Fighting Back, Doing the Right Thing, -and- Avast!

Fighting Back - woman fends off home invaders with chili, broom
Doing the Right Thing - struggling single mom facing eviction returns $271,000 after bank error
Avast! U.S. Navy detains 17 suspected pirates

On this day in history: May 15, 1997 - Federal prosecutors in the Unabomber trial file the necessary paperwork requesting the death penalty for Ted Kaczynski.

Born on this day in history: May 15, 1923 - Richard Avedon (1923 - 2004) Born in New York City, photographer Richard Avedon began shooting fashion for "Harper's Bazaar" (1945-65), and became known for stark portraits of people in unusual poses. He published his first book of celebrity portraits, "Observations," in 1959. In 1963, Avedon photographed aspects of the Civil Rights and Anti-War movements, then became famous working for "Vogue."

Scripture of the Day: So after they [the church at Antioch] had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them [Barnabas and Saul] and sent them off. — Acts 13:3

Video of the Day: Video tour of Sierra Nevada Nevada Brewing Co. and interview with owner, Ken Grossman - submitted by Laura

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. on Fox News!

UPDATE 12:40 PM: I set up the new Microsoft Life Web Cam 6000. I am waiting for extension cables in order to place it in the front window of my office. Until then, you will see random images sent from when the mood strikes me.

Laura's Journey: Laura is on her way to Sacramento, where she will attend a business seminar. This afternoon, she will board an airplane and fly to Tucson, AZ, where she will spend five days visiting with her daughter, Rachel, son-in-law, David, granddaughter, Parker, and other relatives and friends.

She shall send photographs from her iPhone, documenting the journey. I shall include them here when I receive them, so be certain to check back routinely to follow Laura's journey!

Laura is packing for her trip. The kitties apparently do not wish her to depart!

Laura is at the seminar, musing over the resources.

The first break, after the intro session.

Session 1: Organize your life.

It is time for Laura to have lunch!

Laura is at the Sacramento airport! Do not share your beverage with the pilot!

Laura is on the airplane! Tell the pilot to fly with great caution!

Lost, Number One with a Bullet, -and- To Serve and Protect

Lost - 75-year-old woman returns $100,000 found in restaurant
Number One with a Bullet - Musicians protest use of their song as weapons
To Serve and Protect - Border security official employs illegals to clean home

On this day in history: December 11, 1985 - Computer rental store owner Hugh Scrutton is killed outside his Sacramento business when he investigates a package left by the Unabomber. It's his first confirmed kill.

Born on this day in history: December 11, 1944 - Brenda Lee (1944– ) Born Brenda Mae Tarpley in Atlanta, Georgia, pop singer Brenda Lee recorded over five decades, beginning to sing at age 10 with Country & Western star Red Foley, and touring with stars like Patsy Cline and Mel Tillis. In 1959, Lee hit No.1 on rock charts with "Sweet Nothings." At 18, nicknamed "Little Miss Dynamite," she became a worldwide star.

Scripture of the Day: Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. — Romans 12:11

Video of the Day: Crazy Cat - submitted by Cindy

Imagine my surprise when I saw this custom Rolls Royce at 7-Eleven this morning! Click to enlarge.

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

We watched two episodes of "Shatner's Raw Nerve" last evening. I recorded these programs when they initially aired, but we had not previously found the time to view them. "Shatner's Raw Nerve" is William Shatner's own edgy and off-beat celebrity interview series. In each episode Shatner will attempt to probe his guest's most sensitive subjects and touch upon a raw nerve to explore life's most intriguing questions and unearth his guests' strange and unknown stories that are most surprising, revealing, funny, touching or bizarre.

Guests include fascinating figures from the pop culture universe such as Valerie Bertinelli, Tim Allen, Jenna Jameson, Jimmy Kimmel, Kelsey Grammer, Judge Judy and many, many more.

We were very impressed with Shatner's wit and interviewing style. We eagerly anticipate future episodes and highly recommend this new series.

Got Juice?, Mystery Diagnosis, -and- They're Here!

Got Juice? - Vegas cops talk of "getting O. J." on recording
Mystery Diagnosis - doctor prescribed painkillers for broken neck
They're Here! - VA town tries to prove existence of "ghost cats"

On this day in history: September 19, 1995 - The New York Times and the Washington Post publish the Unabomber's rambling, 35,000-word anti-technology screed, "Industrial Society And Its Future." In exchange, he promises to halt his bombing campaign.

Born on this day in history: September 19, 1964 - Trisha Yearwood (1964-) Born in Monticello, Georgia, country singer Trisha Yearwood began as a back-up singer, and won a recording contract in 1991. Her first album went double platinum, selling two million copies. Yearwood was named Top New Female Vocalist by the Academy of Country Music, and went on to win the Academy's Top Female Vocalist awards in 1997 and 1998.

Scripture of the Day: Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. - 1 Corinthians 9:19

Video of the Day: Talking Cat - submitted by Cindy

The socialist brain of a liberal Democrat! Click to enlarge.

Don't be afraid of the dark. Robert Cray said that. I agree: We should not fear the dark. We should fear only the Creator—not the creation.

While I do not fear the dark, I do dislike the dark! Summer is my favorite season. I like the warmth, the long days, and the short nights. I enjoy rising early and staying up late. As summer fades into fall, the days shorten significantly, and the nights become longer. Rising early loses its allure: It is dark!

The days are becoming shorter, the nights are becoming longer, and the warmth of summer is quickly mutating into the cool mornings and evenings of fall. I am reminded once again of my disdain for cold air and darkness.

I shall survive: Next summer is a mere 276 days away!

Fighting Back, No TLC, -and- Do As He Says

Fighting Back - kids chase lemonade stand robber, phone police
No TLC - women dressed as nurses target Florida shoppers
Do As He Says - Gore's electrical usage up 10% over last year

On this day in history: June 18, 1996 - Ted Kaczynski is indicted on ten criminal counts. He is suspected of being the Unabomber, who perpetrated 16 bomb attacks on people involved in technology.

Born on this day in history: June 18, 1942 - Paul McCartney (1942– ) Born in Liverpool, England, musician, songwriter and composer Paul McCartney found fame as one of the Fab Four Beatles. After the group?s 1970 breakup, he performed solo and with his own bands. In 1978, he was declared the most successful composer of all time, playing his 3000th concert in St Petersburg in 2004. McCartney was knighted in 1997.

Scripture of the Day: "But will God really dwell on earth with men? The heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built!" - 2 Chronicles 6:18

Video of the Day: Challenger: Faster than a Speeding Bullitt? - submitted by Darin

I saw this scene near Corning Lake this morning. Click to enlarge.

For dinner last evening, we had Johnsonville brat sandwiches. Laura grilled Johnsonville brats and Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts (to be used in a future meal). When the brats were nearly done, she split two in half and topped them with Provolone cheese. She toasted two sourdough buns on the grill. At the table, we added thinly-sliced red onion, Klausen Stackers, and hot dog mustard. Ruffles sour cream and onion potato chips accompanied the meal. It was delicious.

Crosstown Traffic, Heat of the Moment, -and- iRobbed

Crosstown Traffic - New Zealand drivers use blow-up dolls to avoid traffic regulations
Heat of the Moment - truckers face fines for idling rigs over 5 minutes
iRobbed - iPhones used for bait in Craigslist robberies

On this day in history: June 13, 1985 - Mailroom workers discover a bomb inside a suspicious parcel at Boeing, Inc.'s Fabrication Division in Auburn, Washington. After the police bomb squad disarms it, investigators discover the initials "FC" stamped on both caps, making it the first explosive device recovered intact from the Unabomber.

Born on this day in history: June 13, 1986 - Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen (1986-) Born in Sherman Oaks, CA, actress twins Mary-Kate and Ashley debuted at nine months old, sharing the role of Michelle on ABC sitcom "Full House," which ran for eight years. By 12, the girls had starred in home videos, feature films, multimedia entertainment and another ABC series, "Two of a Kind."

Scripture of the Day: Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. - Ephesians 6:13

Video of the Day: 120-watt Crate Guitar Amplifier

I sold my Fender SJ-64S acoustic guitar and bought a Crate FXT120 guitar amp

and a Samick Strat guitar.

When I am not touring with Sammy Hagar, I shall assist Laura by accompanying her as she rehearses the songs she performs with the worship team at Harvest Christian Center

Fighting Back, Law of the Land, -and- Mommy Dearest

Fighting Back - gunman shot, killed with own gun by store manager
Law of the Land - judge gives offenders choice: pay fine or donate blood
Mommy Dearest - woman shoots 8-year-old daughter in leg to win $1 bet

On this day in history: May 5, 1982 - Secretary Janet Smith in the computer science department at Vanderbilt University is injured when she opens a package from the Unabomber.

Born on this day in history: May 5, 1959 - Brian Williams (1959-) Born in Elmira, NY, TV news anchor Brian Williams began his career in Kansas before moving to local CBS outlet in New York City, where he won an Emmy for reporting on the stock market collapse. Climbing the ranks, he took over from Tom Brokaw as anchor of NBC Nightly News in 2004. Williams at first drew criticism for being stiff, but his acclaimed coverage of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 improved his image.

Scripture of the Day: And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. - Romans 5:5

Video of the Day:

David Gallo: Underwater Astonishment - submitted by Laura

Laura took this photograph of Sunday's grilled chicken and hot Italian sausage. Click to enlarge.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

The Weekend: The weekend was warm and sunny. We enjoyed leftover fettuccine with marinara sauce Friday evening. For Saturday's dinner, I grilled New York strip steaks, Jalapeño peppers, yellow squash, white mushrooms, and baby red potatoes. The steaks were excellent, and I grilled them perfectly—charring them nicely on the exterior and leaving them rare in the center.

Sunday's dinner was a mixed grill and rice with tomato, corn and peas. Laura grilled seven large Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts and five Johnsonville hot Italian sausages. She charred the chicken and sausages nicely then moved them away from the flame. She brushed the chicken and sausages with spicy barbecue sauce and turned several times. I placed a cup of Calrose rice, 2 cups of water, a handful of frozen corn kernels, a handful of frozen peas, 2 diced Roma tomatoes, ground black pepper, and Tony Chachere's More Spice in the rice cooker. The rice was wonderful. We shall make this tasty, easy-to-prepare side dish again soon.

Friday evening, we watched "Walk the Line" [2005) PG-13 Among the pantheon of great country singers, Johnny Cash (played here by Joaquin Phoenix) may just be the most enigmatic. James Mangold's film distills Cash's transformation from man to icon -- from his hardscrabble days on an Arkansas farm to Sun Records in Memphis, Tenn., where Cash finally found a way for his talent to come into its own. Reese Witherspoon plays his beloved June, alongside co-stars Robert Patrick and Shelby Lynne.] We had seen this movie previously, but we had not seen it in HD. I recorded it previously with our DVR. It is a wonderful movie, and I highly recommend it. Joaquin Phoenix gives an incredible performance as Johnny Cash, and Reese Witherspoon is stunning as June Carter.

Sunday evening, we watched "The Bourne Supremacy" [2004) PG-13 When a CIA sting in Berlin turns murderously wrong, everyone suspects it's the handiwork of Jason Bourne (Matt Damon). As the CIA hunts for their lost ex-killer Bourne, Bourne himself is pursued by a ruthless cartel bent on framing him up -- and leaving him dead. Franka Potente returns as Marie Helena Kreutz alongside Joan Allen as Agent Helen Landy.] We had seen this movie previously, but we had not seen it in HD. It is an exciting, well-produced movie, and I highly recommend it.

Fighting Back, Jaws of Death, -and- Meow!

Fighting Back - Houston pawn shop owner shoots man during holdup
Jaws of Death - woman finds 8-foot alligator in kitchen
Meow! - woman fights to keep nearly 150 cats at home

On this day in history: April 24, 1995 - The Unabomber strikes, killing a timber industry lobbyist. Gilbert Murray is killed in his Sacramento office, opening mail addressed to the man he replaced.

Born on this day in history: April 24, 1982 - Kelly Clarkson Biography (1982-) Singer, songwriter. Born Kelly Brianne Clarkson on April 24, 1982 in Burleson, Texas. Clarkson graduated from Burleson High School in 2000, where she sang in the school choir. After graduation, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue a music career.

Scripture of the Day: "Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you -- and even more. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him." - Mark 4:24-25

Video of the Day: Dodge Challenger - It's On!

Zeus stays abreast of the political scene—photographed by Laura. Click to enlarge.

The thunderstorm that was forecast for yesterday did not materialize. It was calm and sunny most of the day. There was a fierce wind in the early afternoon, but it abated quickly, and the evening was calm and relatively warm.

Today is sunny and beautiful. Forecasts are for mid-to-high 80-degree weather for the weekend. Let the grilling begin!

Fighting Back, Matters of Life and Death, -and- Sue Me!

Fighting Back marathon runner chases down burglar
Matters of Life and Death - Missouri must take inmates to abortion clinic
Sue Me! - German newspaper compares Cruise to Goebbels

On this day in history: January 23, 1998 - Montana hermit Ted Kaczynski admits to four Unabomber attacks, pleading guilty in in a federal plea bargain that spares him the death penalty, but denies him the right of appeal.

Born on this day in history: January 23, 1957 - Princess Caroline of Monaco (1957-) Princess Caroline Louise Margueritte, eldest daughter of Prince Rainier III of Monaco and Grace Kelly, the American actress who died in a car accident in 1982, is considered the most stable of the Grimaldi children, including brother Albert and younger sister Stephanie. Caroline still made headlines with various romantic relationships, including three difficult marriages, which resulted in four children. Caroline serves as Monaco's de facto first lady since her mother's death.

Scripture of the Day: For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. - 1 Peter 1:23

Video of the Day: First Day Jitters

The mystery of the disappearing ducks in the pond behing my office was solved yesterday! Click to enlarge.

Rain! The rain has returned. It appears that it rained throughout the night and early morning. The rain is relatively light, but it is constant. It is a bit warmer than it was yesterday, however. It is a toasty 38 degrees currently, and the low during the night was 35 degrees--significantly warmer than yesterday's low of 31 degrees.

Laura attended the annual Employee Appreciation Dinner at Sierra Nevada last evening. She received an award commemorating five years with the company. It does not seem as if it has been five years already that she has worked there. Time seems to be passing more quickly of late. Yesterday, I renewed the registrations for Mr. Yaris and Mr. Nitro online. It has been nearly a year since we purchased these vehicles. In fact, the 5th of February will be one year for Mr. Nitro, and Mr. Yaris will celebrate his birthday two days prior to that.

Fighting Back, Fighting Back Too, -and- Flying High

Fighting Back - hero guard: "It was me, the gunman, and God"
Fighting Back - off-duty constable kills robbery suspect
Flying High - man sets record for flight after being hit by car

On this day in history: December 11, 1985 - Computer rental store owner Hugh Scrutton is killed outside his Sacramento business when he investigates a package left by the Unabomber. It's his first confirmed kill.

Born on this day in history: December 11, 1944 - Brenda Lee (1944– ) Born Brenda Mae Tarpley in Atlanta, Georgia, pop singer Brenda Lee recorded over five decades, beginning to sing at age 10 with Country & Western star Red Foley, and touring with stars like Patsy Cline and Mel Tillis. In 1959, Lee hit No.1 on rock charts with "Sweet Nothings." At 18, nicknamed "Little Miss Dynamite," she became a worldwide star.

Scripture of the Day: "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14)

Video of the Day: Ninja Dance Party - submitted by Darin

Sheriff Joe Arpaio of Maricopa County, AZ, has a new Web site! Sheriff Joe Arpaio Click to enlarge.

Recommended Sites:
Nikon Photographer Forum - a free forum for photography enthusiasts
Corning California Net - a free message board for Corning, California
Olive Hut Blog - specials, olive news, recipes, and more

Willy the Tortoise RIVERSIDE, California - It was not exactly a high-speed chase. Willy the tortoise made a crawl for freedom this week, getting half a mile from the fenced yard where he lives in a doghouse.

Shelley Larsen figures the 200-pound shellback escaped after her 18-year-old son, Aaron, left a gate open Thursday.

"I don't think the public realizes how big and how very strong tortoises are," Welsh said. "The whole shelter was abuzz. Willy is the size of a small bathtub."

The department posted photos of Willy on its Web site and he was recognized by Shelley Larsen's 21-year-old daughter, Lisa. Willy was back home after fewer than six hours of freedom.

It was the third time Willy has gotten out since the family bought him at a pet store for $130 for Lisa's 10th birthday.

At the time, Willy could fit in the palm of a person's hand.

"We had no idea he'd get so big," said Shelley Larsen's husband, Robbie.

Willy is now so strong that he sometimes knocks down tables when he lumbers around their house in Rubidoux. And he can easily give rides to the Larsen family's nieces and nephews.

Given a tortoise's long life span, Robbie Larsen expects Willy will someday be giving rides to the sons and daughters of those nieces and nephews.