Stamps of Bahrain – Philatelic Country Profile

Bahrain is is an archipelago of thirty three Islands in the Persian Gulf consisting of Bahrain itself, Muharraq, Umm an Nasan, Sitra, and several smaller islands. Its land area totals less than 300 square miles with a population of around 800,000 (that count includes over 200,000 non-nationals mostly on temporary work visas) – a very small country but very densely populated at over 3000 people per square mile. Over 80% of the population are Muslims (over 65% Shia), with about 10% Christians, and the rest from other groups. It is one of the richest countries in the Persian Gulf with a per-capital GDP (PPP) of close to $35,000 helped by oil, petroleum production & processing, and the financial industry with its status as Financial Hub of Islamic nations. Over ninety percent of the land area is a low lying desert plain with the climate categorized by mild winters and very hot & humid summers. Bahrain was part of the Persian Empire during the period from 3rd to 6th Century BC. A string of Islamic dynasties/rulers controlled Bahrain for many centuries until the Portuguese invaded the Island in 1521. During their reign that lasted 80 years, the area was managed using Sunni governors. After the expulsion of the Portuguese from the Islands in 1602, Abbas I instituted Shii’sm as the official religion in Bahrain. The present constitutional Monarchy of Bahrain headed by King Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa (Sunni) has roots in the Al Khalifa dynasty that came to power around 1820 – treaties with Great Britain ensured they retained the title of rulers.

Indian stamps issued by the Indian postal service sub-office in Manama starting in 1884 were the first stamps used in Bahrain. The first issues considered as Bahrain stamps were a set of fourteen Indian stamps from 1926-32 with a ‘BAHRAIN’ overprint in black issued August 10, 1933. The set (Scott #1 to #14) catalogs for around $300 MNH and around $350 Used. Two other smaller sets followed in 1934 and 1935-37. The period from 1938 to 1944 saw the 1937-40 KGV and Mail Transport and the 1941-43 KGV sets of India being reissued with the ‘BAHRAIN’ overprint in two large sets. The first set of sixteen stamps (Scott #20 to #37) is very valuable at over $800 for MNH and around half that for Used. The second set of thirteen stamps (Scott #38 to #51) catalogs for around $100 either MNH or Used.

After India’s Independence, the British Postal Service started handling the postal services of Bahrain. Their issues were “Bahrain” overprints of British stamps with the denomination also overprinted with Indian currency. The first issue consisted of overprints of eleven stamps in five different British KGVI designs (1937-42) issued 1948-49. The lower denominations of this set (Scott #52 to #61A) are very affordable and catalogs for less than a dollar. The higher denominations that have the classic KGVI and Royal Arms design and the KGVI in an ornate frame design command a premium. The highest denomination (10r on 10sh) is especially valuable at around $60. Bahrain overprints on British stamps were used until 1960. Many popular themes such as the Silver Wedding Anniversary, the Olympic issue, and the UPU issue were used for the Bahrain overprints – these issues are fairly common and trade for between less than a dollar and a few dollars largely based on denomination. In between, Bahrain issued a set of six stamps for local use only – they are significant in that they are the first original designs and show Sheik Sulman bin Hamad Al Kalifah – issued 1953-57, they catalog for around $20 MNH. A similar set was also issued for local use only in 1961 and that catalogs for around $10.

The first original design for regular use was issued on July 1, 1960 and shows the Sheik Sulman bin Hamad Al Kalifah portrait. These stamps were denominated in Gulf Rupee which replaced the Indian Rupee as Bahrain’s currency in 1959. The set (Scott #119 to #129) consisted of eleven stamps with denominations that ranged from 5np to Rs 10. It catalogs for around $30 MNH and less than half that for Used. Other significant issues of Bahrain include:

1. A set of 12 stamps seven different local themes (Bahrain International Airport, Pearl Divers, Pier at Mina Sulman Harbor, Falcon & Horse Race, Hospitality, and mosque & emblem – all with a portrait of the Sheik in the foreground) issued on January 1, 1966. The mosque, sheik, and emblem design used in the higher denominations is especially colorful. The issue was significant in that it is the first issue after Bahrain replaced the Gulf Rupee with their own currency (Dinar & Fils) in 1965. The set (Scott #141 to #152) catalogs for around $60 MNH and less than one-third that for Used. Pearl related design is a fairly popular theme that appears frequently in Bahrain stamp designs and marks the country’s rich tradition of diving for natural pearls on its coast.
2. A set of four stamps issued October 2nd 1971 with the Independence theme following the declaration of Bahrain Independence on August 15th 1971. The set (Scott #182 to #185) consists of two designs – “Freedom” with dove, torch, & globe and Coat of Arms. The set catalogs for around $35 MNH and around $20 Used.
3. A miniature sheet of eight stamps depicting Arabian Stallions released on September 1, 1975. The beautiful sheet (Scott #224) catalogs for around $60 MNH and half that for used. The designs were Brown head, White Mare, Mare and Stallion, and Bedouins on horseback.
4. A miniature sheet of eight stamps depicting Saluki Dogs released July, 1977. The sheet (Scott #256) catalogs for around $35 MNH or used. The designs were Dog and Camels, Dog and Gazelles, Dog and Ruler’s Palace, Dog’s Head, Heads of two dogs, Dog in Dunes, and Playing Dogs. The issue is significant in that Muslims (originated Bedouin tribe “Kiss of Allah” belief) regard Salukis with a patch of white in the the forehead to be blessed.
5. A set of eight stamps released on July 16, 1979 in the “Dhows of the Arabian Gulf” theme. The set (Scott #263 to #270) catalogs for around $80 MNH or used in a block of eights. Individual stamps can be had for a slight discount. The Dhows depicted were Ghanja, Zarook, Shu’ai, Jaliboot, Baghla, Sambuk, Boom, and Kotia.
6. A miniature sheet of sixteen stamps released on March 21, 1992 in the “Indigenous Birds of Bahrain” theme. The sheet (Scott #382) catalogs for around $25 MNH or used. Individual stamps can be had for around a dollar.
7. A miniature sheet of twenty one stamps released on April 23, 1997 in the “Pure Strains of Arabian Horses” theme. The sheet (Scott #492) catalogs for around $40 MNH or used.
8. A set of three stamps released on February 1, 2002 in the “Day of the Arab Woman” theme. The set (Scott #559 to #561) catalogs for around $5 MNH or used. The designs were Emblem, Emblem & Rings, and Women. Woman’s right to vote was granted for the first time in the 2002 election and this issue signify that important political step.

Pumpkin Festival in Half Moon Bay – A Trip Report

October also heralds in the annual Art and Pumpkin festival in Half Moon Bay for Bay Area residents. The 39th festival will be held this year October 18-19, 2009 and the festivities commence a week earlier. The event location is at Main Street off highway 92 between Spruce and Miramontes. The Scarecrow and the Pumpkin weigh-off contest happens on the previous Sunday and Monday (October 11th and 12th) respectively. Like every year, the winning gourd along with the top-five weight-off pumpkins is the prime attraction on the festival weekend.

The route to this popular festival at Half Moon Bay from most parts of the Bay Area includes a single-lane highway for about 5 miles and public transportation is not practical. This combination calls for a travel nightmare in that area for those two days. To circumvent this, go real early and depart early. Though the festival officially is from 9 AM - 5 PM both days, the traditional pancake breakfast is served from 7 AM. The fringe benefit for the early bird is the availability of free parking in one of the side streets. Several paid parking options exist ranging from $5 and $10 for the whole day.

The following is a summary of the main attractions of 2008:

Scarecrow Contest
This was more a competition of creativity and artistry - judging was at 1:00 PM on Sunday, October 12, at the First National Bank, 756 Main Street and the categories included families and classrooms, local businesses and non-profit groups. The contest entry was free (dead-line Friday October 5) and the first-place prize in each category was $200.

Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off
The World's Greatest Gourd Growers competed on Monday, October 13, (7 a.m., on the IDES Grounds, 735 Main Street, in Half Moon Bay) for total prize money of about $20,000 with the winner taking $6 per pound for the champion pumpkin. The champion weighed in at over 1500 pounds.

Pancake Breakfast
The High School Varsity Basketball Team hosted the traditional Pancake Breakfast last year right on Main Street and provided plain or pumpkin pancakes, grilled sausage links, fresh orange juice, and plenty of Peet's coffee.

Pie Eating Contests
Held at the Family Fun Zone at 620 Main Street, this was a highly entertaining event with each participant devouring pumpkin pie heaped high with whipped cream – panache and power eating were considered by the audience judges. For children aged 11 and under the event was held at 2 PM, and at 2:15 PM for those 12 and older on both Saturday and Sunday.

Harvest-Inspired Art
Hundreds of one-of-a-kind handcrafted items by America’s finest artists and craft makers are on display at over 250 booths. Worth more than a cursory look!

Entertainment
IDES Main Stage featured Shana Morrison, Dub FX, Daniel Castro, Manicato, The Megatones, Mama Pacho, Nigel and Clive and The British Invasion and Jim Stevens. The new Ritz-Carlton Southside Stage at the Gazebo featured the “Saturday Blues Blowout” with Stan Erhart and the South City Blues Band and “Sunday Women of Rock” with local favorites Catie Chase and the Getaways and The Robin Campbell Band. Street performers included HeartStrings Music, Marty Atkinson, Emerson, Bob “Stickman” Culbertson and Greg Frisbee.

Family Stage
The Family Stage featured Cowgirl Tricks and shenanigans by Karen Quest, juggling, comedy, unicycling and magic by the incomparable Grinn & Barrett, and The Golden Gourds, a youth talent show that featured singers, dancers, bands, improvisational comedians and poets hosted by local actor/director Michael Lederman.

Haunted House
Located Just off Main Street and Kelly behind 505 Johnston Street (Historic 1906 Jail building) is this barn. It featured live (undead) actors from The Coastside Young Actors Workshop alongside audio-animatronic figures, projected and transparent ghosts, intense lighting, sound, fog effects, and unexpected dropping and swooping objects caused by unseen forces. Every year, creative members of the Coastside Young Actors Workshop wow visitors over with their theatrical skills, fabulous costumes, and spooky special effects.

Family Pumpkin Carving Event
A non-competitive Pumpkin Carving suitable for families with young kids was held on Sunday in the Family Fun Zone at Bank of America, 620 Main Street 10 AM - 1 PM. There is no judging or awards and for $1 pumpkins and carving knives are provided.

Other attractions included “Farmer Mike” carving pumpkin up and down the street, demonstrating his amazing carving skill in transforming giant pumpkins into one-of-a-kind sculptures, Mobile Rock’s climbing wall ($5), and face painting ($5) booth. Add to this the myriad food options (not overly expensive for most food booths are hosted by non-profits), several beer and wine options, the “Take 5 lounge” for the couch potatoes and you have something for every taste.

Overall, we rate this event worth every penny you opt to spend…

Fleet Week in San Francisco – A Trip Report

One of the October highlights in the Bay Area is the fleet week in San Francisco where the public get to sense the power of the US Navy on land and air. Every year, the main air-show happens on the weekend days with practice sessions on Thursday and Friday. The 2009 Dates are from October 8th through the 13th (Thursday through the following Tuesday). The ship tours are available free of charge on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday (11 AM to 4 PM, Piers 27 and 30/32) limited to 20 people at a time.

The fleet week events are all free, but a reserved seating area at Marina Green is not – the options available are

1. Fully-catered Flight Deck Club on Marina Green - $150 adults, $75 children 4-12 (Includes breakfast, lunch, beer, and wine),
2. Reserved Seating on Marina Green - $30.

The Marina Green and the Pier 39 areas are the best locations to catch the air-show. The ships open for tours are moored along Piers 27 and 30/32. The air-show event times are 12:30-5:00 PM (Saturday & Sunday). The vessels can be viewed between 11 AM and 4 PM (Sunday, Monday, & Tuesday).

The parade of the mighty ships on Saturday from 11:30-12:30 PM officially kicks off the event – a tradition that started 100 years ago when 16 US Navy battleships flanked with dozens of escorts and 14,000 sailors entered San Francisco Bay. Those ships were part of the “Great White Fleet”’ (with the ships painted all white) that journeyed around the world. One of the objectives of fleet week then was to ensure Americans were aware of the reasons for having a strong and capable Navy and to provide an opportunity for them to experience it. The objective of the modern version of fleet week continues to be the same.

The air-show event (Saturday & Sunday - 12:30 to 3:00 PM) comprises of several teams that puts on a performance of some sort during the event. Last year, the team consisted of the following teams:

1. US Navy’s Blue Angels.
2. US Air Force’s F16.
3. Canadian Forces Snowbirds.
4. US Coast Guard’s HH65 Helicopter.
5. Airshows America’s four jet L-39 Patriots team and the 2 jet Mig-17 team.
6. Five single small-plane events from sponsors and other aerobatic performers.

Undoubtedly, the coveted part of the air-show belongs to the thunderous Blue Angels - six US-navy F/A-18 Hornets perform amazing synchronized aerobatics for a full hour starting at 3PM (Saturday & Sunday).

The fleet-week ships last year included:

1. USS Pinckney (DDG 91)
2. USS Bonhomme Richard
3. CGC Bertholf
4. SS Jeremiah O’Brien

Just across the Bay the show cannot be appreciated well from Alameda – the planes turn miniature and the diminished sound lags the sight. San Francisco is very crowded during this weekend and public transportation if available is the best option. For us, the most convenient option was the ferry that ran extra trips for the fleet week weekend and we reached Pier 41 at 2:45 PM. After a quick detour to Pier 39 we positioned ourselves on the return line for the ferry back at 4 PM. The reserved line area has the advantage of a terrific view and since it is a line that is blocked off by ferry personnel, that area is available at the last moment. Needless to say, the show was fantastic and the glorious feel of cheering with the crowd on a sunny day lingers on for a very long time…

Last Updated: 10/09.

Economy, Business, Credit, and Debit at the Roundup #11

Welcome to the September 23, 2009 edition of economy, business, credit, and debit at the Roundup.

Jack Schmidt presents Remake Your Life For $22.45 posted at SectorMatic Money Journal, saying, "SectorMatic Money Site - Personal Finance | Everything for the Big Spender on a Budget. Now you can live like a fat cat, even if you're on a money diet. Laugh all the way to the bank with Jack Schmidt and SectorMatic. It's for you!"

Debbie Foster presents Anyone Can Make Websites posted at Internet Income - The Journey.

Joy Kenner presents Accredited Online Nursing Universities posted at Online Nursing and Healthcare Degrees, saying, "If you’ve ever had aspirations for a fulfilling career helping and healing the sick, there’s no better time than right now to make those dreams a reality. Online nursing schools are a reputable source for supplying degrees to qualified individuals who want to get into health care, but simply don’t have the time to attend classes."

Chris McClelland presents Can advertisers get a journalist off the air posted at Lucrative Investing.

MatthewPaulson presents What to Look for Other Than Interest Rates with an Online Bank posted at American Banking News.

Deposit Accounts presents How to Find a Financial Planner posted at Deposit Accounts.

Billeater presents How To Avoid The Dangers Of Debt Consolidation Loans posted at Billeater.

debt kid presents Broke Doesn't Necessarily Equal Bored posted at DebtKid.

Ben presents College Student Identity Theft posted at Money Smart Life.

straight presents Bernanke posted at Stock Market News.

Finavigation presents What You Should Know About Credit posted at Finavigation, saying, "The goal of this lesson is to teach you the most important things you need to know about your credit. This includes understanding what credit, a credit report, and credit score are, learning how to improve your credit score, and knowing what to take into consideration so you can make good decisions when it comes to your credit."

Carolyn Friedman presents Top 3 DIY Home Improvement Mistakes Most Beginners Make posted at Construction Management Schools.

The Smarter Wallet presents Credit Monitoring Services To Check Your Credit Report posted at The Smarter Wallet, saying, "Thanks!"

Matthew Paulson presents Credit Unions Look to Move to Private Insurance as NCUA Charges New Insurance Fees posted at American Banking News.

R.J. Weiss presents Personal Finance Ratio: Measuring and Analyzing Your Finances posted at Genyweath.com.

stock investing tips presents Stock Investing Tips �C 3 Different Stocks for 3 Different Strategies posted at stock investing tips.

All Others

Joseph Ekwu presents LAMIDO SANUSI SACKS BANK MD?s posted at Josephekwu's Weblog, saying, "This is a good post...hang on and read"

Joe Dale presents Accredited Online Game Design & Game Programming Degree Reviews posted at Online Game Degree Programs and Reviews, saying, "As the gaming industry continues to evolve, more and more accredited universities are offering Online Game Degrees, such as Game Programming and Game Design online."

MoneyNing presents How to Get Out of a Rut and Out of a Slump posted at Money Ning, saying, "Ever in a rut? Here's how to get out."

Vahid Chaychi presents A Forex Trading Plan: Limit Your Greed and Make $53,000 Per Month After Two Years posted at Forex Signals | Forex Market Analysis | Online Currency Trading Education, saying, "This is not a scam, get-rich-quick, HYIP or pyramid program. This is just based on foreign currency exchange. In this article, I explain how a forex trader can make about $53,000 per month, after 2 years of trading and starting from a $1000 account."

Sell It on the Web presents Customized E-Commerce Site in WordPress for Less Than $150 posted at Sell It on the Web, saying, "Detailed explanation of how you can easily build a customized e-commerce site using WordPress for less than $150."

nickel presents Investment Performance: It’s a Matter of Perspective posted at fivecentnickel.com.

KCLau presents Withdraw EPF Fund to Pay Insurance Premium? posted at KCLau's Money Tips, saying, "Vincent Lee from Penang generously shares an idea to use your EPF"

Roshawn Watson presents Being A Landlord By Default posted at Watson Inc, saying, "Although choosing to become a landlord can be financially rewarding, many homeowners are finding that this option is not all that it is cracked up to be."

Emily Simmons presents How to Have a Successful Yard Sale posted at Be In Health Now, saying, "These are the tips that helped my husband and I have a very successful yardsale, resulting in more than $400 extra in our traveling fund! A successful yardsale can be a great source of extra income for paying off debt, making an extra mortgage payment, or boosting your savings. Hope you find these tips helpful too; here's to independence!"

Suzanne presents Law of Attraction or Coincidence? posted at Without Dash, saying, "Law of Attraction or coincidence, I don't know. But a few cents income gave me hope and motivation to work harder on becoming financially independent. I'm taking action. Again!"

Braudis Pegram presents Are Some American Banks Un-American? posted at The koH Resources Blog.

Steve Faber presents - The Right Debt Management Solution – How It Can Help You Succeed Financially posted at DebtBlog, saying, "You ability to manage and use debt is one of the main financial skills you can possess if you want to achieve financial success."

SpendOnLife.com presents Credit Recipes: Cooking up Credit Score Greatness posted at SpendOnLife, saying, "Having good credit is an important step to taking on control of your finances. We show you how to use the ingredients in your credit history "pantry" to create a dish of good credit. Our three recipes, ramen noodle credit, credit primavera, and FICO filet mignon, will show you how to make the most of what you've got."

FMF presents Wealth Doesn't Require a High Income posted at Free Money Finance, saying, "You don't have to make a lot of money to become wealthy."

My Life ROI presents 12 Step Program: Shopping Addiction? | My Life ROI, Getting the Best Return On Life posted at My Life ROI, Getting the Best Return On Life, saying, "One road bump to many peoples financial independence can take the shape of an addiction of some sorts. Whether the addiction is actually drugs, day trading, or shopping addiction... the threat is real. This post details ways to tell if someone is addicted to shopping, and ways to treat the problem."

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of

road to financial independence
using our
carnival submission form.
Past posts and future hosts can be found on our

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Carnival of road to financial independence #11

Welcome to the September 22, 2009 edition of road to financial independence.

Frugal Living

oneadvice presents Credit Crunch: Luxuries We Won’t Say No To… posted at One Advice, saying, "The credit crunch is general doom and gloom when it comes to the way in which we spend our income, but there are some credit crunch luxuries which we just won't say no to..."

Christina Taylor presents Lobster Soup posted at Lobster Blog, saying, "Lobster might not be thought of as frugal, but this recipe uses the leftover shells to obtain the rich flavour. Also, lobster is currently at a the lowest price it has been for decades. At a price similar to chicken and cheaper than steak, it's a reasonable way to get a little luxury."

Finance Tips 101 presents Credit Card Company Tricks and Traps Every Consumer Should Know | Finance Tips 101 posted at Finance Tips 101.

Patrick @ Cash Money Life presents Pick the Low Hanging Fruit to Get your Finances in Order Quickly posted at Cash Money Life, saying, "These are some simple steps you can take to make big wins with your personal finances. Sometimes the small wins are more important than the big wins!"

Jason @ Redeeming Riches presents What a Cow, a Red Box and Hair Clippers Have in Common posted at Redeeming Riches, saying, "Find out what these three things have in common and how they can help you reach your goals!"

Kate Hopkins presents 100 Money-Saving Lifehacks for Recent College Grads posted at Online Classes.org.

Credit Answers presents Financial Tips posted at Best Debt Settlement Companies - Credit Answers, saying, "In order to be successful in your goal of becoming debt free you should create a budget for yourself. Below are a few debt advice tips to help you achieve your goals and save"

Colin Robertson presents How Are Credit Card Minimum Payments Calculated? posted at The Truth About Credit Cards.com, saying, "One general rule you can count on is that issuers will use a certain percentage of your outstanding credit card balance, such as one or two percent, as the minimum payment."

Buck Weber presents Ten Ways To Save Money By Staying Home posted at THE BUCK LIST, saying, "Ten frugal and fun ways to cut back on your entertainment budget."

Passive Income

Online Dividends presents $100 Chase Business Checking Promotion posted at Blogging Banks.

Kawa Onatli presents How To Find The Best Affiliate Training posted at Affiliate Training Online.

David Frosdick presents 4 Ways To Achieve Results Like Tony Robbins posted at Life, Business, Internet Marketing.

Yee Shun Jian presents What do you want to know about Internet Marketing and Making Money Online? posted at Internet Marketing And Making Money Online | Ready, Fire, IM!, saying, "Ask me your internet marketing/making money online questions here..."

Reducing Expenses

Wenchypoo presents This Just In: Study Names 4 Common Ways to Cut Disease posted at Wisdom From Wenchypoo's Mental Wastebasket, saying, "I added a fifth way in the article."

Ken Siew presents #12: How to Jumpstart Your Personal Finance! posted at Think Big & Think Money - Guide to Success & Wealth, saying, "Jumpstart your personal finance with these 3 basic steps, recommended by the Bogleheads!"

Patrick @ Military Money presents Money Management Tips for the New Recruits and Recent Graduates posted at Military Finance Network, saying, "Basic money management tips for people going out into the "real world" for the first time. This article applies to new military recruits and recent college graduates."

CreditCardAssist presents Credit Card Reform – How It Will Help You posted at Credit Card Assist, saying, "How the new Credit Card Reform Act will benefit consumers and cardholders when the new law takes effect in 2010."

Smart Unemployment presents Individual Health Insurance: How To Lower Your Premiums In Three Steps posted at Smart Unemployment, saying, "Three great ways to lower the cost of your health insurance premiums."

Four Pillars presents Back To School Cell Phone Deals posted at Quest For Four Pillars, saying, "Comparison of the best cell phone deals for students heading back to school."

Alex presents Is Buying a Rental Property Worth it? posted at MoneyStance - Money Making Opportunity Reviews, saying, "A getting out of debt Journal where Alex is paying down a half a million dollars in debt while simultaneously evicting tenants and battling the woes of a landlord."

Credit Shout presents Should you pay off credit card debt with your home equity? posted at CreditShout.

Big Larry presents Five Phone Calls To Help You Save Money posted at Out of Debt Christian, saying, "Lock yourself in a quiet room, pick up the phone and see how much you can save. You may dread making these calls, but they will put money back into your pocket!"

Stock Investments

Nesher presents Mutual Funds: Know the Advantages and Disadvantages posted at Internet Stock Trading for Beginners.

Jae Jun presents Warren Buffett Stock Pick Portfolio | Old School Value posted at Old School Value, saying, "A look at the intrinsic value and stock holdings of Berkshire Hathaway run by Warren Buffett. Graphs and fair value estimates included."

greenie smith presents Go Green with Eco-DVD Cases posted at Green Packaging.

ABC presents REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) – Invest In Real Estate The Easy Way posted at ABCs of Investing, saying, "A short and simple explanation of REITs - Real estate investment trusts."

jim presents Cheap Stock Trades at Discount Stock Brokers posted at Blueprint for Financial Prosperity, saying, "Whether it's for your retirement account or regular account, you should try to reduce the commissions on stock trades in order to boost your returns."

Darwin presents How Stock Options Work Series: Covered Call Writing posted at Darwin's Finance, saying, "Everything you need to know about how to sell covered call options for income and hedging against stocks you own."

Dan at Everydayfinance presents Herd of Fleeing Investors Have Now Missed 55% Since March posted at Everyday Finance, saying, "This "Sucker's Rally" is now up 55% and counting. Unless you sold in March due to herding. Why attempting to market time in your retirement account is futile."

Silicon Valley Blogger presents Scottrade Review: Top Brokerage For Small Investors posted at The Digerati Life, saying, "Thanks!"

The Investor presents Seven ways to invest in the stock market when you’ve got no money posted at Monevator.com, saying, "Investing is like any other positive habit – you need to start investing early and repeat it often to see the benefit. The longer you put it off, the harder it will be to grow a nest egg to replace your salary or enable you to retire early."

Banker Saver presents How Safe Is Your Retirement Fund? posted at Banker Saver.

Investing Toolkit presents Why Trade In The Forex Market? posted at Investing Toolkit.

Aussie Investor presents Exchange Traded Funds - ETF Investing In Australia posted at Australian Investing, saying, "Exchange Traded Funds are a simple way for investors to build a diversified investment portfolio at a low cost. In this article ETFs are looked at from an Australian perspective. What products are available, how can investors buy them and what else should they consider before purchasing an Exchange Traded Fund?"

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of
road to financial independence
using our
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Past posts and future hosts can be found on our

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road to financial independence, blog carnival.

Added AT&T (T) and Wrote Covered Calls on Ameritrade (AMTD) and Costco (COST)

As twittered previously, we added AT&T (T) to our portfolio over the last month. We also wrote covered calls against our shares of Ameritrade (AMTD). The details follow:

1. AT&T (T) on 8/27/2009 at $26.38 with around 6.25% of our overall portfolio.
2. Wrote Jan 10, 17.5 Covered Calls on our Ameritrade shares (TQAAW) at $2.80 on 09/10/2009.
3. Wrote Jan 10, 60 Covered Calls on our Costco shares (PRQAL) at $2.90 on 09/21/2009.
4. Added about 6.5% cash.

With these transactions, our cash position remained steady at around 9%. Below is our updated portfolio – it is about 12% in the red:

Stock	Buy Date	Buy Price	Current Price	Current % Of Portfolio	Unrealized % Return	Yield as % of Portfolio Value
Altria (MO)	Various	16.69	18.04	3.16	8.12	0.38
Philip Morris International (PM)	1/4/2005	32.19	48.43	6.21	50.44	0.45
Kraft Foods (KFT)	Various	24.03	26.75	3.12	11.30	0.23
Pfizer (PFE)	Various	24.37	16.64	4.85	(31.71)	0.30
ICICI Bank (IBN)	5/18/2006 and 08/01/2008	25.28	35.06	10.23	38.71	0.30
Advantage Energy Fund (AAV)	11/2/2006	11.22	6.93	2.02	(38.26)	0.17
Central Europe & Russia Fund (CEE)	Various	39.23	31.78	6.49	(18.98)	0.03
Patni Computers (PTI)	8/10/2007	20.85	18.31	5.34	(12.25)	0.08
Itron Inc. (ITRI)	11/07/2007	85.01	65.85	3.84	(22.63)	None
Anthracite (AHR)	11/09/2007	7.97	1.11	0.32	(86.07)	0.00
Harvest Energy (HTE)	11/28/2007	21.01	6.34	1.48	(69.83)	0.22
iRobot (IRBT)	12/18/2007	18.65	12.57	2.93	(32.02)	None
LDK Solar (LDK)	01/22/2008	30.49	9.19	1.61	(69.86)	None
Aegon N.V. (AEG)	04/28/2008	15.99	8.21	1.44	(48.64)	0.00
TD Ameritrade (AMTD) – Call Value	05/21/2008	17.68	17.50	4.08	(1.04)	None
Costco (COST)	08/01/2008	62.28	58.58	3.42	(5.94)	0.07
Frontline Limited (FRO)	10/06/2008	36.95	23	2.01	(37.75)	0.17
DryShips Incorporated (DRYS)	02/09/2009	6.96	6.92	2.83	(0.63)	0.00
Plum Creek Timber (PCL)	07/23/2009	30.50	31.38	7.32	2.89	0.46
CPFL Energia S.A. (CPL)	07/28/2009	50.45	53.59	6.25	6.23	0.55
BP plc (BP)	08/05/2009	51.49	54.41	6.35	5.67	0.45
AT&T (T)	08/27/2009	26.38	26.87	6.27	1.84	0.39
Cash				8.99
Total Portfolio					(12.25)	3.90

• For Altria and Philip Morris International, assumed spin-off ratio of 30.83:69.17. Altria is yet to supply the cost-basis info
• For Ameritrade (AMTD), we wrote Jan 10, 17.5 Covered Calls on them at $2.80 on 9/10/2009. Since the current price is above exercise price, exercise price is above.
• For Costco (COST), we wrote Jan 10, 60 Covered Calls on them at $2.90 on 9/21/2009

Below is a summary of transactions during the year:

Stock	Buy Date	Buy Price	Sell Date	Sell Price	% Gain (Loss)	% Portfolio Return*
DryShips (DRYS)	Various	11.66	01/29/2009	8.96	(23.29)	(1.39)
DryShips Feb 15 Calls (OOCBC)	01/29/2009	0.20	01/16/2009	2.50	922	0.58
Companhia Siderugica Nacional (SID)	Various	11.03	01/29/2009	16.01	44.86	1.73
Taiwan Semi Feb 7.5 Calls (TSMBU)	Expired	NA	01/09/2009	0.90	NA	0.77
Taiwan Semi (TSM)	7/27/2006	8.70	03/03/2009	7.76	NA	(0.78)
Direxion Financial Bull 3X Shares (FAS)	03/16/2009	5.09	03/19/2009	6.53	28.31	1.26
Direxion Financial Bull 3X Shares (FAS)	03/23/2009	5.94	03/23/2009	6.22	4.63	0.19
Direxion Financial Bull 3X Shares (FAS)	03/24/2009	6.45	03/24/2009	7.12	10.30	0.44
Direxion Financial Bear 3X Shares (FAZ)	03/26/2009	19.67	03/27/2009	19.91	1.22	0.05
Direxion Financial Bull 3X Shares (FAS)	03/30/2009	5.49	03/31/2009	5.20	(5.35)	(0.23)
Direxion Financial Bear 3X Shares (FAZ)	04/09/2009	10.47	04/13/2009	11.03	5.40	0.22
RQCDU – Ericsson April 7.5 Calls	1/21/2009	NA	04/18/2009	7.50	NA	0.65
Ericsson ADR (ERIC)	5/5/2008	11.83	04/18/2009	7.48	(36.80)	(3.04)
FASEB – May 10 calls on FAS	4/27/2009	0.58	04/22/2009	0.90	NA	0.14
FASEJ – May 8 calls on FAS	5/01/2009	0.93	04/30/2009	1.47	NA	0.14
Direxion Financial Bull 3X (FAS)	4/13/2009	9.86	06/18/2009	8.78	(10.95)	(0.47)
FASFI – June 9 calls on FAS	6/18/2009	0.28	05/18/2009	1.52	NA	0.54
Trina Solar (TSL)	Various	24.90	6/20/2009	22.50	(9.65)	(1.05)
TSLFX – June 22.5 calls on TSL	6/20/2009	0	05/27/2009	2.77	NA	1.21
CKSW	11/09/2007	4.61	07/01/2009	6.84	48.37	1.95
COP	7/29/2009	43.08	08/05/2009	44.44	3.16	0.24
Realized Gain/(Loss) YTD	-	-	-	-	-	3.54

• % Gain/Loss Relative to Portfolio Value at Beginning of Year + Deposits
• The table assumes realization of profits associated with selling options only after the option is exercised or expiry.

Stamps of Bahamas – Philatelic Country Profile

Bahamas is a country consisting of 29 islands located in the Atlantic Ocean south east of United States. Its land area totals less than 5,500 square miles with a population of around 300,000. It is one of the richest countries in the caribean with a per-capital GDP (PPP) of over $27,000 helped by growth in tourism & off-shore banking – those two industries make for over 95% of the economy. US tourists and their financial services sector make the bulk of this and so the economy is directly dependent on economic growth in the US. The Islands were uninhabited until around the 7th century. The arrival of Columbus followed by the Spaniards resulted in the depopulation of the Islands – some where taken away as slaves while others succumbed to diseases such as smallpox for which they had no immunity. Later, the Island became a haven for pirates in the latter half of the 17th century until it became a crown colony in 1718. The current population of Bahamas consists of about 85% blacks, 12% white, and the rest a mix of ethnicities – around 7000-odd loyalists that migrated following defeat in the American revolution, their slaves, and the forced settlement of other slaves following the British abolishment of slave trade in 1807 form their ancestors.

The first stamps used in Bahamas were British stamps with an “A05” Nissau cancellation issued in 1858. Bahamas started issuing their own stamps in 1859. The first issue was a Queen Victoria Chalon Head Imperforate design in dull lake with the inscription “Interinsular Postage” (for use only for local mail) in thin paper. Used copies of this stamp (Scott #1 – 1p dull lake Chalon Head) are very valuable at over $1700. Mint copies can be had for around $60, but keep in mind that these are not as rare as remainders form the bulk of them. There are a couple of varieties in thick paper (reddish lake and brown lake) that catalog for much higher – over $2500 for Used and double that for Mint. There is also a brownish lake variety on thin paper which catalog for around $250 Mint. Perforate versions of Chalon Head design appeared in 1860 and higher denominations in 1861. The Chalon Head designs of 1861 and 1862 in three denominations (1p, 4p, and 6p) and varieties are very valuable (Scott #2 to #10) – the rarest single stamp among them is a variety of the 6p gray violet design of 1862 with a Perf of 11.5x11 or 12x11 – Mint copies (Scott #7a) catalog at close to $20,000. The same variety of the 4p dull rose (Scott #6a) is also valued close to this level. Key Type QV issues appeared in 1863 and these themes dominated the stamp issues till 1883. Most of these stamps catalog in the $100 range for lower denominations and a few thousand for higher denominations in Mint condition. Used copies catalog somewhat lower.

The Queen’s Staircase of Nissau set of 1901 (Scott #33 to #36) was the first original design. The beautiful set catalogs for around $100 Mint and double that for Used. The period till 1930 saw just three additional designs, and certain reissues: a) two sets of stamps issued in 1902 and 1906-11 (Scott #37 to #43 and Scott #44 to #37) respectively with KEVII key type design. The former catalogs for around $450 Mint and around $650 Used while the latter catalogs for about $100 for either Mint or Used, b) two sets of stamps issued in 19012-19 and 1917-19 (Scott #47 to #56 and Scott #58 to #62) respectively with KGV key type design. The former catalogs for around $250 Mint and around $500 Used while the latter catalogs for about $120 Mint and $160 Used, and c) A KGV and Seal of Bahamas set of five stamps (Scott #65 to #69) issued in 1920. The set catalogs for around $35 Mint and $65 Used. Reissues of the Queen’s Staircase of Nissau set and certain of the KGV keytypes complete the stamp issues. The reissues are also valued in the same range as the above original issues.

Common Designs were the most common stamps of Bahamas during the period from 1930 to 1966. Most of these sets are very common and can be had for a few dollars. Orginal designs during this period are mostly commemorative issues and as such commands a premium catalog value. Below are the significant issues:

1. A set of five stamps (Scott #85 to #89) with the The Seal of Bahamas design commemorating the three hundredth anniversary of the colony’s founding. The set catalogs for around $90 MNH and $210 for Used.
2. A long set of 17 stamps (Scoot #100 to #113) issued between 1938 and 1946 with a KGVI and local themes in four designs – KGVI keytype, Sea Gardens, Fort Charlette, and Flamingos in Flight. The set catalogs for around $200 MNH and about half that for Used.
3. A long set of 14 stamps (Scott #116 to #129) issued October 12, 1942 to commemorate the 450th anniversary of the discovery of America by Columbus. It used the same KGVI design in the 1938 set with an overprint that read “1492 landfall of Columbus 1942”. The set catalogs for around $90 MNH and $65 Used.
4. A long set of 16 stamps (Scot #158 to #173) issued January 1, 1954 showing a QEII and local scenes design. Each denomination showed different scene as follows - Agriculture, Out Island settlement, Native Strawwork, Fishing Fleet, Water Skiing, Dairying, Transportation, Paradise Beach, Hotels, Yacht Racing, Sisal (a local fleshy plant that yields a stiff fiber used in rope making), Ship Building, Tuna Fishing, Salt Production, and Parliament Building. The set catalogs for around $60 MNH and around $20 Used.
5. A set of 16 stamps (Scott #204 to #218) issued January 7, 1965 showing a QEII and local scenes design. This set has a colorful multicolor design compared to the much more conservative single color design used in the 1954 set. The set catalogs for around $35 MNH and $20 Used. The themes were Badge, Princess Margaret Hospital, High School, Flamingo, Liner "Queen Elizabeth", Island Development, Yachting, Public Square, Sea Garden, Cannons, Seaplane and Jetliner, Under water postoffice (film project), Conch Shell, and Columbus Flagship

Bahamas started issuing colorful stamps partly aimed at collectors starting in 1967. Significant issues include:

1. A set of 18 stamps (Scott #313 to #330) in the recurring QEII and local scenes design released in 1971. The set catalogs for around $30 MNH and $45 Used. Several variations of the same design were released in different sets in 1973, 1976 (2), and 1978. All of these sets cataog in the same range as the 1971 set.
2. A set of four stamps and a souvenir sheet (Scott #625 to #629) in the Pirates of the Caribean theme released in 1987. The set including the Souvenir sheet catalogs for around $30 MNH and $20 Used.
3. A long set of 16 stamps (Scott #1007 to #1022) in the Birds and Eggs theme released in 2001. The set catalogs for around $50 MNH or Used. Similar long sets were also released in 1990 (Bird Set – Scott #709 to #724), 1987 (Fish Set – Scott #604 to #618a), and 1995 (Seashells Set – Scott #849 to #864). The denominations ranged from 5c to $10 and sport catalog values in similar range.