Crappy Charlotte Drivers

What is with all the crappy Charlotte driving? I would give anything to understand the thought process behind some of these people. I'm talking about some really dumbass stupid stuff. For example:

• the female in her luxury sedan who stopped in the middle of the road to apply makeup for several minutes.

• the young mom in her minivan who sat through a green light (almost two) because she was playing with her infant behind her.

• the guy in his SUV who felt the only way to make a left hand turn was to swing over in my lane first.

• the guy who had to slam on his brakes to avoid hitting me because he thought he could "roll" through the 4-way stop intersection when I was making a left hand turn.

• the numerous people who "cruise" in the left lane and wonder why there is a half mile line of cars behind them blowing their horns.

• the jerk who cut me off when he knew I was trying to pass him (on the left).

• the person who decided to make a sudden U-turn without any indication other than slamming on their brakes in front of me.

• all those drivers who cut the corner when they make a left hand turn.

• drivers on their cell phones who are so obviously preoccupied that they are simply dangerous.

In the future, I hope to post photos and/or license plates of these inconsiderate and dangerous drivers, so stay tuned.

Until then, be smart and be safe.

Super Easy Rain Barrel.

The current environmental challenge can be, and should be, approached on an individual basis. We all can take small, painless steps that collectively, serve the greater good. The following is just one Eco-friendly example I would like to share.

This is a 32 gallon rain barrel that my friend, Mark Strohm, fabricated in about 30 minutes on a recent Saturday morning. All the necessary components were purchased off the shelf at a local home improvement store for under $40. Mark says he is going to evaluate the capacity and says he may go up to 44 gallons with his next one. Hey 32, 44, whatever it takes right?

Rain is a naturally soft water and devoid of minerals, chlorine, fluoride and other unwelcome chemicals. In other words, your lawn and landscape will love it. So will your budget.

I'm curious how long it will take Mark's neighbors to follow suite once they see this Eco-baby in action.