Bear Attack: How to Avoid One

A bear attack is an extremely rare thing. And when I say bear, I mean the black bear of North America.

Bears are very intelligent animals, incredible fighters, and extremely strong. And for the most part, they want to avoid encounters with humans.

There are a few simple ways to avoid a bear attack, and the best way is to simply avoid an encounter altogether.

Make lots of noise when you're in bear territory. Talk loudly. Clap your hands occasionally. Travel in groups. Bears have excellent hearing, will appreciate the warning of your presence, and will avoid you. This is especially helpful if the bear has cubs, which she will naturally want to protect. You don't want to surprise a bear, especially is she has cubs!

Keep food out of reach. Bears love food, and can literally smell food miles away. If you're camping, make sure to keep food, trash, and waste far from your tents.

Never store food inside your tent. Bears will go anywhere for food, even your tent, with you in it. That's why it's best to store your food suspended, or in bear-proof containers.

Avoid traveling at dawn and dusk. This is when bears are most active. Try to hike, bike, and run during different parts of the day.

If you encounter a bear...

* Talk to the bear so it knows you are around.
* Hold your hands over your head, talk to it, slowly back away.
* If very close, give the bear room to escape. Chances are it will want to avoid you.
* Never run. This may trigger a chase, and bears can run over 30 mph. People can only run about 8 mph.
* If the bear charges, stand your ground. It may be a bluff attack.

If a bear attack occurs...

* Drop to a fetal position
* Cover your head and neck with your hands
* Play dead

This should make it clear to the bear that you are not a threat. If the bear attack continues with biting, fight back and make as much noise as you can as a last resort.

Common sense is the best way to avoid a bear attack. Be aware of your surroundings, and let the bears know you are around.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Bear-Attack--How-to-Avoid-One/558717
Outdoor adventure

Para Ordnance Number One Competition Pistol

Para Ordnance pistols are considered the competitive shooter's secret weapon, due to the 1911-style pistol being enhanced with high capacity magazines. This one innovation makes Para Ordnance firearms some of the best selling 1911-style pistols on the market. Para Ordnance firearms are quickly becoming one of the most popular firearms in competition shooting sports like IDPA. The solid design of these firearms quickly made waves in the 1911 shooting community, which came as no shock, with their handful of improvements to the century old design.

Although Para Ordnance firearms are produced in Canada, they quickly became adopted by a number of U.S. law enforcement agencies for the added protection of having more ammunition available to first responders. Para Ordnance has produced the power extractor, which is credited with the ability to fly through one thousand rounds in around ten minutes. Now Para Ordnance Arms is not the most talked about 1911 pistol in the world, but to the tactical shooter it's become a must-have.

Para Ordnance has become one of the most innovative pistol producers on the market, going as far as releasing the new Para Ordnance Tactical Target Rifle. The Para Tactical Target Rifle has AR-15 rifle fans waiting to get their hands on one of the most innovative designs to come to the half-century-old design of AR-15 firearms. This new rifle is going to be an interesting feat of Para Ordnance's namesake, due to the half dozen other innovations on the AR15 platform all set for 2009. This battle for the top performing AR15 rifle is sure to be one of the more interesting firearms competitions in the industry from the last few decades.

The ever-feared race gun is generally a pistol that is designed to eliminate the competition and is a favorite modification of the Para Ordnance long slide pistols. It allows users to hand load lighter charges, ensuring both less recoil and no competition from factory pistol shooters. Despite many people criticizing these types of competitive shooters, they get results. In fact these shooters have, in many areas, cornered the competition, making other shooters emulate the very tactic they profess to despise. But like any other sport, the innovations are spread around until there are a fair amount of users to make it an everyday occurrence, rather than a display of pure dedication.

Para Ordnance firearms are here to stay and poised to give Americans another great import from our all-but-forgotten neighbor to the north. I would recommend a Para Ordnance firearm to any of my clients or acquaintances. After my many years of shooting, I think these relative newcomers take competitive shooting to the next level without missing a beat. Despite the bulky price of many Para Ordnances, these firearms really are a prime example of getting what you pay for, especially when considering the lack of quality from some of the lower priced competitors. So in closing I would highly recommend any of the Para Ordnance pistols for anybody looking to smash their competition for IDPA or one of the many other popular firearms related sports.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Para-Ordnance-Number-One-Competition-Pistol/558232
Cruises journal

Buying Florida Themepark Tickets: A Worthwhile Expenditure

The perfect place to spend time after sunset in Downtown Disney is Pleasure Island. This is known as the oasis of fun for adults. Pleasure Island presents various clubs which can easily suite one's temperament. In day time the place is occupied by the shoppers and customers. You can say it's a shopper's paradise of Downtown Disney. Night life of Pleasure Island is awe-inspiring and it can be seen as a party town full of lights and music at night.

Pleasure Island Tickets will entitle you to move around the area but to enter into the clubs you must be 21 years or more. Mannequins Dance Palace is the prime attraction where art light system and revolving floor is available. BET Sound Stage Club is also another dance club where R&B and hip-hop music is played. Enjoy dancing with your partners or friends on this huge dancing floor. The unique feature that separates this club from other dance clubs is the arrangements of Caribbean style finger foods are served outside.

The music of 70's and 80's in Rock N Roll Beach Club and 8Trax attracts the visitors who wish to shake their body with the rhythm of such music. Motion club also plays an important role to enhance the entertainment among the mass.

The Comedy Warehouse is the 30-minute's interactive comedy show which involves the audience right from the beginning. These shows are not repeated to ignore boring. And it's the nice place to burst into hilarious laughter. Moreover, the Adventure Club is also another place of interest in Pleasure Island.

Adventureland Tickets will allow you to see the attractions like Jungle Cruise, Indiana Jones Adventure, Tarzan's Tree House, Enchanted Tiki Room, etc. There are fine array for dinning and shopping.

Florida Themepark Tickets are the ultimate way for entertainment in Florida, the expenses you make on them will be counted worthwhile. So, get ready to have the experience of world's most wonderful adventures in the theme parks of Florida.

Now buying Florida Themepark Tickets is just one click away. Last minute offers on Pleasure Island Tickets andAdventureland Tickets!

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Buying-Florida-Themepark-Tickets--A-Worthwhile-Expenditure/555174
Air Travel Online

Family Camping 5 Things You Must Know For Choosing A Camping Tent

One question I often get from people asking me for advice on family camping is how to choose a good camping tent. With so many different types of tents available out there, even an experienced camper can get easily perplexed by the bewildering variety of tents to choose from. Here are some essential tips to consider when choosing your family camping tent.

1. The Size of Your Tent

First and foremost, when choosing a tent you must know how many persons you will need the tent to cater for. You do not want your whole family cramping inside a tent where there is barely enough space for everyone to sleep comfortably. Tents are normally advertised as two, four, six persons and so on. Believe me, when the tent label says two persons, they meant exactly that. Do not try to stuff your gear together in it. If you need to store your gear in the tent, then consider choosing a larger tent size. Also, you'll want to choose a tent with height that is tall enough for you to stand.

2. Location of Your Campsite

You'll need to determine the potential weather conditions at where you are going to camp. Different weather can have different effects on the tents. Windy areas require tents with sturdy poles, stakes and anchor ropes. For rainy spots, choose a tent with a completely waterproof rain fly covering as much as possible. The rain fly will also provide shade for tent in sunny locations. Look for tents with large screened windows on opposite sides of the tent which provides air ventilation in case of heat.

3. Quick and Easy Tent Set Up

Choose a camp that is easy to set up. Tents basically come in four shapes: Umbrella, A-frame, geodesic or "dome" and wall. The umbrella is the most commonly used family camping tent, as it has plenty of standing room, large windows and a rain fly over the top. Some stores are happy to demo the tent setup in store. If not, try setting it up at home. If it's not quick or easy, look for another tent.

4. Tent Material and Poles

For more durable tent, find one which has a good fabric. Most tents are made out of nylon. Coated nylon is used for waterproofing. Better tents use thicker fabric and tougher polyester rainflies. Poles are also important in determining a tent's stability. Fiberglass poles are better for durability while aluminium poles are light but strong. You should also test the zippers to ensure they can open and close freely.

5. Budget for Your Tent

You should know how much you are willing to spend for your tent. In general, higher priced tents are made with stronger fabric, stronger poles, and stronger stitching that can last for many years. However, not everyone needs this strength and durability. If you are just starting out in your family camping adventures, you might want to stick with the least expensive tents. Pick a price range you are comfortable with and stick with it until you find a tent that meets all of your needs - in terms of size, style and price.

Your camping tent is not only your shelter against the elements, but also your sanctuary for spending quality time with your family. Have a great family camping trip.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Family-Camping---5-Things-You-Must-Know-For-Choosing-A-Camping-Tent/552233
Travel Destinations

Outdoor Camping Equipments

Outdoor camping has gained much popularity over years to have a change from your day today busy life. Some days out away from hectic schedules provide much excitement and recreation options than any other holiday plan. If you plan to have an outdoor camping this season then try finding the best of camping equipment to carry with for the utmost comfortable camping experience.

Outdoor camping equipment accessories come in the shape of camping tents,
camping stoves, camping clothing, hiking boots, utensils, chairs, tables etc. Since the camping places chosen are varied so are the camping accessories that are required for particular needs. Some people like to camp in the plains, some in the mountain areas, some in fields and some in woods. This means that the camping equipment required will depend on the location you have chosen to camp in.

To enjoy the fun and excitement completely, it's important to carry camping stuff that you will require during your camp stay. There are some hikers and campers who love to camp and discover the most extreme parts of the world. Thus the camping requirements differ from person to person.

So before starting for any camping outdoor buy the things that you will require. To find the best camping equipment its better to find a cheap camping equipment dealer and order the stuff you want to carry along. The light weight tents, portable camping stoves, handy weightless chairs, disposable utensils, sleeping bags, hiking boots, light fabric weightless clothes and other camping accessories can be bought online at t he most discount rates. It is good to carry camping equipment that is too light to so as to give you much freedom while trekking and hiking.

Many types of camping equipment are not cheap to buy and can be afforded only when you have a large budget. Thus you should make a list of items that you cannot do without while camping. Depending upon how often you go for camping, renting camping equipment is a good option. Otherwise if you are a camping freak then having a stock of your own camping gear is worth. Have a great camping experience this season by keeping all your camping requirements toned up.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Outdoor-Camping-Equipments/553697
Airport information

Oztent: Camping Made Easy and Comfortable

If you are among those people who are frustrated with the kind of tent designs in the market, then Oztent will take your frustrations away.

Invented by Joe Viglione in the Mid 1980's, Oztent is the perfect solution for those who hate the tents currently on the market. Oztent is definitely easy to set-up. Actually one can even set it up in just 30 seconds compared to other tents in the market which can take several minutes to pitch.

Oztent is carefully designed to minimize the time and effort in pitching and packing away a tent. With Oztent, you won't end up losing ropes or poles because everything is already attached to the frame of the tent. You simply unfold the tent to erect the poles and get the ropes in the internal pockets.

With a patented internal hinged aluminum frame, erection and packing away will never be a problem. The frame is attached to the canvas and does not need to be assembled or disassembled. You just have to unfold Oztent for effortless erection and then fold it if you already want to pack it away-Oztent is that simple.

In addition to Oztent's simplicity, it is also functional for those who own a four wheel drive, a camper van, or trailer. Imagine driving all day, tired & hot, the last thing you want to do is fiddle with a tent for half an hour or more. Oztent takes that stress away. You could even drive until night fall and erect it without hassles in less than 30 seconds even in the dark.

Being outdoors and feeling the warmth of nature really help us grow as a person. Camping, more than anything, promotes the appreciation for nature and simplicity. It is also a perfect opportunity for family bonding and sleeping under the stars through Oztent.

Though there are already many pop out tents out there, Oztent beats it all. Oztent pioneered pop out tents and has been in operation since 1993. When it comes to perfect and hassle free tents, the only expert that can help you is Oztent-always the first, always the number one.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Oztent--Camping-Made-Easy-and-Comfortable/553054
Travel Destinations Blog

Hot Walkers for the Holidays!

It seems as though everywhere you look nowadays, everyone is getting breast augmentations, and I must admit, I have been feeling really left out! After a year of tossing around the idea, three and a half weeks ago I finally had mine done! Therefore, I haven't been able to work out for which seems like an eternity! This weekend was gorgeous here in central Florida! I finally was able to get out and start walking!

With that being said, no matter what I wear now, I must admit...I've turned a few heads as I'm sure many others who were out exercising in America did as well. There is a great path known as the Pinellas Trail in my area. It's 34 miles long! It crosses through the good and the bad areas, but it's still one big trail no matter how you look at it as I'm sure many of the others in America are.

As I'm telling you this story, October happens to be National Crime Prevention Month. When you are out walking, jogging, roller blading, or biking, your safety may not be the first thing on your mind. Who the heck wants to carry something when they're working out anyway? Unfortunately, there have been far too many people who thought the same way, and are now either dead or have a lifetime of regret. Especially with the economy being as bad as it is now, crime is at the highest rate it's ever been! I carry a very unique item with me. They're called "Hot Walkers".

They are one pound walking weights that have built-in 10% Pepper Spray! They have elastic hand straps and foam covered hand grips for support and comfort, and they even have a storage compartment for keys and money! The pepper spray canister is replaceable and comes with FREE replacement pepper spray.

I'm telling you, these are a GREAT gift idea for your loved ones as well as the holidays are quickly approaching. Be sure to grab them now while it's fresh on your mind. You'll be glad you did!

Yours in Safety,

Regina Jacques

Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Hot-Walkers-for-the-Holidays-/554340
Travel Spain Barcelona

Africa in depth: A closer look on a diverse land

Africa, the second largest of the Earth's seven continents, covers up to 22 percent of the world's total land mass. It comprises of 54 countries with 800 million people speaking an estimated 1000 dialects. It is a land of diverse culture and wildlife. Mostly untouched by humans, its is a land of sunny weather all year round perfect for fun-filled, unique and unforgettable family getaway. Activities such as bush treasure hunts, whale viewing, and exceptional night drive to study wildlife behaviors, horse-back riding and immersion in local cultures would ensure a captivating experience for kids and parents alike. African family safari is a great way to unite entertainment and education; a fantastic way to spend quality time with loved ones; and an excellent way to forget all your worries.

An expedition in Africa, gives you a variety of options, one is the famous African family safari. But that is just tip of the ice berg as there are a lot of exhilarating and enjoyable activities in Africa. Each country in the continent has something refreshing and distinct to offer.

Egypt boasts of magnificent pyramids, temples and statues that tickle the imagination of travelers about ancient Egypt. These wonders are the most popular trademark of the said country.

Tanzania is home to the awe-inspiring Mt Kilimanjaro, the tropical beaches paradise of Zanzibar and the varied wildlife of Serengeti plains.

Want a mixture of urban delight and Africa's best safaris? Then Kenya is your destination! Here, awesome wild animals such as elephants, lions, and tigers roam in their natural habitat. Even forests, plains and deserts are all within reach.

Ghana, famous for its hospitality, is a great destination for neophyte adventurers out on a profound African escapade. Affordable food and isolated villages are abundant for pleasant stops, while Dixcove and Busua offer unique beachside exploration.

History brings to us Ethiopia, the land never colonized by foreigners. It offers great sights of the Riff Valley Lakes, the Blue Nile and Simien Mountain National Park. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers since it is where baboons and over 50 species of birds wander.

Tunisia offers multitude tourist sites-some of them are the Roman ruins, French-colonial architecture; yet its best destination is the Sahara Desert. In contrast to the dry and hot Sahara desert, Tunisia is also home to beautiful oak trees which are perfect for nature walks.

Seychelles, a small island country located in the hearth of the Indian Ocean, offers tropical delight all year round. Here you can find sugar-like white beaches leading to array shades of blue waters and magnificent coral reefs, where surfing and snorkeling are a must.

Diamond mines and the Kalahari Desert are the best features that made of Botswana most popular. Tourist can also observe gigantic elephant herds roving about Chobe National Park and travel around the depths of Gchibaba caverns.

The best destination for contemporary luxuries with an African taste is Benin. It offers tourists night spots and restaurants in de Dantokpa, alongside Voodoo Potion Shops.

Africa has boundless wonders to offer the world. Some wonders are yet to be explored. So the next time you take notice of the continent of Africa think of all the superb sights set for you and your family. Widen your views and never again should you limit your thoughts to just African family safari as the only likely activity for a group, but instead think about the fair, cottony sand and turquoise beaches of Seychelles; or the rare animals indigenous to Africa; or prehistoric ruins of Romans in Tunisia.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Africa-in-depth--A-closer-look-on-a-diverse-land/554314
Travel Cruises Online

Snorkeling Florida - Prepare To Try Something Different!

Every year thousands of tourists hit the Florida resort beaches - mostly to laze in the sun and enjoy the many activities to be sampled across the State.

However, while most of us have seen snorkel equipment for sale in Beach stores, snorkeling tends to be written off as the domain of pre-teens or kids, with snorkel masks and equipment often regarded as toys.

How wrong that view is! There is a whole underwater paradise awaiting explorers of all ages when they vacation in Florida and the trick is to prepare before you get down here!

Don't buy a beach store snorkel outfit, but instead, source the best equipment you can afford on the many online web-stores that supply this great leisure pursuit. It's a good idea though to check sizes before purchasing online. Snorkeling isn't going to cost a fortune - this isn't scuba! When you're buying your equipment, size does matter. The face mask needs to fit your face snugly and be air-tight. Any gaps will mean water will get in.

Similarly fins or flippers need to be snug fitting but not tight. It's easy to develop cramps when fins are too tight, and cramps are something you do not want to encourage in an ocean environment.

Having selected your equipment you need to start to relax in the water and let the snorkel do what it's meant to do. Learning to relax inside the face mask is something you can even practice in the bath - before hitting those Florida beaches! You know you're relaxing when you stop manically biting the mouthpiece!

If you can, get to a nearby beach and do some floats, face down. Before you know it you'll be snorkeling like a pro! Watch your fin technique - the correct way is to kick using your hips, with the fins submerged. Sometimes your snorkel will fill up. If it does, give it a quick puff of breath, to expel the water.

Florida is a playground for snorkelers and if you prepare properly, you'll soon be ready to sample the delightful shallows of the John Pennekamp Coral Reef in Key Largo. At Fort Walton Beach on the Florida Panhandle, the water is really clear and the sea life comes close to the shore - perfect for your new found hobby....

Ray Mack offers www.Sunsoaked-Florida-Resorts.com as an information resource on life across the Florida Resorts. Visit for tips to enhance your experience. Check out the full overview.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Snorkeling-Florida---Prepare-To-Try-Something-Different-/545507
Cruise plaining

Snorkeling in South Africa The world in one snorkel

South Africa is a practical demonstration of the word "diversity" on all levels. From a floral perspective, South Africa is home to semi-deserts, forests, and grassland plains. On a cultural level, South Africa is a marriage of backgrounds, ethnic groups and languages.

South Africa's southernmost tip is also where two oceans meet - the mighty Indian and Atlantic - a union between hot and cold currents - leading to a rich diversity of marine life. Along 3000 kilometers of alternating sandy and rocky coastline, some of the best beaches in the world can be found.

Despite the fact that South Africa is well south of the coral belt, the warm Mozambique current along the east coast has led to Africa's most southerly coral reefs. The effect is great scuba and snorkeling in a somewhat cooler clime than the unbearable heat found along the equatorial regions of Africa. The rainy season here is in the summer, and it is mostly thunderstorms in the afternoon.

Further down the east coast, towards Cape Town in the south, the climate changes from tropical to Mediterranean, with wet winters and hot, dry summers. Here the water is cooler, and the underwater scenery changes from tropical coral to beautiful forests of kelp.

The biggest plus of a holiday in South Africa is that sheer number of things to do - not only inside, but also out of the water. The family members who are not "into" snorkeling can drive off to a local game reserve and catch the big five, or investigate the rich floral and breathtaking geographic landscape around.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Snorkeling-in-South-Africa---The-world-in-one-snorkel/544807
Air Travel

The Splendor of England: Royalty, Giant Clocks and the Best Golf Course Resorts

Golf may have been invented in neighboring Scotland, but England's history is rich with its affection of the game of golf, even reportedly enjoyed by Queen Elizabeth I herself. And who knows? Perhaps it was somewhere on the back nine that Shakespeare got the idea for Romeo and Juliet. It was ships of travelers and adventurers from England that brought their love of tea, those weird Pilgrim hats, and possibly golf to the shores of America. Fortunately for Jack Nicklaus and Babe Ruth, golf stuck and cricket did not.

English Elegance from Beginning to Eighteen

If you want to be encompassed by superlative lodging and some of the most lush and serene scenery in England, then the Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel & Country Club is definitely the golf course resort for you. This charming and ravishing resort is considered one of the top picks for golfers, and anyone who enjoys posh surroundings in the United Kingdom and around the world.

The rooms and suites are top-of-line in furnishings, amenities, and d?r. If you get the urge to be indulged and spoiled, make an appointment at the golf course resort's excellent spa for a massage or a cleansing facial treatment. Body wraps and body scrubs are also available. Once your body is cleansed and relaxed, a visit to the premium fitness facility should be your next stop.

There are two very splendid golf courses to choose from during your stay at the Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel & Country Club ; the Arden Course is the largest of the two and considered the championship golf course (used for competitions like the British Masters), while the Aylesford Course is a favorite of many of the resort's guests. A driving range and golfing lessons are available for anyone who needs to brush up on their game, or just wants a little extra practice at the first-class Golf Academy.

In between getting your fill of challenging and enjoyable games of golf, take a dip in the luxurious indoor pool and whirlpool or grab your racquet and get in a few sets of tennis. There are hiking and biking trails also on the grounds of the Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel & Country Club for those wanting some fresh air. If the shopping bug bites, catch a ride into any of several nearby shopping centers and boutique clusters.

You can find more details about this splendid golf course resort at the Putt.com web site, as well as contact information and travel deals that may give you and even better reason to smile.

Putt.com Janna Lutz has been an author and accomplished freelance writer since her first children's book was published in 2001. She has worked as a ghost writer on more than a few books, and is now working on two book projects of her own.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/The-Splendor-of-England--Royalty--Giant-Clocks-and-the-Best-Golf-Course-Resorts/545982
Cheap cruises

Austin Cool Place Westcave Preserve

Westcave Preserve is a great place to tour on weekends. Westcave is the remains of a cave that had the ceiling collapse tens of thousands of years ago. Water falls from a creek into a huge grotto containing a pool of water around 25 feet deep. Lush ferns and moss cover areas fed by the creek.

Tours run only on weekends. A guide will take a group of people along a wooded trail with a detour to the observation platform high above the Pedernales River. Along the way, our guide did a great job of educating us about plant and animal life in the area as well as the geology. As the group continued down the trail, we started dropping down through boulders and cliffs.

As we dropped in elevation, we were under a huge canopy of trees. With cliffs on both sides of the small valley and water running through it, the vegetation made its own climate. There is a lot more moisture that is trapped under the trees. The combination of moisture and shade made the area cooler.

As we continued to hike into the little valley, we were warned not to stray off the trail. The LCRA, which operates Westcave Preserve, wants to maintain the area to keep it as natural as possible. Another thing about staying on the path was that we could avoid poison ivy.

Continuing on, we saw huge cypress trees, the age of many having been estimated at 300 to 600 years old. Various forms of fern were all over the place where there was water. Water dripped down from the cliffs on the left and we could see ferns growing on the sides of the cliffs from the constant supply of water.

The huge grotto at the end of the canyon is amazing. I'll let the photos speak to that. The cave is small, but part of it is alive. We could see water dripping from the ceiling forming stalactites and soda straws. Where the constantly dripping water hit the floor of the cave, we saw stalagmites forming. In the cave there is also some flowstone forming.

To get to Westcave Preserve, take Highway 71 past 620 and turn left on Hamilton Pool Road. Take that past the turn for Hamilton Pool and then slow down a lot. The road has a series of hairpin turns that take you down to the one lane bridge that crosses the Pedernales River. After crossing the river, look for the signs on the right.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Austin-Cool-Place-Westcave-Preserve/545979
Boats accessories

Bear Spray, Who Knew?

I was standing on my back patio this morning letting my dog out, and I noticed a much cooler comfortable breeze which is very welcome to us living here in Florida. It made my mind wander off, and before I knew it I was having flashbacks of hiking through the vast Alaskan wilderness with my friend Barb when I went up there to visit.

It's funny how I look back at things like this that I've done in my life, and realize how naive and vulnerable I really was. We were out there completely unarmed! We could have been mauled by a bear or trampled by a threatened mommy moose for goodness sake! I count myself very lucky that all I have are fond memories.

There was just a show running on a cable channel a week or two ago that I caught as I was getting ready to fall asleep. It was about these families in Pennsylvania that were concerned about bears getting braver and coming into their yards! These families were worried about their children playing in their own back yard only to be threatened by a bear!

They then showed these men hiking in the woods. They said that they kept pepper spray on them and used it on the bears! I was thinking...well I'll be! Here I am now, watching this show with a ton of actual FDA approved, manufactured cans of "Bear Spray" in my warehouse supply, and these guys are out in the wilderness with little pepper sprays on them doing a special on national television! If they only knew they could have this brilliant product with them, they'd be much better off! It's environmentally safe, and doesn't contain flammable or ozone depleting substances. The formula is scientifically proven superior, and endorsed by the Alaska Science & Technology Foundation. The range is approximately 15-20 feet. There's another type that is a powerful magnum fogger that sprays up to 30 feet!

The Sierra Club wants the Forest Service to require everyone who enters a national forest in grizzly bear country to carry bear spray. Spokeswoman Heidi Godwin said in a news release, "The proper use of bear repellent pepper spray will reduce human injuries caused by bears, reduce the number of grizzly bears killed in self defense, and help promote the recovery and survival of the grizzly bear."

With all this said, if you are planning on enjoying the gorgeous fall scenery and weather by taking a little hiking or camping trip, or if you may live in an area where there may be bears around your property...I'm letting you know about this great self defense product that you shouldn't be without! Get some today for your peace of mind, and remember that the holidays are quickly approaching. What better unique yet important gift to give a loved one!

Yours in Safety,

Regina Jacques

Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Bear-Spray--Who-Knew-/549787
Outdoor adventure

Family Camping Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Camping As Your Family Vacation

Thinking of taking your family for a vacation? Instead of going for expensive vacation packages and burn a hole in your pocket, why not bring your whole family for a great camping trip. Family camping is not only more affordable than a complete stay in a resort, it offers enjoyment that packaged vacations can't even come close to.

The 5 reasons below will provide you with some of the great benefits that family camping can bring:

1. It's educational

The kids will learn about nature and wildlife as well as about learning about national monuments and state parks. Kids also learn other skills from camping like independence, self-reliance, wilderness skills and first aid.

2. It's active

Obesity is a growing epidemic among children. Instead of taking your kids to a theme park or taking them on a vacation where they will just sit around most of them time taking them camping will be encouraging them to swim, hike, and do other outdoor activities.

3. It's a way to get great quality time

When you're off on a family camping trip you will have lots of quality time to spend with your spouse and your kids because it will just be the family in a quiet, beautiful outdoor environment. No TV, videogames, movies, or other distractions will keep you from focusing on your family or keep them from focusing on you. For families where both parents work and are busy all the time it's a wonderful way to reconnect with your kids.

4. It's cheap

Most camping vacations cost a lot less than traditional vacations. Camping in state parks or other historical areas often costs less than $100 for a week's worth of camping. You will need to spend money on gear, but later in the book we'll look at ways you can cut the costs of buying camping gear.

The biggest expenses that you will have will be food and gas. Eating meals that you cook yourself with groceries you bring with you will be much cheaper than eating in a restaurant three times a day like you would on a traditional vacation, and gas will probably be cheaper than what you would spend on airfare for the whole family.

5. It's something everyone in the family can enjoy

Wouldn't it be nice to be able to relax and enjoy yourself without having to listen to one child complain that he or she wants to go to the pool while another cries bitterly because you won't buy them a new boat/sweater/ toy or trinket and the other just sits in the corner with a sullen look and kicks the bed repeatedly?

A camping vacation is a real vacation for the whole family because there is always something fun and active to do for people who want to do something active and that leaves plenty of time for the people that want to do nothing (usually the parents) to sit and enjoy the quiet stillness of nature.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Family-Camping---Top-5-Reasons-Why-You-Should-Choose-Camping-As-Your-Family-Vacation/547837
Outdoor Adventures

Alabama Gulf Coast offers action-packed adventures

There's one in every crowd: The thrill-seeker. The daredevil. The person willing to push himself - or herself - one step further than everyone else.

Leisurely hours on the beach, dolphin cruises and hours of eating, shopping and relaxing hold no interest for these adventurous types.

That's no problem when a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast is in the works. Adventures can be found by land, by sea and by air, all by visiting the local tourism website.

By land, check out one of the amusement parks in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. There are bumper cars to help work off some energy, go-carts to fill that "need for speed" and, at The Track on Gulf Shores Parkway, there's the Skycoaster to satisfy the true daredevil. The Skycoaster simulates skydiving as brave souls strap themselves into a harness and free-fall 110 feet at speeds reaching up to 70 miles per hour.

If that's not enough to get your heart pounding, visit the Gulf Coast Zoo -- "The Little Zoo That Could" -- to see and potentially interact with hundreds of species. Or, make the short trek to Alligator Alley, where more than 150 alligators can be seen in natural habitats. Check out "Captain Crunch," a 13-foot-long gator that holds the world record for bite strength, and "Big T," the largest alligator in captivity. For the truly brave, there are even opportunities to feed the gators.

(This is a good place for a reminder: These alligators are in a controlled habitat, and visitors' interaction is monitored by trained professionals. Never, ever approach, feed or attempt to interact with an alligator in the wild.)

Once you've checked out what there is to do on land, it's time to check out your aquatic options - and they are legion. You can opt for above-the-surface thrills such as personal watercraft rides, sailing or kayaking, or you can visit Waterville USA, a 20-acre amusement park. With waterslides named "Black Widow," "Screamin' Demon" and "Triple Dog Dare," thrill-seekers are sure to find something to make them gasp, squeal and pant.

Diving excursions can take you under the blue Gulf waters to see amazing vistas.

And finally, there's air. Several companies offer parasailing excursions, where visitors can glide above the waves and sand and take in the sights from hundreds of feet in the air.

If there's an adventurer in your group, check out www.thebeachiscalling.org.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Alabama-Gulf-Coast-offers-action-packed-adventures/544252
Outdoor adventure

A Guide to Tuscany Food and Drink

A little known fact about Tuscan cuisine is that the French learned how to cook from their Tuscan counterparts when it was imported by Catherine de' Medici into the court of Henry II. The Tuscan style of cooking is richly flavoured and wholesome. Here is a guide to the Tuscan food and drink.

The extreme simplicity of Tuscan cuisine is its strongest strength, as the flavours that emerge during the cooking process are vibrant and pure. Seasoning and sauces are used sparingly, mostly relying on staples like wine and olive oil. Tuscan olive oil is considered to be one of the best in the world, and there are a number of gradients available. The gradients are directly pertinent to acidity, and the acidity is gauged based upon the number of olives that are bruised before the pressing takes place.

Truffles also are extraordinarily popular in the Tuscan cuisine, and these elusive delicacies are all the more coveted because of their very scarcity. Most chefs would pay exorbitant amounts to get truffles before the wild pigs manage to locate them. There are two main kinds, black and white, and while both are rare, white truffles are near impossible to find; however Tuscany is fortunate to have quite a few areas where these grow in profusion.

The standard Italian meal is like a choreographed dance, where there are certain steps, and it is best not to vary from the set pattern. The first round is the appetizer, known as the antipasto. The first course, or the primo piatto, consists of either rice or pasta, and the second course, secondo piatto, comprises of meat and fish. A dessert or dolce is next, followed by a cup of espresso and a glass of grappa.

Italian wines are extremely sought after worldwide, and a true connoisseur of wines will appreciate the exquisite flavours that emerge from this region. A favourite with food is sparkling wine, known as spumante. One of the most popular is known as the Asti. Wine is considered much a part and parcel of the meal, and mostly decisions are limited to white or red. House wines are usually excellent, and only really special occasions call for something out of the ordinary.

Chianti is the quintessential Tuscan wine; it is smooth and versatile, producing a universally popular flavour. Another very famous variety of Tuscan wine is the Brunello di Montalcino, a heavy full-bodied wine that is best complimented with red meat.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/A-Guide-to-Tuscany-Food-and-Drink/544201
Travel Cruises Online

Finding a Holster for the Ruger SR9

Introduced by Ruger in October 2007, the SR9 was Ruger's first attempt at a striker fired pistol. It was designed for civilian carry, self defense, and law enforcement use. With this striker fired design, the SR9 has a pre-set trigger similar to a Glock, where the striker is partially cocked during the reloading cycle, and then fully cocked when the trigger is pulled. Like the popular Ruger P90 series, the SR9 features a fiberglass reinforced frame that is very rigid and resists the flex that usually occurs as the weapon is fired. The SR9 has a steel slide that is available in a brushed or black finish.

A new feature for Ruger, the SR9 has a removable and interchangeable backstrap system that allows the shooter to adjust the size of the grip. This model also features a picatinny rail for mounting lasers and flashlights, along with an ambidextrous manual safety, loaded chamber indicator and striker indicator.

Like many Ruger pistols, the SR9 has a magazine disconnect, so the weapon cannot fire without the magazine in place. Ruger has also noted that if the SR9 is dry fired without the magazine in the gun, it will cause unnecessary wear to the striker block. Should you not like the magazine disconnect feature, it can be deactivated by removing the disconnect link.

Ruger discovered a possible problem where the SR9 could potentially fire if dropped while the manual safety was off, so they initiated a recall in April of 2008. Ruger has designed a new trigger group that eliminates that problem and will most likely be retrofitting most all SR9 models.

As the SR9 has become more popular, more and more holster makers are now producing models for the weapon. In terms of styles, holster makers are doing most every holster style including belt holsters, IWB holsters, and shoulder holsters. Due the the overall size of the SR9, it's best suited for outside the waistband carry, although IWB is a possibility as well.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Finding-a-Holster-for-the-Ruger-SR9/542705
Travel Cruises Online

Snorkeling vs Scuba

Scuba is undeniably one of the great pastimes one could possibly have dressed in rubber.

Unfortunately scuba as a sport also has its drawbacks. Going on holiday to a remote destination means having to transport expensive scuba gear, or paying handsomely for equipment from an operator - not really knowing in what state of repair it is in. Some divers on a charter boat in choppy water get seasick and do not enjoy the eventual dive.

Certifications, evaluations and medical examinations have to be repeated. Dive charts need to be consulted. Medication has to be taken for allergies, sinusitis and asthma to avoid extreme pain or lung damage. Babysitters are expensive, and some parents feel uneasy about leaving young children with total strangers. Some life insurance policies even have penalties for people who scuba.

Snorkeling as an easy vacation alternative has few of the disadvantages mentioned above. A mask and snorkel will not take up too much space in your luggage. It can even be purchased relatively cheaply at most destinations. There are numerous spots where the whole family can float on a relatively flat surface of water without any effort to see tons of fish, beautiful underwater formations and even old wrecks. No need to worry about air reserves, rate of ascent and a host of other factors that could be life-threatening.

The addictive thrill of danger is still present as anything can swim up out of the blue distance, and that might be why the mask and snorkel of a true enthusiast never gathers too much dust in the closet.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Snorkeling-vs-Scuba/542597
Holiday Destinations

Four Season Tents For Any Time Camping

We love camping here at tents.info (Hay we made this website about it in are spare time), and there is nothing we love better than camping in the winter in snug 4 season tents, This is a great artical we found on the subject...

Are you an outdoors lover? I find that less and less people I come into contact with like the great outdoors. What's with this? About with Mother Nature is probably exactly what many city-goers need. It's a wake-up call. You know, one of those experiences that make you realize that there's more to this world than mere concrete and exhaust fumes. It's a time to get back the primordial side of things.

Step away from the urban jungle and into the real deal. After that first breath of fresh air and that calm silence hit you, you'll certainly have a new love for nature. Of course then you will also need some decent supplies. After all, it's not like you can tackle the big bad woods without the proper equipment. When it comes to camping, hiking, rock scaling, and mountain biking, there are some imperative tools of the trade. This brings me to 4 season tents.

4 Season Tents

Do you own any Four season tents? You know, the ones that are suited for all levels of weather. I don't care if you're battling the summer heat and humidity, grappling with a nasty blizzard, or keeping out of a harsh thunderstorm; 4 season camping tents are what you need. I can recall back in the day when I used to head off on my own for a weekend in the woods. Of course this woods was on our own property, but it was an adventure nevertheless.

I had my own camping supplies which included a good knife, a mummy bag, a two-man tent, canteen, and plenty of matches. Yep, you could say I was a regular Crocodile Dundee. I was always prepared to battle the forces of nature with a grin on my face. However, there was always one problem. It concerned my tent. We of course didn't have the 4 season tents at that time. For some reason every time I would head off on a camping trip, I would get rained on at some point during the night. Now, this wasn't a problem that couldn't be dealt with. I slept well in my two-man tent, regardless of the precipitation.

Although, it did bother me that if I touched the inside wall of my tent, it would begin to leak. What was the deal with that? Not exactly advanced you might say. Luckily for all today's campers there are trusty 4 season tents to get the job done perfectly. Hop online and see what they're all about. Find the absolute best deals on http://www.tents.info 4 season tents in cyberspace.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Four-Season-Tents-For-Any-Time-Camping/534748
Air Travel Online

Saiga Firearms From Russia with Precision

The Saiga rifles are some of the best known rifle designs in the world, but adapted for the civilian market. Since the beginning Saiga shotguns have taken precedence in the firearms communities, due to the creation of the fastest repeat action shotgun, known simply as the Saiga 12. A key factor in the Saiga firearms success was the time tested design of Kalashnikov's rifle. Still Mikhail Kalashnikov works and over sees the production and engineering of every new product to leave the production line.

A key difference in the Saiga firearms, from other designs is the lack of the pistol grip, which is restricted by importing laws. Although there are a variety of gun smiths across the USA, who specialize in converting Saiga shotguns and Saiga rifles to accept pistol grips, by moving the trigger group forward, to accommodate for the pistol grip. Aside from these minor differences, any AK47 enthusiast can clearly see the piston operated rotating bolt operation, as a reminder of the almost sixty year old design, which still has yet to be improved on, since its release.

Aside from the tactical aspects of the Saiga shotguns, there is a large amount of hunters switching to Saiga 308 rifles, along with other popular hunting caliber RAA imported firearms. Every Saiga firearms goes through a stringent test for quality and longevity, at the Izmesh production plant in Russia, where all the Saiga guns are produced. Despite the original design being cost effective, innovations like chrome plating and lined parts helps to ensure the integrity of every firearms exported.

Izmesh is also known for producing Red Army weapons, vehicles, armor, and other military items, prior to the fall of the Soviet Union. Now capitalism took these remarkable firearms, from the hands of military personal and combatants, to the hands and hearts of the civilian market. Despite the start as a USA rival, the Saiga shotguns in particular are becoming some of the most popular firearms, which can be found in almost any gun shop around the country. In fact during the last few years the Saiga firearms have been back ordered, to the point specific models were solely produced to meet these demands, ensuring that they would always stay available.

Currently the Izmesh firearms are used in more militaries than any other firearms company world wide, and due to the faction of the price, compared to other popular military weapons there is no sign of slowing this trend. Despite the prominent role in militaries, Saiga still takes careful consideration before exporting their weapons, to ensure reliability and quality are never sacrificed.

In conclusion for hunters on a budget or anybody looking for a high quality, yet affordable repeat action firearm, the Saiga is nearly impossible to beat. The only major draw back is the lack of long distance accuracy, which is considered useful to approximately two hundred and fifty meters; although on average the typical hunter is only shooting within these ranges. During my experience with Saiga firearms, I would recommend them to anybody who is looking for an affordable, yet high quality firearm.

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Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Saiga-Firearms-From-Russia-with-Precision/533178
boating equipment