Robert Matthew Van Winkle aka Vanilla Ice, I apologize!

Yes, I apologize to Vanilla Ice for the years of disrespect and jokes to his contribution to hip hop.

Why? With the effort of so many people in the REAL hip hop community to keep Hip Hop fresh and real, we targeted fake rappers and sought out to execute em from the scene. Among the casualties was Vanilla Ice, one of the top selling sell outs at the time. Hip Hop recovered from the likes of Vanilla Ice and others who were used by record companies to water down and whitewash Hip Hop. But, did it really recover at all?

Instead of record companies trying to whitewash Hip Hop they instead turned to NIGGERWASH it with snap music and other corny ass styles and dances that have our people walking the streets with pride looking like cracked out and coked up Ronald McDonalds and shit! This isn't the Hip Hop we know and love. This trash rap is what we were trying to prevent when 3rd Bass made fun of Vanilla Ice in the video, Pop Goes The Weasel.

So who's the new set of weasels to replace Vanilla Ice.. who are the ones being used to niggerwash Hip Hop.. here's just a few to begin with!

So, why am I apologizing to Vanilla Ice? Because, we, as a Hip Hop people, demonized Vanilla Ice only to end up allowing pure unadulterated NIGGERS take over the Hip Hop game. I realize, today, we would have been better off with Vanilla Ice as a top rap artist than have clowns like this terrorize the ears, eyes, and minds of America.

I wonder if MC Serch ever started R.A.P.E., that is, Rappers Against Phony Entertainers. I'd like to join that movement. Yes, with another white guy! At least, he was GOODl!

Images: Soulja Boy, Hurricane Chris, and D4L aka Tools of the Niggerwash of Hip Hop Agenda (and there are others)!

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Harlem Lost Its Hood Status!

Here I go! I am on fire. I been thinking about this shit lately and I have come to the conclusion that Harlem ain't what it used to be.

Being at the African American Day Parade was fun as hell. Me and my boy Gorgeous Billy Jenkins, because he gets all the ladies, were chillin right on 125th street. The great part about it was we were hanging with some old Black women, the grandmothers and great grandmothers of Harlem. Those ladies were fun as hell and racist as all get out now! But, their racism was somewhat validated at times. That's all I will say on that!

Now, as Billy and I walked from 125th to 129th to pow wow in St. Nick projects, I noticed some ugly things about Harlem - the fellas. The ladies, young and old, were beautiful as usual. They were gorgeous and workin' it. But, what the fuck is going on with these little brothas?

Here is an example of one little dude I saw: green sneakers, yellow shoe laces, tight black jeans hanging off his ass, huge bedazzled belt buckle, tight white tee shirt, and green and yellow cap. And, that's your typical guy in Harlem now - bright and goofy lookin like some dude waitin to get robbed! But, there's no real Harlem dudes to do the jackin. LOL.

Where's the hood at? What happen to Harlem? It's like ever since these sissy ass Dipset retards showed up promoting this gay lifestyle, it's somehow been cool to rock fruity ass colors! WHERE'S THE HOOD AT? I know Dipset is the only thing viable reppin Harlem in terms of rap music (not real Hip Hop, there is a difference). But, since that's the case, I'd rather listen to country music, not follow these frilly dudes' homo-erotic fashion statements.

How do you walkin outside ya house looking like a gay Skittles commercial? How does your mother let you walk out the house looking like a ghetto Ronald McDonald? WHERE'S THE HOOD AT? What happen to the days when Harlem was hardcore. The only people you caught lookin colorful were Jamaicans but in a Jamaican pride way, absolutely NOT a I-want-a-dick-up-my-ass way! WHERE'S THE HOOD AT?

And then to make matters worse, these dudes are out-dancing the women. I know the ladies are asking the fellas to do more than the two-step in the club. HOWEVER, I am pretty sure they didn't ask the fellas to push them out of the middle of the floor so they can dance with each other. WHERE'S THE HOOD AT? Fellas aren't supposed to be comparing dance moves with each other. FUCK THAT GAY SHIT! Y'all supposed to be grinding up on the juicy booty chick to get her in trouble for when her momma come walkin by! WHERE'S THE HOOD AT? How y'all dancin with each other like some females? WHERE'S THE HOOD AT?

I blame the older brothas! I blame them for not checkin these young cats "at the door". Y'all too damn lax on these little dudes. Y'all see that shit, speak up! Tell them that shit ain't cool! Pants saggin is one thing but purposely pullin ya tight ass jeans so low ya "exit only" becomes an "easy entry"? WHERE'S THE HOOD AT?

WHERE'S THE HOOD AT? I ain't gon sit here and say all of Harlem is looking real faggedy! I saw some young pups out there ready to become full fledged dogs! But, they need to start checkin these man-bitches at the door since the older brothas aren't doin it!

I point to my boy Billy who's real Harlem. He keeps it real! You see Billy in the streets and you can't call into question his sexuality. You know he likes women! He ain't wearing no tight anything, his pants sag but only slightly, and he doesn't walk with his ass poking out (yeah that's a clue too). I would use myself as an example but I don't claim Harlem. I claim the Bronx and we been keepin it gully since day one! We ain't never, nor will we ever be into that frilly shit. I stand corrected.

Anyway, with that,

I, Anthony Taurus, as a representative of the Bronx and New York City, and former Harlem resident, hereby, revoke Harlem's Hood Status until Harlem redeems it's former glory through marked improvements in all styles!

Being that I am a representative of the Bronx, this revocation of Hood Status bans all Harlem residents from travel to any specific destination in the Bronx without an approved escort.

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San Diego and South Mission Beach

I visited San Diego, California, sometime back in the 80's. San Diego is located by the coast of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, the second largest city in California and the eighth largest city in the United States. It is a pleasant city with access to some beautiful beaches, the largest of which is Mission Beach. It has a pleasant, mild and sunny weather throughout the year with average monthly temperatures of about 14°C in January to 22°C in July.

San Diego is very near the Mexican border with the United States sharing a border with Mexico at Tijuana, just approximately 16 miles or 25 kilometers south of San Diego. Americans and tourists go to Tijuana to buy prescription drugs, fake brand-name clothing and accessories plus for entertainment. There are many night clubs at Tijuana. I went there, but didn't buy anything.

The residents of neighbouring states of Arizona and Nevada flock to San Diego in the Summer when temperatures reaches into the 100s. They would seek San Diego Beach Rentals for their sojourn there. Mission Beach Rentals are popular with the beach lovers. Mission Beach is a stretch of sandbar along the Pacific Ocean east of San Diego. There are many well-known bars in Mission Beach which are relaxed, beach-style gathering places for residents as well as visitors. The more popular one are The Sandbar Sports Grill, The Beachcomber and The Pennant.

If you are going to San Diego with a large of extended family, a great option would be Togethering, vacations with extended families. You can get accommodation for groups of approximately 12 to 27 people. You can then spend a relaxing time with the uncles and aunties or nephews and nieces, etc.

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Marijuana Smokers: Tell me about your first time!

So, I've always wondered about everyone's first time smoking marijuana. If you've smoked and/or still smoke marijuana, how did you finally pop your cherry?

1. Where did you get it from?
2. Who introduced you to it?
3. Did the marijuana have a name?
4. How did you smoke it - joint, blunt, pipe, bong, or other?
5. Who rolled/packed it?
6. How did you handle your first hit?
7. Do you remember the kind of high it was - heady hallucinogenic high or a couch lock body stone?
8. Did you get munchies? What did you eat if you got the munchies?

Important. Don't answer the questions line by line. That's BOOOORING. Answer them in story format. I'll go first.

I'll have to say that I had three first times. The first first time was back in high school when I was around 14. If any FDA folks remember, Darron aka Ratboy introduced me to it. But, it was both our first times. Supposedly some kid in the school sold it to him. Anyway, after school one day, we go around my way which was 155th Riverside Drive. We went to the underside of it which was the ramp to the Westside Highway by the water.

Side Story: Now, the reason we even did it in the first place was because when I went to go get condoms, I asked for Easy Riders. The dude gave me "e-z wider" which are rolling papers if you don't know. I was too embarrassed to ask for what I really wanted and I took the papers and left.

Anyway, we're sitting on the rocks and he pulls out this little nickle bag of green shit. We break up the bud to put in the e-z wider. Damn it all to hell if the wind aint pick up and we lose about a third of the stash. Still enough for a joint which I ended up rolling. We puffed on that shit and got NOTHING out of it. Not a damn thing whatsoever.

Note: This was also the time I found out I was violently allergic to common cigarette smoke. It's gotten better over time to where I could tolerate it. But, there was a time where I'd get really sick. I blame this on Corey R. (yeah you but not all you) for using my furry ass face to get cigarettes and cigars. We tried that shit and I think we learned our lesson. Smoking cigarettes is horrible!

The second first time was about two years later. This is after Darron had left school but we still hung out and shit fromt time to time. All I remember was them, Darron and L, picking me up after school and hanging out in St Nick projects. They already smoked before they came. Now they smoking some more. Peer pressure with a generous shot of unfulfilled curiosity got the better of me. So, we go see Quatesha (few grades below me). We hung out in the stairwell to smoke some before we came over. This is where I made the biggest mistake of my days. I was smoking and it was getting me buzzed but not high at all. I took this deeeeeeeeep puff and ended up coughing like a maniac and then throwing up in the stairwell. Needless to say, I got harassed for that shit and I deserved it. Word travels quite incredibly in one night. I get to school the next day and everyone is coughing and making fun of me.

My third first time, the REAL first time, I was 23. Already out of college working some shitty ass job on 40th & Lexington Ave. I went to hang out with my good friend Felix I. Now, college became my sort of "fuck the bullshit, I ain't here to play" mindset. I had sworn off girls and I definitely wasn't doing any drugs. But now, I am out. This only meant I'd waste a few minutes on women. It had nothing to do with drugs.

So, I am sitting on this couch as I've done plenty of times in the past. And many times in the past, Felix has offered me some smoke. I had no problem around it. But, I wouldn't smoke it. Nothing could move me. ROCK! I felt like a lot of people felt. It's not for me. Smokers are successful. They're brainless. They're ignorant. But, I see my boy is doing well for himself and he doesn't fit those bad boy stereotypes at all. Dude's a fuckin nerd to be honest! LOL.

Anyway, The first time Felix does NOT ask me to smoke, out of constant rejection, I tell him to pass that shit. He's all surprised. Felix passes me the blunt and I get my first real "I want to get fucked up!" smoke! I didn't know what I was smoking. All I knew was that it got me HIIIIGH as all hell. We got hungry and got to ordering food and shit. Since then, it's been no looking back, eyes on the prize, full steam ahead.

This is where my story ends!

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Wedding Photographers Directory by States

I am old enough to have memories of weddings of long ago. The family will just get a relative or friend who has a camera and some skills to help. Today's generation is different. They have different expectations for their (hopefully) once a lifetime event. They want something more professional. I know because I have married off 2 daughters, and both of them engaged professional photographers. I have to admit that they did a much better job at what used to pass off as wedding photographs. Not only did they produced beautiful photographs to keep memories alive, the professional photographers even produced impressive slide shows for the wedding receptions. Reluctant to admit it, but it was much better than the weddings of the past. Was nice to see myself on the screen at the wedding reception too, as the brides' father.

But how do you go about getting a professional photographer for your wedding? Some get them by word of mouth. With the ubiquitous Internet, you can now search for the perfect wedding photographer for your wedding. One way is to go to find wedding photographers. There you will find all the states of the United States of America listed. If you are looking for wedding photographers in California, go to California wedding photographers. Happened to be in Texas? There is Texas wedding photographers.

If you happen to be a professional photographer, there is a provision for you to list on that site. Unfortunately, when you click "Add listing", at the time of publishing, I got a message "Details soon....". Perhaps by the time you read this post, they will have the details up. Clicking on "Contact" produced the same "Details soon...." message. I am no professional photographer, so you may ask why I am so interested. The reason is I have a friend who is a professional photographer who do wedding photographs, and she is a member of WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photographers International). See Mana Photo Graphics for your wedding photos, I would like to let her know about this site. Perhaps I will try again later.

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Read a book, read a book!

Read A Book

Ha! That's a funny ass video! So, I was messing around with Facebook and they have this app called Visual Bookshelf. So, I set it up to show what I am reading now, have already read, and what I want to read in the future. Mind you, I have all of these books. It's not like I am just putting shit up there just to make myself look good. I think I already look pretty good without having to pump myself up in anyone else's eyes. Besides, I've never given a fuck what other's think! This is not a total list of course, I didn't put The Cat in the Hat or Latin Via Ovid although I've read those as well and I plan to make myself look good with this short list!

Anyway, here goes:
Present:
Quitting America by Randall Robinson (which I still haven't finished)

Future:
Introduction To African Civilizations by John G. Jackson
Mein Kampf by Adolf Hitler

Past:
Maybe You Never Cry Again by Bernie Mac
Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor/Outdoor Medical Grower's Bible by Jorge Cervantes
Fresh For '01... You Suckas: A Boondocks Collection by Aaron McGruder
Grown-A$$ Man by Cedric the Entertainer
Introduction To African Civilizations by John G. Jackson
The African-American Century : How Black Americans Have Shaped Our Country by Henry Louis, Jr. Gates
Race Matters by Cornel West
The Bondwoman's Narrative by Hannah Crafts
The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah (first and last time I'll ever read urban fiction)
The Complete Art of War by Sun-tzu
The Debt: What America Owes to Blacks by Randall Robinson
The House That Race Built: Original Essays by Various
Things Fall Apart: A Novel by Chinua Achebe
Tribal Scars and Other Stories by Sembene Ousmane

So what are you reading?
High School and College required readings do not count.

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Waterfalls location map for United States of America

Waterfalls are great places to visit. They give a sense of peace and serenity. The sound of falling water can be considered white noise which promotes relaxation. It will lull your babies to sleep. Negative ions are also aplenty at waterfall. As the falling water breaks up into small droplets, electrons are knocked loose from the water atoms and combine with oxygen atoms in the air to create negative air ions. Many believe negative ions promotes good health, mood, and energy and also affecting serotonin levels in the brain. Negative ions also bond with impurities in the air and remove them. Air around waterfalls are thus purer.

There are lots of waterfalls around the United States of America. And if you believe visiting waterfalls is good for you, here is help - Waterfalls By Location. With that aid, you can easily locate waterfalls plus nearby lodging options. For example, if you want to look for waterfalls plus nearby lodging options in California, click on "California" at the side of that location map and you get to California Waterfalls and Hotels By Location. Click on one of those numerous pins, and you will see a tool tip like for example "Huntington Falls", and below that is a link "Search hotels nearest to this waterfall. Click on that and you will be taken to a list of Hotels near Huntington Falls.

What a tool if you are a waterfall lover!!!!!

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Siesta Key, Florida

While there is the word "Key" in it, Siesta Key actually is not located in Florida Keys, but is a barrier island off of the central western coast of Florida between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, just below Tampa, coordinates 27°16′31″N, 82°33′9″W. Portion of it lies within the city boundary of Sarasota. Siesta Key is best known for its beaches, especially Siesta Beach. There are a few beaches in Siesta Key, all comprising 99% pure white quartz sand with a texture like refined sugar. Visitors says the sand never feels hot. Beaches include Crescent Beach, Siesta Beach and Turtle beach, but the most well known is Siesta Beach. The beach has won for itself numerous awards including being named the “Best Overall” in the "1987 International Sand Contest", the “Best Sand Beach in America 2004” by the Travel Channel, rated one of the best for walking by National Geographic Traveler, ranked third in the Top 10 US beaches in a poll by USA Today.com reader poll ranked and voted Number 3 in its list of Top 10 U.S. beaches Best Beach 2000 by Florida Living Magazine.

Other beaches in Siesta Keys include Crescent Beach and Turtle beach, but they are not as well know or popular as Siesta Beach. Further, there are lifeguards on Siesta Beach all year round, but Turtle Beach has no lifeguard. However, parking is often full in Siesta beach, but you can be sure of find a parking space at Turtle Beach. The sand is also more coarse in Turtle Beach with more shells which may attract beach combers and shell collectors. You may also find petrified sharks' teeth to take home and treasure, especially after a storm. Crescent Beach is harder to access and is more quite and secluded.

Crystal lovers has called beaches on Siesta Key as crystal beaches because the beaches
consists of quartz crystals. These crystal lovers believe that quartz crystals have physical, mental or emotional healing properties. However, these claims are not backed by any scientific studies, so you will have to take it with a pinch of salt.

You can find numerous wild life in Siesta Key with its lush tropical forest and sparkling ocean which is inhabited by wild rabbits, herons, wild parrots and other native birds, gulls, terns, plovers, pelicans, egrets, herons, ibis, spoonbills, storks, cranes, manatees, dolphins and a large varieties of fish species in the Gulf, bays, lakes, rivers and streams.

Getting accommodation for your vacation in Siesta Key is no problem as there are many types of accommodations there, including hotels, motels, apartments, condominiums, beach resorts, houses, cottages and suites.

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Florida for Nature and Beach Lovers

The United States of America is a huge federation of 50 states covering an area of 3.7 million square miles which put it as the third largest country in the world in terms of land area. Its climate ranges from severe cold polar in Alaska to warm tropical in South Florida and Hawaii. It is not uncommon for residents in the cold north to escape to the warmer weather in the south in winter. It is also not uncommon for retired residents in the north to move south to spend their retirement years in warmer weather. Many also journey to the south for their vacation

A prime candidate for such move is peaceful Kissimmee, Florida. Kissimmee is a peaceful town boasting of a few resorts, museums and art galleries. Nature lovers will love Kissimmee for there are some a wide expense of wetlands. Those who are interested in conservation of the environment may be interested in how Kissimmee restored the Kissimmee River. For the majority, probably the reason they go to Kissimmee is because it is very near to Orlando, the world capital of theme parks. The world famous Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios, etc., are located in Orlando. Orlando is an easy drive from Kissimmee. There are hotels here that provides shuttle bus services to the resorts in Orlando. Plus you probably can get cheaper accommodation here than in Orlando. For accommodations, try Kissimmee vacation rentals.

Beach lovers can check out Panama City Beach with its 27 miles of beautiful white sandy beach. They call it sugar sand. The sand is white because quartz crystals were washed down from the Appalachian Mountains centuries ago. The ocean water crystal clear and great for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. You may also be interested in skiing, parasailing, diving or fishing. College students and other youngsters will love the annual Panama City Spring Break with its concerts, contests, giveaways and beach parties.

You will love Panama City Beach if you are a golf enthusiast because there are plenty of golf courses.

Panama City Beach lay claim to the title of "Seafood Capital of the World" and you can actually find a wide array of seafood restaurants in Panama City Beach where you can enjoy fresh seafood newly harvested from the ocean.

Other attractions in Panama City Beach includes theme parks. Shipwreck Island is the largest water park around. From Panama City Beach, you can also join cruises of every kind, enjoy the beautiful scenery visit the Zoo World Zoological and Botanical Park which features a wide variety of animals, including rare and endangered species.

There is also St. Andrews State Park adjacent to Panama City Beach. St. Andrews has more than 1,000 acres of spotless sugar white sand, dunes, and emerald waters. You can snorkel, swim and do other things you normally do on a beach. You may be lucky and catch a glimpse of some wildlife like foxes, deer, coyotes, and other animals. There are two fishing piers and jetties which provide excellent vantage points year-round for casting your lines if you are interested in fishing. You may get spanish mackerel, red fish, flounder, sea trout, bonito, cobia and bluefish.

Remember to book your accommodation at Panama City beach vacation homes.

Another interesting place to visit for family vacation, nature and beach lovers in the Florida Panhandle is Fort Myers Beach. You can escape the crowd here. Watching loggerhead turtles laying eggs at the Lovers Key State Park during the nesting season (Spring and Summer). Bottlenose dolphins, West Indian manatees, marsh rabbits, roseate spoonbills, and bald eagles also make their home here.

Matanzas Pass Preserve is a wetland eco-systems containing one of the last maritime oak hammocks in the area. There is 1.25 miles of trails that wind through the canopies of mangroves and the oak hammock for your hiking pleasure while you enjoy a nice view of the Estero Bay. You will probably spot plenty of wildlife ranging from dolphins, manatees, herons, egrets, pelicans and snowbirds, and also the native plants.

An unique place to visit is the Mound Key, constructed with shells left by the Caloosa Indians over 1,000 years ago. However, it is accessible by boat only.

Or visit the Thomas Edison and Henry Ford winter homes for a glimpse into the life of these 2 great personalities. Or take a stroll on the Fort Myers Beach Pier, which reaches about 600 feet into the gulf. Cast a line here and get a catch you can take a photograph with to boast about at home.

For accommodation, chose and book yours online via Fort Myers Beach vacation rentals.

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Accommodation for students of University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

One of the 16 public state in the state of North Carolina is the Universities of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill which specializing in medicine and law. If you happen to have children taking their tertiary studies at UNC Chapel Hill, you will be worried about getting affordable and safe accommodation for your children. If so, it looks like you are in luck because there seem to be a charitable person or group of persons who have set up a website to help in this respect. I am referring to UNC Chapel Hill student apartments or UNCLiving, and it says "For the students, by the students" on that site. I don't see any advertisements which means some kindly soul or souls are financing the site. On my part, I wouldn't mind seeing a couple of ads, as it is only fair to try to recover some of your cost, if only to try to cover for hosting fees, etc, but no, not a single ad on their site other than the free classified ads.

OK, I found some information on how the above site came about. UNCLiving.com was founded by Sir Joe and Sir Billy (not even their full name is revealed, shows how humble they are) sometime late in the fall of 2006 (obtained from About Us). After creating NCSULiving and getting such good feedback, the two could not help themselves to continue to expand. The basic idea is that students need a way to search for living accomodations without driving from place to place or being at the mercy of a property manager. To that I would say a big AYE because I have an environmental site Enviroman Says and I know very well the wastage in time, precious fossil fuel, and increment to the green house gasses that driving from place to place to hunt for accommodation will involve.

And at their Site Map, I saw a link The Warehouse (this don't seem to be a part of UNCLiving site, and the term Warehouse don't convey an idea of condusive living) where for a total cost per month is just $595.00, you get water, electricity, T-1 internet access, cable TV, fire safety features, locked main entrance with intercom and remote lock, key card access, guard on duty every night, fitness center, large capacity, stackable, GE washer and dryer in every apartment, located just three blocks west of the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill so it is not necessary to drive or even take the bus (another plus for the environmentally and fitness concious) and is located in the heart of downtown Chapel Hill within easy walk to more than fifty restaurants.

Some of the sites listed in their Site Map even have the blueprints (plans) of their apartments published. An example is Autumn Woods Blueprints so you will know exactly what you will be getting.

Looks like a really interesting and environmentally friendly site to me, something I myself will like to create if I have the ability.

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Help for US immigration law related problems

United States of America is a country of immigrants and descendants of immigrants. Unfortunately this does not necessarily mean that immigration to the United States is a straight forward process or immigrants would not have difficulties to comply with the complicated immigration laws. You may have to deal with temporary (non-immigrant) visas, permanent (immigrant) visas, maintenance of lawful permanent residence, complying with registration requirements for aliens in the United States, citizenship and naturalization, etc.

There is now a "Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001" or more easily referred to as the USA PATRIOT Act after 9/11. There is also the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRIRA) and possible deportation related to these 2 Acts or others mentioned above.

When dealing with such complicated matters, it is best to employ professional and experienced help, particularly lawyers who deal exclusively with immigration laws. The Root Law Group is an exclusive Immigration Law Practice should be able to provide such help. According to them they serve the immigrant community and represent individuals, small businesses, and large multi-national corporations in all aspects related to U.S. immigration law. They say they have great success in all employment-based and family-based petitions and if one reads their Clients' Testimonials which also include clients' rating them, you would tend to agree.

They also claim that they are different from many other firms by providing personalized attention to solving their clients' problems and make efforts to provide each client with successful results by considering all appropriate and creative options.

They can be contacted by email or phone, including toll free calls and have offices spread around California. You can view their offices, addresses and telephones by going to Root Law Group's list of offices and contacts. You can also call them toll-free at (888) Root-Law (888) 766-8529 for a free initial consultation.

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Maui Island, Hawaii

Hawaii is the 50th state of the United States of America and is one of two states which do not have a common boundary with Continental United States of America. The other state is Alaska. However, there is a world of difference between Hawaii and Alaska. Alaska has a long cold winter and a short, cool summer. Hawaii is warm all year round and is ideal for tourism. In fact, people from Continental United States of America plus people from other parts of the world find it a conducive and pleasant place to spen their vacations. Some even retire there.

Hawaii consists of 6 main islands (some says eight) in the Pacific ocean, of which Maui is the second largest. Maui was formed from the eruption of 2 adjacent volcanoes, with an isthmus connecting them. It is popular with people from mainland America. Makena, a small residential area is closely related to Wailea which is just a few miles north of Makena. Often, the two are lumped together. You can get more information about Makena from Information for Makena, Maui, Hawaii. The Makena beach, which some call the Big Beach has been touted as one of the best beachs on Maui Island and is a good place to spend your vacation by the seaside.

Hawaiian Beach Rental is a site that offers convenient choices of vacation rentals, condominiums and hotels which you can book online. Among the choices they offer are Wailea Makena Condos. However, if condominiums are not what you are looking for, they also have Maui Vacation Rentals (at time of publishing, there are 157 of them for you to chose from) and Maui Hotels (270 of them).

And if you are travelling from Continental United States, you can also take advantages of attractive prices on airfare, hotel and rental car from Hawaiian Vacation Packages.

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Blaxploitation & Verbal Acrobatics

I have always been a big fan of blaxploitation movies. Oh, you don't know anything about blaxploitation? Dictionary.com has a great definition, although not the first one but definitely the most complete:

A genre of American film of the 1970s featuring African-American actors in lead roles and often having antiestablishment plots, frequently criticized for stereotypical characterization and glorification of violence. While African-American filmmakers were substantially involved in making early movies in this genre, their participation in subsequent productions was minimal.

The one major attraction to these movies, for me, is what I call "verbal acrobatics". Remember, you heard the term coined here first! Verbal acrobatics basically refers to the language used to express simple ideas with more colorful words.

A small word on language: A lot of people see that type of language as ignorant; ebonics is what they call it. But, being an individual who loves how language is used, I realize that what we call ebonics is simply a very legitimate dialect of American English just as American English is an offshoot of British English which is an offshoot of the Queens English which I believe has roots in German. The point is, that while many of us seek to condemn such differences in language, usually due to racial preferences, I prefer to recognize and embrace wholeheartedly the concept of the natural evolution of language.

Let's take for example the English dialect of Caribbean peoples. Instead of viewing those people, my people, as ignorant or backward, I see a people who are changing language to suit their own means - making it their own! It's been happening for millions of years. Birds of similar species have different calls (language) depending on their location. Other animals are the same - including humans.

Anyway, let's move along. What I want is for everyone who reads this to say something... Blaxploitationy. Work those minds. Show me your verbal acrobatics. Here are some examples:

From Black Belt Jones (inspiration for this blog)

Pinky: Choose money over honey? Shiiiiit. Man, you can pull out my groin, just gimme that coin! Man, I'd rather be dead than not have any bread! Pinky's mama didn't raise no fool!
Translation: I prefer money to women!

Sydney: I'm gonna make you look like a sick faggot.
Translation: I am going to beat you up!

Muhammad Ali (classic verbal acrobat)

"I done wrestled with an alligator, I done tussled with a whale; handcuffed lightning, thrown thunder in jail; only last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalised a brick; I'm so mean, I make medicine sick."
Needs no translation.

Now here's my own effort:

Pound for pound the most beautiful man alive. I mend broken hearts with my most beautiful smile. I swear 'fore God, I have too much class! I'm never one to have bubblegum but I have huge supply of whoop ass. My ass cash more checks than my mouth can write. I never go down in a fight. I treat the ladies right and I go down all night. I give all praise to God but recognize, it's mutual appreciation. I come out on top in all situations. I'm the missing verse in Revelations. I am what God envisioned during the great creation.

I think I may have just bust a rhyme, yo! In any case, YOUR TURN!

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Pasadena California Dining

Pasadena California Dining
by: David G. Hallstrom, Sr.

According to the latest U.S Government census the city of Pasadena, California has a population of just under 140,000, however the city boasts in excess of 500 dining establishments.

Pasadena has a wealth of shopping centers, stores, boutiques, movie theaters, art galleries, museums and of course it is the host of the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl and because it is situated on the edge of the San Fernando Valley, at the start of the San Gabriel Valley and just nine miles north of downtown Los Angeles it draws on a large area population. According to the Pasadena Visitors Bureau the city employes in excess of 100,000 people.

Due to the foregoing the city hosts an inordinantly large number of restaurants, coffee shops, fast food places and specialty restaurants. Whether you are looking for a cheap, mid priced or expensive dining establishment, if you are hankering for central or south American, Chinese, French, Indian, Italian, Japanese, Mexican, Thai food, a hamburger joint, a steak house, indoor dining, outdoor dining or a drive thru, you will find what you are searching for in Pasadena.

Old Town Pasadena is fast becoming one of Los Angeles County's largest attractions. Old Town has several restaurants on every block, many with patio or sidewalk seating where you can take a break from shopping, movie going, visiting art galleries or museums and have a leisurely lunch, dinner or cup of coffee while people watching.

Everywhere you go in Pasadena you will find places eat and have fun. Have some of the best hamburgers in California at Original Tommy's or In-N-Out, have good traditional Mexican food while listening to live music at places like Mijares Mexican Restaurant, have a prime cut of beef at the Parkway Grill or the Beckham Grill, dine while enjoying stand up comics at the Ice House, dine dance and drink at Moose Mcgillicuddy's, have sushi at places like Zono Shushi or have great Italian dishes at any number of fine Italian restaurants. Whatever you are searching for in a restaurant you will find it in Pasadena.

For more information about the city of Pasadena, California and a directory of Pasadena restaurants and restaurant reviews visit Pasadena City Guides And Directories

Permission is given to reprint this article providing credit is given to the author, David G. Hallstrom,Sr., and a link is listed to USA City Directories the owner of this article. Anyone or any company reprinting this article without giving proper credit and the correct link, is doing so without permission and will be subject to legal action.

About The Author

David G. Hallstrom, Sr. is a retired private investigator and is currently the publisher of several internet directories, including United States Guides And Directories a directory of national, state, county and city guides and directories listing local guides, directories, web sites and web pages providing resources, services and information about things to do and places to go.

dh@usacitydirectories.com

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Vacations in Manhattan

Vacations in Manhattan
by: David Chandler

Some people think that Manhattan and New York City are synonymous, but they are not. Everyone should get to see New York City in his or her lifetime, but this network of neighborhoods can be intimidating without guidance. Manhattan is only one of the five boroughs that make up New York City.

There is much to see and do in Manhattan that it could take weeks to visit everything. First, familiarize yourself with the best ways to get around the city. Since you will probably be spending most of your time outdoors, check the weather and plan accordingly.

Manhattan is the home of the Empire State Building, Time Square, Central Park, Greenwich Village, China Town, the former site of the World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, Battery Park and the Statue of Liberty, and much more.

Let us not forget some activities that you can do while in the Manhattan, you can see a Broadway show, check out the wineries. Taking a self-guided tour of Rockefeller Center to discover the art-deco masterpieces that this 19-building complex contains. Check out the sober grandeur of Grant's Tomb National Monument near Riverside Church, hey and while you are there go ahead and climb the Church bell tower to see the fabulous city views.

Want more ways to watch your wallet? Museum of Modern Art-, which hosts Target Free Fridays from 4-8pm, or Staten Island Ferry- where you can enjoy the skyline views, plus a trip to Staten, The Cathedral of St. John and tour the world's largest Gothic cathedral, Central Park - where nature never charges a fee.

Be aware of the major events planned year-round, this will give you an opportunity to choose a time that has more activities for you and your family. From somber reflection at Ground Zero to the exuberant performances on Broadway to our excellent dining, NYC provides an experience for any taste.

The Manhattan skyline consists of some of the tallest buildings built in the United States.

About The Author

For more information, visit the Manhattan Info Center at Manhattan Info Center

David Chandler
Stock Market Genie
Stock Market Genie

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Experience The Magic Of Disneyworld

Experience The Magic Of Disneyworld
by: Clinton Douglas IV

Sunny Florida's own Disneyworld is an enchanted kingdom able to bring out the kid in all of us. Who can resist a day or more among your favorite Disney characters within an unspoiled, fairytale land? Set among four awe-inspiring theme parks, Epcot® Center, Magic Kingdom® Park, Animal Kingdom® Park and Disney MGM Studios, visitors engulf themselves in 30,000 acres of rides, thrills, attractions, tours, shopping, wondrous entertainment, sports, resorts and lodging. You’ll find Disney water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, are two of the most invigorating water adventures in the nation.

Surround yourself in the delightful Disney theme by staying at nearby resorts. Patrons gain access to the convenient ground travel service of Disney’s Magical Express, so you bypass airport baggage claims and arrive quickly and safely in your room. Many resorts include character breakfasts, in-room refrigerators, quick service dining, pizza delivery, playgrounds, plush suites, themed swimming pools as well as walking and jogging paths. Disney’s value resorts start at less than $100 per night, while deluxe resorts begin at $200. You can even experience the great outdoors while visiting Disneyworld, with cabins and campsites starting at just $39 per night.

Spend your day whizzing and whirling through thrill rides like Space Mountain®, Splash Mountain®, Expedition Everest or Mission: SPACE, or please your little ones with Kidcot Fun Stops, the Honey I Shrunk The Kids movie set and the Wildlife Express Train. Hold onto your hats, mate, because Disney is celebrating the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie. You may find Jack Sparrow lurking in Adventureland® or the ride itself.

Meals are just as adventurous, with cuisines ranging from American to French, German, Mexican and Italian. Within the park, you can choose from character, casual or fast dining, dinner shows, lounges and special themed restaurants like 1900 Park Fare where you’ll dine with a magical English nanny, a princess or one of the many characters from the rabbit hole. You can also stop in at Backlot Express to dine among movie studio props or visit Beaches & Creme Soda Shop for a real Rock ‘n Roll escapade and a taste of the famous “Kitchen Sink Sundae”.

Complete your sun-drenched, action-packed day with one of the most sophisticated fireworks displays you’ll ever witness. Wishes™ Nighttime Spectacular lights up the warm evening sky as your favorite Disney characters – from Cinderella to Ariel, Jiminy Cricket and Peter Pan – sing, dance and tell an unforgettable tale. You’ll see that dreams really can come true.

Plan your magical Disneyworld vacation, from air travel to lodging and more today.

About The Author
By Clinton Douglas IV of www.vasrue.com who provides free, quality articles for your newsletter, website or publication on topics such as Disneyland: www.vasrue.com vacations. Please link to this site when using this article.

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Beyond the Strip: Great Las Vegas Outdoor Activities

Beyond the Strip: Great Las Vegas Outdoor Activities
by: Jillian Scheeler

Las Vegas parks and recreation and Nevada National Parks

Las Vegas is known for its casinos, wild nightlife, gambling, girls and shows; but the greater Las Vegas area offers much more. From hiking, biking and horseback riding to amazing Nevada National Parks, lakes and canyons, the Las Vegas area is a recreational playground. Whether you have an afternoon to spare or a weekend, there are plenty of Las Vegas outdoor activities for everyone. After spending the week drinking and gambling in dark casinos, a little exercise and sunshine can do you some good and Nevada National Parks will offer just that.

Red Rock Canyon

Only 20 miles from downtown Las Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area covers nearly 200,000 acres of multicolored sandstone and limestone, canyons, mountains, washes and waterfalls, a variety of desert flora and fauna, and wildlife, including bobcats, desert bighorn sheep and wild burros. I don't know how "wild" the burros actually are though. While hiking, biking, rock climbing and seasonal camping is offered, the most popular choice is the 13-mile scenic drive through the park. Whether you spend the afternoon or weekend, Red Rock Canyon offers up natural scenic beauty and is worth the visit.

Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam

Lake Mead is the perfect place to cool off from the summer heat. Located 25 miles east of Vegas, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area has about 1.5 million acres of desert land and clear water, with 550 miles of shoreline for swimming, boating, sunbathing, water skiing and fishing. Other activities include hiking, camping, horseback riding, roadside sightseeing and wildlife photography. Lake Mead wildlife include bighorn sheep, mule deer, coyotes, kit foxes, bobcats, ringtail cats, jack rabbits and the endangered desert tortoise and peregrine falcons. The amazing Hoover Dam is also nearby with daily tours.

Valley of Fire

Located only six miles from Lake Mead and 55 miles from Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire is Nevada's first state park and its largest. This Nevada National Park is named for its fiery sandstone formations of reds, purples, tans, whites, oranges and yellows, which were formed from shifting sand dunes, years of erosion, wind and climate. Although the geology is similar to Red Rock, the park also offers early Native American culture and their rock art and petroglyphs are found throughout the area. The area was frequently visited by the ancient Basket Makers and Anasazi, who used the area for hunting and religious ceremonies. A popular scenic drive is around the "White Domes." For recreational activities there is climbing, picnicking, camping and rock scrambling.

Mount Charleston

Get away from the slots and visit Mt. Charleston for fresh air, amazing views and majestic mountain scenery and wildlife.

Only 35 miles from Vegas, Mt. Charleston Recreation Area is a welcome relief from not only the city bustle, but the stifling desert heat during the summer. At an elevation of 11,918 feet, Mount Charleston is the third highest peak in Nevada.

The recreation area offers 180 campsites, 150 picnic sites, hiking, biking, picnicking, horseback riding, skiing and snowboarding.

Zion and Bryce Canyons

If you're feeling a bit adventurous, cross the border to Utah and visit Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Zion has everything from amazing river carved canyons to scenic waterfalls. The area also has amazing wildlife consisting of 75 mammal species, including mountain lions and mule deer to hundreds of bird varieties and 32 reptiles and amphibians. An hour further away from the 2 ? hour drive to Zion, Bryce Canyon is a geologic wonder of colorful limestone, with thousands of arches, spires and mazes. Don't miss the Grand Staircase, which is a series of colored sandstone cliffs, stretching from Bryce Canyons to the Grand Canyon.

Recreational opportunities include camping, biking, backpacking, cayoneering, climbing, swimming and tubing.

Grand Canyon

Depending on which rim of the Grand Canyon you venture to, it will be a good day's drive from Las Vegas, but well worth the visit. Carved over millennia through the rocks of the Colorado Plateau, the Grand Canyon never ceases to be awe- inspiring, with its beauty and size. If the scenic views aren't enough, there's hiking, backpacking, biking, bird watching, boating, camping, cross country skiing, fishing, horseback riding, nature walks and more.

About The Author
Jillian Scheeler is a spontaneous road-tripper and avid writer working on assignment for Travel Post - The Premier Source for Unbiased Hotel Reviews and Ratings. This article can be reprinted freely as long as all links remain active.

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New Jersey Camping & You: Perfect Together

New Jersey Camping & You: Perfect Together
by: Eric Stephenson

Why the heck would I want to go camping in New Jersey?

I get asked that question just about every single day and I'm pretty tired of it after all these years. So I'm going to answer that question right here for the last time.

There are literally hundreds of reasons to go camping in New Jersey, but there is one large, and I mean really large, reason:

Where else in the country can you drive less then 3 hours and go from the mountains, to the shore, to the marshlands, to 3 different major metropolitan areas to several major lakes and everywhere in between?

Camping in New Jersey is literally the best of all worlds. There is just about nothing you cannot do while you camp in New Jersey. You have your choice of over 120 campgrounds and State Park facilities to choose from not to mention thousands of acres of public land to explore.

Just about every one of the privates campgrounds in the state have craft activities, pools, fishing ponds, sports activities and so many other amenities I can't even count. Most of them are clean, modern and well suited to just about any type of camping. They are all within a decent driving distance of dozens of cultural, sports, historical, recreational and children related attractions.

Canoeing, hiking, biking, birding and unlimited recreation activities can also be found at campgrounds around the state and many sites are within a short drive of some of the state's premium attractions and fabulous Atlantic Ocean beaches and boardwalks.

New Jersey is literally a kaleidoscope of natural, picturesque landscapes filled with some of the best and exciting camping experiences anywhere in the Northeast part of the country. Personally I think camping here in New Jersey is as good, if not better, then just about anywhere in the country.

More than 25,000 sites/cabins/yurts/rental trailers await your visit, sites of all shapes and sizes that can accommodate campers with everything from tent sites to pop-ups to fully equipped RVs.

From the Delaware Water Gap to a view of the Statue of Liberty to wooded campgrounds in the Pine Barrens to the sandy beaches of the Jersey Shore, the ideal camping experience is close at hand.

No matter what type of camping you choose, tenting, RVing or cabin rentals, New Jersey has something for you. Pick a region to begin investigating where you want to camp:

Atlantic - It's no wonder the Atlantic Region is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. Atlantic City and its world-famous beach and boardwalk, luxurious casino, non-stop gaming action, the hottest entertainers, the best in dining, and quality sporting events. New Jersey Camping in the Atlantic Region gives you access to this great area!

Delaware - It's where history was made. And where nature rules. It's where the arts come alive and stately mansions reign. New Jersey's Delaware River Region is all of these and more. It's a unique region that can provide you with many things to do and see on your next vacation. New Jersey Camping and you, perfect together!

Gateway - Live with action, the Gateway Region has everything for your perfect vacation including New Jersey Camping activities, New Jersey State Parks and New Jersey Campgrounds.

Shore - Mention the Shore Region, and certain images immediately come to mind: more than 60 miles of pristine beaches from Sandy Hook down to Holgate; surfcasting off Seaside Park; perhaps some bodysurfing off Bay Head; or maybe a moonlit walk in Surf City. Anything you want can be found in New Jersey Camping.

Skylands - Gentle mountains. Skiing. Rock climbing. Horseback riding.Would you believe you're in New Jersey? New Jersey Camping and you, perfect together!

Southern Shore - Walk along 30 miles of wide sandy beaches. Experience the warmth of a Victorian inn. Take a stroll through history or enjoy the fresh bounty of the sea at a gourmet restaurant. New Jersey Camping offers a wide variety of ways to take advantage of this area.

So, whether it's a cabin by a lakeshore, an RV minutes from the Statue of Liberty or just a sleeping bag amidst the rugged mountain wilderness, New Jersey Camping is perfect for you.

About The Author

Eric Stephenson is an avid camper and publisher of New Jersey Camping Information where you can get all the information you will ever need about camping in New Jersey as well as information about camping and the latest technologies and products related to camping. This article is copyrighted. It may be reproduced only if the hyperlinks here are left intact.

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Some wise words from Theodore Roosevelt 100 years ago.

The year is 1907, one hundred years ago......Theodore Roosevelt's ideas on Immigrants and being an AMERICAN in 1907.



"In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language... and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."
-Theodore Roosevelt 1907
If we listened to these words I wouldn't have to push 1 for English!
Help change America, be heard.

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A pledge everyone should be proud of...

The pledge of allegiance is an oath of allegiance to the United States as represented by our national flag. Many of us learned it in grade school and haven't recited it since....Considering current events it is time more Americans take pride in our great Nation and that pride should be reflected by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

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Orlando, Florida - Golf's Ultimate Theme Park

Orlando, Florida - Golf's Ultimate Theme Park
by: Susanne Pacher

My husband loves playing golf and I am myself am pretty decent at the sport. So it was a given that we would be playing a few rounds in Orlando. We had a chance to sample a number of golf courses first-hand and got a personal appreciation of the great number and variety of golf courses in the Orlando area.

I had a chance to talk with Mike Jamison from Golf Orlando to get a better overview of the extensive golf facilities that the Orlando area has to offer.

1. Orlando is not only the world's No. 1 vacation destination, but it is also called "Golf's Ultimate Theme Park". Please tell us more about that.

Isn’t it interesting how sometimes the most obvious answer to a tough question is sitting right before your eyes, yet it takes you days, months, even years to see it?

Officials of the marketing co-op GolfOrlando realized that recently when they finally nailed the perfect marketing tag line for their 25-course organization.

For years the group had wrestled with various themes that might set Orlando apart from its competition in the golf destination wars. Then one day a member asked a question – “What is Orlando known for?”

The obvious answer? Theme parks. Orlando is the world’s No. 1 vacation destination, and the incredible collection of theme parks plays the leading role.

It was at that moment that the perfect theme line crystallized – “GolfOrlando – Golf’s Ultimate Theme Park.”

It is a nice fit not only because of the foundation of Orlando’s vacation pitch – theme parks - but also because it reflects the incredible diversity of the Central Florida golf landscape. Golf in Orlando provides its own type of outdoor adventure.

2. Please tell us about the types of golf courses that are available in the Orlando area.

Looking for a taste of the U.K.? How about Royal St. Cloud, where every hole transfers you to the fabled courses of the British Isles, and where the 2004 and 2005 British Junior Amateur was conducted? Try a couple of very popular Ron Garl designs for a Scottish touch. Eagle Creek, located near the Orlando International Airport, offers open, rolling fairways, large, undulating greens and those dangerous revetted bunkers that dot the landscape in Scotland. Eagle Creek was recently ranked among the top 10 new courses of the decade in Florida by Golf Travel & Leisure, and is the first par 73 course in Orlando and the first to use Mini Verde greens.

On the north side of Orlando is Timacuan Golf & Country Club, ranked as high as No. 14 in Florida by one statewide publication. Its front side offers up a true taste of Scotland, while the back 9 takes on a more Carolinas low Country feel. Hole 2, a long water-dominated par 4, was recently named the 2nd most difficult hole in Central Florida by an area publication. Timacuan is a locals’ favorite.

A very similar routing by Arnold Palmer awaits you on the south side of town. The Legends at Orange Lake opened in 1998 and features a Scottish style front nine (The Links) and a tree-lined back nine (The Pines). The feature holes are the 610-yard 4th on the Links nine and the 432-yard 13th, called the Island Oak.

In need of drama? How about Diamond Players Club in Clermont, where the elevation changes are so spectacular that the track is often referred to as “Florida’s mountain course.” You’ll need to buckle up when tackling Mystic Dunes’ green complexes. They offer up slopes that drop as much as 10 feet, and you might find an elephant’s trunk poking out of a few serious mounds. Also, several of the fairways feature whiskey barrel bunkers as guideposts. This Gary Koch-designed course personifies the word “adventure,” as does Highlands Reserve, a roller coaster-like golf experience with elevation changes of 120 feet and dramatic scenery. Further south on Highway 27 is Steve Smyers’ Southern Dunes, another course that features elevation change uncommon in Central Florida. Combined with the abundance and creativity of the bunkering, it is easy to understand while Southern Dunes is ranked among the To 100 Modern Day Courses” by Golfweek.

Excitement? Falcon’s Fire by Rees Jones has a couple of thrillers, especially its cape hole, the par 4 13th. This one dares you to bite off more than you can chew, and while it is tempting to rip a big tee shot toward the green, the money play is to safely land your ball into the slender fairway utilizing a more forgiving angle and a fairway wood.

If you are a traditionalist, the options are boundless. Shingle Creek is the newest of the traditional Florida layouts, bordered by dense oaks and pines in a backdrop along historic Shingle Creek. Location is another benefit as it rests near the major tourist areas. Harmony is a Johnny Miller design that falls into this category. Its’ strength lies in the greens complexes that feature angular bunkering creating a variety of challenging pin placements. Ridgewood Lakes provides a beautiful cruise through the hardwoods off Highway 27, and tops off the journey with an awesome finishing hole.

How about a stroll though nature? Stonegate Golf Club, designed by Ron Garl, rests upon 3,300 acres of pristine wetlands, woodlands and 100-year-old oak hammocks, and places the emphasis on the short game. Mike Dasher’s North Shore looks as if it should be located deep in the country as it sits comfortably amidst lush surroundings, yet it is conveniently located seven miles from Orlando International Airport. Diamondback, a Joe Lee design located in Haines City, was carved from 240 acres of virgin forest and offers dramatically rolling fairways bordered by dense trees, pristine natural wetlands, and well-positioned water hazards.

If convenience is important, MetroWest could be the perfect choice, as it is located near Universal Studios and the International Drive tourist section. It is a Robert Trent Jones Jr. masterpiece that features wide fairways and challenging approach shots. Nearby just off International Drive next to Sea World is Grande Pines, a recently renovated Smyers design that features a number of outstanding risk/reward holes. Celebration Golf Club, located near Walt Disney World, was designed by father Robert Trent Jones Sr. and son Robert Trent Jones Jr. and places emphasis on approach shots.

Is notoriety important to you? ChampionGate’s two courses play host annually to the Office Depot Father/Son Classic, a favorite among dozens of PGA and Senior PGA Tour players. Orange County National has twice hosted the PGA Tour Qualifying School Finals on its two tracks, Panther Lake and Crooked Cat, They offer diverse tests that are good enough to challenge and determine tomorrow’s professional stars.

Some folks enjoy walking out their hotel door straight to the first tee. Orlando offers several choices for stay-and-play buffs, including Hawk’s Landing. Attached to the spectacular Marriott World Center, Hawk’s Landing recently underwent a complete renovation by Robert Cupp. It has water on 15 of the 18 holes and it features its own version of “Amen Corner” – holes 12, 13 and 14.

That small taste gives you an idea of the diversity available through GolfOrlando, truly “Golf’s Ultimate Theme Park.”

3. Please inform us about the golf practice facilities and the teaching professionals that are available in the Orlando area.

Some of the game's most respected teachers - David Leadbetter, Mike Bender, Rina Ritson, Bill Madonna, Brad Brewer and Fred Griffin to name a few - do their magic in Central Florida.

Orlando is home to some of the nation's finest practice facilities. The Faldo Institute and Orange County National offer more than just practice tees and greens. The landing areas on their driving ranges resemble true targets and hazards that are found on courses. Tremendous short-game practice areas help better players fine-tune that key part of their games. But the crowning jewel in Orlando are the courses. From top to bottom, Orlando offers the best quality golf of any destination in the world. Nearly every exit off I-4 leads directly to a memorable golf experience, regardless of which side of Orlando you are on.

4. Some of the Orlando area golf courses have achieved top ratings from various golf publications. Please tell us more about that.

Orange County National, host of the 2003 & 2005 PGA TOUR Q-School Finals, was the recipient of Golf Digest's 4 1/2 Stars for 2000 to 2005. Southern Dunes is rated among the top 100 contemporary courses in America by Golfweek. Orange County National's Panther Lake is rated 4 1/2 stars by Golf Digest. Award-winning Southern Dunes was voted "Top 100 courses in America" by Golfweek 1997 - 2001. Celebration Golf Club was rated 4 1/2 stars and in the top three in Central Florida for service and in the top two for course conditioning by Golf Digest's "Best Places to Play" 2004 - 2005.

Diamondback Golf Club was recently awarded four stars by Golf Digest's "Places To Play". Victoria Hills Golf Cub open end in 2002, and was recently named by Golf Magazine as a "Top 10 You Can Play." Royal St. Cloud Golf Links was rated in the Top 5 Most Underrated Golf Courses in the Orlando area and hosted the 2004 and 2005 British Junior Amateur. Eagle Creek Golf Club was recently named among the Top 10 New Courses since 2000 by Travel & Leisure Magazine.

5. What major golfing events are held in the Orlando area?

The region hosts its share of major competitions – two PGA Tour stops annually (the Bay Hill Invitational in March, hosted by Arnold Palmer; and the Disney Classic at Walt Disney World in October), one LPGA Tour tournament, the PGA Tour Qualifying School Finals, the Buick Scramble National Finals, The Office Depot Father/Son, and a variety of mini tours. A

6. Please tell us about some of the famous golf architects that have put their mark on Orlando golf courses.

The group’s 25 layouts boast the names of a majority of the world’s leading architects – Tom Fazio, Rees and Robert Trent Jones, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Ron Garl, Steve Smyers.

7. What about affordable golf in Orlando?

8. Who are some of the famous golf professionals who have made the Orlando area their home?

Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, Annika Sorenstam, Sergio Garcia, Se Ri Pak, Arnold Palmer, Jim Thorpe, Chris Di Marco, Mark O'Meara, Scott Hoch, Nick Faldo, John Cook, Stuart Appleby, Charles Howell III and dozens of others have planted their roots in Central Florida. There is a reason for that, beyond tax implications.

9. In addition to golf, what else does the Orlando area have to offer?

Let’s face it – no region in the country does adventure as well and with as much diversity as Orlando, the world’s No. 1 vacation destination. Theme parks, theme parks and more theme parks. Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, Kennedy Space Center and others have created the face that smiles upon the vacationing world from Central Florida.

The nightlife and restaurants rival those of any other region in the country. Tourists gather at various pockets around Orlando – Universal City Walk, Pleasure Island and International Drive among them. But if you want a feel for how the locals entertain themselves, take a trip to Winter Park Village on the north side of town, where terrific restaurants and clubs will fill your tummy and your night.

10. What about the weather year-round? What about getting to Orlando?

The weather is conducive to golf year-round. Average high daytime temperatures range from 72 in January to 89 in July. Golf can be played and practiced 365 days a year, many of those days featuring clear blue skies, lazy breezes and cool, comfortable nights.

Another significant reason is the ease of travel. Orlando International Airport welcomes direct flights from most major airports around this country and the world. And it is quite simple to drive to Orlando from in or out of state, thanks to a well-planned series of major highways.

11. What accommodation options do golfers have in Orlando?

12. Please tell us a bit more about the golf vacation packages that are offered in Orlando.

13. Some key golf organizations make Orlando their home, please tell us more about that.

The one and only television network devoted 100% to the sport - The Golf Channel - is based in Orlando. Golfweek, a leading trade publication, moved to Orlando about 11 years ago. Meadowbrook Golf, one of the largest golf course management companies, is located here, as is the industry's leading golf travel company, Golfpac. The industry's only media/ business networking organization, the International Network of Golf, is also based in Orlando.

Thank you, Mike, for providing a great practical overview of Orlando as a first-rate golf destination.

About The Author

Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions (www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the transitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest (http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

"Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons".

The story with photos is published at Stories and Photos (Orlando Regional History Center)

Susanne Pacher sq@travelandtransitions.com

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Weekend Escapes in New Hampshire

Weekend Escapes in New Hampshire
by: Richard Rspad

A weekend escape is a great way to simply catch your breath or perhaps put a spark back into a romance. Here are some ideas for a escaping in New Hampshire.

Weekend Escapes in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a great place for your next short trip. Nestled between the more touristy states of Vermont and Maine, New Hampshire offers the same great New England atmosphere that the other states do, but with a quieter feel. Experience the beauty of autumn or the warm charm of a summer day, or maybe even do some skiing, all available in the Granite State. A weekend escape in New Hampshire can be a fun and romantic experience for any couple.

When planning your escape to New Hampshire, it is a good idea to decide what sort of weather you like. If you would love to see the colorful fall leaves, plan to visit New Hampshire between the middle of September and the end of October before it gets too cold. The White Mountains region of New Hampshire offers visitors mountain views with beautiful streams and lakes to sit by and enjoy nature.

If you are looking for the perfect place to stay, we have just the recommendation. Located in Jackson, the Inn at Ellis River offers couples the ultimate escape weekend in New Hampshire. The Inn at Ellis River was voted one of the “Best in the East” by Inn Traveler magazine, as well as the “Best Mountain Retreat”. This inn, with its 20 gorgeously appointed rooms and one guest cottage, offer couples who are looking for romance a great stay. Many of the rooms have Jacuzzis or hot tubs, as well as fireplaces, making them cozy and perfect for some alone time. A gourmet country breakfast is offered each morning, along with coffee, tea and a view of the beautiful White Mountains.

While here, be sure to enjoy New Hampshire's 100 most scenic miles, either by hiking, biking or simply walking around and taking in the beauty of New Hampshire. In the winter, skiing and snowshoeing is available on the Inn's property and nearby making it an excellent spot for a romantic snow trip. A heated outdoor pool is available for summer trips, and a game room stocked with darts, billiards and other games is a great place to unwind after hiking or skiing.

Choosing a weekend escape in New Hampshire is a great way to rejuvenate and experience the beauty of New England without the expense of staying in the more popular states of Vermont, Maine or Massachusetts. A trip here can be a romantic and meaningful experience for any couple, and it's definitely a destination you'll want to keep returning to year after year.

About The Author
Richard Rspad is with http://www.resortspadestinations.com - information on spa resorts.

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Terrorist attack thwarted, more evidence to support my theory

I have a crazy theory that Muslims are trying to kill Americans by commiting acts of terrorism. I have some eveidence lets take a look and see if we can establish a connection.

Ok here is a list (courtesy wikipedia):

1. 1990:November 5: Assassination of Meir Kahane head of Israel's Koch party and founder of the American vigilante group the Jewish Defense League in a Manhattan, New York hotel lobby by early elements of Al Queda. MUSLIMS
2. 1993:January 25: Mir Aimal Kansi, a Pakistani, fires an AK-47 assault rifle into cars waiting at a stoplight in front of the Central Intelligence Agency headquarters, killing two and injuring three others, see FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. MUSLIMS
3. 1993:February 26: World Trade Center bombing kills six and injures over 1000 people, by coalition of five groups: Jamaat Al-Fuqra'/Gamaat Islamiya/Hamas/Islamic Jihad/National Islamic Front,[79] see FBI Most Wanted Terrorists, FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitives, Ramzi Yousef. MUSLIMS
4. 1993:June: Failed New York City landmark bomb plot. MUSLIMS
5. 1994:March 1: In the Brooklyn Bridge Shooting, Rashid Baz kills a Hasidic seminary student and wounds four on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City in response to the Cave of the Patriarchs massacre.[82] MUSLIMS
6. 1995:March 8: Terrorists in Karachi, Pakistan, armed with automatic rifles, murdered two American consulate employees and wounded a third as they traveled in the consulate shuttle bus. See Rewards for Justice. MUSLIMS
7. 1997:February 24: Ali Abu Kamal opens fire on tourists at an observation deck atop the Empire State Building in New York City, United States, killing a Danish national and wounding visitors from the United States, Argentina, Switzerland and France before turning the gun on himself. A handwritten note carried by the gunman claims this was a punishment attack against the "enemies of Palestine". His widow claimed he became suicidal after losing $300,000 in a business venture. In a 2007 interview with the New York Daily News his daughter said her mothers story was a cover crafted by the Palestinian Authority and that her father wanted to punish the United States for its support of Israel.[85] MUSLIM
8. 1998:August 7: U.S. embassy bombings in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and Nairobi, Kenya, killing 225 people and injuring more than 4,000, by al-Qaeda. MUSLIMS
9. 1999:December 14: Ahmed Ressam is arrested on the United States–Canada border in Port Angeles, Washington; he confessed to planning to bomb the Los Angeles International Airport as part of the 2000 millennium attack plots MUSLIM
10. 2000:The last of the 2000 millennium attack plots fails, as the boat meant to bomb USS The Sullivans sinks. MUSLIMS
11. 2000:October 12: USS Cole bombing kills 17 US sailors and wounds 40 off the port coast of Aden, Yemen, by al-Qaeda, see FBI Most Wanted Terrorists, the Buffalo Six Lackawanna Cell.[98] MUSLIMS
12. 2001:September 11: Attacks killed 2,997 in a series of hijacked airliner crashes into two U.S. landmarks: the World Trade Center in New York City, New York, and The Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. A fourth plane, originally intended to hit an unknown, but likely prominent, Washington, D.C. target, crashes in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, after an apparent revolt against the hijackers by the plane's passengers; by Al-Qaeda. MUSLIMS
13. 2001:December 22: Richard Reid, attempting to destroy American Airlines Flight 63, is subdued by passengers and flight attendants before he could detonate his shoe bomb. MUSLIM
14. 2002:An Egyptian gunman opens fire at an El Al ticket counter in Los Angeles International Airport, killing two Israelis before being killed himself. MUSLIM
15. 2002:October: John Allen Muhammed and Lee Boyd Malvo conduct the Beltway Sniper Attacks, killing ten people in various locations throughout the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area from October 2 until they are arrested on October 24.MUSLIM
16. 2004: August 28: Shahawar Matin Siraj and James Elshafay are arrested for planning to bomb the 34th Street–Herald Square subway station in New York City during the 2004 Republican National Convention. MUSLIM
17. 2006:March 3: Mohammed Reza Taheri-azar, an Iranian-born graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, drives an SUV onto a crowded part of campus, injuring nine. MUSLIM
18. 2006:August 10: A major anti-terrorist operation disrupts an alleged bomb plot targeting multiple airplanes bound for the United States flying through Heathrow Airport, near London, UK. MUSLIM
19. 2006:August 30: An Afghani Muslim hit 19 pedestrians, killing one, with his SUV in the San Francisco Bay area. MUSLIM
20. 2007:May 7: 2007 Fort Dix attack plot Six men inspired by Jihadist videos arrested in the US, in a failed homegrown terrorism plot to kill US soldiers. MUSLIMS
21. TODAY PLOT TO BLOW UP PIPELINE AT JFK AIRPORT IN NY....DEMOCRATS, JUST KIDDING.......MUSLIMS.

OK, so I am like 99% sure the Muslims are out to get us America.

Solution:

My solution is considered to be in the best interest of both political parties (The Republicrats and the Demtards a.k.a. Republicans and Democrats).

Since the democrats insist on living in a dream world, and in said dream world the War against radical Islamists in the Middle East (Iraq to be exact) DOES NOT EXIST....WE ARE JUST IN IRAQ BECAUSE IT IS FUN TO DEPLOY AMERICAS SONS AND DAUGHTERS TO THE MID EAST, AND IF WE LEAVE NOTHING BAD COULD POSSIBLY HAPPEN AT HOME OR ABROUD BASED ON THE MUSLIMS TRACK RECORD SO FAR......GREAT LOGIC DEMOCRATS.

OK, so my solution:

STAY IN IRAQ....KILL MORE RADICAL ISLAMISTS!

I know what you are thinking how does this serve the democrats agenda?

Easy, everyone knows that the main agenda on the democratic docket is Global Warming sooo...

For every Radical Muslim killed we reduced the planets CARBON FOOTPRINT!!!

Genius

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A Walk Through St. Augustine - The Oldest Continuously Inhabited City in the United States

A Walk Through St. Augustine - The Oldest Continuously Inhabited City in the United States
by: Susanne Pacher

On our way home from Orlando, a little more than an hour into our 20+ hour road trip back to Toronto, we stopped in St. Augustine, "the nation's oldest city", just north of Jacksonville - indeed the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States, having been founded by the Spanish in 1565.

St. Augustin's founder, Don Pedro Menendez, came ashore on September 8, 1565, and chose to name the settlement after the patron saint whose feast day coincided with the day of landing. Of course, before the Spanish ever set foot on Florida soil, the Timacuan Indians had already been here and they watched Menendez and the roughly 1500 colonists and soldiers settle here. Over the last few centuries the city experienced governments from different countries, including Spain, Britain, and since 1821, the United States.

The real rise of this community came in the late 1800s when Henry Flagler (1830 to 1913) built two hotels and took over a third as part of the Flagler hotel chain. Flagler was the co-founder of Standard Oil, and although not as well known as some of the other early magnates of capitalism, he was one of the wealthiest individuals of his time. Flagler had a major impact on Florida: he founded the Florida East Coast Railway as a means of transporting guests to and from the north to his hotels in St. Augustine, Palm Beach, and Miami. A honeymoon visit to St. Augustine in 1881 with his second wife inspired Flagler's vision to transform this sleepy town into a winter playground for the rich.

Three of Flagler's former St. Augustine hotels are still in use today: Flagler College (the former Hotel Ponce de Leon), the Lightner Building - St. Augustine's City Hall (the former Alcazar) and Casa Monica, redone as a county courthouse in the 1960s, and reopened in 1990 as the restored Casa Monica Hotel. During the late 19th and early 20th century Flagler also developed a residential neighbourhood called the Model Land Company tract.

Within a few short years Flagler's dream of a resort town for northerners faded and he, and the wealthy northern visitors, moved further south. He continued to develop the Florida East Coast Railroad down the peninsula, into and across the Florida Keys, creating hotels and communities along the way.

St. Augustine is centered around the Plaza de la Constitucion, which anchors the Lightner Museum / City Hall, Casa Monica and Flagler College, three stunningly beautiful structures. Located in the former Alcazar Hotel, the Lightner Museum houses collections of legendary hobbyist and antiques collector Otis Lightner.

St. Augustine has a wealth of other historic and architecturally interesting structures. The most historically significant structure in St. Augustine is the Castillo de San Marcos, built by the Spanish between 1672 and 1695. The 19th century Lighthouse Museum is located in the St. Augustine Lighthouse on Anastasia Island east of town across the Bridge of Lions. St. Augustine also houses the oldest store in town dating to the turn of the last century. Talking about old buildings, St. Augustine is home to the Gonzalez-Alvarez House, dating back to 1727, known as the "Oldest House Complex", a National Historic Landmark.

The Mission of Nombre de Dios is located on the west bank of Matanzas Bay, and it is said to have been the site of the first Catholic Mass in what is today the United States. The Spanish Quarter Village is a living history museum composed of a collection of colonial period houses where guides recreate the dress and lifestyle as seen in 1740.

Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth National Archaeological Park exhibits foundations and artifacts of the first St. Augustine mission and colony. It also houses the Landmark Spring, Explorers Globe and Navigators' Planetarium. St. Augustine also houses the Oldest Drug Store and the nation's Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, built more than 200 years ago while Florida was under Spain's rule.

Unfortunately we did not have a chance to explore St. Augustine in detail, but our brief excursion into this historic city quickly proved what a unique destination St. Augustine really is. As a matter of fact, the city welcomes around 2 million visitors every year who come to discover a unique historic part of America. A settlement with authentic Spanish roots, complete with Castillo and all, is a truly unique sight in the U.S. and it was definitely worth the detour.

About The Author

Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions (www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the transitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest (http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

"Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons".

The story with photos is published at Stories and Photos (Orlando Regional History Center)

Susanne Pacher sq@travelandtransitions.com

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