Archive for January, 2011

31 JanRetro Kitchen Decorating Ideas



Home decorating is easier than you may think and the kitchen is the most popular room to start with. While there are many styles of kitchen d

31 JanEast African Politics

Although the eastern part of Africa is now commonly known as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, geographically and geopolitically, there are altogether 19 territories that constitute it. Currently, Rwanda and Burundi are pushing to be included as part of the main states in this region of Africa. The population here is currently over one hundred million and an area of 1.8 million square kilometers which comprises of natural resources like mines, forests and farmlands. Also a site of breathtaking views and scenes which are targets for discovering, Mt.Kilimanjaro and Lake Victoria as examples (Wikipedia, 2007).

Kenya and Uganda were colonies of the British while Tanzania was under the Germans. However, when Germany was defeated in World War II, Tanzania also became a colony of Great Britain. Resistant movements were formed which lead to independence, Tanzania being the first to experience it.

Soon after, the first Federation in East Africa was formed but did not last for long. Different philosophies which they individually followed were the main cause of this downfall. A political union was already underway during this time and the East African Legislative Assembly was then formed (Community, 2004-2006). The EALA manages mostly the budget of the community and handles the affairs concerning the Treaty. The rotary system was introduced and continues to be used (Tordoff, 1967).

To ensure that people adhere to the law interpreted and applied with fulfillment with the East African Treaty of 1999, the East African Court of Justice was formed. The education system in the three states varies only a little. Each state adopted the British way of educating. Most students prefer to go to Kenya which is believed to be where they can attain a higher education.

The East African shilling ceased to be used when the states attained independence from the British. Each introduced its own currency. However, proposals are being made to unify the currency and the market.

Kenya being the wealthiest among the three states as of the present will have to pay duty for goods entering the other two states (Uganda and Tanzania) until 2010 (Wikipedia, 2007). A common system is used for other countries supplying the three. Partner states give equal contribution for the core budget. Mobilized resources from within and outside the region funds regional programs and projects. Having so much in common gives the three states numerous benefits like wider market for goods which in turn would attract more investors. Also, good quality goods will be made cheaper because of competition. An increase on tourism earnings once the Single Tourist Visa is approved because it may be used for the three current member states of the EAC.

One cause of political drawbacks is time. Negotiations and discussions require enough time and sometimes the estimated time frame did not always meet reality. The sequencing may be off and the estimated completion may not be met. Specific country conditions are sometimes forgotten to take into consideration. Another one is decision making. It plays a crucial part and has to be done in legal steps but some operations were not totally measured. Resource constraints also cause delays. Activities require resources to be implemented. Privatization and restructuring were not handled well due to pressure from outside the government. In addition to those mentioned, partner states are not equal in wealth and development.

To achieve the community’s goals, peace, security, stability and good neighborliness is also needed. Fundamental and operational principles should be strengthened. There should be no gender discrimination. Work towards a people-centered growth and encourage good governance. Maintain the long standing bond in all aspects by Partner States and relations between the people of the region (Community, 2006).

31 JanNetsuke – Creative Miniature Sculpting

Article by Anita Satin Choudhary

Traditionally, these toggle forms of latches were made of cords with sliding types of beads to keep from loosing the personal belongings. These fastening forms of beads were eventually toggles hand-crafted into many different types of artistic expression.

There are nine different forms of netsuke known as “Katabori or sculpture netsuke”, “Anabori or hollowed netsuke”, “Sashi or stab netsuke”, “Obi-hasami sashi or elongated netsuke”, “Men or mask netsuke”, “Manju netsuke”, “Ryusa netsuke”, “Kagamibuta or mirror lid netsuke”, and Karakuri or mechanism netsuke”.

The most original types of Netsuke miniature sculptures were made of hard kinds of wood or different kinds of ivories. Although elephant ivory has long been band, mammoth ivory netsuke is most often the kind of ivory used in the making of today’s netsuke pieces.

Since the traditional Japanese clothing of the Kimono did not have the convenience of pockets, there were the creative means of various sized woven or clothe boxes and pouches. These different types of carrying devices were traditionally worn around the waste for being able to carry a few of the small personal belongs that would be desired to conveniently have with them throughout the day.

Along with important items like money seals or medicines, there were often also things like tobacco and tobacco pipes or any other desired types of personal needs. Upon these carrying devices, there would be the need for holding in the personal items by a string and a small toggle. Traditionally, these toggle forms of latches were made of cords with sliding types of beads to keep from loosing the personal belongings. These fastening forms of beads were eventually toggles hand-crafted into many different types of artistic expression.

These individually artistically handcrafted pieces are what are known as netsuke. Even though netsuke was originally known as purely useful and needed, they soon became one of the most freely expressive forms of art during a time period of a rigid Empire that did not condone most any types of expressively open freedoms. With such a culturally rigid world order of very little to no freedoms, these forms of so many different kinds of netsuke were seemingly exempt from most of the expressive omens during the Emperor’s rule.

As the popularity of netsuke quickly grew, so did the different formations and styles of netsuke pieces themselves. There are nine different forms of netsuke known as “Katabori or sculpture netsuke”, “Anabori or hollowed netsuke”, “Sashi or stab netsuke”, “Obi-hasami sashi or elongated netsuke”, “Men or mask netsuke”, “Manju netsuke”, “Ryusa netsuke”, “Kagamibuta or mirror lid netsuke”, and Karakuri or mechanism netsuke”.

The most original types of Netsuke miniature sculptures were made of hard kinds of wood or different kinds of ivories. Although elephant ivory has long been band, mammoth ivory netsuke is most often the kind of ivory used in the making of today’s netsuke pieces. There are also many other kinds of material types too that today and yesterday’s netsuke may be made from, including clay, porcelain, agate and even bamboo.

31 JanA Brief History of Internet Marketing



Having goods and services marketed on the internet seems second nature now, but actually internet marketing is a relatively new phenomenon. When the internet first started and more of the public began to access it, companies began to realize that they could utilize the internet to provide information to potential customers. The first examples of internet marketing were simply text websites. They were very basic and simple with no pictures or graphics. As the internet started to develop, more and more companies realized that they had a global audience at their disposal. Websites became more complex. They contained pictures of products and graphics intended to keep the customer interested.

By our standards today, these first websites seem archaic. However, they served their purpose as people began to turn to the internet for information about companies and what they had to offer. If someone wanted to buy something, they would call the company on a phone number provided by the website. Eventually, the technology existed so that companies could sell their products right from their website. E-commerce began to grow very quickly once methods to securely provide your credit card number became available. Consumers could now order products right from their home. Companies could reach customers all over the world. Online auction sites became very popular as people could sell their items to each other for a small fee.

There also was an increased use of the internet as a source of advertising. Companies began to place ads on other websites to promote their products. Today pay per click advertisements benefit both the publishers of the websites and the company which has goods to sell. Affiliate programs are also very popular. They allow website owners to advertise products on their website and if a customer purchases the item, then the website owner gets a percentage of the sale. The internet has even been used as a primary source of advertising. Companies have created innovative advertising programs, sometimes referred to as viral marketing. Viral marketing seeks to create a buzz about a product through word of mouth. Some viral marketing plans even use alternate reality games in order to promote a particular product.

Because of the expansive nature of internet marketing, it is sometimes overwhelming for a company to know where to begin. Luckily, there are many experts in this field who can create a plan which is sure to bring you success. There are even companies which can help you maximize your local business. For instance, you can find people who can set up a Boston internet marketing plan and maximize your Boston SEO as part of your overall marketing plan.

31 JanMobile Marketing For Local Business



Mobile marketing is not just a buzz word. Almost half of the US now have smart phones and consumers spend more time on their phones then computers. Your business marketing strategy must change to reflect these broad changes in how consumers search for products and services. More than half of mobile searches result in a purchase. Mobile Text Marketing is the #1 marketing technique you can use to increase your business.

Mobile marketing is simply a way of marketing to consumers who have mobile devices. Smart phones, and tablet devices (i.e. IPad) are growing much faster than traditional computing devices such as laptops and desktops. This has a profound implication for your business. Reaching mobile customers should be a top priority as your competitors begin to reconsider their marketing plans as well. Don’t Wait-Don’t be Late…you can get a head start on your customers by taking proactive steps to getting started. Getting started has never been easier.

Reaching mobile consumers via their mobile devices is critical. 93% of text messages are opened whereas email messages have open rates of less than 15% in a number of industries. Getting past spam filters is just as challenging. The beauty of text messaging is that consumers have elected to receive these messages from your business. Text messaging works like this….all mobile users must text their acceptance (opt-in) to your business by typing in a special “keyword” frequently your business or brand. Additionally a “short code” a set of 5 numbers is used for the texting service to deliver your messages. American Idol started the commercial application for text messaging a few years ago when the TV show “American Idol” asked millions of viewers to text their vote to “IDOL” at 5706….millions of text messages were received and this become one of the first commercial applications for business. Text messaging applications expanded to include coupons, discounts, surveys and more.

The first step in creating your mobile marketing text messaging campaigns is to create a plan as to what you wish to accomplish. Once you have a goal established you can begin to create a list of consumers that match your requirements. For most businesses, attracting their current customers becomes a priority. This can be done by inviting them to join your text messaging club by “opting in”. In return, businesses provide a compelling offer such as a free gift, coupon or discount. Building your text messaging list is both an art and a science. If you are a retail outfit you should consider placing flyers or table top tent cards inviting customers to join. Adding a “web widget” which is similar to the old fashion email opt in forms, should be placed on your web site to attract new text club members. Coach, a luxury brand of handbags is displaying “opt-in” promotions on their shelves in order to attract customers to their text messaging club. Large and small businesses alike are becoming aware of the power of text marketing.. Building your text messaging list becomes an arms race as the larger the list the more impact your campaign can have on business. Response rates to promotions are as high as 25%!

Message are sent from your account and can be a maximum of 160 characters or less. Text club members can “opt-out” of your club at any time.

Most companies will likely choice to have specialized vendors set up and conduct their campaigns as they continue to focus on what they do best….running their business. Look for a company that is available 7 days a week and has hours when you conduct your business so your messages can go out when you want them to. You also want to make sure the company is compliant with all of the regulatory requirements and can set up your account in hours not weeks. Some companies may offer free trials for you to evaluate the service..that’s always a good way to go.

Generating traffic and leads, customer loyalty and retention, and more business is the goal of most text message programs. One of the keys will be to get consumers to sign up for your list before customer fatigue sets in and consumers resist signing up for business after business. What are you waiting for?

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