Queen of PAWNS

Queen of Pawns - Central Florida

3380 south military trail

407-201-3930

All Our Stores are Open:
Monday - Saturday 9am - 7pm
Sunday 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Monday, October 14, 2013

Home Video Consoles - The Way They Were

In today’s market, the current home video console contenders are Nintendo, Sony’s PlayStations and Microsoft’s Xboxes. All of which you can find at any of Queen of PAWNS’ five locations*. Next week we will take a closer look at these three consoles comparing their operations to help you find which suits your entertainment needs best. In the meantime, let’s take a walk down memory lane. Are you ready? Because this can be a real trip.

Before the 1970’s there wasn’t much happening for home video games. The technology was being developed but really only looked like blips on special screens. In 1967 a German-born television engineer and his team designed the first video-game that worked on a standard television. There were a total of 12 games and a light gun accessory added to what they called the Brown Box. In 1972, Brown Box was the prototype for the Magnavox Odyssey - the first commercial video-game console. The Odyssey was still very basic and had overlays that were applied to the television screen to create different playing environments.

Most of us, whether we were around in the 70’s or not are familiar with the name “Atari.” It was pretty much the company that put home video games on the map. But before making home consoles, Atari manufactured arcade games. Founded in 1972, Atari made the arcade game Pong. It was a tennis game with a very pixelated, square shaped ball bouncing off of narrow, rectangular paddles that were controlled by players and could only be moved vertically. Three years later, Atari released Home Pong. It was ground breaking for home game consoles and the first entertainment system to keep score of the game. In 1977 Nintendo released their own Pong game and was the first console that was in color. That same year Atari released the revolutionary Atari 2600. Realizing a single game system’s popularity cannot last, Atari was the first manufacturer to produce a cartridge based system that could play multiple games. The system was an enormous hit with games like Space Invaders, Breakout, Combat and Pitfall. There was also the option of two different controllers to correlate with the games. Mattel stepped threw in their two cents in 1979 with their home console, Intellivision. Better graphics, hardware and a synthesized voice made this system the first serious threat to Atari.

1982 brought us Colecovision which came with Donkey Kong as it’s release title. Did you catch that? Donkey Kong is a Nintendo creation...this was back when Nintendo only made games. That was, until 1985 when they were only game developers no longer and released the Nintendo Entertainment System. It had the largest game library of the time and has come to be the best selling console of video game history. At the same time, Sega released their Master System, which played a big part in the slow fade of Atari and Coleco.

The next huge and global success for home consoles was the Super Nintendo in 1991. At this point, Sega Genesis and Nintendo are in the lead and brutal competitors. Nintendo had Mario Brothers and Sega invented Sonic the Hedgehog. Before long, Sega started to lose traction, giving Nintendo the opportunity to come out on top.

An event worth appreciating was in 1993, when Nintendo wanted to incorporate disc technology into their systems and hooked up with Sony. Together, these two birthed the first PlayStation. That’s right, Nintendo was part of the creating team for what has come to be known as PS4. The console, however, was released as a Sony product. Here, we get to see three dimensional gameplay for the first time. It was also the first time that a console fully utilized disc drives. Nintendo went on to release Nintendo 64 in 1996, the last mass market system to use cartridges. The company went on to develop hand held games very successfully and more recently, the Nintendo Wii home consoles.

Backwards compatibility - the ability to play older games from previous generation consoles within the same manufacturer - becomes a feature in 2000 with Sony’s PS2. It also introduced the concept of a complete home media system by playing DVD’s. With the PS2, we begin to see the rise in popularity of console games being played with high speed internet connections.

Where’s Microsoft in all of this? You might be wondering. In 2001, Microsoft steps into the ring with their console known as the Xbox. Since then, it has been PlayStation, Nintendo and Xbox dominating the home video scene.

We hope you enjoyed your stroll through video game nostalgia. Come back next week when Queen of PAWNS talks about the different generations within each of today’s manufacturers and their major differences.

*Call the QoP nearest you to check inventory when looking for something specific.

“A History of Video Game Consoles” a slide show by TIME Magazine online

Joakim Selfors, “The History of Video Game Consoles,” a documentary film

were referenced in the writing of this article.

Queen of Pawns - South Florida

Queen of Pawns - Central Florida

http://www.trendhunter.com/keynote/video-games-benefits-keynote

407-201-3930

All Our Stores are Open:
Monday - Saturday 9am - 7pm
Sunday 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Sunday, October 6, 2013

Why Would You Let Your Kids Play Video Games??

Parenting is experiencing a new split - the parents who abolish and those who allow video games. If you believe that video games are just a waste of time, read on - this article may be very helpful for you.

And for the “older” video gamers out there, we’re here to tell you that they are not just for kids any more. As a matter of fact, 70% of gamers are 33 years old. So if you’re an adult guilty of partaking in this kind of entertainment, you don’t have to hide your love for these virtual realities any longer - you’re in good company. This month, Queen of PAWNS will be focusing our topics on video games; their place in our culture, the history of home gaming consoles, comparing consoles and discussing what’s hot in the world of gaming.

Some people have strong opinions around the suggestion that video games make you smarter and even healthier. We’ve done a good amount of reading on this subject, and we have come across a few very compelling scientists who back up that statement.

Laboratory research has shown that certain types of games increase fluid intelligence (the ability to problem solve in unfamiliar situations - which is necessary for innovation) and when played repeatedly over time, even increase gray matter...as in makes your brain bigger. Perhaps a bigger brain doesn't necessarily make one smarter, but we’re guessing that it would. Gaming & video games, especially of the fast paced, high action ilk, enhance attentional control and reflexes. As for healthier - again, laboratory testing has proven that certain video games (when played in moderation) help combat depression and assist in pain management. They also increase our ability to see more varying shades of gray. That's kinda important when it comes to driving. Games and video gaming of all kinds, when played with other players enhances compatibility and cooperation skills and if you're playing something like Nintendo’s Wii, well that's more activity than reading a book. One researcher we came across made this analogy: equally, are the effects of (video) games on the brain as wine is to health. Too much of either creates complications but just the right amount of video games or wine has scientifically proven to have benefit.

Just to throw in a little controversy: yes, even the violent games make us smarter. However, they can also desensitize us from the atrocities of violent acts. There are plenty of other game options out there that provide benefits without playing the shoot 'em kill 'em games. Luckily, we have the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) that rates most all games and lets buyers know what to expect before purchasing a specific software. Ratings run from eC, for games geared toward an early childhood audience to Ao for adults only. Learn more about this third party rating system at esrb.org. Just as reading, playing outside and practicing an instrument, the use of video games is proving to be more and more important in developing a well rounded person. One article we came across cited a 2010 report by the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) proclaiming that children need more, not less video game play. FAS says that “games can teach higher-order thinking skills, interpretive analysis, problem solving and adaptation to rapid change.” Therefore, this type of interface is being increasingly used as an educational tool. The most obvious example of that is the military’s use of flight simulators - those too are video games. Like we said, video games are not just for kids anymore.

One presenter that we watched in our research said, “We like people better after we play a game with them.” Think about that, it’s true. Remember the days of “Yahtzee”, “Sorry!” or “Monopoly”? those are still classic, healthy, family bonding activities. Now available to us is an even a broader selection of activity and entertainment that has several benefits beyond a fun way to pass time. So, lighten up, get smarter and healthier with a fun video game!

Daphne Bavelier’s Video Game Benefits Keynote Debunks Common Myths

TED Talks Jane McGonigal: Gaming Can Make a Better World

http://www.ted.com/talks/jane_mcgonigal_gaming_can_make_a_better_world.html

The Benefits of Video Games, ABC News Blog, December 26, 2011

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/technology/2011/12/the-benefits-of-video-games/

Entertainment Software Rating Board www.ESRB.org

Keynote Gabe Zichermann at TNW2012, “Why Video Games Make You Smarter”

and personal experience were referenced in the writing of this article.

Queen of Pawns - South Florida

3380 south military trail

Queen of Pawns - Central Florida

3380 South Military Trail

407-201-3930

All Our Stores are Open:
Monday - Saturday 9am - 7 pm
Sunday 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Monday, September 30, 2013

Let’s Talk About Identity Theft

Have you noticed increases of identity theft reported in the news and within online articles? Everyone knows that this can create financial havoc for the victim of such a crime. But it seems that not everyone knows how to protect themselves or what to do if their identity is compromised. We at Queen of PAWNS would like to drop a few suggestions and encourage you to take action and protect yourself from being a victim.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT

Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, write, “See ID,” or “Photo ID Required.”
If you write checks, NEVER have your social security or telephone numbers printed on them. If there is a case where a payee needs that information, you can add it discriminately. Also when writing checks to pay on credit card accounts, only write the last four digits of your account number on the “Memo” line. An example would be, “Account # ending in 1234.”
Photocopy the contents of your wallet, front and back. This includes your driver’s license, insurance and credit cards. This way, if your wallet is stolen, you know what was in it AND you have the toll free numbers for your credit cards. Be sure to keep these photocopies in a safe place.
Photocopy your passport. While traveling, carry a copy of the passport with you and leave additional copies in a safe place.
Get a cross-cut paper shredder and use it! Shred bank statements and any documents that contain your name, birthdate, account numbers, health insurance policy numbers and social security numbers before throwing them in the trash or recycling.
Do not carry your social security card with you.
Be sure you are dealing with reputable health care providers and be wary when offered free medical services.

REMEMBER TO PROTECT YOUR CHILDREN

Since children are not applying for credit cards or home loans, it could take several years before a breach in identity security is detected. With the new school year upon us, many parents are filling out mounds of paper work for their young students. Be cautious when documents request the child’s social security number. One article in the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel suggests that you ask what is going to be done with that information, why is the child’s social security number being requested, who will see it and how will it be protected.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR IDENTITY IS AT RISK OR COMPROMISED

If your wallet was stolen, file a police report in the jurisdiction where the incident happened immediately.
Whether your credit cards are lost or stolen, notify your credit card companies. (You already have their toll free numbers on those photocopies you made, remember?)
Alert the three national credit reporting agencies. This enforces that a company must contact you by phone to authorize any new credit.

Equifax 1.800.525.6285
Experian 1.888.397.3742
Trans Union 1.800.680.7289

Also call the Social Security Administration’s fraud line: 1.800.269.0271.
Report lost or stolen health insurance identification cards immediately. Medical identity theft is also a growing problem. Prevent unauthorized use of your health benefits by remembering to call your insurance providers. This information should also have been photocopied.

Another precaution that is also responsible accounting is to check your credit report at least once a year. It will help you keep a clear perspective on your credit and is a great tool to monitor any unauthorized activity with your information. Free credit reports are available to anyone once every 12 months at https://www.annualcreditreport.com/.

The Federal Trade Commission, an agency created to protect consumers, says that there a four simple ways to protect your personal information from the risk of identity theft: know who you share information with; store and dispose of your personal information securely, especially your Social Security number; ask questions before deciding to share your personal information; and maintain appropriate security on your computers and other electronic devices.

Part of our purpose as a pawn shop is to assist people with their finances. Your financial health is important to us and we find this issue to warrant discussion. Please take this information, share it with your friends and family and do further research in ways to protect yourself from identity theft.

“Kids at Risk for Identity theft 1^st week of class” Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel Sept. 1 20013. By Pamela Yip, The Dallas Morning News

“Medical identity theft could cost you your life” Herb WeisbaumNBC News contributor, Sep. 12, 2013

The Federal Trade Commission website at http://www.consumer.ftc.gov

and personal experience were referenced in the writing of this article.

Queen of Pawns - South Florida

Queen of Pawns - Central Florida

3380 South Military Trail

407-201-3930

All Our Stores are Open:
Monday - Saturday 9am - 7 pm
Sunday 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Yes, Cars Too

Usually people only think of using their car as collateral for a bank loan. Today, we want to remind you that Queen of PAWNS also accepts cars and other vehicles as collateral. If you are in need of instant money and you have the title to your car, we can help. To get a loan on your vehicle, make sure the title is clean, clear and current. There must be no lien notations for a certificate of title to be acceptable. Florida law forbids pawnshops from issuing title loans; this means that for the duration of the loan, we will need to keep possession of both the title and the vehicle. Any keys or remotes that open/lock doors and start engines are also required. Our appraisal and offer is based on the results of a title check, visual inspection, test drive, and pricing from the Kelley Blue Book. Your vehicle will be safely stored and kept at one of our locations.

Of course, this means that we sell cars as well. Cars that are for sale are clearly marked on the windshield - much like what you would see at a car dealership. Before being put out on the lot and marked for sale, all vehicles are thoroughly inspected by a mechanic and pampered with a full wash and detail. Although QoP does not offer financing, you can put a car or vehicle on layaway. With only a 10% deposit of the price you can take advantage of our layaway option. In this case, the car would remain in our possession until it is paid in full. There are no extra fees or charges for putting a vehicle on layaway.

If you are in the market to purchase a used vehicle, come by any of our stores and see what we have.* Buying a car from Queen of PAWNS is only one more way to buy smart.

*When looking for something specific, call the QoP location nearest you to check on current inventory.

Queen of Pawns - South Florida

Queen of Pawns - Central Florida

3380 South Military Trail

407-201-3930

All Our Stores are Open:
Monday - Saturday 9am - 7 pm
Sunday 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Saturday, September 14, 2013

Changing the Pawn Paradigm

par·a·digm [par-uh-dahym, -dim] noun an example serving as a model; pattern. Synonyms: mold, standard; ideal, paragon, touchstone. (Dictionary.com)

Some people still haven’t caught on. They remain trapped in the deconstructive programming that only brand new or department store purchases hold value. An equally punitive way of thinking is that pawn shops are seedy, dingy establishments of unethical business transactions. Queen of PAWNS is not the first but is in good company of classy pawn shops that are changing the paradigm of pawn. All kinds of people from all walks of life use and benefit from our services as a pawn shop. At our stores we see people as people - some have very modest earnings or lifestyles and others have financial wealth with extravagant tastes. Bottom line is, pawning is smart money, no matter the size of your wallet.

How the Rich Stay Rich

Most of us wish we had more money. Often, it’s not about making more money but rather spending what money we have more wisely. Look at how many broke lottery winners we have in this country. Jennifer Derrick, financial advisor from SavingAdvice.com writes in her entry Even the Wealthy Need a Budget, “Many people think that becoming wealthy they no longer have to budget. Those who want to remain wealthy and grow even more wealth continue to budget. Money is best managed when every dollar has a purpose. This is true whether you are just getting by or your last name is Trump.” Ask any accountant, the simplest way to maintain wealth is to spend less money.

We All Need “Stuff”

From cell phones to cars to computers, tools, jewelry, entertainment and sporting equipment - we live in a culture where we need “stuff.” At Queen of PAWNS we believe in never having to pay full retail price for the stuff you need and want. When you purchase from pawn, it is far more affordable - so you can get the stuff you need and still have room in your budget to get what you want. And truth is, no one needs a Rolex watch, what a person is paying for when they purchase a Rolex is status. Be the smart one who purchases that kind of status for thousands of dollars less than the poor chump who payed full price.

How Queen of PAWNS Is Changing the Paradigm

Our stores are beautiful, our staff is friendly and well informed and our merchandise is top quality. We think of pawn loans and pawn sales as smart ways to handle personal finances - for people of all tax brackets. Come on by and see what we mean when we say, “Be Smart, Buy Second Hand,” and catch on to the new paradigm of pawn.

Queen of Pawns - South Florida

Queen of Pawns - Central Florida