Day: August 17, 2025

The day was gray and heavy, as if the sky itself understood the loss. Friends, family, and fans gathered in quiet reverence to say goodbye to Gordon Lightfoot — the legendary musician whose voice had carried stories across decades, whose songs had woven themselves into the hearts of millions. The church was filled with the soft murmur of memories shared and the gentle rustle of tissues. Flowers lined the aisle, their scent mingling with the faint echo of guitar chords playing in the minds of those who loved him. But amid the solemn crowd, one figure stood out — not… CONTINUE READING…

Sharing is caring! Next time you drive by there you might want to know that in the 1940s and 50s it was a working ranch of a special sort. Known as “Murray’s Ranch,” and “The Overall Wearing Dude Ranch,” it was African-American owned and operated in the Bell Mountain community. California Eagle, Sun, Aug 29, 1937  According to The History of Apple Valley by Kate O’ Rourke, Murray’s “Overall Wearing Dude Ranch” was the only African-American dude ranch in the United States, and the only ranch in the area to be written about in Life magazine at the time. The earliest Black… CONTINUE READING…

When we encounter something from our past, it often brings back a flood of nostalgic memories. These memories, though simple, have the power to make us feel positive about our history. Often, this sense of nostalgia can be triggered by a simple object we once used during childhood. Even if we didn’t use it ourselves, the memory of seeing others use it can still evoke that warm, familiar feeling from our past. This vintage agricultural tool has a long history and continues to be used today, though it has evolved over time. I’m referring to the hay hook, a straightforward… CONTINUE READING…

The Morning Star Villa in Cape May, New Jersey is a one-of-a-kind historic jewel! This beautiful structure was originally built in 1884. It is notable because in 1893, a fourth floor was added above the mansard roof, giving the building a very unusual visual effect. Zoned residential/commercial, the Morning Star Villa is one of the country’s oldest beach resort destinations. Interestingly, in May of 1967, the entire building was moved one mile. Try as she might, House Crazy Sarah could not find a reason why this move was done. Hurricane flooding mitigation perhaps?  If anyone knows, please share! In any case the large, striking building looks right… CONTINUE READING…

Once the world’s largest reinforced concrete structure, this abandoned bridge now beckons urban explorers. About The Paulinskill Viaduct, which was completed in 1910, was once the world’s largest reinforced concrete structure. At a total length of 1,100 feet and with a clearance of 115 feet, the New Jersey structure still a worthy feat of engineering to behold, even though it has since lost its record-holding title. Trains traveled atop the railway up until the late 20th century, then traffic gradually diminished as the years passed. The last train crossed the bridge in 1979. After the viaduct officially closed in 1982, the railroad… CONTINUE READING…

Fern Court House | San Mateo, Florida | Built c. 1889 Fern Court, a striking Victorian mansion in San Mateo, Florida, is more than just a house. It is a keeper of stories. Built in the late 19th century, this grand estate has welcomed distinguished guests, echoed with music from glittering dances in its third-floor ballroom, and stood as a proud landmark in the quiet riverside community of San Mateo in Putnam County, perched above the St. Johns River. Step inside, and the Gilded Age still whispers from every corner: the warm gleam of original wood floors, the jewel tones… CONTINUE READING…

Smoke billowed from the apartment window, thick and black, as flames licked the walls and ceiling. Inside, two adults and four children were trapped, panic rising with every second. Escape routes were blocked, and fear gripped them as heat and smoke intensified. From the street below, onlookers froze, unsure how anyone could reach them. But Fousseynou Cissé didn’t hesitate. Without a second thought, he climbed onto the narrow 6th-floor ledge, every step a test of balance and courage. One by one, he reached the window. First, the smallest child — a baby barely dressed — trembling in the chaos. Fousseynou… CONTINUE READING…

K9 Tommy wasn’t just any dog—he was a partner, a protector, and a beloved member of the Ohio law enforcement family. A German Shepherd, he had served diligently with the Ohio Department for seven years, responding to calls, assisting in searches, and providing comfort and safety in moments of crisis. His presence was a reassuring constant for the officers he worked alongside, a silent hero whose instincts and courage saved countless lives. But after years of tireless service, Tommy faced a battle he could not win. Diagnosed with aggressive cancer, his condition worsened rapidly. The difficult decision was made to… CONTINUE READING…

Keith Urban is widely celebrated as one of the most successful country musicians of his generation. With Grammy Awards, sold-out tours, and chart-topping singles, his musical journey is enough to cement his legacy. But Urban’s life story goes far beyond the stage. From his whirlwind romance with Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman to his quiet but impactful charitable work, Keith Urban embodies what it means to live a life of purpose. His path has not been without struggle—family tragedy, personal battles, and the pressures of fame have all shaped him into the man he is today. This is the story of… CONTINUE READING…