http://www.artipot.com/authors/4485/jim-hofman/ Latest articles by Jim Hofman from Artipot - your one-stop resource for free articles. http://www.artipot.com/articles/229052/bartending-101-five-steps-to-double-your-tips.htm If you're a bartender, even the most successful of bartenders, it's likely you're seeing a few less customers give today's economic climate. If this unfortunate reality is eroding your tips, it's time to take charge. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 16:23:12 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/229052/bartending-101-five-steps-to-double-your-tips.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/228163/bartending-online-schools-what-to-expect-and-what-youll-get.htm Bartending has long been one of the most popular professions worldwide. And while most of the skills bartenders need to be successful are learned on the job, bartending schools are another option to cover the basics. Over the past decade, learning and taking courses online has blossomed, and the bartending industry is no exception. There are now dozens of reputable online... Sun, 02 Nov 2008 12:42:15 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/228163/bartending-online-schools-what-to-expect-and-what-youll-get.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/227622/bartending-schools-five-questions-to-ask-before-enrolling.htm If you're considering a career in bartending, chances are great you've heard of professional bartending schools. Just like any other profession, successful bartenders posess a certain skill set. Many procedural skills can be learned from a bartending course, like drink recipes, mixology, and state certifications. Sat, 01 Nov 2008 07:39:27 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/227622/bartending-schools-five-questions-to-ask-before-enrolling.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/224392/opera-gloves-history-and-fashion.htm Whether you're a fan of opera or not, the genre itself is often credited with bringing a sense of style and elegance to musical performance. Nowhere is this more evident than the use of opera gloves, a revered fashion accessory for women dating back over 300 years. Sun, 26 Oct 2008 15:50:48 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/224392/opera-gloves-history-and-fashion.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/224004/baseball-card-values-5-key-factors.htm The story has been told hundreds of times. Mom and Dad finally sell the old house, and all the childhood memories are unearthed from the basement and attic. And lo and behold, here's that box of baseball cards from the 1960's! After a few minutes of reminiscing about all your old favorite players, thoughts immediately turn to, "I wonder what these cards are worth?". Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:10:26 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/224004/baseball-card-values-5-key-factors.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/223985/baseball-cards-buyers-and-getting-the-best-price.htm Did you just dig up that shoebox full of your old baseball cards from the 1960's and 1970's? If so, consider yourself lucky, and get ready for a quick crash course in baseball card values. Sat, 25 Oct 2008 03:50:19 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/223985/baseball-cards-buyers-and-getting-the-best-price.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/223984/baseball-cards-appraisals-and-how-they-work.htm OK, you've just rediscovered that long lost box of baseball cards from the 1960's. If your days of collecting for fun have long passed, it's time to start the process of turning your baseball cards into cash. So the question arises, what to do next? Sat, 25 Oct 2008 03:39:02 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/223984/baseball-cards-appraisals-and-how-they-work.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/223982/baseball-cards-book-value-and-what-it-means.htm Baseball card collecting is one of the most revered hobbies in America. And every day, people are unearthing their old collections from dusty boxes in the attic, anxious to turn their lost treasure into cash. Sat, 25 Oct 2008 03:06:30 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/223982/baseball-cards-book-value-and-what-it-means.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/223952/bartending-qualifications-the-top-five-mandatory-skills.htm Bartending is one of the most flexible careers in the world. People are often drawn to bartending because of the income potential, varied hours, and the demand for bartenders from cities to small towns and everywhere in between. No matter where you live, chances are great there are bartenders employed within minutes of your home. Fri, 24 Oct 2008 21:01:32 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/223952/bartending-qualifications-the-top-five-mandatory-skills.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/223430/bartending-essentials-seven-steps-to-be-a-better-bartender.htm Anyone who has spent time in a bar or restaurant can recognize a great bartender. They're the one who keeps the drinks coming, has a good rapport with customers, and generally enjoys what they're doing. It's no secret that many of these great bartenders have been around for a long time, probably due to the excellent gratuities they rake in night after night. Thu, 23 Oct 2008 18:04:39 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/223430/bartending-essentials-seven-steps-to-be-a-better-bartender.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/223395/bartending-tips-be-conversant-in-bourbon.htm Back in the 1980's, not much bourbon was being sold in liquor stores or bars. Newer, more trendy drinks hit the scene and bourbon was relegated to dusty, unused shelves and dubbed an "old man's drink". Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:22:54 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/223395/bartending-tips-be-conversant-in-bourbon.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/223383/bartending-skills-the-art-of-garnishing-drinks.htm In today's bar and club environment, presentation is just as important as the drink itself. New drink recipes surface every day, and the affluent customer is always seeking a unique environment that's appealing to the eye. Imaginative and creative bartenders help create the desired scene, and an important part of the equation is how well drinks are served and presented. Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:45:02 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/223383/bartending-skills-the-art-of-garnishing-drinks.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/223262/bartending-certification-goldmine-or-waste-of-time.htm There's an obvious appeal to the bartender. He or she is, at any given moment, a social director, a friendly ear, or simply the person who delivers your drinks with a smile. A great bartender is one of a bar's greatest assets, often bringing in a consistent crowd of regulars who enjoy stopping in and adding to the bottom line. Thu, 23 Oct 2008 09:23:43 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/223262/bartending-certification-goldmine-or-waste-of-time.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/222708/increase-your-gas-mileage-add-a-few-drops-of-this-to-your-tank.htm With gas prices hovering well over $3 per gallon, it's no surprise that drivers are looking for ways to realize better fuel economy and cut their costs at the gas pump. And while most gadgets on the market claiming to increase your vehicle's gas mileage are scams, there is an inexpensive, commonly found additive that will in fact increase your mileage per gallon. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:27:42 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/222708/increase-your-gas-mileage-add-a-few-drops-of-this-to-your-tank.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/213557/indoor-lemon-trees-tips-and-how-tos.htm Lemon meringue pie, anyone? If you enjoy cooking with lemons or even just using them to make lemonade, consider an indoor lemon tree. Indoor lemon trees are just one of many types of container fruit trees, any of which will fit comfortably in your home and will produce a bountiful fruit crop with minimal care. Mon, 06 Oct 2008 04:12:09 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/213557/indoor-lemon-trees-tips-and-how-tos.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/185346/wine-trails-discovering-spokane-and-eastern-washington.htm Of the many great U.S. wine travel destinations, Washington is one of the most well known and diverse. With well over 100 wineries, spectacular scenery, and interesting vibrant cities, Washington is high on many wine lovers' lists. Sat, 16 Aug 2008 01:59:02 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/185346/wine-trails-discovering-spokane-and-eastern-washington.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/137034/wine-travel-maine-a-delight-for-wine-lovers.htm As Chicagoans, we've always enjoyed the changing of the seasons. Spring brings rebirth and summer offers the warmth of all that's good about life. Autumn arrives in a blaze of color, while winter has its own quiet sense of beauty. Sun, 18 May 2008 16:45:32 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/137034/wine-travel-maine-a-delight-for-wine-lovers.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/131714/winery-tours-how-to-taste-wine-in-seven-steps.htm With over 6000 wineries across the United States, there are ample opportunities for wine lovers to tour and taste. With the addition of several new wine trails across the country in the past few years, more and more people are enjoying visits to wineries. Did you know that every state in the U.S. now has at least one winery? Sun, 04 May 2008 14:24:39 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/131714/winery-tours-how-to-taste-wine-in-seven-steps.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/131662/wine-travel-michigans-natural-bounty.htm For over 100 years, southwestern Michigan has been a weekend getaway haven. With its ample wide beaches and charming lakeside towns, this area of Michigan known as Harbor Country continues to lure weekend visitors. For the past 20 years, it's also been a popular destination for wine travel fans. Sun, 04 May 2008 08:07:11 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/131662/wine-travel-michigans-natural-bounty.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/118679/wine-travel-wineries-thrive-in-south-dakota.htm Sometimes wine sneaks up on you. But this story isn't what you might be thinking. If you love to travel like we do, you've learned to keep an open mind and experience what your destination offers. In the case of South Dakota, I'll readily admit we weren't seeking a wine travel experience. But it's funny how things work out sometimes. We weren't looking for South Dakota wine,... Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:42:56 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/118679/wine-travel-wineries-thrive-in-south-dakota.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/112645/wine-trails-rhode-island-a-surprising-wine-travel-destination.htm If you've never been to Rhode Island, let us be the first to encourage you to visit. Simply put, Rhode Island is unforgettable. Often nicknamed "America's First Resort" tiny Rhode Island is much more. Its climate is tempered by the Atlantic Ocean, and there are miles upon miles of breathtaking beaches (and views) to savor and enjoy. Sun, 23 Mar 2008 08:39:30 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/112645/wine-trails-rhode-island-a-surprising-wine-travel-destination.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/109989/wine-travel-carolina-on-my-mind.htm Being a lifelong student of history and geography, I've always been drawn to places that offer a sense of historical pride and geographical diversity. Quite possibly there's no state which offers more of both than North Carolina. North Carolina is a study in contrasts. And through the course of experiencing those contrasts, more than a few very pleasant surprises await. Sun, 16 Mar 2008 17:21:04 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/109989/wine-travel-carolina-on-my-mind.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/105933/wine-travel-now-available-near-you-on-a-u-s-wine-trail.htm If you're looking for a unique weekend getaway, complete with beautiful lush scenery, rolling hills, and wine tasting, consider traversing one of the many U.S. wine trails. Did you know that each of the 50 states now has at least one active winery? In fact, many wineries are clustered together in certain geographical areas conducive to grape growing and wine making. Sat, 08 Mar 2008 15:35:26 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/105933/wine-travel-now-available-near-you-on-a-u-s-wine-trail.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/105931/wine-refrigerators-five-questions-to-ask-before-buying.htm With an ever growing interest in all things wine, wine lovers have a wide array of accessories and storage options to enhance their wine experience. New stylish wine accesssories are continually introduced as wine affecionados seek out the best ways to share and enjoy serving wine. Let's take a look at wine storage, a very important aspect of wine enjoyment. Sat, 08 Mar 2008 15:27:27 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/105931/wine-refrigerators-five-questions-to-ask-before-buying.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/105209/wine-travel-discover-arizonas-wine-country.htm The beautiful Sonoran desert area of southern Arizona has long been a destination for travelers seeking a warm comfortable climate and ample sightseeing opportunities. The vibrant Tucson metro area offers a delightful mixture of culture and world class arts, but few know that just a short one hour drive away brings you to the heart of Arizona Wine Country. Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:54:29 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/105209/wine-travel-discover-arizonas-wine-country.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/104614/indoor-fruit-trees-calamondin-oranges-a-good-choice.htm If you're searching for just the right citrus tree to grow indoors, you have several choices. Far and away the most common is the Meyer Lemon Tree, but there are several lesser known citrus trees that will thrive indoors. One such tree is the calamondin orange, which is not as well known by gardeners but is quite easy to care for and bears prolific crops of fruit. Wed, 05 Mar 2008 08:03:12 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/104614/indoor-fruit-trees-calamondin-oranges-a-good-choice.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/97905/spinning-classes-advantages-and-disadvantages.htm If you're a fan of spinning classes and indoor cycling, you no doubt appreciate the benefits of this non impact workout. Indoor cycling is an excellent cardiovascular workout that you can adapt to your fitness level. Further, these classes focus on eliminating stress via a fun, challenging environment. Thu, 21 Feb 2008 08:54:45 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/97905/spinning-classes-advantages-and-disadvantages.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/97799/new-camdorders-why-smaller-is-better.htm Several new camcorders recently introduced are appealing to the online video production niche. With user generated content revolutionizing the web, manufacturers are developing camcorders that make life easier for online videograhpers. If you're considering a new camcorder purchase, you'll likely see many new models that are much smaller, and more user friendly, than ever... Wed, 20 Feb 2008 15:10:07 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/97799/new-camdorders-why-smaller-is-better.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/97773/indoor-fruit-trees-5-tips-for-a-healthy-vibrant-tree.htm If you've discovered the joy of growing an indoor fruit tree, you're likely very pleased with their low maintenance. Just about anyone can grow these citrus trees in just about any living space. Their fragrant blossoms and sweet delicious fruit make them a welcome addition to any home. Wed, 20 Feb 2008 13:08:40 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/97773/indoor-fruit-trees-5-tips-for-a-healthy-vibrant-tree.htm http://www.artipot.com/articles/97691/new-hybrid-vehicles-tax-information-you-need.htm If you're considering buying a hybrid car or truck, you'll be happy to know that the U.S. government offers certain tax incentives for your purchase. The Energy Policy Act provides a tax credit for those who purchase certain energy efficient vehicles. Since that act passed, it's been up to auto manufacturers to certify to the Internal Revenue Service that certain passenger... Wed, 20 Feb 2008 07:57:28 +0000 http://www.artipot.com/articles/97691/new-hybrid-vehicles-tax-information-you-need.htm