Friday, April 04, 2014

U.S.S. Cabot hit by Kamikaze: Remains of Propeller

My grandfather was the captain of a ship during WW II, and it was hit by a kamikaze.  The crew made an ash tray out of the propeller.  It reads, "Remains of Jap zeke shot down by U.S.S. Cabot.  Capt. SJ Michael, Commanding Officer, presented W.O. mess."

Unfortunately, when he was the commander of the Naval Air Station at Alameda, someone stole it.  I'm posting a photo of it here in the off chance someone owns it.


Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Google Glass Wearing Douchette Started Fight at Molotov's Bar

So the Chronicle had a story about Sarah Slocum, the woman that claimed she was attacked and rob just for wearing her Google Glass at a bar in the Haight.  As is clear from the video below, she baited the customers and was rude and obnoxious.  She's had a restraining order against her for videotaping a neighbor through a window, and even HER MOTHER got a restraining order against.   Google would be wise to vet their Google Glass guinea pigs a little better.

Buyer Beware: $3,800 to replace Hybrid Battery in Toyota Prius

Five different warning lights came on in my 2007 Prius with 154,000 miles on it.  I pulled out the owner's manual to see what each light meant, but it just said "see dealer" next to each light (so helpful!).  So I took my Prius in to the dealer and was informed that the battery needed to be replaced, for a whopping $3,800.  Mind you, that's just to replace the battery...not the transmission or the engine, which both probably have substantial wear and tear.

While I've liked my Prius, I would not buy another one, and I would warn anyone against buying a used one with high mileage.  In some states (including California) the battery is warranted up to 150,000 miles, but most states it's just 100,000.  It's not IF your battery will die, but when.  Why pay the premium for a hybrid, and take the risk of a costly repair, when many gas engine models get nearly 40 miles per gallon?  The answer is that you shouldn't.

Just another bit of advice from Dave.  You're welcome.

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

History Exposed as Folsom Lake Water Level Drops

Low water levels near Damn

Random items found at old home site

Foundation of old home at Mormon Island

Low water levels

Piece of old boat

Gold Rush era bridge, normally under water







Indian grinding rocks next to American River (normally under water)