Man Arts

The archeological history of dogs is reported to be found in an ancient species of canids, thought to be the predecessor to what we know as the wolf, that is up

to 50 million years old. The start of domestication of man's best friend is generally accepted to have begun about 10,000 years ago. It's clear that when humans began to breed domestic dogs, we started to make them just how we wanted them.

The American Kennel Club recognizes 153 separate breeds of dogs today. There are literally hundreds, maybe thousands, of non-pedigreed breeds and types that also exist. When you consider that scores of these developed animals all arose from a small pool in a species of animals, it is a remarkable example of science - essentially eugenics - that we humans have conducted over the preceding ten millennia. In today's society we find gene manipulation a highly contentious issue, sparking strong feelings on either side of the argument, but it can't be denied that we've been at it for a good long while where our favorite domesticated animal is concerned.

The Greeks and Romans bred their dogs for use in war and hunting, and with the vast reach of the Roman Empire, their breeds and types were spread across Europe and beyond. Modern dog breeding is only about 150 years old, with the codification of accepted breeds, both for aesthetics, but more importantly - utility. As an affectation of the rich, some dogs strains were created and cultivated purely for how they looked, but others for their hunting or tracking abilities. All sorts of characteristics were accentuated in both - longer legs, shorter legs; long hair, short hair, curly hair; greater speed; greater strength; greater stamina; heightened sense of smell. Every possible feature of the animal was manipulated and turned up, emphasized; or eliminated and bred out.

We all have our favorites, for a variety of reasons. The Black Labrador - a well-tempered water dog, great with the family, great with the kids. The Rottweiler- enormous size, enormous strength, and incredible loyalty and service ability. The Australian Shepherd - incredible natural herding instinct and inherent intelligence. There are scores of diminutive dogs - petite Chihuahuas; tenacious Terriers - all bred and guided as a species through the years for traits that were most desired. Regrettably, too many breeds to detail here. Look up your favorite dog type on the AKC breeds page, and you get a look into the physical attributes, interesting facts, and history of all the recognized breeds.

Of significant note here is the wide-ranging variety of the working dog. Shepherds, from the aforementioned Australian, to the venerable bloodhound, to the Siberian Husky. These dogs, and all the worthy breeds in between, have been carefully selected, bred, and perpetuated, for their working attributes and abilities in a given task. Many dogs put to work as service dogs are not from illustrious bloodlines or strains, but are exceptional in their field nonetheless. However, our kind likes to manipulate things just so, and to tinker with anything we can to get the results we want. Just as in the past where dogs were used to find game, flush game, find escapees, pull sleds, even pull small wagons, we humans have found ourselves working hard to make the 'perfect' dog, absolutely superior in every regard for a given task set or purpose.

Regardless our technological advances and know-how, it has been found over and over that the most reliable and cost-effective means for detection - of explosives, contraband, drugs, etc. - is the working dog. With approximately 2,000 detection dogs at work worldwide in the law enforcement and military fields, there is an ongoing search for that 'perfect' service animal. Thus, the Sulimov Dog.

Enter Klim Sulimov, a research scientist at Russia's Likhachev Scientific Research Institute for Cultural Heritage and Environmental Protection. As a senior research assistant at an organization with such a lofty name, his work comes with a promise of accomplishment. Sulimov began his work on creating the ideal detection dog over 30 years ago, with a unique idea on cross-breeding.

Sulimov sought to isolate the most exceptional traits of his chosen breed stock- reindeer herding huskies, and - oddly enough - jackals. The husky was chosen for its keen sense of smell, one that is highly functional even at low temperatures, where many substances become non-volatile and harder to detect; thus this breed had the facility Sulimov was looking for. Dogs with the best sense in this regard have a sensitivity to smells that is around 40 times better than a human's, and the husky is at the top of this list. The jackal has a sense of smell even better than any breed of dog. However, jackals are feral animals with a natural fear of humans and a lack of obedience as such, and don't tolerate the cold well. Presented with this dilemma, Sulimov thought to interbreed the two species- hybridysation. What has resulted since the beginning of the program in 1975 is a dog that is 75% husky, 25% jackal. This combination gives the heightened smell ability of the wild jackal, combined with the temperment of the domesticated dog.

At present, there are 25 Sulimov dogs at work in the national airport in Moscow. There are reportedly only about 40 of the animals in existence, most at work in the Russian airport, and the rest dedicated to forensic criminology work. The Sulimov dog is highly regarded as a detection animal, able to extraordinary finds due to its sense of smell, and able to enter small spaces and corners owing to its size. It also has a distinctive way of indicating a 'positive' detection: it's curled tail - owing to it's husky lineage - droops and goes slack.

But don't expect to see these incredible genetic creations in the West any time soon. The Sulimov dog is essentially considered a state secret in Russia, and is prohibited from exportation. The Russians may have created the best detection dog on the planet, but like all government secrets, they're not willing to share it with the rest of the world. The Sulimov dogs are at work protecting the public in Russia. Perhaps when they have been recognized as an established breed and find widespread acceptance and acclaim in their field they will be bred extensively, and be sent to the far corners of the globe to do their exceptional work.

A variety of open-source documents were used in writing this article. Additional information on the Sulimov dog can be found in the following articles:

Information on breeds that are registered and recognized by the American Kennel Club can be accessed at:

Mixed Martial Arts has seen an explosion in popularity over the last few years, and has finally gained 'credibility' in mass media. Long scorned by most media outlets- the 'Big Three' of broadcast TV, and even the channel series dedicated to sport - ESPN, the popularity of MMA can no longer be denied. The big cash-in by previous detractors - in the aforementioned - has shown that even if aloof producers and media execs didn't get it, the viewing public sure does.

Written by two academics who are also big fans and fighters themselves, Fighting for Acceptance explores not only the societal implications and impact of the toughest sport on the planet, but also looks at fighting from the practitioner's point of view.

The details the incredible stress of entering the ring; facing off against someone who wants to literally destroy you. The ego issues of putting it all on the line, with the possibility of losing and a 'loss of face' in a testosterone-fueled peer group, and in the manliest of endeavors.

Interviews with some of the biggest names in the sport - Randy Couture, Quentin Jackson, Dan Henderson, et al - show the hardship, and soaring personal heights of the MMA fighter. The grueling difficulty of training, making it financially until one 'breaks through' and they can actually make a living at their sport, as well as commentary on societal violence outside the ring are some of the subjects that are covered in the interviews with the fighting elite.

Fighting for Acceptance is an interesting and insightful read for both the aficionado of MMA, but also a good look into the sport for those who don't know much about it. A great read for Alpha Dads, this book should be on your reading list this year.

See an additional review on MMAJunkie.com covering this title- review.

Official website for Fighting for Acceptance for information on the book can be found here- link.

Pretty simple, short review here- the FiveFingers active shoe. They look like glov

es for your feet, making them look a bit like monkey feet. Somebody finally took the toes out of being boxed in and gave them a cover and sole for each one. Time Magazine named the FiveFingers one of the Best Inventions of 2007.

The construction is exceptional, and the overall quality is what you would expect from Vibram- excellent. Sole portion is tacky and non-slip. Uppers are comfortable fabric that has a pretty good wear-life.

The FiveFingers are kind of hard to get used to in the beginning. Until they're broken in a bit, it's hard to get your toes in each individual sleeve. You may have to do some amusing spreading of your toes - especially the little one - to get them situated at first.

But once they're on, the shoe is extremely comfortable, and provides a good level of protection for the foot, while significantly enhancing grip. The FiveFingers Classic comes with an elastic drawstring to tighten the foot cup to the upper foot, making for a snug fit. The other models - Sprint; KSO; and Flow - have a velcro strap that crosses over the bridge of the foot and firmly secures the shoe on your foot.

There are numerous proponents of running barefoot, for proper conditioning and even reduction of the host of injuries that arise from running. The FiveFingers makes this possible on most terrain. The construction of some of the models is specifically for cross-use in water sports like rafting or wind-surfing.

They look funny at first, but then make for great appeal. They're comfortable and have incredible grip. And they sure are a conversation piece when you wear them out. Go get a pair and treat your feet, well- your toes, to a special shoe of their own.

Plain old running, biking, swimming, or even rollerblading gets old. Stale. Not too much fun. So what exactly is there to do that's new and fun? Challenging? Even a little bit nutty? Enter the Poweriser. Or as it's commonly known- the Flying Jumper. There are a handful of companies that make this kind of thing, but the company Flying Jumper claims to be the originator, and warns of imitations.

The Flying Jumper is a modern twist on two simple concepts- good old running and jumping, and the fun toy from our youth- the Pogo Stick. Old-school simplicity meets new age

technology. It's a bit hard to describe- two stilt-like devices with curved leaf springs for the stilts. You boot into the foot/ankle chocks and stand up in the thing. You then end up with an extension to your legs that look kind of like rear legs on an animal.

The feats possible with the Flying Jumpers strapped on are incredible. You can jump about six feet in the air, take nine foot strides, and run at up to 20 mph. Wearing, getting around on, and doing amazing stuff on the Jumpers is now it's own sport/style- bocking. There are many websites dedicated to bocking, and you can find videos and pix of people doing amazing things.

In choosing the right Poweriser product, they are

different for weight of user, and by style

. To choose the correct model, you go by your weight for correct sizing. Then it's just a matter of selecting the right level that you want- simple Adult, or the Professional model. The Adult model is about $300, and the Professional $400.

It's a bit difficult to describe the stunts and what it looks like, so if promises of six foot leaps and superhuman speeds aren't enough- these pix are a look at what can be done with the Jumpers on.

These devices are available on Amazon, or you can also buy directly from Flying Jumper. If you're interested in them, best advice is to read feedback on the different companies offering them. Subtle name differences and similarity of design have made the quality ratings of each company harder to figure out. A little research should set you in the right direction. Perhaps this spring we'll try a set out. Better give them a run before your kids get the idea and want a set.

In response to a request for input from Alpha Dad readers, we got some great stuff on skills that we're teaching, or should be teaching our kids. Important things they don't get taught in school or sports. Answers ranged from simple one-liners, to general guidance, to specific lists on individual tasks and specific skills. Age ranges for the advice or learning was comprehensive; from stuff for little kids to things that teenagers should know.

We present here some of the great stuff that AD readers were good enough to send in, for the benefit of all of us to consider and implement when getting our kids ready to be competent, exceptional adults.

Where to start? A number of the replies concerned teaching children how to think. Learning how to figure things out on their own-

At my daughter's age - three - I have been teaching her critical thinking. Instead of crying or giving up and asking daddy to do it, I encourage her to solve whatever is the problem. I will admit, at times it would be easier to do it myself, but then I will have abdicated my responsibility as a father.

Most important skill: critical thinking and decision making. A child must have a basic philosophy in place to use as filter.

Make them figure it out themselves. Give them simple tasks - something you don't want to be bothered with - and make them figure it out, start to finish. Here- set up the wires on the computer. You can't mess it up; they're color-coded, and will only fit in one hole. If you can figure out how to beat Zelda or Super Smash Mario Brothers all the way to the end, you can figure out how to plug the computer in. Or open a door lock with the key.

Moving into childhood, there were some great things that you can start as soon as they're able to use their hands and have the ability to read-

How to shop for food. Example- Start with a list of what you don't have in the house but need, then look for the best price vs. product.

How to read the directions on box-mix foods to be able to cook for themselves. Macaroni and cheese can actually be kind of tricky for a kid! Drain the water before you put the cheese powder in the noodles.

Cleaning- teach them how to clean. And when they're done, what is clean. "Are you done cleaning your room?" "Yes, Dad." "Is it clean to you, or if I come in there, will it be clean to me?" ("Um... Hold on Daddy, let me check again.")

How to see things that are apparently invisible to them until you force them to notice. Examples- shoes in the middle of the floor. To small boys- invisible. Trash left behind after eating Pop-Tarts; invisible. Clothes in a pile on the floor in their room; invisible. Muddy footprints in the hall when it's raining; invisible. Dishes left on the counter after eating; invisible. Even if you put something - any item - right in the doorway to their room, they'll step right over it, again and again. Because it's invisible. Until you make them stop and realize - shock! - it's no trick! There really is a my dirty underwear there on the floor. And it goes in the laundry!

If you can shoot a basketball, or put on an entire football uniform, you can do the wash. I'll show you once or twice, but after that, if you run out of clean clothes, it's up to you.

How to keep up with their stuff! It's not Mommy and Daddy's job to keep a running tab on the whereabouts of things that are important to you.

"See all those chores you just did (putting up the laundry; emptying the dishwasher; putting all the dirty dishes into the dishwasher; sweeping the kitchen; vacuuming the living room)? If you didn't help to do get it done, who would have to do all of it?" "Mommy or Daddy." "Right. Is that fair?" "No."

How to dress for certain occasions; example- when to wear a suit, jeans, shorts, dresses etc.

Not to parrot every conversation, where I said something about someone they may see again. For instance- "You're right, Aunt M- Mr. R did get fat." Don't repeat stuff like that when you see Mr. R!

I think in this day and age with so much emphasis being put on professional appearance, we should shed the old image of "a real man showers with raw lye and a Brillo pad," and teach our sons that it's okay for a man to take care of his skin. Women will appreciate it, it will definitely make you look more professional, and - as dumb as it sounds - taking that small amount of time to treat yourself will pay dividends in your attitude and how happy you are. Just don't take it too far; having a daily routine for clean and clear skin is one thing, getting a weekly facial and acid scrub is a bit much for an Alpha Dad kid.

Stinky breath is caused by not brushing your teeth. Brush your teeth every day, at least twice. Make them learn how to floss their teeth. If they don't do a good job, or won't do it, tell them you'll do it for them. You'll only have to do it once.

Teach them that smelling good is a great thing. Teach them and remind them to put on deodorant or a little bit of cologne or perfume, and they'll smell great.

Outdoor skills that are critical for kids for them to be able to operate in the woods-

Show them they don't have to be afraid of the dark. Everything that's there in the light is the same thing that's there in the dark. Nothing magically appears when it gets dark. And there are no animals that will eat you in all of North America until you get way, way out in the sticks. And even if they're out there, they stay away from loud kids smashing around in the woods.

Remind them- if you use the wrong symbol, or put the decimal in the wrong place, the answer is wrong. Here's a great example- you owe me six dollars. Wait- decimal place in the wrong position. Now you owe me sixty dollars.

Cartoons are entertainment. They are essentially crap. You can enjoy watching science shows, history shows, and How It's made. You'll enjoy it, and put something useful in your brain. If that's a problem, you can go in your room and read a book.

Don’t ask questions that you don’t want to hear the answers for. Some examples: Do you love me? Am I fat/boring/shallow?

If you discover that you’re willing to lie, steal, cheat, make lame excuses or hide every day in order to be able to partake of something you like or want; if you catch yourself attempting to regulate, monitor, inhibit, cut back or cut down, you've got a problem. Get some help and address it.

No one can make you work. Ditto for paying bills, keeping appointments, building up savings, honoring promises, following through, discovering your true passions and getting enough sleep. These are things you’ll have to do yourself.

Remind them that they essentially have two jobs (in most cases): academics and sports. They are to do their best, work to their ability, study diligently, and hustle all the time on the field. If they don't like their two jobs, they can quit one. But you'll find them another job to replace the one they quit.

For young adults, as they begin to have a need for more complicated life skills-

I started teaching my 13-year-old daughter to drive. The number one skill for driving: backing up.

At an early age she was taught about gun safety since there are a few guns in my home.

How to change a car battery, check tire pressure, change a tire, and check the oil.

How to use hand tools. What each tool is called. What's the right tool to use for the task; Philips or Flathead?

How to break into your house - not someone else's - if you get locked out. Or call a locksmith.

Your credit rating. Mistakes are forever. Pay everything off in full. Absolutely. Everything. And if you can’t afford it, don’t buy it.

Every landlord you ever have will try to screw you. For the sake of your karma, be a good tenant. Get everything in writing. Follow your lease to the letter and leave the place cleaner when you move out than when you moved in. They’ll still screw you; it’s just business.

If you become a landlord, every tenant you ever have will try to screw you. For the sake of your karma, keep the plumbing in good working order, welcome large dogs and remember that when a property owner returns a whole security deposit, somewhere in heaven a sweet little angel gets its wings.

Relationships as they get older and it becomes pertinent, and dealing with the opposite sex-

If someone loves you and you don’t love them back, you're required to tell them. Be quick about it, be gentle; then leave them be, for good.

Statistically speaking, 99% of the humans you encounter will have been abandoned by their fathers. 92% will have deep-rooted, high-intensity feelings about their mothers. Remember this when you begin dating.

While you will undoubtedly fall in love with, and likely have kids with, an individual that you later discover to be a filthy, crazy, rotten person, don’t take it personally. If this happens more than once, however, you’ll want to take a good hard look at the common denominator. That would be you.

If someone is your friend when it's just the two of you, and then they're an ass to you when you're in a group, they're not your friend.

Tell them over and over, and you will have to repeat it- "Yes, I know it hurts. It sucks when someone doesn't like you any more, and doesn't want to go steady with you. But this will pass. Honest. And you'll go through it a lot of times - lots and lots - by the time you get to be my age. Get used to it, and be strong."

Some tongue-in-cheek items, humorous, but also with a point. And some things we may have to remind ourselves of as we try to be the good parent-

I had to remind myself not to give comments or be critical of people while I'm out with the kids. Mommy thinks women with short hair look butch. Sure enough, it wasn't too long until I heard my daughter remark- "Look, Mommy- butch!" Right in front of the woman in question! This also became a lesson for Daddy; he was made the mistake of calling the women huffing and puffing in Sweating to the Oldies 'fat.' Sure enough, the daughter says the same thing, again- right in front of the obese lady at the store.

Wipe your bum with toilet paper! Not the shower curtain or a hand towel. Yes, this has happened at my house.

Never, ever run from the police. Law enforcement officers get angry when their blood pressure goes up. Chasing people gets their blood pressure up. Don’t make them chase you. Istanbul or Detroit , in a car or on foot, no matter your race or age, no matter your relative guilt or innocence, if you run from them, when they catch you - and they will catch you - they will find a way to discreetly beat you senseless. As with loose Rottweilers, stand perfectly still and avoid eye contact.

You are the lowest little animal in the food chain. Welcome to my kingdom. I own everything you have and think is yours.

Mom's need to remember- little boys, just like their Dads, like to spend a long time in the bathroom. It's a great place to read without getting bothered. Please don't bother them when they're in there.

Many thanks to all the AD readers that sent in their programs and lessons they're giving their kids. If anyone would like to make additions, or thinks of something important we missed, send it in, and we'll get it in the list.

He’s got that job that every Alpha Dad wants. You’ve see

n him on TV on his program Future Weapons, driving, shooting, and blowing up things with the coolest gear on the planet. He’s a former Navy SEAL, security and defense expert, bestselling author. As the founder of the Bukido Institute, he trains others in becoming more capable and focused as individuals in a dangerous world. All that said, you would expect a reticent, serious guy, with the wall full of awards, but not much to say. You certainly wouldn’t think that getting a few moments of his personal time would feel like you’re at your own self-development seminar.

Positive. If you had to describe Mack in one word, that would be it. Talking to Richard Machowicz is quite an experience. Spending a few minutes with him, and you get a straight blast of positive. Nothing but positive. As your time with him progresses, you start to believe you can do anything you set your mind to.

Mack – as he’s known outside his TV persona – is a humble, sincere, and yeah- positive guy. His personal work and demeanor in his career and personal life is pure Alpha Dad – he’s dedicated to being more, setting the bar higher, and giving this to others. He’s a man with integrity, and something positive and circumspect to say on any subject.

With all this in mind, we had the opportunity to bring you a look at what Mack is all about.

Machowicz had humble beginnings, and was raised primarily by his mom. He got a lot of criticism and doubts as a teenager as to where he would end up. Ask him what motivated him to join the Navy, and go for the hardest thing he could do, to be one of the best, and Richard is sincere-

Richard Machowicz: I had a burning desire to make it. Some of it was an ‘I’ll show you’ attitude, to prove all those critics in my younger years wrong, and show them what I was made of, what I would become. I had the burning desire to be more, be the best, I joined the military to start on that path.

With this, he made his first step on the road to excellence. He passed SEAL training, and got sent to the Teams. Upon his arrival there, he set his initial goal in a simple framework- he would make himself into the best SEAL he could: transition from being the newbie and work hard to be as competent an operator as possible. To know everything he could grab about being a SEAL, being a part of the team, accumulating all he could on every position. He soaked it all up, took all the guidance and information in he could garner, and excelled in all that he was presented with.

Dedication to learning, mission and excellence got him to one of the most difficult and challenging positions a military operator can achieve – sniper. After adding as much skill and experience he could in this, he then moved on to his work as a special warfare instructor, sharing and imparting his knowledge to the rest of his peer community.

Mack’s description of life as a SEAL is a great microcosm of the Alpha Male world:

RM: SEAL teams are a pack of Alpha Males that get along because they have a chain of command.

When asked about what he used as fuel to succeed in that environment, to be one of the best, his answer was simple and prescient-

RM: From the beginning of training and to being an operator, my mindset was resolute- to not quit no matter what. To drop ego issues and be the best as a part of the team.

Alpha Dad: What did your time on the Teams give you; how did i

t change you as a man and set you on your way in career and life?

RM: Being on the Teams showed me the evolution to become a leader; learning leadership – true leadership – by working hard, leading from the front. This helped focus my drive to achieve my goals, and gave me the true belief to know that all things are possible. I loved being a SEAL. It’s all about you and your guys. About finding yourself, and being comfortable with that. Fitting in as a part of the team. It gave me two simple lessons: How to go after things; not quit. It showed me how to plan – evaluate, then execute. Being a SEAL gave me the best personal experience possible – how to learn and achieve. Focus. And in life you end up doing things that others don’t want to – or can’t – do. Acceptance of this role, and excelling in it.

Heady, humble stuff, coming from a sniper in one of the most elite units in the world. But Mack means it, and hearing him tell it, you're struck with the realization that he’s sincere, every word of it.

AD: Mack, how exactly did you end up with the best job in the world? That is – the host of Future Weapons. You get to shoot awesome weapons, try out the best military equipment, and travel the world doing the coolest guy stuff. You are the envy of Alpha Dads everywhere, you know.

RM: The show is an evolution of a concept that Discovery purchased. Working with the great team at Waddell Media, I was able to help evolve the concept, and it eventually became the Future Weapons program. I'm one of some of the great producers on Future Weapons now. It took a lot of work by a lot of people– building relationships, cultivating ideas and where to put them. It takes timing; right idea, right place, right time.

When it came to talking about the weapons he’s gotten to shoot, stuff he’s gotten to drive, and generally blowing up stuff and working at the cooles

t job possible, he’s enthusiastic.

AD: Mack, what’s your favorite weapon, piece of equipment, or action that you’ve gotten to experience as the host of Future Weapons? You seemed pretty enthusiastic on the ride you took in a fighter jet. Still your favorite?

RM: The ride in the Superhornet was incomparable. Words really don’t do it justice. The call sign for the guy flying my ride is ‘Spicoli,’ so that should give you an idea. We took off with an hour-and-a-half of fuel, and he burned it up in 40 minutes. It was a hell of a ride. We rolled and climbed, pulling massive G’s, and on a hard climb we did a 90 knot stall, and it was beautiful. Just a seminal event.

But you know, I’ve had so many, many great times. I got to shoot the Cheytac sniper rifle [see the AD List of Cool Man Stuff- Ed.]. It’s the most incredible, accurate weapon. Knocking down targets at over 2,000 meters. (He laughs) You know, that was a hard day. The wind was blowing at 26 knots, and there was the crew, waiting to take video of me shooting this awesome weapon. I was like- come on guys; this is a really hard shot! [BTW- Mack zeroed and was on target at about 1,000 meters in four rounds. –Ed].

I’ve been lucky. Really fortunate. And honestly- the best part about my job is the guys I get to meet across the world doing my show. Professionals and experts in their field. The soldiers, and service members – men and women – doing their job across the globe. People that believe in what they’re doing.

In talking about the show, Future Weapons, Mack is enthusiastic, as he is in all things. But he makes a serious point about the purpose of the program, and what it’s all about.

RM: You know, sometimes people miss a big point of the show. It’s not just about weapons and gear. It’s really about making things better. Believe it or not- safer. If you could have a weapon that was more accurate, and minimized the conflict, would you want it? If you had the technology to create weapons that minimiz

ed collateral damage, and could limit the conflict to actual combatants, would you take it? Future Weapons isn’t just about the weapons or equipment, it’s about making them better so that war is more precise, less people get hurt, and you’re given such overwhelming superiority that it limits and shortens the conflict. At no time in our history has such care been given, attention and importance placed on limiting war and making conflict safer, both for the operator and civilians. Rules of engagement? Yeah, they’re tough, and change the way the fight is run. But it actually makes it better. Makes you better, and forces you to do it right. Limit the damage and have care for the people not involved in the fight. It’s harder but better.

AD: After having studied numerous martial arts styles, which is your favorite for practice and personal enjoyment? Which do you think is best in practical application?

RM: Oh, man. I’ve studied and enjoyed so many of them. I have a strong boxing background, and Muay Thai. I studied Japanese Jiu Jitsu. I enjoy all of them. I was a gymnast in high school, so I like the physical aspect of all the martial arts. For sport and training, I like Muay Thai the best. I also think that as an effective martial art, of all the combat sports, Muay Thai is one of the best until you move to systems specifically designed for lethality.

With many styles, they often have many, many good techniques, but their practical application isn’t there for a lot of what we do in the real world.

AD: Our audience here is typically Alpha Guys, 30 to 50-years-old. We all wish we could stay young, be hard guys, and stay fit, but we can’t escape age. As you’ve aged, what is your current fitness regimen? How has that changed significantly over the years?

RM: I like running circuits. Like doing consecutive rounds of boxing or Muay Thai, working hard, but building attributes that are useful. This is great for stamina. I like to do it all. Running, lifting weights, plyometrics, yoga. I think you have to decide what your fitness goals are, and work towards that. Are you working to prepare for an event, or just general fitness? Do you want to be strong, or have endurance?

There are so many great things you can do, so if you’re not training for a specific event, you can just mix them in. I’m a big fan of Mike Mahler’s kettle bell workout. He’s created an entire strength system around that simple foundation. Overall, I think keep it simple, but keep it fun. Remain engaged, but be realistic about what your goals are. That doesn’t mean go easy, but make challenging but realistic goals for yourself.

But back to what we talked about earlier, yoga and stretching are absolutely vital and necessary, particularly as we age. Make a good balance on your exercises and activities, but be sure to add a stretching component. Yoga is great in this way.

Mack is the founder of The Bukido Institute. Bukido is an entir

e system that brings out the warrior spirit in the individual. The spirit and way of being that can be applied to many aspects of life: business, stress and and physical challenges, personal defense; even the overall aspects of our day-to-day life. Mack truly believes, he knows, that this spirit and capability resides within us all, and the Bukido Institute is all about bringing this out of those that attend training.

RM: Oh, man! Ha. The short answer? Bukido is a path to a goal, or way of being. it’s about being able to focus, really focus, under any circumstance, in any situation. To be effective. It’s not just about self-defense. It’s more about developing a skill, a mindset, that makes you effective in all aspects of life. We use and think of combat as a metaphor; most of us will never be in combat in a literal way, but the way to manage this kind of stress is useful in the same way in your daily stress.

Bukido is all about dropping your fears; get on to what you already know, use your abilities, and move into action. We all feel fear about something at some time in our lives. A lot of times, this is due to a lack of understanding. About ourselves, about the situation. Sometimes it becomes a habit that we grow accustomed to. We need to get past the fear and be effective. To feel good. The best way to do this is a dual approach: Planning– thought and consideration. And getting past the fear – work on what you can get done, what you already know. It’s in there, you have to be able to use it, get to it in short order, and live that way. To focus. When you can do this in stressful situations, it opens a whole new way of being, and you’re able to apply this to life as a whole. If you focus on the target, both in a literal and theoretical sense, to be able to hone in like a laser, it makes you capable and able to take action in any situation.

AD: Can a regular guy come to the Institute? What is your suggestion for a good starter course in your programs?

RM: We have all sorts of people come to the Institute for training; Alpha Dads, Alpha Females. Business people, people who want to be able to go to the next level in their ability to focus and achieve. We have an interview process, and we’re pretty selective. A good starter is the F.I.S.T. course (Fundamental Individual Skills Training). This is the start of the training pyramid we've designed. Each course builds to take you to the next level. We develop speed, accuracy, and instilling a lack of fear in the student.

Mack is sincere when he discusses The Institute, how it truly develops the individual, and makes one capable of overcoming fear, to focus, and to take action. To achieve. A

s you should have already begun to see, Mack is a dedicated man, with enormous integrity. He makes it clear that the system - everything they teach at Bukido – is effective and will make you better at anything you do. There is a complete, absolute satisfaction guaranteed commitment from Mack and The Institute. If you don’t think you got everything possible out of the training, that it didn’t make you better and give you those key things- the ability to focus, to drop fear, to be able to act; you get your money back. No BS. But- he’s never had that happen. Everyone has always come away more than when they came in, and typically come back for more training.

AD: What main points can you give us here that are incorporated into your training program that are of significant importance in the complicated world we live in?

RM: Focus and drop fear. Be able to focus under stress. To understand what’s really in front of you, leave fear aside, and be effective. You also have to take responsibility for ‘how it is.’ Own up to it, and make it what it should be.

On this note, we had an interesting discussion about this- taking responsibility and owning what you are, what the scene of your life is. Mack makes a humble, declarative statement- “I’m here to serve. I truly believe in giving; to your family, to your friends, to your country. I believe in a life of service, and have tried to give the best I have to everyone around me.” This may sound like rhetoric, but he's heartfelt and honest when he makes the statement. If you look at the man, what he’s all about, it’s easy to see that it’s true. Mack is living it, every minute of every day.

Mack is a Zen Buddhist. He did all the requisites for a number of years to become a Buddhist Priest. After the years of study and practice, mining the depths of his inner self, he opted not to take the last vows. This makes him no less an enthusiast on the practice of Buddhism. He sees Buddhism as a path, a means to an end in taking one to an exceptional plane- one where the mind, body, and spirit converge. To be at peace and feel the wonder of it all. Of everything.

AD: Mack, the interesting part about this (Buddhism) is that I’ve found that many serious Alpha Dad types, particularly those that have been in high-intensity military work or the like, become Buddhists as they age. Much as the Samurai of feudal Japan, when their warrior work was done, they moved onto a more spiritual and reflective way of life. What’s your take on this whole spiritual transition and how you came to this yourself?

RM: It’s a path, a transition from being a warrior to something more. As you push yourself, on a narrow path, you're learning, and succeeding, but it’s a narrow path. We’re working on all that external learning, external training. But there’s the inner self that’s waiting. When we begin to learn and go deep on the internal training, we widen the path. We have to work on the inside as hard as we do on the outside. When you start to do this, and it begins to make sense, to become real for you, you awaken to the fact of how beautiful and amazing life is. I truly feel lucky; lucky to be alive. Envy of the peace that resides in others becomes a stepping-stone to find that for yourself. You begin to add and learn more, inside, and it opens it all up for you, and it makes life a pleasure and wonderful.

AD: How do you feel that your interests and objectives have changed as you move into middle age? How have they stayed the same?

RM: I’ve learned how to apply skill and learning. To use it. This may sound overly simple, but it is. Focus on your goals, become a laser, and use all that you have and know, and make it happen. Want to succeed?- Work on it. Make it real. (He laughs) And the best thing you can learn is patience. Be patient and make it work; make it happen.

AD: What do you do with your time and energy when you’re not working at the best job in the world?

RM: You know, I really do feel lucky. I feel fortunate, and I appreciate that. My life is built in such a way that not much of what I do ‘feels’ like work. Look at my job- I get to go to great places and shoot, blow stuff up, and it’s my job. That’s not a job. I love that. And when I’m not doing that, I work on scripts that I’m developing, projects I’m working on – feature films, video games that we’re going to produce. But that's what I enjoy, so it doesn’t feel like work. It’s pleasure and work, the same thing.

We took some time to discuss Mack’s growing celebrity, and a lot of the projects and goals that he’s working on. How this affects his day-to-day life, his family life and personal time. Mack is married – enthusiastically married – and speaks reverentially about his wife. She’s involved in every aspect of his life [This seems to be a common theme with some of our interviewees; they have come to a point in their life that they share with their spouse, in everything – business, leisure, family life, and it’s a great joy to them. –Ed.] Mack was smart – he waited until he was 40 to get married, and had the maturity and ability to give both his time and attention, to married and be a good husband. He’s got a newborn daughter, and his tone changes beyond his usual positive and upbeat manner when he talks about this. He loves being a Dad. He enjoys every minute of parenthood, his daughter, that part of his life.

His answers on questions surrounding his growing fame and success in all things are another example of his humility and integrity. He expressed sincere gratitude, not in just his answers, but in how he clearly felt about his life.

AD: As you’ve become more and more of an international celebrity, what has kept you grounded as the same kind of guy?

RM: Being grateful. That I’m lucky. I feel absolutely honored if someone asks for my autograph. That someone should think highly of me and think that’s special. I feel privileged to be acknowledged for my work. I know I’ve worked hard, but a lot of people do, and I’ve been fortunate to have made the success that I have. With this, I’m working on a number of things to give what I can to others. We’re involved in the Hunger Project. We’re putting together a program called the Abundance Project, to show underprivileged kids how to develop and make success from intellectual property they create. All sorts of things. I’m happy with knowing that I can do it, but for everyone I have the good fortune I meet, that they can do it, too. Anything is possible.

AD: How do you balance and dedicate your personal life – family, kids, and even friends – with your work, and particularly becoming a celebrity?

RM: It’s pretty simple: I make sure everything I do is okay with those in my life; my family, my friends. Before I take on a project, I make it okay with those that are important in my life, and when it’s right, we do it. All those people that your actions are going to affect are important in the decision. In the end, it’s your responsibility, my responsibility, but I have to consider all those things before I move in a certain direction. I try to simplify things as much as possible. Instead of trying to do 17 different things, and being okay at it, I want to focus and make one thing be perfect and complete. Reduce the overall number of tasks, and do that one thing right.

AD: Since you’re working such a great gig, that is obviously a pleasure to you on the job, what do you do in your spare time?

RM: I’ve been blessed. For me, work is fun. I’ve been lucky in this. If you can, design your work so that it is fun. If you get it right, all that you do can be fun.

AD: What is at least one thing that we have to add to the List of

Cool Man Stuff?

RM: I think every Alpha Dad should have a copy of Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill. It’s a fantastic book, and it’s a must-read. (Amazon ISBN-10: 1593302002)

RM: I love the quote by Thomas Jefferson: “I’m a lucky man. The harder I work, the luckier I am.” I think that’s great. It’s all about preparing yourself. Be blessed, feel blessed. You have to take responsibility for how it is, and make it how you want it to be.

Mack made this statement during the course of our talk, but we’ll close with it here:

Alpha Dad sincerely appreciates Mack taking the time to give us an interview and giving Alpha Dads a good look at his life and personal philosophy.

Readers should be sure to get a copy of Mack’s book-

Unleash the Warrior Within, available at all major booksellers and on Amazon (ISBN-10:1569244979).

Alpha Dads will surely be interested in learning more about the Bukido Institute. We'd be glad to get an account on the experience of attending the courses. It's on the calendar for us this coming year.

As I said at the beginning of this interview – Mack is an extraordinary, positive guy, focused on his own goals and agenda, but giving everything he can, every single moment, to those around him and the world at large. If we’re lucky, we’ll get more Richard Machowicz, in a larger scope, doing more work where we can get to see what a solid man with integrity, a great Alpha Dad can give the world.

Deer Roping

I had this idea that I was going to rope a deer, put it in a stall, feed it up on corn for a couple of weeks, then kill it and eat it. The first step in this adventure was getting a deer. I figured that, since they congregate at my cattle feeder and do not seem to have much fear of me when we are there (a bold one will sometimes come right up and sniff at the bags of feed while I am in the back of the truck not 4 feet away), it should not be difficult to rope one, get up to it and toss a bag over its head (to calm it down) then hog tie it and transport it home.

I filled the cattle feeder then hid down at the end with my rope. The cattle, having seen the roping thing before, stayed well back. They were not having any of it. After about 20 minutes, my deer showed up — 3 of them. I picked out a likely looking one, stepped out from the end of the feeder, and threw my rope. The deer just stood there and stared at me. I wrapped the rope around my waist and twisted the end so I would have a good hold. The deer still just stood and stared at me, but you could tell it was mildly concerned about the whole rope situation. I took a step towards it...it took a step away. I put a little tension on the rope and then received an education.

The first thing that I learned is that, while a deer may just stand there looking at you funny while you rope it, they are spurred to action when you start pulling on that rope. That deer EXPLODED.

The second thing I learned is that pound for pound, a deer is a LOT stronger than a cow or a colt. A cow or a colt in that weight range I could fight down with a rope and with some dignity. A deer— no chance. That thing ran and bucked and twisted and pulled. There was no controlling it and certainly no getting close to it. As it jerked me off my feet and started dragging me across the ground, it occurred to me that having a deer on a rope was not nearly as good an idea as I had originally imagined. The only upside is that they do not have as much stamina as many other animals. A brief 10 minutes later, it was tired and not nearly as quick to jerk me off my feet and drag me when I managed to get up. It took me a few minutes to realize this, since I was mostly blinded by the blood flowing out of the big gash in my head.

At that point, I had lost my taste for corn-fed venison. I just wanted to get that devil creature off the end of that rope. I figured if I just let it go with the rope hanging around its neck, it would likely die slowly and painfully somewhere. At the time, there was no love at all between me and that deer. At that moment, I hated the thing, and I would venture a guess that the feeling was mutual. Despite the gash in my head and the several large knots where I had cleverly arrested the deer's momentum by bracing my head against various large rocks as it dragged me across the ground, I could still think clearly enough to recognize that there was a small chance that I shared some tiny amount of responsibility for the situation we were in, so I didn't want the deer to have it suffer a slow death, so I managed to get it lined back up in between my truck and the feeder - a little trap I had set beforehand ... kind of like a squeeze chute. I got it to back in there and I started moving up so I could get my rope back.

Did you know that deer bite? They do! I never in a million years would have thought that a deer would bite somebody, so I was very surprised when I reached up there to grab that rope and the deer grabbed hold of my wrist. Now, when a deer bites you, it is not like being bit by a horse where they just bite you and then let go. A deer bites you and shakes its head — almost like a pit bull. They bite HARD and it hurts.

The proper thing to do when a deer bites you is probably to freeze and draw back slowly. I tried screaming and shaking instead. My method was ineffective. It seems like the deer was biting and shaking for several minutes, but it was likely only several seconds. I, being smarter than a deer (though you may be questioning that claim by now) tricked it. While I kept it busy tearing the bejesus out of my right arm, I reached up with my left hand and pulled that rope loose.

That was when I got my final lesson in deer behavior for the day. Deer will strike at you with their front feet. They rear right up on their back feet and strike right about head and shoulder level, and their hooves are surprisingly sharp. I learned a long time ago that, when an animal — like a horse — strikes at you with their hooves and you can't get away easily, the best thing to do is try to make a loud noise and make an aggressive move towards the animal. This will usually cause them to back down a bit so you can escape. This was not a horse. This was a deer, so obviously, such trickery would not work. In the course of a millisecond, I devised a different strategy. I screamed like a woman and tried to turn and run.

The reason I had always been told NOT to try to turn and run from a horse that paws at you is that there is a good chance that it will hit you in the back of the head. Deer may not be so different from horses after all, besides being twice as strong and 3 times as evil, because the second I turned to run, it hit me right in the back of the head and knocked me down. Now, when a deer paws at you and knocks you down, it does not immediately leave. I suspect it does not recognize that the danger has passed. What they do instead is paw your back and jump up and down on you while you are lying there crying like a little girl and covering your head. I finally managed to crawl under the truck and the deer went away.

So now I know why when people go deer hunting they bring a rifle with a scope so that they can be somewhat equal to the Prey.

If you watch movies at all, or anything on TV - from popular series, to science shows - producers have taken to bringing us all sorts of features on the apocalypse. Floods, volcanoes, asteroids, hurricanes, viruses, earthquakes; you name it. All this fare is made to entertain us, but the tag that draws us in is to strike a chord in us all- fear. Much as the teaser for the nightly news- 'Your car may cause cancer; story at 11,' all these programs hook us and reel us in.

Unfortunately, many of the disasters that these shows splash across the screen for us may give example to events that aren't too far from the truth, or may not be too far in the future. We have become a distinctly pop-culture; here today, gone tomorrow. Good news doesn't sell, and bad news is quickly forgotten. The current war(s), recent weather catastrophes, the latest serial killer, all gets put in front of us. Whether we see it once, or repeatedly, and we are largely desensitized to it. In the middle of all this, we lose sight of the real dangers, cataclysm, and disasters that are really, really out there. If you're the one who suffers from a hurricane making landfall, or if your house gets swept away in a mudslide, all those things become far too real and many times makes for the end of life as you know it.

Believe it or not, this all ties into the recent request for skills and lessons that we should teach our kids to be competent adults (see below). Stuff that - in good times - will serve them well living in a complicated world. And core skills that - in bad times - might prove the difference in them making it out of disaster.

Presented here are some factual historical events that are not just possible, but highly likely to be repeated in our time or near future. Things to think on. And maybe make the skill list for your kids a little more pertinent.

The Spanish Flu Epidemic of 1918-19
When we think of the period of 1918 or so, the only thing that most people know is that was the time of the First World War. Ironically, there was a flu epidemic in the same time period that caused far more deaths than that war. Called the Spanish Flu, the virus actually originated in Canton, China in 1918. For the most part, influenza pandemics arise in Asia and spread to the world from there. Amazingly, all influenza type A strains worldwide (except the recent ‘bird flu’) have been traced as descendants of the 1918 virus.

When the virus swept the world, 1/3 of the world population at the time- about 500 million people – were infected by this pandemic. It came in three waves. The first wave began March 1918, and illness rates were high, but death rates were not abnormally elevated. The second wave was Sep-Nov 1918 and highly fatal. In many places, a third wave occurred.

In May-June 1918, the British Army had 36,000 soldiers sick. This was part of the ‘First Wave.’ The illness was referred to as the ‘Three Day Flu’ at this time, as it was debilitating, but much as we experience the flu today. The ‘Second Wave’ manifested in late August of the same year, and it had mutated and now caused much more severe symptoms and result in victims. The Second Wave was characterized by sudden onset high fever, incapacitating aches and pains, severe headaches, and then sudden collapse and death within hours or days. At first doctors could not discern what the illness was, and there was contention that it was cholera, typhus, dengue fever, or botulism. The Third Wave was in February-April of 1919.

This illness was an ‘off-season’ flu, and occurred in three successive waves, with their short intermissions in a single year, and many of the infection periods were in seasons that are typically not favorable to the infection or spread of the disease. Whereas typical flu infections – where fatal – only cause death in the very old, and very young, The Spanish Flu was quite different, and was found to be significantly fatal to healthy young adults. The death rates for persons 15 to 34-years-old suffering from the flu or subsequent pneumonia in 1918-19 were 20 times higher than normal. Overall, about half the deaths from influenza during the period of the Spanish Flu were between the ages of 20-40.

Overall, The Spanish Flu caused approximately 50 million deaths worldwide. (1)

Scary Volcanoes
Krakatau

Mt. St. Helen's; that was small in comparison. In 1883 the Krakatau volcano erupted, and made for an astounding, catastrophic event. Krakatau is a volcano that lies between Java and Sumatra in SE Asia. The 1883 Krakatau eruption explosion was heard 4653 km/ 2838 mi away on Rodriguez Island in the Indian Ocean. It caused a tidal wave 120 feet high. There were over 36,000 people killed by the volcano's eruption, most from the tidal wave. Ash from the volcano plume after the eruption spread all the way to North America, causing strange sky colors and darkness to the extent that the NY Police and Fire Departments were called out in response to frantic requests from the public. The ash plume caused global temperatures to fall as much as 1.2 degrees C in the year after the eruption. (2)

Mt. Ranier Lahar

A lahar is a major landslide caused by a volcanic structure. The landslide is typically composed of a wet mass of volcanic debris, mud, snow, and water. Approximately 5,600 years ago there was a major lahar that flowed down the side of Mt. Ranier in Washington state. This type of flow of volcanic material is not lava, and is not the result of an eruption or disgorging of the interior of a volcano. It is a slide composed of the buildup of material on the outside of the volcano, much like an accumulation of snow in an avalanche. The slide occurs either from instability of the volcano itself, or just too much material on the side of the volcanic mountain which gives way and is released downhill. (Pic USGS)

The significance of the major Mt. Ranier lahar is that there was so much material with sufficient inertia to carry the slide all the way to Puget Sound, 30 miles away. There are now about 100,000 people living in the path below Rainer that would be affected by an event of the same magnitude occurring again. Metropolitan pressure has found an ever-growing population that wishes to live in the area, regardless the risks posed by the Mt. Ranier volcano. The threat level is of sufficient significance that there is now an early warning and detection system in place to ostensibly warn local residents of an impending lahar. This is not a deterrent whatsoever to expansion and continuing population growth around Mt. Ranier.

The major lahar 5,600 years ago was not a singular event. There have been at least 55 lahars in the valleys that drain Mt. Ranier that have occurred in the last 10,000 years. Since the great slide, there have been as many as 13 other slides. These lahars have a recurrence of approximately every 500 to 1,000 years. (3)

The Yellowstone Caldera
Wonderful Yellowstone Park, a natural preserve full of beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and geological marvels. The park enthralls 3 million visitors to

the park each year. The incredible world famous geysers and hot springs are the topside indication of the fact that… Yellowstone is the epicenter of an enormous volcano. It is called a caldera, a geological depression or basin that forms on top of a volcanic region or is the aftermath of a volcanic collapse. The Yellowstone Caldera is the most active region of a chain of calderas that extends all the way from Nevada to Montana. The activity of the Yellowstone Caldera Chain is visible with modern satellite sensing technology, to the extent that the magma flowing beneath the surface is visible. (Pic USGS)

Much like the volcanic chain on the Pacific coast of Washington State, comprised of Mts. Jefferson, Hood, St. Helens', and Ranier, the Yellowstone Caldera Chain is the sedate indication of boiling volcanic activity below. We are all accustomed to the majestic peaks of typical volcanoes, while the relatively mundane line of calderas belies the activity below.

Everyone remembers the Mt. St. Helens eruption, and what a cataclysmic event that was. A major eruption of the Yellowstone Caldera would absolutely dwarf that, and conceivably alter the atmosphere and climate of the entire planet. There have been three significant (known) eruptions of the Yellowstone Caldera. Here is a sobering fact- the first major eruption produced about 600 cubic miles of volcanic rock. To put it in perspective, that is 2,400 times more material than the Mt. St. Helen’s eruption. In the region of the Yellowstone Caldera there have been two major earthquakes in the park in 1959 and 1975. The baby caldera eruption, number three occurring about 600,000 years ago only spewed 240 cubic miles of rock.

Want to plan a nice vacation to the biggest bomb on the planet? The National Park System would be glad to have you visit Yellowstone. You can visit the official Yellowstone website. They don’t hide any of the facts about the consistent risk and geologic activity beneath the beautiful landscape. Just think- when you see Old Faithful shoot steam and water into the air, it may be the whistle of the approaching train. (4)

Asteroid Strike and the Extinction of the Dinosaurs.
It is widely believed by many scientists that a major asteroid strike caused the death of the dinosaurs. This is not universally considered ‘fact’ in the scientific community, but it is the leading theory for the curious death of animal life that dominated the planet for millions of years. What is known definitively is that an asteroid did strike the Yucatan Peninsula 65 million years ago. The asteroid is estimated to have been over six miles across, and upon striking the planet, created a crater 90 miles wide. The calculation for the speed of the object upon impact was 18 miles per second. By comparison, this is about 150 times faster than a jet airliner; furthermore escape velocity for spacecraft to make orbit is only 7 miles per second.

The date of the asteroid strike, 65 million years ago, coincides exactly with the extinction of the dinosaurs upon the Earth.

Paleontologists have found that the dinosaur species overall was thriving and well in the period leading up to the impact, and they were not in decline when the asteroid strike occurred. Another theory is that a major volcanic eruption caused the mass extinction. Consider this- regardless the natural cause- asteroid or volcano – an entire species of animal, with a population of millions was wiped from the Earth in a virtual instant in the overall (4.5 billion year) span of the history of our planet.

But back to that huge asteroid strike in the Yucatan- there's loads of stuff floating around up there, waiting for something to run into. Don’t think we could have a major asteroid strike on Earth? Ever looked at the surface of the moon? (Pic JPL) (5)

The Ice Age
Global warming. That’s all the rage, and we’re constantly harangued to reduce our carbon footprint, reduce greenhouse gases and move into solar-powered houses. Regardless your feelings on the subject – belief or not in the scientific validity of global warming – the overarching fact may be that it doesn’t matter. Not one bit. To wit- we are currently in what is known as an interglacial period in the current Ice Age. With all that talk about warming, you didn’t realize we were in an Ice Age, did you?

There have been at least four significant Ice Ages in the Earth’s history. The first one is speculated at having occurred about 2.5 billion years ago. The large one we’re in now began about 40 million years ago, and the particular present period is called the Pleistocene Epoch. This epoch began about 1.6 million years ago.

During a period classified as an Ice Age, ice sheets advance and recede, the oceans change temperature, and all sorts of climatic events take place on – you guessed it – the cold side of things. During an ice age, there are periods of more temperate and more frigid temperatures and conditions. The cold ones are called glacial periods, the warm ones- interglacials. We are currently in a period called the Holocene interglacial. Interglacial periods within an ice age cycle on about a 10-12,000 year stretch. There is some scientific evidence that the warm periods may cycle on a 28,000 year span. Regardless the time scale, we’re still in the middle of the warm part of the cycle.

There are no shortage on theories of exactly how and why ice ages occur. Solar activity, the Earth’s orbit oscillations called Milankovitch cycles, atmospheric buildup of CO2, etc. There are postulates and contentious points, just like there are with the big enviro scare of global warming. As an aside, the crazy part about the global warming movement is that, ironically, just in the 1970s there were many in the scientific community at large that were predicting an ice age or major global cooling.

How fast does an ice age come on? Another point of scientific contention, but there was a period of our recent history – 1300 to 1800 A.D. – that is factually recorded as a cold(er) period and is often referred to as a ‘mini ice age.’ The overall onset of the process, once it begins, is inexorable. More snow, more frozen water, more reflected heat back into space from the planet, causing more snow and ice, and so on.

The fact is that ice ages occur, and we have absolutely no control over them. You may not have to buy extra gloves and blankets yet, but for sure, somebody in your future family tree will have to. That, and deal with an incredibly shrinking livable planet surface and enormous pressure on resources and livability. (6)

Scary Summary
This is just a short list of the common catastrophes that can occur. There are still solar flares, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, ever-diminishing energy resources, acts of terrorism and of course, every other thing we do to sabotage our own existence on the planet. If there is a global event, we could all be in trouble at once. Even regional events like hurricanes or earthquakes can overload government support systems and services, commerce, and transportation - just as we've already seen in recent history -to the extent that it effects us all.

Whether we have boys or girls, our kids go to school, play with their friends, and maybe play sports or do other organized activities. If you don't have kids of your own, you sure do have nieces and nephews, friends with kids, etc. And kids are kids. And man- is it different from when we were kids! Remember when your parents used to say that, and you'd roll your eyes, and get back to watching Batman or playing sandlot baseball. We never paused to think that our parents might have only had radio, and played stickball. "Yeah-yeah-yeah; days were longer, rocks were heavier." Snore...

But things have changed. Cell phones. The internet. If your kids don't have something electronic in their hands at every moment they feel deprived.

So where did all the necessary elements of self-reliance and individual competence go? That's a long, long item for the commentary page. But what do we do (now) for our own kids (or kids we want to have or or perhaps we know)? Stuff for when the power goes out, a Katrina-like disaster strikes, or even simple life skills that the kids don't get at school. We should share the knowledge pool here, and I'm looking for reader contribution for us all to give what the next generation, our kids, need.

I grew up in the sticks, spent a good time in the Army, and have always been interested in being able to do stuff on my own. Now I have two boys, 8 & 12. Like all kids now, they have way too much crap. Too many toys; too many games; they want to watch too much TV. The whole child reality of today. It's like fighting the Pygmy Revolution when you try to get them to do and learn useful stuff.

Tough S. Rules at Daddy's house- work first (be it homework or chores); eat; showers and cleanup; free time. TV is limited to science or history shows. Yes, they get a shot of cartoons and such every once in a while, but that's a treat, not an entitlement. We've gone to - jeez, that I even have to call it this - 'rustic' nights. TV never comes on, no games; music and books only. At first I was sure to get a visit from Child Services for abuse. But the boys have gotten to dig it.

Now the actual learning stuff: thus far in our program, we've learned how to tie basic knots; how to sharpen a knife; how to start a fire with a magnesium fire-starting stick (yeah- dispel that TV thought of getting flames out of sticks); and how to sew a button. I've even let them run the steering and call out the gas or brake pedals while driving around a (very large) parking lot. They attend the kids' Jiu Jitsu class while I teach my class. Coming soon- how to use a compass and reading a map. There's a million other things I feel like I should teach them, and hope I get to before they blast out of the house and are out there on their own.

I don't have girls, so I don't have a whole lot of ideas on what I would teach them. I guess it would be a lot of the same things.

I would really like to hear from you, Alpha Dad reader. If you're a parent with kids. Not a parent yet but want kids. Or don't have kids of your own, you surely know some kids. What are things and skills you teach your kids. Things that we all should be teaching them? Send in your thoughts, your programs, your skills, and I'll put them in here. You can be extremely specific, or give general outlines on plans and programs.

In the heart of Berlin you will find the Radisson SAS Hotel, a 5-star jewel in the Radisson line. The Berlin Radisson is home to the largest cylinder aquarium in the world. The hotel has 427 rooms, with over 100 guest rooms facing the atrium that houses the Aquadom and offers direct view of the aquarium. (pic left- Jean Louis)

The aquarium, which is 52 feet high, is in the central lobby, and houses a crystal clear elevator that is in the center of the structure. The aquarium sits on a 29 foot pedestal, and tower

s above the lobby and rises into the atrium. (pic right- Reynolds)

There are larger aquariums of different types in the world, but none as beautiful and distinctive as the Aquadom. The architectural composition, lighting, design, and layout make the entire scene a superlative.

The aquarium project was designed and constructed by Reynolds Polymer Technology Incorporated. Reynolds Polymer is a Colorado firm that specializes in in thermoplastics and is responsible for numerous projects, from

aquariums to architectural structures and specialty projects and products.

The hotel is built upon the site of the previous Radisson hotel. Assembly of the aquarium was done on-site, and is a fantastic piece of construction. This incredible engineering feat is made of acrylic thermoplastic, and was constructed of 41 separate panels; 26 for the exterior wall, and 15 for the inner. (pic left/right- Reynolds)

The aquarium holds 250,000 gallons of water, is home to 2,500 exotic fish, and is decorated with beautiful reef landscapes. The aquarium is maintained by two full-time divers that also care for and feed the fish.

A ride in the clear central elevator takes visitors up the center of the aquarium as they ascend, and give a view of the entire atrium through the water and and aquatic life. (pic below- Jean-Louis)

The architectural space of the atrium is grand and sweeping, with open views top to bottom, with a causeway from the elevator landing to the surrounding rooms. The roof of the building is translucent, and bathes the interior in sunlight during the day, and is beautifully lit at night, with colored light accenting the entirety of the space. (pics below- Jean Louis)

The hotel is part of a large complex, in an ideal location in downtown Berlin. In the hotel itself, guests and visitors to the hotel are provided a visual treat and a breathtaking architectural marvel. A stay at the 5-star hotel is a bit pricey, with standard rooms for about $300, up to $700 for a junior suite. The experience and scenery are surely worth the price.

Special thanks to Jean-Louis for the use and display of his exceptional pictures of this fantastic structure.

The Audi R8. Up until now, the badge name Audi did not bring to mind supercars or speed, much less anything to be termed a 'chick-magnet.' The R8 has come to blow away any previous notions of Audis. The R8 has a 420 hp 4.2L V8 engine, with is mid-mounted for weight distribution, and a lowered center of gravity. The powerplant uses Audi FSI fuel injection, in which the fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber, increasing combustion efficiency and engine performance.

The body- aluminum and magnesium, creating a structure that Audi refers to as the Audi Space Frame.

Ride dampening and shock is mediated by a system with special fluid rather than oil, in which the viscosity is controlled by an electromagnetic field. This ride is adjusted by the car, and can be set to Sport or Standard. Handling is sent to new standards with permanent all-wheel drive, and four-wheel disc brakes; eight-piston calipers on the front, four-piston on the rear.

Performance: 0-60 in 4.6 seconds. Top speed- 187 mph. With 13/20 mpg fuel economy, and a 23.8 gallon fuel tank.

Available with a sequential six-speed manual that can be controlled either by the shift lever, or paddle toggles on the steering wheel. An automatic transmission is also available.

Every amenity possible for the interior- climate control with charcoal filtering, seven-speaker audio at 140 W, tire pressure monitoring, cruise control, see-through compartment glass over the engine, with LED lighting.

Color options on the '08- silver, blue, grey, black. An insert behind the doors, which Audi calls the ‘sideblade,’ is available in three shades of silver. This insert gives the car a very

distinctive look, and a racecar feel to the exterior appearance. 5-spoke wheels and low-profile tires.

College wrestling standout, athletic coach, professional fighter in the toughest sport on the planet, author and actor. Randy Couture has been a star that keeps on rising. A career built on work ethic, integrity, and the true fighter’s spirit- a desir

e to fight, and a desire to win. His athletic accolades span 25 years: three-time NCAA All-American in wrestling; three-time national Greco-Roman wrestling champion; ten years in MMA, where he has an unparalleled record- six-time champion in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC); only fighter to have held the championship title in the two weight divisions, of both the light-heavyweight and heavyweight classes; UFC Hall of Fame member. Look up Randy Couture on the internet, and his listings and accomplishments are simply phenomenal. And he may not even be done yet.

As his fight career progressed, Randy also worked on his business empire, establishing himself as an international powerhouse brand-name. He runs five businesses, has numerous endorsements, has appeared in seven motion pictures, and has his own line of gyms and products. He even has action figures in his likeness.

The list goes on and on; honors and accomplishments, in both athletics, professionally fighting at the highest competitive level, and in business. Randy has become an international celebrity and inspiration, as a star athlete and a businessman with steadfast integrity.

But Randy Couture is also – and perhaps more importantly – an exceptional man. A man with a family – wife and kids. He’s a military veteran. He is an exceptional role model to young fighters and athletes everywhere. And he has a non-profit foundation, with the express purpose of raising money and awareness for American troops wounded in action fighting the War on Terror. He is an exemplary figure in every way.

He represents everything that Alpha Dads work to be- he has tried to do it right, every time; reach the bar and exceed it. The champion was kind enough to do an interview with us. We have tried to bring you the significant parts about Mr. Couture – an Alpha Dad, a husband and father, and patriot.

Question- Alpha Dad: Where does Randy Couture come from? You have done it all in your athletic career, but where did your drive originate?
Answer- Randy Couture: I grew up in the suburbs of Seattle. My drive and motivation came from being raised by a single mother who worked two jobs to make ends meet. She instilled in me a work ethic that’s taken me a long way.

Q-AD: You’re an Army veteran. What did you do in the Army? What was your experience there?

A-RC: I was trained as a 93-J Radar to Air Traffic Controller. The Army discovered early on that I can wrestle and I spent most of my enlistment with the All-Army wrestling team. The highlights of my military experience were being the 101st Airborne Division, going through air assault school and PLDC.

Q-AD: Michael Jordan recently showed up on ESPN highlights. Even the greatest

basketball player of all time has become a little thick around the middle. You’re 44, and still fit at a competitive level (a bit to the embarrassment of the rest of us middle-agers). What have you done [in short] to stay so fit? When do you think you’ll finally slow down and maybe have to go up a pant size or two?

A-RC: I think all of us hope we never slow down or go up a pants size or two. I’ve managed to stay healthy, avoid serious injuries and train smarter to stay in competitive shape.

Q-AD: All the guys you have fought in the last few years are younger than you.

Sometimes a lot younger. There’s that adage- age and wisdom overcome youth and strength. What’s your take?

A-RC: I definitely believe in the old bull syndrome. Walk down and take ‘em all instead of running down and taking one of them.

Q-AD: As a pro fighter, competing in the most intense, hard-core sport in the world, how do you manage being a Dad and husband? Is it hard to switch off Randy Couture the fighter, and go home and be Dad and family man?

A-RC: One of the burdens of being a professional athlete is juggling the family life, as my second wife will attest to. My kids have especially helped me carry some of that burden. They have been very supportive. My new wife loves the sport of MMA and is involved in every aspect of my chosen profession, which makes it a lot easier to juggle.

Q-AD: What has kept you ‘grounded’ as you have gone from collegiate athlete, to pro fighter, to champion pro fighter, and now worldwide celebrity? Particularly in your more adult years, with kids, a family, and all the obligations of an athletic and business career?

A-RC: I think being grounded comes from my wrestling background. In wrestling about the time you think you’ve got it all under control and no one can touch you, you get your ass handed to you. Trust me- I’ve had my ass handed to me plenty of times. What became most important to me was to be myself no matter what success or failure I achieved.

Q-AD: How have your life objectives and interests changed as you have matured and progressed in life?

A-RC: I don’t think the objective has changed but I believe I have become more focused and less frivolous with my time. And much more difficult to distract.

Q-AD: How do you spend some of your ‘Alpha Dad time’ when you’re not training, fighting, or running your commercial interests?

A-RC: If I’m not training, fighting or taking care of my commercial interests, I prefer to be riding my bike or my quad or in the woods with my bow.

Q-AD: You really live up to the commitment to ‘give back;’ in time, effort and money. You’ve set up an incredible support organization – the Xtreme Couture GI Foundation – in a great partnership with AXIS Shavers (www.axisshavers.com)

and other companies. The foundation is dedicated to raise money and awareness for those service men and women that have been wounded in action. Readers can learn about the foundation’s mission, and how to donate/support the organization on the webpage - http://www.xtremecouturegifoundation.org/ .

What would you like our readers to know about this inspired work you’re doing?

A-RC: We just had our second event Operation All-IN Poker Tournament at the Hard Rock. We raised $93,000 for the Foundation. The Hard Rock and Jamie Gold were very gracious in their support. The event was a huge success. We’d like to receive letters from any families that are in need of our support to help us put this money where it will do the most good. Send email to gym@xtremecouture.tv or letter to Xtreme Couture GI Foundation 4055 West Sunset, Las Vegas, NV 89118. [Ed. note- you can also write or inquire to Alpha Dad: GIFoundation@alphadad.net]

Q-AD: What’s something we need to add to the List of Cool Man Stuff [current list: Chrysler Tomahawk; Cheytac M-200; Unique Performance GT 500, ‘Eleanor;’ Mike the Tiger (LSU mascot); the Miss GEICO Race Boat; Hot Wheels (No S!); Canon EF 500mm Super Telephoto Lens; distinctive Mark Shale shirt]. Give us at least one.

A-RC: An Xtreme Couture Skull Hoodie, of course!

Q-AD: Anything you’d like to add?

A-RC: I guess the two things I try to live by: “Check your ego at the door” – it’s going to do nothing but get in the way and “The best never rest.”

Special thanks to Mr. Couture for taking the time to sit for this interview. Alpha Dad readers should check out Randy’s brand line and gyms – Xtreme Couture Mixed Martial Arts- www.xtremecouture.tv. We would also request that everyone take a look at the Xtreme Couture GI Foundation – www.xtremecouturegifoundation.org, and support this charitable cause by donation.

-AP
JAN07

All photos are proprietary to Randy Couture, and Xtreme Couture MMA

Will MacNamara, also know as Big Mac, the owner of the training camp Tiger Muay Thai, has been a Friend of Alpha Dad since our inception. Will is an interesting character, with a remarkable story and life history that took him to Thailand, and eventually led to his ownership of the biggest and best Muay Thai training camp in that country. In the country where Muay Thai (Thai boxing) is the national sport, this is no small feat. His varied experience spans everything from being a semi-pro football player, to professional writer for newspapers - one of which is no les

s than USA Today - to Catholic missionary. Will is a graduate of the University of West Florida, is married with children, and lives on the idyllic island of Phuket in Thailand, where his residence Muay Thai training camp, Tiger Muay Thai, is located.

Ask anyone who has been to Thailand what they think of the country, every single one of them will tell you it is the most wonderful place they have ever been. The exceptional aspect on consideration of Thailand as a place to visit for Alpha Dads is that you can take a true adventure vacation there; you can train in Muay Thai in the best vacation destination in the world. Even if you've never trained in the sport, even if you have no experience in the martial arts at all, you can go to the Tiger Muay Thai camp and have the time of your life. Nice, clean accommodations, experienced friendly and professional trainers, training programs designed for everyone from beginners to pros doing pre-fight tune-up. All set in a sunny island atmosphere. To make the trip, it's more economical than vacationing in Hawaii. For what you would spend on a decent weeklong trip to Hawaii, you can spend a month training at Tiger. You can go alone if you choose, but as an excellent plus - you can take the whole family with you. If you, your significant other, or kids want to go, they can all train as well (really!), or spend their time in island paradise while you train once or twice a day. Great weather, inexpensive recreation and dining out, a peaceful and safe environment, beaches and unbelievably friendly locals make it a fantastic trip for the whole family.

Muay Thai is one of the most effective martial arts in the world. The style has been practiced for almost 750 years, and is the national sport of Thailand. With the incredible worldwide rise in the popularity of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) - the Ultimate Fighter Championship; Extreme Cagefighting; Pride; K1 - Muay Thai has gained recognition and practitioners far beyond Thailand, across the globe. Virtually all (successful) fighters in MMA practice Muay Thai for their stand-up combative style. You can practice and enjoy Muay Thai for the exercise and workout, but at the competitive level, it is not for the faint-of-heart. Boxing is a two-prong attack and defense (hands). Even kickboxing is only four elements (hands and feet). Muay Thai is an eight-part offense and def

ense (hands, feet, knees, and elbows). There has been growing interest in making Muay Thai an Olympic sport, but the contention comes from (primarily) the European combatives community- they will not allow knees or elbows above the shoulders. The Thais will never agree to this, as it's their national sport, and any limiting of the style is seen as dishonorable and perhaps even a bit cowardly. There are professional divisions for women in the sport, and in Thailand the first fight on the card at events are usually 6-8-year-olds [Note- this may seem a bit 'extreme,' but in Thailand the sport is viewed much as we see boxing; nothing wrong with younger kids practicing Golden Gloves or divisional competition. -Ed.]

With all this in mind, we have brought you the story of Mr. MacNamara and an explanation of what a stay at Tiger is like. If you've never thought of it before, we sincerely hope you put this trip on your 'Must-Do Before I Die' list.

Question- Alpha Dad: What initially brought you to Thailand? When/how long have you been there?

Answer- Will MacNamara: I came to Thailand to give time as a missionary working for the Catholic Church. Because of my education, I was soon promoted to Director of the English Division at the largest Catholic School on the island of Phuket. I have lived in Thailand and Phuket for 10 years

Q- AD: How did you initially get involved with TMT?

A-WM: I had a smaller gym in Chalong [A small town on Phuket.] as I was helping my original instructor in Muay Thai. I agreed with some partners to start a larger gym. They found the work difficult in dealing with Thai staff and the typical problems of day-to-day work in Thailand. I eventually took over as G.M. and quit my job with the Church to continue TMT.

Q- AD: Who are the people that you employ as trainers at TMT?

A-WM: This is what makes TMT special, and what I learned from training at other camps here on the island. The student to teacher ratio is very important. At other (to remain nameless) camps, there is a 10 student to 1 Instructor ratio, which is quite inadequate. 3-4:1 ratio or less is what it takes to learn Muay Thai properly. Our trainers list is long: Kru Yod, Multiple Muay Thai Champion, and Chinese “Kumate” Tournament winner 3 times. Kru Nazee with an incredible 390+ fights including 40 WBA/WBC boxing matches. Former #1 Fighter in Thailand for his age (voted by Muay Thai trade magazines), Ngoo, a young fighter that has a double career as a Muay Thai and MMA fighter. One of the first in Thailand. Ngoo has already fought in Russia and China and will have more fights this year. Mac, our Master Instructor, has 40 years Muay Thai experience and has trained multiple World Champions, Rajadamnoen, and Lumpinee Champions. Prathet, one of our best fighters and guest favorites, is an incredible fighter with a ton of heart and 250+ fights in Bangkok. I could go on as we carry 18 Muay Thai trainers at camp, and by far the best student to trainer ratio in the Kingdom of Thailand. Lest I forge

t, our MMA program is headed by Magical Ray Elbe. Not only a top level MMA fighter being ranked #5 all-time by Sherdog.com for wins by arm bar, Ray runs a tough and disciplined MMA program for beginners to advanced and is also captain of our International Fight Team- MMA Phuket.

Q- AD: Tell us about the expansion of the program(s) available at TMT to now include a significant MMA section.

A-WM: I am often asked, what separates TMT from the other Muay Thai camps. The best answer is our training programs. Nobody else in Thailand, gyms that is, offer programs for people of different levels. It does not make sense to have a guy that is learning how to punch in the same ring with someone with 10 years Muay Thai experience. Combine that with our professional facility with 3 rings, an MMA cage and rolling area, workout stations and professional lifting area, and you know why the Thai people are calling Tiger Muay Thai the future of Muay Thai gyms in the Kingdom.

It was Tiger Muay Thai that brought MMA to Thailand. We have w

orked very hard promoting the sport in the Kingdom. Endless letters to the Sport Authority of Thailand, discussions with police and government officials has all finally paid off. TMT has promoted more than 20+ MMA fights in the last year and with the addition of our UFC style cage, TMT looks to take MMA to another level in Thailand this year led by our head trainer, Magical Ray Elbe. Phuket will also begin hosting a Grappling Tournament and several independent MMA / Muay Thai shows in the cage in 2008.

Q- AD: After watching literally hundreds of Muay Thai fights, as well as MMA bouts, describe what you feel is the advantage in using Muay Thai for the standup in MMA competition.

A-WM: For striking skills, there is no better martial art in the world. The use of the whole body with hands, knees, elbows, and kicks provides a solid striking base and techniques that can be used in MMA-style fighting, from clinch to elbow strikes to power leg kicks to knees to the body. And the Thai fighters are known for their no-nonsense and hardcore training style.

Q- AD: From the MT program- detail some of the success that TMT guests have had in competition there in Thailand in their bouts. Also how have they done internationally after training at TMT.

A-WM: I have to brag about our current winning streak as we (guests and TMT Instructors) are 24-3 over our last 27 fights, including both Muay Thai and International MMA fights. We specialize as a gym that helps prepare fighters for upcoming Muay Thai and MMA fights in their home country. Last year we prepared 40+ fighters for fights in their countries and we won 31 and lost 9, but every guest said they got the hardcore training they expected from their time in Thailand. Last year we won 2-World Muay Thai titles, 6 stadium Championships and 5 MMA Championship fights.

Q- AD: How many pros do you have doing tune-up/fight prep currently?

A-WM: We maintain about 12-15 professional Thai fighters training alongside our trainers. Usually, 20-30% of our guests are professional fighters in Muay Thai and MMA and train in our advanced programs.

Q- AD: Overall, who are the students/guests that come to TMT? From where? Typical ages? Typical professions?

A-WM: We have guests from around the world. Currently we have had guests from 38 countries, especially, England, Sweden, Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Finland, Norway, Germany, and many others.
We get police officers, soldiers on break, housewives, women fighters, people looking to lose weight and get fit. What they all have in common is they are looking for a quality gym with a good atmosphere.

Q- AD: What do most people come to TMT to accomplish? (Just to take a couple weeks on an adventure vacation, or more to really start or continue learning MT?).

A-WM: Being in Phuket, we often struggle with the “Tourist Camp” label. Yes, about 50% of our students are just here to experience Muay Thai and MMA for fun and experience. The other 50% are serious fighters. No drinking, smoking, or night out on the town. Training is serious and hardcore two (2) times per day. That is why we promote our International Fight and Promotion Team: MMA Phuket. Live cheap and train in Thailand and fight around the world. The system seems to work as Team MMA Phuket has gone from 3 members to 15 in the last year.

Q- AD: How is coming to TMT in Phuket an advantage to attending one of the gyms in Bangkok or other places?

A-WM: As I mentioned before, Tiger is no “hole in the wall gym.” We have the #1 facility for training in Phuket, and probably Thailand. We keep the highest ratio of trainers to students at 3-4:1 so guests get the most 1-on-1 training they can. We have the #1 MMA program in all of Thailand. However, many guests would say, it's the atmosphere. From guest-services department that looks after our guests, to camp events like parties, BBQ’s, exhibition smoker fights at camp as entertainment, and of course, the only gym in Thailand with specific training programs based on the level of the guests experience. We even have high-speed internet. Guests that have trained at other gyms often show up at TMT as say the same thing: “TMT is the most organized and professional gym they have visited in Thailand.”

Q- AD: On coming to Thailand- give us some of the positive aspects of visiting Thailand for the relaxing vacation, as well as the adventure vacation.

A-WM: While Phuket is a little more expensive than Bangkok or Chiang Mai, TMT keeps our prices the lowest on the island and similar to pricing in Chiang Mai. You don’t have to gouge people’s pocketbooks to run a successful business. Phuket is worth every baht [Thai currency- Ed.]. From the beaches, to night-time entertainment, and the infrastructure of the island, Phuket has it all. There is a reas

on: Phuket is the #1 tourist destination in S.E. Asia.

Q- AD: When people come to TMT, as a couple, or even as a family, what can the others in the family do with their time, either at TMT, or during the day, while Dad (or Mom!) does his training.

A-WM: Beaches, massage, sauna, bike trips, elephant rides, ATV riding, paintball games, shooting range, golf, scuba diving, Muay Thai fight nights, fishing, tropical island tours, speed boat tours, cave exploring, visiting Buddhist temples, horse back riding, Phuket Zoo where you can touch the animals, bungie jumping and water skiing, jet ski, and much more.

Q- AD: Over time, particularly in moving from the US to Thailand, how have your objectives and interests changed over time (as you matured). Basically- how has your life and goals, as well as your personal interests changed as you became an Alpha Dad?

A-WM: It is difficult running a business and raising a family. As many guests here already know, I take my responsibility seriously providing a resort for guests on vacation around the world. People work hard to save and travel to Thailand. They

deserve to be treated with respect and helpfulness.

You could never have convinced me with my education background that I would be a Muay Thai gym owner, but one of the benefits is all the incredible people you meet, just like yourself Alex [That's me. -Ed.]. I could fly into 20 countries around the world and not have to worry about a hotel or taxi. I have made a lot of good friends from around the world by meeting people at the camp which is very satisfying.

Q- AD: How do you manage the Alpha Dad reality and being head of TMT?

A-WM: Patience…oh, by the way, did I mention more patience.

Q- AD: When you’re not involved in the business (every minute of every day! ha), what do you do with your Alpha Dad time?

A-WM: My kids are my life, and my wife. I like to read and work on the net. I specifically learned code and design work for internet for TMT and I am responsible for all eight of our associated web pages. I like to golf and go to the beach with my family. Obviously, I am also passionate about MMA and Muay Thai.

Q- AD: You have to add something, at least one, to the Alpha Dad list of Cool Man Stuff.

A-WM: I really dig the Mac Pro. It's the ultimate expandable MAC and the #1 Computer for Video Editors. 8-Core up to 32 GB Ram, 3.2

GHZ processor. That's processing power and great for working video and media! [A super Mac for Big Mac! - Ed.] Oh- and I also would have listed the coming Dodge Challenger, but that's already listed!

Q- AD: Anything else you wish to add? Anything under the sun. Your section to talk about any aspect/item you wish to.

A-WM: I would like to thank you for being such a great patron of our training camp. From your work on our instructor training program to inviting me for this interview, you have been a good friend and patron of our camp and liked by all our trainers. I wish you and Alpha Dad all the best.

Special thanks to Will for taking time away from his hectic schedule to give us an interview and the rundown on TMT. Alpha Dad readers should check out the Tiger website - www.tigermuaythai.com - for a more comprehensive look at the camp, training options, accommodations, and pricing. Special tip- if you mention this article, you can end up with a nice premium on your booking at Tiger! Ask about the promotion; just write an inquiry to info@tigermuaythai.com.

Note- as of this writing, a quick check on airfare shows a round-trip ticket to Thailand (Houston International IAH to Bangkok BKK) at about $1,000, with a two-week departure reservation. For the same time-frame and start point, it's about $600 to fly to Hawaii. Try and get a (decent) hotel room in Hawaii for less than $150-200 a night. Do the math; a trip to Thailand is well worth it. To take a stay at Tiger Muay Thai would make it just perfect.

It's '08 already, and some of the mean-machines are still here, some to be brought back from the dead, and some finally to make their way to the US market. Here are just a few hot rides that are due out this year, or in the near future. Thought you might like to add one to your financial planning alongside the college fund for the kids.

Dodge Viper The monster has been made even more menacing, if that was

possible. Now with an 8.4 L (510 ci) V-10 engine, generating 600 hp, and 560 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 in less than 4 seconds. 6-speed manual. 18” front, 19” rear wheels, with monstrous 275 front and 345 rear tires. The color schemes available are the traditional Viper red, a hot maroon, the previous dark blue, and now an insane green skin. With a redesigned hood and some tweaking to overall body aesthetics, the Viper continues to remain innovative and desirable. About $90K

Nissan Skyline GT-R 480 hp 3.8 L V-6, with 430 lb-ft of torque. AWD. Has Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC-R), with Normal (daily driving), R-Mode (performance), and Off. 6-speed transmission, also with three selectable modes- Normal, Snow, and R-Mode (performance). Tires are 255 front and 285 rear on 20” rims. The Skyline has been available overseas for a number of years, and has yet to make its re-debut here in the states (note the right-hand drive of the promo model). Nissan enthusiasts, with tastes along the lines of the last-generation

RX-7, have been awaiting a high-performance model that isn’t a decent ride (Maxima) with a lot of add-on performance. Nissan has decided to enter the horsepower and performance wars with domestic makers, and provide a high-end serious contender in the category. Another high-performance model in the $90K range.

Chevrolet Camaro Still considered a 'concept' car, but slated for production, the Camaro will be a RWD, four-passenger coupe. Retro look to the interior. Featured

as a teaser, and major tie-in to the blockbuster movie Transformers, if you saw the movie, you caught the screaming yellow model on display. Performance has not been officially stated, but expect stats at least equal to the Ford Mustang, with optional power upgrades. In the Mustang, the stock engine is an anemic 210 hp 4.0 L V-6, but a 4.6 L V-8 with 300 hp is available. There is also the GT 500 model, with a 500 hp, 5.4 L V-8, and six-speed transmission. It is a sure bet that Chevrolet will produce baseline models in line with the Ford

offerings, as well as a performance model or two to compete with the top tier versions of the Mustang. The MSRP on the GT-500 is $42,000 base, so expect that all pricing, from top-performance on down, will be in line with this type of figure.

The Pontiac Firebird and Dodge Challenger have caused considerable buzz at concept shows. As the Mustang continues to have exceptionally popularity, particularly in the performance and horsepower wars, it is quite likely that Pontiac and Dodge will bring these two models into production. Again- with comparable performance to the entry-level Mustang, all the way up to the high-end performance GT 500. Pricing is likely to mirror the Ford as well, with entry vehicles likely going for $20-25,000, and performance models pushing $40-50,000. I would venture that much of the external reshaping to modern tastes will be married to a lot of retro interior and dashboard representation like the new Camaro.

The Firebird has been teased for production in 2010, but with heavy success in the middle-range affordable performance cars (see above, to include the Chevy Corvette), it may move Pontiac to move that release up and ensure its own vehicle in this very popular performance bracket.

The Challenger will surely come with an SRT8 model with a heavy dose of horsepower and performance. The preliminary promo on the Challenger claims 425 hp from a V-8 Hemi in the limited run of the SRT8 trim. Dodge claims it has already received 4,300 deposits on a vehicle not even in production yet. Let’s hope this level of desirability in the pony car will ensure its coming to life, providing numerous options and power packages.

Overall If you find yourself in a good spot financially, this may be the year you can buy a real performer, from a variety of manufacturers, in a good range of pricing. From about $30,000 to $90,000, you can obtain the car of your dreams. One that will likely smoke anything else that lives in the neighborhood, or resides in your friend’s garage.

All pix proprietary to their respective manufacturers, as listed in the article.