First and last eclipse of 2011 seen today

Business and Leadership Ltd.

Sky watchers were treated to the first – and last – partial solar eclipse of 2011 this morning. The spectacle was visible from most parts of Ireland and Northern Europe from 8:37am to 9:26am. David Moore, chairman of Astronomy Ireland , said it is the last time the phenomenon will be seen in Ireland for at least four years. At maximum contact, the moon covered 40pc of the sun.

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Shooting Stars Continue to Light Up Sky

Business and Leadership Ltd.

The Geminid meteor shower which started last week and hit its peak last night is set to continue tonight. For those who did not get to observe last night, the meteor show continues tonight and every night until December 20. The Geminid shower was due to peak last night, and many observers said they saw up to 100 shooting stars per hour. On Astronomy Ireland ’s Facebook page, some ‘fans’ shared their experiences of watching the spectacle last night. The organization advised that star-gazers do not need a telescope or another specialized equipment to view the ‘shooting stars.’ The best place to watch is somewhere dark, uninterrupted by street lights. Astronomy Ireland began a…

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“Biggest telescope festival of the year” planned for Astronomy Ireland Star-B-Q

Biggest telescope festival of the year

Ireland’s highest village – Roundwood in Co Wicklow – is the setting for Astronomy Ireland’s annual Star-B-Q, which takes place on 27 August 2011. The astronomy club says the event is Ireland’s biggest telescope festival and its biggest annual fundraiser. As well as providing people with the opportunity to look into the skies using some of the most powerful telescopes in Ireland, the event will include professionally catered food by Michelin-experienced chefs, a night sky guide, an overview of the constellations and door prizes. There’ll also be a binocular masterclass – event organisers are advising people to bring their binoculars and they’ll be shown “the secrets of the sky with a…

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Age-Proof Your Brain

Brain development occurred only during youth

Doctors used to think that brain development occurred only during youth and that as we age, our brain cells (neurons) inevitably die off. But recent research confirms that humans can add new neurons throughout life. This means we can continue learning new ideas and mastering new skills. Each neuron has branch-like appendages called dendrites that extend in different directions. Whenever die brain is stimulated by an experience—even in old age—new dendrites form. Neurons communicate with each other via electrochemical impulses sent through dendrites. More dendrites mean greater brain power. As we age, some dendrites naturally wither and die. The more we have left, the better our cognitive abilities remain. Key:…

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Recession Preparation: Make Time for Networking

Networking

Even during busy days, take a few minutes to talk to someone who calls. Be encouraging even if you can’t help him/her. Refer the caller to other people who can help. Confirm his phone number and E-mail address so you can get back to him—and to show you really want to stay in touch. When unemployment rises due to a recession, you may get more calls from people wanting help. It is good business to have them think well of you.

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Let Colors Affect Your Mood

Let Colors Affect Your Mood

Watery blues and fresh greens can help you relax after a tiring day. Warm tones, such as reds, oranges, and yellows, can help get you up and going. Use different colors in different parts of your home, to help create the moods you want. Examples: Cool colors where you want to relax, such as a bedroom, warm ones where you want a feeling of high energy, such as die kitchen. Frank M. Don, whose writings and studies on color are included in The Faber Birren Book Collection on Color, Yale University Art and Architecture Library, New Haven, CT, and the Royal College of Art, London. Mr. Don is the author…

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The Real Smell of Success

Bruges Belgium

This is Belgium. Bruges, to be exact. I want to say I took the picture. I’ve taken some great photos in time on this rock, but I think this one is a little too good and perfect. But I will tell you; I have stood at this very spot. It is as awesome as this picture looks. And it was at this moment; I loved what I did because I could stand there at that very moment and soak in an entirely different culture. And the Belgian beer. Seriously, the Westmal Triple. You have to have one before you die. Trust me. So, the title of this piece is “The…

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Jim Ward: Body Jewelry Goes Mainstream

Jim Ward Body Jewelry

The granddaddy of the modern body piercing movement is Jim Ward. Looks like an average looking guy, right? He started doing body piercing in his home in the 70’s. Now? Get this: Body piercing and body jewelry has grown to $1 billion industry in the US. But don’t think that body piercings and body jewelry are a new trend. It’s actually an ancient practice. How ancient? The first known piercing dates back over 5,000 years when “The Ice Man” was found in the Italian Alps in 1991. What was pierced? His ears.Piercings can show off social standing, sexual status, superstition, or just because it looks great. Who else did piercings…

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