On this day in history: April 23, 1985 - The Coca-Cola Bottling Company announces that it has irrevocably changed the formula for its flagship beverage, unveiling "New Coke." The company stands firm on its decision until public pressure finally forces them to reintroduce the original drink, exactly 79 days later.
Born on this day in history: April 23, 1936 - Roy Orbison (1936 - 1988) Born in Vernon, TX, singer-songwriter Roy Orbison began playing at age 8 on radio stations, and had his first hit single, "Only The Lonely" (written for Elvis Presley), in 1960, followed by a succession of smash hits, including signature "Oh, Pretty Woman" (1964). Tributes to his music continue long after Orbison's sudden death from a heart attack.
Scripture of the Day: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. - Philippians 4:23
Video of the Day: Terry Tate - Get Out the Vote
Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while passing the park on the way to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.
Heat Wave: We are experiencing a heat wave. Weather forecasters say this heat wave will end today, and temperatures will drop by more than 20°! This will be a short-lived respite from the heat, however, since scorching, triple-digit temperatures will soon be the order of the day.
Yesterday, this was the temperature outside Mr. Nitro, as displayed by his exterior temperature probe. Fortunately, the inside temperature was cool and comfortable. Click to enlarge.
Heat of the Moment - "global warming" simply no longer happening Dog Fight - non-kosher hot dogs spark unholy war Crime and Punishment - teens facing possible 25-year sentence for brutal cat killing
On this day in history: March 23, 1997 - Heaven's Gate suicides leave 39 dead, all wearing Nike shoes.
Born on this day in history: March 23, 1908 - Joan Crawford (1908 - 1977) Born in San Antonio, TX, actress Joan Crawford began in silent and became a star in the 1930s and 1940s, winning an Oscar for "Mildred Pierce" (1945). After her death, adopted daughter Christine published a critical biography, "Mommie Dearest," which was filmed in 1981.
Scripture of the Day: Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!...For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen. - Romans 11:33-36
Video of the Day: Water
Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning. Click to enlarge.
iPhones: I ordered two iPhones. I intend for them to replace our Motorola RAZR cell phones and our HP iPAQs. Additionally, I intend to discontinue our land line.
The Weekend: The rain that was forecast for Saturday and Sunday did not arrive. It did rain briefly Saturday night, but otherwise the weekend was dry—albeit very windy and uncomfortably cold.
Friday evening, we enjoyed a Garlic Chicken pizza from California Pizza Kitchen. It was delicious. We watched the first four episodes of season 2 of "Boston Legal." We chortled merrily as we watched these episodes.
Saturday morning, I made sausage patties, potatoes O'Brien, fried eggs, and biscuits for brunch. It was an excellent meal.
I did not brave the wind Saturday. I grilled indoors—producing a nice charring on a package of Johnsonville brats. We made sandwiches with Colombo sourdough rolls, brats, sliced white onion, sliced Jalapeño, sliced cluster tomato, and condiments. Laura toasted the Colombo rolls under the broiler in the conventional oven while I grilled the brats. It was a very tasty meal.
During the day, we watched several episodes of "DEA" on Spike TV.
Saturday evening, we watched "Fireproof." This starts with Caleb, the fire captain, (Kirk Cameron) chewing out a trainee at the fire station for leaving his partner behind during a house fire. Caleb was most emphatic, you NEVER leave your partner behind. It then shows him going home and how horrible his married life is now. He argues with his wife Catherine (Erin Bethea), over money and how chores are divided (he does none). She fires back with his time on the computer, not family-friendly Web sites, and how he has saved $24,000 for his boat, not a common goal. Caleb calls his father who tells him he will come in the next day to see him. His dad does and tells him that he needs Jesus in his life and Caleb disagrees, but agrees to hold off on the divorce for 40 days. His dad promises to send him a package. The next day, Caleb gets a hand written book from his father called the Love Dare. The movie ends with them retaking their vows as Christians. We thoroughly enjoyed this movie, and I highly recommend it.
Sunday, following service at Harvest Christian Center, I made biscuits, sausage patties, and fried eggs.
During the day, we watched several episodes of "Planet Earth" on HD Theatre. This is an incredible series. I highly recommend it.
I braved the gale-force wind and grilled outdoors. I grilled two huge New York strip steaks until they were perfectly charred on the outside and rare in the center. I baked two large russet potatoes and made a vegetable dish, consisting of corn, thinly sliced carrot, julienned white onion, diced Jalapeño, and seasonings. We had sour cream with chopped chives on the potatoes. Laura used teriyaki sauce as a dipping sauce for her steak. I enjoyed wasabi with mine. We enjoyed an excellent bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. It was a wonderful meal.
Sunday evening, we watched "The Ultimate Gift." Drew Fuller plays Jason Stevens, the spoiled grandson of a deceased billionaire (James Garner) whose expectations from the will are put off while he is led through several tasks designed to make him a better person. Along the way, he meets and befriends a young girl named Emily, played by Abigail Breslin (just before "Little Miss Sunshine" hit the theatres and made her a big star). Her mother, Alexia, played by Ali Hillis. The movie is entertaining, albeit predictable, and evocative. I recommend it.
Pricey Pasta - bitter wife allegedly used $1000 bottle of wine to make sauce Heat of the Moment - climate scientists say 2008 coolest year of decade Never Too Old - 70-year-old woman gives birth
On this day in history: December 8, 1980 - Beatle John Lennon shot by a lunatic, Mark David Chapman, outside Lennon's apartment in New York City mere hours after receiving the Beatle's autograph.
Born on this day in history: December 8, 1943 - Jim Morrison (1943–71) Born in Melbourne, Florida, rock musician Jim Morrison and keyboard player Ray Manzerek formed rock band, The Doors (1965). With songs like "Light My Fire" (1967), the group hit it big in the 1960s. A controversial figure, Morrison died of a heart attack in Paris
Scripture of the Day: I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God. — Luke 12:8
Video of the Day: Fat Cat Watching TV, Sitting on the Couch - submitted by Cindy
Skateboarders honing their skills. Click to enlarge.
The fog returned over the weekend; but thankfully, it did not visit us today. It was cold all weekend—although it did not freeze. Temperatures were below 40° Saturday and Sunday morning. Reader Chris made me feel warmer when he spoke in an email communication of the snow and freezing weather he is experiencing in Michigan. I was reminded of one of the several reasons I live in California.
I took a walking tour of our yard Saturday morning—searching for creatures of which to make photographic studies. It was too cold, however: All the creatures were apparently sheltered.
Friday evening, we enjoyed huge baked Burbank Russet potatoes (a large brown-skinned, white-fleshed cultivar of potato), topped with cheddar cheese, chili, chopped white onion, and diced Jalapeños. They were excellent.
Saturday afternoon, I grilled three large T-bone steaks. Laura dry-rubbed them wonderfully with a variety of herbs and spices. I grilled them over a high flame—charring the exteriors, while leaving the centers rare. I baked two large Burbank Russet potatoes and finished them on the grill. That morning, I made slaw with sliced cabbage, grated carrots, mayonnaise, and rice wine vinegar. The meal was a delight, and the third T-bone remains for a future meal.
Sunday evening, we attended a Christmas party at the home of pastors Mike and Stephanie Sharp of Harvest Christian Center. The party was hosted by the Sharps for the leadership staff and department heads and coordinators. The party was wonderful. The Sharps are generous and gracious hosts.
The Good News - anonymous donor gives $50 million to translate bible Heat of the Moment - huge blunder discredits Gore's chief scientist No Trespassing! - teen attacked by a cougar when she and her boyfriend illegally entered wildlife collector's home
On this day in history: November 17, 1992 - Scaremongering "journalists" at Dateline NBC falsify a demonstration involving a GM truck exploding on impact. In reality the trucks do not explode on impact, and smarmy reporters do not always tell the truth.
Born on this day in history: November 17, 1942 - Martin Scorsese (1942 - ) Born in Flushing, New York, film director, writer and producer Martin Scorsese, is considered one of the foremost directors of his generation. His many films include "Taxi Driver" (1976), "Raging Bull" (1980) and "Gangs of New York" (2002). In 2004 he received the Directors Guild of America lifetime achievement award. Scorsese won his first Academy Award for best director for the film "The Departed" (2006).
Scripture of the Day: "Woe to the worthless shepherd, who deserts the flock! May the sword strike his arm and his right eye! May his arm be completely withered, his right eye totally blinded!" — Zechariah 11:17
Video of the Day: Top 10 Weird Animals - submitted by Darin
A dog attacks a Nikon D3! (NOT mine!) Click to enlarge.
Laura is home, resting. She was saved by the grace of God. Nothing else can explain what the doctors deemed to be a miracle, since they felt that the quantity of blood in her system was insufficient to sustain life! I took Laura to St. Elizabeth's Hospital last Thursday. She received transfusions Thursday and Friday, and I redeemed her Friday evening. She has been resting at home since then and growing stronger and feeling better each day. She thanks all who prayed for her!
As a special dinner last evening, I prepared New York strip steaks, giant prawns, and huge baked potatoes. In the morning, I made marinades for the prawns and steaks: I marinated de-veined giant prawns (tails removed) in extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, ground ginger, lemon pepper, powdered wasabi, granulated garlic, and fresh cilantro. I marinated the steaks in extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. I grilled the steaks and prawns over a high flame. The steaks were beautifully charred on the exterior, while the interior remained rare. The prawns' shells were charred, and the meat inside remained moist and succulent. I baked two huge Russet Burbank potatoes. At the table, we split the potatoes open and added I Can't Believe It's Not Butter, sour cream, chopped chives, ground black pepper, crushed red pepper, sea salt, ground Chile de Arbol, and ground Cayenne. Laura used teriyaki sauce as a condiment, and I enjoyed wasabi paste similarly. It was a delicious meal.
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
On this day in history: May 8, 1999 - Actress Dana Plato, who played Kimberly Drummond on Diff'rent Strokes, dies in Oklahoma of an overdose of Valium and Loritab. Just the previous day, Plato had appeared on the Howard Stern syndicated radio program claiming to be clean and sober.
Born on this day in history: May 8, 1884 - Harry S Truman (1884–1972) Born in Lamar, MO, 33rd President Harry Truman (1945–53) was elected to the U.S. Senate (1935–45), and gained national attention heading "The Truman Committee," which investigated wartime production. That gained him a spot as Franklin D. Roosevelt's new vice-president in 1944. When Roosevelt died, Truman became president, going on to win the close 1948 election. The "everyday American" surprised everyone by dropping the atom bombs on Japan, forming the post-war Marshall Plan and proposing the "Truman Doctrine" of Communist containment.
Scripture of the Day: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. - Romans 5:8
Video of the Day:Baraky - Barak Obama and Hillary Clinton in their own words! - submitted by Jeffrey
The many face of Hillary Clinton. Yikes! Click to enlarge.
Last evening, at Harvest Christian Center, a graduation ceremony for those who had completed The Lord's Table program supplanted the Bible class which is generally held on Wednesday evenings. Laura and I were among those who gave testimonies and received diplomas. It was a beautiful ceremony.
This weekend is the annual May Madness Corning Car Show. Friday evening, there will be burnouts (in front of the police station!) and a cruise. Saturday will feature burnout finals and a car show. It is an excellent event. If you find yourself near this area, I highly recommend that you attend this event.
Heat of the Moment - blizzard forces Earth Day event inside Gun Control - deputy accidentally shoots himself Gun Control 2 - man shoots himself during road-rage incident
On this day in history: April 22, 1915 - The German Army opens 5,700 canisters of chlorine gas upwind of French soldiers at Ypres. It is the first use of poison gas for military purposes.
Born on this day in history: April 22, 1937 - Jack Nicholson (1937– ) Born in Neptune, NJ, actor Jack Nicholson first hit big in a supporting role in "Easy Rider" (1969). His charisma and acute sense of humor have illuminated a wide range of characters in films as diverse as "Chinatown"(1974), "The Shining" (1980) and "Batman" (1989). He has earned several Oscars, notably for "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" (1975) and "Terms of Endearment" (1983). Nicholson has also written scripts and occasionally directs.
Scripture of the Day: You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds... - Ephesians 4:22-23
Video of the Day: Funny Cats 2 - submitted by Cindy
Here are photographs from Saturday's red beans and rice and baby back ribs dinner. The first photograph is of the base for the red beans and rice, the second photograph is after the red beans and rice have been added to the base, and the third photograph is of the ribs—just prior to removal from the grill. Laura took these photographs. Click to enlarge.
For dinner last evening, I made a delicious salad: I tore a head of red leaf lettuce into a large stainless-steel bowl. I added thinly sliced red onion, yellow squash, and red bell pepper. I cut 15 strips of cooked bacon into 1-inch lengths and scattered over the salad. I sliced 4 hard-boiled eggs and arranged the slices over the salad. I sliced 4 Roma tomatoes and arranged the slices over the salad. It was a wonderful salad.
To Serve and Protect - officer accused of 2nd career: robbing banks Trapped! - reality show held women against their will Heat of the Moment - cold temperatures freeze gardening season
On this day in history: April 14, 1865 - President Abraham Lincoln receives a cranial gunshot wound from the nation's most famous actor, John Wilkes Booth. Lincoln dies the following day.
Born on this day in history: April 14, 1977 - Sarah Michelle Gellar (1977-) Born in New York City, actress Sarah Michelle made her first TV movie in 1983. In 1993, she joined the cast of soap "All My Children," earning an Emmy, and then moved into leading films roles. In 1997, Gellar landed her star-making role on TV series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." She is now pursuing a film career.
Scripture of the Day: We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. - 1 Thessalonians 4:14
Video of the Day: Max Neptune and the Manacing Squid trailer
While driving to my office this morning, I detoured through a rural area and spotted this abandoned clown train. I shall have nightmares now, certainly! Click to enlarge.
Friday evening, we viewed "The Prestige" in Blu-ray. [At the dawn of the 20th century, rival magicians Robert Angier (Hugh Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Christian Bale) are desperate to reveal each other's secrets. Obsessed by the escalating competition, the two illusionists begin to perform increasingly risky tricks—which soon turn deadly. Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson and David Bowie also star in this taut psychological thriller from director Christopher Nolan.]
"The Prestige" is masterful storytelling, with superb direction, powerful performances from an excellent cast, awesome set and production design, and impressive cinematography.
"The Prestige" is difficult to place into any specific genre, since it blurs the fine line between mystery, drama, suspense, and fantasy. The story becomes a never-ending stream of wonder for the mind, and it is impossible to tell exactly where the story is going to lead next.
The first half of "The Prestige" is exciting and captures the viewer's attention and holds it firmly. The second half of the film, unfortunately, becomes progressively convoluted, confusing, and tedious. By the end of the film, what was once excitement has descended into ennui. I do not recommend this movie.
Saturday evening, we watched "I Am Legend" on Blu-ray [A terrible virus has spread across the planet and turned the human race into bloodthirsty monsters. Mankind's only hope for survival is scientist Robert Neville (Will Smith), the one person left unaffected by the epidemic. When he's not fighting for his life against the hordes of the infected, Neville searches for a cure to reverse the virus's effects—all the while battling his own doubt and despair as he spends every day alone.]
"I Am Legend" is a truly scary movie, because of the incredible realism. The cinematography is excellent. The set design is awesome. The special effects are impressive. Smith's portrayal of despair and borderline insanity of three years of seclusion add to the overall effect. Suspense scenes climax unexpectedly—greatly enhancing the overall scare factor.
"I Am Legend" overall is an excellent movie, and I highly recommend it.
To Serve and Protect - guard watches TV while inmate beaten to death I Spy - nearly quarter of married couples snoop on each other Heat of the Moment - Los Angeles considering global-warming tax
On this day in history: April 8, 1994 - Kurt Cobain's body is found 3 days after committing suicide with a shotgun.
Born on this day in history: April 8, 1968 - Patricia Arquette (1968-) Born in Chicago, IL, daughter of actor Lewis Arquette, actress Patricia Arquette grew up on a Virginia commune, alongside siblings Rosanna, Richmond, Alexis and David. At age 15, she ran away to pursue acting. In 2004, Arquette landed the role of psychic Allison DuBois on hit TV show "Medium," which earned her an Emmy.
Scripture of the Day: Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. - James 4:7-8/
In defiance of statistical improbability of election, Hillary orders presidential jet. Click to enlarge.
Warm Weather! The weather forecasts for this week are excellent. The weather has been warm and dry, and this is predicted to continue. Today is forecast to be 70 degrees, and it is expected that temperatures will reach 78 degrees on Thursday. I am wearing shorts for the first time this year in celebration of the weather.
Yesterday was a fast day on our food calendar. The 24-hour fast ended at 7 PM. For dinner, we had a salad of baby spinach leaves, sliced (previously grilled) chicken breast, sliced red onion, asparagus (previously grilled), sliced avocado, sliced celery, sliced white mushrooms, and cubed Roma tomatoes. I made a dressing using extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, Tony Chachere's More Spice, lime juice, and wasabi paste. It was a delicious meal.
We watched "Disturbia" again and thoroughly enjoyed it. "Disturbia" and "Cars" begin their journey back to Netflix today. New Blu-ray DVDs shall arrive in time for weekend viewing.
Firepower - police in rising arms race with crooks Shameless - no one in family has worked in 3 generations Heat of the Moment - scientist says global warming ended 10 years ago
On this day in history: March 24, 1989 - Exxon tanker Valdez, piloted by a drunk captain, strikes a well-charted reef at Prince William sound, spilling 11 million gallons of crude oil.
Born on this day in history: March 24, 1930 - Steve McQueen (1930–80) Born in Slater, MO, actor Steve McQueen became famous in TV Western Wanted Dead or Alive (1958), which led to a co-starring role in The Magnificent Seven (1960). He became the archetypal 1960s cinema hero/rebel.
Scripture of the Day: So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. - Galatians 3:24
Video of the Day: Crossword Puzzle Champion Completes Puzzle in Record Time - submitted by Amber
I spotted this bumper sticker on the way to my office this morning. Click to enlarge.
The weather has been beautiful for the last several days. Afternoon temperatures have been in the upper 70s, the sun has been bright, the sky has been blue and clear, and the birds have been singing. Today promises to offer more of this same wonderful weather.
I installed theatre blackout drapes in our living room Saturday morning. Later that day, an installer from DirecTV replaced our dish with a new dual-feed HDTV dish and installed a HD receiver/DVR. The image quality on the Vizio 47" LCD HDTV is stellar. We enjoyed watching HD programming Saturday evening and Sunday. I realize that most of you have probably been enjoying HD programming for some time, but this is new and exciting for us. We have been living in the dark ages of television technology. Later this week, we shall add a Sony Blu-Ray DVD player to our system.
Heat of the Moment - scientists meet in NYC to challenge Gore, UN Quiet Please! - six days in county jail for overdue books Swoop! - vultures ripping apart roofs, chewing cars, in Florida
On this day in history: March 5, 1982 - John Belushi found dead at the Chateau Marmont in Hollywood from a cocaine and heroin overdose. A sketchy woman, Cathy Smith, is later charged with administering the fatal injections.
Born on this day in history: March 5, 1958 - Andy Gibb (1958-1988) Born in Manchester, England, youngest of the Gibb Brothers, singer Andy Gibb belongs to the world-famous Bee Gees group. The group personifies 1970s disco music, and has sold more than 100 million records.
Scripture of the Day: Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6
Video of the Day: Leopard Looks After a Baby Baboon - submitted by Cindy
It was a beautiful morning, so I decided to take a drive before going to my office. I encountered this scene in the foothills near Corning. Click to enlarge.
Laura was feeling much better and went to work yesterday morning. As the day progressed, however, she became increasingly ill and left early. She is staying home today. I pray for her speedy recovery.
The sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, and the birds are singing. Great Scott, could this be an early spring? While the concept is a pleasant one, certainly, it is highly unlikely that we have seen the last of the cold, wet weather. We shall, however, enjoy this beautiful weather while it lasts!
I have been watching a series on The Science Channel entitled "Download: The True Story of the Internet." It is an interesting series. I find it particularly interesting, since I clearly recall the events from my personal experience.
Heat of the Moment - Weather Channel founder advocates suing Al Gore over "the fraud of global warming" Moms Gone Wild - women brawl at Chuck E. Cheese over video game Be Afraid - town to vote on Silly String ban
On this day in history: March 4, 1861 - The "Stars and Bars" is formally adopted as the flag of the Confederate States of America.
Born on this day in history: March 4, 1958 - Patricia Heaton (1958-) Born in Bay Village, Oh., actress Patricia Heaton made her Broadway debut in gospel musical "Don't Get God Started." In 1996, she landed the role of Debra Barone on hit sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond," which won her an Emmy. Heaton has now branched out into film.
Scripture of the Day: When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. - Colossians 3:4
Video of the Day: Cute Baby Tiger - submitted by Cindy
CHOMP! Click to enlarge.
This promises to be yet another beautiful day! The sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, and the birds are singing loudly.
I have suffered with a cold for the last several days. I am nearly recovered now, but it was an unpleasant bout. This morning, Laura exhibited symptoms of this affliction and is currently evaluating whether to go to work or stay home and rest. I pray that she is quickly fully recovered.
Update - 7:30 AM: Laura just called and said she is feeling better and is going to work. She prayed for healing (as did I, of course), and she said that the Holy Spirit prompted her to walk out in faith that she would be healed!
Heat of the Moment - Sweden to study belching cows Taxman - pastor asks IRS to investigate his own church Stupid Criminals - burglar called taxi from victim's home phone
On this day in history: January 22, 1918 - Manitoba, Canada film censor board decides to ban comedies, on the grounds that they make audiences "too frivolous."
Born on this day in history: January 22, 1965 - Diane Lane (1965-) Born in New York City, actress Diane Lane began her film career at age 13, opposite Sir Lawrence Olivier in "A Little Romance" (1979). She caught the attention of director Francis Ford Coppola, who cast her in a number of films including "The Outsiders" (1983), opposite Matt Dillon. Lane has gone on to star in films ever since.
Scripture of the Day: Once you were alienated from God ... but now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation. - Colossians 1:22
Video of the Day: Model Rocket Crashes into Own Builder's Car
I spotted this bumper sticker on the way to the office this morning. Click to enlarge.
Cold but dry! It is very cold this morning, but it is dry. There is no moisture, hence there was no frost on Mr. Nitro this morning. It rained heavily throughout the night Sunday and continued through mid-morning yesterday, but it is dry today. It is cold, and the wind accentuates the cold greatly.
The television in my office appears to be expiring: The last several days, the picture has faded several times. This morning, it faded and refuses to return. Whatever shall I do? Only time will answer this question.
Heat of the Moment - warning: vacate room when CFL bulb breaks Drive My Car - GM predicts driver-less cars in 10 years Hot! - Chicago tavern makes wings with Red Savina peppers
On this day in history: January 7, 1961 - Young hoodlum Al Pacino arrested for carrying a concealed weapon. He and his compatriots were driving around a suburb of Providence RI, in the middle of the night, wearing masks and gloves.
Born on this day in history: January 7, 1964 - Nicolas Cage (1964-) Born Nicholas Coppola on January 7, 1964, in Long Beach, California, to choreographer Joy Vogelsang and literature professor August Coppola. Cage has two older brothers, Marc and Christopher. He is the nephew of film director Francis Ford Coppola and, as a youth, visited his uncle often at his San Francisco home. At age 15, Cage fell in love with acting during a summer class at the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco. He dropped out of Beverly Hills High School to pursue an acting career, making his debut on television in 1981. He changed his name to Nicolas Cage as a way to separate his identity from that of his famous uncle. He chose the name "Cage" as a tribute to comic-book superhero Luke Cage.
Scripture of the Day: "Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ." - Galatians 4:4-7
Video of the Day: Gumball 3000 - submitted by Frank
Return to the Office: I returned to my office this morning, following a power outage that affected most of downtown Corning around 7:30 AM last Friday. All appears to be well. When I arrived here, the the Fox News Channel was on the video system and Phaedra (my main system) was running—awaiting my log-on. All seems well. The other systems are functioning well. The sky is clear, the streets are dry, and birds are singing. Now, I must accomplish all that I was unable to do Friday because of the power outage.
Heat of the Moment - Daytona Beach, Florida braces for snow Cold Case File - FBI to re-examine D.B. Cooper skyjacking Inked - men shoot themselves while tracing gun for tattoo design
On this day in history: January 2, 1995 - Marion Barry inaugurated as mayor of Washington, D.C., four years after leaving the office in disgrace to serve a six-month sentence for smoking crack.
Born on this day in history: January 2, 1969 - (1969-) Born in Walnut Creek, CA, model Christy Turlington got her start by chance when a photographer snapped a photo of her on horseback and it landed at a modeling agency. Today, she has appeared on more than 300 magazine covers and is best known for work for Calvin Klein and Georgio Armani. Turlington is married to actor-filmmaker Edward Burns and has two children.
Scripture of the Day: "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." (Psalm 90:12)
Video of the Day: Adaptability
Here is an available-light photograph taken with a Nikon D3 DSLR camera. I did not take this photograph. I wish I had taken this photograph! Click to enlarge.
Well, good morning! Welcome to 2008! I hope this is a glorious year for everyone!
Cell Phone Distraction: I have long railed against people who talk on their cell phones while driving. I have seen several written reports and one television program which documented the findings regarding the distraction cell phones cause to those who use them while driving. I have personally experienced many instances of people using cell phones while driving and appearing to focus more on their conversations than their driving. I have had one near collision because of my proximity to a cell-phone-using driver.
I am pleased to see the new DMV regulations regarding cell-phone use while driving. I posted three threads in the Main forum today regarding this. HOWEVER, this afternoon I experienced a cell-phone user that easily out-distances all others I have encountered--IN THE MARKET! I use my cell phone perhaps once a month, and I turn it on only when I intend to make a call. It is difficult for me to imagine such a burning desire--let alone a NEED--to use a cell phone while driving, unless one is lost or late for an appointment, of course. I do not recall EVER using my cell phone in the market. I suppose it could prove helpful for asking a spouse's opinion regarding dinner plans, for example, but I have never used my cell phone in the market.
As I was shopping at Sav-Mor Foods shortly after 2 PM today, I rounded an aisle with my cart, saw a woman headed in my direction with her cart, and moved to the far right of the aisle so she would have room to pass. I saw that she was talking on her cell phone. She was absorbed in conversation and pushed her cart along, seemingly oblivious of the items shelved in that aisle. As she neared me, she suddenly began to fling her free hand about--gesticulating and cursing loudly into the cell phone. She reapplied her hand to the cart, pushed it ahead violently, swerved to her left, crashed solidly into my cart, and gave me a scowling glance! As if the collision were MY fault! She did not apologize. She simply swung her cart about, disentangling it from mine, and continued, still chatting on the cell phone.
"Excuse me," I said. She stared at me, obviously wondering why I was talking to her. She gave me a blank stare, and I continued, "What make, model, and color vehicle do you drive?" "Why?" she asked. "I wish to be ever-vigilant for this vehicle. I wish to ensure that I never occupy the same roadway as you. You have demonstrated your inability to successfully maneuver a shopping cart. I have no desire to fall victim to your lack of ability to maneuver a motor vehicle." She cursed at me. I continued, completing my shopping.
[While I slept] I drove to Harvest Christian Center at 8:15 AM. Laura had been there since 7:30 AM, rehearsing with the worship team. I sat in the seat adjacent to the seat where Laura had positioned her Bible and notebook. I took my HP iPAQ from my pocket and opened QuickVerse, in anticipation of using it during the service. I then opened Mah Jongg and played while listening to the worship rehearsal.
Suddenly, I was aware that it was no longer worship rehearsal. Worship had begun, and everyone was standing, except me. I returned my iPAQ to my pocket and stood. As worship was ending, a stranger to me appeared at the podium, placed a Bible on the podium, opened the Bible, and looked out into the audience. The stranger wore a dark, three-piece suit. The coat was much longer than that of a standard suit. It seemed in the tradition of coats favored by traditional evangelists of the early 1900s. The stranger gave a powerful sermon--the basis of which was the necessity for Christians to spread the Good News.
I awakened, thinking this to be an unusual dream. I forgot the dream, as I went about my morning. Laura left for her worship rehearsal. I showered and dressed and drove to the church.
I sat in the seat adjacent to where Laura had placed her Bible and notebook. I took my HP iPAQ from my pocket and opened QuickVerse. There was no time for game-playing. I placed the iPAQ back in my pocket. Pastor Nick opened the service. Worship followed. Pastor Rob came to the podium, without the wireless microphone he generally uses. Following an award to Matt, who is leaving to begin studies at a Christian college in Texas, a slide show of photographs of Matt began. During this slide show, I noticed a stranger in the front center row. He was wearing a wireless microphone. He was dressed in a dark, three-piece suit. The suit coat was long--like that worn by evangelists in the early 1900s.
Pastor Rob introduced the stranger as Rev. Bobby Nott and said that he had started Harvest Christian Center. Rev. Nott gave a very spirited sermon. He spoke of the necessity for Christians to disciple those who had not heard the Good News.
