On The Fly: Recent Episodes
Patrick Ball
Welcome back to On the Fly! Today, we're exploring something that impacts all of us: Attitude. It serves as our internal compass, guiding how we perceive and engage with the world.
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Welcome back to On the Fly, your dose of literary lightning! Just for fun, let’s continue our study of fictional detectives. Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of crime fiction and the man who practically invented a whole new subgenre: Dashiell Hammett.
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This week, fiction fans, we explore the story of the world's most famous detective – Sherlock Holmes! But to understand Holmes fully, we need to crack the code of his creator, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
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Have you ever had one of those moments where you stumbled upon something incredible, completely by chance? Maybe you found a hidden gem of a restaurant while getting lost or ran into an old friend you haven't seen in years. That, my friends, is the magic of serendipity.
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People often ask me, "You work for a solar company; don’t you have solar on your home?”
Nope!
“With an astonished look, they exclaim, “Why not?”
Here’s the short answer. "I monitor our yearly electricity consumption totals approximately 2,500 kWh per year.”
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Have you had a good laugh recently? Why not? In today’s critical, cynical world of stupid politics, with Trump on the news day after day and protests at many Universities, we need a break from all this strife and tension. I’m here to say we need a good laugh.
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Today, we're soaring across the Pacific Northwest down to sunny California, tracing the fascinating history of the Pacific Northwest–Pacific Southwest Intertie.
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In the era before smartphones, let’s say we’re on a telephone call, and you ask me, “What time is it?” As a five-year-old, I reply, "The big hand is on the two and the little hand on the eight.” What happened?
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Recently, I visited my good friend Billy in Westfield, New Jersey. Among his many other hobbies, Billy is a steam engine enthusiast. He proudly fired up his miniature steam engine and confidently explained its workings, which got me thinking . . .
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Today, we're fresh off a trip to the Scaffolding/Plywood jungle, where we witnessed a phenomenon that will make you rethink your relationship with the humble wall socket. That's right—we're talking about New York City, and it's . . . wait for it —free, ubiquitous electric outlets!
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Celebrating over 260 episodes of On the Fly and the power of dreaming and doing.
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Spring is here! Flowers are blooming, birds are singing . . . and everyone's sniffling? Yes, sir, that's pollen allergies for you. If your eyes are itchy, your nose is running, and you sound like a foghorn, you're not alone. Pollen is pounding your immune system!
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Hey there, young explorers! Have you ever wondered why we hide Easter eggs and then race around to find them? Today, On the Fly, we're going on an “egg-cellent” adventure to discover where this fun tradition hatched!
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Happy St. Patrick's Day to all! And a special toast to our listeners named Patrick, Irish heritage—or not? I’m here to dig into a classic St. Patrick's Day dish (later tonight): corned beef and cabbage. But here's the thing—is it Irish?
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Today, we'll discuss Community Solar in California, a rapidly expanding industry that the CPUC will regulate starting in July 2024.
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With daylight saving time starting tomorrow, we're all about to lose an hour of sleep. But fear not, for I bring you tidings of great joy – we've got a few tips to help you adjust smoothly to Spring Forward.
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Today, we set sail on a sunny adventure with the crew from Cenergy Power. Buckle up, because we're about to dive into Friday’s whale watching adventure in Dana Point, California!
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Baseball – People ask me, why the Cubs? The answer is simple: My Dad was a Cubs fan (everyone called him Doc), and baseball was a big part of my childhood.
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Do you often find it hard to fall asleep because your mind is preoccupied with the tasks you must complete at work, chores you might have forgotten to do around the house, or a missed phone call? In other words, how can one calm their mind and find peace?
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This week, we're serving a fresh take on a sport sweeping the nation – pickleball! It's not just for bored kids in the 60s anymore, folks!
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Today, I'm excited to introduce you to someone who might change your thoughts about podcasts and AI. Meet Gemini.
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“I lived less than three blocks away from A&M studios and didn’t even know what was happening,” Lori said to me while watching the recently released Netflix special “The Greatest Night in Pop” - the documentary of the making of “We Are the World.”
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In more ways than I’m probably aware of, I was lucky to have moved to Los Angeles in 1985, as it introduced me to a comic strip through the Los Angeles Times – Calvin and Hobbes.
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Recently, our commute in California has increased from a local 5-minute drive to an hour-long trip on the California freeways. This made me wonder about the extent of traffic congestion on today's roads. With more cars on the road than ever before, it's no wonder many of them end up stuck in traffic.
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This year, we started a podcast series reviewing books that have influenced my life and management style. I want to introduce you to "The Secret: What Great Leaders Know — And Do" by Ken Blanchard and Mark Miller.
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Recently, while meeting with my primary care physician for an annual physical, he asked, “Do you have any questions?” Yes, "I was wondering what the typical health of your retired patients is. I'm considering retiring myself," I asked –
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The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale is a self-help book that explores the impact of optimism and positive thoughts on your life. Peale emphasizes the influence of one's thoughts on shaping experiences and achieving success. This small book has sold over 5 million copies since it was first published in 1952. I recently purchased a copy from our local Barnes & Noble and reread it because our lives were changing again. Let me explain.
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Merry Christmas - A special holiday reading of At Christmas, by Edgar Guest – narrated by Lori Ball.
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Amidst the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to forget the importance of kindness and respect (manners). However, during this season of celebration, we have the chance to renew our commitment to these values and embody the true spirit of social refinement.
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"The Christmas Song" (commonly subtitled "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire") is a classic holiday tune that Mel Tormé and Bob Wells wrote. It was first penned in 1944 during a sweltering hot summer. Enjoy!
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Experience the magic of Christmas this season with our audio rendition of "Santa’s Toy Shop" (circa 1950). This delightful tale was inspired by the Little Golden Book and illustrated by Walt Disney Studios.
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Little Golden Books were launched in 1942 during World War II. The aim was to produce high-quality children's books at an affordable price (25 cents initially), making them accessible to a broader audience.
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Thanksgiving in America is known for traditions like turkey dinners, football games, and Black Friday sales. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a long-standing tradition that captures millions of hearts.
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"The Man in the Glass" still resonates with readers due to its message about self-reflection, personal integrity, and honest.
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Did you know children have been sending letters to Santa for longer than the United States Postal Service has existed to deliver them? However, today, you’re far more likely to get a response if you include the correct address!
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Have you noticed the number of electric vehicles currently on the market today? But realistically, the electric vehicle (EV) landscape is still in its early stages. According to a recent article in the How-To Geek newsletter, electric vehicles will soon be faster, have extended ranges, and wireless charging capabilities.
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In the halls of academia, Professor Peridot, a man of venerable learning and profound sagacity, found an unexpected companion in Adamas Bontemps—a name as rare as the jewels they endeavor to fathom. Young Mr. Bontemps, a burgeoning gemologist of fervent curiosity, embarked on a journey not merely through the lustrous facets of gemstones but into the intricate tapestry of global intrigue and clandestine enigmas.
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Dr. Vo, a brilliant yet witty electrical engineer, stood before the main breaker box of a massive 1.4 MW-DC solar array that had confounded everyone who had dared to diagnose its persistent issue. It had been six long months of head-scratching and ten failed attempts by others before the desperate call came into Dr. Vo's office.
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In a recent article from the Interesting Facts newsletter, shedding some tears can be one of the best ways to restore your emotional equilibrium. It sure helped me!
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What is Civil Discourse? Respectful conversation, that's it. Introducing Dr. Don Hanley's new blog; join me.
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Are you waiting for a job description? Do you take the initiative to provide outstanding customer service? Who is your customer anyway? Reality check - in business and life as individuals, we are President & CEO of our own personal services corporation - Free Agents.
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Can you identify the device in the photo? Here's a clue: it's the size of your thumbnail and functions as a safety device that shields an electrical circuit from excessive current flow. Let's be safe when working with electricity.
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Bonus Episode - This is the inaugural episode of GIA Education Bi-Monthly Updates, a podcast series launched in 2006 entitled Inside GIA Education.
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In this episode, we review the stark contrast between the historical and modern eras during a recent visit to Las Vegas while attending the RE+ Solar Show at the Sands Convention Center.
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In this episode, we will delve into the inventor of television life, whose legacy has been enshrouded in debate.
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Are you considering giving your home a fresh, new look? Whether you're moving into a new space or simply craving a change, there's no denying the beauty of a well-executed paint job in transforming the ambiance of your living space. Here's my experience.
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Do you typically carry a laptop, tablet, or phone daily? If so, it's likely that you also find yourself having to lug around a cumbersome charger block. Have you ever stopped to consider how these charging blocks actually work?
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On Saturday, August 12, 2023, we attended a Ball family reunion hosted by my aunt Deanna Ball in Fairview, Illinois. I’ll admit this was probably the first reunion I’ve attended in about 50 years. Join me!
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We recently celebrated Lori's birthday at Jeune et Jolie - (Young & Pretty), a local Carlsbad restaurant earning One Michelin Star. What is a Michelin Star?
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Perched on the precipice of tickling enlightenment, a question persists: why, oh why, can't we tickle ourselves? It's a conundrum that's laughed in the face of time, and we're none the wiser. Let's explore!
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Have you ever noticed that some people are more skilled at connecting with others and convincing them of their ideas than most? The secret to their success lies in mastering fundamental skills like empathy, communication, and leadership. Let's revisit Dale Carnegie's timeless guide, "How to Win Friends and Influence People."
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Dateline March 1989 - Surrounded by a city of motor homes that sprung up overnight in the middle of a normally wind-swept California desert, the question on everyone’s mind was, “How will we know when the space shuttle Discovery arrives?”
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Have you noticed the constant background roar of jet engines during a flight? Probably not if someone was trying to comfort a squalling baby in front or behind you. Let's explore ANC technology.
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Do your friends consider you to be a curious person? If that’s the case, what questions do you generally ask? Are they always practical? Could you explain why? Let's explore the concept.
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During a concert by Tommy Emmanuel at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA, on December 14, 2022, we were introduced to Mike Dawes, an exceptionally talented and creative guitarist renowned for his impressive fingerstyle technique.
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As I learn more about the challenges and benefits of renewable energy, I'm convinced that too many people today take electricity for granted - they are addicted. It's not "Where's the beef" It's - "Where's the Power?"
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The Summer Solstice brings the longest day, with sunlight extending in a splendid display. Oh, the sun rises early and lingers late, spreading its golden rays, just wait!
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Do me a favor, walk out your front door, and find the electric meter for your home. Is it digital, or has a dial that rotates (analog)? Here's how you contribute to the Smart Grid.
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Today’s world has a cloud-based computer system that can consolidate knowledge and answer just about anything you choose to ask.
So, the question is, what do you ask? Let's explore the power of ChatGPT.
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Have you ever experienced a giddy feeling of lightheadedness? I’m not talking about an event that calls for a trip to the hospital but rather a delightful moment that fills you with wonder! Join me on an adventure.
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It's possible that your next new car won't have the option to switch between AM and F.M. radio. Many automakers are now choosing to exclude AM radio from their latest models - why?
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The Hollywood sign represents fame, fortune, and glamour people aspire to achieve in the entertainment industry. However, some lesser-known facts about this famous landmark might surprise you.
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We are thrilled to present a unique surprise for this week's podcast. We have composed a special tribute to Cenergy's V-Team in the form of original lyrics to the iconic Beatles song "When I'm 64".
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Last week we examined the resurgence of the LP record. What prompted that episode was visiting our local record shop to see about replacing a turntable cartridge. Well, after a bit of experimentation, I discovered it wasn't my turntable at fault. The problem was with my Harman/Kardon integrated stereo amplifier.
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You may have missed it - Saturday, April 22, 2023, was Record Store Day. It was news to me. By chance, to get a new cartridge for my turntable, I made a trip to our local store (Standards) in Vista, CA. The store was crawling with customers. What's going on? So I had to look it up.
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Welcome to Episode 207 of On the Fly. You may not believe this, but we went live on the Anchor platform (Spotify for Podcasters) three years ago today! Lately, people ask, "So, how many listeners do you have?" "Honestly, I'm not sure; I don't pay attention to the numbers." "Why not?"
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In the introduction, you heard my first piano lesson playing the melody Ode to Joy by Beethoven. Now, I'll admit I love challenging myself and learning new things. In January of this year (2023), I approached Lori and said, "This may sound a little crazy, but I want to learn to play the piano; what do you think?"
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Do you have a favorite author? Let me introduce you to one of mine; you may know him from the book A Walk in the Woods, which was made into a movie in 2015 with Robert Redford, Nick Nolte, and Emma Thompson – his name is Bill Bryson.
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Happy Easter! Today many youngsters and the young at heart will scour their yards for Easter eggs and Jellybeans left by the Easter Bunny. Have you ever wondered just what it takes to make a jelly bean?
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Did you happen to recognize the melody in the introduction? The audio was one of twelve variations for piano of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, composed by Mozart.
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Where do you live? Have you ever entertained the thought that you live near a magical place? No, I'm not talking about Disneyland; I'm referring to your backyard. Learn about the San Diego Safari Park.
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I've been thinking about this milestone 200th episode for a few months now, considering what would be fitting. So, I went back and listened to many of the early episodes of On the Fly. I asked myself these questions, Why a podcast? What did I want to share with others? And who unknowingly had the most significant influence on my life?
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In previous episodes, we’ve discussed the value of having the Notes app on your iPhone. Recently I discovered the following article from Readers Digest that may help you keep those notes private.
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Early dawn breaks in Arizona; with both arms frantically flailing, I grab to catch my hat. An enormous blast of wind snatched it off my head in a split second. Welcome to the Grand Canyon!
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Yes, Baseball is back. Spring training began on February 24, 2023, with a few new rules. Let's face it - it's a game, and don't you adjust the rules when you play a game to suit the players? Major League Baseball did this year for a few, in my opinion, good reasons.
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On Thursday, March 9, 2023 - Top Reads Publishing will host a book signing for Don Hanley at Wildwood Cafe, 116 Civic Center Drive in Vista, CA., from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. If you plan to attend, we need you to RSVP by March 1, 2023. Email Don Hanley or Top Reads Publishing.
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Have you ever wondered where the electricity generated by a PhotoVoltaic (PV) Solar system goes when the system is shut down? Stay tuned for the answer.
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I can't remember a time in my life when the name Disney was not part of my vocabulary. This year, 2023, marks the 100th-anniversary celebration of Disney. And it all started with a man and a mouse.
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Recently I read an article from one of my favorite online newsletters, How-To Geek, that caught my eye, How to turn your Windows PC into a WiFi hotspot. You can click the link in the blog post to review the entire article if you like, but here is a quick summary.
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Are you a reader (listener) concerned with young people's education today? Are we teaching our children to be creative or follow archaic rules handed down through generations? If so, let me introduce you to the author Don Hanley, Ph.D., and his inspiring memoir that we just finished.
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What if I told you - you've had the most precious gift in your possession since birth, yet you’ve never taken the time to open the box? Let's explore your creative imagination.
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Have you ever wondered how New York City got the name The BIG Apple? 🍎 Let's explore together.
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Another hallmark of music is it seduces you into listening again and again, planting a catchy melody and words into your subconscious mind. And as you circumnavigate life, accumulated experiences provide new meaning to what, on the surface, appear to be just words. Let's explore Watching the Wheels.
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Imagine it - 2023! With the advent of streaming content and YouTube TV, you can watch CNN and the celebration in New York with correspondent Anderson Cooper. This year it’s first since the COVID pandemic, the celebration hosted millions in Time Square. Just before The Ball dropped, Chelsea Cutler sang her rendition of John Lennon’s Imagine; this got me thinking.
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On Dec. 6, 2002, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) announced the launch of a pre-enrollment website for customers interested in joining the company’s upcoming Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) pilot program. Learn more!
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If you are convinced this Christmas Santa didn’t get your letter, be sure to address your 2023 letter to the following:
Santa Claus
123 Elf Road
North Pole, 88888
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With Christmas 2022 quickly approaching, I’m reminded that 2014 was about re-inventing myself; I’d asked Santa for a new electric guitar and began dreaming.
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Frosty the Snowman is a 1969 American animated Christmas television (TV) special produced by Rankin/Bass Productions. It’s the first television special featuring the character Frosty the Snowman. Enjoy our 2022 holiday performance.
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In this episode - Keeping Christmas, a poem for the holidays by Henry Van Dyke, read by Lori Ball.
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On Sunday, November 11, 2022, while watching Elton John's return to Dodger Stadium, 47 years later, his Farewell Yellow Brick Road, North American tour, streaming on Disney+, feelings of immense gratitude stirred my soul.
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A Thanksgiving poem by Edgar Albert Guest.
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If the portions Grandma serves are a little skimpier this Thanksgiving, blame inflation.
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Have you ever Googled Yosemite Stories? I want to share a "not so famous" story after our recent visit—an experience from the ever-changing landscape of people who visit there and their grand expectations.
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Tomorrow, the first Sunday, November 6, 2022, at 2 a.m., is when Daylight Saving Time ends in most areas of the United States, returning to Standard Time. Be sure to set your clocks one hour back before bedtime on Saturday night!
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Nothing but my thoughts as if a bolt of lightning struck me; most people in the twenty-first century are allergic to silence and lack something to do. They are always doing. I'm as guilty as you. What to do?
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Johnny Owens and the Bakersfield sound? It was Saturday, October 22, 2022, and we celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary; now we’ve been married for 34 years - but we’ve heard the 50th is always special, so we celebrated in a very unusual way - in Bakersfield!
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Are you planning to host a pumpkin carving party for the neighborhood kids this holiday season or maybe liven up your porch for Halloween? Here are a few tips you might try.
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Welcome to On the Fly, a weekly podcast about whatever comes to mind. I'm your host Patrick Ball. Today we introduce video podcasts.
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Friday, Oct. 7, 2022, we participated in a special luncheon for one of our engineering team members Doan Vo from Vietnam. As a special gift, we prepared and performed a song that you all know - Country Roads by John Denver (lyrics rewritten) on guitar accompanied by mandolin at the luncheon.
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For you sky watchers, the Hunters Moon is your gateway to fall; it will be visible on Sunday, October 9, 2022, at 16:55 EST, based on the data provided by NASA. Goodbye summer.
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It happened on Thursday; Fall officially arrived, and soon darkness will be upon us by 5:00 p.m. To prepare, let's look at our energy usage and the most cost-effective way to light our home this winter. LED lighting.
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In last week's episode, we explored the reality of Wilderness camping. This week allow me to share a story that spread like wildfire during our 2022 Sierra adventure.
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Today's podcast allows me to illustrate how folks take for granted the conveniences of modern everyday life and miss the satisfaction of wilderness camping in the Sierras.
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While California is one of the leading U.S. states in solar deployment, CA. has lagged in providing community solar access. As of September 1, 2022, the California State Legislature passed AB 2316, the Community Renewable Energy Act, a bill that creates a community renewable energy program, including community solar-plus-storage, to overcome access barriers for nearly half of Californians who rent or have low incomes.
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Can your electric vehicle (E.V.) power your home? It's a question that people are asking, especially with the rise in E.V. popularity. Let's explore what's required, bi-directional charging.
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Welcome to part two of A Bear Sighting; if you recall, it was day two of our 2014 Sierra adventure. We left our heroes at the East Fork Campground along Rock Creek in the Eastern Sierra, an elevation of 9,000 feet.
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It's the middle of August already. School is just around the corner, and summer is coming to an end; this year, 2022 Sierra adventure is in September. And - this week, I'm looking at 66.
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Pull up a chair let me tell you the story of a bear. I awoke to the steady patter of rain on my tent in the black velvet darkness of our cozy mountain camp. Wrapped in my sleeping bag, I sat up, craned my head to one side, and listened; there was that strange sound again. Our 2014 Sierra adventure.
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Maybe you have heard of the Smart Grid on the news or from your energy provider. In this episode, we will introduce you to the future of electricity distribution. This summary comes from https://www.smartgrid.gov
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Have you ever noticed when your cat wakes up from a nap how they arch their back and enjoy an entire body stretch, yawning with legs extended, paws, claws, and toes spread wide? Now fully awake, they're ready to take on the day. That's Pandiculation!
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What's in your mailbox today? No, I'm not referring to your email; I'm talking about what's become known as "Snail Mail." Remember Postal delivery? In this episode, we explore the Joy of a handwritten letter.
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Don't be alarmed; Yes, it's me, I'm the ravishing beauty on your wrist, and my name is Jade. I know what you're thinking - how can this possibly be - this bracelet is talking to me?
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Summer is here; as you hit the hiking trails, let me suggest a technique you might find helpful or at least a challenge to try. I call it the PCF technique "Patrick's Controlled Fall."
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When shopping for backup power (portable charger) for your phone, you’re sure to encounter milliamp hours or the abbreviation mAh. Not sure what this means? Let’s examine it.
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Do you consider yourself a music lover? If so, the question remains, have you ever experienced music reproduction from a quality stereo system with a turntable and Vinyl LP record?
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How do you celebrate the 4th of July holiday? Maybe you hang an American flag on your house, barbecue burgers and hotdogs, have a beer, watch baseball on TV, or perhaps you're looking for a way to get your community involved. Stay tuned, and I'll provide a suggestion that our neighborhood does to build cohesiveness and family spirit that might inspire you to do the same.
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Flip a switch, and a light comes on. In most cases, the electricity to power that device came from an enormous interconnected system called the electric grid. Have you ever wondered how it works?
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I've been reading a lot lately about battery storage and the electric power grid and thought you might find the following article from MYEV.com helpful, especially if you own an Electric Car (EV) or a Hybrid.
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Does a cat own you? Then I'm sure you know what it's like to be a Jungle Gym. You Don't? Well, allow me to explain.
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Have you ever wondered where the Hope Diamond gets its phosphorescent eerie red glow? Enjoy this throwback Thursday episode from "Inside GIA Education."
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Welcome to Episode 152 of On the Fly. Believe it or not, we went live on the Anchor platform over two years ago! But there's more to the story.
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Today in history marks a memorable day for our family. On May 5, 1962, my Lil' brother Rodger was born (he's not so little anymore). I'm collecting stories for his birthday celebration!
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Have you ever gotten a speeding ticket? Did you know that the first-ever speeding ticket was issued to a driver going 8 miles an hour? This week I wanted to share an exciting bit of trivia from one of my online subscription newsletters, Interesting Facts that you might enjoy.
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Ok, let's just fess up and be honest - you hate going to the dentist! Why? Here's what happens.
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Will you join the children in scouring their yards on Easter Sunday for plastic eggs and filling baskets with chocolate bunnies? Have you ever wondered why we do such strange things? Here are seven (7) reasons behind a few of our Easter traditions.
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"Today is our birthday! Today you are you!" This special birthday episode is a dramatic reading of Happy Birthday To You by Dr. Seuss, illustrated and published in 1959. Happy Birthday!
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You don't know what Jackie Robinson Day is? Well, pull up a seat and lend an ear. Jackie Robinson Day is an event in Major League Baseball (MLB) that occurs annually on April 15th, commemorating the day Jackie Robinson made his major league debut.
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Right now, it's a picture in your mind—a visit to the Ballpark. Today, April 7, 2022, the baseball season officially opens. With 162 games to play, 30 teams step confidently into the opening day with renewed hope, allowing me to set the tone. - Baseball; by Ken Burns
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While exploring the microfilm of the Cuba Journal (published from 1884 to 1992), I consistently kept running across articles entitled The Country Doctor. This intrigued me. Doc Welch was a third-generation practicing Country Doctor in Cuba, Illinois, for over 40 years.
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Yes, we all know that April Fools' Day is an annual custom on April 1, consisting of practical jokes and hoaxes. The tradition of setting aside a day for playing harmless pranks upon one's neighbor what follows is a reminder to be a friend.
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While listening to music on Spotify I was emotionally moved by the 2007 Grammy Award-winning song Our Town written for the Disney Movie - Cars. Lyrics & Music by Randy Newman and sung by James Taylor.
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Baseball fans, Major League Spring Training started on March 17, 2022. Opening day is less than one month away. My question to you is this, "Have you made plans which ballparks to visit this year?" How about the American League Central, Kansas City Royals?
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The Apple Macintosh, or The Mac, has been a well-known computer platform since 1984. Have you ever wondered why it's called Mac? Yes, It's named after a Type of Apple.
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I'm curious, have you ever wondered where the name Dr. Seuss came from? On March 2, 2022, we celebrate Ted Seuss Geisel on his 118th birthday.
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When you’re on your own, and you know what you know. You’ll be the one who’ll decide where to go. Employ your mind with work you enjoy; you will blossom, my friend - your performance will change.
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A Tribute to Dr. Seuss, on this particular day, (2/22/2022), enjoy a piece inspired after reading Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss.
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Welcome to Chapter 8 (closing chapter) of the children’s book Who Was Stephen Hawking? by Jim Gigliotti; learn about Stephens many guest appearances on television. (Audio pages. 86-102).
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Welcome back to Chapter 7 of the children’s book Who Was Stephen Hawking? by Jim Gigliotti; learn how Stephens book, A Brief History of Time, made him an international star. (Audio pages. 78-82).
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Welcome to Chapter 6 of the children’s book Who Was Stephen Hawking? by Jim Gigliotti; learn about how Stephen overcame insurmountable obstacles to finish his book, A Brief History of Time. (Audio pages. 70-77).
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Welcome back; in Chapter 5 from the children’s book Who Was Stephen Hawking? by Jim Gigliotti, learn about one of Steven's most notable discoveries. (Audio pages. 57-69).
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Welcome back; in Chapter 4 from the children’s book Who Was Stephen Hawking? by Jim Gigliotti, we learn how Stephen discovers his inspiration to live despite his ALS diagnosis. (Audio pages. 47-56).
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Welcome back; in this chapter, learn how Stephen responds to Bad News. (Audio pages. 33-46 ).
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You’ve read the stories of young children who had such a difficult time in school, ever wonder why? Maybe you have such a child yourself; school doesn’t click for them. What do Einstein and Stephen Hawking share? Chapter two - School Days
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This week meet Professor Stephen Hawking. A famous physicist and author. His friends nicknamed him “Einstein” as a teenager because he was brilliant. Learn more about the entire Who Was collection at whohq.com.
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Welcome to our final episode of Sundays with Glenn. Sadly, Major Glenn Ferguson passed away in Escondido, CA., on Saturday, December 18, 2021. He reached his goal of 100. A life well-lived. He will be deeply missed.
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What is it that compels you to pick up a book? Is it the cover, is it the title, how about an interest in a specialized subject, or just - perhaps it's a whim? Check out the Who Was Series; you'll be glad you did.
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After visiting a local coffee shop in Tucson, AZ. the contrast between the modern-day "cowboy" and the debonaire image seen on television is radically different. In this episode, we compare the Old West Gun-Slinger to today's phone-slinger.
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The Chuck Huckleberry Loop is a system of paved, shared-use paths and short segments of bicycle (bike) lanes connecting the Cañada del Oro, Rillito, Santa Cruz, and Pantano River Parks with Julian Wash and Harrison Road Greenway in Tucson. Get out there and explore!
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Green Sand Beach is named Papakolea. The green sand gets its color from tiny olivine crystals (commonly known as Peridot) created from eruptions to a dormant volcano. Nestled in Mahana Bay, this is truly a unique place and one of only two green sand beaches globally. Join us!
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Everyone knows Rudolph was the last reindeer to join Santa's team, but few people know about the department store copywriter who brought his story to the world. Enjoy!
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This Christmas Eve, people worldwide will download the NORAD Tracks Santa app from iTunes or Google Play. He's on the move, are you ready?
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“Rudolph, could it be that some of you are not acquainted with the story of Rudolph? Well, pull up an ice block and lend an ear.”
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When was the last time your neighbors surprised you? Ours did this past weekend. One young family who passes by our home every day around 5:00 p.m. came to our door, dressed in red, (the little guy peeked in our window) holding a tray of Christmas cookies.
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We stumbled across this poem while doing a Google search for Holiday poetry. A gift from our family to yours this Christmas season.
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Here’s a little gift for you this Holiday season. Did you know that Google has a secret pinball game tucked in its iPhone iOS app? Check it out!
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Thanksgiving is now a memory, and Yes, "Christmas - is - just around the corner." How can you help but notice, this year, the commercials are all about 5G!
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On this Thanksgiving Day 2021, we wish you happiness, tasty memories, the warmth of friends, family, and healthy life.
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Welcome to episode three of Sundays with Glenn. Today, we talk about Glenn's development of the Flying Leathernecks Annual Essay Contest in collaboration with the Character Education Resource Center at San Diego State University
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Let's talk about Guitars. When considering a purchase, do you find yourself on Google searching for that unique guitar and rely on the expertise of some stranger who tries to record a comparison review on YouTube? Let's explore the Sound.
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"Each of us is, at this moment, standing in the middle of his or her Acres of Diamonds." - Earl Nightingale. Are you struggling with success? I challenge you to listen to this podcast every morning for one month and practice positive principles.
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Interview with Dr. Don Hanley, we discuss education for children, indoctrination vs. education, nurturing creativity, and so much more. Join me.
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Have you ever considered the details your brain retains from an experience? Recently during a visit to the Griffith Park Observatory in Los Angeles, CA., vivid experiences from the past exploded in my minds-eye. Join me.
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Today we salute all Veterans who've served with this special tribute to the Marine Corps' 246th birthday. This episode aired on Nov. 10, 2021, written and produced for the https://flyingleathernecks.org/
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Father time certainly has a way of dimming the past. On Friday, Oct. 22, 2021, we strolled the campus now called Christ Cathedral, part of the Catholic Dioceses. To my astonishment, it was as if the history had been completely erased.
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Welcome to episode two of Sundays with Glenn. Today, we talk about Glenn's enlistment in 1939, why donuts, and traveling to Bootcamp.
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Happy Halloween! In This special bonus episode, James Marker narrates The Raven, a classic.
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It's autumn, Halloween is tomorrow night - how do you capture the experience, the smells of autumn, the rustling sounds of multicolored falling leaves, the quiet, peaceful feeling, the solitude of life in a haunted town? This throwback episode has been edited and re-recorded with "spooky" special effects.
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Welcome to Sundays with Glenn. Have you ever had a friend that you wish you could spend more time with? But life's daily responsibilities seem to get in the way. Allow me to introduce you to my friend, Glenn Ferguson, who turns 100 years of age on October 29, 2021. In this episode, Glenn tells the story (circa 1942) of tripping over President Roosevelts' wheelchair.
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Happy Halloween, this episode is for all you William Shakespeare fans to celebrate the sounds of Halloween.
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A narration of Chapter 2 pgs. 21 - 23. You've just heard an excerpt (part IV) from the novel A New World of Hope by Don Hanley. We received another question from one of our listeners. Let's give Professor Haloran a call on our communicator to see if we can chat. Question; "I believe you were a bit shocked by what you saw in the U.S. when you arrived in the year 2018; what shocked you the most?"
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I’m sure you’ve noticed the leaves on the trees are changing. This science update from howstuffworks.com by Jennifer Horton gives us some insight as to why - join me.
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Built-in 1957, RCA Studio B became known as the birthplace of the "Nashville Sound." A melodic style characterized by background vocals and strings helped establish Nashville as an international recording center from 1957 – 1977 – Music City USA.
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There was no doubt; this is what we came to experience! It was clear that Tommy Emmanuel was keyed up for the Saturday night show at The Ryman in Nashville, Tenn.
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First opened in 1892, the Ryman Auditorium, then called the Union Gospel Tabernacle, stands today as the nation's premier concert venue in Music City USA, Nashville, Tenn. But, what I've discovered is most people only recognize the name, The Grand Ole Opry®. Let's explore the history of how that came about.
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A narration of Chapter 1 pgs. 2 - 5. Well, what do you think now? You've just heard an excerpt (part II) from the novel A New World of Hope by Don Hanley. Interview; Let's see if we can get Professor Mark Haloran to spend a few minutes with us on this week's podcast?
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A Narration of Chapter 1 pgs. 1 & 2. You will hear an excerpt from the novel A New World of Hope by Don Hanley that we introduced to you in last week's episode. Are you interested in hearing more? I'd love to know; if not, let me know as well.
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"Books are filled with ideas, and it's ideas that shape our lives." There are times when a book captures your imagination, motivates you to act, and fulfills a desire that is hidden deep within your soul. Let me introduce you to an author and his most recent novel that I just finished reading.
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We've all heard the expression "The Dog Days of Summer" and may even use it from time to time, but do you know what the phrase means? And what it has to do with dogs?
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Journeys through an airport can be stressful—you're on a time constraint, lots of other stressed people around you, and you're faced with the inherent nerve-racking nature of security screening. This episode reviews 6 things to think about when traveling.
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On Thursday, August 12, 2021, Field of Dreams came to life for so many devoted fans of that movie and baseball. The central theme of that movie hinged on father and son bonding – “having a catch.” This reminded me of a story I wrote in 2012 about my Dad. This week would have been my Dad's 87th birthday; he’s been gone now six years.
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"You don't pay the price - you enjoy the benefit" of work that allows you to contribute to society. During my journey through this maze, we call life on earth. Here are a few nuggets that I've uncovered - not discovered, about work. There is a big difference.
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Have you ever wondered why toilet paper is just plain white? While reading this morning's eNews I stumbled into this interesting article on Readers Digest Read up.
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"You can get everything in life you want if you help enough other people get what they want." - Zig Ziglar While poking around in my library looking for something to share with you, I came across this old book, See You At The Top.
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People ask me all the time, "So, what's your podcast about?" My response, A smidgen of history, a dash of culture - a minute dedicated to making you smile. "It's whatever comes to mind - really!"
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How many times during a conversation with someone who's in a hurry and walking away from you have you heard, "text me!" Would you please ditch the following seven annoying texting habits to keep your conversation flowing?
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Do you remember the radio segment "The Rest of the Story?" Boy, I sure do. And I'm sure many of you listening do too, especially if you had your radio on at Noon each day. Relive a famous recording "God Made A Farmer" - Paul Harvey
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There's no doubt the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in July 1776. But which date has the legitimate claim on Independence Day: July 2 or July 4?
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If you have a Photovoltaic (PV) Solar System on the roof of your home, you can expect the best production (usually between 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.) from your system through the summer and early fall. And - it would be best if you banked some credits with your energy provider. Provided that you pay attention to Peak Time of Use (TOU) hours and the following two tips.
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In today's language, we're bombarded with acronyms. And every profession has its own unique list of them. ICYMI (in case you missed it). What's the difference between an acronym and an abbreviation?
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How many of you who have an iPhone or an iPad hesitate to upgrade to the latest operating system when Apple announces a new version of its mobile operating system?
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Have you ever wondered why we drive on a different side of the road than our British counterparts? I have. Let's explore that question.
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Your iPhone doesn't need to rest often, but you do. Periodically shutting it down and restarting it could benefit your iPhone and your peace of mind.
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It's day three of my first wilderness-backpacking trip in the High Sierra Mountains (elevation 10,500 feet), 20 miles southwest of Bishop, California, camped at Dingleberry Lake.
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As hard as it is to believe, Rock-n-Roll legend Ritchie Valens would have turned 80 years old this past Thursday. Happy Birthday, Ritchie; your music lives on!
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Some of you may opt for a cruise ship vacation this summer. Now, I'll be candid here, a cruise vacation? I'm not too sure about all this—our story.
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May 5, 2021, will mark the 60th anniversary of the launch of Freedom 7. Commander Alan B. Shepard, Jr. became the first American in space. The space program was in its infancy. Unlike today, there were far too many unknowns.
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Believe it! The first episode of On the Fly went live one year ago yesterday! My listening friends, I challenge you to go back and listen to episode one; funny, this all started with a letter.
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Such agony! You're forced to stop playing your favorite online video game and plug your phone in to recharge its battery.
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Don’t you just love how the media overdramatizes news? On April 13, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), halted the use of the one-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine!
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ARLINGTON, Texas, April 9, 2021 — The Kid from San Diego, Joe Musgrove knew all about the Padres no-hitter history. There wasn't any, until last night!
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Have you ever wondered about - bottled water? Does it expire, really?
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A visit to the Ballpark, right now it's a picture in your mind. Soon, however beginning next Thursday, April 1, 2021, the baseball season officially opens, no fooling’ . . .
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The babies have left the nest! Today, Wed. March 24, 2021, our little family of Hummingbirds has moved on to explore the neighborhood.
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Welcome to the first day of Spring 2021. We've watched baby hummingbirds grow up this week. Treasure the simple pleasures of spring.
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Going through the Farmers Almanac I was curious about Daylight Savings Time. Wondering why do we “Spring Forward?”
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As a Spotify free subscriber recently we discovered a new original podcast series - Renegades: Born in the USA. Check it out!
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“You may have heard by now that the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum in San Diego, CA. is closing? What can you do to help?” Join the grassroots effort!
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Have you ever wondered why internet web addresses are in English? You'll be amazed, maybe not.
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One of the questions that keep popping up is, “I listen to the Podcast via the Facebook website, but how do I subscribe?”
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Happy Valentines Day. Don't forget your sweetheart. Big hugs today and every day!
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Have you ever wondered just how fast your brain's processing power is compared to today’s Supercomputers?
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"This land is your land this land is my land From California to the New York Island."
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If you happen to be a Kindle Reader download Just Folks, a collection of poems FREE from Amazon’s Kindle store.
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“It’s a beautiful day in our neighborhood, A beautiful day for a neighbor . . .”
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If you happen to be a Kindle Reader you can down a collection of Edgar Guest poems FREE from Amazon’s Kindle store. Relax . . .
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Are you proud to be an American? “We will lead not merely by the example of our power but by the power of our example.” U.S. President, Joe Biden
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“Won’t you be my neighbor?” Start each day with "I Can" and you will.
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“Childhood lies at the very heart of who we are and who we become.” - Fred Rogers, Won't you be my neighbor?
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Two young boys visit The Corner, a nickname for the intersection of Michigan and Trumbull Avenue, Briggs Stadium, (later re-named Tiger Stadium 1961).
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My listening friends, we made it through 2020! Thank you so much for listening. It wasn’t easy and it wasn’t always fun but we learned many lessons that can’t be undone. Happy New Year!
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May every day of the upcoming New Year (2021) inspire you to grow!
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“Maybe - Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas . . . perhaps . . . means a little bit more!”
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Nearly two hundred years later this Christmas Classic is the most-published, most-read, most-memorized, and most-collected book in all of Christmas literature.
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Last night, (December 21, 2020) many of you may have stepped outside about 5:30 p.m., looked to the Southwest expecting to see what was called the Christmas Star. Here's the story . . .
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In this episode - Keeping Christmas . . . by Henry Van Dyke, read by Lori Ball.
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You’ve heard the saying, “That was before my time.” Was it really? I’m convinced that “time” is relative. In my small way, this is an attempt to experience the 1951 NBC television series, A Guest in Your House.
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We all have special memories with our Dad at Christmas. What's yours?
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As you prepare your Christmas list, please remember the true meaning of Christmas.
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Please welcome Lori to the Podcast this holiday season. Over the next few episodes, she will be narrating poems and stories lovingly prepared as a special gift to our family and yours.
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A Thanksgiving poem to relish the memories of days-gone-by.
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Happy Thanksgiving from On the Fly . . .
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What is your favorite holiday program? Allow Linus to reminds us, “That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown.”
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We all do it - scattered thoughts as we talk to ourself in our mind, especially when we’re dreaming. How do you capture your creative ideas?
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Have you ever heard about the single idea for which a man was paid $25,000? This idea could change your life.
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Yes, it’s Halloween. You were expecting me in costume as a 969-year-old man? Sorry, this Methuselah is much older.
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Today we test your vocabulary: Define the word Garrulous – is it? A: friendly. B: argumentative. C: talkative. D: senile?
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Are you a possibility thinker? Do you look for reasons why something can’t be done instead of searching for ways to achieve it? Take action now!
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Are you a dreamer? Believe in yourself, today is a new day, you were put on this earth for a purpose. Discover that purpose, you too can change the world.
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It’s autumn, Halloween is approaching - how do you capture the experience, the smells, the rustling sounds of multicolored falling leaves, the quiet, peaceful feeling, the solitude of life in a small town?
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Nod your head if you remember the “punishment” of being kept after school - A Detention.
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In this Bonus segment, I want to address a recent comment, from a listener, posted on my Blog - On The Fly. It was this, “Please tell of your favorite moments growing up in Cuba, Illinois.”
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Where will your shoes take you today? I’m looking at a pair of brown, soft suede leather, around-town walking shoes. My go-to, most comfortable shoes.
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Today Sept. 17, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. (0900 hours) the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum, we will reopen our gate to the museum off Miramar Road in San Diego, CA. at MCAS Miramar Air Station.
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Have you ever caught yourself just shaking your head when someone asks you a really stupid question? Sure you have.
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On this Labor Day weekend 2020, let’s make - Common Sense a Common Practice, once again before it’s too late.
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Welcome to On the Fly - No need to subscribe, now you can ask your smart device to play my Podcast.
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Turntables are making a big comeback, why? Listening to music should be a multi-sensory experience. The sound of vinyl LPs.
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Do you remember Googie (Not Google) Architecture? Let’s take a trip that represents a blast from roadside America’s motoring past.
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It’s your birthday, what do you do? My commitment is a bicycle ride!
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We are all Statisticians. Don’t believe me? In this episode, we uncover how you gather information to make life decisions.
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Have you ever wondered why we put crackers in our soup? Today we uncover that uncanny mystery.
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Have you ever gambled in Las Vegas? No slots for us - we gambled on the booger machine getting us home.
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Have you ever owned a lemon, sure you have! We called ours The Mean Green Booger Machine.
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How many times have you heard "When I'm 64" thinking, “That’s a long time from now?” . . . Memories!
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Is time travel possible? The 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch may have proven it is.
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Consider for a moment how the fate of one person has influenced your life for the better? Allow me to introduce you to that person.
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Happy 4th of July. When practicing the guitar, we don’t recommend a cat on your shoulders.
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A voice on the radio, baseball, the sweet smell of Vitalis, relive all the sounds and smells of summer.
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Your greatest achievement was at first and for a time a dream. Dream lofty dreams and so shall you become.
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What music had an influence on you during your teen years?
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Are you “In the field”? What happens to you when you find that feeling.
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Your mind at birth is a completely blank slate. Can we program our minds?
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The connection between goals and accomplishments, habits. Or are you an Excuse-i-ologist?
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This Memorial Day, take some time to immerse yourself in the sensory world. Get your boots on the trail.
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Show us your guitarsenal? Discover The Acoustic Tuesday Show on YouTube.
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Explore the special gift you were given at birth. Turn on switch number four.
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In this episode, we identify three factors why people learn and don’t start doing what they know.
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March 5, 1961, a day for the history books. In this episode a tribute to an American hero.
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Experience the magic of music. In this episode, allow me to introduce you to young talented musicians on YouTube.
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Let’s face it kids do ask the best questions. Pure unadulterated optimists. Check out this segment, you'll be glad you did.
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Discover a simple three-step process that will reshape your attitude.
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Introducing On The Fly with this letter.
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