Buying a used computer out of the classifieds is smart. Whether its for school, work, or entertainment, you can easily upgrade an older computer to boost its performance.

Odds are, if you are reading this article, you are part of the 71% of the U.S. population with home internet and a computer or quite possibly a home with multiple computers with a family full of users. The personal computer industry has new options and models available on a regular basis that can make a computer of just a few years seem outdated and ‘over the hill’, but instead of rushing out and buying a new PC, there are a few simple upgrades that can extend the life of an older computer model.

Consumer Reports agrees that upgrades are a good possibility for PCs less than four years old. Computers older than four years can lack the technology to support current upgrades and it may not be cost-efficient to put simple updates into them. The simplest recommendations most anyone can handle on their own to turn back the clock on your PC are to add additional memory, increase the hard drive space and update the monitor.

Adding More Memory Is Cost Effective

RAM is the cheapest and easiest upgrade that gives the biggest performance boost.

Adding additional memory can be one of the most affordable and effective ways to improve performance on an older PC, for around $50-$75. The more RAM the PC has, the faster applications can run and be executed, especially if you play video-enhanced games, use the computer for photo editing or have other large-memory applications. If your computer can take more RAM, consider upgrading to at least double whatever the current amount is on your system.

To see how much RAM is in your PC, go to the Start menu, click Settings, and then click Control Panel. Click System and then select the General tab. At the bottom of the page you should see the amount of RAM. Adding additional RAM requires you to open up the computer and insert new RAM modules on the motherboard. The best place to start to determine the maximum amount of RAM your computer can handle is your PC’s owner’s manual. The manual should show you the number of slots (the place where you insert the RAM), how much each slot can take and the maximum amount (MB or GB) your system can use. And there are plenty ofRAM resources on-line to help guide the way.http://www.pcworld.com/article/62183/stepbystep_bulk_up_your_pcs_ram.html

Upgrade the Hard Drive for More Storage

The latest hard drives are faster and less prone to failure.

Increasing the hard drive space can also be accomplished for under $100 and will give your computer longer life by allowing you to continue to store and save files and data. Hard drives do have limited lifetime. Replacing this part which stores the operating system, programs and your files can prevent a critical crash.

Additional internal hard drives can often be installed in desktop PCs, but the easiest option, and typically only option for laptop users, is to buy an external hard drive. These external drives are portable, small and plug into a USB port on any computer, allowing for simple use – no tools required. They make the perfect way to keep backup copies of your documents, photos and videos, or transfer them to another computer.

Improve the Display by Upgrading the Monitor

If your computer is a few years old and is running great, why not help it hide its age with a LCD flat panel monitor. The resolution is bright and crystal-clear. Your PC, and your eyes, will thank you. Models to avoid are the older CRT and flat screen models, which are bulky and power hogs.

A new monitor will start at about $100 for a 15” and go up from there with size. A used monitor is often half the retail price. Monitors require no software installation, but you may need a DVI to 15pin adapter to connect the latest models to some video outputs. A new LCD monitor for your PC is a great birthday gift for your computer – and for yourself.

Jay Leno

Rolls Royce Silver Cloud

Jay Leno owns about 80 classic cars in his collection. Besides steam-powered and electric cars, he also owns:

• McLaren F1
• Dodge Viper GTS
• Audi R8
• Lamborghini Miura
• Ariel Atom

Interestingly, Jay also owns several motorbikes and a fire engine. Jay has three full-time employees just to take care of all these babies!

Jerry Seinfeld

The comedian is a self-confessed addict to Porsches and he owns several specimens from the 1960sto prove it. His collection counts 47 Porsches. One famous incident involving Jerry is that he was not allowed to drive a Porsche he was importing because the company had only made 200 and was not about to provide 4 for crash testing purposes!

Rowan Atkinson

Mr.Bean, known in real life as Mr. Atkinson, also owns several cars. Two cars in his collection are the McLaren F1 and also a Bentley Mulsanne.

David Beckham

World famous footballer and husband of Victoria “Posh Spice’ Beckham owns several collectible vehicles and even turned down a free Ferrari from the Montezemolo family because he already had one, thank you very much! Among his collection he has:

• Bentley Arnage T
• Ferrari 360 Spider, Ferrari F430, Ferrari F550
• Lamborghini Gallardo
• Aston Martin V8 and Aston Martin DB7, Aston Martin One-77
• Hummer H2
• Lincoln Navigator
• BMW X5
• Range Rover Sport

Elton John

Elton John has auctioned off or sold several of the cars in his collection due to lack of time to drive them, among which:

• Aston Martin
• Bentley
• Jaguar
• Rolls Royce
• 3 Ferraris
• Maserati Quattroporte

Steve McQueen

Late actor Steve McQueen starred in many movies involving car chases. He himself loved cars and motorbikes and could not fail to have his own interesting collection.

• 1957 Chevrolet Convertible
• 1956 Jaguar Roadster XKSS
• 1969 Porsche 911 Coupe
• 1948 MG Roadster

His cars can now be seen at museums and exhibitions, keeping his legend alive.

Designer breeds are a newer breed of dog which resulted from the accidental or intentional mating of two pedigree dogs. They are not to be confused with mixed breed dogs. Here’s a full list of recognized hybrid  breeds. Read on for our cutest picks:

Labradoodle

As the name suggests, this dog is the product of a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. He carries the color of the Lab but has the curly coat of a poodle. Like both sides of parent, they Labradoodle is great with families with children and seem to like water, a trait common in Labradors. As with other designer breeds, this dog is not recognized by the AKC.

The Labradoodle first appeared in Australia in 1988 and was bred as a dog suitable for people allergic to pet dander and fur. It is now often used as a working dog in therapy, guiding and assistance roles.

Morkies

Morkie puppies or Yorktese appeared in the 1990s and are a mix between the Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier breeds. They are small, intelligent and very cute! They are often found in 3 color varieties: black and tan, butterscotch or tri-colored. They are considered to be hypoallergenic dogs, though they do need some grooming. Fully grown, the Morkie will weigh between 5 and 9 pounds.

Cavachon

The Cavachon is a small breed of dog that likes to join in family fun and does not like to be left alone. They are more suitable for older children but get along fine with other pets in the home. Also suitable for allergy sufferers they are great dogs for apartment dwellers.

The Cavachon was created from a King Charles Cavalier and a Bichon Frise. It has the long floppy ears and silky coat of the Cavalier and can come in a variety if colors such as red and white, sable and white, black and white, apricot and white or a combination of three colors. The breed is said to have come about by accident in1996. The dogs need regular maintenance for teeth, hair and nails and they may be prone to some diseases such as ear infections, skin problems, heart problems and hip dysplasia.

Shopping for Puppies in the Classifieds

By shopping locally, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know the breeder personally. Check out some of the puppies for sale in Lake City or our Gainesville puppies page for local puppy breeders.

When shopping for puppies in the classifieds, always be sure you see the breeding facility and meet the breeder personally. In addition, Florida law requires that all puppies come with a health certificate, that no puppy can be sold who is less than 8 weeks old. It is also illegal to advertise a puppy and ask for a deposit to hold.

Refresh Your Bedroom

Giving a fresh look to the bedroom can be done quite quickly by giving the walls a new look and updating the soft furnishings.

Not every home improvement project has to be a complete renovation.

A new headboard for the bed can be created out of a variety of items, even reclaimed doors or windows. Remove the glass and cover the backs with foam board or fiber board. Dress up the pieces with any fabric or leftover wallpaper you have lying around.

Another idea to try is a symmetrical arrangement of mirrors on the wall, in the same way you would hang pictures. The mirror effect can brighten up a bedroom and make it seem larger.

Cover the walls with oversize pattern wallpaper or a fresh coat of paint for a sophisticated look.

If someone in the family is handy with a sewing machine, update your curtains and soft furnishings with some interesting matching fabrics. Bedding can also receive an upgrade with a new quilt cover or bed sheets.

Add some modern lighting for a contemporary look and voila!

Update the Kitchen Cabinets

Old and tired kitchen cabinets can be upgraded with fresh paint and modern handles or knobs. Some cabinet doors can be removed or given a new look by adding glass. Following are some ideas for the kitchen:

• White cabinets look great against a color background wall.
• Consider putting up some open shelving for added interest.
• Chalkboard paint can be applied to one or more cabinets to use as a board for reminders and shopping lists.
• Glass –fronted cabinets set against a blue wall in the background give a striking result.
• The distressed paintwork look coupled with a granite countertop and brick walls/slate floors gives a nice vintage look.
• Tidy the inside of your cabinets with modern storage ideas or slide-out shelving.
• Removing a few existing cabinet doors can also make the kitchen look larger.

Add or Upgrade Molding

Molding projects can change the look of a room, dress it up, and add elegance.

Molding materials come in three varieties:

• Stain grade molding
• Paint-grade lumber
• Engineered profiles

Besides the more common use around the ceiling and floor, molding can be creatively used to accentuate features such as windows, a fireplace, a bookcase, or around a door. Doors can also be given a new look with paneling made out of molding strips that are nailed or glued on.

Another idea is to create a recessed panel in the room using molding, which works great with some contrasting paint color. Another extra feature to add is medallions made out of polyurethane foam or polystyrene to add decoration where a light fixture is to be mounted.

Create a Home Office

An easy way to create a home office is to design and build your own workspace. You will need to design a desk, shelves, drawers and storage, and maybe a bulletin board.  Several designs can be found online to suit any level of DIY experience.

An innovative idea is to use metal brackets and an old piece of floorboard or other recycled wood to make the shelves.

Finally, buy a comfortable ergonomic chair, your back will thank you for it.

By law it is mandatory for child passengers in a car to be properly secured in an infant seat, car seat or booster seat. Making sure your car seat is secured properly could save your child’s life in the event of an accident.

Get the Seat that Matches Your Child

The car seat is one item you can’t spend too much on.

There are various seats available on the market, depending on your child’s age and height. Checking out a good guide will give you a good idea of what to look for and what to expect. Since your child will grow quickly, but will need a seat until they are about twelve years old, you may want to buy seats which convert and grow with your child.

There will be some difference in installation depending on your chosen car seat, so for up to date information always refer to the manual that comes with the seat (or search online for manufacturer’s instructions), as well as your car manual.

The first and most important factor is to make sure you have the right seat for your child’s age, weight and height. Remember that infants should sit in a rear-facing seat until they are at least 1 year old; preferably 2 years old according to latest national guidelines.

There Are Two Manufactures Recommendations – Car Seat and Vehicle

Next, check if your seat has a LATCH system. Cars and seats manufactured after 2002 have a LATCH system, or Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children.

Then, place the child seat on the appropriate seat in your car, always referring to the brand guide as indicated. If your seat has a detachable base, it is best to secure the base without the seat attached, as it is easier to handle and to check that you are installing it correctly.

If the seat does not use LATCH, thread the car seat belt through the indicated route and fasten the belt. Pay attention to the seat belt path you are using, since a seat which can be used as rear and forward facing will have two seat belt paths. Tighten the belt until you have the snuggest fit possible. Weighing down the seat with your own weight as you kneel on it will help to give the right setting.

A locking clip can be used for added safety with shoulder belts that do not lock automatically. Finally, make sure the belt clip is lower than the seat belt path and tighten the top tether securely.

Stay Away from Air Bags

The safest place for an older child’s seat is right in the middle of the back seat, and never in the front passenger seat facing an airbag. Also, make sure the seat for a very young baby is at a 45-degree angle, so that the head does not tilt forward and obstruct the airway.

Most importantly, if correctly installed your car seat should not move more than an inch from side to side. If in doubt, your local fire department can assist you.

Redesigning your patio can be as simple as adding a few pieces of outdoor furniture to your backyard. Or it can be as elaborate as installing an adjoining concrete slab with an outdoor kitchen and dining area.

Visualize the Design with a Quick Mock-up

A bench and a potted plant transform this bare patch.

As you begin a design project for a backyard patio, always check whether you need permits to make your ideas a reality. Once that is done, you can actually start the project. You may have chosen a designer to do it for you, or more probably you have decided to do it yourself to save money and because you generally like home improvement projects.

Decide where your patio is best situated. Most patios lead off from a living area or kitchen to make entertaining guests easier. Check the space you have available and size your patio accordingly. Lay out a rope or garden hose to visualize the footprint of your patio. Set a few chairs in the space to ensure it is not to small.

Decide before your build whether you want a charcoal grill or gas barbecue on your patio, or if you want to build a stone fixture. (See Choosing the Right Grill for your Backyard BBQ.) Opportunities are unlimited and you can include or leave out any of the following: a fridge, a sink, cabinets and aesthetic features such as fireplace, waterfall or hot tub.

Select a Building Material for Patio

Consider these choices when it comes to choosing the material for your patio:

• Real stone
• Stone Veneer
• Brick
• Pavers
• Concrete

Your choice should be made on the basis of the look you want to achieve and the budget you have. Some versions of material may be easier to work with and install, while others may be harder-wearing. Keep in mind the color and tone (light or dark) that you want to achieve. Use can use websites to help you in your design or get handy with paper and artists’ colors.

Canopies Provide Shade

A patio can add a whole extension to your home.

Many patios also sport overhead cover to protect against the sun or possibly a light drizzle. You have a wide choice of coverings. Many of these now come in kits that you can assemble yourself. Options include:

• Awnings
• Umbrellas
• Gazebos
• Aluminum
• Pergolas
• Corrugated metal
• Trees
• Trellis
• Arbors

Choose Comfy Furniture

Finally, choose only furniture for your patio that is comfortable for you and your guests. Look for sturdy items that aren’t too difficult to rearrange. It could be metal, aluminum, wood or plastic; you have many choices of material and designs. Chairs, tables, lounge chairs, benches and swings are all popular pieces of furniture for a relaxing atmosphere. You need not spend a fortune straight away, you can add pieces over time. To round it up, add cushions and some atmospheric lighting to set off your work.

What are the world’s most expensive golf carts?

Golf carts used to be little vehicles that served a simple purpose — getting you around the golf course comfortably. With the advent of these new luxurious models, you are no longer confined to the course and can make a lasting impression everywhere you go!

Garia LSV – $62,000

This most expensive of golf carts is actually allowed on the street and comes equipped with seat belts, mirrors, hydraulic brakes and speeds up to 25mph. You can also install a stereo, digital instruments and a dashboard refrigerator as well as other extras. The Garia LSV is customizable with over 100 colors for the body, roof and dashboard; 3 different colors of upholstery and 10” and 12” aluminum wheels.

Garia Edition Soleil de Minuit Golf Car- $52,000

This cute little cart comes from the Porsche factory in Finland. Looking more like a golf cart than the Hummer model available for $19,999, it is a limited edition version of the standard Garia golf car. It comes with standard Garia features such as two golf bag carriers, a painted utility box, scratch-resistant side skirts, a pen holder and scorecard on the steering wheel. There’s also an optional dashboard refrigerator.

The special price for the limited edition can buy you custom paint, two-colored hand-stitched seats and a carbon roof lined with alcantara. World-renowned manufacturers of the Ducati, Aston Martin, Jaguar and Volvo brands were all involved in creating this little gem.

Rolls Royce Phantom-style cart – $30,560

If your budget is too modest for the Garia, you could opt to give your golf cart a makeover to look like a Rolls Royce Phanto. It comes with leather seats, chrome wheels, and a dual tone exterior trim.

Hummer H2 Golf Cart – $19,999

Last but not least, this cool little number will set you back a more reasonable 20 Grand. It is inspired by the Hummer vehicle used by the military. Similar to a small road vehicle, it can reach speeds of 20mph and includes brake and turning lights as well as headlights and fog lights. The dashboard is available in carbon fiber or wood grain to suit the owner’s choice. Other small luxuries include a cooler under the hood, more storage under the seat, tinted windshield and drink holders.

School supply shopping is an experience for you and your youngster, but on the other hand it can be quite a chore. New is fun—fresh starts, new teachers, new friends, new clothes, new shoes, new school supplies, new lunch boxes, and new backpacks.

Be that as it may, it can be overwhelming. (Your child is growing up way too fast—and is presently sulking in aisle two.)

Don’t panic! Here’s a guide to what you will need to get.

Before starting, you should check with your school to see if they provide a supply list. Compare it to what we have here to see what else you might want to get. Your child’s backpack might be worn out from last year, for example.

Some schools have the teacher buy the majority of the school supplies to guarantee every kid has similar things—and to make sure they have exactly what is needed. In these cases, a donation to the teacher is never a bad idea, to help cover the cost of these supplies. There might also be organizations that help obtain supplies for your student.

Kids grow like weeds, so now is the time to update your child’s wardrobe. This might mean new school uniforms, or just new clothes that your child can feel comfortable in.

Clothes and clothing accessories:

• Three to five pairs of jeans
• Four to six short-sleeved tops
• Two to four long-sleeved tops
• Two to four hoodies
• Two to four sweaters
• Two to four pairs of pants, shorts, and/or skirts
• Five to seven pairs of socks and/or leggings/tights
• Seven or more pairs of underwear
• Five bras(for teenage girls)
• Two sports bras(for teenage girls)
• Sneakers
• Casual/dress shoes
• Flip-flops/sandals/slip-on shoes
• Backpack
• Belt
• Ponytail holders and/or hair clips

School Supplies:

• Two to five spiral notebooks
• Two to five folders
• Three-ring binder (these often come with a shoulder strap)
• Five to 10 pencils
• Pencil sharpener
• Five to 10 pens
• Colored pencils
• Crayons
• Markers
• Scissors
• Glue or glue sticks
• Tape
• Highlighters
• Pencil box or pouch
• Calculator (usually just for middle school on up)
• Hand Sanitizer
• Face Masks
• Facial Tissues
• Wet Wipes

Lunch Items:

• Lunchbox or lunch bag
• Juice boxes
• Reusable water bottle
• Sandwich ingredients
• Snack items (like applesauce, pretzels, and string cheese)
• Convenient fruits/vegetables (like raisins, other dried fruit, clementines, and baby carrots)
• Yogurt
• Freezer packs to keep food cold

Electronics:

Some schools are using cell phones, tablets, or laptops for their studies. It’s not usually required for students to bring their own, and oftentimes their use is limited or completely prohibited. Check with your school to see what the rules are on electronics for your student.

It is highly recommended you have a laptop or computer and internet for students as more frequently these are used for studies: for homework that might be turned in electronically, for research, or for typing up those book reports or term papers.

When involved with distance learning, computers and a reliable WiFi are necessary, so contact your school district administration, as sometimes they can help provide them for your student.

If your vehicle’s AC has has lost its ability to keep you cool, it may simply need a recharge of refrigerant. With a few items from any auto parts store, you should be able to do it yourself.

You will need gloves, eye protection, AC recharge service hose with a pressure gauge, and a can of refrigerant. And maybe a paperclip.

DIY Vehicle AC Recharge

1. Connect the recharge service hose with pressure gauge and valve to the can of refrigerant.
   1. Twist valve counter clockwise until puncture tip is retracted.
   2. Screw onto the can of refrigerant.
2. Twist valve clockwise until it punctures the can’s top.
3. Attach nozzle to the low pressure service fitting on the A/C system. It should only match one fitting.
4. Turn on the vehicle and set the AC to MAX inside cooling. You should see and hear the compressor engage.
   1. If the compressor does not engage, you may have too little refrigerant in the system which suggests a leak.
   2. If after adding refrigerant, the compressor still does not engage, you may have a bad compressor or relay.
   3. You can bypass the relay with a jumper wire to test the compressor.
5. While watching the pressure gauge, slowly twist the valve and allow the refrigerant to enter the system. This make take up to 10 or 15 minutes.
6. Feel the air at the vents. It should be getting cold.
7. Once you have reached the proper pressure level for the ambient temperature or all the refrigerant has left the can, twist the valve counter clockwise to close it.
8. Remove the recharge service hose from the low pressure service fitting. If you used a jumper in step 4, remove it, too.

Get a Pro

Not every vehicle AC problem can be tackled by an amateur. Some problems will need training, experience, fancy tools, and sometimes parts.

• If your car is earlier than approximately 1993, the air conditioning will operate on the now obsolete R12.
• If your system is completely discharged, it may be contaminated with moisture. A pro will fix the leak and remove the moisture with a vacuum pump — a process that takes about an hour.
• If your AC turns warm weeks or months after charging, a pro will track down the leak and replace the part and seals.
• If a part needs to be replaced. Apart from fuses and relays, leave the big items to a professional who will have the proper tools.

Tired of being cooped up in your house and want a safe but wonderful daytrip? Here are 10 amazing destinations you can go to that can renew your energy, spirit, and life!

Amazing Animals

4235 Rambler Avenue, St. Cloud 34772
(407) 719-6269
Home to over 100 exotic animals this animal preserve gives private tours…just you and your group! There are many photo opportunities and hands-on encounters during this tour.

Everglades National Park Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show

24050 SW 8th Street, Miami 33194
(305)242-7700
Take an airboat through the Everglades and adventure with the alligators, birds, and turtles. This trip includes a wildlife show where guests see alligator wrestling techniques that were used by Native Americans. It even gives visitors a chance to hold a baby alligator!

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

100 Savannah Blvd., Micanopy 32667
(352) 466-3397
Florida’s first State Preserve, this wonderful park features herds of wild horses and bison. Nearly 300 species of birds can also be found along with the alligators, deer, and many other animals.

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

907 Whitehead Street, Key West 33040
Go for a walk through the peaceful studio, home, and gardens where the late Nobel Prize victor, Ernest Hemingway, was inspired to compose books during his most prolific years. You’ll likewise observe living relatives of the incredible unique six-toed felines!

Dudley Farm Historic State Park

18730 W. Newberry Road, Newberry 32669
(352) 472-1142
Spend a day with farm life as it was more than a century ago: guests participate! There’s birding, geo-seeking, hiking, wildlife viewing, and much more!

Tarpon Springs (and their Sponge Docks)

Tarpon Springs
Come to the Sponge Capital of the World and see the Sponge Docks! Learn how living sponges are harvested from the ocean. Restaurants are expanded into parking lots and shops have outdoor displays. The Greek Food is out of this world!

Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando 32803
(407) 246-2620
Investigate an astounding 50-acre botanical garden minutes from Downtown Orlando. Each garden is planned to inspire our guests. These gardens include over 40 collections, including a tropical rain forest, Florida’s largest formal rose garden, a butterfly garden, and much more!

The Ringling

5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota 34243
941-359-5700
The Ringling consists of more than one museum: Circus, Art, Ca’D’Zan, the Historic Asolo Theatre, Bayfront Gardens, and an Education Center. While some parts of the Museum are currently closed, there is still plenty to do and see!

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

4150 South Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa, FL 34446
352-628-5343
Enjoy the wild side of Florida while you visit an endangered Florida panther, red wolves, manatees, and much more. Homosassa Springs takes care of these animals who each have a unique life story.

Summer Crush Vineyard and Winery

4200 Johnston Rd., Fort Pierce 34951
(772) 460-0500
Come experience a winery like no other anywhere! Decades of growing experience mixed with years of vineyard planning and development make this a destination spot for wine lovers everywhere!

Once you have closed on your home, there are a couple items you will need sooner than you can say housewarming party. Rather than wait, get these essential items right away. If any are already there, you should replace them.

Batteries

Replace all the smoke detector batteries when you move in and each time the time changes. As long as you are in this section of the store, treat your home to a new flashlight and nightlights.

Vacuum

Do you want the dirt and dust of your last residence to come with you to your new home? Leave mites, bed bugs, and flea eggs at the door. Toss that old vacuum and buy one that is appropriate for the different surfaces it will have to keep clean. The broom and mop should be retired, too.

Garden Hose

Get the highest quality hose of at least 25ft. One for each spigot. A  roll-up hose organizer is a nice touch, but not necessary. A high quality hose will coil and uncoil easily without kinking. Extension cords are usually an aisle over, so grab one of those, too.

Tools

You are going to need tools. Get a set that comes with it’s own case. It should include a hammer, screwdrivers (flat head and Phillips), needle nose pliers, and wire cutters. Pick up a box of picture hangers, tacks and nails.  You may also find it handy to get a cordless drill.

Unless you just bought your household a new pack of scissors, get a set with various sizes. You’ll need someway to open all those moving boxes you packed up.

Wasp Spray and Cockroach Baits

These items should probably be used first. As soon as you have the keys, leave the baits in corners of each room and next to any exterior doors. Inspect the

exterior of the building for any wasps, and take them out before running to the car. You don’t want your moving volunteers to get stung.

If you find no wasps, put the can away. You’ll need it soon enough. Don’t use the spray (which can shoot 20ft ) inside the house.  Instead, use a flyswatter for any spiders you may see.

Do you remember going to the drive-in movies? They were a big thing once…and they are coming back!

What can be more fun than pulling up in your car with your family, turning on the radio to the right station, and preparing to watch two movies…all from the comfort of your own car? What’s even better…you can bring blankets, babies, and adjust the volume to your desires!

Most drive ins also have concession stands, so you don’t even have to go hungry.

If you’re going to the movies in this new old method, there are a few things you might want to take with you:

• Folding Chairs (Just in case you want to sit outside of your car.) Air loungers are good, too!
• A Cooler With Drinks. Some theatres might charge if you bring your own food and drink, but it doesn’t hurt to have them! Coffee is good when it’s a double-show, especially since the second one might not even start until late night
• Supper and You’re keeping awake until late so it’s everything about the carbs. You can’t turn out badly with popcorn, pretzels, and chips. Most theatres will not permit open flames of grills of any kind.
• Extra Cash for Concessions
• Plates, Napkins, Paper Cups
• Cleaning Wipes and Hand Sanitizers
• Portable Radios and Spare Batteries – you might want to watch from outside, after all!
• Sports Stuff to Play With Before it Gets Dark – you want a decent spot, you need to come early. Think of it like tailgating at your favorite football team’s home game.
• Bug Spray
• Snuggie or Blankets. It may be Florida, but at night it might still get cold.
• Rope to secure your trunk
• Check your screen number for each movie! Your first and second film might be on different screens, after all.

Now that you know what to bring, here’s some places where you can go for a great Drive-In experience:

• Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre – Lakeland:The Silver Moon has two screens usually showing first-run movies – with double features seven nights a week.
• Ocala Drive-In, Ocala: Renovated and reopened in 2011, affordable with great movies (and the concession stand has rave reviews)
• Joy-Lan Drive In & Swap Shop – Dade City: Shows first-run movies, and has in-car speakers available on some rows
• Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre – Ruskin:Great movies, good food, 2000 square foot screen and open year round!
• Swap Shop & Drive-In Theatre, Fort Lauderdale:14 screen drive in theatre that doubles as the largest drive-in and flea market in the world.
• Lake Worth Swap Shop and Drive-In, Lake Worth: Down-to-earth flea market with 2,000+ vendors, a drive-in movie theater & a food court.

The classifieds are a great place to find a pet. Many pet owners and breeders use the classifieds to let others know their dog, cat, fish bird, turtle or snake needs a new home.

Look for Adult Pets

You can skip the house breaking puppy phase by buying an adult dog. When adult pets are sold, it is often because the owners are moving and can’t take the pet with them. This usually means the pet will come with its own toys, cage, or tank, even food. Also, ask for their vet’s contact info, so your vet can get your pet’s health information.

As long as you are reading the classifieds, it’s a good time to look for additional pet accessories. Hamster cages, dog kennels, and cat trees can all be found in usable condition. Just be sure to thoroughly clean any used items before giving them to your pet.

Find a Reputable Breeder

When using the classifieds to find a pet, check that the breeder is running a good operation where the animals are in good health and not living in filthy conditions or being bred too often.

You should try to visit the seller personally, if possible, once you have made contact. You may then pick your pet from the available litter. The pets should look well-cared for, comfortable, happy and healthy. The seller should be able to confidently answer any questions you have about the pet and give you advice regarding care and feeding.

In the case of dogs and cats, the one or both parents will be on the premises. Bird eggs can be incubated, but look for a breeding pair to be present. Expect a health certificate to come with your new pet.

Watch Out for Scammers

Beware of any scams where you are asked for shipping address or asked to send money by wire transfer. If anything does not feel right, then end the conversation. Contact our HelpDesk if you find something suspicious.

Ease the Transition for a Happier Pet

Prepare the home of the pet in advance and buy the necessary feed, cage or accessories. Give the pet time to settle down for a few days and do not stress it out with too much attention and too many people crowding round.

Decide carefully about the pet you are going to add to your family based on the time, budget, space you have available and considering your lifestyle and the needs of your family. If you have little time then buy a hamster, fish, bird or similar pet that requires little care. A dog and cat need more interaction and grooming than other small animals. The pet should be safe around children, if you have any, though you should always supervise any play as young children can be unintentionally too rough with the pet.

Always follow the breeder’s instructions regarding feeding and other habits. If you notice that your pet is behaving in an unusual way or is not eating regularly then you should seek veterinary advice.

Looking for a job is the easiest part of the process. Our classifieds offer several pages devoted to listing vacant job positions. Being well-prepared, though, is a little more demanding. There will probably be a lot of competition for the job, and you will need to find ways to be better-prepared than most.

Resume

Having a very good resume will immediately increase your chances of getting the job. Make sure you use good quality paper, a good font style and size, and write a very cordial and interesting cover letter. These documents are your introduction to the employer and will be their first impression of you. Therefore, you have to make sure you seem an organized and methodical person.

Tailor every resume to the job you are applying for, a generic one will not do. Use a standard format and include all the relevant details of your education, training and past employment. Remember, you want to sound like the right person for the job, so show the employer why they should choose you.

Not all resume formats are the same! Here are some of the formats and who should use them:

• Chronological – These are the most commonly used resumes. They list work history preferred by most employers with the most recent positions on the top. These are best when you have a solid work history with no lapses and your experience fits the job you are applying for exactly.
• Functional – These resumes focus on your skills and experience first. Employment history is listed under the details of your skills. This format is effective for those who have lapses in their employment, are in the middle of a career change, are recently graduated college students with limited work experience, or have a very diverse background with no single career path.
• Combination – These resumes combine both skills and experience while still providing a chronological listing of work history. This allows you to more easily tailor the resume to the prospective job. This is great for those who want to detail their work experience.
• Targeted – These are customized in detail to the job being sought. Everything from objective through the qualifications directly mirrors the job requirements. These are the most time-consuming to create but can generate the best results as the resume is made to closely match the job listing. With these resumes, you should avoid embellishing career highlights just to match the job. Make sure you accurately list your skills.

Interview

Be well prepared for the interview mentally and physically. After your resume, this is your final chance to make a good impression. Dress appropriately for the job, make sure you have neat hair and nails, and turn up a little before the appointed time. A clean smell and muted accessories are much better than loud clothes and accessories and an overpowering perfume.

Mentally, be relaxed and well-prepared. Rehearse the interview a few times in your head. Breathe in a relaxed way and remember to smile and seem quietly confident. Do not be loud and opinionated, or talk at length about yourself without letting the interviewer fit in a word. Remember: Confidence is key.

Background Research

Do some research about the company before the interview date. Look at their website or read their internal newsletter/publication. You need to know the main facts about the company such as how long it has existed, who the key people are, if they are present in other countries, policies and other relevant information. They may ask you at the interview how you see yourself as fitting into the company. By showing that you know a little about the company, and giving specific and relevant answers, you will be ahead of the game.

Many employers also expect you to have some questions about the company and the job. Knowing important information about the company will enable you to make intelligent and relevant questions.

Finally, remember that there is an element of luck to every job application, too. And by luck, we mean preparedness. Do not be too downhearted if you did not get the position. Just be more prepared. A company may receive tens or hundreds of applications from suitably qualified people, but they have to make a choice, no matter how difficult that may be.

Great, vintage, collectible or downright old car? How would you know the distinction, and exactly when does a more seasoned vehicle become an amazingly classic vehicle? For the most part it depends upon who you ask: various vehicle clubs, collectors, countries, and insurance agencies have different methods of deciding whether a vehicle qualifies as a classic car. The essential attributes of a classic vehicle are age, condition and uniqueness among different vehicles.

How do you classify these cars?

• Antique – A vehicle more than 45 years old.
• Classic – A vehicle made at least 20 years prior to the current year. This definition is accepted by most state DMV’s.
• CCCA Classic – A “fine” or “distinctive” automobile, either American or foreign built, produced between 1925 and 1948 as defned by the Classic Car Club of America.
• Vintage – A vehicle made between 1919 and 1930.

Is your classic car valuable?

To be valuable and extraordinary, it must also be in great condition and true to the original design. What does great condition mean? The vehicle ought to be roadworthy, the body ought to have no rust, the inside ought to be unblemished without tears in the upholstery, ground surface or header texture, and the motor should run. Finally, the vehicle must match the first factory design as closely as could reasonably be expected.

• Uniqueness: How many were produced? How many are are left?
• Prominence: The more well known the vehicle, the more noteworthy the interest, and the more prominent the interest, the higher the worth.
• Model Quality: When it fell off the creation line, was it viewed as cheap or extravagance?

The design of cars is generally divided into the following eras — horseless carriages or veteran cars, brass or Edwardian cars, vintage cars, classic cars (pre thru post war), muscle cars. The modern car era begins in the 1980s where design was dictated by fuel efficiency and safety. Distinctive features were abandoned and cars even by different manufacturers began to look the same.

The modern “classic” returns to the bold design of yesteryear. Some have marked this as a corporate ploy to dupe buyers with nostalgic redesign. But others see this a as a return to proper design sensibilities, after a 20-year hiatus.

Cult Following

Whether corporate ploy or design revival, the status of a modern classic is really determined on Saturday in garages and car shows all across America.  Drivers are looking for clean lines and distinctive looks. They want cars and trucks that stand out from the rest.

If auto makers fail to provide it, these drivers will weld, grind and paint their way to a new era of “classic.” Only time will tell which new designs will find fanatical followers who will keep it on the road for 40 years, instead of the scrap yard compactor.