Initial Planning for a Successful Small Business

Small businesses require planning before getting started-even micro-operations like writing that one person can easily perform. Getting an idea for starting a business is a small first step usually made with excitement. Laying out the key business steps provides a framework that can lead to a profitable operation.

Business ideas and personal values

MISSION VALLEY

If a business idea aligns closely with personal values and traits then it's a good idea to explore the business further. The more complex an operation, like operating a profitable hardware store, the more closely aligned the business should be with personal values.

Say your background is a homeowner and you have experience shopping for great deals on home improvement projects - and you believe strongly in helping others save money - then having a business built around that value could be a wise idea.

Now you need to make a choice if it will be a business related to hands-on construction, a brick-and-mortar store, or an Internet-based model.

This leads to developing a mission statement for a business. A well-written mission statement should be brief yet state the qualities that make the business important. "Finding homeowners in XYZ region the best quality fixtures at the best price possible with unbeatable delivery options" may serve as a mission statement for a regional home improvement company whether in retail or a service-oriented business.

Determining a competitive advantage

Ask the question: "why would any customer purchase the product or service I offer?" Be prepared to give a thorough answer. Offering both price and value is always a winning combination, but it's also a rare combination. Having a low price does not mean that will attract customers since a low price may mean exemplary service is not possible.

Then ask, "who is most likely to purchase what I offer?"

Know the age, buying habits, and the problem to solve or the dreams they might dream.

When the product or service closely matches the needs or wants of the target customer, then the chance for making sales rises dramatically.

Financing and cash flow

Carefully estimate all the equipment costs associated with starting the small business. A website and business cards to equipment costs are part of the expenses. Factor in office space, utilities, and travel costs.

Then estimate how long it will take for paying customers to start making purchases. Determine how much profit is in one purchase.

Prepare contingency plans. Create scenarios where all does not go according to plan. Make sure enough back-up finances exist through loans or cash reserves to ensure continuing operations. Do not rely solely on debt financing.

Taking time to plan a business thoroughly can last for up to several months. Laying the ground work is the best step for building a profitable operation.

Initial Planning for a Successful Small Business

MISSION VALLEY

Geology - The Origin of Rivers

The source of every river is its spring. This is generally found in the higher grounds of a mountain range, which receive relatively large amounts of precipitation. The source of the river may also be sometimes the melting water of a glacier.

When the ground is saturated with water, the water starts running down in tiny rivulets. In glacial regions, water usually collects in lakes and then flows down to the valley. Little channels and rivulets, first formed by the water, ultimately join into one water stream. This stream often uses troughs formed by glaciers or tectonic movements.

MISSION VALLEY

This is how a riverbed is formed. As the speed of the water increases, the water carves deeper into the rock and soil. The riverbed is literally carved out by sand and gravel washed out by water. This process is called abrasion. Valleys with more or less sloping walls form alongside the trough or channel. Even the hardest rocks in the vicinity of the riverbed may be eroded by the constant movement of washed out stones.

The channel of the stream may run straight, but may also be intricate. In general, a river in the valley floor moves in irregular direction. It often divides into various channels. A riverbed may be situated in the middle of a valley meadow or alongside its edge. In addition to straight river flow we have a meandering and braided river flows.

Meander (in Greek, Maiandros, a river which in the antiquity was known by its many curves), is formed by a river channel winding in its valley meadow as a result of deep erosion caused by the river in the rocky bed. Lateral movements are caused by erosion and sediments.

On the outside of the bend, called contact slope, the current is the strongest. This is where erosion occurs. On the other side, so-called slide slope, is where sediments are deposited. With lateral movements and downward movement, the river washes the sediments on its outer bend and forms a sandy and muddy area, creating a natural dyke.

Braided rivers form, when the river stream divides into several channels. They are found in a completely different areas, such as plateaus or regions rich in glacial sand. They are generally found in areas of steep slopes, and in the presence of fast-changing volume of water running through and loose sediments. A typical form represents a wide, shallow riverbed with many fast-shifting sediments of sand. When the river ultimately reaches the ocean or a lake, the speed of its stream decreases. The alluvium, or sediment, brought by the stream of water, creates large deltas, and fills lakes and ocean bays.

An average river is divided into three parts: upper river, middle river, and lower river (or upstream, midstream, and downstream). Upstream, the major force is a deep erosion. Here, the water forms a valley or a gorge with the help of coarse rock. In the middle, erosion and accumulation are approximately balanced. In the lower part, or downstream, where the water flow is gradually slower, is the place where lateral erosion and especially accumulation occur.

Rivers not only take excess water to the sea, they also change the shape of the earth by transporting and accumulating sediments. By the grinding action of the water current, the river may produce deep furrows in the surface of the earth. Fragmented, loose stones are carried by the current and are deposited elsewhere. This process is called accumulation.

The rate of accumulation depends on the slope of the water flow and the volume of water. The faster the current, the higher is the transporting force of the current. The current transports sediments in three ways. First, by traction, that is to say, by dragging or moving them on the bed of the river stream, with occasional saltation. The second one is by suspension, when particles circulating in the turbulent running water are transported by the stream. And third, in the form of solution, when water transports material resulting from the chemical corrosion of rock, together with atmospheric particles, found in rainwater.

During their transport, pieces of rock are ground, they get smaller, sometimes they are dissolved. Some 20 kilometres later, even hard pieces of quartz turn into round pebbles. In the lower part of the river, the traction type of transport disappears, only suspended particles and dissolved materials are still carried on.

In the last few decades, the humans had a major impact on the volume and quality of the material transported by rivers. Material carried by the water is captured by dykes, which decreases the amount of sediments. The increase in the transported material is caused, for example, by clearing of forests, tilling of fields, or by construction activity, and all these are linked to soil erosion. The quality of the accumulated sediments changes due to the industrial removal of waste, use of chemical fertilizers, as well as the increase of dissolved salts. As a consequence of human activity, millions of tons of these materials reach the oceans every year.

Geology - The Origin of Rivers

MISSION VALLEY

Join The Excitement Of Boating With John Boats Lowes

For many of us boating is a fun summertime sport. It is a sport for the family or just a handful of friends out for the day just to beat the heat. But for those who love to spend their day on the waters fishing and relaxing on the calm cool waters, the John Boats Lowes is the one to choose. These boats are not only for fishing but they are designed to get you to those remote hunting spots when water is part of the adventure.

lowes refrigerators

The Lowes boat is not designed like the average family sports type of boat. Instead they are constructed of aluminum or wood with a flat bottom and designed with one to three bench seats. Since these have a higher level of stability compared to the V-hull aluminum boat, they are excellent hunting boats along with great fishing too. Since the hull is almost flat, these boats do very well when riding over the waves instead of cutting through as like the V-hull usually does. This type of water gliding is perfect for the calmer waters that are desired for many hunting and fishing excursions. The average boats have a transom which is perfect for mounting an outboard motor. With the simplicity of a basic boats design, there are many inexpensive options for desired upgrading.

LOWES

The best brands of boats out there today are the John Boats Lowes boats. With several different sizes and styles to choose from, they have the perfect boat for you! These boats are highly crafted and versatile for what ever personal needs desired of your Lowes boat you choose. Manufactured from the highest aluminum quality and constructed in the technological design of a together all in one cohesive unit. This type of unique bonding creates a stronger, quieter boat which will last longer along with superior handling in rough waters as well as calmest surroundings.

With several sizes and models to choose from, every model of John Lowes boats is hand-worked craftsmanship. Only trained professional craftsman specialized in superior construction, fit and finish are employed to put out the finest long lasting quality it is known for. These boats are always guaranteed with a full detailed warranty and are recognized by the National Marine Manufactures Association and been given the Marine Industry CSI Award.

Join The Excitement Of Boating With John Boats Lowes

LOWES

Car Wash Statistics and Economic Considerations in 2007

What is the car wash business and industry sector trend for 2007 and 2008? Well, currently, new car wash construction has slowed a bit, due to water supply issues. Although more high-tech car washes that conserve water are getting popular. Labor supply is another issue slowing construction numbers of new car washes.

lowes store

Also financing due to real estate credit crunch, but I suspect this will change, because car washes are usually a safe credit risk, so more commercial real estate lenders will be looking towards them, this may increase flow and thus add another industry up-tick.

LOWES

There is a bit of competition as well, you must understand that surveys in the car wash industry are now showing that 4 out of 5 car wash owners report 2 or more competitors in their average trading area 10 mile radius for car-washing, 15 miles for oil changing, 12 for detailing shops on the property.

The trend "right now" is totally flat, although no one is talking about it, by the time they do, it will be over and back up again. The number of cars keeps increasing, more customers. Folks with newer cars are 6 times more likely to go to car wash than those with older cars, which makes a lot of sense.

Right now, I see a trend towards more car wash type facilities at places like Home Depot and Wal-Mart to make more money off their parking lot square footage, why wast the space, when the water main runs along the outside of the property, hook in to it, set up your car wash and work off your already available volume. I am not sure I would build a carwash across the street from a Wal-Mart, Sams, Lowes, Home Depot, etc. Think on this when investing in the car wash industry.

Car Wash Statistics and Economic Considerations in 2007

LOWES

Hardpan in the Central Valley - Its Effect on Groundwater Model

Hardpan exists on many type of soil but the challenging one is the red or brownish red hardpan of the San Joaquin soil series. The depth of this hardpan varies within 6 inches to 6 foot of the surface. The hardpan is composed of a mass of soil grains firmly cemented by iron-silica, and is so dense that it could only be broken by blasting. This impervious layer serves as a barrier to water percolating down from the surface.

- The origin of hardpan

MISSION VALLEY

Hardpan can be found in area with semiarid to subhumid Mediterranean climate type, as in the Central Valley (the summer half of the year is hot and dry and the winter half is cool). Average annual precipitation ranges from 5 to 16 inches in the San Joaquin Valley. About 85 percent of the annual precipitation occurs in the six months from November to April. Summers are hot, and winters are moderate (Williamson et. al., 1985). The mean January temperature varies between 45 and 52F. Many days during July, August, and September are having a maximum temperature as high as 110F. The mean annual temperature is 56 to 63F. (Harradine, 1963).

Harradine (1963) hypothesized the genesis of this iron-silica hardpan. During the early spring months chemical and biological activity is favored by a warming soil and the moisture from the late rains. This promotes the release of bases, the solution of silica and sesquioxides, and their general movement downward in the profile. As the soil is rapidly dried during late spring, iron and silica are irreversibly precipitated and a small increment of the less permeable subsoil gradually becomes cemented. Also, subsoil stratification gives a perched moisture condition and thus determines the depth of hardpan formation. In summary, existence of hardpan shows that on this type of soil (loam) and climate (Mediterranean type), the infiltration after precipitation does not percolate further down to aquifer. Because of the high temperature, the infiltrated water would evaporate early on before reaching the groundwater table.

This impervious hardpan, 1 to 6 feet in depth, is a barrier for any infiltration that follows the precipitation on the surface. Thus, in calculating a water balance, no recharge to groundwater from precipitation should be included on areas covered by iron-silica hardpan. Otherwise it would overestimate the recharge. In the City of Fresno, this hardpan of the San Joaquin series prevents the percolation of nitrate to groundwater (Schmidt, 1972).

Hardpan in the Central Valley - Its Effect on Groundwater Model

MISSION VALLEY

Cavemen Were Smarter Than We Thought

Science textbooks usually present cavemen as very primitive people who were barely able to utter a few monosyllables. However, as additional data about stone age men are unearthed, the picture becomes considerably more complex. The more we get to know about them, the more modern traits they seem to acquire.

A recent study published in the Journal of Archaeological Science suggests that cave dwellers wore shoes. Erik Trinkaus and Hong Shang of the Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri studied the toe bones of a skeleton found in a cave near Beijing. They compared these with the toe bones of modern Americans, Inuits and Native Americans from the time before the advent of the European conquerors. Shoes alter the wearer's toes. People who regularly walk barefoot tend to have strong and large toes while those wearing shoes do not. Trinkaus and Shang concluded that the Chinese cave dwellers regularly wore shoes.

MISSION VALLEY

The obvious conclusion is that cavemen were less primitive than we had thought. This same trend can also be seen in how Neanderthal man is presented. First specimen was discovered in 1856 in the Neander Valley in Germany and named after the place where it was found (Tal is valley in German). They were initially described as virtually subhuman missing links. With the passing of time, however, scientist have had to discard their previous notions about them. It is now known that the Neanderthals made musical instruments and efficient weapons, buried their dead and even used toothpicks.

It thus seems that the neat progress from primitive to modern man does not exist. The cave dwellers were by no means primitive people.

Cavemen Were Smarter Than We Thought

MISSION VALLEY

What Is a Vision Statement and Why Does My Business Need One?

A vision statement is something that says, "This is where we're going." That statement in itself should tell you why this is important, but in case you missed it, here are some clear reasons for why you need to take some time and work on this.

You need a vision statement because it
gives your business a sense of purpose and direction - you'll know exactly where you're heading. clearly articulates your most important goals and ambitions for your business. filters out the good opportunities (that might lead you off on a tangent) from the best opportunities (that will strengthen your position in your market) to help you make the best decisions for the future of your company gets everyone in your business on the same page inspires your leadership team, your staff, your partners and your clients and creates a sense of connection to a higher purpose. provides a measuring stick for how you're doing, and shows clearly what decisions need (and need not) be made. helps you hire the right people and make the right connections because you'll know clearly what you're wanting to achieve.

MISSION VALLEY

Without a strong vision statement, your business may well succeed, but it's not likely to thrive. A business can only thrive if everyone in the organization understands where they're going and what specific role each individual plays in the overall "big picture" of the company.

To start to work on your vision statement you'll need to examine your mission statement (which tells you what your purpose is) and ask yourself "based on my mission statement, where should my company be in 5 years?"

Here are some good examples of vision statements:

Avon
To be the company that best understands and satisfies the product, service and self-fulfillment needs of women - globally.

Chevron
At the heart of The Chevron Way is our vision...to be the global energy company most admired for its people, partnership and performance.

Ken Blanchard Companies
To be the number one advocate in the world for human worth in organizations

Nike
To be the number one athletic company in the world

See how it works?

Note: Make sure it's not some lofty "great words no meaning" vision statement. Make sure it's something your whole team actually gets excited about. You want this to be clear enough and practical enough that it will inspire, motivate and build a solid morale at every level of the company.

What Is a Vision Statement and Why Does My Business Need One?

MISSION VALLEY

The Process of Engineering Design

To a large extent we take the technology around us for granted, stopping to notice its value only once it has ceased to function. What we notice even less is the engineering design process, where dedicated engineers, entrepreneurs and inventors work for years to bring a product to market. We take a look at what is involved from concept to commercialization and how engineering designers avoid the ominous 'valley of death'.

It has been suggested that there is a rhizome effect in place when a learning curve spontaneously takes the same trajectory in unconnected parts of the world. This effect has been witnessed in the animal kingdom as well as in technological development in the human species. The trend can be spotted when two or more people who are totally unconnected come up with the same concept at the same time.

MISSION VALLEY

This famously happened with the invention of the telephone, which depending on how you view the situation was either thought up by Alexander Bell or Antonio Meucci amongst many others. It seems that the leap in learning happened across the board and many people had a breakthrough moment at the same time. The reason Alexander Bell came out top was because his patent application showed skilled engineering design.

The patenting process is where many new ideas fail. Putting in a patent application requires a complete technical breakdown of the product or idea in a way that describes every aspect of the concept. The engineering design process starts by identifying the need for a product, followed by research about its application and potential benefits. After this the concept is drawn up so it can be realized before being presented to a commercial sector where it can thereby be manufactured and implemented.

This process can take many years, and the competence of the engineering design can be a deciding factor in the progression from concept to manufacture. Many technologies are developed to a point where patents have been filed and prototypes made to demonstrate the potential of the invention or concept. Unfortunately, the leap from a prototype platform to commercial product often requires major modifications to be put into practice.

This is what is known as the 'valley of death', an area where designs have been unable to be modified to become commercially viable. There are literally thousands of patents that are filed globally every year. Some of these have the potential to change the way we live and the way industry functions, but many never have the chance to become used as they cannot bridge the gap between idea and implementation.

The Process of Engineering Design

MISSION VALLEY

The Rash of EMS Helicopter Crashes in the US - Causes and Prevention

There is an unexpected catastrophe happening on the way from horrific accident scenes in the U.S. on the way to hospitals in EMS helicopters. The helicopters are crashing killing many of the occupants at an unacceptable rate. If you've been injured in Southern California, whether it is in Long Beach, Big Bear, Laguna Beach, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Orange, or Yorba Linda, in Orange County, or Carlsbad, Oceanside, La Jolla, Del Mar, San Marcos, Vista and Escondido in San Diego, CA or in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indio, Coachella, Yucca Valley or some remote or mountainous area and it is dark, or in bad weather, your chances of surviving the trip to the hospital may be better in an ambulance.

Deaths as the result of helicopter crashes in the U.S. have been soaring to record levels and the National Transportation Safety Board has been investigating just what is behind this rash of Emergency Medical Service and Police helicopter crashes.

MISSION VALLEY

In the past 12 months, 31 people have died in eight crashes. EMS helicopter crashes in the U.S. have become one of the most dangerous areas of aviation and one of the highest accident rates for aviation crashes. This year alone, 24 people have died on medical airlifts.

An NTSB study of EMS helicopter crashes between 1983 and 2005 found that the majority of the crashes occurred - 77 percent as opposed to 31 percent - when weather conditions forced pilots to fly using their instruments rather than by looking outside for visual cues. In darkness, 56 percent of the crashes were fatal as compared to 24 percent when the flight was not in darkness.

That study determined 29 of those 55 accidents could have been avoided. A number of safety issues were identified. Consequently, in 2006, the NTSB issued a special report to address the safety issues of these flights to accident scenes and sought computerized safety equipment, terrain awareness and warning systems (TAWS) (also referred to as terrain avoidance technology) to warn pilots when they were flying too close to land.

It has been reported that while some progress has been made, none of the NTSB recommendations from that report have been fully implemented.

All but two of the past eight fatal EMS accidents have been at night or in bad weather.
By comparison, the fatal crash rate for ambulances is nothing like it is for helicopters.

Now the U.S. House and the Senate are considering legislation to address these safety issues and place higher standards on the industry.

Until this situation is improved, pilots of EMS helicopters as well as the police and medical personnel on the ground have to take into consideration the condition of the injured persons at accident scenes, the dangerousness of the location, as well as the weather conditions and darkness in determining if the accident victims can be taken to a hospital by ambulance or if the risks warrant the use of an EMS helicopter, both for the safety of the injury victims and the EMS pilots, flight nurses and paramedics.

Veteran EMS pilots say the use of night-vision goggles could improve their safety. But because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, there is apparently a shortage of these goggles. Fewer than a third of the 800 EMS helicopters in the U.S. have night-vision technology. The wait time for civilian use of the goggles at the largest U.S. manufacturer is six to eight months.

News Note - On October 16, 2008, a critical-care helicopter crashed in Aurora, Illinois, killing two crew members, a nurse and a 1 year-old patient while they were in the air and en route to a Chicago hospital. The helicopter reportedly clipped a guy wire from a radio station tower and crashed.

The Rash of EMS Helicopter Crashes in the US - Causes and Prevention

MISSION VALLEY

Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fans Redefine Top of the Line

The Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fans are the store brand for Lowes store. These are manufactured by Litex and the only place they can be purchased is at Lowes and several online stores. Theese Fans are an affordable product with many of their simpler products ranging in price from only to 0. This ceiling fan comes in the basic styles and designs, mainly in brass and white finishes. The Cheshire and the Calera are just two of the models in this low price range. They also offer a more detailed model called the New Orleans. They also offer an Energy Star rated fan. The more expensive models will offer more artistic types as the Bellhaven, Bedford, Knightsbridge and the Soleil.

lowes home improvement

Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fans are considered to be high quality fans by the consumers. Their many helpful features include uplights, remote controls and having the Energy Star label. A major advantage of these fans is the fact that they are so affordable by not sacrificing quality. The Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fans have four speeds that can easily be changed by the remote control.

LOWES

The higher end Ceiling Fans offer models such as the Lakeside II. It's main feature is its' simple beauty, with a white finish, tri-mount, six bleached oak/white blades that are reversible, and a five frost glass light kit. Another benefit of this fan is the price that is only 7. The Queensland has an old iron finish. Its' five blades have a walnut finish. There is also an integrated light kit with scavo glass, and a three-speed reversible motor with two position mounting options. This model of Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fans is only priced at 9. These two models are both sized at 52 inches.

Harbor Breeze offer fans both for indoor and outdoor use. They are also popular by the consumer by their energy efficiency and ease of operation. Another popular and unique model is the Harbor Breeze 74" Twin Breeze Ceiling Fan. It actually consists of two fans joined together by a single bowl of light. It has three blades on each fan and they have a cherry/dark oak finish. The overall finish of this model is aged bronze. This double fan becomes a conversation piece when guests come to visit and see its' unique style.

One consumer had many positive remarks about the Ceiling Fans. He had installed six of the company's fan in his home. The fans run steady, smooth and quiet. He installed them all himself, and this was after purchasing another brand of fan before returning those and purchasing the Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fans. He is also happy about the affordable prices of all of his new fans.

Most consumers are the happiest about the high quality of the fans while spending a lot less for them as compared to other brands on the market.

Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fans Redefine Top of the Line

LOWES

"Crossing" the Highway

My husband called me to tell me there was a man on the side of the road carrying a large cross and waving at passersby, so camera in hand, I jumped into my car in hopes of finding him there before the sun set. I had had a similar experience with another sign carrier in California, but this one was seeing space ships. I was hoping that wouldn't be the case here.

I am always curious to know why people do the things they do, especially in the realm of religion, so there I was, ALSO standing on the side of highway 68, talking to the man with the cross. It was interesting to see arms thrust out car windows and horns honking in agreement. A general acknowledgment of his efforts quickly became evident.

MISSION VALLEY

He didn't want his name mentioned because he said Jesus should get the glory. "No problem" said I, so the no-name cross bearer and I spoke a bit about his "side of the road" evangelistic mission. The conversation went something like this:

"What denomination are you?" I asked.
"Assemblies of God" he replied.
"Does your pastor approve of this?"
"Well, I carried the cross around the church."
"How long have you been doing this and why?"
"For about two years now. God told me to."

Okay...there it was...I just HAD to ask -
"God told you? How did He tell you?"

He didn't hesitate to say that God spoke to Him audibly one morning. He heard "Pick up the cross!" Although he felt people would consider him crazy, he did as the voice demanded and he's been doing it every chance he gets since. His brother, who attends church in California, told him the night before he heard the voice, that he would be carrying a cross. Well, okay.

I wanted to know what good would come of this beside just a few honks and waves. He told me that God gave him the vision that the entire Mohave Valley will eventually become a Christian community where people from all around will come to be healed and experience God's power and love - a "New Jerusalem" so to speak. He had already claimed it for Christ.

Well, I don't know about that (I ALWAYS test what I hear), but to have a whole Valley full of born again people who love one another in Jesus' name? HEY! WHAT A GREAT IDEA! He said he wished everyone could be saved. We had that in common.

What do I think of all this? Well, not too sure about the voice or the vision, I'm pretty much a "sola scriptura" gal myself, but his heart seems to be in the right place.

So if you happen to be speeding along Highway 68 and see a friendly guy holding a big wooden cross that says "Jesus is Lord," give him a honk or a wave. Anyway, he might just be reminding us to do the same. As he carries his cross, I will daily do my best to remember to pick up my own. How 'bout you? Smile.

"Crossing" the Highway

MISSION VALLEY

Northern California - 10 Reasons For NorCal to Be on Your Bucket List!

Northern California -- land of variety; land of Something for Everyone! That's why it should be on your Bucket List of "Things I Want to Do Before I Die."

Northern California is full of contrasts: from seaside beaches to towering mountain ranges; from arid desert to misty Redwood forests; from Ag land to sophisticated metropolises. I guarantee, you will find something you will love about Northern California!

MISSION VALLEY

So, what's to love?

1. The Ocean

You'll find sandy beaches and rocky bluffs; tide pools and fishing villages. There are seaside resorts like Carmel-by-the-Sea, harbors like Monterey Bay, and nature preserves like Point Reyes. Drive along the Big Sur coastline on Highway 1 for the most spectacular views you'll find anywhere in the world!

2. The Wine Country

Definitely Sonoma and Napa Valley -- where the California Wine Industry got it's start. But the "Wine Country" has now invaded almost all areas of Northern California. There are excellent wines and varietals being produced in such supposedly unlikely places as Mendocino, California's Gold Country, Lake County -- Lodi for Pete's sake!

3. City Life

When you think of Northern California cities, I'm sure that San Francisco is the first thing that pops into your mind. And there's good reason for that! It's a charming, sophisticated city with a European flair -- one of my favorite places! But there's also funky Berkeley, once-upon-a-time-college-town-all-grown-up San Jose, cowboy-town-turned-capital-city Sacramento, and charming Chico!

4. Snow Country

A short trip to the Sierra Nevadas or the Cascades from where ever you are in NorCal will get you to the snow anytime from late Fall to early Spring. You can ski, snow board, ice skate, travel on snowshoes, or -- sit in the Lodge in front of a giant fireplace and enjoy a hot toddy!

5. Nature's Call

Most people think of California as a heavily populated state, and that's true in some areas. But, in Northern California, most of the population resides in and near the towns and cities. Once you get outside the city limits you'll find forests teeming with wildlife, migratory waterfowl following the Pacific Flyway to warmer climes, rolling hills flowing with valley oaks, mustard, and wild flowers. Terrific for Sunday drives and/or backpacking excursions.

6. History -- Whose?

Nothing says "history" like the California Gold Rush! Names like Placerville, Hangtown, Coloma bring up images of gold panning, Long Toms, and dredging. But there's much more to NorCal's history than the Gold Rush. Native Americans who were here thousands of years before any of the others. The Spaniards and their missions, the Mexican era of pueblos and haciendas, the Russians -- even the Ozzies played a role!

7. Water Sports

Between Northern California's Pacific Ocean, its lakes, and rivers, and streams, there is an abundance of water for such sports as fishing (salt & freshwater), boating (motorboats, kayaks & canoes, houseboats, sailboats), surfing, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and white water rafting!

8. Mountain Vacations

Everything from backpacking into the high country wilderness to renting a log cabin at the edge of the forest to luxury lodges in the midst of one of the most famous national parks in the country, Northern California's mountain ranges offer a huge variety of experiences.

9. National Parks, State Parks, & National Forests

Can you say, "Yosemite National Park?" Gargantuan granite "outcroppings," a valley forged by ancient glaciers, alpine meadows . . . But that's only the beginning! There's Lassen Volcanic National Park, famous for its hydrothermal areas; and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park with its giant sequoias. There's way more wilderness in NorCal than you might imagine, given its population!

10. Agriculture

What's been the biggest competition to wilderness in Northern California (besides people)? Agriculture. Wetlands were drained, forests were cleared . . . On the other hand, there's probably more variety of foodstuffs grown in Northern California than anywhere else on earth. Artichokes, cotton, fruit trees, nuts, sunflower seeds, rice, melons, squashes, corn, wheat -- not to mention raisins and wine grapes! Have you ever wanted to see how almonds are knocked from the tree, or how olive oil is pressed from the olives? Take a farm tour and see where your food comes from!

Have you heard enough? It's time to get out your Bucket List and add Northern California to it -- I'll bet it's going to be at the top of your list!

Northern California - 10 Reasons For NorCal to Be on Your Bucket List!

MISSION VALLEY

Branding Versus Positioning - What's the Difference?

Positioning or branding: what is the difference?

OK, here is where the academics start to split hairs over definitions. From my point of view, positioning describes the measurable differences between your offering and that of the competitors. It really is a look backwards (i.e., a historical view) based on the evidence gathered by experience or market research. It says what is in your target market's minds.

MISSION VALLEY

Good positioning is what makes you unique. It is an expression of how your target market describes your firm when compared to your competitors. It is important to understand this is the customers' view, not yours. It is their perception of your firm and how it stacks up to the competition. Consider positioning as a customer review or report card of you stack up to the competition.

Meanwhile, branding is bigger in scope and more ethereal in that it expresses why your customers are loyal or prefer your brand. Maybe less measurable than positioning, but still real, branding is a covenant between the provider and the customer.

Branding is an expression of value. Good brands are authentic, differentiated, and consistent. You cannot fake a good brand, it must express your uniqueness, and it was be reliable.

You build your brand by creating an image delivered by your logo, tag line, fonts, name, use of color, and sounds: they communicate your ideas, your values, and your personality. Every contact or touch of your customer reinforces the brand.

That is all you really need to know.

Branding Versus Positioning - What's the Difference?

MISSION VALLEY

Canyon Landforms

A canyon landform is a deep and narrow valley with high walls that typically extends for miles. Erosion that takes hundreds of thousand of years is the cause of this forming landform. The steep walls are made from the rocks we all know as sandstone and granite. There are also canyons that are underwater which are known to the systematic community as submarine types. Some of these landforms are thousands of feet under their surrounding landscape which give canyons depth. The widths of the canyons may vary between miles or feet. In rare occurrences, the light of the sun cannot reach to the ground of the canyon due to how deep it is.

The wind and water usually produces canyons during a very long and tedious process of erosion by water and wind. Wind does play a big part of forming canyon landforms. Water though, is the most important reason of forming canyon landforms. Water scours and cuts away the layers of rock and forms the floor of the canyon over hundreds of years. Canyons are the results of millions of years of dispensation to give the existing shape. Canyon landforms have larger depth than the width. Canyon landforms are narrow and deep valley carved by a swift-moving river and the walls of the canyon landforms could be V-shaped or smooth. These impressive landforms are formed in the limestone rock areas as the limestone is to a certain extent soluble.

MISSION VALLEY

Gradual geologic uplift may end up in massive rivers running in the canyons. These streams are referred to as entrenched rivers. Rivers that are in canyons have a tough time changing their direction. In the northwestern US there are 2 examples of geologic uplift rivers; they are the Colorado River and the Snake River.

Two other kinds of canyon landforms are found around the planet are the plateau and slot types. The most common ways canyons are formed are through erosion. Two of the most famed types of plateaus and erosion landforms are the Grand Canyon located in mostly in Arizona and the Black Canyon is Colorado. A river is flowing on the floor of these canyons which erodes and shapes them. Many of the Grand Canyon has walls that are high and steep.

Canyon Landforms

MISSION VALLEY

Are the Allegations of Publishing and Media Bias in the 2008 Presidential Election Fair Or Useful?

In Orange County, California, in San Diego, CA, in Los Angeles, La Jolla, Del Mar, Pacific Beach, Carlsbad, Oceanside, San Marcos, Mission Beach and Escondido or the cities of Huntington Beach, Anaheim Hills, Yorba Linda, Buena Park, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, and Laguna Hills, Buena Park, Temecula, Indian Wells, La Quinta, or Palm Springs, unless you haven't turned on the television or read a newspaper during the 2008 Presidential election, or looked at the internet, you have seen claims mostly by the Republican campaign that the publishing media is biased.

For the most part in this Presidential campaign, one candidate initially leveled these attacks on the press with regularity, the Republican candidate, John McCain. While newspapers expect this to some extent, the public that is not wedded to one side of the fence or the other seemed to tire of the attacks. And for publishing attorneys in California and CA election lawyers and the rest of the country, this has been the year that such attacks have all but seemed toothless and inconsequential.

MISSION VALLEY

In the 2008 Presidential Election, John McCain denounced the New York times in the strongest words, following a Times report that McCain's campaign manager had been pain nearly million by mortgage entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. McCain's chief strategist, Steve Schmidt said the New York Times is no longer a journalistic organization but is 150 percent in the tank for Barack Obama. Schmidt earlier attacked MSNBC as being an organ of the Democratic National Committee, and said the news media are on a mission to destroy Sarah Palin.

Unfortunately for John McCain, it has since been reported in the press that McCain's campaign manager's lobbying firm owned by his campaign manager has received ,000/month for nearly three years and that and that the campaign manager was paid ,000/month for nearly five years by an advocacy organization that he headed and which was financed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to fight regulation. It has further been reported that McCain's senior advisor, his campaign's vice chairman, and his Congressional liaison, also made large sums of money from Fannie and Freddie lobbying or were in firms that did.

In an apparent attempt to deflect attention away from his mistaken attack on the New York Times story, McCain then announced he was suspending his campaign to immediately fly to Washington after awaking that morning to find a report in the Washington Post that he was behind in the polls by nine points. Soon after attempting to criticize that finding, and knowing what the disaster Sarah Palin's interview with Katie Couric would be aired that night, McCain chose to dump his appearance on the David Letterman show, upstage the Couric interview with his own interview on the CBS News, and announce the suspension of his campaign that was in reality, never a suspension.

In hindsight of course, McCain's actions were a huge error in judgment. His dilly-dallying around New York after ditching Letterman were picked up on and hammered at him unmercifully for two nights on the David Letterman show and later on the Daily Show, other news shows, on the internet and in the press. By the time he arrived the next day in Washington, it had already been announced that there was bipartisan support for the bailout bill, that just as quickly dissipated upon his arrival. It was reported that his campaign had not been suspended and Letterman, among others joked at his expense why he must have felt he could not leave his campaign in the hands of Sarah Palin, when she was seen incapable of answering simple questions put to her by Katie Couric. And after announcing he would not take part in the debate until there was either a bailout bill or great progress toward one, he had to fly back from Washington for the debate with no bailout bill in hand and Congress much less united than when he had arrived.

After John McCain was later skewered by David Letterman for days, there was little he could do. He could not attack David Letterman as being biased. David Letterman is not the news, he's a comedian. He has license to make jokes at candidate's expense. On top of that, McCain had not only cancelled his appearance, but David Letterman had shown his audience a live feed from CBS News of McCain getting make up applied to his face for an appearance on the CBS News with Katie Couric just a short distance away. When he later made up for his missed appearance on David Letterman two weeks later, he admitted his mistake saying, "I screwed up."

Attacking the media has long been a tactic of national candidates. In this election, once again, we have seen this tactic employed, yet with little of the success it enjoyed in previous Presidential campaigns. The spoofs of John McCain and Sarah Palin on Saturday Night Live have been relentless and hilarious, and with that popularity, there has been little either candidate could do but laugh along with the American public and hope for an invitation to appear on the show themselves.

Surprisingly there have been less allegations of unfairness than one would suppose against two news channels that are well recognized fervent supporters of one candidate over another. Even the candidates have made jokes how some of the hosts on MSNBC favor Obama and how many of the hosts on Fox News favor McCain. With these jokes there now seems to be an acceptance of bias by news stations and less of an effort by newscasters to remain unbiased even on financial channels.

In the past, attacking the press has proved fruitful for Presidential candidates. This time the attack has fallen on deaf ears and has either been the exception to the rule that it will help a candidate, or there is a change taking place in what a candidate risks if he is wrong or perceived as being thin skinned.

As the election winds down and major newspapers endorsing candidates, with some newspapers such as the Chicago Tribune having never previously endorsed a Democratic party candidate for President, endorsing Obama, allegations of media bias takes to the sidelines and the electorate will decide whether they press has been fair or not, or simply doing their job.

Are the Allegations of Publishing and Media Bias in the 2008 Presidential Election Fair Or Useful?

MISSION VALLEY

Small Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Small bathroom remodeling requires some solid plans when you have little space to work with. You should focus on one or two main areas if you're looking to improve the look and feel of a small bathroom. This article will look at a couple of ideas you might use in your next remodeling project.

lowes electric fireplaces

Sinks Rule

LOWES

If you're limited in space, you may want to focus on the sink and cabinet area of your bathroom. Sinks can add an incredible value and convenience to any small bathroom. You can find many wonderful ideas by looking online ad different plumbing supply companies. If you're lucky enough to live in or near a larger city, you can find many displays already set up.

One of the things that really complete the sinks look is the faucet that you choose. This is an area where you should not spare any expense. It really is true that you get what you pay for when it comes to faucets and sinks.

Think about the Toilet to

The next area that you should focus on is the commode or toilet. In today's world there are so many unique designs that a toilet is no longer just a toilet. If you are thinking in this direction than you would want to be able to marriage up your toilet in your sink choices to be a nice combination.

Get Some New Ideas

If you're fresh out of ideas for your small bathroom remodeling project you can often times find wonderful ideas in your local home improvement store. Memo often have free brochures right at the front of the store when you first go in, and most of your home depot or Lowes department stores.

Small Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

LOWES

Solar Powered Lawn Mowers - Get Out!

During recessionary periods it makes sense to cut costs around your house and see what you can take out of your family budget. If you ask any landscaping contractor or yard mowing service they will tell you that many of their customers have dropped off. Let's face it, when the economy gets tight people have to tighten their belts, and therefore, they cut out the landscaping services.

lowes fire pit

Of course, as soon as they do this, they have to mow their own lawns, and whereas, this might seem like a very simple operation, it can get quite expensive and get quite complicated in a hurry. If you go down to the local Lowes or Home Depot you will note that some of the lawnmowers cost upwards of 0 or more. And you will still need an edger, and other yard tools to do the job yourself properly.

LOWES

But as long as you are going to be spending 0 or more on a lawnmower, why not get a solar powered lawnmower and keep up with the Greens. (A takeoff of; keeping up with the Jones'). Did you know that there is a gentleman who has invented a solar lawnmower? His name is Guy Marsden, an electrical engineer, and you can look him up online.

The solar lawnmower needs to sit out in the sun in charge, for a while before you start cutting the grass I am told, although I do not personally own a solar lawnmower just yet. It is a rather simple electric lawnmower and runs on a 12 V motor. If you're going to cut your own grass, why not keep it green? Please consider all this.

Solar Powered Lawn Mowers - Get Out!

LOWES

California Tourist Attractions & Must See Places In California

On the West Coast of the United States, California offers plenty of travel ideas. It is mainly because of the reason that it is geographically diverse and each diversity results in its own beauty. It is one of the largest state in the United States regarded as the Golden State due to its historical past. The state is one of the most visited travel destinations not only just by Americans but also by people all around the world.

Monterey was the state capital once. However, being located in the central part of the state, Sacramento has been the capital city of California. Los Angeles is the largest and most populous city. Among the popular cities of California there are San Francisco, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Monterey, Palm Springs, San Jose, Long Beach, Berkeley, Oakland, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Santa Cruz, Fresno, Bakersfield, Pasadena etc. Most of these cities are popular with their beauties as they are worldwide famous. For example, Los Angeles called as the "City of Angels" is the most populous and charming city in which many celebrities live.

MISSION VALLEY

The regions of California are mainly: San Diego County, Deserts, Inland Empire, Los Angeles County, Orange County, Central Coast, San Francisco Bay Area, North Coast, Shasta Cascade, Central Valley, Gold Country, High Sierra.

As a travel destination California houses National Parks & monuments, amusement and theme parks, natural attractions, wineries, spots for outdoor activities and beaches.

In order to learn tne meaning of "having fun" amusement and theme parks of California must be visited. Among them there are Disney Land, Universal Studio, SeaWorld, Marine World, Hurricane Harbor, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Earthquake, Knotts Berry Farm, Lego Land, Funderland, Scandia Amusement Park, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Marine World, Paramount's Great America. These are all mustsee places for the visitors.

California has many beautiful National Parks, State Parks and Monuments such as Channel Islands National Park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Death Valley National Park, Redwood National Park, Sequoia National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Point Reyes National Seashores, Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, Lava Beds National Monument, Cabrillo National Monument, Lassen Volcanic National Park etc.

The state also presents architectural landmarks and museums. In Los Angeles, casinos offer top class entertainment. No need to tell how much popularity Hollywood owns. Golden Gate Bridge, Hollywood Wax Museum, Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo in Carmel, The San Francisco Opera, The American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco, Alcatraz are also places to see.

For the ones who love outdoor, California offers mountains, deserts and coastal areas to explore. All kinds of activites are available: rafting, birding, hiking, biking, water and snow skiing, caving, watersports etc. Also, there are wildlife viewing areas. A wide variety of flora and fauna exist in California.

The wineries are also popular places to visit. Here one can go on winery tours which mean tasting gourmet food and wonderful wines.

Situated along the west coast of the United States, California has always been attractive.

California Tourist Attractions & Must See Places In California

MISSION VALLEY

Get A Universal Studios Vacation Package

For those lucky individuals who have experienced the Universal Studios them park experience, know how fun and memorable the time there was. This is why this theme park has become one of the biggest attractions in all of America. Thousands of people jam in and out of the Universal Studio´s gates everyday. Thousands of people come to Orlando, Florida on vacation just to come to this one place. So if this is you, consider a vacation pack and save yourself a lot of money.

lowes gazebo

There is no point of spending extra money that you could use for other things when there is a way to get a discounted price. The standard Universal Studios vacation package includes accommodations for two nights or more at the Portofino Bay Hotel, A Lowes Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel, or the Royal Pacific Resort. You also get multi day admission to both Universal´s Islands of Adventure theme park and the regular Universal Studios them park. You receive a "CityWalk" party pass, a Universal Express ride access pass which gives you priority to select rides and attractions for the day. You also get priority seating at select Universal Orlando restaurants, complimentary water taxi or shuttle transportation from your hotel to the them park, complimentary merchandise delivery from Universal Them Park Stores to your room, and you have the luxury of charging purchases straight to your room. With all these great features, why not get a vacation package when going to Universal Studios.

LOWES

Countless people go to Universal Studios every year. If you could save money while doing so, why wouldn´t you? Consider a Universal Studios vacationing package when vacationing in Orlando. If you want to go to Universal studios, a vacation package is your best bet. If you take this route, you definitely won´t regret it.

Get A Universal Studios Vacation Package

LOWES