We are so blessed here in Redding. When it gets a bit too hot in the valley, we can head for the hills. It’s not far at all to Lassen Park, maybe an hour or so drive. Once there, you will find tourists from all over the world enjoying the scenery and volcanic splendor. We took these shots on Friday.

Talk about unclear on the concept. I had just been reading Jim Dyar’s recent article about the Hot Start to the Cascade’s season and thinking that Redding’s really developing quite a live music scene. Then this sign on Hilltop Drive took it all back. Via cell-phone camera:

I like DJ’s as much as the next person, but if the only instrument you play is an MP3 file, you might not qualify as live music. Note to tourists driving by on Hilltop: This was probably a joke, see. We’re not like that, really. No, really.

If it isn’t live music, it’s dead music.

Spotted this flock of pink plastic in a neighbor’s yard this morning. Apparently their arrival could mark just about any occasion, or even be a fundraiser. There’s a link to the You’ve Been Flocked website HERE.

Of course it was most apparent that these birds were deliberately ignoring the directional sign.

I met a local photographer yesterday, and was introduced to his work. Brian Martinson (530) 547 3654 grew up in Palo Cedro and has some very excellent images. You can learn more about him, and see some of his work at his MySpace page HERE. Worth a look. Nice to meet you Brian. Good work.

The Progressive Celtic band Tempest made a repeat appearance at the Mosquito Serenade, and put on a fine show indeed.

At first only the youngest kids are dancing, since they are more in touch with the muse.

But soon, the group of dancers grows larger, as the bigger kids join in.

Like a chain reaction, the group of dancers builds.

This band is hotter than than an Anderson July.

Soon the whole crowd is one single pulsating organism, throbbing to the rhythym.

Yes, you have them in the palm of your hand. Nice work.

What a terrific venue. This is a longtime Anderson tradition, but since Ken Hartman has been running the show and improving the facility, it’s really become special. Thanks to all who contribute. And Tempest, well, you blew us away!

It’s very cool, this lillypad. Location, location, location. That’s what they say.

You need a mate, you’ll have to wait.

But then don’t hesitate.

With thanks to the model, posed in our backstep waterworld.

The Art Hop Birthday Bash was a huge success, from all we saw. There were lots of people out and about, and so much to see and do. We went for quality over quantity, spending time at Kimberly Nicole, and also catching a set of Just Married at the Discovery Shop. The Redding scene continues to evolve…

You know it’s a mild July day in Redding when Hula dancers can perform barefoot on asphalt while the sun’s still up in the sky.

And of course every performer’s dream gig is a corner in a secondhand store, but sometimes certain things just fit comfortably in Redding, and you are compelled to go with the flow.

Yes, they are Still Married, and they offer their authentic CD’s for a mere $5. How can you go wrong on that? A perfect Art Hop birthday present.

Thanks Art Hoppers and shoppers!

Have you seen somebody with a new video camera, or perhaps been asked to buy a used one at an attractive price? I ran across the ad below on Craigslist and wanted to bring it to your attention. I don’t think the particular type of scum who prey upon camper’s cars read my blog, and appealing to a thief’s “conscience” seems pointless. But I thought the more people were aware of the ad, the better. For any number of reasons.

I spotted this car yesterday with this big sign taped on it. Not something you see everyday. Certainly, the sentiment was thought provoking. As we sat at the light in front of Trader Joe’s, I snapped this from my cell phone camera. The sign is a bit hard to read here, but is plain enough in person. As we waited for the light to change, I wondered why the driver felt so compelled.

Every president is endangered. Obama more so than others, for reasons we don’t need to go into here. I see in the news today, the Obamas are in Europe. On reflection, I find I share the driver’s unexpected concern, and extend my prayers to members of his security team as well. It’s a shame this is so, but it can’t be ignored. Godspeed Geo Metro driver, and know your prayers are echoed.

We went up to the city of Mt Shasta for 4th of July. While this is not ‘Really Redding,’ it is typically cooler up here and filled with Reddingites anyway, since it’s just an hour north. They have a terrific 5 mile run, and 2 mile Fun Walk. We chose the fun. So did many others…



There’s all kinds of entertainment and food along the way.






And since it’s always good to name-drop on my blog, here’s KRCR Accuweather-Ace Mike Krueger, along with the youngest Krueger.


A good time was had by all. Have a happy and safe Independence Day wherever you are!