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Top 10 Ways You Can Ruin Your Summer Vacation
Top 10 Reasons Not To Kill Your Boss
Top 10 Things Not To Do To Avoid Getting Beat Up By A Police Officer
Top 10 Superstitious Celebrities
Top 10 Reasons Why The “Apple” Is Rotten
World’s Top 10 Sites in Danger of Destruction
Top 10 Best Hollywood Sequels Ever Made
Top 10 Awesome Vending Machines
Top 10 Reasons To Make Your Own Baby Food
Top 10 August Events

Top 10 Ways You Can Ruin Your Summer Vacation

Posted: 09 Aug 2012 09:02 PM PDT

Top 10 Ways You Can Ruin Your Summer Vacation photo

Holidays are fun and wild for students on summer vacations. They attempt to do rash things that put themselves as well as others in danger. From drag racing to excessive drinking, I`ve seen it all in my 12 years working in a school environment. The goal of this article is to educate adolescents and teenagers on the necessity to stay safe and not to do things that could endanger their lives and the lives of others. As such, it will highlight 10 things that I`ve seen happen in hopes that it will prevent any further occurrences.

1. Assassin bugs:

Many teenagers travel to Mexico and Central and South America for their vacations. Many are not aware that there is such a thing as Assassins bug which transmits Chagas disease. This disease causes long term chronic problems that could cause serious cardiac and digestive issue. A notable example of someone who suffered from this was Charles Darwin. Speak to your doctor before traveling to those areas.

2. Staying Indoors:

Many students come back to school with the note that they sat in the home most of their summer either sleeping or playing video games. They usually do not regret that decision until winter comes and they realize that the hot weather was taken advantage of.

3. In Jail:

This would be the worst case scenario. I know a person I mentored who was apprehended by police for smoking pot. He told them to f*** off and spent a couple of nights in jail. No one would set the bail for him since he had a restraining order on his mother.

4. Racing:

A week before school began a couple of students decided to go for a midnight joyride. The driver of the car was not properly trained and stole the car from his parents who were sleeping in the house. While driving through the streets of Toronto at high speed, the driver crashed the car into a tree. 1 student was killed upon impact. My heart sank the day I got a call that one of my students died.

5. Wave Pools:

The summer is a perfect time to go to the pool and relax. However this fun is not for all students and in fact I`ve seen tragedy strike right before my eyes. A 13 year old teenager was bathing in a wave pool just north of Toronto. Suffered from heart problems, she sustained a heart attack inside the pool and drowned. The whole school community were in shock over the untimely death of a special person who brought one of the most significance gifts to life. Check with your doctor before deciding to do any rash activities this summer.

6. Walking barefoot outside:

A Canadian tourist was vacationing in Brazil and Argentina. She hardly wore slippers or shoes while walking outside. Little did she know that she was stepping on fire caterpillars that release toxins that cause internal bleeding and immense organ failure? Going untreated until she came back to Canada was something that cost her her life.

7. Drinking too much:

Excessive drinking is not something that anyone should try, especially when underage. They may find themselves in the hospital getting alcohol out of their system. Excessive drinking may also cause students to damage their liver which serves to detoxify the toxins inside alcohol. Watch an episode of Fresh Prince of BelAir where Carlton gets excessively drugged by Will and ends up in the hospital.

8. Bullying:

Sadly bullies do not take a summer vacation. School bullies enjoy their summer vacations taunting their victims in recreational centers, pools, playgrounds and in the mall. It is usually a scenario of the older kids vs. the younger kids.

9. Taking sleeping pills on long flights:

Never ask for someone`s sleeping pill to take. You may be sleeping through the plane ride, but may feel disoriented after. This may ruin your vacation, include for those who never took pills before. Interestingly enough someone I know took a pill as he boarded. When he had a stopover, he had to go through the gates and again wait until the next plane asked him to board. He missed the plane as he fell asleep in the gated area.

10. Working:

Have fun and don`t work too hard. Maybe take a vacation for one week or two, spend more time with family and enjoy life to the fullest with warmer weather.

Top 10 Ways You Can Ruin Your Summer Vacation photo

Top 10 Reasons Not To Kill Your Boss

Posted: 08 Aug 2012 09:03 PM PDT

Top 10 Reasons Not To Kill Your Boss photo

How many of us have been angry at our bosses? How many of us wanted to choke our bosses when they did something we hated? Murder is not the key and here are the reasons why.

The boss pays for your salary. The salary is what puts food on your table and a roof over your head. Even if it is a little, it is better than nothing. It is similar to the saying: do not bite the hand that feeds.

Repercussions: Do you really want to spend the rest of your life in jail? Premeditated murder is one crime that is scorned upon in Western cultures.

Penalties:

First Degree Murder carries up to 25 years jail

Second Degree Murder carries a sentence of life imprisonment. It carries a sentence between 10 to 25 years, based on the discretion of the judge.

Manslaughter: This does not carry an automatic sentence of life imprisonment. It carries usually up to 10 years.

I believe that there is always a reason for everything in life. If the two of you were put on earth to work together, it was meant to be. If you kill the boss, you will never understand what that meaning was in the first place.

Everyone is different; everyone has also a different character. You may not always agree on things, but that does not give you the right to kill your boss.

You are not the judge, jury and the executioner. You can never take law into your own hands, unless you are given that authority by someone with the authority. The choice of life and death remains in the hands of the supreme power.

What if the plan fails? Have any of you watched Horrible Bosses? You should watch this movie and see how things go wrong for 3 people who never planned nor thought about killing someone. When they do, their plans go down the drain a number of times.

There are more fascinating ways to tick off your boss. You can simply kill his/her ideas by saying you are busy. They are bound by the Department of Labour and/or the Ministry of Labour so they cannot reallyu fire you.

There are ways of getting back at the boss. Challenge the boss to something you are good at like a game of tennis or another sport. Beating your boss in that may lead you through avenues you never thought of.

It's more interesting to pursue this in a legal battle. Sue for harassment, call the ministry of labour, report them. Murder should be the last resort. There could have been so many ways the Horrible Bosses characters could have done it without incriminating themselves.

10.

There are always ways to get back at bosses. Look at Milton in The Office Space, he got what he wanted and all the money he wanted. I am sure he thought about killing the boss, but did not. Arson, however, is not the correct form of punishment.

Top 10 Reasons Not To Kill Your Boss photo

Top 10 Things Not To Do To Avoid Getting Beat Up By A Police Officer

Posted: 07 Aug 2012 09:03 PM PDT

Top 10 Things Not To Do To Avoid Getting Beat Up By A Police Officer photo

There are some things that you should not do to a police officer. These things have happened before and people have made mistakes, double crossing the officer. Be law abiding citizens and stay out of trouble. This is one advise everyone should be given.

1. Urinate:

One drug dealer was caught urinating on a police officer while the officer was trying to remove 89 bags of dope which were tied to his penis. The police offer saw a lot of things in his career as a cop but never like this. The criminal was Ray Woods. He was already pulled over before on a routine patrol for broken rear light and marijuana finding in the car.

2. Hurt them:

Do not try to hurt a police officer who is either arresting you or trying to apprehend you. You really do not want him to use a Taser or even a gun. In fact, the police officer may beat you up before carting you away to a jail cell.

3. Confuse him for the Village People:

This would be a great joke, but to a police officer this is no joke. He may think you're either drunk or high on something. The next thing you know you are on the ground being checked for everything you can ever imagine.

4. Report him/her:

If you got a ticket, never go report the police officer to his/her superior. You may have a better chance at winning a case if you never reported them. In fact, most police officers will not come to the courtroom for minor cases. But if you were a difficult one, causing too much headache, you may be out of luck. One of my friends did that. The police officer came gunning for her even harder.

5. Offer bribe:

Sorry guys, this does not work. You cannot bribe a police officer. In fact you may find yourself in trouble with the law and also on the ground with a foot on your body. Arrested definitely!

6. Run:

Don't run, just listen and follow instructions. Don't think that alcohol can outrun the police officer and his squad, helicopters and force. They will track you down like a hawk.

7. Yell:

Stay calm. Do not start yelling, it may not work in your defense. In fact, the police officer may remember you even more for being difficult and for not co-operating. The more you yell, the more you can get apprehended.

8. Harass

Harassment includes taunting. Never taunt a police officer as that may also not end well for you. Also do not come close to them, as they may fear for their life and go after the gun to stop you from coming any further.

9. Swear:

Definitely this will tick the police officer off. In actuality, this may even make the police officer retaliate. One of my mentees told the police officer the F word. He was tased and taken to the ground within seconds.

10. Come on to them:

Do not use your sexuality to try to get to police officers. In fact, you may look like you are soliciting the police officer.

Top 10 Things Not To Do To Avoid Getting Beat Up By A Police Officer photo

Top 10 Superstitious Celebrities

Posted: 06 Aug 2012 09:05 PM PDT

Top 10 Superstitious Celebrities photo

You are not the only one to believe in something and will do everything possible to prevent a bad occurrence from happening. Many stars are as superstitious. Some are really ridiculous, while others are preposterous. Others have truly understood the concept of superstitions and do it just for the heck of it.

So here is the list of 10 superstitious celebrities.

1. Meatloaf:

Nothing beats this star. Marvin Meatloaf Aday admitted that he as a large collection of teddy bears. He also travels with the two favourites for good luck. They make him feel good.

2. Lady Gaga:

There is always something about this singer and songwriter. She is an excellent role model who stands up to bullying and for minorities. In fact, she is known to speak her mind most of the time. She is superstitious about the 3 letter word we all have come to know as sex. She believes that someone can ruin his/her energy levels if they have sex with someone they do not care about.

3. Paris Hilton:

Hilton does what most people do. She knocks on wood when someone says something she does not want to happen. She also makes a wish at 11:11. I honestly believe the second part is a bit going overboard.

4. Jennifer Aniston:

This actress and daughter of Soap Vet John Aniston is superstitious when it comes to flying. When she walks onto the plane, she puts her right foot first and taps the outside of the plane. She believes that it brings her luck. What do you think? Have any of you ever done that?

5. Star Jones:

Many know Jones from The View. She is a television phenomenon everyone loves to watch. However, she makes this list as well. She's had a superstition she learned about from her grandmother. She never places her purse on the floor because it could cause you to have no money. Interesting….That probably has to do with dropping money on the floor and not taking care of your belongings.

6. Missy Elliot:

This singer and actress is against a black cat crossing one's path. She recommends that anyone who sees a black cat, should go home, even if they are going somewhere. Interestingly enough, this is a superstition only believed in United States and Europe. In Japan this is considered good luck.

7. Michael Jordan:

This is the man that defied rules of the games of Basketball. He wore black shoes every game when they only allowed white. He also wore his lucky North Carolina shorts underneath his Bull shorts. He was a champ, so maybe his superstitions were real.

8. Kristin Chenoweth:

Chenoweth has a fear of walking under ladders. This is a very common superstition that many believe in. It stipulates that it is bad luck and will cause something to be fallen on you. Another explanation has to do with life. In many religions the symbol of life is a triangle. When a ladder is against the wall, it forms a triangle. Anyone walking beneath the triangle disrupts life.

9. Emma Roberts:

This actress, model and singer also believes in the superstition behind ladders. She is the daughter of Eric Roberts and is best known for her role as Addie Singer in Unfabulous, a Nickelodeon television series.

10. Angela Kinsey:

Jennifer Aniston is not the only one to believe in superstitions about airplanes. This actress gives a plane a little pat before getting on. The actress is best known for her role of the uptight accountant Angela Martin on 0ffice.

Top 10 Reasons Why The “Apple” Is Rotten

Posted: 05 Aug 2012 09:04 PM PDT

Top 10 Reasons Why The “Apple” Is Rotten photo

Apple is an American multinational corporation that specializes in consumer electronics, computer software and personal computers. It is best known for hardware products such as MacIntosh, iPod, iPhone and the iPad. In over 10 countries, the company has 357 stores. It also has one of the largest online stores worldwide.

Overall, the company has the largest IPO companies in the world. It has a capitalization of over $150 billion. It is also worth more than Google and Microsoft combined and includes 60, 4000 permanent full-time employees. The annual sales total $65 billion, which grew to $108 billion in 2011.

With every company, there is a rot or Achilles heel. Let's take a look at what makes Apple Inc. a rotten apple.

1. Safari Updates:

There is nothing more rotten than a push that becomes a shove. In 2008, Apple did just that. It used auto-update service to distribute its Safari web browser to users. The users were prompted to make updates which included Safari. Digital Journal reports that this as a form of bad business; being sneaky and on the borderline of malware distribution tactics.

The software was not really an update for many users. In fact, it was newly installed software that was never on the computer before, adds John Lilly, Mozilla CEO. For him, a relationship must be built naturally and not by force.

Was Apple correct when it forced its users to download Safari? Vote now.

2. Sweatshops in China:

iPods are extremely expensive, especially when you compare it to other mp3 brands. You pay more than $200 to receive something that is an Apple product. One thing that many people are not aware of is that Apple has been manufacturing its iPod products in Chinese sweatshops for the last 6 years. In fact, they have failed to tackle the horrifying conditions at its supplier.

Workers continue to die and sustain injuries in accidents that could be easily prevented. Many of them are forced to work from morning to night for slave wages ($0.70/h) in dismaying conditions. New York Times was the first to report on this. It noted that Apple pledged to improve safety records and working practices. Things have yet to improve.

For the price we pay for Apple products, should we expect better conditions?

3. Suicide Rates:

Sweatshops are the least of their problems. In fact Apple has bigger fish to fry in China. During the launch of iPad in 2012, 150 Chinese Workers at Foxconn threatened to commit suicide by leaping off of their factory roof. In 2010, 18 workers threw themselves from the top of the company building, which resulted in 14 deaths. Foxconn installed safety nets in the factory and hired counsellors to help its workers.

4. Child Labour:

Like other computer manufacturers this comes as no news. Still I expect much better from a company that charges more than $900 for computers and $600 for mobile devices. In February of 2012, it was reported that child workers were indeed working at Foxconn, the distributor for Apple. During inspections, child laborers were hidden and moved to other departments. The students who work there are not working voluntarily; Chinese government requires schools to send their children to work factory labour as part of their internship. This was featured in the SACOM report in 2012.

5. Dump Polluted Waste & Toxic Metals:

In 2011, a Beijing environmental group called Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs reported that the company dumps toxic metals and polluted waste into communities around its factories. This, they report, threatens the communities' public health. The report was issued in August of 2011 in a 46 page paper.

Apple had already committed to being a green country. Ma Jun, the director of the group, stated that they now needed to fulfill their commitment and become responsible for their suppliers' pollution.

6. Misleading warranty:

A claim in Italy was made in December of 2011. Apple was fined $1.2 million (USD) by Italian Antitrust Authority for not properly informing its customers about the 2 year warranty service. This was a requirement under Italy's Consumer Code. The company reportedly disclosed only its 1 year warranty and wanted to sell an additional year to its customers.

7. Products overheat:

With the introduction of iPad HD into the market, consumers were excited to indulge in something new. However, criticism arose when the framerate dropped causing overheating problems. Consumers pay over $700 for a product that is too hot to hold. The heat coms from the lower left hand corner of the device. Apple denied these claims.

8. Expensive:

All these arguments lead me to ask a central question. Why are Apple products more expensive than Microsoft products? Why can I just not buy the Blackberry Playbook instead of the iPad? I stand to save at least $300. I also can get more GB for less money.

9. Monopoly:

Apple is now what Microsoft was in 1995. The question many scholars are now asking is whether Apple can go on to grow bigger without becoming anti-trust and monopolistic. The cut throat competition between them and Samsung is a perfect example of this. Apple is attempting to sue Samsung for copyright infringement when it could focus on developing newer and better technologies.

10. Overall Feel:

You get a good product like Apple but how good do you feel when you are using products created under such appalling conditions. Your first question would be: Why am I paying so much money? After doing research, the money apparently goes to developers who create the products. Should the money be distributed evenly? I'll let you decide.

More reads:

http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/252034/Apple_Accused_of_Bad_Business_Tactics_in_Distribution_of_Web_Browser

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2096551/Apple-shamed-Chinas-iPod-sweatshops-SIX-YEARS-expos.html

Top 10 Reasons Why The “Apple” Is Rotten photo

World’s Top 10 Sites in Danger of Destruction

Posted: 04 Aug 2012 09:01 PM PDT

World’s Top 10 Sites in Danger of Destruction photo

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is place of special cultural and physical importance. The site is often administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Programme. As of 2011, 935 sites are listed on the list of World Heritage Sites. Many of these sites are listed as in danger of becoming extinct. This article examines the sites that need further attention, whether they are or are not included in the list provided by UNESCO.

1. Dead Sea:

The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth. It is also known as the largest natural spa in the world. Everybody who goes to the region looks forward to floating in its salt and mineral rich waters.

Tourists & locals are not alone in their love for the Dead Sea. Aristotle, the Greek Philosopher, often applauded the sea's remarkable properties. Cleopatra praised its medicinal and cosmetic possibilities. The Nabateans extracted hundreds of tons of its bitumen, to be used for embalming mummies.

Now this sea that touched the hearts of millions is in danger of extinction. With the high demand of water, the Dead Sea has been drying up at a dramatic rate of 1 metre a year. BBC News once reported in August of 2001 that the sea was expected to disappear by 2050. This report comes after Environmentalists in Jordan offered a somber warning.

Things are not as bleak as they sound. In 2011, scientists have come up with a proposal to pump water from the Red Sea to the Dead Sea more than 110 miles away. An international consortium of researchers have weighed the impact of the million dollar plan. Only time will tell if this project will work.

2. Medieval Monuments in Kosovo:

Lack of protection by legal system and the political instability that ensues the country has caused major destruction to the Medieval Monuments in Kosovo. The site consists of 4 Serbian Orthodox Christian churches and monasteries. These churches are significant as they represent the fusion of the eastern Orthodox Byzantine and the western Romanesque ecclesiastical architecture. UNESCO has included it as part of its list of endangered sites in 2005.

3. Everglades National Park:

This tourist site is located at the tip of Florida in the United States. Better known as the river of grass flowing imperceptibly from the hinterland into the sea, it has a number of water habitats that make it a sanctuary for large number of birds and reptiles.

The area is quite significant for many reasons. The park is the largest designated sub-tropical wilderness reserve in North American continent. Its juncture, fresh and brackish water, shallow bays and deeper coastal waters further provide complex habitats with high diversity of flora and fauna.

Everglades is equally significant as it is a flat seabed that flooded at the end of the Ice Age. It also contains vast subtropical wetlands and coastal/marine ecosystems which include freshwater marshes, tropical hardwood hammocks and saltwater marshes.

The loss of habitat in the Everglades, alteration of water flow, pollution and human intervention has caused significant damage. 14 endangered species in the area, including the Tiger, are now threatened with extinction.

Hurricane Andrew in 1992 did not help. It caused massive destruction to southern Florida and south central Louisiana. Rain totaled 7 inches and was as high as 11.9 inches in Hammond, LA. Specifically it caused structural damages to the wetlands in Everglades National Park, damaging trees and destroying habitats.

4. Olympia, Greece:

Olympia, Greece is best known as the site of ancient Olympic Games. The ancient Olympic Games were held every 4 years and date back to 776 BC when Theodosius I abolished them as they were considered reminiscent of paganism.

The sanctuary includes a number of buildings in no specific order: temenos, Temple of Hera, Temple of Zeus, the Pelopion and the area of the alter where sacrifices were made.

Lately, the city has been ravaged by wildfires which were caused by rising temperatures. The many remnants of the city are in danger of destruction.

5. Great Pyramid of Giza:

What has this pyramid not survived? The Toronto Star reports that the site survived everything from sandstorms to the anger of kings and even wearing in time. Now after 4 millennia, the site is also endangered of extinction.

Interestingly enough, the pyramid were built as a tomb for the fourth dynasty Egyptian Pharoah Khufu. The pyramid weighs an estimate of 5.9 million tonnes, its thallium (internal hillock) is roughly 2, 500,000 m^3. It remains to this date the tallest man-made structure in the world.

From pollution to camel dung to manmade destruction, the Pyramids of Giza took a large hit. Now officials are forbidding people and tourists from riding their camels are around the pyramids.

6. Bam & its Cultural landscapes:

The 2003 earthquake in 2003 in Bam, Iran has caused severe damage to Bam and its cultural landscapes. 80% of the ancient citadel, Arg-e Bam in Bam now faces endangerment. However, President Khatami announced that it would be rebuilt. Only time will tell if this site can be preserved. I really hope things can be done as this site has a vast history, being built in 500 BC and used until 1850 A.D.

7. Rainforest of the Atsinanana:

The rainforests include 6 national parks which follow along a 1,6000 km strip on the eastern side of Madagascar. The national parks represent the relics of the rainforest which is critical to the survival of biodiversity in the country.

The site has been listed as a World Heritage Site in danger. This is mostly because of illegal logging and hunting of lemurs, which are rarely found in other parts of the world. The situation is no different than Amazon where hunters kill not only animals but native tribes who stand in their way.

8. Great Barrier Reef:

This is the most beautiful underwater wildlife you will ever see. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Australia. More significantly, it can be view from space. Things are looking bleak for the reefs within the last decades or so. The rise in temperatures and acidity has caused scientists to believe that the reefs will die in 20 years or less.

9. Zahara de la Sierra:

Zahara de la Sierra is a small Spanish town in the province of Cadiz. It is famous for Pueblos Blancos as its houses and buildings are surrounded by lush green fields and olive groves. It is a town most famous for dressing in white. This is probably because white symbolizes virginity of the nature. The combined forces of decree in rainfall and rise in temperatures led to a loss in wildlife and the greenery in the city.

10. Historic Town of Zabid:

This historic town in Yemen is in a deteriorating state and is poorly conserved. It has been listed on World Heritage's list of endangered sites since 2000. The city is significant as it was the capital of Yemen architecture, as well the site of a historical library containing countless of rare manuscripts and copies of Holy Quran. It also contains more than 86 mosques and Islamic schools, many dating back to the first decade of the first century of Hijra.

Sources:

http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/

http://www.thestar.com/news/article/208677–pyramids-of-giza-in-peril

World’s Top 10 Sites in Danger of Destruction photo

Top 10 Best Hollywood Sequels Ever Made

Posted: 03 Aug 2012 09:05 PM PDT

Top 10 Best Hollywood Sequels Ever Made photo

It's raining sequels in Hollywood! They say it is not good to gild a lily but in some cases, it is a great thing. Here is a look at my pick of the Top 10 Best Hollywood Sequels Ever Made.

1. The Dark Knight

Drum Roll! How can it not be The Dark Knight? Christopher Nolan the genius gave us a brilliant start with Batman Begins but this movie takes the legend of Batman to a whole new, unimaginable level. Heath Ledger as the Joker, Christian Bale as a tormented Batman and amazing direction and stunts makes this my pick for the best sequel of all times.

2. The Godfather Part II

This 1974 gangster movie needs absolutely no introduction. The winner of six Oscars including Best Picture, The Godfather raised the levels of movie making forever. The rise of the powerful Corleone made for riveting movie watching and we've been hooked ever since.

3. Rocky II

Firmly establishing Sylvester Stallone as an action here, Rocky II reintroduced us to our love affair with the beloved Rocky Balboa. His journey to success and the impact it had on his life and relationships made for compelling viewing as we walked along this path with him.

4. Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back

George Lucas had already created a cult series in the Star Wars saga and he added to that status with this movie that became one of the most highly rated films of all time. It earned over $500 million worldwide and the world has not stopped talking about this space opera classic ever since.

5. Terminator 2: Judgment Day

You might remember this film more for T-100, the cool CGI villain, played by Robert Patrick than for Arnold Schwarzenegger's heroics. But the movie also speaks of the sheer courage in the line of fire of Sarah Connor whose fear audiences everywhere connected to and whose bravery they applauded.

6. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

J.R.R. Tolkien's opus, The Lord of the Rings was made into a massively successful movie and The Two Towers followed suit. Gollum's character is compelling and you forget that he is not a real person as you are drawn into his deeply conflicted, complicated life. Reviews are mixed on the adaptation of book to screen but the fact remains that it extended the cult status of this beloved trilogy and at $900 million worldwide, surpassed its predecessor as well.

7. Toy Story 2

This beloved animation film captured the hearts and minds of movie goers everywhere. The CGI features were a class apart from anything else and the story further strengthened our bonds with the motley bunch of toys. Touching on themes of friendship and loss, this movie is a chapter, more than a sequel and went a far way in establishing Pixar's formidable reputation.

8. The Bourne Supremacy

Continuing with the success of The Bourne Identity, this movie was critically acclaimed and proved its mettle in the box office as well. We were intrigued by the adventures of Robert Ludlum's Jason Bourne and thrilled as he triumphs over one roadblock after another.

9. Aliens

No list of sequels can afford to ignore Aliens. This 1986 sci-fi film directed by James Cameron of Titanic and Avatar fame came a whopping 57 years post the first movie, Aliens of 1979. Apart from establishing Cameron's reputation as a formidable talent, the movie is also held up as a standard to which other movies of this genre are compared. Over $130 million worldwide and seven Oscar nominations made this movie even more of a smash hit.

10. Superman II

This was a movie that humanized the man of steel as he explored his feelings for Lois Lane and came to terms with who he truly was. You will also appreciate the evil genius of General Zod played by a brilliant Terence Stamp who makes for a worthy opponent. Superman II is a beloved comic book that became an inspired movie with two directors, four villains and a very conflicted superhero, played by a superlative Christopher Reeves.

This is a guest post by Mark Bennett of OnlineComcast.com, a site that offers savings and current information on comcast internet

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Top 10 Best Hollywood Sequels Ever Made photo

Top 10 Awesome Vending Machines

Posted: 02 Aug 2012 09:05 PM PDT

Top 10 Awesome Vending Machines photo

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalleboo/

When you think of vending machines you think of a packet of crisps or a cool drink, but many vending machine owners have taken these handy on the go machines to the extreme.

1. Live Crab Anyone?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGH6hWth6Vo

In a China subway station you will find the strangest vending machine offering live crab along with vinegar enabling commuters to enjoy seafood on the go. The interesting fact about this machine is that it is selling over two hundred live crabs each day.

2. Need to Hire a Bicycle?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sV2J3BmqI1Q

If you're in the Netherlands and want to hire a bicycle for a day, then you can head to bicycle vending machines. These vending machines were introduced in 2005 enabling people to rent a bicycle at anytime from anywhere, all you have to do when you are finished is return the bicycle to the nearest bicycle vending machine. The bicycles do have chips, so they can be tracked, a handy feature if you forget where you left it.

3. Gold on the Go

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ApExVPF2OU

When staying at a hotel in Abu Dhabi, it's an inconvenience to go down to the bank to buy your gold bars and coins. Here you can get them out of a vending machine. The machine offers up to date gold prices for the user's convenience.

4. Feeling a Little Angry?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3a2YkWk75s

Had a frustrating day at work or an argument with a loved one and need to vent some of that anger? You can now head to the nearest anger release vending machine where you pop a coin in, choose your china and watch as it releases smashing to the bottom and leaving you feeling much better.

5. Autowed

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hs4BRzVV5iM

While a novelty vending machine, with Autowed you can enjoy audio prompts, music, rings and a personalised certificate.

6. Flat Shoes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMTs_qNzSJQ

Two British companies are targeting club goers with their flat shoe vending machine ideas. A night of dancing in heels can leave any woman in agony, now she can buy some biodegradable ballet shoes with their own little matching bag, allowing her to dance the night away and take her new shoes home with her.

7. Smart Car Vending Machine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7L8dIDBPbo

Only in Japan can you find something as awesome as a smart car vending machine. While this is a concept idea, the machine has a full sized Smart Car with the choice of carbio or coupe.

8. Hair Straightening Machine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zinHK92uolQ

If your hair is getting a little wild while you are out on the town, don't despair you can use a hair straightening vending machine. Pop your coins in for the time you need the straightener for and get perfect looking locks.

9. Motorola Vending Machine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxkod80F1qo

Motorola has been using vending machines since 2006 selling phones, Bluetooth headsets and chargers on the go. Need a phone fast? Just pop along to your closest Motorola vending machine.

10. Phone Chargers On the Move

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcZ3Ew_rCJY

There is nothing worse than your mobile phone going flat while you are out, but there is a solution. Phone Charger vending machines enable you to recharge your mobile phone whatever phone you have. Pop your money in and let the phone charge up before heading off again.

This top ten was brought to you by Alton Towers Breaks

– we’re always about the wonders that come out of the machine on the train station platform (but maybe that’s just us!).

Top 10 Reasons To Make Your Own Baby Food

Posted: 01 Aug 2012 09:02 PM PDT

Top 10 Reasons To Make Your Own Baby Food photo

When you have just a few kitchen tools, such as a steamer and a blender, the sky is the limit when it comes to making your own baby food. Armed with just a few simple kitchen utensils you can produce a medley of tasty, nutritious and cost effective baby food. Heck, even with a fork you can make a delicious concoction for your tiny tot. Why should you bother? Below is a list of points to consider that would make you a believer.

1. You control the ingredients

Yes, you are in control. When you know exactly what went into your baby's food, it can give you that peace of mind about what your baby eats. As long as you plan out your menu and make sure your baby gets adequate nutrients and calories, you can let your imagination run wild. Just remember to consult your physician and baby food guides to make sure you are on the right track.

2. Fresh

When you use fresh ingredients, you end up with food that is higher in enzymes and vitamins. This means that your baby is going to have better digestion and that little tummy is going to thank you! A jar of yams and carrots just doesn't taste or smell the same way home made does, as it has been processed to sit on that shelf. Have you ever speculated why some baby food has an expiration date of a year or more? When it comes to homemade, fresh is best!

3. Taste and smell

Doesn't your baby deserve a great tasting meal? Some of the commercially available baby food just doesn't taste or smell that great. Do your baby a favor, and try some tasty options. Those peas and carrots can be blended with organic milk, and those peaches can be creamed with a bit of yogurt and a dash of cinnamon. Variety is also good to make sure your baby develops those tiny taste buds. Try a taste test, and smell your home made food, to make sure it has the right consistency and texture.

4. Faster and easier

Well, you may think that driving to the store, packing your shopping cart and standing for hours in that endless checkout line may be the smarter and faster option. However, it doesn’t have to be complicated, and you can whip up something for your baby in minutes. It does require some shopping ahead, and careful menu planning; however with practice you will find this to be a fast and easy way to feed your little one.

5. No added chemicals of preservatives

Homemade is pure, wholesome nutrition which contains only what you have added. Some store bought food contains additives and fillers that aren't needed for a baby's nutrition. These chemicals could range from added sugar and salt to preservatives, as well as taste and color enhancers. Some of the nutrients and vitamins are also lost in the commercial process and are often added artificially at the end of the process. When you cook your own food at home from fresh ingredients you can maximize nutrition as well as great taste and color.

6. Minimize nitrate and pesticide exposure

Going with organic, home grown or local, pesticide free produce means your baby has the needed building blocks to grow into a healthy adult. To make sure you minimize your baby's nitrate exposure you can test your water, and try using fresh vegetables as soon as you get them into your kitchen (as nitrate concentration increases over time). Using frozen vegetables is another option. If you do buy commercial, baby food companies do test their product and most store bought brands should have a safe level of these chemicals. Finally, read labels as organic vegetables tend to have less nitrates and pesticides.

7. Nutritious

Using fresh ingredients, makes sure that what you make is nutritious. You can also add in some extra virgin olive oil, flax seed oil or coconut oil for that extra boost. There are many options to make sure you maximize the nutrient content of your food so that your baby gets everything she needs. If you start out with fresh nutritious food, your tot would be more open to try a variety of fresh foods when she grows up.

8. Organic and natural

Babies consume more vegetables and fruit than adults, and thus end up taking in more pesticides per pound of weight than adults. Organic foods tend to have less chemicals and pesticides, and you can select from organic chicken, milk and eggs, to fruits and vegetables. According to US standards, organic foods are not genetically modified (GMO), which some may argue is another benefit of going organic. One of my favorite recipes is to steam several organic fruits and vegies, and put them through a blender with organic goat milk.

9. Environmentally friendly

You can make food from locally grown produce, thus supporting your community and the local farmer. Another benefit is that making your own baby food requires no extra packaging to dispose of. Just think about it, no need to purchase food in jars, cans and plastic containers. Not only do you save the environment, you are able to reuse and recycle right in your own kitchen.

10. Cost effective

One of the most important issues is cost. Making your own baby food can give you a great bang for your buck. Should a tiny jar of peas cost you a dollar or more? Have you wondered how many peas and carrots you can make at home when you use similar ingredients in your fridge and freezer for the same amount of money? You can even make a bit extra and freeze for when you are in a crunch.

By Alina R.

Top 10 Reasons To Make Your Own Baby Food photo

Top 10 August Events

Posted: 31 Jul 2012 09:03 PM PDT

Top 10 August Events photo

August is an eventful month of the year. There are specific events which occurred which deserve mention. Here they are, raise your hand if you recognize 1 or 2.

1. August 1, 1800:

The final act of Acts of Union of 1800 was adopted. The Kingdom of Great Britain merged with the Kingdom of Ireland. As of this date, it was known as the Kingdoms of Great Britain and Ireland. A new flag was created, which is still used by Great Britain.

2. August 1, 1914:

World War I begins. Germany declares war on Russia, who supports Serbia in its fight against Austria who is siding with Germany. The Alliance system crumbles.

3. August 1, 1944:

Warsaw Uprising occurs in the Nazi occupied territory. It was operated by the Polish resistance army which sought to get rid of the Nazis. This was happening at the same time as the Red Army was approaching the eastern suburbs of the city of Warsaw.

4. August 5, 1962:

Nelson Mandela is jailed for 28 years. He would not be released until 1990. His imprisonment was in response to his activism against the apartheid in South Africa. In 1944 he joined the African National Congress (ANC) which challenged the government's apartheid policies. He was arrested in 1955 for treason but was released after trial had ended in 1961. After forming the military wing of ANC, he was rearrested and imprisoned.

5. August 6, 1945:

Hiroshima is devastated by the dropping of the nuclear bomb by the United States. 90,000 people had died as a result.

6. August 9, 1945

The United States drops the Atomic bomb on Nagasaki. 70,000 people were killed as a result and 74, 909 were injured. This was the second of two bombs dropped in Japan.

7. August 14, 1893:

Motor vehicle registration is introduced. The first country to adopt it is France. License plates are now widely used by countries around the world. We all knew that they existed, but many of us never knew the origins.

8. August 17, 1915:

Leo Frank is lynched and hanged for the murder of his 13 year old factory worker. Frank was Jewish and this sparked a wave of anti-Semitic in the United States, as a result. Alonzo Man, who initially reported Frank, took back his statement 70 years later. The murder is still a mystery today.

9. August 27, 1927:

5 Canadian women, including the famous Nelly McLung, created a petition to the Supreme Court in the famous Persons Case. They inquired about the term persons and whether it included women. Women were allowed to work during WWI, but had to retreat when the men came back from war.