From Couch Potatoes To Computer Spuds
From Business briefs, August 31, 1999: Clarification: A Web site address was inadvertently omitted from a report on casino-related advice in the www.you column of Monday’s Business page. The address is www.americancasinoguide.com.
Playing games on computers is pulling couch potatoes from in front of their TV sets and affecting other so-called passive forms of entertainment.
It’s even cutting into the time that hard-core gamers spend surfing the Internet.
Those are among the findings of a new study on “Computer Gaming in America Wave III.”
When asked which activities they spent less time doing since starting gaming, some 37 percent of the study’s respondents indicated “watching TV.”
Other activities being displaced by computer gaming are exercising (16 percent) and dating (15 percent), followed by seeing relatives, surfing the Internet and outdoor activities.
For those who still find time to surf the Net, here are a few sites that may be worth exploring:
Look before leaping: It’s a jungle out there in cyberland.
The number of e-commerce sites pitching everything from books and CDs to cars and home electronics has blossomed as retailers rush to cash in on the biggest new sales opportunity in decades.
What’s a consumer to do?
A visit to this free Web site may help put things in perspective. Its stated goal is to “empower and educate consumers to become successful online shoppers.”
http://www.e-buyersguide.com
Group therapy: The initial joys of parenthood can wear a little thin by the time infants become toddlers.
For those who could benefit from a virtual group hug of sorts, there’s this Web site.
It bills itself as the place for “news and features to educate, inspire and connect parents of children ages one and two.” Other highlights include topical message boards and e-mail lists, even a few fun things to do — for those with time for such diversions.
http://www.toddlerstoday.com
Life’s a gamble: The odds are good that lots of end-of-summer getaways will lead to Las Vegas, Atlantic City or any of the scores of tribal and mini-casinos that dot the landscape.
Before risking their hard-earned dollars, gamblers — especially novices — may wish to visit this Web site, which includes rules and strategies for blackjack, craps, roulette and other games, tips on how to play and slot machine payback information, as well as a directory of U.S. casinos.
When it comes to guaranteeing that the advice will tip the scales in your favor, all bets are off.
http:// www.americancasinoguide.com