Gas Prices too high? Consider Walking for short distances!!

Google realizes that considering the current Gas Prices it might not be a bad idea to go walking for short distances. It would be lighter on your wallet and might make some of us lighter too.

So what has Google Maps done? They have introduced a brand new feature on Google Maps. Now you can get "Walking Directions" in addition to "Driving Directions". For example you are enjoying a meal at Ashoka Indian Cusine in Canton, MI. For whatever reason you decide that next you want to visit the Canton Hindu Temple. So instead of driving you might want to consider walking. And if your geographically challenged then head over to Google Maps for walking directions. Key in "2100 N Haggerty Rd, Canton, MI 48187 (Ashoka Indian Cuisine)" as your start location and for destination type in "44955 Cherry Hill Rd, Canton, MI 48188 (Hindu Temple)". You can now either pick "Driving Directions" or "Walking Directions". Here's what it looks like: (information on this feature found at Google LatLong Blog)

Hindus Angry over Canton Township Commissioner's Urination Remark

Catherine Johnson a Canton Township, MI planning commissioner asked during a debate whether Hindu women urinate in public as part of their faith. This was said on December 3rd, 2007 at a meeting over a $5 million plans to expand the Hindu Temple of Canton. Asian Indians were very...very angry at this and their anger resulted in Catherine Johnson quiting her post.

This from Detroit News:

many Asian Indians said the question was an unfair characterization of their culture and a lie. Others complained the remark underscored stereotypes about cleanliness in India, where poverty is rampant.

About the Hindu Temple expansion plans:

The Hindu temple's expansion plans have caused controversy because neighbors claim the project would look out of place next to $300,000 homes. Members want to demolish the 20-year-old temple and build an ornate, 35,000-square-foot, double-domed replacement deeper on property at Cherry Hill near Canton Center. Planners delayed a decision this month.