Animal Kingdom, Chopper Mom, -and- Fooled Again

Animal Kingdom - Kirshner Wildlife Foundation to appear on Jay Leno
Chopper Mom - Memphis woman threatens school employees with sword
Fooled Again - CNN falls for "World's First Hot Dog" hoax

On this day in history: February 26, 1974 - A U.S. Senate report reveals Ford Motor's involvement in Nazi Germany's war efforts, for which CEO Henry Ford received the Grand Cross of the German Eagle from Adolf Hitler himself. After the war, the car company was paid nearly $1M reparation by the U.S. government to compensate for one of its plants that was bombed within the Reich.

Born on this day in history: February 26, 1932 - Johnny Cash (1932 - 2003) Born in Kingsland, Arkansas, singer Johnny Cash, one of the greatest stars of country music, recorded his first hits, "I Walk the Line" and "Folsom Prison Blues," in 1956. In 1968, he married June Carter (1929-2003), a member of country music's famous "first family." Cash was inducted into the Country Music Association (CMA) Hall of Fame in 1980.

Scripture of the Day: This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. - 1 John 4:9

Video of the Day: Johnny Cash - "I Walk the Line"

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

Technology News
Virgin Media to offer 100 Mbps broadband
Obscenity-laden email leads to Facebook boycott
The nitty-gritty details of the Bloom Energy box
Bug causes Facebook messages to misfire
Firefox extension simplifies emailing on Facebook
Woman says boyfriend kidnapped her Facebook page
Blockbuster posts $435 million loss

TGIF, The Weather, and the Kirshner Wildlife Foundation
Perchance it is specific to my own personal interpretation of the Mobius Continuum; however, this week seems to have passed particularly slowly. It is Friday morning, yet it seems to me that considerably more than seven days have passed since the last Friday morning. Possibly, I have simply entered the Continuum obliquely and have been, therefore, unable to travel in space and time in a single movement—my travel having been significantly lengthened by the circuitous path created by my oblique entry into the Continuum. Hopefully, today will pass quickly, and the weekend will be upon us without undue wait.

Yesterday was certainly not the beautiful day it seemed to be early in the morning. By mid-morning, the sun had begun hiding behind clouds, the temperature did not reach expectations, light rain fell, and a power outage occurred in the late afternoon! Currently, forecasts show sunshine and 70° temperatures for Saturday and Sunday. I shall make my own weather forecasts when I awaken and peer out the window tomorrow morning—thereby producing a forecast of considerably greater reliability.

The Kirshner Wildlife Foundation will appear on Jay Leno early next month. See the lead story here today for details. The Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation is in Durham—near Chico—in Butte County. Equal parts wildlife sanctuary, educational park, and research center, the Foundation is home to a remarkable assortment of wild and exotic animals, many of them endangered species. A priority of the Foundation is to provide these animals with all they need to keep them healthy and contented. This involves giving them the best quality care: daily exercise, needed interaction, and the highest quality nutrition. In return, the public has the awe-inspiring opportunity to witness first-hand their beauty and value as a natural part of the world's ecosystems.

What Is Your Emergency?, Jaws of Death, -and- Hmmm

What Is Your Emergency? - Tracy, CA residents now must pay fee for 9-1-1 calls
Jaws of Death - terror as mall shark tank cracks
Hmmm - GM to kill Hummer as sales fall through

On this day in history: February 25, 1932 - Austrian Adolf Hitler granted German citizenship, to meet a "minor" technical requirement in order to run for president.

Born on this day in history: February 25, 1943 - George Harrison (1943 - 2001)
Born in Liverpool, England, musician George Harrison played lead guitar for the Beatles. After the group's break-up he made solo albums, including "All Things Must Pass" (1970). He also performed with other artists such as The Traveling Wilburys. He produced several films as well, such as Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979).

Scripture of the Day: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. - Matthew 22:37-39

Video of the Day: Parking WIN - submitted by Darin

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

Technology News
Google to start indexing Facebook pages
Bloom Energy announces "Bloom Box" fuel cells
With legal nod, Microsoft ambushes Waledac botnet
Teen gets 15 years for Facebook blackmail
Twitter hit with second phishing attack this week
New Windows software turns one computer into many

What a Beautiful Day this Promises to Be!
The sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, there is no wind, and the birds are singing! It is difficult to imagine this day is so wonderfully restorative when considering loathsome the weather has been of late, and this difficulty is compounded by the forecasts that currently call for rainstorms for the next four days! I shall enjoy this beautiful day while it lasts, and tomorrow I shall recall it with great fondness, as I huddle indoors and watch torrents of rain fall outside!

Fighting Back, Stupid Criminals, -and- Gun Control

Fighting Back - teacher tackles Colorado school shooter
Stupid Criminals - man sent 500 texts on stolen phone
Gun Control - NRA gun instructor accidentally shoots student

On this day in history: February 24, 1998 - A man "on a mission from God" hijacks a Turkish Airlines jet with 68 on board, claiming to have a bomb in his teddy bear, and attempts to divert it to Iran. Passengers put an end to his plans.

Born on this day in history: February 24, 1955 - Steven Jobs (1955 - ) California entrepreneur Steve Jobs co-founded Apple Computer in 1976. The company's Apple II computer helped launch the personal computer revolution in 1977. During his time away from the company in 1985, he helped bring Pixar Animation to world fame. He then returned to Apple, ushering in a new era of computing with his 2001 iPod and 2007 iPhone.

Scripture of the Day: We love because [God] first loved us. - 1 John 4:19

Video of the Day: MWC: Microsoft debuts Windows Phone 7 Series

Technology News
Adobe patches Download Manager hole
More TVs hopping onto the Internet
Experts warn of catastrophe from cyberattacks
Recognizr can identify you by your photo alone

Here is Laura with the two-month-old baby leopard that the Kirshner Wildlife Foundation brought to SNBC. She thoroughly enjoyed playing with the
leopard. Click to enlarge.

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Good News, Seasick, -and- Running with the Big Dogs

Good News - police inspector cuts crime by praying
Seasick - 350 become ill on cruise ship in Caribbean
Running with the Big Dogs - Arizona Great Dane is tallest dog ever

On this day in history: February 23, 1885 - The British hangman at Exeter Gaol tries three times to hang John Lee of Devonshire, for the murder of Emma Keyse. The trap refused to open. His sentence was commuted to life, and he was eventually released.

Born on this day in history: February 23, 1965 - Michael Dell (1965 - ) Born in Houston, Texas, entrepreneur Michael Dell founded Dell Computers as a college student, with the idea of selling custom-made PCs directly to customers. The company's success made Dell, at the age of 27, the youngest CEO of a Fortune 500 company in history. As of 2009, "Forbes" estimated Dell's net worth at $12.3 billion.

Scripture of the Day: Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our transgressions - it is by grace
you have been saved. - Ephesians 2:4-5

Video of the Day: HTC Hero Android phone controlling LEGO Mindstorms robot

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at a client's office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Getting a handle on celebrity Twitter IDs
Lenovo says businesses don't want slate devices
Many ways to activate Web cams sans spyware
Are Adobe products safe?
Report: 5,000 "overtly sexual" iPhone apps purged

Love Hurts, Stick to It, -and- Insufficient Funds

Love Hurts - man beaten with high-heel on Waffle House Valentine's date
Stick to It - device could create real-life Spiderman
Insufficient Funds - Citigroup says Fed ordered 7-day wait on withdrawals

On this day in history: February 22, 1994 - CIA agent Aldrich Ames charged with conspiracy to commit espionage. His betrayal, starting in 1985, resulted in the executions of a good number of important undercover agents within the Soviet Union. The CIA knew without doubt there was a mole in its ranks. And though by 1989 Ames had acquired unexplainable wealth from his spying and did very little to conceal the spying, he somehow managed to evade being caught for five more years.

Born on this day in history: February 22, George Washington (1732 - 1799) Born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, George Washington was elected the first U.S. President. A natural leader, he commanded the Continental army and led American forces through the Revolution. President Washington had difficulty coping with the unruly new government and, in 1796, announced he would not run again, setting a two-term precedent.

Scripture of the Day: There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. - 1 John 4:18

Video of the Day: Jaguar Underwater Swim

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while at a client's office! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Chinese "freelancer" wrote hack code
CA passes "Amazon Tax"
Wordpress.com outage blamed on router
Boom Box: An energy breakthrough?
Mozilla patches critical flaws

Money to Burn, Somebody's Watching You, -and- Somebody's Watching You Too

Money to Burn - tourist trapped on ski lift escapes death by burning cash
Somebody's Watching You - school-issued laptops used to spy on kids at home?
Somebody's Watching You Too - police push for warrantless searches of cell phones

On this day in history: February 19, 1998 - Lt. Col. Larry Wayne Harris (Aryan Nations) and William Leavitt are arrested in Henderson, NV for possession of the biological toxin anthrax, military grade, enough to kill an entire city. Their Mercedes is hermetically sealed by authorities and brought to Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada for hazmat.

Born on this day in history: February 19, 1940 - Smokey Robinson 1940 - ) Born in Detroit, Michigan, singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson formed the group The Miracles, which signed with Motown Records in 1958. Robinson composed and produced many hits, including "Shop Around" (1960) and "My Girl" (1965). He also served as the company's vice president from 1961 to 1988, earning him the title "King of Motown."

Scripture of the Day: Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. — 1 John 4:11-12

Video of the Day: Windows Phone 7 Series Features

Technology News
Steve Jobs disses Adobe Flash as "CPU hog"
Comcast launches online backup service
PleaseRobMe's Twitter account is shut down
Your Facebook profile: An invitation to crime?

Laura Will Pet a Jaguar!
Laura will be meeting Tuesday with a representative of The Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation to discuss SNBC's support of the Foundation. Laura, as you know, is the assistant to Ken. In addition to her duties as his assistant, she oversees donations. The representative is bringing a baby jaguar to the meeting. Laura is eager to pet the jaguar. I am jealous. Click to enlarge.

The Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation is a special place. Equal parts wildlife sanctuary, educational park, and research center, the Foundation is home to a remarkable assortment of wild and exotic animals—many of them endangered species. A priority of the Foundation is to provide these animals with all they need to keep them healthy and contented. This involves giving them the best quality care: daily exercise, needed interaction, and the highest quality nutrition. In return, the public has the awe-inspiring opportunity to witness first-hand their beauty and value as a natural part of the world's ecosystems. The Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation was founded in 1994. In all of this time, it have been an all-volunteer staff, with all monies going to feed, care, and house the resident animals. The animals have the potential to inspire minds and to change lives!

BURP!, Controlling the Substances, -and- Homeland Insecurity

BURP! - strongest beer in the world at 41%
Controlling the Substances - imitation pot as bad as the real thing
Homeland Insecurity - broad-new hacking attack detected on government, company systems

On this day in history: February 18, 2001 - During the Daytona 500, NASCAR phenom Dale Earnhardt crashes into the wall and dies instantly. His widow later files a lawsuit to keep his autopsy photos sealed, and Florida subsequently passes a law to prevent them from ever being released.

Born on this day in history: February 18, 1931 - Toni Morrison (1931 - ) Born in Lorain, Ohio, writer Toni Morrison came to national fame in 1987 with her novel Beloved (1987), which earned a Pulitzer Prize and an American Book Award. In 1993, she became the first black woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature. She then landed a Grammy nomination in 2008 for her narration of children's book Who's Got Game? (2007)

Scripture of the Day: I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither present nor the future, nor powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is ours in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 8:38-39

Video of the Day: Life Your Way

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

Technology News
ITC eyes Apple, RIM for possible patent violations
Philadelphia authorities target Facebook, Twitter after snowball fight turns ugly
Microsoft issues new Outlook social-network link

Late!, Food Fight!, -and- Oops!

Late! - woman charged with making false report after she invents car-crash story to keep job
Food Fight! - four charged in altercatiion at Chuck E. Cheese vending machine
Oops! - Oprah tries to wipe birthmark off Drew Brees' face

On this day in history: February 17, 1974 - Forty-nine people trampled to death at a soccer stampede in Cairo, after crowds tear down entry barriers to the Zamalek vs Dukla game.

Born on this day in history: February 17, 1963 - Michael Jordan (1963 - ) Born in New York City, basketball star Michael Jordan joined the Chicago Bulls in 1984, and was named the National Basketball Association's Most Valuable Player five times. He holds the record for most points in an NBA play-off game (63), and scored over 50 game points 34 times. He earned his nickname, Air Jordan, for his remarkable athleticism.

Scripture of the Day: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. - Romans 8:35-37

Video of the Day: Apple iPad Commercial (parody)

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

Technology News
Adobe updates Acrobat, Reader to fix PDF problem
Will 2010 be the year of mobile malware?
Facebook post from CA cop draws gun rights fire

Homeland Insecurity, Jaws of Death, -and- Just the Facts

Homeland Insecurity - TSA makes 4-year-old disabled boy remove braces
Jaws of Death - 60-year-old woman punches shark in face, saves self
Just the Facts - New York Times reporter probed for plagiarism

On this day in history: February 16, 1978 - The first computer bulletin board system goes live on an S-100 motherboard and CP/M, and a Hayes 300 baud modem. Ward Christensen and Randy Seuss's Computerized Bulletin Board System still kinda runs to this day, but the Internet has taken the place that BBS's used to have.

Born on this day in history: February 16, 1959 - John McEnroe (1959 - ) Born in Wiesbaden, Germany, and raised in New York City, tennis player John McEnroe is one of the most successful players in the history of tennis. He racked up 17 Grand Slam titles, 77 career single titles and 77 doubles titles, and is known for his intense playing style and his rivalry with Swedish tennis player Bjorn Borg.

Scripture of the Day: This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. — 1 John 3:11

Video of the Day: Roy Rogers - "The Sky is Crying"

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

Technology News
Microsoft makes iPhone the object of its derision
HTC releases three phones, readies for Windows Phone 7
Brain control interface becomes a reality

[While I Slept]
Laura called me from Chico and told me that she was hungering for canned asparagus. I stopped at Sav-Mor Foods on my way home at day's end, and there I was unable to find canned asparagus. I drove to Safeway. Roy Rogers was performing in the parking lot in front of Safeway. I remained there—transfixed by his guitar artistry—and later journeyed home. I neglected to shop for canned asparagus while at Safeway.

To Protect and Serve, Stupid Criminals, -and- School's Out!

To Protect and Serve - DUI cop breaks fast at Tiffany's
Stupid Criminals - robber tries to hold up closed bank
School's Out! - Utah considers dropping 12th grade

On this day in history: February 15, 1995 - The most wanted computer hacker in history, Kevin Mitnick, is arrested in Raleigh North Carolina for various offenses, one of which was breaking into security specialist Tsutomu Shimomura's computer.

Born on this day in history: February 15, 1954 - Matt Groening (1954 - ) Born in Portland, Oregon, cartoonist Matt Groening earned fans with his strip, "Life in Hell" (1980). Groening then landed an animation deal with the Fox Network in 1985, broadcasting his cartoons on 'The Tracey Ullman Show'. The popular shorts led to the spin-off "The Simpsons," which, in 2009, became the longest-running primetime series in the U.S.

Scripture of the Day: This is love: not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. — 1 John 4:10

Video of the Day: "Ballad of the Teenage Queen" - Johnny Cash

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while passing through Walmart yesterday! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Hands-on with Windows Phone 7 series
Sony Ericsson shows love for Android
A new wire twist on silicon solar cells

While I Slept

Last night, I dreamed that I bought a 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible for $75 at a yard sale. The parking break did not work, and Park did not keep the car from rolling, so I had to be cautious to park it slightly downward and against a tree to park it in a local park. A gathering of people asked me to perform a Johnny Cash song, and I did "Ballad of the Teenage Queen." Everyone said it was NOT a Johnny Cash song. I awakened thinking of that song.

Mark of the Beast, Catch a Wave, -and- Time Out

The Mark of the Beast - VA lawmakers block forced microchip implantation
Catch a Wave - 12-year-old surfer signs with major surfwear company
Time Out - 6-year-old girl handcuffed, committed for classroom behavior

On this day in history: February 12, 1789 - Ethan Allen dies in a drunken sleigh accident while crossing the frozen Lake Champlain, reminiscing with friends and rye. Much of the circumstance remains a mystery.

Born on this day in history: February 12, 1809 - Abraham Lincoln 1809 - 1865) Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States (1861-65), known for his eloquence as a spokesman for democracy and historically for preserving the Union during the American Civil War and bringing about the emancipation of the slaves.

Scripture of the Day: Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. — 1 Corinthians 13:6-7

Video of the Day: T-shirt War - submitted by Amber

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this wedding while passing through Walmart on the way to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
OpenOffice.org releases version 3.2
Web searches lead to murder conviction
Japanese astronaut tweets images from space
Google tweaks Buzz privacy settings

To Protect and Serve, Victor/Victoria, -and- Don't Try This at Home!

To Protect and Serve - PA turnpike commissioner quits over DUIs
Victor/Victoria - cross-dresssing politician blames transvestite alter ego
Don't Try This at Home! - man smashes 29 televisions in Georgia Walmart

On this day in history: February 11, 2004 - Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling arrested by the FBI. He is later found guilty of no less than 19 counts of conspiracy, fraud, making false statements and insider trading.

Born on this day in history: February 11, 1969 - Jennifer Aniston (1969 - ) Actress Jennifer Anniston achieved worldwide fame in her role as Rachel Green in acclaimed TV series "Friends" (1994-2004), for which she won Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild awards. She also appeared in film, including the cult classic Office Space (1999) and Marley & Me (2008), which broke box office records.

Scripture of the Day: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered,
it keeps no record of wrongs. - 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

Video of the Day: Tips and Tricks for Nexus One #4

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

Technology News
Owen Van Natta Resigns as MySpace CEO
Feds push for tracking cell phones
Google Buzz: privacy nightmare
Firefox add-on accused of malware comes up clean
Google to test ultrafast broadband to the home

Dellbert Tech Support
I have a new camera bag arriving tomorrow. It has a spot for a notebook. I am going to pack my Dellbert notebook with me when I am away from home and office. (I have an excellent, wide-screen HP notebook at home.) The Dellbert has been loitering about the office without direction.

I put Windows 7 Professional on it yesterday. None of the devices installed. I checked Dellbert tech support, and boldly I was told that the notebook was completely incompatible with Windows 7. The site showed it was incompatible with Vista also. Since I have been running Vista on it without issue, I knew this to be a fallacy.

I downloaded the Windows XP 3Com LAN drivers and installed them without issue. Windows 7 then took control without any intervention on my part and downloaded and installed the wireless drivers, other network drivers, sound drivers, multimedia display drivers, and a host of others automatically.

Obviously, Dellbert tech support is in dire need of tech support!

(NOTE: If you need ask why I call Dell "Dellbert," you will not find this article of interest.)

Turn Me Loose!, Heat of the Moment, -and- Survivor

Turn Me Loose! - 12-year-old girl sues 80-year-old husband for divorce
Heat of the Moment - daughter blames mother's flatulence for global warming
Survivor - man trapped for three days by deep snow in SUV

On this day in history: February 10, 1863 - Midgets Tom Thumb and Lavinia Warren married in a ceremony promoted and orchestrated by P.T. Barnum, reception tickets $75 (adjusted for inflation, $1250 in today's dollars). Commodore Nutt served as best man.

Born on this day in history: February 10, 1967 - Laura Dern (1967 - ) Los Angeles, California, native Laura Dern turned heads as David Lynch's ingénue in the cult hits Blue Velvet (1986) and Wild at Heart (1990). But Dern is best known for her role in the blockbuster hit Jurassic Park, which broke box-office records. Her recent role in the 2008 drama Recount won the actress a Golden Globe.

Scripture of the Day: If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. — 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Video of the Day: Classic TV Commercials - submitted by Danica

The Mystery Camerawoman Click to enlarge.
Yesterday afternoon, I noticed a woman operating a news video camera. She was positioned on the sidewalk in front of my office and had her camera pointed as you see in this image. I intended to approach her and ask her what she was doing, but a client entered my office, and by the time the client left, the camerawoman had gathered her equipment and was loading it into an SUV. The SUV had no markings on it of any sort. I shall solve this mystery and report my findings.

Technology News
Apple vs. Flash -- to the death?
Google's Buzz puts Facebook, Twitter on notice
YouTube adds parental controls
Log in with your face
26 Windows, Office holes patched in 13 bulletiins

Avalanche!, Howl!, -and- Homeland Insecurity

Avalanche! - skier survives 17 hours buried in snow
Howl! - coyotes on prowl in Manhattan
Homeland Insecurity - CA health department accidentally prints MediCal patients' Social Security numbers on envelopes

On this day in history: February 9, 1989 - Officials for the World Wrestling Federation testify before the New Jersey Senate that their matches are actually rigged. Say it ain't so!

Born on this day in history: February 9, 1944 - Alice Walker (1944 - ) Born in Eatonton, Georgia, poet and novelist Alice Walker is best known for her novels, notably The Color Purple (1982), which won a Pulitzer Prize and a National Book Award. It was made into a successful 1985 movie a 2005 Broadway musical. In 2006, she was inducted into the California Hall of Fame for her contributions to literature

Scripture of the Day: We ought always to thank God for you, brothers, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing. — 2 Thessalonians 1:3

Video of the Day: 1971 Dodge Swinger Commercial - submitted by Darin

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

Technology News
When does hacking become cyber warfare?
University worker accused of extorting student file sharers
Netflix says ISPs could threaten Web video

Laura Returns from Tucson
Laura returned from her vacation last evening. She arrived home shortly after 9 PM. The kitties and I welcomed her. We missed her greatly while she was away.

I prepared a delightful snack for her return: cooked and chilled crab leg meat, cooked and chilled large prawns, spicy cocktail sauce, and champagne. It was an excellent homecoming!

Stubb's Visits the Blog!
Many of you will recall when I blogged about some incredibly delicious barbecue pork sandwiches I made using Stubb's Spicy BBQ Sauce. The sandwiches were truly delicious, and the Stubb's sauce is amazing. We intend to recreate this treat very soon.

This blog entry caught the attention of Stubb's! A Stubb's representative commented on the post, saying that the sandwiches sounded delicious. They were!

Fighting Back, Fighting Back Two, -and- Daddy Dearest

Fighting Back - man high on medical marijuana taken down by black-belt flight attendant
Fighting Back Too - 94-year-old man fights off home invader
Daddy Dearest - man accused of waterboarding 4-year-old daughter because she would not recite her ABC's

On this day in history: February 8, 1994 - During an argument Jack Nicholson destroys the windshield of a car with a golf club, screaming "You cut me off!" Charges were dismissed on May 2 after the matter was settled privately. Nicholson did this one month before he was to host the annual Los Angeles Police-Celebrity Golf Tournament.

Born on this day in history: February 8, 1931 - James Dean (1931 - 1955) Born in Marion, Indiana, actor James Dean starred in only three films, including Rebel Without a Cause (1955). His untimely death in a car accident helped make him a cult figure who represented youthful rebellion. In 1965, he was the first actor to receive a posthumous Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Scripture of the Day: [Jesus said,] "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven." — Matthew 5:43-45

Video of the Day: Superstar Rajini Kanth Fight Part 2 - submitted by Frank

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

Technology News
Survey: Majority of people don't want an iPad
China shuts down hacker training Web site
BlackBerry has spyware too, researcher says

Stupid Is As Stupid Does, Toy Story, -and- Never Too Young

Stupid Is As Stupid Does - man injured when rocket strapped to his back explodes
Toy Story - 9-year-old boy busted for bringing 2-inch-long toy gun to school
Never Too Young - USC recruits 13-year-old quarterback

On this day in history: February 5, 1979 - Woodrow Bussey files suit against the Adolf Coors Brewing Company for failing to warn him that their product, Coors Beer, is an intoxicating beverage.

Born on this day in history: February 5, 1934 - Hank Aaron (1934 - ) Born in Mobile, Alabama, baseball player Hank Aaron is best known for breaking Babe Ruth's legendary home-run record. Known as "Hammerin' Hank," Aaron was baseball's Home Run King for 33 years, until it was broken by Barry Bonds in 2006. Aaron was granted the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002 for his contributions to baseball.

Scripture of the Day: The word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love. — Psalm 33:4-5

Video of the Day: Why No One Invades Switzerland - submitted by Phillip

Technology News
New "JIT Spray" bypasses best Windows Defenses
Facebook revamps home page
Microsoft readies Office 2010 upgrade program

Laura flying from Phoenix to Tucson




Laura's room at daughter Rachel's house




Laura's workstation




Granddaughter Parker blowing bubbles




Laura telecommuting

Armed and Dangerous, Say, "Cheese"!, -and- Somebody's Watching You

Armed and Dangerous - Miami-Dade trooper accused of writing hundreds of take tickets
Say, "Cheese"! - tourist lost on frozen sea saved by Web cam viewer
Somebody's Watching You - police want backdoor to Web users' private data

On this day in history: February 4, 1974 - Patty Hearst kidnapped.

Born on this day in history: February 4, 1913 - Rosa Parks (1913 - 2005) Born in Tuskegee, Alabama, civil rights advocate Rosa Parks was a community activist best known for refusing to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, which resulted in the famous bus boycott led by Martin Luther King Jr. (1955-6). Parks is honored as the "mother" of the civil rights movement.

Scripture of the Day: I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the
horn of my salvation, my stronghold. - Psalm 18:1-2

Video of the Day: Puppy vs. Cat - submitted by Danica

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

Technology News
Google, NSA may team up to investigate attacks
Microsoft investigates new Internet Explorer flaw
Government
warns of looming cyberthreat

Dinner, Breakfast, and Laura's Journey
For dinner last evening, I peeled a large head of garlic, kept the cloves whole, and sautéed with a white onion (cut into eighths) and a dozen crimini mushrooms (cut into quarters) in extra-virgin olive oil. I seasoned with Pappy's, ground black pepper, dried parsley flakes, and cumin. I parboiled a quantity of asparagus spears for three minutes and set aside. I sliced some of the London Broil from Sunday's dinner into very thin slices and set aside. When the onions were caramelized and translucent, I tossed in the meat and asparagus. I stirred quickly for three minutes—at which time we enjoyed a delightful meal.

This morning, I diced the remaining London Broil, seasoned it with Red Monkey Mango Habanera seasoning, ground black pepper, and dried parsley flakes. I sautéed this for five minutes. I added four beaten eggs. When the eggs were cooked, I added four slices of extra-sharp cheddar cheese and folded and chopped the mixture with a spatula. I warmed some Mission flour tortillas in the microwave oven for 30 seconds and took the food to the table. At the table, we added Casa Lupe hot salsa. It was a delicious breakfast.

Laura will be departing this morning—beginning her Tucson adventure. She will drive to the Sacramento Airport and fly to Tucson, AZ, where she will be met by her daughter, Rachel. She will return next Monday. The cats and I shall cavort with great abandon during her absence!

Once again, Laura must spar for her luggage!

Laura boarding the plane for the Phoenix connection.




2:27 PM: Laura is at the Phoenix Roadhouse.




A tall spicy one after my mile-long trek from terminal A to terminal B for my connecting flight to Tucson. No kidding. Google the layout of Sky Harbor Airport--YIKES...




The airport bar.

Jaws of Death, Animal Kingdom, -and- Get Ready to Rumble!

Jaws of Death - teen girl fends off shark with bodyboard
Animal Kingdom - N.J. man indicted for fatally shooting pet parrot for screeching during NASCAR race
Get Ready to Rumble! - N.Y. elementary school "fight club" unovered by student's father

On this day in history: February 3, 1959 - The Day the Music Died: A small plane carrying The Big Bopper (J.P. Richardson), Buddy Holly, and Richie Valens crashes near Mason City, Iowa, while en route to a show in Fargo, North Dakota.

Born on this day in history: February 3, 1956 - Nathan Lane (1956 - ) New Jersey actor Nathan Lane made his Broadway debut in 1982's Present Laughter. After a string of stage hits, Lane earned attention for his voice work in Disney's The Lion King, then became a big-screen star with his award-winning performance in The Birdcage (1996). He was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 2009.

Scripture of the Day: I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. — Psalm 59:16

Video of the Day: Buddy Holly on the Arthur Murray Dance Party 12/29/57

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

Technology News
"Nirvana Phone" treats phone as PC
Twitter reveals torrent scam details
Researcher warns of privacy risks with rogue iPhone apps

The Kids Are Alright, Mommie Dearest, -and- Sonic Broom

The Kids Are Alright - 7-year-old boy saves brother who fell through ice
Mommie Dearest - 9-year-old girl gives birth
Sonic Broom - neo-pagans get worship circle at Air Force Academy

On this day in history: February 2, 1852 - The first public toilet is inaugurated, located at 95 Fleet Street in London, by the Society of Arts.

Born on this day in history: February 2, 1882 - James Joyce (1882 - 1941) Born in Dublin, Ireland, writer James Joyce is best known for his novel Dubliners (1914) as well as his major work, Ulysses (1922), which was banned in the U.K. and U.S. until 1934. He revolutionized the novel form by abandoning ordinary plot for "stream of consciousness." His work continues to serve as a strong influence on modern writers.

Scripture of the Day: As it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." — 1 Corinthians 2:9

Video of the Day: Groundhog Day--The Real Phil--Phantastic Phils!

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

Technology News
Sony phone hides proper WinMo multitouch
New Facebook craze can violate terms of service
AT&T 3G version of Nexus One coming

The Weather and the People Who Forecast It
Punxsutawney Phil: 6 more weeks of winter

While I understand fully that meteorology is not an exact science, I am, nonetheless, amazed by the inaccuracy that is presented us by weather forecasters. Here is an excellent example: Laura shall leave Thursday for Tucson, AZ. I have been checking the weather predictions from various sources in order to determine what she might reasonably expect to encounter there during her stay. For several days, weather forecasts showed sunshine on Thursday and Sunday and rain on Friday, Saturday, and Monday. Yesterday, forecasts had changed and predicted rain throughout the week and into next week. This morning, however, forecasts call for sunshine from Thursday through Monday. The same weather forecasts show rain for Corning throughout the week. It is currently, however, sunny and dry. Whatever is one to think?

Got Internet?, Crime and Punishment, -and- Take the Money and Run

Got Internet? - FBI arrests alleged cable modem hacker, faces 20 years in prison
Crime and Punishment - inmates get time off sentences for taking yoga
Take the Money and Run - benevolent hackers poke holes in e-banking

On this day in history: February 1, 1964 - Governor Matthew Welsh of Indiana declares "Louie, Louie" as recorded by The Kingsmen (originally by Richard Berry & The Pharaohs) "pornographic." And while the FCC couldn't figure out the lyrics, the governor's move backfires by making the song one of the most covered titles in existence.

Born on this day in history: February 1, 1902 - Langston Hughes (1902 - 1967) Born in Joplin, Missouri, poet and civil rights advocate Langston Hughes helped found the cultural movement known as the Harlem Renaissance. After his signature poem, "The Negro Speaks of Rivers," was published in 1921, he became the voice of a generation of African-American writers and poets.

Scripture of the Day: Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. — Deuteronomy 6:4-5

Video of the Day: Obama State of the iPad Address

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

Technology News
Multitasking: Intel does, iPad doesn't
Microsoft tries to reinvent the bar code
Robots evolve to learn cooperation, hunting
Mozilla releases first Firefox mobile browser

Flesh upon the Grill
The weather yesterday was wonderfully suited to charring flesh upon the grill! It was sunny and warm, with no wind. I was eager to uncover the Weber and toss some flesh upon it, since foul weather has demanded it remain covered for several weeks. I was most eager to delight in the sight, sound, and smell of flesh charring on the grill!

Laura placed a spicy dry rub on a large London Broil yesterday morning. At 5 PM, I uncovered the Weber, engaged two of its eight massive burners, and tossed the large hunk of beef flesh upon it! While the flesh roasted, I moistened it with a mixture of 3 parts balsamic vinegar and 1 part extra-virgin olive oil. We delighted in the taste of this flesh—along with steamed mixed vegetables and garlic/Jalapeño mashed potatoes. A great quantity of the flesh remains for a later meal.

Following our evening meal, I ventured outside to cover the Weber—a cautionary measure intended to address the rain that was forecast to fall later that evening. As I picked up the grill cover and began to position it over the grill, I sensed motion nearby and turned to see the form of a large dog, silhouetted in the near darkness. It rose from a crouch in the nearby hedge and began walking toward me. His ears were fully back, his eyes gazed fixedly upon me, a menacing growl emanated from him, and viscous effluvia dripped from his drawn-back lips and fangs!

I was wearing sandals, otherwise I would have used my feet to show the beast that he was unwelcome. I maintained a fixed gaze upon him, lowered the grill cover loosely onto the grill, and picked up the only weapon nearby—a stainless-steel grill brush with a long wooden handle. I approached the beast and displayed the grill brush. I made it apparent to him that any interaction with me would not end well. The beast suddenly cowered and scurried off into the twilight. I returned to the house to enjoy "Las Vegas Jailhouse."