Wolfs (2024 Movie on Apple TV+)

It might not be bad if one can last through it, but it's boring, such that some will give up after 10 minutes and the remainder of the audience will give up a few minutes later.

[EOP]

The 2024-25 NFL Season

As if Trump, hurricanes, plumbing problems, and Middle-East wars weren't reason enough to hide under the bed, there is no reason to continue watching or take any joy from the current NFL season. As one loyal reader put it, the Eagles have picked up where they left off last season (losing the last 4 games of the regular season). Actually, it's worse. The coach has shown himself to be incompetent and perhaps the worst play caller ever. The Eagles are the only team not to have scored in the first quarter yet. Wait, there's more: It looks like the dreaded Washington Commanders (a team that ditched its abominable name for one of the classiest name in professional football (WFC) and then dropped that for the plebeian name, Commanders), with an ex-ASU quarterback and an ex Phoenix Cardinal offensive coordinator, is going to win the NL East title, the result of which will be the unleashing of crowing ridicule by an occasional reader (to whom I dedicate the length of this sentence), as Trump would say, like no one has ever seen.  In short, when it comes to this season of pro football, turn out the lights, the party's over.

[EOP]

Best Counter-Top Combo Air Fryer Toaster Ove: The Breville Joule Oven Pro

As this bon appetit article and for the home article explain, the Breville Joule Oven Pro is the absolute best of breed. What makes it so great is how smart it is, taking all the guess-work out of meal prep. It cost about $100-150 more than other such units, but none of them have the smart features or the Breville quality or name.

[EOP]

Perplexing Cost Analysis

Some businesses (call them Xs) will charge you 3% if you pay by credit card, some businesses (call them Ys) will not so charge you, and some businesses (call them Zs) will give you a 3% discount if you pay with cash. One question is when X and Y charge you the same for the same service, has X actually built in an extra 3% to cover the cost should you pay by credit card? Clearly, there are numerous other scenarios where it is difficult if not impossible to understand whether you're getting the best deal. And it gets even more complicated where, unlike with products, you might not be able to tell for sure whether you might be paying more for better service (such as a complicated plumbing problem). Compared to the vagaries of Pareto optimal pricing, this cost analysis stuff really makes your head explode.

[EOP]

Driver's License Renewal in Arizona

You can now renew your driver's license in Arizona on the AZ MVD website with no written test, no vision test, and no driving test, and renew your voter registration and preference for mail-in voting at the same time. It takes about 3 minutes and costs $25.

[EOP]

His Three Daughters (2023 Movie on Netflix)

If you like a blend of Harold Pinter dystopia and My Dinner With Andre dialogue, His Three Daughters is the movie for you. It paints a portrait of family dynamics that follows three estranged sisters as they converge in a New York apartment to care for their dying father and try to mend their own broken relationship with one another.

[EOP]

Tips to Make Your Phone Last Longer

From the NYT:

1. Keep phones away from undue heat or cold. Heat is more dangerous than cold.

2. Do not charge to 100%. Most phones will let you set an 85% charge cap.

3. Keep the software updated.

4. Keep it clean. Not just the screen but, more importantly, the charging port. If you use wireless charging, or even if you don't, plug the charging port to keep dust out.

5. Offload as much music, photos, and videos as possible, especially when stored in text messages.

[EOP]

Long-Term Threat to Democracy in U.S.

Trump won the presidency in 2016 even though 3 million more people voted for Clinton. Biden squeaked by in 2020 even while 7 million more people voted for him. Harris looks to have more than 10 million people vote for her over Trump but could still lose the election. Thank you Founding Fathers for developing a system that might bind us to the tyranny of a cult minority for whom facts, science, cultural norms, tradition, reason, and freedom have no meaning or a meaning perverted beyond recognition.

[EOP]

What To Do If Your Gmail Inbox Is Empty

Some of us diligently keep our Gmail inboxes empty. Others don't. But, it has been known where one goes to sleep with a full Gmail inbox of emails and wakes up and nothing, nada, zilch, zero--a totally empty inbox. It could have been a cyber-attack, but more likely it was not. Here are four things to try to recover the missing emails:

1. Check to see if the emails in question have been archived, deleted or marked as spam. If you know any information about the missing email, such as subject or even content, you can search through all your Gmail including for those messages not in your inbox. You can use “in:anywhere” as a search operator to look for the email everywhere.

2. Check to see if the emails have been filtered. You may have created a filter that is set to automatically archive or delete emails that match the configured criteria. At the top right of your Gmail window click on Settings|See All Settings|Filters And Blocked Addresses.

3. Check to see if your emails are being forwarded to another account. This is an often overlooked cause for unexpected missing messages, as it’s possible to configure Gmail to automatically archive or delete your emails after they have been forwarded. Click on Settings|See All Settings|Forwarding and POP/IMAP. Google warns that if emails are being forwarded to an unrecognized address, your account may have been compromised. You should immediately disable the forwarding rule and then take a Google account security check-up for the next steps.

4. Finally, because such things can easily be overlooked, if you read your Gmail through a different email client, check your settings there to see if you have configured the app to delete messages from the Gmail server once delivered to the client you use. This is pretty much a repeat of the last check, but it’s worth bearing in mind anyway.

[EOP]

New European Travel Rules for 2025 (ETIAS)

If you are planning to travel to Europe next year, you will have to have ETIAS travel authorization before you can go to or get into any of these countries:  Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

[EOP]

Divorce (2024 Movie on Netflix)

If you like Polish humor (not Polish jokes, Polish humor), Divorce just might be your Belvedere or Chopin Potato. It's a whimsical, and in many parts a touching, story about a divorced couple (one of whom has remarried and the other is engaged to be married) looking for the Catholic Church to dissolve their marriage of 20 years ago so that the ex-husband and his fiance can be married in the church. If you've ever been married to a Polish woman, or divorced from one, this film will be especially poignant. As far out as the plot might seem (and it's not (see, e.g., a similar issue with Ghets)), the people are real and endearing, their moments ring true, and the takes on the church and the law are razor sharp. All the performances are first-rate, but Magdalena Poplawska's and Wojciech Mecwaldowski's are truly special as they draw the audience to them.

[EOP]

Two Ways to Save Gmails

Gmails can be saved as PDFs or as emails. Saving as PDFs will not preserve the links in the original email (you can see them but they won't work as links) or the ability to reply or forward directly (you can do so only as an attachment). Saving as emails will preserve the links and allow for replying and forwarding. To save as PDF, open the gmail, click on the three dots, and click on Print/Save, and choose where you want to save it. To save as an email, open the gmail, click on the three dots, and click on download, and choose where you want to save it.

[EOP]

Two Rental Car Tips

1. Opt for Compact Cars: On the occasions where you don't need an SUV, RV, or ORV and a simple sedan will do, it usually pays to reserve a compact (i.e., the lowest priced sedan) because, in all likelihood, they will have no compacts when you check-in. Then, assuming they have held the reservation which they often don't know how to do, they will upgrade you to a larger sedan at no additional cost.  

2. Fill the Tank Before Returning the Car: In the olden days, they used to push you to take an option where they would fill the car with gas for a fixed amount, claiming you'd save money upon returning the car empty. They don't push that any more, and actually, seem not to push any of the extras, preferring instead to get you on your way as quickly as possible, and serve as many customers as possible as quickly as possible. The default gas plan is that, if the car is not returned full, they will charge you to fill it, and that will be at a per-gallon rate higher than you would pay on the street. So, fill 'er up  before turning the car back in.

[EOP]

Costco for Bedding

This WSJ article makes a strong case for considering Costco as the go-to place for bedding. Costco satisfies in equal measure my Midwestern appetite for thrift and my background as a hairsplitting luxury travel writer. Made of California-grown Pima cotton, Costco’s house-brand sheets do indeed feel lotion-like, and become more so with each wash. In-store, where prices are typically lower than the website, you can pick up a 6-piece king set (including four pillowcases) for only $80. As a point of comparison, luxury linen brand Matouk demands $88 for a lone pair of pillowcases at 350 thread count.

[EOP]

My Secret to a Better Lasagna

Lasagna is a labor of love. A good lasagna is a project — one well-worth the effort, in my opinion, but a project nonetheless. There are a whole bunch of choices to make (e.g., beef vs. vegetarian) but most lasagnas almost certainly have one key ingredient in common: ricotta cheese, which adds a backbone of creaminess that balances out the acidity of the tomato sauce, while also having a mild-enough flavor that acts as a blank canvas for the other flavors in the cheesy layers of this classic casserole. But what if I told you there was a better way? A cheese that is even better suited to lasagna than classic ricotta? Well, hold onto your seats. It’s cottage cheese! Not kidding! Try it! You'll never go back to ricotta.

[EOP]

The Trick to Great Steaks: Rest and Flash

If I'm grilling steaks or chops outdoors at home, I use the same approach that great steak houses use: I cook the meat, then let it rest. Just before serving, I flash it on the hottest fire I can muster for about 15 seconds per side. If I'm cooking indoors, I sear the steak in hot fat, then let the meat rest on a wire rack set in a rimmed baking sheet. Then, just before serving, I reheat the fat and juices left over in the skillet until they're smoking-hot and pour them right over the steaks—you'll see them sizzle and sputter as they crisp up. This is similar to the restaurant hot-oven flash, but it works even better: Hot fat is a more efficient means of heat transfer than hot air, which means faster crisping with less chance of overcooking. It also adds a final shot of flavor to the surface of the steak. This technique works with larger roasts as well, though, for best results, I suggest heating up some fresh oil or butter with some aromatics, like thyme or shallots, in a skillet until it's sizzling hot. That's because the drippings from roasts can often be too watery to effectively crisp the crust.

[EOP]

EV Recommendation: Lucid Sapphire

This WSJ article explains why the Lucid Sapphire "blows the doors off the competition," and not just because of its looks, also because of its performance. I can say, without hesitation, buying this car was the best $250,000 I've ever spent.

[EOP]

Queen Bees (2021 Movie on Netflix)

Queen Bees is the story of an independent widow who moves into a senior community and discovers that, just like high school, it is full of cliques and flirtatious suitors. It's a forgettable movie. If you saw it a couple of years ago, you will not remember having seen it so you might start watching it again. If that happens, you might find the aging actors so depressing to watch that you'll stop watching for the second time even sooner than you stopped the first time.

[EOP]

Update Chrome to Protect Against Security Warnings

If you're running Chrome on Windows, Android, or Mac, please update (to V129.0.668/70/71) asap to protect against recently discovered severe security vulnerabilities. Be sure to restart Chrome after doing so otherwise the update will not take effect.

[EOP]

Maintaining Weight Loss

Readers know how relatively easy it is to lose weight by following the EDC Blog diet--which is premised on the principle that not being hungry is the key. As it turns out, after one hits one's goal, it appears just as easy to maintain the weight loss. Excuse the long sentence: As long as one stays with the blog's diet prescription of a fruit and yogurt breakfast, salad and salmon lunch, 2-handfuls of nuts, apple slices for dessert at dinner, and snacking as much as one wants (so that between meal hunger is a non-issue) as long as the snacks are limited to celery, carrots, radishes, and broccoli stems kept on hand in the refrigerator, it is permissible to add a "forbidden" food at dinner, such as a potato or bread or pizza slice or pasta or even a negroni or other booze. This seems to work because, without introducing the "forbidden" element, one might just keep losing weight.

[EOP]

Prediction re Trump NY Fraud Case and Other State Cases

This blog never understood the NY civil fraud case against Trump given the lack of apparent injury to anyone. Apparently, either does the NY  appellate court as this WSJ article reports. We remain confident in our remaining predictions on the state criminal cases, namely, the Georgia case will never come to trial given how badly it was botched by the prosecutor and the NY so-called election case will be reversed on appeal based on the Supremacy Clause.

[EOP]

Southwest Airlines Will Be Joining Its Competitors' Seating and Fees Practices

Although it won't go into effect until 2026 and checking baggage will still be free, Southwest will be going to assigned seating and extra fees for preferred seating, and different classes of seating. In the meantime, for quite a while, their prices have more often than not been higher than American's at least for flights originating in Phoenix, so no one flies them any more any how.

[EOP]

Advantages of All Wheel Drive (AWD)

[Prefatory Note: There's no reason for most people, if anyone, to pay the extra it costs for AWD. But, if you're buying a car in short supply (like the 2024-25 Prius), you might be willing to do so even though it makes you sick to have done so long after the purchase. The only consolation is that there are some advantages to AWD, which are listed here. It's not to say any of this is any real consolation, but it is what it is]

1. Better traction: AWD vehicles have better traction in a variety of driving conditions, especially in wet or snowy conditions. This is because AWD vehicles send torque to all four wheels, which provides more grip and reduces the likelihood of wheel slip. 

2. Improved stability: AWD vehicles are more stable and have a reduced risk of skids and rollovers. 

3. Better acceleration: AWD vehicles can accelerate better than front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive vehicles in slippery conditions. 

4. Better towing capacity: AWD vehicles have better traction and more evenly distributed weight, which results in a stronger towing capacity. [Note: Like who tows anything?]

5. Improved off-road capability: AWD vehicles perform better than other vehicles on uneven terrain. [Note: Like who anything but rentals on uneven terrain?]

6. Peace of mind: AWD vehicles can provide peace of mind in bad weather conditions. 

[EOP]

Free Home Covid Tests Available Now

Four  Free Covid tests are now available and can be ordered online.

[EOP]

Woman in Gold (2015 Movie on Netflix)

Okay, Woman in Gold is a feel-good, post-Holocaust movie that pulls all the heartstrings that might be pulled. Still, it's wonderful and, all the more so because it's a true story. It chronicles the travails of an octogenarian Jewish refugee, and her young lawyer, as they take on the Austrian government to recover artwork she believes rightfully belongs to her family. Ryan Reynolds turns in a surprisingly admirable performance in a role you would not think he could pull off, but he does. At the same time, Helen Mirren turns in an absolutely fabulous SAG-nominated best acting performance ... taking acting to its pinnacle (so much so that Meryl Streep and even more so Al Pacino could learn a lot watching her performance).

[EOP]

Interest Free Loans on Home Repair/Improvement Projects

Say you're hit with an unforeseen, costly, home repair project. You eschew taking on debt of any kind but would be happy not to pay the entire cost in one lump sum cash payment. Many, if not most, home repair/improvement companies will offer (and if they don't offer, just ask for) an interest-free payment option that works like this: They have a relationship with a third-party lender which will lend you the money, and there is no interest or pre-payment penalty if paid off within one year. I assume the incentive for the lender is that they must find that many people intending to go the early-payoff/no-interest route change their mind and end up with an actual interest-bearing loan. Hence, it would be wise to know ahead of time what the interest rate would be in that circumstance.

[EOP] 

The Basics to Look For When Buying Travel Luggage

[These tips were related to me by a flight attendant]

1. Go with a hard-shell instead of a soft cover. Soft cover luggage will not prevent leakage out or leakage in from other traveler's luggage or from external sources. 

2. Go with 4-wheel models rather than 2-wheel models. The 4-wheel models make for easier rolling and enhance the chance that they will not be thrown around as much by baggage handlers.

3. Go with dark rather than light colors, because dark colors hide scratches and other blemishes better.

[EOP] 

Upgraded Seats on Budget Airlines

Budget airlines like Frontier and Sprint are looking to woo existing customers to pay more for upgraded seats and to woo new customers who otherwise shun budget airlines. This WSJ article gives an overview of what you might expect to get or not get if you opt for an upgraded seat on a budget airline.

[EOP]

How Do You Know (2010 Movie on Netflix)

As all readers know, I always give films a fair chance, particularly movies where, with the likes of Paul Rudd and Reese Witherspoon, my hopes soar like a hawk. Not only did I give this film a fair chance, I gave it much more as I suffered through the first 10 minutes and kept at it for another 5 minutes. It is difficult to determine whether the script or the acting or their noxious combination is the main culprit for putting me through such an insufferable experience. Shame on the writers and shame on the actors.

[EOP]

When to Replace Your Router

This cnet article alerts you to the telltale signs that it's time to replace your router, but also what you might try to solve any issue before upgrading to a new router.

[EOP]

Controlling OneDrive Storage

This ZDNet article explains how Microsoft's OneDrive takes over the storage of files by default, and how you can "clean up the mess" when that happens.

[EOP]

Staying Safe re Octo2 Banking Trojan

Although to date it's seen only in Europe, but likely will be appearing in the U.S. (unless a Trump tariff can keep it out (per Trump, tariffs are the cure for everything)), what makes Octo2 so dangerous is that it’s currently being distributed in malicious versions of popular apps including Google Chrome and NordVPN. Once your phone is infected with this malware, not only can hackers completely take it over but they can also perform fraudulent transactions right from the device itself. This helps the hackers behind this campaign avoid being detected by banks and other financial institutions. This Tom's Guide article  tells you everything you need to know about this new version of Octo 2 including how it has managed to infiltrate legitimate apps along with some tips on how to stay safe from Android malware. 

[EOP]

Quirk in American Airlines Online Pricing

There are some trips where it is better to make reservations for places to stay (like small towns on the Oregon coast) and air flights far ahead. With American Airlines, however, fares are not posted for flights more than 11 months and a few days in the future. But here's the real kicker: The first day flights are released for will be at prices that are at four times the price that will be available the second day the flight is released for. And these far-ahead flights (especially premium (first class/business class) seats) might be priced at the lowest price you will see from then on. And, of course, you can use the "refundable" tactic the blog has explained in earlier posts.

[EOP]

National League East 2024 Champions

 

[EOP]

Google Maps Update: Delay Detection and Better Lane Guidance

Delay Detection: We've mentioned this before but it's important and useful so we're mentioning it again. You should use Google Maps even if your traveling a route your travel everyday and know by heart. Why? Because there could be a problem on the way (e.g., an accident, construction, etc.) that will delay you that would have been avoided had you turned on Google Maps and been warned and re-routed. Having learned this lesson the hard way, I know longer am harassed for turning on Google Maps even when everyone in the car knows how to get where we're going.

Better Land Guidance: Google Maps will now show you the lanes available on the road you're taking and, more import, will guide you into the proper lane for exiting or turning.

[EOP]

Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up a Wi-Fi Network

This How-to-Geek article sets out the mistakes that easily can be avoided when setting up a wi-fi network.

[EOP]

Warning re Copy and Paste Bug

This Express article explains the very real danger that is lurking for Windows 10 and 11 users from fake, but not easily seen as fake, pop-up windows such as CAPTCHAs.

[EOP]

Travel Coffee Maker

One of the horrors of traveling is waking up in the morning and there's no way to have an immediate cup of coffee. Thanks to Palmpress, those days are over. This palm-sized device weighs just 8.6 ounces and can make up to 8 ounces of coffee at a time. The BPA-free silicone design expands into a funnel shape. After twisting off the lid at the top, you simply pour your coffee grounds up to the indicated fill line inside. You follow that with hot water, which also has a dedicated fill line, and screw the lid back on. After letting the coffee brew for at least three minutes, you flip the Palmpress upside-down — a reusable stainless steel filter is built into the lid — and allow the coffee to pour into your cup.

[EOP]

What Those Bars in the Upper Right Corner Mean and Don't Mean

The upper right corner of your cellphone will show bars and the purported connection (e.g., 4G or 5G). As this WaPo newsletter explains, when it comes to 5G and the number of bars, all is not what it seems to be.

[EOP] 

The Road to Tesla's FSD

This Torque News story chronicles the story of Elon Musk's and Tesla's bumpy road to FSD availability and its pricing changes along the way. It's a hoot.

[EOP]

Tip on American Airlines Fares

On many flights, American Airlines (and perhaps other airlines) has a stated lowest price at one end and a premium (first/business class) price at the other. If you choose the lowest price option but then opt for a preferred seat and other amenities, even though you remain stuck in economy class, your ticket might cost just a few dollars less than the price of a premium ticket, which will have even more benefits (e.g., refundability, boarding priority, no charge for checked luggage, etc.) besides just a closer restroom and more comfortable seat.

[EOP]

Betting Odds vs Polls: Which Is the Better Predictor

Readers of this blog understand my deep skepticism when it comes to presidential polling. That skepticism based on the inability to actually poll those likely to vote (far more respondents will say they intend to vote when they actually won't than respondents who honestly say they won't vote) and to get representative likely voter samples of the young and minorities), and hence preference polls can be substantially wrong in predicting turnout, which will drive the result. This Forbes article explains why betting odds might be a better predictor than polls. [Note: If the article doesn't open here or on the blog site itself, put "2024 presidential election betting odds markets" into The Google (without the quote marks)]

[EOP]

Watching the Eagles: Not For the Faint of Heart

The Eagles' coach, Nick Sirianni, is known for two things: the tush push and going for a first down when the obvious play is to kick a field goal. The Eagles' loss to the Falcons in Week 2 was in large due to not taking the field goal, as a result of which he came under a totally appropriate blistering attack. Then in Week 3 against the Saints, Sirianni did it again. Although it came close, it did not cost the Eagles the game. But it made clear that Sirianni is not fit to be coach, and under him, this team is destined to have a disappointing season. At the very least, watching them is not fun.

[EOP] 

Further PS re Billionaire Island (6-Part Series on Netflix)

We've recommended Billionaire Island (a Succession-style story revolving around a family running the salmon industry in Norway) before and now, having seen the last episode, we recommend it even more highly. In addition to previous comments, it is the one series where, largely because of the music, you won't skip the introductory credit montage. And the final episode does a really good job of both wrapping things up and setting just the right amount of bait to salivate you for the next season, which we hope will be out soon. 

[EOP]

Router Antennae: Placement and Direction

This XDA article explains why the antennae on your router matter, and the direction you should point them in.

[EOP]

Induction Cooktops

We are swapping out  our gas stove-top for an induction stove-top, and as this TCD article explains, we'll be getting a federal tax credit in doing so, the result of which might be it will cost us nothing. The many benefits of induction cooktops are leading to a surge in their popularity in the United States. Users love their energy efficiency, precision cooking, and safety features. Traditional electric stoves and gas ranges heat up the surface of the appliance, which then heats the pot or pan on top of it. This process is safer and more energy-efficient. Induction stoves are up to three times more efficient than gas stoves, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, and about 10% more efficient than other electric stoves, helping to cut down energy bills. Induction stoves heat up quickly and can maintain consistent temperatures, helping home chefs make their meals faster and with more precision. Safety-wise, because induction cooking heats cookware instead of the stove surface, users are much less likely to burn themselves on a hot stove. Induction cooking also cuts down on methane pollution. Gas stoves leak the dangerous gas into your home, which can exacerbate asthma inside your house and contribute to rising temperatures worldwide. Induction stoves are safer for you and the environment. 

[EOP]

How to Clean Your Coffee Maker With Baking Soda

Your coffee maker, like any other kitchen equipment, requires regular cleaning. We're not just talking about wiping down the exterior parts to remove smudges and dust, you also need to clean the internal parts where there's often a buildup of coffee oil and mineral deposits, especially from hard water. Luckily, you don't have to pull apart your machine to get inside for a scrub. You just need baking soda. This Chowhound article explains how to clean your coffee maker with baking soda.

[EOP]

There's No Affordable Housing Shortage in Phoenix

This past week, in addition to all the lower-priced house sales in Phoenix, there were house sales of $5.5M, $6.9M, $10.8M, $20.9M, and $32.3M (that's M as in million). Clearly, the problem in Phoenix is not a shortage of available housing. The problem is many people just need to have more money when it comes to buying a house.

[EOP]. 

Fix If Display Setting for Screen Timeout Stops Working

For some unknown reason, the options one has in Settings/Display/Screen timeout stop working, and the timeout defaults to 1 minute or even shorter. As common as this problem is, there's no  apparent fix. Yeah, there are alot of suggested fixes, but we have not found one that works. Rather than waste time looking for one, install Screen Alive. It's free and as simple as can be (just set the timeout time you want), and it overrides the phone's timeout setting (but you'll still see your chosen timeout setting where it always was in Settings/Display/Screen timeout).

[EOP]

Google Maps Problem and Fix

The latest update to Google Maps is causing many people to have problems with its not loading into Android Auto. There are two fixes: Clear the cache and data from Google Maps; or switch to Waze until Google fixes the problem. You might also try uninstalling the last update--go to Apps/Google Maps/Uninstall last update. 

[EOP]

The End of Pilots Is Coming: Waymo In the Air

As this CNN article explains, years ago, airplanes were equipped with auto-land technology that made landings much safer than landings done by pilots. Now, we are on the cusp of auto-takeoff technology  which should produce the same benefits for takeoffs. Of course, no pilot actually does anything in terms of flying the plane during flight. In sum, when it comes to transportation, it's all going to be the Waymo way.

[EOP]

How the Super Rich Live

If you think you can spot the super rich by their flashing gaudy symbols of wealth, you could not be more wrong. As this WSJ article reveals, today, especially with talk of new wealth taxes heating up on the campaign trail, gauche display is out. A subtler set of cues and signifiers is required for the super rich to mark their place on the totem pole.

[EOP]

Caution re Medicare Scams

Beware of all the calls going around for the last couple months and which will, no doubt, continue - people saying they are from Medicare or Medicare Services and asking if you have received your new Medicare cards. There are NO new Medicare cards. These are scammers trying to verify your Medicare ID number and other personal information. Medicare will never call you. There are no changes to Medicare other than the usual slight increase in the Part B premium and the Part B deductible. - which haven't been announced yet. 

[EOP]

Case Example of Deals Too Good To Be True

When it comes to investing there are great opportunities and there are deals too good to be true. This WSJ article tells a wonderful tale of one such too-good-to-be-true deal.

[EOP]

PS re Billionaire Island (Netflix Series) and Bad Monkey (Apple TV+ Series)

If you're biding time waiting to binge on the latest season of Slow Horses, Bad Monkey gets a bit boring as it goes on while Billionaire Island improves with each new episode.

[EOP] 

Phone Screen Reverts to 1 Minute or Even Shorter Timeout Timeout

Rebooting the phone doesn't seem to fix the problem. One suggested solution is to boot into recovery mode and clear the partition cache. But booting into recovery mode might not be readily possible and, even if you can do it, there might not be a clearing cache option. The only suggestion I  have is to try different timeout options, even opting for the longest timeout period available. Then be sure to turn off the display when not using the phone, because a lit display is a battery hog. There are several "screen off" apps and widgets to enable you to turn off the display with one tap.

[EOP]

Sports Combos

Basketball applauds those who complete the triple double (points, assists, rebounds), horse racing the triple crown (Kentucky Derby, Pimlico, Belmont Stakes), and baseball the triple crown (batting average, home runs, rbis). Breaking with the dual tradition of just one "club" per sport and it's being a 3-for, and with no disrespect to the person who might just have turned in the  greatest single game performance of all time (6 for 6, 3 HRs, 2 SBs, 10 RBIs), Ohtani just invented and joined what's called the "50/50 club" (home runs and steals), which no one ever heard of before. Why those two feats are yoked or elite "clubs" now involve just 2 feats, remains shrouded in mystery. But we can expect to see more "2-combos" just because that's how things work. So, look for doubles/walks, strikeouts/assists, sacrifice flies/triples, grand slams/walk-off hits and walks, and so on. In the meantime, Ohtani will be remembered as Ruth is now remembered as one of the two greatest baseball players ever. But it's names of the "singular" records in baseball that remain cherished, such as: Cy Young, Ted Williams, Cal Ripken, Jr.

[EOP]

Connecting a Cellphone's Google Maps' Audio Instructions to An Older Car

If you connect a cellphone by bluetooth to an older car, you can make and receive calls, listen to music, and hear route instructions from Google Maps. But, on some cars, if you set up your phone to make calls and listen to music, you might not be able to get Google Maps' audio instructions. It can drive you crazy and you can spend hours doing research and changing settings of all kinds trying to figure out why Google Maps' audio instructions are not coming through. Saying "Speak to me" won't fix the problem. Here's the trick: If the music connection is turned on, that might be the problem. So, take the option on the screen to disconnect the music connection, and problem solved!!!!

[EOP]

Caution re Dangerous Beds

On Thursday, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Health Canada issued a recall announcement for the Lucid brand "Platform Beds with Upholstered Square Tufted Headboards." The beds were imported from Malaysia to numerous stores across the United States by CVB Inc., located in Logan, Utah. "The recalled beds can sag, break, or collapse during use, posing fall and injury hazards to consumers," the CPSC said in its recall announcement. According to the recall announcement, there have been at least 245 reports "of the beds breaking, sagging or collapsing during use, causing 18 injuries, including contusions and bruises." The recalled beds were sold at major retailers through April 2024, according to the CPSC. Consumers may have purchased them from Amazon, Walmart, Lucid's website, and other outlets like Bed Bath & Beyond, eBay, Home Depot, Macy's, Target.com, and Wayfair. The recall announcement states that customers should "immediately stop" using the recalled products. They can then contact the company for a free replacement bed frame. The recall does not say if all "uses" of the bed are dangerous or just some "uses."

[EOP]

STR Rental Tips: How to Save Money on the Rental Fees

One of the things with vrbo and airbnb is the amount that is charged in various fees, which often makes the rental 30% higher than the charge for the rental itself. Booking.com has the highest fees, vrbo is in the middle, and airbnb is lowest. In some instances (and more than you think), an airbnb or vrbo unit might be listed for rent with a local agency, and one might save a significant amount (10% or more) booking through that local agency instead. Google can help find such a local rental group, but you also might find it by looking closely at the vrbo/airbnb listing to see who the host is. If the host is local, look to find its website which might handle the listing as well--and, if so, it generally will be at a MUCH LOWER cost because it likely will not be charging a rental fee (it's paid to be the host). Looking to see if there is a local host as opposed to a national company acting as host or an absentee owner acting as host, you also are assured of on-the-ground local support should there be a problem. They also might give you a break on payments (even if you don't ask for one), e.g., allowing for pre-payments to be spread across more installments.

[EOP]

The Endorsements Harris Needs and Should Court

As troublesome as Trump's support is given how odious he is, it is easy to understand: Like other populist, cultist "leaders," he knows how to tap into the resentment of those who feel scorned by and resentful of the elites. Therefore, getting the endorsement of experts, highly educated professionals, acclaimed accomplished persons (including those who served in the Trump administration), and the glitterati likely does little to help the Harris campaign, and might even be counterproductive. What the Harris campaign needs is the endorsement from at least some of those who are drawn to Trump's calling, namely and particularly, uneducated angry White men whom the coastal elites not only look down on, but also have never talked to. If the Harris campaign cannot do that, or at least get out there and try to do that, they’re just talking to their own choir.

[EOP]

Best Free and Paid Antivirus Software

A recent post addressed the issue whether or not anyone actually needs to be running third-party antivirus software. For those who have decided they do, this Tom's Guide article presents a comprehensive overview of its recommendations on the gamut of third-party antivirus software.

[EOP]

Passports Now Renewable Online

One can now renew their passport online. It's easy and fast--takes about 15 minutes. This WaPo article explains how to do it.

[EOP]

Prediction: Change Is Coming to NFL

The three-point innovation revolutionized basketball. Of somewhat lesser impact, but substantial nonetheless, as sure as Eli's Coming, change is coming as to how the NFL deals with field goals. The problem is this: Touchdowns are on a downward trajectory while field goals are on an upward trajectory, and longer field goals are being made with higher frequency. So, the one change you can take to the bank is that the width of the goal posts will be narrowed. If that doesn't right the ship, field goals of under 50 yards will be awarded 2 points instead of 3 and field goals of under 35 yards will be awarded 1 point instead of 3. 

[EOP]

Toward More Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Just scrambling eggs is for amateurs, and short-changes those for whom you are preparing them, especially when it is simple to MEGA (i.e., make eggs great again). The secret to fabulous scrambled eggs is to add crème fraîche. If you don’t have access to crème fraîche, use Greek yogurt or sour cream. Softened cream cheese works, too, as the key is adding something cold, creamy, and rich that doesn’t curdle in heat.

[EOP]

Zwilling Coffee Maker Drip Solved

Ever since we touted the Zwilling coffee maker, which we continue to believe is the coffee maker everyone should opt for, we have made Herculean efforts to solve the "last drop dripping on the plate" problem. As it turns out, no one at Zwilling knows the answer. But we have discovered it: Remove the filter holder before removing the carafe. We have yet to decide whether or not to inform Zwilling.

[EOP]

Do You Need a Third-Party Antivirus Program for Windows Computers?

As it turns out, there is not a clear yes-or-no answer to the question. This Wired article provides a thoughtful analysis on the matter.

[EOP]

Note re Rating Your STR Stay

If you stay at a STR, you will be able to rate and comment on it after your stay. Likewise, the STR's owner has the opportunity to rate you as a guest, which other STR owners will see when you request a rental. I'm not positive about this, but it seems to be that owners might wait to see your review before they do their review on you. However, if you defer doing your review, the owner will be "forced" to do their review of you to trigger a deadline being imposed on your doing a review of the rental, i.e., you will get an email saying that the owner has just rated you and, if you want to see it, you need to review the rental within 14 days. At that point, there's no downside in submitting a negative review which, if you had done earlier, might have prompted a negative "retaliatory" review by the owner.

[EOP]

Unbridled Arrogant Greed of PGA Tour Members

One of the stumbling blocks to a PGA Tour/LIV Golf merger is the demand by PGA Tour members that LIV golfers pay back (i.e., forfeit) some or all of the "bonuses" they got for joining LIV Golf---presumably donating that money to charity or "debiting" it against future winnings on the PGA Tour. Is anyone surprised that the PGA Tour members omit to mention, much  less take into account, the millions of more dollars the players have made because of the raised purses they are playing for in reaction to LIV Golf, and the billions of dollars that have been pumped into the PGA Tour in response to LIV Golf?

[EOP]

Duplicate Driver's License in Arizona

You can order a replacement driver's license online in Arizona through this DMV website. Best practices would say order one as a duplicate to keep in your car so you never have to worry about driving off without your license. 

[EOP]

Car Title Transfer in Arizona

More often than you would think, someone in a relationship buys a car for themself, and then gifts the car to their partner. In Arizona, as this ADOT article sets out, the change of title can be done online electronically. 

[EOP]

Simple Yet Excellent Checkbook Register App

I've been using Moneydance for years as my checkbook register to keep track of charitable deductions, medical and prescription expenses, and more. It's been great and even has the ka-ching sound. But, lately, it's gone goofy. Moneydance has no support or fixes for the problems that many are encountering. After looking for a free replacement, I gave up, and found No Frills Checkbook for $3.00. It could not be easier or simpler to use. And the support is fantastic--I had a question about saving a file and my email was answered within minutes, followed by a real-time email dialogue on several related issues. While it doesn't have the ka-ching sound, I wish I had started with No Frills Checkbook and had never started with Moneydance.

[EOP]

Canary in the Arizona Women Vote Coal Mine

The number of women registering to vote in Arizona has not increased since the Dobbs decision nor apparently in response to the constitutional measure on the Arizona ballot to protect the right to an abortion. Perhaps more troubling, Horizon hosted a debate between reps favoring that ballot measure and opposing it. No one favoring the ballot measure would agree to participate. That allowed the opposing rep to make the unchallenged case that abortion is legal in Arizona for 15 weeks, so no constitutional amendment is needed.

[EOP]

Add Stop Button Now Available on Android Auto

As explained in this 9to5Google article, you can now "add a stop" on Google Maps.

[EOP]

Arranging Multiple Windows on a Monitor

FancyZones is a window manager utility for arranging and snapping windows into efficient layouts to improve your workflow and restore layouts quickly. You can define a set of zone locations to use as targets for windows on your desktop. When you drag a window into a zone or use the associated keyboard shortcut, the window is resized and repositioned to fill that zone.

[EOP]

Why Not to Buy a Curved Monitor

Curved monitors look cool and have some benefits. But, before buying one, it is meet to note, as this XDA article explains, that there are some compelling reasons not to buy one.

[EOP]

World's Best Bourbon

Who doesn't love bourbon? Here is what came out on tops in the recent International Wine & Spirits Competition that so captured our attention and was a thrill to watch.

[EOP]

The Eagles: A Night That Will Live in Infamy ... A Loss Like No One's Ever Seen

😢😢😢😢😭😭😭😭😭 😢😢😢😢😢😢

Portrait of a Wealthy, Educated Trump Voter: The See-No-Evil Odious Jack Nicklaus

If overarching benefit of golf is that it teaches you important life lessons and makes you a better person, Jack Nicklaus is the exception that proves this universal, immutable rule. In addition to his disgusting stance on Casey Martin and other hateful things, here's why he says (Oxford comma omitted in the original) he is voting for Trump and he encourages everyone else to do so: "You might not like the way our President says or tweets some things - and trust me, I have told him that! - but I have learned to look past that and focus on what he's tried to accomplish. This is not a personality contest; it's about patriotism, policies and the people they impact. His love for America and its citizens, and putting his country first, has come through loud and clear. How he has said it has not been important to me. What has been important are his actions. Now, you have the opportunity to take action." The bottom-line lesson is clear: When it comes to supporting Trump, as often as not, people just create their own bubble of imaginary unreality.

PS: If you think Tiger Woods might show one can reach the top of the professional golf world and not be oblivious, here's what he said about Trump: "Well, he's the president of the United States. You have to respect the office. No matter who is in the office, you may like, dislike personality or the politics, but we all must respect the office." Can the irony of that statement be any more glaring?

[EOP]

Resetting Fn Keys

The top row of most keyboards has a series of Fn keys. The F1 key, for example, turns the speakers on or off. But you might wake up one morning and hitting the F1 key produces some other result, like opening a Chrome help page. Here's what likely happened: You hit the Flock key (the one to the right of the F12 key) and it changed all the commands of the Fn keys. Just press that Flock key and, like magic, the original Fn commands will be restored.

[EOP]

Mouse Recommendation

This ZERU mouse is our mouse of choice because: (i) its cost is just $10; rechargeable (no batteries); iy'd wireless and bluetooth enabled (no wires or USB dongle); and (iii) when it loses its charge, connecting it with its cable to the computer/laptop not only charges it, it keeps on working with the computer/laptop, adding to its benefit as a traveling mouse.

[EOP]

The Emmys

Likely no one missed watching the Emmys, and the lessons it taught us, namely: (i)  There is at least one subset of coastal elite who dress like no else dresses and applaud themselves like no one applauds themselves, who, as they flaunt their wealth, are totally oblivious to the fact that the utter disdain they display for "the others" is the fuel the MAGA cult is built on; (ii) the so-called Academy has no clue as to the difference between a comedy series and a drama series; and (iii) to end on an upbeat and gratifying note, although shockingly The Bear did not win for best series, it was heartening to see the spate of Emmys that went to acting roles (including the lead, the cousin, and other chefs) in The Bear and to the director of the The Bear's Xmas dinner episode.

[EOP]

Harris Campaign's Social Media Digital Rapid Response Team Aimed at the Youth

It has been this blog's long-standing position that this election will be turned by turnout, principally of the young, people of color, and women. We also have been skeptical of the polls because they do not accurately account for persons who will actually vote as opposed to people registered to vote who say they will vote (like who would say they won't vote?) and have substantial trouble sampling 25 yo youts. Now for the great news: The Harris campaign gets it. As this WaPo article explains, taking its inspiration from the Clinton (Carville/Stephanopoulos) war room, the Harris campaign has a very sophisticated rapid response team headed by a 25 yo and aimed at 25 yo youts that is entirely social media focused. It's really impressive, and way cool.

[EOP]

Best PC Laptop Under $500

This Acer Aspire 3 is PC Magazine's pick for best PC laptop under $500. Actually, it's under $300. I can personally attest that my Acer (albeit an Acer Swift which is thinner and lighter) has been the best laptop I've ever had. It boots up in 13 seconds and does everything else at lightning speed. And the rare times I've called on it, Acer support has been excellent.

[EOP]

Leave Touchpad On When Mouse Is Connected

If you use your laptop as most people do with an external mouse, and the external mouse dies, you would think you could use the touchpad. However, if the mouse (albeit dead) is still connected to the laptop (wired or wirelessly and why anyone would choose a wired option is inexplicable but that's another issue), the touchpad will not work if, under PC Settings/Devices/Touchpad, the box that says, "Leave touchpad on when a mouse is connected," is not checked. It can be very upsetting not knowing this early on a Sunday morning--although it confirms that having a backup for everything, in this instance a backup mouse, is a good idea.

[EOP]

Doubling the Life of a Squeegee

If you use a squeegee with any frequency (e.g., to wipe down your shower walls after your weekly shower), over time, the squeegee will become less effective because the rubber blade has bent back. You can get a new squeegee but, before doing so, try using the squeegee "backwards" (I don't know how to describe it better, but I think you get what I mean). The water droplets will think and react like it's a new squeegee.

[EOP]

Getting Access to Airport Lounges

The only thing worse than flying economy class is not having access to an airport lounge. This Islands article has a good overview of ways to gain access. Priority Pass is perhaps little known, but definitely worth a look. Unfortunately, it does not provide access to any Phoenix lounge. If it did, I'd join in a New York minute.

[EOP]

Billionaire Island on Netflix (6EP Mini-Series on Netflix)

Episode 1 of Billionaire Island is worth watching. It's a Norwegian film shot in Norway and all the dialogue is in Norwegian and there are costumes and such that make everything a bit confusing. It revolves around a family fight for control of their salmon business ... they are the big cheese of salmon. There are many characters. It might end up to be an all too familiar series a la Succession or Dallas, and so far it is not as good as Succession, but it has our attention. Spoiler Alert: One of the main characters is played by a guy who is a dead ringer for William Daniels. 

[EOP]

The Presidential Promise That Should Be Broken

President Biden has said he will not pardon or reduce the sentence of Hunter Biden. President's break their promises all the time (e.g., "Read my lips: No new taxes"). If ever there were an appropriate broken promise and exercise of the pardon or commutation power, it was that promise. Yeah, Biden should wait until after the election is settled. But given the victimless nature of the crimes, that the gun charge involved paperwork and no wrongdoing with a gun, and all the taxes have been paid, I trust and certainly hope that Biden will do what any father should do.

[EOP]

Stopping Apps From Running in the Background and Sending You Notifications

Some apps (like Pandora) will by default run in the background and send you notifications that make no sense or are of no import (such as, "you haven't loaded any content yet"). Here is how to stop them from running in the background: Go to Settings > Connections > Data usage > and Mobile data usage. Tap the offending app and toggle off Allow background data usage.You can also close apps running in the background by swiping down twice from the top of the screen to open Quick Settings. Then, tap the number of active apps running in the background at the bottom left, or the number next to Settings and Power at the bottom right. To close each active app, tap Stop. Here is a further way: Check battery optimization: Go to Optimize battery usage and make sure the offending app is not optimized. Lastly, you can try this: Check background restrictions: Press and hold the offending app's icon, then tap the icon to open App info. Select Advanced, then Battery. Make sure Background restriction is set to App can use battery in background. If it's set to Restricted, tap it to remove the restriction. 

[EOP]

Economics of the Gig Economy

As time marches on, driverless rides (e.g., Waymo) will have an increasing competitive impact on cabs and ride-sharing services (e.g., Lyft and Uber). Hardly anyone, if anyone, becomes a cab or ride-sharing driver because it's a job they love. They do so to put food on the table, often taking it on as a second job, and many have marginal economic existences. So, the question is, if one wishes to be of maximum elp to gig wage earners, should one take driver or driverless rides? While taking driver rides benefits the drivers and taking driverless rides hurts them, taking driverless rides helps all the people employed by driverless ride companies and those associated with building or supporting it and taking driver rides hurts them? We are in the process of running the numbers and will report when our study is completed. In the meantime, Waymo is a total hoot and, if you ever are in a city where you can take one (e.g.., Phoenix, San Francisco, Austin), take one, unless taking a freeway is the best route (Waymo won't go on freeways yet).

[EOP]

Easy Way to Trim/Fit a Laptop Skin

Ever since readers saw our post about laptop skins, there has been a rush to install them so that they need no longer suffer the ignominy and endure the unappealing sight of a steel-colored laptop. Apparently, however, some have found trimming and fitting the skins a bit difficult. They apparently don't know the trick, which takes some people 3 times (i.e., throwing out the first two skins they bought and buying a third one) to learn it. We'll disclose it here at no cost so everyone can do it in the first try. Here's the trick: Do NOT trim it before you put it lay it on. Instead, lay it on first without trimming at all, smooth out any air pockets or wrinkles (which is easy because you can take off the skin and put it back on if need be), and then trim it with a scissors along the laptop's edges. 

[EOP]

The Perfect Couple (2024 Mini-Series on Netflix)

The Perfect Couple, which centers on a murder mystery involving a very rich dysfunctional family at their Nantucket home for a wedding, starts off acceptable. As it proceeds, the people, who to a person are dislikable and unpleasant to watch, become so annoying that some in the audience walk out during EP3 not to return. They don't care who did it or why. Others will apparently persevere through the end. Objectively speaking, it's not particularly well-written and the acting is sub-par.

[EOP]

Benefits of Adaptive Cruise Control

If you're not using the adaptive cruise control (ACC) feature on your car, your short changing yourself and contributing needlessly to the cataclysmic effects of climate change by not being as fuel efficient as you could be. In short, here are the indisputable benefits of using ACC:

Safety: ACC helps maintain a safe distance from the car ahead by automatically adjusting speed and intervening if a vehicle is approaching too quickly. It can also help prevent accidents by assisting with emergency braking.

Reduced Driver Fatigue: ACC reduces the need for constant speed control, which can lead to less driver fatigue, especially on long trips or in heavy traffic.

Improved Fuel Efficiency: ACC helps maintain an even speed and reduces unnecessary acceleration and braking, which can improve fuel efficiency, especially on highways.

Relaxed Driving Experience: ACC can make driving more relaxing, especially on long trips and highways.

Increased Awareness: ACC allows drivers to focus more on their surroundings and overall road awareness. 

[EOP]

Covid Test Kits

There's going to be another round (later this month) of free Covid test kits available by mail. In the meantime, this FDA article has a complete listing of authorized test kits and expiration dates. Note that some kits are available for under $10.

[EOP]

Additional PS re Stopping Spam Calls

Again based on anecdotal reports, one can increase the number of spam calls that are blocked and reduce the number of spam calls that get through (which might be saying the same thing twice) if one diligently designates as blocked and spam all spam calls that are received. Never answer them. Whether or not this approach can lead to the spammers giving up on your number remains to be seen.

[EOP]

Things to Look for in a STR

Beyond checking that the STR has the room(s) and amenities you need and is in a location that suits you, here are some additional things to consider checking (and asking the host before committing to rent or reviewing the listing's description with care): the availability of a local host to handle personally any problems that might arise; bidet toilets or at least bidet attachments on the toilets; slow closing toilet seats; whether the washer and dryer are on pedestals; whether there is any known cell phone coverage issue for your carrier; the location of the modem and router should re-booting be necessary; the television channels and streaming services available on the place's television(s); the location of the television (be wary if it is usually stored in a closet); provision for recycling; user-friendliness for outlets for charging smart devices; things (e.g., restaurants, coffee shops) that are within walking distance; capacity of the water heater; whether the refrigerator/freezer has an ice-maker and, if so, whether it's working; make and model of coffee maker and the types of coffee filters it takes and whether they are provisioned; and a list of kitchen supplies that are supplied.

[EOP]

The New Yorker Cartoon Contest: Going to Bat for Loyal Readers

We have heard our readers' complaints on the timing problem with The New Yorker delivery. Here is the text of an email we sent to The New Yorker: "I live in Phoenix, AZ and subscribe to The New Yorker. I LOVE the cartoon contest and wish to participate in it. I’m not saying I would win any week, or even become a finalist, but the problem is this: More often than not my The New Yorker issue does not get delivered until days after the contest has closed. For example, and particularly aggravating, was delivery of the Sept. 9, 2024 issue on Sept 11, and the captions for cartoon contest had to be received by Sunday, September 8. Obviously, your belated delivery deprives me of the chance to enter the contest, and beyond that, means I’m not getting everything I’ve paid for with my subscription. Your attention to this issue will be appreciated. I hope you can solve the problem." We will keep you apprised of any updated information after we hear how appreciative they are to get this feedback and that it has been referred to the appropriate department. In the meantime, we have been informed that, if you have a delivery subscription, it will include a digital subscription from which you can always see and enter the cartoon contest in a timely fashion.

[EOP]

Peril of Relying on False Negative Rapid Covid Tests

As this Bloomberg News article explains, home tests for the latest Covid variants may not turn positive until several days after you get sick. If you’re sick and your first home test is negative, you have a few options besides waiting and repeating the test. You can go to urgent care and request a PCR test. Or, if you are older or in a high-risk group due to a pre-existing condition, call your doctor, who might be willing to prescribe Pfizer’s Paxlovid pills without a confirmatory test. Most important, as the article stresses, one thing you should never do when you have Covid-like symptoms: use a single negative test as a permission slip to visit elderly relatives. Just don’t go.

[EOP]

Advice for the Harris Campaign

1. Do frequent live interviews that will appear on TV, radio, and social media.

2. Have Taylor Swift (and other celebs who can reach various demographic groups) actively campaign (e.g., hold concerts or other events where having a voter registration card is required or at least encouraged for admission).

3. Get a yard sign/bumper sticker theme. "Turn the Page" or "Let's Talk About the Future" would be fine.

4. Refer to Trump as a "loser" whose only reason for running is to overcome the stain of being told by 81 million voters (7 million more than voted for Trump) that he is a "loser." [Note: This suggestion stems from a sporadic reader noting post-debate that Harris failed to call Trump a "loser," which she should have done and which likely would have sent him into orbit]

5. Take on squarely (as was not done at the debate) that, on every measure, the country is better off now than it was 4 years ago: jobs are up; wages are up; inflation is down; illegal immigration is down; crime is down.

6. Where we are worse off is still living with the fallout of the Trump administration, particularly the rights women lost over their own health issues.

7. Track the crowd size of her and Trump's rallies and report the difference, and report the number of people who left Trump rallies early.

8.  Don't forget that the dogs have a stake in this election. [Note: Courtesy of the reader cited in Point 4]

[EOP]

How to Avoid Fighting About Checking Luggage

Since the dawn of airline service, couples have fought about whether or not to check bags. The case against checking bags is clearly the stronger (no chance of their getting lost; faster exit from the airport), but that doesn't mean it always wins. Now there's a fantastic solution: Bags VIP. For $40, it will pick up 2 checked bags at the airport and deliver them to your destination. 

[EOP]

Portable Car Play and Android Auto Units

If your car is older than 2017, it likely does not have Apple Car Play or Android Auto built into it. You need not have been driving around since 2008 without your phone being able to cast to a larger screen, nor do you have to endure the same shortcoming with the 2015 car your partner gave you when she upgraded to a 2024 car with the all newest safety and other fancy shmancy features. For about $75, as this Forbes Home article explains, there are great plug-and-play options for portable infotainment units that bring all of the benefits of wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to older vehicles. These standalone units are like portable GPS units, consisting of a high-definition touchscreens of 7"-10" with extras like wireless Bluetooth or wired USB connectivity, audio processing, and output and some even have built-in dash cameras. All bring the modern in-car infotainment system setup to vehicles not new enough to feature the technology.

[EOP]

PS re Apple AirPods With Hearing Aid Capability

We have been bombarded with inquiries and interest in Apple's now FDA-approved AirPods that have hearing aid capability. Here are three things we have learned:  (i) They do work with Android phones (they work with any Bluetooth enabled device); (ii) the cost looks to be about $250 for the hearing aid enabled model Airpod; (iii)  one downside is battery life which is 4-6 hours before requiring recharging; and (iv) it appears they are available only in white.

[EOP]

Taylor Swift Effect

Over 67 million people watched the Harris/Trump debate. While the assessment of the differential in their relative performances is clear, what is not clear yet is the extent to which the debate will impact voter registration, voter preferences, and voter turnout. On the morning of the debate, Taylor Swift posted a short message on Instagram encouraging her 272 million followers to register to vote. Not long after, more than 337,000 people visited Taylor Swift's link to register to vote. Afterward, the website she directed her fans to — the nonpartisan nonprofit Vote.org — recorded more than 35,000 registrations. Those new registrations were the most since 2020, and a 23% jump over last year, and the number of 18-year-olds registered was more than double 2022. Hey, Brittany Mahomes, what do you say about that?

[EOP]

How to Get a Refundable Airline Ticket Without Paying for It

[Prefatory Note: The following should apply to American Airlines and might or might not to other airlines. American charges a premium for fully refundable tickets, which also have the advantage of allowing flight changes with no transfer fee. We are NOT recommending anyone actually do what is set out in this post, and will not do so until we have some clarity on the ethics of the matter which we are working through. But our initial view is that it is playing by the rules American set up, so there would seem to be no ethical impediment]

When you believe you will be flying somewhere, you might make a flight reservation and pay the premium to have the ticket be refundable in full to the credit card you used to pay for the ticket. Then, if you have to cancel the trip, it costs you nothing. But, once you are certain you are good to go, you buy a regular ticket without paying a refundable premium, and submit your request for a refund on the original ticket. Obviously, the risk is that the ticket price might have changed to your detriment, although it could have lowered to your benefit.

[EOP]

F Scott Fitzgerald Would Applaud Trump's Intelligence

Trump bashed the moderators as having made the debate “a rigged deal.” Still, he insists he won debate and characterized his performance as, “I think it was one of my better debates, maybe my best debate.”As F. Scott Fitzgerald said, "The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function.” But wait, there's more: The Harris campaign immediately challenged Trump to a second debate just moments after their first showdown ended. Trump responded, noting that Harris is now only pressing for a second debate “because the loser always asks for a rematch.” “I won the debate … I don’t know if I want to do another debate,” he said.

[EOP]

Who Said This?

Some people apparently have not heard or remembered this quote: "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is it’s natural manure." Cut and paste it into Google if you don't know who said it, but want to. Hint: It did not originate from the MAGA cult.

[EOP]

New Ways to Organize Chrome Tabs

Who doesn't love organizing Chrome tabs on iOS, Android, and Windows desktop devices? Good news: As this Mashable article explains, there are three new ways to do just that.

[EOP]

PS re Travel Leading to Spate of Spam Phone Calls

An earlier post reported that it is possible that, when one travels, the travel itself sets off an increase in spam calls and that, upon returning home, they abate or cease. The first half of that sentence could be true. Albeit based on just one data point, the statement about abatement and cessation is demonstrably not true.

[EOP]

Options re AirPods

This WSJ article has an excellent overview of the features of the various AirPod models, including new colors and one coming with hearing aid capability for moderate hearing loss. 

[EOP]

A First in Recent Presidential Debates

The moderators actually showed up.

[EOP]

The Right Reason to Buy Bonds

As this WSJ article explains, if you buy bonds, make sure you do it for the right reasons. The common wisdom says to buy bonds to diversify and hence lower the risk your portfolio faces from market fluctuations. But the strongest reason to own bonds over the long term is an even simpler one: the income they generate.

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Zero-Day Option Bets

If you have been overcome by ennui when it comes to investing in the stock market, you might find excitement in zero-day option trading, which has been around for a while, but recently has enjoyed renewed enthusiasm.

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Caution re Buying a New Car

If you don't like learning all the settings for a new phone or laptop, don't buy a new car. New cars really aren't cars, they are a maze of computers that ride around on wheels and talk to you through the car's screen and through the app. When stuck on not getting a setting to work right, the best thing to do is "reboot" which might mean re-starting the car, re-starting your phone, signing out of and back into the app, etc. And one thing for sure: You will no longer believe you could live without the app which, among other things, will remotely start your car, alert you if leave the car unlocked, show you the tire pressure of each tire, and on and on and on. It's like a Xmas miracle.

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PS re Freezing Bananas to Keep for Return From Vacation

It doesn't  work.

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The Stakes for the Presidential Debate

Carl Quintanilla, a CNBC stock market commentator, famously said after a blockbuster announcement after the market closed, "This is a big deal. It's going to move the market tomorrow. It's just not clear whether it's going to push the market higher or drag it down." As it turned out, the market budged hardly at all. Some think, and all sane people hope, Trump will so disgrace himself that Harris will get a huge bump. Some think, and sane people fear, that Harris could fail to take advantage or, worse, mess up. In short, the debate could have a profound effect on the election or none at all. And that's why, as they say in sports, "Forget predictions ... that's why we play the game."

PS: Harris's challenge is to do the two things that the moderators likely will not do: (i) Call out the false statements Trump makes; and (ii) call out and press for answers on the questions Trump ducks. Those two tacts should frame the opening and closing of each of her answers to the moderators and ripostes to Trump.

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Importance of Turning Off Cellphones and Tablets at Least Once Per Week

IT experts strongly recommend turning off your smart devices at least once per week, and there really is no debate on the matter. Doing so has security, battery-life, network, and performance benefits. Not doing so is asking for unneeded trouble.

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Why Trump's NY Election Case Conviction Will Be Overturned

Aided by the corrupt Supreme Court and a corrupt district court judge, along with an incompetent Georgia prosecutor, the legal system has shown that it is incapable of protecting the people against Trump's malfeasance. It's just too easy to run out the clock. And lest anyone think the NY election fraud case will not be reversed on appeal is living in a dream world. The heart of the case is violation of state election law. But this was a federal election, and the Supremacy Clause preempts state law. Not having charged or tried Trump under federal law was unconstitutional.

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How to Customize Icons on the Taskbar

This How-To Geek article tells you everything you need to know and shows you how easy it is to customize the icons on the taskbar.

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Sobering View of REITs

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are a way to invest in property without actually owning property. This WSJ article looks at the performance of various kinds of REITs over the past decade or so.

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Cloud Storage vs Cloud Backup

Cloud storage and cloud backup may sound like the same thing, but they are actually different. Cloud backup refers to tools that protect your data, files, and system from a catastrophic event like ransomware or theft. Cloud storage refers to tools that let you free up space on your device by having copies of some files saved to the cloud. Simply put, cloud storage services do not provide comprehensive protection or the same peace of mind that cloud backup services offer. They also differ in terms of the user intervention needed to keep each up to date.

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Correcting Google Maps: Key Preparatory Step Before Taking a Waymo Ride Home

My home address used to be "askew" in Google Maps, which thought my house was down the street from where it actually is. No problem with a Lyft, Uber, or cab, because it was easy to have the driver make the appropriate adjustment. But with Waymo, there's no driver, so, if your destination (e.g., home) address is wrong in Google Maps, Katie bar the door. Fortunately, as this article explains, it is easy to ask Google Maps to correct itself--and we can attest that Google Maps is more responsive than you might have guessed.

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Cost of Round Trip Ticket vs Cost of Booking Outgoing and Returning Flights as Separate Tickets

Sometimes booking a round trip ticket will cost more than booking the outgoing and returning flights separately. Sometimes booking a round trip ticket will cost less than booking the outgoing and returning flights separately. Sometimes there will be no significant difference. It's not hard to check before you confirm your reservation.

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Spam Calls May Increase When Traveling and How to Stop Spam Calls From Ringing

This is anecdotal and not proven, but, when asked, the Google AI bot says that, "Yes, spam calls can increase when traveling." We raised the question because a loyal reader reports that he rarely got spam calls until he went on a trip, and then, during the trip, got 10 or more spam calls per day, and then upon  returning home, the spam calls immediately abated and then stopped. There's a confound in analyzing the data in that he religiously never answered a spam call and put each one on a spam list or otherwise blocked the number, so perhaps that effort bore fruit. He also passes on the fact, unknown to many, that you can stop a call from ringing without answering by pressing the on/off button (or some other button depending on your make/model of phone). 

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Expired Covid Tests

As this VeryWell Health article explains, many COVID-19 rapid tests have extended expiration dates, so check the FDA’s list before discarding old tests. Expired COVID tests may provide unreliable negative results, but a positive result is still likely accurate, experts say. Recalled or damaged tests should not be used, even if they're not expired.

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Downside of Falling Interest Rates

The last few years, with fixed income investments at every point on the yield curve paying generously, have been a wonderland for risk-averse investors. As this NYT article explains, while rate cuts are welcome in much of the economy, they pose problems for risk-averse investors who relish high money market and bond yields. If the answer were simply to  move one's funds to stocks, that would be great. But, although stocks might be the best thing ever over the long run, the article points to the number of years and groups of years that stocks have not done so well. Also, the experts note that one should be wary of ETFs that specialize in dividend-paying stocks, which tend to do quite poorly.

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BRI vs BMI

As this NYT article reports, the body mass index (BMI) has long been criticized as a flawed indicator of health. A replacement has been gaining support: the body roundness index (BRI).

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Transfering Files To and From Android Devices

FTP is an easy and quick way of moving files between an Android phone and a computer. There are plenty of other ways to do that, but, as this Life Hacker article explains, FTP is definitely worth a look—it's easy to set up, and it won't cost you anything.

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Trump on Child care

Speaking at the Economic Club of New York, Trump was asked: “If you win in November, can you commit to prioritizing legislation to make child care affordable and if so, what specific piece of legislation will you advance?” Here is Trump’s entire answer, verbatim, which put to rest my concern about Trump's position on the matter:

“Well, I would do that, and we’re sitting down — you know, I was, uh, somebody, we had Sen. Marco Rubio [(R-Fla.)] and my daughter, Ivanka, was so, uh, impactful on that issue. It’s a very important issue. But I think when you talk about the kind of numbers that I’m talking about, that — because child care is child care. It’s, couldn’t — you know, it’s something, you have to have it. In this country, you have to have it. But when you talk about those numbers compared to the kind of numbers that I’m talking about by taxing foreign nations at levels that they’re not used to but they’ll get used to it very quickly. And it’s not going to stop them from doing business with us, but they’ll have a very substantial tax when they send product into our country. Those numbers are so much bigger than any numbers that we’re talking about, including child care, that it’s gonna take care. We’re gonna have — I, I look forward to having no deficits within a fairly short period of time. Coupled with, uh, the reductions that I told you about on waste and fraud and all of the other things that are going on in our country — because I have to say with child care, I want to stay with child care, but those numbers are small relative to the kind of economic numbers that I’m talking about, including growth. But growth also headed up by what the plan is that I just, uh, that I just told you about. We’re gonna be taking in trillions of dollars, and as much as child care is talked about as being expensive, it’s, relatively speaking, not very expensive compared to the kind of numbers we’ll be taking in. We’re going to make this into an incredible country that can afford to take care of its people and then we’ll worry about the rest of the world. Let’s help other people. But we’re gonna take care of our country first. This is about America first. It’s about: Make America great again. We have to do it, because right now we’re a failing nation. So we’ll take care of it. Thank you. Very good question.”

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5 Settings to Improve Your TV

This ZDNet article takes you through 5 simple TV setting changes that should improve your viewing experience. 

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RustDesk: Better Than Team Viewer

Team Viewer used to be the go-to remote desktop program. No more. RustDesk 1.3.0 beats it seven ways from Sunday, and it's free. It allows you to view and control remote devices from another device using just one app, with most of the features you previously enjoyed from TeamViewer -- before being accused of using it for non-personal purposes. Better still, the client app works across all major platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS, although the iPhone/iPad client can only be used to control other iOS devices.

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Smart Device Charger

As this The Verge article details, Anker makes the best and most compact 65W and 100W single-port and multi-port chargers. They are our go-to chargers especially when traveling.

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Tips on Vacationing in Manzanita on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon coast has some of the most spectacular and best walking beaches in the world. And several ones in small towns (e.g., Rockaway Beach and Manzanita) are just 2.5 hours by car from the Portland International Airport. Here are some tips:

1. If you are upgraded  on your flight, be sure to have made a meal selection more than 24 hours before departure. You might not get it, but if you don't order online, you likely will have no choice as to your meal.

2. Take a cab, Uber, or Lyft to the airport, or better yet have a friend drive you. Do not take a Waymo if a freeway is the best route. Waymo won't go on the freeway.

3. Expect a walk akin to the Bataan Death March to get your rental car at the Portland airport. The good news is that all the rental car companies are now in the airport (some used to be a 20 minute bus ride away). The bad news is that, if there's a crack in your windshield, it likely won't be visible until you get out of the garage and into the sunshine. The good news is they probably won't see it when you return the car to the garage. Take a picture of any dings you did see before you drive out (it will date/time record for your record).

4. Wanda's Cafe is fabulous for breakfast and lunch, but expect a 30-40 minute wait to get in with some heavy noisy logging trucks going by.

5. Off Shore Grill (which has moved from Rockaway Beach to Manzanita) is absolutely fabulous. The other high-end restaurant with a funny name is better skipped. 

6. While Manzanita's restaurants are not so great (with the exception of the OffShore Grill), the markets are close and handy (unlike Rockaway Beach's) so meals at home are easy. The burrito shop has excellent burritos and more at very good prices.

7. There's a primordial rain forest 10 minutes from Manzanita that is like one of the wonders of the world and a fabulous walk.

8. Some days are warm and sunny. Other days are foggy and drizzly. Other days are both. Clothes-wise here's what to take: 2 pairs of long pants; 2 pairs of shorts; 2 long-sleeve and 2 short-sleeve shirts; 1 light sweater; 1 heavier sweater; 1 water-proof wind-breaker; flip-flops; walking shoes or sneakers and 3-pairs of socks; 1 hat; underwear.

9. If you like TV, check that your STR actually provides a decent TV.

10. If you are upgraded on your flight, be sure to have made a meal selection online more than 24 hours before departure. You might not get it, but if you don't order online, you likely will have no choice as to your meal.

11. Traffic back to the airport, particularly as you get with 10 miles of Portland, is brutal.

12. There is a gas station just as you enter the Portland airport where you can top of the gas tank of your rental car. Having Google Maps find you a gas station once you are on US 5 is not a bad alternative.

13. Don't take a Waymo home from the airport if going by freeway is the best route. Waymo won't go on the freeway.

14. Taking a Waymo home at the end of the trip is a freaky way to get to the best part of any trip ... coming home.

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