What is Your Hot Button?

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Developers:

I've been moving my off-line business to an on-line media format. Or to be more specific, I've been building my new WordPress web site.

Tonight, I posted an article about how passionate I am about working on development projects. And have answered the question I now pose to you... "What is your Hot Button?"

You can read the article here at my WordPress GFB Services web site.

When you feel compelled to comment, please do not hesitate... and be passionate about it.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate

p.s. - While you're at GFB Services new web site, check out my new "About" and "Testimonials" pages. - gfb3
p.p.s. - And if you want to look over my shoulder and occasionally chat with me... follow me at Twitter. - @gfb3

George Bush tried to Warn Congress in 2002 that Economic Crisis Was Coming

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Developers:

If you remember, I wrote an article about the Housing Situation on July 28, 2008: http://thedevelopersadvocate.blogspot.com/2008/07/real-estate-what-is-being-said-and-done.html

Today, I got a very interesting email saying the current economic situation was predicted and discussed by the U.S. Government in 2002.

"Timeline shows Bush, McCain warning Dems of financial and housing crisis; meltdown"

"This video shows that George Bush tried to warn Congress in 2002 that this economic crisis was coming, if something was not done. But congress refused to listen, along with Barney Franks. This video says it all .

Also, the liberal AMERICAN media did not want this video on You Tube, so they had Time Warner threaten a law suit (proprietary rights) if it was not taken off.

This link is of the same video but is routed through Canada . Everyone in America needs to see this!"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMnSp4qEXNM



As you can see... this situation did not happen overnight and will not get fixed overnight either.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate

p.s. - New Information: from twitter member @jmb_recommends: interesting chart created for members of congress listing various causes of the economic crisis: per @planetmoney http://tinyurl.com/2000Crisis - gfb3
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Speech: Barack Obama 44th U.S. President - A New Chapter in U.S. History

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Developers:

Today the world saw the 44th President of the United States being sworn into office.

Barack Obama is the first person of color to lead the United States of America.

He has given many people inspiration to improve their lives while increasing their self-esteem.

Listen to the words President Obama says during his inauguration speech... his words hold much truth.

Even though I did not vote for Barack Obama... he has shown me that he is up to the job of leading our nation.

He has positioned some of the best people in his cabinet... and has taken initiative to put in action the steps that I believe will guide for our nation out of the current economic situation.

Watch our President closely... listen to what he says... but don't stop at being an observer... become involved and take action when your Spirit feels compelled.


Watch CBS Videos Online

Not much more to say at this point... President Barack Obama has said much today... and I'm looking forward to watching and experiencing a change for the better... in attitudes and positive achievements.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate

p.s. - The first swearing-in ceremony wording was flawed... so to make sure there were no legal issues with Barack Obama being our nation's President... he decided to swear in a second time with the correct wording. If you missed it... here it is:



Until next time... gfb3
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Save Money with Coupon Programs

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Developers:



Cheryl and I ate dinner with our first-born's family Saturday night and enjoyed ourselves immensely!



Our 2 year old granddaughter got to play "daycare teacher" with MiMi (Cheryl) and her dolls.



My son-in-law and I hung out in his "batcave" and had some great conversations.



But, before all that, all five of us ate our delicious meal at their dining room table.



Diana fixed a fantastic roast dinner in her crock pot using her secret ingredients.



It was absolutely delicious!



Then... it had to happen... conversations revolved around the current state of the economy (after Destiny's bedtime) and Diana told us about some cost savings she learned about on the television and from friends.



So today, I sent her an email with these other resources as well:

Diana:

Check out these coupon websites:

http://www.couponmom.com/

http://www.couponinfonow.com/

http://shortcuts.com/

http://www.eversave.com/

http://www.couponsinc.com/

http://coupons.com/

http://www.couponmountain.com/

http://smartsource.com/

http://www.mygrocerydeals.com/

http://www.mommysavers.com/

Budget Recipes:

http://recipefinder.nal.usda.gov/

Happy Savings!!!

- Your Dad

p.s. - share this list with everyone you know who needs to save money. -
DAD

Also, there is a discount food program called "AngelFoodMinistries" that allows you to buy food for a fraction of the cost. (Diana told us about that resource several months ago.)



I hope this helps everyone save money in the future and during the current economic adjustment.



And, please... please... please share this with everyone you know it will help!!!



Until next time...



Girard Frank Bolton, III.

The Developers Advocate

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Frozen Desserts Anyone?

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Developers:

When was the last time your family or social group enjoyed a frozen dessert gathering?

Some of my fondest childhood memories involves eating home made ice cream after taking my turn at the hand cranked ice cream maker.

For some reason it tasted better than the home made ice cream that was made with a motorized ice cream maker.

Regardless of whether the gathering was with family or the youth group at church, ice cream somehow made the event much more memorable.

I found an almost forgotten email I sent my father after he and I were walking down memory lane.

The email included thirty frozen dessert recipes that you can make at home.

My wife is putting together a series of cookbooks and this is just a sampling of one book in her collection.

*FROZEN DESSERTS*


In making frozen desserts attention to detail is the essential thing to perfect success.


PREPARING SALT

The smaller the ice is broken the better, while the salt should never be too fine. A salt prepared especially for the purpose is known as "ice cream salt." This salt and the finely broken ice are put in alternate layers about the cream can. Begin with a layer of ice, making this about three inches deep. Then put in a layer of salt about an inch in depth, and continue in this way up to the top of the cream can. The ice can be put in a gunny sack and then broken up with a heavy hammer or hatchet.


FREEZING CREAMS AND WATER ICES

Fill the cream can three-fourths full. Cover; place in wooden bucket; adjust the top and pack, as directed above. Turn crank slowly and steadily. After freezing drain off water, remove dasher; with a spoon pack hard. Put cork in top of lid. Repack freezer. Cover top with heavy pieces of carpet and paper. When time comes to serve, wipe top of can carefully before opening. In very hot weather renew the salt and ice three times, and keep the blanket cold and wet with the brine from the freezer.


VANILLA ICE CREAM, No. 1

Take one pint of milk, two cups of sugar, one large tablespoon of flour rubbed smooth in cold milk, two eggs beaten light, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and one quart of sweet cream, well beaten. Heat the milk in a double boiler, and when it is at boiling point add the flour, eggs and one cup of sugar. Cook about twenty minutes, stirring very often. Let the mixture get cold, then add the remaining sugar and the vanilla and cream, and freeze. A more novel flavoring is made with a mixture of vanilla, lemon and almond extracts. The quantities given in this recipe make about two quarts of ice cream.


VANILLA ICE CREAM, No. 2

Beat three whole eggs very light with one cup of granulated sugar until all grain is dissolved and mass is a light yellowish color. Whip one pint of cream until stiff, add to eggs and sugar, then add one cup of sweet milk, flavor with vanilla to taste, and put in freezer and turn until hard. This is a basis for almost any kind of cream.


CHOCOLATE ICE CREAM, No. 1

Make same as Vanilla Ice Cream, No. 2, only omitting the milk. Dissolve on stove one-half pound of sweet chocolate, in one cup of sweet milk, rub smooth and thick, let get cold, and add to the eggs, just before putting in cream. Flavor with vanilla.


CHOCOLATE ICE CREAM, No. 2

Take one quart of cream, one pint of new milk, two eggs, one teacup of grated chocolate (double vanilla), two cups of pulverized sugar, one teaspoon of cornstarch and one of extract of vanilla. Beat the yolks of the eggs, sugar and let them come to a boil. Then take them quickly from the fire, dissolve the chocolate in a little milk over the fire, stir it all the time. When smooth mix with the milk and eggs, add the cream and vanilla. Freeze when cold.


COFFEE ICE CREAM

Make same as Vanilla Ice Cream No. 2. Flavor with one and one-half tablespoons of mocha extract, add one cup of grated walnuts. Freeze.


FROZEN CUSTARD

One quart of milk, yolk of five eggs, sweeten to taste, and flavor with vanilla to taste. Boil the milk first, and after the yolks of eggs are beaten stir into the milk. When cold add the beaten whites and vanilla; put in freezer and turn. Canned strawberries are very nice in this.


APRICOT, PEACH, STRAWBERRY, BANANA OR PINEAPPLE CREAM

Make same as Vanilla Ice Cream No. 2, omitting the milk. If canned fruit is to be used, drain off the juice, and add it to the eggs and cream. Mash the fruit through a sieve, add it to rest of mixture, and freeze the whole. If fresh fruits are used, one pint is required. Mash fine, strain and sweeten before adding to the cream. For peach and strawberry a few drops of pink coloring may be added. Bananas must be mashed smooth, but not sweetened. Chop all fruits very fine For pineapple, the sliced is preferred to the grated. Either canned or fresh can be used.


TUTTI-FRUTTI ICE CREAM

Take three pints of cream, one pound of pulverized sugar and the yolks of nine eggs. Prepare just like the other creams. When half frozen add one-half pound of crystallized fruit, peaches, apricots, cherries, citron, etc., chopped very fine. Put in also a wineglass of pale sherry and the juice of an orange or lemon. Finish freezing.


FROZEN PUDDINGS

For frozen puddings ice must be crushed and mixed with rock-salt, the same way as for freezing cream. Pudding-mold must have a tight cover; have a receptacle sufficiently large to line bottom and sides with a thick layer of mixed salt and ice. Put the mold in the centre, fill with the pudding, cover tightly, then put ice on top and all around. Put a sheet of plain tissue paper in top of mold to prevent salt from penetrating. Cover whole with a cloth and let freeze from three to four
hours.


BISCUIT TORTONI, No. 1


Take one-half cup of granulated sugar, one-fourth pound of stale macaroons grated, one-half pint of heavy cream (whipped), three eggs, vanilla or sherry wine. Stir yolks of eggs until thick and add sugar and stir again; add whipped cream, and whipped whites of eggs, and grated macaroons; flavor to taste. Put this all into freezer and pack outside with ice and salt alternately. Do not turn. Let stand five or six hours, adding ice from time to time. When serving put grated macaroons on top.


BISCUIT TORTONI, No. 2


Take yolks of two eggs, one pint of cream, eight macaroons, vanilla and flavor, one-half cup of sugar, one-half cup of milk. Beat yolks of eggs and the sugar very light. Put on milk to a boil, and when it comes to a boil stir into the beaten eggs and sugar and set away to cool. Beat cream and add macaroons, leaving just enough to put in the bottom of your form. When your custard is cool, add cream, put all in forms, pack and freeze two hours or longer.


MOCHA MOUSSE

Cream yolks of three eggs with one-half cup of granulated sugar. Add one-half pint of cream, whipped; one-half cup of grated macaroons, two tablespoons of mocha essence, one teaspoon of vanilla, lastly beaten whites. Put in a mold and pack in salt and ice for three hours.


MAPLE MOUSSE

Whip one pint of cream until quite thick. Break two eggs into another bowl, beat until light and add gradually, one-half cup of maple syrup. When the two are well mixed, whip them gradually into the cream. Pour the whole into a freezer can, without the dasher; cover; pack in ice and salt, and let stand for three hours.


MAPLE BISQUE

Boil one cup of maple syrup until quite thick; beat yolks of three eggs; add to syrup while hot, stirring constantly until well mixed. Let cool. Beat whites of eggs to a froth. Whip one pint of cream, mix all together; add one-half cup of chopped nuts. Have a pudding-mold buttered; see that the edges fit close. Pack in rock salt and ice four hours.


FROZEN CREAM CHEESE WITH PRESERVED FIGS

Take three Neufchatel cheeses. Mash the cheese to a smooth paste and add one-half cup of thick cream, one-half teaspoon of salt, one rounding teaspoon of sugar. Place in a small square mold, bury in salt and ice and let stand several hours. When ready to serve unmold, cut in squares, place each on a lettuce leaf, decorate the centre of the cheese square with a preserved fig and serve at once.


RUM PUDDING

Beat yolks of two eggs with one-half cup of sugar until light, then add stiffly-beaten whites. Flavor with one tablespoon of rum. Whip one pint of cream very stiff, stir into beaten eggs. Line a melon mold with lady fingers, split in half. Then put a layer of whipped cream over. Chop one-half pound of marron glace fine and sprinkle some over cream. Put another layer of lady fingers, cream and marrons, and so on until mold is filled. Close tightly, and pack in rock salt and ice, from three to four hours.


CHERRY DIPLOMATE

Line a mold with white cake, thinly sliced, which you have previously dipped in maraschino or some other fine brandy. Then fill in with plain white ice-cream, then a layer of cherry ice, next a layer of candied cherries, next a layer of cherry-ice then a layer of strawberry ice-cream or the plain white vanilla. Finish it up with a layer of cake again and be sure to dip the cake in maraschino. Cover all up tight and
pack in ice until wanted.


NESSELRODE PUDDING

Put on one-half pound of shelled and skinned chestnuts in cold water, and let them boil until very tender, then press them through a puree sieve. Beat the yolks of five eggs with one-half pound of sugar until light, then add the mashed chestnuts, then stir in one pint of sweet cream. Put on to boil in a double boiler, add a few grains of salt, and stir until the mixture begins to boil, then remove at once from fire and set aside to cool. In a bowl put one-fourth pound of crystallized cherries, cut in half; one-fourth pound of crystallized pineapple cut up, one ounce of citron cut fine, one-fourth cup of stoned raisins and one-half cup of maraschino cordial. Put the chestnut cream in a freezer, freeze ten minutes, then add one pint cream that has been whipped stiff with two tablespoons of powdered sugar, turn until it begins to get stiff, then add the fruits and turn awhile longer. Pack in a pudding-mold in rock salt and ice two hours.


CANNED FRUIT FROZEN

Without opening, pack a can of pears in ice and salt, as for ice-cream. Let it remain for three or four hours. When taken out, cut the can open around the middle. If frozen very hard, wrap around with a towel dipped in hot water; the contents can then be clipped out in perfect rounds. Cut into slices and serve with a spoonful of whipped cream on each slice. This will serve six or eight persons.

Canned peaches may be used if desired.


PETER PAN DESSERT

Cut a banana in four strips, cross two over two in basket-shape, fill centre square with a tablespoon of ice-cream and sprinkle over all some chopped walnuts, pistachio nuts and marshmallows, cut in strips.


FRUIT SHERBETS

There is no form in which ices are more palatable or healthful than in the form of sherbet. This is made of fruit juice, sugar and water. The simplest sherbet is made by mixing the sugar, water and fruit juice together. A richer and smoother ice is obtained by boiling the sugar and water together, then adding the fruit juice, and when the mixture is cool, freezing it. It takes nearly twice as long to freeze the
preparation made in this way as when made with the uncooked mixture.

Sherbets are usually served at the end of a dinner, but they are sometimes served before the roast.


APRICOT ICE

Pare and grate one dozen apricots, and blanch a few of the kernels. Then pound them and add to the grated fruit. Pour a pint of water over them, adding the juice of a lemon also. Let them stand for an hour and strain, adding one-half pound of sugar just before freezing.


LEMON ICE

Take six large, juicy lemons and grate peel of three lemons; two oranges, juice of both, and peel of one; squeeze out every drop of juice and steep the grated peel of lemon and orange in juice for an hour. Strain and mix in one pint of sugar. Stir until dissolved and freeze.


LEMON GINGER SHERBET

Shave very thin bits of the yellow peel from two lemons, being careful not to get any of the white. Cut eight lemons (using the first two) into halves, extract seeds and press out the juice. Cut one-fourth pound of ginger in strips. Boil until clear, four cups of sugar, two quarts of boiling water, ginger and shaved lemon peel. Add lemon juice and strain through a cheese-cloth. Freeze until thick and add the stiff-beaten whites of two eggs. Mix well; finish freezing, and pack.


ORANGE ICE

Make a syrup of two cups of sugar and four cups of water. Boil fifteen minutes and add two cups of orange juice, one-half cup of lemon juice and the grated rind of one orange and one lemon. Freeze and serve in glasses.


PINEAPPLE ICE

Make a syrup of four cups of water, two cups of sugar and boil fifteen minutes. Add one can grated pineapple and juice of six lemons. Cool and add four cups of ice-water. Freeze until mushy, using half ice and half salt.


PUNCH ICES

To the juice of two lemons take three-quarters of a pound of loaf sugar, two or three tablespoons of rum and one pint of water. Rub the rind of the lemons onto the sugar, then boil the sugar and water together for fifteen minutes, add the lemon juice and rum, mix well, strain, and set aside to cool. Then put the mixture into the freezing can and freeze till set.


RASPBERRY ICE

Make a strong lemonade, add raspberry juice to taste, and some grated pineapple. Put into freezer and turn like ice cream and pack, and let stand five hours.


WATERMELON SHERBET

Take good, pale sherry and boil down to quite a thick syrup, with loaf sugar; and then allow to cool. When cold mix with the chopped meat of a very fine, sweet melon, use only the heart of the soft red part, not any near the white rind. Freeze in a freezer as you would ice, but do not allow it to get too hard. Serve in glasses. You may use claret instead of the sherry. If you do, spice it while boiling with whole spices, such as cloves and cinnamon. Strain before adding to the melon.


CAFE A LA GLACE

Take five tablespoons of fresh-roasted and ground coffee. Pour four cups of boiling water over it; cover quickly and put on the back of the stove, and add one-half pound of sugar. When cold, press through a sieve, and fill in the can to be frozen. Let it remain in freezer five minutes longer before you begin to turn the freezer. Serve in glasses, and put sweetened whipped cream on the top.

I hope you enjoy preparing, sharing and eating the frozen treats that Cheryl wanted me to share with you.

Let Cheryl know how you enjoy the frozen desserts. She likes looking at event photos and hearing comments from you and your friends.

Enjoy!!!

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate

p.s. - Email your comments, photos, videos and links to your published articles about fixing these treats to: Cheryl c/o gfb3mail@yahoo.com with the subject heading: Frozen Desserts. - Thanks! - gfb3

p.p.s. - By the way... Cheryl said to feel free to pass these recipes around to your friends, coworkers and family members. - gfb3

p.p.p.s. - Plus... add your comments below so other developers can read what you have to say. - gfb3
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Joe Brantley - Sharing A Bright and Shining Spirit

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Developers:

If you haven't figured it out by now, I get along with most people. I like to share smiles and strike up conversations with most everyone.

That's why I enjoy going to the neighborhood coffee shop to eat and drink coffee while engaging in conversation with interesting people.

Although, I have to admit, I eat there way too often. (2-3 times a day including eating supper with Cheryl.) I figured it out the other day... I probably spend at least $6,000 a year eating there.

Anyway... over a year ago, an incident happened that warmed my heart immensely.

I was telling the regulars (that's what they called us) about me joining an eight-ball pool league at Legends. I told them that I like to shop on e-bay, and had won the bid on a couple of pool sticks.

One of the men spoke up and said "Man, you're wasting your money." I told him that I thought I got a good deal by buying two sticks for less than $20 and that included shipping and handling.

He then said "I got a stick you might like."

I didn't think much about it and the subject changed.

The next day, Cheryl and I sat down at the low counter. I noticed... the man I was talking with the day before... got up and went to his van.

When he came back in, he handed me a leather cue stick case and said "You can hold this for a while." and sat back down at his booth.

I asked him his name. (I'm bad about not calling people by their names and just start talking.) He said "Joe." I asked him his last name, and he said "You don't need to know that."

I tried to give him my cell phone number and he said he didn't need it. I told him he might want it back. He said "I won't."

I looked inside the leather case. It had two Meucci cue sticks inside it and some other accessories. I was overwhelmed. These were not cheap nor inexpensive sticks.

After that, we started talking more. I learned he used to play pool on a regular basis and that the best players in the U.S. are between Mobile and New Orleans.

Some of the regulars told me that Joe could beat anybody at eight-ball with a broom stick. And over the next few weeks, Joe mentioned some of the players he had shot against.

I asked Joe if he would play me so he could show me how to improve my game. He said that his eyes had gotten too bad to shoot anymore.

However, he did give me some advice and plenty of moral support. I always enjoyed his company.

The other night, Doug dropped by the house, and we got to talking about Joe. He said that he was in the restaurant about ten years ago and had forgotten his wallet. He told me that Joe asked the waitress to put Doug's meal on his tab.

Doug said that the next time he saw Joe, he tried to pay Joe back. Doug told me the only thing Joe said was "Put your money away. That wasn't a loan."

We were talking about Joe because, earlier that day, I received a call from Joe's family and friends to tell me Joe had passed away the night before.

About a week before, I found out that Joe was paralyzed from a stroke he had Saturday morning and that he was not found until Tuesday morning.

While Joe was laying there, without food or water, he had also had a heart attack and his blood sugar was at 600 when they found him. Not good for anyone, especially not for a sixty-seven year old man.

It was a miracle that he survived that long. He evidently had someone else to influence before his spirit could return to our Creator.

I visited Joe that night. Joe looked past me while I gave him words of encouragement in hopes he could hear me. I told him we were praying for his strength so he could overcome this challenge in his life.

On Thursday, I met some of his family. On that visit, Joe responded to me being there. A few days earlier, I wasn't sure.

There was a lady holding his hand that Thursday. When I came into the room, she asked me "what does Joe know you by?" I had to admit that I had no idea. I told her that it could be "Frank", "Mr. B", or "Mr. Bolton."

Like I said earlier, we just talk and usually don't mention names. We laughed about that, and she asked Joe to squeeze her hand to let her know he knew I was visiting.

He started squeezing her hand. Then we started talking about how much he had improved and how we were all praying for his strength.

Cheryl and I both visited him last Sunday and saw that Joe was breathing long and deep breaths. Resting very peacefully.

I got two calls Tuesday morning, both telling me that Joe had passed away.

Today, Joe's obituary was posted in the Mobile Press-Register.

Tomorrow my wife and I will be paying our respects at the Prayer Tabernacle Church.

Joe's spirit and memory will always be with me. I think of him when I drive past the restaurant and every time I use the cue sticks he gave me.

He will live in the words people say about him. His spirit will survive as long as people like me write about him and his thoughtfulness.

Joe is (and will always be) a bright and shining soul... someone I am proud to have known.

When I reach an age when I want to give up playing eight-ball, I will make sure I give those sticks to someone who enjoys the game as much as I enjoy it. Just like Joseph Brantley did.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
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Spotlight: Murderer is Father of Development Projects

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Developers:

I talk with people all the time who tell me that they cannot accomplish this-or-that because of something in their past. They say they are the "black sheep of the family" or something like that.

I tell them about a murderer who became the father of development and his children became developers of manufacturing projects after he was banished from his family and the land where he lived because he murdered his own brother. If he could rebound so could they.

I originally published this article June 3, 2007 under the title:

WHAT DO YOU DEVELOP?
WHAT IS YOUR VISION?

According to the Holy Bible, the first city ever constructed was called Enoch. Cain built it after he murdered his brother Able. He named the city after his first-born son Enoch.

The Bible does not say what types of structures Cain built. Just that he built them for his family. He was the first real estate developer.

The interesting part of this story is that he had a vision of putting his criminal past behind him and providing for his family. Cain was a successfully rehabilitated criminal.

I’ve met many people who feel as though their past has limited their ability to become successful. They have accepted this vision as the God Honest Truth.

The truth is that any one can achieve whatever they want to accomplish. Anyone.

In fact, a farmer/convicted murderer and his descendants founded these industries:

·Architecture.............Cain
·Engineering..............Cain
·Construction.............Cain
·Tent Manufacturing..Jabal
·Cattle Industry..........Jabal
·Music Industry...........Jubal
·Metal Industry...........Tubalcain

Remember, Cain was told to leave his homeland by God Himself. Cain accepted God’s decision and traveled to the Land of Nod. There he built a City in honor of his son Enoch.

Each person is born into this world with handicaps. They may be emotional or physical handicaps, but handicaps nonetheless. Cain’s handicap was jealous rage and low self-esteem.

I believe everyone struggles with some type of emotional baggage.

The decision to allow yourself to get caught up in a whirlpool of self-doubt, low self-esteem and relentless pessimism or not determines your success in life.

Cain took the land that God created and decided to build a city for his family.

Cain was the Developer – Designer – Contractor and Founder of the City of Enoch.

Take the brain that God gave you and develop a future for your family. Take control of your family’s destiny. Do it today!

What is your vision? Do you have a development plan? What do you want to improve?

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
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The Last Person to Take for Granted

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Developers:

Too often we have a tendency to work ourselves more than we should. I usually fall into that trap myself. Every once in a while, I've got to sit back and take a breather. This is one of those times. When I'm motivated... hardly anyone can keep up with me. So when time catches up with me... it grabs me and will not let go until I slow down or stop.

I've come to a compromise... I will not stop, but I will slow down and repost a survey I posted on MySpace earlier this year. This survey reminds me to slow down and reflect on lessons learned and lessons to be taught.

Take a moment to share your information so all of us may benefit from your viewpoints as well. (Add to comments section below article.)



Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
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Sidetracked by Google Earth

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Developers:

I've been writing an article about Virtual Assistants and have not been getting very far with my progress because of one excuse or another. (Yes I said excuse... there is no good reason.)

So while I'm taking a break from serious business... I thought I would share some fun with you.

I came across Google Earth and boy has it changed since I signed up for their map service when Google originally offered it. (And let expire later.) While I was checking out some of their samples... I found one application that put my imagination to the test.

Well... this application allows you to see both sides of the earth at the same time. When I started moving the earth around and viewing it at different angles... it resembled other objects.

It reminded me of making images out of clouds in the sky. I'm sure I could have found more, but only took the time to take snapshots of four views.



^ This reminded me of a baseball. (Imagine stitches near the edge of the land and oceans meet.)



^ This view reminded me of doughnuts.



^ This view reminded me of jewels.



^ This one looks like the Yin and Yang symbol.

If you find other subliminal images in the earth images... share them in the comments section (below this posted article).

Of course, I've got to sum all of this up by making up a moral to the story and show you how all of this is related to each other.

Humanity should stop playing around like the earth is a baseball game. It is a world that should be able to feed everyone. Humanity should view earth as a precious jewel that can not be replaced. After all, we live in the world we create for ourselves.

Yin and Yang.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
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p.s. - Check it out for yourselves & post what you see using: Google Earth Example

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Revealing Secret Interviews - Part 5

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Developers:

I originally intended to post an article tonight about Virtual Assistants, but I underestimated how long I should have scheduled my time to prepare and write about this fascinating occupation and the services available to business people everywhere.

So... I've decided to post another installment to my Revealing Secret Interview with Mr. B.

I had planned on posting this article next week, but have not finished the last little thing that will make this first interview complete.

Instead, tonight I am posting the outline of what Mr. B. says are the 20 most important things affecting the outcome of any successful business enterprise.

gfb3

Mr. B. - I want to take the time to thank you for thinking of Developers when you thought of the words you are sharing with us.

I would appreciate it if you would share with my readers, the words you shared with me about the 20 things you believe are necessary for success.

Mr. B.

Do you want the long version, or the short version?

gfb3

How about sharing the short version now and save the long version for next week?

Mr. B.

I am a showman by profession, and prefer to tell all now, but I will wait until next week since you insist. So without further ado:

1. Don't mistake your vocation.

2. Select the right location.

3. Avoid debt.

4. Persevere.

5. Whatever you do, do it with all your might.

6. Depend upon your own personal exertions.

7. Use the best tools.

8. Don't get above your business.

9. Learn something useful.

10. Let hope predominate, but be not too visionary.

11. Do not scatter your powers.

12. Be systematic.

13. Read the newspapers.

14. Beware of inside operations.

15. Don't endorse without security.

16. Advertise your business.

17. Be polite and kind to your customers.

18. Be charitable.

19. Don't blab.

20. Preserve your integrity.

gfb3

When you said the short version, you meant the short version. I can't wait for the long version next week. But, since it isn't finished being compiled, we'll have to wait it out.

Thank you Mr. B.

I can see why Mr. B. has been so successful. Even the short version contains quite a bit of information. Then again, Mr. B. has been known to make fearfully difficult actions seem easy to do.

Next time I write about Mr. B... I will reveal his true identity and talk about a special limited edition e-book prepared only for my blog subscribers.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
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I've Been Called Worse

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Developers:

I've been called "crazy" today by someone who I've been helping get started in their internet business. But she said it was a good kind of crazy.

After getting home, I got to checking my messages (email, twitter, myspace, etc...) and started thinking about what she meant. About that time I took a look at one of my recent articles about surveys... and can see why she may have said that.

However, I'm curious as to what others think as well. And since I missed posting last night's article... I figured I'd share that "fun to write story" to make it up to you. Then, when you feel compelled to comment, there is a place you can click to do that (just below the article).

Well... here is the article I posted Sunday, July 27, 2008 at MySpace

WHY I DON'T TRUST SURVEYS AND THE IRONY OF MY OPINION

I use surveys and statistics just like everyone else, except I don't depend on them to make my final decisions. When you get right to it, surveys and statistics are based on opinions and information collected from an extremely small percentage of the world's population. Or, at the very least, a small percentage of the population of an area the survey subject matter results might affect. Take for instance:

Newspaper survey:

Number of printed issues sold by said publisher equals ___?

Times the average number of people who read the survey article ___?

Plus the number of people who read the online survey article ___?

Comes up with the number of people who read the Survey Questions ___?

Now out of all those readers, how many people actually responded to the survey?

The percentage you find is an extremely small percentage of the readers of said publication.

Then you have to take into consideration the mental state of mind of each person who responded to the survey. What type of mood were they in and how honest were their answers? Are they optimists or pessimists? Were their answers based on logic or emotions, or just going with flow of the general public opinion? Would you follow the advice of such a small percentage of those who read newspapers?

I prefer to review all available material I can find and base my opinions and advice on what I perceive to be fact. Of course, the self-doubting voice within says I shouldn't even bother publishing my opinion on survey results. It says that my opinion is a verrrry small percentage of the readers of my article especially when you divide my readers by the population my views could affect. But my inner angel tells me to forget that talk and do it anyway.

I think I made the right decision. It has attracted your attention. You have read this far into my article. And you are about to decide (or have already decided) that reading this article was beneficial to you or a waste of your time.

But, before you stop reading… my self-doubting voice and my inner angel want me to ask your opinion on which you think was correct in their advice to me.

So, in an effort to control the turmoil inside my head, I have prepared a few surveys in an effort to hear your opinions. After all, I believe that everyone should speak his or her own mind. The more we share… the better our world becomes. Your honest opinions matter to me and my other readers.

Everyone who answers the survey questions and provides comments (below) and their email address (email me at gfb3survey@yahoo.com) will have access to the survey results. All you have to do is ask and I'll tell you where to go.

SURVEY QUESTIONS
YOUR ANSWERS

Did you get this survey in an email from me?
Yes/No

Did you get this survey from it being forwarded by a friend?
Yes/No

Have you or will you forward this survey to someone else?
Yes/No

Did you read this survey online? Yes/No

How many people did you discuss this survey with?
______

How many people did you email this survey?
______

How many people do you know?
______

How many people do you consider to be your friend?
______

How many people live in your city or town?
______

How many people live in your state?
______

Do you consider yourself to be mentally stable?
Yes/No

Are you in a good mood or a bad mood?
Good/Bad

Are you an optimist?
Yes/No

Are you a pessimist?
Yes/No

Are you being honest in your answers?
Yes/No

Are your answers based on logic?
Yes/No

Are your answers based on emotions?
Yes/No

Are your answers based on general opinion?
Yes/No

Do you follow the advice of survey participants?
Yes/No

Do you use material other than surveys to make decisions?
Yes/No

Do you have a self-doubting voice trying to change your opinion?
Yes/No

Do you have an inner angel who supports your opinions?
Yes/No

Do you often follow your self-doubting voice?
Yes/No

Do you often ignore your inner angel?
Yes/No

Do you think I made the right decision to publish this article?
Yes/No

Do you think this article has attracted your attention?
Yes/No

Do you think this article was beneficial to you?
Yes/No

Do you think this article was humorous or informative?
Yes/No

Do you think this article was a waste of your time?
Yes/No

Do you often speak your own mind?
Yes/No

Do you believe sharing your opinions can improve the world?
Yes/No

Do you believe sharing your opinions can help your friends?
Yes/No

Do you believe others' opinions improve your life?
Yes/No

Do you believe honest opinions are valuable to you?
Yes/No

Will you be posting a comment on my web page?
Yes/No

Will you be emailing gfb3survey@yahoo.com (me) your info?
Yes/No

Do you want access to this survey's results?
Yes/No

I appreciate your cooperation of helping me in my efforts to improve the world by sharing your opinions and comments with all my developer readers and me.

The irony of it all is that I am utilizing a survey to prove my point.

However, I believe what will be revealed in this survey is superior to other surveys. That is because you are one of a limited number of people who will answer these questions.

I (and others who thought of you when they read this article) believe in your opinions and value what you can share to lift someone else's day every day.

When you get right down to it, the results of this survey and the statistics revealed will be based on opinions and information collected from an extremely small percentage of the world's population. That makes you and your friends unique. Take for instance:

Number of people I emailed this article
___?

Plus the number of people who got this survey forwarded to them
___?

Plus the number of people who read the online survey article
___?

Comes up with the number of people who read the Survey Questions
___?

You are one of a select number of people who will have the opportunity to share your opinion because I believe in you and the people you wish to share this with.

One more thing… in an effort to improve the quality of surveys, I encourage you to voice your opinions in surveys, newspapers, magazines, and all types of media that you have an interest. Don't let it stop there… voice your opinions in all matters of your personal, business and social interests. Share your expertise with as many people as you can.

The more people who take action… the quicker the world becomes a better place to live. People sharing means people are at peace. Spread the peace by sharing your mind with us.

I'm looking forward to you giving us a piece of your mind.

But don't stop there… share this with someone else who you believe can improve the world by sharing their opinions.

Since there are only a limited number of people who will be sharing their minds with us… that makes all who receive this survey special. So make sure you ask to receive the results of this survey by sending me your email address to gfb3survey@yahoo.com

Remember… you have a voice that should be heard.

Consultant Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
Advocating Personal, Business and Social Development
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Secret Foundations for Achieving Success

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Developers:

Last week I said that I would share with you the secret to achieving success today.

Well... here it is today and I've found my notes and some internet sites you may find interesting. But that will be later...

Many people who try and try... repeatedly... to achieve their goals and fail... repeatedly... are caving in on their own fears and are not preparing and acting on achieving their goals properly.

Most of them fail because they do not have enough faith in themselves... have not consulted or partnered with all who are capable to achieve the goals... nor have they established a pattern to follow to accomplish their goals.

One of the ancient writings (I read years ago) gives great insight into the secret pattern for achieving success. Here are some excerpts... (do you know anyone who may need to read this?):

"The Devil is ever a God of refusal."

"For the Wise, Heaven is the Supreme Reason, and Hell is Folly."

"the imagination, abandoned to all the caprices of over-excited and diseased nerves, fills itself with Monsters and absurd visions."

"But learn to triumph thyself over Fear by Wisdom, and the Spirits will descend from Heaven to serve thee."

"Happy is he who comprehendeth the Letters and the Numbers."

"The Schema is one, its columns are two, its power is three, its form is four, its reflection giveth eight, which multiplied by three giveth unto thee the twenty-four Thrones of Wisdom."

The Key of Solomon

I interpret the basic pattern to be this:

Schema = Thought or Idea

Columns = Support and Direction

Power = Bond or Attraction

Form = Plan or Pattern

Reflection = Duplication or Reproduction

Wisdom = Past + Present + Future and Knowledge Applied & Adjusted

The same pattern applies in biology:

Schema = Beginning > Nucleus

Columns = Structure > Double Helix

Power = Bond > Ester

Form = Shape > Chromosome

Reflection = Replication > Reproduction

Wisdom = Reasoning > Past-Present-Future

Finally, this pattern applies to achieving your project development goals:

Schema = Thought or Idea > Conceptualization & Project Scope

Columns = Support and Direction > Schematic Design & Idealistic Principles

Power = Bond or Attraction > Design Development & Team of Experts Needed

Form = Plan or Pattern > Construction Documents & Business Plan

Reflection = Duplication or Reproduction > Construction & Operations

Wisdom = Past + Present + Future > Maintenance, Expansion, and Modifications

However, there are other factors that affect the balance of achieving your goals... such as remembering and adjusting your actions and reactions regarding the positive and negative mindset for achieving anything:

Positive Attitudes v.s. Negative Attitudes:

Unity - Intelligence
defeats... Revolt - Anarchy - War

Wisdom - Harmony - Reason
defeats... Material - Evil - Decay

Understanding - Strong - Ideas
defeats... Conceal - Inertia - Mystery

Mercy - Beneficence - Imagination
defeats... Disturbed - Impurity

Justice - Zeal - Chastisement
defeats... Wrath - Sedition - Incendiary

Beauty - Harmony - Judgment
defeats... Disputers - Prejudice

Victory - Progress - Life - Sensibility
defeats... Death - Regression - Deterioration

Eternal Order - Inner-sense
defeats... Jugglers - Chaos - Disorder

Fecundity - Abundance - True Ideas
defeats... Debauchery - Fears - Limitations

Forms - Virile - Purity
defeats... Wicked - Impurity

This information is just a part (a major part) of the puzzle that will allow you to organize the chaos that tend to arise while working towards accomplishing your goals.

All I'm doing is sharing wisdom that has been passed down through the centuries from mouth to ear... before it was committed to the written word.

It is up to you to take the original words... the interpretations and similarities and patterns I've pointed out and adapt them for your project... so you may accomplish your goals.

How these secrets relate to your goals varies according to what you want to accomplish. When you need help converting your ideas into your plans for success... and you get to a hurdle or hiccup or a dead-end that seems to be preventing you from achieving what you want... ask me for help... and we'll discuss your situation.

I appreciate anything you wish to share about how these factors influence whether or not you succeed to achieve your goal.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
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Everybody Dreams – But Do You Have Goals?

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Developers:

Tonight I thought I would share with you something I posted on MySpace on May 21, 2008:

""The wish is the father of thoughts", so they say in the Netherlands!"

A woman living in the Netherlands shared those words with me over an Internet chess game the other day. Nice woman.

I met her after she accepted my challenge to play her a game of chess. I've met many people who share my love of chess. The internet allows me to play them no matter where they live in the world.

She and I had been discussing my desire to return to Enewetak Atoll to vacation with my wife. Ever since I left the atoll in 1980, I've wanted to visit it again.

But truthfully, I never considered it a goal.

Until that conversation… over a chess game… with a woman on the other side of the world…that thought was just a dream. It was something nice to dream about.

I am currently considering it as a goal. But I'm not sure about the priority I should give it. Dreams have no priority… so they are rarely achieved.

Goals have priorities. Achieving your goals depend on how much you consider it to be a priority. How important do you consider your goal to be?

Are you wiling to do what it takes to achieve your goals? Do you know what it takes to achieve your goals? Again… How important do you consider your goal to be?

I have many goals. I have achieved many goals: Personal Goals – Business Goals – Social Goals. And… I have helped others achieve their goals.

One of my personal goals is to improve my chess playing skills. But, I am not willing to do what it takes to achieve success quickly.

To achieve my goal in the most efficient manner… I should read books and use computer tutoring software programs and more.

I prefer to learn by playing with higher rated chess players who can tolerate playing me with the mistakes I make. There have been several players who have suggested books and web sites to visit before I challenge them again.

However, many have commented that my ratings are too low and do not reflect my chess playing skills. I agree. I have learned much from players who have accepted my challenges and from those who have also challenged me.

Most of the people I have met at GameKnot are very nice and have improved my chess playing skills. Some enjoy chatting during our games. Some do not. I respect their choices. I enjoy every game… win or lose.

Your choice to convert your dream into a reality depends on how important your goal is to you. I play chess to challenge my mind while taking unscheduled breaks from my normal routine. I consider it a constructive way to take a break.

My normal routine revolves around and supports my other goals. Goals that are more important to me. Goals dedicated to improve my life and anyone else I may help… directly and indirectly.

You can help by sharing my articles with people you believe could benefit from the subject matter and information I share with you.

Writing these articles and sharing them with all who are interested in developing a better life for you and the world in which we live is a top priority to me.

I have much to share after living almost 50 years on this planet. And there is so much more for me to learn from you and others before my 120th birthday.

I have Dreams and I have Goals. You have Dreams and You have Goals.

Realize that dreams without priorities are unachievable goals. Their only value are the pleasant thoughts you feel when you think of them and the interesting conversations you share with others. Nothing more.

You have Ideas… convert them into Plans…then take the appropriate Action to achieve your Goals. Schedule your success by making your goals a priority on your daily work and activity schedule.

If you need help getting started, send me an email. Tell me what your goals are… what you are doing to accomplish them… and why you are not achieving your goals.

Until next time…

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developer's Advocate
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Its Not Your Fault That You Are Confused

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Developers:

I've met some very confused people during my lifetime.

And for years I had no idea why they were so confused.

They seemed to be very intelligent to me, but something always seemed to keep them from realizing their potential.

Then, one day the reason... the how... the why... humanity is so confused became clear to me.

I was reading one of my favorite books when the answer jumped out at me... I had read it before, but it had never "spoken" to me like this until that moment.

No matter where I go and meet people, I see so much intelligence and insight within each of them. However, many of them do not see it in themselves. They are confused.

I believe that there should be peace on earth and the only way that can be achieved is by reclaiming clarity of thought by seeking and accepting help from other people.

One of my greatest wishes it that the curse put on humanity many years ago be cast aside. Fear and distrust and a focus on the differences of mankind keeps humanity from achieving any goal it wants to accomplish.

I prefer to agree with Nelson Mandela who pointed out that...

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

That is not the quote I told you I was reading that explained to me why humanity is so confused.

This is that quote... from the Book of Genesis in the Holy Bible

"6And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.

7Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech.

8So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city.

9Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth."

The part that people pay attention to the most in this quote is the differences.

That attitude encourages separation because we fail to see the common traits that bond each of us.

The part of the quote that is often ignored or overlooked is...

"Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do." - The Lord

Once we recognize our weaknesses and work with others... whose strengths... combined with our strengths... give us the ability to achieve anything we desire.

What do you want to accomplish?

Who will you partner with to insure success?

Do you see your future any clearer now that you know you can achieve your goals?

Remember, the breath of life is that spark of energy inside each and every cell. You can achieve because you carry the same spirit as everyone else. (That is another topic for a future article.)

Who are we to doubt our talents... our capabilities... our limits... when we network with others?

After all... He did say that "NOTHING WILL BE RESTRAINED FROM" YOU!

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate

p.s. - What quotes do you know that support what I've shared with you? Add them to the comments section below so all of us can look past our differences and attain clarity of thought together. - gfb3
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Improving Personal (Self) Development

*
Developers:

My wife texted me this afternoon with the following message:

"Do you want to go out to eat tonight? My treat."

Of course I texted her back:

k

Then she texted me:

Mexican or Roy's?

I quickly replied:

Roy's!!!

You see, Roy is my cousin. He and his wife own a restaurant in downtown Mobile Alabama. Busaba is a fabulous Thai Cuisine Chef! Her food is absolutely delicious!

I met Cheryl at the house and we drove downtown to Bienville Square and walked almost one block toBusaba's. And since I wanted to share our experience with you, I took some photos for you to see. Sorry I can't share the taste... unless... you eat there too! In the meantime... enjoy these views of downtown and the restaurant!

Before we crossed another street, I took this shot of Busaba's between two other historic buildings. The building that Busaba occupies is on The National Registry of Historic Buildings and Places.

In fact... the Historic Building Marker - a metallic shield designating it as a historic building was stolen this week. (They're offering a reward.)

Just before we walked into Busaba's, I took a look behind me at the RSA Tower above the Southern Oaks in Bienville Square and captured a shot of it for you.

We got there just in time, because it wasn't long before the restaurant started filling up.

Both Cheryl and I ordered the same thing... only I wanted "three spice" instead of "one spice."

We shared four Spring Rolls stuffed with cabbage, carrots, celery and glass noodles. I like dipping mine in the sweet & spicy sauce.

I made Cheryl wait for me to take photos of our meals before we took one single bite.

Isn't Pla Lad Prik the most appetizing fried fillet of flounder you've ever seen? Our crispy fried flounder was covered in a spicy, sweet and sour sauce with different types of onions, basil leaves, mushrooms, baby corn, carrots, etc....

Before our food arrived, my Cousin Roy dropped in from next door to help out with all the people who arrived when we did. Even though he was busy, he made it a point to drop by and chat with us at our table.

We enjoyed our food and then got caught up with each others' families and a couple of recent business ventures. Twitter was brought up (Roy knows how to write programs) and I believe he and I will be having a few more conversations before too long.

After our meal, Cheryl ordered a chilled cup of Rambutan stuffed with Pineapple. Rambutan is an exotic fruit indigenous to Thailand. I drank coffee while Roy and I continued our exchange of ideas and enthusiasm.

Roy walked us out to Cheryl's car, but not before I took a couple more pictures to share with you.

Here is Roy and Cheryl. And a look back at the RSA Tower after they turned on the lights. Sorry about the quality, it was drizzling and I think my Palm Treo fogged up. I think you still get the picture though.

As you can see... both Cheryl and I are actively working to Improve our Personal Development by doing something as simple as going out to eat at a restaurant. The bonus (among other things) was seeing Roy and Busaba too.

For those of you do not know... Cheryl and I have recently become "empty nesters." Our youngest daughter no longer lives with us and we've adjusted by going out more often.

It could be worse... I might have had to pay for tonight's dinner instead of Cheryl.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
Advocating Personal, Business and Social Development
*

A Philosophy even an Atheist Can Agree With

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Developers:

When I was younger, I had an explosive temper. I don't know if it was because I got picked on about being shorter than others my age, or because I had an overbite. Or it could have been because I responded to the other children's taunting me and they got a big thrill about seeing me react.

In over three years' time, braces pulled my teeth back into my mouth. Then at eighteen, my height and body transformed from looking like an early teen to a young adult.

At my May 1976 high school graduation, I stood 5'-2" and weighed 122 pounds. A year later, I stood 5'-8" and weighed 135 pounds. I was growing out of shirts so fast it scared me.

However, I noticed people were treating me differently... nicer. Now don't get me wrong, most of the children did not treat me cruel. I had several groups of friends I associated with that did not pick on me. Sometimes they'd get aggravated when I would talk with children in "other" groups and threaten me with "not being my friend if I was going to continue talking with so-or-so."

I usually replied that my friends were of my choosing and if they did not want to be my friend, that was their choice.

Most all backed down from their challenge and prejudices. In fact I don't remember anyone who chose not to be my friend.

A couple of months ago I came across a quote from someone who made a living by exploiting the physical differences in some of humanity's unique people. But to read his quote, you would never guess his name or his occupation.

Most of you will recognize his name, but I'm curious as to whether you know much more about the man and the many great things he achieved in his life.

"A human soul is not to be trifled with. It may inhabit the body of a Chinaman, a Turk, an Arab or a Hotentot - it is still an immortal spirit!" - name withheld for now

Reading this bit of information reminded me of something I wrote in 1999. It is something I thought about writing when I was old enough to recognize how hypocritical many organized church members were... and the double standard lives they lived.

In all fairness... I was not exempt from living my life the way I had chosen... but it seemed as though my choices (that influenced others) was not potentially harmful.

However, I apologize if I was incorrect in my evaluation. Please forgive my thoughtlessness.

I have a long standing habit of reading. Many of my childhood memories are of me reading about so many subjects, I can't possibly list them in the time I've scheduled to write this article on how I believe we should interact with each other.

For several years I have increased my time writing thoughts and ideas to share with whomever would pick up copies in public places.

Almost every day I've inserted printouts of various writings in newspapers and magazines I've read and left on tables and seats in restaurants and office waiting areas.

Several people have thanked me for sharing my thoughts and have told me they have shared it with others they know at work, church and home. I've met many who have shared their stories about how reading it has brightened their lives.

Here it is for your insight into my philosophy of life... share it with whomever you wish. I can email you a pdf copy if you ask.



Please share with me and my readers your stories and viewpoints. Your thoughts may help someone you know and/or do not know.

Develop someone's life today... begin with your own and then everyone you love.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
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Networking on Social Sites - Twitter.com Spotlight

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Developers:

Regardless of who you are... you network every day.

You have your circle of friends, acquaintances, and family members.

When you go to a family gathering, a business party, or a community event... you network.

You see people you haven't seen in some time... you drift from one person to another... to a group of people off in their own corner of the room... to the center of activity of the event.

The Internet provides many places to do the same thing... from the comfort of your own home. You can sit and chat with many people all at the same time... just by watching your fingers dance on the keyboard and intently watching your computer screen for a response to a comment or a question, or an update that you haven't heard about.

Most of you have used or have at least heard of some of the internet web sites that enable you to secretly sit in your bathrobe while you are carrying on the most dignified conversation a person can have with your local congressman, pastor, grocer, boss, employees, coworkers, grandparent or children.

Early in the internet age... there were bulletin boards, discussion groups, newsgroups, etc.... where you could find and/or exchange information with those who utilized these internet resources.

Now there is FaceBook, MySpace, LinkedIn, Classmates, Google, and many others. But tonight... I want to tell you about the social networking internet website called Twitter.

I was invited to join by a favorite internet marketing consultant I've been "studying." Or as you would say while on the Twitter web site... "following."

As soon as I signed up for my free membership... I checked it out and found it to be a great resource!

There was no hesitation... in spite of twitter's growing pains... their membership seems to be growing in leaps and bounds. I believe it is expanding so fast that the computer wizards behind the blue curtain are having a hard time keeping the gremlins out of the computer gears.

Some of my early information on twitter seems to have disappeared, and some of my followers have vanished into a virtual reality never-never-land. Who is to say I'll never see them again?

But in my mind... the benefits outweigh the (temporary) hardships by a ton. I see the site as a great resource. It is a think-tank, a market opinion place, a mentoring resource, an information exchange, and more... all rolled into one web site.

In exchange... most want you to look at what they are working on... regardless of who you are or what type of work you do, or what type of environment you grew up or are in at the moment. They could be tweeting about their next informational product... or seminar... or book.

Sometimes you get the chance to find out stuff that no one else knows about yet... like the earthquake that occurred yesterday in Southern California. I was barely signed in on twitter when I started seeing messages and photos of the event as it was happening... first person stories and information. Today, the Los Angeles Times published an article about twitter and the earthquake.

Your personality shows through in your messages. However, twitter forces you to make your messages short... 140 characters or less... otherwise more than one update is needed. Anyone who knows me can tell you... 140 characters or less is a challenge to me.

It is also a place to gain trust in those who share freely whatever information you are looking for. Or... from your cell phone... instead of sending a text message to each person you know... it is one place you can send a message so any curious family members (or concerned friends) will know what you are doing when you want to share that info.

I asked several twitterville citizens what they thought about twitter and how it is benefiting them. Then I asked the general population of twitterland how twitter is improving their personal, business and social lives.

Many people told me they would provide me a quote, but only two stepped up and followed through with their offers. Some did not get the request at all because of twitter's growing pains. I know I am missing some of my early discussions. It's all good though.

You can see that MichaelDWalker aka http://twitter.com/MichaelDWalker and JeanetteJoy aka http://twitter.com/JeanetteJoy sent me their comments about how useful Twitter is to them. (Click on the ScreenShot images to see what they wrote.)

There are many opportunities during our lives to share our time, talents and skills. We just have to use what we have at the moment to get the most productive results. And there are plenty of ways to get very productive results on twitter. You just have to look... or take the time to find out where to look.

Take for instance... a milestone in my stepping stone to building my internet presence on twitter... achieving 100 followers felt good.

[2/23/2009 Update: I just now took a look and noticed there are 1,084 twitterzens currently following me.]

More than likely, there must have been a reason why I had problems with a computer program on my computer: Last night's scheduled posting of this article was too early for me to have captured my 100 followers achievement for you to see.

My screenshot program mysteriously started working this evening. As you can see for yourself.

I could go on and on about the benefits of twitter, but you need to check it out for yourself.

When you get there... follow me... and my followers... and who I'm following. Just click here or copy and paste http://twitter.com/gfb3 into your URL area and sign up.

Until next time...

Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
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Real Estate - What is being said and done about the Situation

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Developers:

The current real estate market and condition of the economy is a hot topic of discussion in most every publication you find.

Everywhere you go, you hear people talking about it... heatedly.

I'm sure you have strong opinions about the situation as well.

It seems as though everyone is pointing fingers at everyone from the government, the stock market, the banking industry, the appraisers, to the people who signed mortgage papers, to the construction workers and material expenses.

Then there is the issue of the natural disasters and the insurance companies who everyone gambled would be there to rescue them, but were greeted with attorneys who were hired with the money you expected to receive to get your life back to normal. (I'll save the insurance issue for a future blog post.)

I'm not going to point any fingers at any one cause of this situation. However, I will point you to a few bits of insight I've found on the internet and add my three cent solution for a partial correction that I have not heard anyone mention.

First off... I read in yesterday's Mobile Press-Register: "Landmark Housing Legislation - Homeowner Rescue Passed by Senate; Bush to Sign it - Some 400,000 people will be enabled to refinance into easier U.S. Backed Loans."

Homeowners are happy about that news... but keep in mind that all of us have paid taxes into the federal government and are paying for this (yet another) bailout in an already strapped economy.

I'm not going to explain the details of what is written in the legal papers in D.C. but you can view the details by entering H.R. 3221 in the "Search Bill Text" box at the Library of Congress web site to read it for yourself.

While the U.S. citizens are waiting for H.R. 3221 to jump through all the government's legal hoops... there is an organization called "Hope Now" that you can contact when faced with possible foreclosure.

However, if you have already lost your home to a foreclosure... the IRS has decided to get step up to take some of the sting out of your taxes. Just go to the IRS web site and enter Foreclosure Tax Relief in the search box at the top of the page to find out what the IRS can do for you.

Of course, you might be looking at this situation as being an opportunity to increase your real estate holdings and profit from other people's misfortunes.

I'm not going to tell you where you can find opportunities (at least not in this particular blog article)... you can do that task on your own.

And... according to how you present yourself to the people who are losing or have lost their family homes... you may be viewed as anything between a White Knight in Shining Armor to an Evil Demon from the Depths of the Underworld.

Then to make matters worse... (as if that could be perceived)... President Bush was caught on camera during a private fund-raiser on July 18 in Texas talking candidly about the current economic condition.

Most everyone was laughing and joking about the situation and what the President was saying about Wall Street real estate strategies and practices leading up to the economic downturn and adjustment.

Remember when you view this that behind every joke there is a serious fact behind the laughter. Make sure you take a look for yourself and listen to the words President Bush used and the meanings behind them. He actually says quite a bit when you read between the lines and words he chooses.



You can get involved by voicing your concerns in your local newspapers, activity groups, special interest organizations and every on-line resource you have an interest. But before you speak... review the facts. Do not repeat what others are saying, speak your own words.

When you visit the federal government web sites I've listed above... look for the sections that ask for your opinion and involvement. Then take the actions you believe will lead to improving your life and the lives of others you know (and do not know).

Oh... I did mention that I had a suggestion that may help in our economic recovery... it is simple.

As most of us know... the federal government requires banks to maintain a certain percentage of their patrons' cash to remain liquid and are prohibited from using that percent of their holdings in their normal investments.

I say that the banks should be given a sliding scale as to how much money they should be prohibited from investing. Financial institutions with the most defaults should maintain a greater percentage of liquid assets than the financial institutions with the lowest defaults.

I am not an attorney nor am I an accountant, but to me... this seems to have a built in success factor.

Quit playing the blame game and let my readers and me know what you would (or will) do to improve this situation.

One last thing... make sure you base all your financial decisions on logic and not emotions. Make sure you do not agree to a loan that you can not prove is within your budget. Don't take chances on your family's security and comfort.

Until next time...

Consultant Girard Frank Bolton, III.
The Developers Advocate
Advocating the Improvement of Personal, Business and Social Development
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