The Poker Nightcap

Sports footwear is believed to be the most significant piece of equipment you will obtain so it is necessary that you elect to choose the most suitable shoes.

A great many people don’t recognise that there are various differences in the way in which sports shoes help your feet. It is not great for your feet if you play football or tennis in the exact same footwear you use for jogging.

“Unfortunately, sixty five percent of the UK’s recreational men & women put on the wrong shoes for their preferred sports activity,” he says. “Shoes are the most necessary piece of exercise gear you’ll ever pay money for & varying what you wear on your feet can put off damage.”

Football can put plenty of stress on the feet, especially when playing on synthetic pitches like that of AstroTurf. The boots can also put stress on your feet, and it’s not rare for a footballer to suffer from corns, calluses or damaged, thickened & ingrown toenails. A terrific, well-fitted pair of football boots is fundamental and there should not be any signs of pressure on the foot after a game or training session. Find superb deals on golf irons online today.

Racquet sports: It is essential when playing racket sports, for example tennis or badminton, to choose trainers particularly designed for the purpose. These sports involve lots of left-to-right movement & running trainers won’t offer the required stability. Racquet sport footwear are heavier & more solid than running shoes, because their toes are manufactured for stop-&-go action. Comfort is advised to be your most important priority and It’s important to change your sports shoes frequently.

Walking is a superb way to start a gentle fitness schedule, whereas the more daring go for mountaineering. It is tremendous for your cardiovascular health but is lower impact and so comes with reduced risk of harm.

It is a pretty well known fact and has been proven that the body seems to pre-adjust to changes in advance of events by a second or two. For instance there have been studies of test subjects with finger sensors, which would show the subjects pulse or adrenaline spiked right before they were to be shocked. Those of us who know about this have found ourselves in competitive sports with an almost uncanny intuition. Of course this favors the athlete who senses it and takes advantage of this just before an event on the playing field.

Have you ever noticed that you wake up a minute before the alarm clock goes off? Well then you MAY have experienced this same sensation. Some say in this case that it is pre-cognition of your rapid body change and that while in a dream state your mind is not stuck in time as in the waking hours. It flows thru other dimensions. Others say that concept is bogus and that your circadian rhythm is the explanation. Okay so we have competing theories and neither side has been able to prove convincingly either way one or the other is entirely correct. Some studies have been done in which someone else sets the alarm clock and the subjects still wake up just before the alarm rings? Interesting how is that possible then? Well, some say we can communicate or send thoughts out to those we know. And whoever set the alarm and is doing the experiment sent a little mental message to the sleeper and gave away the time? Bummer? But you cannot prove that.

I therefore propose an experiment. Get 40 people all sleeping and forty alarm clocks which are each set in advance by a computer with no clock on them, just little black boxes; all different times. Each alarm clock is to be set by a sleeping person at different times in different places. Then see if everyone wakes up just before they go off. Ah ha, then you will know if it is precognition of a very abrupt change in bio-rhythms from the sound of the alarm or if they stay sleeping until the end you know it was the circadian rhythm all along.

Now then in further review of this experiment, let us say a sniper is aiming at a group of US Soldiers and the insurgent is about to send a killer round, which will kill that soldier? Okay what if we put a device on the neck, a piece of tape with a sensor in it. The sensor would pick up a faster heart rate and thus trigger a twelve-volt battery to shock the soldier warning him. He would then duck or immediately do something different. This would be good in the event of guarding a checkpoint as well. Since in our first experiment we re-prove this innate sensation and ability exists, now we use it to save lives. Think on this. This experiment will cost $30,000 to prove.

“Lance Winslow” – Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

During my years of research for Earache prevention, I found that repeated allergies, sinus, and ear infections are the result of a “weakened immune system” mainly due to “antibiotic overuse.” Antibiotics kill good and bad bacteria in the colon resulting in poor digestion and impaired absorption of nutrients. So even when I gave my son a healthy diet and vitamin supplements, he was still having chronic earaches and sinusitis, because he was not absorbing needed nutrients to keep his immune system healthy and strong.

In addition to impaired absorption, antibiotics damage the mucosa (the inner lining of the small intestines) so toxins that should normally exit the body, get absorbed into the blood stream instead. Toxins in the blood stream can cause various allergic reactions such as hives, body aches, sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Runny noses and fluid buildup provide the breeding ground for bacterial ear infections.

A simple remedy is to supplement with Lactobacillus Acidophilus (friendly flora), which is a good bacteria that will repair the mucosa by replenishing the natural balance of friendly flora in the colon that the antibiotics has destroyed. For supplement info see link below.

Other factors that wear down the immune system are:

There are thousands of man-made chemicals today that did not exist a hundred years ago. Today our children’s immune systems are overloaded with toxins and have to work harder to remove them. Working overtime causes the immune system to run out of essential elements (necessary oils and enzymes), which are the fuel it needs to carry on. When your tank is out of gas you fill it up, right? And likewise, our immune system is no different. To fuel up we need “basic building blocks” called “amino acids” (protein) and “essential oils” (omega 3) in order to strengthen the immune system heal chronic diseases. Toxic overload without regular refueling will cause the immune system and the liver to burnout out. The end result is low “immune system function.”

Cutting back on processed foods that have toxic food additives and preservatives can make a huge difference in the health of you and your child. Replace processed foods with whole fruits, grains, and vegetables. You will be surprised how much better your child will feel. In addition, their attention span will improve and hyperactivity will be diminished.

One of the most common processed foods to eliminate is white sugar. Excess dietary sugar is toxic to the body and promotes fungal infections in the gut, ear, nose and throat. Many chronic earaches and sinus problems are actually fungal infections. Instead use an All-Natural Sugar substitute that is safe for kids called Xylitol. In fact, Xylitol actually prevents infections.

The goal to long-term healing is to get the immune system strong again.

• First, by improving digestion using natural digestive enzymes thus improving absorption of nutrients.
• Second, is to identify and remove allergens. Research shows that the vast majority of kids with chronic earaches & sinus infections are allergic to wheat, diary, and beef. So eliminating or reducing these foods will bring help bring healing. Alternative food choices are yogurt, soymilk, lactaid milk, rice, oats, and etc.
• Third, limiting or eliminating proteins from cow products and replacing them with easily digestible proteins such as yogurt, beans, and whey protein powder drinks. Protein powder drinks are chock full of essential and nonessential amino acids that do not need to be digested only absorbed, are very helpful because protein drink mixes are quick and easy to fix. Why should you eliminate cow proteins?

1. This is because allergic kids usually have problems digesting proteins and lack “protease”, which is an enzyme needed for protein digestion.
2. In addition, allergic kids have trouble removing the metabolic waste from protein digestion due to enzyme deficiency.
3. Last and most important is the fact that milk products produce excess flem and mucous in throat and sinuses.

Short-term healing can be achieved by:

• Adding all-natural antibiotics in addition to your doctor’s care. Natural antibiotics (colloidal silver) can be administered both topically (ear drops & sinus sprays) and orally. My experience when using natural antibiotic eardrops is that ear pain is gone usually within an hour.

• Making a fresh juice cocktail of carrots, apples, beets, and spinach gives “superior nutrition” and tons of antioxidants very quickly.

• Giving lactobacillus acidophilus to restore floral balance in the colon.

Other helpful strategies include:

• Drink more water and eat more fresh unprocessed foods.
• Get thirty minutes of exercise and sunshine each day.

1. Exercise creates enzymes in the mitochondria of cells to burn fat, burning fat = getting rid of toxins from the body. For more information see link below and email me for a free e-book.
2. Sunshine is needed for the body to make Vitamin D3. Most kids and elderly folks cannot convert Vitamin D2 supplements into D3 the active form in the body, so their immune system is lacking vitamin D3. D3 is necessary to help the immune system recognize & fight invaders.

The “Key” to “Sinus Infection Cure” and “Earache Prevention” is to get the immune system healthy again by using natural antibiotics, eliminating toxins, and by improving digestion thus increasing absorption of nutrients. Once absorption is improved healthy food and supplementation is necessary to replenish the immune system. Achieving all this strengthens the immune system so the body can heal itself.

IMPROVED DIGESTION AND ABSORPTION = BETTER NUTRITION = HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM

More information is available here: http://www.natural-cures-ear-sinus-infections.com I will also send you a free e-book about natural cures upon your request. Send request to: scott@natural-cures-ear-sinus-infections.com

2005 Scott Woutersz- Reprints allowed as long as copy is complete with the last paragraph and copyright information.

It is algebra that we apply to get our daily things done. We are a kind that constantly keeps counting, measuring, dividing, and multiplying.

History of Algebra

Invented in the first millennium BC, algebra was first invented in the middle-east. The ancient brains used algebra for solving daily problems while the Asian or rather Chinese counterpart applied geometry for the same function

What is the Nature of Algebra?

Although you may see algebra as solving formulas, simplifying rational expressions, and converting fractions to decimals, algebra is one of the sciences that has the to the highest degree of applicability when it comes to practice. Since this view has been understood, the education system pushes us to learn algebra from the inception of our student life.

Algebra I

The students are given an intro in this study course to numbers, solving linear equations, graphing systems of linear equations, graphing linear inequalities, laws of exponents, solving radical equations , and factoring polynomials. This course of study sets the groundwork for the rest of the higher algebra waiting to be explored in the next two stages.
If a pupil is keen on learning algebra down to its roots, then this is a subject area course of study that should be undertaken well.

Algebra II

Once the students are competent with Algebra I constructs, Algebra II can be taken up for widening the spectrum of this fabulous segment of mathematics. There are two views of Algebra II; stressing more on the topics learned in Algebra I and introduction to new constructs. When it comes to the new introductions, adding and subtracting matrices, quadratic functions, solving exponential equations, probability and statistics are noteworthy.
In this plane of study, pupils are supposed to focus more on the core constructs.

College Algebra

This is one of the most critical levels of learning Algebra with virtually no new topic presented. I assume it is quite ironic, but this is the nature of maths. Mathematics is named the queen of all scientific disciplines. Do you know why? That’s because of the unpredictable nature of maths!

How to get help on Algebra?

There are many methods and tools available for getting assistance for Algebra subject fields. The first and the foremost primary source is an Algebra tutor from whom you can get help and assistance.
In addition to the above methods, one should never underestimate the use of Algebra software package that is particularly designed to solve algebraic problems with illustrative steps. This computer software really adds insight in to Algebraic procedures of solving equations , by providing students to simply watch and learn through exercises.

Warning on dental amalgam, used in many dental fillings, causes exposure to mercury, a metal known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm

Root canal treatments and restorations including fillings, crowns and bridges, use chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer

Superior Court, California 2003

Well folks, I think the above statement by the California Superior Court ‘about-says-it-all’.

There is no minimum level of mercury which has been shown to be safe!

Indeed the W.H.O. or the World Health Organisation tells us that Mercury(Silver fillings comprise some 50% mercury then Silver, Tin, Copper and Zinc makep the rest) is safe in ZERO amounts in the human body. Remember they do not say in-parts-per-million OR parts-per-Billion BUT ZERO amounts.

So remember, if you get your amalgams removed ‘just-anywhere, by just ‘any-one’ Dentist you may also risk exposing yourself to an extremely toxic gas called ‘Methyl-Mercury’; Which is produced when your Amalgams are being ‘drilled-out’ during extraction thereof.

So please try and get to see a dentist who routinely deals with these ‘Metal-based dental issues’ from the link presented below.

Root Canal Therapy is equally unsuported by scientific validity – as dentists are not given information about the incredible side effects which are possible and common. Alzhiemer’s, MS, Immune System problems, effects on the brain and nervous system and direct poisoning from mercury and formaldehyde, are just some of the problems associated with current dental treatment.

There is another, largely unknown issue revolving around Amalgams that the average person just-would-have-no-awareness-of which is ‘THE BATTERY EFFECT’.

Yes, your amalgams generate electricity!!!!!!!!! Why? Because the definition of a Battery is: ‘2 dis-similar metals in an electrolite’. Yes this will generate electricity from your metal fillings because your amalgam is an AMALGAMATION of 5 dis-similar metals (See above) in a sea of electrolyte which is your Saliva. Therefore only just one amalgam in your mouth can generate electricity, let alone sometimes dozens which can be present in some mouths.

A rough rule-of-thumb then is that IF you have metals in your mouth AND when you touch metal surfaces ‘you-get-a-shock’ then it is highly likely your metallic teeth are highly involved & these metal extracted before something-like anaphylaxis(See below) could manifest.

However in over 12 years in addressing the full-spectrum of almost all dis-ease known to man AS WELL AS having understood the Dental question, in my opinion I have seen ‘Dental issues’ implicated in such diseases as:

Lymphoma (Clients)

Leukemia (Clients)

Other Blood dyscrasias, even chronic anaemia (Clients)

Primary Brain cancer(My 46 yo brother died of his Root canals in 1999)
Anaphylaxis -Acute imminently life-threatening shock (A close friend used to get a lot of ’shocks’ which could even ‘kill computers’ or explode light bulbs. Indeed, her anaphylaxis was so bad that when her amalgams were measured electrically they were generating 100’s of times the normal voltages the human body usually works at…No wonder her body went into shock many times per year!)

Stubborn obesity (Me and many of my Clients)

Diabetes and other blood sugar imbalances (Clients)

Chronic/acute Sinusitis (Clients/My Wife)

Chronic Hayfever (My Wife)

Chronis ear discharges(Sister-in-law)

Migraines(Clients)

Aggressive Liver cancer(A 50 yo. client who was given 3-6 months to live with what doctors called ‘aggressive-liver-cancer’. After removing her old dental plates(Dentures) and replacing same with a ‘biocompatible’ plate material even her oncologist told her the aggressive-nature of her liver cancer had eased markedly. Unfortunately she died 2 years after her diagnosis but her family thanked me after her burial for giving them some quality-time with their mother, as-well-as helping easing alot of her pain.)

Chronic neck pain(Sister-in-law) etc, all intimately involved-in or causing these diseases

If you’re looking for a Biocompatible dentist in your area of the world please checkout our link below.

Glen Rees,BSc, ND. Fulltime practicing Natural therapist for over 23 years in country Victoria, Australia.
See our website below for more information:
http://www.pranicpulseoflife.com/dental_issues.html

Essential oils provide a fantastic natural alternative to common ailments we see at home. The actions of essentialoils are broad, ranging from topical antiseptics and anti-inflammatories to analgesics, digestive system tonics,and anti-depressants. While essential oils should not be a substitute for professional medical care, they canbe successfully employed for many minor complaints, and as adjuncts to other therapies.

Here we will have a brief look at ten essential oils which may comprise the ‘basic home care kit’.While by no means exhaustive, this list will go a long way to providing effective (and often pleasant!) treatmentsfor you and your family for things like cuts and scrapes, sunburn, digestive troubles, stress related conditionsand more. In the second article, we will cover specific applications and uses of each oil.

Oil #1: Tea Tree Essential Oil

When first examined for it’s antiseptic properties, Tea Tree essential oil was found to be 100 timesmore powerful than carbolic acid – the medical standard at the time. Tea tree has an extremely broadrange of antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal properties that have been confirmed by modern scientific research.Often used topically on small wounds, Tea Tree is also commonly found in oral hygiene preparations, and canalso be effectively employed for Candida, athlete’s foot and acne, among other things.

Oil #2: Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender has often been called the ‘medicine chest in a bottle’ for its broad range of applications.Every home should keep Lavender on hand, even if no other oil is used, as it is so very effective on burns.It’s anti-inflammatory action is responsible for the beginnings of modern aromatherapy, as Dr. Jean Valnetdiscovered Lavender’s healing properties after being burned in a laboratory accident. Lavender is consideredto speed wound healing and reduce scarring. The oil is also pleasantly calming, and can be used to reduce stressin a variety of situations – a commonly used technique is to apply Lavender oil ‘neat’ (undiluted)to the soles of the feet of patients recovering from almost any ailment.

Oil #3: Chamomile Essential Oil

Ah, the great tension reliever, Chamomile oil. This extremely gentle essential oil is useful for a wide varietyof nervous conditions, and is often indicated for cases of stress in children (including teething and general ‘crankiness’).Rubbing into the solar plexus is a commonly used application if that is where one tends to ‘hold tension’.Chamomile essential oil is available in to varieties, German or Blue Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. The Romanvariety is most often used for stress relief, whereas the German variety has the added bonus of being an extremelyeffective anti-inflammatory.

Oil #4: Peppermint Essential Oil

An excellent digestive tonic, Peppermint essential oil can sooth many stomach complaints. For the traveler,it’s effectiveness on calming motion sickness can be of great help. Further, at least eight controlledstudies have shown Peppermint oil to be effective in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a painfulcondition of the intestines. Beyond it’s support of the digestive system, Peppermint is delightfullystimulating to the mind, brightening and sharpening mental focus. Finally, Peppermint is considered by someto be a more effective insect repellent than citronella when used on the body (rather than in the surroundingair).

Oil #5: Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Another essential oil with a broad range of properties, Eucalyptus is most often used for respiratory conditions,being useful in clearing congestion with coughs and colds. However, it’s effects are certainly not limitedto the airways – because of it’s broad range of effects, it has been called the aromatherapists ‘designeroil’. Eucalyptus oil can cool the body in Summer (or due to fever – use in a compress), and supportthe immune system in Winter. Diffusing Eucalyptus oil can kill most staphylococcus bacteria, again being supportiveof bronchial infections. It is considered equally effective in cases of cystitis, candida, and sunburn, toname a few, as well as being an insect repellent.

Oil #6: Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium (sometimes known as ‘Geranium Rose’) works wonderfully on both physiological and psychologicallevels. It’s floral aroma is brightening and uplifting, while also working as a sedative. Malte Hozzelhas made this statement regarding this oil : “Geranium’s vital, sensual presence is not subtle,but direct & unavoidable, making it one of the oils of choice for aphrodisiac qualities. (Geranium EssentialOil) inspires natural beauty & enjoyment, uplifts instantly & “tonifies” the mind & intellectin a powerful, nearly demanding attitude. Mobilizing hidden creative & emotional reserves, helping us torise to our own earthly & spiritual identify. A fiery beauty for the spells of all worlds.” Particularlynoted for it’s effect on female physiologic conditions, Geranium oil can be effective for menopausalproblems, uterine and breast complaints.

Oil #7: Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil is an effective physical and mental stimulant, whether used in a diffuser or in a morningbath. It’s slightly spicy, rather than floral aroma, has a warming effect particularly useful for arthriticjoints and other muscular complaints. It also has a long history of treatment for colds and flu – Rosemarywas a component of ‘Four Thieves Vinegar’, which robbers rubbed upon their bodies to prevent infectionwhen up to no good during the plague years of the middle ages. Also, Rosemary is the essential oil most oftenassociated with improving hair growth in cases of Alopecia.

Oil #8: Thyme Essential Oil

Thyme oil is a powerful antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic and diuretic, though it should be employed withgreat care. There are many types of Thyme oil available, but only the ‘linalol’ chemotype is appropriatefor use with children; all varieties should be diluted prior to topical application. Given the precautions,Thyme can be a first line of defense in cases of flu, being used in a room diffuser. It also supports eliminationof toxic wastes from the body (particularly noted for excessive uric acid), and it’s warming qualitycan eliminate mucous and phlegm. It’s application for the digestive system is that of a powerful anti-parasitic,and for the muscular system, it can be helpful for rheumatic aches and pains. Thyme oil may also be supportivein cases of hair loss.

Oil #9: Lemon Essential Oil

A recent study on test-taking college students showed the diffusion of Lemon oil into a room improved testscores more than any other oil. In addition to it’s mind-brightening qualities, it can also disinfectroom air and act as a natural deodorant. Lemon has been noted to support liver function, and is also commonlyused to assist in weight loss and cellulite reduction. In blends, lemon adds a pleasant top note, and can createa synergistic effect with other oils. Finally, Lemon oil is commonly used as both a fragrance and flavoringagent.

Oil #10: Clove Essential Oil

The power of Clove essential oil is noted upon the first sensing of the aroma – it is quite strong,sharp and earthy. Clove oil has been found to be the strongest anti-oxidant of any essential oil, and is acomponent of ‘longevity’ formulas. It is also an extremely potent antibacterial, effective againsta broader range of microbes than any other oil except perhaps Oregano – Clove oil has even been employedto sterilize surgical instruments. Clove also has analgesic properties, and can be used to temporarily reducethe pain of toothache. Clove oil (or ground cloves) is also a component of Dr. Huda Clark’s anti-parasiteprotocol, helping eliminate parasites from one’s digestive system. This is a very powerful oil whichshould be diluted to 1% or less for topical application.

So, there we have a possible ‘top ten’ essential oils for the home medicine chest, a selectionwith an extremely broad range of uses for common ailments seen in a family setting. It is important to notethat all essential oils are powerful, and they should be treated with caution and respect. Always refer toa trusted source before making specific applications of any oil, as many can be irritating or possibly toxicif used incorrectly.

Misty Rae Cech, ND is a naturopath practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She employs a broad array of natural therapies with her clients, including flower essences, essential oils, herbs and more. She is also the owner of http://www.ananda-aromatherapy.com.

Jin Shin Acutouch has been practiced for more than thousand years. In a person’s body there is flow of energy and it is known as “Prana in India’” and “Chi” in China. Acutouch revitalizes the body by making the flow of blood correct and removing the blockages.

Jin Shin Acutouch technique is almost the same as acupuncture but fingers are used to make the energy flow in a perfect rhythm and removing the blockages. There are 26 points in our body in the front and back portion. When these points are touched (no pressure) lightly the body gets revitalized. If you put high pressure then the particular place could bruise or you could get rashes, so it is advised to touch it gently. The touch makes the free flow of “Chi”. Acutouch has been widely popular in Japan and China. It is slowly making a name in the western world. Acutouch helps in treating various illness and pain. It also helps in relaxing the body and mind.

It helps in treating nearly 140 ailments like high blood pressure, stroke, paralysis etc. Acutouch can be tried on any body and it as such has no known side effects. Acutouch uses nature’s power to heal and control pain. It is one of the safest and natural ways to treat pain in the body.

Paul has been providing answers to lots of queries through his website on a wide variety of subjects ranging from satellite phones to acne. To learn more visit http://www.askaquery.com/Answers/qn485.html

Many keen snowboarders will shortly be trying to find their ski gear and scooting forth hunting for the largest snow conditions. And undoubtedly the affect of our carbon footprint will be virtually as far down the list of vacation musts as a xmas cracker after Christmas. Just last year, a late snowfall hit the tabloids and tourists were frightened about the smattering of snow melting almost as soon as they landed.

Holiday business Chalet 1802, located at the bottom of Mont Blanc in Chamonix Mont Blanc in the French Alps, is one of the first autonomous businesses to go carbon negative and afford skiers an environmentally friendly choice when reserving their skiing trip. Chalet 1802 proprietor GIOVANNA said: Last season was quite a shock with the hottest winter in 60 yrs in the French Alps. Snowboarding ski fields for example Flaine, Montgenevre and La Plagne suffered.It was temperate and the snow did not settle so a lot of the early season snowboarding season in the mountains was limited. We resolved to go carbon neutral to help preserve the skiing resort.

GIOVANNA said: We’re not attempting to dictate to punters but we believe it is crucial to grant the clients the alternative without augmenting the cost of the skiing holiday. If the client book with us and holidays in our skiing chalet they can further off set their carbon footprint and we absorb the other costs. Naturally we still have a sauna and a hot tub – guests wish for luxury but not at the expense of the alps mountains, so we considered methods of decreasing the affect of someone driving over here for a skiing holiday.”

Chalet 1802 have moreover partnered with group Climate Care, who deals with climate change by making C02 deductions on behalf of individuals and companies.

Once you’ve paid for your airline tickets to JFK and climbed aboard the plane you can head straight for New York. It’s a great place to visit at any time of the year because there’s always so much going on, and if you enjoy street festivals you won’t be disappointed.

There are literally dozens of events going on in the city with festivals celebrating Earth Awareness, music memorabilia, and art to name a few. They’re all free to attend which means you can dip in and out as many times as you like. The Earth Awareness event is great if you have children, you can just pack a picnic and spend the day listening to live bands as well as learning a few planet saving facts along the way. The children can get crafty using recycled materials, and learn about park wildlife too. It’s definitely one to look out for during the spring. If like me you’re a music lover then the Music Memorabilia Fair should be right up your street. You can spend hours browsing through LPs, 78s and CDs, and you may end up finding one or two rare items that you’ve been trying to (pardon the pun) track down for years. There’s something for all tastes too, with plenty of gospel, jazz, rock, soul, and even the big band sound to choose from. If you’re an art lover on the other hand you simply must visit the Outdoors Art Fair. It’s another great day out with exhibitions including oil paintings, pastels, watercolors, sculptures, and jewelry. Even if you’re not particularly artistic it’s great to be able to see what other people have created, and who knows it may even inspire you to try some of your own artwork.

If you’re not sure how to find your way around the city I’d suggest you pick up a New York Travel guide which will provide you with all the necessary streetmaps and directions. Once you’ve got a taste for street fairs you’ll want to keep going back for more, and they’re an excellent way of learning more about the city’s culture without costing you a cent.

What are IVAs (Individual Voluntary Arrangements)? Why are they relevant today?

Nearly half a year ago, the Governor of the Bank of England famously said that “the nice decade” was behind us. Then, in August, Chancellor Alistair Darling warned that we were facing “arguably the worst” economic times we’ve seen in 60 years.

At times like this, one thing’s pretty sure. Many households are going to find life a lot tougher, financially speaking. In particular, they’re going to find their disposable income’s a lot lower than it was last year – around £2,500 lower, according to comparison site uSwitch.

So where do IVAs fit in to the picture? How can an IVA help someone with too much debt, and too little money to service it?

In short, an IVA is a way to cope with overwhelming unsecured debts – without declaring bankruptcy. In the short term, an IVA can reduce the amount of money they’re paying to their debts each month, bringing it down to an affordable level. In the long term, an IVA can help them write off the debt they can’t afford.

An IVA is normally only appropriate for people who owe around £15,000 or more to three or more unsecured debts, and whose combined monthly repayments to those debts actually exceed their disposable income.

Basically, an IVA is a legally binding agreement between an individual and his / her creditors. If they can agree on a repayment plan, the individual will commit to spending a fixed period (most IVAs last 5 years) making fixed monthly payments, based on the maximum they can afford once they’ve taken all essential expenses into account. If they’re a homeowner, they may also be expected to free up some of the equity in their home towards the end of the IVA.

In return, the creditors will agree to accept those lower repayments, to freeze interest, to refrain from (further) legal action, and to write off any outstanding debt when the IVA has been successfully concluded.

At a time like this, with the cost of living rising and many people’s disposable incomes shrinking, an IVA can make all the difference, helping people bring their debt repayments back in line with their disposable income. After all, their monthly payments to the IVA are carefully calculated to leave them with enough money every month to pay for the essential things in life, from mortgage / rent payments and fuel bills to petrol and food.

Even more important – in the long run – each payment they make to their IVA takes them one month closer to the day they know they’ll be debt free.