It Happens, But Not Often

A relative called to ask about their water well yesterday evening. They said they had low pressure today, and wondered why. I told them I would have a look, and went to examine the well. 

When I arrived, they pointed to the ground around the well, and stated it looked like it was leaking below the discharge line to the tank. I noticed the well wasn't running, and there was no pressure. Since we just had a heavy shower, and an examination of the points on the pressure switch showed it should be running,  I told them I would go for my multi-meter and check the voltage. 

After I returned, I checked the voltage at the switch. There was none, so I went to the breaker box. There was no voltage on the load side of the breaker, so I flipped it off, turned it back on, and checked again. Still no voltage. I flipped the breaker a few more times, but it didn't have a sharp click when flipped. So, since it was so late, and finding a breaker would mean a long trip to a box store, I told them I would pull it in the morning and find a replacement. 

I found the breaker this morning, replaced it, and checked the well for operation. It pressured up, so they have water again. As far as the low pressure they had, it was the tank emptying, and the air bladder allowed a little pressure before the pressure went to zero.

It's rare to have a breaker fail, but with the thunderstorm yesterday, we had a power blip, which probably killed the old breaker. It's a Square D, and not the Homeline series. They usually last a long time, but some don't; especially if they're used as a switch on a circuit that usually isn't turned off.

Garter Visitor

While sitting on the porch the other evening, my wife noticed a small garter snake under her chair. Surprisingly, she didn't panic, and only shooed it away. It slithered from the porch, only to appear a little later. 

I knew why it was on the porch. The porch light attracts the little tree frogs, and the frogs attract the little snake. It will eventually find one, have its meal, and disappear for a few weeks. It will be back for another meal, and I consider it a welcome visitor. It's harmless, and hungry. It will never be big, and the larger snakes have a good source of meals on the neighbor's property. There are plenty of chickens for a meal, and if the snakes can make it pass the pigs, they might have a chick, or an egg, for supper.

It Was Loud

We had 4 inches of rain yesterday. The result was saturated ground and ponding. After the sunset, and night fell, the cacophony of frogs filled the air. The noise was beyond the point of distraction and drowned out just about any other sound. I listened for awhile, and after having enough of the "chorus", I went back inside to have some peace. It's almost hard to believe there are that many frogs locally, but their calls in the night verify their number.

Changing a Carburetor

After dealing with removing a fuel tank, cleaning the tank, changing the filter, and putting everything back together, my efforts were a failure. My four-wheeler was still dying, and now became really hard to start. I had to do more. I had good spark, but I still needed to check the coil to determine if it was weak.

I checked the coil. The ohm reading indicated it was good. That left removing the carburetor and either rebuilding it, or replacing it. This led me to looking at the price of a new carburetor, or a rebuild kit. 

The manufacturer price for the carburetor was $450. A look at Amazon found a rebuild kit for $33, or a replacement carburetor for $32 delivered to my doorstep. I crossed my fingers, after reading reviews, and ordered the carburetor. The next step was the arduous task of removing fenders, the fuel tank, the air filter housing and finally: the carburetor.  

The carburetor was delayed in arrival, but finally arrived late Monday morning. Installing it was the reverse of removing it. I finally reached the point I could check the operation around 6:00 pm. It ran like a champ, so I started replacing all the parts required to complete the assembly. I finished right before dark, put up my tools, and breathed a sigh of relief. 

So, I have to give the engineers credit for designing the machine. The details required to design it, insure the operation, have all the parts either manufactured, or bought, and mass producing the machine is an accomplishment. The task is way beyond my expertise, and I'm impressed. 

Ignorance Can Hurt

 I was reading an article about a CNN reporter that was hit with a rubber bullet fired by a police officer in Los Angeles. Considering the orchestrated media coverage, how many individuals are videoing the mayhem, and how any police officer wouldn't have the time to differentiate rioters from media, wandering into the melee is pure madness. Ignorance can hurt, and it seems many in the media are afflicted with this ignorance. 

Like Matt Dillon

I've been watching old Gunsmoke episodes. The best are the thirty-minute episodes of the first six seasons, which were more succinct in revealing the plot, and the ultimate conclusion. Usually the conclusion was lawless behavior didn't benefit a healthy society, and regardless of opinions, laws against public safety sometime require drastic actions for prevention and vigilantism can be more dangerous than any crime. Most importantly, the show revealed the imperfections in law enforcement, and how the anarchic nature of people can appear when there are no rules for a good society. That, and how corruption can destroy a city, and outright attacks sometimes require drastic actions.

The L.A. riots currently happening are the epitome of a group of people out of control, desperately needing to be stopped, and unhindered by either a feckless, or complicit government. Sending in the National Guard guarantees two things: One is the safety of those arresting illegal invaders, and the other is the protection of the rights, property, and safety of citizens not involved. It never should have reached this point, but there is a seditious effort to destroy the city, those involved are desperate, or paid, and the drastic step of sending in the National Guard is the last measure to insure the peace of the city. 

Many in California proclaim how important the state is due to the size of the economy. The same could be said if the cartels were given full control. It's not about the money. It's about the rights of all, and the guarantee crime is not used to achieve a selfish goal. When unbridled violence is used to control, the result is a society fearful of its safety, and actions that can only be described a terrorism. 

To Some, It Was a Short Day

I've read that the landing scene in "Saving Private Ryan" is the best portrayal of the actual event. Watching it causes a visceral reaction, and those that were at the landings on Normandy were forever branded with the ravages of a battle that changed the world. Many died before they ever reached the beaches, while some died trying to secure the beaches for the landing of more troops and supplies. Those that survived were destined to continue until Germany failed. Those that made it home would mostly never talk about their time during WW2, and quietly try to reassemble what were once the thoughts of young men. The bizarre thoughts of a one time paper hanger had marred their existence.

After 81 years, even the youngest that fought on D-Day are centenarians or gone. Pausing to remember them is important. What they fought against wasn't isolated, and the sentiments of those that hate are still present.

Venting

I received a notice that my Medicare supplement insurance premium is being raised. It's more of the same line of crap that is being peddled by everyone, including Trump. Regardless of opinions, the way to solve many of the nation's problems requires solutions harder than just letting the Baby Boomers die off, and being rid of their ridiculous ideas about religion, work, responsibility, and national pride. Stringing them on a few more years removes many, and even those still alive can be easily handled due to their age.

*spit*

Neighbor's Success

A neighbor mentioned he was planning on raising pea fowl months ago. Over time, I could hear them calling, which always reminds me of the old Tarzan movies. The female would wonder over with a juvenile, but the male would perch where he could see over the fence and not venture away from his area. 

Last week, the female, and the juvenile, wandered into the yard. Along with the female were two chicks, which are not hatchlings, but definitely young. I went to get them some bird feed. They followed me to the can where we keep the feed, and as I turned to throw some feed, the mother snatched a bite from my hand.  

So, now they visit, peck for spilled bird food, and wander through the yard. I have to look before I let my dog out, since he will chase them, and the younger birds haven't yet learned to fly. They're interesting to watch, and I wonder if they'll avoid any predators or the dogs in the neighborhood. Hopefully so. I like them more than the chickens, ducks, and geese that wander through. 

The Day After Memorial Day

I had a lot of thoughts yesterday. Reading posts about remembering, and how so many lost so much, with the fact many were just cannon fodder thrown at an enemy, left a loss of words. I know the results of war, and have friends that spent long hours in terror in Vietnam. They had stories, but none told about those they knew that didn't come back, except one. His brother-in-law was in a tank unit, and died horribly when the tank was hit. It burned, and he didn't get out. His high school photo showed a smiling face filled with the exuberance of youth. His photo while in Vietnam showed a thousand yard stare. My friend spent years suffering from a syndrome that didn't allow him to stay anywhere for any length of time. We lost contact, and the years that passed tell me I'll never see him again.

It is, what it is, but one day for honor doesn't seem enough. The theaters such as Vietnam show the unconscionable waste of life to satisfy the whims of politics. May we never see them again, but that's a foolish wish. The evil of the world is always present, and the battle of good over evil continues. 

Scrapes and Bruises

I wrote a longer post about some mechanical problems, but it didn't fit my mood, nor explain some complex issues. To cut it short, two problems developed: one was the replacing of a blade clutch that cut a belt on a riding lawnmower, and the other was the replacing of a fuel filter on a four wheeler. The blade clutch is done, but I'm not completely sure about the four wheeler. I removed the tank, found almost a complete clog in the fuel valve, put it all back together, and it still had some running issues. I'll change the plug and hope I don't have to rebuild the carburetor. 

I don't have detailed repair manuals. I usually will find a parts diagram, which is an exploded view of different components, and parts numbers. It can be tedious to decipher and makes me feel like a NTSB investigator examining the parts of a crashed jet. That, and the part number, when given to a dealer, results in a price that most people would call ransom. I understand they need to make some money, but when a part has to be ordered, and you can find the same thing online at a substantially lower price, you realize their markup, and sometimes it is beyond reasonable. 

Anyway, today I might fiddle with the four wheeler, or not. My back hurts from scurrying around under things and finding muscles I put in storage decades ago. That, and it's been in the 90's with 700% humidity. Those conditions mean you have to snorkel in hot water, without a mask to keep the salt water from your eyes. Adding some direct sun, for me, means covering myself with a hoodie to avoid more skin cancer. Although it's not a crises, some might think so, and anxiety will rear its ugly head. 

....and I have to add my hands, and arms, look like I've been in a claw-hammer fight with a three armed Ninja. I think engineers deliberately add extra torque on bolts to insure you smash you hand into something when the bolt finally comes loose. That, and some extra sharp edges to catch some skin when you reach into a tight area. 

I Need Some Information

 I'm kicking around with publishing a book of short stories. I've looked at Kindle Publishing, read reviews about the company, and contemplating publishing it myself. What I don't know is whether it's a tremendously complicated task, or something easily handled with a little patience and focus. Any advice is welcome.

Lost Burgers

In the past, all the local cities had two, or three, burger joints. Some had curb-side service, with some of the waitresses on roller skates. All had burgers made from select beef patties that were made by the cook. Usually, it was a mom-and-pop business, with family members as part of the staff. Some people had their own favorite place, but none served anything as objectionable as what is sometimes found today in nation-wide fast food chains. The owners had a pride that can't be reproduced. They wanted their burger to be the best, and they were successful in their effort.

Those days are gone. The small burger joints couldn't compete with the fast food restaurants, and most eventually closed. They're not completely gone, but you have to look to find them, and many times, the wait is long for a burger. That, and for many locations, a fairly long trip is required to visit. 

While there are many chains trying to present the same experience, they fail in the process. Mass produced patties just don't compare, and many times the beef isn't as tasty. Whataburger is close, but it's still not the same. There was something about the seasoning, the hand-cut fries, hand-battered onion rings, and all served in a plastic basket that can't be mass produced. Even the soft drinks had a richer flavor. They syrup could be manipulated by the owner, and the more syrup, the better the soft drink. 

So, those days may be gone, but there are still some places to be found. Usually for me, it's around an hour each way for the hamburger I crave. It's worth it.

It's Been This Way A Long Time

There's some irritation, conjecture, finger-pointing, and denials about Joe Biden having advanced cancer. Pundits, and experts, are theorizing on how long it was known, and how the media was silent. It's no different that when FDR was in such poor health, he required a wheelchair most of the time, and few citizens knew about it, while the press kept quiet. It's the game of using the power of the pen to determine policy, regardless of how the power wielded by a compromised important officials can be used for personal purposes. 

A Problem That Needs Solving

From what I see, nobody that works for the Feds can be fired without permission. That's a problem, which is probably due to undue union influence, which is another problem that needs solving. Public sector workers should never be allowed to negotiate, since those that pay their salaries have too little input into the process. When you add the approval of anyone else, including federal judges, the most important task of any employer is removed. They don't control their position, since their position is basically feckless due to their inability to determine who works for them. It's like hiring a plumber to fix a drain they're unable to fix, but you have to keep paying them, continue with a broken drain, and you have to go to a judge to fire them. That's unacceptable. 

Now What Happens?

If a man in a wheelchair in Podunk writes a nasty letter, calling for mayhem, and sends it to the President, they'll kick down his door, go through everything he has, probably arrest him, and make his life miserable. Comey posts a photo of his desires written in shells, and he'll probably just get a phone call. That's what justice has become in the United States. Until those with connections are held to the same standards as citizens with very little, there is no justice, and regardless of what your "betters" tell you, that's the way it is. That's why those Epstein bought are still not in jail. That's why judges get away with breaking the law. That's why outright slanderous calls for violence by the media are ignored. That's why people are fed up with the justice system.

Now We'll See if She Will Have Charges Dismissed

 Hannah Dugan made headlines when she hampered the arrest of an illegal alien. She is now under indictment, and has filed a motion of having her charges dismissed. I doubt the court will allow that, and the legal rigamarole starts. Next, they'll try for a change in venue, while digging for dirt on the court with jurisdiction. There will be numerous announcement hearings, where they'll try to avoid a plea for a long time. If I had to guess, if she ever makes it to the point she has to plea, it will be well over a year from now. 

Rice Rockets and Mayhem

 I live close enough to a rural winding highway to hear the motorcycles as they travel. The Harleys have their special rumble, and there may be many as they go on their weekend rides. The what I call rice rockets have a different sound. The riders have a mostly clear straightaway after a long curve, and that is where they open up, lay low over the handlebars, and reach speeds a sane person would not want to reach. We have had a few accidents, but no fatalities, but it could happen. There are deer, trees very close to the highway, and plenty of driveways on blind curves. Mistakes at around 100 mph don't lead to skinned shins, or a few bruises. I hope it doesn't happen, but it's almost a guarantee it will.

That Day Again

My mother's been gone for over a decade. My wife's mother has been gone longer. Still, there is a reason to think about our mothers today. They raised us, regardless of all our efforts to ignore their teachings, refuse to accept their wisdom, and not realizing the number of visits are numbered. They put up with our ignorance, loved us despite our faults, and sacrificed more than we'll ever know. Today, we can only miss them, and the things they taught.

So, There's a New Pope

 I don't know anything about the new Pope, except he's from the United States. So is Pelosi, Schumer, AOC, all the Bidens and the list goes on. What he does is how I'll develop my opinion of the lead politician of the Catholics. Maybe he'll do something good, but history shows he may not.

Today Is The Day

From what I've been reading, after today, certain forms of identification are required for domestic flights. Media outlets are reporting the outrage of this requirement every chance they get, and many are irritated they have now have to have this identification, but the law was passed twenty years ago, and there has been plenty of time.  

Right after the attacks in 2001, most industrial facilities required a Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC). At the beginning, a driver license was an acceptable form of identification for the card. After 2005, to have it renewed, an original, or certified copy, of a birth certificate was required for most people. There were other acceptable ID's, but I don't remember what they were. Without the card, I was forbidden to enter any dock, which included every petrochemical facility where I worked, even though I'd worked in most for years. Even the guards recognized me, but would turn me away if I didn't have the card, which required over a hundred dollars of my money every few years to update, and my fingerprints.

So, here we are. They're cracking down on those that probably are not dangerous, but it is what it is. I have some sympathy for those that have to jump through hoops to obtain the correct paperwork for their identification, but not much. There was no hoopla when I had to jump through hoops to keep working, and dealing with a bureaucracy to get a certified copy of my birth certificate took more time than I wished to give.

A Tale of Two Bridges (Part Two)

 I wrote about this bridge a few weeks ago. Since then, the contractor has removed the approaches, including the fill for the approach headers. This weekend, if the weather didn't shut down the contractor, the interstate will be detoured to the service roads and the spans over the highway removed. It's something I would like to watch, but I have a feeling even trying to get close will be a lesson in futility. 

I have a feeling the contractor will work, regardless of the weather. Demolition of this type will not be hampered by bad soil conditions, and if the contractor planned accordingly, the remainder of the bridge has a hard surfaced place to be stored. It can all be done if it's raining, and considering the scope of the work, backing out is really not an option.

So, how would I perform this job? It's a simple task, and easily performed with the right equipment. The concrete between the girders is broken quickly with large breakers on tracked excavators that work their way back to the approaches. The reinforcement is cut as the machines break the concrete, and the rubble is loaded into dump trucks by front end loaders. After the material is hauled away, large mobile cranes can lift the girders and load them on extendable haul trailers. The girders are then delivered to another crane at the disposal area. The columns, and caps, can be broken with the same large excavators, and the rubble cleaned after they're removed. 

The hardest part of the work is logistics. Traffic control devices need to be at locations long before the work begins, and staged for quick placement. There is only a window from 8:00 pm Friday to 5:00 am Monday. When the okay is given, all side streets are closed, channelizing devices remove traffic from the interstate, and the work begins. Those in traffic on the interstate will face long delays due to the detours. 

The equipment has to be on hand, with spares available at a moments notice. This includes all heavy equipment, cranes, dump trucks, haul trucks, light towers, cutting torches, and electronic traffic control devices. Police presence needs to be on site, and public notices on all available media. Multiple crews will be required, since the work is around the clock until complete. 

I'll post any photos I can find, when they're available. I might even go and take a gander. Time will tell, but this one is something to watch.

Analyzing the Market

New homes are expensive. Older homes are expensive, too. Home prices have now reached the point a few percentage points in interest can lead to not having the ability to purchase a home. So, who will blink first? Lenders, those selling homes, or those buying homes? If the product is beyond what people can, or will, pay, either the price goes down, or the seller has to sit on their merchandise. 

Even rental prices are going beyond what people can pay. That, in my opinion, will break the stalemate. Large apartment complexes are money pits without renters. They're building them as fast as they can, hoping the market will support the endeavor. I don't think it will, and either the prices go down, or the properties are sold at a reduced price (future lower rents). Bankruptcy for the investors is always an option, but leads to problems with future investment opportunities. In the end, all that invested in the bloated market will suffer. It's now only how much money will be lost.

A Question for Doctors and NP's

When I was young, a visit to the doctor was and annual occurrence. at most, for a DPT booster...if something like a broken bone, or stitches, wasn't required. I remember four events that required a special visit. One was for stitching up my chin after trying to tight-rope walk on a bassinet. One was for a broken finger while playing dodge ball, one was for addressing red streaks running up my leg after being stung by a wasp, and one was for being knocked out, with a concussion, while playing softball in gym. Bad scrapes, cuts that didn't cause large open wounds, colds, flu, measles, mumps, and chicken pox were handled at home without a visit to the doctor. A visit to the ER was out of the question. That was for life-threatening events, which was decided by parents, emergency personnel, and finances. 

Today, people go to urgent care, or emergency rooms, for things not contemplated as requiring such things in the past. A visit to either shows people ratchet-jawing on their phone as they wait for the doctor, or nurse practitioner. Very sick children I can understand, but when they're fidgeting, complaining, and don't show any sign of severe malaise, or injury, I wonder if there is really a necessity for the visit. That brings me to my question: What percentage of visits are medically necessary, and what percentage could have been handled at home, with over the counter medications? It seems the percentage is probably too high for unnecessary visits, but that's just an opinion.

Paying Their Debt For a Student Loan

I can't fathom the amount of money given to students without any collateral, especially the loans secured by the stealing of money from taxpayers. It's over a trillion dollars, with a substantial amount of the loans in default. So, without any recourse, except for wage garnishment, how are taxpayers going to be reimbursed for the largess of some corrupt politicians? 

Should universities be on the hook for the majority of the unpaid debt? Even our local university used the easiness of securing a loan to peddle degrees that flooded the market with potential employees without an avenue toward a job in the future. Many were two year technical degrees, but the market didn't support the number of students. That's unconscionable,  and the stupidity should fall on the university. If they have to rob their trusts, sell some of their real estate, and lay off some of their employees, then maybe that's part of the solution. They sold their snake oil, and it's time they became responsible for the problems they created. 

What about the politicians? They were involved with passing legislation that allowed the waste of taxpayer funds. Maybe their pensions should be taken, their salaries garnished, and those still in office faced with a very small staff. No junkets, fact finding missions, and no travel on military aircraft. They created this problem, and should bear some of the costs. 

The students are responsible too. They signed the agreement, and many either are paying in good faith, or have paid off their loans, but the default rate is too high. To make things worse, with the only jobs available for some degrees, and income that doesn't support the loan amount, paying the loan, and living, can't happen. That money is lost, and recovery will never happen. 

So, it appears the only loser in this student loan debacle is the taxpayers that produced, had their income reduced to pay for student loans, and were betrayed by the government. Expecting them to burden more is not an option. If the government has to sell off some national parks, stop giving any money in foreign aid, and go after the money promised to be repaid after the last world war, then so be it. Enough is enough, and it's time this problem is solved.

New Eye Glasses

 I've worn glasses for years. They correct for astigmatism, and seeing closely. I've always worn progressive lens glasses, until this time. I decided on bifocals, which don't require finding the "sweet spot" for whatever is being observed. It's a change, and typing at the computer now requires my readers. I can use the bifocals, but they cause an unnatural tilting of my head, and I'm finding the neck strain I would have is gone. Also, my peripheral vision is better. I don't have to turn my head as far to see side road traffic. That would exacerbate my sore neck. Still it's a change, but in the next few years, my ophthalmologist thinks cataract surgery will be required for my cataracts. As of now, I don't have the terrible night vision, or the dullness of light advanced cataracts can cause.  

High Level Incompetence

I've worked with some highly qualified people that were a credit to their profession. Their knowledge allowed them to make good choices, justified their position, and eliminated the boondoggles that happen on every project. Most had some years under their belt, but there were younger professionals that were a credit to their advanced education. 

As time went on, and my years increased in construction, I found of who should have been the culls still in positions they couldn't handle, and in many situations, those in the public sector were advanced in position to solve the problem of not being able to terminate their employment. Their power was wielded without understanding the costs, or damage to their reputation. One, I called the "Smiling Menace". They grinned like a jackass eating briars constantly, and regardless of how ridiculous their decisions were, held fast to their decisions because their ignorance overruled their knowledge. 

The article below explains the problems with universities. Those that should have never reached the top in running the university now hold positions they use to stroke their incompetency fueled ego. They're releasing graduates that have degrees that demand a competency they don't have, and the ultimate result will be a strong unwillingness to hire those from these universities, and a suspicion of college graduates.

Link 

The Might of the Rank

I've been watching the news reports about base commanders pulling rank, thumbing their noses at the highest ranking members of the military, and forgetting their arbitrary abuse of power can be their downfall. Maybe they think they're right, but in the military, you're subordinate to the President and Vice President. Piss them off, and you might find yourself walking down the road and kicking cans.

What Covid Taught Us

The Covid debacle taught a substantial amount of people are considered useless by the evil minions of death we call "government". Doctors, food service workers, construction workers, maintenance workers, law enforcement workers and some in the military were shown they're just slaves; and those slaves willing to take an injection of slow poisoning were guaranteed their service wouldn't be needed in the future after the imported slaves (that never received the injection) took over. There's no other way to look at it, and those involved with this subterfuge need to be hanged.

Current Supreme Court Order

I read the current order by the Supreme Court in answer to detainees fighting being removed by Trump. 

 A.A.R.P., ET AL. V. TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF U.S., ET AL.  There is before the Court an application on behalf of a putative class of detainees seeking an injunction against their removal under the Alien Enemies Act. The matter is currently pending before the Fifth Circuit. Upon action by the Fifth Circuit, the Solicitor General is invited to file a response to the application before this Court as soon as possible.  The Government is directed not to remove any member of the putative class of detainees from the United States until further order of this Court. See 28 U. S. C. §1651(a). Justice Thomas and Justice Alito dissent from the Court’s order. Statement from Justice Alito to follow. 

It doesn't demand a release, or confer with the judgement of the lower court. It does state the matter is currently pending in the Fifth Circuit Court, and pending that decision, will address the matter in the future if necessary. What happens in the future will be determined by the action of the Fifth Circuit.

Add: Judge Alito isn't pleased with the backdoor method of allowing an injunction filed without due process, and ignoring procedure. My guess is DEI/EEO....whatever it's called these days is at work. Some of the justices tasks are so far over their head, they have to reach up to dust the baseboards. Others were bitten by a Marxist and are suffering accordingly. 

Low Life Without Sense

This Senator is a certifiable ass-clown. His being in office makes me wonder if the drinking water in Maryland is tainted.  Personally, I think his action is criminal, and if he's flying on taxpayer money, he should be forced to reimburse taxpayers for his trip. After that, censure him. 

A Quick Thought

Is it considered a foul in Women's sport for a player to kick a transgender opponent in the balls?

The New Slush Fund?

 I've noticed the AARP is being pushed by the Hartford to attract clients. If I had to guess, the exposure of how AARP reaped billions from skimming a percentage of premiums from United Healthcare is either wanting them to get out from under the microscope, or the executives want a raise. It's a billion dollar slush fund, and substantially more than is taken in from membership. According to a news report I read, the partnership between AARP and United Healthcare is reaching the point of renewal (or not) this year, which would mean they find a new source of income, or possibly face scrutiny they don't want. Regardless, neither really cares much for seniors, although they do care for their Social Security, and Medicare, benefits. 

I'm Wondering About the Reason

Locally, the nearest big city has had a rash of auto-pedestrian accidents. Is it there are just more reports by the media? Is it more people making foolish choices in their attempt to cross the street? Are the people getting hit intoxicated? Are people driving too fast? Are people looking at their cell phone instead of paying attentions to the road? Is it all of the above? I'll never know, but as streets become wider, the distance to avoid being hit by a car increases. When you add intoxicants, speeding drivers, and cell phones, you have more opportunities for the media to report accidents. That, and an increase in auto insurance in that area. 

A Champion Tree

 I wrote about this tree in the past. I don't remember when, but while looking at some old photos, I was again amazed at the size. 

The tree has its own web page, which is an interesting read.

link: Columbus Live Oak It's in Columbus, Texas, which about an hour west of Houston. Columbus is on the Colorado River, which is the reason for the community. It was at a river crossing, and established in 1823. 

The county courthouse is an amazing structure, and if you continue down old Hwy 90 to the west, you'll see some of Texas few see. If you do go that way, I recommend getting off the highway at Seguin, and finding another route around San Antonio. Traffic in the metro area is as bad as Houston, if not worse. It may theoretically take longer, but if so, it's worth the time to see the rural areas around the city.

Foul Mood

I've been in a foul mood for the last few days. It's the culmination of many things, but more than anything else, it's the revealing of the amount of money outright stolen by the government. Someone being punished for their crimes is more than necessary at this time, and if justice is really served, prisons won't be large enough. I suggest tents in the desert as an alternative. Wasting more money on more government owned buildings is another thing that make my mood foul.

Straining The Mississippi Watershed

The torrential rains on the Mississippi River watershed will be something to watch in the near future. While the river is controlled from natural actions to change course over time to the Atchafalaya River, the control structures haven't been exposed to what is being described as "Biblical" flooding. Time will reveal how this all works out, but if the control structures fail, the changes downstream might reveal the folly of humans. 

Thinking About Alligators

 For some reason, I was thinking about alligators this morning, and remembered some times I spent in the marsh back in the early seventies. At that time, alligators were newly placed on the endangered species list, and even today, with their numbers rebounding, they're a protected species. 

Back then, I would go with my brother, and friends, to go fishing in the local marsh. Part of the marsh was impounded with levees, which was fresh water, and the majority of the marsh was a salt water marsh, with an entirely different fauna, except for the alligators. There were many alligators. They thrived in both habitats, and required wariness when in the marsh. While they were usually afraid of humans, large females could become aggressive when protecting their nest. If they happened to attack, and you were alone, they could hold you in a death spin until you drowned. After that, if you weren't found, they could feed on your deteriorating body. Rotting meat being much more tender, eating a person was an easier task. 

Maybe they were endangered, but considering what I saw, I have a suspicion their numbers were probably smaller than when they were originally counted, but never to the point of endangerment. Doing so allowed the species to grow in numbers, protecting the species allowed hunting permits (taxes for more public sector employees) and with government inclusion, opportunities for grants, with other slush funds for politicians. I may be wrong, but I might be right. I'll probably never know, but after watching the antics of government entities, I have a feeling I am probably right.

A New Battle with Poison Ivy

About two years ago, while at my sister-in-laws, I noticed some poison ivy in one of her planted beds. Closer inspection revealed a main trunk next to a pine tree thicker than my thumb. Looking up, I could see the runners were up to fifteen feet into the tree. I asked if she would mind if I eradicated the infestation. With her permission granted, I went home, gathered my supplies, and went to work. 

I cut the main trunk at the base, sprayed the leaves around the bed with glyphosate, and left the herbicide to work its magic. Over the next few months, I took care of any stray shoots, and keep an eye on the bed when I visit. So far, only a few stragglers will appear, and are sprayed when found. II haven't found any this season so far, which is a good sign. I did the same at my mothers house years ago after my wife had a terrible reaction to some in a bed she was clearing for the approaching sale of my mother's house. Neither of us had noticed the poison ivy, and while I'm usually not affected, my wife's strong reaction required a visit to the doctor. 

The day before yesterday, while at the back of the land, I noticed a few poison ivy leaves near the ground. Looking closer, I realized the entire area was filled with poison ivy, and as much as I wanted to spray, the wind was too high. So, today won't be a good day to spray either. Tomorrow will be the same, and it's not looking like it will be accomplished until next week, if not later. It will be a new battle, but I plan on winning. It's been years since I had a real bad dealing with poison ivy after clearing a right of way on a project. The painful itch was maddening, and only the hottest of water I could stand would relieve the itch. It took over a week for the areas on my arms to finally become clear, and the memory will remain forever. 

Dealing With Those on Their High Horse

I get tired of the condescending airs of too many people that have a duty to be honest, competent, and have an integrity to match their important positions. The media is one of the worst places to find these people. Supposed journalists, with their subverted education, have unrealistic views of anyone other than their peers, fail in their duty to factually describe their findings, have a disrespect for those that don't follow their narrative, or expose their shortcomings, and pontificate on opinions that are beyond their duty. 

Politicians are another. They ignore their constituents, lavish taxpayer gifts on their promoters, and fail to do the simplest of required tasks, such as balancing their budget. In their minds, we're supposed to defer to them, regardless of how feckless, dishonest, and crooked they are. 

Judges may be the worst. The law allows them drag their feet, place extreme financial burdens on the innocent, allow attorneys to make a mockery of the judicial system, ignore Constitutional mandates, and do so with the knowledge they are failing to provide everyone with the same rights. Simple legal proceedings require more money than many people have available, and the result is they're defeated before they ever have a chance. When you add the groups that subvert the judicial system with frivolous tort, and the judges don't throw them out of their courtroom, it's not hard to fathom how people become very wary of the legal system.

It appears some things are changing. Judges are being scrutinized, which is important. They have specific tasks and those wandering from their jobs should be taken to task for their errors. Legal relief shouldn't be only for the rich, or for those financed by groups with money provided by those that want to destroy the United States. That, and it shouldn't take years to solve many problems. 

The legacy media is faltering, which is a good sign. There needs to be integrity in news reporting, and a realization multiple sources of good information are more important than favorite news channels. There are good news sources, and they should be consulted instead of relying on the legacy media, or social media posts.

Politicians always have been a untrustworthy group. Finding the good ones is like digging through horse manure for grains of corn. As a group, they've proven they fail in the most important of tasks, and created more problems than they solve. I don't see much of a change, but know if you throw enough of them in prison for their criminal actions, the rest may get a clue.

 

A Tale of Two Bridges

 It's not actually two bridges. It had two different names over time, and it consolidated the traffic of two streets that hadn't crossed the interstate for decades, but some planners (planners/politicians/grifters) decided it was necessary, and threatened to kill a puppy if it wasn't built. (No, they didn't plan to kill a puppy, but probably threatened to elect a more terrible derelict to Texas Congress. That's probably worse). It won't be standing much longer. Demolition is soon to start.

The bridge is masterpiece of glut, unnecessary embellishment, and for those that I knew that built it, a thing of beauty and accomplishment. Formwork required panels that reflected stonework of a time past, and the lighting was of a past century. The safety rails took some fancy detailing in formwork to reflect bannisters of an expensive staircase. I was impressed with the work. 

 It is beautiful, but in reality, the amount of traffic it allows convenience never satisfied the cost. That, and when I first drove under the finished bridge, I wondered if the clearance would become a problem in the future. That, and glad my commute through that area didn't have to deal with the construction traffic due to the bridge.

The interstate is in the process of expansion. Two main travel lanes in each direction are not enough. They haven't been for years, but funding wasn't available. The bottleneck at two major exchanges requires much more pavement, and from what I'm seeing, flyovers will be required. The bridge that had the name of a local politician, after the name of the two streets it consolidated, is in the way. In April, it will close, and the traffic on the interstate will become a nightmare for those traveling to, and from, across Texas. Demolition of a bridge over a live interstate requires detours, detours require the walls of death, and the carnage will begin.

So, progress is on the way. It requires me to avoid that section of the local city if I decide to visit. I already avoid it as much as I can, but now have another very good reason to not visit. It's looking too much like parts of Houston, and the traffic is sometimes worse. 

In a few months, there will be a much different appearance of this area.

So, What Did They Do With The Money?

 A few local communities are having problems with their infrastructure. Roads are the usual problem. Traffic changes, traffic loads increase, and even some newer roads are showing signs of problems. Many I watched during construction. Since I have no access to testing reports, or watched them performed, there's no way I can say it's due to shoddy construction, but know enough to see where it probably happened. Laziness, outright fraud, and unscrupulous contractors can lead to "boiler-housed" test reports, and failures in the future. City crews do what they can, but do so at a pace that guarantees they probably are rejects from the private sector.

The problem that is found more in the news is the problems with sanitary sewers. Regardless of the millions spent in the eighties by grants for rehabilitation, and new systems, the sewer systems are failing. Why? There's too much groundwater infiltration from dilapidated pipes, overloaded systems, and a failure to upgrade capacities. This causes the sewers to surcharge in rain events, toilets don't flush, and some neighborhoods are filled with people calling their insurance agent to claim they need new carpet. Why is there so much infiltration? Cities don't spend the money on for what it was intended. They spend it on useless salaries, unwarranted benefits, ridiculous programs, and the necessary things are pushed to the back burner...until they break. Then it becomes a crises without funds for necessary upgrades.

I'm sure this is not just isolated locally. Cities, like all government entities, are filled with incompetent, selfish people that never intend to do anything but secure a salary and retire with a pension you can't find in the private sector. It is what it is, and I'm glad I moved away from a city decades ago. I like my toilets to drain, my water supply to be without repairs I can't do, and not having to deal with the bureaucrats that ignore telephone calls. As far as the roads, our county commissioner does what they can, but is a politician. That explains it all.

It's Worse, When You Think About It

 There were tens of thousands of Federal employees screwing the pooch for years, and many think they deserve their pay for not doing anything. When you add the agency that supposedly was supposed to keep the taxpayers in mind with union affairs was pissing off money for luxuries, you realize most have no integrity and should be given ten years of breaking big rock into little rocks. Will someone be prosecuted, made to pay large fines? Of course not. We're supposed to be more gentle in punishing reprobates, and federal judges are part of the subterfuge. A less polite society would be digging some holes.

What We Put Up With

Jet lag is considered unhealthy. Sleep problems happen immediately and the disruption of the circadian rhythm problems can last a long time. Daylight Saving is like jet-lag, except we're supposed to ignore the effects, soldier on, and put up with the insane, meandering whims of those that legislate, and obfuscate. 

*spit*   

The Walls of Death

Locally, the interstate is under major construction in more than one area. To accomplish this construction, detours are built, two lanes of traffic are still available, but barrier walls don't allow a shoulder and the walls of death are formed. Accidents are many, access to many areas is only one way from the opposite direction, and in some rural areas, the available emergency assistance is substantially less than in a city. 

There was a fatal motorcycle accident yesterday. A man from halfway across Texas was riding his Harley, decided to pass a semi on the right side, hit the barrier wall, and fell under the wheels of the trailer. Why he did this is beyond my comprehension, but I have a feeling impatience was a key factor.

It's almost a daily occurrence to have a major accident in these areas, and fatalities are few, but the mayhem is daily. One section has been under construction for the lion's share of a decade, and will probably be outdated at completion. Two new major interchanges just started in a local city, and are projected to last for many years. The walls of death will be placed soon, and the mayhem will commence. 

Autopen Illegalities

There are rumors Biden didn't have enough clarity to sign important documents. In any legal document I ever signed, a forged signature was considered fraud. If this is true (and I believe it is) many documents lost all legal authority. How this is handled will be something to see, but it's necessary to pursue. Those that failed to alert the nation to the inability of the President to perform his duties are guilty of sedition. They should be prosecuted, and the documents nullified. 

How can this be rectified? My solution is that every important document Biden "signed" with an autopen should be placed in front of him by legal witnesses, and  his actual signature used in an affidavit to ascertain. This includes legislation passed by Congress, any executive order, and any treaties. If he can't do this, then it isn't official, regardless of any testimony of close personal advisors. They are automatically suspect, and their testimony unacceptable.

The Economy in a Nutshell

 Since 2020, which is the year I retired, official assessments of the devaluation of the dollar are at somewhere around 25%. That means the value today in relation to the value then is around 75%. So what does that mean? If your neighbor was stealing 25% of you money over a four year period, and all legal efforts had no success, you would shoot them. 

Focusing on Smaller Problems - Update

When I ran my generator last week, it surged, which is not good, since a surging engine causes surging voltage. I removed the carburetor, cleaned it thoroughly, reinstalled it and checked the operation. I still have a surging generator. 

I did some research online about the problem. There are two possibilities I need to examine. One is the fuel tank valve filter. I haven't ever removed it, and there's the possibility it's partially clogged. If I can't remove the filter, I'll remove the valve, and either replace the valve, or remove the filter permanently. I'll install an in-line filter instead, which is probably the best solution. 

The other problem may be the fuel solenoid on the bottom of the fuel bowl. If it's weak, it might not be holding as needed, which will require replacing the solenoid, or the carburetor, if that's not a part that is replaceable. 

If neither of these solutions stop the surging, I'll go back to my head-scratching mode and continue my effort to not depend on a mechanic. I try to never let a small engine defeat me.  

So, the new carburetor was placed, and the engine still surges. There is no fuel restriction from the tank. In fact, I replaced the fuel line, and added an in-line filter. Since the engine doesn't have many hours, I doubt the governor is the problem. The only thing left, if that is a possible problem, is something I'm not familiar with, but after researching, can cause surging. 

There are two springs on the governor linkage. One is larger, and has most of the tension. There is a smaller spring, which I over pulled, and it's obvious it's not as taught as originally designed. My question (to anyone with knowledge, or has someone they know that does) can this cause surging. Of all the things, that's the only thing that's different.  

Maybe a Compromise is Necessary

I hear both sides of the argument about Daylight Saving Time. I like standard time. It fits my sleeping schedule better. Others like the time change to longer evenings. It allows more golf time, or being able to event outdoor sports events with children. Either way, the problem is not the time; it's the changing of time twice each year. I don't think that's healthy, and is a pain in the ass. So, maybe just spring it forward one half hour, leave it that way, and find something more relevant to discuss.  

Increasing the Air Volume

A few months ago, I wrote about working on sister-in-law's heater.  Earlier in the week, with a cool Spring day as an advantage. I tackled my air handler, which services the heater and air conditioner. 

Removing the blower was fairly easy, except for one very hard to reach sheet metal screw. Replacing it was much easier, since I had a better idea on how to get to that area. After removal, I brought it outside, turned it to where I could reach the blades, and went to work. 

Squirrel cage blowers are a fantastic way to move air. They are not fantastic when it's time to clean the blades. I used a small screwdriver to break the clinging, packed dust, removed what remained with an old toothbrush, and vacuumed everything else. After I was finished, and reinstalled it, I checked the operation. I was amazed at how much more air was being moved. That, and how more quick the unit cycled. 

I probably saved a few hundred bucks by doing it myself, but for those that can clean the blower themself, or have the money, I recommend doing so. It has to be more efficient, which translates into reduced costs, and lengthens the life of the system. The accumulated dust can cause the blower to become unbalanced and shorten the life of the bearing. Now is the time, before the heat is oppressive.

Why?

Why does the U.S. government give grants to any university, while millions of taxpayers would like an additional few bucks in their pocket every month instead of watching it pissed off by bureaucrats and politicians?

After Effects

I was thinking about my doctors, and realized my trust of the medical profession has fallen to what I consider an unacceptable level. I have good doctors, but with something they don't deal with, my apprehension about new doctors is high. The covid debacle is the reason for this distrust, and I wonder how the medical profession can redeem the faith of people. 

The same distrust is toward "scientists" that sold their soul to research that once would have been shown as bunk, and the scientists shamed for their actions. Many people lost their lives due to the "professional" opinions of "experts". That, and financial ruin due to these people almost hard to envision. With unscrupulous politicians, and ignorant people, added to the problem, it will take some harsh punishments for some involved for some to realize how terrible Covid became. The disease was nothing compared to the "cure". In my opinion, some of those involved are guilty of murder, and should be prosecuted for the crime; Fauci in particular. He is the same caliber as the worst the Nazis used, and a hanging is justified.

How About Today?

I think there are many like me that want to see someone facing punishment for their crimes while employed by the U.S. Government, or using tax dollars. Today is a good day to see a news report that the arrests have started. I don't know about you, but I have a feeling that won't happen.

No Deal

Zelensky burned his butt, and Ukraine will suffer the consequences. He lost today by showing his desperation. Any deal from this point on will not be in the favor of his country, and Europe will either cover his costs, let him flounder, or make the bigger mistake of causing problems with the United States. From my point of view, the grift is over, money laundering ended, and Ukraine just lost...again.

Probably Won't Reveal What People Want Revealed

Pam Bondi gave select reporters binders with information on Epstein. I'm sure there will be some revelations, but there won't be the "gotcha" information wanted by many. Why? If you were going to prosecute, releasing information of those facing prosecution will lead to a circus, civil suits, and a defense that will destroy any conviction. Those involved ( from what was gathered from the flight lists to Epstein's island), have resources, damning information on others, and prosecuting them will require evidence that can't be thrown out due to technicalities. It's a shame, but the opportunity to strike when the iron was hot is gone. 

Was there an intentional effort to keep powerful people from being prosecuted? That's a question that requires an answer. Avoiding the responsibility of stopping sex crimes involving minors is a crime that demands a severe punishment after conviction. This too will take time, since there are no convictions to use as evidence against those that covered for the crime. It's a mess, will take a long time to prosecute, and those involved may not even be in the United States to face justice. When you add the years that passed, how time removes details of events, and how attorneys can twist facts to their advantage, the justice required may never happen. Some of those involved may not want to be dragged through the legal process and forcing them to appear in court as traumatic as the criminal event.

Ghislaine Maxwell knows much of what went on. Supposedly, she's still in prison, and has a ton of civil suits against her. Will she ever tell? That could be dangerous, and being in prison isn't as safe as some may think. (Ask Epstein...of that's right, you can't) She'll probably go to her grave never exposing those that should be in prison, but maybe she will. I doubt it. 

Physic, Energy and Potatoes

I like potatoes. I like them cooked to where a small amount of salt is all needed for seasoning, and covered with butter, sour cream, chives, bacon and cheddar cheese. They're good, and I decided to write this post after reading on how potatoes are fattening. 

Potatoes have potential energy. We use the chemical energy as food, which is not only tasty, it offers some important vitamins and minerals. Eat a tiny amount, and there isn't enough energy to keep you alive. Eat too much potato, and you eventually accumulate fat you don't need. Otherwise, a potato isn't fattening; your appetite is fattening, and thinking you just need to avoid potatoes doesn't remove the fact eating potatoes has nothing to do with your weight gain. 

After thinking about this post, I started wondering just how much energy a potato has, if you could release it all at once. Would it just be small, bright light? Maybe a little more, such as a singed spot on a table? Or, would it take out the walls of a room, and scare the crap out of everyone within hearing distance? I made a half-hearted effort to find out, but became frustrated after seeing so many articles on how a potato can be used like a battery to light small light bulbs used for headlights on gnats. I guess I'll never know. 

Now That It Was Created, What Is To Be Done?

Through illegal elections, financial influence, and outright thievery, the U.S. has a ruling class. This class of people hold important government positions, weld their power with impunity, and stolen a tremendous amount of money from those that pay taxes. Now what do we do? Many have no wealth, except what they acquired through illegal stock trades, slush funds, and using regulations to improve their ability to acquire wealth. With that wealth came power, and with that power, they ignored laws, decency, and did so without any attempt at integrity. 

If those in the government were in organized crime, (I know, it is) their assets would be seized, and they would be charged for their crimes. They do this with drug dealers, bookies, and hired thugs. Whether this happens is to be seen, but the example must be set, and the criminals running the country need to face their prosecutions. 

Cleaning Up

Pelosi, and others, grifted money for San Francisco, which in a national perspective, is of no importance. Included are unneeded buildings and millions for a trust for a city park.  According to Democrats, it's retaliation. Maybe so, but regardless, the taxpayers don't need to be paying for things that have no purpose to the rest of the country in what has become a large outdoor toilet in California. The pendulum is swinging hard, and without mercy. I have no sympathy. In fact, I have no problem if it's retaliation. Pelosi through down the gauntlet, and now will find she can't escape the reaction.

Update Photos

I'm posting these photos with the hope that parents will show them to their children that spend a lot of time in the sun. Lighter skin has a higher chance of cancer, but the ionizing radiation of the sun can damage all types of skin. In the end, Mohs procedure is the lesser of procedures when dealing with skin cancer. If it metastasizes, the extra treatments include chemo and radiation therapy. If it's melanoma, the chances of survival can be really low.

 

Update

I had my Moh's surgery this morning. I gave us 2 -1/2 hours to reach what should be a 1-1/2 hour trip. After dealing with a parking lot, when there was a wreck on US 90, and having to turn around to seek another route, we reached our destination with only four minutes to spare. I asked the receptionist if the 8:00 am appointment was hard to fill, she replied "it is". I can see why. Dealing with Houston rush hour traffic on the major highways, the interchanges, and the ass-clowns that drive like its Daytona in their trucks with the loud pipes, I can see where that time slot is not preferable. Those types need to be required to have a shock collar on their neck, which is activated by anyone that has the crap scared out of them, when they drive like idiots. 

Anyway, the surgeon stated my melanoma was Phase 0. The cancer was caught at the earliest stage and hadn't progressed into the lower skin levels. That was extremely good news, and my observation of my skin now needs to involve mapping my skin, which I will pursue with my dermatologist. If he isn't as aggressive with this, I'll find another dermatologist. 

I'll post photos of the divot he carved in my neck after I remove the initial bandages, which will probably be sometime tomorrow. I want to see the stitches, and count them like I usually do. Tonight I'll continue capturing the sleep I missed last night. I didn't get but a couple of hours, and my nap this afternoon was not sufficient  to recover the lost sleep. I do have some pain medication, if needed, but so far, there isn't any; even with the numbness now gone.

One good thing is that my dermatologist locally will remove the stitches, which will remove the need to participate in the madness called "rush hour" in Houston. I wouldn't wish that on many people, but probably would reserve some of that agony on people I don't care for. 

I'm Tired of Waiting

When are they going to arrest one of the obvious traitors? That, and arresting those that obviously broke financial laws to make millions with insider trading. I don't care if they're still investigating. Make them wait that time out in jail, just like those that were arrested for being in the capitol January 6, 2021. Allow them no bond, since they have enough money to be considered a flight risk, and seize their assets. Fair is fair and I'm tired of waiting.

Deep Thoughts

I had my bi-annual appointment with my dermatologist a little over a week ago. As usual, there were some pre-cancers to be treated with liquid nitrogen, and with two spots of concern I showed my dermatologist, there were some biopsies. As an afterthought, and not of any concern of mine, I showed him a small mole on my neck that hadn't been there very long. He decided to go ahead and do a biopsy, and we decided my visits need to be every three months in the future. 

The day before yesterday, they called to inform me of the results. One of the areas was just an irritation from what was probably an ingrown hair. One, which was treated six months ago, and had reappeared turned out to be a squamous cell cancer (I figured it was) and another appointment was made to finish removing the cancer early next month. The mole result was a little of a gut punch. It's melanoma, which leads to an entire different approach. 

My Moh's surgeon doesn't handle melanoma. I never asked why, but when asked during a visit, she told me she doesn't do them. After a referral, I was contacted by a doctor's office in Houston for scheduling a surgery. That happens next Wednesday. 

So, to say I'm not a little freaked out is an understatement. My thoughts haven't been super positive; even with encouragement from my wife and family. We'll see how this all turns out, and what the future brings. I hope for the best, but other thoughts are creeping into my mind. Melanoma killed my mother three months after I was born. Of course, that was nearly seventy years ago, and treatments are far more advanced. Still, things may change rapidly, and my thoughts can shift into the darker range. 

Interesting and Necessary

According to this article, a federal judge following procedures must have a party post a bond before an injunction is awarded to cover costs if the plaintiff is wrong. Otherwise, if after all appeals the request for the injunction leads to economic damage to the defendant, and the plaintiff is wrong, the bond pays for the damages. If this bond is like most bonds, either the bond is furnished by the plaintiff in secured funds, or the plaintiff purchases the bond at at a price the bonding agent feels is a good price for the possible exposure, and the plaintiff pays an up-front fee for the bond. According to the article, this is rarely used, and the burden of costs goes directly to the defendant, or taxpayers, even if the injunction is overturned in appeal. We'll see how this is applied in the future, but it's definitely necessary to force activist judges to follow procedures and give pause to those so willing to use the justice system at the cost of others.

I Hope She's Busy

Pam Bondi is the new Attorney General.  I hope she's busy, because the obvious crimes are blatantly exposed, and the offenders need to be in jail until their trial. No bond. No interviews with the press, and their attorneys need the threat of imprisonment for even speaking their client's name. Regardless of all the hype, supposed efforts to correct the wrongs, and public determination, the possibility it's all a show is something to think about. Until strong actions are seen, it's nothing but political theater. 

Repairing Damage

With all the rot in D.C. being exposed, I'm wondering what the D.O.J. will finally do with all the bad actors involved with the illegal activities that occurred over decades. Both major political party leaders were involved, the crimes include up to capital crimes, and the Trump Administration has key people that were victims of some of these crimes. May justice be swift in response, and the attorneys representing these reprobates only hoping for a plea deal. There's a lot of damage that needs repairing, and people that need to face accepting years in prison.

Call Them What They Are

From looking at the news, ciphering what's reported, and reading between the lines, I can see many federal agencies are filled with thugs, parasites and derelicts. To make things worse, they give away taxpayer money at will for kickbacks and favors. When fired, many will take their grifting and swindling to the private sector. That's a problem and will make smart consumers very wary of products, and service, they purchase. Those in manufacturing will have to stay on top of their quality control.  

What Might Be Found?

From reading some reports, it appears many U.S. agencies have been automatically paying for things they shouldn't be paying for. How much? The examination is in its earlies stages but it will be a substantial amount. Included in these automatic payments are to groups that don't have the best intentions for the United States. Maybe we should demand our money back, and go get it if they don't do as asked. One thing is for sure: find all these payments, remove those necessary, and punish anyone that authorized the payments without vetting the recipient, or avoiding scrutiny with illegal methods. 

This Is How It Works

Jimmy Carter was President in the late seventies. They were terrible years for the economy, national security suffered, and the bureaucracy grew. Inflation reached double digits and the interest on borrowing followed the same path. People could get loans, but few wanted pay interest that was around 16% when it peaked. The U.S. learned a lesson, but unfortunately, after forty years, the lesson was forgotten, and we had to deal with another feckless Democrat President. In my opinion, this is a forty year cycle that will be repeated until the political parties follow the Constitution and demand everyone hired, serving, or on the bench do the same. 

I'll probably never see another President as bad as Carter, or Biden. Two time was two times too many.

Will They Court Martial Milley?

From what I've read, Milley is not insulated from a court martial by his pardon. So, to settle this matter, they need to proceed with trying him for what he was accused, or allow him to accept he is guilty, remove his pension, change his discharge to dishonorable, and let his legacy follow Arnold's. The crimes he has been accused of are serious; so serious the death penalty is a possible punishment. If he is innocent, then he can present his defense in a military trial. Until then, he should be treated as a criminal.

My Suggestion

I think Harris, Biden, and anyone else that facilitated allowing illegal aliens into the Texas, should be prosecuted for treason. The description of the crime fits their actions, any of the guilty party with pardons are not protected from state law, and the maximum sentence of 20 years should be the punishment for those convicted. When convicted, send them to one of the prison farms. Some years in the hot sun should bake out some of the evil.

The Ground is Saturated...

...and more rain is forecast for the middle of the week. We don't need it. I poured 4 inches out of the rain gauge this morning. Part of the yard looks like a lake, and I have a feeling part of the road will flood.  

Cats Playing with Mice

Fauci lost his security detail. Now, they have a subject that will likely trade all types of information for security. Of course, their might be those that don't want him secure, and would rather he disappear. We'll see who gets to him first, but I wouldn't want to be in his shoes.

What About Licenses?

 Of all those pardoned people with licenses, can they keep their licenses? After all, they agreed they are free of crimes of a degree that requires a pardon, and most states remove licenses for some crimes. I wonder how you can even protest having your license removed after being pardoned for a crime? This is uncharted territory, and those that have the power of licensing, also have the power to remove the license if a person is unqualified. I wonder how the bureaucrats will handle the will of those in charge that may have had enough, want to punish those that escaped punishment, and want to do what's right?

I see paybacks on the horizon, and there are many.

Let The Trials Begin

From reports I've read, there were some of the J6 prisoners abused while incarcerated. The reports stated physical, and psychological, torture from guards who are now not protected by a rogue administration. Some reports state prisoners are still being held, regardless of their pardon. If any of this is true (and why should I doubt it?) and the investigations expose those involved, there is no fury from citizens more terrible for those that tortured citizens simply because they wouldn't admit a crime, or do what their guards wanted. Those involved with the torture have now become pariahs, their futures filled with terrible moments, and for those that were not pardoned, prosecutions that will demand the most harsh of penalties. Those that can post bail will wish they hadn't. Their families will be affected, too. 

Pardons may protects those in the last administration that needed prosecuting from charges, but nothing can protect them from the public, or officials that turn their backs. May they suffer for their actions.

Do Pardons Cover This?

From what I've read, preemptive pardons remove the ability to prosecute for crimes before the date of the pardon. Otherwise, the individual pardoned is free from punishment for all their criminal activities to that point. What about criminal culpability for refusing to expose others involved with the crimes, or perjury for refusing to answer questions, or testifying? How about any monies acquired during the possible crimes committed during the time before the pardon? What is acceptable for the pardoned individual to keep? How about public pensions? Are constitutional protections removed from those pardoned because they accepted they are criminals?

This is a little mind boggling. Those accepting a preemptive pardon basically gave up the rights, face the possibility to be ruined by constant demands to testify, and any funds from profits from their ill-gotten monies are not protected from seizure. They've become a non-citizen, and what's to keep them from being deported? They accepted their fate, and their crimes in the past don't have to be proven. They're the worst of the worst, and any citizen that feels threatened by them can have a restraining order against them, refuse them any service, and demand they have no access to certain public facilities. 

I can see where those pardoned can now be the targets of prosecutors. Prosecutor have everything to gain from constant pressure for information, and judges can refuse relief from the court due to the fact the individual has accepted their guilt. They're now responsible to society to help prevent their crimes from happening again. If they won't cooperate, they're now involved with crimes not covered by their pardon.

A Stillness I May Never Experience Again

The snow was a thrill for the children today, which allowed their parents to allow their childhood fascination to reappear for an afternoon. Improvised sleds were pulled behind motorized vehicles, and snowballs were a constant reminder of watching your back. 

One great niece, when I noticed she was just sitting, replied with a quick "no" when I asked: "You don't like cold weather"? I ushered her to the fire pit, told her her Pa-Pa was not using his chair, and she sat to warm her hands. I'm thinking there may be more to her morose feeling than just the cold. She's the child of a couple that is going through some custody adjustments, and her mother is notorious for attempting to turn he daughter against her father that has possessive custody. A mediation is scheduled for Friday, and if my assessment of her mother is correct, she's been working hard to muddy the water with outright lies. Such things are hard on children at eight years of age. Someone with wisdom wouldn't subject their child to an attempt to get them to choose sides when they are unable to process the entire problem. I don't see that wisdom, and the petty, vicious actions of the past only make me wish her custody would end. 

We did have somewhat of a thaw late in the afternoon. This offered me an opportunity to sweep any snow left on the steps, which allowed the thin layer of water to dry. The guaranteed freeze near dark would make them treacherous for a trip down the steps. They dried before the temperature dropped below freezing. This will allow our little dog access to the spot where I removed snow in the yard, which is till deep in snow where I haven't shoveled it away. Accomplishing his business is tough when squatting puts his hind end in the piled snow. I had to carry him out in the yard for his first effort this morning, which left him somewhat panicky. He didn't quite know what to think of the snow, would run into it only to return again, and finally found a spot to complete his business. He's now an old pro. He doesn't dally like on pleasant mornings. 

I went to bed at 6:00 pm with the knowledge I'd awake in a few hours. I woke at 10:00 pm, looked at the temperature, and decided to I'd mostly stay awake the rest of tonight. It was 21 degrees at the time. In 2 hours, it fell to 17. We'll be near single digits by sunrise, and regardless of my efforts to prevent frozen pipes, I will still run some water off, and on, during the night to guarantee that water will be available. The well house is sufficiently warm, but I'm wary. I wouldn't be able to do anything but cat-nap anyway, so I'll be vigilant until it is above freezing tomorrow. Hopefully, all my preparations were successful.

Outside, it was a dead-still winter wonderland. The snow was still thick. The only sound to be heard was an occasional hoot of an owl, and the snow scintillated like diamonds in the light from a flashlight. The aroma of wood smoke was heavy, and the wind was calm,. The crunch of the snow was loud as I walked through the yard and followed some small tracks I assume were from a bird. They led me to where they must have flown away, since they ended abruptly. The sky was clear, Orion was overhead, and the Big Dipper was rising in the east. It wasn't as clear as I thought it would be. There was a haziness to the air, which I think is probably from the cold air reacting to the moisture available at sunset.

The next few days will bring freezing temperatures at night, but nights will soon be warmer than freezing again. Weather forecasters are calling for high rain chances this weekend. We won't need the rain. The melting snow will keep the ground saturated for days, and any rainfall will immediately fill the outfalls. 

Locally, the schools, and government offices, will be closed. Many businesses will do the same to prevent their employees from driving on what are definitely treacherous roads. The snow melted into a slush, which hadn't dried at dark. I'm sure there is black ice to be found, and bridges without sand are a skating rink.

Maybe a Record

It started snowing around midnight. Before that, there was some light sleet, which didn't stick, but was so light it didn't create ice, when the temperature dropped below freezing. I stayed up to about 2:00 am, and awoke at 5:00 am. The snow falling was heavy, and according to my rain gauge, somewhere around 3 inches of snow already fell. That's something that only happens a few times in a lifetime in this area. 

When I was about 5 years old, we had heavy snow like this. I don't remember playing in the snow, but photos showed I did, and the snow was piled in drifts up next to our house. Another snow happened again during my last year in high school, but it wasn't this heavy, although it was probably around 2 inches. 

The children will love this. If they stay in this area for the rest of their lives, they may get another opportunity like this, but if things stay the same, they may be adults when it happens again...if ever. 

So, I'm again reminded how I'm not prepared for snow. I have no snow shovel, so the steps were swept of the heavy snow, and the continuing light snow is keeping them dusted. My boots will stay by the door, after removing them when I enter. The mat will be damp, but sweeping off my boots should keep it from being soaked. 

I don't think my dog will like the change, and wonder if I'll have to pick him up, place him in the yard, and hope his need to take care of his business will overrule his effort to seek the warmth of the house. Bless his little heart. He won't have any idea what happened, and will probably not like this at all.

Local schools, and government offices, will be closed today, which is good. Those that can drive in snow is a rarity here, and even though there is no black ice on anything at this time, tomorrow morning will bring a multitude of wrecks due to the bridges freezing tonight after the snow that melts today wets the decks. Freeways will probably have sanded bridges, but the rural bridges will not have the same treatment. Those venturing out may find it was a mistake to try to go to work.

What Tomorrow May Bring

 Local forecasters are predicting the possibility of up to 4 inches of snow by Wednesday morning. Time will tell, but it's clear this morning and it looks like the temperature will bottom out at 22 degrees. We're supposed to reach around 40 degrees today, which may happen, but the low this morning is around 3 degrees lower than the forecast from yesterday, and we may not reach that temperature. Clouds will approach today, and if early, we might get colder, nastier conditions than forecast. Pipes are protected and the light is on in the well house.

As I looked around this morning, I observed a turkey that I've never seen before. It's a young male, and I have no idea which neighbor had an escapee, but if it's like the two peacocks that appeared last month, it will stay close and we'll have a new member of the local group of fowls that roam for food. They assimilate where there is the possibility of food, and I can't blame them for wanting to stay with freedom. 

Today is when the poo hits the fan. We'll see if the cold in D.C. keeps the protesting critters at bay, but I have a feeling some will make an effort to actually do the job they're being paid to perform. Regardless, if I was Trump, my speech would be short, I would make it in a secure area, and ignore the chattering from the peanut gallery. If he's true to his word, there will be Executive Orders appearing like flies at road-kill.

Cold Weather Breakfast

Just one more post for this morning.

I woke this morning about 5:00. Looking in the fridge, and thinking for a few moments, I had the urge to make sausage and milk gravy. Some might call it S.O.S., or biscuits and gravy, but it really doesn't matter. It's a good cold morning breakfast, which sticks to your ribs. There was enough to have more tomorrow...if it lasts that long.

Windfall For Those That Sell Shredding Machines

With the fleeing of those that will need to flee, I wonder if there are some people making some good money on selling shredding machines. Of course, they're supposed to preserve records, but if they don't exist, what is there to preserve? I may be wrong on thinking there is really big group of people in D.C. trying to cover up their subterfuge, but I don't think I am.

Many Things Could Happen

Old Joe will officially leave the day after tomorrow.  Some, like me, don't think he was ever there, but the legacy media sure thought he was. That, and his sycophants took full advantage of the tail light he placed on his backside. Now, he'll be gone, but what does his future hold?

- Write a book? Of course not. He'll get paid from the fiction of a ghost writer and probably screw the ghost writer out of their fee.

-  Delve into philanthropy? Nah. 

- Retire to Mainland China? I doubt it. 

- Try to sell influence? His supply is gone.

- Spend time with his grandchildren? Probably not the female grandchildren. Ask their parents why.

- Spend time asking for forgiveness from God? Maybe he can get the Pope to give him a free pass. 

- Spend his time travelling with his wife? That would make a fantastic reality show. 

- Take up painting? Hunter did, insured the paintings, and last I heard, had them insured before the fires. 

- Continue in politics? I won't go there.

Personally, I think with him out of office, the instructions for his Secret Service detail will be to not let him out of the house, cut off all his outside communications, and let Jill decide what he's supposedly said. His failure as President will be a legacy only appreciated by Jimmy Carter, who has now gone to the big peanut in the sky.

Visitors Last Week

Last week, we had temperatures hovering between just below freezing to the upper thirties. Cloudy, and some light rain, it was uncomfortable outside, but much better than around 100 miles to the north, where there was freezing precipitation. As I was watching the pond, I was amazed at the number of small birds flying just above the water and almost hovering over a shallow section. It appeared they were feeding; much like the purple martins in the summer. 

There were hundreds of the small birds, which made me go for my binoculars to observe them closer. That's when I spotted their color. Their backs were blue, their chests were white and they had a black mask at their eyes. I had never seen the birds before. A little research on the web led to discovering what they were: tree swallows. 

I found this picture on the internet on the iNaturalist page. Whoever took the photo caught the colors, which in the gray of winter days is brilliant against the dark backgrounds. 

The birds stayed for a few days in numbers, and a few are still hanging around. According to what I read, the species winters along the Gulf Coast, and the flocks can be large. The one I observed was, and brightened a day of miserable weather. I don't know what they were feeding on, but they spent hours over the same spot. Either they consumed all there was to consume, or they left for another spot to feed.

How Could It Have All Gone Wrong?

Let's see: Three unqualified important officials that only have the qualifications of being of the correct sexual orientation, slushing money allocated for infrastructure, draining important water sources to protect a fish that doesn't exist, and allowing dangerous dry brush to accumulate in places where it can't be controlled when ignited. Surely everyone can see this has nothing to do with the fires in Los Angeles. It has to be Mother Nature, or Trump. If you don't believe this, ask the legacy media and California officials. They'll straighten out your thinking. 

What May Be Coming

Los Angeles is a huge amount of the population that makes up the state of California. Their dislike of current events, a seething anger, and a demand for change may lead to a revolt that changes the state. It won't take much to start the revolt, but the outcome for those so willing to sacrifice their own citizens for unrealistic goals will be the worst. Some will escape the wrath of those injured, but those without the resources, and with no way to escape, may find their lives miserable for a long, long time. It couldn't happen to a nicer bunch of folks, and considering how much many lost, and will lose forever, I wouldn't want to be in their shoes. They will find they're alone, and safety a major concern. Time will tell how this works out, but for those that lost everything, their anger has no limits.

Clearing the Power Lines

We have a rural electrical co-op that furnishes our electricity. Since it's not owned by those wanting to please shareholders, keeping the right-of-ways clear is a priority. I'm guessing they keep about 10 feet on each side of the lines clear to the ground, and they grind the underbrush to right above the dirt. This allows the company access for maintenance, and keeps dangerous ground faults from tree limbs touching the cables during high winds. It's all good, and even though I live in a forested area, the service is better than when I lived in a rural area with few trees. That area was serviced by a huge electric company, and they gave a rodent's fanny about my concerns. 

From what I've been reading, a problem that might have caused the huge fires in the L.A. area was a lack of keeping the local grid cleared. Extra high winds, limbs touching the cables, and the sparks created more fires than could be handled. The result is what we see, and the utility company had its hands tied with regulations. Regardless of what was appropriate, it was prevented from an important job by government officials willing to sacrifice people for environmental concerns without merit.  

So, who do they sacrifice for the problem? My guess, the electric company will be found in fault and those most responsible will have no problem continuing their environmental madness. Hopefully I'm wrong, but I'm thinking I'm not. Those willing to rebuild will find their electricity will come from underground cables, the expensive alternate construction will be beyond the means of an average homeowner, and large tracts of land will be available for the rich and famous. 

Waiting for Payback

I don't know what Trump will do after taking office, but I'm waiting for payback to those involved with his harassment. It can't happen soon enough, and with some, I'd like to see them prosecuted as traitors. 

Commercials, Medications and Supplements

One thing about being sick is the extra time you have to watch tv and analyze commercials. After analysis, I've found you really can't believe anything you watch, must do some to research on what is advertised, and not fall for the hype. 

The current weight loss medications will help lose weight, but if you read the fine print they flash for a few seconds, they're only temporary, the real long term results require a change in lifestyle, and the possible side effects may be permanent. Also, they're expensive and may not be paid by insurance. Otherwise, pushing the plate away a little sooner will accomplish the same thing, and have long term results without the high price.

Many of the supplements have actors, or paid patients, to tell how wonderful their life has become, and swear by the product. The problem with all is the disclaimer required by the FDA that states the supplement is not approved, or recommended by the FDA. To make things worse for some, they've been fined for falsely claiming benefits from the product, and had to remove the claims from their commercials. When you add the extreme cost for some, research other options, and realize the hype, you find there are supplements less expensive, and none are usually needed with a healthy diet. To make matters worse for some, they authorize automatic payment from an account when taking advantage of advertised special deals. Stopping the automatic payment can be a problem and add costs to return unused products. The lack of peer-previews of tests make many suspicious of product claims, and should chase any possible consumer away from what can be nothing but junk science.

The amount of crap advertised is astounding. More astounding is the blind belief the claims are true. Most of it falls under the classification of "snake oil", and much of it is expensive. While even some advertisers have doctor testimonials, that doesn't automatically mean the doctors have any scientific backing for their claims, and many commercials have small print disclaimers that state those promoting the product are being paid, or are actors, which in my opinion, removes any credibility from their claims. They're being paid to peddle a product, and their greed may be more important than your health.

What Does Logic Dictate?

Logic can be cruel; especially when there are so many good things envisioned, but if you examine the current state of affairs, and look into the past, you realize how things will probably turn out. 

- None of the Clintons will be prosecuted. If they are, I'll be very surprised. 

- Epstein's records, if there are any, will never be revealed. There's too much money, too many willing to kill someone for a few thousand dollars, and too many powerful people involved. 

- Those convicted, or still in jail, for the January 6 staged event will find there isn't much help. Their lives are still ruined, few have that charm needed to wow audiences, and book deals will never happen. 

- The economy will chug along, inflation will never be tamed, and living on a fixed income will become increasingly more difficult. The up side is those most vulnerable will die the fastest. Their suffering will be limited. 

- The "deep state" will continue with their shenanigans. They have too much dirt on those in power and will never let them take away what they've achieved. They let those that allow their actions to stay in power, continue with growing their fortunes, and cover their butts. 

- Illegal aliens will continue to cost money. Regardless of the easiest way to get rid of them, the most expensive, most "compassionate" method will be chosen regardless of the harm it causes to U.S. citizens. 

There's more, but it's obvious to most folks. Those most needing to be removed from society will continue to flourish, morals will deteriorate, and the best solutions to solve the worst of problems will never be undertaken.  I know this is a cynical appraisement, but until there's something that shows this isn't the standard way these things happen, I'll hold to my opinion. 

We're About To Get Cold

 We call it cold, but for many it's nothing. Temperatures are forecast to dip into the mid twenties at night starting Sunday night, and lows for the next few days afterwards about the same. Highs should be in the forties, which means freezing temperatures will only last for a few hours. 

So far this year, we've only had two nights where the temperature just made it down to 32 degrees. Most night have been in the forties, fifties and sixties. Daytime highs have been in the fifties up to the low eighties. It's been a blessing since heating, and cooling, don't require much electricity, which keeps the bill down. 

So far, this has been a mild, although wet Winter. The ground is saturated, and the mostly dreary weather hasn't allowed much drying. A wet Spring may bring some flooding we don't need. Time will tell, and regardless, there isn't anything I can do about it.