So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

The Last Emperor' Signs With Strikeforce

By Ross Everett

Fedor Emelianenko, widely considered the world's best heavyweight MMA fighter, has a new promotional home. After rebuffing the UFC's offer--citing restrictive contractual arrangements--'The Last Emperor' has signed a multi-fight deal with Strikeforce. Terms of the arrangement were not made public, but Fedor will make his debut for Strikeforce this October.

Strikeforce agreed to allow Fedor non-exclusivity outside of North America, allowing him to compete in Japan and elsewhere. They also agreed to enter a co-promotional relationship with M-1 Global. These were the sticking points in Fedor's negotiations with the UFC, and with Strikeforce not having an issue with non-exclusivity or co-promotion a deal was quickly brokered.

Fedor expressed his thoughts after the contract signing was announced:

I am looking forward to going back to work and fighting at the highest level. STRIKEFORCE is a top fight promotion that houses some of the greatest fighters in the world. I am prepared to fight any of them.

Emelianenkos manager, Vadim Finkelchtein observed:

I am very happy and excited about the upcoming collaboration with Strikeforce. We are very pleased that we found a reliable partner and I feel that Strikeforce and M-1 can support each other on many things. This will create big opportunities for both parties to test their fighters against worthy opponents.

Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker had the following comments:

We are extremely excited to have the opportunity to work with M-1 Global and Fedor. Fedor has been the reigning king of MMAs heavyweight division for quite some time now so being able to work with M-1 and Fedor will substantially increase the level of competition amongst the athletes in this weight class.

The UFC's Dana White quickly responded with an obscenity laced statement suggesting that Fedor was choosing to fight "nobodys"for no money by signing with Strikeforce, but thats simply an attempt to put the best spin possible on it for his sycophants in the media. The reality is that with Fedor's stake in M-1 Global the financial terms of the deal are likely as favorable with Strikeforce as with the UFC.

More significantly, Strikeforce has much better television exposure at this point than the #1 US MMA promotion. Strikeforce has a relationship with premium cable giant Showtime, as well as CBS TV. The UFC's only TV exposure is via the 'Spike' cable network.

Whites hysterical comments about the quality of opposition simply aren't true either. Obviously the biggest fight available in the US for Fedor right now would be with UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar, but once you get past him the talent pool in the promotion becomes iffy at best. A fight with Randy Couture would do big business, but theres no guarantee how much longer The Natural will continue his career. The UFC has a couple of talented fighters with wrestling backgrounds in Cain Velasquez and Shane Carwin, but neither man is ready for a fight against Fedor.

Strikeforce has several intriguing fights immediately available for Fedor. Heavyweight prospect Brett Rogers, who knocked out Andrei Arlovski in his last fight, is likely first on deck. The Strikeforce heavyweight belt is currently held by Alistair Overeem, whom mutual opponent Mirko Cro Cop suggests is the one man in the sport capable of defeating Fedor. Fabricio Werdum is a talented veteran of the UFC and PRIDE and may figure into the mix some point as well.

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HGH Pills Benefits - You Can Start To Increase Your HGH Levels Today

By Tom William

As fiction, potions, or youth to know "came fountain is called ". These stories we live an attempt to deceive for long, to go from bad to see you to stay and not aging wrinkles, and to increase sexual desire a better sleep, better overall physical condition to ensure escape. The above-mentioned, and only some of the benefits of HGH (human growth hormone for a) short and those products can trigger or enhancer took the body more successful delaying the effectiveness of HGH levels proves natural process of aging them s permission to live a full life.

HGH by the pituitary gland secreted a natural hormone, is located in the center of the brain. When you get older, reduced levels of these hormones. Because these levels, this means that the aging signs become more obvious what happens with a drop-style effects of aging were established.

The use of HGH to improve our products, so it becomes useful. You should know that supplements enhancer most non-prescription contain only vegetable ingredients and not the hormone itself. However, if you want to purchase the hormone synthesized and is available as an injection, which can cost up to $ 10,000 a year and must be managed by a professional.

After triggering the enhanced benefits of HGH have experienced people who demonstrated a few months or consume extra amplifier. , This is a product supplied by a reputable company, ideal for a client with legal advice and refund guarantee a successful product purchased is essential to record what preferences.

And in so doing, he would have avoided one of the most common errors committed by others when buying or using HGH supplements.

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Free Agent Lamar Odom Returns To The Lakers

By Ross Everett

After a month long free agency soap opera, both Lamar Odom and the Los Angeles Lakers got what they really wanted all along. The Lakers retained the services of their valuable sixth man, and Odom will return to the team after an intense recruiting pitch from the Miami Heat. On Friday, Odom officially signed his new contract with the NBA Champions thus insuring that the nucleus of the roster will remain intact.

Terms of the deal werent immediately released, but both player and team appeared relieved that things had worked out. In early July, negotiations broke down after some miscommunication between Odoms agent and Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss. While Odom worked to mend fences"including several personal phone calls to Dr. Buss"his agent was receiving interest from a number of teams. Miami, in particular, was extremely interest bringing out some heavy hitters including Dwayne Wade and Pat Riley to make a recruiting pitch.

Ultimately, however, Odom couldnt come up with a compelling reason to leave his situation in Los Angeles. At the official signing ceremony, he hinted that a dynasty could be in the making:

"I guess basketball-wise, I feel complete. I want to feel it again. It's kind of an overwhelming feeling. I get goose bumps when I think about it, and as long as I continue to play professional basketball, I want to always feel that. The way I feel during the summer, I always want to feel that. If we can win six, seven, eight, nine, 10 championships in a row, I want to experience that."

While talk of 10 straight championships may be mere hyperbole, theres no reason the Lakers cant run off a repeat or better with their current lineup. The only significant loss to last years NBA title winning team was Trevor Ariza, but the teams signing of Ron Artest is likely an upgrade. Artest brings not only his infamous swagger and intensity, but an element of toughness and versatility that Ariza lacked. Such was Odoms commitment to the Lakers is that even during his free agency, he helped recruit Artest to sign with the team:

"I spoke to Ron two days before he signed, and I told him how important I think it is for him to come here. Because I know how hard he works, he needs to experience basketball at its best, at the highest level, and he needs to become a Laker. Two days after that, he signed."

Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak was understandably pleased that he could not only bring back the nucleus of last years championship team but very possibly an improved roster:

"Three or four months ago, I didn't think it could be possible that we could basically bring this team back in whole. Lamar had a wonderful season that ended on the best possible note you could have, and Lamar had a lot of options. ... Here it is, July 31, and we have brought back everybody that we wanted to bring back."

Odom noted that his perception of L.A. as his home made a big difference in his decision:

"I didn't want my kids to have to change schools -- just the little things. I'm comfortable here. I've been here since I was' years old. I'm proud to be playing for what I think is the most popular brand in sports.

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Scarf: For Stylish Personality

By Danny Ricks

Scarf is a long or square piece of cloth which is tied on head or neck. Normally people use scarf in cold weather to protect themselves from chilled air. But now they made it a fashion and use it in hot weather also. Scarf come in different style and colors which matches your cloth style.

It was Ancient Rome who invented scarf. But they invented it not to protect themselves from cold but to keep themselves clean. In Latin scarf is named as sudarium but in English its name is scarf only. It was used to clean sweat from face and neck and is largely used in deserted areas. Men used scarf to clean their face and neck and put it on their neck or tie it on their belts but now a days it has become the part of the fashion.

Most famous type of scarf include embroidered scarf, silk scarf, designer scarf, head scarf, neck scarf, animal paint scarf, cotton-linen scarf, kids scarf, velvet neck scarf, winter scarf, fur scarf, knit scarf, etc. These scarves are either knitted, woven, machine made or handmade. Below is the description of some details.

Embroidered scarves have tradition looks and are handmade. It is its beautiful traditional embroidery which makes it different from other scarves. Embroidered scarves were used in Roman times. It is an extraordinary work of art done by experts. Commonly these scarves are used in hot weather but now people are stepping towards the embroidered scarves made of wool which is used in cold weather. It is becoming a favorite piece of knitted cloth to be worn with any dress. It gives comfort and ads style to the clothes. Wool that is used to knit these scarves is made from the fleece of sheep.

Handmade scarves are also a beautiful piece of art from fabric paint experts. It comes mainly in bright colors and everybody's hot favorite. Painting is done on cotton, wool, chiffon, satin or georgette. Hand painted scarves are worn around neck, hips, head, as a beach dress and also matched with any type of cloth.

Silk scarves were originated during 1000 BC and were used by warriors of a renowned Chinese Emperor Cheng. They used it to protect themselves from cold in winters and now silk scarves are used full year. It gives comfort and looks stylish. And also helps in enhancing the personality.

Beaded scarf is made up of beautiful small beads of different color and size. Beads give a special look to the scarf. Different designs of beads are made on a long piece of cloth. Mostly people prefer white and shiny beads. Beads form an exclusive design on scarf.

Finally whatever scarf you like and choose one thing that comes to the point is that it shows personality of a person and ads style. It is a wonderful accessory worn by both males and females.

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Under the Microscope, Independent Reviews on Home Businesses, Citizen Corps - Home Business Review Reveals 5 Star Business

By Marianne Frigula

Whether you are just starting out with a home business and have started searching on the web or whether you have found something and you are just about to sign on the dotted line, it is always helpful to analyse a bit deeper into what home business opportunities are available. A more informed decision is always a wiser decision, so perhaps check out a review or two on your new endeavour.

When I was searching for a home business, I came across the "Citizen Corps -Home Business Review". I found this review to be a very thorough comparison of the major global home businesses currently available. Can I just mention that LifePath Unlimited was the first opportunity to ever receive a 5 star rating from this reviewer. The reason for this is that LifePath's stand alone product in the personal development industry. Stand alone meaning that even without the income opportunity LifePath could sell their personal development product on it's own. A 100% money back guarantee on it's "Discovery Series" product seals it's approval from Citizen Corps.

Then there is a matter of the revolutionary compensation plan that LifePath Unlimited offer. This plan offers the realistic possibility of earning in the six figures or more from your business, then retiring from the business within 2 years and earning passive residual income thereafter.

The review also covers the three-tiered product line that LifePath offers in the personal and prosperity development industry. The "entry level" product which enables the member to sell the product and to immediately earn commissions is the "Discovery Series", valued at $1,695 US, leaving the member a healthy $1,00 US profit per sale. As I mentioned before, LifePath offer a 100% money back guarantee on this product. If you are not happy after your 56 day course, LifePath will give you a full refund. How about that? How many other companies can offer such a guarantee.

Also mentioned are LifePath's other two conference products, "Breakthrough" and "Destiny". These are life changing events that any serious business owner within LifePath would be crazy not to purchase. Purchase of these all inclusive 5 star events will not only change your life with the income opportunity to then receive commissions of $5,000 and $9,000 respectively, but the courses on their own merits are etirely life transforming with the activities that are partaken in.

Comparing LifePath to it's competitors within this review, certainly shows that LifePath really shines and leaves it's competitors truly lacking in it's products and conferences and what they have to offer. Read the reviews and by all means make your own judement, but in my eyes I can't help agree with the 5 star review it has been given. Thumbs up LifePath.

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Gators Tough Out Win Over Bulldogs

By Ross Everett

Despite a subpar game from quarterback Tim Tebow and a determined effort from the host Mississippi State Bulldogs, the Florida Gators remained undefeated by scrapping out a 29-19 victory. Florida led by only 3 points at halftime before pulling away in the fourth quarter. The usually efficient and accurate Tebow had two touchdowns returned for interceptions and passed for only 127 yards with no touchdowns. Florida improved to 7-0 while Mississippi State dropped to 3-5.

College football betting enthusiasts who took the +22' with Mississippi State as a home underdog enjoyed an easy pointspread cover. The Bulldogs improved their ATS record to 4-3 with the cover, while Florida evened their college football pointspread record to 3-3.

Head coach Urban Meyer accepted much of the blame for his team's substandard performance:

"I did not coach well tonight. I put Tim in some tough situations. As an offense, we're not well right now. Tim's not trying to be a hero. But we might be asking him to do too much."

The Gators' are 76th in the nation in red zone efficiency, and Meyer took the blame for that fact as well:

"The problem is they've got a coach that wants to score so damn bad that he's pressing them and some of those guys aren't ready for that."

Defensive end Pernell McPhee gave Tebow fits all night and talked about his team's effort after the game:

"We knew they liked to get the ball to Tebow there. I felt like we frustrated them and made them do some new things they did not usually do tonight. They got in the I formation tonight and that is the first time I have ever seen them do that."

Florida led by only 3 points heading into the final quarter but used a Chris Raney 8 yard rush and a Dustin Doe interception return for a touchdown to open up some breathing room. Jonathan Banks cut into the lead for Mississippi State late in the game with an interception return for touchdown of his own.

The Gators face a tough challenge next weekend as they enter into their matchup against University of Georgia-what used to be known as 'The World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party' until officials of both schools thought that portrayed a negative (though largely accurate) image of the colleges. They'll face Vanderbilt the next week before heading to Columbia, SC for a game against the University of South Carolina and their longtime coach Steve Spurrier. Mississippi State will play at Kentucky next weekend before a bye week. They'll return to action on November--th at home against the University of Alabama.

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MMA Flashback: Sobral Beats Southworth For Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Title

By Ross Everett

Renato Babalu Sobral defeated Bobby Southworth by TKO to become Strikeforce light heavyweight champion at the 'Destruction' card. Despite leaving with the belt around his waist, it wont be the centerpiece of Babalu's highlight reel with the way it transpired.

A -350 wagering favorite despite his challenger status, Sobral was expected to use his world class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu skills and vast experience against superior competition to dominate the tough but limited Southworth. It didnt happen that way, as Southworth easily got the better of things in the first round. Southworth looks to use his strength and conditioning to control his opponent en route to a decision victory. While the result makes him something of a MMA equivalent to boxing's John Ruiz, it does afford him the best chance of victory.

The first round displayed Southworth's style in microcosm, with much of the frame spent pushing Babalu up against the cage or on the ground inside his guard not really doing much. Sobral had one effective strike the entire round"and it would decide the fight. During a clinch against the cage wall the challenger rocked Southworth with a hard elbow strike that not only busted his nose but opened a huge cut over his right eye.

Upon seeing the gusher of blood Referee John McCarthy brought the ringside physician over to take a look. The doctor took some time to examine the cut, but eventually the round resumed following the consultation with only a few seconds remaining. As Southworth's corner futilely worked on the gaping wound during the break the doctor once again took a look and recommended to McCarthy that the fight be stopped. As a result, Sobral was awarded the TKO victory and the championship belt.

The other half of the co-main event was decided in much more decisive fashion as Scott Smith knocked out well traveled veteran Terry Martin in a mere :24 seconds. The rap against Martin has always been that hes a slow starter, but he had the right gameplan in theory as he pushed Smith to the cage wall right after the opening bell. Unfortunately, Martin didn't adequately close the distance against a fighter dubbed 'Hands of Steel' and was caught with a perfectly placed punch that knocked him out cold.

In the semifinal event, Duane 'Bang' Ludwig defeated Yves Edwards by unanimous decision in a very closely contested bout. Edwards was originally slated to face lightweight champion Josh Thomson until a toe injury necessitated his withdrawal. Ludwig took the fight on two weeks notice, and after a takedown clinic by Edwards in the first began to control the fight with his superior standup skills. Edwards' superiority on the ground in the first two frames wasnt enough to sway the judges who obviously favored Ludwig's more effective striking.

Earlier in the evening, Kim Couture made short work of overmatched Lina Kvokov as she TKOd her foe in 1:44 of the first round. Couture, the wife of UFC legend Randy Couture, gained even more notoriety for the courage she displayed in her professional debut last June. She had a much easier time here"despite the fact that both fighters entered with 0-1 records Couture was significantly more polished as she put Kvokov on the defensive from the outset with her sharp punching combinations. She recovered momentarily and survived the initial onslaught. The reprieve was only temporary, however, as Couture launched another barrage of punches prompting the referee to step in and wave off the non-competitive affair.

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Del Mar: Southern California's Horse Racing Capital

By Ross Everett

Southern California's Del Mar Racetrack has been somewhat forgotten by the general public in recent years, overshadowed by East Coast venues like Churchill Downs and Belmont Park. The reality is that the 72 year old track has a history to rival their better known counterparts. Operated by the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club and located 20 miles North of San Diego, its perhaps most famous for its iconic slogan "Where The Surf Meets the Turf" but that only scratches the surface of its star studded history.

The Del Mar Race Track was founded in the late'30's by a group of business and show biz elite, including Bing Crosby, Oliver Hardy and Jimmy Durante. During much of the pre WW II era, horse racing ran a close second to baseball in mainstream popularity, so these racing enthusiasts were clearly at the right place at the right time in terms of market forces.

Additionally, the star power involved with the project also provided a trendy cachet that the tonier race courses back East lacked. Bing Crosby himself greeted patrons at the gate on opening day, and during the late'30s and early'40s it became a place to be seen for Hollywood A-listers and those who aspired for celebrity. In addition to known gambling enthusiasts like W.C. Fields, Edgar Bergen and Red Skelton, the Del Mar patrons during that time also included some of the top female stars of the era including Ava Gardner, Paulette Goddard and Dorothy Lamour.

Del Mar was the site of the'38 match race between Seabiscuit and Ligaroti. Seabiscut won the $25,000 winner take all challenge by a nose, and this race set Del Mar betting and attendance records and remains one of the most famous races in history. The racing at Del Mar continued to flourish until the start of WWII, when the track went 'dark' for racing.

After the war, Del Mar reopened with a bang. The track reopened the day after Japan formally surrendered to Allied forces, and on that day Del Mar attracted over 20,000 fans through its gates who wagered what at the time was a record $958,476. The postwar prosperity was also a boon to Del Mar, which also benefitted from the Santa Fe Railroads daily Racetrack Special that brought bettors down from Los Angeles to enjoy a day at the track. During the latter part of the decade a new crop of Hollywood glitterati would flock to Del Mar, including Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Mickey Rooney John Holmes, Frank Sinatra and Jimmy Durante. Durante would become such a regular that the turf course at Del Mar would later be renamed in his honor.

Even though the popularity of horse racing among the mainstream populace would ebb over the years, Del Mar remains a viable part of the thoroughbred community to this day. Theyve updated their facility, with a state of the art grand stand and most recently a synthetic polytrack surface that was installed in 2007. The racing season at Del Mar begins in mid July, and hosts crowds of 20,000+ on a daily basis throughout.

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