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December 12, 2012
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TIDBITS® HEARS THE BELLS TOLL BELLS by Patricia L. Cook This Tidbits will ring some bells of history! Bells have been around for many centuries, including references in the Bible. Long before telephone
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ringers, ambulance sirens, internet, emails and “tweets,” bells summoned the masses for news, happy and sad. • Bells are rung at many major life events and occasions, including weddings and funerals in some religions. In earlier centuries bells were also rung to make announcements at community
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squares. Many churches ring bells at Christmas to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. • A famous old poem written on December 25,
Santa Fe
1864 by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow became one of our best loved Christmas Carols. “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day,” was actually a poem that Wadsworth wrote concerning the sadness
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set to music by John Baptiste Calkin in 1872. The words, “Peace on earth, good will toward men,” included in the song, come from Luke 2:14 in the Bible. • Ringing of bells and other noisemakers may have originated with pagans, people who have “little or no religion.” They used the bells to scare
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away evil spirits. turn the page for more!
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Tidbits® of Salina BELLS AND WHISTLES (continued): • Traditionally in Anglican and Catholic churches, the church day starts at sunset. So, for many churches the first service of Christmas Day will have bells ringing. These signify the start of Christmas services in many areas. In the United Kingdom (U.K.) it is traditional for the largest bell to be rung four times in the hour prior to midnight; then at midnight all of the bells ring to celebrate Christmas.
Many old churches in the U.K. and
other European countries have historic bells that have been ringing for centuries. • One of those old churches, St. Lawrence Church in Ipswich, Suffolk, England, has what is thought to be the oldest set of bells in the world. Dating from about 1450, the set of five bells had not been used for two decades because of the poor condition
1. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What is a philographist? 2. TELEVISION: Which actor played the character of "Fonzie" on "Happy Days"? 3. LITERATURE: Who wrote the children's book "Matilda"? 4. GEOGRAPHY: What tiny principality lies between Spain and France? 5. MYTHOLOGY: In Greek mythology, what was the Hydra? 6. FOOD & DRINK: What is muesli? 7. ART: Where is the Uffizi museum? 8. MEASUREMENTS: What does a kelvin measure? 9. MOVIES: What spell is used to disarm opponents in the "Harry Potter" movies? 10. ANATOMY: Where is the latissimus dorsi muscle located on the human body?
of the tower that housed them. They were in a tower that was built in 1883, that was very flimsy. In a restoration project funded by donations to the Ipswich Historic Churches Trust, the bells were moved to an older, sturdier part of the building that was built in the 15th century. In September, 2009, the bells rang again, much to the delight of the town. Now when the bells are rung, they are in a part of the church where they can be seen through a glass screen. The building is no longer a church but is part of the Ipswich Town Centre. • In the Ipswich project, the bells were cleaned at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in East London. Whitechapel is Britain’s oldest manufacturing company, established during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in 1570. In 1970 the Foundry celebrated 400 years, a quatercentenary! (It is now in its 442nd year.) • Famous bells from Whitechapel include the Liberty Bell, the Great Bell of Montreal and the largest bell it has ever cast, Big Ben. • Big Ben at Westminster Abbey deserves its name; weighing 13½ tons (????). It was cast (or made) in 1858. While most of the work of the company is with large bells, including all of the equipment needed and installation in church towers, Whitechapel also makes handbells and other small bells. • While bell ringing, called “change ringing,” is
PHOTO: Mark Deklin Q: Ever since “GCB” was canceled, I’ve scoured the networks to find some of my favorite actors on other series. I haven’t seen Mark Deklin on anything recently, so I wondered if you could tell me what he is up to. Ñ- Gigi W., via email A: Mark recently filmed a guest spot on “Castle” (it is episode 10, which is set to air in early January), where he plays a man whose girlfriend is found dead. Later in 2013 (an exact date has not been set yet), you can see Mark on the big screen in a live-action version of “Tarzan.” Mark told me about the film and his character, John Greystoke: “It’s not the Victorian ‘Tarzan’ that we all grew up with. It’s a modern take
on it. My character is almost like a Richard Branson type -- a wealthy but well-intentioned adventurer and entrepreneur. He discovers there’s a serious energy source -- a sort of meteorite, which crashed in Africa -- and he wants to find it. “He brings his family with him, which of course is a stupid decision, but I suppose in the moment it doesn’t seem stupid because he doesn’t go thinking he’s going to die. He ends up unleashing a mystical force that he never could have anticipated, and everything goes south.” *** Q: I just rented “The Queen of Versailles” and was mesmerized by the story of David Siegel, his wife, Jackie, his family, and his struggle to save his time-share/real-estate business. Do you have any updates on how he is doing now? -- George F., Naples, Fla. A: David recently made national news when he sent a memo to his employees encouraging them to vote for Mitt Romney in the recent presidential elections. But, politics aside, David was quoted in a Reuters interview this past summer: “We’re the most profitable we’ve ever been.” He also is continuing work on his family’s new home, which is modeled on the Palace of Versailles in France. In fact, just before the movie’s premiere, David filed a defamation suit over the film’s portrayal of his business as failing, asserting that some of the film’s scenes were staged or exaggerated. *** Q: When will “Merlin” return to Syfy? -- Felix S., via e-mail A: Season five of the popular fantasy series, which premieres Friday, Jan. 4, at 10 p.m. ET on Syfy, will be the final season of the show. Executive producers (Johnny Capps and Julian Murphy) promise fans that “Merlin” is “leading to a spectacular finale that draws on the bestknown elements of this much-loved story, and brings to a conclusion the battle for Camelot.” *** Q: Will there be an “Avengers” sequel? -- Paul G., Tulsa, Okla. A: After “The Avengers” smashed all sorts of box-office records this summer, you can bet there will be a sequel. “The Avengers 2” is set to premiere May 1, 2015, with the original cast, as well as some new faces. Write to Cindy at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475; or e-mail her at letters@cindyelavsky.com. (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
Christmas Butter Cookies 1 cup (2 sticks) butter (no substitutions), softened 1/2 cup sugar 1 large egg 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Assorted colored granulated sugars for decorating Ornamental frosting, optional 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, with mixer at low speed, beat butter and sugar until blended. Increase speed to high, beat until light and creamy. At low speed, beat in egg and vanilla. Beat in flour and baking powder just until blended. 2. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Wrap each piece with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm enough to roll, about 1 hour. 3. On lightly floured surface, with floured rolling pin, roll 1 piece of dough 1/8 inch thick. With floured 2- to 3-inch assorted cookie cutters, cut dough into as many cookies as possible, wrap and refrigerate trimmings. Place cookies, 1 inch apart, on large ungreased cookie sheet, sprinkle cookies with colored sugar now if you like, or frost after baking. 4. Bake cookies 10 to 12 minutes, until lightly browned. Transfer cookies to wire rack to cool. Repeat with remaining dough and trimmings. 5. When cookies are cool, use frosting to decorate cookies as desired. Sprinkle colored sugars as desired on frosting before it dries. Allow frosting to dry completely, about 1 hour. Store cookies in tightly covered container up to 2 weeks. Yields 96 cookies. Each serving (1 cookie with frosting or decoration): About 40 calories, 2g total fat (1g saturated), 7mg cholesterol, 20mg sodium, 5g total carbs, 0g dietary fiber, 1g protein. For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our website at www.goodhousekeeping. com/recipefinder/.
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For Advertising Call (785) 404-1000 WHISTLES (continued): most popular in England where it started centuries ago, there are bell ringers all over the world. Most English church bell towers have at least six to eight, but sometimes as many as sixteen bells in a the bell chamber or belfry. There are more than 5000 churches with bells for change ringing in their bell towers in England, while there are fewer than 300 in the rest of the world. • Change ringing is a performing art, similar to a team sport, in that the team must work together in harmony to ring the bells. It is similar to being a part of an orchestra. Each ringer must learn to do his or her part. There are many change ringing organizations in England. The oldest association is the “Companie of Ringers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lincoln” which was started in 1612. • The first true “peal” was believed to have occurred on May 2, 1715 at St. Peter Mancroft Church in Norwich, England. A peal is “a true touch of at
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least 5000 changes.” This magical ringing typically takes around three hours to ring! •
A strange ban that occurred during World War
II was the ringing of bells. Ringing was quickly reinstated when peace returned. • On January 1, 2000, in celebration of the start of the new millennium, bells were rung all over the world. • There has been change ringing in North America since 1744 with groups of ringers active in Quebec, British Columbia, South Carolina, Illinois and
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more at various times. By the middle of the 20th century, change ringing in bell towers had almost completely died out on the continent. Change
By Samantha Mazzotta
ringing was occurring some with handbells but the history is slim on that. In the early 1960s there were only seven active bell towers in North America: four in Canada and three in the U.S. • The installation of change ringing bells at the new National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. in 1963 stoked the energy for new ringers in North America. Today The North American Change Ringers Guild, officially chartered in 1972, has more than 560 members with about 50 active bell towers in North America. • The London-based “Ancient Society of College Youths” is one of the oldest ringing societies, started in 1637. They have members all over the world.
“Ghosts of Manhattan” By Douglas Brunt (Simon & Schuster, $24) Reviewed by Rose McAllister Croke “Ghosts of Manhattan” marks the auspicious fiction debut of Douglas Brunt, an author who readily falls into the “one to watch” category. The book’s protagonist, Nick Farmer, is a married 35-year-old bond trader at the now-defunct Bear Stearns. Set in 2005 against the rich -- both literal and figurative -- backdrop of Wall Street before the economic debacle of 2008, Nick is at a crossroads, both professionally and personally. He has grown increasingly disenchanted with the lucrative profession that nets him a seven-figure salary, and his high-priced lifestyle of excess and extravagant entertaining has caused a sizable rift in his marriage. When a nerdy analyst approaches him with apocalyptic research that indicates Bear Stearns’ high-flying mortgage-backed securities trading is essentially unsustainable, Nick is faced with an ethical dilemma -- the kind he has spent a lifetime avoiding. “Ghosts of Manhattan” is an eloquent story about the choices we make with our lives. From Nick’s relationships with his wife and those with whom he works to the golden handcuffs that keep him chained to his unfulfilling career, Nick struggles to find a way out of the unhappy situation in which he finds himself ... before it’s too late. “Ghosts of Manhattan” pulls back the curtain on Wall Street in the days before the financial collapse and gives an insider’s look at how it all came tumbling down. The novel is a riveting account of one man’s journey to save his marriage and essentially his soul, and how he struggles to act with common decency in spite of all the moral bankruptcy that surrounds him.
Essential Gifts for Do-It-Yourselfers It’s that time of year again, when you’ve got to think of gifts for friends and family that will be appreciated. Luckily, it’s easy to pick out gifts for the do-it-yourselfers. Most DIYers will outright tell you what they need, or you can casually survey their workspace to see what is not there. If you’re a DIYer who really wants something, here are a few things you can drop a hint about: --Power tools: The key word with handheld power tools is “rechargeable.” While corded power tools provide a consistent flow of electricity and reliable power, cordless drills are DIYers’ go-to standard because they can simply pull them off the charger and use them anywhere, no need to look for an outlet or extension cord. Prices: $40 to $249
PHOTO: Matt Bomer HOLLYWOOD -- Matt Damon, like George Clooney, has major causes. He’s an environmentalist and philanthropist, as well as one of the founders of the Not On Our Watch project, which aims to bring attention to stopping mass atrocities. He’s also one of the founders of Water.org, which provides clean water to Africa, and strives to fight AIDS and poverty in the Third World. Now he will narrate an eight-part documentary series on Showtime being developed by James Cameron and Jerry Weintraub. It will focus on the effects we humans have had on climate change. It’s about time someone woke up! *** “Modern Family’s” Ty Burrell is headed to the big screen in three major films. He’ll join “Saturday Night Live” players Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, plus Luke Wilson, in “The Skeleton Twins,” about estranged twins (Wiig and Hader) who unite to talk about issues after they cheat death. Burrell plays Hader’s former
--Portability: Most DIYers have more than one toolbox and, as their tool collection grows, they’re always on the lookout for one that meets their carry-around needs. Consider tucking a spare tool belt and some basic staples like a tape measure and screwdriver set into a durable toolbox. Prices: $8 to $90 --Spares: While it’s impossible to have an extra of everything, extra screws, nuts, bolts, nails and other hardware are essential to have around. Look for combination kits like picture hanger assortments, specialty nail and screw sizes, and cabinet and drawer hardware like handles and hinges for emergency repairs. --Cleanup: A wet/dry vacuum is an important and versatile part of any workshop. If your DIYer doesn’t have one of these yet, there are affordable models available. Prices: $49 to $400 HOME TIP: “I never ask my husband directly what tools or items he wants for Christmas. Instead, I ask him about the project he’s working on. There’s always some tool or part he’s missing; I just note it down and buy it for him.” -- Tara L., Richmond, Va. My new e-book, “101 Best Home Tips,” is available to download on Amazon Kindle! Pick it up or gift it today for just 99 cents! Send your questions or comments to ask@thisisahammer.com. (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
teacher who becomes his lover. Next, he’s a butter carver in “Butter” with Jennifer Garner, Olivia Wilde, Alicia Silverstone and Hugh Jackman. Ty also will be the voice of Mr. Peabody in the animated “Mr. Peabody & Sherman,” with Stephen Colbert and Allison Janney. Nine-year-old Max Charles, the young Peter Parker in “The Amazing Spiderman,” will voice Sherman. *** Speaking of “Modern Family,” “White Collar” star Matt Bomer is the real thing. He and his partner, publicist Simon Halls, have three children: Kit, Henry and Walker Bomer. Matt and Simon recently received the “Inspiration Award” from The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network. It was presented to them by Matt’s “Magic Mike” co-star Joe Manganiello (they were together in college at Carnegie Melon University in Pittsburgh). Manganiello said, “You are the example that the rest of our country needs to wake up to and see in terms of equality and putting an end to the bullying epidemic and making sure that every family is respected in our schools and our society.” Going public with his real life hasn’t hurt Bomer’s “reel” life. He’s got the film “Space Station 76,” which is being called a sci-fi comedy, with Liv Tyler, Patrick Wilson and Jerry O’Connell, and then “Winter’s Tale” with Will Smith, Colin Farrell, Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, William Hurt and Eva Marie Saint. (In case you don’t know Eva Marie Saint, she won an Oscar for playing opposite Marlon Brando in “On the Waterfront.”) Bomer explains why he went public with his relationship, “When you aren’t allowed to speak about who you love or who you’re attracted to, it makes you feel invisible.” On the plus side ... he never has to worry about getting lipstick on his “White Collar.” Send letters to Tony Rizzo’s Hollywood, 8306 Wilshire Blvd., No. 362, Beverly Hills, CA 90211.
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6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Canada with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow three to four weeks for delivery. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I have a question about diabetes. My husband has it. He saw a doctor on a television program who said that taking 2 teaspoons of red vinegar at lunch and dinner lowers your blood sugar a lot. Do you think this is true? Should sweetener be added, or water? -- N.F. ANSWER: I believe you’re referring to the work of Carol Johnston, Ph.D., a professor in the nutrition department of Arizona State University. She showed that taking 2 tablespoons of vinegar before or during a meal lowers the sudden spike in blood sugar that happens with eating. Such spikes are not good if they are very high and occur often. They disturb blood sugar control. This isn’t a cure for diabetes. It might be a help for sugar control. Your husband should not stop using his diabetes medicines or abandon his diabetic diet. I don’t know why the TV doctor insisted on red vinegar. Dr. Johnston didn’t. You can take the vinegar along with olive oil as a salad dressing. You can dilute it in water if you want. You can add an artificial sweetener to it if the sweetener doesn’t say not to. And you can start with the TV doctor’s recommendation of 2 teaspoons instead of 2 tablespoons. See if the 2 teaspoons work. If it doesn’t, increase the dose until you reach the 2 tablespoons. Are you sure your husband tolerates vinegar? I guess there’s only one way to find out. *** Dr. Donohue regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but he will incorporate them in his column whenever possible. Readers may write him or request an order form of available health newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475.
SALINA SENIOR CENTER LUNCH MENU * Lunches served on Weekdays from 11:15 am to 1 p.m. * All ages welcome * For information or Carry-Out Meals, call the Senior Center
Wednesday, December 12 Bierock, Augratin Potatoes, Peaches, Cream of Asparagus Thursday, December 13 Sloppy Joe, Roasted Red Potatoes, Cheesy Cauliflower, Ice Cream, Bun, Wheat Bread Friday, December 14 Christmas Lunch, Baked Ham, Sweet Potatoe Casserole, Green Bean Casserole, Cranberry Sauce, Pumpkin Bar, Dinner Role Monday, December 17 Crystal Creek Band, Chili, Corn, Mandarin Oranges, Cinnamon Roll, Chicken & Wild Rice Tuesday, December 18 Liver & Onions or Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Peas, Fruit Cocktail, Wheat Bread
.
Cancer Vaccine for Young Girls DEAR DR. DONOHUE: Please advise about the Gardasil vaccine. My granddaughter just turned 18 (to date, no sexual activity -- really) and begins college next year. Her doctor is pushing the vaccine for her and for her just-turned-14 sister. I value your common-sense approach to medical issues. What do you recommend? -- S.B. ANSWER: Without any hesitation, I recommend wholeheartedly the vaccine for protection against the human papillomavirus. It’s the virus that causes cervical cancer. Gardasil protects against the most common strains of cancer-causing papillomavirus, strains 16 and 18. This vaccine is a medical breakthrough. Never has there been a vaccine for protection from any cancer. Your granddaughters are not too young. The recommendation suggests that the vaccine be given when a girl is 11 or 12, but it can still be given up to age 26. For best effectiveness, it should be given before a girl has had any sexual encounters. The human papillomavirus is extremely widespread, and exposure to the virus before the vaccine has been given lessens the vaccine’s ability to protect against the virus and the cancer it causes. A second papillomavirus vaccine is also on the market. It’s called Cervarix. The booklet on cervical cancer and Pap smears discusses these topics in greater detail. It does not discuss the vaccines. Readers can obtain a copy by writing: Dr. Donohue -- No. 1102W, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-
Collecting by Larry Cox is brought to you by WHISTLES (continued):
Forgotten Forgotten Treasures Treasures
• While bell-ringing is an old and refined form of
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California Faience Bowl
Zonophone Q: I recently received a CaliforniaDiscs Faience bowl from a relative who told me it was from the 1920s. I can't find anything about the company any of my Q: My great-granddad was from Italy and a in great opera lover. When reference books. Can you help me? -- Laura, Earth he immigrated to the United States, he brought along about three City, Mo. dozen recordings, including two Zonophone discs by Enrico Caruso. A: California Faience was a brand that was started in I read 1920 in one of recent columns that Caruso’s American Victor about byyour William V. Bragdon and Chauncy R. Real Sealatrecordings areshop fairly common and notCalif. worth Pieces that much. Thomas their tile in Berkeley, of Whatpottery about theare Zonophones? -- Amarked Reader in"California Kissimmee, Fla. their generally A: You arewith correct aboutstamp the Caruso Most sell in the $5 to Faience" a die andRed areSeals. quite collectible. Typical prices areon ashtray stylized dog design in $25 range, pending rarity andwith condition. orange $225; and burgundy gloss $250. Caruso,matt, probably the most legendary classical tenorbowl, who ever lived, *** was born in Naples in 1873. He made his operatic debut in 1894 and Q:after I have a set of and Elmer coffee cups that establishing hisElsie singing chops in Europe, arrived in the United were given away the Borden States in 1902 whereas hepremiums began a long by association with the New York Company. They are mint. -- Milton, Albuquerque, Metropolitan Opera. His first major recording in the U.S. was “Vesti La N.M. from introduced “I Pagliacci,” cutduring in 1904 at the1930s Victor studios. It charted A:Glubba” Elsie was the as a mascot asthe the best-selling recording in the that May. for Borden Company. In country 1940 she "married" Carusowho madebegan only a few Zonophone recordings. they are Elmer, promoting Borden'sSince glue. scarce, they also had are expensive. in the $5,000 to Together they Beulah.Several Elmerhave andsold Elsie appeared range. Someone whoincluding, might be able advise you is Richard on$10,000 dozens of products, oftocourse, your coffee suspect your set of four are Gesner,cups. ownerI of “The Music Connection,” one of theworth premierin record the $12into $20 range. shops New England. You can contact him at 1711 South Willow St., *** Manchester, NH 03103. Q:*** I have a set of cuff links that originally belonged to a riverboat captain who worked on the Ohio and Q: We purchased an Atari Super Pong system when it was introduced Mississippi Rivers. The set is in a leather case stamped a number of years ago. It is still in its original box and has four "Currier & Ives by Squire" and are quite elaborate. Do games, instructions and AC adapter. The model NO-C-140. you have any idea ofanwhat they might beisworth? -- How much do you think it isBeach, worth? --Fla. Shirley, Sun City West, Ariz. Michael, Ormond I checkedKlompus several used shops andcollector. monitored the A:A:Eugene is electronic an expert and Hisaction on eBay,information and think your Atari setup would sell inVernon the $50 to $75 NJ contact is P.O. Box 5970, Hills, range. genek@justcufflinks.com; and 60061; www.justcufflinks.com. *** *** Q: I have a “bobbing head” doll that I would like to know more about. Q:ItIwas have a pocket watch that "I.W. Co., to an made by Kanmar in Japan andisis marked of a black boy attached Springfield, The -watch quiteOkla. heavy and orange, whichILL." is a bank. Marilyn,isStigler, requires a key to engage the spring. What can you A: I could not find your doll referenced in “Bobbing Head Dolls 1960tell me about it? -- Dean, Brutus, Mich. 2000” by Tim Hunterm which spotlights more than 700 dolls with A: The Illinois Watch Company was founded in 1872 inprices. Springfield, Ill. In 1928, the company was purchased by the Hamilton Watch Company of Write to Larry Cox care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box Lancaster, Pa. Toindetermine the value of your 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, to questionsfortimepiece, you should showoritsend to ae-mail competent jeweler. cox@aol.com. Due to the large volume of mail he receives, Mr. Cox is unable to personally answer all reader questions. Do not send any
Write to Larry Cox in care materials requiring return mail. of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send e-mail questionsforcox@aol.com. Due to the (c) 2012 King to Features Synd., Inc. large volume of mail he receives, Mr. Cox is unable to personally answer all reader questions. Do not send any materials requiring return mail. Questions of general interest will be incorporated into his column whenever possible. (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
music, it is also popular in Christmas stories and songs that have nothing to do with classic bell tower
Wednesday, December 12 RSVP Sewing Ladies: 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Salina Senior Center Open Computer Lab: 9 a.m.-4p.m., Salina Senior Center. Senior Fitness Class with instructor Marian Frank: 10 a.m., Salina Senior Center fitness room. $8/month for three class sessions per week. Free blood pressure check provided by Pinnacle Park Nursing and Rehabilitation: 11-11:30 a.m., Salina Senior Center. Computer “Guided Learning Session” provided by Maurice Kerr of The Computer Helper: 11a.m.–1p.m., Salina Senior Center Computer Lab. Texas Hold ’em: 1 p.m., Salina Senior Center dining room. Thursday, December 13 Open Computer Lab: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Salina Senior Center. Bingo: 9:30 a.m., Salina Senior Center. Writing class: 10 a.m., Salina Senior Center. Strong People Exercise Class with instructor Leah Robinson, 10:30–11:15 a.m., Salina Senior Center. This class will meet through December 13, and is for beginners as well as seasoned exercisers. Sign up through Central Kansas Extension District Office at 309-5850, $10 per person, weights are provided. Computer “Guided Learning Session” provided by Maurice Kerr of The Computer Helper: 11a.m. –1p.m., Salina Senior Center Computer Lab. Card Game: “Hand and Foot,” 1 p.m., Senior Center dining room. Bunko: 1 p.m., Salina Senior Center. Salina Twirlers Square Dance Club, dance lessons, 7-10 p.m., $4 a person each time, contact Jim or Sue Dellere, phone number 825-0702 for more information. Friday, December 14 Open Computer Lab: 9 a.m.-4p.m., Salina Senior Center. Free Fun Bingo: 9:30 a.m. in the Salina Senior Center, sponsored by Sterling Houses of Salina. Senior Fitness Class with instructor Marian Frank: 10 a.m., Salina Senior Center fitness room. $8/month for three class sessions per week. Computer “Guided Learning Session” provided by Maurice Kerr of The Computer Helper: 11a.m.–1p.m., Salina Senior Center Computer Lab.. Cards: Pitch, Pinochle and Joker Board (marbles), 1 p.m., Salina Senior Center dining room. Monday, December 17 Open Computer Lab: 9 a.m.-4p.m., Salina Senior Center. Senior Fitness Class with instructor Marian Frank: 10 a.m., Salina Senior Center fitness room. $8/month for three class sessions per week. Music: Crystal Creek Band, 10:15 a.m., Salina Senior Center. Refreshments will be furnished by Sterling Houses of NOW OPEN Salina. Singing: Sing with the RSVP Mixed Chorus, 10:30 a.m. in the Senior Center. Computer “Guided Learning Session” provided by Maurice Kerr of The Computer Helper: 11 a.m.–1p.m., Salina Senior Center Computer Lab. Beginners Pinochle: 1 & and Bakery p.m., Salina Senior Center.Deli Come learn play. 157 N. 7th, Salina, KS Tuesday, December 18 Open Computer Lab: 9 a.m.-4p.m., Salina Senior Center. Hungry? Try the 1/2 lb buffalo burger! Bingo: 9:30 a.m. in the Salina Senior Center. Blood Sugar Testing provided by Deli Sandwiches, Cheese Steaks, Gourmet Hamburgers, Angels Care Home Health: 11 a.mCheesecake, ., Salina SeniorCinnamon Center. A finger Fresh Baked Bread, Rolls,prick Etc. is required, so a writtenPUT consent formSANDWICH will be required. This will take aUSE! few seconds to get YOUR CLAMPS TOonly GOOD your results. Computer “Guided Learning Session” provided by Maurice Kerr of ALSO DAILY SPECIALS OFFERED The Computer Helper: 11 a.mDine .–1p.Inm.,orSalina CarrySenior Out Center Computer Lab. Cards: (785) 404-6058 Dominoes, Pinochle and Joker Board (marbles), 1 p.m., Salina Senior Center dining Mon thru Sat, 7 AM to 3 PM room
KANZA YAN Z A!
tunes. Christmas bells are in many classic Christmas songs: “Jingle Bells,” “Silver Bells,” and “Christmas Bells are Ringing,” are three well-known Christmas carols that have been passed down for generations. •
Santa Claus and his reindeer jingle bells as they
fly through the sky. Bells are attached to the reindeer harnesses and Santa’s sleigh. • You have probably heard the saying “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings”. Most remember
continued on pg. 9
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ForSenior Advertising Call (785) 404-1000 Living Supplement SENIOR NEWS LINE by Matilda Charles is sponsored by:
RANDY D. LAMER Insurance Agent Ph: 785-820-7020 rlamer229@gmail.com 1923 S. Ohio Salina, KS 67401
What Keeps Us Young? A recent British study showed how those over 50 can stay young. American seniors aren’t so different, are we? Maybe we can learn a few things from their list of preferred activities across the pond. Food was big on the list. Trying new food, and eating sweets, spicy dishes and chocolate were all favored. To that I would add trying a new restaurant. Reading books that are challenging -- perhaps exploring new authors or another genre entirely -- offers brain stretching. Beating younger relatives at games and socializing with grownup children and grandkids, perhaps at a first-run movie in the theater, helps us learn what they’re thinking and talking about. Playing practical jokes and watching stand-up comedy points to the necessity of finding things to laugh about. Exercise wasn’t left off the list. Yoga, Zumba, salsa dancing and cycling were favorites. One of the most popular ways to stay young, according to the survey, is to surf the Web, as it combines many favorite activities. That means owning electronic gadgets -- computers, e-readers like Kindle and iPhones (including apps) and iPads. These are all ways to connect and stay front and center in what’s going on in the world. Facebook can be a fun way to keep in touch online, as long as we’re aware of the dangers and use the right settings to control who accesses the page. Twitter can be challenging for those brave souls who can handle the flow of messages. One very notable characteristic of those in the survey: 40 percent considered themselves to be rebellious. We’re not afraid to think out of the box, are we?
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Independent Retirement Living One and Two Bedroom Appartments Daily Security Checks
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Meals, Housekeeping and Linen Service Recreation and Transportation
626 S. 3rd (785) 825-8183 McCall Manor is locally owned and operated since 1986 Ann McCall, Owner/Director www.mccall-windsor.com Stop by for a tour and & ask about our move-in special!
Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send e-mail to columnreply@ gmail.com.
1. Is the book of Matthew in the Old or New Testament or neither? 2. Who was Herod’s information source as to where the Christ Child was to be born? Joseph, Reuben, Micah, Matthew 3. From Luke 2:13, what term describes an army of angels praising God? Heavenly host, Covenant, Spirit multitude, Manoah 4. What group received the angels’ announcement of the birth of Jesus? Carpenters, Shepherds, Tentmakers, Masons 5. Where was the young child when the Magi came to visit Him to present gifts? Manger, Under the stars, House, Temple 6. From Matthew 2, to what country did Mary, Joseph and the Baby Jesus flee? Jordan, Syria, Oman, Egypt
1. When and where did the Bee Gees make their American television debut? 2. Which one-hit group recorded “Please Love Me Forever” in 1961? 3. What is singer Tony Burrows best known for? 4. Name Herbie Hancock’s best-known solo jazz efforts. (Hint: Think fruit.) 5. Name the song with this lyric: “I get so tired of working so hard for our survival. I look to the time with you to keep me awake and alive ...”
Tidbits® of Salina
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The Diamond Gates In the Christian legend, when a person dies they are called up to the big leagues -- in this case, Heaven. But, like most things in life, it’s not so simple to get past the gatekeeper, who in this story is St. Peter, one of the original apostles and the first Catholic Pope. It is there that you will be judged. The upside to the deal is if you get in, you’re there for eternity. The downside means you get sent down to Hell, where you burn in fire and are tortured relentlessly. Again, the time period being eternity. Those are some pretty heavy stakes. All I know is, when it’s my turn to appear before St. Peter, I want Marvin Miller by my side. The guy knows a thing or two about breaking out of what would appear to be an eternal
contract, and he’s already dealt with the devil that was Charlie Finley. Miller also is, presumably, already up in the big ball orchard in the sky, having passed away the morning of this writing at the age of 95. Miller is generally regarded as one of the most important people in baseball history, up there with Hall of Famers Babe Ruth and Jackie Robinson. Unlike those two, however, Miller never swung a bat in a Major League game. He did, however, swat down some of the most unfair business practices American sports had ever known -- namely the lack of arbitration and the unfair application of the reserve clause. It’s hard to believe it now, but there was a time when players were forbidden to have an agent negotiate contracts. Guys like Mickey Mantle and Sandy Koufax had to literally go to their general managers office with hat in hand and take whatever was offered to them. Further, they believed that they had the right to activate a reserve clause that would keep the player of their choice in bondage for eternity (or at least the end of their career). Curt Flood became the first free
agent in 1972, but for baseball, the levee really broke when Charlie Finley failed to honor his contract with Catfish Hunter. Hunter, considered one of the best pitchers in the league, became a free agent and signed with the Yankees. Spurned, Finley went back to his evil lair and came up with a solution: Let all of the players declare free agency! Open up the floodgates and then owners would again be able to set their price and keep salaries down. Chaos is the devil’s tool, and Miller made sure to keep the players union in good graces by staggering free agency, allowing players to receive whatever the market would bear, resulting in the perfect, heavenly, devilmay-care panacea that is today’s game of baseball. So hats off to Marvin Miller ... from the baseball diamond to the pearly gates? Well, he was Jewish, but I think those matters can be sorted out up there. He’s got a pretty solid set of negotiation skills, after all. Mark Vasto is a veteran sportswriter who lives in Kansas City.
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For Advertising Call (785) 404-1000
Hurry Up and Wait, Wait, Wait The plan was for the Department of Veterans Affairs to be caught up on the backlog of veterans’ claims by 2015. By then, it was hoped, all claims would be wrapped up within 125 days. To track how the VA is doing, the nonprofit Center for Investigative Reporting has put together a self-updating map showing, via circles of varying sizes, the number of veterans awaiting resolution of their claims. Click on a circle and the corresponding information appears below the map. The numbers for certain big-circle areas show that they’re still struggling to get claims completed. In St. Petersburg, Fla., there are 46,366 veterans waiting. Of those, 30,321 are past the 125-day mark, with the average wait time being 270 days. Baltimore has 19,662 veterans waiting, and 16,472 have waited more than 125 days, with the average claim time running at 343 days. Granted, in some of the high-population areas it might be said that the VA is overwhelmed: too many claims and too few workers. But not all areas have high population density. Some of the communities are downright small. White River Junction, Vt. -- As expected, this rural area doesn’t have many veterans. Specifically, it has 969 veterans awaiting claims. Why, then, are 589 of those veterans waiting an average of 239 days on their claims? Appeals average 1,084 days. Then there’s little Fargo, N.D. -- Of 1,066 veterans with claims, 292 of them have waited more than 125 days, with the average wait time being 146 days. Appeals average 1,248 days -- that’s almost 3 1/2 years! To see the stats on your regional office area, go online to http:// cironline.org/ and click on “Returning Home to Battle,” then click on the backlog map. Write to Freddy Groves in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send e-mail to columnreply@gmail.com. (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
Need a quick batch of cookies? Keep a box mix of cake on hand. Instead of the listed ingredients, add two eggs and a half-cup of oil to the mix. Mix and shape, then bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes. They are really good, and you can get pretty creative. Inexpensive gift idea: cute holiday coffee mug with a bar of chocolate, a packet of hot cocoa or instant coffee, a peppermint stick and a decorative holiday pick or spray. Place inside a gallon-size zipper-top bag, tie with a ribbon, then trim off the zipper-top, leaving just the plastic. Looks nice. Instead of going out and buying extra items to have on hand for guests, just borrow from your neighbors. Extra towels, place settings, silverware, kitchen appliances: It’s a pretty good bet that someone on your street has it for you to borrow. If you don’t know your neighbors well enough to ask, maybe you should start planning a getto-know-you party right now. Inexpensive gift idea: On the front of an empty photo album or scrapbook, print out and arrange color photos of your recipient in a collage. Glue the photos to the front of the album and cover with a decoupage glaze, like Mod Podge. Let dry and glaze again. You’ve just made a one-of-a-kind gift! “When holiday cookie time comes, I keep a plastic pitcher of hot water in the sink. I toss cookie cutters into it when I am done with them, so the corners are soaking. They really seem to only need a rinse and a quick brushoff afterward. Mine don’t get caked up with dough.” -- Jill C., via email Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 328536475 or e-mail JoAnn at heresatip@yahoo.com.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Make a start on that new workplace challenge. But get more information before you find yourself too deeply involved without knowing in which direction you should go. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You might find things becoming tedious as your schedule slows down for the holidays. Use this time to get information about a possible post-New Year job change. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) The creative Twin finds outlets for her or his ideas in the early part of the week. The practical Twin takes it a step further and rallies support to turn the ideas into reality. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) It’s time to stop being intimidated by someone’s negative behavior. Start taking positive steps on your own to help strengthen your position down the line. LEO (July 23 to August 22) Look closely at that so-called golden opportunity. Best to be a cautious Cat who approaches things slowly, than one who pounces without knowing where you’ll land. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Your apology can resolve that personal situation before it overshadows the holidays. You’ll feel better, even if you’re only partly to blame for what happened. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Avoid overtaxing yourself, even if your energy levels are high and you feel that you can do it all. Best to pace yourself so you won’t run yourself down before the holidays. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Your sense of humor helps get you through a stressful period. Some of your quick quips can take the edge off any remaining negativity being aimed at you. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Your artistic talents not only help you express yourself these days, but they also set up a line of communication between you and someone very special. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) It’s fine to appreciate the importance of “proper form” for doing things. But relax a bit in order to allow newcomers on the project to feel less intimidated by you. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Use your boundless reserve of optimism to persuade others to work with you to resolve a difficult workplace problem before it can ruin your holiday fun. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You brim over with self-confidence as you begin to tackle a new challenge. And, before you know it, you’re not alone: Others have taken the plunge with you. BORN THIS WEEK: You have a highly defined sense of commitment to others. You would make a fine social worker. (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
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Tidbits® of Salina
TOP OF THE CHARTS as of Dec. 3, 2012
PHOTO: One Direction’s Harry Styles Top 10 Pop Singles This Week Last Week 1. Rihanna No. 2 “Diamonds” 2. Maroon 5 No. 1 “One More Night” 3. Ke$ha No. 3 “Die Young” 4. Bruno Mars No. 6 “Locked Out of Heaven” 5. fun. No. 4 “Some Nights” 6. Ne-Yo No. 8 “Let Me Love You (Until You Learn to Love Yourself)” 7. PSY No. 5 “Gangnam Style” 8. The Lumineers No. 13 “Ho Hey” 9. Taylor Swift No. 7 “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” 10. Flo Rida No. 10 “I Cry” Top 10 Albums 1. One Direction new entry “Take Me Home” 2. Taylor Swift No. 1 “Red” 3. Soundtrack new entry “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2” 4. The Weekend new entry “Trilogy” 5. Soundgarden new entry “King Animal” 6. Rod Stewart No. 3 “Merry Christmas, Baby” 7. Christina Aguilera new entry “Lotus” 8. Various Artists No. 2 “NOW 44” 9. Green Day new entry “Dos!” 10. Lana Del Rey new entry “Paradise (EP)” Top 10 Hot Country Singles 1. Taylor Swift No. 1 “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” 2. Florida Georgia Line No. 2 “Cruise” 3. Luke Bryan No. 4 “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye” 4. Hunter Hayes No. 5 “Wanted” 5. Carrie Underwood No. 3 “Blown Away” 6. Lee Brice No. 6 “Hard to Love” 7. Jake Owen No. 7 “The One That Got Away” 8. Rascal Flatts No. 9 “Come Wake Me Up” 9. Miranda Lambert No. 8 “Fastest Girl In Town” 10. Justin Moore No. 10 “Til My Last Day” (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
EDITOR’S NOTE: DVDs reviewed in this column will be available in stores the week of Dec. 17, 2012.
PHOTO: Ana Kendrick in “Pitch Perfect” PICKS OF THE WEEK “Pitch Perfect” (PG-13) -- The Bellas are an allvocal university ensemble looking to reinvent themselves after an embarrassing performance. Beca (Ana Kendrick) is an incoming
college freshman who’s already too cool for school, but somehow gets coerced into joining this singing group. Of course, the gaggle of misfits drastically improve their singing and take on the obnoxious rival singers, the Treble Makers. It’s more tolerable than an episode of “Glee.” The musical performances are impressive, even for those who aren’t into such things. Kendrick brings vocal talent and star power to the musical numbers. Self-referential humor and some promising young comic-relief actors push this one over the line from tolerable to even enjoyable. “Total Recall” (PG-13) -- In the grimy, bluetinted future, you can get sweet memories implanted in your brain. Instead of taking a vacation or seeking therapy, Douglas Quaid (Colin Farrell) chooses to have memories of another life as a super-spy zapped into his brain. During the process, something goes awry and Quaid is suddenly hunted by the authorities and finds himself in the role of revolutionary hero. This movie hardly has the right to exist in the same universe as the 1990 film of the same name, starring good ol’ Arnold Schwarzenegger, so I’ll hold back on comparing the two. Don’t expect mind-bending science-fiction or over-the-top humor. This is boilerplate futuristic blockbuster thriller. The action sequences are nice, but your recall of the film will intertwine with the boring bits from movies like “Minority Report,” forming one blu-ish futuristic memory mush.
“Trouble With the Curve” (PG-13) -- Clint Eastwood snarls and grumps his way through this drama about a reluctant old codger reconnecting with his daughter through the business of baseball. Gus (Eastwood) is a renowned talent scout for major-league baseball, but it seems his age is catching up to him. His daughter (Amy Adams) takes a leave from her big-shot law firm to accompany him on one last season of high-pressure drafts. It’s a slow, predictable drama that isn’t exactly a stretch for ol’ Clint. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days” (PG) -- Greg is the scrawny young man at the center of the popular “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” book series. This misadventure has Greg pretending to have a summer job. The wimpy kid is getting bigger, and his lies become less endearing with every inch he grows. He’s outgrowing the precocious kid role and now faces the less appealing side of annoying adolescence. It’s not as sinister as all that -- everybody learns their lesson and bonds by the end -- but the charm of the story isn’t enough to reach folks who aren’t already fans. TV RELEASES “Army Wives: Season Six -- Part Two” “Mankind: The Story of All of Us” “Shameless: The Complete Second Season” “Californication: The Fifth Season” “Here’s Lucy Season 6” (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
For Advertising Call (785) 404-1000 WHISTLES (continued from pg.4): this saying from the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life,” but over a hundred years ago this was a very common saying. FAMOUS LANDMARKS OF THE WORLD: MACHU PICCHU One of the most intriguing ancient sites in the world sits at a high elevation in the Andean mountains of Peru in South America. • The magnificent setting sits 9,060 feet (2,761 m) above sea level. Covering 5 square miles (12.95 sq km), Machu Picchu is the most unusual urban creation known that was built by the ancient Incan Empire. The terraces, ramps and giant walls look as if they were cut naturally in the rock escarpments but they were built by the Incans.
Find the Right Gifts for Dogs or Cats DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My daughter and her family have two big dogs and a cat. I like giving gifts to the pets as well as my grandkids. Do you have any suggestions? -- Tammy, via email
• Machu Picchu means “Old Peak” in the local Quechuan language. The Incas may not have been the first people to use the mountaintop site but they were the ones who turned the site into an extraordinary city. •
The ruins of the old civilization sit high in the
clouds above the Urubamba River. There are remains of palaces, baths, storage rooms, temples and about 150 houses. The structures are carved from the granite of the mountain top and are architectural and aesthetic wonders. Many of the giant building blocks weigh 50 tons or more (45 metric tons +) but are fitted together in such a way as to not allow a thin knife blade to be inserted in the mortarless joints. • The ancient city is invisible from below and completely self-contained. The agriculture is and was sufficient for the residents with natural springs for drinking and crop production. • Yale history professor, Hiram Bingham, is given credit for “discovering” Machu Picchu in 1911. In fact, the Incan people and others had already found the area! He “rediscovered” it and brought it much fame by revealing what he saw in lectures, news articles and books after his return. •
The Inca civilization is one of the ancient
cultures that has been studied for centuries. Back in the time of Columbus’ “discovery” of America, the Incan Empire was in control of most of South America. A mysterious culture, the Incans had phenomenal abilities in construction, agricultural, and organization that are still apparent in the high
DEAR TAMMY: Anything that looks cozy, fun and safe for pets is a good bet. I’ve always appreciated even small gifts like a cute bandanna for my dog or small catnip toys for my cat. If you’re looking for gifts beyond stocking stuffers, here are some that most pet owners will appreciate: --Dog and cat beds: These range in price from about $15 on up to a few hundred dollars. Look for a sturdy fabric covering that is easy to brush fur from, and stuffing that can’t be easily pulled out and chewed on. --Cat furniture: From a simple pad-
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ded windowsill seat to “kitty condo” play complexes that cats can wander through, cat owners appreciate these combination scratching posts and rest areas. --Travel safety: A number of products have come on the market to keep dogs and cats safe in the car, from traditional travel crates to adapted seat belts that keep Fido securely in his seat. --Toys: For your daughter’s big dogs, sturdy chew toys are probably welcome. I still really like Kong chew toys, which are nearly impossible to damage and can be filled with peanut butter or another treat. For cats, something beyond the catnip mouse could include one of Bergan’s “Turbo Tracks,” in which a ball inset in a round or figure-eight track scoots around with every swipe of the paw. No matter which gift you choose, or if you decide to just give small, inexpensive gifts to your daughter’s pets, I’m sure they’ll be appreciated. Send your questions or comments to ask@pawscorner.com, or write to Paw’s Corner, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. For more pet care-related advice and information, visit www. pawscorner.com.
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Tidbits® of Salina MACHU PICCHU (continued): mountains of the city of Machu Picchu. • The Incas were overthrown by the Spanish in 1532 and their culture became virtually unknown until discoveries such as Bingham’s revealed much of their history years later. • It is believed, through much of the archeological evidence, that Machu Picchu was an important ceremonial center for the Incas. In 2001, Peru’s first president of Andean Indian descent, Alejandro Toledo, celebrated his inauguration at Machu Picchu. • Even though the ancient city is not easy to get to, there are thousands of tourists who flock there every year. In fact, the Peruvian government introduced new tourist limits in 2011 to protect the historical sites. • Train and bus rides now take tourists to the top of the mountain that is Machu Picchu today. In Bingham’s time in the early 1900s mules and hiking were the only way to go. When the trails and old city were cleared of overgrown brush after years of neglect, well-constructed roads with pavement and drainage were discovered. The Incas had set up a nice system that was ahead of their time. •
Hiking is still possible for tourists who prefer
more adventure. There are many stairs at Machu Picchu; in fact, more than 100 individual staircases, many of them carved somewhat miraculously from single slabs of stone. CHRISTMAS CARDS The first Christmas cards were issued to raise awareness of people in need. In 1843, Sir Henry Cole, in England, wanted to help those living in desolate conditions. •
Sir Henry was a writer of children’s books,
handbooks for art and design and many more ventures. He was involved in public service for more than 50 years, including assisting with the postal service.
Why Your Mortgage Might be Denied If your plan for the New Year involves getting ready to buy a home, you’ll need to make sure all your plans don’t fall apart at the last minute with a mortgage application that gets turned down. Go Banking Rates has compiled a list of 10 reasons that mortgages get rejected. 1. Too many jobs: If you’ve recently changed jobs or fields, have been unemployed or haven’t worked consistently in the past two years, your employment history could be a problem. Some lenders insist that you’ve kept the same job, unless you were promoted. 2. Child support and alimony: If you don’t disclose that you make these kind of payments, the lender can find out just by calling the courthouse. These payments are considered debts and must be reported on your application. 3. New applications for credit: If you apply for new credit between the time you fill out a mortgage application and are approved for the mortgage, you’ll likely have problems. 4. Closing old credit accounts: Your credit utilization ratios and availability changes the minute you close an account. That skews the numbers lenders
look at in deciding whether to give you a loan. Don’t touch old accounts. 5. Borrowing money for the down payment: If money has been given to you, don’t try to claim that you saved it. The lender will find out, and the loan will likely be denied. 6. Late dues by condo tenants: If you’re trying to buy a condo, the Federal Housing Administration insists that not more than 15 percent of the tenants be more than 60 days late in paying dues. 7. The loan is too small: If you’re seeking a loan of $50,000 or less, you might be denied a mortgage. Making a small loan is not worth it to a lender. 8. Paying an old debt: If you had a debt go to collections long ago, and it rolled off your credit report because of the passing of time, paying that debt now will reactivate it. Your lender will see it as recent negative activity. 9. Differing FICO scores: If you send away for your FICO score, it’s not likely that the lender will get the same number from its sources. 10. Secondary market: If your loan is to be sold on the secondary market, the qualification standards will be stricter. For more information, go online to GoBankingRates.com. David Uffington regrets that he cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into his column whenever possible. Write to him in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send email to columnreply@gmail.com.
For Advertising Call (785) 404-1000
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TOP TEN VIDEO, DVD as of Dec. 3, 2012 Top 10 Video Rentals 1. The Amazing Spider-Man (PG-13) Andrew Garfield 2. Prometheus (R) Noomi Rapace 3. The Campaign (R) Will Ferrell 4. Brave (PG) animated 5. That’s My Boy (R) Adam Sandler 6. Magic Mike (R) Channing Tatum 7. Marvel’s the Avengers (2012) (PG-13) Robert Downey Jr. 8. Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (PG) animated 9. The Raven (R) John Cusack 10. Arthur Christmas (PG) animated Top 10 DVD Sales 1. Brave (PG) (Walt Disney) 2. The Amazing Spider-Man (PG-13) (Sony) 3. Savages (R) (Universal) 4. The Watch (R) (20th Century Fox) 5. Arthur Christmas (PG) (Sony) 6. Secret of the Wings (G) (Disney) 7. Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (PG) (Paramount) 8. Marvel’s The Avengers (PG-13) (Walt Disney) 9. The Campaign (R) (Warner Bros.) 10. Magic Mike (R) (Warner Bros.) Source: Rentrak Corp.
1. Name the only stadium that is currently home to an NFL team and a major-league baseball team. 2. Who played more games with one team: Brooks Robinson or Robin Yount? 3. Name the first team in college football history to be voted a unanimous No. 1 in both the media and coaches polls. 4. When was the last time the Hawks were in the NBA Finals? 5. Name the last time an NHL team won the Stanley Cup while having no player reach the 60-point mark during the regular season. 6. What was the last vehicle other than a Toyota to win a NASCAR Truck series race at Daytona International Speedway? 7. Name the last married woman to win a singles title at Wimbledon.
It was the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, who made the following observation: “The man who reads nothing at all is better educated than the man who reads nothing but newspapers.”
of September were still there come March 1983. In that month, one of the contestants was arrested for dealing drugs, but the remaining two stayed aloft until May. Once the freezing winter was finally over, the radio station decided to declare both of the men winners. As the end of the year approaches, you might consider an old British tradition of fortune-telling. Light a candle, place it on the floor and jump over it. If the flame does not go out, you’re likely to enjoy good luck during the coming year.
Those who study such things say that a rainbow can’t be seen at midday; the optical phenomena are visible only in the morning or in the late afternoon. If you’re like the average American, you use between 75 and 100 gallons of water every In 1982, a radio station in Allentown, Pa., day. thought its rating could use a bit of a boost, so it came up with a contest: Three contest- The Sahara Desert is nearly as large as the ants, selected at random, would live on top continental United States. of one of the station’s billboards (portable *** toilets and sleeping bags were provided). Thought for the Day: “If at first you don’t The last one to give up would be awarded succeed, try again. Then quit. No use being a mobile home. The problem was, nobody a damn fool about it.” -- W.C. Fields wanted to give up. The three men who climbed to the top of the sign at the end
On Dec. 18, 1777, the new United States celebrates its first national day of thanksgiving, commemorating the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga after the surrender of Gen. John Burgoyne and 5,000 British troops that October. On Dec. 22, 1808, Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony has its world premiere in Vienna. The concert venue was freezing cold and the orchestra played poorly enough to force the nearly deaf composer -- also acting as conductor and pianist -- to stop the ensemble partway into one passage and start again from the very beginning. On Dec. 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, N.C., Orville and Wilbur Wright make the first successful flight of a self-propelled aircraft. Orville piloted the gasoline-powered, propeller-driven biplane, which stayed aloft for 12 seconds and covered 120 feet on its inaugural flight. On Dec. 19, 1917, four teams of the National Hockey League play the league’s first two games. At the time of its inception, the NHL was made up of the Canadiens and the Wanderers (both of Montreal), the Ottawa Senators, the Quebec Bulldogs and the Toronto Arenas. On Dec. 23, 1968, the crew and captain of the U.S. intelligence gathering ship Pueblo are released after 11 months imprisonment by the government of North Korea. The ship, and its 83-man crew, was seized by warships on Jan. 23 and charged with intruding into North Korean waters. On Dec. 21, 1970, rock star Elvis Presley pays a surprise visit to President Richard Nixon at the White House to discuss the war on drugs. Presley apparently was not searched before being granted admission: Upon meeting Nixon, he presented the president with a gift -- a World War II-era Colt .45 pistol. On Dec. 20, 1989, “Roger & Me,” a documentary by Michael Moore about his quest to interview Roger Smith, then chairman and chief executive officer of General Motors, opens in theaters. The film examines the devastating impact on the people of Moore’s hometown of Flint, Mich., following the closing of several General Motors auto plants in the area. (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
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Tidbits® of Salina
Five to Watch in 2013
PHOTO CUTLINE:: Three times now, Carl Edwards has contended for the championship one season only to slump the next. If the pattern holds true, he’ll be one to watch in 2013. (John Clark/NASCAR This Week photo)
Brad Keselowski’s against-all-odds run to the Sprint Cup championship breathed new life into a Sprint Cup Series landscape in which no one other than Jimmie Johnson or Tony Stewart had won a championship in seven years. The championship gives Keselowski, 28, a status that can’t be bought or promoted. He wasn’t merely the champion. He became NASCAR’s man to watch. There will be others, if for no other reason than because 2013 will be a new year. Everyone knows that Keselowski, Johnson and Stewart -- not to mention Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin, Matt Kenseth and the rest -- will play major roles in the next season. Who else will the cameras favor? CLINT BOWYER Surprise! It was Bowyer, not Johnson, who finished second to Keselowski. The two are similarly personable and, at times, similarly controversial. Bowyer will undoubtedly be a popular dark horse when predictions are made regarding 2013. CARL EDWARDS Three times (2005, ‘08, and ‘11) Edwards contended for championships. In each case, he slumped the following year. In each case, he came back part of the way the next season and made a title run the third. If the pattern holds,
Flashback Answers 1. In 1968 on “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.” Their name came from the initials of a DJ named Bill Gates who introduced them to a promoter named Bill Goode, and is not an abbreviation of Brothers Gibb, as is widely believed. 2. Cathy Jean and the Roommates. The original duo’s biggest claim to fame was coming in second in a talent show behind Tom & Jerry, aka Simon and Garfunkel. 3. Burrows consistently sang with groups who had only one hit. He sang lead on “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” and “My Baby Loves Lovin’,” both in 1970. 4. “Watermelon Man” (1962) and “Cantaloupe Island” (1964). 5. “In Your Eyes,” by Peter Gabriel on his 1986 album “So.” It took nearly 20 years, but in 2005, the song finally had enough sales to be certified Gold.
Answers 1. The Oakland Coliseum (A’s and Raiders). 2. Robinson played 2,896 games with the Orioles; Yount played 2,856 games with the Brewers. 3. Southern Cal, in 1972. 4. In 1961, the Hawks (then in St. Louis) lost to Boston in five games. 5. The New Jersey Devils in 2003. 6. Mark Martin drove a Ford to victory at Daytona in 2006. 7. Chris Evert Lloyd, in 1981.
he’ll make the Chase again next year. RICKY STENHOUSE JR. Stenhouse, with two Nationwide Series championships in tow, is well prepared for the big time. Replacing Kenseth at Roush Fenway isn’t going to be easy. He will probably have his struggles, but few would be surprised to see him in victory lane. JOEY LOGANO Five years ago, the betting line would have favored Logano to win a championship ahead of Keselowski. Now, at the well-seasoned age of 22, Logano is Keselowski’s teammate, and the plan is for the two to give Roger Penske a cohesive team as well as a title. DANICA PATRICK The evidence suggests she is far from ready to be a competitive force in Sprint Cup, but the money is there and she has a full-time Cup ride teaming with Stewart and Ryan Newman. She’s getting better, but the learning curve has to accelerate quickly. *** Monte Dutton covers motorsports for The Gaston (N.C.) Gazette. E-mail Monte at nascarthisweek@yahoo.com. (c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.
Trivia Quiz Bible Quiz Answers 1. Someone who collects autographs 2. Henry Winkler 3. Roald Dahl 4. Andorra 5. A many-headed monster whose heads could grow back if they were cut off 6. Breakfast cereal with fruit and nuts 7. Florence, Italy 8. Temperature 9. "Expelliarmus!" 10. Back
ANSWERS: 1) New; 2) Micah; 3) Heavenly host; 4) Shepherds; 5) House; 6) Egypt Wilson Casey’s trivia book “Know It? ... or Not?” is available from BearManorMedia.com.