Charles Ray
I ve been a free lance writer since the late 1960s. I have also published two books on leadership, Things I Learned From My Grandmother about Leadership and Life, and Taking Charge. I published my first novel, a mystery, Color Me Dead, as an e-book. It, and other e-books formerly on lebrary.com are now available in electronic format for either Kindle or Nook. My books are also available in paperback through Amazon.com and other retail book outlets or through links at http://charlesaray.blogspot.com. I served in the US Army for 20 years (1962-1982), and after retirement, joined the U.S. Foreign Service. I have now retired from government service and am based in North Potomac, Maryland.
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Benedictine College, BS in Business Administration; University of Southern California, MS in Systems Management; National Defense University, MS in National Security StrategyMotto
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Visit Cameroon: The Crossroads of AfricaCameroon, in West-Central Africa, is a francophone country with its own unique flavor. Centrally located in the hump of West Africa, it serves as a crossroads and melting pot for many African and European cultures. -
Come to the Washington, DC Area for Golf Not GovernmentKnown for government, the DC area is also home to hundreds of quality golf courses. Some are very expensive, while others are great if you're on a budget. -
Ebogo Tourist Village: Cameroon's Model for Sustainable DevelopmentLocated near Cameroon's capital of Yaounde, Ebogo Eco-Tourist Village is a self-sustaining model for Africa's economic development -
Dearborn, Michigan: The Town that Ford BuiltHome of Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Michigan is also home to a museum of American history that is unparalleled. -
A Gastronomic Tour of CameroonCameroon is the crossroads of Africa, and this is reflected in its cuisine, one of the most varied on the African continent. -
Monkey Business: Cameroonian Project Provides Sanctuary to PrimatesWith help from the international community, Cameroon's Mefu Primate Sanctuary seeks to halt the decline of species of apes in the country -
Tombstone, Arizona: The Town Too Tough to DieHome of Wyatt Earp and the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, Tombstone, Arizona offers a glimpse of America's Wild West. -
Foreign Affairs Day 2013May 3, 2013 is Foreign Affairs Day in Washington, DC. A day to honor retirees from US foreign affairs agencies, and those who have given their lives while on diplomatic duty. -
What American Needs is a Strong, Professional Diplomatic ServiceIn today's complex, dangerous world, the U.S. can no longer rely on talented amateurs to formulate and implement its foreign policy. A strong, professional diplomatic service is essential. -
Angel Thunder: Air Force's Largest Personnel Recovery ExerciseThe Air Force's Angel Thunder exercise is the world's largest exercise devoted to saving lives. -
There's No "I" in Teamwork -- Why I'm a Great Person to Work ForEstablishing a vision, communicating it and allowing subordinates to do more than they thought they were capable of are the elements of being a great boss.
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Golf Travel: Try Your Swing on These 5 Southern Africa CoursesAfrica is not just a place for game safaris. Southern Africa in particular offers a unique golfing experience. -
We Control Ownership and Operation of Automobiles - Why Not Guns?It's time to stop hiding behind the Second Amendment, and acknowledge the need to have sensible, rational control of guns in American society.
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6 Exercises for a Fan's Spring TrainingJust because you're a couch-bound fan doesn't mean you can't be as fit as the stars on your favorite teams. Try these six exercises to keep a fit body all season long. -
President Has Spoken on Gun Control; Now the Public Must Echo that CallThe President, in the SOTU address, made sense on the need for gun control, but will Congress pay attention?
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Reaching for the Sky: My Financial Goals for 2013Even though retired, I've decided there's no reason I can't make more money. Fixed income is for losers. -
Clinton, Baker Launch Diplomacy Museum in WashingtonConceived in 1999, the US Diplomacy Center and Museum is closer to reality now that enough funds have been raised to permit construction to start. -
What the President Should Say in His Inaugural AddressIt's the economy, and we Americans aren't stupid. We need some clear direction, and it needs to come from the top. -
Foggy Bottom: a Look at a Different Washington, DCWashington, DC is thought to be a city of monuments and government buildings, but Foggy Bottom preserves traces of the city's industrial heritage.
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Advance Preparations Ease Worries About Flu EpidemicMy family got our flu shots early, so even if an epidemic hits, we're probably okay.
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Ways to Shed Holiday Pounds In and Around Washington, D.C.The Washington, D.C., area is an eater's paradise, especially during the holidays. Here are five ways that D.C.-area residents can avoid weight gain and even shed unwanted pounds.
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Before the Apocalypse: My 4 Doomsday Resolutions for HumanityAccording to the Mayan Calendar, December 21, 2012 is the end of things as we know them. Just in case that's true, here are a few things I'd like to see the world do before we turn out the lights.
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Hyped Claims About Language Learning ContinueThe ads claiming you can learn a language in 10 days are still flooding my mail box. I tested the theory and found, as I suspected, they are greatly overblown.
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Penang: Pearl of the OrientWhile Penang's beaches aren't as scenic as the rest of Malaysia, the 'food paradise' still has a lot to offer.
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Kansas: Where the West Begins and EndsA state since 1861, Kansas is truly America's heartland. Natural beauty, with areas that look like they did more than 200 years ago, it is also an important component in American history.
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10 U.S. Destinations You Simply Must Visit If You Want to Understand the United StatesThe U.S. is diverse, culturally and geographically. A visit to these ten locations will illustrate just how true this statement is.
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12/12/12 Photo: A Date With a Dozen PeculiaritiesThe next numerically interesting date will be long after most of us are gone. Here's a photographic interpretation of Dec. 12, 2012
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Bucket List: 10 International Destinations You Have to Visit Before You DieI had a bucket list long before the movie 'Bucket List' was even thought of. Ten places in the world that, as a child, I vowed to visit. Nine down, one to go.
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Washington, D.C., 2012 Holiday Window Displays: From Gaudy to SimplisticStores in the Washington, D.C., area have unveiled Christmas window displays to lure customers in for some holiday shopping.
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Twelve Days of Dallas Cowboys' ChristmasIt ain't art, and it won't go platinum, but here's my tribute to the Cowboys - and I hope the creator of 'The 12 Days of Christmas' will forgive me.
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Top 10 Holiday Stocking-Stuffers for the Sports Fans on Your ListIf you're shopping for a sports fan this holiday, here are 10 items you should definitely consider.
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Hillary in 2016: America's First Woman PresidentThe 2012 Elections are over; time to start thinking about 2016. My vote goes to Hillary Clinton.
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Shenyang, China: From Industrial Slag Heap to Delightful DestinationFrom a polluted backwater in the 1980s, Shenyang, China has transformed itself into an interesting place to get to know China's ancient history.
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Lake Kariba: a Great Place for Thanksgiving or Any Other HolidayLake Kariba, on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, is one of the world's largest man-made lakes, and a great place to spend a holiday.
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Quick Guide to Brooklyn: a Respectable Destination That Gets No RespectThe largest of NYC's boroughs, Brooklyn lives in the shadow of its neighbor Manhattan. This home to many ethnic groups and a wide range of cultures is, though, definitely worth a look see.
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The Die and the Votes Are Cast - Election Day 2012Election Day 2012 in Montgomery County, Maryland was quiet. No long lines, no electioneering - just quiet casting of ballots.
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I Voted in the 2012 Elections - What About You?Voting in Montgomery County, Maryland is easy. No ID required if you're registered, and the machines work the first time.
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Photos: The Election in Maryland: Pink at the Extremes, Blue with a Touch of Purple at the CenterThe 2012 election hasn't spawned the signs and bumper stickers that appeared in 2008, and allegiances are hard to spot. Red areas show some support for Obama and Blue areas have Romney supporters.
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Hiking the Shenandoah Mountains - Equal Parts Pleasure and PainA great weekend retreat, for some good exercise and fantastic scenery, is a hike up the Shenandoah Mountains in Virginia's Shenandoah National Park.
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The Right-wing Rape of the American MindFar right politicians have taken some outrageous stands on rape, history, and a host of other things. It's not about sex, but control; control over the minds of America
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Remembering Norodom SihanoukTo many, Norodom Sihanouk was an unpredictable king/politician who was involved in his country's affairs for 70 years. To me, he was something entirely different.
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Zanzibar: A Trip to the PastLocated in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of East Africa, the islands of Zanzibar offer visitors a glimpse of he region's past, combined with warm hospitality and luxury.
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Charleston, SC - You Can Get There From AnywhereCharleston, South Carolina, is one of the state's oldest and most historic cities. Its historical buildings, pristine beaches, and Southern hospitality make it a must-visit destination.
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How to Barter in Southeast AsiaUnlike the West, where fixed prices are the norm, Southeast Asia is still a place where you can name your own price for the things you buy.
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A Day Trip From Washington, D.C., to New York CityNew York City might not be thought of as a day-trip from Washington, D.C., but on Amtrak, the stores of Fifth Avenue make it like a trip to the local mall.
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Break that Nasty HabitTexting has become a global epidemic. It's time we broke the habit cold turkey, don't you think?
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National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 2012Each September, the Defense Department holds a ceremony at the Pentagon to honor service members captured or unaccounted for in the country's wars.
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I Pay My Fair Share of Taxes, Mr. Romney: What About You?In a speech before a group of wealthy donors, Mitt Romney described the 47% of voters who supported Obama as people who think they're entitled to government support and who don't 'pay taxes.'
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Has Romney Gone Off the RailsIs Mitt Romney's response to the tragic attack in Benghazi that killed the U.S. Ambassador a signal of a man who is clueless about international relations or foreign policy?
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Amsterdam - Not What It Once Was, But Still Ain't BadAmsterdam got the reputation as an 'anything goes' city in the 1960s, when the liberal counter-culture took hold. City fathers have tried to clean up the image by toning down explicit displays for the past decade or so, but it still rocks.
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A Day on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.There are a lot of things you can do in a day in Washington, D.C., but there's no better way to spend the day than visiting the National Mall.
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Three Vietnam War MIA's Receive Heroes' Burial - After Being Missing for 43 YearsThree Vietnam War Special Forces Soldiers, missing since November 3, 1969, were identified and buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on August 30, 2012.
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Washington, D.C. - A Starting Point for Day TripsWashington, D.C., is a great place to visit, but it's also a good jumping-off point for some interesting day trips. Here are my three favorites.
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How Cape Town Taught Me the Secret of a Great One-Day TourBusiness travelers who are pressed for time can still have a great visit to a city like Cape Town. The secret is simple: Take a city bus tour.
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Try Hawaii for the Poi-fect VacationOur 50th state is an island paradise, just five hours flight from the US mainland. From surfing to stuffing your gut with roast pig and poi, it has something for everyone.
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Zimbabwe's Matobo Hills - A Giant's PlaygroundMatobo Hills, in Zimbabwe's southwest, with rock formations that are weird and unique, look like the playground of some giant child who has been messy with his toys.
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"Red Tails": Not an Award Winner, But, I Liked ItGeorge Lucas' recent release, 'Red Tails,' the story of the famed Tuskegee Airmen of WWII, hasn't been received well by many critics, but it will resonate with anyone who has had experience in war.
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Great Zimbabwe: Stone Houses of Zimbabwe's Past Shape Its Present and FutureBuilt during the 11th to 15th century, the stone monuments of Great Zimbabwe inspired a revolution and continue to inspire generations of Zimbabweans.
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Salinas, California: Steinbeck CountryJust 8 miles from the Atlantic, Salinas, California, home of award-winning author John Steinbeck, is great to visit or use as an economical base to see other places in central California.
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A Breakup that Broke MeMarried the first time for 8 years, I was blindsided when my wife decided to dump me. In addition to the emotional breakup, it broke me financially for over a decade.
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My Transition from Military to Civilian Life: It Ain't Over YetJoining the army at 17, fresh off the farm, I made the transition easily. After 20 years, I moved from uniformed to civilian government service; a difficult transition. Thirty years later, I'm preparing to make the final transition to civilian life.
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Carthage, TX: The Most Famous Town You've Never Heard OfA little town of about 7,000 people, Carthage, Texas, has spawned many of country music's most famous stars.
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Tee Off in Zimbabwe for a Golf Trip With a DifferencePeople think of Zimbabwe mostly for its often turbulent politics, but it offers a unique experience for the traveling golfer.
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Veteran: Not Remembering My Service, but that of OthersI served 20 years in the Army, but on Memorial Day, I think about the service and sacrifices of others.
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My Military Career - Twenty Years of Fun and Excitement, with a Little Service Along the WayIn 1962, with no good job prospects in segregated Texas, I decided to join the army and see the world. Well, see the world I did, and had fun along the way for 20 exciting and fun filled years.
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My Video Game Addiction: How I Recognized It, and Then Kicked the HabitI don't do drugs or smoke cigarettes, so I never thought of myself as an addict, until I realized that I was addicted to video games. It took a crisis to help me recognize and kick the habit.
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France's Sarkozy Facing Political OblivionUnemployment and economic decline are causing France's Nicolas Sarkozy political problems, and could cost him the presidency. Believe it or not, the French election has lessons for Americans.
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Texas Hill Country: Home to Naval Heroes and a PresidentStretching from Crockett County in the west to Austin in the east, Texas Hill Country is home to much of the state's history, naval hero Chester Nimitz, and some of the best German beer outside Germany.
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Sierra Leone: From War to Peace, It's Rough but Ready for VisitorsAfter decades of civil war, Sierra Leone is still one of the poorest countries in the world. But it is rich in warmth and spirit and a great place for the traveler who doesn't mind roughing it a bit.
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Antelope Park, Zimbabwe: Where the Intrepid Can Walk with LionsLocated near the central Zimbabwean town of Gweru, Antelope Park is a lion rehabilitation facility that offers a glimpse of life on the African savannah.
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Cape Town: Where South Africa's History Comes AliveFounded as supply depot in the 1600s, Cape Town is the most beautiful city in southern Africa.
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SXSW Is Not the Only Reason to Visit Austin, TexasEveryone thinks of Austin in terms of SXSW, but the Live Music Capital of the World is a great place to visit year-round.
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First Person: Facebook's IPO Shouldn't Really Affect Everyday UsersFacebook's announcement of the largest ever Internet IPO has generated a lot of conversation. Except for potential stockholders, though, it really shouldn't matter.
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An Unusual Spring Vacation: Visit Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba in Binga for a Romantic InterludeMost people don't think of Africa as a romantic destination, but despite the political uncertainty, Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba area is one of the safest, most relaxing destinations imaginable.
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Angels with Claws: Military Search and Rescue Specialists Are There when You Need ThemThe military's search and rescue specialists are called "Guardian Angels," but these angels have teeth and claws, and to people in need of help in dangerous areas, they're one of the best things you could ever see.
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Pack Your Swimsuit and Head to Fort Lauderdale This FebruaryTired of ice and snow in February? Get a jump on Spring Break with a trip to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
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Take a Game Safari and Return to an Air-conditioned Hotel Room: Visit Harare This FebruaryTake a photo safari and get great shots of rhinos, zebras, and a whole host of other wild game, just an hour from downtown Harare. Zimbabwe's politics still suck, but it's a great place for a vacation.
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The DevourerIs there other intelligent life in the universe? If so, what is its nature? Do we really want to know?
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Boracay Beach and Beyond: Visit the Philippines This SpringAsia can be a great place for a spring vacation, and the Philippines should top your spring destination list. From Boracay Beach to the crater lake of Mount Pinatubo, there's something for every taste.
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Romance in Some Unlikely Places: 3 Great International Destinations for a Valentine's Day TripFor a Valentine's Day trip abroad, forget about Paris. Here are three places you might not think of, but once you visit, you'll never forget.
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A Great Spring Destination That's Far Away, but Close to Home: Visit ColombiaAfter decades of violence and war, Colombia is once again becoming a great tourist destination. An equatorial country with varied climate and amazing diversity, it's an often overlooked place that's a must to see.
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Altus, Arkansas: A Touch of Switzerland in the OzarksAltus, Arkansas is a small town, but it has a big history. Settled by Swiss-German immigrants in the 1800s, it has established itself as the 'Wine Capital of Arkansas.'
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Namibia: Deserts, Wildlife, and a Headless GhostNamibia, a former German colony in southern Africa, has a lot to offer the adventurous traveler. Some of the most unique deserts in the world, and a profusion of wildlife.
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Lexington, Kentucky: The Athens of the WestFounded when the area was still part of Virginia, Lexington, Kentucky is a delight for horse lovers and culture seekers alike.
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Foot in Mouth Disease - Republican Verbal Missteps Continue UnabatedFrom Gingrich's 'food stamp' remarks to Romney's 'I like to fire people' speech, Republican presidential contenders seem intent on finding a permanent home for their feet - in their mouths.
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Preparing for Your First Trip AbroadIf you're getting ready to make your first foreign trip, these helpful hints will take the hassle out of it.
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First Person: I'm Still Expecting a Comfortable RetirementRetirement for me, thanks to a little strategic investing and saving, along with two pensions, will be comfortable, no matter what the economy does.Also published on:
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'The Mentalist' Will Play with Your Mind - If You're Paying Attention"Mentalist" has been on CBS for three years, and shows no signs of its popularity waning. Award winner Simon Baker is unbelievable as Patrick Jane, fake TV psychic turned police consultant.
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"The 41-Year-Old Virgin Who Knocked Up Sarah Marshall and Felt Superbad About It" - the Worse Movie Ever MadeSpoofs of movies are hard to pull off, and spoofing a comedy is a waste of time. "The 41-Year-Old Virgin Who Knocked Up Sarah Marshall and Felt Superbad About It" is a spoof that is 'superbad!'
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Keeping winter bugs at bay: Winter parenting tips to keep your child healthyWinter's a great time, unless you're a parent with a child suffering from cold, flu, or one of the other winter ailments. Here's how to deal with it, though, and bring the wonder back to Winter Wonderland.
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5 Movies Scheduled for Release in Spring 2012 that You Might Want to Pass OnLots of movies scheduled for release in Spring 2012, but not all of them are worth the price of admission. Here are five that I plan to pass on.
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The 5 Best Films Scheduled for Spring 2012 ReleaseWith all the movies scheduled for release in Spring 2012, it can be hard deciding which to see. My five faves should help make that task a little easier.
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Tips for Getting Ready for Spring TravelSpring is only a few weeks away, so it's time to start planning that spring trip. A few tips to take the hassle out of your spring travel.
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T'was the Night BeforeEver wonder where mythic figures come from. Well, read on for a twist on one of our favorite characters.
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The Warmth of WinterEven though the winter is cold, with love, there is warmth.
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A Modern Christmas CarolChristmas, seen through modern eyes.
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My Ultimate Sports Memorabilia - Unusual for an American, It's a Cricket JerseyAmericans, in general, know little or nothing about cricket. But, for this American, a set of cricket memorabilia; bat, ball, and jersey; are the greatest memorabilia I've collected in five decades of amassing sports items.
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Mitt Romney Gets the Des Moines Register Endorsement in Iowa GOP RaceIowa's largest newspaper, the Des Moines Register, endorses Mitt Romney ahead of the January Caucuses, despite his not spending much time or money in the state. Will this help him erase Newt Gingrich's lead in that state? Only time will tell.
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San Francisco: A Small, but Diverse City with Something for EveryoneSan Francisco is small, but its diversity offers as much stimulation to visitors as cities five times its size. From the largest population of Chinese outside Asia to remnants of the 50s hippie culture, it's a place that will delight and entertain.
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Bulawayo: Zimbabwe's 'City of Kings'Founded in 1893, Bulawayo was long Zimbabwe's industrial hub. The second-largest city in the country, it is still a hub for seeing some of southern Africa's most intriguing sights.
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Perry's Anti-Gay Campaign Ad Could Be a Back-breakerIn his latest campaign ad, Perry comes out against gays in the military. Unfortunately, he was dressed in the wrong clothing for credibility.
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Reflecting on Service in VietnamI served 20 years in the Army, including two tours in the Vietnam War. I've never regretted having served, but the main thing I got out of it was a healthy disdain for the bureaucracy.
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If Cain Can't, Then Who Will?Herman Cain announced today that he will not continue his run for the GOP nomination. What is this likely to mean for the Presidential race? Only time will tell.
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Tenerife: A Jewel in the AtlanticThe largest of the seven Canary Islands, Tenerife offers the best of traditional Canarian culture, amazing scenery, and hospitality, with a modern touch.
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Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia - Where America's History BeganEstablished in the 1600s, Williamsburg was once capital of the Virginia Colony, and was the center of political activity leading to the American Revolution. Today, that era is recreated to educate and entertain visitors.
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Why I Don't Celebrate ThanksgivingI've spent Thanksgiving on four continents over the past four decades. I don't really do anything special on that day - except eat - and if you read on, you'll see why.
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Farewell, Friend, FarewellChong, my pet Peke of 9 years, suddenly fell ill and died. The pain was as much as when my mother died.
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3 Interesting Places to Spend Christmas in the U.S.For a Christmas vacation with a difference, consider these three US locales for a Yule season you'll not soon forget.
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Is the GOP Suffering a Meltdown?Republican presidential candidates have been tripping on their tongues lately, not exactly helping their standing with voters, and a couple of key Republican ballot initiatives have been shot down in flames.
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Three Unusual, but Fun International Destinations to Celebrate ChristmasYou might think Christmas at home is the way to go, but these three international destinations will give you a Christmas you'll never forget.
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Great Texas A&M Jerseys for Christmas 2011For that college football fanatic on your Christmas list, a replica jersey makes a great gift. Here are five picks from my favorite team, the Texas A&M Aggies.Also published on:
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New York Yankees Jerseys: Great Gifts for Christmas 2011For the diehard sports fan, there's probably no better gift than an MLB authentic or replica jersey to evoke memories of the history of his favorite team.
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My 3 Favorite Foreign Countries in Which to Celebrate Turkey DayThanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it is quintessentially American. I don't have to be in America, though, to enjoy it.
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Tucson: Gateway to the WestTucson is a gateway to some of southern Arizona's most beautiful scenery and is a great vacation destination. It offers a view of the Old West as well as modern culture, arts, with a small town atmosphere and big city convenience.
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Agra: A Tarnished Jewel in India's 'Golden Triangle"Agra is a sprawling, unkempt city, but the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort make enduring the crowds worth it.
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Boeing's New 787 DreamlinerBoeing's 787, after three trouble-plagued years, made its first passenger flight on Oct. 26. from Tokyo to Hong Kong, and plans to put the plane into general service soon. Whether the problems with the plane have been solved is yet to be known.
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Eugene, Oregon - "Leave it to Beaver" ReduxOregon has a reputation on the West Coast of not welcoming strangers, but Eugene, the state's second largest city, is an exception to the rule.
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Paris, Texas - You Have to Visit it to Believe ItFounded in 1845, Paris, Texas is billed as the second largest Paris in the world, and it's the only one with a statue of Jesus wearing cowboy boots.
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Stockholm: The City in the Land of the Midnight Sun750 years old, Stockholm is a blend of medieval and modern. A thoroughly enjoyable city to visit.
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Mana Pools - One of Nature's Last Unspoiled Wilderness AreasLocated along the banks of the Zambezi River, the 2000 sq km Mana Pools National Park is a treasure trove of wild life and walking trails.
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Sarah Palin Decides Not to Run in 2012 - Finally a Wise DecisionSarah Palin has decided not to contest the 2012 Presidential election. A wise decision for her and a good outcome for the country.
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Vientiane: Sleepy Capital on the MekongVientiane, Laos is the sleepiest, slowest moving city in Southeast Asia, but interesting sights and friendly people make it a nice place to visit.
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Santa Marta: a Cozy Caribbean RetreatSanta Marta is the oldest Spanish settlement in Colombia. Once famed for its gold smiths, it is now still a great place for visitors to the southern hemisphere.
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Chiang Mai - Thailand's Most Underrated CityChiang Mai, the Rose of the North, is a great place in Thailand for the solo traveler. It has everything that Bangkok has - without the traffic.
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Kleve: Where Germans Meet the DutchKleve has played a large part in German history, but, except for history buffs has been largely forgotten. A city of warmth and traditional charm, it will captivate the adventurous traveler.
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Red Sky at DawningHe was cut off from his patrol; alone in the jungle with the tall tales he'd been told back at base - or, where they true?
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Tswalu: Where the Rich and Famous Go to Enjoy NatureNicky Oppenheimer's Tswalu Game Reserve offers the wealthy a chance to see nature up close while at the same time supporting his effort to restore the Kalahari 'to what it once was.'
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Baltimore: A Sleeper that Should Be a Keeper on Your List of Places to VisitMy first time in Baltimore in the 1960s wasn't all that impressive, but when I came back 20 years later, it had transformed itself into the least-known, but neatest places on the east coast to visit.
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My Weekly Exercise Program that Will Keep You Younger LookingBusy people, as they age, need exercise, but their jobs sometimes get in the way. This weekly exercise program, though, can fit into any schedule, works for any age, and will help keep you fitter and younger looking.
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Gnomeo & Juliet: a Stone Good MovieDisney's "Gnomeo & Juliet" is a funny adaptation of Shakespeare's tale of star-crossed lovers caught up in a family feud. A must-see movie for young and old alike.
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Playing it by Ear - My Unplanned Military CareerI joined the army to qualify for the GI Bill, and had no intention of making it a career. I woke up one morning nearly 20 years later and realized that I'd been having so much fun, I'd neglected to get out.
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Lazy, Hazy DaysSummertime is here. Time to think about doing a lot of nothing.
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Goodnight, IreneHurricane season is upon us again
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A First Visit to London Whetted My Appetite for MoreI'm no anglophile, but having read Dickens, I've always been fascinated by London. My first visit in 1996 has only increased that fascination.
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Tracking a White Rhino: when My Heart was Faster Than the Shutter SpeedI've been a nature photographer for decades, but getting a shot of a white rhino bull in Zimbabwe was the closest I've ever been to true 'wild' life photography.
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From the Mall to Manasas: Using Public Transportation to Tour the Washington, DC AreaWashington, DC and the surrounding areas have a lot to see and do, and you don't need to worry about driving and parking to enjoy things. The public transport system, Washington's Metro, lets you go just about anywhere and do anything.
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Kep City - One of Cambodia's Best Kept SecretsKep, a coastal town founded in 1908, is a Mecca for seafood lovers, and it's just a four-hour drive from Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital.
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Sept. 11, 2001, Bought Out Patriotism in Civilian ColleaguesAs a 20-year army veteran who'd been retired for 19 years, I always felt like an outsider in the civil service. Then, 9/11 brought out the patriot in my colleagues, and I realized that I wasn't alone.
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Zimbabwe's National Cricket Team Passes Its First TestIn its first full test match in six years, the Zimbabwe national cricket team posted 13-run victory over visiting Bangladesh - a repeat of their last encouner in 2005.
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Zimbabwe Faces Off Against Bangladesh in Test CricketIn its return to test cricket, Zimbabwe's national team defeats Bangladesh in Harare.
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A Renewed Commitment to Global EngagementSitting in a Seattle hotel room, I watched my world come down like the Trade Towers. No longer could we delude ourselves into thinking our military power and wealth was all the protection we needed.
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Zimbabwe - Australia Cricket CompetitionFor the first time in 8 years, Australia sends a cricket team to play in Zimbabwe.
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Zimbabwe Returns to International Test CricketIsolated for years from international test cricket because of internal problems and political instability, Zimbabwe returns to the field this year - hungry for victory and recognition.
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Cricket is No Game for SissiesI never thought of cricket as a real sport until I watched the second day of a four-day match. These guys are the real deal, and have to be mentally tough and physically fit to play the darned game.
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Is War the Answer?A plea for sanity in a world beset by war and strife.
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Last PatrolWar, as any soldier who has been in combat knows, is hell. War consists of many hours of boredom interrupted on occasion by moments of sheer terror.
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Elephant Hills, Victoria Falls, ZimbabweWhen you play at Elephant Hills Golf Course in Zimbabwe it's hard to know if you're playing a game or on a game safari. Sand traps and water holes are not the only hazards on this picturesque course.
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Between Texas and Hell; In Summer, It's Hard to ChooseDriving from the Rio Grande Valley to Houston, Texas in the summertime is a fool's errand. This fool did it once - but, never again!
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O. Henry: America's Best Short Story WriterWilliam Sydney Porter, better known to readers as O. Henry, wrote hundreds of short stories. While serving a prison sentence in Ohio for embezzlement, he still managed to get his stories published to the delight of his readers.
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What?A little bit of country, a whole lot of hard rock and roll - oh, what the hey!
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Oh, to a Summer DaySummer is a time of contrast - we just love to hate it, don't we?
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Castle Tankard Reborn in ZimbabweCancelled in 2007 because of political violence, Castle Tankard horse race returned to Harare on May 21, 2011.
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The Dell XPS M1530: the Best Laptop I've Ever OwnedWhen it came out in 2007, the Dell XPS M1530 was one of the slimmest laptops on the market; responding to user complaints about the clunky, heavier older models. The M1530 also offered a number of cutting edge features.
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My 1965 Ford Mustang - Best Vehicle I Ever OwnedThe first car I ever bought was a 1965 white hardtop Ford Mustang. She stayed with me from Oklahoma to Germany and back to Georgia, and I still love that car.
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Top 10 Movies for Summer 2011Major studios and Indies alike have a ton of movies slated for summer release. Here are the 10 I rate as must-see for summer viewing pleasure.
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One-Eyed Cats and Night SweatsThe mind is a strange thing that plays strange tricks.
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Scenes from Castle Tankard 2011Begun in 1960, Castle Tankard was suspended in 2007 because of political violence. On May 21, 2011, it returned to Zimbabwe.
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The Top 10 Albums for the SummerThe music industry has a ton of releases scheduled for summer 2011. Here are my top 10 album choices for discriminating music lovers.
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Where the West BeganWorking on a cattle ranch is physically demanding, and mentally challenging. A lot of our myths came from this lonely existence - really, folks, I would not lie to you.
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Take a Moment to Say ThanksThrough the centuries, many have given their all for the freedoms we enjoy. This Memorial Day, take a moment to honor their sacrifices.
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Note to an Absent FatherA lot of kids will celebrate father's day with that figure conspicuously absent.
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The Three Faces of EvilA young boy learns that the world is not what he thinks one day when he goes hunting in the swamp.
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Near Retirement, Gov't Worker Will Forgo MedicareCongress, specifically Rep. Paul Ryan, is considering replacing Medicare for some seniors with a private voucher system. No one is sure it will work, and one wonders if they really care.
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Mirror, MirrorBuzz Kildare, owner of Kildare's Recycling Emporium, a space junkyard, uses his wits to save the galaxy from the dreaded Drach.
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Stonehenge: an Ancient Monument that Impresses Across CulturesI read about Stonehenge as a 7-year old, and vowed to someday visit. I didn't get there until I was past 40, but it impressed me as much as it did the first time i saw a picture of this ancient ring of stones.
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Contemplating the Darkening SkyWhat must go through the minds of African villagers who live under primitive conditions?
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How I Long for Days Gone ByThe 1950s were, when compared to the present day, days of absolute innocence.
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Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) 2011 to Feature US Gypsy Funk BandThe New York-based Gypsy Funk Soul Band Slavic Soul Party will be one of the featured performers at HIFA 2011 in Harare.
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Let's Focus on the General WelfareThe Founding Fathers, when they wrote the Second Amendment, didn't intend for every nut with a dark fantasy to be able to get a gun to carry it out.
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Mother Earth AwakesA love poem for my greatest love - Mother Earth.
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Walking in the Woods with Tiger - My Favorite Athlete of All TimeMany people have sworn off Tiger Woods since his marital problems and his winless seaons since returning to golf, but I'd give anything to spend a day on the course with him.
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Talking to a Legend: an Evening with Edwin MosesA chance encounter with track legend Edwin Moses at a reception in Cambodia was the high point of my life.
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My Fondest Little League MemoryAssigned to coach a Little League team made up of kids who had never played baseball before, I learned a lesson about sportsmanship and winning that has been with me ever since.
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How My Family Prepares to Cope with Natural DisastersThe area where I live is subject to heavy snow storms, possible flooding, and the occasional tornado. Here's how my family copes.
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The Day I Should Have Died: My Last Tour in Vietnam Almost Turned Out to Be My "last"December 6, 1972, when the VC shelled Tan Son Nhut Air Base in Saigon, I should have been busy at work behind my desk, but for some unknown reason, I'd decided to play hooky from work. That act saved my life.
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The Composers I'd Want to Write the Score for My MovieMy dream movie, an adaptation of one of my mystery novels, would require a dream team of composers to really bring it to life on the screen. Blanchard and Zimmer have the right suite of skills and experience to do that.
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3 Meditation Techniques to Jump Start Your DayMeditation is a great way to ease morning muscle stiffness and pain. These three techniques, requiring no special equipment or facility, will help get your day started right.
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Earth Day - Every DayFriday, April 22, 2011 is Earth Day. I plan special activities for that day, but also commit to doing all I can to preserve the Earth every day of the year.
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My Craziest and Funniest April Fool's ExperienceMy secretary slipped an event on my speaking schedule once, sending me to speak on military and foreign affairs to a women's civic group. Imagine my surprise when I walked in on a natural childbirth class.
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America Doesn't Need More Tiger MomsThe harsh, disciplined approach to parenting Amy Chua describes in "Battle Hymn of a Tiger Mother" is great if you want to raise a generation that is good at rote repetition, but does little to encourage individual creativity.
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Pole PositionLouis Dumkowski and Cleatus Washington are settled in the business of making regular loans instead of loan sharking. Two strippers who want ten grand, though, promise to complicate their comfortable lives.
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Then and Now: Thinking About Ronald Reagan's 100th BirthdayWas the USA in a better place because of Ronald Reagan? As a 36-year old contemplating a career change, I didn't think so.
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3 Keys to Living a Healthy LifeLiving a healthy life is something within reach of all of us. It just takes having a healthy outlook and following these three tips.
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The Top 5 External Hard DrivesIf you need more space for files on your computer, consider one of these five external hard drives as part of the solution to your problem.
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The Wrecking CrewLouis Dumkowski, Cleatus Washington, and Vinnie Williams travel from Detroit to New Orleans to see Mardis Gras for the first time. Their introduction to N'Awlins is less than smooth.
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Super, Super, Super BowlI have to fight for the TV set all year long - except Super Bowl Time.
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An Insignificant Event Caused a Significant Change in My LifeYou can let things so occupy your mind that changes in your health can either go unnoticed or ignored. In my case, a scale that winked at me woke me up and caused me to do a complete turn around.
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Guns Don't Kill People, But, People with Guns DoRight wing politicians jealously defend the right of Americans to bear arms. The result, unfortunately, is a society where a Congresswoman can be gunned down while talking to her constituents by a nut who apparently didn't agree with her.
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Black History Month is for EveryoneFrom Pedro Alonso Nino, a black navigator who sailed with Columbus, to Crispus Attucks, one of the first to fall in the American Revolution, blacks have played a key role in American history.
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Prince and the PreacherA child of the streets learns self-respect from an elderly preacher.
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5-Alarm Chili Dogs - a Great Super Bowl MealThis recipe for 5-alarm chili dogs is perfect for eating while watching the Super Bowl, or any other game on TV. They go well with tangy fried onion rings and beer.
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Communications 101 for GuysMen don't understand women, and that's a fact. They also don't know how to communicate with them. Here, though, are a few tips to change all that, and build a better relationship.
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How to Weather Climate ChangeCurrent greenhouse gas emissions will raise the Earth's temperature by two degrees Celsius by the end of the century. This increase in temperature will change things, but it can be survived.
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Dealing with the Passive-Aggressive BossPassive-aggressive behavior in the workplace is corrosive to morale and performance. Passive-aggressive bosses can break the backbone of an organization.
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Running on Empty - One of My Worst Holiday Travel ExperiencesDriving from Taejon to Seoul in an ancient Rambler, I became victim to a nonfunctioning fuel gauge and an empty gas tank. My worst holiday travel experience
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The Rich Get Richer While the Poor Have ChildrenThe wealthiest 1% of Americans control over 30% of the wealth. The question is, is there the political will to correct this gross injustice?
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Palin's FailingsSarah Palin continues to dominate the media with her inane mutterings. Oh God, when will she stop?
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Breaking Zimbabwe's Color Barrier on the Golf CourseJimmy Tavengwa, started golf in his thirties, which is challenge enough. He also happened to be black in Zimbabwe, where many activities in the country were for whites only. His quest: to prove blacks could play golf.
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What to Do when Your Doctor's Bill is Too HighKnowing what doctors should charge for service can be useful if you get a bill that's out of line. It also helps when you negotiate payment with your insurance company.
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I Resolve to Make 2011 a Losing Year - Weight, that IsLosing weight is difficult, but by watching what you eat, exercising properly, and knowing your body type and health status, it can be done. These four principles will help you get rid of ugly fat and keep it off.