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February 28, 2008
empithree - MP3 archive
http://www.empithree.com/
Mp3 Archive
Posted by chek at 06:17 PM | Comments (0)
February 26, 2008
Kiva Loans
http://www.kiva.org/
Kiva - Loans that change lives
Lets you lend to a specific entrepreneur in the developing worls - empowering them to lift themselves out of poverty.
Posted by chek at 09:47 AM | Comments (0)
February 21, 2008
Pars Khodro
http://parskhodro.ir/
پارس خودرو
Megan, Tondar, Maxima, Roniz, Pickup, New PK
Posted by chek at 10:34 AM | Comments (0)
February 11, 2008
KitchenCountertops
http://interiordec.about.com/od/kitchencounters/tp/tp_countertops.htm
Top Picks for Kitchen Countertops
1. Granite Counters
Granite is the countertop material of choice when there are no other things to think about - like money. It defines elegance in a kitchen. As the use of granite becomes more widespread, the price comes down. The beauty of the stone contributes to the beauty of even the most modest kitchen.
Pros: holds up to heat; comes in a range of almost 3000 colors; looks permanent and substantial; will last a lifetime; new sealers are almost maintenance-free; 2nd highest hardness rating after diamonds; has a high value to home buyers.
Cons: expensive, but becoming more affordable; requires some maintenance; some stones absorbs stains if not sealed; knives can become dull if you cut on it; can crack if stressed or improperly installed.
2. Engineered Stone
Engineered stone is composed of 93% quartz particles. It is available in a larger range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists scratches. It's easy to maintain, without the annual sealing required by natural stone. Some brands on the market include DuPont Zodiaq®, LG Viatera®, Cambria Quartz, and Silestone®.
Pros: Resistant to stain and acid; easy care.
Cons: Expensive.
3. Solid Surface
Because solid surface counters are just what they're called, solid, any scratches can be sanded out. The countertops are custom-made to your specifications by companies such as Avonite, Corian, and Swanstone.
Pros: comes in a rainbow of colors and patterns; seamless; stain resistant.
Cons vulnerable to hot pans and stains which can damage the surface; can be moderately expensive.
4. Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean. Add to that inexpensive and you've got a really good choice for countertops for the average home. Because it's installed a section at a time, it can be done by most resourceful homeowners.
Pros: takes hot pans; easy to clean; wide range of price, color, texture and design.
Cons: counter surface is uneven; tiles can easily chip or crack; grout lines become stained; custom-designed tiles are very expensive.
5. Laminates
Laminate counters bear trademarks such as Formica, Nevamar, and Wilsonart. They're made of plastic-coated synthetics with a smooth surface that's easy to clean. The pieces are cut to size and finished on the ends.
Pros: you can buy laminates in lots of colors; easy to maintain; durable; inexpensive.
Cons: scratches and chips are almost impossible to repair; seans show; end finishing and front edge choices can be pricey.
6. Wood or Butcher Block
Wood countertops offer a beautiful warm look and are available in a wide range of colors and finishes. Hardwoods such as maple and oak are most often used as countertop woods.
Pros: easy to clean; smooth; can be sanded and resealed as needed.
Cons: can be damaged by water and stains over time; scratches must be oiled or sealed according to manufacturer's instructions.
7. Stainless Steel Counters
For a really contemporary and industrial look for your kitchen, stainless steel is a good choice. They are heat resistant and durable. Because they're constructed to your specifications, you can have a seamless countertop.
Pros: takes hot pans; easy to clean.
Cons: Expensive; noisy; may dent; fabrication is expensive; you can't cut on it.
8. Soapstone Counters
Soapstone is generally dark gray in color and has a smooth feel. It is often seen in historic homes but is also used in modern homes as both a countertop and sink material.
Pros: rich, deep color; smooth feel; somewhat stain resistant.
Cons: requires regular maintenance with applications of mineral oil; may crack and darken over time.
9. Marble
Because of it's extremely high price tag, marble is not often seen on the countertops of whole kitchens. To get the luxurious look, use it on an island or inset at a baking center. Marble requires constant maintenance, as it easily stains. Some new sealers retard staining.
Pros: waterproof; heatproof; beautiful.
Cons: expensive; porous; stains easily unless professionally sealed; can scratch; may need resealing periodically as per manufacturer.
10. Concrete Counters
If you have countertops in unusual shapes, concrete may be a good choice, as they're often cast right in your kitchen. The high price tag may be beyond most people's budget.
Pros: heat and scratch resistant; can be color-tinted; looks exotic and unusual; new treatments eliminate cracking; additives reduce porosity; new finishes are more decorative.
Cons: mid to high range on cost due to custom work; cracking is possible; can look somewhat industrial; porous but can be sealed.
Posted by chek at 12:58 PM | Comments (0)
February 08, 2008
US Home Auction
http://www.ushomeauction.com/
Foreclosed Properties: Buying Foreclosed Home, Properties & Foreclosed Home Listing For Sale
Posted by chek at 05:04 PM | Comments (0)
February 07, 2008
EmPiThree
http://www.empithree.com/
Mp3 Archive
Pop, Traditional, Rap, Instrumental, Islamic, Learning, and Audio Books
Posted by chek at 12:06 PM | Comments (0)
zirzamin.se
http://www.zirzamin.se/index.html
Zir Zamin, The ultimate Iranian music magazine for the Iranian independent and underground musician.
Posted by chek at 12:04 PM | Comments (0)
Parkour Soccer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7ZkEFUlvcU
Posted by chek at 12:00 PM | Comments (0)
February 04, 2008
Reuters - Pictures of the Year
http://www.reuters.com/news/pictures/slideshow?collectionId=1067&galleryName=Showcases#a=14
Reuters
Pictures of the Year 2007
Posted by chek at 09:25 AM | Comments (0)
February 02, 2008
Jashn-e Sad-e
http://www.chekonim.com/
jashne sade bonfire celebration
Jashne Sadeh is one of many great celebrations of ancient
Iranians for more than 5000 years
Half Moon Bay, California at private campground near the beach
Shanbeh - 13 Bahman Maah 6371 (Saturday - February 02, 2008)
4:00 PM. Music, Food, and Drinks, Free & Open to Public
Please RSVP in advance by email as space is limited:
info@trueiranians. org, www.trueiranians. org
Directions will be emailed to the confirmed participants.
Posted by chek at 11:59 PM | Comments (0)