My Blog
What I find interesting and/or want to remember
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The Last 30 days
The Last 30 days
Wednesday July 16, 2025
Wednesday July 16, 2025
We had some storms this afternoon and into the evening. They didn’t seem too severe to me, but I later noticed a large branch down in the cemetery.
We had some storms this afternoon and into the evening. They didn’t seem too severe to me, but I later noticed a large branch down in the cemetery.
The Pirates traded Adam Frazier to the Royals in exchange for minor league infielder Cam Devanney. I can’t help but wonder if this is just the beginning of several moves the Pirates will make before the end of the month.
The Pirates traded Adam Frazier to the Royals in exchange for minor league infielder Cam Devanney. I can’t help but wonder if this is just the beginning of several moves the Pirates will make before the end of the month.
Brianna and Megan called me on FaceTime while enjoying s’mores for lunch. Brianna said she’s just a month away from moving into her dorm. She’s been keeping busy, working two jobs—one at an assisted living facility and the other back with the Wild Things for the summer. Megan has applied to the same assisted living home and is hoping to land an interview soon.
Brianna and Megan called me on FaceTime while enjoying s’mores for lunch. Brianna said she’s just a month away from moving into her dorm. She’s been keeping busy, working two jobs—one at an assisted living facility and the other back with the Wild Things for the summer. Megan has applied to the same assisted living home and is hoping to land an interview soon.
Tuesday July 15, 2025
Tuesday July 15, 2025
As I think of summer as the months of June, July, and August, I realized today marks the approximate end of the first half of the season—with the second half now before us. It’s going by quickly.
As I think of summer as the months of June, July, and August, I realized today marks the approximate end of the first half of the season—with the second half now before us. It’s going by quickly.
In tonight’s All-Star Game, Paul Skenes threw a perfect first inning, retiring the side in order and striking out two. The game ended tied 6-6 after nine innings. Under a rule adopted in 2022 for the Midsummer Classic, a tie is decided by a home run swing-off. Kyle Schwarber won it, launching three home runs on three swings.
In tonight’s All-Star Game, Paul Skenes threw a perfect first inning, retiring the side in order and striking out two. The game ended tied 6-6 after nine innings. Under a rule adopted in 2022 for the Midsummer Classic, a tie is decided by a home run swing-off. Kyle Schwarber won it, launching three home runs on three swings.
Monday July 14, 2025
Monday July 14, 2025
I met with Don and Ralph in the morning, then spent the afternoon with Jason and Debbie. Jason and I worked for a couple of hours drafting the amendments for the upcoming January 27 church business meeting.
I met with Don and Ralph in the morning, then spent the afternoon with Jason and Debbie. Jason and I worked for a couple of hours drafting the amendments for the upcoming January 27 church business meeting.
Meanwhile, in the Home Run Derby, Cal Raleigh pulled off a dramatic win. He edged out his opponent in the first round by just 0.96 inches in a tiebreaker, then left no doubt the rest of the way—crushing 19 home runs in the semifinals and outdueling Junior Caminero in the finals to become the first catcher ever to win the event. O'Neil Cruz made his own mark, blasting the longest homer of the night—a 513-foot Cruz-missile.
Meanwhile, in the Home Run Derby, Cal Raleigh pulled off a dramatic win. He edged out his opponent in the first round by just 0.96 inches in a tiebreaker, then left no doubt the rest of the way—crushing 19 home runs in the semifinals and outdueling Junior Caminero in the finals to become the first catcher ever to win the event. O'Neil Cruz made his own mark, blasting the longest homer of the night—a 513-foot Cruz-missile.
Sunday July 13, 2025
Sunday July 13, 2025
I noticed that all the painting has been completed at the Second Avenue Park for both the pickleball and basketball courts. It really looks sharp.
I noticed that all the painting has been completed at the Second Avenue Park for both the pickleball and basketball courts. It really looks sharp.
The All-Star break is here, marking the halfway point of the 2025 season. Unfortunately, the Pirates flunked the first semester. With 60% of the 162 games in the books, the Bucs sit 19 games below .500. They’ve got solid pitching—but they just can’t hit. So, with the 6th overall pick in tonight’s draft, they took a hitter, right? Wrong. With the #6 pick, they drafted another high school pitcher. Actually, they did pretty well in the draft, getting Seth Hernandez, RHP, Corona (Calif.) HS who was thought to be the third best player in the draft.
The All-Star break is here, marking the halfway point of the 2025 season. Unfortunately, the Pirates flunked the first semester. With 60% of the 162 games in the books, the Bucs sit 19 games below .500. They’ve got solid pitching—but they just can’t hit. So, with the 6th overall pick in tonight’s draft, they took a hitter, right? Wrong. With the #6 pick, they drafted another high school pitcher. Actually, they did pretty well in the draft, getting Seth Hernandez, RHP, Corona (Calif.) HS who was thought to be the third best player in the draft.
Meanwhile, the Tigers hold the best record at the break (59–38). The Red Sox, who were left for dead earlier in the season, have suddenly come alive—winners of 10 straight and now 8 games over .500. And don’t sleep on the Brewers. They’ve won 7 in a row and 21 of their last 30.
Meanwhile, the Tigers hold the best record at the break (59–38). The Red Sox, who were left for dead earlier in the season, have suddenly come alive—winners of 10 straight and now 8 games over .500. And don’t sleep on the Brewers. They’ve won 7 in a row and 21 of their last 30.
Now, for the question often asked. If the season is 60% completed, why is the all streak considered the marker between the first and second half of the season?
Now, for the question often asked. If the season is 60% completed, why is the all streak considered the marker between the first and second half of the season?
1. Tradition and Simplicity
1. Tradition and Simplicity
It’s a long-standing tradition to mark the All-Star Game as the symbolic midpoint of the season. It’s a convenient, high-profile event that provides a natural pause — even if the math doesn’t quite add up.
It’s a long-standing tradition to mark the All-Star Game as the symbolic midpoint of the season. It’s a convenient, high-profile event that provides a natural pause — even if the math doesn’t quite add up.
2. Psychological Reset
2. Psychological Reset
The All-Star break gives players, fans, and teams a moment to stop, reflect, and reset — regardless of the actual game count. It divides the season into a “before and after” and is often treated as the turning point for momentum shifts, trade deadline preparation, and playoff outlooks.
The All-Star break gives players, fans, and teams a moment to stop, reflect, and reset — regardless of the actual game count. It divides the season into a “before and after” and is often treated as the turning point for momentum shifts, trade deadline preparation, and playoff outlooks.
3. Media and Marketing
3. Media and Marketing
For broadcasters and writers, calling it the “halfway point” is easier to digest than saying “the 60% mark.” It frames the season nicely and builds anticipation for the “second half,” even though that second half is technically shorter.
For broadcasters and writers, calling it the “halfway point” is easier to digest than saying “the 60% mark.” It frames the season nicely and builds anticipation for the “second half,” even though that second half is technically shorter.
4. Scheduling Realities
4. Scheduling Realities
MLB schedules aren’t evenly split. The league prioritizes travel logistics, weather patterns, and other variables when creating the schedule — so the actual halfway point in terms of games usually happens a week or two before the All-Star Game.
MLB schedules aren’t evenly split. The league prioritizes travel logistics, weather patterns, and other variables when creating the schedule — so the actual halfway point in terms of games usually happens a week or two before the All-Star Game.
In short:
In short:
It’s not literally halfway — it’s symbolically halfway. And over time, that symbolism has stuck.
It’s not literally halfway — it’s symbolically halfway. And over time, that symbolism has stuck.
Saturday July 12, 2025
Saturday July 12, 2025
Skenes and Skubal: All-Star Aces
Skenes and Skubal: All-Star Aces
Paul Skenes is starting the All-Star Game again! That’s two years in a row for the 23-year-old, who just made his MLB debut back in May of 2024. It’s wild to think he was drafted just a little over two years ago, and now he's getting the ball to start for the National League. The guy’s a machine.
Paul Skenes is starting the All-Star Game again! That’s two years in a row for the 23-year-old, who just made his MLB debut back in May of 2024. It’s wild to think he was drafted just a little over two years ago, and now he's getting the ball to start for the National League. The guy’s a machine.
On the American League side, Tarik Skubal keeps showing he might just be the best pitcher in baseball. After winning the AL Triple Crown last year — 2.39 ERA, 228 strikeouts, and 18 wins — and taking home the Cy Young, he’s somehow even better this season. Through 19 starts, he's rocking a 2.23 ERA, a 4.7 WAR, and a ridiculous 153-to-16 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 121 innings.
On the American League side, Tarik Skubal keeps showing he might just be the best pitcher in baseball. After winning the AL Triple Crown last year — 2.39 ERA, 228 strikeouts, and 18 wins — and taking home the Cy Young, he’s somehow even better this season. Through 19 starts, he's rocking a 2.23 ERA, a 4.7 WAR, and a ridiculous 153-to-16 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 121 innings.
Both of these guys are must-watch every time they take the mound. Can’t wait to see them go head-to-head with the best in the game.
Both of these guys are must-watch every time they take the mound. Can’t wait to see them go head-to-head with the best in the game.
Friday July 11, 2025
Friday July 11, 2025
Mark stopped by today. While he was here, I asked him to take a look at my bed—specifically, the headboard where some of the dowel rods had broken or come loose. I wanted his opinion on the best way to fix it. After a quick look, his advice was simple: “Go down to Fallers.” So I did.
Mark stopped by today. While he was here, I asked him to take a look at my bed—specifically, the headboard where some of the dowel rods had broken or come loose. I wanted his opinion on the best way to fix it. After a quick look, his advice was simple: “Go down to Fallers.” So I did.
I figured I spend about a third of my life in bed, and with my shoulders and back giving me problems at times, maybe it was time for something better. I had a price in mind—modest, reasonable. But I walked out of there having spent three times that amount. Why? Because I bought a bed that does everything but fly.
I figured I spend about a third of my life in bed, and with my shoulders and back giving me problems at times, maybe it was time for something better. I had a price in mind—modest, reasonable. But I walked out of there having spent three times that amount. Why? Because I bought a bed that does everything but fly.
I’m thinking (hoping?) this will be the last bed I ever buy—though one never knows.
I’m thinking (hoping?) this will be the last bed I ever buy—though one never knows.
While testing out mattresses, I narrowed it down to two choices: firm or medium. I kept going back and forth, lying on each one, trying to decide. At some point, I laid my glasses down on the medium mattress and—of course—forgot they were there. One roll later, and I’d crushed the frames beyond repair.
While testing out mattresses, I narrowed it down to two choices: firm or medium. I kept going back and forth, lying on each one, trying to decide. At some point, I laid my glasses down on the medium mattress and—of course—forgot they were there. One roll later, and I’d crushed the frames beyond repair.
So, poorer than when I walked in, I left Fallers and headed straight to Clarion Eye Care. They were just about to close for the weekend. After pulling up my file, they told me they actually had my frames in stock. As one of the staff members worked to fit my lenses into the new pair, I told the girl at the desk I might as well pay while I waited.
So, poorer than when I walked in, I left Fallers and headed straight to Clarion Eye Care. They were just about to close for the weekend. After pulling up my file, they told me they actually had my frames in stock. As one of the staff members worked to fit my lenses into the new pair, I told the girl at the desk I might as well pay while I waited.
To my surprise, she smiled and said, “No charge—your frames are under a one-year warranty, and you just got them last December.”
To my surprise, she smiled and said, “No charge—your frames are under a one-year warranty, and you just got them last December.”
For a brief moment, I thought, “Look at all the money I saved!” Then I remembered the several hundred dollars I’d just dropped at Fallers. So it goes.
For a brief moment, I thought, “Look at all the money I saved!” Then I remembered the several hundred dollars I’d just dropped at Fallers. So it goes.
Thursday July 10, 2025
Thursday July 10, 2025
The Leader-Vindicator newspaper recently named the top athletes from each local school, recognizing them as the school's "Fab Five." Both Hannah and Brody were honored as part of C-L’s top five selections.
The Leader-Vindicator newspaper recently named the top athletes from each local school, recognizing them as the school's "Fab Five." Both Hannah and Brody were honored as part of C-L’s top five selections.
The Elders met from 5:30 to around 9:00 p.m. to conduct interviews for a new Ministry Assistant, the position formerly known as Office Manager. Debbie Miles, who currently holds the role, will be retiring on September 30 and plans to move to Erie. We’re grateful for her years of faithful service and are now prayerfully seeking the right person to step into this important role.
The Elders met from 5:30 to around 9:00 p.m. to conduct interviews for a new Ministry Assistant, the position formerly known as Office Manager. Debbie Miles, who currently holds the role, will be retiring on September 30 and plans to move to Erie. We’re grateful for her years of faithful service and are now prayerfully seeking the right person to step into this important role.
Wednesday July 9, 2025
Wednesday July 9, 2025
I began planning a road trip for the first week of October—a loop that will take Frank and me through some of the most scenic parts of the Northeast. The itinerary includes a stop in Ottawa, then a drive along the beautiful St. Lawrence River to Quebec City. From there, we’ll head down into Maine, then cross New Hampshire and Vermont, eventually making our way to Lake Placid. I’m hoping to catch the vibrant fall foliage, enjoy fresh lobster on the coast, and maybe even spot a moose or two along the way.
I began planning a road trip for the first week of October—a loop that will take Frank and me through some of the most scenic parts of the Northeast. The itinerary includes a stop in Ottawa, then a drive along the beautiful St. Lawrence River to Quebec City. From there, we’ll head down into Maine, then cross New Hampshire and Vermont, eventually making our way to Lake Placid. I’m hoping to catch the vibrant fall foliage, enjoy fresh lobster on the coast, and maybe even spot a moose or two along the way.
Meanwhile, the Pirates dropped another one to Kansas City, falling to 0-6 on this nine-game road trip. The contrast between home and away games is pretty stark—Pittsburgh is 26-21 at PNC Park but a rough 12-35 on the road. It’s been a tough stretch for the Bucs.
Meanwhile, the Pirates dropped another one to Kansas City, falling to 0-6 on this nine-game road trip. The contrast between home and away games is pretty stark—Pittsburgh is 26-21 at PNC Park but a rough 12-35 on the road. It’s been a tough stretch for the Bucs.
Tuesday July 8, 2025
Tuesday July 8, 2025
Today I began watching Season 5 of The Chosen—The Last Supper.
Today I began watching Season 5 of The Chosen—The Last Supper.
The Blue Jays have now won 10 games in a row, leaving them just one win shy of tying the longest winning streak in franchise history, last achieved in 2015. Their 54th win is also the most they’ve ever recorded before the All-Star break.
The Blue Jays have now won 10 games in a row, leaving them just one win shy of tying the longest winning streak in franchise history, last achieved in 2015. Their 54th win is also the most they’ve ever recorded before the All-Star break.
The Jays are tied with Houston as the hottest teams in baseball over the past 30 games, with both clubs going 21–9.
The Jays are tied with Houston as the hottest teams in baseball over the past 30 games, with both clubs going 21–9.
Meanwhile, Detroit leads the majors with 59 wins. The Tigers boast six regulars with an OPS over .800, and a starting rotation—led by Tarik Skubal—that’s well above average. Add to that a dominant bullpen, and it’s no surprise they’re setting the pace.
Meanwhile, Detroit leads the majors with 59 wins. The Tigers boast six regulars with an OPS over .800, and a starting rotation—led by Tarik Skubal—that’s well above average. Add to that a dominant bullpen, and it’s no surprise they’re setting the pace.
Monday July 7, 2025
Monday July 7, 2025
Monday July 7, 2025
Monday July 7, 2025
Today was the sixth day this summer that the temperature climbed above 90°.
Today was the sixth day this summer that the temperature climbed above 90°.
Ralph, Don, and I had our usual two-hour meeting in the morning. In the evening, I went to the church for a Joint Session meeting, followed by an Elders meeting. Altogether, we spent about three hours at the church in the evening.
Ralph, Don, and I had our usual two-hour meeting in the morning. In the evening, I went to the church for a Joint Session meeting, followed by an Elders meeting. Altogether, we spent about three hours at the church in the evening.
In baseball news: Manny Machado reached a major milestone tonight, recording his 2,000th career hit. He becomes just the fifth active player to reach that mark, joining Freddie Freeman, José Altuve, Andrew McCutchen, and Paul Goldschmidt. Machado also hit his 357th career home run, placing him fourth among active players—behind Giancarlo Stanton (430), Mike Trout (392), and Goldschmidt (370).
In baseball news: Manny Machado reached a major milestone tonight, recording his 2,000th career hit. He becomes just the fifth active player to reach that mark, joining Freddie Freeman, José Altuve, Andrew McCutchen, and Paul Goldschmidt. Machado also hit his 357th career home run, placing him fourth among active players—behind Giancarlo Stanton (430), Mike Trout (392), and Goldschmidt (370).
The Blue Jays continue to roll. They extended their winning streak to nine games—their longest since 2015—and now hold a 3½-game lead over the Yankees.
The Blue Jays continue to roll. They extended their winning streak to nine games—their longest since 2015—and now hold a 3½-game lead over the Yankees.
Sunday July 6, 2025
Sunday July 6, 2025
No surprise—Paul Skenes made the All-Star team again. That’s two for two in his first two seasons. We don’t know yet if Dave Roberts will name him the starting pitcher, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he does. Skenes has earned it.
No surprise—Paul Skenes made the All-Star team again. That’s two for two in his first two seasons. We don’t know yet if Dave Roberts will name him the starting pitcher, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he does. Skenes has earned it.
On a heartbreaking note, the news out of Texas is hard to take in. At least 80 people, including 28 children, have died in devastating flash floods that hit central Texas over the weekend. Ten girls and one counselor are still missing from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls. The Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes before sunrise on Friday. That kind of force is unimaginable. Homes, vehicles, lives—just swept away. It’s a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be.
On a heartbreaking note, the news out of Texas is hard to take in. At least 80 people, including 28 children, have died in devastating flash floods that hit central Texas over the weekend. Ten girls and one counselor are still missing from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls. The Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes before sunrise on Friday. That kind of force is unimaginable. Homes, vehicles, lives—just swept away. It’s a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be.
Saturday July 5, 2025
Saturday July 5, 2025
I picked up Lue at 4:30 p.m., and we went to Randy and Cindy Bell’s picnic. They had it catered by Mauthe’s, and the food was really good. We sat with Randy and Karen Neill, and I had an especially good conversation with Randy.
I picked up Lue at 4:30 p.m., and we went to Randy and Cindy Bell’s picnic. They had it catered by Mauthe’s, and the food was really good. We sat with Randy and Karen Neill, and I had an especially good conversation with Randy.
It's such a heartbreaking tragedy to think about all the lives lost in that flood in Texas. By the time I went to bed, the reported death toll had reached 51 people, including 15 children. Even more devastating—27 children were still missing.
It's such a heartbreaking tragedy to think about all the lives lost in that flood in Texas. By the time I went to bed, the reported death toll had reached 51 people, including 15 children. Even more devastating—27 children were still missing.
Friday July 4, 2025
Friday July 4, 2025
I loaded up the cooler and other picnic supplies and headed to Clear Creek, arriving a little after 10 a.m. The weather couldn’t have been better—perfect temperature, low humidity, and sunny skies all day.
I loaded up the cooler and other picnic supplies and headed to Clear Creek, arriving a little after 10 a.m. The weather couldn’t have been better—perfect temperature, low humidity, and sunny skies all day.
We had plenty of good food to enjoy, and I was reminded how much I truly like that park. Clear Creek was fairly busy in the morning, with several people fishing. By the afternoon, even more had gathered at the beach.
We had plenty of good food to enjoy, and I was reminded how much I truly like that park. Clear Creek was fairly busy in the morning, with several people fishing. By the afternoon, even more had gathered at the beach.
The kids in our group spent a lot of time fishing—and actually caught some trout! Brody had Danny, and then his dad, toss the football with him. Later, Missy, Lue, Jared, Danny, and Brody played bocce ball.
The kids in our group spent a lot of time fishing—and actually caught some trout! Brody had Danny, and then his dad, toss the football with him. Later, Missy, Lue, Jared, Danny, and Brody played bocce ball.
A cardinal kept showing up throughout the day, hopping onto our picnic table as if it wanted to join the fun—or maybe it was just after some food.
A cardinal kept showing up throughout the day, hopping onto our picnic table as if it wanted to join the fun—or maybe it was just after some food.
When Brody got home in the early evening, he had to pack for his trip. He was heading out with the Fergusons around 3 a.m. for a weeklong stay at Sandbridge Beach.
When Brody got home in the early evening, he had to pack for his trip. He was heading out with the Fergusons around 3 a.m. for a weeklong stay at Sandbridge Beach.
I truly enjoyed the day and got home around 6 p.m. There were 16 of us in all: Rick, Barb, Brad, Lauren, Bryce, Logan, Mack, Jared, Missy, Brody, Tari, Danny, Lue, Ron, Fran, and me.
I truly enjoyed the day and got home around 6 p.m. There were 16 of us in all: Rick, Barb, Brad, Lauren, Bryce, Logan, Mack, Jared, Missy, Brody, Tari, Danny, Lue, Ron, Fran, and me.
Thursday July 3, 2025
Thursday July 3, 2025
I stayed pretty busy today—at least by my standards. I started the day with a walk from 5 to 6 a.m., heading up through and behind the cemetery. Later in the morning, I got the trimming done and then mowed the lawn. After that, I worked on a few things for the church.
I stayed pretty busy today—at least by my standards. I started the day with a walk from 5 to 6 a.m., heading up through and behind the cemetery. Later in the morning, I got the trimming done and then mowed the lawn. After that, I worked on a few things for the church.
In the afternoon, I made a trip to the store to pick up everything I needed for the 4th. On the way back, I grabbed a wrap at the new Sheetz drive-thru. Before making the potato salad, I squeezed in a bit of house cleaning. After cooking and eating supper, I was tired enough to get to bed by 7:30 p.m.
In the afternoon, I made a trip to the store to pick up everything I needed for the 4th. On the way back, I grabbed a wrap at the new Sheetz drive-thru. Before making the potato salad, I squeezed in a bit of house cleaning. After cooking and eating supper, I was tired enough to get to bed by 7:30 p.m.
Missy mentioned that Hannah is camping for the next few days with her boyfriend's family at Tionesta.
Missy mentioned that Hannah is camping for the next few days with her boyfriend's family at Tionesta.
Wednesday July 2, 2025
Wednesday July 2, 2025
Today marked the midpoint of the year 2025. Since 2025 is not a leap year, it has 365 days. Half of that is 182.5 days, meaning the exact halfway point falls 182 days and 12 hours into the year. Because the year began at midnight on January 1 (12:00 AM EST), the halfway moment landed precisely at noon today in the Eastern Time Zone.
Today marked the midpoint of the year 2025. Since 2025 is not a leap year, it has 365 days. Half of that is 182.5 days, meaning the exact halfway point falls 182 days and 12 hours into the year. Because the year began at midnight on January 1 (12:00 AM EST), the halfway moment landed precisely at noon today in the Eastern Time Zone.
At the ballpark, the Pirates kept rolling. They picked up their sixth straight win today with a 5–0 shutout over the Cardinals. They won the first two games of the series by scores of 7–0 and 1–0. It marks the first time the Pirates have thrown three shutouts in a series since October 2–3, 1976—also against the Cardinals.
At the ballpark, the Pirates kept rolling. They picked up their sixth straight win today with a 5–0 shutout over the Cardinals. They won the first two games of the series by scores of 7–0 and 1–0. It marks the first time the Pirates have thrown three shutouts in a series since October 2–3, 1976—also against the Cardinals.
The Pirates swept all six games of this homestand, outscoring their opponents 43–4. That’s nothing short of amazing.
The Pirates swept all six games of this homestand, outscoring their opponents 43–4. That’s nothing short of amazing.
Tuesday July 1, 2025
Tuesday July 1, 2025
Today was the grand opening of the new Sheetz. I didn’t make it down for the ribbon cutting—though I probably should have. They were giving away some pretty impressive prizes, including a $2,500 gift card.
Today was the grand opening of the new Sheetz. I didn’t make it down for the ribbon cutting—though I probably should have. They were giving away some pretty impressive prizes, including a $2,500 gift card.
Meanwhile, the Pirates extended their winning streak to five games—their longest of the season—with a tight 1-0 victory. If you're guessing Paul Skenes got the start, you're right. He threw five shutout innings but didn’t factor into the decision.
Meanwhile, the Pirates extended their winning streak to five games—their longest of the season—with a tight 1-0 victory. If you're guessing Paul Skenes got the start, you're right. He threw five shutout innings but didn’t factor into the decision.
The game’s only run came in the eighth inning when catcher Henry Davis hit a sacrifice fly. Davis then sealed the win in the ninth with a crucial tag at the plate to preserve the lead.
The game’s only run came in the eighth inning when catcher Henry Davis hit a sacrifice fly. Davis then sealed the win in the ninth with a crucial tag at the plate to preserve the lead.
Monday June 30, 2025
Monday June 30, 2025
After getting over 6 inches of rain in May, we followed that up with nearly 10¾ inches more in June. Thankfully, the weather forecast for Clear Creek (Sigel) is looking great for Friday—sunny skies, temperatures in the mid to upper 70s, and comfortable humidity levels. I went ahead and reserved a shelter—the first one past the swimming area.
After getting over 6 inches of rain in May, we followed that up with nearly 10¾ inches more in June. Thankfully, the weather forecast for Clear Creek (Sigel) is looking great for Friday—sunny skies, temperatures in the mid to upper 70s, and comfortable humidity levels. I went ahead and reserved a shelter—the first one past the swimming area.
Meanwhile, the Pirates did something they’ve never done before: they won their fourth straight game by 7 or more runs. Of course, they’ve won four in a row before, but not like this—not since 1925. After a rough first two months of the season, the Pirates turned things around in June, finishing with a 14–13 record.
Meanwhile, the Pirates did something they’ve never done before: they won their fourth straight game by 7 or more runs. Of course, they’ve won four in a row before, but not like this—not since 1925. After a rough first two months of the season, the Pirates turned things around in June, finishing with a 14–13 record.
That 1925 team was led by legends like Kiki Cuyler, Max Carey, Pie Traynor, and Glenn Wright. The Bucs went on to win the World Series that year, beating the Senators in seven games.
That 1925 team was led by legends like Kiki Cuyler, Max Carey, Pie Traynor, and Glenn Wright. The Bucs went on to win the World Series that year, beating the Senators in seven games.
Sunday June 29, 2025
Sunday June 29, 2025
What’s Gotten Into the Pirates?
What’s Gotten Into the Pirates?
For at least one weekend, the Pirates looked like kings of the hill. The mighty Mets came to town, led by stars Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, and Juan Soto. Though the Mets hadn’t been playing well—losing 10 of their last 13—they were still expected to crush the lowly Pirates.
For at least one weekend, the Pirates looked like kings of the hill. The mighty Mets came to town, led by stars Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, and Juan Soto. Though the Mets hadn’t been playing well—losing 10 of their last 13—they were still expected to crush the lowly Pirates.
Instead, the Pirates swept the three-game series in dominant fashion, crushing the Mets by scores of 9–1, 9–2, and 12–1. They outscored New York 30–4 over the weekend.
Instead, the Pirates swept the three-game series in dominant fashion, crushing the Mets by scores of 9–1, 9–2, and 12–1. They outscored New York 30–4 over the weekend.
The Pirates are playing better—not great, but better—winning 16 of their last 30 games.
The Pirates are playing better—not great, but better—winning 16 of their last 30 games.
Saturday June 28, 2025
Saturday June 28, 2025
Lue and Danny went to the Pirates game today. Just before it began, the public address announcer informed the crowd that Dave Parker had passed away. Parker, who was elected into the Hall of Fame earlier this year, is scheduled to be inducted next month in Cooperstown.
Lue and Danny went to the Pirates game today. Just before it began, the public address announcer informed the crowd that Dave Parker had passed away. Parker, who was elected into the Hall of Fame earlier this year, is scheduled to be inducted next month in Cooperstown.
Earlier in the day, Missy called with the sad news that Lynn Hepfl had suffered a heart attack and did not survive.
Earlier in the day, Missy called with the sad news that Lynn Hepfl had suffered a heart attack and did not survive.
Friday June 27, 2025
Friday June 27, 2025
We've certainly had our share of heavy downpours this summer. Today brought another burst—an inch of rain fell in just 20 minutes, between 5:40 and 6:00 p.m. That brings our total to just under 9 inches for the month—twice the average rainfall for June.
We've certainly had our share of heavy downpours this summer. Today brought another burst—an inch of rain fell in just 20 minutes, between 5:40 and 6:00 p.m. That brings our total to just under 9 inches for the month—twice the average rainfall for June.
Looking ahead to the 4th of July, the forecast is promising. If it holds, we can expect a beautiful day with low humidity and plenty of sunshine.
Looking ahead to the 4th of July, the forecast is promising. If it holds, we can expect a beautiful day with low humidity and plenty of sunshine.
Thursday June 26, 2025
Thursday June 26, 2025
POGO arrived around 2 p.m. and spent about an hour installing the new refrigerator and hauling away the old one. Now, I’ll need to wait approximately 24 hours before it’s safe to start putting food inside.
POGO arrived around 2 p.m. and spent about an hour installing the new refrigerator and hauling away the old one. Now, I’ll need to wait approximately 24 hours before it’s safe to start putting food inside.
Wednesday June 25, 2025
Wednesday June 25, 2025
The 2025 NBA Draft kicked off tonight with plenty of excitement. It all started with Cooper Flagg going No. 1 overall to the Dallas Mavericks—he's one of three Duke players taken in the first round. Things wrapped up with the LA Clippers selecting Swiss center Yanic Konan Niederhauser at No. 30.
The 2025 NBA Draft kicked off tonight with plenty of excitement. It all started with Cooper Flagg going No. 1 overall to the Dallas Mavericks—he's one of three Duke players taken in the first round. Things wrapped up with the LA Clippers selecting Swiss center Yanic Konan Niederhauser at No. 30.
There were a couple of surprises along the way: the Utah Jazz took Rutgers guard Ace Bailey with the No. 5 pick, and the Phoenix Suns managed to land Duke’s top-ranked center, Khaman Maluach, at No. 10.
There were a couple of surprises along the way: the Utah Jazz took Rutgers guard Ace Bailey with the No. 5 pick, and the Phoenix Suns managed to land Duke’s top-ranked center, Khaman Maluach, at No. 10.
Tuesday June 24, 2025
Tuesday June 24, 2025
Our high of 95.2° today broke the all-time record for June 24. The previous record was 93° in 1993.
Our high of 95.2° today broke the all-time record for June 24. The previous record was 93° in 1993.
When I went down to the Y at 5:30 a.m., I noticed a sign out front of the newly constructed Sheetz that read, “Open in 8 Days.” But just an hour and a half later, on my way home, the sign had been updated to say, “Open in 7 Days.” According to Explore Clarion, the grand opening is set for Tuesday, July 1, with a ceremony scheduled from 10 to 11 a.m.
When I went down to the Y at 5:30 a.m., I noticed a sign out front of the newly constructed Sheetz that read, “Open in 8 Days.” But just an hour and a half later, on my way home, the sign had been updated to say, “Open in 7 Days.” According to Explore Clarion, the grand opening is set for Tuesday, July 1, with a ceremony scheduled from 10 to 11 a.m.
Monday, June 23, 2025
Monday, June 23, 2025
Sometime after I got back from my 5:30 a.m. walk, I heard a terrible noise. At first, I thought it was the new window air conditioner, but then I realized it was coming from the kitchen—it was the refrigerator. I’ve heard this sound before, and I’m pretty sure it’s the evaporator fan motor acting up again.
Sometime after I got back from my 5:30 a.m. walk, I heard a terrible noise. At first, I thought it was the new window air conditioner, but then I realized it was coming from the kitchen—it was the refrigerator. I’ve heard this sound before, and I’m pretty sure it’s the evaporator fan motor acting up again.
I unplugged it for about an hour. When I plugged it back in, the noise was still there. But later in the morning, it quieted down and has worked fine ever since. Still, the fridge is 17 years old, and even AI says it’s past its expected lifespan. I’m not putting another dime into it, so I went over to POGO’s and ordered a new one. It should be here Thursday.
I unplugged it for about an hour. When I plugged it back in, the noise was still there. But later in the morning, it quieted down and has worked fine ever since. Still, the fridge is 17 years old, and even AI says it’s past its expected lifespan. I’m not putting another dime into it, so I went over to POGO’s and ordered a new one. It should be here Thursday.
Another scorcher in the heat dome. Today was the hottest day in Clarion since July 22, 2011. We hit 94.8°—back in 2011, we topped out at 99°.
Another scorcher in the heat dome. Today was the hottest day in Clarion since July 22, 2011. We hit 94.8°—back in 2011, we topped out at 99°.
Forget Judge and Ohtani for a minute—let’s talk Cal Raleigh. He was just named American League Player of the Week after hitting .417 with 5 homers and 12 RBIs over six games. Today’s home run—his 32nd—leads the majors and marks his fourth straight game going deep.
Forget Judge and Ohtani for a minute—let’s talk Cal Raleigh. He was just named American League Player of the Week after hitting .417 with 5 homers and 12 RBIs over six games. Today’s home run—his 32nd—leads the majors and marks his fourth straight game going deep.
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Sunday, June 22, 2025
The heat is on. Today was the warmest day we've had since exactly one year ago. On June 22, 2024, the average hourly temperature hit 79.2°. Today came close, averaging 78.7°. The high reached 92° here in Clarion — the first of what's expected to be four very hot days.
The heat is on. Today was the warmest day we've had since exactly one year ago. On June 22, 2024, the average hourly temperature hit 79.2°. Today came close, averaging 78.7°. The high reached 92° here in Clarion — the first of what's expected to be four very hot days.
Saturday June 21, 2025
Saturday June 21, 2025
Rick and I went to Mauthe’s for lunch today. On the way, I ran through McDonald’s and grabbed some nuggets for Bucco and Izzy, then we dropped them off at the house. Garrett Goheen and his family were already there swimming and said they'd be around all afternoon, so I didn’t need to go back. Therefore, my week with Bucco and Izzy came to an end.
Rick and I went to Mauthe’s for lunch today. On the way, I ran through McDonald’s and grabbed some nuggets for Bucco and Izzy, then we dropped them off at the house. Garrett Goheen and his family were already there swimming and said they'd be around all afternoon, so I didn’t need to go back. Therefore, my week with Bucco and Izzy came to an end.
The Beggs ended up getting an earlier flight out of Chicago, so they probably got home a little ahead of schedule, nonetheless, it would have been late.
The Beggs ended up getting an earlier flight out of Chicago, so they probably got home a little ahead of schedule, nonetheless, it would have been late.
Cal Raleigh’s still on a tear. Even after catching in that 94-degree heat for over three hours on Saturday, he blasted his 30th homer in the ninth inning of their 10–7 loss to the Cubs. That one pushed him past Mickey Mantle, José Ramírez, and Lance Berkman for the most homers by a switch-hitter before the All-Star break. He also passed Johnny Bench for the most by a primary catcher. Not bad for a hot afternoon.
Cal Raleigh’s still on a tear. Even after catching in that 94-degree heat for over three hours on Saturday, he blasted his 30th homer in the ninth inning of their 10–7 loss to the Cubs. That one pushed him past Mickey Mantle, José Ramírez, and Lance Berkman for the most homers by a switch-hitter before the All-Star break. He also passed Johnny Bench for the most by a primary catcher. Not bad for a hot afternoon.
Friday June 20, 2025
Friday June 20, 2025
Today is the longest day of the year. In Clarion, the sun rose at 5:44 a.m. and set at 8:53 p.m., giving us 15 hours, 9 minutes, and 2 seconds of sunlight—with a total of 16 hours and 16 minutes of daylight.
Today is the longest day of the year. In Clarion, the sun rose at 5:44 a.m. and set at 8:53 p.m., giving us 15 hours, 9 minutes, and 2 seconds of sunlight—with a total of 16 hours and 16 minutes of daylight.
It’s also the final full day for the Beggs in Turks and Caicos. They’re scheduled to fly home on Saturday.
It’s also the final full day for the Beggs in Turks and Caicos. They’re scheduled to fly home on Saturday.
Frank and Lue’s cruise wrapped up today. I assume they made it home sometime this afternoon.
Frank and Lue’s cruise wrapped up today. I assume they made it home sometime this afternoon.
Rick is in town for the weekend for his college reunion. He’s spending the night here.
Rick is in town for the weekend for his college reunion. He’s spending the night here.
Thursday June 19, 2025
Thursday June 19, 2025
I ordered a new window air conditioner for the guest bedroom, and it arrived today—a few days earlier than expected. Mark came over to help me install it, which I really appreciated since I didn’t want to risk dropping it while lifting it into the window. I’m especially glad it showed up early because we’re under an extreme heat watch from Sunday morning through Wednesday evening.
I ordered a new window air conditioner for the guest bedroom, and it arrived today—a few days earlier than expected. Mark came over to help me install it, which I really appreciated since I didn’t want to risk dropping it while lifting it into the window. I’m especially glad it showed up early because we’re under an extreme heat watch from Sunday morning through Wednesday evening.
Wednesday June 18, 2025
Wednesday June 18, 2025
Did We Get a Break from the Rain?
Did We Get a Break from the Rain?
Nope! In fact, we picked up around ⅞ of an inch more rain today. Water was running everywhere, and some towns saw several inches covering their streets. Another ¼ inch is expected on Thursday, but after that, the faucets should finally shut off—at least until next Wednesday.
Nope! In fact, we picked up around ⅞ of an inch more rain today. Water was running everywhere, and some towns saw several inches covering their streets. Another ¼ inch is expected on Thursday, but after that, the faucets should finally shut off—at least until next Wednesday.
Meanwhile, forecasters continue to warn of a developing heat dome. From Sunday through Wednesday, Clarion is in for very hot and muggy conditions, with real-feel temperatures nearing 100°°.
Meanwhile, forecasters continue to warn of a developing heat dome. From Sunday through Wednesday, Clarion is in for very hot and muggy conditions, with real-feel temperatures nearing 100°°.
I can’t believe David and Janna have been married for 20 years! Today was their anniversary. I called David just as they were heading out to dinner to celebrate.
I can’t believe David and Janna have been married for 20 years! Today was their anniversary. I called David just as they were heading out to dinner to celebrate.
Tuesday June 17, 2025
Tuesday June 17, 2025
We got another ¾ inch of rain today. After receiving about 6½ inches in May, we're on track to easily surpass 8 inches this month. Another ½ inch is expected in the next day or two, but after that, we should get a break with five straight dry days. Not only will it be dry this weekend, but temperatures will also be climbing—Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are all expected to hit 90° or higher. Humidity will be uncomfortable on Saturday and downright brutal for the following three days.
We got another ¾ inch of rain today. After receiving about 6½ inches in May, we're on track to easily surpass 8 inches this month. Another ½ inch is expected in the next day or two, but after that, we should get a break with five straight dry days. Not only will it be dry this weekend, but temperatures will also be climbing—Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are all expected to hit 90° or higher. Humidity will be uncomfortable on Saturday and downright brutal for the following three days.
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