Runners can run in nearly any clothing as long as they have running shoes, but bicyclists practically require the highly specialized apparel of their sport.Even casual bike riders will benefit hugely in comfort, speed, safety and satisfaction if they don cycling clothing.Your bicycle itself may demand cycling shoes and your first experience with the chafing and pounding of a bike seat may convince you to wear cycling shorts, but you should also, less obviously, ride in a cycling jersey.
Cycling jerseys will not significantly add to your speed or safety, but they will definitely enhance your total riding experience in several ways.One, they are made to help your body deal with the energy draining impact of wind and weather as you ride.Most cycling jerseys are made of synthetic fabrics that will allow your body to perspire and wick the resultant moisture efficiently from the surface of your skin.Some of today's miracle fabrics, though lightweight as can be, also work powerfully to repel water and resist wind.Combined with the fact that zippered jerseys can be easily opened or closed in the front to allow or discourage air venting, cycling jerseys add enormously to the bicyclist's ability to withstand variations in weather conditions.
What is most cherished by riders about cycling jerseys, though, is simpler.It's the famous back pocket, standard and requisite equipment of any jersey.Whether you are a touring rider, a mountain maniac, or a road racer, the back pocket of your jersey is what Mama Kangaroo's front pocket is to her joey: Life. In this pocket, you will stash energy bars, goo packets, maybe bee pollen.This is your basic on-bike sustenance kit.Into this seemingly endless storage chamber, you will stuff the gloves you no longer need now that the sun's come out, and even the cell phone prudent cyclists carry (for safety, not for idle chatter).Your litter should also be stuffed into this pocket as you consume food.It is amazing what all goes into this pocket, and all without significantly impacting the efficiency of your cycling.
So go ahead.Wear a jersey.Wear it as gaudily as you like. Gaudiness and its companion brilliance, are your birthright as a bicyclist!
Ask Yourself These Questions When Shopping For Cycling Jerseys
Posted on
Jumat, 30 April 2010 |
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Artists Biographies on Film: Top Movies about Visual Artists
Posted on
Kamis, 29 April 2010 |
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Visual artists biographies is a popular theme in the movie world. Moviemakers have always been fascinated by visual artists biographies, especially if it includes struggle with insanity, drug addiction or social conventions. In addition, it gives them an opportunity to depict original or resurrected artworks on the big screen.
Here you can read about some of the most interesting movies about visual artists biographies.
Lust for Life directed by Vincente Minnelli in 1952
Vincent Van Gogh biography had gained several cinematic adaptations. Lust for Life with Kirk Douglas as the struggling artist is one of the most notable. The movie is based on a best selling book by Irving Stone, who also authored The Agony and the Ecstasy about Michelangelo, which also had appeared on the silver screen.
If you are a fan of Van Gogh artwork, you would enjoy watching Last for Life, which features almost 200 of Van Goghs original paintings. However, if you are familiar with Kirk Douglas previous filmographic, seeing him as a tortured Dutch painter might take a little adjustment. Another recommended film about Van Gogh is Robert Altmans Vincent and Theo from 1990.
Surviving Picasso directed by James Ivory in 1996
Like Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso image made him an iconic figure outside the artistic circles. While Van Gogh symbolizes the self destructive, manic depressive artist who achieves success only after his death, Picasso represents the misanthropic and womanizer artist. Picasso infamous relationship with women is the focus of this Merchant and Ivory film. The story is told from the eyes of Picasso mistress Francoise Gilot and features only reproductions of Picasso works. With Anthony Hopkins talent and his physical resemblance to Picasso, Surviving Picasso manages to create an unflattering portrait of an artist as a cruel, self centered genius.
Girl with Pearl Earring directed by Peter Webber in 2003
Comparing to Van Gogh and Picasso, Vermeers biography is less known and less controversial. Therefore Girl with Pearl Earring is much more restrained and delicate. The movie focuses on a short period in Vermeers life in which he was painting the portrait of his young low class maid. Although Girl with Pearl Earring does not avoid filmic conventions by over dramatizing Vermeers painting process, the movie is worth watching if only for its artistic design, which success in evoking Vermeers perception of light and color.
Basquiat directed by Julian Schnabel in 1996
The most common critique against movies that deals with visual arts is the way they depict the creation process. Therefore, there were big expectations from Basquiat, which was directed by the celebrated painter Julian Schnabel. Schnabel did well in depicting Jean Michelle Basquiat rise and fall story in less the predictable manner we have seen millions time before. However, the only reason to watch Basquiat is David Bowie plays the role of Andy Warhol.
Frida directed by Julie Taymor in 2002
Like most of the visual artists who had their life story appear on the silver screen, Frida Kahlo carried an unusual biography, which includes bus accident, problematic marriage, and an affair with Leon Trotsky. Like Van Gogh, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, who was the subject of a biopic from 2000, Frida Kahlo was an icon long before Frida was released, but the 123 minutes film did help to strength her position as a feminist idol and probably the most famous woman painter of the 20 century. Frida tries its best to integrate Frida Kahlo life story with her painting and the result is very colorful and pleasant, but still does not stay far enough from the conventions of depicting artists on film.
Here you can read about some of the most interesting movies about visual artists biographies.
Lust for Life directed by Vincente Minnelli in 1952
Vincent Van Gogh biography had gained several cinematic adaptations. Lust for Life with Kirk Douglas as the struggling artist is one of the most notable. The movie is based on a best selling book by Irving Stone, who also authored The Agony and the Ecstasy about Michelangelo, which also had appeared on the silver screen.
If you are a fan of Van Gogh artwork, you would enjoy watching Last for Life, which features almost 200 of Van Goghs original paintings. However, if you are familiar with Kirk Douglas previous filmographic, seeing him as a tortured Dutch painter might take a little adjustment. Another recommended film about Van Gogh is Robert Altmans Vincent and Theo from 1990.
Surviving Picasso directed by James Ivory in 1996
Like Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso image made him an iconic figure outside the artistic circles. While Van Gogh symbolizes the self destructive, manic depressive artist who achieves success only after his death, Picasso represents the misanthropic and womanizer artist. Picasso infamous relationship with women is the focus of this Merchant and Ivory film. The story is told from the eyes of Picasso mistress Francoise Gilot and features only reproductions of Picasso works. With Anthony Hopkins talent and his physical resemblance to Picasso, Surviving Picasso manages to create an unflattering portrait of an artist as a cruel, self centered genius.
Girl with Pearl Earring directed by Peter Webber in 2003
Comparing to Van Gogh and Picasso, Vermeers biography is less known and less controversial. Therefore Girl with Pearl Earring is much more restrained and delicate. The movie focuses on a short period in Vermeers life in which he was painting the portrait of his young low class maid. Although Girl with Pearl Earring does not avoid filmic conventions by over dramatizing Vermeers painting process, the movie is worth watching if only for its artistic design, which success in evoking Vermeers perception of light and color.
Basquiat directed by Julian Schnabel in 1996
The most common critique against movies that deals with visual arts is the way they depict the creation process. Therefore, there were big expectations from Basquiat, which was directed by the celebrated painter Julian Schnabel. Schnabel did well in depicting Jean Michelle Basquiat rise and fall story in less the predictable manner we have seen millions time before. However, the only reason to watch Basquiat is David Bowie plays the role of Andy Warhol.
Frida directed by Julie Taymor in 2002
Like most of the visual artists who had their life story appear on the silver screen, Frida Kahlo carried an unusual biography, which includes bus accident, problematic marriage, and an affair with Leon Trotsky. Like Van Gogh, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, who was the subject of a biopic from 2000, Frida Kahlo was an icon long before Frida was released, but the 123 minutes film did help to strength her position as a feminist idol and probably the most famous woman painter of the 20 century. Frida tries its best to integrate Frida Kahlo life story with her painting and the result is very colorful and pleasant, but still does not stay far enough from the conventions of depicting artists on film.
Art theft is an ancient and complicated crime. When you look at the some of the most famous cases of art thefts in history, you see thoroughly planned operations that involve art dealers, art fakers, mobsters, ransoms, and millions of dollars. Here you can read about some of the most famous cases of art theft in the history.
The First Theft:
The first documented case of art theft was in 1473, when two panels of altarpiece of the Last Judgment by the Dutch painter Hans Memling were stolen. While the triptych was being transported by ship from the Netherlands to Florence, the ship was attacked by pirates who took it to the Gdansk cathedral in Poland. Nowadays, the piece is shown at the National Museum in Gdansk where it was recently moved from the Basilica of the Assumption.
The Most Famous Theft:
The most famous story of art theft involves one of the most famous paintings in the world and one of the most famous artists in history as a suspect. In the night of August 21, 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen out of the Louver. Soon after, Pablo Picasso was arrested and questioned by the police, but was released quickly.
It took about two years until the mystery was solved by the Parisian police. It turned out that the 30×21 inch painting was taken by one of the museum employees by the name of Vincenzo Peruggia, who simply carried it hidden under his coat. Nevertheless, Peruggia did not work alone. The crime was carefully conducted by a notorious con man, Eduardo de Valfierno, who was sent by an art faker who intended to make copies and sell them as if they were the original painting.
While Yves Chaudron, the art faker, was busy creating copies for the famous masterpiece, Mona Lisa was still hidden at Peruggias apartment. After two years in which Peruggia did not hear from Chaudron, he tried to make the best out of his stolen good. Eventually, Peruggia was caught by the police while trying to sell the painting to an art dealer from Florence, Italy. The Mona Lisa was returned to the Louver in 1913.
The Biggest Theft in the USA:
The biggest art theft in United States took place at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. On the night of March 18, 1990, a group of thieves wearing police uniforms broke into the museum and took thirteen paintings whose collective value was estimated at around 300 million dollars. The thieves took two paintings and one print by Rembrandt, and works of Vermeer, Manet, Degas, Govaert Flinck, as well as a French and a Chinese artifact.
As of yet, none of the paintings have been found and the case is still unsolved. According to recent rumors, the FBI are investigating the possibility that the Boston Mob along with French art dealers are connected to the crime.
The Scream:
The painting by Edvard Munchs, The Scream, is probably the most sought after painting by art thieves in history. It has been stolen twice and was only recently recovered. In 1994, during the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway, The Scream was stolen from an Oslo gallery by two thieves who broke through an open window, set off the alarm and left a note saying: thanks for the poor security.
Three months later, the holders of the painting approached the Norwegian Government with an offer: 1 million dollars ransom for Edvard Munchs The Scream. The Government turned down the offer, but the Norwegian police collaborated with the British Police and the Getty Museum to organize a sting operation that brought back the painting to where it belongs.
Ten years later, The Scream was stolen again from the Munch Museum. This time, the robbers used a gun and took another of Munchs painting with them. While Museum officials waiting for the thieves to request ransom money, rumors claimed that both paintings were burned to conceal evidence. Eventually, the Norwegian police discovered the two paintings on August 31, 2006 but the facts on how they were recovered are not known yet.
The First Theft:
The first documented case of art theft was in 1473, when two panels of altarpiece of the Last Judgment by the Dutch painter Hans Memling were stolen. While the triptych was being transported by ship from the Netherlands to Florence, the ship was attacked by pirates who took it to the Gdansk cathedral in Poland. Nowadays, the piece is shown at the National Museum in Gdansk where it was recently moved from the Basilica of the Assumption.
The Most Famous Theft:
The most famous story of art theft involves one of the most famous paintings in the world and one of the most famous artists in history as a suspect. In the night of August 21, 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen out of the Louver. Soon after, Pablo Picasso was arrested and questioned by the police, but was released quickly.
It took about two years until the mystery was solved by the Parisian police. It turned out that the 30×21 inch painting was taken by one of the museum employees by the name of Vincenzo Peruggia, who simply carried it hidden under his coat. Nevertheless, Peruggia did not work alone. The crime was carefully conducted by a notorious con man, Eduardo de Valfierno, who was sent by an art faker who intended to make copies and sell them as if they were the original painting.
While Yves Chaudron, the art faker, was busy creating copies for the famous masterpiece, Mona Lisa was still hidden at Peruggias apartment. After two years in which Peruggia did not hear from Chaudron, he tried to make the best out of his stolen good. Eventually, Peruggia was caught by the police while trying to sell the painting to an art dealer from Florence, Italy. The Mona Lisa was returned to the Louver in 1913.
The Biggest Theft in the USA:
The biggest art theft in United States took place at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. On the night of March 18, 1990, a group of thieves wearing police uniforms broke into the museum and took thirteen paintings whose collective value was estimated at around 300 million dollars. The thieves took two paintings and one print by Rembrandt, and works of Vermeer, Manet, Degas, Govaert Flinck, as well as a French and a Chinese artifact.
As of yet, none of the paintings have been found and the case is still unsolved. According to recent rumors, the FBI are investigating the possibility that the Boston Mob along with French art dealers are connected to the crime.
The Scream:
The painting by Edvard Munchs, The Scream, is probably the most sought after painting by art thieves in history. It has been stolen twice and was only recently recovered. In 1994, during the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway, The Scream was stolen from an Oslo gallery by two thieves who broke through an open window, set off the alarm and left a note saying: thanks for the poor security.
Three months later, the holders of the painting approached the Norwegian Government with an offer: 1 million dollars ransom for Edvard Munchs The Scream. The Government turned down the offer, but the Norwegian police collaborated with the British Police and the Getty Museum to organize a sting operation that brought back the painting to where it belongs.
Ten years later, The Scream was stolen again from the Munch Museum. This time, the robbers used a gun and took another of Munchs painting with them. While Museum officials waiting for the thieves to request ransom money, rumors claimed that both paintings were burned to conceal evidence. Eventually, the Norwegian police discovered the two paintings on August 31, 2006 but the facts on how they were recovered are not known yet.
Barcelona fans have a right to be happy after all they crowned themselves with their second their second European Cup, this doesn’t take a way the fact that we also have pay tribute to the Arsenal who after all proved to be a great team also. Arsenal did a great job and played a great game it was not surprising after all that they were so hard to beat.
Arsenal started really well and it seems that when a player is sent off it is even more difficult to break down a side this also changed the game in a dramatic manner. When they scored the goal it helped them even more because to any soccer team a goal means hope and it accelerates rhythm and spirit.
Frank Rijkaard, a three-times European Cup winner as a defender with AC Milan and Ajax Amsterdam, joined the small list as he became the fifth man to win the competition as player and coach. In this list he is joined by Real Madrid coach Miguel Munoz, Dutchman Johan Cruyff, and Italians Giovanni Trapattoni and Carlo Ancelotti. I am sure that if he enjoyed it as a player he will certainly be enjoying it now.
The fact is that after the equalizing goal came for Barcelona things got untangled, it was very important and it busted Arsenal’s mental state as a team with one less player. After that Barcelona got in control and it was great that they won such a special game.
Arsenal started really well and it seems that when a player is sent off it is even more difficult to break down a side this also changed the game in a dramatic manner. When they scored the goal it helped them even more because to any soccer team a goal means hope and it accelerates rhythm and spirit.
Frank Rijkaard, a three-times European Cup winner as a defender with AC Milan and Ajax Amsterdam, joined the small list as he became the fifth man to win the competition as player and coach. In this list he is joined by Real Madrid coach Miguel Munoz, Dutchman Johan Cruyff, and Italians Giovanni Trapattoni and Carlo Ancelotti. I am sure that if he enjoyed it as a player he will certainly be enjoying it now.
The fact is that after the equalizing goal came for Barcelona things got untangled, it was very important and it busted Arsenal’s mental state as a team with one less player. After that Barcelona got in control and it was great that they won such a special game.
"I just had a bad day," said Cruz, who allowed the nine, runs in five hits, three walks and two hit batsmen. "That was the worst game in my entire career." But the D’Backs can’t worry too much about this game because they had their share of runs too, it was just a bad first inning for Arizona, and there’s a long season still ahead.
Lineup
1. Craig Counsell, SS. 2.Eric Byrnes, CF. 3.Chad Tracy, 3rd B. 4. Luis Gonzalez, LF. 5. Conor Jackson, 1st B. 6. Shawn Green, RF. 7.Johnny Estrada, C. 8.Orlando Hudson, 2nd B. 9. Juan Cruz, P.
Last week against the Pirates the Reds were trailing 6-0 and finished 9-8 in a game that was thrilling from beginning to end, The Cincinnati Reds seemed out of this one early. They were down by six runs in the first inning and a sixth consecutive loss looked all but certain.
Ken Griffey Jr.'s soft line drive single drove in two runs during a four-run seventh inning and the Reds ended a five-game losing streak, rallying from the early deficit to beat the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday.
"There was no panic at all -- the last thing we needed to do was panic," catcher Jason LaRue said. "We needed to go out and get some hits, get guys over and get them into scoring position and do the little things. Today, we were able to capitalize on that."
The Reds need to keep playing like they did in this game and like they were playing at the beginning of the season if they want to get somewhere this year, hopefully this series against the D’Backs will be very good, if you like sports betting don’t miss the chance to bet on a series such exciting as this one.
Lineup
1. Felipe Lopez, SS. 2. Adam Dunn, LF. Ken Griffey Jr., CF. 4. Austin Kearns, RF. 5. Scott Hatteberg, 1st B. 6. Edwin Encarnacion, 3rd B. 7. Jason LaRue, C. 8. Ryan Freel, 2nd B. 9. Dave Williams, P.
Lineup
1. Craig Counsell, SS. 2.Eric Byrnes, CF. 3.Chad Tracy, 3rd B. 4. Luis Gonzalez, LF. 5. Conor Jackson, 1st B. 6. Shawn Green, RF. 7.Johnny Estrada, C. 8.Orlando Hudson, 2nd B. 9. Juan Cruz, P.
Last week against the Pirates the Reds were trailing 6-0 and finished 9-8 in a game that was thrilling from beginning to end, The Cincinnati Reds seemed out of this one early. They were down by six runs in the first inning and a sixth consecutive loss looked all but certain.
Ken Griffey Jr.'s soft line drive single drove in two runs during a four-run seventh inning and the Reds ended a five-game losing streak, rallying from the early deficit to beat the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday.
"There was no panic at all -- the last thing we needed to do was panic," catcher Jason LaRue said. "We needed to go out and get some hits, get guys over and get them into scoring position and do the little things. Today, we were able to capitalize on that."
The Reds need to keep playing like they did in this game and like they were playing at the beginning of the season if they want to get somewhere this year, hopefully this series against the D’Backs will be very good, if you like sports betting don’t miss the chance to bet on a series such exciting as this one.
Lineup
1. Felipe Lopez, SS. 2. Adam Dunn, LF. Ken Griffey Jr., CF. 4. Austin Kearns, RF. 5. Scott Hatteberg, 1st B. 6. Edwin Encarnacion, 3rd B. 7. Jason LaRue, C. 8. Ryan Freel, 2nd B. 9. Dave Williams, P.
Are you talented? Are you interested in joining a competition but don’t known where to find one?
Posted on
Minggu, 25 April 2010 |
0
komentar
There are numerous competitions that are currently going on around the world, but many of us don't know where to find them. In this scenario, competearoundtheworld offers you a resource full of information on various categories of competitions that is going on through out the world. Whether it is on writing, dancing, painting, drawing, mathematics, science, quiz, music, photography, poetry, or no matter what it is or where it may be, if you can name a competition this site finds it for you.
In this way, anyone, from a small village to a big city, can have access to find what they want. A healthy competition is a great way to build confidence, appreciate talent, and help to create new innovative ideas, while contributing to life’s growth. As a responsible company, competearoundtheworld plays a vital role in bringing individuals, rich or poor, who may not have access to the global community, a chance to have an opportunity to participate, and win a competition.
Both winners and losers of competitions come away with valuable experience. This experience increases interest in their chosen field or talent, as well as encourages creativity and innovation. While winners want to win more, losers strive to beat the winners after realizing their mistakes. This healthy environment gives a great boost for new talent, benefiting all of our society. Competitions also are instrumental in building a reputation for participants in their fields, both as individuals or as a group.
The goal of this site is to obtain all information about current competitions around the world, for both online and onsite competitions. This site wants to be a valuable resource for everyone in the future. The specialty of this site is that it bans all competitions that are not suitable for general audience, i.e., adult, sex, sweepstake, and lottery. Further this site follows strict guidelines and ensures reviewing of all reported competitions before making it available for the public.
It is a known fact that each and every individual has a unique talent. This site aims to play a role in bringing out that talent, providing a comprehensive resource of information to find competitions and competitors. This is purely a confidence building site; again, through healthy competitions. Practice makes perfect, people make mistakes and by correcting mistakes, improvement and success is achieved. Competition in this world is a continuous process, whether its business, studies, or career everyone has some sort of competition in his or her life, and competing with others is a never ending job. Even before our birth we competed along with other sperms to get first place into our mother’s ovary. So we all have won a great competition even before our birth! Every one of us is a winner, a born winner, but we lose that confidence as we grow older, and we forget our past successes. Competition is one of the best ways to identify the talent, innovation and growth for this world. This site aims to play a small role in that growth, by providing this rich resource. All you need it to log on to our website and join your preferred category of competition and win prizes and accolades from all over the world. This site and all its resources are offered freely to all who are interested.
So Come, Compete and Lets’ Conquer this world.
In this way, anyone, from a small village to a big city, can have access to find what they want. A healthy competition is a great way to build confidence, appreciate talent, and help to create new innovative ideas, while contributing to life’s growth. As a responsible company, competearoundtheworld plays a vital role in bringing individuals, rich or poor, who may not have access to the global community, a chance to have an opportunity to participate, and win a competition.
Both winners and losers of competitions come away with valuable experience. This experience increases interest in their chosen field or talent, as well as encourages creativity and innovation. While winners want to win more, losers strive to beat the winners after realizing their mistakes. This healthy environment gives a great boost for new talent, benefiting all of our society. Competitions also are instrumental in building a reputation for participants in their fields, both as individuals or as a group.
The goal of this site is to obtain all information about current competitions around the world, for both online and onsite competitions. This site wants to be a valuable resource for everyone in the future. The specialty of this site is that it bans all competitions that are not suitable for general audience, i.e., adult, sex, sweepstake, and lottery. Further this site follows strict guidelines and ensures reviewing of all reported competitions before making it available for the public.
It is a known fact that each and every individual has a unique talent. This site aims to play a role in bringing out that talent, providing a comprehensive resource of information to find competitions and competitors. This is purely a confidence building site; again, through healthy competitions. Practice makes perfect, people make mistakes and by correcting mistakes, improvement and success is achieved. Competition in this world is a continuous process, whether its business, studies, or career everyone has some sort of competition in his or her life, and competing with others is a never ending job. Even before our birth we competed along with other sperms to get first place into our mother’s ovary. So we all have won a great competition even before our birth! Every one of us is a winner, a born winner, but we lose that confidence as we grow older, and we forget our past successes. Competition is one of the best ways to identify the talent, innovation and growth for this world. This site aims to play a small role in that growth, by providing this rich resource. All you need it to log on to our website and join your preferred category of competition and win prizes and accolades from all over the world. This site and all its resources are offered freely to all who are interested.
So Come, Compete and Lets’ Conquer this world.
To be honest, I knew very little about fantasy football. I was one of those sports fans who follows football when it is in season, watches some games on TV, follows games on the internet, somehow remembers every score and stat, and then gets really excited during the playoffs and, of course, the Super Bowl. I don't have the time or money to go see actual NFL games, though I am sure I'd greatly enjoy them.
Anyway, I kept seeing ads for fantasy football online and in other places wondered what it was, so I did some research. Apparently, fantasy football is a sports game for those who want to be involved with football all year round. And not just involved as in watching games, but actually owning, managing and running a "fantasy" football team. When the real football season starts - and it can be the NFL or a division of the NCAA or some other league - scores in the fantasy football leagues are determined by using statistics compiled by actual players.
Who started fantasy football, and when? It all goes back almost 50 years when a limited partner in the Oakland Raiders and some of his sports writer and editor friends cooked up the idea during a long road trip. When they got back, they started the first fantasy football league. Initially, it was hard to form leagues and keep the information flowing, but then came personal computers and finally the Web. Today, fantasy football is big business and fantasy football team fanatics are being courted by television networks and advertisers because they watch more games, buy more tickets, and spend more on their sport than average fans.
But how does it all work? The big attraction of fantasy football is that it's not just watching games. Fantasy football is living the game and actively participating in it. You pick a team, you draft players, you follow rules, you observe salary caps and negotiate contracts. Franchise owners may have to pay (fictional) taxes, trade players, and, of course, try to win games and championships, establish dynasties or make to a coveted Hall of Fame. Things can get quite competitive, but you make friends in the process and many of the same teams play each other season after season.
Fantasy football games have as many rules as the real thing. Scoring can be complex as it depends on the stats of actual players on actual teams. And since fantasy league teams have players from a number of teams, a fantasy franchise owner often doesn't know which real-world team he should root for! What's important here is that the real performance and stats of real players in real games decides how well your fantasy team does. So picking and drafting the right players is very important.
How do you get started with this fascinating and addictive pastime? Fantasy football information is easy to come by on the web. Look around, check some of the many leagues, and then sign up with one and become a team owner. There are any number of leagues with different flavors and rules (the commissioner usually determines the scoring system). Some leagues cost a lot, but others are affordable and suit the novice as well as the expert fantasy football player. Give it a shot!
Anyway, I kept seeing ads for fantasy football online and in other places wondered what it was, so I did some research. Apparently, fantasy football is a sports game for those who want to be involved with football all year round. And not just involved as in watching games, but actually owning, managing and running a "fantasy" football team. When the real football season starts - and it can be the NFL or a division of the NCAA or some other league - scores in the fantasy football leagues are determined by using statistics compiled by actual players.
Who started fantasy football, and when? It all goes back almost 50 years when a limited partner in the Oakland Raiders and some of his sports writer and editor friends cooked up the idea during a long road trip. When they got back, they started the first fantasy football league. Initially, it was hard to form leagues and keep the information flowing, but then came personal computers and finally the Web. Today, fantasy football is big business and fantasy football team fanatics are being courted by television networks and advertisers because they watch more games, buy more tickets, and spend more on their sport than average fans.
But how does it all work? The big attraction of fantasy football is that it's not just watching games. Fantasy football is living the game and actively participating in it. You pick a team, you draft players, you follow rules, you observe salary caps and negotiate contracts. Franchise owners may have to pay (fictional) taxes, trade players, and, of course, try to win games and championships, establish dynasties or make to a coveted Hall of Fame. Things can get quite competitive, but you make friends in the process and many of the same teams play each other season after season.
Fantasy football games have as many rules as the real thing. Scoring can be complex as it depends on the stats of actual players on actual teams. And since fantasy league teams have players from a number of teams, a fantasy franchise owner often doesn't know which real-world team he should root for! What's important here is that the real performance and stats of real players in real games decides how well your fantasy team does. So picking and drafting the right players is very important.
How do you get started with this fascinating and addictive pastime? Fantasy football information is easy to come by on the web. Look around, check some of the many leagues, and then sign up with one and become a team owner. There are any number of leagues with different flavors and rules (the commissioner usually determines the scoring system). Some leagues cost a lot, but others are affordable and suit the novice as well as the expert fantasy football player. Give it a shot!
Swim gear today offers many more options and customizations than at any other point in history. You can even have prescription lens swim goggles that are custom made for not only your prescription but also to fit your face. In addition to thinks such as this, which are highly functional, there are now MP3 players made to stand up to the pressure of underwater use.
As I’ve said before, today’s swim gear is far superior to those that have come before. Even the swim fins on today’s market are highly specialized according the specific needs of individual swimmers. It’s great to know that we live in a society, even world, that has evolved into understanding that one size does not indeed fit all. Swim gear that is made to suit your body’s individual build, structure, and your specific needs according to your level of expertise will give a competitive edge to those with experience and all novices to swim with more confidence than ever before.
Whether you are simply a recreational swimmer, a serious diver, a competitive swimmer, or somewhere in the middle you have probably agonized over whether or not you were buying the right gear for your particular circumstances. Especially if you aren’t exactly sure what to do with the gear you’ve purchased. One rule of thumb is that if you don’t know what you are supposed to do with a piece of equipment it is best not to guess.
My best advice is to purchase all of your swim gear from a reputable dealer with a knowledgeable sales staff. If the staff doesn’t seem interested in educating you about the equipment you are purchasing, I recommend finding another store from which to purchase your equipment. Using some of this equipment without knowledge of how to properly do so can be deadly. Be certain you are getting a complete explanation of the equipment you are buying before you buy it.
As I’ve said before, today’s swim gear is far superior to those that have come before. Even the swim fins on today’s market are highly specialized according the specific needs of individual swimmers. It’s great to know that we live in a society, even world, that has evolved into understanding that one size does not indeed fit all. Swim gear that is made to suit your body’s individual build, structure, and your specific needs according to your level of expertise will give a competitive edge to those with experience and all novices to swim with more confidence than ever before.
Whether you are simply a recreational swimmer, a serious diver, a competitive swimmer, or somewhere in the middle you have probably agonized over whether or not you were buying the right gear for your particular circumstances. Especially if you aren’t exactly sure what to do with the gear you’ve purchased. One rule of thumb is that if you don’t know what you are supposed to do with a piece of equipment it is best not to guess.
My best advice is to purchase all of your swim gear from a reputable dealer with a knowledgeable sales staff. If the staff doesn’t seem interested in educating you about the equipment you are purchasing, I recommend finding another store from which to purchase your equipment. Using some of this equipment without knowledge of how to properly do so can be deadly. Be certain you are getting a complete explanation of the equipment you are buying before you buy it.
Archery is a sport or practice of using a bow to shoot arrows. Throughout history archery was used for many purposes including hunting and combat. It now has mainly become a sport of precision. Some history on archery is that it was said to have begun around 15,000 years ago, but the earliest that proven evidence was reported on archery was between 8,000 and 9,000 years ago. The bow is said to have originally come from the use of hunting animals, and then it became a very useful tool in combat and warfare. It became the dominant means of shooting projectiles after replacing the "atlatl".
Some of the histories of Archery include Classical, Medieval and Asian Archery. The Classical groups that used archery included the Greeks, Indians, and Chinese. They had great numbers of archers in their armies.
Archers were one of the most decisive tools in warfare. Some archers were known to ride horseback, where combining their range, speed and mobility proved to be one of the deadliest weapons of all warfare. The phrase "a parting shot" came from this type of riding and it meant that a rider turned in the saddle to shoot as he rode away from the enemy.
Medieval European archery is one of the more popular studied forms of archery and it is recognized that the archers in the warfare of Western Europe were the most vital tool in their armoury. What many don't know is that they were one of the lowest paid of all types of soldiers. Because bows and arrows were so inexpensive it was cheaper to arm a man with these than to arm a man with a sword and highly expensive protective armour. The bow, to them, was viewed as a "lower class weapon", and it was hardly used to actually decide any of their battles.
The Vikings were the most noted for using archers in their battles, and that is why they had so much widespread success throughout the 9th and 10th centuries. Archers from this era were often trained very hard from early stages of childhood. Usually the boys were given bows that were of their own height and tournaments were regularly held to help the boys practice their efficiency.
In parts of Asia, archery was also highly developed. It is noted that Central Asian tribesmen were the most skilled at archery on horseback. These "horse archers" would shoot while charging at their targets, then in one motion turn around in their saddles and shoot at the targets again while they rode away.
A deviation from the norm in Asian archery was a tool called the "Foot-Bow". These were often preferred because they could fire arrows a lot faster, and at a longer range than most conventional bows or crossbows. The technique to use a foot-bow was for the person to lie down on their back, with the bow at their feet, then they would put the arrow between their feet and pull the string on the bow back with both of their hands and use their back and legs to bend the bow. It was said that the aim was not very good, but with the combined weight and velocity of the five foot long arrows, that became less important.
Some of the histories of Archery include Classical, Medieval and Asian Archery. The Classical groups that used archery included the Greeks, Indians, and Chinese. They had great numbers of archers in their armies.
Archers were one of the most decisive tools in warfare. Some archers were known to ride horseback, where combining their range, speed and mobility proved to be one of the deadliest weapons of all warfare. The phrase "a parting shot" came from this type of riding and it meant that a rider turned in the saddle to shoot as he rode away from the enemy.
Medieval European archery is one of the more popular studied forms of archery and it is recognized that the archers in the warfare of Western Europe were the most vital tool in their armoury. What many don't know is that they were one of the lowest paid of all types of soldiers. Because bows and arrows were so inexpensive it was cheaper to arm a man with these than to arm a man with a sword and highly expensive protective armour. The bow, to them, was viewed as a "lower class weapon", and it was hardly used to actually decide any of their battles.
The Vikings were the most noted for using archers in their battles, and that is why they had so much widespread success throughout the 9th and 10th centuries. Archers from this era were often trained very hard from early stages of childhood. Usually the boys were given bows that were of their own height and tournaments were regularly held to help the boys practice their efficiency.
In parts of Asia, archery was also highly developed. It is noted that Central Asian tribesmen were the most skilled at archery on horseback. These "horse archers" would shoot while charging at their targets, then in one motion turn around in their saddles and shoot at the targets again while they rode away.
A deviation from the norm in Asian archery was a tool called the "Foot-Bow". These were often preferred because they could fire arrows a lot faster, and at a longer range than most conventional bows or crossbows. The technique to use a foot-bow was for the person to lie down on their back, with the bow at their feet, then they would put the arrow between their feet and pull the string on the bow back with both of their hands and use their back and legs to bend the bow. It was said that the aim was not very good, but with the combined weight and velocity of the five foot long arrows, that became less important.
Another Excuse for Sugar: Halloween Costume Party Desserts!
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Rabu, 21 April 2010 |
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A favorite, all-American dessert is the Rice Crispy Treat, a lip smacking pairing of marshmallow and crispy rice cereal into a crunchy, sweet dessert bar. To make a fabulous dessert to bring to the neighborhood Halloween costume party, prepare the Rice Crispy Treats according to your favorite recipe.
When it comes time to press your gooey mixture into a baking dish, use a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter to shape your tricky treats. Use chocolate chips to create eyes and a mouth for a Jack-o-Lantern perfect for a Halloween costume party. You can also use other Halloween costume shapes like a ghost or a witch to make them. I’ve opted to use different ingredients to make a wide variety of Rice Crispy Halloween costume party treats, like caramel chips to create the pumpkin’s orange color or green food color to make the Wicked Witch an emerald green.
Everyone Likes to Be Tricked and Treated at Halloween Costume Parties
At my elementary school, everyone longed for the day that they would be in Ms. Larsen’s 4th grade class. She was known as the festive holiday chef, and she would tailor her lessons and class activities to fit with the current holiday. At Halloween, she would let us all wear Halloween costumes to school, and in all her years of teaching, she always wore a Halloween costume, too. One beloved class tradition was making Spooky Soil, or put simply, Dirt. It sounds rather unappetizing, doesn’t it? Just keep in mind that the ingredients are crushed Oreos, chocolate pudding, gummy worms and spiders, and fudge. It’s one of the simplest recipes out there. You just need two prepared packages of pudding, a bag of Oreos, some creepy-crawling gummy worms, insects, and spiders, and a warmed-up jar of store-bought fudge or chocolate syrup. Mix up all the ingredients, and serve in clear throwaway cups. I’ve made this “dish” and served it at Halloween costume parties in a black plastic cauldron. Let your ghoulish guests ladle out worms and layers of delicious dirt!
Try to Add Festive Extra Touches to your Halloween Costume Party Recipes
Many trick-or-treaters and Halloween costume party guests have savored the delectably sweet bites of a candied apple. What a great combination of crisp, fresh apple and lick-your-lips melted caramel! This year, why not hand out (or serve at your Halloween costume party) an extra special variation on the candied apple? Melt 14 ounces caramel with about a tablespoon of water on your stovetop. Be sure to stir constantly, so that your sugary mixture does not burn. Using six washed apples of your favorite variety (many people prefer the tart, tangy taste of Granny Smith), dip apples individually in the caramel mixture. Set the apples on a sheet of wax paper. Let cool for 10 minutes. Next, melt 4 ounces chocolate chips over the stovetop, and dip apples halfway into melted chocolate. Let cool entirely on the wax paper, and serve in a festive bowl. It’s a wonderful way to change up your menu at your Halloween costume party—and the three layers look great!
When it comes time to press your gooey mixture into a baking dish, use a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter to shape your tricky treats. Use chocolate chips to create eyes and a mouth for a Jack-o-Lantern perfect for a Halloween costume party. You can also use other Halloween costume shapes like a ghost or a witch to make them. I’ve opted to use different ingredients to make a wide variety of Rice Crispy Halloween costume party treats, like caramel chips to create the pumpkin’s orange color or green food color to make the Wicked Witch an emerald green.
Everyone Likes to Be Tricked and Treated at Halloween Costume Parties
At my elementary school, everyone longed for the day that they would be in Ms. Larsen’s 4th grade class. She was known as the festive holiday chef, and she would tailor her lessons and class activities to fit with the current holiday. At Halloween, she would let us all wear Halloween costumes to school, and in all her years of teaching, she always wore a Halloween costume, too. One beloved class tradition was making Spooky Soil, or put simply, Dirt. It sounds rather unappetizing, doesn’t it? Just keep in mind that the ingredients are crushed Oreos, chocolate pudding, gummy worms and spiders, and fudge. It’s one of the simplest recipes out there. You just need two prepared packages of pudding, a bag of Oreos, some creepy-crawling gummy worms, insects, and spiders, and a warmed-up jar of store-bought fudge or chocolate syrup. Mix up all the ingredients, and serve in clear throwaway cups. I’ve made this “dish” and served it at Halloween costume parties in a black plastic cauldron. Let your ghoulish guests ladle out worms and layers of delicious dirt!
Try to Add Festive Extra Touches to your Halloween Costume Party Recipes
Many trick-or-treaters and Halloween costume party guests have savored the delectably sweet bites of a candied apple. What a great combination of crisp, fresh apple and lick-your-lips melted caramel! This year, why not hand out (or serve at your Halloween costume party) an extra special variation on the candied apple? Melt 14 ounces caramel with about a tablespoon of water on your stovetop. Be sure to stir constantly, so that your sugary mixture does not burn. Using six washed apples of your favorite variety (many people prefer the tart, tangy taste of Granny Smith), dip apples individually in the caramel mixture. Set the apples on a sheet of wax paper. Let cool for 10 minutes. Next, melt 4 ounces chocolate chips over the stovetop, and dip apples halfway into melted chocolate. Let cool entirely on the wax paper, and serve in a festive bowl. It’s a wonderful way to change up your menu at your Halloween costume party—and the three layers look great!
Rookie goaltenders have had success in the Stanley Cup Playoffs before – most notably with Ken Dryden in 1971 and Patrick Roy in 1986, both leading the Montreal Canadiens to the Cup – but never before has a crop of rookie goalies dominated the playoffs like they have this season.
Of the five remaining teams in this year’s playoffs, three are led by rookie goalies and another by a first-year starter. Carolina’s Cam Ward, Buffalo’s Ryan Miller, Anaheim’s Ilya Bryzgalov, and San Jose’s Vesa Toskala have all enjoyed incredible playoff success thus far.
Seven-year veteran Dwayne Roloson of the Edmonton Oilers, who was acquired in a mid-season trade with the Minnesota Wild, is the only experienced goaltender left. I don’t think anyone would have predicted that, especially with the presence of such big-name goalies as Martin Brodeur and Miikka Kiprusoff, and other veteran backstops or NHL powerhouses like Detroit’s Manny Legace, Dallas’s Marty Turco, and Colorado’s Jose Theodore, among the contenders.
The New Favorite
Thanks to a surprisingly easy 4 games to 1 victory over the New Jersey Devils, and a dominating performance winning four straight games over Montreal after losing the first two in Round 1, the Carolina Hurricanes have emerged as the new favorite to win Lord Stanley’s Cup. Despite finishing the regular season with 112 points, just 1 behind Eastern Conference leader Ottawa, the Hurricanes’ odds of winning the Cup entering the playoffs were posted at 10-1. That was before the oddsmakers had seen Ward turn away almost every shot he’s faced.
In 10 playoff games, the 22-year-old rookie has allowed just 17 goals while posting a 1.77 goals against average (GAA). Ward let in just five goals in Carolina’s four victories over New Jersey as he outplayed his boyhood idol Brodeur. With his stellar play, and the Hurricanes’ opportunistic offense, led by 100-point scorer Eric Staal, Carolina will be tough to beat.
The Upstart Challenger
The Sabres’ Miller is the only U.S.-born goalie among the Fab Four. He hopes to duplicate the feat of another rookie American goalie, Ron Hextall, who led the Philadelphia Flyers to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1987. After a shaky start in Game 1 against Ottawa, Buffalo’s defense and Miller shut down the Senators the rest of the way, allowing two or fewer goals in each of the last four games. The Michigan native has a 2.25 GAA and a .921 save percentage in the first two rounds of the playoffs.
Buffalo’s defense has been stellar in front of Miller. Defensemen Toni Lydman and Henrik Tallinder lead all playoff performers in plus/minus at plus-13. The Sabres’ offense has been scoring in bunches. Buffalo has a team-leading 43 goals scored in 11 games and is riding high after winger Jason Pominville’s shorthanded, overtime goal clinched the series against Ottawa.
Mr. Perfect – Almost
Anaheim’s Bryzgalov has been the most surprising and impressive of all the rookies. Bryzgalov didn’t even enter the playoffs as the Ducks’ No. 1 goalie. That honor went to Jean-Sebastian Giguere, who led Anaheim to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2003, his second year in the league, and was named the Conn Smythe winner as the MVP of the playoffs that season.
After splitting their first four games against Calgary in Round 1, the Ducks made the switch to Bryzgalov and they haven’t regretted it. The 24-year-old Russian has practically stood on his head as he is sporting a ridiculous 0.87 GAA and .967 save percentage. He recorded three straight shutouts, including Game 7 at Calgary to clinch that series. In doing so, Bryzgalov set a rookie playoff record, holding opponents scoreless for 249 minutes, 15 seconds. Only Montreal’s George Hainsworth, 270:08 in 1930, has had a longer playoff scoreless streak.
The Final Four
San Jose’s Toskala is hoping to join his fellow first-year netminders in the conference finals. After an excellent series against Nashville in Round 1, including a shutout in Game 2, and two 2-1 victories to open the Edmonton series, Toskala and the Sharks find themselves on the ropes as the Oilers have stormed back to take a 3-2 series lead. Edmonton will try to close it out at home on Wednesday night.
San Jose’s offense is led by Patrick Marleau, who leads all playoff goal scorers with nine. The Sharks will need to get an early lead and help Toskala protect it to force a Game 7 at home on Friday.
The Finals
The matchup between Ward and Miller should be as entertaining as it gets. Both are capable of stealing a game or two for their respective teams. Carolina is the favorite, but Buffalo has a lot of momentum and Miller has shown he can win the close games with four one-goal victories against Ottawa. Look for the Sabres to get to the Finals.
The Ducks have had a long time off after unexpectedly sweeping the Avalanche. Anaheim may be a little rusty to start the conference finals, but the Ducks have good veteran leadership in Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne and will ride the stellar play of Bryzgalov past either the Oilers or the Sharks to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Of the five remaining teams in this year’s playoffs, three are led by rookie goalies and another by a first-year starter. Carolina’s Cam Ward, Buffalo’s Ryan Miller, Anaheim’s Ilya Bryzgalov, and San Jose’s Vesa Toskala have all enjoyed incredible playoff success thus far.
Seven-year veteran Dwayne Roloson of the Edmonton Oilers, who was acquired in a mid-season trade with the Minnesota Wild, is the only experienced goaltender left. I don’t think anyone would have predicted that, especially with the presence of such big-name goalies as Martin Brodeur and Miikka Kiprusoff, and other veteran backstops or NHL powerhouses like Detroit’s Manny Legace, Dallas’s Marty Turco, and Colorado’s Jose Theodore, among the contenders.
The New Favorite
Thanks to a surprisingly easy 4 games to 1 victory over the New Jersey Devils, and a dominating performance winning four straight games over Montreal after losing the first two in Round 1, the Carolina Hurricanes have emerged as the new favorite to win Lord Stanley’s Cup. Despite finishing the regular season with 112 points, just 1 behind Eastern Conference leader Ottawa, the Hurricanes’ odds of winning the Cup entering the playoffs were posted at 10-1. That was before the oddsmakers had seen Ward turn away almost every shot he’s faced.
In 10 playoff games, the 22-year-old rookie has allowed just 17 goals while posting a 1.77 goals against average (GAA). Ward let in just five goals in Carolina’s four victories over New Jersey as he outplayed his boyhood idol Brodeur. With his stellar play, and the Hurricanes’ opportunistic offense, led by 100-point scorer Eric Staal, Carolina will be tough to beat.
The Upstart Challenger
The Sabres’ Miller is the only U.S.-born goalie among the Fab Four. He hopes to duplicate the feat of another rookie American goalie, Ron Hextall, who led the Philadelphia Flyers to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1987. After a shaky start in Game 1 against Ottawa, Buffalo’s defense and Miller shut down the Senators the rest of the way, allowing two or fewer goals in each of the last four games. The Michigan native has a 2.25 GAA and a .921 save percentage in the first two rounds of the playoffs.
Buffalo’s defense has been stellar in front of Miller. Defensemen Toni Lydman and Henrik Tallinder lead all playoff performers in plus/minus at plus-13. The Sabres’ offense has been scoring in bunches. Buffalo has a team-leading 43 goals scored in 11 games and is riding high after winger Jason Pominville’s shorthanded, overtime goal clinched the series against Ottawa.
Mr. Perfect – Almost
Anaheim’s Bryzgalov has been the most surprising and impressive of all the rookies. Bryzgalov didn’t even enter the playoffs as the Ducks’ No. 1 goalie. That honor went to Jean-Sebastian Giguere, who led Anaheim to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2003, his second year in the league, and was named the Conn Smythe winner as the MVP of the playoffs that season.
After splitting their first four games against Calgary in Round 1, the Ducks made the switch to Bryzgalov and they haven’t regretted it. The 24-year-old Russian has practically stood on his head as he is sporting a ridiculous 0.87 GAA and .967 save percentage. He recorded three straight shutouts, including Game 7 at Calgary to clinch that series. In doing so, Bryzgalov set a rookie playoff record, holding opponents scoreless for 249 minutes, 15 seconds. Only Montreal’s George Hainsworth, 270:08 in 1930, has had a longer playoff scoreless streak.
The Final Four
San Jose’s Toskala is hoping to join his fellow first-year netminders in the conference finals. After an excellent series against Nashville in Round 1, including a shutout in Game 2, and two 2-1 victories to open the Edmonton series, Toskala and the Sharks find themselves on the ropes as the Oilers have stormed back to take a 3-2 series lead. Edmonton will try to close it out at home on Wednesday night.
San Jose’s offense is led by Patrick Marleau, who leads all playoff goal scorers with nine. The Sharks will need to get an early lead and help Toskala protect it to force a Game 7 at home on Friday.
The Finals
The matchup between Ward and Miller should be as entertaining as it gets. Both are capable of stealing a game or two for their respective teams. Carolina is the favorite, but Buffalo has a lot of momentum and Miller has shown he can win the close games with four one-goal victories against Ottawa. Look for the Sabres to get to the Finals.
The Ducks have had a long time off after unexpectedly sweeping the Avalanche. Anaheim may be a little rusty to start the conference finals, but the Ducks have good veteran leadership in Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne and will ride the stellar play of Bryzgalov past either the Oilers or the Sharks to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Many collectors hesitate to buy ancient coins to collect because they can be terribly expensive. What is most important is the uniqueness of these coins and the benefits they provide their collectors.
Here are some tips that should be considered when buying ancient coins:
1. Conduct a research of ancient coins. It is important that a collector is aware of what coins are considered ancient. It does not require a collector to go to a library since many websites on the Internet can provide all the information needed to become well-informed about ancient coins.
2. There is a wide variety of ancient coins available for collectors. A collector can choose from different eras and civilizations. He can choose from a Chinese civilization, ancient Rome, Greek, Persian, etc. It is preferable for a collector to focus on a specific group or era when collecting coins.
3. Once a selection has been made, a collector may then focus on the buying of these coins. To start select coins that are least expensive –set a price range such as $20. Once the collection grows, he may then want to start buying the more expensive coins.
4. A collector may also try searching for ancient coins at auction houses or online auctions where ancient coins are available. Always be aware of possible fraud no matter which venue you are using and take extra care in buying coins at online auctions.
5. It is also suggested that the collector make a list of the ancient coins that he would like to buy. He can list them according to his order of preference which will make his search for ancient coins an easier task. Included on his list should be the amount he is willing to spend on a certain type of coin. The list will be helpful whether online or at an auction house, enabling him to manage his budget easily.
6. It is important to have a separate holder for his ancient coin collection or his other collections. Separate holders will help the collector organize and preserve his coins. Ancient coins are generally more expensive than other collectible coins so it is necessary for a collector to know the proper care for them.
Ancient coins should not intimidate coin collectors. They are an exciting way to enjoy the hobby of collecting coins. Not only do they provide fun but they serve as a source of knowledge for many coin collectors.
Here are some tips that should be considered when buying ancient coins:
1. Conduct a research of ancient coins. It is important that a collector is aware of what coins are considered ancient. It does not require a collector to go to a library since many websites on the Internet can provide all the information needed to become well-informed about ancient coins.
2. There is a wide variety of ancient coins available for collectors. A collector can choose from different eras and civilizations. He can choose from a Chinese civilization, ancient Rome, Greek, Persian, etc. It is preferable for a collector to focus on a specific group or era when collecting coins.
3. Once a selection has been made, a collector may then focus on the buying of these coins. To start select coins that are least expensive –set a price range such as $20. Once the collection grows, he may then want to start buying the more expensive coins.
4. A collector may also try searching for ancient coins at auction houses or online auctions where ancient coins are available. Always be aware of possible fraud no matter which venue you are using and take extra care in buying coins at online auctions.
5. It is also suggested that the collector make a list of the ancient coins that he would like to buy. He can list them according to his order of preference which will make his search for ancient coins an easier task. Included on his list should be the amount he is willing to spend on a certain type of coin. The list will be helpful whether online or at an auction house, enabling him to manage his budget easily.
6. It is important to have a separate holder for his ancient coin collection or his other collections. Separate holders will help the collector organize and preserve his coins. Ancient coins are generally more expensive than other collectible coins so it is necessary for a collector to know the proper care for them.
Ancient coins should not intimidate coin collectors. They are an exciting way to enjoy the hobby of collecting coins. Not only do they provide fun but they serve as a source of knowledge for many coin collectors.
Getting Started with the Hobby of Numismatics and Collecting Coins
What is Numismatics?
Numismatics – the very name sounds mysterious and evocative. In simple terms, numismatics covers the science and study of coins, cash, and other legal tender, as well as medals, tokens, and medallions. The collection of ancient, commemorative, and rare coins is a fun and exacting hobby, and opens up a realm of history that most people never get to see. A numismatist holds an ancient coin that has passed through dozens or hundreds of hands throughout the millennia. In medieval times, the collection of ancient coins was already popular, but it was known as a hobby for kings. Today, building a fascinating collection of coins does not have to be expensive, and everyone can participate in this exciting pastime.
How do I Start Collecting Coins and Legal Tender?
When deciding which coins to collect, you should consider your interests, your budget, and your return on investment.
The first step when building a collection of coins is to decide what category of legal tender interests you most. Some people like to focus their collections on specific precious metals, such as gold, silver, copper, or bronze coins. Others like to concentrate on a specific time or region, like ancient Roman coins. Commemorative coins are a popular form of collection, as are rare minted coins like those which had an error in their stamping. If a certain set of coins doesn’t interest you, it won’t be any fun at all to become a collector.
Another interesting choice for numismatists is a token collection. Tokens were historically used in place of legal tender, if coins of the right value were not available, or were not convenient. In the modern day, tokens are still used at gaming arcades and some vending machines. Tokens may not be as valuable as true moolah, but they are an interesting look at local history, and can be fun to collect.
The price of a rare coin depends on supply and demand. If only a few coins were made but there are tons of collectors, it will be very expensive to start that kind of collection. Ironically, ancient coins are some of the most inexpensive and most interesting coins to collect. Because of the large number of coins in circulation between 650 BC, when stamping coins became popular, to the fall of the Roman Empire in 450 AD, tons of coins were created, and more are being uncovered every day. Common bronze coins that were being used in the time of Archimedes can be bought for about $10 apiece.
The third, and probably least important thing to consider when starting your collection is the likelihood that your coins will increase in value. Coin collecting for investment purposes can be a tricky endeavor. There is always the possibility that the coins you buy will include counterfeits, and the coin market can fluctuate even more wildly than other kinds of investment. For these reasons, it is probably wiser for you to focus on building a collection of coins, tokens, or legal tender that you enjoy than to build your collection with an eye on getting a large return on investment. However, high-grade ancient coins, gold coins, Morgan dollars and Walking Liberty half dollars are among the kinds of collections that are most likely to increase in value over time.
What is Numismatics?
Numismatics – the very name sounds mysterious and evocative. In simple terms, numismatics covers the science and study of coins, cash, and other legal tender, as well as medals, tokens, and medallions. The collection of ancient, commemorative, and rare coins is a fun and exacting hobby, and opens up a realm of history that most people never get to see. A numismatist holds an ancient coin that has passed through dozens or hundreds of hands throughout the millennia. In medieval times, the collection of ancient coins was already popular, but it was known as a hobby for kings. Today, building a fascinating collection of coins does not have to be expensive, and everyone can participate in this exciting pastime.
How do I Start Collecting Coins and Legal Tender?
When deciding which coins to collect, you should consider your interests, your budget, and your return on investment.
The first step when building a collection of coins is to decide what category of legal tender interests you most. Some people like to focus their collections on specific precious metals, such as gold, silver, copper, or bronze coins. Others like to concentrate on a specific time or region, like ancient Roman coins. Commemorative coins are a popular form of collection, as are rare minted coins like those which had an error in their stamping. If a certain set of coins doesn’t interest you, it won’t be any fun at all to become a collector.
Another interesting choice for numismatists is a token collection. Tokens were historically used in place of legal tender, if coins of the right value were not available, or were not convenient. In the modern day, tokens are still used at gaming arcades and some vending machines. Tokens may not be as valuable as true moolah, but they are an interesting look at local history, and can be fun to collect.
The price of a rare coin depends on supply and demand. If only a few coins were made but there are tons of collectors, it will be very expensive to start that kind of collection. Ironically, ancient coins are some of the most inexpensive and most interesting coins to collect. Because of the large number of coins in circulation between 650 BC, when stamping coins became popular, to the fall of the Roman Empire in 450 AD, tons of coins were created, and more are being uncovered every day. Common bronze coins that were being used in the time of Archimedes can be bought for about $10 apiece.
The third, and probably least important thing to consider when starting your collection is the likelihood that your coins will increase in value. Coin collecting for investment purposes can be a tricky endeavor. There is always the possibility that the coins you buy will include counterfeits, and the coin market can fluctuate even more wildly than other kinds of investment. For these reasons, it is probably wiser for you to focus on building a collection of coins, tokens, or legal tender that you enjoy than to build your collection with an eye on getting a large return on investment. However, high-grade ancient coins, gold coins, Morgan dollars and Walking Liberty half dollars are among the kinds of collections that are most likely to increase in value over time.
Models use the runway for cat walking and balls do too. Bowling balls are tossed energetically to knock down ten bowling pins. This by far has becomes one of the most sought after stress relieving games in the world. It's main objective is to get something really hard and heavy and throw it to knock down all of the pins.
There are more than 120 countries belonging to the International Bowling Federation, which claims that there are about 110 million people who now enjoy bowling. They call bowling centers 'alleys' and there are different sizes of alleys and gimmicks used to lure patrons to play the game. The largest bowling alley in the world contains more than a hundred bowling lanes. The average commercial bowling centers contain only about twenty five to thirty lanes. There are already 11,000 bowling centers in the whole world.
Bowling consisted of four parts: the lane, the approach, the pit, and the pin deck. The approach is where players take several strides to get the maximum adrenaline they need to release the ball and knock down the pins. There is a control line (foul line) which marks the place where players must let go of the ball. The player must not cross the line before or after the ball has been thrown.
In the America alone, there are more than 7,000 bowling associations in different states that support countrywide competitions for more than 4 million bowlers. Americans find the bowling attitude the same as their culture, however, they are unable to take credit for the discovery of the game. Since bowling history is colorful and full of twists and turns, researchers have discovered that the game is actually the very first sport that was discovered. Back in 5200 B.C. they found primitive balls and pins in Egyptian tombs. They also found Polynesian cultures that practiced the same sport and found lanes about 6 feet long. However, the development of the game, which started in the third century A.D., is credited to the religious leaders of Germany. A kegel - which represents the devil - was used as a pin. It needed to be hit as a sign of purity and freeing from sin and anyone who failed to hit the target was determined to be wicked. It was a practice that led the congregation to salvation and was even more standardized by Martin Luther. But when bowling was banned and used for illegal transactions, 10 pin bowling was invented to bypass the law.
The American Bowling Congress started in 1895. Now there are about 55 million players in the US and bowling has become the American game, played to unite and promote equality among fellow men.
There are more than 120 countries belonging to the International Bowling Federation, which claims that there are about 110 million people who now enjoy bowling. They call bowling centers 'alleys' and there are different sizes of alleys and gimmicks used to lure patrons to play the game. The largest bowling alley in the world contains more than a hundred bowling lanes. The average commercial bowling centers contain only about twenty five to thirty lanes. There are already 11,000 bowling centers in the whole world.
Bowling consisted of four parts: the lane, the approach, the pit, and the pin deck. The approach is where players take several strides to get the maximum adrenaline they need to release the ball and knock down the pins. There is a control line (foul line) which marks the place where players must let go of the ball. The player must not cross the line before or after the ball has been thrown.
In the America alone, there are more than 7,000 bowling associations in different states that support countrywide competitions for more than 4 million bowlers. Americans find the bowling attitude the same as their culture, however, they are unable to take credit for the discovery of the game. Since bowling history is colorful and full of twists and turns, researchers have discovered that the game is actually the very first sport that was discovered. Back in 5200 B.C. they found primitive balls and pins in Egyptian tombs. They also found Polynesian cultures that practiced the same sport and found lanes about 6 feet long. However, the development of the game, which started in the third century A.D., is credited to the religious leaders of Germany. A kegel - which represents the devil - was used as a pin. It needed to be hit as a sign of purity and freeing from sin and anyone who failed to hit the target was determined to be wicked. It was a practice that led the congregation to salvation and was even more standardized by Martin Luther. But when bowling was banned and used for illegal transactions, 10 pin bowling was invented to bypass the law.
The American Bowling Congress started in 1895. Now there are about 55 million players in the US and bowling has become the American game, played to unite and promote equality among fellow men.
Hockey is a sport that is enjoyed by many players and fans. Because it is most frequently played on ice (professionally anyway), it is often referred to as ice hockey, though there are some variations of the game using a roller rink rather than an ice rink making it possible for those who don’t have the benefit of ice rinks to engage in the game for fun. Hockey that isn’t played on the ice is generally referred to as roller hockey.
Ice hockey is played in a 200 foot by 85 foot rink. Lines are painted on the ice to mark various zones. The red line in the center of the rink marks the middle of the ice so the hockey players can tell how far to shoot. Blue lines are used to mark the three zones of the ice – the defending zone, the attacking zone and the neutral zone.
One each end of the rink, in the center of the ice is a set of goal posts which are set six feet apart, and a net. Between the goal posts there is a red line painted on the ice which is called a goal line. The object of the game of hockey is to make goals by knocking the hockey puck into the net using a hockey stick. A team achieves points when the puck crosses the goal line and goes into the net which oddly enough is also called the goal. The blue area in front of the goal that is painted in blue is called the crease. Only the goaltender is allowed in the crease, so if a player skates into the crease while attempting to make a goal, they may get an interference penalty.
Generally there are six players per team on the ice at one time. The three players that line up at the front of the team are called forwards and they mainly serve as the team’s offense. Depending on their placement they are referred to as the right wing, the center and the left wing. Behind the forwards are two defensemen, one on the right and one on the left. The sixth player is the goaltender, also called a goalie. The goalie generally stays in the crease to protect defensive zone, the defensemen also defend the goal as the forwards attempt to make goals for the team. Forwards and defensemen are allowed to provide both offense and defense for their team as they react to the activity of the game. At the end of three twenty-minute periods, the hockey team with the highest score wins. Tied games go into a five-minute period of overtime.
Ice hockey is played in a 200 foot by 85 foot rink. Lines are painted on the ice to mark various zones. The red line in the center of the rink marks the middle of the ice so the hockey players can tell how far to shoot. Blue lines are used to mark the three zones of the ice – the defending zone, the attacking zone and the neutral zone.
One each end of the rink, in the center of the ice is a set of goal posts which are set six feet apart, and a net. Between the goal posts there is a red line painted on the ice which is called a goal line. The object of the game of hockey is to make goals by knocking the hockey puck into the net using a hockey stick. A team achieves points when the puck crosses the goal line and goes into the net which oddly enough is also called the goal. The blue area in front of the goal that is painted in blue is called the crease. Only the goaltender is allowed in the crease, so if a player skates into the crease while attempting to make a goal, they may get an interference penalty.
Generally there are six players per team on the ice at one time. The three players that line up at the front of the team are called forwards and they mainly serve as the team’s offense. Depending on their placement they are referred to as the right wing, the center and the left wing. Behind the forwards are two defensemen, one on the right and one on the left. The sixth player is the goaltender, also called a goalie. The goalie generally stays in the crease to protect defensive zone, the defensemen also defend the goal as the forwards attempt to make goals for the team. Forwards and defensemen are allowed to provide both offense and defense for their team as they react to the activity of the game. At the end of three twenty-minute periods, the hockey team with the highest score wins. Tied games go into a five-minute period of overtime.
Okay, let’s get one thing straight right off the bat, we are talking about American football here, you know the sport with the funny shaped ball! Anyway, let’s not waste time on semantics I have stuff to do.
The way fantasy football works is like this, every participant or owner as we are called in the Fantasy Sports World, drafts or buys through an auction a team of players. For the purposes of this introduction we are going to assume the fantasy football league is NFL, but it could also be based on college players. The way the actual completion plays out depends upon the individual fantasy football league you happen to belong to. In some fantasy football leagues the winner is determined by total points at the end of a season, while others actually play against each other weekly with the team having the best record at the end of the fantasy season being declared winner of that fantasy football league.
The internet has been responsible for taking fantasy football from a hobby played out in sports bars and individual homes to a multi-billion dollar industry now according to the Fantasy Sports Trade Association. According to the FSTA, nearly twenty million players participate in fantasy sports and the industry has a growth rate of around ten percent. Fantasy Football is the most popular of all the fantasy sports available and continues to grow even faster with the explosion of websites and software to help with the game as well as the proliferation of fantasy football magazines available today.
Most fantasy football leagues will be made up of around ten or twelve individual teams which will have their own mock drafts before the season starts. Because you are drafting real players and their performance really matters it pays to stay in touch with what is going on with them during the off season and pre-season. For example if you draft a Ricky Williams and he decides to go off and smoke dope, too bad, you are screwed out of a running back! In some fantasy football leagues each owner must draft a new team every year, while in others you may be allowed to keep a handful of players which will not be entered in the draft. Some leagues have even gone as far as to create so-called dynasty leagues where an owner may maintain his team from the previous season and only draft incoming rookies. This is very similar to how a real football league works.
Players that are not drafted are designated as “free agents” and may be chosen during the season by trading players that an owner may currently have and making them free agents. The rules that govern this practice vary from league to league.
The way fantasy football works is like this, every participant or owner as we are called in the Fantasy Sports World, drafts or buys through an auction a team of players. For the purposes of this introduction we are going to assume the fantasy football league is NFL, but it could also be based on college players. The way the actual completion plays out depends upon the individual fantasy football league you happen to belong to. In some fantasy football leagues the winner is determined by total points at the end of a season, while others actually play against each other weekly with the team having the best record at the end of the fantasy season being declared winner of that fantasy football league.
The internet has been responsible for taking fantasy football from a hobby played out in sports bars and individual homes to a multi-billion dollar industry now according to the Fantasy Sports Trade Association. According to the FSTA, nearly twenty million players participate in fantasy sports and the industry has a growth rate of around ten percent. Fantasy Football is the most popular of all the fantasy sports available and continues to grow even faster with the explosion of websites and software to help with the game as well as the proliferation of fantasy football magazines available today.
Most fantasy football leagues will be made up of around ten or twelve individual teams which will have their own mock drafts before the season starts. Because you are drafting real players and their performance really matters it pays to stay in touch with what is going on with them during the off season and pre-season. For example if you draft a Ricky Williams and he decides to go off and smoke dope, too bad, you are screwed out of a running back! In some fantasy football leagues each owner must draft a new team every year, while in others you may be allowed to keep a handful of players which will not be entered in the draft. Some leagues have even gone as far as to create so-called dynasty leagues where an owner may maintain his team from the previous season and only draft incoming rookies. This is very similar to how a real football league works.
Players that are not drafted are designated as “free agents” and may be chosen during the season by trading players that an owner may currently have and making them free agents. The rules that govern this practice vary from league to league.
Clint Bowyer, who joined NASCAR racing less than four years back, has managed to become one of the most popular racing champions in the country. Born in 1979, Bowyer stated racing in the motocross at the young age of five. Over a period of eight years, till the age of thirteen, Bowyer managed to take home more than 200 titles, championships and victories.
Bowyer is one of the most versatile drivers on the tracks today, having participated in and won a number of modified vehicle as well as truck racing championships. We could say that he began his adult racing career with street stocks in 1996 at the Thunderhill speedway in Kansas from where he went to on to post several modified vehicle victories and top five finishes in a number of races. Bowyer picked up the Modified championships title in both 2000 and 2001, winning his first one in Mayetta and the latter in Kansas City.
His career with NASCAR began with his participation in the NASCAR Weekly Racing Series where he also won the Midwest championship in 2002. This was around the time that he finally began racing on asphalt. After another season of racing in the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division Midwest Series and showing great potential in the subsequent Nashville Superspeedway, he was finally picked up by Richard Childress to race for his club in the NASCAR championships.
Bowyer started racing for Childress in the NASCAR Busch Series of 2004, where he co drove a #21 Reese's Chevrolet with Kevin Harwick. This was the beginning of another great period in his driving career as he went on to notch a considerably successful season with a large number of top ten finishes and some even better than that . He also managed to finish 3rd in the 2006 Busch Series championships, while also managing to come first in one of the races. The year proved to be even more of a success for Bowyer when he managed to chalk up his first Craftsman Truck Series Championship, where he participated with his #46 Jack Daniel's Chevrolet Silverado.
Today, Clint Bowyer is one of the most popular emerging stars in NASCAR racing, and his huge fan following is ample testimony to this fact. In case you are also a Clint Bowyer fan then make sure that you show your loyalty by wearing Clint Bowyer sports clothing and accessories. You can easily lay your hands on Clint Bowyer jerseys and caps in your neighborhood sports collectible or clothing store or on the large number of online sports clothing outlets that stock NASCAR collectibles. So the next time you go to the races, make sure that you have your Clint Bowyer jersey and cap on in order to show your loyalty and support for your favorite NASCAR star.
Bowyer is one of the most versatile drivers on the tracks today, having participated in and won a number of modified vehicle as well as truck racing championships. We could say that he began his adult racing career with street stocks in 1996 at the Thunderhill speedway in Kansas from where he went to on to post several modified vehicle victories and top five finishes in a number of races. Bowyer picked up the Modified championships title in both 2000 and 2001, winning his first one in Mayetta and the latter in Kansas City.
His career with NASCAR began with his participation in the NASCAR Weekly Racing Series where he also won the Midwest championship in 2002. This was around the time that he finally began racing on asphalt. After another season of racing in the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division Midwest Series and showing great potential in the subsequent Nashville Superspeedway, he was finally picked up by Richard Childress to race for his club in the NASCAR championships.
Bowyer started racing for Childress in the NASCAR Busch Series of 2004, where he co drove a #21 Reese's Chevrolet with Kevin Harwick. This was the beginning of another great period in his driving career as he went on to notch a considerably successful season with a large number of top ten finishes and some even better than that . He also managed to finish 3rd in the 2006 Busch Series championships, while also managing to come first in one of the races. The year proved to be even more of a success for Bowyer when he managed to chalk up his first Craftsman Truck Series Championship, where he participated with his #46 Jack Daniel's Chevrolet Silverado.
Today, Clint Bowyer is one of the most popular emerging stars in NASCAR racing, and his huge fan following is ample testimony to this fact. In case you are also a Clint Bowyer fan then make sure that you show your loyalty by wearing Clint Bowyer sports clothing and accessories. You can easily lay your hands on Clint Bowyer jerseys and caps in your neighborhood sports collectible or clothing store or on the large number of online sports clothing outlets that stock NASCAR collectibles. So the next time you go to the races, make sure that you have your Clint Bowyer jersey and cap on in order to show your loyalty and support for your favorite NASCAR star.
Do you think Michael Owen is past his best? Do you think he should still command a regular starting place in the England team? Has Michael Owens injuries affected him too much? Has Michael lost some of his passion to the play at the top level of the game? In this article I give my own opinion about these questions, I hope you enjoy the read.
Michael Owen burst onto the international football stage with what can only be described as a wonder goal against Argentina in the World Cup. At this stage he had pace to burn and was lethal in front of goal. The future was very exciting for his club, country and of course for himself.
Owen played for Liverpool for many years and scored lots and lots and goals. A couple of years ago he moved clubs to Real Madrid. At Madrid he did not in my opinion seem to get much a chance, however his goals to games ratio was still very impressive. During this period Michael started to have a few problems with niggly injuries. He has found it quite difficult to have a sustained period free from injury. Last season he moved clubs again with a big money move to Newcastle United. This saw the prospect of him teaming up again with Alan Shearer. Owen however has played only a handful of games for his new club due to his fitness levels.
It seems that Owen is now on his way back, he recently started Englands latest friendly match against Hungary and looked quite hungry. I feel that Michael is way past his best, I think that due to the fact that he is not getting any younger and all of the injuries he has sustained, that he has without doubt lost some of his electric pace. He is however and should remain for a number of years to come a potent and top striker but whether he is still world class remains to be seen.
Michael Owen has never in my opinion let England down. He always seems to pop up with a goal and has certainly been one the nations hero's over the last eight years. I would prefer to see Michael come off the bench for say the last thirty-five minutes of matches instead of starting the games. I think England should have lanky Peter Crouch with another pacy striker such as Theo Walcott to really rough up and bruise the opposition. Michael could then come on when they are starting to become a bit weary.
I do not think Michael Owen has lost any of his passion or desire to play for club or country. In fact I think the opposite is true. He will be itching to get back to somewhere near his best and will be very determined to help his country to win the World Cup.
Michael Owen burst onto the international football stage with what can only be described as a wonder goal against Argentina in the World Cup. At this stage he had pace to burn and was lethal in front of goal. The future was very exciting for his club, country and of course for himself.
Owen played for Liverpool for many years and scored lots and lots and goals. A couple of years ago he moved clubs to Real Madrid. At Madrid he did not in my opinion seem to get much a chance, however his goals to games ratio was still very impressive. During this period Michael started to have a few problems with niggly injuries. He has found it quite difficult to have a sustained period free from injury. Last season he moved clubs again with a big money move to Newcastle United. This saw the prospect of him teaming up again with Alan Shearer. Owen however has played only a handful of games for his new club due to his fitness levels.
It seems that Owen is now on his way back, he recently started Englands latest friendly match against Hungary and looked quite hungry. I feel that Michael is way past his best, I think that due to the fact that he is not getting any younger and all of the injuries he has sustained, that he has without doubt lost some of his electric pace. He is however and should remain for a number of years to come a potent and top striker but whether he is still world class remains to be seen.
Michael Owen has never in my opinion let England down. He always seems to pop up with a goal and has certainly been one the nations hero's over the last eight years. I would prefer to see Michael come off the bench for say the last thirty-five minutes of matches instead of starting the games. I think England should have lanky Peter Crouch with another pacy striker such as Theo Walcott to really rough up and bruise the opposition. Michael could then come on when they are starting to become a bit weary.
I do not think Michael Owen has lost any of his passion or desire to play for club or country. In fact I think the opposite is true. He will be itching to get back to somewhere near his best and will be very determined to help his country to win the World Cup.
More Americans are learning why riding off into the sunset equals living "happily ever after."
With recent movies such as "Seabiscuit" and "Hidalgo" topping the charts, it seems horses are more popular than ever - but it's not just Hollywood.
The trend is sweeping the nation as more people discover the wonderful world of horses. Participation in horse events is at an all-time high. Nearly 2 million Americans own horses, and millions more would like to.
In fact, a recent survey found three out of five adults would be happy if they were given a horse as a gift. And, a majority is interested in horseback riding while on vacation, attending a rodeo and going to a horse race.
With interest in horses on the rise, it's no surprise that more Americans are finally getting involved. They are taking vacations at dude ranches, going on relaxing trail rides to de-stress after work, skipping gym workouts to fulfill fitness routines on horseback, and even using horses to teach kids responsibility and confidence.
And more importantly, they are finding affordable options.
"Getting involved is easier and less expensive than you might think," said Bill Brewer, executive vice president of the American Quarter Horse Association. "With our nationwide network of professional horsemen, AQHA can connect people - regardless of interest level, age or income - with horses. It's what we do best."
Brewer mentioned several cost-effective options for enjoying horses without the cost of ownership, such as leasing, time-sharing, vacationing at a ranch or taking lessons.
"With these affordable options, there has never been a better time to get started," he said.
AQHA is making it easier than ever to get involved by offering a gift set for $30. The set includes a Breyer model horse, a book about American Quarter Horses and a certificate good for one free riding lesson from a local professional trainer in your area.
"This gift is an easy way to make a dream for a horse come true," Brewer said. "A lesson on a dependable breed like the American Quarter Horse, which we call the 'golden retriever of the horse world,' is a fun and safe way to be introduced to the joy of a life with horses."
With recent movies such as "Seabiscuit" and "Hidalgo" topping the charts, it seems horses are more popular than ever - but it's not just Hollywood.
The trend is sweeping the nation as more people discover the wonderful world of horses. Participation in horse events is at an all-time high. Nearly 2 million Americans own horses, and millions more would like to.
In fact, a recent survey found three out of five adults would be happy if they were given a horse as a gift. And, a majority is interested in horseback riding while on vacation, attending a rodeo and going to a horse race.
With interest in horses on the rise, it's no surprise that more Americans are finally getting involved. They are taking vacations at dude ranches, going on relaxing trail rides to de-stress after work, skipping gym workouts to fulfill fitness routines on horseback, and even using horses to teach kids responsibility and confidence.
And more importantly, they are finding affordable options.
"Getting involved is easier and less expensive than you might think," said Bill Brewer, executive vice president of the American Quarter Horse Association. "With our nationwide network of professional horsemen, AQHA can connect people - regardless of interest level, age or income - with horses. It's what we do best."
Brewer mentioned several cost-effective options for enjoying horses without the cost of ownership, such as leasing, time-sharing, vacationing at a ranch or taking lessons.
"With these affordable options, there has never been a better time to get started," he said.
AQHA is making it easier than ever to get involved by offering a gift set for $30. The set includes a Breyer model horse, a book about American Quarter Horses and a certificate good for one free riding lesson from a local professional trainer in your area.
"This gift is an easy way to make a dream for a horse come true," Brewer said. "A lesson on a dependable breed like the American Quarter Horse, which we call the 'golden retriever of the horse world,' is a fun and safe way to be introduced to the joy of a life with horses."
If you've been thinking whether to get a Alumacraft, chances are, you're someone who goes for quality, durability and performance. Why?
Because that's what Alumacraft boats are renowned for amongst boating lovers! Besides that, there are also loads of features in Alumacraft Boats that makes them a good choice. Here's a listing :
(1) Less Feedback Steering & Hence Drier, Smoother & Quieter Riding Experience
Due to the specific technology used, Alumacraft boats reduces the transmission of prop troque through the driver. It's much easier and safer to ride at a higher speed as the wheel won't spin out of your hands that easily and cause a loss of control!
Partly because of this reduced feedback and vibration, a Alumacraft tend to cruise over the surface of the water without splashing, resulting in a much drier, smoother and quieter travelling experience.
(2) Best Quality Hardware & Heavier, Top Grade Marine Gauge Aluminum
Built with chromed metal hardware renowned for being durable and strong, Alumacraft boats gives a better grip even if you're wearing gloves! The heavier, top grade marine guage aluminum material used further enhances it's durability.
Hence with proper care, it's not surprising at all to find some Alumacraft boats to be in perfect working condition even after many years of usage.
(3) Ease of Customization
Alumacraft boats is manufactured by one of the largest independently owned boat maker. That makes it easier to rig the boat to your preference. Definitely a dream come true for boating lovers!
(4) Larger Aircraft Grade Rivets & Tighter Fit between Welds and Rivets
With large rivets comes greater strength and because of this, less of them are required as compared to smaller rivets. Lesser holes are needed to be drilled into Alumacraft boats thereby reducing the tendency of losing rivets.
This simple logic, coupled by the tighter fit in between welds and rivets improves compactness of the boat's body as a whole and reduce the possibility of leakage. All in all, this helps to further explain why maintenance is a such a breeze for Alumacraft boats.
(5) More & Better Ribs
The use of more and better ribs is also the main reason why Alumacraft boats can take more pounding than you thought. Another great explanation on why they're so durable.
(6) Great Paintwork.
Alumacraft boats are painted with the best quality paint used by major auto makers. Since both base colour / clear coat colour are similar, it's easier and less costly to do touch ups than repainting the whole boat. What does that mean? Once again, lesser cost and lower maintenance effort!
(7) One Single Piece of Hull
At first glance, it didn't seem to mean a lot. But the fact that it does meant there's a lesser tendency of losing rivets or pieces falling apart, isn't it? A rare phenomenon that you see with other brands of boats.
Now, with the so many great features listed above, there's really no reason for you not to consider an Alumacraft, isn't it? Though they come in various sizes, shapes and styles for a wide spectrum of uses and budgets, with careful selection, you'll still be able to find the right one that suit your needs.
Without burning a hole in your pocket, of course!
Because that's what Alumacraft boats are renowned for amongst boating lovers! Besides that, there are also loads of features in Alumacraft Boats that makes them a good choice. Here's a listing :
(1) Less Feedback Steering & Hence Drier, Smoother & Quieter Riding Experience
Due to the specific technology used, Alumacraft boats reduces the transmission of prop troque through the driver. It's much easier and safer to ride at a higher speed as the wheel won't spin out of your hands that easily and cause a loss of control!
Partly because of this reduced feedback and vibration, a Alumacraft tend to cruise over the surface of the water without splashing, resulting in a much drier, smoother and quieter travelling experience.
(2) Best Quality Hardware & Heavier, Top Grade Marine Gauge Aluminum
Built with chromed metal hardware renowned for being durable and strong, Alumacraft boats gives a better grip even if you're wearing gloves! The heavier, top grade marine guage aluminum material used further enhances it's durability.
Hence with proper care, it's not surprising at all to find some Alumacraft boats to be in perfect working condition even after many years of usage.
(3) Ease of Customization
Alumacraft boats is manufactured by one of the largest independently owned boat maker. That makes it easier to rig the boat to your preference. Definitely a dream come true for boating lovers!
(4) Larger Aircraft Grade Rivets & Tighter Fit between Welds and Rivets
With large rivets comes greater strength and because of this, less of them are required as compared to smaller rivets. Lesser holes are needed to be drilled into Alumacraft boats thereby reducing the tendency of losing rivets.
This simple logic, coupled by the tighter fit in between welds and rivets improves compactness of the boat's body as a whole and reduce the possibility of leakage. All in all, this helps to further explain why maintenance is a such a breeze for Alumacraft boats.
(5) More & Better Ribs
The use of more and better ribs is also the main reason why Alumacraft boats can take more pounding than you thought. Another great explanation on why they're so durable.
(6) Great Paintwork.
Alumacraft boats are painted with the best quality paint used by major auto makers. Since both base colour / clear coat colour are similar, it's easier and less costly to do touch ups than repainting the whole boat. What does that mean? Once again, lesser cost and lower maintenance effort!
(7) One Single Piece of Hull
At first glance, it didn't seem to mean a lot. But the fact that it does meant there's a lesser tendency of losing rivets or pieces falling apart, isn't it? A rare phenomenon that you see with other brands of boats.
Now, with the so many great features listed above, there's really no reason for you not to consider an Alumacraft, isn't it? Though they come in various sizes, shapes and styles for a wide spectrum of uses and budgets, with careful selection, you'll still be able to find the right one that suit your needs.
Without burning a hole in your pocket, of course!
Airsoft Guns: An Introduction
Airsoft guns are considered replicas of real firearms but not all replicas are Airsoft guns. There are some replicas that don't have a firing mechanism while others, such as the Real Action Markers, may have a different mechanism and shoot non-Airsoft types of projectiles. This fact alone makes airsoft guns a great collector's item. Airsoft guns are classified according to their operating principle which can be either: spring, electric, or gas-powered.
Airsoft is a combat game similar to paintball in which participants eliminate opponents by hitting them with 6 mm (or occasionally 8 mm) plastic BBs launched from airsoft guns. An airsoft player is shooting from behind cover wearing goggles that fully seal the area around the eyes and a balaclava to protect the face. The sport of Airsoft started in Japan during the early 1980s. Airsoft has been popular in Asia for a long time, and there is now a growing interest in airsoft weapons and events in North America and Europe. Airsoft started appearing in North America and Europe during the middle of the 1990's. Airsoft is a very popular sport these days.
Airsoft game scenarios can vary widely according to mission type, number of teams, number of players per team, the objective of the game, victory conditions, and game durations. Airsoft games can be run by the players themselves using agreed upon rules. Airsoft guns are most commonly powered by one of three sources: gas, air, or mechanical boxes that use motors to pull back and release a spring piston. Airsoft guns are NOT toys and are not intended or designed for children. Airsoft guns are to be purchased and used by adults 18 years of age or older.
Airsoft guns are used all over the world for target shooting, firearms training instructors, class III-weapons enthusiasts, motion-picture studios, and most commonly, for tactical and military simulation war games. Airsoft guns are ideal for tactical training. Airsoft guns are remarkably accurate for smooth-bore guns.
Airsoft guns are considered replicas of real firearms but not all replicas are Airsoft guns. There are some replicas that don't have a firing mechanism while others, such as the Real Action Markers, may have a different mechanism and shoot non-Airsoft types of projectiles. This fact alone makes airsoft guns a great collector's item. Airsoft guns are classified according to their operating principle which can be either: spring, electric, or gas-powered.
Airsoft is a combat game similar to paintball in which participants eliminate opponents by hitting them with 6 mm (or occasionally 8 mm) plastic BBs launched from airsoft guns. An airsoft player is shooting from behind cover wearing goggles that fully seal the area around the eyes and a balaclava to protect the face. The sport of Airsoft started in Japan during the early 1980s. Airsoft has been popular in Asia for a long time, and there is now a growing interest in airsoft weapons and events in North America and Europe. Airsoft started appearing in North America and Europe during the middle of the 1990's. Airsoft is a very popular sport these days.
Airsoft game scenarios can vary widely according to mission type, number of teams, number of players per team, the objective of the game, victory conditions, and game durations. Airsoft games can be run by the players themselves using agreed upon rules. Airsoft guns are most commonly powered by one of three sources: gas, air, or mechanical boxes that use motors to pull back and release a spring piston. Airsoft guns are NOT toys and are not intended or designed for children. Airsoft guns are to be purchased and used by adults 18 years of age or older.
Airsoft guns are used all over the world for target shooting, firearms training instructors, class III-weapons enthusiasts, motion-picture studios, and most commonly, for tactical and military simulation war games. Airsoft guns are ideal for tactical training. Airsoft guns are remarkably accurate for smooth-bore guns.
Airsoft guns may soon be going the way of real guns around the world, even in the US. Built to resemble actual weapons, Airsoft guns instead shoot pellets and are used in several games much like paintball. These games range from freeform death match style in which all the players are basically out for themselves and anything goes, to team play that resembles war games. Although pellets are used instead of bullets or paintballs, getting hit can still result in a nasty sting and a lingering wound.
Complaints against Airsoft guns have come from a number of quarters. For instance, the University of Hawaii at Manoa has banned Airsoft guns. Despite that ban—or, indeed, perhaps because of it—the campus was the site of a series of assaults on students by someone using an Airsoft pellet gun. Even so, much of the uproar has less to do with the damage done by the pellets and more with the construction of the guns themselves.
Airsoft guns can take the form of handguns or larger rifles and they can look remarkably realistic. It is this realism that has raised questions of safety, not the actual damage done by the pellets. Recently in Florida, a middle school student was shot by police after he brandished a weapon at them. The weapon turned out to be a pellet gun, though it was never established whether or not it was actually an Airsoft gun. From a distance, Airsoft guns definitely resemble the real thing and this has certainly led to a move to ban them.
In light of the calls to ban what are essentially toys, it’s quite ironic that the rise of Airsoft popularity began in Asian countries where access to real firearms is difficult. The realistic look of the guns contributed to the popularity of the games in which they used, lending them a certain reality that older style pellet guns simply didn’t have. Eventually, the craze pushed westward and took up residence in Europe and America. With the lax gun control laws in America, these Airsoft guns are much more dangerous. While it’s unlikely that a large group of young people in Japan or England would be walking around openly carrying real guns, the police in America don’t have the luxury of second guessing. If a policeman sees a gun that looks real he simply has to assume that it is real, especially when pointed at him.
The answer, clearly, doesn’t have to be outright banning of Airsoft guns. Since even accidental victims of pellet shots often admit that getting shot by one of them isn’t terribly painful, it seems rather ridiculous to ban these guns when the banning of real handguns are impossible. Rather, why not just make them less realistic? That doesn’t necessarily entail stripping the Airsoft guns of all realism, but would it hurt to redesign them subtly so that it is obvious they aren’t actual handguns?
The cost of realism in a game hardly seems worth the price of a life.
Complaints against Airsoft guns have come from a number of quarters. For instance, the University of Hawaii at Manoa has banned Airsoft guns. Despite that ban—or, indeed, perhaps because of it—the campus was the site of a series of assaults on students by someone using an Airsoft pellet gun. Even so, much of the uproar has less to do with the damage done by the pellets and more with the construction of the guns themselves.
Airsoft guns can take the form of handguns or larger rifles and they can look remarkably realistic. It is this realism that has raised questions of safety, not the actual damage done by the pellets. Recently in Florida, a middle school student was shot by police after he brandished a weapon at them. The weapon turned out to be a pellet gun, though it was never established whether or not it was actually an Airsoft gun. From a distance, Airsoft guns definitely resemble the real thing and this has certainly led to a move to ban them.
In light of the calls to ban what are essentially toys, it’s quite ironic that the rise of Airsoft popularity began in Asian countries where access to real firearms is difficult. The realistic look of the guns contributed to the popularity of the games in which they used, lending them a certain reality that older style pellet guns simply didn’t have. Eventually, the craze pushed westward and took up residence in Europe and America. With the lax gun control laws in America, these Airsoft guns are much more dangerous. While it’s unlikely that a large group of young people in Japan or England would be walking around openly carrying real guns, the police in America don’t have the luxury of second guessing. If a policeman sees a gun that looks real he simply has to assume that it is real, especially when pointed at him.
The answer, clearly, doesn’t have to be outright banning of Airsoft guns. Since even accidental victims of pellet shots often admit that getting shot by one of them isn’t terribly painful, it seems rather ridiculous to ban these guns when the banning of real handguns are impossible. Rather, why not just make them less realistic? That doesn’t necessarily entail stripping the Airsoft guns of all realism, but would it hurt to redesign them subtly so that it is obvious they aren’t actual handguns?
The cost of realism in a game hardly seems worth the price of a life.
You just can’t imagine the magnitude of ‘adventure, entertainment, excitement, and fun’ that airshows are gonna give you. Airshows certainly are action packed shows of flying machines. Surely, you can have plenty of air amusement, aeronautic enjoyment, and flying fun at airshows.
Airshows are air-expos where aviators exhibit their aircraft flying skills and capabilities. These shows really offer great exhibition of aeronautic proficiencies and a wide variety of aircraft and helicopters that are often aviated in these shows. You can really watch out static airplanes, parked on the ground, or out of their hangars at static airshows, but you can enjoy a lot of real flying action at airshows.
Airplanes look catching when they are laid out orderly at the venues of airshows. Most of the airshows allow you to wander around the static airplanes, before the start of the shows. Often, the non-military airshows allow you to watch or photograph the static aircraft. However, the organizers of military airshows generally ask you to stay away and to leave the venue once the flying action is over. Most of the non-military airshows generally allow you to linger and have fun at the airshow venues.
Airshows may feature air races, aerobatic demos, jet demos, military jet demos, warbird demos, helicopter demos, skydiving/paragliding demos, skywriting, wingwalking demos, glider demos, airdrop demos, etc. These shows may also dish out replicas of some of the earliest aircraft, new-technology demonstrator prototypes, battlefield simulations, cargo airplanes, fire-fighting aircraft, and remote-controlled aircraft.
Generally, airplanes require fine weather conditions for flying, but weather really can’t stop you from having fun at airshows. Rarely, adverse weather is responsible for the cancellation of airshows. Though, it may sometimes delay the start of airshows. Once you are at one of such shows, there is no stopping to your fun. Often, static airshows are arranged, if weather becomes wicked. In static airshows, static flying machines are exhibited and you are free to view them closely and chat with their pilots.
Airshows generally begin in the late mornings or early afternoons, and the flying action usually goes on until late afternoon or early evening, or even into the night. The aircraft that fly in evening or night airshows are especially lit, and have bright afterburners. They give spectacularly dazzling view when they release flares or fireworks or other pyrotechnics. The evening airshows are generally organized on the Fridays.
So, if you have fascination for flying machines, you mustn’t miss any of airshows. Surely, there is loads of flying fun, adventure, excitement waiting for you at airshows. You just need to grab your airshow ticket, and you can realize your flying fantasies. You can buy airshow tickets online.
Airshows are air-expos where aviators exhibit their aircraft flying skills and capabilities. These shows really offer great exhibition of aeronautic proficiencies and a wide variety of aircraft and helicopters that are often aviated in these shows. You can really watch out static airplanes, parked on the ground, or out of their hangars at static airshows, but you can enjoy a lot of real flying action at airshows.
Airplanes look catching when they are laid out orderly at the venues of airshows. Most of the airshows allow you to wander around the static airplanes, before the start of the shows. Often, the non-military airshows allow you to watch or photograph the static aircraft. However, the organizers of military airshows generally ask you to stay away and to leave the venue once the flying action is over. Most of the non-military airshows generally allow you to linger and have fun at the airshow venues.
Airshows may feature air races, aerobatic demos, jet demos, military jet demos, warbird demos, helicopter demos, skydiving/paragliding demos, skywriting, wingwalking demos, glider demos, airdrop demos, etc. These shows may also dish out replicas of some of the earliest aircraft, new-technology demonstrator prototypes, battlefield simulations, cargo airplanes, fire-fighting aircraft, and remote-controlled aircraft.
Generally, airplanes require fine weather conditions for flying, but weather really can’t stop you from having fun at airshows. Rarely, adverse weather is responsible for the cancellation of airshows. Though, it may sometimes delay the start of airshows. Once you are at one of such shows, there is no stopping to your fun. Often, static airshows are arranged, if weather becomes wicked. In static airshows, static flying machines are exhibited and you are free to view them closely and chat with their pilots.
Airshows generally begin in the late mornings or early afternoons, and the flying action usually goes on until late afternoon or early evening, or even into the night. The aircraft that fly in evening or night airshows are especially lit, and have bright afterburners. They give spectacularly dazzling view when they release flares or fireworks or other pyrotechnics. The evening airshows are generally organized on the Fridays.
So, if you have fascination for flying machines, you mustn’t miss any of airshows. Surely, there is loads of flying fun, adventure, excitement waiting for you at airshows. You just need to grab your airshow ticket, and you can realize your flying fantasies. You can buy airshow tickets online.
* If your travel plans fall during a busy period, call for reservations early. Flights for holidays may sell out weeks - sometimes months - ahead of time. Don't buy a standby fare or an 'open return' ticket if you need to fly during a high-demand period. You could be stranded for a week or more before a seat becomes available.
* Ask the reservations agent to give you the on-time performance code for any flights that you are considering. This is a one-digit code in the reservations computer that shows how often that flight arrived on time (within 15 minutes) during the most recent reported month. For example, an "8" means that flight arrived within 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival time between 80% and 89.9% of the time. If you are deciding between two flights with similar schedules and fares, you may want to choose the one with the better on-time record. (Only the largest U.S. airlines are required to maintain these codes.)
* When you make a reservation, be sure the agent records the information accurately. Before you hang up or leave the ticket office, review all of the essential information with the agent - the spelling of your name, the flight numbers and travel dates, and the cities you are traveling between. If there is more than one airport at either city, be sure you check which one you'll be using. It's also important to give the airline your home and work telephone numbers so they can let you know if there is any change in their schedule.
* Your ticket will show the flight number, departure time, date, and status of your reservation for each flight of your itinerary. The "status" box is important. "OK" means you're confirmed. Anything else means that the reservation is not yet certain (e.g., waitlisted).
* A "direct" (or "through") flight can have one or more stops. Sometimes flights with only one flight number can even involve a change of planes. Ask about your exact routing.
* If you are flying to a small city and your flight number has four digits, you may be booked on a commuter airline that has an agreement with the major carrier in whose name the flight is held out. If you are unsure, ask the reservation agent about the airline and the aircraft type; these flights are identified in the computer.
* When a reservation agent asks you to buy your tickets by a specific time or date, this is a deadline. And if you don't make the deadline, the airline may cancel your reservation without telling you.
* Try to have your tickets in hand before you go to the airport. This speeds your check-in and helps you avoid some of the tension you might otherwise feel if you had to wait in a slow-moving ticketing line and worry about missing your flight. Using an e-ticket speeds up the process also.
* If your reservations are booked far enough ahead of time, the airline may offer to mail your tickets to you. However, if you don't receive the tickets and the airline's records show that they mailed them, you may have to go through cumbersome lost-ticket procedures (see the end of this chapter). It is safer to check the telephone directory for a conveniently located travel agency or airline ticket office and buy your tickets there.
* As soon as you receive your ticket check to make sure all the information on it is correct, especially the airports (if any of the cities have more than one) and the flight dates. Have any necessary corrections made immediately.
* Bring a photo I.D. when you fly, and have your airline ticket issued using your name as it appears on that I.D. Many airlines are requesting such identification at check-in in order to reduce the re- selling of discount tickets. (Airlines don't permit tickets to be sold or given to other persons.) On international flights, make sure your name is the same on your ticket and your passport. If your name has recently changed and the name on your ticket and your I.D. are different, bring documentation of the change (e.g., a marriage certificate or court order).
* It's a good idea to reconfirm your reservations before you start your trip; flight schedules sometimes change. On international trips, most airlines require that you reconfirm your onward or return reservations at least 72 hours before each flight. If you don't, your reservations may be canceled.
* Check your ticket as you board each flight to ensure that only the correct coupon has been removed by the airline agent.
* Ask the reservations agent to give you the on-time performance code for any flights that you are considering. This is a one-digit code in the reservations computer that shows how often that flight arrived on time (within 15 minutes) during the most recent reported month. For example, an "8" means that flight arrived within 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival time between 80% and 89.9% of the time. If you are deciding between two flights with similar schedules and fares, you may want to choose the one with the better on-time record. (Only the largest U.S. airlines are required to maintain these codes.)
* When you make a reservation, be sure the agent records the information accurately. Before you hang up or leave the ticket office, review all of the essential information with the agent - the spelling of your name, the flight numbers and travel dates, and the cities you are traveling between. If there is more than one airport at either city, be sure you check which one you'll be using. It's also important to give the airline your home and work telephone numbers so they can let you know if there is any change in their schedule.
* Your ticket will show the flight number, departure time, date, and status of your reservation for each flight of your itinerary. The "status" box is important. "OK" means you're confirmed. Anything else means that the reservation is not yet certain (e.g., waitlisted).
* A "direct" (or "through") flight can have one or more stops. Sometimes flights with only one flight number can even involve a change of planes. Ask about your exact routing.
* If you are flying to a small city and your flight number has four digits, you may be booked on a commuter airline that has an agreement with the major carrier in whose name the flight is held out. If you are unsure, ask the reservation agent about the airline and the aircraft type; these flights are identified in the computer.
* When a reservation agent asks you to buy your tickets by a specific time or date, this is a deadline. And if you don't make the deadline, the airline may cancel your reservation without telling you.
* Try to have your tickets in hand before you go to the airport. This speeds your check-in and helps you avoid some of the tension you might otherwise feel if you had to wait in a slow-moving ticketing line and worry about missing your flight. Using an e-ticket speeds up the process also.
* If your reservations are booked far enough ahead of time, the airline may offer to mail your tickets to you. However, if you don't receive the tickets and the airline's records show that they mailed them, you may have to go through cumbersome lost-ticket procedures (see the end of this chapter). It is safer to check the telephone directory for a conveniently located travel agency or airline ticket office and buy your tickets there.
* As soon as you receive your ticket check to make sure all the information on it is correct, especially the airports (if any of the cities have more than one) and the flight dates. Have any necessary corrections made immediately.
* Bring a photo I.D. when you fly, and have your airline ticket issued using your name as it appears on that I.D. Many airlines are requesting such identification at check-in in order to reduce the re- selling of discount tickets. (Airlines don't permit tickets to be sold or given to other persons.) On international flights, make sure your name is the same on your ticket and your passport. If your name has recently changed and the name on your ticket and your I.D. are different, bring documentation of the change (e.g., a marriage certificate or court order).
* It's a good idea to reconfirm your reservations before you start your trip; flight schedules sometimes change. On international trips, most airlines require that you reconfirm your onward or return reservations at least 72 hours before each flight. If you don't, your reservations may be canceled.
* Check your ticket as you board each flight to ensure that only the correct coupon has been removed by the airline agent.
Bowling can be considered one of the all time favorite sports in the world. Its popularity throughout the history of its evolution has a consistent trend that people seem to adapt and accept. In 1976, about 25 percent of the total population of the United States played the game. By the start of the millennium, the percentage has gone down by about 10 percent because of the changes of interest of many people to different activities.
There was a resurgence when bowling alleys realized that they had to modernize their facilities and equipment to keep with the trend of modern technology. There was a total transformation within every facility and with all equipment. Computer generated scoring was one of the futuristic adaptations of the game. There were also improvements in the bowling lanes and pin machines to provide faster setting of the pins in the target area.
Many venues have realized that there was an increase in the number of casual bowlers when they cut the schedules of leagues and shortened their events by a few weeks. More people have time to go bowling because the availability of the lanes was improved. By the start of the new millennium, many people were working less than eight hours a day and this led to the adaptation by bowling alleys to a schedule suitable for employees that wished to enjoy bowling after work.
Many people have considered the change of the concept of bowling from a sport to a social activity. Some people see bowling as a recreational or social activity while others see it as a competitive opportunity.
People find many advantages when bowling. Playing the sport on a regular basis will enable a person to develop a fitness activity by learning how to balance and coordinate body movements. The bowling executions a person uses provides exercise through walking and swinging of the arms. It not only provides good body exercise for the arms and back, but the joints, fingers, hips, and legs as well. The muscles limber up when a person bowls on a regular basis, keeping the body in good condition.
There was a resurgence when bowling alleys realized that they had to modernize their facilities and equipment to keep with the trend of modern technology. There was a total transformation within every facility and with all equipment. Computer generated scoring was one of the futuristic adaptations of the game. There were also improvements in the bowling lanes and pin machines to provide faster setting of the pins in the target area.
Many venues have realized that there was an increase in the number of casual bowlers when they cut the schedules of leagues and shortened their events by a few weeks. More people have time to go bowling because the availability of the lanes was improved. By the start of the new millennium, many people were working less than eight hours a day and this led to the adaptation by bowling alleys to a schedule suitable for employees that wished to enjoy bowling after work.
Many people have considered the change of the concept of bowling from a sport to a social activity. Some people see bowling as a recreational or social activity while others see it as a competitive opportunity.
People find many advantages when bowling. Playing the sport on a regular basis will enable a person to develop a fitness activity by learning how to balance and coordinate body movements. The bowling executions a person uses provides exercise through walking and swinging of the arms. It not only provides good body exercise for the arms and back, but the joints, fingers, hips, and legs as well. The muscles limber up when a person bowls on a regular basis, keeping the body in good condition.
While most people enjoy casino gambling, sports betting, lottery and bingo playing for the fun and excitement it provides, others may experience gambling as an addictive and distractive habit. Statistics show that while 85 percent of the adult population in the US enjoys some type of gambling every year, between 2 and 3 percent of will develop a gambling problem and 1 percent of them are diagnosed as pathological gamblers.
Where can you draw the line between harmless gambling to problem gambling? How can you tell if you or your friend are compulsive gamblers? Here you can find answers to these questions and other questions regarding problem gambling and gambling addiction.
What is the Meaning of Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling or compulsive gambling is defined as an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the destructive effect of gambling on the gamblers life and despite feelings of guilt and remorse. Problem gambling tends to have a negative effect on the gamblers financial state, relationships and daily life. Severe cases of problem gambling can be defined as pathological gambling.
Am I a Compulsive Gambler?
1) Do you gamble until your last penny runs out?
2) Do you gamble to win back your former losses or debts?
3) Did you ever had to borrow money to continue gamble?
4) Did your gambling habit ever made you lie to your friends or family?
5) Did you ever skip work or other obligation to gamble?
6) Do you tend to gamble to forget about your personal problems or to celebrate happy occasions?
7) Does gambling have a negative affect on your daily life or relationships?
If you have answered yes on at least one of the questions listed above, then you have a problem.
Can Anyone Become a Compulsive Gambler?
Theoretically, yes. Any gambler can develop gambling problem regardless to the type of gambling he is occupied with, the amount of money and time he is spending on gambling. Researches show that slot machines that can be found in bars and convenient stores are the most addictive type of gambling activity, while lottery draws and bingo games are located on the other end of the scale. Gambling addiction is an emotional problem; its symptoms, causes and treatments are similar to any other form of addiction.
How Can I treat Gambling Addiction?
1) Group Therapy:
Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12 step self help program similar to the one offered to alcohol addicts in Alcoholics Anonymous. Group therapy also offers gambling addicts advice and support from professional counselors and other gambling addicts in different phases of their recovery process. Gambler Anonymous centers are available in more than 1,200 locations statewide.
2) Individual Therapy:
Cognitive or behavior therapy can help gambling addicts to identify their unaware thinking and acting patterns, which led them to gamble compulsively, and to replace them with controllable and healthier ways of thinking.
3) Psychiatric Medication:
It has recently been proven that antidepressant medications from the family of SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be affective in treatment of gambling addicts.
Where can you draw the line between harmless gambling to problem gambling? How can you tell if you or your friend are compulsive gamblers? Here you can find answers to these questions and other questions regarding problem gambling and gambling addiction.
What is the Meaning of Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling or compulsive gambling is defined as an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the destructive effect of gambling on the gamblers life and despite feelings of guilt and remorse. Problem gambling tends to have a negative effect on the gamblers financial state, relationships and daily life. Severe cases of problem gambling can be defined as pathological gambling.
Am I a Compulsive Gambler?
1) Do you gamble until your last penny runs out?
2) Do you gamble to win back your former losses or debts?
3) Did you ever had to borrow money to continue gamble?
4) Did your gambling habit ever made you lie to your friends or family?
5) Did you ever skip work or other obligation to gamble?
6) Do you tend to gamble to forget about your personal problems or to celebrate happy occasions?
7) Does gambling have a negative affect on your daily life or relationships?
If you have answered yes on at least one of the questions listed above, then you have a problem.
Can Anyone Become a Compulsive Gambler?
Theoretically, yes. Any gambler can develop gambling problem regardless to the type of gambling he is occupied with, the amount of money and time he is spending on gambling. Researches show that slot machines that can be found in bars and convenient stores are the most addictive type of gambling activity, while lottery draws and bingo games are located on the other end of the scale. Gambling addiction is an emotional problem; its symptoms, causes and treatments are similar to any other form of addiction.
How Can I treat Gambling Addiction?
1) Group Therapy:
Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12 step self help program similar to the one offered to alcohol addicts in Alcoholics Anonymous. Group therapy also offers gambling addicts advice and support from professional counselors and other gambling addicts in different phases of their recovery process. Gambler Anonymous centers are available in more than 1,200 locations statewide.
2) Individual Therapy:
Cognitive or behavior therapy can help gambling addicts to identify their unaware thinking and acting patterns, which led them to gamble compulsively, and to replace them with controllable and healthier ways of thinking.
3) Psychiatric Medication:
It has recently been proven that antidepressant medications from the family of SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be affective in treatment of gambling addicts.
Many people have different opinions about the relationship between skiing and snowboarding. Some hardcore enthusiasts in these sports maintain that these two are distinct and different from each other. Nonetheless, skiing and snowboarding share the same platforms and manner of execution, namely snowy slopes and downward acceleration. This results to almost the same approach in the preparation and equipment perspectives of the two.
Whether you are a first timer or a veteran at skiing and snowboarding, you must learn how to prepare physically and mentally before subjecting yourself to the unforgettable adrenaline rush that these two sports offer. And that includes protecting yourself against possible injuries that can happen while you are speeding down the slope.
Besides training hard to improve performance level and overall skills, you must completely comply with the safety requirements to become a confident participant in these two sports. As over one hundred thousand people are unnecessarily injured in skiing and skateboarding every year, a serious effort to prepare against injury in these two sports is imperative.
In skiing and snowboarding, the key to an accident-free slide is in the preparation. Before you even take the wild ride down a snowy mountain cap, be sure to do all necessary preparations. The following tips could spell the difference between an enjoyable skiing or snowboarding vacation and a visit to the hospital.
Take skiing and snowboarding lessons. There is no such thing as a born skier or snowboarder. You need guidance from experts who have been into these sports for years so that you will improve your performance and safety in skiing and snowboarding.
With regard to your skiing or snowboarding outfit, wear clothing that is dependable against water and wind. Make sure that your apparel has enough protective features like wide collars that can be enfolded to cover your face against wind and zippers and strings that enable you to adjust your outfit easily and comfortably.
Acquire the proper equipment for skiing and for snowboarding. If you own the equipment, like skis and snowboards, have them custom-fitted to your preferences. If you are renting them, be sure to choose the ones that you will most likely be comfortable in. Having the right equipment will drastically improve your performance and lessen the chances of accidents.
Also, the temperature in the snowy caps rapidly changes. Sometimes the coldness in the slopes can be unbearable and you may find yourself losing much needed heat which could lead to other complication like loss of consciousness and tiredness. To prevent this wear head covering like helmet or headbands and gloves.
The snowy slopes in which you slide down your skis and snowboards have very low temperatures. Dress up in layers of clothing to keep the chill out. But also make sure that the fabric you are wearing on the inside is comfortable on your skin and absorbent of the sweat that is sure to come out of you because of the excitement skiing or snowboarding offers.
Do not forget to wear eye protection devices like goggles and sunglasses. Without eye protection, you are most likely to close your eyes due to cold winds as you speed down on your ski or snowboard. Sliding in closed eyes, you will certainly bump on anything and could even wake up in the infirmary the next day.
Get enough sleep the night before the big day. You need to be alert and sportive on the skiing or snowboarding slopes. A tired mind and body can cause accidents and injuries.
Whether you are a first timer or a veteran at skiing and snowboarding, you must learn how to prepare physically and mentally before subjecting yourself to the unforgettable adrenaline rush that these two sports offer. And that includes protecting yourself against possible injuries that can happen while you are speeding down the slope.
Besides training hard to improve performance level and overall skills, you must completely comply with the safety requirements to become a confident participant in these two sports. As over one hundred thousand people are unnecessarily injured in skiing and skateboarding every year, a serious effort to prepare against injury in these two sports is imperative.
In skiing and snowboarding, the key to an accident-free slide is in the preparation. Before you even take the wild ride down a snowy mountain cap, be sure to do all necessary preparations. The following tips could spell the difference between an enjoyable skiing or snowboarding vacation and a visit to the hospital.
Take skiing and snowboarding lessons. There is no such thing as a born skier or snowboarder. You need guidance from experts who have been into these sports for years so that you will improve your performance and safety in skiing and snowboarding.
With regard to your skiing or snowboarding outfit, wear clothing that is dependable against water and wind. Make sure that your apparel has enough protective features like wide collars that can be enfolded to cover your face against wind and zippers and strings that enable you to adjust your outfit easily and comfortably.
Acquire the proper equipment for skiing and for snowboarding. If you own the equipment, like skis and snowboards, have them custom-fitted to your preferences. If you are renting them, be sure to choose the ones that you will most likely be comfortable in. Having the right equipment will drastically improve your performance and lessen the chances of accidents.
Also, the temperature in the snowy caps rapidly changes. Sometimes the coldness in the slopes can be unbearable and you may find yourself losing much needed heat which could lead to other complication like loss of consciousness and tiredness. To prevent this wear head covering like helmet or headbands and gloves.
The snowy slopes in which you slide down your skis and snowboards have very low temperatures. Dress up in layers of clothing to keep the chill out. But also make sure that the fabric you are wearing on the inside is comfortable on your skin and absorbent of the sweat that is sure to come out of you because of the excitement skiing or snowboarding offers.
Do not forget to wear eye protection devices like goggles and sunglasses. Without eye protection, you are most likely to close your eyes due to cold winds as you speed down on your ski or snowboard. Sliding in closed eyes, you will certainly bump on anything and could even wake up in the infirmary the next day.
Get enough sleep the night before the big day. You need to be alert and sportive on the skiing or snowboarding slopes. A tired mind and body can cause accidents and injuries.
Your with a group of friends. Someone starts into a conversation about sports dynasties and inevitably, New York Yankees are automatically a part and parcel of the very first line. The topic switches to famous coaches and Vince Lombardi pops up on everyone’s list.
Doesn’t matter if it’s the Ming Dynasty of ancient China or a sports dynasty of modern America, a true dynasty dominates. It completely obliterates. It takes unwavering control, choking the life out of all who challenge it for superiority.
If you’re willing to look at it that way, then nothing and nobody can compare with the amazing John Wooden orchestrated dominance the UCLA Bruins held over all comers during a string of 10 NCAA basketball seasons.
As for the Yankees, it’s one thing to say things like, “They’ll always be there” or “They always seem to find a way” doesn’t stack up. The Yanks had to find a way to rule over an eight team league for a pennant or the best another eight had to offer for a series title.
The Bruins started evey season knowing somewhere in the neighborhood of 300 teams were looking to gun them down. Over a dozen years from 1964 to 1975, “the Bruin Era”, only Texas Western near the beginning and N.C. State during the decline, ever managed to pull it off. For an amazing run from ‘67 to ‘73 UCLA was unstoppable. For those seven years it was about more than just winning the Final Four. It was full season records, dominating the regionals, and rolling right over the unfortunate championship game opposition. No matter who that might have been. The Bruins were merciless.
The John Wooden coached team numbers over those 12 years defy criticism. Only five losses over the course of their seven year championship reign. Four undefeated seasons of 30 and 0 basketball. An 88 game winning streak involving four seasons. 38 straight NCAA tournament victories. And, for seven straight championship finals, not even allowing the opponent a sniff of victory.
There’s about as much chance of these records being toppled as another Ming in China.
Doesn’t matter if it’s the Ming Dynasty of ancient China or a sports dynasty of modern America, a true dynasty dominates. It completely obliterates. It takes unwavering control, choking the life out of all who challenge it for superiority.
If you’re willing to look at it that way, then nothing and nobody can compare with the amazing John Wooden orchestrated dominance the UCLA Bruins held over all comers during a string of 10 NCAA basketball seasons.
As for the Yankees, it’s one thing to say things like, “They’ll always be there” or “They always seem to find a way” doesn’t stack up. The Yanks had to find a way to rule over an eight team league for a pennant or the best another eight had to offer for a series title.
The Bruins started evey season knowing somewhere in the neighborhood of 300 teams were looking to gun them down. Over a dozen years from 1964 to 1975, “the Bruin Era”, only Texas Western near the beginning and N.C. State during the decline, ever managed to pull it off. For an amazing run from ‘67 to ‘73 UCLA was unstoppable. For those seven years it was about more than just winning the Final Four. It was full season records, dominating the regionals, and rolling right over the unfortunate championship game opposition. No matter who that might have been. The Bruins were merciless.
The John Wooden coached team numbers over those 12 years defy criticism. Only five losses over the course of their seven year championship reign. Four undefeated seasons of 30 and 0 basketball. An 88 game winning streak involving four seasons. 38 straight NCAA tournament victories. And, for seven straight championship finals, not even allowing the opponent a sniff of victory.
There’s about as much chance of these records being toppled as another Ming in China.
An Airsoft gun is not a traditional BB gun. The traditional BB gun shoots out a .177 metal BB; airsoft guns shoot out 6mm plastic BB. The BBS that an Airsoft gun shoots are slightly bigger and are not made of metal. The only thing that the two have in common is the fact that they resemble a real gun or weapon. Airsoft guns are also, unable to shoot full auto like machine guns.
Some people get them confused with paintball funs. Paintballs are more single in design and don’t resemble a real gun. Paintballs are mainly used for war games and they shoot plastic balls that filled with pain. The size of a paintball gun is much bigger than 6mm, almost three times bigger. Paint guns shoot like machine guns, and that isn’t an airsoft gun. If you have an airsoft electric gun, then you can shoot like a machine gun, but only with an electric one.
The airsoft gun started in Japan. People in Japan where interested in having their own gun, but the law prohibits them. So the airsoft gun was designed to look like a real gun or weapon and do not break the law. Manufactures of them have a license agreement with regular gun manufactures so that they can legally make replicas and designs the same.
They are meant to look and feel like a real, firing gun, but it doesn’t mean to cause deathly injuries. Don’t fool yourself, any time of gun can cause some harm and can hurt if one of the BBs were to hit the skin. However, they are designed to shoot for a distance of 50-300 feet and made not to even shatter glass. If you are shot with an airsoft gun BB, you may became cut and bleed a little, but the BB will not penetrate the skin. Most injuries caused by these weapons are not life threating, but they can shoot your eye out. Professionals recommend that goggles be worn to protect the eyes.
When it comes to airsoft guns, there are three basic types of guns. There are spring airsoft guns, electric, and gas-powered guns. Each type is different in the way they shoot out the BBs. You will want to learn how to properly use your airsoft gun by refereeing the type of gun. The guns are legal in the United States, Japan, Hong Kong, and Indonesia.
Some other countries also allow them to an extent. Because they look identical to real guns, many countries that forbid guns forbid airsoft guns as well. But because they look so much like real guns, you should always be cautious to where you go with one or how you act while holding one. In the United States, the nozzle of the gun needs to have an orangish, red tip so that people can differentiate if the gun is real or if it is an airsoft gun.
Some people get them confused with paintball funs. Paintballs are more single in design and don’t resemble a real gun. Paintballs are mainly used for war games and they shoot plastic balls that filled with pain. The size of a paintball gun is much bigger than 6mm, almost three times bigger. Paint guns shoot like machine guns, and that isn’t an airsoft gun. If you have an airsoft electric gun, then you can shoot like a machine gun, but only with an electric one.
The airsoft gun started in Japan. People in Japan where interested in having their own gun, but the law prohibits them. So the airsoft gun was designed to look like a real gun or weapon and do not break the law. Manufactures of them have a license agreement with regular gun manufactures so that they can legally make replicas and designs the same.
They are meant to look and feel like a real, firing gun, but it doesn’t mean to cause deathly injuries. Don’t fool yourself, any time of gun can cause some harm and can hurt if one of the BBs were to hit the skin. However, they are designed to shoot for a distance of 50-300 feet and made not to even shatter glass. If you are shot with an airsoft gun BB, you may became cut and bleed a little, but the BB will not penetrate the skin. Most injuries caused by these weapons are not life threating, but they can shoot your eye out. Professionals recommend that goggles be worn to protect the eyes.
When it comes to airsoft guns, there are three basic types of guns. There are spring airsoft guns, electric, and gas-powered guns. Each type is different in the way they shoot out the BBs. You will want to learn how to properly use your airsoft gun by refereeing the type of gun. The guns are legal in the United States, Japan, Hong Kong, and Indonesia.
Some other countries also allow them to an extent. Because they look identical to real guns, many countries that forbid guns forbid airsoft guns as well. But because they look so much like real guns, you should always be cautious to where you go with one or how you act while holding one. In the United States, the nozzle of the gun needs to have an orangish, red tip so that people can differentiate if the gun is real or if it is an airsoft gun.
There are plenty of simple ab exercises that you can do on your own, in your house, with no special equipment required.
Most of the best exercises for strengthening the ab muscles are crunches. Crunches are exercises where you bring your body right forward, curling upwards to bend yourself into a tight ‘V’ shape. There are very many variations on crunches.
One of the most popular is the exercise ball crunch, which is where you lie back onto an exercise ball, and then do a crunch slowly, without the ball moving. This allows you to keep a good crunch speed, as well as supporting your back while you crunch.
Another good method is the full crunch, where you extend out your legs and then put your hands behind your head. As you pull yourself up with your hands, push outwards with your legs. If it is done right, this will exercise both your upper and lower body.
You might also try the reverse crunch (sometimes known as a V-up), where you lie on the floor, put your legs in the air, and then instead of bending up towards your legs, you bend your legs back towards you. This has the same effect, but is less strenuous, as you are lifting less weight.
A word of warning: as ab exercise becomes more popular, some companies are trying to cash in by hawking ab exercise machines and tools – those little frames that you put around yourself while you exercise, and that rock you back and forward. However, research has shown that there is no difference between the benefits of using these machines and just doing a normal ab crunch. There is, however, certainly a very large difference in price (the difference between free and very expensive), so it’s best to just avoid them altogether.
Most of the best exercises for strengthening the ab muscles are crunches. Crunches are exercises where you bring your body right forward, curling upwards to bend yourself into a tight ‘V’ shape. There are very many variations on crunches.
One of the most popular is the exercise ball crunch, which is where you lie back onto an exercise ball, and then do a crunch slowly, without the ball moving. This allows you to keep a good crunch speed, as well as supporting your back while you crunch.
Another good method is the full crunch, where you extend out your legs and then put your hands behind your head. As you pull yourself up with your hands, push outwards with your legs. If it is done right, this will exercise both your upper and lower body.
You might also try the reverse crunch (sometimes known as a V-up), where you lie on the floor, put your legs in the air, and then instead of bending up towards your legs, you bend your legs back towards you. This has the same effect, but is less strenuous, as you are lifting less weight.
A word of warning: as ab exercise becomes more popular, some companies are trying to cash in by hawking ab exercise machines and tools – those little frames that you put around yourself while you exercise, and that rock you back and forward. However, research has shown that there is no difference between the benefits of using these machines and just doing a normal ab crunch. There is, however, certainly a very large difference in price (the difference between free and very expensive), so it’s best to just avoid them altogether.
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