Archive for September, 2006

Today In History: Death of James Dean

Saturday, September 30th, 2006

September 30th: Today in 1955 actor James Dean was killed when a car crossed the median and hit his head on. Dean’s death is as much a legend as his life, with sexed up accounts of the accidents including his alleged reckless driving and final words obscuring the more banal facts of the death. People [...]

The Battle Continues

Saturday, September 30th, 2006

Humans are not entirely ready to give in to our new squirrel overlords just yet, the people of South Bay Park are taking the battle back to them! Naturally the squirrel’s fifth column allies comment “The squirrels will be back,” South Bay wildlife rehabilitator Norma Campbell said. “For every one you take out, two more [...]

Today In History: Massacre at Babi Yar

Friday, September 29th, 2006

September 29th: Today in 1941 the German’s began the systematic slaughter of Jews in Kiev, ultimately leading to the execution of 33,000 over three days at a ravine called Babi Yar. Later Gypsies (Roma) and Russian P.O.W.s were also executed at the site making it a true monument to Nazi horror.

Too Much Time On Our Hands

Thursday, September 28th, 2006

If you need more proof that we as a society have waaaay too much time on our hands check out this brilliant photo set of a Zombie Rights protest march in Austin, Texas. I love that Pirates turned out to counter protest, all we need now is Ninjas and the world would be in order. [...]

Today In History: Siege of Yorktown Begins

Thursday, September 28th, 2006

September 28th: Today in 1781 the American and French armies arrive to begin the Siege of Yorktown which results in the capture of the last major British field army of the American Revolution. I have often commented on George Washington’s failings as a battlefield commander, but I have never denied his strategic abilities, which were [...]

Today In History: Ben Johnson Stripped of Medal

Wednesday, September 27th, 2006

September 27th: Today in 1988 sprinter Ben Johnson was stripped of his medal and sent home for the Seoul Olympic Games for taking drugs to improve his performance. I am aware that this is now a constant event in sports, but this was the first I remember as a big issue. I recall thinking at [...]