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Being Prepared for Vacation Emergencies Part II: Lost or Stolen Items

November 29th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: Danielle Mitchellbr
Source: articleage.combr
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Developing a plan that will help you avoid becoming a victim of petty crime should be an important part of your travel preparations. Although most Caribbean vacationers anticipate fun in the sun, thinking through a game-plan in case your valuables are lost or stolen will ensure youll have pleasant memories to take home.
While traveling, you will most likely be carrying articles of some importance and value that are necessary for your trip, such as passports, identification, cash or other forms of payment, and other items that if misplaced or stolen, could pose some inconvenience during your trip. There are measures you can take to prevent the theft of your valuables. And if your important items do go missing, you can do something about that, too.
Steps Toward Prevention
In the Caribbean, pick-pocketing and petty theft are the most common types of crimes that involve tourists. But by following some simple words of advice, you can avoid becoming a statistic by making it more difficult for thieves to abscond with your valuables. Consider the following travel tips to keep your possessions safe while visiting the Caribbean.
First, dont draw unnecessary attention to yourself by flashing large amounts of cash or elaborate jewelry while on your Caribbean vacation. If you can help it, try to travel with as little cash as possible to prevent your money from being stolen or becoming lost without a trace. Credit cards and travelers checks are often better options while vacationing overseas because these forms of payment can be tracked and easily canceled if necessary. If your credit cards or travelers checks are lost or stolen during your vacation, contact your financial institution immediately. You should be able to cancel your missing or stolen credit card and track any purchases made after it was lost.
Dont leave important possessions unattended during your vacation. If your hotel room has a safe, use it to stow valuables. Also, if you decide to go for a swim on one of your islands beautiful beaches or are visiting public places including restaurants or casinos, dont leave items such as wallets, purses, or other valuable personal belongings unattended because they can easily be picked up without anyone even noticing. Always be aware of your surroundings, and know where your personal items, including passports, identification, money and jewelry, are at all times. Thieves are less likely to prey on vacationers who look like they are aware of what is going on around them.
The Loss or Theft of Important Documents
Travelers not only have to worry about the loss or theft of items that are monetarily valuable, but they also should consider what to do in case such important documents as passports, visas, and identification or drivers licenses are lost. These items are necessary to carry with you while traveling, but if they are lost or stolen while on vacation, you could face unexpected frustration on your trip. Even if you take preventive measures to keep your documents from being stolen, there is still the possibility you could misplace them.
If your passport or drivers license is lost or stolen while visiting the Caribbean, contact the local police as soon as possible. Also, get in touch with the closest embassy or consulate to your home country. Once you realize that your passport, visa or I.D. is missing, it is important to notify the proper authority as quickly as possible to protect yourself from becoming a possible victim of identity fraud. Notifying the authorities is the first step to follow when your passport or other important documentation is lost. Then, you must apply for a replacement. You may not be able to receive a new passport immediately while in the Caribbean, so you may want to carry several other forms of identification with you just in case.
Although you are not likely to be robbed while vacationing in the Caribbean, it is always best to be prepared for the unexpected rather than being caught off guard. To learn more about traveling safely in the Caribbean, visit Caribbean-Guide Crime for detailed information and useful safety tips.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Danielle Mitchell writes for Caribbean-Guide.info, Bahamas-Guide.info, and other Segisys travel Web sites.

? 2005, Interactive Internet Websites, Inc.

Article may only be reprinted if it is not modified in any way, and if all links remain live.br
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Lift NO Toy

November 29th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: Leisha Chuahanbr
Source: downloadbr
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For most people residing in urban cities, lifts have become an integral part of daily life. Yet, the lift would be a perfect analogy for highlighting Maslows Health Hygiene Theory. Normally the lift is noticed by its absence rather than by its presence; and in an even worse scenario after an unsavory incident. This take it for granted is triggered by the simplicity involved in using a lift and the fact that the critical parts of the lift are well hidden from the users access. This attitude converts the worlds safest mode of transport into a probable hazard. When children are the victims, the tragedy assumes different proportions.
Children Lifts
Children tend to be fascinated by elevators, particularly if they are high tech looking or even more if they are glass elevators. While lifts are easy to use and can normally not lead to incidents, the lift is definitely not a toy. The normally safe components can get tested by childrens innocence and sometimes so not innocent activities.
Door detectors: The mechanical and light detectors are safety devices meant to prevent the doors from closing in on something that might come in between the doors. These are safety devices to take care of an eventuality and not to be tested by users.
Users tend to use this to hold the elevator. Children like to play catch me if you can with these doors.
Landing doors:In cities with limited playing area, the lift lobby becomes the favorite cricket pitch and even as a football ground. The lift doors then double up as the wicket or the goal. And if that is not forceful enough, lift lobbies tend to be ideal places for horseplay.
As per codes the visible door panels and the invisible components that hold the panels in place are designed to withstand a thrust of up to 345N applied normally. The rider here is applied normally, which with age and improper maintenance could deteriorate. Even when a new door, it is not up to kids to test that the code has been complied with.
In this situation, the impact of a football or a person crashing into a door can be disastrous.
Elevator Car:
The elevator car panels often double up as a graffiti board. This however causes no real problem other than embarrassment of sorts.
The problem starts when the car is used as a trampoline or even worse when the car panels become tested as stress relievers.
The same rule that applies to the door panels apply to the car as well.
Elevator Control Panels:
The elevator control panels and buttons are the few controls within the users reach. Since they are normally of lower voltage, and assuming that the grounding (earthing) is proper, the chances of serious injury are low. On the other hand it should be left to the experts to verify the properness of the grounding.
However the damaged buttons causes inconvenience to other users.
Manual collapsible gates:
Collapsible gates expose the lift shaft to the outside world. There have been instances where the traveling cables have been hooked out from inside the shaft and tied up, leading to serious damage when the lift moves.
Partial Knowledge Curiosity:
The partial awareness children gain through observing lift technicians or the security guards doing something on the lift combined with curiosity (or bravado) is the worst combination and sure recipe for disaster.
The Solution:
The solution lies in treating the lift with respect. While adequate safeties have been built into the system, mechanical and electronic components can fail and so can the human responsible for maintaining the equipment. It is necessary that these are recognized as safeties to handle rare eventualities and not to be put to test by laypersons.
With the innovative and curious mind set of the new generation, there are many other possibilities that will crop up. In fact some new tricks and adventure games, (purposely not being mentioned here) have already caught on in other countries with very dangerous consequences.
It is up to us parents and elders along with the industry to take the lead in establishing that the lift is not a toy, and with proper maintenance, the safest mode of transport, remains as such.
This article is taken from our site www.takassociates.net.
TAK Mathews is a member of the International Association of Elevator Engineers and of the National Association of Vertical Transportation Professionals (USA). He is an Associate at TAK Associates, who are Indias only fully integrated and independent Vertical Transportation Consultants.
Visit them at www.takassociates.netbr
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A Summer Camp Like No Other

November 29th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: Monk Danielbr
Source: articleage.combr
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Imagine spending a allocation of your summer on a yacht sailing the apparent amnion of the British Virgin Islands – acquirements close sailing, scuba diving, and abyssal analysis – from some actual experienced, abreast and affable folks.
This is a altered affectionate of summer affected – a moving, live-aboard affected – alleged SeaTrek. Here, top academy and academy age-old acceptance reside and play onboard one of several 45-foot baiter sailing yachts able with the latest assurance accessories and onboard technology for 21 days.
Under the alert eyes of a able staff, SeaTrekers yield abounding ascendancy of their live-aboard yachts while acquirements seamanship, sailing, scuba diving and abyssal science. This hands-on advisory access continues throughout the boating ensuring a absolute compassionate of safe yacht operation, able scuba diving procedures, and basal abyssal science.
Captains Monk and Kat, owners of SeaTrek Adventures, accompany a abundance of ability of the sea, scuba diving and adolescence apprenticeship to the acceptance they plan with anniversary summer.
Captain Monk has 10 years acquaintance on live-aboard dive vessels, accepting formed in the Bahamas, the US and British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Honduras, Mexico, Florida, Australia, Costa Rica and Hawaii. He has developed and directed several academy age diving programs in affiliation with Texas AM University and San Jacinto College. Monk formed abundantly with Texas AMs Analysis Department and The Flower Gardens National Abyssal Sanctuary as a analysis diver and dive supervisor.
Captain Kat currently teaches Environmental Science at the University of Michigan. She is an able on island accumulation and geology, a columnist and a bit of a historian. She is an ardent sailor, accepting led three antecedent chance voyages, as able-bodied as accepting three years acquaintance with apple chic live-aboard dive vessels. Kat has ten years acquaintance diving the Abundant Lakes, Mexico, the British Virgin Islands and Hawaii.
Monk and Kat Both authority United States Coast Guard 100ton Masters Licenses and are both Instructor Trainers for the National Association of Underwater Instructors, CPR/1st Aid Instructors, and Divers Alert Network (DAN) Oxygen First Aid Instructors.
Our bigger affair is assurance – authoritative abiding that the kids appear home safe. We biking all beyond the US to accommodated parents in being above-mentioned to anniversary trip. We appoint the best sailing, diving, and analysis advisers available. Every apprentice receives claimed apprenticeship through every aspect of the boating from adopting the sails to attached up your anchorage at night, said Monk.
No acquaintance is necessary, in fact, a lot of Trekers accept never sailed or scuba dived before. To be eligible, acceptance accept to be at atomic 13 years of age and wish to learn. We action programs for those who accept never set bottom in the ocean all they way up to programs for those who accept logged hundreds of dives or canicule beneath sail. Programs ambit from anterior scuba, sailing and abyssal analysis for those with no above-mentioned experience, to awful avant-garde training for the a lot of accomplished Trekers.
Alex Cohen, age 18, has been sailing with Monk traveling on four years. Ive abstruse added in those summers than Ive abstruse anywhere. I cannot anticipate of a bigger way to absorb my summers – its a abundant activity experience. Now an agent of SeaTrek, Alex says the administration abilities he has developed through his acquaintance sailing with Monk accept able him able-bodied for his able goals, which cover a career in medicine.
While acquirements to scuba dive, acceptance are aswell led by the onboard naturalist and abyssal biologist on a array of acquirements experiences. We accept a abounding time biologist that works to acquaint kids to biology. We action a different affairs area acceptance can access academy acclaim for commutual a activity while on the expedition, said Monk, of the affairs that offers an absorbing 2:1 apprentice abecedary ratio.
The acme of the chance is if all acceptance actively participate in operating the yacht themselves. One of the bigger goals of anniversary chance is that the acceptance will be able to accomplish the 45-foot baiter for 6 hours by themselves – this is the ultimate akin of action and learning.
To add to this agitative adventure, anniversary SeaTrek barge comes absolutely able with a kayak, windsurfer, kneeboard, wakeboard, baptize skis, and speedboat in tow. Although their programs are centered on water-based activities, anniversary Trek aswell includes abounding adventures ashore. SeaTrekers backpack through old-growth rainforests, analyze bouldered inter-tidal areas, apprentice island ability from the locals, play bank volleyball, and even ball into the night.
Monk and Kat agreeably allure acceptance to participate in this amazing adventure. Open yourself to a new experience…join us as we trace the voyages of aboriginal day
adventurers and ascertain a new you!
For added advice about Seatrek programs alarm 1-877-GO SAILING (1-877-467-2454) or appointment their web website at: www.seatrekbvi.combr
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Getting To Know The Newfoundland

November 28th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: Dan Stevens -br
Source: articledashboard.combr
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Getting to know your dog starts by getting to know its breed, and that includes getting a better idea about its appearance, personality, and health requirements. Heres what you need to know about the Newfoundland:

This over-sized breed falls within the working class dog and while massive, it is actually a very sweet and well-behaved breed. The Newfoundland is an extremely devoted dog, which has been used over the years for water rescue due to its natural strength, endurance, and swimming abilities. Originally bred in Newfoundland, thus the name, this breed was taken along by fishermen as they traveled the banks.

Interestingly, there are two distinct varieties of the Newfoundland. Although most are black in color, one is a stockier and larger breed with a long coat while the other variety of the same breed has a smooth coat and is more active. Both varieties have been and can be used by helping fishermen pull in heavy nets and equipment needed to make a living on the banks of Canada.

Without doubt, the Newfoundland has a wonderful character and takes great pride in loving and protecting its family. Typically, you would look at this large breed, expecting to see something more clumsy and aloof but in actuality the Newfoundland is a strong but graceful animal. Its expression is sweet and gentle and its stature regal. Unfortunately, some people misunderstand this particular breed, expecting a dog that is high maintenance when nothing could be closer to the truth.

Physical Appearance

The Newfoundland is large and usually black in color. However, you will see some with a brown coat, along with gray, black with white markings, and a black head, white body, and black markings, which are far rarer. As with a Labrador Retriever, the feet of this breed are webbed and the coat water-resistant, making it an outstanding swimmer. The males of this breed can weigh anywhere from 130 to 150 pounds and the females just slightly smaller, around 100 to 120 pounds.

The one breed with the black head, white body, and black markings is known as a Landseer, which gets its name from the famous Sir Edwin Landseer, an incredibly talented artist. Additionally, the variety with a black coat and white markings is called the Irish Spotted Newfoundland. Depending on the kennel club where you want to show your dog, some will accept the Landseer although it could be deemed a breed other than the Newfoundland. However, the Irish Spotted variety is not allowed for show, being determined a defective or invalid color combination.

Temperament and Personality

Do not be fooled by the size of the Newfoundland. Though large, this breed is loving and gentle. In fact, some will go as far as saying its personality is placid. No matter what, the sweet disposition of this dog is unmistakable. If you have small children, the only concern would be size, possibly knocking a child down. However, absolutely cherishes small children.

For training, the Newfoundland is easy to work with in that it wants to please. Most of these dogs will go through life with a nice balance, meaning they are neither overly excited or laid back. In fact, while still a puppy, the Newfoundland is actually calm. You do want to make sure that your new dog receives proper training, setting you as the master from day one. With such a great size, having an obedient dog will make life much easier.

Typically, it takes two to three years for the Newfoundland to reach complete maturity, the perfect time for training. In addition to being great with kids, this breed is also very patient and loving to other animals. For instance, you could easily own a six-pound Chihuahua and a 150-pound Newfoundland only to find the two of them best friends. While the breed serves well as a watchdog, warning people with a deep, vicious-sounding bark, they are actually not very good guard dogs.

Because this breed of dog is so loyal to family, if its master should have to give the dog up for any reason, he or she could suffer from separation or grief anxiety. If you were to talk to Newfoundland owners, they would probably all tell you what an exceptional breed this is but remember this may not be the right breed for everyone. The Newfoundland needs a lot of space and exercise. Because puppies are growing so much, they need more rest than other breeds do.

Health

One of the primary problems seen with large breed dogs is a hip disorder called Hip Dysplasia. In this case, the hip socket wears away, causing the joint to become loose. When this happens, the dog experiences pain and inflammation. The result is walking, or climbing stairs becomes difficult. With the Newfoundland being one of the larger known breeds, Hip Dysplasia along with Elbow Dysplasia are real concerns.

Other possible health considerations include Calculi Stones within the bladder resulting from a hereditary defect known as Cystinuria, as well as a heart condition called Sub-aortic Stenosis. If you were planning to show your Newfoundland or use it for rescue, we recommend you receive a heart and Cystinuria certificate first./pbr
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Alcoholism: An Insight From A Clear Mind With Both Eyes Focused

November 28th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: Earl Ericksonbr
Source: downloadbr
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When I tried getting clean and sober, I knew I had to give up the friends that I partied with for years. That didnt sound so easy. I knew what my friends would say. Some of their comments would be, you can just have a couple, you dont have to get drunk or you can still hang out with us
and you dont have to drink alcohol, you can drink pop or coffee and you can be our designated driver. Their ideas arent going to work for me and a lot of other alcoholics. Recovering alcoholics are going to have to hang out with people who dont drink. Hanging out with your friends that drink usually only last a short while. Relapses are quite real.
Like in my case, some friends will taunt you and think youre too good for them. I had a childhood friend that would hoist his bottle to his mouth and drink it right in front of me as close as he could get, then making a gesture to give me his bottle to share. He knew I was in my early stage of sobriety and that I was vulnerable. Needless to say, he is no longer my friend–and I knew him all of my life. Friends and acquaintances will be cruel, so a person must be on his guard.
Then there are some real friends that care. I have a friend that drinks but he is not an alcoholic. I dont think Ive ever seen him drunk. He drinks responsibly. He knows I stock my refrigerator with a few beers, but he also is considerate enough not to get drunk and obnoxious around me. He usually
reclines my offer of a beer. Hell drink bottled water with me. These are the kind of friends to keep. The beer I keep around the house no longer is a temptation, so I keep it for responsible guests.
I was devastated when I made a commitment to myself to stop drinking. I dont even know myself. What if I dont like myself? I was scared to death at the thought of getting clean and sober. I wondered how boring my social life would become. I thought of the friends I wouldnt have any longer. I thought of the fun I wouldnt have any longer. I dreaded the thought of socializing with sober people. I dreaded the thought of attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and being truthful about myself. I was scared to death of sobriety.
I think most alcoholics, early in their recovery, are frightened of the notion to get clean and sober. It was the ultimate culture shock to me. I drank since age 14. I was an alcoholic by age 22. Then I continued drinking until age 50. During all those years of drinking, I probably stopped drinking only three or four times. The longest period of abstinence was only 60 days?-and 30 of them were spent in jail or in an inpatient treatment center.
The story of my life, as an alcoholic, is no different than most other alcoholics. We all have a lot in common–some are more severe than others. We are not unique. To put it mildly, we all are short- sighted and we create our own problems. We blame other people and dwell on the past. We hate ourselves as we hate other people. We hate our addiction and do nothing about it. We abuse our health and laugh about it. We complain like there is no tomorrow. Our life sucks, the law stinks, our boss is an idiot and our girlfriend or wife are driving us to an early grave.
It wasnt until age 50–and eleven DUIs later–that I finally looked hard at my life and wondered where I am going. I focused my cloudy lens. It was on the 4th of July, in 2003, that I set out on a solo mission to go camping. I chose a spot by a lake. I always feel serene when there is a lake, a river, a stream, an ocean or mountains nearby. I did my usual habit. I searched and found myself a bar nearby my campground. My rule of thumb, was that there has to be a drinking establishment nearby. I very seldom drank alone. I never quite understood why people would want to drink alone. Getting drunk by myself wasnt my cup of tea–or booze.
As I was drinking my beer at the bar, I noticed there was nobody else but me in the bar. I thought to myself how many times this has happened. Its a holiday again–another reason to drink. The setting was no different than before–a bartender watching television in this dark, quiet barroom. Here I am again–drinking beer to get drunk and be stupid. Outside its a beautiful day–warm and sunshiny. Other people are enjoying the weather and Im in a dark, stinky tavern. I was thinking how stupid this really is. I reminded myself of a song by the Charlie Daniels Band. The lyrics went like this,
Sittin on a barstool, acting like a darn fool, thats what Im doin today. Sittin here drinkin and tryin
to keep a thinkin Im boozing my troubles away. Pour me another one, I think Im finished with the other one. Im drinkin my baby goodbye.
I had been drinking more than ever, since my last DUI about two months ago. I hadnt been sentenced yet and I was awaiting my day in court real soon. I had been daring the law to bust me again. I was way out of control and I could care less. I had been driving drunk every weekend and passing out. I could hardly remember anything.
Today seemed much different than ever before. I didnt plan on this day to quit drinking–it actually just happened that way. I left the bar, near my campground, after only drinking one beer. I thought I might return later in the evening to party–but I didnt. I stayed at the campground and I prayed and hoped that some day soon I would quit drinking. I never thought this would be the day. I never was one to pray that often. But today, I felt like the ever-so-popular clich? belonged to me–I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. I never drank another drink of alcohol that day–and I havent had one since. This was a 4th of July to remember–Independence Day, my independence from alcohol.
As days led to weeks and weeks led to months–then years, I felt I had put my demons to rest. I enjoyed feeling healthy. Gone were the days of being sick and hung over for four days–the reward for one day of getting smashed. It was getting to that point–one day drinking, four days sick. Alcoholism had taken a major toll on me.
I looked back at my prior behavioral pattern and made sure not to fall or fail–like I did so many times before. I made it a point, not to preach and boast to everyone that I knew, telling them I kicked the habit. I humbled myself by moving forward one day at a time–day by day. My thoughts were clear now and my priorities straight.
I quit drinking at the right time, but many years were overdue. The laws were changing. There was no smoking in the bars. The alternative was to smoke outside or go to the Indian-controlled casinos. When I stopped drinking, I also stopped smoking. Drinking and smoking went hand-to-hand with me. I relapsed in my no-smoking quest–twice. I cant believe how stinky the bars and taverns were. I never was one to smoke in my house or in my car, but my clothes still reeked of smoke. I had been spraying my clothes with Febreeze–it was the only answer for stinky clothes.
If a person believes getting clean and sober will change their world for the good completely–they are foolish. Arguments with their significant others will remain. When I sobered up, I realized what my girlfriend was really like–so we split and I went my separate way. That was the first and only time sobriety was to blame. My other relationships through the years of drinking, always ended up my fault–every one of them.
After about a year-and-a-half in my sobriety, I was involved in a car accident–my fault. I turned in front of a car I didnt see. I failed to yield the right-of-way. Accidents still happen when you are sober. This time, my old stinkin-thinkin attitude wasnt there. If I had been drinking, I would have been arrested for a DUI and taxied off to jail. Then, when I would be released, it meant getting drunk and staying on a bender, drinking my problems away in a sea of illusions. Shit still happens when you dont drink. Of course, back in my drinking days, I would have confessed I drove better drunk–rather than driving straight.
When I drank, my pattern was precise and it was demonstrated to the hilt. If I had to go out to launder my clothes, I made damn sure a Laundromat was next door to a tavern or bar. When I had to have my car serviced, there had better be a bar next door or across the street. I couldnt imagine attending a sports event or a concert without drinking alcohol. There were times I couldnt remember any of them. How stupid is that? Then, of course, my intention to have a couple led to sometimes 8 hours or more of drinking. All the bars and taverns I frequented, might as well have had a time clock for me to punch. Thats how I made up my rules. It was my second job.
When I quit drinking, my social life became reclusive. I felt alone in the beginning. This time I didnt want to get into a relationship. It seemed I was only eating, working and sleeping–24/7. It seemed very strange. If I was to make this life of mine sober, it would be on my own terms–and it has worked. The more days I achieved sobriety, the better it was.
When my wife, Bobbie, died of cancer, in 2001, I sank into a deep, dark depression. The grief
of my loss was too hard to handle. I began to drink hard to forget the heartache and pain. She was my whole world. How could this happen? Am I doomed to the bottle for life? If there is a God, why did he allow this to happen? God surely knew what an improvement she made in my life. When I was married to her, I kept my drinking in check–but not all the time. Bobbie did not approve of drinking and driving. She despised anybody that did. Bobbie was the best thing that happened to me. I always chose my women I became involved in that didnt drink at all or who drank responsibly. I could not stand a woman drunk. I would talk small talk at the bar, but thats it.
On November 13, 2005, my older brother, Mark, passed away very slowly and painfully–from alcoholism. He kept on drinking, despite his doctors orders. He had full -blown cirrhosis of the liver.
His last drink was five days before he bled to death. He was only 55 years old.
On August 1, 1975, my oldest brother, Donald, put a gun to his mouth and pulled the trigger.
I was the one who found him. He was intoxicated and depressed on the day of his death.
He was a full-blown alcoholic. He was only 36 years old.
There are wonderful things that have happened to me since I stopped drinking. My attendance at work improved greatly. My quality and quantity of work excelled. I felt I didnt need to smoke. I slept better. I looked better. My health was restored. My depression improved. I went on real vacations by myself. I never had done that before. I have discovered many good things about myself. My hobbies became more important to me. I suddenly took a renewed interest in writing, photography, gardening, camping
and fishing. I have enjoyed listening to music and organizing my library of music, books and movies. I learned how to use a computer, now I cant stay off of it. I bought three guitars and a keyboard to learn how to play and write songs. I own and manage three websites. And last–but not least, I am writing articles on the internet and I am writing a book about my life and my struggles with alcoholism,
depression and grief.
There are so many positive things about being a recovering alcoholic. The world around me seems so much better. I feel at peace with myself. I no longer hate myself and others around me. I enjoy the easy and simple ways of living. I will continue to enjoy the serenity of sobriety, with a clear mind and with both eyes focused.
Earl D. Erickson is a recovering alcoholic. He loves writing, photography, watching old classic television and films and listening to music. He also loves to travel and do gardening in his spare time. He is an
internet author and has written for Ezine Articles in the past. He is currently writing a book
on his turbulent life and his struggles with alcoholism, depression and grief. His book is entitled,
Abstinence Makes The Heart Grow Fonder. He hopes to be finished with that project by
early next year. He owns and manages two websites. They are http://BobbiesMountain.com,
dedicated to his late wife, Bobbie, and to cancer research. His other website is http://sqwearlenterprises.com. He hopes his stories help readers identify the struggles they have encountered in similar events of their lives. Earl is a native and resident of Tacoma, Washington.br
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Fall of a Nation

November 28th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: Rev.Anthony Smithbr
Source: articleage.combr
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Fall of a Nation by Anthony Smith

Jeremiah 51:6-51:18

The Fall of a Nation, Babylon is Fallen. Is the United States ,
Spiritual Babylon ? Jer.51:6-18. I read an artical the other
day, concerning the vast wealth of America and the massive
influence that she has over the rest of the world. Most banking
systems are located in New York City, Gold ,Silver, Diamonds and
all manner of costly stones and commerce is located here.
International travel is centered here and the major religions
around the world look at her. Most commentators look at the
Kingdom of the Chaldes as Babylon, which is probably correct,
but we are looking at spiritual Babylon. Syria, Egypt, Iran,
Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Russia, China all combined together,
constitute a spiritual and physical Babylon, because of the vast
wealth and resources they poses. In my opinion these will in
time constitute a great threat to Israel and her soventry and
safety. Russia will try to exploit Israel as she prospers, and
according to prophecy, Israel will bloom. China will,
collaborate with Syria and the rest of the nations, under the
leadership of the anti-christ, to destroy Israel, at the battle
of Armageddon. The question here is, America, spiritual Babylon.
In the past 60 years, America has become the center of commerce,
and religion. She has been dubbed, the Golden one of all
nations, for wealth power and knowledge. Knowledge has been
increased, we can even clone animals, probably even people. All
Nations are jealous of her and have become drunk on her way of
life. Youve herd other nations talk about the western
influence, on clothes, movies, music, food, and freedom, their
talking about the things that America offers the world. The
United States Supreme Court in 1865 , stated that this Nation
was CHRISTIAN and owed everything to its creator. What has
happened sense to change such a dramatic statement? Have we
forgotten our Creator, have we forgotten all that He has done
for us? Lets look at some scripture, then you can decide for
yourself. Jer. 51:6-18, BABYLON HATH BEEN A GOLDEN CUP IN THE
lORDS HAND,that made all the earth drunken;the nations have
drunk of her wine;therefore the nations are mad. ,…..WE would
have healed Babylon, but she is not healed; forsake her and let
us go everyone into his own country….for His device is against
Babylon to destroy it… This is a nation of power, a nation of
influence, a nation of back-sliders, a nation that has turned
against God, and is standing alone in the world as the only
super power. All nations are turning against America and she now
is alone to face the judgment of God. Babylon the great harlot,
that has made the nations of the world drunken with her power
and influence and abundance is becoming a nation of
indifference, her power is failing, she cannot defend her own
boarders, her wealth is dwindelling and her influence has
fallen. False religions are created everywhere , marring and
giving in marriage, man with man, woman with woman, and no end
in sight. Is America the spiritual Babylon?, or is there another
with the same power that she holds, the influence. The world has
for some time now looked at Babylon the city of Iraq, for
answers. Yes Sadam Husain was rebuilding it, but that was the
physical Babylon and the scripture is speaking of Babylon the
great whore.Is Rome Babylon? Unlikely, Tiberius of Rome in the
days after Christ was crucified, stated that Rome was the center
of all hypocrisy, lust, greed and whoredom.So where does that
leave us, America. Jeremiah stated that God would have healed
Babylon but she was not willing. Could I be wrong, maby, but
here we have a chance to look into our selves to evaluate our
faith and trust in God. A chance to look into the past to search
out the future. I have noticed that sometimes ,when confronted
with the truth or a different interpretation, many scholars
resist and deneigh the interpretation. But we must start look at
the scripture a little closer to seek out the truth, while we
still can. Why is this so important for the church to discuss ?
Because all these things are tied into the coming rapture of the
church, Jesus said, when you see all these things come to pass,
know that the end is near, even at the door. I believe not only
are we near the door but Christ may even have His hand on the
door upon the walls of Babylon{guards at air ports, train
stations, power plants,coast guard, F.B.I., C.I.A.}, make the
watch strong,{National alert system}, set up the watch men,
prepair the ambushers, {9-11}, for the Lord hath both devised
and done that which he spake knob. Last of all lets look at Jer.
51:12, Set the standard against the inhabitants of Babylon I
wanted to give you something to think about, to awaken the Bride
of Christ, do not sleep, as those that sleep, but awaken unto
rightiouness.Be sober and not drunken, for a time is coming, for
a , fall of a nation.br
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OREGON SCIENTIFIC FOR DADS GRADS

November 27th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: Anonymousbr
Source: free-articlesbr
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Tualatin, OR May 2, 2003 ?? Oregon Scientific is making the ???Deans List??¯ and ???Dads List??¯ this year, with gifts for the graduate, gadget guy, or retired grandfather.

David Huffman, Vice President of Product Marketing at Oregon Scientific, Inc., said, ???Oregon Scientific products are great gifts for those ???tough to buy for people. When you need something special for Fathers Day or for that special graduate, we have products that provide the information they need in a format theyll love.??¯

Oregon Scientific helps make the transition from college life to real life easier with an essential item for any graduate – a clock or an introductory PDA. ???Not just any clocks – Oregon Scientific has features, like ExactSet??? technology, that can not be underestimated,??¯ Huffman explained. ???A new graduate is first and foremost on a hunt for a job. So, rule number one is ???Dont be late for an interview. Oregon Scientific ExactSet??? clocks automatically set themselves via radio signal to the most accurate timekeeper in the world – the U.S. Atomic Clock which is operated by the U.S. Department of Commerces National Institute of Standards and Technology. As we all know, timing can be everything.??¯

???Our new PDA188 is priced at only $30 and is ideal for organizing your errands, lists, interviews, personal calendar and address book. It even synchs to PC programs like Outlook and Goldmine,??¯ Huffman said.

Oregon Scientific ExactSet??? products come in a variety of styles to match the image of the newly accomplished business major, engineer, teacher, or political scientist. Practical, sleek, stylish, and cutting edge products with the latest in technology are available for any accomplished scholar.

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For the creative grads, the RM313PA ($39.95) ExactSet??? Projection clock projects the time onto the ceiling, has an alarm, and comes in silver, translucent blue or clear.

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For the information age go-getters, Oregon Scientific offers sleek models, some of which include a indoor or outdoor temperature display, soothing sounds, or AM/FM radio, like the new RRM968PA ($99.95).

As Oregon Scientific prides itself on providing accurate useful information that enhances daily lives, the company offers a reminder – Dont Forget Fathers Day. Maybe the toughest member of the family to buy for, Dads might like to talk about the weather or have a picture of his recent graduate proudly displayed on his desk, bureau, or nightstand. The Oregon Scientific Photo Frame with Time and Temperature, RMR232PHA ($59.95) gives a little something extra to accompany a winning smile. The RMR232PHA eliminates clutter by combining three home products into one; a Single-Channel Indoor/Outdoor thermometer, an Exact Set??? Clock with alarm and a picture frame.

As Fathers Day arrives in time for warmer weather, Dads can once again enjoy their favorite outdoor activities. Whether it is golfing, fishing, or sailing, knowing the weather is very important in planning an outdoor activity. Oregon Scientific offers a line of Wireless Home Weather Stations and Portable Weather Radios, which come completely equipped with every sensor necessary for total weather monitoring: temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, wind direction, and rainfall are just a few of the functions offered in these products. Whether your Dad is a heavy weather enthusiast, lawn care fanatic, or just wants to improve his golf game, a home weather station provides the information he can use for enjoying a favorite activity, and keep him safe and prepared for any weather condition.

If Dad is a fisherman, boater or a water recreation enthusiast, he needs to be aware of any potential hurricanes, thunderstorms, and high winds that could catch him off-guard on the open water. With the Oregon Scientific NOAA (National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration) weather radio, severe weather reports are at Dads fingertips, allowing ample time to seek shelter from the storm.

There isnt any better way to tell your Father you care than to help him stay healthy. Oregon Scientific has an extensive line of Health Fitness products, including: Heart Rate Monitors, Blood Pressure Monitors, Pedometers, and Altimeter Watches.

Oregon Scientifics Blood Pressure Monitors and Heart Rate Monitors are worn like a wrist watch and are light-weight for added convenience. Whether Dads a new Father, an old pro, or a Grandfather, monitoring Blood Pressure and Heart Rate are important health practices at any age.

Oregon Scientific products are available at specialty stores nationwide, catalogs, and through the company website, www.oregonscientific.com.

ABOUT OREGON SCIENTIFIC:

Oregon Scientific, Inc. is located in Tualatin, Oregon and was founded in 1991. It is a division of the Hong Kong listed parent company, IDT International Limited. The company is one of the worlds leading designers and marketers of award-winning, upscale personal electronic products, offering families of products that all incorporate the companys advanced liquid-crystal display (LCD) technology, for use at home, in business, while traveling and during recreational time. Oregon Scientific maintains a toll-free consumer assistance center at 1-800-853-8883 to provide product information and available store locations. The website address for further company information is www.oregonscientific.com

*Oregon Scientific products are designed to augment health care programs and are not intended as a substitute for the advice and care of a qualified health professional. Always consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program.br
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Learn The Hidden Secrets Of Writing Effective Description For Website Submission

November 27th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: Hari Qumarbr
Source: articledashboard.combr
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First let me tell you the difference between a search engine and a search directory.

The primary difference between a search engine and a search directory is how web sites get added to the database. In a search directory, people submit their sites, which are in turn, reviewed by human editors. If the editor deems that the site is acceptable for inclusion based on a set of criteria, the editor adds it to the directory. Yahoo and Open Directory(DMOZ) are examples of search directories.
On the other hand, search engines use spiders [small programs that travel the Internet looking at web sites] to find sites. The spiders retrieve content from web sites and send it back to the search engines database. The search engine then analyzes the web page and ranks it according to very sophisticated algorithms, which are closely guarded secrets. AltaVista and Google are examples of search engines.

How to write a good description for directory submission
To write a good description for a website directory like Dmoz you must remember a few key rules that apply to all of the major directory sites.

Search within the directory
First and foremost, always do a search for your website to be sure that the URL does not already exists within the directory. From time to time you might be surprised and find that your website already appears. Volunteer editors within the directories are always adding websites within their own category and they may have stumbled across your site and added it in themselves. As this has been known to happen, it is not common.

How are the current website descriptions written?
Secondly, do a search using one of your websites keywords. The directory will formulate a number of results. This will allow you to review the current websites that are listed and in which categories. Giving you a general idea of where your own site should be. By reviewing what you see on the page you will get a better sense of how this particular directory wants the descriptions written. You will want to follow the general format of how the other websites listed on that page read. If you submit your information incorrectly or in a sales and marketing kind of way then you might not get accepted. Stay away from verbs that will make you sound like you are throwing a pitch rather then giving a brief and accurate review of the site and business. Keep your description between 10-20 words but do remember to include some of your very important keywords into that small description./pbr
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10 Good Excuses to Visit Mexico

November 27th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: D. Morebr
Source: ezinearticles.combr
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Mexico was once an underdeveloped, poor country that saw very few tourists. In recent years that has changed and a lot of emphasis has been placed on tourism. As a result there are excellent facilities, marvelous attractions and a myriad of things that tourists can do. Here are 10 good excuses to visit Mexico.

1. Distance

You can experience firsthand a foreign country right at your fingertips. There are direct flights to Mexican tourist areas from many cities in the U.S. Most of the flights are relatively short, and you won´t have to deal with jet lag.

2. Less Language Barrier

You can vacation in the major cities of Mexico without a language barrier. Those who work in tourist related trades speak English. Travelling alone is not a problem.

3. The People

You will get to meet the Mexican people in different environments, and you will find them to be warm and friendly. They are willing to help in any way they can.

4. Learn about Mexican history

The reason many people travel to Mexico is to see the remnants of the Mayan and Aztec cultures. Many of the original structures have been rebuilt and look just as they did in ancient history. There are lots of interesting ruins to explore in all parts of Mexico.

5. Fantastic Beaches

Mexico has beaches on both sides. There are tourist beaches where the majority of the visitors go and there are quiet, secluded beaches that few people know about. Most of the well-known beaches have life guards.

6. Accommodations for every budget

You can just about choose how much you want to pay. There are simple to luxurious hotels, bed and breakfast inns and for those who want to experience Mexico at its best, there are the haciendas.

7. More economical

The good exchange rate between the Mexican peso and the US dollar is an excellent reason for travelling to Mexico. The exchange rate plus the lower prices make the cost of everything in Mexico more economical, especially if you don´t go to the main tourist places.

8. Good deals

Haggling over the prices is an adventure in itself. The first price quoted will be ridiculous, but as you continue to talk and offer different amounts, the price will continue to drop. At last you will both reach a price that you are satisfied with.

9. Good food

One of the best of the good excuses to visit Mexico is to be able to enjoy delicious Mexican food prepared by the Mexican people themselves. You are in for a great adventure. Eating Mexican food elsewhere will never taste the same again!

10. Experience the Latin culture

The opportunity to experience the culture firsthand is probably the best of the good excuses to visit Mexico. It is an unforgettable experience. You will come away impressed with the friendliness and helpfulness of the people, excited about the experience of haggling over the prices, and amazed at the ruins and ancient history that you saw.

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pWhen visiting Merida, treat yourself to staying in this unique upscale Bed Breakfast and a Guest house in Merida, Mexico. Located 4 blocks from the main square, it is a charming, romantic place with only three beautiful bedrooms. Why not see it for yourself here: a target=_new href=http://Mi-Esquina.com rel=nofollowhttp://Mi-Esquina.com/a/pbr
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Hope Diamond: The Killing Stone

November 26th, 2009 admin No comments

Author: G.L. Byczbr
Source: isnare.combr
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Of all the well-known big diamonds the most infamous is the Hope Diamond, a blue colored beauty that was dubbed The Killing Stone.

According to the legend the hope was placed in front of a Buddha statue when it was stolen by a warrior, Tavernier, and a curse that foretold bad luck and death befell on the stone ever since. For this transgression, the legend says, Tavernier was torn apart by wild dogs on a trip to Russia just after he had sold the diamond. This was the first horrible death attributed to the curse. But many others would follow?

The businessman who had acquired the stone sold it to king Louis XV. Soon after that, the businessman got poor, contracted a mysterious disease and died suffering terrible convulsions.

When Louis XV died, his grandson, Louis XVI, became king with Marie Antoinette as his queen. According to the legend, Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI were beheaded during the French Revolution because of the blue diamonds curse.

After the French Revolution, the diamond was hidden in a government building, where it was stolen in 1791. Six years later, the thieves were condemned to the death penalty.

In 1830, Francis Hope bought the huge blue diamond in an auction for 90.000 pounds and gave the stone his name. Francis Hope, who was a member of the parliament, soon died a sudden, unexplained death. Soon after his demise, his widow was burned to death in their mansion. After receiving the stone, Francis Hopes heir and nephew, Thomas, went bankrupted and was abandoned by his wife.

Thomas got rid of the diamond, which was purchased by the Russian prince Iva Kitanovski who gave it to a ballerina. The night she wore it for the first time she was shot and killed.

After a series of tragedies the stone found itself in the hands of Sultan Abdul Mamid II, who was forced to resign in favor of his brother and took the Hope along with other personal things to exile.

In the beginning of the 20th century the Hope was purchased by the McLean family and soon after, their daughter committed suicide and their nine-year-old son died in a car accident. Mr. McLean got really depressed and died months later in a mental institution in 1941. Evalyn McLean had wanted her jewelry to go to her grandchildren. But in 1949, two years after her death, her jewelry was put on sale in order to settle debts from her estate.

When the Hope diamond went on sale in 1949, it was bought by a famous New York jeweler: Harry Winston. For almost a decade, Winston offered the diamond on numerous occasions to be worn at balls to raise money for charity.

Then, on the 10th of November of 1958, this magnificent blue diamond traveled in a plain brown box by registered mail and was met by an eager group of people at the Smithsonian Institute. Some believe that Winston donated the Hope diamond to rid himself of the curse.

In 2003, the Hope was taken to a museum laboratory for testing. It was only the second time in 20 years the Hope has been removed from its necklace setting. They focused an ultraviolet beam on the stone. Then turned off the beam and, in pitch dark, the diamond glowed bright orange-amber (most blue diamonds phosphoresce light blue.) Its that strong color, which lasts for several seconds, that intrigues scientists. Some speculate its related to chemical impurities that give its blue color. What causes the gem to fluoresce remains a mystery. But since the Hope Diamond has inspired many legends, some say that the glowing color reflects the blood of royalty spilled during the French Revolution and the trail of death and bad luck that followed the stone over the centuries.

Aside from its bad reputation, this diamond has been nothing but good luck for the Smithsonian Museum. After Winstons donation, attendance has jumped and it has encourage others to donate, helping the museum to build its world-class gem collection.

So dont worry if you decide to visit it, the Hopes negative magnetic energy wont pass through the thick crystal glass that guards this mystical, largest deep blue diamond in the world.br
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