You can add Medibuntu to your sources list and install GoogleEarth from the
repositories. See: https://help.ubuntu.com/community/Medibuntu

It is the easiest way, but it does not give you the latest release. However,
once the dependencies are installed the latest release will install as well.

I did run across a website that discussed Medibuntu, so I'll give that a try
this weekend.

And Mike, I'll certainly try Ubuntu 9.XX when it's released. I've been holding
back with 8.10 and not adding more than is essential to this PC in anticipation
of release 9.XX.

Ubuntu 9.04 is to be released on April 23, 09. Not knowing your situation, it
may be better waiting for 9.04 and getting The Official Ubuntu Book 4th edition.
From what I understand that will be a major upgrade, lots of problems will be
fixed.

The Official Ubuntu Book was first published in August 2006.
2nd Edition July 2007
3rd Edition June 2008
Surely there will be a 4th edition.

Link to the publisher
www.informit.com/.../index.aspx\
t&searchorder=Relevance&query=ubuntu&pc_start=0&pc_size=10&searchgrouptype=All&s\
earchimprint=All

Have you tried the free download
http://www.ubuntupocketguide.com/