17th 06 - 2010 | no comment »

Just a Few of the Perils of Cigarettes and Cigars

Smoking is depicted as the act of combusting, savouring and breathing in tobacco fumes. The vast majority of individuals affiliate the act of smoking with traditional cigars or cigarettes yet in that respect are additional products, some legal and others illegal that a person can smoke. Of course smoking is far from representing a modern tendency though the modern-day general media and film industries seem to have done their level best to make it appear trendy or fashionable to smoke. Historians tell us that the ancient Egyptians smoked tobacco as early as the 16th Century and the Mexican based Aztec civilizations still sooner. The Aztecs even had gods who are pictured as permitting themselves to be smoked by their people. The kick from smoking derives from nicotine, the compound naturally occurring in tobacco and which induces sensations of slight intoxication and giddiness. These euphoric type sensations are comprehended by a lot of individuals as being really relaxing. Nonetheless, smoking possesses risks and has been listed as one of the top five causes of death in people under sixty years of age in the U.S.A.

Nicotine

Nicotine is a chemical alkaloid that is found in several naturally growing plants, most notably the broad leaved tobacco plants. Nicotine is also found in some tea type plants as well as green peppers and tomato plants though in a good deal smaller densities. Nicotine itself is a powerful compound able to stimulate the human brain which is why smoking brings about slight dizziness.

The American Heart Association, which monitors wellbeing issues in America have stated that addiction to nicotine rates amongst the most arduous addictions to break.

Deaths

Figures show that every 12 months in the USA there are almost 500,000 deaths that are directly related to nicotine and smoking tobacco products. Many of these untimely deaths are a direct final result of lung cancer and additional associated health problems brought about by smoke from cigarettes and cigars. Smoking tobacco products can also cause a lowering in the bodies immune systems resulting in the patient becoming much more predisposed to additional conditions and illnesses may also lead to an early demise.

Passive Smoke

It’s no more any secret that smoking tobacco jeopardises other people who do not even smoke themselves but who chance to be in the same locality as individuals who are smoking. This is termed as secondhand smoke or side stream smoke. In modern edifices which feature air conditioner systems and fans, the air from any single portion of the construction may easily be transferred to all other sections of the building producing dangerous circumstances for non-smokers and smokers alike. This situation has been a part of the reasoning behind the recent pushing by a lot of governances to bring in new laws that forestall smoking in public places making it unlawful to smoke in such locals. This is coming about all over the world as more and more ruling bodies take on the obligation of protecting their populations.

Appetite Suppression

Smoking is known to lower an individual’s appetite. In that respect studies have been carried out which have disclosed that the nicotine absorbed from smoking tobacco nicotine in reality inhibits the appetite for carbohydrates. In third world nations where food shortfalls are common, this appetite suppression could lead to malnutrition as well as a number of other related conditions.

Jackie is the owner of

www.smokinghelper.com
a website which aims to provide help, information,

tips and advice to people who are trying to stop smoking and beat

nicotine addiction.

Stop smoking today and change your life forever!


15th 06 - 2010 | no comment »

The Cuban Economy: An Overview

The study of the economy of Cuba can be divided into four phases. The first phase consists of the occupation of the island by the Spanish, which led to the extinction of the aboriginals and the bringing of African slaves to work on the sugar plantations. At this point of time, Cuba provided for the highly profitable business of sugar cultivation and its exports. Sugar industry was the crux of Cuba’s economy and Cuba rose to become one of the largest producers of sugar in the world.


The second phase pertains to the years following the wars of independence against the Spanish and also the invasion of Cuba by the US. It is marked by the sweeping powers of intervention obtained by the US in 1902, with the Cuban economy being controlled by the growing investment of the US citizens in the sugar plantations of Cuba. Now, again, money and profits from the sugar plantation, sugar refineries and subsidiary sugar products such as rum went to the many American investors and a few Cuban elite. The other major industries also included tourism, tobacco, transportation, mining and the communication industry.


The third phase begins with the Cuban revolution and the beginning of Fidel Castro’s rule in the year 1959. All plantations that were more than 400 hectares became state owned and all industries including the petroleum and the telephones became nationalized. This lead to the US trade embargo towards Cuba. Cuba lost its traditional international market. However, Cuba found a trade and political ally in the USSR when the Cuban-sugar for Russian-oil package worked well. Cuba reoriented itself to the Russian and pro-Russian market and did over 80% of its international trade with them. The next 30 years saw tremendous improvement in health care, education and social welfare. Cuba boasts of a 97% literacy rate and the life expectancy increased to 76%. There was an egalitarian distribution of income and Cuba’s income inequality index became the lowest in the world.


All was well until 1989 when it became clear to Cuba that sooner or later Cuba would have to learn to do without any subsidies or trade relations with the USSR and the eastern European countries. The fourth phase begins here with the government dubbing it as the ‘Special Period in Peacetime’. The economic reforms include:


(i) the opening and gearing up of tourism as an industry

(ii) diversification of the agricultural sector by producing fruits and vegetables and rice along with live stock for local consumption that include the visiting tourists.

(iii) production of more of citrus food and less of sugar

(iv) focusing on that sector of fisheries which sent its fleets to nearby seas and exporting spiny lobsters to Japan

(v) State-owned lands have been converted to agricultural cooperatives that are managed to a certain degree by the workers. Retail outlets at a small scale have been allowed for the food market. In the field of food production, allowing the sale of excess production (which is above the state-fixed production quota) in the free market has brought down black markets, in addition to enhancing production

(vi) Foreign investments in various industries such as tourism, mining, telecommunication, construction and manufacturing sectors have been allowed

(vii) Self employment has been legalized for around 150 occupations.


Investment into biotechnology and pharmaceuticals during the third phase reaped returns when products of this industry were available for export now at the fourth phase.


The other Cuban industries include cement, steel, agricultural machinery and construction.


Fisheries, nickel and ore production, growing agricultural products such as fruits, tobacco are some areas that have shown growth in the export sector. Cuba now exports to European countries (50%), Canada and Latin America (20%), and Asia (20%).


Spain, France, and United Kingdom have invested in the tobacco and cigar production. Spain and Canada have invested in the exploration of oil off the shores of Cuba. Mexico, Canada, Australia, South-Africa, Netherlands, Brazil, and Chile are the other major countries that have invested in the various industries of Cuba.


Cuba has entered into an agreement with Venezuela whereby thousands of Cubans who are doctors, teachers and sports trainers, and engineers would move in to Venezuela to assist their development program in return for 53,000 barrels of oil per day being shipped to Cuba for the next five years.


“Energy revolution” where apart form changing the entire system of power generation and distribution, energy conservation is also aimed at, has been in vogue in Cuba for the last two years. The quality of life of the Cubans are improving with the volunteers of the government replacing on a door-to-door campaign, the existing electric stoves and lights with the ones that are more efficient and less energy consuming. Energy efficient refrigerators and television sets have been distributed and would be installed in all the thousands of housing units that the government is building. Energy efficient buses from China would soon be available for the Cuban public transport. It is just a matter of some time when power generation would take place at hundreds of units that are well synchronized, thus avoiding wastage of power while distributing it through very long distances. Generation of natural gas while exploring for oil at oil rigs is also considered.


Cuba has also legalized the US dollars. Further, the Venezuelan inputs for domestic oil production and upgradation of existing power stations have raised the level of optimism. Cuba is also hoping to find oil off its shores. Apart from the sugar industry and its related products, there are various industries such as tourism (also called the lung of the Cuban economy), fisheries, nickel and ore production, production of tobacco, Cuban cigar, citrus fruits, pharmaceuticals, coffee, besides basic manufacturing industries which have earned Cuba foreign exchange. Cuba has learned to manage its post-USSR economic condition and is steering towards a more prosperous economy.

Visit CubaChannel.com today for breaking news, regular news articles, blog, videos, forums, and information about the land, people, history, culture, government, political conditions, travel, business, and economy of Cuba at http://www.cubachannel.com


13th 06 - 2010 | no comment »

Put This in Your Pipe and Smoke it ? Top 5 Nicaraguan Cigars

Put This in Your Pipe and Smoke It – Top 5 Nicaraguan Cigars

Arnold Schwarzenegger. Tom Cruise. Mel Gibson. Harrison Ford. Sylvester Stallone.

 

What in the world do all of these high-octane megastars have in common? No, they’re not all starring in Mission: Testosterone, this summer’s most muscled blockbuster. But, they do share a unique bond. In fact, they share the same connection with such historically notable folks as Fidel Castro, W.C. Fields, and even King Edward VII.

 

How could kings, comedians, and revolutionary leaders have anything in common with the Terminator, Rambo, and Braveheart?

 

It’s simple: They all love a good cigar! No, actually, they all love a great cigar!

 

And, when it comes to great cigars, arguably there are none better today than those coming from rich soils and humid mountain hillsides of Nicaragua. Long having taken a backseat to the Cuban cigar-making dynasty, Nicaragua is making its mark on the international scene with the finest cigars found anywhere on the planet.

 

Just like its booming real estate market that has rebounded after natural disasters and political unrest to become one of the best places in the world to invest, the Nicaraguan cigar industry is benefiting and experiencing a renaissance as well. From the center of it cigar revolution in Esteli to Condega and all the way out to the Jalapa Valley, Nicaragua is home to the world’s best cigar makers, tobacco, and established and up-and-coming brands.

With so many great cigars to choose from, the problem for the cigar aficionado and the newbie alike becomes not “How can I find a good Nicaraguan cigar,” but where should I even start? To help you make your way through the jungle landscape of choice, let’s take a look at five all-time favorites.

 

5. Plasencia Organica Nesticos

 

Profile: small cigar, mild, but rich taste

 

Big things come in little packages! The world’s first 100% Certified Organic cigar, the Plasencia Organica Nesticos are pure handmade tobacco magic. These little cigars take advantage of Plansencia’s renowned three-year-aged, organically-grown Nicaraguan tobaccos and serve it up in a smoke-able size that allows you to enjoy big cigar flavor even when you don’t have a lot of time.

 

4. Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970, Robusto Grande.

Profile: strong, robust, earthy, woody, big, heavy-bodied…you get the idea, this cigar ain’t messing around!

 

This hefty all-Nicaraguan tobacco cigar was crafted to appeal to an American clientele who could no longer puff their favorite Havanas after the Cuban revolution. Let’s just call it like it is: The Robusto Grande is a big daddy of a cigar – both in size and flavor. There’s no getting around the fact that it packs a seriously rich blow with that characteristic Nicaraguan metallic twang. If you like your cigars to knock you out with a power-packed punch, this is your choice.

 

3. Felipe II Fat Boy

 

Profile: medium-bodied, earthy, spicy coffee bean aromas, roasted butter finish

 

Rated 90 by Cigar Aficionado, this ridiculously rich tasting cigar by Felipe Gregorio is definitely round and robust, but has a seamlessly smooth quality that makes it a definite contender. The Fat Boy’s small, but stocky size (3.5 x 55) gives it a definite “Don’t Mess with Me” attitude. When you’re feeling like a fine fatty at a reasonable rate, find yourself a Felipe II and get ready for a taste explosion.

 

2. Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series

 

Profile: medium to full-bodied, long finish, perfectly balanced.

 

If you want to feel like a celebrity, then you’ll want to take a pull on any cigar from the Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series. Made to celebrate their 30th anniversary, this line is crafted from only their best tobaccos and is often quite difficult to find. However, when you do get your hands on one, you’ll experience a masterful cigar from first spark to final ash tap. Despite the price, this is a must-have in your collection.

 

1. Perdomo Edición de Silvio

 

Profile: robust, delicate tones, perfection

 

This exquisite cigar is considered by many to be one of the best in the world bar none. With a secret blend of the finest tobaccos, this is the holy grail of cigars. And, although it is by far the most exclusive (read: expensive) cigar on my list, it’s not to be missed. So, when you start making huge profits with your Nicaraguan real estate investments, you can experience a little decadence with a Perdomo Edicion de Silvio.

 

As you can quickly see, the Nicaraguan cigar revolution is in full swing – a rich variety of flavors that is unmatched anywhere in the world. With its fascinating history, the Nicaraguan cigar story is one that can’t be missed. When you light up any of the above cigars, you’ll know that you’ve found a new favorite in Nicaragua.

 

Originally from San Diego, California, Scott Taylor is an extreme adventure-loving world traveler and international real estate expert and investor living and working in Panama City, Panama. With years of experience investing in countries around the globe, Scott has a particular affection for the land, people, and?of course?real estate of Nicaragua.www.LiveAndInvestInNicaragua.com


11th 06 - 2010 | no comment »

Are you getting the best annuity rates?

When purchasing an annuity you may be able to get the best annuity rates by considering if you qualify for enhancements.

Lifestyle Annuities

Lifestyle annuities take into account certain behavioral and environmental factors, as well as medical factors to determine if you have a reduced life expectancy. Any factor that may reduce life expectancy may be considered. These include smoking – 10 cigarettes, or the equivalent cigars or tobacco, a day for the last 10 years, obesity, high cholesterol, hypertension, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Enhanced Annuities

These pay out more than lifestyle but not as much a fully impaired annuity as they are designed for those with a reduced life expectancy but to a lesser degree than a fully impaired annuity.

Impaired Annuities

An impaired annuity pays an even higher income for those who have significantly lower life expectancy. The insurer will require a medical report from your doctor (no need for you to have a medical examination). Medical conditions such as; heart attacks, heart surgery or angina, life threatening cancers, major organ diseases e.g. liver or kidney and other life threatening illnesses such as Parkinson’s and strokes will be considered.

Examples of some of the conditions that may qualify

cancer heart conditions diabetes asthma obesity high blood pressure organ transplants stroke liver disease alzheimer’s chronic lung disease kidney disease multiple sclerosis Parkinson’s Disease or a disease of the central nervous system. It is estimated up to 40% qualify for enhanced annuities

If you can answer yes to any of the following questions you may be able to obtain a higher income:

Do you regularly smoke cigarettes?

Do you take regular medication?

Have you ever been hospitalised for a medical conditions

Based in the UK, AnnuitySupermarket provide independent Enhanced Annuities and Best Annuity Rates to clients nationwide. We help clients find the best quotes from the Open Market – Call us on 0800 043 0725


9th 06 - 2010 | no comment »

A Cigar For Every Man, Woman, And Occasion

Smoking a cigar is considered one of the symbols of class, royalty, and style. Whether you’re at a party or club, you will find lots of people smoking cigars. In the old days, they were a bit more expensive than other types of smoking. But people love their taste and freshness and prefer them over other vices. The cigar is one of the most widely used forms of socializing and relaxation today.

How is a cigar made? They are manufactured using dried and fermented tobacco. The tobacco used in the manufacturing of the cigars is grown in a significant quantity in the countries of Brazil, Cuba, Honduras, Mexico, Philippines and the Eastern United States. Everyone hears about Cuban Cigars, but the reality is that those are merely a small fraction of the popular cigars being smoked.  Although, it is believed that natives of the Caribbean started to smoke them in 10th century.

Back in the old days, each cigar was hand-made and manufactured by using fresh top quality tobacco leaves. During the manufacturing, humidity and numerous other things are kept in mind to keep its taste continuous. During the process, the tobacco leaves are provided with heat so that the water and sugar content can be dried up efficiently. The cigar was also only smoked by the people of elite class. But now everyone is smoking them. No doubt the cigar has changed the taste of smoking in a unique way. If compared to other types of smoking, its preferred globally.

Maintaining the quality, taste, and flavor of the tobacco leaves is usually the job of a top quality humidor. For more information on buying a quality cigar, you can search online as numerous suppliers and manufacturers have their own websites and discussion boards. They provide you detailed information about the cigars and even their history.
Then when you’re ready to make your purchase, you can also place your order online at any of the selected online stores by simply filling out an order form. Online stores offer you your favorite cigar at lower prices than your local stores.

Cigar smoking is now so popular that all types of people are smoking them, and for all occasions.? Just be sure to keep them fresh and to buy them at a reputable online website that has great low prices and discounts on Cigars.


11th 01 - 2010 | no comment »

Roasted Halves : A Real Treat for the Holidays or Any Occasion!

Usually around at the Christmas season a lot of individuals do a fair amount of festivity baking. Most often the recipes that will call for pecans create general trend to run out to the local supermarket and buy those pecans that come in a small bag. If you were to compare the taste of these prepackaged pecans to the roasted halves of pecans that you can find at Tannerspecan.com you will wonder why in the world you would ever settle for such an inferior taste of those in the bag.

If you really wanted to do a comparison of the difference all you would need to do is cook the same item half with these quality roasted halves and the other half of your recipe with the regular roasted pecans that you buy. This taste test will be a firm confirmation that the quality of the Tanners roasted halves are beyond question.

There are many things that you can do with the roasted halves in fact it would be well worth buying your roasted halves by the case. To begin with they are a great after dinner treat when you want something that isn’t too sweet but enough to just give the final touch to a great meal. They are great to have when company drops in unexpectedly and you would like to have a light snack sitting on the table for them to enjoy.

Then of course there is nothing better then to be able to take a tin of roasted halves with you to your social events. Perhaps to your weekly euchre games or even to your bowling team. Talking of which if you belong to a sports team and want to buy a small but very appreciative gift for your team members than the roasted halves variety of treats that you can find at Tannerspecan.com would be perfect. Not only would they be cost effective but they are really unique because of the quality. You are no doubt going to be a hit of the team when it comes to giving a great gift.

Once you have placed your order for your roasted halves chances s are you’re going to be attracted to many of the other wonderful treats that you are going to be able to find at this online store. You are going to find that there is a beautiful package of pecan pralines that are mouthwatering and tempting to just see from the picture alone. There are many gift baskets as well that are made up and ready to go for those gift items that you need to purchase that are for perhaps a family member.

Sometimes it’s nice to be able to give a gift without having to have any special reason to do so. Perhaps you have a friend that is a bit down and would get a real lift from something that would tell them that you’re thinking about them. One of the packages of the roasted halves from Tannerspecan.com would certainly be the perfect choice for this type of situation.

Roasted halves are roasted and lightly salted mammoth pecan halves packaged in our signature medium tin available at http://www.tannerspecan.comArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/roasted-halves-a-real-treat-for-the-holidays-or-any-occasion-1701255.html


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