Education, a local college professor observes, is one of those rare things that you buy and then want less of.
Even though we might get the news via the web or text message, we never quite outgrow that excitement of learning that school's been called off because of the snow.
... More at TelegramTowns.com
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Those magic words
Cross-post from my TelegramTowns blog : Those magic words
Those magic words
Cross-post from my TelegramTowns blog : Those magic words
Education, a local college professor observes, is one of those rare things that you buy and then want less of.
Even though we might get the news via the web or text message, we never quite outgrow that excitement of learning that school's been called off because of the snow.
... More at TelegramTowns.com
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
It is an unusual winter
While our impulse may be to say a) "Worst winter ever." or b) "This is an old-fashioned winter," there appears to be something unusual about this winter and last.
The Arctic polar vortex, a large and irregularly-shaped low pressure system, has shifted out of its typical location, pushing cold air first to Europe earlier in the season and now to us. The result is a blast of cold air. The other effect, however, is that parts of the Arctic are experiencing much warmer than normal temperatures. The late freeze of the ice cap is, as you might expect, impacting the lifestyles of animals and people who live in the high Arctic. You can read more in this New York Times article, Topsy-Turvy Weather - U.S. Is Frigid, and Arctic Warmer Than Usual .
We can't call this a result of global warming based on a couple of weird winters. We'll just say that the impact is noticeable.
For example, the North's most famous resident didn't even bother to go back home after his December extravaganza, finding the climate on Brattle Street much to his liking.
The Arctic polar vortex, a large and irregularly-shaped low pressure system, has shifted out of its typical location, pushing cold air first to Europe earlier in the season and now to us. The result is a blast of cold air. The other effect, however, is that parts of the Arctic are experiencing much warmer than normal temperatures. The late freeze of the ice cap is, as you might expect, impacting the lifestyles of animals and people who live in the high Arctic. You can read more in this New York Times article, Topsy-Turvy Weather - U.S. Is Frigid, and Arctic Warmer Than Usual .
We can't call this a result of global warming based on a couple of weird winters. We'll just say that the impact is noticeable.
For example, the North's most famous resident didn't even bother to go back home after his December extravaganza, finding the climate on Brattle Street much to his liking.
It is an unusual winter
While our impulse may be to say a) "Worst winter ever." or b) "This is an old-fashioned winter," there appears to be something unusual about this winter and last.
The Arctic polar vortex, a large and irregularly-shaped low pressure system, has shifted out of its typical location, pushing cold air first to Europe earlier in the season and now to us. The result is a blast of cold air. The other effect, however, is that parts of the Arctic are experiencing much warmer than normal temperatures. The late freeze of the ice cap is, as you might expect, impacting the lifestyles of animals and people who live in the high Arctic. You can read more in this New York Times article, Topsy-Turvy Weather - U.S. Is Frigid, and Arctic Warmer Than Usual .
We can't call this a result of global warming based on a couple of weird winters. We'll just say that the impact is noticeable.
For example, the North's most famous resident didn't even bother to go back home after his December extravaganza, finding the climate on Brattle Street much to his liking.
The Arctic polar vortex, a large and irregularly-shaped low pressure system, has shifted out of its typical location, pushing cold air first to Europe earlier in the season and now to us. The result is a blast of cold air. The other effect, however, is that parts of the Arctic are experiencing much warmer than normal temperatures. The late freeze of the ice cap is, as you might expect, impacting the lifestyles of animals and people who live in the high Arctic. You can read more in this New York Times article, Topsy-Turvy Weather - U.S. Is Frigid, and Arctic Warmer Than Usual .
We can't call this a result of global warming based on a couple of weird winters. We'll just say that the impact is noticeable.
For example, the North's most famous resident didn't even bother to go back home after his December extravaganza, finding the climate on Brattle Street much to his liking.
Crime in suburbia
From The Landmark (subscription required):
[Editor's note: There were 16 suspicious items this week.]
Holden
Monday, January 10
10:54 a.m. Call regarding snow on sidewalks near senior housing
11:30 a.m. Caller reports pet sitter took prescription drugs from home in West Boylston; advised to contact West Boylston PD
2:04 p.m. Firearm dropped off for disposal
5:11 p.m. Well-being check, Winfield Rd.; state police received call from resident about no hot water
Tuesday, January 11
10:42 a.m. Call regarding unlicensed animal
11:21 a.m. Rutland PD contacted about resident who fell in Holden and left before police arrived; advised to check well-being
2:54 p.m. Caller regarding state of emergency policies at her place of employment; advised to contact employer
4:22 p.m. Three kids in caller's back yard threatening to kill her dogs, had rifles, Wahlstrom Ln.
6:28 p.m. Man sitting in vehicle with head on steering wheel, Quinapoxet St.; OK, waiting for tow
6:55 p.m. Caller for info about trash pickup during storm
8:39 p.m. Caller reports small explosion in middle of road, Main St., lots of smoke
9:01 p.m. Vehicle with flat tire driving down Salisbury St.
Wednesday, January 12
2:47 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle; OK, new hearse at funeral home
5:54 a.m. Caller says motor vehicle is stuck on River St., not well plowed
7:06 a.m. Caller asking if power out on Industrial Dr.
7:10 a.m. Several inquiries regarding trash pickup today
7:43 a.m. Rutland caller inquiring about any van accidents in Holden; advised not
7:50 a.m. Caller inquiring whether individual is in custody
8:25 a.m. Shrewsbury St. caller reports dog outside in snow, not sure if owner is home
11:49 a.m. Loose dog in Bullard/Wachusett Sts. area
12:01 p.m. Caller from Price Chopper headquarters reporting questionable/suspicious letters from Holden resident
12:43 p.m. Vehicle lockout, Main St.
1:11 p.m. Verbally abusive female on Stoneleigh Rd. reported by DPW
3:52 p.m. Suspicious letter, Lowell Ave.
Thursday, January 13
1:02 a.m. Suspicious vehicle, Salisbury St., OK, moving snow
1:11 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Chapin Rd.
3:29 a.m. Caller inquiring about school district canceling school
1:48 p.m. State police report male in snow bank, Main St.
9:16 p.m. Suspicious incident at Grove Cemetery
9:40 p.m. ATM card stuck in machine
9:51 p.m. Suspicious female, Kendall Rd.
9:54 p.m. Repossession planned; paperwork dropped off
Friday, January 14
12:42 a.m. Report of loud music, Boyden Rd.
3:10 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle at business, Main St.; making package drop-off
3:36 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Main St.
3:43 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Reservoir St.
10:59 a.m. Walk-in to report slip-and-fall incident; wants to complain but not file report
11:07 a.m. Male in lobby inquiring about community service
11:21 a.m. 911 call about two dogs following woman, Old Broad St.; puppies in custody
2:27 p.m. Large truck went up street and ripped wires out of houses
3:22 p.m. Road rage incident, Pleasant St./Park Ave.
5:03 p.m. Suspicious vehicle abandoned in parking lot, Main St.; OK, owner located
5:43 p.m. Flashing red light noticed at residence, Twinbrooke Dr.; OK, vehicle hazards
6:11 p.m. Motor vehicle out of gas, Rte. 122; waiting for AAA
Saturday, January 15
3:53 a.m. Loud bang, Reservoir St.
8:27 a.m. Jacket found, Causeway St.
10:51 a.m. Vehicles parked across street making it difficult for resident to get out of driveway, Walnut St.
12:14 p.m. Individuals sitting in vehicle for more than an hour, Main St.; advised to move along
1:52 p.m. Caller advising of smoking wood pile at DPW; advised steam due to temperature, no fire
1:54 p.m. Caller wondering why officers are still sitting in front of his home
7:15 p.m. Male bicyclist on Rte. 122A N, wearing dark clothing
Sunday, January 16
2:27 a.m. Gathering on Unionville Pond, possible gunshots; small contained fire, parties will quiet down
10:24 a.m. Caller thanking officers whoresponded to sledding accident
2:05 p.m. Four-wheelers driving on road and beach, Hilltop Ave.; signs posted against such activity
4:04 p.m. Assist Shrewsbury PD in contacting Holden resident; not home, out watching the game
6:23 p.m. Loose white dog, Holden St.
Paxton
Monday, January 10
6:33 a.m. Vehicle off the road and on the pond ice at park, property damage, Richards Ave.
Tuesday, January 11
1:13 p.m. Person at station reporting a suspicious person driving up and down Howard St.
5:08 p.m. Basketball hoop in Crestwood Rd.
9:00 p.m. 911 hang-up; child playing with phone
Wednesday, January 12
7:46 a.m. Lost black and brown cat, William Allen Dr.
3:32 p.m. Male with large shotgun entering Boynton Park area, Mower St.
Thursday, January 13
7:57 a.m. Police assist motorist, Pleasant St.
7:43 p.m. Police transport female, Richards Ave.
Friday, January 14
1:42 p.m. Person at station to speak with officer, Pleasant St.
2:12 p.m. Two dogs running on Grove St.
6:20 p.m. Caller reports water pouring out of home, Camp St. Residents on several surrounding streets will be without water for a while
8:11 p.m. Vehicle lockout, Asnebumskit Rd.
Saturday, January 15
4:26 p.m. Two Labrador dogs ran off, West Ave.
Sunday, January 16
9:38 a.m. Person at station to pick up up vehicle parked in lot overnight, Pleasant St.
12:26 p.m. Road rage incident on Rte. 122 by Worcester line, vehicle traveling toward Paxton center
2:36 p.m. While person at church, her vehicle was struck
Princeton
Monday, January 10
11:17 a.m. Police transport female to her residence in Westminster
2:51 p.m. Request for traffic control, complaint about speeders, Ball Hill Rd.
3:10 p.m. Traffic control, Ball Hill Rd.
9:26 p.m. During a property check, police find people around the PMLD wind turbines, Westminster Rd.
Tuesday, January 11
4:55 p.m. Injured deer in roadway, Hubbardston Rd.
5:32 p.m. Missing dog, Calamint Hill Rd. N; later found
Thursday, January 13
3:10 p.m. Disabled bus blocking traffic. Police assist getting it started and then follow it to ski area, Mountain Rd.
8:40 p.m. Westminster PD requests assist with large fight in parking lot, Mountain Rd.
Friday, January 14
6:00 a.m. Traffic control, Ball Hill Rd.
7:32 p.m. Car alarm sounding, Hubbardston Rd.
9:59 p.m. Police transport person to Leominster
Saturday, January 15
2:33 a.m. Suspicious vehicle at side of road, Main St.; driver texting
11:25 a.m. Railroad crossing gates are stuck down due to snow piles, Hubbardston Rd.
Rutland
Monday, January 10
7:05 a.m. Records check, Main St.
11:45 a.m. Person locked out of building, Maple Ave.
1:39 p.m. Police follow disabled vehicle to station to wait for tow, Main St.
2:34 p.m. Person at station with attorney regarding business taken by bank, E. County Rd.
2:52 p.m. Request for welfare check on dog, Oakridge Dr.
6:43 p.m. Footprints in snow at each window around home, Prescott St.
Tuesday, January 11
11:20 a.m. Holden PD requests welfare check on elderly male that fell in parking lotnof business in Holden, Maple Ave.
Wednesday, January 12
7:47 a.m. Caller reports road hasn't beenplowed, Highland Park Rd.
8:00 a.m. Report that doughnut van driver is missing, Main St.; van & driver found
12:02 p.m. Snow plowed across road into areas recently shoveled, Summerhill Dr.
4:48 p.m. Report that plow driver is covering fire hydrant with snow
8:03 p.m. Caller concerned that last half of Maple Spring Dr. hasn't been plowed
Thursday, January 13
4:08 a.m. Assist Holden PD delivering message to person to call family member, Main St.
8:29 a.m. Loose horses blocking roadway and bus can't get through, E. County Rd./Bushy Ln.
9:46 a.m. Two-car accident, E. County Rd. Oakham animal control officer asked to pick up cats from one car
5:25 p.m. Police attempt to serve outstanding warrant, Maple Ave.; person no longer lives there, Maple Ave.
6:13 p.m. Motorist at station to report icy conditions, Kenwood Dr. Police investigate complaint, find road OK
Friday, January 14
1:30 p.m. Request for officer for female and young child locked out of their house and car, Prescott St.
2:40 p.m. Vehicle versus utility pole, Wachusett St. National Grid advised
4:08 p.m. Large snow bank is traffic safety issue, Sunnyside/Maple Aves.
Saturday, January 15
11:25 p.m. Request for assistance with vehicle lockout, Maple/Prescott Sts.
Sunday, January 16
5:12 p.m. Snowmobile speeding down middle of Pleasantdale Rd.
5:21 p.m. Police check out area, Prospect St./Irish Ln.
10:51 p.m. Someone rang caller's doorbell but no one there, Wachusett St.
Sterling
Monday, January 10
8:37 a.m. Animal control officer attempts to catch cat, Bean Rd.
10:55 a.m. Assist Holden PD, Dana Hill Rd.
12:12 p.m. Assist Holden PD, Rowley Hill Rd.
6:30 p.m. Person with foreclosure issues wants officer at house where neighbor is spray painting parts of the property, Wiles Rd.
Tuesday, January 11
11:25 a.m. Suspicious men, one carrying a shovel the other carrying a yellow stick. Found to be surveyors, Osgood/Pineview Rds.
2:08 p.m. Suspicious vehicle in driveway of home where people are away; oil service company performing work, Heywood Rd.
2:36 p.m. Scam call requesting money for family member in another country, Leominster Rd.
4:16 p.m. Officer wanted, caller concerned about fisherman on pond, Great Pond Way
Wednesday, January 12
1:12 a.m. Repossession agency to take vehicle, Redemption Rock Trl.
4:24 p.m. Report of disabled vehicle. Person out sledding, advised not to park on roadway, Muddy Pond Rd.
5:05 p.m. Stranded trucks, Industrial Dr. Roadway not plowed.
Thursday, January 13
6:11 p.m. Assist citizen, wife in accident in Leominster
10:25 p.m. Assist Westminster PD looking for vehicle whose occupant just stole snowboard from ski area, Redemption Rock Trl./Merrill Rd. Vehicle stopped, snowboard ditched, occupants will be summoned by Westminster PD
Friday, January 14
12:28 a.m. Suspicious vehicle, Rugg Rd.
2:16 p.m. Officer wanted, caller had issue with payment at gas station, Leominster Rd.
10:30 p.m. Person returned home and found large Caterpillar in his front yard, unsure who owns equipment, Cynthia Ln.
Saturday, January 15
1:35 p.m. Officer wanted to assist at funeral procession, Worcester Rd.
6:33 p.m. Person at station regarding stolen front-end loader, Leominster Rd.
[Editor's note: There were 16 suspicious items this week.]
Holden
Monday, January 10
10:54 a.m. Call regarding snow on sidewalks near senior housing
11:30 a.m. Caller reports pet sitter took prescription drugs from home in West Boylston; advised to contact West Boylston PD
2:04 p.m. Firearm dropped off for disposal
5:11 p.m. Well-being check, Winfield Rd.; state police received call from resident about no hot water
Tuesday, January 11
10:42 a.m. Call regarding unlicensed animal
11:21 a.m. Rutland PD contacted about resident who fell in Holden and left before police arrived; advised to check well-being
2:54 p.m. Caller regarding state of emergency policies at her place of employment; advised to contact employer
4:22 p.m. Three kids in caller's back yard threatening to kill her dogs, had rifles, Wahlstrom Ln.
6:28 p.m. Man sitting in vehicle with head on steering wheel, Quinapoxet St.; OK, waiting for tow
6:55 p.m. Caller for info about trash pickup during storm
8:39 p.m. Caller reports small explosion in middle of road, Main St., lots of smoke
9:01 p.m. Vehicle with flat tire driving down Salisbury St.
Wednesday, January 12
2:47 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle; OK, new hearse at funeral home
5:54 a.m. Caller says motor vehicle is stuck on River St., not well plowed
7:06 a.m. Caller asking if power out on Industrial Dr.
7:10 a.m. Several inquiries regarding trash pickup today
7:43 a.m. Rutland caller inquiring about any van accidents in Holden; advised not
7:50 a.m. Caller inquiring whether individual is in custody
8:25 a.m. Shrewsbury St. caller reports dog outside in snow, not sure if owner is home
11:49 a.m. Loose dog in Bullard/Wachusett Sts. area
12:01 p.m. Caller from Price Chopper headquarters reporting questionable/suspicious letters from Holden resident
12:43 p.m. Vehicle lockout, Main St.
1:11 p.m. Verbally abusive female on Stoneleigh Rd. reported by DPW
3:52 p.m. Suspicious letter, Lowell Ave.
Thursday, January 13
1:02 a.m. Suspicious vehicle, Salisbury St., OK, moving snow
1:11 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Chapin Rd.
3:29 a.m. Caller inquiring about school district canceling school
1:48 p.m. State police report male in snow bank, Main St.
9:16 p.m. Suspicious incident at Grove Cemetery
9:40 p.m. ATM card stuck in machine
9:51 p.m. Suspicious female, Kendall Rd.
9:54 p.m. Repossession planned; paperwork dropped off
Friday, January 14
12:42 a.m. Report of loud music, Boyden Rd.
3:10 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle at business, Main St.; making package drop-off
3:36 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Main St.
3:43 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Reservoir St.
10:59 a.m. Walk-in to report slip-and-fall incident; wants to complain but not file report
11:07 a.m. Male in lobby inquiring about community service
11:21 a.m. 911 call about two dogs following woman, Old Broad St.; puppies in custody
2:27 p.m. Large truck went up street and ripped wires out of houses
3:22 p.m. Road rage incident, Pleasant St./Park Ave.
5:03 p.m. Suspicious vehicle abandoned in parking lot, Main St.; OK, owner located
5:43 p.m. Flashing red light noticed at residence, Twinbrooke Dr.; OK, vehicle hazards
6:11 p.m. Motor vehicle out of gas, Rte. 122; waiting for AAA
Saturday, January 15
3:53 a.m. Loud bang, Reservoir St.
8:27 a.m. Jacket found, Causeway St.
10:51 a.m. Vehicles parked across street making it difficult for resident to get out of driveway, Walnut St.
12:14 p.m. Individuals sitting in vehicle for more than an hour, Main St.; advised to move along
1:52 p.m. Caller advising of smoking wood pile at DPW; advised steam due to temperature, no fire
1:54 p.m. Caller wondering why officers are still sitting in front of his home
7:15 p.m. Male bicyclist on Rte. 122A N, wearing dark clothing
Sunday, January 16
2:27 a.m. Gathering on Unionville Pond, possible gunshots; small contained fire, parties will quiet down
10:24 a.m. Caller thanking officers whoresponded to sledding accident
2:05 p.m. Four-wheelers driving on road and beach, Hilltop Ave.; signs posted against such activity
4:04 p.m. Assist Shrewsbury PD in contacting Holden resident; not home, out watching the game
6:23 p.m. Loose white dog, Holden St.
Paxton
Monday, January 10
6:33 a.m. Vehicle off the road and on the pond ice at park, property damage, Richards Ave.
Tuesday, January 11
1:13 p.m. Person at station reporting a suspicious person driving up and down Howard St.
5:08 p.m. Basketball hoop in Crestwood Rd.
9:00 p.m. 911 hang-up; child playing with phone
Wednesday, January 12
7:46 a.m. Lost black and brown cat, William Allen Dr.
3:32 p.m. Male with large shotgun entering Boynton Park area, Mower St.
Thursday, January 13
7:57 a.m. Police assist motorist, Pleasant St.
7:43 p.m. Police transport female, Richards Ave.
Friday, January 14
1:42 p.m. Person at station to speak with officer, Pleasant St.
2:12 p.m. Two dogs running on Grove St.
6:20 p.m. Caller reports water pouring out of home, Camp St. Residents on several surrounding streets will be without water for a while
8:11 p.m. Vehicle lockout, Asnebumskit Rd.
Saturday, January 15
4:26 p.m. Two Labrador dogs ran off, West Ave.
Sunday, January 16
9:38 a.m. Person at station to pick up up vehicle parked in lot overnight, Pleasant St.
12:26 p.m. Road rage incident on Rte. 122 by Worcester line, vehicle traveling toward Paxton center
2:36 p.m. While person at church, her vehicle was struck
Princeton
Monday, January 10
11:17 a.m. Police transport female to her residence in Westminster
2:51 p.m. Request for traffic control, complaint about speeders, Ball Hill Rd.
3:10 p.m. Traffic control, Ball Hill Rd.
9:26 p.m. During a property check, police find people around the PMLD wind turbines, Westminster Rd.
Tuesday, January 11
4:55 p.m. Injured deer in roadway, Hubbardston Rd.
5:32 p.m. Missing dog, Calamint Hill Rd. N; later found
Thursday, January 13
3:10 p.m. Disabled bus blocking traffic. Police assist getting it started and then follow it to ski area, Mountain Rd.
8:40 p.m. Westminster PD requests assist with large fight in parking lot, Mountain Rd.
Friday, January 14
6:00 a.m. Traffic control, Ball Hill Rd.
7:32 p.m. Car alarm sounding, Hubbardston Rd.
9:59 p.m. Police transport person to Leominster
Saturday, January 15
2:33 a.m. Suspicious vehicle at side of road, Main St.; driver texting
11:25 a.m. Railroad crossing gates are stuck down due to snow piles, Hubbardston Rd.
Rutland
Monday, January 10
7:05 a.m. Records check, Main St.
11:45 a.m. Person locked out of building, Maple Ave.
1:39 p.m. Police follow disabled vehicle to station to wait for tow, Main St.
2:34 p.m. Person at station with attorney regarding business taken by bank, E. County Rd.
2:52 p.m. Request for welfare check on dog, Oakridge Dr.
6:43 p.m. Footprints in snow at each window around home, Prescott St.
Tuesday, January 11
11:20 a.m. Holden PD requests welfare check on elderly male that fell in parking lotnof business in Holden, Maple Ave.
Wednesday, January 12
7:47 a.m. Caller reports road hasn't beenplowed, Highland Park Rd.
8:00 a.m. Report that doughnut van driver is missing, Main St.; van & driver found
12:02 p.m. Snow plowed across road into areas recently shoveled, Summerhill Dr.
4:48 p.m. Report that plow driver is covering fire hydrant with snow
8:03 p.m. Caller concerned that last half of Maple Spring Dr. hasn't been plowed
Thursday, January 13
4:08 a.m. Assist Holden PD delivering message to person to call family member, Main St.
8:29 a.m. Loose horses blocking roadway and bus can't get through, E. County Rd./Bushy Ln.
9:46 a.m. Two-car accident, E. County Rd. Oakham animal control officer asked to pick up cats from one car
5:25 p.m. Police attempt to serve outstanding warrant, Maple Ave.; person no longer lives there, Maple Ave.
6:13 p.m. Motorist at station to report icy conditions, Kenwood Dr. Police investigate complaint, find road OK
Friday, January 14
1:30 p.m. Request for officer for female and young child locked out of their house and car, Prescott St.
2:40 p.m. Vehicle versus utility pole, Wachusett St. National Grid advised
4:08 p.m. Large snow bank is traffic safety issue, Sunnyside/Maple Aves.
Saturday, January 15
11:25 p.m. Request for assistance with vehicle lockout, Maple/Prescott Sts.
Sunday, January 16
5:12 p.m. Snowmobile speeding down middle of Pleasantdale Rd.
5:21 p.m. Police check out area, Prospect St./Irish Ln.
10:51 p.m. Someone rang caller's doorbell but no one there, Wachusett St.
Sterling
Monday, January 10
8:37 a.m. Animal control officer attempts to catch cat, Bean Rd.
10:55 a.m. Assist Holden PD, Dana Hill Rd.
12:12 p.m. Assist Holden PD, Rowley Hill Rd.
6:30 p.m. Person with foreclosure issues wants officer at house where neighbor is spray painting parts of the property, Wiles Rd.
Tuesday, January 11
11:25 a.m. Suspicious men, one carrying a shovel the other carrying a yellow stick. Found to be surveyors, Osgood/Pineview Rds.
2:08 p.m. Suspicious vehicle in driveway of home where people are away; oil service company performing work, Heywood Rd.
2:36 p.m. Scam call requesting money for family member in another country, Leominster Rd.
4:16 p.m. Officer wanted, caller concerned about fisherman on pond, Great Pond Way
Wednesday, January 12
1:12 a.m. Repossession agency to take vehicle, Redemption Rock Trl.
4:24 p.m. Report of disabled vehicle. Person out sledding, advised not to park on roadway, Muddy Pond Rd.
5:05 p.m. Stranded trucks, Industrial Dr. Roadway not plowed.
Thursday, January 13
6:11 p.m. Assist citizen, wife in accident in Leominster
10:25 p.m. Assist Westminster PD looking for vehicle whose occupant just stole snowboard from ski area, Redemption Rock Trl./Merrill Rd. Vehicle stopped, snowboard ditched, occupants will be summoned by Westminster PD
Friday, January 14
12:28 a.m. Suspicious vehicle, Rugg Rd.
2:16 p.m. Officer wanted, caller had issue with payment at gas station, Leominster Rd.
10:30 p.m. Person returned home and found large Caterpillar in his front yard, unsure who owns equipment, Cynthia Ln.
Saturday, January 15
1:35 p.m. Officer wanted to assist at funeral procession, Worcester Rd.
6:33 p.m. Person at station regarding stolen front-end loader, Leominster Rd.
Crime in suburbia
From The Landmark (subscription required):
[Editor's note: There were 16 suspicious items this week.]
Holden
Monday, January 10
10:54 a.m. Call regarding snow on sidewalks near senior housing
11:30 a.m. Caller reports pet sitter took prescription drugs from home in West Boylston; advised to contact West Boylston PD
2:04 p.m. Firearm dropped off for disposal
5:11 p.m. Well-being check, Winfield Rd.; state police received call from resident about no hot water
Tuesday, January 11
10:42 a.m. Call regarding unlicensed animal
11:21 a.m. Rutland PD contacted about resident who fell in Holden and left before police arrived; advised to check well-being
2:54 p.m. Caller regarding state of emergency policies at her place of employment; advised to contact employer
4:22 p.m. Three kids in caller's back yard threatening to kill her dogs, had rifles, Wahlstrom Ln.
6:28 p.m. Man sitting in vehicle with head on steering wheel, Quinapoxet St.; OK, waiting for tow
6:55 p.m. Caller for info about trash pickup during storm
8:39 p.m. Caller reports small explosion in middle of road, Main St., lots of smoke
9:01 p.m. Vehicle with flat tire driving down Salisbury St.
Wednesday, January 12
2:47 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle; OK, new hearse at funeral home
5:54 a.m. Caller says motor vehicle is stuck on River St., not well plowed
7:06 a.m. Caller asking if power out on Industrial Dr.
7:10 a.m. Several inquiries regarding trash pickup today
7:43 a.m. Rutland caller inquiring about any van accidents in Holden; advised not
7:50 a.m. Caller inquiring whether individual is in custody
8:25 a.m. Shrewsbury St. caller reports dog outside in snow, not sure if owner is home
11:49 a.m. Loose dog in Bullard/Wachusett Sts. area
12:01 p.m. Caller from Price Chopper headquarters reporting questionable/suspicious letters from Holden resident
12:43 p.m. Vehicle lockout, Main St.
1:11 p.m. Verbally abusive female on Stoneleigh Rd. reported by DPW
3:52 p.m. Suspicious letter, Lowell Ave.
Thursday, January 13
1:02 a.m. Suspicious vehicle, Salisbury St., OK, moving snow
1:11 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Chapin Rd.
3:29 a.m. Caller inquiring about school district canceling school
1:48 p.m. State police report male in snow bank, Main St.
9:16 p.m. Suspicious incident at Grove Cemetery
9:40 p.m. ATM card stuck in machine
9:51 p.m. Suspicious female, Kendall Rd.
9:54 p.m. Repossession planned; paperwork dropped off
Friday, January 14
12:42 a.m. Report of loud music, Boyden Rd.
3:10 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle at business, Main St.; making package drop-off
3:36 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Main St.
3:43 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Reservoir St.
10:59 a.m. Walk-in to report slip-and-fall incident; wants to complain but not file report
11:07 a.m. Male in lobby inquiring about community service
11:21 a.m. 911 call about two dogs following woman, Old Broad St.; puppies in custody
2:27 p.m. Large truck went up street and ripped wires out of houses
3:22 p.m. Road rage incident, Pleasant St./Park Ave.
5:03 p.m. Suspicious vehicle abandoned in parking lot, Main St.; OK, owner located
5:43 p.m. Flashing red light noticed at residence, Twinbrooke Dr.; OK, vehicle hazards
6:11 p.m. Motor vehicle out of gas, Rte. 122; waiting for AAA
Saturday, January 15
3:53 a.m. Loud bang, Reservoir St.
8:27 a.m. Jacket found, Causeway St.
10:51 a.m. Vehicles parked across street making it difficult for resident to get out of driveway, Walnut St.
12:14 p.m. Individuals sitting in vehicle for more than an hour, Main St.; advised to move along
1:52 p.m. Caller advising of smoking wood pile at DPW; advised steam due to temperature, no fire
1:54 p.m. Caller wondering why officers are still sitting in front of his home
7:15 p.m. Male bicyclist on Rte. 122A N, wearing dark clothing
Sunday, January 16
2:27 a.m. Gathering on Unionville Pond, possible gunshots; small contained fire, parties will quiet down
10:24 a.m. Caller thanking officers whoresponded to sledding accident
2:05 p.m. Four-wheelers driving on road and beach, Hilltop Ave.; signs posted against such activity
4:04 p.m. Assist Shrewsbury PD in contacting Holden resident; not home, out watching the game
6:23 p.m. Loose white dog, Holden St.
Paxton
Monday, January 10
6:33 a.m. Vehicle off the road and on the pond ice at park, property damage, Richards Ave.
Tuesday, January 11
1:13 p.m. Person at station reporting a suspicious person driving up and down Howard St.
5:08 p.m. Basketball hoop in Crestwood Rd.
9:00 p.m. 911 hang-up; child playing with phone
Wednesday, January 12
7:46 a.m. Lost black and brown cat, William Allen Dr.
3:32 p.m. Male with large shotgun entering Boynton Park area, Mower St.
Thursday, January 13
7:57 a.m. Police assist motorist, Pleasant St.
7:43 p.m. Police transport female, Richards Ave.
Friday, January 14
1:42 p.m. Person at station to speak with officer, Pleasant St.
2:12 p.m. Two dogs running on Grove St.
6:20 p.m. Caller reports water pouring out of home, Camp St. Residents on several surrounding streets will be without water for a while
8:11 p.m. Vehicle lockout, Asnebumskit Rd.
Saturday, January 15
4:26 p.m. Two Labrador dogs ran off, West Ave.
Sunday, January 16
9:38 a.m. Person at station to pick up up vehicle parked in lot overnight, Pleasant St.
12:26 p.m. Road rage incident on Rte. 122 by Worcester line, vehicle traveling toward Paxton center
2:36 p.m. While person at church, her vehicle was struck
Princeton
Monday, January 10
11:17 a.m. Police transport female to her residence in Westminster
2:51 p.m. Request for traffic control, complaint about speeders, Ball Hill Rd.
3:10 p.m. Traffic control, Ball Hill Rd.
9:26 p.m. During a property check, police find people around the PMLD wind turbines, Westminster Rd.
Tuesday, January 11
4:55 p.m. Injured deer in roadway, Hubbardston Rd.
5:32 p.m. Missing dog, Calamint Hill Rd. N; later found
Thursday, January 13
3:10 p.m. Disabled bus blocking traffic. Police assist getting it started and then follow it to ski area, Mountain Rd.
8:40 p.m. Westminster PD requests assist with large fight in parking lot, Mountain Rd.
Friday, January 14
6:00 a.m. Traffic control, Ball Hill Rd.
7:32 p.m. Car alarm sounding, Hubbardston Rd.
9:59 p.m. Police transport person to Leominster
Saturday, January 15
2:33 a.m. Suspicious vehicle at side of road, Main St.; driver texting
11:25 a.m. Railroad crossing gates are stuck down due to snow piles, Hubbardston Rd.
Rutland
Monday, January 10
7:05 a.m. Records check, Main St.
11:45 a.m. Person locked out of building, Maple Ave.
1:39 p.m. Police follow disabled vehicle to station to wait for tow, Main St.
2:34 p.m. Person at station with attorney regarding business taken by bank, E. County Rd.
2:52 p.m. Request for welfare check on dog, Oakridge Dr.
6:43 p.m. Footprints in snow at each window around home, Prescott St.
Tuesday, January 11
11:20 a.m. Holden PD requests welfare check on elderly male that fell in parking lotnof business in Holden, Maple Ave.
Wednesday, January 12
7:47 a.m. Caller reports road hasn't beenplowed, Highland Park Rd.
8:00 a.m. Report that doughnut van driver is missing, Main St.; van & driver found
12:02 p.m. Snow plowed across road into areas recently shoveled, Summerhill Dr.
4:48 p.m. Report that plow driver is covering fire hydrant with snow
8:03 p.m. Caller concerned that last half of Maple Spring Dr. hasn't been plowed
Thursday, January 13
4:08 a.m. Assist Holden PD delivering message to person to call family member, Main St.
8:29 a.m. Loose horses blocking roadway and bus can't get through, E. County Rd./Bushy Ln.
9:46 a.m. Two-car accident, E. County Rd. Oakham animal control officer asked to pick up cats from one car
5:25 p.m. Police attempt to serve outstanding warrant, Maple Ave.; person no longer lives there, Maple Ave.
6:13 p.m. Motorist at station to report icy conditions, Kenwood Dr. Police investigate complaint, find road OK
Friday, January 14
1:30 p.m. Request for officer for female and young child locked out of their house and car, Prescott St.
2:40 p.m. Vehicle versus utility pole, Wachusett St. National Grid advised
4:08 p.m. Large snow bank is traffic safety issue, Sunnyside/Maple Aves.
Saturday, January 15
11:25 p.m. Request for assistance with vehicle lockout, Maple/Prescott Sts.
Sunday, January 16
5:12 p.m. Snowmobile speeding down middle of Pleasantdale Rd.
5:21 p.m. Police check out area, Prospect St./Irish Ln.
10:51 p.m. Someone rang caller's doorbell but no one there, Wachusett St.
Sterling
Monday, January 10
8:37 a.m. Animal control officer attempts to catch cat, Bean Rd.
10:55 a.m. Assist Holden PD, Dana Hill Rd.
12:12 p.m. Assist Holden PD, Rowley Hill Rd.
6:30 p.m. Person with foreclosure issues wants officer at house where neighbor is spray painting parts of the property, Wiles Rd.
Tuesday, January 11
11:25 a.m. Suspicious men, one carrying a shovel the other carrying a yellow stick. Found to be surveyors, Osgood/Pineview Rds.
2:08 p.m. Suspicious vehicle in driveway of home where people are away; oil service company performing work, Heywood Rd.
2:36 p.m. Scam call requesting money for family member in another country, Leominster Rd.
4:16 p.m. Officer wanted, caller concerned about fisherman on pond, Great Pond Way
Wednesday, January 12
1:12 a.m. Repossession agency to take vehicle, Redemption Rock Trl.
4:24 p.m. Report of disabled vehicle. Person out sledding, advised not to park on roadway, Muddy Pond Rd.
5:05 p.m. Stranded trucks, Industrial Dr. Roadway not plowed.
Thursday, January 13
6:11 p.m. Assist citizen, wife in accident in Leominster
10:25 p.m. Assist Westminster PD looking for vehicle whose occupant just stole snowboard from ski area, Redemption Rock Trl./Merrill Rd. Vehicle stopped, snowboard ditched, occupants will be summoned by Westminster PD
Friday, January 14
12:28 a.m. Suspicious vehicle, Rugg Rd.
2:16 p.m. Officer wanted, caller had issue with payment at gas station, Leominster Rd.
10:30 p.m. Person returned home and found large Caterpillar in his front yard, unsure who owns equipment, Cynthia Ln.
Saturday, January 15
1:35 p.m. Officer wanted to assist at funeral procession, Worcester Rd.
6:33 p.m. Person at station regarding stolen front-end loader, Leominster Rd.
[Editor's note: There were 16 suspicious items this week.]
Holden
Monday, January 10
10:54 a.m. Call regarding snow on sidewalks near senior housing
11:30 a.m. Caller reports pet sitter took prescription drugs from home in West Boylston; advised to contact West Boylston PD
2:04 p.m. Firearm dropped off for disposal
5:11 p.m. Well-being check, Winfield Rd.; state police received call from resident about no hot water
Tuesday, January 11
10:42 a.m. Call regarding unlicensed animal
11:21 a.m. Rutland PD contacted about resident who fell in Holden and left before police arrived; advised to check well-being
2:54 p.m. Caller regarding state of emergency policies at her place of employment; advised to contact employer
4:22 p.m. Three kids in caller's back yard threatening to kill her dogs, had rifles, Wahlstrom Ln.
6:28 p.m. Man sitting in vehicle with head on steering wheel, Quinapoxet St.; OK, waiting for tow
6:55 p.m. Caller for info about trash pickup during storm
8:39 p.m. Caller reports small explosion in middle of road, Main St., lots of smoke
9:01 p.m. Vehicle with flat tire driving down Salisbury St.
Wednesday, January 12
2:47 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle; OK, new hearse at funeral home
5:54 a.m. Caller says motor vehicle is stuck on River St., not well plowed
7:06 a.m. Caller asking if power out on Industrial Dr.
7:10 a.m. Several inquiries regarding trash pickup today
7:43 a.m. Rutland caller inquiring about any van accidents in Holden; advised not
7:50 a.m. Caller inquiring whether individual is in custody
8:25 a.m. Shrewsbury St. caller reports dog outside in snow, not sure if owner is home
11:49 a.m. Loose dog in Bullard/Wachusett Sts. area
12:01 p.m. Caller from Price Chopper headquarters reporting questionable/suspicious letters from Holden resident
12:43 p.m. Vehicle lockout, Main St.
1:11 p.m. Verbally abusive female on Stoneleigh Rd. reported by DPW
3:52 p.m. Suspicious letter, Lowell Ave.
Thursday, January 13
1:02 a.m. Suspicious vehicle, Salisbury St., OK, moving snow
1:11 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Chapin Rd.
3:29 a.m. Caller inquiring about school district canceling school
1:48 p.m. State police report male in snow bank, Main St.
9:16 p.m. Suspicious incident at Grove Cemetery
9:40 p.m. ATM card stuck in machine
9:51 p.m. Suspicious female, Kendall Rd.
9:54 p.m. Repossession planned; paperwork dropped off
Friday, January 14
12:42 a.m. Report of loud music, Boyden Rd.
3:10 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle at business, Main St.; making package drop-off
3:36 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Main St.
3:43 a.m. Suspicious motor vehicle, Reservoir St.
10:59 a.m. Walk-in to report slip-and-fall incident; wants to complain but not file report
11:07 a.m. Male in lobby inquiring about community service
11:21 a.m. 911 call about two dogs following woman, Old Broad St.; puppies in custody
2:27 p.m. Large truck went up street and ripped wires out of houses
3:22 p.m. Road rage incident, Pleasant St./Park Ave.
5:03 p.m. Suspicious vehicle abandoned in parking lot, Main St.; OK, owner located
5:43 p.m. Flashing red light noticed at residence, Twinbrooke Dr.; OK, vehicle hazards
6:11 p.m. Motor vehicle out of gas, Rte. 122; waiting for AAA
Saturday, January 15
3:53 a.m. Loud bang, Reservoir St.
8:27 a.m. Jacket found, Causeway St.
10:51 a.m. Vehicles parked across street making it difficult for resident to get out of driveway, Walnut St.
12:14 p.m. Individuals sitting in vehicle for more than an hour, Main St.; advised to move along
1:52 p.m. Caller advising of smoking wood pile at DPW; advised steam due to temperature, no fire
1:54 p.m. Caller wondering why officers are still sitting in front of his home
7:15 p.m. Male bicyclist on Rte. 122A N, wearing dark clothing
Sunday, January 16
2:27 a.m. Gathering on Unionville Pond, possible gunshots; small contained fire, parties will quiet down
10:24 a.m. Caller thanking officers whoresponded to sledding accident
2:05 p.m. Four-wheelers driving on road and beach, Hilltop Ave.; signs posted against such activity
4:04 p.m. Assist Shrewsbury PD in contacting Holden resident; not home, out watching the game
6:23 p.m. Loose white dog, Holden St.
Paxton
Monday, January 10
6:33 a.m. Vehicle off the road and on the pond ice at park, property damage, Richards Ave.
Tuesday, January 11
1:13 p.m. Person at station reporting a suspicious person driving up and down Howard St.
5:08 p.m. Basketball hoop in Crestwood Rd.
9:00 p.m. 911 hang-up; child playing with phone
Wednesday, January 12
7:46 a.m. Lost black and brown cat, William Allen Dr.
3:32 p.m. Male with large shotgun entering Boynton Park area, Mower St.
Thursday, January 13
7:57 a.m. Police assist motorist, Pleasant St.
7:43 p.m. Police transport female, Richards Ave.
Friday, January 14
1:42 p.m. Person at station to speak with officer, Pleasant St.
2:12 p.m. Two dogs running on Grove St.
6:20 p.m. Caller reports water pouring out of home, Camp St. Residents on several surrounding streets will be without water for a while
8:11 p.m. Vehicle lockout, Asnebumskit Rd.
Saturday, January 15
4:26 p.m. Two Labrador dogs ran off, West Ave.
Sunday, January 16
9:38 a.m. Person at station to pick up up vehicle parked in lot overnight, Pleasant St.
12:26 p.m. Road rage incident on Rte. 122 by Worcester line, vehicle traveling toward Paxton center
2:36 p.m. While person at church, her vehicle was struck
Princeton
Monday, January 10
11:17 a.m. Police transport female to her residence in Westminster
2:51 p.m. Request for traffic control, complaint about speeders, Ball Hill Rd.
3:10 p.m. Traffic control, Ball Hill Rd.
9:26 p.m. During a property check, police find people around the PMLD wind turbines, Westminster Rd.
Tuesday, January 11
4:55 p.m. Injured deer in roadway, Hubbardston Rd.
5:32 p.m. Missing dog, Calamint Hill Rd. N; later found
Thursday, January 13
3:10 p.m. Disabled bus blocking traffic. Police assist getting it started and then follow it to ski area, Mountain Rd.
8:40 p.m. Westminster PD requests assist with large fight in parking lot, Mountain Rd.
Friday, January 14
6:00 a.m. Traffic control, Ball Hill Rd.
7:32 p.m. Car alarm sounding, Hubbardston Rd.
9:59 p.m. Police transport person to Leominster
Saturday, January 15
2:33 a.m. Suspicious vehicle at side of road, Main St.; driver texting
11:25 a.m. Railroad crossing gates are stuck down due to snow piles, Hubbardston Rd.
Rutland
Monday, January 10
7:05 a.m. Records check, Main St.
11:45 a.m. Person locked out of building, Maple Ave.
1:39 p.m. Police follow disabled vehicle to station to wait for tow, Main St.
2:34 p.m. Person at station with attorney regarding business taken by bank, E. County Rd.
2:52 p.m. Request for welfare check on dog, Oakridge Dr.
6:43 p.m. Footprints in snow at each window around home, Prescott St.
Tuesday, January 11
11:20 a.m. Holden PD requests welfare check on elderly male that fell in parking lotnof business in Holden, Maple Ave.
Wednesday, January 12
7:47 a.m. Caller reports road hasn't beenplowed, Highland Park Rd.
8:00 a.m. Report that doughnut van driver is missing, Main St.; van & driver found
12:02 p.m. Snow plowed across road into areas recently shoveled, Summerhill Dr.
4:48 p.m. Report that plow driver is covering fire hydrant with snow
8:03 p.m. Caller concerned that last half of Maple Spring Dr. hasn't been plowed
Thursday, January 13
4:08 a.m. Assist Holden PD delivering message to person to call family member, Main St.
8:29 a.m. Loose horses blocking roadway and bus can't get through, E. County Rd./Bushy Ln.
9:46 a.m. Two-car accident, E. County Rd. Oakham animal control officer asked to pick up cats from one car
5:25 p.m. Police attempt to serve outstanding warrant, Maple Ave.; person no longer lives there, Maple Ave.
6:13 p.m. Motorist at station to report icy conditions, Kenwood Dr. Police investigate complaint, find road OK
Friday, January 14
1:30 p.m. Request for officer for female and young child locked out of their house and car, Prescott St.
2:40 p.m. Vehicle versus utility pole, Wachusett St. National Grid advised
4:08 p.m. Large snow bank is traffic safety issue, Sunnyside/Maple Aves.
Saturday, January 15
11:25 p.m. Request for assistance with vehicle lockout, Maple/Prescott Sts.
Sunday, January 16
5:12 p.m. Snowmobile speeding down middle of Pleasantdale Rd.
5:21 p.m. Police check out area, Prospect St./Irish Ln.
10:51 p.m. Someone rang caller's doorbell but no one there, Wachusett St.
Sterling
Monday, January 10
8:37 a.m. Animal control officer attempts to catch cat, Bean Rd.
10:55 a.m. Assist Holden PD, Dana Hill Rd.
12:12 p.m. Assist Holden PD, Rowley Hill Rd.
6:30 p.m. Person with foreclosure issues wants officer at house where neighbor is spray painting parts of the property, Wiles Rd.
Tuesday, January 11
11:25 a.m. Suspicious men, one carrying a shovel the other carrying a yellow stick. Found to be surveyors, Osgood/Pineview Rds.
2:08 p.m. Suspicious vehicle in driveway of home where people are away; oil service company performing work, Heywood Rd.
2:36 p.m. Scam call requesting money for family member in another country, Leominster Rd.
4:16 p.m. Officer wanted, caller concerned about fisherman on pond, Great Pond Way
Wednesday, January 12
1:12 a.m. Repossession agency to take vehicle, Redemption Rock Trl.
4:24 p.m. Report of disabled vehicle. Person out sledding, advised not to park on roadway, Muddy Pond Rd.
5:05 p.m. Stranded trucks, Industrial Dr. Roadway not plowed.
Thursday, January 13
6:11 p.m. Assist citizen, wife in accident in Leominster
10:25 p.m. Assist Westminster PD looking for vehicle whose occupant just stole snowboard from ski area, Redemption Rock Trl./Merrill Rd. Vehicle stopped, snowboard ditched, occupants will be summoned by Westminster PD
Friday, January 14
12:28 a.m. Suspicious vehicle, Rugg Rd.
2:16 p.m. Officer wanted, caller had issue with payment at gas station, Leominster Rd.
10:30 p.m. Person returned home and found large Caterpillar in his front yard, unsure who owns equipment, Cynthia Ln.
Saturday, January 15
1:35 p.m. Officer wanted to assist at funeral procession, Worcester Rd.
6:33 p.m. Person at station regarding stolen front-end loader, Leominster Rd.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Obligatory cold weather post
We're all torqued because of the temperature of an 18th century woman's armpit.
The temperature scale that we use in the U.S. has, as one of its reference points, the body temperature of one Wilma Fahrenheit, wife of physicist Daniel Fahrenheit. The number at the other end of the scale, 0°, is the freezing temperature of brine. Given the importance that we attach to this temperature scale, Fahrenheit used a goofy calculus to set the numbers that are so familiar to us.
The result is that, when the temperature falls to and below 0°F, we think much more about the cold. Adding the wind, as we will this evening, the outdoors can become dangerous. Mercifully, I haven't had to spend long times outside in the cold, except by choice, for many decades. The homeless and wanderers, they really do need to find shelter tonight.
Last night we walked to and from a dinner at the church in our neighborhood. The air was calm, letting the cold settle at the low points of the road. It was like walking into a pool, the shock of the change in just 30 or so feet of elevation.
This evening, though, with the wind, the air gets all mixed up. There won't be much difference in the temperature readings from high places or low, but the wind will get us to the air temperature much faster.
The United States is the only country that uses the Fahrenheit scale and that needs to deal with such low numbers. To understand the Centigrade scale, folks often turn to this ditty:
The temperature scale that we use in the U.S. has, as one of its reference points, the body temperature of one Wilma Fahrenheit, wife of physicist Daniel Fahrenheit. The number at the other end of the scale, 0°, is the freezing temperature of brine. Given the importance that we attach to this temperature scale, Fahrenheit used a goofy calculus to set the numbers that are so familiar to us.
The result is that, when the temperature falls to and below 0°F, we think much more about the cold. Adding the wind, as we will this evening, the outdoors can become dangerous. Mercifully, I haven't had to spend long times outside in the cold, except by choice, for many decades. The homeless and wanderers, they really do need to find shelter tonight. Last night we walked to and from a dinner at the church in our neighborhood. The air was calm, letting the cold settle at the low points of the road. It was like walking into a pool, the shock of the change in just 30 or so feet of elevation.
This evening, though, with the wind, the air gets all mixed up. There won't be much difference in the temperature readings from high places or low, but the wind will get us to the air temperature much faster.
The United States is the only country that uses the Fahrenheit scale and that needs to deal with such low numbers. To understand the Centigrade scale, folks often turn to this ditty:
Thirty's hot.To which I humbly add:
Twenty's pleasing.
Ten is cool.s
and Zero's freezing.
Minus Ten is cold.
Minus Twenty has a bite.
Minus Thirty's ridiculous.
And Minus Forty's the same as Fahrenheit.
Obligatory cold weather post
We're all torqued because of the temperature of an 18th century woman's armpit.
The temperature scale that we use in the U.S. has, as one of its reference points, the body temperature of one Wilma Fahrenheit, wife of physicist Daniel Fahrenheit. The number at the other end of the scale, 0°, is the freezing temperature of brine. Given the importance that we attach to this temperature scale, Fahrenheit used a goofy calculus to set the numbers that are so familiar to us.
The result is that, when the temperature falls to and below 0°F, we think much more about the cold. Adding the wind, as we will this evening, the outdoors can become dangerous. Mercifully, I haven't had to spend long times outside in the cold, except by choice, for many decades. The homeless and wanderers, they really do need to find shelter tonight.
Last night we walked to and from a dinner at the church in our neighborhood. The air was calm, letting the cold settle at the low points of the road. It was like walking into a pool, the shock of the change in just 30 or so feet of elevation.
This evening, though, with the wind, the air gets all mixed up. There won't be much difference in the temperature readings from high places or low, but the wind will get us to the air temperature much faster.
The United States is the only country that uses the Fahrenheit scale and that needs to deal with such low numbers. To understand the Centigrade scale, folks often turn to this ditty:
The temperature scale that we use in the U.S. has, as one of its reference points, the body temperature of one Wilma Fahrenheit, wife of physicist Daniel Fahrenheit. The number at the other end of the scale, 0°, is the freezing temperature of brine. Given the importance that we attach to this temperature scale, Fahrenheit used a goofy calculus to set the numbers that are so familiar to us.
The result is that, when the temperature falls to and below 0°F, we think much more about the cold. Adding the wind, as we will this evening, the outdoors can become dangerous. Mercifully, I haven't had to spend long times outside in the cold, except by choice, for many decades. The homeless and wanderers, they really do need to find shelter tonight. Last night we walked to and from a dinner at the church in our neighborhood. The air was calm, letting the cold settle at the low points of the road. It was like walking into a pool, the shock of the change in just 30 or so feet of elevation.
This evening, though, with the wind, the air gets all mixed up. There won't be much difference in the temperature readings from high places or low, but the wind will get us to the air temperature much faster.
The United States is the only country that uses the Fahrenheit scale and that needs to deal with such low numbers. To understand the Centigrade scale, folks often turn to this ditty:
Thirty's hot.To which I humbly add:
Twenty's pleasing.
Ten is cool.s
and Zero's freezing.
Minus Ten is cold.
Minus Twenty has a bite.
Minus Thirty's ridiculous.
And Minus Forty's the same as Fahrenheit.
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