November 19th, 2008

Show / Hide with Google Maps

For the new release of CampusLIVE we’re adding auto-geocoded maps using the GMaps api and a few custom php classes. We’re using the CodeIgniter framework, coupled with a custom version of the PhoogleMaps class (hacked into a custom CI library).

Our team agreed that we should hide the map under a “show/hide” link since most users wouldnt need to see them. Unfurtunately after placing the map in a hidden div and opening it up with a javascipt link the map would display half of the images and not work properly.

After a lot of thrashing the keyboard, I found the solution. Technically the gmap is drawn to the size of the parent block element. This means that when the map is inside a div with the style “display: none” initially, the map will not completely load. To fix this, use the “new GSize” function to override this and set the actual size of the map. Works great.

Original GMaps Code

var map = new GMap(document.getElementById("map_canvas")); 

With Fix Fix (use GSize(width in px, height in px))

var map = new GMap(document.getElementById("map_canvas"),{size: new GSize(653,348)});

November 4th, 2008

How I Voted in the 2008 Elections

President / VP
Obama/Biden

#1 – should income tax be abolished in MA.
No. There are enough cuts as is. Property taxes would jump, not a solution at all.

#2 – decriminalize marijuana poccession under 1oz.
Yes. It’s ludicrous how much is spent incarcerating adults who choose to use this relatively harmless drug. Where are the questions banning alcohol?

#3 – ban dog racing in MA
Yes. Although the job losses are a negative here I think entertainment value of watching dogs run in circles is not worth all of the illegal activities that come with it.