Great Commercial Building with 7 condos and indoor parking garage for condo's 2 half baths in parking garage. A Great Monthly income already in place, Newly Remodeled with the best opportunity for growth of any piece of commercial property in Butte, Montana. First Floor has also has two great retail spaces. The main retail space is 4,000 square feet with kitchen area in. This space would make a great internet cafe, which Butte has non downtown. You could also have live music or open mic on the weekends. There is a back room that could be used for meetings or private events and a great office space with an antique built in safe. On the west side of the building is a great 750 square foot retail space, that would make a great shop of any kind. This building is one block off of main street, which makes it a great location for just about any type of business. The second floor has 7 completed condos, all currently producing income. There are four units whit three bedrooms and 2 full baths. These units are (1,400 to 1,535 square feet each) Two units has two bedrooms and one full bath. These units are (960 to 1000 square feet each) One unit has two bedrooms and two full bathes. This unit is 1,168 square feet. The indoor parking garage has spaces for 11 autos, two half baths in it, storage space, automatic garage door opener and exhaust system for auto emissions. This building is 20,400 square feet, 10,200 square feet per floor. Heat is natural gas and electric. Wiring is commercial specifications. Entire building has automatic sprinkling system for fire control and smoke alarms wired in. For more information please contact

tom@befirstinc.com

or phone 303 956 0569

Is there any possible way to combine fun and entertainment with fly-fishing, sports, hiking, and history, framed by the most beautiful wildlife and scenery you`ve ever seen in your life?  Yes, as a matter of fact there is, and Yellowstone Inn gives you this package of sheer perfection so that you and your family get peace, serenity, and a whole lot of fun.  

Over the nest few weeks we`re going to be talking aboutYellowstone Inn.  Why?  I know "you`re going to say there are other good hotels, so why this one? Readers, I can not stress enough the fact thatYellowstone Inn is the actual Mecca of beauty in the United States (and, quite possibly, the rest of the world).  There is no other.  Yellowstone Inn is the only place this avid traveler has found on this entire planet that gives you absolutely everything!     

Yellowstone Inn and Conference Center is a part of the Best Western chain.  And that monogram really fits.  This facility is the BEST of the WEST, offering everyone who stays there the best accommodations, the best prices, in the best location that any "higher power` could`ve thought to create.   

Only miles from Yellowstone Park, in a region that goes back in human history more than 11,000 years, Yellowstone Inn and Conference Center, located just off Interstate 90, has long been a landmark of Livingston, Montana.  This monumental beauty of a hotel is the largest facility of its type, and has been a home away from home for thousands of people since its opening.    

This northern gateway to Yellowstone Park, has earned a wonderful reputation for old western authenticity and has become the true  `Mecca` of western hospitality.  Always keeping up with the changing times, Yellowstone Inn has been remodeled throughout the years to keep the building perfect.  And, the rates? Talk about peace and serenity.  The amenities they offer, and the beautiful oversized rooms that are available, are given at the best rates this writer has ever seen.    

When you walk into Yellowstone Inn, you can almost feel the history of the West sink into your pores. The perfection of modern-day facilities mixed with the old western world is a stunning combination that makes your experience go down in history as the  `best of the best.`   

From thousands of years ago to the very recent past, many groups of Native Americans use this tranquil world as their homes, hunting grounds, and transportation routes. These traditional uses of Yellowstone lands continued until a little over two hundred years ago, when the first people of European descent found their way to Yellowstone.  In 1872, a country that hadn`t even celebrated its first centennial, established Yellowstone as the first national park in the world.  With this "new` concept, people found a way to preserve and protect the best of what they had for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.   

And, at Yellowstone Inn you and your family are a part of this amazing world.  The fun of fly-fishing is all around, the wildlife roams, every single scene and location speaks to your soul as you tour this area and enjoy.  And you will enjoy!  Because, unlike other hotels, Yellowstone Inn supplies you with the most modern comfortable accommodations on the planet, so that you can wake up - rested and relaxed - to enjoy each and every day.     

At Yellowstone National Park, a gorgeous journey from Yellowstone Inn, you will receive a glimpse of what, I assume, the Hereafter must look like.  At Yellowstone there are so many "wonders` to explore. Take, for instance, the Canyon Area; with accessible walkways, you overlook the most colorful and inspirational spot in the world - the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, Lower Falls, and Upper Falls. You can stand at  `Artist Point,` and even hear the story of the Yellowstone super-volcano.   

You and your family can experience the Forces of the Northern Range, which spotlights the natural wonders like volcanoes, glaciers, and the fire that shaped the landscape.  Or, enjoy a walking tour atMammoth Hot Springs, with buildings constructed by the U.S. Army from (1886 "1918).   

After the perfect evening at Yellowstone Inn you have the ability to view geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles all in one place!  Your family can see the spectacular Great Fountain Geyser and its neighbor, White Dome Geyser, and travel the ever-changing travertine terraces.    

Discover turbulent and explosive land, and watch your kids enjoy the  `belching` Dragon`s Mouth - a wonder of color and science that will leave all of you gasping with awe.     

And, no, I will never forget to mention Old Faithful.  This amazing awe-inspiring area is at your fingertips when you stay at Yellowstone Inn.  This best-known area is home to the world`s largest concentration of active geysers. Viewing Old Faithful, and then walking the trails past hundreds of geysers and hot springs is a day no one will forget.  And, if you stay at Yellowstone Inn, you will experience the brand new Old Faithful Historic District which is absolutely steeped in beauty, color, and history.     

After days that are this stunning - this magical - the ONLY way to hold on to these amazing moments are to stay at an equally amazing hotel.   

The history, the culture, everything becomes part of your soul when you return back to Yellowstone Inn,and the modern world comes back to spoil, indulge, and pamper you to death.  YOU are the star atYellowstone Inn.  Like the wolves that are now roaming and thriving in the Greater Yellowstone Area, YOU thrive within the gorgeous walls of Yellowstone Inn.    

There are so many amenities at this establishment that we don`t even have the internet space to list them all.  The Best of Western Hospitality is the perfect definition for this newly remodeled and refurbished hotel in Livingston, Montana.  It is a true landmark in this historic western train town, and Yellowstone Innis a traditional meeting place for residents and visitors alike.  There is so much offered in Yellowstone Inn`s ninety-nine spacious rooms, accented by unique western flavors everywhere you look, and designed for easy, comfortable rest and relaxation the old fashioned way.    

And, if you`re like this writer and want the beauty without the snow, Yellowstone Inn offers an indoor heated swimming pool, and an indoor heated parking garage which makes unloading and loading luggage, children, and gifts, easy and painless!   

Now for the grand theme of Yellowstone Inn and Conference Center "the accommodations!  You willnot believe it!  Staying in these huge guest rooms make you feel as if you were just crowned Queen of the Whole Wide World.  Yellowstone Inn doesn`t just offer you the basics like wireless high-speed internet access, etc.  No, no!  These people give you everything.  It`s not even a home away from home - it`s a palace away from home.  

Just imagine going to the  `ballroom`  and having a dream evening with the one you love; or, dining at their fantastic restaurant, Cafe Yellowstone & Double Shot Saloon (which we will cover in-depth next week because you HAVE to know about it), and going back upstairs to a huge selection of grandiose rooms offering King and Queen beds, such as The Wineglass Suite, which is a two-room King with a sleeper sofa, and a full kitchen/dinette with the most extraordinary mountain views imaginable.  All the regular amenities are offered here, ladies and gentleman, BUT inside Yellowstone Inn you also receive HDTV, AND they have oversized executive parlors with loveseats, refrigerators, and microwaves.     

Out of the stunning ninety-nine rooms, there are ninety-two non-smoking rooms; two rooms for the physically challenged; and, three of the most breathtaking suites you`ve ever seen.     

The amenities offered for the physically challenged are extraordinary, as well - (bathtub seats, wheelchair accessibility, closed-caption television, safety bars in showers, extra wide doors in bathrooms) -Yellowstone Inn has thought of everything in order to provide all their guests comfort and peace.   

Want more?  (Gosh, you`re greedy)  But, yes, there is more.  A full service restaurant and lounge; conference, banquet, and meeting facilities; a guest 24-hour laundry with coin-operated washers and dryers; ice/vending machines; complimentary, wireless high-speed Internet access; a picnic area (Seeing Yogi and Boo-Boo would be cool, wouldn`t it?); fax and photocopy machine; 24-hour front desk and guest lobby; elevator, wheelchair accessible; 24-hour lobby coffee service;  cable satellite television; 25-inch with four HBO channels and three ESPN channels in all guest rooms; AM/FM radio stereo; direct dial telephone with voicemail and dataport; lock bars in all rooms; room service (trust me, though, you`ll wantto go to the Yellowstone Café and Double Shot Saloon); coffee/tea maker; rollaway beds and cribs available; adjoining rooms; free local calls; ironing boards; wall mounted bathroom hairdryers with night lights; AND the BEST scenery in the entire world!   

And the cost is absolutely minimal!  There are also AAA discounts and internet rate discounts available for all!

You and your family will go to Yellowstone Inn for a family vacation; or, you, the businessperson, will go to Yellowstone Inn for your event or conference, BUT, after one night, (or, more likely one hour) you will be begging the management to rent you a room for life!   

That is the only downside here, readers.  Forget the real world you will NEVER want to leaveYellowstone Inn.    

Yellowstone Inn and Conference Center 
1515 West Park Livingston, MT. 59047 
(I-90 exit 333) 
*
Phone: (406) 222-6110
Toll-Free (800) 770-1874 (U.S. Reservations)
Fax: (406) 222-3357

 

For Reservation information:
reservations@theyellowstoneinn.com

  Cape Coral Sailboat Access Pool Home is a Favorite for Boaters.   Don't you just love boating when some dolphins are hopping on each side of your boat?  Then you go home and relax in the pool with a drink in hand?   Rent this beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 bath home with 2 car garage in Cape Coral Florida with a direct sailboat access canal in the back yard a straight shot & less than 5 minutes to the river & the Gulf of Mexico by boat.  The whole back of the home opens up with huge pocket sliders into the lanai.  The heated pool (solar & electric) with cover is enclosed & has total privacy, with fruit trees right outside, no neighbors on the other side of the canal.  Near RSW Ft. Myers airport, 15 minutes away.  Sleeps 8-10 & has split floor design, the master is separated from the other bedrooms for added privacy.  Boat ramp is right down the street, but you can park your boat right in the canal in your back yard.  Then wake up & do it the next day.  There is real good fishing nearby and Ft. Myers beach, Captiva Island or Sanibel Island Beach by boat is always fun.  Let us know if you would like to rent our Cape Coral Fl. sailboat access vacation home.       Jan - March .. $1150/week .. $3500/month. May - Oct .. $ 750/week .. $2200/month. Nov - Dec .. $900/week .. $2750/month. 3 day specials 2011:  anytime from 05/1/11 to 11/15/11 is $600.00     Call now to book your vacation: 1 800 421-1974 or 636 530-1974 (636) 675-2361 after 5pm. or weekends.   Do you have family members on a sports team?  If so you need to tell them about www.shop4teams.com where they can save 50% on custom uniforms for all sports.    

 

 

Have you finally reached the point where you realize that taking your company social, is a must to succeed in the new Paradigm of business?

 

Where do you start, and how much time ought you devote every day? The answer is to look where you will find the largest group of your clients, on the Internet. Facebook is a wise first choice with a Facebook Business Page. Facebook has over 500 million users worldwide, and business pages are easily found in the search engines, by perspective clients looking for products, services or travel destinations like yours.

A Facebook Business Page creates a captive audience for your company, by enthralling all those who are interested in your products, services, events, and what is going on within your company. A business page allows you to post video's of your resort, product or service in action. You can create "How To" videos to establish client comfort in using your product. If you are in the travel or adventure business, your clients can get a first hand taste of what is in store for them, upon arrival.

 

Be Social With Facebook, And Allow Your Fans To Be Too

Locking down your page to limit management time is going to make your page less fun, and less interactive for users. Allow users to post on your wall, add photos, tag, add videos and comment on your posts and posts made by other fans. Enabling interactive options may result in a spam post here or there, but you can monitor all activity and delete what you deem inappropriate.

 

 

Optimize Your Status Updates With Keywords

It's significant to note that Facebook pages are indexed by search engines, meaning public updates from your Business Page (unlike your Personal Profile) often show up in Google's real-time search results. When posting a new update on your page, keep your most important keywords in mind. Also, try to add a picture when possible - Facebook updates with images posted on business pages are clicked on 57 percent more than text-only updates, and 24 percent more than posts with a video update.

 

 

Add The "Like" Button Plug-In To Your Website

To encourage your website visitors and blog followers to follow you on Facebook, add the Facebook "Like" plug-in to your site. This button is a single line of generated code that allows people to share your content with their network of friends. By clicking on the Like button, a story appears in the user's friend's news feed, with a link back to your site. In addition, users have the ability to add a comment, giving more prominence to the published story on Facebook.

 

 

Add Interactive Applications.

Facebook offers over 550,000 active applications, many of which help promote your own website and content via your Facebook Business Page. In addition to providing a user-friendly interface, most of the applications are very easy to install and customize. Also, integration and usage of these applications will promote links to your website, blog, or online retail space. Here are my top five must-haves: Networked Blogs, Static FBML (Facebook's HTML), Promotions, Slideshare, and Reviews.

 

Facebook Business Pages are becoming a second web page for most mid-size to small businesses. Employing these basic optimization tactics within your Business Page can significantly enhance your visibility and outreach not only through Facebook, but the entire World Wide Web.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tom Ski is a master of the great outdoors. You can find Tom fly fishing in Montana, photographing elk and bison, watching birds from a hide or in the long grass, talking about life on his radio show and writing about his adventures at NewsBlaze.

Having heard fabulous raves about the Biltmore Estate, Sherry and I planned our next Road Trekin Adventure to include Asheville, North Carolina. We had the privilege to spend an entire day at the Biltmore Estate. The house was built by George Vanderbilt in1895 and portrays amazing craftsmanship, creativity, and ingenuity.

Before talking more about the Biltmore, I'd like to convey a bit about George Washington Vanderbilt and his wife Edith, as I find their dreams and visions just as inspiring as their estate.

George Vanderbilt grew up as the youngest of three children in a family that took responsibility for their future and took advantage of the great opportunity America offered. George's grandfather Cornelius Vanderbilt started a Ferry business, which was one small venture that changed the families' entire future, creating an empire of shipping and railroad companies.

 

Upon these ventures of success, the family expanded into what was known as American royalty. The family believed in philanthropy, enhancing other people's lives through medicine, education, conservation and the arts.

 

I believe this philosophy of George and Edith Vanderbilt, was the true success and the continuing success of the family.

The Biltmore House was built in the tradition of a European style summer home, to be enjoyed for relaxing and entertaining. The original grounds covered 126,000 acres consisting of rolling countryside, heavily timbered areas, abundance of game, and a beautiful river flowing through the estate. Upon entering the grounds was when I began to feel the energies of wonder and awe.

 

Enormous fountains and gardens greeted visitors upon entering the main courtyard. The entire estate was decorated with Christmas ornaments along with merry spirit inside and out. December was a fabulous time to visit. Shuttle after shuttle dropped visitors off at the front entrance. Two stone-carved lions with the big red ribbons around their necks proudly stood to greet them and have their photos taken.

 

The sun was shining and the skies were blue, but the winter air was crisp. We enjoyed shooting photographs until we were too chilled to stay out any longer, and there was much to see.

The Biltmore House is built of steel and brick with a veneer of limestone covering it. The stone statues, gargoyles, and other designs, all hand carved. Detail and character were everywhere.

 

Upon entering the castle like entrance, we decided to explore the upstairs first, as the main floor was already filling up with visitors. The main staircase was made of concrete, very wide and curled to the next level. A gigantic chandelier hung down the open center, illuminating the way. I found it interesting that there were narrow wooden doors just off the stairs that provided just enough room for outside access for window washing and for an incredible view of the grounds.

 

Throughout the interior of the mansion, the craftsmanship was like nothing I have ever seen. In the main Banquet Room, the ceiling was seven stories in height with an enormous pipe organ at one end and a triple fireplace at the other. The carvings on the rail of the pipe organ loft were beautifully carved and a great representation of the work throughout the house. The Banquet Room also had Flemish Tapestries from the 1500's hanging on the sidewalls with incredible side seating down the east wall with two throne style chairs, as well as more seating. From the banquet room we went upstairs to view the main bedrooms and sitting rooms.

 

On the second floor, were George's bedroom and The Oak Sitting Room. The ornate woodcarvings framed the fireplace and around the door, kept my attention for over 40 minutes, focusing on the incredible detail and thoughts behind them. After leaving the Oak Room in a total daze from the awe of the craftsmanship, I found myself in Edith Vanderbilt's room. The curved door caught my eye right away, such an artistic flare. Another detail that I found interesting was that the hall walls were painted in two colors as a map to direct the guests. Biltmore Terracotta was painted on top and Coffee Brown on the bottom third of the wall below the chair rail.

 

The third floor of the house was designed as a guest retreat. The Vanderbilt's hosted a variety of guests from writers, diplomats, artists, to politicians. The furnishings and art in the Living Hall were absolutely beautiful. I imagined being at a party there. For a moment, I thought I could feel the energy of a room full of George and Edith's friends laughing and having fun playing games and talking about world travel.

From the third floor we took the stairs to the basement. In this portion of the Biltmore House are the kitchens, pantries, storage, and the servant's quarters. There was also a recreation area with a 70,000 gallon heated indoor pool. The pool area was in a unique setting with a curved ceiling vaulted room of white brick and even had the original underwater lighting. There also was a bowling alley, gymnasium, several guest-changing rooms and even a "Halloween" room.

 

I headed back up to the main floor, wandered through the Tapestry Gallery to the Library. The Library, to me was the most fascinating room in the entire house. Starting with the painted ceiling "The Chariot of Aurora" by Italian artist Giovanni Pellegrini. This painting once graced the ceiling of Pisani Palace in Venice. Napoleon Bonaparte's chess set and gaming table were also part of the fabulous decor. A very large table had several large magnifying glasses lying on it, just in case the type was too small or maybe it was to get another perspective.

 

My eyes reached the end of the room and stopped to absorb the woodwork and the many volumes of books and great works of knowledge. The Library is said to house almost half of George's collection of books. The energy in the room was full of words and the vibration could be felt deeply. I would have loved to been able to sit there for days reading and absorbing the energy of the room. I stayed still for as long as possible in a large group of visitors like myself.

Once leaving the house, we wondered down to the garden area. Even though it was winter, we could only imagine how beautiful it was in the summer time, which I am looking forward to on the next trip. From wondering around the outdoor garden, we went into the green house.

 

The Green house design is fun and interesting. It was there that the tropical plants, poinsettias, and holiday plants flourished and waited for their next assignment. The arrangements in the green house were very interesting and it was a lot of fun to just wander through.

 

The Birds of Paradise were great to photograph as well as many other plants. As I was photographing, four very lovely women were setting on and standing around a white metal bench. I found it touching to watch them connect with each other and enjoying the wonderful holiday season.

Jessica Peters, Kayla Hearld, Pam Hearld, and Jenny Herald

We walked the trail through the woods to our van, which was very tranquil. I imaged what it must have been like to live there. We traveled to the Village, which is on the estate just a couple miles from the house. The Village includes a variety of shops, a great restaurant and bar, a theatre with an informative documentary on the Biltmore House, and the winery. The best part of the village was the winery.

The tour of the winery was quite interesting and well worth the time. We stopped at the wine tasting room for samples; my favorite was the Biltmore Pinot Noir, with its cherry and vanilla accents.

The winery is housed in the old stone "barn" which used to be the dairy. Back in the days, the dairy supplied milk and butter to the surrounding area. Today the Biltmore Winery is the most visited in the United States with over a million visitors a year. Milk to wine, brilliant concept!

The opening of Biltmore Estate to the public, and the concept of the Winery have kept the Biltmore Dream alive, demonstrating true ingenuity. The winery and the eco-friendly conservation of the land, also shows forward and creative thinking. The Biltmore Estate employs 1800 people.

 

I have only barely touched on the story of the Biltmore House and of George and Edith Biltmore. I believe the visions they held were, what America ought to be seeing now, unlimited opportunities and taking responsibility for ourselves through innovative and desire.

 

Touring the Biltmore Estate was an experience that made a lifelong impression on my soul. Words cannot describe the feeling and the essence of this land of dreams. I see the Biltmore as a true light of inspiration, passion, and unlimited boundaries, which is still manifesting. I am looking forward to the next visit to bring more of the Vanderbilt's grandeur and vision, to the world.

Tom Ski is a master of the great outdoors. You can find Tom fly fishing in Montana, photographing elk and bison, watching birds from a hide or in the long grass, talking about life on his radio show and writing about his adventures at NewsBlaze.

I grew up near the heart of rock & roll. Detroit was where Bob Seger, Ted Nugent, Mitch Rider and the Detroit Wheels, Kiss, Grand Funk Railroad, Motown, and many other bands formed.

Rock & Roll is not just about the music, it's about the heart and soul that brings it to life. Visiting the R&R Hall of Fame was like entering a main vein that flowed right to the root of the cause.

It was a beautiful blue-sky day, with icy cold temps. Sherry and I arrived early and got a great parking spot. We were both amazed that there were so many places of interest in one area, including The Steamship William G. Mather, The Great Lakes Science Center, The International Women's Air & Space Museum, The Cleveland Brown Stadium, as well as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

 

The architectural style of the Rock & Roll Hall was an artistical statement of it's own, which possibly was a reflection of what it held inside. Music played outside the hall and we recognized the tune right away as Boston's "Don't Look Back" which set the mood.

 

Once inside, the first things that caught my eye were the wild displays of fuzzy, glitzy cars that hung from the ceiling. Oversized crazy looking guitars lined up at the windows and music playing in stereo. More cool rides included Joan Jett's Jaguar, which was her very first car. The Jag was purchased before she even had her driver's license and drove it off the lot with just a learner's permit! ZZ Top's famous "Eliminator" was parked nearby along with Jon Bon Jovi's Harley Davidson.

 

The very first exhibits were items of Muddy Waters and T-Bone Walker, two of the greatest blues men of all time! Next-door were the items of Hank Williams, minus his guitar, which is owned and played by Neil Young.

 

Elvis Presley's exhibit was quite impressive showing off a beautiful Cadillac that he had owned and had given away as a gift. A TV screen played an early show with him singing to a small audience with the girls screaming with excitement when he flashed that charismatic smile. The Elvis magic was definitely in the room among the displays, music, photographs, and the stories. My personal favorites included the black and white images of Elvis taken by Alfred Wertheimer. Alfred was Elvis' personal photographer even before "The King" became famous. One image stands out in my mind; it showed Elvis casually sitting in a café in New York City, it may have been one of his last photos taken in public without being recognized. Alfred's photos portray many casual and personal moments of Elvis, capturing a special essence of a great man.

 

Then I entered the maze of memorabilia. Among the items that stuck in my mind were U2's first logo, John Lennon's piano covered with melted candle wax, Jethro Tull's flute, Michael Jackson's glove, a Sgt. Pepper's Uniform, Stevie Nicks gowns, Jimi Hendricks couch and his many album covers, Jim Morrison's boy scout uniform, James Taylors first guitar, just to name a few. There were lyrics written on note pads, napkins, as well as thank you notes and rejection letters, all these items were just bits and pieces of history. It was quite different seeing some of the famous costumes up close and "empty".

 

Sherry was feeling the high energy and I think she realized that rock & roll was not only an expression of words with music but also a complete artistic form of freedom of expression. Here is what she said,

"The Rock & Roll Hall of fame contains art and inspiration of so many different levels! Rock & Roll is not just about the music, it is about justice, freedom, living, loving, peace, expression, passion, people and it's about every single thing!" She still contemplates Jimi Hendrix's message, "Are You Experienced."

Some of the rockers outfits and costumes were truly amazing, some looked better on the stage or screen with the dawning of MTV on the music scene. Music videos definitely changed how music was listened to and watched. Martha Quinn was my favorite VJ and I always enjoyed her shows and Videos of the Day.

Moving beyond the music scene, I grew to appreciate more of John Lennon's poetry, idealism and artistry as well as with Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morrison. In my opinion, these men were well beyond their time of existing upon this plane. If we would all take the time to "Imagine", who knows where consciousness would be now.

 

The main exhibit area holds some very impressive articles of the times and places that once were. It is incredible how one thought or idea can expand imaginations and illuminate new paths such as the Les Paul story and the beginning of the electric guitar sound. Les Paul was actually known as the "Axe" to some guitar slingers. He was always trying to improve the sound of the using whatever was available.

 

Several floors held priceless treasures, it would take days to read and absorb everything. It was great to take a break and sit in the cafeteria and watch others expressions and listen to other points of view. Overhead was the Pink Floyd display from "The Wall" which was very cool and showed incredible creativity. On the top floor was the Bruce Springsteen the featured exhibit. I found it interesting to see how the "Boss" got his start. I also enjoyed reading his poetry, looking at his collection of guitars and photographs. "From Asbury Park to the Promised Land: The Life and Music of Bruce Springsteen"

The hall of Rock also has theatres where you can watch films of past concerts and documentaries. In the hall of Rock, there are four categories, which give the hall of Rock depth of musicians that have been inducted, as some would say all this in the house Rock Built. If you are ever in Cleveland and you like Rock & Roll, it's worth the stop!

Tom Ski is a master of the great outdoors. You can find Tom fly fishing in Montana, photographing elk and bison, watching birds from a hide or in the long grass, talking about life on his radio show and writing about his adventures at NewsBlaze.

The Dubbing Leech is another great fly for beginners. This pattern is easy, inexpensive and a great fly to cast stream side.

With this in mind, the beginner can afford to lose flies in the brush or stream and concentrate on enhancing casting techniques.

I have used this fly pattern both heavily weighted and un-weighted with fantastic results and great to use warm or cold water. This fly also works well on either a turned down or straight eye hook. I have caught trout of every size and even a few bass with this particular pattern.

 

Materials:
(Use your favorite brand*)

 

- Dai Riki #210 hook size 2/0 - #10(hook in a - 2, 3, or 4 extra long)

-Dubbing with sparkle or without

-Thread 3/0 or 6/0

-Peacock Sword

You may also rib this fly with gold, silver, mylar, or any material you can imagine. Try using wire, tinsel or even cross-stitch floss for different effects. I have caught a lot of fish by creating new "recipes".

Tight Lines.

This Video Sponsored by: Fly fishing Adventures

Tom Ski is a master of the great outdoors. You can find Tom fly fishing in Montana, photographing elk and bison, watching birds from a hide or in the long grass, talking about life on his radio show and writing about his adventures at NewsBlaze.

http://www.roadtrekin.com

http://www.befirstinc.com

Real time shopping is becoming very popular to travelers across the world. Online purchases show that more travelers are booking their own airline reservations, scheduling accommodations, and choosing more activities than ever before.

A leading travel market research firm has discovered that social media through real time searches will have a massive impact on what travelers do and how they will spend their money on vacation. Travelers in the U.S. last year spent 26.8 billion on tours, skiing, sports events, amusement parks, spas, museums, zoos, concerts and other cultural and recreational activities. That's more than twice the amount spent on cruises and package tours, and nearly twice the amount spent on car rentals.

Through social media, you can determine what is attracting travelers, and what they are going to do once they get there. Location based searches and social networks are already having a huge effect on consumer trip planning. The impact is becoming more profound as tablet PC's and android style phones are becoming more prevalent with users and travelers due to ease of use and real time searches. They know what is going on and what others are saying about hotels, events, and activities.

Destination hotels and travel attractions ought to have a social marketing strategy in place to adapt to the fast changing digital landscape to ensure they are in position to take advantage of opportunities. Those who move quickly to develop and engage consumers will gain a significant advantage in a very competitive market place.

Research has discovered three out of four travelers use digital media devices while traveling. Two-thirds say they are more likely to shop, book travel activities and rooms from their devices while traveling. More than three in four travelers cite travel reviews, articles, videos and photos, as a major influence in their decisions before booking. Travelers that are spending the most money on activities are influenced by web content, blogs, buyer's guides and social networks. Four in ten travelers say they always solicit advice from their social networks.

Social Media will continue to significantly influence consumer's choices of activities and destinations. Social media will continue to expand as travelers increasingly depend on reviews, videos, and personal recommendations on socials networks in making future vacation plans and activities.

Tom Ski is a master of the great outdoors. You can find Tom fly fishing in Montana, photographing elk and bison, watching birds from a hide or in the long grass, talking about life on his radio show and writing about his adventures at NewsBlaze.

The wooly bugger is a great fly to begin tying for fishing success.

When I guided and fished a little more than I am at this moment, I always advised fellow casters, "When hiring a guide, find out if he or she ties." In my opinion, a guide who doesn't have a few of his own special patterns, he's not much of a guide.

This pattern is a great place start with the basic techniques and principles to start catching more fish, having fun and saving money on flies. The other thing is, you just can't have to many buggers.

Materials needed:

 

-Hook sizes 10 - 2/0 in three to four extra long.

 

-3-4 extra long hooks of your favorite brand

-3/0 to 6/0 thread,

-Chenille or Dubbing of your choice of color

-Marabou,

-Saddle hackle

-Weight material if you desire to weight them.

The wooly bugger represents many different foods to the trout, stonefly nymphs, baitfish, leeches, dragonfly nymphs, damsel nymphs, or anything that might be alive and edible.

 

Enjoy, have fun and tight lines.

This video & Road Trekin Adventures is Sponsored by;

Montana Fly Fishing Adventures; Book your Montana Fly Fishing Adventure today, Just a Few smith River Dates Left;http://bit.ly/fZMjD6

Tom Ski is a master of the great outdoors. You can find Tom fly fishing in Montana, photographing elk and bison, watching birds from a hide or in the long grass, talking about life on his radio show and writing about his adventures at NewsBlaze.

We have been quite fortunate in so many ways. The weather has been extremely good to us. The day we left Montana the temperature was in the 70's, which is pretty incredible for November. The very next day, Dad told us that is was snowing back home. News of more snow and bitter cold temperatures back home, just made our trip more exciting. We had left, just in time!

It had been twenty-six years since my last trip to Michigan. Much has changed, and yet some things seemed exactly the same. I was blown away by the changes in my old neighborhood, where I grew up. Hills seemed smaller, the trees towered, and the Cardinals seemed redder. I felt as if I were in some sort of time warp.

 

The growth in twenty six years was incredible and the later falling apart of Detroit from corruption and the U.S. auto industry tanking made for a unique picture to observe. In the Detroit metro area, what used to be open space are now parking lots, stores and subdivisions. In the Detroit inter city where neighborhoods used to be, are ghost towns.

 

To me, parts of Michigan seem to have lost an appendage of ingenuity and a sense of self. The Upper Peninsula seemed the same without much change at all, as if it been stuck in time.

 

The best part of the trip was connecting with my family and friends from several chapters ago in my life. It was great to spend time with them, noticing how they had changed and realizing how I have changed.

 

Living on the road, you have to expect things will not always go as planned. I guess that is part of what makes life interesting. We decided we'd better take care of a few things before we left Michigan, like getting the computer fixed and take the van in for some minor repairs and maintenance.

 

Sherry was super bummed out over the computer freezing up, as the warranty had just expired. We rely pretty heavy on our computers, as they provide our lifestyle. Sherry didn't tear out all of her hair over it, but almost. We scheduled an appointment at the Apple Store in Troy in the Somerset Mall, hoping that the crew at the Genius Bar would have good news for us and do a little shopping.

 

Walking to the Apple Store was amazing!! It was like stepping into the future. (Our store back home, is like an office with two desks and a dog to greet you at the door.) The energy was electric, to say the least and no pun intended. The latest and greatest Apple Computers, gear and gadgets, were everywhere. It was an exciting place to be.

 

The Genius Bar was at the rear with several solution stations. The whole place was buzzing with activity; we were checked in right away and waited nervously. Sherry said it felt like waiting at the doctors' office. Finally, it was our turn.

 

(Dr.) Bill asked us a few questions and proceeded to take the Mac into the backroom. He returned several minutes later and told us some bad news...the hard drive could not be opened up. I was surprised that Sherry did not cry. Bill talked with his manager and said that since the warranty had just expired that there would be no charge for this repair. He asked us if we could wait a couple of hours to pick up the computer.

I think the combination of getting the computer back the same day, fixed, at no charge was a band-aid to loosing information. All was good.

 

We took off to tour the mall and to explore what was new for Christmas this year. One store we wandered into was the All Things Detroit. A great place if you are interested in Detroit Products, Motown Music and memorabilia from the Motor City. We had a great time covering all three floors and talking to folks from the area and observing all the unique holiday decorations. Shopping can be great exercise.

 

We arrived back to the Apple Store two hours later and Bill saw us coming and greeted us with a finished product ready to go and even gave us a few pointers. We wished each other a Happy Holiday Season.

Again, we would like to thank Bill and all the Apple Store Crew Members for the great customer service and going the extra mile!

Later that afternoon, we went to the Bean & Leaf in Rochester to catch up on some projects. It is a quaint little corner coffee house with wi-fi, great coffee and fun employees. I found it interesting, as there is a Leaf & Bean in Montana.

Rochester is also the home of Leader Dogs for the Blind. While we were sipping our coffee, 2 dogs in training came in with their people. Sherry bounced right over and struck up a conversation with the trainers and even got to love up the dogs. She would have signed up as a volunteer right then and there, but chose to continue road trekin.

About 270 students come to the center each year to be paired with a guide dog. This is a special place and for some, it means independence, for others self worth, as well as safety. For more cool information on Leader Dogs, please check out: http://www.leaderdog.org/about/faqs.php

The main reason we were in Rochester was to see the incredible Downtown Christmas Light Display that everyone had been raving about.

At 6:00 pm sharp, all the Christmas lights came on and lit up the town! It was absolutely beautiful.

We walked the main street taking pictures, then hopped in the road trekin van and put the mile long main street on video. The video just doesn't capture the feeling of being there. From there we picked up a hot pizza and headed down the highway.

We spent five weeks wandering around Michigan and it only really snowed once. Sherry dug out her snow pants to sit in the snow and take pictures of all the fabulous birds That is probably the last time she'll use them for awhile, cuz...were heading south!

Stay tuned for our next stop in Cleveland at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Tom Ski is a master of the great outdoors. You can find Tom fly fishing in Montana, photographing elk and bison, watching birds from a hide or in the long grass, talking about life on his radio show and writing about his adventures at NewsBlaze.