 4th of July.

4.) Wipe Out- The Surfari's

What a crazy opening for a song with that crazy laugh and the only vocal heard is "wipe out". Then you hear the brilliant drum solo and guitar riffs throughout to a surfing rhythm. This is the ultimate garage band from the early 60's. It is still considered a surf classic and was a huge hit too. Not long after the song was released the Beach Boys came onto the music scene. They would eventually make surfing even more popular. Without a doubt Wipe Out makes you want to get on your surfboard, even if you don't have one.

3.) Centerfield - John Fogerty

Baseball is the king of sports for the summer season. Here is a perfect song and music video paying home to those boys of summer, the baseball players. John Fogerty was inspired to write this song when he attended a MLB All-Star game in San Francisco. His seat was in centerfield. This is considered the third most popular song about baseball besides Talkin' Baseball and of course the perennial Take Me Out To The Ballgame.

2.) Cheeseburger in Paradise - Jimmy Buffet

Every time I hear this song on the radio I crave for a cheeseburger. This is certainly the ultimate food to have on the grill for a summer BBQ gathering. According to Buffet he wrote the song when his boat went through some very rough weather. The ice had melted in their box, so they were forced to eat canned food and peanut butter for the time being. When they managed to dock at a marina in Tortola in the Caribbean there was a restaurant that offered American cheeseburgers. This was at a time when other countries did not serve American comfort food as common as they do now. It was like paradise tasting that cheeseburger after all they went through. Cheeseburgers are great all year round, but they are the tastiest grilled in the summer.

1.) The Twist - Chubby Checker

With all this talk of food and drinks its time to take those pounds off with one of the best dancing and workout songs ever recorded in my opinion. I absolutely love The Twist. It may be an oldie but goodie, but you can't deny its infectious beat, high energy, lively lyrics and washing machine-like rhythm. It absolutely has to be the best summer song to dance to, bar none.

Once you hear these songs you'll no doubt want them in your collection. You can download these excellent ten songs that personify the summer season from www.amazon.com or www.iTunes.com. They may be from the 60's, 70's and 80's, but many of the artists are still touring and recording to this day. This is a testament on how some songs are timeless, because they reflect on something that never grows old, like many summertime activities.

10-politcal-lessons-harry-potter-series

The "Harry Potter" series has captivated millions worldwide with a classic tale of good versus evil. J.K. Rowling's best-selling series is, of course, fictional, but in the stories there are several relevant lessons we could all learn. Here are 10 political lessons from the wizarding world for the real world:

Labor standards matter: House elves are treated poorly in several instances in the Harry Potter installments. Hermione Granger even goes so far as to start a group called the Society for the Protection of Elfin Welfare (S.P.E.W.). In the book, it is the slave treatment of Dobby that causes him to betray his masters, the Malfoys. The dementors of Azkaban also align with Voldemort after he more effectively bargains with them. Both instances could have been avoided with strong labor representation and contracts.

Often times, it is not those directly in government that affect politics: The Order of the Phoenix and the Death Eaters represent two groups not directly in the political arena that still have an effect on the political outcomes of their society. These two groups could be compared to groups like Americans For Prosperity or the AFL-CIO based on their influence in politics. These outside groups often dictate policy and agenda to their supporters, much like the Death Eaters or the Order of the Phoenix.

Cooperation among governments is crucial: Cornelius Fudge makes a point to visit and inform the sitting British Prime Minister of "muggles" while he is in office. Transparency between governments, especially in times of crisis, are crucial. The same holds true in the most joyful of circumstances, as well. Fudge also made a point to notify the British PM about the importation of Sphinxes for the Tri-Wizard Tournament, probably to avoid customs issues I suspect. Speaking of the Tri-Wizard Tournament, Barty Crouch must have had to coexist with other foreign officials in putting together the event, much like our officials in real life and the Olympics.

No justice system is perfect: Sirius Black was convicted of aiding in the murder of James and Lily Potter, as well as the murders of Peter Pettigrew and several "muggles." Eyewitness accounts placed both Black and Pettigrew at the scene, but a finger of Pettigrew's was all investigators ever found of him. In the end, it is revealed that Black is innocent and it was actually Pettigrew who committed the murders and betrayal. This story translates all too well to the real world where, according to The Innocence Project, 297 wrongful convictions have been overturned on DNA alone since 1989.

Teachers help develop the next generation: Whether it is the guidance of Albus Dumbledore, or the firm hand of Minerva McGonagall it is clear throughout the Harry Potter series that teachers play an important role in the development of society. In "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone", it is professor McGonagall that steers Harry towards quidditch and ignites a passion in him. It is with the guidance of Albus Dumbledore that Harry is aided with what is right and wrong in life. And it is Rubeus Hagrid who plays an uncle type role in Harry's life by giving him someone to rely on and bond with in a less professional manner. While the students are at Hogwarts, it is clear that the teachers take the place of traditional family members to aid in the rearing of the young witches and wizards.

Public transportation is a must: Could you imagine trying to get everywhere on a broom? If you think rush hour is bad now, try it at 4000 feet on a stick in a rainstorm. Proper regulation of the Floo Network, Portkeys, Apparition, and the Knight Bus allow witches and wizards to travel with ease and without congestion. Like subways and buses, the Ministry of Magic is obviously aware of the immense benefits public transportation networks provide.

Corruption in government cannot be rooted out by magic: Unfortunately, even in fantasy the government can be corrupted by the undue influences of money. Cornelius Fudge is famously seen cavorting with Lucius Malfoy, to which Mr. Weasley replies that it is probably about gold changing hands. This exchange allowed Malfoy to remain influential, a problem all too familiar to our current political environment.

For any government to function properly, there must be reputable media: Rita Skeeter is analogous to the reporters at the National Enquirer. Indeed, it is Skeeter's thirst for that which is sensational versus that which is fact that complicates matters in the wizarding world. When the facts about Harry are distorted, the public quickly turns on him and sees Harry as unhinged. When the Daily Prophet covers up the return of Voldemort, the citizens are left ill-prepared and duped by their government. It is clear J.K. Rowling understands the need for an independent and reliable news media.

Class and racial discrimination tear society apart: "Mudbloods" is the term in Harry Potter for those with a mix of magical and non-magical blood. The Death Eaters and their supporters advocate for a pure blood rule and basically a genocide of the "mudbloods." It is this difference in ideology that eventually leads the wizarding community into a civil war. Also, the giants are cast into the mountains to live in solitude away from the rest of society. In the end, it is this discrimination that leads them to align with Voldemort.

Torture is unjust: Torture pops up quite a few times in the Harry Potter series. Notably, Neville Longbottoms parents were tortured into insanity by Bellatrix Lestrange. Not only do her actions leave a child to be raised by his grandmother, they instill in Neville a desire for revenge at all costs. It is also no coincidence that the Cruciatus Curse is one of the "unforgiveable curses", reserved for only the most egregious curses.

Too much government can be a bad thing: When the Ministry of Magic begins to interfere at Hogwarts, it quickly becomes evident that their actions are devious. Instead of focusing on a proper education, Cornelius Fudge via Delores Umbridge institutes his own agenda. When the government doesn't focus on it's main job, and instead is used to promote ones person agenda, then it has gone a bit too far.

"Harry Potter" has been more than a book for many, myself included. Looking past the entertaining story, the underlying lessons are evident. Life is often imitated in literature, and vice versa so we would be foolish not to take notice, no matter how fantastical the story. Now, if only I could learn to transfigure this stack of junk mail into $100 bills...



"Secretary-General to take part in London Olympics torch run" UN.org
"Innocence Project Case Files" The Innocence Project

10-movies-classics-1960s

Movies from the 1960s not only spark memories to those of us we watched it in the theater, but they impact and entertain young, "streaming and DVD" people today as they did the last generation of movie goers.
Here are some of my favorite movies of the 1960s.

1. The Apartment.(1960) ~ Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine in her first leading role. Jack Lemmon plays a poor schmuck who wants to rise up the ladder in the company. So he offers his apartment key to married executives at his office so they can carry on their "affairs" with secretaries and elevator girls. He inadvertently ends up with a young woman (elevator) girl who tries to commit suicide in his apartment after her lover (Fred MacMurray) dumps her. Directed by Billy Wilder, the movie has extraordinary acting, humor, drama and a bit of sadness.
2. Bonnie and Clyde (1967) ~ This sad tale of the real Bonnie and Clyde dominated an era where the underdog was rooted as hero. Watergate and Vietnam war was going on, and those who went against the establishment were heroes. So Bonnie and Clyde movie with Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty came at a time where audiences were more willing to embrace thieves who thumbed their noses at the government and police. The slow moving ambush of Bonnie and Clyde by the Feds, is still considered the most brutal depiction of death on film ever.
3. Easy Rider (1969)~ if there were ever a movie that represented the 1960s this would be the one. It also started a biker fad that is still alive today. The movie is about a couple of drug dealers, going from the West Coast to New Orleans as free loving hippees. They come across discrimination for wanting the very freedom everyone was talking about. Great music, with real people, and one of the first films to buck the Hollywood system and end up an Independent film.
4. The Graduate (1967) ~ shockingly naughty and sexy and still naughty today -- The Graduate with Dustin Hoffman, and Anne Bancroft is about an older married woman, seducing a younger man. And who hasn't ever met or known of someone who was seduced by an older woman? What's great about the movie is everything works, the acting, the script, and the music by Simon and Garfunkel.
5. The Sound of Music (1965) ~ the hills are alive with the sound of applause as I mention this delightful movie for all generations. The story of the Von Trapp family, the history of World War II, a romance, with Julie Andrews and her leading man Christopher Plummer all contribute to this wonderful tale of a musical family. This movie is pure perfection with wonderful cinematography, music and story. Once you sit to watch it, you won't move until it's over. Brilliant.
6. West Side Story (1961) ~ Who can resist a tale of Romeo and Juliet. Except this time it's about the gangs of New York, the White Jets and rival gang Puerto Rican Sharks and the love that blossoms between Maria (Natalie Woods) and Tony (Richard Beymer). The story of forbidden love is timeless and the music...well makes you "like being in America."
7. Psycho (1960)~ There may never be another slasher movie were you never see the victim actually murdered, but are just as creeped out by watching the blood drain down the shower. OR where you see the star of the show being killed off in the first half hour of the movie. Great horror and twists by the wonderful Alfred Hitchcock. Janet Leigh and Anthony Perkins still RULE when it comes to keeping you at the edge of your seat.
8. To Kill A Mockingbird (1962)~ This movie with the all American Gregory Peck was a film that truly showed the hopelessness of blacks in the segregated south. A lawyer, has to defend a black man of raping a white woman, when it was clear her alcoholic father did it. Yet the jury points the finger at the handicapped black man. The story is not dated because it's an excellent adaptation of courage in the face of great prejudice and sticking with what is right, moral and sound.
9. Guess Who is Coming to Dinner~ (1967) Another great film of the time which embraced the changes going on between race in America. It also addressed interracial marriage. Katherine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy and the beautiful Sidney Poitier continue to entertain with wit, humor and thought provoking dialogue that addresses issues facing any married couple. Still funny, still great, it's worth the time to watch it again, and beats the remake hands down In every way.
10. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)~This brilliant adaptation of the true story of real poet T. E. Lawrence, never fails to entertain no matter what age. The story of adventure, grit, honor and morality triumphs over all every time. Peter O'Toole deserved the Oscar for this one, but was nominated that year for best actor. His performance, was genius and crazy, just like T.E. Lawrence was in real life. Worth a watch on a lazy Saturday afternoon with a cup of hot coco and a warm comforter.
Here are some honorable mentions, not my favorites, but I'd watch them again. A Hard Days Night (1964) with the Beatles. The Manchurian Candidate (1962) Frank Sinatra, Lawrence Harvey. 2001 Space Odyssey 1968 , The Wild Bunch (1969), Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) and Midnight Cowboy, 1967.

10-interesting-facts-left-handed-people

Stat: 10 to 12% of people are left-handed. This group has unique traits, ones not held by their right-handed peers. "Lefties" are definitely a rare breed making their presence a curiosity in humanity.
Ten interesting facts about left-handed people:

Some scholars think left-handers are an unorganized minority. Why? Their status often leads to discrimination in social, education and religious arenas. History also shows that negative attributes have been associated with them such as neurosis, rebellion and criminality.
Good news: lefties are disproportionately smarter than the average Joe. St. Lawrence University tests revealed that more left-handed people had IQ's over 140 than their right-handed peers. Famous lefties for their brains are Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin and Albert Einstein.
Older mothers - over the age 40 - have an increased chance of giving birth to a left handed baby. The rate is 128% higher than females half their age.
Amongst Eskimos, left-handed individuals are viewed as sorcerers - magical beings. Incas held this perception too believing that left-handed people had healing powers.
Being left-handed is uncommon amongst humans - not so with other species. Cats, rats and mice are equally right-handed and left-handed.
Lefties are prone to certain adverse physical conditions. They are more likely to be dyslexic, stutter, autistic. On top of these three, they are more likely to have Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or mental disabilities. Despite these maladies, left-handers are survivors and successful in nontraditional situations such as combat.
In 1992, a holiday was created called "Left-Hander's Day". It occurs on August 13. The purpose is to bring awareness to the challenges left-handers experience daily in a world designed for right-handers.
Left-handedness is passed down through families. Example: the British royal family is full of lefties including the Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, and Prince William.
Left-handers should always have life insurance. Research indicates they die earlier - almost 9 years sooner than right-handers.
Evil works or the devil is linked to left-handed people via folklore. Modern day examples are in the behavior of these lefties: The Boston Strangler, Jack The Ripper, and Osama Bin Laden.
In conclusion, the above ten interesting facts about left-handed people indicate the pros and cons to this characteristic. Are they an anomaly in nature? Possibly. Scientists still appear to be trying to figure out the why's and how's.

10-interesting-facts-human-attraction

Do blonds have more fun? Are attractive more likely to succeed at work? What about school, which children get all of the breaks? The laws of human attraction are complicated; depending on the situation, your looks can work for or against you.

Ten interesting facts about human attraction:
Some behavior is instinctual. Infants (ages 2 to 6 months) prefer attractive faces versus unattractive ones. They stare longer at the former.
Single women: don't be afraid to wear the color red! Males prefer this shade; they are more apt to ask you out and spend higher amounts of money on the date.
You were right - teachers do favor more attractive children. These professionals give them more attention, less punishment and better grades.
Sad news: defendants who rape "ugly" victims are less likely to be found guilty. The opposite is true for "attractive" victims.
Despite what your mother said, beauty is NOT in the eye of the beholder. Research indicates that humans agree who is and isn't attractive. This fact is true regardless of ethnicity and culture.
When you have your children matters. Offspring of parents in their thirties find older faces more attractive. The opposite is true of kids with parents in their twenties.
Attractive females don't always win on the job. Ladies who fit this bill lose out when competing for employment in male-dominated fields such as tow truck driver. They are automatically perceived as being less capable of meeting job requirements.
"Beauty bias" is a term describing how more attractive people tend to obtain higher paying jobs in higher level positions versus their less attractive peers.
There is a reason politicians are so shallow. Research indicates more attractive ones receive more news coverage than unattractive politicians.
In the middle ages, noblewomen ingested arsenic in order to improve their complexions. Sound crazy? It's no crazier than injecting botox, which is also a form of poison.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about human attraction indicate that what's on the outside is important. Attractiveness can lay the path towards a great childhood, great job and pocket lined with money. Go figure!

10-interesting-facts-human-attraction

Do blonds have more fun? Are attractive more likely to succeed at work? What about school, which children get all of the breaks? The laws of human attraction are complicated; depending on the situation, your looks can work for or against you.

Ten interesting facts about human attraction:
Some behavior is instinctual. Infants (ages 2 to 6 months) prefer attractive faces versus unattractive ones. They stare longer at the former.
Single women: don't be afraid to wear the color red! Males prefer this shade; they are more apt to ask you out and spend higher amounts of money on the date.
You were right - teachers do favor more attractive children. These professionals give them more attention, less punishment and better grades.
Sad news: defendants who rape "ugly" victims are less likely to be found guilty. The opposite is true for "attractive" victims.
Despite what your mother said, beauty is NOT in the eye of the beholder. Research indicates that humans agree who is and isn't attractive. This fact is true regardless of ethnicity and culture.
When you have your children matters. Offspring of parents in their thirties find older faces more attractive. The opposite is true of kids with parents in their twenties.
Attractive females don't always win on the job. Ladies who fit this bill lose out when competing for employment in male-dominated fields such as tow truck driver. They are automatically perceived as being less capable of meeting job requirements.
"Beauty bias" is a term describing how more attractive people tend to obtain higher paying jobs in higher level positions versus their less attractive peers.
There is a reason politicians are so shallow. Research indicates more attractive ones receive more news coverage than unattractive politicians.
In the middle ages, noblewomen ingested arsenic in order to improve their complexions. Sound crazy? It's no crazier than injecting botox, which is also a form of poison.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about human attraction indicate that what's on the outside is important. Attractiveness can lay the path towards a great childhood, great job and pocket lined with money. Go figure!

10-interesting-facts-human-attraction

Do blonds have more fun? Are attractive more likely to succeed at work? What about school, which children get all of the breaks? The laws of human attraction are complicated; depending on the situation, your looks can work for or against you.

Ten interesting facts about human attraction:
Some behavior is instinctual. Infants (ages 2 to 6 months) prefer attractive faces versus unattractive ones. They stare longer at the former.
Single women: don't be afraid to wear the color red! Males prefer this shade; they are more apt to ask you out and spend higher amounts of money on the date.
You were right - teachers do favor more attractive children. These professionals give them more attention, less punishment and better grades.
Sad news: defendants who rape "ugly" victims are less likely to be found guilty. The opposite is true for "attractive" victims.
Despite what your mother said, beauty is NOT in the eye of the beholder. Research indicates that humans agree who is and isn't attractive. This fact is true regardless of ethnicity and culture.
When you have your children matters. Offspring of parents in their thirties find older faces more attractive. The opposite is true of kids with parents in their twenties.
Attractive females don't always win on the job. Ladies who fit this bill lose out when competing for employment in male-dominated fields such as tow truck driver. They are automatically perceived as being less capable of meeting job requirements.
"Beauty bias" is a term describing how more attractive people tend to obtain higher paying jobs in higher level positions versus their less attractive peers.
There is a reason politicians are so shallow. Research indicates more attractive ones receive more news coverage than unattractive politicians.
In the middle ages, noblewomen ingested arsenic in order to improve their complexions. Sound crazy? It's no crazier than injecting botox, which is also a form of poison.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about human attraction indicate that what's on the outside is important. Attractiveness can lay the path towards a great childhood, great job and pocket lined with money. Go figure!

10-interesting-facts-human-attraction

Do blonds have more fun? Are attractive more likely to succeed at work? What about school, which children get all of the breaks? The laws of human attraction are complicated; depending on the situation, your looks can work for or against you.

Ten interesting facts about human attraction:
Some behavior is instinctual. Infants (ages 2 to 6 months) prefer attractive faces versus unattractive ones. They stare longer at the former.
Single women: don't be afraid to wear the color red! Males prefer this shade; they are more apt to ask you out and spend higher amounts of money on the date.
You were right - teachers do favor more attractive children. These professionals give them more attention, less punishment and better grades.
Sad news: defendants who rape "ugly" victims are less likely to be found guilty. The opposite is true for "attractive" victims.
Despite what your mother said, beauty is NOT in the eye of the beholder. Research indicates that humans agree who is and isn't attractive. This fact is true regardless of ethnicity and culture.
When you have your children matters. Offspring of parents in their thirties find older faces more attractive. The opposite is true of kids with parents in their twenties.
Attractive females don't always win on the job. Ladies who fit this bill lose out when competing for employment in male-dominated fields such as tow truck driver. They are automatically perceived as being less capable of meeting job requirements.
"Beauty bias" is a term describing how more attractive people tend to obtain higher paying jobs in higher level positions versus their less attractive peers.
There is a reason politicians are so shallow. Research indicates more attractive ones receive more news coverage than unattractive politicians.
In the middle ages, noblewomen ingested arsenic in order to improve their complexions. Sound crazy? It's no crazier than injecting botox, which is also a form of poison.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about human attraction indicate that what's on the outside is important. Attractiveness can lay the path towards a great childhood, great job and pocket lined with money. Go figure!

10-interesting-facts-human-attraction

Do blonds have more fun? Are attractive more likely to succeed at work? What about school, which children get all of the breaks? The laws of human attraction are complicated; depending on the situation, your looks can work for or against you.

Ten interesting facts about human attraction:
Some behavior is instinctual. Infants (ages 2 to 6 months) prefer attractive faces versus unattractive ones. They stare longer at the former.
Single women: don't be afraid to wear the color red! Males prefer this shade; they are more apt to ask you out and spend higher amounts of money on the date.
You were right - teachers do favor more attractive children. These professionals give them more attention, less punishment and better grades.
Sad news: defendants who rape "ugly" victims are less likely to be found guilty. The opposite is true for "attractive" victims.
Despite what your mother said, beauty is NOT in the eye of the beholder. Research indicates that humans agree who is and isn't attractive. This fact is true regardless of ethnicity and culture.
When you have your children matters. Offspring of parents in their thirties find older faces more attractive. The opposite is true of kids with parents in their twenties.
Attractive females don't always win on the job. Ladies who fit this bill lose out when competing for employment in male-dominated fields such as tow truck driver. They are automatically perceived as being less capable of meeting job requirements.
"Beauty bias" is a term describing how more attractive people tend to obtain higher paying jobs in higher level positions versus their less attractive peers.
There is a reason politicians are so shallow. Research indicates more attractive ones receive more news coverage than unattractive politicians.
In the middle ages, noblewomen ingested arsenic in order to improve their complexions. Sound crazy? It's no crazier than injecting botox, which is also a form of poison.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about human attraction indicate that what's on the outside is important. Attractiveness can lay the path towards a great childhood, great job and pocket lined with money. Go figure!

10-interesting-facts-human-attraction

Do blonds have more fun? Are attractive more likely to succeed at work? What about school, which children get all of the breaks? The laws of human attraction are complicated; depending on the situation, your looks can work for or against you.

Ten interesting facts about human attraction:
Some behavior is instinctual. Infants (ages 2 to 6 months) prefer attractive faces versus unattractive ones. They stare longer at the former.
Single women: don't be afraid to wear the color red! Males prefer this shade; they are more apt to ask you out and spend higher amounts of money on the date.
You were right - teachers do favor more attractive children. These professionals give them more attention, less punishment and better grades.
Sad news: defendants who rape "ugly" victims are less likely to be found guilty. The opposite is true for "attractive" victims.
Despite what your mother said, beauty is NOT in the eye of the beholder. Research indicates that humans agree who is and isn't attractive. This fact is true regardless of ethnicity and culture.
When you have your children matters. Offspring of parents in their thirties find older faces more attractive. The opposite is true of kids with parents in their twenties.
Attractive females don't always win on the job. Ladies who fit this bill lose out when competing for employment in male-dominated fields such as tow truck driver. They are automatically perceived as being less capable of meeting job requirements.
"Beauty bias" is a term describing how more attractive people tend to obtain higher paying jobs in higher level positions versus their less attractive peers.
There is a reason politicians are so shallow. Research indicates more attractive ones receive more news coverage than unattractive politicians.
In the middle ages, noblewomen ingested arsenic in order to improve their complexions. Sound crazy? It's no crazier than injecting botox, which is also a form of poison.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about human attraction indicate that what's on the outside is important. Attractiveness can lay the path towards a great childhood, great job and pocket lined with money. Go figure!

10-interesting-facts-human-attraction

Do blonds have more fun? Are attractive more likely to succeed at work? What about school, which children get all of the breaks? The laws of human attraction are complicated; depending on the situation, your looks can work for or against you.

Ten interesting facts about human attraction:
Some behavior is instinctual. Infants (ages 2 to 6 months) prefer attractive faces versus unattractive ones. They stare longer at the former.
Single women: don't be afraid to wear the color red! Males prefer this shade; they are more apt to ask you out and spend higher amounts of money on the date.
You were right - teachers do favor more attractive children. These professionals give them more attention, less punishment and better grades.
Sad news: defendants who rape "ugly" victims are less likely to be found guilty. The opposite is true for "attractive" victims.
Despite what your mother said, beauty is NOT in the eye of the beholder. Research indicates that humans agree who is and isn't attractive. This fact is true regardless of ethnicity and culture.
When you have your children matters. Offspring of parents in their thirties find older faces more attractive. The opposite is true of kids with parents in their twenties.
Attractive females don't always win on the job. Ladies who fit this bill lose out when competing for employment in male-dominated fields such as tow truck driver. They are automatically perceived as being less capable of meeting job requirements.
"Beauty bias" is a term describing how more attractive people tend to obtain higher paying jobs in higher level positions versus their less attractive peers.
There is a reason politicians are so shallow. Research indicates more attractive ones receive more news coverage than unattractive politicians.
In the middle ages, noblewomen ingested arsenic in order to improve their complexions. Sound crazy? It's no crazier than injecting botox, which is also a form of poison.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about human attraction indicate that what's on the outside is important. Attractiveness can lay the path towards a great childhood, great job and pocket lined with money. Go figure!

10-interesting-facts-human-attraction

Do blonds have more fun? Are attractive more likely to succeed at work? What about school, which children get all of the breaks? The laws of human attraction are complicated; depending on the situation, your looks can work for or against you.

Ten interesting facts about human attraction:
Some behavior is instinctual. Infants (ages 2 to 6 months) prefer attractive faces versus unattractive ones. They stare longer at the former.
Single women: don't be afraid to wear the color red! Males prefer this shade; they are more apt to ask you out and spend higher amounts of money on the date.
You were right - teachers do favor more attractive children. These professionals give them more attention, less punishment and better grades.
Sad news: defendants who rape "ugly" victims are less likely to be found guilty. The opposite is true for "attractive" victims.
Despite what your mother said, beauty is NOT in the eye of the beholder. Research indicates that humans agree who is and isn't attractive. This fact is true regardless of ethnicity and culture.
When you have your children matters. Offspring of parents in their thirties find older faces more attractive. The opposite is true of kids with parents in their twenties.
Attractive females don't always win on the job. Ladies who fit this bill lose out when competing for employment in male-dominated fields such as tow truck driver. They are automatically perceived as being less capable of meeting job requirements.
"Beauty bias" is a term describing how more attractive people tend to obtain higher paying jobs in higher level positions versus their less attractive peers.
There is a reason politicians are so shallow. Research indicates more attractive ones receive more news coverage than unattractive politicians.
In the middle ages, noblewomen ingested arsenic in order to improve their complexions. Sound crazy? It's no crazier than injecting botox, which is also a form of poison.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about human attraction indicate that what's on the outside is important. Attractiveness can lay the path towards a great childhood, great job and pocket lined with money. Go figure!

10-inspirational-quotes-children

As parents, we want the best for our children. We must play many different roles; parent, teacher, friend, mentor and sometimes even the "bad guy". It is our duty to guide our children in the right direction of life. We are not to simply tell them right from wrong, but to give them the skills needed to determine it on their own.
All parents at some point in time face those moments of reflection, those moments that go past the skinned knees, the sibling rivalry and the peanut butter on the sofa. We have those moments where we stop and think and the realization hits us that our beautiful, innocent children will one day be free-thinking adults like the guy in your office, the lady on the subway or the neighbor who lives on the corner.

Sometimes, it's in these moments that we realize what an important role we play in our children's lives and in these moments we learn and grow ourselves and we learn how to teach our children to be better people. The lessons we give them will help shape their futures.

Below are ten of my favorite quotes for children or for parents of children. If your children are old enough, let them read the quotes, then spend time discussing what they mean. Or read them to your children and explain what you think they mean and let your child share his or her thoughts and feelings on them. If there is one that really sticks out to your child or seems to touch them in a special way, you might want to write or print it out and hang it in their room or somewhere in your house as a reminder.

When your child sees the quote, they will think not only of its meaning and significance but also of the special moment you had together as parent and child and the talks that you had.

"Listen to the mustn'ts, child. Listen to the don'ts. Listen to the shouldn'ts, the impossibles, the won'ts. Listen to the never haves, then listen close to me... Anything can happen, child. Anything can be."

-Shel Silverstein (American poet, cartoonist and composer best known in children's literature for his poetry, 1930-1999)

"A Daughter is a Little Girl who grows up to be a Friend"

-Author Not Known

"We call a child's mind "small" simply by habit; perhaps it is larger than ours is, for it can take in almost anything without effort"

-Christopher Morley (American writer and editor 1890-1957)

"If you want your children to improve, let them overhear the nice things you say about them to others."

-Dr. Haim Ginott

"It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters."

-Epictetus

"You'll make more friends in ten minutes by taking an interest in others than in a month trying to get others interested in you."

-Author Unknown

"A day without laughter is a day wasted."

-Charlie Chaplin

"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up"

-Thomas Edison

"Let no sleep fall upon your eyes until you've reviewed the acts of the day. What did I forget or do wrong? Think up a way to avoid it in the future. What more could I have done or done better? Asking questions of yourself impels you to think for the answers."

10-horror-movies-halloween-alternates

As Halloween night grows ever closer many horror fans struggle with the same problem.
What to watch to really get in the mood for a night of treats and tricks. Most scary movies guides will suggest the same classics year after year films such as The Exorcist,

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Night of the Living Dead. No one can deny that these are some of the most frightening and iconic of horror films but after repeated they can lose some of their chills. Here is a list of alternatives in the genre that will still give viewers the creeps but add a fresh dose of shivers this Halloween.

10. PumpkinHead

A gothic tale perfect for the Halloween season. A farmer calls to life a local legendary monster to extract revenge for his young son's death. But can he control the monster he has unleashed? The creature itself is far more grotesque than his name, PumpkinHead, implies.

9. House of 1,000 Corpses

Rob Zombie's homage to The Texas Chainsaw Massacre may be short on plot and character development but makes up for it in atmosphere. This is audience's first encounter with the firefly clan in all their brutal glory. Torture, bizarre rituals and even a few actual zombies give this film just the right ambience for Halloween.

8. Ginger Snaps

This Canadian flick takes the traditional werewolf movie and gives a new spin. Namely Ginger the teenaged girl doomed to become a werewolf while dealing with her sexuality, pms, and her sister and closest confidant. Ginger Snaps is a fun ride and brings a novel and modern look at an old legend.

7. Book of Shadows: The Blair Witch 2

This movie can stand on it's own despite being a sequel. In the film it acknowledges that the original is fiction and explores the hype surrounding the movie and the town it was filmed in. A tour group visiting the woods where the original was filmed find that there is a fine line between obsession and reality. Again the woods in the fall with spooky apparitions and mysterious disappearances make this a good choice to get into a witchy mood.

6. Creepshow

Brought to the screen by George A. Romero and Stephen King, Creepshow delivers five vignettes from all walks of horror. Cockroaches, demonic monster, zombies and even serious case of moss overgrowth, Creepshow captures the short scary story another staple of Halloween entertaining.

5. Candyman

Urban legends are a popular way for people to frighten one another. How often is Bloody Mary repeated in front of mirrors at Halloween parties with the belief it will cause the ghost to emerge. Candyman takes the idea of the urban legend and creates its own version, a folkloric boogeyman who comes to those who call him and make them part of his story. Perhaps this film can serve as a warning to those on Halloween who are thinking of calling a spirit through the mirror.

4. Evil Dead 2

A classic but not as overplayed as others and featuring Bruce Campbell in his signature role of Ash. Need I say more.

3. The Strangers

After viewing this film of a couple's home over run with psychos in masks you may just hesitate before opening the door for any trick or treaters.

2. May

Sad and disturbing at the same time it's hard not to root for May. Even as she begins her reign of blood after an ill-fated Halloween Party.

1. Halloween 2007

Rob Zombie's remake of the all time classic Halloween film will of course never replace the original but still is well done offering great scares and some interesting background on one of the most famous horror movie icons, Michael Myers.

10-great-quotes-helen-keller

About Helen Keller

Losing her sight and hearing as a baby didn't stop Helen Keller from being one of the most famous women in the world. She learned to sign and then later to speak. Helen Keller wrote several books, got a college degree and was committed to social change. She may be gone but she left her thoughts and quotes for us.

Quotes from Helen Keller

1. "Death is no more than passing from one room into another. But there's a difference for me, you know. Because in that other room I shall be able to see."

2. "Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it."

3. "I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble."

4. "I would rather walk with a friend in the dark, than alone in the light."

5. "Change: A bend in the road is not the end of the road…Unless you fail to make the turn. "

6. "It gives me a deep, comforting sense that things seen are temporal and things unseen are eternal."

7. "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt within the heart."

8. "Once I knew only darkness and stillness. My life was without past or future. But a little word from the fingers of another fell into my hand that clutched at emptiness and my heart leaped to the rapture of living."

9. "Believe, when you are most unhappy, that there is something for you to do in the world. So long as you can sweeten another's pain, life is not in vain."

10. "When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us."

10-great-movies-watch

1) Topping the list for great July 4th movies to watch is Independence Day (1996). Although the movie is about aliens trying to invade our planet, it touches on the independence of all humanity from the hostile takeover of our planet. This is a great movie for the entire family, starring Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum, Mary McDonnell, Judd Hirsch, Robert Loggia, Randy Quaid, Adam Baldwin, and James Duval (to name a few).
2)Born on the Fourth of July (1989), starring Tom Cruise. This movie is based on a true story of Ron Kovic and the Vietnam War. The movie has language and nudity and may not be appropriate for young children.

3) The Patriot (2000), starring Mel Gibson and Heath Ledger and is based on the American Revolutionary War while focusing on Mel Gibson's family.

4) Air Force One (1997), starring Harrison Ford. This is an edge of your seat kind of movie where Harrison Ford plays the role of the President of the United States. Hijackers seize Air Force One with the President and his family on board.

5) Thirteen Days (2000), starring Kevin Costner. The movie centers around the Cuban missile crisis in October of 1962 and the United States role in dealing with the crisis. This was considered a controversial movie when it first came out (and may still be). Some language may not be appropriate for children.

6) Men of Honor (2000), starring Cuba Gooding Jr. and Robert Deniro. Cuba Gooding Jr. portrays the first African American to become a master diver in the US Navy. This is an encouraging story for anyone trying to beat the odds of succeeding.

7) A Few Good Men (1992), starring Tom Cruise, Demi Moore, and Jack Nicholson. A great movie about honor, truth, and a navy lawyer defending two marines being charged with murder. Some language may not be appropriate for children.

8) Dances with Wolves (1990), starring Kevin Costner. One of Kevin Costner's best films, this movie starts out focusing on the Civil War era but soon entails the story of Lakota Indians and Costner's developing relationship and understanding of these people.

9) Saving Private Ryan (1998), starring Tom Hanks. Based on WWII, Tom Hanks portrays a soldier who loses his three other brothers in the war. An effort is made to locate Private Ryan in order to return him home to his mother.

10) Private Benjamin (1980), starring Goldie Hawn. This list wouldn't be complete without a comedy. After the death of her husband on her wedding night, Private Benjamin joins the Army. Great comedy to sum up your 4th of July day.

10-great-halloween-movies

The Rocky Horror Picture Show
For the ultimate Halloween experience, catch a late-night showing of the raunchy musical about a couple who get lost and stumble into an alien transvestite's castle. Make sure you don't ruin it by watching it on video. This film is all about audience participation.
The Shining
Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's novel could quite possibly be one of the scariest films of all time. The bone-chilling movie is based in an isolated hotel where Jack Nicholson and his family have moved in as caretakers for the winter. What follows is a ghostly encounter with a former hotel custodian who murdered his wife and two daughters. Beware: The eerie silence of the movie will haunt you long after you've hit the stop button.

The Silence of the Lambs
Anthony Hopkins as Dr. Hannibal Lecter the Cannibal will scare you into numbness. Not for the weak-hearted -- the psychological thriller is a two-hour-long hair raiser about FBI agent Clarice Starling, who tries to gain insight into a murderer's mind by interviewing psychopath Hannibal.

Halloween
A Halloween night turns deadly when a former child murderer escapes from the mental hospital and returns to his small hometown to terrorize a babysitter. Soon her friends start disappearing one by one....

Poltergeist
Watch this before you go haunted house hunting this Halloween. A suburban family is visited by ghosts who play odd tricks on them, and soon the events build up to a frightening climax when the ghosts kidnap the youngest daughter.

A Nightmare on Elm Street
The film that spawned six sequels and made Freddy Krueger into a household monster is still a must-watch horror flick. A group of teenagers start having dreams about a scarred man with razor fingers and soon they are brutally murdered in their sleep. The remaining teen, Nancy, realizes that she has to stay awake to survive. Good luck going to bed after this one!

Alien
This ultimate horror-sci-fi combo is an eerie look at what happens when a space crew stumbles upon an unknown planet and finds alien eggs.

Night of the Living Dead
This black-and-white film can still disturb you to death. You'll cross your fingers for the group of people who hide in a farmhouse, trying to avoid being killed by the dead who have come back to life.

The Exorcist
You'll know why The Exorcist is the most bloodcurdling movie ever made when you watch the brutal depiction of a 12-year-old girl possessed by an evil spirit as the exorcist tries to save her.

Seven
Shock, nausea, and utter fright, you'll feel it all at the pit of your stomach while watching Seven. The intense psychological drama follows two detectives, played by Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, as they try to catch a maniac who plans to kill seven people, one for each of the seven deadly sins.

10-funniest-women-of-all-time

I must say, compiling this list didn't give me nearly the problems that some of my other greatest of all-time columns did. To be honest about it, the lack of historically funny comediennes is slightly disturbing.

Maybe it's just the simple fact that more men enter the comedy field than women, but whatever the case, there is an obvious disparity between the number of male and female comedians.

There have, however, been several outstanding females who have captured the hearts of Americans everywhere with their outlandish jokes, comedy routines and film performances.

In order, here are the greatest female comediennes of all-time.

Lucille Ball

This selection was an absolute no-brainer. Ball, who is on my 10 funniest people of all-time list, is undoubtedly the greatest female jokester ever. For over 50 years, Ball brought laughter into the homes and hearts of millions of Americans - and in the process, became one of the most recognized and loved entertainers in the world. Known simply as "Lucy," Ball won the hearts of Americans across all social and cultural lines with her hair-brained schemes.

Phyllis Diller

This selection was probably the toughest one on the list for me to make. However, after considering Diller's longevity and overall comedic aptitude, I couldn't, in good conscious, rate anyone other than Ball, higher than Diller. Although Diller was 37-years-old when she began her theatrical career, Diller has appeared in 16 movies and tons of television specials and shows. She has also recorded five major comedy albums and written four best-selling books.

Carol Burnett

I was initially going to put Burnett in the number two spot, but thought better of it after some serious consideration. Whatever the case, Burnett was an outstanding comedienne in her own right. Her variety television show, which I watched relentlessly as a child, for nearly every one of the 12 years it was on CBS, was absolutely hilarious. Burnett's career also has some serious longevity, which always helps when it comes to greatest of all-time lists.

Marla Gibbs

I don't care what anyone says. Gibbs is definitely one of my favorite female comediennes of all-time. I know she wasn't actually a comedienne, but she was as capable as anyone on this list of causing someone to double over in laughter. As a matter of fact, she was so good in her role as "Florence" on the "Jeffersons" that she got her own spin-off, "227," which did quite well for a number of years also. Whatever the case, Gibbs was absolutely hilarious and is one of my favorite female comedienne's ever.

Lily Tomlin

I must say that Lily Tomlin is one of my favorite female comedienne's ever. From the hilarious characters she played on "Laugh-In" to the many roles in numerous films, Tomlin has captured the hearts of millions for over three decades.

Bea Arthur

All I can say about Bea Arthur is that her dry wit may be unmatched by everyone on this list. From her 1970s television show, "Maude" to her role as Dorothy on the Golden Girls, Arthur has brought laughter into millions of homes for nearly five decades.

Gilda Radner

Although Radner only lived to the age of 42 because of ovarian cancer, her career was more than good enough to make her one of the funniest women ever. Most people may remember Radner for outrageous characters she played on Saturday Night Live, but she was also featured on the National Lampoon Radio Hour with John Belushi, Chevy Chase and Bill Murray. Radner's life may have ended prematurely, but her incredible work will live on forever.

Joan Rivers

Although I'm not a big fan of Rivers and I find her quite grating at times, I didn't think this list would be complete without her on it. Rivers has delighted audiences for nearly five decades with her quick sense of humor. Regardless of my personal feelings for Rivers, I have to admit that she is one of the funniest women of al-time.

Wanda Sykes

In less than a decade, Sykes has proven herself to be absolutely comical. From her outrageous stand-up routines to her continuing film work, Sykes has carved out a niche for herself that has already put her in the top 10 of funniest women of all-time.

Mo' Nique

Like Rivers, I have to admit I'm not the world's biggest fan of Mo' Nique. However, I have to admit that she is quite talented, both as a stand-up comedian and actress. Regardless of my feelings, I think Mo' Nique belongs on this list.

10-funniest-african-american-comedies-all-time

The older I get and the more I get slapped with a cold, hard dose of reality - which is everyday - the more I appreciate a good comedy. We all know how it is to come after a tough day or week and a good comedy is always a good way to relax.
I have compiled a list of the 10 greatest African-American comedies of all-time.

Readers are encouraged to submit their own respective top 10 list which will be published at a later date.
Let's Do it Again (1975)

Bill Cosby and Sidney Poitier are absolutely hilarious in the sequel to their first movie together, Uptown Saturday Night. John Amos and Jimmy Walker add credible performances to this all-star cast, but it is Cosby who leads the fun and laughs in my favorite African-American comedy of all-time. If you haven't seen this film, I can guarantee you that you won't be disappointed.
Coming to America (1988)

This film has been recognized by a lot of people as the greatest African-American comedy of all-time and if it weren't for my affinity for Let's Do it Again, I can easily see why. This film may have been Edie Murphy's finest performance. Combined with the antics of Arsenio Hall, this duo was absolutely masterful in this film.
Car Wash (1976)

Richard Pryor and George Carlin helped to make this film one of the most beloved of all African-American movies. This film was great stuff that brings the 70s back all over again. God, what a great time it was too! Oh well, back to reality. This film is a through and through winner.
Harlem Nights (1989)

Eddie Murphy directed and starred in this great comedy that also featured Red Foxx, Richard Pryor, Arsenio Hall, Della Reese and Danny Aiello. If you're looking for a movie that will make you laugh - this is it. The fight scene between Murphy and Reese is unforgettable.
Friday (1995)

When writing this movie, Ice Cube was quoted as saying he wanted to create a fun film just like "Car Wash." It may not have been "Car Wash" but Ice Cube's movie was a classic in its own right that spurred two sequels that were pretty good in their own right. Chris Tucker's performance make this film is a definite top-ten selection on the all-time list.
Bustin' Loose (1981)

I don't think you'll see this film on many top ten lists, but for me, Richard Pryor and Cicely Tyson, (whom I still have a crush on) made this film unforgettable. It's an enjoyable film that also had several touching moments as well. This is definitely one of my favorites of all-time.
Big Momma's House (2000)

This film featured Martin Lawrence at his wise-cracking very best. Co-star, Nia Long is always a treat for the eyes, which never hurts, but it was seeing Lawrence in costume as "Big Momma" that did the trick. Playing two roles proved to be a cakewalk for Lawrence who is also currently appearing in the sequel, "Big Momma's House 2."
How High (2001)

This film will never get the critics attention but for downright laughs, Method Man and Redman are absolutely hilarious in this movie. The performances of mike Epps and Obba Babatunde only served to make this film even more hilarious. If you don't want to laugh, then don't get this movie because if you do, you'll be on the floor in stitches - guaranteed.
White Chicks (2004)

The performances of Marlon and Shawn Wayans made this movie an instant favorite for me. Both brothers are absolutely hilarious in drag as two white women. The film and the Wayans brothers are both a sight to see.
I'm Gonna' Git You Sucka (1988)

This Keenan Ivory Wayans production was a spoof of every hilarious 70s "blaxploitation" comedy that featured Keenan Ivory Wayans at his very best. Damon Wayans and Kadeem Hardison were also very funny in this film, which was spawned a slew of spoof comedies since it was released nearly 20 years ago.

10-fun-facts-last-harry-potter

The final Harry Potter movie, "Deathly Hallows Part 2", has hit theaters. Even though there might be some sadness felt among movie fans, that doesn't mean there aren't still some fun facts to be had.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, actress Emma Watson spoke about her feelings toward co-stars Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint. Of Daniel Radcliffe, she said that she will miss the energy she got from just being around him. And she referred to Rupert Grint as her "rock".

The last Harry Potter movie, Deathly Hallows Part 2, was written by Steve Kloves. He wrote seven of the movies in the series. The next film you can see from him will be The Amazing Spider-Man (as a co-writer).

Fun fact on Emma Watson's hair: Actress Emma Watson cut her hair short as a way of saying goodbye to her character Hermoine.

Actress Helen McCrory (Narcissa Malfoy) on being sad Harry Potter's over: "As far as people being sad it's over, I don't know. We're British. Any violent show of emotion is looked down upon. Nothing a good pint and a slap on the back doesn't communicate!"

One thing that wasn't in the Harry Potter finale that could have been: A naked Daniel Radcliffe. There's a nude scene in the book that was changed by the director. The director said he changed it because he thought him being naked would be "distracting".

Emma Watson put attending Brown University on hold so she could focus on filming Deathly Hallows.

Fun fact on Deathly Hallows: Deathly Hallows Part 2 has a 97 percent fresh rating on the popular review site Rotten Tomatoes. The last film is by far the freshest of any of the movies in the series.

The part in the Deathly Hallows Part 2 which concerned Daniel Radcliffe the most was the scene where he journeys through the Forbidden Forest.

One thing that didn't change by the finale: Daniel Radcliff has never been to Rupert Grint's house.

Fun fact on Daniel Radcliffe's future goals: Now that the Harry Potter finale is finished, actor Daniel Radcliffe told Entertainment Weekly that he wants to "focus on odd things that some people might love and other s might hate but at the very least will get a reaction." And eventually, he would like to direct.

Fun Facts Sources:

Rotten Tomatoes (www.rottentomatoes.com)

Entertainment Weekly. "Casting the Spell" by Adam Markovitz. (July 8/15)

Entertainment Weekly. "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 Finale Preview" by Jeff Jensen. (July 8/15)

Entertainment Weekly. "The Story of Daniel Radcliffe", "The Story of Emma Watson", and "The Story of Rupert Grint" by Jeff Jensen. (July 8/15)

10-fun-facts-dinosaurs-kids

Dinosaurs - these prehistoric creatures have been central to TV shows geared toward children. Why? Like people, they vary in shape, color and temperament. Humans can relate to their daily struggles for survival.
Ten fun facts about dinosaurs for kids:

Fact #1: Current mystery: the lifespan of a dinosaur. Scientists speculate that they lived for up to 200 years. Yes! If true, these species had plenty of years to roam the earth.
Fact #2: Dinosaur skulls had "windows" or large holes. These openings made their skulls lighter. For those who had skulls as long as a car, this feature helped them lift their heads effortlessly.
Fact #3: Scientists are still looking for dinosaurs. They estimate that 1,850 members of this group may lay under continents such as Antarctica and South America. To date, they have found 1000 different species of non-avian dinosaurs and over 500 distinct genera.
Fact #4:The average Joe believes dinosaurs were massive. Truth: most dinosaurs were smaller - almost human size. Since larger bones fossilize easier, bigger dinosaurs have been discovered and re-created for the public.
Fact #5: Paleontologist Richard Owen formulated the word "dinosaur" based on the Greek meaning of "terrible lizard". This term was meant to infer these beings were much more majestic in stature than a common lizard.
Fact #6: Most dinosaurs were akin to birds. These beings had a single body opening for urination, defecation and reproduction. They also built nests and laid eggs.
Fact #7: Herbivorous dinosaurs lived in herds for protections. The numbers could range into the thousands. Saurapods are classified in this category. They traveled several miles a day leaving visible "superhighways".
Fact #8: Paleontologists, people who study fossils. make mistakes. For example, Gideon Mantell (1790-1852) place a thumb claw atop the nose of an Iguanodon. This error took 40 years to correct.
Fact #9: Some dinosaurs have more notoriety than others. The Stegosaurus is the state dinosaur of Colorado. It's skeleton was found in Morrison, CO, around 1982.
Fact #10: Historians believe dinosaurs existed 65 million years ago and survived through three periods of the Mesozoic era: Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous.
Surprised? These ten fun facts about dinosaurs for kids show that several myths surround them. They weren't all the ferocious, over-sized meat-eating monsters depicted in movies, but man-sized plant eaters taking care of their families like the rest of creation. Go figure.

10-facts-american-millionaires

Millionaires - they make up 7% of U.S. households. As a result, their lifestyles are foreign to the average citizen. Surprisingly, data on this group shows that they are more like their less affluent peers and less like the stereotypes associated with rich people.

Ten facts about American millionaires:
Money trouble is part of the millionaire pedigree. On average, they go bankrupt at least 3.5 times. Think Donald Trump.
Guess what? Millionaires aren't slackers. Despite their immense wealthy, 80% of them still work. Only 20% of this crowd are actually retired.
Be of good cheer! Most millionaires today are first-generation millionaires. They rose above their parent's level of income to achieve great financial success.
Ancestry is factor in money. Russians comprise the highest concentration of millionaire households in America. Scottish rank second and Hungarians third. Not being born in America is an advantage in the sense that new immigrants have not acclimated themselves to a lifestyle of high consumption.
Shocker: most millionaires don't live in mansions. These folks reside in regular neighborhoods with the rest of the population.
Want to make a lot of dough? Start a business and get an education. 50% of millionaires are self-employed and 80% of them are college graduates.
Millionaires aren't the consumers driving pricy cars. In general, they prefer vehicles made by Ford. Cadillacs are second. This may have to do with their age (on average 61-years-old) and the fact that cars are poor investments.
Like their less affluent neighbors, millionaires have dream jobs in mind for their children. Most want their offspring to be accountants or attorneys. Tax advisors and estate planning experts are runner-ups.
Teachers don't earn big salaries. Yet, tats indicate 12% of educators are millionaires. How? They sell lesson plans online to their colleagues.
In 1900, only 5,000 millionaire households graced U.S. soil. Since, this number has jumped to over 9 million.
In conclusion, the above ten facts about American millionaires reveal that they experience the same ups and downs as regular folk. The only difference is that the way in which they determined to earn a buck works for them.

10-completely-untrue-facts-vampires

After posting the first list of the ten biggest fallacies about vampires I decided to add on a few more just to clear up the muddy water surrounding this somewhat touchy subject. Vampires are often romanticized; look at "The Lost Boys", "Interview With The Vampire", "Twilight" and "Blade" and you see the bloodsucking creatures of the night portrayed as enthralling, alluring, captivating and almost irresistible. The trouble with that is not every vampire looks like Brad Pitt or has the charisma of Tom Cruise (that was hard to type because Tom Cruise would make a better zombie than a vampire).
In case you missed the previous articles, you can catch theme here:

Vampires - Zombies - Werewolves - Faeries, Elves, Trolls

(1) Accents: (Thanks Sheryl Young) No, not every vampire has an accent although I did know a guy named Vinnie from Brooklyn that was a half-vampire. He looked like something that stepped out of a late 70's casting call for Saturday Night Fever. The accent is what killed me (literally). Vamps can don an accent to flirt or get out of a sticky situation so beware of their trickery. The worst accent pick for a vampire? Anything Asian, "I want to suck your blood" doesn't sound all that sexy in Chinese.

(2) Capes & Top Hats: OK, I have to stop this one post haste. When was the last time you were at the mall and saw someone in a cape with a top hat? One of the biggest missions of a vampire is to blend in and by dressing in flamboyant fashion, you aren't exactly going to mix in with the suburban crowd now are you? Sure, people (mortals) like to dress up like Dracula for Halloween but try pulling that in McAllen, Texas in the middle of summer and see how far you get before you hear the click of a double barrel shotgun.

(3) Invisibility: Vampires can't appear in photographs. False. Vampires can't cast a reflection in a mirror. False. Vampires can make themselves invisible. Sometimes. This is a tricky subject as some vampires have stronger abilities than others. Most vampires can choose to make themselves non-reflective in photographs and with mirrors but actually making yourself invisible takes a lot of physical and mental energy and can leave your drained and somewhat defenseless. Get rid of that concept of an Invisibility Cloak, that is Harry Potter fodder.

(4) Cats: Vampires don't like cats. Well, I know a lot of humans (mortals) that don't like cats. Its personal preference. A lot of this has to do with mummy's not liking cats - which is another fallacy that was based on Egyptian lore. Egyptians worshipped felines and often entombed them with their dead for companionship. It is said that mummies that were cursed feared the spirits of the cats as they were protectors. This has nothing to do with vampires so please, don't assume a vampire stole your kitty if it goes missing.

(5) Party Like A Rock Star: I have known some very intense vampires that could party with the professionals but eventually it takes its toll. There are certain human constraints that you are bound to; after all you are still inside a human body and if you suck down Red Bull and push your body to its limit, your flesh sack will start to decompose quicker than a body on the death farm.

(6) Time Travel: Good lord. Are we seriously still clinging to this misnomer? Darren Shan made mention of something close to time travel in his Cirque Du Freak series but had a much better explanation of it. It isn't time travel but rather the ability to move faster than the human (mortal) can comprehend. Some mortals do possess the power to see a vampire moving at lightening fast speed and those are usually the ones that become minions.

(7) You Have A Sexy Neck! It isn't a requirement to bite someone on the neck to bleed them or feed from them. Do you limit yourself to only using a fork or spoon to eat food? No. So why would vampires limit themselves to only the neck area. This goes back to those silly, sappy movies of a vampire seducing a woman. That alone has sold more gothic noir than any teen or tween vamp themed movie. Personally, the thigh is the best area to work with. It's meaty and in a somewhat private area so the fleshie (mortal) can go about his or her daily life without having people stare at them. If you thought a hickie was bad, imagine taking the subway with a huge gash in your neck.

(8) Verbosity: Most mortals think that vampires are highly educated. Some are but most benefit from hundreds of years of trial and error. Ever see a dog run into a sliding glass door when it sees a bird outside? The same thing happens with vampires. Make the same mistake over and over again and finally it sinks in. Don't feed off of those who are intoxicated, don't go running around blabbing that some hot chick turned you into a vampire and watch your manners when eating a steak in a restaurant. Some vampires can charm the pants off of anyone, that isn't something that is inherent to vamps - it's just that they've had years to perfect their con.

(9) Technologically Challenged: Think a vampire can Tweet on Twitter? You are so completely wrong. While the old school vampires often shun things like computers, cable television and microwaves the new breed embrace technology. It makes staying in contact a lot easier. Before you say, "But Freak, why can't they just use their mental powers to communicate?" If that was on your mind I invite you to step in a little closer so I can slap you. Stop watching and believing all those late night movies! If vamps used mental powers to communicate you would be hearing more voices than Jim Carrey in "Bruce Almighty". Modern vampires are also addicted to text messaging but I have to admit I am rather nauseated with their little iconic tags like "BYL" (bite you later) or "YSBINGW" (you suck but in a good way).

(10) No Sense of Humor: I will admit it, there are some creatures of the night that are just boring. They take everything way too seriously and if you crack a joke about them looking a little pale or what their favorite blood type is, they throw a royal fit. Thankfully most have a hearty sense of humor and don't get too uptight when fleshies crack a few jokes at their expense. One thing you don't want to do is get "touchy feely" with a vamp. Some really hate to be touched by anyone so a human encroaching on their personal space is enough to set them off.

7-wonders-world

They say that there are seven wonders of the world. I disagree. I think there is eight. Where is the 8th one located, you ask? I have your answer. The answer is in my feet. For inexplicable reasons, I have an abnormal difference between my big toe and second toe.
My big toe is extremely larger than my second toe. That is not the oddest part. The oddest part is the gap that I have between my big toe and second toe. The gap is literally big enough to fit a 6th toe. It's not just like this on one of my feet - it's on both feet. It's quite amazing to look at, I must say. I occasionally joke around and tell people that I once had six toes. They laugh and chuckle, but then they look down at my toes and are like "Whoa, you weren't kidding, were you?"

There may be other individuals with a larger gap and difference between their big toe and second toe, but I have yet to meet that person. I'm not even sure that person exists. If you do exist, then please contact me. We could totally start some kind of "big-toe-gap meet-up group" or something.

I must admit that it is a special feeling being a little different than everybody else. But, folks, it is not all that glamorous. When you have toes like me, it is unbelievably hard to find the right shoes. If I find a shoe that fits my big toe perfectly, then it ends up being way too big on my other four toes. If I find a shoe that fits my other four toes perfectly, then it ends up being way too snug for my big toe. Life is not easy having weird toes! I speak from experience.

The other disadvantage of having such a large toe with a big gap, is it can often be utilized as a handle for other people. For instance, I was playing tackle football the other day with some friends. I was playing barefoot, as I believe my speed increases when I am barefoot . . . I run like the wind when I am barefoot! However, somehow, some way, somebody was able to catch me. He dove onto the ground and stretched out his arm. I was just about to score a touchdown, but then, BAM, I was stopped! This man had wrapped his whole hand around one of my big toes and yanked me to the ground. Dang, if only I had normal toes like everybody else. If my toe wasn't so big, with such a big gap, then this man would not have been able to molest my big toe like he did. Thus, I would've scored the game winning touchdown in a recreational football game that nobody cared about.

Despite the disadvantages, I still carry on with life. I keep my head up held high. I am proud of my toes. I mean, seriously, how many other people can fit a tennis ball between their toes like I can?

7-ways-celebrate-national-courtesy

Celebrate National Courtesy Month (September) by putting the needs of others before your own. You can do this easily by incorporating a few acts of kindness into your daily routine. Here's how. Just:
1. Be quiet in the morning. Allow your spouse and children to get a few extra z's without being awaken by the clanging of pots or pans or heavy footsteps. You'll see that they'll get out of bed with more joy.

2. Avoid cutting off other drivers on the freeway. Speeding and quickly passing in front of others without concern for their welfare won't cut down your travel time by much anyway. You'll still get work 5 to 10 minutes early (or late).

3. Make coffee at work. Don't suck down the last cup and walk away as if you didn't know the pot was empty. Celebrate National Courtesy Month by mixing up a new brew so the next person doesn't have to face the disappointment of having nothing to wake them up right away.

4. Wait an extra minute for a bathroom stall. Give the guy at work wearing a cast a chance to go first. Then, follow suit. Even if he doesn't say thank you, he'll be grateful inside.

5. Volunteer to work late. Support your company's goals and surprise the person who usually stays behind with an early out. He (or she) probably really needs a break.

6. Toot someone else's horn during a project. Acknowledge the skills and efforts your co-worker brought to the table and how he made the project a success. Allow him to have the spotlight.

7. Happily eat your dinner. Celebrate National Courtesy Month by not criticizing the food. Show your appreciation to the cook with your silence or praise over what was done well.

8. Negotiate on after-hours fun. Be amicable as you discuss where to go and what you want to do. If you've gotten your way the last few times, take one for the team and let your significant other or children pick.

9. Share more of your bed space. Scoot over and make room for the person sleeping next to you. Appreciate the fact that you actually have someone.

10. Lower the sound of your alarm. In anticipation of the next day, turn down your clock radio alarm. This way, you won't startle any of your other housemates.

See how easily you can celebrate National Courtesy Month. Do a few of these things this month (September) and make the people in your life smile and have a better day.

7-inexpensive-ways-watch-favorite-movies

With the price of watching a movie in a movie theater at a totally ridiculous charge and with dvd businesses, like Netfix, raising their rates, I thought I would find other avenues of getting to watch my favorite movies and shows. Here are the top 7 ways you can watch your favorite movies without going broke!

The #7 way to watch your favorite movies is the more costly of the top 7, but even so it is still considerably cheaper than going to the movie theater. It is buying movies off of your satellite service. With Directv I know it cost around $4.99 with a $1.50 fee. It is still cheaper to splurge on an occasional movie from satellite tv than going to the movies.
#6 is the matinee movie. With this option you still get to watch a movie at the theater but it is usually a lot less expensive.

#5 is buy movies from eBay or Amazon. You can find just about any movie you want for a pretty reasonable price. You can also check out Half.com which is an extension of eBay.com.
#4 is to use your Tivo or DVR. You can record multiple shows at one time. Of course this may not include new releases but there are several channels that play great tv movies and even real movies. You can record them to watch at a later date.

#3 is Hulu.com. I came upon this website a few months ago when I was trying to find a website where I could watch my soap operas. It is free so that makes it even better. I think you can pay a fee for Hulu Plus. I am not sure what that pays for, but it may be worth checking into.
The #2 way to watch movies is Redbox. Using Redbox it is only $1.00 per night you have the dvd. Redbox usually has new releases. When you sign up using your email address you will periodically get emails for a free movie rental.

The #1 way to watch your favorite movies is to utilize and take advantage of your local library. Most libraries are free to join and you can check out movies for free. You would be surprised of the many choices and selections of movies you will find.
So, there you have it! You don't have to go broke to watch your favorite movies and enjoy a movie night with your family.

7-halloween-quotes

Halloween is the spookiest time of the year. While there are many celebrating with costume parties, children dress up as ghosts, princesses, zombies, and many others as they go house to house to fill their bags full of candy. In celebration of this holiday that occurs on October 31, here are some quotes:
"First of all, it was October, a rare month for boys."-Ray Bradbury

"A grandmother pretends she doesn't know who you are on Halloween."-Erma Bombeck

"Nothing on Earth so beautiful as the final haul on Halloween night."-Steve Almond

"There is a sacred horror about everything grand. It is easy to admire mediocrity and hills; but whatever is too lofty, a genius as well as a mountain, an assembly as well as a masterpiece, seen too near, is appalling."-Victor Hugo

"Witch and ghost make merry on this last of dear October's days."-Unknown

"Shadows of a thousand years rise again unseen, Voices whisper in the trees, "Tonight is Halloween!"-Dexter Kozen

"From ghoulies and ghosties and long leggety beasties and things that go bump in the night, Good Lord, deliver us!"-Unknown

6-tv-shows-worth-watching

This particular article is a branch off of a previous article I had posted called "9 TV Shows You Need to be Watching Now." Unlike my previous article, instead of focusing on TV shows currently airing, I'll be shedding light on TV shows of the past that you need to check out. Of course this list ranges from popular to the lesser known, so keep reading and give these shows a chance!
Alias
God bless Jennifer Garner. She plays Sydney Bristow's character to a T. This show came recommended by an uncle who finds women lower than him and incapable of much, so you see my surprise when he loved the show Alias. Sydney Bristow is quite kick ass as a double agent for the CIA and another agency who pretends to be the CIA. I can watch these episodes over and over. There's five seasons, though I wish there were a lot more. Jennifer Garner and Michael Vartan who plays her handler Michael Vaughn are electric together and the action and suspense never stops.

Dead Like Me
Unfortunately, this HBO series was not long lived, but the two seasons it did have were brilliant. The idea of Grim Reapers, if you will is original for a TV show. Plus, the witty, sarcastic, bitch attitude of the main character George/Georgia is hilarious as are the other diverse characters housed throughout the show. Roxy is my favorite by far. After being killed by a flying Russian toilet from outer space, Georgia is turned into a Grim Reaper and must take the souls of those that are destined to die. It is quite a comedy with a touch of drama mixed in. It is a must see!

Wonderfalls
A hilarious, one season TV show you have to watch. To put it simply, in the first episode you are introduced to Jaye Tyler, a Brown graduate who begins to see inanimate things talking to her like a wax lion, stuffed animals and so on. Jaye's character is hilarious, as are the rest of the cast of characters alongside her from her lesbian sister, uptight mother and cute bartender friend. Oh, the drama that ensues and her crazy adventures when she tries to deal with her sudden ability to attract objects that shouldn't be talking to her.

Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant didn't last long and the acting isn't amazing because it's a cast of fresh actors, but I did enjoy this show. Even after the show was canceled halfway through the season, when it was finally released on DVD I bought it. The plot is based around Christina, a girl who washes up on a small New Jersey shore in Point Pleasant during a thunderstorm. She has no recollection of how she got there and you soon find out she is the daughter of the devil; her presence in the town causes people to act out of character. I wish they would've kept it on for a chance for a second season, but it didn't work that way.

Veronica Mars
Veronica Mars , by far, has to be my favorite show of them all. Veronica Mars is quirky, sarcastic, cute and witty. Kristen Bell plays her perfectly as the daughter of a P.I. She does some own private investigation of her own, including a case on her dead best Lily that just didn't add up. I was hooked from the start. There's only three seasons and the creator is even planning to have a movie in the works in the future. I sure hope there's one. You'll fall in love with Veronica Mars, her best friend Wallace Finnell, and her dad Keith Mars.

Gilmore Girls
Who hasn't heard of the famous Gilmore Girls? I had heard of it years before I even gave in to watching it and I was pleasantly surprised to find that I really did enjoy the show. Sure, it is kind of chick-flicky with Rory, the main character, and her mother Lorelai's relationship, but the show was so good it ran for seven seasons. There's everything you would expect in a TV show more suited for teenage girls and their moms, but it stills deserves to be watched.

Do enjoy my suggestions!

interesting-facts-penises

Truth: famed Austrian neurologist Sigmund Freud thought penises were key to unlocking the mysteries of human existence. His theories about mental disorders revolved around male genitalia - an individuals desire for this organ or fear of losing it. Fortunately, these days more concrete data is available about the penis through modern science giving way to more meaningful information.
Six interesting facts about penises:

Blue whales have the largest penis measuring between 8 and 10 feet long with a girth of 12 to 14 inches. This marine mammal's testes weigh up to 100 pounds and can ejaculate over 25 pints of sperm. Conversely, in proportion to body size, humans are considered to have the largest penises amongst primates.
Throughout history, circumcision has served different purposes. For ancient Hebrews, this act symbolized ties to the Almighty. Decades later, followers of this practice saw circumcision as a method to reducing bacteria. More recently, physicians utilize the leftover foreskins of infants to cultivate new skin on burn victims.
Penises vary species to species. Cats have barbed penises with 120 to 150 spines that point backwards. Canines possess a bulbus glandis at the base of their penises which 'locks' into the vagina during intercourse. Phallostethus cuulong (a fish) have a jagged hooked penis that rests on the head.
Guys, quit worrying! 85% of females report being satisfied with their partner's penis size. They prefer width over length. Also, if you're hung like King Kong, but short and pear-shaped, your extra-baggage doesn't make you more attractive to the opposite sex.
Leonardo da Vinci was an inventor, painter and writer. Yet, despite his intelligence, he believed that erections were caused by the wind. Only after further study - the dissection of hung males who died with erections - did he discover they came from blood.
"Blue balls" aren't a made-up condition after all. This slang term refers to prostatic congestion, which leads to discomfort and pain. Men with this issue can relieve themselves with a warm shower, aspirin or orgasm. Of course, most sufferers prefer the latter.
Surprised? These six interesting facts about penises are shockers. They go against conventional folklore about this organ. Thankfully, knowledge is power.

5-tips-using-shadows

The source of all photography is light. Without light you don't have a fighting chance. Wherever there is light there are shadows. Lying within the shadows are some great photography opportunities for the taking. Soft light is generally the easiest to work with because it creates soft shadows but, soft light can also lack impact. If you know how to use shadows in the right places you can add drama to any photograph. These 5 tips will help you create imaginative and creative photos using shadows.
Look for shadows.
Of course, the best source for shadows is natural sunlight, but you can create the safe effect in a studio using electronic flash or tungsten lamps. Photographing foggy areas that are lit by the sun will give you a hazy, soft photograph. To add drama photograph the sun as it falls through the trees or over water. You can also use the sun's shadowing effect to capture snow, dew, and foliage. Shadows add contrast and depth to your images creating striking effects.

Get up early and stay up late.
When shooting outdoors you can use the long shadows produced by the low angled sun to lead the viewer's eye in a certain path through the photograph. Shadows can be very striking and demand the viewer's attention as soon as they look. Shadows that angle in toward the camera are also great for catching attention and creating interest. During the day time the shadows tend to fall flat and wide and can be used in a number of ways. Sometimes the fat shadows are comical and make great stock photos.

Make the shadow the main subject.
Instead of trying to run away from shadows, embrace them. For an unconventional, but creative photograph make the shadow the key element. Keep your eyes open in your travels for shadow projections across the ground or on the side of a building. The center of shadows, the umbra, is dark and deep. The edges of the shadow, the penumbra, are soft and muted. If the light source is true you will not get the penumbra effect, but instead deep dark shadow. This is the best way to capture a shadow clearly.

Use Silhouettes.
Using Silhouettes is a great way to harness the power of shadows. The subject should be easily identifiable by the viewer. Try using birds, people, buildings, shapes, flowers, trees, or whatever you can think of. The viewer should be able to tell what the picture is as soon as they look at it, not just a black blob of a shadow on a page.

Be Creative.
Instead of hating the shadows and running from them, use them and work with them. Existing shadows in a photograph can create contrast and intensity. The contrast will help define existing subjects. Shadows also create interesting lines that don't always occur in nature. Try snapping shadows when they are long and misshapen, or even when they are flat and wide. Any distortion can be used to create an interesting subject for your photographs.

5-tips-unique-speed-skating-photographs

Photographing competitive events can be challenging for almost any photographer. Capturing a competitive event like speed skating can be even harder because of the fast paced action and movement. These five tips will help you improve your shots when photographing speed skating events. These tips can also help improve your other sports photography as well.

1. Focus on your target area 

When photographing speed skaters you should start be reviewing the course and visualizing where the skaters will be. Arrive a day or two in advance to survey the seating and press area where you may get the best pictures. The day of the event, arrive a couple of hours early to set up and warm up.

Watch the skaters as they warm up on the course to see where your best impact of focus will be. When you have chosen the best possible spot, stay there and mentally focus on a specific target area. As the skaters warm up take a few shots as there riders pass through the pre specified target zone. First follow the skaters with your viewfinder and as they enter the pre focused destination slowly hit the shutter release. This will give you a sharp, well composed shot.

2. Pan your camera with the skater 

Panning your shots with long shutter speeds will give you a high impact photograph. The skater you are focusing on will remain sharp and clear, while the background becomes blurred. Practice achieving a smooth, sweeping, panning motion, before you shoot the skater. Use extended shutter speeds while following the skater into your focused area for the best composition.

Start by following the skater and gently release the shutter while continuing to smoothly pan at the same speed as the skater. You have to use your photographic sense of timing and speed when performing this type of photography. Take as many shots as possible because you may find the first few are blurred.

3. Create abstract images
If you want to take panning shots to the next level just increase the shutter speed to ¼ or ½ or more. This is a very valuable technique to learn when shooting skaters that are riding tightly as a group. Focus on only one skater, preferably the foremost or most visible. As you pan the group, focus on that one skater while shooting. The speeds of the other skaters will leave ghostly trails in the picture while the single skater remains sharp and unobstructed. Try setting your camera in continuous shooting mode because, like regular panning the first few may come out jagged and blurred. You want to achieve smooth as possible results.

4. Use a camera bracket
If you have prior consent of a skater or of the team, consider mounting a camera on one of the skater's helmets. You can buy brackets that connect to the tripod brushing on your camera and then are attached to the helmets. There are specific camera brackets for helmets that are light weight and do not cause a lot of drag for the skater.

How do you take the pictures? The best way is to connect a radio transmitter so you can remotely fire the shutter release. This technique is best if you want to have pictures directly on the ice, but you know you can't be there.

5. Use the outtakes
When you get a chance to develop you photographs you may find that a lot of them are blurred, fuzzy, or just lacking in composition. Don't worry, with a little bit of time spent using Photoshop you will be able to polish your photographs in no time, and keep most of the images as stock sports photos.