A Blog About Anything & Everything.
Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Monday, December 30, 2019
Sunday, December 29, 2019
How FOX News Controls What Gets Reported
WARNING: Foul Language.
You’re watching Fox News.
You just don’t know it
Like em' or not they are good at what they do. They set the bar... the rest follow. However according to 'Business Wire' (12/11/2019) "FOX News Channel (FNC) notched its highest-rated year in primetime in its 23-year history with 2.5 million viewers...". So in the grand scheme of things even combined these news shows are only watched by less then 1% of the American population. That being the case I suppose it's no big deal since 320 million aren't watching any of these news channels.
Hell even Trump has only 68 million followers. Meaning over 250 million could care less what any of them have to say. Less then half of the population bothered voting in 2016. Perhaps politics won't be on my front burner in 2020. These are things I need to consider going forward.
You just don’t know it
Like em' or not they are good at what they do. They set the bar... the rest follow. However according to 'Business Wire' (12/11/2019) "FOX News Channel (FNC) notched its highest-rated year in primetime in its 23-year history with 2.5 million viewers...". So in the grand scheme of things even combined these news shows are only watched by less then 1% of the American population. That being the case I suppose it's no big deal since 320 million aren't watching any of these news channels.
Hell even Trump has only 68 million followers. Meaning over 250 million could care less what any of them have to say. Less then half of the population bothered voting in 2016. Perhaps politics won't be on my front burner in 2020. These are things I need to consider going forward.
Idea For A New Musical (REPOST)
Are there any visionaries out there? Imagine this show tied in with a toy manufacture! I do realize shows these days run $10-11 million on Broadway. That’s why perhaps one of the big toy manufacturers should think about what this could mean. Imagine ELMO reintroduced with electronic modifications to today's demand for the newer toys.
About Flahooley
My Video Interpretation
Friday, December 27, 2019
COPPA Spell The End For YouTube As We Know It?
YouTube will be greatly impacted like never before under the FTC's Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA) starting January 2020.
A number of people have already deleted their videos. The folks who depend on monetizing their videos will be impacted the most. Not only are their videos in question but the very ads that appear on them as well (which they have no control over). Meaning they'd have to give up their advertising revenue completely or risk getting fined. Thus the quality of YouTube will be greatly diminished.
Music videos as well a video game screen grabs could be subject to nearly a $42,000 fine for each deemed unfit for children (whatever that means). Same could apply to many of mine on YouTube. Even if you mark them for adults only doesn't let you off the hook. Who knows how many on this blog I linked to could be in violation as well.
I seriously believe two things are going on here. In my opinion this isn't about kids. Forget about the so-called 'nanny state'. This isn't about that. Rather it's about raking in huge amounts dough for the government. For years governments all over the world have been hitting Google with millions of dollars in fines so they can line their coffers. This gives them one more excuse to not only whack Google but now it users as well.
The second reason is more sinister. When the FTC deems what is appropriate and is not begins to crack the door open towards government censorship. If the FTC gets away with this it could be only the beginning.
As for me I will monitor this closely come 2020. I dread the decisions I may have to make as our government seeks to exercise greater and greater control over all things. We were promised less regulations by this president. COPPA is NOT heading in that direction to be sure.
Uploaded Nov 18, 2019
(The deadline 12/09/2919 has passed for comments to the FTC)
LINK TO : COPPA and YouTube: Answering Your Top Questions (12/17/2019)
LINK TO: COPPA @ The Federal Trade Commission
Federal Trade Commission (09/04/2019)
Google and YouTube Will Pay Record $170 Million for Alleged Violations of Children’s Privacy Law "In addition to the monetary penalty, the proposed settlement requires Google and YouTube to develop, implement, and maintain a system that permits channel owners to identify their child-directed content on the YouTube platform so that YouTube can ensure it is complying with COPPA. In addition, the companies must notify channel owners that their child-directed content may be subject to the COPPA Rule’s obligations..."
A number of people have already deleted their videos. The folks who depend on monetizing their videos will be impacted the most. Not only are their videos in question but the very ads that appear on them as well (which they have no control over). Meaning they'd have to give up their advertising revenue completely or risk getting fined. Thus the quality of YouTube will be greatly diminished.
Music videos as well a video game screen grabs could be subject to nearly a $42,000 fine for each deemed unfit for children (whatever that means). Same could apply to many of mine on YouTube. Even if you mark them for adults only doesn't let you off the hook. Who knows how many on this blog I linked to could be in violation as well.
I seriously believe two things are going on here. In my opinion this isn't about kids. Forget about the so-called 'nanny state'. This isn't about that. Rather it's about raking in huge amounts dough for the government. For years governments all over the world have been hitting Google with millions of dollars in fines so they can line their coffers. This gives them one more excuse to not only whack Google but now it users as well.
The second reason is more sinister. When the FTC deems what is appropriate and is not begins to crack the door open towards government censorship. If the FTC gets away with this it could be only the beginning.
As for me I will monitor this closely come 2020. I dread the decisions I may have to make as our government seeks to exercise greater and greater control over all things. We were promised less regulations by this president. COPPA is NOT heading in that direction to be sure.
(The deadline 12/09/2919 has passed for comments to the FTC)
LINK TO : COPPA and YouTube: Answering Your Top Questions (12/17/2019)
LINK TO: COPPA @ The Federal Trade Commission
Google and YouTube Will Pay Record $170 Million for Alleged Violations of Children’s Privacy Law
Thursday, December 26, 2019
Are Broadway's Best Years Behind It?
Looking over upcoming shows it appears they've become more like concert performances rather then great theater. Will 2020 bring us any outstanding original musicals? It seems most of what is in store are rewrites based on previous rock tunes, movies or revivals of the long gone great composers and lyricists from the past.
Some of Broadway's best Performances
Here's one show I'd like to see come to Broadway.
Notre Dame de Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris (the musical) was performed since 1998 in 23 countries. Never on Broadway. It has 53 musical numbers. It tells the sad story of the three men who loved the gypsy dancer Esmeralda and lost her to death.
Notre Dame de Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris (the musical) was performed since 1998 in 23 countries. Never on Broadway. It has 53 musical numbers. It tells the sad story of the three men who loved the gypsy dancer Esmeralda and lost her to death.
Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Bobby Vinton's Kissin' Christmas LIVE (1996)
I really wanted to watch Bobby Vinton's Branson Christmas special from 1996. That's when I realized it's no where to be found. So I decided to dig into my archives and load some of it here. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. What a talented guy. He ought to re-release a DVD of it. Better yet a TV Special maybe on PBS.
Clips From Bobby Vinton's Kissin' Christmas Show 1996 LIVE
Monday, December 23, 2019
Sunday, December 22, 2019
Amazon e-mail Scam Alert
There have been several different versions of this scam over the years. All of them have one thing in common.. they want you to call a phony number. Like any other phishing attack no one should ever reply. If someone wants to check out their account they should use their internet' browser's bookmarks to log in. This applies to any emails not just those from Amazon.
This also applies to phone calls. Always dial the number on your bill or login.
Saturday, December 21, 2019
Thursday, December 19, 2019
My Answer Machine Took Another Scam Call
A woman thinking she was speaking to someone said, "This is the awards department. Can you hear me?"
It's an oldie but goodie. If you say yes it's being recorded. Usually it's some company looking to switch your utility, telephone provider or something similar. Your saying yes gives them go ahead to do whatever they're looking to do. In other words you inadvertently gave your consent verbally.
It's called TELEPHONE SLAMMING (Wikipedia). Don't fall for it.
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Two Senators Already Planning To Violate Their Oath
Both Lindsey Graham ("I'm not trying to pretend to be a fair juror here") and Mitch McConnell ("I'm not impartial") made themselves very clear publicly several times how they will vote. It wouldn't surprise me if Senate Democrats made a motion to disqualify these two individuals at the beginning of the Senate hearing. Oh the motion may not pass because the Republicans hold the majority. BUT what these two declared before the hearing begins will forever be on record Could there be others?
Depends whether Justice Roberts will allow the motion or if it's even made.
Depends whether Justice Roberts will allow the motion or if it's even made.
Monday, December 16, 2019
Patriots Football Try To Pull A Fast One?
FOX SPORTS EXCLUSIVE: @JayGlazer reveals footage of Patriots filming Bengals. pic.twitter.com/C7U7mopaEm
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) December 15, 2019
How come other teams don't seem to have these problems?
Mandatory Minimums Being Abused By Prosecutors?
Prosecutors have options for what charges they wish to pursue. Are some prosecutors imposing charges they know carry minim mandatory sentences in order to get the accused to plea to lesser charges, which do not, in order to make their record look good for getting a large number of convictions? As a result a number of innocents could end up in jail.
Defendants already are at a disadvantage. Many do not have the re$ources to pay the additional court cost$ for a trial by jury and lawyers who require large upfront fees.
Something else I personally seen. Cops sitting around chewing the fat with justices they've come before numerous times until the person they've charged arrives.
I'm also familiar with a guy who dated an assistant DA. Agreed he gave her some crap but let's just say this, after the breakup it didn't go well for him.
Defendants already are at a disadvantage. Many do not have the re$ources to pay the additional court cost$ for a trial by jury and lawyers who require large upfront fees.
Something else I personally seen. Cops sitting around chewing the fat with justices they've come before numerous times until the person they've charged arrives.
I'm also familiar with a guy who dated an assistant DA. Agreed he gave her some crap but let's just say this, after the breakup it didn't go well for him.
Snopes Setting The Record Straight
Every year FOX News pulls this. It's one thing to spin the news. Another to make shit up.
Sunday, December 15, 2019
Robot Appreciates The Help
I envision a day in the future when a FedEx, USPS or UPS truck pulls up. Unleashes dozens of these rascals from the back of the truck. All the driver has to do is wait for them to come back after making deliveries all at the same time. Something a delivery driver never could do. Assuming these trucks would even need a driver :-)
Avoid Route 22
Another couple of accidents yesterday. In my opinion if your daily commute involves the Lehigh Valley section of route 22 you'd be wise to avoid using it. Oh it might save 15 or 20 minutes but you'd be better off leaving 15 or 20 minutes earlier using some other streets and roads. Beats getting stuck between exits in where accidents have become a daily occurrence.
Some may say it increases the chances of getting hit somewhere else. Well it's healthier then getting slammed at 60+ mph or waiting in line for hours. If there is an accident lots of other options are available getting around them. I'd avoid the I78 section of 309 as well.
When I used to work I felt a lot less stress. Often times I'd mix it up and take various different routes. Traveling via 22 or 309 my whole focus was on traffic. These others allowed me to relax and enjoy the ride before and after work. I can't think of a time I got stuck behind an accident scene without having the ability to turn off avoiding it. More then I can say for some of my fellow workers who insisted on using these major traffic arteries.
There were about a half a dozen back roads I used between Allentown and Fogelsville. Most of them taken care of better in the winter then Pennsylvania's highways. As I bonus other then a school bus here and there I almost never encountered a tractor trailer. A lot safer if you have a breakdown too.
Anyone have any thoughts they want to share?
Some may say it increases the chances of getting hit somewhere else. Well it's healthier then getting slammed at 60+ mph or waiting in line for hours. If there is an accident lots of other options are available getting around them. I'd avoid the I78 section of 309 as well.
When I used to work I felt a lot less stress. Often times I'd mix it up and take various different routes. Traveling via 22 or 309 my whole focus was on traffic. These others allowed me to relax and enjoy the ride before and after work. I can't think of a time I got stuck behind an accident scene without having the ability to turn off avoiding it. More then I can say for some of my fellow workers who insisted on using these major traffic arteries.
There were about a half a dozen back roads I used between Allentown and Fogelsville. Most of them taken care of better in the winter then Pennsylvania's highways. As I bonus other then a school bus here and there I almost never encountered a tractor trailer. A lot safer if you have a breakdown too.
Anyone have any thoughts they want to share?
Saturday, December 14, 2019
Hallmark Pulls Commercial Of Brides Kissing
Hallmark pulls Zola commercial of brides kissing after conservative group calls for boycott
So What. We all know Hallmark's stick. All their movies are the same. Boy meets girl. Girl meets boy... PERIOD!
Ye gads.if someone has a problem with this go watch one of the other 300 streaming or cable channels. It makes we question why a sponsor would consider wasting their money pitching to a group of viewers who most likely it won't appeal to.
Could it just be they pulled this stunt to get all this valuable free publicity? I wouldn't be surprised if they amped up this so-called conservative group's so-called boycott. Folks it called VIRAL marketing (or as I like to call it rope-a-dope). People get paid lots of money for this very thing. Looks like they'll reap many times the publicity without the ad even airing.
My Bad :-(
Thursday, December 12, 2019
Bernie Sanders Helped Rescue This Vet
‘When brave people like John put their lives on the line to defend our country … they will receive the best quality health care’ — @BernieSanders helped rescue this veteran from crushing medical debt pic.twitter.com/CbVqSN7Cim
— NowThis (@nowthisnews) December 12, 2019
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
I've Been Following Britain's Brexit
Here's the conclusion I've reached.One big advantage the U'K has is if they don't like what one prime minister is doing they simply get rid of them and appoint a new one. No need for impeachment. Course on the other hand it's hard to keep up with who's leading the country from one week to the next. Sometimes the Queen has to approve things. Sometimes she doesn't. Kind of makes one wonder how England managed to survive this chaos over centuries.
But through out it all...
Here's who I'll miss the most (John Bercow).
He was the speaker of the House Of Commons.
He's been replaced by SIR Lindsay Hoyle.
Face it C-Span's coverage of the U.S. House is boring as hell. It wouldn't be nearly so if our own congress was as rowdy as England's. Bet it would get much better larger ratings if this crew were carrying on the business of the people under the dome.
I can only imagine what conservatives would think of Bercow being in charge rather then Pelosi. I also wonder how smoothly things would go if instead of impeachment congress was empowered to replace Trump midterm. England removed Theresa May and replaced her with Boris Johnson. Now there's talk of 'snap elections' to replace Boris who only assumed office on July 24, 2019. Throughout it's history England had 83 prime ministers come and go. Some lasted as little as two years. Yet England manages to go on. So too would United States although you'd never know it with the way Republicans are carrying on.
But through out it all...
He was the speaker of the House Of Commons.
He's been replaced by SIR Lindsay Hoyle.
Face it C-Span's coverage of the U.S. House is boring as hell. It wouldn't be nearly so if our own congress was as rowdy as England's. Bet it would get much better larger ratings if this crew were carrying on the business of the people under the dome.
I can only imagine what conservatives would think of Bercow being in charge rather then Pelosi. I also wonder how smoothly things would go if instead of impeachment congress was empowered to replace Trump midterm. England removed Theresa May and replaced her with Boris Johnson. Now there's talk of 'snap elections' to replace Boris who only assumed office on July 24, 2019. Throughout it's history England had 83 prime ministers come and go. Some lasted as little as two years. Yet England manages to go on. So too would United States although you'd never know it with the way Republicans are carrying on.
Saturday, December 7, 2019
Radio Prank That Went Terribly Wrong
I was going through some of my old files and came across this gem from several years ago.
WARNING: Foul Language
OOPS :-(
OOPS :-(
PMJ Band- Stacy's Mom
According to THE OFFICAL PMJ BAND WEBSITE March they'll be in York and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Unfortunately this is about as close as they will get to the Lehigh Valley. As far as I know they've never been here. What a shame. I consider these performers some of the most talented I've seen.
Friday, December 6, 2019
Bunch Of Random Thoughts (12/06/2019)
There was a shooting where a Saudi aviation student killed three on our Pensacola Naval air base. I'm not going to say a lot about this other then Saudi Arabia isn't exactly trustworthy given what happened on 9-11 and a whole bunch of incidents since.
Without fail no matter what subjects I post the ones on Trump end up stressful for me having to debate endlessly on things I never mentioned. Perhaps in the future I'll simply post my thoughts singularly on him disallowing comments. It frustrates me to post about several things and the one people seem to care about is arguing over Trump. Starting with this one I will not allow further comment regarding him. Currently my Trump posts are receiving 5x's more views then any of the others There's a lot of stuff that requires more attention.
The house passed a bill the senate is expected to approve against robo-calls. I'm up to my neck in them several times a day annoying me. What a pain in the ass. No my chimney doesn't need cleaning. The IRS is not coming after me. My credit card wasn't hacked. My 29 year old van's warranty isn't about to expire. Neither is Microsoft going to charge me $299 on my credit card for services. The other four or five hang ups apparently aren't that important either. And I most certainly am not calling myself from that same phone. Anything I have to say to myself I already heard from the voices in my head. They needn't bother to inform me of the free cruise I might have won. Just send the tickets and we'll go from there. If some sheriff might come and arrest me for something.. you know where I live. Wanna save me money on my electric bill? Send somebody over with free solar panels.
I installed Norton internet security years ago so I wouldn't get malware. Seems to me popping up once or twice a day on my desktop bugging me IS MALWARE itself. I'm trying to do a disk image backup which takes 90% of my memory/ Norton thinks it's a good time to do some intensive background task. Go away!
Do I want to leave feedback on some website? Well maybe you ought to let me see what I came for before asking.
My package is coming at the end of the day. Where is it? Oh now it's changed.. still in transit. Thanks for the info. Maybe tomorrow. Maybe not. Maybe they'll ring the doorbell. Maybe not. It could even end up at the same number address on a different street one block away.
It may come a bit late in the year but the IRS recommends workers fill out a new W4 form to more accurately reflect their situation. Otherwise the expected refunds may not materialize. The main problem seems to be if a couple earns less then $25,000 each there won't be enough withheld when they file jointly on the $50,000 they earned together. If you didn't do it, oh well there's always next year.
Good news most of next year's local property taxes aren't going up. On the other hand we were promised if we allowed state gambling games they'd go down. Then promised if casino slots were approved we'd be sitting pretty. Then table games. Now it marijuana sales. Still waiting. Will increased sales tax finally do the trick? How about legal prostitution?
Huge numbers of people view these posts but only one or two people end up commenting. What's with that?
Without fail no matter what subjects I post the ones on Trump end up stressful for me having to debate endlessly on things I never mentioned. Perhaps in the future I'll simply post my thoughts singularly on him disallowing comments. It frustrates me to post about several things and the one people seem to care about is arguing over Trump. Starting with this one I will not allow further comment regarding him. Currently my Trump posts are receiving 5x's more views then any of the others There's a lot of stuff that requires more attention.
The house passed a bill the senate is expected to approve against robo-calls. I'm up to my neck in them several times a day annoying me. What a pain in the ass. No my chimney doesn't need cleaning. The IRS is not coming after me. My credit card wasn't hacked. My 29 year old van's warranty isn't about to expire. Neither is Microsoft going to charge me $299 on my credit card for services. The other four or five hang ups apparently aren't that important either. And I most certainly am not calling myself from that same phone. Anything I have to say to myself I already heard from the voices in my head. They needn't bother to inform me of the free cruise I might have won. Just send the tickets and we'll go from there. If some sheriff might come and arrest me for something.. you know where I live. Wanna save me money on my electric bill? Send somebody over with free solar panels.
I installed Norton internet security years ago so I wouldn't get malware. Seems to me popping up once or twice a day on my desktop bugging me IS MALWARE itself. I'm trying to do a disk image backup which takes 90% of my memory/ Norton thinks it's a good time to do some intensive background task. Go away!
Do I want to leave feedback on some website? Well maybe you ought to let me see what I came for before asking.
My package is coming at the end of the day. Where is it? Oh now it's changed.. still in transit. Thanks for the info. Maybe tomorrow. Maybe not. Maybe they'll ring the doorbell. Maybe not. It could even end up at the same number address on a different street one block away.
It may come a bit late in the year but the IRS recommends workers fill out a new W4 form to more accurately reflect their situation. Otherwise the expected refunds may not materialize. The main problem seems to be if a couple earns less then $25,000 each there won't be enough withheld when they file jointly on the $50,000 they earned together. If you didn't do it, oh well there's always next year.
Good news most of next year's local property taxes aren't going up. On the other hand we were promised if we allowed state gambling games they'd go down. Then promised if casino slots were approved we'd be sitting pretty. Then table games. Now it marijuana sales. Still waiting. Will increased sales tax finally do the trick? How about legal prostitution?
Huge numbers of people view these posts but only one or two people end up commenting. What's with that?
Monday, December 2, 2019
Bunch Of Random Thoughts (12/02/2019)
I see a couple of streaming services are no longer going to support certain older smart TV models. So much for cutting the cord if you're forced to buy a new TV whenever they decide. In the long run this cost a lot more.
If I were a rich man-- I'd only take as much as I can use to live a comfortable life. Nobody (I mean nobody) has needs for millions a year. I sincerely would be more then happy with a nice house debt free and a couple buck$ left over to enjoy. More then that I'd find individuals on my own who could use some help. Maybe bail them from medical debt or someone working their butt off and getting nowhere. Forget churches organizations where usually leaders are making a living more then decent off of them.
What's a non-profit? There's a hellva lot of rich churches, hospitals and research organizations that own vast properties and whom it's hired help are well compensated. IMO nearly half are legal scams to avoid paying taxes.
Pennsylvania has one of the largest number of legislators who are paid almost the highest in the nation for the 70 days they're in session. I wonder if there were none for a year or two if anyone would ever miss them?
To be honest I know I'm out of the loop but can anyone else name three movies or hit songs these top award show gatherers performed? Speaking of TV concerts, etc. anyone else notice how producers edit in audience screams to every damn performance? Watch mouths closely. Lots of clapping.. few mouths open. They also like to focus on a avid bunch but look in the background and you will see lots more unenthusiastic as they in the foreground.
The next president-- I don't like any of them. You mean out of 300+ millions this is all we can come up with? Where are the reasonable minds? Each seem to be trying to outdo the other's radical ideas on both sides. Most of their ideas don't mean squat anyways unless congress approves their crazy plans. A do nothing congress? Maybe not such a bad thing. Besides with all the appeals and lawsuits it seems the judicial system ends up making most the decisions these days.
Be honest, how many shopping for Christmas are buying crap for somebody else.
ROPE A DOPE-- How has any of these so called 'smart' thingies made life more simplified or cheaper to use?
UPDATED 12/02/2019 12:00 PM I've removed The West Easton Website from my sidebar. The site has become almost unusable with the owner's so-called security improvements. I'm not too fond of supporting someone trying to monetize their blog either. It won't let me click on the post unless I give up my first born by registering my info. Ain't gonna happen. Too-da-loo.
As long as I'm being cranky-- What the hell is wrong with these meteorologists? I've been saying since Friday there ain't going to be no damn accumulation Monday in Allentown. It's impossible since the hour by hour temperature forecast never was suppose to drop below 35 degrees. Do they even know what temperature is freezing anymore? Last night my camera out front picked up city plows going up and down my street in the drizzle. Great for OT.. not so much for taxpayers. The first 10 minutes of every newscasts between here and Philly where beating their drums trying to get people upset. Seems to me they'll do anything to get attention so they can fill their airtime with nearly cost free BS reporting.
People ignore warnings when time after time these so-called experts continually hype up this and nothing happens. There used to be a DJ/weather expert up in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. who was always 100% accurate. He used to walk over, lift up the window and tell people what it was doing. It didn't take him 5-10 minutes explaining all the intricacies for something which could be said in less then a minute. Oh and by the way... there won't be any on the ground Tuesday (tomorrow) either no matter what they try and tell you. I can also confidently report it will get dark tonight.
If I were a rich man-- I'd only take as much as I can use to live a comfortable life. Nobody (I mean nobody) has needs for millions a year. I sincerely would be more then happy with a nice house debt free and a couple buck$ left over to enjoy. More then that I'd find individuals on my own who could use some help. Maybe bail them from medical debt or someone working their butt off and getting nowhere. Forget churches organizations where usually leaders are making a living more then decent off of them.
What's a non-profit? There's a hellva lot of rich churches, hospitals and research organizations that own vast properties and whom it's hired help are well compensated. IMO nearly half are legal scams to avoid paying taxes.
Pennsylvania has one of the largest number of legislators who are paid almost the highest in the nation for the 70 days they're in session. I wonder if there were none for a year or two if anyone would ever miss them?
To be honest I know I'm out of the loop but can anyone else name three movies or hit songs these top award show gatherers performed? Speaking of TV concerts, etc. anyone else notice how producers edit in audience screams to every damn performance? Watch mouths closely. Lots of clapping.. few mouths open. They also like to focus on a avid bunch but look in the background and you will see lots more unenthusiastic as they in the foreground.
The next president-- I don't like any of them. You mean out of 300+ millions this is all we can come up with? Where are the reasonable minds? Each seem to be trying to outdo the other's radical ideas on both sides. Most of their ideas don't mean squat anyways unless congress approves their crazy plans. A do nothing congress? Maybe not such a bad thing. Besides with all the appeals and lawsuits it seems the judicial system ends up making most the decisions these days.
Be honest, how many shopping for Christmas are buying crap for somebody else.
ROPE A DOPE-- How has any of these so called 'smart' thingies made life more simplified or cheaper to use?
As long as I'm being cranky-- What the hell is wrong with these meteorologists? I've been saying since Friday there ain't going to be no damn accumulation Monday in Allentown. It's impossible since the hour by hour temperature forecast never was suppose to drop below 35 degrees. Do they even know what temperature is freezing anymore? Last night my camera out front picked up city plows going up and down my street in the drizzle. Great for OT.. not so much for taxpayers. The first 10 minutes of every newscasts between here and Philly where beating their drums trying to get people upset. Seems to me they'll do anything to get attention so they can fill their airtime with nearly cost free BS reporting.
People ignore warnings when time after time these so-called experts continually hype up this and nothing happens. There used to be a DJ/weather expert up in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. who was always 100% accurate. He used to walk over, lift up the window and tell people what it was doing. It didn't take him 5-10 minutes explaining all the intricacies for something which could be said in less then a minute. Oh and by the way... there won't be any on the ground Tuesday (tomorrow) either no matter what they try and tell you. I can also confidently report it will get dark tonight.
Saturday, November 30, 2019
Xfinity Ad- Reconnect For The Holidays
Somebody deserves an award for this!
Make It Snow So
I CAN FINALLY POST THIS ☃️🌲🌨 pic.twitter.com/J7McvrZXfe
— Markeia McHolidayParty 🌲 (@markeiamccarty) November 29, 2019
Thursday, November 28, 2019
Monday, November 25, 2019
Homeless People Are Not Bums
Patreon: Invisible People
CHECK OUT HIS YOUTUBE CHANNEL
It's been said most of us are one major medical event away from finding ourselves in the same position. Bills that can't be covered. Left go for medical reasons by one's employer very well could leave anyone of us SOL. This administration has a habit of discounting these people characterizing them as uneducated drug addicts. Others as illegal mooches. Still others as unwilling to work. That's simply not the case for most of those as seen in these videos.
Unless it fits their political party's playbook, Washington politicians prefer to ignore this problem. Fortunately there are real people who are trying hard to make a difference. It sure would be nice if a few of these windbags took an actual interest and help fund projects like those that help people get back on their feet
Sunday, November 24, 2019
JBJ What A Guy!
With all the negativity in the news it's wonderful to hear about people like Jon & his wife doing great things. Perhaps it's because BAD NEWS screams so loud we are less prone to pay attention to quiet acts of kindness that may be all around us.
Friday, November 22, 2019
If A Cat Sang A Christmas Carol
If a cat sang a Christmas carol ...
— The Dodo (@dodo) November 22, 2019
We are excited to celebrate the holidays with @TemptationsCats 🐱 pic.twitter.com/7M5VpuREmu
Monday, November 11, 2019
Sometimes I Want To Kick Myself
A few days ago my overhead LED light fixture above the sink flickered then went out. It came on again for a while then went out permanently a few minutes later. I flipped the switch on the wall back and forth a few times.. nothing. Way I figured it the LED circuit started failing before it gave up the ghost.
So I took the light down. Threw it out and ordered another one. These both cost around fifty bucks each. I was disappointed cause I thought LED's were suppose to last more then two years. Soooo, the new light fixture came. I screwed it in over the sink. Plugged it in and.... nothing. What the hell!
It then dawned on me to try another plug. Damn, damn, damn. There was nothing wrong with the old light. Turns out to be the $10 double switch. It had me fooled because switches usually spark their way out or refuse to work when you turn them on. I don't think I've ever seen one go out this way.
What a freaking Dummkopf
So here I am forty bucks behind. To make matters worse it seems Amazon hooked me $7 for a two day delivery fee. When I ordered it gave me two options. (1) Free delivery with a 30 day free trial for PRIME. No thanks. (2) The other to sign up now. After looking over the screen I clicked on a less conspicuous third option which basically said no thanks to either Which resulted in what should have been FREE (with a $25+ purchase) a seven dollar 2 day delivery fee instead. Something I didn't notice at the time. Tricky aren't they. I never ran across that little scam before so I wasn't prepared for it.
Why oh why didn't I try the old light in a different socket. I'm certain a few years ago (when my mind was sharper) it would have occurred to me.
I often said to myself every time it cost me to do something stupid it is like paying for a bit of education at the school of hard knocks. Problem is I'm now 71 and it still looks like I haven't learned a damn thing!
So I took the light down. Threw it out and ordered another one. These both cost around fifty bucks each. I was disappointed cause I thought LED's were suppose to last more then two years. Soooo, the new light fixture came. I screwed it in over the sink. Plugged it in and.... nothing. What the hell!
It then dawned on me to try another plug. Damn, damn, damn. There was nothing wrong with the old light. Turns out to be the $10 double switch. It had me fooled because switches usually spark their way out or refuse to work when you turn them on. I don't think I've ever seen one go out this way.
What a freaking Dummkopf
So here I am forty bucks behind. To make matters worse it seems Amazon hooked me $7 for a two day delivery fee. When I ordered it gave me two options. (1) Free delivery with a 30 day free trial for PRIME. No thanks. (2) The other to sign up now. After looking over the screen I clicked on a less conspicuous third option which basically said no thanks to either Which resulted in what should have been FREE (with a $25+ purchase) a seven dollar 2 day delivery fee instead. Something I didn't notice at the time. Tricky aren't they. I never ran across that little scam before so I wasn't prepared for it.
I often said to myself every time it cost me to do something stupid it is like paying for a bit of education at the school of hard knocks. Problem is I'm now 71 and it still looks like I haven't learned a damn thing!
Sunday, November 10, 2019
Friday, November 8, 2019
What Does A Life Sentence Mean?
Came across this little ditty in the news today. There's a guy serving a life sentence in Iowa. He's arguing for release after this happened.
In 2015 this prisoner fell unconscious in his cell after his heart stopped beating. The prison staff took him to the hospital. Where doctors were able to bring him back to life after getting his heart beating again after the fifth try. He is now claiming he's being held illegally because his "life sentence" should have been up four years ago. So far the court disagrees with him.
The judge reasoned dying doesn't earn someone a get out of jail free card. I agree this makes sense, but what does the law say specifically?
Seems to me the law should define exactly what it considers to be a "life sentence". Oft times a judge will require someone convicted to remain behind bars throughout his or her "natural life". This should be clearly defined. If one or neither is not this case deserves additional consideration
I think law should specify whether prison staff is required or not to revive a prisoner serving life. Whether or not be compelled to take such a person to a hospital if their heart stops beating. In my opinion such absence in law (clearly defining such things) needlessly opens up a state to expensive prolonged litigations.
In 2015 this prisoner fell unconscious in his cell after his heart stopped beating. The prison staff took him to the hospital. Where doctors were able to bring him back to life after getting his heart beating again after the fifth try. He is now claiming he's being held illegally because his "life sentence" should have been up four years ago. So far the court disagrees with him.
Seems to me the law should define exactly what it considers to be a "life sentence". Oft times a judge will require someone convicted to remain behind bars throughout his or her "natural life". This should be clearly defined. If one or neither is not this case deserves additional consideration
I think law should specify whether prison staff is required or not to revive a prisoner serving life. Whether or not be compelled to take such a person to a hospital if their heart stops beating. In my opinion such absence in law (clearly defining such things) needlessly opens up a state to expensive prolonged litigations.
Wednesday, November 6, 2019
Little Mermaid LIVE (IMO)
Off and on (between NCIS commercials) I took a peek at ABC's 'Little Mermaid' LIVE. Here's a few observations I made. The runtime for the film itself is 85 minutes. The network scheduled 120 minutes to air it. That leaves 35 minutes for intros, end credits and ads. If they had the usual number they would not have enough time. So the way I figure it they sped it up. Some of the streaming services are already known for doing this. Most never notice. Well I did. The characters were moving faster then in the original film. You can check this out for yourself via a YouTube search for sped up clips. It easy to do without changing the pitch of the voices going up. In fact I have software on this computer that can do this very thing.
Secondly I noticed the whole thing was lip synced by a previously recorded studio soundtrack. Faking audience screaming doesn't excite me either :-(
Being the film was released in1989 (30 years ago) it meant, most of the younger viewers watching never saw it before. This explains how it came in #1 with the highly desired 18-49 year old audience (about 2 million less then NCIS among all age groups). This was a positive for Disney.
For an old codger like myself, I'm not impressed. I like my singers to actually sing live. Speeding up the film and vocals takes away from what the original directors and music arrangers intended. It also makes me nervous with the characters zooming around faster then they should. Too much hype for my tastes.
That said.. I do see it as smart marketing since it captured the ratings. It was a winner for the younger crowd who may otherwise never see it. I suspect with this success Disney may consider dusting off some of the others in their archive. Nothing wrong with that. It just isn't for me.
Secondly I noticed the whole thing was lip synced by a previously recorded studio soundtrack. Faking audience screaming doesn't excite me either :-(
Being the film was released in1989 (30 years ago) it meant, most of the younger viewers watching never saw it before. This explains how it came in #1 with the highly desired 18-49 year old audience (about 2 million less then NCIS among all age groups). This was a positive for Disney.
For an old codger like myself, I'm not impressed. I like my singers to actually sing live. Speeding up the film and vocals takes away from what the original directors and music arrangers intended. It also makes me nervous with the characters zooming around faster then they should. Too much hype for my tastes.
That said.. I do see it as smart marketing since it captured the ratings. It was a winner for the younger crowd who may otherwise never see it. I suspect with this success Disney may consider dusting off some of the others in their archive. Nothing wrong with that. It just isn't for me.
Thoughts Regarding Allentown Election
After going over THE LEHIGH COUNT ELECTION RESULTS I have a couple of quick thoughts. Especially to those wards in downtown center city Allentown.
Politicians live and breath for vote counts. There's no point in busting their ass for people who won't bother voting. Some accuse city hall not giving a crap about them. Well apparently the feelings are mutual. My God you mean to tell me the people affected the most (in the densest parts of the city) can't be bothered to spend one or two hours of their time every few years to vote?
My district registered almost 4x's as many voters as those in some of center city. I noticed in a number of western parts of Allentown the ratio was even higher. I want to know, what is their excuse for not voting.
Politicians live and breath for vote counts. There's no point in busting their ass for people who won't bother voting. Some accuse city hall not giving a crap about them. Well apparently the feelings are mutual. My God you mean to tell me the people affected the most (in the densest parts of the city) can't be bothered to spend one or two hours of their time every few years to vote?
My district registered almost 4x's as many voters as those in some of center city. I noticed in a number of western parts of Allentown the ratio was even higher. I want to know, what is their excuse for not voting.
Sunday, November 3, 2019
Who Made God?
Simple question it is not. Scientist and theologians pretty much agree on this explanation which falls short. They both point out creation was formed containing both time, matter and energy. The problem is we get bogged down with this word existence. Existence is where we live. Existence itself is a product of this intelligent force. Not the other way around. Hence why labeled the creator of all "things".
Imagine if you will someone creates the most intelligent computer in the world. One that never existed before. It then sets out to discover it's creator by whatever limited means were given to it. Would it one day be able to become coequal. Perhaps it's possible over time it might be able to somewhat comprehend it's maker. Even become a close companion, but it's impossible for me to imagine it becoming human. Look, I enjoy the Story of Pinocchio as much as anybody, but really?
I think realistically this is the fix us humans find ourselves in. Just perhaps even the "creator" itself. Could it be possible this creator found itself wondering the very same thing. "Where did I come from"? Since the "eye cannot see itself" just suppose he/she/it set all this in motion hoping we'll come up with an answer. Could this be the motivation behind all of this?
It's been said "God" is complete and has all the answers. Does he/she/it? Hellva assumption from how little we understand. Lonely alone not knowing would be a hellva motivating factor for going to all this fuss. Perhaps we have a lot more in common then anyone's willing to believe. Not just curiosity but possible vulnerability as well in the not knowing.
We can safely assume is there's not a old grey bearded guy sitting on a throne fretting over every little detail of some 7 billion peoples' lives currently living on Earth. The proof lies in the fact millions upon millions have killed each other since leaving the womb... NOTHING. Governments and their leaders find no favor (despite what you heard). Storms, fire, earthquakes meteor impacts... NADA either.
We need to take a logical approach. One which assumes God isn't coming in a flaming chariot with a booming voice. If indeed this intelligence lies beyond "our existence" we need to focus on it's goals. If our purpose is for the creatior to greater understand itself it's seems to me we best align ourselves with that if we wish to remain useful.
Imagine if you will someone creates the most intelligent computer in the world. One that never existed before. It then sets out to discover it's creator by whatever limited means were given to it. Would it one day be able to become coequal. Perhaps it's possible over time it might be able to somewhat comprehend it's maker. Even become a close companion, but it's impossible for me to imagine it becoming human. Look, I enjoy the Story of Pinocchio as much as anybody, but really?
I think realistically this is the fix us humans find ourselves in. Just perhaps even the "creator" itself. Could it be possible this creator found itself wondering the very same thing. "Where did I come from"? Since the "eye cannot see itself" just suppose he/she/it set all this in motion hoping we'll come up with an answer. Could this be the motivation behind all of this?
It's been said "God" is complete and has all the answers. Does he/she/it? Hellva assumption from how little we understand. Lonely alone not knowing would be a hellva motivating factor for going to all this fuss. Perhaps we have a lot more in common then anyone's willing to believe. Not just curiosity but possible vulnerability as well in the not knowing.
We can safely assume is there's not a old grey bearded guy sitting on a throne fretting over every little detail of some 7 billion peoples' lives currently living on Earth. The proof lies in the fact millions upon millions have killed each other since leaving the womb... NOTHING. Governments and their leaders find no favor (despite what you heard). Storms, fire, earthquakes meteor impacts... NADA either.
We need to take a logical approach. One which assumes God isn't coming in a flaming chariot with a booming voice. If indeed this intelligence lies beyond "our existence" we need to focus on it's goals. If our purpose is for the creatior to greater understand itself it's seems to me we best align ourselves with that if we wish to remain useful.
Saturday, November 2, 2019
If U Enjoy Good Old Fashion Country Music....
Check out COUNTRY ROAD TV on YouTube. Here's their official website: COUNTRY ROAD TV.COM
Here's a few tunes I thought you might enjoy.
With Riders in the Sky and Jimmy Capps
That's some darn fine music, ain't it?
With Riders in the Sky and Jimmy Capps
That's some darn fine music, ain't it?
Friday, November 1, 2019
A Plea For Humanity
TED Talks
In this powerful, personal talk, author and academic Juan Enriquez shares stories from inside the immigration crisis at the US-Mexico border...
If this doesn't punch you in the gut nothing will.
In this powerful, personal talk, author and academic Juan Enriquez shares stories from inside the immigration crisis at the US-Mexico border...
If this doesn't punch you in the gut nothing will.
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
This Ticks Me Off
Between robocalls, TV and internet ads I fed up to here. I even had two calls today from myself to myself according to the callerID. The ever increasing accumulation of all this nonsense has gotten out of hand for me. Enough is enough already
Now 'Daily Mail.com' started this crap where you can't visit them with my 'ad blocker' turned on. For yucks I disabled it and all hell breaks loose. None of their news stories/pictures loads till after a continuing crap load of ads appear in the sidebar. Scroll down and the stories never show up till a shit load of other ads (with absolutely nothing I'm interested in) nearly overloads my browser causing it stall for a period.
I had a similar problem with 'Mediate.com'. In their case these bullshit ads actually cause my Chrome browser to overload causing it to auto-exit on it's own.
These sites need to educate themselves. All these ads come unscreened for malware from other sites the page is linked to. I've had my Norton virus protection popup on a few occasions blocking and warning me. None of these jerks need 134 ads to pop up on a single page (yes that's how many on some). Even worse auto playing pop up videos along with auto playing ads making it nearly impossible to focus. There are about a half a dozen other sites which do this as well.
Remember how AM radio became intolerable with their ads? The magazines which had twice as many ads as articles? Well now these pigs are at it. The internet was never meant to be this way... a intolerable jungle of commercials
Look I realize these folks have to make money BUT... this is becoming intolerable as TV's 20 minutes out of a 60 minute programs. This is why I record as many as I can. So I can skip the ads that I'm never ever going to buy something from. Who's kidding who. 5 or 6 cars ads (I 'm not interested). Drugs, drugs and more drugs for conditions I don't have. Not interested in ambulance chasing lawyers nor a freaking pillow. Then there's the ever repeating promos for their other shows I'll never watch. All this on top of the cable fees they are getting from within my $96 a month cable TV bill for their mostly shitty shows. ALL THE WHILE STILL BEING FORCED TO WATCH THOSE DAMN ADS ON TOP OF IT. It's almost as if it's their second thought to throw in some entertainment in between the commercial breaks. Maybe if they didn't overpay everyone several million dollars apiece half of these wouldn't be necessary. Outside of some local news programs we watch less then seven hours of TV per week (if that).
Forever I've been promoting via links to these sources for the information I provide on this blog. Except for the videos that's about to change. There's no reason why I can't produce solid information which can be easily verified from several sources via a 'Google' search.
I had a similar problem with 'Mediate.com'. In their case these bullshit ads actually cause my Chrome browser to overload causing it to auto-exit on it's own.
These sites need to educate themselves. All these ads come unscreened for malware from other sites the page is linked to. I've had my Norton virus protection popup on a few occasions blocking and warning me. None of these jerks need 134 ads to pop up on a single page (yes that's how many on some). Even worse auto playing pop up videos along with auto playing ads making it nearly impossible to focus. There are about a half a dozen other sites which do this as well.
Remember how AM radio became intolerable with their ads? The magazines which had twice as many ads as articles? Well now these pigs are at it. The internet was never meant to be this way... a intolerable jungle of commercials
Look I realize these folks have to make money BUT... this is becoming intolerable as TV's 20 minutes out of a 60 minute programs. This is why I record as many as I can. So I can skip the ads that I'm never ever going to buy something from. Who's kidding who. 5 or 6 cars ads (I 'm not interested). Drugs, drugs and more drugs for conditions I don't have. Not interested in ambulance chasing lawyers nor a freaking pillow. Then there's the ever repeating promos for their other shows I'll never watch. All this on top of the cable fees they are getting from within my $96 a month cable TV bill for their mostly shitty shows. ALL THE WHILE STILL BEING FORCED TO WATCH THOSE DAMN ADS ON TOP OF IT. It's almost as if it's their second thought to throw in some entertainment in between the commercial breaks. Maybe if they didn't overpay everyone several million dollars apiece half of these wouldn't be necessary. Outside of some local news programs we watch less then seven hours of TV per week (if that).
Forever I've been promoting via links to these sources for the information I provide on this blog. Except for the videos that's about to change. There's no reason why I can't produce solid information which can be easily verified from several sources via a 'Google' search.
Business Matters- Allentown Mayoral Debate
Check it out.
Which candidate do you think won the debate?
Which one will you be voting for?
Which candidate do you think won the debate?
Which one will you be voting for?
Monday, October 28, 2019
Sunday, October 27, 2019
The Real Herbert Hoover
I didn't know this about him. It's surprising how much you can learn in a 8 1/2 minute video. It makes one appreciate how much greatness some people can achieve in their lifetime.
One can't help but compare Hoover to the change in Republican ideologies of today. Enough said.
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Da Vinci Science Center Getting In On The NIZ
Da Vinci Science Center aims to build new center in downtown Allentown
According to THE MORNING CALL, Allentown’s Hamilton Street parcels are not in the NIZ, but the city would apply for inclusion through a parcel swap at Da Vinci’s request... The city offered to guarantee as large a federal loan as it can, likely in the $5 million range... The $20 million grant is still secured for the new science center despite its move to downtown Allentown, Browne said Thursday.
I'll tell ya what I think... there's an awful lot of taxpayers' bucks involved here. This NIZ program could end up over $2b before it's done (if it ever is). This NIZ thing seems to keep growing and growing without a clear end in sight. Like I've mentioned before... no matter how much NIZ none of our taxes here in Allentown seem to ever go down.
There was a time when every building on Hamilton Street was built as a result of consumer demand via private investment dollars. I may be way off base but I think if we have $60 million to throw around it would be much better spent trying to eliminate (or at least lower) property taxes for individual home owners. Thus attracting more families allowing them to purchase goods and services (creating a consumer demand) along Hamilton Street like they used to do in the old days.
Seems to me perhaps we could have somehow created a $2b NIZ for citizens instead of a couple of developers. Here's how it might have worked. The state could have loaned newly arriving individuals (like they did developers) to build new homes on unwanted or foreclosed city owned properties. Since the city is or was not receiving taxes on these previously it would forgo city taxes for let's say 10 or 20 years. In turn homeowners would spend what they otherwise would on city taxes and their state income tax to repay these loans from the state. This is very similar to the deal developers received..
Here's the one major difference. There's way too many excluded properties that could have been included otherwise if it were not for the NIZ. The city would still be receiving taxes on all those properties they've destroyed for the current NIZ. Nor would have the current NIZ incurred the costs to seize them. The current PPL arena could have been built over by the iron pigs baseball stadium which wasn't producing taxes anyway.
Currently Allentown's budget is approximately $115 million per year. The majority which is raised by individual homeowners. So why wouldn't we want more of them instead of renters who come and go. I suspect the city has no idea how many aren't paying city income tax nor the per capita tax as they drift in and out. Such is not the case with actual on the record homeowners. You know, the ones who hold a stake in what happens to Allentown over he next 10 or 20 years.
Yeah I know I've drifted off somewhat from the Da Vinci Center proposal, but I hope you see how this relates. It seems to me it's a going down the wrong path. I'd prefer investing in homeownership over another entertainment venue unlikely to recover the possible $60 million for decades to come. Whereas homeownership would have both benefited people here and now and the city as well if this were to have been the course taken.
That's my two cents. So what do you think?
Friday, October 25, 2019
Elijah Cummings Wife Speaks At Elijah's Funeral
Elijah Cummings' closing remarks at Cohen hearing (02/2019)
Folks this is what greatness is made of.
It breaks my heart to hear Washington has lost part of it's soul with the passing of Elijah.
A New Threat- Swarms Of Drones
As if we didn't have enough to worry about...
Keep in mind whatever we come up with, so too our enemies. Imagine if you will a squad of our soldiers coming under attack. Each drone pre-programmed within having no need for wireless communications or able to be withdrawn till they've accomplished their algorithm (software) designed missions.
2018 Labor Day performance in the north-western city of Xi’an, the Chinese company set in flight a swarm of 1,374 drones over the city wall, creating a fantastic light show.
Imagine if these were instead armed!
We've all seen how extensive troop loses are when trying to invade a city or country by foot soldiers. The problem with atomic bombs is they nearly destroy every structure invaders would hope to reoccupy. Also leaving behind highly radiated buildings, water, air and land rendered unoccupable. Numerous swarms of armed mini drones solves both those problems. All this seems like a nightmare Science Fiction movie except the threat to human life is very real.
Just as it was, and still is, neither nuclear missiles nor these latest weapons of war can be put back into Pandora's Box now that they've come to life. No doubt billion$ will be spent creating and in trying to develop defenses by all parties concerned. Money that could be better used to enhance human life instead of trying to destroy it. No doubt too there will be an insane amount of bartering to sell these weapons on the black market to rogue nations.
These things can be programmed for facial recognition, heat signatures, license plates... oh hell, just about anything. Who knows one day they could be used for police work.
With the advent of all this 'artificial intelligence' and the ability to communicate between each other they could operate on their own when they detect a threat. Let's hope one day the threat they perceive to themselves ain't us.
Keep in mind whatever we come up with, so too our enemies. Imagine if you will a squad of our soldiers coming under attack. Each drone pre-programmed within having no need for wireless communications or able to be withdrawn till they've accomplished their algorithm (software) designed missions.
2018 Labor Day performance in the north-western city of Xi’an, the Chinese company set in flight a swarm of 1,374 drones over the city wall, creating a fantastic light show.
Imagine if these were instead armed!
We've all seen how extensive troop loses are when trying to invade a city or country by foot soldiers. The problem with atomic bombs is they nearly destroy every structure invaders would hope to reoccupy. Also leaving behind highly radiated buildings, water, air and land rendered unoccupable. Numerous swarms of armed mini drones solves both those problems. All this seems like a nightmare Science Fiction movie except the threat to human life is very real.
Just as it was, and still is, neither nuclear missiles nor these latest weapons of war can be put back into Pandora's Box now that they've come to life. No doubt billion$ will be spent creating and in trying to develop defenses by all parties concerned. Money that could be better used to enhance human life instead of trying to destroy it. No doubt too there will be an insane amount of bartering to sell these weapons on the black market to rogue nations.
These things can be programmed for facial recognition, heat signatures, license plates... oh hell, just about anything. Who knows one day they could be used for police work.
With the advent of all this 'artificial intelligence' and the ability to communicate between each other they could operate on their own when they detect a threat. Let's hope one day the threat they perceive to themselves ain't us.
Monday, October 21, 2019
In Honor Of The 2nd Amendment
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
I don't think these people were quite what the framers had in mind.
I haven't laughed so hard in a long time 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣😂😂pic.twitter.com/1Tp8Mg4ZaY
— Hear Me Roar (@Stop_Trump20) October 19, 2019
I don't think these people were quite what the framers had in mind.
Sunday, October 20, 2019
U.S. Government Engaged In Human Trafficking
Migrant Children Taken From Their Parents May Never Be Returned To Them
Children are taken and placed in foster while their parents are being deported without appropriate hearings. Once in foster care, some children as young as infants, have foster families petition for full custody - and the foster parents win. Why? Because the U.S. Government says they are "not eligible for reunification." And the most sickening part of this? The real parents aren't even told where their children are or that they have been adopted."
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Were Disney Cartoons Racist?
HELL NO!
When I was a wee one I had no idea the crows being black had anything to do with this tune. I just loved the clip. It was my favorite part of Dumbo as a matter-of-fact.
Disney was one of the first to introduce black artists in his productions.
James Baskett as Uncle Remus
Both these had a powerful influence on kids growing up. Br'er Rabbit (Song Of The South) and his foolish impulsive ways. In Dumbo bullying and how much a mother's love means. These and so many other's of Walt's creations had powerful positive messages kids today should see. It seems to me since Walt's death Disney has strayed.
Cliff Edwards
God Bless Walt
Disney doesn't make them like they used to.
When I was a wee one I had no idea the crows being black had anything to do with this tune. I just loved the clip. It was my favorite part of Dumbo as a matter-of-fact.
Disney was one of the first to introduce black artists in his productions.
James Baskett as Uncle Remus
Both these had a powerful influence on kids growing up. Br'er Rabbit (Song Of The South) and his foolish impulsive ways. In Dumbo bullying and how much a mother's love means. These and so many other's of Walt's creations had powerful positive messages kids today should see. It seems to me since Walt's death Disney has strayed.
Cliff Edwards
God Bless Walt
Disney doesn't make them like they used to.
Friday, October 18, 2019
Suffer Pain After A Flu Shot?
HUFFINGTON POST HAS SOME GOOD INFORMATION
Turns out there are a few factors that influence whether or not your flu shot may cause discomfort in the day or two after getting one.
Turns out there are a few factors that influence whether or not your flu shot may cause discomfort in the day or two after getting one.
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
Currently I Favor Pete Buttigieg
Ignore the last 1 1/2 minutes of this video
My opinion is not based solely on his performance in the debates last night. I've been watching his performance in several interviews over the last few months.
House Drug Bill Would Save $345 Billion
H.R. 3-- "To establish a fair price negotiation program, protect the Medicare program from excessive price increases, and establish an out-of-pocket maximum for Medicare part D enrollees, and for other purposes."
MOTHER JONES.COM-- This is something that, in theory, the Trump administration supports, so it shouldn’t be hard to get it passed. Unfortunately, that would ruin Trump’s claim that Democrats are doing nothing, so it will probably die in the Senate.
LINK TO CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE
IN A PDF LETTER THE CBO STATES... You can track H.R. 3's progress here at CONGRESS.GOV. It also contains all the juicy details.
H.R. 3 was sponsored by Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ). It has 49 Cosponsors, but not a single House Republican!
READ THE TEXT OF THE BILL
MOTHER JONES.COM-- This is something that, in theory, the Trump administration supports, so it shouldn’t be hard to get it passed. Unfortunately, that would ruin Trump’s claim that Democrats are doing nothing, so it will probably die in the Senate.
LINK TO CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE
IN A PDF LETTER THE CBO STATES... You can track H.R. 3's progress here at CONGRESS.GOV. It also contains all the juicy details.
H.R. 3 was sponsored by Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ). It has 49 Cosponsors, but not a single House Republican!
Sunday, October 13, 2019
A Great Elton John Interview Video
Loved These musical scores of his too!
Lion King
Aida
Billy Elliot
Lyrics by Lee Hall; Music by Elton John
Saturday, October 12, 2019
Shepard Smith Leaves FOX News
I said to my wife I wonder how long Shep could stomach the badmouthing. Shep is a light hearted kind of guy not prone to tolerate all the negativity that permeates this network. He was promised as FOX's news chief he would be able to interject breaking news stories whenever they occur. From what some are saying these other opinion programs objected. I also said to my wife I wonder if FOX will admonish these others from taking shots at him. Who would they backup? Now we know.
We all make choices. FOX made theirs. Shep made his. I'm certain Shep will be happier. He already looked relieved in those final moments.
Saturday, October 5, 2019
Whatever Happened To Shannon?
I used to follow Shannon for years. Suddenly she just dropped out of sight in September 2013 never to post a video again. She also has not updated any of her social media sites. Never said goodbye... nothing. Makes me wonder if something bad happened or she just gave up on her dreams. Either way I'm sure I'm not alone wondering the same thing along with her nearly 4,000 other subscribers. In my eyes she was a super talented person and hoping things are going well for her.
Here is a playlist of some of my other favorites of hers.
Here is a playlist of some of my other favorites of hers.
Decap Organ (Mechanical Music Video)
Jimfrom OH-- "This is the 105 key Decap organ playing on Midi "Rampart Street Racoon". This is a long awaited nighttime video that many organ enthusiasts have asked for. The organ is owned and was restored by Jim Welty of Fairborn, Ohio.
NOTE: This was filmed in 33 degree Ohio weather and the tone of the organ is a bit "off". We will be updating the audio sometime late Spring 2010.
Originally the organ was 7 feet longer and 5 feet higher. It required major modifications and compaction to fit it into the trailer. Many of the instrument modules had to be shortened and relocated without destroying the basic tone of the organ. This was done over a two year period.
The organ is now playing on Midi technology but retains the original key frame and is capable of playing the original 105 key book music, which is often done at rallies.
The basic organ was sold as new in about 1979, but many parts and pipe units are from pre-war Decap organs. It was common to reuse some of these older parts in so-called new machines. The organ originally was utilized in Antwerp, Belgium in an establishment serving alcoholic beverages -- and other forms of adult entertainment. "
If you enjoyed this one I have 30 more mechanical music videos you can watch on MY YOUTUBE PLAYLIST
Incidentally I have 100's of other videos featuring all kinds of music on MY OTHER MUSICAL PLAYLISTS ON YOUTUBE
NOTE: This was filmed in 33 degree Ohio weather and the tone of the organ is a bit "off". We will be updating the audio sometime late Spring 2010.
Originally the organ was 7 feet longer and 5 feet higher. It required major modifications and compaction to fit it into the trailer. Many of the instrument modules had to be shortened and relocated without destroying the basic tone of the organ. This was done over a two year period.
The organ is now playing on Midi technology but retains the original key frame and is capable of playing the original 105 key book music, which is often done at rallies.
The basic organ was sold as new in about 1979, but many parts and pipe units are from pre-war Decap organs. It was common to reuse some of these older parts in so-called new machines. The organ originally was utilized in Antwerp, Belgium in an establishment serving alcoholic beverages -- and other forms of adult entertainment. "
If you enjoyed this one I have 30 more mechanical music videos you can watch on MY YOUTUBE PLAYLIST
Incidentally I have 100's of other videos featuring all kinds of music on MY OTHER MUSICAL PLAYLISTS ON YOUTUBE
Friday, October 4, 2019
Can We Eliminate School Property Tax?
This has got to be one of the most continuous issues facing lawmakers for years. One could agree county and cities property taxes are needed to pay for needed services. Schools on the other hand provide no direct benefits to homeowners. It could further be argued school property taxes are the only repeating taxes for something you purchased. It's especially unfair if a family never had kids or moved here after they became empty nesters. Some families have a half a dozen kids who pay the same as those with none in a comparable home.
One of the issues I have is how schools have gone beyond their mission to provide a basic education. For example providing grief counselors, before-after and during school meals, infant care, security teams, summer programs, teachers tuition reimbursement programs, financial partnerships with community colleges, bloated administration positions and so forth. All of these are noble causes but incur increased costs. Let us start the conversation by looking at ways to decrease some of these expenses.
Several other points could be made but the question still remains as to how would we otherwise pay for education? Here's a few to think about.
*** At one time the federal government wanted to encourage population growth. In today's world it makes me wonder why we still give generous IRS deductions for each kid. What if instead a certain amount were charged for each kid and that amount was sent directly to the school district your kid was in after 6 years of age?
*** How about an impact fee for each child born? Yeah I know having kids is already expensive as hell but our continued population growth impacts us all. This offsets some of those costs to the rest of us.
*** What if after a certain age we eliminated owner occupied property taxes comparable to 'debt paid'? Charge them more in their working years. Less thereafter. In the case of renters landlords would receive reduced property taxes (and be required) to provide reduced rents for units without kids proportionate to what they pay. A little more for the others with kids.
*** How about requiring so called non-profits to pay taxes on their properties? It could be paid at a much lower rate, but why shouldn't they help pay like the rest of us for the same benefits we are told we are receiving?
*** What about those single moms with a bunch of kids struggling too poor to pay? Yeah, what do you think we ought to do with them? Any ideas?
Point is... our education system (including college) is sucking us dry. Could home schooling online be the answer OR some other new way of educating our kids? What say you?
One of the issues I have is how schools have gone beyond their mission to provide a basic education. For example providing grief counselors, before-after and during school meals, infant care, security teams, summer programs, teachers tuition reimbursement programs, financial partnerships with community colleges, bloated administration positions and so forth. All of these are noble causes but incur increased costs. Let us start the conversation by looking at ways to decrease some of these expenses.
Several other points could be made but the question still remains as to how would we otherwise pay for education? Here's a few to think about.
*** At one time the federal government wanted to encourage population growth. In today's world it makes me wonder why we still give generous IRS deductions for each kid. What if instead a certain amount were charged for each kid and that amount was sent directly to the school district your kid was in after 6 years of age?
*** How about an impact fee for each child born? Yeah I know having kids is already expensive as hell but our continued population growth impacts us all. This offsets some of those costs to the rest of us.
*** What if after a certain age we eliminated owner occupied property taxes comparable to 'debt paid'? Charge them more in their working years. Less thereafter. In the case of renters landlords would receive reduced property taxes (and be required) to provide reduced rents for units without kids proportionate to what they pay. A little more for the others with kids.
*** How about requiring so called non-profits to pay taxes on their properties? It could be paid at a much lower rate, but why shouldn't they help pay like the rest of us for the same benefits we are told we are receiving?
*** What about those single moms with a bunch of kids struggling too poor to pay? Yeah, what do you think we ought to do with them? Any ideas?
Point is... our education system (including college) is sucking us dry. Could home schooling online be the answer OR some other new way of educating our kids? What say you?
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Man Films Last Few Minutes Alive
😥😥😥 pic.twitter.com/SOZnB9NQ8m
— Hear Me Roar (@Stop_Trump20) October 1, 2019
Tuesday, October 1, 2019
Hillary Clinton Running For President Again?
Looking over the current crop of Democrats running against Trump it may not be such a bad idea as it first seems. None of them have the experience Hillary has. The only one that does is Biden but given his baggage and age it isn't making him look too viable. Not to mention with every passing day these other Democratic candidates seem to come up with even crazier ideas then the day before.
Debate #1
Debate #2
As far as I'm concerned Trump will eat Biden for lunch. You and I both know it. Could it just be Trump is hedging his bets in case Hillary jumps into the fray? Could this just be the reason why attorney general Barr, Hannity and the crew are renewing their efforts to try and destroy Hillary? I tend to think this very well may be the case.
Seems like she spends a lot of time living in his head to me. Too much so. Could the fear of her running be the reason for it? Now whether Hillary actually runs is another matter. I very much doubt it. Time will tell.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Favorites Scenes From 'Madam Secretary'
"Nationalism" Versus "Patriotism"
The new season begins on CBS October 6th at 10:00 PM.
Cable TV News Training Video
The way i understand it this is required viewing before being awarded a degree in 'Broadcast Journalism' from most colleges.
Friday, September 27, 2019
A Few Music Clips
Every so often I like to post music videos. Various talented performers I enjoy far more then just about anything else I come across on the internet.
Jack Black performs 'Everybody Polka' (Sept. 2018)
Still Hurting (The Last Five Years) | Cover by Evynne Hollens
Peter Hollens feat. Brian Hull
I've been following Evynne and her husband singing for a years. Both their talents amaze me. Agree?
Still Hurting (The Last Five Years) | Cover by Evynne Hollens
Peter Hollens feat. Brian Hull
I've been following Evynne and her husband singing for a years. Both their talents amaze me. Agree?
Robocall Center FAIL
These guys aren't very good at their jobs. Just got a call whom the caller-ID identified as 'Capital BC'. They wanted me to press #1 in order to receive a refund from "my electric utility" company for an overcharge of $30. Who knew they were in the generating business :-)
One thing is for sure. My answer machine is a good listener. It listens to three or four of these calls a day and never complains. Even those never ending ridiculous calls from my pharmacy who seems wanting to endlessly push unwanted pills on me no matter how many times I complain to knock it off. The same pharmacy chain sends me automated bills claiming my insurance never paid them twice or three times a year (when they did). Course they also tried to short me on my last prescription pickup (worth about $650).
Great googa-mooga people... FOCUS !
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Check Out Jimmy's YouTube Channel
I mentioned before I'm focused on many other things besides politics. I found his videos quite informative so I thought I'd pass this along. He gives you a lot of things to think about.
One of my favorites of his..
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Monday, September 16, 2019
Old Kraft Plant In Fogelsville I'm Confused
Keurig Dr Pepper facility in Lehigh Valley..
Here's why I'm confused.
The article didn't specifically state they'd make k-cups. If they do why would they spend $220 million on a building they won't own when could have bought it for $36.48 million in which Kraft was already producing these k-cups with experienced workers already in place? Seems to me it would have been a lot smarter to have bought the building for themselves utilizing the storage areas, rail service, truck docks and the millions of dollars in these coffee making machines already in place. Why tear down the building?
I was told at one point Kraft requested greater water use so they could put juice lines in and were denied. So now it's OK to produce Dr. Pepper?
Why are we taxpayers going to shell out a bunch of loot along with the company training employees who worked the K-cup lines and Kraft's liquid fillers for years?
Like I said I'm confused.
Justice Gorsuch's Interview
It's too bad this guy already has a job. I'm greatly disturbed by the almost looney candidates campaigning for president. Here's a man who speaks calmly with great eloquence and even greater commonsense then the whole lot of those seeking office put together. Why can't we have someone of his intelligence and character seeking the presidency?
I will say this.. it comforting to know not everybody in Washington is a screwball. Now if only we could replace half of congress with a few more level headed individuals. Then we all could rest easier.
Published on Sep 10, 2019
I will say this.. it comforting to know not everybody in Washington is a screwball. Now if only we could replace half of congress with a few more level headed individuals. Then we all could rest easier.
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
Complaining Solves Nothing
Nearly everyone bitches about homelessness, shootings, property taxes and the lack of affordable healthcare among many more. What I'm not hearing from people bitching the most are practical commonsense solutions. In my opinion these should never be made public. Not on a media report nor comment on social media. Not a single one that doesn't offer a suggestion to help solve the problem. If that were the case nearly all the divisiveness we're experiencing would cease to exist.
Almost everything ends up with finger pointing complaining what a jerk someone else is or how Democrats or Republicans are screwing things up. I'm fed up with all this finger pointing We all agree what the problems are. Anyone who just wants to complain without offering a solution needs to shut their pie hole. Enough already
Fact is most of this crap has been going on decade after decade. I don't doubt we'll still be dealing with this garbage for many more decades to come. Which makes me wonder how sincere are we at resolving any of this. Some continue making a nice living off of these issues. Others rather bitch then ever consider changing their ways. I, for one, am tired of this BS.
Almost everything ends up with finger pointing complaining what a jerk someone else is or how Democrats or Republicans are screwing things up. I'm fed up with all this finger pointing We all agree what the problems are. Anyone who just wants to complain without offering a solution needs to shut their pie hole. Enough already
Fact is most of this crap has been going on decade after decade. I don't doubt we'll still be dealing with this garbage for many more decades to come. Which makes me wonder how sincere are we at resolving any of this. Some continue making a nice living off of these issues. Others rather bitch then ever consider changing their ways. I, for one, am tired of this BS.
Monday, August 19, 2019
Friday, August 9, 2019
Mississippi Immigration Raids
300 Arrested In Mississippi Immigration Raids Have Been Released, Officials Say
Wonder how many will line up for them?
KOCH FOODS is hosting a job fair on Monday, August 12, 2019, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Forest WIN Job Center.
— Mississippi Department of Employment Security (@MDESMS) August 8, 2019
Applicants will need to provide two forms of valid ID when applying. @Koch_Foods pic.twitter.com/Wvm2TF6T9N
Couple things I need to point out. First of all this has nothing to do with the infamous Koch Brothers. It's owned (this and the other three raided) entirely by Joseph Grendys who had a similar charge against them in August 2007 over use of undocumented labor.
Then there's this. Kind of makes me wonder if it will result in not having to payout that settlement?
Koch Foods plant raided by ICE owed its workers $3.75 million from a 2018 class action lawsuit over discriminatory/abusive working conditionshttps://t.co/hDaAiHBMnZ via @clarionledger
— Sensia (@Sensiablue) August 8, 2019
There could have been two better ways this could have been dealt with. Number one is I wonder how many of these would have qualified for Obama's "dreamers" status if Trump had not yanked it from them. Number two. Why didn't this company take the legal route by filing a request for foreign guest workers with the feds? Could it be the limit of 140,000 H2B VISAs per year were already taken? Was it a problem of money since these cost $150-$190 per applicant?
One thing is certain the timing was really bad. One day after the El Paso shootings on the first day of school. Yeah I know the argument.. "it's the law". Well laws are whatever we want them to be. They weren't handed down to Moses from God set in stone. My response to those who lack empathy and understanding is.. seize the opportunity. Now is your chance to do these shity jobs. See how you like them.
OH THAT LOOKS LIKE A FUN JOB DOESN'T IT?
Imagine what will happen if ICE raids a bunch more of the factories and farms. Americans sure as hell don't want these jobs. Food could become a lot more scarce and expensive.
Ya All Have A Good Day Ya Hear
That's how traffic stops are done when you're a judge!
— Hear Me Roar (@Stop_Trump20) August 9, 2019
PAs Judge Dennis Reinaker was pulled over for tailgating. In a written statement, he denied using his judicial position to pressure the officer not to ticket him.pic.twitter.com/UwRJPkiUBs
Wednesday, August 7, 2019
Soak This Rich Millionaire
Millionaire Stephen Prince volunteered to get dunked in order to make a statement about the GOP tax cuts pic.twitter.com/1CihkubLlb
— NowThis (@nowthisnews) August 7, 2019
Tuesday, August 6, 2019
Gun Debate Rages On
Imagine. When this is the starting point where does it end. pic.twitter.com/LmCrUgXzd7
— Roscoe James (@RoscoeJames) August 6, 2019
‘I don’t want to hear the question ‘is this president racist?’ anymore. He is.’ — @AOC held nothing back while condemning Trump for using the language of white supremacy pic.twitter.com/XJIrIWNYKV
— NowThis (@nowthisnews) August 7, 2019
Monday, August 5, 2019
Useful Catchphrases For After Mass Shootings
It's not my 1st rodeo. I've been riding this same carousel for decades. As a public service I'll provide readers with the ever repeated phrases no matter which side of the argument one is on. Please feel free to select any number of the above whichever suits your purpose. Alls I knows is we'll be talking about this again and again like we've always have. So keep these handy.
Notice the only one thing I didn't list to caste blame on?
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