Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

snakeweasel

abacomike said:

I was just given a bottle of "White Walker by Johnny Walker" Scotch as a gift.  It's a brand new entry into the blended scotch market and is hard to find for the moment.  It runs about $35.00 a bottle at a good discount liquor store.  I am debating whether I should open it and try it or just give it as a gift to the Service Manager at the Mercedes Dealer who did my 1st year service "gratis".  I am a single malt scotch drinker when I do drink so I don't know whether or not it would be a waste to open the bottle and find out that I don't like it.

Has anyone tried this new entry into the scotch market or heard of it?  Would be interesting to hear some feedback as to what I should do.  Thanks.

Personally I find Johnny Walker a bit overpriced, it is easy to get just as good or better whiskey at a lower pricepoint.

If you are strictly a single malt drinker my advice would be to pass it on to that service manager, or anyone else you want to befriend. Also giving it to the service manager could help you down the road 

driver100

OK, here it is, the moment you have been waiting for.
My new image....no more striped T-shirt burning an image in your brains
See my next post
>
>
>
>........

Michaell

driver100 said:

xwesx said:

Michaell said:

Wanted to give an update to my license plate saga.

Last night, my doorbell rang. It was a member of the local PD, holding the missing plate.

Turns out it wasn't stolen, it had been knocked off at the car wash I went to before dinner. Apparently, not only was it knocked off, but it was swiped to the side of the bay, which is why I didn't see it when I went back that night.

Still, cost me $8 to get new plates issued. I coulda gone to Chick-Fil-A with that money instead!

That's either some seriously flimsy metal or one helluva car wash! I'm pretty sure you said that the screws were still in the car, yes?

Was that a car wash or a wind tunnel?

Don't know, but I'm pretty certain I won't be using it again.

And yes, the screws were still intact.

driver100

driver100

snakeweasel said:

abacomike said:

I was just given a bottle of "White Walker by Johnny Walker" Scotch as a gift.  It's a brand new entry into the blended scotch market and is hard to find for the moment.  It runs about $35.00 a bottle at a good discount liquor store.  I am debating whether I should open it and try it or just give it as a gift to the Service Manager at the Mercedes Dealer who did my 1st year service "gratis".  I am a single malt scotch drinker when I do drink so I don't know whether or not it would be a waste to open the bottle and find out that I don't like it.

Has anyone tried this new entry into the scotch market or heard of it?  Would be interesting to hear some feedback as to what I should do.  Thanks.

Personally I find Johnny Walker a bit overpriced, it is easy to get just as good or better whiskey at a lower pricepoint.

If you are strictly a single malt drinker my advice would be to pass it on to that service manager, or anyone else you want to befriend. Also giving it to the service manager could help you down the road 

or snake will take it off your hands!

stickguy

Get yourself some help man. Quick.

venture

abacomike said:

I was just given a bottle of "White Walker by Johnny Walker" Scotch as a gift.  It's a brand new entry into the blended scotch market and is hard to find for the moment.  It runs about $35.00 a bottle at a good discount liquor store.  I am debating whether I should open it and try it or just give it as a gift to the Service Manager at the Mercedes Dealer who did my 1st year service "gratis".  I am a single malt scotch drinker when I do drink so I don't know whether or not it would be a waste to open the bottle and find out that I don't like it.

Has anyone tried this new entry into the scotch market or heard of it?  Would be interesting to hear some feedback as to what I should do.  Thanks.

That's the tribute to Game of Thrones show.

From the web site:
In celebration of the final season of the critically-acclaimed HBO series, Game of Thrones, Johnnie Walker is proud to introduce White Walker by Johnnie Walker.
This new blend perfectly reminds Johnnie Walker and Game of Thrones fans alike that "Winter is Here." The limited edition bottle utilizes thermochromic ink to give fans a frosty surprise message when frozen. With flavor notes like caramelized sugar, vanilla, and fresh red berries, White Walker by Johnnie Walker makes for a delicious serve. The new blend is best served ice cold, inspired by the White Walkers beyond The Wall.

abacomike

So far, it looks like Mike, my service manager, is getting the limited edition white bottle of scotch as a Christmas gift.

Mr_Shiftright

driver100 said:

jmonroe1 said:

Mr_Shiftright said:

Yeah, it's a lot like arbitration rather than "real" court. I think the limit on the show is $5000 in dispute. I suspect it's all rather scripted but I do find it interesting nonetheless. "

She also gets on my nerves, however.

Want to hear something funny (or tragic, perhaps). In a recent nationwide survey, fully 10% think Judge Judy is on the Supreme Court.

And the more troubling thing is that these people are in the voting booth next to us.

jmonroe

I think Judge Judy gave me the wisdom to see through a certain individual relative who was a conman. The show provides great training for ascertaining who is telling the truth and who isn't. Of course you do need a certain amount of intelligence to absorb that underlying layer the show provides. If you just watch it and think it is about two people arguing about which dog bit which dog you won't gain knowledge.....if you watch and listen for clues you may figure out whose story is more credible. And that is her real talent, getting to the truth.

I would have thought that such things can't really be taught. The gullible often remain so for a lifetime. I could spot a con man since I was about 8 years old.

snakeweasel

driver100 said:

abacomike said:

I was just given a bottle of "White Walker by Johnny Walker" Scotch as a gift.  It's a brand new entry into the blended scotch market and is hard to find for the moment.  It runs about $35.00 a bottle at a good discount liquor store.  I am debating whether I should open it and try it or just give it as a gift to the Service Manager at the Mercedes Dealer who did my 1st year service "gratis".  I am a single malt scotch drinker when I do drink so I don't know whether or not it would be a waste to open the bottle and find out that I don't like it.

Has anyone tried this new entry into the scotch market or heard of it?  Would be interesting to hear some feedback as to what I should do.  Thanks.

Personally I find Johnny Walker a bit overpriced, it is easy to get just as good or better whiskey at a lower pricepoint.

If you are strictly a single malt drinker my advice would be to pass it on to that service manager, or anyone else you want to befriend. Also giving it to the service manager could help you down the road 

or snake will take it off your hands!

I'm more of a bourbon man myself.

berri

Then there is Judge Marilyn (who I think took over for Judge Wapner). Watch her start out calm and collective and then the New Yorker in her winds up ...

xwesx

fintail said:

I hope the kid had a list of priors a mile long, and it wasn't just another overcompensated lucky generation judge without self-awareness trying to make an example. Crime and punishment in this country can be pretty laughable, or cringe-worthy.

Regarding license plates, I see bent plates on rental cars all the time, I always figured it was something to do with a high pressure/rough car wash.

Yes, quite true! If the judge goes overboard on sentencing, usually the message it conveys is, "Why get busted for something measly? Next time, go big or go home!"

ab348

abacomike said:

So far, it looks like Mike, my service manager, is getting the limited edition white bottle of scotch as a Christmas gift.

I would also use it as a gift. JW is not the greatest.

ab348

driver100 said:

I like the mask. It keeps us from seeing the only thing in the old picture that was worse than the striped shirt.

abacomike

Well, at least I got 2 days for heated massages in the car due to the cold weather. Tomorrow, upper 70’s and the next 7-8 days in the 80’s again.

One of the problems about living here in the winter is that one day it’s in the 80’s and the next day in the 40’s and 50’s, then back to the 80’s the following day.  Tough life, isn’t it? 

snakeweasel

driver100 said:

So that's why we never see you and Batman at the same place at the same time.

I also see that you cut the budget on your Cape crusader duds to afford that Benz. Times a hard aren't they?

driver100

Mr_Shiftright said:

driver100 said:

jmonroe1 said:

Mr_Shiftright said:

Yeah, it's a lot like arbitration rather than "real" court. I think the limit on the show is $5000 in dispute. I suspect it's all rather scripted but I do find it interesting nonetheless. "

She also gets on my nerves, however.

Want to hear something funny (or tragic, perhaps). In a recent nationwide survey, fully 10% think Judge Judy is on the Supreme Court.

And the more troubling thing is that these people are in the voting booth next to us.

jmonroe

I think Judge Judy gave me the wisdom to see through a certain individual relative who was a conman. The show provides great training for ascertaining who is telling the truth and who isn't. Of course you do need a certain amount of intelligence to absorb that underlying layer the show provides. If you just watch it and think it is about two people arguing about which dog bit which dog you won't gain knowledge.....if you watch and listen for clues you may figure out whose story is more credible. And that is her real talent, getting to the truth.

I would have thought that such things can't really be taught. The gullible often remain so for a lifetime. I could spot a con man since I was about 8 years old.

I respectfully disagree. I have read and studied a lot of material regarding conmen. Our society is based on trust. Civilized people trust other people, especially relatives and people who seem to be friendly. There is no shame or guilt if you are taken in by a conman, they use your trust against you. Trust keeps us civilized. You do have to watch for signs, and I did spot them early on. My first hint came when we played a game (not tennis but a similar game they should have won easily) against him and his wife, and they let us win. It was just a bit much and I had to question his motives. Then a few more lies and excuses and my thoughts were confirmed. But, I think watching the judge programs made me more aware.....a lot of people can lie and it means nothing to them, they say whatever they have to say and try not to get caught. If you ask the right questions and keep at it, their story eventually won't add up. And, if you are dealing with a conman who is a narcissist or a psychopath, no amount of reasoning or appealing to their sense of decency will help......they have no remorse, no sympathy, no feelings of guilt.

snakeweasel

abacomike said:

Well, at least I got 2 days for heated massages in the car due to the cold weather. Tomorrow, upper 70’s and the next 7-8 days in the 80’s again.

One of the problems about living here in the winter is that one day it’s in the 80’s and the next day in the 40’s and 50’s, then back to the 80’s the following day.  Tough life, isn’t it? 

Make those temperature changes all in the same day and it sounds like springtime here. 

driver100

ab348 said:

driver100 said:

I like the mask. It keeps us from seeing the only thing in the old picture that was worse than the striped shirt.

OK, ab and ewesx (who gave an lol) go into my little black book.
btw,,,,,,that ewesx looks like a code word for something that should be X-rated around here. Still trying to figure out what those letters unjumbled spell.

driver100

snakeweasel said:

driver100 said:

So that's why we never see you and Batman at the same place at the same time.

I also see that you cut the budget on your Cape crusader duds to afford that Benz. Times a hard aren't they

?

When I went into retirement I gave up the Batmobile....cost too much to keep it on the road. And, I had to cut back on expenses.

explorerx4

Driver, When you've find yourself in a hole(picture with grey striped shirt), the way to get out is not to keep digging deeper.

Michaell

snakeweasel said:

abacomike said:

Well, at least I got 2 days for heated massages in the car due to the cold weather. Tomorrow, upper 70’s and the next 7-8 days in the 80’s again.

One of the problems about living here in the winter is that one day it’s in the 80’s and the next day in the 40’s and 50’s, then back to the 80’s the following day.  Tough life, isn’t it? 

Make those temperature changes all in the same day and it sounds like springtime here. 

Huh - that's what I was thinking.

Went to Target last Saturday - car thermometer read 61 on my drive there. 20 minutes at Target, and it read 44 on the drive home.

[Deleted User]

fezo said:

driver100 said:

Apparently this Mazda 3 is on display. Is this the car for people who don't want to be seen and who don't want to see out?

That's a shame. It certainly appears to make the hatch less functional, in addition to a great deal less attractive.

Killer is it sure sounds like they significantly improved the mechanical end of things. How about a 2019 3 hatch on the 2018 body. THAT I'd like.

I agree. I'm not a fan of the new styling and the I think the large blind spot could be a safety concern. I really do like Mazda and want them to succeed, but I think the new styling is a turnoff.

xwesx

driver100 said:

OK, ab and ewesx (who gave an lol) go into my little black book.
btw,,,,,,that ewesx looks like a code word for something that should be X-rated around here. Still trying to figure out what those letters unjumbled spell.

Humor is a double-edged sword around here!

So, no real code to the handle. I used '-Wes-' as my online handle since 1995, and this website did not allow the dashes, so I just replaced them with 'x' on each end. Really, it's just Wes; the rest is filler.

[Deleted User]

bwia said:

Speaking of Entiltlement. Are Tesla Model 3 owners behaving worse than BMW or Mercedes owners? Here is a quick peek at the discussions going on in a Tesla forum:

"So I've heard these stories about crazy service centers. I showed up to get warranty work expecting craziness.

What I did not expect were Model 3 owners seemingly throwing tantrums at the extremely patient Tesla staff. They had about 6 or 7 temp workers directing traffic and moving cars. They were standing outside in the rain in 33F degree weather. Props to them.

1 after another new model 3 owners were coming in and just losing their cool just a little bit too quickly. One guy started screaming at a Tesla service girl because his autopilot wasn't activated after 24 hours. She looked him in the eye after he stopped yelling and said "Sir, I'm here to help you. I'm on your side. Let me look into this for you." Then went way out of her way to make sure it was activated ASAP.

Gee whiz guys - let's all chill out! Nothing is that important. You will get your autopilot. You purchasing a car that's more expensive than you normally would does not give you the right to treat others like garbage-class."

Here is an other "…"The entitlement I've seen from some Model 3 owners is hilarious... You couldn't afford a Tesla before they made a "cheap" one but yet you'd think they just bought a fully loaded Model S/X P100DL...

I had an encounter at a supercharger recently with a Model 3 owner who wanted me to unplug from my A post so he could charge faster on his B post and proceeded to explain to me that I have no idea how superchargers work and that Model 3's should get first priority anyhow, blah, blah, blah... I tuned him out and stayed plugged in until I was ready to go... I really wanted to shout back "if it weren't for early adopters like myself and many, many others, you wouldn't even have a Model 3 to plug in"...
More at https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/just-left-the-dedham-ma-sc-people-were-loosing-their-t.135740/

Wow. I'm glad I didn't run into any of those issues when I picked up my Model 3. The staff was super friendly and the customers were beyond excited to pickup their new rides. No negativity whatsoever.

It seems like patience in general is at all-time lows across the board. I'm not sure how to change it other than not contribute to the problem, but I'd sure like to see a return to more civility.

You guys might recall that I'm a bit of a fanatic about detailing my cars. I noticed the Tesla factory or delivery center had compounded the paint, but I knew it could look better, so I've started polishing the paint to bring out that beautiful black gloss. I did decide to have clear bra installed on the high-impact front facing areas after our rough drive home from Utah earlier this week. The Subaru took a beating from all the rocks, but the clear bra did a really nice job of protecting the paint. I can't same for the windshield which now resembles glitter. That experience is what convinced me to go with the clear bra. If not for the clear bra I think I'd be in a situation of needing to repaint the hood, fenders, and bumper.

So, the Telsa is going to get the full treatment. I'm starting with a paint correction via a one-step polish with my dual-action machine, tomorrow it'll receive the clear bra, and then Saturday I'll finish any paint correction needed followed by top coating with Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light and EXO. The topcoats will protect the paint for years to come and make the surface slick enough that dust will fly off when I drive.

Next week it'll become my daily driver.

abacomike

tyguy said:

Speaking of Entiltlement. Are Tesla Model 3 owners behaving worse than BMW or Mercedes owners? Here is a quick peek at the discussions going on in a Tesla forum: "So I've heard these stories about crazy service centers. I showed up to get warranty work expecting craziness. What I did not expect were Model 3 owners seemingly throwing tantrums at the extremely patient Tesla staff. They had about 6 or 7 temp workers directing traffic and moving cars. They were standing outside in the rain in 33F degree weather. Props to them. 1 after another new model 3 owners were coming in and just losing their cool just a little bit too quickly. One guy started screaming at a Tesla service girl because his autopilot wasn't activated after 24 hours. She looked him in the eye after he stopped yelling and said "Sir, I'm here to help you. I'm on your side. Let me look into this for you." Then went way out of her way to make sure it was activated ASAP. Gee whiz guys - let's all chill out! Nothing is that important. You will get your autopilot. You purchasing a car that's more expensive than you normally would does not give you the right to treat others like garbage-class." Here is an other "…"The entitlement I've seen from some Model 3 owners is hilarious... You couldn't afford a Tesla before they made a "cheap" one but yet you'd think they just bought a fully loaded Model S/X P100DL... I had an encounter at a supercharger recently with a Model 3 owner who wanted me to unplug from my A post so he could charge faster on his B post and proceeded to explain to me that I have no idea how superchargers work and that Model 3's should get first priority anyhow, blah, blah, blah... I tuned him out and stayed plugged in until I was ready to go... I really wanted to shout back "if it weren't for early adopters like myself and many, many others, you wouldn't even have a Model 3 to plug in"... More at https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/just-left-the-dedham-ma-sc-people-were-loosing-their-t.135740/

Wow. I'm glad I didn't run into any of those issues when I picked up my Model 3. The staff was super friendly and the customers were beyond excited to pickup their new rides. No negativity whatsoever. It seems like patience in general is at all-time lows across the board. I'm not sure how to change it other than not contribute to the problem, but I'd sure like to see a return to more civility. You guys might recall that I'm a bit of a fanatic about detailing my cars. I noticed the Tesla factory or delivery center had compounded the paint, but I knew it could look better, so I've started polishing the paint to bring out that beautiful black gloss. I did decide to have clear bra installed on the high-impact front facing areas after our rough drive home from Utah earlier this week. The Subaru took a beating from all the rocks, but the clear bra did a really nice job of protecting the paint. I can't same for the windshield which now resembles glitter. That experience is what convinced me to go with the clear bra. If not for the clear bra I think I'd be in a situation of needing to repaint the hood, fenders, and bumper. So, the Telsa is going to get the full treatment. I'm starting with a paint correction via a one-step polish with my dual-action machine, tomorrow it'll receive the clear bra, and then Saturday I'll finish any paint correction needed followed by top coating with Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light and EXO. The topcoats will protect the paint for years to come and make the surface slick enough that dust will fly off when I drive. Next week it'll become my daily driver.

Enjoy, tyguy.  You’ve earned a tip of my hat for your decision to get a Tesla.  Congratulations!

oldfarmer50

driver100 said:

Apparently this Mazda 3 is on display. Is this the car for people who don't want to be seen and who don't want to see out?

I just saw one of those today and thought the same thing.

oldfarmer50

graphicguy said:

I honestly didn’t know Judge Judy was still on the air. I agree about the comment that she’s an arbitrator and not doing the job of a judge.

@oldfarmer50 ....I REALLY want to test drive the G70. If it’s better than the Stinger, as the MT article seems to believe, it must be one hell of a car, because the Stinger is one hell of a car.

It’s all I can muster to keep my checkbook at home and me away from the Kia dealership as it is.

You should try to find that show on Velocity that compared 10 fast cars. I think it might have been a Motor Trend show. I came in about half way through so I don’t have a show title.

They thought the Stinger was right up there in performance with the +$100k super cars.

oldfarmer50

carnaught said:

graphicguy said:

I honestly didn’t know Judge Judy was still on the air. I agree about the comment that she’s an arbitrator and not doing the job of a judge.

@oldfarmer50 ....I REALLY want to test drive the G70. If it’s better than the Stinger, as the MT article seems to believe, it must be one hell of a car, because the Stinger is one hell of a car.

It’s all I can muster to keep my checkbook at home and me away from the Kia dealership as it is.

Hope to check out, and get seat time in the G70 and ILX soon, both for my son.

If you’re buying cars like that for your kid would you please consider adopting me?

ab348

oldfarmer50 said:

driver100 said:

Apparently this Mazda 3 is on display. Is this the car for people who don't want to be seen and who don't want to see out?

I just saw one of those today and thought the same thing.

Seeing that, if it bombs in the marketplace I wonder what the future of Mazda in North America may be. Seems a risky move.

oldfarmer50

henryn said:

And the only answer to reality TV is to ignore it. If enough people would do that, it would go away.

Unfortunately, I don't think that's going to happen, so I just do my best to ignore it. All of it. Netflix helps, a lot.

Reality shows are so much cheaper than scripted dramas that it’s almost irresistible to the Hollywood set. Getting people to over emote for union scale or less is like a license to print money.

As much as I hate these shows I don’t see them going away soon.

oldfarmer50

Michaell said:

Wanted to give an update to my license plate saga.

Last night, my doorbell rang. It was a member of the local PD, holding the missing plate.

Turns out it wasn't stolen, it had been knocked off at the car wash I went to before dinner. Apparently, not only was it knocked off, but it was swiped to the side of the bay, which is why I didn't see it when I went back that night.

Still, cost me $8 to get new plates issued. I coulda gone to Chick-Fil-A with that money instead!

Wow! Your local cops spent the time to not only track down your plate but to deliver it to you? In most cities these days it’s hard to get the police to show up for accidents unless your intestines are decorating the guardrails.

oldfarmer50

jmonroe1 said:

dino001 said:

You guys really watch that s... stuff? Wow. I wouldn't know who she is if not for the promotional TV ads.

I can't watch so called "reality shows" of any type. They are as far from real world reality as you can get. Way too insulting for even my intelligence. Mrs. j watches more than her share of HGTV (I even watch some of it at times for a laugh) and she tells me some of what she sees when people are redoing houses. I keep telling her it's TV so it's made for entertainment, so, as long as you look at it like that your safe.

As I have said before, I am helping Son #1 with his first try at flipping a house. You want reality, come over and look at the behind the scenes stuff that you won't see on HGTV. Jonathan never shows you that kind of stuff but it's always there. As I'm getting more and more involved with this flip house, I have more reality than I have time for now but I'm not surprised because I have done some stuff around the homes I have lived in over the years (now in my 4th house) that has ALMOST prepared me for this reality.

jmonroe

The only home flip show I watch is the one with the husband/wife team (Chip & Joanna?). I noticed that despite the husband’s childish antics the wife obviously loves him. (She must to have 5 or 6 kids with him).

I tell my wife that it reminds me of us.

jmonroe1

imidazol97 said:

abacomike said:

I was just given a bottle of "White Walker by Johnny Walker" Scotch as a gift.  It's a brand new entry into the blended scotch market and is hard to find for the moment.  It runs about $35.00 a bottle at a good discount liquor store.  I am debating whether I should open it and try it or just give it as a gift to the Service Manager at the Mercedes Dealer who did my 1st year service "gratis".  I am a single malt scotch drinker when I do drink so I don't know whether or not it would be a waste to open the bottle and find out that I don't like it.

Has anyone tried this new entry into the scotch market or heard of it?  Would be interesting to hear some feedback as to what I should do.  Thanks.

Thinking in terms of protecting your liver, I'd suggest giving it to the great people at the MB store who have gone the mile to make your experience a WOW experience.
*********************
*********************
*********************
Yesterday morning I left home without my wallet to get morning coffee. I was told by the manager to just pay for two the next day I was in--I'm there daily for the great coffee.

Today I show up and the assistant manager came over telling me another customer had paid for my $.99 coffee. I'm not aware of who else was there and heard. But it's a really great feeling that someone did that.

I had told the manager that I'd forgotten my wallet before, and came back up when I went to the post office and paid. I told him I'd put four quarters in my armrest so I'd have change when I forgot the wallet again. But I'd used them, and forgot to replace them.

</blockage

Are you sure you didn't lose them in an Aldi's shopping cart?

jmonroe

oldfarmer50

abacomike said:

I was just given a bottle of "White Walker by Johnny Walker" Scotch as a gift.  It's a brand new entry into the blended scotch market and is hard to find for the moment.  It runs about $35.00 a bottle at a good discount liquor store.  I am debating whether I should open it and try it or just give it as a gift to the Service Manager at the Mercedes Dealer who did my 1st year service "gratis".  I am a single malt scotch drinker when I do drink so I don't know whether or not it would be a waste to open the bottle and find out that I don't like it.

Has anyone tried this new entry into the scotch market or heard of it?  Would be interesting to hear some feedback as to what I should do.  Thanks.

If I really like someone I’ll give them a $8.99 bottle of Bully Hill wine. That’s as rich as I go.

jmonroe1

Michaell said:

driver100 said:

xwesx said:

Michaell said:

Wanted to give an update to my license plate saga.

Last night, my doorbell rang. It was a member of the local PD, holding the missing plate.

Turns out it wasn't stolen, it had been knocked off at the car wash I went to before dinner. Apparently, not only was it knocked off, but it was swiped to the side of the bay, which is why I didn't see it when I went back that night.

Still, cost me $8 to get new plates issued. I coulda gone to Chick-Fil-A with that money instead!

That's either some seriously flimsy metal or one helluva car wash! I'm pretty sure you said that the screws were still in the car, yes?

Was that a car wash or a wind tunnel?

Don't know, but I'm pretty certain I won't be using it again.

And yes, the screws were still intact.

If the plates don't show signs of being torn off at the mounting holes, there is something fishy about this. If somehow that is the case, your car should have some real damage.

jmonroe

stickguy

I love going to bully hill. cool winery.

cdnpinhead

There was a writer's strike back in about 2000 for the conventional TV shows, in case anyone has forgotten. The result was Survivor, Big Brother and, later, Dirty Jobs, the various Bourdain shows, and many others. There's a show having to do with the Alaska Railway (what could be less interesting?) and any number of other shows that I much prefer to "conventional" TV. In fact, I spend lots more time on U-Tube than I do with TV these days.

jmonroe1

abacomike said:

So far, it looks like Mike, my service manager, is getting the limited edition white bottle of scotch as a Christmas gift.

Not so fast. I'm almost ready to take my finals so that I can become a Benz service advisor. Should have the sheepskin by Christmas.

jmonroe

oldfarmer50

driver100 said:

Mr_Shiftright said:

driver100 said:

jmonroe1 said:

Mr_Shiftright said:

Yeah, it's a lot like arbitration rather than "real" court. I think the limit on the show is $5000 in dispute. I suspect it's all rather scripted but I do find it interesting nonetheless. "

She also gets on my nerves, however.

Want to hear something funny (or tragic, perhaps). In a recent nationwide survey, fully 10% think Judge Judy is on the Supreme Court.

And the more troubling thing is that these people are in the voting booth next to us.

jmonroe

I think Judge Judy gave me the wisdom to see through a certain individual relative who was a conman. The show provides great training for ascertaining who is telling the truth and who isn't. Of course you do need a certain amount of intelligence to absorb that underlying layer the show provides. If you just watch it and think it is about two people arguing about which dog bit which dog you won't gain knowledge.....if you watch and listen for clues you may figure out whose story is more credible. And that is her real talent, getting to the truth.

I would have thought that such things can't really be taught. The gullible often remain so for a lifetime. I could spot a con man since I was about 8 years old.

I respectfully disagree. I have read and studied a lot of material regarding conmen. Our society is based on trust. Civilized people trust other people, especially relatives and people who seem to be friendly. There is no shame or guilt if you are taken in by a conman, they use your trust against you. Trust keeps us civilized. You do have to watch for signs, and I did spot them early on. My first hint came when we played a game (not tennis but a similar game they should have won easily) against him and his wife, and they let us win. It was just a bit much and I had to question his motives. Then a few more lies and excuses and my thoughts were confirmed. But, I think watching the judge programs made me more aware.....a lot of people can lie and it means nothing to them, they say whatever they have to say and try not to get caught. If you ask the right questions and keep at it, their story eventually won't add up. And, if you are dealing with a conman who is a narcissist or a psychopath, no amount of reasoning or appealing to their sense of decency will help......they have no remorse, no sympathy, no feelings of guilt.

My son who does the Uber/Lyft gig gets con man come ons all the time. He’s such a giving person that he takes them at face value. He once gave a man who claimed to be desperate a ride to another city and when the guy started the “I’ll pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today” baloney my son said it’s on me and left the guy speechless. Another time an agitated incoherent man came up to his car and my son drove him to the police station to get help for him. It’s hard to con the truly caring person.

oldfarmer50

stickguy said:

I love going to bully hill. cool winery.

I think I mentioned that back in 1980 my wife and I stumbled in there after the tasting room was closed and ran into Walter Taylor who invited us in for a sip. Quite an eccentric guy who made some tasty wine.

ab348

oldfarmer50 said:

The only home flip show I watch is the one with the husband/wife team (Chip & Joanna?). I noticed that despite the husband’s childish antics the wife obviously loves him. (She must to have 5 or 6 kids with him).

“Childish antics” is right. That’s why I can’t stand that show, that and the fascination with shiplap she has.

The type of foolish stuff he does is an epidemic in many of those kind of shows. Try the flip show done in Atlanta for something with a minimal amount of that sort of stuff.

driver100

oldfarmer50 said:

driver100 said:

Apparently this Mazda 3 is on display. Is this the car for people who don't want to be seen and who don't want to see out?

I just saw one of those today and thought the same thing.

I'd get claustrophobia if I sat in that car. The 4 door may be worse;

driver100

ab348 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

driver100 said:

Apparently this Mazda 3 is on display. Is this the car for people who don't want to be seen and who don't want to see out?

I just saw one of those today and thought the same thing.

Seeing that, if it bombs in the marketplace I wonder what the future of Mazda in North America may be. Seems a risky move.

Young people will probably like it. They don't care about things like vision, as long as it looks "cool".

driver100

oldfarmer50 said:

Michaell said:

Wanted to give an update to my license plate saga.

Last night, my doorbell rang. It was a member of the local PD, holding the missing plate.

Turns out it wasn't stolen, it had been knocked off at the car wash I went to before dinner. Apparently, not only was it knocked off, but it was swiped to the side of the bay, which is why I didn't see it when I went back that night.

Still, cost me $8 to get new plates issued. I coulda gone to Chick-Fil-A with that money instead!

Wow! Your local cops spent the time to not only track down your plate but to deliver it to you? In most cities these days it’s hard to get the police to show up for accidents unless your intestines are decorating the guardrails.

But, does it do a good job of washing the car?

driver100

oldfarmer50 said:

driver100 said:

Mr_Shiftright said:

driver100 said:

jmonroe1 said:

Mr_Shiftright said:

Yeah, it's a lot like arbitration rather than "real" court. I think the limit on the show is $5000 in dispute. I suspect it's all rather scripted but I do find it interesting nonetheless. "

She also gets on my nerves, however.

Want to hear something funny (or tragic, perhaps). In a recent nationwide survey, fully 10% think Judge Judy is on the Supreme Court.

And the more troubling thing is that these people are in the voting booth next to us.

jmonroe

I think Judge Judy gave me the wisdom to see through a certain individual relative who was a conman. The show provides great training for ascertaining who is telling the truth and who isn't. Of course you do need a certain amount of intelligence to absorb that underlying layer the show provides. If you just watch it and think it is about two people arguing about which dog bit which dog you won't gain knowledge.....if you watch and listen for clues you may figure out whose story is more credible. And that is her real talent, getting to the truth.

I would have thought that such things can't really be taught. The gullible often remain so for a lifetime. I could spot a con man since I was about 8 years old.

I respectfully disagree. I have read and studied a lot of material regarding conmen. Our society is based on trust. Civilized people trust other people, especially relatives and people who seem to be friendly. There is no shame or guilt if you are taken in by a conman, they use your trust against you. Trust keeps us civilized. You do have to watch for signs, and I did spot them early on. My first hint came when we played a game (not tennis but a similar game they should have won easily) against him and his wife, and they let us win. It was just a bit much and I had to question his motives. Then a few more lies and excuses and my thoughts were confirmed. But, I think watching the judge programs made me more aware.....a lot of people can lie and it means nothing to them, they say whatever they have to say and try not to get caught. If you ask the right questions and keep at it, their story eventually won't add up. And, if you are dealing with a conman who is a narcissist or a psychopath, no amount of reasoning or appealing to their sense of decency will help......they have no remorse, no sympathy, no feelings of guilt.

My son who does the Uber/Lyft gig gets con man come ons all the time. He’s such a giving person that he takes them at face value. He once gave a man who claimed to be desperate a ride to another city and when the guy started the “I’ll pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today” baloney my son said it’s on me and left the guy speechless. Another time an agitated incoherent man came up to his car and my son drove him to the police station to get help for him. It’s hard to con the truly caring person.

I think the lesson your son has to learn is that if he wants to help people, and if he doesn't make a profit because people don't pay him, he eventually will be of no help to anyone. It is nice that he wants to help, but, there is a balance.....first make sure he is going to be OK.

fintail

I cut my cable back, and stream youtube a lot, too. I'd rather watch Russian dashcam videos all day than 99% of the stuff on normal TV.

cdnpinhead said:

There was a writer's strike back in about 2000 for the conventional TV shows, in case anyone has forgotten. The result was Survivor, Big Brother and, later, Dirty Jobs, the various Bourdain shows, and many others. There's a show having to do with the Alaska Railway (what could be less interesting?) and any number of other shows that I much prefer to "conventional" TV. In fact, I spend lots more time on U-Tube than I do with TV these days.

imidazol97

jmonroe1 said:

Are you sure you didn't lose them in an Aldi's shopping cart?

jmonroe

My wife won't let me shop at Aldi. Also I like having the store provide bags.

imidazol97

driver100 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

driver100 said:

Apparently this Mazda 3 is on display. Is this the car for people who don't want to be seen and who don't want to see out?

I just saw one of those today and thought the same thing.

I'd get claustrophobia if I sat in that car. The 4 door may be worse;

How's the backseat legroom in those puppies? Looks cramped. Have to boycott them.

boomchek

Speaking of reality shows, when there was a housewives show filmed locally and I worked at a local exotic car dealership, they did an episode of one of the housewives coming in and "buying" an exotic car.

Well, she already owned the car for several months, and all they did was pulled her car into the showroom, and started filming afterwards, first of her her walking in, then talking to one of the sales guys as if it was her first time looking to buy the car, seeing it, pretending to look amazed, and then saying she liked it and would like to buy it.

Another time a production company doing a different reality show bought an older used Bentley with intent of replacing the bumpers with lookalike parts that were easy to break as they were going to stage an "accident" of one of the reality stars crashing the car.

So yes, a lot of it is staged.