Author Archive for Jim Hofman

Wine Tours: Rhode Island Is Small In Size And Big On Wine

Published
by
Jim Hofman
on March 23, 2008
in Wine
. 0 Comments
by Jim Hofman

If you’ve never been to Rhode Island, let us be the first to encourage you to visit. Simply put, Rhode Island is unforgettable. Often nicknamed “America’s First Resort” tiny Rhode Island is much more. Its climate is tempered by the Atlantic Ocean, and there are miles upon miles of breathtaking beaches (and views) to savor and enjoy.

Further inland, Rhode Island offers the cosmopolitan and historic city of Providence and a surprising array of agricultural activity, punctuated by a small but thriving wine industry. If this surprises you, you’re not alone … we were surprised as well! But grapes grow in plentiful numbers here, and winemakers have adapted their art in accordance with what nature provides.

There are five wineries in Rhode Island, making this is a perfect weekend wine travel destination. Interestingly, Rhode Island’s climate is very similar to the north of France, which is famous for its wine production. Since Providence is our starting point, let’s learn a bit more about this charming and vibrant city adjacent to Narragansett Bay.

Providence: A City Of Great Neighborhoods

We were delighted to discover that Providence, the capitol of Rhode Island with a population of 175,000, is a very walkable city. What better way to explore a city than to feel its pulse on foot? Among Providence’s neighborhood destinations are Wayland Square, Federal Hill, and of course the downtown area.

Federal Hill, long known for its “Little Italy” area, teems with dining opportunities. If you’re a fan of independent stores and shops, don’t miss Wayland Square on the city’s east side. And let’s not forget downtown Providence, a destination for dining, nightlife, and historic architecture.

Exploring Rhode Island Wine

Since Rhode Island is such a small state, one could quite possibly visit all five wineries in two days. However, you’d miss the simple pleasure of discovering all that Rhode Island has to offer. We were struck how lush, green, and rural the area became as we traveled outside of Providence.

Just a few minutes from the Massachusetts border is the small town of Cumberland, home of Diamond Hill Vineyards. Located on a 34 acre site, it’s so picturesque here that weddings and special events are common in front of the 220 year old vineyard house. Known for its Pinot Noir grapes, Diamond Hill also has an excellent reputation for fruit wines.

South of Providence in Newport County, you’ll find three wineries: Greenvale Vineyards, Newport Vineyards and Winery, and Sakonnet Vineyards. Each location is a scenic gem! In addition to the gorgeous scenery, each winery hosts numerous seasonal events, perfect for relaxing and enjoying crisp, delightful Rhode Island vintages.

Leaving the Newport area and heading toward Rhode Island’s southwestern coastal area, you’ll find Langworthy Farm Winery in Westerly, just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean. Langworthy is situated on a family farm with an 1875 Victorian farmhouse that welcomes overnight guests. The grounds feature a stunning Norway maple tree that is reportedly the largest of its kind in the state.

You’ll find wine for any palate at these charming Rhode Island wineries, from deep complex reds to light and crisp Rieslings. So, here’s to little Rhode Island … small in size but very very big in wine, taste, and scenery! Once you visit, you’ll never forget. Cheers!

About the Author:
Are you interested in learning about wine travel destinations and unique small wineries? We invite you to explore this and many other scenic wine trails by visiting Wine Trails USA, a fun and informative site devoted to wine travel and wine tours. Don’t reprint this exact article. Instead, reprint a free unique content version of this same article.

Indoor Fruit Trees: Calamondin Oranges A Good Choice

Published
by
Jim Hofman
on March 5, 2008
in Gardening
. 0 Comments
by Jim Hofman

Are you looking for a good citrus tree to grow indoors? If so, you have several choices. While many container gardeners are familiar with the Meyer and Ponderosa lemon varieties, another option to consider is the calamondin orange tree. The calamondin is quite easy to care for and offers ample crops of fruit.

Calamondin oranges are very well known in southeast Asia, where they thrive as ornamental varieties. Asian cultures have long regarded the calamondin as a useful and versatile fruit and rely on it for many health issues. Malaysian and Phillipine cultures routinely use calamondin juice as a hair conditioner and as a cough rememdy. Its juice is also commonly used to eliminate the itching and swelling of insect bites.

Interestingly, the calamondin fruit looks more like a lemon than an orange. Typically, by the time a calamondin turns orange, it’s over ripened. About the size of a lime, calamondin oranges are typically sweeter than most juice oranges and can be used in any manner reserved for citrus fruits.

One of the best attributes of our calamondin plant is its fresh citrusy fragrance. With nominal care, the tree blooms often, more frequently than most indoor fruit trees. Our calamondin typically produces fruit in the winter and spring months in ample quantity.

One important tip with a calamondin involves how to pick the fruit. It’s best to use clippers to remove fruit from the tree rather than hand picking. Using clippers or scissors will prevent damage to the stem side of the fruit, thereby eliminating premature deterioration. Calamondins usually last only a week after picking, but they will store longer if refrigerated.

Caring for your calamondin tree is quite easy. Give it plenty of sunlight, don’t over water, and fertilize once every 4-6 weeks. Typically, your tree will require water once every 10 days, or slightly more frequently in dry environments.

For best results and to ensure a thriving tree, place your calamondin outdoors in warmer months. Here in the midwest, our tree spends mid April through mid October on our patio. This really helps the tree flourish, as butterflies and bees find the fragrance hard to resist.

These easy care fragrant trees are a perfect addition to any living space, large or small. Calamondin trees are low cost, easy to maintain, and prolific. Adding one of these trees to your home will give you ample crops of fruit, along with the pride of growing it yourself!

About the Author:
Would you like to learn more about indoor citrus trees? To find out which varieties thrive indoors and which to avoid, be sure to visit our online resource website devoted exclusively to Indoor Fruit Trees. You can get a unique content version of this article from the Uber Article Directory.

Spinning Classes: Advantages And Disadvantages

Published
by
Jim Hofman
on February 21, 2008
in Health & Fitness
. 0 Comments
by Jim Hofman

If you’re a fan of spinning classes and indoor cycling, you no doubt appreciate the benefits of this non impact workout. Indoor cycling is an excellent cardiovascular workout that you can adapt to your fitness level. Further, these classes focus on eliminating stress via a fun, challenging environment.

And yet, indoor cycling is not for everyone. Just like any exercise program, there are advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a more in depth look at indoor cycling and examine the pros and cons of adding it to your workout regimen.

The other adjustment is cycling for a standard time period with varying degrees of intensity. Most casual outdoor riders can stop and start, while an indoor cycling class is continual motion. Most classes last an hour and are interactive. Before you commit to a class, be aware that it’s pretty non stop, although you can adjust and adapt according to your fitness level.

Advantages

1. Just about anyone can enjoy and benefit from indoor cycling. No matter your age or fitness level, you can adapt the workout to your level.

2. Since spinning classes are non impact, they’re very appealing to those wishing to minimize stress and strain on their joints.

3. You’ll burn a lot of calories. Most one hour spinning classes will help you burn 500 calories on average. Of course, how many calories you’ll burn will depend on your exertion level, but the classes are designed for fat burning benefit.

4. Indoor cycling works a variety of muscle groups, including your calves, hamstrings, hips, abs, and quadriceps.

5. There tends to be less intimidation factor with spinning classes vs. other group exercise classes. Most spinning classes are mixed gender, and the learning curve is short.

Disadvantages

1. Many new participants complain of a sore pelvic bone and/or chafing. This may require the purchase of a gel seat and padded bike shorts.

2. While indoor cycling is an effective cardiovascular workout, there is very little use of your upper body.

3. Depending upon the policies at your workout facility, you may be faced with an extra cost to participate in a spinning class.

4. If the class is popular, you may need to arrive well in advance to ensure you’ll have a bike for your use.

5. Instructors come and go, and their expertise varies. Also, since spinning classes are set to music, the soundtrack may or may not appeal to your musical tastes.

Indoor cycling is an excellent workout, but it should comprise only one part of your overall regimen. We recommend a yoga or bosu ball session after completing a spinning class. These classes offer you a chance to stretch and maintain your flexibility. Also, consider adding strength training classes or sessions before a spin class. Doing so will ensure you’ve accomplished a total body workout.

About the Author:
Jim Hofman is an author and cycling enthusiast who developed a new online resource site for those wanting to learn more about indoor and outdoor cycling. Want more tips and recommendations? Be sure to visit Jim’s website for the very latest on indoor cycling and spinning classes. This and other unique content ‘indoor cycling’ articles are available with free reprint rights.

New Hybrid Vehicles: Tax Information You Need

Published
by
Jim Hofman
on February 20, 2008
in Trucks-SUVS
. 0 Comments
by Jim Hofman

If you’re considering buying a hybrid car or truck, you’ll be happy to know that the U.S. government offers certain tax incentives for your purchase. The Energy Policy Act provides a tax credit for those who purchase certain energy efficient vehicles. Since that act passed, it’s been up to auto manufacturers to certify to the Internal Revenue Service that certain passenger autos and light trucks qualify for the credit and the amount of the credit. All the consumer needs to do is check with their dealer. If the vehicle qualifies, the amount will be posted at the dealership, usually right on the vehicle itself.

In order to declare the credit on their tax return, the buyer needs to meet certain requirements. They’re pretty basic, and here they are for your reference:

1. The vehicle must be placed in service after 12-31-05 and purchased on or before 12-31-10, and the original use of the vehicle must begin with the taxpayer claiming the credit.

2. The credit may only be claimed by the original owner of a new, qualifying hybrid vehicle. Used vehicles do not apply.

3. The vehicle must be acquired for use or lease by the taxpayer claiming the credit.

4. The credit is only available to the original buyer. Leases don’t count as buying. In a lease situation, the leasing company can claim the credit.

5. The vehicle must be used predominantly within the U.S.

Some Tax Credits Phasing Out

The hybrid vehicle tax credit begins to phase out when a manufacturer sells 60,000 qualifying vehicles. As an example, hybrid vehicles produced by Toyota Motor Sales USA qualify only for a lesser percentage of the tax credit. This applies to all hybrid vehicles sold by Toyota Motor Sales, which encompasses both Toyota and Lexus. Check with your dealer, but as of this writing most of these credits are 25% of the original amount.

Finally, when determining what year your tax credit can be applied, you’ll need to consider the year in which the vehicle is placed into service. Let’s use an example. Let’s suppose you purchased a qualifying hybrid vehicle on December 27, 2007 and take possession on January 5, 2008. The amount of your eligible credit can be taken for the 2008 tax year.

The purpose of these tax cuts was designed to stimulate consumer purchase of hybrid vehicles. While we expect some level of tax incentive to remain, we also predict the amounts will lessen over time. The rationale appears to be that hybrid vehicles will be much more accepted over time, thereby negating the need for tax credits.

About the Author:
Are you considering purchasing a new hybrid vehicle? Before you buy, be sure to check out our hybrid car and truck resource site, complete with buying guides, recommendations, and everything you’ll need to know when considering new hybrid cars. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

Camcorder Video Tips: How To Produce Video For The Internet

Published
by
Jim Hofman
on February 18, 2008
in Photography
. 0 Comments

by Jim Hofman

If you’ve just bought a camcorder or are considering a purchase, chances are you’ll want to produce some video for the web. Learning to shoot video for the web isn’t difficult, but there are a few key points to consider. One of the first things you’ll want to understand is how video works on the web.

When uploading any video to the internet, you’ll need to compress it. Compressing video basically means to make it smaller so it can be loaded onto the web and users will be able to download your video. And since computers translate video onto the internet, you’ll want to shoot your video in a manner that’s most compatible for web users. If this sounds complicated … it really isn’t. Here are some general guidelines for producing video for the web like a seasoned pro.

Step One: Use A Basic Background

Since your video will be compressed to fit web standards, the simpler you make your video, the better. One important tip is the background of your video. Try to keep it as constant as possible. For example, video will translate better to the web if your background is a non moving object like a wall, instead of a constantly moving scene, like a street with passing cars. Your computer will have an easier time compressing your video files if the video doesn’t constantly change from frame to frame.

Step Two: Keep Your Video Short

Most internet viewers have a relatively short attention span. Be direct and to the point, and edit out any extraneous video. In addition, remember that most web video options like YouTube have a limit on the size and length of your video file. For example, YouTube clips are limited to 10 minutes. A good rule of thumb is keeping your video files 3-4 minutes long. You’ll have an easier download and you won’t lose the viewer’s attention.

Step Three: Keep Things Stable

If you’ll be shooting a lot of video for the web, invest in a tripod. Excess movement in a video makes it harder for the computer to compress the file and will affect quality. You’d be surprised how much movement and vibration occurs from just holding a video camera in your hand. Even the steadiest of hands will still have some vibration and movement. A tripod eliminates this problem completely.

Step Four: Get Yourself A Good Microphone

This is probably the biggest mistake most new camcorder owners make. Inexpensive models mount the microphone on top of the camcorder, making it difficult to properly record your subject. If you’re doing podcasts, invest in a good microphone. They’re sold as an accessory and are really worth the small additional price. You’ll find your audio quality will be significantly better.

Step Five: Use Close Up Shots

If you use more close in shots, your video quality will be better. Why? Because close in shots mean less information on the screen and the video will be easier to compress.

A Final Tip

Using more close in shots helps the quality of your video. This is true because close in shots mean less information on the screen. When there’s less information on the screen, your video will be much easier to compress.

About the Author:

Did you find these camcorder tips helpful? If so, you can find more in depth information about camcorders at our new resource website, including recommendations, information about new models, and dozens of camcorder video tips. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

Camcorder How To: 4 Steps To Uploading Your Video To The Web

Published
by
Jim Hofman
on February 17, 2008
in Photography
. 0 Comments
by Jim Hofman

Hey, remember 30 years ago when your dad took home movies on his old 8 mm camera? The whole family would sit together in a darkened room while dad loaded the film on those giant spools, and that choppy old projecter would show summer vacation highlights. Ah, memories.

Now more than ever, families are sharing home movies, except now it’s done by camcorders and via the internet. If you’re at all intimidated by the process of loading your film to the web, don’t be. It’s a very simple process, and here’s a step by step guide.

Step One: Upload The Video To A Video Editing System

When uploading your video into a video editor, you may have to edit or compact it. Keep your end user in mind, as long videos require additional loading time. If you’re planning to load your video to YouTube, you’re limited to 10 minutes per clip. If you have a lengthy video, another alternative is loading your video as a sequence, or in parts. Bottom line, shorter video loads faster.

Step Two: Determine Your Format

The major video format options for internet video are Quicktime, Windows Media, and Real. Our favorite choice for emailing video to family is Quicktime, because Quicktime is flexible for almost any PC. As for the type of video file, YouTube for example is also quite flexible. File formats like .mpg or .wmv are perfectly acceptable.

Step Three: Compress And Export

Compressing video is important because you want your video to load quickly and not cause the end user any viewing problems. Be aware, though, that the more you compress your video the worse it becomes in terms of picture quality. It’s a good idea to experiment with different sizes, considering the end user as you experiment. YouTube makes things easier on you as it will automatically convert the video according to their specifications.

The best course of action here is to export your video to your PC desktop. You can also set up a folder on your desktop and place all your videos within the folder. Either way, storing video on your desktop makes them easier to find and easier to send.

Step Four: Upload And Email

Uploading video to YouTube is extremely easy. After you set up an account, set your video preference to public or private. Then, add a little information about your video for reference purposes, then select the file from your desktop and choose upload. As for emailing, you can email a video as an attachment if the file is small enough. If it’s too large, just send a link to the YouTube page.

That’s all there is to it. After filming a few videos on your camcorder and going through these four steps, you’ll find it’ll only take 3-4 minutes to go through the entire process. You’ll be able to share your video creations with anyone, anywhere!

About the Author:
For more camcorder how to information, including recommendations on the new models, be sure to visit our new camcorder resource site. We’ll offer insight into HD camcorders, face detection technology, and offer many more important camcorder tips . Grab a totally unique version of this article from the Uber Article Directory

Wine Trails: New Wine Travel Options

Published
by
Jim Hofman
on February 16, 2008
in Travel Tips
. 0 Comments
by Jim Hofman

If you’re a fan of small independent wineries, you’ll be glad to know you have more choices than ever before. As of this writing, there are over 6000 wineries across the United States, with each state represented by at least one winery. And with shipping laws loosening, it’s now more possible than ever to enjoy that great bottle of wine you happened to try on a weekend excursion.

All of this is very good news for the wine industry, and wine lovers. Wine travel has become a passionate hobby, growing in popularity with each passing year. It used to be that wine travel revolved around California or France or Australia. And while those journeys are educational and rewarding, wine lovers are discovering equally rewarding wine destinations much closer to home.

Many of these new wineries are established because winemakers have found their geographic areas to be ideal for grape growing. With the varied topography in the United States, many areas are bursting with grape growing possibilities. Even in colder climates with short growing seasons, certain grape varieties thrive. As a result, more and more wineries are turning out new, interesting, flavorful wines.

Many states have certain geographical areas with regional subclimates that are perfect for grapes. As a result, wineries tend to establish their operations in these areas. These clusters of wineries are known as wine trails. From Connecticut to Michigan and from Georgia to Idaho, these wine trails are waiting to be visited and savored by weekend travelers and wine lovers alike.

Currently, 31 states have officially designated wine trails. Typically, these clusters of wineries are within short driving distance of one another and offer lodging and other attractions of interest along the way. Most offer beautiful scenery and a sense of relaxation along with wine tasting and food and wine pairings.

You might be surprised with some of the states boasting at least one wine trail. In the southeast you’ll find them in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. In the midwest, great wine is being made in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and more. If you’re headed out west, look for wine travel destinations in New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Idaho.

There’s a whole world of wine waiting to be discovered, right in your backyard. One of the most interesting aspects of discovering new wine areas is the subtle taste differences in similar styles. For example, a port wine produced with Ohio grapes will have a different taste and feel than a port from Arizona. Each offer subtle differences that will open your palate to greater wine knowledge and exploration.

Finally, discovering a wine trail is an activity the whole family can enjoy. Many wineries have U-Pick fruit orchards and offer family oriented entertainment on the premises. Young children and teens will enjoy the scenery and the shopping experience at winery tasting rooms and gift shops. The fresh air, local attractions, and relaxing pace will create memories that will last a lifetime!

About the Author:
Jim Hofman is an author specializing in wine travel and is the owner of several websites devoted to the enjoyment of wine. Would you like to learn more about great wines being made in all 50 states? Visit Jim’s resource site devoted to wine trails and the pleasure of U.S. wine travel. You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.

Indoor Cycling: Three Keys To Success

Published
by
Jim Hofman
on February 16, 2008
in Health & Fitness
. 0 Comments
by Jim Hofman

Have you ever taken an indoor cycling class? If so, you’ve probably got a strong opinion on the subject. Everyone I’ve ever talked to about spinning classes either loves them or hates them, with very few opinions in between.

There’s no question this type of aerobic activity is extremely beneficial and a highly effective cardio workout. Whether you’re just starting spinning classes or are an experienced participant, there are a few essentials you’ll need to consider in order to get the most from your workout.

Starting any new fitness activity can be an intimidating experience. In fact, experienced cycling enthusiasts even face and adjustment period with a new instructor. The key factor is adapting the workout to fit within your physical and mental parameters.

Here’s three tips for indoor cycling participants:

1. Remember that proper clothing is essential. Avoid wearing running shorts and sweats, as neither provide much protection against chafing during indoor cycling. In terms of water, be sure to have at least 8 ounces available, preferably more. Most spinning classes are relatively strenuous and you’ll need to keep hydrated.

2. Don’t worry about other participants and what they’re doing. Remember, this workout is for you. Just because someone else is peddling with furious intensity doesn’t mean you need to follow suit. Listen to your body. If you feel you can push yourself, go for it! Otherwise, adjust the speed and tension so you have a challenging, but not overbearing workout.

3. Adjust your seat to the proper height. Placing the seat at an improper height is the most common mistake in spinning classes, or cycling in general. The best rule to follow is this: your knee angle on your downstroke should be about 85% straight, meaning not completely straight, but close. If your seat is too low or too high, you’re compromising your workout and risking injury.

Lastly, modify your workout whenever necessary. Experienced spin instructors know how to tailor the workout to all levels of fitness, including giving you alternatives for the most strenous aspects of the workout. If your fitness level isn’t quite up to par, that’s ok. Just modify the workout and give your best effort.

If you’re at all uncomfortable with fitting in, don’t worry. Just work by yourself on a stationary bike for a few weeks. You can increase or decrease intensity levels to keep things interesting. When you’re ready, the spinning class will be there for you, and within a few sessions you’ll be spinning with the best of them!

About the Author:
Jim Hofman is an author who lost 25 pounds in six months just from adding indoor cycling classes to his workout routine. For more tips, strategies, and recommendations, be sure to visit Jim’s recommended resource site devoted to biking and indoor cycling . You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.