The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder

The Maremma Sheepdog is native to the Italian Alps. This is a breed that has an extraordinary capability of working in the higher altitudes. For many hundreds of years, the life of the sheep, the shepherds and the Maremma dog that guarded the flock was structured on the seasons. From June to October the flocks would be moved to the high country in the mountains of Abruzzi and from October to June they would go down to the plains and rolling pastures of Maremma. The job of the Maremma historically has been that of a livestock protector and herding dog, being of great value to the Italian peasants as they moved their flocks of mountain goats and sheep through the high alpine pastures, not only herding but also protecting the flock from predators. The Maremma has the capability of working independently as a flock protector and is noted for its high intelligence. A few of the dogs stayed behind as farm protectors and gradually the Maremma also became known as the large white dog who frequented the fine homes of Tuscany as a companion and watchdog.

The Maremma is a large white dog with profuse and abundant coat. One might confuse the dog with the Pyrenees or the Kuvasz, excerpt that the head of the Maremma is much larger in proportion to the body and in fact is very like that of the Polar bear, conical in shape and massive. In general, of the large white dogs that are the herding dogs of central Europe and the Alps, the Maremma is probably the breed that exhibits the most independent thinking and is one of the dogs considered to be a very protective dog, working in the dual role as flock guard and herder. The Maremma is a large breed, standing 24 inches at the withers, with a heavy coat that is all white with perhaps a shade of ivory or biscuit on the ears. The coat needs to be regularly groomed. The correct coat should be weather resistant, providing protection from the sun and the cold, this is a dog that should not be shaved.

The Maremma has always been around people, though its existence has been solitary it is a breed that will not do well without a human to protect or work alongside. This is a dog that strives to work for its master but also can be a difficult dog for simple obedience commands, since it is a "thinker" and will become bored with repetition. They are extremely loyal, considered to be a one person dog, devoted and protective yet proud and dignified. This is a dog that requires a knowledgeable owner, since it is not inclined to be subservient but is more likely to be somewhat stubborn and strong willed.

The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder   The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder   The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder   

The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder

The Maremma Sheepdog is native to the Italian Alps. This is a breed that has an extraordinary capability of working in the higher altitudes. For many hundreds of years, the life of the sheep, the shepherds and the Maremma dog that guarded the flock was structured on the seasons. From June to October the flocks would be moved to the high country in the mountains of Abruzzi and from October to June they would go down to the plains and rolling pastures of Maremma. The job of the Maremma historically has been that of a livestock protector and herding dog, being of great value to the Italian peasants as they moved their flocks of mountain goats and sheep through the high alpine pastures, not only herding but also protecting the flock from predators. The Maremma has the capability of working independently as a flock protector and is noted for its high intelligence. A few of the dogs stayed behind as farm protectors and gradually the Maremma also became known as the large white dog who frequented the fine homes of Tuscany as a companion and watchdog.

The Maremma is a large white dog with profuse and abundant coat. One might confuse the dog with the Pyrenees or the Kuvasz, excerpt that the head of the Maremma is much larger in proportion to the body and in fact is very like that of the Polar bear, conical in shape and massive. In general, of the large white dogs that are the herding dogs of central Europe and the Alps, the Maremma is probably the breed that exhibits the most independent thinking and is one of the dogs considered to be a very protective dog, working in the dual role as flock guard and herder. The Maremma is a large breed, standing 24 inches at the withers, with a heavy coat that is all white with perhaps a shade of ivory or biscuit on the ears. The coat needs to be regularly groomed. The correct coat should be weather resistant, providing protection from the sun and the cold, this is a dog that should not be shaved.

The Maremma has always been around people, though its existence has been solitary it is a breed that will not do well without a human to protect or work alongside. This is a dog that strives to work for its master but also can be a difficult dog for simple obedience commands, since it is a "thinker" and will become bored with repetition. They are extremely loyal, considered to be a one person dog, devoted and protective yet proud and dignified. This is a dog that requires a knowledgeable owner, since it is not inclined to be subservient but is more likely to be somewhat stubborn and strong willed.

The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder   The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder   The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder   

The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder

The Maremma Sheepdog is native to the Italian Alps. This is a breed that has an extraordinary capability of working in the higher altitudes. For many hundreds of years, the life of the sheep, the shepherds and the Maremma dog that guarded the flock was structured on the seasons. From June to October the flocks would be moved to the high country in the mountains of Abruzzi and from October to June they would go down to the plains and rolling pastures of Maremma. The job of the Maremma historically has been that of a livestock protector and herding dog, being of great value to the Italian peasants as they moved their flocks of mountain goats and sheep through the high alpine pastures, not only herding but also protecting the flock from predators. The Maremma has the capability of working independently as a flock protector and is noted for its high intelligence. A few of the dogs stayed behind as farm protectors and gradually the Maremma also became known as the large white dog who frequented the fine homes of Tuscany as a companion and watchdog.

The Maremma is a large white dog with profuse and abundant coat. One might confuse the dog with the Pyrenees or the Kuvasz, excerpt that the head of the Maremma is much larger in proportion to the body and in fact is very like that of the Polar bear, conical in shape and massive. In general, of the large white dogs that are the herding dogs of central Europe and the Alps, the Maremma is probably the breed that exhibits the most independent thinking and is one of the dogs considered to be a very protective dog, working in the dual role as flock guard and herder. The Maremma is a large breed, standing 24 inches at the withers, with a heavy coat that is all white with perhaps a shade of ivory or biscuit on the ears. The coat needs to be regularly groomed. The correct coat should be weather resistant, providing protection from the sun and the cold, this is a dog that should not be shaved.

The Maremma has always been around people, though its existence has been solitary it is a breed that will not do well without a human to protect or work alongside. This is a dog that strives to work for its master but also can be a difficult dog for simple obedience commands, since it is a "thinker" and will become bored with repetition. They are extremely loyal, considered to be a one person dog, devoted and protective yet proud and dignified. This is a dog that requires a knowledgeable owner, since it is not inclined to be subservient but is more likely to be somewhat stubborn and strong willed.

The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder   The Maremma: Alpine Sheep Herder   

Marketing With Podcasting

Podcasting - audio programs distributed online - are increasing being used in place of or as a supplement to a blog or newsletter as a marketing tool.

Why should you consider creating a podcast? Three reasons:

Traditional broadcasting or advertising by radio or television is very expensive - out of reach to many small businesses. It is also hit and miss - if your target audience isn't listening when your advertisement runs, you've missed them. Additionally, these media formats are rapidly losing market share to online media.

It is becoming increasingly difficult to reach customers by email. Even legitimate email can disappear  forever into the receiver's spam filter. Podcasts distributed by RSS bypass email entirely.

People are becoming skeptical of obvious marketing messages. By creating a podcast of useful and entertaining information, you are building trust with your audience. You are giving them a chance to get to know, like and trust you in a very risk-free way. And because podcasts allows listeners to hear your voice, you stop being an anonymous business and become a living, breathing person.

What should you include in your podcast?

Offer news, updates and insights about your industry. Try interviewing industry experts, particularly ones not from your company. Explain how new technology will impact your customers. Warn them of legislative changes. Let them be the first to know of new trends. Keeping your audience informed about what's new can position you as a trusted expert and advisor.

Podcasts that offer tips to make your customers' lives easier or better will always be popular. Think about your customers and what their problems are. If you can provide useful advice to solve those problems they'll keep listening.

If your product is complicated or difficult to use consider releasing a series of instruction podcasts - particularly video podcasts. Offering podcasts with detailed and easy-to-follow instructions that walk customers through the process and warns them of pitfalls can turn dissatisfied customers into raving fans.

These are just some of the ways a podcast can be used to promote your business.

What is Podcasting For Business Marketing?   10 Ways a Podcast Can Build Your Business   How to Use Podcasting to Gain Authority For Your Business - Part Two   6 Tips to Eliminate Background Noise in Your Podcast   How Simple Podcasts Add Value to Your Small Business Website   How to Make a Podcast For a Website   

Getting to Know Vietnam: History and Tourism of Modern Hanoi

Hanoi, where the old and the new blend harmoniously, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Asia. The history of Hanoi, however, is long and tumultuous. From its earliest habitants dating to 3,000 BC through long periods of wars and occupation by the Ming Dynasty of China in 1408, the French in 1873, the Japanese during World War II, then the French again until the infamous Vietnam War, which ended in 1975.

Today, if you walk the streets of Hanoi, it is hard to imagine the damage experienced by this glorious city in the past. With its well-preserved temples, stunning Oriental and French architecture, magnificent landscapes and bustling city life, Hanoi has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Hanoi tourist spots are plentiful, and tourists will need to plan their stay and use a travel guide to see all these wonderful sights.

There are hundreds of temples and pagodas all over the city that offer solace and tranquility from the hustle and bustle of the streets. The oldest and most famous temple is the Bach Ma (or White Horse) Temple, built in 1010 by the founder of the Ly Dynasty, Ly Thai To. Another famous temple is the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius and his teachings.

Aside from these, the city is also home to a number of museums: National Museum of Vietnamese History, Ho Chi Minh Museum, Vietnam Women's Museum, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Contemporary Arts Centre, Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts, Vietnam Museum of Revolution, and Vietnam Military History Museum, just to name a few.

Hanoi also has a number of picturesque lakes. Hoan Kiem Lake, or the Lake of the Returned Sword, is a city centerpiece. A walk by the lake at night is perfect for a romantic evening. The largest in Hanoi, the West Lake has a number of gardens, restaurants and hotels, and other entertainment places surrounding it. Meanwhile, the parks and gardens of Hanoi include Cuc Phuong National Park, the foremost national park in the country, located about 100 km south of the city. The Botanical Gardens, a park located at the heart of the city, is popular with locals and tourists alike, with its sculptures and old trees amid open spaces ideal for outdoor activities.

But perhaps the most popular Hanoi tourist spot is the Hanoi Old Quarter. A bustling historical district situated near Hoan Kiem Lake, the Hanoi Old Quarter has 36 streets that date back to as early as the 13th century. Each of these 36 streets was named for the primary good originally sold and traded in that street. Today, some of the streets still have merchants that sell the original goods, although most now have restaurants, hotels and other establishments that support Hanoi tourism. There are plenty of lodgings around Hanoi, ranging from budget to luxurious. There are many hotels in Hanoi, including An Hung Hotel, that offer comfortable rooms at discounted rates for the leisure or business traveler.

With so many tourist spots, it is no wonder that tourism here is flourishing. In spite of the turbulent history of Hanoi, it has survived and continues to one of the top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia and the world.

Getting to Know Vietnam: History and Tourism of Modern Hanoi   Getting to Know Vietnam: History and Tourism of Modern Hanoi   

Aetna Dental Plans

Aetna dental plans provide a wide range of dental care solutions at affordable costs. And they are offered by Aetna, one of the largest health insurance companies, with over 14 million dental members. Plan options include:

Network-Only Dental Maintenance Organization (DMO) Dental Plans allow members to enjoy a broad variety of services while still enjoying savings on dental costs. DMO is available at half the cost of a traditional PPO plan and has two options: a low-cost DMO with fixed co-pay and co-insurance, and DMO Access that require members to choose a primary care provider while still allowing them to seek care from the Aetna dental discount network. Network-Option Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans are Aetna dental plans that allow members to visit the dentist of their choice but offers lower out-of-pocket costs if you use an in-network dentist. Employers have a choice of self-funded or full-risk options as well as differing levels of benefits, co-insurance, deductibles and annual maximums. Choices include Dental Care RewardSM that offers incentives to members who avail of preventive care during the current coverage year and Dental Prevention CareSM that offers 100% coverage on preventive care and some diagnostic services, as well as discounts on selected services. Hybrid Plans are Aetna dental plans that give members the option of choosing the advantages of two plans. Employees can opt for a DMO plan with lower out-of-pocket costs or Indemnity or PPO plans that allows them to choose from a wider range of dentists. And members can easily shift plans even on a monthly basis. Dental indemnity plans are traditional insurance plans in which employees have the option to visit any licensed dentist and be reimbursed for eligible preventive, basic and major services. Co-insurance, deductibles and annual maximums apply. The plan is available as a stand-alone policy or as part of Aetna Freedom-of-Choice plans. Compare Dental Health Plans   Dental Insurance for Seniors   Dental Health Care Insurance   Dental Insurance Series: Importance of Dental Insurance   Good Dental Insurance for Seniors