Joining the Festivities in El Paso

Thursday, April 3rd, 2014

El Paso is our fifth stop on our Texas tour. Laying just on the edge of the Rio Grande, El Paso natives are not about to let a little occasional flooding stop them from enjoying all that El Paso has to offer.

Never a Dull Day in El Paso!

El Paso hosts quite a few annual festivals for music, arts, and film. There’s the Neon Desert Music Festival, Texas Showdown Festival, Plaza Classic Film Festival, Sun City Music Festival, and the El Paso Downtown Street Festival.

Of course, you want to be able to hit up all these amazing events, but occasionally annoying service repair jobs get in the way. You’ve gotta fix up your car, repair that cracked window pane on the second floor, or rewire your basement lights.

The last thing you want to do is miss the single day of Neon Desert Music Festival to fix these problems! You want to get it done and you want to get it done fast.

Get the Help You Need, When You Need It

Well, Seva Call is the fastest, easiest way to get connected to a local service professional to do the job for you. Check out this quick video to see just what we do.

Seva Call works like this: When you go online to www.talklocal.com, we’ll ask you to put in a few simple details about your service job, your location, and your availability. We will take this information and find the most compatible service professional in your area. Then, we will put you directly on the phone with them. It takes just 90 seconds and saves you from searching online and staying on the phone with unreliable companies.

We will only connect you to the best professionals who we review based on a variety of quality metrics. We won’t reveal any contact information to these companies in order to protect you from telemarketers and spam.

So, El Paso? How does that sound? Ready to start the party with Seva Call?

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3 Ways to Get Fit and Stay Fit for the New Year

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

The new year is well under way, and you resolved to stay fit and eat healthy! But unlike last year, it’s actually going to stick. Here are 3 ways to get fit and stay fit for the new year.

Start with Small Goals

When a new year begins, do you set high weight loss goals and eventually lose that momentum by the end of the year? The truth is, setting extremely high goals with strict guidelines does set you back in the long run. Your unreasonable goals may cause you to give up early.

You can lose more weight without feeling deprived from your favorite foods or feeling tired and sore from workouts by adding small changes to your daily routine that increase exercise and improve diet.

Then, when 2015 comes around, maybe you won’t be inventing new weight loss goals for you to quit!

Cardio

You may already know that weight loss occurs when you burn more calories than you take in. Cardio exercise is a great way to burn calories. Cardio doesn’t have to involve running on a treadmill or going to the gym.

Walking your dog, participating in a Zumba class, or even mowing the lawn can burn hundreds of calories. Start off with 3 to 4 days of low-intensity cardio exercise each week, and build your way up to 5 to 6 days of high-intensity cardio.

Portion Control

Losing weight doesn’t mean you have to cut out your favorite foods! By monitoring your portion control, you can still indulge in your favorite ice cream or muffin.

WebMD states that Americans underestimate how many calories they consume each day by as much as 25%. The Nutrition Facts label on all packaged foods contains a serving size. First, look at the label and try to stick with the suggested serving size. Eventually, your body will adjust to eating smaller portions.

Need Fitness Advice?

Losing weight on your own isn’t easy! Personal trainers can give you personalized diet and exercise advice in order to complete your goals. Find your local personal trainer using TalkLocal. We’ll connect you with up to three local trainers in just minutes!

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Why Can’t I Delete a File?

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

Not being able to delete a file can get really annoying. The worst part is that, you don’t know why it won’t get deleted!

If you’re asking yourself, “why can’t I delete a file?”, here are some answers that may help you out.

“Why Can’t I Delete A File?!”

There can be many reasons as to why you are not able to delete a file. The most common reason is that it is probably being used by another program while you are trying to delete it.

In order to check for this, open Task Manager by pressing Control+Alt+Delete (to open the Windows menu) or Control+Shift+Escape (to open the Task manager directly). Under the Tasks tab, you will be able to see which programs and folders are currently running. You will also be able to close any programs that may be using a file you wish to delete.

If this doesn’t work, you can use the recovery console. Put the OS CD into your drive and boot up your computer. When the set-up screen appears, press ‘R’ for recovery console. You should now be able to navigate to the file and delete it.

If this also doesn’t work, you can use Unlocker,which is a very useful freeware which unlocks any file being used by windows. Once the file has been unlocked with Unlocker, you can delete it.

If you do not recognize a particular file, and you are not able to delete it using any of these methods, there is a chance that the file was planted on your computer by a virus or malicious software. Run a trusted malware program to check.

Having File Trouble?

If you need further help with deleting a file on your computer, you might want to speak with a professional computer technician. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three computer experts in your area over the phone. Then, you can choose which professional you would like to speak with. Try TalkLocal now!

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Why Install Granite Mailbox Post?

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

Usually, when people mention granite, what they have in mind are stylish and expensive kitchen countertops. However, granite is so much more versatile and can actually be used outside of the house right in your yard to boost your home’s curb appeal.

You can incorporate granite in your yard in several ways, without having to do a major landscape makeover. Some wonderful granite additions include granite benches, steps, and even birdbaths. One easy way to add a classy touch to your yard would be to install granite mailbox post to replace your existing wooden or metal one.

Benefits of Granite

After this winter, there’s no better time to fully appreciate the reasons why you would want to install a granite mailbox post. With a granite post, you no longer have to worry about the snowplows destroying your mailbox, which is obviously a risk with wooden posts. Obviously, granite makes an extremely durable mailbox post. It’s a hard rock with coarse grains and consists of interconnecting minerals. Once you install a granite mailbox post properly, it’s meant to be there in your front yard for good.

Aside from being naturally beautiful, granite weathers remarkably well over time. Moreover, granite requires very little upkeep and maintenance. So, it stays undamaged by ice melting substances, like mineral rock salt and melting crystals. To clean your granite mailbox post, simply brush it with a stiff scrub brush and soapy water.

Buying a Granite Mailbox Post

Most people have a mistaken belief that anything made of granite is pricey. In the case of granite mailbox posts, this is simply not true. They can be affordable if you buy from a large producer of granite products. Although light gray is the typical color associated with granite, it is actually available in other colors such as dark gray, almost black, and light shades of pink. There are also various options when it comes to finishes, including the standard rough or thermal finish, rock face, or sawed. Your granite supplier may also offer custom lettering to add your street number or family name on your mailbox post.

Let a Pro Install Your Granite Mailbox Post

If you would like to ensure proper mailbox post installation, call a professional handyman. TalkLocal will search for and connect you with three professionals who can install your mailbox post the right way. Try our easy-to-use and free service now!

Tags: Granite Mailbox Post
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Finding a Great Tailored Shirt

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

Both men and women who want to look very professional at work invest a whole lot of money in custom-made shirts. Most people are asking themselves the following question: How could I find the most talented designer and the most appealing tailored shirt designed to look amazing for the longest period of time, without burning deep holes in my pocket?

Pay attention to the Most Important Elements

If you don’t want to shop from commercial designers and you’d rather opt for services provided by a local tailor, focus your entire attention on a few elements that make the difference between a trendy, well-made shirt and a disposable one:

a) Fabrics

b) Accessories

c) Product design

d) Style counseling

Undoubtedly, it is important to contact a specialist who designs beautiful shirts manufactured from premium materials. Choose the best fabrics by using the following selection criteria:

– Fabric color

– Weave (Poplin, Oxford, Dobby, Linen)

– Fabric pattern (stripes, checks, solid, prints)

– Thread counts (60-80, 80-100, 100-120, 120-140, 160, and 200)

Go for Fabulous Designs and a Perfect Fit

Most importantly, a shirt should accentuate your best features and fit you perfectly. Choose to collaborate with a tailor who will always offer you free alterations or the possibility to exchange your suit within the first 2 months after your purchase. Moreover, ask your tailor to send you some of his/her best fabric samples to help you make the most inspired decision.

Ask for Help

If you want to take pride in a fashionable, highly resistant, custom-made tailored shirt, it is advisable to talk to a real pro in this line of work. Call the best tailors and compare their services with help from TalkLocal, a free service allowing you to meet competent specialists who live and work in your area.

Tags: Tailor Shirt
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Inground Pool Cleaners vs. Professional Cleaning Services

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

A swimming pool is one of the most enjoyable areas you can have in your own home. It’s an indulgence that can be enjoyed by your entire family and your guests. However, it requires certain responsibilities. It must be cleaned, maintained, and serviced regularly. Otherwise, you can have major problems with your pool and it won’t be fun using it at all.

More than Basic Cleaning

Now, you may think that’s what inground pool cleaners are for. This equipment is a good investment, but it is certainly not enough to maintain your pool. You also have to keep the correct chemical balance of your pool water and have certain pool equipment, like the pump and filter, serviced periodically.

A professional cleaner can do much more than what a robot can. A professional cleaner would be able to handle other important chores, such as balancing the water chemistry of your pool. Pump and filter inspection is also part of regular pool cleaning service, which is vital in keeping your pool in good condition.

Ensure Thorough Cleaning

While inground pool cleaners do a relatively good job of cleaning a pool, they usually don’t get every square foot of the surface area on the initial cycle. Hiring a professional cleaning service is an important part of any pool maintenance program because it ensures a more thorough removal of debris, grime, and particulate buildup from the water. It’s just like how home carpet cleaning differs from professional cleaning.

Check for Problems

Inground pool cleaners may crawl along the entire floor of your pool, but they will not be able to inspect it for leaks or any cracked tiles. Professionals would be able to do this and recommend a solution.

Bottom Line

The bottom line is that purchasing pool cleaning equipment is perfectly fine. Professional cleaners use their own tools and devices to do their job. However, you cannot rely completely on using equipment such as inground pool cleaners to keep your pool clean and safe throughout the year.

If you’re wondering where to find a good pool cleaning service, TalkLocal can help with your search. Contact us now and we’ll connect you with professional cleaners who provide the quality services that you need.

Posted in Maid Services, talklocal | No Comments »

Snow Tires Effectiveness

Tuesday, April 1st, 2014

If you want to drive safely during the cold season, it is highly advisable to invest in durable, high-quality snow tires (also called winter tires) launched on the market by some of the most respectable manufacturers. Do your homework properly to learn how to assess snow tires effectiveness and make an informed decision.

Why Do I Need Snow Tires in the First Place?

You may be tempted to think that people who do not live in areas impacted by harsh winters and abundant snowfalls do not need to purchase and install snow tires. In this case, you are wrong. Snow tires ensure safer, more enjoyable trips and help you get from point A to point B faster and with minimal effort, because they keep a strong grip on icy surfaces or on surfaces covered with snow. In other words, snow tires offer you the certainty that you won’t be stuck and enable you to steer and stop in a risk-free manner.

Do I Really Need to Replace My All-Season Tires during the Cold Season?

If you don’t want to take any chances, the answer is yes. If you have to drive on a daily basis in all kinds of weather conditions, winter tires should be considered a must-have. You should know that snow tires effectiveness varies a great deal according to several factors including quality, technology used in the manufacturing process, tread, and tire pressure.

Ask an Expert

To maximize the effectiveness of your tires, check your tire pressure regularly and make sure it meets the guidelines that come with your automobile. Reducing your tire pressure won’t help you profit from a better grip on icy surfaces — this is just a myth. Moreover, when it comes to installing a new set of tires, place the ones with a better tread on the rear of your car; this will enable you to prevent accidents.

If you need more info on snow tires effectiveness, just consult a snow removal expert. Find the best one in your area with TalkLocal, a free service created to help you track competent, local specialists in no time.

Tags: Snow Tire Effectiveness
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Booking Limo Services

Tuesday, April 1st, 2014

When you’re looking to book a limo, you’ll most likely want to book the limo ahead of time. In general, you should always be searching for a limo at least 3 to 4 weeks ahead of the event for which it is needed. However, a couple of factors can influence how far ahead of time you’ll want to book your limo, such as the time of the year and the type of event.

Read these tips on booking limo services to ensure that you get the service you need, when you need it.

Type of Event

This is perhaps the biggest factor you’ll want to consider, as weddings and other large events that depend on limousines need to be sorted out far ahead of time.

For wedding limos, some people book as far as 12-18 months in advance while for prom limos, people book between two and three months in advance. As long as you book far enough in advance, you can almost be certain you’ll have a limo ready for your big event. If you wait too long, you may be subject to expensive fees for last-minute scheduling, or be left with no limo at all!

Time of the Year

Different events tend to be clustered around certain times of the year. There are really two peak times during which limo services are heavily booked: prom season and wedding season. The spring season is prom season for most schools and the early summer is the usual wedding season, making it really difficult to find a limo on short notice during these times.

You’ll want to book at least two months in advance to be safe. However, during off-peak times, you can most likely book just one week ahead of time if you’re just looking for a birthday event on a weekend or a simple event.

Need to Find a Limo?

If you’re looking to schedule a limo soon, TalkLocal can help you out! TalkLocal will do all the work of calling the companies for you, allowing you to talk to companies who already know your situation and can you help you right away! It’s fast, cheap, and you’ll be sure that you have a quality limo service for your event as soon as possible!.

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Which Type of RAM Do I Need?

Tuesday, April 1st, 2014

So your computer is running slowly. You need a new RAM. But what is a RAM?

RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is a type of memory that is independently stored from your hard drive and designed for an entirely operational use – it does not store any direct forms of data.

Types of RAM and Differences

Okay, so which type of RAM do I need?

There are two types of RAM: DRAM and SRAM. DRAM stands for Dynamic Random Access Memory. SRAM stands for Static Random Access Memory.

DRAM is a type of memory that needs to be continuously refreshed while the SRAM does not require the constant update. Because of this, the SRAM is faster than the DRAM.

More specifically, DRAMs generally feature an access time (process time) of 60 nanoseconds while the SRAMs generally feature an access time of 10 nanoseconds. SRAMs are, on average, about six times as fast as DRAMs.

SRAMs are also much more expensive than DRAMs. Therefore, in most computers designed for home or office use, you will find that DRAM is used. This is also likely the type that you need for your computer.

Finding the Specific Model for Your Computer

Different computer models require different RAM models. Generally, it is recommended to look up your computer brand and the model number online to find which RAM model you need. You can also just write down the information and bring the information to a computer technician, who can find the correct model for you.

Do you need to find a technician near you for help? TalkLocal can help with finding the correct local experts to help you in this case, saving you time and energy in what may be a stressful situation.

Posted in Computer Repair, Seva Team, talklocal | No Comments »

Mount New Mailbox

Tuesday, April 1st, 2014

Mailboxes serve a practical purpose and influence the curb appeal of any home. This is precisely why they should be carefully installed by homeowners. Do you want to mount a new mailbox on your own? In this case, check out the following guidelines to simplify your task.

Check out the mailbox guidelines offered by the United States Postal Service

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has a very specific set of rules and recommendations that you should follow, if you plan to replace your old, deteriorated mailbox with a newer model. First, you should know that there are two main types of mailboxes: wall-mounted ones and post (or roadside) mailboxes.

The USPS advises homeowners to position their roadside mailboxes up to 45” off the ground, to enable the carrier to deliver mail easily without having to get out of their trucks. Wall-mounted mailboxes should be placed up to 4’ off the ground, to ensure easy access from your steps or sidewalk.

Getting Started

If you want to install a post mailbox, follow these simple steps.

1) Contact your utility company to make sure that you won’t start digging in an area where electrical wires or plumbing pipes are buried.

2) Dig a 1-foot deep hole.

3) Maintain your post in a straight position using two wood stakes and string and then fill the cavity with a concrete mix and let it dry, then remove the string and the two stakes.

4) Attach your new mailbox by simply following the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you plan to install a wall-mounted mailbox, start by identifying the perfect spot for it. Remember that the new mailbox should be positioned in the center area of your wall. Use a level to install it in the correct position. Afterwards, mount it on your wall by using a screwdriver. The whole process is simple and hassle-free.

3) Ask an Expert

Can’t mount the new mailbox on your own? If so, choose to hire a competent handyman. Find the best ones in your area by consulting TalkLocal, your #1 specialist when it comes to identifying A-list professionals who operate in your proximity.

Tags: DIY, mailbox
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