Preparedness Notes for Monday — September 30, 2024

On September 30, 1880, American amateur astronomer Henry Draper took the first-ever photograph of the Orion Nebula.  More recent images have of course been more dazzling, but Draper’s was the first.   — On this day in 1938, the short-lived Treaty of Munich was signed by Hitler, Mussolini, Daladier, and Chamberlain. This treaty forced Czechoslovakia to cede territory to Germany. — I just heard of the death of Kris Kristofferson, at age 88. First known for his music, and later for his acting, he was among America’s Larger Than Life crowd. I first became aware of him as an actor …




Benelli Nova Pump Shotgun in 20 Gauge, by Thomas Christianson

The Benelli Nova and Supernova series of pump shotguns utilize steel-reinforced polymer receivers. This makes the guns strong, durable, and weather-resistant. Polymer-framed handguns are as common as flags on the Fourth of July. Polymer-framed shotguns are much less common. After testing the Benelli Nova Pump Shotgun in 20 Gauge, I am surprised that this is the case. I was highly impressed with its balance, fit and finish, and silky smooth operation. I am surprised that the Nova has not carved out a commanding share of the shotgun market since its introduction in the mid-1990s in the way that Glock has …




Recipe of the Week: Saltine Cracker Crumb Chicken 

The following recipe for Saltine Cracker Crumb Chicken is from SurvivalBlog reader L.A.. Ingredients ½ c. butter or margarine 1 sleeve of saltine crackers, crushed to crumbs ½ c. bread crumbs (Panko crumbs are best, but any others will do.  Or substitute more cracker crumbs, if you don’t have any bread crusts.) ½ tsp. garlic powder 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper (+/- to suit your taste) ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp black pepper 4 medium-sized boneless and skinless chicken breasts Directions Place each chicken breast between two sheets of wax paper. Pound each breast to around 1 in. thickness using a …