Bang! - man charged with firearms offenses after shooting himself Stupid Criminals - teen arrested breaking into police station Eek! - scientists create life from mouse frozen for 16 years
On this day in history: November 4, 1993 - A series of fires rage in Southern California, destroying 300 very expensive homes in Malibu and 700 homes scattered elsewhere. Damage totals $500M to $1B. Half of the large fires were arson.
Born on this day in history: November 4, 1969 - Matthew McConaughey (1969-)Born on November 4, 1969, actor Matthew McConaughey grew up in the small Texas town of Uvalde. Known for his good looks and easy-going personality, McConaughey soon achieved leading man status with "A Time to Kill" (1996). Sometimes compared to Paul Newman, McConaughey has received praise for his on-screen charisma.
Scripture of the Day: Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. — Proverbs 11:4
Video of the Day: By the Way, I'm Voting for McCain/Palin
He needs help! Click to enlarge.
VOTE! Be certain to vote!
If you are a Republican, vote today!
If you are a Democrat, vote tomorrow!
Recommended Site: My friend and reader, Chris told me of a new browser interface. I installed it and found it to be awesome! Cooliris will make your computer look like the futuristic computers on "CSI Miami"! Try it. You will like it! Cooliris creates a "cinematic" environment for browsing the Web.
On this day in history: November 3, 1913 - Income tax law signed.
Born on this day in history: November 3, 1952 - Roseanne Barr (1952– ) Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, comedian and producer Roseanne Barr began in stand-up comedy in the 1980s, and is best known for her realistic TV sitcom "Roseanne" (1988?97). She has written two autobiographical books.
Scripture of the Day: By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. — Hebrews 11:3
Video of the Day: Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger for John McCain
Selfish! Click to enlarge.
The Weather: I prayed for a respite from the rain for Friday evening, so that the Harvest Festival at Harvest Christian Center could be enjoyed by thousands of local youth. My prayer was answered! It rained earlier in the day, and there was a light sprinkling late in the afternoon, but the rain abated completely during the festival, there was no wind, and the temperature was pleasant. 18 gallons of chili was enjoyed—along with hot chocolate, several hundred cookies, popcorn, and an incredible quantity of candy. It was a wonderful event. I shall have a slide show available for viewing soon and will alert readers when this is ready.
Saturday was extremely wet and uninviting. I made Barilla thick spaghetti with Italian sausage, mushrooms, and Classico marinara sauce. I also made garlic toast. My brother came to dinner.
Sunday, the sun returned, and it was sufficiently warm that I was able to open several doors and windows. The cats thoroughly enjoyed lounging by the open front door, relaxing and sniffing at the great outdoors.
My brother came to dinner Sunday. Most likely, he shall be returning to Southern California Tuesday or Wednesday. I marinated three large, thick New York strip steaks in extra-virgin olive oil, granulated garlic, lemon pepper, Italian seasoning, and Merlot. I marinated huge prawns (deveined, tails removed) in extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, granulated garlic, lemon pepper, ground ginger, lime juice, and powdered wasabi. I grilled the steaks and prawns over a very high flame—charring the steaks nicely on the outside, while leaving the center nice and rare. The prawns were succulent and wonderful, not unlike small lobster tails. Laura baked a quantity of steak fries in the conventional oven. It was a delightful meal.
VOTE! If you have not already voted (Laura and I have. We vote absentee always.) do not neglect voting tomorrow! It is important that you exercise your right to vote—unless, of course, you intend not to vote for John McCain. In this case, it would be best that you stay home!
Fighting Back - Christian college to allow students to carry concealed firearms? Armed and Dangerous - NJ Cop Puts CBS 2 Cameraman In Chokehold Following Directions - driver steered his van straight into a lake, after his GPS told him to
On this day in history: October 28, 1965 - Pope Paul VI issues Nostra Aetate in which he absolves the Jews of killing Jesus, thus reversing 760 years of official Vatican policy. Innocent III had declared in 1205 that "the Jews, by their own guilt, are consigned to perpetual servitude because they crucified the Lord."
Born on this day in history: October 28, 1955 - Bill Gates (1955 - ) Born in Seattle, Washington, computer engineer and entrepreneur Bill Gates dropped out of Harvard in 1975 to write computer programming. In 1977, he co-founded Microsoft to develop and produce DOS, a basic operating system for computers. By the late 1990s, he had become the wealthiest man in America. Established in 2000, his charitable foundation works to improve global health and education. Gates received an honorary knighthood in 2004. In June 2008, Gates officially retired after 33 years of running the day-to-day operations of Microsoft and devote his time to the foundation's projects and causes.
Scripture of the Day: The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing. — Proverbs 10:28
Video of the Day: Iguana Eyes - submitted by Cindy
Click to enlarge.
Cold, dark mornings: With each passing day, the mornings become colder and stay dark longer. Daylight Savings Time ends Sunday morning. The mornings will then remain dark an additional hour. Eek! I dislike darkness and cold. I miss summer.
This Friday, Harvest Christian Center will host the annual Harvest Festival. Hopefully, the weather will remain dry and pleasant for this event. Thousands of young people are expected to attend this free alternative to Halloween. I shall photograph the event and will produce a slide show from the photographs. I shall alert readers when this slide show is available for viewing.
Finders Keepers - 89-year-old woman arrested for not returning football that landed in her yard No Free Lunch - woman jailed over $7.45 restaurant bill Smile for the Camera - senior photos become glamour shots
On this day in history: October 21, 1997 - The Government of Singapore announces in a widely publicized "toilet alert" that the drive for toilet cleanliness is a great success. Five toilets were selected by citizens as toilet role models.
Born on this day in history: October 21, 1917 - Dizzy Gillespie (1917 - 1993) Jazz trumpeter, composer. Born John Birks Gillespie in Cheraw, South Carolina. He worked in prominent swing bands (1937–44), including those of Benny Carter and Charlie Barnet.
Scripture of the Day: He is your praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes. — Deuteronomy 10:21
Video of the Day: How Camera Lenses Are Made
Vote early; vote often. Click to enlarge.
The weather was beautiful over the weekend. One of my brothers—visiting from Southern Californai—came to dinner Saturday and Sunday. Saturday, I made shrimp Alfredo. I cleaned 65 medium shrimp and simmered them in Classico Alfredo sauce. When the sauce was ready, I sprinkled parsley atop it, and Laura incorporated the sauce into the Barilla thick spaghetti that I had cooked al denté. We also had toasted garlic bread. It was a delicious meal. Leftovers followed Laura to work Monday. Sunday, Laura grilled Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts—slathering them as the grilled with Jack Daniels barbecue sauce. I steamed whole kernel corn, peas, and pearl onions in the microwave in a covered casserole dish and toasted garlic bread. It was an excellent dinner.
Last evening for dinner, we had leftover beef that I produced Friday by simmering London broil in spring water, beef bouillon, diced white onion, minced garlic, diced Jalapeño, chopped celery, ground chile de arbo, ground cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, cumin, and Tony Chachere's More Spice. This mixture simmered until the beef shredded and the liquid dissipated. I made fresh salsa to accompany the burritos we made with the beef mixture. It was a wonderful meal.
Fighting Back - Passengers overcome hijacker on Turkish Airlines flight Jaws of Death - fisherman hooked after shark he caught fights back Stop Thief! - Anti-burglar device banned, safety of burglar cited
On this day in history: October 16, 1996 - 84 are killed and more than 180 injured in Guatemala City when 47,000 soccer fans attempt to squeeze into 36,000 seats at Mateo Flores Stadium.
Born on this day in history: October 16, 1925 - Angela (Brigid) Lansbury (1925– ) Born in London, actress Angela Lansbury became a U.S. citizen in 1951. Her role in "Gaslight" (1944) led to an MGM contract and many more films. After roles in several Broadway musicals, Lansbury appeared as Jessica Fletcher in the TV mystery series "Murder She Wrote" (1984–-95).
Scripture of the Day: Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? — 1 Corinthians 10:16
Video of the Day: Third Presidential Debate - Full Video
Joe The Plumber: Obama Tax Plan 'Infuriates Me'!
Poll for Final Presidential Debate. Click to enlarge.
Clearing a Windows-based computer's memory without restarting the computer.
If you are running Windows-based computer you may find that after several days your system will begin running more slowly than usual.
Of course, you can simply restart the computer to remove any idle processes. But here is a simpler way:
1. Right click on an empty spot on the Desktop and select New - Shortcut.
2. Type %windir%\system32\rundll32.exe advapi32.dll,ProcessIdleTasks in the box.
3. Click Next.
4. Name this shortcut "Clear Memory."
5. Click Finish.
Now whenever your computer begins running slowly, simply click this shortcut to clear out your memory and get your computer running at a normal pace again.
Fighting Back - deliveryman chases, shoots at driver in his stolen van - gun fight ensues until victim recovers vehicle Junk Mail - Feds bust alleged spam network behind billions of Viagra e-mails Is There a Doctor in the House? - physician serving meth sentence saves inmate’s life
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, 1945 - Penny Marshall (1945-) Born into a showbiz family in The Bronx, actress and film director Penny Marshall played Jack Klugman's secretary on her brother Garry's first hit series, "The Odd Couple" (1970-75). She became a TV star in 1976 as Laverne DeFazio on "Laverne & Shirley" (1977-1983), and then one of Hollywood’s most bankable directors after directing "Big" (1988) and "A League Of Their Own" (1991).
Scripture of the Day: But the Israelites said to the LORD, "We have sinned. Do with us whatever you think best, but please rescue us now." — Judges 10:15
Video of the Day: Hank Williams Jr. - "McCain - Palin Tradition"
"McCain - Palin Tradition" By Hank Williams Jr.
The left wing liberal media have
Always been a real close knit family
But, most of the American People
Don't believe em anyway ya see
Stop and think it over
Before you make your decision
If they smell something
They're gonna come down strong
It's a McCain - Palin tradition
Now this old Union's got problems
That is plain to see
The Democrats bankrupted Fannie Mae N Freddie Mac
Just like 1, 2, 3
The bankers didn't want to make all those bad loans,
Driving Force - 10-year-old flips van filled with drunk, pill-popping adults Voter Fraud - ACORN Nevada office raided by Nevada Secretary of State and Attorney General No Account - Democratic lawmaker's son indicted in Palin email hack
On this day in history: October 8, 1871 - Catherine O'Leary's cow starts the Chicago Fire, killing 250 and destroying 17,000 buildings.
Born on this day in history: October 8, 1941 - Paul Hogan (1941 -) Comedian and actor, born in Lightning Ridge, New South Wales, SE Australia. When he appeared on a television talent show as a comedian, his original style proved so popular that he was given his own programme, "The Paul Hogan Show," which ran for nine years. International fame followed with the successful films "Crocodile Dundee" (1986) and "Crocodile Dundee II" (1988). His series of television advertisements for the Australian Tourist Board did much to promote his country, and he has become something of a national folk hero. His 1990 film "Almost an Angel" was less successful, but in 1993 he listed his next film, "Lightning Ridge," on the Australian Stock Exchange to raise funds - a unique and successful venture. Later films include "Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles" (2001).
Scripture of the Day: The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. — Proverbs 10:8
Video of the Day: Second Presidential Debate - Full Video
Sarah Palin on the campaign trail. Go, Sarah! Click to enlarge.
John McCain at last evening's presidential debate. Go, John!
Poaching Mushrooms: When I intend to use sliced mushrooms in a dish, I generally poach the mushroom slices in boiling water for 20 minutes. This gives the mushrooms a wonderful meatiness, and they remain plump and meaty after subsequent cooking. I highly recommend this!
A Preacher's test for his son
An old country preacher had a teenage son, and it was getting time the boy should give some thought to choosing a profession. Like many young men his age, the boy didn't really know what he wanted to do, and he didn't seem too concerned about it.
One day, while the boy was away at school, his father decided to try an experiment. He went into the boy's room and placed on his study table four objects:
1. A bible. 2. A silver dollar. 3. A bottle of whisky. 4. And a Playboy magazine.
'I'll just hide behind the door,' the old preacher said to himself. 'When he comes home from school today, I'll see which object he picks up. If it's the bible, he's going to be a preacher like me, and what a blessing that would be! If he picks up the dollar, he's going to be a business man, and that would be okay, too. But if he picks up the bottle, he's going to be a no-good drunken bum, and Lord, what a shame that would be. And worst of all if he picks up that magazine he's going to be a skirt-chasing womanizer.'
The old man waited anxiously, and soon heard his son's footsteps as he entered the house whistling and headed for his room.
The boy tossed his books on the bed, and as he turned to leave the room, he spotted the objects on the table. With curiosity in his eye, he walked over to inspect them.
Finally, he picked up the Bible and placed it under his arm.
He picked up the silver dollar and dropped into his pocket.
He uncorked the bottle and took a big drink, while he admired this month's centerfold.
'Lord have mercy,' the old preacher disgustedly whispered. 'He's gonna run for the Senate!'
TLC - criminal past is no bar to nursing in California Got Milk? - 86 cats rescued from Colorado apartment I Robot - scientists unveil lifelike, silicon-skinned cyber-girl
On this day in history: October 7, 1985 - Off the coast of Italy, four Palestinian terrorists hijack the cruise ship Achille Lauro, and toss overboard crippled American tourist Leon Klinghoffer.
Born on this day in history: October 7, 1931 - Desmond Tutu (1931 - ) Born in Klerksdorp, South Africa, Anglican clergyman Desmond Tutu became the first black Bishop of Johannesburg (1984). A critic of the apartheid system, he repeatedly risked imprisonment, earning the 1984 Nobel Prize for Peace.
Scripture of the Day: Who should not revere you, O King of the nations? This is your due. Among all the wise men of the nations and in all their kingdoms, there is no one like you. — Jeremiah 10:7
Video of the Day: Gus Harper - Grid Painting - submitted by Amber
On this day in history: October 3, 1995 - A jury of his "peers" finds Orenthal James Simpson not guilty. Later, OJ resumes his golfing career while hunting for The Real Killers.
Born on this day in history: October 3, 1941 - Chubby Checker 1941-) Born Ernest Evans in Spring Gulley, South Carolina, son of a tobacco farmer, singer Chubby Checker began performing in churches and on the streets of Philadelphia. His recording of "The Twist" hit No. 1 in 1961, and revolutionized popular culture by letting couples break apart on the dance floor.
Scripture of the Day: Moses then said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD spoke of when he said: 'Among those who approach me I will show myself holy; in the sight of all the people I will be honored.'" Aaron remained silent. — Leviticus 10:3
Video of the Day: Full Palin vs. Biden Vice Presidential Debate
"Say it ain't so, Joe!"
Those of you who read my blog yesterday will recall that I predicted John McCain would choose Sarah Palin for his running mate at a time when most people had never heard of Sarah Palin and long before John McCain announced his choice.
Readers of yesterday’s blog will also recall that I predicted that Sarah Palin would assuage her supporters and astound her detractors and that she would win the debate. Sarah Palin did this easily—virtually romping through the first half of the debate with an energy that made her opponent, Joe Biden, seem positively geriatric. She answered questions directly, in a language that was easily understood by the average viewer. She was graceful, sincere, happy, down-to-earth, energetic, and credible—in direct opposition to her dour opponent, who seemed pained by the process and by the end of the debate was visibly haggard and in dire need of a "good night’s sleep"—something he appeared not to have enjoyed in a good while.
Sarah Palin quickly, adroitly, and very successfully positioned herself as an articulate, honest, caring "average American" whose goal was to effectuate change in the political structure of Washington D.C. and eliminate the gross, wanton spending and lack of restraint that had ushered in the current financial crisis. She positioned herself as diametrically opposed to the entrenched structure of Washington D.C.—typified by Joe Biden and endorsed by Barak Obama.
The most outstanding and memorable sound bite of the evening is undoubtedly when Palin said, "Say it ain't so, Joe, there you go again pointing backward. Now, doggone it, let's look ahead and tell Americans what we have to plan to do for them in the future."
By the mid-point of the debate, it was obvious that Sarah Palin would be victorious. This was certainly apparent to Sarah, since the energy, enthusiasm, and glowing smiles that she had displayed through this point—strong though they all had been—increased dramatically. She veritably pranced, like a thoroughbred, through the second half of the debate, and the effect upon Joe Biden—who had already displayed a nearly total lack of enthusiasm and energy—since he began to slump, speak in a near monotone, and take on a defeated expression.
Joe Biden’s sole opposition to a McCain-Palin administration seemed to be the tired rhetoric that it would be a continuation of the policies of the current administration. Sarah Palin quickly dispatched this concept as completely flawed and without substance early in the debate. Biden, however, returned to it several times, and Palin reminded him (and the audience) each time that he was doing so. She gracefully and very successfully demonstrated that Biden and Obama had little substantive platform—other than the continuance of the tired mantra of "four more years of the same." Palin demonstrated that she and McCain would bring real change to Washington D.C.—something that the average voter enthusiastically demands. She enumerated the changes she had made in the politics of Alaska—often reaching across party lines to effectuate changes that reduced government spending, lowered—and, in many cases, eliminated—taxes, and elevated the voters’ confidence in government.
I predicted that Sarah Palin would assuage her supporters and astound her detractors. She did that very successfully by the mid-point of the debate. She also accomplished something else: She captured the attention of independent and undecided voters and—in many cases, I am certain—won their hearts and minds.
My predictions have, thus far, been correct. I shall now make another prediction: John McCain and Sarah Palin shall be victorious on November 4!
On this day in history: October 2, 1871 - Mormon prophet Brigham Young is arrested for cohabitating with a 16-year-old girl.
Born on this day in history: October 2, 1869 - Mahatma Gandhi (1869 - 1948) Born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in Poorbandar, India, and later known as Mahatma or "Great Soul," Indian nationalist leader Gandhi studied law in London, fought discrimination in South Africa, and returned to India in 1914 to advocate nonviolent protest in the movement to achieve independence. Gandhi was assassinated in Delhi.
Scripture of the Day: In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises. — Psalm 10:2
Video of the Day: McCain: Gwen Ifill Will Do a Totally Objective Job
Look out, Sarah! He bites! Click to enlarge.
Tonight's Vice Presidential Debate will be an outstanding opportunity for Sarah Palin to assuage supports and astound critics!
I predicted Sarah Palin would be John McCain's choice for running mate long prior to the announcement. The nearly universal response was, "Who"? I have followed Palin's career for years with great interest, and when I made the prediction, I was certain that it would be greeted with disbelief. I was correct. When McCain announced his choice of Palin, however, many asked, "How in the world did you know?" The simple truth is I did not know! I sensed that McCain would choose her, and I expressed that sense as a prediction.
I will make another prediction: I predict that Sarah Palin will be victorious tonight and do so by a wide margin!
Go, Sarah!
Dirty Tricks! I make my prediction with the full knowledge that there are dark forces working to thwart Sarah Palin's victory. As if it were not sufficient that the moderator be selected—as was the moderator for the McCain-Biden debate—from the murky pond of ultra-liberal Obama enthusiasts at PBS, there is now the issue that the moderator of tonight's debate, Gwen Ifill, is apparently a book to come out the time the next president takes office, and the book is very favorable to Barack Obama!
Simply put, if Obama wins the presidency, Ifill's book will quickly become a best seller. For every 100,000 copies sold, Ifill will receive approximately $350,000! That certainly gives her a vested interest in Obama's election! John McCain was, quite simply, entirely too accepting of this choice of moderator (see today's video), and I believe Ifill should be replaced summarily!
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, 1903 - Vladimir Horowitz Biography (1903 - 1989) Russian pianist. He attended the Kiev Conservatory and made his debut in 1921. His stunning technique gained him a large international reputation, and he became an inveterate touring performer, giving 100 concerts a year in the U.S. alone. In 1933 he married Arturo Toscanini's daughter, Wanda. Always susceptible to nervous strain, in 1953 he decided to quit public performance; his return to the concert stage in 1965 was attended by great publicity. He favoured the works of Romantics such as Robert Schumann, Frédéric Chopin, Franz Liszt, and his friend Sergey Rachmaninoff. He continued to perform into his 80s.
Scripture of the Day: Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people, making widows their prey and robbing the fatherless. — Isaiah 10:1-2
Video of the Day: Rats Having Fun - submitted by Darin
Go, Sarah! Click to enlarge.
"Fireproof": Setting box office on fire!
A Christian film has been blazing hot in movie theaters—earning $6.8 million and becoming the fourth best-selling movie in the nation! "Fireproof" had the highest opening weekend box office of the year for films released on 1,000 screens or less. Samuel Goldwyn Films' "Fireproof," starring Kirk Cameron and Erin Bethea, is a faith-based movie with a powerful message to couples: "Never leave your partner behind."
"Fireproof" was produced by Sherwood Pictures—a ministry of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Ga. Director Alex Kendrick is an associate pastor at the church. He and his brother, Stephen Kendrick, wrote the screenplay.
Laura and I are particularly excited to see "Fireproof" doing so well, since we have been great enthusiasts of the films produced by Sherwood Pictures—"Flywheel" and "Facing the Giants"—and of Kirk Cameron's work in the "Left Behind" series and "The Way of the Master."
For dinner last evening, I made Cajun Rice with Beef: I placed 1 1/2 cups of Calrose rice in a large sauté pan. I added 2 1/4 cups of juice from the a batch of salsa I made last week. I then added thinly sliced top sirloin steak that had been grilled Sunday, a large white onion (sliced), three large Jalapeños (diced), a stalk of celery (thinly sliced), a head of garlic (finely chopped), a small habanero pepper (finely chopped), two large cluster tomatoes (diced), sea salt, Gebhardt's chili powder, and Tony Chachere's More Spice. I brought this to a rolling boil on high and cooked for five minutes. I lowered the burner to one notch above low and cooked, unattended, for 45 minutes. It was wonderful.
On this day in history: September 30, 1955 - Heading westbound on Highway 466 just outside Cholame, California, movie star James Dean is killed in a head-on collision with another driver. University student Donald Turnupseed was driving home in his Ford when he swerved into the oncoming lane, smashing into Dean's Porsche 550 Spyder.
Born on this day in history: September 30, 1924 - Truman Capote (1924 - 1984) Born in New Orleans, writer Truman Capote moved to New York City in 1942, working as an office boy at The New Yorker. His first novel, "Other Voices, Other Rooms" (1948), launched a literary career that’s best-known for "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1958). Capote cultivated celebrity status and was famous for his jet-setting lifestyle.
Scripture of the Day: For many years you were patient with them. By your Spirit you admonished them through your prophets. Yet they paid no attention, so you handed them over to the neighboring peoples. — Nehemiah 9:30
Video of the Day: Cats vs. Dogs - submitted by Danica
The United Way realized that it had never received a donation from the city's most successful lawyer. So a United Way volunteer paid the lawyer a visit in his lavish office.
The volunteer opened the meeting by saying, "Our research shows that even though your annual income is over two million dollars, you don't give a penny to charity. Wouldn't you like to give something back to your community through the United Way?"
The lawyer thinks for a minute and says, "First, did your research also show you that my mother is dying after a long, painful illness and she has huge medical bills that are far beyond her ability to pay?"
Embarrassed, the United Way rep mumbles, "Uh... no, I didn't know that."
"Secondly," says the lawyer, "did it show that my brother, a disabled veteran, is blind and confined to a wheelchair and is unable to support his wife and six children?" The stricken United Way rep begins to stammer an apology, but is cut off again.
"Thirdly, did your research also show you that my sister's husband died in dreadful car accident, leaving her penniless with a mortgage and three children, one of whom is disabled and another that has learning disabilities requiring an array of private tutors?"
The humiliated United Way rep, completely beaten, says, "I'm so sorry, I had no idea."
And the lawyer says, "So . . . if I didn't give any money to them, what makes you think I'd give any to you?"
Sleep Tight - bedbugs make a return via low-cost flights The Armed Citizen - under anonymity, gun licenses soar in Florida Brave New Schools - 5th grader suspended for anti-Obama shirt
On this day in history: September 23, 1952 - Responding to accusations that he diverted $18,000 in contributions into his pocket, Senator Richard M. Nixon rescues his candidacy for Vice President by insisting that he had never accepted any money. Although Nixon does admit he accepted a cocker spaniel named Checkers for his daughter Tricia. The televised monologue rescues his political career.
Born on this day in history: September 23, 1949 - Bruce Springsteen (1949– ) Born in Freehold, New Jersey, rock musician Bruce Sprintsteen began performing with local groups in Asbury Park, New Jersey, before forming his own band in 1971 and signing with Columbia Records. Promoted as the new Bob Dylan, Springsteen hit it big with "Born to Run" (1975). He has performed at numerous rock benefits, such as Live Aid and Amnesty International.
Scripture of the Day: "If you can?" said Jesus. Everything is possible for him who believes. — Mark 9:23
Video of the Day: The Terror of Killer Dumpling - submitted by Amber
"Joe Biden said you weren't good enough to shine my shoes. I told him he was wrong!" Click to enlarge.
Saturday morning, while Laura was at the salon, I produced two marinades. I made a marinade of extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Tony Chachere's More Spice, ground black pepper, and honey. I placed two huge New York strip steaks in a Glad bag, poured the marinade over them, and placed in the refrigerator. I made a marinade of extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, ground ginger, minced garlic, and Tony Chachere's More Spice. I placed Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a Glad bag and poured 2/3 of the marinade over them. I placed giant prawns in another Glad bag and poured the remaining marinade over them.
Saturday evening, I grilled the New York strip steaks and prawns and steamed some sugar snap peas. The steaks were perfect: Charred on the outside, and rare in the center. The giant prawns were delightful. I removed the tails prior to placing in the marinade. The butcher had slit the backs deveined them. The meat popped out of the shells easily. They were succulent beyond description.
Sunday morning—following the early service at Harvest Christian Center, Laura cooked OreIda potatoes O'Brien, fried eggs, and two lovely pieces of leftover New York strip steaks. It was a wonderful brunch.
Sunday evening, Laura grilled the chicken breasts, red bell peppers, yellow squash, and potatoes. The chicken was moist, tender, and delicious. The vegetables were wonderful. A quantity of chicken remains for another meal later in the week.
When I returned home from the office yesterday, I produced an enormous batch of salsa, using 12 large cluster tomatoes, 4 huge Jalapeños, two large habaneros, a large white onion, three stalks of celery, a large quantity of minced garlic, Tony Chachere's More Spice, cumin, ground black pepper, sea salt, and parsley. For dinner, Laura cooked New York-style pork sausage (cut into 1/2-inch pieces), Eggland's Best large eggs, leftover potatoes O'Brien, Tony Chachere's More Spice, sea salt, and ground black pepper. She warmed flour tortillas, and we made burritos—liberally adding fresh salsa. It was a delicious meal.
On this day in history: September 15, 1998 - Rap artist Coolio is arrested in Lawndale, California after being pulled over for driving a 1996 Hummer on the wrong side of the road. He was carrying an expired license, a loaded 9mm semiautomatic firearm, and a small quantity of marijuana.
Born on this day in history: September 15, 1946 - Tommy Lee Jones (1946-) Academy-Award-winning actor, director, and screenwriter born September 15, 1946, in San Saba, Texas.
Scripture of the Day: [In talking about others having the right to be supported in their ministry, the apostle Paul says] But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this in the hope that you will do such things for me. I would rather die than have anyone deprive me of this boast. - 1 Corinthians 9:15
Video of the Day: Origami Frog - submitted by Danica
Yikes! Say it is not so! Click to enlarge.
Following the early service at Harvest Christian Center yesterday, I produced a delectable Oriental salad: I poached sliced white mushrooms for 20 minutes. I added a package of Oriental noodles to the boiling water and continued to cook for 3 minutes. I then added a package of snow peas and turned off the burner. I allowed the mushrooms, noodles, and snow peas to remain in the water for another minute then drained into a colander. I shook the colander vigorously to further drain and emptied the contents into a large stainless-steel mixing bowl. I added a quantity of chopped green onions and sliced water chestnuts. I sliced leftover grilled London broil into thin strips and added to the salad. I grated a large quantity of fresh ginger onto the salad and seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice, garlic powder, parsley flakes, crushed red pepper, and celery salt. I dressed the salad with a mixture of one part teriyaki sauce, one part extra-virgin olive oil, and three parts rice wine vinegar. I tossed the salad, covered with a paper towel, and placed in the refrigerator. It was a delightful evening meal.
Sunday afternoon, I photographed the Harvest Christian Center softball tournament—the second of the year. I shall produce a slide show from these photographs and share them soon.
Fighting Back - female karate champion defeats mugger Fighting Back Too - homeowner holds burglar at gunpoint until cops arrive Dress Code - Florida baggy-pants law nets 11 more perps
On this day in history: September 12, 1966 - NBC television premieres "The Monkees," a sitcom about four guys in a rock band. When the show becomes a hit, the fictional Monkees somehow release a string of albums, even though three of the actors can't even play their instruments.
Born on this day in history: September 12, 1913 - Jesse Owens (1913 - 1980) Born in Danville, Alabama, track and field athlete Jesse Owens set three world records and tied another in the span of about an hour in 1935. At the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, Germany, he achieved the finest one-day performance in track history with four gold medals, forcing Hitler to leave the stadium to avoid congratulating an African-American. In a belated gesture, Owens was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1976.
Scripture of the Day: On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick." - Matthew 9:12
Video of the Day: Giant Snails - submitted by Cindy
Go, Sarah! Click to enlarge.
Who Am I?
I am 42 years old. I love the outdoors. I hunt. I am a Republican reformer. I have taken on the Republican Party establishment. I have five children. I have a spot on the national ticket as vice president with less than two years in the governor's office.
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.
Lost! - American Airlines sued over missing body Brave New Schools - teacher fights to post Declaration of Independence quote Not on the Menu - chef finds 26 pearls in single oyster
On this day in history: September 10, 1977 - Convicted torture-killer Hamida Djandoubi, an immigrant from Tunisia, becomes the last person executed by France when he is guillotined in Marseilles.
Born on this day in history: September 10, 1929 - Arnold Palmer (1929 - ) Born in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, golfer Arnold Palmer was instrumental in popularizing the sport. He won 91 tournaments in his career, playing in six Ryder Cups (1961 – 1973).
Scripture of the Day: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. - Proverbs 9:10
Video of the Day: Sarah Palin Acceptance Speech, Part 4
What a doll! Click to enlarge.
Cool(er) Weather! The last several days have been progressively cooler. Yesterday, it was nearly 1 PM before I determined it necessary to activate the air conditioning! It is forecast to be a mere 92 degrees today. Global cooling has begun!
I have made available a collection of nearly 100 of my favorite photographs. You may view the images individually or as a slide show (click on "start slide show" at the bottom left of the first image). From the Photo Gallery of Local Events, choose "Favorite Photographs." Enjoy!
Brave New Schools - campaign launched to liberate "speling" The Pits - woman charged in scam over broken teeth from eating olives Come in from the Cold - father and son rescued after treading water in ocean for 15 hours
On this day in history: September 9, 1971 - 1,300 inmates riot inside the Attica Correctional Facility in western New York state, commandeering the prison and taking 40 guards hostage. The national guard stages an assault five days later, killing 42 people in the process (10 of them being captives).
Born on this day in history: September 9, 1941 - Otis Redding (1941 - 1967) Born in Dawson, Georgia, soul singer Otis Redding was inspired by Little Richard. His 1967 appearance at the Monterey pop festival led to success, but he died in a plane crash soon afterward. His biggest hit, "Dock of the Bay," was released posthumously.
Scripture of the Day: He answered me, "The sin of the house of Israel and Judah is exceedingly great; the land is full of bloodshed and the city is full of injustice. They say, 'The LORD has forsaken the land; the LORD does not see.'" - Ezekiel 9:9
Video of the Day: Sarah Palin Acceptance Speech, Part 3
John McCain and Sarah Palin - the next President and Vice President of the United States! Click to enlarge.
Sarah Palin is Commander of the Alaska National Guard. Consider this:
Alaska is the first line of defense in our missile interceptor defense system.
The 49th Missile Defense Battalion of the Alaska National Guard is the unit that protects the entire nation from ballistic missile attacks. It is on permanent active duty, unlike other Guard units. As governor of Alaska, Palin is briefed on highly classified military issues, homeland security, and counter-terrorism. Her exposure to classified material may rival even Biden's and certainly by far exceeds Obama's. She's also the Commander in Chief of the Alaska State Defense Force (ASDF ), a federally recognized militia incorporated into Homeland Security's counter-terrorism plans. Palin is privy to military and intelligence secrets that are vital to the entire country's defense. Given Alaska's proximity to Russia, she may have security clearances we do not even know about. According to the Washington Post, she first met with McCain in February, but nobody ever found out. This is a woman used to keeping secrets.
On this day in history: September 8, 1935 - Dr. Carl Austin Weiss confronts Senator Huey Long in a narrow corridor of the State House in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Weiss draws a .32 caliber pistol and fires one slug into Long's abdomen. The Senator's bodyguards immediately make Swiss cheese out of Weiss, riddling him with 61 bullets. Long is rushed to the hospital, where he dies two days later.
Born on this day in history: September 8, 1932 - Patsy Cline (1932 - 1963) Born Virginia Patterson Hensley in Winchester, Virginia, country singer Patsy Cline won the Arthur Godfrey Talent Scouts contest in 1957, and went on to record such hits as "I Fall to Pieces" (1960) and "Crazy" (1961). She died in a plane crash.
Scripture of the Day: And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. - 2 Corinthians 9:8
Video of the Day: Sarah Palin Acceptance Speech, Part 2
Barak and Sarah - worlds apart! Click to enlarge.
The hot weather returned last weekend. Temperatures reached 110 degrees, keeping us indoors much of the time. It was perfect weather for watching movies and lounging in the coolness of the living room. The theatre black-out drapes greatly enhance the visibility of the 47" Vizio LCD HDTV and considerably restrict heat from entering the room.
We did manage to do some grilling, however! Saturday, Laura put a dry rub on a huge (over 4 pounds!) London broil and grilled it flawlessly—along with some asparagus, large white mushrooms, and red bell peppers. We ate a quantity, and a good deal remained for future meals. It was delicious.
Sunday morning—following service at Harvest Christian Center—Laura made potatoes O'Brien, fried eggs, and sautéed London broil steaks. It was a delightful meal.
Sunday afternoon, I cooked chicken wing drumettes on the grill. I marinated the drumettes Saturday morning in Crystal Louisiana Hot Sauce. I placed the drumettes on the grill, over a high flame, and poured the marinade into a Pyrex measuring cup. When the drumettes were seared well, I turned off the front burner, left the rear burner on high, moved all the drumettes to the front, and continued cooking over indirect heat—brushing the drumettes with the marinade every 15 minutes—for 90 minutes. I baked some OreIda onion rings in the conventional oven. It was a delicious feast, and leftover drumettes and onion rings will follow Laura to Chico today for her luncheon delight.
A Star Is Born - the world fell in love with Sarah Palin Fighting Back - couple fights off shotgun-wielding intruders Stupid Criminals - alleged thief uses his own signature with stolen credit card
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, 1847 - Jesse James (1847–82) Born in Centerville, Missouri, Wild West outlaw Jesse James fought in the Civil War. Then, with brother Frank (1843 – 1915), he led numerous bank, train and stagecoach robberies in and around Missouri. Robert Ford, a member of the gang, murdered James for the reward.
Scripture of the Day: "Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting. Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise." - Nehemiah 9:5b
Video of the Day: Sarah Palin Acceptance Speech, Part 1
Okay, let's work this out logically without a lot of emotion.
If you vote for Obama,
You get this:
But if you vote for McCain,
You get this:
Looking at this in a logical manner, McCain appears to be the better candidate.
