Go For The Gold

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The Olympics. Each of us can remember amazing moments throughout our lives when we watched incredible athletes from around the world perform incredible feats, fulfilling  their dreams to compete, representing their respective countries. The Olympics are known the interlocking rings logo, the opening and closing ceremony pageantry, the “walk in” and closing ceremonies and of course the musical themes. But one that doesn’t immediately come to mind is something that the Olympics would be, figuratively speaking, naked without: The music. After all, when one thinks of the Olympic games, one of the first things that pops into our heads would probably be this theme, written by Leo Arnaud, known as the Bugler’s Dream from “Charge,” There’s something about it that stirs your soul. Here’s some trivia and soundtracks I think you’ll enjoy. Thanks to youtube.com. wikipedia.com and medium writer Paulo Camacho. (Let the music clips play out, as I’m sure you’ll enjoy the full compositions) Go Team USA!!

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Dog Days

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There’s no doubt that some days this summer get really hot.  Without much warning, the mercury rises, the clouds disappear and the summer sun and heat become oppressive.  I have to admit, we’re very lucky to be in Cleveland Ohio, next to Lake Erie and far from the real heat belt of the US (go visit Florida, Georgia, Texas or Arizona now that’s real heat!). I got to wondering where the expression “dog days” comes from. It’s true it refers to a period of hot days, but it also has its roots in ancient culture and astronomy.  So, here’s a bit of history and trivia on these “dog days” – thanks to historychannel.com, YouTube and allrecipes.com for the info. Enjoy!

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Symbolic

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Symbols.  They are all around us. Without really thinking, we respond to six sided STOP signs, traffic lights, hazardous chemical marks, UL branding, the recycling arrow symbol, text alerts, street crossing ways, handicap signs, and of course the yellow smile face (thanks Forest Gump). I’m sure you can think of many more. One symbol, that still resonates with people around the world is the simple “peace” sign. Its initial design set out to represent a statement regarding nuclear disarmament but has grown to envelope so many movements with a simple message: PEACE. I did a bit of searching and found some interesting info to share about its construction and other peace signs, some of which you may not know about. Thanks to Wikipedia and Google and YouTube for the info. Enjoy – and as always, Peace to you and your families from your friends at KHT!

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Junky

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The other day I was driving back from a very good customer visit and noticed the line of cars at a national chain hamburger restaurant.  Then I passed another chain, and sure enough, long line. Then I saw a wrap-around line for drive through coffee. It got me to wondering about this type of food, and other “junk food” as we all call it.  I look at the salad option when I stop, but those fries!!!  YUM.  What’s the story behind this fascination, especially the “center aisles” in grocery stores – rows of chips and dips and crackers, and then the cookies and dessert aisles.  I’ll admit, the right bag of chips, with the right brand of dip, and I’m “all in”.  With a little checking I found out junk food has a fascinating and often controversial history, filled with intriguing facts and trivia. So, enjoy the info. And thanks to Google, You Tube and Wikipedia for the info.

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4th of July

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This day reminds us of the
sacrifices and courage all men and women took
to free our country and
to pay our respect to those who made it a free nation
for generations to come.

God Bless America.

 

 

 

 

Yum!

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Yum, yum, yummy, yum, yum!!!!!!!   :)))))))))))))

As I’m guessing most will agree, one of the great taste enjoyments in life is that of a red, ripe strawberry.  As a foodie, this time of year I just can’t get enough strawberries – on my cereal, in my morning smoothies, as a quick snack, on a buffet table, on vanilla ice cream, or just out of the container in the fridge as a side dish… (and “maybe” a fresh strawberry shake here and there). There’s something magical about biting into a fresh strawberry. Sweet, juicy, and yummy. Here in Ohio, our peak season for picking is in June. Jackie and I are looking forward to heading out with the grandkids for a day and do some berry picking. We bring home our harvest, clean ‘em up, and get to enjoying the “farm fresh picked” flavor. My only problem is how many I eat while washing!  I thought you’d like to know a bit more about these delectable berries and wanted to share a few great recipes – start with fresh berries and cool whip.  Thx to Wikipedia and You Tube for the input. Enjoy!

Wild strawberries have been around since ancient times and were consumed by the Romans for their medicinal properties. Strawberries symbolized perfection and righteousness and are often served at important functions to ensure peace and prosperity.

In folklore, strawberries have been associated with Venus, the Roman goddess of love, due to their heart shape and red color. In some cultures, strawberries are considered a symbol of purity, passion, and healing.

Despite being commonly referred to as a berry, the strawberry is technically an aggregate accessory fruit. Each seed on its surface is one of the ovaries of the flower, with a seed inside. The strawberry is the only fruit with seeds on the outside, typically about 200 seeds per berry.

Strawberries are propagated through runners, which are horizontal stems that grow out from the main plant and take root to form new plants. If you’ve had strawberries in your garden, you’ve experienced this growth pattern – and how tough it is to stop them from spreading.

Raw strawberries are 91% water, 8% carbohydrates, 1% protein.

The first garden strawberries were grown in France during the late 18th century. These were hybrids of two wild species from North America and Chile.

Strawberry picking season typically runs from late spring to early summer, depending on the region and climate. Peak strawberry season in the United States varies by region but generally falls between April and June. June is a good time to pick here in northern Ohio.

Strawberries are delicate and require careful handpicking to avoid bruising the fruit.
Pickers must choose ripe strawberries, which are fully red and have a glossy appearance. They should also be firm to the touch.
There are over 600 varieties of strawberries, each differing in flavor, size, and texture.
Some popular varieties include Albion, Seascape, and Chandler.

Many regions celebrate the strawberry harvest with festivals. These events often feature strawberry-themed foods, contests, and entertainment. One of the most famous is the California Strawberry Festival, held annually in Oxnard, California.

In the United States in 2021, the collective commercial production of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries was a $6 billion industry dominated by the California growing and marketing company Driscoll’s. In 2021, strawberries alone were a $3.5 billion market of which 82% was for fresh fruit.

The prior world’s heaviest strawberry was grown in Japan in 2015, weighing 250 grams (8.82 ounces).Click here to see the current record holder.

The longest strawberry shortcake ever made was created in the United States in 2004, measuring 1,368 meters (4,488 feet). Learn more HERE.

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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Thank You Fathers

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Happy Father’s Day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  :))))))))))))))

This Sunday is Father’s Day – celebrated to show appreciation and honor to fathers. It is time set aside to salute and express our adoration for every man who has poured his love into the lives of his children, thus positively affecting their lives forever. As a father, and a grandfather, I personally salute each and every father and take this opportunity to highlight and commend you for all you do. To all the “dads” out there, bravo!!  Thanks to cfaith.com for the inspirational words.

Some thoughts:

Fathers, thank you for loving your children and validating their sense of identity through unconditional love and support. Your love demonstrates their value and worth and provides a solid foundation for them to grow.

Fathers, thank you for your kind words, encouragement, discipline, and correction, helping to build character and self-esteem, and instill in children a sense of protection and safety.

Fathers, thank you for loving your children with your presence first and then with the things you provide. Young or old, kids feel important when you alter your busy schedule to make them a priority in your life.

Fathers, thank you for understanding the physical and emotional needs of your children. A father’s open affection toward his sons and daughters lets them know it’s acceptable to openly express their love for each other.

Fathers, thank you for telling your daughters how beautiful they are – it nourishes their souls and It says to her that she is revered as someone quite special!  I have certainly been blessed with my incredible daughters!

And, thanks to my Dad. I greatly appreciate the impact he made in my life., Things he taught me still influence me today. He taught me by example that a man does whatever he has to do, especially when it comes to providing for his wife and children. He taught me the importance of a father taking on the role of protector of the family. He taught me to remain in God’s grace always. And he taught me how to run a business, to guide and respect all those who work for and with me. I am forever grateful for the lessons Dad imparted into my life. I know he is watching down from above.

Finally, to the ultimate FATHER, you continue to play a critical role in my life, keeping me humble, thankful and in awe of your glory. I know fathers are the expression of God’s fatherly love for us all.

Fathers, I honor you. Happy Father’s Day!

 

 

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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Flag Day

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I love our flag. I really do!! The first official flag is there in the second image. It’s come a long way, baby. And it still resonates as the symbol of Freedom in this crazy world!!!

Next Friday marks a special day in American history – recognition of our American flag. That day, though not a federal holiday, is rich with history and tradition, showcasing the significance of the Stars and Stripes in American culture. We here at KHT Headquarters proudly fly an American flag in recognition of our country, and all those who have and currently serve our great nation. Thanks for Google and nationalflagfoundation.org for the info. Enjoy!

Flag Day in the United States, observed on June 14th, commemorates the adoption of the American flag by the Second Continental Congress in 1777.

The idea of celebrating Flag Day was first proposed by Bernard J. Cigrand, a school teacher from Wisconsin, in 1885. He held an observance of the flag’s birthday at the Stony Hill School.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14th as Flag Day. However, it wasn’t until August 3, 1949, that President Harry S. Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.

June 14th was chosen as it marks the anniversary of the 1777 resolution by the Second Continental Congress, which called for the design of the flag. The resolution read: “Resolved, That the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation.”

Each element of the flag holds symbolic meaning. The 13 stripes represent the original colonies, while the 50 stars represent the current states. The colors also carry significance: red symbolizes valor and bravery, white symbolizes purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

The original flag, known as the “Betsy Ross Flag,” featured 13 stars in a circle representing the original colonies. Over the years, the design of the flag changed to accommodate the admission of new states. The current 50-star flag was adopted on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii became a state.

The oldest continuous Flag Day parade is held in Fairfield, Washington, since 1909.

In Waubeka, Wisconsin, the birthplace of Bernard J. Cigrand, there are extensive celebrations including parades, music, and speeches. Waubeka is considered the “birthplace of Flag Day.”

Flag Day serves as a reminder of the importance of flag etiquette. The United States Flag Code outlines the proper ways to display and handle the flag. HERE  For instance, the flag should never touch the ground and should be illuminated if displayed at night.

On Flag Day, many American Legion posts and other organizations hold flag retirement ceremonies. When a flag is worn or damaged, it should be retired in a respectful manner, typically by burning in a dignified ceremony.

Throughout history, the American flag has played a pivotal role in national identity and pride. It was famously raised by Marines on Iwo Jima during World War II, an image that became an iconic symbol of American resolve. Flags are also used during burial ceremonies to honor veterans by draping over their caskets.

Colin Powell observance: “The flag represents the greatest nation on earth, and all of its citizens, of every race, creed, and color. It represents our collective belief in the freedoms and liberties guaranteed by our Constitution.”

The largest American Flag is known as The Superflag, created by Thomas “Ski” Demski, who holds the Guinness World Record for making the largest American flag.  Demski, a businessman from Long Beach, California, invested in creating this monumental flag as a symbol of patriotism. It measures 505 feet by 225 feet (total sq ft is approx. 113,625) and weighs approximately 3,000 pounds. It made its first major public appearance at the Hoover Dam on May 1, 1996, where it was unfurled to celebrate the dam’s 60th anniversary. Learn more

The Superflag stands as a testament to the enduring symbolism of the American flag and the lengths to which individuals will go to honor their country. Its sheer size and the logistical challenges involved in its display make it a remarkable feat of patriotic dedication.

Flag Day is a time for Americans to reflect on their history and the values symbolized by the flag. It serves as a reminder of the nation’s enduring principles of freedom, democracy, and unity. Through various celebrations and educational activities, Flag Day continues to foster a sense of national pride and respect for the American flag.
 

Flakey

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Who hasn’t enjoyed corn flakes? I’ve certainly had my share.  :))))))))))  In row six are brothers John & Wil Kellogg. If they could only see the cereal aisle today!!

Rise and shine. Up and at ‘em. Fall in. Giddyap Cowboy. Let’s Do This! So many ways to kick off your morning. And, of course, for so many, it includes a hot cup of Joe and a bowl of cereal.  For me most often I start my day with a smoothie (email me for my recipe skowalski@khtheat.com), but I will indulge in a bowl of cereal every now and then.  Today my favorite go to cereal is Cheerios Oat Crunch Cinnamon (my grandkids like it too!). Growing up, I loved Captain Crunch or Raisin Bran. There was also a special breakfast that consisted of Frosted Flakes, vanilla pudding, and fruit cocktail which to this day is amazing! . Today marks the day one (or two or three) inventors patented a flakey cereal we still enjoy.  I’m a huge fan of inventors – I’m surrounded by them every day, as they tackle your PIA (pain in the @%$) Jobs! Thanks to John, Ella and Will Kellogg, the breakfast cereal was born. Kellogg’s has a rich history, and their flaked cereal is no exception. Here are some fun history and facts about Kellogg’s flaked cereal. Special thanks to Google, Wikipedia and lekkanovaus.com for the info.  Enjoy!

A Million A Day – Cereal Production Video

Corn flakes, or cornflakes, are a breakfast cereal made from toasting flakes of corn (maize). Originally invented as a breakfast food to counter indigestion, it has become a popular food item in the American diet.

The development of the flaked cereal in 1894 has been variously described by John Kellogg, his wife Ella Eaton Kellogg, his younger brother Will, and other family members. There is considerable disagreement over who was involved in the discovery, and the role that they played. According to some accounts, Ella suggested rolling out the dough into thin sheets, and John developed a set of rollers for the purpose while Will said it was his idea from the start. (siblings – ha!).

According to John, he had the idea in a dream, and used equipment in his wife’s kitchen to do the rolling. It is generally agreed that upon being called out one night, John Kellogg left a batch of wheat-berry dough behind. Rather than throwing it out the next morning, he sent it through the rollers and was surprised to obtain delicate flakes, which could then be baked.

Will Kellogg was tasked with figuring out what had happened and worked to recreate the process reliably. Ella and Will were often at odds, and their versions of the story tend to minimize or deny each other’s involvement, while emphasizing their own. Tempering, the process the Kellogg’s had discovered, was to become a fundamental technique of the flaked cereal industry. Tempering is a favorite process here at KHT!!

A patent for “Flaked Cereals and Process of Preparing Same” was filed on May 31, 1895, and issued on April 14, 1896, to John Harvey Kellogg as Patent No. 558,393. Significantly, the patent applied to a variety of types of grains, not just to wheat. John Harvey Kellogg was the only person named on the patent. Will later insisted that he, not Ella, had worked with John, and repeatedly asserted that he should have received more credit than he was given for the discovery of the flaked cereal.

The flakes of grain, which the Kellogg brothers called Granose, were a very popular food among the patients at the Battle Creek Sanitarium. Learn More Years later, Kellogg’s expanded its line of flaked cereals to include various grains, such as rice, wheat, and oats, to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

In 1906, Will Keith Kellogg, who served as the business manager of the sanitarium, decided to try to mass-market the new food. At his new company, Battle Creek Toasted Corn Flake Company, he added sugar to the flakes to make them more palatable to a mass audience, but this caused a rift between his brother and him…surprised?

In 1907 his company ran an ad campaign which offered a free box of cereal to any woman who winked at her grocer (imagine that today?). To increase sales, in 1909 he added a special offer, the Funny Jungleland Moving Pictures Booklet, which was made available to anyone who bought two boxes of the cereal. This same premium was offered for 22 years.

At about the same time, Kellogg also began experimenting with new grain cereals to expand its product line. Rice Krispies, his next great hit, first went on sale in 1928. (one of my “go to” favorites!) Snap, Crackle, Pop!

There have been many mascots of Kellogg’s Cornflakes. The most popular one is a green rooster named Cornelius “Corny” Rooster, which has been the mascot since his debut. In early commercials, he would speak the catchphrase “Wake up, up, up to Kellogg’s Cornflakes!” Dallas McKennon and Andy Devine voiced him. Later, he stopped talking and simply crowed.  I personally think that Tony the Tiger is one of the best mascots ever – “ They’re Great”!) Commercials

See list of Top 20 Breakfast Cereals – (see how many you have eaten)

Kellogg’s flaked cereal has come a long way since its accidental invention, shaping not only the breakfast habits of millions but also becoming a part of global culture. Kellanova (formerly Kellogg’s) in 2022 had worldwide net sales around 15.3 billion U.S. dollars. Kellanova is a multinational consumer goods company with a focus on breakfast cereals and convenience foods. Learn more

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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Memorial Day

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