Author: Bob Lin

TreeSize Free: Helps you analyze disk space usage by showing which folders and files are using the most space.

WinDirStat: A disk usage statistics tool that visually shows the size of files and folders.

Everything: A fast file search tool to find any file or folder on your PC.

FreeCommander: A dual-pane file manager with advanced features for organizing files and folders.

Yes, the spare key for your 2020 Honda CRV can start the engine and allow you to drive. The spare key typically has a built-in transponder chip that communicates with the car’s immobilizer system, enabling the engine to start and function normally. However, if the spare key is a valet key, it might limit access to certain areas, like the glove compartment or trunk, but it should still allow you to drive the vehicle.

The best way to navigate Boston using public transportation is through the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority), known as the “T.” Here’s a guide on how to make the most of it:

1. Get a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket

• CharlieCard: A reusable, plastic smart card that you can load with stored value. It gives you cheaper fares and free transfers between buses and subway lines.
  • Cost: $2.40 for subway, $1.70 for bus with a CharlieCard.
• CharlieTicket: A paper ticket that also works on buses and subway lines but offers slightly higher fares.
  • Cost: $2.90 for subway, $2.00 for bus with a CharlieTicket.
• Where to get them: You can find CharlieCards at most major subway stations or MBTA service centers.

2. Use the Subway (“The T”)

Boston’s subway has 4 main lines:

• Red Line: Connects key spots like Harvard, MIT, and South Station.
• Orange Line: Runs through Downtown Crossing, Back Bay, and North Station.
• Blue Line: Convenient for trips to Logan Airport and Revere Beach.
• Green Line: Travels to Boston University, Fenway Park, and Boston College.

The subway is the fastest way to get around downtown Boston and surrounding neighborhoods.

3. Buses

• Buses complement the subway system and can take you to areas not served by the T.
• The SL1 and SL2 Silver Line buses are especially useful for traveling between Logan Airport and downtown, as the SL1 is free to South Station.

4. MBTA Commuter Rail

If you’re traveling to suburban areas or nearby cities like Salem, Providence, or Worcester, the MBTA Commuter Rail is a great option. It departs from stations like South Station, North Station, and Back Bay.

5. MBTA Ferry

Boston offers ferry services connecting Charlestown and East Boston to the downtown area. The ferry is a scenic option and also part of the MBTA system.

6. Download the MBTA Apps

• MBTA mTicket: Buy commuter rail tickets right from your phone.
• Transit App: Get real-time updates, schedules, and maps for subways, buses, and ferries.
• CharlieCard balance checker: Track your card balance online.

7. Plan Your Trips

• Use Google Maps or the MBTA trip planner to find the fastest routes. Both tools offer step-by-step directions, real-time updates, and fare information.

8. Daily or Weekly Passes

If you’re staying in Boston for a few days, consider getting a 1-day or 7-day pass to save on fares:

• 1-Day LinkPass: $12.00 (unlimited subway and bus rides).
• 7-Day LinkPass: $22.50 (unlimited subway and bus rides).

Conclusion:

• For locals and visitors alike, the CharlieCard is the best option for affordable and convenient travel.
• The subway system is easy to navigate and serves most major tourist attractions.
• Use apps for real-time updates and fare payments to simplify your travel experience.

Boston’s public transportation system is reliable, and with some planning, it’s the best way to get around the city without worrying about traffic or parking!

Each person must have their own CharlieCard when traveling on the MBTA. The CharlieCard is designed for individual use, and you can only tap it once per person per ride on the bus or subway. The system won’t allow the same card to be tapped twice in a row for multiple passengers on the same trip.

If you’re traveling with someone else, you’ll need to get a separate CharlieCard for each person, or you could use a CharlieTicket for one person and a CharlieCard for the other.

However, for bus rides, if you have a CharlieTicket, you can buy two tickets on the spot, but this does not apply to the CharlieCard.

You can refill your CharlieCard in a few different ways. Here’s how:

1. At MBTA Fare Vending Machines

• Available at most T stations (subway stations).
• Steps:
  1. Tap your CharlieCard on the card reader.
  2. Select “Add Value” or “Add Pass.”
  3. Insert cash, or use a credit/debit card to add funds or purchase a pass.
  4. Confirm the transaction and tap your card again to complete the reload.
  5. A receipt will be printed, though it’s optional.
• Payment Options: Cash, credit, or debit cards.

2. Online (MyCharlie)

• You can reload your CharlieCard online, but first, you’ll need to create an account on the MBTA’s CharlieCard website (MyCharlie):
  1. Go to the MBTA website and log in or create an account.
  2. Register your CharlieCard by entering the card number.
  3. Once registered, you can add value to your card.
  4. The value may take a few days to appear on your card.
• Payment Options: Credit or debit cards.

3. At Retail Locations

• Some convenience stores, supermarkets, and other retail locations in the Boston area offer CharlieCard reloads. Look for locations that display the CharlieCard sign.
• You can use cash or card at these locations to reload your card.

4. MBTA Customer Service Centers

• You can also visit MBTA customer service centers at major stations like Downtown Crossing, North Station, and South Station to refill your card.

Note:

• You can load either stored value (e.g., $10, $20) for pay-as-you-go travel or purchase a monthly pass or daily pass (if you plan to use it frequently).
• There’s no expiration on the stored value, so you can use it anytime.

there are several applications that can help you check drone flight restrictions and airspace conditions in specific locations in real time. These apps provide services such as no-fly zones, temporary flight restrictions, airspace categories, and more, suitable for both drone enthusiasts and professionals. Here are some commonly used apps:

1. AirMap: AirMap provides global drone flight information, including no-fly zones, airports, and other restricted areas. You can view flight restrictions in real time and apply for airspace permissions (if needed). The app also supports flight planning and log recording.
2. B4UFLY: This app, launched by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), is specifically designed for drone flights within the United States. B4UFLY can show whether your current location is suitable for drone flights in real time and provides information on airspace classifications and temporary flight restrictions.
3. DroneDeploy: Although primarily used for aerial photography and drone mapping, DroneDeploy also has airspace information features that can help users understand flight restrictions in their area.
4. UAV Forecast: This app provides weather forecasts and flight condition predictions, as well as displaying no-fly zones and airspace information. It’s suitable for users planning aerial photography missions.

是位于加拿大魁北克省奥卡（Oka）的一家历史悠久的旅馆。它坐落在一座前修道院内，该修道院最初由特拉普派修士于19世纪后期建立。这座建筑因其建筑魅力和历史意义而闻名，现已改造成一家热情好客的旅馆，提供住宿、活动场地和餐饮体验。

主要特点：

1. 历史意义：修道院由特拉普派修士于1881年创建，这些修士对当地社区有着重要贡献，包括开发著名的奥卡奶酪（Oka Cheese）。修士们在修道院生活、工作和祈祷了一个多世纪，直到2009年他们离开后，这座建筑才被改造成一家旅馆。
2. 住宿：旅馆提供舒适的客房，保持了建筑原有的特色，营造出一种融合历史氛围与现代化设施的独特氛围。
3. 活动与会议：Auberge de l’Abbaye d’Oka 是婚礼、公司活动和休养的热门场所，其美丽的环境和历史魅力使其成为理想选择。
4. 餐饮：旅馆设有餐厅，客人可以享用采用本地和季节性食材制作的餐点，常常结合了与该地区传统和文化遗产相关的食谱和风味。
5. 文化和自然环境：旅馆位于奥卡国家公园和双山湖（Lake of Two Mountains）附近，周围环绕着自然美景，是远足、骑行和探索附近景点的理想之地。

Auberge de l’Abbaye d’Oka 提供宁静的历史性休憩场所，让客人有机会体验特拉普派修士的遗产，同时享受周围的优美环境。

We are in White Mountain, NH area to watch fall color. Which train is better, Conway Scenic Railroad, or The Mount Washington Cog Rail?

ChatGPT said:

ChatGPTMemory updated

Both the Conway Scenic Railroad and the Mount Washington Cog Railway offer unique experiences, but they cater to different interests. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

1. Conway Scenic Railroad:
   • Scenery: This train ride offers a picturesque journey through the White Mountains, passing vibrant fall colors, rivers, and historic bridges. You can choose between several routes, including the popular “Notch Train” which goes through Crawford Notch, providing stunning views.
   • Comfort: The train is comfortable with vintage coaches, some offering dining options.
   • Duration: Trips vary from 1-5 hours, depending on the route you choose.
   • Best for: People looking for a relaxing, scenic journey to appreciate fall colors.
2. Mount Washington Cog Railway:
   • Adventure: This is a much more adventurous experience, taking you up to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern U.S. The views from the top are breathtaking, especially during fall.
   • Unique Experience: The cog railway is the first mountain-climbing cog railway in the world, and the ascent offers both scenic beauty and a sense of adventure.
   • Duration: The round trip to the summit takes about 3 hours.
   • Best for: Those looking for a more adventurous ride with panoramic views from the summit.

If your focus is primarily on enjoying fall colors with a relaxing ride, the Conway Scenic Railroad might be the better option. However, if you want a more adventurous experience and stunning views from the highest point in the region, the Mount Washington Cog Railway would be ideal.

4o

You said:

what are Conway Scenic Railroad schedule and cost?

ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT

Searched 6 sites

The Conway Scenic Railroad offers a variety of fall foliage excursions, each with its own schedule and pricing:

1. Conway Valley Train (55 minutes round trip):
   • Cost:
     • Coach Class: $24 (adults), $18 (children 4-12), free for children 3 and under.
     • First Class: $31 (adults), $23 (children 4-12), $15 (infants 3 and under).
   • Schedule: Operates daily.
2. Sawyer River Valley Train (2 hours, 10 minutes round trip):
   • Cost:
     • Coach Class: $54 (adults), $37 (children 4-12), free for children 3 and under.
     • First Class: $68 (adults), $49 (children 4-12), $29 (infants 3 and under).
   • Schedule: Runs daily.
3. Mountaineer to Crawford Notch (4-5.5 hours):
   • Cost:
     • Coach Class: $75 (adults), $52 (children 4-12), $17 (infants 3 and under).
     • First Class: $105 (adults), $65 (children 4-12), $32 (infants 3 and under).
     • Dome Class: $185 (adults), $148 (children 4-12), $108 (infants 3 and under).
   • Schedule: Runs regularly during peak fall foliage season, and in October, the trip extends to 5.5 hours.

Reservations are recommended during fall foliage season due to high demand. You can book directly on the Conway Scenic Railroad website.

4o

You said:

forgot to ask. is Mountaineer to Crawford Notch (4-5.5 hours) one way or two way?

ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT

The Mountaineer to Crawford Notch (4-5.5 hours) on the Conway Scenic Railroad is a round-trip journey, meaning the time includes both the ride to Crawford Notch and the return to North Conway​(

Conway Scenic Railroad

)​(

Visit White Mountains).

This journey takes you through stunning fall foliage scenery and offers spectacular views of the White Mountains, rivers, and notches.

4o

You said:

is Mount Washington Cog Railway two ways also? How much?

ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT

Searched 5 sites

The Mount Washington Cog Railway is a round-trip journey that takes just under 3 hours. This includes about 45-60 minutes to ascend to the summit, an hour-long layover at the top of Mount Washington, and the descent back to the base​(

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

)​(

Discover Mount Washington).

As for pricing:

• Adults: $72 to $86, depending on the time of year and seating selection.
• Children (ages 4-12): $49 to $63.
• Seniors: Slightly reduced rates, around $68 to $82​(Mount Washington Cog Railway)​(The Mount Washington Cog Railway).

It is highly recommended to reserve tickets in advance, especially during peak fall foliage season, as trains can sell out weeks ahead​(

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

)​(

Discover Mount Washington).

To use Google Wallet as a digital wallet for making payments, follow these steps:

1. Download and Install Google Wallet:

• Android: Google Wallet is usually pre-installed on most Android devices, but if not, download it from the Google Play Store.
• iPhone: You can download Google Wallet from the App Store.

2. Set Up Google Wallet:

• Open the Google Wallet app.
• Sign in with your Google account.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to set up a payment method, like linking your credit card, debit card, or bank account.
  • You will be asked to verify your card or bank account with a one-time verification code via SMS or email.
• If your bank supports it, you may also add loyalty cards, transit passes, or gift cards.

3. Adding a Payment Method:

• In the app, tap Payment and then + Add Payment Method.
• Select Add a card and follow the steps to enter your card details.
• Complete verification by receiving a code from your bank.

4. How to Make Payments with Google Wallet:

• In-Store Payments:
  • Ensure NFC (Near Field Communication) is enabled on your phone.
  • Unlock your phone and hold it near the payment terminal.
  • Your phone will automatically send payment through your default payment method.
• Online Payments:
  • At checkout on supported websites or apps, choose Google Wallet as your payment method.
  • Confirm the payment via your phone.

5. Using Google Wallet for Peer-to-Peer Payments:

• You can send and receive money from friends and family by entering their email or phone number linked to their Google Wallet account.
• Go to Send on the home screen, then enter the recipient’s information and the amount.

6. Security:

• Google Wallet doesn’t send your actual card number during a transaction. Instead, it uses a virtual account number to protect your personal details.
• Always ensure your phone is secure with a screen lock, such as a password, PIN, or fingerprint.

7. Check Transaction History:

• You can view past transactions by going to the Activity tab in the Google Wallet app.

Google Wallet is accepted at a wide range of retailers and online merchants, and you can use it at any location that supports contactless payments.

Wireless Android Auto is a convenient way to connect your phone to your car without using a USB cable. Here’s how to set it up and use it:

1. Check Compatibility

• Phone: Ensure your phone supports wireless Android Auto. Wireless connections are supported on most devices running Android 11 and above, but some phones with Android 9 or 10 may work with specific brands like Samsung or Google Pixel.
• Car: Confirm that your car supports wireless Android Auto. Most newer car models or aftermarket head units support it, but it’s good to check your car’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for confirmation.

2. Enable Wireless Android Auto

• On your phone, go to Settings and type Android Auto in the search bar.
• Tap on Android Auto and look for the option that says “Enable wireless projection” or something similar. Make sure this is turned on.

3. Set Up Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

• Ensure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are turned on in your phone’s settings.
• Your phone uses Bluetooth to establish a connection with your car and Wi-Fi to maintain a stable data transfer between your phone and the infotainment system.

4. Initial USB Setup (First-Time Connection)

• The first time you use wireless Android Auto, you may need to connect your phone via USB cable to set it up.
• Connect your phone to the car using a USB cable and follow the setup prompts on both the phone and the car’s infotainment screen.

5. Disconnect USB and Connect Wirelessly

• After the initial setup, disconnect the USB cable. Your car and phone should now be ready for wireless Android Auto.
• On your car’s infotainment system, look for the Android Auto icon or menu.

6. Automatic Connection

• From now on, whenever your phone is in proximity to your car and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled, your phone should automatically connect wirelessly to Android Auto.
• You will see the Android Auto interface appear on your car’s screen without needing to plug in the USB cable.

Additional Tips:

• Reconnect Manually: If the wireless connection doesn’t start automatically, go to your phone’s Bluetooth settings and manually select your car’s infotainment system from the list of paired devices.
• Battery Use: Wireless Android Auto may drain your phone’s battery faster. Consider using a wireless phone charger while driving to keep your battery charged.

Yes, as a senior citizen living in Illinois, you may be eligible for property tax reductions through several programs designed to assist older homeowners. Here are the main options you can consider:

1. Senior Citizens Homestead Exemption

• Eligibility: Homeowners aged 65 or older.
• Benefit: Reduces the equalized assessed value (EAV) of your property by $5,000 to $8,000, depending on your county.
• How to Apply: Contact your local township or county assessor’s office to obtain an application. Once approved, the exemption typically renews automatically each year.

2. Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption

• Eligibility:
  • Must be 65 years of age or older.
  • Have a total household income of $65,000 or less.
  • Own and occupy the property as your principal residence.
• Benefit: Freezes the EAV of your property, preventing increases due to inflation or market changes. Note that this doesn’t freeze your tax rate, so your tax bill may still fluctuate.
• How to Apply: You need to file an application annually with your local assessor’s office.

3. Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program

• Eligibility:
  • Age 65 or older.
  • Annual household income of $65,000 or less.
  • Must have adequate equity in the property.
• Benefit: Allows you to defer all or part of your property taxes until the property is sold or upon your passing. Deferred taxes accrue simple interest at a rate set by the state (usually around 6%).
• How to Apply: Applications are submitted to your county treasurer’s office, typically by March 1st each year.

4. General Homestead Exemption

• Eligibility: Illinois homeowners who occupy their property as their primary residence.
• Benefit: Reduces the EAV of your property by $6,000.
• How to Apply: Usually applied automatically, but check with your assessor’s office to confirm.

Next Steps

• Contact Local Officials: Since programs can vary slightly by county, reach out to your local township or county assessor’s office for specific information and application forms.
• Prepare Documentation: You may need proof of age, income, and residency when applying.
• Be Mindful of Deadlines: Application deadlines can vary, so it’s important to submit your forms on time.

These programs are designed to help senior homeowners like yourself reduce their property tax burden. By taking advantage of these exemptions, you can potentially save a significant amount on your annual property taxes.

To delete old pairings from your Honda CRV’s Bluetooth settings, follow these detailed steps:

1. Access the Infotainment System:
   • Turn on your Honda CRV and keep it in Park mode.
   • On your car’s touchscreen, press the Home button to bring up the main menu.
2. Navigate to the Bluetooth Settings:
   • From the main menu, tap on Settings.
   • Select Phone or Connections (depending on your CRV’s model year and software version).
   • Look for the Bluetooth Device List or Paired Devices option.
3. Find the phone:
   • You should see a list of all devices that are paired with your car.
   • Look for your Samsung S22 in the list of paired devices.
4. Delete the Pairing:
   • Select your Samsung S22 from the list.
   • You should see an option to Remove, Delete, or Unpair the device. Tap on that option to remove the Samsung S22 from the paired list.
5. Confirm the Action:
   • The system may ask for confirmation to delete the pairing. Confirm that you want to remove the device.
6. Restart Bluetooth Pairing:
   • After removing the old pairing, try to pair your Samsung S22 again using the car’s Add Bluetooth Device option.