Fighting Back, Brave New Schools, -and- Fly the Friendly Skies

Fighting Back - concealed-carry permit comes in handy for woman
Brave New Schools - 9-year-old called drug dealer over cough drops
Fly the Friendly Skies - pilot tells passengers he’s not qualified to land plane

On this day in history: December 19, 1991 - Yankee's pitcher Steve Howe arrested for criminal possession of cocaine. It's merely one of NINE TIMES this has happened (and seven suspensions, plus one drunk driving arrest.)

Born on this day in history: December 19, 1980 - Jake Gyllenhaal (1980- ) Born in Los Angeles, Jake Gyllenhaal has been acting since childhood, and got noticed in "The Good Girl" (2002). Gyllenhaal has also appeared on the London stage.

Scripture of the Day: And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven. --Luke 1:76-78

Video of the Day: A Hole in the Hand - submitted by Danica

Imagine my surprise when I saw this surfer displaying his skill—without the use of water or surfboard! Click to enlarge.

Recommended Site:
David Louis Harter Photography - a showcase for the photography of David Louis Harter

Top Things for 2008!
Top Mug Shots of 2008!

Heat Wave! Well, it is not quite a heat wave, but 41° I (relatively) enjoyed this morning, while journeying to my office, is certainly significantly warmer than the 29° it was yesterday at that time!

The Reason for the Season, Weapons of Choice, -and- Fly the Friendly Skies

The Reason for the Season - Utah legislator tells retailers to say "Merry Christmas"
Weapons of Choice - Texas gun law battle brewing over "open carry" proposal
Fly the Friendly Skies - drug could cure jet lag

On this day in history: December 3, 1974 - Civil aviation authorities in England issue a warning to pilots to avoid a 40 foot long inflated pig. The aeropork had escaped its tether during a Pink Floyd photo shoot. Radar contact was lost at 18,000 feet.

Born on this day in history: December 3, 1948 - Ozzy Osbourne (1948 - ) Born in Birmingham, England, musician Ozzy Osbourne is known as lead singer of Black Sabbath, which recorded metal anthems like "War Pig"” (1971). He went solo in 1978, cultivating a social misfit image, then struggled with substance abuse. Osbourne regained popularity with reality TV show "The Osbournes," which featured his family.

Scripture of the Day: Therefore I tell you that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus be cursed," and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit. — 1 Corinthians 12:3

Video of the Day: Budweiser Rocky Horse SuperBowl Commercial - submitted by Jay

The eyes have it! Click to enlarge.

Recommended Sites:
David Louis Harter Photography - a showcase for the photography of David Louis Harter

I had a peculiar dream last night: I dreamed that a woman came to my office and inquired about engaging me to photograph her "...daughter and friends." I asked if this were a birthday party, and she replied, "No. They're practicing for a musical presentation at their school." We agreed upon the fee and a date and time. She gave me a deposit and departed. At the appointed date and time, I met the woman at a local park. She had over a dozen children with her. They appeared to be approximately 12 years of age. The children began performing, and I began photographing them. They danced and sang—performing the musical, "Oklahoma!" Their performances were stunning. I was amazed by their dancing and singing talents. Without benefit of music, they sang perfectly and danced flawlessly. When the shoot was completed, I said to the woman, "I am amazed by the incredible talent of these children." She said, "Well, they're just a bunch of kids playing around." I did not understand her attitude. When I arrived at my office and viewed the images on my computer, the costumes the children had worn were not displayed! Their attire was ordinary daily wear. Gone, also, was the performing grace and skill they had exhibited! Their poses were ungainly and child-like. I awakened.