An Insightful Take on the Supreme Court's Affirmative Action Decision (Appearing Online June 30 and in the Paper July 1)

 

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So Much for Original Intent: Timing Is Everything

Text of a letter to the NYT not accepted for publication: "It doesn't take a constitutional scholar to understand that the whole point of the 14th amendment, one of the three key post-Civil War amendments, was to put the country on a path where African-Americans, who had been enslaved for over 200 years, would be remediated. The idea that an amendment to the constitution whose framers directed it to benefit persons of color renders unconstitutional a school's decision to do just that boggles the mind. At the same time, the idea that the framers of the first amendment intended to let one's supposed religious belief justify its "marriage business" discriminating against (not doing business with) a minority whose right to marriage is recognized by the constitution and the Supreme Court boggles the mind again. The two things we might be thankful for are that: (i) the majority now sitting on the Court were not the majority when Brown vs. Board of Education and Loving vs. Virginia and other civil rights cases were being decided and the freedoms being asserted were held to be protected; and (ii) some day the Roberts' Court's legacy will fall into the same cesspool where Dredd Scott and Plessey swirl."

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Gaming Trump

The following has been suggested by a loyal reader who was inspired by the "Hacks on Tap" podcast with Mike Murphy and David Axelrod: "According to the utterly absurd RNC and its debate rules, to get on stage for any debates, a candidate must show a large number (not sure what it is) of small contributions from a number of different states. I intend to contribute $5 to Christie's campaign, just to get him on the stage.  It would be well worth it.  I encourage others to do the same."

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Nature Abhors a Vacuum: The Bane of Series vs. Movies

Dopesick is a 10-part series. It's very good. But, if it were a 2 hour movie, it would be fantastic. It would have forced the screenwriter and director to focus on the really good stuff (especially the legal stuff which is new to most people) instead of having to fill up so much film with repeating and repeating and repeating less interesting stuff (the ravages of  addiction which most people know about anyhow). Your Honor suffers the same fate. Of course, these comments are not applicable to the GREAT series such as The Wire, Deadwood, and others.

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You Can Hire a Bot to Torture Telemarketers

As this WSJ article explains, AI software and voice cloners simulate distracted saps willing to stay on the phone forever—or until callers finally give up. You might enjoy reading the dialogue between the bot and telemarketer set out in the article. You might even get your own bot.

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The "Exit Ramp" in Justice Roberts' Affirmative Action Decision

"Nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration or otherwise." Putting aside the declination to use the Oxford comma, how does this line not enable universities to take race into account, and give it whatever weight they wish, in passing on any application for admission?

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Pence's Statement on the Supreme Court's Decision Banning Affirmative Action in College Admissions

In case you missed it, here's what Pence had to say: “There may have been a time, 50 years ago, when we needed to affirmatively take steps to correct long-term racial bias in institutions of higher education. But I can tell you, as the father of three college graduates, those days are long over."

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CDC Recommends RV Vaccinations for People 60 and Over

As explained in this article, single dose RSV vaccines from Pfizer and GSK have been approved by the CDC and should be available this Fall. As always, check with your doctor.

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What to Know About Malaria

Given the reporting of 5 cases of malaria in the U.S. of people who had not traveled abroad, the CDC issued a warning sparking concern about local transmission. This WaPo article has an informative overview of the matter.

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Drop Off/Pick Up Alternative at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Paper

According to the Arizona Republic, dropping off and picking up passengers at the Sky Train stations (one is East of the airport at 44th Street and the other is West at 24th Street) involves much less dropping-off/picking-up traffic than one encounters at the terminals (especially Terminal 4). We intend to try it at least for dropping off, but for picking up people who have checked their luggage, one might find some resistance.

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Invasion of and a Warning to the Bots

Invasion of the Bots: In recent weeks, the number of hits on this blog's website (aka blogsite) has soared to 1,500 to 2,000 per day, yes per day. The eavesdropping by the NYT, WaPo, and the others known to follow and plagiarize from this blog cannot possibly account for numbers like these. Whether it's an AI glitch or simply bots gone wild, we have no clue. 

Warning to the Bots: We ask the bots to stop hiding behind their cloak of anonymity and come out from their caves and let us know who you are and why you have taken such an unholy interest in this blog. If you bots fail to heed this warning, we will monetize this blogsite.

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The Importance of the Judiciary's Doing Its Job (and a PS on Trump's "Victory" on the Rape Charge)

When judges do their job, like Judge Sirica did in Watergate (as anyone who has watched White House Plumbers on HBO Max would know and everyone should watch it), justice is done and democracy is protected. When judges decline to use the tools they are given to promote justice and democracy, the anti-democratic forces remain unchecked and tend to thrive. Such is glaringly seen in the failure of court after court after court refusing to impose appropriate severe sanctions for the bringing of meritless cases challenging various of the 2020 elections. In short, by not imposing sanctions, they allow well-funded losers free to continue to raise more money from bringing more baseless lawsuits than abiding the rules of law. The Dominion defamation lawsuit against Fox News opened the door to hold spreaders of lies accountable. The defamation lawsuit brought by the Maricopa County Recorder against Kari Lake is another step in the right direction. 

PS: Trump's has filed a defamation counterclaim against E. Jean Carroll (who prevailed in her sexual abuse, assault, and defamation suit against Trump but failed on her rape charge)--asserting he was defamed by Carroll's "jury-determined-false-allegations-of-rape." Putting aside Trump's over-read and mis-read of that verdict, which we hope the judge will deal with appropriately, modesty prevents our repeating here why we (and  we alone): (i) expressed such disappointment with the verdict (in that it proved nothing beyond what Trump admitted in the Access Hollywood tapes); and (ii) were critical of plaintiff's counsel not calling Trump to testify. For those who still don't get it, here's the point: In a he-said/she-said case, the jury has to decide who the liar is. On the assault/sex abuse counts, the jury did not have to make any such decision because, as noted, Trump admitted as such on the Access Hollywood tapes which were in evidence. In contrast, on the rape count, all the jury had was what "she said." Yes, Trump would have denied the rape on the stand. But if the cross-examination by Carroll's lawyer did not reveal Trump to be a liar, and then be able to present the case to the jury as "'one of them is lying' and it is your job and duty to decide which one," Carroll's lawyer should have found someone else to try the case. One would guess that Trump believes he can and will present his defamation counterclaim on summary judgment as to liability and have no need to testify. 

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Steps 1 and 2 Strategy for Wordle and New Wordle Stat

[Spoiler Alert:  The PS to this post gives the single best word to use in Wordle's step 1. It comes from the noted "best analysis" link. If you don't want to eat the fruit from that tree of knowledge, do NOT read the PS or the second half of the article found by clicking on the "best analysis" link in the Step 1 Strategy]

Step 1 Strategy: There is a debate between picking the same word every time and different words. There also is a debate whether to start with 2-vowel words, 3-vowel words, or 4-vowel words (e.g., audio, adieu). We don't know how to resolve these debates, but we do know that two daily players who have been advised that they have the same cognitive structures differ on the issue--one goes with 2-vowel words and the other 3-vowel words. The best analysis we've read says to start with 4-vowel words (adieu or audio) or one of three 2-vowel words, a fact known the "2-vowel" player who falsely claimed the strategy as his own when it's clear he read it in the noted work.

Step 2 Strategy: I originally was led to believe this step 2 strategy devised by a semi-loyal reader: Except if you get 2 greens+ on step 1 or otherwise a compelling result, step 2 should be a totally different word than the step 1 word, i.e., a word with 5 different letters no matter the yellow and green letters revealed on step 1. As it turns out, when it comes to covering up his consulting the literature which is replete with this strategy, said reader is a recidivist.

New Wordle Stat: Wordle has a new stat feature which shows you how you did over the past 2 weeks. It's available on the computer version but not on the phone app version. We wrote Wordle praising them for this addition, but suggested it would be better and more informative to have it be for "all-time" and not just the past 2 weeks. After some prodding, they agreed to pass on the suggestion to "the Games team."

PS: Based on the NYT's cutting down the possible answers from over 10,000 words to a few thousand words, the article hooked to the above link goes on to suggest a particular 2-letter word, to-wit, salet (although trace or crane) should do as well. 

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Costco Is Cracking Down on "Card-Sharing"

Following in the spirit of Netflix's cracking down on password-sharing, Costco is cracking down on "card-sharing." While you can get into the store showing simply a Costco card (which the clerks never really look at), when you go to checkout, you will be asked to show both the Costco card and a separate photo ID, like a driver's license. Not sure if this will be enforced at the self-checkout kiosks, but we certainly hope so. As all loyal and semi-loyal readers know, we frown on this kind of "sharing" which is pure and simple theft. We wonder if Costco will keep any clerks at the entrances pretending to check for Costco cards.

[EOP]

Suggestion for Skechers Slip-Ins

Skechers Slip-Ins let you put them on without any aids or bending ... you just slide your foot into them. Unfortunately, that doesn't solve the problem for those having to strain to put on socks. We went to bat for those people and submitted the following suggestion: "I love Skechers Slip-Ins. They are a brilliant idea and a God-send to older people. The only problem is that, while your slip-ins solve the problem of putting on shoes, they do not solve the problem of putting on socks, and socks are more difficult to put on than shoes. Here's my suggestion: If Skechers Slip-Ins had an removeable, washable insert that acted like and replaced the need for a sock, that should be a win-win for Skechers and for its customers. Thank you for considering this suggestion." Given Skechers' response ("We appreciate your suggestion and we will forward this to the appropriate team for review"), we have little hope that they get it or will do anything about it.

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Mileage Taxes in Lieu of Gas Taxes for EVs

Generally speaking, state and federal gas taxes are used for road improvements and repairs and other such infrastructure. While EV owners pay a tax on the electricity bought to charge their vehicles, EV owners do not pay any state or federal gas taxes but they do maintain the privilege of driving on local, state, and federally supported roads and such. Some states already and others are looking to impose a tax on EV owners based on the mileage their cars rack up. Makes you think.

[EOP]

Google's Foldable Phone

Google's foldable phone has gotten good reviews. I'm not a fan, but I bring it to your attention because that's the kind of person I am and I know many of you have no reluctance to spend $1,800 on a smart phone.

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Just When You Think the Supreme Court Was Incapable of Doing Anything Good

Although it did not close the door as tightly as it might have, in rejecting the "independent state legislature" (ISL) theory, the Supreme Court rejected any rationale Trump and his supporters had to stop the electoral process on January 6. The stakes in this decision could not have been higher. Had the Thomas dissent on the merits prevailed (joined in by Gorsuch) (Thomas, Gorsuch, and Alito also dissented on procedural grounds), the 2024 election would have been become a nightmare, and our democracy might have faced the gravest danger it ever faced. Hard to believe this Supreme Court is to be credited for saving us.

PS: It is thought that Jack Smith's charging decision on the January 6 case depended on what the Supreme Court did, and that he wanted to wait for this decision before charging Trump. With Giuliani now apparently having testified before the grand jury, it would not surprise anyone if a January 6 case indictment comes down soon.

PPS: On the document case, Lawrence Tribe points out that the Trump audio tape--proving that he had classified documents (in New Jersey), knew they were classified, knew he had not and now could not declassify them, and showed them to persons admittedly not permitted to see them (in New Jersey)--gives Jack Smith, should the Florida judge "goof up" during the pretrial, the option to file and proceed promptly with a separate case in New Jersey.

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To Get or Not Get a New Smart Phone

This WaPo article takes you through a step-by-step quiz to help you decide if you need to or otherwise should replace your current smart phone.

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Invasion by the Originalist Body Snatchers

If you think the invasion by the originalist body snatchers limited itself to Alito and others on the Supreme Court as evidenced by the Dobbs and other decisions, read this WSJ piece. It will show you they are now invading the world of architecture as there is legislation being pushed in Congress to make "classical architecture," which is what the Founding Fathers knew as architecture, to be the default architectural style for government buildings. I'm not kidding. And I have no idea if that's considered a woke or anti-woke view.

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Future of EVs in the United States

China is the biggest consumer and manufacturer of EVs in the world. They are now selling their EVs in Europe and are poised to enter the American market. And put us down as being in great favor. We are excited. We love the Xpeng and Nio sedans, whose properly-sized sedans rival the Tesla 3 for looks and compactness, and likely will be priced even lower. 

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The Future of PC, Printer, and Related Product Marketing

HP's chief executive sees the day coming soon where HP's computers, printers, toner, and such will be marketed on a subscription basis rather than on a point-of-sale basis. Makes you think.

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Dopesick (2021 TV Mini-Series on Hulu)

Further to our previous review of Dopesick after watching the first episode, a warning is in order: As horrifying and horrible the story told by this film is, it is addictive ... you cannot stop watching. It tells the outrageous story where our jails are filled with hapless, poor, dope pushers, while the Sackler family and Purdue Pharma with corrupted help from the FDA charted a knowingly fraudulent course leading to the addiction and deaths of millions of people and spent not a day in jail nor suffered any significant dent to their lavish standard of living. Michael Keaton, who deservedly won an Emmy, and the rest of the cast, turn in outstanding performances. 

[PS: Spoiler Alert: There is a hilarious scene with FBI Director Comey who thought the investigation involved the chicken company not the pharma company. On a totally unrelated issue, speaking of Comey, a semi-loyal reader pointed out that, but for Comey, Clinton likely would have been president in 2016, and then Trump likely would have been president in 2020. What an irony that Trump and his supporters rail against the FBI and Mueller, when those two did as much as anyone to solidify Trump's standing with his base]

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Smart Way to Pay for College and Reduce the Cost of Tuition

As this WSJ article explains, the Private College 529 Plan lets families lock in tuition by buying prepaid tuition certificates at current prices, which can save thousands of dollars. If your child doesn't attend a member college, you can change the beneficiary to another child or get a refund.

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PS re American Airlines Refundable Tickets

If you pay the fee to have a non-refundable AA ticket converted into being refundable, you might not be able to get the refund to your credit card online (you can get a credit to your AA account online) (maybe there is such a site but I couldn't find it). If you call AA, they will send you an email that has a link to the online refund site. You then fill out some information, and you will get a full refund confirmation within 24 hours. Here's the additional good news: The refund will not be just for the flight price you paid but also will include the fee you paid to make the ticket refundable.

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Three Dishwasher Tips

As or more important than the dishwasher itself, following these three tips will maximize your dishwasher's cleaning: (i) the detergent is more important than the dishwasher, and Cascade is the recommended detergent; (ii) put utensils "business side" up except for knives which should be "business side" down to avoid stabbing yourself when removing them; and (iii) glasses, cups, and bowls must be upside down and never lain sideways. If you don't trust me, ask Wirecutter.

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Microsoft Word and More for Free

You can get Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and One Note for free (that's right, no $100/year subscription). Here is the link from which to download them. Note: The only "drawback" is that you have to be online to use them.

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Maggie Moore(s) (2023 Movie on Amazon Prime (but not free))

[Prefatory Note: This movie was recommended by a semi-loyal reader who, as often as not, has no idea what he's talking about. But he would be crushed and distraught if he were not given credit for recommending this and, indeed, not just recommending, but utzing unmercifully until it was watched]

Maggie Moore(s) has a great cast who turn in wonderful performances, including John Hamm and Tina Fey. It is expertly and tightly directed by John Slattery (who first appeared on a Saturday night TV show no one but me watched while you've seen him in Mad Men and Veep). The story is a murder mystery, actually a double murder mystery, but unlike any other one you've ever seen. There are many clever lines which, along with the various plot points which also are cleverly done, certainly hold your attention and make you laugh even though it is a double murder mystery. It's definitely worth more than the price of admission.

[PS: By way of full disclosure, we're not sure that the reviewer for The New Yorker liked this movie. We say that because we do not understand what the reviewer was saying in their review]

[EOP]

PS on Paying for to Make an American Airlines Ticket Refundable

An earlier post noted the American Airline option of paying extra to have a non-refundable ticket converted to being a refundable ticket. The process of getting the "refund" by way of a credit in your American Airline account is easy and doable online. The process of getting it as a credit back on your credit card is ... let's just say, not so easy. I don't even know yet if it's possible.

[EOP]

PS re Trump Document Trial

[Prefatory Note: The following is the approach that Jack Smith, lead prosecutor in the Trump document case, might have pursued instead of asking for a delay in the start of the trial. Although the editing is mine, the idea came from a loyal reader, and I support it]

Declaration of Jack Smith in Support of an Immediate Speedy Trial:

1.  I  have turned over all the indictment documents to the revolving door defense attorneys;

2.  The 6th amendment guarantees the rights of criminal defendants, including the right to a public trial without unnecessary delay;

3.  Time is of the essence that this trial be held promptly against the possible, if not likely, Republican nominee for President of the United States;

4.   It is in the country's and the defendant's interest and it is fitting that the criminal trial against Donald J Trump commence on July 4, 2023;

5.  The prosecution will call a single witness, the defendant; and if defendant chooses not to appear because of his constitutional right not to testify against himself as guaranteed under the 5th amendment, the evidence presented to the jury will consist only of the video, audio, and printed recordings of Trump, and his advisors and former lawyers, and that such evidence will be concluded in two days, after which the defense may call any witness it chooses, followed by the government's rebuttal.

[Posterior Note: It is meet to note that another loyal reader takes strong exception, arguing that it is Trump who would want to speed up the trial to make conviction more difficult, and hence applause is due the prosecutor for preempting Trump by seeking to delay the trial date. No one can say this blog is not fair and balanced in presenting all views]

[EOP]

The Joy of Bird Watching

I have come to love all three stages of bird watching: observing the bird, identifying the bird, and documenting the bird. If you have any interest in taking up bird watching (and why you wouldn't is beyond me), this article has an informative overview on the topic.

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Document Case Prosecutor Asks for a Trial Delay: Bit of a Head Scratcher

Given how outstanding the indictment was, it is far from me to question Jack Smith, the Trump document case prosecutor. But I cannot figure out why he would ask for a trial postponement until December. Specifically, it is hard to imagine that Trump won't be asking for postponements at every juncture, so it's unclear why the prosecutor would not just wait for Trump to do so and then take a reasonable responsive position saying, "We have no objection to postponing the trial somewhat, but not for as long as Trump wants to postponement it." It also is a bit concerning that the government submitted a list of 84 trial witnesses and added that that list “does not comprise all of the witnesses the government might call at trial.” At the same time, the government's motion to delay the trial argued in its filing that the trial should still be fast-tracked despite its enormous political implications, because it “involves straightforward theories of liability, and does not present novel questions of fact or law,” nor is it particularly “unusual or complex” from a legal perspective. Put me down as confused.

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How Wirecutter Is Supported

As this article explains, Wirecutter earns money through subscriptions and various affiliate marketing programs. That means they get paid commissions on products purchased through their links to retailer sites. That is not a bad thing, and they assure that their analyses and recommendations are objective and unbiased. But we thought you might like to know how Wirecutter supports itself and how you might support Wirecutter.

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Repairing Electronic Devices

This WaPo article has an informative overview re repairing electronic devices. Here's what I know: If you have a broken cellphone screen--say a Samsung Galaxy S10e, if you send it to Samsung, you will get original parts (the screen has a special film so that no screen protector is needed) and the cost will be about $100. If you go to ubreakifix, which is what comes up first in The Google, you are not guaranteed original parts and the cost will be close to $250, which is a bit odd given that you can buy a brand new S10e on Amazon or eBay for under $300. Point made.

PS: Data Doctors and The Geek Squad should be avoided both because of cost and professionalism and having no clue as to what they are doing (or, worse, they know what they are doing and their diagnostics and recommendations are not on the up-and-up). By way of example, they told one customer that their laptop was unduly slow because it needed a new battery. The customer ran the laptop at all times plugged in.

[EOP]

Best Brioche Buns: Sara Lee

There are several makers of brioche hamburger buns that do an okay job. But the best by far are the Sara Lee 6-pack. They are the softest and most flavorful by far, and unlike all the rest, as good as you'll get in a top hamburger joint.

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How Not to Run a Restaurant: The Palms Mediterranean (Phoenix Restaurant)

We have given the Palms Mediterranean the most laudatory reviews and encouraged others to go there. I had intended to eat there this past Tuesday and, when I showed up, I was stunned to find the restaurant closed. Not that being closed on Tuesday stunned me, but that I had checked their website before going and it said it would be open Tuesdays. When I got home, I sent an email via their website explaining the website error. I heard nothing back. Two days later I phoned (finding the phone number somewhere else because it's not on their website) and asked to speak to the manager. I was told he'd be back in 40 minutes but I could leave a message and phone number and he could call me back (it's a very hi-tech place in many ways but apparently doesn't have Caller ID). I explained the two website deficiencies and said I'd welcome a call back if they expected to see me dine or do take-out from there again. I got no phone call. I then sent another email which read as follows: "On Tuesday, I sent you an email about showing up for lunch only to find you were closed even though your website says you are open on Tuesdays. I would have thought you would appreciate having learned about the error in your website (which also fails to give your telephone number), but heard nothing back. On Thursday, I phoned to be sure you got the message about the website flaws, and was told I'd get a call back, but I never did. Your food is fantastic. But, I am sorry to say your customer relations leave much to be desired." I heard nothing back. I hope for their sake this was an anomaly and that their business will thrive without my patronage.

[EOP]

Two Essential Items to Keep in Your Phone: Passport and Driver's License

The two means of identification you never want to be without (by virtue of forgetting, losing or otherwise) are your driver's license (especially if you have flown to a distant place and want to fly home) and your passport (especially if you leave the country and want to get back in). In the olden days, you had to rely on not losing or forgetting them. But now, you can store them on your phone in ways that will make them accessible even if you lose your phone. Yes, you want to store them securely so that others cannot access them should you lose your phone or should it be hacked. But don't make the perfect the enemy of the good, and please, take a few seconds (which is all it takes) to store those documents on your phone right now. Other items worth storing are your prescription meds, your vaccination records, your allergies, and your medical and auto insurance cards.

[EOP]

Inside Man (2006 Movie on Netflix Until June 30)

Inside Man is a cross between Serpico and Quick Change (i.e., a bank robbery movie with hostage taking) with quite a few twists of its own. The cast is first rate with Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster and others, all of whom turn in first rate performances. It certainly will hold your attention up to the ending, which is not so easy to understand. If anyone tries to tell you that you've already seen it, you can credibly deny it given that there's no review of it on this blog (which has nothing to do with the fact that this is a 2006 movie and the blog started in 2011).

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Follow Up on Other Wordle Flaw (Including a Request From the Wordle Team)

[Prefatory Note: When these interchanges started with the Wordle team (Jake in particular), a semi-loyal reader of marginal technological ability or insight cynically suggested I was talking to an AI bot. I believe, much to his embarrassment but a credit to his redemption, he has seen the light]

Nature of the Flaw as Explained to Wordle Team: "There have been occasions where I’ve typed in a word, several times, and it comes up “Not on Our Word List.” And the next morning, when I look at the answers, there it is. I had thought at first that I must not have typed it correctly, but it has happened to me several times, and it has happened to several friends who also do the SB daily several times. Now, here’s the real twist on this. About a week ago, I had every word but one to get the Queen Bee. I typed in “bubba” which I know to be a word, but it registered as “Not on Our Word List.” I re-typed it in at least 5 times, and kept getting the same result. I then turned off my computer to run an errand, and upon my return, after starting up the computer, I typed in “bubba” again and it accepted it and the Queen Bee prize came up. If you have any inkling about how either of these things could occur (i.e., the rejecting of words that end up appearing in the answers and the rejecting of words only to then accept them), I and my friends would be most interested. Thanks!"

Response/Explanation From Jake of the Wordle Team: "I learned that our developers are aware that some players have experienced similar situations where a word they entered was not initially accepted but was later recognized by the game or appeared on the answer list. While we can't confirm the exact cause of this behavior at this time, we are actively investigating these reports. There could be several possible causes: (1) there might have been a temporary issue with the game's recognition of valid words (This is something we're looking into); (2) ser error is another possibility--sometimes, a word might not be entered correctly, or a typo could be overlooked (mot in your specific case, but in others we've investigated); and (3) lastly, connectivity issues could potentially cause the game to not properly register a valid word. We understand how frustrating this can be, especially when you're close to reaching Queen Bee status. We appreciate your patience as we work to resolve these issues. In the meantime, we recommend double-checking the spelling of words and ensuring that your internet connection is stable when playing."

Request From Jake of the Wordle Team: "Let your friends know that we're still looking for more reports of these instances. The more data we have, the better we can understand the issue and work towards a resolution."

[EOP]

Wordle Tip and Follow-Up on the Wordle Flaw

Wordle Tip: Unless you have a very lucky opening word with 2 greens plus, it does not make sense to try to get the solution on the second step. Instead, as a semi-loyal reader taught me, it's better to put in an entirely new word using none of the "finds" you got on the first step. Here's a variation on that strategy: If you get a green and a yellow or two yellows on the first step, consider not repeating the green on the second step but do try the yellow(s) in different places on the second step. Just remember, as they say, while Wordle takes a minute to learn, it takes a lifetime to master.

Wordle Flaw Follow-Up: A few days ago, there was a post explaining a flaw in the Wordle bot's analysis, where it said there were only 2 possible words in the next step when in fact there were 3. We brought the flaw to the attention of the Wordle team. And  here was their response (and I'm not kidding): "Hi Gene, Thank you so much for bringing this to our attention! Your active participation and sharp eye certainly didn't miss a beat in the Wordle game. You're completely right. In an earlier version, WordleBot had access to the entire pool of 2,300-word solutions, which it used to hone its guesses. However, we recently updated the system so that WordleBot now uses an algorithm to make the most probable guesses based on patterns and probabilities. It's a bit like WordleBot is playing the game itself now, and as you've expertly pointed out, it might not always have the full picture. I hope this unexpected hiccup brought an additional bit of fun to your game. I went ahead and passed your feedback to our developers of Wordlebot for consideration in making Wordlebot a better player." Here is what I wrote in response to the survey they sent me about the interaction: "Jake W, the Customer Care Advocate who handled my request, deserves special commendation for the outstanding way that he handled the matter. I trust the NYT knows what a valuable asset it has in Jake W."

[EOP]

Tips on Car Buying

No one has ever liked buying a car, but it's still worse now than it's ever been. This WaPo article has some excellent tips. And if you miss the car world when it was all about negotiation, note the following: "Don't expect to negotiate. It’s not that cars are more expensive, it’s that manufacturers are building more expensive cars, such as SUVs and trucks, and discontinuing sedans because they aren’t as profitable. While it never hurts to ask for a deal, expect little to no negotiation. You may even pay as much as 10 percent over MSRP, but it’s possible you can negotiate for add-ons and an extended warranty."

[EOP]

Best Hair Dryer: Dyson Supersonic

The Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is our pick and Wirecutter's pick for best hair dryer. Yeah, like all Dyson products, it cost too much.

[EOP]

Freezing Your Credit

One thing that is strongly recommended by consumer fraud experts: Freeze you credit with the three large credit reporting bureaus. This is free by law. If you freeze your credit, no one can check your creditworthiness to apply for a loan or rent a home or obtain a credit card in your name. This discourages criminals from impersonating you and sticking you with unpaid bills. To freeze your credit, go to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, or start on annualcreditreport.com. (NEVER Google anything related to credit or identity theft.) Just note that there is one inconvenience, and that is you probably will need to unfreeze your credit before you apply for a credit card or buy a new cellphone plan or buy a car. The good news is you can do so on a temporary basis that will allow the freeze to go back into effect promptly.

[EOP]

Mobile Hot Spotting, USB Tethering, and Resetting After an Outage

If you lose your cable internet connection, and resort to connecting your computer through your phone by USB tethering or using your phone as a mobile hot spot (options covered in several earlier posts), you need not choose one or the other. You actually can activate both at the same time. In that way, you can leave your phone plugged in to charge and, if there's a problem with tethering connection, it will switch to mobile hot spotting. And remember, once you experience a lost cable internet connection, be sure to write down the date and time, and then call your cable company the next day or day after to request a prorated refund/credit for the outage (on a $200  monthly bill, you should get at least a $7 refund/credit, but sometimes they give you double or more that amount). Finally, once the outage is cleared, your internet connection might not spring back on its own. Before doing any trouble shooting or calling your ISP, reboot your modem, router, and computer, which generally will fix the adapter settings that got scrambled as a result of the outage.

[EOP]

Those Whacky Baseball Gods

With men's professional golf off the table, sports fans' interest now focuses on MLB. The Phillies were 7 games below 500 on June 1. By June19, they were 4 games above 500. They've won 13 of their past 15 games and their last six in a row. When this streak started, they were 8 games behind Atlanta in the NL East. What would you guess as to how many games behind Atlanta they were as they began this week's series with Atlanta? Well, I won't make you look it up. It's 8 games.

[EOP] 

Season 2 of Your Honor (2020 TV Series on Hulu/Showtime)

If Your Honor, reviewed several days ago, were a 3-episode mini-series, it would get 5 stars. But Season 1's going on for 10 episodes took it from the refreshingly original riveting to more like a pounding headache. And then there's Season 2. It has a tenuous connection to Season 1 but it's a totally different and not nearly as intriguing a story. Actually, one has to suspend all sense of reality to buy into the second season. In short, you don't want to watch, that's for sure. But having been sucked in, there's no way you can just let it go, even though it seems to stop making any sense and loses all continuity. Here's the point: If you do start watching Season 2, don't watch it alone--watch it with someone who can explain to you what's happening and why so much seems out of sequence or things just pop up out of nowhere.

PS Warning: One of the nice features of most streaming services is allowing you to skip the recap of what happened previously. Not Hulu/Showtime, and, even worse, the recaps are done without regard to the order in which events actually happened.

[EOP]

Easy Home-Made Biscuits

We have homemade biscuits almost daily. I can’t think of any other baked good that so deftly straddles sweet and savory for dinner than drop biscuits. If you’re looking for a quick breakfast bread to slather with softened butter and strawberry jam, make drop biscuits:

 Ingredients:

½ cup (1 stick) very cold unsalted butter

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup buttermilk, plus more as needed

Melted butter, to finish (optional)

Directions:

Place cold butter in freezer to chill until very cold but not frozen, 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and place a rack in the center position. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicon mat.

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar and salt. Whisk to combine.

Remove butter from freezer. Use the large holes on a box grater to grate butter into bowl. Use your hands to toss shredded butter with flour to coat without clumping.

Pour buttermilk evenly over flour-butter mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold until combined, working quickly so butter stays cold. Add 1-2 tablespoons buttermilk if dough is not holding together.

Scoop out a scant ⅓ cup dough at a time and mound on prepared baking sheet. You should have 10 biscuits, spaced evenly.

Transfer to oven and bake until golden brown on top and set in center, 22-25 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. Brush with melted butter, if desired.

[EOP]

When to Shampoo Hair Daily and When Not To

When to wash daily: Using shampoo every day can be the right choice for people with oilier scalps where sebum can accumulate, making the hair limp, greasy and possibly smelly. Those with fine hair may also find that it becomes greasy more quickly, because there is less hair to absorb the oil. For them, a daily lather may be warranted. Daily washing may also be needed if you frequently use products such as gels or hair sprays, which can build up on your scalp and cause irritation — or even hinder hair growth by clogging the hair follicles. 

When to avoid daily shampooing: Not all hair textures can tolerate a daily wash including curly or coily hair, which may dry out, become brittle or break if washed daily or even every couple of days. Do not shampoo daily if you find your scalp is irritated or inflamed. Chemical treatments such as hair dyes and relaxers can make the hair shaft more prone to damage. Certain medications such as statins, antihistamines and diuretics, for example, may also increase skin and scalp dryness. If you take them, he added, wash your hair with a gentle shampoo that contains moisturizers to prevent dryness and irritation. It can also be helpful to use shampoo with warm instead of hot water, since lathering with hot water can remove too much oil from the scalp. Age can also dictate your shampooing schedule. Sebum production is typically slow during early childhood, goes into overdrive during puberty, levels out during adulthood and slows down gradually after age 70. So if you are older, your scalp might be drier, and it may not require a daily scrub.

[EOP]

My Favorite AI Apps

[Prefatory Note: Many of our loyal readers have embraced AI and are exploring new worlds and new ways to do things with it. For those who have yet to dip their toes in the AI waters, here are some of my favorite AI apps and what you can do with them. Most are available as websites as well as on iOS and Android devices]

ChatGPT by OpenAI: ChatGPT, the most famous generative-AI tool right now, lets users type text-only prompts in exchange for text-only responses. It was trained on huge amounts of data found on the internet, so it’s great for complex questions and drafting letters. To access the bot, create an account with OpenAI, or log in via Google, Microsoft or Apple. The free version is open to everyone, but it’s slow and can refuse requests if too many people are using it. The faster, $20-a-month ChatGPT Plus doesn’t have congestion outages, and gets under-the-hood updates sooner. OpenAI’s ChatGPT can explain complex topics and brainstorm ideas with its text-only responses.

Microsoft’s Bing: The new Bing incorporates OpenAI’s tech with Microsoft’s search engine for up-to-date responses. It lets you write prompts to deliver text, image and video search results. That’s helpful if a suggested recipe isn’t what you’re looking for, and you’d rather have a video walk you through the process step-by-step. The bot cites its sources, though that doesn’t mean it’s immune to AI hallucinations. It’s free to use, but to access all its features, you’ll have to download the Edge browser and log in with a Microsoft account. Microsoft’s Bing chat can include multimedia in its responses, such as YouTube videos.

Google’s Bard: Bard is great if you want to get straight to the point. You can use it to draft a blog post or an email to a boss, and even search the web. The company is working on an update that would let users prompt Bard with images, and in the coming months, Bard will be able to generate images using Adobe Firefly, a generative-AI image tool. You must be 18 years old or older with a Google account to use the free software, which works on a variety of browsers. Google’s Bard offers text and image responses, and will be able to generate images in the coming months. AI images can be based on text or visual prompts, such as “King Kong roller skating down the Empire State Building.” Many image generators have trouble re-creating humans accurately and are better suited for abstract concepts or ideas.

OpenAI's DALL-E: OpenAI’s DALL-E was one of the earliest image generators, and it’s still a fun, if clunky, tool. It generates four images based on a text description—“a chair shaped like an avocado”—or even a photo. If you signed up after April 6, you’ll have to buy credits to try it. OpenAI’s DALL-E was one of the earliest image generators. Prompt: An armchair shaped like an avocado.

Bing Image Creator: Bing Image Creator is powered by the latest version of OpenAI’s DALL-E, but improves on it with a slick interface and a way to get free fast results. You need to log in with a Microsoft account but can use any browser. When you sign up, you get “boosts,” tokens to generate images quickly. Boosts are replenished over time, but if you run out, image creation can take longer.  Users can access Bing Image Creator via its standalone website in any browser.

DreamStudio: Bing and DALL-E don’t let you create images of public figures. Stability AI’s DreamStudio does. You can type “Ariana Grande wearing a pink dress and eating a cupcake,” and get an image of her doing that—sort of. (Getty Images is suing Stability AI for copyright infringement.) To access the tool, create a Stability AI account or log in via Google or Discord. Everyone starts with 25 credits. Using system defaults, you can get about one image per credit, but it varies depending on your settings. You can pay $1 for an additional 100 credits. Stability AI’s DreamStudio lets users generate images of public figures.

Lensa by Prisma Labs: This app is primarily used for editing photos and adding video animation and effects. It can be a creative way to generate online profile pictures, known as “magic avatars”: You upload pictures of yourself and it reimagines you as all kinds of characters, like a mermaid or an astronaut. Like DreamStudio, Lensa also uses Stability AI’s Stable Diffusion text-to-image model. Subscriptions start at $3 a week. Lensa can be a way to generate online profile pictures.

Adobe Firefly: Adobe Firefly does a lot free of charge. You can generate images from a text description, apply styles or textures to text and edit images based on text descriptions. You can also change the background, remove objects or zoom out the image beyond what was captured. Adobe said Firefly is trained using Adobe Stock images and other data sets to respect artists’ ownership. Adobe Firefly can generate images based on text descriptions.

GrammarlyGo: GrammarlyGo, powered by its own tech and OpenAI’s GPT-3.5, can help you draft emails in a pinch by scanning your email and summarizing a reply. You can also use the tool to rephrase your wording or adjust your tone, and it learns your preferences over time. Users get 100 prompts a month free. Grammarly Premium gives users 1,000 prompts for $30 monthly, or $144 annually. 

OtterPilot: Otter.ai’s smart meeting assistant automatically handles live note-taking and action-item tracking. To use it, log into your Otter account and connect your Google or Microsoft calendars. OtterPilot then automatically joins your meetings and takes notes—even if you’re not in the meeting yourself. (Your workplace administrator might prohibit this tool.) The free version includes 300 monthly minutes of notetaking, up to 30 minutes per conversation. The $16.99-a-month Pro version is better for longer meetings. OtterPilot can automatically take notes for you if you miss a meeting—and even capture the slides.

Prime Voice AI: Prime Voice AI turns text into audio snippets, either using your actual voice or one you create using the tool’s technology. Type in the text then tweak the AI-generated voice based on ethnicity, gender and age. The voice can read whatever you want, be it a bedtime story or a newspaper article. The free plan gives 10,000 characters, and the amount resets each month. To clone your actual voice, you’ll have to subscribe, starting at $5 a month. 

Google MusicLM: In Google’s MusicLM, you can type prompts such as “Peaceful guitars playing near a campfire,” and the tool will generate multiple musical snippets that should sound something like it. You can download the track, and there’s no limit to how many songs you can create. There is a wait list, however, and you have to register for the AI Test Kitchen with your Google account. 

Duolingo’s Roleplay: French and Spanish learners can use Duolingo’s Roleplay text chatbot to practice their language skills, in themed conversations that feel like real messaging threads. When things get tough, the AI offers tips about what you should say instead. It also corrects errors and offers guidance to improve writing. The feature is available as part of the $30-a-month Duolingo Max subscription. 

Khan Academy’s Khanmigo: The OpenAI-powered chatbot is for students in need of personalized homework assistance. Its “Tutor me” mode and quiz module help with subjects including math, reading, science and history. It is most accurate for questions about major K-12 subjects but can still make mistakes. To get on the wait list, you need a Khan Academy account. You must be 18 to sign up, but you can give access to your kids. Once selected, you will be asked to donate $20 a month. 

Expedia’s in-app trip planning: Expedia’s AI assistant, also powered by ChatGPT, offers travel recommendations to book directly in the app. When a user asks the bot for lodging suggestions, it organizes them in the app’s Trips section. Just be aware: The tool is still in beta, it is only available in English, and it doesn’t have access to real-time pricing information. 

[EOP]

Flaw in the Wordle Bot

Text of Email sent to NYTGames: "As you can see in Screenshot Wordle 1, the bot said my Step 2 eliminated all but 2 words—supposedly SLYLY and SHYLY.  In fact, as you can see in Screenshots Wordle 2 and 3, there was a third word—GYPSY—which was accepted by the game. Obviously, there is a flaw in your Wordle bot’s matrix and understanding of the game. Thanks for your attention to doing whatever fix is necessary." As of the preparation of this post, the cowards have not responded. It's likely the same group of morons who can't come to grips with the Spelling Bee flaws we have brought to their attention.

PS: It is said that "gypsy" is considered an offensive term referring to the Roma. Who knew? But, then, if that's "their" excuse, they should not have accepted it as a word in step 3.

[EOP]

 

Wrinkle Free T-Shirts

Yeah, wrinkle free t-shirts cost more than regular t-shirts, but wrinkle free t-shirts are now the only t-shirts I own and will wear. This WSJ article has an informative overview of the various choices and warnings about outdated styles that should be eschewed.

[EOP]

Best Father's Day Card

There was only one of these Father's Day cards ever printed, and modesty prevents me from saying who the recipient was:

[EOP]

Daniel Ellsberg

With Daniel Ellsberg's passing, it is meet to pass on an era gone by. Only after his efforts to go to and up his chain of command failed did Ellsberg go public and, then, in stark contrast to Edward Snowden who now lives in Russia, Ellsberg turned himself in to face and accept the consequences. A man of true character and one appreciative of humor, in leaving this world, among his last words were these: "If I'd known dying was so easy, I would have done it sooner."

[EOP]

Yeti: Best Insulated Tumbler

When I'm settin out on my veranda in the summer, if I didn't have an insulated tumbler for my wine or my little ones' pop, the libations would become too warm when the thermometer hits 115 degrees or higher. That's when my insulated tumblers come in handy and the Yeti is our favorite. You can read about all the testing we did and why we recommend the Yeti in this Wirecutter review,

[EOP]

U-Shaped Window Air Conditioners

If you've ever wanted a window air conditioner but balked because of the difficulty of mounting and losing the ability to open the window, your long nightmare is over with the advent of a U-shaped air conditioner. It's all explained here. It really is a brilliant innovation.

[EOP]

Inanity of Golf Commentary

[Prefatory Note: I have not watched the US Open and will not watch men's pro golf until they turn their backs on Saudi money or Tiger Woods tees it up. I have read some golf commentary however because that does not boost their TV ad revenues or anything]

After the US Open 18-hole scoring record was broken twice on round one, the comments noted that the course had played easy because the sun had been shrouded in mist keeping the course soft and there was no wind. Fine so far. Then it went on to say that, once the wind comes up, this course will show its teeth because it plays really difficult in the wind. Oh, puhlease! Put a strong wind on any course, no matter how short or how wide the fairways or how flat the greens or how trivial the rough, and it will play difficult. Just ask a former below-scratch golfer about the 7th hole at the Makai course in Princeville--a par 3 on a cliff overlooking the ocean with wind gusts from 15 mph - 30 mph, so it was just luck to guess how far out to hit over the ocean to have the wind bring it back to dry land.

[EOP]

Update re PGA Tour/PIF-LIV

After the court closed on Friday night, the PGA Tour and PIF-LIV dismissed their respective lawsuits with prejudice. More striking perhaps, WaPo fed our post of yesterday suggesting that the PGA Tour members form a new tour to its columnists, and Sally Jenkins embraced our suggestion, writing as follows: "Today’s players should use this moment as an opportunity. Surely, the PGA Tour and LIV talent can arrive at a simple, unified consensus to stop being used by self-dealers. The players have one incredible advantage: They have an extremely small membership. They can make a move with a single flex of collective will to get out from under this ridiculous umbrella. Form a new platform and court new suitors, cleanly. Companies will line up to back them. With capital. There is no game, no asset, without them. There are no events, no tournaments, no fields, nothing to televise or sponsor. Nothing to sell. They are the game of golf. Not the cigar smokers." And in a separate column, WaPo columnist Barry Svrugla parroted the context our post had supplied that no one had really figured out an endgame to the "merger": "The deal was consecrated to secure the future of professional golf and eliminate the distraction that its bifurcation had caused. But the road to unification isn’t ending. It’s just starting. And right now, assurances about how everything will play out are guesses, not facts."

[EOP]

FDA Approves New Monovalent Covid Vaccine for This Fall

The Food and Drug Administration voted unanimously to recommend that the COVID-19 vaccine be updated to target emerging subvariants of omicron. The COVID shot that's currently available is known as a "bivalent" vaccine because it was tailored to target both the original strain of the coronavirus and the omicron subvariants that dominated last winter. But the FDA panel recommended that drugmakers abandon the bivalent design and instead move to a "monovalent" vaccine that targets only omicron subvariants. The idea is to roll out the newly formulated shots in anticipation of a possible uptick in cases this fall. The committee specifically supported targeting the subvariant XBB.1.5, which accounts for about 40% of new infections in the U.S. The new vaccine could be available by September and perhaps sooner. The good news is, if the past be prelude, I should be able to schedule my shot the day it becomes available with no wait.

[EOP]

Loyalty to Professional Sports Teams

The Phillies came to Phoenix for a 4-game series with the Diamondbacks. The games started unmercifully late (what's with this 6:40 pm starting time stuff instead of doing day games?), and the Phillies lost on Monday, their sweep of the remaining games brought joy to Phillies fans all over the world. Some Diamondback fans took umbrage that long-time Phoenix residents would support the team of their youth rather than the team that calls Arizona their home. Of course, that kind of myopic view can be explained (and perhaps even excused) because they grew up with no professional baseball team to root for, and hence are as ignorant as the snake they have adopted as a team symbol when it comes to loyalty. Put simply, as Shakespeare put it well (and we note they probably never read Shakespeare), "Loyalty is not loyalty which alters when it alteration finds." And don't get me started about how one is supposed to be part of a fan base that doesn't boo its team's supposed rookie-of-the-year star left fielder when he lets a run score because he forgot that his catch was only the second out and not the third out of the inning.

[EOP]

Overview of the Trump Lawsuits

[Prefatory Note: This is a contrarian view that echoes earlier posts. So, if you've heard enough on the topic, just skip this post]

For the moment, Trump's campaign mantra is: The DOJ, the FBI, and the coastal elites are corrupt, they have been (starting with Mueller) and continue to be coming after me (Trump), and you know they despise and look down on all of you who stand for honest government and support me. At some point, he might broaden it out to address what he's going to do to undo the harm that Biden has done both on the foreign front (starting with the Afghanistan withdrawal) and on the domestic front (inflation and interest rates like we've never seen before)--to make American great yet again. But in the meantime, it's all about his being persecuted and chased after with bogus witch hunts. Here's the problem: As the cases pile up, nothing new is revealed that wasn't suspected or believed by his detractors and dismissed by his supporters, each one adds nothing to discredit him and adds plenty to his claims victimization. If we could have one criminal trial and one conviction of something serious (like the document case or the January 6 case or especially the Georgia case for which no federal pardon is possible) before the election, then the wheels of justice, which have given new meaning to the term "turn[ing] slowly," just might be able to grind Trump exceedingly fine. But the piling on of lawsuit after lawsuit might end up helping Trump instead of hurting him.

[EOP]

PGA Tour vs. LIV/PIF: Why Skilled Litigators Are Not Loved and a PS and a Suggested End Game

The PGA Tour/PIF-LIV litigation undoubtedly was conducted by brilliant litigators. The PIF-LIV team likely was making a compelling antitrust case and the PGA Tour team was succeeding in forcing the Saudis into having to do discovery, i.e., testify and make disclosures, they really didn't want to do and make. Further, while the Saudis might not have had undue concern for their mounting legal bills, the PGA Tour's pockets were not as deep. Given the scarcity of detail as to what the "merger" would look like, it is clear the litigation ended because it was too costly and too painful for both parties. So, one must wonder whether, before the litigation got too far, either litigation team thought ahead in advising their clients where the litigation road would end, i.e., that both sides easily could lose. Specifically, as now appears to be the situation, the parties have agreed to pull back from the mutually assured destructive litigation path they were on, but with no clue as to how to resolve their differences, while incenting the DOJ to take a stance that no "merger" of any kind is going to proceed. It's possible the parties got great legal advice at the start and ignored it. But it's as or perhaps more likely that, just like when you seek a surgeon's evaluation they will tell you how good they can do you with surgery, the lawyers told their clients how good they could do them as litigators, without thinking through or setting out the end game.

PS: Just because a client (even one who is a lawyer) is brilliant and their lawyer is brilliant and financial resources are not the issue, they can miss the big picture and the risks and come out big losers just as Clinton (with his lawyer Robert Bennett) did when they passed on the opportunity to settle with Paula Jones for a few hundred thousand dollars--despite a strong voice screaming at them to take it.

Possible End Game for PGA Tour Members: Rory and Tiger could breakaway from the PGA Tour and start their own tour, called say, PGA Majors. They would seek contracts with Augusta National, the USGA, and the Royal & Ancient, and create their own PGA Majors Championship for a fourth major, and set up another 16 tournaments each year at great courses for their members. They would have no trouble getting sponsors, and likely could get the LIV defectors to join them and even pay a premium to do so. 

[EOP]

We Asked That the Distance Golf Balls Can Go Be Reduced, and the USGA Appears to Have Listened to Us

In a post a couple of months ago, we explained that, to preserve the integrity of the classic golf courses, lengthening them was not the answer. Instead, the answer was to modify the golf to not travel as far as it does. As this failing NYT article explains, the USGA listened to us.

[EOP]

Your Honor (2020-23 TV Series on Hulu)

Your Honor is not your everyday story, but then again, Bryan Cranston is not your everyday actor. It tells the story of a judge who must confront his convictions when his son is involved in a hit-and-run that embroils an organized-crime family. I'm not sure how it lasts 2 seasons, but the first two episodes are quite gripping and the twists and turns will hold your attention. The crime boss is played by the same actor who plays the evil Sackler in Dopesick.

[EOP]

Two Related Quirks in the Daily Online Spelling Bee

Quirk 1: You type in a word, and up comes "Not on Our Word List," and then, the next day, when you look at the answers that word is there. We've brought it to their attention, but they're arrogant and stubborn idiots who refuse to acknowledge the problem or fix it.

Quirk 2: Assume you have every word but one 5-letter word to get the QB. You type in a word (on Thursday, say "bubba") and it is rejected, and you type it in several more times, and each time it is rejected. You turn off your computer and make a trip to the market (to get some sushi, lox, bagels, bananas, cherry tomatoes, brioche buns) and, upon your return, you turn on your computer, and type in bubba and, shazam, it accepts the word and you've gotten the QB. One semi-loyal reader suggests re-booting every time the SB rejects a word you know is a word. I fear to say he's a bit touched in the head, but one has to say, please, if you know such a person, act like you're laughing with him and not at him.

PS: The SB used to say "Not a Word." We brought to their attention that they were rejecting even simple, common words incorrectly. Rather than update their dictionary because they still reject simple, common words, they changed the rejection notice to read "Not on Our Word List."

[EOP]

A Lesson Based on a Short Bio on Trump's Judge

Short Bio: Here is a little background on Judge Cannon, the judge assigned to Trump's document prosecution case: Born in Columbia in 1981, graduated from Duke and University of Michigan Law School, associate at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, Assistant U.S. Attorney as a prosecutor and appellate lawyer.

Lesson: Her handling of Trump's request for a special master earlier in the document case was so egregiously off on the law that the 11th Circuit, which is hardly a liberal circuit, reversed and rebuked her on appeal. Whether her rulings were the product of stupidity or undue favoritism myopia really doesn't matter. The lesson is that one can have a stellar short bio and have no business being on the federal bench or anywhere near the legal system. In short, do not be blinded by bios--they too often hide rather than confirm the person's character and abilities.

[EOP]

Turning Gifts Into Annuities

If you have an IRA, you can earn money for life with substantial tax benefits by giving a portion of the IRA to colleges or other charities from which you will get an annuity. The IRA withdrawal does not count as income, and it can count toward the RMD, and then you get a minimum 5% annually of income taxed as ordinary income. There are some special rules and restrictions, so check with your accountant or financial advisor.

[EOP]

Plea re Palms Mediterranean (Phoenix Restaurant)

We have recommended the Palms Mediterranean on N. 12th Street just South of Northern Avenue before. Having eaten or done take out several times since, we want to double-down on that recommendation and beg you to eat or do takeout from there. The food is delicious, the portions are large, the menu is plentiful, and the prices are low. Our concern is that, having been there at lunch time, we fear they aren't attracting enough business to stay in business. And that would be a huge loss for the Phoenix restaurant scene in general and for lovers of Mediterranean food in particular. So, please, if you live in Phoenix, go and eat there or do take out or, even better, go and eat there and then order something else to take home with you. If you don't live in Phoenix, please visit and eat there and do take out. Thank you.

[EOP]

Dopesick (2021 Mini-Series on Hulu)

I've watched just the first episode of Dopesick, and won't get back to the series for a while, but based on the first episode, it is totally riveting and chilling, with terrific acting by Michael Keaton and everyone else in the cast. It is the story of the slimy, greedy, disgusting Sackler family and Purdue Pharma in their outrageous pushing of Oxycontin, with the help of the FDA. They make the Roys (from Succession) look like moral saints. The evil Sackler is played by the same actor as the crime boss in Your Honor.

[EOP]

PS re White House Plumbers (2023 Mini-Series on HBO Max)

This mini-series is far better than one might think based on my review in a post a few days ago. The first couple of episodes highlight the ineptitude of the Plumbers and lead you to think this is a series devoted to scenes and lines and get-ups that are a hoot, and it is certainly filled with both. But it's much more as it gets serious and dark and focuses on the relationship of two men (Hunt and Gordon) and Hunt's family life that draws you in and holds your attention. The tone of the last two episodes is where it turns much darker and how much is true at the fringes is anyone's guess, but it is riveting to say the least. In several ways, this is a more compelling telling of the Watergate story than was All the President's Men. I'm not sure my take away from the series syncs with the semi-loyal reader who recommended it, but I'm certainly glad for the recommendation for otherwise I likely would not have watched it, and that would have been my big loss.

[EOP]

The Republicans Have Figured Out How to Defend and Condemn Trump

The Republicans running to be Trump's pick for vice-president as well as those in solid Trump districts don't mention his document conduct. Instead, they slam the "politicization and corruption" of the FBI and Justice Department for their relentless (Javertian) persecution of Trump. The Republicans who are running against Trump for the presidential nomination, and other Republicans trying to dress themselves up as persons of conscience and character, chastise his handling of the documents but likewise slam the "politicization and corruption" of the FBI and DOJ. In so doing, they are holding themselves out as the protectors of democracy from the deep state and corrupt federal government. Any sane person looks at the indictment and and the Republicans' reactions to it and sees the latest frontal assault on our democracy. So, here we are: Both sides, with a chasm and reality separating them, say their mission is to defend democracy, but their respective views of what democracy looks like could not be more diametrically opposed.

PS: The Republican position of duality in characterizing Trump's conduct as criminal but the prosecution as improperly political and flawed is not a new concept in American jurisprudence. There are many contexts in which liberal, right-minded, smart, caring, thoughtful, and insightful people say that a person's conviction, or the penalty imposed for the conviction, as justified as they might be on the facts of that one case, should not stand because of the inherent structural bias against a class of defendants similarly situated.

[EOP]

Put the Butler in Custody

Text of email letter to the failing NYT: "It is understandable that no request was made to put Trump in custody pending trial. But his indicted co-conspirator (Walt Nauta) was not a former president and persons charged with similar crimes (e.g., most recently, Jack Teixeira) often are held in custody pending trial. Particularly given that the arraignment judge has ordered Trump and Nauta not to discuss the case, it would seem appropriate to put Nauta in custody pending trial. Not only would it ensure compliance with the judge’s “no discussion” order and avoid any possible flight risk, it might give Trump some incentive not to seek an undue delay of the trial."

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High Priced Luxury Sheets

If you think it is not worth it to move up from sheets costing $200 to sheets costing $1,000, you have no idea what you're missing. Don't trust me. Trust  Wirecutter. I wouldn't sleep on any sheets other than these:

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Correction re Earlier Post on Dishwashers

An earlier post warned against putting things in dishwashers and taking prophylactic weekly action to keep your pipes cleared out by swooshing your dishwasher. My bad. All references to dishwashers should have read and been understood to mean disposals, not dishwashers. We apologize for any inconvenience or confusion.

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HBO Max Lagging Fixes

HBO Max seems to experience more issues of lagging and buffering than the other major streaming services. This article has a series of suggestions for fixing the problem. Once again, re-booting, which in this circumstance means signing out of the device you are on and signing back in again, will often solve the problem. Also, pausing the program and doing some chores or taking a shower and then coming back and resuming the program might work as well.

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Tip If You Have a 5G Phone

Other than being able to download a movie in seconds, 5G for personal cellphones really doesn't enhance your cellphone experience. What it might do, however, is drain your battery faster. So, you might try turning off 5G on your phone and see if you notice any slowing down of any function (you almost assuredly will not) and any slowing down of your battery's draining (you almost assuredly will).

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Your Dishwasher as Your Friend

If you live in an older house with older pipes, be very careful what you put in the dishwasher .... the less the better and certain things (e.g., egg shells) are totally taboo. Further, it is a good idea, and helpful to keeping your pipes clean, to fill the sink once a week and then emptying it by running a good swoosh through the dishwasher. 

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Relief Pitcher Games

Some baseball observers have wondered whether it might be better to dispense with starting pitchers and just go with relief pitchers. Their view is based on the notion that, under that scenario, the batters would not be seeing the same pitcher twice. There is no need to speculate in that regard because the experience of  "relief pitcher games," that is, games where no starting pitcher is available, are very difficult for that team. The reason is that, when so many pitchers are appearing in the game, there is an inordinately high chance that one or more will have a bad outing. 

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White House Plumbers (2023 Mini-Series on HBO Max)

If it might be appealing to you to return to a simpler place in time, where political crooks went to jail, White House Plumbers is for you. Also, if you are willing to accept reality no matter how inept or bizarre it is, you might laugh out loud at scene after scene as one loyal reader does or you might be creeped out (but in a good way) as others are.

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Overview and Recommendation re Microwaves

As this Wirecutter article explains, there is no reason to spend $300 for a countertop microwave when a $150 model will do you just as good. As to those lower price models, the article has three recommendations.

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Recommended Toaster

This is Wirecutter's recommended toaster ($30 at Amazon). Fortunately, it also comes in black and in a 4-slot model.

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Discounts on EV Chargers From SRP

If you need a home charger for your EV, or you think you might be buying an EV some day and then might  want a home charger, you might consider the discount pricing that seems to be available from SRP. It looks like it's a half-off sale.

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Trump's Running Mate in 2024

There are two front-runners to be Trump's running mate in 2024: Nikki Haley and Kari Lake. Haley's comments on the Trump document indictment were as follows: ""This is not how justice should be pursued in our country. The American people are exhausted by the prosecutorial overreach, double standards, and vendetta politics. It’s time to move beyond the endless drama and distractions." She clearly doesn't get it. Here's what Lake said to a roaring Republican convention in Georgia: "If you want to get to President Trump, you're going to have to go through me, and 75 million Americans just like me. And most of us are card-carrying members of the NRA. That's not a threat, that's a public service announcement." Whom do you think Trump chooses to be his vice-president?

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Thank You for Stopping Your Intellectual Property Theft

We have long railed against illegal and unethical password sharing. While our pleas have fallen on deaf ears, in May, Netflix did start cracking down. As a result, Netflix saw its biggest subscriber boost in its history and its stock price soared like an eagle.

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Why Strikes/Balls Ratio Is Meaningless

In an effort to fill the screen with stats, when you watch a baseball game, you will often see a box put up showing the number of strikes vs. balls thrown by a pitcher. Here's the problem: A pitcher cannot throw more than 4 balls to any batter. But the pitcher can throw an infinite number of strikes to any batter, i.e., as long as the batter keeps fouling off pitches, they are considered strikes. Richie Ashburn was known to hit 18 or more foul balls in any given at bat.

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Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken just opened in what used to be the only Indian food restaurant in North Central Phoenix (at 4523 N. 16th Street). I have not eaten there but, given that it's world famous and looking at its menu, I will certainly give it a try.

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Gifting After a Certain Age

Everyone reaches a certain age where gifts are not as appreciated as they were say at one's first remembered birthday party at age 4. This puts a fine point on the point:

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Note to Loyal Readers

I do not control delivery of the daily emails, but I have a good relationship with the support team of the company that does, and they are very responsive when problems are brought to their attention. The only way I know if there is a glitch that results in the daily email not being delivered to you is if you let me know, and then I will alert the support team, who generally are very good at quickly straightening it all out. Thanks.

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2024 Presidential Race: Time to Get Real

Not surprisingly, the Republicans (including the MAGA Republicans and the Republicans running for president) are circling their wagons to protect Trump. As Trump and they see it, the document indictment is just the latest effort of "the corrupt Biden administration and DOJ and FBI that have been out to get him since day one." Hence, the 2024 presidential race is firming up to be the culmination of the split in this country along the fault lines that Trump tapped into in 2016: The government (and the Biden administration) is here to make America better or is here to protect the coastal elites and is coming after you. In that context, anyone who thinks the Trump document indictment hurts him is smoking something funny. He was running low on cash until the indictment came down, and he needed a theme beyond the big steal of the 2020 election. In reality, Biden is the Democrat least likely to beat Trump or even any of the announced Republican candidates.

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Prediction re the So-Called "Merger" of the PGA Tour and LIV/PIF

What is now styled a "memorandum of an agreement framework," which calls for PIF (the Saudis) to fund the PGA Tour and all litigation to end, will not become a done deal. If PIF/LIV have decided that subjecting their Saudi principals to discovery and testifying is just not worth it, LIV might just go away and PIF might be willing to be nothing more than a minority investor. But, if anyone thinks what was announced on Tuesday is going to come into fruition, my prediction is it will not. What the unraveling might look like, I don't know, but the forces opposing the deal will overwhelm it. It will not take much of a ratings drop to have major corporate sponsors walk away; Monahan will be gone soon leaving the PGA Tour without someone to steer the PGA Tour ship through the stormy waters; the shameless PGA Tour members will make demands of retribution from defecting members that will not be met; the shamelessly greedy PGA Tour members will make demands to be compensated for "doing the right thing in sticking by the PGA Tour" (yeah, it would never occur to them to do the right thing because it's the right thing to do); the Saudis will never give any assurances that, once it is their money keeping the PGA Tour afloat, that they will not seek a controlling stake on the PGA Tour board; and they will discover that, as painful as their private litigation was--so painful that dropping that litigation likely was the prime motivator for the deal--the DOJ lawsuit is going to be more painful, and if a preliminary injunction is sought and issues, goodbye "merger" and soon thereafter goodbye PGA.

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Gmail Templates

In addition to signatures and auto-responses, Gmail's template feature can save you time if you find yourself typing anew the same email text over and over and over again. To turn it on and use it, go to Settings/All Settings/Advanced, and you will see the Template toggle.

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PS re Tip Screens

The New Yorker is a loyal reader and, after seeing our recent post on tip screens, published this:

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