Friday, February 25, 2011

Learn The Rules

Blackjack Odds And Strategies
Home :: Sports & Recreations :: Casino-Gaming
By: Sadie Kirsten Email Article
Word Count: 503 Digg it | Del.icio.us it | Google it | StumbleUpon it

In a game of Blackjack the player places a bet, and is then dealt two cards – usually the player's cards are dealt face up, while the dealer places one of his cards face up, and one face down.

The aim of the game is to get a hand which closer to 21 than the hand of the dealer holds. If the player goes over 21, then they are considered ‘bust' and lose the bet.

In many online casino, the dealer must ‘stand' – meaning take no more cards, if he is dealt a hand of 17. The player is allowed to request a ‘hit' – or, take another card, no matter what the value of their hand is.

The value of an ace can be 1 or 11, depending on the hand.

The rules of Blackjack are quite easy to learn, and many people are tempted to try their hand at the game because of the possibility to beat the house if you are a skilled player. It takes a lot of practice and discipline to come out on top, as well as a good understanding of the game.

The player wins if their hand is closer to 21 than the dealers.

One of the biggest questions for novice players is whether or not to hit or stand on a 17. Many casinos dictate that the dealer must stand on a 17, a few others say that the dealer must hit on a 17. The player has the option of taking either action. If possible, they should keep track of cards that have already been played, and use this knowledge, along with some basic statistics, to decide what they should do.

Remember, however, that card counting is considered illegal in certain parts of the USA. The casino cannot stop you from using your own brain power but you should never, ever use an electronic or mechanical counting device to do the work for you.

Players should remember that if they do not believe they can win a hand with the first cards they have been dealt, they can surrender. If the player chooses a hit first, then they cannot surrender at a later date. The surrender option is worth using, as you get half of your original bet back. If you play a bad hand and lose, then you lose the entire bet.

Many novice players assume that since Blackjack and even Poker is a game without a house advantage, that means that they can simply walk up to the table and play, and they will win. It is not quite as simple as this, and you need to have a clearly defined strategy, and understand the odds, before you play.

The Article has been written as guidelines for player by 888.com online casino and poker online room where you can play roulette, online blackjack and more, and now you can even play bingo at 888 ladies bingo site.

Article Source:
http://www.articlebiz.com/article/161230-1-blackjack-odds-and-strategies/

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Guest Article From ArticleCat.com

How to determine the value of antiques

Antiques are prized for their rarity, artistry, age and uniqueness. Most collectors who have gained enough experience in this field are familiar with the basics of establishing the value of an item. Furthermore, they can distinguish straight away authentic objects from reproductions or fakes. Although the skills of talented collectors can't be acquired that easy, nowadays there are many guidelines meant to assist first time antique collectors.

Collectors who are interested in determining the value of antiques should first of all look for the mark of the manufacturer of the antique. Thus, they can see if the antiques are authentic or fake. In case the antique values are authentic, the value of the antique is definitely higher. Nowadays, collectors can use the internet in order to identify the recorded marks and then they can resort to an expert to establish the authenticity of the item.

Some reputable online appraisers might also offer the necessary information simply by looking at photos and their descriptions of the item, while others prefer looking at the item before they give their professional opinion. Another step in establishing the value of antiques is looking carefully at the condition of the item. Antiques that are sold in a good condition will have a higher value than deteriorated antiques. Items which are complete are highly appreciated by collectors.

Also, the value of antiques which are chipped or cracked is less valuable, exceptions being those that are historical or unique. Although it is said that antique values are established according to their age and artistry, most collectors look for antiques that are in an acceptable condition. However, there are some collectors who purchase items with small defects, as long as their value is significant.

Professional antique collectors may resort to an antique restorer in order to repair the item, but they should be careful when they do that. Not all restorers have the necessary expertise in order to restore valuable antiques. Next, antique values are also determined for their rarity and uniqueness. In the context of antiques, rarity refers to the number or the quantity of items that can be found on the market. Rare antiques will definitely increase the monetary value irrespective of their condition. Another important factor in determining antiques value is the provenance of the item. Find out where the piece comes from in order to know its value.

For this reason, it is important to keep in mind that not all antiques of at least 50 years old have the same value. The value of antiques is based on the marketing idea that the demand for the item increases together with its monetary value. The most frequent debate when it comes to antiques is the one regarding authenticity. Throughout the years there have been accurate reproductions of valuable antiques and inexperienced buyers might find it difficult to distinguish a fake from the real thing.

Because of these, today there are several sources meant to help first-time buyers determine the authenticity of an antique. Proofs such as receipts or photos which show the history of the item will definitely prove its authenticity. However, we suggest resorting to professionals if you are willing to spend a significant amount of money on an antique. Specialists will give you an unbiased verdict and you with their help you will be able to avoid special offers and prices that are too good to be true. Do not hurry into buying an antique if you are not sure of its origin. Take your time and wait for an advised opinion!


Written by: Clint Jhonson

Establishing the value of antiques is often more difficult than it seems, especially for first time antique buyers. We understand the value of an antique and we do our best to put at your disposal all our support in order to help you determine antiques value.



Tuesday, February 8, 2011

The Cardinal Virtues

  • Fortitude
  • Prudence
  • Temperance
  • Justice

Lord, who may abide in Your tent?

Who may dwell on Your holy hill?

He who walks with integrity,

and works righteousness.

And speaks truth in his heart.

He who does these things

will never be shaken.

PSALM 15