I have noticed, and do not like, a disturbing trend – and that is the transfer of either the work or the risk (and often both) to the consumer.  As the world gets more complex and choices (and consequences of choices) multiply, the accompanying knowledge needed to make a good decision is becoming more arcane … Continue reading Now, You Are The Actuary

Everybody’s Fool by Richard Russo If you have not yet read Everybody’s Fool and have also not yet read Nobody’s Fool, then start with the latter and work your way up.  Having watched the movie is not sufficient (though, in my humble opinion, the movie does justice to the book).  And, also, if you have … Continue reading Recommended Summer Escape Reading

I never thought I was much of a pessimist, but the times, they are a changin’.  Not that I ever saw the world through rose-colored glasses, but I did not think I was THAT negative.  I am not so sure anymore.   I always thought that I was somewhere between Lincoln (you can’t fool all the … Continue reading Am I becoming a Pessimist?

You know that graphically enhanced picture of me that greets you when you link to my blog?  Well, I do not look like that anymore. You see, due to several constraints (we have an immune-compromised member of the family, I have a history of upper respiratory infections that are not mild, our children are thankfully … Continue reading Whip My Hair (A Pandemic Response)

I am not a Christian. I am well aware that I live in a Christian majority. I am not attempting to take the Christ our of Christmas or preventing Christians from celebrating their faith and holidays (or other religion's celebrations, for that matter). I understand that the majority religion's events and celebrations are going to … Continue reading Boycott Hobby Lobby

The worst thing about growing older is not the loss of physical capabilities, though that is a pain in the ass, and the knees, shoulders, and ankles.  Though bothersome, the increasing numbers of food items that cause raging indigestion are not the worst thing about growing older either.  Neither is diminishing eyesight, hearing, tolerance for … Continue reading The Worst Thing About Growing Older

By now you have probably read, skimmed, or at least seen the headlines about ProPublica’s ProPublica’s huge expose regarding how the wealthiest Americans are not paying their fair share of income tax. (see: The Secret IRS Files: Trove of never-before-seen records reveal how wealthiest avoid income tax.) I am going to argue that, while ProPublica’s … Continue reading Fun With Math: Our Obsession With the Rich

A bit of background. Our small Village, following the Governor's actions, established a mask mandate for indoor activity at commercial and public indoor areas in the village. Two businesses, owned by the same family, decided to post "please remove your mask" signs in the entrances to their establishments and actively derided the Governor's and Village … Continue reading Letter To The Editor