Designed in the mid 1970s and constructed in the early 1980s (and another in the late 1980s), the space shuttle fleet made outstanding technological and scientific accomplishments.  This is due to the dedication of countless astronauts, engineers, laborers, managers, and scientists.  In its 30 year history, 1 space station was constructed, 2 shuttles were destroyed (Challenger and Columbia), 6 shuttles were built (Enterprise, Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour), 14 astronauts died (7 each in 2 shuttle destructions), and over 130 missions were successfully completed.  Below are a few images of the legacy...

"Best" as in "best to avoid."  Here is an article "The Internet's Most Successful Scams."  It goes into detail about the top 5 scams to avoid.  Good info there, and see my next entry below as well.  If you just want the highlights, then here you go:

1. Online dating scams
2. Fake anti-virus software
3. Facebook impersonation
4. Becoming a bot
5. Fakosphere (fake ads, blogs, and websites)

In particular, number 3 may affect a lot of people but is fairly easy to thwart.  The author, Bob Sullivan, recomends upgrading your Facebook password.  You want to have a strong password to keep scammers from accessing your personal information (it should be confidential like your bank account and medical records).

Here is an informative article about when you should and should not give out your Social Security Number (this is issued to US citizens by the federal government but is often requested by private organizations).  It also provides ideas about how to politely deny requests or otherwise avoid providing your SS Number.  It has a nice table telling what types of organizations have a legal need to obtain this number and which ones do not.

The article reminds of the time when I was in college and the school wanted my social security number to put on my Student ID card.  I think it's remarkable that I did what the article says.  First, I simply omitted the number.  When confronted with the omission, I explained my concerns and asked for alternatives.  Finally, I resorted to lying.  As a Christian, this goes against my nature, but when people insist on having information they don't need, well a lie is what they get!

So what SS Number did H2O use?  123-45-6789.  I keep the card because it is so funny!