tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-154778782024-03-13T22:19:21.056-07:00El CotoroEl Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-38479719954850133172023-12-12T12:40:00.000-08:002024-01-01T17:11:45.603-08:00The Telemark Productions Dog Breed Selector has a New Home<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitX9W98ERoeefe-B4qHmxjiPuU3FrALn5vIAhEgYR72y2FmBurkL4TdZbZnyu7HtIuAzJbxXWO2GUA2loOIvhWrUZIwwSh3evkTWRf1Hqt09MIlPOvnO-KmjfG9er5p5vkWbNcuxGHHsgNiYcwBofU2Rq9opIpAs6ltrKi9OhYQsGqBaeqINE/s400/guide.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="400" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitX9W98ERoeefe-B4qHmxjiPuU3FrALn5vIAhEgYR72y2FmBurkL4TdZbZnyu7HtIuAzJbxXWO2GUA2loOIvhWrUZIwwSh3evkTWRf1Hqt09MIlPOvnO-KmjfG9er5p5vkWbNcuxGHHsgNiYcwBofU2Rq9opIpAs6ltrKi9OhYQsGqBaeqINE/s320/guide.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />More than 25 years ago, Ellen Brodsky and I had the idea of developing a program that would help people find the best dog breeds for their preferences and lifestyle. I had a background in Artificial Intelligence, and I was confident that I could write such a program. Ellen took on the task of working with dogs breed associations, dog breeders, dog trainers, and other experts to gather the data we would need for the program.<p></p><p>We published the first dog breed selector on a CD-ROM called "Telemark's Guide to Dogs." In addition to the breed selector, the CD contained many articles on dog training, interesting facts about dogs, information and photos of dog breeds, and even videos.</p><p>After the initial publication, the rights were sold to the Learning Company, which sold 45,000 copies.</p><p>When the Learning Company ceased publication, the rights to the breed selector (and the breed profiles and photos) were licensed to IAMS, which featured the product on their website for more than 15 years.</p><p>We continued to refine and update the program over the years. Eventually, IAMS decided not to renew their contract, and the rights were sold to <a href="https://georgiapuppiesfromheaven.com/">Sugar Sweet Georgia Puppies</a>, which new features the <a href="https://georgiapuppiesfromheaven.com/dog-breed-info/dog-breed-selector/">dog breed selector</a> on their website. </p><p>We're very happy that the product has had such a long and successful life, and is still helping people and families find their "best breeds."</p><p><br /></p>El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-54208165660768188012018-05-05T18:08:00.001-07:002018-05-05T18:08:35.694-07:00Erectile Dysfunction: Not a Joking Matter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KqN5p-9IQPI/Wu5VXZdPUUI/AAAAAAAAAM8/m4Oe-R8I9B45cw74TwS3P7uVALYSpWctwCLcBGAs/s1600/iStock-157608951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KqN5p-9IQPI/Wu5VXZdPUUI/AAAAAAAAAM8/m4Oe-R8I9B45cw74TwS3P7uVALYSpWctwCLcBGAs/s320/iStock-157608951.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Approximately 30 million men in the United States have erectile dysfunction. Contrary to TV ads, for most men, dealing with ED is not a simple matter of taking a pill.<br />
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ED is often caused by several factors, and men struggle to find an effective treatment, often with little help of support from the medical profession.<br />
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A recent survey by the <a href="https://edtreatment.info/">ED Treatment Information Center (edtreatment.info)</a> found that ED has a profound impact on men’s lives and relationships, including their confidence, self-esteem, and general happiness.<br />
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The survey also shows that, due embarrassment and shame, men are often uncomfortable talking about their condition... even with their doctors and partners.<br />
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Men are unhappy with the care they get from their doctors, <i>and with every treatment method tried</i>.<br />
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Over 80% of men said that their condition had “Some Impact” or a “Major Impact” on their relationships.<br />
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To download the complete study, visit <a href="http://edtreatment.info/ed-impact-study">edtreatment.info/ed-impact-study</a><br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-19218246149540538202017-08-24T17:54:00.000-07:002017-08-24T17:54:00.197-07:00I Remember: the California Condor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CKUx6qL7POQ/WZ9pmiWVmqI/AAAAAAAAAMU/_xMaPfEdXcUefKhyaqlvRYbhadHOq6o-wCLcBGAs/s1600/condor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CKUx6qL7POQ/WZ9pmiWVmqI/AAAAAAAAAMU/_xMaPfEdXcUefKhyaqlvRYbhadHOq6o-wCLcBGAs/s400/condor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
It was the summer of 1972. I spent most of the summer backpacking in the Cleveland National Forest, near San Diego.<br />
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On one particular morning, I was crossing a broad meadow. The meadow was covered with dried grass, about 2 feet tall, and I was concerned about rattlesnakes. I was shuffling my feet, making as much noise as possible, to give the snakes warning so they could get out of my path. My attention was mostly on the ground.<br />
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Partway across the meadow I stopped to take a break and have a drink from my canteen. Looking up, I was amazed to see a California Condor soaring overhead. At that time, the Condor was on the brink of extinction... there were very few left in the wild, so seeing one was a rare treat.<br />
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I watched him for a few minutes. He was gliding in a wide circle, barely moving his wings, riding the thermals. It was an awesome sight.<br />
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After a while, I decided I'd better get moving again, to get across the meadow before it got too hot. As I walked, the Condor seemed to keep pace with me... circling back again and again, never getting too far away. <br />
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In those days, there were no smart phones, and my camera was packed away. I wish now that I'd taken the time to unpack it and get a photo, but I did not. <br />
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I've often wondered what he was doing. Was he searching for prey? Was he curious about me? Maybe he was waiting for me to die!<br />
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It probably took me 45 minutes to cross the meadow, and he stayed with me the whole time. When I reached the tree line on the other side of the meadow, I paused for another drink, and took one last look at the magnificent bird before continuing on my way.<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-7161687316097596152016-04-29T20:30:00.005-07:002016-04-30T08:50:10.497-07:00This is How You Trash a House<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pKywS_pnytk/VyQodPRl2LI/AAAAAAAAALk/Pg6Af-DFHWQHwzuHyIk0YQwXJvlNjJYJQCK4B/s1600/2016-04-23%2B10.08.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pKywS_pnytk/VyQodPRl2LI/AAAAAAAAALk/Pg6Af-DFHWQHwzuHyIk0YQwXJvlNjJYJQCK4B/s400/2016-04-23%2B10.08.04.jpg" width="300" /></a>I recently bought a new house in Elk Grove, California (just South of Sacramento).<br />
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The seller had been leasing the home to some extended family, and requested a short rent-back to give them time to move out. Apparently the family felt they were being "forced out of their home" and decided to trash the place. These are just a few photos of the damage.<br />
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The seller was close to foreclosure, and most of the price went straight to his bank. Both the seller and the family are judgement proof - they have no assets worth going after. My insurance company - Nationwide - seems to be fast an reasonable so far, but I am stuck living in a hotel while the damage is repaired. <br />
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On the plus side, as my realtor pointed out, I'm going to end up with a really nice house.<br />
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A partial list of the damage includes kitchen appliances ripped out, kitchen cabinets smashed, interior lighting fixtures removed, interior doors smashed, holes punched in walls, window screens destroyed, a couple of windows broken, the back patio awning completely removed, broken furniture and trash thrown in the pool, liquids poured on carpets, garage door kicked in, stair railing broken, and garbage and debris left everywhere. It's going to cost over $2,000 just to have the trash hauled away.<br />
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On the plus side, Elk Grove is a beautiful community, the neighbors are really nice, and I think it's going to be a great investment. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hNFIZwZX6lE/VyQkPWwkAUI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/AFB8krQlLI8COXd9aOboWjBFyj50zZEvgCK4B/s1600/2016-04-23%2B09.59.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hNFIZwZX6lE/VyQkPWwkAUI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/AFB8krQlLI8COXd9aOboWjBFyj50zZEvgCK4B/s640/2016-04-23%2B09.59.45.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNJ_2lv2tcQ/VyQlAuNJD5I/AAAAAAAAAKM/5Y727m-9LZM8RKcwQjUf4uZbik2cFiWWQCK4B/s1600/2016-04-23%2B10.08.18.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNJ_2lv2tcQ/VyQlAuNJD5I/AAAAAAAAAKM/5Y727m-9LZM8RKcwQjUf4uZbik2cFiWWQCK4B/s640/2016-04-23%2B10.08.18.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p25Ni5sFbCY/VyQlUKWjunI/AAAAAAAAAKU/mMWteOgErmQXy7kc7VjFGd9mFJbiewzJQCK4B/s1600/2016-04-23%2B10.08.57.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p25Ni5sFbCY/VyQlUKWjunI/AAAAAAAAAKU/mMWteOgErmQXy7kc7VjFGd9mFJbiewzJQCK4B/s640/2016-04-23%2B10.08.57.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FCiAxsZU5KM/VyQnxJcnr3I/AAAAAAAAALU/bJ0eWODAzeUBHBmoXeni7GQShV4Cb5SbwCK4B/s1600/2016-04-23%2B09.59.55.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FCiAxsZU5KM/VyQnxJcnr3I/AAAAAAAAALU/bJ0eWODAzeUBHBmoXeni7GQShV4Cb5SbwCK4B/s640/2016-04-23%2B09.59.55.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lZngIJ6bEkM/VyQllmiMNxI/AAAAAAAAAKg/qfw0xIuqhGUNi98AkKAvWieITrcOizgIQCK4B/s1600/2016-04-23%2B10.02.30.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lZngIJ6bEkM/VyQllmiMNxI/AAAAAAAAAKg/qfw0xIuqhGUNi98AkKAvWieITrcOizgIQCK4B/s640/2016-04-23%2B10.02.30.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-21302124473445491272015-10-09T17:16:00.002-07:002015-10-10T10:12:28.402-07:00On a Serious Note<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4chb0kdAXMc/VhhWKzqIIAI/AAAAAAAAAJY/V4DCTuHsRuE/s1600/2015-09-21%2B10.32.37-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4chb0kdAXMc/VhhWKzqIIAI/AAAAAAAAAJY/V4DCTuHsRuE/s320/2015-09-21%2B10.32.37-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I have just undergone treatment for prostate cancer.<br />
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After reviewing the options - surgical or radiation treatment - I found a fairly new treatment called <b>Cyberknife</b> (a brand name for robotic Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy, or SBRT).<br />
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The treatment replaces ten weeks of radiation therapy with <i>five days</i>! It's much less expensive, and the total radiation exposure over the full course of treatment is about half the exposure from conventional therapy. Yet the clinical results are essentially the same as conventional radiation treatment.<br />
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They are able to do this by using a precisely focussed beam of radiation, which allows them to administer a much higher dosage to the tumor with little damage to surrounding tissues. <br />
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Before the week of treatment, they implanted 4 gold seeds in my prostate, and then, using MRI and CT scans, created a computer model of my prostate and the cancer.<br />
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<span class="s1">During the radiation treatment (which lasted about 45 minutes each day), the computer used real-time CT scans to precisely position the beam of radiation on the places they wanted. I simply had to lie reasonably still on the bed. </span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7WWbgtq-bU" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qmP5wI-mJlc/VhhTtVl35xI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/8ziPPfDlIrw/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-10-09%2Bat%2B4.44.21%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click the link to see a Cyberknife promotional video. <br />A sequence showing the robot arm in action starts at 1:08.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="s1">The bed itself was mounted on a robotic arm so they could position it in the general area they wanted; they could also tilt and swivel it in any direction.</span></div>
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The radiation emitter was mounted on the end of another robotic arm. The arm itself was repurposed from the automotive industry, where it’s used in assembly plants. It was BIG, and had a number of complex joints that could pivot in several directions, so it was able to move the emitter all around the bed. The radiologist told me that the system has 1 mm accuracy. </div>
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<span class="s1">The only hard part was an <i>extremely restrictive diet</i>. Anything that causes gas or bloating can cause organs to shift and make it harder for the software to follow the treatment plan developed by the oncologist. And I was only allowed to have clear liquids after lunch, until the following days treatment.</span><br />
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<span class="s1">The treatment sessions themselves were actually restful. My radiologist dimmed the lights in the room, and I let my mind wander, or slept a bit. </span>The robot went through the same sequence every day, so after a couple of days I knew what to expect. As it neared the end of the sequence on Friday, my final day of treatment, I actually felt a bit sad that I wouldn’t be seeing my “buddy” again.<br />
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<span class="s1">SBRT can be used for different types of cancers, not just prostate, and major medical centers across the country now offer the treatment. Despite that, many doctors don't seem be be aware of the option. The urologist who initially diagnosed my cancer did not even present this as an option.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">I wanted to share this so that others know about this amazing treatment option (if your condition meets the criteria for </span>SBRT).</div>
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El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-40042362775554935152015-09-30T16:19:00.000-07:002015-10-09T16:25:27.407-07:00Spanish Missions in Arizona<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twrns1JcJ14/VhhLS1bRzVI/AAAAAAAAAIo/tOw2gj89wQk/s1600/San-Xavier-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twrns1JcJ14/VhhLS1bRzVI/AAAAAAAAAIo/tOw2gj89wQk/s320/San-Xavier-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Building on the success of my <a href="http://www.californiamissionguide.com/">California Missions</a> and <a href="http://www.texasmissionguide.com/">Texas Missions</a> websites, I've just launched a new site, <a href="http://www.arizonamissionguide.com/">arizonamissionguide.com</a>. <br />
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There were only five missions built in Arizona, between 1691 and 1768. (Apparently even the Spanish missionaries found 115 degree temperatures a bit extreme.)<br />
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The first three were founded by Jesuit missionary <b>Father Eusebio Francisco Kino</b>, who was responsible for more than 20 missions. Most of the missions founded by Kino lie within the Mexican state of Sonora.<br />
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The mission church at <a href="http://www.arizonamissionguide.com/arizona-mission-guide/mission-san-xavier-del-bac/"><b>Mission San Xavier del Bac</b></a> was constructed between 1783 and 1797. It is the oldest "European" structure still in use in Arizona.<br />
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I've certainly enjoyed learning about the Arizona missions, and in particular the work of Father Eusebio Francisco Kino, who has been likened to <a href="http://www.californiamissionguide.com/california-mission-guide/california-mission-founders/#serra"><b>Saint Junipero Serra</b></a>, founder of the missions in California.<br />
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For my technically inclined readers, the Arizona Missions site is built on Amazon Web Services (AWS).<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-20036621838364797092015-09-26T16:25:00.000-07:002015-10-09T16:38:24.118-07:00Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vzy4hynQnk4/VhhOKHBjlkI/AAAAAAAAAI0/fnEji649f6U/s1600/2015-09-26%2B11.47.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vzy4hynQnk4/VhhOKHBjlkI/AAAAAAAAAI0/fnEji649f6U/s320/2015-09-26%2B11.47.00.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The <b><a href="http://www.roadstopguide.com/roadstop-guide/1065/hall-fo-flame-museum-firefighting/">Hall of Flame</a></b> is a surprising cool museum located in Phoenix, Arizona. They have a collection of over 80 vehicles used to fight fires, including wagons from the 1700's up through fire engines from the 40s and 50s... plus a lot of other equipment, like helmets and axes.<br />
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At 70,000 square feet, this is the <a href="http://www.roadstopguide.com/roadstop-guide/1065/hall-fo-flame-museum-firefighting/">largest firefighting collection and museum</a> in the world. It's well worth a couple of hours to explore.<br />
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You'll even learn some things. For example, cities once had lookout towers with bells to keep watch for fires and sound an alarm. <br />
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And in more modern times, a "3 alarm fire" means that three different calls were put in for different fire companies to fight a blaze. <br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-50323153990499465202015-08-16T15:29:00.001-07:002015-08-16T15:29:11.015-07:00The Hiller Aviation Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ET6eC8dPTNU/VdEOpm8bJ4I/AAAAAAAAAJM/xhnOVOKZb94/s1600/2015-07-19%2B11.41.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ET6eC8dPTNU/VdEOpm8bJ4I/AAAAAAAAAJM/xhnOVOKZb94/s320/2015-07-19%2B11.41.38.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
In a place like the Bay Area, there are so many things to see and do that many very worthwhile places get overlooked.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.roadstopguide.com/roadstop-guide/741/hiller-aviation-museum/" target="_blank">Hiller Aviation Museum</a> is one of those places. It's just off 101, on a frontage road near the San Carlos Airport. In fact, there are windows in the museum where you can watch the airport activity, and speakers so you can listen to the air traffic controller.<br />
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The museum has a great collection of aircraft, ranging from a full-size replica of the original Wright Flyer up through modern jets, and a few antique cars to put the aircraft in perspective. There is a nose section of an actual 747, so you can see the cockpit and even sit in the pilot's seat. They even have a prototype jetpack, and a NASA spacesuit.<br />
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There are several interactive exhibits, including a simulator that allows you to "fly" a Wright aircraft, and an air traffic control station. <br />
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Upstairs the museum has a number of computers running MicroSoft Flight Simulator. Many of the museum volunteers are pilots, and they are very happy to give kids flying tips and help them out.<br />
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This museum is well worth a trip, and once you've visited, you'll find it's a great place to take out-of-town visitors who get tired of driving by tech companies!<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-85448255237119445672015-08-13T15:11:00.000-07:002015-08-13T20:24:32.553-07:00Road Trip 4: Downward to Phoenix<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Im8T42ADrs/Vc0SEG9wsOI/AAAAAAAAAHE/vOZImGna7KM/s1600/2015-08-13%2B08.59.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Im8T42ADrs/Vc0SEG9wsOI/AAAAAAAAAHE/vOZImGna7KM/s200/2015-08-13%2B08.59.14.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I spend a couple of hours in the morning wandering and "old" Flagstaff. No, this is not the Flagstaff of cowboy legends... just the old downtown area, consisting of small stores and restaurants in buildings dating to the early 20th century. It's a pleasant morning, but there isn't a lot to do, so I decide to get on the road to Sedona.<br />
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* * * * * * * *<br />
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As I leave Flagstaff, the road takes on the character of mountain roads in the Sierras. It's narrow and winding, and along the way there are pine forests, walls of rock, and dramatic dropoffs. The rocks are reddish brown, rather than the grey of Sierra granite, but otherwise the drive feels familiar. <br />
<br />
* * * * * * * *<br />
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Sedona is amazing! The main street is filled with busy shops and restaurants, but the bustling downtown can't begin to compete with the beauty of the surroundings.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5r5Kup8Pg8A/Vc0iUbuPyKI/AAAAAAAAAH8/px6Ud86jg14/s1600/sedona-panorama.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="70" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5r5Kup8Pg8A/Vc0iUbuPyKI/AAAAAAAAAH8/px6Ud86jg14/s400/sedona-panorama.jpg" width="400" /></a>
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<br />
* * * * * * * *<br />
<br />
The road gradually straightens as I leave Sedona. It continues to descend, and I once again find myself in desert. From time to time I pass stands of Saguaro cactus that seem to stretch for miles. <i>This</i> feels like the desert of the old west.<br />
<br />
My arrival in Phoenix is anti-climactic. Traffic builds, and the freeway widens. There are more onramps and offramps, and soon I am passing by shopping malls and car dealers.<br />
<br />
There is a heat alert in Phoenix today. When I arrive at my hotel, the temperature is 112 degrees. Improbably, there is a basketball court outside my room. I think I'll skip shooting hoops today. Maybe tomorrow. But probably not.<br />
<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-23164961833007517002015-08-12T21:09:00.002-07:002015-08-13T20:24:55.111-07:00Road Trip 3: Climbing to Flagstaff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QytNE_StpBk/Vcwd1fMmt9I/AAAAAAAAAGg/5VSOsvxpRss/s1600/2015-08-11-17.45.36-needles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QytNE_StpBk/Vcwd1fMmt9I/AAAAAAAAAGg/5VSOsvxpRss/s320/2015-08-11-17.45.36-needles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Needles, California. 8:00 AM and it's already 90 degrees. The temperature is predicted to climb to 108 later in the day, and 116 over the weekend.<br />
<br />
It's time to get on the road.<br />
<br />
* * * * * * * *<br />
<br />
Heading East from Needles, the highway starts to rise. It is still desert, but the land starts to take on more interesting shapes. There is more vegetation, and it's a bit more green. The road twists and turns a bit, following the terrain, rather than lying dead straight.<br />
<br />
The Colorado River comes as a surprise. Suddenly, in the midst of the parched landscape, there is a sleek modern bridge across a narrow swath of incredible blue water. Midway across the bridge there is a marker: I am now in Arizona.<br />
<br />
Across the river the land becomes dry again, and the road climbs a bit more steeply. Nothing looks like the mountains I am used to... the California Sierras. There are no jagged, rocky peaks, Instead there are tall hills, brownish red, and buttes like something from and old western movie.<br />
<br />
By the time I reach Kingman, the elevation is 3,500 feet. Seligman, my next destination, is over 5,200.<br />
<br />
* * * * * * * *<br />
<br />
Along the way, I have a flat tire, and I call AAA Roadside Assistance. The dispatcher asks if I have water, and access to shade. This isn't Silicon Valley!<br />
<br />
While I wait, I see a truck with a light bar on top. I watch as it goes by, wondering if it's my AAA service. The truck turns around and drives back. Up close I see that it's a park service truck. The driver asks if I need anything... he saw me watching as he drove by.<br />
<br />
A bit later another car stops to ask if I need help. People seem to watch out for one another here. It's definitely not Silicon Valley.<br />
<br />
The AAA driver arrives a few minutes later. He asks if I have water.<br />
<br />
* * * * * * * *<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GE7tswDjYaY/Vc0Qt-huA8I/AAAAAAAAAG4/iibqTQHwX60/s1600/2015-08-12%2B13.05.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GE7tswDjYaY/Vc0Qt-huA8I/AAAAAAAAAG4/iibqTQHwX60/s320/2015-08-12%2B13.05.03.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
In Kingman, and again in Seligman, I turn off I-40 onto portions of the old Route 66... America's first great highway, the mother road, main street of America. Today the old, winding highway has been bypassed, along with many of the communities it passed through. It's lined with decaying buildings. Small stretches have been rejuvenated as tourist mecca's, paying nostalgic homage to the 40's, 50's, and 60's. <br />
<br />
I visit some museums, a couple of souvenir shops, and a diner. It's fun, and I learn a bit about the history of the road and the communities.<br />
<br />
Leaving Seligman, I see a coyote by the road. I think it's a good sign.<br />
<br />
* * * * * * * *<br />
<br />
I arrive in Flagstaff by mid-afternoon. Flagstaff is at 7,000 feet, and finally there are trees... the largest Ponderosa Pine forest in the world. The trees are refreshing, but they seem stunted by lack of water. It's like a forest of miniature trees.<br />
<br />
I stop at a small cafe for a cold drink before I find a hotel for the night. Later, I decide to walk back to the cafe for dinner. Clouds have moved in, and it rains a bit. It's amazing after the past few days!<br />
<br />
The cafe is also amazing. It's definitely a "foodie" place. I have a wonderful creamy carrot soup, soda bread, and pasta with mushrooms.<br />
<br />
It's been a good day.<br />
<br />
<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-84572126702455340052015-08-11T20:05:00.002-07:002015-08-13T20:25:15.596-07:00Road Trip 2: The Mojave<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YpwWi9wvYuY/Vcq4T2ZcgWI/AAAAAAAAAF8/Ip2O21OlwZ4/s1600/2015-08-11%2B11.14.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YpwWi9wvYuY/Vcq4T2ZcgWI/AAAAAAAAAF8/Ip2O21OlwZ4/s320/2015-08-11%2B11.14.00.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Traveling from Bakersfield to Needles California means crossing the Mojave Desert.<br />
<br />
I drive up through the low lying mountains, and the start across the sprawling desert. The names are like ghosts from my childhood... Tehachapi, Mohave, Barstow... <br />
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The desert has an austere beauty. There are few places on earth that are still so empty. <br />
<br />
There are turnoffs from the highway every twenty minutes or so. Forlorn signs promise <b>Gas - Food - Lodging</b>, but I see nothing but desert beyond the turnoffs. Still, the desert can be deceptive. Perhaps there is a slight rise, barely visible, and just beyond the rise a prosperous town, complete with MacDonalds, Starbucks, and a Ramada Inn with a sparkling swimming pool. But probably not. <br />
<br />
I made sure I had gas and water before starting my trip; I don't take any of the turnoffs.<br />
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* * * * * * * *<br />
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At Barstow I take a small detour to visit the <i>Barstow Route 66 Mother Road Museum</i>. I've been looking forward to this for days.<br />
<br />
The museum is closed. Perhaps I'll see it another time. But probably not.<br />
<br />
* * * * * * * *<br />
<br />
I have better luck with <i>Calico Ghost Town</i>. It's an 1880's silver mining town. Surrounded by 100 miles of desert in every direction, I wonder how people ever found thier way here... and why? <br />
<br />
Now the town bustles with busloads of tourists. I spend a few minutes chatting with a German family. They are fascinated by a display of old west guns, and each family member takes an individual photo of the display.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tPuKlQ13D84/Vcq47jrKGFI/AAAAAAAAAGM/pGnLoi7Yz6o/s1600/2015-08-11%2B13.37.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tPuKlQ13D84/Vcq47jrKGFI/AAAAAAAAAGM/pGnLoi7Yz6o/s320/2015-08-11%2B13.37.22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I wander through the town, taking time to examine old wagons and mining equipment. The buildings now sell souvenirs, crafts, and food. I have a beer and a couple of hot dogs before getting back on the road.<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-6254954659235867052015-08-11T19:48:00.004-07:002015-08-13T20:25:41.603-07:00Road Trip 1: The Central ValleyCalifornia's Central Valley is BIG. You can drive for hours and see nothing but road and fields, stretching away in all directions.<br />
<br />
It is one of the most productive agricultural areas in the world. It contains 1% of the total farmland in the US, but accounts for 8% of the country's agricultural output.<br />
<br />
And it desperately needs water. Driving south, I saw many fields that were not cultivated, and had returned to dust. There were signs posted everywhere:<br />
<br />
<b>No Water = No Jobs</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Congress is Creating Another Dustbowl</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Build Reservoirs, not Railroads</b><br />
<br />
I don't understand all the political issues, but it's clear that there is a lot of pain.<br />
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* * * * * * * *<br />
<br />
I arrived in Bakersfield hot and tired... I suppose everyone arrives that way. I noticed right away that I had a flat tire, and pull off the road in a sketchy looking warehouse area. I called AAA, and waited for the tow truck in the 95 degree heat.<br />
<br />
I watched as a man walked slowly up to me. He looked at the flat tire and asked if I needed help. I told him a tow truck was on the way.<br />
<br />
He said he was out walking because he was out of work, and he pointed up the road to his house. He said if the tow truck didn't show up I should come and get him.<br />
<br />
We chatted for a couple of minutes, and then he looked at me and said, "I've been in prison. I raped and killed my stepdaughter. I'm not proud of it, but I did my time."<br />
<br />
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">He said that after prison he got a job working for a local auto parts store, but had to quit because the owner had two teenage girls that were just too much temptation for him.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">I didn't know what to say. I told him something else would probably come along for him. I think he just needed to talk to someone... a stranger.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The tow truck came and I sat in the air conditioned cab as the driver loaded my car. </span><br />
<span class="s1"><br /></span>
<span class="s1">The man walked away down the road, toward his house.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"></span></div>
* * * * * * * *<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
I was in my hotel room in Bakersfield, lying in bed. Someone knocked at the door. I looked at the clock and it was 12:15. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I went to the door and looked out the peephole. There was a girl standing outside wearing tiny shorts and a crop top, showing lots of skin. Through the door, I asked her what she wanted. She said that she had just talked to me on the phone, and I had given her my room number.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I told her she had the wrong room, and I went back to bed.</div>
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<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
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El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-61293157616651206942015-07-28T12:46:00.002-07:002015-07-28T12:47:27.452-07:00Online Courses for Website Operators<br />
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<img alt="" src="http://www.learningjack-online-training-courses.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/learning-jack-logo.png" /></div>
As the operator of a large number of websites, I've learned a few things that I'm happy to share with other web publishers.<br />
<br />
I've recently launched a new site, LearningJack.com, to produce online training, and the first two courses "short courses" are up and running!<br />
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<a href="http://www.learningjack-online-training-courses.com/catalog/courses/managing-your-site-with-wordpress/">Managing Your Site with WordPress</a> - a 60-minute course that teaches the basics of adding and updating pages, posts, and pictures on your WordPress website.<br />
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<a href="http://www.learningjack-online-training-courses.com/catalog/courses/a-practical-introduction-to-search-engine-optimization/">A Practical Introduction to Search Engine Optimization</a> - a 75-minute course intended for a website owner or website designer who needs to increase traffic to the site through achieving better placement in search engine results. It's an introduction to all of the principles, tools, and techniques required for effective SEO.<br />
<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-64665164429591400782015-06-02T13:50:00.003-07:002015-06-02T13:50:45.772-07:00The Roadstop Guide to Roadside Attractions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSRSg0HWrss/VW4W9RFVIzI/AAAAAAAAAIw/8vGT70OJwDw/s1600/RoadStopGuide-Postcard-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSRSg0HWrss/VW4W9RFVIzI/AAAAAAAAAIw/8vGT70OJwDw/s320/RoadStopGuide-Postcard-front.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
One of the best things about roadtrips is discovering the fun, quirky little places along the way. A drive-through tree, a museum of farm plows, a wig-wam motel...<br />
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There is a new website, the <a href="http://www.roadstopguide.com/" target="_blank">Roadstop Guide</a>, aimed at helping you find those fun-and-funky places on your travels. There are relatively few listings so far, but you can help by sharing YOUR favorite places.<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-35345560179257440732015-03-20T09:57:00.001-07:002015-03-20T10:13:20.342-07:00Spanish Missions in Texas<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o1gIE1wFJr0/VQxPqVwovVI/AAAAAAAAAIU/r76PlQ_8A_U/s1600/san-jose-y-san-miguel-de-aguayo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o1gIE1wFJr0/VQxPqVwovVI/AAAAAAAAAIU/r76PlQ_8A_U/s1600/san-jose-y-san-miguel-de-aguayo.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
There has been a lot of interest, over the years, in my <a href="http://www.californiamissionguide.com/" target="_blank">California Missions</a> website. The missions gave birth to the modern state of California.<br />
<br />
I recently started learning about Spanish missions in other parts of the US, and I was inspired to create a new site, the <a href="http://www.texasmissionguide.com/" target="_blank">Texas Mission Guide</a>. <br />
<br />
The Texas missions are different from the California missions in several ways. They were built much earlier (the LAST Texas mission was built just a few years after the FIRST California mission). They were often built in groups, just a few miles from one another, instead of forming a long trail of individual missions as they do in California. There is also less known about the Texas missions, because many were abandoned and fell into ruins, with few records being kept. <br />
<br />
But just as in California, the missions laid the groundwork for today's culture. The famed <i>Texas cattle drives</i> were started by Spanish missionaries moving herds to supply the missions!<br />
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The new site is a work in progress, but I am looking forward to learning more and visiting the Texas missions soon!<br />
<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-25944830054651877292015-03-01T16:33:00.000-08:002015-03-20T16:33:28.236-07:00How Far We've Come<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pBk-FZeslhA/VQytyS0pekI/AAAAAAAAAFk/NFEm1aRaHc0/s1600/amazon.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pBk-FZeslhA/VQytyS0pekI/AAAAAAAAAFk/NFEm1aRaHc0/s1600/amazon.gif" height="312" width="320" /></a></div>
This is a screen snapshot of a very early version of the Amazon.com website.<br />
<br />
Given the appearance of the site, it's amazing that large numbers of people (including me) trusted them with credit card information.<br />
<br />
I recall getting a free traveling coffee mug with the Amazon logo at Christmas the first year... a gift to reward their early customers.<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02149600497834494225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-89619611553759523902014-12-31T15:28:00.000-08:002014-12-31T15:28:07.143-08:00Effective Websites for Artists<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YhzAXX0Tdys/VKSFySuARdI/AAAAAAAAAHs/FNQ6zIJxb3A/s1600/cover-2nd-edition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YhzAXX0Tdys/VKSFySuARdI/AAAAAAAAAHs/FNQ6zIJxb3A/s1600/cover-2nd-edition.jpg" height="320" width="217" /></a></div>
My book, <i>Effective Websites for Artists and Art Groups (2nd Edition)</i> was published in 2010. <br />
<br />
Things on the Internet change so fast that the book is already a little dated. Rather than update the book for a 3rd edition, I've decided to post the entire contents of the book online, for free.<br />
<br />
Although some of the details are out of date, the book is still a very useful resource. You'll find the complete book at:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.artchain.com/effective-websites-for-artists/" target="_blank">Effective Websites for Artists and Art Groups</a><br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-3512236193454495432014-11-19T18:43:00.002-08:002014-11-19T18:43:25.027-08:00What's Your Chinese Zodiac Sign?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.chinatown-directory.com/common/zodiac/chinese-zodiac.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.chinatown-directory.com/common/zodiac/chinese-zodiac.png" /></a></div>
The Chinese 'Zodiac' holds a strange fascination for westerners. <br />
<br />
The animals of the zodiac are best known as part of the cycle of years. Years of the Chinese lunar calendar are known as the "Year of the Dragon" or the "Year of the Horse."<br />
<br />
We've added a new feature to the <a href="http://www.chinatown-directory.com/" target="_blank">Chinatown Directory</a> website to <a href="http://www.chinatown-directory.com/find-your-chinese-zodiac-sign.html" target="_blank">find your Chinese Zodiac sign</a> based on your birthdate.<br />
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You can also find out about <a href="http://www.chinatown-directory.com/chinese-new-year-celebrations.html" target="_blank">Chinese New Year celebrations</a> in the largest Chinatowns throughout North America.<br />
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-11695819185764028422014-11-08T11:54:00.001-08:002014-11-08T11:57:14.209-08:00The Magic of the California Redwoods<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0rXMCVbe36Q/VF5xnaz750I/AAAAAAAAAHU/KajYj6Stna4/s1600/Avenue-of-the-giants.jpg" height="178" width="550" />
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<a href="http://www.aveofthegiants.com/">California's redwood forests</a> are a glimpse into a primeval world. The groves of ancient, towering trees have stood, virtually unchanged, for millennia.<br />
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Nestled in the heart of the redwoods is a 31-mile-long stretch of highway, the <a href="http://www.aveofthegiants.com/auto-tour/">Avenue of the Giants</a>. This road was originally built as a stagecoach and wagon road in the 1880s, and later became a state highway.<br />
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The road was bypassed by the modern Highway 101, leaving the route as a kind of time capsule. Along the avenue you'll find campgrounds and cabins dating back to the 1930's, as well as souvenir shops and attractions like the famous drive-through tree.<br />
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There's also a <a href="http://www.aveofthegiants.com/auto-tour/3-visitors-center/">Redwoods Visitor's Center</a>, and dozens of places to picnic and hike. If you're traveling in Northern California, take the time to drive the Avenue of the Giants; it will add only a couple of hours to your trip. <br />
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Better yet, plan on spending a few days to explore the area and enjoy the incredible beauty of the ancient redwoods.<br />
<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-74513202538921904472014-07-19T13:11:00.003-07:002015-08-19T11:27:31.675-07:00The California Missions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_pEWTnIwWg/U8rQ4GKAlAI/AAAAAAAAAHA/eSzIOHLRBHU/s1600/mission-san-juan-bautista.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_pEWTnIwWg/U8rQ4GKAlAI/AAAAAAAAAHA/eSzIOHLRBHU/s1600/mission-san-juan-bautista.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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The California Missions are integral to the history and culture of California. The missions were built over the period from 1769 to 1823, and they grew and evolved into some of California's most important cities. The trail that connected the missions, <i><a href="http://www.californiamissionguide.com/history/el_camino_real.html">El Camino Real</a></i>, became California's first "highway."<br />
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I've visited 14 of the 21 missions, and each was fascinating in its own way. My favorites include:<br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.californiamissionguide.com/missions/san-juan-bautista/">Mission San Juan Bautista</a>, which is located in a small town and surrounded by well-preserved historical buildings. There is also a small stretch of dirt trail that was part of the original El Camino Real.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.californiamissionguide.com/missions/lompoc/">Mission La Purísima Concepción</a>, which has been restored and is now operated as a California State Historic Park. Today it is the best example of a working mission community.</li>
</ul>
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My interest in the missions eventually grew into a website, the <a href="http://www.californiamissionguide.com/">California Mission Guide,</a> which I continue to maintain and expand.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1489574220/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1489574220&linkCode=as2&tag=wygk&linkId=VT6X3OVF3K42M3PB" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="The California Mission Guide" border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_5gSgU5zpQ/U8rPEHGB6lI/AAAAAAAAAG0/vXDgVrs8Lhk/s1600/mission-guide.jpg" title="" width="100" /></a></div>
Recently, I packaged the information from the site into a book, a kind of "field guide" to the missions. It's available at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1489574220/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1489574220&linkCode=as2&tag=wygk&linkId=VT6X3OVF3K42M3PB">Amazon.com</a>.<br />
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Learn more about the <a href="http://www.travelblat.com/experience-history-california-missions/" target="_blank">California Missions at TravelBlat.com</a>El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-70727064784231166742012-09-16T18:55:00.002-07:002014-11-09T13:53:31.393-08:00The Hand - Stylus for iPad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-94VFw36GCF8/UFZ-pVGXdKI/AAAAAAAAAFk/qsv6-e8sOQ0/s1600/hand-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-94VFw36GCF8/UFZ-pVGXdKI/AAAAAAAAAFk/qsv6-e8sOQ0/s320/hand-1.jpg" height="203" width="320" /></a></div>
For some time, I've been looking for the perfect stylus for note-taking on my iPad. Every stylus I've seen or read about involved a compromise in some aspect.<br />
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I thought that I had finally found the perfect choice in the new <b>Hand</b> stylus, but unfortunately, it also has issues that make it virtually unusable (for me).<br />
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The Hand arrives in really nifty packaging: the stylus is nestled in a foam insert in a metal case, which is in turn contained in an elegant cardboard box reminiscent of the packaging on Apple products. Although the packaging creates a good initial impression, it's also wasteful... I certainly don't need another little box lying around. I think it would be a better choice for the company to ditch the metal box and knock a little off the price (a relatively hefty $29.95).<br />
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<h3>
The Good</h3>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;">
<tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M59Gjgr2aBc/UFaCGvMLrpI/AAAAAAAAAF8/2T2R-4QCelw/s1600/hand-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M59Gjgr2aBc/UFaCGvMLrpI/AAAAAAAAAF8/2T2R-4QCelw/s320/hand-3.jpg" height="320" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hand (lower left) has a much finer stylus than competitors.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the plus side, the <b>Hand</b> is <i>solid</i>. The heavy weight and knurled area near the tip make the pen easy to grip and give it a high-quality feel.<br />
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The tip is retractable, like a ball-point pen. <br />
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The weak point of many competitors is the tip, which wears out quickly, making the stylus into a throw-away item. The <b>Hand</b> has a replaceable tip; an optional tin of six tips sells for $9.95.<br />
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A major selling point of the <b>Hand</b> is the fine tip. At just 4 millimeters, it's less than half the size of competitors (see photo). In theory, this should allow more precise control when drawing or writing.<br />
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<h3>
The Bad</h3>
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Unfortunately, the fine tip is also the weakness of the <b>Hand</b>. The capacitive detection technology on the iPad screen requires a certain area of contact. In order to make the iPad recognize the <b>Hand</b>, you need to press really hard, to<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> "mash" the tip against the screen. </span><br />
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The result is a very awkward, uncomfortable and tiring writing experience. My other stylus glides lightly over the iPad screen, making writing feel completely natural. The <b>Hand</b> requires a constant effort to maintain pressure... so much so, that I unconsciously worry about damaging my iPad. <i>(Note: I am not saying that the <b>Hand</b> will damage the iPad screen - it just feels that way to me while writing.)</i><br />
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I really wanted the <b>Hand</b> to be the perfect stylus. But the heavy pressure required to use it makes it the wrong choice.<br />
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Sadly, I cannot recommend this stylus.
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<br />El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-91728944695096320502011-06-17T07:55:00.000-07:002011-06-17T07:55:30.910-07:00World's Oldest Lightbulb Celebrates 110th Birthday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P3gRG4CGRpA/TftqWozHgPI/AAAAAAAAACo/HYXshSFQggY/s1600/Bulb.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P3gRG4CGRpA/TftqWozHgPI/AAAAAAAAACo/HYXshSFQggY/s320/Bulb.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The oldest known continuously burning lightbulb hangs in an unassuming fire station in Livermore California.<br />
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Recognized by the <b>Guinness Book of World Records</b>, the bulb has been burning for-or-less continuously since 1901. It was installed just months after the death of Queen Victoria, and two years before the Wright brothers' first flight.<br />
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The bulb has actually been off for short periods of time due to power outages, and during a move of the fire station. It is now powered by a generator with a surge protector to prevent damage to the bulb.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KWLVFka7lKU/TftqWykbLBI/AAAAAAAAACs/rI0sYD5gGGM/s1600/lynn2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KWLVFka7lKU/TftqWykbLBI/AAAAAAAAACs/rI0sYD5gGGM/s200/lynn2.jpg" width="150" /></a>The bulb has been featured in many articles, books, and television programs (including <b>Mythbusters</b>). In keeping with its notoriety, the City of Livermore is hosting a public birthday celebration for the bulb on Saturday, June 18, 2011.<br />
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And of course the bulb has its own website, at <a href="http://www.centennialbulb.org/">www.centennialbulb.org</a>. Among the features on the site is a <a href="http://www.centennialbulb.org/cam.htm">Bulb Cam</a> which is updated every ten seconds.El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-69299026095257715372011-05-23T15:21:00.000-07:002011-05-23T15:42:59.179-07:00A Taste of Venice in San Francisco<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IH1ucUIAYbo/TdrY_h31f9I/AAAAAAAAACg/wuQsVrhJGok/s1600/IMG_0996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IH1ucUIAYbo/TdrY_h31f9I/AAAAAAAAACg/wuQsVrhJGok/s320/IMG_0996.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Courtesy <a href="http://www.couling.com/">Cindy Couling</a></td></tr>
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<b>El Cotoro</b> enjoyed a fabulous wine and food pairing at <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/place?cid=6675567577415940627&q=da+flora,+san+francisco&hl=en&gl=us&ie=UTF8&z=14"><b>Da Flora</b></a>, a North Beach restaurant specializing in Venetian cooking.<br />
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The meal was organized by North Beach <a href="http://gianni.tv/">chef and blogger Gianni</a>. It was an afternoon event (Da Flora is normally open evenings only), allowing us to keep the door open and enjoy a wonderful fresh spring day.<br />
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The meal was a four-course custom menu, with a carefully selected Italian wine paired with each course. My favorites included the fresh-baked <i>focaccia</i>, the absolutely delicious <i>Paleta de risi frita </i>(fried rice balls stuffed with bay shrimp with a spicy aioli), and <i>Lombatino di porseo</i> (spice-rubbed roasted pork medallions with sauteed fava greens, roasted asparagus and pickled red spring onions, with a whole grain mustard sauce.<br />
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Of the wines, a really enjoyed the <i>La Montechia Piuchebello 2008 (Veneto)</i>, a white wine made from Muscat grapes.<br />
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I highly recommend planning a visit to Da Flora for a unique and unforgettable meal!<br />
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<i>Share your <a href="http://www.restaurantratingz.com/ratings/31541/Restaurant-Da-Flora.html">review of Da Flora</a> and <a href="http://restaurantratingz.com/">RestaurantRatingz.com</a>.</i>El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-33365115468194189172011-04-30T09:47:00.000-07:002011-05-04T10:37:59.314-07:00Bamboo Bicycles?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://stalkbicycles.nagooyen.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Stalk-Bicycles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="265" width="400" src="http://stalkbicycles.nagooyen.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Stalk-Bicycles.jpg" /></a></div><br />
On a recent visit to San Francisco's Academy of Sciences, I saw a display of a fascinating product - a bamboo bicycle.<br />
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The bicycle frames are made by Stalk Bicyles, an Oakland, California company. They've been developing the design and techniques for a couple of years.<br />
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While the frames and even handlebars can be made from bamboo, other components use traditional materials. (Stalk is currently doing research and testing of bamboo composites that could eventually be used in new ways.)<br />
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Bamboo is a fast growing, renewable resource. It can be locally grown, and while growing it absorbs much more carbon and produces more oxygen than hardwood forests.<br />
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Its strength and resilience compare favorably with the steel alloys and carbon fiber materials used for most bicycle frames today.<br />
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But just as importantly... <i>these bikes are cool!</i><br />
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Currently, Stalk is producing custom frames and bikes "to order." As production expands, they will begin producing ready-made frames in standard frame sizes.<br />
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Check out the <a href="http://www.stalkbicycles.com/">Stalk Bicycles website</a>, and if you are in the area, visit these guys. Let your bike make a statement for sustainability.El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15477878.post-32287642954750118782011-04-18T08:11:00.000-07:002011-04-18T08:33:23.984-07:00Coming soon: Maker Faire 2011<p><b>May 21 and 22, 2011</b><br />
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vJJ9zE3EPZk/TaxT3y0hSZI/AAAAAAAAACY/bFSqHl1Vbh8/s1600/DSCN0607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vJJ9zE3EPZk/TaxT3y0hSZI/AAAAAAAAACY/bFSqHl1Vbh8/s400/DSCN0607.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<h2>What is Maker Faire?</h2><br />
<i>The 21st century equivalent of an old-fashioned county fair. The world's largest Do-It-Yourself festival. Steam Punk meets Silicon Valley, with a bit of Burning Man thrown in.</i><br />
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For two days, people gather to celebrate and see creativity in all forms. Some of my favorite memories of past years include:<br />
<ul><p> </p><li>The crazy cupcake cars whizzing and whirling around the entryway.</li>
<p> </p><li>The Flaming Lotus Girls, combining kinetic sculpture with propane, fire and mayhem.</li>
<p> </p><li>The robot rickshaw plodding patiently through the fairgrounds.</li>
<p> </p><li>Lightning harnessed and unleashed by the enormous Tesla coils.</li>
<p> </p><li>The 3-D printer, making replicas and models directly from engineering specs. </li>
<p> </p><li>The Mentos and diet coke show (don't stand too close to the stage!)</li>
<p> </p><li>Rockets, fire, balloons, costumes, robots, art, tools and projects, and oh yes, did I mention fire?</li>
</ul><br />
Maker Faire began in the San Francisco Bay Area (at the San Mateo Fairgrounds) in 2006, and has since spread to New York and Detroit; there are also smaller "mini faires" in a number of other cities.<br />
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The Bay Area Faire is May 21 and 22. Get your tickets in advance and be in line when the gates open... things get crowded late in the day!El Cotorohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04322608708619004467noreply@blogger.com0