tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52236220531175978362024-03-12T16:01:46.421-07:00Michael Higby's Absolute Random NonsenseProbably no politics and no neighborhood stuff. Just whatever else I find interesting and then some. Wow! My own blog!Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-31304610419189535312014-01-25T23:25:00.000-08:002014-01-25T23:28:26.658-08:00Food and Fun on the Radio!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bFaN7EtWX8k/UuS3ybIkLzI/AAAAAAAADUw/MWKObLMCDlc/s1600/19180_1332455675129_7098763_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bFaN7EtWX8k/UuS3ybIkLzI/AAAAAAAADUw/MWKObLMCDlc/s1600/19180_1332455675129_7098763_n.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
I'm filling in this Sunday for Frank Sheftel on his "<b><a href="http://www.latalkradio.com/Sheftel.php">Frank Talk</a></b>" program on <b><a href="http://www.latalkradio.com/Sheftel.php">LATalkRadio</a></b>! Sunday at 4pm!<br />
<br />
Joining me as my co-host is Jose Grijalva, Executive Chef and co-owner of <b><a href="http://www.joselitostujunga.com/tujunga">Joselito's Mexican Food</a></b> in Tujunga, California!<br />
<br />
We'll be covering lots of fun topics on food, beverages and entertaining.<br />
<br />
Our guests include Dr. Javier Martinez, the owner of <b><a href="http://www.paquitequila.com/">paQui Tequila</a></b>. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LLoR2Yi5Wd4/UuS37XNxhlI/AAAAAAAADU4/yeHiqhN3xTs/s1600/paqui-tequila-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LLoR2Yi5Wd4/UuS37XNxhlI/AAAAAAAADU4/yeHiqhN3xTs/s1600/paqui-tequila-3.jpg" height="140" width="200" /></a></div>
Dr. Martinez's family has been in the distlling business for decades and he once served as the head of Mexico's Tequila Commission. Joining Dr. Martinez will be Hector Calzada, also of paQui.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HsSfAVyBsAA/UuS4D1yot9I/AAAAAAAADVA/tq4ANWBsSr4/s1600/1511693_471493799639938_87002432_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HsSfAVyBsAA/UuS4D1yot9I/AAAAAAAADVA/tq4ANWBsSr4/s1600/1511693_471493799639938_87002432_n.jpg" height="200" width="148" /></a>Also on the program is Tiffany Ann Casper, owner of <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tees-On-The-Green/132090320246956">Tee's on the Green</a></b>, a sports bar and grill located at the Verdugo Hills Golf Course in La Tuna Canyon, California. Tiffany is an expert on entertaining around sporting events and will be sharing tips and ideas for your Superbowl <br />
parties!<br />
<br />
See you on LATalkRadio at 4pm, Sunday, January 26th, 2014!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-3187542654081326072012-05-31T21:17:00.002-07:002012-05-31T21:17:28.738-07:00Spider-Man Comes to Walmart!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEG3XbJnqM8/T8hCSpKRY0I/AAAAAAAAEmQ/yf1mhs8BHRY/s1600/Spider_Man.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEG3XbJnqM8/T8hCSpKRY0I/AAAAAAAAEmQ/yf1mhs8BHRY/s320/Spider_Man.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
In anticipation of the summer’s biggest blockbuster, The Amazing Spider-Man, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Walmart Stores, Inc., and Marvel Entertainment have teamed up to present the ultimate Spider-Man experience at Walmart Stores nationwide.<br /> <br /> Grab the family for a fun-filled adventure at your local Walmart store and explore the innovative “Secrets Unmasked” Truck Tour that turns a parking lot into a playground of interactive features including*:<br />
<ul>
<li>PlayStation3 gaming center with advanced demo of The Amazing Spider-Man video game from Activision available in stores on June 26th</li>
<li>Demonstrations and giveaways of the new Spider-Man Bonkazonks toys and The Amazing Spider-Man Hero FX Masks from Hasbro</li>
<li>HP photo center with free photo print to take home</li>
<li>Sony Electronics Screening center</li>
<li>Temporary tattoo station<br />Samples of Spider-Man snacks from Kellogg’s<br />Demo of the “Web-Slinger” augmented reality app from Smart Talk</li>
<li>Spidey climbing wall (only at select locations)</li>
</ul>
*activities vary by location<br /> <br />For more information on The Amazing Spider-Man “Secrets Unmasked” Tour and when it will be coming to your local store, visit <a href="http://www.walmart.com/spider-man">www.walmart.com/spider-man</a>.Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-36657035089461579352011-07-23T13:44:00.000-07:002011-07-23T13:44:08.035-07:00What's Cookin' Today on CRN: 7/25 Cyber Bullying, Busy Moms, Jim Fiolek, Gary P...<a href="http://whatscookintoday.blogspot.com/2011/07/725-cyber-bullying-busy-moms-jim-fiolek.html?spref=bl">What's Cookin' Today on CRN: 7/25 Cyber Bullying, Busy Moms, Jim Fiolek, Gary P...</a>: "What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE: Author & Behavioral Expert John Greenburg Talks About Cyber Bullying There is a growing problem among teens..."Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-83524509796561824122011-07-04T12:55:00.000-07:002011-07-04T12:58:14.249-07:00Fantastic Car Detailing!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlfBWU69gD0/ThIaH3Sqd_I/AAAAAAAADJU/chSrCRkmdgg/s1600/272753_10150307866868573_741513572_9163211_7943985_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlfBWU69gD0/ThIaH3Sqd_I/AAAAAAAADJU/chSrCRkmdgg/s320/272753_10150307866868573_741513572_9163211_7943985_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shine is like glass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I don't usually plug businesses on this blog but when I find a good one I will. <br />
<br />
Recently I had the opportunity to get my Ford Explorer detailed at <b><a href="http://www.detail301.com/">Detail 301</a></b> in Beverly Hills. Located deep below Rodeo Drive in the garage for trendy shops, Detail 301 provides <b><a href="http://www.detail301.com/services.html">all the usual car wash and detail services</a></b> you would expect. It's sister business, <b><a href="http://auto-vault.com/">AutoVault</a></b>, stores some fairly high end autos for celebrities and other movers and shakers when they're not driving their favorite Bugatti, Porsche, Lamborghini, etc. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-haAl-8oVgMY/ThIaIfuH8QI/AAAAAAAADJY/n8UvUO9_oqM/s1600/278198_10150307867498573_741513572_9163221_6700820_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="119" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-haAl-8oVgMY/ThIaIfuH8QI/AAAAAAAADJY/n8UvUO9_oqM/s200/278198_10150307867498573_741513572_9163221_6700820_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice clean interior</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The difference here between Detail 301 and even high end car detailers around town is, well, the detail. The crew spent nearly five hours on my car, getting it more than just polished but clean down to every nook and cranny. By the time they were done, it literally seemed like I had a new car.<br />
<br />
At $235 for an SUV ($215 for passenger cars), it's not cheap. It's Beverly Hills, people. However when you consider the average detail job at your local car wash is about $75 - $115, factoring in the high level of work Detail 301 performs, I actually find this a bargain. Unless you routinely drive through mudholes or you allow your eight year old to eat ice cream cones daily in the back seat, this clean job is going to last for a while and you may not need as many car washes going forward. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V08ZC6deZjM/ThIaHgzRULI/AAAAAAAADJQ/YEWM8JlXomQ/s1600/272356_10150307867043573_741513572_9163214_3962264_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="119" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V08ZC6deZjM/ThIaHgzRULI/AAAAAAAADJQ/YEWM8JlXomQ/s200/272356_10150307867043573_741513572_9163214_3962264_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot looking tires!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I highly recommend Detail 301. While you wait, you can window shop at Armani or hang out at the nearby Starbucks and gawk at the rich and fabulous.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Detail 301 is located at:</b><br />
<br />
440 North Rodeo Drive (parking garage for Brooks Brothers)<br />
Beverly Hills<br />
(near Santa Monica Blvd)<br />
310-859-0703Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-71564557609481252442011-06-10T10:34:00.000-07:002011-06-10T10:34:54.114-07:00An Elevatingly Strange Experience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cabcraft.com/images/ELEVATOR%20CAB%202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.cabcraft.com/images/ELEVATOR%20CAB%202.JPG" width="154" /></a></div>My office recently relocated to a brand new, modern, high tech office building.<div><br />
</div><div>One of the cool "tricks" the building has is the elevator speaks out the floor you've arrived at when the doors open.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I'm on the sixth floor, and everyday when I exit on my way to the office, a pleasant voice announces we've reached our destination by proclaiming "sixth floor."</div><div><br />
</div><div>This morning however, as the elevator reached my landing, the message was "sixth level." </div><div><br />
</div><div>Immediately, as I exited, I thought that was odd. "Doesn't it normally," I said in my mind "say "sixth floor?"</div><div><br />
</div><div>As soon as that thought crossed my mind I heard the elevator say "Floor. Going down."</div><div><br />
</div><div>Not only can my elevator talk it appears it can read minds. I need my coffee, stat!</div>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-22029091836555981332011-05-21T23:58:00.000-07:002011-05-21T23:58:39.545-07:00What's Cookin' Today: 5/23 Robin Dunne, Jacqueline Maduneme, Ballard Inn...<a href="http://whatscookintoday.blogspot.com/2011/05/523-robin-dunne-jacqueline-maduneme.html?spref=bl">What's Cookin' Today: 5/23 Robin Dunne, Jacqueline Maduneme, Ballard Inn...</a>: "What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE: We're Talking With Actor Robin Dunne! Actor Robin Dunne returns as forensic psychiatrist Dr. Will Zimmerma..."Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-90681607081418791172011-05-19T21:09:00.000-07:002011-05-19T21:09:30.096-07:00Florence Henderson On CRN Radio!<a href="http://whatscookintoday.blogspot.com/2011/05/520-jason-cameron-florence-henderson.html?spref=bl">What's Cookin' Today: 5/20 Jason Cameron, Florence Henderson, TLC's Fabu...</a>: "What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE: DIY Host & Dog Lover Jason Cameron Talks With Us About Dog Parks! The local dog park is the perfect place ..."Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-67369788557391413472011-05-09T22:12:00.001-07:002011-05-09T22:12:24.542-07:00Salmon Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://brotherpeacemaker.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/savory-salmon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://brotherpeacemaker.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/savory-salmon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>This is pretty simple. <br />
<br />
Alaskan (preferably) Salmon Steaks<br />
Lemon Slices<br />
Cilantro Sprigs<br />
Lemon juice<br />
sea salt<br />
black pepper<br />
<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350<br />
<br />
Place salmon in glass baking dish.<br />
<br />
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on each piece of salmon<br />
Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper<br />
Squirt some lemon juice on the salmon<br />
Place one lemon slice and one sprig of cilantro on each steak<br />
<br />
Bake for 15-25 minutes depending on how many steaksMichael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-82519127957380065202011-05-08T17:26:00.000-07:002011-05-08T17:26:26.460-07:00What's Cookin' Today: 5/9 Joe Washington Helps Us Spruce Up for Summer, ...<a href="http://whatscookintoday.blogspot.com/2011/05/59-joe-washington-helps-us-spruce-up.html?spref=bl">What's Cookin' Today: 5/9 Joe Washington Helps Us Spruce Up for Summer, ...</a>: "What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE: Joe Washington, Emmy-winning Original Host of HGTV’s Groundbreakers, Tells Us How to Tidy Up Our Yards for ..."Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-55536192935039652932011-03-17T00:01:00.000-07:002011-03-17T00:01:03.861-07:00Stephen Lynch - Down to the Old Pub<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Bm__bBktSWQ" title="YouTube video player" width="425"></iframe>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-28773436646800743122011-02-24T14:05:00.001-08:002011-02-24T14:07:54.829-08:00He was standing in a lot...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hooniverse.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/junkyardDelorean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://hooniverse.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/junkyardDelorean.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Joshua was waiting for Kimberly.<br /><br />She had taken him to a field near her home. Overgrown with weeds, a cat ambled by, otherwise the place was sort of hauntingly beautiful.<br /><br />I didn't mention that amongst that sea of unmaintained, tall as your knees grass, was a line-up of every vehicle Kimberly had ever owned. Starting with a much rusted out 84 Rabbit to a still fairly decent looking Lexus.<br /><br />When Kimberly bought a new car, she never sold the old one. Instead, she deposited it on the unused swatch of land her father had bought in 1973.<br /><br />Joshua scanned each vehicle, each different, each the same in the their abandonment.<br /><br />And he waited for Kimberly. He would wait for a while.Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-74701434982752963622010-12-15T22:28:00.000-08:002010-12-15T22:28:42.092-08:00My Favorite Christmas Carols<a href="http://www.chromewaves.net/images/interface/20061223bowieBing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.chromewaves.net/images/interface/20061223bowieBing.jpg" width="200" /></a>Thought I would share my top five.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKS0GngztOo">Bing Crosby and David Bowie - <i>The Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth</i></a></b>. This inter-generational classic was shot just a few months before Crosby died. It was Bing's kids who suggested Bowie for the duet. It's just fantastic.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPG3zSgm_Qo&feature=related"><i>Christmastime is Here</i> from a <i>Charlie Brown Christmas</i> </a></b>- Hauntingly beautiful and chock full of oh so warm childhood memories.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYOQard11J0"><i>The Christmas Song</i> by Nat King Cole</a></b> - One of my favorite orchestrations of a song, lyrics capturing a true family holiday and the utter coolness of Nat.<br />
<br />
The next two go together. Just before all the merriment dies down and we move to the reason for the season, we get close to the end of the day on Christmas Eve and the hour that God becomes man, born as a child, to wash us of our sins, <i>O Holy Night</i>, the dénouement of the story with the song reaching it's final praiseful cresecendo when indeed the Savior is born. <b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQWXfHzOKUU">This version</a></b>, is by artist Josh Groban.<div><br />
</div><div>And finally, as the Savior is born and resting in his manger, we know must become very quiet, reflect, be with those we love and fall into adoration of Him and feel the peace embedded in <i>Silent Night</i> (<b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silent_Night#History">the story of it's composition is a blessing itself</a></b>). Having once sang this song at midnight, Christmas Eve, on the steps of a 200 year old church in New England at five below zero, it will always signify the coming of Christmas to me. <b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNQ4DOEeDnM&feature=related">Here is the song in both it's original German as well as English versions.</a></b></div><div><br />
</div><div>There are many, many other holiday themed songs and multiple recordings of such that I enjoy. I hope you enjoy my favorites here though. I would be delighted if you commented and noted some of yours.</div>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-41369693093871525002010-10-04T14:44:00.000-07:002010-10-04T14:44:51.947-07:00The Covenant Prayer<div>From <b><a href="http://www.kaywarren.com/pages/">Kay Warren</a></b>...</div><div><br />
</div>Thank you Jesus that you are all knowing, all powerful and capable of keeping that which is given back to you. You hold my life in your hands. Order my steps rightly, and lead me with your heart of compassion. I remain yielded. I choose forgiveness for those I worked for in the past, and I choose your grace. You have promised us that you would not leave us or forsake us. Thank you that you do not change. Guide me through this turbulence in the journey called life, and lead me homeward to that place in heaven. Amen<div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-82228880741040178152010-10-04T12:27:00.000-07:002010-10-04T12:27:31.886-07:00Narcissism<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pollsb.com/photos/o/234674-narcissism_test_let_know_result_narcissist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.pollsb.com/photos/o/234674-narcissism_test_let_know_result_narcissist.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><br />
<br />
In taking inventory of my actions as much as I hate to admit it narcissism (a tool beautifully designed by the Devil perhaps) is behind much of what I think is behind my fears and wants. It drives incorrect modes of thinking, is what leads us to escape the truth and puts a wall between us and God as well as those we love. The crazy self fulfilling prophecy of narcissism of course is that we refuse to admit we've fallen victim to it. But those things that we wish to control, surely because we would be better at controlling the situation and can't fathom any other outcome are a direct result of a level of malignant narcissism, at least for me anyway.<br />
<br />
I found the following bible verse spoke to me on this topic.<br />
<br />
Philippians 2:1-30: "So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, ..."<br />
<br />
And the great thing about perhaps being willing to give up those old egotistical ways is that I can humbly admit I might even be wrong about the above. Doesn't matter. God is right and his truth is the truth for me whether I get it the first, second or even 54th time.Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-56821090917809115812010-09-14T20:36:00.000-07:002010-09-14T20:40:05.697-07:00My Hebrew Name<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://fjmppzaa.joyent.us/myhebrewbirthday/names/michael.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://fjmppzaa.joyent.us/myhebrewbirthday/names/michael.gif" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>My Hebrew Name is:</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Michael </b></span><br />
Michael means "who is like God?" Michael appears in the Bible as a member of the tribe of Asher (Numbers 13:13). Michael is also the name of an angel and messenger of God, whose task is to act as the "defense attorney" for the Jewish people. Michael stays on our right side as we sleep at night; the right side is always associated with mercy and kindness.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>My Hebrew Birthday is:</b></span><div><br />
23 Tishri (5725)<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>On this Date in the Jewish Calendar:</b></span><br />
Simchat Torah<br />
Simchat Torah celebrates the completion and beginning of the annual Torah reading cycle. In the synagogue, all the Torah scrolls are taken out of the Ark, and the congregation dances "seven circuits" with great joy and song.</div><div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>On this Date in Jewish History:</b></span><br />
In 67 CE, Roman soldiers captured Gamla, a fortress in Israel's Golan region, and killed all its inhabitants. The ancient historian Josephus Flavius, a leader of the Jewish revolt against Rome, fortified Gamla as a main stronghold in 66 CE. The Romans attempted to take the city by means of a siege ramp, but were turned back by the defenders; only on the second attempt did they succeed in penetrating the fortifications and conquering the city. Thousands of inhabitants were slaughtered, while others chose to jump to their deaths from the top of the cliff. The location of ancient Gamla was discovered in archeological excavations during the 1970s; the remains have been preserved as a national park.</div>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-36864783316588245112010-09-13T21:34:00.000-07:002010-09-13T21:34:52.616-07:00A Moving Story of LoveNormally this blog, when I do write, covers things that are more upbeat and light hearted.<br />
<br />
<div>This particular post however does not fit that characterization at all but it was something so compelling that I had to share it with you and this is really my only forum to do so.<br />
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I received in my in-box today photos were so touching and made me nearly cry that I feel I must share them.<br />
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Marine 2nd Lt James Cathey of Reno, Nevada was killed August 21st, 2005 by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Al Karmah, Iraq.</div><div><br />
</div><div>When his body was returned to Reno family and friends met were on the tarmac to meet the casket as Marines lowered it from the plane as stunned passengers on the plane watched.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/TI77HXrpWuI/AAAAAAAAC9M/DtPoTH5JDRA/s1600/veteran+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/TI77HXrpWuI/AAAAAAAAC9M/DtPoTH5JDRA/s400/veteran+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />
</div>The night before the burial of her husband's body, James' wife Katherine Cathey refused to leave the casket, asking to sleep next to his body for the last time The Marines made a bed for her, tucking in the sheets below the flag. Before she fell asleep, she opened her laptop computer and played songs that reminded her of 'Cat,' and one of the Marines asked if she wanted them to continue standing watch as she slept. 'I think it would be kind of nice if you kept doing it,' she said. 'I think that's what he would have wanted'<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/TI77UBoQdpI/AAAAAAAAC9Q/PsMbpYUVU0k/s1600/veteran+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/TI77UBoQdpI/AAAAAAAAC9Q/PsMbpYUVU0k/s400/veteran+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />
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The photos taken by Todd Heisler of The Rocky Mountain News, are incredible and moving.</div></div>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-81058460352777667422010-09-06T23:26:00.000-07:002010-09-06T23:26:13.177-07:00JP Myers A Blog: The Long Hot Summer<a href="http://jpmyers.blogspot.com/2010/09/long-hot-summer.html">JP Myers A Blog: The Long Hot Summer</a>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-72768036696440605262009-10-03T13:39:00.000-07:002009-10-03T13:39:07.371-07:00AT&T: You won't?This is a series of ads run by AT&T in 1993 (notice that Tom Selleck is the announcer?). <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_Will"><b>The campaign</b></a> is somewhat remarkable is the technologies and products feature are ones we take for granted now and did not exist back then. Well except for the video payphones.<br />
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<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TZb0avfQme8&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TZb0avfQme8&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
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Among the technologies predicted that would not exist for at least another five to ten years later were wifi, tablet PCs, GoToMeeting/WebEx, Google Book Search, Google Health, GPS, FastTrak and on-demand digital cable.<br />
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The only thing they were off on was they didn't anticipate that cell phones would be ubiquitous as well as internet based videoconferencing features of applications such as Skype and GoogleTalk) so need for the video payphones.<br />
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As fun as these ads are however at least one critic, Cory Doctorow, wrote in 1996 how the ads display a sense of hubris by an old-world corportate behmoth like AT&T and that just envisioning internet-era analogues of existing technology signifies <a href="http://www.boingboing.net/2006/12/06/atts-you-will-ads-ca.html"><b>the company missing the point of the internet</b></a>. Like Edison's idea of "opera by telephone" at the turn of the last century or the "big beautiful tomorrow" campaigns of the sixties its corporate claptrap that wasn't getting the true innovation going on in the workshops and garages of the tinkerers, if only government and big business would get out of the way.<br />
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The irony of this of course is that while AT&T "celebrated" new technologies and innovation, <a href="http://www.techcrunch.com/2009/09/25/att-goes-after-google-voice-net-neutrality-and-double-standards-full-letter-to-fcc/"><b>they pursue policy positions</b></a> against concepts such as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Network_neutrality"><b>net neutrality</b></a> trying to stifle new-world companies like Google (who has created a hell of lot more amazing things in 11 years than AT&T has in 125 years) rather than trying to compete in the marketplace. Even in the video we see predictions of two applications developed not by Ma Bell but Google, <a href="http://books.google.com/"><b>Google Book Search</b></a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/accounts/ServiceLogin?service=health&nui=1&continue=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fhealth%2Fp%2F&followup=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fhealth%2Fp%2F&rm=hide"><b>Google Health</b></a>.<br />
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So how about AT&T just go back and fire up Mr. Bell's lab?Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-88683140471043431452009-08-30T18:21:00.000-07:002009-08-30T18:23:35.969-07:00Panera Bread's Toilet Gender DiscriminationI sent the following email to Panera Bread's customer service department just a few moments ago:<br /><br />I'm a regular customer at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Panera</span> and sometimes come to use the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">wifi</span> to do work on my computer in your pleasant environment. When I sit for several hours I usually buy a meal a well as drinks and sometimes another meal or snack later.<br /><br />Today I have done just that at your North Hollywood location when I ordered a meal. I asked to use the restroom and was told it was not working. I asked if i could use the women's restroom and was told no that was not allowed. I was told to go to the Coffee Bean next door which wasn't practical since I had ordered a meal and had my computer out which I wasn't about to either leave unattended nor pack with me to go to the Coffee Bean.<br /><br />Therefore I am forced to finish my meal and then leave unable to finish my work and having a less than pleasurable experience at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Panera</span>. I will probably be back but this is a bit disappointing. I also find it discriminatory to provide restroom facilities to one gender but not another.Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-3118442880894714602009-08-30T17:18:00.001-07:002009-08-30T17:21:28.210-07:00Stalker or Brilliant Marketing?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/SpsXSb2XaVI/AAAAAAAACYs/4tJ0FAKoHzo/s1600-h/3868259453_cb9071edfc.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/SpsXSb2XaVI/AAAAAAAACYs/4tJ0FAKoHzo/s400/3868259453_cb9071edfc.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375916185677687122" border="0" /></a><br />A guy meets a girl on a plane and for whatever reason doesn't get her digits. So he takes to posting up flyers around Venice a month later searching her out. Is he a crazy stalker OR is this perhaps a brilliant viral marketing campaign for Southwest Airlines? (<a href="http://la.metblogs.com/2009/08/29/venice-stalker-alert/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Props to Sean Bonner at Metblogs</span></a>)Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-65758687275477657102009-08-16T18:43:00.000-07:002009-08-16T18:43:51.096-07:00Remember When The Phone Was Black and Plugged Into The Wall?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Soi1woQk6_I/AAAAAAAACXY/Pkp-ds101Is/s1600-h/blackberry-curve-8320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Soi1woQk6_I/AAAAAAAACXY/Pkp-ds101Is/s320/blackberry-curve-8320.jpg" /></a></div>I decided it was time to make some changes to my mobile devices which include:<br />
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A Samsung Instinct smartphone - basically Sprint's imitation of the iPhone.<br />
A Sprint aircard<br />
AN Asus Eee PC<br />
An iPod Touch<br />
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I figured that if I could upgrade my aircard to a Sprint Mifi, I could then downgrade my Instinct to a regular phone (for phone and texting only) and downgrade my plan. With the always on wifi from the Mifi then my iPod touch would become the device for mail and other computing on the road. However I would eventually need to upgrade to the new iPod Touch later this fall so that I could gain the camera and microphone the my iPod is currently lacking.<br />
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Another option I had considered was upgrading to the new BlackBerry Tour. The bottom line was that I was growing tired of the Instinct and it wasn't the greatest phone for email. You can only watch so much Hannah Montana on Sprint TV.<br />
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The one issue however was that the Sprint MiFi card is $299. I figured that not only would I be spending the $299 for that but at least that amount in a couple of months to upgrade the iPod. <br />
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So I ruled out the mifi option considering that Sprint's 4G network, currently in testing in Baltimore, will be available in about a year or two and that at that time even better iPods will be out and I'll have had my aircard long enough to get the upgrade rebate to mifi at even faster speeds.<br />
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So I figured out the best option was to upgrade the Instinct to a Blackberry Curve. I really don't need the international functionality of the Tour and the Curve does everything I need and much better than the Instinct. <br />
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I was able to turn in my Instinct for $50, so with the rebate on the phone, it makes the BlackBerry free (before sales tax). So my main investment - after sending off the sales tax on the entire value of the purchase (which I don't understand) to Arnold - was $35 for a car charger. <br />
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Now you may be asking why not just switch to iPhone. I would - but I hate AT&T. So there. Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-46251119491659085012009-07-16T17:20:00.001-07:002009-07-16T17:20:13.239-07:00Random San Francisco street<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Sl_DvRzNVEI/AAAAAAAACUw/EYaUt6sa48I/s1600-h/SSPX0684-713240.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Sl_DvRzNVEI/AAAAAAAACUw/EYaUt6sa48I/s320/SSPX0684-713240.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359217298593633346" /></a></p>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-79155615635790322522009-07-16T14:44:00.001-07:002009-07-16T14:44:44.423-07:00The Chieftain Irish Pub in San Francisco.<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Sl-fTHHVVOI/AAAAAAAACUo/qygWZnBqPIE/s1600-h/SSPX0678-784424.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Sl-fTHHVVOI/AAAAAAAACUo/qygWZnBqPIE/s320/SSPX0678-784424.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359177232270316770" /></a></p>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-43730595451726809302009-07-16T13:55:00.001-07:002009-07-16T13:55:51.615-07:00Gas line in San Francisco<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Sl-T1wN7UTI/AAAAAAAACUg/oSZo_U9kgeY/s1600-h/SSPX0676-751616.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Sl-T1wN7UTI/AAAAAAAACUg/oSZo_U9kgeY/s320/SSPX0676-751616.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359164633279844658" /></a></p>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5223622053117597836.post-84774033308209204752009-07-16T10:34:00.001-07:002009-07-16T10:34:42.950-07:00Leaving San Jose but first, Denny's.<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Sl9kswtiReI/AAAAAAAACUY/NKD_zRtIbxU/s1600-h/SSPX0660-782951.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_eU0Q5KAVbsI/Sl9kswtiReI/AAAAAAAACUY/NKD_zRtIbxU/s320/SSPX0660-782951.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359112801747092962" /></a></p>Michael Higbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03229225335109401795noreply@blogger.com0