Category Archives: Uncategorized

Most Remarkable

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In the annals of maritime history, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald remains a poignant reminder of nature’s unforgiving power. Fifty years have passed since the legendary freighter succumbed to Lake Superior’s treacherous waters, a tragedy immortalized by Gordon Lightfoot’s haunting ballad. Though time may have dimmed memories, the ship’s dramatic sinking continues to captivate those who learn of its final, fateful voyage.

Stumbling upon an unexpected article during an unrelated research session, memories of a distant event and its accompanying melody flooded back. The passage of time became strikingly apparent, and the details within the piece struck me as both remarkable and astonishing, casting the past in a new, remarkable light.

In the century preceding this account, six thousand documented incidents were recorded, a statistic that initially seemed implausible. Despite initial skepticism about potential numerical errors, the reported figure remained consistent. Notably, since the referenced event, no further occurrences have been observed. This is is reported on YouTube, PBS News Room by Anna Nawaz.

Gordon Lightfoot, the renowned Canadian folk singer-songwriter, potentially transcended the realm of musical artistry through his legendary ballad “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.” Beyond his celebrated musical contributions, his haunting narrative about the tragic shipwreck might have raised maritime safety awareness and commemorated the lives lost in one of the Great Lakes’ most infamous maritime disasters. His song not only preserved historical memory but potentially influenced maritime safety protocols and public consciousness about the dangers of nautical travel. The profound impact of his musical storytelling extends far beyond mere entertainment, potentially serving as a memorial, a cautionary tale, and a tribute to the brave sailors who faced nature’s unforgiving power. Lightfoot’s artistic narrative transformed a tragic maritime incident into a lasting cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with generations, highlighting the potential of music to document, remember, and potentially prevent future tragedies.

And, at the time, I just liked the song.

Don’t Drive Through Memphis Unless I Have to

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On Friday, my wife and I sat in my car while stationary. We were not in a parking lot but on a five-lane road. The other four lanes were creeping along southward. My electric Nissan just sat there for three or four minutes.

And folks wonder why I don’t drive in Memphis unless I have to. It wasn’t always like that. The five-lane highway used to be two lanes, and the traffic moved along quite nicely. If this kind of progress continues, no one will be able to drive anywhere at all.

What I anticipated would be a brief one-hour road time stretched to over two. The constant vigilance required was exhausting, as surrounding drivers seemed poised to modify my vehicle the moment my attention wavered. Navigating these conditions continuously would undoubtedly strain one’s mental resilience, potentially causing long-term psychological challenges.

Urban sprawl has reached a critical point, with neighboring suburbs experiencing similar challenges. The mounting traffic congestion is compounded by an influx of drivers with diverse and often problematic commuting behaviors. In hindsight, relocating immediately upon retirement would have been a prudent decision. Now, I’m concerned that the window of opportunity for a strategic move has narrowed significantly.

At least, as they continue their migration south, it will drive up my property values.

Can You Imagine With an Honest News Media

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According to recent polls, support for Trump appears to be declining among voters. And this with a media that admits being heavily biased against him. Pro Republicans in the media are rarer than he’s teeth. For those unaware, hens do have teeth.

In today’s media landscape, the scarcity of genuine, unbiased reporting undermines our ability to make well-informed choices. When journalistic integrity is compromised, the public is left navigating a complex world with distorted and incomplete perspectives. We need a media with at least twenty percent Republicans. Everyone knows it’s less than ten. Hence all reporting is from the democrat perspective.

EVs and Weather

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My Nissan electric vehicle typically achieves an energy efficiency ranging from 2.8 to 3.5 miles per kilowatt-hour. Ambient temperature significantly impact this performance, with efficiency potentially varying from as low as 1.7 to as high as 5 miles per kilowatt-hour depending on temperature and night or day.

The initial miles of a journey significantly impact overall efficiency. When starting in a sweltering vehicle, substantial energy is expended cooling the interior. Despite my car’s official 200-mile range rating, I’ve observed remarkable efficiency under optimal conditions. During mild days, around 70 degrees, I’ve achieved an impressive 5.2 miles per kilowatt-hour, effectively extending the potential range to nearly 300 miles. By minimizing climate control usage, the vehicle’s true range appears to surpass manufacturer specifications, potentially reaching just over 300 miles on a single charge.

My daily driving consists primarily of short, intermittent trips with frequent stops. To maximize fuel efficiency and comfort during summer, I’ve found that strategically parking in shaded areas with windows slightly lowered helps get the most out of every KWhour.

The inherent warmth generated by internal combustion engines remains an unparalleled comfort during cold weather, a benefit electric vehicles have yet to fully replicate. While electric cars continue to innovate, traditional gasoline-powered vehicles effortlessly provide instant cabin heating as a natural consequence of their mechanical process. Despite technological advancements, managing temperature in electric vehicles still presents challenges that drivers must strategically navigate.

If Only

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In moments of passionate conviction, I long to broadcast my message from towering peaks, my voice echoing across landscapes and reaching countless ears. Though such grand proclamation remains impossible, I recognize the power of personal connection. By sharing the facts overlooked by the the thousands with a handful of individuals, my words ripple perhaps to the very borders of the nation. Each listener becomes a messenger, carrying the message forward, and gradually, my words spread as the wind, eventually achieving the same goal.

I’ve repeatedly heard the argument that consumers ultimately bear the cost of import fees. While this perspective is valid, it overlooks a critical economic issue: when foreign countries flood the market with underpriced goods, traditional trade protections become ineffective. The steel and aluminum industries serve as prime examples, where international competitors, particularly China, have systematically undermined domestic manufacturing by selling products at artificially low prices.

With our steel and aluminum production crippled, the US has become the subservient to China. Moreover, if we can’t make stee, we have become reliant on other sources such as China. It is an old trick which has been used by monopolies within the US, oil, steel, railways, etc.With our steel and aluminum production crippled, the US has become subservient to China.

Moreover, if we can’t make steel, we have become reliant on other sources such as China. It is an old trick which has been used by monopolies within the US, such as oil, steel, and railways.

If China decides to become hostile, even in a cold war way, we would be totally at their mercy. We would quickly run out of the materials we need for planes, ships, or even missiles. Under such a situation, we may as well lower Old Glory and raise the white flag of surrender. They could quickly put us back in the Stone Age.

In light of these obvious facts, maybe paying a little more now instead of paying with our freedom later. Some of our industries must be protected. If only I could make that clear to one and all.

Some individuals seem indifferent to the economic implications, which raises questions about the motivations of those ardently advocating for tariff reduction.

Training Cats

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In the wake of our heartbreaking loss of two beloved canine companions to cancer, I discovered a calico cat seeking refuge in our storeroom. Recognizing our ongoing struggle with a persistent rat problem, I cautiously extended a gentle invitation to the feline, hoping she might become an unexpected ally in our household.

Over the years, I perfected a gentle approach to winning her trust. With small offerings of treats and tender petting, I gradually earned her trust, then her affection. My strategy proved remarkably effective, perhaps even more than I anticipated. Now, she greets me with such enthusiasm that whenever I settle into my chair, she eagerly leaps into my lap, seeking closeness and comfort.

Our unexpected journey into cat parenthood began when our feline friend’s expanding belly signaled an impending litter. Soon, our household welcomed a charming array of kittens: Goldie, a stunning gold and white beauty; Bridle, a spirited Broncos-themed companion; and the aptly named Gray and Blackie. Oh. How could I forget patches, the voistrous gray and white. She thinks she can talks and comes close to it. The veterinary bills quickly accumulated, leaving me both financially drained and certain that our feline family had reached its final count.

Over time, our efforts to domesticate the stray cats proved successful. A few gradually disappeared, and I choose to believe they discovered welcoming new families. Goldie, Blackie, and Brindle’s absence suggests they found more suitable environments, which brings me comfort. I prefer this optimistic narrative to considering less pleasant possibilities.

During my wildlife observations, I noticed an unexpected camaraderie between cats and a raccoon. Initially, I found myself intervening to protect the cats’ feeding area, but their calm demeanor surprised me. The raccoon seemed non-threatening, and the cats appeared remarkably tolerant, willingly sharing their meal with an unlikely visitor. This peaceful coexistence challenged my preconceived notions about inter-species interactions in the wild.

While I appreciate the diversity of wildlife, the prospect of a raccoon leaping into my personal space remains distinctly unappealing. Yet, I’m intrigued by the universal applicability of certain training techniques across various animal species, from nimble squirrels to other untamed creatures.

Hey, I’ve heard rumors that these techniques might work on people too. Who knows? It probably depends on the individual. What really gets me is when someone tries to manipulate another person like this. I think some folks might call it slavery, or maybe tyranny – even “soft tyranny” sometimes. Bottom line: be careful when strangers offer you stuff like food or favors. Always think twice before accepting anything from strangers, or even the government. Do we really want to be tamed or trained by those who reside in DC.

The Theory of Rain

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During my military service, I was assigned to Naval Air Station Memphis, located in Millington, Tennessee, a suburb north of Memphis. The region was notorious for its generally predictable weather patterns, particularly its tendency to rain at the most inconvenient times. My fellow service members and I frequently discussed the frustrating meteorological phenomenon where clear, sunny skies would suddenly give way to intermittent rainfall starting Friday afternoon and persisting through the weekend.

As a sergeant, my crisp class C dress uniform demanded immaculate presentation. That day, which had begun with brilliant sunshine, transformed into heavy rain just prior to time to secure. Approaching the exit, I paused, studying the rain through the window with a mixture of resignation and frustration. Experience had taught me the harsh reality of local weather patterns – this downpour would persist with stubborn determination.until I was in my car.

An attractive lance corporal approached from behind, her footsteps light and purposeful. She halted, a wry smile playing across her lips. “Don’t worry, sergeant,” she quipped, her tone laced with playful reassurance, “you aren’t made of sugar and you won’t melt.”

I gazed back at her, taken aback by her unexpected comment. With a hint of irritation, I responded, “My priority isn’t personal comfort. I’m focused on preserving the integrity of my uniform.”

The rain cascaded around her as she burst into laughter, stepping into the downpour with carefree abandon. Her practical work attire, unlike the dress uniforms, meant she cared little about the water’s impact on her clothing. An instant later, I abandoned the shelter of the building, stepping into the deluge. Within seconds, my clothes were drenched, clinging to my skin. Predictably, the rain ceased its assault the moment I settled into my car.

Actually, rain almost anywhere does seem to arrive at some of the most inconvenient times. This particular uniform was hardly the only one that was soaked, just maybe the more frustrating.

Nonetheless, over the years, I did come up with a theory about rain—one that held true even during the hard rains in Vietnam. You can only get so wet. After that, the excess simply falls off. As uncomfortable as it may be, it cannot cause real harm.

While I appreciate staying dry, I’m not alone in my sentiment. Recently, I learned the Marines have updated their regulations, now permitting personnel to carry umbrellas while in uniform. Such a practical change would have been welcome decades earlier, offering us marines much-needed protection from the elements during outdoor duties.

The Keating Five

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I am sure that the Democrats would love for us all to forget this chapter in American history. I would hope that those of us that know, especially those of us that remember first hand will never let them forget it. Let us keep reminding them on a regular basis. We do not want this memory to fade away.

We should have learned some important lessons, and we ought not to forget them. First, heroes do not always make good senators. Second, just because a man is a good pilot does not automatically make him a good representative or senator. Third, it also does not insure their honesty or integrity.

John Glenn was a hero and an astronaut. John McCain was a notable figure from Vietnam. However, the two of them, along with Alan Cranston, Dennis DeConcini, and Donald Riegle, hatched a financial plot that rocked the financial fodations of the country to the point that we no longer have savings and loans. There is no doubt in my mind that they should have all gone to prison. The three non-heroes did, but not for long. My best guess is that they didn’t want to incarcerate a war hero and an astronaut. If it were all revealed, my guess is that none of them would have spent another day inn the Senate.

They interfered with investigations involving large savings and loan establishments, which eventually collapsed. Conveniently, Glenn and McCain were cleared and served no time. My money is on the fact that their hero status kept them out of prison. Well, there may have been some conversation and some bribery going on. That part we will never know. I can’t even hazard a good guess. However, I wouldn’t doubt for a minute that large sums of money exchanged hands.

The net result is that the Savings and Loans went the way of the dodo bird, which, for the most part forced us all to go to banks for doing all of our savings and receiving all of our loans. This was something of a windfall for the banks, especially since the savings and loan establishments were the primary compilation for the banks. When this all happened, I had to move my checking account from my savings and loan to a bank, which was not at all happy with. My S & L just went away. They never asked what I wanted. I don’t think they wanted to know.

And, the Keating five. Well I don’t think they cared either.

It would seem the feds just can’t resist the urge to get their mitts into the financial institutions and cause mismanagement every couple of decades. And it’s us that suffer. Those in government that mess things up never pay the costs.

Neither Glenn nor McCain did either.

Humana; Just Plain Wasteful

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Food waste is a persistent concern that weighs heavily on my conscience. Today, I discovered a thawed frozen meal in my car, a frustrating reminder of my unintentional negligence. The irony of an unfrozen “frozen” dinner is not lost on me, and the situation feels both perplexing and disheartening.

Frustrated, I reluctantly discarded the forgotten item. Had I discovered it earlier, I could have salvaged and consumed it. The previous night’s freezing temperatures suggested it might still be edible. I distinctly remembered seeing it fall from the grocery bag and mentally noted to rescue it, but somehow failed to follow through.

In a moment of self-reflection, I acknowledged my forgetfulness and offered a sincere apology to God for being wasteful. The irony of relying on mental notes struck me—they’re as desirable as a thawed microwave meal that once held promise. My frustration simmered beneath the surface, a reminder of my own fallibility.

After discarding the spoiled frozen meal, I retrieved the mail. Amidst the stack of unsolicited papers, a Humana insurance brochure caught my eye. I recalled the challenging period when my wife was 63, and our monthly health insurance premium approached $1,000 due to Obama Care.

Throughout the year, I diligently paid Humana twelve full insurance premiums, yet not a single claim was filed. These payments were mandated by law, not a voluntary choice. When the year concluded, I found myself searching for alternative insurance coverage after Humana abruptly terminated my policy. The experience left me frustrated and feeling cheated. I vividly recall paying ten thousand dollars for essentially nothing, receiving only a dismissive farewell from the company.

Dismissing the Humana correspondence, I swiftly discarded the unnecessary paper, recognizing its irrelevance and considering both the document and its postage a futile expenditure of resources.

My silence feels like a futile resistance against their misguided persistence. Despite knowing they won’t listen, their relentless pursuit seems tragically wasteful—consuming resources and paper in a fruitless attempt to reach me. Their determination remains blind to the environmental cost of their unheeded communications.

Somehow, I suspect I am not the only one with feelings towards Humana. Perhaps we are losing trees by the thousands in similar efforts to reach similar former customers. Do you think the tree huggers care? I sincerely doubt it. They have no hope to gain any political gain from it.

In Reference to Previous Post

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During the time Old Joe occupied the Oval Office, fentanyl deaths kept increasing. Old Joe and most of his comrades cared not one iota.

Since Old Joe left the White House, fentanyl deaths have been decreasing; and all the liberal press does is complain about the drug-carrying boats being destroyed. (Sort of makes me wonder how many relatives they have lost to drug overdose.)

Just a few minutes ago, I heard about an agreement with China to stop exporting “poison” . Glad to hear that. I wonder how Old Joe feels about it. I wonder if a member of the press will ask him. I wonder if he knows about it.

Will Harris be questioned about the China drug agreement, given her continual presidential ambitions? This seems crucial question to pose to all federal candidates.

During his campaign and presidency, Donald Trump addressed the opioid crisis and drug-related fatalities, proposing various strategies to combat the epidemic. His approach and policy implementations have been well-documented, providing clear insight into his stance on addressing drug-related deaths in the United States.