RoadUse

I received the following from a trusted source...

2010-04-10T03:40:00.000-07:00

Subject: FW: Urgent message no joke

READ IMMEDIATELY AND PASS ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW

Someone is sending out a very cute screensaver of the Budweiser Frogs.

If you download it, you will lose everything! Your hard drive will crash and someone from the Internet will get your screen name and password! DO NOT DOWNLOAD IT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES!

It just went into circulation yesterday. Please distribute this message.This is a new, very malicious virus and not many people know about it. This information was announced yesterday morning from Microsoft. Please share it with everyone that might access the Internet.

Once again, Pass This on Please

Petrol Prices & how to reduce them!

2010-04-06T02:05:00.000-07:00

I received a copy of the following email this morning... PLEASE read and act on the suggestion [it shouldn't inconvenience you too much, if at all] or we shall ALL suffer even more than now.

"Hello, The People of Britain.

The price of oil is as low as it has been for a while, the oil companies have simply jacked their prices up and the government will not do anything as they rake in extra VAT for every increase.

We are hitting 114.9 a litre in some areas now, soon we will be faced with paying 1.50 a ltr.
Philip Hollsworth offered this good idea:

This thought makes MUCH MORE SENSE than the 'don't buy petrol on a certain day campaign that was going around last April or May! The oil companies just laughed at that because they knew we wouldn't continue to hurt ourselves by refusing to buy petrol. It was more of an inconvenience to us than it was a problem for them. BUT,whoever thought of this idea, has come up with a plan that can really work.

Please read it and join in!

Now that the oil companies and the OPEC nations have conditioned us to think that the cost of a litre is CHEAP, we need to take aggressive action to teach them that BUYERS control the market place not sellers. With the price of petrol going up more each day, we consumers need to take action. The only way we are going to see the price of petrol come down is if we hit someone in the pocket by not purchasing their Petrol! And we can do that WITHOUT hurting ourselves. Here's the idea:

For the rest of this year DON'T purchase ANY petrol from the two biggest oil companies (which now are one), ESSO and BP.

If they are not selling any petrol, they will be inclined to reduce their prices. If they reduce their prices, the other companies will have to follow suit. But to have an impact we need to reach literally millions of Esso and BP petrol buyers. It's really simple to do!!

Now, don't wimp out at this point... keep reading and I'll explain how simple it is to reach millions of people!!

I am sending this note to a lot of people. If each of you send it to at least ten more (30 x 10 = 300)... and those 300 send it to at least ten more (300 x 10 = 3,000) ... and so on, by the time the message reaches the sixth generation of people, we will have reached over THREE MILLION consumers! If those three million get excited and pass this on to ten friends each, then 30 million people will have been contacted! If it goes one level further, you guessed it... ..

THREE HUNDRED MILLION PEOPLE!!!

Again, all You have to do is send this to 10 people. That's all.(and not buy at ESSO/BP) How long would all that take? If each of us sends this email out to ten more people within one day of receipt,all 300 MILLION people could conceivably be contacted within the next 8days!!! Acting together we can make a difference . If this makes sense to you, please pass this message on.

PLEASE HOLD OUT UNTIL THEY LOWER THEIR PRICES TO THE 90p a LITRE RANGE

It's easy to make this happen. Just join this group and get all your FB friends to join or forward as an email to everyone in your address book, and buy your petrol at Shell, Asda,Tesco, Sainsburys, Morrisons Jet etc. i.e.. boycott BP and Esso

Thanks for taking the time to read this, now if you agree (which 99.99% of car owners do) send the message out to all you know and start boycotting BP and ESSO now."

The Changing Face of Britain

2009-03-13T04:25:00.000-07:00

Since my last post, way back in October, you would have thought that things would have improved at least in one way... NO WAY.

Politicians are still totally out of touch with the rest of the population, and with REALITY!

As for the roads - I just wouldn't know where to begin! Repairs are done to bits which don't really need it, and bits in dire need are ignored! No-one listens to the residents concerns. Traffic 'calming' methods are designed - on purpose? - to create the exact opposite effect.

Thirty mph zones are regularly driven at 60 and above... no one ever checks on this... the traffic calming methods are supposed to sort it out!

Where DO we go from here?

Road use costs!

2008-10-14T05:58:00.000-07:00

Even though petrol and diesel prices have gone down a little from their high point it still costs far too much to get from A to B by car!

That is government policy for you!

And they want us to use trains as they are more environmentally friendly, so the obvious thing is to allow ticket prices to escalate [and become amazingly complicated] so that in some cases they are far more than twice the price of an internal flight!

That's life!

Maybe you might be interested in looking at the following offer - it is free - to see if you can make any cash from it... check it out here... http://www.dollarmonitor.com/affsites/afx/115726.html

The following is a write up on the site "If you've ever wasted money on the latest on-line money-making technique, or wondered whether anyone makes money on the web, you're in luck. Because we have reviewed all of the top selling programs on-line and settled on the only systems which have been proven to generate serious income for work at home entrepreneurs. It doesn't matter whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned on-line pro: you just need to follow the step-by-step blueprints laid out by each expert and start enjoying the on-line success you deserve."

Just a thought for these hard pressed times!

Interested? Then NOW is the time to find out more!

2008-10-09T08:10:00.001-07:00

Discover How You Can Have Your Own Successful Business
Online In 30 Days ... Or LESS!

Every once in a while, something comes along that changes
the way that people do business online. Sometimes it's a
new software product, sometimes it's a traffic generator.

Right now, online marketer Richard Legg is putting the
finishing touches to his new online marketing course
titled:

"Succeed In 30 Days - How anyone can have an online
business in a month or less"

I've had a sneak preview of the course and I can tell
you it is absolutely amazing. If you are a newbie, or
if you've tried every program under the sun... and failed, this WILL help you finally succeed online. As part of the
course you'll discover:

> How to have your own "Online Empire" even if you have
absolutely no experience.

> How to generate a list of Hungry buyers for ANY site.

> How to advertise to millions of people legitimately.

> How to get the most essential tool, that every marketer
needs. Without it, you could lose 90% of sales.
(You'll be shown how to get it at No-Cost!)

> Plus: Instant Access to a resource that can make you
$50 or more within one hour of joining.

Plus much, much more...

As you can guess, a package like this could easily sell
for hundreds *BUT* act now and you can get instant access
at no cost to you whatsoever!

Not many people know this, but in order to tweak and
perfect the course, Richard is GIVING away a limited number
of V.I.P memberships to the first few people to visit the
site and join up. This way he can get feedback and improve it.
Once he's confident, he's going to start charging up to
$197 - $297 for the course.

I have been given access to a special V.I.P link to share
with a few people. Visit the site now, and you can join
for absolutely nothing. You can save hundreds!

Succeed in 30 Days

Like I said, there are only a limited number of V.I.P
memberships and many are gone already. If you want to
grab a copy, you must visit now and secure it before
someone else does..

Succeed in 30 Days

Governed by????

2008-09-01T05:50:00.000-07:00

Our government or the EU, which is most responsible?

All these new green taxes are coming on top of the financial crisis and rising food prices - when will they learn? Depressingly I know the answer! NEVER.

They say that there are fewer cars on the roads and that they are driving more slowly... obviously THEY never travel by road!

Youngsters still fly up and down a 30 mph speed limit zone at night at 60 or above still run into the chicanes, uproot the bollards and the street lights... and have cheap road tax because they have small cars... but boy can they fly!

Just one question for the 'experts' how did we manage to burn fossil fuels and cause global warming so many million years ago?

Save money!

2008-08-15T03:51:00.000-07:00

Does anyone out there know about Qassia?

You could find a very thought provoking post [admittedly based on American prices, etcetera] by Charlie Pugliese entitled "Save money" and posted on Aug 15, 2008 09:27

His qassia name is 'wordfull' - so if you type ... users wordfull ... into the search box on their home page, then click on 'wordfull' you should come up with the post!

I tried it with my qassia name as follows... users shimmy ... and then clicked on shimmy and eventually came up with my list of qassia posts.

Enjoy your travels. RSPB membership.

2008-06-19T04:59:00.000-07:00

Enjoy your travels, with or without a pet... and if you do have a dog with you PLEASE don't leave it in your car to die a horrifying death. Either telephone your proposed destination to enquire if they do accept dogs... or go elsewhere if your pet is not accepted on site when you arrive.

I have heard plenty of complaints about the RSPB not allowing dogs on its reserves... but, I must admit though I do find it annoying myself, I can appreciate their stance when some people just won't keep their dogs on leads when specifically requested to do so, and some just won't clean up after their pets. This attitude makes it extremely difficult for responsible owners, and is so anti-social!

That said, I have found plenty of RSPB reserves which do allow dogs on leads to visit and have enjoyed visits to Dinas in Wales, which is not to be missed; and to various sites in Scotland with our dogs.

Have you enjoyed the Springwatch series on BBC TV these last four weeks? It is now, sadly, coming to an end with the last special scheduled for tonight I believe.

The RSPB states that it has had a good increase in memberships following the programme. You have an option to option to choose Bill Oddie's "How to Watch Wildlife" book as a free joining gift until the end of June. [If you already have a copy of it, why not put it aside as a gift for someone special.]

Petrol prices

2008-05-29T08:19:00.001-07:00

Don't forget to sign the Telegraph petrol prices petition!

Petrol prices

2008-05-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to sign the Telegraph petrol prices petition!

Petrol Prices & Diesel Prices

2008-05-28T01:56:00.000-07:00

An email I had from Petrol Prices website drew my attention to a petition on the price of fuel in the UK run by the Telegraph.

If you visit the Petrol Prices [link above] website, then click on 'Blog' at the top right-hand side you can access their comments and the petition. Whilst you are there on the website you could also sign up for their really useful email service which alerts you to the cheapest fuel in your area.

The following is a link which should take you directly to the...
Telegraph Petition... as long as it's still online!

BON VOYAGE! GOOD LUCK. And may all the anti-government GODS BE WITH YOU!

2008-05-27T07:11:00.000-07:00

Best wishes to all the fuel protestors today.

It is their livelihood that the government is playing with. The increased amount of tax they have received from increasing fuel pricing is just a windfall they are using to fund their wars and grandiose schemes... whilst others bear the brunt of their unjust and foolhardy policies.

Our lorry drivers are at an extreme disadvantage when compared with those from any other EC country. It is totally unjust for drivers from other EC countries to come over here using their own cheap fuel and undercutting our own drivers.

Will our government see sense? I doubt it, but we can hope and pray that they will, at long last, come to their senses.

Traffic 'Calming'

2008-05-27T07:06:00.000-07:00

Traffic what?

Can anyone [excepting those who design them] explain how 'the powers that be' can have the audacity to call chicanes traffic 'calming' measures?

They could be termed a young male drivers free rally course.

They could be termed a road rage hazard.

They could be cited as a major cause for increased insurance premiums.

They could easily be cited as one of the main reasons for increased fuel consumption, and therefore as 'anti-green'.

But traffic 'calming' NEVER!

Road Tax in UK

2008-05-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

When will our esteemed government realise that there is life outside London... and other big cities.

When you live in the country, or a small town you will need to stock up on all requisites travelling by car... you may also, horror of horror, have children or dogs to transport at the same time. A stupid smart [what a fantastic misnomer] car just will NOT cut it!

The new road tax idea is just another insult to motorists on top of all the rest.

And will they ever take on board the fact that it is THE WAY you drive which most affects petrol/diesel consumption? I suppose it is beyond their tiny city minds!

Stop habitat destruction in Canada - petition

2008-05-22T05:02:00.001-07:00

The Defenders Organisation is trying to get everyone who is interested in ecology, birds, wildlife, and forests in general to sign a petition online - very easy to do.

The following is a quote from an email they sent out... "One of the world’s largest intact forest ecosystems -- the breeding grounds for many of the world’s warblers, ducks and other migratory birds -- is in big trouble.

Oil and gas, timber, mining, and other industries are destroying vital habitat for birds and other wildlife in Canada’s boreal forest. We need your help to stop them."

Please click on the link above to visit their website and join in!

Bloggers unite for human rights...

2008-05-15T03:09:00.000-07:00

There are many great human rights organizations all over the world, but if you want to know something about Amnesty International, please visit AmnestyUSA for more information

Some of the source material provided by Amnesty for BlogCatalog can be found here... Unite-Blogcatalog - you can, obviously, write on whatever rights topic you choose, but you will nevertheless find some interesting and thought provoking material on this page.

Please think of Shi Tao and press the Chinese government to release him and others who were jailed simply for their legitimate use of the Internet. Human rights in China have been in the news, especially with the Olympic torch and Olympics this summer. Now the people of China are suffering from the earthquake and its after-effects and the destruction. Their rulers are making a better job of trying to rescue their citizens than can be said for thosse in Burma.

Our thoughts will be with all the victims.

Get a badge for YOUR blog HERE... Click NOW!

Not a moan for a change -

2008-05-08T03:53:00.000-07:00

You could find this blog helpful, take a look at Help for U

Are you a pet owner?

2008-04-29T06:34:00.000-07:00

If you are here is a suggestion for a way to get quality insurance AND save money and as drivers in the UK we certainly need to save in any other area we can.

£5 a gallon! Enough said.

Road Use has nothing to do with Tigers, has it?

2008-04-22T09:22:00.000-07:00

The short answer to the question posed in our title is... no, NOTHING! But please bear with me and read on...

Make the Tiger Trade ban Permanent

If you care about wildlife in general, and tigers in particular please visit the two different page links [above, and below] now...

Below, also, is a quote from one of the web pages which these links point to -

"Tiger numbers have decreased dramatically in recent decades due to poaching to supply the illegal trade in tiger parts, used in traditional medicines, as clothing for cultural ceremonies and as decorative objects such as rugs.

It is illegal markets in China which drive most tiger poaching and illegal trade. To its credit, China has taken many steps to stem this problem; however, its commitment to ending tiger trade is now wavering."

the Illegal Tiger Trade must end

Another blog on cars and driving for you to check out...

2008-03-27T00:51:00.000-07:00

Click here to check out this blog... Auto Videos - here is a list of some of the contents...

Cars videos, photos, news, advice. Mostly focused on Videos, showing amazing driving, speed, racing, etc

Government Policy

2008-03-04T01:48:00.000-08:00

More centralization in all services, more local closures... it all helps the governments declared policy... SAVE FUEL, DON'T DRIVE!

Fuel Prices and increased Insurance Costs

2008-01-14T04:40:00.000-08:00

Just who uses most fuel?

And who is responsible for the increased number of repairs/accidents, which, in turn, causes the increased Insurance costs?

Your thoughts, please!

SNOW

2008-01-02T06:43:00.000-08:00

Slow down in the forecast snow and icy conditions... be safe! [And don't be part of the 'reason' for increased insurance premiums!]

Fuel Protests in the UK

2007-12-17T06:40:00.000-08:00

Below in quotes you will find part of the email I received from the Petrol Prices website [it's easy to sign up for updates at the website] informing me of the position re the UK Fuel Protests...

"Transaction 2007, the group behind the fuel protests taking place around the country tomorrow, have said that the protests are aiming to “fire a warning shot to the government.” David Handley, spokesperson for group, warned, “it's our intention to come back in January and let's put it like this, it won't be quite as peaceful as it's going to be tomorrow.”

He continued: “we have got contingency plans for where the next stage of this will go. I'm obviously not going to discuss that because the next element has got to be a surprise. That's the only way that you'll have the impact with government to make them realise that you mean business.”"

Petrol Prices UK and Fuel Protests

2007-12-10T01:28:00.000-08:00

How many of us have thought "isn't it about time there was a fuel protest"?

I received an email today from PetrolPrices.com about that very subject!

Let me fill you in on what they said, and direct you to their blog on the subject... let's help get something moving!

Below is a summary of their email...

"I was informed that a group called Transaction 2007 had plans to release a statement announcing some kind of protest action relating to the price of fuel in the UK. I have just read a statement published on their web site in which they have confirmed that they are going to organise legal protest action, and that it could begin as early as this Wednesday.

Go to the Petrol Prices Blog to find out full details and information.

We will be following the story as it unfolds next week to keep you informed. If you want to express your opinion about the plans you can do so on our blog, by leaving your comments and voting in our polls."

Health freedom, what health freedom?

2007-11-14T02:01:00.000-08:00

Health Freedom... check this out to see just what remaining few health freedoms we have, how they are gradually being eroded, and how to fight to stop this erosion!

If you are reading this in the UK... don't think we are safe from this kind of state interference in our lives, you only have to check out EU policies against vitamins to find out what is on their agenda!

Ideas, tips and hints please

2007-11-10T05:06:00.000-08:00

Has anyone any hints and tips on how to save money on fuel which they would like to pass on?

And what about the 'idea' of the new points system for those caught speeding. What are your thoughts?

Are you interested in Wildlife?

2007-10-25T04:33:00.000-07:00

This post may not appear to be about road use... but...

The website I am going to point you towards is based in America, but the thought behind the email which I received from them applies equally to the UK - and many other countries I imagine!

Hop over to the Defenders Organization to check their 'Watch Out for Wildlife' posting. Large animals can be seriously injured or killed so please take care and slow down where signs are posted warning of animals.

Even if you don't care about the animals... your car, and maybe you, won't come off scot free!

In the UK there are a growing number of accidents involving deer, and they can be quite serious to the car, the occupants, and the poor deer - they appear from nowhere and dash out in front of anything.

Also please spare a thought for the hedgehogs during the spring, summer, and early autumn - and now there are increasing numbers of otters being killed on our roads.

If the only male in an area, or the only female for that matter, is killed the area will be without a breeding pair... please take care.

Winter approaches...

2007-10-23T07:28:00.000-07:00

Time to get your car ready for the new season!

Fuel Prices

2007-10-18T06:54:00.000-07:00

How much are you paying for your fuel now?

If you want to find the cheapest fuel in your area, plus lots of interesting articles, and votes on items of interest, there is really only one place to visit...
Search UK Petrol Prices for free on PetrolPrices.com

Which is the more poluting?

2007-09-27T06:44:00.000-07:00

The Porche which travelled at over 170 mph on Oxfordshire highways, using in the region of 10 mpg, or the 4x4 which does over 30 mpg and travels at somewhere just below or above the national speed limit of 70 mph... which is the more poluting?

Or could it be that the boy-racers in their little cheap Peugeot or similar who put foot down to the floor and double the speed limit in built-up areas, going through the gears as if there was no tomorrow... could it be that they cost more environmentally than either of the above?

2007-09-20T04:47:00.000-07:00

If you have a blog of your own and want more traffic... Check This Out!

Maybe, the best thing about it is that it is all FREE!

Non-Road Oddments

2007-09-07T04:09:00.000-07:00

Lets leave the roads for a while and read what was published first on 'Dog Agility Training'!

Have you seen about the dog which was voted guide dog of the year... all the finalists were so worthy - but the one which won was the one which was so savagely attacked by a Rottweiller - yet Roz got her owner home safely afterwards.

It was subsequently touch and go whether her life could be saved at the vets, but thankfully all went well, and she slowly recovered, and is now back at work!

Not dogs, but whales - "In August 2007, less than a year after resuming a commercial whale hunt, Iceland announced that it would end the hunt. They listed low market demand and lack of access to the Japanese market for whale meat as reasons for the decision."

The above quote is from HSUS... get their free email newsletter to learn about more animal based campaigns and stories.

Visit The Wilderness Society to learn more about how the Bush Administration could be the reason the Northern Spotted Owl goes the same way as the Dodo.

Illegal logging, cheap wood, and extra demand for hardwood floors, are all having a detrimental effect on the habitat for many species, including tiger, jaguar, orangutans, and many more. Read more about it at the Defenders Organization

In our 'neck of the woods' roads are being closed and work done NOW... just when the schools are back, and traffic has increased exponentially! Good thinking, yes?

New Plates

2007-09-04T10:08:00.000-07:00

The new '57' plates are now four days into use. How many have you spotted?

I must admit I hadn't really thought about it - 'till I noticed one today on a BMW. Is that significant I wonder... or are there as many as usual 'run of the mill' new cars about this month?

It could be saying something about the state of the economy!

Why not get a profit-making blog of your own?

2007-09-02T08:34:00.001-07:00

Have you got your own blog?

If you have... does it make you a profit?

If you don't have a blog of your own, would you fancy having one... one that made you some money?

Check out this link Blogging For Profit. It will take you to an extremely informative FREE article on the subject... you can't lose anything by reading it... well only a few moments of time! And it is really extremely interesting - do check it out.

Why not get a profit-making blog of your own?

2007-09-02T08:34:00.000-07:00

How about a refreshing change of subject?

2007-08-26T04:20:00.001-07:00

Will it be better for your blood pressure?

You tell me!

[The same post is on all my 'doggy blogs' today... if you want details of their web addresses, just leave a message!]

If you are interested and/or concerned about animal issues, such as the one which I have quoted below [from an email I had via the Defenders Organisation], then please click on the link to them and check out their informative website.

Check out the current issues, sign petitions, do what you can to help various animals... keep informed! You could even sign up for their newsletter.

The following quote is in regard to our dogs big brothers... their forebears!

"Now, as Alaska’s voters are less than a year away from a vote to restrict deadly aerial gunning, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin is using state funds for a misinformation campaign to continue the slaughter.

It’s simply outrageous. Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has signed off on a $400,000 state-funded propaganda campaign to justify the state’s barbaric wolf slaughter from the skies.

Why? Because Governor Palin and her political cronies in the state legislature are afraid that Alaskans will vote to end the brutal, unfair and unnecessary aerial gunning program."

Driven to distraction

2007-08-23T03:42:00.000-07:00

Is the standard of driving improving?

Or is impatience, rudeness, 'inappropriate speed', failing to give signals, and ignoring red traffic lights increasing at an alarming speed?

And are some parts of the country worse than others?

[By 'inappropriate speed' I mean doing double or more than the speed limit for that particular road.]

Just a few thoughts and questions for you to ponder! Though, I know, there are far worse things going on within our culture... when youngsters go out to play football and get shot by other youngsters.

Gangs, knife crime, and the gun culture seem to be reported upon daily... yet no answers seem readily available. Actions speak louder than words - something MUST be done, and done NOW.

Forgiveness, platitudes, and human rights law seem to give rights to the perpetrators... but do NOTHING for those who are sinned against, the victims of the crimes.

Opinions, please!

Grab this FREE info now...

2007-08-19T02:47:00.000-07:00

An eBay powerseller has written an extremely informative article about selling on eBay. This information is free, and far superior to most paid-for info, grab it NOW!

Isn't it time the government scrapped the road tax?

2007-08-19T02:33:00.000-07:00

With record numbers of unlicensed vehicles on our roads - and they therefore must be uninsured - isn't it time to scrap the road tax altogether?

Why not add the requisite pence, to make up the deficit, to the cost of petrol and diesel?

Now all we need to do is to sort out uninsured drivers, unqualified drivers who are causing increasing problems, underage drivers, disqualified drivers who insist on driving despite their bans, 'joyriders', and car thieves!

Just a tiny problem! How shall we spend the afternoon?

Those who drove more would pay more - and gas guzzlers would pay more too. And my bete noir, the youngsters who have just passed their tests, think they know it all, and regularly accelerate to at least double the speed limit between speed humps or chicanes would perhaps realise that they too could conserve money by driving more responsibly.

Question!

2007-08-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

Are there more accidents on the motorways when the weather is bad?

Do people slow down enough when storms, heavy rain, fog, or even snow and ice are present?

Thoughts, please.

Spotted owls, wildlife and the environment v government! Who will win?

2007-08-14T07:26:00.000-07:00

How about ignoring entirely the state of our roads, the traffic laws, the downright criminal driving of those who ignore all safety laws and giving yourself a less stressful read?

You must be joking if you think that our esteemed legislators [in most countries it's the same] haven't the ability to screw up everything else as well!

Big pharma has legislators in its grip, what about the oil companies, try aviation, and then there is the environment and wildlife... are they really dealing responsibly and democratically with any of the aforementioned?

Now for the bird!

The following is the first paragraph from an email entitled WildAlert which I am subscribed to... "In America's great Pacific Northwest you can find ancient trees, cascading rivers, spotted owls and salmon. These old-growth forests are American icons and help define the region's wildlife and people."

Visit TheWildernessSociety... click the link, visit the website to learn about the plight of the spotted owl, and you can also sign up for WildAlert from this page. It won't cost you a cent/euro/penny to help... yet your opinion will count.

Is this about road use? Noooooooooo

2007-08-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

Do animals MATTER to you?

If so do just take a moment to sign this... Campaign petition.

It is extremely simple to fill out... and applies to YOU, if you care about animals, no matter where in the world you live.

Make your government take notice. It's about time governments took at least SOME notice of the indigenous peoples who they claim to represent in their respective countries. Politicians worldwide should, in theory, do what the majority want them to do... isn't that what democracy claims to support?

Floods, plus monsoons, fire, and famine

2007-07-29T04:19:00.000-07:00

No road use thoughts today... but please spare a thought for all those innocent animals: wild animals, pets, and farm livestock... who are undergoing the dreadful conditions with us.

Roads, other infastructure, houses, farm land, crops have all been affected by the recent floods in the UK. As people we understand what needs to be done [please see Dog Agility Training post, as mentioned below] but the animals are just suffering in ignorance.

What with monsoons in India, floods in the UK, fires in Greece, and famine in Zimbabwe... there have been a great deal of 'natural disasters' for animals to suffer in recent months.

Click Here for more details on the following topics...

"Have you ever wondered how wild animals fare during floods? Our team in India found out following torrential monsoon rains in India. HSI India and the Animal Help Foundation are in the field rescuing wildlife and educating people about how we can help our wild neighbors in times of need.

With little food available and thousands of people leaving the country every day, the animals of Zimbabwe are finding themselves in dire straits. HSI is working with local and national groups to ensure pets, farm animals and wild animals are safe and cared for."

The items above are quotes from the HSI newsletter... if you Click this link you can find out about this, and other work undertaken on behalf of animals worldwide.

You might also find the post on Dog Agility Training to be of interest!

Ford's sale of Landrover and Jaguar...

2007-07-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Ford has 'let it be known' that they have had some interesting offers put on the table for their Landrover and Jaguar brands.

They say that the two brands must be sold together as a package. Jaguar is making a loss, whilst Landrover is in profit.

Those who work for these two premium brands have a long wait ahead of them before anything will be announced by Ford. Negotiations will be long, and once the Unions are informed of Fords decisions... they will probably become acrimonious!

Are you suffering from Information Overload?

2007-07-19T07:06:00.000-07:00

Are you a victim?

I'm afraid most of us are!

But there is a way to deal with it... and deal effectively too.

Why are you suffering?

Because you are trying to do too much... this brilliant free article will soon have you on the straight and narrow, and sorted.

Just click over to Unravelling the Information Overload and you'll have it sorted in next to no time.

Feeling overwhelmed?

Click on the cure... you have nothing to lose [except a few more minutes] - after all it is free.

Who said nothing worth having is free - check this out to find out just how WRONG they were!

Wilderness... we should be so lucky!

2007-07-18T02:39:00.000-07:00

Action on Wilderness... in the US needs your input.

From a UK perspective, remember that the more land which is concreted over... the more chance there is of floods - AND conversely, the more risk there is of a water-shortage for the local population.

The powers that be will never grasp these simple facts! They keep shipping in more folks like there was no tomorrow... and blame things on climate change. This is a facile way of adding more taxes and laws.

Farmers have to learn the optimum amount of 'beasts' to stock per acre to use resources to their best advantage... water, food, waste, etcetera. Maybe they could educate the politicians - but politicians, like experts, are far too clever!

The UK is vastly over-populated for the size of the country... witness the state of the roads - and the pathetic attempts by those 'in the know' of dealing with the problem. Don't drive, don't use fuel, it's bad for the environment they say.

I say overcrowded roads and traffic jams mean that motorists use more fuel. Also motorists should be taught how to drive to conserve fuel - it isn't the vehicle, in most cases, which is a gas guzzler - it's the idiot behind the wheel who thinks he's a F1 driver [in a 30 mph limit quite often] - the main problem is overcrowded roads though.

No taxes whatsoever are going to stop people driving - they need to drive in most instances. When will government realise that shopping - and travelling to a job where one has to arrive looking reasonably smart [not the windswept drowned rat look] - cannot be achieved on a bike. Or, in anywhere but a metropolis, is public transport an option.

Driven to distraction, STILL!

2007-07-17T10:14:00.001-07:00

When those at the top of government don't drive... and don't have to go and do a food shop... what hope is there for a reasonable hearing for those who have to go and get food for their own tables... or are we supposed to go fetch half a dozen bags of food by public transport?

If they could manage it on a regular basis let's see them do it... and do they have all that free time to do it too?

Do you trust the supermarket to deliver your food? What about fresh fruit and vegetables, would they pick out the best for you?

2007-07-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

When those at the top of government [or Local Government, for that matter] don't drive... and don't have to go and do a food shop, or other shopping... what hope is there for a reasonable hearing for those who actually live in the REAL WORLD?

AffiliateKB

2007-07-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Have you looked at AffiliateKB yet?

Yes?

No?

If not, read our review which was posted on 25th June to find out what all the fuss is about [there's also a mention on 6th July]... go on you know you want to trawl our archives... it's free - and SO much better than much of the 'paid-for' info that's around!

Interested in personalized t-shirts?

2007-07-14T07:09:00.000-07:00

Then check the comment which was left on our 9th July posting for details! There is an English translation, if that is your native language.

If you have a web presence of your own, do you use a translation facility... I wonder how good it really is.

Traffic calming! and Experts

2007-07-13T04:20:00.000-07:00

Traffic calming solutions, like chacanes... contrary to what the experts say, actually speed up the traffic between the obstacles, lead to road rage... and, when cited at points which catch the low winter sun, lead to accidents.

They also make every car which get stopped at them use more fuel.

No matter what subject you think of... the 'experts' can make a hash of it! What a superb talent - and so well paid too.

Nothing AT ALL to do with road usage!

2007-07-10T07:56:00.000-07:00

The quoted item below is part of a request for help I received...

"Pemberton taxi's in Wigan are having a grand auction night in aid of guide dogs for the blind.

They are hoping to raise five thousand pounds to sponser a guide dog.

The event is being held at the Douglas Bank Pub, Wigan on August 24th.

The event has been registered with the local Guide Dog branch located in Bolton. You can verify this on Bolton 01204 546510 ... if you could offer any help we would be grateful."

UK news

2007-07-09T03:45:00.000-07:00

According to, I think it was the Times, the 19th July is the date to look to in order to find out more about the situation regarding Jaguar and Landrover.

One more thing to consider, Landrover is in profit... Jaguar is not!

Back door legislation...

2007-07-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

This piece of news is primarily for US citizens. Please read the quote below... and act if you don't want the government to do as it pleases and introduce laws on the quiet!

'"Right now, Congress is debating the future of the Internet. The good news is national lawmakers in Washington have successfully protected Internet access from Federal taxes. The bad news is that the laws that keep Internet access tax-free will EXPIRE NOVEMBER 2007.

Congress should protect American consumers and achieve the bi-partisan goal of passing the "Permanent Internet Tax Freedom Act of 2007" which seeks to permanently extend the moratorium on Internet access taxes and duplicative taxes on e-commerce."'

Visit You Choose Dot Net to sign the petition and find out more.

Free, AND fascinating... and nothing whatsoever to do with Road Use!

2007-07-06T03:41:00.000-07:00

If you are, in any way, engaged in trying to make a few extra dollars or pounds on the internet, then this website is amazingly helpful... with free information which exceeds in quality most of the 'paid for' reports which are hyped around the internet.

Just click the following link to... 'The Tricks Behind Clickbank and Adwords'. Don't worry if that is not your area of interest - there are so many more free and fascinating articles available once you join... AND JOINING IS FREE!

Click the Affiliate KB link now to check out what is on offer!

The article is by Steven Holdaway, and the following is a snippet from it... "Steven Holdaway might be one of the web's top experts on using Adwords to promote affiliate programs. What are his qualifications? Well, in January of this year he managed to pull in $158,237.40 from just one Clickbank account using Adwords. And that's just an ordinary month."

Further promotional snippet... "For those of us who have tried to use Adwords to promote affiliate products, however, the process can be maddening...This article is based off of my conversation with Steven. If you have never bought a guide on how to use Adwords to promote Clickbank products, then this will hopefully be a good introduction on the topic. If you have bought an Adwords guide, then hopefully this article will clarify what you have already learned, and fill in those missing pieces that you need to finally see your Clickbank account explode with commissions."

Very special people required!

2007-07-04T04:48:00.000-07:00

Do you fulfil all these criteria? - Or at least some of them!

Are you a citizen of the USA [or interested in its wildlife]?

Are you interested in wilderness?

Are you interested in wildlife?

Have you any concerns at all about quality of life, and lack of open spaces?

Are you concerned about global warming?

If you answered 'yes' then the following link will be of interest to you - and you can get free email information from them - Wilderness.

What does this post have to do with road usage?

Obvious really, the wilderness is the best place to recharge your own batteries - and after driving on our congested roads, and coming into contact with incompetent drivers, and road rage - you'll desperately NEED to recharge your batteries!

Prime Minister... Gordon Brown

2007-06-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

Let's hope this day brings a new sanity to Government policies!

Prime Minister...

2007-06-26T03:51:00.000-07:00

Will a new Prime Minister in the UK herald the beginning of a new era?

Thoughts, please!

How to make 'easy' money whilst being... Driven to distraction!?!

2007-06-25T04:38:00.000-07:00

The real 'raison d'etre' for this blog is summed up within the following quote...
"Driven to distraction?!? Drivers, Road Use, Driving... and other methods of getting from A to B... a general discussion on where the presumptions of so-called 'experts' are muddle-headed and just plain wrong!"

Today, though, I have found a new idea [for me] "How to make 'easy' money whilst being... Driven to distraction".

Are you looking to make a few pence or pounds whilst expressing your opinions?

You could get paid just by linking over to the Home Page!

If you have a blog, newsletter, website, or just like to participate in forums, then you can get paid by referring other people to read special articles.

It is that easy. Just read the above paragraph again.

Let me explain.

Join. It's free.

So, register as an Affiliate... it's fast and easy. It typically takes less than a minute before you have access to your affiliate account.

Link to specific AffiliateKB Articles or to the Home Page... and if you see an article on AffiliateKB that you want to share with others, link to it from your website, blog, newsletter, or forum post using your unique tracking link [which you will get as a member].

Then AffiliateKB will Use Your Clickbank ID In Their Clickbank Ads... so whenever someone comes to AffiliateKB from one of your links, they will be recorded as your referral. And whenever they read an article, your Clickbank ID will be in the special Clickbank Ads.

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For example click the following special link to Read an Article. This article is by Holly Mann... Holly Mann is an extraordinary affiliate marketer. In just 4 months, she went from an income of zero [we all have to start there] to an income of $10,000 - $12,000 per month! Her emphasis is one of honesty - something that flies in the face of so many "gurus" who constantly oversell and under deliver.

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The new Craze

2007-06-19T03:21:00.000-07:00

The new craze! If they are crazy enough for this... they should not be allowed to have a driving licence!

Take it away, and only reinstate it once they have taken another test... plus some kind of extra mental suitability test should be imposed.

Some youngsters are responsible. Others aren't responsible enough to be allowed the privilege of obtaining a driving licence.

How can it be discovered 'who is who' and 'which is which'? This question needs some serious consideration.

The responsible shouldn't be penalised, the irresponsible should never be allowed to drive!

A driving licence puts one in charge of a lethal weapon.

Clamping and Clampers

2007-06-13T04:54:00.000-07:00

I reckon we have a highly controversial subject here... Clamping and Clampers!

On the one hand there are those who will insist in parking in places which cause traffic problems to other road users... and these inconsiderate motorists should be stopped.

On the other hand we have those who consider clamping to be a licence to print big money!

Are there other, more satisfactory, ways to sort out this problem? Ways which could help those motorists who perhaps just need one urgent item from a shop, without having to drive round and round to find a space to park, and ways which could stop this frustration leading to traffic chaos.

An equitable and just set of solutions needs to be found which would get rid of the need for injudicious clampers and their one-size-fits-all clamping theory.

Car Industry Uncertainty... where does the future lie?

2007-06-12T06:48:00.001-07:00

With Landrover and Jaguar for sale by Ford, where does the future of British luxury brands lie?

Were a mass-market brand like Ford, and specialist brands like Landrover and Jaguar, really suited in the first place?

Jaguar is a top of the range brand, the cars use more fuel... but is that a true reflection of their carbon footprint? Perhaps our esteemed politicians, and many pundits who like to grab a bandwagon might THINK a little deeper!

How about the carbon footprint costs of the actual physical production, plus design and testing of vehicles - how long is a vehicle's projected life?

When it comes to Landrover Defenders they have been in production since 1948 and I think I am right in stating that 70% of them are still being used today. Sturdy construction!

What about injury statistics for the different types of vehicle, and resultant hospital costs?

I imagine if luxury brands and 4x4's were judged on a fuller range of figures, rather than just on the amount of fuel they consume... then they would come out as the better bet as far as carbon footprints are concerned.

[Plus something no-one seems to take into consideration... fuel consumption depends upon the driver and the way they drive.]

Do ANY governing bodies have ANY "common sense"!?

2007-05-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

What or which government department exhibits any consistency or common sense?

Are they really interested in 'green' issues?

If so, can anyone explain how in the same breath they can state that they want people to use less fuel whilst driving, yet also state that chicanes are a good idea?

Chicanes make ALL drivers use MUCH more fuel on each journey... ask any knowledgable driver why [don't ask any of their paid experts, please... they know nothing!] and they will fill you in with the details should you need this concept explaining.

New service...

2007-05-29T06:17:00.000-07:00

A recent addition to AOL services is the introduction of a Motoring Section which has many different areas which may be of interest, these include.....

News,
Buying and Selling a Car,
Car Maintenance,
F1 Grand Prix,
Insurance,
a Driving Directions facility,
Motor Shows,
Chat and Community,
Loans,
and Number Plates.

It is a bright and easy to navigate selection of many varied, interesting and useful services.

As the service is new, obviously some areas have yet to come into their own, but I've looked into the Driving Directions which gives you a MapQuest search solution, where you have a choice of using either a Postcode or Town as your starting and arrival points. Please note, they are rather keen on using motorways I'm afraid!

I've also looked at the Number Plates section... if you are searching for a personal number plate, then this is another useful facility for locating that special number.

Tell the government to get off our backs

2007-05-28T06:26:00.000-07:00

You will find a fascinating post if you click the link to Autoblog Green... should the idea work, then maybe it will get the government off the motorists back.

Who am I trying to kid?

After all the main problem with traffic jams and overcrowding on our roads comes from the governments own policy of having too many people in too small an area.

Translated, for all those 'experts', it means that this country is vastly over-populated! Don't tell the experts... but this could also go a long way towards explaining why there is insufficient water in the South-East when we have a little less rain than normal! [We'll forget the fact that so much is wasted by the water companies.]

Drive carefully

2007-05-28T02:34:00.000-07:00

Bank Holiday in the UK and what we have is wall to wall R-A-I-N... if you are going out and braving the weather... drive carefully.

The spray on the motorways can be horrendous, and visibility can be reduced significantly. With the amount of rain which has fallen in the last 48 hours standing water, large puddles, even floods could pose another hazard... so take care.

Maybe a better idea would be to stay 'chez nous' and create a blog. I can offer the following website address as a new and upcoming place to promote it - even before it's started!!! - have fun... Buzzer Hut | Promote Your Blog

Help required... and a freebie for you...

2007-05-27T02:38:00.000-07:00

The following quote is from an e-mail I received from John Reese who wants this message and information spread around far and wide...

"Please join Income.com, and Stephen’s other
great partners, in helping to feed over 1,000,000
children that need our help.

Here’s How You Can Help:

1. Visit the web site at www.foragreatercause.org

2. Download the free “Success Report” that will by
itself donate a plate of food on your behalf — even
if you don’t give one penny of your own money.

3. (Optional) Donate any amount that you’d like.
Every single dollar will help.

* You get TONS of free business & success
audios, videos, and special reports when you
donate.

4. Spread the word! Email your ezine lists, post
about this on your blog, and feed children that
need our help!

A HUGE “Thank You” in advance for any help
you can offer this amazing cause."

If you can spread this info further afield, please DO!

Lastly, if you were looking for our normal mix of 'road-use' information and moans, sorry, today is an exception!

BBC licence fee usage

2007-05-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

Did anyone watch the BBC programmes devoted to John Sergeant, Jo Brand and their ideas on vehicles, driving and drivers?

And more than that, does anyone agree that it was a good use of the licence fee to broadcast their views?

When are views personal opinion, and when prejudice?

Vegetation

2007-05-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

All the vegetation on the road verges has grown faster than normal for the time of year. What with the warm spell in April, followed by a good watering this month, growth has been exceptional.

I hope all councils are on top of the situation and will keep at least the areas round all junctions cut well back so as to facilitate easy visibility. Traffic travels much faster these days, and appears to pay scant attention to warning signs of side roads. Seeing oncoming vehicles is extremely difficult when the vegetation has grown up too high... and numerous accidents, or near misses are caused by drivers not thinking 'beyond the end of their bonnets'.

Common sense seems to get into even shorter supply when the sun shines and people are out on a jaunt and in a hurry.

Road use, or any form of travel, in London today?

2007-05-19T03:59:00.000-07:00

Wembley and Lords, both today.

Chelsea v Manchester United in the new Wembley stadium, England v West Indies at Lords.

Anyone for a nice quiet trip to London? Parking should be great too!

At least the rest of the country should have quieter roads and shops - enjoy your choice.

Nightmare of train fares! Rant, what rant?

2007-05-19T01:36:00.000-07:00

If you are not a user of the rail system... maybe you don't have any cause or reason to travel by train... then you won't know what a nightmare the fares 'system' is for all passengers.

I have been grumbling about the number of two carriage trains which we see daily - but having heard of the way you have to buy tickets with the infinite number of 'choices', plus how easy it is to infringe the conditions of the ticket - then why anybody would actually choose rail travel as a mode of transport beats me. It most certainly wouldn't be because it is reasonably priced!

[Incidentally if you do infringe the ticket conditions, even it seems that the rail company are gaining from your different choice... you are made to feel like a criminal - witness a case mentioned on the BBC Breakfast show today!]

Add to these problems the fact that if you telephone for train times or other local information, then you will be put through to a most definitely NOT local call centre - the person on the other end will gabble the information, speak with an accent you cannot understand, or give so many choices you end up more confused than when you began the call.

A simple, easy to understand, reasonably priced system is what is required - with trains on time, no trouble, no fuss, no overcrowding - is this too much to ask?

Until that day most other modes of transport seem infinitely more preferable - from walking to flying.

Bicycles and pavements

2007-05-18T02:15:00.000-07:00

In our modern cities should bicycles be allowed to weave in and out of the traffic?

With some towns at virtual grid-lock in the 'rush-hour' - for the unitiated, that's when traffic comes to standstill because there are too many people in a rush to get to work at the same time - many cyclists take to the pavements.

This is invariably safer for the cyclists, and if all cyclists were responsible and dismounted when pedestrians were about, then it wouldn't create any problems. But some cyclists weave in and out of the pedestrians at speed causing accidents... so now some councils have come down on all cyclists using pavements.

Of course lack of space is the real problem - or put the other way - over-population. There is no room to build safe cycle lanes to keep cyclists away from both pedestrians and motorised transport.

They aren't creating any more land HERE!

Insurance and 'points on your licence' for speeding

2007-05-17T08:41:00.000-07:00

One insurance company is considering not penalizing those with points on their licences for speeding... and where one company goes, others are bound to follow.

Is it fair on those who keep clean driving licences?

Some might argue that there are many worse motoring offences. For example driving without tax or insurance... or a valid licence even... and driving whilst banned.

Youngsters speeding are quite often on the news - having killed themselves and their passengers. They don't have the experience of driving to be able to deal with problems... plus there is the 'showing off' component when with others.

And what is the good of any law if there is no-one to enforce it? The fact that there are insufficient police on the roads to deter other [and speeding] offences is a major problem.

Special traffic 'police' could be one answer.

Have you got a blog?

2007-05-16T05:06:00.000-07:00

Do you have a blog, and do you want to publicize it more?

Then why not give the Blog Flux Directory a try!

Philosophy and 'The Gentle Philosopher'

2007-05-12T04:08:00.000-07:00

Just one thought for today! It is sufficient.

The words of Will Durant are so painfully accurate: "It may be true... that 'you can't fool all the people all the time,' but you can fool enough of them to rule a large country."

Yes!

If you want to know more about 'The Gentle Philosopher' check out the following link... Click here

Just a couple of thoughts!

2007-05-11T07:13:00.000-07:00

Why is a bus with just two people on it more environmentally friendly than a car with two people [and a dog]?

And why do trains keep getting shorter? Two carriage trains are quite common now!

Imperial versus Metric

2007-05-09T02:31:00.000-07:00

I found the following good news on AOL this morning...

"Campaigners fighting EU plans to abolish imperial measures have claimed victory for pounds and ounces.

A deadline of 2009 had been set for metric measures to finally replace Britain's traditional imperial measures, but they have now been shelved following a change of heart at the European Commission.

Both the Conservative Party and the Metric Martyrs campaign group say they have won the battle to keep Britain imperial.

Conservative industry spokesman, Giles Chichester MEP, said that he had received confirmation from the European Commission's Industry Commissioner Gunther Verheugen that dual marking of goods in imperial and metric will "continue indefinitely"."

This is extremely good news for the whole country as we can continue to trade with our English speaking friends in America and worldwide who use the imperial system without the upheaval and upset of being forced to use metric.

Let us hope the same sanity prevails... and we continue to use miles to denote distance in our country, in perpetuity.

And whilst we are on the subject, why does the BBC ruin many decent programmes by stating distances in kilometres?

Before you can drive anywhere...

2007-05-08T02:22:00.000-07:00

You need a car which will reliably START!

To find car batteries themselves, why not search on eBay? No matter where you live in the world, you will probably to able to access a bargain battery on eBay!

But does your car REALLY need a new battery?

I have found a really helpful website which will help answer that question, and many others besides. Like info on changing tyres, jump-starting your car, and changing your oil. These invaluable information can be found here...
Vehicle Maintenance Tips

Multi-lingual

2007-05-03T09:48:00.000-07:00

Isn't blogging great!

We get visitors from all over the globe... and get to view blogs in many different languages. Even if we don't understand more than a few words in the particular language, sometimes the pictures tell the whole story!

To check out what I mean by the above statement... just click on the 'Comments' on the previous post. What beautiful pictures!

[I know it would do me good to get that language course out again! I always think it's the language which sounds most delightful to listen to.]

HELP NEEDED!

2007-05-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

Road Use, Traffic, Driving, Motoring, travel, road transport, drive, motor, transport policy.

Which of this list best describes the posts within this blog?

Any comments would be gratefully received... very few visitors are arriving at this blog - but I want it to be a force for change for the better on our roads - and for transport policy in general.

So would a change of name be beneficial?

HELP, PLEASE, any readers!

Gas Drilling in Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

2007-04-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

It's not every day that there is a chance to make a real
difference in the fate of America's remaining wild lands.

The Bush Administration plans to radically escalate gas drilling
in the southern Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of America's
most important and spectacular wildlife habitats.

Fortunately we have until June 18 to weigh in on this plan and
secure safeguards for the wildlife and air quality. I took a
moment to send a message, and I hope you'll do the same. Simply
click the link below:
http://action.wilderness.org/campaign/upper_green_lcv?rk=Od37ivY1DSO-W

Traffic, traffic, and more traffic

2007-04-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Does it just appear that the more traffic our towns and cities have... the worse the standard of driving? Drivers appear to be becoming less and less courteous and as for obeying the law... what law? seems to be the general concensus.

From blatently ignoring red traffic lights, to at least doubling the speed limit in 30 mph areas... to completely disregarding the law which bans the use of in hand mobile phones - it all seems to be happening more and more frequently.

Those who disregard these laws do so in the knowledge that they stand a better chance of winning the lottery than getting caught and prosecuted for this law breaking.

Why is this happening? I know what I think!

'Experts'... what do they actually KNOW?

2007-04-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

Are all small cars fuel efficient?

Are all 4 x 4's gas guzzlers?

The 'experts' who set the levels of road fund licences seem to think so!

I've got news for them... they are wrong, wrong, WRONG!

It all depends on the driver for a first point... then there is age of vehicle, and quality of maintainance... plus there is the fact that 4 x 4's aren't built for high speed driving and cornering.

Boy racers in old, poorly maintained, small cars drive at excessive speed, treat chicanes like slalom courses whilst at least doubling the permitted speed limit... hang on to the gears, brake at the last minute, and generally use an excessive and unnecessary amount of fuel just by the WAY they drive.

Conservation issues, and communications towers

2007-04-22T02:42:00.000-07:00

Just because we live outside London [yes, for those who live in the capital... there is life outside London] and actually need our own transport to get from A to B, it does not mean that we care less for the environment, in fact a great many of us know more about it, and care more for it, than the so-called experts who are all mouth, yet very little hands-on practical experience.

We won't go into lack of public transport here - maybe ONE bus per day, no trains, no taxis, no trams, no planes - yes, places like this do still exist, thank God!

We are not antisocial in our attitude to energy conservation, rather we have a more rounded view of what can, and should, be done to preserve, yet use, this beautiful country... and the world beyond it than ever a 'book-based' expert will ever learn.

This post is not about road-use... it is an 'import' from another blog about conservation issues... it starts within the quotes...

'"The quoted section below about communications towers is from the 'Defenders Organization' who do some brilliant work on trying to help with conservation issues... even if you come upon this post too late to take action on this particular crusade... you can find out about other issues by visiting the link below, and then clicking the link to their 'Home Page'.

"Did you know that millions of migratory birds die each year as they collide with communications towers? But these deaths can be reduced.

I just wrote to the Federal Communications Commission, urging them to do something about it. You can, too -- just go to this website to take action:

Towers & Birds

Between 5 million and 50 million birds are killed annually when they collide with communications towers and related structures such as the support wires. Around 230 bird species are affected -- over one-quarter of all bird species found in the United States -- including 52 species that are in decline, like the cerulean warbler, black rail, Bell's vireo, the golden-winged warbler, Swainson's warbler, Henslow's sparrow, Bachman's sparrow, and McCown's longspur.

The FCC has the power and the obligation to do something about it. Changes to the way communications structures are lit for safety can go a long way to preventing millions of bird deaths each year.

Write to the FCC today! Tell them to develop rules to help birds safely reach their destinations. But hurry -- the deadline for comments is Monday, April 23rd!"

Towers & Birds"'

Health news

2007-04-20T04:04:00.000-07:00

I have just received an e-mail from TheGoodLifeLetter. It is a free newsletter and one of my very favourites. If you click the above link you can sign up and see if you like it... I KNOW you will.

But, what this post is all about is the contents of that newsletter and the link it contained...

Do check this out now - only valid to 30th April...

'There is a crisis in health freedom. On April 30, 2007 the FDA will close the public comment period on a "Guidance" which will classify every alternative practice as medicine so that only licensed physicians can carry out the procedure AND vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc., will suddenly become "untested drugs" which will be forbidden.

Bad? Real Bad! But public outcry can stop this assault on your health and your freedom.

Spread the word! Tell everyone in your Circle of Influence, professionals, alternative practitioners, nutrient and herb companies, everyone! Let them know how important their participation is to make sure the FDA backs off from this repressive course.

Please share this link with them and urge them to take action: http://tinyurl.com/2u7ghc

Yours in health and freedom,

Rima E. Laibow, MD
Medical Director
Natural Solutions Foundation
www.HealthFreedomUSA.org'

Just one comment, in despair... How could this be even considered? [We know, all to well... $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$!] Alternative medicines have been around for thousands of years... it is these chemical and synthetic drugs which should be banned!

Thoughts...

2007-04-19T04:17:00.000-07:00

Before I put this through the shredder... just a couple of gems I had written down, I don't know when, or from whence they came!

First of the thoughts...

Change is inevitable - except from a vending machine. Robert C. Gallagher

The author of the second of the thoughts is unknown [or so my note says]...

God grant me the serenity to accept the people I cannot change, the courage to change the one I can, and the wisdom to know it's me.

This second thought might be useful whilst driving!

The beauty of the opposite direction!

2007-04-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

Now that we have a 4 x 4 we have to park in the opposite direction! That is, we have to back it in, so that the dog can jump in [the drive slopes upwards, so it's a lot lower for him to jump in that direction].

We won't get into the "too heavy to lift, and bad legs due to his past" story just here!

Parking in the opposite direction means that the 4 x 4 faces outwards towards the road... the beauty was that I saw a Red Kite fly over us and towards the town when we were about to set out on a shopping trip. So, this means that they are spreading out over more and more of the country!

They were once an extremely rare site... mostly seen in rural Wales, and well off the beaten track!

The Daffodil Principle...

2007-04-15T06:57:00.000-07:00

No, this hasn't really got anything to do with road-use, traffic, or driving... directly! [Though there is some driving mentioned within the actual post.]

What this post is really about is 'The Daffodil Principle'... to find the blog post just Click Here. [The posting on the blog was dated Friday, April 13, 2007... and I know I feel extremely lucky to have read it!]

If you read below you will find the summary from the end of the post... but PLEASE don't miss the actual post, to read it is just such an uplifting experience... and the pictures are beautiful too!

"There is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a journey, not a destination. So work like you don't need money. Love like you've never been hurt, and, Dance like no one's watching.

Wishing you a beautiful, daffodil day!

Don't be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.

If you want to brighten someone's day, pass this on to someone special. I just did! "

This is the link... Click Here NOW. [Remember the posting on blog was dated Friday, April 13, 2007.]

Fuel Prices...

2007-04-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

Did you catch the news that fuel prices are set to rise, ready for summer?

A rip off?

Never, they wouldn't!

You bet they would if they think it's possible, or likely, they can get away with it!

Your guess is as good as mine as to whether it will lead to more fuel price protests... but would it really be surprising?

Those in charge [of whatever industry] are always SO keen to put up the prices to cover increased costs... but like the gas suppliers, are not so keen to reduce the prices. And will they speak to the media when they have been caught out? You bet your life they won't!!!

Holiday Break... Easter and the weather is FINE!

2007-04-09T03:53:00.000-07:00

The roads have been jam packed since Thursday.

The weather forecast said it there would actually be 'FINE weather for the Bank Holiday'. It was also claimed that the weather here in the UK would be better than that on the Continent... therefore many people decided to holiday at home.

[Like many people, we don't think sitting in a traffic jam heading for the coast is a fun way to spend our time... so we always stay fairly local, if not at home, on bank holidays.]

But the roads, no matter how many they build, will not get any the less clogged... and why shouldn't people aspire to drive where they want? After all they work most of the year to keep the national and local governments in luxury!

So what will happen?... more taxes to keep the 'green' lobby happy... forget the fact that those same taxes NEVER do anything to solve the problem... they just swell the coffers of whoever is collecting them [be they local or national taxes].

Just one query, will they EVER realise that this country is vastly over-populated? Just think of the water shortages... demand is never associated with increased numbers of households requiring water, it is just the same old, same old, 'cut down your personal water consumption!'

Happy Easter motoring!

Do the 'powers that be' REALLY know which mode of transport is most 'green'?

2007-04-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

Is it REALLY 'green' for there to be buses riding round with only one passenger?

Is it REALLY 'green' for the government to charge extra duty on planes? Where does the money go to... only the amazingly naive think it will go into research on creating more fuel efficient planes!

And do the government have any idea which actual vehicles on the road are least 'green'? They pretend to know... and charge vehicle excise duty according to their own prejudices!

Have they any idea how fuel inefficient small old cars driven by 'boy racers' at at least twice the legal speed limit in built up areas are? ... using the council's own free, and absolutely brilliantly designed slalom courses [sorry, traffic calming schemes!]... yet they are classed as 'green'!

Trains... why do we see shrinking train sizes? Does it have ANYTHING remotely to do with the extortionate ticket prices? Ask for a ticket and what comes into YOUR mind... I know what I think. I always want to ask if that includes a share in the railway company!

More suggestions will be gratefully received!

Budget for travel?

2007-03-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

The often forecast £400 road tax for 'gas guzzlers' has been brought into reality, if only phased in!

Most helpful for those who live in the depths of the countryside, in snow prone areas, or travel down farm lanes or drives!

Still those in government don't appear to recognise anyone who lives outside London as having half a brain or actually being in need of a vehicle to get from A to B.

And the extra costs on petrol and diesel should help make the day for ALL who are compelled to travel any distance to work.

I'm sure government, local government, and hospital trusts can be relied upon to close more local facilities... and so create far more tax revenue with this increase in duty in mind.

Have YOU...

2007-03-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

Filled up with fuel...

Taxed your vehicle, if it is due at the end of the month...

Comments on the budget will be here tomorrow... your thoughts would be most welcome!

Speed camera facts?

2007-03-15T00:57:00.000-07:00

I read about the Government having cancelled its research into the effect of speed cameras on AOL.

It brought to mind this quote, which I loved, from Dr. Andrew Shao "a pre-determined conclusion in search of a method to support it."

(It was used about a review of various studies on additive use [they only used studies which supported their point of view] then came out with a review which claimed to prove their predetermined opinions.)

Just another instance of lies, damned lies, and statistics!

The following is quoted from the AOL report..."'The Government cancelled research into the effect speed cameras were having on accident rates and driver behaviour, a request under the Freedom of Information Act has revealed.

The move by the Department for Transport (DfT) was described as "astonishing and grossly irresponsible" by anti-speed camera group Safe Speed.

The DfT said in its reply under the Act that its original research was replaced by research looking at the wider effects of cameras.

But Safe Speed, which believes cameras are having no effect on casualty rates, said the original research was dropped because the DfT was "scared about the likely results".'"

Evidently it was a Safe Speed member who organised the brilliant anti-road charging petition which achieved over one and three quarter million votes in such a short space of time. Sad the reply we all received achieved more plusses on length than sense!

For more details... see the AOL report.

Are you at risk of being unreasonable? Do you want to get from A to B?

2007-03-12T02:13:00.000-07:00

Getting from A to B in the easiest, most time efficient and convenient manner, is surely what we all want and NEED.

Politicians make it sound as if we are being unreasonable in this requirement. Yet they are the ones who made it more difficult [by over-populating this country] and who now make it even more necessary, by closing down local facilities which have served well in the past, and could do so in the future, and locating everything in one central facility... which is only convenient to those who are living right next door to it.

Once elected to Whitehall do they somehow forget that there is ANYTHING outside London? Do they think that when you live right out in the countryside in small vilages or lone cottages, that the underground magically turns up at your door to whisk you to where-ever, to do your shopping, visit the doctors, the dentist, the vets, and carry out the other necessities of living?!

Have they ever shopped for anything?

Think of buying a small electrical appliance, the odd light bulb, and other breakable items... and taking them home on your bike... this is what some of them appear to suggest!

They all need a strong dose of reality... anyone agree?

Road Use... the reasons for this blog

2007-02-28T05:06:00.000-08:00

Driven to distraction?!?

Drivers, Road Use, Driving... and other methods of getting from A to B... a general discussion on where the presumptions of so-called 'experts' are muddle-headed and just plain wrong!

When can we travel?

2007-02-27T06:30:00.000-08:00

With both parents having to work to make ends meet, how can getting children SAFELY to school, plus work committment be arranged so that no-one travels at rush hour periods. When can we travel?

Does anyone agree here... IT IS IMPOSSIBLE.

Those in power may grumble about the school run, but as 'choice?' is increased and children have to travel long distances to school it may not be practicable to walk them there [and in inclement weather it definitely isn't]... with the increasing number of paedophiles let out into the community, or at least the increased perception of that danger... can anyone blame parents for wanting to see their child safely into the school gates?

The terrible images of the young boy travelling on a tram alone for the first time... and meeting a paedophile... on the news today from Germany bring home the dangers to all responsible parents.

Protest on 10 Downing Street Website

2007-02-26T00:40:00.000-08:00

Did you sign?

And did you receive, and read, the e-mail reply?

It seems that the thin end of the wedge has already been 'gotten in'... in the bit where it says that some authorities are looking into road pricing. Local authorities are a law unto themselves... and what will the politicians say?

You can vote them out!

Then along will come another lot, just as bad as the previous bunch, if not worse! Whatever way you look at it... motorists lose.

The plain facts are that there is a finite amount of land within this island and we cannot build ALL over it... be the constructions housing, roads, or amenities.

[There is also a finite amount of water landing on the country... and if too much of it is wasted with leaks, and too much is required by OVERPOPULATION... then there is nothing to be done. Except a mass exodus plus more efficient maintenance!]

So extra people equals extra cars... and the closing of local amenities means the public has to travel further!

So road charging will not affect road usage - except to a very small degree. Staggered opening times for shops, offices, and schools... if considered in real detail... just won't work. How are people supposed to actually LIVE?

RoadUse

I received the following from a trusted source...

Petrol Prices & how to reduce them!

The Changing Face of Britain

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Interested? Then NOW is the time to find out more!

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Help required... and a freebie for you...

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Before you can drive anywhere...

Multi-lingual