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Only laws and regulations will keep Facebook in line [Opinion]
Facebook is the most pervasive social media platform used today, reporting 2.2 billion monthly active users as of the fourth quarter of 2017. This is more than any other social media platform. More of us need to consider what this means and the risks that are involved when a company has data associated with 2.2 billion people.
As users, we gave consent for Facebook to share our information — but what about giving consent on behalf of others? Cambridge Analytica, a data analysis company, worked with Facebook to collect consumer information on users' media habits, online behaviors, demographics and psychographics. In social media, this gray area is termed "second order consent." In Facebook's Data Policy terms, Facebook is clear to articulate the "different kinds of information" the company collects and how they use it, but most people haven't fully read these or did not understand them.
That's why we need more vigilance, more regulation and more laws to protect us.
OPINION: Is it time to regulate social media?
The recent news of Cambridge Analytica's use of data was not about a data leak. Facebook, by design, is a profitable business model based on data, and as Facebook users, we have given consent. As consumers and/or business owners who use Facebook, we are "the product" being sold. Consider what marketing and targeted advertising is. At the heart are terms of exchange, relationship and value. Over time, when trust is earned, a series of exchanges may become a mutually beneficial relationship.
Alternatively, when trust is broken — as was the case with Cambridge Analytica's use of Facebook data to serve its political agenda — people begin to question the true motives of marketers and those companies using the consumer data. Reality has set in for many of the 2.2 billion users who have probably never read Facebook's terms, nor have they consciously considered the power of their information.
There is also a societal cost with social media, and scholars recently provided data-backed research about it. From a consumer psychology lens, there are macro effects of social media including digital drama, overconsumption of the news, spreading fake news, inauthenticity of our digital self, cyberbullying, revenge pornography, social media addiction, fake accounts, trolls, and even deaths seen on Facebook live. The Internet Trap suggests that there are hidden costs of social media; there is too little privacy, too many comparisons, too much customization, too much information and too many temptations with social media today.
EDITORIAL: Let's regulate Facebook
Change is in order. Ultimately, this responsibility lies with lawmakers, businesses and consumers. The current state of the industry walks a fine line of ethical business practice. All businesses, especially Facebook, Google and Amazon, should take ownership in this issue of privacy by providing more simplified information and discontinuing the enablement of consumer data sharing as it is currently done.
What can we do? For starters, it's our duty as consumers to understand the information that these companies collect, be knowledgeable of the terms, and consciously decide how and when we want to use their services. This requires people not only to read, but also to slow down and avoid the temptation to click through a third-party login through Facebook or Google.
Beyond changing online behavior, consumers can submit complaints to the Federal Communications Commission, the federal agency responsible for implementing and enforcing America's communications laws and regulations.
Businesses can also make changes with their media mix allocations. Some businesses such as Tesla, Pep Boys and Sonos have quit their brand Facebook pages or suspended ads on Facebook. Some businesses are upset about the newer "pay to play" aspect of social media and impending rising costs of social media-based advertising. There needs to be meaningful industry self-regulation, but we may be at the point where that is unrealistic or not enough to warrant meaningful change. We have reached a point where we need more laws regulating social media that protect consumers and not just the pocketbooks of the social media giants.
Close Scheinbaum is an associate professor in the Stan Richards School of Advertising and Public Relations at The University of Texas at Austin. She is the author of "Advertising & Integrated Brand Promotion" and editor of "The Dark Side of Social Media: A Consumer Psychology Perspective." Sussman is an adjunct professor in the Stan Richards School of Advertising and Public Relations at The University of Texas at Austin and CEO and founder of Social Distillery, a social media agency.


text: Ayyyeeee.... What's up fans, music lovers, aspiring artists and pretty much anyone in need of some good music and superb vibrations!! You don't want to miss this event!! Presented by Phillips Music Group, this topnotch live music showcase will have select A&R representation in the house, a live band, musical artist from around the globe, DJ So Cal, Boogie B as the Host and so much more... food, vendors, ect.. ect.. also a Special Performance by Cnoteshce and so many more amazing new artist of today!! That's right Fri, Sept 28th, 8:30PM to 11:00PM PDT. at The Art Share L.A. Los Angeles, CA 90013. Get Your Tickets Now!! Here!!

subset: commoncrawl


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Company Details
Henan Yunyu Mechanical Equipment Co., Ltd.
Pneumatic Ball Valve is light and compact, can be made into a large diameter, reliable sealing, simple structure, easy maintenance, sealing surface and spherical surface often closed, not easily eroded by media, and widely used in various industries.
Pneumatic ball valves are ball valves with pneumatic actuators. Pneumatic actuators perform relatively quickly, with the fastest switching speed of 0.05 seconds/time, so they are often called pneumatic quick-cut ball valves. Pneumatic ball valves are usually equipped with various accessories, such as solenoid valves, gas supply processing triplets, limit switches, positioners, control boxes, etc., to achieve local control and remote centralized control, in the control room can control the valve switch , do not need to go to the scene or bring manual control at high altitude and danger, to a large extent, saving manpower resources and time and safety. Pneumatic Ball Valve specific categories are: Stainless Steel Pneumatic Ball Valve, plastic pneumatic ball valve, sanitary pneumatic ball valve, carbon steel pneumatic ball valve, two-way pneumatic ball valve, three-way pneumatic ball valve, four-way pneumatic ball valve.


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DETROIT — On a day when most people's caloric intake explodes, the Detroit Lions offense finally exploded.
Matthew Stafford found Calvin Johnson in the end zone twice and the Detroit Lions scored a 24 points in the first half en route to a 34-17 win over the Chicago Bears. The 34 points are the most the Lions have scored in a single game since scoring 35 in a Week 1 win over the New York Giants. The 24 points in the first half are the most the Lions have scored in a half this season.
Matthew Stafford completed 34 of 45 passes for 390 yards and a quarterback rating of 116.0. He was 22 of 26 in the first half for 275 yards and the two touchdown passes to Johnson. The 275 yards were the second-most Stafford has thrown in an opening half in his career.
Johnson had nine catches in the first half for 109 yards and the two scores. He eclipsed the 10,000 career receiving yards in the first half, becoming the fastest player in NFL History to do so (115 games). Megatron finished with 11 catches for 146 yards.
Joique Bell scored two one-yard rushing touchdowns and Matt Prater kicked two field goals (46, 40) to complete the Lions scoring on the day. Bell finished the day with 91 rushing yards on 23 carries.
With the win, the Lions improve to 8-4 on the season and 3-0 against NFC North opponents. The Bears fall to 5-7.
Detroit is 5-1 at Ford Field this season and host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Dec. 7) and the Minnesota Vikings (Dec. 14) over the next two weeks.


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So, how I learned the art of drawing. I've always loved looking at art drawings and paintings. The ability to put on canvas or paper what you are feeling through lines and circles is really cool. I used to draw for fun as a kid as I think most people did. When I got older I just stopped. I think it was because of the frustration of not being able to put onto paper what was in my mind. Learning is fun.
Going through the basement, I found some old drawing pencils and drawing paper. I drew a shark that was on one of my kid's t-shirt and it didn't suck too bad… lol. So I drew other items around the house, a pocket knife, my feet, my hands, coffee cups, etc, I did this for a few months, I really got into it and spent hours drawing.
And that is what really piqued my interest back into drawing even more. I saw people drawing in real-time and it was awesome! I copied their techniques and found that they worked. Twitch is also how I found out about inking, which I really enjoyed looking at how the lines were thin, thick, and tapered.
Sidenote (here are my #inktober drawings for this year)
A lot of people on Twitch were talking about an art challenge called Inktober, and it intrigued me further. I did a ton of research on Google and YouTube about it and decided that I too would challenge myself to draw every day in ink. It was pure fun.
I found myself wanting to draw more and more every day and I did. I consumed YouTube "how to draw" channels daily. I even paid for some training online using Udemy and SkillShare. On Christmas, I received an Ipad Pro 12.9 and found the software program called Procreate. OMG, I love digital drawing, especially cartoons. It's probably my favorite thing to spend time on now.
I'm still drawing daily, and I have picked up watercolor painting as well as acrylic painting. I think I want to learn more about how to draw portraits though, both in pencil and painting mediums. That's the plan. Listening to music helps too.
How I learned the art of drawing… self-taught, self-learned…lol. I didn't go to college or any traditional art school. Though, I might someday…
I don't know. Does anyone know if it's worth it?
Comment below!
Leave a Reply


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The conference provided me a unique opportunity to present my research to a general audience with diverse expertise. This is invaluable for my job market preparation.
Over the course of two days, I was acquainted with exciting doctoral research from a diverse set of universities. Organisation was superb! A great stimulating experience.


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Lavrov's alarm
The era of the historical dominance of the West, which lasted for hundreds of years ends, said foreign Minister of Russia Sergey Lavrov, speaking at the forum "Territory of meanings on the Klyazma".
According to the Minister of foreign Affairs of Russia, now appear "new centers in the Asia-Pacific region".
The foreign Minister noticed with worry, that the west is trying "to preserve the dominance artificially through sanctions and even military means". Trough this means western countries make threat to pease and security worldwide and make the world closer to chaos and disaster.


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We know you've tried other gyms, workout programs, and the like in your lifetime. You're hesitant - and concerned - that this might just be another start and stop affair, and you're unsure about committing to yet another fitness program only to waste hundreds of dollars—again.
At the same time, the stress of wanting more for yourself coupled with a lack of certainty about what to actually do to get there is also costing you a great deal. We get it - because we've been there too - and that's why we start you with a FREE WEEK to experience the Stoked Athletics difference.
Click here to claim your FREE WEEK!
Our individualized approach to training has worked for hundreds of people over the years, and it can work for you. How can you be sure? Join us for a FREE WEEK and experience the Stoked Athletics difference for yourself!


text: I am a Professor and the Australian Government's Women in STEM Ambassador. Author of 'When Galaxies Collide' (Melbourne University Publishing) and presenter on ABC Television's Stargazing Live. My research interests include the origin and evolution of cosmic magnetism, supernova remnants, the interstellar medium, massive star formation, galaxy mergers and astrophysical masers. I am the former Project Scientist for CSIRO's Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP), and for the Square Kilometre Array.


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Where We've Been
Established in 2009, Talent Spot is a professional HR solutions provider founded in China. Through the headquarter in Shanghai, Talent Spot has over 500 full-time employees with 8 branch offices in Asia Pacific Region includes Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, Japan, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.
With the growth of our business coming from the increasing demand of our clients' HR services, we have operations in more than 10 branch offices across China, including Shanghai, Beijing, Suzhou, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Nanchang, Tianjin, Shenyang and Xi'An. In 2015, our annual revenue reached more than RMB 800 million and we have more than 300 employees across China.
Our branch offices provide HR solutions such as temporary/permanent staffing, executive search, RPO, on-site managed recruitment, payroll services, business process outsourcing, company registration and legal consulting to multinational companies across China as well as Asia Pacific.


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Swingers and Jealousy
My love is temporarily half way around the world for business. We were able to meet half way a few months ago. We've always been swingers together. We never had the honeymoon before stepping out, so our play rules apart are difficult. I had not played since he has left over 1 year ago, but we knew it would be a long haul ahead of us and he set me free to play. Of course I could have returned to my swinger ways without his permission, but I cannot cheat. Before I found swinging, ever man cheated on me but I never did. I still don't.
I was still hesitant to put up a profile as a single female. I finally did and also touched base with a few old swingers friends I trusted. No couple or man really interested me. I'm sure I was avoiding playing, but decided on trying out a swingers house-party. I had not been to one in over 1.5 years. I checked in with my love and he was pleased I was going with friends.
I was excited about the swingers party, but nervous. In the months leading up to his departure, we had played little with others. We wanted as much time with each other as we could. Being swingers was on the bottom of our list.
Swingers have a saying. "Move at the slowest paced partner." We both thought things would be fine and felt it was a good experiment to see how we could play apart halfway around the world from each other.
It did not go as well as we had hoped. He had nothing to do but be alone and worry if I was OK? What was I DOING and to whom? It just was too hard for him. My love is a kind and giving man and even sought out playmates for me while we were together, but this was too much to handle.
He was hard on himself. He was a swinger and in the past had not behaved either, but also never cheated. We discovered the hard way that if he could not reclaim me after being with others, he would feel jealous. Jealousy has no logic, it just exists.
We worked it out. He was too hard on himself because he knows I am a person who enjoys swinging. I love him more than I like being a swinger. We will swing again when he returns.
The bottom line is you can be swingers for years and not find all the triggers for jealousy. Most vanilla couples would never have survived such a heart wrenching time. We did and thrived knowing we would work it out. It also proves that swingers need to have flexible and open relationships. True, at one time I could go off and play, but I would return to him at the end of the night. That will happen again. So when jealousy hits, take a pause, think about it and talk it out. Love your partner more than the jealousy, more than the "point" of the matter and fun happy times will be had by all.
See Other Posts
Swinger Plus Sized Girls Can and DO Get Laid In the Lifestyle.
The World Of Swinging Is Growing Rapidly And May Be For You
Is Swinging For You, Swingersocial has Been Fantastic For Many.
Why Our First Swap Was A Success In The Swinger Lifestyle
Here Are 4 Reasons How Swinging Can Liven Up Your Love Life
Pants On Or Pants Off Swingers?
Swingersocial Members Love Snowballing All About BJ's and Cum
How to find swinging partners on a swingers site?
Swingersocial tips to become or meet a Swinger
How to write a good swingers profile so your meet other swingers fast
Swingers Start Often In A Sexless Marriage
Swingersocial a Fresh Swingers Lifestyle Site
Swingersocial is active with the swinging life in North Carolina
Massachusetts Swingers Flock To Swingersocial.com
Looking For A Way To Deal With Your Stress? Try The Swinging Lifestyle.
The Best Swingers Site; Swingersocial Has Lots Of Couples And Singles Who Just Want To Have Fun
Swingersocial Has Upgraded It's Already Great Mobile-Friendly Software
The Best Swingers Site to Find Adult Contacts Close to You
Threesomes are not like regular sex
Swinger Central Girls On Swingersocial Hit Swingers Club
Swingersocial Upgrades Mobile-Friendly Software
Cuckholding in the Swinging Lifestyle, SwingerSocial has these wild couples
Best Place to Meet Local Swingers , Swingersocial
The World Of Swinging Is Growing Rapidly And May Be For You
How Swingersocial Made My Swinging Experiences Extraordinary
Joining A Swingers Site Like Swingersocial, It's Like A Joining A Dating Site.
Swingers Party Interrupted in Manhattan Hotel
Swingersocial Offers Features Making It Easy To Meet Other Swingers.


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About this Event
Saturday, October 12 - Pre-Ride Events - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
- 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Pre-Registration and Silent Auction
- 12:00 Noon – Bike Blessing
- 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm – Bike Show ( $5.00 to enter your motorcycle and votes are $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00)
- 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm – Vintage Vibe Band
October 13 – The Ride: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Lunch for All Registered Riders provided by SHAMROCK'S PUB & GRILL
- 10:00 am to 11:30 am - Registration
- 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Silent Auction
- 11:00 am – Our new Master of Ceremonies for Sundays festivities this year will be Steve Harris with KMOV TV, starting our next decade off to a great start!
- 11:30 am– Police Officer Katie Gutjar will be joining us again for our singing of the National Anthem honoring our military, police and firefighters and Bike Blessing. Color Guard presented by Sons of The American Legion Squadron 397
- 12:00 Noon - Ride Leaves
- 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm – Doug Holly Band and The Chain Drive Band
- 3:00 pm - Silent Auction Closes
- 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm – 50/50 Drawings and Awards
- Kids Korner- All day photo opts, games, and more
Wish Ambassador Drake
I wish to go to Gen Con in Indianapolis
Drake is 12 years old and was diagnosed with a brain tumor in August 2018. After a biopsy was performed, it resulted in 90% of tumor removal. With a few more complications and another surgery later, Drake is currently doing well and completed radiation therapy.
When asked to comment on her son's wish experience, his mom said: "My hope for him through this experience is for him to see how much bigger the world can be than his version of it. This wish experience would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for him while helping him explore the big world around him, including the goodness and generous nature of volunteers."
Wish Ambassador Oliver
I wish to go to Hot Wheels Headquarters in El Segundo, CA
Oliver is 8 years old and was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in November of 2018. He had his port inserted and began treatment. Despite how much Oliver's life has changed, he has been strong and resilient. Oliver enjoys cub scouts, his baseball team, riding his bike, swimming and Cardinal Games.
When asked to comment on her son's medical journey, his mom said: "These last few months have impacted us in ways I cannot describe. We have been blessed to have so much support from family, friends and so many others. This has been the emotional roller coaster of a lifetime. Every morning, I try to wake up from this nightmare we call our new normal. Then, I look at Oliver's sweet face and start the day."


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Spy Hop Productions
669 South West Temple, Suite 202Salt Lake City , UT , 84101
Phone: 801.532.750040° 45' 17.5824" N, 111° 53' 38.1948" W
See map: Google Maps
Contact name:
Jana Davis
Spy Hop's mission is to mentor young people in the digital media arts to help them find their voice, tell their stories, and be empowered to affect positive change in their lives, their communities, and the world. We envision a world in which all young people possess the skills and mindsets necessary for future success and that their voices are heard and valued in their communities. Since 1999, Spy Hop has mentored Utah's young people in the digital media arts as a vehicle for free expression, self-discovery, critical thinking, and skilled participation. Our afterschool and community programs in film, audio, music, and design are a model for youth development programs across the nation and Spy Hop is recognized by the White House as a leading nonprofit arts and humanities organization.
Academic, Science, Technology/Computers, Arts: Performance, Music, Arts: Visual, Film, Photography, Hands-on
Web Service


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Online Mobility Tool Store
JNJ Movement is a marketplace for self-care mobility products designed for injury prevention, injury rehabilitation, and sports performance enhancement. We choose to sell only the highest quality and most affordable products on the market.
Online Information Center
JNJ Movement provides educational information relating to use of the products sold. All educational information is developed by content experts with advanced degrees who have the consumer in mind. Check out our recent posts by accessing our blog.
Improvement through Movement
The Movement Team
JNJ Movement is committed to unifying all health and fitness professions that focus primarily on movement of the human body. The following health and fitness professionals make up The JNJ Movement Team. If you're a qualified individual from one of these professions and would like to join the team, we encouraged you to sign up to Become a Distributor of JNJ Movement today to start selling self-care mobility tools to your patients/clients. You'll receive access to wholesale pricing when you sign up. Let's all work together to help people learn to move as efficiently and effectively as possible.
Doctors of Physical Therapy
Two out of three of the owners of JNJ Movement are physical therapists. We wish to allow physical therapists across the US to become distributors of the products chosen by JNJ Movement. PTs are perfectly positioned to sell self-care mobility products to their patients to increase patient compliance, improve functional performance, and reduce recovery times.
Personal Trainers
Primary injury prevention as well as natural performance enhancement. Improving mobility keeps athletes in the gym and allows them to unlock hidden functional potential.
Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine
Prescribing a self-care mobility tool with an accompanying daily mobility routine can assist your patients with their health in today's ever-evolving, fast-paced healthcare system.
Yoga Instructors
Improvement Through Movement at its finest. When your classes are filled with people who want nothing more than to move well, self-care mobility tools can be a game-changer! Start selling them at your yoga studio today & many yogis will thank you tomorrow.
Crossfit Coaches
Discover the injury prevention and performance enhancement potential of self-maintenance. Adding a ten-minute mobility WOD before the daily WOD will keep cross fitters healthy and firing on all cylinders. Add a daily home mobility program into the mix and you've got yourself a recipe for success!
.. Need more information before you are ready to sign up? ..


text: a river in the Yamal-Nenets National Okrug, Tiumen' Oblast, RSFSR, on the Yamal Peninsula. Length, 300 km; basin area, 8,350 sq km. The river rises in Lake lambuto and flows in two branches into the Kara Sea. It is fed by snow and rain. Its right tributary is the Seiakha River. The Mordyiakha is well stocked with fish: muksun, least cisco and, at the river's mouth, navaga (Eleginus navaga), and smelt.


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- balances with foreign banks
- остатки на счетах иностранных балансов ;
Англо-Русский словарь финансовых терминов. 2000.
Смотреть что такое "balances with foreign banks" в других словарях:
Foreign exchange market — Forex redirects here. For the football club, see FC Forex Braşov. Foreign exchange Exchange rates Currency band Exchange rate Exchange rate regime Exchange rate flexibility Dollarization Fixed exchange rate Floating exchange rate Linked exchange… … Wikipedia
Foreign relations of South Korea — The foreign relations of South Korea are dominated by its relationships with North Korea, Japan, China and United States.The Constitution of the Sixth Republic vests the conduct of foreign affairs in the presidency and the State Council, subject… … Wikipedia
china — /chuy neuh/, n. 1. a translucent ceramic material, biscuit fired at a high temperature, its glaze fired at a low temperature. 2. any porcelain ware. 3. plates, cups, saucers, etc., collectively. 4. figurines made of porcelain or ceramic material … Universalium
China — /chuy neuh/, n. 1. People s Republic of, a country in E Asia. 1,221,591,778; 3,691,502 sq. mi. (9,560,990 sq. km). Cap.: Beijing. 2. Republic of. Also called Nationalist China. a republic consisting mainly of the island of Taiwan off the SE coast … Universalium
ECONOMIC AFFAIRS — THE PRE MANDATE (LATE OTTOMAN) PERIOD Geography and Borders In September 1923 a new political entity was formally recognized by the international community. Palestine, or Ereẓ Israel as Jews have continued to refer to it for 2,000 years,… … Encyclopedia of Judaism
Economic Affairs — ▪ 2006 Introduction In 2005 rising U.S. deficits, tight monetary policies, and higher oil prices triggered by hurricane damage in the Gulf of Mexico were moderating influences on the world economy and on U.S. stock markets, but some other… … Universalium
Federal Reserve System — FRB and FED redirect here. For other uses, see FRB (disambiguation) and FED (disambiguation). Federal Reserve System … Wikipedia
Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 — This article is about one division of an enacted statute. For the entire statute, see Public Law 110 343. For the enacted rescue program, see Troubled Asset Relief Program. The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (Division A of Pub.L.… … Wikipedia
Subprime mortgage crisis — Part of a series on: Late 2000s financial crisis Major dimensions … Wikipedia
United States — a republic in the N Western Hemisphere comprising 48 conterminous states, the District of Columbia, and Alaska in North America, and Hawaii in the N Pacific. 267,954,767; conterminous United States, 3,022,387 sq. mi. (7,827,982 sq. km); with… … Universalium
Money supply — Finance Financial markets Bond market … Wikipedia


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1516 State Rt 23 Butler, NJ 074059734921700
Hot & Cold Appetizers
Anthony Francos Pizza

Best Pizza In Town - All Home Made Ingredients SMALL 14 or LARGE 16 Inch Pizza

Chef Salad

Ham, turkey, Swiss on a bed of green topped with tomato, onions and hard boiled eggs.

Chicken Florentina
Chicken breast sauteed in white wine topped with fresh tomatoes, spinach mozzarella in a light red sauce.
Chipotle Salad
Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, cheddar cheese, chopped chicken cutlet and chipotle ranch dressing.
Eggplant Rollatine

Eggplant filled with cheese topped with marinara sauce & mozzarella

House Salad with Grilled Chicken

Iceberg lettuce with tomato, carrots, onions, cucumbers, grilled chicken and olives.

Seafood Marechiara

A combination of shrimp, clams, mussels and calamari in our special marinara sauce.

Shrimp Fra Diavolo

Sauteed with garlic and wine in a spicy hot tomato sauce over linguini.

Shrimp Marinara

Sauteed in a tomato sauce, garlic and white wine served over linguini.

Veal Florentina

Veal sauteed in white wine, topped with fresh tomato, spinach & mozzarella in a light red sauce.

Veal Pizzaiola

Veal sauteed with onions, peppers, black olives & mushrooms in a red sauce.

Veal Saltimbocca

Veal sauteed with prosciutto, spinach in wine sauce topped with mozzarella.

Thai Seafood Soup
Shrimp, scallop, crabmeat, white fish and mixed vegetable in Thai spicy broth.
Celebrating? Having a party or need a place to meet? Let us do the work. We have large party rooms for any occasion or let us bring the party to you with our catering service.


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The editorial "Dignified mourning for 9/11" [Sept. 9] ended with, "That's all that's needed to remind us of what we can't forget." Oh, if only that were true!
In 50 years or less, Ground Zero will just be another tourist attraction. Why do I write this? Recently, I was fortunate to visit the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor. This is a hallowed and sacred place of another era.
Visitors were laughing, joking and just having a grand old time while the men and women who defended our country lay beneath their feet. The park ranger clapped his hands to get everyone's attention to explain that the memorial should be treated with reverence and respect. There were snickers and comments.
Ground Zero will be another chapter of U.S. history passing into oblivion.
David Smith, Hicksville
Reading that the presidential candidates were setting aside negative campaigning on Sept. 11, I was struck by how fitting it is for our leaders to commemorate the occasion in this way.
It seems appropriate on this anniversary of shared loss to set aside partisan politics and negativity and to focus on the many needs and goals we have in common. It my hope that we could expand on this notion and in some way make it part of our annual observance. If there is one lesson to be taken from the sacrifice of the innocents, and the valiant efforts of the responders, it is that we are all in this together.
Andrew Barkus, Centereach
We're revamping our Comments section. Learn more and share your input.


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Canton Ohio's #1 Custom Wheel Dealer
Autosport Plus
Autosport Plus located on Rt.62 in Canton, Ohio offers the area's largest selection of custom truck and Jeep wheels. Have a lifted truck or Jeep? Don't buy a wheel that won't fit, or is the incorrect offset, shop the specialists at Autosport Plus. Just look at our parking lot on a daily basis, WE KNOW TRUCKS & JEEPS! Stop in today. Shipping available. 330.454.5705
Address - 2136 Columbus Rd. NE Canton, Ohio 44705
Phone - 330.454.5705
Hours - Monday-Friday 10-7 Saturday 10-5
Canton and Akron Ohio's premier Dealer of custom rims, tires, truck lifts, accessories, remote starts, audio upgrades, and more.
Below is a small sample of Ballistic wheels available from Autosport Plus in Canton, Ohio. Ballistic custom rims are available in a large selection of sizes and fitments for most models of Jeeps and trucks. For pricing, shipping information, and product availability contact one of our custom wheel specialists at 330.454.5705. You can also drop us an email at firstname.lastname@example.com Financing and custom paint options available.


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Lip biting, check. Neck kissing, check. Pool floating, check. Get sexy on our Bite Me Inflatable. Sink your teeth into some rest and relaxation in the pool. This inflatable float is the perfect accessory for lounging in the sun, smooching your crush, or taking a cute kiss face selfie. I mean, check out Irina Shayk, showing off her post-baby body. The Bite Me measures 72 inches long and 45 inches wide, probably the biggest lips you will ever see. At least there is one set of lips at the party guaranteed to come with no regrets. Kisses!
Dimensions: 72" x 45"
The Pool Room Floats use only the highest quality materials and are sourced from reliable suppliers. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed.


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Dear Alan and Pat
After sitting in the church on Wednesday watching Vicky Knight give the most inspiring address and amazing demonstration of mediumship I just wanted to write and thank you all at Croydon Spiritualist Church for all that you do.
As I sat on Wednesday it made me reflect on how my life has changed, unfolded and opened so many doors that were waiting to open when I first came along 3 years ago.
I've always loved a bigger spiritual picture, always knowing that there is more than we could ever know or understand.
I've seen many a medium, tried many an 'alternative therapy' and always looked for a sign or two!!
Little did I know when I met Pat's daughter several years ago in different circumstances and she said 'pop along to Croydon Spiritualist Church when you can because my mum and step dad are very involved there, how much these few words would change my life!
So 3 years ago with lots of issues going on for me I found myself sitting in the church. The love, the peace, some amazing proof that our loved ones are with us and addresses that gave me light bulb moments, I knew I was being given more helping signs from spirit.
Truthfully these moments helped me more than I could ever explain.
So with many a door opening, I absolutely love being a trainee healer and being part of a team who help those wanting healing. I sit in a small developmental circle that is full of fun, love, kindness and support.
I'm in awe of all that spirit has opened for me when the time was right in my life so I continue to trust, be part of the amazing healing team and circle and can't thank you all enough for how you continue to help me and everyone who walks through the door of the Church.
It is truly a remarkable place.
I hope tomorrow's celebrations (church birthday party) go well and sorry that I can't join you all. However, I shall raise a glass on my deckchair to thank you all, spirit and the bigger picture that supports and guides us all.


text:
I love a good lip balm! Despite having so many lip balms and loving many of them, I seem to always want to collect more. So when I had an opportunity to test one of these, I gratefully accepted.
I've not come across the brand before, but was excited to try them based on the description which says:
Bali Balm is a new luxury lip-balm brand for men and women. Its rich, intensive formula is both vegan and 100% natural, containing plant oils high in antioxidants and antibacterial properties. Bali Balm has been perfected to absorb quickly and lock in moisture without leaving a waxy film on the surface of your lips.
I was sent the cinnamon and burnt orange one which is described as:
A joyous combination of toasty spiced Cinnamon paired with sumptuous caramelised organic Orange. Muscovado sweetness meets heady aromas to provide an affectionate glow on the lips.
The delightful aromas of toasted cinnamon and sweet caramelised orange peel infuse this vitamin-rich lip balm. Cinnamon is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help improve blood circulation for plumper, more kissable lips. Orange peel is packed with antioxidants and provides a sweet, energising aroma.
So, what's it like? Well, I have to say I'm impressed (and having tried so many lip balms it takes something special to impress me!). It's a very thick balm so it can be a bit tricky to use at first, but the applicator works really well and it smooths across the lips nicely. It's a nice smooth consistency, not at all grainy as some lip balms can be.
The cinnamon definitely seems to give it a bit of a kick so it does tingle slightly (in a good way). I guess this is what plumps the lips. It feels nice!
I'm not sure I'd agree that it absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a film, as I find it does, but that's what I want in a lip balm. It's not sticky but it stays on the lips and keep them moisturised for a while.
It doesn't have any tint to it, but does provide a slight sheen which I like.
In summary
Rich, thick lip balm which moisturises and nourishes lips well. Indulgent scent (and taste!) which reminds me of winter.
Not sure. I do really like it, but I have so many lip balms and I'm not sure this fulfils a category that I don't already have filled!


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Head Coach
Sean McVay
Head Coach
On January 12, 2017, Los Angeles Rams Owner/ Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke named Sean McVay the 23rd full-time head coach in franchise history. McVay became the youngest coach in modern NFL history.
Wade Phillips
Defensive Coordinator
Wade Phillips, who is in his 50th year of coaching, enters his third season with the Rams as defensive coordinator on Head Coach Sean McVay's staff.
John Fassel
Special Teams Coordinator
The Rams have developed a reputation for delivering the unexpected in the kicking game, and special teams coordinator John Fassel is at the helm of the trickery that has helped the Rams become one of the NFL's best when it comes to special teams.
Aaron Kromer
Run Game Coordinator
Aaron Kromer begins his third season with the Los Angeles Rams, his second season serving as the team's run game coordinator.
Shane Waldron
Pass Game Coordinator/Quarterbacks Coach
Shane Waldron is entering his sixth NFL season, third with the Los Angeles Rams, second season serving as the team's passing game coordinator and first season as quarterbacks coach.
Position Coaches
Assistant Defensive Line/Defensive Quality Control
Thad Bogardus
Experience: 6 years
Assistant Special Teams
Matt Daniels
Experience: 2 years


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text:
The 'Gift' of A.A.
I was pretty sure I'd make it to today; once you do something for 41 years; it becomes part of your life. – So, what's so fundamental to me today? Right?…. Well, it's my 41st "birfday" in A.A. — Can you imagine?? Better yet, can I imagine….
Let's see, it all started about nine months earlier than I was born, in 1945… "Just joking" here; – I'm not going to bore you with that. ALSO, I'm not going to bore you with how I got from my very last drink to 41years sober… I WILL say this… it's been a strange / wonderful / weird / joyful… (I'm sure you get the picture here) journey.
My A.A. birthday always makes me ponder… it's like a "bell-shaped" curve; it leads up to a peak… say, 30 days on either side… There's WAY more thoughtfulness / contemplation that goes into my A.A. birthday… than my natal birthday. To us in A.A., one's natal birthday is an 'accident' of biology, opportunity, and a HOST of other factors. — On the other hand, our A.A. birthday is INTENTIONAL! — It's hard to say which one is more important. I'll put it this way; I wouldn't trade my A.A. "experience"… from overt uncontrollable drinking, to overt peacefulness… for anything I can think of. I've told many, many people over the years that A.A. is about 10% on how to stop drinking, and about 90% on how to live a "good, orderly" life.
In A.A., we're non-religious, and non-denominational. — — (Ahem…) However we are VERY "spiritual"; in fact we don't even use the word: "God"… (in a sneaky sort of way.) — Instead of using the term "God", we use the 'acronym': "G-O-D" in its place. – To us, "G-O-D"… stands for "Good Orderly Direction". We call it (literally) the "gift" of A.A. – Yeah, yeah… I know… you hear all the public "PR" about A.A. (and other programs) helping you END your addiction to alcohol and drugs (alcohol is a 'drug', btw)… But what you NEVER hear (unless you go to A.A. meetings, get a sponsor, and "immerse" yourself in A.A.) – is the raw "BEAUTY" of A.A.; the "transcendence" of A.A.
I have also stated "many, many" times that I wish EVERYONE could be an alcoholic, – just so they could experience the "magic" of being a RECOVERING 'alcoholic". The "gift of A.A." is a profound, unexplainable, majestic, "shared" experience. – "Rebirth" is referenced frequently in biblical scripture… Trust me, GENUINE "re-birth" is experienced by millions of people, every day, throughout the world, in A.A. – Look around you sometime, even if you're NOT an alcoholic… Here's the test: if your own life is in conflict and turmoil, pick up "the Big-Book" of Alcoholics Anonymous and read it. They're not hard to find.— I've recommended the principles of A.A. to more NON-alcoholics than I have to "alkys" —- If you want to sincerely change your life… buy one from Amazon and read it. — I say this kindly and respectfully, "Your life will change; you'll never be the same."
Welp, once again, I've gotten "preachy". I promise myself every year that I won't do that. I guess the overwhelming "peace and understanding" of A.A. is… just too compelling… I always want to share 'the gift of A.A.' with everyone. — And, over these past 41 years, I guess I have.
Now that the preaching is over, I want to pay tribute to a man I knew for more than a half-century. His name is Tommy Ellis… He was the first person I ever got an adult-job with. It was in the investment business, "stocks and bonds." — Tommy took flight and began exploring the wonders of the Universe this past March 22nd , 2019. Tommy lived in Vero Beach, Florida. I rode my bike (motorcycle) to specifically see him in 2016. I was pretty sure he was in his 'end-of-life' cycle; and I wanted to tell him how much he had meant to me over the years. Tommy served as an "Airman", in the Air Force and worked on his 'birds', (that's what he called the planes) the brave pilots flew. He told me there was a 'special' connection between mechanic and pilot, and I knew he meant it. – He told me he felt "responsible" for their safety; and he wasn't joking.
There was also a 'special connection' to me and Tommy. —- Tommy was the Municipal Bond Manager at the investment firm of Norris & Hirshberg, in Atlanta when I met him. I was barely literate, and had ZERO knowledge of investments, ESPECIALLY municipal bonds. – Tommy, very patiently taught me how the investment business worked. – AND… he became my friend. The 'war-stories' I could tell you about our "investment-adventures" would fill a book…. IN FACT, there IS a book that relates to it… it's called "Liar's Poker", by Michael Lewis (the same guy who wrote: "Money Ball")
Tommy Ellis was the nicest guy I've ever known (it's an underrated quality.) He was also one of the most respected. He was known by his peers in the investment community as "the one guy" you could always count on to tell you the truth. (That's a rare commodity in the investment arena.)
Tommy taught me everything I know about the investment business… and I taught HIM everything I knew about the 'sales-aspect'. He told me one time that I was 'THE best' he had ever seen. I responded in kind, "Tommy, you were my 'professor'; you (sometimes) kept me on the 'straight 'n narrow'… and I ALWAYS respected you in ALL your life-endeavors.
So, as "Airman", Thomas H. Ellis takes flight one more time…. Join me in a silent moment to whisper a prayer of "safe-passage" to Tommy… "Tommy, my friend, how I miss you, – what great times we had; – we knew and loved each other for a half-century; – you really were THE BEST!"
Tom Adair May 15th , 2019
On Turning 74… – "Tom's Take"
Welp, to be honest, it's like being in a time-warp (cue in: "Rocky Horror Picture Show") – I recently read a book about 'Time', (Carlo Ravolli), and the author makes several points about the 'fluidity' of time… Put another simpler way, "Time is strange" — That's the same way it is turning 74. – I can barely say it… We've all known "old people", especially when we were young. But now, BEING seriously one of those 'old people' is difficult for me to comprehend; to put in its proper place.
It's NOT that I want to go back, necessarily (since my time-machine isn't close by); its not that I missed anything along the way. I intentionally took a full swing at the plate, and have enjoyed the ride. — So what's my 'bitch', right? – I'm not sure Hunny-Bunny. – I don't have any apparent fear of dying… On the living front, I've got most of the toys I want (I tried to get my wife to buy me a Walther PPK at Christmas, but she wouldn't do it.) – I've been to enough places here and there… so that the only thing I think I'm missing is Devil's Tower in Wyoming… AND… I'm riding my motor-sickle there this summer.
So what IS this thing called love… oops, I mean, what IS this thing called, 'turning 74'? I Don't know for sure. I think it has to do with 'relevance'; or the lack thereof. Nobody's very much interested in my sage advice / comment / observation… AND… I agree with them. I was much the same way when I was young man marching forward. I think the only 'old' person I ever paid any mind to was this guy sitting on a porch one time out in bum-blank, Nebraska. I didn't even know him. I was riding through Bum-blank one bleak winter day… and saw him sitting up on his front porch, 'rockin' (mind you, this was in the winter-time.) I looked through my windshield and saw him wave to me. I stopped the car, got out, and went up on the porch to visit with him.
We really DID 'sit for a spell' (it's a southern term), I told him all my perceived troubles, and in the end, he said "It really will all just work out fine." – Which, if you think about it… is universally true. An interesting thing about that visit was that I went out to see him the following spring; I wanted to tell him that things really were getting better. I went up to knock on his door.. an old 'farm-wife' in an apron came to the door, quizzically… I told her I talked to her husband, (I guessed) back the previous winter. She graciously invited me inside, we sat down, she went into the kitchen to fix us some tea, and sure enough, there was her husband's picture, in a small frame, on the top of an upright piano, along with several others.
When she came back, I motioned to the picture, and said,"That's a flattering picture of your husband, ma'am." She said, "Oh, he's been dead for going on 15 years now." (I crap you not) – I gulped and turned a bit pale. Then she said, "You know, several people have stopped by over the years and said they talked to him." – I asked her if she had ever had any vague feeling he was still around. She said, "Sometimes, in odd ways; maybe a tool out of place in the barn… a strange humming bird looking at me, and not moving… sometimes, an old dog will mosey up on the porch and stay a bit, then move on." – She told me these things, and seemed very lucid in the recollection.
So, maybe that's what happens when you turn 74/84/94… Maybe you just go on living; and aren't encumbered by the perceived concepts of time. According to ol' Carlo up above… "All time (past, present, future) is happening all at the same time, all over the Universe." – As I turn 74, I don't 'Get' being 74… What I DO "get" is that it's a strange number that doesn't apply to me. In math, there are 'imaginary' numbers; — well, to me, 74 is an imaginary number. Also, ol' Carlo said: "Time is different for all of us (it's provable), and the way we see time is personalized. — I think, guess, hope he is right. – The 'Blue-Grass' singer, Ralph Stanly, wrote a song one time called: "Oh, Death"…. In the refrain, he wrote, "Oh Death… oh death… won't you 'spar' me over just another 'yar'" (it's hard to write blue-grass) – So, that's what I'm thinking, Death has spar'd me over another year. I'm actually going to play that song right after this post.
So, how's everything on my end? A 'report' you might say? – Well, I still go to the gym, still ride my motor-sickle, still go "shootin'", gamblin', and knocking up run-away teenage girls…
So, as much as I'm surprised to still be here… "Hey, life's good"
Y'all come out to Las Vegas sometime, ya heah?"
Peace and out.
Las Vegas Slim…
May 15th, 1978…
…40 years ago today.
At about 10:00 o'clock in the morning, I got into a disagreement with "Atlanta's Finest". – After a lengthy discussion, (and a little physicality), I finally got into their police cruiser, and they took me to Atlanta City Jail. THEN… they REALLY 'splaind' it to me, Lucy… That was a Friday, and coincidentally, the day I took my last drink of alcohol.
On the following TUESDAY, I came out of my baton-induced coma, in a jail cell… and realized (it helps your 'clearer thinking' to be without alcohol for 4 or 5 days), that I was probably going to die, (from alcoholism.) This is no joke, I REALLY DID get down on my knees in that jail cell and ENTREATED (begged) God to help me. (There's a difference between 'asking' and 'begging'.)
As Johnny Carson used to say, "I kid you not"… while I was still begging, a 'white-mist' came into that jail cell; a lot like what you see when you open the door to a 'steam-room'. That mist… whirled around… then "presto-snappo"; hey, I knew I was different. It could have been the "D-Ts", right? – I agree… maybe… I DID have them on and off; (if you've never seen snakes crawling on your ceiling, or out of the phone, you haven't lived.) But somehow or other, when you're in the presence of a 'Deity', you almost always know it. Even to a still drunk brain like mine, I somehow or other heard that old refrain, "Amazing Grace", – 'When He reached down and saved a wretch like me." (It's STILL one of my favorite songs, I'm actually humming it right now as my eyes get blurry.)
Okay, so I got out of that jail cell, and started going to A.A. – I went to two meetings a day for the first five years. I celebrated my 1st A.A. birthday back in Atlanta, and thought it was the grandest thing that ever happened to me. Number '2', came next, then 3 thru 4, and so on. – When I got to my 10th, I 'took note'… that was the first time I was ever sober longer than I was drunk (which was 9 years.)
15 years came, so did 20, 30 (it was VERY memorable), then 35… and now today. "Who would have thunk?" "Right?" — Just so you know, only 20% of alcoholics actually recover. That means the other 80% DIE! (or become 'institutionalized', like prison, or asylums.) – Alcoholism claims 500 doctors a year, 30% of the airline pilots who take off… are legally drunk when they do it. – Alcohol, itself, as a drug… is a toxin to the body. That beer, that casual glass of wine… you drink on a pleasant afternoon contains more than an ounce of ETHANOL. – You can run cars on ethanol. That's what they put in 'dragsters' at the drag-strip. – The point being here is that you don't have to actually become a roaring drunk to feel the debilitating effects of alcohol on the body. That's worth thinking about.
So what happened, right? – Hey, I haven't had any form of alcohol in 40 years. But, you know what's even more important?, — "A.A." teaches the alcoholic how to have a successful life. Not just financially, but on every plain; health / serenity / 'wholesomeness', good-humor, 'gratitude', having a 'spirit-filled-life', joy, mirth, serenity… I could go on and on about the 'gifts' of A.A. – I've summed it up before by saying: A.A. is about 10% of how to stop drinking, and about 90% of how to live a successful life.
Well, there have certainly been "the vicissitudes of life" along the way. Was it a 45-degree, straight 'trend-line'? – No. On the other hand, it WAS an upward trend-line. In A.A. we don't claim perfection; we try to make 'progress' each day. Progress on all fronts, health, wealth, happiness, serenity.
Anyway, I know I'm 'preaching' here, and I'm gonna stop. I just wanted to reach out to you-all today and share my happiness with you. I also wanted to help you understand that if you have a problem with alcohol (or drugs) — OR… if you have a family-member, friend, 'associate', even an 'acquaintance'… let them know…. that YOU KNOW… at least one alcoholic who was pretty sure he was gonna die from alcohol. And then, add this: "Ya know, BECAUSE OF A.A., he hasn't had a drink in 40 years… then, put in… "Maybe you can find some help in A.A. too."
(Preaching again, Right?, I know, I know… I'll stop)
Hey, "Joy and goodwill to you folks today", — forty years ago today the Universe change for me, and I'm better off for it. (You are too, by the way.)
Peace, out.
Hey yo…
"Long time, no hear", right? – Sorry about that. "Been busy", does that work? (No, I didn't think so)
Well, let's see… I've been refining my work on my anti-gravity boots invention; I wrote a screen-play for Brad Pitt; consulted on the Raider's move to Las Vegas (Go Raiders) – mostly boring.
I DID take a little trip to a bed 'n breakfast in Bishop, California. It's called: "Rainbow Tarns" (here's the link) – In case you don't know, a "Tarn" is a small pond, (I know, I didn't know that either.) It was unusually good, highly recommended, in fact.
What else? Well, the most interesting thing I've done in 2017 is take up a new hobby; "Ham-Radio". My wife gave me a book over the winter called "Brain Power", and one of its suggestions, especially for… uh… (ahem…) "older-folk" (yikes!) is to learn something new. The author stressed it can't be just a new crossword puzzle. He suggested that one should consider learning a new language, say like Russian, or maybe Japanese. His point is… if you learn something REALLY new, you make new connections (dendrites) in your brain. He compared it to exercising the body. The phrase he used was: "If you're going to exercise your bicep, you might as well exercise your brain." –
I thought that was good advice to 'seniors', 'the mature', maybe including "the middle-aged". And.. I thought it was excellent advice to me. So, since I can't even spell 'Japaneese', and I thought "Rushia" was a verb… I took up "Amateur Radio"… (ham radio) — or, "radidio" as we call it in the So-uth.
I was pretty sure I didn't know what an electron was… so my 'non-knowledge' would be perfect for: "learning something new." – I took my first class back on January 25th and got my "Technician" designation. I progressed to the "General" course about a month later, and got my ticket in March. What the hell, I figured: "In for a penny, in for a pound" — and I started studying for the final designation on March 13th. It's called "Amateur-Extra", and with that license, one has ALL the privileges the FCC bestows on the public. – I got that sucker on May 6th. (HooRay!) – It's actually a pretty big deal in "Ham-World", — 50 random questions pulled from a pool of 700. The questions are written so that ANY of them are at least plausible. (Point being, you actually have to KNOW the subject (electronic THEORY) – just 'guessing' won't work.
Let's see… what else… Oh yeah, there's one more thing, today… May 15th… 39 years ago, I had my last drink of alcohol (on the advice of the Atlanta Police Dept.) – Turns out, alcohol impairs your judgment. "Who'd a thunk?"
It's been a long journey, on my last day of drinking, 39 years ago, I weighed 168 pounds, drank 12 ounces of vodka every two hours, and had "the shakes" so bad, I couldn't lift the glass to my lips (I used a straw.) – I'm a HUGE advocate for A.A. – Millions of people have gotten sober, and stay sober through the miracle of A.A. – The tragic thing is how deadly alcoholism and drug-abuse is. Only 20% survive. Put another way, the death-rate for alcoholism / drug abuse is 80%. Remember "alcohol" is a drug… There are other drugs out there that are just as deadly as alcohol.
As a matter of fact, a close friend of mine lost a family member to drugs very recently. If you get a chance today, say a prayer for "D", the universe will know who it is… When you get through with that prayer, – say another one for "D's" family. They're heart-broken.
There's a tenet in A.A. I like a lot: "There but for the grace of God, goes I." — I always re-phrase it to state: "There but for the grace of God, goes YOU!" – Think about it, and count your blessings if you haven't had to deal with the ravages of alcohol and drug abuse.
(And don't forget that prayer, either)
'The Rubber Duck'
(KI7KGP) — by god…
Check-out Ride to the DNWR…
Hey, take a look at my "Tweet" buttons on my blog. Just like Donald Trump, I've decided to 'tweet'. I was actually encouraged to do this by a friend of mine up in Ottawa, Canada. He said I was funny and amusing (Is that a compliment??) and I ought to share some of my 'horse sh…' – uh… share some of my humor with my readers. So here ya go… hit the "Follow@Tom_Adair" button over on the right, and I'll share some (non-presidential) thoughts with you.
Now, back to my blog… — guess what, I went over to the Desert National Wildlife Refuge (DNWR) the other day
to 'check out' my dirt bike. You may recall, I had the 'top-end' rebuilt, and I wanted to see how it ran.
Oh by the way, do any of you recall me telling you MANY MANY times in the past to ALWAYS top off your gas tank BEFORE you leave on a ride? Huh? Well, motorcycles are just like airplanes without wings… they run on FUEL… GAS… not air. — AND… the only time they run out of gas is in the most inconvenient place. Now if you're in an airplane, ya kinda 'stall / spin / turn / auger / and hit the ground with great force. Same with motor-sickles… when they run out of gas, you're usually on the freeway, between TWO FedEx trucks that are pulling trip-trailers; (most of the time in the rain.)
Well, that actually DIDN'T happen to me… but, I DID run out of blanking gas. Had to pull over to the side of a (major) road… cold, windy, pissed (and embarrassed.) After I pulled over, it WOULD NOT crank. Period. Which brings up my "btw" above. If I have told you peeps once, I've told you a thousand times: "Always, always… top off your tank." Got it? Yeah well, 'familiarity breeds contempt, right?" – It is almost a 'tenant-of-life'. For instance, modestly put, I'm pretty 'gun-familiar'. I was in the military, fired zillions of shots, TAUGHT gun-safety, was many times "Firing-range Sergeant", blah/blah/blah… and would you believe I've had TWO accidental 'discharges' from guns I KNEW were NOT loaded? I mean, I knew like gravity, they weren't loaded. Like I said, 'familiarity breeds contempt.' (Let me know if you folks want to hear the corresponding stories.)
Get this… when I headed out on my bike to the 'DNWR', I actually RODE past THREE different places to gas up. The reason I didn't???????????????????????????? Because I KNEW I had plenty of gas. ELSE… I would have gassed up. Did I ever mention anything to you guys about, uh… "Familiarity?" – So, I ran outta gas. Bummer. — Now there I was, sitting forlornly beside the road, – cold, disgusted, shaking my fist toward the sky, cursing the 'motor-sickle gods'. – THEN… out of the blue… I had an idea!! … "THE RESERVE"… Ah yes, turn the fuel valve on the gas-tank to the 'reserve' position. (Pant-pant…) – Well, I did, (and held my breath for good measure) then, pressed the start-button… and by god, (literally) – it cranked. I immediately apologized to the motor-sickle gods, and swore I'd go to church on Sunday. (This time, I really mean it.)
Ya know, I have to admit, after I got back on 95, I WAS kinda holding my breath a little. But, it ran… perhaps a little s-l-o-w-l-y, I mean it IS only a 'thumper' (one-cylinder), and it's 200ccs at that; but it ran. — So, in several more miles, I got to the 'DNWR' and dismounted.
— NO ONE… I mean NOOOO-ONE was there; for MILES! Hey, 'who cares?' Right? So, I took some pics, walked around the place a bit… "tagged it" with some spray paint (just kidding) and called my wife to tell her the 'shake-down' ride went unusually well; "no problems." Like all wives, she knows when I'm lying, and asked me "What's wrong?" — I actually wonder how wives do that. I know they're smarter than guys for sure; better judgment, clearer insight… it's just the silent 'haughtiness' that bugs me. Kinda like "we guys" are to be "put up with"…. AND… she's probably right.
So, on the way back, I made a MAJOR decision. I WILL NOT FAIL TO TOP OFF MY TANK AGAIN!!… I said it three times. — I mean it this time, really. Also, I decided to "jet" my carb.
To you non-motor-sicklists out there… that means to modify it so it sends more gas to the engine, THUS… more horsepower. It's kind of a big deal, really. Motorcycles are very similar to (wait for it…) violins. You heard me. Violins. — They have to be 'tuned'… tuned to the terrain, the rider, the altitude, the anticipated speed, (slow OR fast) etc., etc., etc. – and MINE needs more gas… (So I can run outta gas quicker, right?) – No, smarty pants… ya see pilgrim, since I KNOW I'm prone towards poor judgment in the gas-department… I ALWAYS carry some extra "Few-ell" with me.
Note the red, extra gallon of gas strapped to my bike when I was riding out to the DNWR, (Just in case…) – Gotcha!
So that's what I plan to do with my re-jetted, gas-using bike… I'm gonna carry extra fuel on the bike, and also in my 'twuck'. I'll outwit those motor-sickle gremlins yet. –
Now, depending on the W-E-A-T-H-E-R, (it's cold out here, like 56 degrees, brrr…) I might go up to Death Valley next week for a REAL shakedown ride. It's ca, ca, COLD in Death Valley… already down to 51 degrees, (brrrrr…) – Well, anyway, you get my point, if the ol' weather-gods smile on me next week, and I can remember to top off my gas-tank… I'll likely go take a peek.
Till then, "Over and out"
The Desert Fox
PS – here's my "Tracking-Page" (http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0seJseUF8nps5v94ORZolubfWN1AosNFO)
"Death Valley Dirt Digger…"
So, it's been a while, huh? –
Yeah, I know, nothing since May 29th… Am I still alive, or whut?
Yes, I am… — DAMNNNN…. It was hot this summer, wasn't it?? Geez – 119 degrees on July 3rd –
So, here's the deal. While I was out on my Can-Am this past May, I decided I needed to 'do' something "motor-cycly" during the 'off-season.' I already know my big ride for next year is up the California coast on the Pacific Coast Highway; also called California Highway 1.
I mean, if you're a motor-sickle person… you've got to see this thing; — here… take a look: Pacific Coast Highway
I'll be starting from just north of LA and going up to see my former motorcycle-mechanic, who moved to Vancouver Island. The 'PCH' is about 1,300 miles up the coast and goes up thru all the famous names; check this out: 'Marina Del Rey' / 'Santa Monica' / 'Big Sur' / 'Monterey' / 'Frisco' / 'Portland'/ 'Seattle' — Who wouldn't want to cruise thru there?, huh…
Buttttttt… that's NEXT year, prolly some time in May/June. – in the MEAN TIME… I bought a 2005 Yamaha TW200 (200-cc) dirt bike to ride around / thru / all-over Death Valley.
The deal on the "Tee-Dub" (that's what they call it) is that it's kind of a goat. Not too fast on asphalt, (like '55'), but it'll climb a tree.
I'm kind of a 'geology-geek', and 'picking-around' in DV is sort of appealing to me. Also, you never know who you'll meet in DV… You wouldn't believe the famous people who have moseyed through there… and NOT just Charles Manson, either. (He used to have a run-down ranch on the edge of DV)
One of the several places to ride on your bike is "Titus Canyon":
Another is "The Racetrack"… they call it that for the "slow-moving" ROCKS there…
"Ubehebe-Crater" is another famous landmark in DV
Anyway, there's a bunch of sights to see, and I'm looking forward to seeing them all. I'm going to use "Beatty, Nevada" as my 'head-quarters', and then mosey out on 'day-trips', kinda like spokes in a wheel. I'm WAY 'geared-up'… it's called "DEATH-Valley" for a reason, you know… I even have fresh batteries in my 'spot-device', so you'll be able to track me on my daily runs.
All in all… I plan to do several "three-or-four-day" tours to various point in DV between now and next May. Gonna take lots of pics… write lots of "exposes", Gonna camp next to "Area-51" and see if I can spot some UFOs.
I "think" my first sojourn will be in the first week after Thanksgiving. I just had the 'top-end' of my dirt bike rebuilt,
…and I need to check it out over in a desert park near me called: "Desert National Wildlife Refuge"
It's pretty similar to DV, but is only 17 miles away from where I live. – If my 'shake-down' goes well in the Wildlife Refuge, then I'm off to DV.
Here is some 'folk-lore' about DV, (ghosts and all)
Who wouldn't want to go there, huh?
Just so you know… among my OTHER surveil-gear is a .44 magnum, a .38 'back up', a "Bear Grylls" survival knife, and my personal "Ernest Emerson Combat Folder" knife. (Gonna leave the grenade-launcher at home.)
I'm sure I'll be fine… I've got several people watching me on my "Spot-Device" – I just told 'em "If the spot stops moving, take note." — (Actually, it has an "S.O.S" feature on it, just in case)
I'll be sending updates and pics from the 'Valley" soon… I've got a 'low-light' camera, a 'low-light video-cam' and 'low-lite' binocs to see what the deal is on those moving rocks. (AND… Area-51)
If I get abducted by a flying saucer, I'll wave at you as we fly by.
PS – here's my "Tracking-Page" (http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0seJseUF8nps5v94ORZolubfWN1AosNFO)
"Green Can-Am, – Comin' in HOT!!"
692 miles in eleven hours, flat… not bad, not bad at all…
See, I told you I wasn't very smart, NO ONE should do a ride like that. If you were watching my "tracker" (thanks to all of you who were 'riding' with me… I felt your presence), there were a LOT of times I was over 90… particularly on the 'down-hill' stretch.
My 'boyz' greeted me when I got in… check out their bandannas (they say: "Welcome" – "Home")
Cute, huh…
I left Santa Rosa at about 6:30ish… blasted outta there and immediately started 'crusin', you know… my favorite speed: 87. I blew thru the New Mexico low-lands ridin' easy. Everything was coo' till I got to Albuquerque. I rolled onto a HELLACIOUS accident on their downtown connecter. Six lanes of traffic (just on one side), ALL backed up and snarled. I'm embarrassed to say – I'm one of those motorcycle riders you hate. You know, the ones who dart between lanes & lines, disobey the 'rules'… get in between spaces where cars can't go. (Just so you know, I always ask for forgiveness and pray for redemption when I get home.)
So what about the wreck, right? – Hey, it was a first-class mess. As I wound my way around, (with people giving me the finger), I saw an older GoldWing motorcycle lying on its side. Not 200 feet further was a flatbed truck with its industrial equipment all over the place. Maybe 10 cop-cars channeling traffic, and bunches of officers screaming and yelling at people. (You KNOW it's tuff to be a cop.)
Thankfully, the GoldWing rider was seated in the grass with some EMT-guys gathered around him. — SOooo… while everyone was banging about, taking care of 'bidness', — *I* snuck past and around some slightly 'out of place' (with the aid of my boot) police barriers. I looked over at one cop, as if to say, "Is this okay?" – He just nodded, annoyingly, and I could hear his mind-talk, (You smart-alec asshole, git your ass outta here.) – So, I accommodated him. Hey one less motorcycle rider was probably an advantage. — "Good Luck to you, GoldWing rider; riding a motorcycle is a lot like flying; any time you can walk away from a landing, it was a GOOD landing. (You needed a new bike, anyway.) — Get a Can-Am.
Upon departing Albuquerque, rapidly… I cruised past Grants, NM.. and on into Gallup. That was my dilemma… (hear that music?) "Should I stay, or should I go." It was early in the morning… I was 'feeling good / looking good'. Easy to stay in Gallup, nice town… eastern Arizona was just over the horizon… Hell, Winslow is only 50 miles from Flagstaff… bet I could get a room there… speaking of which, Flagstaff is only 300 miles from Lost Wages… Don't you just LOVE how 'rationalization' works?? – "Honey (husband to wife AFTER buying Corvette), I was already in the Chevy dealership, the nice receptionist was so cute and helpful, the car is VERY utilitarian, we can BOTH drive it, Hunny, they made me a great deal."
Just so you know, I really DID pull over in Gallup and have a cup of coffee out of my thermos… think, think, think… Finally, "What the f**k; I'm going to 'Vegas." I spun a wheel when I cranked up and roared out, (thinking: "I bet this is the same way people got on the Titanic")
I roared past Flagstaff (you know, the place where I could probably get a room); whizzed past Williams, Seligman, and finally to Kingman, AZ. I stopped at my favorite gas-place, "Love's"… gassed up, left a specimen, and flew out of Kingman. What you do is go slightly past Kingman and take a right on highway 93 to 'Vegas. It's almost a straight shot.
This black Cadillac had been horsing around with me on the way to Kingman, him passing me, me passing him, that sort of thing. So when I got on the stretch, just past Kingman that leads to the dam, I decided to give him an old-fashioned 'testicle-check', "We're gonna find out if you have any, Cadillac-Jack. I bet you've got more car than you have skill… AND… nerve too. — Guess who won?
Hey, – Cadillac-Jack backed off just before we got to the dam… Musta been too nerve-wracking for him… "Get yourseff a Can-Am, Jack," I said as I bulleted on toward the dam. (People are SO afraid of the Highway Patrol)…
My wife had been watching me on the "tracker" and even ran out to open the gate to our little village when I pulled up.
Safe, sound, tired (exhausted), exhilarated…. "all the above"
692 miles, – what a ride!!
So whad I learn? Right?
#1…America, this amazing place we live… it's under-appreciated. The people, the places, the "good hearts" of most everyone… is incredible.
#2…I kinda ate my way across America, and I had grits / greens / hot-dogs (I LOVE a good, cheap hot dog from "Loves"), fish, seafood, fried biscuits, gravy-covered-chicken, "steak-by-a-lake", with chocolate ice cream for dessert. – I saw a true American hero growing a garden in Alabama; nekkid ladies in New Orleans, another beautiful garden in Mobile… and the most important part: I saw "Friends of a lifetime".
#3…I learned that I've been a VERY lucky guy. — I love you: Rob Coats / Bob Summerlin / Corky "by god" Harris / Jerry 'Bull' Dozier / Cathy Harris (you go win those Senior Olympics, girl!) / Tommy Ellis, (you living legend) / Ted and ClaraSue (hugs to you both) / Jon "B.G." Jeffries, (I'm so proud of you!), and all my NEW buds and GFs I met along the way…
"Salut!" to you all… All of you made my trip a terrific event and an even better memory. – I love you all….
PS – here's my "Tracking-Page" (http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0seJseUF8nps5v94ORZolubfWN1AosNFO)
Santa Rosa, NM
So, I went from Clinton, Oklahoma to Santa Rosa, New Mexico yesterday; – about 350 miles.
I "almost" ran out of gas along the way. Running out of gas is a big deal in a car; running out on a motor-sickle is SERIOUS. Riding a motorcycle is a lot like being homeless. You ride "self-contained", and pack up ALL your gear every day. If you run out of gas in some desolate place; like where I was yesterday ("On The Moon", New Mexico), you're in big trouble.
What are you going to do?… LEAVE your bike (and thus, your valuables) and hike somewhere for some help? Maybe wait for a kind car to stop and give you some 'spare' gas he/she carries (Do YOU carry any spare gas with you in your car? – I sure don't.) Maybe call "triple-AAA" to get them to bring you some gas? — "Hello, is this AAA-Travel?… Well, I'm in 'On the Moon, New Mexico' and need some gas. Where am I actually located you ask? – Uh… let's see… there's some cactus, some sage-brush, and several old abandoned buildings, probably somewhere on old Route 66, I think." You see the problem, Right?
So, what happened was that I made "an error of judgement" on where I SHOULD have gotten gas. "Nah, I'll be fine, I'm SURE there will be an opportunity to get gas 'on down the road'. (Note to self, ALWAYS get gas when you think you need it.) – Man, I rode and rode… nothing. If you've never ridden across desolate parts of New Mexico, try it some time. It's comparable to Death Valley, Nevada.
So, I slow down to about 50, and start 'nursing' my bike along… (My evil foe, the trucks, laughed heartily as they whizzed by) – "I don't care, you evil trucks, Pfffttttt… to you." – FINALLY, I came to the 'Russell' Auto center. It was PACKED with 'planes, trains, and automobiles'. Apparently I wasn't the ONLY one who made an 'error of judgement' on getting gas.
The tank on my bike holds six gallons. I pumped 5.7 gallons in as I thanked the station attendant profusely for placing his facility at such an opportune location. – "I'm not going to make that mistake ever again," I said to myself. (Oddly enough, the LAST TIME I ran out of gas was in New Mexico… I was driving a hot-rod Mustang I had just purchased in North Carolina back to Las Vegas. That thing got 8 miles per gallon.) – "Life's Strange" isn't it??
So, "what's the deal", right? – Ok, here's my plan… I'm going to leave Santo Rosa early this morning, say around 6:00am. Its 686 miles to Las Vegas. I'm going to try to 'drive in'… I don't like heroic rides; and six hundred and eighty six miles sure sounds like one. 'Heroic' rides are dangerous, hectic, painful (to your butt…) and are a COMPLETE 'false-agenda'. Because it makes zero difference at all when I get home, (logically.) — Nevertheless, I'm going to give it a shot. More than likely, I'll bail out along the way… (Which would be the SMART thing to do) – No one's ever accused me of having a high I.Q.
(I've already gassed up, smarty pants)
Stay tuned…
PS – here's my "Tracking-Page" (http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0seJseUF8nps5v94ORZolubfWN1AosNFO)
Clinton, OK…
Ha ha… gotcha…
Not THAT Clinton… Clinton OKLAHOMA, Forrest! Geez… people are so jumpy in the political season. I COULD have stayed in Oklahoma City, you know. BUuuuut… on the off chance that Hillary stays in Clinton when she's not staying in New York I rode an extra 60 miles to see her. She's not here, drat… but Trump was… I even took him for a ride on my motor-sickle. Here's what I told him… "Git yerself a motor-sickle… and then go see 'Merica, there's a lotta nice people out there."
For instance, my license plate came off my bike yesterday. Hey, "who knew?" Right? You checked YOUR license plate lately? So… I'm blasting down the hiway, 'bout, say, 85… I notice this white Dodge Durango coming up fast behind me. I keep an eye on him, and he gets up beside me and waves his hand to get my attention. When I look over, he's 'mouthing': "Pull over" – So, what's the deal, right? — Hell, I don't know, maybe he wants to put me in a modern version of "Easy Rider, WTF?"
Always up for an adventure, (and with a small, loaded pistol in my jacket pocket") – I follow him over to the side of "I-blanking-40" (Interstate… cars and trucks (my evil enemy) passing by) – When we both get stopped, I ease the zipper down on the side-pocket of my jacket (just in case, Bubba) – And he walks over to tell me my licesnse plate has come off my bike several miles back. I thank him profusely…(I mean, I'M not going back to get it, fo sho…) BUT… I DID admire his intention, and told him so; in volumns.
That's what I mean by America being great. We really ARE a great country… From my Seal friend, Bob Summerlin, to an anonymous guy who wanted an anonymous biker to know he had lost his tag… — We Americans frequently help each other out. – "Thank you, Mister Sir, whoever you are… I sincerely appreciate the effort; 'You do man…"
So there you go, Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton… do right by America… and one thing I know for CERTAIN… we'll do right by you. Nuff said.
So… all you weirdos who read my blog want to know about my adventure of almost getting robbed. And my meeting with the Pho-leece, huh… (A serious "thanks" for the response) Okay, ok… I'll tell you.
So… one time, several years ago, I hit the wrong exit on my bike. It was up in St. George, Utah and I wound around trying to get back on the main highway and ended up in… what can best be described as… a very large asphalted area. I guess they were going to build some houses on it, and they put the streets in first. ANywHo… I pull over to a concrete curb (with nothing else there) and get off my bike, open my back 'top-case' to get 'Charles" out… ('Charles' is my road-atlas… "Charles Atlas", get it?? – Ok, maybe not, – google it, if you don't) – So, I'm looking at 'Charles', (with the lid on my top case still open… "ya never know, ya know?)
Out of nowhere this faded blue, older, Chevy Blazer pulls up sort of in front of me, kinda at an angle. Mind you, there is NO ONE around for M-I-L-E-S! – Already, this is unusual, and I look over in my top case, see my pistol in it's holster, and I pull it out, and lay it on top of the holster, 'for easy access' you might say.
So this brotha.. gets part way out of his Blazer and says, "Man, I aint go no money." So, I say, "I've been there, if you aint got the green you've got the blues." We just look at each other. Then, he says, "No really, I'm broke." So I'm thinking, is he just TELLING ME this, or asking for money, OR trying to decide if he's gonna rob me.
So, 'what the heck', I say, "Yeah, I've been broke before myself, know what you mean." We just look at each other. HE SAYS… "Maybe I can just use some of yours." – Again, we stare at each other just a tad bit too long. – (Ok, 'mother-blanker', you want a confrontation, I'm gonna give it to you.)
So, I put my hand in my top case and look him in the eye and say, "Sir… the decision you make in the next eight seconds is going to change your life, big time, — You may 'think' I'm an old, white-headed guy, but God is playing a cruel trick on you; I'm not. — Here's the real deal.– I aint giving you no money, Period."
We just stare at each other… My fingers are just tapping on the side of my pistol… (I hope I don't have to shoot this asshole, I'm thinking) — So, just like that… He says, "Well, I guess I need to get going." He gets all the way back in his Blazer and drives off… *I* go back to 'Charles', and leisurely figure out where the heck I am, (WITH my top case still open) — So, whaddaya think?? – Think he was trying to rob me, or he drove out to a very secluded area to solicit a donation. To be honest, I really AM interested in your opinion. Heck, maybe all I had to do was give him a 'twenty'… tell me what you think.
As to my involvement with the Poh-leece.. On my way going out to Two-pelow (Tupelo, MS.) – I'm sure I was possibly, perhaps, maybe… going a tad bit too fast, for sure. I was off to an exhhilirating trip… rolling thru the hills of Mississippi… when I saw some flashing blue lights coming up behind me. Dang it… I looked down at my speedo, and sure enough.. I "might" have been close to 87, (my favorite cruisin' number.) I figure, if you're not doing 90, you're not speeding, right?
(Hey Ann Biggs, I just saw on the TeeVee that it's "Fleet-week" in New York City… bet you wish you were there.)
So anyway, I back off my "faulty" throttle (preparing for my deefense, don't you know), and pull over to the side, with Mississippi's 'finest' right behind me. So, I take my helmet off, and my earplugs out… turn my loud music down, and get off my bike, (hoping he takes notice of my white hair and (ahem..) 'older' features. – (It helps to know that I always carry poker chips from Las Vegas with me, to give to people who have extended a 'kindness' to me; a special way to thank them, you might say.)
So, this highway patrol trooper walks up and says, "You were going a little fast there, sir… " and I said, (politely)… "What's your name?" (in a VERY friendly tone). Thankfully, he says "Sam". So I said, "Sam, my name's Tom; have you ever been to Las Vegas?" He says, "No, I haven't." – So, I hand him a poker chip from Las Vegas and he just looks at it. "Sam, you know what you can do with that poker chip", I say… (he looks up, expectantly), "You can take it to the roulette table, and if you manage your winnings well, you can make yourself a million bucks."
A big smile spreads across his face, and he laughs… He looks at the poker chip one more time, and asks "Are you really from Las Vegas? I hand him my driver's license, and tell him I am. He looks it over, smiles again at me, and says, "I think I'll just hold on to it." Then, he looks me and my bike over one more time, and says (literally), "You git your ass outta here… and SLOW DOWN!!" I assured him I would. Then I geared up again, and rode off. — "Thank you, Officer Sam… I appreciate the courtesy. I hope you make your fortune in Las Vegas. (You don't think I bribed him, do ya??)
Hey, I'm getting outta here soon… on my way to Amarilla, and on to Albekwerky, New Mexico; 457 miles; gonna blast over there at about 87… — Look out for them coppers, Y'all…
PS – here's my "Tracking-Page" (http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0seJseUF8nps5v94ORZolubfWN1AosNFO)
Conway Arkansas…
Conway Arkansas?? – Yeah… Ya see, Gome… I left Wrens to go to 'Lanna. (Atlanta, that's the way they say it there, OR… "HotLanta" – I prefer 'Lanna.)
I'm telling you the truth when I say that 'Lanna is a traffic MESS. I got stopped just outside of their perimeter-road; and couldn't go anywhere.. ANYwhere… So, I just parked it at a Quality-Inn, and let my bud, Jon Jefferies, come over to see me. HE… lives there, I DON'T. – Get this… even Jon had a hard time getting over to the ol' "Q-I" – But, it was definitely good to see him… He was the last on "the list", — the list of peeps I wanted to see on this trip. — (that's his black Beemer beside my bike)
Jon is a radio hot-rod, a "sports-talk" jock at one of 'Lanna's hot radio stations. He's done well. He USED to be THE NUMBER ONE "Rock 'n Roll' jock at Omaha's legendary KFAB. Seriously, at the time, he was hotter than Las Vegas on July the 4th . But… remember Harry Chapin's song: W.O.L.D.? – Well, Jon too… got old, (if 31 is old) and they kicked him to the curb. But, he recovered well and went on to make a name for hisself in syndicated radio. Mind you, he's still a punk; but people in 'Lanna think he hung the moon. – Aint life great…
I bet you're wondering if I got those damn 'All-the-way-dogs', right?? – NO! – It's one of the few times I've been out-maneuverd by the fates. I had it all figured out. I blasted out of the Quality Inn… roared west on I-20; I was like a pro half-back, runnin' with the football… maneuvering in and out of 'Lanna's traffic… leaving wakes of traffic tie-ups behind me… I'm serious, several times I was 'floor-boarding' my bike past 90.
I got all the way to the downtown-connecter that takes you to The Varsity and that 'mother-blanker' was backed up tighter than a constipated race horse. I actually screeched to a stop over in an illegal parking zone, right in the middle of I-20 West. "Well, 'blank'" I said. "I guess I'm not going to the Varsity.' – (blif / splik / drat / dagnabbit).
So, I recognized my fate, and limped away (almost got run over by a FedEx-truck as I pulled away.) – Depressed, I gave him the finger and roared past him… I'm serious, it was a major defeat not to get those dogs… they're like an Olympic medal… "Who among us, cannot say, "All-the-way-dogs" are not the true mark of a champion?" – Like John Henry, the steam-drill had defeated me, and I limped out of 'Lanna, (at about 87 MPH)
"Homeward Bound", at last. I cheered up as I got closer to Birmingham, (somewhat). There's an actual 'traffic-column' between 'Lanna and Birmingham; the only birght spot was TWO truck 'weigh-stations' that held up my evil foe, "the trucks". I cackled like a mad man, as I sped by them, noticing how many were shaking their fists at me. "We'll get you, 'motorcycleMan'; next time, next time, next time…. It grew fainter and fainter as I sped away in victory.
B'ham was rapidly behind me as I plunded thru Jasper, and on to Tupelo. I was just outside of "Tupes" when I faded, and ducked into Fulton, MS. – Fulton is named after Bishop Fulton J. Sheen of tele-vangical fame. They even have a bronze statue of him, next to highway 78… "touching", if you think about it. – I spent the night at a VERY comfortable DaysInn… arguably one of the best "economy" motel chains in America.
I developed a 'rating model' on motel chains. I call it the "Motel-6" scale. The 'Motel-6' median point is literaly "6"… and everything is either lower than '6' or greater than '6'. For instance, the Quality Inn in 'Lanna was a Motel-6 scale of 8… pretty good, actually. The DaysInn in Fulton was very close to an 8, (I don't like to get too granular.)
I had a fabulous 'truckers-breakfast' at the Huddle-House in Fulton before I split. I blasted out to Fort Smith, ARE-Kansas this morning, with the full intention of making it all the way.
A 'Tampa-like' rain engulfed me just before Conway Arkansas, and I took it as a sign from God that I ought to spread my message there. – The rain was so hard that I literally could not see five feet to either side of me. I had my rain gear on and everything, and I was SOAKED. – I actually 'guessed' there was an exit where I pulled off… and at the top of a rainy / foggy / misty hill there stood a… (wait for it…) a… "Days Inn" (can you hear the music??)
The lady at the front desk greeted me like I was her son… "Come on in heah, boy; you gonna catch your death out thea" – (She had no idea how right she was) – I parked my bike under the canopy, and wondered at the might of simple WATER.
After I checked in, and drug my bags into my room, the front desk momma… said to bring my clothes up to the laundry and she'd dry them for me.
You know, by and large, pretty much at the 90% level, Americans are great people. I've been about 40,000 miles on my various bikes since I turned 66… and I have never had even ONE bad experience. Oops… there was one guy who was gonna try and rob me, one time in St. George, but I explained to him why that was a bad idea… Let me know if you want to hear the story.
Also, I have one OTHER story I've been keeping from you… I don't know, think I should share it? It involves the Poh-lece…
Just so you know, I'm leaving Conway in the morning and going to Oklahoma City, Okalhoma.. I don't know why they have so many redundant cities in Oklahoma… After Ok-City (there, that's better) I'm going to Amarilla… (that's the way they say it); them Texicans…
PS – here's my "Tracking-Page" (http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0seJseUF8nps5v94ORZolubfWN1AosNFO)


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Bespoke vinyl subscription clubs - four of the best
For any DJ and music lovers out there, one of the biggest problems isn't just about the sheer wealth of tracks to dig through, but finding music that others just don't have. Trackhunter works hard to help you dig through the thousands of new releases every month to find the very best dance, alternative, urban and electronic music. Whether that is a digital or vinyl release we work hard helping you discover music to suit your taste using our own software. There are other ways to discover new and cool music of course and an increasingly popular one is the growing number of bespoke record subscription services. This week we thought we would look at a few of them based in the UK and see what they offer in return for your hard earned cash.
Wax & Stamp
Wax & Stamp has already established itself as a quality bespoke record mailout service that has a simple system. For your £28.00 a month you get two records, both of which you won't know what they are until they arrive on your doorstep. So there is a degree of uncertainty to it all, but given they have delivered 25 different pairings of vinyl so far, subscribers must be pleased. One of the things about collecting music these days, especially vinyl is the feeling of having something different, that no one else owns, that is unique to your collection. Wax & Stamp send you one record that they pick and then another selected by a guest, so you might get electronica, jazz, indie, just anything really. Previous selectors have included R&S Label Manager Andy Whittaker, DJ and World Snooker Champion Steve Davis and DJ and writer Bill Brewster. The releases may be a 12 inch or full long player and are all themed with the latest issue 25 focusing on electronica, folk, minimal, and neo classical. So if you fancy taking a punt with some carefully picked vinyl you never know, after a year you may just have 24 of the best records in collection that none of your friends have.
Monthly subscription: £28.00
Trax & Wax
Not to be confused with the above , Trax & Wax has two different price ranged packages depending whether you want two or four records. The packages include new 12 inch singles from reputable distributors including Rush Hour, Clone and Syncrophone Records. For your money you can expect new releases and represses of some of the hottest records in dance music. Unlike some of the other vinyl subscription packages you can refine and select your box of releases and change them from month to month. The six types of packages are: Trax & Wax Box - A mix of house and deep house music Disco Box - Includes disco, nu-disco and edits Old School Box - A classic sound of Chicago, Detroit and New York Nu School Box - A selection of tech house, and techno music Techno Box - A selection of dub, techno and minimal DnB Box - A selection of the latest DnB and jungle releases. Each of the boxes can be explored with previous selections in a Soundcloud playlist so you get a good feel for the kind of music you will get. Whilst each selection also shows what kind of labels Trax & Wax deals with you again give you a good idea of content.
2 Records - £21.90 - £126 for six months
4 Records - £36.90 - £216 for six months
Flying Vinyl
Flying Vinyl has been going since 2015 and has served up several boxes of vinyl goodies since then. The subscription service focuses on underground indie, alternative and rock tracks which they press to lovely 7 inch singles and sent you in a box. All the releases come complete with their own attractive sleeves and have full A and B sides just like the glorious indie music scenes of the 1970s and 80s. At £28 a month it works out at less than £6 a record delivered which it is quite good value for a bespoke vinyl service. Remember it is not uncommon for 7 inch singles to cost double that on Record Store Day. Previous releases have come from The Amazons, Deap Vally, Jaws and The Big Moon to name but a few. So if your tastes are beyond electronic music and you fancy some lovingly curated indie sounds, this might be the package for you.
Monthly Subscription £20
Yearly Subscription £216
Hurd goes a little bit beyond just being a vinyl subscription service as it provides a record and beer subscription. Offering a multitude of options, that all change according to your drinking habits. Hurd is the kind of subscription you will look forward to opening after a hard week at work. Along with their own monthly periodical, this record club is one that captures the new hip industries that focus on the 'craft' that capture the handmade ethos into a monthly digest of words, music and beer. If you are teetotal then fear not as Hurd offers a vinyl only subscription where you get a record and one-ff goodies such as art prints for £9.99.
£23.99 for a variety of beer and cider options along with a colour 7 inch single and one-off goodies
£9.99 for the 7 inch colour vinyl and one-off goodies
There are an increasing number of vinyl subscription services depending on your budget and music tastes. Some focus on singles, some full albums and the even ones that delivers second hand records to your door for those starting out collecting vinyl with such as the Retro Store. Unlike searching on Trackhunter and at your local record shop you may have to put your trust in these services. That said for them to continue and flourish they will have to provide the very best music and service. So if you are after tracks that no one else has in your social circle and a few craft beers to enjoy them with, it might be worth giving a few of them a month's trial to see what all the fuss is about.Discover great digital dance music with Trackhunter
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If you are looking for a friend in travel then I'm your girl. If you are looking for a company who books the masses of people then I am not the right fit. I want to partner with my travel guests in a enjoyable experience getting to know each other and having fun along the travel planning process. I do not charge for my services on vacation packages but do ask if I give you excellent service, return your calls in a timely fashion and treat you like family you will allow me to make your reservations.
Yes my services are complimentary on most travel products because I receive a referral fee from the cruise lines, resorts and tour companies. Pricing should never be an issue because of price matching and our lowest price contracts.
After traveling to California, New York, Washington D.C. Texas and all over Florida and thirty Plus states I sill love my previous home state of Louisiana. Later I found myself in Paris France which is still the center of my love of Europe.
My travel career started with the prestigious and well known Elite Travel inc dba www.elite-trips.com where I teamed up with some of the most known travel experts in the industry. Working side by side with over 75+ years experience and a A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau gives me the ability to give one on one personalized service and include the buying power for incredible value and an award winning customer support team.
I enjoy loyalty, friendship, and long term relationships and I won't treat you like a client if you don't treat me like a sales person. I don't sell anything I custom make life experiences just for you with personal touches which makes your experience with me personal and different. If this is the right fit for you lets chat
If you enjoy someone with flawless attention to detail - I love being organized. I also work fast and efficiently and I have a great memory (and software) to always remember what we discussed and to make sure NOTHING slips through the cracks. I can't stress enough planning travel is a very personal experience and I want us to be great friends in this process- So if you are not looking for a friend in travel and a long term relationship - I may not be the right fit.
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I don't know about where you are at but it's getting cold here in Delaware.
The heat is on and the temperature is truly dropping in the evenings. We have already changed to nice warm blankets, as we both like it when we are warm. Coming from a tropical climate I really could do without those really cold days and nights when the temperature drops below thirty. Actually I have a problem when it drops below fifty and so does my wife Nelly. Sorry but we like it warm!
The only things we like about fall & winter are the holidays. That being said the best Christmas holidays we have had were when we were in Puerto Rico for the holidays.
Christmas in Puerto Rico is a non stop celebration all the way to January 06 "Dia de los Reyes" (Three kings Day). Jan. 06 marks the end of the Christmas holiday season in Puerto Rico. Just like in the main land USA the holiday starts with thanksgiving celebration. Some households due opt for the traditional Turkey dinner but it goes beyond the turkey to baked picnic hams (Pernil or pork ham) to pasteles (Puerto Rican savory cakes in banana leaves), arroz con gandules (Rice with Pigeon peas). The food is all to die for and the best part of any holidays anywhere!
So why are we talking holiday, foods and Puerto Rico? Because! It's the best time of year to visit Puerto Rico. The weather is great; the natives are in celebration mode and willing to share. You could never go to a Puerto Rican household during the holidays and refuse a meal; they are just not going to have it. They will start offering you different things as they bring it to the table and before you know it the music is playing and you are sitting in front of a feast fit for a king. NO! Is not an acceptable response to an offer to dine in any Puerto Rican household.
I recall when I lived there and was working and took the bus to work, kids singing Christmas songs on the bus every day. No matter where you went the holiday music was playing and everyone was in a festive mode and there was always plenty to eat and drink.
If you have never spent a Christmas in Puerto Rico my advice to you is that as soon as you finish reading this go book a two or three week trip and really have a holiday trip to remember. Leave the diet vocabulary back at home or make a new year's resolution that you will definitely start eating health when you get back. But definitely bring your appetite!
For vacation accommodations in Dorado Puerto Rico look to Villas de Costa Mar beachfront vacation rentals for clean, safe secure accommodations.
FELICIDADES Y PROSPERO AÑO NUEVO, Happy Holidays & a Prosperous New Year!