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Richard Chapo - EzineArticles.com Expert Author
Richard Chapo is a lawyer and CEO of Business Tax Recovery, based in San Diego, California. He is an avid traveler with trips to over 50 countries and a few places that he can't pronounce.
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- Single Member Limited Liability Company - Piercing the Protective Shield
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Why do people form business entities for their small business? The answer is very simple. While they believe in their business idea, they want to protect themselves from any debts or lawsuits should the business have problems. For those forming an LLC with only one owner, this shield is often easily penetrated with disastrous results.
- Saving on Taxes - Plan Now
[Finance:Taxes] As we all know, the magic tax date is April 15th each year when tax returns must be filed. Well, at least that is what we are told. In truth, the magic period for taxes occurs in the months of November and December. Well, that is if you want to limit the amount of tax you pay on April 15th.
- First Time Real Estate Buyers Beware - Tax Credits That Are Really Loans
[Real-Estate:Buying] The real estate market in much of the United States looks like a boxer after going 10 rounds with Mike Tyson in his prime - bloodied, bruised and in pain. Tax credits have been instituted to try to stop the pain, but buyers should know about a big caveat with these.
- You've Formed an LLC - Now What?
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] We are a nation of do it yourselfers. This is true whether we are trying to fix the sprinklers in the yard or forming a business entity. Many people make a noble attempt to form their own limited liability companies these days, but then don't have any idea what to do with the business entity once they've done so.
- An LLC Operating Agreement - Getting a Grasp
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The modern limited liability company is touted as a great business choice for many situations in the business world. While most people know what a "LLC" is, few grasp the nature of the internal documents that control it. The Operating Agreement is one such document.
- Single Member LLCs - Losing Your Asset Protection
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The limited liability company is touted for its tax flexibility and asset protection benefits. While valid, single member limited liability companies are ripe for alter ego claims, which means the owner losses the asset protection benefit and becomes personally liable for the debts of the company.
- Single Member LLCs - Pros and Cons
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The LLC is touted as a great business entity for small businesses. This is particularly true for single member LLCs. If you are considering forming one of these entities, it is important to realize there are pros and cons that need to be taken into account.
- Tax Issues When Starting a New Business
[Finance:Taxes] You've decided to take the plunge. You are going to start your own business. Congratulations! There are some tax issues you need to consider before you start pursuing your dream business.
- Tax Issues to Keep in Mind When You Get Married
[Finance:Taxes] Getting married is a glorious event, certainly one of the most important in your life. That being said, the sheer joy involved can easily result in missing out on some practical issues that can pop up. This includes remembering to handle some administrative things with your taxes.
- Tax Records - How Long Should You Hold on to Them?
[Finance:Taxes] Doing your taxes is hardly a fun time. Once done, most people treat the process as out of out of sight, out of mind. This is fine so long as you hold on to the records you used to come up with the numbers on your return.
- Foreign Corporations in California - Failure to File Penalties
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] As the web grows exponentially, it is easier than ever to do business across the country with the click of a mouse. For corporations, this can lead to all kinds of legal problems, particularly in California.
- Single Member LLC - Piercing the Corporate Veil Issues
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The single member LLC is one of the more popular choices for small businesses. It is often touted as the perfect business entity, but there are definitely some areas of concern that a person forming the entity should know about. One has to do with the issue of piercing the corporate veil.
- Tax Consequences of Bartering
[Finance:Taxes] Bartering is the oldest form of compensation there is. It still goes on today and many are surprised to learn there can be tax consequences associated with it in the eyes of the government.
- Stimulus Bill Impact on Taxes on Unemployment Compensation
[Finance:Taxes] Losing your job is simply no fun whatsoever. There are a few safety nets built for the situation from a societal perspective. One of them is the concept of unemployment compensation. The issue of taxation of this compensation is a subject that drives people nuts.
- Tax Consequences of Losing Your Job
[Finance:Taxes] Losing your job is a miserable thing. Unfortunately, it is happening time and again these days. If you are let go, it is vital that you understand the tax consequences of losing your job. No, being fired isn't taxable, but follow up events can be.
- Understanding the Making Work Pay Tax Credit
[Finance:Taxes] The passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 represents a monstrous effort by the government to get the economy moving again. The Making Work Pay Tax Credit is part of that. Here's a rundown on how this tax credit works.
- Differences Between Traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs
[Investing:IRA-401k] Many people are focusing on their retirement situation with the implosion of the economy impacting stock prices. With this in mind, it never hurts to look at some of the basics of retirement savings vehicles. In this article we take a look at the differences between a traditional IRA and Roth IRA.
- Tax Refunds - Key Things to Know
[Finance:Taxes] Meeting the April 15 tax filing deadline can be like being in a horror story for most taxpayers. Once it passes, assuming you filed your return, the next step in the tax process can actually be a positive one. Why? The next step usually involves getting a tax refund!
- The Savers Credit - Get a Tax Credit For Saving For the Golden Years
[Finance:Taxes] What will you live off of when you reach the golden years? This has become a much bigger question for many people given the stock market losses of the last year. You should still be putting money into your retirement vehicles and there is a tax credit to motivate you to do so.
- Beware of Last Second IRS Scams
[Finance:Taxes] The day most taxpayers fear like no other is almost upon us. Yes, I'm talking about April 15, the deadline for filing your individual income tax return. As the day approaches, the stress level for most individuals goes through the roof. Scam artists see this as an opportunity.
- Do You Need More Time to File Your Tax Return?
[Finance:Taxes] April 15 is the tax filing deadline for 2009. This means you need to have your tax return in the mail by the end of that day. If you do not have your return in the mail by that time, you're technically late in the filing of said return which of course will not make the IRS happy.
- Ferrying Into Sihanoukville, Cambodia - A Warning
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] If you are considering traveling to Southeast Asia, doing the Thailand-Cambodia trip is a favorite of many. The trip from Thailand to Sihanoukville, Cambodia can be a bit startling, however. It need not be.
- Deducting Credit Card Fees When Paying Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] The last year has seen one of the worst economic scenarios we've experienced in a very long time. Some would say it is been so bad that we are even in a second Great Depression of sorts. What is indisputable is that money has been tight for most Americans. It's particularly problematic now that taxes are coming due on April 15.
- Paying Your Taxes With Plastic
[Finance:Taxes] As we come up on April 15, the actual task of paying your taxes is probably coming front and center in your mind. While the IRS will let you file for an extension to file your tax return, that extension does not extend to the actual payment of any taxes that you will owe to the government.
- Take a Camper Trip This Spring
[Travel-and-Leisure:Camping] College kids live for spring break because it is a time to celebrate the end of winter. Okay, they are going to celebrate a bit more than most people, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't be thinking along the same lines. A camper trip might just be the answer.
- Travel Alternatives During the Recession
[Travel-and-Leisure:Budget-Travel] Traveling is a great way to move beyond your daily boundaries and experience the world, whether that be a few hours away or half way across the globe. The only problem, of course, is a bit of money is required. In the current recessionary period, watching every dollar makes sense and means rethinking travel plans.
- Tax Deadline - Filing an Extension
[Finance:Taxes] April 15th is a feared day for most taxpayers across the country. Paying the taxes isn't entirely the problem. It really has to do with the preparation of the tax returns. If you are feeling under the gun this year, you don't have to panic. You can always apply for an extension to file with the IRS.
- First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit - A Trick to Claiming it Quickly
[Finance:Taxes] A number of bills have been passed in an effort to get the economy moving again. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 contains a tremendous financial windfall for first time homebuyers. If you are thinking about buying, here's how to get the windfall quickly.
- It's Time to Get Moving on Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] If you haven't already started getting ready to file your taxes, now is definitely the time. Yes, it is that time of year again. April 15th is just around the corner and that means tax filing time.
- The Difficulty of Traveling Off the Beaten Path
[Travel-and-Leisure] There was a time when mass travel simply didn't exist. It was too expensive for most folks. Obviously, those times passed a long time ago. While more people are traveling than every before, some wonder if this mass movement has defeated some of the positive aspects of traveling.
- Thai Boxing Matches and Tourists
[Recreation-and-Sports:Boxing] Thailand is known as the land of smiles, but it also has a rougher side. The country is well known for its own form of combat called Thai boxing.
- Deep Fried Critters in Thailand
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] Southeast Asia is definitely a location where you can experience a different way of life. This includes some of the things you can find to eat on the streets of the cities.
- How to Protect Business Assets From Lawsuits
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] You decide to start a business and are going to be smart from the get go. You form a corporation to create a shield between the obligations of the business and your personal assets. It's a nice start, but has one serious weakness.
- Millions Are Missing Out on $1.3 Billion in 2005 Tax Refunds
[Finance:Taxes] Times are tough and money is oh so very tight these days. With this in mind, it is a bit of a shock that over a million people have not claimed their rightful tax refunds for 2005.
- Unique Approaches to Beating Writer's Block
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] It doesn't get much worse than writer's block. It can hit you when you are just starting out on a piece, in the middle or, even worse, write at the end. Regardless of the timing, working through it can require some creative strategies.
- A Great Cheap International Trip Even in This Economic Mess
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] The economic downturn has hit everyone from the richest of the rich to the poorest of the poor. For hardcore travelers, this makes getting out on the road a real challenge. Don't worry. There is still a great part of the planet you can explore on a tight budget.
- The Ultimate Massage in Cambodia
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] Whether you are dragging around a large backpack or suitcases, traveling can definitely take a toll on your body. A massage is a great way to give your body some peace while tuning it up as well.
- Travel Warnings Vs Travel Alerts
[Travel-and-Leisure] The U.S. Government issues informational updates for potential travel destinations for citizens. These updates are issued as warnings or alerts. They are not the same thing and understanding the difference is the key to avoiding problems.
- Travel Warning - Airline Travel in 2009
[Travel-and-Leisure:Airline-Travel] If ever there was an industry that lives in a highly volatile world, it is the airline industry in the United States. The conditions move fast and the sight of airlines going in and out of bankruptcy is so common most people don't even bat an eye any more. That being said, 2009 is shaping up to be a rough one.
- Are You in a General Partnership and Don't Realize It?
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy. While the big boys get all the media attention, there is little doubt that small businesses make the wheels go round. That being said, the legal and tax regulations are not very friendly towards these businesses.
- How Journaling Can Help Your Writing
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Writing is a process, but it is still an art form when all things are considered. If you are writing towards a goal, it can be easy to have this creative artistic side of the genre go dormant. Journaling is a good way to reverse this.
- Travel in 2009 - All is Not Grim
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] To say that there are a lot of people who will be glad to see 2008 end as soon as possible would be a small understatement. It was a rough year and there is no discounting that. 2009 is not forecast to be much better, but travel may be an area where there is some silver lining.
- The 1099-MISC Independent Contractor Deadlines Are Upon Us
[Finance:Taxes] Opportunity beckons as we venture into a new calendar year. Unfortunately, so do tax filing tasks. One of the first that pops up is the requirement to report certain payments to independent contractors to the IRS on form 1099- MISC.
- A Secondary Costa Rican Attraction
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] Costa Rica is a hugely popular vacation destination in Central America. It has a little something for everyone, but one of its top attractions is rarely mentioned in travel circles - the food.
- Understanding and Appreciating Russian Hospitality
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] If you take a trip to Russia, it can be easy to be swept up by events and miss out on some of the finer things happening. This is often because of the easy hospitality of the average Russian family, something you should respect and appreciate.
- Travel in Russia - Understanding the Taxi System
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] Privyet! Da! Nyet! Dasvidanya! You've decided on a trip to Russia and these are the four words you will learn first in preparation - hello, yes, no, goodbye! Understanding how to get around using the infamous Russian taxi system is a bit more complex.
- The Perfect Business Entity For Passive Investors
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Business entities are some of the most misunderstood legal tools on the market. Many people just form them because it is something you are supposed to do. In truth, the various entities are designed for specific purposes. Let's consider a common scenario.
- Capturing Those Fleeting Thoughts on Stories
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] It is the rare person that can sit down and write out a story from beginning to end in one go. In fact, I would hazard no human being can do it! Plots come in fits and starts. Keeping an inventory of them is the key so you can use them when the need arises.
- Renting Transportation in Costa Rica
[Travel-and-Leisure:Car-Rentals] So, you've decided to head down to Costa Rica for a little vacation time. It is a quality destination, but you are going to need some way to get around. That means renting a car, truck or van.
- Will Taxes Rise in 2009?
[News-and-Society:Economics] The recent election of Barack Obama along with a strong Democrat Congress has led to much hand ringing regarding taxes being raised. The question is whether this will actually happen in 2009.
- Kicking it Old School in Sihanoukville, Cambodia
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] Trying to find a destination that is off the path is a real chore these days for most travelers. One tends to look to changing circumstances in a country for the prime new locations. Cambodia is certainly one such destination now.
- Use Those Gift Cards Quickly!
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews:Gifts] Christmas is upon us and that means gift giving and receiving. If you receive gift cards from a friend or family member, you might be wise to get out there and use them quickly.
- The Value of a Beater Laptop When Traveling
[Travel-and-Leisure] They say you can't take it with you, but that simply isn't true when traveling these days. You can take your laptop and eat it...err, well use it wherever you are. The question is whether you should.
- When Champagne is Not Necessarily Champagne
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] The bubbly stuff has certainly developed a reputation. From New Year's toasts to teams celebrating championships, the classic French Champagne is a standard bearer. The question is whether that bottle you have is really Champagne.
- Mixing Work and Travel Via the Web
[Business:Careers-Employment] The digital revolution is upon us, but many people do not fully think through the potential benefits of it. For many people, the idea of traveling while also working is no longer a myth.
- Know Your Champagne For New Years
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Champagne is often the celebratory drink of choice for special occasions ranging from weddings to victories to boat launchings to New Year's Eve. As we charge towards the New Year, knowing your champagne is important.
- Fortified Wines - A Kick in the Pants
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] When discussing wines, most people focus on the two basic categories of whites and reds. Some might even through the sparkling wines in as a third category, but most fail to bring up fortified wines. If you are really serious about wine, this is a mistake.
- Travel Warning - Think Twice About Visiting Tijuana, Mexico
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] Living in San Diego, we natives often hop the border to experience the good times in Mexico. From tremendous food to fine people to great surf to Tequila, there is something for everyone. Unfortunately, the current state of things in Tijuana and down the coast below the border are bad.
- Selecting a Business Entity - Think it Through
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] You've decided to form a small business and are worried about liability among other things. The obvious answer is to form a business such as a corporation or limited liability company...or is it?
- Tax Credits - Why You Should Be Focusing on Them
[Finance:Taxes] To say the subject of taxes is a complex one is to make just a minor understatement. That being said, the subject of tax credits is one you want to understand. Okay, so what is a tax credit?
- Don't Buy the Organic Wine Claim
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] With obesity and health problems on the rise, we've all started taking a closer look at what we eat. For instance, if pesticides kill bugs, they can't be too good for us either. This goes for the wines we drink as well, which brings us to the subject of organic wine.
- Dealing With Tax Problems
[Finance:Taxes] Whether we like it or not, paying taxes is a part of life. That being said, it can be easy to get behind when it comes to filing tax returns and making the necessary payments. If you have tax problems, it is important that you deal with them while you can instead of when the IRS decides to come after you.
- When Wine Goes Bad
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] You invite some friends over for a dinner party. The appetizers are up and you pop the cork on a nice Bordeaux in anticipation. After letting it breathe for a bit, you pour a glass and take a sip. Your lips curl up like you are eating a lemon! You've got a bad bottle of wine.
- Letting Wine Breathe in a Restaurant
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Drinking wine at dinner is obviously a very common act and the same goes for when you are in a restaurant. The question, however, is how do you deal with letting a wine breathe in the restaurant setting.
- Don't Wait Till April to Do Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] There are certain things we are happy to do in our free time and others that we will naturally put off to the last moment. Taxes definitely fall into this second category. Unfortunately, there is usually a cash penalty for waiting to deal with them.
- What to Do When Receiving an IRS Notice
[Finance:Taxes] There you are minding your own business. You work all day, catch the kid's game and then come home. You innocently grab the mail and start looking through it as you walk up the driveway. Junk mail, magazines, a bill and...a letter from the IRS! So much for your relaxing day.
- The Positive Aspects of Invoice Factoring
[Business:Accounting] We are a nation that is constantly living and dealing with debt. While individuals get the most attention, this is also true for businesses as well. For many businesses, the issue of cash flow becomes a huge problem and they look to factoring as a method for overcoming it.
- Getting the Temperature Right When Serving Wine
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] There are many nuances when it comes to consuming wine. Most of the conversation centers around the actual taste and aroma of the wine, but there is a more practical area that should receive more attention than it does.
- IRS Releases Mile Rate For Business Mile Deduction in 2009
[Finance:Taxes] Getting out and conducting business is a basic necessity for any business person these days even with the easy of digital communications coming on like mad. Fortunately, Congress knows as much and tax law has long allowed for the deduction of costs related to driving around on business.
- The Secret to Saving Money on Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Have you ever complained about paying taxes? If you answered no, then you are lying! Everyone complains about them because there is no way around the fact you have to pay a certain percentage of your income to the federal government. Limiting the size of that percentage is the goal of every taxpayer.
- Is That Bottle of Wine Really From Where it Says?
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] When it comes to advertising these days, the onset of "truthiness" has never been more apparent. Sadly, this is also true with the wine you buy and drink. The location suggested on the bottle does not necessarily mean the wine is from that area.
- When Corks and Wine Simply Do Not Mix
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] From the most sophisticated setting to Captain Jack Sparrow throwing one back, we all know the basic pillars of wine - the wine, a bottle and a cork. It really doesn't get more basic than that.
- The Economic Silver Lining - Are Oil Prices Down For Good?
[News-and-Society:Energy] They say there is a silver lining to every situation. Sometimes that silver gleam can be very hard to find. When it comes to this economic wipeout, the drop in oil prices seems to be the big windfall.
- To Decant Or Not to Decant - That is the Question
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] The wonderful world of wine brings to us unique concepts that are so off the beaten path that they violate such basics as grammar. For instance, in this article we discuss the merits of letting a wine breathe, as if a liquid could do so.
- Storing Wine - The Odd Questions You Always Wondered About
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Wine is often given human characteristics. It "breathes". It is a "living body." Much of this terminology has come to be because wine is so temperamental that one can believe it has a mind of its own. The issues surrounding storing it prove as much.
- The Positive Benefits of Keeping a Personal Journal
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Journaling has been with us for hundreds of years, but don't think that makes it quaint. It is a means for excising the mind and soul. Hey, Oprah does it!
- Top Wine Gifts For the 2008 Holidays
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] The end of the year is coming around again and it is time to come up with gift ideas for friends, family, bosses and co-workers. Here are some suggestions for wine oriented gifts that will not set you back an arm and a leg in these tough times.
- IRS Audit Rates Are Up
[Finance:Taxes] As you've probably notice, the federal government has been spending money like it grows on trees. Whatever your political views, two wars and a failing finance industry cost a lot of money to deal with. Well, it just so happens that IRS audit rates are up. Could they be related?
- Daily Food Journals
[Health-and-Fitness:Weight-Loss] We live in a rush-rush world, which makes dieting difficult because we often don't track correctly what we are consuming. Daily food journals are a great way to short circuit this problem and ultimately accomplish the weight loss you are after.
- Truly Listen to Your Customers
[Business:Marketing] Running your own business can be an intense affair. There is the stress of meeting the bottom line and the euphoria of the good days. With the current consumer market a scary one, it is vital that you take the extra steps to make sure your business comes out on the other side of what is going to be an ugly year or two.
- Get a Tax Deduction For Paying Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] The tax code in the United States is habitually criticized for being so complex that most people cannot fathom whether they are paying too much or not enough. This complexity has grown to the point of a pleasant absurdity when it comes to deducting taxes you've paid.
- Preserving Your Fishing Experiences For Prosperity
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Time flies and don't we all know it. One day you are fishing with your buddies in high school and the next you are trying to teach your kids how to tie a fly. As the years pass, so do our memories. Keeping a fishing journal is a great way to record those memories and pass them down to your kids.
- A Day at the Mandarin Oriental in New York City
[Travel-and-Leisure:Hotels-Accommodations] New York City is a play you simply have to visit even if you do not like big cities. It is a blend of so many clashing interests, cultures and vibes that spending a week in the Big Apple is something you will not forget quickly.
- Keeping a Wine Tasting Journal
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] If you enjoy wine, you enjoy wine tasting. It is a good way to experience new vintages and really develop your palette. Over time, you can really nail down the wine you enjoy and eliminate those that simply do not pass muster. Keeping a wine tasting journal is the way to do this.
- Selling Your Account Receivables For Cash Flow Relief
[Finance] What could possibly be bad about account receivables? Well, waiting for them to be paid by your clients. While you wait, your own creditors are drumming their fingers on the table and getting grumpy about you paying them.
- Don't Be Afraid to Mix and Match Story Lines
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] When writing creatively, it is rather ironic that as writers we often put ourselves in a box and then refuse to think outside of it. It is hardly creative! This is particularly true when it comes to developing the story line for your work. We pick a plot line and then stick to it come hell or high water.
- Fishing - Be One With the Fish
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] There are two types of people that enjoy fishing. One simply enjoys the time away from the hustle and bustle of life and is not particularly bothered one way or another whether they catch any fish. The other person is obsessed with catching fish and is willing to go to any length to do so. This article is written for those who are obsessed!
- Building Story Clips With Journals
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] The inspiration for creative writing is one that should not be restricted. Inspiration comes in many forms and at many different times. When it does, you need to be ready to sit down and jot down your thoughts.
- A Day at the Equinox Resort Spa in Beautiful Vermont
[Travel-and-Leisure:Hotels-Accommodations] You might not think of a lavish resort town when you think of Manchester, Vermont. You may not even think of spas when you think of the state of Vermont. However, the Equinox Resort Spa seems to be breaking all of these assumptions at once.
- Coming to Grips With the Rules of Wine Drinking
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Wine has often received a bad wrap as a bit of a snob hobby. Much of this is due to the verbiage used as well as the fairly humorous wine etiquette rules. If you are just starting to get into wine, it is vital that you come to grips with these rules.
- Choosing Wines For Thanksgiving Dinner
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] The year is flying by quickly. Halloween is past us and Thanksgiving is coming on quickly and you know what that means - the hefty, delicious Thanksgiving Dinner. Ah, but which wine are you going to drink?
- The Finer Points of Fishing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] To fish or not to fish - that is the question! Oh, come on. That is no question at all. We all know the answer is to fish and to fish as often as you possibly can. To that end, let us extol upon the reasons why heading out with a rod and real is just a good old idea.
- Synchronize Your Marketing Pitches in a Tough Economy
[Business:Marketing] Well, welcome to the end of the world. At least, that is the impression being given by the pundits. As usual, the hysteria is a bit overblown. Are things tough? Yes. Will it last? No. As always, things will turn around. It might take a few years, so until then you need to rethink your marketing efforts.
- Crescent Court in Dallas, Texas
[Travel-and-Leisure:Hotels-Accommodations] Although some hotel rooms tend to be rather expensive, you do not get a lot of space inside of your room. At the Crescent Court Resort in Dallas, Texas, space seems to be the number one priority. Rooms are large enough to move around in, and the hotel itself is a pure delight to visit.
- Birding - Optimal Spots For Sightings
[Reference-and-Education:Wildlife] Bird watching is a hobby that is sweeping the nation. It may seem odd to suggest that watching birds could be addictive, but it is. To get hooked, of course, you have to find spots for optimal viewing.
- The Secret to Getting the Right Wine For Particular Foods
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] The world of wine is surprisingly full of rules. The world of food is as well. Some things go together and other things simply do not. When it comes to picking the right wine for a meal, this can make things a bit tricky.
- One Solution For Business Cash Flow Problems
[Business] When you first start out running a business, the idea of profits and losses seems pretty simple. The business will flourish if you make a profit. It will fail if you do not. Pretty soon, however, you begin to realize that something called cash flow is a critical issue as well.
- How a Proactive CPA Saves You Big Money
[Finance:Taxes] Dealing with taxes is just about the last thing anyone wants to do. That includes me and I write about them. That being said, there is one clear rule when it comes to taxes. If you plan ahead to deal with them, you will pay far less than if you just throw together a tax return at the last moment.
- Save Money With Tax Planning in the Fourth Quarter
[Finance:Taxes] As we work through the fourth quarter of the calendar year, many people put thoughts of taxes on the back burner. After all, you really don't have any major tax filing deadlines coming up until returns are due the next year.
- Just Where is My Stimulus Check?
[Finance:Taxes] Like millions of Americans, you decided to file an extension last April so you could file your taxes this past October 15th. Well, the day has come and gone. You have filed your taxes and now you want to know, "Where is my stimulus payment?"
- The Incredible Chianti Wine
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] When it comes to wine, the measure of taste is usually subtle. You sort of like that wine, but kind of do not like that other wine. Chianti wine is another beast entirely. It is definitely a take it or leave it wine for many people.
- Wine Label Collecting - The Secret to Successfully Removing Labels
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Drinking wine is one of those luxuries that can quickly become a full blown habit. The more you get into it, the more you will want to document your wine experiences. Keeping a journal of your wine experiences is a common step, but so is wine label collecting.
- The Ins and Outs of Legs on Wine
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Wine tasting is the art of the sublime. It is part of the evaluation process in which we determine if a wine is superior or inferior. There are many subtle aspects to making this evaluation. One question is the role the legs of a wine play.
- Why it is Important to Let Wine Breathe
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] As human beings, we need to breathe to live. The reason is rather obvious given our biology. In the world of food and drink, wine also needs to breathe although why is less clear to many people.
- Let it Breathe - How to Aerate Your Wine
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] The world of wine can often seem like an alien one. From etiquette to tasting technique, the common functions of wine drinking can be mystifying. One such area that confuses many has to do with letting a wine breathe.
- Tips For Using Promotional Items
[Business:Advertising] The word has come down from on high. You've been charged with putting together a promotional campaign for your organization. Here are some tips on creating a successful effort.
- Staying on the Ball With Your Marketing
[Business:Marketing] It is amazing how often a massive marketing opportunity presents itself to a business niche and nobody does anything about it. This brings up the issue of staying on the ball with your marketing and waking up to the possibilities all around you.
- Finding Good Schwag For Your Promotional Marketing
[Business:Marketing] Sometimes, the old methods are still the best way to go when it comes to building a business. In an ever competitive business world, this can often mean using promotional items to entice potential customers to become definite customers. The problem, of course, is you need to find some good "schwag" to entice them.
- Surf and Turf in Del Mar, California
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] It's that time of the year again. As we move into the middle of the hot summer months, the surf and turf is rolling again in Del Mar. Yep, the horse races have started again. Del Mar is a beautiful little coast town located in the North County area of San Diego. It carries the profile of a large hill rolling down to the ocean. The northern section of Del Mar, however, is a valley heading inland with a waterway in which the tide goes in and out. In this area about a thousand feet from the ocean lies the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
- Purple Martins - Knowing Your Bird Species
[Pets:Birds] Whether you are hooked on bird watching or just like to know what you are looking at, knowing your birds is important. In this article, we take a look at Purple Martins.
- What To Do When Missing a W-2 Form
[Finance:Taxes] The W-2 form is one of the basic elements of any salaried person's taxes. Ah, but what do you do if an employer has not sent your W-2 before it is time to prepare your taxes?
- Receive Your Tax Refund Faster With Direct Deposit
[Finance:Taxes] The silver lining to doing taxes for most people is getting a tax refund. If you are feeling a money crunch these days, asking the IRS to directly deposit the refund in your bank account will speed things up.
- A Few Things To Note About Flying In and Out of Thailand
[Travel-and-Leisure:Airline-Travel] If you live in North America, finding a cheap destination is a big priority this year. Thailand represents a killer deal and it is very friendly towards Americans. If you are going for the first time, however, there is something you need to know about the flight.
- Thailand - A Cheap Travel Destination That Delivers
[Travel-and-Leisure] Fuel prices are up and the economy is down this year. That makes getting the most bang out of your travel buck important. Thailand represents a fascinating and excellent travel destination that is also an incredible deal.
- Going Beyond the Norm with Promotional Items
[Business:Sales] It has long been standard practice to give people more than they expect in the form of promotional items. The problem, of course, is most people have seen the run of the mill things. This means you need to go beyond the norm to have your items make an impact.
- Corporations - Making Tax Year Designations
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Death and taxes are those two things you can never escape. When forming a corporation, making your tax year designation is a fundamental step you need to take carefully.
- Foreign Corporation - You Might Be Designated As One
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The legal system comes in categories and layers that most people don't grasp at first. One of the layers has to do with how corporations are regulated and leads to the odd situation where many corporations are designated as "foreign" even if they are formed in a state.
- Don't Inadvertently Breach Your Corporate Protection
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Corporations are valued for a number of reasons and the shield against liability is certainly a big one. Given this, you really don't want to inadvertently breach your corporate shield.
- Issues of Solar Power Viability
[News-and-Society:Energy] As the demand for energy continues to grow, the world is looking to diversify energy platforms. Solar power is mentioned continually, but is it really viable?
- The Twisted Terminology of Fishing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] If you are just getting into fishing, you can quickly become confused by some of the quarks in the terminology used. Here are some of the oddities that reveal you shouldn't take everything as it seems.
- The Fishing Rod vs Vehicle War
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] As an angler, your fishing rod is obviously a valuable tool that needs to be maintained and protected. This means keeping it from the clutches of the predator known as your vehicle.
- Is The End of Cheap Travel Coming?
[Travel-and-Leisure] We live in a golden time for many things including travel. We can travel for a relative pittance to nearly any destination in the world. The question is whether we will be able to do so for much longer.
- Can You Afford to Fly Abroad This Year?
[Travel-and-Leisure] Most people love to travel around the world whenever possible. So, why don't more of them do it? The cost can be prohibitive for one. This may be a particularly difficult problem this year.
- Visiting San Diego - Finding Breakfast Joints
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you are one of the many that like to come to San Diego for a vacation, you are going to have to eat sooner or later. There are plenty of quality places, so there is no need to eat in the tourist traps.
- The Mexican Food Place to Eat At When Visiting San Diego
[Food-and-Drink:Restaurant-Reviews] San Diego is a big tourist destination to say the least. While there are more than a few restaurants designed to cater to the tourist, the locals eat at the best places and so can you.
- Escape By Planning Your Summer Vacation Now
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] Yes, it is cold and dreary outside in much of the country, but that doesn't mean you can't mentally escape to the warmth of summer and a vacation. Start planning now and you'll be on your way mentally!
- Fly Fishing - Patagonia in Argentina
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] When you think of fly fishing, Argentina is probably not a place that immediately comes to mind. Well, it should. Outside of Buenos Aires is a veritable outdoorsmen paradise.
- Accepting Nature When Birding
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Flip on a program on the natural world and you would swear that tigers and water buffalo sleep curled up together at nice in peaceful bliss. Unfortunately, the natural world doesn't really work this way and you need to keep this in mind when birding.
- Getting The Most Out Of Your Bird Watching
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] When you first start bird watching, you'll quickly gain an appreciation for the various species you sight. After a few sessions, however, you'll want to raise your birding game to new levels. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your birding.
- Climbing Carabiners - An Introduction
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] When you start rock climbing, you'll most likely just be playing around on surfaces that aren't too high. Once you decide to get serious, it will be time to get technical and that means carabiners.
- Who Do You Have To Issue 1099-MISC Tax Forms To?
[Finance:Taxes] January starts off with a blissful anticipation of a glorious new year. It quickly turns into a panic as you try to get your finances in order so you can issue 1099-MISC tax forms. Ah, but who do you have issue them to?
- 1099 MISC Deadlines for Independent Contractors Approaching
[Finance:Taxes] The turning of the new year is a time for a new beginning. Unfortunately, January is also the time when the tax season begins in earnest. 1099-MISC filings are on of the first things that come up.
- Taxes - Your Information Reporting Requirements
[Finance:Taxes] You may wonder how the IRS tracks the movement of money so that it knows who owes how much. Well, there are a number of ways and information returns are one of the key ones.
- No Need for Panicked Mailings to the IRS Anymore
[Finance:Taxes] It happens every year. You forget to file some tax form and get into a panic trying to find the correct form, fill it out and slam it into the mail before the relevant deadline. This madness may be coming to an end.
- Tax Issues - Social Security Wage Base Increase for Employers
[Finance:Taxes] As an employer, you are responsible for a bevy of red tape when it comes to your employees. Making things even better, the rules and regulations regarding that red tape gets changed a bit each year.
- The Reasons To Get Into Rock Climbing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] You probably are aware of rock climbing and might wonder why it has gained in popularity to the point that you now have cruise ships with walls to practice on! Well, there are a number of reasons.
- Vacation Rock Climbing In Europe
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] If you catch the rock climbing bug, you'll soon be looking for places to climb all over the world. Taking a climbing vacation to Europe should be on your list. In fact, you should take a LONG vacation!
- Bird Watching - Helping the Fallen
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If you have been birding for awhile, chances are that you have come across a fallen bird at least a few times. While every birder will encounter this dilemma, there are some things that you should know about when to - and when not to - rescue a fallen bird.
- Bird Watching - Hold That Pose!
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Some photographers claim that children are the most difficult subjects to capture on camera, but if you are a birder, you know better. Effectively stalking and capturing a bird on film is a skill the requires great patience and know-how, but with a bit of luck (and a lot of careful planning) you can have some fantastic feathery photographs in no time.
- Bird Watching - Sighting Night Birds
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If you think that the birding world really comes alive first thing in the morning, you may be surprised to know that many birds wake up after the sun has gone down. Some birds are real night owl's (and yes, they come out at night too), so get ready for some late night birding.
- Useful Bird Watching Terminology
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] As with any other sport, birding comes with its own set of intricate terminology, which is usually known as "birding slang." While you do not have to memorize every bird term out there, it will help you to become familiar with the following words and their meanings.
- Essential Bird Watching Gear
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] You wouldn't dare step up to a golf course without a standard set of clubs, and what would a tennis court be without a good racket? Well, if you intend to become a birder, there are a few pieces of equipment that you just shouldn't live without.
- Music to Your Ears When Birding
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Although pre-recorded audio tapes depicting the sounds that birds make can be quite relaxing, they are really not necessary once you learn how to recognize a bird's tune. Birds are often quite loud during the morning hours, but unless you have a trained ear you may not recognize them at all.
- Bird Watching and Gardening Mixed
[Home-and-Family] The weather may be frightful at the moment, but spring is not too far around the bend. If you love to watch birds, why not start your own personal bird garden?
- Befriending the Birds
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] If the thought of feeding wild birds from your own palm conjures up images of certain animated movies, you may be interested to know that hand feeding birds is not reserved for cartoon characters. Most backyard birds are just waiting for an invitation to a feast that you can easily prepare in the palm of your hand.
- A Beginners Guide to Bird Watching
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] So, you've decided to try bird watching, have you? Well, there are just a few things that you should know before heading out into the wide world of birds, and the following tips can make your bird watching adventures more worthwhile.
- All About Twitching When Bird Watching
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] The art of "twitching" may seem like an odd pursuit, but if you are a bird watcher twitching is actually a fun activity. Bird watching is becoming quite a popular activity, and twitching is now at the heart of every bird enthusiast -- amateur and expert alike.
- Bird Watching - Advice For Your First Time Out
[Pets:Birds] Fall is a great time for bird watching. If you are going to give it a try for the first time, there are some guidelines you should follow to make sure you get the most out of it.
- Know Your Audience - Writing for Yourself
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] If you write for profit, or a lack of profit as is so often the case, you focus on providing a message or story to a particular audience. If you don't connect, the project fails. If you do, it is a success and more work is usually on the horizon.
- Staying Warm in the Russian Winter
[Travel-and-Leisure] Considering visiting Russia this winter? If so, you are going to need to learn how to stay warm in the legendary Russian winter. Alas, the Russians have come up with a fail proof strategy over the years.
- IRS Creates Easy Online EIN Application Process for Businesses
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] As most know, you have been able to obtain an EIN online through the IRS for new businesses. The process was fairly confusing, however, because the IRS essentially just put a form online. That has all changed.
- Last Minute Airline Upgrades on Longer Flights
[Travel-and-Leisure:Airline-Travel] Flying is a necessary evil if you want to get from one place to another. The level of evil you must submit to, however, is directly proportional to the class of seating you have. First class seating on a long flight is simply heaven on earth.
- Self-Improvement Through Journaling
[Self-Improvement:Techniques] Journaling is well known to have more than a few meditative effects on people keeping them. There is something about writing out your thoughts, be they good or bad, that helps.
- How Multi-Owner Businesses Are Like Marriages
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] A person nearly always has some pretty large dreams when they form a business. If the business is one that will be owned by multiple people, it is vital that you make sure everyone has the same dream.
- The Optimal Time to Visit San Diego
[Travel-and-Leisure] The fires burning in Southern California certainly are scary and a tragedy for those of us that live here. They do, however, also highlight a little known fact about San Diego.
- Tennessee's Crack Tax Goes Up In Smoke
[Finance:Taxes] Politicians love to spend money and states work hard to come up with it. A recent ruling on an inventive Tennessee drug tax shows just how far they are willing to go.
- Tax Consequences of Foreclosures
[Finance:Taxes] As we all know by watching the news, the real estate market is pulling back hard from the days of glory earlier this decade. In fact, many people are losing their homes to foreclosure. Few realize the tax consequences of losing one's home.
- Options For Forming Corps and LLCs
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Given the fact that the threat of getting sued is on just about every business owner's mind, it is hardly surprising that most businesses are held in the form of a corporation or limited liability company. While this makes sense, how to actually form an entity is an issue to.
- Timing the "S" Corporation Designation
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The corporate entity is a very popular one with most businesses. Although traditional "C" corporations are frowned upon for small businesses, "S" corporations are viewed more favorably.
- Tips For Late Summer Travel
[Travel-and-Leisure] We are into the latter part of summer, but that doesn't mean many of us are not still traveling on vacations. Here are a few last minute tips to help you out.
- S-Corporation - Making the Election
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Once you decide to form a corporation for your business entity, you will quickly be faced with another question. Should the corporation pay taxes as a "C" or "S" corporation?
- Getting Your New Corporation Up and Running - Funding
[Business] Once you form a new business entity, you need to come up with a way to get money into it. This concept is known as capitalization or funding of the business entity.
- The Gap In The Corporate Shield of Many Businesses
[Legal] If you run practically any business these days, you should form either a corporation, limited liability company or other entity to protect yourself from liability. While this is true, most businesses do not realize there is a gap in the protection.
- When Is A Corporation Considered Foreign?
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The word "foreign" carries connotations of something in a country other than one's own. In the world of corporate law, of course, it has an entirely different meaning.
- Introduction to Close Corporations
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Mention the corporate entity and most people start thinking about S or C designations. In some states, close corporations are another variable that are available.
- Business Entities for Professionals in California
[Legal] California is a notoriously unfriendly state for business. This reputation extends to business entities for professionals practicing in the state.
- IRS Continues to Help Hurricane Katrina Victims
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS is often bashed as being unfriendly to taxpayers. In many cases, this reputation is deserved. In relation to Hurricane Katrina victims, it is certainly not.
- Issues With Capitalizing Your New Corporation
[Legal] Once you register a corporation in your state, you must go ahead and capitalize it. This raises a host of questions regarding the best way to do it and potential risks of getting it wrong.
- Piercing the Corporate Veil - Factors Considered
[Legal] Most shareholders believe a corporation protects them from personal liability. This is generally true unless alter ego is successfully asserted.
- Piercing the Corporate Veil - Alter Ego
[Legal] Deciding to incorporate is usually a function of seeking to protect oneself from the risks of doing business by employing a corporate shield. Ah, but can that shield be penetrated? Yes!
- Common Question About LLC's
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The limited liability company is a popular business entity for small businesses. Here are some common questions and answers regarding the entity.
- Stomping About Wisconsin
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] The Midwest is home to some fabulous wilderness adventure areas - you just have to know where to look - and Wisconsin provides some of the best of the best of these spots.
- Trekking About Alaska
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Alaska is perhaps the wildest of the 50 United States - untamed, relatively unsettled and definitely extreme in climate - so it only makes sense that trekking around the state would be insanely popular.
- Getting Out Into Nature While In France
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] When most people think of France, they picture quaint cafes and the rest of Paris, but there is a lot more to this country than just city life - such as the beautiful countryside.
- Trekking on the Island of Santorini
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] A trip to Europe is always an exciting prospect, but if you enjoy the great outdoors as well, you can enhance your European trip with some trekking on the island of Santorini.
- Get Sued By Competitors for Lying On Your Privacy Policy
[Legal:Cyber-Law] Many sites put up privacy policies without giving them much thought. Once up, they are often forgotten about even if the policy is later changed. This can lead to disaster as one recent case showed.
- Issues With Trademarking Your Domain Name
[Legal:Cyber-Law] Protecting intellectual property rights should be a critical step for any business. With an online business, protecting a domain name is all the more critical.
- Why Site Owners Must Know California Internet Regulations
[Legal:Cyber-Law] Most sites on the web are at least faintly familiar with the implementation of legal regulations related to their sites. Most, however, have never heard of the California Catch-22.
- The Advantage of an S Corp over an LLC
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] It goes without saying that the LLC is the media darling when it comes to choosing an entity for small businesses. In some cases, however, an LLC is at a disadvantage compared to an S Corporation.
- Claiming An Infringement On Your Domain Name
[Legal:Cyber-Law] A domain name is your address on the web, which can make it vitally important. So, what do you do when someone tries to move onto your yard?
- Legal Issues When Hiring Someone to Build Your Site
[Legal:Cyber-Law] Given the costs associated with hiring employees, a vast majority of businesses now hire independent contractors to build and/or maintain their websites. This raises a host of legal issues.
- Buying A Website – Problems with Intellectual Property
[Legal:Cyber-Law] There are many ways to make money online including buying another website that may be a competitor or compliment to yours. When doing so, you need to watch out for IP problems.
- Defaulting Into A Business General Partnership
[Legal] When it comes time to start a business, many people just get on with the process without really thinking about issues like taxes, liability and business entities. This can lead to unintended consequences.
- Constitution Challenge to Online Gaming Ban
[Legal:Cyber-Law] Online gaming has been incredibly popular, particularly the various forms of poker. That all changed in 2006 when the federal government effectively banned a majority of online gaming. The gaming industry is finally fighting back.
- How to Pick Promotional Items for Your Business
[Business:Marketing] There are a few basic staples of promotional items - pens, pencils, notepads - but how to pick promotional for your business that will really stand out among the rest is another matter.
- Unusual Promotional Products Produce Results!
[Business:Marketing] Every company knows, to a certain extent, that promotional items are one of the best ways to advertise their product or service - but, do unusual promotional products work better than the average item?
- What Is A Promotional Item?
[Business:Marketing] We have all seen the little things that some companies give out to their customers and prospective customers - pens, and other small items - but what is a promotional item and what can it do?
- Why Custom Promotional Products are Best
[Business:Marketing] Promotional products are a good way to get customers to notice you - and can be as simple as a piece of candy or other small object - but here's why custom promotional products are best.
- How To Use Corporate Gifts
[Business:Marketing] Even if you can define what corporate gifts are - you may have even more trouble answering the following question: how to use corporate gifts to your company's best advantage.
- What are Corporate Gifts?
[Business:Marketing] You may already know that promotional items are an important part of advertising your company and getting the word out, but what are corporate gifts and how do they help promote your company?
- Giving Your Customers Value Through Promotional Gifts
[Business:Marketing] It is easy to see the value of promotional items for the business providing them - advertising, and keeping touch with a customer base - but what about giving your customers value through promotional gifts?
- What Exactly Are Promotional Items?
[Business:Marketing] While most people will have received a promotional item at one point in their careers, the question of what exactly are promotional items can be a bit trickier - as they can be almost any business item.
- Help Your Sales With Promotional Products
[Business:Marketing] Finding that your customer base is shrinking, or that your sales might not be as high as they should this time of year can be tough - so it is a great idea to help your sales with promotional products.
- Why Use Product Promotions?
[Business:Marketing] We all know that one of the most important parts of advertising is getting your name out to prospective customers - but why use product promotions for that purpose instead of a different method?
- North Dakota Trails for Bird Watching
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] When looking for some of the best birding in North America, look no further than North Dakota. Many bird enthusiasts travel on North Dakota birding trails to experience the large numbers of unique bird species seen here.
- Bird Watching in Puerto Rico
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Tourists come to Puerto Rico throughout the year, most often from cruise ships. While there are many things to do while on the island, birding in Puerto Rico definitely should not be missed.
- Digital Cameras for Bird Watching
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Birds are notoriously difficult to great photos of. For avid bird watchers, are digital birding cameras the way to go?
- Bird Watching in Big Sur, California
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Located south of Monterey in California, the Andrew Molera State Park is home to the Big Sur River Mouth. Although the name might not be familiar, many travel here for the excellent opportunities that Big Sur birding brings.
- Bird Watching in Ontario Canada
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] With over 473 species to search for, Ontario birding is some of the best in Canada. Whether you are looking for the province bird, the Common Loon, or another beautiful flying creature, Ontario is an ideal choice for birding.
- Practical Differences between LLCs and Corporations
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] When considering business entities, it can be easy to lose the forest for the trees. Half the battle is simply understanding the different language used for LLCs and corporations.
- Rock Climbing On A Cruise?
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] If you are a person who likes adventure that is a bit mixed up, like eating a peanut butter and fried banana sandwich, how about a rock climbing cruise? Yep, it really exists to some extent.
- Climbing and Aching Joints
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] Aching joint and climbing go together like salt and pepper. This is a pretty accepted thing, but it doesn’t have to be that bad with a little preparation and common sense.
- Pros of Rock Climbing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] There are many positives of rock climbing. Most people view these benefits as far outweighing the possibility of injury.
- The Regs of Rock Climbing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] The main regs for rock climbing involve the use of common sense. There are other more concrete rules associated with the sport.
- Rock Climbing Is Not Just For Men
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] Rock Climbing began as a man's sport. This has changed in recent years as ever increasing numbers of women have become involved.
- The Origins of Rock Climbing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] The history of climbing is a recent history. Unlike many sports, climbing does not date back to ancient times. People tended to climb the steep faces of rocky cliffs only when they had to and now they do it because they want to do it.
- How to Set Up a Fly Fishing Rod
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] The first thing most people learn in fly fishing is how to tie flies, but learning to set up your rod should really be the first step.
- Fly Fishing in Southern California
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fly fishing in Southern California is definitely a matter of finding the right spots. With all the urban sprawl, that isn’t necessarily the easiest thing to do.
- Tarpon Fly Fishing in Florida
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fly fishing for trout? Salmon? Bah! For a different experience, it is all about tarpon fly fishing in Florida.
- East Tennessee Fly Fishing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Tennessee is flush with streams and rivers. This makes fly fishing spots plentiful, particularly in East Tennessee.
- Fly Fishing at Lake Taupo
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Sometimes, fly fishing is all about heading off to a foreign and exotic locale. Fly fishing at Lake Taupo is one such example.
- Fly Fishing in Virginia
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Given the beauty of Virginia, it is hardly surprising to find outdoor activities high on the list of things to do. Fly fishing in Virginia is a particularly good time.
- Testing Your Solar Panels
[Home-Improvement] Many people think you just throw up some solar panels and bask in the electricity. Well, that is true, but it helps to test them to make sure things are working efficiently.
- Common Problems with Solar Panels
[Home-Improvement] The panels are up. The sun is out. No electricity is being produced. Arrrg! Let's talk about some of nominal problems you might run across with your solar panels.
- China Jumps Into The Solar Industry
[News-and-Society:Energy] China is growing economically in leaps and bounds, which means it needs energy. Jumping into the solar power industry, it is both producing systems cheaply and using them.
- Flexing Solar Panels
[News-and-Society:Energy] Large, bulky fixed structures are what most people think of when it comes to solar panels. These days, small flexible solar panels are readily available for powering all typos of electronics.
- What Can Go Wrong with Solar Panels?
[Home-Improvement] Solar panels are unique among energy platforms in that they are fairly simple. Still, you can have issues with them, so let’s point out common problem areas.
- What Does It Cost To Put Up Solar Panels?
[Home-Improvement] If you are going to take advantage of solar energy, you need to know the full cost. Next to the purchase price, putting them up is the second biggest expense.
- Who Came Up With The Solar Panel
[News-and-Society:Energy] The solar panel has come a long way, but what about its origins. Specifically, who came up with the idea of the solar panel?
- South Florida Light Tackle Fishing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] As you might guess, South Florida offers just a few fishing opportunities. Here is an overview on South Florida light tackle fishing.
- Lake Michigan Fishing Charters
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Lake Michigan offers excellent fishing for novices and experts alike. The best way to hit it is on one of the many Lake Michigan fishing charters.
- Lake Huron Fishing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] There are lakes you can fish on and then there is Lake Huron. Lake Huron fishing is some of the best in both the states and the world.
- Identifying Bamboo Fishing Rods
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] If you are going to fish, your rod is critical. Bamboo rods are unique and excellent. Of course, identifying bamboo fishing rods is another issue.
- Bahamas Fishing Vacation
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] The weather is turning warm, which means a fishing trip is in order. A Bahamas fishing vacation is a blast for you and the family.
- Hudson River - Striped Bass Fishing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] It wasn't that long ago that the idea of fishing the Hudson River was laughable. Now, striped bass fishing on the Hudson is definitely a go.
- Aruba Fishing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] There is local fishing and then there is something a bit more exotic. In this case, we are talking about Aruba fishing.
- Lake Hubbard Fishing Resort
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] The weather is warming up, which means it is time for some fishing. If Michigan is your destination, you can't do worse than the Lake Hubbard Fishing Resort.
- Fishing in Homer - Alaska
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Alaska is the last great outdoors refuge, which means there is unique hunting and fishing opportunities. Let's talk about fishing in Homer, Alaska.
- Fishing Skiffs
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] If you are going to head out on the water for a bit of fishing, you need the right equipment. One of the more basic things you will need is to choose among fishing skiffs.
- Branding with Promotional Products
[Business:Branding] Branding is the rather subtle art of getting your business name out in front of the buying public. Branding with promotional products is an excellent way to achieve this goal.
- Using Promotional Products In Drip Marketing
[Business:Marketing] Drip marketing is one of the greatest forms of marketing around today. Marketing to a captive prospect database always leads to sales, particularly if you use promotional items.
- Effectively Using Promotional Products
[Business:Marketing] As a business, you are always looking for that edge to push sales figures up. A time-tested and effective method of getting the edge is to use promotional products.
- Disadvantages of Alternative Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] Alternative energy would seem like a good choice for new home builders and people who are in the market to buy a new automobile. There are disadvantages of alternative energy that realistically need to be considered.
- Advantage of Alternative Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] The ongoing discussion about energy is one that can be polarizing. So, just what is the advantage of alternative energy over fossil fuels?
- Alternative Energy for Vehicles
[News-and-Society:Energy] Alternative energy for vehicles has come a long way, but unfortunately we are not yet at a point where we can go without gasoline. Hybrid cars, however, are the first step to the future.
- How Alternative Energy Works
[News-and-Society:Energy] How alternative energy works is not a new concept. In fact, people have been using hydro-power for over 2000 years to grind grain and power saw mills.
- Why is Alternative Energy Good?
[News-and-Society:Energy] Why is alternative energy good for our environment? Alternative energy is classified as a clean energy that produces little to none of the hazardous emissions that come from other energy sources like burning coal or wood.
- Where Is Your Tax Refund Check?
[Finance:Taxes] They often say you can find a silver lining with just about everything. In the case of filing your taxes, getting a refund is definitely the silver lining. That, of course, assumes you get one.
- Married Couples Beat The Estate Tax
[Finance:Taxes] Next to the Alternative Minimum Tax, the Estate Tax is one of the more brutal taxes we have. If you are married, you can get around it.
- Income Tax Deductions For Estates
[Finance:Taxes-Income] They say death and taxes are the only two things you can count on. Unfortunately, dying is taxable. Who would have thunk it?
- Deducting Bonuses Paid To Employees
[Finance:Taxes] Getting bonuses is a tremendous event. Unfortunately, they are taxable. As a business owner, however, you can deduct bonuses paid.
- Deductions For Salespeople
[Finance:Taxes] A discussion of tax deductions is great and all, but most people want to know about their specific situation. The tax deductions for salespeople are covered here.
- Deducting Care Of The Elderly
[Finance:Taxes] As a society, we are growing older. This means many more people must care for the elderly in their family. Fortunately, some of the expense associated with the care is deductible.
- IRS Warns Taxpayers of Fake Sites
[Finance:Taxes] Scam artists are really pushing the envelope these days on the web. The IRS is warning taxpayers that fake IRS websites have been set up in an effort to trick people into providing information that can be used for identity theft.
- What Are Professional Corporations?
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Many professionals are barred from forming limited liability companies or basic corporations for their practices. Instead, their only option is often to form a professional corporation.
- Charge Controllers for Home Solar Systems
[Home-Improvement] Energy prices are rising. Many people are fighting back by using solar power systems for their homes. If you are thinking of doing the same, you may need to know about charge controllers.
- The Fundamental Elements of Wind Turbines
[News-and-Society:Energy] Wind power is the fastest growing renewable energy platform in the world. Ah, but just how do wind turbines work. Well, you have to understand the key components.
- Solar - Off Grid or On Grid?
[News-and-Society:Energy] If you are considering solar as a renewable energy system for your home, one of the decisions you will have to make is whether to be on grid or off grid.
- How Solar Cells Are Manufactured
[News-and-Society:Energy] Solar power is being touted as one of the solutions to the energy needs of a hungry world. This brings up the rather fundamental question of how solar cells are actually manufactured.
- 2.2 Billion Dollars in Unclaimed Tax Refunds About To Expire
[Finance:Taxes] For all the complaining about taxes, it is rather amazing that taxpayers leave so much money on the table each year. The IRS recently announced that 2.2 billion dollars in refunds are about to expire unclaimed.
- Reporting Foreign Financial Accounts
[Finance:Taxes] If you are a US citizen, it is important to know that you must report the presence of any foreign financial accounts you have per IRS rules and regulations.
- Tax Deductions You Might Have Missed
[Finance:Taxes] As April 15th draws ever closer, many taxpayers are starting to actively hunt for tax deductions to lower their bill to Uncle Sam. Here are a few that many people miss out on.
- Common Tax Credits You Might Be Eligible to Claim
[Finance:Taxes] The trick to minimizing your tax pain is to reduce your gross income as much as possible. Tax credits are one of the more powerful tools for doing this.
- Drinking Vodka in Russia
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you are going to be traveling to Russia, you probably have been warned about the custom of drinking vodka. There is a lot of hype about it, but here are the facts.
- Meeting Russian Women While in Russia
[Travel-and-Leisure] It always amazes me when I surf the web and see all the sites providing information on Russian brides. If you are going to Russia, you are probably wondering what Russian women are like.
- Will The Russians You Meet in Russia Be Unfriendly?
[Travel-and-Leisure] Russia is a complex country that has developed a unique culture all its own. Part and parcel to this culture is the fact many people have the impression Russians are unfriendly. Is it true?
- The Peculiar Task of Packing for a Backpack Trip to Russia
[Travel-and-Leisure] For many, the idea of backpacking through Europe is the perfect vacation. For the more adventurous, backpacking through Russia sounds a bit more compelling.
- Travel Clothing – What to Take on Your Trip
[Travel-and-Leisure] Traveling out of town is definitely a must whenever you can do it. Ah, but what clothing should you take on your trip?
- Kick Start Your Life By Traveling
[Travel-and-Leisure] Sooner or later, being an adult can really be a bummer. All the responsibility can get to you. Throw in the monotony of a 9 to 5 job, and you can find yourself in a big rut. Time to travel!
- Critical, Common Sense Travel Tips
[Travel-and-Leisure] Traveling is a great way to experience new places and meet people with a different view of things. That being said, there are some common sense steps you should take to make sure your trip goes okay.
- Dealing with Client Problems
[Business] If you own a business, sooner or later you are going to run into a situation where you screw something up. This situation can be an opportunity or disaster all depending on how you handle it.
- Selling Equity In Your Business to Raise Funds
[Business] Whether you are just starting a new business or need a cash infusion, the idea of selling an ownership interest will come to mind at some point. The question is whether this is a good idea or not.
- Top Tax Scams for 2007 According to IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Every year, the IRS issues a list of the top tax scams the agency is seeing. Known as the "dirty dozen," here are some highlights of the 2007 list.
- Early Retirement Distributions and Tax Consequences
[Finance:Taxes] If you participate in a retirement plan, you can start distributing money at 59 and half years of age. Ah, but what are the tax consequences if you do so at an earlier age?
- Industrial Giants Now Worried About Global Warming
[News-and-Society:Environmental] The debate on global warming, what is left of it, is often categorized as the far left versus business. Such a characterization is incorrect as shown by the US Climate Action Partnership.
- A Key Step For New Business Owners
[Business] Many a guru has opined on the keys to business success. While everyone has an opinion, I am going to focus on a more practical step you can take that will make a big difference.
- Looking to the Ocean for Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] As fossil fuels become a more limited resource, society is casting around for new energy sources. Interestingly, a lot of interest in the ocean as an energy platform is starting to be generated.
- Solar Panels for Homes in Cold Climates
[Home-Improvement] Solar power is one of the more promising forms of renewable energy. Ah, but is it still promising for those people that live in a cold climate?
- Taxes For Gamblers
[Finance:Taxes] The federal government wants their hunk of meat regardless of how you earn money. This is true even if you don’t think of it as working, such as when you are gambling.
- Avoid Common Business Start-Up Mistakes
[Business] If you are considering starting up a business, you are facing both an exciting and stressful time. To succeed, you should avoid the common mistakes many new business owners make.
- Documenting Decisions With Your LLC
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] The limited liability company is a popular business entity choice for small businesses. One reason is the lack of formality, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t document certain decisions.
- Google's Great Tax Escape
[Finance:Taxes] Less than 10 years old, Google has burst onto the scene like few companies in modern times. Now it is learning to throw around its weight when it comes to tax issues.
- Alimony, Child Support and Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Society seems to change daily as time passes. The once proud institution of marriage has definitely taken a hit. With roughly half of all marriages failing, tax issues have to be addressed.
- Beware the Part Time Tax Preparer
[Finance:Taxes] If there is something people enjoy less than preparing their tax returns, it is hard to imagine. If you look to another to do the job, be very careful who you pick.
- Types of Income that are Not Taxable
[Finance:Taxes] As you know, the income you earn is taxed by the government. Alas, not all income is treated the same. In fact, some is considered off limits and is not taxed at all.
- You Can Trademark a Lot More Than You Think
[Legal:Trademarks] Discussing a trademark in general is often difficult. Why? It has to do with the fact that you can trademark many things that are unique and entirely different.
- The Role of Trademarks
[Legal:Trademarks] Once you start conducting business, you are going to start running into the topic of intellectual property and trademarks. Understanding the role of a trademark will help you grasp why they are important.
- International Trademarks and the Madrid Protocol
[Legal:Trademarks] Protecting your logo and so on with a trademark is a smart move. Ah, but what about protecting it in the United States AND internationally?
- Can You Trademark Your Business Name?
[Legal:Trademarks] A trademark is a distinctive image, word or other thing that associates with a product or service. So, can you trademark your business name?
- Using A Mark You Cannot Trademark-Be Careful
[Legal:Trademarks] When coming up with a logo or mark, there are plenty of options. Sometimes, people make a choice that cannot be trademarked and this leads to problems.
- When a Corporation or LLC Does Not Provide Liability Protection
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Most people form and use business entities for one primary purpose – to protect themselves from personal liability for the debts of the business. This protection, however, can be lost.
- Hydrogen and the Fuel Cell of Tomorrow
[News-and-Society:Energy] Any discussion of renewable energy platforms always manages to wind its way back to the concept of using hydrogen for fuel. More specifically, in the form of fuel cells.
- Cut Heating Costs By Using Indirect Gain In Your Home Design
[Real-Estate:Building-a-Home] Heating costs are pretty high these days and only expected to get higher in the future as fossil fuels become more scarce. Incorporate indirect gain in your home design and you will save a bundle.
- Sketch To Improve Your Bird Watching Skills
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Read most guides on bird watching and you will be inundated with information on binoculars and photographing. With birding, sketching is a better way to go.
- Indispensable Birding Equipment For Exotic Locals
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If you get into bird watching, there is a chance you will get really hooked. If so, there is one piece of equipment you must have, but probably haven't thought of.
- Learning to Kiss the Rock or Buy A New Kayak
[Recreation-and-Sports:Extreme] Paddling a river is an immense joy because you get an intimate feel of the power of nature below you in the flowing water. Ah, but what if mother nature throws you a curve?
- Getting In and Out of Eddies When Kayaking
[Recreation-and-Sports:Extreme] If you are just getting into kayaking, you should know that eddies are your friend. No, eddie is not a person. It is a natural rest stop on a river.
- Kayaking From One Side of the River to the Other
[Recreation-and-Sports:Extreme] There you are standing on the shore. A hundred feet across the river on the other shore sit your buddies. And they have the food and beverages! How do you get across?
- What State Taxes Can Businesses Deduct
[Finance:Taxes] If you run a business, you are looking for as many deductions as possible to knock down the tax you have to pay. Following are some highlights of the taxes you can deduct that are collected by anyone other than the federal government.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid on Your Tax Return
[Finance:Taxes] Preparing your tax return is a task similar to mating with an elephant. It takes a long time, there is a lot of yelling and you usually have a headache by the end. All of this can lead to mistakes on your return.
- Running a Corporation – Shareholders and Directors
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] If you form a corporation for a business, it can become very confusing when the issue of running the actual business arises. For instance, what is the difference between shareholders and directors?
- Incorporating with an Incorporator
[Legal] Deciding to form a business entity is often a wise choice for most businesses. What seems simple can quickly become confusing given all the legal jargon.
- Basic Advice on Dealing With Jet Lag
[Travel-and-Leisure] Jet lag can put a real crimp in the first few days of your trip. To avoid it, there are some basic steps you can take so your first couple days are not miserable.
- Dealing With Long Flights
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you are going to explore exciting and interesting foreign lands, you have to get there. This almost always means sitting on a long flight.
- Improve Your Home Energy Use with Trees
[Home-Improvement] Nothing can be more annoying than trying to cut high utility bills. Many people just give up and assume there isn’t much they can do about it. In truth, a couple of trees can make a big difference.
- The Popular Types of Renewable Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] One can’t go far these days without discussions of energy issues arising. Renewable energy sources are part of that discussion, but what exactly are the types available?
- Building a Home to Incorporate Passive Solar Heating
[Real-Estate:Building-a-Home] As global warming and fuel prices encroach upon our daily lives, renewable energy sources are gaining a lot of attention. Solar is one form of renewable energy you can incorporate into a new home without using panel systems.
- Things to Check Before Going Birding
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If you enjoy bird watching, sooner or later you are going to be heading out on field trips. While they can be a blast, there are a couple of things to check up on before you head out.
- Things To Take When Bird Watching
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Once you get hooked on bird watching, you will start getting up early and heading out on field trips. You will see have some tremendous sightings, but you need to take some things will you.
- Staying Comfortable When Bird Watching
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] The early bird gets the worm, a cliché that rings true in nature. If you are going to head off for some bird watching, you need to go early and stay comfortable.
- A Guide to River Obstructions
[Recreation-and-Sports:Extreme] As you probably know, most rivers do not just flow unimpeded. There are obstructions that force the water to flow out and around them. These obstructions can be rocks, sandbars, trees and just about anything that can stand up to the force of the water. When kayaking a river, obstructions are your friends.
- Kayaking with the Flow
[Recreation-and-Sports:Extreme] If you are taking up kayaking, you need to become one with the flow. No, I am not talking about Star Wars. I am talking about the motion of the water in your river of choice.
- Understanding River Rapid Classifications
[Recreation-and-Sports:Extreme] There is something about rapids on a river that make people excited. Oh, yeah. I gotta try that! Before you hop into the river on a kayak, raft, canoe or branch, you need to take a minute to understand river classifications.
- Strange and Bizarre Tax Deductions
[Finance:Taxes] It was Albert Einstein who said physics was easy compared to trying to prepare his taxes. You probably feel the same way. The tax code is full of oddities, and here are a few that will make you roll your eyes.
- Do You Have To File A Tax Return?
[Finance:Taxes] The general assumption is that everyone must file a tax return each year. This is not entirely true. In some situations, an individual or married couple need not file.
- What To Do On Your San Diego Vacation
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] San Diego is one of the top vacation destinations in the country. If you are planning a trip to our city, here are some things you should consider doing while here.
- Best Times to Visit San Diego on Vacation
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] San Diego is a favorite destination for tourist because of the climate and beaches. That being said, there are better times than others to visit the city.
- S-Corporations – State and Tax Issues
[Business] More than a few people prefer to form corporations to protect their businesses, but look for a more favorable tax situation. The answer, of course, is the S-corporation.
- Pros and Cons of Being a Limited Liability Company
[Business] Limited liability companies are the popular new choice for business start-ups. The "LLC" has only been in existence for roughly 26 years and there are some definite pros and cons.
- IRS Offers Free State Sales Tax Deduction Calculator
[Finance:Taxes] If you itemize your deductions, you may be in for a windfall on this years tax. Yep, Congress has renewed the optional sales tax deduction. Of course, you have to figure it out.
- IRS Auditing Those Abusing Telephone Tax Refund
[Finance:Taxes] As you probably know by now, courts have ruled the IRS incorrectly collected a certain long-distance telephone tax. The IRS has implemented a refund program for people to recover the tax.
- Understanding the Close Corporation
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] If ever there was a misunderstood business entity, it is the close corporation. Most people have heard of them, but have no idea what they are. Well, the answer is pretty simple.
- Should You Use A Fictitious Business Name
[Legal] When forming a business, it is often difficult to come up with a name. Many people just use their personal name, but a fictitious business name filing provides other opportunities.
- Guide To Sole Proprietorships
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Many people starting a business have little knowledge or interest in business entities and thus become sole proprietors. There are pros and cons to this approach.
- Didn't Get A W-2 From Your Employer?
[Finance:Taxes] Working for an employer has its perks. One of them is you get a W-2 summarizing your earnings and taxes paid. But what if your employer didn’t issue one to you?
- Didn't Get An Expected 1099-MISC Form?
[Finance:Taxes] If you are an independent contractor, you should receive a 1099-MISC form from businesses that paid you more than $600 for your services. Ah, but what if you don't receive one?
- Understanding the Basics of Business Tax Deductions
[Finance:Taxes] When going through the great task of doing taxes for a business, you can easily get trained to a tax philosophy. Specifically, you will always start asking if something is deductible.
- Tax Credits and Deductions
[Finance:Taxes] Your goal when preparing your taxes is to try to reduce your gross as much as possible. Tax credits and deductions are the tools you use to cut your gross down.
- Things Travelers Need to Know About Costa Rica
[Travel-and-Leisure] Costa Rica is an absolutely tremendous travel destination for travelers to Central America. If you are going, there are some basic things you need to know about the country.
- Birding-How To Identify Bird by Silhouette
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Bird watching is a great low cost hobby that is both serene and a great way to learn to appreciate nature. Of course, you have to figure out how to identify the birds you see.
- Fly Fishing in Yellowstone
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Despite the media frenzy about Yellowstone being a super volcano, it is still one of the truly beautiful places in the world. Oh, I should probably mention the fly fishing is good as well.
- Tips That Will Help Your Climbing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] A few helpful tips are always worth their weight in gold when you start learning something new. While they may not be gold, here are some climbing tips you should consider.
- Getting Edgy While Rock Climbing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] Most people think rock climbing is a fairly edgy sport just to begin with. In truth, edges mean something entirely different and unique to the sport.
- Checklist for Going Into Business for Yourself
[Business] If you are considering going into business for yourself, it makes absolute sense to be as prepared as possible. Here is a checklist of things you need to consider.
- Should You Start A Business With A Friend?
[Business] Starting a business is a scary and exciting time. It takes a leap of faith, but also offers up the hope of successfully doing something you love. Still, there are things to be wary of.
- Strange Things About Different Business Entities
[Legal] If you are contemplating forming an entity for your business, there is a lot of information to consider. Here are some of the more esoteric things you will not see discussed in most how to guides.
- The Misunderstood World of Corporate Minutes
[Legal] The corporation is the most used form of business entity in the United States. While many people form the entity, most don't understand the corporate minute requirements.
- Partnerships Compared to Limited Liability Partnerships
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] There are a variety of ways to structure the formation of a business. Partnerships and limited liability partnerships are two of the choices.
- Corps Compared to Limited Liability Companies
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] If you start a business, you should strongly consider forming an entity to protect you from liability. Corporations and limited liability companies are two of the more popular choices.
- Active vs. Passive Solar For Your Home
[Home-Improvement] Mention renewable energy and solar power is bound to come up. For most people, however, solar power is one thing. In reality, there are two different approaches.
- Democratic Congress Goes After Big Oil On Tax Issues
[News-and-Society:Pure-Opinion] As the Democrats took control of the House and Senate in Congress, they promised a flurry of legislation in the first 100 hours of office. One of the efforts was to go after big oil.
- Finding Someone to Prepare Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] The tax code and regulations are incredibly complex, but you are assumed to know and understand them all. How scary is that? Unless you have a very simple tax situation, professional help is the way to go.
- The Giant Tax Gap and What It Means For You
[Finance:Taxes] Keeping up on the latest tax news is probably pretty low on your list of things to do. The continual discuss of a huge tax gap, however, is something you should pay attention to.
- Canada's Tax Cheat Internet Spider-US Version Next?
[Finance:Taxes] Oh, Canada! In case you haven't heard, Canada is going after tax cheats in a very unique way using the Internet. If the effort is successful, one has to wonder how long it will be before the IRS follows suit.
- 2006 Education Tax Deductions You Should Know About
[Finance:Taxes] It is rather ironic that we spend billions of dollars on other countries, but paltry sums on our own education system. Still, the federal government is offering a few tax incentives this year.
- 2006 Tax Credits and Deductions You Should Know About
[Finance:Taxes] As April 15th draws every closer, it is time to start thinking about how you are going to reduce your tax bill. Here are a couple of ways most people miss out.
- A Unique Strategy for Limited Partnerships
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] General partnerships are often frowned upon as a business entity because they expose the partners to all kinds of liability exposure. The limited partnership may offer a solution to this problem.
- Problems with Friends Forming A Corporation or LLC
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] There is a cliché that you should never go into business with your friends because they will soon become former friends. This is particularly true with business entity formations.
- China Taking the Lead In Renewable Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] There is little doubt that China is a country coming into its own. With a massive population, the country is starting to wake up and grow economically. Of course, it needs power to make that happen.
- Making Solar Power Cheaper Through Net Metering
[News-and-Society:Energy] Solar power is a renewable energy source that is extremely popular, but has a cost problem. Net metering is a concept the government is currently using to offset this problem.
- The Nanotechnology Solar Cell Revolution
[News-and-Society:Energy] There is little debate that we need to wean ourselves off of fossil fuels, but the costs of renewable energy platforms such as solar make it difficult. Nanotechnology definitely offers the answer.
- The Massive Tehachapi Wind Farm
[News-and-Society:Energy] When people think of wind power as a renewable energy, they tend to envision images of a couple of wind turbines twirling in the wind. The Tehachapi Wind Farm is an example of wind power on a large scale.
- Wind Power Grows Massively In US in 2006
[News-and-Society:Energy] Much of the discussion of renewable energy sounds great, but what are the practical numbers? Well, wind power started to show tangible results in 2006 in the US.
- Identity Theft Can Cause IRS Problems for You
[Finance:Taxes] As the internet grows as a business medium, identity theft is becoming a bigger problem by the week. Most people, however, don’t realize it can cause you problems with the IRS.
- The IRS Says You Owe Money, But You Disagree
[Finance:Taxes] Hard as it is to believe, employees at the IRS are humans just like you and me. This means they make mistakes and you need to let them know when this occurs.
- The IRS Says You Made Math Errors - Good News
[Finance:Taxes] Like Pavlov’s dogs, we all habitually collect the mail each day. Ah, but what if you get a notice letter from the IRS contesting the math on your tax return?
- Basic Steps to Avoid Identity Theft
[Legal:Identity-Theft] In the modern digital world, identity theft is a serious concern. Avoiding identity theft is all about using your common sense.
- Microsoft Busted on Paid Wikipedia Modification
[Legal:Cyber-Law] Wikipedia has become one of those odd internet sites that have evolved into a phenomenon. Alas, some companies don't like what is written about them.
- YouTube In Trouble for 24 Television Show Postings
[Legal:Copyright] Google must be wondering what it has gotten itself into. YouTube is in trouble again after receiving a subpoena from Fox for posting episodes of the show 24.
To say that Fox executives must be unhappy is a slight understatement. Talk about stealing the winds out of the channel’s sails! One of the biggest nights for the show was pre-empted! Well, Fox isn’t taking the situation laying down.
- Identity Theft Problems for TJ Max and Marshalls Customers
[Legal:Identity-Theft] When it comes to identity theft, there are many ways for thieves to get their hands on your information. If you shopped at TJ Max or Marshalls recently, you may have a problem.
- Norway to Ban Itunes Downloads Online?
[Legal:Cyber-Law] When it comes to downloading music on the web in a legal fashion, Itunes is the undisputed leader. Well, maybe not in Norway...
- Be Aware of Single Owner LLC Tax Problems
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] One of the more popular business entity choices these days is the limited liability company. If you intend to be the only owner, you need to understand something about a tax issue.
- Fly Fishing on the Snake River
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] If you are a fly fishing enthusiast, you are always looking for that perfect trip. The Snake River offers plenty of spots you will find simply incredible.
- The Mojo on Bamboo Fly Rods
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] The first time you venture into the wilderness of fly fishing, you are going to notice something strange. The fly rods are much different than other forms of fishing.
- A Primer on Fly Fishing Reels
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] If you are getting into fly fishing, it is easy to lose yourself in the great debate on rods and flies. Not so fast. The reel is just as important, so here is a primer.
- Quick Guide to Flies Used for Fly Fishing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fly fishing is a niche area for the overall sport of fishing. Unlike niches in other sports, it is very unique when compared to the more popular angling.
- Ice Climbs Near Anchorage, Alaska
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] Alaska is the last great wild wilderness of America. It also happens to be a great place to have a go at some ice climbs that will make your legs do the Elvis.
- Getting Into Ice Climbing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] If you enjoy rock climbing, winters can be problematic since most of your favorite climbs aren’t exactly accessible. Ice climbing may just be the answer to your problem.
- Basic Rock Climbing Terminology
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] If you get the climbing bug, you are entering a unique niche of people. Much like visiting another country, you need to get down some of the lingo being used.
- Focus When Rappelling
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] As you progress in your climbing, you are going to be reaching higher and higher heights. To get down from your successful climb, you are going to have to rappel.
- Getting a Grip on Rock Climbing Shoes
[Recreation-and-Sports:Sports-Apparel] The first time you go rock climbing, you probably wore your basic hiking shoes. When you are ready to get serious about the sport, you need to consider upgrading.
- Getting a Tax ID Number for a Business Entity
[Legal] If you are going into business, the smart move is almost always to form a business entity to protect you from lawsuits. If you take this step, you need to get a tax identification number for the entity.
- The Alternative Minimum Tax Catch-22
[Finance:Taxes] If there is one tax that drives people nuts, it is the alternative minimum tax. Ironically, it may be the one piece of the tax code that forces a complete re-writing of the tax code.
- Tax Info for Those Married or Divorced in 2006
[Finance:Taxes] 2006 may have been a momentous year for those of you involved in relationships. If you married or divorced during the year, your tax situation changed whether you know it or not.
- Personal Guarantees for Corporate Leases
[Legal] If you take down a lease for a business, the lease agreement will shock you. It is the size of a small phone book, and the most important page is usually buried in the back.
- Selling Equity in Your Corporation
[Business] If you are smart, you will form a business entity for your business start up. The question, however, is how do you find investors and what do you sell them in exchange for critically needed money.
- Starting a Business with Multiple Owners
[Legal] Starting a business with multiple owners is fairly commonplace. If you are not careful, however, it can lead to major problems down the line.
- President Bush's Proposed Health Care Tax Deduction
[Finance:Taxes] Nothing is more complex and difficult for politicians to deal with in this country than health care. Well, President Bush is about to enter the fray with a new proposal.
- Moved Since Filing Last Years Taxes?
[Finance:Taxes] We are a migratory society. When we move, each of us goes about the joyous task of trying to get our mail forwarded to our new address. Ah, but what about your taxes?
- Lost Last Year's Tax Return?
[Finance:Taxes] It happens every year. Just when you get motivated to get rolling on your taxes, you realize you can't find the return you filed last year. Aaaarrrrggg!
- Figuring Out Your Tax Return Filing Status
[Finance:Taxes] When you are ready to plop down and start preparing that tax return, one of the first questions is your filing status. Here is an explanation of your choices.
- Interesting Insider Information on the IRS
[Finance:Taxes] If you get behind on your taxes, it can literally ruin your life. You live in fear of the IRS swooping in and taking everything. A recent internal report, however, reveals some interesting things about the IRS.
- IRS Free File Program Available to 95 Million Americans
[Finance:Taxes] Most Americans hate preparing and filing their taxes. To take the sting off of doing them, the IRS free file program enters its third year.
- Understanding How Wind Turbines Generate Power
[News-and-Society:Energy] Whether we like to admit it or not, we are headed for a double whammy – oil and natural gas are running out. When looking at alternatives, wind power is one of the better choices.
- What Is The Corporate Agent for Service of Process
[Legal] When businesses decide to incorporate, there are a lot of issues to confront. One of them is designating the agent for service of process. The problem is most people don’t know what this is!
- Elements of Corporations
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Corporations are the oldest formal business entities we have. Still, many people are confused by the practical things one must have for a corporation.
- When Are 1099-MISC Forms Due
[Finance:Taxes] The dawning of a new year is also the dawning of the beginning of the tax season. One of the first things you need to deal with are 1099 forms.
- Preparing 1099-MISC Forms
[Finance:Taxes] The 1099 tax designation refers to what are known as information returns. The IRS collects them to track revenues paid to individuals. Here is how you fill out the form.
- What Are 1099-MISC Forms
[Finance:Taxes] As you probably know, the IRS has a form for just about everything. Some forms are known as informational, and the 1099-MISC form is one of them.
- Kayaking in Washington State
[Recreation-and-Sports:Extreme] There are some states that lend themselves to kayaking while others do not. Kayaking in Washington State will quickly lead you to conclude Washington is one of the top states for a paddle.
- Kayaking - Indiana
[Recreation-and-Sports:Extreme] When you think of kayaking, you probably do not think of Indiana. If you are in the state, however, kayaking in Indiana may prove to be surprisingly fun.
- National Taxpayer Advocate Tell Congress to Deal with AMT Tax
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS has an office within it that most people are completely unaware of – the national taxpayer advocate. What does the advocate due? The office helps you deal with the IRS when it gets to aggressive.
- Free Tax Help From the IRS
[Finance:Taxes] We are from the government and we are here to help you. Most people would run screaming at this point. In this case, it is good news. The IRS is offer free tax help
- Split Tax Refunds – The IRS Wants You To Save Money
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS is offering a new split tax refund option this year for parties that choose direct deposit for their tax refunds. Why? The agency wants to promote savings.
- Late Tax Changes Mean IRS Forms are Wrong
[Finance:Taxes] There is a general implicit agreement between Congress and the IRS regarding tax changes. Congress agrees to make all tax code changes before November, but broker the agreement this year.
- Sales Tax Deduction Extended to 2006 and 2007
[Finance:Taxes] Traditionally, one has looked to claim the payment of state income taxes as a deduction on federal taxes in one form or another. Recent legislative changes have added sale tax payments into the equation.
- Visiting the Largest Democracy in the World – India
[Travel-and-Leisure] India is the largest democracy in the world because of its population. Until China gives up communism, visiting India is the choice when it comes to seeing democracy in action.
- Visiting the Demilitarized Zone in Korea
[Travel-and-Leisure] Unless you have been living in a cave, you already know about North and South Korea. Well, why not visit the demilitarized zone between the two countries.
- Valencia – The New Hot Spot in Spain
[Travel-and-Leisure] Spain is the second most visited country in the world when it comes to tourism. While Madrid and Barcelona are obvious destinations, Valencia is coming on like gang busters.
- Maintain Sanity by Keeping a Diary
[Self-Improvement] The more gadgets we have to help us get things done, the more life seems to speed up. To keep your sanity in the whirlwind of life, keep a diary.
- New Tax Deductions for Your 2006 Return
[Finance:Taxes] As we start marching towards April 15th, taxes are probably the last thing on your mind. Well, you need to start thinking about them. The good news is you have some new deductions and credits this year.
- The 1099 Deadline Approaches
[Finance:Taxes] As you recover from the holidays and New Years, you probably are going through a bit of a lull. Well, it is time to wake up because a few key tax deadlines are quickly approaching.
- Dealing with Taxes if You Sell on EBay
[Finance:Taxes] In the good old days, the IRS seemed to be unable to deal with the concept of online auction sales. Alas, the good old days are over. If you are an EBay seller, you have to report your earnings.
- Advice On Getting Ready to File Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] As we turn into the new year, hope springs eternal. In other news, it is almost tax season. Here are a few hints to help you get ready and keep the pain of preparing taxes to a minimum.
- Business Entities – Avoid These Pitfalls
[Legal] In our modern society, you can get sued for just about anything. All it costs is a couple hundred dollars to file a lawsuit. If you are starting a business, you need to protect yourself.
- Converting from a C Corp to an S Corp
[Legal] As you may know, there are two types of corporations for tax and legal purposes. The “C” corporation is a more formal structure than the "S" corporation and taxed differently.
- A Profile of Chief Justice John Roberts of the Supreme Court
[Legal] Slowly, but surely, the United States Supreme Court has been transforming to a more conservative philosophy. This transformation is being cemented by Chief Justice Roberts.
- Micro Wind Turbines For Cities
[News-and-Society:Energy] When discussions of renewable energy are undertaken, the focus is often on large scale projects. In truth, the answer may be platforms developed for a more local application.
- The Solar Energy Breakthrough Everyone Missed
[News-and-Society:Energy] When it comes to breaking our oil addiction, solar energy is often sited as a perfect renewable energy platform. There are problems with it from a cost perspective, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.
- Nearly One Million Homes in California to be Powered by Wind
[News-and-Society:Energy] Earlier this year, Texas passed California as the top producer of wind power in the country. California appears poised to take back the title with a huge new project.
- Setting Rules and Regulations at the IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Next to the CIA, there seems to be no more mysterious governmental agency than the IRS. The method used by the agency to set rules and regulations is actually open to the public.
- The Last Minute Tax Changes By Congress
[Finance:Taxes] In a classic case of tax cut and run, the Republican Majority in Congress passed a bevy of tax laws before losing control of the legislative branch. Here is the scoop.
- Avoid Pay Stub and Tax Refund Loans
[Finance:Taxes] What could be better than getting an advance on your tax refund from the good ole IRS? Well, you better give some thought to the fees you are paying for that advance.
- Tax Developments in 2007
[Finance:Taxes] As we turn to 2007, it is almost time to start thinking about the unthinkable. Yep, taxes. So, what developments can we expect to see in 2007 on the tax front?
- The Ecotourism Revolution
[Travel-and-Leisure] In the last 20 years, our understanding and appreciation of the environment and impact we have on it has increased dramatically. Mixed in with a healthy dash of capitalism, this has led to the ecotourism revolution.
- Bird Watching - Food to Attract Birds
[Pets:Birds] Bird watching is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the country. To obtain sightings, you can either go to the birds or try to bring them to you.
- Fly Fishing - Stay Away From The Light
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] When you first start fly fishing, one of the first lessons you will learn is the rules related to light. Simply put, fish stay away from the light.
- Taking Fly Fishing To The Next Level
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Once you catch the bug, fly fishing will become more than something to do every so once in a while. When this happens, it is time to take your fly fishing to the next level.
- When We Pass the Peak Oil Production in the World
[News-and-Society:Energy] Discussions about energy supplies have come front and center these days. While many debate the amount of oil we have left, fewer discuss what happens when we pass our peak production.
- How Much Natural Gas is Left?
[News-and-Society:Energy] Although oil gets the media attention, natural gas also plays a major role in the energy needs of the world. So, how much natural gas is left in the world? The answer may surprise you.
- How Much Oil is Left in the World?
[News-and-Society:Energy] There is no disputing that the industrial revolution and current economies of first world countries run off of fossil fuels such as oil. With rising prices, the question of oil supply is an important one.
- Removing Salt from Water Using Solar Power
[News-and-Society:Energy] As time passes, solar power is becoming a more cost effective and flexible power source. One area where it is being used with little fanfare is desalination of water.
- Getting Rid of Tax Debts in Bankruptcy
[Finance:Taxes] Ask ten people if you can discharge tax debts in bankruptcy and you will get ten different answers. The correct answer is that you can, but only if certain tests are met.
- Dealing with Tax Debt
[Finance:Taxes] While many people fear being audited by the IRS for past tax returns, owing back taxes is actually a more stressful situation. If you owe, there are a couple of ways to deal with the situation.
- Tax Planning Tip for 2007 - Income
[Finance:Taxes] The beginning of a new year is a time for contemplation, reflection and doing a little planning. As 2007 quickly approaches, you need to give some thought to your tax planning for the year.
- IRS Auditing Big Corporations Less?
[Finance:Taxes] An IRS audit is one of those rain day events you hope never comes. For many taxpayers that get audited, a common question is why doesn't the IRS go after bigger corporation that have all the money?
- Making Your Kids Slow Down and Think
[Home-and-Family:Parenting] My, how childhood has changed. Whereas most kids grew up spending time outdoors playing sports and such, today it is all about instant gratification.
- Writing to Preserve 2006
[Writing-and-Speaking] Let’s face it, memory is a hazy thing. Before you know it, the years have passed and you have forgotten key things in your life. Writing out a year end summary is a way to preserve your life.
- Unique Travel Destinations
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you love traveling, you will soon reach a point where you get tired of the usual travel destinations and tourist traps. Yes, some things need to be seen, but unique destinations will soon top your list of things to see.
- Things to See in Venezuela
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you are thinking of heading to South America, Venezuela is a country that should be on your list. Despite what you read in the media, there is little unrest and you should be fine as long as you use common sense.
- Rock Climbing Jargon
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] If you are looking for an inexpensive extreme sport that is pure adrenaline and addicting, rock climbing may be just what you need. When you start out, you are going to need to know some of the following lingo.
- Figuring Out What To Get Dad
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] He clothed you. He worked a job he may not have liked. He kept a roof over your head. Now the holidays are upon us and it is time to figure out what to get him. Who? Dear old dad, of course.
- Cambodia – The Happiest Country in Asia
[Travel-and-Leisure] Given the recent history of Cambodia, you might wonder why I refer to it as the happiest place on earth. Well, there is a real reason if you understand what happy means in Cambodian slang.
- Preserving Your Fishing Experiences
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] The more you fish, the happier you are. So goes the saying. While few of us would dispute this notion, it often helps to keep a record of your fishing exploits to preserve your experiences.
- Fly Fishing Jargon
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fly fishing is one of those outdoor activities that has developed a language all of its own. If you are really going to get hooked, you are going to need some insight in to what people are talking about.
- Things To See In Malaysia
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you are planning on taking a vacation in the near future, I recommend that you travel to Malaysia. Malaysia is a beautiful place to really enjoy yourself. There are plenty of places that you can visit while you are there if you are traveling to site-see.
- Take Expenses Now To Limit Your 2006 Business Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] As we roll towards the end of 2006, you are probably thinking about the holidays and gifts you need to buy. Well, it is also time to give yourself a tax gift.
- Get Your Taxes In Order As The Year Comes To A Close
[Finance:Taxes] If you complain about paying taxes, and who doesn’t, then you need to take steps to limit the pain next April. Yep, you should always make adjustments to your finances at the end of each year.
- Summering In The Winter In San Diego
[Travel-and-Leisure] For those of us that live in San Diego, we all know we have it lucky. If you are looking for a break from the winter months, you might consider a quick trip to San Diego.
- Still Waiting For Your Tax Refund?
[Finance:Taxes] I am constantly amazed when I speak with people and they tell me they are still waiting for tax refund checks after six or twelve months. If you are in this position, you may be in for a surprise.
- Ice Fishing in Russia
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] If you are in Russia during the winter months, you had better be ready for the cold. Even if it is freezing outside, it doesn’t mean you can’t get out and go after a few fish.
- Fishing for Freshwater Fish
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] As you well know, fishing is all about knowing your fishing grounds. Well, you also need to know the fish. Here is a brief summary of common freshwater fish you could go after.
- Try Bird Watching With Your Kids
[Home-and-Family:Parenting] In a world full of video games and little together time, it is hard for families to find time together. Bird watching with your kids is one way to get some fresh air and spend time together.
- An Introduction to Ornithology - Bird Watching
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] We humans are great at giving sophisticated titles to things we enjoy. In fact, here is an introduction to Ornithology, better known as bird watching.
- A Better Approach to Picking Gifts This Year
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Whether you are ready or not, the holidays are upon us this year. This means you need to come up with some cunning gifts for those you are shopping for.
- Saving Energy By Turning Lights Off
[News-and-Society:Energy] The age old adage is you should turn off lights when leaving a room. Ironically, this is not always correct if you are concerned about saving a bit of money on your utility bill.
- Battling Your Utility Bill
[News-and-Society:Energy] As we head into the cold winter months, our energy bills increase dramatically. Fortunately, there are a number of relatively easy steps you can take to cut down on those bills.
- Tax Problems – Procrastinate At Your Peril
[Finance:Taxes] If you are an American, you have to pay taxes. Sometimes it seems like you get it in the pants…err, bank account coming or going. If you get behind on your taxes, things can get a bit more stressed.
- IRS Releases Mileage Rates for 2007
[Finance:Taxes] One of the advantages of working for yourself is you can write off a lot of different expenses to lower your taxable earnings. One deduction that is very popular is business mileage. Any mileage you undertake for business purposes can be converted into a very healthy tax deduction.
- Writing on the Hoof
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Finding inspiration when you are writing is often a haphazard affair. When you are physically ready to write, nothing comes. When you are pumping gas, an epiphany!
- Writing and Focus
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Writing is incredibly enjoyable, but also perplexing. Inevitably, you get the best ideas or breakthroughs when you are nowhere near your computer or pad and paper.
- Shopping For Pants In Siberia - In the Winter
[Travel-and-Leisure] I was living in Siberia for a year in the City of Chita. While it may sound dramatic and exciting, that didn't keep me from needing some basic things like pants!
- Twenty Interesting Tidbits about Germany
[Reference-and-Education] Geographically, Germany sits in the middle of Europe, a fact that has led to a central role in much of European history.
- Ten Interesting Tidbits About Cuba
[Travel-and-Leisure] For such a little island nation, Cuba has certainly played a big part in recent history. Here are ten interesting things about Cuba that you should know.
- How Many People Are Using Solar Panels?
[News-and-Society:Energy] With the renewed interest in alternative power sources, solar power is becoming more popular. So, what are the figures on its use?
- Solar Panels and Your Home
[Home-Improvement] Whether you are going on grid or off grid, solar panels are the foundation of harnessing the power of the sun for heating a home or the water you use.
- Tax Alternatives: The Negative Income Tax
[Finance:Taxes-Income] Nothing gets people more riled up than a discussion of taxes, but what alternatives are there to the current system? The negative income tax is one such possibility.
- Bird Watching Sightings - The Hummingbird
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Bird watching is one of the fastest growing popular hobbies. One of the reasons is it so easy to do since you can sit in your backyard and watch birds such as the hummingbird.
- Act Now to Limit Your 2006 Tax Bill
[Finance:Taxes] Much like the Swallows returning to Capistrano each year, nothing is more consistent than taxpayers grumbling about the amount they owe in April each year. This need not be so.
- Resolving Your Back Taxes Without Talking to the IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Dealing with the IRS when you owe back taxes is a fairly scary thing. The IRS realizes you do not want to talk with its agents and has come up with a solution.
- Whitewater Thrills in Maine
[Travel-and-Leisure] As a New England state, Maine offers a rugged coastline with lots of beauty. This and the internal waterways make grabbing a kayak and exploring the waterways a surreal experience.
- Whitewater Thrills in Costa Rica
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you have never been to Costa Rica, you are missing out. It is an amazing country where you can grab your kayak and explore to your hearts desire.
- Internal Revenue Service Audits
[Finance:Taxes] Pick your favorite scary movie. It could be the first Alien or something else. No matter how scary they were, nothing is scarier than an audit by the Internal Revenue Service.
- A Quick Guide to San Diego Beaches
[Travel-and-Leisure] Most people that visit San Diego come for the beaches and perfect climate. If you are planning a trip, here is the scoop on the beaches, when to come and where to go.
- A Trip to San Diego, California
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you are considering heading to San Diego for a vacation, you are probably planning on sitting on the beach all day long. Well, there are a few other things you should know about.
- Wind Energy - New York
[News-and-Society:Energy] When people think of states using alternative energy, New York probable does not come to mind. In fact, the state is proactive in the area. Here is a guide to wind energy in New York.
- Wind Energy - Ohio
[News-and-Society:Energy] Every time you open up your utility bill, you realize something needs to be done about out oil reliance. Here is a guide to wind energy in Ohio, where something is starting to be done about it.
- Kansas Wind Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] Situated in the heartland of the country, Kansas is a state with lots of wind energy potential. Here is a guide to Kansas wind energy efforts.
- Texas Wind Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] If every there was a state associated with oil, it is Texas. Given this association, many people are surprised to learn wind energy is popular in the state. Here is a guide to Texas wind energy.
- Wind Energy – USA
[News-and-Society:Energy] As oil prices continue to explode, alternative energy is getting a close look in the United States. Here is a guide to wind energy in the USA.
- A Kayak, The Ocean and Oregon – A Perfect Match
[Recreation-and-Sports] Oregon is known for its beautiful, rugged coastline. If you really want to see it from a unique view, grab your kayak.
- Toyota Hybrids and Tax Credits -- Buy Before October 1st
[Automotive] Toyota hybrids were the first on the market and have received boosts from tremendous tax credits that go along with their purchase. Those credits, however, are being reduced on October 1st.
- Shadows and Planning a Passive Solar Structure
[Real-Estate:Building-a-Home] If you are considering building a passive solar home, the configuration on the lot should be a key issue you consider. In simple terms, you need to consider shadows.
- Finding Contractors for Your Home Improvements
[Home-Improvement] You have decided to pursue some home improvements and know you need professional help. Now you just need to figure out how to find quality contractors.
- A Guide to Insulation for Your Home
[Home-Improvement] As energy prices increase, warming and cooling your home is becoming more and more expensive. Upgrading your insulation is one way to fight the increased costs.
- Dealing with Scam Artist Pretending To Be IRS Debt Collectors
[Finance:Taxes] In 2004, the IRS was given the authority to use third party debt collectors to hunt down taxes owed by delinquent taxpayers. Scam artists knew an opportunity when they saw one.
- IRS and Private Debt Collectors
[Finance:Taxes] The terror of most Americans is to be hunted by the IRS for overdue taxes. Well, the terror has evolved a bit as the IRS is now using private debt collectors to do much of the work.
- Wind Energy – Germany
[News-and-Society:Energy] When many people think of German, they think of a large oil based industrial nation. In truth, Germany is a leader in wind energy. Here is a guide to wind energy in Germany.
- Wind Energy - Canada
[News-and-Society:Energy] Canada is known for having wide open spaces, which means plenty of wind. Here is a guide to wind energy in Canada.
- African Wind Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] Given high fossil fuels prices and predictions of limited supplies in the future, wind energy is becoming a popular energy platform. Here is a guide to African wind energy.
- Electric Vehicle Invented
[Automotive] Many say the electric vehicle will never exist, but popular hybrid vehicles are a variation of them. To under electric vehicles, it is prudent to know who and when they were invented.
- Electric Vehicles and How They Work
[Automotive] With all of our oil problems, the idea of the electric vehicle has risen from the ashes. Here is a guide to electric vehicles and how they work.
- Michigan Walleye Trips
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] The Walleye is a tremendously popular sports fish amongst many of us. Michigan Walleye angling is some of the best in the country.
- Montana Angling Trips and Lodges
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Montana is a stunning state for angling enthusiasts. If you are going to explore the angling opportunities, you should stay at one of the many Montana angling lodges.
- Rainbow Trout - Canada
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Canada is known as offering some of the best angling in the world. Rainbow trout angling in Canada is no exception.
- Ausable River Salmon
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Many people list salmon angling at the top of their must do chart. If you do, Ausable River salmon angling is definitely worth your time.
- Sport Angling in Alaska
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] For many angles, nothing beats sport angling. If this describes you, sport angling in Alaska is simply something you need to experience at least once, but as often as you can!
- IRS Sets Telephone Tax Refund Amounts
[Finance:Taxes] In a recent decision, a federal court overturned a telephone tax that has been charged for years. Given the result, the IRS has decided to issue refunds for past collected taxes.
- IRS Fast Track Settlement Program For Businesses
[Finance:Taxes] The tax code is insanely complex. If you are a business having a dispute with the IRS, the fast track settlement program may present you with an option for resolving it quickly.
- IRS Audits and the Percentages
[Finance:Taxes] For most Americans, the mere suggestion of an IRS audit is enough to require the changing of the pants. So, what percent chance do you have of an IRS audit?
- Considering Being an Accountant?
[Business:Careers-Employment] If number crunching, math skills and organization are your strong points, the profession of accounting may be for you. Here is a primer on how.
- Tax Credits for Energy Efficient Air Conditioning In Your Home
[Home-Improvement:Heating-and-Air-Conditioning] The government often tries to influence our behavior through taxes. The tax credit for new energy efficient cooling systems in our homes is one example.
- Straw Bales as a Building Material
[Home-Improvement] If you are considering building your own home, you might be looking to alternative building methods. Straw bales present an option that is becoming more and more popular.
- Hydropower as a Clean Energy Platform
[News-and-Society:Energy] With carbon fuels under supply stress, hydropower presents one functional clean energy alternative. Here is an overview of hydropower and its practical application in modern society.
- Places to Stay in Canada on Fishing Trips
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Canada fishing is some of the best in the world with a wide variety of challenges. If you decide to have a go, you need to know about the best places to stay.
- Salmon Trips in Alaska
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Think of Alaska and you picture cold winters, stunning summers and salmon angling. Okay, you probably think of other things as well, but Alaska angling is all about salmon.
- There Are a Lot of Fish in Florida
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] While there is a rabid nightlife, great watering holes and stunning beaches, Florida was made for angling. Here is the scoop on angling trips in Florida
- Going Piking in Canada
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] The pike is an incredibly aggressive, vicious little bugger that makes for great fights. Canada Northern Pike angling is a great way to experience your first Pike battle.
- Angling for Walleye at Lake Huron
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Lake Huron is a popular rod and reel spot. The Walleye is a popular game fish. Combine them both, and you have paradise for an angler.
- Types of Carbon Fuels
[Reference-and-Education] Any discussion of carbon fuels tends to carry the assumption they are all the same. There are, however, many different types of carbon fuels comprising this energy source.
- History of Carbon Fuels
[Reference-and-Education] Because of carbon fuels, we have gone from a horse and buggy lifestyle to the digital revolution. Understand the history of carbon fuels, and you understand the advancements in our way of life.
- Forming Carbon Fuels
[Reference-and-Education] Currently, there is a great debate in our society surrounding carbon fuels. To understand the issues associated with them, one first needs to understand the process in forming carbon fuels.
- What are Carbon Fuels?
[News-and-Society] In any discussion of energy, the subject of carbon fuels comes quickly to the forefront. Are they good or bad for us? Do they cause global warming? Before entering the debate, just what are carbon fuels?
- Positive Aspects of Carbon Fuels
[News-and-Society] Ah, the evil carbon fuels. Carbon fuels that were once exalted as the power source for the industrial revolution are now demonized because of global warming. There are, however, positive aspects to carbon fuels.
- Birding - Where to Find the Birds
[Pets:Birds] Once you catch the bird watching fever, you are doomed. You will always find yourself looking for new viewing spots. Here is a quick primer on where to find them.
- Moving Expenses – What Can You Deduct?
[Real-Estate:Moving-Relocating] You are moving to a new town to take a job. It is going to cost money to make the move. The question that should come to your mind is whether you can deduct any of this stuff.
- Deducting The Cost of Moving To A New Job
[Finance:Taxes] In our modern society, moving to a new location because of a job is a fairly frequent event. While moving is hardly enjoyable, you do get some deductions out of it.
- Taxes for Day Traders and Investors
[Finance:Taxes] Whether you are an active day trader or just put money into the market for long term gains, taxes are something you need to address. The IRS views traders and investors differently.
- List of Tax Records To Keep
[Finance:Taxes] When preparing your taxes, the goal is obviously to deduct every last penny you can. Many people are amazingly good at it. Just keep in mind you need receipts for the deductions.
- Filing a Joint Tax Return With Your Spouse
[Finance:Taxes] They say the world works on a concept known as balance. To counterbalance the joys of your honeymoon, you get the misery of filing a joint tax return with your spouse.
- Understanding Emissions Trading and Global Warming
[News-and-Society:Economics] It goes without saying that there is often an inherent conflict between science and economies. Emission trading is an interesting effort in the global warming arena.
- Los Angeles Re-Starts Solar Incentives for Homeowners
[Home-Improvement] With massive energy consumption rates, California is in a perpetual energy supply and demand struggle. The state is looking to solar as an alternative and Los Angeles just made it more attractive.
- Save Up Those Frequent Flyer Miles And Go To Space
[Travel-and-Leisure] It would appear that we now have three new planets in the solar system. If you save up a lot of frequent flyer miles, you may be able to go where no man has before with them.
- Understand IRS Real Estate Auctions
[Finance:Taxes] While the IRS will auction off just about anything to satisfy a tax bill, seized real estate gets people excited. Here are the basics of IRS real estate auctions you need to know.
- The Basics of IRS Property Auctions
[Finance:Taxes] Buy a home, car, helicopter, NFL team or whatever for one measly dollar. Ah, we must be talking about IRS property auction hype.
- IRS Updates: Hybrid Tax Credits Following Industry Audit
[Finance:Taxes] The Energy Act of 2005 created major tax credit incentives for people purchasing hybrid vehicles. The IRS has recently concluded the quarterly review of manufacturers and issued tax credit status.
- Malaysian Holidays For Your Travel Itinerary
[Travel-and-Leisure] Located in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a hidden gem for those willing to try something new. One of the best ways to experience the culture is to attend one of the many Malaysian holiday celebrations.
- Backpackers and Brazil
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If you are considering exploring South America, Brazil should be at the top of your list. Brazil is an absolute blast for backpackers given the friendly people and very happy attitude of the culture.
- Backpackers and Colorado
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] From the plains of east Colorado to the Front Range to the soaring Rocky Mountains, Colorado is a slice of paradise for backpackers looking for a diversity of terrain.
- Backpackers and Canada
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Hitting the trails in Canada is practically a national pastime. From glaciers to plunging valleys to raging rivers, Canada is not for the meek, but is something you will never forget.
- Green Gift Baskets Ideas
[Home-and-Family] People have always loved to give gift baskets, but now are looking for greener options. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you green gift basket ideas.
- Air Pollution In California
[Reference-and-Education] Just the other day, I experienced the nauseating sensation of driving down a pass into the air pollution in Los Angeles. We need clean air to be healthy, but these air pollution facts make me ill.
- Wind Farms In The Hawaiian Islands
[Reference-and-Education] The beauty of the Hawaiian Islands is undisputed. If you look closely at the lush green hills, you might just see wind farms producing energy for homes and business at the beach.
- Backpackers and South America
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] From the peaks of the Andes to the steamy rainforest, hiking South America is unlike anything you have done before. If you are going to South America, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.
- Backpacker's Delight - Oregon
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If every there was a beautiful state, it is Oregon. Hitting the trails in Oregon is a great way to get out and experience the beauty of this green, rainy state.
- Backpackers and the Cohutta Wilderness
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Checking out the Blue Ridge Mountains simply should be a must for any backpacker. When it comes to these mountains, the Cohutta wilderness is one of the best areas.
- Backpackers and Indiana
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Trekking is a great outdoor activity because it is cheap and you can do it practically anywhere. Indiana is such an example and there is more than enough to wet the taste of any backpacker.
- Backpackers and the Trinity Alps
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Finding unique hiking spots is the goal of many a backpacker. Heading off to the Trinity Alps provides you with one such opportunity to explore the beauty of nature.
- Figuring Out Your W-4 Withholdings
[Finance:Taxes] If you are employed by a business, you have the ability to play with the withholding on your paycheck. Fortunately, there is an easy way to do this online these days.
- Proper Use of Payment Plans with the IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Everyone runs into financial problems from time to time. If this translates into tax problems, you need to know the how to best use installment plans.
- IRS Makes Life Easier For People That Can't Pay Their Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Most people go into panic mode when they realize they don’t have enough money to pay the taxes they owe. The IRS offers fairly painless solutions and is making them easier to access.
- If You Filed an Extension for Your Taxes – Time's Almost Up
[Finance:Taxes] During a beautiful summer day, it is easy to forget some of the things you have to take care of. If you filed an extension on your taxes earlier this year, the deadline is approaching.
- Campgrounds in Nebraska
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Mention Nebraska and the first thing that comes to mind is college football. Well, the season only runs part of the year, which gives you plenty of time to experience the campgrounds in Nebraska.
- Adirondack Campgrounds
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] The Adirondacks are legendary amongst outdoor enthusiasts in the northeast. One of the best ways to experience them is through the plentiful campground facilities.
- Campgrounds in New Hampshire
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Located in the Northeastern United States, New Hampshire offers many attractions, Campgrounds in New Hampshire encompasses diverse activities such as fishing, biking and hiking.
- Campgrounds in North Carolina
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Given the tradition of college basketball in North Carolina, it is often difficult to keep in mind the season ends in March. When it is over, you should spend some time in the beauty of the state by visiting the various campgrounds in North Carolina.
- Campgrounds in Maryland
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Maryland is known for its coast and some delicious food. Less known is the fact camp grounds in Maryland are plentiful and a good place to spend a weekend.
- Campgrounds in Michigan
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] While winters can be cold, Michigan has a great outdoors tradition in spring, summer and fall. A great way to experience this tradition is to try out the campgrounds in Michigan.
- Campgrounds in British Columbia
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Vancouver, British Columbia is a beautiful city. That being said, you are really missing out if you do not leave the city and go stay at the wide variety of campgrounds in the area.
- Parabolic Solar Oven
[Reference-and-Education] Mention solar power to someone and they immediately think of solar panels. A parabolic solar oven, however, has a much more practical use when it comes to feeding ourselves.
- Bio Pyramid
[Reference-and-Education:Science] In the ongoing energy debate, biomass energy is getting a lot of play among politicians. To understand the concept, it first helps to understand the bio pyramid.
- Wind Farm Efficiency
[Reference-and-Education] Wind power is an incredibly clean renewable power source. To capture the energy in wind, wind farms are used. So, how about wind farm efficiency?
- Uses for Solar In Every Day Life
[Home-Improvement] Many a person, myself included, has gone on and on about the benefits of solar energy. While theoretical arguments are always interesting, what about daily applications?
- Converting to Solar Lighting For Your Pool
[Home-Improvement:Lighting] There is much debate about the application of solar energy as a global energy platform. There is no debate, however, on smaller applications such as pool lighting.
- Overview of Solar As An Energy Platform
[News-and-Society:Energy] With renewable energy all the rage these days and fossil fuel costs soaring, solar energy is in the news. Here are some thoughts about solar as a viable energy platform.
- Employer Cash Incentives To Employees For Hybrids
[Finance:Taxes] Many companies offer their employees cash incentives to undertake certain actions such as buying a hybrid car. It is important to remember that such situations have tax consequences
- Basic Russian Terms for Your Trip To Russia
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you are planning a trip to Russia, you need to make an effort to prepare yourself. Practicing drinking vodka is a good start, but you will need to know some basic Russian terms.
- Saving Money When Traveling
[Travel-and-Leisure] Traveling, particularly overseas, can be a great experience. For many people, it can also be an expensive one, which means you need to know how to save on expenses.
- Understanding Fly Fishing Targets On Flowing Water
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] When it comes to fly fishing, the jargon can get a bit overwhelming if you let it. Here’s the plain English scoop on some common terms used.
- The Mean and Nasty Northern Pike
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fly fishing on rivers and lakes is often portrayed as a communal zen moment in nature. Seek out the Northern Pike, however, and you are in for anything but a peaceful time.
- A Rare Bird Indeed For Bird Watchers – The Atlantic Puffin
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] For most bird watching enthusiast, keeping an eye out for a rare sighting is of great importance. Sighting an Atlantic Puffin is just such rare sighting
- A Suet Way To Attract Birds To Your Yard
[Home-and-Family:Gardening] No, I didn’t misspell the word sweet. Suet is a particular food that birds just can’t resist, to wit, a great way to attract them to your bird house.
- Best Times for Bird Watching
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] One you have the birding bug, you will want to maximize your experience when it comes to sightings. Put another way, you will need to know the best times for bird watching.
- Trinidad Bird Watching
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Part of the Trinidad and Tobago Island grouping, Trinidad offers excelling birding opportunities. In fact, there are more than a few excellent guided options available.
- Bird Watching in Tobago
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Once you catch birding fever, it will overtake your entire life. In fact, you will start planning trips around it as can occur with bird watching in Tobago.
- Why Changing Out Your Light Bulbs Is A Smart Move
[Home-Improvement:Lighting] Whether you are motivated by money or concern about global warming, changing out your light bulbs and fixtures can make a huge difference on both fronts.
- The World Turns To Renewable Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] The issues associated with the continued of fossil fuels are complex. What is undisputed, however, is the world is turning to meet the challenge through renewable energy.
- Chocolate – The Answer To Hydrogen Fuel Supplies?
[Reference-and-Education:Future-Concepts] Many people look to hydrogen fuel cells as the answer to our energy issues. The only problem, of course, is creating usable hydrogen. Chocolate production may be the answer.
- The Solar Heating Aspect You Have Never Heard of Before
[Home-Improvement:Heating-and-Air-Conditioning] If you have looked into solar energy as a method for heating your home, panels are usually the first things that come up. There are, however, other unique methods.
- Environmentalists and the Wind Power Debate in Maine
[News-and-Society:Environmental] For the first time since the oil shortages in the 1970s, efforts to convert to renewable energy have accelerated. In the case of wind power in Maine, this has caused an odd conflict.
- Improve Your Home With A Residential Wind Turbine
[Home-Improvement] What if I said you could cut your electric bill by 50 to 90 percent? Well, you can by installing a small, residential wind turbine on your property.
- Overview of the Almighty Tax Deduction for Small Businesses
[Finance:Taxes] Taxes are the great bane of most businesses. Alas, tax deductions act as a salve to cool the burning and itching of your bank account.
- Tax Credits for Toyota Hybrids To Be Cut In Half
[Finance:Taxes] If you purchase a new hybrid car after January 1, 2006, you can get a major tax credit for doing so. Alas, the tax credits applicable for Toyota hybrids are about to be cut in half.
- Latest Email Scam Using IRS Name
[Finance:Taxes] If you have an email account, and who doesn’t, you are use to receiving scam emails. Well, here is one using the IRS name to watch out for over the next few months.
- Honda Natural Gas Cars Issued Massive Tax Credits By IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Between global warming and massive increases in fuel prices, many people are reconsidering their transportation. Honda has two natural gas cars the IRS absolutely loves.
- IRS Issues Tax Credit Amounts For GM Trucks
[Finance:Taxes] As 2006 rolls along, the IRS is in the process of issuing tax credit amounts to particular hybrid vehicles. The agency has just issued the amounts for a number of GM vehicles.
- Passive Solar Problems – Too Much Heat
[Home-Improvement:Heating-and-Air-Conditioning] Solar energy presents one of the cleanest renewable energy platforms we have available to us. Sometimes, however, it works to well and can turn your house into a scorcher.
- Save Money By Improving Hot Water Usage
[Home-Improvement] Nobody likes cold showers, particularly early in the morning. Take the following steps, however, and you can save serious cash on your water heating costs.
- The Surprising Home Improvement That Will Save You A Bundle
[Home-Improvement] If you are considering making home improvements to address your energy use and utility bill, you may be in for a surprise. The biggest energy change is not what most people think.
- Reasons Wind Power Is A Viable Energy Solution
[News-and-Society:Energy] Fuel costs and global warming are becoming a bigger concern for people in their daily lives. If you are considering going green, wind is an energy platform with a lot of positives.
- Future Energy Concepts – The Fuel Cell
[News-and-Society:Energy] With global warming, general pollution and rising fuel prices, our future energy needs are a hot topic. Fuel cells may represent a solution, one coming sooner than later.
- Tip On Upgrading To First Class On Charter Flights
[Travel-and-Leisure:Aviation-Airplanes] You are ready to do some traveling, but the old bank account is a bit of a problem. Welcome to charter flights, one of the cheaper ways to see the world.
- Do Not Use 800 Numbers When Booking Trips
[Travel-and-Leisure] The theme of modern society seems to be give me convenience or give me death. In the case of booking trips, this convenience will really cost you.
- Wind Farms in the United Kingdom
[Reference-and-Education] The wind farm is an alternative energy platform that has existed for years, but most people don't realize it. It is particularly prevalent in the United Kingdom.
- Using Biomass Power for Our Electric Needs
[Reference-and-Education] Electricity is a fundamental pillar to any modern society. Unfortunately, we need fuel to create electricity. This brings us to the subject of biomass as a new source of power.
- An Overview of Biomass Energy
[News-and-Society:Energy] As fuel prices skyrocket, personal financial situations and entire economies are threatened. Biomass energy has been offered up as a possible solution.
- Producing Energy From Geothermal Resources
[News-and-Society:Energy] Geothermal energy is a platform tapping the inherent energy found within the Earth. Her is an overview of how the process works from a practical perspective.
- Looking To The Past Of Geothermal Energy
[Reference-and-Education] Geothermal energy is often viewed as a relatively new form of alternative energy. In truth, the use of geothermal energy stretches far back into the past.
- Motion Lighting Using Solar Power
[Home-Improvement:Lighting] Motion lighting is very convenient security platform for homes. Solar motion lamps take the benefits to the next level with more efficiency and reduced utility bills.
- Wall Mounted Solar Lighting
[Home-Improvement:Lighting] Solar lighting has joined heating and electrical production as popular solar platforms. Wall mounted solar lighting is a particular niche product that people are turning to in droves.
- IRS Approves Saturn Vue Green Line for Tax Credit
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS is working its way through various automobiles that qualify their owners for tax credits. The Saturn model of cars has just been reviewed with one particular model being approved.
- The IRS vs Mother Nature
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS recently met its match in the form of Mother Nature. Yes, the massive flooding in Washington, D.C., took out the IRS headquarters.
- New Procedure for Settling Tax Debts with the IRS
[Finance:Taxes] The Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 has ushered in new rules for settling tax debts with the IRS. Here is the scoop on the compromise procedures.
- Major Changes to IRS Tax Settlement Rules
[Finance:Taxes] In recent years, the IRS has made a concerted effort to get people back into good status by reaching deals on overdue taxes. The rules affecting this program have just changed dramatically.
- Favorite Hikes in Upper California
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Beaches, Hollywood, sun and fun, this is the image most people have of California. The far north of California, however, offers hikes that rival anything else the state has to offer.
- Hiking To and Fro in New Hampshire
[Recreation-and-Sports] New Hampshire is a state of inherent beauty, particularly during the fall when the leaves turn. Getting out and hoofing around gives you an opportunity to experience the pure bliss.
- Colorado Hiking Areas
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] From the Front Range to the beauty of its parks, Colorado is an undeniable top destination for hiking. Colorado hiking areas are plentiful and present a wide array of challenges and scenery.
- Bird Watching in the Adirondacks
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Upstate New York is known for the fun and beauty that can be found in the Adirondacks. Bird watching in the Adirondacks is excellent and a combination of all the things that make the Adirondacks great.
- Bird Watching Prospects in the Amazon Rainforest
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Once you catch bird watching fever, the completion of your life list will become a dream. In that dream, there is little doubt that you will see the famous Amazon Rainforest.
- IRS Helps Employers By Reducing Filings Required For Employees
[Finance:Taxes] If you own a business and have employees, you have an inherent feel for the joy of filing employee related tax documents. Alas, the IRS is cutting back on the burden.
- IRS Warning Taxpayers About New Email Scams
[Finance:Taxes] If you have an email account, you know about all the scam emails you get. Scammers are getting braver and using the IRS name in their new tactics.
- Breaking In Your Hiking Boots In San Diego
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Having grown up in San Diego, I am amazed at how packed and hectic it has become. Hiking for few hours gives you a chance to enjoy the area without the rat race element.
- Go For A Hike – It Is Good For You!
[Health-and-Fitness:Exercise] Hiking is a popular, inexpensive way to get out and take a break from daily life. The really good news is it is excellent for both your body and brain.
- Hiking Down South In California
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] California has a lot to offer in the way of beaches, entertainment and such. Many people fail to realize there are tremendous hiking opportunities, particularly in the south.
- Advice For Backpackers Going To Europe
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Backpack in hand, you are ready to head to Europe for some fun and sun. Here is some advice for backpackers from someone who has done it multiple times and made the mistakes.
- Solar Lights For Your Garden
[Home-and-Family:Gardening] We all care how our homes appear to others and lighting is a big part of that. Solar lights are a popular and cost effective option for adding a little zing to your landscaping efforts.
- Overview of Geothermal Energy
[Reference-and-Education] As we look to alternative energy sources for our power hungry world, geothermal energy is getting attention. Here is a brief overview of geothermal energy.
- Using The Sun To Run Dock Lights
[Travel-and-Leisure:Cruising] As alternative energy sources gain more popularity, companies expand their applications. Self contained solar panels lights are now being used on docks.
- Solar Power for Post Lighting
[Home-Improvement:Lighting] Solar energy is all around us, but most people don’t notice it. For instance, the power source for many emergency phones on freeways is powered by it. This brings us the subject of solar post lights.
- Solar Energy Systems for Pools
[News-and-Society:Energy] If you have a pool, you know how much heating it can crank up your utility bill. Solar energy systems for pools offer an alternative method that will not devastate your bank account.
- Refurbished Solar Panels For Your Home
[Home-Improvement] For many people, buying something new makes little sense if they can get something refurbished for far cheaper. Refurbished solar panels tend to work the same way, but they can cost you in the end unless you understand the situation.
- British Petroleum – Solar Products Manufacture
[Home-Improvement] British Petroleum was once known for their petroleum products. How times have changed. BP is now one of the biggest producers of solar products.
- Sharp Solar – Solar Energy Manufacturer
[News-and-Society:Energy] As the world looks to alternative fuel sources to save the environment and money, solar energy has come to the forefront. Sharp solar is known as one of the leading manufacturers.
- San Diego Beaches
[Travel-and-Leisure] San Diego is offered up as a great destination for people looking to take a vacation on the beach. Here are some recommendations on San Diego beaches from a local.
- Some Practical Tips on Packing For Your Trip
[Travel-and-Leisure] Every year, millions of people take a break from the rat race by taking a trip. Unfortunately, most people pack much of the rat race and take it along with them!
- Visiting Alaska – The Domain of Mother Nature
[Travel-and-Leisure] These days, it seems like humans are everywhere. Finding an adventure is outright impossible. A visit to Alaska, however, will convince you there is still open space in the world.
- Per Diem Rates and Business Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] The tax code for the United States is over 50,000 pages. Buried in this code is the subject of per diem rates, a topic that can save businesses money on their taxes.
- Battling the IRS
[Finance:Taxes] There was once a song about battling the law and losing. Fortunately, battling the IRS is possible and sometimes inevitable.
- IRS Announces Tax Credits For Toyota Prius
[Automotive] The Toyota Prius is the vehicle that started the entire hybrid vehicle craze. It continues to dominate the market and the IRS has announced the tax credits for this year.
- How Solar Thermal Works In Your Home
[Home-Improvement] Given energy concerns these days, most homes are now designed to take advantage of passive solar heating concepts. Solar thermal is a big part of this process.
- Hydropower As A Major Player In The Energy Game
[News-and-Society:Economics] Hydropower has been a slumbering giant in the energy game. Since the 1960s, its use has actually gone down compared to other energy sources. This is beginning to change.
- Homeowners In Hawaii Get Windfall With Solar Power
[Home-Improvement] While the federal government has created incentives for going solar, they are but a drip in the bucket compared to incentives being offered in Hawaii.
- Home Appreciation and Capital Gains
[Real-Estate] The last seven years has seen tremendous appreciation in home prices. This brings up the issue of home capital gains tax issues for people when they sell.
- Moving To A New Location – Tax Information
[Finance:Taxes] In modern America, it is rare to find a person or family living in the same place for thirty years. Most of us move five or ten times, which means taxes become an issue.
- IRS Crushes Credit Counseling Groups Claiming Non-Profit Status
[Finance:Taxes] Many credit counseling groups claim they are in it just to help you and not make a profit as indicated by their charitable organization status. The IRS is not happy.
- The IRS Owes You Money If You Have Paid Long Distance Phone Taxes
[Communications:Mobile-Cell-Phone] The IRS has decided to give up the fight on an ongoing legal issue regarding taxes it has collected on long distance telephone services. Here is the scoop.
- IRS Simplifies Reporting Requirements for Corps and Shareholders
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS is heavily promoting electronic filing options. This promotion has run into problems with corporations because of complex regulations. The IRS is now moving to correct this problem.
- Home Improvements – Get Your Envelope In Order
[Home-Improvement] Whether you need heat in winter or air conditioning in summer, you run the risk of throwing away money on utilities. You need not do this by making painless home improvements.
- Power Cells As Alternative To Oil
[Reference-and-Education:Future-Concepts] As oil and gasoline prices rise, much hay is being made regarding the possibilities of power cells as a solution to our oil addictions. Here’s a basic primer on power cells.
- Sprucing Up Your Garden With Solar
[Home-and-Family:Gardening] Fountains are a popular addition to most landscaped yards. Solar fountains give you the benefit of traditional fountains without running up your electrical bill every month.
- Going Down Under With Your House
[Home-Improvement] One of the biggest home expenses over time is the cost of energy. Going down under is one way to combat this cost. No, I am not talking about Australia!
- Got Wealth?
[Finance:Wealth-Building] The last ten years has seen massive wealth growth in the United States. This brings up the issue of wealth planning, particularly from a tax perspective.
- The Evolving Role of Accountants
[Finance:Taxes] With products like Turbo Tax improving, many wonder where this leaves accountants. Ironically, the evolving role of accountants is helping people save on their taxes.
- An Overview of Reverse Mortgages
[Real-Estate:Mortgage-Refinance] If you own a home, you know mortgage products have moved beyond the basic 30 year fixed option. Reverse mortgages are one such product and here is an overview.
- The Purpose of Your Accountant
[Finance:Taxes] Many people are confused about the purpose of accountants given tax software and so on. To get the biggest benefit for the fees you pay, you need to understand what your accountant can do.
- Make Your Accountant Your Best Friend
[Finance:Taxes] Many people just assume their accountant will cut their taxes as much as possible. To get the biggest benefit from them, you need to be a bit more proactive.
- Saving Money on Gas – The Scoop on Products and Services
[News-and-Society:Economics] As gas prices skyrocket and are forecasted to continue doing so, saving money on your fuels costs is becoming very important. Here is what you really need to save a few bucks.
- Animals and The Melting Arctic Ice Cap
[Reference-and-Education] The arguments for global warming can sound a bit vacuous when discussing temperature changes of only one degree. The impact of the melting Arctic ice cap on animals is much more tangible.
- Should You Get Help With Your Home Heating Plans?
[Home-Improvement:Heating-and-Air-Conditioning] Developing an energy efficient, yet ample, heating system for your property can be complex. Retaining a professional is a smart way to make sure you get it right.
- Wind Farms – Limitations as Energy Platforms
[Reference-and-Education:Future-Concepts] As modern society searches around for alternative energy sources, wind farms are getting mention. There are, however, limitations regarding wind farms as major energy alternatives.
- Designing Your New Kitchen On The Computer
[Home-Improvement] You hear it over and over, the best way to improve the value of a home is to spruce up the kitchen. Fortunately, there are a lot of computer programs that let you do this in spades.
- Handling Your Own Shower Drain Installation Project
[Home-Improvement:Bath-and-Shower] Upgrading a bathroom is one of the more popular home improvement projects. Handling the plumbing for draining your shower can be exceedingly simple unless you go overboard.
- Ordering Parts For Your Plumbing Through The Mail
[Home-Improvement:Plumbing] If you own a home, do it yourself projects undoubtedly occupy many of your weekends. Mail order plumbing makes plumbing upgrades cheaper, particularly if you plan ahead.
- Is Passive Solar A Viable Home Heating Option In Cold Areas?
[Home-Improvement:Heating-and-Air-Conditioning] Passive solar is a method of using the energy from the sun to heat a home. It is extremely popular because the process is free once a passive solar home is created.
- An Overview of Nuclear Energy
[News-and-Society:Economics] In the effort to get away from our oil and coal dependency, nuclear energy is getting attention again. Here is an overview of nuclear energy.
- An Overview of Wind Farms
[News-and-Society:Economics] With energy issues becoming a daily subject in the news, wind energy is gaining notoriety. Here is an overview of wind farms and their potential.
- Tips for Saving Money At The Pump
[Finance:Personal-Finance] The cost of gas in the United States is increasing dramatically. The following tips can help you limit the impact on your bank account when you are sitting at the pump.
- Solar vs. Oil
[News-and-Society] Solar power has long been a minor power source compared to mighty oil. As oil prices rise and conflicts occur in oil countries, perhaps the issue needs to be revisited.
- An Overview of Solar Cells Through The Years
[Home-Improvement] When solar cells first came on the scene in the 1950s, they were simple. Now, there are a wide variety of cells and more are coming as technology improves.
- Cooking With The Power of the Sun
[Food-and-Drink:Cooking-Tips] Many people understand the concept of passive solar for heating a home. Fewer realize it can be used in to cook food and sterilize water.
- Solar For Your House: Learn The Lizard Lesson
[Home-Improvement] Using the power of the sun to provide heat or light in your home can be done a couple of ways. In this article, we look to lizards for a basic solar lesson.
- Solar: Will It Ever Power Our Vehicles
[Automotive] As solar power has matured as a technology, companies have started applying it to more than just houses. Acting as an energy platform for our transport was an obvious application.
- Packing Your Backpack for Europe
[Travel-and-Leisure] Nothing beats backpacking in Europe if you get the opportunity. So, you probably want to know what to pack for Europe.
- A Basic Overview of Kayaks and Kayaking
[Recreation-and-Sports] Kayaking is growing in popularity. It is a sport with a lot of variations, which are covered below in this article.
- The Basics of Rafting The River Rapids
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Rafting the river rapids is a major adrenaline rush. If you are going to hit the rapids, you need to know some of the basic language thrown around in the sport.
- Dealing With Taxes If You Live and Work Outside The United States
[Finance:Taxes] If you live and work outside of the United States, I may have some very good news for you. Although Americans are taxes on their worldwide income, you may be able to claim a huge deduction.
- Tax Credit Amount for Lexus GS 450 Hybrid Issued By IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Prior to January 1, 2006, you were restricted to claiming a $2,000 tax deduction if you purchased a hybrid car. Now you can claim a tax credit, which is much more valuable.
- IRS Issues Tax Credit Amount For Toyota Camry Hybrid
[Automotive] Prior to January 1, 2006, people purchasing hybrid vehicles were eligible to claim a significant tax deduction. Now they can claim a monstrously large tax credit.
- The IRS Solution If You Cannot Pay Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] The Internal Revenue Service wants you to pay taxes on time. That being said, it understands this is not always possible and has created a program for such situations.
- Didn't File Anything With the IRS on April 15th?
[Finance:Taxes] The magic tax date of April 15th has passed. If you did not file a tax return or extension request, you need to consider the following.
- Rafting The River of No Return
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Whitewater rafting is simply a blast, pun intended. This brings us to the river of no return, an excellent challenge in Idaho.
- Adrenaline Rafting Basics
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Rafting down rapids is a good way to get the old ticker clicking over at a high rate. Here is an overview of the basics of rafting down the rapids.
- Dear John Letters From The IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Undoubtedly, you are aware of Dear John letters. Often a young lady sent them to men in the military, often containing bad news. Well, the IRS sends them to taxpayers as well.
- Using This Years Taxes to Save On Next Years Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] You just got done paying taxes or filing an extension and are grumpy. If you are smart, you will use this miserable event to save some cash for next year.
- Various Toyota Hybrids Get Tax Credit Certification From IRS
[Automotive] Starting in 2006, individuals buying hybrid cars will get a tax credit instead of a tax deduction. The IRS has just started to kick out the exact amounts you can claim for your new hybrid.
- A Key Element In Solar Panels - Efficiency
[Home-Improvement] While solar energy is most often associated with the production of electricity, heating is also a major platform. While heating isn’t particularly difficult, efficiency in doing so is the key to saving wear and tear on your system.
- Taking Solar Into Account When Designing Your Home Improvements
[Home-Improvement] Using the sun to heat up a home is growing by leaps and bounds in popularity these days. To really save money with solar, the best way is to design your home or improvements with solar in mind.
- Heating Your Home With Solar, But Without Panels
[Home-Improvement] With rising energy costs and massive stress on our electrical grids, solar is gaining in popularity. Not everyone realizes you can heat your home without buying big panel systems.
- Getting To and Around Eastern Europe
[Travel-and-Leisure] Visiting Eastern Europe is an enjoyable step back in time and a top travel destination. Here’s the scoop on what you need to consider when trying to get there.
- Flying to Another Country on the Cheap
[Travel-and-Leisure:Aviation-Airplanes] The Internet provides us the ability to see exotic locations and plan trips to them. If you are planning such a trip, here are some ways to fly to countries on the cheap.
- Finding Places to Stay When Visiting Hong Kong
[Travel-and-Leisure] Hong Kong is an eclectic mix of Chinese and British influences mixed with a massive amount of adrenaline. Fortunately, you can find places to stay when visiting Hong Kong without much problem.
- Fly Fishing Accessories – Hanging Stuff Around Your Chest
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] If you are going fly fishing, you need to have your critical gear with you while wading and casting. One of the critical pieces of equipment is your vest.
- Fly Fishing Heaven In Montana
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] You can find good spots for fly fishing in most states, but some are more epic than others. Allow me to introduce you to heaven on earth for anglers.
- Solar Projects – Should You Do Them Yourself?
[Home-Improvement] With increasing fossil fuel prices, solar is becoming a popular option. If you have a solar project in mind, the first thing you have to determine is whether you should build it yourself.
- Historical Advances in Producing Electricity From the Sun
[Reference-and-Education] When politicians start talking about renewable energy, you know we have problems. Solar energy is a significant renewable energy and here is an overview of how the technology has developed.
- Alternatives to Fiberglass Insulation
[Home-Improvement] When building a home, insulation is one of the major aspects that can cut future heating and cooling costs. Fiberglass insulation has been the primary choice, but not anymore.
- Avila, Spain
[Travel-and-Leisure] Madrid is a city almost without equal in Europe. If you need a break from it, you can take a day trip to Avila to catch a bit of fresh air and see some amazing sites.
- Staying in Barcelona for Extended Periods
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you have every visited Barcelona, you know it is a place best experienced over a few months instead of a few days. Fortunately, the people of Barcelona know it as well.
- Eclectic Barcelona – What a Blast
[Travel-and-Leisure] Barcelona is one of my favorite cities in Europe. From a general liveliness to museums to attractions, Barcelona has it all and definite eclectic flare.
- Ways to Prevent Climate Modification
[Reference-and-Education] Climate modification is essentially the excessive heating of the planet, which results in dramatic climatic changes. So, are there ways to prevent climate modification?
- Climate Modification and Volcanoes
[Reference-and-Education] Climate modification is a multi-faceted and complex subject. In this article, we take a look at the relationship between climate modification and volcanoes.
- Asia, Africa and Climate Modification
[Reference-and-Education] As often seems the case, less developed countries seem to receive the bulk of the impact when it comes to negative world developments. The third world and climate modification is no different.
- Climate Change - What is it?
[Reference-and-Education] Climate change is an amazingly simple phrase for such a complex subject. Following, we have a go at defining climate change in today’s terms.
- Does Global Warming Occur Without Man?
[Reference-and-Education] Global warming is perpetually in the news these days. While everyone is aware of pollution problems, did you know a certain amount of global warming occurs as part of the biomass?
- Temperature Control with Solar Panels
[Home-Improvement] While solar energy is most often associated with the production of electricity, heating is also a major platform. Temperature control is the key to an efficient system.
- Overview of Tidal Energy
[Reference-and-Education:Science] As the world looks for alternative fuel sources, tidal energy is starting to attract attention again. Following is an overview of tidal energy.
- Renewable Energy Overview
[Reference-and-Education:Science] As political and economic aspects of fossil fuels grow more harrowing, renewable energy is gaining popularity. Here’s an overview of renewable energy.
- Solar Energy Overview
[News-and-Society:Energy] Solar energy is a renewable, clean energy that has been around for thousands of years in one form or another. Following is an overview of solar energy.
- Checking The Status of Your Tax Refund Online
[Finance:Taxes] More than a few people are happy to learn they are due a tax refund after filling out their tax returns. If you are one of these people, here is how to check the status of your refund online.
- Not To Late To Make 2005 IRA Contribution
[Investing:IRA-401k] Many Americans make annual contributions to individual retirement accounts. If you haven’t done so for the 2005 tax year, you still can.
- IRS Wants to Know About Fake Emails Using IRS Name
[Finance:Taxes] Obviously, you use the Internet or you wouldn’t be reading this article. Since you use the web, you know about phishing scams or should. Some scams are now using fake IRS identification.
- I Want Hot Water and I Want It Now!
[Home-Improvement] Give me convenience or give me death. When this cliche is applied to water in a home, we are talking about water heaters that produce hot water immediately.
- Swamp Coolers – A Different Way to Cool Your Home
[Home-Improvement] Known by the humorous name of "Swamp Coolers," cooling systems based on evaporation have been around forever. Here's a primer on evaporative cooling. No swamp is needed.
- DIY Methods to Save on Utilities
[Home-Improvement:DIY] If your utility bill is out of control, you need to consider ways to tame the beast. There are plenty of do it yourself (DIY) ways to save on utilities.
- Methane and Potential Impacts on Global Warming
[Reference-and-Education:Science] Methane is a gas found on most planets with atmospheres. In limited amounts, it isn't a particularly problematic gas. In larger amounts, however, it can become a regulator of atmosphere temperatures.
- Tax Incentives for Saving for Education
[Finance:Taxes] Recent statistics show Americans are simply not saving money for the future. To encourage savings, the government has come up with tax incentives.
- Solar Gadgets – Gotta Love Them
[Communications:Mobile-Cell-Phone] It has been claimed that our nation is infatuated with a variety of things from civil rights to freedom. Bah! If we are honest, we will admit we are infatuated with gadgets.
- Time to Heat the Pool Again - Cheaply
[Home-and-Family] As we slowly leave winter behind, it is time to start heating the pool up again. Here are some tips on how to do it without heating up your utility bill.
- Refinanced Your Home - Claim a Tax Deduction For Points
[Real-Estate:Mortgage-Refinance] The mortgage refinance market has cooled off dramatically with recent rate increases. Many people, however, refinanced during 2005 and can claim tax deductions.
- Tax Deductions for Your 2005 Hybrid Automobile
[Finance:Taxes] With the recent push by President Bush for alternative fuel strategies, much confusion has arisen regarding tax incentives for hybrid vehicles. This article clarifies the issue for you.
- Giving Your Car to Charity - The New Tax Rules
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS has changed the regulations on donating vehicles to charities. If you donated a car last year, you need to read the following to understand the new rules.
- Giving To Charities - Tax Deductions and Such
[Finance:Taxes] The tax code in the United States contains many provisions to promote certain behavior. One area of behavior is the promotion of giving to qualified charities.
- Windows and Killer Utility Bills
[Home-Improvement:Windows] Does your utility bill leave you in tears? Does your family walk around wearing all their clothes so you can avoid cranking up the heater and wiping out your bank account? Those beautiful windows are killing you.
- Using Incense to Save on Your Utilities
[Home-Improvement] If your utility bill is out of control, you need to take dramatic steps. Yes, it is time to use the inherent power of incense. Stick with me on this one.
- Alternative Home Designs - Atriums
[Real-Estate] Building a home for yourself is the American Dream. For some people, it is important to build something unique.
- Why Use Biomass for Our Energy Needs
[Reference-and-Education:Future-Concepts] The last five years has seen a revolution in how governments, people and industry view energy. The positive aspects of biomass energy have come to the forefront in this discussion.
- Do You Realize You Already Use Biomass Fuel in Your Vehicle
[Automotive] The call has gone out from President Bush to kick our oil habit. For many people, the mention of biomass as a fuel source was a new concept. Little did they realize they have already been putting it into their cars. Nope, that isn’t your dad’s gas anymore.
- Biomass: Heating Your Home With Corn
[Home-Improvement:Heating-and-Air-Conditioning] With fossil fuel prices expected to continue increasing, many people are nervous about future heating bills. Using biomass as an alternative is becoming particularly popular. As strange as it may sound, corn is a popular fuel.
- Oscars and Taxes
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Movies-TV] Ratings for the Oscars were down a whopping 10 percent compared to 2005. Well, at least the Internal Revenue Service was watching.
- Tax Season – Time for Scams
[Finance:Taxes] As tax season draws irresistibly closer, the scam artists are polishing their latest techniques. This article should help you keep an eye out for these nasty individuals.
- Tax Credits for Retirement Savings
[Home-and-Family:Retirement] It is a well-known fact that Americans are miserable failures when it comes to saving for retirement. Well, the government is offering tax credits to change this for some of us.
- Get a Tax Credit for Using Renewable Energy in Oregon
[Home-Improvement] Oregon has always been known as an environmentally conscious state. To this end, you can even get a tax credit for using renewable energy.
- How To Get A Rebate for Using Alternative Energy in Illinois
[Home-Improvement] Alternative Energy is all the rage after the State of the Union speech given by President Bush. If you live in Illinois, you should know there are already rebate programs available.
- How To Get A Rebate for Going Solar In California
[Home-Improvement] California is the leading produce of solar electricity in the United States. One of the reasons for this is a rebate program second to none.
- How To Get A Rebate for Going Solar In Tucson, Arizona
[Home-Improvement] With all of its sunny days, going solar makes sense if you live in Arizona. Even better, one utility company will give you rebates for installing solar panels on your home.
- Australia Considers Putting All Schools on Solar Power
[News-and-Society:Politics] You have to love politicians. Jumping on the renewable energy bandwagon, they are suddenly coming up with all kinds of programs to solve energy problems.
- The One That Got Away on the Green River
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fly fishing can be a surreal experience mending the soul of any person. That is, until you have to deal with the one that got away!
- Getting a Tax Credit for Your Kids
[Finance:Taxes] As you know, raising a family is a full time job and can put stress on your finances. Fortunately, you can claim a tax credit to help cut your IRS bill if you have kids.
- Using the Sun to Power Your RV
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Jumping in your RV and leaving the rat race for the weekend is an American tradition. Did you know you can provide power to your RV with the sun while getting away from it all?
- Huff and Puff - Power Your Home with the Wind
[Home-Improvement] The fastest growing alternative energy platform in the United States is the wind. No, I’m not blowing hot air.
- Home Improving with Solar - The Important Concept of Gain
[Home-Improvement] You’ve decided to pursue a solar home improvement, but aren’t so keen on the idea of putting panels on your roof. No worries, you just need to understand the concept of gain.
- Financing Residential Solar Power
[Home-Improvement] Although competition is driving prices down, solar panel systems can require you departing with a chunk of change. Fortunately, the mortgage industry wants to talk to you.
- Solar Home Improvements and Tax Deductions
[Home-Improvement] Going solar is all the rage these days with massive financial incentives fueling the fire. Here’s a little trick to write off an additional part of your solar system purchase.
- Get a Jump Start on Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Preparing and filing your taxes is a less than exciting task. Much like visiting the dentist it something that must simply be done. There are ways to make it a little less painful.
- What To Do If You Didn't Get a Form 1099
[Finance:Taxes] If you earned revenues as an independent contractor in 2005, you should have received a 1099 Form for the work. So, what if you haven’t received one?
- What To Do If You Didn't Get a W-2
[Finance:Taxes] If you worked in a salaried position during 2005, your employer should issue you a W-2 form for your tax reporting. So, what if you haven’t received one?
- Earnings From Abroad and Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] With the every expanding global economy, many people receive earnings from foreign entities. Unfortunately, the federal government wants you to pay taxes on it.
- Window Manufacturers Qualifying For Energy Star Ratings
[Home-Improvement:Windows] Energy Star is part of a government-backed program promoting energy efficiency. Windows are one area where the program works.
- New Solar Technology - Holographic Tuning
[Reference-and-Education:Science] With the renewed emphasis on renewable energy, new technologies are emerging. Holographic tuning is one such technology and could revolutionize solar cells.
- Solar Home Improvements Without Panels
[Home-Improvement] You’ve grown tired of paying monstrous electric bills and have decided to go solar. Solar panels, however, aren’t exactly your taste. Don’t worry, you can go solar without them.
- Concentrating Sunlight for Energy
[Reference-and-Education:Science] One of the consistent problems with solar platforms has been the inefficient conversion of sunlight to electricity. New technology and strategies are dealing with this issue.
- Is Biomass Really a Clean Energy Resource?
[Reference-and-Education:Science] As we strive to find alternative energy resources, many potential solutions are on the table. Biomass energy is one such solution or is it?
- An Overview of Wind as an Energy Source
[Reference-and-Education:Science] Wind is one of the cleanest, if not cleanest, renewable energy sources available to us. What most people don’t know is it is also the fastest growing energy sector.
- New York Green Building Initiative
[News-and-Society:Economics] As is occurring in many states, New York is trying to promote Green Building practices. The state is doing it by offering tax credits as financial incentives.
- Solar Rebates
[Home-Improvement] American’s love rebates. Whether rebates are offered on computers, software, cars or whatever, we snatch them up. If your considering going solar, you’ll be happy to hear rebates are available.
- Department of Energy Kicks in $119 Million for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Research
[News-and-Society:Politics] President Bush has indicated it is imperative to kick America’s oil habit. In conjunction with this goal, the Department of Energy has just announced a $119 million dollar research initiative.
- President Bush Goes Solar
[News-and-Society:Economics] Environmentalists throughout the world are still in shock. Who would’ve every thought President Bush would push solar energy?
- The Solar Decathlon
[Reference-and-Education:Science] Every other year, the U.S. Energy Department holds a solar decathlon for teams from various universities around the world. The winning team receives a $100,000 grant over two years.
- Travel to Romantic Asian Locations
[Travel-and-Leisure] Asia is one the more visually stunning areas in the world. If you are looking for romance, here are some top-notch destinations.
- IRS Holding $2 Billion In Unclaimed Tax Refunds
[Finance:Taxes] Every year, the IRS announces that it is holding unclaimed tax refunds. Taxpayers have a limited time to claim the $2 billion dollars the IRS is currently holding.
- Tax Changes You Should Know for 2005 Returns
[Finance:Taxes] Every year, you have to file tax returns and every year there are changes to the tax code. Here are some key changes for 2005 to keep in mind when you prepare returns.
- Capital Assets – Gains and Losses for Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Capital is a unique term when it comes to taxes. If it gains value, you pay a tax. If it loses it, you can write at least some of the loss off.
- Your Tip Earnings and Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] If you work in a service where you get tips, guess what? The IRS expects you to report them and pay taxes on them.
- Automatic Extension Requests For Businesses
[Finance:Taxes] The internal revenue service has recently been taking steps to cut down on clutter and streamline the tax filing process. Now they’ve simplified business tax return extensions.
- IRS Gives Victims of Hurricane Katrina More Relief
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS has announced further tax relief for victims of Hurricane Katrina due to slow clean up efforts and obviously devastated areas.
- Taxpayer Advocate – Customer Service at the IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Every business has a department that deals with complaints from customers. At the IRS, this department is known as the taxpayer advocate office.
- Tax Returns for the Deceased
[Finance:Taxes] Two things in life are certain – death and taxes. Here’s what to do if the two are combined as far as filing a tax return.
- Marriage and Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Getting married is the greatest day for 50 percent of couples. The other 50 percent get divorced. Perhaps the marriage tax penalty has something to do with it.
- Should You Itemize?
[Finance:Taxes] When you finally decide it is time to prepare your taxes, the first question is whether you should itemize your deductions or take the standard deduction provided by the IRS.
- Help Me Prepare My Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Nothing leads to more gnashing of teeth than the thought of preparing your own taxes. Fortunately, there are people out there that do it for a living.
- Hybrid Vehicles and Tax Benefits
[Finance:Taxes] You have to love car dealers. With the passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, car dealers are screaming about the tax benefits of buying these vehicles. Here’s the scoop.
- Tax Quotes and Jokes for Tax Season
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humor] Like death, paying taxes is inevitable. In the case of most Americans, tax season is just around the corner. If only paying taxes was so easy.
- 2006 List of Tax Scams Released by IRS
[Finance:Taxes] Every year, the IRS issues a list of tax scams. The goal is to alert taxpayers to the lack of merit of certain strategies as well as letting everyone know the IRS will not accept them.
- Negatives of Using Geothermal For Your Home
[Home-Improvement] Using the inherent heat in the ground, geothermal, is being pushed by many experts as a great energy source. While this is generally true, there are some negatives as well.
- Pros of Using Geothermal For Your Home
[Home-Improvement] After recovering from the shock of receiving your utility bill, you might be interested in alternative energy sources. Let’s consider the pros of using geothermal in your home.
- Using Water As a Power Source
[Reference-and-Education:Science] Water is used as a significant power source in many parts of the world. In fact, Norway uses it to produce 99 percent of its electricity. So, how does it work?
- Dealing with Bright Sun In Your Windows
[Home-Improvement:Interior-Design-and-Decorating] You purchase a home with beautiful, large windows only to find the sunlight is blinding during the day and turns the home into an oven. Here’s how you can deal with the issue.
- Using the Sun for Power - How It Works
[Reference-and-Education:Science] With massive rebate programs and tax credits being issued by state and federal governments, using the sun to generate electricity is very popular. So, how does it work?
- Million Solar Roof Initiative - U.S. Department of Energy
[Home-Improvement:Roofing] The U.S. Department of Energy has been given a mission of reducing fossil fuel dependence and pollution in the country. Its answer is the Million Solar Roof Initiative.
- Home Energy Audit - Fireplaces, Attics and More
[Home-Improvement] Conducting a home energy audit is a smart way to cut your utility bills. Many people forget, however, to look at fireplaces, attics and other less obvious spots.
- Cut Utilities Bills By Auditing Your Home
[Home-Improvement] Most people are shocked these days when they open their utility bill. By auditing your home, you can turn a monstrous utility bill into a minor annoyance.
- Kenai Fjords National Park - Stunning Views
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Every once in a while, Mother Nature produces a masterpiece that simply leaves you breathless. Kenai Fjords National Park is one such masterpiece.
- Olympic National Park - Green As Can Be
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If you love the color green, Olympic National Park is for you. Located in the State of Washington, this park is simply beautiful.
- Impressions of Siberia
[Travel-and-Leisure] Mention the word "Siberia," and images of gulags, frozen tundra and wastelands may come to mind. While there is some truth to these, my impressions of Siberia included more.
- Impressions of Russia
[Travel-and-Leisure] Whenever you travel to a country, it is important to avoid the tourist traps and get to know the locals. Here are my impressions of Russia.
- Antietam National Battlefield
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you're a history buff, Antietam National Battlefield is a national park you have to see. Antietam, of course, is a major civil war site.
- Using The Ground to Cut Your Utility Bill
[Home-Improvement] As fossil fuels get more expensive, society in general is starting to get serious about finding new power sources. Geothermal heating is a simple answer for homes.
- Cut Your Utility Bill
[Finance:Personal-Finance] Well, we’re all reeling from our utility bills. So, what can be done to cut energy costs?
- Deterring Birds From Your Home
[Home-Improvement] Bird watching is a growing phenomenon. It’s great unless you have birds "raining" down on your home. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of bird deterrents available now...
- Solar Lights for Walkways - Cut Costs
[Home-and-Family:Gardening] Over the last fifteen years, solar energy has become a highly flexible power source. One of the best ways to use it and cut costs is go with solar lighting for your walkways.
- Using The Sun To Cut Pool Heating Costs
[Home-Improvement:Swimming-Pools-Spas] One of the biggest energy expenses for homes is heating the pool. Using the power of the sun can keep you swimming in the middle of winter.
- Harnessing the Sun for Your Home - Key Components
[Home-Improvement] Using the power of the sun is becoming increasingly attractive from an economic and environmental aspect. If you’re going solar, you need to know the components.
- Do You Realize You Live In A Solar Home? Yes, You
[Home-Improvement] Mention the word solar in relation to a home and most people get ideas of panel systems on roofs. In truth, any home with windows is using solar energy.
- Selling Solar to Your Utility - Interconnection Agreements
[Home-Improvement] In many states, homeowners and businesses can now sell solar panel energy to utilities. Doing so requires an interconnection agreement with your local utility.
- How to Select an Installer for Your Solar Panels
[Home-Improvement] With the new rollout of massive federal tax credits, state subsidiary programs and net metering, going solar makes sense. So, how do you pick an installer for your system?
- Governor Schwarzenegger Turns California to Solar Roof Systems
[Home-Improvement:Roofing] While California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is known for his action films, few knew of his affinity for the sun. Turns out he is hell bent on converting California to solar.
- Going Solar - Who is Who?
[Home-Improvement] You’ve made the decision to go with solar energy for your energy needs. In going solar, you need to know who is who. Let’s take a closer look.
- Home Improvement - New Solar Technology
[Home-Improvement] Solar panel systems have always been criticized as bulky and unattractive. New solar technology is beginning to make such criticisms a thing of the past.
- The Basics of Solar Power For Your Home
[Home-Improvement] Solar power is an alternative energy source with tremendous economic and environmental benefits. If you’re considering it for your home, here are the basics.
- Industry Tax Issue Resolution Program
[Finance:Taxes] For roughly the last ten years, the internal revenue service has made a fairly major effort to be more taxpayer friendly. The Industry Tax Issue Resolution Program is one such step.
- Alternative Minimum Tax - Online Tool
[Finance:Taxes-Tools] Hell hath no fury like a person who just found out the alternative minimum tax applies to them. The IRS has set up an online tool to figure out if you do.
- Small Employers Rejoice - IRS Simplifies Filings
[Finance:Taxes] One of the largest burdens on very small employers is dealing with taxes. Fortunately, the IRS has taken a major step to reduce this burden.
- 1099-MISC Forms For Independent Contractors for 2005
[Finance:Taxes] As we begin 2006, you’re probably not thinking about taxes at all. This is a mistake as deadlines are approaching for issuing and filing 1099s for independent contractors.
- Financial Incentives for Your Business to Use Solar Power
[Business:Small-Business] When it comes to running a business, much of the necessary focus is on the bottom line. Many businesses, however, fail to realize they can seriously cut energy costs by going solar.
- Financial Incentives for Using Solar Power in Your Home
[Home-Improvement] It is undeniable that energy prices are going through the roof. Just take a look at your utility bill. The good news is using solar power can save your bank account, particularly with new incentives.
- Tax Credit for Going Solar
[Finance:Taxes] As we sit in the middle of winter, most people can’t believe how high their utility bills are. Going with solar energy can lower your bills and you get a hefty tax credit...
- Junk Faxes - New California Law Challenged
[Communications:Fax] I hate junk faxes. You hate junk faxes. We all hate junk faxes! California legislators passed a law banning them, but it has been delayed to a legal challenge.
- Preparing for 2006 - Getting Your Legal Life In Order
[Legal] As we wave goodbye to 2005 and charge into 2006, it is time to get your house in order. This is particularly true for the legal issues in your life.
- Getting Help With Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Preparing your taxes can be incredibly stressful. In many cases, it just makes sense to get some help with them.
- The History of Income Tax
[Finance:Taxes-Income] They say death and taxes are the only two certain things in life. Alas, this wasn’t always the case. Well, at least for the income tax.
- Self-Employment - Tax Approaches
[Finance:Taxes] Self-employed individuals always cringe at the amount of taxes the pay to the IRS and state. Here are different approaches for minimizing self-employment taxes.
- Innocent Spouses - Help With Ex-Spouse Tax Problems
[Finance:Taxes] Historically, tax issues arising from bad marriages fell into the category of "better or worse" in the marriage vows. The IRS historically considered spouses one person for tax purposes, but has changed its views.
- Automobile Expenses - Tax Write-Offs
[Finance:Taxes] If you use a vehicle for conducting business, you can deduct certain automobile costs from your tax bill. This is true even if you use the vehicle for personal and business needs.
- Home Office - Tax Perspective
[Finance:Taxes] Self-employed individuals often work out of their own home. If this is the case with you, here’s a primer on what you can write off for your home office.
- Birding Trails - Florida
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If you’re into birding, finding new trails is always an enjoyable task. Here’s a primer on birding trails in Florida.
- Benefits of Writing in Journals
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] The benefits of journal writing are fairly well established due to the long history of journal writing. From Anne Frank to Di Vinci, journal writing has proven itself.
- Journaling - Recording Your Rock Climbing Trips
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] Rock climbing is a great way to challenge yourself and get a heck of a view. Alas, your experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a journal for rock climbs.
- Rock Climbing in Kentucky
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] At first glance, rock climbing in Kentucky may seem like a far fetched idea. Au contraire! Red River Gorge provides great rock climbing areas in KY.
- Rock Climbing - Thailand's The Spot
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] Mention Thailand and images of beaches, elephants and Bangkok come to mind. Less known is the fact Thailand rock climbing is some of the best in the world.
- New Business - Trading Equity for Cash
[Business:Entrepreneurialism] You awake in the middle of the night with a business idea that will change the world. The only problem, of course, is you need money to get the business moving. What do you do?
- Student Loans - Lose Social Security Benefits If You Don't Pay
[Finance:Student-Loans] A vast majority of people take out student loans to pay for higher education. The Supreme Court has decided to make social security benefits a means of repaying them.
- Pacific Crest Trail - Critter Problems
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail is a must for serious hikers on the west coast and through much of the world. While it can be great, you need to keep an eye out for potential critter problems.
- Holiday Travel with Kids
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] If there were ever two words that went together, they are 'holiday' and 'travel.' They can be a pain in the neck during the holidays if you travel with kids.
- Business Strategy - Year End Considerations
[Business:Strategic-Planning] As we enter the final weeks of 2005, you are undoubtedly hunting for gifts. While these are obvious year end considerations, you should also be reviewing your business strategy for 2006.
- Corporate Records - Shareholder Inspections
[Legal] You’re conducting business as a corporation and various shareholders have kicked in investment money. Can shareholder inspections of corporate records occur?
- Corporate Records - What to Keep
[Business] Whether you’ve created a corporation or limited liability company, you must maintain records. Here’s a primer on the basic corporate records you need to maintain.
- AOL - MSN Beats Out Google
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online] In the ongoing AOL sweepstakes, it appears MSN may be the winner over Google. So, what will it mean for all three companies?
- Nigerian Scammers - Finally Going To Jail
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Security] Ah, don’t you love those Nigerian scammers? I’m the brother of Finance Minister… Well, they are finally being prosecuted and going to jail.
- Tax Refund Email Scam - IRS Warning
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS has issued a warning regarding a phishing email scam. The scam claims you are due a tax refund, but is really designed to obtain your personal information.
- Standard Mileage Deduction Rates - 2005 and 2006
[Finance:Taxes] If you’re in business, you’re interested in the IRS mileage deduction rates. The 2005 rates fluctuated because of high gas prices and now the 2006 rates have been released.
- Only in Russia - Tinda
[Travel-and-Leisure] While living in Siberia for a year, I agreed to speak at a human rights conference. Only in Russia will you find a place like Tinda, a city we stopped in on our way.
- Russia Travel Visa - Vodka and Old Friends
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you think getting a visa to travel to Russia is difficult, you should try getting one to travel around the country. Living in Russia, I needed just such a Russia travel visa.
- Joshua Tree - Hiking Ryan Mountain
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] With the onset of winter, hikers in California turn to Joshua Tree in the Mojave Desert. Hiking Ryan Mountain is good way to see an excellent summit view of the park.
- Unique Gifts for Mom
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Ah, what to buy for beloved mom for Christmas. Here’s a list of unique gifts for mom that are sure to make her smile.
- Unusual Gifts For A Woman
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Buying gifts for women can be difficult to say the least. Here’s a primer on unusual gifts for a woman, ones that will get a smile out of her.
- Inexpensive Christmas Gifts - Go Unique
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] The holidays are quickly approaching, which means it’s time to buy gifts. If you’re a little light on funds, following are ideas for inexpensive Christmas gifts.
- Travel Gift Ideas - Christmas Presents
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Looking for travel gift ideas? Here are a few that make great Christmas presents or just good old travel gifts.
- Rock Climbing - Christmas Gift Ideas
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] We all know someone who’s idea of a good time is hanging off cliffs. If you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas for a rock climbing enthusiast, here’s some unique rock climbing gift ideas.
- Fly Fishing Gift Ideas - Christmas Presents
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews:Gifts] Coming up with fly fishing gift ideas is a surprisingly simple task. Here are a few fly fishing gift ideas that will make great Christmas presents.
- Bird Watching Presents - Christmas Gift Ideas
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews:Gifts] Bird watchers are rabid about bird watching, and rightfully so. If you are looking for Christmas gift ideas for bird watching presents, here are a few keepers.
- Hiking Gifts - Gift Ideas for Hiking Presents
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews:Gifts] Hiking is a healthy, relaxing pursuit for hikers. If you’re buying for a hiking enthusiast this holiday season, here are a few gift ideas for hiking presents.
- Holiday Journals - Preserve Your Holiday Experiences
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] The holidays are a great time to gather the family. Alas, your holiday experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a journal for your holidays.
- Holiday Shopping Online - Delivery Rules For Your Orders
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Holiday shopping online has taken a lot of stress out the holiday season with one exception. What if your order doesn’t show up on time? Here are the delivery rules.
- Traveling For Thanksgiving - Keeping Kids Busy
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Thanksgiving is a time for gathering the family, but how do you keep kids interested while in the car or sitting in airports? Have them keep journals.
- FBI and FCC Seek Control of Software Industry
[Legal] With government agencies, one often has to try to guess what they are hiding. A close look at a FCC policy document released at 9 p.m. on a Friday may shock you.
- Grokster - Rest In Peace
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Grokster fought the law and the law won. Having lost in a Supreme Court ruling, Grokster has shut down and settled with the recording and movie industry.
- TransUnion Credit Agency - Customer Data Stolen
[Legal:Identity-Theft] It seems a day doesn’t go by without a company announcing it has lost or had customer data stolen. TransUnion Credit Agency has now joined the parade of identity theft.
- Net Telephone Services In Trouble - 911 FCC Rules Upheld
[Communications:VOIP] Net telephone service providers are facing a huge problem. A court has upheld FCC regulations requiring the voice over internet protocol providers to provide 911 services.
- Mountain, Ice, and Rock Climbing Gift Ideas
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] Some people just have the urge to climb up and up. If you’re giving gifts to a climber, here are a few mountain, ice and rock climbing gift ideas.
- Bird Watching Gifts - Holiday Gift Ideas
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews:Gifts] Bird watching is one of the fastest growing interests in the world. If you’re buying for a bird watcher, here’s a primer on ideas for bird watching gifts.
- National Parks - Get Out of Your Car!
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] The national park system in the United States is full of beauty and surprises. Still, you’ll be wondering if they’re worth it when you run into the crowds of other visitors.
- Gift Ideas for Canoeing Enthusiasts
[Recreation-and-Sports] Finding good Christmas gifts ideas is easy if you think about a person’s hobbies. If you are buying for person who enjoys canoeing, here are a few ideas for canoeing gifts.
- Kayaking Gifts for Christmas
[Recreation-and-Sports] Finding good Christmas gifts ideas is easy if you think about a persons hobbies. If you are buying for person who enjoys kayaking, here are a few ideas for kayaking gifts.
- Unique Travel Gifts for Christmas
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews:Gifts] Coming up with unique Christmas gift ideas can be difficult. If you’re buying for a traveler, here are a few unique travel gifts you should consider.
- Unique Camping Gift Ideas for Christmas
[Travel-and-Leisure:Camping] As November passes quickly, it is time to start thinking about buying Christmas gifts. Here’s a primer on unique Christmas gift ideas for people who like to go camping.
- Unique Backpacking Christmas Gift Ideas for Backpackers
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews:Gifts] Christmas gift ideas can be hard to come by. If you’re buying for a backpacker, here are a few unique backpacking gift ideas.
- Fly Fishing Gifts for Christmas
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Christmas is a wonderful time of the year unless you’re having problems coming up with gift ideas. Here are a few fly fishing gift ideas.
- Christmas Gift Ideas for Hikers
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Christmas gift ideas can be hard to come by. If you’re buying for a hiker, here are a few hiking gift ideas to consider.
- Russian Thanksgiving Dinner - Mystery Ingredients
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] Living for a year in Siberia was bound to results in a few laughs. There was no funnier time than my effort to celebrate Thanksgiving.
- Christmas Gifts for Her - A Unique Approach
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] The holidays are quickly approaching and that means you need to come up with Christmas gifts for her. Instead of stressing out, consider the following approach.
- Christmas Gifts for Him - It's That Time Again
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] With the holidays quickly approaching, it is time to start trying to think of creative gift ideas. If you are looking for Christmas gifts for him, here’s the right approach.
- Grunion Runs - Fishing With Your Hands In San Diego
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fishing is peaceful and inspiring sport regardless of the type of fishing your doing. Well, with one exception – grunion runs.
- Fly Fishing On The Green River - Paradise Lost
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fly fishing is all about finding a great location, preferably in the middle of a hatch. The Green River in Utah was one such place, but is it still?
- Bird Watching Competitions - I Spy With My Little Eye
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Bird watching typically conjures up images of people pursuing a relaxing day of staring into the sky with binoculars. Ah, but then there is the competitive side of birding.
- Pacific Crest Trail - History and Hiking It
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] The Pacific Crest Trail runs over the mountain ranges dividing the west coast and the rest of the nation. There is a lot of history tied to the trail and it offers great hiking.
- Giant Sequoias - Hiking Boole Tree Loop
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] The Giant Sequoia trees of California are a site to see. Despite heavy logging efforts, you can still hike through these massive trees on the Boole Tree Loop.
- Athens Taxi Ride - Extreme Sports
[Travel-and-Leisure] Athens is a huge, congested city and the local taxis are your main means of getting around. The average Athens tax ride is inexpensive, just bring your helmet.
- Athens - A Walk On The Wild Side
[Travel-and-Leisure] Athens is known for archeological sites and history. If you want a break from history, Athens has much more to offer travelers.
- Athens, Greece - A Whirlwind of History
[Travel-and-Leisure] Athens is the pre-eminent city of Greece and the main arrival destination. No city mixes history and a chaotic energy better than Athens.
- Greece - History and a Modern Touch
[Travel-and-Leisure] Many consider Greece the cradle of modern civilization. The historical sites in the country are impressive. Still, Greece also has modern touches making it a good travel destination.
- Italy - Naples and Sorrento
[Travel-and-Leisure] Italy is really two countries in one with the wealthy, historic north dominating. To get a taste of the south, Naples and Sorrento are your destinations.
- Italy - Milan and Pisa
[Travel-and-Leisure] When visiting Italy, it seems every destination has enough historical sites to keep you busy for a month. Oddly, Milan and Pisa don’t fall into this category.
- Florence, Italy - Of David and Such
[Travel-and-Leisure] Often consider “Rome Light”, Florence is the city of the Medici and art galore. Despite this, there is an odd modern influence in this hallowed city.
- Siena, Italy - Medieval Life and Horse Racing
[Recreation-and-Sports:Horse-Racing] Italy has many well-known travel destinations such as Rome. Less publicized destinations such as Siena are even better.
- The Copper River Delta Shorebirds Festival - Bird Watching Alaska Style
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Held in Cordova, Alaska, the Copper River Delta Shorebirds Festival is a bird watcher’s dream come true. Hundreds of thousands birds migrate to the delta for your sighting pleasure.
- The Great Salt Lake Bird Watching Festival in Utah
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Coming up on its eighth year, the Great Salt Lake Bird Watching Festival is good get away for birders. Of course, a chance to visit Salt Lake City isn’t so bad either.
- The Oregon Trail - Beginning in Arrow Rock, Missouri
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] The Oregon Trail holds a unique place in the history of the United States. Thousands of pioneers used the trail to populate the middle and western parts of the country in the 19th century.
- Fly Fishing in Russia
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] A few years back, I spent a year living in Siberia and had a chance to head out to a town called Tinda. Much to my surprise, a couple of the locals had fly fishing on the menu.
- Fly Fishing - I Know Knot What I Do
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] When it comes to fly fishing, tying a knot is not the most glamorous of subjects. Without a knot, however, you’ll not be snatching the Muskie of your dreams.
- Calcutta, India - More Than You've Heard
[Travel-and-Leisure] Calcutta, India is a city known for having a serious poverty problem. While this is true, there is much more to the place.
- Delhi, India - A Mix of Old and New
[Travel-and-Leisure] Like many cities in India, Delhi is packed to the gills with people. Delhi is unique, however, because it mixes the old with the new.
- Travel Journals - How To Keep A Travel Journal
[Travel-and-Leisure] It goes without saying that memories of trips and vacations fade with time. If you learn how to keep a travel journal, this need not be the case.
- Mumbai (Bombay), India - Getting In Touch With Your Fellow Man
[Travel-and-Leisure] India is one of the most populous nations in the world. The city of Mumbai, better known as Bombay, carries this notion to ridiculous ends.
- Siberian Bus Rides - Getting Funky With Your Bad Self
[Travel-and-Leisure] Living in Siberia for a year allowed me to experience things I never would have in San Diego. Getting funky with your bad self on Siberian bus rides was one such thing.
- Travel Guidebooks - The Horror Section
[Travel-and-Leisure] Travel guidebooks are like bibles for most travelers and sources of information salvation in a tight spot. Just try to avoid the horror section.
- Varanasi, India - The City of Death
[Travel-and-Leisure] Travel to the city of Varanasi and you will travel back in time. No other city in India will impact you more than ancient Varanasi.
- India - The Country From Another Planet
[Travel-and-Leisure] I am firmly convinced the country of India was transplanted from another planet. You will find no other place like it on this world.
- Mexico Beaches - Playa Del Carmen and Cozumel
[Travel-and-Leisure] Mexico has beautiful beaches on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean. In this article, we look at two hot spots on the east coast – Playa del Carmen and Cozumel
- Mexico Beaches - Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco
[Travel-and-Leisure] Mexico beaches come in all shapes and sizes. Two of the most famous areas are Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco.
- Mexico Beaches - Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada
[Travel-and-Leisure] With shores on two oceans, Mexico is a beach lover’s paradise. Here’s a primer on three of the beach areas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada
- Holland - The Keukenhof Gardens
[Travel-and-Leisure] Holland is the land of tulips. When it comes to seeing tulips, no place in the world outdoes the Keukenhof Gardens.
- Travel Jokes
[Travel-and-Leisure] Traveling can be a humbling experience, particularly when you travel to a foreign country. Such experiences, of course, give rise to travel jokes.
- Wat Doi Suthep, Chang Mai - A Not So Spiritual Journey
[Travel-and-Leisure] The Buddhist Temples in Thailand are simply impressive. This is particularly true of Wat Doi Suthep, the mountain temple outside Chang Mai.
- Thailand - Chang Mai and the Night Market
[Travel-and-Leisure] Chang Mai is the largest city in the north of Thailand and well worth a trip. In many ways, Chang Mai is similar to Bangkok, but without the mass of people.
- Thailand - The Land of Smiles and Cheap Travel
[Travel-and-Leisure] Thailand is known as the land of smiles, which is amazing considering the traffic jams in Bangkok. For budget travelers, Thailand simply can’t beat on price alone.
- Holland - Beyond Amsterdam
[Travel-and-Leisure] When people think of Holland, Amsterdam is usually the first place that comes to mind. Shockingly, places like Rotterdam and The Hague prove there is more to the country. Really!
- Amsterdam - A Clash of Styles
[Travel-and-Leisure] The city of Amsterdam is a clash of styles, both conservative and liberal. Whatever your personal views, Amsterdam is a city you have to visit at least once.
- Costa Rica - Tales of the Guaro
[Travel-and-Leisure] Every country has a unique beverage it claims as its own. In Costa Rica, the beverage of choice is Guaro.
- Costa Rica - VW Vans and Crawling Things
[Travel-and-Leisure] For better or worse, man has tamed Mother Nature in many countries. My general impression is this isn’t the case in Costa Rica.
- Playing Chess in Russia - The Agony of Victory
[Travel-and-Leisure] Russians have a thing for chess and, frankly, are very good at it. Being from San Diego, I thought chess was something you put photo albums in.
- Costa Rica - San Jose and Tamarindo
[Travel-and-Leisure] Over the last ten years, the reputation of Costa Rica as a travel destination has grown leaps and bounds. Good places to visit include San Jose and Tamarindo.
- Writing and Walking - Beating Writer's Block
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Writing and walking are a seemingly odd mix of topics for an article, but they go well together. Particularly if you write during breaks in your walk.
- Jam Band Writing Journals - Track Your Shows
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Following jam bands is a blast because of the music, places you see and cool people you meet. Jam band journals are great ways to keep track of your shows.
- Russian Romance - I Love You
[Travel-and-Leisure] Romance and Russia, the two words just go together. Unless, of course, you are trying to speak in Russian.
- World Series In Russia - Huh What
[Recreation-and-Sports:Baseball] As we watch the Astros choke or White Sox perform valiantly depending on your point of view, I am reminded of my baseball experience in Russia.
- Halloween In Siberia - Sort Of
[Travel-and-Leisure] Live in another country and you’ll start to experience serious cultural differences. This is particularly true as I discovered with Halloween in Siberia.
- Halloween Fly Fishing - The Ultimate Bite
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Halloween and fly fishing may seem like an odd mix, but not for true anglers. Yep, I’m talking about the ultimate test of your abilities and nerve.
- Halloween Bird Watching - The Dark Side
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Bird watching is just about the most unobjectionable hobby in the world. With Halloween approaching, however, it is time to discuss the dark, dark, dark side of birding.
- Bird Watching Binoculars - Critical Bird Watching Equipment
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Avid bird watching enthusiasts often look like pack mules hiking to a gold rush in the west. Bird watching binoculars are one of the critical pieces of equipment they carry.
- Bird Watching - Writing What You See
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] No bird watcher is complete without his or her bird watching journals. When you go bird watching, you need to keep your life list.
- White Water Rafting - Preserve Your Experiences
[Travel-and-Leisure:Adventure-Travel] White water rafting is simply a blast and a great way to get away from the clutter of life. Alas, your rafting experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a white water rafting journal.
- Hiking Trails - Preserve Your Experiences
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Hiking is a great way to escape the rat race, get out in nature and leave the stress of the world behind. Alas, your hiking experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a hiking journal.
- Mountain Climbing - Preserve Your Experiences
[Recreation-and-Sports:Climbing] Mountain climbing is a great way to escape the rat race and be one with nature. Alas, your mountain climbing experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a mountain climbing journal for your adventures.
- France - Bordeaux and St. Tropez
[Travel-and-Leisure] France and Paris, Paris and France. You’ll have a great time exploring Paris, but you’ll miss places like Bordeaux and St. Tropez if you don’t get out of the city.
- Austria Off The Beaten Path - Zell Am See, Innsbruck and Bad Gastein
[Travel-and-Leisure] Mention Austria and everyone thinks of Vienna and Salzburg. In addition to great names, Zell am See, Innsbruck and Bad Gastein are great locations off the beaten path.
- North Spain - Santander, Zargoza and Vigo
[Travel-and-Leisure] Madrid and the attractions of southern Spain tend to get all of the attention. In the northern part of the country, Santander, Zargoza and Vigo are hidden gems.
- Old Spanish Charm - Valencia, Granada and Seville
[Travel-and-Leisure] Much of Spain has undergone a modernization effort. Fortunately, cities such as Valencia, Granada and Seville retain much of their old world charm.
- Spain - Madrid, Barcelona and Ibiza
[Travel-and-Leisure] Spain is the land of romance and amazing oddities. From bullfights to Gaudi to partying the night away on Ibiza, travelers could easily spend a year exploring Spain.
- Bylaws - The Guts of a Corporation
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Most states make forming a corporation relatively painless by providing forms for practically everything. The bylaws of the corporation, however, are an area you don’t want to rely on a form.
- Solicitations To Prepare Your Corporate Minutes
[Legal] Every corporate entity must hold board meetings and keep corporate minutes. This doesn’t mean you have to be sucked in by the corporate minute preparation solicitations.
- Shopping Online For The Holidays - Don't Get Ripped Off
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] We are quickly approaching that time of the year where the Internet pays off in spades – the holidays. Here’s a primer on protecting yourself while buying online.
- Lost or Stolen ATM Debit Cards - Your Liability
[Legal] As our economy becomes more and more digital, ATM debit cards have become a frequent payment method. This article discusses your liability for lost or stolen card charges.
- Selling Corporate Shares - Be Careful
[Investing:Stocks] One of the touted advantages of owning a corporation is the ease in transferring shares. In many cases, this assumed benefit is simply wrong.
- Cambodia - The Blind Masseuses
[Travel-and-Leisure] Cambodia has seen far more than its fair share of tragedy and misery. The blind masseuses offer a glimpse of the true Cambodian heart and will to carry on.
- Sihanoukville, Cambodia - Mother Nature Playing Nightly
[Travel-and-Leisure] Sihanoukville is a sleepy beach town in Cambodia on the Gulf of Thailand. In December, the beach is a great place to watch Mother Nature do her thing in spectacular fashion.
- Ko Chang, Thailand - Water Festival of Loi Kathong
[Travel-and-Leisure] Thailand is a land of enchanting and exotic tastes for foreign visitors as I was to learn when I experienced the Water Festival of Loi Kathong on the island of Ko Chang.
- Venice, Italy - The Bird Lady
[Travel-and-Leisure] Venice is an old and somewhat eccentric city in Italy. Built long ago on marshlands, I was surprised to find myself spending my first night in the city with the bird lady.
- Eastern Russia - Vladivostok, Khabarovsk and Magadan
[Travel-and-Leisure] With an incredibly large land mass, Russia is really many countries in one. In this article, we take a look at travel destinations in the Far East.
- Romania - Bucharest, Dracula and Transylvania
[Travel-and-Leisure] Mention Romania and people immediately think of Dracula and a mid-evil country. Recovering from years of economic misery, Romania is quickly becoming the hidden jewel of Eastern Europe.
- Monaco - The Wealthy Conclave of Europe
[Travel-and-Leisure] Perched over the Mediterranean Ocean, Monaco is a picturesque country. With very high prices, most travelers can only afford to spend one day in this conclave for the rich.
- Monte Carlo - Paradise of a Different Sort
[Travel-and-Leisure] Monte Carlo is the city of glitz and over the top indulgence. I had to see it for at least a day trip and ended up finding my food paradise.
- Sweden Travel - Stockholm and Karlskrona
[Travel-and-Leisure] Known as the land of Vikings, Sweden is actually an odd mix of cosmopolitan cities and vast stretches of wide-open spaces. For budget travelers, Sweden is a bit expensive.
- IRS Reacts to High Gas Prices
[Finance:Taxes] As most small businesses are aware, a tax deduction can be taken for mileage incurred in normal business travel. In light of high gas prices, the IRS has upped the mileage rate.
- IRS Extends Tax Deadlines for Katrina Victims
[Finance:Taxes] Following Katrina, the IRS acted quickly to relieve victims of any tax burdens. One step was to extend any tax filing dates to late October and now those dates have been extended again.
- IRS Gives Employees-Employers Unique Way To Help Katrina Victims
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS has never been known as a creative beaurocracy. To promote donations to Katrina victims, however, it is being very creative.
- Fly Fishing - In Search of the Chase
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] With fly fishing, sometimes it is all about the chase. Here’s a day trip that looked unfruitful, but turned out alright in the end.
- Tying Fly Fishing Flies - The Frankenstein Fly
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] You can buy flies for fly fishing, but you’ll want to tie your own at some point. Undoubtedly, your first fly will be the Frankenstein Fly.
- Fly Fishing - Catch and Release Yourself
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] When fly fishing, many anglers prefer to catch and release their fly fishing prizes. Still, what should you do when you’re the prize?
- A Day at the Summer Palace of Peter the Great
[Travel-and-Leisure] For elegance and old world feel, St. Petersburg is by far the best Russian city. If you go, a visit to Peterhof, the summer palace of Peter the Great is a must.
- Peter the Great's Summer Palace - St. Petersburg, Russia
[Travel-and-Leisure] During the communist reign in Russia, architectural styles could best be described as bland. Fortunately, the summer palace of Peter the Great wasn’t affected.
- Ya Mule! - Backpacking In Siena, Italy
[Travel-and-Leisure] Ah, the glamour of backpacking through Europe. Of course, the glamour comes with a price as I found in Siena, Italy.
- Travel to Italy - Rome and Venice
[Travel-and-Leisure] Where does one begin to start when discussing Italy. Well, if you intend to travel there, Rome and Venice are good places to start.
- Flying Internationally on Chartered Planes
[Travel-and-Leisure:Aviation-Airplanes] If you’re a budget traveler, chartered planes will cross your travel planning path at some point in time. The quality of charter flights can be both good and bad.
- The Ultimate Traveler's Day Dream Come True
[Travel-and-Leisure] More than a few times, I’ve caught myself sitting at work day dreaming about dropping everything and just jumping on a plane. In October of 2003, I did just that.
- Lagos, Portugal - Casa Rosa and Joe's Garage
[Travel-and-Leisure] If you’re a budget traveler or backpacking Europe, Lagos is a cheap slice of paradise. Casa Rosa is the place for general sustenance, while Joe’s Garage is a place to let go.
- Lost in Lagos, Portugal
[Travel-and-Leisure] Lagos is a small town in Portugal built on a large hill overlooking the Mediterranean Ocean. While its old world charm is evident during the day, it can be a real pain at night.
- Portugal - Lisbon, Algarve, and Lagos
[Travel-and-Leisure] On the southwestern tip of continental Europe, Portugal is an old school country. In this article, we take a look at Lisbon, Lagos and the Algarve.
- Nearly Broke in Nice, France
[Travel-and-Leisure] I had been backpacking for three months around Europe and had reached my final destination of Nice. Too bad I had 10 days till my flight home and I was nearly broke!
- France at 200 Kph - of Grandmothers, Lyon and Rain
[Travel-and-Leisure] In my teens, I traveled to France with my mother, father and grandmother for a month of sightseeing with a rental car. Michael Schumacher and Formula 1 have nothing on my father and our Opel rental car.
- France - Paris and Nice
[Travel-and-Leisure] From beaches to the alps, France has a little of something for everyone. In this article, we take a look at Paris and the beach city of Nice.
- Copenhagen - Ice Rinks and Danish Elephants
[Travel-and-Leisure] On my first visit to Denmark, I fell in love with the country and the city of Copenhagen. Contrary to my guidebook, you could see elephants and experience ice hockey in the dead of summer.
- Denmark - Copenhagen, Helsingor and Beverages
[Travel-and-Leisure] Denmark is one of the hippest countries in Europe. Copenhagen is the center of activity with a lively evening scene, palaces and castles.
- Living In Siberia - Lenin's Revenge
[Travel-and-Leisure] In 1999, I moved to Chita, a city in Siberia, Russia to teach for a year. After seven days of planes, trains and, well, more trains, I was ready to experience Chita in all its glory.
- Halstatt, Austria - Scoffing at the Sound of Music
[Travel-and-Leisure] Set in Austria, the Sound of Music is an epic film spurring dreams of a heavenly land in every child that sees the movie. In truth, they should have filmed the movie in Halstatt, Austria.
- Switzerland - Interlaken, Zurich, St. Moritz and Geneva
[Travel-and-Leisure] Switzerland is the land of skiing, chocolate and very private banking. Ah, but there is so much more to experience in the land of neutrality.
- Austria - Vienna, Salzburg, Halstatt and Sound of Music
[Travel-and-Leisure] Austria simply can’t be beat when it comes to beauty. You’ve seen the country in the Sound of Music, but the cities of Vienna, Salzburg and the alpine town of Halstatt are just as nice.
- Albania - Tirana, Korca, and Petrela Castle
[Travel-and-Leisure] Located in Southeastern Europe, Albania is a country off of the beaten travel road. Of course, this makes Albania a great place to visit.
- Hungary Travel - Lake Balaton, Visegrad, and Szentendre
[Travel-and-Leisure] When visiting Hungary, it is easy to fall in love with Budapest and never venture beyond the city. If this happens, you’ll rue the day you missed a chance to visit Lake Balaton, Visegrad and Szentendre.
- Margaret Island - Paradise in Budapest
[Travel-and-Leisure] The Danube River runs through the center of Budapest in Hungary. In the middle of the city chaos lays an oasis of tranquility, Margaret Island.
- Budapest - Health Resort Spas
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] Budapest is an amazing city with so many attractions that it is hard to know where to start. The health resort spas seem as good a place as any.
- Loincloths and Tenderizing at a Budapest Spa
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] The Gellert Hotel Spa is renowned as the ultimate spa destination in Hungary. Here’s a first hand account of the Gellert experience.
- Budapest, Hungary - The Castle District
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] Towering a couple hundred feet above the Danube River, the Castle District in Budapest is a special place. Surrounded by gothic churches with stain glass, a visit to the Castle District is like stepping back into the renaissance.
- Budapest, Hungary - An Incredible City
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] Located in Eastern Europe, Hungary is diverse and beautiful country. The undisputed treasure of the country is Budapest.
- Doh! IRS Loses Taxes In San Francisco Bay
[Finance:Taxes] On September 23, 2005, the Internal Revenue Service began sending notices to tax payers in thirteen states that there may be a problem with their tax payments. Here is the scoop.
- Why You Should Care About Taxes In September
[Finance:Taxes] Taxes, taxes, taxes – who cares about taxes in September? The end of the year isn’t for another three months and I don’t have to file till April 2006. Who is even thinking of these things now? Well, you should be.
- Business Entities - Filings With The State
[Legal] Nearly all small businesses should form entities to limit their exposure to civil liability in the form of lawsuits. In forming an entity, certain documents have to be filed with the state in question.
- Business Entity Mistakes - Criminal Conduct and Independence
[Legal] In this age of information, most small business owners understand they need the protection provided by a corporation or limited liability company. Such protection, however, can be lost though certain actions.
- Chita, Siberia - A Little History
[Travel-and-Leisure] In 1999, I decided to live a year in the city of Chita, Russia. For those not in the know, Chita is a city in Siberia.
- Siberia, Russia, Part 9 - Chita
[Travel-and-Leisure] After deciding to move to Siberia for a year to teach at the Chita State Technical University, I embarked on a travel odyssey unlike any other. In this entry, we pick up the last stage of the seven-day trip to get there.
- Siberia, Russia, Part 8 - The Slow Train
[Travel-and-Leisure] After deciding to move to Siberia for a year to teach at the Chita State Technical University, I embarked on a travel odyssey unlike any other. In this entry, we pick up the trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway.
- Siberia, Russia, Part 7 - The Trans-Siberian Railway
[Travel-and-Leisure] After deciding to move to Siberia for a year to teach at the Chita State Technical University, I embarked on a travel odyssey unlike any other. In this entry, we pick up the trip leaving the train station in Khabarovsk.
- Xcaret, Mexico - Back To Nature or Maybe Not
[Travel-and-Leisure] Xcaret is located roughly 45 minutes south of Cancun, Mexico. The park is advertised as an ecological and archaeological Disneyland. While there is a definite back to nature feel to the place, it is expensive and crowded with more than a slight overtone of commercialism.
- Isla Mujeres, Mexico - The Island of Women
[Travel-and-Leisure] Isla Mujeres in Mexico is a great way to escape the tourist crush in Cancun. Roughly 9 miles offshore, the island contains the Mexican beach culture of a bygone era. Oh, and the name translates to “The Island of Women.”
- Cancun, Mexico - A Little Something For Everyone
[Travel-and-Leisure] A sleepy island area in the 1970s, Cancun has been transformed into a mega tourist destination. Located on the Caribbean side of Mexico, this resort area has something for everyone.
- Riviera Maya, Mexico - Paradise Defined
[Travel-and-Leisure] The Riviera Maya on the Caribbean coast was a secret getaway to paradise for many years. No longer. Now it is considered one of the finest beach areas in the world.
- Business Entities - A Quick Guide
[Legal] Business entities comes in so many types that business owners can easily get confused. Here’s a quick guide that will hopefully shed a little light on business entities for you.
- Legal Terms - A Quick Guide
[Legal] Legal issues and problems are stressful, complex and inevitable. If you get wrapped up in legal issues, it sometimes helps to understand the lingo being bandied about.
- Google's Book Scanning and Copyright Laws
[Legal:Cyber-Law] As you may know, Google is making an effort to scan every book in the world. The goal is to create a giant online database of every book that can be searched. One small problem is the fact that Google is violating copyright laws.
- Microsoft V. Google - Kai-Fu Lee's Non-Compete Agreement
[Legal] Unless you’ve been on vacation all summer, the brawl between Google and Microsoft should be old news. New developments, however, have occurred with publication of the non-compete agreement signed by Kai-Fu Lee.
- Privacy Rights - Big Brother's Bumbling
[Legal] The General Accounting Office has reported the federal government is ignoring individual privacy rights of citizens. Not only is it ignoring guidelines, the actions being taken may server to put your privacy at more risk of being violated.
- Hurricane Katrina - How To Use Your Business Loss To Get A Refund on 2004 Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] With the massive losses caused by Katrina, the economy of the Gulf Coast region is in extremely bad shape. Fortunately, there is a quirk in the tax code that can help you generate a large refund from your 2004 taxes.
- Hurricane Katrina - Businesses Can Claim Casualty Tax Losses
[News-and-Society] Hurricane Katrina has left a wide and long path of destruction. Besides the human toll, businesses on the Gulf Coast have taken a beating. If yours is one, here is how you can write off casualty losses on your taxes.
- Accounting Methods - Cash and Accrual
[Business:Small-Business] When starting a business, you have to determine the method you are going to use for accounting and paying taxes. The two choices are the cash method and the accrual method.
- Fraudulent Tax Shelters - KMPG Goes Down Hard
[Finance:Taxes] In the largest criminal tax case ever filed, KMPG has copped a plea to using fraudulent tax shelters to bilk the government out of 2.5 billion dollars. KMPG has agreed to pay a fine of $456 million dollars, but nine of its executives still are under indictment.
- Hurricane Katrina - IRS Waiving Diesel Fuel Penalties
[News-and-Society] Obviously, the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina has had a major impact on fuel supplies. The IRS is temporarily waiving regulations that ban the sale of certain diesel fuels to address shortages.
- Victims of Hurricane Katrina - IRS Gives Tax Relief
[News-and-Society] In response to the devastation along the Gulf Coast, the IRS is giving tax relief to victims of Hurricane Katrina. The following steps are expected to be expanded upon in the next few weeks. The IRS seems to realize it is hard to file your taxes if your home or business is gone.
- Failure To Pay Employment Taxes - Penalties
[Finance:Taxes] As an employer, you must pay employment taxes if you have employees. Fail to pay and the IRS will rain all over your parade.
- Employment Taxes - Depositing With The IRS
[Finance:Taxes] If your business has employees, you must pay employment taxes. The payment system can be a bit confusing, so this article discusses how to go about depositing employment taxes with the IRS.
- Paying Workers - What Can You Write-Off?
[Finance:Taxes] As your business grows, you are going to need help. This help comes in the form of employees and independent contractors. What you can write-off is dependent upon how your helper is classified – as an employee or independent contractor.
- Forming a Corporation - Investors
[Business:Small-Business] You’ve come up with the best idea since sliced bread, figured out a business name and formed a corporation. There is, however, one small problem. You need money. Welcome to the world of investing.
- Minority Shareholders - Fighting The Man
[Legal] Investing in a corporate entity is fairly standard practice in our society. Problems arise when you own a small percentage of shares, but disagree with the majority shareholders. As a minority shareholder, do you have any way to fight “the man?"
- S Corporations - Filing The Election
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Getting a corporation designated as an “S” can be a bit confusing. If you are committed to getting an “S” corporation, here is how you file the election.
- Tax Benefits of 'C' Corporations - Business Failure
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Statistics show that many businesses will fail. If you can survive the first two years, chances of your business succeeding go up dramatically. But what if you don’t make it? If you have a “C” corporation, you may get a tax break.
- Tax Benefits of A 'C' Corporation - Funding
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] If you are going to form a corporation, you might be surprised to learn a “C” corporation comes with a lot of tax benefits. While this article isn’t intended to replace the advice of a good tax professional, it may serve to open your eyes to the value of a “C” corporation.
- Fly Fishing Rods - Getting The Bends
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Picking a fly fishing rod is a tricky endeavor. While length is a factor, the bend or action of the rod is a key factor.
- Back To School - Educators Deduct School Expenses
[Finance:Taxes] As teachers and students head back to school following a glorious summer, it’s time to remind teachers to organize 2004 school expenses. Under a temporary tax code change, teachers can deduct certain school-related expenses from adjusted gross income.
- Bird Watching Life Lists - Keeping A Record
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] If you’re a birder, you want to keep a list of sightings when you bird watch. Your life lists should be kept in a bird watching journal.
- California Business Entities - How Long Does It Take To Get Approved?
[Legal] You’ve done your research and have decided on a business entity. You’re chomping at the bit to open a bank account and get moving. You file your corporation or LLC with the Secretary of State and wait…and wait…and wait. Just how long is this going to take?
- Bird Watching Journals - Preserve Your Bird Watching Experiences
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Bird Watching is a great way to escape the rat race and be one with nature. Alas, your bird watching experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a bird watching journal for your sightings and trips.
- Backpacking Journals - Preserve Your Backpacking Experiences
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] Backpacking is a great way to escape the rat race and be one with nature. Alas, your backpacking experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a backpacking journal for your adventures.
- Camping Journals - Preserve Your Camping Experiences
[Travel-and-Leisure:Camping] Camping is a great way to escape the rat race and be one with nature. Alas, your camping experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a camping journal for your adventures.
- Bird Watching Mecca - 338 Species At Acadia National Park
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] When it comes to birding, Acadia National Park is a mecca for sightings. The Park has 338 bird species, which is a record for any national park in the United States. The list of species includes such rare birds as the bald eagle, 23 warbler variations and falcons by the bushel load. If you’re looking to fill out your life list, Acadia is the place to be.
- IRS Lock-In Letters - What's An Employer To Do?
[Finance:Taxes] Employers often ask employees to designate the amount of tax withholdings for paychecks. Occasionally, employees will fail to withhold a sufficient amount in the eyes of the IRS. The IRS will then send a “lock-in” letter on the amount to be withheld. What’s an employer to do?
- Incorporating Tips - Capitalization
[Business] Capitalizing a new business entity is a critical step of the formation process. Failing to take the step can lead to serious legal problems if the entity is ever sued. So, what is capitalization and what steps must be taken?
- New Requirements for Travelers Entering the United States
[Travel-and-Leisure] Travelers to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada will be required to have a passport to enter or re-enter the United States. This is a major change from previous entry requirements. Make sure you understand the new requirements.
- Holland Travel - Amsterdam, Van Gogh, Anne Frank
[Travel-and-Leisure] Holland certainly has a reputation with travelers. Known for having a very liberal attitude on social issues such as prostitution and drugs, the reputation is not always deserved. Yes, marijuana and prostitution is legal, but there is so much more to the country. Many look at Amsterdam as Holland, but visitors know there is much more. If you desire to travel to Holland, also known as the Netherlands, don’t miss these attractions.
- Ecuador Travel - Quito, Volcanoes, Galapagos Island
[Travel-and-Leisure] Located in the Andeas, Ecuador is a land of intrigue for travelers. Travel to Ecuador and you can trek the Amazon, climb volcanoes, or loaf on beautiful beaches. Perhaps the biggest reason to travel to Ecuador is a visit to the famous Galapagos Islands. Regardless of your preference, the following attractions are all worth a look.
- How To Give Notice of Copyright On Your Works
[Legal:Copyright] The use of a copyright notice is no longer required under U. S. law, but you should still give notice whenever possible. Because prior law did contain such a requirement, however, the use of notice is still relevant to the copyright status of older works.
- Copyright - What Can You Protect?
[Legal:Copyright] The legal protection known has “copyright” has come front and center over the past few years with major legal rulings regarding peer-to-peer networks on the Internet. Copyright protection, however, can be a confusing area of the law. This article details what can and cannot be protected by copyright.
- The Secret To Keeping Kids Interested on Family Vacations
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] Vacations and trips are great family events, but how do you keep kids interested and busy during the down times? Have them keep journals of the trips and their impressions.
- Fly Fishing Journals - Keep Track of Your Trips
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] Fly fishing is addictive. Once you start, you'll never stop. Whether you are going to the local water hole or to Alaska, you should use a fly fishing journal to keep track of your sessions.
- Travel Journals - Preserve Your Travel Experiences
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] Traveling is a great way to escape the rat race and experience new cultures and places. Alas, your experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a travel journal for your trips.
- Send Your Kids To Summer Camp and Write It Off
[Finance:Taxes] If you paid someone to care for a child so you could work, you may be able claim a tax credit for child and dependent care expenses on your federal income tax return. This credit is available to people who, in order to work or to look for work, have to pay for child care services for dependents under age 13.
- What You Need To Know About Taxes If You're Getting Married
[Finance:Taxes] It may not be high on the list of wedding planning activities, but there are a few simple steps that can help keep tax issues from interrupting your newly wedded bliss. If you recently married, check out your new tax situation. You might save money or even prevent the problem of a missing refund check.
- What to Do If You Can't Pay Your Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] The end of tax filing extensions is quickly approaching. What do you do if you can’t pay the amounts you owe? You should still file your return by the due date and pay as much as you can. There are, however, additional steps that might help.
- Licensing Your Copyrighted Works
[Legal:Copyright] If you’ve taken the necessary steps to register your copyrighted works, you inevitably will have an opportunity to royalties off of them. To take advantage of the opportunity, you will need to be familiar with copyright license agreements.
- Travel Cambodia - Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat, Sihanoukville and Roads From Hell
[Travel-and-Leisure:Vacation-Rentals] Cambodia is a land on the mend. From 1977 through 1980, the Khmer Rouge ruled the country, fanatics bent on genocide. Millions were killed and the period was put to film in the movie, “The Killing Fields.” Fortunately, those days are over and the country is becoming a tourist destination.
- Non-Compete Agreements In Action - Microsoft v. Google
[Legal] Non-Compete Agreements are controversial documents that restrict a person’s right to work with competitors of a former employer. The effectiveness of one such non-compete agreement is on display in a recent lawsuit filed by Microsoft against Google.
- Greenland - The Misunderstood Land of Intrigue
[Travel-and-Leisure] Say “Greenland” and a traveler immediately thinks of a giant slab of ice. With attractions such as Disko Bay, Motzfeldt So Lake, and the hikes around Qaqortoq, Greenland is great for travelers looking for something off the beaten path.
- Argentina Travel - Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata, Iguazu Falls, Tierra del Fuego, and Patagonia
[Travel-and-Leisure] Argentina is on the way back from the economic crisis of the last few years. If you are looking for a travel destination, Argentina is amazing and cheap.
- John Roberts - Supreme Court Nominee
[News-and-Society:Politics] President Bush’s selection of the Hon. John Roberts is an interesting choice. The betting, and there had been betting, was on a minority or female candidate. Instead, President Bush swings for the fences with a middle-aged, white male. Let the ugliness begin.
- Congress Considers National Data Privacy Law
[News-and-Society:Politics] Legislation was introduced into Congress this week that would establish a national data privacy law. The bill would require businesses to disclose to consumers any breaches that result in the exposure of personal information.
- Siberia, Russia Part 6 - When Stairs Attack in the Khabarovsk Train Station
[Travel-and-Leisure] In this continuing series, we cover my move from San Diego to Chita, Siberia to be a professor at Chita State Technical University. We pick up the story going to the train station in Khabarovsk to catch the Trans-Siberian Railroad.
- Investment Property - Leveraging Rental Property Equity
[Real-Estate] Owning investment property is a tremendous wealth building strategy. Thousands upon thousands of individuals have amassed great wealth by investing in rental properties. Unfortunately, few investment property owners learn how to leverage equity in a way that maximizes tax deductions while creating and locking in equity gains.
- New Law Changes Highway Use Tax Rules: Installment Payment Option Eliminated
[Automotive] The IRS is reminding truckers and other owners of heavy highway vehicles that the installment option for paying the federal highway use tax will no longer be available. This change was included in the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 and applies to filers of Form 2290, Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax Return.
- Getting A Second Extension to File 2004 Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Millions of people file tax return extensions every year. The tax filing deadlines can rush up on your quickly. Fortunately, filing an extension isn’t particularly difficult. For individuals, there are two available extensions.
- San Diego Beach Hikes - Cardiff to Carlsbad
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] San Diego offers a bevy of interesting hikes. With the average home price being around $500,000, they better be interesting!
- Need a Copy of Your Tax Return Information?
[Finance:Taxes] Taxpayers have two easy and convenient options for getting copies of their federal tax return information — tax return transcripts and tax account transcripts — by phone or by mail.
- Marriage or Divorce - Check Your Social Security Number
[Finance:Taxes] Newlyweds and the recently divorced should make sure that names on their tax returns match those registered with the Social Security Administration (SSA). A mismatch between a name on the tax return and a Social Security number (SSN) could unexpectedly increase a tax bill or reduce the size of any refund.
- Roth IRA Contributions - IRS Rules
[Investing:IRA-401k] Confused about whether you can contribute to a Roth IRA? Try using these simple rules:
- Early Distributions From Retirement Plans
[Home-and-Family:Retirement] An early distribution from an Individual Retirement Arrangement IRA) or a qualified retirement plan need not be a "taxing" experience. Fortunately, there are exceptions to early distributions.
- Gambling Income and Expenses - Tax Requirements
[Finance:Taxes] Hit a big one? With more and more gambling establishments, keep in mind the IRS requires people to report all gambling winnings as income on their tax return.
- Military Reservists, Enlistees May Get Deferral of Back Taxes
[Finance:Taxes] Reservists called to active duty and enlistees in the armed forces may qualify for a deferral of taxes owed if they can show that their ability to pay taxes was affected by their military service.
- Your IRS Tax Appeal Rights
[Finance:Taxes] Are you in the middle of a disagreement with the IRS? One of the guaranteed rights for all taxpayers is the right to appeal. If you disagree with the IRS about the amount of your tax liability or about proposed collection actions, you have the right to ask the IRS Appeals Office to review your case.
- IRS Obtains More Than 100 Injunctions Against Tax Scheme Promoters
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS has obtained civil injunctions against more than 100 promoters of illegal tax avoidance schemes and fraudulent return preparers in an ongoing crackdown that began in 2001. Many of the injunctions, obtained in cooperation with the Department of Justice, also order the promoters to turn over client lists and to cease preparing federal income tax returns for others.
- IRS Certifies 2006 Toyota Hybrid for Clean Fuel Deduction
[Finance:Taxes] The Internal Revenue Service has certified the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid as being eligible for the clean-burning fuel deduction. This certification means that taxpayers who purchase one of these hybrid vehicles new during calendar year 2005 may claim a tax deduction of up to $2000.
- FTC Names Dirty Dozen Email Scams
[Legal] The Federal Trade Commission is responsible for issuing and enforcing rules for consumer issues on the Internet. As part of this process, the FTC has published a list of the 12 scams you are most likely to receive as email.
- Prompt Delivery Rules - Internet Product Sales
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Ecommerce] The Internet is the fastest growing source of mail order sales. The explosive growth in the goods and services sold online has in the past taken many online sellers by surprise: demand has outpaced supply, depleting inventories and disappointing customers. This can lead to serious problems with the FTC.
- Marketing on the Internet: Legal Rules of the Road
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Internet-Marketing] The Internet is connecting advertisers and marketers to customers from Boston to Bali. If you're thinking about advertising on the Internet, remember that many of the same rules that apply to other forms of advertising apply to electronic marketing.
- Free and Low Cost PC Offers - The Catch
[Home-and-Family] You've probably seen the ads for "low cost" PC's - "PC's for $199" - or even "free" computers. If you're in the market for a personal computer, you should know "free" doesn't always mean free. Very often, certain conditions and restrictions found in the fine print of advertisements for "free" or "low cost" PC's can turn a so-called deal into an expensive purchase.
- Business Name - How To Pick One From A Legal Perspective
[Legal] A business name can be a huge factor in the ultimate success or failure of the entity. Unfortunately, many people fail to give a lot of thought to it prior to moving forward. There are many factors to consider including something memorable, a name related to your area of work and, potentially, the availability of the domain name.
- Supreme Court Decides Against Grokster In File Sharing Decision
[Legal] The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of MGM and against Grokster. Is this the end of file sharing? No.
- S Corporation - What Is It?
[Business:Small-Business] For many small businesses, the “S” corporation is the business entity of choice. The “S” in S corporation refers to a tax designation. All corporations are created the same way under state law. A small business must then chose a tax status, to wit, “C”, “S” or non-profit. Important issues concerning S corporations are covered in this article.
- 40 Million Credit Card Numbers Stolen - CardSystem Solutions Incompetence
[News-and-Society] CardSystems Solutions moronic security efforts have resulted in the potential theft of information for 40 million credit cards. Hackers were able to install a rogue program, probably a Trojan, in the CardSystems security network. This program captured credit card information including the cardholder’s name, account number and verification code.
- California Financial Privacy Law Partially Invalidated
[Legal] The 9th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals has dealt a blow to privacy advocates by invalidating a California privacy law. In litigation brought by the American Bankers Association and others, the appellate court overruled the finding of a trial judge that the California law could stand. Instead, the appellate justices found the law to be pre-empted in part by the federal 2003 Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act.
- Corporation - What Is It?
[Business] Simply put, a corporation is a form of business entity. You probably already know this, so this article delves into a few of the particulars..
- California Businesses Incorporating In Nevada
[Business] California is a notoriously bad state to do business in. Regulations, worker’s compensation and tax issues overwhelm companies. Seeking relief, many incorporate in Nevada. Unless done carefully, this decision can lead to disaster
- FTC Requires Companies To Destroy Consumer Records
[Legal] On June 1, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission issued new regulations requiring companies to destroy certain consumer records. The specific rule requires consumer information such as credit reports to be physically destroyed after it is used.
- Donating Cars To Charity - New Tax Rules
[Finance:Taxes] On June 3, 2005, the IRS released guidance on charitable deductions for donated vehicles. The American Jobs Creation Act (AJCA) radically changed the amount of the deduction taxpayers can claim for their donated car.
- A Lawyers Favorite Lawyer Jokes
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humor] Everyone loves lawyer jokes, even this lawyer.
- Correspondence From The IRS - Yikes!
[Finance:Taxes] It’s a moment every person dreads. You pick up the mail and there is an envelope from the IRS. It’s not a refund check. What do you do?
- Identity Theft - Impacting Your Taxes?
[Legal:Identity-Theft] If your identity is stolen, your finances can quickly become a nightmare. A less obvious problem is the effect identity theft can have on your taxes.
- Highlights of IRS List of 2005 Tax Scams
[Finance:Taxes] Each year, the IRS lists various scams taxpayers get caught up in. The top 2005 scams include several that manipulate laws governing charitable groups, abuse credit counseling services or rely on refuted arguments to claim tax exemptions. The agency is warning taxpayers about the growth of identity theft schemes with some particularly bold thieves even pretending to be IRS agents.
- Section 179 - Tax Relief From Depreciation Rules
[Finance:Taxes-Relief] "Depreciation." For business owners, this word is the one most likely to inspire headaches and fits of cussing. The expanded provisions of Section 179 are just the medicine you need to cure the depreciation blues.
- Employment Taxes - What Are They?
[Finance:Taxes] Small business owners often start and run their businesses by themselves. As the business grows, employees are eventually hired to help with the increased work. Of course, the business owner then has to figure out employment taxes.
- Student Travel - Backpacking In Europe
[Travel-and-Leisure:Outdoors] For the fortunate few, life isn’t complete without a backpacking trip through Europe. This right of passage is believed to further the maturation process of college students, according to sociologists. Of course, others have opined that copious amounts of alcohol, sun and Amsterdam have something to do with it. Regardless of your purpose, you still have to figure out what to take.
- Siberia, Russia Part 5 - Khabarovsk and a Little Russian
[Travel-and-Leisure] In this continuing series, we cover my move from San Diego to Chita, Siberia to be a professor at Chita State Technical University. We pick up the story outside the airport in Khabarovsk, Russia.
- Siberia, Russia Part 4 - Airport Follies and a Stern Lecture
[Travel-and-Leisure] In this continuing series, we cover my decision to move from San Diego to Chita, Siberia to be a professor at Chita State Technical University. We pick up the story aboard the flight from Anchorage to Khabarovsk, Russia.
- Cambodian Taxi Chaos - a Leaf, a Radiator and a MacGyver Moment
[Travel-and-Leisure] The roads in Cambodia are vicious, angry slabs of asphalt filled with potholes that would qualify as valleys in some countries. Fortunately, I had it made traveling from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. Or so I thought.
- Khmer Rouge Prison 21 - The Chilling High School In Phnom Pehn, Cambodia
[Travel-and-Leisure] Most travel stories are of the happy-go-lucky variety. Every once in a while, however, one visits a place that evidences the vicious, dark side of mankind. Khmer Rouge Prison 21, known as Tuol Seng, is one such place. It is a stark reminder of the cruelties humanity can visit upon itself.
- Colorado Fly Fishing - Bait Huckin' vs. Fly Fishin'
[Recreation-and-Sports:Fishing] It was one of those fishing trips. You know, everyone catches fish but you, you loose six or eight of your most expensive streamers, it rains buckets, and you sink the boat. That’s right; I got skunked at Steamboat Lake over Memorial weekend.
- Rental Property Tax Deductions
[Finance:Taxes-Property] Own residential rental properties? This article discusses how income from those properties impacts your taxes.
- Truly Bizarre Taxes: The Tax on Illegal Drugs
[Finance:Taxes] One can never underestimate the enthusiasm that politicians have for trying to hunt up tax revenues. The creativity of some politicians can lead to bizarre taxes and unfortunate results.
- 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Certified For Clean-Fuel Deduction
[Finance:Taxes] If you are environmentally conscious and purchase a 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid vehicle that combines a gasoline-powered engine with alternative power methods, you are in line for a nice tax deduction.
- Tax Deduction for Alimony Payments? - Yes!
[Finance:Taxes] Over 50% of marriages end in divorce in the United States. Many divorce decrees include provisions for the payment of alimony. The IRS takes the position that such payments constitute a form of income and create an alimony tax deduction for the person making payments.
- IRS Reports Tax Gap of $300 Billion
[Finance:Taxes] The IRS is reporting that the difference between what U.S. taxpayers owe and actually pay on time totals more than $300 billion a year. Studying over 46,000 tax returns for individuals revealed the tax gap. These results indicate a failure of 15 to 16 percent of individual tax payers to fully pay their taxes. IRS enforcement activities recovered roughly $55 billion of that total gap, leaving a net tax gap of $257 billion to $298 billion.
- Small Business Tax Credit - Americans With Disabilities Act
[Finance:Taxes] Many small businesses complain when confronted with the expense of complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Most do not realize that there are a number of tax incentives available to offset the costs. Importantly, one tax incentive comes in the form of a tax credit, which is far more valuable than a tax deduction when it comes to creating tax savings.
- Small Business Tax Deduction - Write-Off Bad Debts
[Finance:Taxes] Practically every small business has receivables that it cannot obtain from clients. If your small business doesn't have any such receivables, consider yourself lucky. For those small businesses that suffer from uncollected receivables, solace can be taken from the fact you can claim a tax deduction.
- Deducting Points On Home Refinances
[Finance:Taxes] It is no secret that millions of homeowners have been refinancing mortgages to take advantage of low interest rates. If you refinanced your home, you may have paid "points" on your new mortgage. The good news is that you can claim a deduction for these points as well as a deduction if you paid points on your previous mortgage.
- How Likely Are You To Be Audited?
[Finance:Taxes] There are many things in life that scare people, but receiving notice of a tax audit is a universal fear. Regardless of the conservative or aggressive nature of your tax return, nobody looks forward to the possibility of an audit. So, what are your chances of being audited?
- Understanding Marketing Tax Deductions
[Finance:Taxes] Marketing is a necessary expense in running practically any business and the IRS acknowledges as much. You may run advertisements on or in the Internet, radio, television, magazines, newspapers and other media to sell your products or services. You should be deducting all of the associated costs on your tax returns.
- Small Business Tax Issues for Self-Employed Individuals
[Finance:Taxes] The United States is a nation of entrepreneurs. There are literally tens of millions of self-employed individuals that enjoy pursuing their dream business. Of course, few of you enjoy the paperwork and confusing tax issues that arise from owning your own business.
- Are You Overpaying Taxes If You Use Tax Preparation Software?
[Finance:Taxes-Tools] Preparing your business taxes can be a real pain in the posterior. The process takes time, will power and a good amount of reading. Of course, you can use a tax professional, but they are expensive, have poor "bed side manners" and often fail to proactively suggest methods for lowering your taxes.
- Corporations Failing To Claim AMT Exemption Overpay Taxes By $11,000
[Finance:Taxes] Does your incorporated business pay alternative minimum tax [“AMT]? If so, there is a 93% chance you have been overpaying your taxes by an average of $11,000 a year according to the Treasury Inspector General.
- Internet Partnerships - Don't Throw Away Your Business
[Legal] Many Internet businesses find it profitable to combine their product or services with other e-commerce companies. In doing so, they often fail to realize that they are being exposed to liability under general partnership laws.
- California Limited Liability Company - An Overview
[Legal:Corporations-LLC] Limited liability companies (“LLC”) are a fairly popular business entity choice for small businesses. The popularity stems from the fact that the entity provides the asset protection of a corporation, but the relative tax simplicity of a partnership.
- Why You Need A Business Entity
[Legal] When starting or expanding a business, many owners wonder if they should form a business entity and, if so, which one they should use. There is a wide variety of information and "pitches" being made on the Internet regarding the benefits of certain entities versus others. When you cut through the flak, however, the primary reason for forming a business entity is to create protection from personal liability arising from your business activities.
- Siberia, Russia Part 3 - Communist Planes and Defining "Fluent"
[Travel-and-Leisure] In the first two parts of this series, we covered my decision to move from San Diego to Chita, Siberia to be a professor at Chita State Technical University. We pick up the story aboard the flight from Anchorage to Khabarovsk, Russia.
- Siberia, Russia Part 2 - Where Are We and What Day Is It?
[Travel-and-Leisure] Standing in the airport in San Diego, I began to wonder exactly how long it was going to take to get to the city of Chita in Siberia. The combination of a vodka hangover, three flights, one train ride and a jump over the international date line didn’t help. At first glance, it looked like a total of two days, which wasn’t bad for going to the other side of the earth.
- Critical Business Procedure - Keep All Email Communications
[Business] Businesses routinely maintain copies of correspondence and memos. Far to often, however, they do not extend this practice to email correspondence. Email correspondence is no different then your normal paperwork. You must keep copies of all of it to protect your business in any litigation.
- National ID Card? Congress Approves Electronic ID Card
[News-and-Society] Are we moving towards an Orwellian 1984 scenario in the United States? Are we still truly the land of the free? Many are predicting severe limitations to our way of life in light of the impending requirement of a national ID card.
- Database Hacks - Are Banks Required To Notify You?
[Legal] Ever wonder if banks are required to tell customers when
their systems are hacked? You may be shocked to learn that
they are not.
- Hackers Given Access to IRS Computers?
[News-and-Society] The Treasury Department inspector general has reported a
distinct weakness in the security surrounding the IRS computer
systems. Unlike the problems found with other security
systems, this one is human.
- Tax Reduction Tips
[Finance:Taxes] In the rush to get tax returns prepared and filed by April
15th, many overpay their taxes. Following are a few tax
reduction tips that could help you save a bundle.
- Do You Own Your Web Site Design?
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Web-Design] Your web site has been up for a few months and you are making money hand over foot. While surfing sites one evening, you are shocked to find a competitor using your design. You find out your desig...
- Business Tax Deductions
[Finance:Taxes] As we enter mid-March, taxpayers begin to become very
interested in deductions. Following are a few that
you may be entitled to claim.
- Domain Name Trademarks
[Legal:Cyber-Law] As your Internet business grows, the value of your domain name
increases. The issue of a domain name trademark should move to
the top of your list.
- Anti-Phishing Bill Introduced To Congress
[Legal] Sen. Partick J. Leahy has introduced the Anti-Phishing Act
of 2005 to Congress for consideration. The Act would allow
federal prosecutors to seek fines of up to $250,000 and
prison sentences of up to five years against individuals
convicted for promoting phishing scams.
- Protect Your Business With Non-Disclosure Agreements
[Legal] Every business should protect proprietary information when
dealing with independent contractors, vendors and other
businesses. The best way to do this is to use a
non-disclosure agreement, often referred to as an “NDA.”
- Tax Jokes and Quotes
[Finance:Taxes] A collection of tax jokes and quotes to reduce the pain of tax season.
- The Secret To Protecting Your Business Assets
[Legal] Forming a corporation or LLC protects your personal assets from the threat of lawsuits. How can you protect the assets actually owned by your business? This article discusses one incorporation strategy.
- Resolve Disputes With Your Partners Before They Happen
[Legal] Avoid disputes with your partners by coming to an agreement on how they will be handled before they occur.
- Why Even A Simple Contract Can Save Your Bacon
[Legal] Many small businesses enter deals without using written contracts. They quickly become frustrated if the deal falls apart and they realize they have few legal options. Learn how even a simple contract can act like insurance for your business deals.
- How to Check the Status of Your Tax Refund Online
[Finance:Taxes] So, you were pleasantly surprised to learn that you are getting a refund on your taxes. Congratulations! The question for most taxpayers expecting a return is, "Where is my refund?"
- How To Get An Extension To File Your Business Tax Returns
[Finance:Taxes] Tax return filing dates are approaching for businesses. Find out how to obtain automatic extensions from the IRS to file your taxes.
- Tax Records - What You Should Keep And For How Long
[Finance:Taxes] Many taxpayers are confused about what tax records they should keep and for how long. This article provides the answers and highlights a few unique situations.
- Create Tax Savings And Transfer Wealth To Your Child With A Roth IRA
[Investing:IRA-401k] Give your child the benefit of time in setting up their nest egg. By using a Roth IRA, you can leverage a small amount of your wealth through 40 years of investing. Since a Roth IRA is the investment vehicle, you child will reap tax-free distributions.
- Deadlines Approaching For Filing 1099s For Independent Contractors
[Finance:Taxes] If you paid at least $600 to a person for services rendered to your business, you must issue and file a 1099-MISC form. Deadlines for issuing 1099s are approaching as are the filing dates with the IRS. Learn if you need to file 1099s, when you must file and where to get the forms.
- How To Avoid Scam Artist When Donating To Tsunami Relief Efforts
[News-and-Society] Avoid scam artists when making tsunami relief donations. Quick and easy methods to verify the legitimacy of charitable organizations.
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