Jumat, 06 Juni 2008

Is Online Gambling Legal?

The increasing popularity of online gambling has created a storm in the world of gaming and betting. However, the biggest ongoing debate these days is bout the legal status of online gambling. As you hear different things from different sources, it becomes difficult to decide what is, in fact, the truth. And knowing the truth of this matter is of supreme importance to anyone who enjoys either the thrill of casino like games of chance, or the high of sports betting. After all, you don't want to win big, and have your winnings confiscated by the government as illegal, or worse, end up being prosecuted for having a little harmless fun!

So what is the truth after all? The fact is, unfortunately, that it's not that simple. One cannot give you a blanket statement saying its either legal or illegal. Different states of the union have different laws regarding online gambling even at the best gambling sites. In addition, laws regarding betting or playing at the best gambling sites differ from country to country. So, depending on where you are physically located, and where your best gambling site is hosted, the legal status of your bet may vary. In the United States for example, the federal wire ct prohibits any kind of electronic transmission of information for sports betting, especially over the phone, the Internet, or any other form of telecommunication. However, according to a 2002 ruling of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, The Federal Wire Act does not apply the same embargo on online gambling involving casino games and other such games of chance.

However, as with most things, various states have different laws that place prohibitions on gambling of any kind on the Internet. In addition, it is illegal to own even one of the best gambling sites in the US without the proper and appropriate licensing. As a rule, online gaming licenses are not currently being issued by any of the states.

The concerns are twofold, problem gambling, and money laundering. The government is concerned that the easy nature of access to best gambling sites online makes it easier for people to get addicted, leading to an increase in problem gambling. In addition, since the Internet is a place of anonymity, and money transfers are anonymous and protected by encryption, it is not only difficult, but close to impossible to trace people engaging in these games and transactions to facilitate online money laundering. As a result, a number of the best gambling sites have had to suspend real money gambling for their US customers. Since 2005 however, states like North Dakota have tried to legalize some online games such as poker, and are ready to regulate the operators of those games in their home states. The 2007introduction of the Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act has helped to provide a possibility for the licensing of the best Internet gambling sites. The same year, the Skill Game Protection Act was introdu
ced, to legalize Internet and casino games that involve skill such as poker or chess.

As for the rest of the world, it is legal for Australian residents to play online poker or casino games at the best gambling sites, and even bet on sports online. In many countries of the European union and the Caribbean too, a number of the games involved in online gambling are legal.

This is Why You Must Develop a Powerful Uppercut in Your Boxing Training Program

The uppercut is an amazing punch that can knock you out before you knew what hit you. When landed solid, this punch changes fights fast. It amazes me though on how many fighters and trainers neglect this powerful punch.

Just look at vintage footage of Iron Mike Tyson's fights on how he would rip those viscous uppercuts, and leave his opponents unconscious. Iron Mike Tyson was famous for that and it was one of his favorite weapons in his heavy punching arsenal. Remember Evander Holyfield vs. Bert Cooper? Evander Holyfiled's uppercut couldn't miss that night and it was truly damaging blow to Bert Cooper. That's what basically one that fight for Evander Holyfield when Bert Cooper was hanging tough and having his own moments with his uppercut.

Great fighters know what this punch can do, and what it can add to their offense. This is why great fighters hone it relentlessly in their training and work it wisely in their fights. You must learn from them and take note of their great success with it. Again, Why it's so underused by many fighters, I have no idea.

The key to throwing the punch is dropping down quickly with your head looking up and driving up with the leg's while not over flexing your spine. The uppercut is far from an arm punch as so many fighters today throw it that way.. When you drop down and rip up with it you're throwing it right. You use some trunk rotation and a quick bend when throwing the punch too. Yes you use your arms to throw it, but more so at the finish of it. That's where the ripping part comes in, you think of ripping into your opponent for more punching power.

If you get lazy and sloppy with the uppercut it can leave you open for a good counter punch. The counter punch thrown is often a hook that can knock you out before you knew what hit you. It would be wise for boxers to hone this punch in their training while keeping in mind eliminating the chance for any counter punches. You can perfect this scenario in good sparring sessions. Honing it in good sparring will leave you feeling confident and fully prepared to use it in your fights. You want your sparring partner to give you different looks so he can make you work for openings. With good timing you can work the uppercut of a good double jab and follow it up after a right hand, left hook. The upper cut is not just a punch to land on the inside.

You must work on doubling the uppercut so if your opponent blocks the punch you will have a better chance of scoring with it as he won't anticipate another follow up shot coming.

Another great time to perfect the upper cut is in your shadow boxing. Don't just wait for sparring. If you had problems landing it or throwing it in a previous sparring session this is a less threatening chance and time for you to perfect the upper cut. Just imagine the scenarios you had with it in sparring and role play with it in shadow boxing. I guarantee you that your success rate with it in sparring will then go way up.

Do this then watch how a fast and powerful well thrown uppercut ends fights for you quickly and easily. It takes lots of practice though. If you are willing to put i hard and consistent practice then you will enjoy this very underused weapon wondering why more fighters don't perfect it but at the same time being very glad that they don't.

Learn How to Do Magic Tricks: Tips for Parents and Kids

In my magic courses and magic shows, I'm often asked how parents can foster their child's interest in magic.

Below are a few important steps to help to your kids learn how to do magic tricks and explore the Art of Magic.

1.Encourage your children to learn how to do magic tricks through the local library.

You don't need to buy the latest magic set or stacks of DVDs on sleight of hand to learn how to do magic. Libraries have a ton of resources on magic, magic history, juggling, and magic specifically for kids. It doesn't hurt that all this knowledge is FREE! A good beginner’s book in magic will provide the initial foundation for your child to learn several magic tricks and help assess their interest in learning more about the Art of Magic.

2. Remind them to practice both the "moves" and the "story" when learning the magic trick. Magicians refer to their "story" as patter. Patter is the words used in the presentation of the magic trick. Kids (and adults) new to magic often focus purely on the "moves" rather than the presentation. Reminding the performer to focus on the story as well as the moves will only help your son or daughter become more proficient in their performance. Plus their magic trick will be more entertaining!

If you want to see some magic trick videos performances from a variety of magicians ranging from Harry Houdini, Criss Angel, David Blaine, and others, you can visit our Magic Video section. We don't tell the secret, but you'll get a good idea of what magic should look like.

3. Visit your local magic shop

The library has a lot of resources, but a magic shop is often the defacto hot spot for any budding performer. Reputable magic shops are staffed with experienced prestidigitators that can help your child learn how to do magic. Watch out for any magic dealer who will sell an expensive magic prop without considering the skill of the performer. When purchasing magic, my recommendation is to invest in books before DVDs. Books have a lot of material that can be referred to time and time again. DVDs are good too however, the latest trend in magic is to release one trick per DVD. You want to ensure you get the most magic for your investment. The DVD will also show how the effect will be presented as well as the "secret". Both books and DVDs are useful learning tools. I prefer these to the standard tricks you find in the glass booths...but those are fun too! Magic shops will sometime host magic nights where local magicians get together and have a "jam session" demonstrating their latest magical pursuit.

You can also visit Kapoof's Learn Free Magic Tricks library to learn over 100 different magic tricks for free! We feature several tutorials on coin tricks, card tricks, rope tricks, and yes even Street Magic tricks!

4. Join a local magic assembly, ring, or group.

If you search http://www.magicsam.com or http://www.magician.org, you can find a local Assembly or Ring comprised of local magicians in your metropolitan area. Magic meetings are a fun place to network with other hobbyists, professionals, and newbies interested in the Art of Magic. Most magic organizations are welcoming of new members and are willing to share the secrets of their trade. However, the student must be willing to learn and practice rather than expect all the secrets to be revealed.

5. Attend a magic convention

Magic conventions are another excellent way to meet other magicians, see different magic acts, meet different magic vendors, and purchase new magic. Most conventions are held in a hotel where magicians provide lectures, advice, perform parlor sized shows, and even perform full scale theater shows. Every night magicians gather in the lobby and session with each other. It is another easy way to make new friends and learn a few new tricks of the trade.

I hope you found these tips helpful in your child’s pursuit of learning how to do magic. Please visit www.kapoof.com for more information on how to do magic tricks and learn more about the Art of Magic!

How to Choose Perfect Corporate Gifts Every Time

While a lot of the formalities have changed, corporate gift giving is still essential. Giving gifts in a corporate setting is as much as a tradition as it is an effort to keep good relations with employees, clients, and partners.

So while it is essential, there are also millions of ideas floating around as to what to give. There are so many things to consider. There's not just the cost and the appropriate way to give a corporate gift, but also considering whom you are giving items to. You might have to consider if there is a corporate gift policy, what those rules are, and whom you might not be able to give gifts to.

With so much to consider, it all comes down to two things. The first step would be to understand the receiver of your gift. The next is to gather up ideas of what gifts to give to which person.

Understanding The Receiver Of A Corporate Gift

When you consider giving corporate gifts, you should always consider who the receiver is.

Bosses - Your boss has been looking out for you, and now it's time to show your appreciation. Bosses are particularly difficult to shop for as it's important not to appear to be bribing them.

Clients - There are probably several levels of clients you might consider giving gifts to. Most likely you'll want to give your top clients something every once in a while, to show your appreciation for their continued business.

Employees - Your underlings might occasionally need a boost in confidence, need a reward for a job well done, or perhaps for a holiday. Even a small gift on occasion goes a long way.

Business Partners - They've worked with you on several occasions, given you discounts on services or products you might have needed at one point, and continue to work with you. Sometimes you just want to send them a reminder that you thank them for their continued support.

Within each category, there might be subcategories of which you give gifts to as well. With clients for ezample you'll give a more expensive gift to your top clients, and maybe some small token to all of your other clients. With the various levels, it is a good idea to keep in mind what corporate gifts you might give to each one. This way, you know exactly where to go or what to look for when you shop for a gift.

Ideas For Corporate Gifts

So what sort of corporate gifts can you give to clients or bosses? Here's a few ideas for each type of the most popular corporate gifts, which recipients will probably appreciate the gift, and alternative ideas. You can probably find variations or combinations of such gifts as well.

Cards, Calendars, Paper Gifts - These are probably the least expensive and most widely given gifts people give. They make up half of the gifts given out every year. Handy little calendars are nice and cards show you care. They are less expensive, can be bought in bulk and kept in stock for surprise events. Imagine sending a nice Get Well card to a sick employee.

Gift Cards -You could give a paper card to everyone on your list, and toss in gift cards with various amounts, making gift giving at any time very easy to keep up with. If you want to make things a little more personal, write a note in your own handwriting sharing your appreciation. The amount of gift cards being given out is on the rise and for good reason.

Branded, Engraved - This can be a various assortment of goodies that can be branded with your company logo, and given to virtually anyone. These gifts can be similar to the paper gifts, but have more bulk to them. Like envelope openers, office supply kits, mouse pads, or even expensive gifts like watches or necklaces.

Food and Fruit Baskets - Gift baskets and fruit baskets are also extremely popular. You'll probably reserve these for more formal occasions. Gift baskets can be relatively inexpensive but certainly not when compared to a letter opener. These would generally be for important events or people.

If you are giving wine or a wine gift basket, it is better to ask permission or get details regarding whether the person actually drinks (or might drink too much and not want temptation). If you think about it throughout the year, ask about their preferences and you can write down ideas. This comes in handy when picking out food gifts as well.

Charity Donations - This has been very popular as a corporate gift for many, many years. People love feeling they have contributed to something. You can even send out paper cards, with a return card asking the individual which charities they would like to donate to, so they can pick their favorite causes. It's a gift you both give together.

Flowers or Plants - Plants are little more traditional, and also a very fun gift. It makes for an excellent welcome gift for new employees, or as a "Get Well" gift. Some of the more exotic plants can stand out to new clients or business partners. It's a warm, friendly way to share your appreciation.

And of course you can mix and match a few of these gifts. You can set up the branded gifts ahead of time, as well as keeping cards and gift certificates. When you keep them in stock, you'll be ready for whatever event comes up. For those you can better prepare for, like Christmas or special holidays, or for new employees, etc., you can look at the gift baskets, charity donations, and other items. The secret to giving the perfect gift, though, it so make in personal and show that you really, truly appreciate the people that you work with.

The Best Saltwater Fishing Flies are a Mouse Click Away

Flies sure have come a long way. Today there are dozens of specialized vices and tools as well as hundreds of supply outlets. And of course you can buy ready made fresh or saltwater fishing flies from anywhere in the world, with the click of a button. But one thing remains the same; the best flies are hand tied by people who tie from experience. And that's what this article is about. We're going to take a look at some of the best flies, for any fishing conditions and locals, hand tied by the true masters.

Let's do this by region. If you are planning a fishing getaway this will give you time to get the best flies you need for where you want to go. And of course, it never hurts to try a new fly at you favorite local spot. You never know...

Starting in the northeast I bring your attention to Joe "Flycatcher" O'Clair. If the name sounds familiar, you might have heard it mentioned by fly tying legend and editor of Fly Tier Magazine, David Klausmeyer. David featured Joe as one of the "top 13 US fly tiers" in his fly tying hardcover classic; "Striped Bass Flies: Patterns of the Pros."

A saltwater fly tying innovator, Joe has designed some great flies for fishing conditions common to many coastal anglers. Located on Cape Cod, he caters to the need for distance casting by beach bound anglers and saltwater flies that are visible, but natural looking, in the cloudy Atlantic waters of New England. Joe's "Cone Head Deceivers" make the distance and sink rapidly. They do the trick nicely, working especially well on Striped Bass and Bluefish. http://www.FlycatcherFlies.com

If you're looking for saltwater flies that work like magic from the coast of Nova Scotia down to the outer banks of Carolina, FlycatcherFlies.com should be your first stop.

Now we head down south to St. Petersburg, Florida and fly tying great Danny Sauvageau, of DansCustomFlies.com.

We visit with Dan for one of his latest creations, "Dan's Weedless Shrimp" http://members.ij.net/danscustomflys/WeedlessShrimpPage.html. This little beauty is virtually snag proof and great for Seatrout, Snook, Bonefish, and just about anything else that will eat shrimp.

Dan has been designing and selling his award winning flies for over a decade. Next time you find yourself in his neck of the woods, a visit to his online store is a must.

Now let's head over to the Pacific Northwest and http://www.adiposflytying.com. If you're looking for great Salmon, Steelhead or Trout flies, look no further. The pros at Adipos got their experience fishing the best that British Columbia, Alaska, Washington, and Oregon have to offer.

These are rugged flies for hearty fish that are as at home in the Washington as they are west coastal Canada.

We finish our online pursuit of great saltwater fishing flies in Southern California with a visit to Gary Bulla of http://www.garybulla.com. Gary is one of the foremost experts in designing flies that work especially well for kayakers and surf casters going after Yellowfin Tuna and Roosterfish.

These are just a few of the great saltwater fly tiers out there. Most of them and countless others sell out of local bait and tackle shops as well so look around the next time you take a last minute fishing trip. There's bound to be a local legend fly tier that has just the right fly for what you're after.

Keep those lines tight!

Camping at Nascar Races

If you are a fan of the races, you have probably at least entertained the thought of camping out at the race with other anticipating race fans. There is something about the vibe when camping at a NASCAR race that can't be beat, especially for those die hard fans out there that are truly thrilled b y it all. Getting NASCAR tickets is one thing, but actually having the opportunity to be on the infield as the race is going on is a unique experience in itself, one that no real race fan should have to live without having experienced.

There are different types of camping that can be done at a NASCAR race. Most people have RVs that they like to camp with because they can hook them up and be able to use the water, the facilities, and have electricity in the camper. There are also camping sites for NASCAR races that do not offer hook ups at all, although many of these facilities will make other arrangements for you to dispose of your waste and get clean water. Of course, there is always the option of camping in a tent and that is often the favorite option amongst those who would rather do things simply. Whichever method of camping you choose should not be hard to accommodate.

Why Bother Camping at NASCAR Races?

Many people who travel to NASCAR don't see the point in camping, and the truth is that it is not for everyone. There are many people who make a tradition out of traveling to races like the Coca Cola 600 and the Daytona 500 and camping with a huge group of friends and associates. Then there are people who fly to town and stay in luxury suites; obviously the latter group might not appreciate the experience. There is a camaraderie to be had at camp sites that goes well with the vibrant NASCAR atmosphere.

Camping at NASCAR Is One Big Party

People choose to camp at NASCAR rather than get a room or stay at a bed and breakfast because of the type of experience it offers. It is a great way for a lot of people who are interested in one thing to get together and celebrate it. There is often drinking, cookouts, parties, games, activitiesyou name it, it is done at a NASCAR campout. It is a good place to bring little ones who you want to enjoy the races with you and teach them how to have some good, wholesome fun.

Where to Camp at NASCAR

Depending on what race you are attending and what track you will be at, there are several different places to camp. Some tracks allow camping on the infield only, while some tracks allow camping inside the track and outside it as well. Other places have campsites very close to the track that are designated for camping NASCAR fans as well, so the venue can change accommodations from place to place and race to race. Check with your race in advance so that you can reserve a spot, and let your friends and loved ones know in advance, especially if there is a distance to be traveled to the race itself.

Something to keep in mind about camping out at NASCAR races is that the more popular the race is and the bigger of a deal the event is, the harder it is going to be to get a space. Sometimes, they require that you reserve a camping space a year in advance or more and that is a bit too long for some people. A lot of things can change in a year, but usually the cost of reserving the space is not too much to ask to have the space reserved when demand for it is going to be so high once the event rolls around.

Camping at NASCAR takes organization. It takes planning, and most of all it takes the will to have a good time. There should only be one rule at a NASCAR camping event and it should be that non race fans and party poopers are not allowed!

Sports: Benefits and Therapies

Participation in sports has been on a steady rise for the last two decades. Millions of kids across the world take part in some kind of sport every year and it is common for children to begin participating in sport activities as early as 4-5 years of age.

Advantages of sports: Some of the most proficient advantages of sports include development in:

- Proficiency in various sport skills
- The person's skills that are needed to socialize among the peers and adults. - Confidence and independence of the person
- A sense of success, triumph and achievement
- Leadership qualities and skills
- Agility, endurance, coordination, speed, strength and flexibility
- A sense of cooperation and competition
- Ability to accept responsibility and make decisions
- Imagine, appreciate and express emotions
- Good working habits
- Temperament

By participating in sports, the person gets to:

- Promote physically fit and healthy style of living
- Develop motor and physical skills
- Increase personal development like focusing on the task at hand, being on time, listening to what others say and trying the best possible
- Learn how to win gracefully and lose respectfully
- Experience injury and pain and learn how to work it through
- Learn how to handle criticism and take coaching
- Help others in the team
- Encourage positive attitude in life

Role of Meditation in sports: Sports demand focused attention failing which the person can miss the goal or suffer injury. Sports meditation can help in increasing awareness of other competitors, their body actions and sensations, the external environment, the rhythms of the feet and the bouncing ball. Meditation is also a great way relax and distress, to improve concentration and to maintain a self-observing attitude. It also refreshes the soul and mind of the person and keeps them healthy and rejuvenated.

Sports Massage: It is a kind of body work geared towards sports people. It is used in preventing injuries, preparing the person's body for the athletic activities and maintaining it in the optimal condition. It also helps the sportspersons to recover from injuries and workouts. There are three kinds of sports massage: pre-event, post-event and maintenance massage.

The pre-event massage helps the body to prevent injuries, warm up, stretches and make the muscles of the person flexible. This kind of massage stimulates the blood circulation thus producing a psychological feeling of readiness. A post-event massage helps in reducing any swelling, loosening the tired and stiff muscles, maintaining flexibility, promoting the flow of blood to the muscles and reducing cramping. It also speeds up the recovery process and alleviates the strains, pulls and soreness of the body. A maintenance sports massage has to be done at least one time in a week as it increases the blood flow and nutrients for the muscles, keeps the body tissues loose, reduces scar tissue development and increases flexibility. The main aim of the sports massage is maximizing the athletic performance.

Imaginative Spa Party Ideas

Imaginative spa party ideas are cropping up every where. Everything from wedding groups, a girl's night out to book clubs, corporations and teenagers are excuses to enjoy spa party events.

What theme is good for a spa party?

Well let's look at a just a few:

Plan a spa part
A spa party is an innovative way to celebrate any occasion while getting spa treatments with your friends. The perfect planning of spa party enhances the enjoyment of the host as well as guests. So firstly decide a location to host the party as it can be arranged in the house or a salon. Now a days various salons offer special packages for spa parties. Now after finalizing the party location send the invitations to the friends and crosscheck that how many are attending the spa party. After that decide about the spa treatments you want for the party. And set the scene that reflects a spa-like atmosphere by using light aromatic candles, dim lights and set up a waterscape along with soothing music in the background. This will provide calm ambiance to the guests and they will also enjoy in it.

With the arrangement of pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room the guests can sit back and relax before and after the spa appointments. You can also offer wine and herbal tea to the guests while they are waiting for their appointments. The host can engage the guests in other activities like designing body glitter and giving each other pedicures and manicures. After the spa activities they all can play some traditional games also.

Spa party ideas
A spa party idea for the mom to be is a great gesture. The soon to be mom won't have a lot of time to spoil herself after the birth of her baby, so now is the perfect time to indulge. Little luxuries like bath accessories, nourishing body treatments and healthy spa food will be enjoyed by all. How about a chocolate lovers retreat? A chocolate theme for a spa party is a unique idea. Whether held at a luxury spa or hosted at home, this party will be memorable. Serve chocolates and chocolate covered strawberries, have chocolate scented candles and invitations. Indulge in thick fluffy towels, luxurious lotions and mini-pedicures. Your guest will think you're the chocolates best.

At home spa parties are popular with every type of party. From bridal showers to sweet sixteen parties, women every where love to be pampered. When hosting a home spa party you have many options to lavish your guests with the little luxuries found at day spas. There are countless recipes for spa treatments. Provide scented candles, fresh flowers and soothing music. Hire a professional massage therapist. Do facials and manicures for each other and provide refreshments of chilled beverages for each guest. Bridal showers are perfect spa party ideas. Instead of the usual tea, cake and games at someone's home, the spa shower has gained in popularity. The invitations should relate to the spa themed. Let your guests know what to expect. This theme works well for a day spa or a spa at home party. The bride-to-be will certainly enjoy a little pamper before her big day. Whatever occasion you are celebrating, the spa party ideas are unlimited.

Getting the Right Golf Club Irons

Golf is a great way to get outside for a few hours a day and if you walk the course and carry your bag it is a great way to get some exercise as well. Before you can get out on the course you need to be sure you get the right equipment and one of the most important sets you will buy is your golf club irons.

There are many things to look for when buying golf club irons and it is always a good idea to buy your first set of golf club irons from a store that has a knowledgeable sales representative available. You may even want to consider buying your first set of golf club irons from a PGA certified professional at a pro shop at your local golf course. PGA stands for the Professional Golfer's Association and a certified PGA professional will know exactly how to fit you with your first set of golf club irons and then give you the things you need to know to buy your own golf club irons in the future.

There are two approaches to buying golf club irons. You can buy a complete set or you can buy each club one at a time. The advantage to buying the complete set is that you pay a lot less money for them. The disadvantage is that even though you may like the way a couple of the golf clubs feel the complete set may not be as comfortable for you and you may not get all the clubs you really want.

The advantage to buying clubs one at a time is you get only the clubs you need and you know that every individual club has the right feel for you. The disadvantage is that you will wind up paying a lot more for individual clubs than you would for a set. So figure out if your wallet is more important to you or if you need the best results and then set out to buy your golf club irons.

Knowing the Proper Stance

It is a good idea to take some lessons before buying your first real set of golf club irons. A teacher will show you the proper golf stance and then teach you where the golf club irons fit in that stance. If you don't understand this up front then you could end up purchasing clubs that do not fit into your game and you could find yourself not enjoying the game of golf very much. So take some lessons and make sure you pay attention to the way your teacher tells you to fit the golf club irons into your stance and you will get the maximum results.

After all of that the main thing about buying any golf club is comfort. Make sure the place you are buying your clubs from allows you to swing them to see if they are comfortable or not. Nothing is more important to a golf swing than comfortable clubs.