bichon.MOV

Sweet little Bichon Frise at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show

Looking to Adopt a Pet? Why Not a Beagle? Here's the 411

Always gentle and sweet, just about everyone loves beagles. This dog breed is highly social, appears to have a battery-operated wagging tail and are welcome working companions for serious hunters. Beagles have been a popular breed for a long time, but especially since a champion won the Westminster Dog Show in 2008. Ever since, it's been beagle-mania! But before adopting one, here's what you need to know about beagle dogs.

Physical description- The shape of a beagle is described in squares: squarely built with a square muzzle. Their eyes are usually brown or hazel and set well apart. Average heights range from 14 to 16 inches for males with females in the 13-to-15-inch range. Males also weigh more at 22 to 25 pounds, with females around 20 to 23 pounds.

The beagle coat is medium in length, sleek and very easy to care for. Breed experts compare the appearance of a beagle to a miniature foxhound. Their coloring is varied and can show in tricolored shades of black and tan, orange and white, red and white, lemon and white, and blue tick and red tick.

Another important fact that you need to know about beagle dogs is that they have a very distinctive howling voice, especially when they are on the trail of an animal during a hunt. Indoor dogs are not shy about showing off their voices either, and the sound can be described as a short howl rather than a traditional bark.

Temperament In addition to its sweet temperament, the beagle breed is also very intelligent and brave. Generally, they socialize well with children, and most will get along with other dogs. Because they are very intelligent dogs, beagles can be strong-willed and determined when seeking a goal. Because of this tendency, they should be well-trained using patient training methods. New owners must teach their beagle to respect them as "leader of the pack." However, if a beagle is allowed to be the pack leader over its owner, behavior problems may arise including guarding, obsessive barking, biting and snapping, which can lead to destructive behaviors.

Even if bad habits and poor training practices cause early behavior problems, keep in mind that problems can be easily corrected when you understand the beagle's natural instincts and then meet its needs.

Beagles require a lot of exercise. Keeping them on a regular workout schedule will avoid stress and keep them calm. Remember, beagle dogs are instinctive trackers. Try to incorporate tracking games by buying animal scents that you can spray around the yard. Playing these games will keep your dog challenged and interested.

Their natural scenting instincts can also get them into trouble when they are determined to follow their curiosity. While in hot pursuit of an interesting scent, they will most likely ignore your calls to return home. Keep this caution in mind when walking your beagle on a leash. If you decide to unleash your dog, do so only in a safe area and away from busy streets.

Health issues What you need to know about beagle dogs includes these common health issues: epilepsy, heart disease, back and even eye problems. Chondroplasia, also called dwarfism (front legs that appear warped), is not unusual in this breed. When well cared for, beagles can live an average life span of 12 to 15 years.

Beagles really are the best. So if you want to adopt a pet, why not opt for a beagle today?

Robert Clarke

Hershey watching TV

Hershey enjoying the 2011 Westminster Dog Show

opie and anthony Dov Davidoff part 1

What to Do With 48 Hours in London

London is huge with literally thousands of things to see and places to go. If you have only 48 hours you will not see everything, so, the first tip is 'don't even try.' If you try to cram in too many sights you will be disappointed, so be selective. Here is my best suggestion for a two-day London stopover.

Start by heading to Trafalgar square, the official centre of London. You are actually in the 'West End' or to be more correct, "The city of Westminster".  The City of London is about a mile east of you. Don't worry we will be visiting the old City a little later. But, after a stroll round Trafalgar square lets start with a bus tour. The tourist route is an excellent way to see lots of London and 'get your bearings'.  The busses that rin from the north of the square, near the imposing National Gallery go on a circular route and you can jump on and off whenever you like.  I suggest you get off at Westminster Abbey and take a couple of hours to wander round this ancient church. A little later you might want to get a snack, then hop back on board and go all the way through the 'City' to The Tower of London. This world heritage site requires at least 3 hours to explore fully. The day will be pretty much over after that so head back to the west end for dinner in one of many thousands of good hotels. For cheap Chinese food, head to Soho and ask for 'Chinatown', or for something more traditional, we love Bentleys restaurant in Swallow Street close to Picadilly Circus. Bentley's first opened its doors in 1916 so has lots of history, but in recent years owner and Chef Richard Corrigan has built its reputation to that of London's premier seafood restaurant.

In the evening, there are bars, clubs, comedy, music and above all the classic London pubs.

For day two I suggest you start with a walk around Westminster Abbey. Then head down to the Embankment and take a boat trip downstream to Greenwhich. The boats have audio commentary and you get to see a completely different view of the city from the water. It takes about an hour to get to Greenwhich, another world heritage site. Here you will find the royal observatory with the prime meridian, the naval museum, amazing shopping including funky markets and the Curry Sark tea clipper plus a few other famous boats. Cross beneath the river by the victorian pedestrian tunnel and you are now at the O2 arena site, London's top concert venue.

Take in a show and you will find that two wonderful days have just flown by leaving you with heaps of amazing memories of your short stay in this amazing city.

Chris Brown is the Managing Director of http://www.BreaksOnBudgets.com a website dedicated to finding great hotels at great prices. Chris is passionate about holidays and getting the most out of them. Having traveled allover the world he brings together the best hotels for you to enjoy.

Tibetan Terrier Show Puppies (3 Weeks Old)

New show puppies born Feb. 10 2011 - For Sale Sire - Grand Champion - Cedar C. Barnstorm Ltd. Edition (DJ). Most winning Tibetan Terrier 2008, 2009 and 2010. Two time winner Best of Breed at Westminster Dog Show and 12 time winner "Best in Show" 70 group 1 wins Dam - Champion - Barnstorm's Rising Star of the Orient (Karma).

Kina at Novi Dog Show 2010 #1

Kina, Illusion's Whats B'Hind T'Curtain, self stacking at the Oakland County Kennel Club shows in January, 2010. Video taken by John Bauman.

Tibetan Dogs - There Are Basically Two Types of Tibetan Dogs - Companions and Working Dogs

Interesting Information About The Tibetan Dog

As more and more people become interested in some of the rarer dog breeds they are looking to other countries to fulfill this need. Some of the Tibetan dogs are becoming more popular these days and are even found in some of the leading dog shows such as Crufts and the Westminster dog shows. There are basically two types of Tibetan dogs: companion dogs and working dogs. The companion dogs were bred specifically to be the pampered pets for monks and aristocrats. Because of this these breeds have been purposely kept small. The working dogs were used by both aristocrats and nomads as they proved to be excellent guard dogs.

The working dogs were responsible for watching the flocks of sheep and guarding the caravans. Because of this these dogs are often very independent in nature. They primarily slept during the day and kept watch during the night. One of the main ways these dogs kept the wild animals away from the sheep and caravans was through barking. These dogs have a terrifying bark and are actually able to bark, literally, all night long. This is still a characteristic of all of these dogs which can cause some problems in modern society.

All of the Tibetan dogs are known for being very brave, excellent watchdogs, and very loving and gentle with their own families. Even the working dogs are known to be especially gentle with children and are very protective. In the companion dog category there are five primary breeds: Goh-khi, Lhasa Apso, Jemtse Apso, Ursu Apso, and Gyakhi. The Goh-khi is one of the smallest dogs and was bred to be kept inside the long-sleeves popular with aristocrats in previous centuries. "Goh" means eagle, and at one point in history people believed these dogs could actually be found in eagles' nests.

The Lhasa Apso is one of the most well-known of the Tibetan dogs. Their long, heavy coat is very soft and fluffy. These were originally bred specifically to be companions for the monks in remote areas of Tibet. They are amazingly robust and long-lived for such small animals and make excellent watch dogs. The Jemtse Apso is known as the Tibetan spaniel and shares many of the same characteristics of other spaniels, with similar facial features and coats. The Ursu Apso is the wire-haired cousin of the Jemtse Apso and is marked with a rather lengthy beard. The Gyakhi is the Tibetan Pekinese.

The working dogs have two categories which are very similar: Dhokhi and Shakhi (also known as Congkhi). Dhokhi means outdoor dog because these dogs were bred to live their entire lives outdoors in extreme weather. These dogs are characterized by barking for long hours at night to keep other animals at bay, but also for being very loyal and loving with their own families.

In the Dhokhi category there are three basic breeds. The Tibetan mastiff resembles a Newfoundland in size, coat, and temperament. The Dhokhi Apso, which is also known as the Tibetan terrier has very soft, fluffy fur. The Jemtse Apso Dhokhi has a short coat which is similar in texture to the ropelike coat of the Hungarian Puli.

The Shakhi or Congkhi are very similar to the Dhokhi breed of Tibetan dogs in terms of use and temperament. The difference is that the Shakhi has a lighter, longer body with long legs and rather curly tails. The difference between the Shakhi and the Congkhi is in the ears. The Shakhi's ears stand up while the Congkhi's ears are floppy. The nice thing about all of the Tibetan dogs is that they are well-known for being outstanding watchdogs and very loving and caring with their own families. No doubt, any of these breeds would make a wonderful addition to any family.

Patricia McCallum is a certified yoga instructor, former Buddhist nun and creator of the Tibetan Life web site containing information about the fascinating Tibetan people; their customs, habits and traditions in Tibet and in the exile communities around the world.

If you are curious about Tibetan Life, Buddhism, The Dalai Lama, Tibetan Yoga, Tattoos, Tibetan Food, Meditation Beads or Tibetan Translation... visit: http://www.tibetanlife.com

2011 Westminster Kennel Club dog show 135th annual (dog is cool :-)

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Paparazzi Pug

My own little takeoff adaptation inspired by USA's commercial for the Westminster Dog Show. Thanks to Lil, my favorite dog in the world (belonging to my Aunt and Uncle), for being the adorable model/actress! Awwww, isn't she the cutest thing ever (pup-wise)???!! I filmed this while I was staying with them in Rhode Island for the week...

Homeowners Insurance - What Coverage(s) Should I Have and How Much Should I Buy?

Homeowner Insurance

Insurance is kind of a tough thing. Most of us have a love-hate relationship with insurance. Yes we may like our agent but we sure hate paying that premium. We all want our house repaired, or rebuilt, in the case of a fire. We expect somebody, mainly the insurance company, to shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars to rebuild our house, pay for our rent for us to live in another place while our house is being rebuilt, and replace all our personal belongings that were ruined by the fire, smoke, and water. When that annual premium shows up in the mail however, we grumble and complain and our hand becomes very reluctant to write that check.

We are in the last days. During the next 30 plus years we are going to be having increasing pestilence, floods, tornadoes, fires, earthquakes and other natural disasters. We are told that these will be of larger magnitude and more frequent duration than anything we have collectively experienced. You will be increasingly at risk, no matter where you live, that your house could be destroyed along with everything in it in an instant. The prudent thing to do would be to have sufficient insurance to cover this.

When I refer to homeowners insurance I am including renter's insurance, condo, and landlord coverage as well. Whether you rent or own you should have homeowners insurance coverage. Similar to your auto insurance, the liability coverage of your homeowners' policy pays for damages caused by you or your dependents to others that you are legally obligated to pay. The liability coverage should meet or exceed the value of the home.

Yes, the liability portion covers things like people slipping on the ice in your driveway and getting injured or falling down the stairs in your home. It covers you if your dog attacks someone, an injury occurs at your swimming pool, or an accident on your trampoline. It also covers you for things that have nothing to do with your home.

For example, let us suppose your 8 year old son takes a can of spray paint and attempts to help "fix" all your neighbor's cars by painting the scratches. There may be several thousand dollars worth of damage that is caused by someone you are legally responsible for. Your renters' or homeowners' policy would pay for all those cars to be repainted.

Because you can be sued for a great deal of money for accidents that arise you need to have proper coverage. The Seventh Seal will be a time of brother against brother and more lawsuits. Most people do not care about their neighbors. They care about getting justice, getting even, getting revenge, and getting money for perceived wrongs. Having a low liability limit of $100,000 on your homeowners' policy is not sufficient. Just like the auto insurance policy you need to have higher limits that will cover potential liability.

People ask me how much they should be insured for. My answer is, "How much to you think someone with an attorney could sue you for?" This is not a place to be cheap. If you are 25 years old, have no assets, and no children then the $100,000 may be sufficient. If you own a home, have a dog (it can bite someone), have a couple of children, and have a bunch of assets then $500,000 may not be enough.

You could be bankrupt overnight by having your house destroyed in an earthquake and not having earthquake insurance on your home. The same goes with a flood. Floods and earthquakes are not part of a standard homeowners policy. Water is the leading cause of damage to house and property nationwide. The way homeowner's insurance defines a "flood" is any outside water that comes into your home. Floods can happen any time and anywhere from extra rain, to mud slides, to a broken sprinkler pipe. Just because you haven't had a flood in your area over the last hundred years does not mean that one can't or won't happen. Flood insurance is therefore, very important.

Floods are any water that is outside the home which enters your home. "Floods" can be from rain water, a broken sprinkler pipe, a mud slide, or a swollen river. Floods can happen any time and to any house or apartment. Flood insurance also protects the home from natural disasters other than earthquakes.

Earthquakes are more common or expected in certain areas. But in the last days there will be earthquakes in "diverse" areas. This means there will be more earthquakes and in many areas. If you live in the "Ring of Fire" zone where many earthquakes take place, or the potential for a larger earthquake is greater, you would be rather foolish not to have earthquake coverage on your home or condo.

In my opinion everyone should have flood insurance for their house, condo, or rental properties. Most people would be wise to consider earthquake insurance as well. Get with your agent and make sure you are properly covered.

You can buy Brian's new e-book: Built Upon A Rock, Financial Self Reliance in Troubled Times for a 50% discount. Visit his web site for more information at www.brianhornecfp.com/

Brian Horne, CFP
Certified Financial Planner and Consultant
http://www.BrianHorneCFP.com

Brian Horne is a Certified Financial Planner. He has been in the financial planning industry since 1988. His college courses at the University of Utah and Westminster College in Salt Lake City were geared toward Business Communication, Financing and Accounting. Brian attended the College for Financial Planning and completed the two year coursework in the CFP Professional Education Program and then passed the Certified Financial Planner examinations in 1996. At the writing of this book Brian is attending the University of Phoenix in the masters accounting program working toward his CPA certification. As a mortgage loan officer Brian gained a deeper understanding about loans and real estate.

Brian had to study and pass examinations to become licensed in insurance and securities. He passed the Life, the Health, and the Property Casualty Insurance examinations. Brian studied and passed the Series 6 and the Series 63 securities examinations. Later he studied and passed the Series 7 (General Securities), Series 65 (Registered Investment Advisor), Series 4 (Options Principal), Series 53 (Municipal Bond Principal), Series 24 (General Securities Principal) and the Series 27 (Financial Principal). In addition, Brian expanded his financial practice as an accountant helping individuals and businesses with their tax returns.

Brian has worked for CUNA, the Credit Union National Association helping credit union members with financial planning. He was the CFO of a regional broker dealer for a number of years, a compliance officer for several years, owned and managed an insurance agency, and he has worked as an independent Certified Financial Planner since 1996. Brian's goal is to help the reader prepare for the troubled economic times that lie ahead through proper planning. Like the wise man who built his house upon a rock, you can have your financial house built to withstand the economic tempests that are coming.

PETA and the KKK! (featuring Tom Cruise)

SUBSCRIBE! New video every Thursday! References: peta.com www.thenoseonyourface.com

How to Begin a Dog Training Career

Do you love dogs? Do you find yourself automatically trying to train each dog you come across? Would you like a fun, satisfying career that revolves around working with dogs? Then starting a dog training career could be the best career option for you. As a dog trainer you will be able to work one-on-one with loveable dogs and help them to learn the proper behaviors.

Having a successful dog training career is dependent upon the time and effort you place into the venture. The odds of having a productive dog training career are low if you decide to just read a book or two on the subject and set up shop. This type of surface level preparation for your dog training career may leave you ill equipped to deal with the business aspects and typical obstacles.

If you do garner any clients they may not be satisfied with your services and your reputation goes down the tubes. Remember if you embark on a dog training career that you need to establish a good, respectable reputation from the beginning. This is especially true if you wish to expand your dog training career from the average household to dog shows. The competitive dog world can be a small, close knit group that watches the performance of dog trainers closely.

As you can see, starting a dog training career is a serious choice that needs to be investigated thoroughly before you begin. Let's say that you have decided you will put in the time and effort necessary for a successful dog training career because you love dogs, want to work with them everyday, and out committed to being a knowledgeable, skillful dog trainer. The next big question is how to do you start your dog training career?

A dog training career can begin in a number of ways. You can take home correspondence courses that range in complexity and time commitment. You can contact local breeders and dog trainers in your area and become a mentor or take lessons from them directly. You can also begin a dog training career by finding any dog training companies or stores such as PETCO to get you started.

The method you should use to begin your dog training career depends on the type of dog trainer you wish to be and your time commitment level. Can you work only part time and want to lead basic dog training classes at your recreation center? Do you want your dog training career to become a full time job where you train dogs for dog competitions such as Westminster? You need to determine your interest level to begin.

Maybe you are not sure yet how much time you want to spend on your dog training career. If this is the case, hop on over to places such as PETCO and inquire about their programs to become a dog trainer. They can answer your individual questions and help you to decide if a dog training career is right for you. You can also consult many book, e-books, magazines, and websites on the subject. You will often find that others have the very same questions and concerns.

You can also speak with dog trainers and dog groomers in your area that have experience in this field. They can help you determine the level of commitment you want to bring to your dog training career. They can point out the pros and cons of a dog training career that might not be highlighted in dog training career books.

What do you typically learn during your dog training career? There are a whole slew of items you need to understand including: establishing effective communication with your dog and basic to advanced tricks and commands. You will learn the best way to teach your dog these tricks. You also need to understand the mind of your dog and learn about dog temperament and the unique needs of each dog.

As with any career you will need to understand the background and history of not only your dog, but every dog as well. You will definitely come across more than one dog breed to train during your dog training career so it is imperative that you comprehend the intricacies of each breed. For example, you need to be aware of the historical strengths of each breed such as the Bichon Frise breed can jump extremely high and used to be circus dogs.

In addition to dog history and the dynamics of each dog breed, it is vital that you have a good grip on proper dog nutrition. During your dog training career you want to produce dogs that are healthy, happy, and well behaved. Understanding their nutrition and exercise needs will help you to accomplish this. Dog hygiene and grooming are areas of study as well so you can present a pooch that has a shiny coat and sparkling teeth.

While working with dogs comprises the majority of your dog training career, you will also need to focus on the business aspect. Your dog training career will become a business. Therefore, it is a necessity to understand how to operate your business regarding fees, overhead, and other financial and time considerations.

Having a thriving, rewarding dog training career might be just what you need in your life. If you love dogs and want to work with them on a daily basis then consider starting a dog training career.

Visit the dog resource [http://www.dog-breeds-infosite.com] website to research dog breeds & get free tips on dog training, dog books, dog products & how to find dog sitters & dog walkers.

The Fastest Driving Route to Florida

Have you ever wondered what the fastest driving route to Florida is? Well, if you live in the northeastern United States or in the Canadian province of Ontario, read on! After many years of exploring the major north-south routes (and driving my wife crazy with noting travel times between various locations) we have determined that the following route gets you to Florida sunshine the fastest.

1/ If you are crossing the Canada/US border or live in northern Ohio or New York, Interstate #90 provides the best connection to Interstate #79, your first north-south highway on the Fastest Route to Florida. (Remember that I-90 in most of New York State is a toll route)

2/ Take I-90 to Erie Pennsylvania to connect with I-79.

3/ Follow I-79 south through the rolling hills of northern Pennsylvania. One caution, keep watch for deer, I have never seen so many deer (dead or alive) along one stretch of road anywhere else in North America.

4/ There are not many commercial service areas between Erie and Pittsburgh, but there are some clean rest stop areas (about every twenty minutes).

5/ Washington Pennsylvania, just south of Pittsburgh, offers some good accommodation, dining and shopping venues.

6/ I-70 connects with I-79 at Washington, so if you live along the I-70 corridor you can easily connect with the fastest route to Florida.

7/ Continuing southward, it is not long before you enter the State of West Virginia. If you are a college football fan, the University of West Virginia football stadium can be seen in the distance to the east as you pass through Morgantown.

8/ As you approach Charleston, I-79 ends and you connect with I-77. (You could take I-77 all the way from I-90, just outside of Cleveland, Ohio, but we like the scenery of I-79 and it is a faster route.)

9/ Your route takes you right through Charleston, and although we have never spent much time in the area, the mix of southern architecture and modern structures provides for interesting scenery.

10/ Leaving Charleston, the mountains and valleys seem to engulf you as you make your way towards your destination, Englewood Florida.

11/ About an hour after leaving Charleston, you will reach Beckley. This town is known for its coal mining (if time is available check out the coal mining museum.) At each of the exits in the Beckley area you will find accommodations, food and fuel readily available.

12/ If you enjoy mountainous scenery, the next couple of hours will delight you! I-77 twists and turns through the mountains of West Virginia, then as you pass through a tunnel the panorama of the mountains of the State of Virginia literally explodes through your windshield as you exit from the tunnel.

13/ After passing through Wytheville with its numerous venues for food, fuel and accommodation, you will soon be in North Carolina.

14/ The State of North Carolina makes an equally dramatic entrance. As you pass by an exit announcing Fancy Gap, the highway begins a decent down the mountains. The view is spectacular, but the numerous run-away truck ramps serve as an ominous warning that the steepness of the hill can cause trucks to have trouble stopping.

15/ At the bottom of the hill, a beautiful rest area provides a great picnic location, or just a spot to take a leisurely stroll amongst the well-manicured gardens.

16/ I-77 continues on through Charlotte, North Carolina and on to Columbia, South Carolina. One of our favorite moments occurs as we enter the South Carolina Welcome Center. At the entrance we see our first palm tree, evidence that Florida and Englewood are not far away.

17/ A short distance from Columbia we connect with I-95 and continue southward, passing Savannah and then Brunswick until we reach the Florida Welcome Center.

18/ A few minutes south of Jacksonville is one of my favorite stops along the World Golf Village. Besides the great golf atmosphere at the shops and restaurants in the village, there is the World Golf Hall of Fame. Believe me, it is worth the visit!

19/ Continuing down I-95, we arrive at Daytona (try not to travel through this area around the time of any racing event, especially the Daytona 500, the traffic is crazy. But if you are a car racing fan, go for it!), where we connect with I-4.

20/ I-4 goes through Orlando (try to avoid weekday rush hours). You might want to plan a few days at any of the major theme parks in the area.

21/ Just east of Tampa take I-75 southbound.

22/ About an hour later, take the River Road exit and in 10-15 minutes you will be in Englewood Florida.

LET YOUR WINTER VACATION BEGIN! You can now truly forget about the cold weather and snow and just Enjoy Englewood Florida!

I am a freelance writer specializing in travel and sports (golf, football and hockey). The door is always open at my website http://www.enjoy-englewood-florida.com where I share why we love this great vacation and retirement destination. You can also read my blog http://www.enjoygolfmore.blogspot.com

SCOTTISH DEERHOUND IS TOP DOG: "Hickory" wins Best in Show at Westminster

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AKC Dog Breeds - How They Help Establish the Family Line

If you are looking for a new dog, wanting to know more about the one you have, or perhaps decide if you should breed your animal, you can find out if he is recognized as one of many AKC breeds. Since 1884, the American Kennel Club has registered purebred dog pedigrees. They also promote and sanction many events, including the annual Westminster Show. It is probably the purebred kennel club Americans are most familiar with.

Finding out if your pet is one of the recognized AKC breeds can be easy. If your dog's parents are both registered as the same breed, then your pet can be recognized as a purebred. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean the animal may be completely 100% healthy as the Club doesn't have health standards for breeding. Other clubs require medical examinations, while the American Kennel Club simply requires that both parents are registered as purebred. That seems to deter some people from registering their breeds with the popula.

Is it important that your dog be a recognized AKC dog breed? Along with the Westminster Dog Show, there are many benefits one can carry with being an American Kennel Club member. You can follow the dog's genealogy, compete in various sanctioned shows, and register with other breeding clubs to learn more about your pet. Many promotions check to see if your dog is a purebred dog and do check with the AKC. And a lot of the smaller kennel clubs in your area may recognize the American Kennel Club standards as to how they determine breeding and registration.

AKC dog breeds are important, as they also help establish a distinct family line that will determine how pure one's dog is. This can help when you are trying to learn about your dog's history, or when you are looking to breed your dog. Finding the proper mate for your dog when it comes to breeding can be important if you are looking to breed a purebred dog. Checking with the Kennel Club to see if both dogs are purebred dogs can be the difference in the value of the dog's litter and whether they can be recognized with the American Kennel Club, or other AKC sanction kennel clubs, as well.

Sherry Harris is the author of a wide range of dog topics including, but not limited to: puppy training, dog grooming, pet travel, pet insurance, dog training, pet food, house training, dog breeds and dog allergies. For hundreds more free dog articles visit http://www.DogStyleNetwork.com Hope you enjoyed the article topic AKC Dog Breeds. We are online 24/7, so come visit us at your convenience!

12 London Bridges

1.London Bridge: 1176

For centuries the only bridge across the Thames in the city, the first stone bridge was begun in 1176, replacing a wooden one which had been there since Roman times. The driving force behind the building of the bridge was a churchman called Peter of Colechurch but, from the beginning, he had difficulty raising the money to go ahead with his project. Eventually Henry II stepped in, imposing a tax on wool, the proceeds of which went towards the bridge, and it was finally completed in 1209. The old London Bridge is best remembered for two things - it had houses built on it and the heads of traitors were, for many years, impaled on the turrets of the gate at its southern end as a warning to those approaching the city of the fate of those who conspired against the king. The earliest record of houses on the bridge dates from 1201, during the period of its construction. They survived for centuries. According to a writer in Stuart times, the bridge was 'adorned with sumptuous buildings and stately and beautiful houses on either side, inhabited by wealthy citizens, and furnished with all manner of trades, comparable in itself to a little city, whose buildings are so artificially contrived, and so firmly combined as it seemed to be more than an ordinary street, for it is as one continual vault or roof'. The houses were finally removed in the 1750s. Among those whose heads have adorned the bridge have been the Scottish hero William Wallace, the medieval rebel Jack Cade and Henry VIII's minister Thomas Cromwell.

The foundation stone of a new London Bridge was laid in 1825 by the Lord Mayor, who descended 45 feet beneath the Thames in a cofferdam in order to do so. George IV had turned down the opportunity of laying the stone because of 'the injury he might sustain in his health by descending to such a depth surrounded by such an element'. Opened in 1831, this was the bridge sold to an American buyer who, according to legend, was under the impression he was buying the more distinctive Tower Bridge. It now stands in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. It was replaced by the present bridge in the late 1960s.

2.Putney Bridge: 1729

The first bridge to span the Thames between London Bridge and Kingston was built of timber in 1729. Putney Bridge had a toll house at either end with a bell to warn of approaching highwaymen. In 1795, Mary Wollstonecraft, the proto-feminist and mother of Mary Shelley, tried to commit suicide by throwing herself into the Thames close to the bridge after her partner, the American writer Gilbert Imlay, ran off with an actress. In 1870 the wooden bridge was severely damaged when a river barge struck it and the present bridge, designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette, was finally opened in 1886. Since the mid-nineteenth century the bridge has been the starting point for the University Boat Race.

3.Westminster Bridge: 1750

The Swiss engineer Charles Labelye first submitted his designs for a bridge across the Thames at Westminster in 1738 but it was not opened until twelve years later. One of the difficulties lay in the opposition of the Archbishop of Canterbury, who owned the ferry that ran from Lambeth Palace to Horseferry Road and was concerned that the bridge would end his income from it. He was eventually given more than?20,000 to soothe his ruffled feathers. Another problem was shortage of cash, and money raised by state lottery had to be used to build the bridge. By-laws forbade dogs to cross the bridge and imposed the death penalty for anyone who defaced it. (There is no record of any graffiti artist suffering the ultimate penalty.) The bridge was the one on which Wordsworth recalled standing in his poem that declared that, 'Earth has not anything to show more fair' than the view of the city in the early morning. It was also the bridge beneath which Boswell entertained prostitutes. 'At the bottom of Haymarket I picked up a strong jolly young damsel, and taking her under the arm I conducted her to Westminster Bridge... The whim of doing it there with the Thames rolling below us amused me much.' There had been difficulties with the foundations of the bridge's piers from the beginning - one MP, working on the assumption that, when in doubt, it's best to blame a foreigner, accused Labelye of being an 'unsolvent, ignorant, arrogating Swiss' - but it was not until the 1850s that Labelye's bridge was replaced by the present structure.

4.Blackfriars Bridge: 1769

Blackfriars Bridge was ready for pedestrians in 1766, for horses two years later and wheeled traffic finally crossed it in November 1769. When it was opened Boswell, according to his journals, was 'agreeably struck with its grandeur and beauty'. The bridge, designed by Robert Mylne, was intended to be known as Pitt Bridge, after the politician William Pitt the Elder, but the public refused to accept this and referred to it as Blackfriars Bridge from the start. It was originally a toll bridge but the tolls were abolished in 1785, five years after the Gordon Rioters had unilaterally decided that they were an unnecessary imposition and broken down the toll gates. The present bridge dates from 1869. In 1982 the body of the Italian banker Roberto Calvi was found hanging beneath it. Calvi, known as 'God's Banker' because of his close association with Vatican finances, is presumed to have been killed by the Mafia, who had been using his Banco Ambrosiano to launder money, but no one has ever been charged with his murder.

5.Battersea Bridge: 1772

Built of wood and designed by Henry Holland, who was the architect of many of the more elegant houses in the streets around Sloane Square, Battersea Bridge replaced a ferry that ran from Chelsea to Battersea. It was rebuilt as an iron bridge by the great Victorian engineer and architect of the London sewers, Sir Joseph Bazalgette, in the late 1880s. The old bridge survives in many of Whistler's Thames paintings, which depict it looming out of the mists and shadows on the river. The climactic sequence of Guy Ritchie's movie Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels was filmed on Battersea Bridge.

6.Vauxhall Bridge: 1816

Opened by the Prince Regent and originally called Regent's Bridge, this was the first iron bridge over the Thames in London. Like most other Thames bridges in the earlier part of the nineteenth century, it was a toll bridge. Pedestrians paid a penny and anyone wishing to drive a score of cattle across the bridge was obliged to fork out 6d. Tolls were finally removed in 1879. The present bridge dates from the last years of Queen Victoria's reign. In 1966 the opening sequence of Alfie, the movie that did much to consolidate Michael Caine's career as archetypal Londoner, was filmed on Vauxhall Bridge.

7.Waterloo Bridge: 1817

According to the Italian sculptor Antonio Canova, who saw it soon after it opened, Waterloo Bridge was 'the noblest bridge in the world' and 'worth a visit from the remotest corners of the earth'. Designed by the Scottish engineer John Rennie and opened on the second anniversary of Wellington's victory at the Battle of Waterloo, the bridge carried tolls for the first 60 years of it existence. The last day of the tolls, 5 October 1878, was treated as a high holiday with large crowds of pedestrians jostling one another for the honour of being the last to pay the halfpenny toll. Waterloo Bridge is the title of a twice- made film melodrama in which the betrayed heroine ends her life by throwing herself off the bridge. In the 1931 version, the bridge was reconstructed in Hollywood; only in the 1940 remake, starring Vivien Leigh, are some of the shots of the real bridge. It was on Waterloo Bridge that the Bulgarian dissident Georgi Markov was stabbed by a poisoned umbrella in 1978. He died later in hospital.

8.Hammersmith Bridge: 1827

The first suspension bridge in London when it was originally built, the original Hammersmith Bridge was replaced by the present structure, designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette, in the 1880s. An IRA bomb in 1996 resulted in the bridge being closed for four years and it was targeted again in 2000 almost immediately after it had re­opened. These were not the first times that Hammersmith Bridge had been subjected to bomb attack. In 1939, during an earlier campaign of militancy, the IRA left a bomb under the bridge. A pedestrian found it and, acting with admirable speed and courage, threw it into the river where it exploded.

9.Chelsea Bridge: 1858

Excavations undertaken at the time the bridge was first built unearthed human bones and large numbers of discarded weapons which have led archaeologists to believe that a river-crossing here was the site of a battle, probably between ancient Britons and invading Romans. The present bridge was built in the 1930s. In the 1960s the Chelsea Bridge tea stall became a well-known gathering place for Rockers.

10.Albert Bridge: 1873

A still-existing sign on the bridge which states that, 'All troops must break step when marching over this bridge' is an indication that, when it was built, it was close to several barracks and that the authorities were concerned that too many soldiers stamping their way across it in unison would threaten its suspension. It was in danger of being officially rather than accidentally demolished in the 1950s but a campaign was mounted to save it, led by the poet John Betjeman who wrote that, 'Shining with electric lights to show the way to Festival Gardens or grey and airy against the London sky, it is one of the beauties of the London river.'

11.Tower Bridge: 1894

One of the most familiar tourist sights of the city, Tower Bridge took eight years to construct and its co-designer was Sir John Wolfe-Barry, the son of the architect responsible for another very famous symbol of London, the Houses of Parliament. The upper span of the bridge, between the two towers, was originally a walkway, but it was closed in 1910 because it had become a haunt of prostitutes and thieves. It has recently been re-opened as part of the Tower Bridge Experience. When the port of London was at its busiest the bridge was raised several times a day but today, with markedly less traffic along the river, any ship wanting the bridge to lift must give 24 hours' notice. In 1952 a London bus was caught on the bridge when it was opening and the driver was forced to accelerate his vehicle across the widening gap. Just below Tower Bridge, marked by a sign, is 'Dead Man's Hole' where bodies thrown into the river from the Tower and surrounding districts were retrieved and stored in a mortuary before burial.

12. Millennium Bridge: 2000

Designed by Norman Foster, the pedestrian bridge linking Bankside and the City was closed within days of its opening in 2001 because of its inability to carry any more than a handful of pedestrians without wobbling alarmingly. Official statements talked of its 'pedestrian-induced vibration' and, in a flurry of mutual recrimination, architects blamed engineers and engineers blamed architects for the fault. The bridge was closed for more than six months while structural changes were made to stop the wobbling and it re-opened in January 2002.
Need an accommodation London?! Search for short term rental London.

Formerly a practising lawyer, Clara Ros is now a professional travel writer who specializes in cruises, luxury travel and soft adventure trips. Clara Ros has traveled worldwide - five continents, plus. So if you need to rent accommodation London, Clara is the right person for advice.

WESTMINSTER DOG SHOW NYC 2011 #-25

The Westminster annual dog show.

Lucas watches westminster

This is what happened when we let our dog Lucas watch the Westminster Dog Show, Thanksgiving 2009

Maltese Nounous barking at the westminster kennel club dog show

The Newport Jazz Festival: RI's Historical Improvisation for Jazz Appreciation

Jazz has been an integral part of African-American culture for over one hundred years. Its strong rhythmic understructure, bit o' the blues, solos, call-and-response patterns, and melodic improvisation bequeath this musical genre with a built-in sexiness or sax appeal! No surprise, early jazzmen said "to jazz" was to fornicate. Trumpeting a higher note, many literary scholars argue the term originated with Chaucer and Shakespeare. However, musician and songwriter, Clarence Williams, declared he was the first to use the word "jazz" in a song.

Before Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Billie Holiday defined jazz on their own terms, the genre's roots can be traced back to slavery on southern plantations. According to "The History of Jazz": To keep up a productive rhythm in the fields, spiritual work songs were created in the style of "call-and-response" where a song leader would call out a line, and the workers would respond to the call. At the turn of the 20th century, the spiciness of New Orleans homogenized blues, ragtime, and marching band to a style of music formally called "jazz." As African-Americans migrated to northern cities such as Chicago and New York during the Roaring Twenties, jazz took root and sprouted mightily through the 50s until rock n' roll ruled. The Civil Rights movement of the 60s influenced black jazz artists to take greater control over their music, predisposing the genre to reinvent itself which brings us to the origin of jazz appreciation in Rhode Island.

The state of Rhode Island's historical improvisation for jazz appreciation resulted in the establishment of the Newport Jazz Festival, a noteworthy event featuring famous artists from the jazz scene, currently held every August as a three day event at Fort Adams State Park in Newport. The Festival's coming to fruition as a cherished institution on Rhode Island soil is tinged with a bit o' the blues:

History of the Newport Jazz Festival

In 1954, socialite Elaine Lorillard and her husband established the Newport Jazz Festival, billed as the "First Annual American Jazz Festival," held at the Newport Casino of Newport, Rhode Island. The first event featured academic panel discussions and live musical entertainment on the lawns of the Casino, graced with performances by jazz greats. Over the course of two days 11,000 enthusiasts attended the event, whereby major newspapers hailed the festival as a success.

The following year the Casino opted not to host the festival because its lawn and other facilities did not hold up well to the magnitude of such an event. The Lorillards then purchased Belcourt, a large estate built during the Gilded Age, so the show could go on. The neighborhood wasn't too keen on the idea, foreseeing public disturbances. To put it bluntly, Newport's established upper crust opposed the festival for lack of jazz appreciation, whereas younger members of the elite participated in organizing it, attracting hordes of commoners to the city. Traffic congestion became a big concern. Sufficient lodging not forthcoming, many camped outdoors with or without tents. Since many of the musicians and fans were of African-American descent, racism also factored heavily in the denunciation of future jazz events. Nevertheless, with a little improvisation, the 1955 festival was held at Freebody Park, while workshops and receptions were held at Belcourt.

1956: Duke Ellington performed "Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue."

1957: Performances by Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Carmen McCrae were incorporated in an album released in 1958-- "Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday at Newport."

1958: Sets by Dave Brubeck, Ray Charles, and Miles Davis appeared on subsequent albums-- "Newport 1958," "Ray Charles at Newport," and "At Newport 1958."

1960: Performances by Muddy Waters and Nina Simone were released as albums entitled--"At Newport 1960" and "Nina Simone at Newport." That same year the National Guard was called in to quell unruly spectators, so the Newport Jazz Festival was not allowed to happen in 1961. Improvisation procured a replacement billed as "Music at Newport," though it proved unsuccessful.

1962: The festival resumed at Freebody Park. George Wein, an astute businessman hitherto associated with fest ventures, took over the not-for-profit organizational venue, and incorporated the festival as an independent business venture of his own. This festival was documented in a film whose performers include Lambert, Hendricks & Bavan, the Oscar Peterson Trio, Roland Kirk, Duke Ellington, and the Count Basie Orchestra.

1964: Jazz appreciation had outgrown Freebody Park. Wein hosted the 1965 event at Festival Field where Old Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra, played the joint, causing attendance to soar. "Let's fly, let's fly."

1969: A year that will live in infamy, the fest was an experiment in fusing jazz, soul, and rock. Excess crowds with thousands unable to get tickets resulted in major disturbances. In 1971, more of the same ensued as the location could not accommodate all attendees.

1972: Jazz left Rhode Island when Wein decided to move the festival to New York City, renaming it, "Newport Jazz Festival-New York." This gala production consisted of 30 concerts with 62 performers such as Dizzy Gillespie, Duke Ellington, Dave Brubeck, Ray Charles, and Roberta Flack. Though successful, Wein missed the outdoor aspect.

1981: Wein brought the Newport Jazz Festival back to Newport, this time to Fort Adams State Park. Its seaside location afforded a free view of the event to yachtsmen. A daytime-only, alcohol-free format was adopted, and till this day--three stages are used.

Today, Newport trumpets a different tune from its earlier disdain, quite receptive to the continuance of the Newport Jazz Festival in its own backyard as a boost to tourism. In 2007, Wein sold his Festival Productions Company in a merge with producer, Shoreline Media. He took over the reins again in 2009.

"Come fly with me where there's a one man band to toot his flute for you" so to speak, and check the artist lineup of performers scheduled for three days each August at the Newport Jazz Festival website. Meanwhile, residential and out-of-state jazz enthusiasts can enjoy the musical genre of jazz and live performances all year round at the following establishments:

Aspire Restaurant(311 Westminster St., Providence): Considered the capital city's latest hot spot and A-bar, Aspire was the recipient of RI Monthly's 2008 "Best Restaurant and Lounge." Live jazz is featured every Friday night.

Bovi's Tavern (287 Taunton Ave., East Providence): Established in 1947, Bovi's has been the place to come and listen to jazz. Every Monday night, the John Allmark 16 piece jazz band is featured. Live bands perform every Friday and Saturday night.

Chan's Fine Oriental Dining (267 Main St., Woonsocket): "Home of Eggroll, Jazz, and Blues," Chan's has been a RI and national institution since 1905. Its 150 seat Four Seasons Jazz and Blues Club continues to host some of the finest local and international artists, earning a reputation as one of the premier jazz and blues clubs in the country.

Two Jerks Pub and Grill (336 Waterman Ave., East Providence): Every Wednesday night the pub hosts one of the area's best jazz jams.

Jazz continues to evolve and pulsate through its structural elements of rhythm, blues, solos, call-and-response patterns, and above all-melodic improvisation. Rhode Island's Newport Jazz Festival continues to evolve as a cherished institution through improvisational planning to attract great musicians, while accommodating an ever expanding fan base who dig all that jazz. From its inception in 1954 until the present, numerous masterpieces performed live at the Festival have been preserved in documentary films, albums, or CDs. Whether or not you're able to attend the three day event held annually at Fort Adams State Park-you can improvise by listening to Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Count Basie or perchance Ray Charles playing alto sax for "The Spirit-Feel"(1958), preserved as a Festival blues print, for enjoyment within the confines of home sweet home.

Eva Pasco - Author
UNDERLYING NOTES (238 pgs)

A Midlife Journey of Self-Discovery: Winding past Rhode Island's affluent coastal communities, prominent landmarks, cherished institutions, and olive oil spills of the underworld.

FREE EXCERPT (Chapters 1-3)/Convenient Ordering: eBook or Print

http://www.booklocker.com/books/4431.html

West Highland Terriers - Dog Breeds

West Highland Terriers or "Westies" originated in the West Highlands of Scotland. These terriers were originally bred to go after small game. It is said that their breeding came about after another terrier was mistakenly shot Another breeder had a few white pups in the litter and bred those exclusively to become the West Highland White terriers of today. A Westie is very friendly and has a jaunt about his step. This breed is very hardy and needs a walk every day for exercise. Westies have a better temperament than most terriers and will not snap as much. They are recognized by the AKC and other top breeding programs as a legitimate breed.

Westies are fun loving, and fun to be with. They need a small yard to be happy. They are also good companions to be with, and all the love that you could ask for. However, the life can go right out of them if you mistreat these precious dogs. They are good companions for those that have families and well behaved children. They are a bit high strung, but are well worth it to have as friends and companions. The heart of a warrior lies within their chests.

For hunting of small game, these terriers really cannot be beat. These hunters keep at it until they have found their prey. Their determination is one of their inborn traits as a small game hunter. They are fantastic to work with and a joy on the hunting field. These terriers have a natural ability to hunt and also to play. Their good nature is what truly endears them to dog lovers. For Westie owners, they really would not have it any other way. These dogs are also champions on the field of competition and have the AKC stamp of approval. You can see a representative at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. You can also see these at any AKC competition.

These adorable Westies have won Best of Show, Best of Breed, and even won several AKC events. Breeders have entered these dogs into all sorts of shows. They have won major competitions in any show that they have been entered into. They are champions of field, of breed and lovable companions to any and all who take them into their homes. If you want a loyal dog breed this is the only one to have.

For more information on West Highland Terriers or Dog Breeds take a look at this Dog Training website.