Mainstream Social Inclusion

December 30, 2009

Motorist in Bicycle Accident Still Sought by Los Angeles Police

Filed under: Legal,Travel — admin @ 11:08 pm

A 40 year old bicyclist was struck by an SUV in Los Angeles recently, resulting in serious injuries.  The accident took place at the intersection of Archwood Street and Laurel Canyon Boulevard, and the motorist who was thought to be driving a Nissan Pathfinder left the scene.  Los Angeles police continue to search for the motorist.

It is likely that the driver of the SUV realized that they had struck the cyclist, according to detectives, but chose to drive off anyway leaving the seriously injured cyclist lying in the road.  Anyone in the public who witnessed the accident or has any information are being asked to come forward by detectives, as the bicyclist remains in serious condition at a hospital.

Hostility between motorists and those who ride bicycles has been of huge concern recently.  Just last month, road rage that resulted in two bicyclists being seriously injured caused a Los Angeles doctor to be convicted after pulling out in front of the two as they were riding.  He is expected to be sentenced in December, and the two injured cyclists have made it known that they believe stricter punishments are called for when it comes to motorists who do not respect that those who ride bicycles do have rights.

Commuting by bicycle has become more common and extremely popular in California, largely due to the fact that gas prices were so high last summer.  Now, with the economic downturn, more people are riding bicycles as a way to get to work and to enjoy leisure time.  It saves a substantial amount on fuel expenses, and is simply a more efficient way of getting around town.  Unfortunately, it also means that California’s congested streets are becoming a frequent place for road rage to take place, which Los Angeles personal injury lawyer have noticed.

To increase safety and make risks less likely, bicyclists are encouraged to:

* Wear clothing that is brightly colored so you are easily seen at night.

* At night, keep front and rear lights on

* Try to ride where motorists can easily see you

* Avoid tricks and stunts where motorists are present

* Do not ride against the direction of traffic

* Obey traffic rules

* Remain calm if a motorist becomes aggressive

* Try to avoid congested areas such as intersections, and take the back roads to your destination when possible

* Always wear a helmet to protect from head injuries

The Reeves Law Group has offices across California, and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of bicycle accidents.  Please contact us for a free consultation at (800) 644-8000.

December 16, 2009

Inexpensive Cottage Design Ideas

Filed under: Products & Services — admin @ 11:09 am

cottage-decorChanging the original theme of your house into a cottage design does not have to eat up all your time and money. In fact, you can achieve this even if you keep your basic structure intact, and without the services of an interior decorator. The good thing about cottage design is that it incorporates the home owner’s personal style and turns it into a work of art. To give your house the feel of a cozy retreat, here are some suggestions.

Think light.

The secret behind the relaxing atmosphere of a cottage home is the use of light materials. Remove heavy brocade curtains and valances and replace them with airy or gauzy fabrics like organza. Bamboo blinds and those of other light wood materials are ideal.

Start a Pattern Revolution.

Don’t be afraid to use bold prints and patterns. Just make sure that you balance it out. A cottage design should be warm and welcoming, but not overwhelming. Also make sure that the size of your prints matches the size of the fabric or furniture it is covering.

Match the Small with the Bold.

If you have some tiny spaces or corners in your house, they need not be negligent or unnoticeable. What you can do is to paint little spaces in bright, bold colors and they will pop out proudly. You can even use this way to divide spaces and give you extra storage places. Paint hallways and closets unexpectedly. Cottage design gives you the opportunity to play with whim, so use this to your advantage.

In With the Old, In With the New.

Keep both old and new elements. Don’t be afraid to mix contemporary with vintage. You can have the latest gadgets and appliances and yet blend them with an antique telephone or your well-worn writing desk. Don’t throw out old typewriters and pieces of china, but let them work hand in hand with your brand-new things. Play with your own design ideas. This gives the rooms an unpredictable, highly original character.

Open Your Shelves to the World.

Remove the doors of your kitchen cabinets and other such storage cabinets. Even your recipe books and plates can make colorful statements, plus they are more easily accessible. You can also play with display cupboards in other rooms of the house, and fill it with a colorful assortment of random knickknacks like wedding giveaways, collections, and travel souvenirs.

Simply Remember Your Favorite Things.

As I mentioned earlier, cottage design has a lot to do with YOUR personal style. To make your home a testimony to “you”, surround yourself with your favorite things. Make statements with your beloved works of art, books, and items of sentimental value such as gifts from the people in your life. Hand-crafted things are a beautiful addition. Some design ideas are to use those doilies your granny knitted way back then, or recycle that patchwork quilt that you and your friends worked on at summer camp. It will give you that relaxing sense of familiarity.

Once you have given your home that basic cottage feel, it will become a delightful continuing process. Every now and then, you will come across a little something or other that will make a fine addition, or discover new cottage decorating ideas.

December 14, 2009

Dining Reservations Software – An Amazing Technology No Restaurant Owner Should Be Without!

Filed under: Software — admin @ 2:53 pm

Once you have used dining reservations software in your restaurant business, there is no doubt you will wonder what you did without it. Every aspect of your day will be so simplified and stress free, you (and your staff) will actually look forward to the day.  Stress is greatly reduced, and the entire atmosphere transforms into one that is relaxed and enjoyable.  Even your customers will notice the difference!

Have you ever been curious as to how much business you were losing because of miscommunication?  One employee may take a cancellation from a client, and fail to inform anyone else during a hectic or busy time of the day.  This means that you lose out on potential revenue by leaving a table available that could have been occupied by another client.  The small and large aspects of your business can be handled with ease, with nearly no effort at all on your part.

Dining reservations software allows you to keep up not only with cancellations and reservations, but table availability and client preferences as well.  You can generate reports to know where your revenues stand, and even see who owes you money.  The satisfaction of your customers is your primary concern; this software allows you to maintain records on any client you wish.  Just enter their name, address, favorites foods, and even what table they prefer!  This makes it easy for even new employees to greet them correctly from their very first day on the job.

Whether your establishment is small or large, or you have multiple locations, you will find that dining reservations software streamlines everything and reduces chaos and confusion.  Perhaps you have private rooms or blocks of space that are used only for private parties and meetings.  Or, you have locations all across the state.  You can manage every aspect of your business effortlessly.  Know which rooms are booked for what date, and which restaurant is performing better than the others, all at a quick glance. Reserve Interactive also offers catering software solutions; their catering software is a powerful application that allows you to streamline all aspects of the catering business. From menu creation, to ingredient management to accounting.

Be on top of your game, know where your business stands and increase the satisfaction of your customers.  With dining reservations software, you can do it all!  This technology transforms your restaurant from chaotic and stressful to something else altogether – an establishment you will enjoy running!  Everyone benefits greatly – you, your staff, and most importantly, your customers.

Worst Toys of 2009: Alert to Consumers From California Product Liability Lawyers

Filed under: Legal,Products & Services — admin @ 2:24 pm

The holidays are here once again, and California product liability lawyers have thoughts of unsafe and defective toys on their minds.  World Against Toys Causing Harm, a toy safety watchdog, has released its list of dangerous toys, which include the top ten worst toys for 2009.  This list comes just in time to alert parents as they prepare to start shopping for toys for their children.

This list includes numerous toys that may pose a choking hazard because of small parts, as well as toys that could present dangers of penetration or blunt force injuries.  Parents, relatives, and anyone who intends to shop for small children should be aware of this list so that they do not buy any of these items which may have been on their list.  According to WATCH, the toys included on the annual list are those that may have to potential to cause serious injuries or even be fatal to children.

1.  The Disney-Pixar Wall-E Rocket Launcher tops the list, and is manufactured/distributed by Disney/Hoop retail stores.  This toy is recommended for children over the age of 3, but the mention of it not being advised for children under this age is in very fine print.  The rocket can travel as far as 20 feet, and can potentially cause eye injuries.

2.  The Moon Board Pogo Board is manufactured by Big Time Toys and sold at Toys R Us stores.  This toy does come with warnings about using the proper safety equipment, but is still considered a risk for head or impact injuries.

3.  Serious choking injuries may arise in using the Curious Baby Curious George Counting – My First Book of Numbers book.  This book is manufactured and distributed by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing and is sold at Toys R Us.  The book comes with parts including a rod that holds 5 beads which could come off, and is considered a serious choking hazard.

4.  Also found at Toys R Us is the Dark Knight Batman figure which is made and distributed by Mattel.  This action toy has two ears that are pointed and made of sharp plastic, capable of causing penetration injuries.

5.  A toy manufactured by Hasbro, the X-MEN Origins Slashin’ Action Wolverine, puts children at risk of serious eye injuries and other penetration injuries because of the pointed plastic claws n both fists.  This toy is sold at BJ’s and has no warnings about possible injuries on the packaging.

6.  The Lots to Love Babies mini nursery manufactured by JC’s Toys Group poses a hazardous choking risk, and is sold by Kmart.  This toy contains a small plastic attachment that uses only a thin plastic cord to attach it, easily removable by a child.

7.  Just Kidz JR musical instrument is made by Kmart and sold at Sears.  This toy comes with a 4 1/4 inch drumstick that can easily come off of a xylophone to which it is attached, causing serious risks of injury to small children.

8.  Toy State International Limited manufactures the CAT “rugged mini”, which has axles and wheels that are prone to separate from the body, under which a three-inch long metal spoke lies with the potential to cause serious puncture injuries.

9.  Wal-Mart sells the Pucci Pups Maltese which is made by Battat Incorporated.  This toy has the potential to cause suffocation or strangulation injuries.

10.  Spy Gear Viper Blaster is manufactured and distributed by Wild Planet Entertainment Inc., and sold at Kmart stores.  This toy contains darts that shoot with a good deal of force – enough to inflict the risk of serious eye injuries not only to children, but anyone.

If you have been injured by any of these products, or another defective product; make sure to contact a Los Angeles personal injury attorney to review your situation and determine whether you have a valid case.

The Reeves Law Group has offices across California, and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of product liability.  Please contact us for a free consultation at (800) 644-8000.

December 10, 2009

Dining Reservations Software – A Technology You Will Wonder How You Lived Without

Filed under: Software — admin @ 11:36 am

Maybe you have heard of dining reservations software, and wondered what is so great about it.  Once you use it and see just how amazing it is, you will wonder how you ever managed your business without it!  This smart technology software allows you to run your entire business with nearly no effort, and streamlines every aspect of running a restaurant.  If you are not familiar with all of the benefits, you will find this information enlightening.

You know that managing any type of business can be stressful, especially a restaurant that often gets busy and hectic.  Dining reservations software allows you to enter dining reservations easily, and even copy, edit or move them.  You can collect any type of information you wish about your customers, including their food preferences or allergies, where they prefer to sit and what foods they like.  This benefit also helps new employees know all about a customer from their very first day on the job!

Things can happen in the food industry that cause you to lose money, such as a cancellation that no one in the restaurant was aware of except the staff member who took it.  This means lost revenue, but that can easily be avoided.  Never lose money again because of double bookings or cancellations!  You can keep up with every detail effortlessly, and know at a moments glance if a cancellation has been made.

Dining reservations software is also a must for those who have multiple locations.  No matter how many restaurants you have, you can manage reservation sheets for each separate location from a centralized location if you wish – the decision is up to you.  You can also manage private rooms or segments as seating blocks to help you easily control parties, business meetings and other events.   Reserve Interactive also offers catering software for companies offering catering services.

Handling the business end of your company is also made simpler.  You can generate reports such as revenue summaries, cover count analysis and detailed histories about your customers that include their visit and spending histories.  Truthfully, there is almost nothing you cannot do with this amazing technology at your fingertips!  Are you ready to make every aspect of running your restaurant easier and more efficient?  Dining reservations software is one investment you will find essential to managing your business.

iPod Car Adapters Answer a Frequently Asked Question

Filed under: Products & Services,Technology,Travel — admin @ 10:04 am

One question that is asked often by those who love music is “how can I play my iPod with my car stereo?”  While you may not think there is a solution, iPod adapters offer anyone the ability to listen to their own type of music and favorite artists no matter where they go.  Listening to the radio can get monotonous; so many stations these days play the same songs over and over, with constant commercial interruptions.  Good news – you do have choices!

Technology has come a very long way.  When MP3 players and other iPods came out just a few years ago, music lovers discovered that they could carry thousands of their favorite songs in one tiny device.  Now, iPod car adapters allow you to listen while you travel on errands, to work, or even on vacation!  Exciting news for those who truly enjoy music.  No more ripping CD’s, buying songs on iTunes or lugging around heavy CD cases.

Even if your vehicle is an older model, you have nothing to worry about.  Nearly any make of car can be adapted so that you can listen to the songs you love straight through the stereo of your car!  If your vehicle came with a cassette player, there is a solution for you as well.  In the event that you had a stereo installed after you purchased your car, you are in luck as well.

iPod car adapters offer a variety of solutions for your listening needs.  Even if you are on a strict budget, there are options that are very affordable, and will have you listening to your favorite tunes and artists in no time!  The wireless FM module is the most inexpensive solution, and is a great choice if you live in an area where there is little interference or competition in FM radio stations.  Simply select an unused FM station and you are ready to go!  If you can find one with unused frequencies on both sides, even better.

Whether you have a compact disc player or cassette player in your car, the options allow you to play your tunes right through your car stereo system!  This means you can control your music right from the stereo controls, or through the steering wheel if you have that option.  You can have true, crystal clear sound that is amazing – and you never lose your music, even when traveling in isolated areas.

As you can see, there is an answer to your question!  If you have wondered how to play your iPod in your car, or even if it was a possibility, now you know.  iPod car adapters are a great advance in technology, and allow you to listen in your vehicle, where it matters most.

December 7, 2009

Risk of Brain Injuries Increased In Motorcyclists Without Helmets According to NHTSA Study

Filed under: Legal,Travel — admin @ 11:03 am

An individual’s chance of surviving a motorcycle crash increases significantly when the rider wears a helmet, and California motorcycle accident lawyers are well aware of this fact.  The NHTSA has recently conducted a study that examines how the use of a helmet decreases the risk of varying degrees of TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury.)  Hospital expenses in those who do wear helmets and those that don’t are another area of the study.  The study has shown, to no one’s surprise, that those motorcyclists that do wear a helmet experience less risk of TBI, and also have less hospital expenses.

This study was conducted using data from the years 2003,2004 and 2005, which included 104,472 motorcyclists in 18 states.  In this study, 43% of the motorcyclists did not wear helmets, and 57% did at the time the accidents occurred.  Across both groups, an interesting fact was proven:  Whether they were or were not wearing a helmet, 40% of the motorcyclists received severe injuries or died due to the accident.  California personal injury attorneys realize that a large portion of those who ride motorcycles are victims of serious injuries or death when a crash occurs.

In the study conducted by the NHTSA, 6.6 % who did not wear a helmet suffered moderate to severe injuries to the face or head.  In those motorcyclists who did wear helmets, only 5.1% experienced severe injuries.  As far as Traumatic Brain Injury, only 15% of helmeted riders experienced this, compared to 21% in those who did not wear a helmet.  The study showed a very distinct difference in those who suffered a serious brain injury, depending on whether or not they wore a helmet.  This study does prove the difference in the occurrence of severe TBI based on motorcyclists who did wear helmets versus those that did not.

Not surprisingly, statistics prove that motorcyclists who do wear a helmet have a much lower chance of being the victim of either head or face injuries, brain injury or death.  Hospital costs were also measured in the study, which concluded that expenses for those who suffered TBI were substantially higher – in fact 13 times higher than for those motorcyclists who did not suffer TBI.  Non TBI patients had a hospital bill averaging $2,461, while those that did suffer a TBI had charges of approximately $31,979.

Naturally, those who did not suffer TBI went home much quicker, and were not as likely to die while in the hospital, or to spend time in a long term care or rehab facility.  Over half of the motorcyclists who were hospitalized with TBI died.  Fatalities caused by motorcycle accidents continue to increase, and the NHTSA conducted this study as part of ongoing efforts to lower the incidence of fatalities in motorcycle crashes.

The Reeves Law Group has offices across California, and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of motorcycle accidents.  Please contact us for a free consultation at (800) 644-8000.

December 4, 2009

Dining Reservations Software Helps You Manage Business Effortlessly

Filed under: Software,Technology — admin @ 9:27 pm

Do you own a flourishing restaurant? Then you know that things often get hectic and stressful. Dining reservations software is an exciting technology that allows you to manage all aspects of your business with nearly no effort on your part. Tasks that take time out of your day can be done in an instant!

Your employees will be more satisfied with their jobs as well, because every aspect of running your dining establishment will be streamlined.

Real-time update capabilities mean you never have to worry about double bookings or table availability.  Dining reservations software allows you to see what tables are reserved at a glance, so that you don’t have to worry about overbooking.  If you have more than one restaurant location, reservations can all be handled from one central location, or from each individual location – the decision is yours.  Security is another aspect you control.  You determine who has access to the software, and who should not.

Most established restaurants have clients who visit on a regular basis.  While you may know their names, food preferences and where they enjoy sitting, your staff members may not know this.  New employees can quickly look up this information, so that they can greet your customer by name and show them to their favorite table – even though they have never seen them before!  Imagine how impressed your clients will be.

Dining reservations software also allows you to keep up with your accounts payable and receivables, so that you always know where you stand.  You can easily see which clients may owe you money, if you have customers that keep a running tab.  Every aspect of running your business, from cancellations, special room bookings, reservations and client preferences is made easier.  Never again will you wake up in the morning, knowing that you are facing a stress filled day.  This incredible technology will actually change your life.

Consider investing in dining reservations software for all of your reservation needs.  The web-based technology, customer history database for reference, and real time reservation system will make not only your job less scattered and stressful, it will benefit every member of your staff as well.  The result?  A relaxed atmosphere, increased productivity, and customers who are sure to return to your establishment on a regular basis – and bring their friends.

Jeff Walden
Find dining reservations software at Reserve Interactive – Also offering Catering software solutions.

December 1, 2009

The Armored Vehicles, BMW 7 Series

Filed under: Products & Services,Travel — admin @ 4:02 pm

BMW sets the standard with an armored car for those who need the ultimate level of security. The BMW 7 Series High Security can be based on the 2010 BMW 760Li or 750Li models. Either version of the BMW 7 Series High Security meets the new ballistic protection level VR7. They are certified to BRV 2009. All in all, their armored cars are highly rated.

BMW says the ‘non-transparent surfaces’ of the BMW 7 Series High Security also meet the ballistic protection level VR9. BMW also says that the armored BMW 7 Series High Security was developed along with the standard model so the safety components have been integrated right into the production process.

Powered by a 6.0-litre V12 engine developing 544 hp and 750 Nm of torque, the BMW 760Li High Security has a 0-to-100 km/h acceleration time of 6.2 seconds. Powered by a 4.4-litre V8 engine that produces 407 hp and 600 Nm of torque, The BMW 750Li High Security has a 0-to-100 km/h time of 7.9 seconds.

The BMW 7 Series High Security has been fitted with reinforced suspension, dampers and suspension strut top mountings and a modified chassis, to accommodate the extra weight.

In the following portion of their press release, BMW states: A new definition of maximum security: The new BMW 7 Series High Security. Munich. With the launch of a new generation of high-security sedans based on the BMW 7 Series, the leading supplier of premium vehicles meets the most stringent safety requirements for persons at risk while traveling in their vehicles. In addition to the BMW, there are numerous other quality Armored Cars and in particular armored luxury vehicles such as an armored Mercedes, Lexus, Toyota, Suburban and various Sedans, Trucks and related bulletproof cars.

Both, the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 750Li High Security are the first models in the world to be certified to BRV 2009 and both vehicles meet the requirements of the new ballistic protection level VR7. Due to their highly effective protective armor, the non-transparent body areas of the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 750Li High Security meet the requirements of the ballistic protection level VR9. Hence, both the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 750Li High Security provide optimum safety in the individual mobility segment in combination with unparalleled comfort of travel, superior drive technology and an abundance of innovative equipment features to guarantee confident motoring at all times.

The two BMW high security sedans set new standards in the protection of persons at risk while traveling in their vehicle. The unique security concept is based on findings, which BMW gained as a result of its determined development work, and on more than thirty years of experience in security vehicle engineering.

Banner Stands Have Many Uses in Trade Shows

Filed under: Uncategorized — admin @ 10:53 am

While banner stands are great for those businesses who have a limited budget, they are also an excellent way to add to your existing trade show display.  You can create a presence that is over the top, and certain to attract the attention of all who attend.  To be successful and gain potential new customers at these events, you should plan carefully ahead of time.

When you represent your company at the trade shows, you want to make certain that your brand is easily identified and that people take notice.  Of course, you always want to present your business in a professional manner as well. Banner stands offer you many options, from creating custom walls that are any size you need, whether small or large.  Or, choose a scrolling model and really demand attention!

Every detail should be considered when you attend these events.  You want the people who represent your company to be professional, friendly and to have a great attitude.  Display brochures, samples of your products and services, and even demonstrations when possible.  Your success depends not only on the exhibit you use; the entire package is what makes you stand out from the competition.

Banner stands are an excellent choice for those businesses who do not have a ton of money to spend but want an attention-grabbing display.  Use one, or use several to create a presence that is certain to catch the eye of everyone who passes.  Another great feature of this option is the ease of assembly and transport.  When you arrive at the show, you can have your display up in just minutes!  The quality and designs available today are unmatched.

No matter what your budget or needs, banner stands allow you to gain the attention you need to have a successful trade show.  You can tell potential customers who you are, and what you offer that makes you unique from the rest in one graphic display.  This is an affordable option, and great for both small and large businesses alike.  Use them on their own, as an addition to your other displays, or use several to create a unique, one-of-a-kind look.

Don’t let your budget dictate the success of your attendance at these events.  Gaining potential clients is something you must do, and skipping the trade shows will only be detrimental to the success of your business.  Banner stands are great for any company, no matter what size or budget!

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