1. Statistics – Sports fans love statistics. They are the common thread binding past and present together; the gauge by which we measure modern-day athletes to their forerunners. Computers give us the ability to compile vast databases of statistical information in real time, thus facilitating:
2. Scouting – Today’s managers and scouts have virtually unlimited data at their fingertips with which to assess athletes. Everything from how effective a pitcher is on 3-days’ rest to the average number of fastballs he throws on a 3-2 count, can be summoned at a mouse-click.
3. Equipment Design – CAD, or computer-assisted design, has led to incredible innovations in sports equipment. Helmets have become more effective in providing player protection; padding is more form-fitting and allows for greater range of motion. Club design has enhanced golfers’ performance.
4. Bio-mechanics – By studying the movements of athletes via computerized simulators, manufacturers have been able to develop better training equipment; trainers are able to customize workout regimens for individual athletes, and sports medicine is more capable of assessing, and preventing, sports-related injuries.
5. Performance Analysis – Another benefit of bio-mechanical studies, in that it allows players and coaches to break down the motions of an athlete – scrutinize golf swings or batting stances, for instance, in order to maximize the player’s performance.
6. Simulated Games – Team and individual players stats can be used to determine probabilities in actual game situations by inputting the data into a simulator, which of course leads us to:
7. Video Games – Fans of the game can manage simulated games and make managerial decisions with the same info available to the actual coaching staff. Realistic graphics and body movements are common in modern-day video games, thanks again to bio-mechanical research of the pro athletes themselves.
8. Controlling Scoreboards – The pro sports venues of today are managed by a large array of computers which will update player stats, out-of-town scores, graphic displays, even weather forecasts in real time.
9. Official Websites – All of your favorite teams are just a click away. You can look up stats, schedules, the latest team news, buy tickets and merchandise, all at your fingertips. Historical archives, streaming video, interviews and scheduled events are also online.
10. Fantasy Leagues – Online fantasy leagues are available for fans who want to really take control of a big-league franchise, from the draft to the playoffs. With scouting reports from the pros, you can put together your own squad from the ground up and go head-to-head with fans from all over the world.

It’s hard to believe we ever managed without computers in the sports world, hen you consider that nowadays we scrutinize every nuance of an athlete’s performance, and keep stats on practically everything. For the improvements they’ve made possible in players’ performance, training; equipment, and  sports medicine, computers are indeed invaluable to sports.

1. Expanded Access to Personal Information Held by Others. A significant provision in the USAPA gives authorities the ability to force anyone –doctors, financial institutions, libraries, schools, internet providers, etc ., to reveal personal information that they have gathered about your activities. In doing so, it does not even have to be proven that there is any criminal activity connected to these records, and there is no effective judicial oversight for these actions.
2. Gag Rules Applying to the Above Actions. Having forced an institution or business to give up your personal information, authorities are allowed to forbid said institution or business from telling you of that activity.
3. Secret Searches. Authorities may, under another provision of the USAPA, perform warranted searches of your property without informing you until long after the search.
4. Secret Confiscations. Along with the ability to search your home or other property secretly, authorities also have the ability to confiscate property without notice or receipts left behind to inform you of the confiscations.
5. Church and Political Gatherings Surveillance. Under the USAPA, authorities may now conduct surveillance of churches or other religious activities, or any type of political gathering, without probable cause.
6. Expanded Wiretap Authority. Authorities may also, under another provision of the USAPA, perform secret wiretaps on your phone(s) without the probable cause restrictions laid out in the 4^th Amendment of the US Constitution.
7. Roving Wiretaps. Under the USAPA it is no longer necessary for authorities to specify a telephone number or a particular computer for wiretapping, but allows them to tap and monitor every landline, cellular phone, computer, or any other electronic communications media to which you have access.
8. Untargeted Wiretaps. Under the USAPA, authorities may tap into computers such as university libraries or public libraries, simply by asserting the possibility of a terror suspect using that computer. This authority can then be used to monitor and record computer activities by non-suspects, as well as the suspect used to justify the wiretap.
9. Unknowing Associations Deportations. Non-US citizens who are in the country legally may be arrested and deported for association with those suspected of terror activities, even though they have no knowledge of such activities.
10. Uncharged Detention Authority. Another provision of the USAPA allows authorities, simply by declaring an arrest as “related” to terrorism activities, detain a citizen for an indefinite period of time without charging them with a crime or allowing access to legal counsel.

So, whether you believe that the USAPA is a necessary evil, or a dangerous extension of executive branch power, or even if you support the need for it, wholeheartedly, you can surely see that there is much potential for abuse under its broad authority.

1. Ultima GTR. This is a relatively new introduction to the marketplace by a British company.  Still in a short time it has risen to the top of the list after breaking the Guinness world’s record. It has a Chevrolet V8 engine, and can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 2.6 seconds.
2. Bugatti Veyron 16.4. With the Bugatti Veyron you get a car that not only fast, but very comfortable. Nearly two tons in weight, it gives two passengers a wonderful ride and plenty of speed thanks to its W16 1001 horsepower engine. The maximum speed is 253.4 miles per hour, that you experience in its limousine quality interior.
3. Ariel Atom. This car is produced by a small British company and utilizes a Honda engine. Add the benefit of a supercharger, and it can exceed 300 miles per hour. The Ariel Atom has a streamlined design that reduces its weight, and makes it much less in terms of cost, over some other cars on the list.
4. Ferrari Enzo. The fastest of the cars produced by this famous Italian automobile manufacturer, its speed and acceleration were legendary, until it finally was beaten for the record by the McLaren F1. There have only been 399 Ferrari Enzo manufactured to date.
5. McLaren F1. This car held the speed record for approximately ten years. It was specifically designed for speed. The McLaren uses a BMW gold plated V12 engine with a top speed of 240 miles per hour.
6. Porsche Carrera GT. Styled and manufacturer with Porsche’s masterful production, it is the  most advanced of the Carrera line. Composed exclusively of carbon fibers and composite materials, it is unique in its texture. Recently sales have made it the one of the most successful fast cars in history.
7. Pagani Zonda. An Italian manufactured car with a German engine, the Mercedes AMG V12 motor provides 555 horsepower and 0 to 60 in 3.4 seconds. There is no lack of extravagance to its design.
8. Caterham CSR260. This British produced car has always had a well earned reputation for being one of the world’s fastest cars. With the power and performance of its 2.3 liter engine it has 250 horsepower. When you sit in this car you get the feel of its long history of speed.
9. Porsche 911. Relying upon superior talents in road handling technology, the Porsche has a sophisticated integral drive.  It is able to handle curves incredibly well without any worries over it sliding on the road.
10. Lamborghini Gallardo. The Gallardo is just slightly faster than the other Lamborghini make. You would enjoy owning this famous car, with all its well earned fame for performance and speed.  Its V10 engine yields a 520 horsepower engine.

If you are in the market for one of the world’s fastest road machines, then those above would be on your list. They all have the qualities and performance that create a pride of ownership, beyond the simple joy of speed.

1. Cheetah. Number one is pretty easy to guess. The Cheetah has been clocked at going as much as 75 miles per hour. It makes them the fastest animal on the planet without any debate.
2. Marlin. Some might not have included fish in their list. However, the Marlin can reach speeds of 68 miles per hour in the water. For their huge size, this is an amazing speed.
3. Sailfish. This member of the fish species that can move incredibly fast. Smaller than Marlin, they still can reach speeds of 68 miles per hour in the ocean.  That is something we probably don’t give much thought to, when thinking of fast creatures.
4. Pronghorn Antelope. Ironically, despite their name, they are not actually an antelope.  They are a special mammal known as an antilocapridae and they are found in North America. Their slender bodies can reach speeds of 61 miles per hour.
5. Swordfish. The Swordfish is a cold blooded creature with organs that specifically work to keep its eyes and heart warm. Living in the northwest Pacific they have been able to swim as fast as 60 miles per hour.
6. Wildebeest. Sometimes, called a gnu, they live in Africa. A fully grown adult Wildebeest can weigh in excess of 500 pounds. This doesn’t affect their speed. Some have been clocked running as fast as 50 miles per hour.
7. Lion. They aren’t quite as fast as the Cheetahs, but they do still make the list. We are most familiar with them in zoos or movies. Much larger and heavier than the sleek Cheetah, the Lion can still reach speeds of 50 miles per hour.
8. Thomson’s Gazelle. There are many different species of Gazelles. The Thomson’s Gazelle is considered one of the most popular of them. Its sleek and muscular body has been known to reach speeds of 50 miles per hour.
9. Wahoo. A fish that can be found in the waters of the Caribbean and Central American. It is also known as an Ono and Peto. Very popular with sports fishermen the Wahoo can swim as fast as 47 miles per hour.
10. Yellowfin Tuna. Found in tropical and subtropical seas they can be as big as 440 pounds. Often they swim within 300 feet of the surface. Sometimes called Ahi Tuna they can reach speeds of 46 miles per hour.

Who would have imagined some of the fastest animals on the planet were fish? What a wonderful fact to know and be able to share with others when you are at a party, or in small talk. Won’t they be impressed?

1. Save money – If you have a computer problem, knowing an IT guy can save you money. Even if he doesn’t fix the problem himself he can give you an idea of what the problem is and how to fix it. Then you won’t be at the mercy of the repair guy.
2. Save time – Knowing someone you can call up on evenings and weekends can really save you time if you’re having a technical problem. Sometimes a simple solution can save you hours of aggravation.
3. Learn – When an IT guru starts talking, most people’s eyes start to glaze over. Pay attention and you might learn something. There’s a fount on knowledge you can tap into that could really help you down the road.
4. Maintenance – Many computer problems can be prevented just by doing some routine maintenance. Your IT friend can let you know what you should be doing to prevent problems in the future and get the most out of the equipment you have.
5. Product advice – If you’re in the market for some new computer equipment or want to find out about the latest techno device, an IT friend can give you invaluable advice. He’s constantly researching the latest gizmos and knows what works and what products may have problems.
6. Shortcuts – As your pal, the IT guru, is helping you out with a problem you may find him doing something that catches your attention. These guys know how to navigate through computer menus very quickly and can show you ways to do things with a simple keystroke.
7. Slick tricks – When you’re hanging out with your IT buddy chances are the conversation will turn to your common technical frustrations. This guy can show you how to get the most out of anything from your cell phone to your printer.
8. Latest gadgets – IT guys are always up on the latest technology as its being developed. If you want to stay on the cutting edge and impress your other friends, this is the guy to know.
9. Good deals – Besides knowing all about the latest equipment, your IT friend can also let you know where to get the best deals. Since he’s always upgrading his stuff, maybe you can get his cast-offs really cheap or for nothing.
10. Security – Since this guy knows all about computer hackers and viruses, your new BBF can let you know what measures you should be taking to keep your computer secure. He could even show you how to sabotage someone else if you have a score to settle or just want to play a prank on a friend.

It takes a special mind set to be an IT guru. He may not have much of a personality or care much about his appearance, but don’t write him off. If you’re having a technical problem that you need some help with, maybe you should start including him in your circle of friends.

1. Get backed up – Most file servers have a regular backup system so that files aren’t lost. This is the main reason you want to make sure all your files are saved to the server. If you ever need to retrieve a file it can be found in the backup.
2. No unauthorized access – The main file server should have a good firewall system to prevent any unauthorized access to your files. If you have something you’re working on that is confidential to your business, you want to make sure it’s saved to the server.
3. Sharing – Another good reason is the sharing capabilities when files are saved to the server. If you’re working on a project with coworkers, you can all have access to the same files to prevent redundancy and make sure you’re all on the same page.
4. Your PC goes down – Any files that are only saved to your workstation will be lost if your PC goes down. On the other hand, if you always save your files to the server, you can still access them from another workstation or retrieve them from the backup and keep working without skipping a beat.
5. Deleted by mistake – If you’ve never deleted a file by mistake, then you’ve never touched a computer before. We’ve all done it at one time or another. What a relief to be able to retrieve it from the server or backup instead of having to try to recreate the file.
6. Storage capacity – If you try to save everything to your own workstation, you’re soon going to run short of memory. The main server has a much higher storage capacity than individual PC’s or workstations.
7. Tracking projects – As your files are updated and saved to the server it lets your supervisors know when tasks are completed and by whom. It’s a good way for them to know how diligently you’ve been working on a project. The downside is that they will also know when you haven’t done anything for days.
8. Proof – Since the server keeps track of who saves files and when, this could come in handy if you ever need proof of your work. This could foil an unscrupulous coworker who may be trying to take credit for your accomplishments.
9. History – The main server also keeps an historical record of all the company’s data. This could be very important to your employer’s type of business.
10. Remote locations – Some companies have a main office with employees in various locations. In that instance, it’s more important than ever to make sure your files are saved to the main server. If something should happen to you, your office or your computer, the company’s data will still be saved in their main office.

If your employer has specific protocol regarding saving files to their server, it’s for good reason. Companies need to protect their information and be able to track employee performance. One little mistake or accident can cost them untold amounts of time and money. As an employee your work is the property of your employer so it makes sense that they should have file saving policies to protect their interests.

1. Does any use a sewing machine anymore? The fabric stores are still in business, however there aren’t as many as there once was.  So my summation is that fewer and fewer people are mending and sewing on their own sewing machine.
2. I do wonder about hanging out laundry.  I always loved this chore, however over the years with living in the city with dirty air, I got away from it.  I’m sure there are still some who do and love the smell the fresh air gives to those sheets and towels.
3. I remember when my children become teenagers and active in sports, and youth groups.  It was difficult to get everyone to the table at one time to sit as a family and eat a meal together.
4. Speaking of eating together in a leisurely fashion, are there many if any mothers who make their meals from “scratch”?  Meaning, no canned or frozen biscuits, no boxed cakes, no frozen pie crust and no frozen vegetables, etc.
5. I have a boxed garden this year for the first time in many years; however I’d hate to rely on my garden to feed a family.  I’m so proud of those who still have time and know how to grow a garden and do it in a big way.
6. How about cutting our own wood for the fireplace?
7. Having a piano or other instruments in the home.  Sitting around singing and playing instruments as a family is a pass time long gone for the most part.
8. One of my fondest memories is when the chores were done at the end of a long hot summer day; we sat outside under the stars and sang.  Daddy with his guitar and his children just having a sing-a-long, except for those interested in chasing fire flies or counting the stars.
9. Even visiting with neighbors is a rarity whether we live in the country or city.  People move often, being so transient it is difficult to maintain a neighborly relationship.  I may add as well, that both husband and wife work outside the home as a rule, and coming home to visit over the fence is a passing era.
10. I loved washing the car from our garden hose.  Especially when the children or grandchildren were present to help.  “Accidently” spraying them with the hose was fun and the giggles and get even became a battle to remember.  We were always drenched and today I’m not so sure the car was actually cleaned!!

What about you?  You can easily add to this list.

• Like playing horse shoes in the back yard on Sunday afternoon.
• Having a family picnic while enjoying your own shade trees.
• Making homemade ice cream on the back porch.

I’ll leave the rest to you, my imagination is in overdrive.

1. Remembering The Past. Give your mom the gift of having your family tree carved into a marble tile.  It can be kept in a picture frame, so she can put it on display for everyone to see.  Include a verse about mothers to add the extra touch of thoughtfulness. She will enjoy looking at it every day, and remembering what it means.
2. Something to carry with her. How about getting her a personalized purse or tote bag? Pick whatever might happen to fit her lifestyle and have it monogrammed. It can be an ongoing reminder that says how much you care about her.
3. Give her kitchen new identity. Pick from one of many items, such as coffee mugs, jars, even aprons to add her title “Mom” to them.  When it is something she uses every day at meal time it can really give it a new and touching feel that she is bound to enjoy for many days to come.  It all will say you are thinking of her each time she has her coffee or prepares food.
4. A bouquet that never wilts. Try the gift of a dozen paper roses.  Each can contain the picture of a family member. That is a great means for her to see her kids and grandkids each time she looks at those flowers. These artificial creations are one more idea that could last long after Mother’s day in her heart.
5. The keepsake she will love always. Get a heart shaped glass engraved with her name and the names of her kids.  You can be as creative as you want to make this keepsake unique and appealing. She’s sure to find a spot for it on her nightstand, dresser or the fireplace mantle.
6. Snow Globe treasures. You can get a snow globe custom made to include some jeweled heart inside and a cherished engraving on the silver base. It is a perfect addition for a coffee table or anywhere that visitors will see the globe. The globe is simple, yet elegant; a perfect gift for Mother’s Day.
7. Personalized Flower Vase. There is nothing that could add to a mother’s love of flowers more than a vase with a picture of her kids on the side. One that has their names and a loving phrase which gives it a special meaning, that she will savor each time she adds flowers.
8. Throw Pillows. Add your picture or that of her favorite pet or her grandkids to a throw pillow.  It can truly give her couch or bed that charm a mother will love in her own maternal way.
9. Little Pots Of Thoughts. Does your mom love to grow plants or use them for holding all types of items?  Well then perhaps a pot or group of small pots with nice sayings about mothers would be a terrific choice.  Select ones in her favorite colors, and add designs of images like butterflies and birds.
10. Say It With A Necklace. Have a jewelry store create a necklace with her birthstone in a heart shape. You can also add the stones of her kids and grandkids too. Each time she wears it, those stones will remind her that she is remembered and loved.

There are plenty of helpful places that can help make these ideas a reality for you. But it will be the fact that you put some extra time and thought into her gift, that will mean the most to your mom.

1. Bird watching. This is a hobby that can be as simple as setting up a bird feeder outside of a picture window or, on the other extreme, involve travel to exotic places and the use of high powered binoculars. Learning to recognize birds by both their colors and their sounds, tend to be an important part of the hobby of bird watching.
2. Show dogs. Raising dogs to show, is a hobby that can be very detailed, and often times, expensive. Much time must be put into training and grooming. The training part will be as much for the dog owner, as for the dog itself.
3. Horseback riding. Spending time on the back of a horse and learning how to handle a horse properly, is a great hobby for an animal lover. Horses and their riders often develop deep bonds with each other.
4. Hunting. Perhaps you’re surprised to see this on the list, but it is a hobby that involves animals, in more than one way. In addition to hunting animals, hunting also often involves the accompaniment of hunting dogs. Hunting can be a great hobby to share with your dogs.
5. Aquariums. Fish aquariums are a great hobby for any age. They can be a colorful addition to your home and provide an opportunity for learning about different species of fish.
6. Rabbits. Raising rabbits is a wonderful animal hobby that has been greatly encouraged by 4-H programs. Rabbits can be raised in the confines of a cage, either inside or outside, which makes them a great choice for families without a lot of space.
7. Chickens. Many people raise chicken’s as a hobby. Chicken eggs can be purchased and hatched in the spring. Over the summer, the owner will have the chance to watch the chicks grow into adult hens and roosters. There are many varieties of chickens to choose from, some of which, have very colorful plumage.
8. Goats. Raising goats can be a very interesting animal related hobby. Goats are known for their unusual antics. They love to climb on top of things to get a higher view. Their milk can also be used for making cheese.
9. Calves. This is another animal hobby made popular by the 4-H clubs, raising calves. Of course, you need the proper amount of space for this project, since calves turn into full grown cows.
10. Rodeo. Although we’ve already mentioned horseback riding, rodeo goes beyond that simple definition. Rodeo can involve a number of different animal related activities: calf roping, barrel riding, bronc riding and bull riding. All of these activities require a lot of training and practice.

The top ten hobbies involving animals range from the quiet serenity of bird watching to the raucous energy of a rodeo. Some of the selections are fairly inexpensive, while others will require ongoing investments of time and money,

1. Coonhound. Yes, the coonhound is actually used for hunting ‘coons’ or raccoons, and other small animals. They are believed to be a cross between two other tracking breeds, bloodhounds and foxhounds. They track animals by scent, rather than sight and will usually tree their prey and vigilantly call their master’s to the location.
2. Springer Spaniel. Smaller than many of the other hunting breeds, the Springer is a great bird dog. It is quick at flushing out birds and has a gentle bite when retrieving the animals after the kill.
3. Labrador Retriever. Labs, as they are often referred to, are the most popular dog breed, overall, in the United States. For hunting, they are primarily used for retrieving water fowl. Their coats have a water repellent nature, and their feet are webbed for swimming. They are very easily trained and use the same gentle grip on the birds they retrieve as the Springer does.
4. English Setter. Rather than flushing the birds out, like a Springer, the Setter tracks the birds by their scent and then quietly leads the hunter to the prey.
5. German Shorthaired Pointer This Pointer is one of the most versatile of the hunting breeds. It is an excellent bird dog, both on land and in the water. It doesn’t flush the birds but tracks by scent, like the Setter, and then comes to a standstill and ‘points’ towards the bird for the hunter. This breed is not limited to birding, however, its keen sense of smell makes it a great tracker for small animal prey, as well.
6. Golden Retrievers. Like the Labradors, this breed also has a water resistant coat. Their coat is longer and softer than a Lab’s, and of course has the bright golden color. They are strong hunters and easily trained. They are also very gentle and non-aggressive, which makes them a great choice for a family with children.
7. Airedales. These heavy coated Terriers do well in most any weather and have great stamina and endurance. They do equally well with the retrieval of water fowl as with land birds.
8. Foxhound. As noted by the name, this dog breed is most well-known for tracking and hunting of fox, but it is used for other small game as well. They are very social dogs and do well in packs, as is often portrayed in an English fox hunt. They are also very comfortable around the horses that participate in hunts, as well.
9. English Pointers. They’re great sense of balance and ability to stop and hold a point position, is the source of their name. Pointers are also very energetic dogs that will enjoy a full day’s hunt. They also have a very affectionate nature which makes them an excellent choice as a house dog, as well,
10. Weimaraners. These bird dogs are also excellent house dogs, and prefer to be wherever the people are. Their loyalty to their masters makes them easy to train for both pointing and retrieving. They set themselves apart from most of the other hunting breeds by their soft, shiny coat of bluish grey.

Each hunting breed has its own special strengths. All of them, however, carry the same common characteristic of being easily trained.