text:
Details below!
TALES FROM A DIRT ROAD is my second book in under a year. And the book picks up right where my first book left off...right smack dab in the middle of a great story.
To purchase a copy of TALES FROM A DIRT ROAD...click the photo IN THE UPPER RIGHT HAND CORNER of this blog. You know..where it says order the book here??? TALES FROM A DIRT ROAD is not your typical wrestling book. Its a 338 page book of which I wrote every word and it's a book that takes in more than just wrestling. Its a book that has story after story of unheard of events and incidents that 99.9% of wrestling fans have never heard before.
The book covers 30 some odd years, 3 continents, 7 countries, WWF, WCW, TNA, Memphis and Florida promotions, Undertaker, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Vince McMahon, Scott Hall, Iron Sheik, Mr. Wrestling 2, Vince Russo, Abyss, Ron and Don Harris, Dusty Rhodes among others. I also talk about a famous murder case, a suicide, being on a creative staff, going to Mexico, wrestling on small islands in the Caribbean and once meeting the Ku Klux Klan at a wrestling match down south. Order today and if you haven't read my first book, you can also order it too. Its all in the boxes on the right.
If you want a personally autographed copy of the book, you can obtain that for just $35 with FREE SHIPPING!!! Your book will be personally autographed and as an added bonus, you also get two FREE personally autographed photos along with your order. As soon as your payment is confirmed, your order will be packaged and mailed out immediately.
To order a personally autographed copy, submit $35 via PayPal to:
We also accept personal money orders with prior approval. Contact us at the above addy.
We also accept personal money orders with prior approval. Contact us at the above addy.
Last Saturday night marked a GREAT NIGHT in the storied and venerable history of Nashville wrestling events. I was part of a huge card...and one that I predicted had a chance to fill the building. This is what I said last week here on the blog.
As a matter of fact, I think this card has a chance of actually SELLING OUT the FAIRGROUNDS ARENA!!!!
And it did. Great night of action and this card would have been a great card anywhere in the country. Wrestling fans want to see WRESTLING and of course, wrestling with a purpose. The crowd was a LEGITIMATE 1707 FANS PAID...and I personally saw the box office receipts for the event which the proceeds went to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation which do great work for the kids. I personally conducted at least 6 interviews promoting this event including an appearance on Nashville's Channel 4, Channel 5 and Channel 17. And the fans did not leave disappointed. It was a trip back into the PAST but also a TRIP TO THE FUTURE. Wrestling never dies...it just changes form. This should be a way to introduce new stars to the wrestling world. I am presently working to help bring more shows of this type to the area. Stay tuned.
As a matter of fact, I think this card has a chance of actually SELLING OUT the FAIRGROUNDS ARENA!!!!
And it did. Great night of action and this card would have been a great card anywhere in the country. Wrestling fans want to see WRESTLING and of course, wrestling with a purpose. The crowd was a LEGITIMATE 1707 FANS PAID...and I personally saw the box office receipts for the event which the proceeds went to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation which do great work for the kids. I personally conducted at least 6 interviews promoting this event including an appearance on Nashville's Channel 4, Channel 5 and Channel 17. And the fans did not leave disappointed. It was a trip back into the PAST but also a TRIP TO THE FUTURE. Wrestling never dies...it just changes form. This should be a way to introduce new stars to the wrestling world. I am presently working to help bring more shows of this type to the area. Stay tuned.
|This shot taken between the first and second match when the lights were dimmed, show what
this arena looked like years ago. It was a full house with REAL
WRESTLING FANS in attendance. Seriously, the night was a surreal
experience and if someone had told me a couple of months ago that I would work on a card,
IN NASHVILLE that would sell out, I would have not believed them.
Author's note: This is the second and final part to my story about the Junk Yard Dog and Hurrican Hugo. Enjoy it....its 100% TRUE.
|The JUNK YARD DOG in one of
his signature photos...1983
The story today is a story about one of my old friends...Sylvester Ritter who was more commonly known by his wrestling name of the Junk Yard Dog. A little background on Dog..he was from a small town in North Carolina, Wadesboro, which is located about 45 minutes east of Charlotte. Dog played football at a Division ll school, Fayetteville State and actually received an honorable mention on the All American team that year. But he wanted to become a wrestler and he succeeded with his goal.
Dog ended up in the Mid South promotion which consisted of Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas and Oklahoma in the early 80's, which was booked and owned by Bill Watts. Watts was the original creator of the name, THE JUNK YARD DOG and it was here that Watts made the Junk Yard Dog a household name. Dog became legendary for taking on the biggest and baddest villains that the Mid South had to offer such was the Million Dollar Man, Ted Dibiase, Jake the Snake Roberts, Kamala and King Kong Bundy among others. Dog also headlined what was then billed as the SuperCards...at the Louisiana SuperDome in New Orleans and all of those cards did tremendous business at the gate.
|A very young JYD while he was still
in the Mid South territory.
|Here we see JYD being interviewed by the
always loquacious David Crockett on the
set of the WCW show when they
were doing TV on Saturday mornings
on the SuperStation Channel 17
in Atlanta.
Dog started his story by saying when he finished his run in the WWF, he started making weekend tours in Puerto Rico and he was there in September of 1989 when a massive hurricane was bearing down on the island. As Dog explained, this was not just your regular
tropical storm..this was a MONSTER hurricane by the name of:
HUGO is a name that still strikes fear into the residents of Puerto Rico and all the Caribbean. Hugo was a dangerous Category 5 hurricane and folks, a Cat 5 hurricane can't get any bigger. A Category 5 hurricane packs sustained winds in excess of 160 mph and HUGO'S sheer mass was the size of Texas. Plus it was moving slowly over water and not losing any punch. Hurricanes pick up power while over water and the power only subsides when it touches landfall. Hugo was headed on a direct path right into the heart of the island. To compare it to a hurricane that is more familiar in size and deadliness, think KATRINA.
The date was mid September, 1989 which is exactly in the middle of hurricane season in the Caribbean. Dog had come into Puerto Rico just a day or so earlier when it was broadcast that HUGO was headed straight for San Juan. The wrestling office had provided a room for JYD a block off the beach and Dog knew that he sat at the very center of the storm. Dog had wrestled one night and had two more nights to go when he learned that the tour had been cancelled. It was the best thing but Dog told me that he had a bad feeling about all of it. Actually, everything was cancelled...because hurricanes are not a laughing matter in Puertot Rico or anywhere they hit.
|This was what Dog saw when he went to the airport. Hurricanes are
considered a life and death situation in the Carribbean and
everybody knew how serious HUGO was going to be. They
weren't wrong either.
At the airport, there were literally thousands of people all trying to achieve the same thing. Get booked on the next flight out. Trouble was, demand far and away outweight supply. The ticket concourses were so packed and the lines were so long that it would have taken all day just to get up to the counter. Dog said that as soon as he got out of the cab, his cab driver told him that they had just from his dispatcher that the airport would be closing in two hours. His driver informed him that if you didn't already hold a reservation in your hand, you were out of luck. Dog had no choice but to return to his room and wait out the storm.Dog told me that the first stop he made on the way back was the liquor store where he bought two fifths of Jack Daniels and 2 liters of coke. His next stop was at a grocery store which was completely overrun with people. When he went to get water, all the water was COMPLETELY GONE!!! There was no water at all because it was the first item to go. Not to be defeated, Dog did get one gallon of water but he did it by grabbing it out of someone else's shopping cart when they weren't looking.
Dog said almost all the food had been depleted but he did manage to get some little snacks such as crackers and a few cans of tuna. In a hurricane anywhere in the world, there is no telling when the natural order of things will be restored. Dog said, he was all alone...and he knew that it was going to be a long, long night. There were no other American wrestlers on the tour and he didn't speak Spanish.
Dog told me he sat alone in his hotel room that afternoon...saving his water and eating a little of what he had just purchased. There was no going out to eat...everything was locked down tighter than Mick Foley's wallet. The hotel that the wrestling office had provided him with didn't look sturdy or hardy enough to withstand a big storm. He watched the sky get darker and darker as it got later in the day. And gradually, he listened as a light rain started falling and the winds started to pick up. He could see the Carribbean through his window and noticed the palm trees outside the hotel as they started to bend more and more as the wind started becoming stronger. The waves on the beach started crashing in with more force and Dog me that you could feel the pressure in the air drop.
|This was HUGO at the peak of
its intensity. A MONSTER STORM!!
Dog said he had never been so alone in his life...he called his wife and told her what was going on but in the middle of the call...the phone went dead. The storm was closing in on Puerto Rico and all Dog could do was pray and hope that he and the little hotel he was staying at was strong enough to withstand the storm. Then Dog said the wind started really blowing and from his balcony of the hotel, he could see gusts of wind carrying the rain and all the debris it was picking up from the street lights that were still on. There was no traffic..there were no people on the street..no police cars...nothing. It was as deserted as a ghost town Dog said. Finally..at about 10 PM, the power went out and with that, all the lights in San Juan. It was total darkness in Dogs room and on the street.
Dog felt a long night coming on. Dog just didn't know how long.
Finally, the hurricane hit and hurricanes move slowly sometimes as slow as 10 miles per hour and due to Hugo's size, that meant that the storm could possibly have a life span over Puerto Rico of 6 to 8 hours before it lessened. Dog looked at his watch. It was 11:20PM. The lights were out and the hotel had no emergency lights at all. The only light he had, Dog told me, was a bic lighter, a box of matches and a candle. Dog said he didn't know why there was a candle in his room but I told him that was standard fare for rooms in the Caribbean...and not only in Puerto Rico. A candle was in his room for exactly the same reason he was holed up in his room that night. Hurricanes. All hotel rooms in the Virgin Islands, Barbados, Aruba, Antigua, the Bahamas...had the same emergency rations of matches and a candle. I've been in a lot of rooms in the Carribbean and they all had three things in common. Matches, a candle and a Gideon Bible which, if you think about it, could prove very helpful in a Category 5 hurricane.
The slower speed of the hurricane allowed Hugo to punish the island of Puerto Rico with the worst beating of any location along the hurricane's destructive path. At 2 am local time on September 18, 1989, Hugo's eyewall struck Puerto Rico bringing incredibly strong and deadly 140 mph winds.
Dog said time literally crawled by and the winds were deafening as it sounded like the whole island was being blown away. Through the roar of the intense winds, he heard objects outside slamming into other things. As he sat in complete darkness, Dog said he found a spot in the bathroom and put as many walls between him and the hurricane as he could. As the wind pummeled the island, the little hotel was shaking and he said he had never been so scared in his life because the only thing that stood between him and the WRATH OF GOD was a small guest house type structure that wasn't built to withstand a hurricane of this magnitude.
As Dog hunkered down in his bathroom praying for a lessening of the storm, he suddenly heard a huge ripping sound which was very close to where he was. He knew it was part of the hotel he was in and he heard screams..but it was total darkness and he was helpless to do anything. The screaming continued for a few minutes and then stopped but the hurricane didn't.The hurricane continued on and on and on. Dog looked at his watch...1:38AM...2:16AM....3:47AM...Dog said it was the longest night of his life. Finally...at around 5:45AM, Dog heard the winds and rain subsiding. It was 6:15AM when Dog started seeing rays of sunshine starting to break through the window blinds in his room. Then Dog ventured to his window to get his first look at at how much damage Hurricane Hugo had manufactured the night before.
|On the eastern end of Puerto Rico, massive
was done to the infrastructure. Here is
a beachfront dock in Fajardo, PR
that was completely demolished.
Dog told me it looked like a war zone. Trees were down, power lines were down, cars were sitting on top of each other and there was flooding on the streets. Even though everything was in turmoil on the ground, the sky was a brilliant blue color and the day was beginning to look like another beautiful day in Paradise. beautiful. It wasn't until later that Dog learned the severity of the storm.
Damage in Puerto Rico was severe, especially in the eastern part of the island. Agriculture was devastated, the crops of coffee and bananas were completely destroyed and the infrastructure was severely damaged. 12 people died with 30.000 people losing their homes and the damage was estimated at exceeding 1 billion dollars. And those dollars in in 1989 dollars.
Dog also saw how close he came to meeting his end when he found out about that that was completely destroyed. It was only a 100 feet from where Dog had been hovering in his bathroom floor and two floors up. The winds had completely sucked the roof off one end of the building exposing a couple of the hotels room which were on the corner. In the rooms, there had only been a woman and her pet dog. Both of them were missing.
Dog knew that it was time the get the hell outta dodge but he had to wait until the traffic started moving again to grab a cab to the airport. As he grabbed his bags and made it down to the street, he saw hundreds of tourists all hurrying to get off the island. Dog caught the first cab he could signal down and intructed the driver to take him to the San Juan International Airport.
When Dog got there...about 11AM, again, he wasn't the only one with that idea. The airport was packed just as much as it had been the day before. But Dog had seen planes circling the airport from the cab so he knew that at least, air traffic had already been restored.
Street lights were not working because the power was out but the airport was running on emergency power. When Dog arrived at the airport, Dog headed to the USAir counter to grab the first flight he could get and the line stretched out into the street. But he was lucky. He booked himself on a 8PM flight to Charlotte which meant that he would spend all day at the airport but at least, he was getting off that island. Dog said most of the food places at the airports were closed...not that they didn't have food. The reason they were closed was because none of the employees came to work. Dog said he was starving, irritable, hot and crowded. He had eaten all his snack foods that he had gotten the day before and all he had left was a couple of candy bars to last him until he got on the plane.
Dog caught the flight to Charlotte and gave thanks to God that he made it safely. Dog said he slammed down the meal that was supplied to him. For those that can't remember, airlines used to serve meals on the plane..in first class and in coach. Since he hadn't slept, other than short cat naps, he slept the entire way to Charlotte. As he stepped off the plane, he again gave thanks to God for sparing him and vowed to never, ever get caught in another freaking hurricane in his life. Dog told me North Carolina never looked so good!!!!
END OF STORY...well not yet. Keep reading. It gets better.
This would be a great time to end this feel good story..of a man overcoming adversity and triumphing in victory having survived a Category 5 hurricane. It would be great to end it that way...but what's that old saying about Truth Is Stranger Than Fiction? Even though the Dog was through with HUGO...or thought he was, that didn't mean that HUGO was done with him.
Dog made it back to his home in Wadesboro and he was so glad to see his family again. Just the night before, Dog had been in the midst of a MONSTER Category 5 HURRICANE with 150 MPH winds knowing that he was seconds away from death at any moment.
|Hurricane Hugo right before
it hit the US mainland.
|As you can see, Hugo made a direct
path from Puerto Rico to the interior
of the Carolinas and hit JYD's house,
dead on!!!
Hugo moved northwest along the coast of Florida and hit Charleston, SC on September 22nd but it didn't stop there. HUGO moved right up into the interior of the Carolinas and Dog watched in horror as HUGO seemed to be coming directly at him. Dog told me that Hugo was coming on a straight path toward him almost as though the he had personally supplied the hurricane with this mailing address. And sure enough, the next day, Hurricane Hugo hit North Carolina and again the Dog had to hunker down, for a second time, in three days as HUGO came to visit him one more time. Before Hugo moved on, the Dog's house
was damaged to the tune of $10,000.
Dog told me that he had never heard of any person being caught in the same hurricane twice in different locations 1.800 miles apart but somehow, he had managed it. And I'll have to admit, that I had never heard of that before either.
Now that's a helluva story even if I do say it myself.
Post script:
The Junk Yard Dog is no longer with us and its a shame because he was a man with a good heart and a man who contributed greatly to the wrestling profession. I liked and respected him very much as he was always the same guy every time you saw him. Very personable and very friendly. He died on June 2, 1998 in a car accident on Interstate 20 in Mississippi as he was returning from his daughter's high school graduation in North Carolina. The apparent cause was falling asleep at the wheel.
On March 13th, 2004, the Junk Yard Dog was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by the great Ernie "the Cat' Ladd and was represented by his daughters LaToya and Christine.
RIP Mr. Ritter. I honor you today with this story and it was a good one.
And as Paul Harvey used to say..."that is the REST OF THE STORY".
Post script:
The Junk Yard Dog is no longer with us and its a shame because he was a man with a good heart and a man who contributed greatly to the wrestling profession. I liked and respected him very much as he was always the same guy every time you saw him. Very personable and very friendly. He died on June 2, 1998 in a car accident on Interstate 20 in Mississippi as he was returning from his daughter's high school graduation in North Carolina. The apparent cause was falling asleep at the wheel.
On March 13th, 2004, the Junk Yard Dog was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by the great Ernie "the Cat' Ladd and was represented by his daughters LaToya and Christine.
RIP Mr. Ritter. I honor you today with this story and it was a good one.
And as Paul Harvey used to say..."that is the REST OF THE STORY".
Leave comments here on the blog or contact me at:
or on facebook email@example.com
or on twitter firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
LETTER- Let's not eat like family
Where did this lunacy come from that restaurants should treat us as "family?" [August 11 Food: "Keaveny's dream: Belmont welcomes Tavola"]
When I eat with family, I eat for free. When I'm paying, I expect to be treated as a guest. Today's restaurant writers and novice owners show no awareness of that. It's like no one but proletarians exist. The best restaurants get snubbed; the boorish are awash in praise.
In my opinion, 9 in 10 restaurants gushed over in the the Hook serve pathetic, sometimes insane, concoctions from self-styled chefs in humdrum surroundings that probably should be condemned. Week after week, we read glowing, undeserved praise for some untested dump where the chairs rock that opened in a converted outhouse in Belmont, while the area's truly superb restaurants, Tastings and Clifton Inn are two of many example, are ignored.
Can the Hook do better?
Rey Barry

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Enslaved Immigrants Dig Tunnel Across Tijuana Border
For 3 Months a Tijuana Criminal Group Forced Immigrants to Dig a Border Tunnel
March, 25 2013 -- When the Mexican army discovered a tunnel under the U.S.-Mexico border in February, it found 17 Mexican immigrants who were allegedly turned into slave laborers. The group was being held hostage by a Tijuana criminal organization and forced to dig the tunnel for three months.
The immigrants, who were headed to the U.S., are being held in a Tijuana penitentiary while their involvement in the tunnel's construction is investigated, according to Mexican paper El Universal. Victims told the paper that they were handed over to a local criminal known as "Juanito" who kept them in a warehouse just 600 feet from a border checkpoint. He threatened to kill them if anyone left. Most of the immigrants who helped build the tunnel were reportedly fooled into the job by sketchy middlemen who promised assistance in crossing the U.S. border.
"I was in Tijuana looking for someone to cross me over into the United States, and I met a man who said that he had a friend who could do it," a victim who went by the name Jose de Jesus told El Universal. "He dropped me off at a warehouse, and when I entered it they told me that I had to work digging, or else they would kill my family."
It certainly appears that Juanito's threats to kill anyone who attempted to escape the tunnel site were successful. Mexican soldiers found the site in February and none of the immigrants had tried to leave in the two months since construction started. Even when the site was raided by the army, none of the immigrants attempted to flee, according to testimonies from Mexican soldiers.
Immigrants being used as slaves for criminal organizations is a common issue in Mexico. Officials estimate that at least 19,000 immigrants are kidnapped every year by criminal organizations as they attempt to make their way to the U.S. Many are taken for ransom and released when hefty payments are made, but some are also forced to work as domestic servants, prostitutes and even as "mules" who take drugs across the border.
Last year, the Mexican politics website Animal Politico compiled an investigation on these "slaves" of drug trafficking organizations. It suggested that cartels in Mexico were even capturing engineers and forcing them to build underground telecom networks to help cartel members communicate with each other without having their messages intercepted by police.
Alberto Xicoténcatl, who is one of the managers of the Belen Migrants Shelter in the northern Mexican city of Saltillo, says that it is extremely rare for immigrants who are forced into slavery to escape.
Xicoténcatl says that, of the roughly 6,000 migrants his shelter hosted last year, 20 told shelter staff that they had been in situations where they were forced to work for criminal groups.
"It is something that almost none of them want to talk about because they fear repercussions," Xicoténcatl said. "But those who have discussed this situation with us say that they are held in warehouses, or ranches, where dozens of others are held."
Staffers of the Belen Migrants Shelter have been consistently threatened for attempting to protect immigrants on their way to the U.S., with several staff having received death threats over the phone. In December, the priest who runs the Belen shelter had his car broken into as well, and documents with information about the shelter's staff were stolen.
The Belen shelter is now under 24-hour surveillance from state police, and has installed "panic buttons" that connect the shelter directly to municipal authorities.


text:
While showing off at a demonstration at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon, this IS F race car made it clear why you treat a car like this with some respect. The driver hardly touched the gas pedal and he blasted right into a row of stubby concrete bollards.
It looks like not everybody is ready to handle a V8-powered rear-wheel-drive racing car.
Hat tip to: LeadfootYT!


text:
Londonortho necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 130 diseños de 22 diseñadores freelance.
Marcy Orthodontics
Newly graduated orthodontist opening an office in a competitive market. We specialize in braces for children and adults and creating beautiful smiles.
We want to get the message across that our office is a fun and friendly environment (key), with a caring doctor and staff, that provides top quality care.
70-75% children between the age groups of 11-19 years: So it is the mothers of these kids that seek quality treatment to improve the kid's smiles.
20% Adults; More and more adults are seeking braces/invisalign treatment to improve their smiles.
5-15% kids7-10 years
Artistic, contemporary, fun and professional logo. I want a unique design that conveys that we work with smiles.
It would be nice to see the logo in both a neutral and colourful palette.
The stereotypical orthodontic logo would include a happy tooth with a bracket on it. I'm not looking for that.
The logo will be used on business cards, patient brochure, letterhead, envelopes, referral cards, website, outdoor sign, scrubs, and advertisements for the practice.
Please provide logo using vector based graphics.
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


text:
Guest Post: "Ladies: You Can Approach Me When I'm Single Too!" by Leonidas
"Ladies: You Can Approach Me When I'm Single Too!"
by Michael "Leonidas" Childress
Let us not mince words fearless readers! Methinks Cletus the Slack-Jawed Yokel could figure out my intentions from the title of this [my third UML guest post – serving both to entertain and infuriate with equal fervor] supposition on another female-spawned enigma related to the quagmire that is the world of dating and relationships!
This particular bit of Cro-Mag deliciousness was brought to you by a phenomenon observable in the real world, pretty much on a daily basis. The lion's share of my guy friends seem to have experienced this mystical [mythical if you listen to some women] interaction at some point in their lives when they have been in a monogamous relationship. The situation [hypothetical here, but empirical in the real world] is: A guy is with his girlfriend, wife, mistress, etc. in a public place. Said female escort [no pun intended!] leaves to use the powder room. Enter the interloper! A female most likely unfamiliar with either the man or the now-absent female approaches the male like a lioness stalking a wounded gazelle on the Serengeti… Ok. The next bit can differ dependent upon the lioness in question, the particular location of the attack and the level of intoxication of the male target and/or that of the huntress. Let's say that our hypothetical threesome [again, no pun intended] are all in the bar section of a nice restaurant in Washington, D.C. and the libations are flowing on all fronts.
Now that the location of this fictional interlude is settled…depending on certain variables, other than location and alcohol consumption, at this point lots of different things can happen. The aforementioned variables in question pertain to the characteristics of both the female launching the full-court press and the guy on the receiving end of the wanton attention. Of course we must remember that there is a time factor here unless the female headed to powder her nose was actually using the bathroom trip as an excuse to ditch the dude in question or ended up meeting her version of Fabio en route to the Loo… I digress! This is one instance in the real world where the male has total hand [power] to decide the outcome of the interaction with the lady. Will our fearless hero of the story take the moral high ground and send the strumpet packing or will he live up to the douchebag stereotype and get the digits for a future rendezvous or, even worse, will he leave his date post haste and exit stage left with the relationship-threatening harlot?! I'm hoping he sends her packing if it's his wife or girlfriend!
Oh, wait! I forgot. I am not here to discuss what happens after the antagonist of the story approaches our victim! I am much more interested in what spawns the action of approaching the male that is with another female in the first place. Well that and to theorize on why this topic doesn't get more attention. Awwwwww sad face on readers' faces. The thing that people don't want to hear is that there is obviously some psychopathology there! Is this pursuit merely about obtaining the unobtainable [or supposedly unobtainable…]? Or does it have to do with the fact that another woman obviously found something in the guy in question and because she seemingly digs him he must be a good catch? Is this some innate behavior manifesting itself like you seen in the lower echelons of the animal kingdom? Is this something about the inherent desire to create strong offspring? Inquiring minds want to know. How many women successfully lure the guy away from the girl in the bathroom only to lose interest in him after securing him?! I minored in psychology as an undergrad, but the only result of said studies seems to be the more frequent usage of the word "psychobabble". I even took a class entitled "The Psychology of Women" at one point. Luckily the professor was hot because I left feeling more confused than before enrolling in the class. Now my friends…this is not about psychological theory, "…this is…[UML]!" Well given that this is a blog post and not an ask-and-answer session with members of "the fairer sex" I am now going to exert my literary will as dictator of this discourse and simply drop golden nuggets of pure Cro-Mag wisdom on you. Boom! You might need a cigarette and a sandwich afterwards. Feel free to comment with your own pearls of wisdom or retorts in the comment section below. Unlike my previous two blogs for UML this one won't be complete until you guys weigh in. Consider this a democracy for a brief period of time! The operative word being "brief"…
Now to be clear, I am in no way, shape or form here to provide a defense for guys that cheat; however there seems to be some serious carrot dangling [apologies for the phallic allusion] going on out there ladies! Obviously related to the "taken phenomenon" is the fact that many married men seem to think their wedding ring is also a magnet for female attentions. Ohhhhh come now ladies a guy in a committed relationship is one thing, but a married man?! In all seriousness I have always been a huge proponent of the statement that "it takes two to tango". I've witnessed a lot of dudes give no consideration to the relationship status of a woman they approach in a club or bar or whatnot. I think there's a general lack of discipline and self-control amongst men and women when interacting with the opposite sex. A lot of people turn into straight idiots during such interactions in fact. Men and women in monogamous relationships are not heroin! I do suppose there could be some sort of stimulation related to cheating that could contribute to its appeal to so many… This is about where I hit the proverbial wall regarding analysis of the female perspective on this and pretty much any issue… I can speculate until the proverbial cows come home, but I am a dude. Profound…I know.
As a guy with high levels of testosterone I know that the male sex drive can be a harsh master [mistress?]. A stiff breeze can be the impetus of "excitement" on a bad day! Even with all of this testosterone surging in me I still seem to have control of myself enough to not dry hump the leg of every attractive female in my purview. I also don't hit on [known] married or otherwise spoken for females. So I can't even identify with the guys that do that kind of stuff! Females, as we know, are chemically and biologically and anatomically different from men. Duh. I can't even fathom what it's like to be a female although I probably would have had more drinks bought for me in the past. Ahhhhhh enter alcohol! That sexy beast. That perpetual gamechanger! I do know that alcohol can be a catalyst for the sex drive [if not for sex performance!]. With the consumption of libations inhibitions magically melt away and all of a sudden making out with a stranger and table dancing topless doesn't seem so wrong…until the next morning… Ever been to Vegas? Some purport that booze helps reveal your true nature, but I think that is absolute bollocks. Alcohol affects one's physiology. It does some crazy stuff to the nervous system and brain! Of course alcohol can definitely play a significant role in this inappropriate desire to get some taboo lovin', but it is not required to approach a person already in a relationship. What it comes down to is weakness. We all have them. We're all human. Whether there are some other Freudian or Jungian or Sponge Bob-ian explanations for such behavior is a something for someone with a DSM-V on their bookshelf and a nice leather couch in their office to contemplate.
Soooooo initially when I was discussing this recently with [R E D A C T E D] we were kind of like, "Yeaahhhhhh suck it ladies! You gals love dishing it out to us from your ivory towers while you engage in the same behaviors! Booyaahh!" It ended up being "Well we [cowboys and cowgirls] seem to be more alike than we care to admit. Balls." Ultimately we can all approach people that are single [assuming we're single ourselves naturally!] and not worry that they are damaged goods or serial killers or some other nefarious character. Being single should not be some badge of disgrace like some sort of nouveau scarlet letter. As most of us can testify people [of both sexes] date and marry horrible people all the time. That's a whole other blog topic of course.
So here's a novel idea: How's about we all leave the married and taken people be and try to act like the smart monkeys we're purported to be?! It's ok to talk to people of the opposite sex in monogamous relationships obviously. If your intentions are not to do the horizontal mambo with the person you're chatting up have at it! If you're doing bodyshots off of each other within the first few minutes of you need to bail. Go take a cold shower and call your significant other. Or you can join a dating site if you have no "other" to speak of. All that said…remember ladies: if we're both single then it's "game on!" Crack the Jagermeister bottle and let the inhibitions fall!
In Defense of Marriage
Perhaps the word most associated with marriage is 'sacrifice.' When married, one must sacrifice many things in the name of marital bliss – time, money, hobbies, etc. These sacrifices come not in the form of total rejection, but that one cannot think solely of oneself, one must consider how your partner will be affected. Marriage introduces choices. One can choose to spend time with their partner, or one can choose to pursue a hobby. Either way, the choice involves sacrifice. Through these sacrifices, one learns about oneself, more so than they could as an individual because the results of your choices affects another person. Learning to frame choices in the context of how the outcome affects others is a profoundly spiritual concept and one that quickly provides a greater sense of who you are as a person, what you value, and what you can do to improve yourself as a human being. Being single, your choices have much less impact on other people. If you choose to go out with one group of friends instead of another, no big deal. There may be some hurt feelings, but they are usually short-lived and easily forgotten. In marriage, your choices add up, and in order to make a marriage work, one must strive to view their choices in the context of the whole, and not as isolated incidents. Doing so requires one to step outside oneself, to look at oneself from a distance and judge dispassionately your thoughts and reasons behind your decisions. This is about as spiritual an exercise as one can ever hope to practice, and there is no better medium in which to practice it than marriage.
A core tenant of Buddhist philosophy is the idea that life is suffering, and that the only way to free oneself from that suffering is to abandon worldly goods and concepts in favor of a monastic lifestyle devoid of all but the most barren of necessities. Whether this is true of not is beyond my understanding, but one thing I do know is that, in the absence of giving up all your worldly possessions, modern single life, with all the freedoms and choices associated with it, is not an appropriate substitute. Spirituality comes from true challenges, and marriage provides a far better framework within which one can be challenged than being single. Through marriage with a person you love, and who loves you in return, you can both become more spiritual and self-aware than as individuals. Marriage doesn't mean giving up the things you love – it means learning how to continue pursuing the things you love while being aware of the effects those pursuits have on someone with whom you share a deep love, understanding, and desire to make their life more meaningful. This is the true benefit of marriage, and, if properly understood and pursued, can provide a more meaningful path to spiritual awareness than a lifetime of being single.
Man Law #88 – Real Fights Have No Soundtrack
The Call. The Text. Accusations.
If you've ever been in any sort of relationship, you've all been on the receiving end.
A few years ago and a day, thats when it all happened. I was walking. The sun was shining. Birds were chirping and then something in my pocket started to vibrate.
"You have mail."
No, it wasn't AOL. I said a few years ago, not the nineties. (Editorial Note: It was a Facebook message.)
Who knows where or when it started but I knew where it would end.
Some things come out of left field. Like this post. Just something that all of us go through at some point and from my brief time on this Earth seems likely to continue.
For whatever reason, women, or at least some women (and not the ones reading this, of course) know just the time and place to strike where it will hit hardest. From the second they met you, they were scanning for your Achilles' Heel and chances are they knew where it was after a few dates but were keeping it in their back pocket for that moment when they needed it. Just when something good has happened – a birthday, promotion, a new car or apartment – the island is in view and you've been at sea for months, and then the wind stops blowing.
Where do you think you're going, Romeo?
Remember that time you forgot to bring her hot and sour soup? You ROYALLY fucked up a long time ago, and she thinks now is the perfect time to discuss it. Why not? You seem just a bit too happy for her not to be the root cause of it…
A scandalous picture of you and some chic at the bar showed up on Facebook. You didn't give the right response and she's been thinking, stewing, STEAMING over it all this time. Oh, you thought she would forget about all that…
It doesn't matter what you did, she knows you did something.
In the movies, you can always tell when something dramatic is about to happen – the lights darken, the camera pans out, the music gets more intense, and your heart starts to beat faster, but…
Real Fights Have No Soundtrack.
There is no cue or director.There is no script.
All of a sudden, you find yourself in the heart of one. And she's not going to wait for you to remember your next line. If you're like me, you're only thinking one thing:
It's funny, but the right skillfully crafted message can cut deeper than the sharpest object.
I know I've been there. One moment, you're humming along, all your friends seem to like you, boss pats you on the back for a job well done, the dog fixes himself dinner and takes himself out for a walk, and then all hell breaks lose.
One particular time a few years ago is seared into my memory. Tattooed, might be the more appropriate word.
Everything in my life was going up hill. I mean everything.
And then I checked my messages.
I don't know what it is in the female brain that seems to find the perfect moment to cut you down to size. It's not that guys won't start fights. Quite the contrary. But when someone is about to punch you in the face, you usually know you're about to get punched in the face.
But the opposite sex, they know how to knock you out before the bell started the round. DING!
There are no words of advice in this post. If you've read this far, you probably already know that a verbal argument with the woman you're dating will probably only result in one outcome – your loss.
I won't go into details but I found myself on the losing end. She had about a 20 point lead before she asked me to play. The fight had actually started months before when I was looking the other way. A suspicion that she had. And whether the suspicion was warranted or not, did.not. matter. It was my fault.
Some arguments, you're just going to have fight your instinct if you want to keep the relationship going…Even if you win the argument, even if you convince her that she was wrong, what has that really gotten you? See, if Hollywood and Disney misled women into believing these fairy tale Princess tales, they did just as much damage to men by thinking that when you're about to fight, the Rocky music starts playing and you'll have a crowd cheering behind you by the end. But see, when you fight with her, you may have won, but there'll be no-one standing in your corner…
The truth is, you BOTH have to want to work it out and sometimes, nothing you're going to say is going to make any difference. In fact, in my experience, the more I said, the worse the situation became… You two may just have to take a break and let time sort it out. She has to remember ALL the good times she had with you and for what its worth, she has to know that you feel all the pain that you've caused her. There may be a better way of describing this, but these are the words I have at the moment.
"We must hang together or assuredly we shall all hang separately." – Benjamin Franklin
So, Gentlemen, this is one of those post that you just have to reflect on – there are no words of wisdom. Try Yoda. Just hold your ground, don't lose your cool. Throw on the kevlar and keep on chucking. Real fights have no soundtrack, but as cliche as it sounds, anything worth having, is worth fighting for…
This is Ethan Bishop, Over and Out.
As always, your comments welcome.
Man Theory – The Balance Beam Theory
It's been a few months since I've written a Man Law or Man Theory, and TONIGHT, I thought it was time to change ALL that so sit back, relax and enjoy the entry!
For the past few years, I think men everywhere have been aware of the idea that women like to test us. They like to see HOW we handle certain situations and in many ways, they create these situations to see what WE are made of and if we are the right one for them.
I have yet to meet a woman who will come forward and say that they actively test guys. Specifically, they will not tell you, "Hey, this is a test, I want to see how you handle this situation, go run around this play area, I'm going to monitor your behavior and I'll let you know if I like what I see…" It's not even clear if they are AWARE of how this comes across to us or why we feel that way at times. But I know I'm not the first to experience this and men everywhere can collectively sigh, shake their head and say aloud to the computer "ALAS, but 'tis true."
First, it's quite common for the female of the species, whether its primates, birds or fish, to want to know that their man is MAN ENOUGH to protect them. You'll see males everywhere battle for territory, ram their horns, display their feathers, and do their dance in order to attract the attention of the female. It's very natural and after all, if they are pregnant with offspring, they probably won't be running around with the bow and arrow chasing down the kill and they need to feel that their man will provide for them. I know a number of women in the 21st century would like to think they can handle all of this without a man, and there are many of them out there that can, but some, deep down, know that it's in our male nature to want to handle these sorts of things. After all, if they are the brains of the relationship, we are the muscle, or at least that's how it was at one point.
So what is Balance Beam Theory, you ask? Here, I'll tell you.
If you think of every woman as a gymnastics coach, YOU, gentlemen, are on the far side of a 20-30 foot long balance beam. When you see a woman of interest, your job is to make it across this balance beam and she will throw everything at you to see if you can handle all that may occur in a relationship with her. When you step on the beam, you are on display, and you can think of it as a march to the scaffold with her being the final decision point as to whether or not you'll be beheaded even if you make it across. There are people (her friends) who are throwing things at you, rotten eggs and tomatoes, all the dirt that has been dug up on you, combat boots, anything not staked to the ground and within her grasp, trying to actively knock you off balance. You may even make it across, only for the American Idol judges to give you all ones and zeroes, but you have to finish in the first place to know where you stand.
Now women are smart. They are REAL smart. And they talk. So just about every woman out there has about 4-5 men (all on varying length balance beams), probably more, that are actively pursuing her and she knows it. She's not dumb. So the woman is standing on the opposite end of the beam, and she has a whip in her hand. You only have a limited time frame to make it across and if you fall off, she might not let you back on, not if you failed the wrong test since they all have different levels of importance. Some women may value integrity while others value openness and honesty. It's different for everyone.
The funny thing is that just about every guy out there (Editorial Note: every hetero guy…) is on SOME sort of balance beam. Whether he would like to admit it or not, he had to do SOMETHING to prove to her that he wasn't just some average guy on the street. Women don't have the time to fool around with all the guys who are after them, they may make it "easier" for some who have proven it in other ways, but in general, ALL of us have to go through some sort of mental and physical aptitude test. Are you up for the position? Because if not, there are plenty of applicants.
So, as a man, what do you do, what CAN you do? First thing you can do is realize that you aren't going to always make it across. It's not possible. Some of these women need you to not only hold your balance but do flips, jumping jacks, somersaults and they don't care WHAT you do, you aren't going to make it.
Don't worry about them.
What doesn't throw you off, will make you stronger though, and that experience will prepare you for the NEXT woman you cross paths with and this is just as important. She's building you up and you need to appreciate this because if you make it across, in most cases, it will be worth it. She'll feel confident that you are the guy who knows how to deal with all the situational drama that you may come across in a relationship with her and she also knows that you were up for the task. You were man enough and if you make it, good job, you deserve a pat on the back (cause she will probably be angry at you anyway for taking so long.)
Another thing you have to remember while you are up there on display, is to STAY FOCUSED. Hold your ground, maintain your base, and stay steady for ANYTHING that might happen in the moment. Just because you see something on the side that's about to get launched at you doesn't mean you have to jump off to dodge it. Instead, greet it head on, make friends with it, you have to maintain your focus and in this case, it's her. Most of us already know and HAVE what it takes to get across, but we forget in the heat of the moment.
Now, to leave you with something meaningful and something you walk away with if nothing at all from this post, in the words of a famous writer, some know him as the author of the "Song of Ice and Fire" series:
"Fear cuts deeper than swords"- George R.R. Martin
If you remember where you stand, your feet will take you where you need to go…
As always, welcoming comments and criticisms.
This is Ethan Bishop. Over and out.
Man Law #87 – Five Days Together is Two Days Too Many…
K.I.S.S. Keep. It. Short. Stupid. Never spend more than three days together (at first).
::Names and Dates Have been Changed To Protect The Innocent. ::
A few weeks ago, possibly years, or maybe yesterday, I invited someone to stay with me for a few days, lets call her Lena. This wasn't just anyone but someone who I "might" start dating. I say "might" because sometimes you don't know you two dated until you see a Facebook status update stating how some "douchebag" hasn't talked to her in months and by "douchebag" she means you…
Through e-mails and Facebook, we got along great. The attraction was there. A few exchanges of pictures and it was clear…
When we finally decided to meet for the first time, I made the mistake that anyone who was thinking clearly would have seen from the next country over. She lived a short plane flight away and so when I invited her down, I thought "Who knows when the next time we'd see each other would be? 3-5 Days sounds good. What difference could two extra days make?"
A HUGE Difference.
For what its worth, a serious family issue arose the very next day after she arrived. So serious in fact, that Lena was debating leaving that same night. Luckily, everyone turned out ok and everything went alright. No one can control these things but when you barely know the person, this leaves some understandable awkwardness. If it was just a single night out, rescheduling would be the obvious choice, but there was nowhere for either of us to go! And this left us to an area of co-habitation..
When you live with roomates, no matter how great you got along before, they will find a way to piss you off. One person likes the temperature to read TROPICAL while the other prefers it slightly above freezing. (Editorial Note: If the other residents of the household have a year-round fur coat and walk on all fours, you might be able to tell which type you are dealing with.) One person will leave the kitchen light on at night, while another never puts the dishes away since everyone else was unknowingly hired as a maid service when the lease was signed. These aren't things you can REALLY tell about a person until you start living with them…
And then you find out.
So when you start seeing someone, as much as you might like them, make sure you schedule some down time apart. Too much time together can exhaust anyone. The funny thing is – I know this, I knew this, and the second I was face-to-face in that exact same situation, forgot it.
The Unbreakable Man Laws (n) – an online mental reminder list of all the mistakes I never want to make again!
If the two of you connected quickly in one form or another, Its too much and you don't have the history of previous experience to give you the necessary "oomph" that is needed. A lot of women (and some men) will say, "Hey, if he can't remember to put the toilet seat down, maybe he won't remember to show up for the wedding either…NEXT" It sounds funny at first, but guys have been thrown to the curb for much less. (i.e. "He said he was on a diet and he just ordered a cheeseburger. I guess he's not the one." True story).
I'll take it one step further to say that unless you've gotten into a solid argument with the other person (and for one, I don't believe people can have a real relationship if you never argue), don't spend more than three days of uninterrupted time with her. Wait until that first REAL argument. If she has thrown objects at you, DING DING DING, thats an even better indicator that you are ready to go for that fourth day.
With this past instance, because we had gone through several weeks of talking solely through e-mail and Facebook (luckily for me, we both hate the phone), when we finally met in person, I think we became too comfortable. After the third day of spending every waking moment together, you may inadvertently start slipping into behavior of a past relationship and unconsciously start acting in a way that isn't appropriate for whom you are with right now. And that is exactly what happened.
In retrospect, I learned a lot from the experience. Sometimes you have to lose to win. While I have no regrets and despite how things turned out in the end, I had a fantastic time. I pretty much always have a good time. While I made a lot of mistakes with her mostly within the 72 hour mark, I think most of them would have been overlooked had there been some down time and space between us. Will we meet again sometime in the future, no one knows, but I'll be sure not to make this same mistake again. You live, you learn… I'll be sure to take different steps with the next person.
Who knows, maybe I should have shown up at the airport with flowers?
So Gentlemen, next time you invite that lady friend down to stay with you, or if she lives only fifteen minutes away, make sure you don't rush into things and spend too much time together. As much as you want to connect, that time apart is just as important to have, as the time together.
This is a Public Service Announcement from Ethan Bishop.
Making mistakes right around the clock, so you don't have to…
And Lena, if you happen to stumble upon this post many years in the future, know this:
"My fault, my failure, is not in the passions I have, but in my lack of control of them." – Jack Kerouac
Inviting any and all to comment.
Man Law #86 – Kiss Her Like You Mean It!
A friend of mine recently posted a video of her marriage proposal on Facebook – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJEDVUdnPzo. Now, besides the fact that the proposal idea was completely original and unique in that it was tailored to HER, there were a few points that people happened to notice and comment on more so than the proposal itself…
The Kiss.
You've heard it before and you'll hear it again – A kiss tells A LOT about a person. There's plenty of different types of kissers but one thing is for sure. A good kiss should have the other person begging for a second one. She should WANT to continue it. And the only way that I know of doing this, is being absolutely – in the moment – while you kiss her.
So what do I mean by – in the moment.
A good kiss, a good FIRST kiss, is a bit like you and her freezing in time while everyone else in the room melts away *instantly*. You know it's about to get to this moment, when you are kissing her and you have cognitive awareness that there are other people in the room and all of a sudden you just say – " FUCK IT." It really should be "f—k them" because everything else is unimportant. During this moment, the two of you are completely engaged. And this is where you have to make it count.
Kisses must flow.
You and this person need to be fighting over positioning. She is pulling you into her as you are pulling her back into you. She is grabbing your lapels, you are physically moving into her, and this embrace can be likened to the embrace of savages. As this is our most base instinct. (I know this is deep right now but deal with it for a second).
If you are growing squeamish at this point, it's best if you turn back now… In fact, leave your man card at the door, you won't be needing it…
During each moment of the kiss, be aware of the sensitivity and the amount of pressure exerted on the lips. I say this because you need to be aware of what's going on in the moment. If she is standing like a stick figure and passively allowing you to kiss her, chances are, she's not really into it. She doesn't want to turn away but she's honored that you are willing to take a chance at rejection. Usually this turns out to mean one thing.
In 2011, "Boyfriend" is a subjective term. In this case, it refers to any person she is engaged with sexually that would be pissed off if she knew the two of you were swapping saliva. This could be anything from a guy she went on one or two dates with or a guy she is currently engaged to…You can't do anything about him right now, but if you do know she is seeing someone (or feel a ring on her finger, whichever comes first), don't cross the streams and leave this for him to take care of… Moving on…
There is nothing worse than a static kisser.
Your mouth should never just move up and down, up and down, ones(1) and zeroes (0), like a peg on an assembly line. But it should flow into the next iteration of the movement. Think: WAVES. Water. Flowing. Everything should be smooth, graceful, and even. While you should be aware of your mouth, your entire body should be involved. Feel the ground beneath your feet. I'm serious. Are you firm? Leaning in, Leaning out? Get it? A good kiss involves every part of your body from the mouth down to your toes.
Step into her. Grab the small of her back to pull her close. Cup the side of her face in your one hand. Cup the back of her neck. Use BOTH hands to cup her face. Hold it for an instant while you let the moment – sizzle. This is your time. Own it.
A good kiss, should have her reeling back and saying to herself…Wow.
Where did this guy come from?
Now there are a few people who don't believe in public displays of affection and there is certainly a time or place for this…but if there is one thing you need to take away from this Man Law…it's the following…
When it comes to PASSION, it's always the right time…
This is Ethan Bishop.
Over and out.
An Open Letter from Miss Solomon: From Nice to NEXT!
Dear Nice Guys of The World,
Hey there, what's up? I know we haven't spoken in awhile but I feel bad about the way things ended. Once we parted I thought I'd never speak to you again. Still, I couldn't leave you with so many questions, wondering why things didn't work out when they seemed to be going so well.
Things were going well, actually. I didn't mind that you'd call me the second I said I would be home or back from a trip. Thanks to caller id, I never had to answer. Even the senseless texts and your attempts at humor didn't bother me.
The truth is I just wanted you to take some initiative and escape all the fears that had held you back with other women and make one exception for me. I wanted to hear from your own mouth what you thought of me and what you wanted from me.
Don't hate me for saying this but I was testing you. Obviously you didn't pass. I know it brings up questions about what women really want but you have to understand even when you're on a date with one women you're still competing against every other man that wants to date her too.
I wasn't trying to see how much you would let me get away with or how much of your dignity you'd let me take, I only wanted to know if you had a backbone and where exactly was it.
I would've been fine without the five star dining had you offered more interesting and riveting conversation. I would have been content with inexpensive dates had you only thought more creatively. All I wanted was for you to be your own person and have your own thoughts. Oh and for you to stop thinking that if you were a cast member of Entourage, you'd be Vincent Chase.
From the moment we met I could tell that you liked me a lot and while on most occasions it's flattering, I got the impression that you liked me but you didn't know me. It seemed like everything I ever said about anything just went right over your head. For as long as we dated, I doubt you ever even knew my favorite color or my middle name.
Whether or not I was funny you laughed at my jokes, whether or not I was hungry you wanted to take me to dinner. No matter what I said, I always felt that you just weren't listening to who I was. I would always just be a beautiful woman.
You never realized that to me you were not a beautiful man. You were supposed to be the reason why looks don't matter. You were supposed to be the kind of guy who listened and was attentive, able to stimulate my mind with intense conversations and deep debate. Instead you agreed with everything I said.
All you could think about was having sex. You had the look of a thirteen year old seeing porn for the first time and you didn't even realize how many times I'd seen that look before. The minute inexperience was painted all over your face I knew we could never be.
I guess I kept thinking under the shyness and insecurities there would be an exciting, charismatic and interesting guy. You repeatedly found ways to prove me wrong. You abandoned all sincerity and let hormones take you over.
I needed you to see yourself, the way I saw you as a man who was given a chance. For all the times you swore you finished last, or were ignored. I gave you an opportunity to prove everyone wrong. You could've showed me that there was something to nice guys that women were missing out on. You didn't.
You require more patience, more affection, more coaxing and coddling than any other man I've ever dated. Our past has been so full of boring chitchat, bitchassness and awkward kissing that I just don't see how we could ever have a future.
I hope you will learn from this letter and find a way to make yourself either far more interesting or more self-aware. If you see me in the streets, please don't speak.
To Read More from Miss Solomon, check out her blog at: www.thedatingtruth.com and become a fan on Facebook.


text:
Zion National Park is just 19 miles from the Econlodge in Hurricane, Utah. Our location in the downtown area of Hurricane places us within … Read More
Make the Econo Lodge in Hurricane
Make the Econolodge in Hurricane your base of operations as you explore Zion National Park, or take a day trip to Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell … Read More
We are just nine miles from Interstate
We are just nine miles from interstate 15 exits 16 or 27. Whether you are headed north or south we are a convenient and friendly place to … Read More
- Free continental breakfast
- HD Channels with HBO
- Guest Laundry
- Outdoor Heated Pool & Jacuzzi (open Feb. 15 - Oct. 30)
- Group Rates
- Microwave & Fridge
- 40 in. Flat Screen TVs in all rooms
- No Pets allowed
- Check in age, 21 years old
- Children under 17 stay free
- 62 clean & comfortable rooms
- Within walking distance to restaurant
- Middle of downtown with plenty to do
- Closest lodging to High School for Competitions
- Hair dryers & coffee maker in all rooms
We are within 5 minutes drive of Sand Hollow and Quail Creek Reservoirs. We are minutes away from one of the most scenic golf courses in the country – Sky Mountain Golf Course and just a few minutes further to the west is Coral Canyon Golf Course. There are eight other excellent courses in the St. George / Hurricane area and if golf is your game then you've come to the right place. Take a guided ATV Tour on the Hurricane Sand Dunes. Or if you're looking to go hiking in Zion, see our helpful article with hiking tips for amateurs.
In Hurricane we are located adjacent to Hurricane High School and this makes us the premiere location for sports teams visiting for competitions. We are also the largest motel operation in Hurricane and therefore easily able to handle tour motor coaches and other groups. Whatever your reason for visiting the Zion National Park, Hurricane or St. George area, we invite you to stay at the Hurricane Econolodge.


text:
ALEX Jr. Sort and Count
by ALEX Toys
In stock
Buy Online:
Product Description
Two yellow, one blue, five red.' Baby's active mind will be challenged with this fun and sturdy wooden house. Sort & Count's colorful roof of beads help little ones learn colors and simple counting. Six different shaped blocks introduce spatial relationships, colors and designs inspire and cultivate on-going play, from crawling to walking and beyond.
There are no reviews yet.


text:
majdolyan necesitaba un nuevo diseño de página web y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 8 diseños de 3 diseñadores freelance.
I'm an entrepreneur who has a site for many services as follows:
Classifieds website: which contains a lot of categories and sub categories (examples: cars, real estate, mobile, electronics, business, services ..etc.)
Main category is for Jobs ads
Another main category is for Personals ads
Based on the above architecture there is a major category called Online Shop where I sell online different items, people pay online to me then I send it to them (Like a retailer shop)
Second major service in my site:
Hotel reservation system online. What's creative about this site is the ability to display the location of hotels in Google Maps quickly.
The current production site is available for your browsing at:
Arabic site:
English site
Hotels site: (Mainly in Arabic):
The new logo is attached
I'm targeting 18+ of Arab countries, (Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE ..etc.) from both genders.
My plans is to expand to more countries & languages later. Most of the audience are looking for attractive site, with hot colors, and not boring. Also many of them have slow internet connections. I received a lot of times silly questions relate to services that are available but they don't see it.
I have been in business for few years and the major comments I have received from my clients are the following:
- My site design is very boring
- I'm using cold colors
- When I make usability tests, I notice that my clients get lost in my site and they are not able to discover all of it's functionalities. (It's very weak when it comes to user friendliness).
What's I'm looking for ?
- simple site in navigation where users can understand what's is this is all about and can browse it.
- interested design to let people come back frequently.
- fancy colors, icons ..etc. without having a slow upload time
- The site is using a header and header templates which can been seen in all pages. The page in the middle is the one that change.
- I want templates for the major pages that are available in my site.
1. Main page
2. Listing all ads in a category/ subcategory
3. Ad details
4. Add new listing
5. User Main page (After sigining in)
6. Hotels main page
7. The window box which contains the hotel info/images


text:
Flash 8 or later
basic understanding of drawing in Flash
Now let's get started:
Start by opening Flash and creating
a new document. Name it A_Button.
Now you should see a white blank rectangle.
First we have to do the background. We start by changing
the Background color for all our frames by going down
to the bottom of the screen where it says Background
then you hit the dropdown and select a color to be the Background
for the all of the current and future frames. I'll pick blue.
NOTE: This choice can be changed at any time by just picking a different Color.
Next draw a rectangle bottom left with the inside color whatever you want to it to be (I'll pick
green) change the thickness to of the outline to 3. And keep the Outline color Black. The Rectangle
will be your play button.
Next add text into the rectangle the using the Text tool. Color can be whatever you want it to be (i'll use black)
but size should be 37. You should now see something like this:
Right now that is just a rectangle with words in it now we need to give
it the actual Properties of a button. We do this y selecting the Background
the outline and the text all togethor and then right clicking on it.
So click the outline Hold shift down, and while holding shift select the color inside
the rectangle and keep shift held down now select the text. You should now have:
Right Click it and click convert to symbol...
Where it says Symbol 1 wirte My_First_button
and make sure button selected. Then hit Okay.
Note: When you click your rectangle(Now button) it should look like this:
Now insert a blank Key frame and draw some random image in it like this:
Next select and right click on the the button you just made:
And click Actions, then copy and paste this code in there:
on(press){ _root.gotoAndStop(2); }
I will now explain what this code means:
This means if the bottom is pressed do this:
Which should be self explanatory:
Means that that frame is in this scene.
Now test the code by Control in the top right. Then click Test Movie.
I hope you enjoyed this tutorial!


text:
Lawmakers' last-minute action forces IRS to delay filings
The IRS was forced to delay filing because of the fiscal cliff.
The last-minute action from Congress to avoid going over the fiscal cliff will bring some changes to the tax code.
The IRS had no choice but to delay the season in order to get things ready.
So what does this mean for taxpayers?
We'll have to wait a week or more to file while the IRS tests its systems and updates tax codes that were changed by Congress earlier this month.
That delay will also mean we'll have to wait longer to receive our refunds.
"It is exciting, I guess," said Jake Keen, accountant with Keen and Company CPAs. "There's never a dull moment when it comes to taxes."
"It seems anymore the tax code is political football, between the political parties so you never know what to expect. One thing you can always expect is changes," said Keen.
Taxpayers who will need certain forms for residential energy credits, business credits or forms for depreciation of property will have to wait until late-February or March for those forms because of the late legislation and changes that need to be made.


text:
Fine Motor
SciencePreschoolers16 Comments
Fine motor activity with dandelions!
On Mother's Day, we headed outside to pick dandelions at my mom's house and collected them in a basket. Not doing anything in particular with them.
Later that week, we went outside and did the same thing again at home.
Henry thoroughly enjoys picking dandelions.
He gets excited when he finds them. He says they're pretty.
Henry has always loved these yellow flowers.
I think most children do.
Maybe its because they're allowed to pick them at their own free will.
Henry collected the dandelions in a green basket, and about filled it completely!
Once the front yard was free of dandelions, we set out to do something with these weedy flowers.
The basket of dandelions got dumped out on the sidewalk.
The basket was turned over.
The dandelions with stems attached were poked through the wire basket.
And the flowers were hauled with Henry's end loader (of course).
There was one dandelion with an extremely long stem.
This one proved to be tricky.
Henry found the longer stems were harder to thread through the basket.
Once the top of the basket was covered in dandelions, we started on the sides.
Henry didn't find this part as interesting and he thought the dandelion hat was complete.
Though when I picked it up to put it on him, this is what we found:
Henry wouldn't let me set it on his head, he made me wear the hat instead.
(Sorry, no pictures of that!)
Here are a couple other things to do with dandelions:
- Dandelion Cupcakes and Goop by The Imagination Tree (find another version of this at The Chocolate Muffin Tree)
- Paint with Dandelions by little learners lounge
- Make a Dandelion Crown by 4 kids, 2 guinea pigs, one happy family


text:
Ingredients Edit
8 ounces unsalted butter 11 ounces brown rice flour, approximately 2 cups 1 1/4 ounces cornstarch, approximately 1/4 cup 1/2-ounce tapioca flour, approximately 2 tablespoons 1 teaspoon xanthan gum 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 ounces sugar, approximately 1/4 cup 10 ounces light brown sugar, approximately 1 1/4 cups 1 whole egg 1 egg yolk 2 tablespoons whole milk 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
Directions Edit
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Melt the butter in a heavy-bottom medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, pour into the bowl of a stand mixer.
In a medium bowl, sift together the rice flour, cornstarch, tapioca flour, xantham gum, salt and baking soda. Set aside.
Add both of the sugars to the bowl with the butter and using the paddle attachment, cream together on medium speed for 1 minute. Add the whole egg, egg yolk, milk and vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Slowly incorporate the flour mixture until thoroughly combined. Add the chocolate chips and stir to combine.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator until firm, approximately 1 hour. Shape the dough
into 2-ounce balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheets, 6 cookies per sheet. Bake for 14 minutes, rotating the pans after 7 minutes for even baking. Remove from the oven and cool the cookies on the pans for 2 minutes. Move the cookies to a wire rack and cool completely. Store cooked cookies in an airtight container.


text:
Boys Held in Couple's Death in Mo. Had Run Away
GALENA, Mo. (AP) - Officials say two juveniles suspected of killing a couple last week had recently run away from a facility for at-risk boys.
The Springfield News-Leader reports that 70-year-old Paul Brooks and his wife, 69-year-old Margaret Brooks, were found dead Thursday night at a home south of Table Rock Lake. The Baldwin, Mich., couple were seasonal residents of the home in the Trace Hollow area in southwest Missouri.
Authorities found their bodies after receiving a call from a man who reported he was holding two suspicious young men at gunpoint.
Lives Under Construction Ranch says it reported to authorities that the boys had run away. But Stone County Sheriff Doug Rader said police had no indication from the report that the boys were dangerous.
The juveniles remain in custody.


text:
Georgia Bulldogs UGA Heavy Duty Vinyl Car Mats
- Protect your vehicle's flooring while showing your team pride with car mats by Fanmats.
- 100% vinyl construction with non-skid backing ensures a rugged and safe product.
- Universal fit makes it ideal for cars, trucks, SUVs, and RVs.
- The officially licensed design in true team colors are permanently molded for longevity.
- Heavy Duty Construction
- Made in the USA
- Officially Licensed Colors and Logos
- Universal Fit
- Ribs scrape and clean the bottoms of shoes and deep pockets catch and hold dirt and water


text:
Re-do search in this area
Klondike Meeting Facility
Augusta, MO
Park/Garden, Event Center, Community Center, Beach, Outdoor, Modern
Starting from $2,580 to $4,916 for 50 guests
Nestled in Missouri's wine country, Klondike Park is 250 acres of scenic beauty. The park boasts breathtaking views of the Missouri River, a large lake, and a lookout bluff that provides picturesque views of the Missouri River Valley. The 3-story Klondike Meeting Facility at Klondike Park is availa...
The Lodge of Four Seasons
Lake Ozark, MO
Ocean/Waterfront View, Hotel/Resort, Beach, Outdoor
Starting from $5,552 to $7,594 for 50 guests
The Lodge of Four Season located in Lake Ozark is a wedding destination with style and ease. Enjoy an outdoor ceremony in this picturesque environment. The lakeside patio, beach, and lawns are all at your disposal when choosing the perfect ceremony site. After exchanging sweet vows enjoy a cocktail ...
Illinois Beach Resort
Zion, IL
Park/Garden, Hotel/Resort, Event Center, Ocean/Waterfront View, Beach, Ballrooms
Starting from $5,369 to $8,808 for 50 guests
If you ever dreamed of an outdoor wedding, set against a beautiful background, then do we have a scene for you! Lake Michigan provides a spectacular and romantic look for your special day. With a professional Chef to cater your event with the expert attention it deserves, your family and friends wil...
Showing other similar Wedding Venues Venues in Missouri
Westborough Country Club
St. Louis, MO
Golf Course, Private Club, Park/Garden, Outdoor
Starting from $2,102 to $4,704 for 50 guests
Westborough Country Club was established in 1948 and today carries the tradition of being one of the finest in St. Louis for private golf and country club amenities. Featuring an exquisitely designed facility, the Club offers an ideal location for your wedding day. Planning and executing every detai...
O'Day Lodge
O'Fallon, MO
Park/Garden, Event Center, Ballrooms, Outdoor, Modern
Starting from $2,701 to $3,776 for 50 guests
Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a large soiree of up to 250 guests, O'Day Lodge can easily accommodate your big day! Conveniently located just one mile south of I-64 in O'Day Park, O'Day Lodge offers a state-of-the-art banquet facility in a tranquil park setting surrounded by lush, ...
Hendri's Events
Saint Louis, MO
Park/Garden, Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Historic/Landmark Building, Event Center, Ballrooms, Modern
Starting from $1,868 to $3,312 for 50 guests
Hendri's Events offers a gorgeous venue for sophisticated and classy couples. The dim lighting sets the tone for an intimate night. Be prepared to create wonderful memories lasting a lifetime! Designed by an established restaurant architect, Hendri's Events gives off both warmth and a sense of luxur...
Orlando's Event Center - South County
St. Louis, MO
Event Center
Starting from $4,321 to $7,084 for 100 guests
Tie the knot at Orlando's Event Center's South County location. Situated just ten minutes from downtown St. Louis, Missouri, this gorgeous event center offers elegance and luxury at an affordable price. It boasts three beautiful event spaces with varying capacities: the Canova Ballroom, the Venus Ba...
Shiloh Springs Golf Club
Platte City, MO
Golf Course, Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Private Club, Outdoor
Starting from $1,989 to $6,407 for 50 guests
Nestled in beautiful Platte County, the Shiloh Springs Golf Club offers a truly breathtaking setting for your big day. Perched atop the gentle rolling hills of Platte County. This upscale club offers a beautiful location whether you're saying your "I do's" or dancing the night away in the clubhouse'...
Orlando's Event Center - Maryland Height...
Maryland Heights, MO
Outdoor, Event Center
Starting from $4,578 to $7,598 for 100 guests
Orlando's Event Center's Maryland Heights location is a spectacular place to marry the love of your life. This stylish event center offers you the ability to have a beautiful ceremony and luxurious reception in one convenient location at a price that won't break the bank. With four elegantly appoint...
Hollywood Casino St. Louis
Maryland Heights, MO
Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Hotel/Resort, Event Center, Ballrooms
Starting from $4,713 to $5,950 for 50 guests
Hollywood Casino St. Louis offers over 8,000 square feet of traditional and nontraditional event spaces and a number of complimentary enhancements to upgrade your wedding event. Whether you are hosting an event at 99 Hops House, Final Cut or the Conference Center, the unique spaces can accommodate e...
Holiday Inn SW - Route 66
St. Louis, MO
Bed & Breakfast/Inn
Starting from $3,269 to $4,714 for 50 guests
With a recent multi-million dollar renovation, Holiday Inn SW - Route 66 is now ready to host the ballroom wedding of your dreams! With over 18,000 square feet of space, you will be able to craft and celebrate your dream wedding with your friends and family in the various spaces that the venue offer...
Ararat Events Center
Kansas City, MO
Outdoor, Event Center
Starting from $2,598 to $5,600 for 50 guests
The Ararat Club's experienced staff will assist in planning and hosting to ensure your wedding event is a sophisticated and special occasion. Banquet Room A has 2,873 square foot of space for reception use. It has a 300 square foot stage with full lighting and audio visual facilities. A full service...
Tower Grove Park
St. Louis, MO
Park/Garden, Event Center, Outdoor
Starting from $3,585 to $5,875 for 50 guests
Celebrate love at Tower Grove Park. With multiple location options, this venue has a site that will suit your needs and make your dreams come true. Make your ceremony unforgettable at Tower Grove Park's historic Ruins! Built in 1872, the Music Stand was a favorite place of Henry Shaw. Surrounded by ...
Holiday Inn Airport West
Earth City, MO
Outdoor, Hotel/Resort
Starting from $3,910 to $7,610 for 50 guests
Located in Earth City, the Holiday Inn Airport West offers easy access to Downtown St. Louis, Historic St. Charles with its exciting shopping and entertaining district, St. Louis-Lambert International Airport, and many of the other vibrant areas the Gateway City has to offer. You and your guests wil...
Four Seas
St. Louis, MO
Event Center, Ballrooms
Starting from $5,600 to $7,710 for 100 guests
Situated just west of St. Louis' beloved Soulard neighborhood, the Four Seas offers a classically elegant space that is ideal for hosting your sophisticated wedding reception! Managing to be affordable without skimping on refinery, the Four Seas offers several timelessly beautiful banquet spaces tha...
The Aladdin Hotel
Kansas City, MO
Vintage/Rustic, Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Historic/Landmark Building, Hotel/Resort, City/Skyline View...
Starting from $3,404 to $7,148 for 50 guests
Tucked away in historic downtown Kansas City, the beautifully restored Aladdin Hotel offers the perfect combination of modern design and vintage style. This beautifully restored Art Deco hotel is only steps away from some of the city's finest attractions, providing the ideal location for both locals...
Quail Ridge Lodge
Wentzville, MO
Vintage/Rustic, Hotel/Resort, Event Center, Park/Garden, Outdoor
Starting from $3,288 to $5,462 for 50 guests
Nestled in Wentzville, Quail Ridge Park is 250 acres of rolling pastures, wooded hillsides, and rich bottom land near Peruque Creek. The single-floor Quail Ridge Lodge at Quail Park is available for rental. The beautifully-appointed facility is ideal for fun and fabulous receptions of up to 180 gues...
319 Event Center
Springfield, MO
Outdoor, Event Center
Starting from $3,111 to $8,181 for 50 guests
Nestled in the heart of downtown Springfield, 319 Event Center offers a full suite of singular spaces for hosting your big day. Originally constructed in the late 1800's, the building has undergone many changes but still retains its architectural charm. Imagine saying your "I do's" on the open patio...
Morgan Street Brewery
St. Louis, MO
Historic/Landmark Building, Event Center
Starting from $1,819 to $5,506 for 50 guests
Founded in 1995, Morgan Street Brewery is one of the oldest buildings in historic Laclede's Landing. Morgan Street Brewery's facility is full of rich history and old character that is the perfect unique venue for your next private party or reception. Led by their Executive chef, Trisha Donze, the st...
St. Charles Convention Center
St Charles, MO
Event Center, Ballrooms
Starting from $14,249 to $16,027 for 50 guests
In the heart of St. Charles, Missouri, you will find the Saint Charles Convention Center as an exclusive St Louis facility specializing in crafting the perfect wedding day tailored to you! From intimate gatherings to grand soirees, it easily accommodates celebrations of all sizes with its versatile ...
District 9 Machinists Hall
Bridgeton, MO
Event Center
Starting from $1,358 to $3,714 for 50 guests
Tucked away in the city of Missouri in Montana, the District 9 Machinists Hall offers an affordable and versatile setting for your big day. Originally established in 1902, District 9 has set a tradition of unity and fairness in the machinist trade. Today, the District 9 Machinists Hall not only prov...
Swope Memorial in Swope Park
Kansas City, MO
Starting from $363 to $837 for 50 guests
This memorial designed by artist Charles Keck in the early twentieth century evokes the atmosphere of ancient Greece, perfect for stately weddings or historic themed weddings. Swope Park is built on a hill and the Swope memorial overlooks the lagoon and entire park. The memorial is a U-shaped colonn...
Liberty Community Center
Liberty, MO
Community Center
Starting from $2,046 to $4,031 for 50 guests
Liberty Parks and Recreation department offers a diverse array of recreational, cultural, sporting and older adult programs and activities for the entire community. The Liberty Community Center is an ideal location to celebrate your big day. Your family and friends will enjoy the more than 500 acres...
Holiday Inn South County Center
St. Louis, MO
Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Hotel/Resort, Ballrooms
Starting from $4,456 to $8,887 for 50 guests
Whether you're dreaming of an intimate ceremony or a big production, your wedding should be as unforgettable as you are. Holiday Inn can assist you every step of the way - from finding the perfect location to booking the rooms. Conveniently nestled on the edge of South St. Louis at the intersection ...
Shrine Of The Holy Spirit
Branson, MO
Church/Temple, Outdoor
Starting from $200 to $200 for 50 guests
The Shrine Of The Holy Spirit is a monument to the Lord and is a spirit filled location that makes for a great setting to host a spiritual and elegant wedding. The hope of the Shrine Of The Holy Spirit is that all who are in the holy space will be moved by the breathtaking architecture and the part ...
The Jewel Box
St. Louis, MO
Park/Garden, Mountain, Outdoor
Starting from $4,610 to $8,885 for 50 guests
A true gem in Forest Park, Jewel Box is a newly renovated architectural beauty with a art-deco ambiance that sets a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding. With its vertical glass walls and soaring ceilings, it lets in a flood of sunlight that illuminates your festivities as you exchange your vows, ...
OOVVDA Winery
Springfield, MO
Winery/Vineyard/Brewery, Outdoor
Starting from $893 to $3,407 for 50 guests
OOVVDA is the only premier winery in Springfield, MO. Family owned and operated, you can be sure to receive that special care and attention to your celebration. The vast grounds and vineyard surrounded by lush greenery are perfect for your guests to wander around. The venue also provides bbq grills...
Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark
St. Louis, MO
Hotel/Resort, City/Skyline View
Starting from $20,325 to $29,590 for 50 guests
Celebrate your big day in style at Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark hotel. Located in downtown St. Louis, this venue boasts 40,000 sq. ft. of event space. Trust their experienced onsite wedding team to guide you through every stage of preparation and find fantastic wedding menu packages to suit all ...
Mount Pleasant Estates
Augusta, MO
Winery/Vineyard/Brewery, Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Park/Garden, Ballrooms, Vintage/Rustic, Outdoor
Starting from $3,828 to $7,102 for 50 guests
Celebrate the most romantic day of your life at the picturesque Mount Pleasant Estates. This stunning winery boasts breathtaking views of the Missouri River Valley and surrounding scenic landscape; there is no shortage of beautiful spots in which to share an unforgettable "first look" or pose for go...
Affare Restaurant and Courtyard
Kansas City, MO
Outdoor, Banquet Hall/Restaurant
Starting from $2,228 to $3,788 for 50 guests
Enjoy local fresh cuisine at Affäre: an upscale restaurant that offers a modern German dining experience in Kansas City, Missouri. Gather your family and friends to celebrate the happiest day of your life in one of the restaurant's stunning private dining spaces. Its intimate private dining room can...
La Bella Casa
Carrollton, MO
Private Estate, Event Center, Outdoor
Starting from $2,826 to $4,138 for 50 guests
Dating back to 1912, and newly restored to its former grandeur, La Bella Casa, is a premier events estate, featuring both an elegant manor and a well-manicured garden. Whether you are looking to establish your own family history at an indoor or outdoor venue, we know you will love La Bella Casa. The...
The Ramsay Event Center
Joplin, MO
Event Center
Starting from $1,460 to $4,415 for 50 guests
The Ramsay Event Center operates in a 4,000 square foot event center in the historic Ramsay building, constructed in 1901. The Ramsay Building is a three story structure located at the corner of 6th and Main in beautiful downtown Joplin, Missouri. The space is ideal for your wedding event. With smal...
World's Fair Pavilion
St. Louis, MO
Outdoor, Historic/Landmark Building, Event Center
Starting from $4,023 to $7,242 for 50 guests
Combine the whimsical elements of an outdoor wedding with a romantic indoor celebration at World's Fair Pavilion! This open air shelter sits atop Government Hill, offering unparalleled views of Forest Park. Built in 1909, this historic building features 5,500 square foot of event space that can seat...
Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel
St. Louis, MO
Hotel/Resort, Ballrooms
Starting from $15,713 to $21,626 for 50 guests
Traditional doesn't have to be stuffy or boring. At Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel, a spectacularly elegant ballroom awaits to help your wedding feel like a scene right out of a fairytale. Various spaces, all of equal beauty and sophistication, await to set the perfect stage for your big day. The Cr...
Kansas City Airport Marriott
Kansas City, MO
Ocean/Waterfront View, Historic/Landmark Building, Hotel/Resort, Ballrooms, Outdoor
Starting from $6,088 to $8,698 for 50 guests
The NEWLY RENOVATED Marriott KCI provides the perfect back drop for your special day. Our lakeside Pavilion features an outdoor ceremony location overlooking the lake. The Pavilion reception venue can hold up to 180 people for your reception, or the Grand Ballroom can seat up to 300 of your closes...


text:
Currently Shopping by
- Brand: Charleston Forge Uttermost Ashley Furniture
- Style: Remove This Item Mission / Arts & Crafts
Dining Tables
- Round & Oval Dining Tables
- Rectangular Dining Tables
- Extension Dining Tables
- Leg Dining Tables
- Pedestal Dining Tables
- Trestle Dining Tables
- Dining Table Bases
- Counter Height Dining Tables
- Bar & Pub Tables
- Cafe Tables
- Bar Height Tables
Signature Design by Ashley Timber and Tanning Tamilo Rectangular Dining Room Extension Table
AY-D714-45Limited Availability$669.00Shown in Grayish Brown.
Dining Tables are the focal point of your dining decor and with a wide array of styles to choose from at Carolina Rustica, you will surely find the perfect dining table, cafe table, or breakfast table for your home. Your dining table helps to set the tone for your dining room, a stately and elegant table will create an austere environment perfect for upscale formal dining, a fun whimsical design will set your guests at ease and allow for an informal free-flowing conversation that will make everyone feel at home. You will also find bistro tables, extension tables, and pedestal tables, as well as bases only. We offer a beautiful selection of table top options and iron finish choices, with styles that coordinate between manufacturers. Please don't hesitate to call 1-800-205-7819 with any questions on all of our Dining Table products.


text:
WTF!? OK HB 3393 Should STAND!
What the HELL are these "educators" thinking in Oklahoma!? Seriously! "Educators" seems misplaced in this context. They're ADMINISTRATORS. And, what they're thinking is, "Oops! People are taking their kids (and consequently OUR money/funding) out of our reach." THAT is exactly what they're thinking. Glad you finally chose to wake the hell up. When presented with an option… we chose a better one. Surprise!
I'm taking a break from my normally technical blogging to begin the VOCAL OPPOSITION to any and all school districts who oppose The Nicole Henry Scholarship law (OK HB 3393). The Oklahoma Legislature passed a fantastic bill for special needs children (one of my children qualifies) and now the Jenks, Bixby, Broken Arrow and (perhaps my Tulsa) school systems are opposing it. WTF people!!! This further proves your interest isn't aligned with the best interest of the children. Your interest is in alignment with the use of funds that are no longer in your control. And, you're hiding behind constitutionality. I call BS!
Yes, I'm mad. I'm mad that you are suggesting the STATE doesn't have the authority to appropriate funds as they see fit. It's Law folks. It's in the books. Get used to it. Can laws be overturned. Sure. Go ahead and challenge it. We'll sue the school systems for DAMAGES.
You'll find parents and private school administrators have cast a vote of no confidence in YOUR abilities to serve our childrens' needs adequately.
You'll also find these same parents are going to create a MASSIVE noise like none you've ever encountered. You're about to pound sand in the worst possible way. You thought you'd make a grab for the cookie jar. Instead, you're causing REAL damage to households and businesses across Oklahoma for which we WILL seek damages. Your net loss folks. Best wake up now.
You'll also find your place is to EDUCATE our special needs children and not look at them as a way to obtain an inordinate amount of money per head to fund your special projects that have little to nothing to do with our special needs children. Go ahead and deny this happens. You'll find yourself challenged on hundreds of fronts to PROVE every dollar was directed appropriately.
What you should be doing instead is barking at the State Legislature to STOP appropriating your highway and Lottery dollars and putting them toward other projects. That IS your's. Go fight for it and stop picking on special needs children and the law that helps THEM.
Our children are NOT pawns and you're about to get a big can of whoop ass poured all over you. You've let the hornets out of the nest and you're not getting them back in.Explore posts in the same categories: Apple
Tags: education, hb3393, Nicole Henry Scholarship, oklahomaYou can comment below, or link to this permanent URL from your own site.


text:
"Dr. Amy Shah is a rockstar doctor who truly understands that the future of health care is a blend of eastern and western medicine."
"Dr. Shah's anti-inflammatory and hormone advice was integral in helping me find my comfortable body weight and size. Her advice was logical and easy to implement immediately; I refer to Dr. Shah whenever I have questions about discovering my body's 'homeostasis' in a natural way."
"Dr. Amy Shah is fabulous...I was unbelievably miserable, and now I feel I have my life back. Thank you so much, Dr. Shah. You are a lifesaver!"
How It Works
You'll have unlimited access to hours of video content, all from the comfort of your own home. Lifetime access to the program allows you to establish an expert level of understanding, at your own pace.
You'll take what you've learned in the lectures and put it into practice. With effective tactics and recommendations from your instructor, you'll deepen your knowledge, lead a healthier lifestyle, and feel like a better version of yourself.
Interactive discussion boards allow you to discuss what's on your mind with instructors and fellow students. Get your questions answered, while joining a community of other wellness enthusiasts.
Find your happiest, healthiest self.
Our classes are designed to give you a simple and effective educational experience so you can focus on "you". Whether you're at home or on the go, you'll have access to world-class experts and a thriving community of wellness enthusiasts - all here to help you along the way.
Classes FAQS
All you need is WiFi or a direct internet connection - no downloads or DVDs required! All classes stream directly to the device of your choosing.
Whenever you're ready! There's no set start (or end) date here.
Learn at your own pace. Some classes have a suggested timeline, but you are free to adjust to fit your own schedule.
Yes! Watch as much as you'd like, and for as long as you'd like. Once you've completed the class, it's yours to keep!
No problem - let us know and we will work with you personally to find another class that suits you better.
We really hope you love it! Unfortunately, we're not able to offer refunds for the programs. If you're on the fence, we strongly recommend that you watch the preview videos to get a sense of what the class is like before you buy.
Email us at email@example.com. We're happy to answer all of your questions.


text:
I've always admired the work, style and smarts of Kaboom, which helps communities nationwide to build and restore playgrounds. So I was thrilled to interview a few Kaboom staffers — including Jim Hunn, Vice President, Mass Action — in my discovery process for a client's web strategy.
Engagement is the success factor for every program, including the project I'm working on, and a primary topic of my work. Jim and colleagues outlined several key motivators for community participation in the work they do, ones they've identified through getting to know what's important to these communities. Knowing that, and what's top of mind for the network you need to engage is the prerequisite to relevance, which drives engagement.