A screenshot of Google Maps and Bing Maps in Google Chrome (McGarr\McGarr Media)

The discussion almost sounds like the marquee for a heavyweight title match, and when it comes to online cartography, it very much is. While there are plenty of other options out there, the two major contenders in this no-holds-barred cage-match of cartography are Google, an ubiquitous titan in the online world; and Bing (Microsoft), longstanding veteran and Champion of the software world. Both companies offer online and offline mapping software, and both are of great help to road trip enthusiasts and novices alike. Yet, for many, the question is: which is the best?

Ease of Reading

How easy a map is read is a key feature for any good map. For myself though, I find Bing often wins hands down. Bing Maps are more ‘map’ like, that is they have a paper map look and visual feel to them, where Google Maps are very flat. Bing Maps also clearly identify places like National Parks, National Forests, Military Bases, and something completely missing from Google Maps: Indian Reservations. Bing Maps also include the County and State title as you zoom further in, so you can find a county name just by zooming in on a certain part of the country. Bing Maps also has a elevation relief to it, so you can see the same shading and highlighting of mountains as good paper maps. On look and feel, Bing Maps wins the round.

Features

Another key feature of a good mapping system is, well, features. While both mapping systems allow you to draw on the map, creating routes and adding push-pins, Google has a few extra features available. Users can draw lines that snap to roadways, allowing them to create custom, road-by-road routes. Very handy if you like to customize routes on specific roadways without either having to research addresses, or, try to snap the automatically drawn route to what you want. One feature that Google Maps is missing that I prefer over Street View is Birds Eye View on Bing Maps. The images are often clearer, and I’ve been able to use the view more often to find businesses by reading signs on buildings. Even with that one step up over Google Maps, Bing Maps still comes into a second on features.

Who wins?

In my opinion it depends on what you are trying to do. I prefer Google Maps for routing or searching, but use Bing Maps almost nearly as often due to the features and information differences. If Google Maps adjusted itself to display things like Reservations, elevation relief, and county names, then I would most likely use them exclusively.

What do you think? Do you have a preference for your online mapping? Comment below and let us know!

This Article Also Appeared on Examiner.com!

The National Park Service has been hosting celebrations all month in anticipation of this extraordinary film highlighting the history and beauty of what could simply be the crowning achievement of the American Civilization, and set the standard for conservation of our natural places around the world.

We invite everyone to share their thoughts of each episode here, in the Parkway Forums: http://openroadinternational.org/gov/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=270

For more information, visit http://www.pbs.org/nationalparks/

Statue of Liberty

Ellis Island

New  York,  NY  (September 9, 2009) – To kick-off the National Park Service and  the  National  Park  Foundation’s celebration of the national parks on September 26 — National Public Lands Day — the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island will for the first time, open to the public for a special  evening  tour and program event on September 24 and 25, 2009.   As part  of  the festivities, attendees will experience a sneak preview of Ken Burns’s  new documentary The National Parks: America’s Best Idea premiering on PBS the following evening.

“This  is  a  tremendous  opportunity for people to experience these iconic monuments  in  a  new setting,” said Dave Luchsinger, Superintendent of the Statue  of  Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island. “We hope that these two  special  events  will  help to illustrate how unique our National Park system is.”

Ellis Island will be open on Thursday, September 24 and Liberty Island open on  Friday,  September  25.  Both nights boarding will take place at Statue Cruises’  boarding  locations  in  Liberty  State  Park  in Jersey City and Battery Park in Manhattan at 6:00 PM. Vessels will return at 9:00 PM.

Tickets  are  $29  per  individual  and include a voucher for a meal on the island.  Meals  will  be  distributed  at  each islands’ dining facilities. Vegetarian  options  will  be  available.   Tickets  can  be  purchased  at www.statuecruises.com/night-tour.html or   by   calling   877-LADY   TIX (877-523-9849).

The  Great Hall on Ellis Island will be open for visitors who would like to explore  the  exhibits.  On  Liberty Island the Pedestal, Museum and Statue will not be open, but rangers will be stationed around the island providing interpretation and answering questions.

The  special  evening  events  on Ellis and Liberty Islands will kick-off a nationwide  day  of  service  and  celebration  on September 26th, National Public  Lands  Day.   Together,  the National Park Service and the National Park  Foundation  are  inviting  the public across the country to help make America’s  Best  Idea  –  the national parks – even better.   Together, the national  parks  will welcome visitors and volunteers for this special day, and  as  thanks,  present  as  sneak  preview  of Ken Burns’s new film, The National  Parks:  America’s  Best  Idea.   A  full listing of park events – updated daily – is online at www.nps.gov/september26.

Statue Cruises is the concessioner authorized by the National Park Service, Department  of  the  Interior, to serve the public at the Statue of Liberty National  Monument  and Ellis Island. Over 3.5 million annual visitors from around  the world visit these two icons of freedom and hope. In addition to providing  daily  ferry service, Statue Cruises also operates special event cruises,  private  charters  and  the  narrated  Liberty  Harbor Cruise – a 75-minute  tour  of  the  New  York  Harbor.  For  more  information visit: www.statuecruises.com/pressroom.

The  National  Park  Foundation  is  an independent charitable organization chartered  by  Congress  in  1967  to strengthen the connection between the American  people  and  their  national  parks.  As  the  official  national non-profit  partner  of  America’s  National  Parks,  the Foundation raises private  funds, makes strategic grants, creates innovative partnerships and
increases  public  awareness  about  the  need  and  opportunity  for  park philanthropy.  In  its  2008  fiscal  year,  the  National  Park Foundation distributed  grants  and  program  support  of $27.3M. To learn more, visit www.nationalparks.org.

“The  American  people  have created 391 national parks and entrusted their care  to  the  National Park Service.  With the help of volunteers and park partners,  we are proud to preserve these places and to share their stories with  more  than  275  million  visitors every year,” said Dan Wenk, Acting Director of the National Park Service.  “We hope everyone will come out and join us on September 26 to celebrate the parks and our shared commitment to make America’s Best Idea even better.”

“This  will  be  a  memorable day for Americans everywhere to volunteer and participate  in the vitality and preservation of our national parks, and to be  one  of  the  first  to get a glimpse at this historic film,” said Neil Mulholland,  president  and  CEO  of  the  National Park Foundation, a core partner  and  funder  of The National Parks: America’s Best Idea. “This day and Ken Burns’s film are powerful invitations to all Americans to reconnect to  our  national  parks,  to share their legacy, and to join us in helping fulfill their most critical needs.”

Some park events include:

National  Capital  Area  Parks (DC/MD/VA/WV) – The 14 national parks of the  National  Capital  Region will each host their own volunteer and special  interpretive  activities  for  the community throughout the day. Service projects  will  vary by site and include trail projects, river clean-ups  and  exotic  plant  removal.  The  service  day  will  conclude  with  a  celebration  on  the  Ellipse  from  5-8:30pm  featuring fun activities  music,  giveaways  and  a  special preview screening of the The National  Parks:  America’s  Best  Idea.   The program will include remarks by Ken  Burns and other special guests.

Minute  Man  National Historical Park (MA) – Minute Man will be celebrating  its  50th  anniversary  as  a national park on September 26.  Volunteers  will  staff  the  day-long  celebration  from  10am-4pm,  and  will host  demonstrations  of  18th-century  activities  including  leatherworking, music,  and agricultural. Recently rehabilitated structures along Battle Road will be open to the public – many for the first time.

Rocky Mountain National Park (CO) – Volunteers will build a new trail along  the  Continental  Divide in the western side of the park. Throughout the  day  and  across  the  park, a special sneak peak of The National Parks:  America’s Best Idea will be viewed. Beginning at 6pm, Rocky Mountain PBS  and  Etown.org  will  celebrate  Ken  Burns  and  his new documentary at  Chautauqua  Auditorium  in Boulder. Local musicians will play music from  the film and a special preview screening will be offered.

Valley  Forge National Historical Park (PA) – More than 200 volunteers will  spend  the  day building trails, painting cannon, removing crayfish – an  invasive  species  –  from  the  river.  The  park  will  also  host  an  environmental  expo  engaging  people  in green community activities and  businesses.

A   full   listing   of  park  events  –  updated  daily  –  is  online  atwww.nps.gov/september26.

National  Park  Foundation  supporters  including  long-time  proud partner Unilever,   as  well  as  Merrell  are  helping  to  sponsor  the  national celebration  as  well  as  host  complementary  events in cities across the country.

The above content is from a National Park Service Press Release.

This month, Ed Mabrey and Patrick Hare will be the featured poets for the evening.

The event is uncensored, free, and open to the public. Those wishing to read their works (or their favorite works by other authors) may pre-register on the Rorschach Poets Website, listed below, or sign-up upon arrival. Open mic is from 7:00pm – 8:30pm.  Then two featured poets read from 8:30-9:30.

Featured poets have included GCC faculty, nationally known poets and local favorites.  The goal of this reading is to introduce students and faculty to local poets, and vice versa.  All ages and stages of writing are welcomed and encouraged, though this is an uncensored event, so please keep that in mind!

WHAT: Free Association Poetry Open Mic
WHERE: Glendale Community College – Student Union Room 104E
6000 W. Olive Ave.
Glendale, Arizon 85302
WHEN: Begins 7:00 PM MST , ends 9:30 PM MST; Second Tuesday of Every Month
MORE INFORMATION:

www.rspoets.org
www.myspace.com/freeassociationpoetry
www.meetup.com/freeassociationpoetry
or contact: info@rspoets.org

Please note: This is an uncensored event. Material may not be suitable for young children. This event is organized by the Rorschach Poets. The views expressed by any of the participants of the event are not necessarily the views of Glendale Community College, its faculty, or administration.

—

Editor’s Note: Parts of this article contains information from a press release from Rorschach Poets, and other information was produced by ORIM Staff.

Association Disclaimer: McGarr Media Company, the producing company for Open Road International Magazine, donates web hosting services to Rorschach Poets as part of our committment to Community Arts, and Bradly L. McGarr, editor and owner of McGarr Media Company & Open Road International Magazine, is an associating member of Rorschach Poets.

Students will be returning to campus as September approaches to begin studies for the 2009-2010 Academic Year (from sxc.hu contributor ruthiebabe)

July is over, and August is here. That means that summer is counting down it’s last few days before fading into fall. Of course, this also means the college bound are, well, college bound. Families and students will begin to swarm college and university campuses from coast-to-coast as classes set to begin. Seasoned students will know the ropes into getting into their dormitories or apartment buildings, and dealing with the chaos of thousands of people descending on a single college campus.

Open Road International Magazine has gathered a list of tips for the trip to campus, and what to do once arriving on campus.

COLLEGE BOUND: TRAVLING TO CAMPUS

Whether your college of choice is across town, across state, or across the country, there are certain tips to keep in mind when traveling to campus. We’ve separated our tips into three sections: “General”, “Students Traveling Without Parents”, and “Parents Included”.

General

Any big travel event is a good opportunity to double-check your vehicles maintenance. Whether campus is around the corner or across the nation, now is  the time to give a little TLC to your ride:

• Take your car to a local, reputable mechanic for a complete lube, oil, and filter. Ask the technician to do a Pre-Trip Inspection, advising you are taking to the highways. Most technicians will take a moment to look at your brakes, tires, belts, and hoses, checking to see if anything might need to be replaced before you take to the highways. Beware you might not like what you hear, so be prepared to hear the news you have some repairs to do, especially for older cars.
• Give the car a good cleaning, inside and out. A cleaner car outside not only looks nice when arriving at your new college, but also helps with visibility – both for you and other drivers. Cleaning the car’s inside will make sure you’re comfortable for your trip.
• Update your navigation aids. Make sure you have current, local maps for where your college is located, a campus map, and of course, maps needed for your trip. Even if you swear by your GPS they’re not always as accurate as a fresh paper map, and paper maps make a good standby.

Students Traveling Without Parents

Hopefully by the time you have reached college you’ve done a few regional road trips and know how to handle yourself while on the road. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a friend you’re going to school with, here are some safety tips for being on the road.

• Stick to the main roads. You have a limited amount of time, and probably a limited amount of money. Stick to the interstates and main highways. Although sight-seeing is always a good thing, its best in this case to stick to getting to campus.
• Travel-by-day. Start out early and turn in before it gets too dark if you’re traveling across country. This will help ensure you’re making any needed stops during daylight hours when there are other travelers on the road.
• Remember Kindergarten, and don’t talk to strangers. When heading out to take on the world of higher learning, don’t forget some of the lessons you learned when you were younger. Don’t pick up hitch-hikers, and don’t get too friendly with other travelers.
• Learn how to do basic repairs. If you don’t know how to change your own tire, learn how to.
• Get roadside assistance, either through your insurance company or through AAA. ORIM recommends a Plus membership through AAA if available.
• Pack the essentials, such as your cell phone and car charger, and always keep some extra food and water in the car just in case you get stuck.
• Stay alert and pay attention. This is the time to turn down the stereo and use your best driving skills. If you’re traveling out-of-state, local cops have been known to target out-of-state plates, at least in some areas. It is best to not attract any further unwanted attention.
• Know your rights. Remember that when traveling you retain your rights as an American Citizen. Know how to handle yourself during a traffic stop. www.flexyourrights.com has some great tips on how to ensure you retain your rights, whether or not you have anything to hide.

The idea is to play it safe. Being a young, college bound student traveling alone or with other students makes you a prime target for trouble, either from folks that wish to do you harm, law enforcement that would like to fill the local coffers, or even mechanical breakdown.

Parents Included

If you’re traveling with your parents, I express my deepest condolences. Going to college should be a time to spread your wings and break free, become independent. However some parents, either because they choose to hold on to those last few moments, or because the college requests incoming Freshmen leave vehicles behind, drive their students to campus. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few discussions to have with the folks before departing:

• Remind your parents that you appreciate their support, and the lift, to campus. However, set ground rules early on. Remind them that student functions involve the word ‘student’, a designation not synonymous with ‘parental unit’, and thus their presence is strictly verboten (forbidden, if your parent’s don’t know a little bit of German). After arriving and helping with the schlepping of cargo, they are encouraged to sight see… off-campus. In short, ground those helicopters now. Campus is a No-Fly-Zone for Helicopter Parents.
• Explain, and establish, your need to be an adult (and enjoy all the adult-level screwing up that comes along with it).
• If the above options don’t work and you find yourself in the uncomfortable jet wash that comes from Helicopter Parents, remember this: it is legal to change your name and assume an entirely new identity!

Some wisdom for Parents

If you’re reading this article, you probably have been scouring the Internet looking for tips to make the whole process of going to college a little easier.  To make the transition to college easier, we highly recommend first keeping your wits about you. Your baby, like it or not, has grown up and is ready to move on and start their own life. Two weeks after graduating from High School, my brother and I took off in my packed 1991 Chevrolet Lumina and departed for Arizona… from Central Washington. This was 2004, so you can guess that the ’91 Lumina was not in ‘like new’ condition. As precarious a position my Mother’s two youngest boys were in she only asked that we check in when we stopped for the night. We, of course checked in a little more often than asked. I bring this up because asking your kids to call every 30 minutes if they’re traveling to campus alone or, once they’re on campus, asking to be called daily is overkill. Give your kids some breathing room. Ask to be called weekly for the first month or so, to make sure they’re getting situated well. Then just check in once in a while. Your kids will appreciate it!

If you happen to be escorting your bright college student to campus, do them a favor by not being a “Helicopter Parent”. Let them fill out all of their paperwork, have them do everything on their own and only be available if they ask for help. If they fail, and surely they will have egg on their face once in a while, let them dust themselves off. Letting them handle their own affairs is not cruel, it’s actually a great lesson. They’ll have to read over the fine print, make decisions for themselves, and, live with the consequences. When they arrive campus, be available for anything they need, whether it be moving things into their dorm, going shopping for necessities, or just emotional support, but beyond that keep your distance and enjoy the small vacation. Take some time to see what is around town and enjoy yourselves. After all, you either financed all or part of this whole endeavor!

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARRIVE

This is a question  you should have already answered long before you even departed from home. Make sure you find out everything that you need to know from your college prior to departing. Know when you should arrive, what you need to do first, and make a good self-reference guide. Go prepared, and know who to contact in your Student Services department for help.

Make calls to your University or College to find out all the nity-gritty ahead of time, so your arrival on campus can be a welcome memory.

Ultimately, remember why you’re going to college: to learn. While the social scene is a huge part of college life, don’t let it distract you too much from your real purpose on campus. Thousands of dollars of hard-earned money (or a lifetime of student loans) is going to pay for your stay, so make sure every dime counts toward landing a good job.

On behalf of Open Road International Magazine, I wish all of the students attending the 2009-2010 academic year success in their studies. Now, hit the road and hit the books!

The Grand Canyon viewed from Mather Point, Grand Canyon Village

Here is an article that I was debating on whether to write. I visited the Grand Canyon several weeks ago with a friend of mine visiting from out-of-town. The majestic, famous, and breathtaking Grand Canyon. The canyon is all that they say it is. A geological wonder and a geographical monument, it is an amazing sight to see. However, there is one major complication of the Grand Canyon experience which is only caused by its popularity, and that problem is people.

The Road to Grand Canyon

We traveled north out of Tempe early in the morning, trying to beat any resemblance of rush hour and make it north early. We narrowly missed getting to truly tour Arcosanti by a half hour, but we were burning daylight and needed to get north. Pressing on through Arizona’s beautiful range lands and canyons that extend north of Phoenix towards Flagstaff and the Colorado Plateau. The landscape changes slowly, but surely, from Sonoran Desert and Saguaro Cacti to an impressive expanse of grassy range land near Cordes Junction. Climbing up and over the rolling countryside, eventually dropping into the Verde Valley.

If you have the time on a trip, and when touring this part of Arizona I highly recommend setting aside several days to explore, there are a lot of places to see. From Cliff Dwellings at Montezuma’s Castle and other National Monuments in the area, to just the geography of the Verde Valley.

As we made our way toward the cut-off to Sedona, we did not realize we were making a common travel mistake: not checking road conditions.

The road to Big Park and the Village of Oak Creek was clear and the state had finished their construction on new round abouts through the little village. A village not unlike places like Aspen, where rather than Joe’s Diner and Steve’s Hardware, you have Tommy Hilfiger and boutiques. Not exactly what you wanted to experience when standing in a village surrounded by towering red-rock canyon walls. Sedona is not much different.

However, what there was in Sedona was a 25 mile an hour zone that really was about 10, for about 10 miles, do to construction. It isn’t the state’s fault, it was ours. We made a newbie mistake and took a trip without checking first. Oh well.

We traveled up Oak Creek Canyon, as I have in the past, although we did not stop. We were running short on time as it was nearing 10 AM and we had many miles to go.

Oak Creek Canyon Bridge, near Sedona Arizona

After touring through Flagstaff and doing a little yarn shopping, we headed north on US 180 toward Valle, Tusayan, and Grand Canyon National Park.

The views of the San Francisco Peaks as we drove along US 180 were stunning to say the least. I didn’t take any pictures from the moving car, because without stopping I did not want to spoil the beauty with a poor shot. The road traverses some beautiful ponderosa pine forests before letting out into more grassy range land of the Colorado Plateau. This is where you encounter Valle, Arizona. A small town, which is more like a wide-spot in the road, greets you. Turning north, we continued on State Route 64 / US 180 toward Tusayan.

Tusayan, Arizona – A Cafe, and the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

We finally stopped to eat at Tusayan, and chose the Tusayan Cafe for lunch. The place obviously, at one time, was a Denny’s or similar joint (becuase of the standard 1-10 lighted numbers that never get used hanging from the ceiling). The place was clean, and the food was good, but the service… well,  lets just say I’ve received better service from a fast food burger place. The waitress knew nothing of their beverage selection, and the waiter was impossible to flag down. However, that’s the extent of my complaints.

In Tusayan, there is an Imax theatre that shows The Grand Canyon, a film done in association with the National Geographic Society. Had we had more time, I would have insisted seeing the film.

The Canyon, Grand

We arrived at the entrance to the Grand Canyon and paid the $25 entry fee (it’s good for seven days, if you’re wondering). I knew that the Grand Canyon was popular, but I was not expecting what I saw.

Mather Point, the first view point, was packed. Signs along the road informing drivers that shoulder parking was prohibited were apparently only there for amusement. The lack of respect for our National Parks by park visitors not heading the National Park Service’s notice to park only in parking spots was disheartening enough. However, the view was hardly enjoyable with hundreds of people pouring along the narrow trails.

A View of the Grand Canyon from Mather Point

The Canyon View Visitor’s Center was a short hike away, and I must warn you that restrooms in the park are a commodity, and one that is not readily available. Lines stretched out of even the Mens’ room (yes, gents, even we are not immune at the Grand Canyon). The bookstores and visitor centers were wonderful oasis’ from the heat of the Arizona sun, which compared to our trip to Lake Havasu City earlier in the week, was pleasant.

We decided to snag a parking spot near the National Park Service Headquarters and use the shuttle buses to see the sights. In the future, I think I’ll take a bicycle rather than subject myself to conditions that are commonly reserved for cattle. The shuttle buses, full sized transit buses just like what you would find in Metro Phoenix, were frequently filled to “Groping-room Only” capacity. Getting off at your stop required some diplomacy, especially for those like me that are of size. While the National Park Service does it’s best to cut down on traffic by offering the transit buses, they’re clearly on the wrong end of the visitor-to-resource ratio. The Village Route was the worse, and by the time we had arrived at Hermits’ Rest Transfer, we were tired and sweaty. The Hermits’ Rest Route buses have a rule requiring each person to have a seat. It was this rule that was evident by the queue that had formed, at least 4 buses would be seen before we would even consider seeing the route. Hermits’ Rest Road is closed to non-bus traffic for all except the late winter months.

We decided at this point that we had seen enough of the gaping hole in the ground and fought our way on a Village Route bus back to NPS headquarters and proceeded east out of the park. We found some wonderful lookouts along the road to Desert View, and toured the Ruins at Old Tusayan and the Watchtower at Desert View.

The Watchtower at Desert View, Arizona (GCNP)

The trip home involved seeing the vast range lands of the Navajo Nation, which without the aid of a map and the ever present roadside shops, you would never know you had entered their lands. As we drove back to Flagstaff and into Tempe, I reflected on my day while nursing my knees.

The Grand Canyon is definitely a must see part of the American landscape, and one I want to see again. Only next time I think I am going in the off season, and I will go with days to spend between the two rims, Grand Canyon West, and if I can swing it, Toroweep. Perhaps even a rafting trip down the Colorado. Either way, there is one thing for certain that I have come away with: never, ever again for a day trip, and never, again in the height of the tourist season.

If you can’t experience the canyon for several days at a time, including staying in one of the historic lodges, you are truly just setting yourself up for utter disappointment. Between having to fight the crowds to see, quite frankly, a big freaking hole in the ground, and living your daily transit commute on-board the shuttles, you’ll realize that the Grand Canyon is one place you really do want to just spend the money and let someone take you around.

Oh, of course, take the train if you can. It will keep you from being one of those people who disgrace our parks by damaging the landscape with shoulder parking, but it is also worth the money from everyone I have talked to who has taken the rails.

Finally, if anyone from the National Park Service reads this, your hospitality was great, just add more buses to your fleet and you’ll be doing fine. Heck, I’ll even write a letter to my congressman saying funds are needed for that light rail project that was proposed. Either way, transportation needs a change. Even if it is a fleet of thousands of Segways, something needs to be done.

MORE PHOTOS? View our Flickr Set.

The Burro Creek Bridge on US 93 as seen from the Burro Creek BLM Campground.

TEMPE, Arizona - Monday, July 6, 2009 began the first day of an adventure around Arizona. My good friend Laura arrived from Lousiana on Sunday and we ended a long end of driving enjoying some of the delicious Mexican-American food found all over here in Tempe, Arizona. It had been a long day for her, so after a good meal it was time to turn in.

I arrived at her hotel early Monday morning to set forth to Lake Havasu City, our goal was to see the famous London Bridge, which was brought over by Robert McCulloch in the late 1960′s from it’s former home in London, England to the scorching Arizona desert.

The trip started out at about 8:30 AM and it was already over 100 degrees in Tempe. We began traveling west along Interstate 10 toward our first destination: Quartzsite, Arizona.

Quartzsite, Arizona: Town Limits

When driving into Quartzsite from the east, you notice something that is common in parts of Arizona. The Town Limits start near Gold Nugget Road, 6 miles from the nearest signs of the town, making for a ready tax base if Quartzsite were to grow beyond the current town center. However, obscenely exaggerated town limits are not the only interesting thing to see in Quartzsite. In addition to acres upon acres of land for RV’s and camping, there is Paul and his bookstore.

Books, and a little something extra

At first glance, Readers’ Oasis Books along Main Street in Quartzsite looks like just another roadside attraction. The wood-framed building includes additional space added on by trailers parked tail end into the building. One of the first things you may notice is a table out front with free books. The place is inviting, and is a bit of local culture.

That is about the time that you meet Paul, and I mean ALL of Paul.

Now, it is not common in Metropolitain Phoenix to have the owner of the bookstoor approach you wearing nothing more than a strategically placed knitted codpiece held up by a single wire around the waist. However, this is Quartzsite, a desert paradise and home of the interesting.

So, there is Paul who is obviously not shy about his body, which has turned into a sort of brown leather in the hot Arizona sunshine. As shocking as it was to see him walk out to greet us upon our arrival in such a status of unclothedness, any awkwardness should be quickly disavowed. 

Paul’s collection of books is quite interesting. He has stacks and stacks of books traded in by visitors and locals, new books, postcards, and various other gifts. This, of course, includes editions of nudist magazines and books on the nudist lifestyle. However, Paul is a gracious host. Cold sodas for two weary travlers, on the house, as we navigated his stacks and stacks of books and periodicals.

We each found something to take home, and prepared to part ways with a man who is quite a character. Using basic table to determine tax, we paid for our books, and prepared to leave. Not, however, without a lesson in Cacti.

Off-Roading and Vast Nothingness

After saying goodbye to Paul, we set our sights on a landmark listed in my Arizona Atlas, a 47-Armed Saquaro Cactus just outside of Quartzsite.  We set off down Dome Rock Road to find this particular attraction. Sadly though, after thoroghly scanning the countryside, we could not find trace of the famed Cactus. This search included taking my 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis over some rough terrain in search of the beastly cactus.

The Desert Terrain While Searching for the 47-Armed Saguaro Cactus near Quartzsite, AZ.

Not finding the cactus, we set off toward Parker on Arizona 95, over desert grasslands. Again, like Quartzsite, we meet up with an “Parker Town Limits” sign shortly after the highway meets up with Arizona 72, miles from the actual town. In our journey we discovered that towns in Arizona tend to annex far beyond their current extents in hopes of securing potential tax dollars. So, a word of warning to Arizona travlers: just because you’re in the town limits, don’t expect to see a town right away.

We reached Parker and topped off the tank since we were reaching the half-full mark. We arrived to Parker admidst some excing news (exciting for Quartzsite as well). The front page of the local paper said it all: “Walmart Opens July 15th”. This is the big news out of Parker, Arizona.

Lake Havasu and the London Bridge 

The Union Jack, at London Bridge, Lake Havasu City, Arizona

We finally made it, after several hours of driving in temperatures ranging from 103 to 114, to Lake Havasu City and the famous London Bridge. The scorching heat of the July sun made any long periods of outdoor activity down right unbearable. We quickly took our shots of the famous bridge, and then headed inside the Barley Brothers Resturant at the Island Mall & Brewery for lunch. After our experience, I can say that the service at the resturant there was marginal at best.

Lamp Post on the London Bridge

London Bridge

London Bridge

The View North from London Bridge.

Lamps Midspan

Lamps Mid-Span

The View North from London Bridge.

After lunch we decided it was far too hot to do much else and instead headed north, to Kingman. A brief stop along Andy Devine Blvd, we headed toward Phoenix down US 93 and the Joshua Tree Parkway.

Joshua Tree Parkway

The day was definately beginning to get long, as drivers-butt began to set in. We made our way somewhat hastefully down US 93 toward Wickenburg, only stopping a few times. We did make the loop around the Burro Creek Bridge Campground. A warning to drivers heading down to see the bridge from the old highway, it is steep on the way down but fairly well maintained. That is until you cross the old Burro Creek Bridge. The remaining road is cracked and potholed and, much to the dismay of my passenger, completely passable. However, I would recommend that unseasoned drivers avoid this stretch and simply turn around at the campground. 

The day was increadibly long, and the sweltering summer temperatures almost unbearable at times. Walking on the surface of the sun, or as it seemed, in the barren desert wastelands had it’s finer moments. Forever will I remember getting to walk along the London Bridge, but more importanly I will always remember (and will return to visit) Paul, the naked bookseller in Quartzsite, Arizona. If you’re heading out that way, pay Paul a visit and buy a book.

Today’s events were just a shining example of why we must not hesitate to get to know someone while on the road. At first glance, Paul is a strange naked old man. However, after talking to him for a while you get to realize he’s just a good man, with a love for books, and the desire to be free. It is characters like Paul that make road trips more memorable, and it is characters like Paul that remind me I need to step out of my comfort zone while on the road.

Tomorrow, we tour Metropolitain Phoenix and quest for… yarn.

A road through Eastern Washington

Every traveler or family out there has their own ‘Rules of the Road’. Their own list of laws that govern not only the trip, but also anyone traveling along. I even have my own ’10 Rules of the Road’. I want to hear what yours are too. You may either comment directly on our site or visit us on our Facebook page.

And, without further ado, Brad’s ’10 Rules of the road’:

1. This is not a Democracy, it is a Dictatorship… and the Budget is the Dictator. The Driver is only second in command to the budget. It dictates exactly what can, and cannot, happen on the trip. While stopping at that great resturaunt seen on the Travel Channel might be a item on the ‘to-do’ list, if the budget says tacos and gas station hot dogs are the highest cuisine afordable, then guess what… we’re eating at the Taco Bell down the street.
2. Music is up to the driver… but that doesn’t mean the driver can’t relinquish control of the dial from time to time. Remember though, this person has the most responsibility out of anyone in the car. The driver has to maintain safety, all the passengers really need to do is avoid fighting. The driver should at least somewhat enjoy the music on the stereo. Changing it up from time to time keeps things from becoming too boring.
3. DVD Players are left at home. Period. Being out on the road is an opportunity to reconnect with people, with nature, and with yourself. This cannot be done when watching the latest TV shows on DVD. Yes, I know some parents out there will plead and beg, claiming it is the only way to keep the kids entertained. My response: ‘You’re doing it wrong!’ There are plenty of excellent ways out there to keep kids, teens, college buddies, even older parents occupied while churning down the highway. It takes a little creativity, but it is worth it, as it will make the trip memorable… instead of rolling TV time.
4. There is a heirarchy for the shotgun position… and it goes like this: significant other, parents, siblings, best friend, and then, person least likely to cause the driver to want to punch them. Which, means if there are only two people on the trip and you’re asked to sit in the back, it’s either because you smell funky or the driver would rather ask you to ‘tuck and roll’ at the next bus stop.
5. Never, ever, ever trust those discount coupon magazines you pick up at the diner. I have had bad experiences with most places not accepting them. It’s better to not get duped.
6. Research, but not too much. Before any trip, do a little research. However if you’re studying turn-by-turn images on Google Maps Street View, you’re probably doing too much research.
7. Whiney passengers can, and will, be left at the truckstop. Well, over 18 anyway. This means no complaining about the driver’s driving, the airflow, or anything. In fact, when cooped up in a car, it’s best to live by the addage “If you don’t have anything positive to say, don’t say anything at all”. That is of course unless you really enjoy Greyhound.
8. If you need to break wind, please warn first. This goes for even the driver. The warning for the driver may be that the A/C is suddenly turned off and the windows rolled down, but if you don’t have that luxury at least give a warning. Failure to do so will result in the culprit being banned from eating anything other than cardboard.
9. Paper maps are sacred scrolls of wisdom. Now, with that said I’m not entirely adverse to navigation systems. My cell phone, for example, is a navigation system. It’s great when I need a little help and I don’t have my maps. But, reliance on the little buggers are frouned upon, and I don’t think one will ever be installed in my car. If one ever is, the turn-by-turn directions feature will rarely be used, mainly the traffic function if they have it. However, for long trips, get a map. Paper or plastic, it doesn’t matter. There is something unique about paper maps, especially if you write in them. They become a part of the trip, rather than just a utility.
10. A stranger is just a friend you haven’t met yet… but that does not mean leave common sense at the door. Chat up people at the diner, say hello to people at the gas station. Be friendly, but be smart. The only hitchhikers that should accompany you are whatever bugs haved died on the window. Keep it safe, but don’t be too afraid.

Those are my 10 rules of the road. They’re simple, and fun. What are your rules of the road?

In two weeks though, Open Road International Magazine will have it’s first major test of how well our integrated services work. In two weeks will begin the first of several trips by our staff that will test the reliability and relevence of our services. The first test is a short trip to Tucson, Arizona. The second test, a week of touring Arizona. Finally, the third test – reporting from Denver, Colorado for an entire week.

We’re pretty certian our services will be fine during this entire time, but this will be a test for us all. This is expecially considering that not all of our services have been set up just yet!

Our Editor’s Desk, and Site Administration have been busy getting things in order for our big events this summer. Check back in often as we get closer to our staff trips.