Italian-American male, strong cyclist and physically fit, would like to meet a woman with whom to share experiences, both spur-of-the-moment as well as planned, who would not rule out the possibility of at some point developing a closer relationship if the ingredients were there, the desire was mutual, and the effects beneficial and harmonious.

With my sign (Leo) I have found Pisces, Gemini, Libra or Sagittarius women the most compatible in terms of personality. I know astrology gets a bad rap from those who consider it an archaic anti-scientific process, but my experience has shown some validity to the personality charting process if done accurately, not so much to the predictive side.

A woman's choice of lifestyle, fitness level, and health maintenance are more important to me than chronological age. I do have a preference for women whose figures lean toward that of the active or athletic. However I have no specific preferences for any of the other typical appearance variables.

Regularly complete three 2-hour rides, and one 4-hour, 58-mile ride each week. Perform calisthenics daily. Not expecting a lady to match or exceed any of this. It would be nice if it's there, but she should be active to the extent required to maintain a healthy lifestyle that complements and harmonizes with my own.

Rescue dogs (the ONLY type of rescuing I do)and own a personally rescued female Bichon Frise.

Some personal traits:
* Abhor animal cruelty, and will even the score if I witness any (have the means).
* Will stop traffic to relocate any stray animal on the road.
* Non-smoker/non-drinker, non-drug user.
* 24-year Tampa resident originally from New York City.
* Have no children from previous marriage (24 years) or any other way.
* Value guy friends for shared interests.
* Pledge allegiance to God, Country, Friends, and Loved Ones. Not to a franchised sports team.
* Have never been a serial dater and don't intend to start now.
* Come complete with a zany and dry sense of humor.
* Respect for the individual.
* Disdain group-think.
* Good listening skills.
* Ability to keep a secret.
* Willingness to forgive and forget slip-ups and blunders.
* Suspend judgment until all facts are collected.
* Excellent carpentry and handyman skills.
* Long-term home ownership.
* Responsible marksman.
* Continual intellectual curiosity (former MENSA member).

ABOUT YOU:

It's difficult being objective about what qualities I value in a woman, especially one I've not met before. From my past relationships, though, I've learned what I don't want to live without in a companion. So, you should:

1. Agree that intellectual and personal compatibility by itself isn't enough to nourish the soul. There should be physical attraction for each. The more intense the better.

2. Be tactile (not tactful) open, affectionate, maybe even seductive and flirtatious.

3. Enjoy your own pursuits as well as those we partake of jointly.

4. Welcome demonstrativeness, sometimes even in public.

5. Be sensual, have a kick-ass sense of humor, playfulness, and a good sense of fashion and style.

6. Own up to being in touch with your inner child, the girl who loves nothing more than to tease and play games with uncertain outcomes.

Some of this might sound superficial. But as a Leo and an Italian I am captivated by a woman who knows how to put herself together with a certain subtle "stage presence" and visual seductiveness. After the workout session has ended, and the shower is over, great shoes, clothes and scent are the perfect statement.

After getting to know a little about each other through one or two emails and maybe a telephone conversation, meet for cycling or a walk on the Pinellas Trail, the Suncoast Trail, or at Flatwoods Park in New Tampa. Also have done walks and talks on Dunedin's Main Street, at Mullet Key (Ft. Desoto Park), at the Pier in downtown St. Pete, at the Tarpon Springs sponge docks, and even at the Citrus Park Mall.