Friday, December 29, 2017
Friday, December 22, 2017
Robot Spiders
Robot Spiders
UnAssociated Press
December 22, 2017
This video was recently obtained by the UnAssociated Press, and clearly shows that the Earth is being invaded by Robot Spiders from outer space. Some scientists claim that there is little danger at present, because the spiders seem to only eat AA batteries. If you see one of these monsters, simply pick it up and slide the on/off switch to the "off" position. It could save your life.
Thursday, December 21, 2017
Friday, December 15, 2017
Alexander Ramsey House
I went on the tour of the Alexander Ramsey House yesterday, and it was great. I would have posted photos if I could, but photography is not allowed inside the house.
http://www.mnhs.org/ramseyhouse
http://www.mnhs.org/ramseyhouse
Mr. Rogers Sweater
This morning I told my wife and son that Mr. Rogers' Sweater is at the Minnesota History Museum for the 1968 exhibit (opening Dec. 23). My 5-year-old son said, "What? The Packers???"
Sprint Still Sucks!
If you read my blog last month, I had a lengthy issue involving my Sprint Phone. Basically they changed my plan without my consent and started charging me more. After the lengthy and frustrating process to put everything back the way it was, it happened all over again yesterday. Sprint, you suck!
Update: And yet again, after another month went by Sprint "lost" my MERSC discount and so the price went up again and I have to reapply. Are all phone companies so crooked? The reviews by the public say, "yes."
Update: And yet again, after another month went by Sprint "lost" my MERSC discount and so the price went up again and I have to reapply. Are all phone companies so crooked? The reviews by the public say, "yes."
Friday, December 08, 2017
Due Process
While it may be good to expose abuses and "call out" those responsible, we should never forget that it is "Due Process" that is supposed to be the foundation of our legal system. That means allegations should be substantiated prior to passing judgment.
Thursday, December 07, 2017
Tuesday, December 05, 2017
Monday, December 04, 2017
Santa Accused of Sexual Misconduct
Santa Accused of Sexual Misconduct
UnAssociated Press
December 4, 2017
Several women who wish to remain anonymous have recently come forward (though not public) to accuse Santa Clause of inappropriate sexual behavior. The allegations include coming down chimneys while they were asleep and sneaking around inside of their houses. There has also been allegations that he touched some women inappropriately during the taking of photos.
Though the jolly old elf has denied these allegation and though there is no substantial proof, Santa has been fired and Christmas will be cancelled and replaced with a new holiday yet to be named.
Friday, December 01, 2017
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Middle Politics and Anger
With political views that do not follow any party lines, I can at times, get people upset with me who are on the far right (conservative) or far left (liberal) end of the spectrum in equal numbers. What I have noticed (though maybe I know more liberals than conservatives), is that liberal people seem to get much angrier over even minute disagreements than conservatives do. I have wondered about that and I might have an answer as to why this happens. It is my opinion that liberal minded issues generally have little hard science or data supporting them, and rely primarily on emotion. Any discussion (or disagreement) should be a process of understanding and using evidence to support your opinion. If there is no actual science, the person using conjecture and emotion is likely to get frustrated and angry. Whether they have science backing them or not, a conservative can often point to the Bible and say, "Look, it's right here. God wrote it."
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Saturday, November 25, 2017
How Great Societies Fail
Even though I'm involved with an organization that has the mission to preserve history, that mandate gets kind of blurry when politics are involved. What I mean is, that history seems to reflect the attitudes that are force-fed to the population through the media. This “free media” being the same one that was forced to shutdown a breaking story 14 years ago when I worked for the county and an individual placed into a position to help vulnerable people was arrested and the (political) policies were shown extremely poorly as a result.
History, is often a partial truth. Our “politically correct” society has no stomach for the entirety of truth—as it does not fulfill the “popular” misconceptions that we are all supposed to believe. Yet, most people are fine perpetuating these partial truths for the sake of looking good.
One other historical fact that is conveniently forgotten as “we” show how accepting we are of all of the lifestyles and hybridized family units, is that most “great societies” throughout history, begin to fall apart from the inside rather than from outside forces.
As “thug culture” becomes mainstream, and when “we” are asked… no TOLD that we must be accepting of other factions of society, or we are racist, homophobic or a litany of other social horrors, the blindness of what this does to society becomes more complete and the infighting and disintegration becomes more real.
While I do not believe in barring any individual from entering a business based on race, sex or like reasons, it seems that someone whose butt is showing because they are wearing pants more suitable to a prison environment may be legitimately asked to leave. But the liberal opponents will not agree with this. In the process, they will use any reasoning to push their agenda; whether truthful or not.
Once while two individuals were discussing the need to accept homosexual marriage in society, playing the “devils advocate” I asked if maybe it should also include “a person marrying a cow” in order to be completely inclusive. Though both were assumably “straight men,” they were immediately incensed by this idea—which served to prove my point—that there is always a “line drawn” for every issue; and each of us has to decide how far is right and how far is wrong. There are always people who want to push that line one way or the other and society must come to a consensus as to what is acceptable and what is not. Someone may say that their religion condones dog fighting. Some religions won't allow medical intervention for their children who may die without it. Throughout history, the consensus surrounding various issues has and is changing. What constitutes freedom and what is abuse?
Pushed too far to the right or to the left, this can leave disastrous consequences. But historically, all the great societies tumble from within as they try to include “everyone,” no matter what they represent. Of course, there are also unacceptable issues that “explode” when they are finally brought out in the open—such as the harassment claims now piling up against Hollywood actors and politicians. Eventually, the hysteria creates a “guilty until proven innocent” reaction and it becomes impossible to know who to believe anymore.
But most people are ready to “attack” just the same—for fear that someone may decide to point the finger at them if they don’t “prove” how justice minded they are.
Meanwhile, the society that was once great and revered as the “Home of the Free,” is now touted as the home of racists and bigots and when the flag is brought out, the “hero” is the guy who “takes a knee” instead of the soldier in uniform who is saluting. And I find that unfortunate.
—KJC
History, is often a partial truth. Our “politically correct” society has no stomach for the entirety of truth—as it does not fulfill the “popular” misconceptions that we are all supposed to believe. Yet, most people are fine perpetuating these partial truths for the sake of looking good.
One other historical fact that is conveniently forgotten as “we” show how accepting we are of all of the lifestyles and hybridized family units, is that most “great societies” throughout history, begin to fall apart from the inside rather than from outside forces.
As “thug culture” becomes mainstream, and when “we” are asked… no TOLD that we must be accepting of other factions of society, or we are racist, homophobic or a litany of other social horrors, the blindness of what this does to society becomes more complete and the infighting and disintegration becomes more real.
While I do not believe in barring any individual from entering a business based on race, sex or like reasons, it seems that someone whose butt is showing because they are wearing pants more suitable to a prison environment may be legitimately asked to leave. But the liberal opponents will not agree with this. In the process, they will use any reasoning to push their agenda; whether truthful or not.
Once while two individuals were discussing the need to accept homosexual marriage in society, playing the “devils advocate” I asked if maybe it should also include “a person marrying a cow” in order to be completely inclusive. Though both were assumably “straight men,” they were immediately incensed by this idea—which served to prove my point—that there is always a “line drawn” for every issue; and each of us has to decide how far is right and how far is wrong. There are always people who want to push that line one way or the other and society must come to a consensus as to what is acceptable and what is not. Someone may say that their religion condones dog fighting. Some religions won't allow medical intervention for their children who may die without it. Throughout history, the consensus surrounding various issues has and is changing. What constitutes freedom and what is abuse?
Pushed too far to the right or to the left, this can leave disastrous consequences. But historically, all the great societies tumble from within as they try to include “everyone,” no matter what they represent. Of course, there are also unacceptable issues that “explode” when they are finally brought out in the open—such as the harassment claims now piling up against Hollywood actors and politicians. Eventually, the hysteria creates a “guilty until proven innocent” reaction and it becomes impossible to know who to believe anymore.
But most people are ready to “attack” just the same—for fear that someone may decide to point the finger at them if they don’t “prove” how justice minded they are.
Meanwhile, the society that was once great and revered as the “Home of the Free,” is now touted as the home of racists and bigots and when the flag is brought out, the “hero” is the guy who “takes a knee” instead of the soldier in uniform who is saluting. And I find that unfortunate.
—KJC
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Today
I have to think that God has made better decisions as to where my life should go than I would have alone. In other words, often the disappointments evolve into something great.
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Sticky Keyboard?
After working in a school, I learned a trick that I have since used many times. If you have a sticky (wired) computer keyboard, you can usually fix it by running it under warm water and then drying it (by letting it sit) for a day or two. Nothing else I can think of in the world of technology can handle a "bath," but so far my luck with "unsticking" keyboards is nearly 100%.
Monday, November 20, 2017
Being Told You're Special
While it might sound nice to be told that you are “special,” it is often a curse for someone inexperienced and impressionable. That is if the implication is that because you are special, you don’t need to “try” to be great.
Whether the person is a favored child, or part of a protected group, if you are given a line of entitlement, it is almost always a curse. Often, it is the person who is told early on that life is not fair; so you must try harder than most people—who will ultimately be better off.
Nothing is so sad as someone who gives up because they believe that they are already at the top and cannot excel any farther. Too often that person is doomed to living off the welfare of others' work and being unfulfilled.
Those who are showing their “higher morality” by perpetuating such thinking are as guilty as those who allow themselves to fail because of it.
Whether the person is a favored child, or part of a protected group, if you are given a line of entitlement, it is almost always a curse. Often, it is the person who is told early on that life is not fair; so you must try harder than most people—who will ultimately be better off.
Nothing is so sad as someone who gives up because they believe that they are already at the top and cannot excel any farther. Too often that person is doomed to living off the welfare of others' work and being unfulfilled.
Those who are showing their “higher morality” by perpetuating such thinking are as guilty as those who allow themselves to fail because of it.
Friday, November 17, 2017
Trifles
And while all the people were yelling about their trifles, the (only)-overweight, underachiever from across the 38th parallel was plotting to incinerate large portions of the world and the "leader" of the free-world was busy tweeting petty hatreds while balancing precariously on top of his oversized wallet.
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Sexual Misconduct
Sexual Misconduct
UnAssociated Press
November 16, 2017
BREAKING NEWS!
EVERYONE has just been accused of sexual misconduct! We apologize.
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
When SPRINT Said I Changed My Plan
I understand that I'm a "dinosaur" because (even though I am employed in Information Technology) I don't succumb to every new (and not so new) technological trend. My wife and I have cell phones and I get a good price on my plan because I've had it for a long time and we don't have any extras. Our phones are just phones. They are not portable computers that have voice/calling as one of the apps. So when Sprint emailed me that I had changed my plan a couple of weeks ago, I immediately called customer service to find out what was going on. The people at customer service asked for verification of who I was by a code word established years ago. I gave the person the word and she was unable to "authenticate it." Though I was calling on the phone in question about a change that had obviously been made, I was forced to go to a Sprint store. At the store, I was able to use my ID to establish a PIN and to find out that my plan had been changed to Unlimited Talk and Text. My concern was if the price had also changed and I was told it was "basically the same." Later, armed with my new PIN I went online and learned that my "code word" to "authenticate" my identity had been hopelessly misspelled by another of the customer service personnel.
So in the meantime, I began to use the text feature which I had previously had turned off when it was costing 10 cents per text. Now that I had Unlimited Talk and Text, why not use it right? So after a time I decided to use my new PIN and check on my account to make sure the cost had remained "basically the same" for the "Unlimited Talk and Text" plan that I had not authorized the change for. But the cost had changed! So I contacted Sprint and found that the new plan "was basically the same," except that text messages were costing 20 cents apiece. I was, of course, not at all pleased by being misinformed and duped into paying more. So I made them refund the extra charges for texting, turn off the texting feature and "basically" put things back to where they were before Sprint said "I had changed my plan."
So I'm back to being a "dinosaur" and annoying friends and family who want to text message me. Along the way my opinion of phone companies remains the same as well. They are all crooked.
So in the meantime, I began to use the text feature which I had previously had turned off when it was costing 10 cents per text. Now that I had Unlimited Talk and Text, why not use it right? So after a time I decided to use my new PIN and check on my account to make sure the cost had remained "basically the same" for the "Unlimited Talk and Text" plan that I had not authorized the change for. But the cost had changed! So I contacted Sprint and found that the new plan "was basically the same," except that text messages were costing 20 cents apiece. I was, of course, not at all pleased by being misinformed and duped into paying more. So I made them refund the extra charges for texting, turn off the texting feature and "basically" put things back to where they were before Sprint said "I had changed my plan."
So I'm back to being a "dinosaur" and annoying friends and family who want to text message me. Along the way my opinion of phone companies remains the same as well. They are all crooked.
Monday, November 13, 2017
Back In Wilkie
It was exciting to get back into the Wilkie Unit on Friday. It had been awhile and it had changed in many ways and yet it was still the same. I immediately found the remnants of an owl off the edge of the trail. Then I saw a lot of Bald Eagles and even more swans over Blue Lake. The river had geese and Mergansers and I found the large tracks of the hind foot of a beaver in the dried mud. When I was on the trail beneath the highway bridge, it should have been easy but the trail was washed out and I had to leap across. I'm getting kind of old for that but I made it. On the way out I met a hunter searching for the blood trail of the deer he hit almost four hours earlier. My 2-hour hike in the windy, 22 degrees (F) was exhilarating to say the least. I wish I had more opportunities to enjoy the places I used to frequent almost daily.
 |
| Owl flight feathers have soft edges for silence. |
 |
| 2 Bald Eagles |
 |
| Eagles above swans |
 |
| Swans |
 |
| Flood Remnants |
 |
| Minnesota River |
 |
| Cottonwoods get hollow |
 |
| My favorite terrain |
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| I remember you. |
 |
| Too cold for the beach. |
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| Beaver |
 |
| Texture |
Veterans Day
When Veterans Day is prefaced by a quick, methodical and somewhat impersonal military funeral ceremony, it drives home the reality of what it all means; and also what it doesn't mean.
Tuesday, November 07, 2017
Monday, November 06, 2017
Dear John
Dear John,
A long time ago, we were best friends. I met you in seventh grade on the football field. When I was 24, it was you who accompanied me on the premier adventure of my life—when we flew to Alaska and hired a bush pilot to drop us off on Admiralty Island for most of a week. We drank a lot of beers together and every Thursday was taco night.
Later, we drifted apart. I left the bar stool and life changed. We began to socialize in different circles. We lost touch.
Yesterday I heard that you had died. I tried in vain to find an obituary. Your landline is disconnected. So, I have to believe you have left the Earth just as sure as we felt like we had left the planet when we arrived in Alaska in a storm with all of those brown bears roaming around.
I’m sorry we didn’t get a chance to say goodbye.
Take Care Old Friend,
Kevin
A long time ago, we were best friends. I met you in seventh grade on the football field. When I was 24, it was you who accompanied me on the premier adventure of my life—when we flew to Alaska and hired a bush pilot to drop us off on Admiralty Island for most of a week. We drank a lot of beers together and every Thursday was taco night.
Later, we drifted apart. I left the bar stool and life changed. We began to socialize in different circles. We lost touch.
Yesterday I heard that you had died. I tried in vain to find an obituary. Your landline is disconnected. So, I have to believe you have left the Earth just as sure as we felt like we had left the planet when we arrived in Alaska in a storm with all of those brown bears roaming around.
I’m sorry we didn’t get a chance to say goodbye.
Take Care Old Friend,
Kevin
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Monday, October 30, 2017
Life and Death
"Without Life, there would be no Death. Without Death, Life would have no meaning."
-Kevin J. Curtis 1982
Friday, October 27, 2017
The Middle. The Center.
When Liberals call you a Conservative, and Conservatives call you a Liberal, what do you suppose that means?
Why Do Some Lives Matter More?
As we move toward another weekend, I've been reflecting on the shooting deaths of two black men in St. Paul last weekend. Why didn't these murders spark the outrage and protests that occur when a black man is shot by police?
http://www.startribune.com/17-people-shot-two-fatally-in-minneapolis-and-st-paul-since-last-week/452630183/
The answer appears to be political. There is nothing to be gained by protesting black against black violence; or is there? Why should only a few shootings be politicized? Why do some lives seem to matter more?
What needs to be asked, is why people are out in the world shooting guns at one another? What is the root cause? Blaming the issues on police is, pardon the pun, a "cop out."
If need be, compare successful individuals within any demographic with those who are caught shooting guns, committing crime and murdering people. What is the difference between the two groups? Is it influenced by economics? Is it absentee fathers? Is it a glorification of street culture? Is it a lack of commitment to education? Is it a broken family structure? I'm just brainstorming here.
But it seems that if "we" as a society decide to blame the police for these social issues when we employee the police to "keep the peace," we are really far off the mark to ever finding a solution to the truth of the problem.
-KJC
http://kstp.com/news/st-paul-police-identify-weekend-shooting-victims/4644139/?cat=12196
http://www.startribune.com/17-people-shot-two-fatally-in-minneapolis-and-st-paul-since-last-week/452630183/
The answer appears to be political. There is nothing to be gained by protesting black against black violence; or is there? Why should only a few shootings be politicized? Why do some lives seem to matter more?
What needs to be asked, is why people are out in the world shooting guns at one another? What is the root cause? Blaming the issues on police is, pardon the pun, a "cop out."
If need be, compare successful individuals within any demographic with those who are caught shooting guns, committing crime and murdering people. What is the difference between the two groups? Is it influenced by economics? Is it absentee fathers? Is it a glorification of street culture? Is it a lack of commitment to education? Is it a broken family structure? I'm just brainstorming here.
But it seems that if "we" as a society decide to blame the police for these social issues when we employee the police to "keep the peace," we are really far off the mark to ever finding a solution to the truth of the problem.
-KJC
http://kstp.com/news/st-paul-police-identify-weekend-shooting-victims/4644139/?cat=12196
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
Trump Schism Destroying Republican party
The Republican Party has a serious problem. It is called, Donald Trump. Many people, including some leading Republicans, are simply unable to pretend that Trump is an effective leader; as opposed to a spoiled, immature, rich brat like his Tweets have so effectively demonstrated. Yet the party faithful have given the ultimatum that if you are a Republican, you must support Trump or "get out." Some are choosing to leave as the only alternative that is logical and intelligent. Others will "follow the emperor; even though he has no clothes."
Carrots
The carrot crop was good. It was possibly the only thing that the deer didn't eat on. It's good that deer don't have shovels...
Friday, October 20, 2017
Thursday, October 19, 2017
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Easy Way to Cook Beets
Friday, October 13, 2017
Kids & Germs
When I see my otherwise intelligent and happy child touch every surface around him as he navigates a public area; and then touch his face or eat with his hands, it is no mystery why children come down with colds and transmittable illness so easily. And while he will whine about his nose or his throat and act miserable, and while I can so easily teach him almost everything else, including hand washing, it is virtually impossible to make him understand that touching everything and then touching his face or eating with his hands is going to significantly increase the likelihood of his getting sick. I think that touching things is hardwired as a part of learning—but it really is hard for a parent to helplessly see his kid "playing Russian roulette" with germs and viruses.
Monday, October 09, 2017
Wednesday, October 04, 2017
Everyone Needs 10 to 46 Assault Rifles
Everyone Needs 10 to 46 Assault Rifles
UnAssociated Press
October 4, 2017
If the tragic shooting deaths of 59 Americans (and hundreds more wounded) in Las Vegas shows us anything, it is that more guns, and particularly more assault rifles are desperately needed in the United States of America. No one can be truly safe, until everyone in America is heavily armed and toting an assault rife. Every American home should have 10 to 46 assault rifles loaded, and at the ready.
While democrats are calling for stricter gun laws, Republicans are saying that reducing the number of guns will not stop anyone from being shot as long as there are people running around with guns.
"The answer is more guns," said an NRA spokesman. "Until we can get at least one assault rifle into the hands of every man, woman and child in the United States, no one will be safe! Only a madman would be unable to see the logic in (everyone) walking around with numerous high capacity weapons!
Indeed, it seems that the entire answer to freedom and safety lies with everyone in the USA being heavily armed at all times.
Monday, October 02, 2017
NFL Protest: Locked Arms
OK I have to admit that I don't find the "locking arms" thing during the national anthem to be particularly disrespectful. I still don't like the "taking a knee" or holding up a fist. It seems the locking arms players were still being respectful. Of course, one could argue that to take a knee, a person may be showing subordination--such as how one might greet royalty. I guess holding up a fist could somehow show support for a strong nation as well. Maybe the players should wear tutus and dance if they want to make their point.
Thursday, September 28, 2017
NFL Protest: A Better Way
If the NFL players would really like to make a positive difference in society, they could start by reducing the number of babies that they are "fathering" that they have no intention of being "dads" too. Because becoming a father to a lot of children without taking responsibility for teaching them, making sure they do good in school, making sure they don't join gangs, or do drugs, or carry guns is irresponsible. It is also irresponsible to blame police for a problem that is largely the result of children growing up without good role models and learning how to be successful and responsible. A DAD invests time and effort in his children. A DAD cries sometimes because his kid is sick and he is up late at night with him/her. A DAD hugs his kids and tells them he loves them. It might be easier to blame the police and the country and everyone else rather than to take responsibility for your own actions, but in the end it solves nothing.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Are All Parents Mean? Are All Cops Bad?
Are all parents mean? No of course not. Are all police killers? No of course not. Are all non-white people innocent and blameless because they are non-white? No of course not.
While I certainly don't agree with racial discrimination, I find it troubling that race is being used in our country to promote a social battle. Instead of focusing on how far "we've" come as a society, we are dwelling on real and/or perceived injustices. Some people might think parents are "mean" because they enforce necessary rules for their children's own good. On occasion, some parents might actually be mean; but hopefully there are far fewer of these than the "nice" parents.
There can also be "bad" cops. Hopefully, there are far more "good" cops than bad ones.
For someone, say someone who has already decided that children are always right because they are children and they never have to learn to be responsible for their own actions, they would always blame the parents. Furthermore, whether true or not, they would always accept the children's argument as truth. Does this sound like a good reality?
Such a one-sided viewpoint—regardless of if it is to the (political) far left or the far right is dangerous. In my opinion, people (on the far left) who cannot see through the lies that hold all non-white people blameless and label all police officers as "the problem," are exhibiting their own brand of backhanded racism. The results will likely be out-of-control individuals who have learned to lie to get their way rather than responsible people who contribute to society. Even more unfortunate, is that those on the far right will likely rally their allies and vote right-wing, racist, elitist, short-sighted people into political power (see 2016 Presidential Election, USA).
While I certainly don't agree with racial discrimination, I find it troubling that race is being used in our country to promote a social battle. Instead of focusing on how far "we've" come as a society, we are dwelling on real and/or perceived injustices. Some people might think parents are "mean" because they enforce necessary rules for their children's own good. On occasion, some parents might actually be mean; but hopefully there are far fewer of these than the "nice" parents.
There can also be "bad" cops. Hopefully, there are far more "good" cops than bad ones.
For someone, say someone who has already decided that children are always right because they are children and they never have to learn to be responsible for their own actions, they would always blame the parents. Furthermore, whether true or not, they would always accept the children's argument as truth. Does this sound like a good reality?
Such a one-sided viewpoint—regardless of if it is to the (political) far left or the far right is dangerous. In my opinion, people (on the far left) who cannot see through the lies that hold all non-white people blameless and label all police officers as "the problem," are exhibiting their own brand of backhanded racism. The results will likely be out-of-control individuals who have learned to lie to get their way rather than responsible people who contribute to society. Even more unfortunate, is that those on the far right will likely rally their allies and vote right-wing, racist, elitist, short-sighted people into political power (see 2016 Presidential Election, USA).
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
CuTRis Takes a Knee at NFL
As a protest, I will now stop watching any football game (or sporting event) if the players "take a knee" or otherwise behave disrespectfully toward the country that has enabled them to become millionaires by playing a game. This is my right as a free American citizen. This has nothing to do with supporting Trump. He has lost my support already. Now it's time to see if professional sports can do without me too.
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Aldi Has Low Prices and Poor Customer Service
I'm a fan of Aldi prices, but recently the customer service (minimal to begin with) has taken a serious downturn (at lease at one St. Paul location). The issue has occurred 3 of the last 4 times I've shopped there. The price signs are different than the price at the register. For whatever reason, it appears to be beyond the abilities of the staff to remedy this and at least one manager likes to make it seem like it is my fault!
So yesterday I received a phone call from an Aldi customer service representative who told me that they have a disclaimer on their website and flyers stating that they can change the prices at any time without notice. I told him that it is illegal to "bait and switch" and he continued to defend their unethical ways. That was when I decided to end the call.
If you choose to shop at Aldi, make sure to review your receipt and make them refund any overcharges! I know it is difficult to get a refund when customers are lined up but they should be held accountable.
UPDATE: Last week after I reported this latest encounter with the customer service rep, a much nicer one called to tell me this was unacceptable and the regional manger would be contacting me very soon. Very soon came two days later, when the regional manger made the call that she didn't sound very enthusiastic about. Regardless, that brings us to my last visit to this Aldi. Here is my newest customer service feedback to Aldi corporate.
RE: ALDI - Case ID # 750651
That makes 5 out of 6 times I've been overcharged! After the regional manager called me and I was told price signs would become a priority, I was overcharged yet again! I was reimbursed when I brought it to their attention; but don't you think at the very least this is a very embarrassing statistic?
It was hot so I decided to buy some ice cream bars. They were clearly marked $1.99 in the freezer and clearly came up $2.49 at the register.
So ask yourself why now? This didn't happen a year ago. Why is it beyond fixing now?
So yesterday I received a phone call from an Aldi customer service representative who told me that they have a disclaimer on their website and flyers stating that they can change the prices at any time without notice. I told him that it is illegal to "bait and switch" and he continued to defend their unethical ways. That was when I decided to end the call.
If you choose to shop at Aldi, make sure to review your receipt and make them refund any overcharges! I know it is difficult to get a refund when customers are lined up but they should be held accountable.
UPDATE: Last week after I reported this latest encounter with the customer service rep, a much nicer one called to tell me this was unacceptable and the regional manger would be contacting me very soon. Very soon came two days later, when the regional manger made the call that she didn't sound very enthusiastic about. Regardless, that brings us to my last visit to this Aldi. Here is my newest customer service feedback to Aldi corporate.
RE: ALDI - Case ID # 750651
That makes 5 out of 6 times I've been overcharged! After the regional manager called me and I was told price signs would become a priority, I was overcharged yet again! I was reimbursed when I brought it to their attention; but don't you think at the very least this is a very embarrassing statistic?
It was hot so I decided to buy some ice cream bars. They were clearly marked $1.99 in the freezer and clearly came up $2.49 at the register.
So ask yourself why now? This didn't happen a year ago. Why is it beyond fixing now?
Friday, September 15, 2017
Likely New North Korean Leader
Likely New North Korean Leader
Unassociated Press
September 15, 2017
Since North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Jong-un, keeps on firing missiles in a dangerous disregard for life and diplomacy, it is possible that he, or North Korea could be destroyed if the threat continues. This brings up the question that if Kim Jong-un was killed, who would succeed him as supreme leader of North Korea? Since the previous ruler was Kim Jong-il and before that Kim Il-sung, the likely successor is widely thought to be Same-dang Kim.
Thursday, September 14, 2017
The Best Thing
The single best thing you can do for the world is to spend time with your children and teach them how to be respectful and successful.
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
Witness to Shameful Comments to Police
Yesterday afternoon I found myself waiting in my car, at an intersection in downtown St. Paul (MN) while a group of police officers helped direct traffic so that a large group of people (it looked like students and teachers) were able to safely leave the Excel Energy Center. In the three or four minutes that I waited, the officers very professionally did their jobs while taking abuse from a number of people who drove past in vehicles and at least one who walked past. Every single person who I saw, who was swearing at the police officers and being openly and loudly disrespectful, was an African-American. At least one of the cars with people exhibiting this outrageously disrespectful behavior, had children in the car to witness it. So that left me with a number of questions for these individuals.
1. Who taught you that this behavior is acceptable?
2. Do you believe that your disrespectful behavior is helpful to the perception that police are unfair to black people (i.e. Black Lives Matter)?
3. Is there a possibility that your behavior demonstrates (to police and bystanders/witnesses) that you are in the wrong rather than the police?
4. Have the children in the car who witnessed the adults in the (same) car showing disrespect to the police officers, now been shown (or taught) a behavior that could ultimately put them in danger at some future time during some potential encounter with law-enforcement?
5. How is it that adults, can act in such an immature fashion? How can they not know how to properly act?
6. Does the possibility exist that the behavior I witnessed shows a systemic problem within a particular demographic?
7. Are there self-defeating behaviors—including never accepting responsibility for one's own actions, that are fueling the hatred and unrest to the detriment of not only those present now, but also future generations?
8. Is that what any of us really wants???
9. Who would you call for help if all of the police officers left law-enforcement?
10. Do you honestly think we would be safer in a world with no law and order?
While it is good that the police are being held to a higher standard, why should that not also include the rest of society? Who benefits if cops have to act better but the rest of the population is allowed to misbehave?
BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD.
—KJC
1. Who taught you that this behavior is acceptable?
2. Do you believe that your disrespectful behavior is helpful to the perception that police are unfair to black people (i.e. Black Lives Matter)?
3. Is there a possibility that your behavior demonstrates (to police and bystanders/witnesses) that you are in the wrong rather than the police?
4. Have the children in the car who witnessed the adults in the (same) car showing disrespect to the police officers, now been shown (or taught) a behavior that could ultimately put them in danger at some future time during some potential encounter with law-enforcement?
5. How is it that adults, can act in such an immature fashion? How can they not know how to properly act?
6. Does the possibility exist that the behavior I witnessed shows a systemic problem within a particular demographic?
7. Are there self-defeating behaviors—including never accepting responsibility for one's own actions, that are fueling the hatred and unrest to the detriment of not only those present now, but also future generations?
8. Is that what any of us really wants???
9. Who would you call for help if all of the police officers left law-enforcement?
10. Do you honestly think we would be safer in a world with no law and order?
While it is good that the police are being held to a higher standard, why should that not also include the rest of society? Who benefits if cops have to act better but the rest of the population is allowed to misbehave?
BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD.
—KJC
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Vikings Beat Saints
Somehow, even though the Saints now have Adrian Peterson, they lost! Dalvin Cook, who is the new, rookie running back for the Vikings rushed for 127 yards on 22 carries; along with 10 receiving yards—in his first game for Minnesota in its 29-19 victory against the New Orleans Saints. It was a new record for rushing yards by a Vikings' rookie in his (first game) debut ever.
That record was previously held by Adrian Peterson who had 103 yards on 19 carries in his first game playing for Minnesota. Peterson got to see the record get broken since he now plays for the New Orleans Saints.
It's still early in the season, but it seems that so far, the Vikings may be able to win even without Peterson!
That record was previously held by Adrian Peterson who had 103 yards on 19 carries in his first game playing for Minnesota. Peterson got to see the record get broken since he now plays for the New Orleans Saints.
It's still early in the season, but it seems that so far, the Vikings may be able to win even without Peterson!
Monday, September 11, 2017
Sliced Grilled Pork Roast
How do you make a pork roast in 20 minutes? I sliced mine and grilled it over charcoal. I was short on time and it was quick and tasted amazing!
Friday, September 08, 2017
That Red Light Meant STOP!!!
To the woman who drove through the red light and came within a second of killing me as I was walking in the crosswalk in downtown St. Paul this afternoon—your lack of attention/consideration, almost cost my family to lose "Dad." Slow down and obey the traffic rules!
Hurricane 1 2 3...
Apparently "Hurricane Season" comes with a deadly, 1, 2, 3 punch this year. I hope it calms down soon!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2017_Atlantic_hurricane_season
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2017_Atlantic_hurricane_season
Why Does North Korea Want War?
Why does North Korea (i.e. Kim Jong-Un) want war? I think the answer to this encompasses more than simply North Korea. It could also explain what has been termed, "Radical Islam" as well. Essentially, there have been no updates—in... forever. The program runs, but it is weak and it desperately wants to show that it is strong. By firing missiles and rhetoric toward its longtime "enemy," the USA, it (i.e. Kim Jong-Un) thinks that he is showing strength. What he is really showing, however, is stupidity and a ridiculous disregard for life. You could compare it to a "karate guy" who is threatening an entire platoon of highly trained army rangers. The rangers watch as the karate guy jumps around and when he finally threatens too close, they shoot and he is dead.
So why do China and Russia support North Korea? Because they are all Communist countries—which means they are like family. North Korea is the oddball, mentally challenged brother, and they can only try to protect him even though he may be instigating the fight. Even though Communist, China and Russia have received some updates and at least outwardly, they try to behave and benefit from the global economy. In fact, China is doing quite well at the global economy (despite blocking Internet sites that the government disapproves of). But North Korea has not updated since before WWII. That's a long time to be isolated. It's no wonder that the mentality is a bit behind the rest of the world... except maybe in those places where Islam is still 2000 years without any updates (except for everyone has a smart phone now).
The World is full of dumb. We have plenty here in the good old USA. But the real progress does not always come from the leaders. Sometimes the people are genuine and kind if given a chance. In fact, if they are given updates they might just join the global "neighborhood" too.
So why do China and Russia support North Korea? Because they are all Communist countries—which means they are like family. North Korea is the oddball, mentally challenged brother, and they can only try to protect him even though he may be instigating the fight. Even though Communist, China and Russia have received some updates and at least outwardly, they try to behave and benefit from the global economy. In fact, China is doing quite well at the global economy (despite blocking Internet sites that the government disapproves of). But North Korea has not updated since before WWII. That's a long time to be isolated. It's no wonder that the mentality is a bit behind the rest of the world... except maybe in those places where Islam is still 2000 years without any updates (except for everyone has a smart phone now).
The World is full of dumb. We have plenty here in the good old USA. But the real progress does not always come from the leaders. Sometimes the people are genuine and kind if given a chance. In fact, if they are given updates they might just join the global "neighborhood" too.
Liberally Thinking...
After being in the first generation in my family to graduate college, and after paying for the entirety of my college education by working, and after graduating having been offered an interview by the only all black newspaper in the Twin Cities—until I showed up for said interview being an unexpected color, and having worked in situations where I was in the minority in multiple ways and sometimes treated very badly by people who said they were being treated unfairly; or by ultra-liberal people who practiced their own reverse brand of racism, I have naturally developed a skepticism for people who try to turn every issue, into a racial disparity issue.
So if you really and truly believe that you succeeded because of a thing called "white privilege," and that you owe everything to an unfair system, then yes, I agree with you that you should give your house and your car to someone who is poor.
Personally, after working to pay for my education that I worked hard to study for, and then working hard to move into a field called Information Technology, that I was not directly educated for—so I had to work extra hard to learn about it and become valuable in the that field, and then I kept moving up into better and higher paying jobs, I actually think that I deserve to keep the things that I worked hard my whole life for.
And if I am ever in a position to hire someone for a job that I am responsible to fill, I will feel it necessary to hire the best, most qualified person for that job no matter what demographic group that they represent. So I sure hope that if that day comes, the people who interview (with me) have done their best because I don't want anyone to tell me that race played a role in the process—because seriously, why would I not hire the best qualified person?
So if you really and truly believe that you succeeded because of a thing called "white privilege," and that you owe everything to an unfair system, then yes, I agree with you that you should give your house and your car to someone who is poor.
Personally, after working to pay for my education that I worked hard to study for, and then working hard to move into a field called Information Technology, that I was not directly educated for—so I had to work extra hard to learn about it and become valuable in the that field, and then I kept moving up into better and higher paying jobs, I actually think that I deserve to keep the things that I worked hard my whole life for.
And if I am ever in a position to hire someone for a job that I am responsible to fill, I will feel it necessary to hire the best, most qualified person for that job no matter what demographic group that they represent. So I sure hope that if that day comes, the people who interview (with me) have done their best because I don't want anyone to tell me that race played a role in the process—because seriously, why would I not hire the best qualified person?
Tuesday, September 05, 2017
Keep in Touch!
I dropped my kindergartener off at his grandparents house and talked to him for a few minutes and then said I had to leave.
So he said,
"OK bye dad! Keep in touch!"
So he said,
"OK bye dad! Keep in touch!"
Friday, September 01, 2017
Can You Be Ceased?
If you can be deceased, can you also be ceased? Mark Moore and I liked to contemplate such issues as we worked together doing Government TV. While we didn't always agree, we did always respect each other—and Mark grew the program into something we are all proud of. Goodbye Mark. I enjoyed our time together.
Thursday, August 31, 2017
R. Rosicky's in the USA!
R. Rosicky’s
in the USA!
By Kevin J. Curtis
Rock Rosicky was tough as nails.
He had disappeared in enemy territory during his third tour of duty in one of
the most dangerous places on Earth. There was little hope of his return now—some
14 days after he missed his extraction date.
Losing an operative such as Rock
was not unheard of, but it was also not something that Major Schlitz liked
dealing with. He knew Rocky personally and it was not only a huge loss to the Special
Forces unit, but also a deeply personal one. Sadly, Major Schlitz was
contemplating closing the entire project down and pulling all of his resources
and operations out of the country.
It wasn’t that he was too afraid
that Rock would talk if he was captured; or even that he had any really
critical information to give if he was broken during torture. It was more that
the whole project was now severely undermined and the idea that it was still a
secret to the enemy forces was both in jeopardy and in doubt.
As the major shredded the last
document, he reached for that bottle of local moonshine and was about to take a
bump off of it when he heard the crackle of the two-way radio coming from the
bottom of his desk drawer. Carefully removing the booby-trap before opening the
drawer containing the radio, he disabled the mine that had been rigged to
destroy both the radio and the person opening the drawer where it was kept.
He clicked on the microphone and
spoke.
“Cobra one to Dragon two, please repeat.”
“Dragon two to Cobra one, all is well but, destroy all traces and
abandon location. You have two hours to rendezvous for relocation.”
“Dragon two, can we extend the search, over?”
“Negative Cobra one, flee now. That is an order.”
“Roger, Dragon,” Major Schlitz replied sadly.
“Don’t worry Brent,” came an unexpected transmission.
“Repeat?”
Then the final transmission came
through; breaking all protocol and transmission codes. But it was worth it!
“R. Rosicky’s in the USA! R. Rosicky’s in the USA! R. Rosicky’s in the
USA! That’s all! Rock is in the USA!”
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Trump Says Both Sides at Fault
Trump Says Both Sides at Fault
Unassociated Press
August 29, 2017
Refusing to take the side of the chickens, President Trump said that both the chickens and the sheep were in the wrong during a farmyard protest yesterday that turned violent. Poultry groups were incensed by the President's lack of condemnation of the sheep. The grand wizard of the sheep said Trump's views are basically the same as his.
Monday, August 28, 2017
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