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	<title>Oil prices Info</title>
	<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com</link>
	<description>Oil prices Info</description>
	<language>en</language>
	<category>Oil+prices</category>
	<category>Oil</category>
	<category>prices</category>
	<item>
		<title>Driving On Wet Roads</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Driving_On_Wet_Roads/Info/166809</link>
		<category>Driving+On+Wet+Roads</category>
		<category>Driving</category>
		<category>Roads</category>
		<category>prices</category>
		<category>On</category>
		<category>Wet</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Driving_On_Wet_Roads/Info/166809</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Summer may be coming soon however there is still a chance of having rain. In fact, rain could fall anytime without your knowing. And sometimes, light rain could turn into a torrential downpour that could leave you cold and miserable while driving on ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P><br />
Summer may be coming soon however there is still a chance of having rain. In fact, rain could fall anytime without your knowing. And sometimes, light rain could turn into a torrential downpour that could leave you cold and miserable while driving on some highway. <br />
<br />
Rain also is one of the causes of many road accidents. This is mostly because of the road and driving conditions. </P><P>The roads become slippery. And oftentimes, the rain blurs the visibility of the driver. <br />
<br />
After a long dry season and the rain starts to fall, be very careful if you are caught on the road. Engine oil and grease has built up on the road during the dry season. Now when these are mixed with the water from rain, it can make the road extremely slick and slippery. </P><P><br />
<br />
When it is starting to rain and you have to travel somewhere, make sure that you start driving with a little time allowance. This is because you would not want to start speeding through the roads in the rain. Also, if you need to brake, make sure that you do it with less force. Sudden or strong braking could lead you to skid and you know what else happens after that. <br />
<br />
If the rain is pouring harder than you thought it would be and you observe that your visibility is lessened because of the downpour, do not hesitate to turn on your headlights. </P><P>Added lights could actually help you see the road better and these also assist other motorists to know that you are on the road also. However, do not try to be brave and drive through a great downpour when you simply cannot see the road. Pull over and wait for the rain to subside. There is no harm in doing that. In fact, it could save not only your life but other lives as well. </P><P><br />
<br />
Headlights and fog lights could assist you greatly as you trudge through rain. If there is a need for such items, <a href="http://www.carpartsone.com/">Volvo Parts and Used Volvo Parts</a> is one of the trusted auto parts stores by car owners around the globe. In fact, it is also quite famous for its collection of <a href="http://www.carpartsone.com/auto-body-parts/volvo-960-parts.html">Volvo  960 parts</a> that are quality made and very durable. <br />
<br />
. </P>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Ascent Scientific commits to cutting-edge manufacturing systems to maintain supply of exceptionally high quality, Low-Cost Ligands&amp;#8482;</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Ascent_Scientific_commits_to_cutting-edge_manufacturing_systems_to_maintain_supply_of_exceptionally_high_quality%2C_Low-Cost_Ligands%26%238482%3B/Info/135784</link>
		<category>Oil+prices</category>
		<category>maintain</category>
		<category>Scientific</category>
		<category>Low-Cost</category>
		<category>manufacturing</category>
		<category>supply</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Ascent_Scientific_commits_to_cutting-edge_manufacturing_systems_to_maintain_supply_of_exceptionally_high_quality%2C_Low-Cost_Ligands%26%238482%3B/Info/135784</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Bristol, UK (ContentDesk) November 18, 2005 -- Ascent Scientific (www.ascentscientific.com) announced today its commitment to cutting-edge lean manufacturing techniques to further strengthen productivity, and ensure supply of the high quality, Low-Cost ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>Bristol, UK (ContentDesk) November 18, 2005 -- Ascent Scientific (<a href="http://www.ascentscientific.com" title="www.ascentscientific.com" target="_blank">www.ascentscientific.com</a>) announced today its commitment to cutting-edge lean manufacturing techniques to further strengthen productivity, and ensure supply of the high quality, Low-Cost Ligand" range.Ascent Scientific has adopted the lean manufacturing and 5S systems, originating from Japan, to further increase efficiency and productivity.Operations Director Mark King, who has brought 5S and other lean manufacturing techniques to manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies around the UK and Europe commented: These systems enable us to improve productivity, quality and efficiency, whilst reducing our costs. This means that we can continue to offer and expand our range of exceptionally high quality receptor ligands at prices so low that as many researchers as possible will be able to afford them.Dr. Steve Roome, Commercial Director added: Many customers ask us how we are able to offer such high quality receptor ligands, at such low prices. By utilising innovative techniques such as the 5S and Lean manufacturing systems, and combining this with our decades of synthetic chemistry experience (gained in diverse settings such as Tocris Bioscience and GE Healthcare) we can ensure that we offer superior quality ligands, at ultra-low prices. Contact: Steve Roome, Commercial Director +44 (0)1934 624 695About Ascent ScientificAscent Scientific provides high quality receptor ligands, synthetic chemistry, research, consultancy and analytical services for life science, pharmaceutical and chemistry-related industries. The Low-Cost Ligand range includes:- AMN082: the first selective mGlu7 agonist- L-AP4: selective group III mGlu agonist- (S)-3,4 DCPG: Potent selective mGlu8a agonist - (S)-3,5-DHPG: Selective group 1 mGlu agonist - MPEP: mGlu5 selective antagonist - D-AP5: Potent selective NMDA antagonist - Quisqualic acid: glutamate agonist- PPADS: purinergic agonistAbout 5S and Lean ManufacturingThe foundation of lean manufacturing and the 5S system is to work smarter not harder. </P><P>The 5S system as a whole creates a workspace that allows for minimized waste. Benefits include: improved profitability, efficiency, quality and safety. Further details about 5S and Lean Manufacturing, and consultancy service offered by Ascent Scientific.. </P>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Discount Vertical Blinds ? How To Shop For The Best Blinds On A Budget</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Discount_Vertical_Blinds_%96_How_To_Shop_For_The_Best_Blinds_On_A_Budget/Info/179905</link>
		<category>Oil</category>
		<category>How</category>
		<category>For</category>
		<category>Budget</category>
		<category>Best</category>
		<category>Vertical</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Discount_Vertical_Blinds_%96_How_To_Shop_For_The_Best_Blinds_On_A_Budget/Info/179905</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It's not hard to find discount vertical blinds. You just have to know the right places to buy blinds when you want to stick to your budget. Even though you don't have a lot of money to spend, it is no good to buy cheap blinds that are not going to last. ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>It's not hard to find discount vertical blinds. You just have to know the right places to buy blinds when you want to stick to your budget. Even though you don't have a lot of money to spend, it is no good to buy cheap blinds that are not going to last. What you need to do is buy the top brand names of blinds at a discount. Vertical blinds are available from all the leading manufacturers. </P><P>You can wait until they have a sale to get the discount price on faux wood blinds or you can start your search for discount vertical blinds on the Internet. <br />
<br />
First of all, you do need to have some idea of what you are looking for in window blinds. Vertical blinds look good in all windows and cheap faux wood blinds look elegant in a living room or bedroom. If you want to have blinds in a bathroom or kitchen, the faux wood blinds are what you will need because of the humidity. This is your first tip on getting discount vertical blinds. </P><P>Now that you know you want faux wood blinds, you have a starting point to help you get the budget blinds that you need. You can also narrow down your choices to fabric vertical blinds, if that is what you want.<br />
<br />
When you enter "discount vertical blinds" into your search engine, you will get thousands of results. It will take time to go through all the online retailers of cheap faux wood blinds to get the ones you need. You shouldn't stop searching once you find a site that has what you need in budget blinds in the color and sizes that you want. A little extra time comparing the prices may help save you money. </P><P>There are online stores that have not ranked highly in the search engines that may actually offer a better discount than the first catalog of vertical blinds that you browsed.<br />
<br />
In order to know whether you are actually getting discount vertical blinds by searching online, you do need to have some idea of the retail price of the blinds in a regular store. You don't have to go shopping to find this information because a simple telephone call will tell you what you need to know. Simply call a store and ask the price of cheap faux wood blinds in a specific size. Then you have a price that you can use for comparison purposes when you view the prices of the budget blinds online.<br />
<br />
When you do find the discount vertical blinds at a price that fits within your budget, you do have to include the cost of shipping. Some retailers may forego charging you any shipping costs, if you place a large order. </P><P>This is another way you can save money. If you have two or three friends that want to order blinds, then you can combine them all in one order and save money. Whatever you are looking for in discount vertical blinds, you will find what you need in top brand names when you shop online. <br />
. </P>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>After The Sale</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/After_The_Sale/Info/19832</link>
		<category>prices</category>
		<category>Sale</category>
		<category>After</category>
		<category>Oil+prices</category>
		<category>After+The+Sale</category>
		<category>The</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/After_The_Sale/Info/19832</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Enjoy your car... that's simple huh? Well it's not really that simple. Here is a list of things to think about after the sale.	Notify your insurance agent about the new car. 	Read the entire owners manual. Familiarize yourself with the service requirements. ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>Enjoy your car... that's simple huh? Well it's not really that simple. Here is a list of things to think about after the sale.<ul>	<li>Notify your insurance agent about the new car. 	<li>Read the entire owners manual. Familiarize yourself with the service requirements. </P><P>Understand when you need to change oil, filters, and other major things like timing belt and driveline fluids.	<li>Get used to operating the heating/AC controls and the radio so you do not have to fumble around and risk an accident while on the highway.	<li>Pop the hood and find the oil filler cap, the oil dipstick. If you bought a car with an automotive transmission there will be a dipstick for the transmission fluid also.	<li>Find the spare tire and jack. Make sure you know where to jack the car when changing a tire and how to remove the spare when you need it. There is nothing worse than getting a flat tire in a new car and having to struggle to change it the first time.	<li>Accessorize! It's your car and it should make a statement about you. There are plenty of aftermarket items to make your new car unique like yourself. </P><P>Wheels, bug guards, window visors and more are all available at part houses like CarParts.com</ul>. </P>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>At-Home Mother of Two Starts Online Clothing Business</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/At-Home_Mother_of_Two_Starts_Online_Clothing_Business/Info/145919</link>
		<category>Mother</category>
		<category>At-Home+Mother+of+Two+Starts+Online+Clothing+Business</category>
		<category>prices</category>
		<category>of</category>
		<category>Starts</category>
		<category>Oil+prices</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/At-Home_Mother_of_Two_Starts_Online_Clothing_Business/Info/145919</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[(ContentDesk) January 22, 2006 -- Ask any woman whos had a baby and theyll tell you it is the most rewarding experience of their lives.  But theyll also tell you that after months and months of spending your entire day with an infant, you begin to feel ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>(ContentDesk) January 22, 2006 -- Ask any woman whos had a baby and theyll tell you it is the most rewarding experience of their lives.  But theyll also tell you that after months and months of spending your entire day with an infant, you begin to feel as though you are losing touch with the adult world; especially if you are accustomed to a fast-paced work life.That was the case for Agata Langer, a former English Teacher and translator.  My children are 20 months apart, says Mrs. Langer.  They are now 27 months and 7 months old. </P><P> So Ive basically been cut off from the working world and adults for more than two years.  She continues:  After that much time without regular adult interaction, you begin to feel as though you are losing your edge and you feel as though your intellect is slipping away from a lack of use.  When you spend every waking moment of every day with your kids, the quantity of time you spend with them actually diminishes the quality of the time you get to share with them,  she says.I felt as though I needed to channel some of my energy into a project to keep my mind sharp and to help improve the quality of time I spent with my family.  As I pondered what project I would undertake, I drew upon my recent experience as a mother, she said.Like any Mom, I always tried to find good quality clothing for my children without spending a fortune, especially since they grow out of them after a few short months.  It seemed like a perfect idea:  Bring high quality, low priced childrens clothing to people though an online shopping experience.Mrs. Langer spent the next several months developing a website and locating suppliers.  Soon, <a href="http://www.bestdressedtot.com" title="www.bestdressedtot.com" target="_blank">www.bestdressedtot.com</a> became a reality. </P><P> Our random sampling of Best Dressed Tots inventory revealed name brands such as OshKosh, Carters and Reebok at impressively low prices.Eliminating the physical retail location; the rent, the insurance, the utility bills, etc allows me to keep my prices low, she says.  I am proud to offer good products to people at prices they can afford.  This is a small business and I run it myself.  I treat my clients like a close circle of friends instead of like customers.  I wouldnt sell anything to them that I wouldnt put on my own children, she says.She closes by saying:  The experience has been terrific. </P><P> I enjoy what Ive been able to do for my customers.  Also, facing the challenges of starting a business has kept my mind sharp and the time Ive devoted to the business helped to improve the quality of time I get to spend with my children.  Its something I would recommend to any at-home Mom who wants to keep her senses sharp and improve the quality of time she spends with her kids.You may view the results of Mrs. Langer's work at <a href="http://www.bestdressedtot.com" title="www.bestdressedtot.com" target="_blank">www.bestdressedtot.com</a>. </P>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>5 Easy Ways to Lower Blood Pressure Using 1 Great Fruit</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/5_Easy_Ways_to_Lower_Blood_Pressure_Using_1_Great_Fruit/Info/170287</link>
		<category>Fruit</category>
		<category>1</category>
		<category>Pressure</category>
		<category>Lower</category>
		<category>5+Easy+Ways+to+Lower+Blood+Pressure+Using+1+Great+Fruit</category>
		<category>to</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/5_Easy_Ways_to_Lower_Blood_Pressure_Using_1_Great_Fruit/Info/170287</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Copyright 2006 Frank Mangano

Have you had your lycopene today? If you ate a green salad with fresh chopped tomatoes, then you not only got a healthy dose of this powerful antioxidant, but you have also taken significant action toward lowering your blood ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>Copyright 2006 Frank Mangano<br />
<br />
Have you had your lycopene today? If you ate a green salad with fresh chopped tomatoes, then you not only got a healthy dose of this powerful antioxidant, but you have also taken significant action toward lowering your blood pressure. A recent double-blind study conducted in Israel has confirmed what hearth-healthy Italians have enjoyed for centuries ? tomatoes (and tomato sauce) lower blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.<br />
<br />
The Israeli study was led up by Dr. Esther Paran, head of the hypertension division of Soroka Medical Center. It involved patients who were already being treated for hypertension, but were not responding well to the medications. Dr. </P><P>Paran had patients take a supplement of tomato extract. The results were a significant drop in blood pressure after just four weeks.<br />
<br />
Tomatoes are so effective at lowering blood pressure because they contain lycopene. This potent antioxidant is even the focus of some hybrid tomatoes grown by the Israeli company, Lycomato, in order to have higher concentrations of lycopene in each piece of fruit. Other antioxidants found in tomatoes make this one super-food in the prevention of heart disease. It can even help keep LDL cholesterol from oxidizing which makes it stick to the arteries and narrow the passage way causing blood pressure to increase.<br />
<br />
Even during the peak growing season it can be difficult to consume four whole tomatoes each day, which is the recommended amount for having a positive impact on blood pressure. </P><P>Here are some ways to get the benefits of tomatoes without having to eat them straight off the vine.<br />
<br />
1. Make Chili. Using tomato puree, which is a concentrated form of tomatoes, as the base for your chili utilizes the antioxidants without the bulk of a whole tomato. Add some ultra-lean and high protein ground bison and kidney beans with minced garlic and onions, and cayenne pepper and you have a heart-healthy main course and a full day's allowance of tomato.<br />
<br />
2. Since using olive oil with the tomatoes enhances the curative quality, make your pasta sauce red with tomatoes, tomato paste and olive oil to saut? the garlic and onion. </P><P>Tomato paste used in making sauce contains more than 10 times the nutrients of a single tomato.<br />
<br />
3. Have a fresh salad as a side dish to either of these entrees and cut one whole tomato on top. You'll get one-quarter of you tomato intake right there.<br />
<br />
4. Drink tomato juice. It is better to make your own fresh juice so that you can control the sodium. </P><P>Store bought juices can be high in sugar and sodium-based preservatives. If you have a juicer, you can make some incredible veggie juices to suit your own tastes by adding carrots, celery and some low-sodium seasonings.<br />
<br />
5. Take a tomato supplement. If you just can't stomach tomatoes, then a 200 mg supplement provides the equivalent of more than the recommended four tomatoes.<br />
<br />
Adding tomatoes to your diet can reduce systolic blood pressure by 10 points and diastolic pressure by 4 points as was evident in the Israel study. Whatever way you slice it, tomatoes will keep strengthen your immune system and lower blood pressure.<br />
. </P>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Holding Home Construction Prices Steady is United-Bilt&#039;s Main Objective</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/</link>
		<category>Holding+Home+Construction+Prices+Steady+is+United-Bilt%26%23039%3Bs+Main+Objective</category>
		<category>Prices</category>
		<category>Construction</category>
		<category>Oil</category>
		<category>Steady</category>
		<category>Objective</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Arkansas (ContentDesk) July 28, 2006 -- Construction industry experts say residential construction costs have been at a record level for the past seven years. Long established builders, though, have an edge in the market place. According to Allisha Watkins, ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>Arkansas (ContentDesk) July 28, 2006 -- Construction industry experts say residential construction costs have been at a record level for the past seven years. Long established builders, though, have an edge in the market place. According to Allisha Watkins, Marketing and Advertising Coordinator for United-Bilt Homes. " Owning a lumberyard is effective in keeping prices steady because of the quantity and quality of the building materials <a href="http://www.ubh.com" title="www.ubh.com" target="_blank">www.ubh.com</a>  they use in constructing their custom designed homes and of their ability to buy materials in bulk directly from supplier warehouses.Also  in-house services sets them apart from the average residential homebuilders and allows them to continue passing their savings onto the consumer. <a href="http://www.ubh.com" title="www.ubh.com" target="_blank">www.ubh.com</a>United Bilt Homes has been a leader in the home building industry since 1958, specializing in on-your-land construction of new homes. </P><P>They own and operate their own lumberyard, which supplies building projects, including engineered trusses custom designed for every home. Additionally, they are known for being able to offer all the services needed to build a new home from the ground up. These services include design, financing, construction and even insurance."Costs for building material have increased much faster than overall inflation in recent years," said Michael Carliner, economist with The National Association of Home Builders. "The devastation of the 2005 hurricanes created new pressures on materials, putting residential construction costs at record levels."The volume of construction activity, cost pressure on materials associated with global demand and the availability of skilled labor are the primary elements driving the cost escalation in the domestic construction market, according to Karl F. Almstead, the Turner vice president responsible for the Cost Indexing. </P><P> He continues, Concerns over energy costs remain in the background, along with questions of the impact and timing of rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina.Likewise, industry experts agree consumers who are looking to build a new home have an advantage when they work with builders that have their own in-house resources. Watkins summed it up, "We are glad to be a part of the solution that allows consumers to build their dream home, despite rising costs. Our motto at United-Bilt Homes is that we are 'more than a builder.' We prove this to our customers on each new home we build as we use our buying power and vertical integration to pass along savings to our customers." For more information, contact United-Bilt Homes (800) 585-5759 or visit <a href="http://www.ubh.com" title="www.ubh.com" target="_blank">www.ubh.com</a>.. </P>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Choosing the right Baby Powder</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Choosing_the_right_Baby_Powder/Info/152949</link>
		<category>Choosing</category>
		<category>right</category>
		<category>Baby</category>
		<category>Oil</category>
		<category>Choosing+the+right+Baby+Powder</category>
		<category>Powder</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Choosing_the_right_Baby_Powder/Info/152949</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Baby Powders are used for protection of tender baby skin. The powder is sprinkled on the babies, to absorb excess moisture keeping skin dry and to provide smooth surface so as to avoid nappy rash. 

There are so many products available both in corporate ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>Baby Powders are used for protection of tender baby skin. The powder is sprinkled on the babies, to absorb excess moisture keeping skin dry and to provide smooth surface so as to avoid nappy rash. <br />
<br />
There are so many products available both in corporate and private label brands from product. There are companies expertise in making <br />
<a href="http://www.asiantradelinkindia.com">Talcum Powder</a> for babies, men & ladies. The raw talc is sourced from the finest quality of mining of Rajasthan (State in India). </P><P>Talc is a low price product and abundant resource in India. The raw talc is then sterilised at in-house sterilisation facility and sent for the complete conversion for finished consumer packing factory. <br />
<br />
The other ingredients in talcum powder comprises of Perfume, Calcium Carbonate, Zinc Stearate. The talc is available in whiteness units from 91 to 96. <br />
<br />
The products of baby powder are available in containers / plastic bottles ranging from 50 gms., 60 gms. </P><P>(2  Oz.), 100 gms, 125 gms. (4 Oz.), 200 gms., 400 gms, & 625 gms (22 Oz.). The baby powder containers & ingredients are fully sterilised with  zero fungal and microbial counts.<br />
 <br />
There are following baby powders available in the market: -<br />
<br />
1. Talc - Free powder: Especially for babies which is made with Maize Starch blended with Kaolin & Calcium Carbonate.<br />
<br />
2. Anti-fungal Powders: With Clotrimazole Anti-Fungal / Anti-Bacterial Agents.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.asiantradelinkindia.com">Baby Powder</a> product has to produce in compliance of WHO & GMP Norms of Manufacturing Practice undergoing thorough Quality Control & Analysis standards. </P><P>Because it is important to have the fungal & microbial counts within limits of Cosmetic products regulation of any country.  <br />
<br />
Usually Baby Powders are available with Powder Puff Cases. Generally, during dusting, excess amount of powder is sprinkled if not handled properly. To avoid that, powder puffs are used so as to enable proper application or rubbing. In most of the countries baby powder is applied after every Nappy/Diaper Change.<br />
 <br />
The perfume is recommended to have lower dosages in comparison to any other men's or ladies' body talc, because the higher content of perfume may cause nostril irritation to Babies.<br />
<br />
India has become one of the leading countries for outsourcing of finished Baby <a href="http://www.asiantradelinkindia.com">Talc Powders</a>. </P><P>Because of its abundant natural resource, economic labor & new-age quality controls, the Exports of Baby Powder from India is increasing day by day. The Production in India is in accordance to Indian FDA standards.<br />
<br />
Super Fine Talc used in Baby Powders provides better spreadability & smoothness. Most of the Baby Powders today are also enriched with Vitamin E or Almond Oil or Olive Oil, for extra skin nourishment. <br />
It is advisable to apply Baby Powder on clean & dry Skin so as to prevent formation of powder smudges. <br />
For more information on <a href="http://www.asiantradelinkindia.com">Baby Care Products</a> please visit: <a href="http://www.asiantradelinkindia.com">http://www.asiantradelinkindia.com/consumer_goods_home.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
. </P>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Buyers Drive The Process Online But The Lowest Price Isn&#039;t All They Want</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Buyers_Drive_The_Process_Online_But_The_Lowest_Price_Isn%26%2339%3Bt_All_They_Want/Info/64708</link>
		<category>Buyers+Drive+The+Process+Online+But+The+Lowest+Price+Isn%26%23039%3Bt+All+They+Want</category>
		<category>Lowest</category>
		<category>Buyers</category>
		<category>All</category>
		<category>They</category>
		<category>Online</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Buyers_Drive_The_Process_Online_But_The_Lowest_Price_Isn%26%2339%3Bt_All_They_Want/Info/64708</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Online buyers' ability to comparison shop -- aided by a vast array of shopping bots -- has turned traditional retailing on its head. But are low prices all customers want? No way! Some web-wise merchants have responded to the Internet's new retail rules ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>Online buyers' ability to comparison shop -- aided by a vast array of shopping bots -- has turned traditional retailing on its head. But are low prices all customers want? No way! Some web-wise merchants have responded to the Internet's new retail rules retailers by including comparison shopping on their own sites, others put their heads in the sand. Leading the list of slow to get online retailers is Home Depot who, according to the Aug 16 issue of Fortune, recently issued "a Godfather-esque" directive to its suppliers selling goods online. The gist of it was stop selling online or you won't be selling to us."Dear Vendor," the May 19 letter began, "It is important for you to be aware of Home Depot's current position on its'(sic) vendors competing with the company via e-commerce direct to consumer distribution. We think it is short-sighted for vendors to ignore the added value that our retail stores contribute to the sale of their products....We recognize that a vendor has the right to sell through whatever distribution channels it desires. </P><P>However, we too have the right to be selective in the vendors we select and we trust that you can understand that a company may be hesitant to do business with its competitors."What Home Depot really is worried about is its customers going straight to the manufacturer and bypassing Home Depot.Going head to head with Home Depot won't be simple for any company. Stanley Tools, for one, has scrapped its e-commerce plans in the face of Home Depot's threat. After all, Home Depot is one of the "category killers" who put thousands of mom and pop hardware stores out of business."Who's to say," Fortune reporter Katrina Brooker muses, "that it can't do the same to pesky suppliers with dot.com dreams?" Web shoppers, that's who!Several factors come into play: oOnline shopping does not provide instant gratification. Sometimes, all a customer wants is to buy something and use it right now oPeople are still willing to pay more for superior service, even onlineoFew retailers will be able (or want) long term, to sustain prices so low they cannot make a profitoAlthough low prices might bring customers to a site, discounts alone won't necessarily keep them there or convince them to returnoOnline, a store that provides complete information from a variety of sources can be more valuable than a single site that provides only its own or partial information. Online comparison shopping is available at a wide range of sites. </P><P>These sites promise "you'll never miss a sale again;" "40 - 60% off retail in 13 categories;" daily or weekly sales updates; and email bargain newsletters tailored to your shopping interests. Some claim to scan 50 million products.Each of these services is powered by shopping bot software. Some even provide shoppers with the ability to search, compare and buy in a secure e-commerce environment. The majority accept advertising, but a few, like Price Scan claim to be unbiased and objective because they eschew advertising. Some online shoppers, no doubt, study the information on these price comparison sites before they make a buying decision. </P><P>Then there is everyone else.What makes a shopper decide that price isn't all that matters? Extraordinary service -- the very same quality that allows some stores to charge more for their items because they make shopping convenient, pleasant and reliable -- still can win over price. Superior service makes fancy cars, designer duds and luxury travel appealing. It also allows L.L. Bean, Nordstrom's, and a handful of other merchants able to charge more for their products than bargain merchandisers selling essentially the same goods. And great service is not going out of style any time soon.In terms of costs, online retailers seem to have obvious advantages over bricks and mortar retailers. </P><P>Traditional retailers need to spend $3 to $5 million to open a store. They usually can only pull from a 25 mile radius, meaning they need to make a fair margin. While online merchants can set up shop for less, and sell internationally, many have set prices so low that it is impossible for them to make a profit. Therefore, the good deals consumers now expect won't be sustainable over the long haul. Only the ones with the deepest pockets can hold out, and one begins to wonder why they would want to.Retailers are dealing with online sales in different ways. </P><P>Barnes & Noble made the mistake of not being first in their category to get online. Like so many other traditional merchants, they finally realized they could not afford to ignore the brand reinforcement of the Internet. Now they charge more for the same books in their bricks and mortar stores where overhead prohibits Amazon-like bargain prices. It seems they are betting that the instant gratification of talking to informed sales help and being immediately able to read a selected book in soft in-store chairs is worth a higher price. They may be right.Meanwhile, like Amazon, a handful of online merchants realize that they need to emphasize superior service. </P><P>Although low prices might bring a customer to a site, discounts along won't necessarily keep them there or get them to return. "We recognize we're a price leader, but we don't say to ourselves every day, 'Let's just slash and burn," says online electronics retailer NECX' director of operations Brian Marley. "I think it would be irresponsible for all of us just to compete on price, without doing the heavy lifting that goes into creating a value-added service," Marley told The New York Times. One very innovative online approach comes from Fruit of the Loom, which provides not only its own t-shirts and underwear but also it competitors inside its e-commerce storefront. The company got 24 of the nation's top 30 t-shirt wholesalers in the $5 billion industry to commit to its electronic commerce platform. </P><P>Fruit of the Loom provides consulting and software to t-shirt wholesales setting up online stores. The stores' customers then search for t-shirts from any number of manufacturers. Fruit of the Loom only demands that its products are the first replacement option offered when another company is out of stock. Online, a store that provides complete information from a variety of sources can be more valuable than a single site that provides only its own or partial information.NECX lets customers compare their prices to other stores on the same item. Customers were comparing prices anyway, they reasoned, why not help them. </P><P>The result? NECX is losing customers but making money. Sales are up 20% even though the comparison engine is the site's most common point of departure.Still, bricks and mortar merchants have the distinct advantage of giving customers what they want when they want it -- an experience that can supercede low price. Online shopping, no matter how pleasant, cannot (yet!) provide the immediate reward of buying something and then wearing or using it an hour later.There is a long way to go before Internet commerce shakes out. At this point I'm betting that at end of the road the lowest price won't be the winner.. </P>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Air Conditioner Filters Tutorial</title>
		<link>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Air_Conditioner_Filters_Tutorial/Info/188801</link>
		<category>prices</category>
		<category>Air</category>
		<category>Filters</category>
		<category>Conditioner</category>
		<category>Tutorial</category>
		<category>Air+Conditioner+Filters+Tutorial</category>
		<guid>http://www.smartoilpricesonline.com/Air_Conditioner_Filters_Tutorial/Info/188801</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Copyright 2006 Raymond Burton

One of the most important things to maintain on your new cooling unit is the air conditioner filter. Dirt and debris in the filter will reduce the air flow and thus the effectiveness of your conditioning unit. Once your ...]]></description>
		<content:encoded><![CDATA[<P>Copyright 2006 Raymond Burton<br />
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One of the most important things to maintain on your new cooling unit is the air conditioner filter. Dirt and debris in the filter will reduce the air flow and thus the effectiveness of your conditioning unit. Once your air conditioners filtering unit becomes very clogged with dirt and debris, those dirt particles will bypass the filter and start messing up the air quality along with the machines working parts.<br />
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While some air conditioner filters can be cleaned and reused, some need to be replaced altogether. If the filter on your cooling system can be replaced, it should be done or at least checked every month or two. Just like in any machine, the frequency that you change your air conditioning filters depends on the external operating conditions. </P><P>Dusty environments combined with heavy use will speed up the need for a cleaning or replacement of your systems filters.<br />
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Traditionally most simple air conditioning unit filters were made from foam, fiberglass or another washable screen type material. These air conditioner filters collect particles via a sticky surface of oil or similar substance. One draw back with foam units is that there is a risk of small foam particles mixing into the expelled air. The second is that foam air conditioner filters wear out quicker than some more modern conditioning unit filter types.<br />
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The newest type of air conditioner filter is the electrostatic mesh. Electrostatic filters are neat in the way that they filter air compared to the old "sticky grab" method. </P><P>The movement of air across the air conditioners synthetic weave of fibers creates a static charge that collects the dust on the filters surface. A side benefit to this electric charge on the filters surface is that is creates ozone which helps to kill bacteria and unpleasant odors.<br />
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You should change your air conditioner filters at regular intervals because when your filter is new, it grabs up to 10% of the dust and particles that cross over its oil filmed surface. As time passes more dust gets trapped in the filter, which is a good thing, but all those extra particles will cause less air flow to get through. By keeping your conditioning unit inspected and maintained at regular intervals will not only save you money in electric bills and repairs but also keep you air quality supremely conditioned.<br />
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What is the best make of air conditioner filter? As with all types of consumer products, there will varying opinions and lots of marketing to deal with. Often when trying to find a new product the best thing to do is ask the opinion of others. </P><P>Air conditioner filters are no different. There are several websites and forums where you can go and look through the consumer reviews and make a better decision as to what air conditioner filter would best suit your needs.<br />
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