Long Island Coastal Homes

Ken Daniel, of Security Advisors Worldwide, or SAW, a renewable energy security advisory company contracted by Jetstream Wind, Inc. recently returned from the island of Haiti.    

I understand that you and Security Advisors Worldwide had a very successful trip to Haiti.  There doesn’t seem to be a great deal of media coming from this nation as to the daily lives of Haitians, the environmental issues they face, or the energy issues they’re looking at.

So that we can have a better picture, can you begin by talking about what it’s like for average citizens in Haiti on any given day?

Mr. Ken Daniel: 

On an average morning in Haiti, people there don’t wake up to the possibility of electricity like we do here. They pretty much use coal to warm themselves in the morning. There also aren’t the refrigeration capabilities like here in the states, so they walk to the market everyday to get whatever food they can prepare and eat that given day.

As far as the issue of water goes, in the capitol of Port-au-Prince there was some running water, and I would see people on the exteriors of buildings filling up their water containers. But out in the rural areas, it’s more difficult and being pumped out of wells.

Along the roadways are fifty-five gallon plastic drums filled with water. Haitian citizens basically walk some distances to these to get their daily water since there aren’t many vehicles owned by private citizens.

There’s obviously not a large availability of electricity in Haiti, which seems odd in this day and age. Where does this issue stem from?

Ken: 

There’s a hydro-plant that rests in-between Port-au-Prince and Hesh. It was actually built by Americans in the early part of the last century and has been around for a very long time. Put simply, it’s just old and doesn’t kick out enough power.

All of the power lines that we take for granted here in the US, actually have cobwebs growing on them in Haiti. And then, with the bad weather, hurricanes and such, there were numerous poles leaning at 45 degree angles with wires coming out of them.

The only real power was in the capitol of Port-au-Prince and it goes off regularly. Mostly though, what I saw were people with candles and bags of coal to cook their food. Really, unless you are a person with a little bit of money and can afford to be affluent, you can’t rely on the comfort of being able to depend on electricity.

With the hurricane situation, the lack of food and good shelter, renewable energy quite possibly could be the key to bringing in some the needed electricity to help with the situation.

This would be the first renewable energy technology being developed on an island, which is monumental. Would it be more difficult creating wind, solar, or hydrogen power on an island in the middle of the ocean as opposed to it being developed on a mainland?

Ken: 

In this particular place, almost everything that is needed can literally be brought to the land. With hydrogen technology for example, an area of land is cleared where it won’t require much manipulation as this technology is easily able to be placed. An added benefit to that is there won’t be any deforestation.

With solar technology, another small piece of land within a vast spread of land is cleared and the technology placed upon it. Lines won’t have to be ran over long expanses of land for fuels, diesel, or natural gas. There won’t ever be an oil spill or pipes in the ground that corrode.

So it doesn’t seem to be too difficult. Exporting equipment out of the United States and importing to an island would be the main issue to be dealt with. Jetstream Wind would have to look at building an airstrip so that they can cargo fly equipment in. Most building materials would have to be imported from the U.S., which is 300 miles off the coast of Miami, and would either come in by cargo plane or shipped in by sea.

It would be a benefit to take the time and see if there was anything available on the island that can readily be used, salvaged and recycled.

The terrain in Haiti (being an island) is more than acceptable. There are mountains, which means the wind is constantly blowing across them. There’s plenty of sunshine shining on the hills that are vast, rounded and able to be navigated. Even the new hydrogen technology can easily be implemented there.

If Haiti were to bring renewable energy in, it could be put anywhere. It wouldn’t have to be placed in a major metropolitan area, and the power from the renewable energy plant(s) could run to the pre-existing grid. The hope would be, however that Haiti itself would help to re-build the infrastructure so that all of this power could get to the homes, schools, hospitals, businesses and other places where electricity is vitally needed.

The truth is that they would have to wait far longer to get any other type of an energy program in, such as coal for example. There are also some pretty severe issues with deforestation happening at present, and so I would think that renewable energy is really the only way to go for Haiti right now.

Looking at the environmental impact of renewable energy on Haiti, would you say that there would be any, at all, created from this technology?

Ken: 

As compared to a coal-fired plant here in the United States, no, other than having to clear small pieces of land to put things on.

There are many countries that simply have to have energy right now, and this is by far the cleanest way to get it. Nuclear is not the answer. It leaves a long-standing residue as a result of that power. Natural gas and coal also lead to numerous environmental concerns.

The fact is that we can’t rely on oil for our needs any longer and I don’t want to see any more damaging changes in the land. This won’t. And the residue from this technology won’t be a bigger burden for the Earth. What’s cleaner than water?

But it really doesn’t matter what country it’s in as far as getting the renewables to work for people. It’s the technology that Jetstream Wind has that hits the central point of this whole thing. In other words, if the technology can get there and the transmission lines can get ran, then this can work almost anywhere.

Working through the issues of basic infrastructure, transmission, politics, and environment, a company like Jetstream Wind is the right answer for those people.

Did the Haitian government welcome you and the possibility of a Jetstream Wind collaboration?

Ken: 

Yes. I was treated very well. I was able to meet with the US Ambassador to Haiti, the advisor to the President of Haiti, several Prime Ministers, and the necessary others that would become involved should we all come together and build a renewable plant there.

Other than simple barriers with the French-Creole language, it was a very successful meeting and everyone was excited. It went from one meeting to five or six, with them wanting me to speak with as many leaders as possible in my short time there.

This is a major project of which Jetstream Wind would probably want to share some sort of responsibility. How deeply would the country of Haiti be involved and responsible in re-powering their nation?

Ken: 

The United States created a bailout for the auto industry. The country of Haiti will possibly need to create a financial bailout for their energy problem. They’re probably going to have to put some money into the system to start readying themselves for this type of project.

Having the years of experience in large military operations, I’ve learned to back-plan for anything. In other words, I can see the end result, but before I can get there I have to first go all the way back to where it begins. It begins by asking questions…a lot of them.

In order for renewable energy to be a reality in Haiti, the Haitian government has to ask themselves some questions so that Jetstream Wind and Security Advisors Worldwide can do our jobs.

How will they find the necessary people needed for this large of a project? How will they train these people? Where are the people located and where is the transportation going to come from to move these people? How will they communicate?

There is a lot of work to be done from taking out old transmission lines and putting in new ones, to breaking ground on the energy plant itself. Power poles will be placed on every block. New construction companies will be built, taking into account everything that goes with that including the huge amount of labor needed.

We can also take into account the education necessary to work with a project of this type, creating a national boost in knowledge. Anything from taking down a power line to managing a company with the large workforce will have to be covered.

It’s not only about the end result of the plant supplying renewable energy to the people. It also includes the entire scope of the process beginning with Haiti’s choice and ability to prepare for it.

In seeing the potential, meeting the representatives, and observing the culture, what is the one thing that you come back with?

Ken: 

I come back with the insight that the country of Haiti is only a two and half hour flight from Miami. It’s not so far away that we can’t touch it with our assistance.

Little kids are walking distances, carrying the water they needed for the day. You have to remember we as a human race have also been to the moon. We’re building a space station. How is it possible that an island, so close to the United States is in the situation it is?

This has the capacity of creating and developing a whole new job infrastructure and economy. It is a prime example of renewable energy quickly effecting the situation for the better.

The capability is there to get it done. The land is there, the people are motivated, and the technology is ready to go. With the help of the Haitians in getting the infrastructure ready, a whole new way of life can arise from this for the people of Haiti, and also the same possibility for other people and nations all over the world.

What strikes me the most from our conversation about renewable energy is its ability to cross borders, boundaries, cultures, political policies, and even world religions without leaving heavy footprints of various unwanted agendas.  

Thank you once again, Ken, for sharing this information showing how people and technology can come together to create a clean, economically stable world for our future and our children’s futures. 

Click here if you would like more information about Security Advisors Worldwide (SAW).

Ornesha  De Paoli

Green Ascension ~ Evolving People on an Evolving Planet

Ornesha De Paoli
http://www.articlesbase.com/news-and-society-articles/can-renewable-energy-power-islands-like-haiti-705671.html

Folly Beach, South Carolina is a picturesque small beach town that is fondly known as “The Edge of America”. Folly Beach is a barrier island that is 6 miles long, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Folly River. Folly Beach is conveniently located just 8 miles from great restaurants and awesome sightseeing in beautiful, historic downtown Charleston.

Many individuals looking for a beach community home choose Folly Beach real estate because they enjoy the laid back, slow paced lifestyle Folly embraces. Signs on Folly Beach streets implore drivers to “Slow Down! Relax! It’s Folly Beach!”. For those prospective home buyers with a bit of Bohemian in them, Folly Beach is a quintessential beach town.

You won’t find shopping malls and big-box stores on Folly Beach. What you will find are interesting and unique shops, great places to sample the delicious Lowcounrty cuisine, a remarkable fishing pier and the opportunity to observe pelicans fishing and dolphins playing. Folly Beach is also an excellent location for surfers. It is considered one of the finest shorelines for surfing on the East Coast. The Washout on Folly hosts competitive surfing events every year.

Folly Beach real estate offers buyers a very diverse selection of properties to fit all tastes. Looking for an oceanfront villa? There are magnificent homes for sale on Folly where the beach and ocean is your backyard. Enjoy water, but don’t care to live on the ocean? Folly Beach has many homes on the Folly River and marsh lands. Several of these properties also feature boat docks for convenient fishing and recreation. Prefer the amenities of condo living instead? Folly Beach has outstanding condominium developments; many right on the ocean.

Living on Folly Beach provides residents with the opportunity to view not only gorgeous East Coast sunrises, but also amazing and colorful sunsets. Another great attraction of Folly Beach is that it offers fun things to do for all age groups. Adults and teens have plenty of options; sailing, boating, parasailing, shopping, lounging on the deck of a restaurant enjoying Lowcountry specialties, enjoying the spectacular views from the Edwin S. Taylor fishing pier, or simply lying on the beach, soaking up the sun. For kids, Folly Beach presents wonderful opportunities for surfing, fishing, water-skiing, biking, wildlife watching and a popular 600 acre county park.

Buyers looking to purchase Folly Beach real estate are attracted by the year-round mild climate, vibrant local economy, low crime rate, choice of quality schools, reliable local government and eclectic residents. Many homes on Folly are surrounded by towering oak trees and beautiful palmetto palm trees, making Folly Beach a favored destination for home buyers seeking great views and good value.

Chuck Jaymes
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/have-you-discovered-folly-beach-real-estate-112312.html

Each summer on Corfu it’s possible to see the ‘King’ perform all his (and your) old favourites one more time. From “Heartbreak Hotel” to “Suspicious Minds”, from “Blue Suede Shoes” to “I Can’t Help Falling in Love”, my good friend Oresti Kovi, Corfu’s Elvis impersonator extraordinaire, dressed to the tens and sporting a pompadour hair style and mutton-chop sideburns, croons the legendary tunes five nights a week with style and penache in packed bars and nightclubs.

Over the past couple of years, Oresti’s Elvis act has become quite an event, and if imitation is the highest form of flattery, then Oresti is flattered by a number of those imitating the imitator: Elvis acts have popped up all over Corfu during the past couple of summers, though it is Oresti’s lively performance that seems to fill the bars and clubs night after night. When one talks about Elvis here on Corfu, we all know who they’re talking about: Oresti Kovi.

Even though this faux Elvis enjoys more than a little recognition these days, it has not always been so for him. Born and raised in Albania, Oresti Kovi came to Corfu fifteen years ago. The means by which he arrived were not only unconventional, but quite extraordinary.

One night, along with four friends, he set out to swim across the straight that separates Corfu from the Albanian mainland. From Kassiopi, one can easily see Oresti’s hometown of Seranda, and on a clear day, one can even see many details, such as individual buildings, the newly constructed landing strip, or a church spire. Indeed, the distance across the straight does not appear to be long, and in fact it is only about four miles from shore to shore. As the five young, fit men in their early twenties entered the water that night, they must have thought the swim would be an easy one, and that they would soon be celebrating their arrival on Corfu. Sadly, only two of the five survived the waters that night.

Fifteen years ago, the advantages of living in Greece, as opposed to living in Albania, were more than obvious, not only to Oresti, but to many Albanians who left their homes and came to live in Greece, particularly here on Corfu. These days it is estimated that there are no fewer than five thousand native Albanians living on the island, and that figure may indeed be too low. Living here on Corfu, one is certain to make the acquaintance of any number of Albanian ex-pats. I myself know many. And while it certainly was true fifteen years ago that the disparity in quality of life on these two not-so-distant shores was, shall we say, world’s apart, my friend Oresti tells me that today he’s not so sure anymore that Greece offers the promise and economic advantage that he was once willing to risk his life to sample.

Oresti’s history on Corfu has been both a varied and colourful one. During his first years spent on Corfu, he worked during the tourist season as a waiter. He never earned much money waiting tables, and when winter came, he searched out odd jobs to survive. Such a scenario is the rule rather than the exception for many if not most Albanian immigrants to Corfu. My friend Cosmos, for example, (also Albanian and a longtime resident of Corfu), is part of a troupe of Greek dancers that performs aboard cruise ships all during the summer season, but during winter this very talented, and very spirited, young man survives by picking up painting jobs when he can. On any day in San Rocco Square in Corfu Town, one can see scores of young Albanian men gathered there to sell their labour to anyone willing to give them a day’s work, and the rate at which they are paid is nothing less than pathetic. Though their presence is tolerated here on Corfu, these young men are reduced to a class only slightly better than slaves, usually doing the hard physical labour that their Greek hosts and employers would rather not do themselves, or pay the going rate to a Greek workman. Besides being condemned to live as economic outcasts, Albanian immigrants on Corfu all too often suffer prejudicial stereotyping, if not outright verbal abuse. To say the least, life is not everything these immigrants had hoped it might be; on the contrary, many have grown bitter, or returned to their native country, humble though it may still be.

The winter that I first met Oresti Kovi, he had not yet begun doing his Elvis act. In truth, that winter we were both broke as a joke, and he and his girlfriend Teresa would come round to our apartment to visit Kelly and me. We shared simple meals as we schemed about how to survive until spring. It was during those visits that I learned about Oresti’s deep and reverent devotion to Elvis Presley. On weekends, Oresti always sang karaoke at the Navigator’s bar, but only Elvis’s songs. During that same winter, Teresa sewed Oresti’s first Elvis costume–by hand! For our part, Kelly and I helped him, via the Internet, to acquire suitable boots for his costume from a company in Texas. The boots, I remember, arrived just before his inaugural performance that spring.

Several summers have come and gone now, and Oresti has become well established as Corfu’s premier Elvis imitator. He performs at least five nights a week all during summer at several resorts across the island. Seldom is there an empty seat for his performance, and often the street outside the venue where he is playing is crowded with those waiting for a seat inside. Money is also not such a big problem for Oresti these days, as his service is in great demand during the summer tourist season. I try to catch his act at least a couple of times during summer, not so much because I’ll see something I’ve not seen before, but to renew our friendship–one that was forged during tougher times for us both. I not only respect Oresti’s courage and his creativity, I admire his stamina, his courage, and most of all his sincerity. We have become good friends over the years, and I deplore the way many Corfiots treat the Albanians who’ve come here seeking a better future for themselves and their families. Frankly, there is no excuse for it.

Unlike in years passed, Oresti does not stay on Corfu during winter, he returns to Seranda, where his mother still lives. Seldom do I have the opportunity to spend evenings with him scheming or simply sharing dinner, but all in all, his absence is for the best, I suppose. Oresti has invited me to visit him at his home in Seranda. I’ve never been to Albania, but I would like to visit some time. Perhaps I’ll have the opportunity before long. For now, though, we catch up by phone about once each month. When we do meet up again, whether next spring or sooner, I know that our friendship will be instantly renewed, as it was one forged in hardship, and in hope. We share the knowledge that we are both immigrants here, a fact that we never forget, and even as we thank the Corfiots for having us, we deplore the manner in which they treat the Albanians, many of whom have Greek ancestry.

Next time you’re on Corfu, make it a point to see Oresti’s Elvis act. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed, because anyone who reveres the ‘King’ as Oresti does, and renders the songs with respect and humility and sincerity, as he certainly does, will certainly win his way into your heart, as he has mine.

Viva Las Vegas, Oresti! And long live the King!

David A. Ross
http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/ladies-and-gentlemen-elvis-has-entered-the-building-746993.html

With most homes becoming short on space, adding a metal wine rack that hangs from your wall or ceiling makes all the difference. You now have storage space for your treasured bottles of wine as well as an aesthetic appeal. These wall racks provide us with three separate functions such as wine storage, visual decor and open work space facilitation. A wine rack is to wine as hands are to arms. They are an extension and a useful tool for your wine collection.

Metal wine racks are a sensible decision when selecting a good way to store and protect your wine collection. The very nature of the metal makes them durable, sturdy and long lasting. Since the material is metal it is often twisted into sculptures or designs unobtainable by traditional wood wine racks. These designs are then forged at high heats so the wine rack metal is almost indestructible. It requires minimal cleaning just soap and water and can be polished or dulled depending on the owners desires. They are always artistic in design and a great conversation piece. Most home owners display them prominently around the home for visual appreciation and pleasure.

Adding one to a residence can heighten the homes value and distinguish it from other homes. It can also help keep wine fresh, undisturbed and easy to access when you need it. Wine lovers will find these racks appealing and fairly priced regardless of the choice of rack.

Wall mounted metal wine racks are perfect when space is at a premium or when you wish to display a special collection above a buffet or side table. They are designed to provide the required bottle tilt for cork protection and most feature a no-roll shelving for stability. They all offer endless possibilities in terms of style and versatility.

In my dinning room I created a dramatic focal point that incorporated additional pieces of metal art work. I chose two pieces of metal art work of similar color and texture from my wine rack and mounted them on both sides of the display. It looked exceptionally impressive and everyone that sees it comments on the beauty and artistic flow of the room.

Wrought iron wine racks are some of the most traditional metal wine racks. They can be simple and elegant with straight clean lines or gracefully curvy. Wine racks made from chrome or steel are perfect for modern decor.

Solid in its construction metal, wine racks will hold the weight of several wine bottles with ease and provide a visual creative conversation piece. A popular spot for a metal wine rack has become over a kitchen island where it can stay out of the way but still adds drama to the room. Because of its highly skilled design and craftsmanship you will be looking to show off this piece just as much as your wine collection.

Wine racks are offered in a wide variety of styles, shapes and dimensions to fit just about anyone’s specifications and decor style. They are available in a plethora of sizes to hold from one bottle to hundreds of bottles.

A very important part of choosing a wine rack is the way the bottles are placed. Only choose one that will hold the bottles in a downward position. This is an important feature since wine should be stored with the neck pointing down in an effort to keep the cork from drying out and allowing air to permeate the bottle.

Some pieces have artfully crafted shaped vines that hold bottles in their proper position not only for decorative purposes but for functional attributes. This feature is ideal for choosing high quality racks.

Genuine metal wine racks make their best impression if presented in their natural color or in colors of artificially oxidized patina surface. The highest value of metal wine racks lies in its ability to keep its beauty for centuries, and not becoming a victim of daily trends.

You must ensure that the wall mounted metal wine wrack hanging from your wall is safely anchored into studs. What is important to consider is the weight the rack can safely carry. You do not want the weight of the bottles to pull it from the wall. It would be most devastating to find your wine bottles shattered on the floor.

This decorative accessory allows you to be surrounded by elegance and gives you the security to age your collection with confidence. So now let’s all raise our glass and make a toast to the perfect wine rack!

Barbara Tobiasz
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/wall-mounted-metal-wine-rack-toast-to-the-perfect-rack-693628.html

Formerly being a airline travel enthousiast, I never considered driving across the United States until an infortunate incident forced my ex-fiance and I to change our travel plans. We had flown out to Las Vegas, to attend a business convention late one night. The next morning, I turned on the television, only to find that planes had flown into the World Trade Centers in New York. It was 9/11, which devastated us and everyone around us. At Caesar’s Palace, all the tvs were tuned to the tragedy, instead of the usual horse racing or other sporting events. You could hear a pin drop as everyone watched the tragedy unfold, live. The convention closed early due to the horrible tragedy. We were given t-shirts as we left the convention center, in memory to the people who perished in New York and Pennsylvania. Fortunately for us, my ex had already rented a van to get around with, as rental cars sold out quickly when all the planes were grounded. In Las Vegas, the airport is right in the city limits, very close to the Strip. With the planes all down, all we saw was an occaisional military jet fighter circling the city now and then. It was eerie and a reminder of the possible danger to the area. We left and drove over to Los Angeles.

In Los Angeles, our spirits lifted as we visited the coastline, stopping at lovely places like Balboa Island for lunch, Laguna Beach (full of interesting boutiques and restaurants) and Dana Point, where we stayed in a beautiful oceanfront hotel. Later, we went over to Burbank, and attended the second taping of the Tonight Show, with Jay Leno. The experience was surreal, nobody felt like comedy, so the show was subdued. Jay wheeled out a motorcycle that he was going to auction off for charity, and Arnold Schwartzenegger, Tom Cruise and others came to sign it. Being in the studio was fascinating, the temperature in the large room was cold, to keep the many hot stage lights from bursting, one of the producers told us. We had front row seats, because we got in line very early. If you go, make sure to go much earlier than told to, because it takes a lot of time to park, and the line to get in is very long.

After leaving downtown L.A. we drove around Beverly Hills and Hollywood. I liked Beverly Hills, seeing the beautiful homes was my favorite. Signs were posted everywhere saying that forest fires can happen and gave a daily rating to how much of a chance there was of having one. Interesting. Some movie stars’ homes were on regular streets like yours and mine. Others were high up in the mountains, shielded by gates, high walls and ominous “keep out” signs. I don’t blame them, with all the crazy people in the world. All the posh shops were nice, but a shopping spree there was out of the question unless we won the lottery and were rich like the Hilton family – one piece of clothing could be the cost of a new car or even, house in downtown Beverly Hills. Wow. We drove all over, taking pictures, stopping at fast food places like In and Out Hamburgers and Krispy Kreme Donuts. We also stopped in lovely ethnic restaurants to eat Mexican, Thai and Indian food. The Mexican restaurants were my favorites, most were authentic and gave large portions.

We drove through the desert, going back east, saw Hoover Dam, which was immense. Because of the tragedy going on in New York, everyone there was on edge, so we weren’t allowed to stop on the bridge, just drive past it and park elsewhere. It was very scenic to see the dam, built long ago, with Art Deco influence on the well-built bridge and buildings. It was incredibly hot but the heat was dry, not humid. We drank gallons of soft drinks and bottled water to keep from being dehydrated. The vistas of tall mountains and large amounts of water being pumped by this powerful dam were really fascinating for this midwestern girl.

Our next state to visit was Utah, land of amazing rock formations and mountains. We only saw the southern part but what we saw was breathtaking. Bright red rocks jutting out of the ground, tall mountains and an endless night sky full of stars. We parked on the side of the road and watched the sky for an hour, deep in the desolate parts of the mountains. Without city lights (or any other civilization, for that matter) we could see everything, including the Milky Way. It was both beautiful and surreal at the same time. Utah is loaded with natural wonders and incredibly scenic.

Next, we drove to Colorado. It was so scenic driving up and down the mountain roads of this colorful, beautiful state. The whole state is a photographer’s dream, especially with all the colors of the fall.The aspen trees were turning yellow, since it was now autumn, and the huge mountains all around us took my breath away. It felt and looked like the Old West to me. We stopped at an old mining town, even got to eat buffalo burgers (made of yes, real buffalo meat, which was good). If we’d had more time I would’ve spent a week there, but my ex had to get back to his job so time was limited.

Just east of Denver, everything got amazingly flat. Prairies are desolate and finding signs of life off the highway were few and far between. When we saw a gas station, we’d stop at it, because who knew how long it would be until the next one came along. People there were very friendly. We stayed overnight in a lovely old-fashioned hotel, and ate at the family restaurant next door. True Americana at its best.

We started seeing hills again in parts of Iowa, which we weren’t in for long. Next came Illinois, where we stopped in Chicago. Having been there many times in my past, we stopped at places I liked, like WaterTower Place, the theater and the art museum downtown. There is a lot to do and see in this impressive city, just do it during the summer, because the winters there are cold and brutal. Chicago is a big city, with a long skyline as you drive past it. Much bigger than my hometown of Cleveland.

Late at night, we arrived at my home, in the outer suburbs of Cleveland. The trip was a success, even if it was marred by tragedy, we made the most of the situation. It took us a week to get home, and someday I plan to do it again, but this time with more time on my hands. If you want to see what America is really like, rent a car (try not to use your own, due to the major wear and tear this kind of travel does to a car) and plan places to see before you go. We did this trip without planning and it was still a success. We’d driven through lovely state parks, past amazing scenery and met wonderful people. Next time I do this, I’ll go get a triptych at AAA and plan it to see more of the off-the-beaten-path places like the Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park and Napa Valley.

Carolyn McFann
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/driving-across-the-united-states-is-surprisingly-fun-and-educational-126020.html

It’s rare for me to be so enthralled by a small community that I tell my husband that I am ready to move there; I’d move to Eastport in a heartbeat. I’d have to do it fast before my brain kicked in, but my heart felt so connected with the warm and friendly people that my sensibilities were smothered—much like the lobster smothered in butter I had last night at the Chowder House Restaurant.

                The idea of living in a community where people all know one another and can pick out a visitor in a heartbeat appeals to me. I can tell you that they stick together; they do business with each other and help each other out, as any good neighbor would do.  While there are many empty storefronts on Main Street, the town seems so alive and vibrant. People actually say hello when they meet you on the street or at the next table in one of the half-dozen restaurants. Although this is an economically depressed area and I’m sure many of these smiling faces feel the pinch of the present economy, they are positive people. I like that.

                It is certainly an artist community with many artisans having small studios to display and hopefully sell their wares.  Locals, like Don Dunbar, provide wonderful photography, while writers, such as Sarah Graves sell their works at Eastport gift shops. Woodcarvers, jewelry makers, stone workers and glass workers offer their unique wares in their own studios as well as in the area shops.  It’s a short tourist season here, and to make a living this way is tough. Fortunately, Maine people are tough and passionate people who hold down another job while supplementing their earnings by selling their craft.

                The town is steeped in history; at one time it was the second busiest seaport in North America, topped only by New York harbor.  Eastport’s deep harbor allowed huge cargo ships access and nearby railroad transportation made for an efficient operation. Fourteen sardine factories once lined the waterfront—now there are none, nor is there cargo ships pulling up to the large wharf that sits parallel to Maine Street.  Those were the bygone prosperous days of Eastport.

                Traffic is light here, with no need for traffic signals. The main intersection is at Water Street and Washington Avenue, but simple courtesy is all that is needed to keep traffic flowing easily. There is really no need to be in a rush in Eastport, which is a fine way to plan traffic patterns for a small city.

                The bay in which Eastport sits is large and deep and the tides fill and empty it every twelve hours. The boats tied to the wharf at high tide will be twenty feet lower at low tide; this is hard to fathom unless you witness it in person. The tides rate and fall at an astonishing rate; if you sit in one place for more than an hour you can witness the tides speed. I was told that the amount of water that flows out of the greater Bay of Fundy area is equal to emptying Lake Erie—and it’s done in the span of six hours!

                The homes in Eastport are old and beautiful, their architecture ranging from the Colonial period (1775-1800), the Federal period, Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Italianate, Second Empire, Queen Anne to the Colonial Revival period, 1890-1910, which can be witnessed in the “walk-about” tour. This walking on-your-own tour brings you past the older homes in town and show great examples of the various periods of home architecture. Several Inns in town demonstrate the differences in time periods, and the antiques inside them are visual proof of the history of the smallest city in America. Take the time to look at the small details on these homes to fully appreciate the craftsmanship that went into building them.

                Real Estate values here are low compared to national home prices. Even waterfront homes would seem an incredible value to people who live inland anywhere in the country. It’s not an easy life here and the cost of living is high. Your shopping choices are limited—there is only one grocery store in town and the nearest Wal-Mart is thirty miles away in Calais (pronounced CAL-is).  Heating oil prices, gas prices are high—everything has to be transported in—so life here is not for the faint of heart. It’s very cold here in winter and the wind is relentless.  The basics of life are expensive here, even if real estate is not.

                There is much to do in and around Eastport, from beachcombing for sea glass to Mex night at the Happy Crab.  Within a short drive is Cobscook State Park with outrageous tide fluctuations and Jasper Beach in Machias with incredible solitude on a beach with beauty that is almost impossible to describe. Hiking trails abound in the area, the most popular trails are at Shackford State Park and at the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge, with over fifty miles of trails. There are numerous day trips, from a 3-hour sail on a 3-masted schooner to Campobello Island, vacation retreat of “Ike” Eisenhower to tours of award-winning Raye’s Mustard (their current schedule involves the actual making of mustards on Tuesday and Thursdays) and leaf-peeping the beautiful fall foliage with an Atlantic Ocean backdrop.  Truly, a long weekend will leave you wishing you had planned just one more day in the area.

 There are several surprisingly good and reasonably priced restaurants where the specials almost always include fresh Maine seafood. The newest eatery, The Pickled Herring, has proven itself to be a big hit in the three months that it has been open.  The ambiance, food and service are exceptional and the prices are very reasonable. This restaurant in a large city would cost a diner twice as much. The Happy Crab, a sports bar, offers a large menu, down-home wait staff and very good food and has free WiFi. Just across the street is the Waco (Washington County) Diner, which puts out a great breakfast and you get to listen to the locals dishing out the local gossip every morning over coffee.  The Chowder House, on the north end of town, is a family oriented restaurant with little ambiance but a great view and terrific fresh seafood.  The baked stuffed haddock was delectable! 

                Eastport is simply a great destination for four to five days. Stay in one of the lovely B&B’s in town, like the Milliken House on Washington Street or the Kilby House on Water Street. Be open to friendly people and enjoy the glorious scenery. Be prepared to slow yourself down and enjoy the simple, yet powerful and rugged, area around you. You won’t find hopping nightclubs in Eastport or heavy traffic, but you will find an incredible draw to this area that is as predictable and constant as the tides; their ebb and flow is as comforting as your own breath.

Linda Batey
http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/eastport-maine-ayuh-754275.html

The unique look of rawhide lamp shades for kitchens and country decorating has been popular since the end of the great depression when women first began to look at their homes in ways other than utilitarian. This was the case with not only kitchens, but living rooms and later family rooms and dens as well. What is also now called southwest décor and western style as well as ranch style came naturally as the designs sprung from the use of everyday items. The same was true with country style homes. As the wealthier class began to have second homes called country homes, the working class began to use the same techniques in their homes too.

As lanterns and oil lamps gave way to the first rustic lamps it was rawhide that was one of the first chosen materials to serve as a shade. If you like the handcrafted work and style of a bygone area, the rustic texture and color tones of natural rawhide will definitely be part of what you want to incorporate into your country kitchen. There are also a few other elements that will help you create the country style look.

For a country kitchen consider the natural look of wood. It’s best to keep with a primitive or rustic style. Rough edges and uneven surfaces are desirable. If you have a large kitchen, darker woods can be used whereas lighter tones are better for smaller areas. Rawhide lamp shades should be used in any area where a table lamp or desk lamp would be placed. Depending on the layout of your kitchen, a floor lamp may also be utilized. One fabulous feature of rawhide shades is that they are available in light or dark as well as colors to fit your particular color palette.

As you use rawhide lamp shades and rustic wood furniture you will be delighted to see the dramatic impact they make. With these two elements in place the back drop will be set. Now, there are a few other things to consider that will bring the kitchen to life. Along with rawhide, lamps and rough wood furniture pieces in the kitchen, the single largest contributors to a country kitchen are area rugs. Not the machine made versions but real hand woven wool rugs with their rich colors and wonderful textures. This is where you can really shine. You have complete control at this point.

Play it safe with earth tones of tan, cream and rust or be bold and use a rich orange, red, blue or green. If you would like to have a western kitchen flavor just add dark red with grey, black and white. If you feel like a southwest kitchen, choose a southwest rug with a turquoise background or accents. Different patterns can be used around the space if the same color schemes are used. The great thing about wool weavings is they are so versatile. Not only great on the floor, they also make perfect wall hangings because they are of tapestry quality. Place a long narrow wool table runner or a small woven rug on your table as a centerpiece base. Carry the theme to floor runners in hallways, in front of the counter or behind an island. It’s hard to go wrong because woven wool rugs add so much to the overall design with the hand hewn wood and hand laced rawhide shades.

By now your room is coming alive and looking great. It just needs some accessories to give it the “wow” factor and pull the whole thing together. One of the best types of accessory is Indian pottery. Use clay vases on the table or counter with dried flowers or eucalyptus. Native American pottery is perfect for the look because it is usually hand coiled and more primitive in appearance. Place it around the room and use pitcher and bowl sets or painted dishes to set the table atmosphere. Add to the homey feel with hand carved wooden dough bowls, a primitive log ladder or wrought iron. As you will see, all of these elements build on each other for a wonderful country kitchen and with a few variations on color you can also include elements of western style or southwestern decor.

As you consider adding rawhide lamp shades to your kitchen, along with the other design elements, it may not be necessary to buy new lamps. Rustic lamps are desirable but it is the leather lampshades that make the difference. You may be able to use lamps you already have. It’s amazing what a transformation is made with rawhide lamp shades.

Craig Chambers
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/rawhide-lamp-shades-for-a-country-southwest-or-western-kitchen-124851.html

The Mediterranean island of Crete is a favorite for Europeans who are looking for a second home, vacation spot or retirement haven. It has year round sunshine and beautiful scenery, and is currently undergoing a development boom. Crete has over 1,000 kilometers of coastline, is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean, and is important historically as the home of the Minoan Civilization and has many archaeological remains for visitors to see and explore.

Crete, approximately 160 kilometers south of the Greece mainland, has a population of nearly 650,000 residents, who mostly reside on the north coast of the island. A long mountain chain runs through the island, coming right to the sea along much of the southern coast, where there a number of smaller towns and beaches. The climate is temperate, with summers long and hot and winters mild. During the winter, snow falls in the mountains, and occasionally along the northern side of the island but rarely on the south.

The largest city on the island is Heraklion, with nearly 150,000 residents, followed by Chania, with 54,000 residents and Rethymno. Chania and Rethymno are the most popular destinations for tourists on the western part of the island. The other international airport on Crete is Chania International Airport (CHQ), serving the western part of the island. A number of discount airlines fly to both airports, making it a reasonably priced destination. There are also ferries that travel to and from the Greek mainland, often taking an overnight for the trip. On the eastern half, Heraklion is the business and commerce capital of the island, with Agios Nikolaos and Sitia being popular tourist destinations.

In between Heraklion and Rethymno is the small town of Panormos, where a new home development is under construction. Panorma Seafront homes all have sea views, shared or private swimming pools and are located within 50 meters of the sea. Homes here begin at under €70,000 for a 1 bedroom property, while 3 bedroom houses can run over €200,000. This development is a fine example of the type of property available off-plan and nearly new on this idyllic island.

Chania is the major tourist destination on Crete. It has many resorts as well as the scenery and weather that Crete is known for. Chania has some of the best nightlife on the island, in the capital city of Chania Town and at resorts such as Platanias and Paleohora. A long mountain chain runs through the island, coming right to the sea along much of the southern coast, where there a number of smaller towns and beaches. The climate is temperate, with summers long and hot and winters mild. The Golden Beach is within walking distance of downtown Chania and provides a sandy beach for those who want to stay in this lively city

The main airport for Crete is Heraklion International Airport, also known as Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport (HER), which serves many UK and European cities with daily, nonstop flights. The other international airport on Crete is Chania International Airport (CHQ), serving the western part of the island. A number of discount airlines fly to both airports, making it a reasonably priced destination. There are also ferries that travel to and from the Greek mainland, often taking an overnight for the trip.

Prem Bahadur
http://www.articlesbase.com/antiques-articles/a-travel-guide-494129.html

Marina development south East Asia resonance is of skillful count to develop phuket property into a magnificent little empire in order to allocate tourists into luxury villas phuket in accordance with their wishes. Phuket islands have turned out to be jewels of Thailand, now because they offer exotic beach villas phuket, luxurious 5 star hotels phuket and phuket hotel resorts to make a comfortable stay in with Thai food that has a brand of world class recipes. They serve with best services one may have enjoyed in top slotted hotels and resorts in the Europe or the USA.

However baramabay Private Island considered being an essential part of islands Phuket falls in the precinct of private islands. It has been raised to a tourist attraction rank due jumeirah construction under marina development south East Asia. Besides phuket villas and homes for sale phuket do have an attraction for not only the swift tourists but also affluent businessmen. All they have posses such accommodation opportunities that really will make you pack every next time to visit phuket again and again and invest in beachfront properties and hilltop villas to enjoy the serene sky with stillness of picturesque beauty before your eyes all the time.

Phuket villas, 5 star hotels phuket, beach villas phuket and phuket hotel resorts are the best rentals comparatively with other places in Thailand. One may enjoy both the facilities either to stay for a short time or for a long time inspirational decision lies with your wish to make. Phuket islands secure the perfect destinations to serve adventurous instinct. These private islands offer various places to be explored that have thrilling effect on ones mind. Besides beachfronts have such tranquility and calmness that weary soul will get healing by the peace they have.

Jumeirah, baramabay Private Island in phuket is an expose ultimate beauty .All necessities that you have meet the realization of likes very soon when you put your first step in Phuket. The selection becomes difficult when one has to choose best out of best. Perfection is everywhere and in every thing in phuket that you have found nowhere in Thailand such as the choice is wide to use phuket property according to ones own selection. Either to rent phuket villas to make a short stay or a long-term the selection will need your concentration to buy homes for sale phuket.

It depends how you would like to have it. If beach lovers do not find a place to lay their head in peace and take a sunbath as well they can access beach villas phuket to enjoy the longed privacy at cheap rates Still there are others who love to be among peoples they have choice to go for luxury villas phuket.

Phuket villas, beach villas phuket, luxury villas phuket, phuket hotel resorts, 5 star hotels phuket are lifeblood for private islands that make phuket an empire to explore. Other phuket property has some thing or another to get every one glued to it. For example homes for sale phuket and barama bay private island bring before two different varieties either to purchase a house or to tour the best jumeirah construction in the world to brighten the pages of your tourist adventure catalogue.

Sanjay Sharma
http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/luxury-villas-phuket-phuket-villas-5-star-hotels-phuket-private-island-725529.html

Traveling through Rhode Island might only take a day, but you can learn a world full of history during just that one afternoon. The state might be very small, but it is so full of history that you are never going to be able to look back. Have you ever wanted to travel through time? If you are in Rhode Island you are going to feel that you are doing just that, because this state is so full of historical importance that you are going to feel as if you have stepped back to a time that began with the birth of this nation.

Each of the small towns and cities in Rhode Island has something to offer you. For instance, in Adamsville you can see the Birthplace of Rhode Island Red Chicken, and in Exeter there is the grave of a suspected Vampire. In Kingston, you can visit the Chicken lady, and there are giant Rosary Beads and a Jesus Tree in Newport, a long with the Mystery Viking Tower.

If you aren’t into unusual attractions, you can visit all of the museums and historical hot spots in Providence. You will be astonished with what you can learn about these different historical sites and what went on there.

Another beautiful thing that you are going to be able to see is the nature that surrounds you everywhere in Rhode Island. You have to drive from town to town, but really it is not problem because of the nature of the roads themselves. Imagine winding through beautiful forests and wildlife areas. The towns and cities are going to sneak up at you through the trees and dense wooded areas. Some of the best sights are found in the wildlife of Rhode Island.

By far you should stay at a bed and breakfast when you come to visit this state. There is no other place for you to stay that can offer you so much. Just think of the fun times you can have getting to know someone who is renting out spaces in their own homes for you to stay in. You are never going to have this experience again, so you should cherish it while you have it. There is nothing quite like staying at a bed and breakfast.

When you have done all of your chores and helped out with the housework, you are going to find that you can simply go for a walk in the most beautiful woods that you have ever seen surrounding the bed and breakfasts. It is going to be a great experience for your whole family because being in these woods is like being nowhere else in the world. You can finally feel as though you have found nature, when you are traveling in Rhode Island.

G. Chadwick
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/finding-nature-in-rhode-island-131524.html