AND—above all—survive being uprooted by an automobile!
These two trees were not prepared for being crashed into by an automobile. A tree, however, cannot be expected to be self-preparatory for such an event. After all, a tree is just that—a tree!
Photograph by Julie R. Johnson/Corning Observer
The two trees in this photograph were crashed into and uprooted by an 86-year-old female driver who—following a visit to a local hospital—was arrested for driving under the influence.
Such accidents often involve other drivers, passengers, or pedestrians—innocent bystanders.
In this instance, there were no other people involved. The trees were the only victims. The trees will receive replanting and good care. I have no doubt that they will survive.
This accident took place Thursday at 4 PM—a mere 50 yards approximately from my office. I happened upon the scene while driving home from my office. At the time, I prayed no one was injured.
People who drive while impaired by intoxication, lack of sleep, or distraction from cell-phone use, music selection, etc., are SELFISH! They think only of themselves and not of those whom they endanger.
Fighting Back - robber shot to death by intended victim Somebody's Watching You - man found hiding in ceiling over women's restroom Hic! - Pennsylvania professor charged with 3 DUIs in 8 days
On this day in history: August 29, 2005 - Category 3 storm Hurricane Katrina attacks the Gulf coast with 145-mph winds. Cities in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi are declared disaster areas. Parts of New Orleans are submerged, some residents are left to scramble to their rooftops awaiting rescue.
Born on this day in history: August 29, 1915 - Ingrid Bergman (1915 - 1982) Born in Stockholm, Sweden, actress Ingrid Berman was a popular romantic star in films like "Casablanca" (1942) and "Notorious" (1946). In 1950, she gave birth to the illegitimate child of director Roberto Rossellini, which created a scandal. Bergman won Oscars for "Gaslight" (1944), "Anastasia" (1956), and "Murder on the Orient Express" (1974).
Scripture of the Day: "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "You are the Christ." - Mark 8:29
Video of the Day: The Mentalist: Card Awareness Test - submitted by Amber
This creature is serious about nose picking! Click to enlarge.
BREAKING NEWS! - 8:30 AM - As I predicted!! John McCain has chosen Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate!
Christian One Liners: Don't let your worries get the best of you; remember, Moses started out as a basket case.
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited until you try to sit in their pews.
Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisers.
It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.
The good Lord didn't create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.
When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there.
People are funny; they want the front of the bus, the middle of the road, and the back of the church.
Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on your front door forever.
Quit griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn't belong.
If the church wants a better preacher, it only needs to pray for the one it has.
God Himself does not propose to judge a man until he is dead. So why should you?
Some minds are like concrete thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.
Peace starts with a smile.
I don't know why some people change churches; what difference does it make which one you stay home from?
A lot of church members who are singing 'Standing on the Promises' are just sitting on the premises.
We were called to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges.
Be ye fishers of men. You catch them - He'll clean them!
Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous.
Don't put a question mark where God put a period.
Don't wait for 6 strong men to take you to church.
Forbidden fruits create many jams.
God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.
God grades on the cross, not the curve.
God loves everyone, but probably prefers 'fruit of the spirit' over a 'religious nut!'
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.
He who angers you, controls you!
If God is your Co-pilot - swap seats!
Don't give God instructions -- just report for duty!
The task ahead of us is never as great as the Power behind us.
The Will of God never takes you to where the Grace of God will not protect you.
We don't change the message, the message changes us.
You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.
On this day in history: August 5, 1962 - In her Brentwood, California home, Marilyn Monroe dies in bed. Her death remains shrouded in mystery to this day.
Born on this day in history: August 5, 1930 - Neil Armstrong (1930 - ) Born in Wapakoneta, Ohio, astronaut Neil Armstrong was a fighter pilot in Korea and later a civilian test pilot. In 1969, he, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins led the Apollo 11 expedition. Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the Moon.
Scripture of the Day: And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will. - 2 Corinthians 8:5
Video of the Day: Stowaway Chicks
Apparently, Zeus was intent upon journeying to Tucson with Laura last weekend! As it happened, he remained home with me. Laura took these photographs of Zeus attempting to stow away in her luggage. Click to enlarge.
Stupid Criminals - shoplifter leaves 6-year-old daughter behind Hic! - RI police arrest man with .491 blood alcohol level Small Change - police arrest man accused of taking 42 cents from mall fountain
On this day in history: July 23, 1996 - Harry Morgan, Col. Potter on TV's M*A*S*H, is arraigned on charges of spousal abuse. LAPD officers responding to a 911 call at the couple's Brentwood, California home had discovered his wife Barbara bruised and bleeding from her face.
Born on this day in history: July 23, 1888 - Raymond Chandler (1888 - 1959) Born in Chicago, Illinois, writer Raymond Chandler was educated in Europe, and served in the Canadian army in World War 1. Back in the U.S., he created distinctive crime fiction, including The Big Sleep (1939) and Farewell, My Lovely (1940). In later years, Chandler alternated living in California and London.
Scripture of the Day: "Prepare chains, because the land is full of bloodshed and the city is full of violence." - Ezekiel 7:23
Video of the Day: Hulk vs Batman - submitted by Cindy
Laura recieved a birthday cake from her employer. She brought home the list of cakes available from The Upper Crust—a high-end bakery in Chico—and asked for my opinion. I suggested the coconut cake. She agreed and ordered it. She brought it home yesterday, and we enjoyed some of it. It is indescribably delicious!
Laura's birthday is on the 31st of this month. We shall celebrate it this weekend. One of her favorite culinary delights is grilled giant prawns. I believe I shall make this on Saturday. She is particularly fond of the manner in which I prepare them: I remove the tails (the heads have been removed by the butcher) and halve giant prawns—leaving them in their shells. I grill them—shell-side down—over a medium flame—using a fish grate. As they grill, I slather them with a mixture of extra-virgin olive oil, I Can't Believe It's Not Butter, lime juice, Tony Chachere's More Spice, and ground garlic. At the table, the meat pops easily from the shell and has the texture and flavor of lobster.
Next weekend, Laura shall depart for a vacation in Tucson, AZ, where she will visit her daughter, Rachel, son-in-law, David, and granddaughter, Parker. The cats and I shall be on our own. We may easily turn feral and run amok.
Are You One? - 6 most annoying coworkers Open Wide! - dentist accused of dropping tools down patient's throat Hic! - man charged with DUI in wheelchair
On this day in history: June 23, 1996 - A story by Watergate reporter Bob Woodward in the Washington Post reveals to the world that First Lady Hillary Clinton employed psychic Jean Houston to help her get in touch with her inner "Eleanor Roosevelt."
Born on this day in history: June 23, 1929 - June Carter Cash (1929-2003) Born in Maces Springs, VA, daughter of Ezra and Mother Maybelle Carter, June Carter belonged to the first family of country music. She and sisters Helen and Anita performed as the Carter Sisters. Carter performed with Johnny Cash and the two married in 1968. After semi-retirement, she began recording again in 1999, winning two Grammys. Carter died in Nashville, TN.
Scripture of the Day: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 6:23
Video of the Day: The Fly
This is Mr. Fly. I have taken his as an office pet. I have him tethered by a gossamer thread of 15 feet in length. He is able to fly about the office, but he cannot leave. Click to enlarge.
One of my brothers came to dinner Saturday. I made chicken and penne with artichoke hearts. I sautéed a head of garlic (peeled and cut into thick slices) and two medium white onions (julienned) in extra-virgin olive oil, seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice, Italian seasoning, and ground black pepper. When the onions were translucent, I added the contents of a can of quartered artichoke hearts, a red bell pepper (cut into 1/4-inch slices) and three previously-grilled chicken breasts (cut into 1/2-inch slices). I cooked a box of Barilla penne until underdone by two minutes. I drained the pasta and placed into a large pasta bowl, added the chicken and vegetables, tossed, and sealed securely with aluminum foil. I allowed this to rest for five minutes prior to serving. At the table, we added DiGiorno shredded Parmesan cheese. It was a delicious meal.
We watched "Identity." [Ten complete strangers are stranded at a remote desert motel during a raging storm and soon find themselves the target of a deranged murderer. As their numbers thin out, the travelers begin to turn on each other, as each tries to figure out who the killer might be. This spine-tingling thriller stars John Cusack, Jake Busey, Rebecca DeMornay, Clea DuVall and Ray Liotta.] This movie is fast-paced and certainly entertaining. It is unpredictable and disturbingly realistic. I recommend it to those who enjoy such movies. I enjoyed it.
My brother returned for dinner Sunday. I made dirty rice and red beans. I cooked a box of Tony Chachere's Dirty Rice in the rice cooker. I simmered a can of red beans in a large, covered sauce pan. When the rice was cooked, I added it to the beans and allowed this to simmer on low while Laura completed the grilling of two large pork loins. She seared the loins on both sides then moved to indirect heat and cooked for two hours—mopping every 20 minutes with I sauce I prepared from apple cider vinegar, molasses, brown sugar, honey, lime juice, cumin, ground black pepper, and Tony Chachere's More Spice. The pork loins took on a beautiful glaze from the mopping sauce and were succulent and delicious. Laura took photographs of the pork on the grill, and I shall feature one of her photographs tomorrow. The rice and beans were excellent.
We watched "The Brave One." [Oscar winner Jodie Foster stars in this dramatic thriller as Erica Bain, a New York City radio host who decides to take the law into her own hands after losing her fiancé in a brutal attack. With a determined cop (Terrence Howard) hot on her trail, Erica hunts down the assailants one by one, seeking her own brand of justice. Directed by Neil Jordan ("The Crying Game"), this gritty tale also stars Naveen Andrews, Mary Steenburgen and Nicky Katt.] This movie is fast-paced and entertaining. While it is predictable, this fact does not diminish its impact. The concept of a vigilante as a heroine—while certainly not politically correct—had me cheering her exploits. I enjoyed the movie and recommend it to those who enjoy such movies. There is a good deal of foul language in the movie, as it depicts criminals realistically.
Fighting Back - Pizza Hut driver suspended for shooting robber Daddy Dearest - drunken driver flees crash, abandons injured daughter That Sucks! - fans willing to donate blood to keep "Moonlight" on air
On this day in history: April 3, 1882 - Notorious outlaw Jesse James is shot and killed in his own home for a $5,000 reward. The assailants are Charles and Robert Ford, both members of the James gang.
Born on this day in history: April 3, 1924 - Marlon Brando (1924-2004) Born in Omaha, NE, actor Marlon Brando played his greatest stage role as Stanley Kowalski in Tennessee Williams's "A Streetcar Named Desire" (1947), also playing the screen version (1951), which earned four Oscars. Other award-winning films followed, including "The Wild One" and "On the Waterfront" (both 1954). Brando went on to a half-century of intense highs, self-indulgent lows and a tempestuous personal life. He is remembered as a consummate actor.
Scripture of the Day: It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality... - 1 Thessalonians 4:3
A change in the weather this morning brought unexpected snow. In order to reach my office, it was necessary to employ alternative transportation. Click to enlarge.
The caption for the above story is a lie! It is sunny, warm, there is no wind, the sky is blue and clear, and birds are singing! It is forecast to be in the low 70s today and in the high 70s by Saturday!
On this day in history: February 20, 1968 - The U.S. goes off the gold standard.
Born on this day in history: February 20, 1928 - Fred (McFeeley) Rogers (1928–2003) Born in Latrobe, PA, TV personality Fred Rogers became famous as host of "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood," a show for preschoolers that debuted in 1965. Rogers’ distinctive manner made him a national institution.
Scripture of the Day: Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. - Ephesians 3:20-21
Video of the Day: Big Dog Quadruped Robot - submitted by Frank
Happy Spring! Today is the first day of spring!
Spring is finally here! It appears that today will be a beautiful, sunny day. This is the forecast. While the weatherpeople are wrong more often then not, it appears—looking at the morning sky—that their forecast for today is correct. The rain that was forecast for yesterday arrived as a very brief sprinkling.
An installer from DirecTV is coming today to install an dual-feed HD dish and a DIRECTV Plus® HD DVR. With the latest DVR and HD technology rolled into one easy-to-use unit, the DIRECTV Plus® HD DVR will change the way you enjoy home theater. Images are sharper. Colors are brighter. Sound is crisper. And now they can be recorded. The DIRECTV Plus® HD DVR also features Media Share, allowing you to enjoy photos and music stored on your Intel® Viiv™ processor technology-based PC — on your TV.
Features:
High definition (mpeg-2, mpeg-4) and standard definition (mpeg-2) enabled. View the best in both HD and SD programming.
Record up to 200 hours of SD programming, up to 50 hours of HD programming. Watch your favorite shows on your own schedule.
Record two shows at once while watching another recording.
Series Link feature: Automatically record an entire season of your favorite shows, even if they change day or time.
One-touch record, auto record, manual record and bookmarks.
Pause and rewind live HD TV for up to 90 minutes. Control what you watch—back up, slow down or use instant replay.
Media Share capable: Listen to music and view photos stored on your Intel® Viiv™ processor technology-based PC.
2 satellite tuners for access to SD and HD DIRECTV programming.
Take advantage of DIRECTV interactive features like DIRECTV Active™. Get weather information, lottery results and horoscopes onscreen.
14-day Advanced Program Guide®. Search the channel guide for shows up to 14 days in advance.
Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound capable. Listen to superb theater-quality sound with additional hardware.
View and log Caller ID info provided by your local phone company.
Parental controls/locks: Enjoy peace of mind over what your children are watching by locking out objectionable programming.
This will be a fine companion to the Vizio GV47LF 47" LCD HDTV we installed Tuesday.
Soon, a Sony BDPS300 Blu-Ray DVD player will arrive. This unit will play Blu-Ray DVDs, of course, but it offers another exciting feature: It offers complete backward compatibility. We can still enjoy our current favorite CDs and DVDs, no matter the format. In fact, they look and sound better than ever before, because the BDPS300 can take our current DVD library and upconvert it to a near high-definition experience (1080p) via HDMI connection or 1080i via component video.
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, AR, 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: As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. - James 2:26
Video of the Day: fin d'été - end of summer - submitted by Amber
Hillary stares in horror as the vote count is reported. Click to enlarge.
Warm weather! It is forecast to be 70 degrees today and tomorrow and 74 degrees on Thursday! The weekend is forecast to be warmer yet! Praise God!
Gleep! - gecko inspires new kind of "Band-Aid" Brave New Schools - educators say evolution still "theory" Drop the Keys! - man gets 8 years for 19 DUIs, license suspended forever
On this day in history: February 20, 1971 - An erroneous warning is emitted on the Emergency Broadcast System causing a number of stations to go off the air, and others to completely ignore the alert (thus pointing out that many key stations would not react to any emergency broadcast over the system.)
Born on this day in history: February 20, 1967 - Kurt Cobain (1967-1994) Born in Hoquaim, WA, musician Kurt Cobain and friend Krist Novoselic formed rock band Nirvana (1986), which performed music dubbed “grunge.” Nirvana’s breakthrough hit "Nevermind" sold ten million copies, earning a reported $550 million in the U.S. alone. Cobain, who married rock singer Courtney Love in 1992, began using heroin and suffered in and out of treatment until his suicide by shotgun in 1994.
Scripture of the Day: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. - Galatians 2:20
Video of the Day: John Deere: No More Lumberjacks - submitted by Frank
Are you talkin' to me? What do you mean I lost?!?
Sorry, Mom!
For dinner last evening, I made penne with sun-dried tomatoes and grilled chicken breast. I placed into a stainless-steel mixing bowl sliced white onion, sliced white mushrooms, minced garlic, diced sun-dried tomatoes, ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, and Tony Chachere's More Spice. I sliced three grilled chicken breasts and placed into another stainless-steel mixing bowl. I cooked a box of Barilla penne until al dente, drained, and set aside. Laura sautéed the vegetables in extra-virgin olive oil. When done, she added the chicken and stirred. She then added the penne, stirred, transferred to a large pasta bowl, and stirred. At the table, we added DiGiorno grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red peppers. It was wonderful.
Ahoy! - Atlantic sailor sends mayday to pub Little People - hobbits not different species, say scientists Hic! - school-bus driver DUI, 4 times legal limit
On this day in history: January 14, 1998 - Jewish extremists Avigdor Eskin and Haim Pakovich are charged in a plot to catapult a pig's head containing the Koran into Jerusalem's Dome of the Rock mosque, in order to spark tensions between Jews and Arabs.
Born on this day in history: January 14, 1968 - LL Cool J (1968-) Born James Todd Smith in Bayshore, NY, hip hop artist LL Cool J (or, Ladies Love Cool James) released his first hit, "I Need a Beat," while still a teen. His fourth album, “Mama Said Knock You Out,” was a mainstream success, popular with mid-America and urban kids. LL Cool J has also pursued an acting career and, in 1996, launched a clothing line, FUBU (For Us, By Us).
Scripture of the Day: [You were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit,] who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory. - Ephesians 1:14
Video of the Day: Snoring Maggie - submitted by Laura
Monster Fish! The monster sun fish caught by W.N. McMillan of E. Africa, at Santa Catalina Island, California on April 1, 1910. The weight was estimated at 3,500 lbs. Click to enlarge.
Be Careful How You Vote in 2008! Morals! (Before 1960)
OLD VERSION: The ant works hard in the withering heat all summer long, building his house, and laying up supplies for the winter.
The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and plays the summer away. Come winter, the ant is warm and well fed.
The grasshopper has no food or shelter, so he dies out in the cold.
MORAL OF THE STORY: Be responsible for yourself!
-------------------------------------------
MODERN VERSION: (Today)
The ant works hard in the withering heat all summer long, building his house, and laying up supplies for the winter.
The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and plays the summer away.
Come winter, the shivering grasshopper calls a press conference and demands to know why the ant should be allowed to be warm and well-fed while others are cold and starving.
CBS, NBC, PBS, CNN, and ABC show up to provide pictures of the shivering grasshopper next to a video of the ant in his comfortable home with a table filled with food. America is stunned by the sharp contrast.
How can this be, that in a country of such wealth, this poor grasshopper is allowed to suffer so?
Kermit the Frog appears on Oprah with the grasshopper, and everybody cries when they sing, 'It's Not Easy Being Green.'
Jesse Jackson stages a demonstration in front of the ant's house where the news stations film the group singing, 'We shall overcome.' Jesse then has the group kneel down to pray to God for the grasshopper's sake.
Nancy Pelosi & John Kerry exclaim in an interview with Larry King that the ant has gotten rich off the back of the grasshopper, and both call for an immediate tax hike on the ant to make him pay his fair share.
Finally, the EEOC drafts the Economic Equity & Anti-Grasshopper Act retroactive to the beginning of the summer.
The ant is fined for failing to hire a proportionate number of green bugs and, having nothing left to pay his retroactive taxes, his home is confiscated by the government.
Hillary gets her old law firm to represent the grasshopper in a defamation suit against the ant, and the case is tried before a panel of federal judges that Bill Clinton appointed from a list of single-parent welfare recipients.
The ant loses the case.
The story ends as we see the grasshopper finishing up the last bits of the ant's food while the government house he is in, which just happens to be the ant's old house, crumbles around him because he doesn't maintain it.
The ant has disappeared in the snow.
The grasshopper is found dead in a drug related incident and the house, now abandoned, is taken over by a gang of spiders who terrorize the once-peaceful neighborhood.
MORAL OF THE STORY: Be careful how you vote in 2008
On this day in history: January 11, 1962 - In the Peruvian Andes, an avalanche buries 3,000 people alive as the volcano Huascaran erupts.
Born on this day in history: January 11, 1946 - Naomi Judd (1946-) Born Diana Judd in Ashland, KY, singer Naomi Judd and daughter, Wynonna are considered the most successful country duo of the 1980s, earning four Grammy Awards. In the early 1990s, Judd contracted chronic hepatitis, forcing her to retire. She returned to performing 10 years later. In 1993, Judd published bestselling autobiography, "Love Can Build a Bridge."
Scripture of the Day: "And a voice came from heaven: 'You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.'" - Mark 1:11
Video of the Day: Amazing Coordinated Samsung Dance - submitted by Jay
It is dry today. The rain has abated for now, but it is forecast to return tomorrow. There is no wind, and it is not particularly cold. This could well be a nice (given the season) day!
I grilled Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts on the indoor grill last evening. I seasoned the chicken with Tony Chachere's More Spice Seasoning and ground black pepper. While the chicken grilled, I brushed it with a mixture of extra-virgin olive oil and butter. The chicken was delightful—beautifully charred on the outside and moist and tender on the inside. Baked red potatoes and steamed sugar snap peas accompanied the chicken. Two chicken breasts remain. They shall be shredded and made into chicken quesadillas.
Tonight, we shall have the leftover beef enchiladas. I shall make guacamole and refried black beans to accompany the enchiladas.
Fighting Back - home-invasion suspect fatally wounded by resident To Serve and Protect - Parole Commissioner in state car nabbed at DUI checkpoint A Very Redneck Christmas - man accused of running over neighbor’s Christmas decorations, shooting him
On this day in history: December 10, 1993 - Adolf Hitler is baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in a ceremony performed inside their London temple. Mormons use this strange retroactive baptismal ritual to ensure ancestors or other relatives may join them in heaven.
Born on this day in history: December 10, 1830 - Emily (Elizabeth) Dickinson (1830–86) Born in Amherst, Massachusetts, poet Emily Dickinson published only two poems during her lifetime. After her death, sister Lavinia Dickinson published several more collections. Dickinson has now gained a cult-like following.
Scripture of the Day: "The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him." (Deuteronomy 18:15)
Video of the Day: Ferrari Drive - submitted by Frank
Here are some photographs I took this weekend of the native American gathering at the Sacramento River near here. Click to enlarge.
Recommended Site:Nikon Photographer - A free forum for all photographers (NOT just Nikon users!) and anyone interested in photography!
Saturday, Laura and I journeyed to Chico to Home Depot to replace the exploded microwave oven. I attempted to purchase the oven upon which we decided online but received a message that shipping to our Zip Code was unavailable. I felt that Corning was being slighted. When I entered the Zip Code for the Home Depot store in Chico, the same message appeared. Apparently, shipping is not available anywhere. That is interesting.
As we passed the Chico Mall, we noticed that the parking lot was completely filled. Not a single parking space was available. Yikes! When we reached Home Depot, however, there were several good parking spaces available. I parked Mr. Nitro in a secure area, and we strolled into the store. The microwave we desired was on display. There was none in inventory, however. We took the display oven and received a 10% discount. It is a beautiful 2.1 cu ft GE Profile oven with black body and stainless-steel front. It has enormous capacity and many features that were not present on the previous oven.
Last evening—following a delightful dinner of grilled London Broil, white onion, red potatoes, Jalapeños, and red bell pepper, we settled into our recliners and watched a Johnny Cash DVD. The new microwave made a wonderful batch of popcorn.
Fighting Back - couple threaten, unmask intruder Hic! - woman held after fifth DUI since May iSue - Apple may be sued over chemicals in iPhone
On this day in history: October 17, 1989 - The Loma Prieta earthquake strikes the San Francisco Bay Area, killing 67 and causing billions in property damage. The 6.9 magnitude temblor manages to collapse a long section of the double-decker I-880 freeway, smashing motorists between the two layers. Part of the Bay Bridge also collapses.
Born on this day in history: October 17, 1920 - Montgomery Clift (1920 - 1966) actor. He was best known for playing troubled heroes: "From Here to Eternity," 1953; "The Misfits," 1961.
Scripture of the Day: "The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them. My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare." (Psalm 25:14-15)
Video of the Day: Lawn Mower Racing 2006 Hog Happnin - submitted by Darin
Rain was forecast for today, but today is sunny and beautiful! Hopefully, the storm that was predicted has changed its course and not simply been delayed. Only time will provide the answer.
For dinner last night, I grilled top sirloin steaks, Jalapeños, and red potatoes on an indoor grill. It was too cold, wet, and windy for grilling outdoors. This was the first time I have used this indoor grill, and the results were surprisingly good. Now, when the weather does not allow grilling outdoors, we shall grill indoors.
On this day in history: September 5, 1975 - Manson Family member Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme almost assassinates President Gerald Ford with a .45 automatic in Sacramento, California. But Fromme is tackled by a Secret Service agent before she can remember to rack a round into the firing chamber.
Born on this day in history: September 5, 1940 - Raquel Welch (1940 - ____) actress, model. She starred in "One Million Years, BC," 1967; famous for her figure and sexiness; starred on Broadway in "Woman of the Year," 1982.
Scripture of the Day: "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'" (Matthew 28:18-20)
Video of the Day: Backspace - Unfold
Here is a recent photograph of Laura’s daughter, Rachel, and granddaughter, Parker. Click to enlarge.
Interestingly, while Laura and I were watching "Beach Patrol San Diego," a riotous encounter between drunken beach-goers and police was taking place on a San Diego beach. There is now renewed interest in banning alcohol from San Diego beaches. This is something we discussed while watching the show. It would seem—given that the majority of problems on the beaches involve alcohol—many problems would be avoided if alcohol were banned. See the second story in today's news links to read about this beach fracas.
On this day in history: August 30, 1859 - At the University of Göttingen, PhD candidate Albert Niemann isolates the alkaloid C17H21NO4 from leaves of the plant Erythroxylum coca. Niemann names his white, powdery discovery "cocaine" and observes firsthand its peculiarly strong anesthetic effect: "it benumbs the nerves of the tongue, depriving it of feeling and taste."
Born on this day in history: August 30, 1918 - Ted Williams (1918 - 2002) baseball player "The Thumper" was the last baseball player to bat over .400; had .344 lifetime batting average; Hall of Fame, 1966.
Scripture of the Day: “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household,” (Ephesians 2:19)
Video of the Day: World's Tallest Man Meets the Smallest
I went shopping at Sav-Mor Foods (conveniently, a mere block from our house) yesterday at 3:30 PM, following my departure from my office. (Since I arrive at my office by 7:30 AM each morning, I generally leave at 3:30 PM.) It was 107 degrees. I took my purchases to Mr. Nitro, unloaded them into him, and returned my shopping cart to the storage area. I noticed the numerous shopping carts abandoned throughout the parking lot by unthinking, uncaring, un-Christian miscreants and was reminded of Joyce Meyer's admonition that we should always return shopping carts. I have always done so, but Joyce's directive always comes to mind whenever I see that others do not do similarly.
As I walked back to Mr. Nitro, I saw a tiny, frail woman of perhaps 90 or more, obviously struggling in the extreme heat, returning her shopping cart. I took it from her and said, "I shall return this for you." "Thank you," she said, "and God bless you!" I replied, "You are certainly welcome, and may God bless you, as well!" Common decency and human kindness seem such simple matters, yet they are eschewed by so many. This is unfortunate, certainly.
Last Evening's Dinner: I sautéed julienned white onion and minced garlic in extra-virgin olive oil and sea salt. When the onion was translucent and caramelized, I added sliced white mushrooms, ground turkey breast, ground black pepper, ground cumin, Italian seasoning, and ground Cayenne pepper. I sautéed this, stirring often, until the turkey was cooked. I diced eight large tomatoes (beautiful, delicious, home-grown tomatoes from Corey's garden) and added them to the sauté pan. When Laura arrived home, she tended to the pan, stirring and blending the ingredients and flavors. I cooked a package of Barilla fettuccine for 9 minutes. (The package recommends 12 minutes, but I find that 9 minutes produces superior, al dente results.) I drained the fettuccine and added it to the sauce. Laura stirred it, and I took it to the table. I broiled some garlic bread that Laura had prepared. At the table, we added fresh grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red peppers. It was a delightful meal.
A quantity of leftovers followed Laura to Chico this morning for her lunch, and there still remains sufficient leftovers for another fine meal.
On this day in history: August 23, 1951 - Ninety West Point cadets are expelled for cheating, including most of the Academy's football team.
Born on this day in history: August 23, 1950 - Shelley Long (1950 - ____) actress. She played Diane Chambers on TV series "Cheers," 1982-87, winning an Emmy, 1983; films include "Outrageous Fortune," 1986.
Scripture of the Day: “When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.” (Psalm 94:18-19)
Video of the Day: Amazing President Facts - submitted by Cindy
Tonight, the Corning Olive Festival mixer will take place. Tomorrow, the Festival parade will take place. Saturday, the Festival will continue, with a cook-off competition, talent show, arts and crafts booths, food booths, games, entertainment, and awards at Woodson Park. For a schedule of events, consult the Calendar of North State Events.
Leftovers - dinner guest finds bodies in freezer Never Too Young - 11-year-old girl charged with DUI, 100-MPH chase Never Too Old - 84-year-old man opens BB-gun range for kids
On this day in history: July 6, 1944 - Fire breaks out at a matinee performance of the Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Baily Circus burning 168 people to death, and injuring an additional 250. The main tent had been waterproofed with wax thinned by gasoline.
Born on this day in history: July 6, 1946 - George W. Bush (1946 - ____) 43rd US President. He was the first Governor in Texas history to be elected to consecutive four-year terms.
Today's Video: Sam the Bellhop - submitted by Frank
Here is a recent photograph of Parker. Parker is the daughter of Rachel and David Gideon—Laura's daughter and son-in-law. Click to enlarge.
