Japanese Forces Stunned by the Power of 12-Gauge Shotguns!

 "Japanese Forces Stunned by the Power of 12-Gauge Shotguns!" by Voices of War.

Summary:

In the Pacific jungles of World War II, Japanese forces faced a weapon they never expected — the 12-gauge shotgun. What was meant for hunting turned into a devastating close-range battlefield equalizer.

Discover how U.S. Marines used raw stopping power, speed, and surprise to dominate close-quarters combat — leaving Japanese troops shocked and unprepared for the brutal effectiveness of this underrated weapon.

 

Silver Hovering At $47/toz

It looks like silver's spot price is nearing the $50/toz mark.

Right now, it is hovering around $46-47.00. 

Is There A More Iconic American Rifle Than This?

"Is There A More Iconic American Rifle Than This?" by Hickok45.

Norwegian Cruise Line Quietly Adds Fee For Extra Entrées

Above, last year's cruise to the Bahamas with Norwegian Cruise Line. 

It appears that cruise lines are continuing to add extra charges to things usually complimentary or part of the cruise package. Cruise passengers are feeling that they are being "nickel and dimed" with extra fees by cruise lines.

During my cruise to the Bahamas last year, the only extra charge I paid was for a lobster dinner. For two lobster tails, I thought the $25.00 price was reasonable

Norwegian Cruise Line is adding (quietly) adding a $5.00 charge for additional entrees in complimentary main dining rooms.

According to Cruise Hive:

Norwegian Cruise Line has quietly added a new fee to their dining menu that may surprise guests. While it’s expected that specialty restaurants have an extra charge, the cruise line is now charging $5 for any second, third, or more entrees in their complimentary main dining rooms.

The charge is printed on dining room menus, in small print at the bottom, where it might not be noticed at first.

“One entree per guest. Additional entrees will incur a $5 charge,” the menu reads.

To read more, go here. 

Top Tips For Getting Rid of Mice In Your RV

The following is one problem that I haven't had to contend with.

However, I did have a rodent-related matter to contend with after moving to New Mexico. Rodents got into the engine area of my motorhome and chewed on some lines to the dash air conditioner. This was before I had the RV garage built. I had to take the motorhome to Albuquerque for repairs at a Ford dealer. The repairs were done while I was on a cruise to Cuba.

RV Life has posted an article with tips for getting rid of mice in an RV.

They begin it with:

Fall is the time of year when mice and rats sneak into RVs, looking for a safe, warm place to raise a family. A place that’s preferably close to food resources and water. A place exactly like your RV. Unfortunately, they can often live completely unnoticed until at least a few of them have moved in. At that point, you’ll usually find their pellet like droppings or urine in drawers and cabinets, and you might seem some dark streaks around the bottom of interior walls. By the time you see an actual mouse or rat, these critters can be really difficult to get rid of. However, you’ll need to get on it fast because mice and rats can cause a lot of damage to your RV very quickly.

To read more, go here. 

Best RV Campgrounds For Your Yellowstone Adventure

Above, at West Entrance Yellowstone KOA in West Yellowstone, Montana. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yellowstone National Park in the northwest corner of Wyoming (and parts of Montana) is such a popular national park that it is almost impossible to get a campsite reservation within the park.

However, there are numerous private campgrounds and RV parks outside of Yellowstone that are easier to secure a campsite reservation. I did back in 2015 at the West Entrance Yellowstone KOA. What was nice about that campground, Buffalo Bus Touring Co. had a stop there for tours of Yellowstone. 

RV Life has posted a list of RV parks near Yellowstone that they recommend. The KOA is not on the list, but I recommend it.

They begin with:

National parks are some of the most beautiful natural areas in the country. So it makes sense that people want to camp in and around them. If you’re looking for an experience that puts you close to wildlife, geothermal activity, and scenic mountains, you’re probably looking for campgrounds near Yellowstone!

Most everyone runs off to see Old Faithful right away. It is okay, but our favorites by far were the Lamar Valley drive where we saw thousands of Bison all over the place. Really enjoyed Mammoth Hot Springs one day. Two Grizzly sightings north of Fishing Bridge in Hayden Valley, one with a cub in tow. Canyon Village has a great Visitor Information Center. I believe the most amazing view and photo opportunities was without a doubt, at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone near Canyon Village. Take a short walk on both the South and North sides. Paved trails and amazing views. — Don Sikkema

This park covers large portions of Wyoming and Montana so there are plenty of options when you’re browsing for a campground. Some people want an upscale resort experience, while others prefer rugged and secluded campgrounds. No matter what you’re looking for, you should find it somewhere in the list below.

We’ve compiled information about 5 stellar campgrounds near Yellowstone, each with their own unique features. They also gained our attention thanks to the great reviews they received from campers. After all, the guests are the ones who know best here! Each campground below has received enough rave reviews to put themselves on the map. And hopefully, you’ll be able to visit them and see their positive qualities for yourself.

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 start off the week, we have a short-lived band from Los Angeles called The Parade with their 1967 hit, "Sunshine Girl".

From Wikipedia:

The Parade was an American sunshine pop group from Los Angeles, California. 

The group featured Jerry Riopelle, who played keyboards on several Phil Spector-produced records; Murray MacLeod, an actor who appeared on Hawaii Five-O and Kung Fu; and Allen "Smokey" Roberds, another actor. They wrote a song called "Sunshine Girl" which was picked up by A&M Records, and in 1967 the tune hit #20 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 pop singles chart. Among the session musicians on this recording were drummer Hal Blaine, bassist Carol Kaye, and saxophonist Steve Douglas. Stuart Margolin, later to gain fame as an actor, co-wrote the B-side with members of the band; Margolin would end up co-writing many of the band's songs (usually with Riopelle), as well as playing percussion on some tracks.

The Parade's next two singles, "She's Got the Magic" and "Frog Prince", both failed to chart. 1968's "Radio Song" bubbled under the Hot 100 at #127, but the group broke up after two further singles - "She Sleeps Alone" and "Hallelujah Rocket" - were unsuccessful.

Mossberg 500E .410 Pump-Action Shotgun Review

MOSSBERG 500E 410 PUMP-ACTION SHOTGUN REVIEW by The Dog Pound with M-Dog

A couple of years ago, I came upon the Mossberg 500E shotgun in a stack of rifle cases left by my dad. I didn't know I had it. I tried it out and it is fun to shoot. It was made in the early 1960s before Mossberg added serial numbers. 

On the video, the summary:

The Mossberg 500E .410 Pump-Action Shotgun is a great shotgun for the new shooter / hunter to learn with or for the seasoned shooter / hunter to challenge themselves with.  This video will provide an up-close look at the shotgun and help you decide whether it’s right for you.  I hope you enjoy the video.  Stay safe and God Bless you and yours!

Old Lever-Actions That Balance Better Than Modern Copies

Above, my 1962 vintage Winchester 94 is a comfortable carry. 

Are today's modern versions of classic lever-action rifles as good as the earlier ones?

That depends upon whom one is talking to. Some are saying that the old lever-actions balance better than modern copies.

That is a topic of a slideshow article by MSN. 

They begin it with:

Modern lever-actions might bring stronger steels, threaded barrels, and optics rails, but something often feels off when you shoulder them compared to the originals. Old lever-actions were built for hunters and riders who needed a rifle that carried naturally, swung smoothly, and stayed steady in hand. The balance wasn’t an accident—it was the product of design choices that put handling ahead of bulk or accessories.

If you’ve ever carried a vintage Winchester or Marlin through the woods, you know the difference. They come to the shoulder quicker, point naturally, and feel lighter than their actual weight suggests. Modern reproductions often look the part, but once you mount them, the balance isn’t quite there. Hunters and collectors who keep the old rifles around aren’t doing it just for nostalgia. These rifles still handle in a way that’s tough to replicate, even with today’s machining. Let’s look at the classic lever-actions that continue to prove their balance is unmatched.

To see more, go here. 

Shiprock

On the way home from Moab, Utah yesterday, I took a slightly different route home from the route I took Friday to Moab for the John Wayne Cancer Foundation "Grit Series" marathons.

The route I took was one I took before from Monument Valley a year ago. It had me pass by Shiprock and into the town of Shiprock, New Mexico.

I needed to get gasoline there as I spent very little in Utah. Their gas prices were around $3.40/gallon, whereas New Mexico were around $2.84/gallon.

Despite rain squalls, the town of Shiprock (in the Navajo Nation) was busy with several flea markets and a carnival. I did manage to take the below photos of Shiprock before reaching town.

Drinks Canyon Campground (BLM)

Above, the RV at Drinks Canyon Campground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

On Friday, I headed to Moab, Utah to help with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation "Grit Series" marathons.

It was a six hour drive from home. 

Above, red cliffs and Colorado River near the campground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I decided that I would try to stay at a BLM campground along the Colorado River in a canyon next to Arches National Park. There are several BLM campgrounds and they are first-come, first-serve. It is outside of Moab, Utah on Highway 128. 

Above, a view from the campsite. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I reached the canyon at about noon and the first campgrounds were already full, but when I reached Drinks Canyon Campground, they had several campsites available. Campsite 13 (lucky number, eh?) was the largest of the ones available that would accommodate the motorhome. After filling out the payment envelope, I set up camp. The campground was only nine miles from Red Cliffs Lodge, the headquarters for the marathons. That worked out great as volunteers have to arrive at 5:00 am.

Above, another view from the campsite. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The fee for overnight stays is $20/night. There's no water available or trash cans. It is dry camping and one must "pack it in, pack it out". There is a restroom at the campground.

It is in a beautiful area with tall red cliffs along the Colorado River. 

For more information, go here.

Grit Series Marathons In Moab

Above, runners were already on the course before sunrise. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This year's Grit Series marathons benefitting the John Wayne Cancer Foundation was held yesterday outside of Moab, Utah. 

I volunteered for the event and was assigned to the main parking area directing arrivals. I was told that 100 participants took part last year and 200 this year. I believe it. The lot at Red Cliffs Lodge was full and the shuttle buses were transporting participants to the starting/finishing area. I was kept busy for about two hours or more and on my feet. I was a little exhausted afterwards.

After finishing those "parking attendant" duties, I was given a ride to the marathon starting/finishing line. 

Above, Ethan Wayne holding my donation check in memory of Richard Pusateri.

There, met up with Ethan Wayne, John Wayne's youngest son, and gave him a donation to the John Wayne Cancer Foundation in memory of Richard Pusatari, who passed away in February (on my birthday). We took a picture with Ethan holding the check for posting at Richard's Facebook page (which I did last evening). 

I was going to stay Saturday night, but I heard that storms were coming in (at this writing, we're having a thunderstorm that woke me), so I decided to head out. It was a nice drive, with little rain while in Utah. But when I reached the Shiprock, New Mexico area, it was storming and got even worse when I reached Tohatchi, New Mexico. It continued on when I entered Gallup. 

I stopped for lunch at an A & W Root Beer restaurant in Blanding, Utah. It was a little disappointing: no frosted mug. I was just handed a plastic cup to fill it myself McDonalds style. They were selling glass mugs for $4.95, but I already have two vintage ones. That's enough.

Still, I had a good time and did my bit for the Foundation. 

Some photos:

Above, the Red Cliffs Lodge parking area with the Colorado River. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, the Red Cliffs Lodge. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, the starting/finishing line arch. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, the canopies with Foundation swag. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, spectators relaxing at the maraton area. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, horseback riders chatting with spectators. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

"Circus World" Home Movie

Below is a home movie taken during the filming of Circus World (1964) with John Wayne, Rita Hayworth and Claudia Cardinale. 

R.I.P. Claudia Cardinale.

Rain In Moab Area This Weekend?

Last year, rain hit the Ridgway, Colorado area about the time the John Wayne Cancer Foundation's Grit Series marathons ended.

Everyone had to hurry and pack up equipment as the rains started.

This weekend, the marathons will be held outside of Moab, Utah. I am heading there as a volunteer. 

It looks like there is a chance of rain in the vicinity according to the National Weather Service:

 Today

Sunny, with a high near 84. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.

Tonight

Increasing clouds, with a low around 62. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming southeast in the evening.

Friday

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms between 9am and noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. South wind around 5 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 10%.

Friday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Saturday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming south southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Saturday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Sunday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before noon, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Hopefully, the marathons will not get drenched.

Claudia Cardinale Dies At 87

Above, John Wayne and Claudia Cardinale in Circus World.

Italian actress Claudia Cardinale has died at the age of 87.

According to the BBC:

Claudia Cardinale, the Tunisian-born Italian star of The Leopard, 8 1/2 and Pink Panther, has died at the age of 87.

She had a six-decade long career, rising to fame during the golden age of Italian cinema, and was directed by greats such as Federico Fellini and Luchino Visconti.

The actress died at Nemours in France in the company of her children, according to her agent Laurent Savry.

"She leaves us the legacy of a free and inspired woman both as a woman and as an artiste," Savry told AFP news agency.

Born in Tunisia to Sicilian parents in April 1938, Cardinale won a beauty contest at 16 that saw her declared "the most beautiful Italian woman in Tunis". 

Last year, I visited the John Wayne Birthplace and Museum in Winterset, Iowa and picked up a DVD copy of Circus World (1964) starring Wayne, Rita Hayworth and Claudia Cardinale. 

To read more, go here.

Trigger, Bullet and Buttercup Headed To The Reagan Library

Above, Trigger and Bullet at John Wayne: An American Experience in 2021. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since its opening in 2020, the John Wayne: An American Experience museum at the Fort Worth Stockyards has featured in the main lobby Trigger and Bullet, Roy Rogers horse and dog. Later, Dale Evans's horse, Buttercup was added to the display.

They will be having a "going away" party this coming Saturday as they are to be sent to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California.

Above, Ronald and Nancy Reagan with Roy Rogers.

I visited the John Wayne: An American Experience in January 2021. Upon entering, visitors immediately saw the animals on display. 

For details on the going away party, go here.

Why You Shouldn’t Trust Online Cruise Reviews

Above, onboard entertainers during a cruise to Havana, Cuba. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

On occasion, I will peruse reviews of travel experiences by ordinary people. Naturally, different people have differing opinions. That's where the proverbial "grain of salt" comes in. 

One may have enjoyed the experience while another was totally miserable. This goes for cruises.

Reviews are subjective. Some may even be shills for a cruise line company.  

Above, yours truly at the Plaza de la Revolución in Havana, Cuba. Photo by Mitch Geriminsky.

Cruise Hive posted an article on why people should not trust online cruise reviews. 

They begin it with:

Have you ever been told to not believe everything you hear or read on the internet? This advice holds true for cruise ship reviews.

While many cruise guests like to read reviews of different ships before booking their sailing, this isn’t always the best idea.

Here are six reasons why you should think twice before you let online cruise ship reviews determine your vacation plans.

To read more, go here. 

5 Best Cruise Lines For Retirees

Above, a cruise ship near a Alaska glacier. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To be honest, taking cruises isn't my favorite mode of travel. Yes, I've been on three cruises and enjoyed each one of them. My favorite mode of travel is RVing. If a cruise comes up that is very interesting to me, I may indulge myself and go.

That being said, for seniors who do not have an RV, cruises may be just what one's doctor ordered.  

Above, a view of Skagway, Alaska. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Kiplinger has posted the five best cruise lines for seniors. Of the five, I have cruised with one of them, Celebrity Cruises. The cruise I took was to Alaska.

They begin with:

Retirement is the perfect time to set sail. Whether you’re chasing fun, adventure, or bucket-list destinations, cruises offer seniors the comfort, easy access, and unforgettable experiences they deserve after years of work.

According to Shore Excursions Group, seniors make up a significant share of the cruise market, with 32% of passengers being 65-plus.

"Additionally," says Jason R. Margulies, Partner & Maritime Attorney at Lipcon, Marqulies & Winkleman, "since cruises are a mode of transport in and of themselves, seniors don’t have to worry about the chaos of packing and unpacking at each port, moving to different hotels and rooms every night, and the other concerns that come with traveling by land or air to the next destination."

If you’re looking for an experience on ocean waves or river swells, dive into why cruises offer an out-of-this-world adventure for retirees, what to look for in a cruise line, and our top picks for the five best ones suited to active golden agers.

Above, our ship, Celebrity Mercury, docked at Juneau, Alaska. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here. 

Testing A 100-Year-Old Winchester 94

New video from Outdoor Tactics.

Topic: Testing A 100-Year-Old Winchester 94

Summary: 

In this video, we'll put a 110-year-old Winchester Model 94 .30-30 lever-action rifle to the test for the 2025 deer season. This vintage rifle was restored in Part 1, and now we’re testing its capability to bring down a deer in 2025. The results are impressive – despite its age, this lever-action prints tight groups at typical deer-hunting range, proving that old guns can still shoot straight.

How To Identify Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Poison Sumac

Above, from my old Boy Scout Handbook. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Ever hear the phrase, "Leaves of three, let it be"?

While in the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, that was drummed into us as an easy way to avoid poison ivy. That being the case, I have never had any run-ins with poisonous plants while camping. 

How to identify poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac is the topic of an article and video in RV Travel.  

They begin it with:

Greg from Outdoor Goyo is here to help us all stay rash- and itch-free with his terrific video on how to identify poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. And just in case you are seeing this video too late, Greg also covers how to treat the uncomfortable, itchy rashes that can happen if you or someone you love interacts with these poisonous plants.

The video begins with how to identify poison oak, poison ivy, and poison sumac. Be sure to watch the video as it is best to see what it is you are trying to avoid.

To read more and see the video, go here. 

Best RV Lengths For National Park Campgrounds

Above, the campsite I had at Yosemite's North Pines Campground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since I bought my motorhome, I have stayed in several national parks. As it is 23 feet long, finding a campsite that would accommodate it has been no problem.

National parks I have stayed in include Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Grand Canyon and Lassen Volcanic. Each national park has campsites that easily accommodated my motorhome. 

Above, Lassen Volcanic's Manzanita Lake Campground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

RV Travel has posted an article on the best RV lengths for national park campgrounds.

They begin it with:

Visiting and camping in America’s national parks is near the top of most RVers’ bucket lists. One crucial factor that can make or break an RVer’s camping experience is whether an RV will fit into a campsite. Let’s explore what size RV is ideal for national park camping, and what you should expect when trying to find a spot.

The national park RV size dilemma

Many national park campgrounds were built long before RVs became as big as they are today. While national parks very often offer some breathtaking scenic views, they often come with smaller and less accommodating campsites for larger RVs. Knowing the right size RV for these campgrounds is essential before making a reservation.

To read more, go here.

Rainy Day

Above, no driving, Jeep or otherwise, today due to rain. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It doesn't look like I'll be doing much, or any, driving today. Jeep or otherwise.

Right now, it is raining here in Jamestown, New Mexico.

I do have to go into Gallup this week to pick up my prescription refills. But I won't be doing so today. 

According to the National Weather Service, the weather here this week is looking like this:

Today

Showers likely before noon, then scattered showers and thunderstorms between noon and 3pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 3pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 68. Southwest wind 5 to 15 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tonight

Isolated showers and thunderstorms before 9pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 48. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming light and variable after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Light and variable wind becoming northwest 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 42. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southeast after midnight.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 74. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 45.

Thursday

A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Sunny, with a high near 77.

Thursday Night

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 51. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Friday

A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 73. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Friday Night

A chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight, then a slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 49. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Saturday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 70.

Saturday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48.

Strange RV Laws

Above, by law in Montana, RVs are required to yield to horses crossing the road. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

A couple of months ago, we took a drive to Little Bighorn National Monument near Crow Agency, Montana. 

While in the park we drove from Last Stand Hill to the Reno-Benteen battlefield. On the way back to Last Stand Hill, some horses were slowly crossing the road. I, and several others, stopped to let them cross the road (photo above). Little did I know at the time, by law, RV drivers are required to yield to horses in Montana. 

RV Travel posted a list of odd, quirky, "head scratcher" RV laws you've never heard of. The above was one of them (number 7 on the list).

They begin the article with:

Travel with an RV is promoted as offering the height of freedom. The idea is simple: Go where you want, when you want. The reality? Owning an RV means signing up for a crash course in rules and quirks. From sleeping in your own driveway to being forced to yield to horses, these odd laws can ruin a trip before it starts.

In the video at the end of this post, the team from The Camping Loop highlights nine strange RV laws you likely never knew existed.

To read the complete list and see the video, go here. 

President Trump At Charlie Kirk Memorial

 

Donald Trump Jr. Imitates Dad At Charlie Kirk Memorial

 

Erika Kirk Forgives Assassin

In front of millions of people, Erika Kirk forgave her husbands murderer

That is the power of Christ…

Drop a 🙏 If Christ is KINGhttps://t.co/8KobAcUFUo pic.twitter.com/d0UPpavLWO

— MJTruthUltra (@MJTruthUltra) September 21, 2025

RFK Jr. At Charlie Kirk Memorial

 

RFK Jr. becomes filled with emotion as he shares an unforgettable conversation he had with Charlie Kirk about death.

The long pause at the 22-second mark said it all. You could feel how heavily Kirk’s passing was weighing on him.

“We were talking about the risk that all of us… pic.twitter.com/mXhhMhwuKe

— Vigilant Fox 🦊 (@VigilantFox) September 21, 2025

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 start off the week, we have AC/DC out of Australia with their 1980 hit, "Back In Black".

From Wikipedia:

AC/DC are an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1973. Their music has been variously described as hard rock, blues rock and heavy metal, although the band calls it simply "rock and roll". They are cited as a formative influence on the new wave of British heavy metal bands. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 and have sold over 200 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Winchester 94 30-30 Vintage 1929

Hickok45 Shoots a vintage Winchester 94 made in 1929.

Summary:

Shooting and discussing a fine old Model 94 made in 1929. I think that qualifies as a "Pre-64" Winchester. 

Six Mile Canyon Drive

Above, one of the inhabitants of Six Mile Canyon. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Finally, I took the first drive into Cibola National Forest's Six Mile Canyon near Jamestown, New Mexico today.

Until the beginning of this month, the Jeep had been out of commission since late May. I got the problem (a short or something with the coil that fried the points in the distributor) earlier this month. I also got new tires for the Jeep. So she was ready to go.

It is amazing how green plant life has gotten once we started getting some rain. That, plus flowers, made the canyon look like springtime. 

During the drive, there were many cattle grazing along the road. They belong to a local rancher who has a deal with the Forest Service to have his cattle graze in the national forest. This helps in keeping down the fuel for fires.

It was an enjoyable drive. The new tires made handling a lot easier.

More photos:

Above, a stop at the windmill. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, approaching the cattle. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, taking the approach slow so not to spook them. Photoby Armand Vaquer.

Above, the cattle at one of their watering holes. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, the Jeep at the windmill. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, one cow watching me while another grazes. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Tenth Anniversary of Jack Larson's Passing

Above, the Superman Plaque Dedication in August 2014
in Tarzana as covered by the Los Angeles Daily News.

Jim Nolt of The Adventures Continue posted on Facebook that it was ten years ago today that Jack Larson, who immortalized the character of Jimmy Olsen on the Adventures of Superman, passed away.

He died at his home in Brentwood, California.

A memorial service was held at UCLA a few months later at the James Bridges Theater, which I attended. Afterwards, several of us went over to the Smoke House Restaurant in Burbank, within walking distance of Warner Bros. Studios. 

Above, the memorial booklet.

It is hard to believe that ten years has passed.  

Driving Weather

Above, in Six Mile Canyon five years ago. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since I haven't been in Six Mile Canyon of the Cibola National Forest near our subdivision all summer, I was hoping to do so yesterday.

But, Mother Nature had other plans as it rained yesterday. 

Today seems like it will be having decent enough weather to take a drive into the canyon. The next rain may be coming Sunday night.

According to the National Weather Service for this weekend:

Today

Sunny, with a high near 76. West wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Southwest wind 5 to 15 mph.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 77. West wind 5 to 10 mph increasing to 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon.

Sunday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 54. West wind 5 to 15 mph.

Monday

A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 71. West wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Inside The "Alien Autopsy" Video

Above, the alien autopsy display at the Roswell International UFO Museum. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Remember the alien autopsy video that surfaced back around 1995 during the heyday of Art Bell's Coast-To-Coast radio show?

Well, the video has resurfaced again. 

With interest in UFOs (or UAPs) rising thanks to information being released by the government, the video has been dusted off and brought out again.

The Daily Mail (U.K.) posted an article on this and it begins with:

An 18-minute video of an alleged alien autopsy that sent the world into a frenzy decades ago has resurfaced as investigations into UFOs have reached a fever pitch.

The shocking film, showing three people in hazmat suits dissecting what appeared to be an alien body from the 1947 Roswell crash in New Mexico, was originally released in 1995.

The grainy black-and-white footage was televised worldwide, revealing a humanoid figure with a large head and dark eyes being cut open, further fueling the growing speculation of a government cover-up.

Millions of viewers were fascinated because the film seemed to prove that aliens existed, especially as shows like The X-Files were becoming a cultural phenomenon.

Years later, however, the film's producers admitted it was all a sophisticated hoax filmed in a London apartment using animal parts and plastic casts.

Despite their confession, questions remained, as one of the filmmakers behind the fake alien autopsy claimed the video was based on a real recording of scientists examining the remains of a dead extraterrestrial.

The film has now surged back into the public conversation about alien life, thanks to a new docuseries that is set to explore this mystery, diving into the video's creation 30 years ago and its lasting impact on UFO culture.

Above, yours truly with a couple of aliens at the 2018 Roswell UFO Festival.

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