As a former pet owner I shouldn't be surprised at the degree to which people are attached to their pets. We shared our life with a cute-to-us but weird-to-others mixed (to say the least) dog for fifteen years. She warmed her way into our hearts during a visit to the local SPCA with the idea - not necessarily the act thereof - of of adopting a pooch. In order to make her presence known she stuck her front paw out of the cage as we walked by, causing us to stop in front and comment "awwwwww..." Changing paws a few times to underline her desire/desperation to go home with us, our resistance was weak and the rest, as they say, is history. It took more than five years to even be able to talk about her when she was gone, without my eyes welling up with tears and a period of nose-blowing.
Some people would rather be an adoptive "parent" to a pooch, as is the case with a family member. As the caregiver/slave to her daughter's lap pooch, she admits to being a 'grand-dog' care-giver. In a recent Facebook posting, she shared her feelings admitting to a friend, "I am dog crazy...we had our dog growing up but now I have my Grand Dog, Winston, to dote on! The older I get...the crazier I become...Go figure!"
In England at Christmas time, a man was threatened with a fine for afixing posters of his lost dog on trees, in the middle of the night. That's how desperate dog owners become in being re-united with their best and lost friend.
Statistically, Canadian pet owners would rather deal with their furry friends than other people, according to a recent study by Harris/Decima. A study revealed that 53 per cent of Canadians who own pets find them more reliable than people. Ninety per cent of Canadians talk to their pets and one-third have confided their deepest, darkest secrets to Fido or Milo or Hero.
Furthermore, 73 per cent believe pets can sniff out illness.
- Women more likely to confide in pets (33 per cent) than men (18 per cent).
- 44 per cent would bring their pets to a hotel if allowed.
- 86 per cent believe pets can help lift a bad mood.
- 82 per cent of retirees (65 plus) feel less alone in their home because of pets.
- 67 per cent believe their pets help to keep them active.
The survey was conducted for Purina and its pet connection website, PawsWay.ca.
http://www.canada.com/life/Pets+more+trustworthy+than+people+Survey/3980862/story.html
What does all this mean in the scheme of things, you might well be asking yourself. We need our pets as much as our pets need us. Or to put it into perspective: "Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms" (George Eliot) Ain't that the truth!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Friday, January 21, 2011
France receives hamster alert and warning
Don't get me wrong - I'm very much aware and in favor of preserving endangered species on planet earth. It seems that species once common and plentiful are becoming scarce and in danger of extinction. Then we have hamsters. Not just any hamsters mind you, but the Great Hamsters of Alsace. Go figure!
The French government was warned by a EU legal adviser that it must make a greater effort to protect endangered hamsters living near Strasbourg in Eastern France. Perhaps the warning might have come as a surprise or even shock as it did to me, having never realized there was a difference in hamster species. I figured one hamster is the same as another. The cute rat-like creatures live their lives in cages (at least a lot of them do) and spend their free time working the wheel. But I digress.
If France doesn't heed the warning, the country could be fined if the European Court of Justice rules that it has failed to heed a final warning from the European Commission in 2008. The root of the problem is that their numbers are dwindling and a mere 298 burrows were found in 2010, a drop from 1,167 in 2,001. Hamster numbers are calculated on the basis of one hamster per burrow. Perhaps - pure speculation on my part - some hamster family members were out at the time a count was conducted.
According to EU Advocate General, Juliane Kokott, "if agro-environmental measures were put in place, in 2008, to protect the Great Hamster, they are incomplete at this stage." In other words - my interpretation - if France was making an effort to conserve the hamster, it wasn't obvious. Ms Kokott's opinion has been handed over to judges and in most cases the judges accept the advocate general's opinions and the court's rulings are binding on EU member states. In the recent past, France had been called upon to do more to "combat the agricultural practices and the urban sprawl that are destroying the animal's natural habitat". Furthermore, France failed to fulfil its obligations under the EU directive on conservation of natural habitats.
The hamster, which can grow to 10 inches (25 centimetres) long, has a brown and white face, a black belly and white paws. In old times, the paws were much prized by farmers who made them into trinkets. It wasn't that long ago that people used to hang rabbit paws on key chains.
So what if anything, is your "average" French farmer doing in the way of helping the situation, you may well be asking yourselves at this point. Not much it appears.
They (the farmers) farming in the region have planted maize (corn)instead of the hamster's favourite crop - alfalfa. What can one say or write? If the farmers don't cooperate, who will? Then again, should farmers focus on raising crops dedicated to hamster preservation? What about mice? Or bunnies? Or deer?
Given the state of starving humans all over the planet, hamsters perhaps don't receive the level of attention they require. For your 'regular' people, there are plenty of hamsters available in pet shops. There is a photo of the Strasbourg hamster here, in case you happen upon one in your travels:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-12250291
The French government was warned by a EU legal adviser that it must make a greater effort to protect endangered hamsters living near Strasbourg in Eastern France. Perhaps the warning might have come as a surprise or even shock as it did to me, having never realized there was a difference in hamster species. I figured one hamster is the same as another. The cute rat-like creatures live their lives in cages (at least a lot of them do) and spend their free time working the wheel. But I digress.
If France doesn't heed the warning, the country could be fined if the European Court of Justice rules that it has failed to heed a final warning from the European Commission in 2008. The root of the problem is that their numbers are dwindling and a mere 298 burrows were found in 2010, a drop from 1,167 in 2,001. Hamster numbers are calculated on the basis of one hamster per burrow. Perhaps - pure speculation on my part - some hamster family members were out at the time a count was conducted.
According to EU Advocate General, Juliane Kokott, "if agro-environmental measures were put in place, in 2008, to protect the Great Hamster, they are incomplete at this stage." In other words - my interpretation - if France was making an effort to conserve the hamster, it wasn't obvious. Ms Kokott's opinion has been handed over to judges and in most cases the judges accept the advocate general's opinions and the court's rulings are binding on EU member states. In the recent past, France had been called upon to do more to "combat the agricultural practices and the urban sprawl that are destroying the animal's natural habitat". Furthermore, France failed to fulfil its obligations under the EU directive on conservation of natural habitats.
The hamster, which can grow to 10 inches (25 centimetres) long, has a brown and white face, a black belly and white paws. In old times, the paws were much prized by farmers who made them into trinkets. It wasn't that long ago that people used to hang rabbit paws on key chains.
So what if anything, is your "average" French farmer doing in the way of helping the situation, you may well be asking yourselves at this point. Not much it appears.
They (the farmers) farming in the region have planted maize (corn)instead of the hamster's favourite crop - alfalfa. What can one say or write? If the farmers don't cooperate, who will? Then again, should farmers focus on raising crops dedicated to hamster preservation? What about mice? Or bunnies? Or deer?
Given the state of starving humans all over the planet, hamsters perhaps don't receive the level of attention they require. For your 'regular' people, there are plenty of hamsters available in pet shops. There is a photo of the Strasbourg hamster here, in case you happen upon one in your travels:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-12250291
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Ricky Gervais - funny or profane? Last words
This year's Golden Globe awards are a memory already but the sting lingers on. It appears that the Globes host, Ricky Gervais, is still experiencing the re-bound effects of what many believe to be over-the-top insulting remarks about the various celebs/nominees.
Let us remember that this isn't the Oscars or any of the staid award shows to follow. It's the Golden Globes where the atmosphere is relaxed and anything goes. One presumes that Gervais was hired (again)because of his known ability to quick-quip and powers of observations. This he does well - IMHO - and then some. What is surprising (to me) is the extent to which his commentaries hit home to the celebs and the extent to which they are insulted.
The man is a comic, peeplz! Perhaps - just perhaps - his remarks hit a little too close to the bone? What did they expect him to do? Read staid material from a cue card, praising everyone? He was there to entertain and he fulfilled this aspect - and then some, IMHO.
Too bad because most likely he won't get re-invited back to host the Globes again (note: recent word has it that he has been asked to host next year's Globes but hasn't decided), however, there are other award shows coming up in which he would be great and add something exciting to the mix - like the Academy Awards. Yawn...
To quote Will Rogers: "Everything is changing. People are taking their comedians seriously and the politicians as a joke."
Let us remember that this isn't the Oscars or any of the staid award shows to follow. It's the Golden Globes where the atmosphere is relaxed and anything goes. One presumes that Gervais was hired (again)because of his known ability to quick-quip and powers of observations. This he does well - IMHO - and then some. What is surprising (to me) is the extent to which his commentaries hit home to the celebs and the extent to which they are insulted.
The man is a comic, peeplz! Perhaps - just perhaps - his remarks hit a little too close to the bone? What did they expect him to do? Read staid material from a cue card, praising everyone? He was there to entertain and he fulfilled this aspect - and then some, IMHO.
Too bad because most likely he won't get re-invited back to host the Globes again (note: recent word has it that he has been asked to host next year's Globes but hasn't decided), however, there are other award shows coming up in which he would be great and add something exciting to the mix - like the Academy Awards. Yawn...
To quote Will Rogers: "Everything is changing. People are taking their comedians seriously and the politicians as a joke."
Monday, January 17, 2011
Golden Globes - Hollywood puts on its best smile
Did you watch the Golden Globe Awards last night? What did you think of Ricky Gervais's acidic/acerbic observations of various Hollywood celebs? Actually, I found him very entertaining although it was visually obvious during camera pans that not everyone agreed.
Watched it for the first hour while waiting for the next installment of Masterpiece Theatre's, "Downton Abbey" (love this series!) and returned for the last half-hour. Seems I didn't miss that much since Ricky's presence was limited in the second half of the show. Hmmmm...wonder why... As usual, the 'thank-you's' by the winners went on and on to the point where you (me) want to scream, "shut-up, already!" Really, your average person really doesn't know or care who was responsible for elevating the star to the winner's circle or the people involved in making the film/TV series.
One of the more interesting - at least for me - aspects of watching any award show is the reaction of those nominated who didn't win. There is the fixed smile and the applause but one has to admire their brave personna. Inside they could be thinking: "that stupid blah-blah - she/he didn't deserve the award. I should'a won! Wait 'til I speak to my agent!" Just speculating.
Another favorite part of all award shows is the fashions and general "look." Local plastic surgeons must be working day and night before all award shows judging by the lack of aging on the s*t*a*r*s. Not a frown line, skin creases or bags under the eyes could be seen, anywhere. Mind you, at least big lips were in short supply, thank goodness. Personally, I love the dresses and am aghast at how anyone can walk in those beautiful-looking but most likely painful to wear, shoes. All part of the "the look" one assumes so that we viewers will sigh and wish that we were among the glitterai.
The Golden Globes is the kick-off for the plethora of award shows that will follow. Somehow, they don't seem as relevant as they once did. Still, they're the only means in which to get a glimpse of our favorite celebs playing the role of celebs. And it's about the fashions...
Watched it for the first hour while waiting for the next installment of Masterpiece Theatre's, "Downton Abbey" (love this series!) and returned for the last half-hour. Seems I didn't miss that much since Ricky's presence was limited in the second half of the show. Hmmmm...wonder why... As usual, the 'thank-you's' by the winners went on and on to the point where you (me) want to scream, "shut-up, already!" Really, your average person really doesn't know or care who was responsible for elevating the star to the winner's circle or the people involved in making the film/TV series.
One of the more interesting - at least for me - aspects of watching any award show is the reaction of those nominated who didn't win. There is the fixed smile and the applause but one has to admire their brave personna. Inside they could be thinking: "that stupid blah-blah - she/he didn't deserve the award. I should'a won! Wait 'til I speak to my agent!" Just speculating.
Another favorite part of all award shows is the fashions and general "look." Local plastic surgeons must be working day and night before all award shows judging by the lack of aging on the s*t*a*r*s. Not a frown line, skin creases or bags under the eyes could be seen, anywhere. Mind you, at least big lips were in short supply, thank goodness. Personally, I love the dresses and am aghast at how anyone can walk in those beautiful-looking but most likely painful to wear, shoes. All part of the "the look" one assumes so that we viewers will sigh and wish that we were among the glitterai.
The Golden Globes is the kick-off for the plethora of award shows that will follow. Somehow, they don't seem as relevant as they once did. Still, they're the only means in which to get a glimpse of our favorite celebs playing the role of celebs. And it's about the fashions...
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Darn - my Virgo is now in Leo...or something since Ophiuchus entered the planetary system
I'm confused, which is nothing new for me. All my life I've been a Virgo with some of the virgo-ian qualities attributed to the sign. Now it appears that I've been wrong. Actually, many people are in the same predicament ever since Ophiuchus entered the picture.
One Park Kunkle, a board member of the Minnesota Planetarium Society, is of the opinion that the moon's gravitational pull has caused the Earth to slowly wobble on its axis, shifting the stars alignment by approximately, one month.
Did you feel a wobble? Neither did I!
According to a LiveScience article, astrological signs correspond to the position of the sun within the constellations as they appeared more than 2,000years ago. In a Time on-line piece, there is some background information provided on Ophiucus.
"The constellation Ophiuchus represents a man wrestling a serpent, dividing the snake's body in two parts. It is the only sign of the zodiac linked to real men, sharing traits with Imhotep, a 27th century BCE Egyptian doctor, and biblical Joseph.
Like Imhotep, Ophiuchus is considered a healer of men and a doctor of medicine or science. He seeks higher education and enlightenment. He is expected to achieve a high position in life."
So there you have it. 'O' as I now call him having problems pronouncing his real name, was one of the good people. So where does this leave we mortals? Depends how strongly one believes in astrology and its influence on humans. Could a mere wobble change the course of one's future, that is the question - or issue. Here is the new table of astrological signs plus the newcomer:
Capricorn: Jan. 20 to Feb. 16.
Aquarius: Feb. 16 to March 11.
Pisces: March 11 to April 18.
Aries: April 18 to May 13.
Taurus: May 13 to June 21.
Gemini: June 21 to July 20.
Cancer: July 20 to Aug. 10.
Leo: Aug. 10 to Sept. 16.
Virgo: Sept. 16 to Oct. 30.
Libra: Oct. 30 to Nov. 23.
Scorpio: Nov. 23 to 29.
*Ophiuchus: Nov. 29 to Dec. 17.
Sagittarius: Dec. 17 to Jan. 20.
This leaves one - me - to wonder if about my belief in my Virgo-ian qualities are really me. According to Astrology-online, Virgo-ian traits are "precision, refinement, fastidious love of cleanliness, hygiene and good order, conventionality and aristocratic attitude of reserve. They are usually observant, shrewd, critically inclined, judicious, patient, practical supporters of the status quo, and tend toward conservatism in all departments of life."
These are okay traits but now I discover that due to the new interloper, I am now a Leo and have these additional qualities, which one presumes replaces the Virgo one's, or maybe in addition to:
"In grandeur of manner, splendor of bearing and magnanimity of personality, they are the monarch's among humans as the lion is king of beasts. They are ambitious, courageous, dominant, strong willed, positive, independent, self-confident there is no such a word as doubt in their vocabularies, and they are self-controlled. Born leaders, either in support of, or in revolt against, the status quo."
My Facebook friend, Pauline, isn't having any of it.
" I was, and remain in my heart and mind, a Libra. I am too old for this sort of drastic change," Pauline commented in her comments.
Neither is Facebook-er, Debbie, who wrote "I won't do it!"
It will be interesting to see if astrologers and newspaper columns that traditionally use the 12 planets will be adding Ophiuchus. Really, it's not so bad in the end. Now there are two signs in which to check how our day will play out. Two futures are better than one. Right?
One Park Kunkle, a board member of the Minnesota Planetarium Society, is of the opinion that the moon's gravitational pull has caused the Earth to slowly wobble on its axis, shifting the stars alignment by approximately, one month.
Did you feel a wobble? Neither did I!
According to a LiveScience article, astrological signs correspond to the position of the sun within the constellations as they appeared more than 2,000years ago. In a Time on-line piece, there is some background information provided on Ophiucus.
"The constellation Ophiuchus represents a man wrestling a serpent, dividing the snake's body in two parts. It is the only sign of the zodiac linked to real men, sharing traits with Imhotep, a 27th century BCE Egyptian doctor, and biblical Joseph.
Like Imhotep, Ophiuchus is considered a healer of men and a doctor of medicine or science. He seeks higher education and enlightenment. He is expected to achieve a high position in life."
So there you have it. 'O' as I now call him having problems pronouncing his real name, was one of the good people. So where does this leave we mortals? Depends how strongly one believes in astrology and its influence on humans. Could a mere wobble change the course of one's future, that is the question - or issue. Here is the new table of astrological signs plus the newcomer:
Capricorn: Jan. 20 to Feb. 16.
Aquarius: Feb. 16 to March 11.
Pisces: March 11 to April 18.
Aries: April 18 to May 13.
Taurus: May 13 to June 21.
Gemini: June 21 to July 20.
Cancer: July 20 to Aug. 10.
Leo: Aug. 10 to Sept. 16.
Virgo: Sept. 16 to Oct. 30.
Libra: Oct. 30 to Nov. 23.
Scorpio: Nov. 23 to 29.
*Ophiuchus: Nov. 29 to Dec. 17.
Sagittarius: Dec. 17 to Jan. 20.
This leaves one - me - to wonder if about my belief in my Virgo-ian qualities are really me. According to Astrology-online, Virgo-ian traits are "precision, refinement, fastidious love of cleanliness, hygiene and good order, conventionality and aristocratic attitude of reserve. They are usually observant, shrewd, critically inclined, judicious, patient, practical supporters of the status quo, and tend toward conservatism in all departments of life."
These are okay traits but now I discover that due to the new interloper, I am now a Leo and have these additional qualities, which one presumes replaces the Virgo one's, or maybe in addition to:
"In grandeur of manner, splendor of bearing and magnanimity of personality, they are the monarch's among humans as the lion is king of beasts. They are ambitious, courageous, dominant, strong willed, positive, independent, self-confident there is no such a word as doubt in their vocabularies, and they are self-controlled. Born leaders, either in support of, or in revolt against, the status quo."
My Facebook friend, Pauline, isn't having any of it.
" I was, and remain in my heart and mind, a Libra. I am too old for this sort of drastic change," Pauline commented in her comments.
Neither is Facebook-er, Debbie, who wrote "I won't do it!"
It will be interesting to see if astrologers and newspaper columns that traditionally use the 12 planets will be adding Ophiuchus. Really, it's not so bad in the end. Now there are two signs in which to check how our day will play out. Two futures are better than one. Right?
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Will re-make of American Idol be a hit with fans?
As a person who watches American Idol and upon hearing the news of Simon Cowell's departure last year, I wondered if the show would survive his departure. Simon was the judge we all loved to hate and he developed an abrasive personna, which should have turned off viewers, yet it didn't. There was something about the way he criticized and insulted non-talented singers that we all relished because inside, we all would have said the same thing had we been there. Simon spoke for us.
His departure has left a void in the insult department, which the new judges have no intention of filling. According to Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, they would rather use their singing experience to help up and coming artists.
How boring.
The new format of the show set to start on January 19, will focus on searching for an eventual winner, rather than setting up roadblocks along the way. As I wrote: how boring. There will be changes to the format to include an extention of Hollywood Week auditions to cut the semi-finalist field down to 20. Don't know how this is going to go over with the viewers since it will give them a small field of performers from which to choose. The 'Wild Card' finalists will also be included. There will also be no on-line voting.
To be honest, I found last year's show very blah and most of the singers mediocre at best. Surely given the scope of the talent search, there has to be more talent "out there" in the entire U.S.A. When it's all said a done, a lot will depend on the new judges and what they add to the pot in the way of personality. If they all end up indistinguishable from each other, the show will soon get stale and viewers will turn off. Next year Cowell will be bringing his own show, "X Factor" so Idol better establish itself as a front runner now.
So who will be watching AI?
His departure has left a void in the insult department, which the new judges have no intention of filling. According to Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, they would rather use their singing experience to help up and coming artists.
How boring.
The new format of the show set to start on January 19, will focus on searching for an eventual winner, rather than setting up roadblocks along the way. As I wrote: how boring. There will be changes to the format to include an extention of Hollywood Week auditions to cut the semi-finalist field down to 20. Don't know how this is going to go over with the viewers since it will give them a small field of performers from which to choose. The 'Wild Card' finalists will also be included. There will also be no on-line voting.
To be honest, I found last year's show very blah and most of the singers mediocre at best. Surely given the scope of the talent search, there has to be more talent "out there" in the entire U.S.A. When it's all said a done, a lot will depend on the new judges and what they add to the pot in the way of personality. If they all end up indistinguishable from each other, the show will soon get stale and viewers will turn off. Next year Cowell will be bringing his own show, "X Factor" so Idol better establish itself as a front runner now.
So who will be watching AI?
Saturday, January 08, 2011
News you want to know: insects produce less gas
There is nothing like cyber-surfing to find interesting stories and getting educated about stuff one would otherwise never know. Things like edible insects produce smaller quantities of greenhouse gasses than cattle AND pigs. I mean - go figure! Teeny-weeny insects some of which are barely visible to the human eye, to put it bluntly, fart less than people.
Be that as it may, this fact came to light in the Science Daily with scientists of Wageningen University who recently joined together with government and industry to look into whether the rearing of insects could contribute to more sustainable production. Moreover, insect meat could therefore be an alternative to your regular type meat products. Cattle farming worldwide is a major producer of greenhouse gases.
Far be it to criticize the scientific community but speaking as your "average" human, the idea of eating insects somehow has little appeal. In fact, most of us averages find insects worthy of elimination. Let's just leave it at that.
Why they did this is anybody's guess but the research team for the first time quantified the greenhouse gases produced per kilogram of insect product. This leads one - me - to ponder how they accomplished this. Take your ordinary house fly - please - and try to catch it, never mind assessing the amount of gas it produces. Never even occurred to me that insects - well - fart. The gases involved were methane and nitrous oxide (isn't the latter the laughing gas that dentists use for nervous patients?). The results demonstrated that insects produced much smaller quantities of greenhouse gases than conventional livestock. Duh!
An additional advantage of insects over mammals is that they convert their food into meat quicker. Is this information we need to know? There is, however, some interesting facts one rarely thinks about like did you know that a pig produces between eight and twelve times as much ammonia per kilogram of growth, compared to crickets, and up to fifty times more than locusts. Can't speak for others but this is a revelation to me!
Further research is required to ascertain whether the production of a kilogram of insect protein is also more environmentally friendly than conventional animal protein when the entire production chain is taken into account. This makes one - me again - wonder how much money the scientists received for working on this exciting project. The university, by the way, is located in the Netherlands.
A while back and in the name of science and a TV taping, I ate some chocolate covered grasshoppers. Actually, they were quite good until one of the grasshopper legs became visible after biting into the chocolate. That was it for me! Just thought I'd throw that in since the story focused on insects. thing is and realistically speaking, it's doubtful whether farmers will give up cattle raising et al, in favor of insects. Would love to hear from any insect raisers reading this.
Be that as it may, this fact came to light in the Science Daily with scientists of Wageningen University who recently joined together with government and industry to look into whether the rearing of insects could contribute to more sustainable production. Moreover, insect meat could therefore be an alternative to your regular type meat products. Cattle farming worldwide is a major producer of greenhouse gases.
Far be it to criticize the scientific community but speaking as your "average" human, the idea of eating insects somehow has little appeal. In fact, most of us averages find insects worthy of elimination. Let's just leave it at that.
Why they did this is anybody's guess but the research team for the first time quantified the greenhouse gases produced per kilogram of insect product. This leads one - me - to ponder how they accomplished this. Take your ordinary house fly - please - and try to catch it, never mind assessing the amount of gas it produces. Never even occurred to me that insects - well - fart. The gases involved were methane and nitrous oxide (isn't the latter the laughing gas that dentists use for nervous patients?). The results demonstrated that insects produced much smaller quantities of greenhouse gases than conventional livestock. Duh!
An additional advantage of insects over mammals is that they convert their food into meat quicker. Is this information we need to know? There is, however, some interesting facts one rarely thinks about like did you know that a pig produces between eight and twelve times as much ammonia per kilogram of growth, compared to crickets, and up to fifty times more than locusts. Can't speak for others but this is a revelation to me!
Further research is required to ascertain whether the production of a kilogram of insect protein is also more environmentally friendly than conventional animal protein when the entire production chain is taken into account. This makes one - me again - wonder how much money the scientists received for working on this exciting project. The university, by the way, is located in the Netherlands.
A while back and in the name of science and a TV taping, I ate some chocolate covered grasshoppers. Actually, they were quite good until one of the grasshopper legs became visible after biting into the chocolate. That was it for me! Just thought I'd throw that in since the story focused on insects. thing is and realistically speaking, it's doubtful whether farmers will give up cattle raising et al, in favor of insects. Would love to hear from any insect raisers reading this.
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Fast walkers live longer according to study
If it's not one thing, it's another. Now I have something new to worry about. Just came accross a report indicating that the speed one walks could be an indicator of a short or long life span. Researchers have discovered that walking speed can be - notice those words - can be a useful indicator of how long older adults will live.
The first thing that sprung to mind is many older adults a.k.a. seniors, tend to walk slower than younger adults i.e. middle aged and under. People who walk 2.25mph or faster, consistently lived longer than others of their age and sex who walked more slowly.
The results of this study particularly hit home personally, being a slow-ish-type walker.
"We're able to show that a person's capacity to move strongly reflects vitality and health," said study researcher Dr. Stephanie Studenski, a professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh.
The researchers did emphasize that the aim of the study wasn't to get people to walk faster or to live longer. According to Dr. Stephanie. Our bodies tell us the ideal speed appropriate for us. Actually, my body especially the legs, knees, thighs and right on down to the ankles, tend to send my brain messages to the effect, "slow her down - you're killing us!"
Still more bad news we don't want to know in that a change of walking speed won't lengthen our lives. Dr. Stephanie suggests that we need to address underlying health issues. The researchers showed they could reliably predict the 10-year survival rate of a group of people based on how fast they walked along a 4-meter track.
Track? How many "average" people use a running track, one wonders. Walking speed for those with an average life expectancy was (or is) approx. 1.8 mph, for most age groups of both sexes. So this leads one - me - to wonder how one would assess one's walking speed. Is there some type of mathematical formula or does one have to carry a pedometer while walking to ensure the correct speed? Came accross a piece on the e-How site that provides a formula as to how to calculate walking speed:
http://www.ehow.com/how_8939_estimate-walking-speed.html
The findings were based on analysis of nine previous studies that examined the walking speed, sex, age, body mass index, medical history and survival rate of almost 34,500 people.
There's a lot more statistics and information for anyone interested in the study here: http://beta.ca.news.yahoo.com/fast-walk-may-predict-long-youll-live-20110105-091802-892.html
Still, when it all said and done, walking is a great exercise. For the record, it's amazing the speed my feet travel in a mall, travelling from store-to-store, whenever there's a sale. A person has'ta do what a person has'ta to.
The study is published in the January 5 in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
The first thing that sprung to mind is many older adults a.k.a. seniors, tend to walk slower than younger adults i.e. middle aged and under. People who walk 2.25mph or faster, consistently lived longer than others of their age and sex who walked more slowly.
The results of this study particularly hit home personally, being a slow-ish-type walker.
"We're able to show that a person's capacity to move strongly reflects vitality and health," said study researcher Dr. Stephanie Studenski, a professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh.
The researchers did emphasize that the aim of the study wasn't to get people to walk faster or to live longer. According to Dr. Stephanie. Our bodies tell us the ideal speed appropriate for us. Actually, my body especially the legs, knees, thighs and right on down to the ankles, tend to send my brain messages to the effect, "slow her down - you're killing us!"
Still more bad news we don't want to know in that a change of walking speed won't lengthen our lives. Dr. Stephanie suggests that we need to address underlying health issues. The researchers showed they could reliably predict the 10-year survival rate of a group of people based on how fast they walked along a 4-meter track.
Track? How many "average" people use a running track, one wonders. Walking speed for those with an average life expectancy was (or is) approx. 1.8 mph, for most age groups of both sexes. So this leads one - me - to wonder how one would assess one's walking speed. Is there some type of mathematical formula or does one have to carry a pedometer while walking to ensure the correct speed? Came accross a piece on the e-How site that provides a formula as to how to calculate walking speed:
http://www.ehow.com/how_8939_estimate-walking-speed.html
The findings were based on analysis of nine previous studies that examined the walking speed, sex, age, body mass index, medical history and survival rate of almost 34,500 people.
There's a lot more statistics and information for anyone interested in the study here: http://beta.ca.news.yahoo.com/fast-walk-may-predict-long-youll-live-20110105-091802-892.html
Still, when it all said and done, walking is a great exercise. For the record, it's amazing the speed my feet travel in a mall, travelling from store-to-store, whenever there's a sale. A person has'ta do what a person has'ta to.
The study is published in the January 5 in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Posting missing cat notice a no-no in Bedford
Cat owners living in Bedford, England, better watch out where they post their "lost cat" notices if their kitty goes missing. Unfortunately, Mike Harding, owner of 7 year old Wookie, who has been missing for 6 weeks, found out the hard way having been threatened with a fine of £1,000 ($1,559 U.S. dollars) for putting up lost posters of his beloved feline on trees and street lampposts. Wookie - love that name - went missing since late November and in an attempt and hope that someone has spotted the cat, Harding posted A4-sizes posters. Upon spotting the posters, the local borough council told Harding that he was committing the dastardly offence of flyposting (this does not mean posting house flies everywhere - Wikipedia defines it here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flyposting) and to remove the posters in 48 hours or face a fine.
Oh the abomination of posting a missing cat poster!
The issue in as far as the council see it, is that the posters were nailed to trees, causing them harm. Why - did the trees complain? Furthermore, (the council) environmental team spotted more than twenty of Harding's lost cat posters, some of which were nailed to eight trees.
Ohmygawd - eight whole trees!
Understandably, an alternative to attaching posters to trees is desirable but perhaps he should be forgiven since he is obviously missing Wookie in a big way. According to a borough council member, nailing a tree pierces the bark, which in turn could allow fungal spores to break down the trees defences, leading to secondary infections. Thing is - this is a cat lover who is desperate to find his cat!
The council communicated in writing to Harding on December 22, warning him to remove said posters by 0900 on December 24. Talk about not having Christmas spirit! The desperate cat owner took them down but it was when he nailed some on telegraph poles and a couple of trees that he received a written warning. In response, Harding ran around on Christmas eve removing posters, finishing the job at 3 a.m.
"I received a call from Bedford Borough Council, which initially I thought was a prank call, asking for my address because they wanted to send me some information. I was expecting information leaflets, but instead they sent a letter warning me that I would be prosecuted if the posters weren't removed."
The council said flyposting was illegal and added it was satisfied the matter had been resolved. Maybe for the council but not for Harding, who still hasn't seen a whisker of Wookie.
Click on this link to see a photo of Wookie in case anyone sees him and his sad owner:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1343679/Pet-owner-blasts-council-lack-compassion-threatens-1-000-fine-lost-cat-poster.html
Oh the abomination of posting a missing cat poster!
The issue in as far as the council see it, is that the posters were nailed to trees, causing them harm. Why - did the trees complain? Furthermore, (the council) environmental team spotted more than twenty of Harding's lost cat posters, some of which were nailed to eight trees.
Ohmygawd - eight whole trees!
Understandably, an alternative to attaching posters to trees is desirable but perhaps he should be forgiven since he is obviously missing Wookie in a big way. According to a borough council member, nailing a tree pierces the bark, which in turn could allow fungal spores to break down the trees defences, leading to secondary infections. Thing is - this is a cat lover who is desperate to find his cat!
The council communicated in writing to Harding on December 22, warning him to remove said posters by 0900 on December 24. Talk about not having Christmas spirit! The desperate cat owner took them down but it was when he nailed some on telegraph poles and a couple of trees that he received a written warning. In response, Harding ran around on Christmas eve removing posters, finishing the job at 3 a.m.
"I received a call from Bedford Borough Council, which initially I thought was a prank call, asking for my address because they wanted to send me some information. I was expecting information leaflets, but instead they sent a letter warning me that I would be prosecuted if the posters weren't removed."
The council said flyposting was illegal and added it was satisfied the matter had been resolved. Maybe for the council but not for Harding, who still hasn't seen a whisker of Wookie.
Click on this link to see a photo of Wookie in case anyone sees him and his sad owner:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1343679/Pet-owner-blasts-council-lack-compassion-threatens-1-000-fine-lost-cat-poster.html
Monday, January 03, 2011
Blackbird update. Arkansas blackbirds met with trauma, findings indicate
Preliminary autopsy results as to the reason behind what is now estimated to be 4,000-5,000 blackbirds that mysteriously fell from the sky in Beebe, Arkansas is multiple blunt trauma to their vital organs, a state veterinarian related to NBC Monday. Initially, it was thought that fireworks were to blame but the latest findings seem to rule that out.
Personally, I'm still going with the alien theory in that visitors from another galaxy or universe or wherever, became lost and having no experience speaking with intelligent earth species, assumed the crows were a good source of information.
Thinking further, though (far too much time on my hands), the new theory makes you wonder what the crows could have encountered that could have caused such a wide-spread death.
As if Beebe and the state of Arkansas don't have enough to worry about, officials are also looking into the reason why approximately 100,000 fish turning up dead in the state's northwest. Dead drum fish were found floating in the water lining the banks of a 20-mile stretch of the Arkansas River near Ozark, 125 miles northwest of Little Rock.
As Roseanne Roseannadanna used to say: it's always something.
Personally, I'm still going with the alien theory in that visitors from another galaxy or universe or wherever, became lost and having no experience speaking with intelligent earth species, assumed the crows were a good source of information.
Thinking further, though (far too much time on my hands), the new theory makes you wonder what the crows could have encountered that could have caused such a wide-spread death.
As if Beebe and the state of Arkansas don't have enough to worry about, officials are also looking into the reason why approximately 100,000 fish turning up dead in the state's northwest. Dead drum fish were found floating in the water lining the banks of a 20-mile stretch of the Arkansas River near Ozark, 125 miles northwest of Little Rock.
As Roseanne Roseannadanna used to say: it's always something.
Oh the horror of it all! Kate Perry without makeup!
If ever there were two-faced people, it's celebrities or people whose photos are frequently featured as part of news stories. Take comedian/actor, Russell Brand - I'm sure his wife would add 'please!' - who for whatever reason, decided to post his wife, Kate Perry's photo so everyone could see. Celebrities are used to having their images everywhere and in fact, pay people to do this for them. The difference in this situation that Brand had the audacity to post Perry without makeup, and presumably, without her permission or knowledge.
Oh the shock of it all! The horror!
Let's be objective here: Perry is a talented and according to all the photos posted of her, visually appealing. However and one can only presume this, she obviously wants a certain public personna that only face cosmetics can provide.
According to reports, the photo was snapped when she first got up in the morning. I mean, how many of us would be happy if our significant-other snapped a photo and posted it where the world could review? Then again, nobody would probably care because we're not Kate Perry. In this case, Brand tweeted it on Twitter. It was not a tweet move since Perry does not like being seen, ever, sans makeup.
It's rare to see well-known s*t*a*r*s out and about at premieres or fund raisers or anywhere, actually, being themselves, baring their faces for the world to see. When they are caught off-guard doing natural things like shopping, they're usually wearing large sunglasses and hidden beneath layers of clothing.
My reaction is get over it, Kate! Thinking further, perhaps she should wear full makeup to bed, just in case. Maybe Brand wants a before-and-after photo of her.
Oh the shock of it all! The horror!
Let's be objective here: Perry is a talented and according to all the photos posted of her, visually appealing. However and one can only presume this, she obviously wants a certain public personna that only face cosmetics can provide.
According to reports, the photo was snapped when she first got up in the morning. I mean, how many of us would be happy if our significant-other snapped a photo and posted it where the world could review? Then again, nobody would probably care because we're not Kate Perry. In this case, Brand tweeted it on Twitter. It was not a tweet move since Perry does not like being seen, ever, sans makeup.
It's rare to see well-known s*t*a*r*s out and about at premieres or fund raisers or anywhere, actually, being themselves, baring their faces for the world to see. When they are caught off-guard doing natural things like shopping, they're usually wearing large sunglasses and hidden beneath layers of clothing.
My reaction is get over it, Kate! Thinking further, perhaps she should wear full makeup to bed, just in case. Maybe Brand wants a before-and-after photo of her.
Sunday, January 02, 2011
Still another way to get injured - 1000 falling dead birds
What a way to start off the New Year. This is the type of story that Alfred Hitchcock would have loved, except that it's not fiction. The next time you're going through the town of Beebe, Arkansas, perhaps it would be a good idea not to look up. Or maybe wear a hard hat.
Seems that in excess of 1,000 - wait for it - black birds suddenly and without any prior warning, dropped out of the night sky. Imagine being out on an evening stroll and suddenly being beaned by a blackbird (say that a dozen times fast).
"Excuse me (insert name of person accompanying you on a walk) blank-blank. I know that it rains cats and dogs on occasion but correct me if I'm wrong, here. It appears to be raining crows."
As expected wildlife people are working on finding some reason for them to do so. Maybe they all spotted the same piece of road kill and miscalculated its mass appeal. I mean, it's as good a reason as any but I digress.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission who is in charge of these things, commented that dead black bird reports started filtering in at 11:30 p.m. over a one mile area. An aerial survey indicated that no other dead birds were found in that area. This makes sense since any birds spotting falling or already dead crows would stay out of the area.
Ornithologist Karen Rowe said the birds showed physical trauma, and she speculated that "the flock could have been hit by lightning or high-altitude hail."
Another theory floating around is that New Year's Eve revelers shooting off fireworks in the area could have startled the birds from their roost and caused them to die from stress.
Wildlife officer, Robby King, collected approximately 65 dead birds that will be sent for testing to the state Livestock and Poultry Commission lab and the National Wildlife Health Center lab in Madison, Wis. In the end and according to Ms Rowe, she believes the tests will be 'inconclusive' and doubted that the birds were poisoned.
There's a very simple explanation. Aliens. The same one's that made those intricate corn field designs. Merely a simple case of flying in the wrong direction. This is a Stephen King novel waiting to be written. Wait a minute - hasn't he written a book about this?
For those so inclined, here is a link showing a photo of one of the deceased:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40874105/ns/us_news-environment/
Seems that in excess of 1,000 - wait for it - black birds suddenly and without any prior warning, dropped out of the night sky. Imagine being out on an evening stroll and suddenly being beaned by a blackbird (say that a dozen times fast).
"Excuse me (insert name of person accompanying you on a walk) blank-blank. I know that it rains cats and dogs on occasion but correct me if I'm wrong, here. It appears to be raining crows."
As expected wildlife people are working on finding some reason for them to do so. Maybe they all spotted the same piece of road kill and miscalculated its mass appeal. I mean, it's as good a reason as any but I digress.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission who is in charge of these things, commented that dead black bird reports started filtering in at 11:30 p.m. over a one mile area. An aerial survey indicated that no other dead birds were found in that area. This makes sense since any birds spotting falling or already dead crows would stay out of the area.
Ornithologist Karen Rowe said the birds showed physical trauma, and she speculated that "the flock could have been hit by lightning or high-altitude hail."
Another theory floating around is that New Year's Eve revelers shooting off fireworks in the area could have startled the birds from their roost and caused them to die from stress.
Wildlife officer, Robby King, collected approximately 65 dead birds that will be sent for testing to the state Livestock and Poultry Commission lab and the National Wildlife Health Center lab in Madison, Wis. In the end and according to Ms Rowe, she believes the tests will be 'inconclusive' and doubted that the birds were poisoned.
There's a very simple explanation. Aliens. The same one's that made those intricate corn field designs. Merely a simple case of flying in the wrong direction. This is a Stephen King novel waiting to be written. Wait a minute - hasn't he written a book about this?
For those so inclined, here is a link showing a photo of one of the deceased:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40874105/ns/us_news-environment/
Monday, December 27, 2010
Hugh Hefner is in love - again
Is this news we really want to know? The founder of Playboy, Hugh Hefner, who has reached the ripe old - accent on old - age of 84, is smitten to coin an old word. The object of his affection is one former Playboy Playmate, Crystal Harris, who happens to be 24 years old and a model/singer. He says he's really in love in spite of a huge (my choice of words) age difference. Interesting that in the past, Hugh has always focused his affections on former Playboy models but of course he dates these types because he enjoys their stimulating intellectual rapport. Wink-wink...but I digress.
According to Hefner, he gave Crystal a ring on Christmas Eve while the two were watching a movie. A movie - how exciting - and there's no information about which film they were watching, whether they were eating popcorn or whether Hugh fell asleep. I mean, the man is 84 after all!
The engaged couple met in 2008 at the Playboy Mansion (where else) during a Halloween party. Did I mention that Harris happens to be December 2009 Playmate and served as Playboy mag's 2010 Miss January? In an interview, Harris called living with Hefner at the Mansion 'amazing.' She also explained to anyone who would believe it that she wasn't after Hef for his money. "I have my own career going." Uh-huh...sure...
Statistically and for those people keeping track, this is the 3rd time Hef is marching to the alter. He had been dating twins Karissa and Kristina Shannon while dating Harris. Thinking ahead, when Crystal is 84, Hugh will be 144.
According to Hefner, he gave Crystal a ring on Christmas Eve while the two were watching a movie. A movie - how exciting - and there's no information about which film they were watching, whether they were eating popcorn or whether Hugh fell asleep. I mean, the man is 84 after all!
The engaged couple met in 2008 at the Playboy Mansion (where else) during a Halloween party. Did I mention that Harris happens to be December 2009 Playmate and served as Playboy mag's 2010 Miss January? In an interview, Harris called living with Hefner at the Mansion 'amazing.' She also explained to anyone who would believe it that she wasn't after Hef for his money. "I have my own career going." Uh-huh...sure...
Statistically and for those people keeping track, this is the 3rd time Hef is marching to the alter. He had been dating twins Karissa and Kristina Shannon while dating Harris. Thinking ahead, when Crystal is 84, Hugh will be 144.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Hey! It's Festivus for the rest of us
This year, wanted to make sure that the holiday of Festivus is marked on the day the holiday occurs. In previous years, somehow it slipped by without recognition until the day after. Not that it really makes a difference in the scheme of things but holidays should be celebrated on the day they take place.
For the uninformed, this holiday got its start as a segment on the still-lamented TV comedy series, "Seinfeld" with Frank Constanza, George's father, who explains the holiday this way, "many Christmases ago, I went to buy a doll for my son. I reached for the last one they had, but so did another man. As I rained blows upon him, I realized there had to be another way." The doll was destroyed but as George elaborated, "out of that a new holiday was born: a Festivus for the rest of us!"
The holiday is unique in that it includes the Airing of Grievances and Feats of Strength. Who among us hasn't or doesn't air our grienvances at some point? Speaking for myself because nobody else will, I recently aired a grievance at the supermarket, when returning rotten cheese. Don't think that the cashier was aware of the Airing of Grievances in spite of numerous attempts to explain, but she still gave me my money back. In as far as Feats of Strength are concerned, just this morning I brought a trash bag filled to capacity to the disposal shoot and tossed it in. Two days ago I walked along a slush-filled sidewalk ignoring the option to walk on the cleared road. These are feats, friends!
Last but certainly not least, there's the Festivus Pole, in which an un-decorated aluminum pole is displayed in place of a Christmas tree. One could, if one felt moved, dance around the pole or perhaps - just a thought - string up some cord and hang laundry.
So once the binge-watching of TV series has lost its charm and all the gifts are wrapped, and the cat has re-decorated the tree as only cats can do, get the gang together and hold hands singing around the Festivus pole. Why? Why not?
Grievances aired, are you listening,
At the dinner, meatloaf is glistening.
A beautiful sight, we're happy tonight.
It's Festivus all across the land.
Standing there, is an old pole,
Unadorned, it is a strong pole.
It stands straight and tall,
As we go along,
It's Festivus all across the land.
In the Living Room we can wrestle,
And try to pin the head of the house.
He'll say: Are you ready?
We'll say: No, man.
But we will do our best
To pin him down.
Later on, we'll conspire,
As we air grievances by the fire.
To face unafraid,
The gripes we have made,
It's Festivus all across the land.
For the uninformed, this holiday got its start as a segment on the still-lamented TV comedy series, "Seinfeld" with Frank Constanza, George's father, who explains the holiday this way, "many Christmases ago, I went to buy a doll for my son. I reached for the last one they had, but so did another man. As I rained blows upon him, I realized there had to be another way." The doll was destroyed but as George elaborated, "out of that a new holiday was born: a Festivus for the rest of us!"
The holiday is unique in that it includes the Airing of Grievances and Feats of Strength. Who among us hasn't or doesn't air our grienvances at some point? Speaking for myself because nobody else will, I recently aired a grievance at the supermarket, when returning rotten cheese. Don't think that the cashier was aware of the Airing of Grievances in spite of numerous attempts to explain, but she still gave me my money back. In as far as Feats of Strength are concerned, just this morning I brought a trash bag filled to capacity to the disposal shoot and tossed it in. Two days ago I walked along a slush-filled sidewalk ignoring the option to walk on the cleared road. These are feats, friends!
Last but certainly not least, there's the Festivus Pole, in which an un-decorated aluminum pole is displayed in place of a Christmas tree. One could, if one felt moved, dance around the pole or perhaps - just a thought - string up some cord and hang laundry.
So once the binge-watching of TV series has lost its charm and all the gifts are wrapped, and the cat has re-decorated the tree as only cats can do, get the gang together and hold hands singing around the Festivus pole. Why? Why not?
It's Festivus all Across the Land
(Sung to the tune of "Winter Wonderland")Grievances aired, are you listening,
At the dinner, meatloaf is glistening.
A beautiful sight, we're happy tonight.
It's Festivus all across the land.
Standing there, is an old pole,
Unadorned, it is a strong pole.
It stands straight and tall,
As we go along,
It's Festivus all across the land.
In the Living Room we can wrestle,
And try to pin the head of the house.
He'll say: Are you ready?
We'll say: No, man.
But we will do our best
To pin him down.
Later on, we'll conspire,
As we air grievances by the fire.
To face unafraid,
The gripes we have made,
It's Festivus all across the land.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Two tweeters no longer like me
Today's blog is on the short and not-to-sweet side. Somehow and according to my Twitter page stats, two tweeters have dropped me. This has got me wondering first of all, who are they and secondly, what was their motivation.
Sharing tweets that strike the imagination of tweeters is a challenge in itself and it's nice when people find one (me) interesting enough to follow one(me again). However...it's also somewhat blechy discovering one has been dropped. One explanation might be that the new tweeter-ers followed me and I didn't reciprocate. It was a twitter social faux-pas. I can live with it.
Another possibility is that perhaps my subject matter didn't interest them. I mean, my tweets do cover life's more quirky stories like road kill calendars, cheese rolling events, Paul the octopus demise, a woman marrying herself...but also more staid commentaries including celebrities being and acting like celebrities. I like diverse subjects.
So the two tweeter who dropped me will miss out on all my creative commentary and witty repartee. Their loss. Plenty more tweeters 'out there' somewhere waiting to be my friend. Y'a wanna be my friend?
Sharing tweets that strike the imagination of tweeters is a challenge in itself and it's nice when people find one (me) interesting enough to follow one(me again). However...it's also somewhat blechy discovering one has been dropped. One explanation might be that the new tweeter-ers followed me and I didn't reciprocate. It was a twitter social faux-pas. I can live with it.
Another possibility is that perhaps my subject matter didn't interest them. I mean, my tweets do cover life's more quirky stories like road kill calendars, cheese rolling events, Paul the octopus demise, a woman marrying herself...but also more staid commentaries including celebrities being and acting like celebrities. I like diverse subjects.
So the two tweeter who dropped me will miss out on all my creative commentary and witty repartee. Their loss. Plenty more tweeters 'out there' somewhere waiting to be my friend. Y'a wanna be my friend?
Monday, December 20, 2010
My tweet level ain't so tweet
As if I don't have enough Twitter-related complexes to deal with what with Twitter losing my followers count a while back and now something new has been added to the equation.
Seems that a tweet-er (always makes me feel like a bird, somehow) can now, if she/he really wants to know, find out her tweet rating in comparison to other famous and regular tweet-ers. Thinking further, I should never have clicked on to Tweet Level and definitely should not have looked into my rating. Ignorance is bliss and all that. However, curiousity got the better of me or perhaps it was merely ego.
It's very simple. All one has to do is to type or key in one's name in the tweet level box and then depress the calculate button or whatever you wanna call it. The results are broken down into four categories and in my case here aer the results:
Influence 30.1
Popularity 29.7
Engagement 25.6
Trust 14
According to the accompanying explanation blurb, my Influence Score could increase if I followed more people and get them to tweet more to me, presumably, take part in conversations, post interesting content and express whatever is on my mind (no help needed in the latter). Here I thought I was doing to pretty good job! There have been opportunities where people have followed me in an attempt to get me to follow them. Thing is, many are obvious and overt business promotions that don't interest me. If I don't follow them, they almost always drop me. Oh well - I can live with it!
Moving on, my Popularity Score is low and based on how many followers I have and the lists my name is included on.
"Many Twitter measurement tools purely rank people according to this metric, however just because someone is popular doesn't mean they are influential," the Tweet Level whatever relates. It suggests that my popularity could be increased if I follow people who are relevant to the areas that I find interesting. Perhaps, but even with people with whom there is commonality doesn't necessarily mean their level of interest warrants me as a follower.
See what I mean? Yet more Twitter-related angst.
Seems that my Engagement score is low due to the means in which I interact with my community and offers a reminder that Twitter is about conversations. Interesting conversations.
"Take the time to know the people who follow you and contribute to the many interesting discussions out there," is their suggestion. In other words and IMHO, jump in on any and all on-going conversations, no matter what the subject and/or the inane comments posted.
My Trust score is low so I'm informed, because my content tweeted is "either not credible, interesting or newsworthy." Oh goody - such positive feedback! The Edelman Trust Barometer whoever or whatever they are, states that 77% of people refused to buy products or services from a company they distrusted. Thing is - I'm not selling a product as many of the tweeters appear to do.
"Trust can be measured by the number of times someone is happy to associate what you have said through them – in other words, how often you are re-tweeted. To increase your trust score create more posts that will give your followers a reason to retweet what you have said."
And so we go around and around and around in circles.
I dunno. When it's all said and done or written, the bottom line is don't look for trouble and stay away from gadgets that will tell you what you don't want to know. I'll just wait for the right tweeters to come along and follow me for the right reasons, whoever they are.
BTW and for the record, top Tweeters are KhloeKardashian has an influence rating of 92.9, The Ellen Show rates 99.6 in popularity and Justin Bieber has a 100% popularity rating.
Seems that a tweet-er (always makes me feel like a bird, somehow) can now, if she/he really wants to know, find out her tweet rating in comparison to other famous and regular tweet-ers. Thinking further, I should never have clicked on to Tweet Level and definitely should not have looked into my rating. Ignorance is bliss and all that. However, curiousity got the better of me or perhaps it was merely ego.
It's very simple. All one has to do is to type or key in one's name in the tweet level box and then depress the calculate button or whatever you wanna call it. The results are broken down into four categories and in my case here aer the results:
Influence 30.1
Popularity 29.7
Engagement 25.6
Trust 14
According to the accompanying explanation blurb, my Influence Score could increase if I followed more people and get them to tweet more to me, presumably, take part in conversations, post interesting content and express whatever is on my mind (no help needed in the latter). Here I thought I was doing to pretty good job! There have been opportunities where people have followed me in an attempt to get me to follow them. Thing is, many are obvious and overt business promotions that don't interest me. If I don't follow them, they almost always drop me. Oh well - I can live with it!
Moving on, my Popularity Score is low and based on how many followers I have and the lists my name is included on.
"Many Twitter measurement tools purely rank people according to this metric, however just because someone is popular doesn't mean they are influential," the Tweet Level whatever relates. It suggests that my popularity could be increased if I follow people who are relevant to the areas that I find interesting. Perhaps, but even with people with whom there is commonality doesn't necessarily mean their level of interest warrants me as a follower.
See what I mean? Yet more Twitter-related angst.
Seems that my Engagement score is low due to the means in which I interact with my community and offers a reminder that Twitter is about conversations. Interesting conversations.
"Take the time to know the people who follow you and contribute to the many interesting discussions out there," is their suggestion. In other words and IMHO, jump in on any and all on-going conversations, no matter what the subject and/or the inane comments posted.
My Trust score is low so I'm informed, because my content tweeted is "either not credible, interesting or newsworthy." Oh goody - such positive feedback! The Edelman Trust Barometer whoever or whatever they are, states that 77% of people refused to buy products or services from a company they distrusted. Thing is - I'm not selling a product as many of the tweeters appear to do.
"Trust can be measured by the number of times someone is happy to associate what you have said through them – in other words, how often you are re-tweeted. To increase your trust score create more posts that will give your followers a reason to retweet what you have said."
And so we go around and around and around in circles.
I dunno. When it's all said and done or written, the bottom line is don't look for trouble and stay away from gadgets that will tell you what you don't want to know. I'll just wait for the right tweeters to come along and follow me for the right reasons, whoever they are.
BTW and for the record, top Tweeters are KhloeKardashian has an influence rating of 92.9, The Ellen Show rates 99.6 in popularity and Justin Bieber has a 100% popularity rating.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Cleaning up on toilet etiquette
For most of us a bathroom serves as a utilitarian tool in which to perform certain bodily functions and then we depart. It doesn't rate as a primary focus in as far as the surrounding utilities are concerned. On the other hand using a public bathroom can be a somewhat daunting experience especially when cleanliness is an issue. In some coutries, bathroom etiquette plays an important role in society. Take Singapore for example, who recently launched the public campaign, LOO or Let's Observe Ourselves, in an effort to clean up its public bathroom image. Taking those three words at face value and given the subject being bathrooms... but I digress. Anyway...
Having 30,000 public washrooms, the city-state is making a conservative effort to make 70% of them 'three-star-clean' by the year 2013. In a survey conducted by the Restroom Association (Singapore), only 500 of their toilets overall were up to standards that include working facilities (presumably referring to toilets that flush and/or don't over-flow), lack of visible trash and odor and the presence of hand soap and toilet paper or hand dryer. Speaking/writing of electric hand-dryers, why is it that so many public washrooms use hand dryers that make a lot of noise but have barely any air, hot or cold, to dry hands? It's easier to use toilet paper that ends up sticking to wet hands but again I digress.
RAS President, Tan Puay Hoon, told reporters at a press conference that in Singapore culture, toilets indicate how civilized the population is. Actually, the state of toilets anywhere and everywhere says something about a given society. In visiting various countries in Europe, I've come across facilities that include a drain in the middle of a tiled floor to relieve oneself. The first assumption was that the toilet had been removed for whatever reason but then after checking with the owner of said bathroom it appears that one squats and... You get the picture.
The RAS rates toilets from three to five stars depending on the quality of the facilities. For example, a four star toilet would have a diaper-changing place or urinal for children, whereas a five-star rating would have eco-friendly features like water-saving taps.
To call attention to its 3-year blueprint on public restroom and a public awareness program, the RAS launched LOO@Heartlands -- the first coffee shop with a five-star toilet. The RAS said it would also distribute packets of pocket paper with restroom how-to etiquette messages to toilet users during peak hours at shops nearby.
The RAS was founded in 1998 as a non-profit organization and says it is dedicated to promoting the cleanliness, design and functionality of public toilets in Singapore.
The LOO Campaign began in 2008. The RAS has also conducted the Happy Toilet School education program and is a founding member of the World Toilet Organization and the Keep Singapore Beautiful Movement.
When it comes to bathrooms, Singapore wants to be flushing with pride. Don't we all?
Having 30,000 public washrooms, the city-state is making a conservative effort to make 70% of them 'three-star-clean' by the year 2013. In a survey conducted by the Restroom Association (Singapore), only 500 of their toilets overall were up to standards that include working facilities (presumably referring to toilets that flush and/or don't over-flow), lack of visible trash and odor and the presence of hand soap and toilet paper or hand dryer. Speaking/writing of electric hand-dryers, why is it that so many public washrooms use hand dryers that make a lot of noise but have barely any air, hot or cold, to dry hands? It's easier to use toilet paper that ends up sticking to wet hands but again I digress.
RAS President, Tan Puay Hoon, told reporters at a press conference that in Singapore culture, toilets indicate how civilized the population is. Actually, the state of toilets anywhere and everywhere says something about a given society. In visiting various countries in Europe, I've come across facilities that include a drain in the middle of a tiled floor to relieve oneself. The first assumption was that the toilet had been removed for whatever reason but then after checking with the owner of said bathroom it appears that one squats and... You get the picture.
The RAS rates toilets from three to five stars depending on the quality of the facilities. For example, a four star toilet would have a diaper-changing place or urinal for children, whereas a five-star rating would have eco-friendly features like water-saving taps.
To call attention to its 3-year blueprint on public restroom and a public awareness program, the RAS launched LOO@Heartlands -- the first coffee shop with a five-star toilet. The RAS said it would also distribute packets of pocket paper with restroom how-to etiquette messages to toilet users during peak hours at shops nearby.
The RAS was founded in 1998 as a non-profit organization and says it is dedicated to promoting the cleanliness, design and functionality of public toilets in Singapore.
The LOO Campaign began in 2008. The RAS has also conducted the Happy Toilet School education program and is a founding member of the World Toilet Organization and the Keep Singapore Beautiful Movement.
When it comes to bathrooms, Singapore wants to be flushing with pride. Don't we all?
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Stuff you need to know...like...whatever
It's one of those surveys that make you wonder how they reach these conclusions. More to the point, why did poll takers bother going around asking Americans what their most annoying word is. In the end, will it have any effect, anyway?
Again for the second consecutive year no less, the word 'whatever' topped a Marist poll for being the most annoying word or phrase in the English language. Who wants to know this and why?
To discover the answer to this question, one must go to the source of the question, the Marist Poll, for a further explanation. To break it down, 39% of Americans actually despise(!) the word followed by 'like' coming in at 28%. Following close behind, 'you-know-what-I-mean' is deemed the biggest verbal gaffe by 15% of the population. Close on the heels is 'to-tell-you-the-truth' at 10% and 'actually' is irritating to a mere 5% of the population.
Come to think of it (a term I use very often and probably bugs a lot of people) these are phrases that most people utter regularly. My choice is you-know-what-I-mean. There is something about that phrase...
Interestingly, among younger Americans in the 18 to 29 category, 44% wouldn't mind if 'like' was eliminated for everyday conversation, while 37% of those in the 30-44 age category claim the usage of the word 'whatever' bothers them the most. Finishing it off, 46% of Americans in the 45-59 age group and 40% of those in the 60 years old category agree.
In case anyone was wondering, "The Marist Institute for Public Opinion (MIPO) is a survey research center at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York. Founded in 1978, MIPO is home to the Marist Poll and regularly measures public opinion at the local, state, and national level. The Marist Poll is highly respected and is often cited by journalists and analysts around the globe."
Your most annonying word(s)?
Whatever...
Again for the second consecutive year no less, the word 'whatever' topped a Marist poll for being the most annoying word or phrase in the English language. Who wants to know this and why?
To discover the answer to this question, one must go to the source of the question, the Marist Poll, for a further explanation. To break it down, 39% of Americans actually despise(!) the word followed by 'like' coming in at 28%. Following close behind, 'you-know-what-I-mean' is deemed the biggest verbal gaffe by 15% of the population. Close on the heels is 'to-tell-you-the-truth' at 10% and 'actually' is irritating to a mere 5% of the population.
Come to think of it (a term I use very often and probably bugs a lot of people) these are phrases that most people utter regularly. My choice is you-know-what-I-mean. There is something about that phrase...
Interestingly, among younger Americans in the 18 to 29 category, 44% wouldn't mind if 'like' was eliminated for everyday conversation, while 37% of those in the 30-44 age category claim the usage of the word 'whatever' bothers them the most. Finishing it off, 46% of Americans in the 45-59 age group and 40% of those in the 60 years old category agree.
In case anyone was wondering, "The Marist Institute for Public Opinion (MIPO) is a survey research center at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York. Founded in 1978, MIPO is home to the Marist Poll and regularly measures public opinion at the local, state, and national level. The Marist Poll is highly respected and is often cited by journalists and analysts around the globe."
Your most annonying word(s)?
Whatever...
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Ach - der pooches not part of separation package
Couples who are extended family to pets don't always if rarely think about setting out legal agreements and visitation rights when it comes to the non-human family member(s), especially when in cases of separation leading to divorce.
This became a legal issue in Germany when a woman filed suit to get visition rights to see the former couple's dog. You read it right: their dog.
In the suit the former wife attempted to force her estranged husband to give her visiting rights to their pooch, which they had acquired during their marriage, on a regular basis. They had agreed as part of the separation that the husband would have custody of the dog but the woman wanted to increase visiting to twice per week.
In response, the former husband objected and the court found that while separated spouses have a right to a fair division of property, this did not include joint custody of pets.
In their edict, the court decided that "rules applying to visitation rights for a child do not apply here. Under such arrangements, the primary concern is the welfare of the child and not the emotional needs of the other spouse."
Given all the problems in the world i.e. poverty, starvation, homelessness, etc. couples fight over pet visition rights? Seems to me that the husband was using the dog as means in which to get back at his former wife. Could they both not have agreed that she could see the dog in a neutral place i.e. veterinarian's office or pet shop... If only our pets could speak, what stories they would tell.
This became a legal issue in Germany when a woman filed suit to get visition rights to see the former couple's dog. You read it right: their dog.
In the suit the former wife attempted to force her estranged husband to give her visiting rights to their pooch, which they had acquired during their marriage, on a regular basis. They had agreed as part of the separation that the husband would have custody of the dog but the woman wanted to increase visiting to twice per week.
In response, the former husband objected and the court found that while separated spouses have a right to a fair division of property, this did not include joint custody of pets.
In their edict, the court decided that "rules applying to visitation rights for a child do not apply here. Under such arrangements, the primary concern is the welfare of the child and not the emotional needs of the other spouse."
Given all the problems in the world i.e. poverty, starvation, homelessness, etc. couples fight over pet visition rights? Seems to me that the husband was using the dog as means in which to get back at his former wife. Could they both not have agreed that she could see the dog in a neutral place i.e. veterinarian's office or pet shop... If only our pets could speak, what stories they would tell.
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Kate Gosselin was not a happy camper but Sarah Palin was!
Like many TV viewers, "Jon & Kate Plus 8" was on my TV grid as a program to watch. Seeing the Gosselin brood mature from diaperhood to cutesy performing TV kiddies was fun. The fun ended when the parents started acting like children but that as they say, is another story.
In any case, Kate Gosselin and her youthful brood has moved on and the now glamorous Hollywood-type mom has her own TLC specials. Most recently and definitely not coincidentally, she ended up in Alaska.
Just so happens that aspiring political candidate, nature lover/hunter, Sarah Palin, who hails from Alaska, also has her own TLC TV series promoting her home state.
Kate meet Sarah - Sarah meet Kate. Do you see a ratings boost?
It was a natural match-up when the TLC powers-that-be decided to have Kate and her gang visit Alaska and meet up with Sarah. Thing is, things didn't go exactly as planned.
Some people are outdoorsy and some of us just aren't - I'm in the latter category - and Kate proved that her inner-camper just wasn't 'there.' Initially, Kate and Sarah bond focusing on the bad media but as time goes on, things take a negative turn.
In the way of an introduction to the wild Alaska wilderness, Sarah brings Kate to a bear safety class to prepare her in the event of a personal meet up during their camping trip. To make matters worse, it was pouring rain, which doesn't help one's disposition. Palin, obviously used to the terrain, was loaded for bear unlike Kate who was colder than... Really, cold.
"I'm not worrying about bears right now," she kvetched. "I'm just worried about keeping my toes wiggling 'cause they're freezing."
Hey - as a Canadian, I know where you're coming from, Kate!
The Gosselin kids, however had great fun while Kate took refuge under the tarp and the Palin family being used to the wild, revelled in the experience. After a meal of burgers and hotdogs - the burgers by the way were moose - Kate had enough. This after a few hours after their introduction to the wild Alaska wilderness.
Kate departed with her offspring in tow and Palin, ever the politician and show personality commented: "Well, I thought we were gonna go camping with the Gosselins," she says when it's all over, full of glossy good cheer. "Turned out, we didn't. We had lunch with them on a sand bar."
Oh well - they'll always have Alaska.
In any case, Kate Gosselin and her youthful brood has moved on and the now glamorous Hollywood-type mom has her own TLC specials. Most recently and definitely not coincidentally, she ended up in Alaska.
Just so happens that aspiring political candidate, nature lover/hunter, Sarah Palin, who hails from Alaska, also has her own TLC TV series promoting her home state.
Kate meet Sarah - Sarah meet Kate. Do you see a ratings boost?
It was a natural match-up when the TLC powers-that-be decided to have Kate and her gang visit Alaska and meet up with Sarah. Thing is, things didn't go exactly as planned.
Some people are outdoorsy and some of us just aren't - I'm in the latter category - and Kate proved that her inner-camper just wasn't 'there.' Initially, Kate and Sarah bond focusing on the bad media but as time goes on, things take a negative turn.
In the way of an introduction to the wild Alaska wilderness, Sarah brings Kate to a bear safety class to prepare her in the event of a personal meet up during their camping trip. To make matters worse, it was pouring rain, which doesn't help one's disposition. Palin, obviously used to the terrain, was loaded for bear unlike Kate who was colder than... Really, cold.
"I'm not worrying about bears right now," she kvetched. "I'm just worried about keeping my toes wiggling 'cause they're freezing."
Hey - as a Canadian, I know where you're coming from, Kate!
The Gosselin kids, however had great fun while Kate took refuge under the tarp and the Palin family being used to the wild, revelled in the experience. After a meal of burgers and hotdogs - the burgers by the way were moose - Kate had enough. This after a few hours after their introduction to the wild Alaska wilderness.
Kate departed with her offspring in tow and Palin, ever the politician and show personality commented: "Well, I thought we were gonna go camping with the Gosselins," she says when it's all over, full of glossy good cheer. "Turned out, we didn't. We had lunch with them on a sand bar."
Oh well - they'll always have Alaska.
Saturday, December 04, 2010
Winter weirdness syndrome - of snowmen and Christmas lights
It's snow joke (excuse the pun) that Europe is struggling with an unusually brutal early winter with copious amounts of snow resulting in closed schools, traffic snarls and people generally experiencing difficulties dealing with an unusual situation. Perhaps it's the white-ness of the snow or something that can cause a temporary brain freeze.
As if the police don't have enough problems dealing with emergency phone calls, a woman living in Kent, England, called the local police to report - wait for it - a missing snowman. According to the caller who appears to be the snowman creator, she hadn't checked on the snowman for five hours. Just thinking...why is it always a snowMAN and not a snowWOMAN? Perhaps the term snow-person is an option but I digress. In her absence, the snowman disappeared she claimed. This leads one to question whether this was a crank phone call but the police certainly were not amused. I mean when you think about it - really - who would steal and snowman and why? There's enough snow to go around for everyone to make their own snowperson.
"This call could have cost someone's life if there was a genuine emergency and they couldn't get through. It was completely irresponsible,' said Chief Inspector Simon Black.
Had to be some type of brain freeze that caused temporary shut down of her brain.
Then there are the people who use the holiday of Christmas to explore their inner decorator. Take Mike Babick for example - neighbors would add - somebody please - who each year goes all out and then some, decorating the exterior of his home with lots of lights and holiday figures that draws people from near and far to gawk. His home located in Kansas City displays in excess of a thousand figures housed in display cases on his roof top, no less. The display, which takes a month to set up, draws 250,000 visitors and he knows since he installed a vehicle-counter on his street.
So imagine 250,000 visitors arriving on a regular basis to stare at the display, including limos and busses(!).
In response to complaints from thirty residents, police made Babick's block temporarily a one-way street, posting no-parking signs, but the multitudes still come, some of whom park in private driveways.
Here's a sample of Mike's artistry for the world to see, captured on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyKlEYuTklE
Did someone say there's an energy shortage? Clark Griswold would be proud.
As if the police don't have enough problems dealing with emergency phone calls, a woman living in Kent, England, called the local police to report - wait for it - a missing snowman. According to the caller who appears to be the snowman creator, she hadn't checked on the snowman for five hours. Just thinking...why is it always a snowMAN and not a snowWOMAN? Perhaps the term snow-person is an option but I digress. In her absence, the snowman disappeared she claimed. This leads one to question whether this was a crank phone call but the police certainly were not amused. I mean when you think about it - really - who would steal and snowman and why? There's enough snow to go around for everyone to make their own snowperson.
"This call could have cost someone's life if there was a genuine emergency and they couldn't get through. It was completely irresponsible,' said Chief Inspector Simon Black.
Had to be some type of brain freeze that caused temporary shut down of her brain.
Then there are the people who use the holiday of Christmas to explore their inner decorator. Take Mike Babick for example - neighbors would add - somebody please - who each year goes all out and then some, decorating the exterior of his home with lots of lights and holiday figures that draws people from near and far to gawk. His home located in Kansas City displays in excess of a thousand figures housed in display cases on his roof top, no less. The display, which takes a month to set up, draws 250,000 visitors and he knows since he installed a vehicle-counter on his street.
So imagine 250,000 visitors arriving on a regular basis to stare at the display, including limos and busses(!).
In response to complaints from thirty residents, police made Babick's block temporarily a one-way street, posting no-parking signs, but the multitudes still come, some of whom park in private driveways.
Here's a sample of Mike's artistry for the world to see, captured on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyKlEYuTklE
Did someone say there's an energy shortage? Clark Griswold would be proud.
Friday, December 03, 2010
Not that much strength in numbers, alas
As a blogger with six blogs no less, I've frequently pondered as to who reads my literary output. Now I know.
Relatively recently, Blogger introduced or maybe it was always there and I never took advantage of it, statistics pertaining to the who, what and where of people reading my blogs. There is an option to turn it off if I want but somehow there's a compulsion to know who's "out there" in cyberland. In retrospect, perhaps I should have clicked on the "don't track your own page views" option. Actually, I've never been big on statistics anyway and have trouble interpreting their meaning. What are numbers, anyway, in the big scheme of things? Right?
In any case, statistics indicate that this blog, Gimme a Break, is the most viewed out of the six since IMHO, it focuses on the quirky, irrelevant yet interesting people, places and things that make life interesting. For example, 330 people dropped by for whatever reason for the entire month of November 2010, while in the "all time history" category, there were 648 page views since its inception. Furthermore, people living in the U.S. frequented the blog most often followed by the Netherlands, Russia, Canada, Germany...etc. Your presence was and is much appreciated, people! This is my favorite blog because it always amazes me how many bizarre and interesting things and people 'out there' on planet earth, waiting to be brought to the attention of readers. It's also the blog in which I express my rants and raves and get things off my chest, so to speak.
The next two in popularity is Note to Myself and A. Playwright's Rambling, the latter devoted to my quest to get any of my plays produced and a means in which to express my angst and frustration, thereof. All this is to say - or write - that ignorance is bliss and some things are best left alone. As a blogger the purpose of sharing our views is the hope that someone, somewhere on this planet, appreciates or finds them interesting. The stats are also an indication as to the popularity of a subject and which subjects interest people.
My newest addition is Starting Over, a fiction story focusing on Sheila, who leaves her hockey-crazed husband to start over, hence the title. It started out strong with regular installments but somehow lost steam along the way. Number-wise, 103 people dropped by in total to read the continuing saga, a cross between a romance story and a soap opera, and 14 people dropped by last month. I suppose if the numbers indicated there was an interest, the story would continue. Then there's a gardening blog, Living in Condoville, a light-hearted look that examines the ups and downs of condo living with names changed to protect the guilty,
So there we have it. To look or not to look - that is the question. I mean, how could I not want to know whose reading this?
Relatively recently, Blogger introduced or maybe it was always there and I never took advantage of it, statistics pertaining to the who, what and where of people reading my blogs. There is an option to turn it off if I want but somehow there's a compulsion to know who's "out there" in cyberland. In retrospect, perhaps I should have clicked on the "don't track your own page views" option. Actually, I've never been big on statistics anyway and have trouble interpreting their meaning. What are numbers, anyway, in the big scheme of things? Right?
In any case, statistics indicate that this blog, Gimme a Break, is the most viewed out of the six since IMHO, it focuses on the quirky, irrelevant yet interesting people, places and things that make life interesting. For example, 330 people dropped by for whatever reason for the entire month of November 2010, while in the "all time history" category, there were 648 page views since its inception. Furthermore, people living in the U.S. frequented the blog most often followed by the Netherlands, Russia, Canada, Germany...etc. Your presence was and is much appreciated, people! This is my favorite blog because it always amazes me how many bizarre and interesting things and people 'out there' on planet earth, waiting to be brought to the attention of readers. It's also the blog in which I express my rants and raves and get things off my chest, so to speak.
The next two in popularity is Note to Myself and A. Playwright's Rambling, the latter devoted to my quest to get any of my plays produced and a means in which to express my angst and frustration, thereof. All this is to say - or write - that ignorance is bliss and some things are best left alone. As a blogger the purpose of sharing our views is the hope that someone, somewhere on this planet, appreciates or finds them interesting. The stats are also an indication as to the popularity of a subject and which subjects interest people.
My newest addition is Starting Over, a fiction story focusing on Sheila, who leaves her hockey-crazed husband to start over, hence the title. It started out strong with regular installments but somehow lost steam along the way. Number-wise, 103 people dropped by in total to read the continuing saga, a cross between a romance story and a soap opera, and 14 people dropped by last month. I suppose if the numbers indicated there was an interest, the story would continue. Then there's a gardening blog, Living in Condoville, a light-hearted look that examines the ups and downs of condo living with names changed to protect the guilty,
So there we have it. To look or not to look - that is the question. I mean, how could I not want to know whose reading this?
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Do They Know It's Christmas hits a sour note with Bob Geldof
I dunno. If I was a talented song writer and performer like Bob Geldof, I'd be thrilled that my songs were being heard - and played - and appreciated by music lovers all over the planet. However, this isn't the case.
In fact Geldof regrets in a big way having even written "Do They Know It's Christmas" and "We Are the World" since they are sung, played and heard, everywhere, even the supermarkets and therein lies the problem.
"I am responsible for two of the worst songs in history. One is 'Do They Know It's Christmas? The other one is 'We Are The World,' he told Australia's Daily Telegraph. "Any day soon, I will go to the supermarket, head to the meat counter and it will be playing. Every [expletive] Christmas."
Yes Bob - I admit I heard it recently while shopping in a mall and mentally sang along. What can I say? I'm crass.
Geldof wrote the songs with Midge Ure for the now famous Band Aid in 1984 but he gets up tight when carolers perform the hit in front of his house during Christmas.
Hey Bob - that is the ultimate honor! Not to be over-looked is the attention the songs brought to starving people in a part of the world that most likely wouldn't have received help.
"They think 'Do They Know It's Christmas?' is as old as 'Silent Night,'" Geldof went on to say. "Sometimes I think that's wild because I wrote it. Or else I am thinking how much I want them to stop because they are doing it really badly."
Oh please, Mr. Geldof! Me thinks the writer/singer doth protest too much. Given the popularity of both songs, it's unlikely that both will be removed from the play list during holiday time. Get over it and savor the success is my reaction!
In fact Geldof regrets in a big way having even written "Do They Know It's Christmas" and "We Are the World" since they are sung, played and heard, everywhere, even the supermarkets and therein lies the problem.
"I am responsible for two of the worst songs in history. One is 'Do They Know It's Christmas? The other one is 'We Are The World,' he told Australia's Daily Telegraph. "Any day soon, I will go to the supermarket, head to the meat counter and it will be playing. Every [expletive] Christmas."
Yes Bob - I admit I heard it recently while shopping in a mall and mentally sang along. What can I say? I'm crass.
Geldof wrote the songs with Midge Ure for the now famous Band Aid in 1984 but he gets up tight when carolers perform the hit in front of his house during Christmas.
Hey Bob - that is the ultimate honor! Not to be over-looked is the attention the songs brought to starving people in a part of the world that most likely wouldn't have received help.
"They think 'Do They Know It's Christmas?' is as old as 'Silent Night,'" Geldof went on to say. "Sometimes I think that's wild because I wrote it. Or else I am thinking how much I want them to stop because they are doing it really badly."
Oh please, Mr. Geldof! Me thinks the writer/singer doth protest too much. Given the popularity of both songs, it's unlikely that both will be removed from the play list during holiday time. Get over it and savor the success is my reaction!
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Talking turkey - do not baste with kitty litter
The holiday of Thanksgiving for those people who celebrate has passed but on its heels so to speak, is Christmas. Both holidays focus on family gatherings and sitting down (or standing as the case may be) for a festive meal with turkey as the main course. Turkey being poultry requires that certain precautions be taken when cooking the bird with some people unsure of how to go about it. This is when the Butterball turkey group who are in the business of selling turkeys and other things fowl, step in to help people out. On a personal observation, there are a lot of human turkeys I've come across in my life but I digress.
The company has set up a consumers Turkey Talk Line in which people can consult for any and all turkey-related issues. Questions can arise like how long should one roast a 25 lb. bird, or how large a turkey to buy for a party of 15 people. Normal, every day questions. Then there are issues that don't fall into the mundane, run-of-the-mill category.
For example after checking his father's freezer, a man from Alabama consulted with the Talk Line to find out about the best way to cook a 30 and then years old-ish bird. It was suggested that perhaps a good way to begin would be to buy a new turkey.
- A woman in her 70's who was cooking Thanksgiving dinner for the first time, called for assistance after her mother(!) told her that she was tired of preparing the big meal and it was time that her daughter learned how. O-kay...whatever...
- Then there's the woman who couldn't figure out why her turkey had no breast meat and was told that her turkey was merely upside down. Or a first-timer who was sobbing her heart out after thawing her turkey and rinsing it in dish soap no less and couldn't get rid of the suds from the bird. At least there would be clean cuts.
- There's oil - and then there's oil a man who called to say that he had cut his turkey in half using a chainsaw and wondered if the oil from the chain would affect the turkey.
Any and all turkey-related questions covering all categories are answered by a team of presumably turkey experts at the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line, a free 24-hour, call-in hot line. It's open to residents living in the U.S. and Canada throughout November and December by calling 1-800-BUTTERBALL. There is a plethora of information for everyone focusing on everything turkey - and then some:
http://www.butterball.com/contact-us#faqs
By the way, I recall a while back somebody forgetting to remove the bag of giblets from inside the turkey cavity and roasting them. Gave it that je ne sais quoi flavor. Thinking further, it just could have been me.
My favorite turkey-related question was posed by a woman who wanted to know if it was all right to cook her turkey on a bed of cat litter. Only if she asks the cat permission.
The company has set up a consumers Turkey Talk Line in which people can consult for any and all turkey-related issues. Questions can arise like how long should one roast a 25 lb. bird, or how large a turkey to buy for a party of 15 people. Normal, every day questions. Then there are issues that don't fall into the mundane, run-of-the-mill category.
For example after checking his father's freezer, a man from Alabama consulted with the Talk Line to find out about the best way to cook a 30 and then years old-ish bird. It was suggested that perhaps a good way to begin would be to buy a new turkey.
- A woman in her 70's who was cooking Thanksgiving dinner for the first time, called for assistance after her mother(!) told her that she was tired of preparing the big meal and it was time that her daughter learned how. O-kay...whatever...
- Then there's the woman who couldn't figure out why her turkey had no breast meat and was told that her turkey was merely upside down. Or a first-timer who was sobbing her heart out after thawing her turkey and rinsing it in dish soap no less and couldn't get rid of the suds from the bird. At least there would be clean cuts.
- There's oil - and then there's oil a man who called to say that he had cut his turkey in half using a chainsaw and wondered if the oil from the chain would affect the turkey.
Any and all turkey-related questions covering all categories are answered by a team of presumably turkey experts at the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line, a free 24-hour, call-in hot line. It's open to residents living in the U.S. and Canada throughout November and December by calling 1-800-BUTTERBALL. There is a plethora of information for everyone focusing on everything turkey - and then some:
http://www.butterball.com/contact-us#faqs
By the way, I recall a while back somebody forgetting to remove the bag of giblets from inside the turkey cavity and roasting them. Gave it that je ne sais quoi flavor. Thinking further, it just could have been me.
My favorite turkey-related question was posed by a woman who wanted to know if it was all right to cook her turkey on a bed of cat litter. Only if she asks the cat permission.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Ohmygawd - what next? Road kill calendar - that's what!
I despair - again.
Many of us have have calendars with "normal" photos like smiling babies, gourmet food settings, flowers, forests, advertisements...run-of-the-mill, regular stuff. Then along comes somebody with the dumb/demented idea to create a calendar consisting of - wait for it and gasp - road kill. Seriously!
The calendar in question features the photographic images of squashed squirrels, badgers who have met up with cars and dead ducks - the poultry type. What makes this story even more grotesque is that it has become a best seller! What is wrong with people these days?
The creator is one Kevin Beresford, a courier who travels around the country taking pictures of dead critters. Surely the man can find better subjects than...road kill. Making this even worse is that there is a big demand on line. He admits that some of his "subjects" are so squished they can't be identified. This indicates that the photos most likely have blood and guts spilling out. How absolutely horrible and yucky.
January features four dead mallards and a dead hedgehog ending the year.
"I like the idea as it's different and appeals to my take on life and I think the British love animals - even dead ones," Beresford commented. What type of life does this mean lead, anyway?
So this leads one to ask people reading the story if they would buy a caledar featuring 12 photos of roadkill. Would you? I can say unequivocally that I would not!
Here's a sample of what we're alluding to:
http://web.orange.co.uk/article/quirkies/Roadkill_calendar_a_surprise_hit
Many of us have have calendars with "normal" photos like smiling babies, gourmet food settings, flowers, forests, advertisements...run-of-the-mill, regular stuff. Then along comes somebody with the dumb/demented idea to create a calendar consisting of - wait for it and gasp - road kill. Seriously!
The calendar in question features the photographic images of squashed squirrels, badgers who have met up with cars and dead ducks - the poultry type. What makes this story even more grotesque is that it has become a best seller! What is wrong with people these days?
The creator is one Kevin Beresford, a courier who travels around the country taking pictures of dead critters. Surely the man can find better subjects than...road kill. Making this even worse is that there is a big demand on line. He admits that some of his "subjects" are so squished they can't be identified. This indicates that the photos most likely have blood and guts spilling out. How absolutely horrible and yucky.
January features four dead mallards and a dead hedgehog ending the year.
"I like the idea as it's different and appeals to my take on life and I think the British love animals - even dead ones," Beresford commented. What type of life does this mean lead, anyway?
So this leads one to ask people reading the story if they would buy a caledar featuring 12 photos of roadkill. Would you? I can say unequivocally that I would not!
Here's a sample of what we're alluding to:
http://web.orange.co.uk/article/quirkies/Roadkill_calendar_a_surprise_hit
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Two turkeys are very thankful for Thanksgiving
If I was a turkey - the poultry type - Thanksgiving would be my worst nightmare. Knowing that the axe could fall both literally and figuratively would keep me up the night before the arrival of the very popular holiday. Popular for humans but not for turkeys - the poultry kind.
However, two turkeys are no longer fearful since they have had a stay of execution by the President of the United States, no less. Present Barack Obama has pardoned 45-pound turkey, Apple and her/his pal, Cider -put them together and you'll get apple cider - cute. The saving of two, which are better than none, turkeys is part of an annual ritual it appears. So is the eating of drum sticks and other turkey parts, but I digress. In saving their lives, President Obama said, “today, I have the awesome responsibility of granting a presidential pardon to a pair of turkeys.”
He went on to comment that it was an official duty that he is sworn to uphold as the leader of the most powerful nation on earth.
How were the pair selected you're probably wondering as I was. The poultry two-some won the right to live by strutting (or at least moving) to music before a panel of judges at a California ranch. This leads one to ponder - too much time on my hands - what the criteria was in judging which two were spared. Sense of rhythm...moving to the music...head bobbing...feet scratching... Go know! The pair will now join others living out their lives - that in itself is the best reward - on the grounds of Mount Vernon, the Virginia estate of President George Washington.
However, two turkeys are no longer fearful since they have had a stay of execution by the President of the United States, no less. Present Barack Obama has pardoned 45-pound turkey, Apple and her/his pal, Cider -put them together and you'll get apple cider - cute. The saving of two, which are better than none, turkeys is part of an annual ritual it appears. So is the eating of drum sticks and other turkey parts, but I digress. In saving their lives, President Obama said, “today, I have the awesome responsibility of granting a presidential pardon to a pair of turkeys.”
He went on to comment that it was an official duty that he is sworn to uphold as the leader of the most powerful nation on earth.
How were the pair selected you're probably wondering as I was. The poultry two-some won the right to live by strutting (or at least moving) to music before a panel of judges at a California ranch. This leads one to ponder - too much time on my hands - what the criteria was in judging which two were spared. Sense of rhythm...moving to the music...head bobbing...feet scratching... Go know! The pair will now join others living out their lives - that in itself is the best reward - on the grounds of Mount Vernon, the Virginia estate of President George Washington.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Do not drink the toilet water, okay? And don't juggle hand grenades, either
We human beings can always be counted upon to provide - how shall we say - interesting material that makes us shake our head in wonderment and bewilderment.
So for whatever reason, let's say somebody reading this decides to visit the Phoenix area perhaps for work or pleasure. While checking out the city and Chandler, Arizona in particular following a large consumption of coffee...or tea...whatever, nature calls and a trip to the bathroom is necessary. It appears there are signs posted in restrooms of a new $73 million, five-story building warning people not to drink water out of the urinals and toilets, which happen to use re-cycled water. Unless one gets down on one's hands and knees, this is not a probability, anyway. Mind you, non-human four-legged non-humans like cats or dogs might find this a deterrent. Thinking further, would this law apply to them?
The reason for the posting is that city code regulations located 20 miles southeast of Phoenix to post signs or tint water blue to flag the existence of non-potable "gray water."
*************************************************************************************
Been juggling various life choices? Someone in San Francisco for whatever reason known obviously only to him, decided that it might be fun and definitely an attention-getter, to perform a juggling act at Fisherman's wharf. What makes this news is that his choice of juggling material was a hand grenade. Presumably, this was a one-item juggling act. But I digress. Bomb squad investigators responding to this man's choice of items, closed down the entire block in response. After further investigation, police determined that the grenade was a fake.
The performer, who has not been identified, was arrested and may face charges. I bet.
*************************************************************************************
Last but definitely not least - another study
Love those studies. Some researchers living in Montreal, Canada, obviously and again for whatever reason known only to them, conducted studies that revealed the sight of red meat on a dinner table seems to calm men down and makes them less aggressive.
The research recruited 82 men men who believed they could punish an aide reading a script with various volumes of sound every time he made an error while they sorted photos, some with pictures of meat and others with neutral images. This leads one to wonder what this has to do with meat. But I digress.
The researchers initially believed the men would inflict more discomfort on the script reader while they sorted photos of cooked red meat, but that didn't turn out to be the case.
The researcher says in hindsight, it makes sense that our ancestors would be calm at the sight of meat that is ready to eat as they would be surrounded by their loved ones at meal time. O-kaaaaay....
This leads one to wonder - again - whether the sight of real meat would have the adverse affect, or whether the same would be applicable when seeing photos of raw chicken and other varieties of meat. Also, what about cooked meat? As a person who prepares meals regularly, my feeling is that the sight of a cooked meal when one doesn't have to prepare it is infinitely better. Really.
So for whatever reason, let's say somebody reading this decides to visit the Phoenix area perhaps for work or pleasure. While checking out the city and Chandler, Arizona in particular following a large consumption of coffee...or tea...whatever, nature calls and a trip to the bathroom is necessary. It appears there are signs posted in restrooms of a new $73 million, five-story building warning people not to drink water out of the urinals and toilets, which happen to use re-cycled water. Unless one gets down on one's hands and knees, this is not a probability, anyway. Mind you, non-human four-legged non-humans like cats or dogs might find this a deterrent. Thinking further, would this law apply to them?
The reason for the posting is that city code regulations located 20 miles southeast of Phoenix to post signs or tint water blue to flag the existence of non-potable "gray water."
*************************************************************************************
Been juggling various life choices? Someone in San Francisco for whatever reason known obviously only to him, decided that it might be fun and definitely an attention-getter, to perform a juggling act at Fisherman's wharf. What makes this news is that his choice of juggling material was a hand grenade. Presumably, this was a one-item juggling act. But I digress. Bomb squad investigators responding to this man's choice of items, closed down the entire block in response. After further investigation, police determined that the grenade was a fake.
The performer, who has not been identified, was arrested and may face charges. I bet.
*************************************************************************************
Last but definitely not least - another study
Love those studies. Some researchers living in Montreal, Canada, obviously and again for whatever reason known only to them, conducted studies that revealed the sight of red meat on a dinner table seems to calm men down and makes them less aggressive.
The research recruited 82 men men who believed they could punish an aide reading a script with various volumes of sound every time he made an error while they sorted photos, some with pictures of meat and others with neutral images. This leads one to wonder what this has to do with meat. But I digress.
The researchers initially believed the men would inflict more discomfort on the script reader while they sorted photos of cooked red meat, but that didn't turn out to be the case.
The researcher says in hindsight, it makes sense that our ancestors would be calm at the sight of meat that is ready to eat as they would be surrounded by their loved ones at meal time. O-kaaaaay....
This leads one to wonder - again - whether the sight of real meat would have the adverse affect, or whether the same would be applicable when seeing photos of raw chicken and other varieties of meat. Also, what about cooked meat? As a person who prepares meals regularly, my feeling is that the sight of a cooked meal when one doesn't have to prepare it is infinitely better. Really.
Monday, November 08, 2010
The line up - Brits don't like it
Love those surveys! Yet another one out of Britain, a country that appears to enjoy doing surveys scientific and other-wise, focusing on an act we all do and yet many of us despise doing it. A busy day at the supermarket is a common place where people of all ages gather in large numbers while doing it. The "it" in this case is having to wait in line to pay or do anything, actually.
According to the survey conducted on-line, the average British adult is able to line up for 10 minutes and 42 seconds before expressing their frustration. How, one wonders, did they calculate that 42 seconds but I digress. It's sort-of surprising given the Brits tolerance for things. The most disliked line ups were - surprise - at the supermarkets in addition to the post office and airport check-in and security.
People in the 55 years of age and over category become restless 3 minutes before younger people, however, those 35 years of age and under were more likely to take their frustration out on whoever happens to be handy at that time. This could mean, one presumes, getting verbally nasty. Seems what really aggravates those surveyed is when people dawdle. This is logical if, for example, a cashier and customer discuss and plan social events while the line grows and grows, or when the person in front has a conversation on her/his cell phone and loses track of time, or when people decide to get rid of all that heavy, pesky change... Ask me about it! But again I digress.
To avoid having to wait in line, most Brits prefer to pay their bills on-line, something that is popular with people living in North America and most likely all over the planet.
The on-line poll of 2,006 adults found that one in five people do their shopping at night to avoid the lines. It would be interesting if somebody would conduct a similar poll to see how people living in other countries feel about lining up. Would, for example, culture play a part in how people would react? Weather conditions? So how do people reading this feel about lining up?
According to the survey conducted on-line, the average British adult is able to line up for 10 minutes and 42 seconds before expressing their frustration. How, one wonders, did they calculate that 42 seconds but I digress. It's sort-of surprising given the Brits tolerance for things. The most disliked line ups were - surprise - at the supermarkets in addition to the post office and airport check-in and security.
People in the 55 years of age and over category become restless 3 minutes before younger people, however, those 35 years of age and under were more likely to take their frustration out on whoever happens to be handy at that time. This could mean, one presumes, getting verbally nasty. Seems what really aggravates those surveyed is when people dawdle. This is logical if, for example, a cashier and customer discuss and plan social events while the line grows and grows, or when the person in front has a conversation on her/his cell phone and loses track of time, or when people decide to get rid of all that heavy, pesky change... Ask me about it! But again I digress.
To avoid having to wait in line, most Brits prefer to pay their bills on-line, something that is popular with people living in North America and most likely all over the planet.
The on-line poll of 2,006 adults found that one in five people do their shopping at night to avoid the lines. It would be interesting if somebody would conduct a similar poll to see how people living in other countries feel about lining up. Would, for example, culture play a part in how people would react? Weather conditions? So how do people reading this feel about lining up?
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Wanna be friends with Queen Elizabeth on Facebook?
Being a Queen is a 24 hour job with lots of royal duties to perform and queenly responsibilities. It's not surprising to learn, then, that Queen Elizabeth, she of the British Monarchy, has decided to have a presence on Facebook. Seems that Queen 'E' enjoys surfing the Net and even sends e-mail. Perhaps - pure speculation - she uses e-mail to exchange recipes with other royalists, or send e-card greetings when somebody celebrates a special event. Usual, "normal" stuff like that.
She now has an official Facebook presence but not a personal profile page. Totally understandable. I mean, a Queen does not share personal information like her favorite books or recent book releases worth reading, film recommendations or where to buy a decent hat for special occasions. That would be just too...mundane and un-regal like. Facebook users, though, can 'like' if they so desire plus receive updates on their news feed about queenly happenings.
So let's say...if Queen Liz talks about something cute her corgies have done, or perhaps wants to share a nice photo of them or family members, Facebook-ers can 'like' it if they so desire.
The 'Welcome to the British Monarchy' Facebook page reads: "Welcome to the British Monarchy's Facebook page. To see updates in your news feed, just click on 'Like' Please note that any offensive comments will be deleted."
This leads one to wonder what would be construed as offensive comments...negative fashion statements perhaps. These are things that just can't be said or written or expressed in public!
The page will also feature the Court Circular, recording the previous day's official engagements.
Also featured will be information about royal events and ceremonies, searchable on a UK map.
According to information on the royal Facebook page, Facebook visitors won't be able to add the Queen as a "friend" or attempt to "poke" her as we normal Facebook members tend to do. Think of the social value for people to be able to boast, "I'm friends with Queen Elizabeth on Facebook!" Not.
She now has an official Facebook presence but not a personal profile page. Totally understandable. I mean, a Queen does not share personal information like her favorite books or recent book releases worth reading, film recommendations or where to buy a decent hat for special occasions. That would be just too...mundane and un-regal like. Facebook users, though, can 'like' if they so desire plus receive updates on their news feed about queenly happenings.
So let's say...if Queen Liz talks about something cute her corgies have done, or perhaps wants to share a nice photo of them or family members, Facebook-ers can 'like' it if they so desire.
The 'Welcome to the British Monarchy' Facebook page reads: "Welcome to the British Monarchy's Facebook page. To see updates in your news feed, just click on 'Like' Please note that any offensive comments will be deleted."
This leads one to wonder what would be construed as offensive comments...negative fashion statements perhaps. These are things that just can't be said or written or expressed in public!
The page will also feature the Court Circular, recording the previous day's official engagements.
Also featured will be information about royal events and ceremonies, searchable on a UK map.
According to information on the royal Facebook page, Facebook visitors won't be able to add the Queen as a "friend" or attempt to "poke" her as we normal Facebook members tend to do. Think of the social value for people to be able to boast, "I'm friends with Queen Elizabeth on Facebook!" Not.
Monday, November 01, 2010
Employment opportunity. Wanted mermaid or mer-man
Looking for a job that offers something different in the way of a challenge? Enjoy meeting people? Want to make a big splash in the world? An unusual employment opportunity awaits a female - or male - who knows how to swim well and be willing to do tank cleaning of the fish type.
The Rhyl SeaQuarium located in North Wales is currently seeking out a mermaid - or mer-man.
According to the the "employment opportunity" ad on the aquarium site under the title of "VACANCY – MERMAID/MERMAN":
"A unique and exciting opportunity has arisen (what an appropriate word for this story!) for a Mermaid or Mer-man within the Entertainments Team at the Rhyl SeaQuarium. Duties will include visitor presentations and demonstrations, photo opportunities with our visitors and Dive presentations."
This leads one to wonder how many if any, mermaids or mer-mans exist on this planet but then again, this isn't an issue since the person who gets the job will be wearing a costume, unless of course she or he is the real thing.
So to continue, the person who gets the job will be required to clean exhibits and take care of the animals in a 160,000 litre Ocean Display. Anyone reading this interested in submitting their application should have an outgoing personality, be able to communicate effectively with visitors and perform presentations to a wide range of age groups, both small and large.
This leads one to speculate the type of presentations a mermaid/mer-man would perform. Laze on a rock and sing sea-related ballads perhaps and/or swim around the tank with lots of tail swishing, for sure interacting with the sea creatures. Right now you're probably asking yourself what type of sea creatures are there? According to information on the site, there are more than 30 exhibits with species ranging from sea lions to lionfish, seahorses,sharks and rays. Presumably, the mermaid/mer-man would be required to swim with the fishes in the true sense of the word.
Furthermore, according to the information blurb, "they (whoever is hired) must be able to cope positively with the media interest and be comfortable with public appearance as well as being in front of a camera being photographed for visitor photo opportunities. Due to the public appearances, the successful applicant must be prepared to wear a Mermaid/Merman outfit, which will be specially made for the individual. They should also have a passion for marine life and be comfortable around many forms of marine life – including sharks"
Notice the dash and the two words at the end, "including sharks." Obviously - at least to moi - the seaquarium is aware that many people are hesitant when it comes to interacting with sharks. Fear of death springs to mind.
"Interested applicants should fill out the online application form and send their CV and cover letter to paul.tyson@seaquarium.co.uk expressing the reasons to why this role would suit you."
Closing date for applications is the November 5 and the successful candidate must be able to start on the 16th April 2011. BTW - the post is listed as a "temporary fixed term position initially for one week only with the possibility of an extension to a seasonal position till September 2011." Temporary fixed term position... So if I were to attempt translating this phrase, to moi, it means a post that will exist for a certain time period, in this case one week, but there is a chance that it could be extended. Slo in other words: this is not a career growth opportunity. Then again, perhaps few people would really want to work the rest of their lives dressed in a mermaid or mer-man suit, swimming around a tank doing...whatever a mermaid or mer-man does.
Any takers? What's a few sharks and rays anyway?
The Rhyl SeaQuarium located in North Wales is currently seeking out a mermaid - or mer-man.
According to the the "employment opportunity" ad on the aquarium site under the title of "VACANCY – MERMAID/MERMAN":
"A unique and exciting opportunity has arisen (what an appropriate word for this story!) for a Mermaid or Mer-man within the Entertainments Team at the Rhyl SeaQuarium. Duties will include visitor presentations and demonstrations, photo opportunities with our visitors and Dive presentations."
This leads one to wonder how many if any, mermaids or mer-mans exist on this planet but then again, this isn't an issue since the person who gets the job will be wearing a costume, unless of course she or he is the real thing.
So to continue, the person who gets the job will be required to clean exhibits and take care of the animals in a 160,000 litre Ocean Display. Anyone reading this interested in submitting their application should have an outgoing personality, be able to communicate effectively with visitors and perform presentations to a wide range of age groups, both small and large.
This leads one to speculate the type of presentations a mermaid/mer-man would perform. Laze on a rock and sing sea-related ballads perhaps and/or swim around the tank with lots of tail swishing, for sure interacting with the sea creatures. Right now you're probably asking yourself what type of sea creatures are there? According to information on the site, there are more than 30 exhibits with species ranging from sea lions to lionfish, seahorses,sharks and rays. Presumably, the mermaid/mer-man would be required to swim with the fishes in the true sense of the word.
Furthermore, according to the information blurb, "they (whoever is hired) must be able to cope positively with the media interest and be comfortable with public appearance as well as being in front of a camera being photographed for visitor photo opportunities. Due to the public appearances, the successful applicant must be prepared to wear a Mermaid/Merman outfit, which will be specially made for the individual. They should also have a passion for marine life and be comfortable around many forms of marine life – including sharks"
Notice the dash and the two words at the end, "including sharks." Obviously - at least to moi - the seaquarium is aware that many people are hesitant when it comes to interacting with sharks. Fear of death springs to mind.
"Interested applicants should fill out the online application form and send their CV and cover letter to paul.tyson@seaquarium.co.uk expressing the reasons to why this role would suit you."
Closing date for applications is the November 5 and the successful candidate must be able to start on the 16th April 2011. BTW - the post is listed as a "temporary fixed term position initially for one week only with the possibility of an extension to a seasonal position till September 2011." Temporary fixed term position... So if I were to attempt translating this phrase, to moi, it means a post that will exist for a certain time period, in this case one week, but there is a chance that it could be extended. Slo in other words: this is not a career growth opportunity. Then again, perhaps few people would really want to work the rest of their lives dressed in a mermaid or mer-man suit, swimming around a tank doing...whatever a mermaid or mer-man does.
Any takers? What's a few sharks and rays anyway?
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Two (or more) minutes of silence for Paul the octopus
Some people are suckers when it comes to betting on sports events and then along comes Paul the Octopus who had an uncanny ability to pick winners. Notice the usage of the past tense since Paul has gone on to meet - well - wherever octopuses or the scientifically correct, octopi, go when they pass on.
To many people, he looked like an ordinary octopus but Paul's special ability made him an instant celebrity. Born in January 2008 in Weymouth, England, he received the name, Paul the Psychic Octopus after being able to correctly predict the winners of last summer's World Cup.
According to reports, Paul passed away in his sleep in his tank from natural causes. There are people who aren't convinced he died under normal circumstances, and believe that Paul met with foul play. According to one Jiang Xiao, the director of a forthcoming thriller entitled Who Killed Paul the Octopus, she believes the superstar octopus had really been dead for the last three months. Furthermore, Jiang related to the Guardian Newspaper that she was "60 to 70% sure" Paul had died in July and been secretly replaced by his keepers. When pressed further to explain how the deception could have been perpetrated, Jiang explained that there could have been a switch since all ocotopuses (or octopi) look alike.
True but can all octopuses predict World Cup wins? Doubtful but then again nobody has ever tested the overall ability of octopi to see if they have any psychic abilities.
"We are consoled by the knowledge that he enjoyed a good life here and that the care provided him by our dedicated displays team could not have been bettered, Stefan Porwoll, manager of the Oberhausen Sea Life Center in Germany that housed Paul, commented.
Paul's method of predicting winners was simplicity personified. His caretakers at the Sea Life Centre placed a mussel in each of two clear plastic containers within his tank, and each container was marked with the flag of the competing soccer team. Paul always took his first mussel from the container bearing the flag of the team he "knew" or "sensed" would win.
There is no information regarding funeral arrangements or even if Paul had any siblings or next-of-kin. There is also no information as to whether any attempt to track any down will be made.
"We may decide to give Paul his own small burial plot within our grounds and erect a modest permanent shrine,” said Porwoll.
The aquarium realizing a good thing...that is to say, recognizing that octopuses have as yet undiscovered talent, is already grooming a successor also named Paul. Who knows - if Paul 11 proves to be as psychic as his predecessor, could a salmon or flounder be far behind? I mean, just saying...
To many people, he looked like an ordinary octopus but Paul's special ability made him an instant celebrity. Born in January 2008 in Weymouth, England, he received the name, Paul the Psychic Octopus after being able to correctly predict the winners of last summer's World Cup.
According to reports, Paul passed away in his sleep in his tank from natural causes. There are people who aren't convinced he died under normal circumstances, and believe that Paul met with foul play. According to one Jiang Xiao, the director of a forthcoming thriller entitled Who Killed Paul the Octopus, she believes the superstar octopus had really been dead for the last three months. Furthermore, Jiang related to the Guardian Newspaper that she was "60 to 70% sure" Paul had died in July and been secretly replaced by his keepers. When pressed further to explain how the deception could have been perpetrated, Jiang explained that there could have been a switch since all ocotopuses (or octopi) look alike.
True but can all octopuses predict World Cup wins? Doubtful but then again nobody has ever tested the overall ability of octopi to see if they have any psychic abilities.
"We are consoled by the knowledge that he enjoyed a good life here and that the care provided him by our dedicated displays team could not have been bettered, Stefan Porwoll, manager of the Oberhausen Sea Life Center in Germany that housed Paul, commented.
Paul's method of predicting winners was simplicity personified. His caretakers at the Sea Life Centre placed a mussel in each of two clear plastic containers within his tank, and each container was marked with the flag of the competing soccer team. Paul always took his first mussel from the container bearing the flag of the team he "knew" or "sensed" would win.
There is no information regarding funeral arrangements or even if Paul had any siblings or next-of-kin. There is also no information as to whether any attempt to track any down will be made.
"We may decide to give Paul his own small burial plot within our grounds and erect a modest permanent shrine,” said Porwoll.
The aquarium realizing a good thing...that is to say, recognizing that octopuses have as yet undiscovered talent, is already grooming a successor also named Paul. Who knows - if Paul 11 proves to be as psychic as his predecessor, could a salmon or flounder be far behind? I mean, just saying...
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Woman chooses white to wed herself
Bridal gowns traditionally come in white as a symbol for purity in addition to the couple starting a new life together. Mind you these days wedding dresses also can be found in beige, off-white or even black but that as they say, is another story. So a woman living in Taiwan decided to get married, which in itself is nothing unusual. However what distinguishes her wedding from others is - wait for it - she is marrying herself on November 6.
According to the story, the bride, one Chen Wei-Yih, has gifted herself with a diamond ring (no information if it's an engagement ring since she would be engaged to herself) and booked a photographer to capture the occasion and guests. Furthermore, it wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision and the rationale behind the idea is to show other single females in the 30-year age bracket that they weren't failures. Why stop at 30? Why not 40-year old females and so on, one wonders but I digress.
The almost-wed bride is planning a solo honeymoon to Australia where she plans to pursue a career as a coordinator. No mention what she wants to coordinate but perhaps she's thinking single wedding coordinater. Why not? There are other single females who might want to marry themselves! Who knows - this could become a world-wide trend.
"Do you, blah-blah, take yourself as your lawfully wedded wife to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do you part?"
To get back to the wedding details, there will be bridesmaids and ushers plus 30 invited guests who will celebrate the self-wedding at a banquet hall following the ceremony. What is interesting is that Chen admitted she has had several boyfriends and relationships and was almost married plus she considers her self-wedding non-binding, which means she's free to marry someone other than herself, if the opportunity presents itself.
Here's a photo of the bride, replete in wedding dress: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/10/22/taiwan-bridetobe-plans-we_n_772431.html
Our world gets weirder and weirder...
According to the story, the bride, one Chen Wei-Yih, has gifted herself with a diamond ring (no information if it's an engagement ring since she would be engaged to herself) and booked a photographer to capture the occasion and guests. Furthermore, it wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision and the rationale behind the idea is to show other single females in the 30-year age bracket that they weren't failures. Why stop at 30? Why not 40-year old females and so on, one wonders but I digress.
The almost-wed bride is planning a solo honeymoon to Australia where she plans to pursue a career as a coordinator. No mention what she wants to coordinate but perhaps she's thinking single wedding coordinater. Why not? There are other single females who might want to marry themselves! Who knows - this could become a world-wide trend.
"Do you, blah-blah, take yourself as your lawfully wedded wife to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do you part?"
To get back to the wedding details, there will be bridesmaids and ushers plus 30 invited guests who will celebrate the self-wedding at a banquet hall following the ceremony. What is interesting is that Chen admitted she has had several boyfriends and relationships and was almost married plus she considers her self-wedding non-binding, which means she's free to marry someone other than herself, if the opportunity presents itself.
Here's a photo of the bride, replete in wedding dress: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/10/22/taiwan-bridetobe-plans-we_n_772431.html
Our world gets weirder and weirder...
Monday, October 18, 2010
Ward - I'm worried about the Beaver...
To many of us who grew up with the Cleaver family, June Cleaver epitomized the perfect mom. Always impecably dressed with her ever-present string of pearls, she was the stay-at-home mom who seldom raised her voice and knew the right things to say for the occasion. We all wanted her to come live in our homes and she did, at least via the TV.
Every week many of us of "a certain age" as the French so quaintly put it, tuned in to "Leave It to Beaver" because we wanted to be part of the Cleaver family. The Cleavers and their friends and aquaintances represented "Perfectville" where drugs were something you took when you were sick and divorce was something that was whispered about between adults. During the Cleaver era sitting down for supper at the dining room table as a family unit was the norm with dad Ward, in his business suit replete with tie and mom June in her proper, poofy dress running back and forth serving up the food and dispensing sweetness and home-spun advice. Even when vacuuming, June wore her ever-present string of pearls and a turban to keep her hair clean.
It was quite a departure for her fans when she turned up as a jive-talking passenger on one of the "Airplane!" films. Ever the professional, she handled the role as perfectly as she did playing Mrs. Cleaver.
The Beaver's mom will now be dispensing advice in the "great beyond" through actress, Barbara Billingsley, who played the role of June Cleaver died at the age of 94. She played the role of ideal mother with a calm demeanor that endeared her to viewers. In a TV interview, she said she wanted to "set a good example for what a wife could be." She did that and then some.
Those unfamiliar with June Cleaver can go back in time since YouTube carries many of the original episodes. Chances are you'll smile and say "nice!" The Beaver's mom would be happy.
Every week many of us of "a certain age" as the French so quaintly put it, tuned in to "Leave It to Beaver" because we wanted to be part of the Cleaver family. The Cleavers and their friends and aquaintances represented "Perfectville" where drugs were something you took when you were sick and divorce was something that was whispered about between adults. During the Cleaver era sitting down for supper at the dining room table as a family unit was the norm with dad Ward, in his business suit replete with tie and mom June in her proper, poofy dress running back and forth serving up the food and dispensing sweetness and home-spun advice. Even when vacuuming, June wore her ever-present string of pearls and a turban to keep her hair clean.
It was quite a departure for her fans when she turned up as a jive-talking passenger on one of the "Airplane!" films. Ever the professional, she handled the role as perfectly as she did playing Mrs. Cleaver.
The Beaver's mom will now be dispensing advice in the "great beyond" through actress, Barbara Billingsley, who played the role of June Cleaver died at the age of 94. She played the role of ideal mother with a calm demeanor that endeared her to viewers. In a TV interview, she said she wanted to "set a good example for what a wife could be." She did that and then some.
Those unfamiliar with June Cleaver can go back in time since YouTube carries many of the original episodes. Chances are you'll smile and say "nice!" The Beaver's mom would be happy.
Ward - I'm very worried about the Beaver
To many of us who grew up with the Cleaver family, June Cleaver epitomized the perfect mom. Always impeccably dressed with her ever-present string of pearls, she was the stay-at-home mom who seldom raised her voice and knew the right things to say for the occasion. We all wanted her to come live in our homes and she did, at least via the TV.
Every week many of us of "a certain age" as the French so quaintly put it, tuned in to "Leave It to Beaver" because we wanted to be part of the Cleaver family. The Cleavers and their friends and aquaintances represented "perfectville" where drugs were something you took when you were sick and divorce was something that was whispered about between adults. In the Cleaver household sitting down for supper at the dining room table as a family unit was the norm with dad Ward, in his business suit replete with tie and mom June, in her proper poofy dress running back and forth serving up food, dispensing sweetness and home-spun advice. Even when vacuuming, June wore her string of pearls but wore a turban to keep her hair clean.
It was quite a departure for her fans when she turned up as a jive-talking passenger on one of the "Airplane!" films. Ever the professional, she handled the role as perfectly as she did playing Mrs. Cleaver.
The Beaver's mom will now have to dispense her helpful advice in the "great beyond" through actress, Barbara Billingsley, who played the role of June Cleaver, died at the age of 94. She played the role of ideal mother with a calm demeanor that endeared her to viewers. In a TV interview, she said she wanted to "set a good example for what a wife could be." She did that and then some.
Those unfamiliar with June Cleaver can go back in time since YouTube carries many of the original episodes. Chances are you'll smile and say "nice!" The Beaver's mom would be happy. Meanwhile, for those of us who were fortunate to be part of the Cleaver family, here is a memory jogger that displays a mom's love, tolerance and patience:
Ward Cleaver: I'm going to change my clothes and finish painting those trash cans myself; the boys ran out on the job.
June Cleaver: Well dear you can't blame them too much, they went over to see the big fire at the lumber yard.
Ward Cleaver: Fire?
June Cleaver: Yes, they couldn't resist it, and after all they are just boys.
Ward Cleaver: Tom Corton's lumber yard?
June Cleaver: Yes, it's been on the radio. Why, they've called out fire companies from all over.
Ward Cleaver: Well it must be quite a fire.
June Cleaver: Yes, it must be.
Ward Cleaver: June, I wonder if you'd go out to the garage and put those brushes in some turpentine, I won't be too long. (Rushes out the back door.)
June Cleaver: Once a boy always a boy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdjl3_29DCE
Every week many of us of "a certain age" as the French so quaintly put it, tuned in to "Leave It to Beaver" because we wanted to be part of the Cleaver family. The Cleavers and their friends and aquaintances represented "perfectville" where drugs were something you took when you were sick and divorce was something that was whispered about between adults. In the Cleaver household sitting down for supper at the dining room table as a family unit was the norm with dad Ward, in his business suit replete with tie and mom June, in her proper poofy dress running back and forth serving up food, dispensing sweetness and home-spun advice. Even when vacuuming, June wore her string of pearls but wore a turban to keep her hair clean.
It was quite a departure for her fans when she turned up as a jive-talking passenger on one of the "Airplane!" films. Ever the professional, she handled the role as perfectly as she did playing Mrs. Cleaver.
The Beaver's mom will now have to dispense her helpful advice in the "great beyond" through actress, Barbara Billingsley, who played the role of June Cleaver, died at the age of 94. She played the role of ideal mother with a calm demeanor that endeared her to viewers. In a TV interview, she said she wanted to "set a good example for what a wife could be." She did that and then some.
Those unfamiliar with June Cleaver can go back in time since YouTube carries many of the original episodes. Chances are you'll smile and say "nice!" The Beaver's mom would be happy. Meanwhile, for those of us who were fortunate to be part of the Cleaver family, here is a memory jogger that displays a mom's love, tolerance and patience:
Ward Cleaver: I'm going to change my clothes and finish painting those trash cans myself; the boys ran out on the job.
June Cleaver: Well dear you can't blame them too much, they went over to see the big fire at the lumber yard.
Ward Cleaver: Fire?
June Cleaver: Yes, they couldn't resist it, and after all they are just boys.
Ward Cleaver: Tom Corton's lumber yard?
June Cleaver: Yes, it's been on the radio. Why, they've called out fire companies from all over.
Ward Cleaver: Well it must be quite a fire.
June Cleaver: Yes, it must be.
Ward Cleaver: June, I wonder if you'd go out to the garage and put those brushes in some turpentine, I won't be too long. (Rushes out the back door.)
June Cleaver: Once a boy always a boy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdjl3_29DCE
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Well that explains it! 71% of Tweets ignored
By now people reading this blog are probably bored with my kvetching/complaining about Twitter and my missing tweets. Thing is when you have 170 people (presumably people and not pets, one hopes) following you, every tweet counts.
So today I read this interesting piece about Twitter and people's tweets. Seems that approx. 160 million people located presumably all over the planet and who knows maybe behind, use Twitter. Lot'sa tweets, right? However...according to a Wired piece, a mere - wait for it - 71% of tweets are ignored. In other words, we Tweeters who attempt to make a relatively interesting or at least intelligent statement in the 140 character allotment, are ignored!
Syssomos, a Toronto, Canada, media analytics company, scanned 1.2 billion messages(!) sent in August and September, 2009. Not surprising at least to me, anyway, their findings indicated that 7 in every 10 tweets are ignored, completely. Six percent get re-tweeted and 92% of the re-tweets happen in the first hour. This indicates at least to me that if you're going to get re-tweeted, it will be in the first hour.
So taking this all into consideration, 23% get some type of reply but 85% of those that get a reply, et just one reply. Hey - one reply is better than no reply! Furthermore 10.7% get two replies and 1.53% get three replies.
What does this all mean in the scheme of things? It means, to me that when sending out tweets, they won't necessarily be read and what's more, tweeters won't get replies, either. Makes a person wonder why bother sending them out altogether. As a writer it's a means to draw attention to a blog. Still, it makes you think, especially about those five missing Tweeters, who might have re-tweeted me.
So today I read this interesting piece about Twitter and people's tweets. Seems that approx. 160 million people located presumably all over the planet and who knows maybe behind, use Twitter. Lot'sa tweets, right? However...according to a Wired piece, a mere - wait for it - 71% of tweets are ignored. In other words, we Tweeters who attempt to make a relatively interesting or at least intelligent statement in the 140 character allotment, are ignored!
Syssomos, a Toronto, Canada, media analytics company, scanned 1.2 billion messages(!) sent in August and September, 2009. Not surprising at least to me, anyway, their findings indicated that 7 in every 10 tweets are ignored, completely. Six percent get re-tweeted and 92% of the re-tweets happen in the first hour. This indicates at least to me that if you're going to get re-tweeted, it will be in the first hour.
So taking this all into consideration, 23% get some type of reply but 85% of those that get a reply, et just one reply. Hey - one reply is better than no reply! Furthermore 10.7% get two replies and 1.53% get three replies.
What does this all mean in the scheme of things? It means, to me that when sending out tweets, they won't necessarily be read and what's more, tweeters won't get replies, either. Makes a person wonder why bother sending them out altogether. As a writer it's a means to draw attention to a blog. Still, it makes you think, especially about those five missing Tweeters, who might have re-tweeted me.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
What's wrong with TV these days?
We're barely into the fall TV season and already cancellation fever is in the air. Seems that TV series are already being cancelled, which doesn't bode well for viewers who have formed an early attachment to a favorite program. Alreadyon the chopping block are "Lone Star" (never watched it so don't know what I'm missing, if anything) and "My Generation" (same thing). Even more interesting and telling is that the series were cancelled after only two programs. As is and most likely always will be, ratings is the indicator of a series viability and if the numbers aren't there, bye-bye program!
This season i.e. fall 2010 and for whatever reason, writers and the powers-that-be at TV networks have decided what viewers need - not necessarily want - are more cop programs. While I'm a fan of "Law and Order: SVU", I can't see the need for "Law and Order: LA." Then again, that's just my opinion. I do, however, like "Detroit 1-8-7" because it is a throwback and mix of "Homicide: Life on the Streets" and "NYPD Blue." Although it really doesn't offer anything new in cop dramas, I think there's potential growth for the characters if the networks give it a chance to grow and therein lies the problem. Unfortunately, cancellations come quickly and networks don't give viewers a chance to develop an attachment to the characters and story lines. No sooner are we introduced to a program, than it's cancelled.
Part of the problem - IMHO - is that the writers don't or perhaps can't come up with new ideas. It's variations of old themes, updated. Attention network execs: viewers aren't stupid! We recognize familiar themes! As an early viewer of "Lost" there was an immediate attraction at least for me, because the writers/creators knew how to tell a story. Isn't that what it's about in the end? The story? Can't remember the last time I tuned into a new comedy series. First of all there is nothing worse (for me, anyway) than canned laughter. It interrupts the dialogue and is a constant irritant. It's as if the writers are petrified viewers won't know where the funny parts are and have to tell us! Really - we can discern humor from dumb-ness! Just give us something to laugh at!
And so once again, viewers await the rest of the cancellation list and their replacements. We tune out because in the end, there really isn't any reason to tune in. Give viewers new ideas and solid writing plus plots and we'll be back.
This season i.e. fall 2010 and for whatever reason, writers and the powers-that-be at TV networks have decided what viewers need - not necessarily want - are more cop programs. While I'm a fan of "Law and Order: SVU", I can't see the need for "Law and Order: LA." Then again, that's just my opinion. I do, however, like "Detroit 1-8-7" because it is a throwback and mix of "Homicide: Life on the Streets" and "NYPD Blue." Although it really doesn't offer anything new in cop dramas, I think there's potential growth for the characters if the networks give it a chance to grow and therein lies the problem. Unfortunately, cancellations come quickly and networks don't give viewers a chance to develop an attachment to the characters and story lines. No sooner are we introduced to a program, than it's cancelled.
Part of the problem - IMHO - is that the writers don't or perhaps can't come up with new ideas. It's variations of old themes, updated. Attention network execs: viewers aren't stupid! We recognize familiar themes! As an early viewer of "Lost" there was an immediate attraction at least for me, because the writers/creators knew how to tell a story. Isn't that what it's about in the end? The story? Can't remember the last time I tuned into a new comedy series. First of all there is nothing worse (for me, anyway) than canned laughter. It interrupts the dialogue and is a constant irritant. It's as if the writers are petrified viewers won't know where the funny parts are and have to tell us! Really - we can discern humor from dumb-ness! Just give us something to laugh at!
And so once again, viewers await the rest of the cancellation list and their replacements. We tune out because in the end, there really isn't any reason to tune in. Give viewers new ideas and solid writing plus plots and we'll be back.
Monday, October 11, 2010
In for the count - Twitter still following me (update)
It's been almost a week now and Twitter appears to have solved my follower count. Won't bore everyone with the details regarding how Twitter for whatever reason, presumably technical problems, stopped recognizing new followers, following me.
To date I have two -count 'em - new followers but...Twitter has still not recognized or returned my four or five 'older' followers. I keep wondering (too much time on my hands) if the people who are interested in my updates are wondering why they are not registered in my overall numbers. I mean, should I send them an apology?
"Dear blah-blah,
Thank you for following me on Twitter. Every person counts. In case you were wondering why you have not been included in my 'following' count, blame Twitter. They appeared up until recently not to be able to keep track of new followers for whatever reason. Unfortunately, you were among the batch who were somehow lost in cyberspace, presumably forever. It's not like I didn't make them aware and request for the return of my followers.
Please be assured that you are in my thoughts, if not in my number count."
Eleanor Tylbor
Not too sure if Twitter has the problem completely solved since they alerted me to a new follower, whose name did not show up in my e-mail. However, as I wrote, a follower is a follower and I'll take 'em!
To date I have two -count 'em - new followers but...Twitter has still not recognized or returned my four or five 'older' followers. I keep wondering (too much time on my hands) if the people who are interested in my updates are wondering why they are not registered in my overall numbers. I mean, should I send them an apology?
"Dear blah-blah,
Thank you for following me on Twitter. Every person counts. In case you were wondering why you have not been included in my 'following' count, blame Twitter. They appeared up until recently not to be able to keep track of new followers for whatever reason. Unfortunately, you were among the batch who were somehow lost in cyberspace, presumably forever. It's not like I didn't make them aware and request for the return of my followers.
Please be assured that you are in my thoughts, if not in my number count."
Eleanor Tylbor
Not too sure if Twitter has the problem completely solved since they alerted me to a new follower, whose name did not show up in my e-mail. However, as I wrote, a follower is a follower and I'll take 'em!
Thursday, October 07, 2010
Daily follower update! follower count is operational but...
Seems that Twitter has finally reacted to my never-ending complaints about the follower count. Today a new tweeter is following me and guess what? The follower count is higher by one! However...the five people last week and the week before who were following me are not counted in. Sorry Twitter-5!
A while back during a real communication with a Twitter techie when I had a precious ticket and focusing on this on-going problem, a Twitter techie asked me to prove(!) that the followers I was claiming weren't showing up in the number count, were real. I was asked to prove that they exist. I mean, gimme a break! Now I keep track and don't delete followers. Just can't figure out for the life of me their doubt as to a claim of a few people.
Anyway, things are back to normal - at least for now. We'll see how long this lasts. Meanwhile, my blogger comments are still missing...
A while back during a real communication with a Twitter techie when I had a precious ticket and focusing on this on-going problem, a Twitter techie asked me to prove(!) that the followers I was claiming weren't showing up in the number count, were real. I was asked to prove that they exist. I mean, gimme a break! Now I keep track and don't delete followers. Just can't figure out for the life of me their doubt as to a claim of a few people.
Anyway, things are back to normal - at least for now. We'll see how long this lasts. Meanwhile, my blogger comments are still missing...
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
Daily Twitter Update: forms - they got forms!
Now that Twitter is recognizing my password, the only existing problem is the dubious follower count. Surely but not necessarily, Twitter will at some point give me my five new followers. I mean, is it a lot to ask in the scheme of things? Anywaaaaaay....
Decided to check in Twitter's "Status" to see if there's anything pertaining to my situation:
"Follow, Follower Counts and DMs Intermittently inaccessible 2 days ago
Some features are intermittently not available on Twitter at this time.
- Ability to Follow a user
- Follow counts
- Sending DMs
Twitter is working to resolve this issue in full.
UPDATE Oct 4th, 2010 8:50am: These features have recovered.
Obviously, 'follow counts' is an ongoing problem, however, according to Twitter effect October 4 at 8:50 a.m. the features have been recovered.
Oh really? Then where are my 5 new followers, Twitter? Anywaaaaaay...
Just checked to see if I have a Twitter ticket yet. A ticket means that they're looking into your problem to see if they can remedy it. Unfortunately, mine is blank. It says: "ticket ID - no tickets." Yesterday, I submitted a request in which I explained my situation. 7
Moved along to the Submit a Request on-line form.
'Dear Twitter' is the first heading, along with a drop-down menu. I chose "something is broken or amiss." The next section is 'Regarding' where tweeters are offered a long list of possible breakdowns. I selected, "Tweets and Messages", naturally. In the next blank space, I provided the background information as to my situation. There is the usual user name, e-mail etc. but what really got my attention was that the closing phrase, 'I feel..." This is a space where the tweeter can express her/his opinion regarding the situation at hand. Oh yes, I did express my feeling but it was done with class - for now. We always must remember our on-line manners.
And so, I still wait (im)patiently for my 'Twitter-5' to be returned to me but who knows when that will be - if ever. Makes me wonder if the five people who decided to follow me are wondering what they did not to be included in the count. Don't ask me - ask Twitter!
On another un-related note but just as annoying, it appears that comments left by people reading this blog are not being seen. To this end, I just posted a notification in the discussion forum related to this issue. Does it every end, I ask you?
Decided to check in Twitter's "Status" to see if there's anything pertaining to my situation:
"Follow, Follower Counts and DMs Intermittently inaccessible 2 days ago
Some features are intermittently not available on Twitter at this time.
- Ability to Follow a user
- Follow counts
- Sending DMs
Twitter is working to resolve this issue in full.
UPDATE Oct 4th, 2010 8:50am: These features have recovered.
Obviously, 'follow counts' is an ongoing problem, however, according to Twitter effect October 4 at 8:50 a.m. the features have been recovered.
Oh really? Then where are my 5 new followers, Twitter? Anywaaaaaay...
Just checked to see if I have a Twitter ticket yet. A ticket means that they're looking into your problem to see if they can remedy it. Unfortunately, mine is blank. It says: "ticket ID - no tickets." Yesterday, I submitted a request in which I explained my situation. 7
Moved along to the Submit a Request on-line form.
'Dear Twitter' is the first heading, along with a drop-down menu. I chose "something is broken or amiss." The next section is 'Regarding' where tweeters are offered a long list of possible breakdowns. I selected, "Tweets and Messages", naturally. In the next blank space, I provided the background information as to my situation. There is the usual user name, e-mail etc. but what really got my attention was that the closing phrase, 'I feel..." This is a space where the tweeter can express her/his opinion regarding the situation at hand. Oh yes, I did express my feeling but it was done with class - for now. We always must remember our on-line manners.
And so, I still wait (im)patiently for my 'Twitter-5' to be returned to me but who knows when that will be - if ever. Makes me wonder if the five people who decided to follow me are wondering what they did not to be included in the count. Don't ask me - ask Twitter!
On another un-related note but just as annoying, it appears that comments left by people reading this blog are not being seen. To this end, I just posted a notification in the discussion forum related to this issue. Does it every end, I ask you?
Tuesday, October 05, 2010
Dear Ms. Mr. Anonymous...about followers
Dear Ms. Mr. Anonymous
Thank you for the interesting comment/feedback you made to my complaint/kvetch regarding the Twitter ‘following/count’ situation. While it's true that it’s a free service, one wonders if the service would be better if users had to pay for it. Perhaps yes or perhaps it would be the same. We'll never know unless - heaven forbid - they start charging to tweet.
In your comments to my blog comments, you wrote:
“In the end, does it really matter whether anyone has 150 followers? Or 151? For most people, the follower count naturally fluctuates from one login/visit to another. That's just the way things work. Seriously, who cares?"
Can't speak for other Twitter users but actually, I obviously care as do many others who have added their names to the Twitter complaint lists. The fact that Twitter features the "following" and "follower" ...whatever you call them, means that there are others "out there" in Twitter-land, who feel the same way. As proof of this, singer John Mayer and Ashton Kutcher were determined to have the distinction of acquiring 1 million followers. Why, if this wasn’t important, would they make a point of attempting to get tweeters to follow them? Apparently, having people follow them was an indication of their success. See what I mean? In fact, many celebrities use Twitter to promote their popularity and increase their status.
So y'see, Ms. Mr. Anonymous - followers are important to some of us.
You also commented:
"Twitter is a great way to connect: Use it for its intended purpose and learn to live with the little inconsistencies that crop up along the way."
On that we both agree. It is a great way to connect but it's those littler consistencies along the way that get to you, like incorrect follower count. Ask me about it.
Yours in Tweeting,
Eleanor
Thank you for the interesting comment/feedback you made to my complaint/kvetch regarding the Twitter ‘following/count’ situation. While it's true that it’s a free service, one wonders if the service would be better if users had to pay for it. Perhaps yes or perhaps it would be the same. We'll never know unless - heaven forbid - they start charging to tweet.
In your comments to my blog comments, you wrote:
“In the end, does it really matter whether anyone has 150 followers? Or 151? For most people, the follower count naturally fluctuates from one login/visit to another. That's just the way things work. Seriously, who cares?"
Can't speak for other Twitter users but actually, I obviously care as do many others who have added their names to the Twitter complaint lists. The fact that Twitter features the "following" and "follower" ...whatever you call them, means that there are others "out there" in Twitter-land, who feel the same way. As proof of this, singer John Mayer and Ashton Kutcher were determined to have the distinction of acquiring 1 million followers. Why, if this wasn’t important, would they make a point of attempting to get tweeters to follow them? Apparently, having people follow them was an indication of their success. See what I mean? In fact, many celebrities use Twitter to promote their popularity and increase their status.
So y'see, Ms. Mr. Anonymous - followers are important to some of us.
You also commented:
"Twitter is a great way to connect: Use it for its intended purpose and learn to live with the little inconsistencies that crop up along the way."
On that we both agree. It is a great way to connect but it's those littler consistencies along the way that get to you, like incorrect follower count. Ask me about it.
Yours in Tweeting,
Eleanor
One down, one to go
Hurray!
At least one of the problems appears - notice the word used - to be solved. I actually checked into Twitter just now and it accepted the old/new/old... password.
I came accross the complaint form and informed them of the situation. In the complaint I mentioned both problems and wondering if I should tell them the sign-in is solved. Perhaps not since it could go awry like the follower count at any moment. At least making an official complaint will (one hopes) result in receiving a ticket, which in turn means they'll look into it. Eventually.
So now all that remains is the follower count situation. I follow you...you follow me...we all follow each other. I should only be so lucky!
FOLLOW UP: I tried logging in just now and it worked again! Could fixing the follower count be far behind?
At least one of the problems appears - notice the word used - to be solved. I actually checked into Twitter just now and it accepted the old/new/old... password.
I came accross the complaint form and informed them of the situation. In the complaint I mentioned both problems and wondering if I should tell them the sign-in is solved. Perhaps not since it could go awry like the follower count at any moment. At least making an official complaint will (one hopes) result in receiving a ticket, which in turn means they'll look into it. Eventually.
So now all that remains is the follower count situation. I follow you...you follow me...we all follow each other. I should only be so lucky!
FOLLOW UP: I tried logging in just now and it worked again! Could fixing the follower count be far behind?
Monday, October 04, 2010
*sigh* - Tweeting not made easy
It's rare I write two pieces in this blog in one day but frustration can do that to a person. As mentioned, I'm sharing my frustration at trying to get Twitter to recognize my following count. No matter what I do, it stays at 167 followers. Actually, the real count in spite of Twitter ignoring this reality, is 170.
The latest addition to this on-going problem is that I can't sign in to Twitter. For some bizarre reason, the system is not recognizing me. The only solution now is to relate that I forgot my password and then change it back to the original password. Such a convoluted process.
In the way of a follower update, Twitter posted this message 8 hours ago, Twitter time:
"We have restored Follower/Following counts, and users are able to follow and DM (message) other users again."
Oh really? You could have fooled me! And so it continues... One can only speculate what will happen next.
The latest addition to this on-going problem is that I can't sign in to Twitter. For some bizarre reason, the system is not recognizing me. The only solution now is to relate that I forgot my password and then change it back to the original password. Such a convoluted process.
In the way of a follower update, Twitter posted this message 8 hours ago, Twitter time:
"We have restored Follower/Following counts, and users are able to follow and DM (message) other users again."
Oh really? You could have fooled me! And so it continues... One can only speculate what will happen next.
When is a tweet not a tweet? It's not tweet!
Checked into Twitter as I do every morning as part of my daily regimen of keeping up to date with people's lives and what should I find? Dear Twitter still hasn't updated my followers count.
Quelle surprise!
Checked the "ticket" page to see if my problem had even been among those worked on and was greeted with "no ticket."
Again - quelle surprise.
It is even more annoying since four new followers have found my updates interesting enough to...follow and Twitter doesn't acknowledge their existence. I mean, can you imagine the reaction of the new followers?
"How d'ya like that?" they most likely say to themselves upon realizing that they're not counted in the count. "Now I won't receive updates on those wonderful tweets from Eleanor!"
It's possible somebody might have said or had that thought.
What is most bizarre is that the following thingie works. In other words, when I follow somebody else, it matters but if they follow me back, it doesn't.
On top of which I'm experiencing problems signing in and have to keep changing my user name. Thing is, I keep forgetting the new user name, which means I have to keep changing and changing and... You get the idea.
So I'm going to mark each day that the problem continues here in this blog - with commentary of course. Curious if anyone else reading this has experienced similar problems. You begin to wonder if Twitter really cares about its tweeters.
Saturday, October 02, 2010
New day/week /month - Twitter doesn't tweet
How tweet it is - not!
Seems that Twitter is inviting its users/followers to try out their latest version of Twitter. Thanks for the invitation, Twitter, but perhaps you should attempt to solve some of the existing problems in the old version. On a personal note once again my new followers are not being recognized by Twitter. I mean, what's the use of creating a "followers" category if it doesn't follow?
This time round I decided to go through the "normal" route and attempt to voice my displeasure in their Twitter support centre. The "Missing Tweets from your Account" section advises tweeters:
"Are you missing all your tweets from your Profile page? If so, do not worry, we are aware of the issue and are working with the engineers to resolve this. We apologize for the inconvenience caused."
Somehow this doesn't make me feel better. Don't worry? Really, there are more important things in life but nevertheless, it's aggravating. New Tweeters find our tweets interesting enough to follow and because of technical glitches, Twitter refuses or can't recognize them. Somehow, the "don't worry" advice isn't exactly reassuring given their advanced technological knowledge. In an attempt to fix the problem, just added my frustration to all the other 936 comments in the "missing Tweets" section:
"Yet another attempt at getting Twitter to recognize new followers. Appreciate the update and appologies but the problem is ongoing. Please find solution."
As mentioned in the previous Twitter-related piece in this blog, there are not a lot of "followers" following me so every follower counts. The challenge is how to make Twitter react accordingly. One can only hope - and wait and wait and...
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