Somebody's Watching You, Animal Kingdom, -and- Don't Worry Be Hoppy

In the News Today

Somebody's Watching You - Government surveillance crackdown on Internet goes into overdrive

Animal Kingdom - Scientists puzzled why Alaska polar bears are losing their fur

Don't Worry Be Hoppy - Florida police pose as giant bunnies to catch illegal drivers

Technology in the News Today

NYC Phone Booths to Become "Smart Screen" Stations

YouTube Founders Building Mysterious Magazine Publishing App

Hands On With Max Payne 3

Born on this Day in History: April 9, 1954 - After his breakout role in 1979’s Breaking Away, Dennis Quaid never looked back, starring in a wide variety of films ranging from huge hits (1983’s The Right Stuff) to disappointments (1983’s Jaws 3-D). Quaid found renewed success in the 1990s with such films as Any Given Sunday, Frequency, and Far from Heaven, for which he was named Best Supporting Actor by the New York Film Critics Circle.

On this Day in History: April 9, 1992 - Former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega convicted of drug trafficking, money laundering, and racketeering by a federal court in Miami.

Scripture of the Day

Video of the Day





Walmart People - Click to enlarge

Somebody's Watching You, Food Fight, -and- Zap!

Somebody's Watching You - woman claims Dell tech turned on her Web cam and spied on her during service call
Food Fight - man gets day in jail for throwing taco at Taco Bell manager
Zap! - ray guns real: U.S. military sets sights on laser weapons

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 - ) 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 the 1983 films The Outsiders and Rumble Fish. Her roles in Unfaithful (2002) and Under the Tuscan
Sun (2003) earned her Oscar and Golden Globe nods.

Scripture of the Day: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds;
and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." - Matthew 7:7-8

Video of the Day: How to Eat Sushi - submitted by Darin

Cats can be so helpful! Click to enlarge.

The Weather
The wind and rain were absent when I arose this morning at 4 AM. They have not reappeared. Praise God! The ground, rivers, streams, and creeks need a respite from the rain in order to recover. Flood warnings for this area that were in place yesterday have been rescinded! While more storms are forecast soon, today might remain dry, and tomorrow is predicted to be sunny.

Laura
Laura returned to work today. She still feels most unwell and continues to suffer greatly from a particularly nasty bout of flu. She thanks everyone for their prayers.

Technology News
Mozilla releases Firefox 3.6
Tour the new Firefox 3.6
Microsoft's IE patch plugs Aurora hole, seven others
RockYou hack reveals worst 20 passwords
Video games blamed for return of rickets
Yelp serves up iPhone alternative reality (video)
Router glitch cripples California DMV network
Facebook plugs friends list mobile leak

Come Fly with Me, Stupid Criminals, -and- Somebody's Watching You

Come Fly with Me - Air Canada to permit pets as hand luggage
Stupid Criminals - man breaks into Maine restaurant, eats lobster, drinks wine, falls asleep
Somebody's Watching You - FTC plans to monitor blogs for claims, payments

On this day in history: June 23, 1611 - Believing there to be a secret stash of food hidden aboard ship, the mutinous crew of Henry Hudson's fourth voyage sets Henry, his son, and seven loyal shipmates adrift in an open boat on the Atlantic Ocean. They are never heard from again.

Born on this day in history: June 23, 1929 - June Carter Cash (1929-2003) Born in Maces Springs, VA, daughter of Ezra and Mother Maybelle Carter, June Carter belonged to the first family of country music. She and sisters Helen and Anita performed as the Carter Sisters. Carter performed with Johnny Cash and the two married in 1968. After semi-retirement, she began recording again in 1999, winning two Grammys. Carter died in Nashville, TN.

Scripture of the Day: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 6:23

Video of the Day: Digital TV Converter Hack - submitted by Jay

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this sign while driving to my office this morning!

New Grill

Our grill is very quickly approaching the end of its usefulness. I replaced the burner a few years ago, and it is due to be replaced again. Since the grill is eight years old and is literally falling apart in every area, I believe the most efficacious thing would be to replace it.

I have decided that the new grill must have an all stainless-steel intrior—the grill, burners, etc., must all of be high-grade stainless-steel construction. The exterior may be stainless steel as well, but this is not a necessity.

We have recently seen infra red grills on the Food TV Network. We have no knowledge of these other than what we saw there. I shall investigate them further, of course, but any input from readers would be greatly appreciated. My inclination leads me toward a Weber stainless-steel unit. I am, however, eager for input from others!

To Protect and Serve, Somebody's Watching You, -and- Stars and Stripes Forever

To Protect and Serve - failing marriage leads to loss of police badge
Somebody's Watching You - FCC claims right to enter homes without warrants
Stars and Stripes Forever - American flag yanked from work cubicle

On this day in history: May 28, 1987 - German teenager Matthias Rust lands his Cessna in Moscow's Red Square, buzzing the Kremlin on the way in. He serves 18 months in prison for this prank, which also costs the commander of the Soviet Air Command his job.

Born on this day in history: May 28, 1944 - Rudolph Giuliani (1944 - ) Born in New York City, former Mayor of New York Rudolph Giuliani (1993–2001) was U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York (1983–9), before being elected New York mayor. Giuliani is best known for his leadership in the aftermath of the terrorist attack on New York on September 11, 2001. He was awarded an honorary knighthood by the UK in 2002.

Scripture of the Day: Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. — Proverbs 31:8

Video of the Day: Zombieville USA iPhone App Review

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this laughing kitty! He was frolicking behind my office as I parked Mr. Nitro there this morning. I gave him and his companion a saucer of non-fat milk. Click to enlarge.

Zombieville USA

If you have an iPhone or iPod Touch and have not played Zombieville USA, you are missing one of the greatest diversions available to you! Game play is fast and furious, and no one complains when you kill a zombie! The lite (free) version has only one level, but it is very enjoyable and highly addictive. Laura played the free version until she easily made it through the first level. She then longed for the full game, and I could not deny her. At $1.99, the full version is a real bargain. Take a look at today's video to see some of the action you will encounter in this game, or—better yet—download the free version. I promise you if you play the free version you will quickly find yourself traipsing over to the App Store for the full version!

Somebody's Watching You, Never Too Young, -and- Fruitcakery

Somebody's Watching You - police use GPS to track suspects despite murky law
Never Too Young - New York toddler is tiny pool shark
Fruitcakery - Scientologists in France to go on trial for fraud

On this day in history: May 26, 1960 - America's UN Ambassador Henry Cabot Lodge charges the Soviets with having bugged the Moscow embassy. He shows off a large wooden carving of the United States seal which had been hollowed out to conceal a sophisticated resonant cavity transmitter. Less than 30 years later a newly-rebuilt Moscow embassy is determined to be "structurally riddled with eavesdropping devices."

Born on this day in history: May 26, 1907 - John Wayne (1907 - 1979) Film actor, born in Winterset, Iowa, USA. After a succession of small parts in low-budget films and serials, he achieved stardom as the Ringo Kid in "Stagecoach" (1939).

Scripture of the Day: "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." — Jeremiah 33:3

Video of the Day: Crazy Cat Attacking Spuds Dog - submitted by Cindy

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene as I passed the lake while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

NEWS UPDATE - 10:01 AM CA Supreme Court upholds gay marriage ban!

Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend has ended. It is time to return to the workday routine and cast off the tendrils of leisure that bound me during that period. This is a difficult task. I so enjoyed three days of doing virtually nothing that I find myself missing doing so greatly! Oh, well, back to the grind go I!

What otherwise might have been a relatively serene drive to my office this morning (a five-block drive when the most direct route is taken) became relatively nightmarish when I remembered that I needed to fuel Mr. Nitro. Initially, I was very pleased when I saw a spot was available at the pumps at Valero (a block from our house). The serenity became a frighteningly gruesome event when I saw the price of fuel: $2.67 per gallon for 87 octane (the vintage Mr. Nitro prefers). Yikes! Mr. Nitro was most thirsty, and it took 17.281 gallons of fuel (at a cost of $48.02) to slake Mr. Nitro's thirst!

Other than shopping and grilling, we did little over the long weekend. Images from our grilling adventures can be viewed on my iPhone photo blog. There is a link in the Links section of this blog that will take you there.

You've Got to Know When to Fold, Keep Your Eyes on the Road, -and- Somebody's Watching You

You've Go to Know When to Fold - woman wants husband to stop gambling, tells casino he is coming to bomb it
Keep Your Eyes on the Road - operator texting girlfriend at time of
trolley crash
Somebody's Watching You - court upholds warrantless GPS tracking by police

On this day in history: May 11, 1907 - A derailment outside Lompoc, California kills 32 Shriners, when their chartered train jumps off the tracks at a switch near Surf Depot.

Born on this day in history: May 11, 1893 - Martha Graham (1893 - 1991) Born in Allegheny (now Pittsburgh), PA, dancer and choreographer Martha Graham gave her first solo recital in 1926 in New York. From then on, Graham developed a radically new approach to dance that tapped feelings and psychology. By the 1950s, she was internationally recognized as the leading American choreographer of interpretive dancing. Demanding and autocratic, Graham inspired a devoted following.

Scripture of the Day: "But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you." - Luke 6:27

Video of the Day: Weekend Project: $10 Pseudoscope - submitted by Danica

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Phaedra Is No More! My main system here at my office, Phaedra, was dead when I arrived here this morning. I was unable to revive her. I am using my HP notebook for now, and the Web cam is not compatible with Windows Vista Ultimate, so for the present, visitors will see the last image taken last Friday!

Car Show
Here are a few images from last weekend's Corning Car Show—May Madness:

You Want Gastro with That?, Law of the Land, -and- Somebody's Watching You

You Want Gastro with That? - filthy McDonald's caught on video
Law of the Land - Saudi judge upholds 47-year-old man's marriage to 8-year-old girl
Somebody's Watching You - microchip to tell if you have taken your pills

On this day in history: April 13, 1981 - Washington Post reporter Janet Cooke wins a Pulitzer Prize for her story about Jimmy, an 8 year old heroin addict. Strangely, police could find no trace of this boy. And this was one of those investigative journalism Pulitzers, not a fiction Pulitzer, so she was forced to return the award two days later. Cooke later clerked part-time at a department store cosmetics counter in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Born on this day in history: April 13, 1743 - Thomas Jefferson (1743 - 1826) Born in Albermarle Co., VA, 3rd President Thomas Jefferson (1801-9) helped draft the Declaration of Independence (adopted July 4, 1776). In 1789, George Washington appointed him secretary of state, and, in 1796, he was elected vice-president under Federalist John Adams. In 1797, Jefferson won the presidency, narrowly beating Aaron Burr. In his day, Jefferson was charged with everything from godlessness to fathering a child with his black servant girl. Today, he is considered one of America's greatest forefathers.

Scripture of the Day: And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:19

Video of the Day: iPhone OS 3.0

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this sign while walking around the lake this morning! Click to enlarge.

New Site! I created a new Web site over the weekend: Now See This - Random Photographs from My iPhone. This is a site I created with the sole purpose of having fun with my iPhone camera. Visit it, and take a peek into my life!

The Weekend

Saturday morning, we enjoyed a brunch. We had potatoes O'Brien, New York hot Italian sausage patties, and fried eggs.

Saturday evening, we enjoyed a succulent pork tenderloin. I grilled the tenderloin and made a batch of Cajun red beans. It was a delightful meal. Leftovers followed Laura to Chico this morning.

Sunday morning, we attended Easter Sunday service at Harvest Christian Center.

Sunday evening, I grilled giant prawns. I removed the tails and marinated the prawns in extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cayenne pepper, lime juice, and sea salt. I then grilled them over a high flame.

I made Asian noodle salad to accompany the prawns. I used four packages of ramen noodles and mixed in chopped green onions, sliced celery, diced red bell pepper, kernel corn, parsley flakes, sea salt, ground black pepper, ground cayenne pepper, ground ginger, granulated garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, and the seasoning packets from the ramen packages. It was a delicious accompaniment to the grilled prawns.

An excellent bottle of Indian Springs Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc accompanied this incredible Easter dinner.

All in the Family, Armed and Dangerous, -and- Somebody's Watching You

All in the Family - advertisers back away from "Family Guy" raunch
Armed and Dangerous - police chief arrested after using taser on wife
Somebody's Watching You - Web cam catches burglars in the act

On this day in history: April 10, 2003 - FBI agents raid the Noonday, Texas home of avowed white supremacist William Joseph Krar. Upon searching the domicile and some rented storage units, the agents turn up an arsenal including briefcase bombs with remote-controlled detonators, full-auto machine guns, silencers, nearly 500,000 rounds of ammunition, a 1953 military land mine, more than 800 grams of sodium cyanide, and a copy of "The Turner Diaries." Krar later receives
11 years for possession of a dangerous chemical weapon.

Born on this day in history: April 10, 1984 - Mandy Moore (1984-) Born Amanda Leigh Moore in Nashua, NH, raised in Orlando, FL, singer and actor Mandy Moore had a big hit in 1999, "Candy," followed by album "I Wanna Be With You" (2002). Moore has parlayed music success into an acting career.

Scripture of the Day: For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he
appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. - 1 Corinthians 15:3-5

Video of the Day: Easter Gospel "Sing Alleluia"

Imagine my surprise when I stopped at the marina this morning to check on my boat and encountered this scene! Click to enlarge.

Somebody's Watching You, Weapons of Choice, -and- The Worm Turns

Somebody's Watching You - new cameras in police cruisers can scan thousands of license plates daily
Weapons of Choice - South Dakota gun owners glad to see waiting period go
The Worm Turns - Conflicter worm coming April 1

On this day in history: March 27, 1866 - Patent for a urinal is granted to Andrew Rankin.

Born on this day in history: March 27, 1963 - Quentin Tarantino (1963- ) Born in Knoxville, TN, filmmaker Quentin Tarantino sold scripts to fund production of "Reservoir Dogs" (1992), in which he was director, screenwriter and actor. Its success, and successor "Pulp Fiction" (1994), which won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, brought him celebrity status.

Scripture of the Day: I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. - Romans 8:18

Video of the Day: Will It Blend? - iPhone 3G - submitted by Cindy

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while passing the lake on the way to my office! Click to enlarge.

Last Evening's Dinner: For dinner last evening, I made Sautéed Chicken Livers with Green Onions over Rice. I washed and dried a container of Foster Farms chicken livers. I seasoned a container of Mexican bread crumbs with adobo seasoning, granulated garlic, and a blend of ground chile de arbol and ground Cayenne. I poured the seasoned bread crumbs into a large Glad container, added the chicken livers, placed the lid on the container, and shook to thoroughly coat the chicken livers. I prepared a cup (dry) of Jasmine rice in the electric rice cooker. I sautéed the chicken livers in extra-virgin olive oil. When the chicken livers were fully cooked, I tossed chopped green onions over them, turned off the burner, and allowed the livers and onions to rest for two minutes. Laura spread the cooked rice on a serving platter. She placed the chicken livers and onions atop the rice and drizzled the olive oil remaining in the sauté pan over this. It was a very delicious meal.

Somebody's Watching You, Flying High, -and- Stupid Criminals

Somebody's Watching You - Google offers free software to track people
Flying High - passengers remove totally drunk pilot
Stupid Criminals - 9-1-1 caller puts police dispatcher on hold to make a drug deal, lands in jail

On this day in history: February 4, 1983 - Karen Carpenter dies of anorexia nervosa. She frequently took laxatives and induced vomiting to prevent weight gain. At the time of her death she was pencil thin.

Born on this day in history: February 4, 1913 - Rosa Parks (1913-2005) Born in Tuskegee, AL, civil rights advocate Rosa Parks was a community activist best known for refusing to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, which resulted in the famous bus boycott led by Martin Luther King Jr. (1955–6). Parks is honored as the "mother" of the civil rights movement.

Scripture of the Day: This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. — 1 John 4:10

Video of the Day: Flying Motorcycle - submitted by Darin

I happened upon this scene yesterday afternoon while driving home from my office. It was a beautiful afternoon, and I decided to take the scenic route—around the lake and past the park. Imagine my surprise when I encountered this makeshift hot tub! Click to enlarge.

As many of you know, I maintain a list called "The Ultimate List of Car Songs." (There is a link to this in the Links section, below the Web cam image.) Yesterday, I received a submission email that contained four song titles and artists' names. As I always do when I receive submissions for this list with which I am unfamiliar, I performed Google searches for the songs. They were all songs, and the artists' names supplied by the submitter were correct. However, none of the four songs refer to an automobile in any way. I emailed the submitter, thanked her for her interest in the list, and explained that her submissions did not meet the requirements of the list, since they were not songs about cars. She replied saying that she felt it was discriminatory to exclude songs from the list strictly on the basis of their not being car songs. At first, I thought this was a joke. Several emails later, I had no option but to accept the validity of the woman's proposal. I said, "I believe that this issue would best be resolved—and the concept you propose best served—were you to begin your own list of non-car songs! I have not received a reply.

His Dishonor, Somebody's Watching You, -and- To Serve and Protect

His Dishonor - judge uses vulgar, racist language as he is charged
Somebody's Watching You - Swiss police spy marijuana field with Google Earth
To Serve and Protect - university police chief caught in online sting

On this day in history: January 30, 1968 - North Vietnam launches the Tet Offensive, in which they suffer a defeat and 46,000 dead, but shocks the complacent American television viewer who had been led to believe the war was won.

Born on this day in history: January 30, 1931 - Gene Hackman (1931- ) Born in San Bernardino, CA, actor Gene Hackman made it big in "Bonnie and Clyde" (1967). He went on to win an Oscar for "The French Connection" (1971), and has been making blockbuster movies ever since.

Scripture of the Day: Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. - Proverbs 19:21

Video of the Day: Bus Races - submitted by Darin

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this school bus on the way to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

It appears that the freezing weather has departed. This morning, the low was 38°, and the forecast for the next five days is a low of 40°. While this is certainly cold, by my standards, it is considerably warmer than it was earlier this week—in part, of course, due to the psychological effects of seeing ice covering Mr. Nitro! Highs of 70°+ are forecast, and I eagerly await this weather. It shall be good weather for grilling this weekend.

To Serve and Protect, Somebody's Watching You, -and- Fingerache

To Serve and Protect - sheriff undernourishes inmates, pockets difference
Somebody's Watching You - CCTV cameras used to provide 'evidence' against diners who complained
Fingerache - kid sends 14,528 text messages in one month

On this day in history: January 12, 1928 - Murderer Ruth Snyder executed in the Electric Chair at Ossining. Photographer Thomas Howard catches the moment of death with a camera secretly strapped to his ankle, and the photo runs on the front page of the New York Daily News.

Born on this day in history: January 12, 1876 - Jack London (1876-1916) (born Jan. 12, 1876, San Francisco, CA, U.S.—died Nov. 22, 1916, Glen Ellen, CA) American novelist and short-story writer whose works deal romantically with elemental struggles for survival. He is one of the most extensively translated of American authors.

Scripture of the Day: Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. — Psalm 100:2

Video of the Day: Gadget Orchestra with RockStar - submitted by Darin

Brrr. It is -76° in Alaska. All I can say is, "Brrr"! Click to enlarge.

It was 76° yesterday at 4 PM, as I grilled chicken wings! The exterior temperature sensor in Mr. Nitro showed 60° at 6:45 AM, as I drove to my office. I very nearly wore shorts this morning. I am relatively certain I shall soon wish that I had!

I relived an experience I had many years ago while sleeping last night: My rock band was playing a wedding reception in the backyard of the bride's parents' home in Chico. The band took a break, and I sauntered to the bar to get a beverage. I espied a comely young lady standing at the bar. One of the three bartenders—a pleasant young man of about 25—was making a drink for her. He was pouring from a bottle of Bacardi Gold. I turned to the young lady and said, "Are you aware of the significance of the bats on the Bacardi bottle?" "Why no," she said. She appeared very interested, so I continued, "Rum is a distillate of the sap of the Puerto Rican acacia tree. The Puerto Rican acacia tree is the favorite roost of the Puerto Rican fruit bat." "How cool," she said.

Over the years, I have often rued this meeting—wishing that I had confessed to her that my story was meant simply to entertain and bore no validity. I did not, however, and sincerely hope that she did not suffer unduly as a result of my telling of the tale.

Don't Flush!, Sneaky, -and- Somebody's Watching You

Don't Flush! - detective finds missing gun in toilet by accident
Sneaky - PE teacher fired for wearing gym shoes in class
Somebody's Watching You - Oregon eyes mileage tax using satellite technology

On this day in history: December 30, 1977 - Ted Bundy escapes from a jail in Aspen, Colorado by using a hacksaw. He moves to Chicago, then Michigan, Atlanta, and finally Florida, where he commits a series of grotesque murders.

Born on this day in history: December 30, 1975 - Tiger Woods (1975- ) Born in Cypress, California, golfer Tiger Woods shot to fame after winning the U.S. Masters in 1997, with a record score of 270, becoming the first African-American and the youngest player to do so. In 2003, Woods was voted PGA Tour Player of Year for the fifth successive year.

Scripture of the Day: When the priests and Levites had purified themselves ceremonially, they purified the people, the gates and the wall. - Nehemiah 12:30

Video of the Day: New Aptera Tour By Founder Steve Fambro - submitted by Jim

This is a still from the movie, "The Hell Patrol," that was shot, in part, in Corning earlier this year. Click to enlarge.

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

Corning Goes Hollywood! - Movie "The Hell Patrol" shot, in part, in Corning!

Top Things for 2008!

Top Mug Shots of 2008!
Sports Illustrated Photos of the Year
Best Quotes of 2008
Naughtiest and Nicest CEOs of 2008
Funniest Stories of 2008
2000 Strange and Offbeat Stories of 2008

The Fat of the Land, Found!, -and- Somebody's Watching You

The Fat of the Land - doctor powered SUV with fat from liposuction
Found! - woman buried in snow for three days found alive
Somebody's Watching You - Web footprints leave easy trail

On this day in history: December 26, 1980 - Richard Chase, the "Vampire of Sacramento" who drank the blood of two of his six victims, commits suicide on death row by overdosing on hoarded medication.

Born on this day in history: December 26, 1940 - Phil Spector (1940 - ) Born in New York City, record producer and songwriter Phil Spector produced 20 hits in three years, working with artists like the Crystals and the Righteous Brothers. Spector is credited with creating a trademark "wall of sound."

Scripture of the Day: "Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me." — John 12:26

Video of the Day: "Get Smart" - Bloopers and Outtakes

Here is Mr. Pig, slowly roasting on the grill. Click to enlarge.

Laura took this photograph of the remains of Mr. Pig, following our gluttonous assault upon him. Click to enlarge.

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

Top Things for 2008!
Top Mug Shots of 2008!
Sports Illustrated Photos of the Year
Best Quotes of 2008

I hope everyone had a glorious and festive Christmas. I hope everyone celebrated the birth of Christ with loved ones, family, and friends. I hope everyone who traveled reached their destinations safely.

Laura and I had a wonderful Christmas day. We watched several DVDs—including "Resurrection" and "The Gospel of John." We enjoyed an excellent meal of pork loin, stuffed with hot Italian sausage dressing; mashed potatoes; Brussels sprouts; cranberry sauce; and gravy. Today, we shall rest and dine with considerably greater restraint.

Fighting Back, Somebody's Watching You, -and- Bah Humbug!

Fighting Back - homeowner takes intruder's gun away, beats him
Somebody's Watching You - citizens operate speed traps
Bah Humbug! - Florida university bans Christmas decorations

On this day in history: November 25, 1987 - Fawn Hall, Oliver North's assistant, removes documents from sealed National Security Council offices inside the White House by hiding them inside her skirt.

Born on this day in history: November 25, 1914 - Joe DiMaggio (1914 - 1999) Born in Martinez, California, baseball player Joe DiMaggio spent his career as an outfielder for the Yankees (1936–51), and was named American League Most Valuable Player three times. Married briefly to screen icon Marilyn Monroe, DiMaggio was elected to baseball's Hall of Fame in 1955.

Scripture of the Day: [Jesus said] "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." — Mark 11:25

Video of the Day: Street Legal Ferrari FXX by Edo Competition

Here is an photograph from last Sunday's Corning Hometown Christmas. Click
to enlarge.

The weather remains unusually pleasant for this time of year. The sun continues to shine, the sky is blue and clear, and birds continue their singing. Yesterday morning, the wind was unpleasantly strong. It soon dissipated, however, and did not return today. It is currently 50° and forecast to be a relatively low (it has been in the low 70°s for some time now) 61°. I realize that we need rain, but I certainly enjoy this dry, unseasonably warm weather! If the weather forecast proves correct, Thanksgiving shall present us with grilling weather. Laura and I intend to grill game hens for Thanksgiving dinner. While I can certainly tend to the grill in foul weather, it would be considerably more pleasant not to need hip waders and anorak. I much prefer grilling in shorts, tank top, and sandals!

Somebody's Watching You, Out Damned Spot!, -and- The Nose Knows

Somebody’s Watching You - nation’s street sweepers turn into spies
Out Damned Spot! - new detergent gets rid of those pesky bloodstains
The Nose Knows - odors are as unique as fingerprints

On this day in history: November 7, 1872 - The cargo ship Mary Celeste sails from New York, never reaching Genoa. Four weeks later it is found completely abandoned, whereabouts of the ten man crew unknown.

Born on this day in history: November 7, 1918 - Billy Graham (1918 - ) Born near Charlotte, North Carolina, protestant evangelist Billy Graham converted to fundamentalism at 16. In his first high-profile crusade in Los Angeles in 1949, he preached to 350,000 people. A magnetic preacher, Graham has converted millions of people, and is a national figure.

Scripture of the Day: For the LORD is righteous, he loves justice; upright men will see his face. — Psalm 11:7

How William Shatner Changed the World - submitted by Amber
Video of the Day:

Gas prices have certainly fallen! Click to enlarge.

Photographs from the CUHS Homecoming Parade 2008 await your viewing pleasure. From the Photo Gallery of Local Events, choose CUHS Homecoming Parade 2008. You may view the images individually by clicking on the thumbnails, or you may view them as a slide show by choosing "Start Slide Show."

[While I slept] It was Tuesday, November 11, 2008—Veterans Day. I arrived at my office at 7 AM and began the day as usual. I had Outlook 2007 set to alert me at 10:45 AM that it was time to prepare for photographing the Veterans Day parade, which would take place on Solano Street—passing in front of my office. I intended to exit the front door of my office, walk to the edge of the sidewalk, and photograph the parade as I have done when photographing parades for the last ten years.

I continued about my day as I usually do. I completed the blog post for the day, responded to emails, read the news, prepared a quotation for a client who was scheduled to come to my office that afternoon, and listened to Sirius Satellite Radio via the Internet.

At 10:45 AM, Outlook 2007 alerted me that the parade would begin in 15 minutes. I opened my camera bag and took out my Nikon D3 and removed the lens cap and affixed the lens hood to the Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 lens. I walked to the front door, and I was unable to open the door, because someone had set up a booth directly in front of the door and sufficiently close to the door that it was not possible to open the door. The door opens outward, and in the past, it has been blocked by people who have set up booths there. When this has happened, I have successfully got the attention of these people by rapping on the glass of the door and indicating that I required use of the door. Rapping on the glass was ineffective, and the doorway remained blocked. I determined that I would exit the rear door and walk down the alley and around the corner of the block to my usual shooting position at the edge of the sidewalk in front of my office.

When I reached the back door and attempted to open it, I found it blocked by a large truck that had backed into my parking spot sufficiently close to the rear door of my office that I was unable to open it. [In reality, the rear door of my office opens inward, so it would not be possible to block it in this fashion.] I walked to the front door and rapped upon the glass once again. There was no response, and the time for the parade to begin was drawing near.

I noticed a sign on the booth that was blocking my doorway. It read, “Rita’s Carnitas” and listed a telephone number. I called the number and reached someone who apparently spoke no English. I attempted to communicate the situation, using the few Spanish words at my command, but I was unable to do so.

I walked to the rear of my office, stood on a step ladder [I have no such ladder.], and opened an entryway in the ceiling. [There is no such entryway in the ceiling.] I entered this and found myself in the area between the ceiling and roof. I located an exit to the roof, took it, and found myself on the roof of my office. I found that it was a good vantage point for photographing the parade. I saw that the parade was just beginning to form in preparation for beginning. I put my camera down and returned to my office. I took a folding chair from the storage area of my office [There are actually two such chairs there.] and returned with it to the roof. I sat in the chair and photographed the parade.

When the parade ended, I returned to my office and began downloading the photographs I had taken. At this point, I awakened.

Fighting Back, Somebody's Watching You, -and- Matters of Life and Death

Fighting Back - rape victim drives attacker to police station after he falls asleep in car
Somebody's Watching You - Internet black boxes to record every email and Web site visit
Matters of Life and Death - assisted suicide green-lighted in Washington

On this day in history: November 6, 2002 - Actress Winona Ryder found guilty of shoplifting, after she lifted $5500 in crap from Saks Fifth Avenue on Wilshire Boulevard. Among the merchandise she stole was a $760 sweater and $600 hair decorations. And an $80 pair of socks.

Born on this day in history: November 6, 1955 - Maria Shriver (1955-) Born in Chicago, Illinois, daughter of diplomat Sargent Shriver and Eunice Kennedy, journalist and California First Lady (2003 - ) Maria Shriver worked in correspondent roles at CBS News from 1978 – 2003. She resigned when husband, actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, became 38th Governor of California. Shriver has written several children’s books.

Scripture of the Day: And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. — Hebrews 11:6

Video of the Day: 2008 Dodge Challenger Burnout - submitted by Darin

Superhero - another photograph from last Friday's Harvest Festival. Click to enlarge.

Today is beautiful! The sun is shining, the wind is low, the sky is clear, and the birds are singing! It is forecast to be in the low 70s through the weekend. I realize we need rain, but this is certainly nicer!

When I bought Ahi fillets at Sav-Mor Foods earlier in the week, I used one fillet for the salad I described in an earlier post. The other fillet remains vacuum-sealed and waiting use. I believe I shall make sushi tomorrow evening!

For dinner last evening, we enjoyed egg and bacon burritos. I cracked and beat six Eggland's Best eggs and cut 15 slices of cooked bacon into one-inch pieces and added to the eggs. I seasoned this with Tony Chachere's More Spice and cooked until fluffy and done. Laura warmed four large Mission flour tortillas. At the table, we assembled burritos—adding grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese, fresh Chiles d'Arbo, crushed red peppers, and Louisiana hot sauce. Following dinner, we attended Bible class at Harvest Christian Center.

Grounded, Back to School, -and- Somebody's Watching You

Grounded - after morning coffee, woman finds dead bat in filter
Back to School - MI law requires GED for parole
Somebody's Watching You - homeowner links cameras to city cops

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

Break a leg, Sarah. Click to enlarge.

Click here to see yourself onscreen!

The United Way

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?"

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

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

On this day in history: September 25, 1980 - After spending the whole day drinking, Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham dies from alcohol poisoning.

Born on this day in history: September 25, 1969 - Catherine Zeta-Jones (1969 - ) Born in Swansea, Wales, actress Catherine Zeta-Jones became known in the BBC TV series "The Darling Buds of May" (1991). She went on to international stardom in "The Mask of Zorro" (1998) and "Traffic" (2000), in which she co-starred with Michael Douglas, whom she later married.

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

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

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

The Power Outage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fighting Back, Somebody's Watching You, -and- Hic!

Fighting Back - robber shot to death by intended victim
Somebody's Watching You - man found hiding in ceiling over women's restroom
Hic! - Pennsylvania professor charged with 3 DUIs in 8 days

On this day in history: August 29, 2005 - Category 3 storm Hurricane Katrina attacks the Gulf coast with 145-mph winds. Cities in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi are declared disaster areas. Parts of New Orleans are submerged, some residents are left to scramble to their rooftops awaiting rescue.

Born on this day in history: August 29, 1915 - Ingrid Bergman (1915 - 1982) Born in Stockholm, Sweden, actress Ingrid Berman was a popular romantic star in films like "Casablanca" (1942) and "Notorious" (1946). In 1950, she gave birth to the illegitimate child of director Roberto Rossellini, which created a scandal. Bergman won Oscars for "Gaslight" (1944), "Anastasia" (1956), and "Murder on the Orient Express" (1974).

Scripture of the Day: "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "You are the Christ." - Mark 8:29

Video of the Day: The Mentalist: Card Awareness Test - submitted by Amber

This creature is serious about nose picking! Click to enlarge.

BREAKING NEWS! - 8:30 AM - As I predicted!! John McCain has chosen Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate!

Christian One Liners:
Don't let your worries get the best of you; remember, Moses started out as a basket case.

Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited until you try to sit in their pews.

Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisers.

It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.

The good Lord didn't create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.

When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there.

People are funny; they want the front of the bus, the middle of the road, and the back of the church.

Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on your front door forever.

Quit griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn't belong.

If the church wants a better preacher, it only needs to pray for the one it has.

God Himself does not propose to judge a man until he is dead. So why should you?

Some minds are like concrete thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.

Peace starts with a smile.

I don't know why some people change churches; what difference does it make which one you stay home from?

A lot of church members who are singing 'Standing on the Promises' are just sitting on the premises.

We were called to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges.

Be ye fishers of men. You catch them - He'll clean them!

Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous.

Don't put a question mark where God put a period.

Don't wait for 6 strong men to take you to church.

Forbidden fruits create many jams.

God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.

God grades on the cross, not the curve.

God loves everyone, but probably prefers 'fruit of the spirit' over a 'religious nut!'

God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.

He who angers you, controls you!

If God is your Co-pilot - swap seats!

Don't give God instructions -- just report for duty!

The task ahead of us is never as great as the Power behind us.

The Will of God never takes you to where the Grace of God will not protect you.

We don't change the message, the message changes us.

You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.