Moorings - The Best Sailing In The World!
The Moorings is a well-known Caribbean charter, but has some boats in the Pacific NW. This Beneteau seems to have a great floorplan.
Here is the Moorings site on the Pacific Northwest destination.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Possible San Juan Charter
Anacortes Yacht Charters - Pacific Northwest Charters - Bareboat Power and Sail
Anacortes has up to 51' sailboats, which sleep up to 10 - bareboat charter.
Anacortes has up to 51' sailboats, which sleep up to 10 - bareboat charter.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Mortgage demand rises as rates fall, refinancing surges - USATODAY.com
Mortgage demand rises as rates fall, refinancing surges - USATODAY.com
NEW YORK — Mortgage applications rose sharply last week, as the lowest interest rates in more than a year prompted a surge in demand for refinancing, an industry trade group said Wednesday.The Mortgage Bankers Association said its seasonally adjusted index of mortgage application activity, including refinancing and home-purchase loans, rose 8.1% to 647.6 the week ended Dec. 1 from the previous week's 599.
Borrowing costs on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages, excluding fees, averaged 5.98%, down 0.15 percentage point from the previous week, lowest since the week ended Oct. 7, 2005, when it stood at the same level. Interest rates were also below year-ago levels of 6.32%.
Dean Maki, chief U.S. economist at Barclays Capital in New York, said the mortgage bankers' indexes tend to be volatile but lower rates have enticed consumers, which will benefit the U.S. housing market.
"The decline in mortgage rates and the slowing in home price appreciation, along with the buildup in inventories, has led to a much better situation for home buyers through increased affordability as well as more inventory to choose from," he said. "Households are saying on surveys that home buying conditions have improved notably, and that has coincided with the stabilization in home sales."
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Red Auerbach, RIP
by Roland Lazenby: The Eulogies Are Nice, But Red Was Far From Loved And He Liked It That Way
Best of all the tributes written about Red Auerbach.
Best of all the tributes written about Red Auerbach.
At Auerbach's retirement dinner, Russell addressed the gathering: "When I took this job, somebody said, 'What did you take it for? You have nothing to gain. You got to follow Red Auerbach.'
"I don't think I'm going to be another Red Auerbach," Russell continued, then turned to his former coach. "Personally, I think you're the greatest basketball coach that ever lived. You know, over the years... I heard a lot of coaches and writers say the only thing that made you a great coach was Bill Russell. It helped. But that's not what did it.
"Now this is kind of embarrassing, but I'll go so far, Red, as to say this: I like you. And I'll admit there aren't very many men that I like. But you I do. For a number of reasons. First of all, I've always been able to respect you. I don't think you're a genius, just an extraordinarily intelligent man. We'll be friends until one of us dies. And I don't want too many friends, Red."
Cruising Around Charlotte Harbor
Cruising Around Charlotte Harbor
Nice article titled Gunkholing the barrier islands off Florida's West Coast by Doran Cushing includes this passage:
Cruising in Southwest Florida offers sailors the best of both worlds, coastal cruising and open sailing in the Gulf. There are lots of anchorages along the Intracoastal Waterway, protected by the chain of barrier islands that guard the mainland of Florida from Everglades north to Tarpon Springs. Two cruising guides are Claiborne Young's Cruising Guide to Western Florida and Tom Lenfestey's A Cruising Guide to Florida's West Coast. Another invaluable reference is A Guide to Anchorages in Southwest Florida, published by Boaters' Action and Information League, Inc, which provides aerial views and details on the approach route.
This sweet stretch of Southwest Florida features freshwater rivers that converge with the Gulf of Mexico, forming a 270-square-mile horn of plenty. Throw in 219 miles of natural shoreline, barrier islands and mangrove forests, and Charlotte Harbor shines brightly as an aquatic paradise.We will be keeping Pelican at Burnt Store Marina
Nice article titled Gunkholing the barrier islands off Florida's West Coast by Doran Cushing includes this passage:
The menu was simple enough: gather some friends and work associates for a mid-December cruise from Charlotte Harbor to the protected waters along the Intracoastal Waterway to the south. Our starting point was the Burnt Store Marina and Country Club, home of the Southwest Florida Yachts sailing fleet. The modern, full-service marina is tucked deep inside the gated community and provides immediate access to Charlotte Harbor and easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway, coastal West Florida, and the Gulf of Mexico.
It would be hard to imagine a more boater-friendly starting point with so many destination options within three hours sailing time from the marina docks. By land,the resort is situated in an undeveloped rural area 30 minutes south of Punta Gorda. When I queried cruising guide author Claiborne Young about the region, his answer was unqualified: "If I had to pick only one portion of the Western Florida coastline to cruise, it would be the Charlotte Harbor-Pine Island Sound region. You could spend months and not exhaust all them any varied cruising possibilities."
Cruising in Southwest Florida offers sailors the best of both worlds, coastal cruising and open sailing in the Gulf. There are lots of anchorages along the Intracoastal Waterway, protected by the chain of barrier islands that guard the mainland of Florida from Everglades north to Tarpon Springs. Two cruising guides are Claiborne Young's Cruising Guide to Western Florida and Tom Lenfestey's A Cruising Guide to Florida's West Coast. Another invaluable reference is A Guide to Anchorages in Southwest Florida, published by Boaters' Action and Information League, Inc, which provides aerial views and details on the approach route.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Baby Name Finder
Baby Name Finder - Betsy: "Betsy, a 2-syllable girl's name of Hebrew/Anglo-Saxon origin, means: Gods oath."
David, a 2-syllable boy's name of Hebrew origin, means: Beloved one.
Eric, a 2-syllable boy's name of Germanic/Norse origin, means: Ever-kingly; powerful ruler.
David, a 2-syllable boy's name of Hebrew origin, means: Beloved one.
Eric, a 2-syllable boy's name of Germanic/Norse origin, means: Ever-kingly; powerful ruler.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Monday, October 02, 2006
Rosanne Cash Tour Dates
Black Cadillac Tour Dates:
February 23 Sarasota, FL Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
February 24 Tallahassee, FL Florida State University
February 25 Jacksonville, FL Florida Theater
February 23 Sarasota, FL Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
February 24 Tallahassee, FL Florida State University
February 25 Jacksonville, FL Florida Theater
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Aptitude Quiz
Born to Search and Rescue?
This is a 14 question quiz on aptitude/personality traits. (Hoover makes a good family pet)
This is a 14 question quiz on aptitude/personality traits. (Hoover makes a good family pet)
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Maize Maze
Here's a maze just north of Jacksonville. There was one in Zellwood last year we can try to find as well.
Conner's A-Maize-ing Acres | Admission Information
Conner's A-Maize-ing Acres | Admission Information
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
San Diego Pictures
Picasa Web Albums
Updated the web album of our San Diego trip. We managed to do at least one activity every day.
Saturday: Said goodbye to the dog and left for airport at 5:00 AM, landed at LAX at 9:30AM. Visited Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley. This was a highlight of the trip. Drove through Santa Monica mountains and down the coast. When it says 15 MPH they mean 15 MPH! Stopped at Malibu to dip our toes in the Pacific. Dropped by our first house in Stanton, Spent the night in Buena Park.
Sunday: Had a huge breakfast at Po-Folks. Visited Knott's Berry Farm. Rode a lot of coasters, saw a few gunfights and ate at Mrs. Knott's Chicken Ranch. Walked back to hotel and crashed.
Monday: After another huge breakfast at Po-Folks drove to Palm Springs where it was a mild 101 degrees (vs. predicted 112). Took Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to 8615 feet above the desert. 71 degrees on top. Took 1.5 mile nature trail walk. Left Palm Springs and took the scenic route 74 through the San Jacinto Mountains to Carlsbad. When it says 15 MPH they mean 15 MPH!
Tuesday: drove to the Carlsbad beach area before Legoland opened. It is very pretty. Spent the day at Legoland doing Lego things. Then drove to San Diego. Had dinner at El Pollo Loco, and old favorite of David & Betsy. You can't go back.
Wednesday: Went to Seaport Village for breakfast with a view. Visited the Midway aircraft carrier museum. Very impressive. Watched the America's Cup champion Stars & Stripes sail in the bay from on top of the carrier. Later Betsy & Eric took the amphibious Seal Tour and David drove around looking at all the sailboat marinas at Point Loma and Shelter Island. Wednesday night we drove through Coronado Beach and had dinner on the water.
Thursday: went to Balboa Park and visited the Photographic & Science Museums. That night we went to Old Town for an authentic Mexican meal.
Friday: Said goodbye to San Diego and drove to Yorba Linda to the Nixon Library. On the way we stopped at several favorite furniture stores. You can't go back. Nixon Library was great. Had chili hamburgers for dinner from Tommy's. They were as good as I remembered! Drove LAX to stay near the airport.
Saturday: flew home. The dog missed us.
Updated the web album of our San Diego trip. We managed to do at least one activity every day.
Saturday: Said goodbye to the dog and left for airport at 5:00 AM, landed at LAX at 9:30AM. Visited Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley. This was a highlight of the trip. Drove through Santa Monica mountains and down the coast. When it says 15 MPH they mean 15 MPH! Stopped at Malibu to dip our toes in the Pacific. Dropped by our first house in Stanton, Spent the night in Buena Park.
Sunday: Had a huge breakfast at Po-Folks. Visited Knott's Berry Farm. Rode a lot of coasters, saw a few gunfights and ate at Mrs. Knott's Chicken Ranch. Walked back to hotel and crashed.
Monday: After another huge breakfast at Po-Folks drove to Palm Springs where it was a mild 101 degrees (vs. predicted 112). Took Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to 8615 feet above the desert. 71 degrees on top. Took 1.5 mile nature trail walk. Left Palm Springs and took the scenic route 74 through the San Jacinto Mountains to Carlsbad. When it says 15 MPH they mean 15 MPH!
Tuesday: drove to the Carlsbad beach area before Legoland opened. It is very pretty. Spent the day at Legoland doing Lego things. Then drove to San Diego. Had dinner at El Pollo Loco, and old favorite of David & Betsy. You can't go back.
Wednesday: Went to Seaport Village for breakfast with a view. Visited the Midway aircraft carrier museum. Very impressive. Watched the America's Cup champion Stars & Stripes sail in the bay from on top of the carrier. Later Betsy & Eric took the amphibious Seal Tour and David drove around looking at all the sailboat marinas at Point Loma and Shelter Island. Wednesday night we drove through Coronado Beach and had dinner on the water.
Thursday: went to Balboa Park and visited the Photographic & Science Museums. That night we went to Old Town for an authentic Mexican meal.
Friday: Said goodbye to San Diego and drove to Yorba Linda to the Nixon Library. On the way we stopped at several favorite furniture stores. You can't go back. Nixon Library was great. Had chili hamburgers for dinner from Tommy's. They were as good as I remembered! Drove LAX to stay near the airport.
Saturday: flew home. The dog missed us.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
San Diego
San Diego Trip Photos
We are having a wonderful time. Links to photos are above. We landed Saturday morning and drove to Simi Valley to the Reagan Library. What a beautiful place. Besides the museum his library includes the Air Force One pavillion. Reagan set the record for miles flown as president. While he was in office he came up with the idea of creating the pavillion at his library so his fellow Americans could see what Air Force One was like. His friend T. Boone Pickens picked up the $35 million tab.
The Reagan Library was a great way to start the trip. We then cut through the Santa Monica Mountains on a pretty scary drive to get out to the Pac Coast Highway. Followed that to Buena Park where we spent two nights.
Sunday we went to Knott's Berry Farm. KBF is the first theme park in America. We had a lot of fun on the roller coasters and shows and were worn out by the end of the day.
Today we woke up and drove out to Palm Springs. Right outside Palm Springs is the Tramway to the San Jacinto Mountains. It really is a lot of fun. The trails on top are pretty well groomed, but do include some pretty steep inclines. Today the temperature was 30 degrees cooler on top of the mountain.
After four hours at the top we drove to Carlsbad through the San Bernadino mountains. As we drove we climbed up to 5,000 feet before working our way down to sea level at the coast.
Tomorrow Legoland, then down to San Diego.
We are having a wonderful time. Links to photos are above. We landed Saturday morning and drove to Simi Valley to the Reagan Library. What a beautiful place. Besides the museum his library includes the Air Force One pavillion. Reagan set the record for miles flown as president. While he was in office he came up with the idea of creating the pavillion at his library so his fellow Americans could see what Air Force One was like. His friend T. Boone Pickens picked up the $35 million tab.
The Reagan Library was a great way to start the trip. We then cut through the Santa Monica Mountains on a pretty scary drive to get out to the Pac Coast Highway. Followed that to Buena Park where we spent two nights.
Sunday we went to Knott's Berry Farm. KBF is the first theme park in America. We had a lot of fun on the roller coasters and shows and were worn out by the end of the day.
Today we woke up and drove out to Palm Springs. Right outside Palm Springs is the Tramway to the San Jacinto Mountains. It really is a lot of fun. The trails on top are pretty well groomed, but do include some pretty steep inclines. Today the temperature was 30 degrees cooler on top of the mountain.
After four hours at the top we drove to Carlsbad through the San Bernadino mountains. As we drove we climbed up to 5,000 feet before working our way down to sea level at the coast.
Tomorrow Legoland, then down to San Diego.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Google Guide Quick Reference: Google Advanced Operators (Cheat Sheet)
Google Guide Quick Reference: Google Advanced Operators (Cheat Sheet)
Bookmark the above page to learn more about the power of Google and the Google toolbar. Need a residential white pages listing? Try googling
phonebook: lundeen, st. pete beach, fl
or for a business:
bphonebook: davis island yacht club, tampa fl
Bookmark the above page to learn more about the power of Google and the Google toolbar. Need a residential white pages listing? Try googling
phonebook: lundeen, st. pete beach, fl
or for a business:
bphonebook: davis island yacht club, tampa fl
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Tools To Bulletproof Firefox
Tools To Bulletproof Firefox: Here is a list of important add-ins to make Firefox safer:
NoScript: https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/722/
SiteAdvisor: http://www.siteadvisor.com/download/ff.html
Netcraft Toolbar: http://toolbar.netcraft.com/install
Google Safe Browsing: http://www.google.com/tools/firefox/safebrowsing/
Clear Private Data: https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1280/
Password Maker: https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/469/
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Katrina people, Katrina dogs
Tampabay: Family pleads to reclaim pets
St. Pete Times attempts to write a tear jerker of a story about a couple from New Orleans in the area trying to get their dogs back after they were adopted out after Katrina. Only problem is, the kept their dogs outside, they were heartworm positive, the were "treating the heartworm with monthly medication" and they brought their grandkids with them to use as props to create a human interest story.
The good news is, the new owners aren't giving them back and there is nothing the old owners can do. The poll of readers is running 2:1 against giving the dogs back.
St. Pete Times attempts to write a tear jerker of a story about a couple from New Orleans in the area trying to get their dogs back after they were adopted out after Katrina. Only problem is, the kept their dogs outside, they were heartworm positive, the were "treating the heartworm with monthly medication" and they brought their grandkids with them to use as props to create a human interest story.
The good news is, the new owners aren't giving them back and there is nothing the old owners can do. The poll of readers is running 2:1 against giving the dogs back.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Garmin: StreetPilot c320 Firmware updates
Changes made from version 5.10 to 5.20:
* Improved route calculations with car pool lanes.
Changes made from version 4.80 to 5.10:
* Added via point support (After selecting Final Destination, select Via point from Where To? menu just like you would your Final Destination. Unit will prompt you if you wish to continue on to your Final Destination by way of your Via point. Select Yes).
* Improved address searches to allow for selecting which map to search on when multiple maps are available.
* Corrected a bug where the user could get stuck in the address search pages.
* Corrected a bug where some address searches would give back invalid results.
* Added ability to save waypoints from the Browse Map page.
* Improved city searches to search across all available maps.
* Improved the timing of voice guidance prompts.
* Added WebUpdater support for Voice Guidance updates.
* Corrected a bug where navigating on a roundabout could cause the unit to lock up."
* Improved route calculations with car pool lanes.
Changes made from version 4.80 to 5.10:
* Added via point support (After selecting Final Destination, select Via point from Where To? menu just like you would your Final Destination. Unit will prompt you if you wish to continue on to your Final Destination by way of your Via point. Select Yes).
* Improved address searches to allow for selecting which map to search on when multiple maps are available.
* Corrected a bug where the user could get stuck in the address search pages.
* Corrected a bug where some address searches would give back invalid results.
* Added ability to save waypoints from the Browse Map page.
* Improved city searches to search across all available maps.
* Improved the timing of voice guidance prompts.
* Added WebUpdater support for Voice Guidance updates.
* Corrected a bug where navigating on a roundabout could cause the unit to lock up."
Windshield Mount Law
Windshield Mount Law: "NOTICE TO DRIVERS IN CALIFORNIA AND MINNESOTA: State law prohibits drivers in California and Minnesota from using suction mounts on their windshields while operating motor vehicles. Other Garmin dashboard or friction mounting options should be used. Garmin does not take any responsibility for any fines, penalties, or damages that may be incurred as a result of disregarding this notice. (See California Vehicle Code Section 26708(a); Minnesota Statutes 2005, Section 169.71)"
Monday, June 26, 2006
The Story of the Clearwater Beach Monster
Floridian: Man, not beast:
"The mysterious tracks spotted on Clearwater Beach in the late '40s caused quite a stir. Were they left by a monster? A giant penguin? The answer eluded everyone. Well, almost everyone."
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Eric performed in a concert today marking the end of summer band camp at Florida Southern University. Everyone was very impressive. Eric led off the concert with a snare roll intro to the Star Spangled Banner. Later he moved in front of the band to perform "Mallet Maniacs."
click on image for larger picture
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Monday, June 19, 2006
Photos Now Online
David's Picasa Web Albums
Google has updated Picasa for the first time in over a year with the beta (or test) release of Picasa Web Albums. With it they give you 250MB of free space, or for $25 a year they give you a full 6GB of space to use for over 25,000 photos online.
Right now it is invitation only. I received one today and uploaded a few albums to it including Jane's 75th birthday party, a few shots from Bermuda and some Pelican shots.
Google has updated Picasa for the first time in over a year with the beta (or test) release of Picasa Web Albums. With it they give you 250MB of free space, or for $25 a year they give you a full 6GB of space to use for over 25,000 photos online.
Right now it is invitation only. I received one today and uploaded a few albums to it including Jane's 75th birthday party, a few shots from Bermuda and some Pelican shots.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Monday, June 05, 2006
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Router Project
Router Project
This page describes how setup a wireless bridge and router to grab internet access from stray wireless waves polluting your property!
Parts needed: Linksys WET54g, Linksys WRT54G, Power injector system for Linksys WET54g.
This page describes how setup a wireless bridge and router to grab internet access from stray wireless waves polluting your property!
Parts needed: Linksys WET54g, Linksys WRT54G, Power injector system for Linksys WET54g.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Florida Bicycle Association
Home Page
Better Bicycling Means a Better Florida
New Bike Trails Brochure Available
FBA, Office of Greenways, Trails and VISIT FLORIDA have collaborated with other trail organizations to produce the new Florida Bicycle Trails brochure. The new brochure provides a guide to Florida's top paved and off-road bike trails. To obtain a copy of the brochure click on the above link, call 1-877-822-5208, or email Julie Roberts, Julie.N.Roberts@dep.state.fl.us.
Better Bicycling Means a Better Florida
New Bike Trails Brochure Available
FBA, Office of Greenways, Trails and VISIT FLORIDA have collaborated with other trail organizations to produce the new Florida Bicycle Trails brochure. The new brochure provides a guide to Florida's top paved and off-road bike trails. To obtain a copy of the brochure click on the above link, call 1-877-822-5208, or email Julie Roberts, Julie.N.Roberts@dep.state.fl.us.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Monday, May 29, 2006
Wireless on Abaco - The FAQ
Abaco's Community Message Board - View Single Post - Wireless on Abaco - The FAQ
More information on setting up long range WiFi on board
More information on setting up long range WiFi on board
WiFi on Board
Panbo's Marine Electronics & Communications Weblog: Om Sweet Om, with WiFi
With the 9dBi antenna I have been able to connect to base stations with a clear line of sight up to about 1 mile from the boat. We used it extensively in the Abacos over a two month period roaming from Green Turtle to Little Harbor without ever being without a usable signal. I didn't go with a higher gain antenna as this one suited my needs, but the range can be increased to 5 or 6 miles using a 15dBi standard antenna and even more using amplification.
Motorhome Wireless System
¤RadioLabs || WaveRV - Motorhome Wireless System
The WaveRV is not only the best solution, but also the simplest and most economical to connect. How do we make this so easy? Our powerful wireless board, combined with an external 360 degree antenna can expand the connection of your RV, motorhome or camping location up to 30 times the current range of your notebook. Imagine taking a powerful antenna and wireless card combination and putting it 12 feet in the air, trying to locate any wireless connections in the area. This is what RadioLabs' WaveRV is all about.
The high-gain vertical antenna, with built-in wireless card is an excellent combination of form and function. We designed this on our CNC machine and each antenna adapter is made by hand in Northern California!
Antenna comes with a 5' USB cable and an additional 15' USB extension cable for up to 20' of extension outside of your RV.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Chicago might require microchip IDs for dogs
City might require microchip IDs for dogs
Owners of Chicago's estimated 600,000 dogs would be required to microchip their pets, limit tethering, pay stiff fines for letting them roam free and choose between neutering and sharply higher license fees, under a sweeping crackdown proposed by an influential alderman.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Monday, May 15, 2006
Bermuda : Active Pursuits : Snorkeling | Frommers.com
Bermuda : Active Pursuits : Snorkeling | Frommers.com
Bermuda is known for the gin-clear purity of its waters and for its vast array of coral reefs. If you're ready to explore, all you need is a snorkel, mask, and fins -- if you can swim, you can snorkel. A handful of companies can help you; otherwise, you can hit the water on your own.The best places to go snorkeling are public beaches. Many hotels that are right on the beach will lend or rent you fins, masks, and snorkels, and will advise you of the best sites in your area. You almost never have to travel far.
Die-hard snorkelers, some of whom visit Bermuda every year, prefer Church Bay above all other snorkeling spots on Bermuda. It lies on the south shore, west of the Fairmont Southampton Golf Club and Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. The little cove, which seems to be waiting for a movie camera, is carved out of coral cliffs. It's well protected and filled with snug little nooks. Another advantage is that the reefs are fairly close to land. However, the seas can be rough (as is true anywhere in Bermuda), so we always advise caution.
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Great Site for Eric
Printable Maps - Reference
nationalatlas.gov provides a host of printable maps in .pdf format. Need to keep this site in mind for school projects.
nationalatlas.gov provides a host of printable maps in .pdf format. Need to keep this site in mind for school projects.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Florida Folk Festival
Google Maps - 5417 cedar pine court orlando fl to white springs, fl
175 miles door to door 165 highway, about 2.5 hours travel time.
There are plenty of hotel rooms around $60 in Lake City, about 14 miles south of the Park.
We can pack picnic basket for lunch and dinner and drive up Saturday morning arriving around noon. Stay through Rosanne Cash then spend the night in Lake City.
We could bring our snorkel gear and hit a spring such as Ginnie Springs or Blue Springs or something around the High Springs area.
175 miles door to door 165 highway, about 2.5 hours travel time.
There are plenty of hotel rooms around $60 in Lake City, about 14 miles south of the Park.
We can pack picnic basket for lunch and dinner and drive up Saturday morning arriving around noon. Stay through Rosanne Cash then spend the night in Lake City.
We could bring our snorkel gear and hit a spring such as Ginnie Springs or Blue Springs or something around the High Springs area.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Bermuda Info
An informative website, with good info, linked to and by The Royal Gazette, Bermuda's only daily newspaper.
Bermuda Online in 120+ comprehensive websites
Bermuda Online in 120+ comprehensive websites
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Friday, April 28, 2006
It's Bermuda!
We have booked our 20th anniversary trip to Bermuda.
Thanks to American Express Rewards points and Delta Skymiles it will be cheap!
We are staying at the lovely Fairmont Hamiltion Princess hotel. While there we intend to snorkel, scuba, take a glass bottom boat ride and head to the Beach Club a time or two.
We last went to Bermuda in 1985 and are looking forward to our return visit.
Thanks to American Express Rewards points and Delta Skymiles it will be cheap!
We are staying at the lovely Fairmont Hamiltion Princess hotel. While there we intend to snorkel, scuba, take a glass bottom boat ride and head to the Beach Club a time or two.
We last went to Bermuda in 1985 and are looking forward to our return visit.
Top Ten Caribbean Dive Sites, Carribean, Carribbean, Best Diving
Top Ten Caribbean Dive Sites, Carribean, Carribbean, Best Diving
TCI Diving is based in the Turks & Caicos, but lists their favorites throughout the Caribbean. The Caymans, Cozumel and BVI are recurring destinations in many lists.
TCI Diving is based in the Turks & Caicos, but lists their favorites throughout the Caribbean. The Caymans, Cozumel and BVI are recurring destinations in many lists.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Crunching The Numbers On Alternative Fuels
Popular Mechanics - Crunching The Numbers On Alternative Fuels
Rising oil prices are leading skeptics to take another look at formerly ignored alternative automotive fuels. Ethanol is getting the most attention--but interest is growing in methanol and even leftover french fry oil for use in diesel engines. In addition to these biofuels, research continues into electricity and natural gas as vehicle power sources. Department of Energy (DOE) policy calls for eventually making a transition to a hydrogen-based economy. And President Bush has recently stated that he wants hydrogen-powered cars on the market by 2020.
Windows Security
After fighting with Norton Internet Security for a few years I'm giving up and starting to experiment. Norton is simply a piece of crap -- it hogs way too many resources and slows down the computer. On top of that, Betsy's annual subscription keeps coming up asking to be renewed every 60 days which is about ten months short of my calendar year. So here is what I'm going to try:
AVG Anti Virus Free Edition
Kerio Firewall which is also free in a limited capacity
Microsoft Defender Beta 2 which replaces Microsoft Anti Spyware Beta 1
AVG Anti Virus Free Edition
Kerio Firewall which is also free in a limited capacity
Microsoft Defender Beta 2 which replaces Microsoft Anti Spyware Beta 1
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Torpedo Away
ENEMY WEAPON: Russian VA-111 Shkval
Good read on U.S. sub capabilities and the real vs. perceived threat of the new Iranian super torpedo.
Good read on U.S. sub capabilities and the real vs. perceived threat of the new Iranian super torpedo.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
AlGore Out to Save the World
New York Daily News - News & Views Columnists - Richard Cohen: Gore movie puts heat on Bush
Richard Cohen, who has a high school education and later attended three different colleges has this to say about GW:
Richard Cohen, who has a high school education and later attended three different colleges has this to say about GW:
Bush has been studiously anti-science, a man of applied ignorance who has undernourished his mind with the empty calories of comfy dogma. For instance, his insistence on abstinence as the preferred method of birth control would be laughable were it not so reckless.Whereas, in his unbiased opionion he says about AlGore:
Wherever he goes, he finds time and an audience to deliver his (free) lecture on global warming. It and the film leave no doubt of the peril we face and neither do they leave any doubt that Gore, at last, is a man at home in his role. He is master teacher, pedagogue, know-it-all, smarter than most of us,Speak for yourself, please, Mr. Cohen. Yawn. How boring.
Monday, April 17, 2006
PADI Openwater SCUBA Cert
Certification course at a nice resort - classes Mon - Thurs.
Divi Tiara Beach Resort Cayman Brac Activities
Divi Tiara Beach Resort Cayman Brac Activities
Life in the Green Lane
Life in the Green Lane - New York Times
The car that started the hybrid craze, the Toyota Prius, is lauded for squeezing 40 or more miles out of a gallon of gas, and it really can. But only when it's being driven around town, where its electric motor does its best and most active work. On a cross-country excursion in a Prius, the staff of Automobile Magazine discovered mileage plummeted on the Interstate. In fact, the car's computer, which controls the engine and the motor, allowing them to run together or separately, was programmed to direct the Prius to spend most of its highway time running on gasoline because at higher speeds the batteries quickly get exhausted. Indeed, the gasoline engine worked so hard that we calculated we might have used less fuel on our journey if we had been driving Toyota's conventionally powered, similarly sized Corolla — which costs thousands less. For the owner who does the majority of her driving on the highway, the Prius's potential for fuel economy will never be realized and its price premium never recovered.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Low Key Watersports and SCUBA Dive Center, U.S.Virgin Islands (USVI)
Low Key Watersports and SCUBA Dive Center, U.S.Virgin Islands (USVI)
Advice from Steve is Low Key in U.S. Virgin Islands is a good diving paradise with good lessons. Here is the first link I came across.
Advice from Steve is Low Key in U.S. Virgin Islands is a good diving paradise with good lessons. Here is the first link I came across.
Why We Fear the Canadians
Damn Interesting » America's Secret Plan to Invade Canada:
Some things apparently never change. Minneapolis and Seattle probably would have surrendered, but I'm pretty sure Great Falls and Albany would have driven the Canadian "Army" back to the border.
"As for the Canadians, they had their own plan outlining the invasion of the United States. Developed in 1921, it was called 'Defense Scheme Number One,' and it called for Canadian soldiers to march on Albany, Minneapolis, Seattle and Great Falls, Montana. They were well aware that they lacked the military strength to defeat the U.S., so the thrust of the plan was to buy time for the British to arrive and help their commonwealth ally.Who ever thought AAA would be complicit in the overthrow of the U.S.?
The department in Canada responsible for war planning had an annual budget of just $1,200. During the clandestine information-gathering for Defense Scheme Number One, staff members of the department actually entered the United States to take photographs and to procure free maps at gas stations."
Some things apparently never change. Minneapolis and Seattle probably would have surrendered, but I'm pretty sure Great Falls and Albany would have driven the Canadian "Army" back to the border.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Welcome to Google Calendar
Welcome to Google Calendar
Google Calendar is up and running. I set up accounts for everyone and we can see each others calendars from any website access.
Google Calendar is up and running. I set up accounts for everyone and we can see each others calendars from any website access.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Firefox Tweaks, Extensions and Optimizations
Firefox Tweaks, Extensions and Optimizations at Gomeler.com
Nice set of instructions for increasing speeds and reducing memory leaks from within Firefox.
Also has links to a few nice extensions related to using tabs.
Nice set of instructions for increasing speeds and reducing memory leaks from within Firefox.
Also has links to a few nice extensions related to using tabs.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Dog and Kennel Magazine Labrador Retriever Breed Profile
Dog and Kennel Magazine Labrador Retriever Breed Profile:
"Epilepsy in dogs is characterized by seizures. If they are short and infrequent, a dog may not need anticonvulsant medication. If the seizures are more severe, a dog is a candidate for a lifetime supply of phenobarbital, Valium or some other drug used to prevent seizures.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is the wasting away of the vessels in the retina. Initially manifested as night blindness in young dogs, as PRA progresses, its victims become totally blind."
Seizures in Dogs & Cats: An Integrative Approach with Natural Options
Seizures in Dogs & Cats: An Integrative Approach with Natural Options:
"Dr. Roger Clemmons at the University of Florida veterinary school suggests that interceptor and filaribits appear to be safer heart worm preventatives for dogs that are prone to seizures. He also feels that Frontline may be a safer flea and tick repellant for seizure prone dogs."
Last minute diversion takes Mars rover to safety
New Scientist SPACE - Breaking News - Last minute diversion takes Mars rover to safety
Spirit has to be more careful about the terrain it tackles than in the past, thanks to a non-functioning right front wheel. The motor that rotates the wheel stopped working in mid-March, so the rover has been driving backwards, dragging the wheel behind it.
Spirit reached Low Ridge Haven over the weekend and as a result, the rover's power supply has been bumped up by as much as 20%, Squyres says. Science observations are just getting underway at the new site, but he says there are some "wonderful, finely-layered bedrock outcrops" there and it is likely the rover will remain there for the entire winter science campaign.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Mercedes GL is too big, too bad - Orlando Sentinel : Cars
Dan Neill thinks owning an SUV is morally retrograde (whatever that may mean) and that it's a bad thing for a corporation to make money. HUH?
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
01:02:03 04/05/06
On Wednesday of this week, at two minutes and three seconds after 1:00 in the morning, the time and date will be:
01:02:03 04/05/06.
That won't ever happen again
01:02:03 04/05/06.
That won't ever happen again
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Monday, March 06, 2006
Roaming Hack
Roaming Hack
explains how to get out of your cellular contract by getting your carrier to cancel your contract.
explains how to get out of your cellular contract by getting your carrier to cancel your contract.
Friday, February 24, 2006
And Another Superior!
Eric was entered into two pieces and played in front of two different judges. Both were very impressed by his performance, especially since he is in 6th grade.He played beautifully on the Marimba, performing a great rendition of Beethoven's Turkish March with piano accompianment.
Tonight also marked the first time Eric has worn a tie and dress shoes...
Superior!
Eric entered two pieces into the "Solo & Ensemble" competition sponsored by the Florida Band Association Friday night.His drum piece was graded "Superior!" which is the top grade.
Eric was one of only a few 6th graders to enter the competition.
Friday, February 17, 2006
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Black Cadillac Tour Dates
Rosanne Cash is playing the Florida Folk Festival in White Springs, FL on May 27. That would make it worth going to this year.
Black Cadillac Tour Dates
Black Cadillac Tour Dates
Monday, January 30, 2006
Friday, January 13, 2006
Monday, January 09, 2006
Friday, January 06, 2006
Priorities: Find dogsitter, leave kids home alone.
The Courier-Mail: Holiday couple abandon kids - but not pets [06jan06]
A HUSBAND and wife who found a dog sitter for their puppies, but left their nine-year-old son home to care for his younger autistic brother while they celebrated the new year in Las Vegas, have been arrested.
Jacob Calero and his wife Michelle De La Vega left Calero's sons Joshua, 9, and Jason, 5, at their San Ramon home early on Friday while the newlyweds headed out of town for a five-day trip, police said.
The Perils of Driving your kids to school
Rude mother trys to push teacher out of the way after ignoring proper etiquette in dropping her kids off gets arrested. All in lovely Cape Coral area.The News-Press: Local & State
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Betsy Gets A New Printer
On the way from Buy.com - HP Business Inkjet 1200dtn PrinterBuy.com - HP Business Inkjet 1200dtn Printer - C8155A#A2L
Networked -- can be used when Betsy's machine is turned off.
2 trays -- 250 pages and 150 pages. 1 can be used for 8.5x11 and the other for Betsy's legal paper.
Print Speed - Up to 28 ppm - black draft Up to 9 ppm - black normal Up to 4 ppm - black best Up to 24 ppm - mixed text/color graphics draft Up to 8 ppm - mixed text/color graphics normal Up to 4 ppm - mixed text/color graphics best Up to 8.1 ppm
Each of the four individual ink cartridges holds a single color. When one of the black or color ink cartridges runs out, only that cartridge needs to be replaced.
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