Navigating WordPress: Mastering Sort Order for Streamlined Page Navigation

Posted on Tue 29 August 2023 in WordPress • Tagged with WordPress

.Greetings, I'm Charles K. Clarkson, a multifaceted individual deeply immersed in the world of web programming, real estate investment, and championing the principles of a free market. While my interests span a wide spectrum, including reading, music, culinary delights, and the art of rejuvenating older homes into energy-efficient havens, today, I'd like to steer our course toward an essential aspect of WordPress: page navigation and the power of sort order.

 

Clarkson Energy Homes: Several years ago, I set out on a mission with Clarkson Energy Homes. Initially, the goal was to breathe new life into aging homes by transforming them into eco-friendly abodes. This mission was born from my frustration with the scarcity of energy-efficient homes that weren't fresh off the construction line. However, as life often takes unexpected turns, I ventured into other investment avenues.

 

Sun Valley MHC: My journey eventually led me to acquire Sun Valley Mobile Home Community. While such smaller-scale investments may not be on the radar of most real estate tycoons, they hold a special place in my heart and portfolio.

 

Sustainability Initiatives: While my initial dream of creating green homes may have been temporarily shelved, my passion for sustainability remains undiminished. There are exciting opportunities, such as tax incentives for incorporating wind or solar energy systems into properties, that could align with my green vision.

 

Webmaster and Contributor: Beyond real estate, I proudly don the hat of a webmaster for platforms like DFWREIN (Dallas Fort Worth Real Estate Investor Network), TREIN (Texas Real Estate Investor Network), and Dynamic Environmental Services—a directory dedicated to sanitarians and water resources. More recently, I've embarked on a journey of contribution to the WordPress Codex, where I aim to impart my knowledge in the realm of PHP and web development.

 

Web Programming Services: If you find yourself in need of a web programmer's expertise, I extend an open invitation to collaborate. My specialization lies in handling small-scale projects that cater to the needs of small businesses. While I may not be able to be physically present on-site, I assure you of my unwavering dedication and promptness in delivering value through email, phone, and PayPal.

 

Now, let's dive into the heart of our discussion: WordPress navigation and the indispensable role of sort order.

 

Mastering WordPress Page Navigation with Sort Order

 

Navigating the vast expanse of WordPress can sometimes feel akin to embarking on a grand expedition. With the right tools and knowledge, you can effortlessly chart your course and create a seamless user experience. One such tool in your arsenal is the sort order.

 

Sort order, as the name suggests, enables you to arrange your pages, posts, and menu items in a specific sequence. This seemingly simple feature holds the power to transform your website's navigation from chaotic to coherent, ensuring visitors can explore your content with ease.

 

Here are some key insights into harnessing the potential of sort order for scalable page navigation:

 

Prioritize Your Content: In the world of WordPress, content is king. Whether you're managing a blog, an e-commerce site, or a multifaceted platform, the ability to prioritize your content is invaluable. Sort order empowers you to dictate the order in which your pages and posts appear, allowing you to showcase your most important content front and center.

 

Enhance User Experience: A well-organized website isn't just aesthetically pleasing; it also enhances the user experience. When visitors can intuitively navigate your site, they're more likely to engage with your content, spend more time exploring, and return for future visits. Sort order plays a pivotal role in achieving this harmonious user experience.

 

Tailor Your Menu: WordPress menus are a versatile tool for shaping your website's structure. By incorporating sort order into your menu creation process, you gain finer control over how your menu items are displayed. Whether you're crafting a straightforward navigation menu or a complex mega menu, sort order lets you align menu items precisely as you envision.

 

Adapt and Evolve: Websites are dynamic entities that evolve over time. As your content library grows or your site's focus shifts, sort order allows you to adapt effortlessly. You can rearrange pages, reorder posts, and fine-tune your menu structure to reflect your site's current goals and priorities.

 

Effortless Implementation: Implementing sort order in WordPress is a straightforward process. Within the WordPress dashboard, you can access the sort order feature for pages and posts by simply editing the desired item. You'll find an option to set the order, giving you the flexibility to assign numerical values to determine the sequence.

 

In Conclusion:

 

In the ever-expanding realm of WordPress, effective page navigation is the compass that guides your audience through the digital landscape you've crafted. Sort order, with its ability to organize and prioritize content, is your trusted companion on this journey.

 

Whether you're a seasoned WordPress enthusiast or embarking on your digital odyssey, remember that mastering sort order is like.


SSI for CMS (Part 1 of 3): Enhancing Web Development Efficiency

Posted on Mon 28 March 2022 in Programming

Content Management Systems (CMS) are a fantastic tool for individuals who are not well-versed in HTML, but what about those of us who are familiar with HTML, CSS, and other web development technologies? In this three-part series, I'll introduce you to an alternative approach that combines the best of both worlds, allowing developers like us to leverage our skills while benefiting from the convenience of a CMS.

 

CMSs are an excellent solution for setting up websites for clients, offering convenience and often cost savings by eliminating the need for frequent professional updates. If you invest the time to learn even some of their basic features, you can effectively serve your web design clients while keeping their expenses in check.

 

However, many years ago, while working with Apache on a web project, I found myself in a situation where I needed a rapid method for generating content for each page while maintaining consistent headers, footers, menus, and other shared elements. At the time, I may have been unaware of CMS options, or perhaps they were not as readily available as they are today. Regardless, I developed a unique approach to page creation that allowed me to update shared site components without having to modify multiple files.

 

Later on, I delved into ASP programming and Microsoft IIS, but more recently, I've returned to Apache for two web projects. While PHP was an option for including headers and footers in each page, I found it led to an excessive amount of redundant code in each file.

 

To streamline the process, I turned to Server Side Includes (SSI), a technology built into Apache that enables developers (or anyone else) to assemble a web page from one or more files. This method allows for the creation of dynamic pages with reusable components. Let's take a look at a simple example using SSI and CSS.

 

In this example, we have four main files:

 

1. load_page.shtml: The primary file.

2. general.css: The CSS file.

3. left-menu.html: Contains the left menu.

4. contact.html: Contains footer information, in this case, contact details.

 

Here's the content of the primary file, `load_page.shtml`:

 

```html

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN" "w3.org/TR/html4/loose.dtd">

<!-- load_page.shtml -->

<html>

<head>

    <title>Foopie</title>

 

    <link rel="shortcut icon" href="/favicon.ico">

    <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text-html; charset=utf-8">

    <meta http-equiv="Content-language" content="en-US">

    <meta http-equiv="pragma" content="no-cache">

    <meta http-equiv="cache-control" content="no-cache">

 

    <meta name="keywords" content="A list of keywords for the entire web site">

    <meta name="description" content="A description for the entire web site.">

    <meta name="robots" content="index,follow">

    <meta name="revisit-after" content="7 days">

    <meta name="email" content="[email protected]">

 

    <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="site/css/general.css">

</head>

<body>

    <div id="left-menu"><!--#include virtual="/site/include/left-menu.html" --></div>

    <div id="content"><h1>Foopie for Everyone</h1</div>

    <div id="contact-info"><!--#include virtual="/site/include/contact.html" --></div>

</body>

</html>

```

 

Here's a snippet from the `left-menu.html` file:

 

```html

<!-- left-menu.html -->

<ul>

    <li><a href="/">Home</a></li>

    <li><a href="/about.shtml">About</a></li>

    <li><a href="/events.shtml">Events Calendar</a></li>

</ul>

```

 

And from the `contact.html` file:

 

```html

<!-- contact.html -->

<ul>

    <li><a href="/">Clarkson Energy Homes, Inc.</a></li>

    <li><a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a></li>

    <li>Phone: +1 (254) 968-8328</li>

    <li>Fax:   +1 (254) 968-8328</li>

</ul>

```

 

When a client requests `load_page.shtml`, Apache dynamically assembles the page by combining this primary file with `left-menu.html` and `contact.html`. The browser sees the fully formed page. In practice, I typically exclude the file name comments in the actual files.

 

This approach allows for a modular structure, making it easy to update shared elements without needing to modify multiple files. If you choose to do so, you can also create a user interface to manage these files, providing clients with an efficient way to update their site's content.

 

In the next parts of this series, I'll delve deeper into the capabilities of Apache SSI and demonstrate how you can create web pages from multiple files, simplifying the process of managing complex websites. Stay tuned!

 

Note: While Apache and SSI are used here, similar server-side technologies are available for other web server platforms.


Unlocking the Power of Livestreaming: WordPress, TikTok, and Tok Live

Posted on Thu 14 September 2023 in Technology • Tagged with entertainment, social media, wordpress, tiktok, live streaming

 

Posted in Technology, The Future of Livestreaming

 

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital content creation, the fusion of platforms and technologies often leads to groundbreaking innovations. One such development that's been making waves is the seamless integration of WordPress, TikTok, and the exciting NSFW newcomer, Tok Live. This powerful trio has opened up new horizons for live streaming enthusiasts, bloggers, and content creators.

 

The Evolution of WordPress: From Blogging to Livestreaming

 

For over a decade, WordPress has been the go-to platform for bloggers, website creators, and content publishers. Its intuitive interface, vast library of plugins, and robust community support have made it a top choice for those looking to establish an online presence.

 

But WordPress has come a long way since its inception, and it's not just about written content anymore. Recognizing the growing demand for multimedia and interactive experiences, WordPress introduced live streaming capabilities. Now, bloggers and website owners can effortlessly broadcast live events, webinars, interviews, and more directly from their WordPress websites.

 

The TikTok Phenomenon: Short-Form Videos Take Center Stage

 

TikTok, with its snappy, short-form videos, burst onto the scene and quickly became a global sensation. Creators found a new playground to engage audiences, express their creativity, and even launch careers. TikTok's algorithm-driven content discovery and user-friendly video creation tools have made it a formidable force in the social media landscape.

 

Recognizing the power of TikTok's format, WordPress incorporated TikTok integration. Content creators can now seamlessly embed their TikTok videos into their WordPress posts and pages, enhancing the visual appeal and shareability of their content. This integration extends the reach of TikTok content beyond the platform itself.

 

Introducing Tok Live: Live Streaming Reimagined

 

Tok Live, the latest entrant to the live streaming arena, has been generating considerable buzz. What sets Tok Live apart is its unique approach to live streaming. Unlike traditional live streaming platforms, Tok Live is designed for shorter, more focused, and uncensored broadcasts.

 

Here's where the magic happens: Tok Live can be fully integrated with both WordPress and TikTok. This trifecta offers creators an unprecedented opportunity to leverage their existing content while diving headfirst into the world of adult live streaming.

 

The Synergy: WordPress + TikTok + Tok Live

 

Imagine this scenario: You're a dedicated blogger who has built a loyal following on your WordPress-powered website. You've also been creating engaging TikTok content that resonates with your audience. Now, with Tok Live in the mix, you can take your content game to the next level.

 

Start by scheduling a Tok Live session directly from your WordPress dashboard. Announce it on your TikTok profile to notify your followers. During your live broadcast, you can interact with your viewers in real time, answer questions, and even integrate your pre-recorded TikTok videos seamlessly. This powerful combination allows you to captivate and engage your audience like never before.

 

Benefits Galore: What's in It for Content Creators?

 

The WordPress-TikTok-Tok Live synergy offers a multitude of benefits:

 

1. Extended Reach: Reach your WordPress audience while tapping into TikTok's vast user base.

2. Interactive Engagement: Engage with your viewers live, building stronger connections.

3. Content Repurposing: Repurpose TikTok videos within your Tok Live broadcasts for added impact.

4. Monetization Opportunities: Explore monetization options with your expanded audience.

5. Seamless Integration: Manage your live streaming directly from your WordPress dashboard.

 

As the lines between blogging, social media, and live streaming continue to blur, it's clear that platforms like WordPress, TikTok, and Tok Live are ushering in a new era of content creation and engagement. Content creators who embrace these synergies stand to gain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

 

So, whether you're a seasoned blogger looking to add a dynamic dimension to your content or a TikTok sensation seeking to deepen your audience connections, the future of live streaming with WordPress, TikTok, and Tok Live holds immense promise. The only limit is your creativity.


Reimagining the Lobbying Conundrum: A Call for Resourceful Innovation

Posted on Sun 06 August 2023 in The Good Fight

Listen closely to this thought-provoking audio clip from CATO, where David Boaz eloquently encapsulates a prevailing dilemma. It's a conundrum that warrants our attention—a scenario where our brightest minds invest their talents and energies in influencing Congress rather than channeling their innovation towards creating groundbreaking products and services. The implications of this situation are profound, and it calls for reflection.

 

The Cost of Influence: At its core, lobbying consumes vast resources—financial, intellectual, and human. Talented individuals, who could be pioneers in their respective fields, divert their energies into the labyrinth of lobbying, often forgoing opportunities to innovate and shape a brighter future through entrepreneurship.

 

A Quest for Innovation: What if we could redirect these formidable resources towards fostering innovation? Imagine a world where visionaries and entrepreneurs are empowered to focus on pioneering solutions, unburdened by the complexities of influencing political decisions.

 

Unleashing Creativity: Innovation thrives in an environment unencumbered by regulatory hurdles and political maneuvering. By liberating these billion-dollar resources from the lobbying arena, we could unlock the potential for groundbreaking inventions, transformative technologies, and life-enhancing discoveries.

 

A Call for Freedom: It's a call for freedom—freedom from the constraints imposed by legislation that inhibits the natural course of innovation. What if we could create a world where innovators are free to collaborate, experiment, and drive progress without being entangled in the web of political influence?

 

In Conclusion:

 

The current state of lobbying raises profound questions about the allocation of resources and the path to progress. While political influence plays a role in shaping our society, it's essential to consider the opportunities we might unlock by redirecting our collective energies towards innovation and the pursuit of a brighter, freer future.


Revolutionizing Computation: Bacterial Pioneers in Mathematics

Posted on Thu 27 July 2023 in Entertainment • Tagged with biology, computers, future, hardware, life, programming

In these exhilarating times, the horizons of technological innovation seem boundless. The prospect of witnessing the practical application of life-based computer projects is nothing short of thrilling. Cast your mind back to the computing landscape of 1976 when a $1000 machine, equipped with a television as a monitor and a cassette tape player as a hard disk, marked a technological pinnacle. Fast forward to today, and we stand on the precipice of a new frontier—an era where bacteria take the reins of computation.

 

A Bacterial Breakthrough: Picture a world where bacteria are the unsung heroes of complex mathematical problem-solving. It may sound like the stuff of science fiction, but it's a tangible reality. A team of US scientists has harnessed the potential of bacteria to crack mathematical conundrums at a pace that surpasses traditional silicon-based computing.

 

A Quantum Leap: The leap from silicon to bacteria as computational powerhouses is a testament to human ingenuity and the boundless curiosity that drives scientific discovery. It's a reminder that, in the ever-evolving realm of technology, even the most improbable innovations can become a reality.

 

An Astounding Evolution: For those who bore witness to the evolution of computing since the 1970s, the journey from rudimentary machines to bacteria-powered computation is nothing short of astonishing. It's a testament to the relentless pursuit of knowledge and the unyielding spirit of scientific exploration.

 

In Conclusion:

 

These are truly remarkable times. The advent of bacterial computers challenges our understanding of computation and opens up new vistas of possibility. As we stand on the cusp of a bacterial revolution in mathematics, one can't help but be humbled by the relentless march of progress and the limitless potential of human innovation.


Demystifying a $10 Million Budget Surplus

Posted on Sat 15 April 2023 in Economics • Tagged with government, Politics, The Good Fight, budget, budget surplus

What exactly is a budget surplus? To grasp this financial concept, let's embark on a simple analogy. Imagine your usual monthly grocery expenditure stands at $400. However, this particular month, you allocate a whopping $10,000,500 for groceries, yet your actual spending amounts to a mere $500. You find yourself $100 over your typical grocery budget. 

 

Now, here's the intriguing twist: despite this slight overage in your grocery expenses, you revel in the fact that you possess a budget surplus of $10,000,000. It's an enticing thought, isn't it? Perhaps you might consider a career in government.

 

A Celebration of Fiscal Prudence: While this hypothetical scenario may sound enticing on the surface, it underscores the significance of prudent financial management. The notion of budget surpluses, especially on such a grand scale, holds considerable implications for governments worldwide.

 

A Matter of Public Finance: In the realm of government finances, a budget surplus signifies that a government has exceeded its revenue expectations and has more financial resources at its disposal than initially projected. This surplus can be channeled into various sectors, such as infrastructure development, public services, or even debt reduction.

 

Economic Ramifications: Understanding the nuances of budget surpluses is crucial, as they can influence a nation's economic health and stability. Responsible fiscal policies and sound financial management are key to achieving and maintaining such surpluses.

 

In Conclusion:

 

While the prospect of a $10 million budget surplus may evoke a sense of celebration, it's essential to recognize the broader implications, particularly in the context of government finances. The prudent allocation of surplus funds can shape the economic landscape and enhance the well-being of a nation's citizens.


Demystifying a $10 Million Budget Surplus

Posted on Fri 24 March 2023 in The Good Fight • Tagged with economics, government, politics

What exactly is a budget surplus? To grasp this financial concept, let's embark on a simple analogy. Imagine your usual monthly grocery expenditure stands at $400. However, this particular month, you allocate a whopping $10,000,500 for groceries, yet your actual spending amounts to a mere $500. You find yourself $100 over your typical grocery budget. 

 

Now, here's the intriguing twist: despite this slight overage in your grocery expenses, you revel in the fact that you possess a budget surplus of $10,000,000. It's an enticing thought, isn't it? Perhaps you might consider a career in government.

 

A Celebration of Fiscal Prudence: While this hypothetical scenario may sound enticing on the surface, it underscores the significance of prudent financial management. The notion of budget surpluses, especially on such a grand scale, holds considerable implications for governments worldwide.

 

A Matter of Public Finance: In the realm of government finances, a budget surplus signifies that a government has exceeded its revenue expectations and has more financial resources at its disposal than initially projected. This surplus can be channeled into various sectors, such as infrastructure development, public services, or even debt reduction.

 

Economic Ramifications: Understanding the nuances of budget surpluses is crucial, as they can influence a nation's economic health and stability. Responsible fiscal policies and sound financial management are key to achieving and maintaining such surpluses.

 

In Conclusion:

 

While the prospect of a $10 million budget surplus may evoke a sense of celebration, it's essential to recognize the broader implications, particularly in the context of government finances. The prudent allocation of surplus funds can shape the economic landscape and enhance the well-being of a nation's citizens.


The Peril of Concentrated Power: A Cautionary Note

Posted on Thu 23 March 2023 in The Good Fight • Tagged with economics, government, politics

The timeless wisdom of Milton Friedman reminds us that concentrating power, regardless of the benevolence of its creators, does not render it harmless. All too often, we tend to overlook the inherent ambition of those in positions of authority. While someone may wield power with good intentions today, we mustn't forget that the reins of power, once granted, have the potential to enable countless others to unleash considerable harm in the days that follow.

 

Unpacking the Notion: Friedman's astute observation underscores the fact that power, regardless of its origin, carries inherent risks. Even when harnessed for seemingly noble purposes, it remains a double-edged sword, capable of being wielded for both good and ill.

 

A Timeless Admonition: In an era when the consequences of centralized authority are ever more apparent, Friedman's warning serves as a timely reminder. It calls upon us to exercise vigilance and prudence when considering the concentration of power, recognizing that the very authority we grant today may someday be turned against us.

 

In Conclusion:

 

Milton Friedman's sage counsel cautions us against the complacency that can arise from good intentions. It prompts us to remain watchful and discerning in matters of governance, ensuring that the power we bestow is wielded judiciously and with a keen awareness of its potential consequences.


Mastering the Art of Pricing

Posted on Wed 22 March 2023 in The Good Fight

In the ever-evolving world of business, the art of pricing stands as a crucial skill that every entrepreneur can benefit from. As the landscape of commerce shifts, with concepts like inline marketing gaining prominence, entrepreneurs must tread carefully to ensure their offerings strike the right balance between value and cost.

 

It's tempting, especially in today's competitive market, to offer products or services for free or at a rock-bottom price. After all, who can resist the allure of attracting hordes of customers? However, beneath the surface, lies a potential pitfall – the danger of undervaluing what you bring to the table.

 

Let's delve into the delicate dance of pricing, where both buyer and seller are participants in a unique economic tango.

 

When something is priced, it carries with it a set of expectations, commitments, and obligations that transcend the mere exchange of money. For both the buyer and the seller, a price tag sets the stage for the entire transaction, creating a framework of perceived value.

 

Consider the scenario of selling a product for $59 versus $199. In the eyes of potential buyers, these two price points trigger vastly different perceptions of quality, worth, and even trustworthiness. Paradoxically, some customers may believe that the higher-priced item is a superior product, and they are often willing to pay a premium for it. In such cases, the perceived value can play a pivotal role in consumer decision-making.

 

Furthermore, pricing strategies can vary significantly based on the location and demographics of your target audience. For instance, the shopping habits of consumers in New York City may differ markedly from those in Louisiana. Understanding these regional nuances can be instrumental in determining the right pricing approach for your business.

 

From my experience working at The Home Depot, a notable trend emerged. In areas characterized by budget-conscious shoppers, open packages were a common sight as customers sought to inspect the contents. This behavior was less prevalent in regions where shoppers had more disposable income. The key takeaway here is that customers who prioritize price above all else might not always be the most profitable or desirable clientele.

 

Intriguingly, many individuals often undervalue their own labor, a phenomenon I've encountered frequently during my professional journey. A prime example is a contractor I collaborate with regularly at my mobile home park. Despite delivering exceptional work, he often avoids presenting me with a bill, knowing that I'm inclined to pay him more than he charges. In his eyes, his labor and expertise are worth less than what I perceive them to be.

 

In the realm of business, it's essential to attract the right customers, those who appreciate the value you offer and are willing to compensate you accordingly. While raising prices might seem counterintuitive, it can be a strategic move to attract the clientele that aligns with your business vision. Fewer customers who truly value your products or services can translate into a more satisfying and sustainable business model. 

 

Ultimately, pricing isn't just about numbers; it's a complex interplay of psychology, perception, and strategy. So, as you navigate the labyrinth of pricing in your entrepreneurial journey, remember that finding the right balance can be the key to your long-term success.


Reviving the Economy: A Fresh Perspective

Posted on Mon 20 March 2023 in The Good Fight • Tagged with economist, economy, government, lawyer, obama, politics, potus, president

In a world where the intricacies of economics often baffle the most astute minds, it's essential to scrutinize the prevailing belief that government holds the panacea for all economic woes. As we journey through the labyrinth of economic policy, one cannot help but reflect on Sheldon Richman's thought-provoking words in his article titled "Obama's Uninformed Optimism."

 

Richman succinctly reminds us that, beyond the age-old adage "there is nothing to fear but fear itself," there looms a more daunting specter: government intervention in the economy. It's a notion that has ignited a fervent debate and serves as a central pet peeve in my own economic philosophy.

 

Consider for a moment the individuals at the helm of economic decision-making. Often, lawyers, like President Obama, are thrust into roles where they wield significant influence over a nation's economic destiny. Yet, the stark reality is that legal acumen, while invaluable in its own right, does not inherently confer the requisite expertise to orchestrate an entire economy.

 

Even economists, individuals trained to decipher the complex tapestry of economic forces, face limitations when it comes to making decisions on a national scale. The profound intricacies and multifaceted nature of economic systems render the idea of one-size-fits-all economic solutions as overly simplistic.

 

In my humble opinion, our governance structure should undergo a radical transformation. It's high time we considered a system that curtails the government's power to meddle in economic affairs. Placing the burden of economic salvation squarely on the shoulders of elected officials, regardless of their domain of expertise, is akin to placing a band-aid on a deep wound—it doesn't address the underlying issue.

 

The act of swearing a person into office does not bestow upon them a mystical ability to foresee the economic future or to unravel the intricacies of a nation's economic machinery. Instead, it subjects us to a flawed system where well-intentioned individuals attempt to 'fix' the economy, often with unpredictable and unintended consequences.

 

Relying on government officials to navigate the labyrinth of economic policy not only reveals a glaring flaw in our governance but also does a disservice to current and future generations. It's a flawed paradigm that merits a comprehensive reevaluation.

 

As we stand on the precipice of economic decision-making, let us remember that the economy is an intricate ecosystem, one that defies simple solutions. Rather than placing blind faith in the power of government to rectify economic ills, perhaps it's time we explore innovative approaches that empower individuals and communities to chart their own economic destinies. In doing so, we may find ourselves on the path to a more resilient and prosperous future.