Good Stuff in Texas

2007-07-04T17:16:00.000-07:00

All Texas Wines
By Abhijit Dey

Texas is very famous for its wineries and vineyards. The Texas wine industry is booming for last few decades. According to Texas wine directories, there are 250 vineyards and around 70 wineries with same numbers of test rooms in Texas. It is the fifth-ranked wine yielding region of America.

Texas wines have already won numerous national and international awards and applause from several wine lovers’ fraternity. Some popular Texas wines are Sangiovese, Viognier, Tempranillo and Syrah; Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Muscat Canelli, Sauvignon Blanc, Fume Blanc and Ruby Cabernet and lots more. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot-based wines from Texas are the prime competitors of Bordeaux, France.

The winemaking heritage of Texas started around hundreds of years back. The wineries are emerging continuously. In 1990, the amount of production per annum was 700,000 gallons and its around 1,500,000 gallons per annum now.

Almost all of the vineyards are located in West Texas areas, especially in Lubbock, and the wineries are widely located in the Hill Country of North Texas areas.

For the last few years Texas wine industry has grown remarkably, the number of wineries reached 90 in a very short period of time. Almost 100,000 people are involved in the Texas wine industry with a common aim to produce and market great Texas wines.

The main reason behind the popularity of Texas wine is in its making procedures. The Texas wines are aged in 23 litre oak barrels after fermentation.

For the inhabitants of Texas, they don't take it just as a wine. They consider wine and wine production as their daily routine that makes it more familiar and simpler than other wine producing regions like Napa Valley or Sonoma Valley. Texas Hill Country joined hands with other wine yielding regions like Paso Robles and Long Island to deliver delicate wine experiences blended with regional wine making techniques.

The visitors are always welcome in Texas Hill Country either for weekend or long vacations. They can experience amazing fun and zeal here. Tourists can have a never-ending supply of wineries and fine food here with some extraordinary experiences like bike and limo tours. These can reduce the stress and depression of their daily life activities.

Abhijit Dey for http://www.buy-california-wine-online.com/Read more about Wines http://www.buy-california-wine-online.com/by_typeee76.htmlCopyright 2006 http://www.buy-california-wine-online.com/

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2007-07-04T17:14:00.000-07:00

Recreational Vehicle Texas Style
By Lance Winslow

Texas is a huge state there can be no doubt about it and there is much to see in Texas. And since it takes so long to see it all may I recommend that you go by RV. You need to hit all the major cities such as Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and Houston. In San Antonio they have the famous Riverwalk and in Houston and Austin there are many great restaurants and wonderful places to see. Dallas has really grown up and it is now a huge metropolis.

There are also many museums to see in Texas and I recommend the Confederate Air Force Museum and the Permian Basin Oil Museum. The great state of Texas has all kinds of things to see and they are very RV friendly and they are glad you come to spend your money.

The people in South Texas are some of the nicest people in the world and it is kind of scary because you feel like you're talking to your next-door neighbor. In Corpus Christi they have the big aircraft carrier, which you can actually go inside of and Brownsville Texas has the old United States Marines Museum.

And don't forget West Texas there is a lot of open space on the plains in Texas. In El Paso you'll be surprised at all the fun things to do and the museums there as well. That city has certainly changed. Perhaps you will consider all this in 2006.

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2007-07-04T17:10:00.000-07:00

Bingo in Texas
By Randy Ray

Bingo is huge in Texas. (Actually, it's huge throughout the world, but this article is only about bingo in Texas.) 21.5 million people played bingo in Texas in the year 2004, and they won over $443 million in prizes. And best of all, since ALL bingo played in Texas is charitable bingo, over $29.8 million was donated to different charities in 2004.

But before 1980, there wasn't legal bingo in Texas. 1980 was the year that Texas passed the constitutional amendment allowing charitable bingo halls to operate in Texas. The amendment requires that funds earned from bingo operations in the state must be allocated toward charity, so any bingo game you play in the state of Texas is money toward a good cause.

Even though the amendment was passed in 1980, it wasn't until 1982 that bingo halls actually started operating. 1982 was the year that the Comptroller of Public Accounts first began issuing licenses for bingo operators. The Comptroller of Public Accounts continued to administer [http://www.texas-bingo.com/]Texas bingo until 1990.

In 1990, the Texas Alcholic Beverage Commission became responsible for administering Texas charitable bingo, and they played that role until bingo was moved under the supervision of the Texas Lottery Commission, which seemed like a logical choice to oversee what is essentially a lottery type game, even if the profits do go to charity.
The rest, as they say, is history. The Texas Lottery Commission continues to oversee Texas charitable bingo. The bingo division hopes to hit $1 billion in total charitable donations sooner rather than later, and since 1982, they've generated $792 million. So they're pretty close.

Anyone who wants to support charity, have some fun, and maybe win some money should consider supporting Texas charitable bingo.
The author runs a directory of [http://www.texas-bingo.com/]Texas bingo halls, and he and his family try to support Texas bingo by playing regularly.

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2007-04-07T06:34:00.000-07:00

Where To Enjoy Whitetail Deer Hunting in Texas
By Amos Dodson

Whitetail deer hunting is slowly getting to be one of the most favorite pastimes of people who love the outdoors. Whitetail deer are fast and wild animals. Hunting them proves to be a challenge to almost all sports hunting enthusiasts.

Texas is a state that is proud to say that they have several hunting grounds for these whitetail deer. All of the state, which includes, West, Central, and South Texas are ideal places to do the hunting.

And there are different groups, parks, and organizations that you can contact to realize your whitetail deer-hunting escapade. Several of them are:

1. Wildlife Systems, Inc. If you want to be with a company that specializes in the field of hunting for 18 years, they are the one you should contact. They can give you a package or a guided whitetail deer hunt trails of over 100,000 acres distributed in all of Texas. They are proud of their high success rate in delivering the hunt.

2. Texas Outfitters Ltd. This group owns a ranch that boasts of 40 bucks per day count, and that translates to a total of 200 whitetail deer in a day. Those numbers alone would ensure that you have optimum opportunity in getting to your hunt. They also say that they offer 100% opportunity on their deer.

3. All American Outfitter. Deer hunting has been the forte of Texas. The state can allot several thousands of acres exclusively for this deer-hunting activity alone. Most of these lands are even privately owned. If you want to experience hunting in the beautiful deer country, which is very near the Palo Duro Canyon, this is the group of people whom you should contact.

4. Schmidt Double T Ranches. They are located in the center of the Texas, just within the beautiful countries of Menard and Mason. The group maintains a strict quality management and control program in their ranch and hunts. Their ratio is two bucks to one doe and they expect up to a maximum of 50 bucks in a day.

5. San Miguel Ranch and Lodge. Located at Uvalde, Texas, this ranch is endorsed by Gander Mountain. They are believed to have produced more whitetail bucks than any other outfitter situated in Texas. They have a total of 4,500 sq. ft. lodge to match their 30,000 acres of free range.

6. Dos Lagos Ranch. Dos Lagos Ranch has been in the hunting industry for quite sometime but it is only in 2002 that they had started whitetail deer hunting. But since 1998, they had maintained their ranch with high fences and superb deer management facilities. Soon enough, they have replaced their native deer with the whitetail ones. Since then, they had seen waves in the antler hunting industry.

7. Magnum Guide Services, LLC. With 40 years of experience in whitetail deer hunting, you can never go wrong. They have been hunting guides for 28 years part-time and 21 years full-time. They have a success rate of 97% to 100%. If you want to experience professionally managed whitetail ranches, contact this group and let them show you how real hunting is done.

These are the most common organizations that can guide you with your deer-hunting hobby in the State of Texas. So pack your backs and start the hunt. And get your whitetail deer trophy soon enough!

From hunting gear and supplies, to articles on how to make the most of your hunting trips, visit http://www.besthuntingsupplies.info

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2007-04-07T06:33:00.000-07:00

Texas 80th Legislature To Make New Law To Deter Sexual Predators
By Marian Jefferson

The Texas State Legislative body will attempt to address the problem of sexually violent crimes by working to adopt into its penal code new law. “Continuous abuse of a child”, which is abuse of a child in more than one instance over a period of 30 days and Jessica’s Law. The new law will be named for Jessica Lunsford who was abducted from her home in Florida, sexually assaulted and buried alive. It is currently being considered by the Texas State Legislature. If it passes Texas will become one of only a few other states to have adopted similar measures into law.

Jessica’s Law seeks to accomplish the following:

1. Ensure that all child molesters are put into a prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years or 25 years to life and offers the death penalty for

continuous abuse of a child.

2. Eliminate all "good-time" credits for sex offenders ensuring that these sex offenders are required to serve their entire sentence and not be released

early for good behavior.

3. Electronically monitoring of convicted sex offenders for life, if they are ever released from prison, through GPS tracking.

4. Create a 2,000 foot "predator-free" zone around schools and parks to prevent sex offenders from living near where children learn and play.

5. Do away with the statute of limitations for testifying against perpetrators.

Currently, the statute only allows victims 10 years after their 18th birthday to file charges against their molesters and rapists. Because of the elements of fear, guilt and shame associated with their experience, many victims wait until they are in their 40s and 50s to tell and some never tell. According to the Rape And Incest National Network 44% of rape victims are under age 18 and 59% of all rape/sexual assaults go unreported.

Educating the Public

Despite some coverage in the media, there are still a great many people who have never heard of Jessica’s Law or the fact that similar measures are currently being debated in both the House and the Senate. Karen Amacher, Communications Director of the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault stated that the bill initially caused some confusion because legislators did not know how their constituency would want them to vote. This is further borne out in an interview with an area Dallas resident.

“I know about current restrictions on convicted child molesters and rapist where schools and playgrounds are concerned but before today I had never heard of Jessica’s Law”. When asked if she thought the death penalty was too harsh a penalty for violent child sex offenders or if she had any fears of wrongful convictions Ms. Thomas replied, “I am concerned because I think people get caught up sometimes without good representation but I don’t think the death penalty is too harsh", said Frances Thomas of east Dallas. “People don’t care anymore! They think they can get away with anything so they’ll try anything. How else do we keep this from happening?” Ms. Thomas is the mother of an adult survivor of sexual assault and currently assists in advocacy for parolees who have difficulty with re-integration. This writer spoke to many others in the Dallas southwest area with the same or similar response. They had no idea what Jessica’s Law is or Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child. Furthermore, they report the news as valuable and important enough to have more public discussion about the issue.

Uphill Journey

Attorney General Greg Abbott and Senator Robert Duel, appearing before the Senate Criminal Justice Committee, refused to back down from their support of the death penalty for violent child sex offenders despite growing opposition. Also testifying were victim advocacy groups and prosecutors who said that the attachment of the death penalty would make it even harder to get convictions and force child victims (who most often are victimized by family members and acquaintances) to testify against them with the knowledge that they will be sentencing someone to death, said Kelvin Bass (spokesperson for Senator Royce West). Williamson County District Attorney stated he believed the death penalty attachment would even encourage sex offenders to kill their victims (The Statesman).

When asked about the possibility of disportionality with respect to minority sentencing Mr. Bass replied, “Senators Ellis and Hinijosa raised this very question with regard to application”. It is their contention that minorities will be more adversely affected because of ineffective representation and other factors which traditionally plague lower socio-economic status individuals who find themselves in defense of such charges. If the bill passes, it may immediately face a flurry of constitutional challenges. The United States Supreme Court In Coker vs. Georgia (1977), in a vote of 7-2 found the death penalty excessive and unconstitutional, citing racial discrimination and disportionality for the crime of raping a 16 year old. The court ruled that only those convicted of murder can be put to death.

In an interview with Don Forest, Communications Director for Senator Robert Duel and Legislative Aid responsible for Jessica’s Law, he admitted that there were problems with support for the bill as it is reads currently stating, “Senator Duel is working on tweaking the language of the bill to totally eliminate the statute of limitations on reporting and where getting the twenty-five year sentence minimum will not be a problem…deterrent is the most important component of the bill. The Senator wants those who would commit these kinds of crimes to know what the punishment will be…”

In Summary

This bill and its substitute were voted successfully out of the Criminal Justice Committee and the bills are anticipated to go to the floor in a couple of weeks. “We are confident that by the end of the session that we will get something out that everyone can come on board with.” He stated further that Senator Duel was listening closely to opponents such as the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault who say this bill is a bad idea and who are supporting Senate bill 97 and House bill 204 as substitutes for the current bill according to Karen Amacher, Communications Director for TAASA. Senator Robert Deull, a medical doctor, was tapped by Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst to lead the charge for sponsorship of this bill. It will be offered as a part of Dewhurst’s “Texas Children’s First” program.

In Texas, 1.9 million adult Texans (1,479,912 female and 372,394 male) or 13% of adult Texans have been sexually assaulted at some point in their lifetime (Institute on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault at The University of Texas at Austin, 2003). This translates to roughly one rape every 1 hour and 1 minute (Texas Crime Clock; Crime in Texas 2005).

Marian Hubbard Jefferson is the Chair of Lift Every Voice Family and Community Development Project, a nonprofit charity formed to empower, equip and encourage adult survivors of child sexual assault. Marian holds a Masters Degree in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University in Texas. To learn more about Lift, its passion, mission and purpose; please log onto http://www.marianjefferson.org

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2007-04-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

A "New State Of the Art Texas Stadium" For The Cowboys In 2009
By Rick Bedard

The Dallas Cowboys are “America’s Team”. They are known the world over as a great National Football League franchise and as the team that is cheered on by “America’s Sweethearts”, the world famous Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. For over 30 years, Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas, has been home to both the football team and the cheerleaders. All that will change at the start of the 2009 season when the team takes to the field at Dallas Cowboys New Stadium.

In their 40 plus years since joining the NFL as an expansion team, the Dallas Cowboys have had two homes: the Cotton Bowl and Texas Stadium. The Cowboys got their start at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas. After a number of years of playing at the Cotton Bowl the team longed for a state of the art stadium they could call their own. Their wish came true as construction on Texas Stadium (simply named for the state of Texas) began in the late 1960s. The stadium was unique for its time and remains so to this day. It is partially domed, allowing fans to be covered while at the same time exposing the football field to nature’s elements. Two tiers, of over 65,000 blue seats, extend around the field. Initially it was planned that the stadium would be fully domed. It was, however, discovered that the stadium could not support the weight of the entire roof and before the roof structure could be modified public funding ran out. Leaving well enough alone, in 1971 the Dallas Cowboys became the proud owners of a partially domed stadium. Texas Stadium has been the sight of some great Cowboys football and has served the team well for the past thirty-six years. There will no doubt be some regret when the team moves to its new home.

New Stadium is the working name for the Dallas Cowboys stadium that is under construction in Arlington, Texas, and due to open prior to the 2009 NFL season. Designed by Dallas-based architectural firm HKS, the new stadium will have a capacity of 80,000 with the future possibility of expansion for 100,000.

The road to the new stadium has been long and winding and with it’s fair share of roadblocks. In 1994 Jones made it known that he wanted to expand Texas Stadium by 40,000 seats, add a retractable roof panel, and climate control to make the stadium a year round venue for sporting events, concerts, conventions and hopefully some day the Super Bowl. By the end of the nineties the Cowboys had discussed a $260 million upgrade to Texas Stadium as well as holding talks with the City of Arlington about building a new stadium. In 2000, the team compiled a list of possible sights for a new stadium while negotiations continued with Irving to renovate Texas Stadium.

Over the next few years’ talks continued with various cities in the Dallas area and with the city of Dallas itself. The Cowboys asked the City of Irving to extend their lease at Texas Stadium on a year-to-year basis (the Cowboys lease expires at the end of the 2008 season). In April 2004 the team announced plans to build a $650 million stadium at Fair Park in Dallas ($425 million of which would come from public funding). The deal fell apart two months later when it was determined by Dallas County commissioners that they could not justify asking voters to approve the $425 million in public funding. One month later the Cowboys announced that they were in negotiations with the City of Arlington. By August of 2004 Arlington City Council agreed to put a vote before taxpayers for a tax increase to fund the $325 million public funding portion of the project. On November 2 taxpayers approved the tax increase and the future home of the Cowboys was settled.

In 2005, the final site for the stadium in Arlington was chosen and in 2006 the Cowboys hired their general contractor. Excavation at the site began and in December 2006 the in depth plans and the Dallas Cowboys and Jerry Jones revealed designs of the stadium to the public.
The original cost of the stadium was estimated at $650 million. Today the estimated cost is in excess of $1 billion potentially making it one of the most expensive sports venues ever to be built.

New Stadium will feature an arch (almost 300 feet in height), anchored at each end, which will span the length of the stadium dome. In a fitting tribute to their old home, New Stadium will have an identical hole in the roof. The hole will have the option of being covered with a retractable roof should there be rain or unbearable heat conditions. There will also be doors at each end of the structure allowing the end zones to be opened. The final name of New Stadium is unknown. It’s possible that the stadium will follow the trend of other sports venues by sell the naming rights to a large corporation. In all likelihood, New Stadium will be used by other organizations for sporting and non-sporting events, including college football. It has already been determined that the AT&T Cotton Bowl will move to the new stadium for 2010.

The Cotton Bowl and more significantly Texas Stadium have played an integral part in Dallas Cowboys history. As the excitement mounts for the opening of New Stadium there will be some sadness, too, as the Cowboys leave Texas Stadium, the structure they have called home for the past thirty-six years. New Stadium will no doubt be the sight of more incredible Cowboys football and take its rightful place in Dallas Cowboys history.

Rick Bedard loves the Dallas Cowboys and he welcome's all of you to his new store devoted to
America's Team

Whether you're looking for a Dallas Cowboys Watch, Dallas Cowboys Apparel, Cowboys Merchandise or even if you're just looking to buy a
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2007-04-07T06:30:00.000-07:00

How to Get Very Cheap Car Insurance In Dallas Texas
By Elizabeth Newberry

Cheap Dallas car insurance can be obtained through the same basic ways you can find any affordable Texas insurance policy: shop around, ask about all discounts, and choose the policy that best meets your coverage and financial needs. However, this search method isn’t so easy for Dallas drivers who have had a few tickets, don’t have a great credit history, or have gone with out Texas car insurance for a long period of time. Each of these factors can make it difficult to not only find cheap Dallas car insurance, but they can also make it difficult to find Texas car insurance – period.

If you’re a Texas driver having trouble finding cheap Dallas car insurance, there are a couple of suggestions that may work for you. First, take a year to gather yourself. You can repair your credit history – at least to the satisfaction of an auto insurance company – by paying off outstanding debts, always making current bill payments on time, and making sure your credit report is accurate. Any inaccuracies can affect your credit rating negatively; if you find incorrect credit information, move to have it corrected or at least the chance to explain the situation.

As you’re working on your credit report, work on your driving record. Find out how you can remove points on your record. Sometimes the court will allow you to attend a special class to have points removed. Other times you may simply need to pay a fine, or wait a certain time period.

In the meantime, you’re going to need Dallas car insurance – it’s a requirement in Texas. If you own your car outright, you may want to purchase the minimum liability car insurance required; minimum liability car insurance policies are generally cheaper than full-coverage auto insurance. In Texas, the minimum requirements are $15,000 to cover damages an accident causes other property; $20,000 to cover any bodily injury or death of one person per accident; and $40,000 to cover any bodily injury or death of two or more persons per accident.

For free quotes and a lot of information about insurance please visit the following
recommended sites.

How to Get Very Cheap Car Insurance In Dallas Texas

Get Combined Home and Auto Insurance for Low Budget Costs

Save Money on Your Teen Car Insurance

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2007-01-27T05:19:00.000-08:00

Houston Real Estate Market
By Ken Marlborough

In order to analyze the larger picture, it is important to understand that real estate refers to residential as well as commercial property. Along with the land in question, it also includes fixtures, fences, and buildings that are lawfully built up on it. Apart from this, in case a piece of a land has natural resources within it, they are a part of the real estate. Located in Texas, the city of Houston boasts of a flourishing real estate market. The Houston real estate market thrives upon trade of real estate. This refers to the purchase, sale, lease, and rentals of commercial and residential real estate.

The Houston real estate market, similar to other cities, is a volatile and unpredictable business venture. An interesting factor that sets the real estate market noticeable from other trades is its fluctuating nature. Rather than being solely influenced by global recession and inflation, real estate price points are largely dependent upon local factors. Prices of immediate neighborhood properties and local events proportionately affect real estate prices instead of variations at the stock exchange. Improvements in the economy have increased purchase power, prompting a large number of people to buy real estate. Such deals could revolve around residential, commercial or investment property. Since real estate deals can revolve around financial commitments that cannot be borne all at once by clients, the lending attitude of various financial institutions affects the Houston real estate market.

In order to be at par with real estate dealings in other places, the Houston real estate market is also dependent upon appraisal services. This helps attain precise and up to date estimates of a certain piece of property and helps facilitate quick dealings. For those who wish to make a career in the Houston real estate market, can choose to enroll at real estate schools or work under the guidance of reputed firms and brokers.

Houston Real Estate provides detailed information on Houston Real Estate, Houston Real Estate Agents, Houston Real Estate Schools, Houston Real Estate Listings and more. Houston Real Estate is affiliated with Austin.

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2007-01-27T05:16:00.000-08:00

Cheap Texas Car Insurance
By Elizabeth Newberry

In today’s advanced world of technology, the Internet has made it possible for us to shop for almost everything online. Car insurance is no exception, and drivers in California are able to purchase car insurance from the same auto insurance company used by drivers in West Virginia thanks to the Internet and the broad scope of advertising it provides.

However, when you are looking for cheap Texas car insurance, you should not overlook the option of purchasing the insurance from a Texas car insurance company. Purchasing cheap Texas car insurance from a Texas car insurance company does not mean purchasing the insurance from a company that is merely licensed to do insurance business in Texas. A Texas car insurance company is one that specializes in selling car insurance to Texas drivers and car owners.

Texas-based car insurance companies are able to sell cheap Texas car insurance because they are aware of any special factors that should go into car insurance in Texas. Rather than simply having policyholders in Texas, they have owners and agents in the area.

A Texas car insurance company will ask Texas drivers and car owners the same kinds of questions asked by any other car insurance company. The insurance company will want to know contact information about you, such as your name, your address, your telephone number, and your email address, as well as more personal information such as your marital status, gender, age, employment, and credit rating. The insurance company will also want to know information about your current Texas car insurance, information about your vehicle such as make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN), and information about the people who also drive your car.

To begin your search for cheap Texas car insurance, start at home. Look at your newspapers, local television commercials, and telephone listings, and talk with your family members, friends, and co-workers about the Texas car insurance companies they use.

To get free quotes and learn more about insurance please visit the following
recommended sites.

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Shotguns for Hunters by Steve Graham

2006-10-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

Shotguns come in many shapes and varieties. Some shotguns are made for hunting purposes and some are made for tactical uses. This article is only concerned with shotguns intended for the purpose of hunting. Shotguns come in many different actions and gauges.

The 12 gauge is king of the hunting world. It can do most anything that a hunter calls on it to do. The 12's big brother is the 10 gauge. This gauge is used mainly for high flying geese and ducks. Turkey hunters also use this gauge because of it's superior knockdown power.

You still can find 16 gauges on the used gun market. The 20 and 28 gauge shotguns have their uses mainly for bird hunters. The 410 gauge is a minuscule number that should only be used by experienced hunters if lethal hits are to be considered.

Shotguns come in many fascinating actions. The pump and semi automatic shotguns probably rule the roost here in the United States. The semi's come in several configurations

One version uses a piston in the forearm that bleeds off gas from a fired shell that is used to cycle the action. This permits a fired shell to be expelled and a new shell to be made ready for firing. Inertia driven shotguns are operated by the rearward force of the recoil which activates a mechanism that does the same thing as the semi's. It expels a fired shell and inserts a new shell into the chamber. Bolt action shotguns have been made to suit the gun lovers fancy. Prices vary in shotguns with this action. Double barreled shotguns are made for general use along with cowboy action shooting and bird hunting. Over and under shotguns have two barrels. One barrel is positioned above the other with each barrel usually having its own defined choked barrel. Single shot shotguns are also offered to the public in prices ranging from the economical to the very pricey.

Shotgun barrels come in many different lengths and sizes. The shorter barrels are usually used for close cover bird hunting. The longer barrels are used for longer range situations like high flying geese and ducks. Studies have been made that suggest a 24 inch barrel is all that you need to achieve maximum speed from a fired shell. I still like longer barrels for distance shooting because the longer barrels enable you to establish a better sight picture on your target. Some of these barrels are ported to reduce felt recoil. Barrels are offered in many configurations for their intended uses. There are rifled barrels for deer hunters. Slug barrels also fit into this category. Stainless steel barrels and coatings from camouflage and blue to green are also offered.

Chokes are used on guns to give the gun a desired patterning effect. Full and turkey chokes offer constricted surfaces that offer longer ranges and tighter groups. Modified chokes are for general purpose use. Improved and improved cylinder offer wide patterns at close ranges.

Some chokes are fixed on the barrel and others offer an interchangeable system that can be removed and replaced with considerable ease.

There are shotguns offered for standard 2 3/4 inch shells. There are guns offered for 3 inch variations. There are guns that can fire 2 3/4 , 3 inch and 3 1/2 inch shells interchangeably out of the same mechanism. There are also guns offered that fire only 3 and 3 1/2 inch shells. There is something out there for everyone and every hunting situation. Take advantage of and enjoy this incredible opportunity if you are a serious gunner.

Stephen Graham is an avid hunter and fisherman and share his knowledge and experiences in his writings.

http://buckskinnews.blogspot.com/

http://goodstuffintexas.blogspot.com/

http://huntn-n-fishn.blogspot.com/

2006-08-15T05:43:00.000-07:00

Buck Fever
By Stephen Graham

Why do we hunt? It is not because hunting is boring and does not make our heart
race. Most of us spend weeks and months doing things that usually do not interest us. We
punch in on a time clock and have to listen to the rants and ravings of the bosses. We drive
to work usually accompanied by bad actors in traffic. Our lives are harried and we operate
that way by means of a schedule which usually adds insult to injury. We have
responsibilities to our wives, children and mortgages. We tolerate unhappiness most of the
year. How many times during a brutal work day have you dreamed of the solitude and
the freedom of an outdoor experience far from the maddening crowds? Some of us tolerate
bad behavior by bosses, wives, children and acquaintances most of the year in order to pay
for a week or so of peace in the deer woods. We work our tail off to make everyone happy all
year long in order to finance a few days of peace and happiness for ourselves.

Some of us are not hunters. The outdoor experience is available to everyone who has a
hobby or past time relating to the outdoors. Bird watching is nice. Camping is better. The
water sports offer real excitement. Fishing is fun. Hunting can involve all of the above. Many
hunters bring fishing gear along with them to use on that special area of water near their
camping space. Many hunters make use of boats and water craft to get them to their
special place.

Much preparation and expense are required to put the hunter in just the right spot for the shot
of a life time. Hunting leases are expensive. Guns, scopes, camping gear and travel
expenses make deer hunting even more dollar intensive. We practice and fire many rounds
of ammunition to prepare ourselves for just that moment. For some of us that moment
arrives and everything that we have worked for has fallen completely apart. We see the
biggest buck of our lives and our nervous system goes into overdrive. We get the shakes
and sweats. We cannot accomplish anything which we have spent months preparing
ourselves for. The blood pressure goes up and our chances of hitting the buck with a good
shot goes down. The barrels of our guns shake so badly that we could not hit a barn at fifty
yards.

In situations like these practice controlled breathing and good trigger squeezes. Get your
breathing under control along with your nervous system. Do not look at the animal's horns
Concentrate on shot placement. Your mind does not need any extra distractions. Keep it
simple. Most people who have conquered buck fever wait until the animal is down before the
shakes arrive. One reason for hunting is that most people can get in touch with feelings
that have lain dormant since the last hunting season. Boring jobs with boring people do not
usually elicit huge happy variations in our emotions. Hunting can bring emotions to the
surface that we have not experienced in months. That is part of the reason to go deer
hunting. We need to feel those emotions. The trick is to keep those emotions in check until
after you know that the animal is down. One problem solving tactic is to practice firing at life
size targets of your quarry. Visualize in your mind actual hunting situations. Prepare in
advance for that buck of a life time.

Stephen Graham: Avid hunter and fisherman, writes from life experiences and his own opinions.

http://goodstuffintexas.blogspot.com

http://huntn-n-fishn.blogspot.com

http://buckskinnews.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Graham

2006-07-31T19:53:00.000-07:00

Sasquatch
By Stephen Graham

Is there a missing link between the lower primates and man? Reports of sightings of this creature have come from all over the world. Reports of sightings of yeti or the abominable snowman have taken place for years in the Tibetan-Himalayan area. Sightings of the skunk ape that inhabits the everglades of Florida have also been reported for many years. In North America sightings have been reported in almost all areas where there exists the habitat required for bigfoot to make a living. Heavily forested areas of the country are the best bet to find this creature. The northwest portion of the United States contains vast acreage largely untouched by man. Bigfoot prefers areas that are free from the encroachment and activity of man. Sightings mainly occur through accidental encounters between man and bigfoot. Bigfoot is largely nocturnal and it's habits usually consist of the avoidance of man at all costs.

From the Big Thicket in East Texas all the way North encompassing the terrain of the tristate areas of Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas sightings of the animal have continued to be reported. Witnesses have encountered the animal while on outdoor excursions. Some accounts involve clashes between bigfoot and vehicles. Varying reports indicate injuries suffered in these collisions between the animal and man. Reliable sources have indicated that on occasions the animal has reached high speeds while making an attempt to follow moving vehicles. As man continues his encroachment into bigfoots' domain the animal is being forced further back into inaccessible pockets of seclusion.

Do we question the reports and sightings concerning bigfoot? Reliable people have filed reports about sightings of the animal. Police officers and professionals have made claims to have seen the animal. The abundance of claims that are reported lend some type of authenticity to the reports. Individual sightings have been reported by the claims of multiple persons. An incident of two police officers making the same claim while on a camping trip occurred recently. Reports of Bigfoot sightings near human habitations have occurred. Bigfoot supposedly has a fondness for chickens and vegetables left within reach of the animal around human compounds. Reports have surfaced of the animals' attempts to enter structures built by man.

Incidents have occurred that reference the fact that the animals have been observed looking into windows of homes late at night. The animal seems to prefer a safe distance between himself and man. Bad behavior preformed by the animal towards man is considered extremely rare. Hunters and those individuals who invade the living areas of Bigfoot report the most sightings. There are those who have come to recognize the animals' eerie cry. Samples of blood and hair from the animal have been taken to the scientific community to be analyzed and results have confirmed that those same samples are not human or are they from any known animal source. The only conclusion that scientists can arrive at is that the samples given to them for comparison could have only originated from a higher primate source.

Native Americans believe that Bigfoot originates from the spiritual realm and some of them live underground. They are said to possess powers far removed from their human counterparts. Although footprints, impressions, hair and blood have been collected no complete animal has been brought in for scientific scrutiny. There have been still pictures and video of the animal brought to the publics attention. A scientific investigation of the Patterson film concluded that the film was authentic. Video of the creatures' musculature could not have been reproduced artificially by any means known during the time frame that the video was made.

Who is this animal? Is he a figment of an overactive imagination or is he authentic? Research into the worlds' past should be recognized. Have there been animals in the earths' past that have lived and died and in the process become extinct? Anthropologists have uncovered the skeletal remains of ancient creatures that do not exist today. Could Gigantopithecus have escaped extermination and still be living in seclusion with us in the world today? On your next foray into locations that are largely uninhabited by man you can contemplate the possibilities. You might even be the fortunate person to experience an encounter with the elusive hairy man of the wilds.

Stephen Graham: Writes articles regarding his own interests and studies.

http://huntn-n-fishn.blogspot.com

http://buckskinnews.blogspot.com

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2006-07-31T19:51:00.000-07:00

How to Find Great Cowboy Boots That Feel As Good As They Look
By Gregg Hall

It is amazing how popular cowboy boots are all over the planet, not just in the United States. While cowboy boots were originally created and designed to be worn by cowboys as a work boot more or less, they have achieved much more widespread popularity as a fashion item.

These boots were originally introduced to the public market during the Civil War and were copied after cavalry boots worn by soldiers. Soon afterwards cattlemen that worked the ranches of Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas petitioned the boot manufacturers to alter the boots in order to be better suited the specific work they did. Two of the most popular of these boot makers were Hyer Brothers out of Kansas and Justin Boots of Spanish Fort, Texas, a brand still popular today.

I think mush of the appeal of cowboy boots lies in their unique styling, having a high main shaft, with a high heel and pointed or rounded toe together with no lacing. In the beginning the boots were made from regular cowhide leather but later on the cowboys began desiring boots that were more decorative and elaborate and the evolution began into the fancier boots with a multitude of different materials and designs such as the Texas Stars that were popular then.

This led to the cowboy boot industry we have today where it seems nearly everyone owns a pair! The boots of today are made in nearly any imaginable color and are constructed of not only plain leather but of elk, ostrich, elephant, snake, alligator, shark, and even stingray. The sharkskin and stingray are particularly tough and durable.

If you are interested in buying cowboy boots, just bear in mind that they don't fit like any other shoe. You should have your foot measured and do so in the afternoon or evening when your feet have expanded. Buying any shoe or boot in the morning will result in them being too tight. You also need to be concerned with the depth and width of your foot. If you have a wide foot, you should consider a wide width. Most cowboy boots are made in B width for women and in D width for men.

Next you want to think about heel heights. The heels of cowboy boots come on a wide assortment of thicknesses from very short to extremely tall, just go with what you like best. For general all purpose wear it is best to stay under two inches. Get your own pair of boots and see what all the fuss is about.

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Find more about western boots, work boots and cowboy boots cowboy boots at http://www.westernandworkboots.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregg_Hall

2006-07-26T03:34:00.000-07:00

Camping in the Great Outdoors
By Stephen Graham

You probably experienced camping in your youth while visiting friends or on trips with
organized groups. The Boy Scouts and other groups are dedicated to this pursuit. They
offer rudimentary training in organized groups which are usually chaperoned by
knowledgeable adults. Camping can be fun for the young as well as the adult camper. It is
best to start out camping in less extreme conditions and environments. Do not plan your
first camping trip in a snow storm or 110 degree temperatures. Use terrain that is not
threatening or dangerous to the camper on his first excursion. Gain experience and
knowledge. This knowledge along with proper camping equipment can lead to more extreme
camping. Stay away from areas with dangerous game populations.

Weather and terrain usually are good indicators on what camping equipment to take with you
on your excursions. Cold weather calls for proper cold and wet weather clothing. Heavier
duty equipment is usually called for in these situations. Better insulated bed rolls and
clothing that can insure a worry free trip are better ideas. Stronger tents and equipment
that are better suited to cold weather environs and offer better protection from the elements
are correct choices. Some type of heating device or alternative plans for heating that could
make your stay more comfortable in cold weather should be initiated. Foods that are high in
caloric content make better choices in cold weather camping.

Warm weather camping calls for equipment that meets the criteria for hot conditions. Light
clothing and bed rolls meet these conditions. Extra water or water filtration devices should
be carried on these trips. Hats and clothing that offer protection from the sun are good
choices. Bug spray and a snake bite kit might come in handy under these conditions.

Under all camping conditions proper lighting and first aid equipment should be carried at all
times. Food and provisions for cooking that food should be taken along on the trip. Bed rolls
or sleeping bags should be accompanied by an air mattress and mattress pad. Maps and
compasses should be taken and put to good use. You should leave information about your
location and probable return date with a person who can use this information to inform the
authorities and thus speed up recovery operations if the need arises. Cutting devices such
as knives and axes should accompany you on your journey. To modern day campers a cell
phone can be put to good use in emergency situations.

Take packs and enough equipment that will insure your comfort and survival for the proposed
time and extra equipment and food for extra days if the need arises. If you are camping in
areas where the weather can change abruptly make allowances for that problem. Make sure
that the vehicles that transport you to the camping area are in good repair and that vehicle
emergency equipment is on board. This could include shovels and flares. A cb radio
installed on the vehicle could make a critical situation into a pleasant experience.

Have fun and be prepared for all of the situations and problems that could face you and your friends in
the great outdoors.

Stephen Graham: Stephen has a degree in Psychology and writes articles from research and his own life experiences.

http://buckskinnews.blogspot.com

http://goodstuffintexas.blogspot.com

http://huntn-n-fishn.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Graham

2006-07-15T05:05:00.000-07:00

Texas Allocates $255 Million to Homeownership
By Martin Lukac

Texas is making $255 million in homebuyer funds available to Texans for the purchase of a home.

"Owning a home has always been an essential part of the American Dream. For families, homeownership is not merely a source of pride, it is often the first step on the path to prosperity. And for our communities, homeownership provides an important source of stability," Governor Rick Perry said.

"Research studies show that when a majority of families own the home in which they live, you end up with safer neighborhoods, greater economic opportunities and a stronger sense of community."

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) will release $240 million in low interest home loans, with approximately $180 million dedicated to purchases in the Hurricane Rita Gulf Opportunity Zone. Borrowers in the Opportunity Zone will pay a low interest rate of 5.875%. They will be allowed up to 5% of the purchase amount through grants for downpayment assistance.

The Opportunity Zone residents do not have to be first time home buyers.

There are two loan options for those who purchase outside of the Zone area. The first is an unassisted loan that offers no added funds for downpayment and closing costs. The other is an assisted loan with funds offered for downpayment and closing costs.

The interest rates outside of the Zone range from 5.625% for unassisted loans to 6.125% for assisted loans.

The TDHCA will put the remaining $15 million into the Mortgage Credit Certificate Program. These certificates are available to eligible homeowners through the First Time Homebuyer Program.

"Today's announcement represents the best opportunity for many low to moderate income Texans to achieve their dream of homeownership," said TDHCA Executive Director, Michael Gerber.

"With 35 lenders participating in our programs, operating more than 300 branch offices throughout the state, Texans everywhere have a chance to begin to make a better future for themselves and their family. We encourage anyone interested in buying a home to learn how they can be a part of this initiative."

Martin Lukac represents http://www.RateEmpire.com and http://www.1AmericanFinancial.com, a finance web-company specializing in real estate and mortgage rates. We specialize in daily updates, mortgage news, rate predictions, mortgage rates and more. Find low home loan mortgage interest rates from hundreds of mortgage companies!

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Learning to Fish in Texas-Taught by the Greats

2006-07-12T04:52:00.000-07:00

By Michele Graham

I grew up in Texas and stayed at my grandmothers' house all week during the summers. My grandparents loved to go fishing. They fished, probably, every lake in Texas, before their passing.

Vacations for me were going with my grandparents on their vacations, which was always a fishing trip to Lake Dallas or Texoma Lake. George and Billie were die-hard fishermen. They started before dawn, in the dark and loaded their aluminum boat with all of their gear. I usually fell back asleep in the boat and did not wake up until we were at their favorite spot on the lake. I always felt they knew every nook and cranny the the sand bass or big mouth bass were hiding. We would stay in the boat on the lake all day, just coming in for a short break or sandwich and then back to fishing. As a child, I loved to fish, but probably not as much as they did.

When we went fishing it was the norm to bring home hundreds (or it seemed like hundreds) of fish, that my grandfather would carefully scale and clean to be put into the freezer for a wonderful fish fry at a later date. I wasn't particularly fond of fried fish at that time of my life. Back in the 50s, fileting fish wasn't done as often as it is today. Almost always, I would choke on the tiny bones in the fish, even when I was extremely careful.

Probably one of my grandparents greatest adventures was the time when my Uncle Ted took them to the Gulf of Mexico to deep sea fish. My grandparents were like two little children in their excitement and prospect of fishing the big ocean. They brought home an ice chest full of fish, including a red snapper as I remember. As an adult, my husband and I were also treated to a deep sea fishing trip by Uncle Ted. My husband, who loved to fish as well, was beside himself.

We awoke at midnight to drive to the party boat my uncle had rented, along with a hundred other thrill seekers, hoping to catch the "big" one. We were ushered into the bowel of the boat for the 3 hour trip to the fishing spot predesignated by the captain. At dawn we were awakened by the captain and told we were at our destination. I was actually looking forward to fishing for the "big" one, until I walked the stairs to the main deck to view more water than I ever imagined seeing. There was no land in sight. Immediately, my stomach was in my throat and I knew I was in trouble. I ran back downstairs to use the potty and was greeted by a sign stating " Go to the side of the boat if you are sick". This made me even sicker. There was no way I was going to throw up in front of 100 strangers. Not today, not ever.

Somehow I was able to hold this sickness all day. We did not catch the big one. A storm came up and the captain turned the boat around and headed for shore. I did not realize that the captain had been drinking beer all day and was driving the boat like a maniac. Once we were on land, we drove home. It took me two days to get over the sea sickness and to this day I have not been back to deep sea fish.

I do love to fish on a much smaller scale. I used to think my grandmother was dragged to the lake to fish. I once told her when I grew up, I would see to it that she had a real vacation. she laughed and said, "Honey, I love to fish and would not want to vacation any other way." Until the day my grandmother passed away, she would go to her little cabin at Lake Dallas and stay and fish by herself. She truly loved to fish!

Michele Graham-CEO and owner of Professional Healthcare Management has 41 years in the healthcare industry. She writes about business issues in all businesses and the healthcare field as well. She also likes to write about her life experiences.

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http://www.healthcarenewsonline.com

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Safe Driving in Dallas

2006-07-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

By stephen Graham

My Mom came to the Dallas area in the early 1900s in a covered wagon. She was a small child at this time. I don't imagine my grandparents experiencing many traffic problems due to congestion and irate drivers at that time. Things have changed in Dallas. Every summer road rage goes up to staggering proportions. Is it safe on the roads of Dallas? Statistically not that many people are killed or maimed in proportion to the population. The incidents that usually go non reported are the hand gestures and bad driving practices used by the offending persons. I was in the car with my wife for a few hours last week. If you are not exceeding the posted speed limit by at least ten miles per hour You are going to be the recipient of a hand gesture and more likely road rage. On the local LB J freeway if you are not exceeding the posted speed limit by at least fifteen miles per hour you will be passed by a multitude of cars and trucks in a matter of moments. The local interstate 20 has a very bad reputation for dangerous driving. I try to stay off of this highway at all costs. I take other freeways which lengthen my travel time but are very much safer.

My wife has been orally accosted on many occasions by out of control drivers. One incident several years ago brought the dangers of driving the local highways to mind very quickly. I was with my wife and kids driving on a local road to visit my family. A huge pick up truck with two occupants who had a rifle rack full of guns began tailgating my vehicle. I feared for the safety of my family and pressed on the brake to move the truck off of my bumper. This seemed to infuriate the driver. His actions became worse. I believed that he was trying to hit my car and drive it off into a ditch. I sped away with equal actions taken by the driver of the pick up. I exceeded the speed limit trying to out distance myself from his vehicle. I took exits off of the highway and made u turns trying to shake this vehicle. After many miles and frayed nerves I turned off of the highway into a lighted gas station. The gas station was vacant but the perpetrators probably did not know this. They cruised slowly by the station with the guns gleaming in their rack. After the truck went down the one way street I started the car and went in the opposite direction.

One afternoon while driving home from a day of mowing at my farm I encountered another situation. Road work was being done on one of the local highways. Speed limits were posted. I observed the legal limit of the law. This seemed to infuriate a young man behind me. As soon as he was able to get in front of me he swerved his car to a screeching halt at a red light. He jumped out of his car, while slamming his car door, advanced on me shouting obscenities all the way. This fellow did regain his senses and returned to his car and drove away before any serious harm could be done.

My wife had been orally accosted several times in a particular week. One incident involved a man that was behind my wife and did not care to observe the posted speed. He honked his horn at my wife for blocks and when finally being able to pass shouted o barrage of obscenities at her. She came to me and asked my advice on how to obtain relief on her daily driving tasks. I put several NRA decals on her back windshield and advised her to always carry her cell phone with her for emergencies.

I had been cut off by vehicles and was going through the same sort of trauma as my wife had experienced. I went to the local Walmart and purchased a gun rack and installed it immediately. The NRA decals went on my back windshield along with a version of the Texas State Rifle Association decal. Most drivers are suddenly more courteous to me now. Those who initially tailgate me see the error of their ways upon viewing the gun rack and fall back to a safe distance. Life in the fast lane has suddenly become less stressful.

Stephen Graham-Native Dallasite writes about his own life experiences.

http://buckskinnews.blogspot.com

http://huntn-n-fishn.blogspot.com

Reptile Stories of the Past

2006-07-08T05:45:00.000-07:00

By Stephen Graham

Living on a farm put me in close contact with all types of the slithering creatures. My sister was bitten by a snake but not a venomous snake, as a young child while swimming in the tank on our farm. When we fished at night, it brought snakes to our boat from somewhere out of the bitter gloom. When we walked around the house, it brought forth images of snakes lurking at every corner. We caught snakes on trot lines while fishing. My uncle brought snakes to our attention that he had procured out of the local barns. One of his stories involved the tale of what happened to him on one of his frog gigging adventures late one night. The eyes loomed large in the night. The frog gigs aim was true. The snake was struck and the result of the escapade was having the snake wrap itself around the arm of my surprised uncle.

The time that I was fishing out of a truck inner tube and saw a strange motion. A huge water moccasin was sunning itself on a log in the creek. I was about 5 feet from hitting the snake. The wind was blowing toward the reptile. I bailed out of the tube and swam for shore. I left my tackle box and all of my equipment to the mercy of the snake and stock tank.

Shortly after my marriage to a naive city girl, our trip to the farm brought forth images of a peaceful and relaxing week end . I enjoyed riding an old motorcycle . The kick starter on this vehicle was broken and needed the aid of another vehicle pulling it down the road through the use of an attached rope. I enlisted the aid of my wife. Off we went down the one lane rock covered winding road. She spied a snake on the side of the road in a watery ditch. I had the habit of picking up snakes and using them for show and tell. The kids really enjoyed this. I got off of of the motorcycle and preceded to club the snake. I then put it in the back of the open pick up. The motorcycle was unusually cranky this morning and balked at coming to life. My wife turned at the cross road and returned in the direction of the farm house. I was sitting on a motorcycle that was attached by a rope to the accelerating pickup. My wife was narrowly avoiding catastrophe at every turn. I could do nothing but scream at the top of my lungs. She barely missed putting my body through the barbed wire fence surrounding the family home She bailed out of the truck, shouting something that I could not understand. The snake had recovered his senses and was trying to get at my wife through the open pick up window. Water moccasins are very aggressive and if threatened will not shy away from a fight. The snake got out of the truck and backed me up about 15 feet. It struck at everything that it could see. The escapade ended after many near hits by the large snake.

My wife and I enjoyed boating and camping. The tent was erected on the shore line. The boat was in the water. The storm was coming. Everyone on the lake tried to use the boat ramp at once. The wind blew my craft into the rocks. The shear pin snapped in the motor. This pin allows the motor to function. I needed the help of my dear wife. While she held the bow of the boat in chest deep water , I would be at the stern repairing the motor. Dusk was approaching and I was moving rapidly. Not fast enough for the two water snakes that appeared on each side of me next to the motor. I weighed the severity of the situation. It seemed to me that the need to fix the motor outweighed the problem of the snakes. If I warned my wife the efforts to fix the motor and get back to the boat ramp would be curtailed. She screamed as the two snakes swam between her legs. The whole escapade came to a screaming halt.

I had not cut the long grass in weeks. Walking through the field one day I lost my balance and fell. The spot where I fell was not where I wanted to be. I had left a short log about 6 inches in diameter at the very spot. A large snake had rested next to the log. My foot landed on top of the snake. My foot continued movement with the flexibility of the snake skin helping it along. I kept moving until my foot hit the log. Down I came. I believe that I got up faster than I went down.

I found a copperhead snake down by the old hog pens. A large stick struck at the right part of the anatomy of the snake seemed to solve the situation. It was show and tell day. It was a long walk back to the house through tall grass. The kids were waiting. I was within 100 yards of the house when the snake began to move. It fell off the stick which I had used to carry it. It fell right at my feet in the tall grass. Another sticky situation that could be solved by fast action.

I have walked among snakes all of my life. I have come in close contact to water moccasins, copperheads,bull,chicken,coral and timber rattlesnakes. I have stepped on them and next to them. I have swam with them. I have never been bitten by them. I have had many narrow escapes. Snakes have struck at me at me with no ill effects. As a youngster I walked among them bare footed. Having matured, I now use snake proof gaiters when I know that I am moving in areas with high snake populations.

Stephen Graham- Avid hunter and fisherman, is a native Texan. He writes articles, drawing from his own experiences in life.

(C)2006 Stephen Graham

http://goodstuffintexas.blogspot.com

http://huntn-n-fishn.blogspot.com

http://buckskinnews.blogspot.com

Raising and Catching Catfish

2006-06-29T06:09:00.000-07:00

By Stephen Graham

The channel catfish,one of the best tasting and sport friendly fish made for the rod angler. I believe that this fish reigns supreme in it's habitat. A fish made for fishing by kids of all ages. you can have a good time catching and eating this fish. Watch out for it's fins and have a pair of pliers or skin pullers at the ready and you will be prepared for a great experience. Chicken liver reigns supreme as bait to catch him. There are also many baits ready made by manufacturers to get him on your hook . Since the channel grows to such large proportions,a large hook and tough terminal gear should be used. I have kids and grandchildren who love to fish. Bass need bigger areas of water in which to live and grow large. Sun fish and bream are okay but they do not grow to large sizes. Kids love to catch the smaller fish but are especially delighted to have a change of pace and have a chance to hook into Mr. whiskers.

I wanted an area where my children could have fun in a clean environment. I had a stock tank built on my property for a reasonable cost. I started to build a fishing pier by myself.The rains came and the pond began to fill up with water. Any ideas that I had in my head about putting post supports in the ground for the pier were dashed. I obtained 55 gallon non metal drums at a reasonable cost and began to work. I built the floating pier next to the waters' edge without the use of any electricity. I used drills that worked off of batteries and hammer and nails, I used treated wood and spiral nails that would not rust in the elements. I used my 6 year old as a pilot to test the stability of my project. After several dunks in the water I added structure onto the pier until it was very stable. I added a box structure on the end of the pier to hold one of my deer feeders. I cut a hole in the bottom and bolted the feeder down. Since I was one person and trying to find the most simple and most efficient means for building, I installed ropes on both sides in two locations. The ropes were secured to trees on the shoreline. The ropes could be secured so that they would not interfere with your fishing. This setup also aids levity in the natural rise and fall of water levels.

I went on a shopping trip to one of the local fish hatcheries, I came away with several hundred channel catfish in plastic bags, The fingerlings averaged from 4-6 inches long. I had already procured cat fish chow from one of the local feed stores. Dog food will do just as well. I put the pellets into the feeder and set the timer to discharge feed early in the morning and about 1 hour before sunset. Monitoring the quantity of pellets released can give you a good idea of how much the fish are actually eating and how much is waste. I changed the batteries in the feeder occasionally and watched as the fish came up to feed on the floating pellets. Catfish do not eat as much in winter months, so adjust the feed output accordingly. I waited until the fish reached a certain length before fishing was allowed.

After 2 1/2 years wait the kids and family were catching catfish that weighed 8 pounds. We had many fish fries where many families were fed. My kids and family looked forward to going fishing at the stock tank and many good times were enjoyed by us all. Outdoor activities like fishing are good ways for kids and adults to spend their leisure time. In this instance we were bringing a lot of food home to the larder. MY son developed an affinity for the outdoors and now my grandchildren are beginning to reap the rewards of my efforts so many years ago.

Stephen Graham-Avid outdoors man has spent his life in Texas fishing and hunting.

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http://goodstuffintexas.blogspot.com

Deer Hunting Guns in Texas

2006-06-28T06:15:00.000-07:00

By Stephen Graham

Are you planning your first deer hunting trip in Texas or are you a seasoned veteran? The Texas white tailed deer is not overly large as deer go. Deer up in the northern parts of the country and Canada tend to get larger. The hunters in Texas are blessed with a prolific deer herd that covers a good part of the state. Though the deer are not overly large they do require certain caliber requirements. Anything 22 caliber or below is considered verbotten and illegal in the state. The bigger caliber rifles tend to have harder bullets that will not expand as readily as the smaller calibers. I would not suggest the 416 Remington Magnum that I used on a buffalo hunt several years ago as a good choice for deer sized game.

Calibers from the 243 Remington up to the 30 caliber magnums are widely used here in the state. The magnums tend to be used more in open country where long shots are considered the norm. The 30-06 is a very versatile choice for any type of hunting The 243 Remington is adequate but should only be used with 100 grain bullets. Any caliber that will bring about a quick and humane kill is just about right for white tail hunting. Shorter barrels are better suited to confined spaces,tree stands,hunting blinds and the deep woods where vegetation might become a problem with longer barrels. In the deep woods where shots are not overly long,the lever action with its' associated calibers will fill the bill quite nicely. The 30-30 Winchester with a 170 grain bullet works like lightening on deer. My personal favorite is a 45-70 that I handload up to about 2,000 f.p.s. I use a hollow point which has given me nothing but complete satisfaction. I usually find the spent bullet up against the hide of the deer. It uses all of it's stored energy inside of the deer where it will do the most good. The innards of a deer are usually reduced to confetti size material with this round.

I have used the 243 to blow fist sized holes in deer. This limits their activities and stops a tracking job that might have to be done at night. The 35 Remington is more dramatic on deer than the 30-30. The 30-06 or it's cousin the 308 with 150 and 180 grain bullets tend to bring a hunting situation to a quick closeure. I like the lever action calibers that use blunt nose bullets.The blunt nose bullets have a more dramatic effect on game than their sharper nosed counterparts. You don't need specialty bullets for deer except for use in the big magnums. You need tough bullets at the speed some of these calibers are attaining.

I own a 30-378 Weatherby magnum in which I only use Barnes x and Nosler bullets in hunting situations I have shot deer with this caliber at extreme ranges. The rifle and caliber combination works well along with it's component 6x20 scope. You have to match the conditions to your choice of caliber. A rifle that works wonderfully at long range would not necessarily be the right choice for the deep woods.

Hand guns for hunting have become very popular in recent years. Most of the single shots like the Contender and Encore in correct calibers will do the job nicely. The 44 magnum,45 colt,454 casull and the new Smith and Wesson handguns are right on target. The 460 Smith and Wesson with it's great engineering and radical bullets will shoot as true as a rifle up to about 200 yards.

Pair the right caliber to your style of hunting. Resist the temptation to get too large of a boomer. You will not be able to shoot it as acurately as a smaller caliber and it might lead you into a habit of flinching with every shot. This habit does nothing at all to enhance your accuracy. African hunters long ago realized that a heavy bullet travelling about 2400 f.p.s. was about the best medicine for their tasks at hand. A light and fast bullet at close ranges tended to blow up and disentergrate on the hide with little internal harm to the animal. Enjoy your sport and be safe with your firearms. Following these guidelines will enable a growing number of hunters to participate in this ritual year after year.

Stephen Graham- Avid hunter and outdoorsman has hunted in Texas and other states.

http://www.phmnetwork.com

http://huntn-n-fishn.blogspot.com

http://phmnetwork.blogspot.com

Deer Hunting in Texas-Synonym for White Tail Deer

2006-06-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

The big state of Texas is synonymous with white tail deer hunting. Because it is so big there are different ways to hunt them in completely different landscapes.

Hunting in south Texas is usually done on big privately owned ranches. Most deer hunting in Texas is done on private land. The bigger the horns, the bigger the price tag. Usually when you think of big deer and horns you think of south Texas. Hunting towards Abilene out west usually rewards you with good results. Going north towards the red river involves trees and open spaces. Hunting east towards Louisiana puts you in a completely different geographic area. There you will find trees and more trees and forests beyond comprehension.

Out east the bag limits are usually smaller than the rest of the state, except in years of overpopulation when extra tags are offered. In the past a limit of five deer was offered in Brown county. On one hunt in Brown county our hunting party spotted hundreds of deer in an hours worth of scouting on the ranch. On an area in the next county over a scouting trip intense scouting revealed no tracks at all. The owner offered to let us hunt on his private ranch down by the river if we did not connect on a deer by the closing dates of the season. Down by Athens,Texas, the deer are big but become nocturnal with little hunting pressure. we travel down to Junction,Texas and the deer are easy to see because they readily come to feeders because generally the land is poor and food is scarce. Out east during times of huge acorn production ,deer are hard to come by because they will not come to feeders during day light hours. All they have to do is travel a few yards to get their nourishment from fallen acorns. Down south food plots are very advantageous. Baiting with corn down the senderos is a fixed practice,with very good results. Heat is the downside to Hunting in Texas. Temperature in the 80s are sometimes the norm in this area.

What I am beginning to see in Texas is a plan to gather deer with good genes from all over the state and reintroduce quality deer to that specific area. There are a great many ranches all over the state that offer high fences,quality deer, bunking facilities.airport pick up service,quality guides,carcass preparation and meat and taxidermy services. The culinary services at these places is usually quite good also.

Deer feeders are the norm in Texas. To be within the law you must have these feeders in operation for a certain time period. Hunters on a restricted budget can get a public hunting permit. There are not many things more relaxing than sitting at your favorite deer site and enjoying the moment. For a more competitive hunt you can venture to some of the better ranches where management practices are in effect. Some ranches that I have hunted require the harvesting of only bucks that are 8 points or better. You had better not harvest anything smaller or you will pay for the oversight out of your pocket book.

Have a safe and enjoyable hunting season putting your wits up against the master of the woods. The wily whitetail deer has made many of us seem like rank amateurs. Year after year we pursue this crafty veteran of camouflage and escape. For those of us that are hooked , we never tire of the challenge and the time spent outdoors with one of the craftiest animals on earth. Hunt safe and hunt hard and maybe this season you will be rewarded with new knowledge and a far greater respect for the white tailed deer. Adios amigos

Stephen Graham-Avid hunter and outdoorsman has years of experience hunting in Texas and other states. Other interests include fishing and Indian lore and artifacts.

http://www.phmnetwork.com

http://huntn-n-fishn.blogspot.com

2006-06-02T05:50:00.000-07:00

Habanero Hot Sauce – Beware!
By Chris McCarthy

The Habanero hot sauce is an icon amongst all the various types of hot sauces that are available in the market. Chili peppers are fruits of plants hailing from the Capsicum genre and Habanero happens to be the most spicy and hot pepper in this lineage. The habanero pepper is a small lantern, round or oblong shaped pepper with small creases and the colors range from green to bright orange when ripe. The habanero’s size can vary from 1" - 2.5" in length and 1" - 2" in diameter and it is the hottest chile on the Scoville scale, with an intense flaming, flowery flavor.

The habanero pepper is believed to have originated in Cuba and the word Habanero means "From Havana". Cuba is also where the hottest of all Habanero peppers is from. This habanero is named the Red Savina Habanero, which has even made to the Guinness Book of World Records as the “world’s hottest spice”. The Habanero is local to the Caribbean, Cuba, Yucatan, Texas, California and north coast of South America.

The Habanero hot sauce, as the name suggests, is made from this legendary Habanero pepper and is famed to be the hottest sauce around.

The sizzling Habanero Hot Sauce with its trademark tangy, lemony-flavor and flowery fragrance is a popular accompaniment in cuisines all around the world. However, not all Habanero sauces are equally hot. The heat intensity depends on the type of Habanero pepper being used.

The Habanero pepper hot sauce is produced by varied manufacturers. For instance, Ashley Food Co. offers an unique Habanero flavored flaming Mad Cat hot sauce, while Dave Gourmet’s Dave’s Insanity hot sauce is a veritable raging hot sauce. With your tongue and the entire intestinal tract up in flames, you would realize what made Dave insane.

Amongst the Habanero pepper hot sauce, there are interesting variations like the Florida-based Hog’s Ass Garlic Habanero pepper hot sauce. This is an inimitable blend of fresh vegetable juice, vinegar and garlic and has the entire state swooning over it.

Hot sauce manufacturers have come up many different kinds of Habanero sauces like the Habanero pepper hot sauce From Hell and befitting the name, this hot sauce releases hellish heat. Another hell raiser is the tomato-based Paw-Paws Snake Bite hot sauce or Idiot Boys Habanero Hot Sauce. This 2005 Scovie Award Winner proves its merit with a piquant taste that is sure to set off the fire alarms.

There are countless numbers of hot sauces doing the rounds but nothing quite matches the habanero variety in zing and definitely the intense heat that it can generate. No wonder, the Habanero Hot Sauce has been catapulted to a cult status among sauce lovers of the world.

Chris McCarthy is the owner of InsaneChicken's Hot Sauce and BBQ Sauce Catalog. Check out the large selection of hot sauces on http://www.InsaneChicken.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_McCarthy

2006-05-26T07:13:00.000-07:00

The State of Cowboys and Country, Oil and Space
By Constance Blair

A state, where country music style was born, the second biggest state in area and the third in population Texas has a lot to offer and is surely worth visiting.

The first known settlement was founded in this place in 1682 by the Spanish. Originally Texas was a part of Mexico. In 1836 after the notorious battle near Alamo Texas received its independence but in 1845 joined the United States of America.

The main cities of the state – Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, El Paso, Fort Worth, Austin and Corpus Christie.

Texas is not a resort destination, but as a part of it lies on the shores of the Mexican Gulf, I has some pleasant places to have a rest. Other interesting sights are the National Reserve of Padre Island, national parks of Big Bend and Guadelupe Mountains, Alamo mission in San Antonio, Capitol in Austin etc.

The biggest and the main cities in Texas are Houston and Dallas and in this article we take look at them.

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States. Like in all the big cities skyscrapers here dominate the panorama, but like the city with the rich history counting more than 150 years, it has a lot of attractions and interesting museums. National Museum of Funeral History and Museum of Fine Arts are just some of them. Texas is known as the state of cowboys, so different cowboys shows and rodeos are still common here.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is one of the major events of the year in the city. It begins in late February lasts for about a month. Besides riders competing in traditional rodeo events, visitor can watch national and international superstar musical entertainers performance.

Those who are fond of nature can be interested in visiting Downtown Aquarium and Houston Zoo. Aquarium is great place for family walk and the home to sea creatures of every shape and size. Houston Zoo represents more than 500 species, from the winged inhabitants of the Tropical Bird House to the slithering reptiles in one of the nation's largest collections of venomous snakes.

Houston is often mentioned in connection with space and especially ISS. It’s Houston where Space Center is located.
Dallas is mainly known for its oil derricks and for the soap opera “Dallas”. It is almost as old as Houston (founded in 1841) but also looks very contemporary.

Dallas is the third-most-populous city in the state and the epicenter of the North Texas region's art scene. Notable art venues include the Dallas Museum of Art, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, The Trammell & Margaret Crow Collection of Asian Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center.

For booking a hotel in Houston, please, go to Houston hotels page.

For booking a hotel in Dallas, please, go to Dallas hotels page.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Constance_Blair

2006-05-22T20:55:00.000-07:00

Facts Out About Texas
By Tom Strayhorn

The facts out about Texas are very interesting. In addition you can find a good selection of Texas maps on line using the search words Texas State map. This is state is packed with a lot of history!

The capital city of Texas is Austin. With a population of 20,044,141 Texas is a great place to meet cowboys. One would wonder how many tourist have traveled Texas in hopes of meeting a real cowboy.

The nickname for Texas is the Lone Star State. Is it called because of the vast distances between its borders. These boundaries cover a total of 262,015 sq miles of land Texas borders Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Texans like to claim that they are the largest state but really they are the second largest state, Alaska being the largest.
The Texas motto is friendship which is based on a word used by the Caddo Indians meaning friends. Expressions like howdy can be heard from one corner of the state to the other and not just by cowboys and cowgirls. The Texans are a mighty friendly group that live in 254 counties covering from the Gulf of Mexico to the plains and the mountains. You will not find a friendlier or more interesting group of folks.

All the modern conveniences you will ever need can be found in the large cities like Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, El Paso and the capital Austin. Texas’s large cities have one advantage over other large cities because they have maintained that wild west charm from an era gone by. There are also many historical sites found all over Texas. And there is never any worry about finding the true nature of Texas and its residents. The wild west is in their blood.

Did you know that a Virginian Sam Houston was president of the Republic of Texas for two separate terms? Houston was president from 1836 to 1838 then from 1841to 1844. He also was governor of the state of Texas from 1859 to 1861.

Did you know that José Antonio Navarro the signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence and one of the founders of the Constitution of the Republic, was a Texas native? He was born in San Antonio in 1795. Navarro also served in the Republic of Texas Congress and the Constitutional Convention in 1845. Navarro County was named in his honor.

The first Congress of the Republic of Texas convened in October 1836 at Columbia which is now known as West Columbia.
Texas history is as big as their Texan hats. Texas has a wealth of history including the last battle of the civil war of America. You could spend a life time looking at all the historical sites in Texas.

So why not come explore one of the greatest states in the U.S.A. Facts out about Texas can be found on the internet. Start planning your visit and find out why we are the friendly state.

Tom Strayhorn is one of the few real cowboys left so why not saddle up and come visit him at http://www.cowboys-n-campfires.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Strayhorn

2006-05-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

Vacation Rentals In Beautiful Texas
B
y David Goldschmidt
Booking Texas vacation rentals can be done just about any time of the year because many of the prime vacation spots are on the Gulf of Mexico which experiences mild weather all year long. Texas vacation rentals are in high demand, but because there are such a variety of great times to visit the popular areas, you can almost book one if you give just a bit of notice. Texas vacation rentals come in all shapes and sizes, so you can come and visit just about any time!

If you've never booked or stayed in Texas vacation rentals, you might want to browse around the Internet and check out local listings for vacation rentals. When you browse the Internet you're often able to see pictures and prices for the rentals to get a great idea of what you'll be paying for. When you see the vacation rentals through pictures you'll feel comfortable knowing what sort of condition the rental is in, how far it is from the beach and other attractions, and also if it's worth the money. Because there tends to be different prices for vacation rentals throughout Texas, seeing pictures on these web sites makes it much easier to know what you're getting for your money.

Texas vacation rentals are often houses, condominiums, or townhouses that are owned by people who live in other areas of the state or even other parts of the country. Knowing that people who actually use them own these vacation rentals should be of comfort; that usually means that they are well cared for and your stay will likely be a very comfortable one. However, you are often required to sign contracts in case anything in the home is damaged in anyway. You should not be alarmed at such a request; this is simply the way that these owners keep their properties in great condition.

Texas vacations rentals are very popular because of the beaches, the weather, and all the beautiful things to see and experience. Texas is one of the best places to visit because the locals are very hospitable in addition to the beauty that is abundant all along the Gulf Coast and even further inland. There is a Texas vacation rental for everyone, with such a huge selection of rental properties, you'll have a hard time choosing just one to rent!

Courtesy of GreatFamilyRentals.com, a leading directory of vacation rentals by owner. Find villas, condos, etc. Owners can list vacation rentals for more bookings.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Goldschmidt