Credit Card Processing

For many small business owners, it couldn't be denied that there are still many merchant services credit card processing providers out there who take advantage of them by slapping them with high minimum payments and hidden fees.
I'm sure many business owners are aware of this which is why some businesses are closing and declaring bankruptcy instead of succeeding.

But as many would say, retail business can be unforgiving. And although that's the case, you can still learn to overcome the obstacles and learn better.
Getting into business is always a risk, but with careful planning and weighing the pros and cons very carefully as well as choosing the right merchant solution are one of the valuable steps to consider to help your business to succeed.

Better yet check Merchant Perfect when considering merchant services. In small businesses, the most critical consideration to focus upon would be the terms and fees. You should be aware that many merchant account providers can burden you with high monthly minimums and sliding rates plus hidden rates.

But here is a good news, though!
Merchant Perfect offers its customers credit card processing services at prices that small businesses can afford. The other good thing is that there is no application fee nor set-up fee involved once you apply online.
They even offer you same-ay approval.
Start opening a free account today, and a 24/7 toll-free support will ensure that you will be guided along the way when you need to.

Romantic Weekend Getaway-Berkeley Springs!

The town of Berkeley Springs in West Virginia was then known as the town of Bath since the year 1750, when Pres. George Washington took his brother Laurence to take in the warm mineral waters in the springs. Since then, many people had been going back to Berkeley Springs that they believe as the "healing waters."

Nowadays, it has become as a place with several spas, and dozens of owner-operated shops and restaurants, making it an all-encompassing weekend getaway you could ever experience. Due to a combination of relaxing spas and the small-town atmosphere, it makes it perfect for a romantic weekend getaway.

Berkeley Springs is also unique because of the various activities available for the weekender. It is located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia directly south of Hancock.

Recommended things to do in Berkeley Springs:

• Try the Roman Bath at the Berkeley Springs State Park which are the "original spas." The park has 9 individual 750 gallon tubs with walk-in chambers.
  
  
• Get a meal at Lot 12Public House, a place where Berkeley Springs native chef Damian Heath, who was a semi-finalist for the southeast region's best chef by the James Beard Foundation.
  

Online Beauty Supply Store

If you are a beauty shop owner and currently looking for products that are budget-friendly and yet high quality products, perhaps, you might want to check Lee Beauty online or visit leebeauty.com for more options.
This online beauty store is not only limited to beauty salon business owners but also for customers who want to buy their beauty tools or hair accessories for their personal use.

Don't forget to check remy hair extentions, - you can get these items with as much as 50% of savings!
You can check other hair extension products as well along with a lot of hair styles that you need for your shop, or for your personal style use. This is really the place where you can get cheap hair extensions, trusted by many professional hair experts and stylists.

In today's economic situation, business can be tough to handle because most prices are all sky-rocketing!
Aren't you glad you have finally found a beauty supply outlet online where you can save a lot?
This is the right place for you to visit where you can see unbeatable prices and when it comes to getting your hair products and accessories.

If you are a beauty shop business owner, you wouldn't regret buying your products here.
I should say, it's just practically wise to do it because it means business should always do good as well ;).

Weekender Trip at Washington DC

I have been to DC several times, but honestly, there are still many places that I haven't been to. I must agree to the fact that the nation's capital is really worthy of a full-out stay-there vacation!

In northwest of DC, try visiting Kreeger Museum that offers a wide selection of art from various artists including Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, etc...

Another lesser known attraction is the Wolly Mammoth Theater Company, a playhouse known for developing new works.

You can also extend your stay and try getting a true presidential feel and set up shop at the Hay-Adams Hotel, just located across the street from the White House! This luxurious hotel has been noted Most Excellent Hotel in the U.S. and Canada by Conde' Nast.

Women's Health

When it comes to health, most women consider it a top priority,-the reason why Healthwomen (HW) is created that helps many women and mother out there in managing their health.

Healthywomen is a nonprofit organization and is a resourceful health information source online for women. It is here where women have been coming to for answering their questions about personal health care questions including pregnancy information for mothers.

And speaking about parenting and pregnancy, a pregnancy advice is so much of a great help from the site, and particularly a big help to those first-time moms, as well as those mothers with multiple kids.

There are a lot of information we need to know and learn when it comes to womens health, from being a future mom to motherhood, until the midlife and beyond.

Healthywomen.org is actually an award-winning website which is a site solely dedicated to women's health and even recognized nationally as a go-to-source for trustworthy health information for women.
No need to wonder why because it has earned the trust of many consumers and even health care providers as well as nonprofit and corporate partners and the media.
So, I believe, being a woman, in order to be healthy should be well-informed and being empowered.

A Scenic Underground Cave

One of the best nature pick to choose for summer destination! - Penn's Cave, Pennsylvania!
Instead of hiking a mountain to experience Pennsylvania's natural beauty, why not try a trip underground?

Penn's cave is the country's only all-water cavern and wildlife park located in scenic central Pennsylvania. There is a one-hour tour of the underground stream through a flat-bottom motorboat that glides through the stunning formations in Penn's cave, revealing stalagmites, stalactites and flow stone cascades and draperies that have been formed by dripping water more than thousands of years.
Make sure to wear your jackets as the temperature inside the cave is 52F all year round.

You can also take a 90-minutes guided bus tour above ground that surrounds pastures and mountain trails.
Penn's cave has a 1,500 acres of forest that have been preserved as a natural habitat for birds and mammals, including the white-tailed deer, elk and mountain lion.

Business Card Printers

When it comes to a superior quality online business printing service, it must be good! And how would you like a printing service that is not only considered as high quality but also at an incredibly low price? Quite a good deal, right?

Print Early covers all things a customer would be looking for. If you are currently searching for a cheap brochure printing for example, check the samples from Print Early and choose from hundreds of designs! They are also available in many popular sizes and folding options.

Many out there still use business cards even today. It's also here where you can find a cheap business card printing in full color with three various coatings to choose from.
A cheap postcard printing is available as well.

Take note that all products can either be printed in house or green paper. If you want green printing, just check it with their pricing calculator on the right side of the screen, choose the paper with Go Green and your items will be printed on green paper with no extra charge.

Print Early is one of the greenest printers in the US today that uses soy-based inks and with state-of-the-art recycled paper choices and hi-fidelity color printing.

Mohegan Sun @ Pocono Downs, PA

I don't frequent casinos, but I have been once at one in Vegas, and one at Hollywood Casino here in MD :).
But this one could be your splurge pick as an entertainment spot, - a classy casino in the Pocono Mountains. The casino offers 2,500 slot machines ranging from a penny to $100. It continues to expand with racing, restaurants and shops.

The casino is open 24 hours a day, and be sure to take some time off to spend your lucky money you've made at Pearl Sushi Bar or at Ruth's Christ Steakhouse ;).
Pearl Sushi Bar offers large selection of flavored martinis.

Many hotels also surround the area that offer free shuttle services to the casino.

Military Auctions

If you are looking for a top quality auction and realty services online, affiliatedauctions.com is the right place for you.
Affiliated Auctions & Realty is a company that specializes in buying and selling various items such as jewelries, coins, real estate and even military auctions.
If you are searching for the best military auctions online or if you are interested in selling antique firearms at a gun auction, Affiliated Auctions can assist you with it.

This company is obviously more than an auction site because of their huge list of various items and services that they offer, unlike any ordinary gun auction sites that only focus on one limited service.
The company is an established auction house, buyer and reseller and has an unparalleled knowledge, experience, capabilities and marketing to help you maximize your return.

Affiliated Auctions has proven its extensive experience when it comes to military auctions because they focus on a personalized service to customers as they reach out to them directly.
Don't forget to check on their military surplus auctions online for the complete schedules and venues as well.

The company also accepts consignments, so if you are interested to consign, visit them online through their gallery or contact them at 1-850-445-9378.
Rest assured that should you decide to do business with them, you will be given the very best service and expertise.

Summer Destination For Sports - Flushing Meadows, NY

Any sports enthusiast can be allured of New York's venues. Baseball fans can now choose from two new, state-of-the-art stadiums and basketball fans can take in a game at historic Madison Square Garden.

Each September, tennis fans flock at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows for the most significant tennis tournaments of the season.
The US open is being held August 31-September 13, one of the four grand slam events in tennis which provides a perfect opportunity for an end-of summer trip to the Big Apple.

The main court is located in the 24,000-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium, which is also lit allowing for action to take place after the sun sets.

Magnum Boots

Are you looking for the toughest tactical boots ever? You might want to check magnumboots.com, a well established Magnum footwear in the US and their products are highly recommended and demanded by the FBI due to the quality of boots when it comes to durability, performance and comfort.
The boots are exclusively built for the urban battlefield, technically proven and field tested whether you are in combat for military operations, a mountain trekker, or any tough jobs that you are into, the technical advantages are absolutely excellent and provide ultimate comfort as well.

Magnum boots are one of the police equipment needs of today since it is designed in the field usually being used by the best tactical operators not only in the US but in the whole world.

For those who are involved in risky environmental jobs, there are also shoes made for them such as non slip shoes that will keep them working without putting them at risk. These are safety boots you can trust with the options that workers can rely on daily while on their tough jobs without compromising on durability and comfort.

One good thing about the company is that they have field testers where they are allowed to share their experiences wearing their products, as well as suggestions from consumers that help the company create even better products.

How & When To Visit An Art Gallery

The great place to start enjoying art is in the art gallery.

Before the visit, try your research about art galleries that showcase your best interest. The best art scenes usually are in the cities of New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, although don't stop looking as there are still many excellent galleries out in major cities.
Most galleries change their shows every 6-8 weeks, so keep going back as new arts are updated.

Time it right when to visit galleries. Most of them are typically open from Tuesday-Saturday. If you prefer to visit in a more peaceful setting, avoid the weekends since they are the busiest. Plan to visit during weekdays. It's also fun to go to a gallery opening...you don't usually need to be invited to attend.

Get the habit of making your own feedbakcs from any gallery's art works. Do a lap around the room, look and evaluate the art yourself. It's essential to know what an artist is saying on the art itself, but it's equally important to have your own experience of the work.

It's perfectly fine to ask questions about the art work from the artists or from the gallery personnel if they are around.
Remember: Everyone has to start their art education somewhere :).

Shelterwood For Troubled Teens

Youths are the hope of our nation. Can you just imagine the pain if your teen is one of those who are troubled and needs help? Whether that trouble is caused by drug or alcohol abuse, depression, low-self esteem, family conflict and discord, or any other factors, they are all the same in ruining a person's future.

And when it comes to a therapeutic boarding school that can fully help a troubled teen, consider checking Shelterwood.org, a place that is ideally suited for teenagers who need therapeutic opportunity that would ultimately help them change their behaviors from the inside out.
At Shelterwood, they are fully equipped in providing individual group, and family therapy along with an accredited school that offers at-risk youth programs. This boarding school is considered to be unique from other ordinary boarding schools because they don't only provide solid educational training, but also helps the youth undergo a life-changing therapeutic interactions as well.
And to top it all, these hurting teens will be molded with true spiritual values and beliefs through God's promises and unfailing love. This is one golden opportunity that will be all worth it in the end, don't you think?

If your teen is one of those that needs help, searching for a therapeutic boarding school is a top priority. That is why Shelterwood is born.
Since it was founded in 1980, it has remained committed to the relationship model of care for troubled and hurting teens, and served more than a thousand families through their at-risk youth programs more than thirty years later.

Used to be located in Branson, MO, Shelterwood is now seated to a beautiful new 200-acres facility close to Missouri River Basin of Independence. It is also licensed as a Residential Child Care Facility through Missouri State's Division of Family Services, a non-profit and faith-based organization.
Because of its state-of-the-art teaching facilities, all teens are ensured to always stay on their task, as well as they feel safe, secure and stimulated while counseling team and mentor staff work along with them.

There is no doubt that as a parent of a troubled teen, your mind will feel at peace as you can see your child transform into a different person where he/she can ultimately find their way through adolescence and would help them reconnect deeper with their family.

Summer Destination - Lewes, Delaware

Lewes, DE has so much to offer summer travelers, - pristine beaches, chic boutiques, upscale eateries, outdoor activities.
The town of Lewes is home to the 5,000-acre Cape Henlopen State Park that has 2 swimming beaches, nature trails and a fishing pier.
It is filled with cedar-paneled beach cottages and historic houses, - and the town is also called "the first town in the first state." It's Delaware's "Saltiest Town" which has reinvented itself as a tourist destination.

Here are 5 things to do in Lewes if you're in town:

• Take a walk in Cape Henlopen State Park and climb to the top of the World War II observation tower that offers panoramic views of the coast and park.
• You can go fishing at one of the bays in and around the town or take a ride on a chartered boat.
• Take a tour of historic houses in Lewes. Guides are available at Lewes Historical Society.
• Stroll along Roosevelt Inlet and look for shipwreck remains from a 1700's-era wreck occasionally wash up on the shore.
• Visit farmer's market on Shipcarpenter Street on Saturday mornings. The market also boasts produce, cookies, bread and other baked goodies.
  

Web Conferencing Service

If your company needs a more collaborative experience, you might want to check The Conference Group online which offers full range of audio teleconference and Web conferencing services. This group has been in business since 1999, with a goal that focuses on quality customer service, which ultimately has resulted in a high degree of customer satisfaction.

With the changing face of the business world that continues to demand better forms of communication, the Web conference has opened its doors to various companies for a better, faster and more sophisticated method of communication between employees and clients no matter where their locations are.
It's so amazing that as years go by, communication technologies are always getting better and better!

The Conference Group has also a Readyshow web conferencing service that would enable clients to fully customize their experience as well as enabling them to choose the features they need to make meetings more effective.
Meeting attendees can also be able to log on and get to experience a live and ready access to documents referenced during a call. This unique feature controls can also be controlled by meeting leaders such as things like poll taking and document sharing.
The Conference Group delivers more than just web Conference calls. Don't forget to check on other services they offer such as audio and video conferencing as well.

European Train Travel 101

Riding the trails is the best alternative to air travel not only because it's cheaper, but also practical, romantic and a great chance to take the scenery up close. It is also easier on the environment, plus you avoid the hassles of security line delays at the airport, etc...

Your tickets to ride:
Raileurope.com - specializes in selling single tickets as well as all of the major multi trip passes.

BritRail Passes (from $259 for 4 days) - are the only option available to North Americans for an unlimited travel throughout Britain. (Snag this before your trip - they're not sold in U.K.)

Eurail Passes - include Global Pass (from $744 for the 15-day first class option) and valid in 20 countries. For lesser and shorter itineraries, there's the Eurail Select Pass good for 3-5 adjoining countries. Whichever you choose, buy it here. Buying it in Europe will be 20% more expensive.

First class tickets cost about 50% more than 2nd class. That typically buys a reclining seat, a meal, bigger space for luggage and a quiet train car.
Second class ticket is fine if your trip is only a few hours.

MR Direct Sinks & Faucets

If your kitchen sink needs upgrading, a stainless steel kitchen sink would be ideal because of its clean look and durability. No wonder why many prefers the stainless steel for today's kitchens.

My kitchen sinks don't need any remodeling right now, but MR Direct would be worth recommending to some friends who might be needing stainless steel kitchen sinks for their home in the future.

Gratuity Standards Around The World

In most of Europe, Australia, Japan and other countries where leaving a large amount of tip is uncommon, servers are paid a living wage.
But in the US, base pay for waiters averages at $4. per hour, so tipping is vital to their livelihood.
The rule of thumb before traveling to certain places is to research the tipping customs of the place you are going before you leave.

A cheat sheet below can help you the next time you travel out of the country.

US and Canada:
Server: - at least 15% minimum before tax, including cost of drinks; if good service, 18-20%
Bartender: - 15-20% of the tab; $1. for a beer or wine and $2. for mixed drinks.

Caribbean/Bahamas and Mexico:
Server: - 10-15% in Mexico; the same in caribbean and Bahamas but often is already included in the bill.
Bartender: - 10% in Mexico; 10-15% in Caribbean and Bahamas.

South America:
Server: - 10% across the board. In Brazil, service charge is often included.
Bartender: - $1. per drink; 10% in Brazil (often included).

Europe:
Server: - it is acceptable to leave an additional 5-15% although it is already included in the bill because wages are higher; Not expected in Scandinivian countries.
Bartender: - if service is included, it's acceptable to give an extra 5%, otherwise, 5-10%.

Middle East & Africa:
Server: - 10-15% (often included)
Bartender: $1 per drink.

Asia:
Server: - not expected in Japan; up to $1.50 in some parts of China; 10% in India (often included).
Bartender: not expected, but some leave small change.

Australia and New Zealand:
Server: - not expected, but 5-10% for outstanding service.
Bartender: - not expected.

Other Services:
For special services, tip extra such as spending time on your wine selection (+ 10% of the wine's cost) or getting a choice table ($10-20). These are seldom expected outside the US.

Parking valet: - $2-$5. (Tip up front for a better service.)
Coat Check: - $1 per item is acceptable, and $2 would be better. In Asia, no tip is necessary.

Designer Sunglasses Online

If you love to wear or collect designer sunglasses, check these top designer sunglasses from popularglasses.com where you can get them at an affordable prices. You will also find all kinds of glasses such as for sports, reading, driving and other glasses for your daily activities.
All products are 100% authentic and brand new, plus you can shop online securely at your utmost convenience.

Check the Gucci Sunglasses and choose from everyday use to sleek logo frames that would compliment every outfit of yours. (I love Gucci products!)
You can also get to choose trendy and fashionable styles that make it more attractive for you to wear.

Dior Sunglasses are also available that ranges from simple and understated styles to the perfect complement for those want to make a fashion statement!

If you are into sports that demand superior eye protection in extreme conditions. Costa Del Mar Sunglasses are the ideal ones to use. Costa Del Mar glasses are well-designed and mostly preferred by many athletes, explorers and even celebrities that love to trek the outdoor adventures. These are built to last, so if you want durability full of superior style, these products are the best choices.

Popular Glasses only sells genuine products and no replicas or imitations! The only difference would be the price, which means lots of savings when you choose to shop from them online.

Travel Tips to Save Time & Money

If you travel a lot, perhaps by now you're already learning the best tricks on spending less on airfare or skipping a long check-in line ;).

Flexibility can make all the difference when it comes to finding a great rate. Choose your destination as you search for deals from your home airport. Site such as bing.com might help which can let you look for reduced airfares.

You can pay less for an upgrade with a Y-up economy class fare. You will spend about the same amount for a full-fare coach ticket, but be automatically upgraded to first class upon checking in.
Take note though that Y-up fares are not available on all flights (never for an international trip) and can be expensive, highly restricted or impossible. Book thru a travel agent or use the Y-up tool at farecompare.com.

Tuesday, Wednesdays or Saturdays are the best days to travel where congestion at the counter and dt security are less. On other days, choose early morning flights as the best option.

You can always request an upgrade when booking a coach ticket, then check in at the business class counter at the airport to see if the upgrade went through. Even if it isn't there, you can still check in there and avoid long economy lines.

When searching for hotels, combine your online research with direct bookings and find the best rates on sites like hotelscombined.com or wego.com. You can possibly get reduced internet rate, as well as personalized service that comes with booking directly.

Don't pay extra for web access. If your hotel offers free wi-fi like the lobby or public area, don't bother shelling out $20 daily.

If you're going for an out of the country trip, as your bank for no-fee partners and if there are free overseas cash-machine locations. ATM fees overseas can be high and expensive.

If you're traveling long distance between major cities, consider an overnight sleeper car such as the train. You will save on airfare and hotel costs.