On The Fly

Recently, our commute in California has increased from a local 5-minute drive to an hour-long trip on the California freeways. This made me wonder about the extent of traffic congestion on today's roads. With more cars on the road than ever before, it's no wonder many of them end up stuck in traffic.

This year, we started a podcast series reviewing books that have influenced my life and management style. I want to introduce you to "The Secret: What Great Leaders Know — And Do" by Ken Blanchard and Mark Miller.

Recently, while meeting with my primary care physician for an annual physical, he asked, “Do you have any questions?” Yes, "I was wondering what the typical health of your retired patients is. I'm considering retiring myself," I asked –

The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale is a self-help book that explores the impact of optimism and positive thoughts on your life. Peale emphasizes the influence of one's thoughts on shaping experiences and achieving success. This small book has sold over 5 million copies since it was first published in 1952. I recently purchased a copy from our local Barnes & Noble and re...

Merry Christmas - A special holiday reading of At Christmas, by Edgar Guest – narrated by Lori Ball.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to forget the importance of kindness and respect (manners). However, during this season of celebration, we have the chance to renew our commitment to these values and embody the true spirit of social refinement.

"The Christmas Song" (commonly subtitled "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire") is a classic holiday tune that Mel Tormé and Bob Wells wrote. It was first penned in 1944 during a sweltering hot summer. Enjoy!

Experience the magic of Christmas this season with our audio rendition of "Santa’s Toy Shop" (circa 1950). This delightful tale was inspired by the Little Golden Book and illustrated by Walt Disney Studios.

Little Golden Books were launched in 1942 during World War II. The aim was to produce high-quality children's books at an affordable price (25 cents initially), making them accessible to a broader audience.

Thanksgiving in America is known for traditions like turkey dinners, football games, and Black Friday sales. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a long-standing tradition that captures millions of hearts.

"The Man in the Glass" still resonates with readers due to its message about self-reflection, personal integrity, and honest.

Did you know children have been sending letters to Santa for longer than the United States Postal Service has existed to deliver them? However, today, you’re far more likely to get a response if you include the correct address!

Have you noticed the number of electric vehicles currently on the market today? But realistically, the electric vehicle (EV) landscape is still in its early stages. According to a recent article in the How-To Geek newsletter, electric vehicles will soon be faster, have extended ranges, and wireless charging capabilities.

In the halls of academia, Professor Peridot, a man of venerable learning and profound sagacity, found an unexpected companion in Adamas Bontemps—a name as rare as the jewels they endeavor to fathom. Young Mr. Bontemps, a burgeoning gemologist of fervent curiosity, embarked on a journey not merely through the lustrous facets of gemstones but into the intricate tapestry of global intrigue and clande...

Dr. Vo, a brilliant yet witty electrical engineer, stood before the main breaker box of a massive 1.4 MW-DC solar array that had confounded everyone who had dared to diagnose its persistent issue. It had been six long months of head-scratching and ten failed attempts by others before the desperate call came into Dr. Vo's office.

In a recent article from the Interesting Facts newsletter, shedding some tears can be one of the best ways to restore your emotional equilibrium. It sure helped me!

What is Civil Discourse? Respectful conversation, that's it. Introducing Dr. Don Hanley's new blog; join me.

Are you waiting for a job description? Do you take the initiative to provide outstanding customer service? Who is your customer anyway? Reality check - in business and life as individuals, we are President & CEO of our own personal services corporation - Free Agents . 

Can you identify the device in the photo? Here's a clue: it's the size of your thumbnail and functions as a safety device that shields an electrical circuit from excessive current flow. Let's be safe when working with electricity.

Bonus Episode - This is the inaugural episode of GIA Education Bi-Monthly Updates, a podcast series launched in 2006 entitled Inside GIA Education.

In this episode, we review the stark contrast between the historical and modern eras during a recent visit to Las Vegas while attending the RE+ Solar Show at the Sands Convention Center.

In this episode, we will delve into the inventor of television life, whose legacy has been enshrouded in debate.

Are you considering giving your home a fresh, new look? Whether you're moving into a new space or simply craving a change, there's no denying the beauty of a well-executed paint job in transforming the ambiance of your living space. Here's my experience.

Do you typically carry a laptop, tablet, or phone daily? If so, it's likely that you also find yourself having to lug around a cumbersome charger block. Have you ever stopped to consider how these charging blocks actually work?

On Saturday, August 12, 2023, we attended a Ball family reunion hosted by my aunt Deanna Ball in Fairview, Illinois. I’ll admit this was probably the first reunion I’ve attended in about 50 years. Join me!