COLORADO RAINE

Shoes for a Sunday Drive

Raine Nordby — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 23:19:11 -0700

My Thanks to Lamborghini for thinking of us shoe crazy ladies.

COMING SOON!

Raine Nordby — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 13:54:17 -0700

Havn't been posting but that is soon to change. Coming your way!

BNI - benefits and adventures of a new group

Innovative Real Estate, a company with new vision

KURT REICH --- The musher south of the border

More Shoes fer fun!

Nobody told me about sea lice ---eewwww

A Peak at hazy days

What would be one of the most Offensive policies Obama and Congress could come up with???????

Raine Nordby — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 01:37:07 -0700

Thank you, Alice Linahan, for this blog.

Via Alice Linahan (Keller Williams):

What would be one of the most offensive policies the Obama Administraion and this Congress could come up with. As someone who truly loves America and our Military I am appalled.

Well here it is.......

Insulting Veterans and looking like cheapskates in a time when massive government outlays to private industry would certainly help it along. Comes now Hero of the Anti-War Left, retired General Eric Shinseki, who wants to save a few bucks at the Veterans Administration by making men and women injured in the service of our country pay for their care:

Last week I wrote a post about a Veteran named Snakeye who I found out about in a really cool way. Here is a link to that post. I have an amazing story to share with you and I need your help. The 12th Medallion is calling!

In an exchange between Snakeye and myself I told him that because America has an incredible military with men and women like himself that fight the outside threats of evil people and regimes, I have always felt safe. But I believe we are being threatened from within our own boarders by corrupt politicians and evil forces that have paid for positions and power. I want to challenge all to do a little research on who some of these leaders are and what their agenda is. What do we really know about Obama except that in his first two months he has shown to be the true very far left liberal that we thought he was. He has deceived and lied to the American people.

Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki confirmed Tuesday that the Obama administration is considering a controversial plan to make veterans pay for treatment of service-related injuries with private insurance. ...

Let's see. The same administration that wants to give tens of billions of dollars to GM, Citigroup, AIG, and a host of other banks and manufacturers wants men and women injured in service to their country to pay for the medical care that arises from these injuries?

As Ed Morrissey states in his blog, "people used to complain that Bush didn't care enough about veteran care - even though he increased the VA budget by 56% from 2001 to 2008. Bush never offered the notion that the nation should shirk its duty to those who gave their health for the defense of America, especially not in the same week in which his administration signed a record omnibus bill with 8,000 pork items in it. In fact, I don't think any administration has ever signaled such a policy, mostly because previous administrations weren't dumb enough to try it, let alone crass enough to consider it an area to save a little cash."

I told Snakeye how much I appreciate what he had done to protect my family by his service to our great country. Now it is my turn to protect his.

Like I said in my post yesterday it is time for Common Men and Women to take an Uncommon stand and speak out about these offenses and make sure our Congress and President know we will not stand for this kind of insult on America and our amazing military anymore.

Frosty the Deer

Raine Nordby — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 19:29:34 -0700

I took these pictures 2 days ago. I was leaving to drop my son at school and go to work. Jake pointed out to me that the deer were covered in snow. Luckily, I've learned to carry a camera at ALL times and was able to capture these images. We've lived at our home almost 4 years and I have never seen them just waking up and snow covered. It was a treat. Jake and I thought it was funny....plus the bird came in for a morning snack :)

Join me on Twitter and LinkedIN, perfectin' connectin'

It's a balmy 20 Farenheit and the Mushers are worried....

Raine Nordby — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 07:19:55 -0700

...their teams will get tired.

Ahead of the pack is Aaron Burnmeister. He's a surprise to most. Running since he was 19, now 31, he is an unexpected leader. The trail is soft and slow and the year the pace is slower. Check out all the Mushers here....http://www.adn.com/photos/iditarod/story/703829.html?bib=56

Aaron Burmeister

Takotna (Ta-COT-na)

03/11
02:44:00

3h 1m

McGrath

03/10
23:43:00

5.97

Hugh Neff

Takotna (Ta-COT-na)

03/11
03:03:00

3h 5m

McGrath

03/10
23:58:00

Sebastian Schnuelle

Takotna (Ta-COT-na)

03/11
03:14:00

2h 58m

McGrath

03/11
00:16:00

KURT REIGH is currenty at position 62

Checkpoint: Rohn (Rone)

Time In: Tue, March 10, 2009 23:06:00
Dogs In: 13

Time Out: Tue, March 10, 2009 23:06:00

The unusually warm weather - temperatures were above 20 degrees Tuesday afternoon - also was hard on the dogs, which prefer to run in colder weather. Aliy Zirkle, a former Quest winner who was 10th into Nikolai, said her dogs had lost their appetite in the warm weather. They weren't eating well, a serious concern for any musher who expects their team to perform over the long haul. ****HEY THERE COLORADOANS.....I think Kurt has the advantage here....his team is trained in warm weather AND altitude *****GO KURT****

The winner will receive $69,000 and a new pickup truck and should arrive in Nome sometime next week

( I think these guys shold get a bit more for a 10 to 17 day race ****personal opinion!!)

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5g3T59XZ0F9Sguh4zNxXoJ7CXqnVAD96RI968

http://www.iditarod.com/race/musherlisting.html

Look for more updates here in Colorado Rain!

Join me on Twitter and LinkedIN, perfectin' connectin'

Shoeless Sunday.....I don't think so

Raine Nordby — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 07:03:08 -0700

I love this pair. I have a suit with leopard trim piping that looks great with these. I use a black patent bag.

Who owns this shoe closet?

A. Miriah Carrie

B. Boy George

C. Madonna

ANSWER: Follow me on twitter to find the answer :)

Last GREAT Race on Earth.starts tomorrow! Ready, set, MUSH!

Raine Nordby — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 10:43:53 -0800

It has been called the "Last Great Race on Earth"

2009 Iditarod International Sled Dog Race in Anchorage, Alaska starts tomorrow. The race, which is also known as the "toughest race on earth," is an 1150 mile race that passes through five climate zones. The first race was held in 1973. The race spans beautiful Alaska. The mushers take the old Iditarod trade route that was used during the height of the gold rush in Alaska (mail and supplies went in and gold came out) and then the trail was forgotten when airplanes became the most popular method of transport. In 1925, part of the Iditarod Trail became a life saving highway for epidemic-stricken Nome. Diphtheria threatened and serum had to be brought in; again by intrepid dog mushers and their faithful hard-driving dogs. Now the Iditarod is a National Historic Trail.

Iditarod is the Ingalik word for hidehod or clearwater. It takes 10 to 17 days from start to finish using a team of 12 to 16 dogs. There is a Northern and Southern route that are alternated each year to minimize environmental inpact. Y

You can watch a replay of last years race on Iditarod Tracker http://race.ionearth.com/2008_iditarod_replay/

2009 Iditarod Musher Listing: Last night, at the Musher Banquet, the starting numbers were drawn from an Ingalik boot

2	Peck	Aaron	M	Grande Prairie	AB	CANADA	Veteran
3	Yoshida	Nancy	F	Thompson	ND	USA	Rookie
4	Iten	Ed	M	Kotzebue	AK	USA	Veteran
5	Larson	Rick	M	Sand Coulee	Montana	USA	Veteran
6	Moore	Allen	M	Two Rivers	AK	USA	Veteran
7	Palfrey	Warren	M	Yellowknife	NWT	CANADA	Veteran
8	Swenson	Rick	M	Two Rivers	AK	USA	Veteran
9	Matray	Blake	M	Two Rivers	AK	USA	Rookie
10	Redington Jr	Ray	M	Wasilla	AK	USA	Veteran

Did you know???

We have our very own musher from Colorado? Yes! Kurt Reigh, as retired engineer, trains his team up in Divide Colorado. He raises Alaskan Huskies and devotes most of his energies to raising his two children AND raising money for children's charities.

Reich

Kurt

Divide

USA

Rookie

Kurt Reigh is raising money for children, coordinated wtih Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs. www.iditarodforcharities.ORG

Doggie Care --- we LOVE HUSKIES !! Most teams have Handlers. These folks take care of the dogs and help the musher before the race. They cannot interfere during the race. The Iditarod is possible due the mostly volunteers from Ancorage and surrounding towns.

About the Photographer

Jeff Schultz has been photographing in Alaska since 1978 and has been the Iditarod Trail Committee's official volunteer photographer since 1982. Jeff says that his God-given talent for photography has resulted in his images being published worldwide in books, magazines and advertisements. Jeff owns and operates Alaska's largest stock photo agency, Alaska Stock Images, which represents more than 100 photographers.

COMING SOON! I will be interviewing Kurt Reich.

Watch for that exciting blog later this spring!

So How Much Time to You Spend Buffling?

Raine Nordby — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 10:18:25 -0800

I like this one. Liz gave me an idea for another post. Thanks Liz!

Via Liz Moras- Team Leader & Managing Broker Keller Williams Valley Realty (Serving Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Langley & Fraser Valley):

How do you try to impress others? Although most of the phrases do not say anything important or useful, 20 per cent of people still believe that "buffling" - as the pollsters call it - has had or would have a positive impact on their career.

Urban Dictionairies definition...."A contraction of the words "Business" and Waffling." def: To incessantly use office jargon, such as 'thinking outside the box', in a non-work setting.

The top 20 "buffling" business terms:

1) Thinking outside of the box

2) Touch base

3) At the end of the day

4) Going forward

5) All of it

6) Blue sky thinking

7) Out of the box

8) Credit crunch

9) Heads up

10) Singing from the same hymn sheet

11) Pro-active

12) Downsizing

13) Ducks in a row

14) Brainstorming

15) Thought shower

16) 360º thinking

17) Flag it up

18) Pushing the envelope

19) At this moment in time

20) In the loop

Annoying or helpful what do you think? :-)





                                     If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Langley or anywhere in the Fraser Valley Area of B.C. - or if you're considering a career in Real Estate or would like more information about Keller Williams please give Liz  Moras a call! Managing Broker and Team Leader - 604-799-0459 or e-mail at lizmoras@shaw.ca.

We need to stop listening to the rest, and Start believing in ourselves again!

Raine Nordby — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 02:20:02 -0800

No it's not Flag Day or the Fourth of July. I don't need a special day to love my country. I love America every day.

This is no surprise, the majority of the statistical information I have read concerning US foreign aid has been negative reviews. If I Google stats on American Foreign Aid, a whole slue of charts and information comes up. In all of this, we are listed at the bottom of the stats. Surprise, surprise says Gomer.

Despite the fact that we are the largest contributor of aid in the world, it is said that it is NOT enough. Because our economy is so large when compared to the per capita donation of say Belgium, they out strip our donations. They give more. Wow. What a slap. To top that one off, it is claimed that our private charity and donations are grossly exaggerated. Well I'll be. I personally know 3 people who travel each year to foreign lands, using their own cash, to help those in need. Now if little 'ol me can say I know THREE people myself, how much private charity is never counted or added in these statistics? How much goes unnoticed and unappreciated? How many thousands of missionaries, good Samaritans and selfless individuals have these statisticians MISSED? I would venture to say most. They certainly missed the 3 people I know.

I tell you, from what I watch and read, American Bashing continues to be a favorite world pastime. It sure would be nice to have a few more Gordon Sinclair's in this world. But since there are not more Gordon's, I guess we need to get up, dust off and again do what we do best. Work hard and give much.

Let's stop listening to the naysayers and fear mongers. There are always 100 people who'll tell you, you can't. There are 100 countries lined up to tell us what we aren't.

I say, We Can, and We Are, and Will always Be a great, giving and prosperous nation.

God Bless the U.S.A.

http://www.peacecorps.gov/

Don't Be Scared.....

Raine Nordby — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 23:56:20 -0800

Out with the negative and IN with the positive. I really like Williams post "Don't be scared"

To add some thoughts of mine

Turn off the TV and all its negativity. Go hug your family, talk to your neighbors and friends. Shake off the cloud of gloom and doom. It's going to be ok!

Via William James Walton, Sr. (Century21 Access America):

You know, between all of the reports coming out about how much more negative the economy's going to get, and the conservative base basically disregarding and discrediting every aspect of Obama's stimulus and budget plans, one can't help but feel pessimistic about the direction that the country is headed.

I say, don't be scared.

For buyers who are still unsure of whether now is the right time to buy, who are really afraid of taking a chance at investing in their future, now is NOT the time to be timid. Now is NOT the time to procrastinate. NOW is the time for bold, decisive action, action that will reap multiple rewards for you.

I say, don't be scared.

For every seller who has been spooked into not listing their home, who may be stuck where you are instead to moving up to where you really want to be, you will be the other half of the equation that will pull this country out of its doldrums.

I say, don't be scared.

For agents who don't know how to respond to clients and customers about all of the news of gloom and doom, for those who are expecting this year to worse than the last, for those who are ready to throw in the towel and quit, for those who have given way to fear - realize that you are indeed the real hope of this country's economic turnaround - but only if you make yourselves available for it, only if you have the fortitude it takes to stick it out in times like these.

I say, don't be scared.

Tough times have always been a part of our experience as human beings. Economic ups and downs are a natural part of life - they come with the type of economic system we operate under. We haven't seen things as bad as they were back in the 1930's at the height of the Great Depression, as those who lived through that time can easily attest. One thing is definitely certain: as one of my favorite gospel songs says "I'm so glad...trouble don't last always".

So if you are approaching these next few months with fear and trepidation, if your plans for life are now in disarray because of the economic bad news, I say...

DON'T BE SCARED!

REO,Central Colorado Springs,CO..Handyman Special..it ain't the Ritz but it can be a Home Sweet Home

Raine Nordby — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 23:32:45 -0800

***This property needs work!***HANDYMAN SPECIAL*** Ready to move this property. Contact me, let's get an offer in today! 3105 N Prospect ST Colorado Springs, CO 80907 List Price: $91,900 Sub Area: Virginia Homes Lot: 0.172 acre Br: 4 Bth: 2 Gar: 0 Finished SQ FT: 1020 Total SQ FT: 1643 Assoc Dues: $0

Funny story for Friday

Raine Nordby — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:03:53 -0800

Recently I posted about the wonderful birdies that wake me in the morning. It lead me to think of all the wildlife that is in my "neck of the woods". Most of the animals I see all the time, but the first summer that we spent at our home in Mountain Shadows we saw a pack of 10 raccoons. Let me tell you the story.

Everett and I were sitting out on the patio eating our dinner. We were so excited to enjoy our serene hillside and trees; we were eating outside almost every night (the kids were at Grandmas). We bought this house with a lovely water feature. That was burbling and the crickets were chirping in the dusk. Without any sound, around the corner of the house appears a line of raccoons. It was comical because the smaller ones trotted by us first and then they got larger and larger. These raccoons were about three feet away from us. We were sitting in silence because we were both so surprised. At this point those little rascals hadn't seen us yet. They filed over to our fountain and started to drink. About the time the 7th one came around the corner, I said to Everett, "You don't think that raccoons attack people do you?" He said he didn't know. Then Papa Raccoon, the last of them, saw us. He was huge! He stopped right in front of us, arched his back, hair on end, and growled a weird snort bark. I'm not sure but I think I was in the house before Everett but we both had the same thought....10 angry,snorting, barking raccoons jumping us. Not so cute anymore.

Behind the safety of the screen we watched as they all scurried up the hill in the dusk, each disappearing into the tall grasses.

We have never seen them again. I guess we scared them. LOL

I found an article about racoons currently roaming around the White House like a pack of cute fuzzy bandits. The National Park Service spots them around the property but have not yet apprehended the critters. They hope to take care of the problem before the President and his family choose a new dog. That might lead to a problem on the White House front lawn. http://brighthall.aol.com/2009/02/08/raccoons-vs-obama/

Hey Kids, are you SMART on safety?

Raine Nordby — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:21:42 -0800

S Stay away from strangers!

M Make sure you ask permission before you so somewhere

A Always tell an adult you know where you are going

R Remember your code word

T Take a friend whenever you can

To Parents and the Village that cares. Please watch out for your children. Listen to them. You will

find out more about their thoughts, their friends and their fears, if you listen. Talk often about safety.

Give your children hugs and complements. Children can never be loved too much. Please take the

time to read information about child safety, you can never learn too much.

by and from a loving Parent, just like you.

Raine Nordby

http://www.amberalert.gov/

http://www.microsoft.com/protect/family/guidelines/default.mspx

http://www.missingkids.com/

http://www.familywatchdog.us/

http://www.sproutonline.com/sprout/originals/firesafety.aspx (this is a great site for kids to learn about fire safety)

http://www.aap.org/family/Carseatguide.htm

Mace,Knee Breaks and 911.... "No please, after you Mr...

Raine Nordby — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 03:40:41 -0800

I was sad to open up my local PPAR page yesterday to read that a local Realtor had been attacked. This is following a recent blog on the safety of our city compared to others of similar population. It shows that even if your city is safe, it only takes one criminal to make one too many.

As far a Realtor safety, from what I've read, we let our guard down and ignore our instincts. Of course, there is a class to teach us basic safety when we get our licence, but we tend to forget the important safeguards taught in class.

The realty office in my area reported that the customer even met this Realtor at her office, but from there she let her guard down.

“He came to the office and picked up our agent

in his grey SUV. He is tall, dark hair, and he is his

30s. He convinced the member to stop for lunch.

It was there that he slipped her a drug and the rest

of the story is not good. She ended up in the

hospital for tests.”

Top advice from Realtor Safety 911

Listen to your gut. If you have a bad feeling, or notice something

is just not quite right act on that instinct. Change the plan,

cancel, don’t ignore that “back of the neck tingle” you feel.

Carry a protective weapon. Preferably mace.

For more information read Realtor Safety 911….you should read it top to bottom.

Spring is near and there's a jackhammer on my chimney

Raine Nordby — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 23:57:07 -0800

Nature is amazing but I didn’t think that it could be so loud.

We’ve all seen the funny commercials where the person is sleeping and through the open windows comes the cacophony of the morning bird calls. Well I would love to have that problem. Right around this time all the way through spring and in fall we have the biggest woodpeckers attack our siding. Their favorite place? Yes, the chimney. The echo of their fevered hole drilling beaks crashes into my dreams about 5:30 am in the predawn morning. As soon as there is a thread of light those industrious creatures go to work. These guys are personal friends of Woody Woodpecker and they have a pattern. Laugh, drill, laugh, drill, laugh, drill…..you get the idea.

A couple of seasons ago we (meaning my husband) risked our necks to tie a fake owl to the roof area. They are so big and tough they would just land next to the thing …..laugh, laugh, laugh. You are supposed to move the thing around but my hubby doesn’t care for the latest in neck brace fashion. So now we just put more tin where the holes appear. Soon we won’t have to worry. We’ll just have a tin roof , complemented by “Swiss cheese siding.”

Fit, Fun and Healthy city! Come live in Colorado Springs. We walk and we run just for fun!

Raine Nordby — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 09:32:53 -0800

Colorado Springs has been named the second best walking city in America by USA Today. Criteria included various walking-friendly attributes such as low crime rates, mild year-round temperatures, the number of cultural attractions, participation in recreational sports, and pet ownership. The overall survey included more than 18,000 topics of information about the top 100 cities from sources including the Census Bureau, other government agencies, and market research surveys.

2008, we ranked 5th in the nation as best city to live in for work, lifestyle and quality. With gas prices walking to work increased 7% in 2008. In Denver they have an ambitious transit-oriented plan to increase public transportation use to 25% in the next 2 decades. Colorado Springs is sure to follow.

On top of all this great information we are NUMBER 1 as the skinniest city. Because of the myriad of available activities we boast the lowest percentage of adult obesity in the country.

Epic Monarch Crest Trail

Epic is the only word for it. The Monarch Crest Trail is considered the premier mountain bike ride in the entire 14ers Region. It may be one of the top five rides in the United States. The trail covers roughly 40 miles of tundra-like terrain, across talus fields, through old-growth forests and high plains desert.

This ride is one not to be missed. Accending from 6,000 feet you'll top out at about 11,960 feet. The first part of the trail is fairly easy but later is becomes a technical challenge with some large scree fields, switchbacks, and some rough sections of trail. An awesome ride, do it if you get the chance but watch for thunderstorms and be prepared for a long day. As with all things Colorado...layers,layers,layers (we already have location maxed :)

Climbing the GoG

The name Garden of the Gods dates back to August 1859 when two surveyors helping to set up nearby Colorado City were exploring the nearby areas. Upon discovering the site, one of the surveyors, M. S. Beach, suggested that it would be a "capital place for a beer garden." His companion, the young Rufus Cable, awestruck by the impressive rock formations, exclaimed, "Beer Garden! Why it is a fit place for the gods to assemble. We will call it the Garden of the Gods." The park is a favorite place for many locals in Colorado Springs. Hiking, biking, church services and weddings all happen among the beautiful rock formations. One of the favorites is to mountain climb. An annual permit is required. A cautionary tale, many try rock scrambling. That is climbing without a permit or safety equipment. More than a few have fallen to their death.

Red Rocks Canyon Loop

This is a super trail for the family. A little over 2 miles, you can take all the kids and the dog too. What is amazing is this scenery is right in town. It is also a great hike for your out of town visitors. Colorado Springs sits at over 6,000 ft. Some visitors find they are not ready for the altitiude change. They become winded very easily. It can take some people months to adjust to living way up here. This hike gives your guest beautiful views without more altitude.

Come live here in Colorado Spirngs. Colorado Springs, does the heart good!

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/weightloss/2009-01-13-fit-fat-cities_N.htm

http://www.prevention.com/cda/article/100-best-walking-cities/1ba0d08f88803110VgnVCM20000012281eac____/fitness/walking/getting.started

http://www.kiplinger.com/features/archives/2008/05/2008-best-cities-Colorado-Springs.html

http://www.fitsugar.com/1038353

14 years with my man

Raine Nordby — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:02 -0800

love is sooo many words expressed in so many ways - by 2BE on Polyvore.com

Ok folks. I know that its after Valentines day but today is really when my heart goes pitter patter. Today marks 14 years since I met my wonderful husband. So Valentines is nice but today is all roses for me. I am blessed to have such a great guy! MY MAN!

Events
February 19
1856 - The tintype photographic process was patented by Professor Hamilton L. Smith of Gambier, OH.

1955 - Dot Records launched Two Hearts, Two Kisses, One Love, the first single by Pat Boone.

1985 - Cherry Coke was introduced by the Coca-Cola Company, not at company headquarters in Atlanta, but in New York City, instead. Many who grew up in the 1950s rushed to buy the canned and/or bottled taste of nostalgia; hoping it would taste the same as they remembered ... when they sat at the corner drug store's soda fountain and ordered, "A Cherry Coke, please

Colorado Springs, Big Town......small crime rate

Raine Nordby — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 05:26:33 -0800

One of the hundred reasons I love Colorado Springs.

Statistics show that Colorado Springs has 50% lower violent crime rate than other cities of comparative population. In other crime we are 22% lower in comparison. Pedestrians have a 76 percent lower than average risk of being killed by a motor vehicle here-among the safest in surveys. This is very good informaion since we are one of the fittest states we have a plethera of people jogging, biking, walking, running, horseback riding...ok I'll stop (more on that later)

The Colorado Springs Police Department is continually working to improve their service to community. Last fall a new DNA Facility began to process locally. This will drastically reduce the turnaround time for results on forensic DNA evidence.

As we move forward, the CSPD continues to work toward improvement. Recently some initiatives failed during the November 2008 election. We will see how funding will affect our averages. With that said, we still have a high quality of life and offer the best of both worlds. A big city feel with small town problems.

This Chart shows the rate of occurrence of Part 1 Index Crimes occurring per 1,000 persons in Colorado Springs, Fountain, unincorporated El Paso County and the United States (U.S.).

What Does It Mean? Part 1 Index Crimes include: murder, sexual assault, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, and auto theft. The U.S. rate is for cities of similar size to Colorado Springs (200,000 to 530,000 residents) and allows us to compare ourselves to a national average.

Why is this Important? Tracking trends in modes of travel will help to plan improvements for existing systems to make them more accessible to all segments of the population in an effective manner.

How are we Doing? In 2006, the index crime rate in Colorado Springs was 51.4, below the national average.

Potential for Action In 2008, Citizens for Effective Government, a group of civic leaders, organized the Safer Community Initiative to encourage support for adequate levels of funding for public safety, including law enforcement and crime prevention. NOTE: This initiative failed during the November 2008 election.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sTuo5zaGyg

http://www.springsgov.com/units/police/miscDocs/2008FastFacts.pdf

http://www.fitpregnancy.com/bestcities2008/118

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sTuo5zaGyg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzYBFz5FREU (this link is just for fun)

Honor our President's Day

Raine Nordby — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 02:09:16 -0800

ABRAHAM LINCOLN (1861-1865)

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States. At 6 feet 4 inches, he was the tallest president. Lincoln was also the first president to wear a beard. During the Civil War (1860-64), Lincoln made frequent visits to the Soldiers Home each summer. Once he piled his son Tad and two pet goats into a carriage. A shocked presidential aide politely suggested that the goats should not ride in the carriage with the president and his son. Lincoln answered, "Why not? There's plenty of room in here." So the goats stayed, and the aide was left behind.

Thomas Jefferson (1801-1809)

After a long ride to Baltimore, when he was John Adams's vice president, Thomas Jefferson entered a hotel where a room had been reserved for him. The hotel owner, whose name was Boydon, had never met Jefferson. He looked over the dust-covered newcomer carefully. Convinced the man was just a farmer, Boydon said, "We have no room for you, sir." Jefferson again asked for a room and was again told no by Boydon. The vice president left and went a couple of blocks to another hotel. Upon hearing that he had just turned away the vice president of the United States, Boydon sent a man after Jefferson to deeply apologize and bring him back. But Jefferson told the messenger, "Tell him I have engaged a room. Tell Mr. Boydon that I value his good intentions highly, but if he has no room for a dirty farmer, he has none for the vice president."

President William Taft Started the tradition of the Presidential “ first pitch ” of baseball season.

The event took place on April 4th 1910, during an opening game between the

Washington Senators and the Philadelphia Athletics.

Since President Taft’s first pitch, every President but one has opened

at least one baseball season during their tenure.

Who can guess the one President who did not open a baseball season.?

Woodrow Wilson (1913-1921)

One of our presidents, Woodrow Wilson, has his picture on paper currency that is rarely, if ever, seen--the $100,000 bill. The large denomination notes have not been printed for many years and are used exclusively by a few banks as money exchanges.

James Garfield (1881)

In the fall of 1849, Garfield, aged 17, was asked to replace a schoolmaster in Solon, Ohio. But Garfield faced a problem. Some toughs had driven away the last two teachers, and two of the ringleaders were bigger than Garfield. On his first day of teaching, Garfield was hit on the head with a block of wood. Instead of leaving, Garfield had a fist-fight with his assailant, beating him soundly and throwing him out the door. The next day, Garfield entered the classroom with a bullwhip. "I'll use this if I have to," he announced. But his point had been made; Garfield never had to use the whip.

TRIVIA ANSWER: Jimmy Carter

Women for Women, a hero in my own backyard

Raine Nordby — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 03:29:44 -0800

There are a hundred reasons why I live in Colorado Springs. One reason is a fabulous woman I know. Her name is Becky Kiser, and she is a hero.

Becky is a Mary Kay sales director and savior of hundreds of women. She founded Women for Women a non profit organization that works to correct the social agony and pain of the condition called Fistula. Becky has been honored nationally and internationally for her work. She works tirelessly, using her own funds, and risking her very life to help these many women. Please take some time and view the video. If you are interested in donating or becoming involved with Women for Women and The Trampled Rose Shelter, please visit their site http://trampledrose.org/

http://www.aboutsweep.org/applause2page.pdf

http://www.womensenews.org/article.cfm/dyn/aid/3420

http://www.csindy.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A33428

What Business Are You In?

Raine Nordby — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 14:46:32 -0800

I really like this one!

Via Mike Manns Jackson Madison Co Home Inspector (B4 U Close Home Inspections):

I came across this story shared by the direct response marketing master, Don Jackson the other day and I wanted to share it with you. There is an important lesson in here for us as marketers!

Next time someone asks you what business you are in, try responding this way:

"I'm in the business of acquiring customers and then continually delighting them."

Now here's the story Don told to support the statement listed above.

"A friend of mine bought a Lexus - a $45,000 piece of machinery. He could afford a Mercedes, a Jaguar, a Cadillac, but he went with the Lexus. His lifetime value to that automobile manufacturer could be in the high six figures.

My friend took delivery of his elegant new Lexus from the dealer and started to drive it home, luxuriating in the smell of the leather interior and the glorious handling qualities. On a whim, he turned on the radio. His favorite classical music station came on loud and clear in splendid quadraphonic sound. He pushed the second button; it was his favorite news-weather-traffic station. The third button was the talk radio station he listened to to keep awake on long trips. In fact, every button was set to his specific tastes.

Was the Lexus psychic? No. The mechanic at the Lexus dealership had noted the radio settings on the old trade in and duplicated them on the new Lexus. My friend was, in a word delighted.

Remember what this technician did for my friend cost Lexus nothing. Zip. Nada. Not one cent. Yet it solidified the relationship. Over the coming years, Lexus will have to screw up big time to negate that divine moment

What do Kinder Eggs and FDR have in common?

Raine Nordby — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 03:08:23 -0800

What do Kinder Eggs and FDR have in common?

S-M-A-R-T: Safe, Monitored, Agriculture, Rx and Toiletries

Ok my friends let me preface this blog by saying that my opinions below are not an attack on the author of this blog. This author’s opinion was simply the last straw for me. I have to just let you know where I stand. I know that this blog was in jest, must have been, but a ban on a candy does not make our kids stupid. I’m TIRED OF AMERICAN BASHING.

http://activerain.com/blogsview/924616/Are-american-kids-dumber-than-other-kids

So why is the world wide sensation of the Kinder Egg banned in our great states of America? It all goes back to 1938. President Roosevelt pushed through the 1938 Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. This Act was to prevent the snake oil salesmen of the day from swindling grandma out of her savings to buy watered down turpentine elixir ( 2 teaspoons a day and ALL your troubles pass away) So this Macro legislation did great good to save lives and monies. Of course, as with most laws it can become outdated or incongruent when filtered down to the Micro Kinder Egg level.

http://www.fda.gov/oc/history/historyoffda/section2.html

Why did this small fact spark my stepping up on my “egg carton” to speak my peace? Simply put, I’ll forego the Kinder Egg for the fact that we have healthy and safe food and consumer products. I don’t think that makes us stupid, but rather indicates that we care very much for our citizens. Whether we have the safest food is up for debate, especially between those who believe in organics vs. those who use pesticide. It is a fact that we produce more food than any other country and we give the largest amount in food relief to other countries. THIS MAY be changing … http://www.marketoracle.co.uk/Article8768.html . Also Please read this blog by Terry Chenier http://activerain.com/blogsview/923878/Horribly-Boring-Article-but-ALARMING

So I guess if our prodigy does not get chocolaty Kinder Eggs with treats inside, this isn’t so bad. Oh and funny enough. Germany is considering banning Kinder Eggs and making their kids wear helmets …. How stupid….

http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5hL3Hz58ZKetLn4acwNi65BmlEQ-w

http://www.ifad.org/media/press/advisory/2008/07.htm

http://www.america.gov/st/peacesec-english/2008/April/20080415104029dmslahrellek0.5003321.html

http://barfblog.foodsafety.ksu.edu/2008/04/articles/safest-food-in-the-world/which-country-has-the-safest-food-in-the-world-no-one-knows/

http://www.rmfu.org/2007/06/19/the-safest-food-in-the-world/

http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/tomatoes.html#intro

S-M-A-R-T: Safe, Monitored, Agriculture Rx and Toiletries

I thought that up… I think I’m pretty smart

Coloradoans Like to Cruise in Libraries, Not Cars

Raine Nordby — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 12:51:39 -0800

While education costs skyrocket we have still found a way to educate ourselves. You would think that the internet would be the great meeting hall for thirsty minds. But, its not the only place. Despite the explosion of the internet age the old fashioned book is still popular. So much so that 68% of all Americans have a library card and the number is increasing.

Here in Colorado the averages are even higher. In the top 10 of the "smartest" cities in the U.S., Colorado has two, Boulder and Fort Collins. According to U.S. government census projections the population in Colorado is about 5 million, compared to states like New York, 20 million, and California, 36 Million. By comparision of population that would indicate that Coloradoans are super SMART (Start Making A Reader Today)

In tough economic times, everyone looks to stretch a dollar. Libraries are a great resource. It's FREE to you and me. Very few other countries offer such a resource to their citizens. If you haven't been to the library lately, take some time and cruise the bookshelves.

http://harvester.census.gov/imls/compare/ReportComparisonGroup.asp

Institute of Museum and Library Services
Data from Public Libraries Survey Fiscal Year: 2006
The file contains (17) records based on your search.

IMLS is not responsible for the manner in which these data are presented. These data are provided as an extra service to the user. To download full Public Libraries datasets, please go to the Public Libraries homepage. http://nces.ed.gov/surveys/libraries/Public.asp
Library Name	Number of Public Internet Terminals	Library Visits per Capita	Library Visits
Comparison Group Average	109	6.11	965,641
State Average (CO)	29	8.91	245,080
National Average	22	6.02	155,972
Comparison Group Median	27	6.07	217,292
State Median (CO)	10	6.58	42,126
National Median	7	4.66	30,992

Taxes are stimulating?

Raine Nordby — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 01:50:49 -0800

I was just reading Why Colorado Assessors are going to need TUMS by Mary Douglas. Her blog on property tax assessments made me think of tax time, which made me think of money and then of course what I wouldn't be getting back. Remember those economic stimulus checks mailed out last year. What many people didn't and still don't understand is that the money was actually and advance on your tax return. But I did a bit of research and incase you haven't already found out there is actually a "recovery rebate credit" if your financial circumstances have changed dramatically since 2007. So, if that was the case for you in 2008 you should qualify for this credit when you file this year. Ask your tax adviser if you qualify.

http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2009/01/02/filing-your-2008-taxes-with-the-economic-stimulus-recovery-rebate-credit/

Powerful Paper

Raine Nordby — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 03:06:42 -0800

I have been reading an array of blogs. Many of them about the power of Internet networking. Some about our new fascination with texting, blogging and video blogging. So we have moved to more remote spaces yet we are infinently connected with Blackberrys, Bluetooth and (who doesn't love) Google. If one is extremely enviroconscious, this wireless world is heaven.

For me I like and long for the smell of paper. Just like that elusive new car smell. Good paper is hard to find these days. Good money, good contracts, good notice are elusive.

So I find myself shopping for personal notecards now. I like to go myself. I don't order online. I want to see the paper, feel it between my fingers, make sure it has a bit of weight to it. I bring home my finds and look forward to getting the cards out and writing my thoughts on them. Amazingly, the more notes I write the more I recieve. So don't worry my friends, good paper will make a come back. Just like vinyl. GenXYers hunt down that vinyl now like a rare Dahli http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2009/01/27/arts/EU-Britain-Dali-Image.php

P.S. When my son was five years old he received a lovely birthday card from Grandma and Grandpa. It was waiting for him on the kitchen table along with his breakfast.

When he opened the card there were five VERY crisp, new dollar bills. His smile shined like the cheshire cat. Carefully he laid each one in a row in front of him. He took his time, feeling each bill and looking at it. Then with relish he took each bill in his hand, put the greenback to his nose and took a big snif (like the money was a glass of wine ---- he did seem a bit drunk with his new monotary power). Then he said something I will never forget......

" Ahhhhhhh, the smell of fresh money in the morning."

True Story! --- Capitalizm is alive and kicking my friends, have no fear