Friday 31 August 2018

About time Churchill got rail access. Now for some Ag development with greenhouses.

About time Churchill got rail access. Now for some Ag development with greenhouses.

This lack of access is unforgivable. If US companies can't provide adequate maintenance in alignment with Canadian law, perhaps foreign purchases need better scrutiny.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4807450

We stayed to watch the jousting. It was fun/painful to watch but there were some obnoxious boys in the audience.

We stayed to watch the jousting. It was fun/painful to watch but there were some obnoxious boys in the audience.



Horses. Clydesdales.

Horses. Clydesdales.


Rosie doesn't feel sociable.


Rosie doesn't feel sociable.

Guess where we are


Guess where we are

Under the "fiscally responsible" Progressive Conservative Party, policy reduced the Heritage Fund worth to 17.4 billion compared to Norway's similar fund at nearly $100 billion. Now Cons want to drain public funds to prop up large business and fund religious schools.


Under the "fiscally responsible" Progressive Conservative Party, policy reduced the Heritage Fund worth to 17.4 billion compared to Norway's similar fund at nearly $100 billion. Now Cons want to drain public funds to prop up large business and fund religious schools.

At least the NDP makes sure low income earners get tax breaks to cushion the blow. They've also even working to diversify industry - hard when there's one overwhelmingly industry with minimal education requirements for well paid jobs.

Now that The Canadian Government has bailed out a US Corp could we not do NAFTA and apply the Clean Air guidelines to imported petroleum products? Auto workers aren't voting Lib anyway.

Now that The Canadian Government has bailed out a US Corp could we not do NAFTA and apply the Clean Air guidelines to imported petroleum products? Auto workers aren't voting Lib anyway.

There's way too much we have to give up from intellectual property to privacy due to servers being on US soil.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4804856

Thursday 30 August 2018

Electric heater has run ~10 hours in 2 years. Wow. Makes our efforts seem feeble.

Electric heater has run ~10 hours in 2 years. Wow. Makes our efforts seem feeble.

OTOH we didn't build a super energy efficient home. Hopefully storm doors will help us along with switching away from a gas fireplace in the basement. We're still thinking of solar. A few homes in our neighbourhood have panels and our roof faces the right way.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/calgary-home-certified-as-alberta-s-1st-passive-house-1.4803890

There's a new Lucas!

There's a new Lucas!
https://youtu.be/d-guQ3Pki-0

If tariffs would amount to 1.5% of exports then it's worth it to protect privacy, financial law. There's a reason Canada didn't melt down in 2009

If tariffs would amount to 1.5% of exports then it's worth it to protect privacy, financial law. There's a reason Canada didn't melt down in 2009

It's time to define ourselves in terms of what we think Canada should be. Beholden to economic policies that benefit the rich or distribute costs and benefits amongst all of us. I am not in favour of Canadian information being held on servers in the US - the largest target for identity theft.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/opinion/nafta-negotiations-1.4802486

Of course any changes by this regime will make it more difficult for the targets of unwanted sexual advances to get justice. Don't want to be harassed? Get out of public anything.

Of course any changes by this regime will make it more difficult for the targets of unwanted sexual advances to get justice. Don't want to be harassed? Get out of public anything.

What part of MAGA do you not understand? The beneficiaries (white men and their supporters)?
https://www.refinery29.com/amp/en-us/2018/08/208685/betsy-devos-campus-sexual-assault-title-ix-rules-change

Canadian consumers pay for milk to sustain dairy farmers. USian taxpayers provide 73% of diary farmer income in a quota system that allows 2% imports.

Canadian consumers pay for milk to sustain dairy farmers. USian taxpayers provide 73% of diary farmer income in a quota system that allows 2% imports.

Not to mention no one gets raw milk off a farm in the stores so think about how much the profit motivated middleman I'm creases prices. Saputo, now international, wants US milk in Canada so they can bypass Canadian farmers and maximize profits. I won't buy shares in that company; won't buy their product.
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1034463445037576192.html

Women's experiences help them understand how much more of a target they will be if they don't toe the line.

Women's experiences help them understand how much more of a target they will be if they don't toe the line.

Then we have to decide how strong we are, especially if we try to be fair.




https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1035054249602899970.html

I've never understood the hatred for Wil Wheaton (and I don't need them explained) but I'm glad he's got support systems IRL.

I've never understood the hatred for Wil Wheaton (and I don't need them explained) but I'm glad he's got support systems IRL.

Perhaps it's the halo from being on ST:NG or a bud of Scalzi but he's always seemed like a person doing his best to promote kindness in an unkind world. Like any human he makes missteps that can be exploited and because he's not an asshole, they do get exploited.
http://wilwheaton.net/2018/08/the-world-is-a-terrible-place-right-now-and-thats-largely-because-it-is-what-we-make-it/#more-7515

Tuesday 28 August 2018

Bennie loves this bag so much.


Bennie loves this bag so much.

Do not mess with an economic prof specializing in game theory. And my eye leaked at the end.

Do not mess with an economic prof specializing in game theory. And my eye leaked at the end.

A fun movie and very busy for a Tuesday afternoon. The opulence was amazing and I would_really_ like to visit. The architecture looks amazing. I'm sure there was meaning to the wedding that we didn't get although we did understand the Mahjong scene. According to the movie, guys from Singapore are either cut or kind of pudgy looking but all the women are skinny. Highly unlikely. And Nick was kind of a jerk for not being as perceptive as his friend.

If it were not for an American audience, the ending would have been a double tragedy.
https://youtu.be/pa1lxyUmG8Q

Peace.


Peace.

At the professional level, one should be able to wear anything that doesn't prohibit ability to compete rules (not dress code) of the sport.

At the professional level, one should be able to wear anything that doesn't prohibit ability to compete rules (not dress code) of the sport.

Competitors get your mental game together. You too spectators.
https://www.thecut.com/2018/08/womens-tennis-outfits-convtroversy-history.html?utm_source=nym&utm_medium=f1&utm_campaign=feed-part

Canada has dairy tariffs, US quotas allow 2% of dairy products to be imported and there are direct subsidies to dairy producers. Different mechanism for same protection.

Canada has dairy tariffs, US quotas allow 2% of dairy products to be imported and there are direct subsidies to dairy producers. Different mechanism for same protection.

I guess it feels better to give producers money from the tax pool than charging the consumer more for the product as is the case in Canada?


https://www.realagriculture.com/2018/02/u-s-dairy-subsidies-equal-73-percent-of-producer-returns-says-new-report/

Monday 27 August 2018

Pre-ordered the Galaxy Watch; it's what I've been waiting for. Speaker, smaller form factor and lighter colour.


Pre-ordered the Galaxy Watch; it's what I've been waiting for. Speaker, smaller form factor and lighter colour.

I do have the Galaxy Sport that I'll be selling. I've have the Gear S2 Classic. Love the form factor but was disappointed that it didn't have a speaker like the Gear S. Passed on the S3 because it was clearly pandering to people with way bigger body structure than me. Since I wanted something with GPS I did get the Gear Sport. I've liked it ok but not a big fan of the squirkle shape or the colour. Finally the device I'm looking for on first release! And I was eying the dual charger so I'm pretty pumped about getting that. I'll probably even keep the silicone band and many order the browner one from Samsung if it gets worn.

Can't wait!
Title

If it takes one:one with Mexico to get a deal on track then so be it. Nothing in the deal indicates Canada was thrown under the bus by Mexico.

If it takes one:one with Mexico to get a deal on track then so be it. Nothing in the deal indicates Canada was thrown under the bus by Mexico.

I was under the impression the sunset clause was the deal breaker and since that's gone things can quickly proceed. Canada has a robust generic drug business that could be affected by patent protection, we'll see. Cracking down on piracy isn't a big deal and increased limits on duty free would be great! I don't see anything in there about dairy but it seems the TTP had some space for change to dairy that would benefit the US so that will likely be offered up to let the US feel like they got a special win.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4800716

Hey guys, is this OK? “Guys” may be widely regarded as a gender-neutral way to address people, but many are looking to replace the word with a more inclusive one. https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2018/08/guys-gender-neutral/568231/

Hey guys, is this OK? “Guys” may be widely regarded as a gender-neutral way to address people, but many are looking to replace the word with a more inclusive one. https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2018/08/guys-gender-neutral/568231/
https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2018/08/guys-gender-neutral/568231/

Today Bennie met the power washer. Obviously the best thing ever atm. In human failures there were missed house training opportunities galore.

Today Bennie met the power washer. Obviously the best thing ever atm. In human failures there were missed house training opportunities galore.

It's really hard to house train a pup that can't go down the stairs - well unless you want them to go on the deck. Today in missed opportunites, Bennie actually whined at the top of the step. I was busy blowing my nose on the other side of the barrier so...he came in and peed on the floor. Rats! And I left him with Fred before he pooped so no cheering for that one. Cheering is super important when the behaviour is self rewarding and the negative is silence.

On the up side - watch me is going well as is sitting, staying, lying down and watch. I've started doing some stuff in the front yard and down the block. Next week it will start over at home.

I expect this is the story of every refugee and many immigrants. Thought fighting would pass. But it didn't and they had the resources to leave. Canada should not create stateless people by changing immigration policy.

I expect this is the story of every refugee and many immigrants. Thought fighting would pass. But it didn't and they had the resources to leave. Canada should not create stateless people by changing immigration policy.

https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1033585831544410112.html
https://twitter.com/BashirMohamed/status/1033587616153661440?s=09

Many of us believe our ancestors lived much shorter lives than we do. Cutting-edge archaeology shows otherwise. https://www.sapiens.org/body/human-lifespan-history/

Many of us believe our ancestors lived much shorter lives than we do. Cutting-edge archaeology shows otherwise. https://www.sapiens.org/body/human-lifespan-history/
https://www.sapiens.org/body/human-lifespan-history/

#Humanrightsabuser #SaudiArabia

#Humanrightsabuser #SaudiArabia
https://www.hrw.org/news/2018/08/21/saudi-prosecution-seeks-death-penalty-female-activist

I thought it would non-controversial to expect professors not to pursue relationships with students in your faculty so formalizing that in a policy would be fairly easy. Ah ha ha ha ha. Naive is my middle name.

I thought it would non-controversial to expect professors not to pursue relationships with students in your faculty so formalizing that in a policy would be fairly easy. Ah ha ha ha ha. Naive is my middle name.

I worked at a university as a researcher when I was grad student aged. There were whispers about profs but they weren't about sexual encounters with students. I would like to think that's because there wasn't any rather than because I would so clearly be disgusted/disappointed to find out. Not that there weren't romances and drama, there were. Perhaps it was going on in other faculties.
https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2018/08/27/appropriate-academic-relationships-are-possible-ignore-the-lech-in-the-corner/

Mentioning "identity politics" gets the surveyed group to want more conservative policies. Understanding why is integral.

Mentioning "identity politics" gets the surveyed group to want more conservative policies. Understanding why is integral.

As "not a Social Scientist" I can only think people understand identity politics recognizes a "default identity" which is exclusive of others whether it personally benefits them or not. This will be a key component in both legitimate and "troll" election talking points.

You see some of it being uncovered in Canada. Sheer talks about Trudeau "virtue signalling". That seems to mean openly stating support for human rights rather than being a silent partner in turning a blind eye with excuses about sovereignty. Creating a diverse cabinet rather than default boys club with a token woman seems to have lead to just as effective (and you can take that anyway you want) policy and implementation. Even looking for consensus has not lead to much more agonizing change than slapping an authoritative skin on policies that encourages people to look for loopholes so they don't have to comply.

Canada's immigration system is failing - not because of entry requirements but the long wait times making it difficult to remove people are not assessed in a timely manner. Same with refugees. The solution isn't to close borders but increase support staff so everyone can be better assessed not just go on personal bias and stereotypes.

It's up to more progressive parties to emphasis how "identity politics" makes life better for everyone in a diverse society without penalizing the default identity. It's up to us to ensure politicians know our values by communicating them. Most will be responsive.
https://psmag.com/.amp/news/how-the-identity-politics-argument-affects-a-partys-choices

Sunday 26 August 2018

Plays and movies of my youth. Timeless themes

Plays and movies of my youth. Timeless themes
https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/neil-simon-dead-91-1.4799534

There is no abortion law in Canada, it's a medicial decision. Also we have very good prenatal and premie care. Someone who doesn't want a child is unlikely to be a good parent.

There is no abortion law in Canada, it's a medicial decision. Also we have very good prenatal and premie care. Someone who doesn't want a child is unlikely to be a good parent.

Sex education and contraception are the most effective tools for reducing abortion. A living wage and social support systems are the best way to increase child birth rates. Neither holds a segment of the population hostage to bodily functions.
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1033420453602242560.html

Saturday 25 August 2018

This is how we victim-blame men: not for drinking too much or wearing the wrong clothes or seeking salacious fame, but for not playing along when another guy crosses a line

This is how we victim-blame men: not for drinking too much or wearing the wrong clothes or seeking salacious fame, but for not playing along when another guy crosses a line

When feminism says sex abuse is about power it isn't just between men and women. It really is about the powerful person - male or female getting away with victimizing others them blaming their target for not taking the role of the less powerful.
https://melmagazine.com/brendan-frasers-metoo-story-is-why-more-male-victims-don-t-speak-out-26ddbe49de70

Friday 24 August 2018

Spigen Style Ring Pop - like the classic but flatter. It's a buy.

Spigen Style Ring Pop - like the classic but flatter. It's a buy.

I have the older version of the ring but got the new one because it's supposed to be magnetic and my wallet came with a magnetic case which is horrible. The magnet isn't good enough to hold it in the case but I am enjoying how flat the new ring is. One concern I had was whether the ring can swivel as it wasn't shown in pictures. Mine can. Yay.

I would definitely get this over a knock off. I do feel the holder is secure onto my Samsung case and I can enjoy the minimal look.

I used to run in my neighbourhood with my dog in the morning when I lived in Calgary. Also ran on Nose Hill in the evening on occasion. I never encountered a reason not to. Not so for Mollie:(

I used to run in my neighbourhood with my dog in the morning when I lived in Calgary. Also ran on Nose Hill in the evening on occasion. I never encountered a reason not to. Not so for Mollie:(

This feels like men attacking women for disagreeing with them has gotten worse. Or maybe women are just tired of turning an blind eye to this kind of behaviour while adjusting their lives. There's a lot of things we do just to avoid "issues" while men just carry on carrying on.
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1032999452716490754.html

Thursday 23 August 2018

Either a doctor is competent or not - it should not be dependant on province. Do we need "Red Seal" doctors similar to Journeyman certification?

Either a doctor is competent or not - it should not be dependant on province. Do we need "Red Seal" doctors similar to Journeyman certification?

I live in Lloydminster and doctors pay Colleges in Alberta and Saskatchewan so they can have offices in Alberta and admitting privileges at the hospital which is part of the Saskatchewan health system. I understand having the provinces administer health care but Doctors and other medical professionals should be registered country wide.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4795274

Bennie likes Milo and wants Milo to like him back. If only he didn't have those sharp puppy teeth.


Bennie likes Milo and wants Milo to like him back. If only he didn't have those sharp puppy teeth.

Wednesday 22 August 2018

Very informative.... 😆


Very informative.... 😆

Puppy activity that doesn't include my hair getting combed by puppy teeth.

Puppy activity that doesn't include my hair getting combed by puppy teeth.
https://youtu.be/jRMqUIFcMmY

Nativism is always with us. Just conditions let it surface. Before it was Quebec separatism, now it's this.

Nativism is always with us. Just conditions let it surface. Before it was Quebec separatism, now it's this.

Immigrants help pay for Canadian programs like CPP which has been paid to a lot of people who collect but didn't contribute for their entire work life. Also asylum seeking is always legal but not all seekers are accepted.
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1031926194797666304.html#

But Canada should just shut up about human rights in other countries and take their money?

But Canada should just shut up about human rights in other countries and take their money?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/saudi-arabia-death-penalty-women-activists-1.4794300

Short answer no. GOP is getting to stack all the courts who will roll back as many civil rights advances as possible. Why would they impeach?

Short answer no. GOP is getting to stack all the courts who will roll back as many civil rights advances as possible. Why would they impeach?

Also, his followers are cult members. You know the ones, they predict the end of the world, followers give money because they believe then when the world doesn't end, they just accept excuses and keep supporting.
https://psmag.com/.amp/news/is-this-the-endgame-for-trump

The case for services to have a group monitor social media and ensure timely accurate responses. Most people are forgiving.

The case for services to have a group monitor social media and ensure timely accurate responses. Most people are forgiving.

There's a panel suggested for the Bordering on Disaster conference that deals with social media response for emergencies. There's a flood of information with little context. Any explanations must not seem to be excuses.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/faster-better-corporate-apologies-needed-1.4791765

Some interesting work related questions that made me realize how much I took fitting in to culture for granted. Bring cupcakes for group ok? How about your own go cup to a meeting? What about arriving late?

Some interesting work related questions that made me realize how much I took fitting in to culture for granted. Bring cupcakes for group ok? How about your own go cup to a meeting? What about arriving late?

Interesting questions. I only get annoyed with baked goods only coming from women. I have never attended an external meeting where someone didn't bring their own cup. And tardiness? If weather is that bad? I live very close to work but, as a supervisor, I've told people not to come in if driving would be dangerous.
https://www.askamanager.org/2018/08/should-people-with-bad-commutes-get-more-leeway-for-lateness-bringing-in-snacks-for-coworkers-and-more.html

Tuesday 21 August 2018

Fell from #1 to #7 - greed and selfishness is getting the better of us

Fell from #1 to #7 - greed and selfishness is getting the better of us

And many like it that way. Look at the Ontario election results.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/vickyvalet/2018/06/21/the-worlds-most-reputable-countries-2018/#2abc660d3ea0

I have never wondered about this. Could the man be trolling the mother?

I have never wondered about this. Could the man be trolling the mother?
https://www.thecut.com/2018/08/are-baths-too-hot-for-testicles.html

The value of small groups is they can focus on achievable goals then bring to the public eye for integration (or not) into the bigger picture of national culture.

The value of small groups is they can focus on achievable goals then bring to the public eye for integration (or not) into the bigger picture of national culture.

Canada was built as a Christian nation (C of E) but has transitioned to secular law. That is what allows us to be diverse. And yes Bernier being from (language law) Quebec is ironic to me. I think of the uselessness of the traditional meeting where everyone just promotes their and no decisions get made because of poor information. But when small groups with specific interests form, they can agree on a focus and present information. Sometimes smaller groups split off but, over time, I do think there is a gradual coming together of ideas. It just takes a lot longer than "laying down the law" and is a better way of ensuring people buy in.

The more I find out about US voting, the more I understand why people don't vote. It would be exhausting to make an informed vote on every single position up for election. From federal representatives to state to local and even sheriffs and judges? I guess that's why parties affiliation is so important and shortcut.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/opinion/maxime-bernier-tweets-1.4792134

$900K/year is way too much to pay a public service employee especially when taken from coffers for workplace injury compensation. But, the system didn't seem to work at all like the description in the article (I'd been dealing with it for a few years) but it mostly likely depends on the employer.

$900K/year is way too much to pay a public service employee especially when taken from coffers for workplace injury compensation. But, the system didn't seem to work at all like the description in the article (I'd been dealing with it for a few years) but it mostly likely depends on the employer.

We could reduce our premium by offering modified work that gets the worker back on site AND having our safety program assessed by an external auditor every 3 years. Modified work has to be in the purview of the job description and this was usually our opportunity to get worker input in to job hazard assessments and safety labeling and painting and other tasks that people like to put on the back burner. Also, regardless of reporting timing if the injury could have happened at work, the worker was covered. Pre-existing conditions lessened the impact of the injury on premiums and we did have meetings about getting workers back.

Maybe easier since I worked on a manufacturing site not in oil and gas or construction.
https://albertapolitics.ca/2018/08/guy-kerr-cant-be-blamed-for-the-alberta-wcbs-troubles-but-his-resignation-is-an-opportunity-to-get-it-back-on-track/

Since retiring in sleeping way more. Reading novels if i wake up in the night instead of angst over work.


Since retiring in sleeping way more. Reading novels if i wake up in the night instead of angst over work.

Monday 20 August 2018

Do you think drinking water is integral to weight loss? Studies show it has no effect on calories consumed.

Do you think drinking water is integral to weight loss? Studies show it has no effect on calories consumed.

Drinking water before going to an all you can eat buffet didn't significantly reduce the how many calories were consumed at the buffet - although perhaps more calories were burned running to the bathroom:) I've switched to drinking Bengal Spice tea instead of pop just because I like the flavour and it satisfies my thirst when water doesn't. I'm definitely a drink when thirsty type, including sips during exercise class.
http://www.weightymatters.ca/2018/08/two-new-studies-pour-cold-water-on.html

As a feminist and a humanist I can only say sexual harassment is not confined to a gender. All reports require a thorough investigation by an independent group.

As a feminist and a humanist I can only say sexual harassment is not confined to a gender. All reports require a thorough investigation by an independent group.

Some interesting statistics on violence from the CDC NISVS Summary Report I doubt the US is exceptional in this respect.

About 1 in 3 victims of contact sexual violence are men.  About 1 in 4 victims of non-contact sexual violence are men. and For male victims of unwanted sexual contact, or unwanted non-contact experiences, it’s roughly split between male and female perpetrators.  For male victims of sexual coercion, 4 out of 5 perpetrators are women.

Once again, we need to identify these perpetrators and remove their ability to create victims.
https://freethoughtblogs.com/atrivialknot/2018/08/19/updates-and-commentary-on-ronnel-case/

Sunday 19 August 2018

Companies have figured out how to manipulate our sense of smell to keep us buying. https://qz.com/1349712/companies-like-starbucks-use-smells-to-keep-us-buying-heres-why-it-works/

Companies have figured out how to manipulate our sense of smell to keep us buying. https://qz.com/1349712/companies-like-starbucks-use-smells-to-keep-us-buying-heres-why-it-works/
https://qz.com/1349712/companies-like-starbucks-use-smells-to-keep-us-buying-heres-why-it-works/

Right on schedule (12 weeks) one ear is up!


Right on schedule (12 weeks) one ear is up!

Every morning while Bennie eats breakfast I do pack for 2 minutes. Then it's teeth and coat brushing and getting toe handling. Almost a habit.

He's had his 12 week shots. When we get home it will be rabies and microchip. I'm really looking forward to getting home. Much bigger and dog safe back yard.

Entire trilogy available now for $2.99. Smoking deal, and highly recommended.

Entire trilogy available now for $2.99. Smoking deal, and highly recommended.


https://www.amazon.com/Divine-Cities-Trilogy-Miracles-Foundryside-ebook/dp/B07BD2B1CT/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1534272875&sr=8-4&keywords=divine+cities

Smokey but we're going for a walk anyway.


Smokey but we're going for a walk anyway.

Air quality is a lot better in Pitt Meadows even though there is less air movement.

Word matter because they help us recognize a common reality. First identify then create a universal term. I think I read this happened with the colour blue.

Word matter because they help us recognize a common reality. First identify then create a universal term. I think I read this happened with the colour blue.

Actually for me, emotional things become embedded once I verbalize them (or write them down but verbal is quicker). That's why I rarely express how and why I dislike someone/something because, to me, until I do it's still flux. I am usually able to give an explanation/argument for my statements although I don't expect everyone to agree with them.

Am I alone in that?
https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/unknown-unknowns-the-problem-of-hypocognition/

Dickey Chapelle had a truly amazing life. Sad we've progressed so little. Still wars, still restricting women's roles.

Dickey Chapelle had a truly amazing life. Sad we've progressed so little. Still wars, still restricting women's roles.

But world wars have been mitigated through free trade and treaties and women ... well, three steps forward, two steps back.

h/t mary Zeman

Saturday 18 August 2018

The transgressions for these 2 are appalling. Good for the Association for removing these unprofessional men.

The transgressions for these 2 are appalling. Good for the Association for removing these unprofessional men.

They'll fit in well with the religious schools they're eligible to work at without certification. Hopefully First Nations schools won't hire them.

https://edmontonjournal.com/news/local-news/two-alberta-teachers-certification-at-risk-for-humiliating-students

Friday 17 August 2018

Really well done parody. Boy are J2 tall!

Really well done parody. Boy are J2 tall!

Also watch the "Making of" video. Wow.
https://youtu.be/Nsy06n-omrg

I don't want to renounce my US citizenship, but the tax situation... It was always punitively complicated and it's gotten worse than I imagined. I literally don't know what to do. I've always paid taxes in the country I lived and worked in, but according to draconian US law, that's not enough.

I don't want to renounce my US citizenship, but the tax situation... It was always punitively complicated and it's gotten worse than I imagined. I literally don't know what to do. I've always paid taxes in the country I lived and worked in, but according to draconian US law, that's not enough.

“Renouncing U.S. Citizenship Is Extremely Tricky Business” @thecurioushuman https://medium.com/s/greatescape/renouncing-u-s-citizenship-is-extremely-tricky-business-4dbe16cbf20a
https://medium.com/s/greatescape/renouncing-u-s-citizenship-is-extremely-tricky-business-4dbe16cbf20a

Title


Milo moments after being a barky jerk to another old dog walked by another old person.


Milo moments after being a barky jerk to another old dog walked by another old person.

I'm on Twitter and pretty low key. If "opposing opinions" are going to be inserted into my timeline the amount of marketing information available as payment for free service will be minimized.

I'm on Twitter and pretty low key. If "opposing opinions" are going to be inserted into my timeline the amount of marketing information available as payment for free service will be minimized.

I thought, originally, it was supposed to be a stream where you could create eddys of conversations but most stuff your flow by into the past. Of course, I didn't think about people weaponizing comments. I'm pretty careful with what I say but everyone exposes unpopular opinions. Guess it's time to curate/scrape.
https://anotherangrywoman.com/2018/08/17/top-tips-for-staying-on-twitter-as-jack-fucks-it-up/amp/

Tuesday 14 August 2018

This was a lot of fun. Car chase, TRAPEZE fight scene and tight editing.

This was a lot of fun. Car chase, TRAPEZE fight scene and tight editing.

I often find McKinnon over the top but Kunis was the perfect foil. Best scenes not in the trailer even better.
https://youtu.be/CXkUaaVrB_s

Nearly 50k people have blocked Twitter’s biggest advertisers over the Alex Jones debacle (and you can too) http://tnw.me/cPXzLCA

Nearly 50k people have blocked Twitter’s biggest advertisers over the Alex Jones debacle (and you can too) http://tnw.me/cPXzLCA
http://tnw.me/cPXzLCA

More illustration of Canada's "not niceness". Elect authoritarian leader; feelings of powerlessness ensues. Violence is never acceptable - even toward media (Toronto Sun) from the "other" side.

More illustration of Canada's "not niceness". Elect authoritarian leader; feelings of powerlessness ensues. Violence is never acceptable - even toward media (Toronto Sun) from the "other" side.

I don't read the Toronto Sun because a) not in Toronto and b) ridiculously biased. But I would not assault someone who works there. Were it an accidental contact in the heat of the moment I would definitely apologize and withdraw from the activity. I know I get swept up in mob activities (part of being a passionate person) so I just avoid them unless they are inclusive (fireworks displays etc.)
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4783933

Interesting use of Carbon Tax monies. Alberta is using to majority to diversify energy sources away from coal and natural gas, BC into refunding business and Norway puts into general funds.

Interesting use of Carbon Tax monies. Alberta is using to majority to diversify energy sources away from coal and natural gas, BC into refunding business and Norway puts into general funds.

I'm a fan of the Alberta model (not unexpectedly) which transfers funds to especially affected households. I feel those with low income get so few breaks. As someone who can carry a balance I get bank fees refunded and credit card fees waived. Since our household is solvent (aka pay off credit cards in full every month), using cash back credit cards are a tax exempt way to bump up available funds. Low income earners have none of those options because so much goes towards day to day living. And yeah that includes entertainment.
https://ourworldindata.org/carbon-pricing-popular

#Joinindaily with +Johnny Wills


#Joinindaily with +Johnny Wills

Today's theme is CLOUDS.

Clouds on the Prairies seem so low.

Monday 13 August 2018

Elon Musk’s mystery Tesla buyout funder is Saudi Arabia - "because of the important need to diversify away from oil"

Elon Musk’s mystery Tesla buyout funder is Saudi Arabia - "because of the important need to diversify away from oil"

Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund is the mystery funder that has offered to finance a deal to take Tesla private, Elon Musk wrote in a Monday morning blog post. The post lays to rest a mystery that has bedeviled Wall Street and the news media since Musk tweeted last Tuesday that he had "funding secured" for a buyout.

"Going back almost two years, the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund has approached me multiple times about taking Tesla private," Musk wrote in his Monday post. "They first met with me at the beginning of 2017 to express this interest because of the important need to diversify away from oil."

Musk isn't ready to sign on the dotted line with the Saudis yet. "I am having discussions with a number of other investors, which is something that I always planned to do since I would like for Tesla to continue to have a broad investor base," Musk wrote.

Musk also noted that this will not be a leveraged buyout, where the acquisition is largely funded by borrowing money that would have to be paid off by Tesla later. Instead, the Saudis (or whoever ultimately funds the deal) will buy shares from existing shareholders who want to cash out—these funders would then become some of Tesla's biggest shareholders.

A total buyout of Tesla would cost more than $70 billion. But Musk says he's hoping that many of Tesla's major shareholders will choose to remain as shareholders in the new, private company.

My comment though is that it is a sign that more and more fossil fuel-based investors and companies are investing more heavily in renewable energy technology. In many cases startups in renewable energy were not traditional energy companies nor even car companies, but the mainstream players are now moving in. There is still pioneering ground to cover though as all renewable energy technologies are still innovating and evolving (meaning it gets replaced / outperformed by newer technology within 5 years).

See https://arstechnica.com/cars/2018/08/elon-musk-considering-using-saudi-oil-money-to-buy-out-tesla/

#tesla
https://arstechnica.com/cars/2018/08/elon-musk-considering-using-saudi-oil-money-to-buy-out-tesla/

How old am I? I'm enjoying elevator music.


How old am I? I'm enjoying elevator music.

It reminds me of driving the Mediterranean coast in a sports car on the 60s...something I've never done.

While I admire this couple, this is exactly why we have a trusted financial advisor. While we have different styles, we both worry about running of of money in our retirement.

While I admire this couple, this is exactly why we have a trusted financial advisor. While we have different styles, we both worry about running of of money in our retirement.

We do have enough put away that we can live off the income generated but I do think "the market" is due to a greed crash. The US hasn't had one in almost 10 years. I don't count the dip a couple years ago and consumer financial protections have been loosened. Having someone else scrutinize and rebalance is key for my peace of mind.
https://www.moneysense.ca/save/investing/allocate-cash-retirement-portfolio/

Yikes! Again the difference between large and small business. Should the Canadian Government reach out to assist impacted small business?

Yikes! Again the difference between large and small business. Should the Canadian Government reach out to assist impacted small business?

New US tax laws make it ...impossible to renounce U.S. citizenship, turning U.S. citizenship into a sort of debtors prison... opines a tax lawyer. I know forming a business was being used as a tax shelter. I am all for people (and companies) paying all taxes owed and adjusting tax rates upwards as expenses increase NOT for changing tax laws and back taxing. Small business drives the economy.

I really think a tax overhaul should increase personal exemptions and align capital gains tax rates with earned income tax rates to make up shortfalls. And yes, this would really affect me as someone now living off capital gains.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4779747

Sunday 12 August 2018

See the UN skipping rope? They just stepped in to prevent a deportation from Canada to KSA. Which Canada complied with.

See the UN skipping rope? They just stepped in to prevent a deportation from Canada to KSA. Which Canada complied with.
https://www.thespec.com/opinion-story/8810697-editorial-cartoon-aug-10/

I'm just going to leave this here. What drives this desire for transparency? The knowledge there are people who withhold crucial information required for ethical decision making. The entire thing with ethical decision making is evaluating information and extenuating circumstances.

I'm just going to leave this here. What drives this desire for transparency? The knowledge there are people who withhold crucial information required for ethical decision making. The entire thing with ethical decision making is evaluating information and extenuating circumstances.
https://freethoughtblogs.com/stderr/2018/08/12/sunday-sermon-the-truth-leaks-out/

A&W franchise fees must be reasonable because they're everywhere. I didn't know a restaurant could stop you from sharing food you bought.

A&W franchise fees must be reasonable because they're everywhere. I didn't know a restaurant could stop you from sharing food you bought.

It was interesting reading on Twitter (the full story was on Facebook but I'm not on that.) It was pretty clear it was a long standing management rule that was well known through the local whispernet. It was thought to be just a rumour. The woman may well have been aggressive at some point but perhaps it was triggered by a refusal to serve? Who knows. RCMP most likely did cruise the parking lot to see if there were any disruptions. Glad this guy stepped up and shone a light on this practice.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/a-w-alberta-cardston-racism-1.4782352

There was only ever "free speech" for well off white men and their supporters. Social media allows to everyone see the faces behind the target...at least until they get punted for expecting equity."

There was only ever "free speech" for well off white men and their supporters. Social media allows to everyone see the faces behind the target...at least until they get punted for expecting equity."

Hopefully there is a social revolution where people see "others" are like them in aspirations and working within the rules (everyone wanders outside the line but only some get punished). Nothing to fear here.


https://boingboing.net/2018/08/10/inequality-and-speech.html

QFT A farm is either a business, or it is a hobby. that's why they are called producers in the grain world I was in.

QFT A farm is either a business, or it is a hobby. that's why they are called producers in the grain world I was in.

I don't really understand the factory farms spoken about but I'm mostly familiar with cattle ranchers and have read about pork producers. I'm not that familiar with poultry production. The worse part of the animal process seems to be transporting.

h/t Cindy Brown
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1026198501129179137.html

Milo can't figure out why this bag is Bennie's fav toy


Milo can't figure out why this bag is Bennie's fav toy

Glad Alberta has gotten rid of staggered minimum wage. It's discriminatory against employers. Why should some get to offload wage burden?

Glad Alberta has gotten rid of staggered minimum wage. It's discriminatory against employers. Why should some get to offload wage burden?

Same with Secretary Admin Day. Either workers perform a valuable service and should be paid or they do not. All positions should share in the bonus structure (if there is one). Most jobs have an element of admin work to them, even if it's just prepping your own reports. Logistics - admin or not? TDG compliance - admin or not?
https://www.youtube.com/attribution_link?a=OXhWbEksyJc&u=/watch?v%3D66d4h3TATVs%26feature%3Dplayer_embedded

Saturday 11 August 2018

Time and again women have shown themselves equal to men but it seems to need to be proven over and over.

Time and again women have shown themselves equal to men but it seems to need to be proven over and over.

No wonder my dad has such high expectations for me. In the 60s and 70s there were competitive intelligent women and I was expected to become one of them.
https://www.youtube.com/attribution_link?a=B3PelzEg64o&u=/watch?v%3DOCriEBIBihI%26feature%3Dplayer_embedded

Safety review before going on roof. Roof mount/dismount demo is especially helpful.

Safety review before going on roof. Roof mount/dismount demo is especially helpful.

Should be extended one more rung though and not sure the ladder is 1:4...that's the value of discussing:)
https://youtu.be/5q01UVDpZnY

This is interesting.

This is interesting.
http://www.dorkly.com/post/86896/centaur-med

Bennie at 11 weeks. He's busy and barky when he's not getting his way.


Bennie at 11 weeks. He's busy and barky when he's not getting his way.

Kinds of hard not being home. Our house is larger and not shared with others. He would be able to bark be denied immediate action a little more. Not to mention we have way more grass.

Temperature as a contraceptive? Nope. Anxiety about measuring wrapped up in an app. Talk about killing any mood.

Temperature as a contraceptive? Nope. Anxiety about measuring wrapped up in an app. Talk about killing any mood.

I would have been the perfect candidate. Stable relatonship, stable cycle - except for devestated if contraception failed. Jeez, this has all the trapping of naturopathy - well it is natural - with the justifications for not doing actual medical trials to assess effectiveness. I would imagine the rate of failure would be much higher simply for the reason stated in the link - the feeling of being naive. Unfortunately, the cost for naivety is an unwanted pregnancy .

BTW I did do the temperature tracking thing back in the day before apps. Bedside thermometer and graph paper. I could barely sleep because I was so concerned about accurate tepmeratures. Not great for me or the people who ad to deal with crabby me.
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2018/jul/21/colossally-naive-backlash-birth-control-app

Everything this thread says about the immaturity and myopia of software design is correct.

Everything this thread says about the immaturity and myopia of software design is correct.


❝ This is wildly disingenuous, I speak as a flight instructor and major IT incident investigator. Modern software authors have the professional discipline of a cute puppy in comparison to aviation practitioners. ❞


https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1027539289750429696.html

Thursday 9 August 2018

Good reason to get bumps removed professionally is the sac is removed to reduce the likelihood of recurrance. Less scarring is a bonus!

Good reason to get bumps removed professionally is the sac is removed to reduce the likelihood of recurrance. Less scarring is a bonus!

If you watch Dr. Pimplepopper on TLC you'll see she was not impressed with the guy that did his own surgery. While reasonable(?) for people without any coverage, I would get it done in a way I would get a biopsy and minimal scarring since I scar.
https://youtu.be/LRhQpXpvjhM

Twitter is a good way to point to government policy statements, provide a consistent voice and get citizen input.

Twitter is a good way to point to government policy statements, provide a consistent voice and get citizen input.

I can't count how many times Fred has asked how I know something and I've found out from...Government Accounts links on Twitter. I get that it's hard to do diplomacy in soundbites but the language Canadian government accounts uses is very conciliatory and rarely phrased as an absolute. Plus, other governments have the option of not responding to tweets.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/saudi-arabia-tweet-sanctions-canada-twitter-1.4777825

After 25 years of work by activists, women can now drive while all the activists are imprisoned. Do Canadians think that's a fair trade? Liberal Gov't doesn't think so.

After 25 years of work by activists, women can now drive while all the activists are imprisoned. Do Canadians think that's a fair trade? Liberal Gov't doesn't think so.

Sure we don't have a great track record with our indigenous population but we are working to improve and change comes slowly. In part that change comes from activist prompting. I support change from within rather than diplomatic pressures. If Canada folds the Middle East is ceded to "not necessarily benevolent" dictators. We are seen as an easy target because the US is busy trying to isolate us. Trudeau, for better or worse, represents the mores of the upcoming generation of world leaders. Which way will we go? Back to Nationalist win/lose diplomacy that foments war or forward to compromise and collaboration. Saudi Arabia's Prince would rather the former.

BTW Have your say on First Nations legislation
https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/indigenous-languages-legislation/intensive-engagement.html



https://www.cbc.ca/news/opinion/canada-saudi-arabia-1.4777882

Going down stairs is very intimidating for pups so the yard is Milo's last refuge...for now!


Going down stairs is very intimidating for pups so the yard is Milo's last refuge...for now!

I would pick a different year for hajj unless I was dying. There is no guarantee you would be able to come back to Canada, no embassy help and the US and UK governments are against Canada supporting Saudi Arabia on this.

I would pick a different year for hajj unless I was dying. There is no guarantee you would be able to come back to Canada, no embassy help and the US and UK governments are against Canada supporting Saudi Arabia on this.

How willing are you to embrace martyrdom? At minimum I would travel under a non-Canadian passport from a different country. A leader who gets in a knot about being urged would have no problem imprisoning people with citizenship to a country they have cut diplomatic ties to. Remember, the UK, our traditional alternate embassy, is standing with Saudi on this.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/canada-saudi-arabia-hajj-pilgrimage-1.4778452

Wednesday 8 August 2018

It's so hot the dogs are lying together...touching! They must be tired


It's so hot the dogs are lying together...touching! They must be tired

Just in case you're wondering why the US isn't saying more negative things about Saudi. Peas in a pod.

Just in case you're wondering why the US isn't saying more negative things about Saudi. Peas in a pod.


https://www.thecut.com/2018/08/migrant-asylum-domestic-violence-aclu-lawsuit.html?utm_source=nym&utm_medium=f1&utm_campaign=feed-part

Voting Software https://xkcd.com/2030/

Voting Software https://xkcd.com/2030/
https://xkcd.com/2030/

...explicit mottos are ‘Challenge convention’? Seems like this company is all about upholding social conventions

...explicit mottos are ‘Challenge convention’? Seems like this company is all about upholding social conventions

From focusing on female workers "personality" during performance review to the ever popular unless a man pitches the idea it's worthless. Shame they are being rewarded with financial success. Why do men get all this time to spend on personal pursuits while women do not anyway?
https://kotaku.com/inside-the-culture-of-sexism-at-riot-games-1828165483

If I were a Saudi student, I would say nothing to the press AND I would return to Saudi Arabia to keep family ties in place.

If I were a Saudi student, I would say nothing to the press AND I would return to Saudi Arabia to keep family ties in place.

Our loss would be financial and services but have no doubt those who do not return will face heavy emotional penalties.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/saudi-arabia-students-dispute-1.4776898

Veterinarians have the hardest emotional job in Canada. Empathy and business to deal with.

Veterinarians have the hardest emotional job in Canada. Empathy and business to deal with.

We have been lucky to have a group of vets that we see regularly. The group has gone through one sudden loss and two compassionate deaths with us. It's hard because they know us and our guys. I'm always shocked at how much a visit costs but then...they are business yet they provide over the phone care and often say not to come in.
https://mcgill.ca/oss/article/health/how-do-veterinarians-die

Bennie is a very picky eater. Today he foraged his food from top of hiskennel then ended up eating from Milo's bowl when Milo was done.


Bennie is a very picky eater. Today he foraged his food from top of his kennel then ended up eating from Milo's bowl when Milo was done.

Confirm (or register) to vote in Alberta 2019!

Confirm (or register) to vote in Alberta 2019!
https://enumeration.elections.ab.ca/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=2018-enumeration-phase-2&utm_content=g-graphic

Bennie is a Cairn Terrier named after Korben Dallas - who wrecked welcome havoc and saved the world in the movie The Fifth Element. His registered name will be along the lines of Korben the Fourth Element of Herzcairn.


Bennie is a Cairn Terrier named after Korben Dallas - who wrecked welcome havoc and saved the world in the movie The Fifth Element. His registered name will be along the lines of Korben the Fourth Element of Herzcairn.

He's getting a very different start to life than any of our other cairns because with retirement I have the time to start his day with a grooming. We brush teeth, comb hair and check toes for haggy nails. It's nice that it's summer. Milo came to us in October and Duffy at the end of November. House training is harder on the human in colder months - pups do their business quickly but all the coat stuff means it's easy to be late.

Since we picked his name early Judy could call him Bennie from the start and Bennie mostly knows his name. He has no idea who Duffy is which is ok since at this time we only use that name when Bennie is doing something undesirable LOL. We are really trying to do the positive training where we treat and praise; we do some "sit", "flat" and recalls with treats. We're also at Dad place for a month before going home to the big yard. Both Milo and Duffy spent their lives in one house. Bennie's getting is start at Dad's house; home will be big change with a larger yard and wider open spaces. He'll still have a wire kennel with his smaller home attached. We'll see how that works out.

Tuesday 7 August 2018

Sure - the problem is with harsh words like "urge" and progressive values like don't arrest human rights protestors and don't chop of hands and heads.

Sure - the problem is with harsh words like "urge" and progressive values like don't arrest human rights protestors and don't chop of hands and heads.

I hope Veitch is wrong but I know people like my in-laws are drifting further right every year as they listen to talk radio and rail at the government for not doing enough after natural disasters.
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1026653683381985280.html

Fred left for home while I stay with Dad until the end of the month. He's getting the Macan serviced on the way.


Fred left for home while I stay with Dad until the end of the month. He's getting the Macan serviced on the way.

Hopefully my pension documents will be at home and the new door will be waiting for installation.

Neither of us sleep well before travel and I am stunningly tired. Usually I sleep in the car during this part of the trip. Since Bennie is snoozing maybe I will too. It could be a long month. Puppy training and fence painting are my only plans. At least I have an exercise ball.

Who hasn't had a crush and tried to remake themselves into something for someone else? Then regretted when they got what they wanted? Not everyone is, or should be, a potential romantic relationship.

Who hasn't had a crush and tried to remake themselves into something for someone else? Then regretted when they got what they wanted? Not everyone is, or should be, a potential romantic relationship.
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1026525891185139712.html

I voted for a face eating leopard and it ate my face.

I voted for a face eating leopard and it ate my face.


https://www.cbc.ca/radio/asithappens/as-it-happens-wednesday-edition-1.4769851/ontario-pc-voter-worried-about-family-s-future-without-basic-income-pilot-1.4769853

Monday 6 August 2018

Anti-Capitalist Lesbian Witch — aloneindarknes7: calystarose: Because treating...


https://anti-capitalistlesbianwitch.tumblr.com/post/175995447076

Perhaps Canada will become nationalist by default. We have a pipeline...

Perhaps Canada will become nationalist by default. We have a pipeline...

Seriously - the Saudi students can go home. And "joking" about a retaliatory terrorist attack. They had great success in 2001 with no consequences so why not do it again.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-saudi-diplomacy-reaction-1.4775545?cmp=rss

Society is often at a loss when dealing with trolls. Funny how "just igore him" doesn't seem to be a strategy being considered.

Society is often at a loss when dealing with trolls. Funny how "just igore him" doesn't seem to be a strategy being considered.

Yep, Markle's step family is a bunch of trolls and will continue to make their mark as long as people are too polite to call them out. Where does not responding get them? Escalating action that the gossips lap up. This is why I don't watch "reality" TV or read even headlines of what used to be referred to as tabloids. Eyeballs give economic gain.
https://www.thecut.com/2018/08/meghan-markle-dad-thomas-buckingham-palace.html?utm_source=nym&utm_medium=f1&utm_campaign=feed-part

Join In Daily. #joinindaily with Johnny Wills


Join In Daily. #joinindaily with Johnny Wills

Today's theme is "Walking !"

Bennie had his first walk on a leash today. Pretty good. No leash eating.

Weather changes fast in the mountains. Always check in with Forestry if you are not familiar with the area or planning a multi-day hike.

Weather changes fast in the mountains. Always check in with Forestry if you are not familiar with the area or planning a multi-day hike.

I've have friends end up unexpectedly sleeping on a rock face. It's especially important to take an extra layer regardless of the time of year. The Rockies are much higher than they appear from roadways and parking lots. Get info at the Park gates.
https://freethoughtblogs.com/reprobate/2018/08/06/the-cold-calculus-of-hiking/

Sunday 5 August 2018

Bennie's ears are starting to stand up.


Bennie's ears are starting to stand up.

And he's also suspicious of the phone 😁

There are fathers and there are Dads. Strive for Dad.

There are fathers and there are Dads. Strive for Dad.

Most of the men I know with children are definitely dads. They do stuff with their kids and do the best they can to be thoughtful humans.
https://youtu.be/MYr37PT_rI4

Saturday 4 August 2018

Nailed it. I kept waiting for the "great movie" to appear...and I like Tom Cruise movies.

Nailed it. I kept waiting for the "great movie" to appear...and I like Tom Cruise movies.

Edge of Tomorrow - loved it. Jack Reacher - really enjoy. Even the past M:I movies were enjoyable.
https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2018/08/04/fire-all-the-writers/

As an ex-employee and a shareholder I don't see why money can't be divided between all stakeholders. Some for pay boosts, some for research and some for production efficiencies that reduce pollution conserving resources.

As an ex-employee and a shareholder I don't see why money can't be divided between all stakeholders. Some for pay boosts, some for research and some for production efficiencies that reduce pollution conserving resources.

Without employees (aka workers) companies would not be able to be sucessful. That's why employers are always complaining about workers - and vice versa. Companies broke the employer/employee relationship by extracting wealth instead of sharing it. Of course this affect small businesses most as they are more affected by employee malfeance but small business insists they are the same as big business. And their are always efficiencies that could be implemented there is just no impetuous to do so without fines and other retaliatory measures from government's.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/stock-buybacks-analysis-1.4771344

As an ex-employee and a shareholder I don't see why money can't be divided between all stakeholders. Some for pay boosts, some for research and some for production efficiencies that reduce pollution conserving resources.

As an ex-employee and a shareholder I don't see why money can't be divided between all stakeholders. Some for pay boosts, some for research and some for production efficiencies that reduce pollution conserving resources.

Without employees (aka workers) companies would not be able to be sucessful. That's why employers are always complaining about workers - and vice versa. Companies broke the employer/employee relationship by extracting wealth instead of sharing it. Of course this affect small businesses most as they are more affected by employee malfeance but small business insists they are the same as big business. And their are always efficiencies that could be implemented there is just no impetuous to do so without fines and other retaliatory measures from government's.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/stock-buybacks-analysis-1.4771344

Friday 3 August 2018

Samsung's new Galaxy Tab S4 tries to emulate a full PC experience with smaller bezels, a bigger battery, and a much-needed computational boost. #Reviews #Samsung #SamsungDeX

Samsung's new Galaxy Tab S4 tries to emulate a full PC experience with smaller bezels, a bigger battery, and a much-needed computational boost. #Reviews #Samsung #SamsungDeX
https://www.androidauthority.com/samsung-galaxy-tab-s4-review-891863/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=gplus

Bennie is big enough to come up the stairs.


Bennie is big enough to come up the stairs.

And his ears are starting to prick up a bit.

Doctors can be real jerks to people who aren't not skinny looking - regardless of patient's health.

Doctors can be real jerks to people who aren't not skinny looking - regardless of patient's health.

When I was having trouble conceiving I had low hormone levels so my Doctor sent me to an endocrinologist. He said my hormone levels were low to normal and if I lost 20 pounds I would probably concieve. I weighed 140-ish. At 5'4" (164 cm) that didn't even hit the overweight standard at the time. And I was healthy, jogging and keeping active. Asshole.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/opinion/fat-shaming-obit-1.4772033

Long excerpt piqued my interest. I found the movie too graphic with all the eating

Long excerpt piqued my interest. I found the movie too graphic with all the eating

One way to enjoy a story is to read it and let your imagination roam (or not in my case). It's a fascinating idea.
https://io9.gizmodo.com/read-an-excerpt-from-garrison-girl-the-first-full-leng-1828063705

Thursday 2 August 2018

A tale of 2 perspectives. Dad is selling his project cars and someone came to take a look.


A tale of 2 perspectives. Dad is selling his project cars and someone came to take a look.

There was a bit of a language barrier plus dad speaks loudly and gruffly because he thinks he hears just fine. We were leaving when the guy and spouse arrived. Guy big smile and shaking hands with dad who is ... loud and gruff although he did shake hands after a minute.

Fred said he didn't think the guy would buy the cars, look at the beat up van he was driving. I said you never know, people have friends who can help move things and if he likes to work on cars these are great because there is almost zero electronics.

Got home and after some dealing the cars are sold for $1K and the guy will bring friend with a truck Monday, left a car battery as security. I asked dad if he was sure it was sold and he said oh yes, he was driving a nice van. (The perception thing)

Turns out the guy is a Syrian refugee who was a mechanic in his home country and enjoys working on cars. Dad seems to think he would have a pretty good job due to his skills; I'm not so sure. In any case, hopefully he'll get an enjoyable project and if he can sell for a good price after more power to him. I may be helping clean out the garage while Fred is at home.

This is a magic kennel. All the dogs have liked hanging out in it. Bennie got a really great start from his breeder. He almost knows his name, went outside and peed on his pee mat on the deck and is learning to sit when he comes over. As a bonus he styles my hair (with his teeth) while I'm doing push ups.


This is a magic kennel. All the dogs have liked hanging out in it. Bennie got a really great start from his breeder. He almost knows his name, went outside and peed on his pee mat on the deck and is learning to sit when he comes over. As a bonus he styles my hair (with his teeth) while I'm doing push ups.

People seem to think Alberta is US lite. Actually that would be Ontario with their one or two multicultural cities. It's why they are so affected by US policy.

People seem to think Alberta is US lite. Actually that would be Ontario with their one or two multicultural cities. It's why they are so affected by US policy.

Alberta may seem like Texas but we've always had science based environmental law and had the Heritage fund which saved some of the royalty earning to better everyone. We were lucky to get the NDP in which really runs on progressive ideals of helping lower income citizens to help a capitalist economy thrive. Lower income earners drive the economy as they must spend a lot of their income on daily living so they can't hoard their money like the wealthy can. Small businesses drive the economy because they hire more people as they can't be as efficient as multinational or even large businesses. Guess who gets decent tax breaks in Alberta? Low income earners and small business. As a wealthier person, the carbon tax doesn't really affect my budget and we can work to reduce our footprint which is what it's about.

Canadians go along with a political party until they don't. Any political party that is in for too long gets complacent and less transparent. I hope Ontarians enjoy their time with Ford and his party of austerity for all but business.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-cap-and-trade-announcement-1.4771123?cmp=rss

Where you are in life would certainly affect how you handle joint financial obligations.

Where you are in life would certainly affect how you handle joint financial obligations.

Fred and I were a pretty traditional couple. We each brought a vehicle to the marriage and I had a student loan. That made it easy(ier) to combine income into one pot to ensure equal distribution should the marriage fail. After all, neither of us would be able to pursue the career choices we made without the other. I also changed my name because I was starting in a new field and had no reputation to protect.

Now would be different. If something happened to Fred and I entered another relationship (super unlikely) I would contribute to a joint account to share expenses. My spending habits are none of their business, also they would be under no obligation to help me out of debt.


https://www.thecut.com/2018/08/how-to-approach-money-matters-with-a-live-in-partner.html?utm_source=nym&utm_medium=f1&utm_campaign=feed-part

Where you are in life would certainly affect how you handle joint financial obligations.

Where you are in life would certainly affect how you handle joint financial obligations.

Fred and I were a pretty traditional couple. We each brought a vehicle to the marriage and I had a student loan. That made it easy(ier) to combine income into one pot to ensure equal distribution should the marriage fail. After all, neither of us would be able to pursue the career choices we made without the other. I also changed my name because I was starting in a new field and had no reputation to protect.

Now would be different. If something happened to Fred and I entered another relationship (super unlikely) I would contribute to a joint account to share expenses. My spending habits are none of their business, also they would be under no obligation to help me out of debt.


https://www.thecut.com/2018/08/how-to-approach-money-matters-with-a-live-in-partner.html?utm_source=nym&utm_medium=f1&utm_campaign=feed-part

This is consistent with a pro-life stance. The Saskatchewan Separate School system also teaches sex education.

This is consistent with a pro-life stance. The Saskatchewan Separate School system also teaches sex education.

I have hopes that someday the church will show their respect for women as more than fetus receptacles by supporting birth control that prevents conception. I have no expectation they would change their stance on when life "begins".
https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/catholic-church-catechism-death-penalty-1.4771029

Seems about right.

Seems about right.

I want to hear no more complaining about millenials.

I want to hear no more complaining about millenials.

I realize some of these parents in fall into the millennial cohort but the ones being vilified for not pursuing the traditional "American dream" of infinite debt though home ownership and children are not them.
http://www.weightymatters.ca/2018/08/apparently-some-parents-are-hiring.html

I used to think separate entries was a fair solution to integrating low income housing. Upon thought I realize how discriminatory it is. Separate play area was rightly rejected.

I used to think separate entries was a fair solution to integrating low income housing. Upon thought I realize how discriminatory it is. Separate play area was rightly rejected.

Vancouver is the most expensive city in the world to live in. I've certainly noticed that pricing is no lower here than it is at home - an isolated small city in the middle of the Prairies. That means, with the low minimum wage people are likely to be working full time but remain "struggling". Nothing about affordable housing requires grime and unhealthy living other than people's perceptions. I hope the social income tenants make their entry warm and inviting of social gathering to meet their neighbours.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/west-end-social-housing-separate-entrances-1.4768980

Why are emotions assumed to be "wrong" instead of a reflection of societal mores? Surely everything we do is influenced by emotion.

Why are emotions assumed to be "wrong" instead of a reflection of societal mores? Surely everything we do is influenced by emotion.

What are trials other than attempts to sway emotional responses...into the emotional responses of the dominant culture. Another reason for men to be comfortable with a wide range of emotional responses.

http://www.shakesville.com/2018/08/more-thoughts-on-playing-woman-card.html This attempt at sterility does no one any good and creates a vengance rather than justice system.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/it-s-ok-to-cry-in-the-courtroom-even-if-you-re-a-judge-law-professors-say-1.4769694

Wednesday 1 August 2018

Our dogs have used pop bottles for toys. Bennie needed an introduction.


Our dogs have used pop bottles for toys. Bennie needed an introduction.

Lots of treats later and he no longer gives us a wide berth. Earlier today he pulled over an aluminum ladder and was back playing by it immediately. Must be the noise.