Zoysia & Yellow Spots

Homeowners often notice yellow spots developing on their lawn, which detracts from its appearance. Zoysia is a popular turf grass and is subject to a number of damaging pests and diseases. Identifying the cause of yellow spots in your lawn is key to managing insect infestations and diseases and restoring your lawn to good health. Does this Spark an idea?

Identification

Zoysia is a warm-season turf grass that is highly versatile. This turf grass is often used in ballparks, golf courses and in many residential lawns. This grass flourishes in many types of soil, including sandy soil, clay soil and in alkaline soils. Zoysia grass is adapted to many areas of the United States and it grows well in shady locations. However, zoysia does not fare as well in cooler areas. It is very popular in Florida because of its extreme tolerance to drought and salt. Zoysia is tolerant of wear but is susceptible to insects and diseases that can cause it to develop yellow patches.

Disease Causes

Yellow spots in zoysia is most often caused by the fungus Bipolaris tetramera, which is also commonly found in Bermuda grass. This fungus causes a thinning of turf grass, followed by brown spots that run up and down grass stems. Stolons and roots often begin to rot, developing a dark brown appearance. Eventually, yellow lesions begin to form on the lawn. The canopy of the lawn becomes very thin and discolored.

Insect Causes

Insect infestations can cause zoysia to turn yellow in various spots on the lawn. The hunting billbug is a weevil that is also commonly referred to as the zoysia billbug. According to the University of Florida IFAS Extension, the hunting billbug has been reported in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, Missouri, Virginia and Texas. The adult form of this pest is a weevil that measures 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. Hunting billbugs have a curved snout and are gray, reddish-brown or black. The larvae of the hunting billbug is often mistaken for the common white grub and is white with a brown head capsule. This pest is the most commonly recorded destructive pest of zoysia grass and damage appears as small yellow spots on the lawn, which gradually become larger from billbug feeding. Heavy infestations of this pest can kill grass inside the yellow spots, often totally destroying grass roots. Zoysia infested with hunting billbugs can often be rolled back easily and grubs may be easily spotted under the turf.

Control

Keep your zoysia free from stress to maintain good health. Avoid using nitrogen-rich fertilizers and avoid overwatering your lawn, as this encourages fungal growth. Fungicides are available for the treatment of fungal diseases in your zoysia. Avoid mowing your zoysia grass to very low heights. Infestations of hunting billbugs in your zoysia can be controlled by applying insecticides available at your garden center. Roll back a portion of lawn grass to determine if you have hunting billbugs. If 10 billbugs or billbug larvae are found per square foot, insecticides are recommended.

Tags: turf grass, your zoysia, hunting billbug, yellow spots, your lawn, also commonly

Youth Football Speed Training

Youth Football Speed Training

Training young football players to increase their speed should be handled differently than older players. Young football players should stay away from doing a lot of weightlifting, which could put too much stress on their young bodies and lead to injuries. Many other drills and exercises can be performed by young football players to help them increase their speed. Speed is mainly a natural ability, but can be improved with proper training.

Running Drills

Running drills will only help young athletes increase their speed if they practice the right way. A basic but simple drill involves performing multiple sprints at different lengths. Football specific conditioning will also be improved with this drill. Most football plays only last a few seconds, followed by 30 or 40 seconds of rest. Have players sprint for 10 yards followed by approximately 30 seconds of rest. Increase each sprint by 10 yards until they sprint for 40 yards. Most players will be exhausted after the 40 yard sprint. Consider increasing sprinting length if players are capable of continuing. Monitor players during this drill. Make sure they are running at full strength and are safe. Sit players out who seem extremely fatigued to avoid injury. Emphasize good running technique with each sprint.

Footwork Drills

Developing quicker feet will also help develop speed. Speed ladders are versatile pieces of equipment that many footwork drills can be performed with. Speed ladders are laid on the ground and are made up of small squares. Drills performed on speed ladders make players move their feet rapidly in different directions. The most basic drill is to have players run the length of the speed ladder but placing each foot in every square as they run. Consult with local trainers and football coaches for a complete list and explanation of drills.

Weight Training

Train young players with very basic weight lifting exercises. Weight training young players too much isn’t good for their health. According to the Mayo Clinic, train young athletes with light resistance and controlled movements. Train them with exercises where they use their own body weigh such as standing squats and calf raises. Free weights and machine exercises such as leg presses and leg curls will be safe for young athletes. Lunges performed with dumbbells or barbells will be a lot safer than traditional straight bar squats because lighter weight will be used. There is a big difference between weight training and strength training. Weight training is usually how bodybuilders and older athletes train. Weight training is done to increase muscle mass. Young athletes should concentrate on getting stronger, not bigger.

Stretching

Most young players don’t understand the importance of stretching. Flexible legs will help in a variety of ways. Running with longer strides will be achieved easier with flexible legs. Reducing the chance of injury will be greatly reduced if legs are warmed up and stretched properly. Place one leg straight out so the foot is resting on a box or other elevated object. Lean forward at the waist until you feel a slight stretch in the hamstring. Hold that position to stretch your hamstrings. Switch legs so each leg gets stretched out equally. Another good stretching exercise involves grabbing your foot and pulling it back, trying to touch your buttocks while standing. Stop when you feel a slight stretch of your quadriceps. Switch legs when finished. Each stretch should be held for approximately 30 seconds to achieve maximum benefits. Young players should stretch every day, especially on days of lifting or running. Loose and limber legs will make them feel and perform better.

Considerations

Start with the basics, don’t overwhelm young athletes. These players are just beginning their playing careers and need to start slow. Teaching them basic lifts and drills will help develop a strong base to build upon. Teach players train efficiently, but also safely.

Tags: football players, increase their, increase their speed, sprint yards, their speed, young athletes

Youth Football Camps In Denver

Youth Football Camps in Denver

Youth football camps are a fun way four youngsters to spend time and develop their skills in the sport. Camps are available in Denver, Colorado to develop a player's fundamental football skills or showcase his abilities as a youth football player. Important factors to consider when choosing a youth football camp in Denver include the quality of location and coaching staff who will work with the players.

Offense-Defense Sports

Offense-Defense Sports is a nationwide brand that markets itself as America's No. 1 youth football camp. Offense-Defense had 40 nationwide camp locations as of 2010, including an event June 6 to June 9 at Colorado Christian University in Denver. The camp has a full-contact curriculum identical nationwide that allows players to spend more than seven hours per day on the field. The drills are detailed, comprehensive and designed to have players better prepared to take the field for their teams. Offense-Defense camps offer an impressive staff consisting of present NFL coaches, ex-NFL coaches, college coaches and NFL professional players. In 2010, the Offense-Defense camps offer a residential option, including 24-hour supervision for $760, or a day camper option for $399. Offense-Defense camps alumni include Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice. NFL players who have appeared as camp staff include Denver Broncos left tackle Ryan Clady.

Mile High Football Camp

Mile High Football Camp is also based at Colorado Christian University in 2010. The camp curriculum stresses all phases of the game of youth football and works on improving individual techniques for specific offensive and defensive positions. The 2009 event ran from June 21 to June 24. Future dates are to be confirmed. Residential camper spots are available for $475 and day campers for $350. Professional players who have visited the Mile High Football Camp include former Denver Broncos wide receiver Ed McCaffrey, and both starting quarterbacks in the 2010 Super Bowl, Drew Brees and Peyton Manning. Coaches working at the camp include NFL, college and high school coaches, among them Chuck Pagano of the Baltimore Ravens.

Colorado Youth Football Camps

Colorado Youth Football camps are the official camp of the Colorado Youth Football organization. The Colorado Youth Football philosophy is to provide solid fundamental football skills in a relaxed atmosphere, teaching techniques that are vital to a youth football player reaching his full potential. Some of the possible camp sites in the Denver suburbs include Shea Stadium in Highlands Ranch and Lutheran High School in Parker, with three days of instruction at four hours per day. Colorado Youth Football camps are not residential. Local football coaches make up the core of the staff, and are joined by recruited high school and football coaches to offer instruction.

Tags: Colorado Youth, Colorado Youth Football, youth football, Youth Football, High Football

Yoga Techniques To Help One Quit Smoking

GardenTranquility

Trying to quit smoking can be quite a challenge. One of the best ways to reduce the cravings of nicotine is to practice yoga. The relaxation, meditation and mild stretching techniques of yoga can not only help reduce the stress of trying to quit smoking, but will enhance your health.

Remaining Focused

One of the hardest things about trying to quit smoking is remaining focused on what you want to accomplish. During the first 3 days of quitting, the urge to smoke can be overwhelming. Quite often when you are stressed, the first thing you want to do is reach for a cigarette. So keeping the mind focused is crucial if you want to quit.

One of the many health benefits of yoga is the increased ability to relax. There are many types of yoga, which originated about 6,000 years ago in India. The most common in the United States is Hatha yoga. Hatha yoga includes physical postures or poses, yogic breathing and meditation.

Yoga is a mind-body technique that involves exercises, deep breathing and meditation. When you are trying to quit smoking, there are physical and emotional symptoms to combat. Withdrawal from cigarettes may be accompanied by emotional symptoms such as anger, insomnia, anxiety, tiredness or depression. The endorphins that are released during the practice of yoga may help with depression and also help you relax when you are feeling nervous, temperamental or anxious.

The physical symptoms of cigarette withdrawals can include strong food cravings, headaches or coughing. By doing yoga you increase lung capacity, improve circulation and expand the respiratory system.

It takes only a few minutes to overcome the sudden urge to grab a cigarette. So it is vital that you have something to do that will help you get past the hurdle. According to the Lung Association of Saskatchewan it is best to wait out the sudden urge for a cigarette by doing something different. The Lung Association states that the craving should only last a few minutes and that you should try to exercise, touch your toes or do some deep breathing.

Here are some exercises that will be helpful when the sudden urge to smoke overwhelms you. As with any new exercise program, you should consult a professional for advice before starting.

Breathing

Deep breathing exercises not only decreases the urge to smoke but it creates more oxygen. When you have the immediate urge to smoke you can do breathing techniques right where you are standing. You can also take a quiet moment to relax and sit down in your favorite area and begin your breathing exercises. Begin with these simple steps:

If you are sitting down, get as comfortable as possible. Try to keep your back straight, for it helps you breath easier.

If you are standing, stand tall and straight by keeping your back aligned.

You can also lie down, but usually it is best to sit or stand.

Close your eyes, take a deep breath and then slowly exhale. Try not to hyperventilate by taking quick breaths. Your breathing should be natural and not forced. Lightly pucker your lips while you exhale; this will help the air come out slowly.

Concentrate on your breathing and let go of all your thoughts. Every time a thought invades your mind, return your focus back to breathing.

Continue deep breathing for at least 3 minutes.

You can also envision all your worries, anxieties and problems leaving your body while doing deep breathing exercises and meditation. Visualization can be a wonderful way to get rid of stress and can also build self-confidence.

Exercises

First start out by doing your breathing exercises to help relax your body and to release any tension in your muscles.

Bring your shoulders to your ears, roll your shoulders back and then gently release. Do this exercise two or three times.

Bring your head down toward your chest while exhaling, hold your chin on your chest for about 10 to 15 seconds, and then repeat the process three or more times.

Extend your legs and slowly stretch your body forward to touch your toes. Do not worry if you cannot reach your toes; when you stretch it should feel comfortable. Come up slowly and repeat the stretch a few more times.

Tags: breathing exercises, urge smoke, sudden urge, trying quit smoking, your body

Yoga Cruises

Most yoga cruises welcome practitioners at all levels.

As yoga has grown in popularity in the United States, some cruise operators have begun to offer tours that combine a vacation with yoga classes and workshops. Yoga cruises are for all yoga practitioners, from beginner to advanced. In addition to yoga, guests on these cruises can enjoy all the pleasures of a traditional cruise vacation.

YogaCruise

The eight-day YogaCruise, along the Turkish Mediterranean coast, offers yoga classes twice a day. Accommodations on the sailing yacht are cabins with private baths. Traditional Mediterranean and Turkish meals are prepared from scratch using local and seasonal ingredients, such as yogurt and olives. Excursions include visits to local villages, ancient ruins and a Turkish bath, known as a hamam. The yacht can also be chartered for a private yoga cruise. Cruises depart from Finike Harbor, Turkey, in June, July, September and October.

YogaCruise

1078 JD

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

31-0-6-4166-7833

yogacruise.net

Maine Windjammer Cruises

Maine Windjammer's five-day Yoga Cruise offers sunrise and evening meditation and daily yoga classes. Cruises depart from Maine Windjammer's home port of Camden, Maine, and travelers are encouraged to spend time before or after their cruise exploring the Camden area. The Yoga Cruise is held aboard Maine Windjammer's flagship, the Grace Bailey, which was built in 1882 and is registered as a national landmark.

Maine Windjammer Cruises

Camden, ME 04843

207-236-2938

mainewindjammercruises.com

Holistic Holiday at Sea

Holistic Holiday at Sea is a yoga cruise offered by A Taste of Health. A yoga master leads classes that are geared toward beginner and intermediate students. Yoga workshops are also included in the cruise fees, and guests can take classes in meditation, vegetarian cooking and integrative medicine. Meals are vegan. During the seven-day cruise, which departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, guests visit several ports of call, including Key West, Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and San Miguel de Cozumel, Mexico. The cruise ship is the MSC Poesia, which is eco-friendly, with non-toxic paint and advanced water-treatment systems.

A Taste of Health

434 Aragon Ave.

Coral Gables, FL 33134

305-725-0081

atasteofhealth.org

Sailacat

Held aboard a French catamaran, Sailacat's yoga cruise offers daily yoga classes, workshops and meditations. The ship's captain has taught yoga for 20 years and leads the on-board classes. Guests can also hike, kayak and snorkel in Paradise Island, Bahamas, in the winter, or cruise the Hamptons, in New York, in the summer. Meals are traditional or vegetarian. The ship is available for private charters for up to 10 guests at a time.

Sailacat

631-682-8288

sailacat.com

Tags: Maine Windjammer, yoga classes, classes workshops, Cruises depart, Cruises depart from, daily yoga, daily yoga classes

Tips & Trends For Event Fundraising

Charities and fundraising have been around for a long time, and for event fundraising efforts to be effective they must change with the times. The methods that may have worked 20 or 30 years ago may still be effective today, but they could also utilize changes in society and technology to be even more effective. Charities need donations to provide assistance and programs, and effective event fundraising tactics bring in more donations.

Social Networking

The Internet connects millions of people, and while those who would benefit from a charitable organization may not always be able to afford Internet access, many donors can be found on social networking sites. A charity should make good use of these free resources and create a presence on as many social networking websites as possible. Also set up an account on popular Internet payment companies so people can make donations directly from the Internet. This is an excellent way to reach people all over the world who may need the charitable organization's help, or want to make a donation.

Word-of-Mouth Advertising

Word-of-mouth advertising remains one of the more powerful forms of free advertising available. A charitable organization can bring attention to an upcoming event by creating a network of people to spread the word and create interest. Use people that the charity has helped in the past as well as donors to alert others that a fundraising event is coming up. When people hear something from someone they know, it tends to carry more weight, and that can make your charitable event a success.

Target Your Message

When asking people to donate to your cause, operate under the notion that you are giving a sales pitch. Even if you feel that your charity is a very worthy cause, you have a very limited amount of time to make an impact and express that message to a prospective donor. Keep your message concise, and always get right to the point. Whether you are speaking to a donor face-to-face or sending out a mass mailing, use brief and direct language to effectively get your point across.

Tags: charitable organization, event fundraising

Yellow Spots On New Sod

Sod needs to be properly handled and laid quickly to prevent drying out and yellowing.

Sod is the quickest way to a green, lush lawn. Site preparation is of primary importance when installing a sod lawn. Soil tests need to be done before the grass is laid so you can amend any adverse conditions. These would include the pH of the soil and the nutrient content. Improper soil conditioning can bring about yellowing and cause poor rooting in a new sod lawn. New sod can also come with diseases or poor disease resistance, which can cause problems in the turf. Does this Spark an idea?

Preparation to Avoid Sod Problems

A soil test should reveal a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for the best performance in turf grass. Soil can be sweetened or acidity increased with lime or sulfur. The soil test can also determine if there is enough mineral content in the soil. Poor nutrition is another cause of yellowing and poor appearance in new sod. Inadequate drainage can build a weak root structure in the sod and cause numerous problems if not corrected. Soils cannot be too wet or dry for sod. Heavy incorporation of sand is often required to break up clay and enhance drainage.

Dogs

We all love our pets but their daily deposits of nitrogen-rich waste can leave yellow spots on turf grass. Nitrogen in concentration can burn plant roots and the excess salts can leave soil saturated and damaged. The salts cause moisture in the leaf blades to evaporate which can make them dry out and yellow. The area will eventually grow out of it if the pet can leave the spot alone. Unfortunately, dogs are drawn to urine-saturated areas and it can be a challenge to keep them away long enough for the young sod to recover.

Overwatering

Constant moisture invites root rot, leading to yellow spots in the grass above. Often this is due to poor drainage. Grasses laid on clay soils will suffer from this problem since they need to be kept moist but the collected water under the sod can't drain away. This is why it is so important to correctly cultivate the bed before laying the sod.

Diseases

Rhizoctonia yellow patch often occurs on new turf laid over heavy soil. The disease is brought on by a fungus that comes out in cool, wet weather. The patches the fungus produces are 2 to 3 inches in diameter. As the disease spreads, the patch can grow to 2 feet across and will be bordered by reddish looking blades of grass. Yellow tuft is another fungal disease that can attack young grass. The disease produces small scattered yellow spots that are raised above the general turf surface. It is also found in poorly drained or heavily irrigated areas.

Tags: soil test, turf grass, yellow spots

Workplace Injury Rights

Employers must provide medical care to workers injured on the job.

The legal definition of a workplace injury is one that that "arises out of and in the course of employment," and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 3.3 million reported non-fatal workplace injuries in 2009, excluding those that involved local, state and federal government employees.

Employers have a duty to provide a safe, healthy workplace for their workers. When a worker is injured as a result of work-related activities, the employer is required to take steps to correct the situation, including providing medical and financial assistance to help the worker.

Workers' Compensation

Employers purchase workers compensation coverage, a form of insurance mandated by state governments, that helps them manage the medical care and compensation of injured workers. Workers compensation is a no-fault system in which injured workers waive their rights to sue the employer for negligence related to the work injury in exchange for medical care and wage replacement. It also provides financial compensation and other benefits to the dependents of workers killed as a result of a workplace injury.

Types of Workplace Injuries Covered by Workers' Compensation

Workers may be exposed to a variety of health and safety risks that are covered by workers compensation. They may be the result of accidents, repetitive motions and exposure to toxic substances. They can also include pre-existing conditions aggravated by conditions at work, as well as physical or mental stress-related problems. Injuries may occur during lunch and break times, at employer-sponsored activities or while driving in the course of completing work activities.

However, self-inflicted injuries -- those received while an employee is intoxicated -- while traveling to and from work, or running personal errands on break time, are not covered by worker's compensation.

RIght to Medical Care

Injured employees are entitled to medical care for the injury. In most states, an employer may require an injured worker to see a doctor provided under the workers compensation plan. However, some plans provide a list from which an injured worker can select a doctor.

Right to Compensation

Employees with work-related injuries are entitled to a portion of their regular wages if they are unable to work. In many states, this amount is two-thirds of regular pay. If an employee is permanently disabled as a result of an injury, workers compensation provides a settlement to compensate for lost future earnings, which may take the form of a lump sum or regular monthly payments.

Right to Hire an Attorney

Although worker's compensation programs are no-fault, injured workers still have the right to hire an attorney to help protect their rights. Workplace injuries are subject to many reporting requirements with strict filing deadlines and workers compensation attorneys help workers meet these deadlines. They also insure that the person receives the proper compensation and that medical bills are paid by the workers compensation insurance, not by the employee's personal health insurance.

There may be instances when an injured worker may sue for negligence. For example, a lawsuit may be appropriate if a sub-contractor was involved in the accident; equipment was defective or not properly maintained; or proper precautions were not taken by the employer to protect workers when using toxic substances.

Tags: workers compensation, injured worker, injured workers, medical care, their rights, They also, toxic substances

Workout Programs For Distance Runners On A Track

It is possible to design several workouts on a track for distance running.

Distance running requires stamina, health, and a good training regimen. Because long-distance running takes a significant amount of time, you'll need to plan ahead to use your available training time effectively. One good place to train for a distance running event is on a track, say at a local high school or college. The exact amount of known distance will help you plan your workouts. Vary your workout program to avoid plateaus in your training and to help avoid injury.

Tempo Run

A tempo run is a workout that seeks to improve the overall speed of the distance runner. Shorter than race length, a tempo run can train the body to run faster. Perform a tempo run by selecting a shorter distance on the track than the race you might be training for and aiming for a 10 percent faster pace than your race pace. Do a tempo run on the track at least once a week. Design a workout program to include a tempo run by planning to run three times a week. The first run is at your normal training speed; the second run is a tempo run; and the last run of the week is a long run. Be sure to reserve a day of rest or a non-running workout in between your running days.

Long Run

Because most high school tracks are slightly cushioned, the track is the perfect place to perform your long run. A long run is the longest training run of the week and it is the closest to the race distance you are training for. If your long run is going to take several hours, be sure to find out the schedule for the track and ensure that there are no events taking place within your training time. To incorporate a long run into workout program, aim to run three times a week. The first run should be normal distance and speed. Add ten percent distance to the second run of the week. Do your long run as the last run of the week. Include a day of rest or non-running exercise between each running day.

Fartlek Workout

A fartlek workout is a program from Sweden that focuses on working out a runner at nearly maximum effort. It is also known as high intensity interval training, or HIIT. On a track, the best way to accomplish a fartlek is to run short distance sprints with very short breaks in between, for at least forty-five minutes. For instance, you could run ten quarter-mile sprints with ten second rests in between. Performing a fartlek workout on a track will push the distance runner in both aerobic and anaerobic modes. To make a fartlek workout part of your program, sandwich your fartlek workout between your long run and and other training runs. Be sure to include at least one day of rest after your fartlek training, as the recovery time typically takes longer.

Tags: fartlek workout, workout program, your long, between your, distance runner

Women'S Health Questions After Birth

A pregnant woman

While pregnant women often worry about prepare for birth and get through pregnancy, few consider what happens to their bodies after the baby is born. Your body will go through almost as many changes after giving birth as it does preparing for it.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a clinical condition that deserves prompt attention. If you ever feel like hurting yourself or your baby after giving birth, get medical attention immediately. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help you, along with therapy.

It is common for new mothers to feel a bit sad or down after giving birth, but this doesn't automatically equate to postpartum depression--it's just a natural part of your hormones getting back in balance.

Breasts and Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding differs from birth to birth--some babies latch on immediately and the process is easy, while it may be difficult for others. Some women may not be able to breastfeed at all; if this is the case for you, do not feel guilty. Before you leave the hospital or birthing center, a nurse will instruct you on breastfeed your baby if you choose to do so.

Whether or not you breastfeed, in the days after giving birth your breasts likely will become swollen and engorged with milk. You may feel pressure and discomfort, and experience leaking. To alleviate the pain, put warm compresses on your breasts and wear a very comfortable, supportive bra. Put cotton pads in your bra so that any leaking doesn't show through your top.

Birth Control

Some women think that they cannot easily get pregnant after giving birth because their hormones are out of balance. This is not true. Unless you plan to get pregnant soon after giving birth, consider using birth control. This can be in the form of medications or natural methods, but unless you are proactive, there is a reasonable chance that you will get pregnant again before your new baby is a year old.

Exercise and Work

Heavy work and exercise, such as weightlifting, running and standing for more than six hours at a time, should be done no earlier than six weeks after giving birth. If you have a job where you are stationary, such as working at home, doing clerical work or typing, you can safely get back to work as soon as you feel like it. Light exercising, such as walking, yoga and stretching, can be done anytime after giving birth, as long as you are comfortable.

Sex

Medical providers recommend that you wait to resume having sex for six weeks after giving birth, but you really should wait until you feel ready. Because your hormones are getting back in balance, you simply may not feel like having sex. If you had a rough labor or a C-section, you should wait until your wounds are completely healed and you no longer feel soreness.

Talk to your partner about resuming sexual activity--he needs to understand that it is best to wait until you are physically and emotionally prepared, no matter how long that may take.

Tags: after giving, after giving birth, giving birth, feel like, wait until

Wittnauer Watch Identification

Identifying a Wittnauer watch is not difficult. A visual inspection of the dial and the movement--the spring-loaded mechanism that runs and regulates the timepiece-will quickly identify a Wittnauer watch. It's more difficult, however, to examine the movement on contemporary Wittnauer watches because they are not easy to open for inspection like vintage versions. Examining the inside of newer Wittnauers should be performed by an experienced watchmaker.

Background

Wittnauer has been producing watches since the 1880s, but its long association with the luxury watch company Longines has resulted in the production of some of the finest watches ever made. Longines-Wittnauer watches were manufactured between 1936 and 1994. Vintage Longines-Wittnauer watches are highly sought after by collectors but remain affordable. Longines parted company with Wittnauer in 1994. Wittnauer remained independent until 2001 when it was purchased by Bulova. In 2010, Wittnauer remained its own distinctive brand, according to Interwatches.com and Longines.com.

Identification

Wittnauer watches can be identified by using a jeweler's loupe or magnifying glass to examine the dial. Wittnauers always have the name printed or embossed on the dial under the 12. The Wittnauer name probably won't appear on the outside of the case back of vintage models. Most pre-1960s Wittnauers have no identification on the case back. By the mid 1960s, the name was engraved on the back.

Automatic Versus Wind-Up

The dial also will help the watch owner identify the Wittnauer as an automatic self-winding model or manual wind version. Wittnauer self-winding watches will have the word "automatic" printed above the 6 or under the Wittnauer name at the top of the dial. Manual winding watches will have no identification.

Contemporary Models

Most contemporary Wittnauer automatics have a see-through case back that display the movement. The edge of the case back will be marked "automatic" and the half-moon disc on the movement will identify it as an automatic. The "Wittnauer" name also will be engraved on the disc.

Opening the Case

Vintage Wittnauer case backs can be removed to identify the movement and the engravings inside the case back. Vintage models either have a snap-down or screw-down case back. Snap-down versions can be pried open with a watchmaker's case blade. The screw-down versions can be twisted counterclockwise with the palm of your hand and removed. The inside of the case back should have "Longines Wittnauer Watch Co." engraved on it.

The Movement

"Wittnauer" should be engraved on the movement. A serial number should appear on the movement. The serial number can be matched against the Longines-Wittnauer list. Obtaining the serial number list on post-1994 Wittnauers may be more difficult and may require contacting a retail Wittnauer watch dealer. It's not recommended that novice collectors open case backs on contemporary watches.

Tags: case back, serial number, Wittnauer name, also will, case backs, contemporary Wittnauer

Wisconsin Festivals Fairs Events And Craft Shows

Watching classical plays by Shakespeare is one of the many activities you can do in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin plays host to various festivals, fairs, events and crafts shows throughout the year. If you're planning a vacation in the Badger State, be sure to bring the whole family along. From musical and fruit festivals to winter celebrations and summer art shows, there's always something for everyone. Planning ahead and being informed about upcoming festivals, fairs, events and craft shows will enable you to make an itinerary that will suit parents and kids alike.

Summerfest

Watch the music industry's top stars in Summerfest, Milwaukee's largest music festival. Beginning in late June, it's 11 days and nights of pop, rock, country, blues and folk music. It not only attracts the big names of music, but also emerging artists and local talents. The venue is the Markus Amphitheater, with Lake Michigan as the backdrop for this musical event like no other.

Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival

Experience a little bit of Asia by watching dragon boats compete at the Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival. This event is an annual fundraising activity organized by the Superior Rotary Club, Duluth's Harbortown Rotary Club and the Superior Sunrise Centennial Rotary Club; the proceeds help charitable organizations. Held at Superior Bay, other activities aside from dragon boat racing include musical performances and fireworks.

American Players Theater

Enjoy outdoor plays at the American Players Theater (APT), located amidst the forest in Spring Green, Wisconsin. The APT takes pride in its outdoor amphitheaters, which play host to various classical plays. See its take on the works of literary masters such as Shakespeare, Tennessee Williams and John Steinbeck. The Spring Green area also offers outdoor activities such as canoeing, fishing and hiking.

Polar Dash

Spend winter with your family at Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison and join the Polar Dash. Let your kids race around a snow-covered racetrack with their very own stuffed polar bear on a sled. The Polar Dash is for kids 12 and under and is presented by Physicians Plus. This event promotes healthy living and encourages kids to be active and on the go. After the fun-filled race, the kids can go inside the Olbrich's tropical Bolz Conservatory for more activities.

Tags: Polar Dash, Rotary Club, activities Wisconsin, American Players, American Players Theater

Winter Events In Minnesota

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival offers an ice sculpture contest and ice village.

Minnesota offers outdoor adventurists plenty of hiking, biking, canoeing and kayaking, snowshoeing and skiing options. Various cities and resorts across Minnesota host winter events for visitors and locals to enjoy and celebrate the season. Events target all ages and a range of interests.

Saint Paul Winter Carnival

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival started in 1886 and runs yearly for 11 days in January and February. Events include ice carving competitions, a pow wow with local Native American tribes, a half marathon and the Torchlight Parade. A medallion is hidden in Saint Paul for each festival and clues are posted in the local newspaper. The person who finds it wins $10,000 and a place in the Torchlight Parade.

St. Paul Festival & Heritage Foundation

429 Landmark Center

75 West 5th St

Saint Paul, MN 55102

651-223-4700

winter-carnival.com

Winterer's Gathering & Arctic Film Festival

The Winterer's Gathering & Arctic Film Festival takes place in late November and honors the traditional ways of life in northern Minnesota. The event offers featured speakers, films, hands-on courses and traditional winter skill seminars.

Winterer's Gathering & Arctic Film Festival

North House Folk School

500 W Highway 61

Grand Marais, MN 55604

218-387-9762

northhouse.org

Two Harbors Winter Frolic

The Two Harbors Chamber of Commerce hosts the Two Harbors Winter Frolic each February to celebrate winter on the North Shore. Events and attractions include ski races, a pancake breakfast, a chili cook-off, a sliding hill and more.

Two Harbors Chamber of Commerce

1330 Highway 61

Two Harbors, MN 55616-2040

218-834-6200

800-777-7384

twoharborswinterfrolic.com

Holidazzle Parades

Minneapolis hosts the Target Holidazzle Parades each holiday season. The parades feature favorite storybook characters, musical groups, floats and over one million lights. The parades are free and run Thursday through Sunday at starting at 6:30 pm.

Holidazzle Parade

Nicollet Mall

Nicollet Ave, between Washington Ave and 13th St

Minneapolis, MN 55403

612-376-7669

holidazzle.com

Lutsen Mountains

Lutsen Mountains offers a variety of winter events beginning with the Thanksgiving Festival in November and ending with the Mountain Meltdown in April. Events include a New Years Eve celebration, the Snow Ball in January, the Family Olympic Festival in early February and the Mardi Gras Carnivale in mid-February.

Lutsen Mountains

P.O. Box 129

Lutsen, MN 55612

218-663-7281

lutsen.com

Tags: Saint Paul, Arctic Film, Arctic Film Festival, Film Festival, Gathering Arctic, Gathering Arctic Film

What Are The Causes Of Postpartum Depression

Post-partum depression is a form of depression that affects some women after they give birth to their children. The Royal College of Psychiatrists states that approximately one in every ten new mothers suffer varying lengths of this disorder. A number of causes are believed to contribute to post-partum depression.

Hormonal Shifts

The hormonal changes that result from delivery may cause post-partum depression. After giving birth, women experience a large drop in the levels of hormones estrogen and progesterone, and their thyroid levels may drop as well.

Physiological Changes

The changes in blood pressure, functioning of the immune system and metabolism that mothers experience after giving birth can also contribute to post-partum depression.

Lifestyle Changes

Post-partum depression can arise as a result of the mother's adjustment to her new role. The sleep deprivation and stress that can result from caring for a new baby can cause some women to develop post-partum depression.

Previous Histories of Depression

Women who have a previous history of depression are more likely to develop post-partum depression.

Stressful Events

Stressful events such as a difficult delivery, prenatal problems or a premature birth can also cause post-partum depression in some women.

Tags: post-partum depression, some women, birth also, cause post-partum, cause post-partum depression

Winter Attractions In Minnesota

The winter landscapes show off the natural beauty of Minnesota.

There are a variety of winter attractions in Minnesota. Diversions include dog sledding, skiing, ice skating, snowmobiling, snowboarding, ice fishing and more. Minnesota State Parks offer sightseeing and many activities, too. The winter landscapes show off the natural beauty of the state and visitors can view frozen waterfalls, snow-covered forests, game trails and other habitats. Additionally, Minnesota is home to special fairs and festivals that make a winter visit to Minnesota worthwhile.

Dog Sledding

Most dog sledding treks are in northwestern Minnesota.

Dog sledding is a popular new snow sport in Minnesota. Adventure trip organizations offer many forms of the sport. Trips vary from a sightseeing ride in a dog sled to learning to mush and handle a team. Visitors may also choose from trips that last several hours to several days and include camping or staying in lodges. There are about two dozen dog sled outfitters in Minnesota, with most dog sledding treks are in northwestern Minnesota. Ely, Minnesota is a popular dog sledding center.

Moose Track Adventure Resorts

593 Kawishiwi Trail

Ely, MN 55731

800-777-7091

moosetrackadventures.com

Minnesota Skiing

There are many skiing opportunities in Minnesota.

Minnesota is also a popular skiing destination for both downhill and cross-country skiing. Minnesota has 12 ski areas. Lutsen is Minnesota's largest ski area. It features more than 1,000 acres, 90 runs, a 900 foot vertical drop and a gondola. Lutsen is also the home of Olympic skier Cindy Nelson. The Afton Heights ski area offers 48 trails through the hills of the St. Croix River Valley. Located near the Mall of America, the Hylands area offers cross-country skiing. The U.S. ski teams train in the Buck Hills ski area. Other popular ski areas include Spirit Mountain and Mount Kato.

Lutsen Mountains

P.O. Box 129

Lutsen, MN 55612

218-663-7281

ski@lutsen.com

Minnesota Snowmobiling

Most snowmobile trails are maintained by volunteers.

Minnesota offers 20,000 miles of snowmobiling trails. Snowmobile clubs and other volunteers maintain most of Minnesota's trails. Many resort areas offer snowmobile rentals and lodging along the trails. Ely, Minnesota is a popular snowmobile hub. Many trails leave from the Ely area. Some popular trails include the Taconite Trail, which stretches between Ely and Grand Rapids, and the Tomahawk Trail, which leads east and connects to the popular North Shore Trail and the Yukon Trail. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers general and safety information, maps, brochures, and the licenses and permits required for snowmobiling in the state.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

500 Lafayette Rd.

St. Paul, MN 55155-4040

800-657-3929

info.dnr@state.mn.us

Minnesota Winter Festivals

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival boasts giant ice and snow sculptures.

Winter festivals abound in Minnesota. The yearly Saint Paul Winter Carnival occurs every January. The carnival features giant ice sculptures, snow sculptures, winter royalty coronations, parades, digging for buried treasure in the snow and more. Other Minnesota festivals include Icebox Days in International Falls, the Ely Winter Festival, the Winter Fest in Spicer and the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon in Duluth.

Tags: area offers, cross-country skiing, Department Natural, Department Natural Resources, landscapes show

Will I Lose My House If I File Bankruptcy

Will I Lose My House if I File Bankruptcy?

What is Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a means for people debtors who have a tremendous amount of debt to get out of debt either completely or to be relieved from some portion of it. A bankruptcy stays on the debtor's credit file for ten years.

Title 11 of the United States Code administers bankruptcy dealings. Bankruptcy is federal law business. Bankruptcy law is the essentially the same in every state with exceptions for exemptions. If the federal bankruptcy law is different from state law, the federal law prevails.

Types of Bankruptcy

There are a range of bankruptcy forms. The Chapter 7 bankruptcy is generally for individuals and married couples. Chapter 11 is typically for business owners. Chapter 12 is for family farmers with debt problems, and Chapter 13 is for individuals and married couples who desire to reorganize their debts. Therefore, depending on the debtor's need or the type of business owned, specific bankruptcy filings would apply.

Will I Lose My House if I File Bankruptcy?

Many debtors fear that they will lose their home if they file bankruptcy. However, if the home has no equity, which is calculated by taking today's value of the home and subtracting the costs of the sale, payoff balances and any liens, the trustee in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy will "abandon" the house to you. Abandoning the house to you means that you will be able to remain in your home and keep your house on condition that you can maintain payments on your mortgage. However, filing for a bankruptcy does not alleviate the property of any voluntary liens, like tax liens, deeds of trust or mortgages. The lender continues to preserve the right to foreclose on the property if the payments are not made as agreed. As long as the mortgage payments are made on time and as agreed, all is well because generally no lender wants to obtain any debtor's property. Lenders are in the business of giving loans, not obtaining property. They don't make their money that way. Lenders make money when the mortgage loan is paid on time and remain up to date. Foreclosure is a last option when a debtor fails to make payments.

What Does it Mean for Property to be Exempt?

Exemptions include statutory lists of the types and values of property that is lawfully outside the reach of the bankruptcy trustee or creditors. In every bankruptcy, the debtor is allowed to select property from the statutory lists of exemptions that are provided under his state law, and the debtor keeps the selected property. Therefore, the exempt property chosen is detached from the bankruptcy estate and is not accessible for use to pay any claims of creditors. The bankruptcy code allows debtors to get a fresh start after filing bankruptcy and at the same time keep exempt property selected to help her in her fresh start. The properties that are allowed as exemptions are decided by state and federal statutes, and they differ within states.

First Things First

One of the first things to do before deciding to file bankruptcy, when you're concerned about losing your home through filing via Chapter 7, is to determine whether there is sufficient equity in the home. The debtor does this by deciding whether the exemption available to him is equal to or exceeds the amount of equity in the property. If the exemptions available are found to be equal to or exceed the equity in the property, then the present equity in the property is exempt and the debtor gets to keep his home. This is providing he or she can afford to continue to pay the mortgage payment.

On the other hand, if the exemption is not adequate to protect the equity, or in other words, the present equity exceeds the exemption amount allowed, then the debtor should probably consider a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. In Chapter 13, the debtor is choosing a reorganization debt repayment plan and the house is included in the debt reorganization. This method also allows the debtor to keep her home even though she will not be able to completely liquidate all other debts. Now, once again, it is imperative for the debtor to make sure she can afford to pay the mortgage payments as well as the new agreement amount in the repayment plan. Otherwise, it's all a waste of time and effort. During these times, it is very important to be honest with one's self so as to avoid ending up in the same overwhelming state again.

Tags: Chapter bankruptcy, equity property, House File, House File Bankruptcy, Lose House, Lose House File, Will Lose House

Will Flat Feet Keep You Out Of The Military

If no arch appears when you stand on your toes, you may have flat feet.

The medical condition known as flat feet, or in medical terms "pes planus" -- also called fallen arches -- has in the past meant an automatic disqualification from military service. While still listed as a disqualifying factor, waivers can be given.

Medical Information

According to articles cited in the University of Maryland Medical Center's online Medical Encyclopedia, pes planus means, simply put, that the arch of the foot "collapses and comes in contact with the ground." The ankle bones may also pronate, or rotate inward from a vertical line. The condition may be congenital or acquired in adulthood.

Current Policies

The Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB) certifies individuals for admission to the service academies, ROTC programs, and direct commission programs. Pes planus is listed as an automatic disqualifying condition. U.S. Army Regulation 40-501 "Standards of Medical Fitness" also lists pes planus as a condition not meeting standards for acceptance. Military.com discusses medical disqualifications and the waiver application process.

Waivers

Although waivers can be given, a 2003 study by the U. S. Department of Defense's Accession Medical Standards Analysis & Research Activity System (AMSARA) showed a somewhat higher rate of early medical discharge for individuals with the condition. However, the difference was not statistically significant and the AMSARA report adds, "These findings alone do not provide evidence to change either the current accession standards or waiver criteria for pes planus."

Tags: Department Defense, feet medical, flat feet medical, waivers given

Why Would A Company Not Declare Or Pay Any Dividends

Dividends are income for the investor, but not all companies pay out this way to shareholders

Many investors look at dividends as an important part of an overall investment strategy, and they absolutely should. Stocks that pay dividends put income into the investor's pocket, and many established companies raise the dividend each year. Some companies, however, do not pay dividends, and what follows are some common reasons why:

Not Profitable

Dividends, by definition, are paid out of the profits of the company. If a company is just breaking even or losing money, paying dividends might put it at risk of failing.

Cash-Flow Restrictions

Even if a company is generating a big profit, it may lack cash to pay dividends. A lot of the cash the company has may be reserves for big capital expenditures, paying down debt, or a big lawsuit settlement. Some companies borrow funds to pay dividends, but that is not a sustainable practice.

Contractual or Regulatory Reasons

Some companies are forced to cease dividend payments due to lender or even government entanglements. Banks, for example, cannot pay dividends if they are losing money. A big lender may not loan a company money unless dividend payments are reduced or eliminated, as the lender wants to be sure the company can first pay back the loan. Under the Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP, for instance, such restrictions on dividend payments were imposed on banks that borrowed from the government.

Preference to Retain Earnings for Growth

When the company pays dividends to shareholders, there is less in the company's coffers to grow the business. If management feels it can better use the cash to invest in new business opportunities to grow the company, it will be hesitant to pay out profits to shareholders.

Tax Reasons

Dividends are taxable income events for the investors. Companies that pay dividends have already paid taxes on the income at a corporate level, and once the dividends are paid out to shareholders, the government takes another cut. This is particularly a concern in companies where dividends have never been paid and there would be a significant tax liability for larger shareholders.

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Why Should Women Wear Cotton Panties

Why women should wear cotton underwear.

Many vaginal infections that include symptoms of itching, odor, and discharge may decrease just by wearing cotton underwear. Cotton helps to keep the vagina free of excessive moisture, and allows the area to "breathe". Many women turn to different materials due to their clothing design or cut, but cotton underwear now comes in many shapes and sizes. The benefit of cotton underwear makes it a comfortable and healthy choice for the many women who wear them.

Infection Prevention

Yeast infections are common in many women, and can be quite a discomfort. While many people get these without explanation, it sometimes has to do with the type of clothing they wear. Restricted clothing made of latex or polyester promotes the growth of yeast within the vagina, and in doing so, creates a yeast infection. Warmth and moisture also contributes to the overgrowth of yeast within the vagina. Wearing cotton underwear helps your vagina to ventilate and eliminate yeast production. Underwear made of synthetic materials can trap moisture and warmth, allowing the perfect place for yeast to thrive.

Alleviates Itching

Vaginal itching is another uncomfortable sign of wearing underwear that is not cotton. The itching sensation can be the start of a yeast infection or disturbance in the natural pH balance. While other factors may lead to vaginal itching, wearing cotton underwear will eliminate most cases. Try to eliminate pants, skirts, or shorts, which are not made of cotton for the best prevention. If pantyhose will be warm over underwear, it is best to find a pair with a cotton crotch as well.

Stops Odor

Ventilating the vagina can also prevent the buildup of moisture and odor causing bacteria. Cotton absorbs excess moisture and removes build up heat from the area. Cotton is one of the only materials that become stronger when wet and is easily sterilized after use. It is especially important to wear cotton underwear throughout the summer or during times of high humidity. This is the best time for yeast infections, itching, and odor to occur. Avoid underwear at night entirely if cotton is not available. Using cotton underwear or eliminating underwear will keep the area dry throughout the night.

Hypoallergenic Material

Cotton is naturally a hypoallergenic material, which helps to alleviate irritation. You must take extra caution when laundering your clothing to ensure laundering irritation at a minimal. Launder your cotton underwear with scent and dye free detergents. Using fabric softeners or conditioners can also irritate the skin. If you are sensitive to dyes, purchase and wear only white cotton underwear to prevent irritation and itching from the color. Be sure to wash the underwear before wearing them the first time.

Versatility

Women also prefer cotton because it is versatility in design and appearance. If sensitivity is not an issue, cotton underwear comes in colors and designs. No longer does cotton underwear only come in white, but a mixture of colors and patterns. It also comes in many physical forms, including brief, bikini, thong or regular cut. Regardless of the outfit you will be wearing, there is a pair of cotton underwear specifically made for you.

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Why Should People Use Heart Rate Monitors

Wearing a chest strap heart rate monitor.

Heart rate monitors can gauge how hard your heart is working during exercise. People should use heart rate monitors for the following reasons: athletic training, weight loss and exercise safety.

Types

There are three different types of heart rate monitors; chest straps, wristbands and upper armbands. Each of these types of heart rate monitors is worn near a pulse point to detect the heart beat.

Features

Some heart rate monitors will only keep track of and report how many beats per minute your heart is working or give a percentage that tells how close your heart is working to its maximum. Other monitors will tell you how many calories you have burned during an exercise session. Some monitors will allow you to log in your hours of exercise and all of the food you have eaten and calculate your caloric deficit for the day to help you lose weight.

Function

It is important to understand what the numbers mean to utilize your heart rate monitor. The simplified formula to calculate your maximum heart rate is 220-minus your age, but most heart rate monitors will ask other questions about your fitness level to make the number more personal. For example if you are 40 years old, your maximum heart rate would be 180 using the simplified formula. While working out, the monitor will tell you (in percent form) how close you are to your maximum heart rate.

Training

Heart rate monitors can help you train.

Athletes use heart rate monitors to monitor their training progress and to race at the fastest pace possible for themselves. For example, a runner will probably train at 75 percent of his maximum heart rate. He may run at 90 percent for a race pace training run and 95 to 100 perdent in his speed training runs. During a race, an athlete can look at his heart monitor and see if he is working at 92 to 97 percent of his maximum heart rate.

Benefits

A heart rate monitor can help you to stay within a safe target of your maximum heart capacity during your workouts. You can slow down and lower your heart rate if you need to. The monitor will also tell you if you are able to work harder because you are not near the percent of heart rate needed, then you can push your self a bit and raise your heart rate.

Tags: heart rate, heart rate, rate monitors, maximum heart, your heart, maximum heart rate

Why Quit Smoking Before Surgery

Many people understand the dangers smoking has on a person's overall health, increasing his risk for heart and lung disease and early death. Smoking also affects a person's surgical results. Therefore, there are various reasons to quit smoking before surgery. An article published by the Eisenhower Medical Center states that, to achieve maximum benefits, people should quit several weeks before their surgical procedure.

Lung Complications

People who quit smoking before surgery experience fewer lung complications when undergoing anesthesia, according to the Eisenhower Medical Center. Patients are able to effectively clear their lungs after surgical procedures.

Heart Complications

The International Anesthesia Research Society cites research that says people who quit smoking before surgery decrease their risk of experiencing heart complications before or during surgery.

Healing Process

The American Society of Anesthesiologists says that people who quit smoking before surgery have easier recovery periods, and quitting decreases the chances of wound infections.

Red Blood Cells

The Anemia Institute for Research & Education says that smoking reduces the number of red blood cells, so smoking cessation before surgery helps increase red blood cell count.

Cigarette Withdrawal

The American Society of Anesthesiologists states people who quit smoking before surgery experience less nicotine withdrawal symptoms after undergoing their procedure. This occurs because many of the drugs and therapies used during and after surgery suppress the desire for nicotine.

Tags: before surgery, smoking before, smoking before surgery, quit smoking, quit smoking before, American Society, American Society Anesthesiologists

Why New Sod Turns Yellow

You just laid down an entire yard full of sod to improve your home's appearance, but within days you notice it has begun to turn a lovely shade of yellow. New sod can turn yellow for a host of different reasons, and most of them are fixable, if you catch them in time. It will just take a little investigating to discover the source.

Scorched During Delivery

Sod is delivered all neatly stacked on a truck. These squares of sod generate heat from the sun as they travel to your destination and as they sit on the truck waiting to be set into place. If the sod sat all piled together for an extended period of time it probably got too hot, thus causing the delicate grass to dry out and burn.

Make sure to keep the sod extremely moist for several days. This may mean watering it several times a day. Lift a corner up to insure the soil beneath the grass is wet. Do not walk on the yellow sod any more than necessary. Give it a chance to rehydrate.

Failure to Properly Water

The new sod will turn yellow if you fail to stick to a regular watering schedule. Yellow grass is the first sign that it is dying from lack of proper nutrition. Proper watering helps keep the soil beneath the sod moist so that it can settle and root in, thus to begin feeding off the nutrients and fertilizers in the ground.

New sod should be well watered several times a day for the first few weeks. The exact amount or times will depend on your region. If you live in an exceptionally hot, dry area, the sod will need more water there than in a frequently rainy area. Check with the landscapers or nursery that installed the sod. Staff will advise you of a proper watering schedule for your area.

Bug Infestation

While you are examining your sod, look closely for some nasty little bugs called aphids. This is the worst reason your sod may turn yellow. The bug can be yellow, white, green or brown, but they are nearly transparent. Another insect infestation might be spider mites.

Either of these can take up residence and suck the very life out of your new sod. It may have already been infested when it was delivered, or your trees and shrubbery may already have been contaminated. These insects feed off the live blades of grass or plants nearby.

If your sod is infested with bugs, the best advice is to contact the distributor that brought the sod to you. Pesticides will get rid of them, if you are not adverse to using chemicals. It is also possible to get rid of just a few of these bugs with a good spraying of water. Then, you run the risk of drowning the new sod to eliminate the bugs.

If you fear a bug infestation, the wisest solution is to seek professional help, especially when the sod is brand new. Perhaps the contractor will replace it or treat it free of charge.

Tags: turn yellow, several times, soil beneath, watering schedule

Why Is My Lawn Turning Yellow

A lush carpet of grass enhances curb appeal.

A yellowing lawn not only reduces aesthetic appeal of the landscape but indicates a health problem requiring immediate action. Care for yellow grass with good cultural practices to control the problem and restore lush green color and vigor. Lawns also turn yellow during dormant phases, allowing them to rest naturally until they turn green again. Does this Spark an idea?

Pests

Pests severely damage grass blades and roots, causing the lawn to appeal dull, faded and yellow. Leaf hoppers and chinch bugs sap essential juices from grass blades, causing wilt and yellowing; grubs, scale and nematodes chew on grass roots. Although specific treatment varies according to the type of pest and scale of infestation, control is achieved through insecticide application followed by deep irrigation to help release chemicals into the soil. If the infestation is severe and the damage is beyond repair, pull grass plants out of the soil and re-seed bare patches.

Disease

Disease-infested lawns take on a yellow appearance and are usually corrected with proper care. Dollar spot, Rhizoctonia yellow patch, summer patch and fusarium patch are fungal diseases that give infected parts of the lawn a straw coloring. Because fungal spores of the diseases infest stressed grass, follow a regular fertilizing, watering and mowing schedule to reduce stress. Treat diseased parts with a registered fungicide applied at regular intervals so the grass regains its health and color.

Cultural Practices

Improper cultural practices increase stress on lawn grass, making it susceptible to pest damage or disease. Water, mow and fertilize your grass according to requirements for each type. Ideally, water your grass infrequently but deeply, providing 1 1/2 inches of water weekly, using a trickle irrigation system. Don't water the grass again until it shows signs of wilting, which include footprints or mower tracks up to a half hour after the traffic passed. Although grass height varies according to the type and season, keep your lawn grass 2 to 3 inches tall. Increase the height slightly during the summer to keep the roots cool, and avoid trimming more than a third of the blade length in one mowing session. Lack of nitrogen or improper fertilization produces a dull, yellow appearance. Give your lawn 1 to 1 1/2 lbs. of nitrogen-rich fertilizer per 1,000 square feet.

Considerations

Grass that grows next to walkways, driveways, sidewalks and other things made from concrete usually appears yellow, indicating an iron deficiency. This is because the high-alkaline content in concrete absorbs the iron in the soil, depleting reserves for grass. Feed the grass iron supplements to retain its natural color. Physical damage to grass in the form of excessive foot traffic, dog urine, gasoline spills and overapplication of pesticides causes yellowing grass.

Tags: according type, damage grass, grass blades, lawn grass, varies according

Why Is My Grass Turning Yellow

Yellowing grass is disheartening and a cause for concern, especially when you invest precious time, money and energy on its establishment and maintenance. Several factors are responsible for causing the lawn or sections of it to turn yellow and appear burnt. Identifying the underlying cause helps treat the problem appropriately and keep it from recurring. Does this Spark an idea?

Insects

Yellow grass sometimes occurs as a result of severe insect infestation. Insect pests such as scale and grubs feed on grass roots, while chinch bugs, mites and leafhoppers suck sap from grass blades, causing the grass to wilt and turn yellow. Although specific treatment varies according to the type of grass and the insect responsible for damage, general control is achieved through insecticide application followed by heavy irrigation so the chemicals penetrate the soil to reach grass roots. In case of extreme infestation, a gardener has no choice but to remove the existing damaged grass and replace it with new grass.

Disease

Various diseases cause grasses to fade and turn yellow. Fungal diseases such as summer patch and Rhizoctonia yellow patch damage grass and cause them to take on a yellow appearance. Dollar spot and fusarium patch are other diseases responsible for yellowing grasses. Rust also causes grass to turn yellow, pale orange or light brown. Following a proper irrigation and fertilization schedule avoids stress on the grass and reduces the chance of diseases. Apply a registered fungicide formulated to combat the particular disease to prevent it from spreading further on the lawn and help the grass regain its color and vigor.

Improper Cultural Practices

Improper cultural practices are also responsible for yellowing grass. Although ideal mowing heights vary with grass types, most grasses thrive at a height of 2 to 3 inches. However, let the grass grow slightly higher during the summer or periods of drought. Avoid mowing more than one-third of the grass height in one session. While irregular mowing makes the grass susceptible to damage by pests and disease, mowing too frequently also puts undue stress on the grass, making it vulnerable to damage. Water the grass deeply but infrequently, giving it 1 to 1 1/2 inches of water every time. Water when it shows signs of wilt, which include mower marks or footprints that remain in grass one-half hour after the traffic passed. Lack of nitrogen fertilizer also causes grass to turn yellow. Feed the grass 1 lb. of nitrogen fertilizer per 1,000-square-foot area.

Dormancy

Lawn grass naturally turns yellow during its dormant period, which varies according to grass type. For best results, choose grass that grows best in your area. Avoid planting warm-season grasses in cold areas since they grow dormant in fall and remain yellow until spring. Similarly, avoid planting cool-season grasses in warm areas.

Tags: turn yellow, also causes, also causes grass, causes grass, causes grass turn

Why Is My Computer Running So Slow

When a computer comes fresh from the manufacturer, it is fast, efficient and a breeze to use. However, as you continue to use your machine, the computer will begin to slow and eventually the blazing fast cheetah you first brought home has been reduced to a lumbering sloth.

Defragmentation

Be sure to defragment your computer. As you add more and more data to your hard drive, your computer (specifically, your operating system) will have a harder time locating everything. A system defragment basically sorts and compresses all that scattered info so the OS can find it.

Delete Old Files

Sometimes computers will run slowly because the machine simply has too much information crammed into it. Deleting old image files or uninstalling old programs you no longer use will go a long way towards speeding up your machine.

Run an Antivirus

Viruses, especially Trojans, can zap away a computer's processing speed. Running an anti-virus program to find and remove these infections will improve speeds.

Registry Cleaning

Your Windows Registry keeps track of just about everything you've ever done on your machine. Wiping this clean from time to time will allow certain programs to run faster and take up less CPU.

Clean the Hardware

Dusty cooling fans and motherboards can decrease computer performance due to overheating. Clean the inside of your machine every couple of months to ensure that it continues to run smoothly for years to come.

Tags: your machine, your computer

Why Is It Dangerous To Increase Home Oxygen Flow Rate Above The Doctor'S Prescription

Oxygen therapy is a technique designed to deliver medically therapeutic amounts of oxygen to individuals with various breathing impairments. Doctors prescribe oxygen flow rates that match the needs of each patient.

The Facts

According to the American Thoracic Society, doctors determine the need for supplemental oxygen by measuring the oxygen, carbon dioxide and pH level of a blood sample. This analysis is called an arterial blood gas (ABG) test.

Prescription Treatment

Doctors prescribe home oxygen flow rates in the same manner they prescribe conventional medications. Patients should not increase or lower these rates without a doctor's consent.

Increasing Oxygen Flow

Increasing the flow of oxygen above the prescribed level can trigger a potentially dangerous decrease in a patient's breathing rate.

Tracking Oxygen Levels

Doctors track the ongoing need for oxygen with a pulse oximeter, which reads oxygen levels by evaluating the color of light passed through a patient's finger. They may adjust the prescribed oxygen flow as needed.

Considerations

Lowering the flow of home oxygen below the prescribed level may deplete the oxygen in heart and brain tissue, leading to changes in heart function or memory loss.

Tags: oxygen flow, Doctors prescribe, flow rates, home oxygen, oxygen flow rates, prescribed level

Why Is Fast Running Water Better To Drink

Drinking water each day is highly recommended for health since water is our body's means of flushing out toxins, and therefore a key to disease prevention. Water is also responsible for our energy level since it is used by the liver to metabolize fat into energy. In the U.S., running water from the tap is generally the freshest and best to drink on a regular basis.

Quality

Having running water in each home is a result of excellent public water systems that cleanse the water so that we can use it from the tap for drinking and cooking. Tap water may contain various natural but relatively harmless contaminants like magnesium and iron, and gases like hydrogen sulfide and calcium carbonate, which are found in hard water. Geological conditions affecting groundwater near reservoirs determine how much and which of these substances is in tap water.

Making Water Safe

Municipal systems in most towns and cities provide clean, safe tap water to our homes. Their practices for gathering and storing water are carefully regulated at both state and federal government levels. Standards for clean water are set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Water supplies come from rain, groundwater and springs as well as rivers and lakes. The water must be purified to guard against harmful bacteria and environmental pollutants. Drinking water has been purified through chlorination in most of the U.S. for over 100 years. A final step is filtering to remove leftover suspended particles. A common type of filter is sand with a layer of activated carbon or anthracite coal above the sand. The top layer removes organic compounds, which contribute to taste and odor. Then the water is stored and distributed through a clean system of tanks and pipes. Strict standards for water treatment plants and distribution systems are enforced by the EPA as well as local agencies. This includes setting specific limits on disinfection byproducts, like those from chlorination.

Drinking Water Sources

Increasingly, environmentalists are recommending the drinking of tap water over the many varieties of bottled water sold in the U.S. Many of those brands use local municipal water--the same water coming from your faucet at home. An extensive study of bottled water in 1999 by the Natural Resources Defense Council in San Francisco, concluded that there is less regulation of bottled water than for tap water. If you feel the running water from your tap does not taste good, there are filters like those made by Brita that remove the trace metals and improve the flavor.

Outdoors--Fast-Moving Versus Slow-Moving Water

Campers debate whether or not slow or fast-moving bodies of water are best for use before purification and/or boiling. Certainly stagnant water is to be avoided.

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Why Implement A Diversity Program

Why Implement a Diversity Program?

Diversity programs are a popular trend amongst modern businesses. Diversity includes the entire spectrum of primary dimensions of an individual, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, disability and sexual orientation. Inclusion seminars, sensitivity training and ethics programs are features of human resources departments nationwide to prepare employees to interact effectively. This widespread trend has it roots in a variety of social and business factors.

History

Following the Civil Rights Movement, Civil Rights Act and Equal Opportunity Act of 1972, the United States government implemented the initiative of Affirmative Action. Affirmative Action is a policy designed to counter past discrimination against women and minority groups through measures to improve their economic and educational opportunities. This mode of thought sparked the first notions that including underrepresented groups in the workplace was a necessity.

Economic Factors

Economic factors such as globalization have created a larger incentive for companies to approach a policy of diversity and inclusion. Globalization describes an ongoing process by which regional economies, societies and cultures have become integrated through an international network of communication and trade. Many large companies do business outside of the U.S. with individuals of other nationalities, religions and races. Companies recognize that the strength of having a team of decision makers within their companies that represent a variety of world views and experiences leads to business decisions that reflect the same cultural values of the potential clients they seek in other nations.

Marketing

Companies with all one race, gender and age of decision-makers are often stereotyped as being prejudice. With America's controversial history of race relations, companies that can demonstrate that they employ individuals from all backgrounds appear to be more socially responsible and disassociate themselves with the stigma of America's uncomfortable racial history. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce Diversity Task Force, in order for government and businesses to continue to be effective and motivate citizens to contribute to building these institutions, leaders should recognize and capitalize upon the diversity of the nation.

Misconceptions

Many assume that diversity programs are based on principles of affirmative action and reverse discrimination. Reverse discrimination is the theory that members of the majority demographic are restricted of certain liberties in order to provide opportunities to minorities. These contesters to diversity programs assert that professional merit alone should determine who is hired within a company. Supporters of diversity programs explain that diversity includes everyone by definition, not just particular groups and that talent comes from all backgrounds.

Effects

In a recent study on the effects of diversity programs, the Diversity Task Force learned that programs "that promote and achieve a diverse workplace attract and retain quality employees and increase customer loyalty. For public organizations, it also translates into effective delivery of essential services to communities with diverse needs." John Pepper, CEO of Procter & Gamble, issued the following statement on his Fortune 500 company's diversity program: "Our success as a global company is a direct result of our diverse and talented workforce. Our ability to develop new consumer insights and ideas and to execute in a superior way across the world is the best possible testimony to the power of diversity."

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Why Grass Turns Yellow & Dies

Inadequate care and maintenance results in patchy, unhealthy grass.

Keeping your grass healthy with frequent mowing, watering, weed control and fertilizing results in a lush, green lawn. Even with your best efforts, however, grass sometimes succumbs to illnesses or other conditions, causing it to turn yellow and die. Accurately identifying the problem ensures proper treatment and gives clues on avoid repeated problems with the same issue in the future. Does this Spark an idea?

Diseases

Some diseases, such as Rhizoctonia yellow patch, occur in wet, cool conditions. Others, such as summer patch, appear during hot weather. Both are fungal diseases. Other fungal diseases that cause yellowing and dying grass include dollar spot and Fusarium patch. Rust sometimes causes these symptoms as well, with grass appearing yellow, orange or brown. Providing adequate maintenance to avoid stressing your particular grass species and applying fungicides as needed prevent or control these diseases.

Insects

Yellowing grass occurs as a result of insect infestations, particularly by insects that feed on roots or suck plant sap from grass blades. Grubs and pearl scales are two examples of pests that feed on roots, while sap-sucking insects include mites, leafhoppers and chinch bugs. Proper treatment varies depending on your grass species and the particular insect, but generally includes insecticide treatment followed with watering to help chemicals reach all parts of the grass, including the roots. Some insects, such as ground pearls, do not respond well to treatment. Replacing the lawn with new sod works best in these situations.

Dormancy

Grass naturally goes dormant at some point in the season, depending on species and location. Choose a grass that grows well in your area for best results. Avoid using most warm-season grasses in Northern locations, as they will go dormant earlier in the fall and remain so longer in the spring. The same holds true for cool-season grasses planted in warm locations. Without intensive maintenance and watering, these grasses will go dormant during the hot summer months, leaving you with a yellow, dead-looking lawn.

Considerations

Keep your lawn well-maintained to prevent diseases and insect infestations. Adequate watering, nutrient-rich well-draining soil and proper mowing height all contribute to a dense, lush lawn. Consider taking a sample of your lawn or any insects found to your county extension office for help if you experience difficulty identifying the cause of your yellowing, dying grass.

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Why Drink Warm Water In The Morning

Take five to six minutes only to drink each glass of water.

Getting out of bed and drinking a glass of warm water will soon be a welcome habit. This simple practice will help you start your day feeling good and with lots of energy.

Expert Insight

Edgar Cayce (1877-1945), called the "father of holistic medicine" by the Journal of the American Medical Association, recommended drinking warm water first thing in the morning to flush out the body and rid it of toxins.

Benefits

Dr. Raymond Moore and Dorothy Moore, child specialists and authors, recommend that you drink warm water first thing in the morning to flush out your kidneys, prepare your body for food and move your bowels.

Weight Loss

According the Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., nutritionist and author, "To jump-start weight loss, drink the juice of half a lemon in 10 ounces of warm water every morning."

In Ayurvedic medicine, add a tsp. of honey to your warm water for weight loss. The honey mobilizes the extra fat in the body so it can be used for energy.

Dosage

After drinking your first glass of warm water in the morning, continue drinking water throughout the day. Drink half your weight in ounces of water spread out over the day.

Tips

Wait 30 minutes before eating after drinking warm water, as your body flushes.

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Why Do You Need To Drink Water Regularly

Water is vital for our bodily functions to work properly. Lack of water has been shown to cause headaches, heartburn and arthritis. There are many benefits to drinking water, among them the ability to control your appetite by making you feel full.

Water

The Body Needs Water

Our bodies need water to survive in a healthy way. Water plays a role in every bodily function. Dehydration will occur when the body is not getting the proper amount of water, causing dry mouth, nausea and other discomfort.

Regulates Body Temperature

When your body temperature rises, water and electrolytes in your body combine to produce perspiration in order to cool down. When losing fluids due to sweating, it is important to take in water in order to keep the body's temperature regulated.

Digestion Aid

You can aid the digestion process by drinking water during and after meals. The water, along with other liquids, helps break down food in the stomach in order to keep the digestive system working smoothly.

Maintains Metabolism and Appetite

When you are mildly dehydrated consistently, your metabolism can decrease by up to 3%. Drinking water helps maintain a steady rate of metabolism. You can also mildly suppress your appetite by drinking 3 cups of water 30 minutes before you eat.

Interesting Facts

Even with the recommended eight glasses of water a day, the water does not have to be in liquid form. Almost every kind of food or drink provides at least a little water to the body.

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Why Do People Take Performanceenhancing Drugs

There are many different types of performance-enhancing drugs, including synthetic erythropoeitin (EPO), anabolic steroids and drugs used in blood doping. Although performance-enhancing drugs are commonly associated with athletes, they are often used in non-athletic situations for a variety of reasons.

Steroids & Growth Hormones

Anabolic steroids and human growth hormones contain the male sexual hormone testosterone, which aids in skeletal muscle growth and reduces fatigue. Athletes using human growth hormones often find the effect of sleeping at high altitude is simulated by the drug.

Reduced Fatigue

Performance-enhancing drugs such as anabolic steroids are believed to reduce rest times between training sessions and competitions. The extra training completed with less recovery time allows the athlete to gain extra strength and endurance.

Athletes

The majority of performance-enhancing drug users are usually body builders and athletes looking to gain a competitive advantage and improved physical performance.

Professional Use

Performance-enhancing drugs are often used in occupations other than professional sports. Professions requiring physical strength include law enforcement officers, body guards and construction workers.

Non-Athletic Use

Performance-enhancing drugs also have used for purely cosmetic reasons, such as increasing muscle size and reducing body fat.

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Why Do People Get Light Headed

When you feel lightheaded, you feel like you could faint at any time. Your brain is not getting the required amount of blood. Deciphering what could be causing you to feel lightheaded can help you fix the problem and prevent the feeling from occurring in the future.

Decrease in Blood Pressure

A very common reason for feeling lightheaded is a quick decrease in your blood pressure. Medications might be the culprit. See the references for a more in-depth look at what causes blood pressure to drop.

Dehydration

Feeling lightheaded can occur if you are dehydrated. It can also occur if you have consumed too much alcohol or coffee or if you have exercised too strenuously in hot temperatures. Be sure to consume lots of water to keep your body well hydrated.

Allergies/Cold

Having a common cold or suffering from allergies can cause you to feel lightheaded. Taking the proper medication for your allergies or for your cold should take care of the lightheaded feeling.

Arrhythmia

Arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm and while not very common, can in fact cause you to feel lightheaded. You can check your own heart rate to determine any abnormality of its rhythm or you can visit your local doctor.

Vertigo

Vertigo can cause you to feel lightheaded and happens when there is a problem with the brain receiving the body's balancing and positioning signals. The more common causes of vertigo include migraines, drop in blood flow in the arteries, and ear injuries, among others.

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Why Do People Get Leg Cramps

Leg cramps, or spasms, are caused by an electrolyte and mineral imbalance in the bloodstream. Cramps are not to be confused with muscle twitches, which are also involuntary muscle contractions but do not cause any pain. Leg cramps can be triggered by many activities and conditions, and they can be a serious medical condition if they become chronic.

Dehydration

Muscle cramps can be caused by dehydration. Drinking adequate amounts of water keeps the minerals and electrolytes in the bloodstream balanced, helping to prevent your muscles, especially the large leg muscles, from getting cramps.

Medications

There are many different medications that are known to cause muscle cramps. Diuretics, for example, are pills that help purge your bloodstream of sodium. However, in so doing they cause the potassium levels to drop, which can cause an imbalance of the mineral and electrolyte levels in the bloodstream. Check with your doctor if you started getting muscle cramps after using a particular medication.

Excessive Exercise

Exercising too much, especially in endurance sports, uses up a lot of minerals and electrolytes in your bloodstream, raising the risk of a leg cramp.

Inactivity

When your muscles are idle for a long time, they are more prone to cramps because of the decreased blood flow to the area of the body that is not working. For instance, this can occur in the legs when you are sitting in front of a computer for too long.

Calcium

While you are working out, calcium channels leak and disturb the body's electrolyte and mineral balance, causing the muscles to involuntarily contract; this results in mild spasms.

Diseases and Conditions

Many diseases and conditions also cause leg cramps. Anemia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, kidney disease, alcoholism, thyroid disease, and even pregnancy side effects can prompt muscle spasms, as they can cause conflicts in the mineral and electrolyte levels in the bloodstream.

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Why Do My Toes Feel Numb

Why Do My Toes Feel Numb?

Circulation

Numbness in the toes can occur due to poor circulation in the feet. If you can pinpoint whether your toes are constantly numb, or they are only numb after wearing particular shoes or walking long distances, you can determine whether your footwear is too tight, or if the circulation in your toes is being cut off due to the way you walk. Poor circulation can also be caused by medical disorders such as diabetes, which can lead to numbness in the toes. To prevent numbness in the toes, try flexing your toes and holding this position for 10 seconds, then pointing your toes and staying in this position for 10 seconds.

Injury

Toe numbness can occur due to a sprain or break in the toe. If you are having trouble moving your toe, or your toe becomes excessively bruised, you have most likely broken your toe. Although some people do not get medical attention when they break a toe and simply tape it up themselves, it is important to get your toe examined by a doctor if it is broken. If your toe feels numb with some pain, but you are still able to walk on it, you have most likely sprained your toe. Treat the injury with ice for 15 minutes every hour, and avoid walking on the injured foot. See a doctor if symptoms persist for longer than a week.

Cold Weather

Cold weather can cause toes to feel numb due to blood vessels restricting in the toes. The extremities may feel more numb than the torso or legs because there are fewer blood vessels in the fingers and toes and they can all constrict quickly because they are farthest away from the heart. Numbness in the toes due to cold weather can be severe if frostbite occurs. To prevent frostbite, wear thick socks and waterproof boots when going outside in the snow and in below-freezing temperatures.

When to See a Doctor

There are a variety of other reasons why your toes may feel numb, including multiple sclerosis, Raynaud's disease, leprosy, sciatic nerve pain and vasculitis. If you are suffering from nerve damage or any disease that causes nerve damage, contact your doctor immediately. Otherwise, if you are suffering from no serious ailments, have not been exposed to extreme cold, and you can still walk on your foot, wait one week to see if the numbness still occurs. If after one week, you are still experiencing numbness in your toes, call your foot doctor or general practitioner.

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