Archive for the ‘Hobbies’ Category

Choose Single-speed Bikes for Casual Strolls

Wednesday, February 8th, 2012

In stock at the moment:Single speed bikes are more popular than multispeed bikes for a reason. Most people only bike through varied terrains for the adrenaline fix, so if you prefer a casual stroll along the coast over an intense afternoon at the hiking trails, then a single-speed bike should offer a smooth ride, uninterrupted by shifting worries and derailed drive trains.

You shouldn’t put single-speed and fixed gear bikes in the same category, though. These are set up and function differently, and you’ll easily confuse one for the other if you don’t pick either out of the display racks. A single-speed bike is the obvious choice if you want to coast, but make sure you pick a gear and frame that’s built for efficiency. A fixed-gear bike doesn’t have freewheel pedals, so you’ll have to keep the momentum going; this shouldn’t be a problem if your ride doesn’t involve scenic views and varied terrains.

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Grading Your Trading Cards Can Make Them More Profitable

Wednesday, February 8th, 2012

You can grade your trading cards in order to make your card collection better and more profitable. Grading cards is advantageous because of the fact that most of the vintage cards are graded as average or less than average. So in case you happen to possess a classic or vintage card of top grade, your collection automatically gets enhanced in value. Grading can be done either at home yourself, or you can employ the services of a professional grader. Professional grading ensures that the authenticity of the grading cards is not questioned while the cards are being traded. One of the principal factors that is considered during the grading process is the condition of the card. There are certain factors like printing quality or alignment, which are not in the control of the collector. Similarly, other factors like handling of the card, are within the control of the user. For example, most graders will check to see if the corners of the card are sharp and pointed or bent and worn.

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The California State Dance is West Coast Swing

Thursday, January 26th, 2012

I remember when someone told me that West Coast swing was the California state dance. This was some time ago, and I pondered why it was the state dance then I found out that it originated in the Los Angeles area among the swing dancers who started dancing the Lindy hop and East Coast swing in a more smooth style.

I danced with some of the first dancers of West Coast swing, who were still dancing in the seventies when I started dancing. They mixed up their swing with lots of movements that are done these days by Lindy hoppers, Balboa dancers and East Coast swingers. They did a lot of twists, swivels and kicks. Also, their posture was not standing tall but somewhat hunched down, very grounded. The thing that still stands out for me is the amazing leads they had. There wasn’t any doubt what they wanted you do when you danced with them. Later, in the eighties when a group of dancers brought back the Lindy hop, they tried to keep it vintage but it started transforming again and in L.A. there was Hollywood style and L.A. style Lindy hop which resembled West Coast swing. Anyway, I guess it all makes sense now why they made the West Coast swing the state dance. West coast swing San Diego style is a true mix of classic and contemporary styles of swing.

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