Friday, August 22, 2008
Save Gas by filling up in the morning? .....read on
Some people say it's better to buy your gasoline first thing in the morning, rather than in the heat of the day. That's because gasoline, like all liquids, expands when heated. So, according to this advice, gasoline will be denser in the cool of early morning, meaning you'll get more energy per gallon than later in the day.
The basic facts are correct, but the advice is not. Gasoline does expand and contract a little depending on its temperature. When gasoline rises from 60 to 75 degrees F, for instance, it increases in volume by 1 percent while the energy content remains the same.
But filling stations typically store their gasoline in underground tanks, where the temperature variation during the day is much less than in the air above. The result is that the temperature of the gasoline coming out of the fuel nozzle varies very little, if at all, during any 24-hour stretch at any particular station.
Craig Eerkes
The basic facts are correct, but the advice is not. Gasoline does expand and contract a little depending on its temperature. When gasoline rises from 60 to 75 degrees F, for instance, it increases in volume by 1 percent while the energy content remains the same.
But filling stations typically store their gasoline in underground tanks, where the temperature variation during the day is much less than in the air above. The result is that the temperature of the gasoline coming out of the fuel nozzle varies very little, if at all, during any 24-hour stretch at any particular station.
Craig Eerkes
Monday, August 18, 2008
Credit card scam
New Credit Card Scam
Snopes.com says this is true. See this site - http://www.snopes.com/crime/warnings/creditcard.asp
This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want.
Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.
One of our employees was called on Wednesday from 'VISA', and I was called on Thursday from 'Master Card'. The scam works like this: Caller: 'This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This wo uld be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona ?'
When you say 'No', the caller continues with, 'Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?'
You say 'yes'. The caller continues - 'I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800- VISA) and ask for Security.'
You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. 'Do you need me to read it again?'
Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works. The caller then says, 'I need to verify you are in possession of your card'. He'll ask you to 'turn your card over and look for some numbers'. There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3=2 0numbers, he'll say, 'That is corre ct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?' After you say No, the caller then thanks you and states, 'Don't hesitate to call back if you do, and hangs up.
You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card.
Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card Don't give it to them. Instead, tel l them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a 'Jason Richardson of Master Card' with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening
Snopes.com says this is true. See this site - http://www.snopes.com/crime/warnings/creditcard.asp
This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want.
Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.
One of our employees was called on Wednesday from 'VISA', and I was called on Thursday from 'Master Card'. The scam works like this: Caller: 'This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This wo uld be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona ?'
When you say 'No', the caller continues with, 'Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?'
You say 'yes'. The caller continues - 'I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800- VISA) and ask for Security.'
You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. 'Do you need me to read it again?'
Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works. The caller then says, 'I need to verify you are in possession of your card'. He'll ask you to 'turn your card over and look for some numbers'. There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3=2 0numbers, he'll say, 'That is corre ct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?' After you say No, the caller then thanks you and states, 'Don't hesitate to call back if you do, and hangs up.
You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card.
Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card Don't give it to them. Instead, tel l them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a 'Jason Richardson of Master Card' with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Save without Sacrifice
There's no question that saving for the future is critical. While some people save for retirement or to support their children, others seek a vacation or a down payment on a home. Whatever the case, putting income aside is part of life - and when it comes to saving, the sooner you start, the bigger the payoff.
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But even if you have a specific goal in mind - for example, digging yourself out of debt - being a penny-pincher just isn't fun. Fattening your bank account may be a priority, but so is enjoying life. And although some people equate saving money with social suicide, a healthy bank account doesn't have to mean eliminating social engagements. Realistically, a "no expenses" diet is impossible unless you're a hermit - and that's why you should focus on slashing costs where you can instead of cutting yourself off completely.
Let's take a look at a four things you can do to save like Scrooge, but without all the grumpy side effects.
1. Rethink the Luxuries
Our consumer culture is replete with new technologies and endless competition, which means nifty gadgets and superfluous luxuries have become par for the course. We're constantly bombarded with appeals to take part in the social ritual of buying products that look tempting, no matter how frivolous or unnecessary they may be. As for what we do need, advertisers are adept at selling consumers on cool-looking, costly brands, when their lesser-known, cheaper counterparts are just as good.
Of course, it's the buyer's prerogative to choose: you can go with the latest MP3 player, complete with video, email and color-coordinating accessories, or you can pick a basic, less expensive model - it might not be as fancy, but you still get music, right? Why not save your extra dollars for something that really counts?
Before you reach for your wallet, ask yourself whether the purchase is a need or a want.If it's a want, determine whether it's worth it: in the long run, would you rather have the latest iPod - and let's face it, you mostly want it because of the hype - or the peace of mind in knowing you've delayed gratification in order to afford something more meaningful? Apply this principle to every retail temptation you're faced with and you'll avoid needlessly dumping your money.
2. Surf and Save
The stereotypical clip-and-save coupon is time-consuming and limited to groceries and bargains-of-the-week, but today's e-coupons are just a mouse click away. Before planning your next night out or mini-vacation, take a minute to surf these free websites where you'll save a pretty penny:
StubHub. Saving is no fun when you're missing your favorite events. This site (www.stubhub.com), which allows you to buy tickets directly from individuals, is perfect for finding discounted tickets to your favorite band or play.
Airfare Watchdog. As soon as you've planned a trip, register at www.airfarewatchdog.com. The site tracks fares for all major airlines and will send you an email alert when cheap tickets to your destination pop up.
Cellfire. Forget the scissors; next time you want a night on the town, log on to www.cellfire.com, enter in your postal code, and browse hundreds of online coupons for stores and restaurants. Then just download the one you want to your cell phone and show it to the venue's cashier.
3. The Vice-A-Day Deal
We've all heard that the best way to save is to curtail extraneous spending - bring lunch from home, watch movies on TV and lose the daily latte. But much the same way that cutting all fun food out of your life probably isn't the best way to diet, a bare-bones approach to saving likely won't last, either - and you'll be miserable to boot.
So instead of depriving yourself of spending money on anything, ever, try easing back: indulge in a vice a day, whether a morning cappuccino, lunch with friends, or a video rental. Not only will you save a ton by allowing just one daily extravagance, you'll appreciate the treat that much more. Take the money you would normally spend on the extra indulgences and put it into your savings account. You probably won't miss the extra dollars, but by the end of the year, you'll be rewarded with a significantly stacked bank account.
4. Trim Housing Costs
Bills are a fact of life, but that doesn't mean you can't reduce them. All it takes is a few household tweaks that can end up saving you hundreds of dollars every year.
When it comes to utilities, shop around: it's a consumer-driven marketplace and utility companies have to compete just like every other industry. Switch to a company that offers a low-cost plan that works with your lifestyle.
To avoid paying for "phantom loads", the small amount of electricity that many appliances consume even when you think they're off, take pains to unplug all appliances and electronics that aren't in use. That includes anything from cell phone chargers to your computer, DVD player and video game console.
Also, moving your thermostat a few notches creates a barely noticeable difference in temperature, but can make a significant dent in your monthly utility payments.
Another simple way to save is to install eco-friendly devices in your home, like low-flow shower heads and energy-saving appliances. With sustainability at the forefront of the social agenda, it's easier than ever to find green appliances at a low cost, and these switches will amount to a hefty reduction in your bills by year's end. And while you're giving your home an energy makeover, exchange all those incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs; they use 75% less energy and have a much longer lifespan.
Start Today for Tomorrow's Savings
Whatever your financial goals, it's best to tailor spending habits to your individual lifestyle. Decide what can be reasonably cut from your budget: if you can live without a morning cup of java, for example, forgo it. If not, pack your lunch instead of buying it, or frequent the video store instead of the theater. And there's no need to pass up a social life when there's plenty of entertainment that costs nothing: bike rides, beach days, picnics in the park, even museums and art galleries. Get out there, explore your city, have fun with your friends and don't ever feel the need to sacrifice your life for your savings.
ADVERTISEMENT
But even if you have a specific goal in mind - for example, digging yourself out of debt - being a penny-pincher just isn't fun. Fattening your bank account may be a priority, but so is enjoying life. And although some people equate saving money with social suicide, a healthy bank account doesn't have to mean eliminating social engagements. Realistically, a "no expenses" diet is impossible unless you're a hermit - and that's why you should focus on slashing costs where you can instead of cutting yourself off completely.
Let's take a look at a four things you can do to save like Scrooge, but without all the grumpy side effects.
1. Rethink the Luxuries
Our consumer culture is replete with new technologies and endless competition, which means nifty gadgets and superfluous luxuries have become par for the course. We're constantly bombarded with appeals to take part in the social ritual of buying products that look tempting, no matter how frivolous or unnecessary they may be. As for what we do need, advertisers are adept at selling consumers on cool-looking, costly brands, when their lesser-known, cheaper counterparts are just as good.
Of course, it's the buyer's prerogative to choose: you can go with the latest MP3 player, complete with video, email and color-coordinating accessories, or you can pick a basic, less expensive model - it might not be as fancy, but you still get music, right? Why not save your extra dollars for something that really counts?
Before you reach for your wallet, ask yourself whether the purchase is a need or a want.If it's a want, determine whether it's worth it: in the long run, would you rather have the latest iPod - and let's face it, you mostly want it because of the hype - or the peace of mind in knowing you've delayed gratification in order to afford something more meaningful? Apply this principle to every retail temptation you're faced with and you'll avoid needlessly dumping your money.
2. Surf and Save
The stereotypical clip-and-save coupon is time-consuming and limited to groceries and bargains-of-the-week, but today's e-coupons are just a mouse click away. Before planning your next night out or mini-vacation, take a minute to surf these free websites where you'll save a pretty penny:
StubHub. Saving is no fun when you're missing your favorite events. This site (www.stubhub.com), which allows you to buy tickets directly from individuals, is perfect for finding discounted tickets to your favorite band or play.
Airfare Watchdog. As soon as you've planned a trip, register at www.airfarewatchdog.com. The site tracks fares for all major airlines and will send you an email alert when cheap tickets to your destination pop up.
Cellfire. Forget the scissors; next time you want a night on the town, log on to www.cellfire.com, enter in your postal code, and browse hundreds of online coupons for stores and restaurants. Then just download the one you want to your cell phone and show it to the venue's cashier.
3. The Vice-A-Day Deal
We've all heard that the best way to save is to curtail extraneous spending - bring lunch from home, watch movies on TV and lose the daily latte. But much the same way that cutting all fun food out of your life probably isn't the best way to diet, a bare-bones approach to saving likely won't last, either - and you'll be miserable to boot.
So instead of depriving yourself of spending money on anything, ever, try easing back: indulge in a vice a day, whether a morning cappuccino, lunch with friends, or a video rental. Not only will you save a ton by allowing just one daily extravagance, you'll appreciate the treat that much more. Take the money you would normally spend on the extra indulgences and put it into your savings account. You probably won't miss the extra dollars, but by the end of the year, you'll be rewarded with a significantly stacked bank account.
4. Trim Housing Costs
Bills are a fact of life, but that doesn't mean you can't reduce them. All it takes is a few household tweaks that can end up saving you hundreds of dollars every year.
When it comes to utilities, shop around: it's a consumer-driven marketplace and utility companies have to compete just like every other industry. Switch to a company that offers a low-cost plan that works with your lifestyle.
To avoid paying for "phantom loads", the small amount of electricity that many appliances consume even when you think they're off, take pains to unplug all appliances and electronics that aren't in use. That includes anything from cell phone chargers to your computer, DVD player and video game console.
Also, moving your thermostat a few notches creates a barely noticeable difference in temperature, but can make a significant dent in your monthly utility payments.
Another simple way to save is to install eco-friendly devices in your home, like low-flow shower heads and energy-saving appliances. With sustainability at the forefront of the social agenda, it's easier than ever to find green appliances at a low cost, and these switches will amount to a hefty reduction in your bills by year's end. And while you're giving your home an energy makeover, exchange all those incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs; they use 75% less energy and have a much longer lifespan.
Start Today for Tomorrow's Savings
Whatever your financial goals, it's best to tailor spending habits to your individual lifestyle. Decide what can be reasonably cut from your budget: if you can live without a morning cup of java, for example, forgo it. If not, pack your lunch instead of buying it, or frequent the video store instead of the theater. And there's no need to pass up a social life when there's plenty of entertainment that costs nothing: bike rides, beach days, picnics in the park, even museums and art galleries. Get out there, explore your city, have fun with your friends and don't ever feel the need to sacrifice your life for your savings.
Moon's High School Photo & Scott Baio...The same person?...Hey Charles in Charge!!!
Click Here for "Charge in Charge Theme" song
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www.mooninthemorning1049@yahoo.com
Monday, August 11, 2008
11 to avoid arguements
Many disagreements are petty, and though some may signal a larger problem (e.g. fighting over what time dinner is served -- which at a deeper level, may mean a couple is mired deep in major control issues), there are those disagreements that can be prevented altogether or "sidestepped."
I offer these tips that could help you stave off friction that you and your mate could do without:
1. Don't taunt your mate.
Avoid the temptation to do or say those things that you know irritate your mate.
Avoid the temptation to do or say those things that you know irritate your mate. This includes constant teasing, ridicule, and gestures that send your mate into a tizzy or rage. Also, avoid the body-language "comments" ranging from rolling your eyes to smirking sarcastically.
2. Change the subject. If it appears you're going down that familiar trail of bickering, ambush the conversation by jumping in with a comment on a more pleasant topic.
3. Keep to your agreements. If you say you will be on time or pick up your dirty socks, then do it. Flaking on a small agreement can escalate into something bigger. Making agreements and not keeping them -- minor or major -- can set the stage for constant arguing, and no couple needs that.
4. Hold your tongue. Though you may want to blurt out a criticism or a snide remark, restrain yourself. When you decide to keep some remarks to yourself, you may avoid petty arguments altogether. Remember that old adage: "If you can't say anything nice..."
5. Don't engage. Another famous saying: "It takes two to tango." If you refuse to play the bickering game when your mate starts in, he/she will have to look elsewhere to direct his/her jabs.
6. Forget about being right. It is oh-so tempting to want to climb all over your mate when he/she does not live up to his/her minor promises (like not getting your car washed yesterday when he/she promised). Yes, you're right: He/she is wrong, but is it worth getting into a huff about? Granted, it's irritating to count on someone for something and not have them come through, but save the "I'm right and you're wrong" for the big stuff, like when your mate says he/she will make a commitment to stop swearing in front of your parents and continues to do so.
7. Forget the "tit for tat." It's a natural response to want to get even with those who hurt your feelings or make you mad, but what does that do for your relationship? When the sun sets, wouldn't you rather snuggle up and watch it together than sulk in different rooms? There is never any point in leveling the playing field.
8. If it's not a deal-breaker, let it go. Sometimes all of us get mired in the petty things, when it is far better to roll with them. As you begin to partake in a petty argument, ask yourself whether what you're fighting over is something that could cause the demise of your relationship. If the answer is "no," then go with the flow.
9. Find another outlet for venting. Many petty arguments are a result of one person unloading on another because he/she has had a bad day. Take up boxing, swing that racket extra hard on the tennis court, get on the treadmill, run like Forrest Gump, but do not take out your bad day on your mate by picking a fight over nothing. Direct your frustration elsewhere.
10. Be prepared. If your mate gets lost every time he/she gets behind the wheel, find your destination in Yahoo! Local ahead of time. When your mate starts to complain that he/she cannot find the way, don't nag. Slide the directions over to your mate or read them off nicely.
11. Ply your sense of humor.
Nothing diffuses a petty argument faster than humor.
Nothing diffuses a petty argument faster than humor. Make light of the pettiness; you will find the absurdity of what you're fighting over amusing. Humor is essential in any relationship. But, don't use humor -- or what you perceive as humorous -- to de-value what your mate is feeling.
Arguing over petty matters can set the stage for chronic fighting, which is exhausting. That is not to suggest that you should roll over and go with the flow all of the time. Should you give up your "self" in the process of trying to appease your mate, you can easily create even greater damage to the relationship because resentments build up over time. If the petty arguments are chronic, talk them through, or get help from a professional who can help the two of you negotiate your differences. Too much arguing or too much resentment can lead to a breakup because most people will not stay in a relationship where there is constant discord. It is best to learn to delineate the trivial differences from the big ones so that you do not set the stage for letting your differences -- large or small -- split you apart.
I offer these tips that could help you stave off friction that you and your mate could do without:
1. Don't taunt your mate.
Avoid the temptation to do or say those things that you know irritate your mate.
Avoid the temptation to do or say those things that you know irritate your mate. This includes constant teasing, ridicule, and gestures that send your mate into a tizzy or rage. Also, avoid the body-language "comments" ranging from rolling your eyes to smirking sarcastically.
2. Change the subject. If it appears you're going down that familiar trail of bickering, ambush the conversation by jumping in with a comment on a more pleasant topic.
3. Keep to your agreements. If you say you will be on time or pick up your dirty socks, then do it. Flaking on a small agreement can escalate into something bigger. Making agreements and not keeping them -- minor or major -- can set the stage for constant arguing, and no couple needs that.
4. Hold your tongue. Though you may want to blurt out a criticism or a snide remark, restrain yourself. When you decide to keep some remarks to yourself, you may avoid petty arguments altogether. Remember that old adage: "If you can't say anything nice..."
5. Don't engage. Another famous saying: "It takes two to tango." If you refuse to play the bickering game when your mate starts in, he/she will have to look elsewhere to direct his/her jabs.
6. Forget about being right. It is oh-so tempting to want to climb all over your mate when he/she does not live up to his/her minor promises (like not getting your car washed yesterday when he/she promised). Yes, you're right: He/she is wrong, but is it worth getting into a huff about? Granted, it's irritating to count on someone for something and not have them come through, but save the "I'm right and you're wrong" for the big stuff, like when your mate says he/she will make a commitment to stop swearing in front of your parents and continues to do so.
7. Forget the "tit for tat." It's a natural response to want to get even with those who hurt your feelings or make you mad, but what does that do for your relationship? When the sun sets, wouldn't you rather snuggle up and watch it together than sulk in different rooms? There is never any point in leveling the playing field.
8. If it's not a deal-breaker, let it go. Sometimes all of us get mired in the petty things, when it is far better to roll with them. As you begin to partake in a petty argument, ask yourself whether what you're fighting over is something that could cause the demise of your relationship. If the answer is "no," then go with the flow.
9. Find another outlet for venting. Many petty arguments are a result of one person unloading on another because he/she has had a bad day. Take up boxing, swing that racket extra hard on the tennis court, get on the treadmill, run like Forrest Gump, but do not take out your bad day on your mate by picking a fight over nothing. Direct your frustration elsewhere.
10. Be prepared. If your mate gets lost every time he/she gets behind the wheel, find your destination in Yahoo! Local ahead of time. When your mate starts to complain that he/she cannot find the way, don't nag. Slide the directions over to your mate or read them off nicely.
11. Ply your sense of humor.
Nothing diffuses a petty argument faster than humor.
Nothing diffuses a petty argument faster than humor. Make light of the pettiness; you will find the absurdity of what you're fighting over amusing. Humor is essential in any relationship. But, don't use humor -- or what you perceive as humorous -- to de-value what your mate is feeling.
Arguing over petty matters can set the stage for chronic fighting, which is exhausting. That is not to suggest that you should roll over and go with the flow all of the time. Should you give up your "self" in the process of trying to appease your mate, you can easily create even greater damage to the relationship because resentments build up over time. If the petty arguments are chronic, talk them through, or get help from a professional who can help the two of you negotiate your differences. Too much arguing or too much resentment can lead to a breakup because most people will not stay in a relationship where there is constant discord. It is best to learn to delineate the trivial differences from the big ones so that you do not set the stage for letting your differences -- large or small -- split you apart.
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