10 Tips for Teaching How to Search the Web

THE POSSIBILITIES PROLIFERATE, CONSIDER ADOPTING A QUERY-BASED APPROACH

Teaching how to search the Web is hot--it's become standard practice in public-service librarianship. We teach classes, hold workshops, distribute handouts, mount tutorials on the Web. We know our sources and don't hesitate to help. Do you want a list of the top search engines? The most substantive directories? Good places to find deep Web content? No problem!

Still, basic questions remain. How are we going about teaching search tools? Are users taking away information they can really use? Does our instruction hold up over time?

From what I've seen, I have concluded that many of us take a descriptive approach to teaching the Web. We are masters at identifying search tools and describing their salient characteristics. We routinely detail their query options, search syntax, and results-ranking schemes. Our instruction is loaded with facts.

The answer lies in the question
As admirable as this approach is, it is ultimately unproductive. Description isn't much help in an environment in which search tools and their features are madly proliferating on an ever-burgeoning Web. There is simply too much to remember, and too much change. How many of us have expended good time and effort giving an in-depth review of a search tool's features, only to see these features mutate or disappear? This is frustrating to us, and it leaves our users with little that they can use.

I propose that we take an approach that is more apt to provide knowledge that endures. I call this a query-based approach because it is based on the individual query. If we teach search tools for their usefulness with specific types of queries, we are giving users a reason to return to these tools. We are identifying needs and finding solutions. Each tool becomes not just a bundle of characteristics but something that fits into an information-finding context. In short, we are providing users with a strategy.

Here are 10 tips for shaping a query-based approach.

1. Apply what we know about library resources to search tools on the Web. Librarians understand the characteristics of library-based research tools and when it is appropriate to use them. With library resources, it is a matter of routine to match the query to the tool. We need to approach Web-based tools in the same spirit. When teaching how to do research on the Web, we should evaluate its information-finding tools based on the queries they support, and recommend them accordingly.
2. Help users find what they need. Users tend to view Web search tools as an amorphous, undifferentiated whole. By the same token, many users believe that there are tools that can answer all queries. If they try a certain tool and are disappointed, they tend to fault the tool rather than their decision to use that tool. It's our job to explain that different search tools serve different purposes and to help users identify which tools match their needs.
3. Define searching broadly. To teach query-based searching, we need to view searching as a process that begins with the quest for information. It is far more than the act of constructing a search statement--in fact, that step comes last. Users should begin the search process by analyzing their query. Do they want to begin with a broad topic and become familiar with its subtopics? Is their topic targeted to a narrow concept or made up of multiple concepts? Are they looking for a specific Web site? Do they want a targeted set of data? Dynamically changing information? Multimedia?

Based on the answers to these kinds of questions, we can help users explore the tools that might bring them results. Once they have chosen the right tool, we can address the matter of constructing search statements.

4. Teach search tools, not just search engines. The Web offers three major types of information-finding tools: directories, search engines, and the deep Web. Teaching search engines alone is not enough. A query-based approach to Web searching encompasses all types of Web-based tools. We need to familiarize users with the full range of tools and the kinds of queries they can address. Search-engine training is limiting, while search-tool training opens up a world of possibility.
5. Teach users to analyze their queries and identify the tools that support them. The following illustrates how useful a query-based approach can be. Here are three queries, all on the topic of American architecture, each of which requires a different type of Web-based tool.

I'm looking for: sites on American architecture.

Use: A professional directory created and annotated by experts.

I'm looking for: the site of the Society of American Registered Architects.

Use: A peer-ranking, human-mediated engine such as Google or Direct Hit.

I'm looking for: a list of architects in Baltimore.

Use: A database on the deep Web such as a phone book.

These examples demonstrate the advantage of analyzing the query first, then choosing the search tool as a second step. Tips 6, 7, and 8 cover each major type of tool in greater detail.

6. For general queries or for topics that need exploring, recommend directories. Directories, especially those compiled and annotated by experts, are appropriate starting points for broad topics. A few examples are the Argus Clearinghouse, InfoMine, and the Librarians' Index to the Internet. These tools give users an opportunity to see what the experts have to say about the best resources available on their topic. With their hierarchical subject listings, directories are also good for browsing. Listed subtopics can help users become familiar with the scope of their topic for further refinement. In addition, directories often include meta pages that are jumping-off points for topical research. It's important to teach directories as human-mediated tools that tend to offer substantive content.
7. For targeted, ambiguous, and sometimes broad queries, recommend search engines. Traditionally, search engines have worked best for targeted or multi-concept queries. Because we are searching the full text of millions of files, we are able to pick up specific and often obscure information. With the current crop of engines, an even wider range of queries is supported. The following examples illustrate this point. These queries range from the specific to the very broad.

Query type: targeted to a narrow topic.

Query: I'd like to view sites about the Hubble telescope.

Use: Peer-ranking, human-mediated engines.

Examples: Google, Direct Hit.


Why? The Web is a community of content creators and users of this content. People who link to external sites from their Web pages exercise judgment about the relevance and value of these sites. Google's relevancy ranking measures this activity. Direct Hit tracks the sites that users select from their search engine results. The collective judgment of millions of these searchers adds up to a continual and dynamic peer ranking. Both types of rankings work quite well when we are searching a narrowly-defined topic.


Query type: targeted to a specific site or other restriction.

Query: I'd like to view NASA documents about the Hubble telescope.

Use: Engines with a searchable site field.

Examples: AllTheWeb, AltaVista, HotBot, IxQuick Metasearch, Northern Light.


Why? Engines that offer "site" or "URL" as a field restriction allow us to retrieve documents from a specific site. These limits may be put into effect through search syntax or menu choices in a search template. This idea can be extended to other types of field delimiters such as geographic location ("I want to see documents from South Africa about Nelson Mandela"), date last modified, language, file type, etc. A number of search engines work well for these types of targeted queries.


Query type: ambiguous or terminology-seeking.

Query: I'm interested in learning about stocks.

Use: Concept-processing, thesaurus-creating engines.

Examples: Excite, SurfWax.


Why? Ambiguous words are always a challenge in a database search. Thesaurus-creating engines can help us narrow our concept to our intended meaning. These engines offer a choice of meanings based on the initial search, from which users can select for a subsequent search. Thesaurus-creating engines, like their library-based counterparts, can also help users choose appropriate terminology for a search.


Query type: general, in-depth.

Query: I'm doing research on renewable energy.

Use: Concept-clustering tools that parse topics into component subtopics.

Examples: Northern Light, Guidebeam, Query Server, Vivisimo.


Why? Concept-clustering tools process a search and return results that are organized into subtopics and relevant sites. This can be very useful when you want to become familiar with different aspects of a topic, are unfamiliar with a topic, or want to be sure you are examining it in depth. In this respect, these tools and directories serve a similar purpose.

8. For information stored in databases or non-textual files, recommend the deep Web. Fixed Web pages are only one part of the content available on the Web. The much larger part is held in databases or nontextual files. Data, graphics, software, dynamically changing information, and multimedia are examples of deep Web content.

This content may be retrieved in a variety of ways. Many databases on the Web are searchable from their own sites, and these sites can be retrieved from directories and search engines. Also, many search engines offer deep Web searches as featured options. For example, it is not unusual to be offered searches for news, multimedia, stock prices, airline tickets, items in Web stores, and much more. A few sites specialize in gathering a collection of links to searchable databases on the Web, for example the Invisible Web. Others, such as ProFusion, search the content of selected databases from a single interface.

9. Avoid getting bogged down in teaching search-tool features. Features come and features go. Trying to keep track of which ones belong with which tool is very difficult. If this is a challenge for us, what about our users? Even if we could keep track of everything, teaching features in and of themselves has little value. We should avoid an approach that says, "This tool does this, that tool does that." This leaves users with numerous details but no grounds for using the tool once they're on their own. It's much better to say, "Search engines have features and they change." Then, give advice about the features to look for based on the nature of the query. Remember: context is everything.
10. Be realistic--and relax! It's amazing to think that we are still in the early years of information-finding tools on the Web. The volatility of this world is sure to continue. Absolve yourself and your users of the burden of tracking a multiplicity of details. Instead, teach what is useful in the actual process of finding information. Rather than elaborating on features, put your attention on the query. This is a lesson that will stand the test of time. degrees7degrees
Steps for this search and those to come:

• Define the nature of the quest.

• Choose the most useful tool.

• Construct the proper search statement.

SEARCH TOOLS AND THEIR URLS

Google: www.google.com

AllTheWeb: alltheweb.com

AltaVista: www.altavista.com

Argus Clearinghouse: www.clearinghouse.net

Direct Hit: www.directhit.com

Excite: www.excite.com

Guidebeam: guidebeam.com

HotBot: hotbot.lycos.com

InfoMine: www.infomine.com

Invisible Web: www.invisibleweb.com

IxQuick Metasearch: www.ixquick.com

Librarians' Index to the Internet: lii.org

Northern Light: www.northernlight.com

ProFusion: www.profusion.com

Query Server: www.queryserver.com

SurfWax: www.surfwax.com

Vivisimo: vivisimo.com

By: Cohen, Laura B., American Libraries

What are the real secrets of success? Here's what some proven winners say

By Julie Scelfo, Newsweek, 9/25/2006

1. Be competitive: "To succeed in business you have to want to win," says Liz Lange, founder and president of Liz Lange Maternity. "Too often, women feel they have to be nice. Don't," says Lange.
2. It's not about friendship: "Women want everyone to like them but it doesn't really matter what people think of you," says Renee Edelman, senior VP of Edelman. "It's that you get the job done and deliver results."
3. Stand up for yourself: Restaurateur Donatella Arpaia is responsible for two restaurants and 140 people. "I protect my interests, their interests. If someone is going to mess with that, I cut them out like cancer."
4. Trust your instincts: Dozens of people tried to talk Lange out of growing her business, now a major force with nationwide distribution at Target. "There are a lot of naysayers out there," says Lange. "Shut out negative noise andgo for it."
5. Always project confidence: Oscar-winning film producer Cathy Schulman says presentation is key. "When someone asks 'How are you?' don't go into a litany of what's wrong with your life," says Schulman. Instead, present yourself as in control and happy.
6. Own your success: Say goodbye to fear and insecurity, says Arpaia. Have confidence in your decisions, and make them.
7. Reach out to other women: When Lange started her business, she called every woman (and man) she admired and asked to meet. "Don't be shy," she says. Schulman begins each day by noting colleagues' accomplishments with a quick call or e-mail. "We don't have golf so create other communities of support."
8. Insist on being well paid: Don't view wanting money as inelegant or "not classy," says Schulman. "Men make decisions on the bottom line. Why shouldn't we?"
9. It's OK to make mistakes: When Arpaia realized a business partnership was doomed, she cut ties and moved on. "Don't obsess over things," she says.
10. Be a problem-solver: If something on Schulman's desk seems difficult to deal with, she tackles it first. "Big problems are an opportunity to grow."

Expert Tips and Tricks for Solving 15 of Your Top Hair Problems

1 "What can I do to make my hair look good--fast?"
QUICK FIX: Shampooing and restyling only your bangs or the layered pieces framing your face can totally freshen up your 'do, says Philip Carreon, co-owner of Estilo Salon in Los Angeles (and stylist to Courteney Cox and Alicia Silverstone, among others). Tip: Fill a spray bottle with water and mist just your roots. Then turn your head upside down and blow-dry for a couple of minutes, lifting at the roots to add extra volume.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: If your usual style scores high on the maintenance scale, consider a cut that works with your natural hair texture so your 'do is more wash-and-wear (example: a short, blunt-cut bob to give fine hair the illusion of fullness).

2 "My bangs won't behave!"
QUICK FIX: Philip tames an unruly fringe with a medium-size round brush and a blow-dryer. He suggests wrapping wet bangs around the brush and blow-drying, pointing the dryer's nozzle straight down. Then, while your hair is still hot, place the brush (or your hand) on top of your bangs and gently flatten them against your forehead while the air cools.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Get a cut that works with your hairline. This might involve longer bangs, brushing them to the side or even growing them out if you have a stubborn cowlick. Note. The wispier your bangs, the harder it is to keep them in place. Opt instead for a heavier fringe.

3 "I have combination hair--oily at the roots and really dry at the ends."
QUICK FIX: Laurent D. of Salon Prive in Los Angeles and New York City (stylist to stars like Shannen Doherty and Gwyneth Paltrow) recommends the following regime. To absorb oil, sprinkle baby powder or dry shampoo (like Klorane Dry Shampoo) on your scalp and brush it through your roots. Then mist the ends of your hair with a leave-in conditioner (like Pantene Pro-V Light Spray Conditioner) and style as usual. (Note: If your hair is black or brown, use the powder sparingly--it's more noticeable on dark tresses.)

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: When you shampoo, concentrate the suds on your scalp, not the ends of your hair. Alternatively, apply conditioner to the ends of your locks, avoiding the roots. A shampoo formulated for combination hair (like Charles Worthington's Balancing Act Oil Regulating Shampoo) targets both problems.

4 "I want my hair to curl under, not flip out, at the ends."
QUICK FIX: Blow-dry sections of your hair around a large-barrel round brush. As you finish drying each section, leave your hair wrapped around the brush for a few seconds to cool and lock in the style. "Removing the brush while your hair is still hot or yanking it out too quickly can pull out the curl," says Damien Miano of New York City's Milano/Viel Salon & Span.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: If you don't like the flipped-out look, avoid shoulder-length hair, advises Damien. "It tends to turn up where it hits your collarbone," he says. "You're better off going for a chin-length or well-below-the-shoulders cut."

5 "How can I make my hair grow faster."
QUICK FIX: On average, hair grows about half an inch a month, no matter what you do to it. To camouflage the difference between growing-out pieces (like bangs) and longer sections, Damien recommends adding layers to your style, using your shorter hair as the shortest layer. Another option: Pin back growing-out sections with pretty barrettes and bobby pinks, or use headbands. Don't skimp on styling products: Mousses, gels and creams help hold shorter strands in place.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Schedule regular trims farther apart than usual (say, every 10 weeks or so) and get only a small amount of hair snipped off--just enough to keep your locks in top condition as they grow.

6 "Any tips on how to make my curly hair straight?"
QUICK FIX: Damien swears by straightening balm (he likes Alterna Hemp Seed Straightening Balm and Salon Selectives Level 10 Smoothing Gel) and either a flat paddle brush or a large round brush. Apply the straightening balm to damp hair. Then divide your hair into small sections and blow-dry one section at a time, using the brush to pull hair straight and taut while you direct the hot air downward. Finish by using a straightening iron on individual sections. "If you're in a rush, just use the iron on the top layers," says Damien.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Ask your stylist about gentle relaxing treatments (like Rusk's Radical Anti-Curl). They work by chemically loosening the curl (and frizz), making it easier to straighten and style your hair.

7 "I hate my new hair color!"
QUICK FIX: If you used a home-coloring kit, call the company's toll-free hotline for advice during hair-color emergencies. According to Louis Licari of New York City's Louis Licari Color Group, applying a hot oil treatment (like Alberto V05 Hot Oil Treatment) to recently dyed hair causes color--especially the semipermanent kind--to fade faster. Leave the product in your hair for 15 minutes, then shampoo out. You can repeat this several times a day without harming your hair.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Go to a professional colorist. She or he can use a special color-removing treatment (Schwarzkopf Igora Modulat, Clairol UnColor) to return your hair to its preprocessed shade.

8 "Help! My new highlights are already changing color."
QUICK FIX: To offset brassy-looking highlights, try an ash brown semipermanent dye, or blend brassiness away with a few blond highlights. (when in doubt, call the hair-color company's toll-free hotline for specific advice.) To brighten fading color, Louis Viel, New York City colorist and co-owner of Miano/Viel Salon & Spa, recommends a color-enhancing shampoo and conditioner (Revlon ColorStay, Paul Mitchell Color Shampoo).

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Wear a hat to protect your hair color from the sun, or use a leave-in styling product with an UV filter (like Clairol Daily Defense Fortifying Leave-In Conditioning Spray). Color lasts longer on healthy hair. so keep your locks in shape with regular conditioning treatments and frequent trims. And if red is your dream shade, be aware that auburn dyes fade the fastest.

9 "My hair is too think and hushy."
QUICK FIX: If you have straight locks, apply a silicone-based setting lotion (like Sebastian Laminates Spray) from the roots to the ends of damp hair. Blow-dry your hair smooth, pulling sections straight down with a flat paddle brush. For curlier styles, apply gel to the ends of your hair to add weight and blow-dry using a diffuser attachment.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Allen Edwards, owner of the Allen Edwards Salon in Los Angeles (and stylist to Jenna Elfman and Renee Zellweger), recommends thinning out too-thick hair by having it cut in long layers with a straight razor. "It removes more bulk than a blunt cut done using scissors," he explains.

10 "Is there any way to keep my curls pretty and in control?"
QUICK FIX: For best results, Laurent recommends applying a leave-in conditioner (like aussie DewPlex Leave-In Conditioner + Styler In One) to wet hair, then allowing it to dry naturally. If you must blow-dry, use a diffuser attachment to soften the airflow. Keep your head upright while you style; flipping your hair over or from side to side will give it extra volume that you don't need. For added definition, wrap individual ringlets around a large-barrel curling iron.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Get curls cut in long layers; one-length hair tends to create a pyramidlike effect. And avoid brushing your hair when it's dry--it pulls out the curl and creates frizz.

11 "I've got lots of broken hairs. What should I do?"
QUICK FIX: A leave-in conditioner spritzed on dry locks will smooth frazzled ends and temporarily mask the problem, says Philip.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Condition your hair after each shampoo, and try to minimize combing or brushing wet hair--it's more delicate and prone to breakage. Once a week, apply a deep conditioner (like L'Oreal FortaVive Pure Strength 5 Minute Treatment). Or try products formulated to strengthen fragile hair and prevent breakage (like Pantene's new Ultra-V Hair Strengthening Complex). Always use covered elastic bands (the kind with little hooks are best because you can unwind them instead of pulling them out) and be extra gentile when taking out barrettes and clips.

12 "My hair gets so frizzy when it's humid outside."
QUICK FIX: Dry, porous hair tends to absorb moisture from the air, swelling strands and making them frizz, explains Philip. If you have coarse, curly hair, he recommends working in a humidity-repelling leave-in conditioner (Sebastian Moisture Base, Redken Climatress Moist-Ends, Aveda Styling Curessence) while your hair is still wet. If you have fine locks, opt for a lightweight balm (like Clairol's Frizz control Frizz Taming Balm).

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Don't fight the texture of your hair on a particularly humid day. "If your hair has some natural curl or wave to it, it's best to work with it, not against it," says Philip.

13 "My hair looks dull. How can I get more shine?"
QUICK FIX: Lay off the hairspray, says Philip, since spray buildup is dulling. Instead, he recommends choosing silicone-based styling products (like Sebastian Laminates Get A Grip) to get texture, hold and shine all in one. Rinsing hair with cold water after shampooing closes the hair's cuticle (aka the outer layer) so it reflects light better.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Try sudsing up weekly with a clarifying cleanser (ThermaSilk Clarifying Shampoo, Neutrogena Daily Care Shampoo, Vidal Sassoon Clarifying Shampoo) to remove product buildup. Limit heat styling and condition your hair regularly. For shine plus brightness, try an extra-conditioning semipermanent color gloss. Do it yourself at home (with Clairol's Natural Instincts or L'Oreal's Castings Spa Colour) or get it done in a salon.

14 "I have tons of split ends."
QUICK FIX: Allen masks split ends by working a dab of deep conditioning (like Aveda Deep Conditioner) into damp hair before styling. You can also apply a split-end treatment (like Infusium 23 Split End Repair) to damp hair to fuse forked locks. If your split ends do an antennaelike thing once your hair is dry, work in an anti-humectant pomade (like Aveda Anti-Humectant Pomade) to control them and seal in moisture.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Ease up on the blow-drying--it makes hair more prone to splitting. If you have to use a dryer, go for a low heat setting and direct the flow of air downward. Prevent split ends before they start by getting monthly trims.

15 "How can I give my limp hair a volume boost."
QUICK FIX: Laurent swears by volumizing spray (try Aussie Real Volume Spray or L'Oreal BodyVive Add-In Body Spray. Use the product on damp or dry roots, then flip your head over and blow-dry. When your hair is nearly dry, smooth the top layer with a round brush. To create extra volume, wrap sections of dry hair around large Velcro rollers and mist with an aerosol hairspray. Remove the rollers when the spray dries.

LONG-TERM PRESCRIPTION: Try a volumizing shampoo and a lightweight, body-building conditioner (like Vidal Sassoon Texturizing Formula Shampoo for Fine Hair). Apply conditioner only on the ends. Dyes can also add volume: When you go darker, the pigment coats the hair shaft, making each strand thicker, while going lighter removes color from the hair shaft, causing the cuticle to swell and creating volume.

By: Laing, Jennifer, Palma, Anna, Seventeen

Crib these clever tips and you'll be the only chick he's checking out

• When you're out with your man, it's understandably annoying to catch him eyeing other girls. Look, it's no excuse, but the truth is that ogling is just part of our hardwiring, so ingrained in our DNA, we often don't even realize we're doing it. To make matters worse, we're also easily distracted. Still, there are ways to curb his wandering-eye habit. Some suggestions…

Don't Drone
We know you want to tell us every last detail about your day all at once. But your one-sided deluge will have him looking for something, anything else to occupy his mind, The solution: Engage him in conversation on his favorite subjects — sports, travel, and him. "I was on a blind date at this bar that was packed with beautiful people," recalls Aaron[*], 30. "Normally, I'd have been checking out the scene, but my date was asking me all these thoughtful questions about my life and job, and the surrounding crowd faded."

Tease Him
Honestly, men are simple creatures — the mere suggestion of s-e-x is enough to suck him in. "I've been in a relationship for a while, so sometimes I check out women and think about what they'd be like in bed," says John, 21. "If my girlfriend wants me to daydream about sex with her, she has to toy with me a little bit. "So when you're out with your man, stroke your collarbone or let your fingertips wander up his thigh under the table. Bet the fantasy woman he spots on the street wouldn't do that!

Never Let Him See You Sweat
Sure, we may pretend to be all annoyed when you get jealous, but the truth is, it gives us an ego boost. That's part of the reason we scope out women right in front of you. If you want to keep his tongue-wagging in check, keep your cool — otherwise, you'll just be encouraging him. As Eric, 28, recalls, "My ex would catch me looking at a girl and start asking if I thought she was cuter or had a better body. It made me feel good that she got so freaked, so I'd do it even more, just to get a reaction."

Do Your Own Ogling
If all else fails, give him a taste of his own medicine. When you start eyeing the bartender right in front of him, he'll feel threatened (in a good way). "I've always had a serious wandering-eye problem," says Sean, 27. "My girlfriend noticed my bad habit early on and apparently started making eyes at other men to show me what it felt like. I hated it, so I'd kiss her all of a sudden or act like a jackass — anything to get her attention."

*Names have been changed.

guys speak out

"What Gets My Attention"

"When you lock eyes with a beautiful girl for the first time and she gives you that sexy, inviting come-hither look, it's unparalleled."

— Ben Draper

"If I see a really tall girl with gorgeous legs that are like up to there — especially if she's wearing high heels — that always turns my head."

— Jay Santucci

I'm so easily distracted by a girl with a curvy lower half. A sexy, feminine figure like that is guaranteed to catch my eye every time."

— Rotimi Paul

"What gets my attention most is what a girl's wearing. Come on, if she's in a skimpy outfit that shows off her body, she wants me to look."

— Nick Cantone

"Nothing draws me to a woman like a great smile. When a girl flashes a hot, seductive grin in my direction, I can't help but be totally hypnotized."

— Brandon Carter

By: Way, Simon, Salembier, Lily, Cosmopolitan, Oct2006

What His Affection Style Says

In addition to giving you the warm fuzzies, the way a man shows you the love can provide a sneak peek into his relationship MO and his passion preferences.

He Strokes Your Head or Back
For this touchy-feely guy, sex and love go hand in hand. That's why he uses a sensuous stroke to let you know he cares. "He will take his time in bed with you and constantly suggest new ways to mix up your routine," says Beverly Hills, California, communication expert Lillian Glass, PhD.

His zest for novelty extends to his daily life as well — he's always looking for opportunities to excite his senses. So keep him on his toes by taking him on a surprise weekend trip or introducing him to an exotic cuisine.

He Kisses Your Forehead
A true romantic, this sensitive dude will not only whip up a dinner for you (served by candlelight), hell ask about your day while he's at it. "He's sweet, loving, and perceptive, which makes him an ideal boyfriend in many ways," Glass points out. "He may be passive though, especially when it comes to sex." Although you'll probably be calling all the shots, he takes direction well. Plus, he aims to please.

He Gives You Big Hugs
This cuddler is a take-charge man who's focused on pampering and protecting. "He'll look after you in whatever way he can, whether it's stepping in to handle a stressful situation or just being a shoulder to cry on," says Glass.

Equally as dominating between the sheets, he may not let you pick the position. Still, your pleasure is his number one priority, since that's taking care of you in a different — but important — way.

He Holds Your Hand
"Taking your hand is an easy, simple way to stay bonded to you and show the world that you're his," explains Glass. That indicates that he's the type who craves a close partnership — he wants to settle down with one woman and do the marriage and family thing."

In the act, he requires more of a soulful carnal connection, so expect him to set the mood, stare into your eyes…and stick around to cuddle afterward.

Source: Cosmopolitan, Oct2006

Sex Tricks He's Never Been Treated To

By: Julia Gaynor, Cosmopolitan, Oct2004

Looking for new ways to thrill his body? Well, you've come to the right place. After you've served up these sexy moves, he might forget his own name, but he'll never forget yours.

Just when you thought you'd picked up every sexy lick, position, and crazy contortion from the pages of Cosmo, we're revealing the secret unheard-of techniques that make even the most tried-and-true trick beyond amazing.

"Adding to your sexual repertoire isn't just a great way to impress your man with new skills," says Laura Herman, PhD, director of the Herman Center in Chicago. "Pushing the envelope does wonders for your sexual confidence. And all that exploring is hound to increase your intimacy and satisfaction." So read on for our erotic upgrades.

YOU'VE HEARD OF The Reverse Cowgirl ADVANCED PLEASURE POINTER The Cowgirl Toe Tug
"When you're in the reverse cowgirl position (woman on top, facing his feet), squeeze his big toe firmly and pull it away from his body as he's about to climax to extend his orgasm," says Kate Taylor, author of The Good Orgasm Guide.

Why this move doubles his pleasure: "The same neural pathway that innervates the big toe also innervates the penis, so by pulling on his toe, you're indirectly strengthening the sensations he's feeling in his penis," says Jennifer R. Berman, MD, director of the Female Sexual Medicine Center at University of California at Los Angeles.

YOU'VE HEARD OF Humming ADVANCED PLEASURE POINTER Hummer Heat Wave
Savvy girls know that adding a little humming to their oral moves can wow him, but Olivia St. Claire, author of 302 Advanced Techniques for Driving a Man Wild in Bed, shares a little-known trick: "Massage a dime-size drop of water-based lube on his testicles, lightly wrap them in a square of plastic wrap, then put your lips over the area and hum."

The plastic wrap, coupled with your lip movements, will spike his sexual thermostat and can strengthen his erection. "Increased heat causes blood vessels to dilate, creating more blood flow to the penis," says Laurence Levine, MD, professor of urology at Rush University Medical Center, in Chicago. Sure, he might raise an eyebrow when you bring a roll of plastic wrap to bed, but his skepticism will soon morph into satisfaction.

YOU'VE HEARD OF Pumping His Perineum ADVANCED PLEASURE POINTER Stretch Your P-Spot for Even More Pleasure
Chances are, you've heard about pleasuring a guy' perineum (that small patch of skin between his testicles and anus). But you also have a sensitive P-spot that's loaded with nerve endings, and when it's stretched just the right way, it helps to elongate your clitoris, turning it into a massive climax center.

"A lot of women are turned on by clitoral stimulation, but they may not know that the clitoris is about two centimeters longer than the little bulb we see on the outside. It extends inside," says Lisa Masterson, an ob-gyn in Los Angeles. "By stretching the perineum (the small patch of skin between the vagina and the amis), the skin of the clitoral hood retracts all the way back, giving it more access to friction." This increases sensitivity in the entire area.

Try stretching your P-spot while you're both in a sitting-up position with your legs wrapped around each other. Keep your pelvises together, and arch your back, supporting your weight with one hand behind you. This keeps your genitals grinding together while stretching those; tender inches below.

YOU'VE HEARD OF The Missionary Position ADVANCED PLEASURE POINTER The Straight-Up Squeeze
No doubt missionary is a carnal classic, but with this sexy modification, his penis will feel like a pleasure pole rubbing up and down directly on your clitoris.

With him on top, very slowly and carefully squeeze your legs together while he's inside you so they are between his legs. "You'll get clitoral stimulation, and it's also great if your man is well-endowed because he can't go all the way inside and potentially hit your cervix, which can be painful," says Barbara Keesling, PhD, author of The Good Girl's Guide to Bad Girl Sex.

Hot hint: With straight legs, try pressing the bottom of one foot against the top of the other for an even tighter fit.

YOU'VE HEARD OF Using Your PC Muscles ADVANCED PLEASURE POINTER The Breathtaking Back-Draft
Pubococcygeus (PC) muscles are essential for sensational sex, but add the right breath control to those sexy squeezes and you can literally breathe him in and out, giving him an experience he's never felt before and intensifying your climax.

As he's entering you, contract your PC muscles while inhaling deeply. "Breathing in increases blood flow to the genital area, helping with the engorgement necessary for orgasm," explains Laura Herman. It also pumps up puny PCs. "Just like when you lift weights, breathing in brings oxygen to the muscles, helping them work better," she says.

To keep a noisy (and embarrassing) queef from escaping due to muscle contractions, stay away from positions that let too much air into the vagina, such as doggie-style, and stick to pelvis-to-pelvis positions like sitting stances or missionary moves, suggests Dr. Masterson.

YOU'VE HEARD OF Doggie-Style ADVANCED PLEASURE POINTER One-Handed Diagonal Downward Dog
Doggie-style is the second favorite position for guys, according to Cosmo's August 2004 male sex survey, and no wonder: It's primal and perfect for a quickie. But a tiny tweak turns this move into rear-entry ecstasy for both of you.

Start in a traditional all-fours position, but lean your body forward so your head rests on one arm, propped up on a pillow. That way, your other arm is free to reach behind and circle the base of his penis with your forefinger and thumb as he enters you.

This minor modification has several orgasm-boosting bonuses: "His penis is going against the grain, entering against the natural shape and curve of your vagina, which gives him more friction," says Laura Berman. "And the pressure of his penis against the back wall of your vagina causes indirect anal stimulation that many women find pleasurable!."

With this downward slant, you'll also avoid any potential ouch factor that can come with doggie-style. "This position holds the cervix lower, making it much less likely that he'll bump it during sex," adds David Ferguson, MD, PhD, member of the advisory board of the Women's Sexual Health Foundation. Plus, your taut hand wrapped tightly around the base of his penis adds a little friction, which gives him more pleasure.

YOU'VE HEARD OF Battery-Powered Fun for One ADVANCED PLEASURE POINTER Sharing Synchronized Vibrations
You may have some kind of battery-operated friend that you reserve for frisky moments alone, but sharing your toy with your guy boosts the fun quotient for both of yon.

Most likely, your man has never felt the electrifying pulses of a pleasure toy, so handle his member with care. "Putting your vibrator directly on his penis might be a bit too intense for him," says Laura Berman. "Instead, try experimenting on his perineum area another spot rich with nerve endings but not quite as sensitive."

To begin, rub his shaft from head to base. When you're sure he's revved up, turn your vibrator on low and slide it just behind his testicles, pushing firmly into his perineum. If you think he can handle it, increase the speed of the vibrator as you increase the momentum of your hand sliding up and down his shaft.

Just be aware that this kind of pulsation may also be too powerful to put directly on his scrotum, says Dr. Jennifer Berman, so muffle the intensity by wrapping the vibrator with a handkerchief, sheet, or your undies to softer the vibrations. Or press it against your vulva while he's thrusting from behind so he'll feel the tremors through your body. Hint: For his sake, don't use a threatening phallus dildo; a small egg-shaped vibrator works best.

Most likely, your man has never felt the electrifying pulses of a pleasure toy, so handle his member with care.

A few simple steps yield a picture-perfect bird

Don't be intimidated by the largest of the roasting birds. These tips for handling, Stuffing and roasting a turkey will ease your mind whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice cook. Just follow the rules and keep your eye on the prize -- a golden, juicy bird your guests will rave about.

THAWING 101 If you're thawing a frozen bird in the refrigerator, allow five hours per pound (500 g). For instance, a 10-pound (5-kg) turkey needs approximately two days' thawing. Or save time by immersing the frozen turkey in cold water, allowing about an hour per pound. Change the water every hour to ensure it does not become warm. Thawing in warm water or on the counter at room temperature creates a cozy habitat for unwanted bacterial growth.

FRESH VERSUS FROZEN The choice is up to you. A fresh turkey is easy to handle. Left in the original wrapper, it can be safely refrigerated for one to two days before roasting. During the holidays, it's a good idea to order one in advance just in case stores are sold out, leaving you stuck at the last minute. If you have extra refrigerator and freezer space, pick up a frozen bird at your convenience. You can also save time by purchasing a frozen stuffed turkey, which you do not thaw. Just remove the packaging, place the frozen bird in a roasting pan and follow the directions on the wrapper.

BE CREATIVE When it comes to preparation, there are many interesting twists on turkey rubs, stuffings and gravies. Check out Country Thanksgiving for our Barbecued Turkey (page 248) or go to http://www.chatelaine.com/ for some test kitchen favourites, such as our super-moist Better Brined Turkey.

STUFF IT If you choose to stuff your turkey, be careful not to overpack it. Keep the stuffing loose, leaving room for it to expand during cooking. Count on ½ to ¾ cup (125 mL to 175 mL) stuffing per pound of turkey. Make sure to stuff your bird just before cooking to ensure there is no unsafe bacterial growth. Stuffing on the side is a great option for vegetarian guests or families who enjoy eating a lot of it. Place stuffing or extra stuffing in. a baking dish, then cover with foil and bake.

GET ROASTING Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before you begin to stuff or cook. Roasting times are based on a completely thawed or fresh turkey. Most eight-to 10-pound (4- to 5-kg) stuffed turkeys need about 20 minutes per pound (500 g). Place turkey, breast side down, in a roasting pan. Then roast in the centre of a preheated 325F (160C) oven for two hours. Turn turkey breast side up for the last two to four hours of roasting. For a video on preparation, go to http://www.chatelaine.com/turkeyvideo/.

TO BASTE OR NOT TO BASTE? To prevent the skin from drying out, brush or rub it with oil or butter before you place the bird in the oven. Basting juices penetrate approximately one inch (2.5 cm) deep into the turkey meat, but opening the oven door often reduces the temperature and extends the roasting time. If you like crispy skin, don't baste for the last hour.

ARE WE THERE YET? Roast a stuffed turkey until the leg moves loosely in its joint, juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the inner thigh--just above but not touching the thigh bone--reads 180F (80C). Also ensure your stuffing has reached a safe internal temperature of 160F (70C).

GET CARVING Let the bird sit for 15 to 20 minutes before carving -- this allows the juices to redistribute themselves throughout the meat. Despite the hungry hordes, it's worth the wait. To carve, place the turkey on a cutting board, breast side up. Slice off the leg and thigh portions and place on the board. Hold the wing down and slice along the bottom of the breast. Starting halfway down the breast, cut off slices. Then cut across the leg, making thin slices. Place all pieces on a serving platter.

DEAL WITH LEFTOVERS Remove all the stuffing from the bird within the hour. Wrap up any leftovers within two hours of roasting. Store turkey and stuffing separately in a container, foil, plastic wrap or bag. Refrigerate up to two days or freeze up to two months.

Don't forget to be gracious when you're showered with compliments, then relax and digest your fabulous dinner while somebody else does the dishes.

WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS
SHERRIED GRAVY
Place turkey neck, heart, liver and gizzard in a saucepan with 1 chopped onion, 1 bay leaf and 3 cups (750mL) water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until tender, about 30 rain. Strain liquid and save. Remove turkey from roasting pan and skim fat from pan juices. Place pan over 2 burners on medium heat. Bring juices to a boil. Using a small sieve and whisking constantly, gradually sprinkle in ¼ cup (50 mL) all-purpose flour. Whisk until thickened. Whisk in 2 cups (500 mL) strained liquid, chicken broth or bouillon. Stir until thickened, 5 rain. Stir in sherry and salt to taste. Makes 2 1/2 cups (625 mL)

CRANBERRY SAUCE À L'ORANGE
Preheat oven to 325F (160C) if baking with a turkey or 350F (180C) if baking sauce on its own. Place 3 cups (750 mL) fresh cranberries in an 8-in. (2-k) baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups (375 mL) granulated sugar. Finely grate in peel of I orange, then squeeze out ½ cup (125 mL) juice from orange and stir into cranberry mixture. Bake, uncovered, until cranberries start to break down and thicken into a sauce-like consistency, 1 hour. Stir occasionally. Makes 2 cups (500 mL)

By: Walsh, Victoria, Chatelaine, Oct2006

Advice for the House Rich

The boom in home prices is over. No more bubble. People with expensive homes on the market, like my friends Larry and Linda, don't need to be told this. Their home in a pricey Maryland suburb of Washington, D.C. (itself a pricey market), is listed at several multiples of $1 million and is sitting there like a wallflower at the dance--four months, little traffic and no offer. Linda says they'd like to get a lowball offer and then negotiate. I suggest they take $1 million off the price, then hope for that lowball.

Ideas for sellers. How bad is bad? The latest numbers from the National Association of Realtors should concern all homeowners contemplating a safe. Nationally, the number of sales of existing homes fell 7% during the second quarter of 2006 compared with a year earlier. But in some populous, high-priced states, the bottom opened up: Arizona and Florida, down 27%; California, 25%; and Virginia and Nevada, 24%. Only 20 states had increases.

Interesting enough, prices paid for existing single-family homes were still going up during the second quarter compared with 2005--even in those states where the number of transactions plummeted. For example, the median sale price rose 17% in metropolitan Orlando and 12% in Phoenix. But don't count on that lasting, It's as if buyers have gone on strike, but sellers don't know it yet. Think of Wile E. Coyote churning his legs after running off a cliff.

Larry and Linda could always emulate Alan Weinkrantz, the Texan who created a blog to stir up interest in his unsold home (see "My Story," on page 110). Alan admits his blog was only indirectly responsible for his home's eventual sale. So I asked Patricia Esswein, who writes on housing for us, if she had some more-practical advice for home sellers.

First, says Pat, consider riding it out. If you don't have to sell, wait. But if you have to sell (perhaps, like Larry and Linda, you've already bought a new place), try not to panic. Be patient. The fact that homes (expensive ones in particular) stay on the market longer doesn't mean that they'll never sell. As of mid 2006, existing single-family homes stayed on the market almost seven months, compared with four and a half months a year ago.

Don't be cheap, Pat says. We're all for FSBOs, but For Sale By Owner signs work best when buyers aren't on strike. You need someone out there beating the bushes for you, and that's what a good real estate agent does. In times like these, a 5% commission can pay for itself.

Price it right. Larry and Linda, are you listening? Says Par: "Houses are like bread--the longer they sit around unsold, the moldier they look. For the past year, agents have repeatedly told me about sellers who refuse to live in the present and face reality. They get hung up on what Joe's house down the street sold for last year and think, I should get that, too." Well, those days are over for a while.

Ask your agent whether offering buyer incentives would be smart. Such as? Offer to pay all the closing costs. Throw in a year's worth of condo fees--or if you live on a golf course, a year's worth of country-club dues. Some sellers offer new cars to buyers.

A big thump? David Lereah, chief economist for the Realtors, says home prices are headed for a soft landing. I hope so. But in the housing market, like the stock market, matters get carried to extremes. Plus, for every reader of this column who hopes for a soft landing for home prices, there's another who's in the market to buy and is rooting for a big thump.

By: Frailey, Fred W., Kiplinger's Personal Finance, Oct2006

Security Precautions Worth Remembering

“Effective security precautions require a conscious awareness of one’s environment, as well as the need to exercise prudence, judgment, and common sense,” stresses Michael McCann, former Chief of Security for the United Nations. “This is especially true where the traveler must acclimate to different cultures, customs, and laws. Personal security cannot be delegated to others; it is a responsibility of each one of us.

“People traveling abroad on business should be aware that they may be targeted by terrorists, criminals, intelligence agencies, or even just a business competitor if they’re in possession or knowledgeable about proprietary information.”

According to McCann, the top 10 mistakes traveling business executives make are:

Broadcasting the “bling-bling.” Americans appear committed to showing off their affluence with flashy jewelry and actions. When traveling, it is best to maintain a low key, nonattention -getting demeanor so that you blend into the crowd. Leave the expensive gold watch at home along with the designer luggage.


Being distracted by technology. Chatting on a cell phone while traveling through unfamiliar international terrain means that person is not focused on the here and now. An individual cannot be alert to his or her surroundings and assess potential danger when answering text messages, working on a notebook computer, or talking on the phone.

Wallet overload. Many executives fail to clean out their wallet before journeying overseas. When traveling, take only a few credit cards and leave all nonessentials at home, including gym membership identification and personal photos. Carry a minimum of cash and use credit cards and traveler’s checks along with a money belt that can be worn under your clothes.

Enraptured by the lure of the penthouse suite. Corporate executives often like the expensive suites on the top floors. However, hotels in other countries do not meet the same safety standards as in the U.S. and the highest floor can be the most dangerous place to be.

Broadcasting country of origin. Leave the Yankee cap at home, and do not wear overtly American brand labels on your clothing. Corporate logos are to be avoided and do not put your name and address on the exposed portion of your luggage tag. Place a copy of this information inside your luggage and be sure it includes your office address and phone number rather than your home information. Instead of renting a big American car, use a vehicle that is local to the country you are visiting.

Indulging in overpacking. Travel with carry-on luggage only. Waiting around in a foreign airport for lug gage signals you as a mark and, if it does not arrive, you are the last person standing at the airport. Carry a laptop bag that does not look like a traditional computer bag.

Failing to remain continually vigilant. Before traveling, find out about the local surroundings, customs, and conditions. Learn what crime problems exist–e.g., pickpocketing or terrorism–where you are visiting. Know the car model and name of your chauffeur before you get into the vehicle. Provide a different name than your own–such as your mother’s or wife’s maiden name –to put up on the sign at the airport exit so that you cannot be followed or tracked. Travel in pairs, and only take direct flights.

Failure to duplicate. Carry an extra photocopy of your passport in your luggage. Leave a copy of your official ID information in your home and office, including driver’s license and credit cards.

Not being medically prepared. Healthy traveling necessitates carrying an ample supply of prescription medicines along with the original container should a refill be necessary. Learn what medical coverage you have in the country you are visiting and whether it applies to emergency care.

Failure to communicate. Before departing, set up the time you will call your home and office each day. Update your emergency contact list and leave a copy of your schedule at home and the office.

“Be sure to carry a business card from the hotel with you at all times.” McCann concludes. “Many executives travel so much and suffer fatigue; they simply forget where they checked into. If you are traveling in a country and do not know the language, you can show the card to an authorized cab driver or to the police. Keep contact information for vital organizations handy, including the American Consulate and the local police and fire department.”

Source: USA Today Magazine, Aug2006

Spark a Career in Welding

Want to work with high-tech robots or dive deep into the sea? Consider welding--the outlook for this field is hot, hot, hot!

Molly Lawrence was apprehensive the first time she cut steel. The instructor put a cutting rod into her nervous hands and pointed. "I struck it with the steel to ignite the tip," says the 24-year-old. As the electrical current went through the rod, it created a spark, called an arc. Molten steel--10,000 degrees hot--began to fly. "It's so hot that it splits water molecules when underwater. It was an amazing experience," Lawrence reports.

Underwater welding was a lot different from anything she'd ever done. Last year, Lawrence was studying wildlife ecology. But after visiting the College of Engineering and Oceaneering in Wilmington, Calif., she transferred. "This program is exciting, and there's lots to do out there."

Welding Is All Around Us
We live in a welded world. Anything that's not bolted together is probably welded. Cars, planes, bikes, buildings, computers, medical devices, and even amusement park rides require welders to cut, assemble, and join all kinds of materials, including nonmetallic ones. Plastics and composites, for example, can be welded using high-frequency vibration. The method is called ultrasonic welding, and it's one of many high-tech subspecialties available in a field that needs workers badly.

A shortage of 250,000 welding professionals is expected by 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Not enough new people are entering the field to replace retiring welders. Trained welders entering the field are likely to find good jobs.

Welding can be learned in high school industrial arts programs, trade schools, and community colleges. The programs run from a couple of weeks to two-year associate degree programs. To prepare for the field, students should take drafting and as much math as possible, says Tony Marsden, an instructor at Simi Valley Career Institute in California. "Geometry--we use it all the time," he says, adding that trigonometry is also essential.

Once in the field, new hires start as apprentices. They earn anywhere from minimum wage up to $12 an hour. Journeymen can earn $14 to $20 per hour. Managers or inspectors who take the engineering route can make $25 an hour or more. But wages really start to rise once you hit deep water.

Wet Welders
Some adventurous welders--like Molly Lawrence--work underwater. They inspect and repair bridges, tunnels, and pipelines or build and repair oil platforms. Although the skills used in wet welding are similar to those for dry welding, the ocean environment makes this a very different job. Wet welders use touch to assess progress. They must also relearn simple skills. "Swinging a hammer underwater takes a lot more strength and coordination," says Lamar Howard, an instructor at the College of Engineering and Oceaneering. One challenge is learning to work in diving suits with hundreds of feet of oxygen line trailing behind.

Most underwater welders train at accredited commercial diving schools. New graduates can then start as apprentices, or tenders. New hires can start at $14 to $16 an hour and can move up to $40,000 to $100,000 a year when they become full-time divers.

Experienced divers can go on to become saturation (SAT) divers and make more than $120,000 a year. SAT divers are the underwater welding elite. Their bodies become saturated with oxygen from working at low depths. SAT divers live in pressurized living areas underwater and work out of diving bells. They stay under pressure for long periods so they don't have to decompress whenever they come to the surface. As many as eight divers can live together in a space the size of a typical bedroom for weeks at a time.

Welding beneath the waves is a small and tough field, but as Howard says, "If you can do it, every day is an adventure."

High-Tech and Clean
"People think welding takes place in a grungy, dark environment," says Ken Smith, manager of training projects at Lorain County Community College in Ohio. "That environment is changing." High technology is creating new jobs and cleaner environments. Automated--or robotic--welding is replacing some manual welders but creating jobs for welding technicians and welding engineers. In an automated environment, "individuals aren't inhaling fumes like a manual welder," says Smith.

Specialists are needed to program the computers that tell robots how to do their jobs and to monitor the robots' work. "A welding technician understands what a good weld looks like and can apply it to the environment with the robot," says Smith. Human welders will always be needed. The high cost of robots limits them to heavy-production work, such as automotive assembly lines. So if you're good with your hands, and you have a sharp eye and a knack for technology, consider this white-hot field.

The Welding Pros
WELDERS cut, fit, assemble, and repair structural forms using hand tools, torches, or arc welding equipment. (high school diploma with on-the-job training or vocational/technical training)

WELDING TECHNICIANS help develop and apply new welding equipment, techniques, and processes. They test and troubleshoot new technologies. (associate degree)

WELDING ENGINEERS research and develop new welding techniques, procedures, and applications of welding technology. (bachelor's degree)

What to Weld?
Aim your torch toward materials in these five industries, which offer great opportunities for skilled welders.

* automotive

* heavy equipment

* aerospace

* electronics, medical instruments, precision instruments

* energy and chemical, including deep-water technology


HOT LINKS
http://www.weldingedu.com/ http://www.takeupthetorch.org/ Find a welding school: www.aws.org/w/sense

By: Nishi, Dennis, Career World, Sep2006

How to exit a job without feeling awkward or burning your bridges

I cringe when I remember how I quit my first job.

The summer between 10th and 11th grades, I was a desk clerk at a swim and tennis club. The work was a breeze: answering the phones, greeting and checking in guests, and taking reservations for the tennis courts. Outside of these obligations, I was free to kick back, enjoy the sunshine, listen to whatever music struck my fancy, and eat frozen Charleston Chews from the snack bar. I could even take a dip in the pool in my off-hours. It was a pretty sweet job.

But as the summer wore on, a problem arose. My work area suffered a plague of obnoxious pre teen kids. Despite the fact that they had a pool, tennis courts, a snack bar, and swarms of other kids to keep them entertained, their preferred activity was hanging around my desk and bugging me. They'd nag me with ridiculous questions, deface my court reservation sheet, and shoot spitballs at me from the straws of their icy cups of Coke. In short: They drove me crazy.

A couple of weeks before the season ended, and with it my job, I decided I just couldn't take it a minute longer. Looking back, the scenario doesn't seem like such a big deal, but the person I was at the time was at the end of her rope. I had to quit.

And then I did a very bad thing.

I wrote a long, colorful, dramatic treatise titled "I QUIT!" In it, I enumerated all the reasons I was outtathere. Mostly, it was an inventory of the club kids' offenses, but to boost my argument, I also tossed in some lame external factors, like "I need to get ready for the start of school." Satisfied that I'd covered all my bases, I hung the unedited outpourings of my brain on the wall of the club office. Let's repeat that: on the wall of the club office.

Big mistake. Not only was I completely unprofessional, I also opened myself up for serious mocking by my coworkers. They picked up their own pens and ripped apart all my silly reasons for leaving my job. "I need to get ready for the start of school" was met with "It takes 20 minutes to buy a notebook and pens!" Um … good point.

My awkward exit left the club shorthanded. My fellow desk staffers--also my friends--had to pick up my slack and take on double shifts after I flounced off the job. But they assured me they were happy for the extra spending money, so what really sticks in my craw about the whole situation is how poorly I handled the actual quitting part.

Leaving Bridges Unburned
Why does it matter how you quit a job? After all, the result is the same--you're gone. History. Finito.

Or are you?

A poor exit can come back to haunt you in ways that you don't quite consider in the heat of the quitting moment. Consider the consequences.

* Getting references. Whether for another job or for college, you'll need professional references for the rest of your working life. Leaving a positive and professional final impression helps lock in a good recommendation for your next job (and the one after that, and …).

* Networking. If you have a positive relationship with your boss from beginning to end, it could pay off in the future as you build your career. "You don't know who that supervisor or manager knows," says Barbara Dwyer, CEO of the Job Journey, an organization that helps teens prepare for the working world. Even if your after-school, part-time job at the doughnut shop isn't related to your long-term career plans, the manager might just have a brother or friend in a field you do want to explore in the future. That manager becomes a key figure in your network.

* Going back. Back? To that job you quit? Crazy talk, right? Well, not necessarily. People change. Situations change. "I've had many crew members that end up coming back because they think there's something better out there, but they actually find that working at Cold Stone was a good job," says Tiffany Blakely, a manager for Cold Stone Creamery in Scottsdale, Ariz., who has worked with nearly 100 teens. Leaving well gives a returning employee an edge in securing a position.

* Having good karma. It's early in your working life, and you can't predict whom you will work with in the future. It might be the person you stomped out on mid-shift. "This is a very small world," notes Dwyer. "The [person] you snub today may be your boss tomorrow."

Don't. Just … Don't.
Here's what not to do when quitting a job:

* Don't leave without notice. Two weeks' notice is standard. Two seconds' notice is inexcusable. "One of the worst ways to leave is not showing up for a busy shift when [you're] scheduled," says Blakely.

* Don't make a scene. You might be tempted to tell a manager where to stick his spatula, but take a deep breath, count to 10, and stay cool--at least until you're outside of hearing range? People tend to remember a dramatic exit--and not necessarily in a fond way.

* Don't take the passive route. "I've had crew members just slack off in hopes of getting fired," says Blakely. "That can be really frustrating to an employer."

* Don't leave the dirty work to someone else. Blakely says she's fielded phone calls from parents telling her that their son or daughter is no longer working for her.

A Better Exit Strategy
By now you're an expert on the awkward, bridge-burning exit. Here are more-professional, face-saving ways to move on.

* Be clear about your commitment when you take the job. If you know that you can stay on board for only a summer or until basketball season begins, be clear about that when you apply for the job. "It's an understanding up front, and it takes the tension out of it," says Blakely. If you're good, a manager may hire you anyway, even knowing that your time on the job is finite. Dwyer once hired a teen worker who was clear that he could work for only three months. "I loved his attitude," Dwyer reports. The worker excelled on the job. "Guess what? [Later,] he got his job back."

* Talk to the boss. If there is something you don't like about the job, your manager may be able to help out. "It's really important for [workers] to communicate and be up front with their manager," says Blakely. "I've been able to accommodate people to keep them. If it's somebody who's valuable, I definitely will do whatever it takes."

Further, if you don't talk to your boss, he or she may assume that the problem lies with you--that you couldn't handle the job or that you didn't take it seriously.

What about my own former boss, whose swim club I left in a flurry of angst? "We thought you were nuts," declares Bruce Cutter, still the manager of the club. He added that if I'd talked to him and explained the problems I was having with the club kids, he might have been able to fix the situation. "I probably thought you couldn't handle the job," he says now. However, if I'd stuck it out, he probably would have thought I'd done a fine job.

Given the way I left, though, what would've happened if I'd used him as a reference for another job? (Which, as it turned out, I did not.) "I'd have given you a lukewarm reference," Cutter admits.

* Put it in writing. In a brief letter, thank your manager for the opportunity, and let him or her know the date of your last day at work. Give it to the boss privately. Keep in mind that a letter is no substitute for talking to your manager.

* Give ample notice. Two weeks' notice is standard. Three weeks' notice is generous and is likely to make your manager happy.

* Replace yourself. If you want out, perhaps you have an able and willing friend who wants in. Recommending your bud can be a big help to a busy manager, and Blakely says it's one of the best things you can do when leaving a job. "I think that shows a lot of professionalism," she says.

What If It's a Really Bad Situation?
The hours are unbearable. Your coworkers are weird. Your boss is a jerk, and you don't ever want to use her as a reference. The job leaves you with no energy for your schoolwork. You want out--now. What then?

Check with an objective third party to make sure you're not misreading the situation. Then, if the job just isn't salvageable, Dwyer says, "politely tell the manager what steps [you've] taken to try to rectify the problem and that it would be in the best interest for the business … to separate immediately."

Quitting a job with grace can help you both immediately and in the future, as you take on new jobs and your network begins to grow. Leaving a positive impression with a manager is an investment in that network. Leaving a bad impression may result in a lost opportunity for you.

By: Flounders, Ann, Career World, Sep2006

Country Lore

Readers' tips to live by

Inexpensive Bicycle Baskets
Last spring, we moved to an area that is only one and a half miles from a grocery store and slightly farther from the public library and other shopping areas, allowing me to do some errands by bicycle. The nylon bicycle panniers I picked up from a sale bin had worn out. I wanted practical, lightweight and low-cost carriers on my bike that also wouldn't bruise my shins. The usual options -- baskets, panniers, a box strapped to the back rack -- all failed on at least one count.

I decided to try small, rectangular plastic wastebaskets. I drilled quarter-inch holes under the rim along one side and a few more in the bottom for drainage in wet weather. My husband, an old sailor, knotted the bicycle baskets to the rear rack with nylon rope. The baskets rattle a bit when I hit a bump in the road, but that's no problem, and they can tilt up to be emptied of leaves and other debris. I use 16-quart bins, which seem to be just the right size. With these baskets, I can carry a dozen library books or a couple days' worth of groceries.

CINDY STAVENHAGEN

Show Your Stuff at the County Fair

I get excited every summer when the huge white canvas tents go up, signaling the opening of the county fair. My mouth waters with the anticipation of spicy sausages sizzling on the grill and thick, freshly made waffle cones for delicious ice cream.

But county fairs are more than a place to grab a bite to eat. Fairs are one of the few places where you can stroll the midway, play games and enjoy rides, while viewing livestock, country crafts and farm equipment. For newcomers to rural living, fairs are a great place to learn and make contacts.

These fairs started as agricultural gatherings where farmers showcased the results of their hard work. In return, counties offered entrants the chance to compete for prizes that raised the value of their livestock at auction. County fairs still ate partially subsidized by the state and county, as long as the county cooperative extension office oversees the competition. But you don't need to belong to a 4-H or extension program to vie for satin souvenirs at your county's fair.

Today's county fairs offer a variety of competitions under "open class." This category was designed for people who want to display their talents but don't belong to an extension organization. Open class competitions vary widely by county. Categories range from standard crops, floral and livestock, to specialized crafts such as photography, winemaking, needlework, ceramics, quilting, woodworking and more. Each county fair publishes a guide called a "premium book." This lists all the entry requirements for each category, along with any entry fees and rewards. Some fairs award cash prizes along with ribbons to each group of winners.

To learn about the fairs that are happening in your area, a good place to start is the Web site for the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (http://www.fairsandexpos.com/). Click on "Link to Our Members" to search for fairs by state or province.

CINDY KERSCHNE

Make a Free Portable Chicken Waterer

We have a small flock of chickens and designed a chicken waterer from a recycled 5-gallon plastic bucket.

Using a fine-toothed narrow-bladed handsaw, we cut a horizontal half-moon hole on each side of the bucket, starting one-third to halfway up from the bottom of the bucket. The hole is about 8 inches wide and 6 inches high. The water stays clean despite the chickens' tendency to scratch all around it, and it is easy to rinse and refill. We also saved and reused the lid; this was an added bonus.

ELIAS W. KEIM

Empty plastic kitty litter jugs also can work very well as containers for poultry water and feed.

-- MOTHE

Landscaping on a Budget

Purchasing trees, shrubs and flowers for a new yard can be expensive. Here are some ways to cut costs on landscaping:

• Purchase only half as many perennial flowers and berry plants as you want to have in your garden. In a year or two, the berries will spread, and the flowers will be large enough to divide and replant.

• Have a neighborhood or community plant-trading party.

• Keep your eyes peeled: Many people have one- to two-year-old tree saplings that have sprung up in their yards or gardens that they will be happy to let you transplant.

Using these strategies, our homestead has become a shady refuge.

JENNIE BUTLE

"Here We Go 'Round the Mulberry Bush"

Midsummer in the Ozarks is mulberry season. If you have never eaten mulberries fresh from the tree or made them into pies, jellies or wine, you certainly have missed a unique summer treat. Mulberries are free for the picking, but so delicate they are not sold in grocery stores, though you might find them at a farmers market.

Mulberries ripen over a two-week period, and trees usually produce an abundant crop. The berries are fragile and must be picked gently. Because the trees can grow quite tall, harvesting is difficult. Some folks lay an old sheet on the ground under the tree and give the tree limbs a good shake. However, the fruit bruises easily, and not all the mulberries land on the sheet. I prefer to pick the berries individually, from the bed of my husband's 1948 Ford pickup truck.

Mulberries are easy to freeze. Wash them carefully in a colander with cold water, drain well and place in plastic bags. Frozen berries can be processed into jelly or wine, or used for a winter pie with the taste of summer inside.

My favorite mulberry recipe is mulberry/gooseberry pie. The mulberry is very sweet, and the wild gooseberry is very tart, which equals the perfect combination for a wonderful summer fruit pie. I believe it is no accident that these two berries ripen at exactly the same time.

Mulberry/Gooseberry Pie

Filling:

2 1/4 cups mulberries
2 1/4 cups gooseberries
1 cup sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
4 tablespoons cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon sugar

Combine mulberries, gooseberries, 1 cup sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch and salt in a bowl and mix well. Pour the mixture into a pastry-lined 9-inch pie pan, dot with butter and cover with the top crust. Sprinkle the top with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Bake 40 minutes at 400 degrees.

JEANNETTE FISCHE

You can order mulberry trees from: Miller Nurseries 5060 West Lake Road Canandaigua, NY 14424 (800) 836-9630 http://www.millernurseries.com/

-- MOTHE

Raise Your Own Fishing Bait
My father and I love fishing, but we hate going to the store to buy worms. We decided to create a worm farm, using an old chest freezer. We drilled several small holes in the bottom for drainage and then filled the freezer with good topsoil. We also built a wire screen that covers the dirt to keep birds and other critters from eating our bait supply. The freezer lid is left partially open to let in rainwater. We bought a container of red worms and put them in the freezer along with vegetable scraps. By the next year, we had more worms than we needed.

Outdated vegetables from the grocery store (such as lettuce, carrots and potatoes) are a good source of worm food. You can also use potato and carrot peelings, as well as wilted lettuce from your own refrigerator.

CORY RAY

Web Searches Made Easy
Internet searching provides a powerful way to find all kinds of information, but sometimes the big search engines produce too many choices, and some Web sites have poor search functions.

Here's a tip that will help you avoid too many search hits and to find information inside a site that lacks a good search function: You can direct Google, one of the best search engines, to search just one particular Web site.

This Google option really works well -- simply go to Google, type your keywords into the search box, leave one space blank and then type "site:" followed by the URL of the Web site you want to search. Do not leave a space between "site:" and the URL. For instance, to find all references for "tomatoes" at http://www.seedsavers.org/, just type: tomatoes site: http://www.seedsavers.org/. Voila! Google will list all references to "tomatoes" on the Seed Savers Web site, but no hits from any other site.

Using this search function, you can find the specific information you're looking for at a particular Web site quickly and efficiently.

SCOTT HOLLIS
Lawrence, Kansas

By: Stavenhagen, Cindy, Kerschner, Cindy, Keim, Elias W., Butler, Jennie, Fischer, Jeannette, Ray, Cory, Hollis, Scott, Mother Earth News, Sep2006

Winter Tips

COLD WEATHER PRESENTS SERIOUS CHALLENGES TO ATV USERS HERE'S HOW TO TAME IT

If you're planning to use your ATV frequently this winter, here are some steps you can take to ensure trouble-free operation in cold weather.

MAINTENANCE 1. ADD A CARB HEATHER
Check your owner's manual for any cold-weather instructions specific to your machine. Some models, for example, will work better in the cold if a carburetor heater is installed.

2. SWITCH OILS
Service technicians I know in Wisconsin are recommending that customers switch to a synthetic oil such as Mobil 1 for cold-weather use.

Mineral-based motor oil begins to thicken at 20 degrees above zero, and will not flow at all when temperatures reach minus 30 degrees. The viscosity of synthetic oil, however, is unaffected by temperature which means it will provide instant lubrication when you start your engine, ever after your ATV has been sitting outside your ice shanty all night. This spares the engine a great deal of wear.

3. CHECK BATTERY
Cold weather diminishes the cranking power of your battery, so make sure it's in good condition and the terminal connections are clean and tight.

4. TOP OFF YOUR FUEL TANK
Ice-clogged fuel passages can be a big problem in extreme cold. Using your ATV in damp winter weather, or even moving it from a warm garage to the cold and back again, can cause moisture to condense in the fuel tank (particularly if it's steel). Keep the tank full, and regularly add an isopropyl alcohol additive to the fuel.

5. STOP SALT CORROSION
When you trailer your ATV in the winter, protect it from road-salt corrosion by spraying down the suspension and brakes with a silicone water dispersant. This is why they sell gallon jugs of WD-40.

If you can, rinse the ATV after each trip and let it dry in a warm garage.

6. WATCH OUT FOR ICE-UP
If you ride in the snow, watch for ice that can form on the radiator or fan shroud of liquid-cooled models. Ice will block air-flow through the radiator. As the engine gets hot, the automatic fan may turn off and if it's clogged with ice the fan or its motor could be destroyed. This is very common when an ATV is used for plowing and snow sifts over the blade.

7. MAKE A QUICK SIPHON
An outboard motor fuel line makes a great siphon for draining your fuel tank. Clip the fittings off each end of the line and use the primer bulb in the middle as a pump, either to start a siphon flow or even to move gas uphill when you have to. It's also easy to pack for field use.

8. CHECK THE LINKAGE
Always check the throttle linkage for ice, which can form when a wet ATV is parked in freezing weather.

SNOW TRAVEL 9. WATCH THE WEATHER
Conditions can deteriorate quickly in winter. Always check the local forecast before setting out and keep an eye on the weather. If conditions worsen, turn back or seek shelter.

10. SAY 'NO' TO SOFT SNOW
Riding on soft or unpacked snow can damage the underlying terrain. Stick to packed trails and always seek permission to access private property.

11. PACK A SURVIVAL KIT
In addition to a tool kit, carry a winter survival kit that includes a collapsible snow shovel, a tent, a sleeping bag, firestarters a back-packing stove and food.

12. STAGY LEGAL
ATVs are not always allowed on snowmobile trails. Check with local police to find out which trails are okay for ATV use.

13. DRESS RIGHT
Always make sure you're dressed appropriately for winter conditions. A snow-mobiling suit with warm gloves and a hat should be considered a minimum.

WINCHING OUT 14. INCREASE YOUR POWER
Use a snatch-block pulley to increase your ATV's winching power. Throw a coat or sleeping bag over the winch cable to prevent an accidental and potentially dangerous backlash.

15. DON'T SNAP THE STRAP
Because it's designed to stretch, a nylon recovery strap should never be used to extend the reach of a winch cable. If the recovery strap or cable breaks, the stored energy could cause the cable to rebound violently.

Heated hand grips and a windshield that's tall enough to protect your face are key to keeping warm on your ATV in winter.

CHAINS VS. STUDS
Most ATV tires deliver decent traction on packed snow, but if you're plowing or headed out on bare lake ice, you should consider the additional bite offered by fire chains or studs.

Tire chains deliver optimal traction on ice. You can also take them off when you don't need them. The disadvantage is that chains limit your speed to about 5 mph. The force of a broken chain whipping off a tire at 20 mph will throw it right through a plastic ATV fender and could cause severe injury to the rider. This is why we recommend that you secure the connector link with a piece of high-strength safety wire (available at most motorsports dealers).

Ice studs have hardened steel heads, often with sharp points on each comer. Use a nut driver to screw two or three studs into each tire lug. A bag of 1,000 studs costs about $50. The disadvantage, of course, is that you'll need to either remove the studs in spring or change tires.

STAY WARM THIS WINTER
Here are some quick tips to keep the cold from spoiling your fun while you ride in snow. WINDSHIELD: install a windshield that's tall enough to protect your face, torso and hands. Tile Moose Fairing Windshield ($180; http://mooseutilities.com/) combines a clear windscreen with a thicker, polyethylene lower section that incorporates hand-guards. It attaches easily using quick-release handlebar clamps that fit most ATV models. HOT HANDS: Make winter riding even more comfortable by installing a set of heated handgrips. Kits available from Polaris and Arctic Cat plug right into those models, and aftermarket kits from Kimpex and Moose will work on almost any ATV. Prices range from about $40 to $70. To avoid a dead battery, be sure to wire the grips to a circuit that's powered only when the engine is running.

A COOL KIT TO WINCH WITH
The Warn ATV Accessory Kit ($92, 800-910-1122: http://warn.com/) features winching gear that's scaled down for ATV duty so it's lighter and easier to pack than gear designed for truck winching.

Included is an 8-foot-long 1-inch-wide nylon tree-trunk protector anchor strap, a shackle rated to 4,000 pounds and a snatch block rated to 7,000 pounds. A black Cordura nylon bag holds it all, with room to spare for gloves and perhaps a length of chain.

Warn has also published The Basic Guide to Winching Techniques, available free from Warn customer service (800-543-9276).

By: Plueddeman, Charles, Outdoor Life, Oct2006

Network Your Way to Success

People you know can get you where you want to go.

How did an 11-year-old turn his neighbors' recyclables into cash? How did a high school student find a summer job? How did a teen turn a cat-sitting job into an opportunity to unleash her artistic talent? They did it the same way you can: by networking.

SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION
Networking is based on the principle that you can link yourself to anyone in the whole world through six other people, says Lara Zielin, author of Make Things Happen: The Key to Networking for Teens. "For example, you may have a cousin in Germany who knows a banker in Chile who is connected to a lawyer in Scotland," Zielin says. "Within six steps you may be able to connect with someone in virtually any part of the world!"

What's more, that someone just might be able to help you get what you Want -- whether it's extra cash, a job, or artistic inspiration.

Many teens think networking is something their parents do to find a job or to close a deal. Although it's true that networking is a great business practice, it's also a great skill for teens to develop.

Whether you want to be a better swimmer, start a business, become a coach, live in another country or help someone in need, networking is an easy way of nurturing personal connections and building a system of supporters who will help ensure your success every step of the way.

NETWORKING PAYS
Networking is nothing more than meeting people and building relationships--relationships that grow and have the power to be mutually beneficial. In fact, whether you know it or not, you've probably been reaping the advantages of networking all your life.

Take James Hawe, for instance. At 11, James, of Moorpark, Calif., wanted more spending money than his parents were willing to give him. But he was too young to get a job.

After helping his grandmother with her recyclables, James realized that his neighbors' bottles and cans could be his ticket to extra cash: That's because the state of California requires a 5-cent deposit on all bottles and cans. Residents pay the extra 5 cents when they purchase their beverages and receive a refund when they turn in their empty bottles and cans. But James knew many of his neighbors never took the time to return their empties. Instead, they just put them out with their garbage.

So James did a little networking with the people on his block and struck a deal with many of them. Each week, he'd be responsible for getting their garbage to the curb. In return, he'd get to keep the cans and bottles he found. The result: an extra $10 to $12 a week, or $40 to $50 a month, and a stronger relationship with his neighbors.

But what about the day when you need more than extra cash? In James's case, getting to know his neighbors now--and showing them that he's resourceful and hardworking--might help him when he turns 16 and is looking for an after school job or even when he needs a college recommendation letter or a summer internship. That's because networking can pay in the long run as well. Whether you need help perfecting a 360-degree skateboard spin, completing a college application, finding a used car, landing the job of your dreams, or making a new friend, your network can be the ticket to your success both today and in the future.

"The woman I worked for as an intern when I was in college has been a valuable resource in all areas of my life," says Mary Samek, a writer who lives in Dallas. "She helped me get my dream job, provided a reference so I could buy my first house, and even jump-started my car when the battery died."

But don't wait until you're out of high school to start making the most of your network. Start net working today.

Seventh-grade teacher Susann Bachel of Los Angeles gives her students (and you) this advice: View your friends' parents as more than just parents. "See them as real people with real interests, real skills, and a real desire to help," Bachel says.

"If your Monday-morning carpool driver is a lawyer, and you're interested in going to law school, use your time in the car to ask him or her what it's like to go to law school, intern for a public-interest group, or win a big case," she adds. "When you do, you'll have a better sense of whether becoming a lawyer is right for you and what you need to do now to make your dreams come true." And perhaps one day, that same carpool driver will invite you to sit in on a trial, help you study for the law school entrance exams, or invite you to intern at his or her firm.

FOUR FACTS ABOUT NETWORKING
To make your network as effective as possible, keep these tips in mind.

Networking is a way of life. Connecting with people is a continual practice of getting to know others--and letting them get to know you--so you can build strong relationships that are mutually beneficial.
The more you practice networking, the easier it gets. Networking is a skill that can be learned, like learning to speak Spanish or driving a car. After a while, you won't even have to think about it.
Give and you shall receive. Some people think networking is about getting what they want. It is, but it works so much better when you're willing to plant the first seed. The best way of expanding your network is to cultivate a garden of people who value what' you've done for them. Even little things can pay off in unexpected--and valuable--ways. For instance, Samek volunteered to help her friend Jeff Harrison, a professional race car driver, write an e-newsletter and other promotional materials. Harrison jumped at her offer, and knowing Samek's artistic talents, he also asked her to' paint a picture of his race car that he could give his sponsors--an opportunity Samek might not have gotten if she hadn't first volunteered to, help Harrison.
Say thank you. When someone helps you, be sure to say thank you. And try to do so in a meaningful way. That's what Meredith Williams, 18, of Garland, Texas, did after cat-sitting Gracie, her neighbor's cat. Despite the fact that Meredith was the one doing the favor, she sent her neighbor a note:
"I loved seeing your paintings around the house when I took care of Gracie! I've always been into art, but I usually drew because I thought I was terrible at painting. After I watched Gracie the first time, I went out and bought some acrylics and canvas and painted a picture of Gracie and I loved it! Thanks for unknowingly awakening the painter in me!"

Meredith also gave her neighbor a CD of digital pictures of Gracie she had taken while cat-sitting so that her neighbor could have the inspiration she needed to paint her own picture of Gracie. It was a simple gesture, but it says a lot about Meredith. And it helped her neighbor see her in a whole new light.

HOW TO START BUILDING YOUR NETWORK
"Everyone you meet is a potential member of your network," says Courtney Macavinta, coauthor of Respect: A Girl's Guide to Getting Respect and Dealing When Your Line Is Crossed. Macavinta, who began her career as an investigative journalist, says, "Networking has always been a part of my day job. I always need a network of sources for quotes and story ideas."

So how does she do it? By being a "KIT" person "That's a keep-in-touch person," Macavinta says. "You get what you give." So if your carpool driver tells you what it's like to be a lawyer, stay in touch. Take the initiative to start other conversations. Ask him or her to recommend a book or to tell you more about what it's like to practice law.

But before you have people to keep in touch with, you need to learn how to build strong relationships. Macavinta offers these five tips to use with every person you meet, whether it's the new girl in the school band or the manager who's interviewing you for a job at the mall.

1. Be yourself. When you're around other people, you've got to be true to the person you really are.

That means never lying about accomplishments to impress someone. You'll impress people more if you have the courage to say, "Gosh, I don't know anything about that. Could you fill me in?"

2. Be caring. Treat others how you want to be treated. If someone asks for help (or even if the person needs it and doesn't ask you for' it directly), do the best you can to help. And if someone tells you something in confidence;, keep it a secret.
3. Be honest. Honesty, combined with tact, helps others trust you. If someone you meet does pr says something that makes you uncomfortable, say 'so in a tactful way. "Boundaries can help you grow closer and build more respect," Macavinta says.
4. Be invested. Don't take your new contacts for granted. 'When you're there for them, they'll feel valued, and you'll see the payoff. As Macavinta says, "Good friendships make your life rich!"
5. Be open to new friends. Seek out people with whom you normally wouldn't interact. Kim Vappie owns MENTTIUM Corporation, a business that helps organizations recruit and retain diverse employees. "When I was in college, I worked with a man from Ethiopia," Vappie says. "Because I took the time to learn about his culture, it's been much easier for me to build business and personal relationships with others."

START NETWORKING NOW
Most likely, you've been networking your whole life and already know how to do it. With jobs, college, interviews, and more on the horizon, now's the time to take your networking to the next level.

Know what you want and who might be able to help you get it. Make a point of networking with everyone you come in contact with. You'll be amazed by what you'll receive, now and in the future.

The NETWORKING 'Tude
Networking today, tomorrow, and every day will help you get things you need now and in the future, whether it's a study buddy to help you learn how to write geometric proofs or a mentor who can help you land an internship. When you decide to connect with people, you open up the possibility of getting all you really want--professionally and, most important, personally. To make the most of your network, you need the right attitude. To get started, think like a networker by preparing your mind for the great support system you're about to start building. Take the time now to evaluate your beliefs about meeting people and, if you need to, give your attitude a makeover.

BAD ATTITUDE: "I want to get out of the store as fast as possible."

GOOD ATTITUDE: "I'm going to strike up a conversation with the cashier. You never know when I might want to get a job here."

BAD ATTITUDE: "I want people to learn all about me."

GOOD ATTITUDE: "I want to learn all about other people."

BAD ATTITUDE: "I don't like him. He's better than I am at that."

GOOD ATTITUDE: "Wow, he's really good at that. I wonder if held teach me how he does it."

BAD ATTITUDE: "I'm too shy to meet people."

GOOD ATTITUDE: "Everyone is shy sometimes. I'm going to smile and say 'hi.'"

By: Bachel, Beverly K., Career World, 2006

Seven Dangers Of Life

Don't Do's After Meal

By Dinesh Vora


[Danger 1]
Don't smoke- Experiment from experts proves that smoking a cigarette after meal is comparable to smoking ten cigarettes (chances of cancer is higher).

[Danger 2]
Don't eat fruits immediately - Immediately eating fruits after meals will cause stomach to be bloated with air. Therefore take fruit one to two hours after meal or one hour before meal.


[Danger 3]
Don't drink tea - Because tea leaves contain a high content of acid. This substance will cause the Protein content in the food consumed to be hardened and thus difficult to digest.

[Danger 4]
Don't loosen your belt - Loosening the belt after a meal will easily cause the intestine to be twisted and blocked.

[Danger 5]
Don't bathe - Bathing will cause the increase of blood flow to the hands, legs & body thus the amount of blood around the stomach will therefore decrease. This will weaken the digestive system in our stomach.

[Danger 6]
Don't walk about - People always say that after a meal walk a hundred steps and you will live to be ninety nine. In actual fact this is not true. Walking will cause the digestive system to be unable to absorb the nutrition from the food we intake.

[Danger 7]
Don't sleep immediately - The food one intakes will not be able to digest properly. Thus will lead to gastric and infection in the intestine.

Your Blog or Your Job

A blog (short for Web log, of course) entry like that may seem innocent and harmless now, but it could one day affect your career. As blogging has become more popular, some companies have taken action against employees who post job-related information on their personal blogs.

Mark Jen was an associate product manager for Google who kept a daily blog. Jen says, "I was really trying to keep in touch with family and friends since moving, and blogging seemed the most logical way." Google, however, wasn't happy with Jen's blog, which the company felt crossed a line between personal and professional. Jen was f