Detoured CTA Red Line, Cermak to Madison (Pt. 1)

Over the weekend of April 28-29, because of construction, the CTA Dan Ryan Red Line was detoured from its normal route through the State Street subway up onto the south side and Loop elevated tracks used by the Orange, Brown, Pink and Green Lines. The Dan Ryan "L" had used these elevated tracks from its opening in 1969 to 1993, during which time it was through-routed with the Lake Street elevated. If you remember when the area around the elevated tracks used to be auto-parts stores (one sold nothing but used taillights!), salvage yards and warehouses, you'll either be shocked or pleasantly surprised. Even though the switch had been announced in the newspapers and on televion for several days before this, trains had to sit in main stations for several minutes at a time while train operators answered questions from confused passengers. At these times, it might not be a bad idea to bring back temporary conductors;-)

The Houses of Astrology - Tenth House

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The tenth house shows your profession, your reputation and your standing (or lack thereof) in the community. It indicates your ego, status, fame and promotion. It's all about your achievements (realised or dashed) and how the world sees, evaluates and classifies you. The mid-heaven and the tenth house are usually one and the same (but not always) and any planets or aspects to the 10th (or mid-heaven) emphasise how others see you, remembering this area of the chart is where you are socially classified.

Being the house of your public image how you present yourself is of great importance and any planets here will help in understanding how others see you. This house will also tell you something about those who have some 'control' over you (the government, your boss, you're parent! and any other authority figure) study it carefully for planets or aspects to the 10th contain a wealth of information.

No chart can tell you what career you should or should not have but in careful analysis you can work out what kind of work or career you are best suited to. Study the elements, the signs and planets contained within the 10th Some of the Keywords given to the 10th are: Same sex parent: Your reputation: Career: Fame: Goals: Hang-ups! Being the house of hang-ups the 10th house forces us into thinking about what we've done or not done with our lives. Are we living true to ourselves or following in a parent's footstep? It also contains information regarding same sex relationships...

How we handle or accept responsibility is shown by any planets in this house and in life, how we are seen (responsible or otherwise) is how we are 'classified.' Keep in mind this little secret about the 10th for once a year the Sun will enter this sector and during this month we're often embarrassed in some way by something we've said, done or are doing - your public image. When planets transit this house (calling the Moon a planet) for convenience we need to be aware of our public image. Remember, like it or not "first impressions go a long way" when people are forming an opinion of you - particularly job interviews (the house of career, remember/)

Relationships here are impersonal (who was it that said "there's no sentiment in business?") where what you're seen to have accomplished is what counts, you private life or thoughts should not be allowed or seen to interfere. Look to any transits or aspects to this house and see if you're on your way up or on your way down for the 10th house is the pinnacle of the chart...

The following should get your thinking going: The Sun wants to shine; the Moon wants to be remembered. Mercury will give you intelligence; Venus will give you good looks and Mars will give you the energy to achieve whatever it is you want to achieve. Jupiter can take everything for granted whereas Saturn will work long and hard to achieve whatever he/she wants. Uranus will rebel and Neptune looks after everyone or becomes everyone's slave! Pluto will give you power (whether you use this constructively or destructively will depend on other factors in the chart).

Just as the 4th house is considered the emotional house the 10th house is considered the mental house (the 4th being opposite the 10th). The 4th house is the past, the 10th house the future. One is subjective (4th) the other objective (10th). The element of the sign on the cusp of the 10th will give you clues as to what energy is available or what information you can apply in understanding the 10th. For example the element of earth would make you practical, the element of fire would give you enthusiasm. The air element asks you to communicate whereas the water element asks you to take some time out every now and again.

Look to the 2nd house (income) and the 6th house (work) for more information about the 10th for in understanding these houses you'll come to understand the 10th. How one accepts and is seen to handle responsibility determines ones position in life. In career or profession it's usually those who are seen to be filled with confidence to be those favored by those in authority...

Until next time: "Happy 10th"

Numerology and Astrology have been my life and passion for over 30 years. I've been published numerous times and still have something new to offer each time I hit the keyboard - who wants to read the same old same old? I believe if you have a philosophy and no one knows about it, it doesn't mean anything. If you have an idea or insight and tell no one - it's meaningless.

Visit my website: http://www.astronumbers.com.au and see what I'm talking about

Airline Travel Etiquette - How to Get the Most Out of Your Leisure Travel

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The Sophisticated Traveler

As you board the plane, set the tone for the rest of the flight. Acknowledge the flight attendants with a smile and a warm "Hello." If you're allowed only one carry-on item, don't cheat by carrying on more. Don't move other people's belongings around in order to cram your own belongings into the overhead bin.

Nothing looks more cloddish than slogging down the aisle carrying department store shopping bags. Pack an extra collapsible tote bag with you for your return trip to handle your overflow purchases. If you're wearing a back pack, avoid clobbering passengers on the head with it as you search for your seat. Once you find that seat, excuse yourself if you need to disturb other passengers when you sit down.

No one appreciates a traveler who...

• Talks loudly during the flight attendant's safety lecture, thus denying essential information to white-knuckled novice passengers unfamiliar with safety procedures.


• Spreads out newspapers when seated in the "sandwich seat" between two other passengers.


• Rushes to the plane's magazine rack and grabs all the good magazines, leaving little for others to read besides Whale Watchers International.


• Treats flight attendants with disrespect. Cursing at an attendant or exhibiting drunken behavior can cause you to be unceremoniously escorted off the plane. Flight attendants are given a good amount of discretion in deciding what constitutes disruptive behavior. Air Transport Association rules state "if a passenger's behavior is offensive to other passengers on board, then the airline reserves the right to deny boarding or to ask for the passenger to be removed."


• Chats non-stop on the air phone.


• Leaves the restroom messy.


• Wears overpowering fragrance.


• Places shoes on the seat cushion.


• Takes up two arm rests.


• Occupies a portion of another passenger's seat.


• Adjusts the seat into a reclining position.


• Talks incessantly to another passenger, who is obviously trying to get some work done.


• Assumes that fellow passengers and attendants are on board for their entertainment.

Deflecting the Chatterbox

Know when not to carry on a conversation by being tuned into the body language of others. If your attempts to make small talk are met with short answers and no follow-on questions, you should get the hint. If your fellow passenger begins to read a book or work on a computer, the hint becomes obvious. By the same token, there is no need to feel obligated to talk to fellow passengers if you are the subject of unwelcome chatter. To discourage others from talking to you, turn on your iPod or open a magazine. If you do chat with them for a few minutes, you might then smile and say, "I really enjoyed talking to you, but I'm on a deadline to finish this work."

When you travel by air, don't check in your manners along with your luggage. If you extend to other passengers the same consideration you want from them, your travel experience will be relaxing and stress free.

Bon voyage!

Naomi Poulson is a leading authority in the etiquette and protocol industry, and is nationally recognized as an expert in her field.
To learn more about Naomi's business, corporate and individual programs, to contact her, or to purchase her book or DVD, visit her website at http://www.etiquette-school.com

Copyright 2010 The Etiquette School All rights reserved worldwide

Commuter Railway Blues

This song is dedicated to all those who take the CTA - the Chicago Transit Authority. It's a mess. And sometimes the tracks catch on fire.

CTA plays Fourth of July in Clifton Park

California Transit Authority — featuring Chicago founder Danny Seraphine on the drums — performs "Saturday in the Park" at the annual Clifton Park Fourth of July celebration in Clifton Common. For more on CTA, visit the band's official website at www.ctatheband.com.

Helping With the Gas Crisis - What You Can Do For Your Employees

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The national average price for regular gas has topped $4 a gallon and we are all feeling the pinch. Your customers are driving less, spending more of their money on gasoline and less on other products. Your suppliers are charging more to cover the cost of transportation and those costs are likely being passed on to your own customers. If you have a delivery arm to your business, you have probably had to raise the price on that as well to cover the increases. However, have you considered the expenses of your own employees? How much does it cost for them to go to and from work each day or, more to the point, what percentage of their income must now be devoted to commuting and what can you, as an employer, do to ease the pain caused by ever-increasing fuel prices?

The Four-Day Work Week

Consider the employee who makes $500 per week and who has been with your company since gasoline was at $2 per gallon. Assuming an 18-gallon gas tank, when they were hired the price of getting to and from work stood at $36. That means their take home pay, less the amount they pay to commute every week, is $464. Today, with gas at $4 per gallon, that same tank of gas costs $72, leaving them $428 and that is before taxes! Can they afford to work for you at that salary with so much of their income going into their gas tank?

Enter the four-day work week. By going from five 8-hour days to four 10-hour days, that same employee can save a significant 20% or about $14.40 on gasoline each week. Savings like that could equal a free tank of gas every five weeks.

Telecommuting

Telecommuting is a voluntary work alternative in which the employee performs their work somewhere other than the office, usually at their home. The impact of this arrangement can be similar to that of the 4-day week or far more profound depending on the number of days the employee works from home. Obviously, the more days worked from home, the greater the savings in fuel costs. The key to making this work is that the employee's offsite work environment must be a place of minimal distractions that is conducive to accomplishing their work. They need to have a computer and an Internet connection, access to the company network-or at least to their own work PC-a business phone and any other special items that may be required for their job. For some, this might entail an upfront out of pocket expenditure, but that would easily be made up in savings.

While telecommuting is not appropriate for all jobs, for those who can do it-certain professionals, administrative staffers, sales people and executives-it does have certain benefits including lower fuel costs and less time spent in the voluntary solitary confinement (VSC) of their car-with all the mechanical wear and tear that implies-staring at the back of the head of the VSC inmate in front of you.

Carpools

Putting together a carpool program is an excellent alternative to changing work schedules and locations. As long as the members of the carpools are in reasonably close proximity to one another and work similar or identical schedules then there should be little problem. It can be as easy as announcing the program and its benefits to your employees and creating a sign-up sheet for carpool assignments.

One thing you should definitely point out when introducing such a program is the fact that sharing rides is a great way to lower the cost of commuting, something that is on everyone's mind these days. To give an idea of the kind of savings your employees could enjoy with a ride sharing arrangement, Long Island Transportation Management, Inc., developed a handy calculator [http://www.litm.org/cost.htm]. Assuming that your full time employee's car gets 20 MPG on a commute (round trip) of 50 miles, that their cost-per-mile for maintenance, taxes, etc. is typical and that they pay about $125 per month for parking, the estimated annual cost of drive-alone commuting is $10,383! By carpooling with another employee, that drops to $5,191.50; with two others its $2,595.75 and with three, the annual cost of commuting to work is $1,730.50.

Public Transportation

As an employer, your local public transit system can offer a variety of programs and alternatives for your employees. One such program in the Chicago area is called the Transit Benefit Fare Program.

According to the Illinois Regional Transportation Authority, the Transit Benefit Fare Program is a low- or no-cost benefit for both employers and employees that permits employees to pay for transit using pre-tax income in amounts up to $115 per month ($1,380 per year). Employers have a choice in whether they want to subsidize this benefit for their employees and, if so, at what level. Regardless, the result would be a reduction in taxes for both the employee and the employer while employees would be able to purchase various types of fare media that can be used for their commute to and from work. Similar programs can be found all over the country and they go a long way toward making the commute easier and far less expensive than driving alone.

The Bottom Line

Whether you help with getting public transportation, arranging carpools or altering the working environment either through telecommuting or a shortened work week, the fact that you are trying to take material steps to help your employees through these difficult times of high energy prices, it will have a marked effect on your workforce. Studies in the first decades of the 20th century demonstrated that workers performed better, showed greater productivity, simply because management paid attention to them. Here is a chance for you to pay attention to something real and challenging in their lives. You won't be disappointed with the results.

Charles Cooper is the Web Editor and blogger for http://www.gowithabc.com , the Web site for America's Best Companies. He is also a staff writer for America's Best: The Magazine for Small Business Owners.

A Travel Guide to Chicago, Illinois - Its Main Attractions

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Chicago is a very popular city with lots of attractions. It is known for the Chicago Cubs; the Chicago Bears, Super Bowl Champs; the "EL," fast transit elevated trains; the Art Institute; Lakeshore Drive, the Lake Michigan Shoreline Park and the Chicago Zoo. Besides, some famous personalities like Oprah Winfrey, Dr. Phil and President Barak Obama and his family have made Chicago their home. It is known for the best restaurant food in the country. One can enjoy the best hot dogs at different places in downtown Chicago, the ballpark and local restaurants.

The two main airports are O'Hare International Airport, one of the world's busiest and Midway International Airport, mainly for domestic services. The Chicago Transit Authority operates buses, El trains, diesel electric buses, trolley cars, taxis and charter cars. Tourists are advised to contact Local Tour Operators for getting air tickets, accommodations and entrance tickets for major events in the city at reasonable prices.

The main attractions in Chicago include Sears Tower, the highest building in the world; Millennium Park; the Shedds Aquarium from 1930; Adler Planetarium; Astronomy Museum and Navy Pier. A Chicago City Pass permits the visitors to see five attractions, plus the Tommy Guns Garage Dinner; The Medieval Times Dinner with knights and a four-course meal; some bicycle tours and trolley Hop on/Hop off Tours. One can go to the Oprah Winfrey show or see Magnificent Mile, the high-end shopping area. Chicago has many Kid Friendly museums, Lincoln Park Zoo, Guy Getaways, events, parades, shows and special celebrations.

Some other attractions, that must not be missed, are Shoreline Drive, Boat Tours, Lakefront Cruises, the Wrigley Building, Wrigley Field, the Museum of Contemporary Art, River North Gallery District, Oak Street Beach, the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum, etc. There are many restaurants going well with everyone's taste. Fast food restaurants and sit down restaurants offering a large variety of cuisines, informal, romantic or stylish, you wish anything and it will be easily available in Chicago.

It is better and more economic to book Activity Holidays through Local Tour Operators. Packaged Tours include the minimum airfares and lodging for Activity Holidays. Chicago Tours arranges for fun-filled Activity Holidays seeing the main attractions and celebrations in Chicago. All the guidelines mentioned above will make one's trip to Chicago a real fun.

Browse through the extensive USA Travel Guide For All to find detailed information regarding flights to US, tourist destinations, state-wise travel information, and lots more.

CTA California Transit Authority - Full Circle

As press representative for California Transit Authority (CTA)-- Danny Seraphine (drums), Marc Bonilla (guitar), Peter Fish (keyboards), Mick Mahan (bass), Larry Braggs (lead vocals) and Edward Harris Roth (keyboards). Guests on the album include: Sheila E. (timbales), Alex Acuna (congas) and Keith Emerson (organ solo) on I'm a Man. When it initially arrived on the scene, Chicago was known as Chicago Transit Authority or CTA. As such, California Transit Authority is drummer Danny Seraphines trip back to the future, effectively tipping his hat to his past with his feet firmly planted in the here and now. Aptly titled FULL CIRCLE, CTAs debut album brings Seraphine back to his roots. Yet the journey wouldnt have been possible if it wasnt for a series of unfortunate events that led the drummer to pack away his kit for 17 years as he battled his personal demons until he rediscovered his muse. On Mothers Day in 1990, Seraphine was unceremoniously ousted from Chicago, a band he helped found and define for 23 years. The move left him devastated. A protracted legal battle followed and then a divorce. As Seraphine admits, All the wheels fell off at once and it brought me to my knees. While the band revisits early Chicago classics Im A Man, Make Me Smile and Colour My World on FULL CIRCLE, CTA isnt just a nostalgia trip. I wouldnt have been involved in it if it was a revival thing or tribute band, guitarist Marc Bonilla says. Thats why we wanted to take those songs, the early ones ...

WICKED CTA TRAIN CROSSING

Not that wicked, but if you like the chicago Transit Authority elevated trains making a crossing at the grade level on the northside of Chicagoland, you may like this video. This train was a subway but goes elevated after this grade crossing gate.

Commonwealth Games 2010 - The Clock is Ticking For New Delhi India

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India Calling

79 years ago, in the year 1930, the 1st commonwealth games were held in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, where 11 nations sent 400 athletes to take part in the event. At the moment the clock strikes 10 am, the date is June 6, 2008! Exactly 849 days, 5 hrs 51min and 13 sec from now, India will finally make history by hosting the 20th commonwealth games in 2010 from 3rd to 14th October. The event will shoot India into the limelight for being the second Asian nation after Malaysia, to host the games.

Delhi, the capital of the biggest democracy in the world, is the city which has been honored with this opportunity to host the world's 3rd largest sporting event. India took over the commonwealth flag from Melbourne on the closing ceremony of 2006 commonwealth games, since then it has been gearing up to meet the international standards for holding such a grand event. Hosting such an event is a matter of great pride for India as well as Delhi. Delhi won this golden chance of hosting the games by defeating 22 other contesting nations by 46 votes. Such an event would not only bring fame and glory to the city, but it will also boost the tourism, and Delhi is bracing itself for it.

Infrastructure development

The prime concern of Delhi government has been to develop infrastructure of the city to host the 2010 commonwealth games Delhi has been working on it for five years now, by the end of 2009, Delhi aims at becoming a world class city with excellent infrastructure along with transport and gaming facilities. Master plans have been made to improve Delhi's face which includes 10 new flyover projects, there are plans to increase the green stretches along the road sides and flyovers. A number of stadiums are being built and renovated for the game venues. Delhi's public transport facilities are also being developed by the introduction of low lying buses, and BRT (Bus rapid transit) corridors are being constructed to improve the city's messy transport condition. The commonwealth games 2010, costing a sum of Rs.5, 165 crore, will be bringing tens of thousands of visitors. The only time when Delhi saw so many foreigners in the city was in 1982, during the Asiad games.

The venues

The venues for the sporting events will be spread all across the city. The events will be Rugby, Weightlifting, Squash, Table Tennis, Aquatics, Athletics, Gymnastics, Hockey, Badminton, Basketball, Boxing and Triathlon. The events will be taking place in the already existing outdoor and indoor stadiums like Indira Gandhi Indoor Complex, Talkatora Indoor stadium, Siri Fort Sports Complex along with a number of newly constructed stadiums in Delhi University and other places. An entire Games Village is coming up in Noida which will be the main venue for most of the gaming events.

Games village

A new state-of-the-art Games Village is being built by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) with a focus on maximizing athlete comfort. The site is off the National Highway 24 adjacent to the Akshardham temple at the Noida intersection. To be created at a cost of USD 230.7 million (including Residential Zone), the Games Village will be spread over an area of 63.5 hectare (158.4 acre). The games village is a cornerstone of the Delhi government's plans to transform the capital into a "global city". Like most of the frantic real estate development happening in and around Delhi as part of these plans, the Games Village too is being built by private builders; the MGF group in partnership with the Dubai based Emaar Properties. The site will be ready by the end of next year. Within its immediate vicinity exist internationally known monuments and landmarks like the Bahai Temple, Humayun's Tomb, Akshardham Temple etc. Surrounded with a dense green natural cover, the Village will provide a relaxing and soothing environment for the athletes and officials. This integrated township will have stadiums that will hold sports events. It will also have residential complexes to provide accommodations to participants, staff and volunteers.

Walt Disney's Influence Can Still Be Seen in the Magic Kingdom

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Walt Disney was one of the most talented men to ever walk this earth. He devoted his life to entertaining whole families. His last project was Walt Disney World and specifically the Magic Kingdom. He died before his last and best project was completed, but his hand can be clearly seen all over the park today.

Uncle Walt started planning for Disney World in the late 50's and 60's. He used the 1964 World's Fair as a testing ground for several new rides and to see if East Coast audiences would respond to his type of entertainment. Needless to say the fair was a huge success, especially for Uncle Walt. He immediately went to work on the "Florida Project" but died before it opened.

Uncle Walt's stamp still looms large over the Magic Kingdom, the original part of the "Florida Project". To see just how big an influence Uncle Walt still is, here's a list of the current rides that Uncle Walt had a hand in.

On Main Street USA -

• The Monorail - Part of Uncle Walt's infatuation with transportation. Uncle Walt thought it would be the future of mass transit.


• Walt Disney World Railroad - Uncle Walt loved trains. He had a steam engine and a half mile track in his back yard.


• All the buildings on Main Street - these are modeled after Walt's hometown of Marceline Missouri.

Cinderella Castle - This was one of Walt's greatest inspirations. Walt wanted a central gathering place easily accessible from any area of the park. The Magic Kingdom is still the easiest theme park to navigate because of the paths leading to Cinderella Castle.

In Fantasyland -

• Cinderella's Golden Carousel - This was part of the park when it opened. Uncle Walt's dream was to build a clean place where families could enjoy time together.


• Dumbo - What genius. Take a hokey state fair ride and give it a little character (or a big character in this case) and you have one of the most loved rides anywhere.


• The Mad Tea Party - Another amusement park ride that Uncle Walt made special.


• It's a Small World - This ride was built for the World's Fair. It was the first ride to transport people by boat through a ride.

In Liberty Square -

• The Hall of Presidents was one of the last projects Uncle Walt worked on. At the World's Fair Mr. Lincoln was the first audio-animatronic figure to ever be displayed.


• Tom Sawyer Island is another of Walt's ideas. Give kids a place to just romp and play. What a concept in the middle of a theme park.


• Haunted Mansion - A Walt Disney original. It was way ahead of it's time. The attraction opened in 1971 with a head in glass, dancing ghosts, and a million other spooks.

In Frontierland -

• Country Bear Jamboree - Another of the audio-animatronics wonders that Uncle Walt created. It still wows audiences today.


• Frontier Shootin' Gallery - Another cheap carnival side show that Uncle Walt dressed up into a not to be missed attraction.

In Adventureland -

• Jungle Cruise - A copy of the Disneyland ride with a few extras.


• Pirates of the Caribbean - This opened a couple of years later, but it was one of Walt's projects.


• Swiss Family Treehouse - Take the set of the movie and let people walk through it. What a novel idea.


• Enchanted Tiki Room or "Tropical Serenade" - This is still the same basic show that Uncle Walt designed, although some new touches have been added.

In Tomorrowland -

• Space Mountain - Take a fairly tame roller coaster, put a building around it and turn off the lights. What do you have? One of the best rides ever invented.


• Tomorrowland Transit Authority or WEDway People Mover - Uncle Walt thought this and the monorail would be the transportation of the future. We're just now testing his ideas in high-speed trains. He was just slightly ahead of his time.


• Tomorrowland Speedway - These little cars were part of the original design. They still putt-putt around today.


• Carousel of Progress - It debuted at the Worlds Fair to long lines and adoring fans. The past, the present and the future all in one place. It's getting a little old, but it's still a classic.

Uncle Walt died almost 40 years ago, but his hand still guides the Magic Kingdom. What an incredible man.

Dad has more information about Uncle Walt's Magic Kingdom, check out Dad's Magic Kingdom page. You'll get information on all the rides and attractions.

At Dad's Guide to WDW, we believe that going on a Disney World vacation is an adventure that should last longer than just a few days. Come see how we lengthen your vacation and help you make memories that will last a lifetime.

Get started today.

This article may be reprinted if a link to dadsguidetowdw.com is included.

Chicago CTA Buses in action

Please watch this video in high-quality mode before commenting! Here are Chicago CTA buses in action! This was recorded in early-May of this year. UPDATE: Please be advised that all of the TMC RTS #4400 series have been retired since early to mid-December of 2008, including the1991's Flxible Metro-B #5300 series have also been retired. And also, the 1995's New Flyer D40LF #5800 series were also retired too. Right now, the unrehabbed Flxible Metro-E buses may be next on the retirement list. NEW UPDATE: All NABI Articulated buses have been retired due to structual problems with its articulated joints. All drivetrain engines and automatic transmissions include: Detroit Diesel Series 50/ZF Ecomat 5HP-590 Detroit Diesel Series 50 EGR/ZF Ecomat-2 6HP-602C Detroit Diesel 6V92TA/ZF Ecomat 5HP-590 Cummins ISM/ZF Ecomat-2 6HP-592C Detroit Diesel 6V92TA/ V731 Cummins ISC/ZF Ecomat-2 6HP-592C Detroit Diesel Series 50/VR731 & Cummins L-10/M-11/ZF Ecomat 5HP-590 or Voith D863.3 (Unavilable)

Chicago - I Don't Wanna Live Without Your Love (Traducido Español)

Chicago es, junto con Blood, Sweat & Tears (BS&T), la banda más representativa de lo que se dio en llamar Jazz Rock. Se fundó en la ciudad de su mismo nombre, en 1967, aunque inicialmente se denominó "Chicago Transit Authority", nombre que debieron recortar por problemas jurídicos con el ayuntamiento de la ciudad. El grupo aún permanece en activo en 2010. "I don't wanna live without your love," un éxito para Chicago, que alcanzó el número 3 en las listas de popularidad de los EE.UU en 1988.

Chicago Union Station Airport Connection - Travel From Chicago O'Hare Airport to Union Station

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As Amtrak's Chicago train station, Chicago Union Station is an exciting place to begin or end a train trip. But if you are flying into Chicago O'Hare Airport before starting your rail adventure, you have numerous options for transportation between the airport and train station. Each travel mode has its advantages and disadvantages depended on what it important to you.

Here are five ways to travel from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Chicago Union Station:

One: There are mass transit trains operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) available to ride. They run 24 hours a day from inside O'Hare Airport to the Clinton station three blocks south of Union Station. The cost is $2.25 per person. The advantages to taking the CTA train are the inexpensive cost and all-day service. The major disadvantages include the necessity to walk outside downtown between the CTA and Union Station and the lack of accessibility for the disabled at the Clinton station.

Two: The regional commuter rail line, METRA, has a stop on its North Central Service at Chicago O'Hare Airport. This line terminates at Union Station where you can easily connect to your Amtrak train. At $3.80 per person, the cost is reasonable and the METRA trains are comfortable. Unfortunately, the service is only available Monday through Friday, mainly during rush hours. Also, to reach the O'Hare Transfer METRA stop from the terminals, you must take a monorail and a bus. This may take 30 to 45 minutes.

Three: Shuttle vans to/from Chicago Union Station can also be reserved. These vans are usually clean and comfortable and you receive door-to-door service. At around $30 per person this service is cheaper than taxis but more expensive than mass transit. But you need to reserve, in advance, a quality shuttle van service that will arrive punctually. Also, you will be sharing the van with other passengers that may be dropped off before you arrive at your destination.

Four: At both O'Hare Airport and Union Station, there are taxis available for hire. They will transport you and your party door to door without stops. At $40 plus charges for additional people and luggage pieces, it could be a cost effective way of transporting two or three people. But the quality and comfort of taxis vary considerably in Chicago. Also, do not take rides from "taxi services" that solicit in or out of the terminal or train station that is not in the designated taxi line!

Five: If you have three or more people in your party or if you like to travel in style, a chauffeured sedan or limousine will likely be the best way to travel between Chicago O'Hare Airport and Chicago Union Station. Sedans hold three or four people and cost about $95 to hire the vehicle. Stretch limousines cost around $140 and can hold up to six people comfortably. On a per person basis, this option may be cheaper than any other non-transit mode of transportation. But be sure you reserve, in advance, a vehicle that is clean and comfortable with all of the amenities since limo companies vary in quality.

Charles Self is the editor of the Amtrak Train Stations Across America website. At http://www.passengertraininfo.com/chicagoairporttravel.aspx you will find additional information on transportation between Chicago Union Station and Chicago O'Hare Airport and information about other Amtrak train stations.

Chicago Transit Authority - "Beginnings" [Studio Version]

Off of the self-titled debut of Chicago Transit Authority [later to be known as Chicago]

Sample Discoveries 6

Samples I randomly come across as I buy records. #6: First batch I've found in the last few days. I'm on a one-month winter break now and have more free time than I know what to do with... meaning hours of going through records. --- Jungle Brothers - "Doin' Our Own Dang" Done By The Forces Of Nature (Warner Bros., 1989) Commodores - "I Like What You Do" Natural High (Motown, 1978) --- Das EFX - "If Only" Dead Serious (EastWest, 1992) Stanley Turrentine - "The Man With The Sad Face" The Man With The Sad Face (Fantasy, 1976) --- Channel Live - "Reprogram" Station Identification (Capitol, 1995) Chicago - "Poem 58" The Chicago Transit Authority (Columbia, 1969) --- Prefuse 73 - "Afternoon Love In" Vocal Studies + Uprock Narratives (Warp, 2001) Paul Horn - "Agra" Inside (Epic, 1968) ---

Solid Security Glass Block Windows & Walls For Commercial, Architectural and Institutional Projects

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"We can't stop the thugs in this neighborhood from breaking out, shooting out, and vandalizing these expensive insulated glass windows we put in the school just last year," the maintenance supervisor said. "Do you have a solution that can stop our cycle of throwing good money after bad?" he said. Unfortunately this is not an unfamiliar concern with owners, managers, and maintenance supervisors of commercial buildings, schools, courthouses, and transit authorities.

How can you stop this cycle of spending, time loss, and frustration? Consider solid glass block window and walls. In this article you'll learn:

1. Why architects and building owners use high security glass masonry units
2. Where to use solid blocks and glass bricks.
3. Options and accessories in security blocks and bricks.

Why architects and building owners use high security glass masonry units

The cheapest way to put up a glass window or wall in a commercial, architectural, or institutional project is with a standard single pane or insulated glass system constructed generally with a vinyl or aluminum framing system. However if your business or facility is located where graffiti, vandalism, bullets, bad weather, noise, or fire are a concern the lowest initial cost window or wall system may not be the answer for achieve the best life cycle costs. The Vistabrik line of solid security glass blocks from Pittsburgh Corning may be what you're searching for. Some reasons building owners have chosen this line of blocks include:

Bullet resistant- These blocks are UL tested and made of 3" thick glass to resist penetration from high impact weapons including 9 mm and .357 magnum bullets.

Reduce vandalism and graffiti - With "non-stick" glass surfaces graffiti is easier to remove and forcible entry is difficult since 8" x 8" x 3" blocks weigh 40 lbs. per square foot mortared together.

Fire resistant - When a higher level of building safety and fire resistance are desired without having to look at ugly wires in the glass, solid glass blocks are a preferred choice. Window panels can be designed with 45, 60, and 90 minute UL approved fire ratings.

Noise reduction - Buildings near train stations, large crowds, traffic, and machinery can be hard to lease and suffer from poor employee productivity. Solid glass bricks have a Sound Transmission Class of 53 and a noise reduction coefficient of .05 resulting in quieter interior spaces.

Cut maintenance costs - Solid glass masonry units can reduce total costs of ownership if you select this durable, hard to break block at the initial stages of the building project - thereby saving ongoing maintenance costs of repair and replacing glass windows and walls.

Where to use solid blocks and glass bricks

Here are some places where solid glass blocks have been used most frequently in commercial, institutional and architectural projects:

Gymnasiums and recreation facilities - one installation is Lloyd Hall in Philadelphia Pennsylvania.

Elevated walkways and parking garages - (check out the walkway at Perry High School in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and parking garage at Logan Airport in Boston Massachusetts).

Glass block stairwells, shelters, and walls in transit stations, jails, detention centers, courthouses, police stations, and embassies - Solid glass units provide security without giving up light and looks. Some interesting installations include Yankee Stadium Complex for the New York City Transit Authority and the Clay County Detention Center in Liberty Missouri.

Glass block windows in factories and manufacturing buildings - A building owner in Columbus Ohio is planning to use solid glass bricks to replace insulated glass aluminum framed windows that have been getting broken and shot out.

Options and Accessories in Security Blocks and Bricks

If you're looking for a clear view window or wall or need higher privacy, then the selection of solid glass blocks is for you. For a high clarity look there are 8" x 8" x 3", 4" x 8" x 3" and 3" x 8" x 3" sizes available. For higher privacy projects the 8" x 8" x 3" size can be supplied with a stippled face.

The solid blocks are generally mortared together with galvanized panel reinforcing through the horizontal mortar joints (usually every 24") and panel anchors (every 24" as well) to tie the window panels into the jambs or sides of the opening. These glass masonry units also meet tempered glass windows standards due to their strength.

Conclusion

Keeping building costs and security and safety concerns down has never been as important as it is today in our unstable world. Using solid security glass block windows and walls can be one step to provide building owners, employees, and parents with increased comfort, style, security and most importantly - peace of mind.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & Vice President of Eastern Glass Block New York & New Jersey - nationwide factory direct suppliers of fire rated and solid glass block for security and safety. Mike's companies also professionally supply and install glass block windows, walls, and showers.

Nationwide 877-668-5888

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/products-security.aspx solid glass blocks for fire safety & security.

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/ - glass block windows, walls, showers, and colored glass block.

South Carolina State Fair is Big Business

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The South Carolina State Fair is held every year in Columbia during mid to late October. It's been going for over a hundred years and has gotten to be big business in the touristy area of the Carolinas.

As such there are lots of hotels in the area ready to cater to the needs of tired fair goers. and if you are outdoorsy and looking to save a little money there are lots of campgrounds nearby ready to help out with a place to stay.

This may be one of the only State Fairs in the country that has been actively returning money to the community. Every year they offer thousands of dollars in scholarships to local students in High Schools and Colleges.

Music lovers attending the fair can enjoy special concerts by famous musicians on the Pepsi Grandstand stage. These concerts are extra and you may need to purchase your tickets in advance to be sure of getting seating to see your favorite artists.

You can still find the classic homegrown exhibits at this fair though. Competitive exhibits include southern classics like Best bushels of Pecans, and sweet potatoes. The judges also highly enjoy tasting and evaluating homemade Red Wines, White Wines and Dessert Wines. As a special treat to gear up for the holidays they have a Christmas tree division for the best looking Christmas Trees

They have a special Fair Princess and Prince Pageant, with divisions for the girls ranging from newborn to twenty years and over and one division in four parts from newborn to six years and over for the boys. They air the finals of the pageant live on television so fair goers who attend the pageant may end up on television in one of those crowd viewing panorama sweeps of the camera.

Carnival rides such as the Scooter, Afterburner and the Euroslide on the Midway at the fair will certainly excite you, thrill you and upset a few people's stomachs. Since food is the number one reason people attend the fair it's only fitting that they should have a lot of it. You can find Baklava, Cole Slaw, Pecan Rolls, Greek Salads, and even London broil along with the commonly found Candy Apples, Corn Dogs and Roasted Peanuts.

Gail Leino is known throughout the internet world as Mrs. Party. She has become the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies with clever themes. Her simple party planning approach demostrates how to use proper manners while teaching etiquette with organizational skills. She shares lots of interesting fun facts. See travel vacations for more tips and holiday spot destinations.

Chicago Train Rearview Window

This is a video I shot while on the CTA Blue Line, in the last car, looking out the back window. I usually get on at the Damen stop, which then leads to the Division stop (underground). Usually, the back car is fairly full - and oftentimes it's a crapshoot whether the back area is locked or accessible. I lucked out today, as the area was clear and accessible. And there was some fantastic light outside, to boot. It's no Star Guitar by any means, but still a fun glimpse of the CTA. Original blog entry here: www.avoision.com

Safety Comes First

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Mobile cranes are responsible for a large portion of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. An organization should be aware of the hazards involved in mobile crane operations. It is the employer's responsibility to provide training for all phases of safe crane operations and load handling. It is an employer's responsibility to ensure that all proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are utilized in crane operations.

Loads that are dropped by mobile cranes pose a severe hazard to any personnel involved in crane operations. The manufacturer's rated capacity shall never be exceeded, no matter what the reason. A mobile crane operator has the authority to refuse to lift any load if there is any question as to safety, the weight of the load, or any other reason. Per ASME B30.5-2007, it is the operator's responsibility to consult with the person in charge of the lift, or the site supervisor, and not lift until safety is assured. A load indicating device is a tool that is meant to assist an operator in not exceeding a crane's rated capacity, but is not meant to replace the operator's common sense and judgment. An organization should insure they are calibrated annually. A mobile crane operator should insure that the loads are rigged correctly and that the load hook is placed over the center of gravity of the load prior to lifting it. The person in charge of the lift shall inspect all sling and rigging hardware that is to be used.

When two or more cranes are used to lift one load, one designated person shall be responsible for the operation. That person shall analyze the operation and instruct all personnel involved in the proper positioning, rigging of the load, and the movements to be made. Decisions such as the necessity to reduce crane ratings, load position, boom location, ground support, and speed of movement shall be in accordance with this analysis.

Cranes coming into contact with energized overhead power lines are the number one killer of ground personnel in the United States. Prior to beginning work, a site safety analysis should be conducted where all potential hazards are identified and marked..

All lines should be considered energized unless the owning utility has provided written documentation stating that they are indeed de-energized. Always maintain the required clearances from electrical lines and sources as specified by ASME B30.5 and the applicable OSHA Regulation.

Operators should use an audible warning and operating signal device to notify workers of crane movement. If the operator has a limited view, a trained, qualified signal should direct the crane operations. No one shall be permitted to ride on the load or load hook. The load hook shall be secured when the crane is in transit to prevent side loading on the boom and possible boom damage. Lack of proper training is a major cause of accidents. Mobile crane operator training, in accordance with ASME B30.5, is required for all operators.

http://www.cicb.com

Designing A Sun Block For Child Abductions

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An abducted child is every parent’s most horrid nightmare and every detective’s most silent cringe. According to a report released by the State of Washington’s Attorney General’s Office (SWAG) in May of 1997 they found that the chances of recovering an abducted child alive will grow grimmer as the hours pass. In “74% of the case the victims were found dead with in three hours after their abduction”(1). Hence, there is no time to waste focusing on the wrong suspects.

There are two thought provoking findings revealed in the SWAG’s study that suggests, to the astrologically minded, that perhaps the art and science of Astrology (the study of the planets on human behavior), could offer an immediate means of identifying a child’s abductor if it the principals of Astrology are explored at length.

The two findings in the SWAG study (which resulted from the particulars that surrounded 600 child homicide cases from 44 states) that pushed attention over to Astrology were that “in 60% of the cases the abductors were found to be white males, unmarried. It is astrological principal that the zodiacal sign placement of the Sun (which is considered to possess masculine properties) will at ones birth, describe the males that will play important roles in that person’s life; whether for good or evil. This includes a child’s abductor; which again, the SWAG’s study found, is likely to be male (1).

The other finding in the SWAG’s study was that, “in 53% of the cases, the children and their abductor were strangers” (1). It can be figured from the balance of the 53% of children who were abducted by strangers, that the other 47% of the children in their study knew their abductors. It can then be furthered assumed from the figures presented that the chances of a new abducted child, knowing or not knowing their abductor, is almost equal. With this in mind, it leads to the assumption that law enforcement could certainly use a means that will help them immediately direct their focus on a known or unknown abductor—especially when time is of the essence.

Astrology could find its merit in abducted children cases if it was applied to the same cases that encompassed the SWAG’s study. By applying the quality of each zodiac sign at the birth of each abducted child in their study and cross-matching the zodiac sign with the fact of whether the child knew or didn’t know their abductor; Perhaps, a discernable pattern will exist and the result in turn can be a predictive tool to be used in future cases of abduction. Police would be able to better direct their focus when canvassing neighborhoods.

The SWAG’s study was conducted in cooperation with, and at the request of, the U.S. Justice Department. The project, which took three-years to complete, was motivated by the desire to learn how to investigate abduction type crimes against children. The study found that since there are only 100 child abduction murders in the United States each year, the “infrequency” of their occurrence doesn’t allow for any skills to be learned and applied when investigating these crimes (1). The over all breath of the report suggests that in the past the police didn’t know how to handle cases of abducted children. Although their study did make great breakthroughs they still lack the ability and means to quickly ascertain whether a child knows or does not know their abductor when a new case arises. When no public eye witnessing exists, they might be able to learn more if they take an astrological view of the Sun.

The word Astrology is derived from the Greek words, astra, a star, and logos, logic or reason. It literally implies the doctrine and law as shown by the stars or planets. The twelve signs of the zodiac belt make up the 360 degree band of space containing the orbit of the planets. The planets in their orbit around the Sun transverse the twelve signs of the zodiac belt. Each of the twelve zodiac signs (Aries thru Pisces) possesses a certain quality all their own.

An important advocate of the zodiac signs in Astrology was the very well respected and great contributor to the field of Psychology, Carl G. Jung. According to written correspondences between Sigmund Freud (another great contributor to the field of Psychology) and Carl Jung found in The Freud/Jung Letters, Jung wrote to Freud:

I dare say that we shall one day discover a good deal of knowledge that has been intuitively projected into the heavens. For instance, it appears that the signs of the zodiac are character pictures. In other words, libido symbols which depict the typical qualities of the libido at a given moment. Perhaps Jung, after his own observance into the validity of signs of the zodiac would agree today that it would be worth a further look in the matters of abducted children.

According to Robert Hand, an avid Jung follower, in his book entitled, Planets in Transit, imparts that:
"The transitting Sun has to do with men in general who you may encounter and persons in authority of either sex. Afflictions from the transitting Sun often indicate problems with authorities or men (47)."

What is meant by Afflictions, as referred to by Hand, are the aspects (by mathematical angle) from other planets to the Sun which will describe what type of problem with men one might endure in their lifetime.

Lets take a look at two cases of abducted females, who were later found murdered, and who knew their abductors. This first case is in the matter of New York’s Kali Ann Poulton. According to press writer Ben Dobbin, in an article entitled, Ex-neighbor Killed 4-Year-Old, published in South Coast Today, we learned that Kali’s neighbor, Mark Christi, confessed to her murder. Mark Christi had known Kali from the playground near both their homes. It was noted from a flyer circulated by the National Center for Missing & Exploited children that Kali Ann Poulton was born on September 20, 1989. A check of The American Ephermis for the 20th Century reveals that the Sun was positioned in the constellation (or zodiac sign) of Virgo.

Another abducted and murdered female who knew her abductor was Danielle Van Dam. According to Caruso and Maier in their book entitled, They’re Killing Our Children, it was learned that Danielle’s neighbor, David Westerfield, was her killer (10). A date of birth for Danielle as September 22, 1994 was taken from a memorial page hosted by the Elizabeth Smart web site. A check of The American Ephermis for the 20th Century reveals that the Sun at Danielle’s birth was also positioned in the constellation (or zodiac sign) of Virgo.

Both Danielle and Kali had their Sun’s positioned at birth in the zodiac sign of Virgo; and both had been abducted and murdered by their neighbors. Taking the influence of the constellation of Virgo a step further it was noted that Kali’s killer, Mark Christi, was a security guard according to Dobbin. Danielle’s killer, David Westerfield, according to Caurso and Maeir, engineered the design of medical devices (57). The sign of Virgo has historically been associated with people who were uniforms and people in the medical field. The Virgo sign signature had described details about both their abductors.

Now lets take a look at two cases of abducted females, who didn’t know their abductors. The first case is in the matter of New York’s Sara Anne Wood. According to press writer William Kates, in an article entitled, Lent Gets 25 to Life for Kidnapping, Murder, published in South Coast Today, we learned that Sara’s killer, Lewis S. Lent, traveled over one hundred miles from Massechusetts to New York to abduct her. In A Nationwide Publication of Missing Children it was reported that Sara Anne Wood was born on March 4, 1981 (21). A check of The American Ephermis for the 20th Century reveals that the Sun was positioned in the constellation (or zodiac sign) of Pisces.

In the abduction and murder of California’s Polly Hannah Klaas we will see another zodiac sign. In A Nationwide Publication of Missing Children it was reported that Polly Klaas was born on January 3rd 81 (21). It was noted from The American Ephemeris for the 20th Century 1900 to 2000 at Noon, that on that day, the Sun was positioned in the sign of Capricorn. Barry Bornick, in this book entiltled, Polly Klaas: The Murder of America’s Child, told readers that Polly’s killer, Richard Allen Davis, stopped in Petaluma on his way traveling to the town of Ukiah. Davis was a stranger to Polly (27).

The zodiac belt starts with the zodiac sign of Aries at zero degrees of the ecliptic. Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, and Virgo complete the first half of the belt. Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces finish the wheel. In the cases mentioned above we saw strangers present in the later signs of the Capricorn and Pisces; while the earlier sign of Virgo saw neighbors as the abductors. This type of observation if explored further against the SWAG’s study could become very distinguishable.

Astrological awareness is cases of missing children could offer police something of extreme value to their investigations if a more complete and comprehensive study was made using the cases already included in the SWAG’s study. The data needed to conduct the additional study is already collected. Checking birth dates for Sun sign position would be almost effortless. Once the numbers were in, intelligent minds (which would have to include a few seasoned Astrologers) could sift though the data and see what kind of correlations exist. What they find might surprise them.

Police Officers, who wouldn’t ordinarily trust the use of Astrology might give it more credence if the idea was forth coming by experts such as the SWAG’s study. The only other problem foreseen would lie in error. Meaning that if the taking of birth data is inadvertently recorded it will cause a misinterpretation of a child’s Sun sign and that could send an investigation into the wrong direction.

The U. S. Justice Department should seriously consider taking another in depth look at the cases in their child homicide study. Only, this time, applying an astrological view. If the facts that develop show a high correlation of known or unknown abductors to specific zodiac signs the approach can be used to offer an abductor’s identity when a new abducted child case arises and there are no public witnesses to the abduction that can help lead police in the right direction.

This article was written by Renee Francis after conducting her own research in the matter of missing children over the last fifteen years. To date, she has been responsible for the accurate location of 4 cases of missing persons using the gravitational pull of the planets. She strongly feels that a profiling system exists in Astrology that can be used to identify a child's abductor; as well as using the planets to offer high probable locations for the missing.

When you re-published or reprint this article you must keep the links intact so that someone who is suffering from a missing child can contact me. When you republish or reprint this article you participate in spreading the word that a Missing Child is unacceptable. If we don't look at every avenue that will help us bring a missing child home, then we are not doing all that is possible in their recovery and we fail our children.

Works Cited

Bortnick, Barry. Polly Klaas: The Murder of America’s Child. New York:
Kensington Publishing Corp. 1995.

Caruso, Michelle & Maier, Nicholas. They’re Killing Our Children: Inside the

Kidnapping and Child Murder Epidemic Sweeping America. Florida: AMI

Books Inc. 2002.

Dobbin , Ben. “Police: Ex-neighbor killed 4-year-old”. South Coast Today 11
August 1996.

Hand, Robert. Planets in Transit: Life Cycles for Living. Pennsylvania: Whitford
Press. Fifteenth printing, June 1987.

Freud, Sigmund. The Freud/Jung Letters: The Correspondence between

Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung. Edited by William McGuire. Princeton,

NJ : Princeton University Press, 1974.

Kates, William. “Lent Gets 25 to Life for Kidnapping, Murder”. Southcoast Today
12 April 1997.

Michelsen, Neil F. The American Ephemeris for the 20th Century 1900 to 2000 at
Noon. Revised Edition. San Diego, California: ACS Publications, Inc. 1988.

Missing Children Report. A Nationwide Publication of Missing Children.

Carmichael, CA. The Place of Good News. 1993.

State Attorney General releases Child Homicide Study. May 13,1997.

[http://www.wa.gov/ago/releases/homicide_report/sum_facts.num].

July 24, 00.

Renee Francis is a professional Astrologer located in Southern Colorado. Miss Francis offers a wide range of astrological services from natal chart erection to astrological report services. She also schedules private phoneconsult and designs specialized workshops around a groups own interests.

Miss Francis' real unrelenting passion for the stars however lies in her own independent study into the matter of missing children and the use of using the stars and planets as a tool in location and profiling possible suspects. .

When Miss Francis' isn't charting the stars for others, or playing around with the words that can be born of people names, she waits to hear from you.

When you visit her site Astrology for Today she offers visitors the opportunity to get a Free Full Color Natal Birth Chart with a free subscription to her newsletter wherein she shares her avid interest teaching others how to be their own best Astrologer.

Red Line Station Dedication

Mayor Richard M. Daley joined Chicago Transit Board Chairman Carole L.Brown, Chicago Transit Authority President Richard L. Rodriguez and 49th Ward Alderman Joe Moore at a ceremony to commemorate the completion of the Red Line Howard Station rehabilitation project.

Mayor Daley Reiterates City's commitment to Investing in Transit Infrastructure

Maintaining and improving the CTA system always has been -- and always will be -- one of the highest priorities of city government, Mayor Richard Daley said at the future site of the CTA's new $38 million Morgan Street station on the Green and Pink lines.

Truckers Under the Influence Endanger Passenger Vehicles

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At the present time, the federal government requires pre-employment drug tests and then random testing after being hired for all commercial truck drivers. The law specifically states that drivers with a commercial driver's license (CDL) are subject to drug testing as are truck owner-operators with a CDL and motor carriers who employ drivers with a CDL.

A recent study by the Insurance Institute for Traffic Safety showed that 15% of all interstate truck drivers had marijuana in their system, 12% had stimulants (non-prescription), 5% had prescription stimulants, 2% had cocaine and less than 1% had alcohol in their system.

Alcohol

Regarding alcohol use, a driver does not have to be drunk to be impaired. Even very low blood alcohol content (BAC) levels impair driving performance by reducing the driver's reaction time and slowing his decision-making process. At the current time, the federal government prohibits commercial truck drivers, railroad and mass transit workers, marine employees, and aircraft pilots from operating vehicles with a BAC at or greater than 0.04%. The number of accidents caused by intoxicated truck drivers has actually decreased in recent years. Statistics show that approximately only 1-3% of trucking accidents are caused by an impaired truck driver.

Marijuana

Many people have the false notion that driving after smoking marijuana is safer than driving after drinking. This is simply not true. Marijuana can affect concentration, perception and reaction time as long as 24 hours after it is smoked. That is much, much longer than alcohol affects a driver's behavior.

Marijuana has been found to be a factor in over 12% of fatal trucking accidents. In recent years, out of the truckers tested randomly for drugs and alcohol, a whopping 45% showed marijuana in their system.

Methamphetamine

Due to the very long hours they often have to work, truck drivers are always looking for ways to stay awake and alert to meet deadlines. It has been reported that 17 out of every 20 truckers say it is very easy to find methamphetamine at truck stops along their route. Truckers have recently been succumbing more and more to the powerful drug due to the fact it can keep people awake for several hours and sometimes days at a time. Surveys and roadside tests have indicated that one in five truckers use stimulants on some of their trips.

Perhaps there is a need for more drug testing of our nation's truck drivers. Though most truckers are tested randomly after their date of hire, many of them even say it is not often enough.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a truck accident in Colorado, please visit the website of experienced truck accident attorneys Hull & Zimmerman, serving clients in the Denver and Boulder areas of Colorado.

Sights and Interests in Salzburg, Austria

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If you love Mozart and large medieval castles, then Salzburg is the place for you. Salzburg is the fourth largest city in Austria, with a 2007 population of 150,000. It is situated on the banks of the Salzach River at the northern boundary of the Alps. The city sets off an interesting contrast between the majestic mountains to the south and the rolling plains to the north.

The massive Hohenslalzburg Castle sits atop Festungberg Hill and is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, with a length of 250 meters and a width of 150 meters. Construction of the fortress began in 1077 and construction continued throughout the centuries, as the ring walls and towers were built in the 1400s. The views are also spectacular from the castle.

You'll never forget that Salzburg was the birthplace of Mozart as you walk through the city. Everywhere you go you will hear his music, and there are two Mozart Museums in the city. You can also visit Mozart's birthplace and his residence.

Salzburg is a favorite destination of tourists; in fact there are certain times of the year when tourists outnumber locals by a large margin. There is certainly much to see in Salzburg -- the Baroque architecture in particular is world-famous, which includes many churches . The Salzburg Cathedral is another magnificent sight, and there are other castles such as the Anif Castle, along with the Schloss Klessheim Palace which is now a Casino and was once used by Adolf Hitler.

If you visit Salzburg in winter, there are excellent skiing areas in the Alps to the south. Salzburg also features a zoo, and there are many museums and attractions to keep you busy. Be sure to take advantage of a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city.

Cody has been writing and publishing articles on the web since 2001. Check out his latest website which is all about mailboxes -- from magnetic mailbox covers to stainless steel mailboxes and much more.

Chicago Transit Authority - 25 Or 6 To 4 - live, 1969

Toronto, 9-13-69. I got this from a 90's import cd, "Spirit of the Seventies," but it is available remastered on "Live In Concert: Toronto Rock And Roll Revival 1969."

1969 Beginnings

1969-08-31 - Lewisville, Texas As far as I know it's the 31st because they did play the 30th as well

Labor Beat: Rally for Mass Transit

Chicago Transit Authority union members and CTA transit users protested in front of the CTA headquarters on Wednesday, January 20. The ongoing and future threatened cuts by the CTA management will double wait times for bus riders, cut service to low income/minority areas, overcrowd buses and trains, to mention only a few serious effects. Speeches and interviews from Marcellus Barnes, International VP, Amalgamated Transit Union; Debbie Pittman, Concerned Citizens of Paratransit; Carlos Acevedo, Asst. Business Agent, ATU Local 241; Michael Simmons, Recording Sec., ATU Local 241; Diane Simons, ATU 241 member. 8 minutes. Produced by Labor Beat. Labor Beat is a CAN TV Community Partner. Labor Beat is a non-profit 501(c)(3) member of IBEW 1220. Views are those of the producer Labor Beat. For info: mail@laborbeat.org, www.laborbeat.org. 312-226-3330. For other Labor Beat videos, visit Google Video, YouTube, or blip.tv and search "Labor Beat".