Re: Love Systems / Mystery Method Bootcamp on Dr. Phil With Pickup Artists

Strength Training Develops Solid Softball Players

Strength Training Develops Solid Softball Players
 by: Lynn VanDyke
Softball is a popular sport these days. Corporations, adult leagues and inner-city competitions are fueling the demand for skilled and competitive players. While softball may be experiencing a surge of interest, the basic techniques to improve your game and gain a competitive edge have remained the same.
Many do not realize that basic softball movements such as batting and throwing are not a directly related to arm strength. The movement begins in the legs. The power is then transferred into the hips, the torso, the upper back, the chest, the shoulders and then the arms.
A proper softball strength training routine will include an exercise for each muscle group. During the off-season, athletes will be able to strength train 2-3 times per week. Training should be reduced to 1-2 times per week during the season. Each exercise should be performed 8-12 times for 1-3 sets.
Quickness, speed, agility, balance, explosiveness, and power will be enhanced as the strength training program progresses. Below is a list of sample exercises for the commonly used muscles in softball. There are many other exercises you could perform, but this will provide a starting point.
Quadriceps- Squats, One-Legged Squats, Jump Squats
Hams & Glutes- Lunges, Explosive Lunges, Bridge on Ball
Hip Adductors/Abductors- Lying Side Leg Raises, Ball Squeeze
Obliques- Oblique Crunch on Ball
Rectus Abdominis- Ball Crunch, 180 Ball Crunch
Erector Spinae- Plank Pose
Deltoids- Shoulder Press, Military Press
Pectoralis Major- Chest Fly, Chest Press, Push ups
Latissimus Dorsi- Bent Over Row, Reverse Fly
Triceps- Overhead Extensions, Skull crushers
Biceps- Bicep Curl, Hammer Curl
A powerful softball strength training program will produce powerful players. Use a full ROM (range of motion) for each exercise. Generally free weights provide a better ROM than machines, but use which ever feels best to you. The ultimate goal is to create a solid program that will deliver a well-rounded athlete.
Copyright 2005 strength-training-woman.com


Can My Dog Get Flu? by: Jon Dunkerley In today's society with flu pandemics and such grabbing so much of the spotlight, it is easy for us to overlook the fact that our dogs can also contract a version of flu.
How To Load A Horse Into A Trailer - Easy As Pie! by: Andy Curry If there is an art to getting horses to load in a trailer, then this it.The first thing that must happen is communication between the horse and his handler. The horse must understand what is required of him and the handler must make it easy to understand.Thus, you must start by getting the horse to move forward in either direction.

Good Sleep Habits: A Key To Better Health!

Good Sleep Habits: A Key To Better Health!
 by: Ray Kelly
Most of us fail to get good nights sleep. As a result we run the risk of greatly increasing our susceptibility to disease and accidents. Getting a good night sleep is a minimum for a healthy life. For most people this amount needs to be around 6 to 8 hours each night. Anything less than that and you are sleeping too little and anything more than that and you are probably sleeping too much.
What is it that sleep does for us? The best way to think of sleep is as the body's form of "downtime". Just like our computers need to go offline in order to be repaired so must our bodies. During this "downtime" the body actually rebuilds tissue, grows bone and muscle and strengthens the immune system.
The truth is we really don't know everything that does happen in sleep just yet. However, we know enough to realize that without it the body deteriorates along with the mind.
Each night we cycle through three stages of sleep including light sleep, deep sleep and Rapid Eye Movement Sleep (REM). Each of these stages are vital but the last stage is especially vital. Deprivation of this final stage of sleep can seriously decrease our health and productivity and make us increasingly prone to accidents and systematic disorders.
During deep sleep brain activity that controls emotions, decision-making processes and social interaction shuts down. Though these areas become inactive other areas of our brain that are usually dormant come to life. It is also at this stage that cell growth and cell repair takes place. There is in fact some truth to the phrase "beauty sleep". Missing these vital areas of sleep deprives our body of the chance to revitalize our skin and organs.
Sleep is also integral in fighting off infection. As anybody who has been sick can attest the need for sleep increases when we are ill or bedridden. Part of the reason for this behavior is because our body is trying to shut down other aspects of our functioning in order to send much needed energy to our immune system and other parts of the body that help to fight off infection and sickness. This is a key step in the healing process. Depriving someone of sleep with a major illness can do serious damage to their long-term health.
The effects of sleep deprivation are many and varied. When we are deprived from sleep hallucinations and mood swings are usually the first effects we feel. There is also a general sense of irritability that pervades our waking mood when we are sleep deprived. Lack of sleep also affects our nervous system leaving us drowsy and unable to concentrate.
Lack of sleep is also a frequent contributor to the causes of vehicular accidents and all other types of accidents, many of which are fatal.
To make sure you get the most of your sleep try to develop some ritual before going to bed. By creating a routine you condition your body to prepare itself for sleep.
Avoid taking medicines since many of these prohibit the deepest levels of sleep, which are most necessary for our body.
Also avoid excessive stimulation two hours before sleep. This can cause your body to be unable to fall reach the state of deep relaxation needed to fall to sleep.
Find an amount of sleep that is right for you and allows your body to operate at maximum efficiency.


Its appealing restaurants, theme parks, shops, gaming and the world's greatest circus acts guarantees good fun for everyone. Best of all, it continues to be the value leader on the Las Vegas Strip.
Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica by: Clint Leung One of the ports of call for our Royal Caribbean cruiseship was Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Probably the most famous site in the region is Dunn's River Falls and we chose to tour it on our own rather than through one of the cruiseship tours.

Authenticity of Eskimo Inuit Art & Native Indian Art

Authenticity of Eskimo Inuit Art & Native Indian Art
 by: Clint Leung
Both Inuit Eskimo art and Native American art have gained international recognition as valuable art forms over the past few decades. However, the rising popularity of both Inuit Eskimo art and Native American art has resulted in the increased proliferation of imitations and mass-produced reproductions of original Native arts. Some obvious fakes are made in Asia from molds where the finished pieces are forms of plastic, resin or ceramic.
Other fakes are actually made of cast stone simulating actual Inuit Eskimo art carvings and wood for imitation Native American carvings. These fakes, which are harder to distinguish from authentic artwork, are often hand carved reproductions of an original piece of artwork. Workshops have illegally reproduced hundreds of copies without the artisan's permission. The counterfeiting companies would then attach some type of tag that claims the fake pieces were influenced by aboriginal artisans and even background information on the Native designs used in the artwork. Some even go as far as adding in Inuit syllabics on the bottom of the fake Inuit Eskimo art carvings.
These are very deceptive tactics on their part since they give the consumers the impression that the imitations are authentic and income producing for the aboriginal communities.
Fakes and imitations have lowered the image of authentic Inuit Eskimo art and Native American art. Sales of genuine aboriginal artwork have declined which in turn have deprived aboriginal artisans of income. The argument against these claims is that not every consumer can afford to buy authentic Inuit Eskimo art or Native American art so the souvenir level reproductions legitimately meet this part of the market. The imitations, which are usually low priced, enable students visiting Canada for example, to bring home a Canadian souvenir without breaking their travel budget. This claim would have more support from Native communities if aboriginal artisans were paid a fair royalty as income for each imitation and reproduction piece sold. However, this is seldom the case since most of the time, no royalties are paid at all.
The obvious fakes can be spotted quite easily. An imitation of an Inuit Eskimo art carving spotted at a gift shop was not made of stone as it was not cold to the touch. It was very light in weight unlike a stone which has some mass to it. The detail and the bottom of the piece had the molded look to it. There was even a sticker on the bottom with the company name Wolf Originals. Side by side comparisons of similar pieces in the souvenir store revealed that they were all identical in every detail, which is impossible for original artwork.
A black totem pole had a very flat uniform back and bottom again giving away the fact that it came from a mold. Other totem poles made from wood or mixed wood with a claim that they were hand painted were among many similar pieces in the store. All of these examples were each priced less than $20 Canadian which was another indicator that they were not original artwork.
Imitations of Inuit Eskimo art sculptures were recently spotted for sale in shops located at major Canadian airports. From a distance, these Inuit Eskimo art sculptures of hunters, polar bears and Inuit women with children looked very authentic. However, each piece had several identical copies on the same shelf.
To avoid accidentally buying a fake or imitation, it is suggested that consumers buy Inuit Eskimo art and Native American art from only reputable galleries and dealers rather than from tourist souvenir shops. A piece of original, authentic Inuit Eskimo art or Native American art is one of a kind. There should be no other identical pieces on the shelves. In addition, original Inuit Eskimo art carvings should come with an Igloo tag (or sticker) which is a Canadian government registered trademark. Inuit Eskimo art carvings that are certified by the Canadian government to be handmade by Inuit artisans, come with Igloo tags.


The sleep chaos can be minor, slight objectionable like restless leg syndrome to major nagged ones such as snoring, kicking and insomnia etc. An individual's mental as well as physical condition is accountable for the sleeping chaos.
Cruising Glacier Bay by: Jenna Grant You can watch movies about it, you can hear about it, you can read about it, but until you partake of it, you have no clue how thrilling it is to cruise Glacier Bay.

Las Vegas Centennial Party

Las Vegas Centennial Party
 by: Iulia Pascanu
Las Vegas turns 100 this year, on May 15th. Las Vegas Events (LVE) and Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) have a mega-party planned to last all the year round, debuting December 31st 2004.
Las Vegas accustomed those who happen to drop by and pay a visit just the last day of the year, with fireworks extravaganza, live music, multicolored lights and people celebrating in the street.
It is true, only a hundred years ago (that actually comply on 15th May 2005), Salt Lake Railroad Company was auctioning off a bunch of land-parcels, located just in the area that the modern reveler today knows as Fremont Street Experience.
Of course, this detail requests a special celebration, and Las Vegas people know about these things. They just decided to throw the biggest party in Las Vegas history. It started on December 31st 2004, and spans through the whole year of 2005.
Apparently, the highest concentration of events is planned throughout May, June and July 2005. Until then, there were a lot of pleasant things going on in the Valley for the New Year's Party.


Even Lassie Had Her Moments by: Chris Sutton Lassie! Now THERE'S a dog! If you said SIT, Lassie would sit. If you said FETCH, Lassie would fetch.
You can find them all over the country, but those four I have focused on South Germany, so that you do not have to travel hundreds of kilometres/miles and lose valuable time.I am sure you are hot to get to know them now, so I go straight forward to them:3. StuttgartStuttgart area has, believe it or not, seven (yes 7!) castles and palaces.

Yankees clobber Red Sox

New York Yankees' Jorge Posada, centre, greets Hideki Matsui (55) at the plate after Mark Teixeira, left, and Matsui scored on Posada's fourth-inning home run in New York on Thursday. (Kathy Willens/Associated Press)

The New York Yankees couldn't have picked a better time to take their first win over their biggest rivals this season.

The Bronx Bombers recorded an eight-run fourth inning to help them to a 13-6 win over the Boston Red Sox on Thursday.

New York's Jorge Posada and Melky Cabrera each contributed three-run homers in that inning to help their team win the first game of a key series between the two clubs.

The win gives the Yankees a 3ВЅ game lead in thei

Toronto FC focused on playoffs 1st, Real Madrid 2nd

Jim Brennan and Toronto FC host Real Madrid Friday in an international friendly. (Rene Johnston/Canadian Press)

It's not as though Toronto FC players aren't excited about their exhibition match Friday against Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid.

It's just that they have more pressing concerns right now, namely helping the team qualify for the Major League Soccer playoffs for the first time.

To be sure, Toronto players are enthusiastic about Friday's showdown at BMO Field against Real Madrid, the legendary Spanish side that boasts a roster of glittering superstars - Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo foremost among them.

But with Toronto mired in a slump and sitting in fourth place in the Eastern Conference, the Canadian club is more focused on making a strong playoff push as the season enters the home stretch.

"This game [against Madrid] is exciting, it's good for the fans, it's good for the players, but at the end of the day this is a friendly and our main objective is to get into the playoffs," Toronto captain Jim Brennan told reporters Thursday.

After missing out on the post-season in their first two years in the league, management, players and coaching staff were very optimistic at the start of the 2009 MLS campaign that this would be the year when the club would finally reward its loyal fans with a playoff appearance.

Toronto coach Chris Cummins is as excited as his players are about the prospect of Friday's friendly against Real Madrid.

"It's going to be a great experience for the lads, to play against one of the best teams in the world, if not the best. It'll be interesting to see how they cope with it," Cummins said.

The first-year coach sees the game not only as learning opportunity for his players but also for himself.

"You want to play the best teams in the world. It's a learning curve for me, as well," Cummins explained. "To play against them is great and I'm looking forward to getting the video afterward and look to see how they play and see if there's anything I can pick up and use."

Toronto FC has fallen on hard times lately, though, having earned just one win in its last five regular-season contests.

The team also lost to the Puerto Rico Islanders (who compete one level below MLS in the United Soccer League's First Division) in a two-game playoff, failing to qualify for the group stage of the CONCACAF Champions League.

Need to rebound

After being humbled by the Islanders, the team must quickly rebound and refocus, starting with next Saturday's crucial road game against D.C. United.

"We're very disappointed with the result against Puerto Rico," Toronto midfielder Dwayne De Rosario said. "It was a tournament that we definitely wanted to be part of, but you have to put that behind you and focus on the league right now and making the post-season."

"D.C. is a key game for us," Toronto coach Chris Cummins stated. "We're going to give it a massive push to get ourselves in the playoffs, because we believe we have a great chance of doing it.

Friday's game will be Toronto's fourth in 10 days, which means fatigue has set in. Cummins said he won't risk players who are the slightest bit injured by playing them against Madrid, stating it's important that the club remains healthy as it fights for a playoff berth.

Toronto taking it seriously

That said, even though Friday's encounter against los Galacticos is billed as an international friendly, Toronto is taking the game very seriously.

"A lot of the experienced guys have come up to me and told me they want to play, so nobody wants to miss this game. Not just because it's Real Madrid, but because they want to play," Cummins explained.

With a record nine European Cups/Champions League titles and 31 Spanish league championships to its credit, Real Madrid is one of the most famous and successful clubs in world soccer.

Some of the best players ever to play the game have worn Madrid's famous white jersey, including Alfredo di Stefano, Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo.

The newest star is Ronaldo, having joined the club in June after los Blancos paid Manchester United $145 million, a world record transfer fee, for the services of the Portuguese star.

Brennan and his fellow defenders expect to have their hands full against the reigning FIFA world player of the year.

"He's unbelievable, he's one of the best players in the world. I was fortunate enough to [go up] against him against Portugal when I played for Canada and he's something special," Brennan said.

Canada to order 50.4 million H1N1 vaccine doses

A handout file photo shows a technician holding a master H1N1 virus sample, for the pre-production of a vaccine against pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus at a GlaxoSmithKline laboratory in Dresden, Germany. (REUTERS/GlaxoSmithKline)

The federal government will order 50.4 million doses of swine flu vaccine, and will pick up 60 per cent of the cost, Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq announced Thursday.

The number of doses is enough for all Canadians who want and need to be vaccinated against the H1N1 pandemic virus, said Dr. David Butler-Jones, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.

The total cost will be more than $400 million, Butler-Jones told reporters.

Canada's pandemic influenza plan calculated that about 75 per cent of Canadians might want or need to be vaccinated during a pandemic.

Results from trials of the avian flu vaccine suggest one dose should be enough, particularly since Canada's flu vaccine supplier, GlaxoSmithKline, is using an additive known as adjuvant, he said. Adjuvants are used to boost immune response from vaccines.

The vaccine order is large enough to give one dose to every Canadian, or two doses to 75 per cent of the population, he said.

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<zaney> if you have the fucking internet why jizz in the shower?

Validated Presence for Museums

Validated Presence for Museums
 by: Malcolm R. Campbell
'Some of the most important people to your future don't understand the value of what you are doing.' --- Richard West, "American's Museums – Building Community"
Your museum needs validated presence with multiple individuals and groups to effectively carry out its mission, build and maintain audience and manage donor development.
* For presence, your museum (or other heritage tourism site) requires branding—a distinct and compelling identity impacting everything from image to programs and services—that allows it to position itself to appeal to prospective visitors and to differentiate itself from other local and regional venues.
* For this presence to be validated, your organization must simultaneously earn and maintain the respect of tourists, tourist/visitor bureaus and associations, educational institutions, governmental agencies, foundations, museums, and historical societies.
You must tell a consistent story through your name, site design, exhibit interpretation style and focus, events and activities, visitor guidebooks and brochures, web site, and advertising and public relations materials. While style and focus will change somewhat to meet the demands of audiences/formats, this consistent story must also be maintained in monographs, white papers, grant applications and other requests, and archival resources.
Your organization's ability to create a validated presence with individual groups and stakeholders impacts its success with other groups and stakeholders. That is, the advertising done to attract tourists and local visitors influences foundation responses to grant requests; web site content focusing on historical information and restoration goals influences the collegial approval of professionals at other museums and museum associations. Everything relating to branding evolves, builds on itself, and has multiple non-linear effects on all stakeholders.
If you have validated presence, everyone who should know who you are does know who you are, and they believe you are presenting a quality museum experience.


You're How Old?!? by: David Leonhardt a.k.a. The Happy Guy "Well, Happy Birthday! How old are you anyway?""Oh, I'm just 29 Â… again."It's a harmless game, denying our age, right? We play sensitive about our age as we get older, as we get further away from birth and closer to death.
The ocean, where saltwater fish live, is the largest of all the water bodies. It's home to millions of species – playful, colourful, savage and awe inspiring, and many of these varieties are appropriate and available for saltwater tanks.

Tips For Surviving As A Corporate Refugee

Tips For Surviving As A Corporate Refugee
 by: Lora J Adrianse
In her book "Are You A Corporate Refugee", Ruth Luban associates "corporate refugees" with refugees who never intend to leave their home country. People who are uprooted from the familiar terrain, customs and native language they've known for a very long time.
From my own experience as a corporate refugee over the past year, I can validate that the sense of loss can be overwhelming at times. The loss of a secure income is significant in itself, but when it compounds with the loss of identity, structure and community, there are times when it's paralyzing.
Today, almost a year later, I proudly consider myself a Corporate Refugee who has successfully navigated the grueling journey and emerged with an amazing new sense of purpose and freedom! With that in mind, I offer you tips for surviving from my own experience.
Give Yourself Time To Heal
Acknowledge the fact that you have been thrown into a life changing experience. Before you can move toward the future it's important to resolve the past. Just as in the loss of a loved one, there are stages of grief you will need to deal with. Chances are you will feel denial, anger, bargaining, and depression before you get to acceptance. Expect it, accept it, and try to have the forethought to recognize where you are in the process.
Take Advantage Of Your New "Lack Of" Schedule
One of the greatest advantages you have right now is "time". Even though much of that time will be preoccupied with processing your thoughts, there are no boundaries around where and when you do that. Turn off your alarm, forget your bedtime and let your body reset it's own clock. On gorgeous days go out and explore during times you would have been working. Whether you're running your toes through the grass, sitting on the beach or running errands, you'll discover sights, sounds, and people you haven't experienced at that time before. Cold, rainy days are great for putting your nose in a good book, clearing out clutter and browsing great bookstores. Like it or not, your time is your own now, take advantage of it.
Soul Search And Rediscover Your Passions
This is NOT the time to make major life decisions, but it's a perfect time to re evaluate what is most important to you. When you were 10 years old, what was it you wanted to be when you grew up? If you went in another direction, is it time to explore that option now? What are your values, your needs, your personal boundaries? What is it that you love so much you get lost in time? What is it that makes you laugh until you wet your pants? What have you always wanted to do, but never had the chance? The time is right to explore these things about yourself.
Evolve Rather Than Revolve
This is a time of evolution for you, not a revolution. Based on what you're doing, or not doing, things will change. You'll think about and do things differently than you did before. Things that worked for you before will no longer work. You'll see things you didn't see before. Take time to "just notice" without judgment. It doesn't need to be about shoulds, coulds, good or bad. It just is, so just notice.
Let Go And Let Be
I'm a believer that we have the power to influence outcomes, but we can't control them. In other words, what will be will be. I also believe that the universe is constantly sending us messages. If you don't listen to the messages, you get to learn the lessons. Save yourself the frustration and struggle of trying to control outcomes.
Maintain Undeniable Faith
Even if it's not clear now, never lose faith in yourself or your abilities. Your past successes are validations that you have what it takes to navigate and emerge from this experience with a greater sense of understanding and appreciation.


Do You Know What a Didgeridoo Is? by: Jesse S.
Unlike Brown Trout which were originally introduced to the Eastern United States, Cutthroat Trout are originally from the Western half of the United States.What separates the Cutthroat Trout from other trout is that Cutthroat Trout are found primarily in remote and pristine locations. Unlike their larger cousins, the rainbows and the browns, Cutthroat Trout tend to fare poorly in highly competitive environments – especially when predatory fish like Pike are introduced into their waters.

How to Find a Sitter For Your Dog

How to Find a Sitter For Your Dog
 by: Katie Brandt
Whether your dog is old or a just a puppy, there will come a time when you have to out of town for business or a vacation where dogs aren't allowed. Therefore, you will need to leave your prized pet in the care of a pet sitter. Where can you find a pet sitter? What types of pet sitter services are available? How much will it cost to hire a pet sitter? These are some of the many questions that you need to answer before you hire a pet sitter.
You have two main options of where to leave your pet when you are away. You can take them to a boarding kennel or you can hire a pet sitter. By hiring a pet sitter it means that your dog will stay at your home and a pet sitter will visit your home several times per day to take care of your dog. The following questions and answers are geared toward those pet owners that decide to hire a pet sitter to take care of their dog.
Question #1: Where do I find a pet sitter? You can find a pet sitter through a number of means. Consult your veterinarian, groomer, and breeder for recommendations. Often times they know of a reliable pet sitter in your area or they can point you in the direction of pet sitter services. You can also check with your friends and family to see if they can refer you to a pet sitter. Word of mouth referral is a common way to find a pet sitter.
You can also take a trip to your local pet store or a chain pet store such as PETCO. Many pet sitters advertise their services at these places so you can find their contact information. The pet store owners and staff may know of a great pet sitter as well.
Another option is to call Pet Sitters International at (800) 268-SITS or check out their website at http://www.petsit.com/. Pet Sitters International is the world's largest organization of pet sitters. Pet Sitters International is highly respected organization. They offer a multitude of services including finding a pet sitter based on your zip and giving advice on how to prepare your home for the pet sitter.
Also spend time researching information about the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters by calling them at (800) 296-PETS. You can peruse their website at www.petsitters.org. Not only can you find a pet sitter based on your zip code, but you can find a "certified" pet sitter. They offer a certification program that ensures a pet sitter is knowledgeable about business management, animal care, and animal health issues. This type of certification can be a comfort in the event that your dog has a health problem.
Question #2: What type of tasks does a pet sitter do for you and your pet? A pet sitter is there to provide comfort, help, and care for your dog while you are away. They will visit your home on a daily basis to feed your dog, take them for walks, and let them out to go the bathroom. They can help your dog with any health ailments or continuing care such as medicines while you are away.
A pet sitter needs to be informed if your dog has any special needs. For example, your dog may be elderly and blind or deaf. Your pet sitter must know this so they can properly help your dog. Or your dog may be just a puppy and require more exercise then most dogs. Let your pet sitter know and they can increase the frequency of visits each day. The pet sitter should be able to work with your needs.
Your pet sitter will also take the responsibility of taking your dog to the vet if an accident occurs or the need arises. You need to let your pet sitter know how you want them to handle these types of situations and how to contact you in the event that this happens.
Question #3: How do I find the "best" pet sitter for my dog? Only you can determine the best pet sitter for your dog. Follow the same procedures you would as if you were hiring a babysitter for your children. Check out their references, interview them, and inquire about past work history. How do they interact with your dog? Speak to former or current clients to determine if they are right for you.
Also make sure the pet sitter has been certified and/or bonded and insured. Your dog's life is priceless so you definitely want a serious professional pet sitter to take care of your pooch.
Question #4: How much does a pet sitter cost? The cost of a pet sitter varies based on their experience, your location, the number of dogs you are leaving, and the level of care you need for the dogs. Some pet sitters charge on a per visit basis while others can work with you to determine a reasonable price. Make sure to have their scope of services and fees in writing. This will safeguard you against any miscommunication.
Question #5: How should I prepare my home and dog for the pet sitter? First of all, your dog needs to meet and get to know the pet sitter before you leave town. Have the pet sitter visit a few times until your dog is comfortable with their presence. You don't want to leave and suddenly have a new person show up to take care of your dog. Your dog may confuse the pet sitter for an unwanted stranger.
Provide emergency numbers of your veterinarian and also a number at which they can reach you. You want to make yourself available by phone in case an emergency pops up. Make sure your home is clean and the dog food bowls are clean. Speak with your pet sitter about feeding, walking and other pet care procedures first, but also leave all the directions in writing. Verify that this is plenty of dog food for the length of time you will be gone.
If you following these tips you will find the best pet sitter for your dog and have a comfortable time on your trip knowing your dog is in good hands.


Hanging around in Thailand by: Gary Mortimer Our trip to Thailand had been long awaited, originally planned for the winter of 94/95. My wife Karin had bought the maps and books and even packed; we were off.
Got Goals? by: Paul Shearstone Inspiration without application improves nothing, benefits no one and fans the flames of mediocrity! Â… Paul Shearstone 2002 2003Â….Got Goals? By Paul Shearstone Ask anybody on January 2nd 2003 if they have New Years Resolutions or goals and nine out of ten will say, "Yes!" ...Ask the same people about their resolutions three months later and they'll look at you like a small goat discovering a new fence for the first time. All good intentions aside, exhaustive studies have shown only 3% of the population engage in some form of goal-setting and only 1% on average, write them down.

Bingo – Good for the Mind?

Bingo – Good for the Mind?
 by: John C. Thorenssen
When we think of bingo, genius and brainpower don't always spring to mind; these attributes have tended to be reserved for poker and other games of skill and luck. The image of a grandparent sitting in a community hall with a cup of tea and a card of bingo does not lend itself to the intrigue of psychology and mental agility. However, according to a study by the University of Southampton's Psychology Department, bingo may not be the trivial pastime many would take it for. Researchers there insist that bingo keeps the mind sharp and equate this as especially important to people as they get older.
The tests conducted revealed that bingo players were more accurate and faster in tests that measured memory, mental speed and their ability to absorb information from the environment around them, than those who did not play the game.
What seems to be the key advantage to the sustained playing of bingo is the concept of time. There is no doubt that games such as chess, poker and backgammon all stretch the mind and keep the brain functioning. Whereas the hand-eye coordination needed for bingo may not be as exhaustive as for other games, the time constraint in which players must check their numbers is key to the sustenance of mental agility.
The tests comprised of 112 people within the age brackets of 18 to 40 and 60 to 82. Half of each set played bingo. The results concluded that all bingo players were more accurate and quicker than non-players. Interestingly, in certain tests, the older players did better than the younger players. More and more research is supporting the theory that a regular partaking of activities that exercise the mind is very beneficial to the maintenance of optimum mental functioning as we get older.
Younger bingo players tended to be faster, but the older ones were more accurate. Many people have suggested that the reason people dismiss bingo as a "junior" gaming pastime is because we so often associate it with pensioners. The social stigma of bingo has kept it out of the major casinos and therefore reduced its respect amongst the "hipper" echelons of today's society.
Many would be led to conclude that the above study is simply out of proportion in the sense that a game of bingo is hardly a satisfactory workout for the mind in terms of endurance and mental skill. To an extent they would be right. But what the tests seem to be suggesting crucially, is that it is the prolonged or regular partaking in the game over a sustained period of time that will lead to cognitive benefits.
Then of course there are those who believe that any form of gambling being proclaimed to be beneficial to the mind is nothing short of an aberration. Whilst certainly milder in terms of the funds that change hands than other gambling games, bingo is still a game where one pays money to gain money and as such has been criticised from certain groups in society. However, the social aspect of the game cannot be overlooked and it is this type of play that would be encouraged to facilitate the mental benefits as concluded by the study described above.
In the UK, there are around three million bingo players. It is hoped that this study and the growing body of research around it will help to promote the game to those who otherwise would have written it off as something to be enjoyed with gardening, tea and everything else we assume people over the age of 65 suddenly develop a passion for.


This will give you an idea of the golf vacation that awaits you in Costa Rica. You will re-discover "no-hassle" tee times and the enjoyment of playing unhurried rounds of golf on courses designed by well known golf architects George Fazio, Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Ted Robinson, Jr., Mike Young and Tracy May.
Luckily, there are ways in which you can narrow down your options somewhat, making the whole thing a lot easier.First and foremost you should be considering one major factor..... How much space do you have? If you live in an apartment there is little point in getting a large dog that takes up a lot of room and may also need a lot of exercising.

The Happiest Person In America: What'S Sex Got To Do With It?

The Happiest Person In America: What'S Sex Got To Do With It?
 by: David Leonhardt
Who is the happiest person in America? USA Today featured Happiest Person in a cover story in its USA Weekend magazine. Bad news: it's not you. Nor is it me.
Just how did they find Happiest Person and determine that he is indeed the happiest person in America? The USA Today research team appears to have used an elegantly simple three-step process.
First, they identified "the world's leading authority on happiness", Martin Seligman ... which must have come as a wee bit of a surprise to several of his equally well-known and equally well-respected peers. How they picked Seligman remains more of a mystery than how a land-locked nation of mountains and yodeling became home to the holy grail of yachting, but we are working feverishly to crack the code.
Next, they asked Seligman to name six principles of happiness. Seligman listed couple strengths, a win-win approach, savoring success, playing to one's strengths, opening doors to opportunity and finding meaning in life.
Finally, they applied Seligman's principles to determine who best matches them. Naawww, just kidding. That would make way too much sense. Instead, USA Today created a make-believe process of its own that stands out from Seligman's list like the Jolly Green Giant at a dwarf convention. Here is the USA Today process.
Geography. It seems that Happiest Person must live in the best place to live, which is Virginia Beach, in case you didn't know. If somebody even happier than Happiest Person lives in San Francisco or Vermont, the USA Today research team does not want to know.
Why confine their search to one town? Could geography be the secret to happiness that Seligman failed to mention? True, research does show that people living in free societies tend to be happier than others, but there is no evidence that where you live within the free world makes a difference.
Sex. Women are prone to higher emotional highs and lower emotional lows, whereas men are prone to more constant emotions. So Happiest Person must be a man, concludes USA Today. While the science does hit the bull's eye, the conclusion misses the barn wall. I suppose they'll be telling us that Seattle is the sunniest spot in America because the weather fluctuates less than in The Sunshine State.
Family. Happiest Person is married, has children, and is healthy. People with intimate relationships do tend to be happier, and marriage is a fairly good indicator (especially for men). And health is important. These may not be among Seligman's six principles, but let's not argue against good health.
Money. Happiest person has a "good, dependable job" as a stockbroker, a 2,300 square foot house (with an eat-in kitchen and a deck!). The truth comes out – money does buy happiness, according to the USA Today research team.
In fact, studies show that money makes a difference only if it elevates a person above the poverty level. When a person has means enough not to struggle for basic necessities, money rarely buys happiness.
Brand-awareness. This one must have made the big ad agency tycoons drool in their Corn Flakes. Happiest Person is for real because he likes all the right brands! He "digs" Coca-cola, so he must be the real thing. And he loves Craftsman tools and Dell computers. Say no more.
Where does the USA Weekend exposé leave the rest of us? If you are a little old lady enjoying retirement in Atlanta or a student conquering new fields of knowledge in Ann Arbor, you clearly are not happy enough for USA Today. But cheer up, even The Happy Guy eats "donuts" rather than "Krispy Kremes".


Depending on the area of Costa Rica you are in, the climate can differ dramatically. There are cool wet mountain ranges, rain forests, dry tropical forests, cloud forests, the very dry Pacific coast and the damp Caribbean coast.
Techniques of Wet Fly Fishing by: Brett Fogle Many anglers who are new to fly fishing consider dry fly fishing the "traditional" way of catching trout. Well, that's not entirely true.

Iranian-Canadians fear Iran could be using social media to spy

Many Iranian-Canadians have used the internet and cellphones to keep in touch with family during the turbulent post-election period in Iran, but some say they're also afraid the same technology could be used to monitor them.

Some Iranian-Canadians are calling for a boycott of Nokia Siemens Networks products because the company has provided the Iranian government with technology to spy on communications.

The country has reportedly blocked some communications and websites and has been following some types of communication with the help of call-monitoring technology created by the company, a merger of Siemens AG, based in Germany, and Finnish cellphone company Nokia Corporation.

Social networking sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, have been blocked, but some Iranians have been using proxy servers to access the sites.

Meradod Hariri, who speaks for the Committee for Solidarity with Iran, said he thinks the company should consider how its technology might be used by the Iranian government.

"I hope that Nokia Siemens joint venture will take the responsibility to recall the products and stop providing support to the Iranian regime," he said.

"We know right now this product is being used against the freedom of expression in Iran."

According to the Nokia Siemens Networks website, the company has provided the Iranian government with Lawful Intercept technology to monitor local voice calls within the country but does not monitor data, internet, international calls or perform speech recognition.

"Nokia Siemens Networks has not provided any deep-packet inspection, web censorship or Internet filtering capability to Iran," said the posting.

Deep-packet inspection can help block and monitor communication.

"In most countries around the world, including all EU member states and the U.S., telecommunications networks are legally required to have the capability for Lawful Intercept, and this is also the case in Iran," it said.

"Contrary to speculation in the media, the technology supplied by Nokia Siemens Networks cannot be used for the monitoring or censorship of internet traffic."

But Soghrai Jafari, who came to Canada 22 years ago, said she still worries about her family in Iran and their use of the internet to send news out of the country.

"We have to boycott [Nokia Siemens] for the Iran crackdown," she said.

Jafari said she doesn't think countries with questionable human rights records should be allowed this kind of technology.

"Basically, [Nokia Siemens] has a responsibility to ensure its technology is used in an ethical manner," she said.

Ron Deibert, the director of the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto, which focuses on the convergence of technology and world politics, said the debate over the use of monitoring technology is an important one.

"There is no clear solution," he said.

"My own feeling right now is that there needs to be lot more awareness raised for the average person who takes for granted the technologies they use and doesn't think much about what goes on beneath the surface."

Deibert said that in order to protect

Domed stadium best for Roughriders: study

A government -sponsored concept study is recommending a domed stadium to replace Regina's Mosaic Stadium, home to the CFL's Saskatchewan Roughriders.

The cost of such a facility is estimated at $350 million, says the $70,000 report that was released early Monday.

The concept review was ordered by the Saskatchewan government to look at options for the aging home of the Roughriders. The study also considered a number of less expensive options.

The least-expensive option is to undertake minor repairs to the open-air facility, at a cost of between $1 million and $6 million.

Bill Shupe of W. Shupe & Co., one of the consultants who authored the study, said it makes sense to have a facility that can be used year-round.

"Having a facility you can use 12 months of the year, that can generate much more economic impact, have a much far-reaching impact across Regina and across Saskatchewan; we just felt it was the more viable option to look at."

Study will take place

The province, city, and the Roughriders have now ordered a $1-million feasibility study on construction of a domed stadium.

That study is due in January.

The Saskatchewan Party government of Premier Brad Wall has said a new stadium is not a top priority and that any new facility would require significant private-sector involvement.

Saskatchewan Crown Corporation Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said Monday that no commitments have been made beyond the study.

"In January 2010, we'll have all the information in front of us," he said. "All the partners will sit down, we'll look at it and in light of the means of the province and the federal government, we'll make decisions on that basis. And at that point or some point thereafter we'll encourage the involvement of the private sector as well."

Cheveldayoff said if the stadium is built no money will come from the province's general revenue fund. He said there are other ways to fund the project.

"There's options. We have the corporations, we have the gaming corporation.… But again, it's much too early to speculate on how that's going to be looked at. First we have to know what the cost is, then we have to know what partners are involved."

Fort McMurray Tories question Boutilier's removal

Guy Boutilier, right, seen with Premier Ed Stelmach, has been kicked out of the government caucus. (Jason Scott/Canadian Press)

Some members of the Conservative party in Fort McMurray want answers from Premier Ed Stelmach about his decision to remove their MLA, Guy Boutilier, from the Conservative party caucus.

The premier dumped Boutilier during a telephone call on Friday because of comments the MLA had made about long-term care in the oilsands city.

On CBC Radio Monday morning, Boutilier said he has asked the premier for a face-to-face meeting to discuss the issue because he fears the premier's decision was made based on misinformation.

"Do the right thing, meet with me and hear all the facts, and then if he wants to make that decision in front of our caucus then I accept that," Boutilier said.

The Tory constitutency association in Fort McMurray held a meeting Sunday, and president Iris Kirschner said Boutilier is encouraging members to stay with the party and resist the temptation to resign.

Why was this decision made?

"Two days ago I would have never imagined that this would have happened, so right now it's very important that we do speak with our premier and get an understanding of where do we go from here, Kirschner said.

"What can we expect in the future, what options are open to us and why was this decision made?" she said.

Many people in Fort McMurray were already disappointed that Boutilier was not re-appointed to cabinet last year when Stelmach shuffled the front benches, she said.

Boutilier was speaking out on behalf of his constituents and should not be fired, she said.

"I would say that right now people are just really disappointed in many of the decisions that have been made in regards to Fort McMurray ... we were at least one of 72 PC MLAs, now we have one independent, Kirschner said.

The association wants to meet with the premier to find out why this happened and whether Stelmach will consider changing his mind.

How To Discover And Prevent Aquarium Fish Illness

How To Discover And Prevent Aquarium Fish Illness
 by: John Gorecki
Aquarium fish fall ill just like any other pet. The illnesses are as a result of disease. The common diseases that affect aquarium fish are mostly stress induced.
The micro-organisms which cause these diseases may be present in the water as part of the normal micro fauna and grab the opportunity to infest or infect the fish when it is stressed and its normal defense are weakened.
Different ways aquarium fish suffer from stress
- Aquarium fish usually start experiencing stress starting from the time it's about living the breeding farm till when the end purchaser finally picked it from retailer. Most beginners don't really know how to handle fish.
- The quality of water is another cause of aquarium fish stress. Different fish species have different water quality that will make the environment conducive for them. Quality parameters like pH, water hardness, high nitrite and carbon dioxide level, low dissolved oxygen salinity of water, water temperature and others.
- Any change in environment like physical damage, leaches, lice and introduction of new fish that is not quarantine could lead to stress in aquarium, thus making life non conducive for fish in aquarium tank
- Change in weather condition is another factor that leads to aquarium fish stress. When there is heavy downfall as you know the weather will become cold and this could lead to stress in aquarium.
- Poor Diet as a result of lack in nutritional requirement always leads to poor performance in fish immune system. Fish immune system will struggle to operate efficiently. This will result in a stressed fish.
Warning signs of illness in aquarium fish
You can easily know when your fish are going through stress if you watch them very well and often. You will notice signs like fish swimming with clamps up (closed) in their fins, hovering in a corner, heavy breathing and fish brushing its body against objects. These are warning signs you need to act on immediately.
How to reduce stress in aquarium
To reduce stress in aquarium, you need to guide against factors that lead to stress. The following are tips on how to prevent stress that ultimately leads to illness:
- Make sure you have detail information about the fish species that you will be introducing to your tank. Enquiring about its requirements before you buy it will help you a lot. Thus, ask lots of questions before making your purchase.
- Knowing the right food for your fish is another important thing you have to know as this may vary from species to species. If you have this knowledge you will be able to provide foods that are rich in nutritional ingredients that your fish require.
- Keep the environment clean.
- When you want to introduce new fish, make sure it's quarantined to reduce the risk of disease.


That's because when you choose from one of many all inclusive vacations and discount airfare, you'll find that to the staff and professionals who attend to your every need, you're the most important person on that trip.Whether you're planning a wedding, a honeymoon or the perfect family vacation, you'll find that choosing from the many all inclusive vacations and discount airfare that are available will be just what you need to settle down and relax.all inclusive vacations and discount airfare can take you anywhere in the World.Whether you're looking for white, sandy beaches in Hawaii or warm, tropical breezes as you travel Mexico, you'll find that purchasing a package that includes your airfare, hotel and sightseeing, is the easy, affordable, and fun way to forget about everything and simply enjoy.With so many all inclusive vacations and discount airfare to choose from, it's important that when planning your vacation you take the time to consider where and when you want to travel. Winter time can be especially dreary if you live in a cold, wet climate.
Breaking Through Resistance by: Selena Richardson Why is it that every time you start something new, a million and one things get in the way?You make a goal to lose weight and all of a sudden every time you go to the store you seem to notice the chocolate you've been craving.Or you decide to start a writing project but every time you sit down to write - you're stuck, you don't have any inspiration. You can't seem to get moving forward.Resistance always comes up when you start venturing into unknown territory - starting a new project or a home based business - it comes in many different forms.For me, resistance shows up in the disguise of procrastination.

Meditate to Unlock Your Hidden Potential – Part 1

Meditate to Unlock Your Hidden Potential – Part 1
 by: Paul M. Jerard Jr.
Meditation is often misunderstood by those who do not practice it. Very often, I hear meditation referred to as, "altered states of consciousness." That sounds more like intoxicants, rather than bringing clarity to a cluttered mind. Without going too deep into what meditation is, or is not, let's focus on one of the many things a daily meditation practice can do for you.
Meditation is commonly seen in many Yoga classes, but it has been practiced by a variety of cultures, including Roman Catholic priests, as well as Japanese Samurai, who practiced a form of Zen meditation. I mention this so you can see the full spectrum of meditation and its many facets.
There are many varieties and types of meditation, but the easiest form to learn is, "breath awareness meditation." Compared to many other meditation techniques, this will enable anyone to experience the benefits of meditation in much less time.
At this point, let's consider that meditation and Yoga teachers often compare the mind to a monkey. Many thoughts are running through your brain, at the same time, and it is hard to control all of your impulses - let alone, sit still and meditate. So why go through all this trouble?
Meditation has many rewards, and we will now consider one of extreme value. Through daily practice of meditation, you will release the unlimited potential of your mind. The ability to change, or alter the universe, starts as a single thought within your mind.
One human decided to harness the power of fire, and did he/she foresee the global warming effect? How could he/she imagine where we are now? This is just one of many thousands of examples of Karma - the law of cause and effect. Therefore, one seemingly small change, of any kind, will have a ripple effect on the universe.
Some of the seeds to change the universe, rests locked up in your mind, but you have the ability to shape the future by any small changes that you make. Let's say you have a friend, family member, or associate, who cares for you deeply, but, up to now, you have always taken it for granted. Can you imagine what would happen if you take the time to groom that relationship? The answer is you would have a loyal ally and all you had to show was kindness or appreciation.
You have the ability to alter your own personality and affect the world around you. Hopefully, your personality will always continue to change for the better; if so, this will alter everyone around you for the best.


They pack heaps of features into a durable, quality machine that is priced just right. Anyone who is looking for a treadmill for their home gym or office should seriously consider a Smooth Treadmill.
Maybe you haven't thought of this. It's the best solution to your budget problems, but you can't have it overnight! Greek people are hospitable and so are other countries' people if you become friends with.

How Do I help My Dog Lose Weight?

How Do I help My Dog Lose Weight?
 by: Russell Richer
http://www.DogDayPets.com
Much like their owners, more and more dogs worldwide are showing signs of obesity. Besides limiting their enjoyment of life as a dog, extra body weight can lead to to joint and heart problems, shorter lives, and sometimes behavioural issues.
The easiest way to tell whether or not your dog is obese is to examine his body. Try the following: Have him stand up, then stand above him. Does his body slope inward at the waist? Run your hands over his sides from front to back legs. Can you feel his ribs fairly easily? Feel the base of his tail. Are the bones easily detectable? Look at him from the side. Does his tummy slope upward as it gets closer to his tail?
If you answered no to any of the questions, your pup is probably overweight. If you answered "What waist/ribs/tail bones?" and "Upward? Really?," your pup is probably obese.
The methods for treating obesity in dogs is fairly simple: eat less, exercise more.
Eat less If your dog has a constant supply of food, remove it. Buy a food scoop with measuring lines and portion his food based on the charts on your food labels. Create a feeding schedule and stick to it. Whether you split the amount among two feedings or one larger meal, stay with the routine and he'll adjust to it.
Be forewarned, though. Dogs are survival eaters and don't react well when their food supply is threatened. She may suddenly, start raiding the trash or taking food off of the counter.
Exercise more
It won't take any convincing to get your dog to exercise more, just get the leash and head out for a walk.
Plan to spend an hour total every day walking. I realize that it's hard these days to find the time. If you have kids, drag them away from the TV and go for a family walk after dinner. If you work out yourself, figure out a way to incorporate your dog into your routine.
On the weekends, head to the park with a tennis ball or a Frisbee.
Think of it this way:
Would you rather see your dog running, tongue out, tail wagging for 10 years, or that he lay around the house for five?
How many people get to have a to-do list that includes "Play with Dog"?
The right diet and exercise can make your dog more social, more obedient, and more dedicated to you due to the extra time you spend together.
Wasn't that the whole reason you decided to get a dog in the first place?


Affirm-Actions ... Stop lying to your soul and make it real! by: Edward B.
Nutrition And Healthy Eating – What You Should Know by: John Gibb Many people think that they can achieve a healthy lifestyle simply by maintaining a diet that prevents obesity.

Why Not Stay At One Of The Top All Inclusive Resorts When You Need To Relaxe!

Why Not Stay At One Of The Top All Inclusive Resorts When You Need To Relaxe!
 by: Mike Yeager
All inclusive resorts are the best getaways for people who want to relax and enjoy the serene nature. The destinations are spread out all over the world. A lot of those depend on the qualities, price and ultimate extravagant fun. Sandals resort which includes Jamaica, St. Lucia, Bahamas or Antigua that has been voted world's Leading Honeymoon resort for six years in a row. Here you can engage in every land and water sport such as water skiing, scuba diving and an impressive fitness center. When comes to dining, there are extraordinary restaurants to choose from.
All inclusive resorts have a grand entrance; none can compare to the winding, palm-lined road that leads you to the beginning of your dream vacation. The playful dolphin fountain provides a dramatic sense of arrival to this gated Disney Area Resort. It is located just minutes from Walt Disney World in Kissimmee and can be perfect resort for a total vacation experience.
All inclusive resorts in Hawaii give you a great time to experience the scenic beauty and enjoy the great deal package indeed. The atmosphere at these resorts is laid-back, and the service is awesome. White beaches and sapphire lagoons at the Kauai are breathtaking. A line of chairs stretched across on grassy lawn. You can feel the crashing waves all day long. In all vacation resorts, guests can swim and snorkel and can be easily swept into the spirit of paradise.


They happened to have a well and offered to let us use the water for my goldfish.I soon noticed that the fish were constantly gasping for air at the surface. They also refused to eat.
Geocaching: A Great Way To Get Outdoors by: Chuck Fitzgerald If you're tired of hiking the same trail or picnicking at the same park, then Geocaching may be exactly what you're looking for.

Pic

The Premiere Attraction State in Florida

The Premiere Attraction State in Florida
 by: Nuttakorn Rattanachaisit
Sunshine States
Florida is called the " Sunshine State ", situated on a largw peninsula at the southern part of the United States , just only 1,000 miles south of New York City . Florida is a flat sandy land about 100 miles wide by 400 miles with many hundred miles of white sand beaches. Its climate is warm.
Florida is the premiere attraction state with more large parks, entertainment centers, history museums, resorts, sports venues and tourist destinations.
Clearwater Beach , Florida
Sugary Sand Beaches
Leave the mainland and cross the bridge, you'll see the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico and Clearwater Beach . Clearwater Beach is situated midway on Florida 's west coast, 30 minutes west of Tampa and 90 minutes west of Orlando . It is an island connected to its downtown by palm-lined Memorial Causeway. Clearwater Beach is known for its sugary sand beaches.
Daytona Beach , Florida
Golfing Daytona
Daytona is known as Florida 's golf capital. Your golf vacation in Daytona Beach is as good for your account as it is for your swing. Despite the vast selection of famous golf courses, the area is not as expensive as you think. In spring , Daytona Beach is full of much more teenagers-college students, rock bands and motorcycle buffs.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
The Venice of America
Fort Lauderdale is a city in Florida's gold coast. It is 23 miles north of Miami with its more than 300 miles of navigable waterways and innumerable canals. Its landscape is lied with hundreds of parks, golf courses, tennis courts and beaches.
Fort Myers Beach, Florida
The History of Fort Myers Beach
Fort Myers Beach shares its heritage with its namesake the city of Fort Myers. This city was once home to the famous Seminole Indian Chief, Bill Bowlegs.
Inverness, Florida
Florida's Nature Coast
Inverness is situated 10 minutes south of the Florida Turnpike's northern gate at Wildwood and five minutes east of 1-75 to State Road 44. Its coast is kept as old Florida charm by preserving and protecting acres of natural scenery.
Jacksonville, Florida
What's in the Northeast Florida
Jacksonville is at the northeastern tip of Florida, south of Georgia border, lies a huge land mass encompassing city and country, swamp and ocean. One of the jacksonville's most popular attractions is the Jacksonville Zoo.
Tampa, Florida
Adventure Island
Tampa is a medium-sized city. It is on Florida's Gulf Coast. Tampa's attractions are museums, large parks like Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, Lowry Park Zoo, Florida Aquarium, arts center at the Tampa Bay and leaving of cruise ships from the port of Tampa. You will not be disappeared if you come to Tampa for sunshine and you will be surprised to discover its wonderful food-delicious, diverse and exciting cuisine.


Ten Benefits of Having a Relationship Coach by: Rinatta Paries As a Master Certified Relationship Coach, I work with singles to help them attract a great match and with couples to help put their relationships back on track. I hear great feedback from my clients about the value of coaching.I think everyone can benefit from having a coach -- coaching can contribute that much to your life.
The 10 Bike Shop Customer Etiquette Commandments by: Levi Bloom This article was inspired by all those things customers do that really irritate bike shop owners and employees. I decided to create this list of commandments for you to follow.1.

How to Choose Goldfish

How to Choose Goldfish
 by: Nate Jamieson
How you choose your goldfish, depends largely on two things: the type of fish you really like to see, and the kind of container you intend to keep them in.
People in warmer climates, like to populate their outdoor ponds and pools with goldfish, which is a wonderful addition to the outdoor décor of your lawns and gardens. These may be natural ponds, or manmade pools that are actually vinyl liners sunk into the ground, and provided with air and water circulation through a pump system. This circulation, natural or otherwise, is important to keeping the water well oxygenated for the fish.
But surprisingly, if your pond is deep enough, it's possible to over-winter your goldfish outside. If you are populating an outdoor pond, it's best to start with fish that were raised that way themselves, as there is less likelihood of losing some that are unable to adapt. Store-bought fish raised in tanks can adapt, but you can expect to lose a certain percentage of them, depending on the harshness of the weather.
If you're just starting out, you might try just the common goldfish at first, since these will be less expensive to replace, should you have a hard winter. If your fish are not surviving, you may need to look at better air and water circulation, or deepening the pond. But once you have a thriving colony, you can begin adding some of the hardier varieties of fancy goldfish.


But like so many ventures Miracle On 34th Street (1947) came about because of passion, in this case that of Director George Seaton who had gone to New York on his own and made arrangements with the real Mr. Macy and Mr.
Toys For Your Pet That Are Safe and Fun by: Christine Arbor There are plenty of toys on the market to keep your favorite pet entertained for hours on end, but there are also a number of factors to consider when purchasing toys for your pet.

The Compounding Effect of Selfishness

The Compounding Effect of Selfishness
 by: Gary Vurnum
Five-year-old Katie asked for a coin for her to throw into a fountain at a local shopping centre. She was given one, and duly walked over to the fountain, stopped for a few seconds, and threw it into the water, and came back to us, smiling.
“What did you wish for, Katie?” I asked, expecting some mention of Barbie in the answer.
“I wished that my brother could stay at home with us all of the time, and not have to go into hospital any more.” She replied.
I looked over at my wife, and saw that she had a tear in her eye.
On reflection, it made me realise how unselfish children can be in certain situations. They do not torture themselves with bias or perceptions of how their actions might impact upon others. They generally do what they want to do, and say what they want to say, until they get told to conform by parents or teachers. Children do need to be informed of boundaries that shouldn’t be crossed, or words that shouldn’t be said. They should, however, be allowed to fully develop their natural imagination and caring instincts in a positive, supportive framework.
By the same token, it made me realise how selfish us grown-ups have become. It seems that, for a lot of people, every act is performed only because of an expectation of something in return. You don’t think so? Let’s look at some examples:
You complain that your sister bought you a Christmas present that cost less than the one you bought for her.
You take your daughter out for a bike ride only so that you don’t have to play a game with her.
You take two-hour lunch breaks at work on a regular basis, yet you complain at appraisal time about your poor pay-rise.
You give up your seat on the train only because you think it will make you look good in front of others, and not because you want to.
You lend your best friend a small amount of money to help her out, yet all you can think about is when she will pay you back.
Giving with the expectation to receive is not giving, it’s lending. If you are lending somebody something, even subconsciously, you automatically expect some interest in return. This interest element is what causes the problem.
In the same way that interest on money compounds, so does this bank of accumulated selfishness. Like your monetary debt is always in the back of your mind, your subconscious will not let you move forward unless you balance the equation.
The most difficult way to become successful is by attempting to achieve everything on your own. If you desire long-term success at whatever you do, you can only get (and stay) there with the help of other people. Only by focusing on the other person will you be able to give without expecting to receive. Help other people, without expectation, and you help yourself on the road to success.
To Our Success!


One time in New York an unnoticed Marilyn Monroe was walking down Madison Avenue accompanied by Eli Wallach. " My God, don't these people know who you are?" Wallach asked her.
How to Care for Your Dog's Ear by: Ruth Bird Regular ear care for your dog Routine ear care is very important to the health of your dog.

Chocolate Splendor, Food For The Gods. Bodybuilding Nutrition.

Chocolate Splendor, Food For The Gods. Bodybuilding Nutrition.
 by: Kevin Doberstein
A fictional overheard conversation at a Thelma's Fine Dining.
Hi, I'm your waitress, Flo. How are you two doing tonight? Just come from the gym? Whew, one of you needs a shower. Here's our menu. Our specials include a 3lb cheeseburger with mega fries, a foot long chili dog that is deep-fried and covered with cheese. Or we have a this new health drink called Chocolate Splendor. What? How in the h#%l did that get in there?
An after workout drink that provides bodybuilding nutrition for first rate growth.
After putting your body through a grueling workout it demands bodybuilding nutrition. No this is not an advertisement. We found an easy, quick and reasonably priced way of fulfilling this need. We take a packet of Carnation Instant Breakfast and mix it with whey protein. The whey protein that we use is Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey Protein Powder. It mixes easily and tastes good. 20 grams of sugar carbohydrates from the instant breakfast help your blood glucose return back too normal after the depletion from the workout. You can mix the two powders together in a shaker cup and add water at the gym when you are ready to drink it.
Chocolate Splendor breakdown:
 Protein 28 grams
 Carbohydrates 30 grams 20 grams sugar
 Fat 2.5 grams
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Feel free to publish this article in your e-zine, your newsletter, or your web site, as long as resource box and by-line is included. All web links in Bio and by line must be working.
A courtesy copy of your publication will be appreciated. Please, email to " natureboy_bodybuilding@hotmail.com" Thank You
You can view this article with pictures at http://www.nature-boy-bodybuilding.com/natureboybodybuilding/id13.html


The ride had been a marvelous, comfortable experience when compared to riding Greyhound buses in the United States. In addition to a good meal and a new release movie, one of my fellow passengers shared many of the interesting things about Morelia that I would be able to see and do once we arrived.
Each person's box would contain specific chores or tasks that need to be completed. The chores are written on slips of paper, and take a maximum of 10 minutes each to accomplish.

100 Huntley Street hosts suspended during Ponzi scheme probe

David Mainse speaks to the media Dec. 9, 2005, in Cambridge, Ont. He remains on 100 Huntley Street, but his sons have been asked to leave the evangelical television program. (Canadian Press)

Ron and Reynold Mainse have been relieved of their duties as hosts of Christian program 100 Huntley Street after allegedly becoming involved in a $14.1-million Ponzi scheme.

Crossroads Christian Communications, the Canadian ministry behind 100 Huntley Street, has issued a statement saying ministry funds were not used in the scheme and that the brothers had made a private investment.

Crossroads founder David Mainse remains on the show, but his two sons were suspended in early June after it was learned their investments were being investigated by the U.S. Security Exchange Commission.

They had invested money with Gordon Driver, a neighbour of Ron Mainse in Freelton, Ont., whose company is called Axcess Automation.

The SEC alleges Driver was running a Ponzi scheme that drew $14.1 million US from more than 100 Canadian and U.S. investors.

Driver was promising weekly returns on investment as high as five per cent, based on special software he said he developed to trade futures.

The Ontario Securities Commission has ordered Driver and Axcess Automation to cease all trading and the SEC is seeking to seize its assets.

According to SEC court filings, Driver testified that he had worked for 100 Huntley Street as a teenager.

In a May 14 filing in California, the SEC accuses Ron and Reynold Mainse, who were hosts on 100 Huntley Street, of helping Driver recruit new investors.

However, Doug McKenzie, chief executive of Crossroads, says the Mainses made a "personal and private" investment in Axcess and did not draw from the ministry's pool of donors.

"Ron and Reynold Mainse will not be appearing on any Crossroads programming or otherwise represent Crossroads for the time being as they focus their energies on certain matters in their personal lives," the Crossroads board said in a statement.

"They've stepped down from their duties until such time as the board of directors have complete understanding of all the issues related to a matter that they were involved in outside of the ministry here at Crossroads," the statement said.

100 Huntley Street, a daily inspirational TV program, was launched in 1977 by Crossroads founder and evangelical minister David Mainse.

Wascana Lake study to examine fertilizer effects

Wascana Lake in Regina will be used in experiments to study the effect of fertilizers on lake water. (Kevin O'Connor/CBC)

The artificial Wascana Lake in Regina, notorious for its algae and other plant growth, has been selected for a major study on the effects of fertilizer on lakes.

Biologists from the University of Regina are participating in the study, which involves several universities looking at different questions regarding fertilizers and water systems.

In Regina, samples of water from Wascana Lake are being taken every three weeks over the course of the summer. Some will be treated with urea, a common form of fertilizer, while control samples will be left alone.

After a time, the water will be tested to see what happens to both the control samples and those with added fertilizer.

"Urea is great for crops. It's really a low-impact fertilizer," Peter Leavitt, a biologist at the University of Regina, told CBC News on Thursday. "In Saskatchewan, we're actually leading the country in its use.

"But we don't have a great idea of what happens if it gets off the soil and gets into the water," Leavitt explained. "So, this is part of a very large project that was just funded by the federal government to try and get a better understanding of what these kinds of organic molecules do to the environment.

"We're trying to understand its effects on the algae вЂ" the green stuff in the water вЂ" as well as the bacteria."

'Wascana Lake is a great model for many lakes in southern Saskatchewan.'вЂ" Peter Leavitt, University of Regina biologist

Leavitt said the followup testing will focus on the microscopic bacteria in particular.

"What we're doing this year is trying to understand the effects on bacteria. The algae, the green stuff, you can see," he said. "The bacteria you can't see right away, so they could pose more of a hazard or they could be beneficial, and we know so little about this, we're just trying to get some preliminary information."

"Wascana Lake is a great model for many lakes in southern Saskatchewan, and it's also a good model for lakes in other agricultural regions in the world," Leavitt said. "The lake is naturally nutrient-rich, so it's a lake that may be sensitive to additional inputs of nitrogen and other molecules."

Link to algae growth part of study

Leavitt said the goal of the research is to clear up some questions about the impact of urea fertilizer on water systems.

"Urea wasn't used prior to 1970, and since its use the blue-green algae tends to be worse," Leavitt said. "So people would point at that and go, 'Oh look. It's the urea.'

"But, it's also warmer than it's ever been, so maybe it's temperature," he said. "We're trying to pull things apart and try to identify what the actual cause is, rather than just guessing."

Leavitt said the issue is important to Saskatchewan as an agricultural province.

"Ultimately this is a benefit to the province, because there's going to be three billion more people on the planet in the next 50 years. We absolutely must feed them. And Saskatchewan is the world's bread basket," Leavitt said. "We're going to be feeding them from food produced here and we're going to need the fertilizer."

Smells like spring

The Regina lake produces a foul odour every spring, when the ice breakup releases trapped gas from a winter's worth of decomposing vegetation.

"The conditions that make this area good for growing crops, also make it good for growing plants in the water," Leavitt said about the seasonal pungency emitted from the lake. "The smell comes from having ice over the whole lake all winter long, and when it melts, that sort of rotting egg smell comes up."

Leavitt said if there is a link between fertilizers and plant growth, managers of Wascana Lake could work on that.

"Part of it is trying to reduce the nutrient input so there's less green stuff and therefore less stuff to decompose," he said. "So, it might help. It might not."

Leavitt said they hope to have preliminary results early in 2010.

Farmers near Edmonton fear grasshopper infestation

Farmers in the county of Camrose fear grasshoppers will destroy crops already stunted by continuing dry weather.

They leave virtually nothing by the time they've done their job eating," Terry Banack, a farmer in Camrose, said Wednesday.

A field near Camrose bakes in the sun. (CBC)The county, 105 kilometres southeast of Edmonton, was declared an agricultural disaster by county officials on June 16.

Grasshoppers thrive in hot, dry weather, said Pete Heule, life sciences outreach technician at the Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton.

When crops and plants are doing well, grasshoppers are not a problem, but in dry conditions grasshoppers feed on whatever is available, he said

"It wasn't too many years back where they were saying it was the worst drought in 100 years at least, so it might be that we're going to start seeing grasshoppers like we haven't seen in that many years as well," Heule said.

There are already reports of grasshoppers in the province, said Humphrey Banack, president of Wild Rose Agricultural Producers.

"They're not truly widespread yet … I have heard stories that in some areas they're getting to be a little more of a problem than others," Banack said.

Farmers can deal with the grasshoppers by using costly insecticides, but they can be harmful to the environment, he said.

However, spending that kind of money to save the little crops farmers have left on their fields may not be worthwhile, Banack said.

Fitness Scams

Fitness Scams
 by: Tracie Johanson
Caveat emptor is Latin for "let the buyer beware". Nowhere is this phrase more applicable than in the weight loss industry of today.
It seems that every time we turn around we are blasted and bombarded with the latest, greatest, new and improved treatment for obesity. From miracle pills to the latest fad diet, the gimmicks just keep coming. The sad truth is that few of these products work. Even fewer will result in real, permanent and lasting fat loss. A very few of the weight loss gimmicks on the market today are not only a consumer rip-off, but they are also quite dangerous.....even deadly. Caveat emptor indeed!
-> A PRIME SUSPECT?
As an example, consider the prescription diet drug Meridia. Does it help you lose weight? For some people, the answer is yes. For others, the answer is no. Can it kill you? The answer to this question seems to be a nervous 'maybe'. "The consumer group Public Citizen had petitioned the Food and Drug Administration for a ban, citing Meridia users who died of heart problems as young as their 20s and 30s. Even before Meridia was approved for sale, the FDA knew it could increase users' blood pressure, the group contended." (Source: www.cnn.com)
This week the FDA again refused to ban Meridia, even though whistleblower David Graham (an FDA drug safety officer) testified to Congress last fall that his agency was allowing five unsafe medicines to stay on the market, including Meridia.
-> ANOTHER PRIME SUSPECT?
Ephedra was banned in the United States last year, in part due to numerous deaths attributed to this popular weight loss supplement. On April 14, a federal Judge in Utah reversed the short-lived ban on ephedra. Within minutes, spammers were filling our email boxes with messages to BUY BUY BUY before ephedra was banned again.
One of these spammers, on their website, states that "Finally, the forbidden fat-burning herb banned for being 'too effective' – Ephedra – is available to the public again". We're not going to quote the source on this one because we don't want to give this guy any free publicity.
Yes, ephedra will help some people lose weight. Yes, ephedra is safe for some people in low doses. But there is that little nagging fact that people have DIED and that their deaths have been attributed to ephedra use.....
-> MORE EXAMPLES
"The Advertising Standards Authority in Great Britian has ordered L'Oreal to pull ads for an anti-cellulite cream. The board found that claims as to the effects and timeliness of the skin treatment were misleading and could not be backed up by any research. The ads featured Claudia Schiffer and L'Oreal has agreed to make changes to the advertisements." (Source: www.adjab.com)
For whatever reason, some people have decided that anabolic steroids are the best way to lose weight. Despite the well-documented and serious side-effects of steroid use, the lure of easy weight loss has caused many to throw caution to the wind. Perhaps the most concerning trend is steroid use among our teenage population: "Teens also listed steroids, growth hormone, amino acids and other potentially unhealthful products among those they'd tried in the previous year." (Source: www.cnn.com)
-> THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE ALTERNATIVE
Caveat emptor (let the buyer beware) is indeed the rule when it comes to many weight loss gimmicks. However, there is one weight loss method that has never been banned, has never led to an investigation, and has never been been listed on a 'whistleblower' fraud report: EXERCISE.
Exercise is the only path to health and fitness that virtually every doctor in the world agrees upon. Exercise is safe, effective, and brings many more benefits to our lives than diets or drugs ever will. Exercise is fun, invigorating, motivating and the single most powerful way to improve our life and well-being!
Instead of looking for another short-cut to weight loss success, choose the proven method that gets results. Choose exercise.

Lions look to reclaim top spot in CFL West

Wally Buono wants to reclaim top spot in the CFL West Division. (Darryl Dyck/Canadian Press)

There's been a change of personnel and a shift of attitude on the British Columbia Lions this season.

"We're not a team anymore that has laurels placed upon us for no reason," said veteran centre Angus Reid. "That's probably a good thing.

"Being the best for a long time and being expected to be the best … human nature would start to make you believe that. Now they say we're not. Human nature now is go out and prove critics wrong."

The Lions slipped to third in the CFL West Division last season with an 11-7-0 record.

It was the first time in five years B.C. didn't finish first in th

Montreal comedy conference to honour Hangover director Todd Phillips

Cast member Heather Graham, left, and director Todd Phillips are shown at the premiere of The Hangover in Los Angeles on June 2. (Matt Sayles/Associated Press)

Montreal's annual Just for Laughs Comedy Conference will honour Todd Phillips, creator of The Hangover, as comedy director of the year this July.

The tradition of honouring the best in the business began last year and also includes an award for the best comedy writer of the year. That award goes to Etan Cohen, who penned both Tropic Thunder and Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa.

Cohen will also speak at the conference, whose roster includes talented writers such as Tami Sagher of 30 Rock, Jeremy Garelick of The Break-Up and Dan Sterling of the Sarah Silverman Program.

Etan Cohen, not to be confused with screenwriter and director Ethan Coen, wrote for Beavis and Butthead, King of the Hill and American Dad before moving into feature screenwriting. He was co-executive producer for King of the Hill and won an Annie Award for one episode.

He is now writing a humorous take on Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes, set to star Sacha Baron Cohen as Holmes and Will Ferrell as Doctor Watson.

Phillips began his career as a documentary filmmaker of Frat House, which won a grand jury prize at Sundance.

He moved to features with Road Trip in 2000 and also directed Old School (2003), Starsky & Hutch (2004) and School For Scoundrels (2006).

Phillips was nominated for an Academy Award for best adapted screenplay for his screenwriting work on Borat in 2006.

The conference, scheduled for July 23 to 25, gathers comedy industry studio executives, broadcasters, agents, writers, filmmakers and comics to discuss the business of comedy.

Manitoba spends $1.4M to enhance firefighting water bombers

The Manitoba government is putting $1.4 million into upgrading its aging fleet of water bombers.

The money will mostly go to outfitting the province's seven water bombers with improved communications and navigation systems.

"Our equipment will be outfitted with enhanced vision systems for pilots to help them battle fires when visibility is low," said Conservation Minister Stan Struthers.

The upgrades are funded through Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation. They include state of-the-art navigation, communication, satellite-tracking and infrared vision systems for pilots flying in low-visibility conditions including dust, rain, smoke and darkness.

The pilots who fly the water bombers work under difficult conditions, said Ken Giesbrecht, director of Manitoba Air Services.

"Conditions can change, smoke swirls, and they can be in virtually what they call 'instrument conditions,' where they have no reference to the ground," he said. "In that case, they need the updated avionics to make sure the altitude is correct and also [that they are] away from any towers or hills."

Despite the unseasonably cold spring and summer, the province has not been immune to forest fires. This year, as of June 25, Manitoba Conservation's Fire Program has recorded 115 fires. Of those, 63 have been caused by people.

A breakdown of fires by provincial region:

• Northeast: 29
• Northwest: 38
• West: 17
• Central: 10
• East: 21.

Alberta least attractive province for energy investment: report

Report says Alberta's the least attractive province for oil and gas investment. (CP)

A new Fraser Institute report says Alberta is the now least attractive province in Canada when it comes to oil and gas investment.

The right-wing think tank, based in Calgary, released the report on Wednesday morning.

Research for the report included surveying petroleum executives and managers from around the world.

According to the institute's rankings, Alberta has dropped below Manitoba and Saskatchewan, and even trails Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.

The institute blames Alberta's poor showing on the industry's dissatisfaction with changes to the province's royalty regime, a lack of consultation and what it calls "a growing anti-energy bias."

No change in interest rate policy at U.S. Federal Reserve

Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke (AP Photo/Lawrence Jackson)

The U.S. Federal Reserve said Wednesday that it sees the pace of economic contraction slowing, as it left interest rates unchanged.

The central bank said conditions in financial markets "have generally improved in recent months."

"Household spending has shown further signs of stabilizing but remains constrained by ongoing job losses, lower housing wealth, and tight credit," the bank said. "Businesses are cutting back on fixed investment and staffing but appear to be making progress in bringing inventory stocks into better alignment with sales."

The Fed noted that prices of energy and other commodities have risen lately, but it said that "substantial resource slack" is likely to keep a lid on prices.

The Fed's open market committee, which sets monetary policy, expects that inflation will remain subdued "for some time."

The central bank left the target for the key federal funds rate unchanged at a range of between zero and 0.25 per cent, and said it is expected to remain there for an extended period.

Toronto calls heat alert

The City of Toronto has issued its first extreme heat alert of the summer. (CBC)

Toronto has declared its first extreme heat alert of the summer вЂ" while city services are virtually shut down by a civic workers strike.

Temperatures are forecast to reach 30 C on Wednesday and to stay in the high 20s for the next three or four days. The heat alert, the city says, will stay in place until further notice.

However, many of the city-run cooling centres вЂ" where residents and their pets can cool off and get a cold drink вЂ" are closed because of the strike by 24,000 municipal workers.

Instead the city is telling people to go to "make use of air conditioned shopping malls and local libraries as places to cool off."

A section of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre will also remain open 24 hours a day during the time the alert is in place.

Dozens die in bomb blast in Iraq

Men search for survivors buried in rubble after a deadly truck bombing Saturday near Kirkuk. (Emad Matti/ Associated Press)

A truck bomb exploded as worshippers left a Shia mosque in northern Iraq on Saturday, killing more than 70 people and wounding nearly 200 in the deadliest bombing this year.

The blast near Kirkuk вЂ" a city rife with ethnic tensions вЂ" came hours after the prime minister warned Iraqis to expect more violence as U.S. troops withdraw from Iraqi cities by the end of this month, but he insisted the deadline will be met "no matter what happens."

Worshippers were leaving the mosque in Taza, 20 kilometres south of Kirkuk, following noon prayers when the truck exploded, demolishing the mosque and several mud-brick houses across the street, according to police and witnesses.

Rescue teams searched into the night to find people buried under the rubble while women begged police to let them near the site so they could search for loved ones. The U.S. military said it was providing generator lights and water at the site.

The death toll rose to at least 72 as more bodies were found beneath the debris, according to police and hospital officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to release the information.

Brig. Gen. Sarhat Qadir of the Kirkuk police force said earlier that at least 63 people were killed and 170 were wounded, but he expected the number to rise.

Witnesses said the truck was parked across the street from the mosque and they assumed the driver was praying, although Kirkuk's police chief, Maj. Gen. Jamal Tahir, said investigators were looking into the possibility it was a suicide bombing.

Many of the town's residents had fled to neighbouring Iran under Saddam Hussein's Sunni-dominated regime but returned following the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.

Nobody claimed responsibility for the attack, but it bore the hallmark of al-Qaeda in Iraq or other Sunni insurgents who remain active in northern Iraq despite security gains.

The Americans have begun pulling back combat troops from inner-city outposts in Baghdad, Mosul and other urban areas ahead of the June 30 deadline set in a security pact that calls for a full U.S. withdrawal from Iraq by 2012.

But continued assassinations and high-profile explosions have heightened concerns that Iraqi forces are not ready to take over their own security.