Happy Hanukkah

Today is the first day of Hanukkah! This Jewish holiday marks the anniversary of the reconsicration of the Temple in Jerusalem after it was desecrated by Antiochus IV and his troops. Reportedly, there was only enough oil to light the eternal flame temple for one day, but miraculously the oil lasted for eight days. By the time it ran out, more oil had been made. The event is commemorated by lighting candles, giving gifts, eating good food, and being festive in general, so HAPPY HANUKKAH!

How to Weasel Your Way Out of a Traffic Ticket

The best way to not have to pay a ticket, of course, is to drive perfectly. However, if you do make a mistake and get caught, here's a few tips courtesy of Lauren Z. Asher, traffic law specialist.

First, try to put the officer at ease as he/she approaches your car. For all he/she knows, you could be a homicidal maniac, so turn off your engine and put your hands on the steering wheel where they can be seen. Always play dumb when the officer asks you why you think you were pulled over, this maneuver may be a fishing expedition. Be very friendly and talk the officer up before he/she starts filling out the ticket, and it can't hurt to ask for just a warning. Don't argue if they write you a ticket anyway.

Skymining

A company called Skyonic has come up with the Skymine system. This novel process takes carbon dioxide out of industrial smokestacks and uses waste heat from factories to make ordinary pure baking soda. A pilot version has already been installed at the Big Brown Steam Electric Station in Fairfield, Texas (my grandpa worked there for years, by the way). If the Skymine system gains popularity, it could help to curb global warming by reducing carbon dioxide emissions.