ARMAND'S RANCHO DEL CIELO PAGES

Thursday, September 19, 2024

Video: Kamala Harris Wanted To Enter Gun Owners' Locked Homes


The woman is dangerous.

When she was district attorney in San Francisco, Kamala Harris wanted to enter the homes of gun owners to see if they are complying with gun safety laws.

A video of her comments with then-Mayor Gavin Newsom has surfaced. Of the two, Newsom, oddly enough, was the voice of reason.

It is presented by the Daily Mail.

They posted:

A newly resurfaced video of Kamala Harris shows her talking about law enforcement entering the locked homes of gun owners to make sure they are storing their weapons properly. 

Harris spoke about the issue in 2007 when she was the district attorney of San Francisco during a press conference on new gun control laws with then-Mayor of San Francisco Gavin Newsom and other city officials. 

'Just because you legally possess a gun in the sanctity of your locked home doesn't mean that we're not going to walk into that home and check to see if you're being responsible and safe in the way you conduct your affairs,' Harris said.

At the time, Harris repeated it was 'time' to enact the new laws and that it was 'the right thing to do.' 

Harris voiced her threat to check on gun owners even after Newsom argued earlier in the press conference that the legislation would not allow law enforcement to knock on everyone's doors to make sure they were following the law.

'We're not going to knock on everybody's door, we're not going to break in and inspect...' Newsom said when asked how he would enforce the law.  

But Harris seemed to relish the idea of using the new law to ensure better behavior from gun owners. 

Just imagine what she would try to do if she were elected president! The video is pretty damning!

To see the video and read more, go here

Trump On Gutfeld: Walz Story

 

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

The Winchester Model 12

Above, picking up the Winchester Model 12 at Loeffler's Guns Etc.

The Winchester Model 12 shotgun first caught my attention in the Facebook Winchester groups. I was reading raves from different members on how they loved shooting it. 

Another reason why it caught my attention was that people were saying it worked great while trap and skeet shooting. I went trap shooting last year while visiting friends in Lake Havasu, Arizona. I bought a Remington 870 Express 12-gauge while there. However, its shorter barrel didn't seem suited for trap shooting when I tried it later. I had better results with a borrowed shotgun with a much longer barrel during a previous shoot.

As the Model 12 has a 30-inch barrel, it seemed to be better suited for trap shooting than the Remington. I still like the Remington. I found a Winchester Model 12 12-gauge made in 1919 for sale at Guns.com at a reasonable price and bought it. I had it sent to Loeffler's Guns Etc. in Grants, New Mexico. I shot it a couple of weeks ago and I found it as enjoyable to shoot as did the posters at Facebook. It was quite accurate as it hit what I aimed at (an old campaign lawn sign). Not bad for an antique made 105 years ago!

Above, my little Winchester collection. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Truth About Guns website posted a review of the Winchester Model 12. 

It begins with:

Oliver Winchester’s legacy won’t ever be tied to a specific gun. The Winchester Repeating Arms Company is one of multiple legacies and successes throughout its century and a half of production. They started life as a lever-action rifle company and won the West. They transitioned to one of the premier shotgun companies at the turn of the 20th century and ended as a bolt gun company. We are going to cling to the second legacy and focus on shotguns, specifically the Model 12.

I initially thought about doing an Obscure Object of Desire article, but what’s obscure about the Model 12? TTAG tends to write and review new guns, but why not step back and appreciate a classic? Almost two million model 12s were produced, so they aren’t uncommon these days. You’ll pay a pretty penny for a Model 12 that is in good shape, but if the condition is a bit ratty, they can be had for a reasonable price. A ratty Model 12 is still better than any Freedom Group 870 you might find on the used market. 

The Model 12 – The Perfect Repeater

The first successful pump-action shotgun was the Winchester M1897. This gun is legendary, and the Model 12 often lives in its shadow. However, the Model 12 is the superior shotgun. The M1897 was great but a bit complicated and fragile, and the exposed hammer and guts out of the bottom design weren’t the best. The Model 12 took the 1897 and fixed some of its flaws. The gun became known as the “Perfect Repeater.”  

Production of the gun began in 1912. Winchester was creative and innovative with its guns, but its naming conventions were a bit boring. Production lasted until 1964, with occasional special runs of the guns.  

Winchester enclosed the hammer, beefed up the forend and built a refined gun. It’s smooth as silk and was originally built to supplement the 97. Winchester released the guns in 20 gauge at first. They didn’t want to compete with their own 1897. However, in 1913, they dedicated to releasing 12- and 16-gauge variants. A .410 variant was never produced, but the Model 42 was a scaled-down Model 12 for the .410 crowd.

 To read more, go here.

Rains At The John Wayne Cancer Foundation Marathon In Ridgway?

Above, Patrick and Ethan Wayne at the 2022 Grit Series Marathon outside of Ridgway. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It appears that the John Wayne Cancer Foundation's Grit Series marathon outside of Ridgway, Colorado may see some rain.

According to the National Weather Service the weekend looks like this:

Today
Sunny, with a high near 73. Light and variable wind becoming west 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight
Mostly clear, with a low around 38. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Thursday
Sunny, with a high near 77. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 43. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Friday
Sunny, with a high near 76. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night
A slight chance of showers between midnight and 3am, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3am. Mostly clear, with a low around 40. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Saturday
A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 67. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Saturday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 38.
Sunday
A slight chance of showers before noon. Sunny, with a high near 68.

As I already have travel plans and reservations, I am heading up anyway. The marathon team has canopies for the aid stations along the marathon route, so I am not concerned. I don't know how this will affect the runners, if at all.  

From there, I will be heading into Utah to spend some "quality time" at Monument Valley. The temperature will be around 80° and sunny there.

Note: I posted this at Facebook, but they removed it, allegedly for "spam". Ridiculous!

Tucker Carlson Interviews Larry Elder and RFK Jr.

Here is a video of an interview by Tucker Carlson of commentator Larry Elder and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

I watched it last night and it is well-worth a viewing. I highly recommend it!

Harris Is The One Lying About Guns


The flip-flopping Kamala Harris tried to ease people's fears that she would try to dismantle the Second Amendment during her debate with former President Donald Trump. Anyone with half a sense is not impressed.

She lied during the debate about many things and that included her stance on guns.

David Codrea in Firearms News examines her debate lies on guns in a new article in Firearms News.

He begins with:

“And then this business about taking everyone's guns away,” Vice President Kamala Harris prefaced a rebuttal in September’s presidential debate, joining forces with ABC News “moderators” against Donald Trump. “Tim Walz and I are both gun owners. We're not taking anybody's guns away. So, stop with the continuous lying about this stuff.”

Walz being a Fudd, a politician with an A rating from NRA who then turned around and embraced the Democrat citizen disarmament agenda after he no longer needed the votes, is well known (albeit not acknowledged by Party apologists). But per Reuters, Harris’s admission to owning a gun was “a revelation that surprised some voters but carried a deliberate political message.”

The political message is “Trust me,” and evokes nothing so much as the fable of the scorpion and the frog. And as for it being a surprise, it shouldn’t be.  Even Dianne Feinstein “kept a revolver in her purse” (an elitist “privilege” denied to her constituents), and Harris’ carrying on the elitist tradition first gained wider attention when she admitted to reporters at a Moms Demand Action rally in 2019 that she did, too, “for personal safety. I was a career prosecutor.”

To read more, go here

Travel To Japan On The Cheap

Above, a view of the Sumida River and Asahi Beer Hall from the Tokyo Skytree. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Thanks to the favorable exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Japanese yen in Tokyo, Japan is not the expensive place to visit as it once was.

American visitors can even save even more money visiting Japan. 

Boing Boing has posted a video on how to travel to Japan "on the cheap."

They begin with:

Japan was once an expensive country to visit. It isn't any longer. Thanks to a favorable exchange rate, it's much cheaper to travel around Japan for a lot less than in the United States or most of Europe. Plus Japan is generally safer, cleaner, and has better food than the U.S. or Europe.

In this 30-minute YouTube video from Abroad in Japan, you'll learn how to stretch $1000 for two weeks in Japan  (excluding flights).

To see the video and read more, go here

Lonely Planet Guide To The Bahamas

Above, a view of Nassau from our cruise ship after docking. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Last month, a friend and I took a cruise to the Bahamas aboard the Norwegian Sky of Norwegian Cruise Lines.

I have always wanted to visit the Bahamas and finally I got to go. 

We had a great time visiting the islands with stops in Freeport, Nassau and doing some jet skiing at Great Stirrup Cay (a private island owned by Norwegian Cruise Line). The weather was generally decent with some rain, but it didn't dampen our enjoyment.

Above, yours truly jet skiing at Great Stirrup Cay.

As things happen, Lonely Planet has just posted a guide to the Bahamas for first-timers. It is worth a look-see for those interested in going there.

It begins with:

The Bahamas, an archipelago of 700 islands and cays (though only 30 are inhabited), is celebrated for its dazzling turquoise and pink waters, pristine beaches, and balmy weather.

Yet, this island nation offers more than just picturesque scenery – it's a vibrant mosaic of culture and history. From the rhythmic beats of Junkanoo to the mouthwatering flavors of fresh conch and sweet guava duff, The Bahamas transforms every visit into a lively adventure.

Whether diving into blue holes, sailing across sparkling seas, or reveling in local parades, each island invites you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Bahamian life. Our first-timer's guide has everything you need to know before you go.

To read the full guide, go here

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Best Lever-Action Rifles of 2024

Above, a friend with his lever-action. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

With the advent of semi-automatic rifles, it was thought that lever-action rifles are now just relics of the past.

Not so.

Lever-action rifles have seen a resurgence in recent years with new models being introduced by the likes of Smith & Wesson and Rossi among others. Personally, I have a pre-1964 Winchester 94 that I enjoy shooting.

Pew Pew Tactical has posted a list of the best lever-action rifles of 2014. 

Before getting into the nitty-gritty, they begin with:

Lever-action rifles have been around since the 1800s, putting food on the table and serving in many conflicts over the last two centuries. At the time, they were a technological advancement that enabled faster shooting than was previously possible.

As the decades advanced, they were surpassed by semi-auto rifles and largely categorized as relics from a bygone era. Thankfully, these old-school cool rifles have seen a recent resurgence in interest, with manufacturers offering remakes of old models as well as updated tactical versions.

Whether that interest is generated by restrictive gun laws or nostalgia, we’re happy to see it. Hold onto your hat, partner; we’re going to show you some of the best lever-action rifles you can still buy today! 

To read more, go here

Whistleblower: ABC Debate Collusion With Kamala Harris


While the debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump was in progress, I smelled a rat. She was just too good. 

Although her answers were evasive (to put it mildly) she seemed so ready that only someone who had the questions in advance could do.

Resist The Mainstream reported:

ABC News finds itself at the center of a controversy surrounding the recent Trump-Harris presidential debate.

The network vehemently denies allegations of collusion with Harris’s team, following the emergence of a document purportedly written by an anonymous “whistleblower.”

The unverified affidavit, allegedly sworn and notarized on September 9, claims that ABC News provided Harris with debate questions in advance and agreed to certain preconditions to give her an advantage over Trump. 

Daily Mail reported that the document, supposedly authored by a male staffer with a decade-long tenure at the network, has rapidly gained traction on social media platforms.

 
To read more, go here.

Kamala Harris On Gun Confiscation In Her Own Words


Too bad Kamala Harris's nose doesn't grow like Pinocchio's nose whenever a lie is told. It would've been several feet long when she had her debate with former President Donald Trump.

One big whopper of a lie was on her position of gun confiscation.

The NRA-ILA posted an article on what she has said about gun confiscation in the past.

They begin with:

During the September 10 presidential debate, President Donald Trump correctly highlighted Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris’s support for gun confiscation. A visibly defensive Harris claimed, “We're not taking anybody's guns away. So stop with the continuous lying about this stuff.”

Harris supports gun confiscation. Harris has repeatedly expressed support for a mandatory gun “buyback” program where Americans would be forced to turn over their firearms to the government for a set price – in other words: gun confiscation.

They then show her position on gun confiscation in her own words.

To read it, go here

"Goldfinger" Is 60 Today

Above, a 1964 French poster.

Today marks 60 years since (arguably) the best James Bond movie, Goldfinger, was released. Goldfinger had its world premiere in London's Leicester Square on 17th September 1964, according to an email I received from the 007 Store. It opened in the U.S. on December 22, 1964.

I saw the movie with my parents and two friends in downtown Torrance, California. I think the theater's name was the Stadium Theater. I was already familiar with James Bond after having seen a double-feature of Dr. No and From Russia With Love the year before.

The movie starred Sean Connery, Honor Blackman, Gert Frobe and Harold Sakata. 

This marked a beginning of "Bond Mania", at least among our group. One bought the Goldfinger soundtrack album, which we played to death.

Got Stuff Done In Gallup

Above, at Ouray, Colorado KOA Kampground two years ago. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday started out rainy. But it stopped about mid-morning.

I was going to get an oil change for the motorhome and fill its propane tank in the morning, but I thought that the ground at the RV garage would be muddy.

After getting mail from the post office around noon, I checked the ground and it was not muddy at all. So I decided to get the oil change (including trip check) and propane. Which I did. This is all in preparation for the trip to the John Wayne Cancer Foundation's Grit Series marathons outside of Ridgway, Colorado and, after that, a visit to Monument Valley Tribal Park in Utah. 

After the oil change and propane tank filling, I headed home, but I stopped first at the Flying J and filled the gas tank. Thankfully, the posted price for unleaded regular was $2.959/gallon. With my Good Sam discount, it was lowered to $2.909/gallon. Not bad!

Monday, September 16, 2024

Superman 1951 Location

During the 1951 season of the Adventures of Superman, in the "Secret of Superman" episode, there is a stock footage shot of a police car with the Barclay Apartments in the background.

Here is a screen capture from the episode:


I did some checking and the Barclay Apartments are still in existence. They are located at 706 S Normandie Ave, Los Angeles, CA near Wilshire Blvd.

This photo is from the Apartment Guide website:


RV To Utah National Parks

Above, inside Zion National Park in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Utah is not too far away from home. It is home to several national parks. I've been to a couple of them: Bryce Canyon and Zion. 

Utah is also ideal for RV travelers. Do It Yourself RV has posted an article on unforgettable RV adventures in Utah national parks.

It begins with:

As work campers who love exploring different parts of the country, my husband and I found ourselves itching to spend some time in the western U.S. So, after a summer gig in Colorado, we packed up the RV and headed to Utah for nearly a month. It was the perfect chance to unwind, explore, and celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary. And let me tell you—we were not disappointed. If you’re planning a trip, here’s our take on some of the Utah national parks we visited, with a few tips thrown in for good measure.

To read the full article, go here

Fossil With Skin Uncovered From the Asteroid’s Earth-Shattering Strike

Above, Thescelosaurus neglectus. Image by Nobu Tamura.

A fossil with skin from a dinosaur that is well-preserved has been found. It also is further proof that a mass extinction of the dinosaurs were caused by a meteor or asteroid hitting the Gulf of Mexico.

From AnimalsAroundTheGlobe:

Scientists have just made a mind-blowing discovery: a fossil dating back to the day the asteroid caused the mass extinction hit the Earth 66 million years ago. Found in North Dakota, it includes the leg of a thescelosaurus, complete with skin still intact! This dino fossil is so well-preserved, that it looks better than I do after a full night’s sleep. It’s an incredible find that everyone in the science world is talking or doubting about.

To read more, go here

Classic Rock Music Monday

The stuff that now passes as "music", particularly rock 'n roll, leaves me cold. So, to start off the week, here's a video of a classic rock artist.

To begin the week, we go to Ireland to spotlight Shane MacGowan and Sinéad O'Connor with their 1995 song, "Haunted", which features an interesting vocal contrast. Unfortunately, both MacGowan and O'Connor passed away last year. 

From Wikipedia:

Shane Patrick Lysaght MacGowan (25 December 1957 Р30 November 2023) was a British-born Irish singer-songwriter, musician and poet best known as the lead vocalist and primary lyricist of Celtic punk band the Pogues. He also produced solo material and collaborated with artists including Joe Strummer, Nick Cave, Sin̩ad O'Connor, and Cruachan. Known for his exceptional songwriting ability and his heavy alcohol and drug use, MacGowan was described by The New York Times as "a titanically destructive personality and a master songsmith whose lyrics painted vivid portraits of the underbelly of Irish immigrant life"

Also from Wikipedia:

Shuhada' Sadaqat (born Sinéad Marie Bernadette O'Connor /ʃɪˈneɪd/ shin-AYD; 8 December 1966 – 26 July 2023) was an Irish singer, songwriter, and activist. Her debut studio album, The Lion and the Cobra, was released in 1987 and achieved international chart success. Her 1990 album, I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got, was her biggest commercial success, selling over seven million copies worldwide. Its lead single, "Nothing Compares 2 U", was honoured as the top world single of the year at the Billboard Music Awards.

Sunday, September 15, 2024

Jim Morrison's Death: New Theory

Above, the Paris apartment building where Jim Morrison's body was found. Photo by Walter Miles.

The Doors lead singer, Jim Morrison, died mysteriously in Paris, France over 53 years ago.

He was allegedly found dead in the bathtub of his Paris apartment. But a new theory has surfaced. 

Three weeks ago, a video of this theory was posted on YouTube. 

The following is included in the video post: 

1 MINUTE AGO: The Mystery of Jim Morrison's Death Has FINALLY Been Solved!

The death of Jim Morrison, the enigmatic frontman of The Doors, remains one of rock's greatest mysteries. Was his sudden demise a tragic accident, or is there a hidden truth that’s been kept from us for decades?

In this video, we’ll explore the official narrative and this new, controversial theory. We’ll dive into the evidence, evaluate the credibility of the new claims, and assess how these revelations might reshape our understanding of Jim Morrison’s legacy. Join us now!

Rain Squall In Gallup

Above, the El Rancho Hotel after the rain squall clouds passed. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

A little while ago, I returned home from a trek to Gallup for some grocery shopping.

On the way there, I noticed a big black cloud with rain downpouring from it towards the southwest. I figured that it would hit Gallup within the hour.

Upon reaching Gallup, I stopped at the El Rancho Hotel for some breakfast (Monument Valley Enchiladas). While there, the storm arrived and we had some claps of thunder overhead along with downpour rain squall.

After finishing my breakfast, sure enough, the storm dumped some rain on Gallup and proceeded to head towards the east. (There was no evidence of any rain in Jamestown when I got home.) After the storm clouds passed, it got nice and warm outside.

This is probably one of the "last hurrahs" of the monsoon season which ends this month. 

Four Corners, USA

Above, the West Mitten at Monument Valley during a sunrise tour. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Now that autumn is just around the corner, it is a good time to head out into the Four Corners region of the United States. There's plenty to see and do under cooler temperatures.

The Four Corners is the subject of a travel article originating from New Zealand and is posted at The Press

It begins with:

Four Corners, United States, is an area that has always fascinated me during my career in conservation. Here on the border of Utah, Nevada, Colorado and Arizona are the most remarkable set of national parks, state parks and Navajo tribal reserves set aside specifically for their geological, cultural and biodiversity values.

My first trip here was backpacking through the US in 1983, then showing my parents these incredible parks in 1992, and occasional weekend visits when I was collaborating with the US Antarctic Program and Colorado State University in Denver for Antarctica New Zealand. So many good memories of snowcapped mountains, blue skies and bright yellow cottonwoods in the autumn come flooding back.

To read the full article, go here. 

Nighttime Theft In RV Parks


Way back in the 1960s, my family was camping with my grandfather (I don't remember where, but it was in California) and someone walked off with his Coleman lantern.

Since then, keeping the above in mind, I don't leave anything out overnight that's of any major value. I haven't had any theft problems as a result.

Campground nighttime theft is the topic of an article this morning at RV Travel

They begin it with: 

We were happy to welcome a “newbie RVer” to the campfire last night. His enthusiasm seemed to roll off him in waves! He’s beginning his full-time adventure in a previously loved (i.e., pre-owned) travel trailer. “Newbie” is a single guy who recently landed a “work from home” job. Only now it’s a “work from RV” job because this guy can’t wait to continue his travels. He’s really excited, but he has questions… and one big, disturbing question about nighttime theft.

The important question

One question prompted vigorous discussion. “What do you do with your lawn chairs, coolers, and BBQ grill at night?” That’s what “Newbie” wanted to know. I sneaked a peek at others gathered around the fire. The question seemed to take most of us by surprise.

To read more, go here

Saturday, September 14, 2024

Smoke From Arizona Fires

When I headed out to Denny's for our coffee/breakfast gathering this morning, I smelled and saw smoke in the air. Obviously, it was a fire, but I didn't know where.

The map below indicates that the smoke was from fires in Arizona. The smoke stretches from fires below Flagstaff towards Gallup, New Mexico, including our area. 

The smoke has subsided a bit or the winds shifted a bit since around 11:00.

Source: The Wildland Fire Interagency Geospatial Service


Norwegian Cruise Line Ships Ranked By Size

Above, the Norwegian Sky, is at far left next to bigger behemoths. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Taking a cruise is not my favorite means of vacationing. But I have taken three cruises (uh, so far). The most recent was last month to the Bahamas. (My favorite means of vacationing is camping in my motorhome.)

The ship we were on for the Bahamas cruise, Norwegian Sky, is not one of the biggest ships in Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet. However, it is the preferred size for me. Its capacity is 2,004. I would not like to take a cruise on one of the new behemoths (4,000 capacity), especially since the pandemic.

The Points Guy has posted a list of Norwegian's cruise ships from the biggest to the smallest. Norwegian Sky is at number 18 on the list.

They begin with:

Are you looking for the most megaresort-like, activity-packed Norwegian Cruise Line ships at sea? If so, you'll want to get on one of the biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

The biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are, almost by definition, the Norwegian Cruise Line ships with the most "stuff" — the most pools, waterslides and other deck-top attractions (even go-kart tracks), as well as the most onboard restaurants, bars and showrooms. They have the biggest spas and casinos among vessels in the Norwegian fleet and the most cabins and suites — as well as the most variation in suite and cabin types.

With room for 4,000 or more passengers, the biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are also among the most massive resorts you'll find at sea from any cruise line. They're comparable to some of the biggest resorts on land, too. If you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to a resort experience, these are the Norwegian Cruise Line ships for you.

Still, Norwegian Cruise Line doesn't just operate giant vessels. The world's fourth-biggest cruise line also has quite a few relatively small cruise ships that carry just 2,000 or so people and provide a more intimate feel. In some cases, these vessels are just half the size of Norwegian Cruise Line's biggest ships. These are vessels that, notably, have fewer deck-top activities and interior venues than the biggest Norwegian cruise ships.

The smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are best for vacationers who like a less crowded, more intimate resort experience,

To ensure you end up on the right Norwegian Cruise Line ship for you, it pays to understand which Norwegian Cruise Line ships are the biggest and which are the smallest before booking.

Here, every Norwegian Cruise Line ship currently in operation is ranked from biggest to smallest.

To see the list, go here

Harris Gun Ownership: Nobody's Buying It


Comrade Kamala Harris raised eyebrows when she said that she and Gov. Tim Walz are gun owners.

The debate didn't have much about the Second Amendment, but the comment was sparked by her recent flip-flops on "assault weapons mandatory buy-backs".

According to the Buckeye Firearms Association, nobody is buying it.

They wrote:

Near the end of the debate, Davis asked, “You wanted mandatory buybacks for assault weapons. Now your campaign says you don’t,” Davis said before asking Harris why so many of her policy positions had changed, according to The Reload.

Vice President Harris didn’t address the question and was only forced to respond later to a criticism by former President Donald Trump warning voters that if elected, the vice president would have “a plan to confiscate everyone’s gun.” She jumped in with a comment that caught viewers’ attention.

“And then this business about taking everyone’s guns away, Tim Walz and I are both gun owners,” Vice President Harris stated. “We’re not taking anyone’s guns away. So stop with the continuous lying about this stuff.”

The vice president’s remark about being a gun owner drew attention. She practically never mentions being a gun owner in all her calls for more gun control and the only reference before is a glancing mention in a 2019 CNN interview. Not surprisingly, Second Amendment supporters were skeptical of her statement.

“So now Harris owns a gun? Ha, I’d love to know what kind/caliber and how often she trains with it,” competitive shooter, GunsOut TV founder and CNN commentator Shermichael Singleton posted on X.

 To read more, go here.

Sierra For Trump

While watching last night's Trump rally in Las Vegas, Nevada last night and awaiting his arrival, I decided to have some fun with my cat Sierra.

I got out a 2020 Trump campaign button and put it on her and took some photos. They are in reference to alleged pet-eating migrants in Springfield, Ohio that have raised havoc in the town.

Here's one of the photos I took:


By the way, it's Caturday today!

Trump's Las Vegas Rally

Above, the Las Vegas rally last night before Trump's arrival. Photo by Mitch Geriminsky.

Last night, I went to bed a bit later than usual as I watched the Trump rally from Las Vegas, Nevada.

Nevada is a battleground state and is important as to the outcome of this election.

Friends Mitch & Holly Geriminsky and Dwight & Sandie Kuntz attended the rally at the World Market Center. I was able to watch the rally on Live Now On Fox.  

Trump was scheduled to arrive at 7:00 PM, but was 40 minutes late. I was in text contact with Mitch and Holly and was able to tell them when Trump's plane landed.

Above, Donald Trump addresses the Las Vegas rally. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Many speakers spoke before Trump's arrival, including former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to recounted being put on a terror watch list by the FBI after an appearance on the Laura Ingraham Show. She said a FBI whistleblower exposed this and he ended up getting fired and doxxed. The Biden-Harris Administration are using the FBI as their personal Gestapo secret police against political opponents. This will only get worse if Harris wins in November. 

Speaking of tyranny, Gabbard said last night that this is an election of "freedom versus tyranny."

The rally looked like a lot of fun.

By the way, the latest Rasmussen poll has Trump up 6% over Harris.

Friday, September 13, 2024

The John Wayne 2nd Amendment Collection

The John Wayne Stock & Supply Co. is introducing their Second Amendment Collection on Wednesday, September 18.

According to their website:



At John Wayne Stock & Supply, we’re not just continuing a name—we’re preserving a legacy.

Led by the Wayne family, our mission is to ensure that the values the Duke stood for remain alive and well in the 21st century. This isn’t just about honoring the past; it’s about protecting the principles that shaped our nation and ensuring they’re carried forward for generations to come.

The Second Amendment isn’t just a right—it’s a responsibility. It’s about more than owning a gun; it’s about the power to protect your home, your family, and your freedom. It’s a reminder that in this country, the power remains where it belongs—with the people. That’s what our 2nd Amendment Collection is all about. Every piece, from our rugged tees to our classic Zippo lighters, is designed to keep the spirit of the Second Amendment alive.

John Wayne understood the weight of responsibility that comes with freedom. He portrayed men who lived by a code, who stood tall in the face of adversity, and who knew that some things were worth fighting for. Off-screen, John Wayne lived those values himself, and they’re the same values that drive our work today.

This collection isn’t just about the past—it’s about the future. It’s about ensuring that the freedoms this country was built on are still here for the next generation. When you wear our gear, you’re not just showing respect for the Duke—you’re standing up for a legacy that’s as relevant today as it was in his time.

If you believe in the values John Wayne stood for, if you’re committed to defending the freedoms that make this country great, then this collection is for you. Wear it with pride, knowing that you’re not just honoring a legacy—you’re carrying it forward.

America has always needed protecting. It still does. And it’s up to us to keep those freedoms strong.

 

To read more, go here

 

Osaka World Expo 2025

Above, the time capsule from World Expo '70 at Osaka Castle.

Osaka is getting geared up for next year's World Expo.

The city last hosted the World Expo in 1970. During G-TOUR in 2004, we saw a time capsule from the 1970 World Expo on the grounds of Osaka Castle (image above). Will it be opened during next year's World Expo?

According to AP News:

OSAKA, Japan (AP) — Visitors to Tokyo and Kyoto might not realize it, but Osaka — one of Japan’s biggest and oldest cities, known more as a business hub than a tourist destination -- is gearing up to host next year’s World Exposition.

The city has been plastered with the Expo’s red-and-blue “Myaku-Myaku” mascot for months and is abuzz with preparations. For many here, the excitement is mixed with nostalgia for the last World Expo hosted by Japan, back in 1970.

There are doubters, especially outside Osaka. Construction costs are turning out to be exponentially higher than expected. Preparations have been marred by political and business infighting. And many Japanese, jaded after Tokyo’s difficult experience hosting the Olympics during the COVID pandemic, question whether the idea of a World Expo is still relevant.

Many retain vivid memories of the 1970 Expo. They remember schoolchildren attending multiple times, particularly those from the Osaka area. There were long lines to see the moon rocks on view at the U.S. pavilion; prototypes of electric cars; displays featuring the first ethernet cables (LAN); and the introduction of Western foods like yogurt and baguettes.

To read more, go here.

A Little Trek To Lupton, Arizona

Above, Tee Pee Trading Post yesterday. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday, I headed over to the Tee Pee Trading Post in Lupton, Arizona (40 miles away) to pick up some stogies. Lupton is at the New Mexico-Arizona border.

Since gasoline is at $3.049/gallon (with my Good Sam discount, I only paid $2.989.gallon at Flying J), it was a good time to go to Lupton.

I am waiting on an order of Olivas and it seems to be delayed, hence the trek. I was able to get $25 discounted from the total at Tee Pee Trading Post as I am a member of their discount program. 

After this, I headed into Gallup for an early dinner at Genaro's. I got the chile rellenos plate. I was able to finish the first one and part of the second one (the chile peppers they use are big, almost twice the size of the ones at Jerry's Cafe). I will finish the second relleno this morning for breakfast. 

Above, yesterday's chile rellenos at Genaro's. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I noticed a work crew working on the railroad tracks as the site of April's train derailment on the way to Gallup.

I did stop at the market for a few things before heading back home. All in all, it was an enjoyable little ride.

Thursday, September 12, 2024

Now Over 6 Million Views!

This little ol' hobby blog of mine has reached and surpassed the six million page views mark.

I didn't catch this until a few minutes ago. It seemed like it was only recently it hit five million page views. Actually, it was in January that it hit five million.

Accordingly, the header has been updated:



1964 Kennedy Special Strike Half Dollar

Above, two 1964 Kennedy half dollars. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One can be just a casual coin collector and still could possibly have a valuable coin tucked away in a sock drawer.

There is a coin that may seem common but is actually rare and quite valuable.

That would be a Special Strike Kennedy half dollar minted in 1964.

Before we get to that, here's a little history of the Kennedy half dollar from Tododisca:

The United States Mint first minted the Kennedy half dollar in 1964, a few months after the assassination of popular President John Fitzgerald Kennedy.

The Kennedy half dollar replaced the Benjamin Franklin half dollar and was made of 90% silver and 10% copper.

However, this metal composition changed from 1965 to 1970, when the Mint struck coins with a core containing 79% copper and an outer layer containing 80% silver and 20% copper. The change in metal was due to the shortage of copper at the time.

Beginning in 1971, all half dollars were minted with a core of 75% silver and 25% copper, with a pure copper core.

The design of the coin has not changed since its first mintage in 1964. The obverse shows a portrait of President Kennedy facing left, and the reverse shows a heraldic eagle holding an olive branch in one talon and a bundle of arrows in the other, symbolizing independence.

There is a variant of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar worth thousands that people could possibly have in their sock drawers. 

According to Tododisca:

The most famous variant of the Kennedy dollar is the hair accent coin minted in 1964. Kennedy’s hair appeared sharply outlined on the early coins, but the president’s widow, Jacqueline Kennedy, did not like the design, so the Mint had to soften the hair. The Mint made the necessary changes, but a limited number of proof coins had already been struck.

The 1964 Kennedy Special Strike half dollar stands out as the rarest errorless coin in its series. Its distinctive characteristics set it apart from other coins minted during that year.

A Special Strike 1964 half dollar can be identified by its smooth finish, distinctive obverse and intricate reverse design details. In addition, the edges are remarkably crisp and well-defined.

Typically, these unique coins are free of contact marks, meaning they were minted and meticulously maintained to maintain their distinctive character. Unlike proof coins, the specially minted Kennedy half dollar features a matte finish, where the only visible imperfections are the die polish lines.

To read the full article, go here

Getting The RV Road Trip Ready

Above, October camping at Goulding's Lodge Campground near Monument Valley. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The fall season is almost here and this means that some of us with RVs can hit the roads and avoid summer crowds.

There are a few things to do to get one's rig ready to roll.

RV Life has posted an article with that in mind.

They begin with:

The summer adventure season is coming to a close. But, fear not: Fall awaits! There’s no better time to unleash your inner nomad and take off on what could well be the greatest RV road trip ever. However, having RV issues can really suck when you’re in the middle of a great adventure. That’s why it’s always essential to make sure your RV is well maintained and ready for action before you hit the road.

A little preparation will go a long way toward reducing RV problems when you’re on the road. Whether you have a travel trailer, a fifth-wheel, or a motorhome, this comprehensive guide is designed to help ensure your travels are carefree and fun.

To read more, go here

Eric Swalwell's Meltdown Over Photo

This is funny.

Rep. Eric Swalwell had a bit of a meltdown during a congressional hearing over a AI photo of former President Donald Trump with a duck and a cat.

According to the Western Journal:

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell of California appeared to lose it at a Congressional hearing Tuesday over a comical image of former President Donald Trump protecting a cat and a duck.

The GOP House Judiciary Committee shared the computer-generated image on social media platform X with the caption, “Protect our ducks and kittens in Ohio.”

The picture is in reference to an unsubstantiated account from a Springfield, Ohio, resident given at a recent city commission meeting that Haitian migrants are killing and eating ducks from public parks.

Here's the photo:

 


Swalwell is known for his affair with Chinese spy Fang Fang.

To read more, go here.

By the way, here's a story of Haitians with captured geese in Ohio.

Biden Dons Trump Hat In Shanksville

Above, Biden wearing the Trump hat in Shanksville. X @TrumpWarRoom

During the debate, former President Donald Trump said that Joe Biden "hates" Kamala Harris. I think he was joking, but the following makes one wonder.

While at the Shanksville, Pennsylvania memorial ceremonies, Biden donned a MAGA Trump hat. This set social media ablaze.

From Newsweek:

President Joe Biden briefly donned a red "Trump 2024" hat during a visit to a Shanksville, Pennsylvania fire station, in what the White House described as a gesture of unity on the anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

"At the Shanksville Fire Station, @POTUS spoke about the country's bipartisan unity after 9/11 and said we needed to get back to that," White House senior deputy press secretary Andrew Bates posted on social media.

Bates said Biden gave a hat to a Trump supporter in the crowd as a friendly gesture. The supporter then asked Biden to put on a Trump cap in the name of bipartisanship, and the president went along, briefly wearing the red hat.

To read more, go here

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

CNN Instant Poll: Trump Gained Voters


The above is astonishing, not that I doubt the numbers, but the source is from CNN of all places.

What I have been reading is that Kamala Harris was not believable and her answers were too vague. Some even likened her to being a "con artist." 

No wonder Harris wants another debate with Trump. The former president likened this to a boxer who lost a match wanting a rematch. 

Patriot Day

 


From Wikipedia:

In the United States, Patriot Day occurs on September 11 of each year in memory of the people killed in the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001.

RPNM Statement on Second Presidential Debate

 


RPNM Statement on Second Presidential Debate

ALBUQUERQUE, SEPTEMBER 10—The second presidential debate of 2024 was held tonight in Philadelphia, PA, albeit with a different Democratic candidate than the first debate. This debate was the first time former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have met face to face. The questions addressed their stances on the economy, abortion, immigration, foreign policy and healthcare but at times seemed to devolve into questions focused around President Trump. The issues that are most pressing to New Mexicans are the economy, immigration, and crime.


"Tonight, New Mexicans wanted to know which candidate is going to make their groceries cheaper, their border secure, and their communities safe," said Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Steve Pearce.


"Both sides executed their points pretty well, but it’s going to come down to will voters believe the utopia Kamala Harris is selling them or what they see. Times are very tough right now and they are about to get tougher. I'm talking to people every day, restaurant owners, and small businesses that may have to close because they can't afford the rent anymore. New Mexico now has the highest poverty rate in the nation, so inflation impacts our citizens more than in any other state.


“Trump is in a stronger position through his policies to stabilize the economy, get wages up, and get costs down. On the other hand, Harris avoided addressing important questions about the economy and dodged the critical question of why Americans feel they are worse off than before the past three and a half years of her administration.


“The underlying question for Harris is why isn’t she already doing the things she is proposing, but, as usual, she did not give voters an answer.


“President Trump spoke directly to New Mexicans who know their neighborhoods have become unsafe and to our border communities who feel abandoned, those whom Harris seemed to laugh about. Harris could not explain why her administration opened the border to this crisis on their day one.


“Trump made it clear that he would protect New Mexico's oil and gas industry, which accounts for thousands of jobs and almost 50% of our state's budget. Harris had a more confusing stance. She twisted herself into a pretzel trying to explain how she supports fracking despite previously saying she wants to ban it, while also saying that her values have not changed.


“President Trump has remained consistent in his policies, and he knows them well. What you get is what you see with Trump. Tonight, we saw a very rehearsed Harris who could repeat talking points but couldn't go beyond when pressed about her past record. New Mexico is in play this year and races up and the ballot will be very competitive. If New Mexicans want to see relief in the core issues they care about—such as inflation, crime, and the border—the clear choice is the Republican ticket."