Calling All Drunks, Brave New Schools, -and- Inked

Calling All Drunks - top 25 karaoke songs
Brave New Schools - NERF guns considered real firearms
Inked - Florida court to pay for Neo-Nazi "makeover"

On this day in history: December 7, 1941 - Japanese planes attack Pearl Harbor.

Born on this day in history: December 7, 1932 - Ellen Burstyn (1932 - ) Actress. Born Edna Rae Gillooly, on December 7, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan. Burstyn left home at the age of 18 to work as a model. In the late 1950s, she landed her first regular acting gig, as a dancer on television's "The Jackie Gleason Show," billed as Erica Dean.

Scripture of the Day: Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. - Philippians 2:9

Video of the Day: SNL - Tiger Woods - submitted by Danica

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

This Blog in the Wall Street Journal! Imagine my surprise (truthfully!) when I received a Google Alert indicating that this blog listed as a source for information concerning new channels to be offered via Roku in an article in the Wall Street Journal! This article includes a link to this blog, with the following caption for the link: "Other Articles Discussing this Story - A Match Made in Cyberspace, Matters of Life and Death, -and- To Protect and Serve (Posted on David Louis Harter's Blog at Mon, Nov 23, 2009 at 10:44AM)."

I promise I shall not allow the media attention and inevitable fame that shall follow in the wake of this change me or this blog in any way!

COLD! This morning is the coldest that it has been here in Corning since December 21, 1939! It was 24° during the night, and the temperature had increased to a mere 27° when I arrived at my office at 7:30 AM! Yikes! Interestingly, it is so dry that there was no ice on Mr. Nitro's windshield! Were there to be rain at these temperatures, certainly we would have snow—something that is experienced here very rarely;. The last snow here was ten years ago.

Technology News
Hands on with Google's public DNS
The best tech products of 2009
Apple ordered to pay Opti $21.7M for infringement

Fighting Back, You Are What You Eat, -and- Good Dog!

Fighting Back - woman, .357 blazing, chases intruders from home
You Are What You Eat - docs pull screws, nails from metal-eating man
Good Dog! - hero dog helps couple fight pirates of the Caribbean

On this day in history: July 14, 1881 - In the Sumner, New Mexico home of his friend Pete Maxwell, notorious outlaw Billy the Kid steps into a darkened bedroom and is shot dead by sheriff Pat Garrett. Billy's last words are "¿Quién es?" (Who is it?)

Born on this day in history: July 14, 1912 - Woody Guthrie (1912 - 1967) Born in Okemah, Oklahoma, folk musician and songwriter Woody Guthrie lived a hobo’s life until becoming a radio personality in Los Angeles in 1937. He wrote or adapted more than 1000 songs, including "This Land is Your Land" (1940). Guthrie spent his last years ravaged by Huntington's chorea.

Scripture of the Day: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." - 2 Chronicles 7:14

Video of the Day: Time-lapse Road Trip in a Hybrid - Texas to Canada - submitted by Darin

Icebergs in the Antarctic area sometimes have stripes, formed by layers of snow that react to different conditions. Blue stripes are often created when a crevice in the ice sheet fills up with meltwater and freezes so quickly that no bubbles form. When an iceberg falls into the sea, a layer of salty seawater can freeze to the underside. If this is rich in algae, it can form a green stripe. Brown, black and yellow lines are caused by sediment, picked up when the ice sheet grinds downhill towards the sea. Click to enlarge.

The air quality has improved somewhat since last Friday. The temperatures have dropped a bit from the triple-digit heat wave of last week. Today is forecast to be a mere 99 degrees! The winds abated over the weekend, and this greatly reduced threats from wildfires in California.

While shopping at Sav-Mor Foods Friday afternoon, I encountered the largest white mushrooms I have ever seen! They were 3 - 4 inches in diameter! I purchased a quantity of them. For dinner yesterday, we made stuffed mushrooms and steamed green beans. I cleaned the giant mushrooms and carefully hollowed them so that they would accept a goodly quantity of stuffing. Laura mixed hot New York-style pork sausage, Tony Chachere's More Spice, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, ground cumin, Italian bread crumbs, minced garlic, and shredded cheddar, jack, and pepperjack cheese. She stuffed the mushroom caps and refrigerated. I placed a package of green beans in a casserole dish, seasoned with Red Monkey lemon pepper seasoning, covered, and set aside. I made a marinade of extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, ground cumin, ground ginger, garlic powder, fresh lime juice, honey, and Red Monkey mango habanero seasoning. I marinated Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts for six hours. I grilled the mushrooms and chicken for 45 minutes over indirect heat. I brushed the chicken with the marinade every 15 minutes. I sprayed the mushrooms with a mixture of 1 part extra-virgin olive oil and 3 parts balsamic vinegar every 15 minutes. When the mushrooms and chicken were nearly done, I steamed the green beans in the microwave oven for 5 minutes. The dinner was incredibly delicious. The mushrooms were so enormous that we each were able to eat only one share a second. A mushroom and some green beans will follow Laura to Chico this morning. Two mushrooms remain for a meal later in the week. The chicken will be used for a meal later in the week. Laura plucked a nibblet from one of the breasts and declared it delicious.

To Serve and Protect, Call Jenny, -and- Just Say No

To Serve and Protect - deputies flatten tires on wrong cars
Call Jenny - Santa told to slim down for Christmas
Just Say No - passengers revolt after being told to fly on jet with its wing tip missing

On this day in history: November 5, 1975 - Logger Travis Walton is abducted by aliens near Snowflake, Arizona and is missing for five days. Aliens performed "various experiments" on the abductee. Walton finds the experience immensely lucrative as his experiences are chronicled in the mediocre book Fire in the Sky and a very bad film by Paramount.

Born on this day in history: November 5, 1926 -
John Berger (1926 - ____) painter, teacher, art critic. He began his career as a painter and teacher of drawing; became art critic for the "Tribune," and "New Statesman."

Scripture of the Day: "This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing." (Romans 13:6)

Video of the Day: History of LOL Cats - submitted by Chris

Recommended Site: Corning California Net - A free forum for Corning, California!

Recommended Site: Nikon Photographer - A free forum for all photographers (NOT just Nikon users!) and anyone interested in photography!

Friday evening, we had a Red Baron Special Deluxe pizza. I chopped two large Jalapeño peppers, and Laura sprinkled them atop the pizza prior to cooking it. These pizzas have been on sale at Sav-Mor Foods of late for less than $3.00 each!

Saturday morning, I made a delightful brunch: I sliced grilled London broil into thin pieces and sautéed in extra-virgin olive oil, with sliced red onion, minced garlic, and sliced Jalapeño peppers. I seasoned with sea salt, ground black pepper, and Red Monkey Cajun Spice. When the onions were caramelized, I added eight beaten eggs, stirring as the mixture cooked. Laura grated some cheddar cheese. When the eggs were done, I warmed some large flour tortillas, and we made breakfast burritos. They were wonderful.

Saturday evening, one of my brothers came to dinner. I made a pasta salad, with rigatoni, red bell pepper, fresh cilantro, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, celery, red onion, pear tomatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, sea salt, ground black pepper, and Red Monkey Lemon Pepper Spice. Laura grilled pork loin chops and Johnsonville Italian sausages. I made two dipping sauces—one mild, for my brother, and one very spicy, for Laura and me. It was a delightful dinner.

Sunday—following service at Harvest Christian Center—we had the leftovers from Saturday's brunch. Instead of tortillas, we used Mission tortilla chips and Casa Lupe salsa. It was excellent.

For dinner Sunday evening, I made a marinade with extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sea salt, cumin, and Red Monkey Lemon Pepper Spice. Laura cleaned and marinated eight large Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts. She grilled the chicken, red potatoes, huge white mushrooms, and large Jalapeño peppers. It was a wonderful meal. Some of the leftover chicken will find its way into the leftover pasta salad and be enjoyed after Bible class on Wednesday.

Heat of the Moment, Heat of the Moment, -and- Somebody's Watching You

Heat of the Moment - Gore climate theory savaged by hurricane expert
Heat of the Moment - think tank: withdraw Gore film's Oscar
Somebody's Watching You - overhead cam falls onto field in Seattle

On this day in history: October 15, 1917 - Dutch spy H21, also known as Mata Hari, is executed in Paris by a 12-man firing squad. The dancer, born Margaretha Geertruida Zelle, had slept with a number of high-ranking military officers from around the world and passed secrets along to the German high command.

Born on this day in history: October 15, 1924 - Lee Iacocca (1924 - ____) auto business executive. As president and chairman of the foundering Chrysler Corp., he secured the largest federal financial assistance ever given to a private corporation.

Scripture of the Day: "How great you are, O Sovereign LORD! There is no one like you, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears." (2 Samuel 7:22)

Video of the Day: Puehse Twins Skateboarding - Part 2 - submitted by Amber

The weather was beautiful over the weekend—particularly yesterday, when the temperature reached 72 degrees by early afternoon. The sun was bright in the sky, the sky was blue, the clouds were white and scattered, the wind was mild, and the birds were singing. It was necessary to engage Mr. Nitro's air conditioning (albeit on the lowest fan speed) while Laura and I journeyed to Chico.

The weather forecast for the next several days does not look particularly inviting. The forecast for next Sunday looks very promising, however. This is of significant importance, since next Sunday is Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.'s Oktoberfest celebration. I shall be photographing the event. Good weather would certainly be wonderful for this event!

Friday evening, we had another of the new DiGiorno Ultimate Pepperoni pizzas we discovered the week previous. This is a wonderful pizza with an impressive crust. I highly recommend it.

Saturday morning, I made a large frittata, with 10 jumbo eggs, 1/2 package of fresh baby spinach, three Jalapeños, a medium white onion, a head of garlic, six large white mushrooms, 1/2 pound of deli ham, 9 slices of medium cheddar cheese, and herbs and spices. It was delightful. We were able to devour only half of this wonderful meal.

Saturday evening, we had steamed broccoli and grilled chicken breasts and red potatoes. I washed and dried eight Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts. I marinated them in extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, sea salt, cumin, and Red Monkey Lemon Pepper Spice. The chicken marinated for six hours in a large zip-lock bag in the refrigerator. We turned the chicken every hour. Laura grilled the chicken perfectly, creating perfect grill marks on the exterior and brushing it while it cooked with the leftover marinade. It was a wonderful meal. We froze two large breasts and have four breasts in the refrigerator for a meal later in the week.

Yesterday, while Laura performed nursery duties at Harvest Christian Center, I created a marinade using extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Merlot, minced garlic, Red Monkey Cajun Spice, sea salt, and ground black pepper. I marinated two thick top sirloin steaks. When we returned from Chico, we spoke of grilling around 6 PM. The day quickly grew late, however, and dinner became snacking. The steaks will get tossed onto the grill tomorrow night. Tonight, Laura has choir practice, and we shall have the remaining half of Saturday's frittata for dinner.

Let's Trade!, Is It Art?, -and- Heat of the Moment

Let's Trade! - parents agree to swap children after birth mix-up
Is It Art? - Frenchwoman on trial for kissing painting
Heat of the Moment - judge rules Gore climate film requires guidance notes

On this day in history: October 10, 1994 - Evel Knievel is arrested in a Sunnyvale, California topless bar for beating 22-year-old girlfriend Krystal Kennedy back at the Comfort Inn motel.

Born on this day in history: October 10, 1813 - Giuseppe Verdi (1813 - 1901) composer He was the leading opera composer in the 19th c.; his works include "Rigoletto," 1851; "Il trovatore," 1853; "La traviata," 1853.

Scripture of the Day: "Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." (Proverbs 19:20-21)

Video of the Day: Monkey Dance - submitted by Chris

Here is a photograph I took of a friend's cat approximately ten years ago.
Click to enlarge.

I arose and walked to the bedroom window this morning and saw that it had rained during the night. I took a shaved and took a shower. I was dressing when the alarm clock awakened me! Imagine my disappointment when I realized I would have to do it all over again!

For dinner last evening, I placed three boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large casserole dish, seasoned with Red Monkey Cajun spice, layered sliced onions, fresh baby spinach, sliced red bell pepper, sliced white mushrooms, and three heads of peeled garlic cloves. I sprinkled more Red Monkey Cajun spice atop the vegetables, affixed the lid, and cooked for 40 minutes in the microwave, on power level three. It was delicious.

They're Here!, Eat Your Vegetables!, -and- Animal Kingdom

They're Here! - Tom Cruise building bunker for protection against alien attack
Eat Your Vegetables! - the boy who is allergic to almost EVERY food
Animal Kingdom - bear rescued from California bridge

On this day in history: October 1, 1993 - Richard Allen Davis kidnaps Polly Klaas during a slumber party in her Petaluma, California home and later murders the 12-year-old. The horrific ordeal transforms her father, Mark Klaas, into a major media figure.

Born on this day in history: October 1, 1935 - Julie Andrews (1935 - ____) actress, singer, author. She won an Oscar, 1964, for "Mary Poppins;" Oscar nominee for "Sound of Music," 1965; writes children's books as Julie Edwards.

Scripture of the Day: "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matthew 5:11-12)

Video of the Day: Passion of the Christ Music Video - submitted by Donny

This should be enough garlic to ward off any threat of vampire attack! Click to enlarge.

The weather cooperated fairly well for Friday's Homecoming Parade. While it was not sunny and not particularly warm, it was fairly pleasant and dry. This morning, there were a few rain drops on Mr. Nitro when I departed for my office. This is not a good sign.

Saturday, I made a scrumptious frittata with red potatoes, garlic (two heads!), white onion, Jalapeños, Habaneros, Italian sausage, spinach, eggs, pepperjack cheese, sea salt, ground black pepper, and Red Monkey Cajun spice. We ate only half and shall have the balance for an evening meal.

Saturday evening, Laura grilled large New York strip steaks, Jalapeños, large white mushrooms, yellow squash, and red potatoes. It was delicious. Laura grilled everything perfectly. The steaks had excellent grill marks and were charred nicely on the exterior and rare in the middle.

Sunday, we snacked on Mission Cilantro and Lime tortilla chips, homemade salsa, and Cuervo Especial margaritas and played Scrabble. Laura played well and won one game. It is not an easy task to best me at Scrabble play, and Laura is to be commended. While I was overall champion, her win is significant—given my Scrabble prowess. I would like to take this opportunity to assert there is no truth whatever to the rumor that I have taken steroids to enhance my Scrabble play! These rumors are patently untrue.

Sunday morning, while Laura tended to the nursery at Harvest Christian Center, I produced a very fine pasta salad—composed of large pasta shells, sliced celery, sliced radishes, diced red onion, garbanzo beans, diced red pepper, pear tomatoes, sea salt, ground black pepper, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and wasabi paste. I completed the salad at 11:30 AM, and it sat in repose in the refrigerator, awaiting dinner time. Laura marinated seven large boneless, skinless chicken breasts with extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, sea salt, ground black pepper, and Red Monkey Lemon Pepper spice. She grilled the chicken perfectly. It was succulent and moist and very flavorful. The salad was wonderful. A goodly amount of leftovers await later dining pleasure.

Alien Nation, Animal Cruelty, -and- Enjoy!

Alien Nation - Florida city accepts status as Scientology stronghold
Animal Cruelty - man beheads tame hotel duck
Enjoy! - hotel charges $14,500 for dessert

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

Born on this day in history: September 24, 1896 - F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896 - 1940) author. His writings and lifestyle epitomized 1920s "Jazz Age" in "The Great Gatsby," 1925.

Scripture of the Day: "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." (Hebrews 10:35-36)

Video of the Day: It's JerryTime: Jail Time for Jerry - submitted by Cindy

Summer has ended; a pall has fallen over the land. Sadly, summer has ended. Summer is my favorite season. It is a season filled with sunshine and warmth. I shall miss summer greatly for the next nine months.

Saturday morning, I made a large batch of salsa with 12 large Jalapeño peppers, 10 small Serrano peppers, 4 large habanero peppers, 4 medium Thai peppers, 4 medium Cayenne peppers, 1 large red onion, 23 large garlic cloves, 3 medium celery stalks, 1 large bunch cilantro, 16 medium Roma tomatoes, 4 medium cluster tomatoes, sea salt, ground black pepper, crushed red pepper, cumin, and ground Cayenne pepper.

We had planned to toss some baby back ribs on the grill Saturday. The rains came, however, and the roasting of the pig was set aside until Sunday. I simmered two racks of baby back ribs in Sierra Nevada India Pale Ale for an hour. I placed the ribs on the grill—bone-side down—on the rear of the grill, with the rear burner off and the front burner on medium-low. I slathered the ribs with Extra-hot Louisiana Hot Sauce and sprinkled with Red Monkey Cajun Spice Rub. Every 30 minutes, I sprayed the ribs with olive oil to keep moist. After an hour, I began brushing sauce on the ribs every 30 minutes. For the sauce, I used Jack Daniels sauce for a base. I added lime juice, molasses, ground Cayenne pepper, and Extra-hot Louisiana hot sauce.

When Laura returned from a meeting at Harvest Christian Center, she took over tending to the ribs. At 6:30, they were done. I made garlic (two heads), Jalapeño, and cheddar cheese mashed red potatoes to accompany the ribs. It was an incredibly delicious meal. Two bottles of Sierra Nevada India Pale Ale were required to wash the ribs and potatoes down into my gullet.

Help!, The Naked Truth, -and- Push!

Help! - 911 call leads to man's own arrest
The Naked Truth - VT town considers banning nudity
Push! - woman forced to give birth in jail cell

On this day in history: July 17, 1955 - Disneyland opens in Anaheim, California.

Born on this day in history: July 17, 1674 - Isaac Watts (1674 - 1748) minister He is regarded as the "father of English hymnody" and best known for "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," 1707.

Today's Video: Bull Run

For dinner last evening, we had giant shrimp with thick spaghetti. I peeled and cleaned a pound of giant shrimp and placed them in a stainless-steel bowl. I added extra-virgin olive oil, three tablespoons of minced garlic, three tablespoons of grated ginger, and Red Monkey Mango Habanera Spice. I placed the bowl in the refrigerator for two hours. I cooked a box of Barilla thick spaghetti until al dente, flushed with cold water to stem the cooking process, and set aside. Laura sautéed the shrimp, and tossed in the spaghetti when the shrimp were cooked. At the table, we plated and sprinkled with crushed red peppers, Parmesan cheese, and Progresso Italian bread crumbs. Laura was soon heard making guttural growling sounds. I took this to mean that she was enjoying the meal.

Free Ride, The Bionic Dog, -and- You've Got Mail

Free Ride - "freebies" new threat to music industry
The Bionic Dog - dog breaks new ground with his metallic paw
You've Got Mail - NV couple blame Internet for neglect

On this day in history: July 16, 1945 - First Atomic Bomb is exploded at Trinity, Alamagordo, New Mexico. The explosion yields the equivalent 18,000 tons of TNT.

Born on this day in history: July 16, 1907 - Barbara Stanwyck (1907 - 1990) actress. She starred in 80 films including "Stella Dallas," 1937; "Sorry, Wrong Number," 1948; and "The Thorn Birds."

Today's Video: Louis CK's Stupid Dog

On Saturday, we watched Bobby Flay compete on "Iron Chef America." The secret ingredient was American Kobe Beef. During commercial breaks, Laura applied a Red Monkey Savory Steak rub to two giant rib eye steaks. Watching the beef being cooked and eaten on the television program heightened our senses and caused us to salivate uncontrollably in anticipation of our steaks. Laura grilled them perfectly. They were charred on the exterior and rare inside. She also grilled red potatoes, Jalapeños, white mushrooms, and zucchini. It was an excellent meal.

Yesterday, I prepared a pot of Cajun black beans. I simmered sliced white onion, whole garlic cloves (one head), sliced celery, sliced Jalapeños, and diced tomatoes in Sierra Nevada Pale Ale. I seasoned the mixture with Red Monkey Cajun Spice, ground black pepper, ground Cayenne pepper, cumin, and sea salt. After this had simmered for two hours, Laura added a can of black beans, stirred, and turned the burner to low. She applied a Red Monkey Mango Habanera rub to three large pork loin chops and pan-seared them. She added a bit of Almaden Chardonnay to steam and maintain moistness near the end of the cooking process. I made a dipping sauce with catsup, blackberry preserves, two types of hot sauce, molasses, rice wine vinegar, and ground Cayenne pepper. It was a delightful meal.

Shut Up!, No Q, -and- Ouch!

Shut Up! - Web DJs silenced by royalty fees
No Q - mayor outlaws grilling after 8 PM
Ouch! - man survives pickup rolling over his head

On this day in history: July 13, 1994 - Tonya Harding's ex-husband, Jeff Gillooly, is sentenced in Portland, Oregon, to two years in prison for his role in the attack on Nancy Kerrigan. He serves six months.

Born on this day in history: July 13, 1942 - Harrison Ford (1942 - ____) actor. He is best known for his roles as Hans Solo in "Star Wars" films and Indiana Jones; received Oscar nomination for "The Witness," 1985.

Today's Video: Serious Frog Jumpin' in Calaveras County

Happy Friday the 13th! There is nothing one need fear today. Today is not unlike any other day. The fact that the 13th of the month falls on a Friday has absolutely no significance whatever. Superstition is something embraced by those who have no faith in God.

For dinner last evening, I prepared a delightful salad. It contained butter lettuce, diced red bell pepper, diced Jalapeño pepper, diced red onion, chopped celery, diced red onion, red tomatoes, yellow tomatoes, bacon, Red Monkey Lemon Pepper Spice, and wasabi sesame seeds. It was wonderful. It was large. It is all gone!

Bad Cop/Good Cop, Armed and Stupid, -and- Getting Air

Bad Cop/Good Cop - fake officer pulls over real one
Armed and Stupid - anti-gun activist makes illegal gun purchase
Getting Air - balloons carry man in lawnchair 193 miles

On this day in history: July 11, 1979 - The derelict space station Skylab finally returns to Earth, ignominiously breaking into 500 separate fragments which are swallowed by the Indian Ocean. That is, except for the ones which crash into Woorlba Sheep Station, near Balladonia in Western Australia. Shortly thereafter, President Jimmy Carter telephones the prime minister of that country to apologize for scattering NASA litter on his nation.

Born on this day in history: July 11, 1897 - Blind Lemon Johnson (c. 1897 - 1930) blues singer Blind from birth, "the King of the Country Blues" recorded during the 1920s; died in Chicago, lost in the streets during a snowstorm.

Today's Video: Black Sabbath - "Paranoid" (1970)

Along the route to my office this morning, I encountered people harvesting mushrooms. The mushrooms were very large. It must be the fertilizer they use that is producing such large results!

It is cold this morning! The weatherpeople are predicting rain! It certainly looks dismal outside, and the possibility that it might rain appears high. Yikes! Quick, someone alert Al Gore!

For dinner last evening, we had Johnsonville brats: I sprayed a sauté pan with Pam and arranged six Johnsonville brats. I peeled a head of garlic and scattered the cloves over the brats. I sliced a large white onion into six sections and scattered over the brats and garlic. I sliced a large zucchini on the bias and layered atop the onions, brats, and garlic. I sliced four large mushrooms into quarters and layered atop the zucchini, onions, brats, and garlic. I liberally seasoned with Red Monkey Cajun Spice. I sliced a large tomato into six thin slices, layered atop the mushrooms, zucchini, onions, brats, and garlic and seasoned with sea salt and ground black pepper. Laura placed the sauté pan on the stove and set the burner to medium. Ten minutes later, she reduced the heat to medium-low and continued to cook for twenty minutes. Spicy brown mustard was used as a condiment. The meal was delightful.

Tonight, we shall have some of the ham and beans from Sunday's dinner.

Fighting Back, Where the Boys Aren't, -and- Open Wide!

Fighting Back - new Missouri law protects killing of intruders
Where the Boys Aren't - all-female beach opens
Open Wide! - piranha caught in North Carolina

On this day in history: July 5, 1946 - Louis Reard's latest swimsuit creation, the two-piece Bikini, goes on sale in Paris.

Born on this day in history: July 5, 1810 - P. T. Barnum (1810 - 1891) circus owner. He created "The Greatest Show on Earth," 1871, complete with flashy ads and freak shows.

Today's Video: My Cat and Turtle

It appears that the warm weather has arrived! Click to enlarge.

I hope everyone had a safe and festive Fourth of July! Laura, Zeus, Thor, and I stayed indoors, relaxing, watching marathons of "Cops" and "King of the Hill," snacking on chips and salsa, and sipping Jose Cuervo margaritas. It was wonderfully restorative and peaceful. For dinner, we had grilled boneless, skinless chicken breasts and grilled corn on the cob. Laura rubbed the chicken breasts with Red Monkey Barbecue Spice Rub and grilled them perfectly. She pre-cooked the corn in the microwave for five minutes then charred on the grill. It was a delightful meal. The Red Monkey spices are incredibly delicious!

Where's the Garlic?, Fish out of Water, -and- iRevolution

Where's the Garlic? - man beats peacock he says was vampire
A Fish out of Water - freakish eel skull turns up far inland
iRebellion - Universal in dispute with Apple over iTunes

On this day in history: July 2, 1937 - Attempting to become the first female pilot to circumnavigate the globe in an airplane, Amelia Earhart disappears over the Pacific with her navigator, Fred Noonan.

Born on this day in history: July 2, 1925 - Medgar Evers (1925 - 1963) civil rights leader He was shot to death in front of his home; became martyr for civil rights cause; awarded 1963 Spingarn Medal.

Today's Video: "Mac or PC" Rap Music Video

While on my way to the office this morning, I encountered this fine-looking deer. Unfortunately, there was insufficient time to slay it and prepare it for the grill. Click to enlarge.

We had a frittata for brunch on Saturday. I prepared it while Laura was at the salon, having her hair trimmed. The frittata consisted of Johnsonville ground pork sausage, three small red potatoes, two heads of garlic, four large Jalapeños, 2 large habaneros, one large white onion, six jumbo eggs, and a quantity of pepperjack cheese. It was delicious, and there was such a quantity that the balance shall serve as our evening meal tonight.

We drove to Red Bluff on Saturday and viewed "Ratatouille." Rarely does feature-length animation reach such heights. It was a wonderfully engaging and delightful movie. I highly recommend it to everyone.

We rarely see movies in theatres—preferring to rent them, when released, from NetFlix and watch them at home. Despite enjoying "Ratatouille" greatly, I was reminded why we so seldom go to the theatre: The seat was uncomfortable—compared to the recliner from which I view movies at home—,the noise of other theatre patrons was annoying, and—worst of all—there was no beer!

For dinner last evening, we had a lovely London broil—well-rubbed with Red Monkey Steak Spice—, mushrooms, yellow squash, and red bell pepper—all grilled perfectly by Laura. It was a delicious meal.

8:30 AM UPDATE: When I arrived at my office this morning and turned on all the monitors, I determined that Pandora (my secondary computer system) had died. I generally greet situations such as this with stressful unease. This morning, however, I cast my care and relied upon God for direction. A few moments ago, I heard a voice—as distinctly as I now hear the clicking of the keyboard keys as I type this—say, "Turn around and look at Pandora." I turned and saw that Pandora is alive! I can offer no reason for her earlier demise. I offer now only the constant that with God all things are possible! Praise God!

To Serve and Protect, Fly Me to the Moon, -and- Take It on the Run

To Serve and Protect - sheriff driving on expired license for 14 months
Fly Me to the Moon - tickets for private lunar visit $100 million
Take It on the Run - convict ties monitoring tag to dog, flees

On this day in history: June 28, 1967 - Actress Jayne Mansfield is killed in a car crash, when her convertible collides with a parked tractor-trailer.

Born on this day in history: June 28, 1861 - William James Mayo (1861 - 1939) surgeon. He is best known as the founder of the Mayo Clinic, 1915.

Today's Video: Glock with Drum Magazine! - submitted by Frank

On my way to the office this morning, I encountered this Dodge Nitro! Click to enlarge.

For dinner this evening, I shall be making giant shrimp with thick spaghetti. I shall cook a package of Barilla thick spaghetti al denté and set aside while Laura sautés giant shrimp that have been marinating in extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped habanero, sun-dried tomatoes, and Red Monkey Mango Habanero Spice Rub. When the shrimp are cooked, Laura will incorporate the spaghetti. At the table, we shall add crushed red pepper and grated Romano cheese. The meal shall be delightful. There is no doubt.

Fighting Back, Hi!, -and- Waaa!

Fighting Back - ex-Marine, 72, teaches pickpocket a lesson
Hi! - man spends year in jail for waving at daughter
Waaa! - apple juice tantrum causes emergency landing

On this day in history: June 27, 1988 - Hillel Slovak, original guitarist from the rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers, dies of a heroin overdose in Hollywood.

Born on this day in history: June 27, 1930 - H. Ross Perot (1930 - ____) computer industrialist, philanthropist He is a self-made billionaire; founder/owner of Electronics Data Systems, 1962-84; presidential candidate, 1992.

Today's Video: Surfing Dog! - submitted by Laura

Here is a new photograph showing Mr. Nitro's personalized license plate. Click to enlarge.

We received a shipment of pickled ginger and wasabi sesame seeds yesterday from Asia Foods. We buy pickled ginger from this source regularly. The wasabi sesame seeds are a new item. They are wonderful! We had a salad last evening, featuring mixed greens, green beans, kidney beans, white onion, white mushroom, Jalapeños, yellow squash, and tomatoes. We sprinkled wasabi sesame seeds and Red Monkey Lemon Pepper spice on our salads, atop ranch dressing. The combination of the lemon pepper spice and wasabi sesame seeds was delicious and exciting.

Abandoned!, Tug of War, -and- Open Wide!

Abandoned! - parents arrested for leaving toddler in Florida sun
Tug of War - pregnant woman attacked over beach towel
Open Wide! - hot-dog champ gets jaw arthritis

On this day in history: June 26, 1945 - The United Nations Charter is signed at San Francisco's War Memorial Opera House.

Born on this day in history: June 26, 1892 - Pearl Buck (1892 - 1973) author. She was known for her novels of life in China, e.g., "The Good Earth"; won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1938.

Today's Video: I Can't See! - submitted by Chris

I saw this accident on my way to the office this morning. Fortunately, I had a tow strap with me, and Mr. Nitro was able to effortlessly pull the tank back onto the road. Click to enlarge.

For dinner last evening, I made steamed green beans and sautéed rock fish fillets. I placed the green beans in a casserole dish, sprinkled with Red Monkey Lemon Pepper Spice Rub, placed a bit of water in the bottom of the dish, and cooked on high for three minutes in the microwave. I seasoned the rock fish fillets on one side only with Red Monkey Mango Habanero Spice Rub and placed in a sauté pan that had been sprayed with Pam. Laura sautéed the fillets for five minutes on medium heat. She did not turn the fillets. It was a delightful meal. The Red Monkey spices are incredible!

Snip!, Taps, -and- Armed!

Snip! - barber stabs second client with scissors
Taps - SF mayor bans bottled water for city offices
Armed! - shooting sports among fastest-growing recreation for women

On this day in history: June 25, 1910 - The Mann Act, sometimes known as the White Slave Traffic Act of 1910, makes it a federal crime to convey or assist in transporting women across state lines for prostitution, debauchery, or "any other immoral purpose."

Born on this day in history: June 25, 1903 - George Orwell (1903 - 1950) novelist, critic. He is best known for "Animal Farm," 1946 and "1984," 1949.

Today's Video: Pit Bull and Chicks

Today is my birthday! It is also Laura's and my anniversary!

Friday evening, my brother (visiting from Southern California) brought a gallon bucket of margaritas, a large container of wasabi peas, and a birthday card. He ordered a King Arthur Supreme pizza from Round Table Pizza. We had a delightful meal and excellent visit.

Saturday evening, we had New York strip steaks and asparagus for dinner. I blanched the asparagus for three minutes and placed in the refrigerator to chill. Laura dry rubbed the steaks with Red Monkey Steak Rub and grilled perfectly—nicely charred on the outside and rare in the center. It was a delicious repast.

Sunday, we enjoyed a lunch visit with my mother. We enjoyed a pasta salad I had prepared the previous day. The salad consisted of large pasta shells, medium shrimp, diced red bell pepper, diced cucumber, diced dill pickle, and pear tomatoes. The dressing was mayonnaise, ranch dressing, wasabi paste, lime juice, rice wine vinegar, crushed red pepper, ground black pepper, sea salt, and dill weed. It was a wonderful visit and a delicious salad.