This is snippit from an article by J. Dick Martinez. He is Grand Master of the Florida Masons.
"..people are like garbage trucks. They drive around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile and wave, wish them well and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.
The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day. Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. So, love the people who treat you right, pray for the ones who don't.
Life is ten percent what you make it, and ninety percent how you take it."
This might be a good time for a New Years resolution. If you don't have one, or have failed at others, this might be one you could try. It will not take much effort. It will take lots of will power and self control. But here's a new twist. This year, write down your resolution, and send it to anyone who rides with you in the car. Now you have to actually try to follow it, or you will hear about it.
If you think about it, what do you actually benefit, when you blow your horn or gesture at another driver. It might feel good, but it is short lived, and most of them will gesture right back and you never know what might come next. and even if they ignor you, you will never change them by getting upset.
Smile, wave and wish them well. You will feel much better, I promise. Plus you may have actually been successful in your New Years resolution. Happy 2011.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Small World
It never ceases to amaze me how small our world seems sometimes. It is that 'six degrees of separation" thing. The Human Connection. The Theory is that we are all so closely related, that any two individuals could be connected through at most five acquaintances, or the six degrees. Some believe it to be an Urban Myth.
I like the theory myself, I am amazed at who I meet sometimes, who know people, who know people, I know. My dad died in the military over fifty years ago. He was kiiled in a fire, on the USS Bennington, in the Atlantic along with a hundred other men. My family went to the 50th reunion of that tradegy a few years ago in Newport Rhode Island. Before I went, I sent a note to the organizer and asked if he knew anyone who actually knew my father. He said he would send a note to the crew members. I was only four years old when my dad died, so I did not have a lot of memories, of him.
I met a lot of people at the reunion, but none who actually knew my father. When I returned to Naples, I got a letter from a man who actually lived in Naples. He knew my father, in fact he worked for my father on the ship. I went all the way to Rhode Island, and the one person I was looking for was right here in Naples. We met, and he was a delightful man with lots of stories and anedotes about my father. I enjoyed the meeting. One email to Bennington Crew members, thousands and thousands of people, and from that email, three people have now contacted me, who knew my father. Wow!
One more story, and you will believe we really live in a small world. Recently I went to a highschool reunion. I met someone I went through twelve years of school with. I had not seen her in over forty years. The reunion was on Friday night. On Saturday morning, I was running some errands which took me a few hours. On my way back home, I randomly stopped at a flea market. I parked my car walked into the market, turned right and stopped at the first booth. someone tapped me on the shoulder. It was my highschool friend. I had not seen her in forty years, and the day after the reunion, I ran into her again. It is a small world. I bet some of you have better stories than these. Let me know.
I like the theory myself, I am amazed at who I meet sometimes, who know people, who know people, I know. My dad died in the military over fifty years ago. He was kiiled in a fire, on the USS Bennington, in the Atlantic along with a hundred other men. My family went to the 50th reunion of that tradegy a few years ago in Newport Rhode Island. Before I went, I sent a note to the organizer and asked if he knew anyone who actually knew my father. He said he would send a note to the crew members. I was only four years old when my dad died, so I did not have a lot of memories, of him.
I met a lot of people at the reunion, but none who actually knew my father. When I returned to Naples, I got a letter from a man who actually lived in Naples. He knew my father, in fact he worked for my father on the ship. I went all the way to Rhode Island, and the one person I was looking for was right here in Naples. We met, and he was a delightful man with lots of stories and anedotes about my father. I enjoyed the meeting. One email to Bennington Crew members, thousands and thousands of people, and from that email, three people have now contacted me, who knew my father. Wow!
One more story, and you will believe we really live in a small world. Recently I went to a highschool reunion. I met someone I went through twelve years of school with. I had not seen her in over forty years. The reunion was on Friday night. On Saturday morning, I was running some errands which took me a few hours. On my way back home, I randomly stopped at a flea market. I parked my car walked into the market, turned right and stopped at the first booth. someone tapped me on the shoulder. It was my highschool friend. I had not seen her in forty years, and the day after the reunion, I ran into her again. It is a small world. I bet some of you have better stories than these. Let me know.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Football Trifecta
We have three NFL (National Football League) teams in Florida. Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Miami Dolphins. My son and I finished our trifecta by going to see the Dolphins last night. We have now been to a game at all three Florida stadiums, and I am here to tell you, from a pure entertainment view, they are all worth the trip. It does not matter where you sit, or whether you are a football fan, fanatic, or tag along friend or spouse. All the teams work hard to make sure that you get your money's worth. Just being part of the spectacle and interacting with the other people there is an experience.
I say it does not matter where you sit, because we sat high and low, in these stadiums, 7th row, 60th row and nose bleed seats. The game is viewable from all seats, and so is the extra entertainment. Fireworks, stadium video, celebrities, fan participation, sideline antics and choreographed beautiful cheerleader movements. Pregame, halftime and post-game programs. A mega-merchandise store and a Gallery of Legend Players, It is non-stop sensual stimulation. Forget the old single scoreboard, the entire stadium's flat surfaces light up with information, sights, sounds, and the contagious thunder of the excited crowd.
Forget about the old days of just hotdogs and peanuts, there are so many choices for food, Cuban sandwiches, wraps, pints of ice cream, nuts, smoothies, even a booth with Boar's Head products sandwiches. Nothing is cheap, but, it is worth what you have to spend.
If you are a tailgater, these stadiums cater to your needs. The parking is laid out for tailgating with plenty of space, and portable toilets. The smell of food cooking is everywhere. If you need something, just ask your parking lot neighbor. We forgot a spatula to flip our burgers on the hibachi grill, and it only took a minute to find one. You could make an evening of just sitting in the parking lot, and watching the fanatics, and I believe some people do. There were several tents with big screen TV's. There is so much to see, there was even a pole, with ladies dancing around it and a crowd cheering them on and taking pictures.
If you live in or just visit Florida, I suggest a drive and visit to any of these football stadiums. Buy your tickets on line, EBay or scalp them at the game. I promise, you will enjoy yourself and come away with a unique experience and lots of memories. Don't forget the spatula.
I say it does not matter where you sit, because we sat high and low, in these stadiums, 7th row, 60th row and nose bleed seats. The game is viewable from all seats, and so is the extra entertainment. Fireworks, stadium video, celebrities, fan participation, sideline antics and choreographed beautiful cheerleader movements. Pregame, halftime and post-game programs. A mega-merchandise store and a Gallery of Legend Players, It is non-stop sensual stimulation. Forget the old single scoreboard, the entire stadium's flat surfaces light up with information, sights, sounds, and the contagious thunder of the excited crowd.
Forget about the old days of just hotdogs and peanuts, there are so many choices for food, Cuban sandwiches, wraps, pints of ice cream, nuts, smoothies, even a booth with Boar's Head products sandwiches. Nothing is cheap, but, it is worth what you have to spend.
If you are a tailgater, these stadiums cater to your needs. The parking is laid out for tailgating with plenty of space, and portable toilets. The smell of food cooking is everywhere. If you need something, just ask your parking lot neighbor. We forgot a spatula to flip our burgers on the hibachi grill, and it only took a minute to find one. You could make an evening of just sitting in the parking lot, and watching the fanatics, and I believe some people do. There were several tents with big screen TV's. There is so much to see, there was even a pole, with ladies dancing around it and a crowd cheering them on and taking pictures.
If you live in or just visit Florida, I suggest a drive and visit to any of these football stadiums. Buy your tickets on line, EBay or scalp them at the game. I promise, you will enjoy yourself and come away with a unique experience and lots of memories. Don't forget the spatula.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Smooth Ride?
Have you noticed the condition of the roads and streets in SW Florida? More specifically, Naples, FL? Unless you are a part timer here, you don't know how good you have it. You need to spend a spring experiencing the patchwork roads in snow towns up north.
A visit to any town, and I could pick on lots of them, but my recent experience with Cedar Rapids, Iowa, makes me wonder what the cost is to the drivers and their cars.
I realize that poor CR, has just had the flood of the century, but lots of my experiences there, were well before the flood. The roads are worse than a patchwork quilt, with each patch, of varying sizes, at different levels. Obviously the road crews work very hard to fill in the holes made by the seemingly never ending winter, with its freeze/thaw cycle, and the rains of spring. But filling in a hole, so that it makes a speed bump seems like they are not accomplishing much.
When you have aluminum rims and you hit a pothole filled with rain water. and your tire goes flat because it bent your rim, you are happy to have them filled, no matter how bumpy.
The temperature in this area is very hot in the summertime. If you have ever noticed the effect that the heat has on things you leave outdoors, for an extended period, then you have an idea of why I am surprised that the roads are not in the same shape as Cedar Rapids. But apparently the heat is no match for the effect that freezing and thawing has on asphalt and concrete. So count your blessings.
You will certainly see a pothole covered here, and occasionally some cracks in the pavement, but the repair seems to be made by a former Zamboni driver, rather than a moto-cross track designer. It is actually flat to the road, and hardly noticeable.
I am certain we have some road issues in Naples, but not like the rest of the country. Type the following phrase into your 'web browser' "Fix our roads, " and you will find over 50,000 sites with that phrase. Reading the first few pages assures me that poor Cedar Rapids is not the only city with a pothole problem. While visiting CR recently, I noticed they were working on the roads, but they will never be what we have in Naples. We are lucky, compared to 50,000 other locations in the world. Maybe we should find something else that does need fixing. I am sure I will hear something from you!
A visit to any town, and I could pick on lots of them, but my recent experience with Cedar Rapids, Iowa, makes me wonder what the cost is to the drivers and their cars.
I realize that poor CR, has just had the flood of the century, but lots of my experiences there, were well before the flood. The roads are worse than a patchwork quilt, with each patch, of varying sizes, at different levels. Obviously the road crews work very hard to fill in the holes made by the seemingly never ending winter, with its freeze/thaw cycle, and the rains of spring. But filling in a hole, so that it makes a speed bump seems like they are not accomplishing much.
When you have aluminum rims and you hit a pothole filled with rain water. and your tire goes flat because it bent your rim, you are happy to have them filled, no matter how bumpy.
The temperature in this area is very hot in the summertime. If you have ever noticed the effect that the heat has on things you leave outdoors, for an extended period, then you have an idea of why I am surprised that the roads are not in the same shape as Cedar Rapids. But apparently the heat is no match for the effect that freezing and thawing has on asphalt and concrete. So count your blessings.
You will certainly see a pothole covered here, and occasionally some cracks in the pavement, but the repair seems to be made by a former Zamboni driver, rather than a moto-cross track designer. It is actually flat to the road, and hardly noticeable.
I am certain we have some road issues in Naples, but not like the rest of the country. Type the following phrase into your 'web browser' "Fix our roads, " and you will find over 50,000 sites with that phrase. Reading the first few pages assures me that poor Cedar Rapids is not the only city with a pothole problem. While visiting CR recently, I noticed they were working on the roads, but they will never be what we have in Naples. We are lucky, compared to 50,000 other locations in the world. Maybe we should find something else that does need fixing. I am sure I will hear something from you!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Go Fish!
I met with a new client today in the Southwest Florida fishing business. He said that the fishing is so good now that everyone in the 'business' will look forward to a wonderful 'season' in SW Florida. That's good news for the people who visit us in the winter. For those fishing enthusiasts, the mix of weather, currents, wind, Mother Nature and perhaps oil in the deep water west of us, has filled our waters with fish. Bottom fishing in the Gulf has seen people catching their limit of Grouper and Red Snapper.
We have so many varieties of fish in the Gulf, Lakes and Bays surrounding us, that there is literally every type of fishing you could want. I like Gulf fishing as it requires less skill, which describes my fishing prowness. Lack of talent. If you go out on a Gulf charter, they provide everything for your day or half day. When you go, make sure you select a boat that does the kind of fishing you want. Call and ask, and if they don't have what you want, I am sure they will refer you to another who does.
The cost of a commercial fishing trip is determined by how many people are on your boat. There are 'party' boats which are larger and carry lots of people. These cost less and the assistance is not as personal but it is still good fishing. These are a favorite of some friends of mine, but they fish a lot, and know how. It is not my type of fishing. A Charter boat will cost you a hundred dollars per person, more or less depending if there are others sharing the day with you. But the fishing is personalized and the assistance is very good and personal to your style. If you think of the cost as a per hour fee, and you end up with dinner at the end of the day, then it is well worth it. Don't forget to tip your captain if he finds fish for you.
On a Charter boat, always tell your boat captain what you want to accomplish. It will determine where they take you and the type of tackle needed. On a party boat, you will fish, when and where they stop.
The first time I went out on a charter boat, I did not know what to tell him. I was totally unfamiliar with the protocol. Luckily my son caught a good sized Red Snapper and whatever it was I caught, the captain had not seen before. We did not keep anything that day, We were merely out to enjoy the Gulf, and inadvertinly feed the Dolphins with most everything we caught and threw back.
The next time we went out, I told the captain we just wanted to catch fish and keep a few larger ones for dinner. He put out some trolling lines and before long we had as much as we wanted. Lots of Mackeral & Bonita. It was a good day on the water, and a good evening of fish fried and broiled for friends. The next time out, I told the captain I wanted to catch a Snapper or a Grouper, if time permitting I wanted to try for a Goliath Grouper. We caught some small Snapper and Grouper that day, but never got a bite from a Goliath.
I have also been backwater fishing in the rivers and canals upon which our area is surrounded. This is totally different fishing, but for some who might have a fear of deep water, this might be a way to still enjoy the sport. The back waters are teaming with all varieties of fish, and it is not necessary to go very far to find them.
We have sun, sand and surf in SW Florida, but we also have fish, and lots of people who make their living helping you catch them. Spend a day with them on the water, and you will be hooked, along with your dinner.
Good Luck.
We have so many varieties of fish in the Gulf, Lakes and Bays surrounding us, that there is literally every type of fishing you could want. I like Gulf fishing as it requires less skill, which describes my fishing prowness. Lack of talent. If you go out on a Gulf charter, they provide everything for your day or half day. When you go, make sure you select a boat that does the kind of fishing you want. Call and ask, and if they don't have what you want, I am sure they will refer you to another who does.
The cost of a commercial fishing trip is determined by how many people are on your boat. There are 'party' boats which are larger and carry lots of people. These cost less and the assistance is not as personal but it is still good fishing. These are a favorite of some friends of mine, but they fish a lot, and know how. It is not my type of fishing. A Charter boat will cost you a hundred dollars per person, more or less depending if there are others sharing the day with you. But the fishing is personalized and the assistance is very good and personal to your style. If you think of the cost as a per hour fee, and you end up with dinner at the end of the day, then it is well worth it. Don't forget to tip your captain if he finds fish for you.
On a Charter boat, always tell your boat captain what you want to accomplish. It will determine where they take you and the type of tackle needed. On a party boat, you will fish, when and where they stop.
The first time I went out on a charter boat, I did not know what to tell him. I was totally unfamiliar with the protocol. Luckily my son caught a good sized Red Snapper and whatever it was I caught, the captain had not seen before. We did not keep anything that day, We were merely out to enjoy the Gulf, and inadvertinly feed the Dolphins with most everything we caught and threw back.
The next time we went out, I told the captain we just wanted to catch fish and keep a few larger ones for dinner. He put out some trolling lines and before long we had as much as we wanted. Lots of Mackeral & Bonita. It was a good day on the water, and a good evening of fish fried and broiled for friends. The next time out, I told the captain I wanted to catch a Snapper or a Grouper, if time permitting I wanted to try for a Goliath Grouper. We caught some small Snapper and Grouper that day, but never got a bite from a Goliath.
I have also been backwater fishing in the rivers and canals upon which our area is surrounded. This is totally different fishing, but for some who might have a fear of deep water, this might be a way to still enjoy the sport. The back waters are teaming with all varieties of fish, and it is not necessary to go very far to find them.
We have sun, sand and surf in SW Florida, but we also have fish, and lots of people who make their living helping you catch them. Spend a day with them on the water, and you will be hooked, along with your dinner.
Good Luck.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Fifty Percent Discount
I went to a sale the other day at a golf store, that was going out of business. I had seen the signs advertising it for a few weeks. But I waited until the sale percentage discount on their signs showed 50% - 70% off. I hoped I would get lucky with a size that might save me some money. Waiting was a mistake.
In the words of Abraham Lincoln, " “Things may come to those who wait...but only the things left by those who hustle.” The leftover, picked over, lucky sizes were those that I could not use. Plenty of size 32 pants and XXL & XXXL shirts. I was greedy, rather than satisfied to get a reasonable sale price, I wanted a steal. I did not consider that there would be others who were satisfied to get a small bargain, and the good merchandise.
It seems to me that some of us might approach other things in our lives the same way. We wait for the big profit, the larger discount, the lower purchase price, or the higher sale price, and as a result, we lose out. I suggest that you be satisfied with a good deal, and stop waiting on the 'best.' You may not get anything like me!
In the words of Abraham Lincoln, " “Things may come to those who wait...but only the things left by those who hustle.” The leftover, picked over, lucky sizes were those that I could not use. Plenty of size 32 pants and XXL & XXXL shirts. I was greedy, rather than satisfied to get a reasonable sale price, I wanted a steal. I did not consider that there would be others who were satisfied to get a small bargain, and the good merchandise.
It seems to me that some of us might approach other things in our lives the same way. We wait for the big profit, the larger discount, the lower purchase price, or the higher sale price, and as a result, we lose out. I suggest that you be satisfied with a good deal, and stop waiting on the 'best.' You may not get anything like me!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Prepare to lose your valuables
Sounds like a dumb thing to do, but how many of us really know what's in our wallet (or purse.) ? I had a box of keepsakes that I had been throwing things into for many years. It had a small coin collection that my mother had given to my son, when he was too young, and not ready to maintain it, so I kept it for him and planned to give it to him as a long lost gift. I also had a wind-up collectible car that my dad had given to me in 1952. The items were not that valuable to anyone but me. They certainly had more value to me, than the person who broke into the garage and stole them. Once they were gone, they again had value to me, but I could not remember all of the things in the box. That bothered me the most.
This feeling is described in a poem by William Shakespeare,
" For it so falls out
That what we have we prize not to the worth
Whiles we enjoy it, but being lack'd and lost,
Why, then we rack the value; then we find
The virtue that possession would not show us
Whiles it was ours. "
You may have such a treasure box, or not. But whatever you have of any value to you or your insurance company, I suggest you start treating it that way now, instead of longing for its return or guessing at its contents after you lose it.
With this same thought, I suggest that while sitting on the couch, listening to music or the news or weather on television, that you dump the contents of your wallet or purse in your lap, and make a list or copy of its contents. The first thing is to place the your license, credit/debit cards, gas cards, and all those other things which you haven't looked at in years on a photocopier, or a scanner. Make sure to copy both sides as you need the customer service number on the back of the cards to report them stolen. When we lose our wallet, our first thought should be to cancel the cards right away. The easiest and quickest way is to call the service number and give them the stolen card number. If the only place to find that is on the card.....well now you have it. By the way, don't keep the list in your wallet. Store it in a safe place at home.
Remember to file a police report. It's unlikely you will get your stuff back, but it is important to the credit card and insurance people.
While sorting through your valuables, try to simplify your life by eliminating some of the stuff you do not need to carry around on a daily basis. Never keep things that cannot be replaced. That is what safes and safe deposit boxes are for.
I think this is part of my boy scout training. "Be prepared.!" Are you?
This feeling is described in a poem by William Shakespeare,
" For it so falls out
That what we have we prize not to the worth
Whiles we enjoy it, but being lack'd and lost,
Why, then we rack the value; then we find
The virtue that possession would not show us
Whiles it was ours. "
You may have such a treasure box, or not. But whatever you have of any value to you or your insurance company, I suggest you start treating it that way now, instead of longing for its return or guessing at its contents after you lose it.
With this same thought, I suggest that while sitting on the couch, listening to music or the news or weather on television, that you dump the contents of your wallet or purse in your lap, and make a list or copy of its contents. The first thing is to place the your license, credit/debit cards, gas cards, and all those other things which you haven't looked at in years on a photocopier, or a scanner. Make sure to copy both sides as you need the customer service number on the back of the cards to report them stolen. When we lose our wallet, our first thought should be to cancel the cards right away. The easiest and quickest way is to call the service number and give them the stolen card number. If the only place to find that is on the card.....well now you have it. By the way, don't keep the list in your wallet. Store it in a safe place at home.
Remember to file a police report. It's unlikely you will get your stuff back, but it is important to the credit card and insurance people.
While sorting through your valuables, try to simplify your life by eliminating some of the stuff you do not need to carry around on a daily basis. Never keep things that cannot be replaced. That is what safes and safe deposit boxes are for.
I think this is part of my boy scout training. "Be prepared.!" Are you?
Friday, October 1, 2010
Florida Panthers
If you live in Florida, then you know we have a cat like creature that we hear about, but rarely see. That's because the current population is less than one hundred. You will regularly see on the news or hear about another being killed by a car. The automobile is their biggest threat.
The highway department actually created underpasses to allow them to cross roads and interstate highways, without getting hit, but apparently the cats cannot read, or there are not enough signs to direct them.
Florida panthers are shy and try very hard to avoid people. They do not seem to be dangerous to humans, as there are no documented cases of a Florida panther attacking a person. The chances of you being killed by a panther are far less than your chance of "becoming a victim of lightning or death by bee-sting.
One of my friends sent me the attached picture, that his friend took with a cell phone, while out hunting.
So as you can see , they do exist. I saw one slinking into a large palmetto stand at a golf course recently. It was darker, almost black, but certainly a panther, not a bobcat. It had a long tail, but it was probably very muddy, rather than actually that color. I immediately turned the golf cart in its direction, then, realized what I was doing, and thought better of it. I did not want to be on the Panther Net website as the first human getting eaten by a panther.
They are interesting creatures, and seem to be surviving despite our urban sprawl. If you want to donate or learn more about them then visit the following websites.
http://www.floridapanthernet.org/ or,
http://www.nps.gov/ever/naturescience/floridapanther.htm or,
http://www.panthersociety.org/index.html
The highway department actually created underpasses to allow them to cross roads and interstate highways, without getting hit, but apparently the cats cannot read, or there are not enough signs to direct them.
Florida panthers are shy and try very hard to avoid people. They do not seem to be dangerous to humans, as there are no documented cases of a Florida panther attacking a person. The chances of you being killed by a panther are far less than your chance of "becoming a victim of lightning or death by bee-sting.
One of my friends sent me the attached picture, that his friend took with a cell phone, while out hunting.
So as you can see , they do exist. I saw one slinking into a large palmetto stand at a golf course recently. It was darker, almost black, but certainly a panther, not a bobcat. It had a long tail, but it was probably very muddy, rather than actually that color. I immediately turned the golf cart in its direction, then, realized what I was doing, and thought better of it. I did not want to be on the Panther Net website as the first human getting eaten by a panther.
They are interesting creatures, and seem to be surviving despite our urban sprawl. If you want to donate or learn more about them then visit the following websites.
http://www.floridapanthernet.org/ or,
http://www.nps.gov/ever/naturescience/floridapanther.htm or,
http://www.panthersociety.org/index.html
Monday, September 13, 2010
Continuous Compression CPR
I used to travel by air regularly as a company owner.I spent a lot of time in airports and once, in the early 1980's, I was in Chicago's O'Hare Airport, waiting for a flight. As the line moved forward, at the gate, I noticed a man laying on the carpet, behind the gate attendant, and what was worse, everyone was ignoring him.
I asked the gate attendant what was wrong with the man on the floor. She said that he appears to have had a heart attack. I asked, "why aren't you helping him?" She said, "Paramedics had been called and they will help him." I did not know how to perform CPR. Unfortunately, as with most people, we relied on a few other brave souls.
Within a few minutes, one of these brave souls noticed the man and began preparing him for CPR. He asked if anyone had a "bag." In the early 80's, there was fear, that contact with another person's blood could give you Aids. The drug industry had created some products that you could use to protect yourself while giving another person mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. ("Bag"). The problem was, no one had a "bag." So a woman removed her slip, and handed it to him. He immediately began CPR, which included chest compressions followed by a breath into the man's mouth. The first time he did that, the slip showed a perfect circle of blood where his mouth had been.
The man saw that, hesitated, and then restarted the process until the paramedics arrived. Brave soul. I left Chicago that day, wondering if the heart attack victim had survived, and if the brave soul had gotten Aids.
With Continuous Compression CPR, we now all have a new tool, that we can use, without training and without fear of killing ourselves to save someone else's life.
More than 300 000 persons die of sudden cardiac arrest each year. Someone in cardiac arrest has very little chance of survival unless you, the bystander, take immediate action to sustain them until the paramedics arrive.
Cardiac arrest is a condition in which the heart abruptly stops pumping blood, for whatever reason. The heart goes from a regular heartbeat to a random twitching, called ventricular fibrillation. When the heart is twitching blood is not moving through the body, so the patient passes out.
Do not waste time trying to find a pulse. Address the person in a loud voice. If there is no response, shake the person to check if they are unconscious. If there is no response, assess the breathing: Is it normal or abnormal? Abnormal breathing means either no breathing at all or intermittent gasping. If you witness a person suddenly collapse for no apparent reason and that person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, you should assume this as cardiac arrest.
Call 911, and then immediately start chest compressions and continue until the paramedics arrive. When you leave, you will know that the victim certainly had a better chance of surviving, and the person helping, would certainly also survive.
I asked the gate attendant what was wrong with the man on the floor. She said that he appears to have had a heart attack. I asked, "why aren't you helping him?" She said, "Paramedics had been called and they will help him." I did not know how to perform CPR. Unfortunately, as with most people, we relied on a few other brave souls.
Within a few minutes, one of these brave souls noticed the man and began preparing him for CPR. He asked if anyone had a "bag." In the early 80's, there was fear, that contact with another person's blood could give you Aids. The drug industry had created some products that you could use to protect yourself while giving another person mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. ("Bag"). The problem was, no one had a "bag." So a woman removed her slip, and handed it to him. He immediately began CPR, which included chest compressions followed by a breath into the man's mouth. The first time he did that, the slip showed a perfect circle of blood where his mouth had been.
The man saw that, hesitated, and then restarted the process until the paramedics arrived. Brave soul. I left Chicago that day, wondering if the heart attack victim had survived, and if the brave soul had gotten Aids.
With Continuous Compression CPR, we now all have a new tool, that we can use, without training and without fear of killing ourselves to save someone else's life.
More than 300 000 persons die of sudden cardiac arrest each year. Someone in cardiac arrest has very little chance of survival unless you, the bystander, take immediate action to sustain them until the paramedics arrive.
Cardiac arrest is a condition in which the heart abruptly stops pumping blood, for whatever reason. The heart goes from a regular heartbeat to a random twitching, called ventricular fibrillation. When the heart is twitching blood is not moving through the body, so the patient passes out.
Do not waste time trying to find a pulse. Address the person in a loud voice. If there is no response, shake the person to check if they are unconscious. If there is no response, assess the breathing: Is it normal or abnormal? Abnormal breathing means either no breathing at all or intermittent gasping. If you witness a person suddenly collapse for no apparent reason and that person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, you should assume this as cardiac arrest.
Call 911, and then immediately start chest compressions and continue until the paramedics arrive. When you leave, you will know that the victim certainly had a better chance of surviving, and the person helping, would certainly also survive.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Here's a nice outing - Give Blood
Every few months I give blood. It is an easy way to help someone without even knowing them. It is a nice outing for you and your spouse, or a friend. It will only take an hour out of your life and it might just save someone else's.
You can donate blood if you are 17 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in good health. If you are taking prescription medications, it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you. Call ahead and ask if you are concerned. It takes less than an hour to donate blood, from the time you arrive to the time you leave.
• Follow your usual diet and meal schedule before coming to donate.
• You’ll need photo identification and they will ask you medical history questions.
• You get a mini-physical. They measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature and red blood cell level.
• Once you have registered and your eligibility determined, they will take a quart of your blood. It’s a simple procedure that lasts approximately five to seven minutes. Resume regular activities afterward.
• You may return in eight weeks to donate again.
The people who take your blood are always nice. They make it fun, and they , of course, have to endure all the 'blood' jokes. "take it all, I will be a quart low after this, why is his blood blue, how come you smile when you stick me with that needle? " I cannot imagine how many times they hear the same jokes in an eight hour shift.
The people who give blood seem to be as nice. Why not, they get free orange juice, a very comfortable chair, a nice environment and other victims close by sharing the same experience.
One final thing, it does not matter what blood type you are. I thought they didn't need my A positive blood, because they could get it anywhere. But the nurse taking my blood said that more people had my type, so naturally more was needed. You don't need rare blood to help, just red blood and a big smile.
You can donate blood if you are 17 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in good health. If you are taking prescription medications, it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you. Call ahead and ask if you are concerned. It takes less than an hour to donate blood, from the time you arrive to the time you leave.
• Follow your usual diet and meal schedule before coming to donate.
• You’ll need photo identification and they will ask you medical history questions.
• You get a mini-physical. They measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature and red blood cell level.
• Once you have registered and your eligibility determined, they will take a quart of your blood. It’s a simple procedure that lasts approximately five to seven minutes. Resume regular activities afterward.
• You may return in eight weeks to donate again.
The people who take your blood are always nice. They make it fun, and they , of course, have to endure all the 'blood' jokes. "take it all, I will be a quart low after this, why is his blood blue, how come you smile when you stick me with that needle? " I cannot imagine how many times they hear the same jokes in an eight hour shift.
The people who give blood seem to be as nice. Why not, they get free orange juice, a very comfortable chair, a nice environment and other victims close by sharing the same experience.
One final thing, it does not matter what blood type you are. I thought they didn't need my A positive blood, because they could get it anywhere. But the nurse taking my blood said that more people had my type, so naturally more was needed. You don't need rare blood to help, just red blood and a big smile.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Your Class Reunion
Even if you do not have fond memories of your school years, certainly there are some friends, you remember fondly. Connsider attending your next school reunion, just on the chance that some of those friends may be there and remember you the same way.
Recently, in preparing for a small reunion of my own, I have, through the internet and 'social media' connected with a few people I knew as a teenager. I certainly could have managed my entire life without seeing some of these people again. There is really not much now that we have in common, after all these years. But the bond that you form during your formative years is very strong. You are, in essence, comrades in arms, trudging your way together through life, adolescence, puberty, school, parents, siblings, etc, etc.
One way to put yourself into the right frame of mind is to spend an hour with your old school year books/memory books. Read the things your friends wrote to you, or about you and I promise it will bring back lots of memories.
Go to your reunion without expectations. Forget about trying to lose weight or get your wrinkles tightened. Nobody who matters will care. Your true friends will certainly not care, as long as you are there. Go with the purpose to connect, or reconnect, with those whom you shared both trials and tribulations.
We carry our entire life somewhere in our memory. Some memories, just need a little spark to come back into focus. Seeing and speaking to your school friends will bring them back like a flood. You will have no regrets, unless you do not go.
O.B Keeler, a reporter for the Atlanta Constritution, wrote that when Bobby Jones, one of the most famous golfers, retired, ..." he will build a house by the sea, so men that were boys when I was a boy, shall sit and drink with me." Just like Bobby, I think we all want a taste of those times, even, if only for little while.
Recently, in preparing for a small reunion of my own, I have, through the internet and 'social media' connected with a few people I knew as a teenager. I certainly could have managed my entire life without seeing some of these people again. There is really not much now that we have in common, after all these years. But the bond that you form during your formative years is very strong. You are, in essence, comrades in arms, trudging your way together through life, adolescence, puberty, school, parents, siblings, etc, etc.
One way to put yourself into the right frame of mind is to spend an hour with your old school year books/memory books. Read the things your friends wrote to you, or about you and I promise it will bring back lots of memories.
Go to your reunion without expectations. Forget about trying to lose weight or get your wrinkles tightened. Nobody who matters will care. Your true friends will certainly not care, as long as you are there. Go with the purpose to connect, or reconnect, with those whom you shared both trials and tribulations.
We carry our entire life somewhere in our memory. Some memories, just need a little spark to come back into focus. Seeing and speaking to your school friends will bring them back like a flood. You will have no regrets, unless you do not go.
O.B Keeler, a reporter for the Atlanta Constritution, wrote that when Bobby Jones, one of the most famous golfers, retired, ..." he will build a house by the sea, so men that were boys when I was a boy, shall sit and drink with me." Just like Bobby, I think we all want a taste of those times, even, if only for little while.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Word to PDF and vice versa
I was having breakfast with my son recently at a local restaurant. There was a man, sitting in the next booth, asking questions of his young breakfast companion about Microsoft Word and Adobe PDF files. This was obviously his grandson, and despite the older gentleman's best effort, he could not get the answer he wanted.
Maybe if he understood that Word and Adobe were created for different purposes. Their interaction was originally in one direction. From Word to PDF. No one expected that we would want to convert both ways and back and forth.
Microsoft Word was originally created to replace the functions of a typewriter, with the added capability to edit and change the resulting document, on the screen before it was printed.
PDF stands for Portable Document Format. It created a two-dimensional document in a device-independent, fixed-layout. Its purpose was to allow you to send the large documents electronically to someone. They received a copy of what you had on your screen when you typed it, but without the ability to alter it.
PDF is a very commonly used format across the Internet. The Adobe Acrobat reader is freely available on a variety of platforms, meaning that PDF documents can be viewed in exactly the same way across all these platforms.
By contrast, Microsoft Word documents can only be viewed on platforms that support Microsoft Word.
So to help this poor guy at breakfast; here's an answer, without knowing his question, since he could not verbalize it. "It really depends on what you are trying to accomplish."
1. If you want to send someone a flyer or brochure, then you would send a PDF. The person receiving it will not alter it, only print it or display it.
2. If you want to send someone a contract, and you want them to make changes, then you will send a MS Word document.
3. If you have a MS Word Document, and want to convert it to a PDF, then you need a "Free downloadable PDF conversion program." Type that phrase in your browser and it will lead you to some of them.
4. If you have a PDF document and want to convert it to a Word document, there are not as many free downloads because it is a lot more complicated, but you can find one the same way.
Now you understand why this poor fellow was struggling. He could not explain what he wanted, and the young person really had no reason to understand. Most young people are computer literate but don't spend their days sending and converting word documents back and forth to PDF.
If the man had asked about an MP3 file, the kid would have been a hero.
Maybe if he understood that Word and Adobe were created for different purposes. Their interaction was originally in one direction. From Word to PDF. No one expected that we would want to convert both ways and back and forth.
Microsoft Word was originally created to replace the functions of a typewriter, with the added capability to edit and change the resulting document, on the screen before it was printed.
PDF stands for Portable Document Format. It created a two-dimensional document in a device-independent, fixed-layout. Its purpose was to allow you to send the large documents electronically to someone. They received a copy of what you had on your screen when you typed it, but without the ability to alter it.
PDF is a very commonly used format across the Internet. The Adobe Acrobat reader is freely available on a variety of platforms, meaning that PDF documents can be viewed in exactly the same way across all these platforms.
By contrast, Microsoft Word documents can only be viewed on platforms that support Microsoft Word.
So to help this poor guy at breakfast; here's an answer, without knowing his question, since he could not verbalize it. "It really depends on what you are trying to accomplish."
1. If you want to send someone a flyer or brochure, then you would send a PDF. The person receiving it will not alter it, only print it or display it.
2. If you want to send someone a contract, and you want them to make changes, then you will send a MS Word document.
3. If you have a MS Word Document, and want to convert it to a PDF, then you need a "Free downloadable PDF conversion program." Type that phrase in your browser and it will lead you to some of them.
4. If you have a PDF document and want to convert it to a Word document, there are not as many free downloads because it is a lot more complicated, but you can find one the same way.
Now you understand why this poor fellow was struggling. He could not explain what he wanted, and the young person really had no reason to understand. Most young people are computer literate but don't spend their days sending and converting word documents back and forth to PDF.
If the man had asked about an MP3 file, the kid would have been a hero.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Never say, "I do not know."
The internet is good for anything I do not know. It keeps me from having to say, " I do not know.", which I do not like to do.
I was watching a pre-season football game and someone asked the group, "where did #84 play his college football?" I follow football, very closely, but could not remember this little tidbit. There are some very obscure players out there. Here is something to remember from today forward.
Google search, "player name, bio." you can do this on your smart mobile phone, or any other computer device. It will give you everything about any player. If I have more info, like, Dolphins, or wide receiver, then I type that as well. It merely helps to narrow the search. I got the information in private, then... a few moments later, I said, " USC. Miami picked him 3rd round in 2009. He's, 6'5", the tallest receiver ever drafted by Miami. "Oh yea. that's right, I remember him now" , someone says. You just smile. Be ready, another question is coming.
There are so many questions like this in every day life. When someone asks , "what movie was she nominated for an Academy Award last year? Use the same Google search. Add Academy to the search. You will quickly gain a reputation as the trivia expert. You can tell them where you found it. Sometimes that story is just as good. It's up to you. Depends on who's asking.
I never have to say, I do not know. Why would I? I do not Know!
I was watching a pre-season football game and someone asked the group, "where did #84 play his college football?" I follow football, very closely, but could not remember this little tidbit. There are some very obscure players out there. Here is something to remember from today forward.
Google search, "player name, bio." you can do this on your smart mobile phone, or any other computer device. It will give you everything about any player. If I have more info, like, Dolphins, or wide receiver, then I type that as well. It merely helps to narrow the search. I got the information in private, then... a few moments later, I said, " USC. Miami picked him 3rd round in 2009. He's, 6'5", the tallest receiver ever drafted by Miami. "Oh yea. that's right, I remember him now" , someone says. You just smile. Be ready, another question is coming.
There are so many questions like this in every day life. When someone asks , "what movie was she nominated for an Academy Award last year? Use the same Google search. Add Academy to the search. You will quickly gain a reputation as the trivia expert. You can tell them where you found it. Sometimes that story is just as good. It's up to you. Depends on who's asking.
I never have to say, I do not know. Why would I? I do not Know!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Naples Coral Reefs
I chartered a fishing trip recently out of the Naples dock, and as we moved west out of the pass into the Gulf, I asked the Captain of the boat if he ever fished off the reefs in North Naples, which were recently discovered. He said he had never heard of a reef and my information was wrong. Well even an old salt like the captain, needs to read the newspaper every now and then, rather than his sextant.
For the benefit of the good captain, and my paradise followers who need a map, here's the skinny: According to the Naples Daily News, in an article, by Jeremy Cox, from October 14th, 2005, " Within the distance of a football field from northern Collier County's shores, researchers have discovered a flourishing and sweeping stretch of coral reefs." The good news is that they are within swimming distance from the beach according to Mr. Cox. North of Doctor's pass. It is not yet the quality of the reefs in the Florida Keys, but it will get there and one day make Naples a much more popular diving destination.
So the next time you are boating out of Doctors pass, head north, and set your depth finder and look for our unburied treasure. Grab your snorkle and have a look. Kindly remember that it is only a 50 year old system, and needs to be treated gently. Don't be dropping anchors on the reef. It would be nice if the county put some permanent bouys up so folks can tie off to, rather than dropping an anchor. There will be grouper, snapper, crabs and many other types of marine life. Unlike the coral in the Key's which has mostly died off, ours is alive, and should be 'teaming' with sea life. Enjoy.
For the benefit of the good captain, and my paradise followers who need a map, here's the skinny: According to the Naples Daily News, in an article, by Jeremy Cox, from October 14th, 2005, " Within the distance of a football field from northern Collier County's shores, researchers have discovered a flourishing and sweeping stretch of coral reefs." The good news is that they are within swimming distance from the beach according to Mr. Cox. North of Doctor's pass. It is not yet the quality of the reefs in the Florida Keys, but it will get there and one day make Naples a much more popular diving destination.
So the next time you are boating out of Doctors pass, head north, and set your depth finder and look for our unburied treasure. Grab your snorkle and have a look. Kindly remember that it is only a 50 year old system, and needs to be treated gently. Don't be dropping anchors on the reef. It would be nice if the county put some permanent bouys up so folks can tie off to, rather than dropping an anchor. There will be grouper, snapper, crabs and many other types of marine life. Unlike the coral in the Key's which has mostly died off, ours is alive, and should be 'teaming' with sea life. Enjoy.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Be Prepared
We live in an area where the median age is over 60. Ignoring that the media says 60 is the new 50, it should tell you that we are a retirement area. Lots of us are older and as a result we need to prepare ourselves and our assets for some ultimate distribution.
I am not a lawyer, and do not want to try and give legal advice. What I do want to do is give you some common sense suggestions I have learned from my experience with others.
A friend's father had a serious stroke. A stroke is nature's cruel reminder as to who is, really, in- charge. One day this man is living in a beautiful home with membership in the golf club, his favorite cars in the garage, his boat at the marina and his cash nestled safely in his investment portfolio. The next day he is unable to function in any way, nor was he ever able to again. He died shortly thereafter. This is a blog about paradise and how to enjoy it, but part of enjoying is being prepared so you can, without any worries.
There are no guarantees, nor promises about our future. So as the boys scouts say, "be prepared." Prepared to have your business and properties arranged for that time when you may not be around. You need to take some time today and ask yourself, "what do I want to happen after I am gone?"
Take the time to write it all down. Information about the succession of your business, your properties, your family, your employees. If you do not get it on paper, it will not happen as you want it to. Perhaps you have a key employee who has contributed to your success. You want to make sure he continues in that capacity for your family. It will not happen if you do not set it up now. I say write it all down, but only for the purpose of taking it to your lawyer. Write it down so you can get it all laid out, before you let them create a legal document.
Once you have done all you can to cover the possibilities, for that time, when you may not be around, then smile and go play golf, or enjoy your boat with your spouse, children, and grandchildren. You have worked, now do some playing, do some enjoying. There is no need to worry, you are prepared.
I am not a lawyer, and do not want to try and give legal advice. What I do want to do is give you some common sense suggestions I have learned from my experience with others.
A friend's father had a serious stroke. A stroke is nature's cruel reminder as to who is, really, in- charge. One day this man is living in a beautiful home with membership in the golf club, his favorite cars in the garage, his boat at the marina and his cash nestled safely in his investment portfolio. The next day he is unable to function in any way, nor was he ever able to again. He died shortly thereafter. This is a blog about paradise and how to enjoy it, but part of enjoying is being prepared so you can, without any worries.
There are no guarantees, nor promises about our future. So as the boys scouts say, "be prepared." Prepared to have your business and properties arranged for that time when you may not be around. You need to take some time today and ask yourself, "what do I want to happen after I am gone?"
Take the time to write it all down. Information about the succession of your business, your properties, your family, your employees. If you do not get it on paper, it will not happen as you want it to. Perhaps you have a key employee who has contributed to your success. You want to make sure he continues in that capacity for your family. It will not happen if you do not set it up now. I say write it all down, but only for the purpose of taking it to your lawyer. Write it down so you can get it all laid out, before you let them create a legal document.
Once you have done all you can to cover the possibilities, for that time, when you may not be around, then smile and go play golf, or enjoy your boat with your spouse, children, and grandchildren. You have worked, now do some playing, do some enjoying. There is no need to worry, you are prepared.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Big Rocks are important
A professor stood in front of his class and pulled a large jar from below his desk. He then pulled out a tray of tennis ball sized rocks from the same place. After filling the jar with the rocks, he asked if the jar was full. Everyone in the class said, "yes."
He then pulled out a small box with gravel in it. He scooped the gravel into the jar as he shook it and the gravel filled in the gaps around the big rocks.
Again he asked, "is the jar full?" No one answered quickly, this time, but some brave soul said, "no!" "Good," said the professor as he pulled out a pail of sand. He poured the sand into the jar as he shook the jar. The sand filtered down and filled the remaining spaces. Again he asked if the jar was full. All being smarter, they answered 'no' as a group. "Good," said the professor as he pulled out a pitcher of water. He then filled the jar to the top.
The professor then asked, "what is the point of this demonstration?" One student quickly answered, "No matter how full something looks, if you try, you can always squeeze something else in?" "No," the professor said. "This jar is your life, and all the things you need and want to do. What I am trying to demonstrate is how important it is to put the big rocks in first, or you will never get them in at all."
In your life, you have to think of the most important things as the big rocks. Your family, religion, your job and your education. So if you want to squeeze in lots of little things, remember to put the most important things, the big rocks in first or you'll never get them in at all.
(I don't know where I heard or read this story. I took a lot of time management classes in my business life, and it's possible that it was a story to make an important point, which it does very well. My apologies to the professor, students, and original story teller or writer. I have retold the story as I remember it. I would give you all credit if I knew who you were.)
He then pulled out a small box with gravel in it. He scooped the gravel into the jar as he shook it and the gravel filled in the gaps around the big rocks.
Again he asked, "is the jar full?" No one answered quickly, this time, but some brave soul said, "no!" "Good," said the professor as he pulled out a pail of sand. He poured the sand into the jar as he shook the jar. The sand filtered down and filled the remaining spaces. Again he asked if the jar was full. All being smarter, they answered 'no' as a group. "Good," said the professor as he pulled out a pitcher of water. He then filled the jar to the top.
The professor then asked, "what is the point of this demonstration?" One student quickly answered, "No matter how full something looks, if you try, you can always squeeze something else in?" "No," the professor said. "This jar is your life, and all the things you need and want to do. What I am trying to demonstrate is how important it is to put the big rocks in first, or you will never get them in at all."
In your life, you have to think of the most important things as the big rocks. Your family, religion, your job and your education. So if you want to squeeze in lots of little things, remember to put the most important things, the big rocks in first or you'll never get them in at all.
(I don't know where I heard or read this story. I took a lot of time management classes in my business life, and it's possible that it was a story to make an important point, which it does very well. My apologies to the professor, students, and original story teller or writer. I have retold the story as I remember it. I would give you all credit if I knew who you were.)
Friday, July 9, 2010
Wrong way Greyhound
This is for those people who are always picketing at the dog track, because they think the dogs are being abused. They are so wrong. In every facet of life there will be some cruel people who abuse animals and even other people, but from my experience I have never seen any abuse in my many years of working or playing at the dog track.
I had so many experiences that were unique, I hope sharing them will give you some insight into the life of the track people and , so, maybe you see that stupid people like Michael Vick who abuse dogs are certainly out there, but they are not hiding at greyhound parks.
People are always asking how greyhounds learn to chase the mechanical rabbit. Believe it or not, the natural curiosity of these beautiful animals and their desire to run makes what they do very natural. There are many ways to train them but letting them see other dogs chasing something is about as complicated as it gets.
The noise of the mechanical device peaks their interest, and the bouncing, moving rabbit seems to be enough. They just have to relate the sound, so that after you have held them, and let them go as it goes by, then the next step is the box. The box has two doors, one to put them in, and one that pops open as the rabbits passes. Sometimes the dogs get confused and face the wrong door in the box. This generally costs you a few dollars on your wager, because they come out late, and sometimes run into the box operator, who runs accross in front to see if all dogs exited before he closes it and resets it. It's funny to see and no one is harmed in the practice, except the dignity of the box operator.
This story is about a grading session for new dogs. When dogs are new to racing, before the season starts, the track will run what we call schooling (or grading races), to see where they want to classify the dogs for their maiden races. On these days there will be twenty or so kennels, each with their dozen or so new dogs, waiting their turns for the races, which run quickly every few minutes. Dogs are loaded, based on a planned order, and run, then removed and the next ones are loaded.
As I said there were twenty or so kennels with at least twenty 'kennel helps', my job, standing with a dozen or more dogs on leads waiting our turn. The dogs know the sound of the mechanical rabbit and get very excited as the rabbit moves around the track. On this day, one dog slipped his collar as the rabbit started to come around the track. He jumped the fence and started running 'up' the stretch toward the sound. Unfortunately, he was going the wrong way on a one way track. The rabbit is on a long arm, extended out to about the middle of the track, no more that twelve to eighteen inches above the ground. The dog was running toward it when he realized at the last second that he was in trouble. He ducked down and the rabbit passed directly over him. Trouble averted...for a few seconds, for as he raised up, he was met by eight dogs in hot pursuit of the rabbit. There was a huge pile up with dogs tumbling everywhere. The rabbit operator, immediately realized what was happening and stopped the mechanical rabbit. All the dogs caught the rabbit that day, but did not know what to do with it when they did.
It was pandemonium, and a lot of excited owners and kennel people, but no injuries just lots of belly laughs as the story was told and retold.
I had so many experiences that were unique, I hope sharing them will give you some insight into the life of the track people and , so, maybe you see that stupid people like Michael Vick who abuse dogs are certainly out there, but they are not hiding at greyhound parks.
People are always asking how greyhounds learn to chase the mechanical rabbit. Believe it or not, the natural curiosity of these beautiful animals and their desire to run makes what they do very natural. There are many ways to train them but letting them see other dogs chasing something is about as complicated as it gets.
The noise of the mechanical device peaks their interest, and the bouncing, moving rabbit seems to be enough. They just have to relate the sound, so that after you have held them, and let them go as it goes by, then the next step is the box. The box has two doors, one to put them in, and one that pops open as the rabbits passes. Sometimes the dogs get confused and face the wrong door in the box. This generally costs you a few dollars on your wager, because they come out late, and sometimes run into the box operator, who runs accross in front to see if all dogs exited before he closes it and resets it. It's funny to see and no one is harmed in the practice, except the dignity of the box operator.
This story is about a grading session for new dogs. When dogs are new to racing, before the season starts, the track will run what we call schooling (or grading races), to see where they want to classify the dogs for their maiden races. On these days there will be twenty or so kennels, each with their dozen or so new dogs, waiting their turns for the races, which run quickly every few minutes. Dogs are loaded, based on a planned order, and run, then removed and the next ones are loaded.
As I said there were twenty or so kennels with at least twenty 'kennel helps', my job, standing with a dozen or more dogs on leads waiting our turn. The dogs know the sound of the mechanical rabbit and get very excited as the rabbit moves around the track. On this day, one dog slipped his collar as the rabbit started to come around the track. He jumped the fence and started running 'up' the stretch toward the sound. Unfortunately, he was going the wrong way on a one way track. The rabbit is on a long arm, extended out to about the middle of the track, no more that twelve to eighteen inches above the ground. The dog was running toward it when he realized at the last second that he was in trouble. He ducked down and the rabbit passed directly over him. Trouble averted...for a few seconds, for as he raised up, he was met by eight dogs in hot pursuit of the rabbit. There was a huge pile up with dogs tumbling everywhere. The rabbit operator, immediately realized what was happening and stopped the mechanical rabbit. All the dogs caught the rabbit that day, but did not know what to do with it when they did.
It was pandemonium, and a lot of excited owners and kennel people, but no injuries just lots of belly laughs as the story was told and retold.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Driving in the rain, this might save your life
In the summer in SW Florida we get rain, practically every day. This information is for us, but is practical for any driver. Please pass them on to your friends & family.
1. Most motorists would turn on the fastest speed of their wipers during heavy downpour, yet the visibility in front of the windshield is still bad. Instead, put on your sun glasses. (any model will do) Your visibility will be perfectly clear, as if there is no rain.
Try it yourself. You still see the drops on the windshield, but not the sheet of rain falling. You can see where the rain bounces off the road. It also helps to eliminate the "blindness" from passing truck spray, or the "kickup" if you are following another vehicle in the rain. This should be part of our basic driver's training. It really does work.
2. Never drive , with cruise control engaged, in the rain or when the pavement is wet or icy. If your car begins to hydro-plane, which happens at higher speed in these conditions, your tires lose contact with the pavement and your vehicle will accelerate to a higher rate of speed causing you take off like an airplane. Our teenagers and all new drivers should be told these facts.
Some vehicles will not allow you to set the cruise control when the windshield wipers are on. This may need to become a standard accessory on all vehicles.
Tell your friends & family, and if any don't know about this, then you might have saved a life.
1. Most motorists would turn on the fastest speed of their wipers during heavy downpour, yet the visibility in front of the windshield is still bad. Instead, put on your sun glasses. (any model will do) Your visibility will be perfectly clear, as if there is no rain.
Try it yourself. You still see the drops on the windshield, but not the sheet of rain falling. You can see where the rain bounces off the road. It also helps to eliminate the "blindness" from passing truck spray, or the "kickup" if you are following another vehicle in the rain. This should be part of our basic driver's training. It really does work.
2. Never drive , with cruise control engaged, in the rain or when the pavement is wet or icy. If your car begins to hydro-plane, which happens at higher speed in these conditions, your tires lose contact with the pavement and your vehicle will accelerate to a higher rate of speed causing you take off like an airplane. Our teenagers and all new drivers should be told these facts.
Some vehicles will not allow you to set the cruise control when the windshield wipers are on. This may need to become a standard accessory on all vehicles.
Tell your friends & family, and if any don't know about this, then you might have saved a life.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
A successful visit by the grand children
I passed an elderly couple walking with two young people the other day, who were clearly their grandchildren. The grandparents were pointing out different things as they walked along, to these very disinterested children. It made me think of my own experiences when we made our annual trip to SW Florida to visit my wife's parents.
Our children were the same as these. Not really interested in the story of where their grandparents stayed when they first came south or that their favorite restaurant used to be on this corner, but was now closed. These people were struggling, because they were not prepared.
If you really wanted to entertain these young people, you would do something for them that they would enjoy. I cannot tell you what that is, but there are ways to find out.
I suggest that before they arrive, you do the most important thing you can do to be prepared. Find out what they eat, and their favorite snacks. Forget about trying to make them eat better, and please don't try sell them on the benefits of your diet. Ask your children, what their children will eat. Be specific, and go to the store and get it. This is a new place with new sites and sounds, make 'the experience' different, not their snack food. Their idea of coming to Florida may have been Disney World, and instead, they got SW Florida. Try to make them happy they came here. Don't make it worse by telling them that snacking is unhealthy, and suggesting they munch on broccoli and carrots. Ask them to help you bake a cake or some cookies, or that one decadent thing for which you might become famous, "grammas' chocolate sauce."
Make a list of the various activities available here. When the children arrive, and they have discovered you have real food in your refrigerator, show them a list of available things to do, and let them pick. Do not suggest things on which you cannot accompany them. They are here to see you. Spend some time with them, doing the things that will make a fun vacation, with their really cool grandparents. If they are boy and girl, you may need to plan separate outings for them, but that's okay too. You can give up a few of your scheduled personal activities to spend quality time with your grandchildren. They may be required, as an assignment, to write about it, when they return to school. How I spent my Spring Break. Give them something they can't wait to tell.
Remember they would probably rather be on a waterslide than a walking tour of the sites downtown. The museum may be fun for some, but the zoo will get them buzzing. Animals are always a safe bet. Things they cannot see back home, like alligators, pelicans or dolphins. Those, might make you, their favorite grandparents. Spoiling them for a day or two will not destroy their character or damage their foundation.
If there is a birthday or holiday happening while they are here, make sure you are prepared for their traditions. When my youngest asked why the Easter Bunny had not come to Florida, his grandmother had to scramble to help keep the tradition alive for this youngster. She tried her best to be creative, but she just was not prepared.
I only tell you all of this for your own good. The children are resilient and will survive no matter what they do while here, but if you truly want them to look forward to coming back, then prepare your self and your kitchen for the carnage. Good luck.
Our children were the same as these. Not really interested in the story of where their grandparents stayed when they first came south or that their favorite restaurant used to be on this corner, but was now closed. These people were struggling, because they were not prepared.
If you really wanted to entertain these young people, you would do something for them that they would enjoy. I cannot tell you what that is, but there are ways to find out.
I suggest that before they arrive, you do the most important thing you can do to be prepared. Find out what they eat, and their favorite snacks. Forget about trying to make them eat better, and please don't try sell them on the benefits of your diet. Ask your children, what their children will eat. Be specific, and go to the store and get it. This is a new place with new sites and sounds, make 'the experience' different, not their snack food. Their idea of coming to Florida may have been Disney World, and instead, they got SW Florida. Try to make them happy they came here. Don't make it worse by telling them that snacking is unhealthy, and suggesting they munch on broccoli and carrots. Ask them to help you bake a cake or some cookies, or that one decadent thing for which you might become famous, "grammas' chocolate sauce."
Make a list of the various activities available here. When the children arrive, and they have discovered you have real food in your refrigerator, show them a list of available things to do, and let them pick. Do not suggest things on which you cannot accompany them. They are here to see you. Spend some time with them, doing the things that will make a fun vacation, with their really cool grandparents. If they are boy and girl, you may need to plan separate outings for them, but that's okay too. You can give up a few of your scheduled personal activities to spend quality time with your grandchildren. They may be required, as an assignment, to write about it, when they return to school. How I spent my Spring Break. Give them something they can't wait to tell.
Remember they would probably rather be on a waterslide than a walking tour of the sites downtown. The museum may be fun for some, but the zoo will get them buzzing. Animals are always a safe bet. Things they cannot see back home, like alligators, pelicans or dolphins. Those, might make you, their favorite grandparents. Spoiling them for a day or two will not destroy their character or damage their foundation.
If there is a birthday or holiday happening while they are here, make sure you are prepared for their traditions. When my youngest asked why the Easter Bunny had not come to Florida, his grandmother had to scramble to help keep the tradition alive for this youngster. She tried her best to be creative, but she just was not prepared.
I only tell you all of this for your own good. The children are resilient and will survive no matter what they do while here, but if you truly want them to look forward to coming back, then prepare your self and your kitchen for the carnage. Good luck.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Naples Paradise & Opportunity
I am a CPA,(no longer practice public accounting) CCIM, Business Broker, and Commercial Realtor. I live in beautiful Naples and people call me to help them find a good business to give them something to do, and receive a better return on, and control over, their nest egg. Naples is a town without a major industry, except tourism and catering to the retiree. We have many service businesses, that can be easily learned and pay well. Lawn Services, Landscaping, Window Cleaning, Commercial Cleaning, Residential Cleaning, Pool Services, Home Watch, Concierge and Personal Services, just to name a few. Your clientele are wealthy home owners who live here only part of the year. Some for as little as a month or more. Most of these businesses have full & part time staff, and merely require the owner to be a supervisor, scheduler, and or administrator.
If you want to buy a restaurant, there are many available. Lots of people try this industry and find it harder than they thought. A successful restaurant takes the right formula. I cannot define it for you, but perhaps you can do so for me. We have a three masted sailing ship, on US 41 not near the water, that operated as a restaurant, and now sits vacant. I had dinner on the water recently in Olde Naples proper, and that beautiful restaurant business is for sale for $112,000. It used to be so busy, you could not get in, now it is sad that we were one of two tables occupied that evening. Maybe you can bring it back.
If you have friends or family moving here, send me their names, if you have a Florida Real Estate license, I can pay you a 25% referral.
Visit my website at www.TimEovino.com and search for your own type of business. You might find an opportunity that will make Naples, your paradise!
If you want to buy a restaurant, there are many available. Lots of people try this industry and find it harder than they thought. A successful restaurant takes the right formula. I cannot define it for you, but perhaps you can do so for me. We have a three masted sailing ship, on US 41 not near the water, that operated as a restaurant, and now sits vacant. I had dinner on the water recently in Olde Naples proper, and that beautiful restaurant business is for sale for $112,000. It used to be so busy, you could not get in, now it is sad that we were one of two tables occupied that evening. Maybe you can bring it back.
If you have friends or family moving here, send me their names, if you have a Florida Real Estate license, I can pay you a 25% referral.
Visit my website at www.TimEovino.com and search for your own type of business. You might find an opportunity that will make Naples, your paradise!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Retirement Planning
If your vision of retirement is you at home, full time, you need to alter your plans.
I know the word retirement sounds great. Waking up late, leisurely breakfast, check your emails, make a few calls, buy some stuff on-line, watch TV, run some errands, laze around till dinner. that's the life! There's only one problem; You better be living alone. If you have a spouse, who is not used to you, being around 100% of their day, and now you are sharing the same home office, maybe even the same computer. Something is going to give, and it will be you.
I did this myself, just as listed above. The first thing I discovered, was that, more than a few days of 'sleeping in' will be the first of many issues. My spouse has a home office, and is on the phone pretty much all day. There would be no tiptoeing around and talking quietly while I slept in. Also forget daytime television, that is a rift waiting to divide the house and get you sleeping on the couch, with your TV. You might have gotten away with it on Saturdays for sports, but daytime TV is for maids, cleaning hotel rooms, it is not for you. Your spouse will be putting the foot down very quickly on that.
Now consider trying to share an office space with someone, who has owned this space by themselves for a long time. You may rest there, but not camp. Consider also that they know where things are, and if you start moving stuff in or around, (remember the book, "Who Moved My Cheese?" ) then you might consider un-retiring after the battle contusions you will sustain.
So let's take a big leap, after learning all this, you decide you are going to pursue some consulting or volunteer work or some other thing at home in the aforementioned single space. If you think life in a cubicle is tough, try making calls and being told that you are talking to loud for them to think, or too loud for their own business calls. Someone will lose privileges, and it will not be the original inhabitant.
So what is my solution to guide you through the retirement maze here in paradise?
Simple: Change as little as possible in the routine of your spouse. You are the 'newbie.' I suggest that you find a remote distant space within your house to create your own space. If you don't have an extra room, then enclose part of the garage or the laundry room and give yourself a new office. If the washer is annoying, then do the laundry yourself at the end of the day as you are leaving your space. Next, endear yourself by offering to do things which increases their productivity and decreases their stress.
Make lists of errands, and where they are, in relation to different parts of town. Offer to cover a few spouse errands in exchange for quid pro quo ( "a favor for a favor") of your own in separate parts of town. You save gas and the frustration of crisscrossing the town and each other.
Life in retirement can be fun, but you have to satisfy others before you even think about yourself.
Good Luck.
I know the word retirement sounds great. Waking up late, leisurely breakfast, check your emails, make a few calls, buy some stuff on-line, watch TV, run some errands, laze around till dinner. that's the life! There's only one problem; You better be living alone. If you have a spouse, who is not used to you, being around 100% of their day, and now you are sharing the same home office, maybe even the same computer. Something is going to give, and it will be you.
I did this myself, just as listed above. The first thing I discovered, was that, more than a few days of 'sleeping in' will be the first of many issues. My spouse has a home office, and is on the phone pretty much all day. There would be no tiptoeing around and talking quietly while I slept in. Also forget daytime television, that is a rift waiting to divide the house and get you sleeping on the couch, with your TV. You might have gotten away with it on Saturdays for sports, but daytime TV is for maids, cleaning hotel rooms, it is not for you. Your spouse will be putting the foot down very quickly on that.
Now consider trying to share an office space with someone, who has owned this space by themselves for a long time. You may rest there, but not camp. Consider also that they know where things are, and if you start moving stuff in or around, (remember the book, "Who Moved My Cheese?" ) then you might consider un-retiring after the battle contusions you will sustain.
So let's take a big leap, after learning all this, you decide you are going to pursue some consulting or volunteer work or some other thing at home in the aforementioned single space. If you think life in a cubicle is tough, try making calls and being told that you are talking to loud for them to think, or too loud for their own business calls. Someone will lose privileges, and it will not be the original inhabitant.
So what is my solution to guide you through the retirement maze here in paradise?
Simple: Change as little as possible in the routine of your spouse. You are the 'newbie.' I suggest that you find a remote distant space within your house to create your own space. If you don't have an extra room, then enclose part of the garage or the laundry room and give yourself a new office. If the washer is annoying, then do the laundry yourself at the end of the day as you are leaving your space. Next, endear yourself by offering to do things which increases their productivity and decreases their stress.
Make lists of errands, and where they are, in relation to different parts of town. Offer to cover a few spouse errands in exchange for quid pro quo ( "a favor for a favor") of your own in separate parts of town. You save gas and the frustration of crisscrossing the town and each other.
Life in retirement can be fun, but you have to satisfy others before you even think about yourself.
Good Luck.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Summertime Golf in SW Florida with coupons galore.
I have never lived in an area with more golf courses per capita than Southwest Florida. We literally have so many courses that you cannot play them all in a single summer. In the last two weeks my group has played Tiburon, Lely Flamingo, Old Corkscrew, The Rookery and Pelican Marsh.
Greg Norman has his annual televised tournament on Tiburon, and Old Corkscrew is a Jack Nicholas design. These are tournament quality courses and they are available for daily play for $28.
You must have a coupon book, and I am here to tell you about those. If you are a local you know that not only do we have Greg's annual tournament, but we also have an annual Seniors Event which bounces around to the different venues. When you buy a ticket for each of these events, they also offers a coupon book for discount golf in the summer season at over 30 courses. And that's just two of many discount coupon books available to us.
Other discounts cards are available from the local golf shops. St John Neuman Golf Card is $30 and allows discount play on 36 different courses. The PGA has a card, and so do several online tee time websites. You can play lots of courses in SW Florida for $25-$40.
The golfing season for year round residents starts on May 1st each year and the courses are a smorgasbord of tempting, fattening delights. If you have any friends who are members at local golf clubs, the summer is also the 'reciprocal' season. Other courses allow members from other clubs to play their clubs for a reduced rate.
We spent the winter paying $75 to $200 to play these same courses during the 'season.' Now that the 'off season' has arrived, we can play for $25- $40 practically anywhere.
So far since May 1st, The Rookery had the nicest fairways and greens we have seen this entire drought year in our area. The grass was so plush at this course, I wanted to replace the divot rather than fill it with sand from the cart. The greens were actually green, and fast. Play this course if you want a great experience. Old Corkscrew has new personnel and they even have a summer member package which is comparable to many of the local favorites. If you are a golfer, SW Florida is paradise.
If you are bored with your regular foursome, and are a member at Old Collier, Naples National, Naples Grande, Grey Oaks, Mediterra, Pelican Bay, Bay Colony, Olde Florida, Audubon, Royal Poinciana, Hole in the Wall, and of course Calusa Pines, my three-some will buy your lunch, pay our own fees and give you a heck of a match. Call me.
Greg Norman has his annual televised tournament on Tiburon, and Old Corkscrew is a Jack Nicholas design. These are tournament quality courses and they are available for daily play for $28.
You must have a coupon book, and I am here to tell you about those. If you are a local you know that not only do we have Greg's annual tournament, but we also have an annual Seniors Event which bounces around to the different venues. When you buy a ticket for each of these events, they also offers a coupon book for discount golf in the summer season at over 30 courses. And that's just two of many discount coupon books available to us.
Other discounts cards are available from the local golf shops. St John Neuman Golf Card is $30 and allows discount play on 36 different courses. The PGA has a card, and so do several online tee time websites. You can play lots of courses in SW Florida for $25-$40.
The golfing season for year round residents starts on May 1st each year and the courses are a smorgasbord of tempting, fattening delights. If you have any friends who are members at local golf clubs, the summer is also the 'reciprocal' season. Other courses allow members from other clubs to play their clubs for a reduced rate.
We spent the winter paying $75 to $200 to play these same courses during the 'season.' Now that the 'off season' has arrived, we can play for $25- $40 practically anywhere.
So far since May 1st, The Rookery had the nicest fairways and greens we have seen this entire drought year in our area. The grass was so plush at this course, I wanted to replace the divot rather than fill it with sand from the cart. The greens were actually green, and fast. Play this course if you want a great experience. Old Corkscrew has new personnel and they even have a summer member package which is comparable to many of the local favorites. If you are a golfer, SW Florida is paradise.
If you are bored with your regular foursome, and are a member at Old Collier, Naples National, Naples Grande, Grey Oaks, Mediterra, Pelican Bay, Bay Colony, Olde Florida, Audubon, Royal Poinciana, Hole in the Wall, and of course Calusa Pines, my three-some will buy your lunch, pay our own fees and give you a heck of a match. Call me.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
Serious Fun
We are a people inspired to help others in need. No matter the cause, especially, when those in need are among us. It tugs at your heart. The Naples Area Board of Realtors (NABOR) Golf Outing was an example of this. We found a group in need and our members responded in kind, and had great fun doing it.
This golf event, which this year, 2009, had a sellout of 116 golfers at Olde Cypress CC, originally started as a reward and respite for our Realtor members, but has evolved into the dual role of also supporting a local charity.
In the worst economy we have faced in many years, our event raised a record $21,272 for our chosen charity, The Naples Equestrian Challenge, Inc. (www.naplesequestrianchallenge.org/). Our sponsors also opened their hearts and checkbooks to help.
There are so many causes, and they are hard to choose from. Every cause is great to those who live it. NEC uses equine therapy for clients with mobility problems, such as Autism, Down Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Head Trauma, Brain Injury, Spina Bifida and more.
Zach Rosenberg, a lively red-haired second grader has Apraxia, a disease which affects his non-speech and speech movement. The three dimensional motion of the horse stimulates his nerves and improves his posture and confidence so he can be mainstreamed with other children his age, helping him to become a 'typical kid,' according to his mother.
Tiffany Billings, a sophomore at Naples High, could not walk in 1999 before coming to NEC. now Tiffany is, as she says in her personal bio, "running around campus and making A's & B's."
Steve Nolan, a 41 year old rider with Cerebral Palsy who has not been able to ride since the first of the year, 2009, due to safety reasons of mounting the horses. He will benefit directly, by being the first to use the portable ramp and electric lift, which will be purchased using the money we raised. These stories and more, made it real for all of us.
Using a golf term, Zack, Tiffany and Steve all got a 'bad bounce' in life. NEC and the NABOR Golf Committee are giving them a 'mulligan' of sorts. Our committee was proud to help. We came for the fun but our hearts made us dig down deep for a good cause.
This outing and response is emblematic of the people on the Naples Area Board of Realtors, their committees, members, employees, and their supporting sponsors and contributors to the NABOR Charity Golf Outing. We thank you for your participation and generosity, NEC thanks you, and Zack, Tiffany and Steve thank you too.
This golf event, which this year, 2009, had a sellout of 116 golfers at Olde Cypress CC, originally started as a reward and respite for our Realtor members, but has evolved into the dual role of also supporting a local charity.
In the worst economy we have faced in many years, our event raised a record $21,272 for our chosen charity, The Naples Equestrian Challenge, Inc. (www.naplesequestrianchallenge.org/). Our sponsors also opened their hearts and checkbooks to help.
There are so many causes, and they are hard to choose from. Every cause is great to those who live it. NEC uses equine therapy for clients with mobility problems, such as Autism, Down Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Head Trauma, Brain Injury, Spina Bifida and more.
Zach Rosenberg, a lively red-haired second grader has Apraxia, a disease which affects his non-speech and speech movement. The three dimensional motion of the horse stimulates his nerves and improves his posture and confidence so he can be mainstreamed with other children his age, helping him to become a 'typical kid,' according to his mother.
Tiffany Billings, a sophomore at Naples High, could not walk in 1999 before coming to NEC. now Tiffany is, as she says in her personal bio, "running around campus and making A's & B's."
Steve Nolan, a 41 year old rider with Cerebral Palsy who has not been able to ride since the first of the year, 2009, due to safety reasons of mounting the horses. He will benefit directly, by being the first to use the portable ramp and electric lift, which will be purchased using the money we raised. These stories and more, made it real for all of us.
Using a golf term, Zack, Tiffany and Steve all got a 'bad bounce' in life. NEC and the NABOR Golf Committee are giving them a 'mulligan' of sorts. Our committee was proud to help. We came for the fun but our hearts made us dig down deep for a good cause.
This outing and response is emblematic of the people on the Naples Area Board of Realtors, their committees, members, employees, and their supporting sponsors and contributors to the NABOR Charity Golf Outing. We thank you for your participation and generosity, NEC thanks you, and Zack, Tiffany and Steve thank you too.
How to have fun in Paradise
If you are here for fun and sun, we hope you enjoy yourself, but remember there are thorns on roses. We have some things to know about our little slice of paradise in SW Florida before you venture out.
1. If you are playing golf or boating the back waters, remember we have four venomous snakes in these parts. Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake, Pygmy Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth and the Coral Snake. When searching for a golf ball off the fairways, I always tell my guests to carry a 'snake stick.' I use a five or six iron as it gives me length and weight. Snakes are generally private creatures and will try to get out of your way, but if you root around in their territory, you might not give them advance warning to do so. Slap the bushes ahead of you as you are looking. Better for them to go after your snake stick than any part of you. If your ball is visible deep in a big bush, use your ball retriever rather than crawling in after it.
2. If you hit a golf ball in or around the water, remember that we have lots of alligators in our swampy area. They keep themselves fed by grabbing prey by the water's edge. Use your retriever, not your hand. Never stick your hand in or near the water for any reason. If your golf ball is easily reachable, you will be too when you bend over to pick it up.
3. We have ticks in our trees. Never lean against a tree while out and about in the wild. They are silent, and can be deadly. If you get seriously ill after being out, ask someone to check you for ticks.
4. Pay attention to lightening. If you see lightening, it is time to come inside. 2000 people have been killed in Florida by lightning since 1960. Our thunderstorms come and go very quickly. Head to the cart barn, grab a sandwich in the grill and the danger will have passed before you finish.
5. Golf Carts are a real convenience, but they can be dangerous and costly to repair. Be extra careful when driving on slopes and down inclines. I have seen them flip over in those situations. You do not want one on top of you. Also A friend I was with recently tried to squeeze between a fence and a large decorative rock. He hit the rock with the front wheel. It bent the wheel sideways and the club eventually charged his credit card $1300 for the repair. Another friend tried to squeeze between a maintenance truck and a tree. He caught the divot sand box on the back fender and ripped it off. They did not charge him because of the maintenance truck.
6. Fire Ants – Very small but very aggressive. When a mound is disturbed, ants emerge aggressively. When they sting, a white sore usually appears the next day at the site of the sting, and can scar you for life. They will attach to your skin using their mandibles and will subsequently inject the stinger. So you see, fire ants bite and sting, but only the sting hurts. I suggest that when you are walking around outside, that you pay attention to where you are standing. If you step on a mound and keep walking then you should be okay, but if you stop, you will discover quickly why they call them fire ants.
Have fun, and remember there was even a snake in Eden. Expect no less here in Paradise.
1. If you are playing golf or boating the back waters, remember we have four venomous snakes in these parts. Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake, Pygmy Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth and the Coral Snake. When searching for a golf ball off the fairways, I always tell my guests to carry a 'snake stick.' I use a five or six iron as it gives me length and weight. Snakes are generally private creatures and will try to get out of your way, but if you root around in their territory, you might not give them advance warning to do so. Slap the bushes ahead of you as you are looking. Better for them to go after your snake stick than any part of you. If your ball is visible deep in a big bush, use your ball retriever rather than crawling in after it.
2. If you hit a golf ball in or around the water, remember that we have lots of alligators in our swampy area. They keep themselves fed by grabbing prey by the water's edge. Use your retriever, not your hand. Never stick your hand in or near the water for any reason. If your golf ball is easily reachable, you will be too when you bend over to pick it up.
3. We have ticks in our trees. Never lean against a tree while out and about in the wild. They are silent, and can be deadly. If you get seriously ill after being out, ask someone to check you for ticks.
4. Pay attention to lightening. If you see lightening, it is time to come inside. 2000 people have been killed in Florida by lightning since 1960. Our thunderstorms come and go very quickly. Head to the cart barn, grab a sandwich in the grill and the danger will have passed before you finish.
5. Golf Carts are a real convenience, but they can be dangerous and costly to repair. Be extra careful when driving on slopes and down inclines. I have seen them flip over in those situations. You do not want one on top of you. Also A friend I was with recently tried to squeeze between a fence and a large decorative rock. He hit the rock with the front wheel. It bent the wheel sideways and the club eventually charged his credit card $1300 for the repair. Another friend tried to squeeze between a maintenance truck and a tree. He caught the divot sand box on the back fender and ripped it off. They did not charge him because of the maintenance truck.
6. Fire Ants – Very small but very aggressive. When a mound is disturbed, ants emerge aggressively. When they sting, a white sore usually appears the next day at the site of the sting, and can scar you for life. They will attach to your skin using their mandibles and will subsequently inject the stinger. So you see, fire ants bite and sting, but only the sting hurts. I suggest that when you are walking around outside, that you pay attention to where you are standing. If you step on a mound and keep walking then you should be okay, but if you stop, you will discover quickly why they call them fire ants.
Have fun, and remember there was even a snake in Eden. Expect no less here in Paradise.
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