Thursday, December 20, 2018

Mr. B enjoys a mug and awaits the winter solstice



Where is Altria headed?
The Associated Press reports Altria, one the world’s biggest tobacco companies, purchased
a $12.8 billion stake in Juul, an e-vaping business. I’ll be interested in
seeing where this goes. Earlier in the week, Altria announced the
company is looking at entering the legal marijuana industry.
Juul will remain an independent company but will have access
to Altria’s distribution network, according to the AP. With cigarettes
sales on a steady decline, it's not difficult to imagine what might
be in the works at Altria.

Check out that moon
If you venture outside Dec. 21 be sure to take a few minutes to look
up and view the full moon that will mark the Winter Solstice. The full
moon will be at its height Dec. 22, according to the Farmers' Almanac, so you will have a second opportunity.

Some food for thought
The Farmers' Almanac also offers some advice about the foods we might offer to birds during
the winter months. There are some interesting suggestions on the list,
and I might try a few, including the fruit. I typically offer a mix I purchase
at a local grocer. It is reasonably priced and attracts a variety of birds during
winter. I most frequently see finches at the feeder, but have observed cardinals
and a one or two blue jays. Of course, squirrels and rabbits also visit the
area beneath the feeder, but I enjoy watching those critters as well.

Keep an eye on the polar vortex
Northern Illinois has enjoyed a calm December, at least as far as the weather
is concerned, with daytime temperatures (low 40s) above normal this week and
nighttime lows ranging from the upper 20s to mid-30s. But Ag Week reminds us to pay attention to the polar vortex, particularly in late January
and early February, when a shift in the polar vortex could push temperatures to
zero or below. I have resided in the Midwest most of my life and expect
cold conditions during the winter months, not that I enjoy them. I prefer cold
to snow and have learned a few tricks that help me endure deep freezes.
The local weather crews tell us we can expect in a dry, unseasonably warm
Christmas Day, but to look for changing conditions, including snow, next week.
I always enjoy talking weather, so feel free to send an email with details about
conditions near you.

--Thank you for reading. Email comments to kbotterman@gmail.com.

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