Out and About Blog by Norm Stutesman

We recently had a cottonwood tree removed. The tree was probably eighty years old and had been hit by lightning a couple of times. It stood at least eighty feet tall and the fear of it falling was the main reason for removal. The fact that it shed twigs and other debris on the deck and yard contributed to the …

The Covid-19 pandemic is responsible for the cancellation of many of the usual summer events throughout St. Joe County. The annual Water Festival in Three Rivers is one example. The Farmers’ Market is one of the latest. Usually held every Thursday in Scidmore Park, the Farmers’ Market always had plenty of home-grown vegetables, plus other non-food items available for purchase. …

I really enjoy oriental food. However, I’m not a big fan of the hot-spicy entrees. I enjoy eggrolls, noodles, and especially rice of all varieties. There is a brand of rice called “Uncle Ben’s”. By looking at a box of Uncle Ben’s Rice, you can see that Uncle Ben is more African American than of Oriental decent. Because of the …

Last week I wrote a lot about naps and sleep. Before I continue with this week’s column, I’d like to share a few more ideas that might help you nap a little better. I find it ironic how, as a baby, we all spent a lot of time napping. As we got older, naps were not as welcome, because it …

Just about everyone in my family loves onions. Onions go with just about everything from a juicy hamburger to a peanut butter sandwich, and nothing makes liver taste any better than if you smother it with grilled onions. I can’t think of anyone who doesn’t like fresh onion rings. There are different types of onions with different ways of using …

Covid-19 has now claimed the lives of over 80,000 in the United States. In Vietnam, we lost approximately 58,000 Americans. We are reminded of this every time we watch just about any newscast. This is a sad time we’re going through. Someday, there will hopefully be a cure for the Coronavirus. Scientists are working very hard to find a cure …

Finally, there have been some restrictions lifted by those in power. I’m so thankful that you can now visit the local tattoo parlor. This should definitely help the economy get back on its feet, arms, backs, chests and necks. I’m wondering if the act of shaking hands or giving hugs will return. Howie Mandel has refused to shake hands with …

Fourteen years ago this month, I had my first column published. An awful lot has happened over the past fourteen years. I am thankful for you readers who let me know that you appreciate my contribution. Last week I shared an opinion about how the “Seventh Inning Stretch” in baseball came to be. Here’s another opinion a bit more believable: …

Because of the virus going around, and the fact that we have all been advised to stay home and stay safe, those who can, are working from their home, rather than going to the office. I am doing just that. I stop by my office on occasion to pick something up, then I return home, where I have been advised …

Wednesday, April 15th, is not “Tax Day”. We have until July 15th to file our returns. This gives us plenty of extra time to get our affairs in order. This is not the time to procrastinate. A cowboy friend of mine reminded me of a column I had written several weeks ago. It dealt with making some sort of extra …