GIGA GRANADA HILLS

The March 12 issue of New Scientist offers an explanation of doomsday cult thinking in an article by psychologist Richard Wiseman: "In 1954, psychologist Leon Festinger of the University of Minnesota investigated a cult in Chicago that was convinced that the end of the world was nigh. The leader, Dorothy Martin, prophesied that there would be a great flood on 21 December and that a flying saucer would rescue her and her follower just before disaster occurred. Festinger had several observers infiltrate the group and record what happened. As the appointed time approached, the members were buoyant and worked hard to spread word of the impending catastrophe. However, when 21 December came and went without any flooding or extraterrestrial visitation the mood changed. Did the group suddenly change its beliefs in the face of overwhelming evidence? No. Instead, members concluded that they must have averted the cataclysm by spreading the word. Festinger's investigation led him to...

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There are so many things that are right about this video — deeply, deeply right — that I'm not even sure where to begin. Just watch it and see if you don't agree that Granada Hills needs more men who are willing to get this dirty and wet.

It's nearly all regulars in here. A steady trickle of customers comes in the doors all morning long, yet Ninong's is never crowded. It's spacious, friendly, and quiet, and owner Amorfina Tica -- better known as "Amy" -- greets just about everyone like a familiar friend. One taste of the coffee here lets you know you're not at the mermaid chain; there's none of the over-roasted, over-aggressive notes, and no baseball-bat-to-the-head of caffeine. The coffee just treats you nicely, which is all I want from the world on most mornings. Amid the expected coffeehouse offerings — espressos, croissants, and the like — you can find several uniquely Filipino/uniquely Ninong's offerings. There's the create-a-cupcake, with your choice of sprinkles, to delight the kiddies. Then there's the empanadas, including longanisa, a Filipino sausage. Ninong's is also a full-service bakery with a full breakfast and lunch menu, and cute little breakfast plac...

From the Numero Uno Granada Hills Facebook page: Numero Uno Granada Hills Hello Numero Uno Granada Hills Fans! We are setting up a Streetside Stand on our patio tonight (Friday 3/18), in response to the horde of food trucks that are trying to take over our street. Please come by and check it out, or preferably dine in. We will be allowing entrance and parking through the back, since parking in front will be d ... ifficult. Y...our loyalty is appreciated, without you there is no us. Thanks to Pat Walsh for the tip.

"The Chicken" Drum Solo Jim Xavier  |  Myspace Video "Time Machine" plays oldies from Steely Dan, Zep, Beck, Weezer, Bowie, Floyd, Petty, Marley, etc. 9-1:30 at Oh Grady's Lounge.