Category Archives: Uncategorized

Half of What You Read; but Which Half

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Verifying the accuracy of information is challenging when relying on quotations. I believed Mark Twain coined the advice to “believe nothing of what you hear and half of what you read,” but I questioned this attribution.

During my online research, I encountered a quote potentially attributed to Mark Twain, though I could not definitively verify its origin. A comparable phrase surfaced in what seemed to be an Edgar Allan Poe narrative. However, historical evidence suggests the sentiment predates both authors. An earlier writer named Johnson had previously crafted a similar line of dialogue, specifying the intriguing phrase, “Aye, But which half.”

Despite written accounts, personal experience provides the most reliable understanding. Direct encounters, like accidentally hitting one’s thumb while hammering, offer firsthand knowledge that transcends secondhand descriptions.

And so it is that I wrote the above to say this. Sometimes the internet experts do get it wrong, as I can contradict many of them with personal experience. I can’t remember why I stumbled into a bunch of questions concerning window air conditioning.

As I delved deeper into the expert’s responses, I found a growing discrepancy between their claims and my own lived experiences. Each successive question revealed a pattern of inaccuracies that undermined their credibility. My insights were not gleaned from academic texts, but from firsthand knowledge accumulated over years. Skepticism grew as I realized that only a fraction of the information presented could be trusted. My perspective was shaped by personal observations, such as the transformation of my home’s cooling system from central air to window units over a decade ago.

Over two decades of central air conditioning, I consistently paid over $1,000 annually for repairs. Since switching to window units, I’ve invested in three units totaling approximately $1,100, which I installed myself. My current unit, now three years old, performs flawlessly. If it fails, I’ll replace it for less than the cost of a single year’s central air maintenance.

The compact ten-thousand BTU air conditioner efficiently maintains my home’s temperature, rivaling the performance of my previous two-ton unit. Even during peak summer months, my electricity bill remains remarkably low, hovering just above $100, despite simultaneously charging my electric vehicle.

The window air conditioner offers unexpected advantages. Its washable filter requires monthly maintenance, a stark contrast to the costly, frequent filter replacements of central systems. Additionally, bypassing the evaporator coil allows the heater to operate with enhanced efficiency, ensuring a consistently warm and comfortable home environment.

To be sure, there are disadvantages to window units. The living room is always cooler than the rest of the house and it is a bit noisy. These are small inconveniences when one considers the financial aspects.

Based on my years of observation and understanding, I believe several core infrastructure challenges could be addressed with relatively straightforward solutions. The persistent nature of these issues raises questions about the genuine desire to resolve them.

A seasonal bypass lever for the evaporator offers a practical solution to reduce maintenance requirements during winter months. By redirecting airflow, this design can enhance heater performance and efficiency. The implementation appears technically feasible and potentially cost-effective, presenting an innovative approach to climate control system optimization.

Innovative HVAC design could revolutionize home cooling systems by integrating all components into a single, self-contained outdoor unit. This approach would streamline installation and maintenance, allowing homeowners to replace the entire system with minimal effort—similar to swapping out a major appliance. The modular design would enable quick replacement every four to six years, potentially reducing long-term repair costs and complexity. While this might challenge traditional HVAC service models, it represents a forward-thinking solution for residential climate control, emphasizing simplicity and efficiency.

Finally, evaporators should have easy access for cleaning. To me, that should be casual to the most obvious observer. This is true regardless of whatever other changes are made. At the least it might change a twelve hundred dollar repair into, maybe three or four hundred.I have seen repair men remove these things to clean them. It should not be that difficult to make regular repairs like this.

What truly astounds me is how an individual with minimal formal education can recognize these issues so clearly. Despite not being an expert or holding a high-ranking position, I believe I could address these challenges with minimal guidance. It seems those in charge are simply unwilling to take action.

Incidentally, when you see the words of so-called experts about the advantage of big expensive central units, just remember the words or Poe, or Johnson, or whoever it was who said it.

G49

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A while ago I purchased a Glock 49. As advised, I always clean a gun before using it. In this case, I spent over an hour breaking it down. Naturally, I have no one around to show me how so, well, I was not to good at it.

After months of neglect, I finally carved out time to visit the shooting range. My firearm had been sitting idle, and I was determined to maintain my proficiency. Practicing would ensure I could handle the weapon effectively if the need ever arose.

A nagging doubt crept into my mind. The hand gun had been neglected for two months, untouched and uncleaned. While logic suggested it would function without issue, the uncertainty gnawed at me. The prospect of discovering a malfunction at the range was unsettling. Equally unappealing was the looming task of cleaning it- a process I could no longer clearly remember.

After extensive online research and multiple tries, I initially questioned my purchase. However, I soon mastered the technique, disassembling and reassembling the firearm with remarkable ease. Comparable only to my military-issued M16, this weapon’s field stripping process proved incredibly straightforward. Skilled professionals can likely complete the task in mere seconds, it takes me about half a minute. The reassembly was even faster and intuitive, clarifying why Glocks have such a devoted following among firearm enthusiasts..

The pistol’s accuracy astounded me, far exceeding my expectations. My groupings were impressively tight—a 3-inch cluster at 7 yards and a 4-inch spread at 10 yards, reminiscent of my precision during my Marine Corps service. Despite its slightly challenging concealability, I’m convinced this firearm will become my go-to defensive weapon.

They voted

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It is a privilege and a responsibility. The people have spoken through the ballot.

I deeply regret how things unfolded, though I recognize that my perspective is limited. Given my significant geographical distance and lack of local citizenship, my opinion on the matter carries little weight. It would be inappropriate for me to influence or intervene in a situation where I have no direct stake or voting rights.

The election’s outcome aligned precisely with pre-election polling, suggesting a transparent and credible democratic process. The statistical precision of survey predictions reinforced confidence in the electoral system’s integrity and fairness.

In the aftermath of the election, an alternative form of civic engagement emerges through U-Haul rentals. Residents dissatisfied with the current political landscape may express their discontent by relocating, potentially creating a significant demographic shift. The economic and service implications of the recent vote could prompt citizens to seek opportunities elsewhere, leaving behind a transformed urban environment marked by fiscal challenges and diminished public infrastructure.

When I first planted my roots in Desoto County, the political landscape was as blue as a summer sky. Now? It’s redder than a sunburned tourist, with just a dash of patriotic white and blue. Meanwhile, the Big Apple has gone from the city that never sleeps to a place that’s more Soviet-chic than Broadway glamorous.

At What Point?

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I don’t understand!

Every day, sometimes multiple times within an hour, I see ads on TV and hear encouragements on the radio to be sure to get your COVID-19 vaccine shots to prevent the spread and danger from the virus.

I thought we had already discussed this. I thought it was already established that the vaccine is virtually useless. Indeed, I believe it has been established that, for most, especially for the younger among us, the vaccine causes more problems than it helps. I believe I am among those who are suffering from blood clots because of it.

Of course, to the best of my knowledge, there have been no blind studies, or any substantial study to determine one way or the other. It has been over four years now. Why has there been no study? Could it be that there are those who do not seek the truth? Indeed, they want to keep us from knowing the truth or even any part of it. And such a study might just enlighten us.

The question comes to mind: At what point will public health officials admit to the fraud? At what point will they actually conduct the studies? Just when will the pharmaceutical companies admit that it was just a big money-making scam?

Let’s face it. It is indisputable. While we who took the shots suffer, it’s the big drug companies who are making huge bank deposits.

Freezers

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For years, I postponed buying a freezer, always finding it challenging to justify the expense within our tight budget. Now that our household has downsized to just my wife and me, we finally took the plunge. To my pleasant surprise, freezers are more affordable than I had anticipated, making our decision even more satisfying.

As I shopped for one, I initially thought a compact model would suit my needs. However, after purchasing a slightly larger unit, I now realize I should have invested in an even more spacious appliance.

Yesterday, we bought 3 Red Barron pizzas and we had one for dinner. It turned out to be the right size for the two of us. It took twenty minutes to heat up, instead of waiting thirty to forty minutes to have one delivered. It was dangerously hot and it was less than a quarter the price.

It does remind me of something I learned when I worked in a restaurant. The restaurant industry is a a little different than most of the others in that the customer is one of your customers. Most customers can make the food at home.

To compete with the customer, the restaurant must provide good food promptly and courteously. To me, the primary reason for eating out is letting them do the dishes. I actually enjoy the preparation. Besides, preparing is far easier these days.

At any rate, if you have been considering buying a freezer, my suggestion is stop putting it off. And get one bigger than you think you will need. Let’s start competing with the restaurants.

And oh yes. Buy frozen pizza pies.

Doing Something

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In the current political landscape, the Democratic Party seems to echo Mark Twain’s famous observation about weather commentary. While they frequently discuss potential government shutdowns, their actions appear to contradict their rhetoric, effectively contributing to the very gridlock they claim to oppose.

If the Democrat leaders are prone to constant criticism, they should consider finding real solutions rather than exacerbating the issue.

Whoever’s Playing the Titans

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Memphis unveiled itself to me gradually, transforming from an unfamiliar military posting to a vibrant urban landscape that captured my imagination. During my service, I encountered a city pulsing with warmth and verdant spaces, its character emerging through welcoming residents and lush surroundings. Strategically nestled beside the mighty Mississippi River, Memphis offered more than a mere geographical coordinate—it represented potential and promise. As my military chapter concluded, the city’s distinctive spirit and emerging opportunities beckoned, compelling me to contemplate putting down roots in this remarkable Southern metropolis.

Memphis faced significant challenges as its residents allowed ineffective leadership to guide municipal development, repeatedly investing substantial resources into projects with minimal public benefit. The pattern of misguided spending reflected a broader systemic issue within the city’s governance and community decision-making processes. I could and would elaborate but it is far off the point of this post.

The Houston Oilers’ relocation saga became a pivotal moment in NFL history when the franchise set its sights on Nashville. Despite the city’s enthusiasm, a critical challenge emerged: the absence of a suitable professional football stadium. This infrastructural gap would become a defining hurdle in the team’s ambitious transition.

The Oilers appeared to leverage their potential relocation to Nashville as a negotiating tactic, hinting to Memphis leaders that a compelling stadium proposal might persuade them to reconsider their planned move.

As anticipated, Memphis residents fell for the calculated strategy, swallowing the entire proposition without hesitation. Following substantial municipal investment in infrastructure improvements, the Oilers predictably executed their long-standing blueprint precisely as intended. As soon as possible, the Oilers became the Titans and moved to Nashville.

While the legal and procedural aspects of the situation appeared legitimate, there is a strong sense that the residents of Memphis were ultimately disadvantaged and did not receive fair treatment. The circumstances suggest that despite apparent adherence to proper protocols, the outcome was fundamentally unfair to the local community, leaving them feeling marginalized and shortchanged.

Despite my waning interest in professional football following the national anthem controversy, I maintain a steadfast opposition to the Tennessee Titans. While I don’t subscribe to the concept of karma, there’s a certain poetic justice in witnessing the team’s ongoing struggles, which stems from my personal principles.

It is my rationale that I root for whoever is playing against the Titans. It is my rationale that I like to see them flailing as they are. It would not hurt my feelings if they would just fade away, which would leave Nashville with a stadium and no team, sort of as it was for Memphians these many years ago.

How do They Manage That?

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Television networks strategically coordinate commercial breaks, making it challenging for viewers to seamlessly switch between channels during advertising intervals. When attempting to watch multiple programs simultaneously, audiences quickly discover that different channels align their commercial schedules, effectively preventing channel-hopping during breaks.

It is not always that way, but they are pretty good at it to the point that it can be frustrating. However, one would think there are times it is difficult or even impossible. For instance, during sports events, the commercial breaks are unpredictable. Or, at least a person would think so.

Frustrated by the constant interruption of advertisements, I found myself channel-hopping between CBS’s Sheriff Country and the World Series on FOX, only to be met with back-to-back commercials on both networks, disrupting my evening’s entertainment on both channels.

I comprehend their strategy, but I’m perplexed by the execution. How could they possibly anticipate the precise moment of an at-bat’s conclusion? Perhaps the CBS team was monitoring the game live and swiftly transitioned to commercials immediately after the third out. Is such meticulous timing even manageable?

Each Solution Breeds New & Worse Problems

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New Mexico has implemented a groundbreaking free child care program, as reported by CBS News. During an interview, the state’s governor explained that the initiative will be fully funded through oil revenue, providing significant relief for families across the state.

Wait a minute! I thought the production and use of petroleum products were going to destroy the world. It is what the Democrats have been warning us about for decades now. It was causing decreases in temperatures and then increases in temperatures. It was supposed to flood massive amounts of land, including virtually all of Florida.

Do we really want to rely on and hence encourage the production and use of that horrible cause of climate change, oil? According to that climate expert, Al Gore, if we persist at that, danger lingers just around the bend. Well, maybe not. You see, climate change only occurs when the fuel is used by Republicans. That is the way it works, you see.

Now, back to the primary subject, daycare. First, bear in mind that there are potential problems. For instance, both my wife and I worked nights. Does this mean that they will have to provide daycare at night too? (That is, if you can comprehend the obvious conflict of daycare at night.)

The proposed regulations for day care centers aim to elevate quality standards, which will likely result in increased operational costs. While ensuring high-quality childcare is commendable, these changes may inadvertently drive up expenses. The potential surge in demand could necessitate expanded infrastructure, including more day care facilities and additional teaching staff. This scenario exemplifies the fundamental economic principle of supply and demand: as costs to parents goes away, the desire for such services naturally increases.

Perhaps one thing not thought of is the two-parent family where only one works. I’m sure that rare wife who stays home will appreciate that babysitter, though not actually needed.

It’s the way it is with those short sighted democrats. They come up with all these wonderful ideas and they don’t think them through. Then again, maybe it is as they want. One of the most important goals of the communist for government control of children to start as soon and as much as possible. We just might find something two-year-olds coming home and preaching the wonderful benefits of Marxism.

Don’t be surprised when it comes to past.

Why is it Necessary to Continue to Repeat the Obvious?

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The First Amendment protects the right of peaceful assembly and free speech for American citizens. While demonstrations are a fundamental democratic right, they must not escalate into violence or property damage. The Constitution provides specific protections for citizens, and while visitors to the United States are subject to legal protections, they are not granted the same political participation rights as citizens. Political engagement and efforts to influence societal change remain the responsibility of those who are legally citizens of the United States.

The recurring need to emphasize this point puzzles me, as I’ve been aware of these facts since my middle school history classes. This persistent need to repeat these points raises questions about the current state of education and the quality of instruction students receive today. What other fundamental knowledge is being overlooked, whether it be intentional or not.