Meow!, He's Alive!, -and- Somebody's Watching You

Meow! - man fined for tossing wife's cat out of house
He's Alive! - man told he cannot get ID card because he's been dead for 14 years
Somebody's Watching You - Homeland Security tests mind-reading system

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, 1969 - Catherine Zeta-Jones (1969 - ) Born in Swansea, Wales, actress Catherine Zeta-Jones became known in the BBC TV series "The Darling Buds of May" (1991). She went on to international stardom in "The Mask of Zorro" (1998) and "Traffic" (2000), in which she co-starred with Michael Douglas, whom she later married.

Scripture of the Day: What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? — Luke 9:25

Video of the Day: Baby Porcupine Eats a Banana and Has Hiccups!

Hillary is bored! Apparently, being a Senator is not as exciting as (almost) being a Presidential candidate! Click to enlarge.

The Power Outage

I departed my office, stopped at Sav-Mor Foods to purchase grocery items, and arrived at our house. I placed my purchases on the dining room table and flipped the switch for the evaporative cooler to "on." There was no response. I quickly determined that the power was out throughout the house!

I scurried to Mr. Nitro, retrieved my Razr cellular telephone, and called Laura at her office. I apprised her of the situation and asked her to call Pacific Gas & Electric and report the power outage. I explained that the house was dark and oppressively hot and felt that she could better address the problem. She soon called and told me PG&E said they would send a repair technician at once. It was 3:45 PM.

At 5:25 PM, the power was still off, the house had become hotter, and no PG&E service truck was visible in the area. I called PG&E. The representative assured me that a repair order had been made. She said that the problem should be fixed "very soon."

Laura arrived at 5:55 PM. At 6:25 PM, the telephone rang, and Laura answered it. It was an automated call from PG&E. The call stated that the power would be returned sometime between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM.

At 6:45 PM, we departed to attend Bible class at Harvest Christian Center.

We returned to our house at 8:30 PM. The power had not been restored. Laura called PG&E. The representative told her that the repair technician was "working on the problem" and should have it fixed soon.

At 10 PM, a PG&E repair technician appeared at our door. He asked where the meter was, and I told him it was on the back of the house. Soon, he told Laura that another technician had disconnected our power that afternoon! He returned to his truck to communicate with headquarters. He returned to say that apparently the service technician who had disconnected our power had done so in error. He apologized greatly and restored our power.

Whew! I hope never to live through such a nightmarish experience again!

Fighting Back, Meow!, -and- If You Say So Joe!

Fighting Back - man protects family, blasts intruder with shotgun
Meow! - firefighter saves cat with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
If You Say So Joe! - Biden: Hillary a better pick than me

On this day in history: September 11, 1991 - Boxer Mike Tyson is arrested for raping Desiree Washington in an Indianapolis hotel room. After his conviction and three years spent behind bars, Tyson continues to maintain his innocence.

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: You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. - 2 Corinthians 9:11

Video of the Day: Sarah Palin Acceptance Speech, Part 5 (end)

Sarah Palin when she was a young girl. Click to enlarge.

Sep 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.

Are You One?, Open Wide!, -and- Hic!

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, Parking Wars, -and- You Talk Too Much

Fighting Back - 77-year-old man sends intruder out on a stretcher
Parking Wars - man saws car in half after it's booted in his driveway
You Talk Too Much - man arrested for refusing to hang up cellphone during flight

On this day in history: May 13, 1913 - The latest brainchild of Russian aircraft design genius Igor Sikorsky embarks on its maiden flight. The Grand, easily the world's most luxurious passenger plane, includes such innovations as upholstered seats, a balcony, and even a lavatory.

Born on this day in history: May 13, 1950 - Stevie Wonder (1950– ) Born in Saginaw, MI, musician superstar Stevie Wonder, a premature baby, was blinded by receiving too much oxygen in the incubator. In 1963, at 12, his single, "Fingertips - Pt. 2" became his first million seller. On his 21st birthday, Wonder renegotiated his contract to gain artistic control. In the 1970s, he released a series of innovative, commercially successful albums that fused progressive rock and soul, social commentary and ballads. Wonder was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.

Scripture of the Day: I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. - 1 John 5:13

Video of the Day: Bill Clinton: Voodoo Doll - submitted by Amber

Yikes! Click to enlarge.

Unsafe at any speed! Click to enlarge.

The wind that howled fiercely yesterday has abated a good deal. Hopefully, it shall soon be gone entirely. It is forecast to be 90 degrees today, 94 degrees on Wednesday, and 101 degrees on Thursday. A gentle breeze of an evening would be welcomed, certainly, yet this wind serves only to annoy.

Fighting Back, Heat of the Moment, -and- Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite!

Fighting Back - robber fatally shot by Miami jewelry store owner
Heat of the Moment - cold water thrown on Antarctic warming predictions
Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite! - NY subways invaded by blood-sucking insects

On this day in history: May 8, 1999 - Actress Dana Plato, who played Kimberly Drummond on Diff'rent Strokes, dies in Oklahoma of an overdose of Valium and Loritab. Just the previous day, Plato had appeared on the Howard Stern syndicated radio program claiming to be clean and sober.

Born on this day in history: May 8, 1884 - Harry S Truman (1884–1972) Born in Lamar, MO, 33rd President Harry Truman (1945–53) was elected to the U.S. Senate (1935–45), and gained national attention heading "The Truman Committee," which investigated wartime production. That gained him a spot as Franklin D. Roosevelt's new vice-president in 1944. When Roosevelt died, Truman became president, going on to win the close 1948 election. The "everyday American" surprised everyone by dropping the atom bombs on Japan, forming the post-war Marshall Plan and proposing the "Truman Doctrine" of Communist containment.

Scripture of the Day: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. - Romans 5:8

Video of the Day: Baraky - Barak Obama and Hillary Clinton in their own words! - submitted by Jeffrey

The many face of Hillary Clinton. Yikes! Click to enlarge.

Last evening, at Harvest Christian Center, a graduation ceremony for those who had completed The Lord's Table program supplanted the Bible class which is generally held on Wednesday evenings. Laura and I were among those who gave testimonies and received diplomas. It was a beautiful ceremony.

This weekend is the annual May Madness Corning Car Show. Friday evening, there will be burnouts (in front of the police station!) and a cruise. Saturday will feature burnout finals and a car show. It is an excellent event. If you find yourself near this area, I highly recommend that you attend this event.

Animal Kingdom, Stupid Criminals, -and- The Fugitive

Animal Kingdom - dog survives 8 days trapped in rubble
Stupid Criminals - man steals T-shirts while girlfriend applies for job
The Fugitive - woman caught 32 years after prison escape

On this day in history: April 30, 1993 - During a quarterfinals match in Hamburg, deranged tennis fan Gunter Parche sneaks up on Monica Seles and stabs her in the back with a boning knife. Parche was just paving the way for Steffi Graf, whom he was actively stalking, to take the top ranking from Seles. His plan succeeds.

Born on this day in history: April 30, 1982 - Kirsten Dunst (1982-) Born in Point Pleasant, NJ, actress Kirsten Dunst began as a child actor and successfully transitioned into adult roles. She has already garnered over 40 film and TV credits, including films like "Interview with the Vampire," at age 11, and a string of Hollywood productions, including "Little Women" (1994) and "Spiderman" (2002), opposite Tobey Maguire.

Scripture of the Day: And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. - Ephesians 4:30-31

Video of the Day: Python versus Alligator

There was a gala wedding reception in the gazebo at Corning Lake last
Saturday. Click to enlarge.

The best man takes the wedding limo on a beer run. Click to enlarge.

Hillary versus Obama - the Game: Play Hillary versus Obama!

It is cold this morning! Mr. Nitro's exterior temperature display indicated it was 43 degrees at 6:30 AM this morning, as I drove to my office. It is forecast to be 72 degrees this afternoon—up two degrees from yesterday. The weatherpeople predict warmer temperatures for the weekend. Good!

For dinner last evening, we had grilled pork loin chops and dirty rice. I cooked a package of Tony Chachere's Dirty Rice in the rice maker. Laura dry-rubbed two huge bone-in pork loin chops with Tony Chachere's More Spice and ground black pepper. She grilled them perfectly—charred slightly on the outside and moist and tender on the inside. While grilling, she sprayed them with a mixture of one part extra-virgin olive oil and three parts balsamic vinegar. It was a delightful meal.

To Serve and Protect, Waste Not, -and- I Robot

To Serve and Protect - citizen issues parking citations to cop
Waste Not - man fined for overfilling dumpster
I Robot - homemade "Bum Bot" patrols in Atlanta

On this day in history: April 23, 1985 - The Coca-Cola Bottling Company announces that it has irrevocably changed the formula for its flagship beverage, unveiling "New Coke." The company stands firm on its decision until public pressure finally forces them to reintroduce the original drink, exactly 79 days later.

Born on this day in history: April 23, 1936 - Roy Orbison (1936–88) Born in Vernon, TX, singer-songwriter Roy Orbison began playing at age 8 on radio stations, and had his first hit single, "Only The Lonely" (written for Elvis Presley), in 1960, followed by a succession of smash hits, including signature "Oh, Pretty Woman" (1964). Tributes to his music continue long after Orbison’s sudden death from a heart attack.

Scripture of the Day: Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. - John 4:23-24

Video of the Day: Funny Dogs - submitted by Darin

While driving to my office this morning, I spotted this enterprising
gentleman. Click to enlarge.

Rain! Just as the weatherpeople predicted, it rained yesterday. It did not rain much, and it did not rain for long, but it did rain. Everything is rain-washed and clean-looking this morning, the sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, and the birds are singing. The weatherpeople are predicting thunder showers and lightning today. It certainly does not look as if this forecast will materialize. Then again, only time will tell.

Somebody's Watching You, Weapons of Choice, -and- Crime and Punishment

Somebody's Watching You - online storage of medical records not covered by privacy law
Weapons of Choice - bill forces states to accept concealed-weapon permits from other states
Crime and Punishment - top court may allow states to execute child rapists

On this day in history: April 17, 1965 - The FBI Laboratory in Washington reports their inability to make out the vocals on the hit single "Louie Louie." Thus, the Bureau is unable to determine whether the record constitutes obscene matter.

Born on this day in history: April 17, Jennifer Garner (1972-) Born in Houston, TX, raised in Charleston, WV, actress Jennifer Garner began with bit parts on TV shows like "Spin City" and "Law and Order." In 2000, her work on TV show "Felicity" led to the lead role on spy drama "Alias," which made her a star. Garner married for the second time to actor Ben Affleck in 2005. Their daughter, Violet, was born the following November.

Scripture of the Day: Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. - James 4:17

Video of the Day: Teen Sets Record inflating balloons with his nose - submitted by Philip

Apparently, birds of a feather do not necessarily flock together! Click to enlarge.

The wind continues! The wind that has been plaguing us for over a week now continues today. It is forecast to be in the 80s today, so at least the wind should not be cold. Yesterday, it was cold!

Last night—while preparing to leave for Bible class at Harvest Christian Center, we watched Dick Cheney's speech at the Annual Radio and TV Correspondents Dinner. He explained "global warming," saying he observed that it was, in fact, getting warmer. He said he had no doubt that we are "...in the midst of a global warming—or, as I prefer to call it, spring!"

Heat of the Moment, Moms Gone Wild, -and- Be Afraid

Heat of the Moment - Weather Channel founder advocates suing Al Gore over "the fraud of global warming"
Moms Gone Wild - women brawl at Chuck E. Cheese over video game
Be Afraid - town to vote on Silly String ban

On this day in history: March 4, 1861 - The "Stars and Bars" is formally adopted as the flag of the Confederate States of America.

Born on this day in history: March 4, 1958 - Patricia Heaton (1958-) Born in Bay Village, Oh., actress Patricia Heaton made her Broadway debut in gospel musical "Don't Get God Started." In 1996, she landed the role of Debra Barone on hit sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond," which won her an Emmy. Heaton has now branched out into film.

Scripture of the Day: When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. - Colossians 3:4

Video of the Day: Cute Baby Tiger - submitted by Cindy

CHOMP! Click to enlarge.

This promises to be yet another beautiful day! The sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, and the birds are singing loudly.

I have suffered with a cold for the last several days. I am nearly recovered now, but it was an unpleasant bout. This morning, Laura exhibited symptoms of this affliction and is currently evaluating whether to go to work or stay home and rest. I pray that she is quickly fully recovered.

Update - 7:30 AM: Laura just called and said she is feeling better and is going to work. She prayed for healing (as did I, of course), and she said that the Holy Spirit prompted her to walk out in faith that she would be healed!

Weapons of Choice, Lost, -and- Brave New Schools

Weapons of Choice - turnpike toll-collectors' guns taken
Lost - man's stolen wallet found and returned after 46 years
Brave New Schools - student suspended for 10 days for taking vitamins

On this day in history: February 28, 1574 - Two impenitent heretics are burned at the stake in Mexico at a spectacular auto-da-fe comparable to those in Spain. The two are the first victims of the Inquisition in the New World, dying for their heretical crimes of Lutheranism.

Born on this day in history: February 28, 1940 - Mario (Gabriele) Andretti (1940– ) Born in Montona, Italy (now part of Slovenia), racecar driver Mario Andretti began in midget car racing, and soon emerged as one of motor racing's most versatile drivers. In a Formula One career (1968-82), he competed in 128 Grand Prix, winning 16. Andretti is the only person who’s won the Daytona 500 (1967), the Indianapolis 500 (1969, 1981) and the Grand Prix (1978).

Scripture of the Day: Where then are the gods you made for yourselves? Let them come if they can save you when you are in trouble! For you have as many gods as you have towns, O Judah. - Jeremiah 2:28

Video of the Day: Clockworks by Edward Barrett - submitted by Amber

"Sheesh, Rush is soo right - She does sound like Nurse Ratchett!" Click to enlarge.

A gentleman entered my office yesterday morning and inquired about Internet access. I gave him pricing for wireless and dial-up services, and he said dial-up would satisfy his needs and better fit into his budget. I reached into my desk and retrieved a SnowCrest CD. The man said, "I can't use CDs. My computer's too old to use CDs." I was disconcerted and asked, "What version of Windows is your computer using?" "It doesn't have Windows on it," he said. "A friend tried to install Windows a long time ago, and he said it wouldn't work." I thirsted for knowledge of the nature of his computer. I asked, "If your computer does not use Windows, what operating system does it use?" "I don't know what you mean," he said. "It is likely that your computer is not capable of accessing the Internet," I said. "Allow me to view this machine, and I shall evaluate it at no charge and advise you." He said he would bring it in next Monday morning. I am eager to see this creature and determine its nature. I shall sleep fitfully until this examination takes place!

Do You Want Fries with That?, Bad Parenting, -and- Wake Up!

Do You Want Fries with That? - Clinton's campaign spends $95,000 at low-end deli
Bad Parenting - baby left for 8 days without food or water
Wake Up! - laptops in sleep or hibernation mode most vulnerable to attack

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, 1732 - George Washington (1732–99) Born in Westmoreland County, VA, first President George Washington (1789–97) commanded the Continental army. With skill, patience and courage, he led American forces through the Revolution. A natural leader rather than thinker or orator, 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: Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he? - Isaiah 2:22

Video of the Day: Funny Cats Part 11 - submitted by Cindy

Here is a photograph of Wednesday's lunar eclipse. Click to enlarge.

It is still raining, and Mr. Nitro is still in the shop! Mr. Nitro's repairs should be completed today, and he should be ready to return home around 3:30 PM. I eagerly await swooping down upon him and returning him to my care. The weather will not so soon change. It is forecast to rain through the weekend and cease late Sunday evening.

The Final Frontier, Victor/Victoria, -and- Matters of Life and Death

The Final Frontier - total lunar eclipse to occur tomorrow
Victor/Victoria - University of Vermont adds "gender-neutral" bathrooms
Matters of Life and Death - pro-life rock stars "duped" by Amnesty International

On this day in history: August 27, 1990 - Blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan is killed when his Bell 206B helicopter crashes into a man-made ski hill near Elkhorn, Wisconsin.

Born on this day in history: August 27, 1910 - Mother Teresa (1910 - 1997) nun, missionary. She is the famous "Saint of the Gutters" who has devoted her life to caring for lepers and poor in India; awarded the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize.

Scripture of the Day: “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)

Video of the Day: Deer for Breakfast - submitted by Frank

2008 Democratic National Convention Agenda

7:00 pm Opening flag burning
7:15 pm Pledge of Allegiance to the U.N.
7:20 pm Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
7:25 pm Nonreligious prayer and worship with Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton
7:45 pm Ceremonial tree hugging
7:55 pm Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
8:00 pm How I Invented the Internet - Al Gore
8:15 pm Gay Wedding - Barney Frank presiding
8:35 pm Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
8:40 pm Our Troops are War Criminals - John Kerry
9.00 pm Memorial service for Saddam and his sons - Cindy Sheehan and Susan Sarandon
10:00 pm "Answering Machine Etiquette" - Alec Baldwin
11:00 pm Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
11:05 pm Collection for the Osama Bin Laden kidney transplant fund - Barbra Streisand
11:15 pm Free the Freedom Fighters from Guantanamo Bay - Sean Penn
11:30 pm Oval Office Affairs - William Jefferson Clinton
11:45 pm Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
11:50 pm How George Bush Brought Down the World Trade Towers - Howard Dean
12:15 am "Truth in Broadcasting Award" - Presented to Dan Rather by Michael Moore
12:25 am Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
12:30 am Satellite address by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
12:45 am Nomination of Hillary Rodham Clinton by Nancy Pelosi
1:00 am Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
1:05 am Coronation of Hillary Rodham Clinton
1:30 am Ted Kennedy proposes a toast
1:35 am Bill Clinton asks Ted to drive Hillary home