Watch Out!, You May Now Kiss the Bride, -and- ID Please

Watch Out! - Stockton doctor accused of letting man die to steal his Rolex
You May Now Kiss the Bride - Walmart hosts its first wedding
ID Please - DMV worker sold illegals licenses for $2,000

On this day in history: September 30, 1955 - Heading westbound on Highway 466 just outside Cholame, California, movie star James Dean is killed in a head-on collision with another driver. University student Donald Turnupseed was driving home in his Ford when he swerved into the oncoming lane, smashing into Dean's Porsche 550 Spyder.

Born on this day in history: September 30, 1924 - Truman Capote (1924 - 1984 ) Born in New Orleans, writer Truman Capote moved to New York City in 1942, working as an office boy at The New Yorker. His first novel, "Other Voices, Other Rooms" (1948), launched a literary career that's best-known for "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1958). Capote cultivated celebrity status and was famous for his jet-setting lifestyle.

Scripture of the Day: I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws. — Psalm 119:30

Video of the Day: Crazy Dog - submitted by Rhonda

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene in the Walmart parking lot while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Banking Trojan steals money from under your nose
Malware worldwide grows 15% in September
Microsoft makes business case for Windows 7

iPhone News
New iPhone app - I Am Safe

Law of the Land, Never Too Young, -and- Tap

Law of the Land - world's weirdest laws
Never Too Young - 10-year-old boy "held up store, fled on scooter"
Tap - NSW town 1st in world to ban bottled water

On this day in history: September 29, 1990 - The largest drug seizure in U.S. history occurs at a warehouse in the San Fernando valley: federal agents seize $10 million in cash and 21 tons of Medellin cocaine, worth $2 billion.

Born on this day in history: September 29, 1907 - Gene Autry (1907 - 1998 ) Born in Tioga, Texas, actor Gene Autry was a popular radio figure in the early 1930s. Credited with creating the musical Western, Autry is the only entertainer who boasted five stars on Hollywood's Walk of Fame.

Scripture of the Day: And anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. - Matthew 10:38-39

Video of the Day: Baby Dancing - submitted by Cindy

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this cat person at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! It was 106° Saturday afternoon. Early this morning, it was 57°! That is far too great a temperature swing for me!

Technology News
Microsoft's free anti-virus service ships today
Firefox 4.0 could feature apps tab

iPhone News
Tweetie 2 released for iPhone

To Protect and Serve, Weapons of Choice, -and- On the Job

To Protect and Serve - off-duty cop charged with fatal DUI that killed pastor's daughter
Weapons of Choice - Republican candidate raffles AK-47 at campaign rally
On the Job - woman celebrates 100th birthday—at work

On this day in history: September 28, 1994 - The world fails to end for a Borneo doomsday cult based in Sabah, after authorities arrest nearly 200 members, more than 50 of whom are children. The armed group was garbed in yellow robes and intended to perform a human sacrifice before the End Time.

Born on this day in history: September 28, 1972 - Gwyneth Paltrow (1972 - ) Born in Los Angeles, daughter of actress Blythe Danner and TV producer Bruce Paltrow, actress Gwyneth Paltrow made her stage debut at 5. In 1993, she won a string of roles, appearing in 1995 in "Seven" with Morgan Freeman and Brad Pitt. Paltrow gained superstar status in 1998's "Shakespeare in Love," winning an Oscar. In 2003, Paltrow married Chris Martin, front man for British rock group Coldplay.

Scripture of the Day: Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. — Psalm 119:133

Video of the Day: Cutest Baby Tiger - submitted by Danica

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this vehicle in the Walmart parking lot while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Laura was thoroughly delighted when she discovered this gift. I placed it on her computer table and covered it with papers. When she discovered it, she became incredibly gleeful.

Saturday, I grilled chicken parts and corn on the cob.




Sunday, I grilled London broil, mushrooms, red bell pepper, tiger squash, and red onion.







Technology News
New botnet may have infected half of Fortune 1000
EU seeks law to limit MP3 player volume

iPhone News
Battle Bears takes top spot on App Store
Gmail gets pushed officially for iPhone

Fighting Back, Forgive Them Father, -and- Stupid Criminals

Fighting Back - woman exits shower during burglary, shoots at suspect
Forgive Them Father - Kirk Cameron bashed for Darwin campaign
Stupid Criminals - neighbor steals couple's garden

On this day in history: September 25, 1980 - After spending the whole day drinking, Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham dies from alcohol poisoning.

Born on this day in history: September 25, 1968 - Will Smith (1968 - ) Born Willard Christopher Smith, Jr. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Smith began rapping as the Fresh Prince at the age of 12, creating a popular combination of pop and hip-hop in the 1980s. Smith reinvented himself as TV and film actor in the 90s, appearing in blockbuster hits such as "Independence Day," "Men in Black," and "I, Robot."

Scripture of the Day: You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. - Psalm 23:5

Video of the Day: Tractor Square Dance - submitted by Frank

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this vehicle in the Walmart parking lot while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

The Contract I watched this movie last night via Netflix' online viewing.
While vacationing with his teenage son (Jamie Anderson) in the wilderness, Ray Keene (John Cusack) discovers that a hired killer (Morgan Freeman) and his team of assassins are tracking the duo's every move. Can Keene take down a first-class hit man before his bullet finds its mark? Ned Bellamy, Corey Johnson and Thomas Lockyer also star in this action-driven crime thriller from director Bruce Beresford. I found the movie thoroughly enjoyable and suspenseful. The acting was very good. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys suspenseful action/adventure movies.

Untraceable I also watched this movie online from Netflix last night. In this tense thriller, cybercops find themselves grappling with a megalomaniacal, murderous psychopath who uses the Internet to show off his grisly handiwork, rigging his site so his remaining captives' fates depend on how many viewers it attracts. Led by FBI Agent Jennifer Marsh (Diane Lane) and working against the clock, can the team apprehend the technologically brilliant killer? Colin Hanks and Mary Beth Hurt also star. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and recommend it to anyone who enjoys suspenseful thrillers.

Technology News
Wireless industry battles Net Neutrality rules
Microsoft Office plays detective in new novel
Water detected on Moon, buried ice on Mars

iPhone News
iPhone app tracks your food intake by scanning barcodes
Starbucks releases an iPhone app

Fighting Back, Spokescreatures, -and- Pass the Ammo Please

Fighting Back - armed 91-year-old vet stops burglar
Spokescreatures - TV's funniest commercial characters
Pass the Ammo Please! - bullet-makers can't keep up with demand

On this day in history: September 24, 1988 - High on PCP and brandishing a shotgun, James Brown interrupts an insurance seminar next door to his business office in Augusta, Georgia and accuses the attendees of using his private restroom. The resulting 90-minute interstate pursuit ends only after police shoot out his truck tires. The Godfather of Soul ends up serving two years in prison.

Born on this day in history: September 24, 1896 - F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896 - 1940) Born in St Paul, Minnesota, writer F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote his first novel, "This Side of Paradise" in 1920. He married Zelda Sayre, an aspiring writer, and the two lived a legendarily extravagant life in New York City. They moved to Europe in 1924, becoming friendly with Ernest Hemingway and other expatriates, while Fitzgerald wrote "The Great Gatsby" (1925). In later years, Zelda was confined to a mental hospital and Fitzgerald wrote screenplays.

Scripture of the Day: What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted. — Proverbs 10:24

Video of the Day: Red Bluff, CA Woman Starts Debtor Revolt

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene in the Walmart parking lot while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Apple releases iTunes 9 update to fix bugs
Twitter phishing scam spreads via direct messages

iPhone News
Firmware 3.01 causes iPhones to go into a coma
AT&T states more MMS details for Friday
Pantone unveils color studio app for iPhone

For Your Dining Pleasure, To Protect and Serve, -and- Thou Shalt Not Steal

For Your Dining Pleasure - 10 dirty little restaurant secrets
To Protect and Serve - cops play video bowling during raid
Thou Shalt Not Steal - postal worker admits taking 3000 Netflix DVDs

On this day in history: September 23, 1950 - Congress passes the McCarran Act, also known as The Internal Security Act of 1950, overriding Harry Truman's veto. The act provides for severe restrictions on civil liberties, suspension of free speech, and placing of undesirable Americans in concentration camps. The act has never been repealed.

Born on this day in history: September 23, 1949 - Bruce Springsteen (1949 - ) Born in Freehold, New Jersey, rock musician Bruce Sprintsteen began performing with local groups in Asbury Park, New Jersey, before forming his own band in 1971 and signing with Columbia Records. Promoted as the new Bob Dylan, Springsteen hit it big with "Born to Run" (1975). He has performed at numerous rock benefits, such as Live Aid and Amnesty International.

Scripture of the Day: Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." - Luke 9:23

Video of the Day: 70 Double Blown GTO - submitted by Darin

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while passing the park on the way to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Google News suffers hour-long outage Tuesday
Mini SATA connector paves way for tiny drives
Super-human vision may be on the horizon

iPhone News
Tab Toolkit brings guitar tabs to iPhone
iTunes 9.0.1 now in Software Updates
Apple approved 1,400 iPhone apps in one day

Parental Uncontrol, God Is in Control, -and- Neither Rain nor Snow

Parental Uncontrol - couple arrested after leaving baby in car while they drink in bar
God Is in Control - evolution scientifically impossible
Neither Rain nor Snow - postal worker steals $200,000 in Best Buy rewards

On this day in history: September 22, 1979 - A two-to-three kiloton nuclear bomb explodes in the waters off remote Bouvet Island, near Antarctica. No government ever claims responsibility for the secret test.

Born on this day in history: September 22, 1958 - Andrea Bocelli (1958– ) Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli became blind at the age of 12, and later studied law, but decided on a singing career. His break came in 1992 when star opera singer Luciano Pavarotti recorded with him. International success followed.

Scripture of the Day: Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God -- this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -- his good, pleasing and perfect will. — Romans 12:1-2

Video of the Day: Sig P229 .357 SIG Muzzle Flash - submitted by Cap'n Jack

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart this morning while journeying to my office! Click to enlarge.

The iPhone Dream: Last evening, I had a dream. In the dream, I managed to install Windows 7 on my iPhone. It was wonderful. When I awakened and realized it was merely a dream, I was sad. I enjoyed my iPhone so much that I believe I shall curl up in my chair and take a nap—hoping to return to the dream!

Technology News
Microsoft Office 2007 SP2 due this week
Fake Twitter profiles harbor scareware

iPhone News
Crystal Cave Classic released for iPhone
Major, minor iPhone OS 3.1 problems and how to fix them
iPhone moisture sensors a little too touchy?
Poor battery life an issue with iPhone OS 3.1?

I Thought You Looked Familiar!, No Cameras Allowed!, -and- Unclassified

I Thought You Looked Familiar! - coworkers discover they're brothers
No Cameras Allowed! - Russian billionaire installs anti-photo shield on giant yacht
Unclassified - 20 most bizarre Craigslist advertisements of all time

On this day in history: September 21, 1915 With a winning bid of £6,600, Mr. Cecil Chubb purchases Stonehenge and 30 acres of land at auction. He donates the monument to the British state three years later.

Born on this day in history: September 21, 1967 - Faith Hill (1967-) Born in Jackson, Mississippi, country music singer-songwriter Faith Hill was one of the biggest female country stars of the 1990s. Her popular sound, beauty, and much-publicized marriage to fellow crooner Tim McGraw amplified her star power and produced enormous crossover success.

Scripture of the Day: "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." — John 14:21

Video of the Day: Dodge Charger Police Car Burnout - submitted by Amber

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Hal Moving to Windows 7: I have been using Windows 7 Professional 64-bit on my HP dv9500 notebook for several days, and I am thoroughly impressed with the speed and functionality. It is incredibly speedier than the 64-bit Vista that the notebook previously used. Windows 7 is substantially more robust and offers a variety of enhancements and improvements.

I shall be moving Hal to Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit today. During this process, the Web cam will be offline, and access to me via email will be addressed by my iPhone.

No-email Weekend: I have Outlook 2007 configured to remove email from my mail server when messages are downloaded to Hal (my main office system—an HP workstation). When I download messages from my mail server to my HP notebook, my iPhone, or any other system, the messages remain on the mail server.

Apparently, when I stopped at my office briefly Saturday morning, I opened Outlook 2007 on Hal and neglected to close it when I left the office. I determined this to be the case when I arrived here this morning. At home and elsewhere, it was a no-email weekend for me! Hundreds of emails greeted me when I arrived here this morning. This is commonplace. Unlike other Mondays, however, the email messages that awaited me this morning were all unread. Yikes! I have not gone through these messages yet. If you emailed me over the weekend and have not yet received a response, this will explain why this happened. I apologize.

Jury Duty: Yikes! and yikes! again! Unless the defendant in an upcoming court proceeding reaches an agreement with the court, I shall be reporting for jury duty in the morning! Yikes! If you see no blog here tomorrow morning, this will be the reason. I must call after 5 PM this afternoon to determine whether I must report or not. Wish me well!

Technology News
Microsoft sues 5 companies over malware ads
Microsoft to release free security software soon
LogMeIn can control some PCs, even when off

iPhone News
WSJ to begin charging for mobile content, including iPhone?

See You in Court, Hair Today Gone Tomorrow, -and- Walk Don't Run

See You in Court - parents sue Walmart after kids' bath photos fiasco
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow - Riverview man shaves daughter's head as punishment for shoplifting from Walmart
Walk, Don't Run - insane killer escapes during mental institution's field trip

On this day in history: September 18, 1946 - Harry S. Truman signs the National Security Act of 1947 thus establishing the CIA.

Born on this day in history: September 18, 1971 - Lance Armstrong (1971-) Born in Plano, Texas, cyclist Lance Armstrong began competitive cycling and triathlons at 13, setting early records. By 1998, Armstrong was winning the grueling Tour de France and went on to win it an unprecedented seven times.

Scripture of the Day: For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them. — Matthew 18:20

Video of the Day: Street Dodge Viper twin-turbo 1700hp drag race

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while browsing at Walmart this morning on the way to my office! Click to enlarge.

Windows 7 As a Microsoft Partner, I enjoy the availability of Microsoft software well ahead of its public release. I have had the various versions of Windows 7 for several weeks, pondering the migration of some of my systems to this OS. Last evening, I ran the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor on Phoebe (my HP dv9500 notebook).

The results indicated that there would be no compatibility issues. I installed Windows 7 Professional 64-bit as a clean install. (My experience has shown that clean installs of OSes are far superior to OS upgrades.) I am not given to intense emotional displays. After a few minutes of experiencing Windows 7, however, I found it completely impossible to restrain myself from falling to the floor on all fours, tossing my head back, and baying loudly at the 17" HP widescreen display!

After several hours of using Windows 7, I am eager to report that it is incredibly fast, visually stunning, and dramatically advanced technologically—compared with Windows Vista!

Windows 7 will be released late next month. I highly recommend moving to this new OS! By all means, download and run the compatibility advisor to determine whether any potential compatibility issues need addressing.

Technology News
Microsoft Web-based Office apps previewed
Facebook break leads to burglary suspect
Urban Hopper robot can leap over 25-foot walls

iPhone News
iPhone app promises discounts on prescription meds
transform your iPhone into a game controller

Fighting Back, Spare the Rod, -and- Snakes in the Grass

Fighting Back - student kills intruder with sword
Spare the Rod - woman arrested for spanking stranger's 2-year-old child
Snakes in the Grass - Hybrid man-eating pythons? Florida is on alert

On this day in history: September 17, 1939 - The Soviet Union invades Poland, to fulfill its end of the secret protocols contained in the Ribbentrop-Molotov Pact. They partition the country along pre-decided lines.

Born on this day in history: September 17, 1923 - Hank Williams (1923 - 1953) Born in Mount Olive West, Alabama, singer-songwriter Hank Williams began recording for MGM Records in 1949, and caused a sensation at the Grand Ole Opry with "Lovesick Blues," which hit No. 1 on the country charts. Called the "hillbilly Shakespeare," Williams left a legacy of 100 classic country songs.

Scripture of the Day: Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. — Psalm 23:4

Video of the Day: Canadian Bow Hunter Gets Attacked - submitted by Darin

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this vehicle parked at Walmart as I drove to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Comcast to bring TV to phones
Phone calling coming to Twitter
New scam adds live chat to phishing attack
Wi-Fi flowers sprouting across U.S.

iPhone News
Free app PandoraBox tracks down free and on-sale iPhone apps
iPhone OS 3.1 plugs 10 security bugs
Get an iPhone dock for almost nothing

Fighting Back, F for Fraudulent, -and- The Devil Made Her Do It

Fighting Back - naked man foils car thef, nabs suspect for Boulder police
F for Fraudulent - boy fakes kidnapping to hide bad grades
The Devil Made Her Do It - Satan-loving teen starts church fire

On this day in history: September 16, 1985 - Art Scholl, Hollywood's greatest aerobatics pilot, loses control of his Pitts S-2A biplane over the Pacific Ocean during the filming of "Top Gun." Before heading off to the Danger Zone in the sky, Scholl's last words were "I have a problem -- I have a real problem."

Born on this day in history: September 16, 1925 - B. B. King (1925 - ) Born into a sharecropper family in Itta Bena, Mississippi, musician B. B. King made his first recording in 1949, and toured the nightclub circuit for 30 years. In 1969, he released his biggest hit, "The Thrill is Gone." A model for rock guitarists, King was inducted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.

Scripture of the Day: How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver! - Proverbs 16:16

Video of the Day: "Ghost" Final Scene (Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore) - submitted by Danica

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this vehicle while driving past Walmart on my way to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Web 2.0 security risks scrutinized
Windows 7 works fine with Zune HD, iTunes 9
Dell to pay $4 million in fraud case

iPhone News
Bing brings virtual search to iPhone apps
Mouse steals cheese - iPhone OS 3.1 jailbreak released

Never Too Old, God Is in Control, -and- Burger Rage

Never Too Old - 97-year-old woman goes for ride on Harley
God Is in Control - 3-year-old girl falls 3 stories, has only minor injuries
Burger Rage - teen charged after "emergency" run to McDonald's

On this day in history: September 15, 1998 - Rap artist Coolio is arrested in Lawndale, California after being pulled over for driving a 1996 Hummer on the wrong side of the road. He was carrying an expired license, a loaded 9mm semiautomatic firearm, and a small quantity of marijuana.

Born on this day in history: September 15, 1946 - Tommy Lee Jones (1946-) Academy-Award-winning actor, director, and screenwriter born September 15, 1946, in San Saba, Texas. He began his career on Broadway and on television. He has become a Hollywood block-buster movie icon.

Scripture of the Day: What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! — Romans 6:15

Video of the Day: Safety Fail - submitted by Jay

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while browsing Walmart on the way to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

World's Greatest Burgers! Last evening, I produced what were easily the world's greatest burgers. At the very least, they were the greatest burgers I have ever encountered! I mixed a pound of ground sirloin (95% lean) with chopped pickled Jalapeños, minced garlic, sea salt, ground black pepper, crushed red pepper, and Pappy's seasoning. I created two rectangular 1/2-pound patties—shaped to fit the sourdough Colombo rolls. I grilled the patties until the bottom side was nicely charred and turned them. When they were nearly done, I split two Colombo rolls open and placed them face-down on the upper rack of the grill. I placed cheddar cheese slices atop the patties. At the table, we added mustard, mayonnaise, sliced red onion, and sliced tomato. Laura also added ketchup. They were incredibly delicious!

Jesse James I had a conversation with an acquaintance yesterday, during which to subject became Jesse James—the Old West outlaw, not Jesse James of West Coast Choppers, husband of Sandra Bullock. No doubt, we shall discuss that Jesse James at another time. My friend called Jesse James "a train-robbing murderer," and I strongly opposed this—saying that he was, instead, "a murdering train robber." My friend said, "Well, what's the difference? It's the same thing, right?" I said, "Not at all. If he were 'a train-robbing murderer,' he would be a murderer who—during the course of his murdering—occasionally robbed trains. The train-robbing would be secondary to his main avocation—that of murderer. In actuality, Jesse James was a train robber who—if necessary during the course of his train robbing, in order to avoid being captured or shot—occasionally killed people. There is a great difference!" Having been presented with this explanation, my friend quickly agreed that Jesse James was a murdering train robber.

Technology News
Google testing Fast Flip for Google News
Microsoft launches Bing "Visual Search"
Beware of pricier mobile Internet data plans

iPhone News
AT&T begins offering MMS
iPhone password bug discovered

Message in a Bottle, The Trashman Cometh, -and- The Merry Widow

Message in a Bottle - note found after 5 years adrift at sea
The Trashman Cometh - bike-shop owner fined for not producing waste
The Merry Widow - 107-year-old woman seeks 23rd husband

On this day in history: September 14, 1927 - Legendary dancer Isadora Duncan is killed in Nice, France when her long silk scarf gets tangled in the rear wheel of the convertible she's riding in.

Born on this day in history: September 14, 1879 - Margaret Sanger (1879 - 1966) Born in Corning, New York, birth control pioneer Margaret Sanger was active in the women's labor movement, believing control over childbearing was key to female emancipation. In 1921, she founded the American Birth Control League that became Planned Parenthood. In the 1950s, she helped fund development of a birth control pill.

Scripture of the Day: For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace. — Romans 6:14

Video of the Day: World's Largest Skateboard Ramp - submitted by Darin

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Hot -and- Wet! Friday, it was HOT! Click to enlarge.

This morning, it was WET! It rained during the night. This morning, as I drove to my office, the streets were wet, Mr. Nitro was wet, and it was 58°!

New Signs The new signs for the front window of my office arrived last Friday. I installed them at once. They are resplendent, and I anticipate wonderful response to them! Click to enlarge.




Technology News
Scareware ads hit NYT, Philadelphia Inquirer
802.11n Wi-Fi standard approved
Hacker pleads guilty to ID thefts netting millions

iPhone News
A bug fix for arranging apps on iTunes
iPhone OS 3.1 anti-phishing works - you just need to set it up properly
Apple working on new scheme to prevent iPhone theft

Law of the Land, Brave New Schools, -and- Heat of the Moment

Law of the Land - homeless man faces 5-year prison term for wearing handcuff keys
Brave New Schools - teacher fined $1450 for biting preschooler
Heat of the Moment - U.S. summer temperatures 34th coolest in history

On this day in history: September 11, 2001 - The single largest terrorist attack in history occurs when four commercial jetliners are hijacked, two of which slam into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York. Another plane is crashed into the Pentagon. 2,915 people are killed in the attacks, coordinated by Saudi terrorist Osama bin Laden. The civilized world is horrified; especially after seeing footage of Palestinians celebrating in the streets. For the first time in U.S. history, all flights are grounded throughout the country. All major government facilities are evacuated as well as many local facilities.

Born on this day in history: September 11, 1885 - D.H. Lawrence (1885 - 1930) Born in Eastwood, England. The son of a miner, novelist D. H. Lawrence found success with "Sons and Lovers" (1913). In 1915, he published "The Rainbow," and was prosecuted for obscenity. His novel "Lady Chatterley's Lover" was privately published in Florence, and copies were confiscated in England. Many films have been made from his fiction.

Scripture of the Day: In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. — Romans 6:11-12

Video of the Day: Witch Doctor Has 17-foot Hair - submitted by Amber

Imagine my surprise when I saw Elvis at Walmart during the journey to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Courtney Love bashes Guitar Hero on Twitter
Snow Leopard update fixes Adobe Flash issue
Faster AT&T 3G on the way--slowly

iPhone News
Rhapsody's iPhone app hits iTunes
iPhone OS 3.1 kills tethering hack dead

Stupid Criminals, Grin and Bear It, -and- Beach Rage

Stupid Criminals - robber returns to ask victim for date
Grin and Bear It - Walmart not happy with "People of Walmart" site
Beach Rage - man tosses jellyfish at teens

On this day in history: September 10, 1977 - Convicted torture-killer Hamida Djandoubi, an immigrant from Tunisia, becomes the last person executed by France when he is guillotined in Marseilles.

Born on this day in history: September 10, 1929 - Arnold Palmer (1929 - ) Born in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, golfer Arnold Palmer was instrumental in popularizing the sport. He won 91 tournaments in his career, playing in six Ryder Cups (1961 – 1973).

Scripture of the Day: The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out. — Proverbs 10:9

Video of the Day: Jet Boat Crashes - submitted by Frank

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this item offered at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Updates for iTunes and iPhone iTunes + QuickTime v.9 and iPhone OS 3.1 are now available. When iTunes starts, click on Help/Check for Updates. The iTunes + QuickTime and iPhone Configuration Utility download window will open. Choose Download and Install, and the files will download and install. Connect your iPhone to your computer, and iTunes will alert you that there is an OS update available. Choose to download and install.

[NOTE: I hope your update goes more smoothly than mine did! After downloading the OS 3.1 update, the process failed twice during the backup of my iPhone. The third time, it completed successfully. I have not updated Laura's iPhone yet.]

These are the bug fixes and improvements included in the iPhone OS 3.1 Software Update:

• Genius recommendations for Applications
• iTunes 9 support
- Genius Mixes
- Organize your apps directly in iTunes
- Improved syncing options for music, movies, TV shows, podcasts and photos
- iTunes U content organization
• Redeem iTunes Gift cards, codes and certificates in the App Store
• Display available iTunes account credits in the App Store and iTunes Store
• Browse and download ringtones wirelessly from the iTunes Store*
• Save video from Mail and MMS into Camera Roll
• Option to "Save as new clip" when trimming a video on iPhone 3GS
• Better iPhone 3G Wi-Fi performance when Bluetooth is turned on
• Remotely lock iPhone with a passcode via MobileMe
• Use Voice Control on iPhone 3GS with Bluetooth headsets
• Paste phone numbers into the Keypad
• Option to use Home button to turn on Accessibility features on iPhone 3GS
• Warn when visiting fraudulent websites in Safari (anti-phishing)
• Improved Exchange calendar syncing and invitation handling
• Fixes issue that caused some app icons to display incorrectly

Technology News
Apple iTunes 9 kills Palm Pre's sync, again
Mozilla patches holes in Firefox 3.5, 3.0
Home Sharing bug in iTunes 9?

iPhone News
Hands on with Apple's iPhone OS 3.1
New iPhone OS 3.1 reversing jailbreaks

That's Hot, Scents Insensibility, -and- The Fat of the Land

That's Hot - police arrest 4 in giant chili heist
Scents Insensibility - cops find man isn't dead, just a slob
The Fat of the Land - man says airline grounded him because of his girth

On this day in history: September 9, 1971 - 1,300 inmates riot inside the Attica Correctional Facility in western New York state, commandeering the prison and taking 40 guards hostage. The national guard stages an assault five days later, killing 42 people in the process (10 of them being captives).

Born on this day in history: September 9, 1941 - Otis Redding (1941 - 1967) Born in Dawson, Georgia, soul singer Otis Redding was inspired by Little Richard. His 1967 appearance at the Monterey pop festival led to success, but he died in a plane crash soon afterward. His biggest hit, "Dock of the Bay," was released posthumously.

Scripture of the Day: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9

Video of the Day: Thieves Clean Out an Apple Store in 31 Seconds

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

ALERT! Could this be the future of pizza ordering?

Technology News
Microsoft: Windows 7 not affected by latest flaw
Comcast to offer 100 Mbps service to businesses
Microsoft issues critical Windows patches

iPhone News
Silence your iPhone with iSilent
Very first "always on" software accepted by AT&T and Apple

Fighting Back, Smile for the Camera, -and- Stop Thief!

Fighting Back - 80-year-old man fends off would-be carjacker
Smile for the Camera - suspect poses following arrest for aggravated battery
Stop Thief! - Walmart employees beat woman to death for shoplifting

On this day in history: September 8, 1935 - Dr. Carl Austin Weiss confronts Senator Huey Long in a narrow corridor of the State House in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Weiss draws a .32 caliber pistol and fires one slug into Long's abdomen. The Senator's bodyguards immediately make Swiss cheese out of Weiss, riddling him with 61 bullets. Long is rushed to the hospital, where he dies two days later.

Born on this day in history: September 8, 1932 - Patsy Cline (1932 - 1963) Born Virginia Patterson Hensley in Winchester, Virginia, country singer Patsy Cline won the Arthur Godfrey Talent Scouts contest in 1957, and went on to record such hits as "I Fall to Pieces" (1960) and "Crazy" (1961). She died in a plane crash.

Scripture of the Day: For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. — Hebrews 4:12

Video of the Day: Big Snake in the Toilet - submitted by Cap'n Jack

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while on the way to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Labor Day Weekend It truly seems as if Labor Day Weekend passed incredibly quickly. While many dedicated their time to grilling, swimming, cavorting, scampering, tubing, fishing, traveling, etc., wefor the most part—lounged indoors, read, snacked, and expended very little energy. The cover remained on the new grill, and meals consisted mostly of nibbling upon snack items, corn dogs, and frozen pizza. The only exceptions were our attendance at the Harvest Christian Center Work Day on Saturday and the Fellowship Barbecue and Softball Game on Sunday. I photographed Sunday's event, and selected images will be available soon.

We read books by Randy Alcorn:

Laura read "Dominion." [Clarence Abernathy, an Oregon columnist and suburban middle-class black, is dragged into a world of inner-city gangs, drugs, violence and racial conflict. Clarence's anger at injustices he cannot control pulls him onto turf that becomes more dangerous by the moment. Encouraged by fellow columnist Jake Woods, Clarence forges an unlikely partnership with Ollie Chandler, a white homicide detective. As the case unfolds questions of racial prejudice and misunderstanding rise to the surface. As unseen eyes watch from above, the urban terror that has robbed Clarence of loved ones and uprooted his faith in God now threatens to unleash its deadly violence on him. In the footsteps of his best-selling novel "Deadline," author Randy Alcorn tells an exciting story filled with drama. The characters are so real you'll never forget them. In America's racially charged atmosphere, this story offers profound insight concerning our perceptions and conflicts, and points clearly toward the only true hope for racial reconciliation. As you become immersed in its riveting story, Dominion will make you laugh, cry and think.]

I read "Deception." [Ollie Chandler is a brilliant and quick-witted homicide detective with exceptional deductive skills and street smarts. He's a police department legend for his off-beat methods that solve crimes and coax confessions. But he's a risk taker and a rule-bender who drives his procedure-conscious superiors crazy. If not for his success rate, he'd have been squeezed out of the detective division years ago. When a Portland State University professor is found murdered in his home, Ollie is called in. Some strange indications on the professor's body suggest a peculiar means of death. Tests confirm something even more bizarre than Ollie suspected. A motive of revenge seems likely. But revenge for what? The murder mystery gets more complex the deeper Ollie probes.]

It was a very enjoyable weekend. I eagerly await another!

Technology News
WordPress blogs falling prey to worm
Restoration starts on one of oldest computers

iPhone News
Commodore 64 emulator app for iPhone yanked
Flikr has official iPhone app

Fighting Back, You've Got Rail!, -and- Surf's Down

Fighting Back - football star disarms armed teen on bus
You've Got Rail! - 4-year-old runs away 15 times to ride train
Surf's Down - Internet addiction center opens in Seattle

On this day in history: September 4, 1991 - 25 workers are killed when a fire breaks out at the Imperial Foods food processing plant in Hamlet, North Carolina. Most of the victims -- predominantly single mothers -- die of smoke inhalation. The facility's rear exit had been padlocked by management to deter employee pilferage. The Imperial plant had never once in its 11-year history been inspected by the state. The owner, Emmet Roe, later receives 19 years in prison for the 25 counts of involuntary manslaughter.

Born on this day in history: September 4, 1981 - Beyoncé (1981 - ) Born in Houston, Texas, Beyonce Knowles was the lead singer of R&B group Destiny's Child. After appearing on Star Search, the group was signed to Columbia Records, and their first release, "Destiny"s Child" (1997), was a huge success. In 2004, as a solo artist, Knowles won five Grammy Awards, and has also moved into acting.

Scripture of the Day: For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands. — Psalm 92:4

Video of the Day: KFC "Double Down" Replaces Bread with Fried Chicken - submitted by Amber

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while at Walmart this morning! Click to enlarge.

The package from Red Monkey Foods arrived today! For those who missed this subject earlier, Donna, the Project Manager for Red Monkey Foods, saw blog entries here in which I extolled the virtues of Red Monkey Foods. She sent me the package as thanks for my words of praise. In addition to the rubs shown here, an excellent Red Monkey T-shirt was included! If you are not familiar with Red Monkey Foods and, in particular, their fine selection of rubs, by all means go to Red Monkey Foods and order some of their fine products today! I promise you will be most pleased that you did! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Microsoft to issue 5 Windows patches next week
Snow Leopard install downgrades Flash

iPhone News
AT&T will enable iPhone MMS on September 25
Modern Combat Sandstorm arrived for iPhone

Phone Home, Shaddup!, -and- Shaddup!

Phone Home - Japan's first lady says she was abducted by aliens
Shaddup! - judge orders defendant silenced with duct tape
Shaddup! - Walmart shopper slaps crying child

On this day in history: September 3, 1971 - The office of Daniel Ellsberg's Beverly Hills psychiatrist is burglarized by Nixon's plumbers, led by CIA operative E. Howard Hunt. Watergate investigators later uncover a memo about the burglary addressed to White House domestic affairs adviser John Ehrlichman, predating the actual crime.

Born on this day in history: September 3, 1965 - Charlie Sheen (1965-) Born Carlos Irwin Estevez in New York City, son of Martin Sheen (Ramon Estevez), actor Charlie Sheen got his break in "Platoon" (1986). Notorious for battles with drugs and alcohol, Sheen was star witness in the Heidi Fleiss Hollywood madam trial in 1995. He currently stars in the hit sitcom "Two and Half Men."

Scripture of the Day: The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. — Psalm 23:1

Video of the Day: Redneck Inventions - submitted by Amber

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart this morning! Click to enlarge.

Last Weekend's Grill Last Sunday, I grilled Foster Farms boneless, skinless chicken breasts, John Morell smoked sausage and Polska Kielbasa, and corn on the cob. I marinated the chicken breasts for six hours in extra-virgin olive oil, granulated garlic, Pappy's seasoning, and crushed red peppers. It was a delightful meal.
Click on images to enlarge.

Other MealsMonday evening, I shredded the leftover chicken and cut the corn kernels from the two leftover ears of corn. I combined these with four packages of cooked ramen noodles, sliced white mushrooms (poached) diced red bell pepper, sliced celery, diced English cucumber, chopped green onions, ground ginger, extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, crushed red peppers, ground black pepper, and Red Monkey Mango Habanera seasoning.
This was a delicious meal. A quantity of leftovers followed Laura to Chico Tuesday morning.

Tuesday evening, I made curry rice and giant prawns. I cooked Jasmine rice—seasoned with minced garlic, fresh grated ginger, and whole dried Chile de Arbols—until 2 minutes from being completely done, added the prawns, and continued to cook for 2 minutes. It was wonderful.

Wednesday evening, I reheated the leftover John Morell sausages and served them with steamed zucchini and white potatoes.

This evening, we shall have the Oriental chicken casserole.

Tomorrow evening, we shall have something from the Sierra Nevada kitchen.
Each Friday, Laura brings home a special treat for our dining pleasure from Sierra Nevada. It is always scrumptious, and it is wonderful to have an evening free from cooking.

Technology News
Microsoft extends free time zone updates
Man tries to sell parents on Craigslist

iPhone News
Vonage app approved for iPhone

Homeland Insecurity, Stupid Criminals, -and- That Stinks!

Homeland Insecurity - snoozing NYC bridge guards fired
Stupid Criminals - man robs bank to get time away from nagging wife
That Stinks! - Bill targets pungent riders of Honolulu's transit system

On this day in history: September 2, 1945 - On the shelter deck of the USS Missouri in Yokohama harbor, 11 representatives of Emperor Hirohito sign the Instrument of Surrender.

Born on this day in history: September 2, 1966 - Salma Hayek (1966-) Born in Veracruz, Mexico, actress Selma Hayak got her break opposite Antonio Banderas in 1995's "Desperado." In 2002, Hayak produced and starred in "Frida," which made her the first Latin actress to be nominated for a Best Actress award. She is executive producer of the hit television series "Ugly Betty."

Scripture of the Day: I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High. — Psalm 9:2

Video of the Day: Bacon Is Good for Me - submitted by Jay

Imagine my surprise when I noticed this notice while driving to my office this morning!

The Giant Olive The Giant Olive has been restored to its former beauty. One can only hope and pray that the scofflaws do not return to deface it again!

Technology News
Windows 7 promises big improvements in battery power
Windows 7 will boot in as little as 11 seconds
Clear 4G WiMAX service launches in 10 new markets

iPhone News
Firmware 3.1 features

Stupid Criminals, Take the Money and Run Wild, -and- Animal Kingdom

Stupid Criminals - Ft. Lauderdale bank robber asks teller for kiss
Take the Money and Run Wild - teen lotto winner blows fortune on cars, cocaine
Animal Kingdom - dogs left home alone for 7 months

On this day in history: September 1, 1956 - Elvis Presley buys his mama a pink Cadillac.

Born on this day in history: September 1, 1957 - Gloria Estefan (1957-) Born Gloria Fajardo in Havana, singer Gloria Estefan fled Cuba when Castro gained power. In 1978, she married keyboardist Emilio Estefan, and their first Miami Sound Machine disco hit was "Dr. Beat" in 1980. In 1990, Estefan suffered a broken back in a car accident and had to make a grueling recovery.

Scripture of the Day: He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. — Psalm 91:1

Video of the Day: Spina D3 Test

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

The Giant Olive The Giant Olive on the outskirts of town quickly won the admiration of many and was the subject of a television report. Unfortunately, someone defaced the olive over the weekend. Thankfully, someone covered over the offensive material that had been painted on the olive. Laura took this photograph of the olive on her way to Chico.

Technology News
WPA-Secured Wi-Fi Hacked in 60 Seconds
Sony shipping Chrome Web browser on Vaios
Windows Mobile 6.5 phones coming out October 6

iPhone News
GTA Chinatown coming to the iPhone
Firmware 3.1 expected on September 17th