Not a damn thing changes. Despite moving to California, "land o' The Environment and a thousand smiles," I still find reminders of the oil industry. Rather, I'm reminded of the grip that the oil-and-chem industry has on the economy. This photo was taken just a few months ago, after Giao and I took a visit to the Jelly Belly factory just north of the bay.

On our way back, I forcefully suggested Giao take this picture of Richmond, CA. I admit to being confused by the apparently opposite directions of the smoke trails from the two stacks. This Texaco-Chevron refinery is responsible for the purification of the following compounds:

• Anhydrous ammonia
• Aqueous ammonia
• Hydrogen sulfide (I'm glad it wasn't just me)
• Sulfuric acid
• The ubiquitous "Flammables" (see here)

Despite the chemicals refined here, it actually is a beautiful site. Especially at sunset. I note that I have never once smelled fumes, despite Richmond being a scant 8 miles from my (so-called) castle.

Although I can't recall the last time I used anhydrous ammonia (a.k.a. dried cat urine) in the lab, I must admit it is nice to have a local supply of sulfuric acid. . .