The Story Of Atlas Model Trains

By Ferdinand Emy

Just like many other companies in the model train industry, the story of atlas model trains is a story of resourcefulness, entrepreneurship, and hard work, mixed with a passion for a hobby that produced a company that grew larger than what anybody would have envisioned at the beginning.

Origin of atlas model trains goes back to the introductory decades of the twentieth century, when Stephan Schaffan Sr. established what would become atlas model trains. Back then, it was a tool company, and not a model train company and Stephan Schaffan sr. Was so ridden with insufficient human resources that he had his son Stephan Schaffan Jr. Came and aided him with the business.

Stephan Schaffan Jr. Wasn't happy with the money that he gained at his dads business (that is if he earned anything at all). He was a young and inventive man who liked machinery. He would go after work and built model airplanes at his house. There was a local airplane model shop where he inhabited, and he would visit it oftentimes. He applied to pester the possessor by asking for a side job that he could do to earn extra money, to which the possessor would always deny him.

All the same, one day, the possessor of the store grew so lethargic of Stephan Jr.'s incessant and badgering requests that he gave him a large quantity of old railroads and model trains that he didn't want to use anymore, in the hopes that Stephan would go away and leave him for crying out loud.

Little did he know that these old railroad tracks and models that he discarded so without apparent effort would finally become what today is known as atlas model trains.

Stephan Jr. Went back home and worked on those trains. Being an inventive and intellectual young man, he designed a switch set, which would become the staple of atlas model trains, and that allowed the user to commence and stop the trains by manipulating the voltage on the tracks.

Thereafter, Stephan Jr. produced more productions which made the constitution grow even more, while his fathers business started to look little in comparison. someplace along the line, the first name was dropped and the constitution took the name of atlas model railroad, because most people know it by the name atlas model trains.

Now with atlas model trains officially existing, Stephan created assorted gimmicks that saved work for the persons who relished the model train hobby. example, he created pre-assembles' tracks, that saved his clients the problem of assembling it themselves. generally his innovations made track assembling much having little impact. Atlas model trains is today one of the renowned names in the industry. because Stephen Jr. is no longer alive, atlas model trains and his bequest made model trains a much more accessible hobby for train lovers.

About the Author:

Ferdinand is the author of the book: Introduction To Hobby Trains get an insight into this lovable world of hobby for people of all ages.

Boat Cruises; Are They the Best Choice for Parties?

By Amy Nutt

When deciding to throw a party, one has to consider all of the planning that goes into making the event a success. For many people, planning a party can be very time consuming. Fortunately, there are many economical alternatives to having a party that will provide not only a lot of fun, but also lasting memories. One popular party choice is having a boat cruise party.

Boat cruise parties are fast becoming a popular choice for people who want to have a fun time without the hassle of planning. Party Cruises are organized by professional staff whose purpose is to provide everything one needs to have an innovative and memorable party. Cruising on the open waters is a great way to entertain and enjoy the company of friends, family, or colleagues.

Hiring a boat cruise comes with a host of benefits that can include a DJ with your choice of music, a dance area, a delicious dinner prepared by top chefs that is served by professional and courteous staff. As well, party boat cruises can be of many types such as a social gathering with friends, a wedding or engagement party, or a special party for close friends or family.

Party cruises have a very flexible time schedule. You can hold a boat party in the morning, afternoon, or night. You can also hire a boat cruise for a few hours or a full day. Boat cruise staff will work hard to design a cruise around your schedule.

You also have the ability to customize your party cruise. For instance, theme party cruises have become very popular. Such themes can include: Halloween, Valentines, and Christmas. You can also have a specific costume theme boat party such as a pirate, soap opera, movie, celebrity-etc. Any type of theme you can think of, boat cruise staff will work hard to make it happen. Casino party cruises are also becoming very popular.

When on a party cruise, you can have such activities as dancing, singing, a bartender that will cater to you and your guests personal beverage preferences, and even a fireworks display. The dedicated staff will make all of the preparations and load the provisions prior to departure. You will not have to worry about anything being forgotten. Once the boat sets sail, the party begins.

One great part of the boat cruise is that you have plenty of privacy and the scenery along the shores will be astounding. There will be many things to see and do during the cruise while having the time of your life.

Not only are boat part cruises fun and exciting, they also provide you and your guests with the perfect opportunity to get away from the daily stresses of life, and relax and party together. Prices of cruise packages are tailored to meet you economical needs so you wont spend a fortune. You can have as little or as much of the extras as you want. If you have never been on a cruise, this may be the perfect time to gather your fellow party-goers and go on a cruise. A boat cruise will be completely relaxing and wash away lifes daily stresses. A party boat cruise will bring much needed fun and adventure into your life, and your guests will make lifetime memories.

About the Author:

Let Toronto Harbour Boat Cruises help you arrange the perfect boat cruise in Toronto. Hosting corporate functions, Toronto dinner cruises, personal parties and public events in a style.

Britney Spears Womanizer - May Have Just Redeemed Her From Lackluster Comeback

By Shane Bascome

For this writer, listening to Britney Spears' Womanizer single is reminiscent of how good she was back in her prime. This song will induce only two reactions: love or hate it. But I'm pretty sure most will not go for the latter.

Fans missed hearing the classic Britney Spears songs. She used to release album after album but due to being a personal trainwreck, we've seen her disappeared from all the bad publicity fast. But she is back. The release of Blackout made it official as well as her performance at the MTV VMAs where she made a complete mess of herself.

After the release of Blackout, which turned out to be her most unsuccessful album to date, she released Womanizer, a single from her upcoming album. This song seemed to hit the mark. It has all the elements that make a Britney hit: nice lyric, catchy and funky melody, and upbeat tempo. Fans loved it immediately. Just like the other hits, this one will make you get up and want to dance to its electro-pop feel.

Even though the lyrics were not as deep as one would expect from someone who's been in the business for a long time, they were relatable. Fans will be able to connect to the song because they understand what it is all about: a womanizer who's been found out by the girl he likes. Womanizer, woman-womanizer You're a womanizer Oh womanizer, Oh you're a womanizer baby You, you, you are You, you, you are Womanizer, womanizer, womanizer. Now that he has been outed, the girl would not let him get even to first base. Nikesha Briscoe and Rapheal Akinyemi did a great job penning the words.

The composers of the song have infused the new trend in pop songs: futuristic sounds and electro-punk feel. It definitely added to the appeal of the song. But it would seem more suitable if the song is devoid of this and concentrated on sticking to the bubblegum pop genre, which is what Britney Spears is famous for.

But despite that, the song still sounds great. You can't deny the fact that it is a hit. Britney has her elements in the song: nice lyric, phrasing, the distinctive vocals and tempo.

Most artists would like to come out with a different sounding records. Britney was among them (she had a collaboration with Madonna) but with this particular track, it seemed she went back a couple of steps. The way Womanizer was arranged (taking the futuristic sound away), it sounded like the kind of record she would sing years ago, but it is NOT an issue because it sounded great. It was wise to go back to basics after her hiatus because it re-solidified her hold in the pop scene.

One can't deny the fact that Womanizer is a great song. If you expect a great comeback hit from Britney Spears, then you've got it. Nothing more is needed to be said.

About the Author:

Britney Spears music is freaking hot! Not only is her music amazing, but her body is freaking hot! She has the smoking hot looks and the voice to make her way from the lows she has seen really take place! To read more about Britney Spears news visit our site today!

Bruce Jenner Undergoes Corrective Cosmetic Surgery

By Leonard Dawson

Bruce Jenner is known to many people as an Olympic hero. In the 1976 Olympic Games, Jenner broke the world record for points when he won the decathlon. In a gesture that has since been emulated by many athletes, a bystander handed him an American flag and he held it high as he ran his victory lap, cementing his place in the hearts of many viewers.

In the thirty plus years since the Olympics, Jenner has become a spokesman for Wheaties cereal and appeared on many television shows, most notably Keeping Up with the Kardashians, which he stars in with his wife and children. What has come to light recently has been Jenner's past plastic surgery mishaps and his recent procedure to correct failed facelift operations.

Jenner went against the advice of doctors and had a facelift and rhinoplasty, over twenty five years ago. The result was far from what he had expected. While Jenner was certainly not horribly scarred or disfigured, his appearance changed rather significantly, sparking an array of rumours over the years, ranging from horrific surgery tales to the rumour that he was burned while fleeing a burning house with his family. The truth is far less dramatic.

Jenner received an ill advised partial face lift as well as rhinoplasty. He has never spoken publicly about the surgery, and refused until recently to publicly acknowledge the incident. That all changed recently, however, when Jenner decided to have reconstructive cosmetic surgery to repair the results of his former surgery. The results were revealed on his television show with his supportive wife and children by his side. Daughter Kim called the episode "heartfelt" and stated that viewers gained an insight into how the initial procedure affected Bruce Jenner throughout the years.

There is little doubt that cosmetic surgery is popular among stars. When you put your face and body in the right hands and listen to the advice of a qualified surgeon, the results can be remarkable. The tiniest changes can produce remarkably dramatic results. Bruce Jenner had the unfortunate experience to go against surgical advice, and he lived with the results for over two decades. The world finally has a chance to see the new and improved Bruce, and his family seems more than impressed by the results. Whether you know him for his acting or his Olympic heroism, there is little doubt that it is excellent to see Bruce Jenner looking so good and healthy again.

About the Author:

Leonard Dawson is a freelance article writer who writes for Cosmetic Surgery Guru about current issues, technology and news within the cosmetic surgery market.

World's Most Luxurious Yachts

By Amy Nutt

Yachting is a celebrated luxury enjoyed by many around the world. There are yachts that are so spectacular that they are considered vehicles of style more than a means of water transportation. These yachts are owned by the richest people in the world and certainly reflect their wealth.

Below is a list of the worlds most luxurious yachts:

Lady Moura: The fabulous Lady Moura is 354-feet long and was built in 1991for Saudi Prince Nasser al-Rashid. This mega-yacht has a crew of 60, a pool with a retractable roof, and an artificial beachfront with sand.

Octopus: The astonishing Octopus is 416ft in length and was created by Paul Allen. It has a crew of 40 and contains seven smaller boats, two helicopters, and a 10-person submarine.

Rising Sun: The remarkable Rising Sun is 453 ft in length and is co-owned by Oracle CEO Larry Ellison and producer David Geffen. The five-story boat has 82 rooms and highlights include onyx countertops, 9,900 square-feet of decking, a movie theater and a basketball court/helipad.

Trimaran: This wonderful yacht is 148-meter-long and can hold 28 guests. It was designed by Craig Loomes. The Trimaran has a swimming pool, several rooms for sunbathing, grand piano and a bar, hot tub, a grand hall, a helicopter pad and even its own internal harbor. It can reach a top speed of up to 50 knots.

Leander: This eye catching 75-meter in length yacht was developed by Peene shipyard in 1994. It contains 3 deck levels, large dining room, bar, sauna, gym, pool with Jacuzzi, barbeque, panoramic windows, observation lounge, and private VIP apartments.

WallyIsland: The astounding WallyIsland is 325 ft in length and was designed by Wally Yachts. The deck was created for a large garden. There are three upper-level decks and one main deck. The yacht contains a swimming pool, garden spaces, court for tennis or mini soccer field, helicopter pad, guest rooms, master suite, library, theater, and spa and fitness area.

Atmosphere: The magnificent Atmosphere was developed by Perini Navi in 2000. The length is 174ft and can house 14 people. It features a dining room, saloon, sauna, separate Turkish bath, satellite TV/DVD/video/stereo as well as a Jacuzzi dip pool. The interior consists of cherry wood.

Virginian: This stunning yacht is 200-ft in length and can house 12 people. It was created by Van Lent in 1990. It contains six cabins, a sundeck, a library, built-in bookcases, a bar, dining room, and a large bathroom.

Annaliesse: This unbelievable mega-yacht is 280-ft long and contains15 staterooms, spa, salon, library, childrens play area and movie theater with a 100-inch screen. The master stateroom has a king-size bed and remote-controlled panoramic windows. It can accommodate 36 guests.

Ecstasea: The incredible Ecstasea is 250-ft long and is owned by Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich. It contains bamboo furniture, marble flooring, a disco, sauna, Turkish bath, and retractable helipad.

Alysia: The 5 deck striking Alysia is 280-ft in length and is the sister ship of the Annaliess. Its 1,300 square-foot master stateroom has a private deck, Jacuzzi, marble decked bathroom and California king-size bed. The yacht contains elevators, sundeck with barbecue, a bar, an 8-person hot tub, spa, gym, salon and a 500-bottle wine cellar.

Tatoosh: The outstanding Tatoosh is 301-ft in length and is owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. It is said that this yacht contains a theater, swimming pool and lobster tank and landing pads for two helicopters.

These yachts are some of the most luxurious boat cruise ships in the world. The astounding size and designs will amaze those who have the opportunity to see them up-close.

About the Author:

Book a Toronto boat cruises for your next corporate or private event. Toronto boat cruises and events are the perfect venue for your corporate, public, and private event.

Gemstone Jewelry Suits Any Occasion

By George C.Baycan

Gemstone jewelry is jewelry that offers an extraordinary look for any and every occasion. Available in a wide spectrum of colors and shades, you can find so many pieces that you would enjoy wearing, whether for formal or informal affairs. Shopping for these gorgeous pieces is always a thrilling experience because the choices are so many. You will have trouble finding a piece to suit the occasion, your style and your pocketbook.

Unlike diamonds, which are indeed beautiful in their own right, colorful gemstones are so versatile and appeal to so many different people, and yet another benefit is that they can also be considerably less expensive. Emeralds, rubies, and sapphires are considered to be among the most valuable of all the precious and semiprecious gemstones in the world and are available in a wide variety of values, settings, cuts, and types.

Sapphire rings are available in shades of blue along with several other colors, although the deep blue remains the most popular color of sapphires, which are the birthstone for the month of September and one of the hardest of all gemstones second only to diamonds.

Rubies have long been the gemstone representing love and passion. Emperors and kings the world over have coveted these beautiful gems for their beauty scarcity and they have been worn by royalty for centuries. Given as a token of love, rubies are also the birthstone for those born in July. These rich red gemstones are also hard and rank high on the Mohs scale which is the scale used to measure the hardness of a mineral.

Who doesn't love the beautiful deep green color of the emerald? These breathtaking gemstones are among the most expensive of all gemstones. They are, fortunately, being man made in laboratories, and these are much less expensive but look just as genuine. A natural emerald's value is also measured by their depth and color, the deeper and greener it is, the higher the value.

In regards to the ever important matter of the stone's actual cut, gemstone jewelry can be found in a wide variety of differing cuts, each used to accentuate the stone's natural brilliance in some way. Brilliant-cut is one of the most popular for larger stones and allows the maximum amount of light to pass through and be reflected back out. Brilliant cuts can be used for round, oval, marquise, even pear shaped stones. Other popular cuts for gemstone jewelry include princess, heart, emerald, radiant, and trillion.

Gemstone rings are available either as a solitary stone or a cluster with other similar or complimentary stones. Whatever your taste or desire, there is a combination of stones that you will love and treasure for a lifetime.

It is important to take the time you need to decide what gemstone jewelry is right for you. Learn how to take care of these precious natural stones. They are durable and need little care, but proper cleaning will show off their brilliance for years to come.

Be careful when you are cleaning a gemstone ring never to do it over a sink. It might slip accidently from your hands and be lost down the drain. Instead, use a bowl filled with water. It is worth the effort.

About the Author:

George C. Baycan of Simayof Jewelers has sevenyears experience in the jewelry industryand serves in management and marketing consultant positions. He specializes in Gemstone Rings and Engagement Ring Settings consulting.

Titanium Rings Can Be Cut Off Safely

By Andrew E. Jacobsen

If you are active and wear jewelry there is a chance that injury may occur. Taking off jewelry for work or physical activity is a smart move. It can sometimes be very difficult to remove safely.

If you wear a ring and injure your finger quickly remove it before the swelling begins. Using baby oil or even your own spit can help if the swelling has already begun. Elevating the fingers and putting on a cold compress will also manage the swelling for easier removal. If that fails it may need to be cut off at the emergency room.

You may have been told thet titanium rings are a bad choice because they can't be cut like a traditional ring. This is not the case at all. Hospitals have been removing titanium rings for years and with no more difficulty than other rings. Don't let this stop you from buying titanium rings.

I have personally cut through titanium rings with my home dremel ( I make jewelry ) with ease. Professionals would not use a dremel obviously. They are equipped with high tech emergency ring cutters. If you are injured and your ring finger is swollen to an unsafe level seek emergency care immediately.

Mens wedding bands and mens jewelry rings can be cut using standard jewelry ring cutters as well. These are available within the industry. A cut-off wheel easily penetrates titanium grade 6-4 quickly and easily. With any cutting process, sharpness and quality of cutting edge determines the quickness of the cut-off.

If you are thinking of cutting off your ring at home you should reconsider. Many people have severely injured themselves doing this. I have seen a friend try and use bolt cutters and ended up in the hospital. May as well go to the right place from the start.

About the Author:

If you have been seeking mens jewelry rings don't be scared to purchase titanium. Titanium is a wonderful and inexpensive choice for rings of all kinds. Titanium is now the metal of choice for mens wedding bands and other jewelry. Don't let the myths scare you away from a stunningly strong and beautiful metal.

Backpack Baby Carriers - 3 Tips To Ensure You Get The Best

By Miranda Xavier

Just because you have a child does not mean that you have to sacrifice your life. A backpack baby carrier is a good way to stay active once you are a parent.

The wrong baby carrier can soon put you off going out and there is nothing more soul destroying that being excluded because you have a baby. Check out the tips below to ensure that both you and your baby are active and happy.

1. Your Babies Comfort - A crying baby will make for a miserable trip, so you need to be sure that your baby is comfortable and stays comfortable if they fall asleep. You do not want the baby to sleep awkwardly or to have straps poking into them.

Tip - Make sure that you carrier is well padded for the baby and has a suitable head rest which is cushioned enough to ensure comfortable sleep.

If you are thinking of carrying a slightly older toddler, then you should check out the foot straps as these secure the babies legs, lower back and pelvis to be in a comfortable position.

2. Comfort for the Adult - Just as important as the babies comfort is the comfort of the person carrying. If the adult is uncomfortable then it is fairly certain that your trip will not be repeated.

Tip - The carrier should be adjustable at the shoulders, hips and also the length of the carrier. With the correct settings the weight of the carrier and child should be distributed comfortably. All straps should be wide and well padded to maximum comfort.

3. Accessories - To ensure that your child has a safe and fun time it is important to have the correct accessories. The most important accessories are those pertaining to the weather.

Tip - Make sure that your backpack baby carrier has good covers for wind, sun and rain. As conditions change these should be easy to fit and they should be secure so that the person carrying the child will have confidence in the safety and comfort of the child. The storage space on a baby carrier is important as you will almost definitely have to take spare clothes, snacks and nappy change equipment with you (as well as anything you may want).

Some accessories seem bizarre and unnecessary, but you will be amazed what you get attached to. I became quite dependent on the little mirror which BushBaby have attached inside the hip support which allows you to check on the baby.

Finally, being a parent is about sharing not sacrificing. You can share the world with them from an early age.

About the Author:

Find out more about backpack baby carriers..... If you want to see a selection of everything your baby will need visit http://www.greatbabysupplies.com/

Rolex Explorer II Review

By Billy John

I bought a Rolex Explorer 2 while I was visiting Switzerland a few years back for vacation. The watch cost about $2000, which is a bit expensive but I was also thinking about reselling it here in the states.

The watch made from solid stainless steel and is resistant to water up to 100 meters. I do a lot of diving under water, and the depth is never greater than 100 meters so this watch is great for me. I tested it underwater

The Rolex Explorer watch weighs 8 ounces. I am not arthritic so I can deal with the weight, though if you do suffer joint pain you might want to go for a lighter watch. The watch has an hour, minute, time zone, second hand and a date much like the original explorer.

There is a bubble right on top of the date which serves as magnifying glass. The hands on the watch ticks quite smoothly and sounds great. I prefer the layout of this watch over the rolex submariner that one of my friend ownes.

The watch comes in two different dial colors. There is a black dial and a white dial. My watch has the whit dial and looks great. One great thing is the quality is so good on these watches that it looks the same since I got it.

The watch system is automatic, meaning there is a half weighted pendulum that powers the mainspring. The mainspring then powers the other springs and gears which in turn powering the watch. The watch has a clutch system that makes sure you don't over wind it.

A small problem with this watch for potential buyers is that is not very well known. People who see it can't really tell it is a Rolex. For those people who buy Rolex watches so they can say they own a rolex might want to buy a different model. On the up hand, this is an excelent ownership watch.

Lastly this watch glass piece is made from Sapphire crystals. This means that you won't have to worry about getting scratches or dents from daily use. When it comes time to pass it down, the watch will still look great.

About the Author:

Billy John from buy watches online offers more reviews at Pre Owned Rolex Explorer