Sunday, January 29, 2017

This was my house when I was young in Centralia PA.. the one...



This was my house when I was young in Centralia PA.. the one next to the church to the right. That is the mine fire in the top of the photo..

The image being presented simply for the purpose of nostalgia on a Sunday morning.


THE BEAST soars high again: SPLIT reigns for second weekend

THE BEAST soars again..
For the second week in a row, SPLIT reigned high at the box office, delivering another decisive victory for M Night Shyamalan.
SUNDAY AM UPDATE: Looking to hold on to the number one spot with ease, Universal’s Split brought in an estimated $7.9 million on Friday and is looking at an impressive $25+ million second weekend.
Landing in second on Friday is Universal’s A Dog’s Purpose with an estimated $5.3 million as it looks as if it will finish around $18.5 million for the three-day weekend.
Screen Gems’s release of Resident Evil: The Final Chapter is projected to take in $13.7 - $14 million for the weekend after taking in an estimated $5.1 million on Friday.
The stories and video about dogs from DOG’S PURPOSE being treated questionably probably didn’t help the film–and with the cloudy month we had we are sad enough without watching a movie about dogs dying continuously.. 
That said, I also loved the movie SPLIT.. The ending wasn’t the twist I completely have come to love with M Night, but it worked for the film and the atmosphere presented about a city of Philadelphia under siege from 24 personalities without knowing it..
James McAvoy was impressive, completely impressive. Anna Taylor Joy was as well–as usual M Night cast the film with the perfect people to perform the roles necessary..
This is also a much needed victory for M Night Shyalaman, so many films now he has been hit was criticism.. 
I have loved each movie he made–even the ones others didn’t..
So happy to see SPLIT performing well..
Weekend final numbers for this week: 
  • Split (3,199 theaters) - $18.8 M
  • A Dog’s Purpose (3,058 theaters) - $18.0 M
  • Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (3,104 theaters) - $12.2 M
  • Hidden Figures (3,351 theaters) - $11.6 M
  • xXx: The Return of Xander Cage (3,651 theaters) - $11.0 M
  • La La Land (3,136 theaters) - $10.0 M
  • Sing (2,690 theaters) - $5.4 M
  • Gold (2,166 theaters) - $4.1 M
  • Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2,049 theaters) - $4.0 M
  • Monster Trucks (2,496 theaters) - $3.5 M

THE BEAST soars again..For the second week in a row, SPLIT...



THE BEAST soars again..

For the second week in a row, SPLIT reigned high at the box office, delivering another decisive victory for M Night Shyamalan.

From BOX OFFICE MOJO:

SUNDAY AM UPDATE: Looking to hold on to the number one spot with ease, Universal’s Split brought in an estimated $7.9 million on Friday and is looking at an impressive $25+ million second weekend.

Landing in second on Friday is Universal’s A Dog’s Purpose with an estimated $5.3 million as it looks as if it will finish around $18.5 million for the three-day weekend.

Screen Gems’s release of Resident Evil: The Final Chapter is projected to take in $13.7 - $14 million for the weekend after taking in an estimated $5.1 million on Friday.

The stories and video about dogs from DOG’S PURPOSE being treated questionably probably didn’t help the film–and with the cloudy month we had we are sad enough without watching a movie about dogs dying continuously.. 

That said, I also loved the movie SPLIT.. The ending wasn’t the twist I completely have come to love with M Night, but it worked for the film and the atmosphere presented about a city of Philadelphia under siege from 24 personalities without knowing it..

James McAvoy was impressive, completely impressive. Anna Taylor Joy was as well–as usual M Night cast the film with the perfect people to perform the roles necessary..

This is also a much needed victory for M Night Shyalaman, so many films now he has been hit was criticism.. 

I have loved each movie he made–even the ones others didn’t..

So happy to see SPLIT performing well..

Weekend final numbers for this week: 

  • Split (3,199 theaters) - $18.8 M
  • A Dog’s Purpose (3,058 theaters) - $18.0 M
  • Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (3,104 theaters) - $12.2 M
  • Hidden Figures (3,351 theaters) - $11.6 M
  • xXx: The Return of Xander Cage (3,651 theaters) - $11.0 M
  • La La Land (3,136 theaters) - $10.0 M
  • Sing (2,690 theaters) - $5.4 M
  • Gold (2,166 theaters) - $4.1 M
  • Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2,049 theaters) - $4.0 M
  • Monster Trucks (2,496 theaters) - $3.5 M

Confusion over the Trump executive disorder

Reporting from CNN


When President Donald Trump declared at the Pentagon Friday he was enacting strict new measures to prevent domestic terror attacks, there were few within his government who knew exactly what he meant.Administration officials weren't immediately sure which countries' citizens would be barred from entering the United States. The Department of Homeland Security was left making a legal analysis on the order after Trump signed it. A Border Patrol agent, confronted with arriving refugees, referred questions only to the President himself, according to court filings.Saturday night, a federal judge granted an emergency stay for citizens of the affected countries who had already arrived in the US and those who are in transit and hold valid visas, ruling they can legally enter the US.


And more..

It wasn't until Friday -- the day Trump signed the order banning travel from seven Muslim-majority countries for 90 days and suspending all refugee admission for 120 days -- that career homeland security staff were allowed to see the final details of the order, a person familiar with the matter said.The result was widespread confusion across the country on Saturday as airports struggled to adjust to the new directives. In New York, two Iraqi nationals sued the federal government after they were detained at John F. Kennedy International Airport, and 10 others were detained as well.

Border blitz! The Trump ban! The overturning judge! All breaking tonight

SATURDAY NIGHTS ARE RIGHT FOR FIGHTING..
THE DRUDGE REPORT SUMMARIZES HEADLINES OF TODAY THE BEST WITH A SERIES OF HEADLINES AND LINKS ..


Saturday, January 28, 2017

The monocle Mandela Effect

It happened again..

The Mandela Effect, for all its naysayers, seemingly strikes when you least expect it.. at the most comfortable of occasions, you find yourself uneasy.. Uncomfortable.. Unsure of what you may have just realized is true despite what you always knew to be reality.

Last night while playing Monopoly, I took a hard look at the Monopoly Man. I have seen him my entire life. . . from old board games as a child to even the NINTENDO version in the late 1980s, I have always loved the game. The newest version is cool but creepy–a credit card and banking fees, all electronic. So it was that when I figured, alright.. they must have modernized the Monopoly Man to have him loose the monocle.

Thus began another night of Mandela Effect thinking.

See… I went back, and I could not find any image of the Monopoly Man having a monocle. Even odder was finding people in Halloween costumes, dressed as the Monopoly Man with a monocle..

I also founds lots of pop culture references to the monocle.. people writing articles that that to really, really be the Monopoly Man you need a monocle to adorn your face. Even a scene in ACE VENTURA that would muddy the waters..



And nothing..

No evidence that a monocle ever existed..

Nothing to showcase proof that such a facial feature was on the Monopoly Man..

So yet again, another piece of information that weaves together a confusing fabric of the Mandela Effect.

I have long written about this topic on this website.. I have not really opined much about the validity of the effect, whether it’s true that reality has shifted or if we just all remember everything the wrong way.. Except a few times, name the following:

The turkey leg King Henry VIII mystery..

The movie KAZAM that never existed..

And OXICLEAN.. or however you spell it..

Add to that.. the Monopoly Man. And the fact that I have distinct and really vivid memories of the famous figuring having a monocle.

Unless I was just getting him confused with the PLANTERS NUT all of this time?



If it was on the Monopoly Man, no dice.

It’s gone now.



At least gone in this timeline..

Friday, January 27, 2017

John Hurt dead




The Hollywood Reporter:

The British actor of stage and screen also received an Academy Award nom for 'Midnight Express' and was memorable in 'Alien,' three Harry Potter films and 'Doctor Who.'
John Hurt, the esteemed British actor known for his burry voice and weathered visage — one that was kept hidden for his most acclaimed role, that of the deformed John Merrick in David Lynch’s The Elephant Man — has died, according to reports from several British newspapers. He was 77.

The two-time Oscar nominee's six-decade career also included turns on the BBC’s Doctor Who and in A Man for All Seasons (1966), Midnight Express (1978) and three Harry Potter films.

He announced in June 2015 that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Rump.



Rump.


Phil the Groundhog better get ready

A BIG WEATHER PATTERN CHANGE COMING.. THE HOG WON’T KNOW WHAT HITS HIM..
Seriously.. we are going from a mild winter to a suddenly cold and snowy one here in the East ..  This weather model you’re looking at for example shows what MAY be a February 6ish storm along the coast, Nor’Easter potential… Blizzard condition potential.
The big thing will be a bout of not one but SEVERAL storms that can do the same run along land and water .. 
The battle line will now be about where the rain and snow falls..
Developing weather..

AN IMAGE TO START YOUR FRIDAY



AN IMAGE TO START YOUR FRIDAY


A BIG WEATHER PATTERN CHANGE COMING.. THE HOG WON’T KNOW WHAT...



A BIG WEATHER PATTERN CHANGE COMING.. THE HOG WON’T KNOW WHAT HITS HIM..

Seriously.. we are going from a mild winter to a suddenly cold and snowy one here in the East ..  This weather model you’re looking at for example shows what MAY be a February 6ish storm along the coast, Nor’Easter potential… Blizzard condition potential.

The big thing will be a bout of not one but SEVERAL storms that can do the same run along land and water .. 

The battle line will now be about where the rain and snow falls..

Developing weather..


PUT ON YOUR FINEST REDS! HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR

- Lunar New Year, which also encompasses Chinese New Year or “Spring Festival,” begins on Jan. 27 and ends Feb. 2. While Chinese New Year is part of Lunar New Year, Lunar New Year is not necessarily Chinese New Year — it is more of a blanket term that is celebrated by more than one culture.
- Chinese New Year is based on the ancient Chinese calendar that existed when the Shang Dynasty was in power during the 14th Century B.C. “The Chinese calendar was a complex timepiece,” said Christopher Tin of Better Chinatown USA. “Its parameters were set according to the lunar phases as well as the solar solstices and equinoxes.”
- The Chinese calendar also follows the Chinese zodiac, meaning each year is represented by one of 12 signs of the Zodiac. This is the year of the rooster.
- Home and family are the core principles of the Chinese New Year . New Year in China is the largest period of human migration on earth, according to Tin. “Everyone goes back home to visit their families, and with so many migrant workers, this equates to hundreds of millions of people!” he said.
- One common tradition includes gifting red envelopes, or “lai see,” which are filled with “lucky money.” These envelopes are most commonly given to children by their parents. The amount of money doesn’t matter as it is only symbolic, however, it is usually an even number.
- The numbers eight and 88 are considered especially lucky because “eight” sounds like a word that means “prosperity.”
- Families offer ritual sacrifices of food and paper icons to appease both Gods and ancestors. Paying respects to your ancestors is also a common practice during the new year.
- Dumplings are often created to resemble gold and silver ingots to represent riches and foods like hard-boiled eggs, fish and chicken are all associated with prosperity. Spring rolls tend to represent wealth and sweet rice balls represent family togetherness.
- The color red is often used during the Chinese New Year — so much so it is even featured in food. Red dates, dyed pumpkin seeds and pomegranates are often found on the table during Chinese New Year.
2017 is a Fire Rooster Year. According to Chinese astrology, each year is associated with one of five elements as well as an animal, including gold (metal), wood, water, fire or Earth. The element, combined with the zodiac animal, set the astrology for the year. This year is a fire year, and so those born in 2017 are Fire Roosters. The last Fire Rooster Year was 1957.
Each year, the Chinese calendar assigns an animal from a rotating zodiac of 12 animals. The 12 animals cycle through rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. 2016 was the Year of the Monkey. Apart from 2017, the Year of the Rooster includes the years 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005 and 2029.
Famous Roosters include Beyoncé, Bob Marley, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears and Jennifer Aniston. Famous Fire Roosters include Stephen Fry, Steve Buscemi and Hans Zimmer.
Roosters are characterized as observant and hardworking. Active and talkative, Roosters tend to enjoy social events and being in the center of attention, according to Chinese astrology. They also typically enjoy sports, according to traits set by the astrology.
2017 is set to be unlucky for Roosters, according to Chinese astrology, because being in the year of one’s birth sign does not bode well. Chinese astrology dictates that Roosters will have to monitor their money and health extra carefully. However, when it comes to love, Roosters truly in love are advised to get married. Those in dead-end relationships should consider breaking up, according to the astrology.

PUT ON YOUR FINEST REDS! HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR!

Facts concerning the year of the Rooster

- Lunar New Year, which also encompasses Chinese New Year or “Spring Festival,” begins on Jan. 27 and ends Feb. 2. While Chinese New Year is part of Lunar New Year, Lunar New Year is not necessarily Chinese New Year — it is more of a blanket term that is celebrated by more than one culture.

- Chinese New Year is based on the ancient Chinese calendar that existed when the Shang Dynasty was in power during the 14th Century B.C. “The Chinese calendar was a complex timepiece,” said Christopher Tin of Better Chinatown USA. “Its parameters were set according to the lunar phases as well as the solar solstices and equinoxes.”

- The Chinese calendar also follows the Chinese zodiac, meaning each year is represented by one of 12 signs of the Zodiac. This is the year of the rooster.

- Home and family are the core principles of the Chinese New Year . New Year in China is the largest period of human migration on earth, according to Tin. “Everyone goes back home to visit their families, and with so many migrant workers, this equates to hundreds of millions of people!” he said.

- One common tradition includes gifting red envelopes, or “lai see,” which are filled with “lucky money.” These envelopes are most commonly given to children by their parents. The amount of money doesn’t matter as it is only symbolic, however, it is usually an even number.

- The numbers eight and 88 are considered especially lucky because “eight” sounds like a word that means “prosperity.”

- Families offer ritual sacrifices of food and paper icons to appease both Gods and ancestors. Paying respects to your ancestors is also a common practice during the new year.

- Dumplings are often created to resemble gold and silver ingots to represent riches and foods like hard-boiled eggs, fish and chicken are all associated with prosperity. Spring rolls tend to represent wealth and sweet rice balls represent family togetherness.

- The color red is often used during the Chinese New Year — so much so it is even featured in food. Red dates, dyed pumpkin seeds and pomegranates are often found on the table during Chinese New Year.

2017 is a Fire Rooster Year. According to Chinese astrology, each year is associated with one of five elements as well as an animal, including gold (metal), wood, water, fire or Earth. The element, combined with the zodiac animal, set the astrology for the year. This year is a fire year, and so those born in 2017 are Fire Roosters. The last Fire Rooster Year was 1957.

Each year, the Chinese calendar assigns an animal from a rotating zodiac of 12 animals. The 12 animals cycle through rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. 2016 was the Year of the Monkey. Apart from 2017, the Year of the Rooster includes the years 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005 and 2029.

Famous Roosters include Beyoncé, Bob Marley, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears and Jennifer Aniston. Famous Fire Roosters include Stephen Fry, Steve Buscemi and Hans Zimmer.

Roosters are characterized as observant and hardworking. Active and talkative, Roosters tend to enjoy social events and being in the center of attention, according to Chinese astrology. They also typically enjoy sports, according to traits set by the astrology.

2017 is set to be unlucky for Roosters, according to Chinese astrology, because being in the year of one’s birth sign does not bode well. Chinese astrology dictates that Roosters will have to monitor their money and health extra carefully. However, when it comes to love, Roosters truly in love are advised to get married. Those in dead-end relationships should consider breaking up, according to the astrology.


npr: thebeakerblog: Gorgeous photos from NOAA’s newest weather...





npr:


thebeakerblog:



Gorgeous photos from NOAA’s newest weather satellite, GOES-16


In the first picture, we see a composite color full-disk image of the Western Hemisphere captured on Jan. 15, 2017. According to NASA, the new weather satellite can image the Earth every 15 minutes, which is five times faster than current devices used by meteorologists and will allow more detailed observations of the atmosphere and weather systems.


“The image is much more than a pretty picture, it is the future of weather observations and forecasting,” said Louis W. Uccellini, director, NOAA’s National Weather Service, Silver Spring, in a news release. “The rapid-refresh of these images will allow us to monitor and predict the evolution of these systems more accurately.”


And yes, that is a real picture of the moon in the second photo. Stunning! 


-Patrick 


(Image Credit: NOAA, NOAA/NASA)



Start your day with spectacular photos from NASA! 🌔  -Emily



Where were you on January 15 2017 when this picture was taken? ….feel small yet?


NASA cuts another feed..

UFO!

Here is the story..

Yet again NASA is making headlines (at least in British fishwrappers) for cutting a feed after a UFO seemingly was spotted..

The occurrence was seen by one of the many observers,  this time John Craddick, who seemingly stare are live NASA footage constantly, trying to find the next UFO ..

He told British press,

He told the Mirror: “I’ve been watching it [the live feed] for years but never seen any UFOs on it before.

"I was showing a friend how it worked at around 11.30pm when the feed cut out, and 35 seconds after it came back on, this object appeared.

"At first it was really small and then it grew bigger, lasting for about 25 seconds,” he said.

Mr Craddick claims that it must be alien because “nothing human can fly that high”


Thursday, January 26, 2017

Another day in the life of the Trump presidency

If you check your favorite news service of choice as of late, you may be noticing a trend.. All Trump, all the time..
And the headlines? So often unkind..

This is a smattering of issues from today.. A screenshot first to capture a moment time:


From the NEW YORK TIMES  concerning the sudden (but expected) tension with the land down  under the United States:

Mr. Trump’s push to fulfill his campaign pledge and build a border wall brought to a head months of simmering tensions, culminating in a remarkable back-and-forth between the two leaders.By afternoon, Mr. Trump’s spokesman said the president would pay for the border wall by imposing a 20 percent tax on imports to the United States, which he said would raise billions of dollars.The sparring began Thursday morning when the president of Mexico announced on Twitter that he was canceling his meeting with Mr. Trump next week, rejecting the visit after the new American leader ordered the border wall between the two nations.Having called for dialogue in the face of Mr. Trump’s vows to build a wall during the American presidential campaign, President Enrique Peña Nieto ultimately bowed to public pressure in Mexico to respond more forcefully to his northern neighbor.

 Concerning that threat of a 20% tax..
President Trump will call for a 20 percent tax on Mexican imports in the hopes of raising billions of dollars to help construct a controversial wall along the southern border of the United States — a move likely to ratchet up the tension between the two nations.

White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer told reporters on Thursday that the plan had been discussed with congressional Republican leaders and is part of a broader tax reform effort. Chief of Staff Reince Priebus told NBC News the 20 percent tax on Mexican imports is one of a "buffet of options", sentiments Spicer also echoed.

And on the DoomsDay Clock:
Moving the Clock 30 seconds, rather than a full minute or more, was a first as well, meant to reflect the fact that while Trump's words on the campaign trail raised the specter of a renewed arms race—Trump tweeted in December that the U.S. must "greatly strengthen and expand its nuclear capability until such time as the world comes to its sense regarding nukes"—it was too early to know exactly what he would do as President. "It is now only six or seven days of the Administration, and actions speak louder than words," said Krauss. "We want to send a message that things are not going in the right direction."

......and it hasn't even been a full week yet.
 Welcome to the new America..?



The Northern Schuylkill County prison industry lives to die another day

Score one for corrections in the northern part of the coal region.. today Governor Wolf announced that SCI Pittsburgh would be shuddered in a cost savings move. Surviving was SCI Frackville, and the rest of the prisons in the Northeast, that some thought would have occurred..

Local legislators utilized the event to celebrate with BOILO..


This news came with an obvious sigh of relief from the personnel within the county who rely on the prison 'industry' for jobs.. not only those who work within Corrections but also any remaining local restaurants or hotels that benefit from facility..

For obvious reasons.. some of the biggest industries in Schuylkill County revolve around area prisons..

Vegan wars!

The Unnatural Vegan vs the Vegan Cheetah!
Ramon noodles!
Cheese!?
Who’s more vegan?!
Who’s less?
Ethics and animals, furs and fights..
Vegans Youtubers battle with might…



I think I’ll stick to my one ingredient lifestyle ..


Vegan wars!

The Unnatural Vegan vs the Vegan Cheetah! Ramon noodles! Cheese!? Who’s more vegan?!
Who’s less? Ethics and animals, furs and fights..
Vegans Youtubers battle with might…
I think I’ll stick to my one ingredient lifestyle ..


Wednesday, January 25, 2017

TV icon Mary Tyler Moore died on Wednesday after being...



TV icon Mary Tyler Moore died on Wednesday after being hospitalized in Connecticut, her rep confirmed . She was 80.


TV icon Mary Tyler Moore died on Wednesday after being...



TV icon Mary Tyler Moore died on Wednesday after being hospitalized in Connecticut, her rep confirmed . She was 80.



45 gets 20,000! Dow Hits 20000 for First Time - MoneyBeat - WSJ

45 gets 20,000! Dow Hits 20000 for First Time - MoneyBeat - WSJ:

Since Election Day, the stock market has found fresh legs to add to one of the longest bull-market runs in U.S. history



45 gets 20,000! Dow Hits 20000 for First Time - MoneyBeat - WSJ

45 gets 20,000! Dow Hits 20000 for First Time - MoneyBeat - WSJ:

Since Election Day, the stock market has found fresh legs to add to one of the longest bull-market runs in U.S. history


Tuesday, January 24, 2017

Mysterious ‘booms’ heard around San Diego County

Mysterious ‘booms’ heard around San Diego County:

“Was there an earthquake that made that big boom at 3:15 p.m.?” Nancy Whitaker posted on Facebook.

Santee residents reported seeing a large glowing ball in the western sky.

“I automatically thought it was a earthquake, my car started moving back & forth in Imperial Beach!” Laura Reynolds said.

“Are we having an earthquake? Our sliders won’t stop shaking, but my chair isn’t moving and it’s not wind,” a Coronado resident posted to social media.

“I heard it here on the Strand, but didn’t feel anything. Sounded like 2 loud bangs, I thought it was thunder. I am curious what it could have been,” another Coronado resident posted.

USGS did not detect an earthquake in San Diego County during that time. a


Mysterious ‘booms’ heard around San Diego County

Mysterious ‘booms’ heard around San Diego County:

“Was there an earthquake that made that big boom at 3:15 p.m.?” Nancy Whitaker posted on Facebook.

Santee residents reported seeing a large glowing ball in the western sky.

“I automatically thought it was a earthquake, my car started moving back & forth in Imperial Beach!” Laura Reynolds said.

“Are we having an earthquake? Our sliders won’t stop shaking, but my chair isn’t moving and it’s not wind,” a Coronado resident posted to social media.

“I heard it here on the Strand, but didn’t feel anything. Sounded like 2 loud bangs, I thought it was thunder. I am curious what it could have been,” another Coronado resident posted.

USGS did not detect an earthquake in San Diego County during that time. a



Trump unplugged! Threatens to 'Send in the Feds' Because of Chicago 'Carnage'!

Trump unplugged! Threatens to 'Send in the Feds' Because of Chicago 'Carnage'!:

The full tweet tonight:



“If Chicago doesn’t fix the horrible "carnage” going on, 228 shootings in 2017 with 42 killings (up 24% from 2016), I will send in the Feds!“


Trump unplugged! Threatens to 'Send in the Feds' Because of Chicago 'Carnage'!

Trump unplugged! Threatens to 'Send in the Feds' Because of Chicago 'Carnage'!:

The full tweet tonight:

“If Chicago doesn’t fix the horrible "carnage” going on, 228 shootings in 2017 with 42 killings (up 24% from 2016), I will send in the Feds!“



Trumpland.. the infrastructure list revealed..The document...



Trumpland.. the infrastructure list revealed..


The document obtained by the Star proposes funding the projects as public-private partnerships, with half the money coming from private investment.

The Trump team put together the priority list of “Emergency & National Security Projects,” a senior congressional aide said. It includes cost estimates and job impact numbers.

It is not clear whether that document is a draft or a final version. The National Governors Association circulated a similar list, which had been compiled by the transition team, as a spreadsheet among state officials in December, requesting further suggestions. All but two projects on both lists are the same.

Some projects that governors suggested — in California and Washington state in particular — do not yet appear on either list.

The governors’ association has received 43 responses from states and territories so far, said Elena Waskey, a spokeswoman for the association.


Trumpland.. the infrastructure list revealed..The document...



Trumpland.. the infrastructure list revealed..


The document obtained by the Star proposes funding the projects as public-private partnerships, with half the money coming from private investment.

The Trump team put together the priority list of “Emergency & National Security Projects,” a senior congressional aide said. It includes cost estimates and job impact numbers.

It is not clear whether that document is a draft or a final version. The National Governors Association circulated a similar list, which had been compiled by the transition team, as a spreadsheet among state officials in December, requesting further suggestions. All but two projects on both lists are the same.

Some projects that governors suggested — in California and Washington state in particular — do not yet appear on either list.

The governors’ association has received 43 responses from states and territories so far, said Elena Waskey, a spokeswoman for the association.



Trump unleashed! expected to order temporary ban on refugees

Trump unleashed! expected to order temporary ban on refugees:

….FANS READY TO BE HIT WEDNESDAY

President Donald Trump is expected to sign executive orders starting on Wednesday that include a temporary ban on most refugees and a suspension of visas for citizens of Syria and six other Middle Eastern and African countries, according to several congressional aides and immigration experts briefed on the matter.

Trump, who tweeted on Tuesday night that a “big day” was planned on national security on Wednesday, is expected to order a multi-month ban on allowing refugees into the United States except for religious minorities escaping persecution, until more aggressive vetting is in place.

Another order will block visas being issued to anyone from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, said the aides and experts, who asked not to be identified.

In his tweet late on Tuesday, Trump said: “Big day planned on NATIONAL SECURITY tomorrow. Among many other things, we will build the wall!”


Trump unleashed! expected to order temporary ban on refugees

Trump unleashed! expected to order temporary ban on refugees:

….FANS READY TO BE HIT WEDNESDAY

President Donald Trump is expected to sign executive orders starting on Wednesday that include a temporary ban on most refugees and a suspension of visas for citizens of Syria and six other Middle Eastern and African countries, according to several congressional aides and immigration experts briefed on the matter.

Trump, who tweeted on Tuesday night that a “big day” was planned on national security on Wednesday, is expected to order a multi-month ban on allowing refugees into the United States except for religious minorities escaping persecution, until more aggressive vetting is in place.

Another order will block visas being issued to anyone from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, said the aides and experts, who asked not to be identified.

In his tweet late on Tuesday, Trump said: “Big day planned on NATIONAL SECURITY tomorrow. Among many other things, we will build the wall!”



Missouri company snags the Schuylkill Mall!

The mall has been sold!
New management!
Out with the old!
...in with the new... But what is the future?

This is a press release to persons within the mall ..

The winning bidder was Northpoint Development LLC for $2.1 million and the assumption of the leases for A&A Auto Parts, Total Renal Care, Big Lots, McDonald’s, Holiday Inn Express and Cracker Barrel. Northpoint will also maintain Bon Ton’s rights under their ground lease agreement. They will allow rejection of all leases by the trustee pursuant to the bankruptcy code.
This bid is subject to a hearing and approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court For the Middle District of Pennsylvania, which is scheduled a hearing tomorrow. If approved by the court, closing is to take place by February 24.

The death of the mall? Or a new birth.. time will tell..


But for now, we can tell this about the new ownership of the mall from their own website..


We believe we have an obligation to give back to the community through charitable efforts and, as a token of our appreciation to those who have helped us succeed, we will pay it forward.

The relationships with our customers, employees, and investors are our most valuable assets. We will strive to always take care of each other and to operate our business so that we maintain our culture of appreciation, respect, transparency, and we shall avoid office politics.

We also know this about Northpoint.. the development company has also recently purchased Highridge properties in Minersville.. They spent $28 mil, as a matter of fact, on two parcels in Highridge late 2015..

In January 2017, just days ago, it was reported that chew.com company based in Dania Beach, Fla., will lease an 800,000-square-foot distribution center that NorthPoint is developing on a 172-acre site in Hanover Township near Wilkes-Barre.. NorthPoint acquired the site, which was remediated after being scarred by coal mining, for $15 million in September.
In 2014, the Kansas City Missouri went nation when it launched big industrial and apartment projects..

The company also made national headlines in 2016 when it considered a $32 million facility in Indiana ..

 

Just a few days ago, Kansas City BUSINESS JOURNAL reported that the company's developments were 'taking off like rockets' ..

Northpoint apparently has 'found a friend in Pennsylvania.'   And now the future of the Schuylkill Mall is in their hands..

THE SCHUYLKILL MALL HAS BEEN SOLD TO A MISSOURI DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

The winning bidder was Northpoint Development LLC for $2.1 million and the assumption of the leases for A&A Auto Parts, Total Renal Care, Big Lots, McDonald’s, Holiday Inn Express and Cracker Barrel. Northpoint will also maintain Bon Ton’s rights under their ground lease agreement. They will allow rejection of all leases by the trustee pursuant to the bankruptcy code.

This bid is subject to a hearing and approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court For the Middle District of Pennsylvania, which is scheduled a hearing tomorrow. If approved by the court, closing is to take place by February 24.

As to the future the mall I cannot project nor do I know the plans by Northpoint.

The death of the mall? Or a new birth.. time will tell..


The life--or death--of my local mall?

Schuylkill Mall was on the auction block this morning.

This can be reported: Officials obtained a successful bid, and it is now subject to hearing and approval ..

More coming.. though I have tried I haven't been able to obtain any clear information on the bidder or the amount..

Developing ..



Every day of news is becoming a whirlwind..



Every day of news is becoming a whirlwind..



Every day of news is becoming a whirlwind..



Every day of news is becoming a whirlwind..


Monday, January 23, 2017

As one Nor’Easter ends.. watch out or this..

Models are starting to show a dynamic upper level trough that enters the Eastern Great Lakes, dives to the Mid Atlantic states and moves northeastward from there spawning an East Coast snowstorm around January 29 or so…

Right now the models are southeast of the region with snowfall, but the trends have been to sharpen the trough up more and more and then bring the storm closer to the coastline. New England is favored over Washington DC.

all up in the air.. Worth watching..

Watching it closely..


As one Nor’Easter ends.. watch out or this..

Models are starting to show a dynamic upper level trough that enters the Eastern Great Lakes, dives to the Mid Atlantic states and moves northeastward from there spawning an East Coast snowstorm around January 29 or so…

Right now the models are southeast of the region with snowfall, but the trends have been to sharpen the trough up more and more and then bring the storm closer to the coastline. New England is favored over Washington DC.

all up in the air.. Worth watching..

Watching it closely..



This is the ultimate insult to injury.. Plants vs Zombies Garden...



This is the ultimate insult to injury.. Plants vs Zombies Garden Warfare 2 has fast become my son’s favorite game.. and somewhat mine. But lately it’s been awful, just awful.. Every time the game gets good, we get booted. And this annoying “unable to connect to EA servers” warning comes up.

I am curious if anyone else had the same issue? I know there are ‘fixes’ online–all of which thus far have yet to ‘fix’ the issue for us..

It’s getting painful, though.. 

If anyone out there has a real true fix to the problem, please send it to me.. let me know.. Until then, the plants and zombies fight without me or Ayden helping..

??


This is the ultimate insult to injury.. Plants vs Zombies Garden...



This is the ultimate insult to injury.. Plants vs Zombies Garden Warfare 2 has fast become my son’s favorite game.. and somewhat mine. But lately it’s been awful, just awful.. Every time the game gets good, we get booted. And this annoying “unable to connect to EA servers” warning comes up.

I am curious if anyone else had the same issue? I know there are ‘fixes’ online–all of which thus far have yet to ‘fix’ the issue for us..

It’s getting painful, though.. 

If anyone out there has a real true fix to the problem, please send it to me.. let me know.. Until then, the plants and zombies fight without me or Ayden helping..

??



Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton Collapses during his State Of The...

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi7WSv3NCCE?feature=oembed&enablejsapi=1&origin=http://safe.txmblr.com&wmode=opaque&w=400&h=225]

Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton Collapses during his State Of The State Speech. He was attended to by EMTs as the joint meeting of the House and Senate was adjourned. He apparently fainted. Dayton will turn 70 this Thursday.

You don’t see this every day…


Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton Collapses during his State Of The...



Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton Collapses during his State Of The State Speech. He was attended to by EMTs as the joint meeting of the House and Senate was adjourned. He apparently fainted. Dayton will turn 70 this Thursday.

You don’t see this every day…



Trump meets with leaders of building, sheet metal unions

Trump meets with leaders of building, sheet metal unions:

President Donald Trump met Monday at the White House with leaders of construction, carpenters, plumbers and sheet metal unions, the White House said.

According to the White House, participants included North America’s Building Trades Unions President Sean McGarvey, Laborers’ International Union of North America President Terry O'Sullivan, SMART sheet metal workers’ union President Joseph Sellers, United Brotherhood of Carpenters President Doug McCarron and Mark McManus, president of the United Association that represents plumbers, pipefitters, welders and others.



Trump Abandons Trans-Pacific Partnership, Obama’s Signature Trade Deal

Trump Abandons Trans-Pacific Partnership, Obama’s Signature Trade Deal:

From the NEW YORK TIMES: 

President Trump formally abandoned the Trans-Pacific Partnership on Monday, pulling away from Asia and scrapping his predecessor’s most significant trade deal on his first full weekday in office, administration officials said.

Mr. Trump sharply criticized the partnership agreement during last year’s campaign, calling it a bad deal for American workers. Although the deal had not been approved by Congress, the decision to withdraw the American signature at the start of Mr. Trump’s administration is a signal that he plans to follow through on promises to take a more aggressive stance against foreign competitors.

In other action on a busy opening day, Mr. Trump ordered a hiring freeze in the federal work force, exempting the military. And he reinstituted limits on nongovernmental organizations that operate overseas and receive American taxpayer money from performing abortions. Republican presidents typically impose those restrictions soon after taking office, and Democratic presidents typically lift them when they take over.

The president’s withdrawal from the Asian-Pacific trade pact amounted to a drastic reversal of decades of economic policy in which presidents of both parties have lowered trade barriers and expanded ties around the world. Although candidates have often criticized trade deals on the campaign trail, those who made it to the White House, including President Barack Obama, ended up extending their reach.



Trump meets with leaders of building, sheet metal unions

Trump meets with leaders of building, sheet metal unions:

President Donald Trump met Monday at the White House with leaders of construction, carpenters, plumbers and sheet metal unions, the White House said.

According to the White House, participants included North America’s Building Trades Unions President Sean McGarvey, Laborers’ International Union of North America President Terry O'Sullivan, SMART sheet metal workers’ union President Joseph Sellers, United Brotherhood of Carpenters President Doug McCarron and Mark McManus, president of the United Association that represents plumbers, pipefitters, welders and others.


Trump Abandons Trans-Pacific Partnership, Obama’s Signature Trade Deal

Trump Abandons Trans-Pacific Partnership, Obama’s Signature Trade Deal:

From the NEW YORK TIMES: 

President Trump formally abandoned the Trans-Pacific Partnership on Monday, pulling away from Asia and scrapping his predecessor’s most significant trade deal on his first full weekday in office, administration officials said.

Mr. Trump sharply criticized the partnership agreement during last year’s campaign, calling it a bad deal for American workers. Although the deal had not been approved by Congress, the decision to withdraw the American signature at the start of Mr. Trump’s administration is a signal that he plans to follow through on promises to take a more aggressive stance against foreign competitors.

In other action on a busy opening day, Mr. Trump ordered a hiring freeze in the federal work force, exempting the military. And he reinstituted limits on nongovernmental organizations that operate overseas and receive American taxpayer money from performing abortions. Republican presidents typically impose those restrictions soon after taking office, and Democratic presidents typically lift them when they take over.

The president’s withdrawal from the Asian-Pacific trade pact amounted to a drastic reversal of decades of economic policy in which presidents of both parties have lowered trade barriers and expanded ties around the world. Although candidates have often criticized trade deals on the campaign trail, those who made it to the White House, including President Barack Obama, ended up extending their reach.


The official title of the next STAR WARS revealed: The Last...



The official title of the next STAR WARS revealed: The Last Jedi..



via Tumblr http://ift.tt/2jpsCkA

The official title of the next STAR WARS revealed: The Last...



The official title of the next STAR WARS revealed: The Last Jedi..


"Comedy" in the Trump era

There is no doubt that comedy, irony, and lampoonery is the soundest of principles to keep power in check.. Donald Trump deserves every bit of it as would any leader or public official who makes decisions that need to be held up to the light of day.
But that said...
There are some troubling things.

A SNL writer Tweeted this weekend that Barron Trump, the President's 10-year-old son, would be the first 'home school shooter.' He is not even home schooled by the way. And now just this:

A Comedy Central writer called Barron a "date rapist to be." It did not stop there.

Comedy Central writer Stephen Spinola is under fire for tweeting that President Trump’s 10-year-old son Barron Trump is a “date rapist to be”.
In a since deleted tweet, Spinola joked, “Barron Trump looks like a very handsome date-rapist-to-be.”
He followed it up with another tweet that said, “I don’t want my Mom to get raped, but if she does I hope it’s by Barron Trump – small pp would be painless & we’d win lots of money in court.”
After receiving a deluge of criticism, Spinola proceeded to complain about people on Twitter being abusive to him.


A little disgusting.
The same way it was when former President Obama's daughters were initially targeted by some members of the media .. the President at that time said his family was off limits. Trump needs to do the same -- but not sure if many will listen.

Right now is one of the nastiest times for the internet I can recall.. I recoil at my Facebook newsfeed.. I shield myself from Twitter.. I try to look away and find solace in the non-political. But these days so many things come back to politics.. Just about everything as a matter of fact.
Unification seems to far away. President Trump may be judged according to his policies and actions, however the initial criticism seems to be getting way too personal.. too cruel.. and to direct to his son Barron.

Barron is a 10-year-old. He is not fair game, it's not cool or proper to think he is. And yes, there will be a continuous flow of Tweets and media commentary destroying his life.. Nothing said in response will stop the rudeness or rottenness...

...decency in decay on the information superhighway...








As positive a mantra as you can get to start a rainy workweek.....



As positive a mantra as you can get to start a rainy workweek.. a rainy day.. and a day filled with the joy and might that life can bring, along with the pains and surprise tribulations it can so often equally contain.

May your day be bright and cheery even if your skies are not.

You are alive, after all. If you are reading it.
If not, you found your path to the other side.
And for those in between, smile and eat some fruit. It will do a body good.



via Tumblr http://ift.tt/2jgUbzh

As positive a mantra as you can get to start a rainy workweek.....



As positive a mantra as you can get to start a rainy workweek.. a rainy day.. and a day filled with the joy and might that life can bring, along with the pains and surprise tribulations it can so often equally contain.

May your day be bright and cheery even if your skies are not.

You are alive, after all. If you are reading it.
If not, you found your path to the other side.
And for those in between, smile and eat some fruit. It will do a body good.


Sunday, January 22, 2017

Big waves pounded NorCal coast Saturday: Record breakers in...



Big waves pounded NorCal coast Saturday: Record breakers in Monterey Bay

VIDEO TOO:


Big waves pounded NorCal coast Saturday: Record breakers in...



Big waves pounded NorCal coast Saturday: Record breakers in Monterey Bay

VIDEO TOO:



via Tumblr http://ift.tt/2jQPr4r

ALL domestic United Airlines flights GROUNDED!


All– I said ALL!– United Airlines domestic flights grounded by computer outage:

All of United Airlines’ domestic flights were grounded Sunday night because of a computer outage, the Federal Aviation Administration said as scores of angry travelers sounded off on social media.

International flights weren’t affected by the ground stop, which the FAA said was issued at United’s request.

The ground stop initially was scheduled to end at 8 p.m., but United tweeted at 8:06 that it was still “working on a resolution.” The FAA later extended the ground stop to 9 p.m. ET.

All-- I said ALL!-- United Airlines domestic flights grounded by computer outage

All-- I said ALL!-- United Airlines domestic flights grounded by computer outage:

All of United Airlines’ domestic flights were grounded Sunday night because of a computer outage, the Federal Aviation Administration said as scores of angry travelers sounded off on social media.

International flights weren’t affected by the ground stop, which the FAA said was issued at United’s request.

The ground stop initially was scheduled to end at 8 p.m., but United tweeted at 8:06 that it was still “working on a resolution.” The FAA later extended the ground stop to 9 p.m. ET.


'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' has officially made over $1 billion at the global box office - NME

'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' has officially made over $1 billion at the global box office - NME:

The feat follows Captain America: Civil War ($1.153 billion), Finding Dory ($1.028 billion) and Zootopia ($1.024). All four films to pass the $ 1 billion mark were created by Disney.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the stand alone Star Wars prequel hit $512.2 million in North America and $499.1 million overseas over the weekend, making a total of $1.011 billion at the box office since its release in December last year. It crossed the $1 billion mark on its 39th day in cinemas.


Death toll from tornadoes, storms reaches 18 in Southeast

Death toll from tornadoes, storms reaches 18 in Southeast:

A series of furious storms roared through the Southeast on Sunday, killing at least 18 people, splintering homes and toppling trees and power lines in the path.

Officials said 14 people were killed in Georgia.

Catherine Howden, a spokeswoman for the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, said Sunday evening that three deaths were confirmed in Georgia’s Dougherty County, and local officials said search and rescue operations were underway after a reported tornado caused widespread destruction in the county.


OBSERVATION MODE!! THE 'MAYHEM NOR'EASTER'

This is going to be a big storm.. It strikes tonight. Lots of rain.. lots of wind.. and for those who get it, a ton of snow.

It is the same storm causing absolute horror in the South right now with deadly tornadoes..

Some models showcasing the strangely different forecasts that are simultaneously being run right now by computer systems..
















It's almost time for observation mode. Until then, the varied forecasts keep confusing the professionals while the debate continues on the message board on Accuweather that I have been following for weeks about this storm!

I really absolutely cannot believe how much different all of these forecasts maps actually are..
The mayhem Nor'Easter indeed.

Watching closely..

Extreme weather: Florida tornado warning, January 22 2017

This is direct from a post only moments ago on Weatherboy Weather:

Know anyone in central Florida? Vacationing at the Orlando-area theme parks? Visiting the Florida Space Coast? Relaxing in the Tampa-St. Petersburg area?
HELP US GET THE WORD OUT: A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION / TORNADO WATCH has been issued for this region. This rare but extremely severe watch is issued when theres'a high chance of life-threatening tornadoes.
Tornadoes can be large, extremely strong, and pursue very long touch-down tracks across many towns.
If you or your loved ones are in this area, make sure they are aware of this imminent danger. People in this zone should constantly monitor the National Weather Service for TORNADO WARNING information and take IMMEDIATE ACTION should a Tornado Warning be issued for their county --you may only have minutes to save your life!!!
THIS IS A LIFE THREATENING STORM SYSTEM THAT WILL LEAD TO ADDITIONAL LOSS OF LIFE. PLEASE TAKE THESE THREATS SERIOUSLY AND TAKE EVERY PRECAUTION TO PROTECT LIFE AND
PROPERTY.

DEVELOPING

BE SAFE!
PRAYERS FROM THE COAL REGION ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE PEOPLE I KNOW IN THIS VERY AREA..

A foggy night as a mall dies in the distance




This was taken of me and my son after a movie at the Schuylkill Mall last night.. the fog was immense and thick.. and while we were laughing it would appear we were heading into a foreboding jungle of horror..

And on that note, this coming week, the potential final chapter of the mall arrives.

The auction is on Tuesday.

A Pittsburgh mall just told for a mere $100 bucks. No telling what will happen Tuesday..

The Mighty Trump Tweets again


IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING.. THE TWEETING WILL CONTINUE.. The president of the United States seems to have the professionals using the @POTUS account.. meanwhile the private Tweetstream continues unabashed.
If he fails or succeeds one thing is clear: This is going to be a transitional president, and for better or worse (depending on your political stance) a very historic figure..

TRUMP DAY 3

IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING.. THE TWEETING WILL CONTINUE.. The president of the United States seems to have the professionals using the @POTUS account.. meanwhile the private Tweetstream continues unabashed.

If he fails or succeeds one thing is clear: This is going to be a transitional president, and for better or worse (depending on your political stance) a very historic figure..


Major low-pressure system with “landcane” eye to...





Major low-pressure system with “landcane” eye to threaten SE US all-time low pressure readings tonight as tornadoes spin across FL..

Those watching this storm along the East Coast should be bracing for extremely high winds.. very heavy rains (strange for January, actually) and for those who see snow? Lots of heavy wet snow.

Don’t be surprised that a warm ground has made a saturated landscape, so much so that trees are uproots and wires come down.

But the winds? … those winds.

This would be an epic blizzard all along the East Coast if one thing was there: Cold air. But this year? None.. Instead of a January thaw it’s been a constant pre-freeze.

After the storm rolls through, something else will occur: A rush of warmth along the East Coast for Wednesday. And then all bets are off..

There is a chance–albeit slim if you look at the overall pattern since about November–that winter may actually strike for a few weeks in February.  

The chances..
Until then>>
The chance of rain. Cloudy with a chance of meatballs. Wind thrown in for good measure. 


Did Donald Trump Remove the Terms 'LGBT' and 'Climate Change' from the White House Web Site?

Did Donald Trump Remove the Terms 'LGBT' and 'Climate Change' from the White House Web Site? :

Not really.
This happens with the modern phase in of a new administration.. old pages go, they get archived, and new ones get created.



That said, the true test may be seen when we watch to see if certain pages or topics actually come back again..


yesterdaysprint: St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Missouri, October...



yesterdaysprint:





St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Missouri, October 17, 1909




A flashback to 1909… the. Breathalyzer of choice seemed more dangerous than the liquid that got one intoxicated to begin with!


Saturday, January 21, 2017

Day two

Day two:
Donald Trump traveled to CIA headquarters Saturday to offer reassurance to the workforce after he spent weeks criticizing American intelligence, but his unscripted, self-referential remarks before a wall of stars memorializing fallen officers are drawing criticism, including a pointed denunciation from the agency’s recently departed director.

“Former CIA Director Brennan is deeply saddened and angered at Donald Trump’s despicable display of self-aggrandizement in front of CIA’s Memorial Wall of Agency heroes,” Nick Shapiro, a former aide to John Brennan at CIA, told NBC News’ Andrea Mitchell.

Brennan, Shapiro said, believes Trump “should be ashamed of himself.”

Trump was greeted with cheers by the CIA officers who volunteered to be there to greet him on a Saturday.

But the wall of 117 stars in the CIA lobby is a revered place, and presidents who have spoken there tend to do so carefully and with a close attention to their subject — usually the sacrifices of the CIA officers and their families.

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