Vicente Fox
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Early years
Vicente Ignacio Fox was born in Guanajuato on July 2, 1942, the second of nine children. His father was Jos Luis Fox Pont, a Mexican citizen and his mother Mercedes Quesada Etxaide, was Basque from San Sebastian, Guipzcoa, Spain. Fox’s paternal grandfather was born as Joseph Louis Fuchs in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son of German Catholic immigrants Louis Fuchs and Catherina Elisabetha Flach. The “Fox” surname was changed from the German “Fuchs” during the 1870s.
Fox spent his childhood and adolescence at the family ranch in San Francisco del Rincn in Guanajuato. He moved to Mexico City to attend the Universidad Iberoamericana where he pursued a business degree until 1964, and he earned his diploma in Top Management Skills from the Harvard Business School in the United States. He didn’t graduate from the Universidad Iberoamericana until early 2000s
In 1964, Fox went to work for the Coca-Cola Company where he started as a route supervisor, and he drove a delivery truck. He quickly rose in the company to become the supervisor of Coca-Cola’s operations, and later in all of Latin America. As the President of Coca Cola , Fox helped Coca-Cola become Mexico’s top-selling soft drink, increasing Coca-Cola’s sales by almost 50%.
Vicente Fox married a receptionist at Coca-Cola, Lilian de la Concha. They adopted four children, Ana Cristina, Vicente, Paulina, and Rodrigo. In 1990, after 20 years of marriage, Lilian filed for and was granted a divorce.
Vicente Fox married for the second time while in office as President. He married Marta Mara Sahagn Jimnez (until then his spokesperson) on July 2, 2001, the first anniversary of his presidential election and his 59th birthday. For both, this was their second marriage.
After retiring from Coca-Cola, Vicente Fox began to participate in various public activities in Guanajuato, where he created the “Patronato de la Casa Cuna Amigo Daniel”, an orphanage. He was the president of the Patronato Loyola, a sponsor of the Len campus of the Universidad Iberoamericana, and of the Lux Institute.
Early political career
With the support of Manuel Clouthier, Vicente Fox joined the Partido Accin Nacional on March 1, 1988. That same year he ran for and was elected to the federal Chamber of Deputies representing the Third Federal District in Len, Guanajuato.
Governor of Guanajuato
After serving in the Chamber of Deputies, Fox sought the governorship in Guanajuato in 1991, but lost to Ramn Aguirre Velzquez of the PRI. Following the election, local discontent was so great that the state Congress appointed Carlos Medina Placencia of the PAN as interim governor. Four years later, Fox decided to run again, winning by a vote of 2 to 1; thus, he became the new governor.
As governor, Fox promoted government efficiency and transparency. He was one of the first state governors of Mexico to give a clear, public and timely account of the finances of Guanajuato.
Fox pushed for the consolidation of small firms, promoted the sale of goods manufactured in Guanajuato overseas and created a unique system in which micro-credits with no overdue portfolio were granted. Under Fox, the state became the fifth most important Mexican state economy.
Campaign for President
On July 7, 1997 (three years before the presidential election of 2000), Vicente Fox decided to run for President of Mexico. In spite of opposition within his party, Fox secured his candidacy representing the Alliance for Change, a political coalition formed by the National Action Party and the Green Ecological Party of Mexico on November 14, 1999.
During the course of his campaign a presidential debate was organized. There was a disagreement between the three main contenders, Fox, Francisco Labastida of the PRI and Cuauhtmoc Crdenas of the PRD, and some of the arguments were broadcast on national television, notably the one on whether the debate should be held that same day or the following Friday. For minutes, Fox kept repeating the word “Hoy” meaning “today”, originating the famous phrase “hoy, hoy, hoy!”. The other candidates decided to postpone the debate, but Fox used that day’s airtime anyway. At first the action brought criticism to Fox, but it soon backfired against his opponents when Fox started using his new phrase to gain new supporters as he campaigned for a better future “today”.
Fox’s primary voting bloc were the Criollo and Mestizo populace of Northern and Central Mexico.[citation needed] During the presidential debate his main opponent, Francisco Labastida, claimed in a nationally televised debate that Vicente Fox had repeatedly called him a “sissy” and a “cross-dresser”. Fox’s campaign slogans were “Ya!” (”Right now!”), “Ya ganamos” (”We’ve already won”) and “Vota Alianza por el Cambio” meaning “Vote for Alliance for Change”.
Amigos de Fox
Amigos de Fox (”Friends of Fox”) was a non-profit fund raising group that was instrumental in getting Vicente Fox elected President of Mexico. The phrase was also used as a campaign slogan referring to the millions of people supporting Fox in the 2000 presidential elections.
In 2003, money-laundering charges were lodged against the fund raising group, but were dropped shortly before the July 2003 mid-term elections.
Election results
Vicente Fox on inauguration day alongside two of his children in a mass rally and parade around Mexico City.
On July 2, 2000, (Fox’s 58th birthday) he won the presidential election with 43% (15,989,636 votes) of the popular vote, followed by the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) candidate Francisco Labastida with 36% (13,579,718 votes), and Cuauhtmoc Crdenas of the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD) with 17% (6,256,780 votes). Vicente Fox declared victory that same night, a victory which was ratified by President Zedillo. After the final results were announced, President-elect Vicente Fox met with thousands of supporters at the Angel of Independence monument in Mexico City, to address his supporters and celebrate his victory. His opponents conceded the election later that night.
President-elect Vicente Fox received an enormous amount of media coverage, as well as many congratulating messages and phone calls from world leaders including former President of the United States, Bill Clinton.
Fox took office as president on December 1, 2000, marking the first time in Mexico’s history that an incumbent government peacefully surrendered power to an elected member of the opposition.
Presidency
See article Fox administration
Public image
Fox with Laura Bush, Marta Sahagn, and George W. Bush, Crawford, Texas, March 5, 2004
During his campaign for president, Vicente Fox became well known for his unique cowboy style and popular charisma. With his trademark boots and ox belt buckle, the president’s personal style closely resembled that of many stereotypical “Mexicans”. A gifted speaker, Fox usually gathered big crowds throughout his six years as president.
At six foot five, President Fox easily stood out in most crowds, and is believed to be one of the tallest presidents in Mexican history. After his inauguration, President Fox usually only wore suits for formal occasions, opting to wear his signature boots and jeans throughout his many visits around Mexico.
When President Fox welcomed U.S. President George W. Bush to his ranch in Guanajuato, both presidents were wearing Fox signature black cowboy boots, prompting the Wall Street Journal to call it he Boot Summit.
Post-presidential life
Public speaking
President Fox speaking
After leaving office in December 2006, Fox has maintained himself in the public eye by speaking in countries such as Nigeria, Canada and the United States about topics such as the controversial 2006 election and the Iraq War. In Mexico, Fox’s busy post-presidency has caused much criticism. Nevertheless, Fox stated:
There is no reason to hold to the anti-democratic rules of those who still live in the authoritarian pastnow that Mexico is a democracy, every citizen has the right to express himself, even a former president.
In addition, President Fox has expressed interest in campaigning for PAN candidates in future Mexican elections, an action that would make him the first former president in many decades to do so. Given that President Fox is still well-liked and left office with approval ratings looming 70%, many in Mexico are wondering if his support could result in candidates being elected.
Controversial comments
President Vicente Fox (left) with Lpez Obrador (center) and former Mxico State governor Arturo Montiel (right).
In March 2002, 2 days prior to The International Conference on Financing for Development held in Monterrey, NL. Mxico, Fox called Cuba President Fidel Castro to give him instructions that would limit Castro’s presence in the country while attending to the summit. He instructed Castro among other things to limit his comments regarding the United States, to arrive, give his speech, eat and leave the country ASAP. This led Castro years later to call Fox as “despicable treacherous”.
In May 2005, a controversy arose over comments Fox made during a meeting with Texas businesspeople in which he said, “There is no doubt that Mexicans, filled with dignity, willingness and ability to work, are doing jobs that not even blacks want to do there in the United States.” This angered many African-Americans in the United States, prompting many black leaders to demand an apology from Fox. The Reverend Al Sharpton requested a formal apology from Fox to the African-American community and called for an economic boycott of Mexican products until an apology was received; he and many African-Americans felt that Fox’s comments were insensitive and racist. The Reverend Jesse Jackson, during a news conference concerning Fox’s statement about African-Americans, said that he felt that the comments were, “unwitting, unnecessary and inappropriate” and added that “[Fox's] statement had the impact of being inciting and divisive.”
Fox was also known to have misspoken the name of Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges as “Jos Luis Borgus” in the Royal Congress of the Spanish Language. This error sparked accusations of an “uncultured” President.
On May 30, 2005, President Vicente Fox told reporters that the majority of the Jurez killings had been resolved and the perpetrators placed behind bars. He went on to criticize the media for “rehashing” the same 300 or 400 murders, and said matters needed to be seen in their “proper dimension”.
In 2006 after Evo Morales refused to sell natural gas to willing buyers, Fox said, “Well, they’ll either have to consume it all themselves or they’re going to have to eat it.”
In yet another controversial move he decided to cancel the parade commemorating the 96th anniversary of the Mexican Revolution to take place November 20, arguing that it’s an obsolete celebration in which nobody wants to participate anymore. Some analysts consider that this is a response to Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador’s alternative presidency assuming to take place the same day. Criticism changes regarding the different sources: while some consider it a smart decision, others view it as a sign of political weakness.
On March 8, 2006, in the wake of the murder of Canadian couple Domenico and Nancy Ianiero at a Cancun Mexican resort, Fox said that there was evidence that pointed to Canadian suspects from Thunder Bay, in order to assert that Cancun remained a safe vacation resort. Fox’s comments were criticized by the Ianiero’s lawyer Edward Greenspan for compromising the investigation, which Mexican authorities had largely mishandled. Quintana Roo attorney general Bello Melchor Rodriguez later stated that the Canadians were never considered as suspects.
In November 2006, the TV network Telemundo released a video recording previous to an interview with President Fox where he states: “Ya hoy hablo libre, ya digo cualquier tontera, ya no importa, ya total, yo ya me voy,” which means “Now, I speak freely. Now, I say any stupidity. It doesn’t matter anymore. Anyway, I’m already leaving.” Then, during the interview he talked about the violent situation in Oaxaca. The President’s office complained about the release of this images and said he was not aware of the camera and microphones being turned on. News agency EFE accused Telemundo of acting unethically, for the video is their intellectual property.
In a lecture in the United States, in which he was a keynote speaker, he identified writer Mario Vargas Llosa as a Nobel laureated Colombian, when he is Peruvian (Spanish by naturalization) and not a Nobel Prize winner.
Autobiography
Vicente Fox with former President of The United States George W. Bush and Canada’s Prime Minister Stephen Harper stand in front of “El Castillo” in Chichen Itza, March 30, 2006
Fox’s autobiography, entitled Revolution of Hope: The Life, Faith and Dreams of a Mexican President, was released in September 2007, only in English, and only in the United States. To promote its release, Fox toured many U.S. cities to do book-signings and interviews with U.S. media. During his tour, however, he faced protests from Mexican immigrants who accused him of actions that forced them to emigrate and find jobs in the United States. He faced the subject several times during interviews, such as one held with Fox News’s Bill O’Reilly, who questioned him about the massive illegal immigration problem of Mexicans into the United States. Finally, during an interview with Telemundo’s Rubn Luengas, the interviewer asked Fox about allegations concerning some properties of Vicente Fox’s wife, Martha Sahagn. After Fox explained the situation he asked the interviewer not to make false accusations and to prove what he was saying. Luengas said “I’m telling you in your face, I’m not a liar”. After this Fox walked out of the studio, calling the interviewer a ‘liar’, ‘vulgar’, and ’stupid’. Upon the book’s release, many were surprised to read several excerpts wherein Fox was highly critical of United States President, George W. Bush, considered by many to be a close friend of Fox’s. For example, Fox wrote that Bush was “the cockiest guy I have ever met in my life,” and claimed that he was surprised that Bush had ever made it to the White House. Later, in an interview with Larry King, Fox explained that this was a misunderstanding; what he meant by calling George W. Bush ‘cocky’ was to say he was ‘confident’. Fox also referred to Bush in his autobiography as a “windshield cowboy”, due to Bush’s apparent fear of a horse Vicente offered him to ride.
Fox Center of Studies, Library and Museum
See: Vicente Fox Center of Studies, Library and Museum
On January 12, 2007, over a month after he left office, Vicente Fox announced the construction of a center of studies, library and museum that has been labeled by the US press as Mexico’s First Presidential Library. The project will be a library, museum, a “center for the advancement of democracy”, a study center, and a hotel, and it will be completely privately funded. It is expected to be a genuine U.S. style presidential library. It will be built in his home state of Guanajuato, in his home town of San Francisco del Rincn.
While museums are abundant throughout the country, it has nothing comparable to a presidential library where personal documents, records, and gifts amassed by a country leader are opened to the public. Fox library will be modeled after the Bill Clinton Library in Little Rock, Arkansas, which, according to the former President, will allow Mexicans to enjoy, for the first time in Mexico history, the liberty to review the documents, images and records that made up his six years as president.
According to the official website, the construction of the Center is in progress and advancing. Final completion of the library is expected by late 2007.
Centrist Democratic International
On September 20, 2007, Fox was elected Co-President (along with the re-elected Pier Ferdinando Casini) of the Centrist Democratic International at its leader’s meeting in Rome. The CDI is the international organization of political parties that counts Fox’s party, the National Action Party, as a member.
Statue controversy
Statue of Vicente Fox in Boca del Ro, Veracruz.
In October 2007, an announcement was made in the municipality of Boca del Ro, Veracruz, that a 3 meter (10 ft) statue of Vicente Fox was to be erected to honor the former president. This aroused much criticism from the opposition Party of the Democratic Revolution and Mexican media towards Boca del Ro’s mayor, who is affiliated with the National Action Party, of which Fox is also a member.
The statue was put in place amidst protests on the dawn of October 13, 2007. The inauguration was to have been held on October 14, 2007. Some hours after the installation, however, a crowd of about 100 people brought the statue down with a rope, damaging it. The statue was later put back in place for the inauguration, then taken away for repairs.
PAN members accused Veracruz’s governor, Fidel Herrera Beltrn, of ordering the attack on the statue, while Fox called him “intolerant.” Some sources in the media considered that the installation of the statue was inappropriate, since former President Fox was facing allegations relating to an illicit enrichment scandal.
Many of the protesters were members of the center-left Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), which governed Mexico for much of the 20th century, until Fox (of the conservative National Action Party [PAN]) won the 2000 presidential election, ousting the PRI from power.
See also
List of Presidents of Mexico
National Action Party (Mexico)
Mexican general election, 2000
Notes
^ Who’s Who at CDI-IDC
^ Milner, Kate (2000-07-02). “End of era for all-powerful party”. BBC News. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/815359.stm. Retrieved 2008-11-28.
^ es:CentroFox.org.mx
^ Martinez, Fabiola (2006-09-01). “Indagar PGR origen de un acta de nacimiento del padre de Fox”. El peridico de Mxico. http://www.jornada.unam.mx/2006/09/01/017n2pol.php. Retrieved 2007-06-04.
^ Ancestry.com. Cincinnati, Ohio Directory, 1890-91 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: MyFamily.com, Inc., 2000. Original data: Cincinnati, OH, USA: Williams & Co., 1890.
^ a b “Vicente Fox: President Elect of Mexico”. 2000. http://www.elbalero.gob.mx/kids/history/html/bio_foxkids.html. Retrieved 2007-06-04.
^ Milner, Kate (2000-07-03). “Profile: Vicente Fox” (in English). BBC. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/813206.stm. Retrieved 2007-06-04.
^ BeleJack, Barbara (2001-02-16). “Live, from Guanjuato: It’s President VICENTE FOX!” (in English). Texas Observer. http://www.texasobserver.org/article.php?aid=20. Retrieved 2007-06-04.
^ Ross, John (March 2001). “Fox, Inc. Takes Over Mexico”. Third World Traveler. http://www.thirdworldtraveler.com/Mexico/Fox_Inc_Mexico.html. Retrieved 2007-06-04.
^ a b c Biography of Vicente Fox
^ Biography of Vicente Fox, United Nations. (accessed January 20, 2010)
^ Biography of Vicente Fox, United Nations. (accessed January 20, 2010)
^ Encyclopedia.com
^ http://us-mex.irc-online.org/borderlines/updater/2000/june30Elect.html
^ LaRaza.com
^ AlertNet.org
^ Salon.com News | Fox is it
^ BBC News | AMERICAS | Profile: Vicente Fox
^ Google Image Search
^ Google Image Search
^ Wall, Allan. [http://mexidata.info/id1547.html “Fox Redefines the Role of Past Mexican Presidents.” (accessed January 20, 2010)
^ Gonzalez, Enrique Andrade, “The Final Days of Mexican President Vicente Fox” Mexidate.Info
^ “Mexican leader criticized for comment on blacks,” CNN.com, May 15, 2005.
^ a b “Vuelve Fox a incurrir en error cultural en discurso,”, El Universal, Mxico.
^ “Evo pide a Fox que no trate de humillarlo por presunta negativa a vender gas a Mxico” 24 de Marzo de 2008.
^ “Cancela Fox, porque son iempos democrticos, el desfile deportivo del 20 de noviembre; PRI considera que cedi la plaza a Lpez 24 de Marzo de 2008.
^
^
^ El Porvenir | Nacional | uedo decir cualquier tontera… ya me voy: Fox
^ Clock ticking for Allyn on Fox book | Dallas Morning News | News for Dallas, Texas | Arts & Entertainment
^ Fox reaparece en Los ngeles; entre protestas, defiende logros - El Universal - Mxico
^ FOXNews.com - Former Mexican President Vicente Fox Debates Immigration Issue With Bill - Bill Oeilly | The Oeilly Factor
^ Entrevista con Vicente Fox causa polmica - Noticias - KVEA Los Angeles
^ Polmica por gira de Fox
^ Vicente Fox: Bush a “windshield cowboy” who’s scared of horses | Corrente
^ AND Fox&siteelnorte Harn realidad a ‘Foxilandia’ by Grupo Reforma
^ SignOnSanDiego.com > News > Mexico - Fox gets award for reform in Mexico
^ http://centrofox.org.mx/cebm_c070413_1.html
^ MySA.com: Metro | State
^ Interesa a IP ‘Foxilandia’ by Grupo Reforma
^ Callan sobre inversin en ‘Foxilandia’ by Grupo Reforma
^ Fox looks to cement his place in history | The San Diego Union-Tribune
^ http://centrofox.org.mx/cebm_c070129.html
^ Fox Center.
^ Portail d’informations Ce site est en vente!
^ La Prensa Latina Blog Archive Derriban estatua de Vicente Fox
^ Protestors Tear Down Vicente Fox Statue, Statue Of Former Mexican President Destroyed Right Before Dedication - CBS News
External links
Wikiquote has a collection of quotations related to: Vicente Fox
Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Vicente Fox
Vicente Fox website during his Presidency
Vicente Fox Museum and Library
Extended bio and presidential tenure, by CIDOB Foundation
Vicente Fox Interview on The Hour with George Stroumboulopoulos
Vicente Fox at the Internet Movie Database
Political offices
Preceded by
Ernesto Zedillo
President of Mexico
20002006
Succeeded by
Felipe Caldern
Preceded by
unknown
Co-President of Centrist Democrat International
2006resent
Succeeded by
incumbent
Party political offices
Preceded by
Diego Fernndez de Cevallos
PAN presidential candidate
2000
Succeeded by
Felipe Caldern
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Post-Revolution
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Persondata
NAME
Fox, Vicente
ALTERNATIVE NAMES
Fox Quesada, Vicente (Spanish)
SHORT DESCRIPTION
President of Mexico (2000 - 2006)
DATE OF BIRTH
July 2, 1942
PLACE OF BIRTH
Mexico City, Mexico
DATE OF DEATH
PLACE OF DEATH
Categories: Vicente Fox | 1942 births | Living people | Presidents of Mexico | 20th-century national presidents in North America | 21st-century national presidents in North America | Mexican presidential candidates (2000) | Governors of Guanajuato | Members of the National Action Party (Mexico) | Mexican federal deputies | Political scandals in Mexico | Ibero-American University alumni | Mexicans of American descent | Mexican Roman Catholics | Mexicans of Basque descent | Mexicans of German descentHidden categories: All articles with unsourced statements | Articles with unsourced statements from July 2008
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So I found a pair of tall riding boots on craigslist that are only $20. They are 6 years old but only used for about 6 months. Plus, they are my size… womens 7. I am going to meet them on Friday to try them on. My question is, do you think they will fit? I know you can’t tell and I won’t know until I try them on, but do tall riding boots have many different sizes around your calf??? Wow I feel stupid asking this question lol
i’m not fat or anything or have huge calfs, I was just wondering if there are different sizes? Also, how should they fit/feel? Any general rules of thumb about how tight they should be? I’ve never bought tall boots before because I have always just rode a lot of western for fun.
Dressage/ English Boots Question!?
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Okay, here’s a short back story. Last year, I started horseback riding Western. I didn’t have cowboy boots and wore tennis shoes.
Now, it’s one year later and I want to do English riding. More specifically, Dressage and/ or Jumping. My family and I aren’t the kind where we have tons of money to spend, but not the ones where we don’t have any money to spend. What I’m wondering is, do I need Dressage boots or could I just use tall boots for English riding, no matter what the discipline. Also, I am a male and am bigger, especially in my legs. I need to get English riding boots for lessons but they can’t be more than like $100. I would prefer they have a full length zipper in the back, but I’m open to all boots. Thanks so much for the help! Oh yeah, how do you measure Dressage/ English saddle sizes for me? And would boot sizes be the same as regular shoe sizes? I’m a twelve by the way.
Happy Holidays to all!
Six Tips For Boomer Dating Success
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Let’s face it: Dating is daunting. And when you’re a Boomer, it may seem next to impossible. You might be coming out of a long-term marriage, or emerging from a period of time where you were consumed with raising children or caring for elderly parents — or, perhaps you still are responsible for children and/parents. Have your “dating muscles” atrophied? You might feel like you don’t have the slightest idea how to go about flirting, meeting the opposite sex, much less handling issues of sexually transmitted diseases. You might feel like your body is old or unattractive. Disrobing in front of a romantic partner? Definitely not.
Plus, today’s dating world doesn’t remotely resemble the one you knew. How proactive are women supposed to be? Is the third-date rule (for having sex) still in effect? Just how do you handle an HIV discussion? Is online dating reliable, safe, or even effective? And all these questions and difficulties are magnified for female Boomers, who outnumber their male counterparts and also have to compete with younger women.
Yet many Boomers, including women, have gone out there and had the fun and excitement of their teenage years all over again (and with the wisdom of the years, it’s even better!). A 54 year-old artist recently e-mailed me about her new Boomer boyfriend:
Joe adores me. He tells me I am a treasure, a rare beauty. I make him feel alive after so many years of being dead. Joe loves my voice, my thoughts, my work. He bought riding boots and we went riding together. His 95-year-old mom in Miami wants to see my photo.
Many Boomers have created love in their lives — the kind of deeply fulfilling love that offers true friendship along with the chemistry of lovers. Love, of course, is good for us. Research shows that married people are healthier both emotionally and physically. And having sex is good for us, too. Research shows that an active sex life may lead to a longer life, a better immune system, greater heart health, improved mood, even the ability to prevent certain cancers and ward off pain. Intercourse typically burns around 200 calories, which is equivalent to running on the treadmill for 30 minutes! And both activities release endorphins, which elevate mood and lower pain levels.
Once you take the dating plunge, you may be very pleasantly surprised at the possibilities, especially in online dating. This goes for female Boomers too. They often report that once they start, they feel more confident, more clear about what they want and therefore, more attractive! Female Boomers are more empowered and more affluent than ever before. The good news is that often, younger women cannot compete with them for a male Boomer’s attention. The thirty-somethings are too active and demanding in terms of nightlife and other activities, whereas a Boomer man may prefer the seasoned wise companionship of a woman who has been there and done that. In other words, both male and female Boomers are in a position to pick and choose who they want to date.
And there is plenty to pick and choose from. A recent survey showed that 70 percent of single baby Boomers actively date. And 45 percent of men and 38 percent of women between the ages of 40 and 59 have sex once a week. Boomers have taken to online dating in increasing numbers.
Lavalife.com, a dating site known for its younger clientele, reported a 39 percent increase in Boomer use from 2003-2006 and Match.com indicates that the 50+ singles are its fastest-growing segment.
Here’s what Shirley, a 50-year-old divorcee is experiencing:
I just met another amazing guy. This one actually was suggested by Match. I winked. He e-mailed. I e-mailed back. He called me and we had a fabulous conversation. He was so easy to talk to. He seemed honest and sincere. I asked some pretty blunt questions that he happily answered in good detail. And he’s tall! He created a business and sold it in 2006 because he had plenty of money and wanted to do something else. On the other hand, Bill, the writer, is coming out this afternoon. We are going to the beach. Bill says that he has written a poem for me…
So, what are you waiting for? Join the party!
The formula for successful Boomer dating
Tip 1: Bring out your charisma. Find activities that you truly adore and that create happiness and joy in your life. Ideally, pick activities that will transform both the inner and outer you. Take a personal growth course; learn to meditate; or start a spiritual practice.
Tip 2: Take care of you. For the outer (and inner) you, start a regular exercise program. It is definitely the fountain of youth. Give yourself a makeover so that you look great in your own eyes. Get that trendy haircut, go shopping and try out those clothes that your friend wears that give him/her a sexy, attractive or powerful look.
Tip 3: Don’t be shy to advertise. Then put out the word in your network that you are ready to date. Seventy-two percent of relationships come from a person’s network of friends, co-workers, and family. At first, don’t be picky — simply tell folks you are looking for a wonderful person.
Tip 4: Go where the singles go. Go where the opposite sex (or same sex, if you prefer) is. If you like what you see, smile, make eye contact, give a sincere compliment or ask for some help. Sign up for on-going classes/activities that interest you and that have potential dates in them. For example, courses on finance, investing, sports and leadership; snowboarding/skiing; hiking; and cigar tasting usually have a lot of men in them. If you’re a Boomer male, women are attracted to growth, craft, cooking, or spiritual courses. If you’re not sure, ask the enroller about the ratio of men to women. There are many other fun activities, classes, and clubs so Google any class/topic plus “your city” and “classes.”
Tip 5: Definitely do not miss out on online dating. Using the Internet is essential because it gives you a sense of the wide variety of singles that are out there right now. Sixteen million singles are dating online in the U.S. according to the latest independent research. You can partake of this smorgasbord of possibilities right there at your computer. Spend the time and work two sites. In addition to Match.com and Lavalife.com, Boomers can use sites like eHarmony or PerfectMatch.com (63 percent are 35 to 60) and PrimeSingles.net, a 50+ site whose membership grew 39 percent in 2005. Then there are more specialized sites like BigChurch.com for Christians, Jdate.com if you’re Jewish, or OurPersonals.com if you’re looking for same-sex romance.
Tip 6: Put some time into it. Most people spend more time planning a vacation than they do planning their dating lives. And they get great vacations and little-to-no love life! So if you want to date, get out your calendar and set aside 8 to 10 hours per week to spend on going to courses. Then work your online dating program so that you are actually going out on dates.
You have the basic tools for successful Boomer dating. You can learn the latest research on boomer dating and on creating love that is just right for you in my new book, Love in 90 Days: The Essential Guide to Finding Your Own True Love.
So remember, face down your fears and insecurities and get in the game. As the poet Kahlil Gibran wrote:
When love beckons to you, follow him, though his ways are hard and steep. And when his wings enfold you yield to him, though the sword hidden among his pinions may wound you. And when he speaks to you, believe in him…
Psychologist, Dr. Diana Kirschner, appeared on Oprah and is a frequent guest on the Today Show. For 25+ years she has helped thousands of single women find love. Her acclaimed new book is Love in 90 Days: The Essential Guide to Finding Your Own True Love. For her etips, blog, dating articles, daily affirmations & discussion forum visit http://www.lovein90days.com
Tips on Maintaining Horse and Rider Safety
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If you are an avid horseman or woman, chances are that you have been well versed in horse and rider safety. However, there are beginning riders or ones who are learning outside of a riding stable environment that may not know much about how to stay safe when you are on or around horses.
One thing that many people may not realize is just how large horses can be. This can be especially true of the large draft horses such as Clydesdales, Percherons and Shire horses. They are normally quite gentle but if they are startled or feel threatened they can bite or kick. Keeping this in mind can help you stay safe around horses.
Remember that the most dangerous place to stand is directly behind a horse. They may move around and bump you and with very large horses this can accidentally knock you over without even noticing. You should remember that fact whenever you are around horses. Always speak softly and do not suddenly rush up on a horse as this can startle them. Allow a horse to smell and get to know you before you rush up on them and you will find that you will be much safer as a result.
If you will be riding a horse, there are a few key pieces of equipment you need to maintain horse and rider safety. You need to wear a helmet, especially if you are riding English style. This can protect your head in the event that you fall off of your horse. If you are riding through terrain where there are trees, it prevents you from being struck in the head by low hanging branches. A specially made riding helmet is always a great idea but if you are just riding for the day you can wear a bicycle or multi-sport helmet.
You should wear boots with heels on your feet. There are several reasons for this. A closed boot will protect your foot if you are stepped on or if you are hit by branches or other items. The heels will help you to keep your feet in the stirrups which can be critical to horse and rider safety if you are riding at more than a walk. This is equally true of English and Western riding styles. The style of boot is the only difference.
If you are serious about horse and rider safety you will find that you are much more likely to have a good riding experience. Keeping an eye out as you ride and staying away from anything that your horse can be injured by is important and can make sure that you and your horse have an excellent working relationship for years to come.
Visit http://www.horseturnoutblankets.org for an indepth buying guide on horse turnout blankets and the latest horse blanket deals.
English Riding Boot Measurements!!!!?
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I’m selling a pair of regular english riding boots, and someone who is interested in buying them has asked me some measurements of them.
She wants to know:
1) Width of foot
2) Calf measurement
3) Length of inside of boot
I know nothing of how to do these measurements correctly!!
please help?!?
Horse riding boots… Why would someone wear tall boots instead of paddock or jodphur boots?
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Tall boots just seem like a pain and are expensive. Is there any practical reason for tall boots?
Horses FAQ
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Are mineral lick in reality doomed to failure for them?
The horse I just bought licks my hands to procure the salt off, so I got him a mineral lick. The owner of the steady I’m boarding him at says she doesn’t use them and that they are bad for horses. I always used them at my…
Are morgans obedient jumper for a intermediate girl that requirements to bound?
i really wnat to start jumping so please if you any onfo please share
Are my horses pasterns too long for jump?
I really would only like professional opinions, but whether you know what your talking about, that is fine too.Just dont be some kid thats trying to grasp 2 points, and giving a silly opinion answer, if you do, at lowest make it so i dont think…
Are near any bits that designed for orwork well-mannered for slide stopping?
i was just wondering if near were any that actually work well. THX:)
Are near any disciplines that involve this?
I have a 6 year old Walker mare I am retraining. She has be abused and sored, so things are being taken at a snail’s pace despite her protests to go freshly a bit faster. Her pads were taken off within early July, and I…
Are near any riding/boarding stables surrounded by Central Illinois (Bloomington-Normal area)?
I’m almost finished with my Bachelor’s at my University (Senior) and am looking for a place to intern near where on earth I live. I’m an Animal Science major with a focus in Equine Science. I don’t own much experience with horses outside of my classes, but…
Are near english partly chap that own a gap or something for spurs?
i hate wearing my half chaps next to spurs but my horse needs spurs and my legs always get ripped up in need my half chaps, if near id any kind of chap close to that please let me know where to buy them. i do not…
Are nearby simple ways to put together certain a saddle fits?
I don’t understand why saddles don’t come with directions on how to fit them. I was in the feed store the other time and the woman was so excited cause her saddle was so cush on her side of the saddle. When I said but does it…
Are ponnies okay for riding?
are they strong enough to carry adalts who are 80kg / or 170 lb. ?
Are pumpkins doomed to failure for horses?
Are pumpkins poisonous for horses,Me and me friends made halloween treats for our horses,out of pumpkin pulp
Are Quarabs a apt breed of horse?
I ride english, jumping and dressage. I would just like to know whether a Quarter Horse x Anglo Arabian would be a suitable breed of horse.Thankyou in advance!
Are rodeos near bucking broncos cruel?
Is it in your opinion cruel?
Are tan/beige jods. a MUST for a horse show?
hey peoplei have 1 pair of suntan jods, and 1 blue and i blackis it a must to wear the tan ones at a show?( english show jumping))i have only done a LOT LOT LOT of schooling shows and they dont aid.so yea please help!!thxand a best…
Are the horse treats I made past the worst?
I made treats for my horse- here’s my ingredients:Quaker Dried OatsApplesPlumsPowdered SugarFlax Seed OilBaking SodaGround CinnamonGraham Cracker Bread CrumbsFructose Corn Syrup ( Chopped Plums and Carrots, mixed all of this together, put into balls and oven baked.)They look good and smell fitting enough for us to eat…
Are these boots ANY flawless? PICS?
Hi,so right now im riding with ovation ladies short boots that were roughly 100$and with chaps. but since my half chap are getting a little small, i do not relly wanna buy another pair.so im thinking of switching tio tall boots that i can wear surrounded by…
Are thoroughbreds ok?
are thoroughbreds good intermediate horses? first time ownership? would i be able to handle one on my own? i come across to be attracted to them because of their height and prices something not really pricey for say 2500 and under. any suggestion i’ve try equinenow,…
Are tie-downs and martingales fruitless?
well i use a tie down when i ride western b/c my horse gets a little a-head of himself when i don’t,(oh and by the road im 14 so im not like fully grown so im a little causious about my very well being as well as…
Are within any books on showing surrounded by showmanship/halter?
I know how to teach the horse everything on the ground for it, but I have no idea more or less anything that has to do with showing it. Like how you stand and move around the judge, how you step your walk, how many paces you…
Are within packages on the quarter queue contained by a dressage arena?
For some reason, I have a recollection that there are junk mail along the quarter line in a [regulation size] dressage arena. Am I just making this up or not? I can’t appear to find the information anywhere, but if anyone knows that there are…
Are you a true equestrian? For horse owners and leasers.?
Do you love your horse to a point when you dont see him for a week, you are disapointed and dont want to do anything but ride?Do you purposfully match alll of your horses tack to be the same color?Do have a horse for the riding or…
Articles online for horse condition?
Has anyone ever found a great website(s) with articles on health related horse issues. I want to brush up on a lot of stuff i may run into here at the rescue and not nonetheless faced, like my first experience with the colic yesterday. I…
At what age can a horse..(training question)?
Again with a foal…I’m planning on using a Clinton Anderson methods, working with foals, weanlings and yearlings, after that though, what age could I start moving on with his other video? like at 1 1/2 or 2?I’m probably going to be getting a yearling soon, and he…
Australian Stock Saddle?
Just wondering if this is a good saddle or not? i don’t own it and don’t know what to look for in a stock saddle. http://images.google.com.au/imgres?imgur… that’s the contact i don’t know if it will work not good at this whole piece i will…
Baby horse press? 5 month old-fashioned filly?
I have a baby horse that someone gave me to be exact 5 months old she was a orphan. She is lone 5 months old right now and has be doing fine but the last few days she has not been consumption as much as she has…
Balancing time?..Horses and homework..?
I feel as though i never have enough time. I come domestic at four from school and head strait to the barn. i board my horses and i’m there until 6:30-7. when i attain home it seems like i can’t grasp all my homework…
Barabool Park Equestrian Center?
I REALLING NEED TO FIND SOMEONE THAT HAS BEEN TO THIS PLACE OR HAS THERE HORSE THERE OR KNOWS ABOUT IT! i am getting a horse soon and i need a place to keep it! If i carnt find a place i can keep it i at…
Barn chores for riding time?
My trainer offered to give me riding time for cleaning some box and standing stalls over the winter. I like to be there besides. Anybody have a bad experience with this class of trade?
Barn Friends’ Christmas Presents?
I’m uncreative, and I’m looking for a good present for my two best barn buds for Christmas and/or their birthdays, which are in January. I was thinking approximately a horse magazine subscription, but that wouldn’t be much of a surprise. (; One of my friends, Lisa, made…
Barns contained by Northern Ohio?
I need a list of Hunter Jumper stables in Northern Ohio.I live within the cleveland area and want to more my horse.Help.
Barrel race! I stipulation give support to for neutral this year!! ?
Ok i have a 9 yr old tb mare that i have trained for barrels and she does great! solely one problem, our first barrel sucks… Every time we go to it (right) she goes contained by to the pocket good but she hesitates with her hind…
More Horses Q&A Please visit : PetsAsk.com
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Amazing Keystone Colorado
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As presented in www.FirstLightSports.com
Standing atop Keystone’s pristine mountain peaks at over 12,000 feet elevation, I stared in awe at the surrounding scenery. I’ve been to Colorado many times before and each time it takes me a while to ratchet-up my Midwestern sensibilities for the Rockies . At first the sapphire blue skies and the impossibly white snow of the mountain shocked and thrilled me. I had been at altitude for a full day already and was ready, breathing almost normally, for a full day of skiing at Keystone.
My lodging for this trip was a cozy condo in Frisco, Colorado . We had only a short 15 minute drive to Keystone’s Montezuma parking lot at the base of the River Run village. It was the Tuesday following a busy Presidents’ Day Holiday , and the lot didn’t seem too crowded at 8:30 in the morning. We trundled our group over to Keystone Sports where the manager, Chris, set us up with some skis for the day. The mountain was riding firm and Chris recommended a set of 174cm K2-Apache-Sport skis. That proved to be an excellent choice; they held well and ran fast on the groomers, and felt lively and nimble in the bumps. Chris told me that if it turned powdery he’d swap me into a pair of wider powder skis. The conditions stayed pretty much the same for a couple days, so I didn’t get to try out his powder ski choice. While passing through River Run village a day or two later, I did stop in to Keystone Sports to say hi. As we talked skis for a bit, Chris had Tony, one of the ski techs, put a fresh coat of wax on my skis. I love a service organization.
At the base of River Run there are two lifts servicing the main face of the mountain. The River Run gondola and the Summit Express high speed quad lift. Early in the morning the wait for the gondola can be a bit long, that day it was only about 5 minutes. But there was absolutely no wait for the quad, so we boarded that and headed up. The peak of Dercum Mountain (11,640 feet elevation) is a busy place; six different lifts/gondolas all reach this point. Here also is the Summit House a large building with amenities and facilities for skiers needing food, rest or a bio-break.
As we prepared for the day on Tuesday I got a chance to meet some folks from the Keystone Resort. We ran into Lindsey Fussenegger the Media Coordinator and Spencer Wagner an expert mountain guide at the ubiquitous Starbucks coffee shop. I talked with Lindsey & Spencer for a while as the other members of my group were getting their lift passes and rental skis. They were understandably animated in their attitude toward “their mountain.” Lindsey spoke excitedly about the fantastic programs (ski school, “Play-it-Safe”, Betty Fest, etc.) and was particularly proud of the world class chefs running Keystone’s high-end restaurants. They both offered to ski with our group for the morning, and I couldn’t turn down the chance to get an insider’s perspective. When the rest of my group got there we gathered our equipment and headed for the lifts.
We followed Spencer through the gap and ended up shortly afterwards on another blue groomer called Whipsaw. We skied this run for a bit and then Spencer stopped us to talk for a moment. “What’s different about the conditions here,” he asked. None of us could identify how this run was unlike the last. Spencer explained that this side of the front face was used heavily for the ski school and that the runs here had been double-groomed. The snow-cat drivers set their grooming blades extra deep for a pass, and then make one more grooming run with their blades at regular depth. The result is a groomed run that skis almost like a freshly snowed run. At the bottom we boarded the quad lift again and retraced out our first run, adding a bit more speed and taking fewer stops.
Spencer and Lindsey wanted to get us a good overview of Keystone in a short time. With that in mind, we began to head toward the Outback area. The most expedient route there began from Summit House down a long run called Mozart. Mozart is (from my rough estimate of using a trail map) something just over 2 miles long. It’s like the interstate highway for traversing Keystone by skis. We let our boards run somewhat free and finished Mozart in about the time needed to play the first allegro of Mozart’s own famous clarinet concerto.
We found ourselves at the bottom the Santiago Express lift, boarded it and rode to the top. Here at North Peak the elevation is 11,660. We were now effectively zig-zagging our way up and down toward the Outback. The views continued to be spectacular from the lifts and the runs. Not quite to the Outback yet, we dropped into a run called Anticipation as we began our final approach to the Outback. Anticipation was running half mogul and half groomer this day, and I really enjoyed the opportunity to get into the open rollers and try out my knees. By now the sun was higher in the sky and providing that amazing radiant warmth that only exists in Colorado on sunny winter days.
At the bottom of Anticipation, we found ourselves poised to ride the Outback Express lift. From 11,980 feet elevation the choices at the top of the Outback lift are daunting. To my left and far-right are a plethora of black-diamond runs offering bumps, groomed steeps, and tree skiing. These include the Black Forest runs of Bushwhacker and The Grizz as well as Pica, Wolverine, and Wildfire. Immediately at the step-off point of the lift is a selection of blue runs which includes Oh Bob, Elk Run, Bighorn, and Porcupine. In between Porcupine and Pica is an amazing forest of tall pines that provide an awe inspiring playground. On the days I skied Keystone this no-man’s land was riding boot deep in pristine powder which the trees were protecting, apparently just for me. From the top of the Outback, Spencer pointed out that we could clearly see the lateral peaks and the many descending ski runs of Breckenridge resort. At this point, clearly miles removed from our starting point at Keystone’s River Run, we were much closer to the town of Breckenridge.
Spencer and Lindsey left us as we explored the Outback. The area offers so many options and, although serviced only by a single high-speed quad, there were no lift lines! Out there, we skied almost non-stop, completely unimpeded, and un-harried. It’s hard to imagine a ski day being much better than this one. Clearly it’s among my memorable and favorite ski days.
After a multitude of runs in the Outback we stopped for lunch at North Peak at the top of the Wayback quad fixed-speed lift. A well deserved break was in order but we still had some gas for the rest of the day. Working North Peak ’s front face we skied several blue and black runs including Star Fire, Last Alamo, Bullet, and Ambush. The afternoon sun had warmed us but the snow was still holding firm and light; we didn’t encounter any icy or bare faces. La Bonte’s cabin at the bottom of the Santiago Express provided a venue for some afternoon fun and relaxation. There was volleyball net set up, as well as a horseshoe court complete with steel posts. Neon pink colored horse-shoes helped brighten the game. We worked our way towards River Run village via the Ruby Express lift back to Dercum Mountain. It was nearly 4 pm when we crossed the bridge into the village, and jumped out of our ski equipment. We were pretty much running on empty but had enjoyed an amazing day on Keystone’s mountain.
There are several nice après ski places in River Run, but the one we picked was Parrot Eyes, a Jimmy Buffet-themed margarita and burritos hot spot. The place was packed with people who had spent the day on the mountain and were looking for a drink and some nachos. They specialize in tropical frosty drinks, but were more than willing to bring me a hot-cocoa laced with peppermint schnapps, my traditional après ski libation. That day at Parrot Eyes there was a guy running a karaoke setup, and singers both good and bad were eagerly participating. I was particularly entertained when two 12-year-old girls began belting out Joan Jett’s rock anthem “I Love Rock-n-Roll”. If there had been a “guitar hero” nearby, I’m sure that others would have joined in too. Paying a respectable homage to Jett’s 1981 vinyl-released tour de force, they did a nice job keeping on pitch and on rhythm.
Keystone is a wonderful ski venue that hosts almost a million visitors each year. They have an excellent ski school and run some very interesting programs including Betty Fest, Keystone’s women’s-only skiing program; one of the first programs in the industry to cater exclusively to women with specific training techniques, women’s-specific equipment workshops and pink boas. They also host a “Play it Safe” program which is designed to communicate, educate and enforce the basics of responsible, courteous skiing and snowboarding as outlined in The Skier’s Responsibility Code and the Colorado Skier Safety Act. They host other fun events like The River Run Mardi Gras Street Party and Parade (Feb. 5), The Blues and BBQ Festival (Mar. 29), The Volcom Peanut Butter and Rail Jam (Apr. 12), and other events throughout the season.
Keystone also gets the nod for having the best night skiing in North America . Your daily pass can keep you on the mountain until 9pm daily depending on the season. And as of the 2006 season there is amazing back country skiing available in Keystone’s Independence bowl. Day access to this expert-only skiing terrain is by snow-cat. While it’s a remote feeling venue, a day of back country cat-skiing comes complete with powder skis, a 4-star chef prepared lunch, and a mountain guide. Keystone’s family reputation is well earned and well kept, but there’s really something here for everyone from the rank beginner to the most experienced expert.
Statistics
Elevations: Base Elevation: 9,300 ft., Summit Elevation: 12,408 ft., Vertical: 3,128 ft.
Snow: Snowmaking: 684 acres, Average Yearly Snowfall: 230 inches
Acreage
Total Acreage: 3,148 acres, Number of Trails: 121, Number of Night Skiing Trails: 15, Number of Terrain Parks: 2, Number of Pipes: 2, Miles of Trails Available: 81, Nordic Trails Available: 16 km groomed/57 km packed
Terrain Difficulty Total KeystoneMountain NorthPeak The Outback Easiest 19% 32% 27% 0% More Difficult 32% 51% 52% 20% Most Difficult 49% 17% 21% 80%
Lifts:
Lifts: 20, High-Speed Gondolas: 2, High-Speed Six-Person Chairlift: 1, High-Speed Quad Chairs: 5, Quad Chairlift: 1, Triple Chairlift: 1, Double Chairlifts: 3, Surface Lifts: 1, Carpets: 6
Resort Statistics: Lodging Units - 1,500, Restaurants - 34, Shops - 30, Golf Courses - 2,
Grocery Stores - 2, Liquor Stores - 3, Microbreweries - 1, Adventure Passport Activities: 13
640 feet elevation) is a busy place; six different lifts/gondolas all reach this point. Here also is the Summit House a large building with amenities and facilities for skiers needing food, rest or a bio-break. We followed Spencer’s lead and set out on a blue groomer called The Flying Dutchman. Even with the modest crowds this run sees a lot of traffic. We got warmed up a bit and part way down on the right we saw a barricade of blaze orange snow fence set up apparently blocking the run which cut off to the right. Spencer stopped on the run and told us that the fencing indicated an entry to a ski school run called Ripperoo’s Road. Almost obscured at the tree line, at the high end of the fence was an opening gap about 10-feet wide. Spencer gave us our first lesson for the day: Snow fences can be skied around legally, roped-off runs cannot.
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George Karioris is the Senior Feature Writer for www.FirstLightSports.com George has had a desire to write since his school days where he occasionally contributed to his college newspaper. He has written for some online publications producing mostly travelogues for visits to various ski venues. George wants to bring the excitement and beauty of his sporting travels to the web through his feature articles. When on the snowy slopes he loves steep cruising ski runs where he can let his skis run. An avid road biker, George pedals in many organized rides plus near daily solo head-clearing rides. When he’s not biking, skiing, or writing for First Light Sports, George works his day job writing software for a large financial institution. E-Mail: george@FirstLightSports.com