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March 10, 2024

Dance Dad Competition Notes

Lowell Memorial Auditorium

This past weekend, we had an exhilarating dance competition at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium in Lowell, Massachusetts. The event showcased a multitude of talented dancers, and amidst the excitement, I picked up several valuable insights.

Here are the top five things I learned:

1. Auditorium Lighting Matters

In previous competitions, I would score along with the judges, jotting down my thoughts on each performance. However, this time, I faced an unexpected challenge - the auditorium lighting was too dim for note-taking. Lesson learned: Always be prepared for varying lighting conditions!

2. Snacks Are Essential

Dance days can be grueling, stretching from morning rehearsals to late-night performances. Despite any restrictions on outside food, sneaking in a few snacks is a smart move. I noticed others discreetly enjoying their Dunkin' Ice Coffee, bypassing the watchful eyes at the Lowell Auditorium entrance. After all, a well-timed snack can keep your energy levels up during those intense routines.

3. The Pricey Snack Bar

The onsite snack bar at the Lowell Auditorium surprised me with its steep prices. A 20-ounce soda set me back a whopping $5! My advice? Scout out nearby local shops. Familiarize yourself with their hours of operation--you might need to dash out for a quick meal if the awards ceremony runs late into Sunday evening. Proper meal planning ensures a smoother weekend experience for everyone.

4. Hotel Dining Dilemmas

When staying overnight, researching nearby restaurants is crucial. While delivery services like DoorDash and UberEats are convenient, they can also be pricey and occasionally unreliable. Our recent Chipotle order via DoorDash fell short--we didn't receive all the chips we'd requested. Was it DoorDash's fault or Chipotle's? Unclear. Lesson: Consider dining options beyond delivery apps.

5. Parking Predicaments

The closest town parking lot to the Lowell Auditorium charges a hefty $15 for special events. Yes, it's conveniently located for lugging those oversized dance bags, but you're paying a premium for proximity. Fear not! Two other lots offer better rates and are just a short walk away from the Lowell Memorial Auditorium.

Lower Locks Parking Facility is located on 90 Warren Street and Joseph M. Downes, Sr.?Facility on 75 John Street. Both of these large garages offer 24-hour parking for $11 or 6-hour parking for $9. These are great lots to park when your only going to the auditorium to watch a couple of dances. Both of these lots are within a 7-minute walk to the Lowell Memorial Auditorium.

Remember, every dance competition brings its own set of lessons--both onstage and off. Whether it's mastering a routine or navigating logistics, each experience contributes to our growth as dancers and event attendees.

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March 3, 2024

I Miss Slack

Microsoft Teams seems Basic

Miss Slack

As technology evolves, so does the way we communicate in the workplace. With the rise of remote work and distributed teams, having effective communication tools is more important than ever. Microsoft Teams and Slack are two prominent platforms in this arena, each with its own set of features and functionalities. But what happens when you're accustomed to one and then find yourself using the other?

Recently, I started a new job where the company uses Microsoft Teams for their chat and communication services. Having been an avid Slack user for about five years prior, I couldn't help but notice some differences and, dare I say, missed features that I had grown accustomed to.

Four Things I Missed in Slack

Let's take a closer look at what I found myself missing from Slack while using Microsoft Teams:

  • Conversation Threads: One feature that I sorely missed from Slack was conversation threads. In Slack, threads are a convenient way to keep the main chat channels clutter-free while allowing discussions to branch off naturally. It's easy to follow conversations and maintain context, something I found lacking in Microsoft Teams.
  • Custom Emoji: Expressing oneself in chat goes beyond mere text. Custom emoji in Slack allowed for personalization and added a touch of fun to conversations. While Microsoft Teams offers a range of emojis, the ability to create and use custom ones was sorely missed.
  • Collapse Preview: Image previews in chat can sometimes be distracting, especially in a busy channel. Slack's ability to collapse image previews provided a neat solution to this problem, allowing users to focus on the conversation without unnecessary distractions.
  • Reminders: Setting up personal and group reminders was another feature I found myself missing in Microsoft Teams. Whether it's reminding myself of a task or notifying the team about an upcoming event, Slack's reminder feature was a handy tool for staying organized and on top of things.

In Summary

While Microsoft Teams certainly has its own strengths and advantages, the transition from Slack wasn't without its challenges. However, it's worth noting that both platforms have been continuously evolving, with Microsoft Teams gradually introducing new features and improvements to bridge the gap between the two.

In conclusion, the choice between Microsoft Teams and Slack ultimately boils down to personal preference and the specific needs of your team or organization. While I may reminisce about the "good old days" of using Slack, I've come to appreciate the capabilities of Microsoft Teams and its role in facilitating effective communication and collaboration within the workplace.

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December 10, 2023

Liberty Pumps Pro 380 Failure

Sewage Pump Trip GFCI

The heart of a functional basement sewage system is undoubtedly the sewage pump. For a decade, our trusty Liberty Pumps Pro 380 had served us well, but recently, it began showing signs of fatigue, leading us on a journey of maintenance, troubleshooting, and eventually, replacement. This blog post details our experience, the challenges we faced, and how we resolved the issue of our sewage pump repeatedly tripping the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).

Liberty Pumps Pro380
Our Libery Pump Pro 380

The Initial Problem

About 10 months ago, we first encountered a problem with our Liberty Pumps Pro 380. The pump tripped the GFCI, a critical safety feature that prevents electrical shocks. At that time, a local plumber managed to fix the issue simply by resetting the switch. This solution seemed effective, but it was only a temporary fix.

Escalating Issues

Fast forward to recent weeks, the pump started tripping the GFCI more frequently ? more than three times a week. This was not only inconvenient but also concerning, as it hinted at a deeper underlying problem. Frequent tripping of the GFCI is often a sign that the pump is drawing more power than the electrical circuit can handle.

Decision to Replace

After some deliberation, we decided it was time to replace the pump. Considering it was ten years old, it had reached the typical lifespan of an average sewage pump. Continuous usage over a decade can lead to wear and tear, reducing the efficiency and safety of the pump.

Choosing the Right Replacement

We called upon a local sewage pump expert for this task. The goal was to install a new pump that wouldn't draw excessive power, thereby avoiding the issues we faced with the older model. It was important for us to choose a pump that was not only efficient but also compatible with our existing sewage system and electrical setup.

The Replacement Process

The plumber recommended a model that was known for its energy efficiency and reliability. The replacement process involved:

  1. Disconnecting the Old Pump: This was done with care, ensuring that all electrical connections were safely handled.

  2. Removing the Old Pump: The decade-old Liberty Pumps Pro 380 was removed from the sump pit.

  3. Installing the New Pump: The new pump was carefully installed, with attention to its positioning, connections to the sewage line, and electrical hookup.

  4. Testing the System: After installation, the system was thoroughly tested to ensure that everything was working correctly and that there were no issues with tripping the GFCI.

Conclusion

Replacing our basement sewage pump was a necessary and enlightening journey. Not only did it resolve the immediate issue of the GFCI tripping, but it also provided us with a more energy-efficient and reliable system. It's a reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and the need to be attentive to the signs of wear and tear in household appliances. We're now confident that our new sewage pump will serve us well for many years to come, keeping our basement dry and our electrical system safe. Remember, when dealing with such critical components of your home, always consult with professionals to ensure safety and efficiency.

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December 3, 2023

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer

Fun Facts

Red Nose Reindeer

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer came up in a conversation this weekend at a Santa Claus event. I thought it would be good to learn more about this character.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a beloved Christmas character with a fascinating history and some fun facts:

  1. Created for a Department Store: Rudolph was created in 1939 by Robert L. May for Montgomery Ward, a department store, as part of a Christmas promotion.

  2. Rudolph Almost Had a Different Name: May considered naming Rudolph "Rollo" or "Reginald" before settling on Rudolph.

  3. The Song Came Later: The famous song "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" was written by Johnny Marks, May's brother-in-law, in 1949, a decade after the character was created.

  4. Gene Autry Made the Song Famous: The song gained immense popularity when Gene Autry recorded it in 1949. It became a huge hit, eventually selling millions of copies.

  5. Rudolph Wasn't Part of Original Reindeer: In the original "A Visit from St.?Nicholas" (also known as "The Night Before Christmas"), Rudolph isn't mentioned. He was added to the reindeer team later.

  6. First Appeared in a Booklet: Rudolph first appeared in a booklet written by May and distributed by Montgomery Ward.

  7. A TV Special Popularized Rudolph Further: The 1964 stop-motion TV special "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" helped popularize Rudolph even more and has become a holiday staple.

  8. Rudolph's Red Nose is Scientifically Explained: Some scientists have explained that a reindeer's nose turning red in extreme cold could be due to the dense network of blood vessels in their noses, a theory often linked in fun to Rudolph's famous trait.

Rudolph's story of overcoming obstacles and his bright red nose has made him a symbol of Christmas and a character loved by generations.

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November 12, 2023

Taking Care of Cat

Simple Tips to Care for An Older Cat

Orange Tabby Cat

Here are a few tips for taking care of an older cat:

  1. Keep your cat's environment clean and comfortable. This includes keeping the litter box clean, providing plenty of water and food, and making sure your cat has a comfortable place to sleep.
  2. Keep your cat up-to-date on their vaccinations and preventive care. Regular visits to the vet can help catch any potential health problems early on, which can be easier and less expensive to treat.
  3. Keep your cat active. Older cats may not be as active as they were when they were younger, but they still need some form of physical activity to maintain their strength and mobility. Consider providing toys, scratching posts, and other ways for your cat to play and exercise.
  4. Provide your cat with a healthy diet. As cats age, their nutritional needs may change. Talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your older cat, and consider switching to a senior-specific formula if necessary.
  5. Keep your cat's teeth and gums healthy. Regular dental care is important for cats of all ages, but it's especially important for older cats, as they are more prone to dental problems. Make sure to brush your cat's teeth regularly, and consider getting professional dental cleanings from your veterinarian as needed.

By following these tips, you can help your older cat stay healthy and happy for as long as possible. If you have any concerns about your cat's health or well-being, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian for guidance.

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October 29, 2023

Mail Box Location

Know the Rules on the Mailbox

Mail Box Delivery

Having a mailbox on the street is an incredibly convenient way to send and receive mail. It allows people who don't have their own mailbox at home to still get their mail, as well as providing easy access for those who do. The location of a street-side mailbox can make all the difference in how accessible it is for everyone in the community.

When considering where to place a mailbox, there are several factors that should be taken into account.

  • First, safety should always be top priority; pick an area with good visibility so that people feel safe when they go out of their way to use it.
  • Second, convenience matters; choose somewhere close enough that most residents can easily reach it without having too far or difficult of a journey each time they need something from the post office or want to drop off some letters or packages themselves.
  • Finally, consider accessibility: if there are any elderly folks living nearby with mobility issues or families with small children then making sure they won?t struggle getting up and down steps could also be important!

Mail Box Location

How Far Away from the Curb?

According to the USPS mailbox regulations:

  • The mailbox should be placed 6 to 8 inches away from the curb or the edge of the road.
  • The bottom of the mailbox or the mail slot should be 41 to 45 inches from the ground.
  • The mailbox should also have your house or apartment number on it.

These guidelines help the mail carrier to deliver your mail safely and efficiently. I hope this answer helps you with your mailbox installation.

Overall

Overall having a dedicated space on your street for sending and receiving mail makes life much easier - especially during busy times like Christmas when you may have lots more parcels coming through than usual! With careful thought about placement you can ensure everyone has access no matter what age group or abilities - which will only help strengthen your local community even further!

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October 22, 2023

Apache HTTP Server Tips

Some Practical Tips I have Learned

Smark Guy Tips

Here are a few tips and tricks for working with the Apache HTTP Server:

To enable mod_rewrite for your Apache server, make sure the module is installed and then add the following line to your Apache configuration file (usually located at /etc/apache2/httpd.conf or /etc/httpd/conf/httpd.conf):


LoadModule rewrite_module modules/mod_rewrite.so

To enable .htaccess files, you will need to allow overrides in your Apache configuration. To do this, add the following line to your Apache configuration file:


AllowOverride All

To enable Gzip compression, add the following lines to your Apache configuration file:


LoadModule deflate_module modules/mod_deflate.so
AddOutputFilterByType DEFLATE text/html text/plain text/xml text/css text/javascript

To increase the maximum file upload size, you can modify the upload_max_filesize and post_max_size settings in your PHP configuration file (usually located at /etc/php5/apache2/php.ini or /etc/php/php.ini).

To redirect all HTTP traffic to HTTPS, add the following lines to your Apache configuration file:


RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{HTTPS} off
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}%{REQUEST_URI} [L,R=301]

To password protect a directory on your server, create a file named .htpasswd in the root directory of the protected directory and add a username and password to it. Then, add the following lines to your Apache configuration file:


AuthType Basic
AuthName "Restricted Area"
AuthUserFile /path/to/.htpasswd
Require valid-user

To improve performance, you can enable caching by adding the following lines to your Apache configuration file:


LoadModule expires_module modules/mod_expires.so
ExpiresActive On
ExpiresByType image/jpg "access plus 1 year"
ExpiresByType image/jpeg "access plus 1 year"
ExpiresByType image/gif "access plus 1 year"
ExpiresByType image/png "access plus 1 year"
ExpiresByType text/css "access plus 1 month"
ExpiresByType application/pdf "access plus 1 month"
ExpiresByType text/x-javascript "access plus 1 month"
ExpiresByType application/x-shockwave-flash "access plus 1 month"
ExpiresByType image/x-icon "access plus 1 year"
ExpiresDefault "access plus 2 days"

I hope these tips and tricks are helpful! If you have any further questions or need more guidance, don't hesitate to ask.

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July 30, 2023

Craftsman 675 Self-Propelled lawn mower.

Best Lawn Settings for Healthy Lawn

My personal lawn mower is a Craftsman 675 Self-Propelled lawn mower. This mower features a 190cc Briggs & Stratton Gold Series engine that delivers smooth and easy starting, as well as plenty of torque and speed. The mower also has a 22-inch high-performance deck that offers excellent bagging, mulching or discharging options. The self-propelled feature allows you to adjust the speed to your preference and terrain, while the front-wheel drive provides great maneuverability. The mower also has a dual-lever height adjustment that lets you choose from six different cutting heights, ranging from 1.25 to 3.75 inches. The mower has a large 2.3-bushel dust-blocker bag that reduces dust and debris.

Craftman Lawn Settings

I have used this lawn mower for a few years now, and I have spent some time trying to figure out which setting is the best to keep my lawn healthy and short. It is sometimes difficult to determine the line between having a short lawn and having a healthy lawn, as it can be a fine line to cross.

After much trial and error, it appears to be the 5/6 setting that produces the best results. It keeps the grass high enough so that the roots can build long to fight off weeds, but also produces a nice clean cut. This optimal setting also ensures that the lawnmower runs efficiently, avoiding excessive wear and tear. It also reduces the amount of time spent mowing, allowing for more time to be spent on other lawn care tasks.

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June 25, 2023

Adam-12 Crossover

Watch the Dragnet Crossover

Adam-12 and Dragnet were two of the most popular police procedurals of the 1960s, and they shared a common creator, Jack Webb. As a result, the two shows occasionally crossed over, with characters from one show appearing in the other. There were three crossovers between Adam-12 and Dragnet:

Adam12 Croosvoer

  • Internal Affairs: DR-20 (1968) - In this episode of Dragnet, Joe Friday and Bill Gannon investigate an accusation of police brutality. The main characters from Adam-12, Officers Pete Malloy and Jim Reed, appear as witnesses.
  • Personnel - The Shooting (1969) - In this episode of Dragnet, Joe Friday investigates a shooting that occurred at the police academy. Sergeant MacDonald from Adam-12 appears as a witness.
  • The Wedsworth-Townsend Act (1971) - In this episode of Adam-12, Officers Malloy and Reed investigate a robbery that was committed by a group of juveniles. Joe Friday appears as a consultant.

Watch the Crossover

Great Episodes

These crossovers were well-received by fans of both shows, and they helped to boost the ratings of both shows. They also helped to establish the shared universe of Jack Webb's police procedurals, which included Adam-12, Dragnet, and Emergency.

In addition to these three crossovers, there were also several other instances where characters from Adam-12 appeared in Dragnet, or vice versa. For example, in the Dragnet episode "The Big Brass Ring," Joe Friday mentions that he once worked with Officer Pete Malloy. And in the Adam-12 episode "The Big Payoff," Officers Malloy and Reed mention that they have met Joe Friday on several occasions.

These references helped to solidify the connection between the two shows, and they made the crossovers even more enjoyable for fans.

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May 14, 2023

Tools to Bring When Helping Someone Move

Make The Day Go Easy for Everyone

Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, both for the person who is moving and for those who are helping out. While many people focus on heavy lifting and packing, having the right tools can make the process much smoother and more efficient. Here are some essential tools to bring if you are helping someone move:

Moving Boxes2023

  • Long Philips Screwdriver - Often, furniture and other items need to be disassembled for transport, and a long Philips screwdriver can be a lifesaver in these situations. It's especially helpful for removing bed frames, bookshelves, and other large items.
  • Hex Key - Another tool that's useful for disassembling furniture is a hex key or Allen wrench. Many pieces of furniture, such as desks and chairs, are held together with bolts that require a hex key to remove.
  • Box Cutter - When it comes to packing and unpacking, a good box cutter is essential. It makes opening boxes a breeze and can also be used to break down boxes for recycling.
  • Wall Patch Kit - Moving can be tough on walls, with scuffs, dents, and holes often left behind. Bringing a wall patch kit can help repair any damage caused during the move, ensuring that the house or apartment is left in good condition.
  • Packing Tape with Box Labels - Labeling boxes is crucial to staying organized during a move, and packing tape with box labels makes the process quick and easy. You can label each box with its contents, room location, and any special instructions to make sure everything is in the right place at the new location.
  • Measuring Tape - Measuring tape is essential for determining whether large pieces of furniture will fit through doorways and hallways. It can also be helpful for measuring the dimensions of rooms and closets to determine where items will fit.
  • Hand Truck or Dolly - When moving heavy items, a hand truck or dolly can make the job much easier and safer. It can be used to move boxes, furniture, and other items without straining your back or risking injury.

In conclusion, bringing these essential tools can make the moving process much smoother and more efficient. Whether you're helping a friend move or doing it yourself, having the right tools can save time, prevent damage, and make the experience less stressful overall.

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