Today is August 13, 2023. Another heat advisory is in effect for central Florida today. We’re going to have a “feels like” 115-degree afternoon. I plan to stay in airconditioned spaces today while I contemplate how nice it is to have air conditioning. I take little solace in the realization that this year will be cooler than next year. On this day we can celebrate Gay Uncle’s Day, International Lefthander’s Day, Melon Day, National Filet Mignon Day, National Prosecco Day, and (drum roll)…. Air Conditioning Appreciation Days which run from July 3 until August 15. Now a few facts from our past: Cortes captured the Aztec Emperor Cauauhtemoc on this day in 1521 marking the end of the Aztec Empire. On this day in 1784 the British parliament accepted East India Company Act bringing the East India Company’s rule of India under the control of the British. Think about that for a second. A corporation used its commercial power and its private army to conquer India and take control of the country. On this day in 1792 the revolutionaries imprisoned the French royals including Marie Antoninette. On this day in 1907 the 1st taxicabs began operating in New York City. This is the day in 1914 that Carl Wickman began the Greyhound Bus company in Minnesota. The US Steel Corp. went to the 8-hour workday on this day in 1923. The Manhattan Project began on this day in 1942. Elvis Presley released “Don’t Be Cruel” on this day in 1956. Today’s inspiration comes from the late great Julia Child who said, “The best way to execute French cooking is to get good and loaded and whack the hell out of a chicken.” “How lovely life can be if one takes time to be friendly.” “People who love to eat are always the best people.” “With enough butter, anything is good.” “I enjoy cooking with wine, sometimes I even put it in the food I’m cooking.” “The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.” “Always start out with a larger pot than what you think you need.” Last one: “Fat gives things flavor.” Abide.