All-Tex Exteriors is a preferred contractor for GAF/ELK. Whether you are located in Austin, TX or Houston, TX metro areas, All-Tex Exteriors can repair or replace your roof.
We use exclusively GAF/ELK products for a top quality roof and attractive appearance. With the GAF/ELK preferred contractor warranty, you are assured of many years of top performance and good looks.
Call All-Tex for more information: Austin 866-921-5718 or Houston 866-921-5715.
Monday, May 17, 2010
All-Tex Exteriors -GAF/ELK Preferred Contractor
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Improving Local Search Results
If you are a small business owner of a local shop or service business, this is a "must do"!
Google has a service called Google Places. Google Places is the Local Map advertising space that shows up at the top of your search results when you include a local term in your search.
By local term, I mean adding either the city and state or the zip code to your search terms. When you do that the map will usually show up.
If you have a Google Account, you could get yourself on the map for free but, it does take some time to do so. Plus, you may not know how to do keyword research on the internet to determine which keywords will result in the most new clients. Getting the maximum number of new clients is important, isn't it?
When you have an expert such as enLocal do the work for you it saves you time and gets more customers more quickly. This is because you'll probably need to tweak it for weeks to get the best results where as an expert that is trained in Search Engine Optimization can do it right the first time.
Time is Money, right? How about if you concentrate on closing more sales from all the new clients you will get and let the experts do the other stuff!
If you are in North East Harris County, TX, visit http://www.topofgooglelocal.
You'll be glad you did!
Google Side Wiki
I am enjoying the Google Toolbar and Side Wiki. I was previously very "anti-toolbar"! But, now I see several useful benefits.
Also, check out http://www.mattseo.com if you are interested in SEO topics. Search Engine Optimization, for those that don't know the acronym. SEO helps your website and blog get found on the internet. Matt Waterman has a good site on the topic. Check it out.
Love Crave Cupcakes!
We recently went here for the third time. We have never been disappointed. The cupcakes are awesome and are really fresh.
With the traffic levels they get, I would guess the cupcakes never make it to maybe an hour old.
Chocolate cake with chocolate icings is always my favorite. We have also had some incredible lemon ones too. I'm glad to see they are opening a West U location this summer.
This is a must try dessert experience!
Enjoyed it!
My wife and I recently were in the Uptown area of Houston and were looking for a place to eat. I use Yelp a lot to find places...I just drive to a location and turn on Yelp on my iPhone. It is a great tool.
So, we read the review of Ciao Bello and decided to check it out.
It's in a strip mall but once you enter the dark solid wood entry doors, you are entering a chic and fashionably upscale interior. The bar are is really attractive ad all the dining area is behind the bar. There is a patio dining area too.
Service was beyond what I was expecting. We had no less than 5 people attending to us when we sat down. A different person helped my wife and myself with our chair and our napkin!
Everything lived up to our immediate impression. Food was excellent and service remained excellent. Yelp had a 2 star rated price...it's not. Its' more like 3 stars. Dinner entrees starting in the mid teens and into the high $20 range. We spent about $80 without getting dessert...just dinner and a glass of wine each.
The food and experience is worth it though. Check it out.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Berripop in Humble
There is one of these that opened recently on 1960 in Humble. Going to definitely get out to this soon. I do miss the Kingwood TCBY that closed in 2008 but, they were kind of boring compared to Twist and now (Berripop from what I hear).
in reference to: Berripop Frozen Yogurt - Google Maps (view on Google Sidewiki)Twist is Awesome
We try to get out to Twist once a week. You can self serve and they charge by the ounce.
There is usually 6-8 different flavors and you can swirl some together or just mix from any of them. My favorite is the tart with chocolate or the tart with raspberry. There are about a dozen topping to choose from too! Enjoy!
Great Family of Restaurants
Our favorite Pappas restaurants are the Pappas Seafood Kitchen in Humble and the Pappadeux Cajun in the Champions Forest area.
One of my favorites at Pappas Seafood Kitchen is the Shimp and Jumbo Lump Crab salad along with a bowl of seafood gumbo. Delicious.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Discover How to Save up to 50% on Home Energy!
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Cut Energy Waste To The Bone, Go Green, And Lower Your Utility Bills By Up To 50%. Learn How To Apply Advanced Conservation Methods And Products To Your Existing Home.
Makes Solar, Wind, And Other Renewable Energy Systems Cost Half As Much!
How to Choose a Home Security System
Keeping your family and your assets protected from criminal activity
Protecting your family and all of the things that you have worked hard for is important to you. A home security system is almost a must in this day and age. There are several on the market but all are not the same. Choose the one that best fits your situation and gives the most features for your money.
Here are some of the top things to consider when purchasing a home security system.
Size of Your Home
Alarm systems have varying ranges especially if they are wireless. With a large home or one with lots of door and windows, a wired system might require a lot of holes to be drilled just to connect the system up.
Features Included with the System
The basic system will secure doors (and windows if applicable) so that you can feel safe. But, other things can happen that an alarm system can help with. Alarm keypads with fire, police and emergency buttons are coming standard with most alarm systems. Also, check to see if they offer carbon monoxide sensors, fire alarms and radon gas sensors for a start.
What Type of Motion Sensors You'll Need
The security system will be used when you are at home and away. Some activate the motion sensors at night. If you have small children that get up frequently to go to the bathroom or tiptoe to the kitchen for water, you don't want to scare the bejesus out of them with the alarm going off as soon as they step into the hall. Will the system include motion lighting outside?
How Many Keypads Should You Have?
Home security systems give you at least one keypad and most people place it near the door. If they offer a free second keypad, you can place it in the bedroom area of the house for quick access in an emergency. Ask about additional keypads.
What Type of Monitoring Does the Company Offer?
What is ideal is 24-hour monitoring from a central monitoring station. When the alarm sounds, they will call you immediately. They also call local authorities if you hit the fire, police or emergency buttons from the keypad. Is the monitoring station automated or are there live people on the other end? In an emergency you want live people.
Are you interested in a home security system? You'll get a discount on your homeowner policy for taking the initiative to secure your home, family and property. Choose wisely so you get the top of the line and not the bottom of the heap.
Protecting your family and all of the things that you have worked hard for is important to you. A home security system is almost a must in this day and age. There are several on the market but all are not the same. Choose the one that best fits your situation and gives the most features for your money.
Here are some of the top things to consider when purchasing a home security system.
Size of Your Home
Alarm systems have varying ranges especially if they are wireless. With a large home or one with lots of door and windows, a wired system might require a lot of holes to be drilled just to connect the system up.
Features Included with the System
The basic system will secure doors (and windows if applicable) so that you can feel safe. But, other things can happen that an alarm system can help with. Alarm keypads with fire, police and emergency buttons are coming standard with most alarm systems. Also, check to see if they offer carbon monoxide sensors, fire alarms and radon gas sensors for a start.
What Type of Motion Sensors You'll Need
The security system will be used when you are at home and away. Some activate the motion sensors at night. If you have small children that get up frequently to go to the bathroom or tiptoe to the kitchen for water, you don't want to scare the bejesus out of them with the alarm going off as soon as they step into the hall. Will the system include motion lighting outside?
How Many Keypads Should You Have?
Home security systems give you at least one keypad and most people place it near the door. If they offer a free second keypad, you can place it in the bedroom area of the house for quick access in an emergency. Ask about additional keypads.
What Type of Monitoring Does the Company Offer?
What is ideal is 24-hour monitoring from a central monitoring station. When the alarm sounds, they will call you immediately. They also call local authorities if you hit the fire, police or emergency buttons from the keypad. Is the monitoring station automated or are there live people on the other end? In an emergency you want live people.
Are you interested in a home security system? You'll get a discount on your homeowner policy for taking the initiative to secure your home, family and property. Choose wisely so you get the top of the line and not the bottom of the heap.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Safety Precautions Around ATM Machines
Tips for ATM Safety: Avoid Robbery
Automated Teller Machines come in all shapes, sizes and locations. The unique aspects of each installation, and crime considerations at each location can create dangerous situations and there is no guarantee of security for ATM customers.
The use of ATMs then is by itself dangerous and puts you at high risk for robbery. This is due to many factors such as:
Criminals select the unaware and unprepared ATM customers. They use conditions that enhance the opportunity to commit their crime. Your attitude and demeanor has a tremendous effect on potential assailants.
Here are a few tips I recommend:
There are many more common sense rules to follow to remain safe in public places. Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and evaluate conditions, location and lighting before you decide to use an ATM.
Automated Teller Machines come in all shapes, sizes and locations. The unique aspects of each installation, and crime considerations at each location can create dangerous situations and there is no guarantee of security for ATM customers.
The use of ATMs then is by itself dangerous and puts you at high risk for robbery. This is due to many factors such as:
- You are walking away with cash in hand - You're a target!
- There may be many hiding places (corners, landscape) nearby to conceal robbers.
- It may be late at night when you need cash.
- You may be in an unfamiliar area when you need cash.
Criminals select the unaware and unprepared ATM customers. They use conditions that enhance the opportunity to commit their crime. Your attitude and demeanor has a tremendous effect on potential assailants.
Here are a few tips I recommend:
- Use a drive-up ATM. Keep your doors locked and roll your window up immediately.
- Use the type of ATM with a foyer installed machine. These usually require your ATM card to open the door first.
- Use ATM machines in grocery stores.
- Get cash back at the grocery store instead of using an ATM - You may also avoid fees this way.
- Have a friend with you nearby when using ATM machines in questionable locations.
There are many more common sense rules to follow to remain safe in public places. Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and evaluate conditions, location and lighting before you decide to use an ATM.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Victim Avoidance Measures - Home Safety and Security
5 Theft Deterrents for Home and Property
One way not to be robbed or burgled is the use of theft deterrents. Theft deterrents are not necessarily things that you buy but techniques that you employ that make you and what you own undesirable targets for criminals. Here are five theft deterrents that may work for you.
There are a few things to know about criminals. Most are not like you see on movies like The Italian Job or Oceans 11. They will not pursue your belongings relentlessly that is, unless you have several million dollars in a fortress of a house or a casino you own. For the most part, they ferret out people who are unaware of them and have something about them that says, easy target.
1. Post alarm system signs in plain sight. Thieves are reluctant to hit houses with alarm system signs outside or alarm stickers on windows. It is too big a risk to try and break into that home even if the signs are decoys. There are easier targets without alarm systems.
2. Remove all visible items from your car. Just because your car is in the driveway doesn't mean a criminal won't go for it. When you get out at night, take all of your valuables inside. Don't leave laptops, GPS systems, keys, iPods or money in your car where it can be seen. If a thief can see it, they will go after it. By the time you hear the window break, they'll be long gone.
3. Lock your doors and windows. The first thing a burglar will do is check for the easy way in. Open windows or closed but unlocked windows are perfect entrances for thieves. Also, lock your garage door if it leads to the inside of your home. This advice extends to automobiles. Many people don't lock their cars in their driveways or carports. Always lock your car doors. A thief won't strike when you are awake and watching but they will when you are asleep and oblivious to the crime taking place.
4. Install outside motion lights. Even in the absence of an alarm system, anyone getting near the house will trigger the floodlights to shine and blind. A thief will run because they don't wish to be seen doing their dirty deeds. This is also an effective deterrent when you are away from home.
5. Panic buttons. Most car key fobs contain a red button that says PANIC. If you notice someone following you as you go to your car, push the button. Your car will light up like a Christmas tree and squeal loudly. People will look and the thief will look for someone else to target.
In order to avoid becoming the victim of a crime, you need to take measures and be aware of the habits you do that make you a target. Making yourself a hard target to strike is one of the best practices you can employ to avoid being the next victim.
One way not to be robbed or burgled is the use of theft deterrents. Theft deterrents are not necessarily things that you buy but techniques that you employ that make you and what you own undesirable targets for criminals. Here are five theft deterrents that may work for you.
There are a few things to know about criminals. Most are not like you see on movies like The Italian Job or Oceans 11. They will not pursue your belongings relentlessly that is, unless you have several million dollars in a fortress of a house or a casino you own. For the most part, they ferret out people who are unaware of them and have something about them that says, easy target.
1. Post alarm system signs in plain sight. Thieves are reluctant to hit houses with alarm system signs outside or alarm stickers on windows. It is too big a risk to try and break into that home even if the signs are decoys. There are easier targets without alarm systems.
2. Remove all visible items from your car. Just because your car is in the driveway doesn't mean a criminal won't go for it. When you get out at night, take all of your valuables inside. Don't leave laptops, GPS systems, keys, iPods or money in your car where it can be seen. If a thief can see it, they will go after it. By the time you hear the window break, they'll be long gone.
3. Lock your doors and windows. The first thing a burglar will do is check for the easy way in. Open windows or closed but unlocked windows are perfect entrances for thieves. Also, lock your garage door if it leads to the inside of your home. This advice extends to automobiles. Many people don't lock their cars in their driveways or carports. Always lock your car doors. A thief won't strike when you are awake and watching but they will when you are asleep and oblivious to the crime taking place.
4. Install outside motion lights. Even in the absence of an alarm system, anyone getting near the house will trigger the floodlights to shine and blind. A thief will run because they don't wish to be seen doing their dirty deeds. This is also an effective deterrent when you are away from home.
5. Panic buttons. Most car key fobs contain a red button that says PANIC. If you notice someone following you as you go to your car, push the button. Your car will light up like a Christmas tree and squeal loudly. People will look and the thief will look for someone else to target.
In order to avoid becoming the victim of a crime, you need to take measures and be aware of the habits you do that make you a target. Making yourself a hard target to strike is one of the best practices you can employ to avoid being the next victim.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Personal Safety and Defense Methods and products
5 Personal Safety Products
When you go out of your home, do you feel safe? What would make you feel safe from criminals who might try to victimize you? Here is a list of some of the most common personal safety products for you to consider if you want extra protection to feel safe.
The method of personal security you use is dictated by your environment. For instance, if you are a female truck driver, you are alone on the road most of the time. There are a number of situations you might encounter where you are vulnerable.
On the other hand, let's say you are a man who makes deliveries for a company. Your customers could live in some undesirable places or you could be making deliveries after dark. What would you need to defend yourself?
Personal safety products are used as deterrents to crime. Be careful not to think of them as offensive weapons. It is better to flee if you can than to challenge a criminal.
1. Pepper Spray - This is a popular little product. It goes without saying but don't spray into a headwind or you'll be the one getting an eye full of pepper spray. It can be used to keep attacking dogs away when you are out jogging. The stuff does hurt badly but you won't kill anyone. Even if you spray someone you felt was threatening you in error, they will get the message not to sneak up on you.
2. Taser - This product is controversial because of some deadly results. Although all of those situations involved police and suspects, know how to use this weapon properly. A taser allows you to deliver an incapacitating shock to your attacker without being too close to them.
3. Stun Gun - If you are attacked from behind or the assailant gets close to you, a stun gun will take them down. Even a big attacker will let go of you so you can get away.
4. Personal Alarms - All you have to do is push the button or pull the key and a loud sound will alert anyone in the area that something is wrong. Criminals don't like to draw attention to them so you can get away as they look around to see who is watching.
5. Batons - These can be used to fight off animals that threaten you. Some batons are retractable so they can fit in your purse or pocket. When you get ready to use it, just extend it out so you can hit an animal or person without them getting to close.
You'll notice no lethal weapons are mentioned in this article. They are a choice for trained individuals but unless you are trained, the danger is as much to you as to the assailant. The above personal security products will help you get away from danger.
When you go out of your home, do you feel safe? What would make you feel safe from criminals who might try to victimize you? Here is a list of some of the most common personal safety products for you to consider if you want extra protection to feel safe.
The method of personal security you use is dictated by your environment. For instance, if you are a female truck driver, you are alone on the road most of the time. There are a number of situations you might encounter where you are vulnerable.
On the other hand, let's say you are a man who makes deliveries for a company. Your customers could live in some undesirable places or you could be making deliveries after dark. What would you need to defend yourself?
Personal safety products are used as deterrents to crime. Be careful not to think of them as offensive weapons. It is better to flee if you can than to challenge a criminal.
1. Pepper Spray - This is a popular little product. It goes without saying but don't spray into a headwind or you'll be the one getting an eye full of pepper spray. It can be used to keep attacking dogs away when you are out jogging. The stuff does hurt badly but you won't kill anyone. Even if you spray someone you felt was threatening you in error, they will get the message not to sneak up on you.
2. Taser - This product is controversial because of some deadly results. Although all of those situations involved police and suspects, know how to use this weapon properly. A taser allows you to deliver an incapacitating shock to your attacker without being too close to them.
3. Stun Gun - If you are attacked from behind or the assailant gets close to you, a stun gun will take them down. Even a big attacker will let go of you so you can get away.
4. Personal Alarms - All you have to do is push the button or pull the key and a loud sound will alert anyone in the area that something is wrong. Criminals don't like to draw attention to them so you can get away as they look around to see who is watching.
5. Batons - These can be used to fight off animals that threaten you. Some batons are retractable so they can fit in your purse or pocket. When you get ready to use it, just extend it out so you can hit an animal or person without them getting to close.
You'll notice no lethal weapons are mentioned in this article. They are a choice for trained individuals but unless you are trained, the danger is as much to you as to the assailant. The above personal security products will help you get away from danger.
5 Tips for Surviving a Home Invasion
Remaining Safe and un-harmed during a Home Invasion Requires Education
Having your home burglarized is a scary thought. Even worse than that is becoming the victim of a home invasion. If you are ever in this situation, here are some tips that will hopefully bring a more favorable outcome.
First of all, remember that things in real life are not like the movies. If you've ever seen a movie involving home invasions, making bombs out of lard and baking powder isn't something you'll have time or know how to do. Invaders won't come in with machine guns or grenades but they will intimidate to you and your family.
1. Have a home invasion plan. We all have a fire escape plan (hopefully youdo!) for our families. A home invasion plan is similar to that. Have a way of escape for each room in the house in case someone breaks in. use a code word that anyone can shout to trigger your mass exodus from the house. Practice it with everyone there and when there are only a few of you in the home.
2. Try not to panic. In these situations, the adrenaline starts pumping through your system triggering the fight-or-flight response. Remaining calm is easier said than done, but keep your mind thinking at all times. Practicing your home invasion plan will help with staying calm. If you are not in the direct line of the invaders, escape from the house if you can or find a secure location to call the police.
3. Your family is more important than property. This goes without saying, but some people will try to make a stand on principle to save their families. Know this: Home invaders are there to take what you have and harm you if necessary. Some will harm you anyway. You can never know for sure what such a criminal will do. Make every effort to get out as soon as possible and not confront them.
4. If you have a weapon in the house, know how to use it. More often than not, home owners have been injured or killed with their own weapons. Most home invaders will come armed. Any weapons for you to use work best when they are within reach. Donít try to make it from the living room to the bedroom to get your gun if you can easily escape through a window or door. Keep bats, tasers, etc. in concealed places where any family member can find them if the opportunity arises for them to use it. And, practice with them so you know how to defend yourself with them if you need to.
5. Use your security system. Most people have one because it lowers their home insurance premiums but it is more effective as a deterrent. Arm your system when you are home as well as when you are not. Utilize motion sensors on floodlights and timers on lights when you are away from home. Be sure that you choose an alarm company with 24-hour monitoring and you test the system periodically to make sure it works properly.
Home invasions are very real. I certainly hope you will never become a victim, but knowing how to handle one can save your life.
Having your home burglarized is a scary thought. Even worse than that is becoming the victim of a home invasion. If you are ever in this situation, here are some tips that will hopefully bring a more favorable outcome.
First of all, remember that things in real life are not like the movies. If you've ever seen a movie involving home invasions, making bombs out of lard and baking powder isn't something you'll have time or know how to do. Invaders won't come in with machine guns or grenades but they will intimidate to you and your family.
1. Have a home invasion plan. We all have a fire escape plan (hopefully youdo!) for our families. A home invasion plan is similar to that. Have a way of escape for each room in the house in case someone breaks in. use a code word that anyone can shout to trigger your mass exodus from the house. Practice it with everyone there and when there are only a few of you in the home.
2. Try not to panic. In these situations, the adrenaline starts pumping through your system triggering the fight-or-flight response. Remaining calm is easier said than done, but keep your mind thinking at all times. Practicing your home invasion plan will help with staying calm. If you are not in the direct line of the invaders, escape from the house if you can or find a secure location to call the police.
3. Your family is more important than property. This goes without saying, but some people will try to make a stand on principle to save their families. Know this: Home invaders are there to take what you have and harm you if necessary. Some will harm you anyway. You can never know for sure what such a criminal will do. Make every effort to get out as soon as possible and not confront them.
4. If you have a weapon in the house, know how to use it. More often than not, home owners have been injured or killed with their own weapons. Most home invaders will come armed. Any weapons for you to use work best when they are within reach. Donít try to make it from the living room to the bedroom to get your gun if you can easily escape through a window or door. Keep bats, tasers, etc. in concealed places where any family member can find them if the opportunity arises for them to use it. And, practice with them so you know how to defend yourself with them if you need to.
5. Use your security system. Most people have one because it lowers their home insurance premiums but it is more effective as a deterrent. Arm your system when you are home as well as when you are not. Utilize motion sensors on floodlights and timers on lights when you are away from home. Be sure that you choose an alarm company with 24-hour monitoring and you test the system periodically to make sure it works properly.
Home invasions are very real. I certainly hope you will never become a victim, but knowing how to handle one can save your life.
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