You probably have heard the expression, 'A New York Minute' meaning fast. Here is an 'Internet Minute'. Forgive me because this is a bit long, but thought it might be interesting to show what happens on the internet, every minute of every day. You may not understand all of the terms, but a look at the numbers shows an astounding amount of activity every minute.
According to Shanghai Web Designers, on average, this is what transpires every sixty seconds on the Web.
- Search engine Google answers more that 694,445 queries
- 6,600+ pictures are uploaded to Flickr
- 600 videos, equal to 25 hours of content are uploaded to YouTube
- 695,000 status updates, 79,364 wall posts and 510,040 comments are published on Facebook
- 70 new domains are registered (web sites)
- More than 168 million emails are sent
- 320 new accounts and 98,000 tweets are generated on Twitter
- Thirteen thousand iPhone applications are downloaded
- 20,000 new posts are published on Tumblr
- FireFox web browser is downloaded more than 1,700 times
- 100 accounts are created on LinkedIn
- 40 new questions are asked on YahooAnswers.com
- 100+ questions are asked on Answers.com
- 1 new article is published on Associated Content
- 1 new definition is added on UrbanDictionary.com
- 1,200+ new ads are created on Craigslist
- 370,000+ minutes of voice calls done by Skype (phone alternative) users
Yep, all this activity every minute of every day and some of the content is actually useful and interesting. Now, aren't you glad you only have to deal with my Friday Thoughts summary from all that activity.
Jun 28, 2011
Best Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are a staple for summer holidays and July fourth is no different. There is a web site that has posted what it says are the 20 best hot dogs. LINK Interesting to note that all 20 were packaged dogs. All but a few were beef dogs and most had the casing which produced a crunch when bitten into. Winner was Hebrew National Reduced Fat Beef Franks and the runner up was Nathan's Kosher Premium Beef Franks. Not surprising, Oscar Mayer had seven contenders in the running.
Personally, I find meat market hand made dogs to be ultimately more tasty and flavorful. Also, a bit of pork thrown in adds to the flavor and diversity of taste. The person that thought of adding turkey to hot dogs is just as bad as the person that first added non meat fillers to hot dogs. Blasphemy!
Personally, I find meat market hand made dogs to be ultimately more tasty and flavorful. Also, a bit of pork thrown in adds to the flavor and diversity of taste. The person that thought of adding turkey to hot dogs is just as bad as the person that first added non meat fillers to hot dogs. Blasphemy!
Stephen Collins Foster
July 4 is important to U.S. history and on July 4, 1826, in addition to being the 50th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it was also the date both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died. It was also the birth date of Stephen Collins Foster.
Foster has been often cited as the father of American music and was the pre-eminent songwriter of the 19th century in the United States. He published his first song when he was only 18. His songs remain popular to this day, with such favorites as "Oh! Susanna," "Camptown Races," "Old Folks at Home" (known as "Swanee River"), "My Old Kentucky Home," and "Beautiful Dreamer." Foster was born and lived in what is now Pittsburgh (Lawrenceville). Doo Dah, Doo Dah!
Foster has been often cited as the father of American music and was the pre-eminent songwriter of the 19th century in the United States. He published his first song when he was only 18. His songs remain popular to this day, with such favorites as "Oh! Susanna," "Camptown Races," "Old Folks at Home" (known as "Swanee River"), "My Old Kentucky Home," and "Beautiful Dreamer." Foster was born and lived in what is now Pittsburgh (Lawrenceville). Doo Dah, Doo Dah!
Duct Tape and Warts
A study was conducted by a military pediatric clinic in Cincinnati hospital a few years ago and the results showed that duct tape was more effective than cryotherapy (freezing) warts.
A total of 51 patients (age range, 3-22 years) completed the study. Patients were randomized using computer-generated codes to receive either cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen applied to each wart for 10 seconds every 2-3 weeks) for a maximum of 6 treatments or duct tape occlusion (applied directly to the wart) for a maximum of 2 months. Patients had their warts measured at baseline and with return visits.
Of the 51 patients completing the study, 26 (51%) were treated with duct tape, and 25 (49%) were treated with cryotherapy. Twenty-two patients (85%) in the duct tape arm vs 15 patients (60%) enrolled in the cryotherapy arm had complete resolution of their warts. The majority of warts that responded to either therapy did so within the first month of treatment. The results showed that duct tape therapy was significantly more effective than cryotherapy for treatment of the common wart. Hopefully the warts were on parts of the body that were able to be covered. Am sure some enterprising soul will come out with flesh colored duct tape and charge twice as much, because it is 'medical'.
A total of 51 patients (age range, 3-22 years) completed the study. Patients were randomized using computer-generated codes to receive either cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen applied to each wart for 10 seconds every 2-3 weeks) for a maximum of 6 treatments or duct tape occlusion (applied directly to the wart) for a maximum of 2 months. Patients had their warts measured at baseline and with return visits.
Of the 51 patients completing the study, 26 (51%) were treated with duct tape, and 25 (49%) were treated with cryotherapy. Twenty-two patients (85%) in the duct tape arm vs 15 patients (60%) enrolled in the cryotherapy arm had complete resolution of their warts. The majority of warts that responded to either therapy did so within the first month of treatment. The results showed that duct tape therapy was significantly more effective than cryotherapy for treatment of the common wart. Hopefully the warts were on parts of the body that were able to be covered. Am sure some enterprising soul will come out with flesh colored duct tape and charge twice as much, because it is 'medical'.
Jun 24, 2011
Happy Friday
May you always have Love to Share, Health to Spare, and Friends who Care.
With love, health, and friends I always have a Happy Friday!
With love, health, and friends I always have a Happy Friday!
Cola Facts
Coke makes so many different beverages that if you drank one per day, it would take you over 9 years to try them all. Coca-Cola has more than 3,500 beverages (and 500 brands), spanning from sodas to energy drinks to soy-based drinks and water. It sells more than 1000 kinds of juice drinks, including: Simply, Minute Maid, Fruitopia, Hi-C, Fuze and Odwalla
Pepsi vs, Coke - Although Coca-Cola revenue was 38% less than PepsiCo's last year, Coke generated more in soft drink revenue -- around $28 billion vs. $12 billion
Pepsi owns non-drink brands like Frito-Lays and Quaker Oats.
There are 33 non-alcoholic brands that generate over $1 billion in revenue. Coca-Cola owns 15 of them
Pepsi vs, Coke - Although Coca-Cola revenue was 38% less than PepsiCo's last year, Coke generated more in soft drink revenue -- around $28 billion vs. $12 billion
Pepsi owns non-drink brands like Frito-Lays and Quaker Oats.
There are 33 non-alcoholic brands that generate over $1 billion in revenue. Coca-Cola owns 15 of them
Origin of French Toast
Contrary to the name, French toast was not invented in France, in fact, it was invented before there was a France.
Bread has been a staple food for most cultures since food first began being prepared. Soaking bread was a way to make stale bread a bit more palatable, like gravy bread, bread pudding, and other recipes. Soaking stale bread in milk and egg and then cooking it is just another variation of the theme.
The earliest reference for 'French' bread dates back to 4th century Rome. Romans would take bread and soak it in a milk and egg mixture and cook it, typically frying it in oil or butter, much as it is still prepared.
Bread has been a staple food for most cultures since food first began being prepared. Soaking bread was a way to make stale bread a bit more palatable, like gravy bread, bread pudding, and other recipes. Soaking stale bread in milk and egg and then cooking it is just another variation of the theme.
The earliest reference for 'French' bread dates back to 4th century Rome. Romans would take bread and soak it in a milk and egg mixture and cook it, typically frying it in oil or butter, much as it is still prepared.
Ten Uses for Coffee Grounds
Dry them out on a cookie sheet and then put them in a bowl in your refrigerator or freezer, or rub them on your hands to get rid of food prep smells.
Airplane attendants have used bags of unused coffee grounds in restrooms on planes to help neutralize odors. This also works in kitchen cabinets. Just place some grounds on a plate and stick in the cabinet.
By steeping grounds in hot water, you can make brown dye for fabric, paper and even Easter eggs.You can even apply steeped grounds liquid to furniture scratches with a Q-tip.
Because they are slightly abrasive, grounds can be used as a scouring agent for greasy and grimy stain-resistant objects.
To keep kitty from using the garden as her personal powder room, sprinkle grounds mixed with orange peels around your plants.
Before you clean out the fireplace, toss wet coffee grounds over the ashes to keep the ash dust under control.
Airplane attendants have used bags of unused coffee grounds in restrooms on planes to help neutralize odors. This also works in kitchen cabinets. Just place some grounds on a plate and stick in the cabinet.
Plants such as rosebushes, azaleas, rhododendrons, evergreen and camellias that prefer acidic soils will appreciate the leftovers from your morning cup. Also, grounds can add nutrients to your compost pile.
Sprinkle old grounds around places you don’t want ants, or on the ant piles themselves. The little buggers will move on or stay away. Used grounds are also said to repel snails and slugs.By steeping grounds in hot water, you can make brown dye for fabric, paper and even Easter eggs.You can even apply steeped grounds liquid to furniture scratches with a Q-tip.
Because they are slightly abrasive, grounds can be used as a scouring agent for greasy and grimy stain-resistant objects.
To keep kitty from using the garden as her personal powder room, sprinkle grounds mixed with orange peels around your plants.
Before you clean out the fireplace, toss wet coffee grounds over the ashes to keep the ash dust under control.
Five Tire Facts
Charles Goodyear invented vulcanized rubber in 1844 that was later used for tires. (Rubber bands were invented the next year, 1845).
John Dunlop invented the air-filled, pneumatic tires, in 1888 for bicycles.
André Michelin was the first person to use pneumatic tires on an automobile in 1895.
In 1911, Philip Strauss invented the first combination tire and air filled inner tube.
P.W. Litchfield of the Goodyear Tire Company patented the first tubeless tire in 1903, but it was never commercially exploited until 1954 on a Packard. Interesting that during the past 160 years, we have not been able to find a more economic substitute, that never goes flat. BTW - the name "rubber" comes from the use of the natural substance as a pencil eraser (invented in 1770) that could “rub out” pencil marks and is the reason that it was then re-named “rubber.”
John Dunlop invented the air-filled, pneumatic tires, in 1888 for bicycles.
André Michelin was the first person to use pneumatic tires on an automobile in 1895.
In 1911, Philip Strauss invented the first combination tire and air filled inner tube.
P.W. Litchfield of the Goodyear Tire Company patented the first tubeless tire in 1903, but it was never commercially exploited until 1954 on a Packard. Interesting that during the past 160 years, we have not been able to find a more economic substitute, that never goes flat. BTW - the name "rubber" comes from the use of the natural substance as a pencil eraser (invented in 1770) that could “rub out” pencil marks and is the reason that it was then re-named “rubber.”
Car Options
There is an option for BMW's Mini Cooper that will tell you how long your convertible top has been down. It is called the openometer and it keeps track of the minutes and hours that you have your top down. At the other end of the spectrum, the Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe has a feature that creates the illusion of a convertible at night. Hand sewn into the headlining are 1600 fiber optic lights that create the illusion of a starry night overhead.
Jun 21, 2011
Google Voice and Image Search
Two very cool new ways to make your life easier while searching. For Google Voice Search, click on the microphone icon to the right of the search box and start speaking. For Google Image Search, you can use a photo from the web, from your PC, or scan a photo in. To use this, you need to click on 'images' while on the Google page, then click on the little Camera icon on the right of the search bar. It will provide any information it can find, such as location, history, or whatever.
I used voice and it works as well or better than typing, and there were no mistyped words. Tried images and had interesting results. First used a photo of myself and it found many pictures with the same pose and coloring, but the people did not look similar and it did not find any pictures of me, although there are many on the web. Next I tried a picture of a church and it found similar colored pictures and many buildings, but also showed pictures of beaches, people with camels, etc. Next, I tried a logo, using the IBM logo. It immediately came up with 'best guess' and guessed IBM logo. It then gave history, company facts, Wikipedia info, and a thousand other results.
Bottom line, Google voice is easy, fun, and works if you have a mic on your PC (most laptops and all phones (duh) have a mic built in). Google image is not yet ready for prime time, except in limited situations, such as finding info on famous locations, buildings, logos, etc. Google Image is available now , but Voice is not available to the whole web yet. You will know when you can use it, by looking for the microphone icon in the search bar.
I used voice and it works as well or better than typing, and there were no mistyped words. Tried images and had interesting results. First used a photo of myself and it found many pictures with the same pose and coloring, but the people did not look similar and it did not find any pictures of me, although there are many on the web. Next I tried a picture of a church and it found similar colored pictures and many buildings, but also showed pictures of beaches, people with camels, etc. Next, I tried a logo, using the IBM logo. It immediately came up with 'best guess' and guessed IBM logo. It then gave history, company facts, Wikipedia info, and a thousand other results.
Bottom line, Google voice is easy, fun, and works if you have a mic on your PC (most laptops and all phones (duh) have a mic built in). Google image is not yet ready for prime time, except in limited situations, such as finding info on famous locations, buildings, logos, etc. Google Image is available now , but Voice is not available to the whole web yet. You will know when you can use it, by looking for the microphone icon in the search bar.
Sleeping Bag Bed
For those who do not like to get up and make the bed every day, how about a sleeping bag bed. Just zip it up and you are done. Makes me wonder, why didn't I think of that.
What's in a Name
In 1946, Earl Tupper introduced plastic storage ware with airtight seals patterned after the inverted rim on a can of paint, which prevented food from drying out, wilting, or losing its flavor. Despite their breakthrough nature, the products didn't sell well in retail outlets, primarily because consumers needed demonstrations in order to see how they worked. In response, the first Tupperware Home Party was held in 1948.
Origin of Bacon
A friend of mine, Sherri Moore asked me where that funny word came from, so it sent me crawling around the web for an answer, beginning with the online etymology dictionary. Records of bacon, by its many names go back to 1500BC. The word we use derives originally from the Old High German “bacho”, meaning “buttock”, which derived from the Proto-Germanic “backoz”, meaning “back.” By the 14th century, turned up in Old French as “bacun”, meaning “back meat”. By the 16th century, it came into Middle English as “bacoun”, which referred to all cured pork, not just the back meat. Lately, aficionados have been calling it 'nature's candy'.
American Bacon, or “streaky bacon” as the Brits call it, is usually cut from the fatty sides of a pig’s belly. Canadian Bacon, known as “back bacon” is made up of the tender loins located on the back of pigs. Guess that means they are calling it 'back back meat', ay.
Bacon contains a nutrient called choline which has been shown to boost memory and muscle control. When deprived of choline in their diet almost 80% of the men and postmenopausal women developed liver or muscle damage. The study also found that young women can supply more choline because pregnancy is a time when the body's demand for choline are highest. Choline is particularly used to support the fetus's developing nervous system. You can also get choline from eggs, liver, milk, chicken, and various nuts. That proves it, bacon and eggs are good for you.
American Bacon, or “streaky bacon” as the Brits call it, is usually cut from the fatty sides of a pig’s belly. Canadian Bacon, known as “back bacon” is made up of the tender loins located on the back of pigs. Guess that means they are calling it 'back back meat', ay.
Bacon contains a nutrient called choline which has been shown to boost memory and muscle control. When deprived of choline in their diet almost 80% of the men and postmenopausal women developed liver or muscle damage. The study also found that young women can supply more choline because pregnancy is a time when the body's demand for choline are highest. Choline is particularly used to support the fetus's developing nervous system. You can also get choline from eggs, liver, milk, chicken, and various nuts. That proves it, bacon and eggs are good for you.
Jun 18, 2011
Happy Friday
A smile starts on the lips, a chuckle comes from the belly, but a good laugh bursts forth from the soul, overflows, and bubbles all around.
I always smile, and chuckle, and laugh when I am having a Happy Friday!
I always smile, and chuckle, and laugh when I am having a Happy Friday!
Father's Day Gift
If anyone has been wondering what to buy me for Father's Day, I have a suggestion from Beafeater. LINK
This grill is 24-carat gold plated and has six-burners, wok burner, convection roasting hood and warming rack, quartz start ignition, vaporizer grid and reflector system It also comes with a lifetime warranty. It is a perfect device for cooking up bacon wrapped, cheese filled hot dogs. Mmmm!
This grill is 24-carat gold plated and has six-burners, wok burner, convection roasting hood and warming rack, quartz start ignition, vaporizer grid and reflector system It also comes with a lifetime warranty. It is a perfect device for cooking up bacon wrapped, cheese filled hot dogs. Mmmm!
Origin of the Bikini
The United States tested the first nuclear bomb in 1946 in the Bikini Atoll, Pacific Ocean. At the same time, another kind of weapon was being tested on other beaches, the bikini.
Louis Réard, a French car engineer who was running his mother's lingerie shop in Paris, introduced two small pieces of clothing and advertised them as "the smallest bathing suit in the world."
Simultaneously, fashion designer Jacques Heim was working on a similar design. He called his the Atome (French for Atom)
Réard named his invention the bikini because of the Bikini Atoll nuclear tests. He thought that everyone would be shocked by the risqué display of curves and belly buttons. The joke at the time was that that the 'bikini split the atom'.
The bikini came to the US in 1947, but was not seen much in public until about 1960. In 1964 Sport’s Illustrated published its first Swimsuit Edition.
The real origin of the Bikini can be found in the above mosaic discovered in Sicily. Its thousands of colored tiles show women in bikinis playing and exercising by the beach.
Incidentally, in 1932, one of the first men's chest-revealing swimsuits, the “Topper,” was introduced. It boasted a detachable top that could be zipped away from the trunk bottoms. Many men chose to go topless in this swimsuit and were arrested for indecent exposure.
Louis Réard, a French car engineer who was running his mother's lingerie shop in Paris, introduced two small pieces of clothing and advertised them as "the smallest bathing suit in the world."
Simultaneously, fashion designer Jacques Heim was working on a similar design. He called his the Atome (French for Atom)
Réard named his invention the bikini because of the Bikini Atoll nuclear tests. He thought that everyone would be shocked by the risqué display of curves and belly buttons. The joke at the time was that that the 'bikini split the atom'.
The bikini came to the US in 1947, but was not seen much in public until about 1960. In 1964 Sport’s Illustrated published its first Swimsuit Edition.
The real origin of the Bikini can be found in the above mosaic discovered in Sicily. Its thousands of colored tiles show women in bikinis playing and exercising by the beach.
Incidentally, in 1932, one of the first men's chest-revealing swimsuits, the “Topper,” was introduced. It boasted a detachable top that could be zipped away from the trunk bottoms. Many men chose to go topless in this swimsuit and were arrested for indecent exposure.
What's In a Name
The Shwayder Trunk Manufacturing Company, founded in 1910 by Jesse Shwayder, made suitcases and briefcases that emphasized durability and strength.
Shwayder named one of his first cases after the biblical figure Samson, a man given supernatural strength by God to defeat his enemies, wrestle lions, and slay entire armies.
It started using the trademarked name "Samsonite" in 1941, and changed his company's name in 1966. Relevant names are easier to dominate the minds of the public, than family names.
Shwayder named one of his first cases after the biblical figure Samson, a man given supernatural strength by God to defeat his enemies, wrestle lions, and slay entire armies.
It started using the trademarked name "Samsonite" in 1941, and changed his company's name in 1966. Relevant names are easier to dominate the minds of the public, than family names.
Seven US Post Office Facts
Did you know that the amount of first class mail through the US Post Office has been less than junk mail since 2005.
The Post Office cannot lay off staff because union contracts prohibit layoffs.
It lost $20 billion since 2007.
Eighty percent of Post Offices lose money each year.
Federal law forbids closing post offices for solely economic reasons.
FedEx spends 43% of its budget on staff and the Post Office spends 80% on staff.
More than 47% of all mail does not go through the Post Office, but to competitors.
The Post Office cannot lay off staff because union contracts prohibit layoffs.
It lost $20 billion since 2007.
Eighty percent of Post Offices lose money each year.
Federal law forbids closing post offices for solely economic reasons.
FedEx spends 43% of its budget on staff and the Post Office spends 80% on staff.
More than 47% of all mail does not go through the Post Office, but to competitors.
Jun 16, 2011
History of TP in the USA
The first product designed specifically to wipe one’s behind was invented in 1857 by a New Yorker named Joseph Gayetty, who sold boxes of individual sheets infused with aloe. It was a difficult sell and he didn't exactly wipe out the competition as Americans still had the free Sears catalog, as well as other free alternatives.
In 1890, the Scott brothers came up with toilet paper on a roll, which they mainly marketed to hotels and drugstores. It was still a difficult sell and many were reluctant to go out and order something so personal. They managed to cling on and are still selling their product today.
As the 1900s began, more homes included inside flush toilets. That is when greater acceptance came for toilet paper. Indoor plumbing did not do well with catalog paper or other heavier alternatives, like leaves, etc. People required a product that could be flushed away with minimal clogging or damage to the pipes and catalog paper, corncobs, and moss did not flush well. Toilet paper became an alternative that still works.
The United States spends more than $6 billion a year on toilet tissue, more than any other nation in the world. Maybe someone can invent a way to turn junk mail into toilet paper and it would at least have some value.
In 1890, the Scott brothers came up with toilet paper on a roll, which they mainly marketed to hotels and drugstores. It was still a difficult sell and many were reluctant to go out and order something so personal. They managed to cling on and are still selling their product today.
As the 1900s began, more homes included inside flush toilets. That is when greater acceptance came for toilet paper. Indoor plumbing did not do well with catalog paper or other heavier alternatives, like leaves, etc. People required a product that could be flushed away with minimal clogging or damage to the pipes and catalog paper, corncobs, and moss did not flush well. Toilet paper became an alternative that still works.
The United States spends more than $6 billion a year on toilet tissue, more than any other nation in the world. Maybe someone can invent a way to turn junk mail into toilet paper and it would at least have some value.
RCA and NBC
On June 17 in 1941, WNBT-TV, channel 4 in New York City, was granted the first construction permit to operate a commercial TV station in the United States. WNBT signed on the air on July 1, 1941.
It was owned by Radio Corporation of America (RCA) and later changed its call letters to WRCA. As RCA developed the NBC Television Network and, especially, TV in ‘living’ color in the early 1950s, WRCA, as well as its TV counterpart in Los Angeles, KRCA-TV 4 (channel 4), changed call letters once again. The station became WNBC-TV. On the west coast, KRCA was changed to KNBC-TV.
Both stations remain the flagships of NBC television and are wholly-owned subsidiaries of the television network.
It was owned by Radio Corporation of America (RCA) and later changed its call letters to WRCA. As RCA developed the NBC Television Network and, especially, TV in ‘living’ color in the early 1950s, WRCA, as well as its TV counterpart in Los Angeles, KRCA-TV 4 (channel 4), changed call letters once again. The station became WNBC-TV. On the west coast, KRCA was changed to KNBC-TV.
Both stations remain the flagships of NBC television and are wholly-owned subsidiaries of the television network.
Charles Dickens
He was the author of numerous classics including Oliver Twist, A Tale of Two Cities, and A Christmas Carol. He attended elementary school until his life took a twist of its own when his father was imprisoned for debt. At age 12, he left school and began working ten-hour days in a boot-blacking factory. Dickens later worked as a law clerk and a court stenographer.
At age 22, he became a journalist, reporting parliamentary debate and covering election campaigns for a newspaper. His first collection of stories, Sketches by Boz (Boz was his nickname), was published in 1836 and led to his first novel, The Pickwick Papers, in March 1836.
At age 22, he became a journalist, reporting parliamentary debate and covering election campaigns for a newspaper. His first collection of stories, Sketches by Boz (Boz was his nickname), was published in 1836 and led to his first novel, The Pickwick Papers, in March 1836.
League of Nations, United Nations, NATO, SCO
The League of Nations was formed after World War I (1914-1919) and was dissolved by the beginning of World War II (1939). It was an intergovernmental organization founded as a result of the Paris Peace Conference that ended World War I, and it was the precursor to the United Nations.
The League was the first permanent international security organization whose principal mission was to maintain world peace. It had 58 members. The League's primary goals included preventing war through collective security, disarmament, and settling international disputes through negotiation and arbitration. Germany, under Hitler, withdrew from the League and was followed by other nations. WWII showed that the League had failed its primary purpose, which was to avoid a future world war.
The name "United Nations" was devised by US president Franklin D. Roosevelt following World War II and set up as another world organization for preventing future wars. The United Nations officially came into existence in October 1945, when the Atlantic Charter had been ratified by China, France, USSR, UK, and a majority of other signatories. It has 192 members. The main purposes of the United Nations are to facilitate cooperation in international law, international security, human rights, social progress and accomplish world peace.
North Atlantic Treaty Organization or NATO, also called the North Atlantic Alliance, is an intergovernmental military alliance based on the North Atlantic Treaty which was signed on 4 April 1949. The organization constitutes a system of collective defense where its members agree to mutual defense in response to an attack by any external party. It has 28 members. The Korean War galvanized the member states, and an integrated military structure was built up under the direction of two US supreme commanders.
The combined military spending of all NATO members constitutes over 70% of the world's defense spending. The United States accounts for 43% of the total military spending of the world and the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy account for another 15%.
The six-member Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was set up in 2001 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to address religious extremism and border security in Central Asia, and as a security counterweight to NATO that would allow Russia and China to rival US influence in Asia. It is now also looking to cooperate at an economic level. Its membership includes the ex-Soviet Central Asian states and with India, Iran, Mongolia and Pakistan attending meetings as observers. Its summits bring together an eclectic gathering of world leaders. In a recent summit declaration signed by all the member states, the organization also attacked missile defense programs in another apparent dig at the United States.
According to Defense Secretary Gates this past week, NATO may have a dim future and may no longer be worth the cost to the US.
The League was the first permanent international security organization whose principal mission was to maintain world peace. It had 58 members. The League's primary goals included preventing war through collective security, disarmament, and settling international disputes through negotiation and arbitration. Germany, under Hitler, withdrew from the League and was followed by other nations. WWII showed that the League had failed its primary purpose, which was to avoid a future world war.
The name "United Nations" was devised by US president Franklin D. Roosevelt following World War II and set up as another world organization for preventing future wars. The United Nations officially came into existence in October 1945, when the Atlantic Charter had been ratified by China, France, USSR, UK, and a majority of other signatories. It has 192 members. The main purposes of the United Nations are to facilitate cooperation in international law, international security, human rights, social progress and accomplish world peace.
North Atlantic Treaty Organization or NATO, also called the North Atlantic Alliance, is an intergovernmental military alliance based on the North Atlantic Treaty which was signed on 4 April 1949. The organization constitutes a system of collective defense where its members agree to mutual defense in response to an attack by any external party. It has 28 members. The Korean War galvanized the member states, and an integrated military structure was built up under the direction of two US supreme commanders.
The combined military spending of all NATO members constitutes over 70% of the world's defense spending. The United States accounts for 43% of the total military spending of the world and the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy account for another 15%.
The six-member Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was set up in 2001 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to address religious extremism and border security in Central Asia, and as a security counterweight to NATO that would allow Russia and China to rival US influence in Asia. It is now also looking to cooperate at an economic level. Its membership includes the ex-Soviet Central Asian states and with India, Iran, Mongolia and Pakistan attending meetings as observers. Its summits bring together an eclectic gathering of world leaders. In a recent summit declaration signed by all the member states, the organization also attacked missile defense programs in another apparent dig at the United States.
According to Defense Secretary Gates this past week, NATO may have a dim future and may no longer be worth the cost to the US.
Jun 10, 2011
Happy Friday
Heal the past, live the present, dream the future.
I am healed from last week and living today as I dream about having another Happy Friday!
I am healed from last week and living today as I dream about having another Happy Friday!
Facebook Faces
Did you know Facebook has a feature called 'Facial Recognition' that allows people to tag photos that may contain your face, without your permission? It has been around for a while and this feature is turned on automatically. If you like to be tagged in photos, enjoy. If not, to turn it off:
1 Go to the "Account" tab in the top right hand corner
2 Click on "Privacy settings"
3 Click "Customize settings"
4 Scroll down to "Things others share"
5 Click "Edit settings" next to "Suggest photos of me to friends"
6 Choose "Disable" or "Enable" from the drop down
1 Go to the "Account" tab in the top right hand corner
2 Click on "Privacy settings"
3 Click "Customize settings"
4 Scroll down to "Things others share"
5 Click "Edit settings" next to "Suggest photos of me to friends"
6 Choose "Disable" or "Enable" from the drop down
China Consumes
China consumes 53% of the world's cement. It consumes 48% of the world's iron ore and consumes 47% of the world's coal (more than the rest of the world combined). China is well ahead of the US in the consumption of television sets, refrigerators, and mobile phones. China has become the world's second largest luxury goods consumer with 27.5% of the world's luxury goods. It also consumes 25% of the world's beer.
Jun 9, 2011
Nanotechnology and Nanoparticles
These tiny little things are used in all sorts of things we never hear about, but are changing our lives. Nanotechnology is a broad term that covers many areas of science, research, and technology. In its most basic form, it can be described as working with things that are small. Things so tiny that they can't be seen with standard microscopes. The same stuff that has always been there, but we just couldn't see it.
Here is a comparison - A nanoparticle size is compared to an ant as an ant is compared to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
More relative sizes: (nm is nanometer)
The head of a pin 1,000,000 nm across You can see these with your eyes unaided
The page of a book 100,000 nm thick
A human hair 40,000 nm thick
A red blood cell 7,000 nm across You can see these using a light microscope
DNA molecule 2 nm wide
Most atoms 0.1–0.2 nm
During the next 20 years, nanotechnology will touch the life of nearly every person on the planet. Below is a guide to uses for some of these nano wonders.
Quantum dots - are made of semiconducting molecules, they glow fluorescently and are great at absorbing light. Used for more efficient solar cells and microscopy dyes for cell biology research.
Silica - silicon dioxide nanoparticles enable so-called shear thickening fluid to become stronger on impact. Used for stab-resistant Kevlar for body armor.
Zinc oxide - tiny crystals stop UV radiation and are toxic to microscopic life. Used for UV-resistant packaging, sunscreen, and paint and textiles that inhibit bacteria and fungi.
Nano barcodes - bits of various metals linked into tiny wires make good tags for microscopic things. Used for tracking DNA and cells.
Lithium iron phosphate - particles organize themselves into an anode, which allows batteries to charge and deliver power extremely quickly. Used for electric cars, power tools.
Iron oxide - mini magnets can stick to certain chemicals. Used for steering cancer drugs and genes to targets in the body while minimizing collateral damage. Sometimes smaller is better.
Here is a comparison - A nanoparticle size is compared to an ant as an ant is compared to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
More relative sizes: (nm is nanometer)
The head of a pin 1,000,000 nm across You can see these with your eyes unaided
The page of a book 100,000 nm thick
A human hair 40,000 nm thick
A red blood cell 7,000 nm across You can see these using a light microscope
DNA molecule 2 nm wide
Most atoms 0.1–0.2 nm
During the next 20 years, nanotechnology will touch the life of nearly every person on the planet. Below is a guide to uses for some of these nano wonders.
Quantum dots - are made of semiconducting molecules, they glow fluorescently and are great at absorbing light. Used for more efficient solar cells and microscopy dyes for cell biology research.
Silica - silicon dioxide nanoparticles enable so-called shear thickening fluid to become stronger on impact. Used for stab-resistant Kevlar for body armor.
Zinc oxide - tiny crystals stop UV radiation and are toxic to microscopic life. Used for UV-resistant packaging, sunscreen, and paint and textiles that inhibit bacteria and fungi.
Nano barcodes - bits of various metals linked into tiny wires make good tags for microscopic things. Used for tracking DNA and cells.
Lithium iron phosphate - particles organize themselves into an anode, which allows batteries to charge and deliver power extremely quickly. Used for electric cars, power tools.
Iron oxide - mini magnets can stick to certain chemicals. Used for steering cancer drugs and genes to targets in the body while minimizing collateral damage. Sometimes smaller is better.
Eight 7-Eleven Facts
Now for something bigger.
7-Eleven is operated under the Seven-Eleven Japan Co. Ltd.
US headquarters is in Dallas, Texas.
The busiest location Is in Samutprakarn, Thailand.
The largest drink is sells is the Team Gulp at 128 ounces.
It has 39,000 stores globally (more than McDonalds).
It released two propriety wines, Yosemite Road brand, in 2009.
7-Eleven's birthday is on July 11.
All of the stores originally operated from 7 a.m. to 11.p.m.
7-Eleven is operated under the Seven-Eleven Japan Co. Ltd.
US headquarters is in Dallas, Texas.
The busiest location Is in Samutprakarn, Thailand.
The largest drink is sells is the Team Gulp at 128 ounces.
It has 39,000 stores globally (more than McDonalds).
It released two propriety wines, Yosemite Road brand, in 2009.
7-Eleven's birthday is on July 11.
All of the stores originally operated from 7 a.m. to 11.p.m.
Little Rules of Life
Sing in the shower.
Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated.
Watch a sunrise at least once a year.
Leave the toilet seat in the down position.
Never refuse homemade brownies.
Strive for excellence, not perfection.
Plant a tree on your birthday.
Learn 3 clean jokes.
Return borrowed vehicles with the gas tank full.
Compliment 3 people every day.
Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.
Leave everything a little better than you found it.
Keep it simple.
Think big thoughts but relish small pleasures.
Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
Floss your teeth.
Ask for a raise when you think you've earned it.
Overtip breakfast waitresses.
Be forgiving of yourself and others.
Say, "Thank you" a lot.
Say, "Please" a lot.
Avoid negative people.
Buy whatever kids are selling on card tables in their front yards.
Wear polished shoes.
Remember other people's birthdays.
Commit yourself to constant improvement.
Carry jumper cables in your truck.
Have a firm handshake.
Send lots of Valentine cards.
Sign them, "Someone who thinks you're terrific."
Look people in the eye.
Be the first to say hello.
Use the good silver.
Return all things you borrow.
Make new friends, but cherish the old ones.
Keep a few secrets.
Sing in a choir.
Plant flowers every spring.
Have a dog.
Always accept an outstretched hand.
Stop blaming others.
Take responsibility for every area of your life.
Wave at kids on school busses.
Be there when people need you.
Feed a stranger's expired parking meter.
Don't expect life to be fair.
Never underestimate the power of love.
Drink champagne for no reason at all.
Live your life as an exclamation, not an explanation.
Don't be afraid to say, "I made a mistake."
Don't be afraid to say, "I don't know."
Compliment even small improvements.
Keep your promises no matter what.
Marry for love.
Rekindle old friendships.
Count your blessings.
Call your mother.
by H. Jackson Brown Jr.
Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated.
Watch a sunrise at least once a year.
Leave the toilet seat in the down position.
Never refuse homemade brownies.
Strive for excellence, not perfection.
Plant a tree on your birthday.
Learn 3 clean jokes.
Return borrowed vehicles with the gas tank full.
Compliment 3 people every day.
Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.
Leave everything a little better than you found it.
Keep it simple.
Think big thoughts but relish small pleasures.
Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
Floss your teeth.
Ask for a raise when you think you've earned it.
Overtip breakfast waitresses.
Be forgiving of yourself and others.
Say, "Thank you" a lot.
Say, "Please" a lot.
Avoid negative people.
Buy whatever kids are selling on card tables in their front yards.
Wear polished shoes.
Remember other people's birthdays.
Commit yourself to constant improvement.
Carry jumper cables in your truck.
Have a firm handshake.
Send lots of Valentine cards.
Sign them, "Someone who thinks you're terrific."
Look people in the eye.
Be the first to say hello.
Use the good silver.
Return all things you borrow.
Make new friends, but cherish the old ones.
Keep a few secrets.
Sing in a choir.
Plant flowers every spring.
Have a dog.
Always accept an outstretched hand.
Stop blaming others.
Take responsibility for every area of your life.
Wave at kids on school busses.
Be there when people need you.
Feed a stranger's expired parking meter.
Don't expect life to be fair.
Never underestimate the power of love.
Drink champagne for no reason at all.
Live your life as an exclamation, not an explanation.
Don't be afraid to say, "I made a mistake."
Don't be afraid to say, "I don't know."
Compliment even small improvements.
Keep your promises no matter what.
Marry for love.
Rekindle old friendships.
Count your blessings.
Call your mother.
by H. Jackson Brown Jr.
Jun 8, 2011
FDA Definitions
Food labels were once meant to make things perfectly clear, so we could make good food buying decisions. However, like most governmental regulations absolute rules become quickly obfuscated. The "per serving" is the thing to watch as many manufacturers make serving size humorously low to get a better rating.
"Low Fat" can mean there's up to 3 grams of fat per serving. "Fat Free" can have 0.5 grams and still count.
"Light" can mean a number of things, from the literal (the color) to the more concrete (50% the fat of plain-label), but it can also be used to mean simply "less" calories, without any actual figures. "Low Calorie," on the other hand, must have 40 calories or less per serving, and "Fewer Calories" actually means the product must have at least 25% less calories per serving.
The term "Light" used on package labeling has absolutely nothing to do with fat, sugar, or anything else. If a product "has been a long history of use of the term," then it can keep using it regardless of nutritional content.
Any product with "organic" on its packaging or display materials must contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients. "100 Percent Organic" products must show an ingredient list, the name and address of the handler (bottler, distributor, importer, manufacturer, packer, processor) of the finished product, and the name and seal of the organic certifier. These products should contain no chemicals, additives, synthetics, pesticides or genetically engineered substances.
"USDA Organic" products must contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients. The label must contain a list that identifies the organic, as well as the non-organic, ingredients in the product, and the name of the organic certifier.
"Made With Organic" products must contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients. The label must contain a list that identifies the organic, as well as the non-organic, ingredients in the product, along with the name of the organic certifier.
"Low Fat" can mean there's up to 3 grams of fat per serving. "Fat Free" can have 0.5 grams and still count.
"Light" can mean a number of things, from the literal (the color) to the more concrete (50% the fat of plain-label), but it can also be used to mean simply "less" calories, without any actual figures. "Low Calorie," on the other hand, must have 40 calories or less per serving, and "Fewer Calories" actually means the product must have at least 25% less calories per serving.
The term "Light" used on package labeling has absolutely nothing to do with fat, sugar, or anything else. If a product "has been a long history of use of the term," then it can keep using it regardless of nutritional content.
Any product with "organic" on its packaging or display materials must contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients. "100 Percent Organic" products must show an ingredient list, the name and address of the handler (bottler, distributor, importer, manufacturer, packer, processor) of the finished product, and the name and seal of the organic certifier. These products should contain no chemicals, additives, synthetics, pesticides or genetically engineered substances.
"USDA Organic" products must contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients. The label must contain a list that identifies the organic, as well as the non-organic, ingredients in the product, and the name of the organic certifier.
"Made With Organic" products must contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients. The label must contain a list that identifies the organic, as well as the non-organic, ingredients in the product, along with the name of the organic certifier.
What's in a Name
George Eastman, a high school dropout and the founder of Kodak loved the letter "K." He tested several combinations of words starting and ending with "K" while trying to come up with a name for his camera and film company name. Kodak was registered as a trademark in 1888 and the Eastman Kodak company was founded in 1892. Eastman believed the right name would be memorable, would not resemble anything else, and could not be mispronounced. He decided it must have the letter "K" because he believed the letter was strong and incisive. It was the first company to put its name and look into a symbol.
He started out making glass photographic plates and moved into paper film, then to make a camera, "As convenient as a pencil" so he could sell the film. The original building where he started is still part of the world headquarters in Rochester, New York. A maze of buildings, spanning blocks, that are all connected to each other. I became lost in those buildings more than a few times while consulting with Kodak.
He started out making glass photographic plates and moved into paper film, then to make a camera, "As convenient as a pencil" so he could sell the film. The original building where he started is still part of the world headquarters in Rochester, New York. A maze of buildings, spanning blocks, that are all connected to each other. I became lost in those buildings more than a few times while consulting with Kodak.
Bottled Water
Here is an interesting video about bottled water. It is not kind to bottled water producers. One fact says that it takes enough oil to produce the bottles that could be used to make gas to fuel a million cars a year. One of the few times water is not good for the environment. LINK
Benjamin Franklin
He was a politician, diplomat, author, printer, publisher, scientist, inventor, founding father, and coauthor and cosigner of the Declaration of Independence. One thing he was not was a high school graduate.
Franklin was the fifteenth child and youngest son in a family of 20. He spent two years at the Boston Latin School before dropping out at age ten and going to work for his father, and then his brother, as a printer.
He once proposed the turkey as the national symbol, but it lost to the American Bald Eagle. He wrote to his daughter, “For my own part I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral Character. He does not get his Living honestly." How prescient he was. Oh, and he wore funny clothes.
Franklin was the fifteenth child and youngest son in a family of 20. He spent two years at the Boston Latin School before dropping out at age ten and going to work for his father, and then his brother, as a printer.
He once proposed the turkey as the national symbol, but it lost to the American Bald Eagle. He wrote to his daughter, “For my own part I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral Character. He does not get his Living honestly." How prescient he was. Oh, and he wore funny clothes.
Jun 7, 2011
Ear Ring History
Ear piercing is one of the oldest known forms of body modification, with artistic and written references from cultures around the world dating. Early evidence of earrings worn by men can be seen in archeological evidence from Persepolis in ancient Persia (Iran). The carved images of soldiers of the Persian Empire, displayed on surviving walls of the palace, show them wearing an ear ring.
Other early evidence of earring wearing is evident in the Biblical record. In Exodus 32:1-4, it is written that while Moses was up on Mount Sinai, the Israelites demanded that Aaron make a god for them. He commanded them to bring their sons' and daughters' earrings to him in order that he might comply with their demand.
Among sailors, a pierced earlobe was a symbol that the wearer had sailed around the world or had crossed the equator. In addition, it is believed that a gold earring was worn by sailors in payment for a proper burial in the event they drowned at sea and their bodies washed up on shore. It was hoped that the earring would serve as payment for "a proper christian burial".
Pierced ears were popular in the United States through the early 1900s, then fell into disfavor among women due to the rising popularity of clip-on earrings.
In India, nearly all the girls and some boys get their ears pierced in a religious ceremony before they are about 5 years old. Infants may get their ears pierced as early as several days after their birth. Similar customs are practiced in other Southeast Asian countries, although traditionally, most males wait to get their ears pierced until they have reached young adulthood.
Other early evidence of earring wearing is evident in the Biblical record. In Exodus 32:1-4, it is written that while Moses was up on Mount Sinai, the Israelites demanded that Aaron make a god for them. He commanded them to bring their sons' and daughters' earrings to him in order that he might comply with their demand.
Among sailors, a pierced earlobe was a symbol that the wearer had sailed around the world or had crossed the equator. In addition, it is believed that a gold earring was worn by sailors in payment for a proper burial in the event they drowned at sea and their bodies washed up on shore. It was hoped that the earring would serve as payment for "a proper christian burial".
Pierced ears were popular in the United States through the early 1900s, then fell into disfavor among women due to the rising popularity of clip-on earrings.
In India, nearly all the girls and some boys get their ears pierced in a religious ceremony before they are about 5 years old. Infants may get their ears pierced as early as several days after their birth. Similar customs are practiced in other Southeast Asian countries, although traditionally, most males wait to get their ears pierced until they have reached young adulthood.
Happy Friday June 3
Imagination is stronger than knowledge, dreams are more powerful than facts, and hope always triumphs over experience.
Can you imagine the dreams I have while hoping for a Happy Friday!
Can you imagine the dreams I have while hoping for a Happy Friday!
Hopalong Cassidy
June 5 is the anniversary of the birth of William Boyd, born in 1895. Boyd is known to movie-goers and TV audiences throughout the world as Hopalong Cassidy. During his heyday, millions of fans would turn out to see him in personal appearances. He first played the role of the cowboy hero in the 1935 movie, Hop-a-long Cassidy. The character came from 28 western novels written by Clarence Mulford.
He was one of the few 'good guys' who wore black. In those days most of the good guys wore anything but black and the bad guys wore black. The picture below shows him in character with Dennis Weaver (as Chester B. Goode) James Arness (as Matt Dillon) from Gunsmoke. Weaver passed away in 2006 and Arness passed away last week, June 3, 2011. Arness' brother was Peter Graves from Mission Impossible fame.
Gunsmoke was just beginning as Boyd was retiring and he turned his whole production company over to CBS for that show, so his entire crew would not be put out of work.
Boyd was Hopalong Cassidy in 66 films through 1948 and then he starred as Hopalong in the successful TV series in the 1950s. For over twenty years, children and adults both loved the adventures of Hopalong Cassidy, his horse Topper, and his sidekick played by George ‘Gabby’ Hayes. He ranks up there with Gene Autry and Roy Rogers who made the successful transition from movie westerns to the 'new' television. Back then westerns dominated TV as much as crime shows do now.
Couldn't resist tossing this one in with my brothers and me in my Christmas Hoppy outfit.
He was one of the few 'good guys' who wore black. In those days most of the good guys wore anything but black and the bad guys wore black. The picture below shows him in character with Dennis Weaver (as Chester B. Goode) James Arness (as Matt Dillon) from Gunsmoke. Weaver passed away in 2006 and Arness passed away last week, June 3, 2011. Arness' brother was Peter Graves from Mission Impossible fame.
Gunsmoke was just beginning as Boyd was retiring and he turned his whole production company over to CBS for that show, so his entire crew would not be put out of work.
Boyd was Hopalong Cassidy in 66 films through 1948 and then he starred as Hopalong in the successful TV series in the 1950s. For over twenty years, children and adults both loved the adventures of Hopalong Cassidy, his horse Topper, and his sidekick played by George ‘Gabby’ Hayes. He ranks up there with Gene Autry and Roy Rogers who made the successful transition from movie westerns to the 'new' television. Back then westerns dominated TV as much as crime shows do now.
Couldn't resist tossing this one in with my brothers and me in my Christmas Hoppy outfit.
Deep Throat
This week in 2005, Mark Felt admitted that, while No. 2 man in the FBI, he was "Deep Throat," whose information to Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein on the 1972 Watergate break-in led to U.S. President Richard Nixon's resignation.
Restaurant Coupons
Here is a site that promises to be the one place to go to for local restaurant coupons. LINK It is called bitehunter and will search the web and combine coupons from various sites and make them all available in one place. Bitehunter has been in Beta for a few months in selected cities, but promises to roll out nationally this month, June. Excellent information, including menus with prices, reviews, links, and maps. Might be handy to look for local places even if no coupons are available. While checking the site, I found a restaurant called 5napkinburgers (ten ounce juicy burgers) that I hope comes to Texas soon.
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