The James Brown concert went better than I expected. Next for the stage will be Latin sounds of Gloria Estefan. She takes to the stage this Saturday at 1:00 AM (Eastern US).
After an initial glitch, Q&A page is up and running. Feel free to participate.
Beach walks return to their normal posting slot (my Sunday night)
In the Danube Cruise series, I mentioned the magnificent Iron Gates Gorge. I initially stated it is along the Romania-Bulgaria border, which is incorrect – it’s Romania-Serbia. A duh-moment in my head. I invite readers to watch this 3-minute video of this natural wonder taken by a person on a river cruise ship.
I keep thinking about the child who fell to her death from her grandfather’s arms on a cruise ship – and he is charged with her death. In my opinion, the charges are unwarranted. After all, he is already has a life sentence of dealing with the incident for the rest of his life. On the other hand, I don’t think Royal Caribbean was negligent. Simply a tragic accident.
We recently saw Knives Out in the theater. It’s a good who-done-it movie. Well done with interesting twists and turns. Not worthy of Oscars, but entertaining. Here’s the trailer.
My wife purchased an Advent calendar of teas – that’s a different tea for 25 days. So far, they’ve been good.
The winning way of my fantasy Benevolent Impalers continue, and are now 11-2. However, it took the greatest comeback in franchise history to win. It wasn’t pretty and the lowest point total of the season, but a win is a win. Meanwhile, I’m still in shock that the Bengals actually won a game!
Thanks to The Onion, this headline and picture made me laugh.
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One would think Michael Bloomberg’s candidacy would excite me. Nope … I won’t be voting in Ohio’s Democratic Primary, so my assessment of the Democratic field is worthless. They can nominate whoever they want. Just because I unquestionably won’t be voting for President Trump, that has no influence on whether or not I will vote for the Democratic candidate. Besides, the Democratic and Republican parties want the same thing from me – my money and my vote – plus they could care less about my thoughts.
An idea for any of the older Democratic candidates. Announce running as a one-term transitional president in order to stabilize America and then pass the baton to the next generation.
For me, the 2020 election offers a big dilemma. I know there are other possibilities, but these options bother me. Four more years of a Trump presidency or Democrats having control of the White House and both sides of Congress.
Have you noticed that Congressional Republicans favor criticizing the process over defending the president’s actions.
In my opinion, what President Trump has been accused of doing is worse than what President Nixon did. Sadly, the public doesn’t buy it – in part, because a) the more partisan nature of the public today versus then and 2) the poor job Democrats are doing in delivering a good civics lesson to the public – although the first day of the Judiciary hearing offers hope. Then again, the public will yield to it’s partisan side.
Congress is responsible for oversight. It’s has done of poor job of doing so over the past 20+ years, and the current Congress has plunged below the poor level.
To lead you into this week’s satirical headlines, The Onion provides information about the ten worst snowstorms in US history.
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Weekly Headlines from The Onion (combos welcome)
Biologists recommend trees put aside a little phosphorous for unexpected emergencies
Facial Recognition Software Knows It Has Seen Man Before But Can’t Remember His Name
Child decides to become vegetarian after forming close friendship with roasted turkey leg
Veterinarian Wishes Owner Would Just Let Dog Answer One Goddamn Question
Flu outbreak reducing class size to level appropriate for learning
Child Wondering Why Older Brother Only One To Get Funeral
Interesting Reads
Automation improving jobs
Extraordinary talented: why?
A big cat problem: captivity and the wild
Historical view of gin
Why no glasses?
(Graphic) 670 years of interest rates
(Photos) Garden wildlife
(Photos) Cincinnati Zoo animals
To send you into the weekend, here’s a bit of Ed Sheeran. In the words of Garrison Keillor, Be well, do good work, and keep in touch.
I think you should do a Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks concert.
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Ray,
Thanks for the idea that made me smile … but with the fingers on one hand being able to count the remaining concerts, I say with great regret they didn’t make the final cut.
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The show “Knives Out” looks entertaining – and we could all use a few laughs and more entertainment now. You are so right about this: “the Democratic and Republican parties want the same thing from me – my money and my vote – plus they could care less about my thoughts.” Grim.
Sooo, just do what you can to make your neighborhood – your own little corner of the world – happier, brighter, litter (both plastic/paper and animal) free, and bring some smiles and laughter to those around you. Can’t hurt – and sounds like much more fun.
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Mouse,
During such unnecessarily harsh and goofy times, yep – concentrating on the positive little things about one’s personal world is helpful!
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Let’s get on with the trial and then maybe just maybe the house will get back to work.
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John,
Although I see your point, the Senate is equally responsible for the lack of work for the people. On the plus side, with the two chambers being controlled by different parties, one is preventing the other from shoving ideological legislation down our throats.
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Think in horror of a one party exec and legislative branch. A socialist one at that.
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In this climate, I am horrified if that happens. After all, we saw 2017 and 2018 as two years of cramming it down our throat … and the odds of that happening the other way are very high.
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Re: grandpa on the cruise
My last employer didn’t believe in accidents. Any mishap was avoidable and someone’s fault. I simply cannot buy into that way of thinking. We didn’t use to punish people for this sort of tragedy. Now “we” want to incarcerate women who have miscarriages. This is crazy!!
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Eilene,
I definitely agree on multiple counts. The poor man is crushed and lives with that event 24/7/365.
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I love that song! The political situation is utterly disheartening. Why can’t we come up with a strong, solid presidential candidate? What has happened to your country?
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Cindy,
The Ed Sheeran song was a last-minute replacement, so thanks for validating my choice! In terms of the presidency, solid or not, I fear for the next president.
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Thanks for giving me something to chuckle over. With the craziness of politics and campaign matters, items in The Onion are definitely a welcome respite. Enjoy the holidays!
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Patti,
You’ve been around here long enough to know that I want OITS to be wide ranging … so yes – we need The Onion to offset the stuff mentioned right before it! Keep positive thoughts during your holiday.
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Gloria Estefan, eh? I’ll do my best…
How did I miss that awful story of the child lost at sea? Oh my God, the poor grandfather. To live with that for the rest of his life is punishment enough.
I have your Danube series put aside to read/watch so I’ll know the what’s what 😉
I just love Ed Sheeran – is it me or his voice just doesn’t match his body? 😀
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Oh, and I was planning on seeing Knives Out so glad you found it entertaining…
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If you see it, let me know what you think.
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I will be seeing it, I am rather certain
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Dale,
I can’t recall when the grandfather’s incident happened, but the story occasionally pops up on my radar. Very sad. Meanwhile, I’ve always loved Gloria, so I had to include her. What a long career! As for Ed Sheeran, I recall being surprised when I first saw him. See you at the concert.
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I guess I just happened to miss the story.
She’s not my fave, but I’ll still play along 😉
I think it’s the red hair and freckles 😀
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…. and that’s ok.
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Cincy,
You’re right about that grandfather. He does have a life sentence already.
I’m still eleven back in my pool, and I didn’t do myself any favors by forgetting about the Thanksgiving Day games, oooph!
Yankees are said to be preparing a record setting offer for Cole. Seeing as how their title drought stands at ten years and counting, watch out! LOL
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Marc,
While your Yankees are without a title for 10 years, don’t forget that my team has made it to the playoffs (I think twice) since their last title (1990). Getting Moose is an improvement, and I expect something major to happen in the next two weeks. Meanwhile, the NFL is tough – so sometimes fantasy games get the best of us. Finish strong!
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I remember that Barry Larkin led team sweeping the heavily favored A’s in the World Series. That was Sweet Lou’s only WS win as a skipper.
This NFL season has been totally unpredictable. I had the Cowboys last night and they predictably blew it, again. Garrett needs to go now. But Jerry Jones has to shut his trap already. These post game press conferences are comical.
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Regarding Lou’s 1990 team, the also were a wire-to-wire team! Eric Davis was an outstanding player too – but he got hurt in the Series.
Jerry Jones being quiet? LOL … Better odds of Trump being honest and not lying.
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I remember the A’s were still prohibitive favorites though, coming off their WS title sweep the year before. And that Oakland team swept right through my inept Yankees, beating them 12-0 in the regular season.
Eric Davis had such a vicious, compact swing. He never should’ve fallen for LA . . .
Jerry Jones has done so much for the organization, but he’s also taken much. Like when his meddling ways chased Jimmy Johnson away after the first two Super Bowl titles. I’m one of those peeps who believes that if Johnson would’ve stuck around, the Cowboys might have won three or four in a row, easily.
This Dallas team should be coasting into playoff seeding positioning right now and that is all Jones’s fault. He went with a coach who will bow down to him, so he gets what he gets.
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Cincinnati loved Chris Sabo and the Nasty Boys relief corp. Now time will tell if Garrett makes it through the season … I say yes … but gone within hours of the last game.
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I remember Sabo and those goggles. And the nasty boys, the names are failing me. Rob Dibble was one right?
Garrett is the WORST when it comes to in game adjustments. Once he goes off script, that’s it. Over.
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Dibble norm Charlton randy Meyers.
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That’s it!
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Eighty and 2 lefties … All with heat. Paul O’Neill also on that team.
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I miss seeing O’Neill in October.
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… and to think the Reds traded him for Roberto Kelly.
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Which seemed like a good idea at the time.
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Yep … But one had a two years left and the other many.
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Many Octobers at that.
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Hey Frank. Sorry I missed the concert, I think I may actually be around for Gloria! I love her. No surprise there huh?
Also sorry I haven’t been very commenty on your blog, I find myself pushed for time around here sometimes. Forgive me? Yes? ‘Course you do 😉
So I never get involved in political discussions around here lol but as always, fascinating post, and as always, enjoying it with me cwaffee!
Many hugs
💘💘💘
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Fiery,
Hope you get to the Gloria concert! No need to apologize for your absence. As I like to say, sometimes life gets in the way of blogging. And avoiding US political discussions is a good thing, after all – you have your own political mess to deal with. Enjoy your weekend!
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Hi Frank! I agree with your assessment of the president. I can’t see the Senate voting to convict him–but I won’t go into a whole harangue. 🙂 Knives Out is one I thought looked fun–I’ll probably wait to see it though. I had read about that child lost at sea, but I agree with Dale. I can’t imagine the horror of living with that.
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Merril,
Good morning. The Senate trial could be a charade – sadly. I keep thinking of Jeb Bush saying (I paraphrase), “Governing by chaos” … meanwhile, oh the horror the grandfather lives with each and every day.
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What a terrific video from a fellow passenger of the Iron Gorge! And the Edd Sheeran tune is one of my favorites.
On the political front, the two recently declared Dems entering the race made me groan. They need to be doing much more culling than adding. Ugh. I’m with you, if one of the ‘statesmen’ aged candidates wins the nomination announce they will seek only 1 term and pick a younger VP to whom they can pass the mantle.
Looking forward to some fun Latin conga videos at the weekend concert. 💃🏼
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Monika,
HOORAY! Someone watched the Iron Gorge video. Thanks for letting me know! What a wonderful area!!!!
In terms of the elder candidates, I suggest they announce that intent now … and I think that would get the attention of some voters!
See you at the concert.
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How horrible for the man and being the grandfather makes it even worse for him. Having to live with that…
Gloria …hmmm I’m sure I’ll come up with something …I think! 😉
Yamas, my friend! 🙂
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Marina,
I’ve seen an interview with the grandfather, and he appears crushed … and to think of charges and a trial. I simply shake my head. See you at the concert.
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👍:-)
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With respect Frank, I don’t think it is reasonable to expect a political party to care about any one voter’s specific opinions. I think one should look on elections pragmatically, by which I mean to value character and general philosophy above any particular policy such as “free college for all” or xenophobic notions. I submit that if more viewed voting thusly, Trump would never have been elected.
Sorry to hear of your planned end to blogging. What I will miss most are your “interesting reads”, always thought-provoking. In this OITS, I particularly liked the piece on automation and on “glasses.” The modern reliance on technology not only points to a promising evolution of work and achievement but also to civilization’s vulnerability to disruption, e.g., an attack by North Korea by long-range missiles to deliver an EMP (Electro Magnetic Pulse) that could render useless anything with a chip in it. Sorry to sound so negative, but these thoughts . . .
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Jim,
I always appreciate your thoughts because you speak your mind and do so in a respectful way. Unfortunately, I live in a district where representatives vote the party line. Crazy it this may seem, Trump will get over 60% of the vote here … and locals like him get closer to 70%, Meanwhile, I look at candidates pragmatically, but I clearly see party-first candidates.
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PS: Thanks for your kind words about OITS. I’ve enjoyed doing them plus the rest of my little corner of the world. But it time as 11+ years has been a long time. Still unsure when I’m thinking January … but will see how it plays out.
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For starters, I really liked the Garden Wildlife and the Cincinnati Zoo animals photos.
Concerning your political talk – No problem from me (and Benjamin Franklin). After all, it’s only the survival of the Republic that’s at stake! Also I’m encouraged to hear you say “For me, the 2020 election offers a big dilemma. I know there are other possibilities, but these options bother me.” – REALITY – The country’s got work to do between now and 11/3/20.
And by the way – don’t lose faith in the American people realizing that what President Trump has been accused of doing is worse than what President Nixon did.
Splats from the Onion “Facial Recognition Software Knows It Has Seen Man Before But Can’t Remember His Name” and the opening of the New Yorker Magazine article about gin: “The other day, I had a White Lady, followed by a Love Thrill and a Hanky Panky. They made a great team.”
Speaking of the New Yorker, thanks for the recommend of the movie “Knives Out.” You and Anthony Lane’s review last week sealed the deal for me to see it.
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Tim,
Glad you enjoyed the images and you found some value in the articles. Always glad knowing of a successful splat.
Put me on the spot, yes … I am losing faith in the American people. Even if 2020 delivers a new president, I’m not sure my confidence can be restored.
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I, too, have lost faith in the American people, having never in my darkest dreams believed it possible that one of the two major U.S. political parties could be completely taken over by a dangerous demagogue like Donald Trump. However, Constitutional scholar Pamela Karlan of Stanford University last week restored my confidence, with her spellbinding testimony before the House Judiciary Committee characterized by one reviewer as “Not speaking truth to power, but truth to nonsense.”
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Although she had good testimony, polls continue to show the public’s reservations … which supports my thought of the clueless nature.
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Blessed are the clueless. They shall get a clue.
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Only if they buy the board game.
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I hadn’t heard that the poor grandfather was being charged with the child’s murder. This is just a tragedy that continues to compound. Very sad story.
You’ve hit me with a challenge for the Gloria Estefan party. I may know more of her music than I think I do, but I’ll have to really reach. I don’t have a listening history. 🙂
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Debra,
Because you are not along (and if I remember), I should find a background article about the grandfather’s tragedy for the next OITS. I know you like concerts, and I when I saw Estefan in concert – wow – an energetic show!
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Knives Out is on my list of movies to see.
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Jo,
Definitely fun, but not award winning. There seem to be many good movies out right now!
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