Tuesday, 4 March 2025

Current Ways To Die

 

 Cyclic Crises & Estimated Time Ranges

1. Magnetic Pole Reversal (~200,000 to 800,000 years per cycle)

  • The last major reversal (Brunhes-Matuyama) occurred 780,000 years ago.
  • The Laschamp Excursion (a failed reversal) happened 41,000 years ago.
  • The magnetic field has weakened 10% in the past 150 years, suggesting we may be entering a reversal phase, but this process could take centuries to millennia to complete.

2.

Milankovitch Cycles & Ice Ages
(~100,000 years per full cycle)

  • Driven by Earth's orbital changes (eccentricity, axial tilt, and precession).
  • The current interglacial (Holocene) began ~11,700 years ago.
  • The next glacial period (ice age) is expected in ~10,000 to 50,000 years, but human-induced climate change may delay it.

3. Solar Minimum & "Little Ice Ages" (~11-year cycles & ~400-year grand cycles)

  • 11-year cycles: The Sun undergoes an activity cycle, with periods of high and low sunspot activity (we are currently in Solar Cycle 25, peaking ~2025).
  • Grand solar minimums (Maunder Minimum, ~1645-1715) happen every 200 to 400 years.
  • The next grand solar minimum could occur this or next century, cooling the planet slightly but unlikely to trigger a full ice age.

4. Thermohaline Circulation Collapse (AMOC Shutdown) (~1,000-1,500 years per shift)

  • The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which includes the Gulf Stream, has weakened by ~15% since 1950.
  • Past AMOC collapses have triggered rapid ice age shifts in decades to centuries.
  • Some studies suggest a partial collapse by 2100, with complete shutdown in the next 100 to 300 years if warming continues.

5. Supervolcanic Eruption Cycle (~50,000-100,000 years per major eruption)

  • Yellowstone erupts every ~600,000-800,000 years (last eruption ~640,000 years ago).
  • Toba, Indonesia, erupted ~74,000 years ago, nearly causing human extinction.
  • While probability is low, a VEI-7 or VEI-8 eruption could occur in the next 10,000 years.

6. Methane Release from Permafrost & Clathrates (~100,000 years per major release)

  • Methane "burps" from frozen Arctic reserves are linked to warming periods in Earth's past.
  • Warming could trigger a major methane release in the next few decades to centuries, leading to rapid climate acceleration.

7. Magnetic Pole Wander & Weakening (~10,000-year cycles for large shifts)

  • The South Atlantic Anomaly suggests Earth's magnetic field is unstable.
  • Large-scale weakening events happen over thousands of years, but localized shifts (like the recent rapid North Pole movement) occur within centuries.

8. Glacial-Interglacial Transitions (~10,000-100,000 years per shift)

  • The last glacial period ended ~11,700 years ago.
  • Without human impact, the next cooling would have started in ~10,000 to 20,000 years, but greenhouse gases may delay it indefinitely.

Shorter-Term Cycles (Decades to Centuries)

  • Desertification & Drought Cycles (~30-50 years)
    • The Sahara undergoes a wet/dry cycle every ~20,000 years, but smaller-scale desertification cycles happen within centuries to millennia.
  • Extreme Weather Intensification (~50-200 years)
    • The increase in hypercanes and storms is ongoing due to climate change and happens over decades to centuries.
  • Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) Impacting Earth (~100-200 years for large event)
    • The Carrington Event (1859) was a once-in-500-years solar storm.
    • A similar event could occur within the next few centuries.
  • Ozone Layer Fluctuations (~50-100 years)
    • The ozone hole recovers and worsens based on chemical use.
    • Expected full recovery by 2060-2080 unless new pollutants emerge.

Potential Near-Future Events (0-100 Years)

  • AMOC (Gulf Stream) Weakening → Possible collapse by 2200
  • Methane Release → Could accelerate within next few decades
  • Solar Minimum Cooling → Possible small dip in warming next century
  • Major Volcanic Eruption (VEI-6 or VEI-7) → Likely in the next 500 years
  • Magnetic Field Weakening → Could reach dangerous lows by 2200-2500


Monday, 3 March 2025

 

Toronto How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed

The gradual collapse of modern Canada stands as a testament to the vulnerability of even the most advanced societies. It is not the sudden explosion of war or natural disaster that has brought us to the precipice of failure, but rather a slow erosion of the very structures that once ensured stability. In the wake of economic decline, mismanagement, and political inaction, we are witnessing the slow death of the societal contract.

Employers who refuse to pay workers for their labor, only to declare bankruptcy without consequence, are a glaring example of a systemic failure that has become all too common. These are not isolated incidents but part of a broader trend: the weakening of labor protections and the erosion of workers' rights. The lack of accountability in the private sector, where the rich grow richer and the poor are left to languish, reflects a society that has allowed its foundations to crumble under the weight of greed and negligence.

Equally troubling is the failure of the justice system. In the past, a Canadian citizen could rely on the state to defend their rights and provide legal aid when accused of a crime. Today, many are left to fend for themselves, with the absence of free legal assistance for those too poor to pay for representation. This lack of access to justice breeds frustration and despair, as people turn away from the rule of law and seek alternative means of resolution. Without the foundation of fair legal recourse, we are left with the rise of private justice, where those with power enforce their own brand of retribution.

The healthcare system, once lauded as a model for the world, is no longer capable of meeting the needs of its citizens. Emergency rooms are filled with patients lying in hallways, waiting for days to receive care. In rural areas, family doctors are a rarity, and many Canadians have been left to navigate their health without proper support. This has created an atmosphere of desperation, where those who can afford private care are the only ones who receive treatment, further deepening the divide between the haves and have-nots.

Perhaps the most visible and tragic symbol of the collapse is the increasing number of Canadians living on the streets. Parks, once peaceful spaces for leisure, have become the last refuge for those who can no longer afford housing. The sight of families huddled together in tents, exposed to the elements, is a painful reminder of the social fabric tearing apart. At the same time, many Canadians are starving, while food insecurity becomes a pressing issue that the state is ill-equipped to address.

The cold winters now claim the lives of the homeless, a reminder of the harshness of nature when the mechanisms of society fail to provide the basic necessities. These are not just the effects of an economic downturn but the result of a systemic collapse in which every institution—healthcare, justice, education, and welfare—has faltered in its duty to serve the people. As the state withdraws from its role as provider, private entities and gangs step in to fill the void, often exploiting the situation for their own gain.

It is in this context that the slow collapse of Canada must be understood—not as an isolated event, but as part of a global pattern in which advanced societies, once secure in their success, begin to fragment and unravel under the weight of internal contradictions and external pressures.


Sunday, 2 March 2025

TORONTO 2027

 

TORONTO 2027

In the post-collapse world, the city had become a vast, ungoverned jungle. The buildings, once gleaming symbols of prosperity and order, now loomed like monuments to the fragility of civilization. They were vacant husks, stripped of their grandeur, their windows shattered and facades crumbling, as though the earth itself had begun to reclaim them. Beneath their silent shadows, the streets teemed with the remnants of society—people no longer pretending that the systems of the past could ever return.

The air was thick with the pungency of decay, the smell of old hopes fermenting in forgotten corners. Patches of verdant moss and weeds sprouted through the cracked concrete, pushing their way through the urban sprawl. It was the slow collapse, the gradual descent into disorder, where nothing seemed catastrophic enough to trigger widespread panic, but everything seemed to unravel in small, unnoticed increments. The denizens of this city, now survivors rather than citizens, moved in packs, wary of the other fractured groups that competed for control over dwindling resources.

There was no government. No central authority. The law had become an illusion, a faint echo of a time when justice had a face and a name. Instead, people turned to those who could exert power. Gangs, organized crime syndicates, and warlords rose to prominence. In the absence of true leadership, people rallied to figures of strength—men and women who controlled territories with iron fists and promises of protection. The legal system had dissolved into the ether, and those who sought justice could only turn to self-made tribunals or private enforcers, often at the mercy of those with the most resources or the greatest ruthlessness.

The hospitals had long ceased to function as places of healing. People lay on hallways, huddled together on old stretchers, waiting for a bed that would never come. Some of them had been there for days, some for weeks. Those with power moved past them, indifferent to their suffering, while the weak simply disappeared into the system. If one were lucky, they might have a family doctor who would still answer their calls—but that was a privilege now reserved for the few. Many resorted to self-care, learning rudimentary medical practices to save themselves or perish in obscurity.

And yet, the worst of it was not the violence or the lack of resources. It was the pervasive feeling that it didn’t matter anymore. Society, in its decline, had bred apathy. People no longer felt the need to protest the conditions around them. They no longer believed that things could be any different. There was no grand, final moment of collapse. It had been a thousand small cuts—silent, unnoticed, but fatal all the same.


Toronto How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed)

The gradual collapse of modern Canada stands as a testament to the vulnerability of even the most advanced societies. It is not the sudden explosion of war or natural disaster that has brought us to the precipice of failure, but rather a slow erosion of the very structures that once ensured stability. In the wake of economic decline, mismanagement, and political inaction, we are witnessing the slow death of the societal contract.

Employers who refuse to pay workers for their labor, only to declare bankruptcy without consequence, are a glaring example of a systemic failure that has become all too common. These are not isolated incidents but part of a broader trend: the weakening of labor protections and the erosion of workers' rights. The lack of accountability in the private sector, where the rich grow richer and the poor are left to languish, reflects a society that has allowed its foundations to crumble under the weight of greed and negligence.

Equally troubling is the failure of the justice system. In the past, a Canadian citizen could rely on the state to defend their rights and provide legal aid when accused of a crime. Today, many are left to fend for themselves, with the absence of free legal assistance for those too poor to pay for representation. This lack of access to justice breeds frustration and despair, as people turn away from the rule of law and seek alternative means of resolution. Without the foundation of fair legal recourse, we are left with the rise of private justice, where those with power enforce their own brand of retribution.

The healthcare system, once lauded as a model for the world, is no longer capable of meeting the needs of its citizens. Emergency rooms are filled with patients lying in hallways, waiting for days to receive care. In rural areas, family doctors are a rarity, and many Canadians have been left to navigate their health without proper support. This has created an atmosphere of desperation, where those who can afford private care are the only ones who receive treatment, further deepening the divide between the haves and have-nots.

Perhaps the most visible and tragic symbol of the collapse is the increasing number of Canadians living on the streets. Parks, once peaceful spaces for leisure, have become the last refuge for those who can no longer afford housing. The sight of families huddled together in tents, exposed to the elements, is a painful reminder of the social fabric tearing apart. At the same time, many Canadians are starving, while food insecurity becomes a pressing issue that the state is ill-equipped to address.

The cold winters now claim the lives of the homeless, a reminder of the harshness of nature when the mechanisms of society fail to provide the basic necessities. These are not just the effects of an economic downturn but the result of a systemic collapse in which every institution—healthcare, justice, education, and welfare—has faltered in its duty to serve the people. As the state withdraws from its role as provider, private entities and gangs step in to fill the void, often exploiting the situation for their own gain.

It is in this context that the slow collapse of Canada must be understood—not as an isolated event, but as part of a global pattern in which advanced societies, once secure in their success, begin to fragment and unravel under the weight of internal contradictions and external pressures.


Doug Fords Ontario 2028

In the sands of time, the empire of Canada had once flourished—a land of prosperity, bound by laws and governed by institutions that promised stability. But now, the machinery of civilization had ground to a halt. Like the great desert that had consumed the ancient civilizations of old, the land had become a place where survival, rather than thriving, had become the goal.

The cities, once bustling with life and commerce, now stood as empty shells, their grand facades ravaged by the forces of entropy and neglect. The slow collapse of the social order was like a sandstorm, eroding the very foundations of society one grain at a time. The people, once proud of their heritage and their institutions, now found themselves in a desperate struggle for dominance, as the old powers faded and new ones rose from the dust.

No longer were the streets ruled by the state. The justice that had once been swift and sure had long since dissipated into the ether, leaving only the strong to dictate the terms of law. The gangs, once considered a minor nuisance, now held the reigns of power. They were the new aristocrats, the warlords of this fractured world. In the absence of traditional authority, they had seized control, not with the force of armies but with the subtlety of politics, alliances, and threats.

The hospitals were no longer places of healing but fields of attrition, where the weak were left to die while the powerful, cloaked in the robes of indifference, walked past without a second glance. The doctors, those once revered for their knowledge, had long been overwhelmed, unable to treat the swelling tide of suffering. The system had collapsed, but no one had noticed the exact moment when the fall began. It had been a slow and subtle thing, like the withering of a great tree, its roots slowly rotting in the dark until the trunk itself could no longer stand.

In the deep silence of the winter months, when the cold came with a vengeance, the people found themselves at odds with nature, the elements now more unforgiving than the harshest ruler. The poor, without shelter, perished by the hundreds. The streets were littered with their bodies, forgotten by those who held the power to save them.

As the social fabric began to tear, the people turned to themselves, and to those who could provide. There was no need for the state to intervene, for the market of power had already shifted. Survival was no longer a matter of collective will but of individual prowess. The rise of the warlords, the gang leaders, had become the new order of things.

In the end, the slow collapse of Canadian society, like the slow death of a star, had been inevitable. It was not the apocalyptic destruction of an empire, but the slow, methodical crumbling of a great house, stone by stone, as its foundations rotted beneath the weight of its own contradictions. The future, now, was a thing of uncertainty, as the new lords of this fractured world forged their own destinies—one battle at a time.

The Case Against Voting Machines in Ontario Elections

 





The Case Against Voting Machines in Ontario Elections

Cyberattacks are on the rise in Canada. They hit hospitals, cities, and government offices. Even the best-protected systems fail. If hackers can cripple payroll systems and lock down hospitals, they can break into voting machines.

Security is the biggest risk. Hackers attack Toronto’s networks and government servers. Voting machines would be an even bigger prize. Foreign and domestic enemies would try to rig the results or shake public trust. A single breach could throw an election into doubt.

Reliability is another problem. Ontario’s digital systems fail often. Banks, hospitals, and public services have all gone dark because of glitches and cyberattacks. If it happens during an election, votes could be lost or changed. Paper ballots don’t have that problem. They can’t be hacked. They can be counted by hand. They leave a trail.

People already distrust institutions. Asking them to trust machines that have failed in other areas is a mistake. The current system works. It is secure. It is simple. There is no good reason to replace it with a riskier option.

Elections decide the fate of nations. Digital systems are too weak, and the price of failure is too high. Keep paper ballots. Keep elections safe. Keep democracy strong.

A small list of Canadian Failures for Cyber

Total Estimated Cost: At least $4.5 billion
Total People Affected: 15 million+ (excluding unknown values)

2014: Target Canada’s ERP Implementation Failure
Target’s expansion into Canada was marred by an unsuccessful Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) implementation. The flawed system led to inventory inaccuracies and supply chain issues, contributing to the company’s withdrawal from the Canadian market in 2015. (See Medium: “Target in Canada — An Example of an ERP Failure”)

2016: Phoenix Pay System Implementation

The Canadian federal government’s launch of the Phoenix pay system resulted in widespread payroll issues, affecting nearly half of Canada’s public servants through underpayments, overpayments, and non-payments. By July 2018, it was reported that the cost to taxpayers to fix Phoenix’s problems could reach a total of $2.2 billion by 2023. (See Wikipedia: “Phoenix Pay System”)

April 2023: DDoS Attacks on Canadian Government Websites

Multiple Canadian government websites, including those of the Prime Minister’s Office and Statistics Canada, experienced Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, rendering them inaccessible to visitors. (See Transport Canada: “Cybersecurity Incidents at Transport Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on Cornwall Community Hospital

Cornwall Community Hospital in Ontario suffered a cyber incident that disrupted its IT systems, affecting patient services and operations. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on Port Authorities

Websites for port authorities in Halifax, Montreal, and Quebec were targeted in cyberattacks, leading to temporary service disruptions. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on Ville d’Alma
The city of Alma in Quebec experienced a cyberattack that paralyzed its websites and servers, impacting municipal services. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on Canadian Nurses Association
The Canadian Nurses Association faced a cyberattack that compromised its IT infrastructure, affecting communications and member services. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on Constellation Software Inc.
Toronto-based Constellation Software Inc. reported a cyber incident, with a ransomware group claiming responsibility for the attack. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

February 2023: Cyberattack on Toronto-Dominion Bank
The Toronto-Dominion Bank experienced a cyberattack, reportedly by Russian hackers, affecting its online services. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

February 2023: Cyberattack on Indigo Books & Music
Indigo, a major Canadian bookstore chain, suffered a cyberattack that disrupted its online operations and led to potential data breaches. (See PacketLabs: “The Biggest Cyberattacks in Canada”)

March 2023: Cyberattack on City of Toronto
The City of Toronto confirmed unauthorized access to its data, with the Clop ransomware group claiming responsibility. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

March 2023: Cyberattack on Black & McDonald
Engineering firm Black & McDonald faced a cyberattack affecting its operations, including contracts for military bases and power plants. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on Uniboard Canada
Uniboard Canada, a manufacturer of wood products, was targeted in a cyberattack, impacting its IT systems and operations. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on Groupe Cloutier
Financial service provider Groupe Cloutier experienced a cybersecurity incident, affecting its IT infrastructure and client services. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on London Drugs
London Drugs, a pharmacy chain, reported a cybersecurity incident affecting its systems and customer services. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

April 2023: Cyberattack on Cégep régional de Lanaudière
The Cégep régional de Lanaudière in Quebec suffered a cyberattack that paralyzed its IT systems, disrupting educational services. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

May 2023: Cyberattack on Newfoundland Broadcasting Company
The Newfoundland Broadcasting Company experienced a cyberattack, affecting its broadcasting operations and services. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

May 2023: Cyberattack on Pharmascience
Montreal-based pharmaceutical company Pharmascience was targeted in a cyberattack, impacting its IT infrastructure and operations. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

June 2023: Cyberattack on Toronto District School Board (TDSB)
The Toronto District School Board launched an investigation into a suspected cyberattack on its IT systems, affecting educational services. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)

June 2023: Cyberattack on Mercku
Kitchener-based router maker Mercku’s support portal was hacked, leading to phishing attempts targeting its customers. (See KonBriefing: “Cyber Attacks in Canada”)


Friday, 28 February 2025

CIA notes Secret Club: Lady Gaga

 Secret Club: Lady Gaga





So Lady Gaga, right? The same Lady Gaga who once showed up to an awards show inside a giant egg, like some kind of avant-garde omelet. She’s got this beauty brand, Haus Labs, and now she’s teaming up with Klarna—the bank that turns "I can’t afford this" into "I can’t afford this, but slightly later." Together, they’ve opened The Studio in L.A.

It’s meant to be a space for “creativity and self-expression,” which could mean anything from making groundbreaking art to filming yet another “Get Ready With Me” video where someone talks about their trauma while applying concealer. But Gaga’s into it. She and Klarna picked two creators—Biddy and Tavaris 'Vari' Jefferson—to kick things off. Each gets ten grand and mentorship, which, in corporate-speak, means "Here’s some cash, now please be interesting online."

Gaga says she’s always cared about young artists, which is very Mother Monster of her. As for how they picked the creators, she gives one of those "we value kindness and brave self-expression" answers, which probably translates to "They have good engagement rates and won’t start Twitter feuds."

The Studio itself? It’s aggressively aesthetic. Reflective sculpture? Yes. Pink sofa? Naturally. Artsy lighting? Duh. There’s a kitchen, because why not, a bathroom that probably has better lighting than your entire apartment, and a lounge for people to pretend they’re brainstorming instead of scrolling TikTok.

Gaga’s personal favorite? The mirrored canopy, because nothing says self-reflection like literally staring at yourself.

And now, for the fine print.

Appendix: The Mentorship Details

  • Duration: Six months. Just long enough to make a difference, but not long enough to deal with an existential crisis.
  • Mentors: A mix of industry professionals, social media strategists, and probably at least one person who says "Disruptive" way too often.
  • Sessions: Biweekly meetings covering content strategy, branding, and the fine art of looking effortlessly cool while promoting a product.
  • Perks: Networking opportunities, access to industry events, and one-on-one guidance on turning "having an aesthetic" into "making actual money."
  • Expectations: Create original work at The Studio, be a walking Haus Labs advertisement, and—most importantly—tag Klarna in every post.

How to Sign Up:

Well, you’ve got two options, like when you choose your favorite coffee shop, but with far less caffeine.

  1. Visit The Studio’s Official Website: Yes, there’s an official website because, of course, there is. It’s not just a "I saw it on Instagram" thing. Navigate to the “Sign Up” section and fill in the application form. You’ll be asked to share some of your “work,” which, in influencer terms, is code for "Link to your most popular TikTok/Instagram/YouTube that makes you look amazing."

  2. Social Media Submission: If filling out forms isn’t your thing, and you prefer a more modern approach, post a video of your work (not a random clip of your cat) on Instagram or TikTok, tagging both @HausLabs and @Klarna, using the hashtag #TheStudioByKlarna. Don’t forget the extra points for lighting and flair—those mirrors aren’t going to reflect themselves.

  3. Wait for the Call: If you’re one of the lucky chosen few, you’ll get an email (or possibly a phone call, but let’s be real, it’ll probably be an email) inviting you to join The Studio. Don’t worry—Gaga’s got her eye on you… in a non-creepy way, of course.


So, get to it. Create, tag, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll be the next person getting a pink sofa and a $10K grant to influence the world—or at least your followers.

Wheel-Trans Service in Disarray

 Wheel-Trans Service in Disarray

Wheel-Trans service remains in a state of partial dysfunction. The system suffered a major breakdown on Wednesday, continued malfunctioning throughout Thursday, and persists into Friday. Since service schedules are printed in advance, they are proceeding with pre-existing trips as planned. If you booked a ride and require no changes, your journey will likely proceed. However, new bookings, confirmations, or modifications are entirely impossible.

Ironically, on the very day that Wheel-Trans collapsed due to an unspecified computer failure—whether caused by hacking, extortion, system failure, or a mere glitch—I had been warning about the dangers of conducting Ontario’s elections entirely via computer, without any human oversight or backup. The staff I spoke to laughed, unwavering in their confidence, seemingly incapable of recalling the many catastrophic failures that have cost Ontarians billions. It’s akin to someone being struck by a drunk driver, suffering only a broken leg, and then dismissing drunk driving as a serious issue—until the day their own child becomes a victim.

Everywhere, February is both yoke and liberation, a month adrift between purpose and pretense. Yet in its contradictions, in its grand unfolding, there remains one constant: humanity—ever striving, ever dreaming, ever caught between the weight of the past and the promise of what is yet to come.

—Ed Scholz, 2025 Pop Culture Blog





Sunday, 16 February 2025

 your perception that Bonnie Crombie, the leader of the Ontario Liberal Party, appears less prominent in media coverage. However, recent activities indicate her active engagement in the political arena. In the past week, Crombie has held multiple press conferences addressing critical issues:

  • Healthcare Initiatives: On February 12, 2025, she outlined a comprehensive plan to combat "hallway healthcare," emphasizing investments in healthcare workers and infrastructure.

  • Economic Policies: On February 11, 2025, Crombie unveiled strategies aimed at reducing youth unemployment and restoring affordable homeownership, targeting economic challenges faced by younger Ontarians.

These events have been covered by various media outlets, including video reports available online. For instance, a press conference focusing on healthcare was published four days ago.

Despite these efforts, it's possible that media coverage has not been as extensive or prominent as anticipated, leading to the perception of her being "invisible." Media focus can vary due to numerous factors, including competing news events and editorial decisions.

For more detailed information on Bonnie Crombie's recent activities and policy announcements, you may visit the official Ontario Liberal Party website.

Additionally, to gain direct insight into her recent statements and policy positions, you might find the following video informative:

Friday, 14 February 2025

 

Year Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Events World Events Notable Artists
1995 First VS show at the Plaza Hotel in NY. O.J. Simpson not guilty. Models: Steph. Seym., Ver. Web. Photo: Russ. Jam.
1996 Show gains traction. Dolly the sheep cloned. Models: Tyra Ban., Kar. Muld. Photo: Herb Rit.
1997 Naomi Campbell walks. Hong Kong returns to China. Models: Nao. Camp., Hel. Chris. Art Dir: Edw. Raze.
1998 Fantasy Bra introduced. Google founded. Models: Tyra Ban., Hei. Kl. Photo: Mario Testin.
1999 First online broadcast. Y2K fears. Models: Hei. Klum, Lae. Cas. Creat. Dir: Ed Raze.
2000 Gisele wears $15M bra. Sydney Olympics. Models: Gis. Bünd., Dan. Pešto.
2001 First televised show. 9/11 attacks. Models: Gis. Bünd., Adr. Lim. Photo: Mario Testin.
2002 Angel Wings introduced. Euro introduced. Models: Kar. Kurk., Hei. Kl. Art Dir: Tod. Thoma.
2003 Show moves to CBS. Space Shuttle Columbia. Models: Ale. Ambr., Kar. Kurkov.
2004 “Angels Across America”. Facebook launched. Models: Tyra Ban., Adr. Lim.
2005 Fantasy Bra $12.5M. YouTube launched. Models: Nao. Camp., Sel. Eban. Creat. Dir: Tod. Thoma.
2006 Justin Timberlake performs. Twitter launched. Models: Iza. Goul., Mir. Ker. Photo: Pat. Demarchelie.
2007 VS PINK debuts. iPhone introduced. Models: Mir. Kerr, Ros. Hunt.-Whit.
2008 Adriana Lima's $5M bra. Obama elected. Models: Dou. Kroes, Beh. Prin. Art Dir: Sop. Neophitou-Apostolo.
2009 “Runway Angels”. Michael Jackson passes. Models: Cha. Iman, Mar. Mill.
2010 Katy Perry performs. WikiLeaks documents. Models: Can. Swan., Eri. Heath.
2011 Miranda Kerr's bra. Bin Laden killed. Models: Lil. Aldr., Lin. Ellings.
2012 Rihanna & Bruno Mars. Curiosity Rover on Mars. Models: Joa. Smal., Bar. Palv. Photo: Mario Sorrent.
2013 Taylor Swift performs. Mandela passes. Models: Can. Swan. (Bra), Beh. Prin.
2014 Show in London. MH370 disappears. Models: Kar. Klos., Jos. Skriv.
2015 Kendall & Gigi. Paris attacks. Models: Tay. Hil., Ste. Maxwel.
2016 Show in Paris. Brexit. Models: Ken. Jen., Bel. Had. Photo: Ranki.
2017 Show in Shanghai. #MeToo. Models: Min. Xi, Liu We.
2018 Ratings decline. Royal Wedding. Models: Win. Har., Bar. Palv.
2019 Show canceled. COVID-19. Creat. Dir: Mon. Mitr.
2020 No show. BLM protests. N/A
2021 VS rebrands. Taliban in Afghanistan. Models: Pal. Els., Val. Sampai.
2022 New vision. Queen Elizabeth II passes. Photo: Ine. & Vinood.
2023 “World Tour”. ChatGPT. Models: Adu. Ake., Hai. Bie. Fash. Dir: Rau. Martine.

Wednesday, 5 February 2025

Unveiling the Dual-Natured Pain Scale: A Compass for Chronic Warriors and Acute Encounters Abstract Pain, a relentless foe, comes in two flavors: the fleeting sting and the persistent siege. This paper unveils a groundbreaking Dual-Natured Pain Scale, a battle plan that standardizes discomfort across both timeframes. By decoding the impact of both momentary jabs and long-term bombardments, we offer a unified language for clinicians and warriors (patients) to navigate the battlefield of pain. This scale, a versatile weapon, also distinguishes sharp, dull, and throbbing attacks, allowing for targeted pain management strategies and a clearer path to victory. Introduction Pain, the ever-present adversary, wears many disguises. It can be a swift ambush (acute pain) or a relentless siege (chronic pain). Both inflict damage, not just physical, but also mental. Studies, like those by Eccleston and Crombez (2001), reveal how pain, especially the chronic variety, can wreak havoc on our minds, leading to anxiety and depression. This paper introduces a revolutionary weapon: the Dual-Natured Pain Scale. This scale integrates both timeframes (instant and continuous), providing a comprehensive map of the pain landscape, crucial for effective pain management. Methods The Dual-Natured Pain Scale, a 10-point war chest, treats both immediate and ongoing pain as equally important allies in understanding the enemy. It analyzes the material and mental impact of pain while categorizing its types (sharp, dull, throbbing) across all levels. The Dual-Natured Pain Scale: Decoding the Enemy's Tactics Level 1 – Minor Skirmish Material Impact: A mere annoyance, easily dismissed. Mental Aspect: A mild poke, no mental strain. Pain Description: Sharp: A fleeting pinprick. Dull: A faint ache, like a distant echo. Throbbing: A gentle pulse, barely noticeable. Level 10 – Total Lockdown Material Impact: Complete incapacitation, rendering you a prisoner of pain. Mental Aspect: Pain consumes all thought, leaving only a desperate struggle to survive. Pain Description: Sharp: Torturous spikes, unrelenting and agonizing. Dull: A crushing force, immobilizing and suffocating. Throbbing: Blinding waves that drown out everything else. Discussion Research, like Gatchel et al. (2007), reveals that both acute and chronic pain can be mental bullies, disrupting our well-being. Sharp, instant pain triggers the fight-or-flight response, while chronic, dull pain can lead to chronic mental battles like depression. A pain scale that understands both types and durations empowers us to develop more effective strategies to defeat this enemy. Imagine warriors (patients) using this scale to track their progress, charting the enemy's movements over time. Treede et al. (2015) highlight the vast army of chronic pain sufferers – 20% globally. This scale, a valuable weapon in their arsenal, empowers them to fight back. Conclusion The Dual-Natured Pain Scale seeks to bridge the gap between the lightning strikes of acute pain and the relentless siege of chronic pain. By standardizing the language of pain across timeframes, it empowers both warriors and clinicians to wage a more effective war. Future studies will test its effectiveness in the field, but one thing is certain: this scale is a beacon of hope, offering a clearer path to victory over the enemy – pain. References

Monday, 3 February 2025

 Google Analytics with your Blogger blog! It's a powerful tool to understand your audience. Here's a breakdown of how to set it up for free:

1. Create a Google Analytics Account (if you don't have one)

  • Go to the Google Analytics website: https://analytics.google.com/
  • Click "Start for free" or "Sign in" if you already have a Google account.
  • Follow the prompts to create an account and set up your first property (which will be your blog).

2. Get Your Google Analytics Tracking ID

  • Once you've created your account and property, you'll need your Tracking ID. This is a code that starts with "G-" and is unique to your blog.  
  • Here's how to find it:
    • In your Google Analytics account, click "Admin" (it's usually at the bottom left).  
    • Under "Property", select "Data Streams".  
    • Click on your Blogger site's data stream.  
    • Copy the "Measurement ID" (it looks like G-XXXXXXXX).  

3. Add the Tracking ID to Your Blogger Blog

  • Now, go to your Blogger dashboard.
  • Click "Settings" in the left-hand menu.  
  • Under "Basic", find the "Google Analytics Measurement ID" field.  
  • Paste your Tracking ID (the "G-" code) into that field.  
  • Click "Save".

Important Notes:

  • Theme: Make sure you're using a Blogger theme that supports Google Analytics. Most modern themes do, but older ones might not.
  • Data Delay: It can take up to 24 hours for data to start showing up in your Google Analytics reports.  
  • GA4: Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is the latest version of Google Analytics. The steps above are for setting up GA4, which is recommended.  

That's it! You've now connected Google Analytics to your Blogger blog. You can log in to your Google Analytics account to see all sorts of data about your visitors, like:

  • How many people are visiting your blog
  • Where they're coming from (search engines, social media, etc.)  
  • What pages they're looking at
  • How long they're staying on your blog



 A Modest Rebuke to the Astonishingly Misinformed Mr. Mason

It is with the gravest concern for the state of factual discourse that I take up my quill to address the bewildering pronouncement of one Mr. Dave Mason, who, in a dazzling display of Olympian ignorance, has declared that Sir Elton John has never so much as set foot in a domicile beyond the verdant shores of England. One must marvel at the confidence with which Mr. Mason has flung himself into the chasm of public error, as though the abyss itself would catch him and whisper, "Fear not, for truth is what you feel it to be."

Were his assertion no more than the misstep of a common buffoon, a slip of the tongue from an inebriated reveler, or the delusion of a man who believes his dreams to be history, one might let it pass with a chuckle and an affectionate shake of the head. But no, Mr. Mason has proclaimed his folly with the zeal of a medieval inquisitor, armed not with facts but with the cudgel of obstinacy, beating against the gates of reason with all the force of a damp sponge.

Let us, then, conduct a brief and charitable education for Mr. Mason, lest his error be mistaken for wisdom by the unwary. First, we must call forth the evidence—documents, deeds, and declarations—each a damning indictment against his thesis. Lo! In the sunlit grandeur of Mont Boron, in Nice, stands Elton John's French villa, a monument to taste and refinement, defying with its very bricks the absurd notion that he has never possessed a dwelling beyond England’s hedgerows. Perhaps Mr. Mason believes this villa to be a mirage, conjured by Mediterranean heat, but alas! It is listed among the great singer’s residences, an indelible blemish upon the parchment of his fable.

Should we take pity on Mr. Mason and assume he merely overlooked France? We cannot. For then we must escort him to the shores of North America, where upon the vibrant avenues of Atlanta, Georgia, Sir Elton reclines in his penthouse, overlooking a city that would, by Mr. Mason’s reckoning, exist only in the fevered imagination of cartographers. There he has dwelled for years, amidst his vast collection of photographs, each one perhaps whispering to him, "Dave Mason knows not what he speaks."

And let us not forget the stately majesty of Toronto, where Elton John once graced The Bridle Path with his presence, his home a testament to luxury in a country that, if we are to trust Mr. Mason’s narrative, exists solely as a figment of collective delusion. Perhaps he believes Canada to be but a northern extension of Essex, and the people therein to be Englishmen who have tragically lost their way in the snow.

Indeed, if we are to follow Mr. Mason’s logic, one might propose that Elton John is in fact a being of spectral quality, bound forever to the green fields of England, incapable of materializing elsewhere save as an apparition. One might imagine that when he performs in Las Vegas, he must slip between realms, a wraith appearing only under the limelight before dissolving into mist, his corporeal form tethered to some oak-lined estate in Berkshire.

One is left to wonder, then, why the noble Mr. Mason insists upon his preposterous claim. Is it a jest? A test of our collective patience? A declaration of war against the very concept of geography? Or is he, like the flat-earthers of old, simply a man too enchanted with his own fictions to let reality intrude? Whatever the case, we must urge the man, with the utmost compassion, to lay down his sword of error and embrace the warm, illuminating glow of evidence.

For while we may forgive a man for misplacing his spectacles, or even, in times of great distress, for misplacing his trousers, we cannot so easily excuse the misplacement of truth itself.





Everywhere, February is both yoke and liberation, a month that drifts between purpose and pretense. But even in its contradictions, in its great unfolding story, there is a constant: humanity, ever striving, ever dreaming, ever caught between the past and the promise of what is yet to come. -Ed Scholz, 2025 Pop Culture Blog

 



Instagram's achievement system, which incentivized content creation, has recently experienced disruptions. Many users have reported the sudden disappearance of the "Achievements" tab from their professional dashboards, leaving them puzzled about its absence (Reddit, 2025).

As of now, Instagram has not provided an official explanation for this change. It is possible that the platform is reevaluating or updating its features, leading to temporary or permanent removal of certain elements. Instagram has a history of modifying or discontinuing creator-focused programs. Recently, the platform ended a program that allowed creators to earn money from ads placed between content on their profiles (Business Insider, 2025).

For those seeking solutions, some users have attempted troubleshooting steps, such as updating the app or reinstalling it, though these methods have yielded mixed results. Additionally, online discussions and tutorials, like the one available on YouTube, offer guidance on addressing this issue (YouTube, 2025).

Social media platforms constantly evolve, with features appearing and disappearing as companies adapt to changing dynamics. To stay informed, users should monitor official Instagram announcements and reputable news sources.

Sources:

 Instagram's achievement system, designed to incentivize content creation, has recently experienced disruptions.any users have reported the sudden disappearance of the "Achievements" tab from their professional dashboards, leaving them puzzled about its absence.citeturn0search0 s of now, Instagram has not provided an official explanation for this change.t's possible that the platform is reevaluating or updating its features, leading to temporary or permanent removal of certain elements.otably, Instagram has a history of modifying or discontinuing creator-focused programs.or instance, the platform recently ended a program that allowed creators to earn money from ads placed between content on their profiles.citeturn0news10 or those seeking solutions, some users have attempted troubleshooting steps, such as updating the app or reinstalling it, though these methods have yielded mixed results.dditionally, online discussions and tutorials, like the one available on YouTube, offer guidance on addressing this issue.citeturn0search1 n the ever-evolving landscape of social media platforms, features come and go as companies strive to enhance user experience and adapt to changing dynamics.t's advisable to stay updated through official Instagram channels or trusted news outlets for the latest information on such developments. navlistInstagram Ends Creator Ad Revenue Programturn0news10

Friday, 31 January 2025

 




The CIA Reading Room is an online archive maintained by the Central Intelligence Agency, officially known as the CIA FOIA Electronic Reading Room. It serves as a publicly accessible repository of declassified documents that have been released under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Key Features:

  1. Declassified Documents – Contains records on historical intelligence operations, covert activities, Cold War espionage, UFO reports, mind control experiments (such as MKUltra), and other government secrets.
  2. Searchable Database – Users can search by keywords, topics, or specific document releases.
  3. Notable Collections – Includes the CREST database (CIA Records Search Tool), which holds millions of pages of formerly classified material.
  4. JFK and UFO Files – Houses heavily requested documents, including those related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy, Project Stargate (psychic espionage), and UFO investigations.
  5. Black Budget Insights – Offers glimpses into CIA funding and covert expenditures.

You can access it directly through the CIA’s official website:
https://www.cia.gov/readingroom

Wednesday, 15 January 2025

 Here’s the content grouped by themes for clarity:


Pro-Contest Arguments

  • Stuart Low:
    "Competitions provide photographers opportunities like exhibitions, showcasing in books, and media exposure. Most photographers can’t afford to fund these themselves. With a £30 fee, we’ve helped 150-200 photographers gain visibility. Not all contests are scams—many are well-structured and beneficial."
  • Gilberthonaniephotography:
    "Word of mouth is the biggest seller, but social media exposure comes second. Contests can help with both."
  • Chrisalexander2478:
    "James, another great video and great advice. Thanks!"

Anti-Contest Sentiments

  • Daijomedia:
    "If you have to pay for the contest, it’s just fleecing the photographer. Avoid at all costs."
  • Bryanthomas007:
    "Well said, James! I avoid them like the plague."
  • Rgrayphotog:
    "Submitting to magazines sounds exciting, but fees add up, and you’re pressured to buy expensive copies. It’s ridiculous when you step back and see the cost."
  • Adventure9606:
    "I’ve never had a client ask if I’ve won awards or what camera I use. My portfolio or website speaks for itself."
  • WillFaulknerPhotography:
    "Entering once leads to endless marketing emails. I’ve stopped entering competitions and removed my history from my website."
  • Hartgetzen7867:
    "PDN magazine’s contest was just a rights grab. It used to be an excellent magazine with a great editor, but the contests ruined its reputation."

Suggestions and Constructive Criticism

  • Kimmimaloney:
    "I’d pay for a portfolio review for real feedback, but I don’t know where to find one. Thank you for making these videos!"
  • Monsieurgolem3392:
    "Lack of feedback from contests—no clear ranking or constructive insights—is frustrating."

General Validation of Talent Outside Contests

  • Mikemiville3009:
    "Validation comes from happy clients, not subjective contests. Great people skills and client love outweigh portfolios judged by strangers."
  • Getshotbybrian:
    "Exactly. My bank account is my critique. I prefer winning 'green' awards!"
  • Michaelmuir4039:
    "Your talent is superb, James."
  • HotBrassandBullets:
    "In my next life, I want to be like you. Meanwhile, I’ll just watch your videos."
  • Justingraftonstudios:
    "I took 3rd place once in something."

Appreciation and Inspiration

  • Charlyduque8521:
    "Hola Sr. James, solo quiero que sepa que lo admiro mucho y me encanta su estilo, para mí es usted inspiración!! Saludos desde Monterrey, México. 🙌"
  • StephenDavisMonsignor:
    "Great advice. Appreciate your perspective!"
  • Donsherrill5069:
    "GREAT ADVICE AS ALWAYS."
  • Tammicook40:
    "Where can I send you a photo I did?"

These themes capture the diverse opinions on photography contests, blending critique with appreciation.

 Here’s a structured chart with relevant metrics and a focus on Canadian context for healthcare safety and patient identification processes:

Category Details Canadian Context/Relevant Metrics
Incident Overview David Wells misidentified as hospital roommate, Mike Beehler, leading to wrongful withdrawal of life support. Canadian hospitals emphasize patient ID using at least two identifiers (e.g., name, DOB).
Critical Error Staff consulted the wrong family for consent to withdraw life support. 1 in 18 Canadian hospitalizations involve a patient safety incident (CIHI).
Cause of Error - Failure to verify patient identity.- Miscommunication among hospital staff. Misidentification occurs in 9% of Canadian healthcare errors (CPSI).
Outcome Wells’ death due to premature removal of life support. Canada has a 28% preventable harm rate in adverse healthcare events.
Legal Action Family filed a lawsuit citing negligence, wrongful death, and emotional trauma. Canadian malpractice claims often focus on communication and protocol failures (CMPA).
Ethical Concerns - Breach of trust and professional responsibility.- Violation of patient safety standards. Canadian Patient Safety Institute advocates for zero-tolerance on ID errors.
Hospital Protocols - Failure to follow standard ID protocols before critical decisions.- Lack of adequate safeguards. Best practices require two-point ID confirmation and family verification.
Potential Improvements - Implement biometric ID or barcode wristbands.- Mandatory staff training in crisis communication. Canadian hospitals increasingly adopt digital solutions like patient barcoding.
Impact on Families - Wells’ family suffered wrongful death trauma.- Beehler’s family faced emotional distress. Emotional harm is a key aspect in Canadian medical lawsuits (CMPA).
Wider Implications - Highlights systemic issues in patient identification.- Need for robust verification systems. Canadian provinces encourage system-wide reporting of near misses to improve safety.

Sunday, 5 January 2025

 The longest non-technical word in major dictionaries is floccinaucinihilipilification at 29 letters. Consisting of a series of Latin words meaning "nothing" and defined as "the act of estimating something as worthless"; its usage has been recorded as far back as 1741.

 Blog primary


Social Media, 


How to, social impact etc. 


Sure! Here’s an inspiring blog post idea for your primary blog:


Harnessing the Power of Social Media for Positive Change

In today's world, social media is not just a place to share selfies or memes. It’s a platform for powerful transformation, for building communities that inspire, educate, and empower. But how do we use it effectively to create real social impact?

#1 – The Power of Your Voice

Every post, tweet, and story has the potential to shape the narrative. When we speak out on causes we care about—whether it’s climate change, mental health, or human rights—we contribute to a global dialogue. Your voice matters, and even small actions can snowball into massive change. Social media allows us to amplify our message, reach people who may be thousands of miles away, and connect with like-minded individuals. Never underestimate the influence of one person speaking out. It’s the first step to a larger movement.

#2 – Build a Community, Not Just an Audience

Creating social impact isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about building a space where people can come together, share experiences, and support each other. The relationships you foster with your followers are what create lasting change. Respond to comments, engage in meaningful discussions, and offer genuine value. Turn your online presence into a community that actively contributes to a cause, rather than just observing from the sidelines.

#3 – Educate and Empower

Social media gives us unprecedented access to information. Use this platform to educate your audience about the issues that matter most. Share resources, tell stories, and provide actionable steps for your followers to make an impact. Whether it’s through a blog post, a video, or a simple infographic, help people understand not just the problem, but the solutions as well. Empower others to take action in their own lives. Education is the foundation for sustainable change.

#4 – Consistency Is Key

Social impact doesn’t happen overnight, and neither does growing your social media influence for good. Consistency is crucial. Whether it’s a weekly post, regular updates, or daily engagement, showing up consistently builds trust and credibility. The more people see you showing up for a cause, the more they’ll be inspired to do the same.

#5 – Lead by Example

Lastly, the best way to create impact is to lead by example. Walk the talk. When you show your audience that you’re actively living out the values you preach, they’ll be more likely to follow suit. Share your own journey, your challenges, and your victories. Authenticity is the bedrock of trust, and when people trust you, they’ll be motivated to make a change alongside you.

Conclusion: Together, We Can Change the World

Social media can be a tool for remarkable transformation, but it requires intentional use. By using your voice, building community, educating others, staying consistent, and leading by example, you can create a positive social impact. The digital age has given us the power to be change-makers in a way that was once impossible. Now it’s up to us to use that power wisely.

#GreatguyTV #Scholx #Scholz #SocialImpact #CommunityBuilding #VoiceForChange