When I was a young child my father introduced me to the world of sports. Watching the NBA and the NFL became not just a sports event but a father and son event as well. My father was an extremely busy man holding the fort down with two jobs but he was always home on Sundays for football and made sure he either took time off for Lakers games or would have the VCR set to record a game so that we could watch it together upon his return home.
My father always made sure that we made the most of these days and went all out with food and drink and sometimes would invite my friends and their parents over for festivities as well. In addition to that my father was that guy most of us know or have heard of, you know that guy that holds huge parties for championship games, namely the Super Bowl and the NBA finals. During these events my we pulled out all the stops complete with decorations throughout the home and my father would often have food catered or hire someone to do some serious Barbequing.
I have been more reminiscent and nostalgic of these times I spent with my father because my son is now at an age where he has began to take a interest in sports. In part this may be due to the fact that many of his acquaintances and friends are already football fans but it may also have to do with the fact that I still don’t miss an NFL game, nor do I miss any Lakers games. Of course my father is still with us and while we don’t get to watch every game together anymore we still manage to make time for getting together during the playoff’s and the occasional post game phone call.
It was in fact during this last call I had with my father I informed him that his grandson had taken a liking to sports and that he’d asked for a couple of NFL Jerseys & Apparel for his 12th birthday. “Grandpa” was excited by this news and said he’d like to help out with that request and would also like to begin coming over on Sunday’s again once football season starts up at the end of summer. Both my son and I thought this was a fantastic idea and I’ll admit, made me feel like a boy myself again. It’s almost an overwhelming feeling when I think of how much fun and bonding there will be during the games we will be watching together and I know my son is equally to spend time with both his father and Grandfather at the same time.
Though my son has shown interest in the NFL he’s just begun to ask questions about basketball and I’ve actually recommended that my father purchase an NFL Jersey for my son’s birthday and I’ll take care of the NBA Jerseys & Apparel. This should help push him in the right direction though as a Lakers fan, I can only hope he holds the same allegiances to the teams I route for. Should he end up supporting teams my father and I don’t I know this will be an experience for him that lasts a lifetime.
So no we play the waiting game. Football begins at the end of summer and my father will have retired by that time allowing him more time to spend as he sees fit and I know he’ll be here each weekend. In addition to that I’m not sure who I’m more excited for, my son and the memories this will leave with him or myself for helping to create the same great memories I have, for my son. One thing is certain however. No longer will we be squinting at a 19 inch television from our recliners and the couch. Games in High Definition and Surround Sound will make this all the more enjoyable.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Automation: An Ingrediant of Success
As is normal in the world of computers things change rapidly and there’s always a bigger, better piece of software or hardware waiting in the shadows patiently for its chance to dethrone current technology. This is perhaps even truer when dealing with technologies surrounding networks. Though it’s been in existence for some time aspects of IT automation are just beginning to take foot within businesses.
When it first began to make it’s rounds in the business world, IT Automation was extremely expensive to have implemented and the technology was in an obviously unproven state. As time went by and the technology advanced more businesses began to take notice and begin implementing things like Run Book Automation and ITIL automation. These businesses quickly discovered that implementation of such things freed up not just network resources but human resources as well.
Prior to implementation the majority of businesses whom relied on their networks for business were frequently forced to dedicate one or two individuals to a network for the sole purpose of tracking down bugs and then manually create patches for those problems. This naturally consumed payroll and did not allow talented individuals to assist in the creation of new applications, perform alpha and beta testing, and even keep things running smooth for those in the company who used a computer. As it became known that automation would free up these types of resources and allow the network to patch itself this technology really began to garner attention from businesses that may have once been apprehensive about adopting a new technology.
These days the majority of companies be them small or large have implemented some type of automation. Some have begun to use services like ITIL Management while others still have gone to full automation and streamlined their IT staff considerably, saving their company both money and time. In fact those companies who do not plan to automate to even a small degree should take heed and learn from those who’ve already chosen that path. Data Center Automation has become such a powerful tool that those that choose not to automate often find themselves struggling to keep applications online and running properly and generally have no choice but to employ an unnecessarily large IT staff. In many cases these companies have failed and are no more however it’s never to late to begin the automation process.
As with all things once it approaches commodity status and is no longer the new thing prices drop, healthy competition takes root, and there are endless choices both in terms of services and cost for entrepreneurs and IT professionals to consider. Most experts predict that the majority of networks will be completely autonomous by 2016 and while that’s difficult to argue, it may happen much sooner should the technology continue on the road it’s on.
When it first began to make it’s rounds in the business world, IT Automation was extremely expensive to have implemented and the technology was in an obviously unproven state. As time went by and the technology advanced more businesses began to take notice and begin implementing things like Run Book Automation and ITIL automation. These businesses quickly discovered that implementation of such things freed up not just network resources but human resources as well.
Prior to implementation the majority of businesses whom relied on their networks for business were frequently forced to dedicate one or two individuals to a network for the sole purpose of tracking down bugs and then manually create patches for those problems. This naturally consumed payroll and did not allow talented individuals to assist in the creation of new applications, perform alpha and beta testing, and even keep things running smooth for those in the company who used a computer. As it became known that automation would free up these types of resources and allow the network to patch itself this technology really began to garner attention from businesses that may have once been apprehensive about adopting a new technology.
These days the majority of companies be them small or large have implemented some type of automation. Some have begun to use services like ITIL Management while others still have gone to full automation and streamlined their IT staff considerably, saving their company both money and time. In fact those companies who do not plan to automate to even a small degree should take heed and learn from those who’ve already chosen that path. Data Center Automation has become such a powerful tool that those that choose not to automate often find themselves struggling to keep applications online and running properly and generally have no choice but to employ an unnecessarily large IT staff. In many cases these companies have failed and are no more however it’s never to late to begin the automation process.
As with all things once it approaches commodity status and is no longer the new thing prices drop, healthy competition takes root, and there are endless choices both in terms of services and cost for entrepreneurs and IT professionals to consider. Most experts predict that the majority of networks will be completely autonomous by 2016 and while that’s difficult to argue, it may happen much sooner should the technology continue on the road it’s on.
Titanium Rings: A New Choice
There is much that can be said about men’s wedding bands. While some comments are negative more and more it is becoming commonplace to hear men not only compliment wedding bands worn by other men but also to look forward to choosing their own band. This shift in opinion can most likely be attributed to the introduction of new metals into the fray, such as Tungsten, and even Titanium.
Titanium rings have really taken the world of wedding bands by storm over the last few years due in part to being budget friendly though the majority of men enjoy these rings simply because they don’t look like other rings. Gold, Sliver, and Diamond rings made for men tend to all look similar and possess similar designs all of which look old fashioned to many men. Other men have also claimed that most men’s wedding bands fall short of looking masculine which has also helped titanium rings become so popular.
Most men are overly and pleasantly surprised at just how original many of the designs are when viewing titanium rings for the first time. Not only do wedding bands made of titanium come in different colors but one may find rings that boast multiple colors on a single ring. In addition to this the majority of titanium rings have creative patterns or markings etched onto the ring, adding a bit of je ne c'est quoi to the band that will often prompt others to ask “what type of ring is that you’re wearing.”
As previously mentioned, titanium rings also carry a much friendlier price tag than do those of a more contemporary or traditional nature. Young couples, especially grooms who have find themselves with a small and strict wedding budget may want to consider looking at titanium as an alternative to other metals as this is a fantastic way to save a few dollars. Almost every major jewelry chain and private vendor offers titanium wedding bands so finding one that appeals to you should pose no problem.
As previously mentioned there is another excellent unconventional choice one can make when considering wedding bands, that choice being Tungsten. Tungsten rings share a number of similarities with titanium rings, primarily cost and style. Tungsten rings can be found mocking gold and bright silver in color and are equally as stunning in their native somber silver coloring. Wedding bands made of Tungsten also boast many unique designs and can include custom etchings, and stylish rigid designs to create a unique look for those looking for something different.
Regardless of whether your budget be small or large it would be foolish to overlook Tungsten and titanium rings as possible candidates for wedding bands. Many have called titanium the new gold while others have referred to “man’s diamond”. Selecting either one of these metals for your wedding band will open up the doors of choice and options, will save you money, and leave you with a stylish and unconventional looking ring.
Titanium rings have really taken the world of wedding bands by storm over the last few years due in part to being budget friendly though the majority of men enjoy these rings simply because they don’t look like other rings. Gold, Sliver, and Diamond rings made for men tend to all look similar and possess similar designs all of which look old fashioned to many men. Other men have also claimed that most men’s wedding bands fall short of looking masculine which has also helped titanium rings become so popular.
Most men are overly and pleasantly surprised at just how original many of the designs are when viewing titanium rings for the first time. Not only do wedding bands made of titanium come in different colors but one may find rings that boast multiple colors on a single ring. In addition to this the majority of titanium rings have creative patterns or markings etched onto the ring, adding a bit of je ne c'est quoi to the band that will often prompt others to ask “what type of ring is that you’re wearing.”
As previously mentioned, titanium rings also carry a much friendlier price tag than do those of a more contemporary or traditional nature. Young couples, especially grooms who have find themselves with a small and strict wedding budget may want to consider looking at titanium as an alternative to other metals as this is a fantastic way to save a few dollars. Almost every major jewelry chain and private vendor offers titanium wedding bands so finding one that appeals to you should pose no problem.
As previously mentioned there is another excellent unconventional choice one can make when considering wedding bands, that choice being Tungsten. Tungsten rings share a number of similarities with titanium rings, primarily cost and style. Tungsten rings can be found mocking gold and bright silver in color and are equally as stunning in their native somber silver coloring. Wedding bands made of Tungsten also boast many unique designs and can include custom etchings, and stylish rigid designs to create a unique look for those looking for something different.
Regardless of whether your budget be small or large it would be foolish to overlook Tungsten and titanium rings as possible candidates for wedding bands. Many have called titanium the new gold while others have referred to “man’s diamond”. Selecting either one of these metals for your wedding band will open up the doors of choice and options, will save you money, and leave you with a stylish and unconventional looking ring.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Men's Wedding Bands: The Titanium Age
It is fairly common for men to play a secondary role when planning for their wedding. It’s even more commonplace to see these same men in an unexcited state when it comes to wearing a wedding band. Being a married man I can attest to this because at that time and prior to my engagement I loathed wearing any type of jewelry. Mind you most men have no problem letting others know they’re off the market, however the choices for Mens Wedding Bands has traditionally been very limited and somewhat unappealing which has caused a majority of men to cringe at these choices.
As the pendulum swings both ways, and as doors open and close, opinions have changed dramatically in the past few years regarding men’s wedding bands. I believe this change can be attributed mainly to the new, classier selection of wedding bands available and even to the more affordable choices being offered.
Leading the charge in this change of opinions are Titanium wedding rings. Though they are available for both brides and grooms Titanium rings are immensely popular with men for two big reasons, price and stylish presentation. Titanium wedding bands boast a unique look that men wont find in the more traditional gold, silver, and even diamond rings. In addition to that the cost of these types of rings allows those who are budget conscience to dedicate a little extra to the wedding as prices are generally much more affordable when compared to more traditional rings.
Another popular choice for alternative men’s wedding bands is Tungsten. Tungsten offers up many of the same things Titanium does in terms of affordability, attractiveness and boast many different designs that aren’t found in traditional rings. These newer metals have allowed many men who would have never considered wearing a wedding band to be comfortable with a stylish ring. Other men who may have just not cared much for sliver, gold, and diamond now have several alternatives that come not just in different colors but styles that can be considered more “manly”.
So which ring did I settle on? Well initially I was unimpressed with all of the rings my then fiancée and I viewed and as I was not the type of male to wear any type of jewelry I tried to convince her to allow me to remain ring free. She is a more traditional type of person than I, and I was talked into taking a look at some alternative choices for men's wedding bands. I saw Tungsten and Titanium and ended up going with the latter as I found a solid black Titanium ring that fit both my personal style of dress and sense of humor perfectly.
As the pendulum swings both ways, and as doors open and close, opinions have changed dramatically in the past few years regarding men’s wedding bands. I believe this change can be attributed mainly to the new, classier selection of wedding bands available and even to the more affordable choices being offered.
Leading the charge in this change of opinions are Titanium wedding rings. Though they are available for both brides and grooms Titanium rings are immensely popular with men for two big reasons, price and stylish presentation. Titanium wedding bands boast a unique look that men wont find in the more traditional gold, silver, and even diamond rings. In addition to that the cost of these types of rings allows those who are budget conscience to dedicate a little extra to the wedding as prices are generally much more affordable when compared to more traditional rings.
Another popular choice for alternative men’s wedding bands is Tungsten. Tungsten offers up many of the same things Titanium does in terms of affordability, attractiveness and boast many different designs that aren’t found in traditional rings. These newer metals have allowed many men who would have never considered wearing a wedding band to be comfortable with a stylish ring. Other men who may have just not cared much for sliver, gold, and diamond now have several alternatives that come not just in different colors but styles that can be considered more “manly”.
So which ring did I settle on? Well initially I was unimpressed with all of the rings my then fiancée and I viewed and as I was not the type of male to wear any type of jewelry I tried to convince her to allow me to remain ring free. She is a more traditional type of person than I, and I was talked into taking a look at some alternative choices for men's wedding bands. I saw Tungsten and Titanium and ended up going with the latter as I found a solid black Titanium ring that fit both my personal style of dress and sense of humor perfectly.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Two Factor Authentication
These days spending time online can be dangerous regardless of whether you’re a private individual checking things out at home or the proprietor of a business. Admittedly there is more potential danger and loss to be had by a business who operates a network that stores client and business sensitive data. If this same company also has employees using the internet and email for any reason this opens the network and your data to even bigger and more damaging threats.
Danger has always lurked just around the corner for those who enjoy spending time online and since the inception of the Internet there have been various companies out to prove that they provide the very best in online security both for businesses as well as for the private sector. As someone who’s been using the Internet for the better part of fifteen years I can tell you that there are very good, middle of the road and very bad security programs available through different vendors.
The one portion of online security I find disconcerting however is the oversight many of the larger publishers have when dealing with the common computer user. The typical computer owner knows how to do little more than open a browser and peruse a few favorite websites. With the majority of people falling into this category I often wonder why security programs are continually churned out that are overly difficult to use, have poor interfaces, or require extensive computer knowledge to use. Businesses really aren’t affected by this however as they hire knowledgeable professionals who come to work already educated about such things.
Having spent the last couple of weeks researching online security programs I came across Two Factor Authentication which in layman’s terms ups your online security and protects valuable and private data by using a digital fingerprinting system to determine what is and isn’t safe and/or legitimate for you and any business who might use such security. This type of security can keep those individuals interested in practicing unscrupulous activities from doing so which in turn keeps valuable information safe.
Interestingly enough a few of the companies I looked into offered Two Factor Authentication services that required no tokens and required no installation of additional servers. I can see this as a big selling point for those businesses who might be interested in keeping their sensitive materials out of hands that might do harm, such as a man-in-the-middle looking to pull off phishing attacks. I was further surprised to find that some companies offer this type of security making use of retinal scans though I found these to be much more expensive than those utilizing fingerprints and the like.
So just how much security do you need? That’s actually a matter of how big your business is and how many people have access to the data and equipment you want protected. Should everyone with access actually have those privileges or do they have access simply because you don’t have the time to implement these types of security features? There’s no price you can put on security and peace of mind so those of you who may not have yet to look into Two Factor Authentication security should do so.
Danger has always lurked just around the corner for those who enjoy spending time online and since the inception of the Internet there have been various companies out to prove that they provide the very best in online security both for businesses as well as for the private sector. As someone who’s been using the Internet for the better part of fifteen years I can tell you that there are very good, middle of the road and very bad security programs available through different vendors.
The one portion of online security I find disconcerting however is the oversight many of the larger publishers have when dealing with the common computer user. The typical computer owner knows how to do little more than open a browser and peruse a few favorite websites. With the majority of people falling into this category I often wonder why security programs are continually churned out that are overly difficult to use, have poor interfaces, or require extensive computer knowledge to use. Businesses really aren’t affected by this however as they hire knowledgeable professionals who come to work already educated about such things.
Having spent the last couple of weeks researching online security programs I came across Two Factor Authentication which in layman’s terms ups your online security and protects valuable and private data by using a digital fingerprinting system to determine what is and isn’t safe and/or legitimate for you and any business who might use such security. This type of security can keep those individuals interested in practicing unscrupulous activities from doing so which in turn keeps valuable information safe.
Interestingly enough a few of the companies I looked into offered Two Factor Authentication services that required no tokens and required no installation of additional servers. I can see this as a big selling point for those businesses who might be interested in keeping their sensitive materials out of hands that might do harm, such as a man-in-the-middle looking to pull off phishing attacks. I was further surprised to find that some companies offer this type of security making use of retinal scans though I found these to be much more expensive than those utilizing fingerprints and the like.
So just how much security do you need? That’s actually a matter of how big your business is and how many people have access to the data and equipment you want protected. Should everyone with access actually have those privileges or do they have access simply because you don’t have the time to implement these types of security features? There’s no price you can put on security and peace of mind so those of you who may not have yet to look into Two Factor Authentication security should do so.
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