TRICYCLE

Safety enhancement of a specialized power assisted tricycle for a child with osteogenesis imperfecta type III

2008-11-23T21:15:00.000+07:00

A child in the community of Laramie, Wyoming was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta which is a genetic disorder that limits the physical abilities, size, and strength of the child. A customized handicap scooters was developed, which offered a unique opportunity to serve multiple purposes in his childhood development. This tricycle will ultimately provide him with the opportunity to gain muscle mass, strength, coordination, and confidence. The tricycle was completed as a senior design project in 2002, funded by the National Science Foundation, Biomedical Engineering Program and research to Aid Persons with Disabilities Program and University of Wyoming, College of Engineering Undergraduate Design Project to Aid Wyoming Persons with Disabilities. Unfortunately, the tricycle did not provide the necessary features to allow him to ride the tricycle safely. For this reason the tricycle was redesigned to include many different redundant safety systems which allows the tricycle to be safe for the child’s use. Being funded by the same grant, new systems were added to the medical scooters. A panic kill switch, automatic brakes, numerous redundant velocity sensors, tip over prevention circuitry, a redesigned operating system, a battery recharge port, and other systems were added, allowing for the tricycle to provide a high level of safety. A great deal of testing and sound design practices have been taken into consideration throughout the addition of these systems. Without these improvements, the child would not have the opportunity to use the tricycle to help with his development.

Green tricycle project gets award By Edson C. Tandoc Jr. Philippine Daily Inquirer

2008-11-20T09:02:00.000+07:00

MANILA, Philippines—Helping reduce fuel consumption and pollution among tricycles plying streets in two cities in the Philippines gave an American and his group an award and almost P5 million in cash prize from a luxurious Swiss wristwatch brand which recognizes projects for the poor.

Thirty-one year-old Tim Bauer is among the five winners of the 2008 Rolex Awards for Enterprise for introducing a pioneering technology to make tricycles using two-stroke engines cleaner and more cost-efficient in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur and and Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

Rolex also cited five other projects as “associate laureates” for this year, including the technology Filipino Alexis Belonio, 48, developed to turn rice production wastes into clean and affordable cooking fuel. Belonio is getting almost P2.5 million in cash award.

The 32-year-old Rolex Awards for Enterprise supports “new and ongoing projects that demonstrate a spirit of enterprise and address pressing needs around the world, from climate change, to wildlife and habitat preservation, to cultural preservation, to providing water, food, medical supplies and education for impoverished communities.”

It has recognized more than 110 projects from 38 countries since it was launched in 1976, according to a press release sent to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, parent company of INQUIRER.net.

Instead of working for high-paying jobs in the US, Bauer, a mechanical engineer, decided to go to Asia after his graduation to promote the technology, which can reduce pollution emissions among motorcycles using two-stroke engines widely used in many countries in Asia.

For instance, there are 1.8 million tricycle drivers in the Philippines, the press release states.

Bauer said tricycle drivers “play an essential role in the social and economic fabric, but their impact on public health is disastrous.”

Two-stroke engines are cheap because they are so simple that drivers can repair them themselves, but nearly half of the fuel and oil exit two-stroke engines unburned, increasing emissions of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur oxides which pollute the air.

The Philippine government earlier sought to phase out two-stroke engine tricycles, but the plan to replace them with the cleaner four-stroke engine tricycles faced stiff objections from the tricycle drivers who could not afford the cleaner but more expensive technology.

The “direct injection kit” Bauer and his group Envirofit developed and introduced in the Philippines is partly made from locally sourced materials to keep the price affordable. It is easy to install—just about two to four hours—and not only reduces emission of polluting gases, but also substantially saves on fuel.

He chose the cities of Vigan and Puerto Princesa, known tourist attractions in the country, for his project. Starting in 2006, he also distributed a translated troubleshooting manual and conducted workshops and seminars. To help drivers afford the technology, Bauer and his team also launched a microcredit program to give out loans. Bauer travels to the Philippines almost five times a year.

There are more than 230 drivers who have adopted the kit since 2005. Bauer hopes to use his prize from the Rolex Award to replicate his project in Pakistan, India, Indonesia and Sri Lanka where millions of rickshaws, their version of tricycles, continue to operate on two-stroke engines.

“These drivers are at the base of the economic pyramid,” Bauer said. “We can improve their lives with a cylinder head, a few brackets, and, of course, hard work. This is our best reward.”

The four other winners of the top awards this year are Talal Akasheh (from Jordan ), 61, who is creating an information system about the ancient monuments of Petra; Andrew McGonigle (UK), 35, a physicist developing a new means to predict volcanic eruptions; Andrew Muir ( South Africa ), 43, who provides Aids orphans with life skills, training, and jobs; and Elsa Zaldívar (Paraguay), 48, who creates composite building materials out of plant and plastic waste to construct affordable housing.

They were awarded in a ceremony in Dubai on Tuesday.

QC tricycles to use LPG

2008-10-30T15:51:00.000+07:00

Some 24,000 tricycle units in Quezon City will be running on liquefied petroleum gas under a program which aims to hike income, curb illegal operation and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Project proponent Winston Castelo said soft loans would be extended to tricycle operators who, in the long run, would save P3,450 a month once their units were converted to LPG.

He said the move, which was supported by Rep. Nanet Castelo and Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr., would spare industry dependents from high fuel costs since LPG is 40 percent cheaper than gasoline.

The LPG kits, costing around P15,000 each, will be distributed by SKM Prince Communications through a loan facility from Radiowealth Finance Co.

The kit includes a storage tank and level gauge system installed at the rear of the tricycle unit, complete with an electro-mechanical shut-off valve, evaporator and LPG vapor air mixing unit.

Studies showed that each tricycle would save P115 daily from fuel expenses.

“This program is a win-win undertaking for both our TODAs [tricycle operators and drivers associations] and the environment,” Belmonte said. Joel M. Sy Egco

Tacloban folk want fare rollback

2008-10-23T22:17:00.000+07:00

By JENETTE FARIOLA-RUEDAS, ABS-CBN Tacloban | 10/23/2008 11:30 AM

TACLOBAN CITY - Commuters here are already complaining about the lack of a fare rollback despite several price cuts on petroleum products. They were expecting a rollback to happen after the gasoline and diesel prices went down recently.

According to the Land Transportation Office in the region, a rollback has yet to be discussed on the national level. A pending request is already at the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board's national office.

The request for a fare cut is possible in the region once it is implemented in Metro Manila and as soon as a memorandum comes from the LTFRB's headquarters.

Last week, petroleum companies implemented a price rollback for diesel and gasoline products. Another round was implemented on Thursday.

Meanwhile, tricycle drivers in Tacloban have called on the national government to grant them health maintenance cards and fuel discounts since President Arroyo have promised their Metro Manila counterparts with the same benefits.

These include Philhealth cards, a P1 per liter discount from Pilipinas Shell stations and scholarships for their children.

Tacloban's tricycle drivers said they expect to receive the same kind of benefits, too.

"Dapat kung nasimulan na yan sa Manila, kami rin dito meron. Pare-pareho lang naman kaming mga tricycledrivers. Malaking tulong na ang maibibigay nito saamin dahil wala namang kasiguruhan an buhay namin sa kalsada”, Benedicto Corilla, president of United Motorcab Drivers Association, said.

According to the Philhealth office in the region, it does not have the resources yet for the drivers because the head office has not released a memorandum regarding the matter.

as of 10/23/2008 11:30 AM

Teen student caught with stolen motorcycle

2008-10-16T19:29:00.001+07:00

October 15,2008

Virac policemen returned to its grateful owner a stolen motorcycle the lawmen recovered from a teenaged student last week in front of a local hotel.

A team led by SPO1 Salvador Aldave, Jr. brought Philip Tugay, 19, a CPIC student and resident of Rizal, Viga, to the police station after he was caught in possession of a black Honda XRM with no plate number at 11:10 P.M. of Oct. 8 in front of Rakdell Inn. The bike’s owner, Joseph Reyes, had reported the loss of the motorcycle last Aug. 12.

In another development, a resident of Cavinitan has claimed that two men on board a motorcycle robbed him of his cellular phone in Calatagan last week.

Renato Pelagio, Jr., 26, told the police that at about 1 A.M. of Oct. 10, he was at Calatagan when two men armed with a bladed weapon declared a hold-up and took his Panasonic flip-top cellphone. The two sped towards Calatagan-Tibang.

Meanwhile, a teacher at the Catanduanes National High School has complained to the police regarding the attitude of a tricycle driver who ordered her off the vehicle in favor of five other passengers.

Rosa G. Molina, 59, said that at about 6:30 A.M. of Oct. 8, she was already on board the tricycle driven by an unidentified man from San Isidro Village when the driver, seeing the prospect of five passengers flagging him down, stopped and forced her to get off in front of the Gelin residence. He told her to transfer to another passing tricycle before speeding away with the five people on board. Molina said she did not know the driver but wrote down the municipal tricycle franchise number (1562) so that the police could invite him for a confrontation at the station.

Guardian correspondent dies after glittering career

2008-10-16T19:02:00.000+07:00

Published Date: 16 October 2008
GORDON Brennan, the former cycling correspondent for the Lancaster Guardian, has died. His successor Bob Muir writes:
It is with great sadness that I have report the death of one of the stalwarts of Lancaster Cycling Club, Gordon Brennan, last Thursday after a long illness and just a couple of days after his 79th birthday.

Newer recruits to cycling locally may only know of Gordon as the President of Lancaster CC but his cycling connections go back far further and he is known nationally to a wide circle.

>> Leave a tribute to Gordon below

Gordon has been President of the LCC since 1970 but he was a member for many years before that. When he eased back from active involvement in the running of the club a few years ago, he was accorded the title of honorary life president.

Gordon was also heavily involved with the British Cycling Federation and in the 1950s he was the first chairman of the old Lakeland section which was the forerunner of the Lakes and Lancs Division.

He was Federation vice-chairman from 1970 until 1980 and chairman in 1981. He was awarded the Federation's highest honour, the Gold Badge, in 1982 for services to cycling.

From 1965 until 1982 he was the BCF representative on the International Touring Alliance (AIT) the international body governing cycle touring and ran the BCF Touring Office at Stonewell, Lancaster.

Gordon was also involved in the organisation of the Federation's annual dinner when it was held in Blackpool.

Beside all the official duties he held Gordon still found time for competitive cycling but his forte was tricycle racing.

He was contemporary with David Duffield (latterly of Eurosport TV fame) and for a while they alternately held Road Record Association records.

In 1959, Gordon set the Liverpool to Edinburgh Tricycle Record with 10hrs 54min to beat the current record by 38 minutes. He was the first and only member of the club to hold a National RRA record.

He is still the club tricycle record holder at 10, 50, 100 miles and 12 hours; the only one missing is the 25-mile mark which was taken in 1967 by Derek Wilman.

He covered 10 miles in 25:33 in 1995 and his longest record is 220.00miles for 12 hours in 1956. Also, in 1995, the year after he retired, he rode all 22 of Lancaster CC's evening 10s on Caton Road - a feat that has not been equalled since and possibly not before for a good many years.

In the 1970s he was a leading light in the famous Morecambe Weekends where I first met him.

The now defunct 'International Cycle Sport' magazine reported at the time: "The Supremo on the Prom is Gordon Brennan, of that there is no doubt, his word is law.

"I have thought once or twice while watching him fetch out the tail enders in the Devils that if they could give him horns and a tail he would even look the part as his tall figure dominates the proceedings.

"He commands the respect of all the riders to the extent that there is little or no wrangling about decisions taken on the line and heaven only knows I've seen some men talk their way into fifth or sixth places over the years but never at Morecambe."

Latterly Gordon was remembered for his leading of LCC club-runs and in particular his annual Presidents Run which he lead until well into the 1990s.

He also organised the club's annual Tourist trial, alternating with Kent Valley RC's Derek Tunstall, and the famous Freewheel Competitions.
Gordon was also the local cycling correspondent for the Lancaster Guardian for many years under the pen-name of 'Miler' until he handed the reins to me in 2003.

Gordon's achievement in the world of cycling could go on for many pages and these are but a few. Many people have expressed their admiration of Gordon over the last week.

These included Tony Sweeney, the President of Lune RCC, who said: "It never ever bothered Gordon what club you were in or what form of cycle sport you took part in, if you rode a bike you were a cyclist and that was alright by him. I don't think we shall ever see his like again."

Many great people are remembered by quotes and one of Gordon's, which he oft repeated when chairing club meetings, is "it's your club".

Lancaster Cycling Club will always be Gordon's club and I am proud to have been his club-mate.

Electric Pedal Vehicles - The Pedal Electric Tricycle

2008-10-11T19:49:00.000+07:00

By George Christodoulou

Electric Pedal Vehicles: These little things are goofier looking than meter maid vehicles but much more interesting. You will see that some of these vehicles are pretty amazing since they run on nothing but human power. The first of these Vehicles I want to discuss is one created by the HHEV ( Human Hybrid Electric Vehicle) design team called The Pedal Electric Tricycle (PET). It was created to try an lower pollution, congestion, travel times, and travel costs. It was created for small town people with the idea to make it better than biking. The idea behind this project is to create a medium between bikes and cars that will be clean, comfortable, and with cargo space convenience.

The mission of this group is to basically create a vehicle made for the road that is not a car. They believe that cars are overused and people can use a new mode of transportation that is safer for people and the environment. They are not looking to create anything that can compete with cars, just something that can be considered as a change of pace from what’s out there today.

The major players behind this 25 mile per hour machine are Matt Seitzler, Dan Golden, Chris Congleton, Eric Van Gelder, Dr. Paul Erickson, Justin Regnier. Other people also involved include Dr. Andy Burke, Professor Andy Frank, Professor Karnopp, Kurt Kornbluth, Pat Fyhrie. They are on the mission to create this perfect mixture of car and bike.

These people are doing great work for man kind. Imagine driving around in one of these things, you should be proud that you were one of the first to hear of such a vehicle. Reading some of the research on their main website, it seems that this project costs quite a bit of money so if you are interested in becoming a part of history please go over to their main site and join the cause at: http://qru.ucdavis.edu/PET.htm

George Christodoulou

If you would like to learn more information about, electric pedal vehicles
please visit, http://electricvehiclesite.com for more information, jokes, fun, news and more!

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

Fibromyalgia- Understanding Treatments For Fibromyalgia

2008-09-05T14:39:00.001+07:00

by Hailey Harris

Fibromyalgia is a chronic symptom that usually affects women above 30 but this syndrome can affect men and children too. Fibromyalgia causes pain in the joints and other parts of the body and is actually a muscular pain in the joints.

It can cause centralized pain in the spinal chord and brain, which can be misinterpreted. The joints may feel inflamed and the skin, tender. Shooting pain is experienced along with giddiness and memory fog. This muscular pain causes various other symptoms in the person. Depression, fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, extreme mood swings, restless sleeping are some of the effects of Fibromyalgia.

There is no known specific treatment for this but it can be arrested with certain medications and natural therapies. The symptoms are different in different individuals hence the treatment is to be designed accordingly. A combination of treatments can have better effect as the symptoms can be varied.

Learning about Fibromyalgia and understanding the symptoms can be the first step towards successfully treating this disease. Unfortunately, not many people are aware of this illness and can cause more problems due to the lack of knowledge. There are community support groups that help in educating patients and family on these symptoms as understanding can bring about a cure. In these help groups patients discuss their various problems related to Fibromyalgia thus making the others feel familiar and provide tips on treatment from personal experience.

Fibromyalgia patients commonly experience symptoms of stress and fatigue. This can affect everyday life and can put a strain on relationships. Since stress levels vary among patients, the treatment for stress needs to be individualized accordingly. One can reduce stress starting with simple meditation to organizing life, to avoid tension in many ways. Family and friends can be of great help as even light, smell, and a slight change in temperature can affect Fibromyalgia patients. Keeping these factors in mind the family can help work around in order to help avoid stress in the patient.

Light physical exercise can help flex the tender muscles and keep them from causing discomfort. Exercise can also improve the immune system by increasing circulation and help the person sleep better. Other than these natural methods, there are other traditional medications, which are recommended for Fibromyalgia. However, side effects make them difficult for certain sufferers.

These tricycle antidepressants take care of depression that the patient undergoes. These antidepressants also help in relieving pain thus relaxing the person and restoring good sleep. Commonly used anti depressants for fibromyalgia are amitriptyline and doxepin. Pregabalin is the first approved medication in treating fibromyalgia. Prozac can work effectively in reducing anxiety levels and improving sleep. These medicines need to be taken after consultation with the doctor.

Localized anesthesia can be taken in the form of injections for shooting and severe pains. Flexeril a muscle relaxant can help relieve the pain in the joints due to the tender muscles. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also be taken in specified doses to reduce the pain. Narcotic and steroid pain relievers, even though they may bring temporary relief, can be addictive and hence are not recommended. Acupuncture has shown effective relief in patients when treated for specific problems. It is believed that certain forms of needle therapy assist patients in recovery.

Once the patient understands the symptoms it will be easier for him to handle the different aspects of his condition. Fibromyalgia is not fatal and hence going about it the right way can bring relief and cure. The patient must learn to tolerate the pain as it might other increase anxiety and create further sleep disorders. Going in for physiotherapy can also help in reducing the pain and muscle tension. Being active is best to keep the muscle tension in control. Magnetic therapy can be effective for relieving pain and may be the perfect cure to the syndrome. Massage therapy works well in relaxing the tensed muscles.

Some patients also respond to hormone therapy, growth hormones can be effective in pain relief and further healing. Anti oxidants can reduce the damage of free radicals and improve general health. All these treatments are to be combined effectively and tailored for each individual benefit. There is no particular treatment for fibromyalgia, but a combination of the above-mentioned therapies with medication can prove very effective.

Taking a natural approach to fibromyalgia seems to be preferable because there aren't the side effects of all of these medications. Work with what your body tells you.

About the Author

Hailey Harris is an expert in dealing with Fibromyalgia after suffering for more than 10 years with health problems. She is now symptom free and living a pain free life. She developed Ridfibromyalgia.com found at http://www.ridfibromyalgia.com to help others learn to do the same. To receive tons of info, tips, and healing strategies for free visit http://www.ridfibromyalgia.com/how.html .

All Aboard! The Polar Express 4-D Experience Joins Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival Lineup

2008-08-02T15:17:00.000+07:00

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Polar Express 4-D Experience pulls into Dollywood’s 19th annual Smoky Mountain Christmas festival Nov. 8, 2008 through Jan. 3, 2009, in the theme park’s Imagination Cinema.

“This Christmas, I’m inviting families to take a spectacular holiday journey where dreams become real, and everybody knows I dream bigger than just about anybody else,” Dolly Parton said. “On The Polar Express 4-D Experience, all you have to do is believe, and I sure do!”

This holiday season…What if there is a place beyond your imagination and to get there all you have to do is BELIEVE! Dollywood guests are invited to come journey to the North Pole where dreams become real and all of their senses come alive in this magical 4-D Experience. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on an epic journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. The Polar Express 4-D Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, and includes 3-D and 4-D effects that will make you BELIEVE.

SimEx-Iwerks is the worldwide exclusive distributor of The Polar Express 4-D Experience.

“The Polar Express is by far the finest magical cinematic experience of our lifetime,” Mark Cornell, SimEx-Iwerks Vice President, Attraction Development said. “This iconic film is further brought to life with the perfected use of our own 4-D Special FX technology, and makes for an unforgettable multi-sensory adventure, leaving all who see with hair-raising goose-bumps! Upon your arrival at the North Pole…it actually begins to snow inside the 4-D Special FX Theater and when the conductor sings “Hot Chocolate” and the dancing waiters begin to pour, the audience can smell the delightful aroma of every cocoa cup!! The state-of-the-art 3-D Digital projection system allows you to see images virtually leap off the screen and when combined with 4-D FX, a blend of realism and fantasy unlike anything seen before is impeccably delivered. A must see for the whole family!!”

In addition to a winter wonderland of more than four million holiday lights, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas festival includes a lineup of award-winning entertainment. Dollywood’s Babes in Toyland, highlighted by the march of the 21 toy soldiers and a spectacular surprise finale, won the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Honorable Mention for 2007 Best Overall Production. Rounding out the Christmastime entertainment lineup are Christmas in the Smokies, ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, An Appalachian Christmas, Christmas with the Kingdom Heirs, The Victorian Melodies, O’ Holy Night, Carol of the Trees plus the nightly Lighted Christmas Parade. All shows are included with park admission.

Families also can explore Santa’s Workshop, a magnificent 500-square-foot home away from home featuring larger-than-life-sized toys including “Jumbo the Elephant,” which measures nine-feet-tall; a seven-foot-tall sailboat; a five-foot-tall tricycle; an eight-foot-tall dollhouse; a six-foot-tall View·Master® that displays a variety of holiday images and more. Dollywood is a 130-acre family adventure park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and operates mid-March through Jan. 3, 2009. Dollywood offers more than 40 rides and attractions; award-winning live entertainment featuring country, bluegrass, gospel and mountain music; and a dozen crafters authentic to the East Tennessee region. For more information, call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD or visit dollywood.com. Operating days and hours vary.

Media: Contact Dollywood Public Relations Manager Pete Owens at 865-428-9486, 865-755-7972 or email at powens@dollywood.com for B-roll, photography and more information. Check the Dollywood Press Room at www.Dollywood.com/PR/Press.asp for updates and new images.

About SimEx-Iwerks

SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment is a private company based in Toronto and Los Angeles. SimEx-Iwerks first projects were the legendary Tour of the Universe created by Moses Znaimer at the CN Tower, Toronto, which was the world’s first Simulator-Based Attraction. We trade under the name “SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment” since the merger of SimEx (Toronto) with Iwerks (Los Angeles) in 2002.

SimEx-Iwerks is the leading entertainment company specializing is 3-D and 4-D cinematic experiences. We have installed over 300 Attractions in over 40 countries and are the largest distributor of 2-D / 3-D / 4-D Attraction films. With over 125 titles (see film Library). Our passion is the delivery of highly immersive motion picture presentations that use proprietary 3-D Projection, 4-D Special Effects, Motion Seating and Blockbuster films. SimEx-Iwerks is respected for its worldwide client support and the extraordinary impact of its Attractions.

Recent SimEx-Iwerks clients include National Aquarium Baltimore, Cincinnati Zoo, Landry’s Kemah Boardwalk, Universal Studios; Six Flags; Busch Entertainment; Warner Bros; Paramount Parks; Stone Mountain, Volkswagen; Ogden Entertainment; Pier 39 San Francisco; COSI; Reuben H. Fleet Science Center; Detroit Zoo; San Diego Wild Animal Park; National Museum of Science & Industry, London (UK); Osaka Maritime Museum; Singapore Science Centre; Shanghai Film Studios; Shanghai Scienceland; The Beijing Planetarium and Dalian Ownar Cineplex.

For more information, please visit our website at www.simex-iwerks.com.

About Warner Bros. Consumer Products

Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.

About The Polar Express

Castle Rock Entertainment Presents, in Association with Shangri-La Entertainment, a Playtone / ImageMovers / Golden Mean Production of a Robert Zemeckis Film: Tom Hanks in The Polar Express. Directed by Robert Zemeckis from a screenplay by Zemeckis & William Broyles, Jr., the film is produced by Steve Starkey, Robert Zemeckis, Gary Goetzman and William Teitler and is based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg. Tom Hanks, Jack Rapke and Chris Van Allsburg are the executive producers. The production team includes directors of photography Don Burgess, A.S.C. and Robert Presley; production designers Rick Carter and Doug Chiang; and editors Jeremiah O’Driscoll & R. Orlando Duenas. Senior visual effects supervisors are Ken Ralston and Jerome Chen. Co-producer is Steven Boyd. Music score is by Alan Silvestri, and original songs by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri. The Polar Express is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. Soundtrack album on Warner Sunset/Reprise Records. This film is rated G by the MPAA. For more information, please visit www.polarexpressmovie.com.

THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

(s08)

Contacts

Dollywood
Pete Owens, Public Relations Manager
865-428-9486 or 865-755-7972
powens@dollywood.com

CORRECTING and REPLACING Valley Presbyterian Hospital Heals ''Tour of Hope'' Cyclist

2008-07-30T13:34:00.001+07:00

June 30, 2008 05:25 PM Eastern Daylight Time

CORRECTION...by Valley Presbyterian Hospital

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Please replace release with the following revised version. Last graph of original release has been deleted.

The corrected release reads:

VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL HEALS ''TOUR OF HOPE'' CYCLIST

Lee Fitzgerald is someone you want to meet.

In fact, after spending just a few minutes with him, you'd probably be inspired to follow in his footsteps. That is, if you could keep up with him.

At fifteen, Lee Fitzgerald was paralyzed from the waist down, when a truck flipped over and landed on his back. Faced with a crushed spine, Lee was told he would never walk again, nor be able to father children. Lee proved them wrong, fighting through pain and physical setbacks, to go from wheelchair to crutches to cane … to long-distance cyclist!

And now, at age 66, Dr. Fitzgerald (he has a doctorate in clinical psychology) is embarking upon his greatest journey yet … a cross-country tricycle trek, from Los Angeles to New York City, dubbed the "Tour of Hope," where he plans to raise money to feed hundreds of disadvantaged children in America and no doubt inspire millions more across the country.

During his recovery from paralysis, Lee discovered inner reserves of determination and grit, which helped him overcome his personal adversity. A gifted equestrian before the accident, he defied doctors and climbed right back, relearning how to balance, grip with his good leg, and eventually ride. (He credits his stallion "Faratez” and support from his friend, Dwayne Bower, as the key to his recovery.) After numerous surgeries, intensive physical therapy, and sheer determination, he managed to regain movement in his legs, which ultimately allowed him to get back on his feet — not to mention a bike.

Unfortunately, the many operations left him with a left leg shorter than the other, which over time caused hip degeneration and constant pain. Yet through it all, Lee became renowned as a long-distance cyclist, making historic treks across Death Valley, up and down the California coast, to Vegas and back — not letting anything slow him down until about a year ago, when the pain grew to be unbearable. That’s when he met Dr. Huddleston.

Dr. Herbert D. Huddleston, M.D., Medical Director at the Valley Hip & Knee Institute at Valley Presbyterian Hospital, performed Lee’s hip replacement surgery that successfully remedied the degeneration. But he was also able to reconfigure Lee’s leg bones to make both legs the same length. Lee considers what Dr. Huddleston did "a miracle." For the first time since age 15, he was able to go barefoot and walk without dragging his foot and, be able to walk hand-in-hand down the street with his fiancée April Rogers.

Lee’s story is an inspiration unto itself. But as a gifted communicator — Lee was a successful recording artist, with two hit singles under his belt, and is currently the host of his own cable TV Show, The Dr. Lee Fitzgerald Show — he reaches 1.5 million people with his homespun humor, and personal message of triumph over adversity.

We invite you to meet this remarkable individual. Learn more about Lee’s story, and how, through the help of a gifted surgeon, he is able to spread his message of inspiration coast to coast.

One more thing. The part about not being able to father a child? Lee has a daughter and a son, and six grandchildren.

For more information about Valley Presbyterian Hospital, please visit www.valleypres.org or contact Alana Beyer by phone at 619-925-2236 or via email: alana.beyer@sagon-phior.com.

Contacts

Alana Beyer
Sagon-Phior
619-925-2236
alana.beyer@sagon-phior.com

All Aboard! The Polar Express 4-D Experience Joins Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival Lineup

2008-07-30T13:25:00.001+07:00

July 28, 2008 03:05 PM Eastern Daylight Time

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Polar Express 4-D Experience pulls into Dollywood’s 19th annual Smoky Mountain Christmas festival Nov. 8, 2008 through Jan. 3, 2009, in the theme park’s Imagination Cinema.

“This Christmas, I’m inviting families to take a spectacular holiday journey where dreams become real, and everybody knows I dream bigger than just about anybody else,” Dolly Parton said. “On The Polar Express 4-D Experience, all you have to do is believe, and I sure do!”

This holiday season…What if there is a place beyond your imagination and to get there all you have to do is BELIEVE! Dollywood guests are invited to come journey to the North Pole where dreams become real and all of their senses come alive in this magical 4-D Experience. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on an epic journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. The Polar Express 4-D Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, and includes 3-D and 4-D effects that will make you BELIEVE.

SimEx-Iwerks is the worldwide exclusive distributor of The Polar Express 4-D Experience.

“The Polar Express is by far the finest magical cinematic experience of our lifetime,” Mark Cornell, SimEx-Iwerks Vice President, Attraction Development said. “This iconic film is further brought to life with the perfected use of our own 4-D Special FX technology, and makes for an unforgettable multi-sensory adventure, leaving all who see with hair-raising goose-bumps! Upon your arrival at the North Pole…it actually begins to snow inside the 4-D Special FX Theater and when the conductor sings “Hot Chocolate” and the dancing waiters begin to pour, the audience can smell the delightful aroma of every cocoa cup!! The state-of-the-art 3-D Digital projection system allows you to see images virtually leap off the screen and when combined with 4-D FX, a blend of realism and fantasy unlike anything seen before is impeccably delivered. A must see for the whole family!!”

In addition to a winter wonderland of more than four million holiday lights, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas festival includes a lineup of award-winning entertainment. Dollywood’s Babes in Toyland, highlighted by the march of the 21 toy soldiers and a spectacular surprise finale, won the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Honorable Mention for 2007 Best Overall Production. Rounding out the Christmastime entertainment lineup are Christmas in the Smokies, ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, An Appalachian Christmas, Christmas with the Kingdom Heirs, The Victorian Melodies, O’ Holy Night, Carol of the Trees plus the nightly Lighted Christmas Parade. All shows are included with park admission.

Families also can explore Santa’s Workshop, a magnificent 500-square-foot home away from home featuring larger-than-life-sized toys including “Jumbo the Elephant,” which measures nine-feet-tall; a seven-foot-tall sailboat; a five-foot-tall tricycle; an eight-foot-tall dollhouse; a six-foot-tall View·Master® that displays a variety of holiday images and more. Dollywood is a 130-acre family adventure park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and operates mid-March through Jan. 3, 2009. Dollywood offers more than 40 rides and attractions; award-winning live entertainment featuring country, bluegrass, gospel and mountain music; and a dozen crafters authentic to the East Tennessee region. For more information, call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD or visit dollywood.com. Operating days and hours vary.

Media: Contact Dollywood Public Relations Manager Pete Owens at 865-428-9486, 865-755-7972 or email at powens@dollywood.com for B-roll, photography and more information. Check the Dollywood Press Room at www.Dollywood.com/PR/Press.asp for updates and new images.

About SimEx-Iwerks

SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment is a private company based in Toronto and Los Angeles. SimEx-Iwerks first projects were the legendary Tour of the Universe created by Moses Znaimer at the CN Tower, Toronto, which was the world’s first Simulator-Based Attraction. We trade under the name “SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment” since the merger of SimEx (Toronto) with Iwerks (Los Angeles) in 2002.

SimEx-Iwerks is the leading entertainment company specializing is 3-D and 4-D cinematic experiences. We have installed over 300 Attractions in over 40 countries and are the largest distributor of 2-D / 3-D / 4-D Attraction films. With over 125 titles (see film Library). Our passion is the delivery of highly immersive motion picture presentations that use proprietary 3-D Projection, 4-D Special Effects, Motion Seating and Blockbuster films. SimEx-Iwerks is respected for its worldwide client support and the extraordinary impact of its Attractions.

Recent SimEx-Iwerks clients include National Aquarium Baltimore, Cincinnati Zoo, Landry’s Kemah Boardwalk, Universal Studios; Six Flags; Busch Entertainment; Warner Bros; Paramount Parks; Stone Mountain, Volkswagen; Ogden Entertainment; Pier 39 San Francisco; COSI; Reuben H. Fleet Science Center; Detroit Zoo; San Diego Wild Animal Park; National Museum of Science & Industry, London (UK); Osaka Maritime Museum; Singapore Science Centre; Shanghai Film Studios; Shanghai Scienceland; The Beijing Planetarium and Dalian Ownar Cineplex.

For more information, please visit our website at www.simex-iwerks.com.

About Warner Bros. Consumer Products

Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.

About The Polar Express

Castle Rock Entertainment Presents, in Association with Shangri-La Entertainment, a Playtone / ImageMovers / Golden Mean Production of a Robert Zemeckis Film: Tom Hanks in The Polar Express. Directed by Robert Zemeckis from a screenplay by Zemeckis & William Broyles, Jr., the film is produced by Steve Starkey, Robert Zemeckis, Gary Goetzman and William Teitler and is based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg. Tom Hanks, Jack Rapke and Chris Van Allsburg are the executive producers. The production team includes directors of photography Don Burgess, A.S.C. and Robert Presley; production designers Rick Carter and Doug Chiang; and editors Jeremiah O’Driscoll & R. Orlando Duenas. Senior visual effects supervisors are Ken Ralston and Jerome Chen. Co-producer is Steven Boyd. Music score is by Alan Silvestri, and original songs by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri. The Polar Express is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. Soundtrack album on Warner Sunset/Reprise Records. This film is rated G by the MPAA. For more information, please visit www.polarexpressmovie.com.

THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

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Contacts

Dollywood
Pete Owens, Public Relations Manager
865-428-9486 or 865-755-7972
powens@dollywood.com

When To Start Teaching Your Baby (1)

2008-07-28T02:05:00.000+07:00

By Roy Thomsitt

When is it that I should start teaching my baby? That is a question that may come to mind for many first time parents; other parents may never consider the question at all, and just leave things to evolve naturally.

In a way, that is an unnecessary question as, whether you like it or not and whether you mean to or not, you begin teaching your baby while it is still in the womb, and then continue through its early years, teenage years, and even into adulthood. So, perhaps it is better to rephrase that question slightly to "when should I consciously start teaching my baby?"

Even with the rephrased question, the answer is the same: while the baby is in the womb. How can that be?

While the baby is in the womb it starts to learn about its environment after about six months of pregnancy, when it is capable of hearing external sounds. Of course, it is aware of its internal environment earlier than that, but there is little you can do to enhance that. But when it comes to the external environment, you are in a position to have some influence even from that early stage of development.

What Can You Teach Your Baby In The Womb?

With the baby in the womb there is clearly a very limited scope for teaching as such. However, you can provide additional stimulation that will form an important part of their learning at that stage. You can provide many hints as to what the outside environment is like, in a way that sets a good foundation for their feeling of love and security.

The main external awareness of a baby in the womb is sound. If you can make the external sounds comforting and welcoming then that will help the baby more than you may think. Music is a proven stimulation to babies, especially classical music; a daily dose of Mozart will stimulate the baby's brain and senses. With any luck, they will become a musical talent, but that is not an issue at this stage of their development.

You do not, of course, have to restrict her to classical music. Whatever music you like, just turn the volume up a bit more than usual to ensure she hears it. The sound will be muffled, but by the time baby is born, she will be used to your musical tastes.
Your aim should be to make the outside environment familiar to the baby. Most of that will happen naturally, and she will become used to the daily sounds, such as vacuum cleaner, liquidizer, lawnmower and other domestic noises that are penetrating.

Our baby daughter was born in the Philippines, where our usual form of transport is a tricycle. I do not think it a coincidence that, once she was born, she was contented with the noise of a tricycle; and they are noisy here, I assure you, especially outside the womb! However noisy the tricycle, she would always be asleep within a minute or two, and even now at 20 months is particularly relaxed on a deafening tricycle.

If you want to insist on having a most important sound in the womb, then it must be the voices of the parents. Getting to know the voice of mum and dad will come naturally, but dad especially can get up close and talk to the baby in the womb. It will not talk back of course, but you can rest assured, if she is awake, she will be intrigued by your up close and personal voice. It is something I did every evening with Saffron. That also had the effect of keeping her awake as long as possible during the evening, so she was less restless at night. That can be very helpful for mum to get a good night's sleep.

Another external stimulation which I never learnt about for my now grown up children, and that is light. This can be even more useful for keeping baby awake in the evening. If you take a powerful flashlight, switch it on, and hold it close to mum's tummy, the baby in the womb will respond to it. I must say I thought it a silly idea, until the then unborn Saffron started moving every time the light was switched on. So, the flashlight became another tool in the "keep baby awake in the evening" campaign to stop mum being kicked so much during the night.

Maybe Saffron did not appreciate my "keep her awake" tactics. She was probably wondering "who is this guy keeping me awake all the time; doesn't he realise I want to get some sleep?"

However, she does seem to have done well on it. She has slept like a log all night, every night apart from one, since she was just a few months' old. The odd night? Apparently, a bad dream at 11 pm. A quick cuddle and words of reassurance, and she was back to sleep again.

Whether that has any connection to her in-the-womb experiences, I cannot say for sure. But I will definitely be using the same tactics again next time, if we are blessed with a baby sister or brother for her.

This teaching baby article was written by Roy Thomsitt, owner author of the Bouncing New Baby website, where you will find many other helpful articles on topics such as baby mobiles to continue baby's education.

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

Energtek Signs Natural Gas Agreement with PNOC-EC, Implementing the World's First Commercial ANG Project

2008-07-28T00:30:00.000+07:00

Energtek Initiating First Phase of 500,000 Vehicle Natural Gas Conversion
Project Requested by the Filipino Government

VALLEY STREAM, New York, July 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Energtek
Inc. (OTCBB: EGTK), a world leader in the development of Adsorbed Natural
Gas (ANG) technology, today announced that it has signed a purchase
contract with the Philippine National Oil Company - Exploration Company
(PNOC-EC) for natural gas extracted from the San Antonio stranded gas well
in the Filipino province of Isabela. The purchase contract enables Energtek
to implement its business model as a commercial distributor of natural gas
in emerging markets across Southeast Asia. This enables the first phase of
the world's first commercial ANG project.

Energtek employs proprietary hi-tech storage technology to supply
natural gas to small vehicles. The first phase of the project calls for the
vehicle conversion and ongoing supply of natural gas to 3,000
three-wheelers ("tricycles") in Isabela. Revenues from vehicle equipment
sales from this initiative are expected to gross more than $1.2 million,
and ongoing natural gas sales are projected to exceed $2 million annually.

The Isabela project is the first part of Energtek's plan to convert
over 50,000 tricycles during the next 18 months, which would generate
projected revenues of over $20 million in vehicle equipment sales and $40
million in ongoing annual gas sales. Implementation of this plan is
primarily dependent on the timetable for attainment of sufficient natural
gas supplies.

Energtek aims to fulfill the government's request to convert over
500,000 three-wheelers within the next three to four years.

"The Filipino government under the leadership of President Gloria M.
Arroyo has recognized the need to urgently reduce dependence on oil and
gasoline," said Executive Secretary of the Philippines, Hon. Eduardo R.
Ermita. "The government is more than glad to begin converting a million
vehicles to operate on ANG as soon as possible. We are pleased to work
together with Energtek to achieve our goal of providing a clean and
cost-effective solution for small vehicle drivers who are suffering from
the rising costs of gasoline."

Energtek has invested in equipment and infrastructure necessary for the
project and has intensified efforts to receive all necessary
certifications. In addition, Energtek is currently engaged in advanced
negotiations for natural gas from a stranded gas well in the Filipino
province of Cebu.

There are approximately 1.5 million tricycles running on gasoline that
would be banned from operation by the government due to the massive
pollution generated by their engines. Energtek's Natural Gas conversion
system resolves the problem of harmful emissions, and presents an
economically beneficial alternative for drivers who would otherwise be
forced to discard their vehicles.

Natural Gas can be provided to drivers for dramatically less than the
cost of equivalent gasoline. Its use as a motor fuel drastically reduces
harmful vehicle emissions. "Today, a local driver in the Philippines can
spend $1500 or more per year on gasoline," said Lev Zaidenberg, CEO of
Energtek. "Energtek's proprietary ANG technology can enable drivers to use
a clean and abundant motor fuel that reduces annual fuel costs by several
hundred dollars. These fuel savings can increase local residents' working
income by as much as forty percent."

About Energtek

Energtek develops and applies proprietary ANG technology to provide
complete well-to-wheel pipeless Natural Gas supply solutions to fleets of
small vehicles and industrial consumers. Energtek's Natural Gas solutions
reduce pollution and alleviate consumer energy costs. Energtek provides a
profitable alternative motor fuel solution for the large market of
low-income 2- and 3-wheel vehicle drivers in Asia. Energtek operates
subsidiaries in North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. To learn
more about the benefits of ANG Technology, visit http://www.energtek.com

About ANG

Adsorbed Natural Gas (ANG) technology enables hi-tech and
cost-effective storage of Natural Gas, by maximizing the quantities of gas
stored in a tank. ANG greatly reduces the infrastructure, fueling, and
energy costs of supply solutions to consumers where no pipeline or
refueling infrastructure is present. ANG enables new markets of motor
vehicle fleets and large commercial consumers, to benefit from
environmentally friendly and affordable Natural Gas.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of
Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking
statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current
expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance
of Energtek and its technologies. Readers are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions
and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements,
prospective investors should review carefully various risks and
uncertainties identified in this release and matters set in Energtek's SEC
filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ
materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

Contacts:
Alex Traiman
Tel: +1-516-717-1627
IR@energtek.com

Healthy and Safe Exercises for Children by Megan Hazel

2008-07-27T11:41:00.000+07:00

It's important that children get a lot of exercise. While it is easy to keep them occupied with television, DVDs, video games, and a playroom full of toys, it is not always so easy to get them moving. Varying the types of exercises you want the children to do and treating exercise as play time will help get them up in motion. Make sure that the exercises you choose are age appropriate and that safety is always a priority when exercising.

Here are some healthy and safe exercises for children that any adult can join in on:

Bicycle riding - Whether on a tricycle or a mountain bike, children love to hop on their bikes and take off. Bicycle riding is good cardiovascular exercise and also works several muscle groups.

Keeping it safe: Children should always wear a proper fitting helmet when riding, and young children should ride on sidewalks or bicycle paths, not in the street. Teach older children the rules of the road when they begin to ride on the streets and do not allow them to ride at night without reflectors on their bike and proper reflective clothing.

Dancing - Children love to dance, and it is a great form of exercise. It takes no special equipment, just some music with a great beat. As long as there is a radio or CD player available, it's easy to get kids moving to the music.

Keeping it safe: There are few things you need to do keep dancing safe. Give children a large enough space to move in so they don't bump into things and hurt themselves and let them go wild.

Yoga - Here is an exercise that seems very adult to children, and since kids love to feel grown up, they like to do yoga. It is a simple exercise to do in the home and there is no need for any special equipment or clothing. Most libraries will have yoga for kids' books or DVD's so it's not even necessary to spend any money. This is an especially good exercise for kids who have trouble calming down or falling to sleep. A little yoga right before bedtime can calm them down and help them fall asleep more easily while giving them some much needed exercise.

Keeping it safe: Make sure that the children are doing yoga exercises that are specifically designed for kids. Sure, many kids are flexible, but some of the more advanced yoga poses can be harmful for children.

Walking - Another fabulous exercise that almost anyone can do that costs almost nothing. This is a great exercise for children that are struggling with weight problems. For children who are severely overweight and struggle with other exercises, walking can be the perfect solution. They can start out with a short walk around the block and work their way up to longer walks each day as they become more fit.

Keeping it safe: Proper walking shoes with good support should be worn. Also, children should be taught to stick to the sidewalk or a walking path and never to walk in the street. Younger children should always be accompanied by an adult and older children who are ready to go out for a walk by themselves should stick to an agreed upon route.

Playing Ball - Kicking a soccer ball, throwing a Frisbee, taking shots on the basketball court, or running the bases in a kickball game are all forms of exercise. Grab a ball (or Frisbee) and take children in the backyard or to a park for some games that also double as excellent exercise.

Keeping it safe: If you have got children of different ages playing together, keep it well supervised to make sure that the older children don not hurt the younger ones. Also, try to make sure that everyone is getting a fair turn.

Jump Ropes and Hula Hoops - These are great exercises that really get children's hearts pumping and improve their coordination all at the same time. The cost for equipment is very minimal and these exercises can be done outdoors or indoors if space permits. They are also very fun games and activities involving jump rope and hula hoops that most children enjoy.

Keeping it safe: Keep a safe distance between children as they jump rope or hula-hoop to ensure that they do not bump into each other and get hurt.

Children who get regular exercise have advantages over those who do not. They have more stamina, fewer health problems, better self-esteem, and an ability to control their weight more easily. So turn off the television, power down the computer, hide the handheld gaming devices, and then encourage children to get more exercise while providing them with a safe and fun environment in which to do so.

About the Author

About Author:
Megan Hazel is a freelance writer who writes about health and fitness topics, similar to what consumers read in Fitness Magazine

How To Age Your Mom Before Her Time by B. Pulsifer

2008-07-26T19:45:00.000+07:00

I was just a normal little boy, happy, fun loving, always erring on the good side of life. So, why did my mother say that I aged her before her time? What did I do?

Maybe it was because of my little incident on my tricycle one beautiful summer day. There was so much fun to be had zooming down the sloping sidewalk in front of our house. I suppose that was when I first learned about sidewalk maintenance issues facing most towns or cities. Well, it was a great day as I zoomed ever faster down the slope with the wind gently caressing my face, with arms held out straight, no hands, and paddling like a demon. As I flew through the air in a milli-second, I landed ungracefully upon my tiny chin hurtling in circles before coming to a rest. So, who put that stupid hole in the sidewalk? Those memories are still vivid to this day while stretched unceremoniously upon the kitchen table being stitched by our local doctor. Could that have been what mom meant?

Or, maybe it was that time at the end of the school year that I was cycling down the town hill merrily on my way to the school picnic. Who needs hands on the handle bars? Who needs to worry about zipping through the only cross road in town? There was never anybody traveling along my road, interrupting the pleasure of the moment, or placing their car in my path. What a piece of work that guy was for sticking his passenger door right in front of my front wheel in order to abruptly stop my momentum. Hum. How does one end up on that cold, unforgiving pavement anyway? So what that he screeched to a stop and picked me up showing shock and concern at the same time. I didn't ask him to use the road when I needed to fly through the intersection. So, who told him to follow me home and tell my mother that he hit her little boy?

On the other hand, maybe it was that time when I innocently bounded up the centre hall stairs turning my swift little legs to maneuver around the landing on my way to my bedroom retreat to play. I can't help it if somebody left the step ladder there so it conveniently came crashing down on my head leaving me permanently scarred with an extra hole in my head. I think there must have been a conspiracy to get me.

It really wasn't my fault that I missed three months of school laying in a special bed set up in our living room. Big deal; anyone can get pneumonia that requires their mother to bring them that dreaded consommÃ© soup, or glasses of water, or mustard plasters twice a day. I wasn't about to give up the ghost hacking and coughing, sweating with fever, and unable to move a muscle because of weakness. So, what was all the fuss about?

Mom, are you sure you just didn't make it all up? I didn't do anything; I was just a normal, fun loving, good little boy, right?

About the Author

Visit Baby Boy Names - Find names that are unique and unusual names for your new son, as well as traditional names and the top 100 baby boy names. Plus take time to read our baby poems and quotes. http://www.babyboynames4u.com