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Reading Less, writing more. Or "How I learned to hate Twitter and Facebook"

I love knowing what my friends and family are up to. I love finding out about the latest thoughts going on within my peer groups. I enjoy reading many blogs, newsletter and emails. I used to regularly get over 400 emails a day including group/mailing list traffic, followed over a thousand people on Twitter and was friends with more than 250 people on Facebook. I subscribed to over 200 blogs. I read all of it, all the time.

Mix in LinkedIn, reddit, Hacker News and a few other corners of the web, and we’re suddenly talking about a lot of data flowing into my head.

I’m led to believe that some even value the contributions I make myself from time to time.

However, I’m about to start dialling all that down. I’ve made a start in some places, but over time I’m going to stop reading anywhere near as much short-form (twitter, Facebook, etc.), a little less medium-long form (blogs), and use the time to start reading longer form work again (books) and creating more.

The reason is not because of burn-out, cynicism or some other excuse: I’m not arguing that it’s all pointless, and I’m not being a Luddite. I just want to create more, and there are only so many hours in the day.

This was prompted by going back over my resolutions posted here in December, and realising I’ve made little progress:

  • I need to get my weight down. I’m finally prepared to do something about it.
I’ve been doing a lot of reading up on this in recent months. Worried that as I attempted to cut calories I actually gained weight, I decided to go back to the science the calorie-counting diets are based on and made a shock discovery: there is no science.
There is absolutely no evidence that calorie counting works. Not one experiment has been able to show that calorie-counting is successful.
Managing carbohydrates? Different story.
I’d like to write about this some more, and I’d like to share my diet in detail and provide some raw data almost “live”. Consider it a series of scientific experiments on one person done in public. I need to think about the details of doing this more, but this is one resolution that I need to kick up a gear on above any other.
  • I want to create more, so will aim to not go more than two or three consecutive days without working on something creative in 2012. It could be writing (here, for example), it could be code for a personal project, or it could be something I’ve never really tried before (music? art? Don’t know yet). I basically want to spend less time reading/consuming and more time doing stuff. David Tate provides excellent inspirationif you want to consider doing the same. I’ll try to document as much of that as possible here.
I have failed at this dismally. I mean, really, really, really badly. I get to be quite creative in my work, but that wasn’t the goal here. My goal was to be somebody who contributed more online than I took, and in that respect, I’ve failed dismally.
I have a lot of ideas in this regard as to how to correct this fault, but it’s going to take a few weeks of planning to commit to it. I know by reading less social network commentary, blog output and community websites, I’m going to have more time to do that planning, and also to create things.
I work long days, and have just a few hours a day in which to address this, so please be patient with me.
  • I’m going to try and shift from always being behind/late for almost everything going on in my life, to being early. I don’t know how I’m going to do this, but I suspect if I can pull it off, I’ll be calmer and happier as a result.

This, I am happy to report, seems to have actually happened for the most part. Public transport not withstanding - including my own self-sabotage - I tend to be where I need to be on-time (or early), far more than I was last year.

Back to the main point: by reading what’s going on out there, by trying out new apps, by listening to all these voices, I am feeling engaged and plugged in, but only as a consumer. The purpose of the Internet is not to simply consume but to create, amend, edit, destroy, vandalise and promote. Ideas, content, products, whatever.

Also, am I the only one who has noticed how exhausting this hosepipe of information can be on a daily - even hourly - basis? I’m tired of consuming. It’s worse than television - at least with television an editor or commissioner has attempted to do some curation.

So I’m not departing, I’m not shutting down accounts, I’m just going to read a great deal less online, to the point the relevant apps might disappear off my phone. In return, I should be able to produce a few new things to share. Watch this space!




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Google Sandbox, Teoría y Efecto. Como salir de Google SandBox.

¿Qué es el efecto o teoría de Google Sandbox? Es un filtro que se supone que exista y que esta siendo aplicado a los nuevos sitios Webs publicados. Este filtro impide que ante determinadas búsquedas las páginas del sitio alcancen las primeras posiciones, en relación con lo competitivas que sean las palabras clave de la búsqueda. ¿Como salir del sandbox? Algunas alternativas...




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Zillow and Trulia Remain Irrelevant in Austin Real Estate Market

Both Zillow.com and Trulia.com could vanish tomorrow, completely – websites crash and stay down forever –  and it would make ZERO difference, at all, in the successful sale of any home in Austin TX, or elsewhere in the U.S. Period. There is no hardship or selling disadvantage created for sellers or their listing agents if their real estate listings do not appear on these real estate entertainment and advertising websites because it is not the purpose of these consumer portal sites to sell homes, but instead to sell advertising to Real Estate Agents. These consumer sites not only fail to cause homes to sell, the websites fail to create smarter, better educated buyers and sellers. Instead, they create consumers exposed to bad data, and too much of it. Including the ridiculous Zestimate, which everyone knows is inaccurate but which nonetheless remains the “favorite” feature of Zillow.com users, according to Zillow. ... Read more



  • Austin Real Estate

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Leasing a Home in Austin TX – Then and Now

When Sylvia and I started leasing and managing rentals in Austin in the early 1990s, the business operation was phone-based. I had a phone, answering machine, and spiral pad on a desk in our kitchen nook. All business happened there. I also had a Windows PC, a 386 with a dot matrix printer which ran the DOS version of my property management software. If you don’t know what 386, DOS or “dot matrix printer” means, you’re probably less than 40 years old. Oh, it probably had a 2400 baud modem as well, and a 50 meg hard drive. It wasn’t until 1996 that I put up my first website and started using email for business. All rental inquiries thus originated with a phone call to that one phone. It was a “single channel” communication system. Those callers either saw a yard sign or a 3-line ad in the Rentals section ... Read more




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The Crossland Team is Back at Keller Williams Realty Austin SW Market Center

And the real estate journey continues … Sylvia and I started Crossland Real Estate in Jan 1993, and remained independent until we sold our property management portfolio in 2004 and “retired” for a year. We didn’t actually formally retire … more of a sabbatical … as we were still in our 40s with kids 9 and 12. But we did take a year off from active real estate “production”. We weren’t sure whether we wanted to remain in real estate forever or not. I started a telecom services company and dabbled in Business Brokerage, both of which were interesting pursuits worthy of a full effort, and which I could have succeeded at doing, but after some time off from the daily real estate routine, something happened… The phone rang. It was Real Estate. It wanted us back. Sometimes distance from something brings perspective and a renewed appreciation of it. So, ... Read more



  • Austin Real Estate
  • Business and Technology

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Your Austin Real Estate Investment and Wealth Building

What effect does "negative cash flow" real estate have on the growth of your Net Worth over time?




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Understanding the Recent NAR Commissions Lawsuit: A Realtor’s Perspective

The recent lawsuit involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and subsequent news coverage have sparked significant discussion within the Realtor community. I’d like to take this opportunity to share my perspective on the home buying and selling process, how Realtors are compensated, and the concept of ‘Uncompensated Effort.’ Realtors earn what is known as a ‘Success Fee.’ Essentially, we provide all our services for free until the transaction is closed and funded, at which point we receive a commission. Efforts that do not result in a closing are what I call ‘Uncompensated Effort.’ Every Realtor incurs this overhead, and it’s an integral part of a system that benefits consumers. Both buyers and sellers appreciate this system because it allows them to access services at no cost, even if they never purchase a home or their property doesn’t sell. For example, a buyer might contact an Austin Realtor based on ... Read more




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Landlords and Property Managers Rejoice!

The Supreme Court’s recent decision to strike down the “Chevron decision” heralds what could be the end of the absurd Emotional Support Animal (ESA) scams that have plagued landlords and property managers since HUD administratively stretched Fair Housing laws to include anyone claiming “anxiety” or “whatever”. This administrative rule—not a law—created a loophole that tenants have widely exploited. By purchasing a bogus $50 “doctor’s note” online, tenants can present themselves as “disabled” applicants and scare landlords and Property Managers into granting their “request for reasonable accommodation” for their 100-pound pit bull, under threat of a HUD lawsuit for “discrimination.” We are not talking about legitimate Service Animals, such as seeing-eye dogs for the blind or extensively trained PTSD alert dogs for combat veterans. Those are 100% legitimate disabilities and those specially trained animals should never be declined by any landlord, under actual law. Instead, we’re addressing self-proclaimed “disabled” tenants who ... Read more



  • Austin Real Estate

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ONGC’s Discovery of Five New Oil and Gas Sources Boosts Indian Industry

India’s Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) recently announced the discovery of five new oil and gas sources, marking a significant development for the country’s energy industry. These discoveries were made in multiple regions, both onshore and offshore, and promise to strengthen India’s position in the global energy landscape. One of the most notable discoveries is the PURN-1 well, located in block CB-ONHP-2019/1. This well was drilled to explore the hydrocarbon potential of the Olpad and Kadi formations. During testing, the well produced viscous oil after heat treatment, establishing the presence of oil and gas in the area and opening up new exploration opportunities. Another important discovery is the West Matar-2 well, drilled in the Matar Addl area. This well explored the hydrocarbon potential of the Hazad Formation and resulted in the production of oil and gas in commercial quantities. This discovery is significant as it establishes the commercial viability of the GS-6 and GS-8 sands in the West Matar field. In the offshore sector, ONGC made a promising discovery in the B-56-2 well located in the Tapti-Daman area off Mumbai. This well explored the hydrocarbon potential of the Panna and Bassein formations and produced gas in commercial quantities. This...




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Libya’s Oil Industry in 2024: Challenges and Prospects

In 2024, Libya’s oil industry is navigating a complex landscape marked by both significant challenges and promising opportunities. The Libyan National Oil Corporation (NOC) has set ambitious goals to increase production capacity to two million barrels per day within the next three to five years. Currently, the country produces approximately 1.3 million barrels per day, with plans to boost this by an additional 100,000 barrels per day by the end of the year. Despite these aspirations, Libya’s oil sector continues to grapple with political instability. The country faces ongoing clashes between rival governments, which have historically disrupted oil production and exports. In recent years, these conflicts have led to the shutdown of key oil fields and ports, severely impacting the nation’s oil output and revenues. However, there are signs of recovery and growth. The NOC is preparing to launch its first oil and gas licensing round in nearly two decades, aiming to attract international investment and revitalize exploration activities. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance production and reduce the burning of associated gas by 83% by 2030. Additionally, Libya is making strides in infrastructure development. A notable project is the $600-million oil refinery near the El...




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Large Oil and Gas Reserves Discovered in Pakistan’s Territorial Waters

Recently, a significant reserve of oil and gas was discovered in Pakistan’s territorial waters. This finding came after a three-year geographical survey conducted in collaboration with a friendly country. The identification of these reserves could mark an important milestone for Pakistan’s economy. The discovery was confirmed by a detailed study that mapped the exact location of the deposits. The reserves found are considered substantial and have the potential to transform Pakistan’s economy, which currently faces significant financial challenges. The exploitation of these reserves could provide a new source of revenue and reduce the country’s dependence on energy imports. Energy sector experts highlight that, although the discovery is promising, it is still in the early stages of exploration. Considerable investments in infrastructure and technology will be needed to efficiently extract and process the oil and gas. Additionally, the sustainable management of these resources will be crucial to ensure that the economic benefits are long-lasting. The Pakistani government has already been informed about the discovery and is taking steps to initiate exploration activities. The expectation is that, over time, these reserves could significantly contribute to the country’s economic growth, creating jobs and boosting industrial development.




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GlobalData Report: Oil and Gas Industry Slows Energy Transition Efforts

According to the latest GlobalData report, the oil and gas industry is experiencing a slowdown in its energy transition efforts. The report highlights that despite the growing global emphasis on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, the pace at which the oil and gas sector is adopting renewable energy and other green technologies has decelerated. This slowdown is attributed to several factors, including economic uncertainties and fluctuating oil prices. Investment Shifts and Challenges The report points out that while there has been a significant investment in renewable energy projects, the overall commitment from major oil and gas companies has not met the expected levels. Companies are facing challenges in balancing their traditional fossil fuel operations with the need to invest in cleaner energy sources. The economic pressures and the need to maintain profitability in a volatile market have led to a cautious approach towards large-scale investments in renewable energy. Ravindra Puranik, Oil and Gas Analyst at GlobalData, commented on the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on energy security. He noted that the resultant supply chain disruptions have driven countries towards readily available fossil fuels, thereby boosting oil and gas demand. Puranik also highlighted that the push for energy self-reliance and high...




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1986 Suzuki LS 650 Savage from New Zealand

A surprisingly able and well performing mini cruiser/commuter




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How to Sell Digital Products Online with Google Drive and PayPal

Learn how to sell digital products like PDF ebooks, photos, music, videos and other digitally downloadable files through Google Drive and PayPal. Customers can buy your product through 1-step checkout and the files are delivered to them by email.

The post How to Sell Digital Products Online with Google Drive and PayPal appeared first on Digital Inspiration.




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How to Track your Study Time with Google Forms and Sheets

Learn how to use Google Forms as a time tracking app for studies and analyze how much time you spend on each subject. You can also analyze the study pattern with charts inside Google Sheets.

The post How to Track your Study Time with Google Forms and Sheets appeared first on Digital Inspiration.




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Workaround for IP Locator and Safari 3 beta

Safari 3 beta breaks widgets that use the search history feature of search input field types. I have put together a version of IP Locator with that feature disabled for anyone who wants to continue using it with the broken version of Safari. You can download it here. A bug has been filed with Apple and I suspect this will be a fairly high priority fix considering how many Dashboard widgets are affected.




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Vets Abandonment

There is a class action lawsuit working its way through the court initiated by disabled Vets who served in Iraq. The meat of it is simple-The Department of Veterans Affairs failed to provide adequate medical care for the numerous afflictions suffered by these men and women. So far the suit has claimed at least one casualty-Mr. Nicholson, DVA Secretary, resigned and headed for the hills, but is still on the supoena list.

Mr. Bush, acting as a President, instructed US attorneys to argue Veterans were not entitled to mental health benefits which befuddled many of us. Even the DVA agrees that up to 80% of those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan will return with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and this bothers George. Bean counters are always disturbed when more money than necessary has to be spent on what they regard as trivial matters. Again, avidly pursue the war, but forsake those who pursue is the apparent rally cry of this administration.

Mr. Bush delivered a rah-rah speech yesterday again declaring victory in Iraq, but failed to address adequate Veterans medical care. This nation, great as it is, began developing a forsaking reputation towards Vets during the Vietnam War and extended it though Desert Storm to now the current conflicts. He and his minions do not seem to understand not only the human suffering involved, but also the impact upon the families. As one who understands the words abandonment and betrayal by the government, a whole generation is now developing even more distrust of the government which equates even lower enlistment rates. What can one expect when GIs are treated like numbers and then discarded when their usefulness is expended.

It is sad our nation has come to this, but signs were there all along-the tsunami, hurricane Katrina, etc. Mr. Bush hesitated, procrastinated and finally decided to help after thousands had suffered or lost their lives. Mark my words, it will eventually come to the point where attorneys will accompany prospective recruits to insure adequate clauses for medical treatment are part of enlistment contracts. This administration spends over a billion dollars monthly in Iraq, but cannot afford to assist a former combat veteran with an affliction costing only a small amount.

George Bush should have been drafted, served in Vietnam and then returned home to negativity not only from many, but the government as well. Perhaps, then he would have learned respect not only for our Nation's Active Duty/Veterans, but also for basic human values. Instead he went AWOL for up to 18 months while in the National Guard after losing his flight status and encrusted himself in cynicism. We should all hang our heads in sorrow over the treatment of our Veterans particularly for those 150 Vets committing suicide weekly-the greater number of which are National Guard who served in the war and then were shuffled out before disability claims could be tendered. The Bush Administration and Pentagon saved that money at the expense of this Nation's soul.




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Tragic Shooting and The Rush To Absolve


A tragic Tucson shooting prompted conservatives to hurriedly scrub websites of anti-Rep. Gabby Giffords' comments. The right wing launched a massive communications effort to absolve any responsibility for creating the volatile national setting resulting in this tragedy. It was predictable to await citing of Ronald Reagan's statement stating the individual, not society, as the cause; individuals must accept responsibility for their actions. Ironically, Reagan is not the ideal role model for this since he broke the law numerous times as President and was not accountable for his actions. There was no mention of creating the fear and paranoia which fomented violence.

"For example, we're on Sarah Palin's targeted list, but the thing is, that the way that she has it depicted has the crosshairs of a gun sight over our district. When people do that, they have to realize that there are consequences to that action," Rep. Gabby Giffords said in an interview with MSNBC.

"Hang on, let me just tell you what I'm thinking. I'm thinking about killing Michael Moore, and I'm wondering if I could kill him myself, or if I would need to hire somebody to do it. No, I think I could. I think he could be looking me in the eye, you know, and I could just be choking the life out -- is this wrong? I stopped wearing my What Would Jesus Do band, and I've lost all sense of right and wrong now. I used to be able to say, "Yeah, I'd kill Michael Moore," and then I'd see the little band: What Would Jesus Do? And then I'd realize, Oh, you wouldn't kill Michael Moore. Or at least you wouldn't choke him to death." "And you know, well, I'm not sure. " Glenn Beck, before the Tucson massacre.

"We Christians would do well to adopt the Muslim strategy. When someone sues to remove the Ten Commandments from a public area, attack, beat and maybe even KILL them. When a federal appeals court rules that Christian Nativity Scenes in New York Schools can be banned while Jew Menorrah's [sic] a[nd] Muslim Crescents can remain in the same schools, the Judges on that court should be attacked, beaten and if necessary, KILLED."
— Hal Turner, Commentator, Website post attacking " JEW NEWSPAPERS," Feb. 6, 2006


"If this Congress keeps going the way it is, people are really looking toward those Second Amendment remedies." Sharon Angle, failed Nevada candidate for representative and avid Tea Party member.

“It’s ok. Christina Taylor Green was probably going to end up a left wing bleeding heart liberal anyway. Hey, as ‘they’ say, what would you do if you had the chance to kill Hitler as a kid? Exactly.” Tweeted to Palin's Twitter account. Ms. Green, 9 years old, was killed during the shooting.

"We should do to the LIBERALS what Hitler did to the JEWS. Give them a chance to renounce LIBERALISM; if they do not, send them to the ovens. Tweeted to Palin'sTwitter account.

Patriotic Americans don't have to become dangerous psychotics like liberals, but they could at least act like men. Why hasn't the former spokesman for the Taliban matriculating at Yale been beaten even more senseless than he already is? According to Hollywood, this nation is a cauldron of ethnic hatreds positively brimming with violent skinheads. Where are the skinheads when you need them? What does a girl have to do to get an angry, club- and torch-wielding mob on its feet? Ann Coulter, Columnist.


Fox and Friends host Brian Kilmeade declared, "Not all Muslims are terrorists, but all terrorists are Muslims." (My note-this is bunk with particular attention to Timothy McVeigh, a Caucasian American Christian militia member and Terry Nichols, Caucasian American Christian militia member who detonated a massive bomb at the Murrah Federal Building, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, which killed 168 people. Both were anti-government extremists.)

1. I am appalled shocked and disgusted by the senseless attack upon Rep. Gabby Giffords and nineteen others on January 8, 2001 resulting in six deaths. The uncivil level of discourse emanating primarily from republicans, conservatives, neo-conservatives and their counterpart talking heads the past few years has caused great concern. Few are taking responsibility for the violent vitriolic utterances with the primary defense being the individual, not the hostile environment caused this sad episode. This writer is of the opinion those who stirred the pot created fear and paranoia thus manufacturing an explosive national milieu. When the conservative movement's True Believers are fed a steady diet of extraordinary warnings intended to induce a paranoiac, panicked fear -- They're Destroying America! They Want to End Your Liberty! Health Care Reform is the End of America! and simultaneously a steady diatribe of suggestions the solution is simply to do away with them. They are, indeed, responsible for their words and violent acts are unfortunately validated by individuals through careless vitriolic utterances from unprofessional politicians and talking heads. Those in charge needed to have toned down the volatile rhetoric before inevitable consequences occurred. This is not meant to imply a direct link to the shooter, but means emphatically conservatives, talking heads and others created the explosive environment violence thrives upon.

The following has been paraphrased from an web article written by Brent Budowsky, in article entitled: Right-wing death threats rise: Republicans should condemn Rush Limbaugh. Just in the past two and a half years, here's the record of "isolated incidents" amassed so far (information has been added onto):

--July 2008: A gunman named Jim David Adkisson, agitated at how "liberals" are "destroying America," walks into a Unitarian Church and opens fire, killing two churchgoers and wounding four others. (My note-Adkisson's statement: "This was a symbolic killing. Who I wanted to kill was every Democrat in the Senate & House, the 100 people in Bernard Goldberg's book. I'd like to kill everyone in the mainstream media. But I know those people were inaccessible to me. I couldn't get to the generals & high ranking officers of the Marxist movement so I went after the foot soldiers, the chickenshit liberals that vote in these traitorous people. Someone had to get the ball rolling. I volunteered. I hope others do the same. It's the only way we can rid America of this cancerous pestilence." (Note..Bernard Goldberg is a regular on Fox News Bill O'Reilly's Factor program).

--October 2008: Two neo-Nazis are arrested in Tennessee in a plot to murder dozens of African-Americans, culminating in the assassination of President Obama.

--December 2008: A pair of "Patriot" movement radicals -the father-son team of Bruce and Joshua Turnidge, who wanted "to attack the political infrastructure" -- threaten a bank in Woodburn, Oregon, with a bomb in the hopes of extorting money that would end their financial difficulties, for which they blamed the government. Instead, the bomb goes off and kills two police officers. The men eventually are convicted and sentenced to death for the crime.

--December 2008: In Belfast, Maine, police discover the makings of a nuclear "dirty bomb" in the basement of a white supremacist shot dead by his wife. The man, who was independently wealthy, reportedly was agitated about the election of President Obama and was crafting a plan to set off the bomb.

--January 2009: A white supremacist named Keith Luke embarks on a killing rampage in Brockton, Mass., raping and wounding a black woman, killing her sister, then murdering a homeless man before being captured by police as he is enroute to a Jewish community center.

--February 2009: A Marine named Kody Brittingham is arrested and charged with plotting to assassinate President Obama. Brittingham also collected white-supremacist material.

--April 2009: A white supremacist named Richard Poplawski opens fire on three Pittsburgh police officers who come to his house on a domestic-violence call and kills all three, because he believed President Obama intended to take away the guns of white citizens like himself.Poplawski is currently awaiting trial.

--April 2009: Another gunman in Okaloosa County, Florida, similarly fearful of Obama's purported gun-grabbing plans, kills two deputies when they come to arrest him in a domestic-violence matter, then is killed himself in a shootout with police.

--May 2009: A "sovereign citizen" named Scott Roederwalks into a church in Wichita, Kansas, and assassinates abortion provider Dr. George Tiller. Bill O'Reilly, Fox News The Factor had repeatedly labeled Dr. Tiller, "Tiller The Killer," but quickly absolved himself of any responsibility after the doctor was murdered.

--June 2009: A Holocaust denier and right-wing tax protester named James Von Brunn opens fire at the Holocaust Museum, killing a security guard.
--February 2010: An angry tax protester named Joseph Ray Stack flies an airplane into the building housing IRS offices in Austin, Texas. (Media are reluctant to label this one "domestic terrorism" too, but at least one Congressman labeled Stack as a "hero")
--March 2010: Seven militiamen from the Hutaree Militia in Michigan and Ohio are arrested and charged with plotting to assassinate local police officers with the intent of sparking a new civil war.

--March 2010: An anti-government extremist named John Patrick Bedell walks into the Pentagon and opens fire, wounding two officers before he is himself shot dead.

--May 2010: A "sovereign citizen" from Georgia is arrested in Tennessee and charged with plotting the violent takeover of a local county courthouse.

--May 2010: A still-unidentified white man walks into a Jacksonville, Fla., mosque and sets it afire, simultaneously setting off a pipe bomb.

--May 2010: Two "sovereign citizens" named Jerry and Joe Kane gun down two police officers who pull them over for a traffic violation, and then wound two more officers in a shootout in which both of them are eventually killed.

--July 2010: An agitated right-winger and convict named Byron Williams loads up on weapons and drives to the Bay Area intent on attacking the offices of the Tides Foundation and the ACLU, but is intercepted by state patrolmen and engages them in a shootout and armed standoff in which two officers and Williams are wounded. Williams claims he had been watching Fox News for awhile and was grateful Glenn Beck had told him the truth.

--September 2010: A Concord, N.C., man is arrested and charged with plotting to blow up a North Carolina abortion clinic. The man, 26-year--old Justin Carl Moose, referred to himself as the "Christian counterpart to Osama bin Laden” in a taped undercover meeting with a federal informant.

--January 2011: A 22-year-old gunman named Jared Lee Loughner with a long grudge against Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and a paranoid hatred of the government walks into a public Giffords event and shoots her in the head, then keeps firing, killing six people and wounding 14 more. Gifford miraculously survives.

--January 2011: A backpack bomb with the potential of killing or injuring dozens of people is found along the route of a Martin Luther King Day “unity march” in downtown Spokane.

--"My tears are flowing and I am stunned and angered that Gabby Giffords was savagely gunned down while performing her congressional duties." So said Minnesota Republican Representative Michele Bachmann in response to to the January 8 mass killing in Tucson. But less than a year ago, Bachmann called for resistance to cap and trade legislation, "I want people in Minnesota armed and dangerous on this issue," adding, "Thomas Jefferson told us, having a revolution every now and then is a good thing."

--Rep. Tom Perriello's (D-VA) brother's address was erroneously posted online by a Tea Party blogger who invited activists to descend on the house. A gas line outside the brother's house was cut.

--Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI) was the target of threatening faxes and phone calls, including death threats.

--A brick was thrown through the window of the Democratic Party office in Rochester, New York.

--Rep. Anthony Weiner's office in Kew Gardens, New York, had to be evacuated after suspicious white powder was found in an envelope mailed to the office.

--A thrown brick smashed a window at Rep. Louise Slaughter's district office in Niagara Falls, New York.

--Slaughter also received a message claiming that "snipers were being deployed to kill those members who voted yes for health care," according to Politico.

--The FBI arrested a California man for making threatening phone calls to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

--A tossed brick demolished a window at the Sedgwick County Democratic Party headquarters in Wichita, Kansas.

-A devoted Glenn Beck fan left a serious of death threats (Kill the fucking Senator!) on the voice mail at the office of Sen. Patty Murray.

2. Today, January 12, 2011, marked the President of the United States coming to Tucson. Mr. Obama visited recuperating victims at University Medical Center and then delivered a moving speech during a memorial service at McHale Center. Meanwhile, Sarah Palin posted an eight minute video on Facebook again portraying herself as a "victim.". Ms. Palin has been particularly volatile with hate filled messages since 2008. She portrayed herself as a victim of blood libel thus infuriating both Christians and Jews alike by using the phrase. Blood libel is a disparaging term used for centuries to identify a myth where Jews allegedly killed Christian children for their blood. Palin displayed her typical vindictive paranoia instead of respect for the dead being eulogized in a memorial attended by the President and other dignitaries, reflecting upon a national tragedy and consideration for the massive outpouring of support for victims and decedents alike. She is only thinking of herself while Gabby Giffords is fighting for life. Subsequently, Palin's basic values and hence, credibility must be questioned in length. Past problems within her family include a daughter, Willow, breaking and entering homes to party with other teenagers (note-Palin interceded resulting in only the boys being indicted; the girls walked away scot free!); homophobic slurs on Facebook uttered by both Willow and Bristol with only Bristol apologizing; Track, the eldest son, being arrested by police for vandalizing a school bus's brakes prompting him to enlist in the Army to avoid trial; and of course, Bristol having a child out of wedlock. Children are reflective of their parents and in this case, the sight is not very positive. Best for Sarah to be seen and not heard unless there is a desire for more light shined upon skeletons in her closet. Unfortunately, she must be regarded as an angry insecure person who lashes out at the slightest hint of criticism, whether true or not; greed indicated by leaving the governorship for more dollars; and a constant obsession to be in the public light regardless.

3. Anyone who adheres to the Republican Party should reconsider in light of GOP actually instituting death panels. The 9/11 responders were held in limbo by Republican Senators who bickered over the Responders Bill. Many of these brave souls are suffering from various diseases emanating from that day in September. Some are destitute from medical bills while others are counting the days until the Grim Reaper appears. Meanwhile, Republican Senators are turning their backs on them, i.e. particularly John McCain who is finally showing his true selfish colors. It is simply disgusting that Republicans are willing to play obstructionist games while brave souls are suffering unto death. The bill finally passed after $3 billion was cut by the GOP (Grand Obstructionist Party).

4. Another Republican death panel is active in Arizona where Guv Jan Brewer cut funds for AHCCCS, the AZ version of Medicaid. Guv zeroed in on transplants and other major surgeries describing them as "Cadillacs." Thus once again, good people are facing the specter of death simply due to an inability to obtain bone marrow replacement, heart transplants, etc.; a total cost of $5 million to provide. "Deer In The Headlights" feels these are unnecessary and is willing to let Arizonans die for the belief (three so far). It is utterly cruel, but Brewer has little compassion except for her misguided ideology. She hasn't made any cuts in the guv's office and could sell one of her two aircraft to cover the $5 million.

3. The Arizona Nationalist Socialist Party (Nazi) is patrolling the border to enhance security and show their colors. Undoubtedly, this made Sheriff Jimmy Arpaio happy since he enjoys having his picture taken with the group. Another public servant, AZ Senator Russell Pearce, enjoyed hobnobbing with the Nazis until it became a public relations risk, but this didn't stop him from soliciting far right input in the writing of SB 1070, the controversial immigration bill. Obviously, politics is more important than the millions who died in WWII fighting Hitler's adherents. My take....its shameful and shows a disrespect toward those Americans who paid the ultimate price during that conflict. Oh, J.T. Ready, the Arizona National Socialist leader, was court-martialed twice by the Marines while serving and then escorted quietly out their door with a bad conduct discharge. Somebody needs to box their ears and also, clue "Deer In The Headlights" Brewer about reality.  Arizona now has 16 hate groups with Tucson gaining a white nationalist group according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. Certainly not a notable achievement.  It's not a good year for those dedicated to true Republican principles and conservatism. Barry Goldwater would roll over in his grave.



Pearce is shown with J,T. Ready at a National Socialist rally in Phoenix.  Also present was Sheriff Joe Arpaio in support of Ready.  J.T. Ready was allegedly implicated in the murder of Mexican border crossers and later committed suicide after killing his girl friend, her daughter, daughter's boyfriend and their baby.  This is Arizona politics and the acceptance of an ideology so many Americans and Allies died fighting during World War II.






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No Reality For Stars and Near-Stars

       America, listen to this fact:  Joe and Teresa Giudice are convicted felons! True, since both were convicted in federal court after admitting they bilked $5 million by submitting phony documents to obtain construction and bank loans; concealed assets, lied to bankruptcy officials and failed to file a 2004 tax return. Both were ordered to pay restitution: Joe, $414,000 and Teresa,  $200,000.  She is currently serving a 15 month sentence and Joe will report for a 41 month term in federal prison when she is released on parole.  Exact charges for both were bankruptcy and mail frauds; and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.  This crime doesn't make sense since Teresa had a net worth of $11 million, but it doesn't end there!

     Joe recently appeared in Passaic County Court for driver license fraud. Apparently, he borrowed his brother's identification papers and sought a new one to replaced his suspended one for driving while intoxicated. The judge described Giudice's driving record as "mind boggling" since it contained thirty-nine (39) suspensions!  

       Giudice had accepted a plea agreement, but attempted several ploys to even downsize that.  He was hesitant to accept the deal, convinced of his innocence, but relented after a hurried conference with his attorney. Giudice was sentenced to license revocation of two years and a $10,000 fine.  His attorney attempted to argue Joe was destitute, but the judge reminded them Joe had recently been paid $75,000 for a tabloid interview.  Giudice was also sentenced to 18 months in jail, but this will run concurrently with federal incarceration. Both never seem to accept reality nor the harm their children are experiencing.  Joe was heard bragging about a return to Real Housewives of New Jersey for a "lot of money."  Yup, he has learned his lesson.

       I recently cancelled a subscription to a tabloid magazine for several reasons, but the most prominent was the Guidice Family brandished prominently in several issues in an apparent attempt to evoke sympathy. Yet, Mr. and Mrs. Guidice created their own angst through acts resulting in prison and great sadness for their children.  These kids deserve some publicity to illustrate harm done by their parents' greed, avarice and self-sanctification.  Joe and Teresa deserve no positive publicity since he will probably be deported to Italy after prison release.  Their actions will undoubtedly result in a family breakup with Joe's forced Italy return courtesy of fraud and lying. Teresa is claiming she is so innocent and it was all Joe's fault; disregard her lying to bankruptcy officials; those pesky Teresa Guidice signatures on the bilking documents; and, oh, concealed assets.  

      This particular magazine and others post continuous articles which tend to influence others it's all right to commit felonies-just look at all the money the Guidices are going to make afterwards. No felony stigma for Teresa since Bravo Network, allegedly, wants Teresa back for season 7 of RHONJ. Don't get me wrong; I believe everyone deserves a second chance for redemption and regain societal position.  Yet some magazines, net sites and possibly Bravo Network seem to think redemption isn't necessary nor paying for crimes against society. Both need to experience humility, pay their restitution, endure prison and chastise themselves for the impact upon their children; and the institutions bilked-not to receive positive publicity treating them as innocents. 

     Change focus to the Kardashians whose claim to fame emanated from Kim's sex tape.  Never mind many celebrities who spend years of blood, sweat and tears to gain the public eye; just put forth a sex tape and take it for all its worth! The only one who has earned legitimate adulation is Bruce Jenner for his Olympic feats.  Other family members have used a scripted reality show, sex, failed marriages, good spin and of course, MONEY to gain entry into the wide, wide world of celebrities.  Spin, public relations, drama; all combine to bring them into your home while the resulting influence is for little people to emulate their actions: and voila, SUCCESS-NOT.  Its all make believe for a gullible public.

       A side note-Martha Stewart was also convicted of a felony and served time in prison.  She is almost regarded as never being there; it just didn't happen since Stewart possessed MONEY and hired good PR people.


All this is sad, but true, but the new moniker is :
Felonies go away if you have the MONEY!: AT LEAST IN THE PUBLIC EYE!! (But they remain in NCIS!)





and

Introducing Monster’s Award Winners: SEOPress, WP Weekly, and WP Academy

In the vast realm of digital innovation, where every click and keystroke shapes the landscape, three remarkable individuals stand as beacons of excellence, each wielding their expertise to redefine the boundaries of possibility. We are honored to be able to sit down with the visionaries behind SEOPress, WP Weekly, and WP Academy, Monster's Award Winners, […]

The post Introducing Monster’s Award Winners: SEOPress, WP Weekly, and WP Academy appeared first on MonstersPost.




and

A Conversation with Mirza Hassan, Creator of Tourfic and Ultimate Addons for CF7

Mirza Hassan began as a freelancer, where his passion for WordPress and Shopify ignited his creativity. His dedication and expertise led him to Themefic, a platform for WordPress themes, and PSDtoWPService.com, a service that turns Photoshop designs into WordPress sites. Besides his technical prowess, Mirza has a unique perspective and dedication to his craft. As […]

The post A Conversation with Mirza Hassan, Creator of Tourfic and Ultimate Addons for CF7 appeared first on MonstersPost.




and

Crafting a User-Friendly Shopify Store for Elderly and Users with Disabilities

In the bustling world of e-commerce, inclusivity is not just a trend but a necessity. As the digital landscape evolves, it's imperative to ensure that online stores are accessible to all users, including the elderly and those requiring disability aids. Let’s we'll delve into actionable tips to make your Shopify e-commerce store user-friendly for these […]

The post Crafting a User-Friendly Shopify Store for Elderly and Users with Disabilities appeared first on MonstersPost.



  • Create a website
  • Shopify Knowledge Base

and

Missing: one husband

Has anyone seen my hubby? He should be somewhere in the vicinity of DC. If you see him, tell him to get back home so he can start writing again!

Meanwhile….

I am soooo glad summer has finally drawn to a close. It has been one we will not soon forget.

So, since Craig has been a bit busy, I decided to put my thought down on a subject that was brought to my attention a while back. I shall call it “Things That Annoy Instructors”.

#1. Coming in late to class and missing the very important warm up – and setting up weights can be a bit distracting. I must say though that it doesn’t always bother me. I just usually say hello to the person and move on!

#2. Leaving before the very important cool down. I know that some people have to leave because of jobs, etc., but the cool down is extremely important. Also distracting can be when weights are being put away as we instructing. However, on Fridays, there is a class right after ours so I will sometimes start putting our weights away while Craig teaches so we are not late getting out.

#3. This is what annoys me the most. When a new person comes to class and we try to go over proper form, and they are not paying the least bit of attention. Usually they are chatting with a friend or adjusting the weights on their bar instead of listening. Personally, I find this to be pretty rude. It makes me feel like I’m wasting my time, yet it is for their own benefit that we do this!

#4. When only 2 people show up to class!


Well – I think that is it. But in all fairness, I will try to put down what I think is annoying to participants.

#1. When the instructor is late.

#2. When the instructor is too ‘chatty’.

#3. When they have a sub.

#4. When we foul up the choreography.

#5. When I keep talking about my shoe fetish.

#6. When Craig and I act like Lucy and Ricky.


Did I miss anything? Hope not!

BTW – Craig will get the 63 review out soon.




and

The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

The Good: We never went anywhere. Yep, we're still teaching week in and week out.
The Bad: We haven't posted in a long, long while. Mostly because Craig's been working out of town every week and Tami doesn't like to write posts by herself.
The Ugly: Craig's back at home again, and we've got a mile-long list of topics to write about. Starting with the Body Pump 64 review, coming right up...




and

and I will walk 500 mile....

Does anybody remember that song – I believe it was called “I’m Gonna Be 500 Miles” by the Proclaimers? It was a catchy little tune.

Well, with that in mind, as we were driving back home from Atlanta on New Years Day I was trying to come up with a New Years resolution. I did not want the usual ones, like “I will lose weight”, or I will be a better wife”. I wanted something unique – something that would really be a goal that I could actually stick with. One that would be challenging and keep me motivated so that 2 months later I would not be wondering what my resolution was. And then it hit me! My cardio workouts have been slacking and I needed a jumpstart to get me going. So, I made it my goal to walk 500 miles by December 31, 2008! Of course, like any good goal, there must be parameters. Here are mine: I need to average 1.4 miles per day on the treadmill. If I do cycling, step, or any other cardio, I will count 1 mile for every 20 minutes of aerobic activity. And then what makes you even more motivated to attain a goal? Competition! I mentioned this in Pump the other day and one of our most dedicated exercisers wants to do it with me – especially when she found out what the reward is for reaching the goal – a trip to the Day Spa! You know, facial, massage, manicure, pedicure…the works! Of course I had to promise Craig that I would save my money to pay for my spa which means I will have to cut back on my shoe purchases.

All in all, walking is great exercise – we should all to more walking. I have been wearing a pedometer since 1/2/08 and another goal is getting at least 10,000 steps per day – so far I have only fallen behind once, and that was when I was not feeling well.

Oh yeah – how am I doing on my walking endeavor? I’m ahead of schedule. According to my walking chart that Craig so wonderfully put together for me, I should have 19.60 miles in – but I have 27.17!

Has anyone else set some goals? I’d love to hear from you!

Tami




and

Random class pics

Well a couple weeks ago we finally got around to launching release #68. Ours is the Wednesday 4:10pm class, an awesome timeslot for everyone who just wants to knock off work a bit early and take a midweek break for an hour. It's our favorite class to teach.
I'm a full-time software developer who's always running five minutes late, so finding the time to pick up choreography can be a challenge sometimes. It's definitely not unusual for me to resort to "cramming" just before class - Tami, on the other hand, is never late and learns her music days ahead of time. Good thing for me that opposites attract!
Our class tells us they enjoy the banter that goes on between Tami and I during the workout. Well there's nothing scripted or made up for that - it's just a continuation of what goes on between us pretty much most of the time. It just so happens for an hour that day everyone gets to overhear it. I'm behaving badly in this pic to the right, with Tami on the verge of thumping my head lest I forget who really wears the pants in our family.
Somehow, in spite of ourselves, we usually manage to run a pretty tight class. Form - not weight - is our hot topic, and we've found that most everybody really wants to execute the routines properly. Last week we ran another of our Form Friday classes - the cool thing this last time around was that we were mostly helping people make "fine tuning" adjustments (all the typical "big stuff" seemed to be in pretty good shape!) Which brings me to the closing thought for this post - maybe it's time to resurrect our Wicked Wednesday mix for this afternoon's class...




and

"Guru" in the Singular and Clarity about "Fall Down"

Editorial on ISKCON's guru tattva.




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Scientific Evidence and Intelligent Design

Media coverage of Intelligent Design debate and accepting 'authority as absolute'.




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Politically Correct Handbaskets

.Understanding spiritual truth that sometimes appears contradictory from a material viewpoint.




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Freedom of Religion and Public Education

.An in-depth study of legal issues related to religion in public schools.




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Srila Prabhupada and the Aquarian Gospel

Srila Prabhupada's comments on the Aquarian Gospel.




and

May 13 2009 Radio Station History - Solomon Islands - Part 1 AFRS Guadalcanal

The Mosquito Network - American Military Radio in the Solomon Islands During WWII by Martin Hadlow. "The American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) provides Stateside radio and television programming, 'a touch of home,' to U.S. service men and women, DoD civilians, and their families serving outside the continental United States."




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May 13 2009 Radio Station History - Solomon Islands - Part 2 AFRS Radio City

The Mosquito Network - American Military Radio in the Solomon Islands During WWII by Martin Hadlow. "Once ashore, Captain Spencer Allen was relieved to find that Army engineers and Signal Corpsmen had constructed a studio building for the radio station, 'the first made of clapboard in the camp,' he recalls, and a smaller transmitter shack about 200 yards away."




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May 13 2009 Radio Station History - Solomon Islands - Part 3 AFRS Mosquito Bites

The Mosquito Network - American Military Radio in the Solomon Islands During WWII by Martin Hadlow. "As AES-Guadalcanal continued to develop, it was joined by other new stations in The Mosquito Network. On April 3, 1944, AES-Munda (New Georgia), opened transmissions..."




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May 19 2009 Radio Station History Australia - 2MG Mudgee - "The Voice of the Tablelands"

Station 2MG, Mudgee, "The Voice of the Tablelands," owned and operated by the Mudgee Broadcasting Company Pty. Limited, is situated a mile from the chief commercial town of a very rich inner-western district of New South Wales...




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July 11 Apna 990AM Auckland - Four Years on the Airwaves

Morning radio jockey Shaiyaz Mohammed doesn't mind getting up at 4.30am to do the job he loves...




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July 16 2009 New Heritage Friends WVUV-FM and KKHJ-FM

Welcome to South Seas Broadcasting, Inc stations V103 and 93KHJ in American Samoa, latest Heritage Friends of the Radio Heritage Foundation.




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August 11 2009 Radio Station History Australia: The Queensland Network

Five Great Voices in One - 4BC Brisbane 4SB Kingaroy 4GR Toowoomba 4RO Rockhampton 4MB...




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August 24 2009 Radio Station History Australia: 4MK Mackay, Queensland 'We Strive to Excel'

Mackay Broadcasting Service Pty. Ltd., is a 100 per cent. Mackay organisation established firmly in a very prosperous district...




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September 19 2009 Radio Station History Australia: 2AD Armidale - The Voice of New England

A decade has passed since Station 2AD took the air to serve the New England Tableland...




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October 17 2009 World Radio TV Handbook 2010: The Directory of Global Broadcasting

Support the Radio Heritage Foundation by purchasing your new copy of the WRTV Handbook 2010 via Amazon through us....




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January 12 2010 Radio Heritage Foundation - Annual and Lifetime Supporter Packages

Welcome! It's thanks to people like you that we're able to save our radio heritage and make it freely available through this website....




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March 1 2011 Radio Heritage Foundation - Christchurch Earthquake - Updated: AM and FM Stations in Christchurch

Updated: Here is a complete list of current AM and FM radio services in Christchurch...




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April 14th 2011 Radio Heritage Foundation - Christchurch [New Zealand] Radio Services List Updated

Our list of Christchurch Radio Services has been updated.




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July 11th 2013 Radio Heritage Foundation - New Feature: AES 1 Zee M Auckland

Mosquito Network AES 1ZM Auckland...




and

Trent Alexander-Arnold Girlfriend

Trent Alexander-Arnold is currently dating Hannah Atkins. The two were first spotted together in June 2021and have been photographed together since then. Neither has confirmed or denied the relationship. Hannah Atkins Bio Since the relationship is fairly new not much is known about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s girlfriend but appears to be in her early 20s. Hannah… Continue reading Trent Alexander-Arnold Girlfriend

The post Trent Alexander-Arnold Girlfriend appeared first on FootyBlog.net.




and

Bruno Fernandes Wife 2021

Bruno Fernandes is married to the lovely Ana Pinho. Bruno and Ana have known each other since they were high school teenagers and tied the knot in 2015. They have two children, Matilde Fernandes, born in 2017and a son, Goncalo Fernandes, born in 2020. Ana Pinho Bio Ana Pinho was born April 18, 1994 in… Continue reading Bruno Fernandes Wife 2021

The post Bruno Fernandes Wife 2021 appeared first on FootyBlog.net.




and

Paddle steamer Delta King in Sacramento and San Francisco

The Delta King is moored in Sacramento used as a hotel.
In San Francisco it's at the pier in 1938. Click thumbnail to see it.

Delta King is a 285-foot-long paddlewheel steamboat (87 m). Delta King is the sister ship to Delta Queen, both christened 20 May 1927, traveling between Sacramento, California and San Francisco, California on 10-hour trips.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delta_King





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19 kids and counting - Duggars

Popular TV show - well known nationally.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/19_Kids_and_Counting





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Houses of Grand designs Australia

Grand Designs Australia is an Australian spin-off of British TV series, Grand Designs. The show documents people who attempt to build a custom-designed house and the challenges they face. It is aired on the The LifeStyle Channel and is hosted by architect, Peter Maddison.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Designs_Australia

In this file you can see where 45 of the 46 houses are built in the show. Many of them are hidden in history so you have to click on the thumpnail to see them.
Many of them are also shown in Street View and Bing Maps with a link in the thumpnail.