Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

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  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    I was just walking down my catwalk to dispose of some trash in the slot by the elevator and happened to run in to a security guy who was checking the apartments on my floor which are owned by snowbirds and are vacant for the summer months. He gave me a warning after taking down my name and apartment number that if I am "caught" out of my apartment again without a face mask, I would be fined $50.00! I guess my HOA is cracking down on unit owners who don't wear masks. I usually keep all my masks in my car's console, but I now have a package of them in my foyer on the table next to my umbrella.

    From the emails I have been receiving from the liason manager of the Community Council (HOA) which passes bylaws concerning our complex of over 5,000 people, it would appear that our community is doing well as regards the number of covid-19 positives identified. There have been only 11 cases since March, which is quite good.

    It would seem that their rule about wearing masks inside our complex is working and being enforced. Nice to know!

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,557
    suydam said:

    Totally out of left field, I have a gripe....a minor one, but something that’s bothered me for a long while.

    I don’t donate to any political campaign. Matter of fact, the only monetary charitable donations I make are to a few research arms of non-profits. I don’t even donate to my church (much to their chagrin). If they can’t find enough money to operate with all the priceless artifacts sitting in the Vatican, then that’s on them.

    As I’m sure most of you here in the U.S. have noted, political campaigns are furiously bombarding us, asking for donations. Most say that if I donate a certain amount, it will be matched by someone else or some sort of other entity. Matched? Why do you need our money in order to get someone else’s money? Why doesn’t the entity just donate the money to begin with? Seems really silly, to me.

    I notice my local public radio station does the same thing.

    All of them predict some sort of catastrophe if I don’t donate. Let the chaos begin, then.

    The new tact of those super irritating “extended warranty” robocalls is to ask you to confirm you want to be put on their “do not call” list. All that does is tell them you’re a live number that they can increase their calls.

    There...I feel better.

    Can you tell I have more time on my hands these days?

    As someone who has worked on fundraising drives for nonprofits, I can tell you that matching is a powerful incentive for a lot of donors. If you think, if I give $50, they will match, then it’s like doubling your donation. It’s also a good way to honor larger donors during the drive.
    That does seem to attract donations.....you think my measly $50 is like giving $100. And the guy donating the large amount says I want to donate $Xs, but I can double the amount by offering it this way.

    A few things bother me....and charities have their back against the wall these days;
    1) A lot of them started sending gifts of pens and stationery to make you feel guilty if you don't give,
    2) When you give to one you go on the sucker list and start getting other ones.
    If they phone I say I don't give by way of a telephone call....we write out checks once a year.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,241
    Mystery M-B is a C111, from a family of concepts in that brave new world around 1970 when different forms of ICE propulsion were in vogue.

    On my second to last visit to the M-B Museum in Stuttgart, there was a special C111 exhibition - these things have a cult behind them:



    Regarding being logged out, it happens to me rarely, probably no more than once a month, using Chrome. No big deal, just log in again and it works fine.
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,664
    fintail said:



    On my second to last visit to the M-B Museum in Stuttgart, there was a special C111 exhibition - these things have a cult behind them

    Must be a very very small cult considering that is 1/3rd the total production sitting there in the museum. ;b

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,241
    Ha, one of those non-owner cults. I've met people who collect every model of a C111 they can find. It really got some people going.

    I should cherish those museum visits, too - who knows when we'll be allowed back!
    qbrozen said:



    Must be a very very small cult considering that is 1/3rd the total production sitting there in the museum. ;b

  • suydamsuydam Member Posts: 5,028
    @abacomike — glad to hear you are in a mask-wearing complex, as Florida now appears to be at the center of the US pandemic, and you have so many health issues. I met my first hostile non-masker yesterday, quite an experience. I really don’t get it.
    '24 Kia Sportage PHEV
    '24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 52,960
    Chrome on the laptop works fine. Now use edge on the iPad because I need it for a sports site I frequent, do just easier to use the same one. But always was fine on Safari I think.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,482
    @imidazol97,
    According to my AAA atlas Dayton is in Southern Ohio. :o
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • jwm40517jwm40517 Member Posts: 302
    Regarding charities, my pet peeve is phone calls by professional fundraisers in the name of a charity. Here in KY and probably other states you can print a list of all approved fundraisers and the % of money raised that actually goes to the charity on the Attorney General website.

    Some take a reasonable commission and raise a lot of money for the charity. But the thing that really amazed me was a few pro solicitors that had deals with dozens of charities in which the pros got 99% and the charity got 1%.
    When you ask them how much they keep they usually lie and say its all for the charity , even when you have the AG info in front of you that says they take 99%.

    If i'm not busy I sometimes just like to keep them on the line and mess with them.
  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 261,766

    @imidazol97,
    According to my AAA atlas Dayton is in Southern Ohio. :o

    Actually, no one calls this area (or Dayton) Southern Ohio.

    Southwest Ohio.

    Southern Ohio is Chillicothe and Portsmouth.

    You get five miles North of Dayton, and it's West Central Ohio. :p

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  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,074
    edited July 2020
    suydam said:


    Re browsers — is anyone even updating Firefox any more? I’d imagine it has a lot of glitches. Chrome is pretty standard, is updated often, and works well for most people, as does Safari.

    Firefox does *weekly* updates. I presume most of them are security-related but I notice they have added a bunch of functions I will never use. Perhaps that is what makes it flaky on this site.

    I don't like Chrome (aside from being a Google product) because unless I've missed something, it has the typical Google minimalist interface. Whenever I use it I feel like I'm in the dark. At least Firefox gives you every possible choice in menus, if that's what you want. I find Safari (which I've only ever used on my Apple devices) even more inscrutable. Maybe I'll try this Brave thing.

    ETA: I think I'll steer clear of Brave after reading the wiki entry on it:

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brave_(web_browser)

    I have no idea what half of that even means but I see lots of stuff there that gives me a very light-headed feeling.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,482
    @kyfdx,
    I'm only going by what is shown as 'Southern Ohio' by AAA on their map. :p
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • suydamsuydam Member Posts: 5,028

    @kyfdx,
    I'm only going by what is shown as 'Southern Ohio' by AAA on their map. :p

    As someone who spent many years in central Ohio, I can assure you that no one refers to Dayton as Southern Ohio. Anything in the vicinity of I70 is central Ohio. Southern Ohio is Cincinnati, Portsmouth, Irontown, etc. Love AAA but the map is labeled incorrectly.
    '24 Kia Sportage PHEV
    '24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,482
    @suydam,
    I'm sure it was just a convenience for AAA since they couldn't fit the whole state on a single page.
    Considering how many people have a AAA atlas, most people probably do view Dayton as Southern Ohio, just not the people who live around there. :)
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 52,960
    You want to start a brawl, come to NJ and ask where central jersey is.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,482
    edited July 2020
    @stickguy,
    I'l have to check my atlas. :D
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,557
    When we traveled to Florida on I-75 and we got to Dayton....we considered that pretty far South, but technically West too.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 259,650
    stickguy said:

    You want to start a brawl, come to NJ and ask where central jersey is.

    I always figured Princeton.

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  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,007

    Totally out of left field, I have a gripe....a minor one, but something that’s bothered me for a long while.

    I don’t donate to any political campaign. Matter of fact, the only monetary charitable donations I make are to a few research arms of non-profits. I don’t even donate to my church (much to their chagrin). If they can’t find enough money to operate with all the priceless artifacts sitting in the Vatican, then that’s on them.

    As I’m sure most of you here in the U.S. have noted, political campaigns are furiously bombarding us, asking for donations. Most say that if I donate a certain amount, it will be matched by someone else or some sort of other entity. Matched? Why do you need our money in order to get someone else’s money? Why doesn’t the entity just donate the money to begin with? Seems really silly, to me.

    I notice my local public radio station does the same thing.

    All of them predict some sort of catastrophe if I don’t donate. Let the chaos begin, then.

    The new tact of those super irritating “extended warranty” robocalls is to ask you to confirm you want to be put on their “do not call” list. All that does is tell them you’re a live number that they can increase their calls.

    There...I feel better.

    Can you tell I have more time on my hands these days?

    Well, I can tell you that if you make a donation to ME it will be matched by the next sucker I can scam. Guaranteed. 🤑

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,156
    edited July 2020
    jmonroe1 said:

    Spent the evening detailing the Stinger last night. Being 6+ months old, and garage kept, there really weren't any trouble spots...not even any rock chips. But, got the hose (no foam cannon, unfortunately) and gave it a good bath. And, tried a different wax this time around other than my old tried and true Zaino. Used F11 Top Coat. Easy to use. Makes the car look really good. Let's see how long it lasts....




    I hate to be the one to tell you this but you missed a spot. Other than that one spot it looks very nice. Take good care of it, @roadburner may be interested in it if he can’t get a good deal on the one he’s been threatening us that he wants to buy.

    jmonroe

    Nope; it's AWD with no driver selectable torque split or rear LSD. That's the only way I'll buy an AWD car- and still, I'd rather have a RWD car.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,070
    edited July 2020
    jmonroe1 said:

    Spent the evening detailing the Stinger last night. Being 6+ months old, and garage kept, there really weren't any trouble spots...not even any rock chips. But, got the hose (no foam cannon, unfortunately) and gave it a good bath. And, tried a different wax this time around other than my old tried and true Zaino. Used F11 Top Coat. Easy to use. Makes the car look really good. Let's see how long it lasts....




    I hate to be the one to tell you this but you missed a spot. Other than that one spot it looks very nice. Take good care of it, @roadburner may be interested in it if he can’t get a good deal on the one he’s been threatening us that he wants to buy.

    jmonroe

    Just a slight correction for you and @driver100 ...didn't miss a spot. I went to look. It's a reflection off the garage ceiling. That's how shiny it is! ;)

    @Michaell ..I am on my city's Parks and Recreation advisory council. It's just that we've suspended all meetings and activities until my County gets out of the COVD-19 "red-zone". We usually host concerts, lecture series, "dog-ins", nature walks, etc. That's come to a screeching halt.

    I was planning on teaching a tech class at the local 2-year college, too. That's on hold, also.

    So, you guys get me full time as a result.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 259,650

    jmonroe1 said:

    Spent the evening detailing the Stinger last night. Being 6+ months old, and garage kept, there really weren't any trouble spots...not even any rock chips. But, got the hose (no foam cannon, unfortunately) and gave it a good bath. And, tried a different wax this time around other than my old tried and true Zaino. Used F11 Top Coat. Easy to use. Makes the car look really good. Let's see how long it lasts....




    I hate to be the one to tell you this but you missed a spot. Other than that one spot it looks very nice. Take good care of it, @roadburner may be interested in it if he can’t get a good deal on the one he’s been threatening us that he wants to buy.

    jmonroe

    Just a slight correction for you and @driver100 ...didn't miss a spot. I went to look. It's a reflection off the garage ceiling. That's how shiny it is! ;)

    @Michaell ..I am on my city's Parks and Recreation advisory council. It's just that we've suspended all meetings and activities until my County gets out of the COVD-19 "red-zone". We usually host concerts, lecture series, "dog-ins", nature walks, etc. That's come to a screeching halt.

    I was planning on teaching a tech class at the local 2-year college, too. That's on hold, also.

    So, you guys get me full time as a result.
    Regarding the teaching gig - they aren't doing distance learning? My wife teaches an early childhood class each semester, totally online.

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  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,007
    driver100 said:

    suydam said:

    Totally out of left field, I have a gripe....a minor one, but something that’s bothered me for a long while.

    I don’t donate to any political campaign. Matter of fact, the only monetary charitable donations I make are to a few research arms of non-profits. I don’t even donate to my church (much to their chagrin). If they can’t find enough money to operate with all the priceless artifacts sitting in the Vatican, then that’s on them.

    As I’m sure most of you here in the U.S. have noted, political campaigns are furiously bombarding us, asking for donations. Most say that if I donate a certain amount, it will be matched by someone else or some sort of other entity. Matched? Why do you need our money in order to get someone else’s money? Why doesn’t the entity just donate the money to begin with? Seems really silly, to me.

    I notice my local public radio station does the same thing.

    All of them predict some sort of catastrophe if I don’t donate. Let the chaos begin, then.

    The new tact of those super irritating “extended warranty” robocalls is to ask you to confirm you want to be put on their “do not call” list. All that does is tell them you’re a live number that they can increase their calls.

    There...I feel better.

    Can you tell I have more time on my hands these days?

    As someone who has worked on fundraising drives for nonprofits, I can tell you that matching is a powerful incentive for a lot of donors. If you think, if I give $50, they will match, then it’s like doubling your donation. It’s also a good way to honor larger donors during the drive.
    That does seem to attract donations.....you think my measly $50 is like giving $100. And the guy donating the large amount says I want to donate $Xs, but I can double the amount by offering it this way.

    A few things bother me....and charities have their back against the wall these days;
    1) A lot of them started sending gifts of pens and stationery to make you feel guilty if you don't give,
    2) When you give to one you go on the sucker list and start getting other ones.
    If they phone I say I don't give by way of a telephone call....we write out checks once a year.

    When charities (who may or may not be legit) call me on the phone I tell them I will be happy to donate if they send me their financial statement including the percent of donations which go to administrative overhead. I’ve never had one comply or even call back.

    What does that tell you?

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 259,650

    driver100 said:

    suydam said:

    Totally out of left field, I have a gripe....a minor one, but something that’s bothered me for a long while.

    I don’t donate to any political campaign. Matter of fact, the only monetary charitable donations I make are to a few research arms of non-profits. I don’t even donate to my church (much to their chagrin). If they can’t find enough money to operate with all the priceless artifacts sitting in the Vatican, then that’s on them.

    As I’m sure most of you here in the U.S. have noted, political campaigns are furiously bombarding us, asking for donations. Most say that if I donate a certain amount, it will be matched by someone else or some sort of other entity. Matched? Why do you need our money in order to get someone else’s money? Why doesn’t the entity just donate the money to begin with? Seems really silly, to me.

    I notice my local public radio station does the same thing.

    All of them predict some sort of catastrophe if I don’t donate. Let the chaos begin, then.

    The new tact of those super irritating “extended warranty” robocalls is to ask you to confirm you want to be put on their “do not call” list. All that does is tell them you’re a live number that they can increase their calls.

    There...I feel better.

    Can you tell I have more time on my hands these days?

    As someone who has worked on fundraising drives for nonprofits, I can tell you that matching is a powerful incentive for a lot of donors. If you think, if I give $50, they will match, then it’s like doubling your donation. It’s also a good way to honor larger donors during the drive.
    That does seem to attract donations.....you think my measly $50 is like giving $100. And the guy donating the large amount says I want to donate $Xs, but I can double the amount by offering it this way.

    A few things bother me....and charities have their back against the wall these days;
    1) A lot of them started sending gifts of pens and stationery to make you feel guilty if you don't give,
    2) When you give to one you go on the sucker list and start getting other ones.
    If they phone I say I don't give by way of a telephone call....we write out checks once a year.

    When charities (who may or may not be legit) call me on the phone I tell them I will be happy to donate if they send me their financial statement including the percent of donations which go to administrative overhead. I’ve never had one comply or even call back.

    What does that tell you?
    Doesn't your state require that they file paperwork? I seem to remember my wife telling me about a website where you can look up the financials of any non-profit. I'll see if I can get it from her.

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    2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,070
    Michaell said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    Spent the evening detailing the Stinger last night. Being 6+ months old, and garage kept, there really weren't any trouble spots...not even any rock chips. But, got the hose (no foam cannon, unfortunately) and gave it a good bath. And, tried a different wax this time around other than my old tried and true Zaino. Used F11 Top Coat. Easy to use. Makes the car look really good. Let's see how long it lasts....




    I hate to be the one to tell you this but you missed a spot. Other than that one spot it looks very nice. Take good care of it, @roadburner may be interested in it if he can’t get a good deal on the one he’s been threatening us that he wants to buy.

    jmonroe

    Just a slight correction for you and @driver100 ...didn't miss a spot. I went to look. It's a reflection off the garage ceiling. That's how shiny it is! ;)

    @Michaell ..I am on my city's Parks and Recreation advisory council. It's just that we've suspended all meetings and activities until my County gets out of the COVD-19 "red-zone". We usually host concerts, lecture series, "dog-ins", nature walks, etc. That's come to a screeching halt.

    I was planning on teaching a tech class at the local 2-year college, too. That's on hold, also.

    So, you guys get me full time as a result.
    Regarding the teaching gig - they aren't doing distance learning? My wife teaches an early childhood class each semester, totally online.
    They plan on doing virtual learning. Those plans are still being fleshed out, though. Nothing's cut in stone. I suspect there won't be something concrete until next month. I know on my end, we've tested ZOOM for classroom work and it seemed to go off without a hitch. But, you add in a dozen or 15 students online, and it's unclear what the "gotchas" will be.

    We'll get there. We're just not there, yet!
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • suydamsuydam Member Posts: 5,028

    driver100 said:

    suydam said:

    Totally out of left field, I have a gripe....a minor one, but something that’s bothered me for a long while.

    I don’t donate to any political campaign. Matter of fact, the only monetary charitable donations I make are to a few research arms of non-profits. I don’t even donate to my church (much to their chagrin). If they can’t find enough money to operate with all the priceless artifacts sitting in the Vatican, then that’s on them.

    As I’m sure most of you here in the U.S. have noted, political campaigns are furiously bombarding us, asking for donations. Most say that if I donate a certain amount, it will be matched by someone else or some sort of other entity. Matched? Why do you need our money in order to get someone else’s money? Why doesn’t the entity just donate the money to begin with? Seems really silly, to me.

    I notice my local public radio station does the same thing.

    All of them predict some sort of catastrophe if I don’t donate. Let the chaos begin, then.

    The new tact of those super irritating “extended warranty” robocalls is to ask you to confirm you want to be put on their “do not call” list. All that does is tell them you’re a live number that they can increase their calls.

    There...I feel better.

    Can you tell I have more time on my hands these days?

    As someone who has worked on fundraising drives for nonprofits, I can tell you that matching is a powerful incentive for a lot of donors. If you think, if I give $50, they will match, then it’s like doubling your donation. It’s also a good way to honor larger donors during the drive.
    That does seem to attract donations.....you think my measly $50 is like giving $100. And the guy donating the large amount says I want to donate $Xs, but I can double the amount by offering it this way.

    A few things bother me....and charities have their back against the wall these days;
    1) A lot of them started sending gifts of pens and stationery to make you feel guilty if you don't give,
    2) When you give to one you go on the sucker list and start getting other ones.
    If they phone I say I don't give by way of a telephone call....we write out checks once a year.

    When charities (who may or may not be legit) call me on the phone I tell them I will be happy to donate if they send me their financial statement including the percent of donations which go to administrative overhead. I’ve never had one comply or even call back.

    What does that tell you?
    It tells me that Since all that info is easily available online, you obviously aren’t interested in actually donating.
    '24 Kia Sportage PHEV
    '24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,664
    stickguy said:

    You want to start a brawl, come to NJ and ask where central jersey is.

    funny.

    Here are some good ones: https://www.mapmania.org/map/67675/6_ways_to_divide_new_jersey

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,070

    jmonroe1 said:

    Spent the evening detailing the Stinger last night. Being 6+ months old, and garage kept, there really weren't any trouble spots...not even any rock chips. But, got the hose (no foam cannon, unfortunately) and gave it a good bath. And, tried a different wax this time around other than my old tried and true Zaino. Used F11 Top Coat. Easy to use. Makes the car look really good. Let's see how long it lasts....




    I hate to be the one to tell you this but you missed a spot. Other than that one spot it looks very nice. Take good care of it, @roadburner may be interested in it if he can’t get a good deal on the one he’s been threatening us that he wants to buy.

    jmonroe

    Nope; it's AWD with no driver selectable torque split or rear LSD. That's the only way I'll buy an AWD car- and still, I'd rather have a RWD car.

    RB...I doubt it's what you're looking for. I think you're looking for a mechanical LSD.

    My AWD has it, but it's electronic and uses the brakes to channel power to different drive wheels. The % of shift is not driver controllable, either. GTS has mechanical LSD available, as does the RWD version.

    My TLX had mechanical LSD.

    Is there a difference? The way I drive? Not so much. But, if you're regularly flogging the car in turns or auto-X, then yes, there would be a noticeable difference.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,007
    stickguy said:

    You want to start a brawl, come to NJ and ask where central jersey is.

    If you want to confuse someone from NYC just ask them where is upstate.



    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,007
    edited July 2020
    Michaell said:

    driver100 said:

    suydam said:

    Totally out of left field, I have a gripe....a minor one, but something that’s bothered me for a long while.

    I don’t donate to any political campaign. Matter of fact, the only monetary charitable donations I make are to a few research arms of non-profits. I don’t even donate to my church (much to their chagrin). If they can’t find enough money to operate with all the priceless artifacts sitting in the Vatican, then that’s on them.

    As I’m sure most of you here in the U.S. have noted, political campaigns are furiously bombarding us, asking for donations. Most say that if I donate a certain amount, it will be matched by someone else or some sort of other entity. Matched? Why do you need our money in order to get someone else’s money? Why doesn’t the entity just donate the money to begin with? Seems really silly, to me.

    I notice my local public radio station does the same thing.

    All of them predict some sort of catastrophe if I don’t donate. Let the chaos begin, then.

    The new tact of those super irritating “extended warranty” robocalls is to ask you to confirm you want to be put on their “do not call” list. All that does is tell them you’re a live number that they can increase their calls.

    There...I feel better.

    Can you tell I have more time on my hands these days?

    As someone who has worked on fundraising drives for nonprofits, I can tell you that matching is a powerful incentive for a lot of donors. If you think, if I give $50, they will match, then it’s like doubling your donation. It’s also a good way to honor larger donors during the drive.
    That does seem to attract donations.....you think my measly $50 is like giving $100. And the guy donating the large amount says I want to donate $Xs, but I can double the amount by offering it this way.

    A few things bother me....and charities have their back against the wall these days;
    1) A lot of them started sending gifts of pens and stationery to make you feel guilty if you don't give,
    2) When you give to one you go on the sucker list and start getting other ones.
    If they phone I say I don't give by way of a telephone call....we write out checks once a year.

    When charities (who may or may not be legit) call me on the phone I tell them I will be happy to donate if they send me their financial statement including the percent of donations which go to administrative overhead. I’ve never had one comply or even call back.

    What does that tell you?
    Doesn't your state require that they file paperwork? I seem to remember my wife telling me about a website where you can look up the financials of any non-profit. I'll see if I can get it from her.
    Yes, of course you can but any charity that isn’t prepared to provide that data to potential donors has something to hide.

    Some of the “police” associations that call are just boiler room operations that keep 90% of the donations.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • carnaughtcarnaught Member Posts: 3,570
    edited July 2020
    @graphicguy, if only we could take all the millions of $$ spent on political campaigns and utilize them to feed and clothe our hungry and homeless instead of using it to help corrupt politicians to get-in, or stay-in office - what a colossal waste of money!

    @abacomike, I also absolutely hate the pharmaceutical commercials on television...."tell your doctor if you have vomiting, dizziness, headache, confusion, yada, yada, yada..." I almost would rather see more Lemu, Emu. No wonder why our drugs are so expensive. Psoriasis, and related arthritis, are no-doubt big players.
  • imidazol97imidazol97 Member Posts: 27,609
    I always dreaded the catheter commercials that plague the older crowd programs. So much fun to watch and think about. Followed by the absorbant pad commercials.

    2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388

    jmonroe1 said:

    Spent the evening detailing the Stinger last night. Being 6+ months old, and garage kept, there really weren't any trouble spots...not even any rock chips. But, got the hose (no foam cannon, unfortunately) and gave it a good bath. And, tried a different wax this time around other than my old tried and true Zaino. Used F11 Top Coat. Easy to use. Makes the car look really good. Let's see how long it lasts....




    I hate to be the one to tell you this but you missed a spot. Other than that one spot it looks very nice. Take good care of it, @roadburner may be interested in it if he can’t get a good deal on the one he’s been threatening us that he wants to buy.

    jmonroe

    Nope; it's AWD with no driver selectable torque split or rear LSD. That's the only way I'll buy an AWD car- and still, I'd rather have a RWD car.
    I have not noticed any difference between my new E450 4MATIC and any RWD Mercedes I have owned. The only difference I have experienced is the outstanding cornering on this car - but since I am not usually accelerating when cornering, I can't attribute that to AWD.

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 259,650

    Michaell said:

    driver100 said:

    suydam said:

    Totally out of left field, I have a gripe....a minor one, but something that’s bothered me for a long while.

    I don’t donate to any political campaign. Matter of fact, the only monetary charitable donations I make are to a few research arms of non-profits. I don’t even donate to my church (much to their chagrin). If they can’t find enough money to operate with all the priceless artifacts sitting in the Vatican, then that’s on them.

    As I’m sure most of you here in the U.S. have noted, political campaigns are furiously bombarding us, asking for donations. Most say that if I donate a certain amount, it will be matched by someone else or some sort of other entity. Matched? Why do you need our money in order to get someone else’s money? Why doesn’t the entity just donate the money to begin with? Seems really silly, to me.

    I notice my local public radio station does the same thing.

    All of them predict some sort of catastrophe if I don’t donate. Let the chaos begin, then.

    The new tact of those super irritating “extended warranty” robocalls is to ask you to confirm you want to be put on their “do not call” list. All that does is tell them you’re a live number that they can increase their calls.

    There...I feel better.

    Can you tell I have more time on my hands these days?

    As someone who has worked on fundraising drives for nonprofits, I can tell you that matching is a powerful incentive for a lot of donors. If you think, if I give $50, they will match, then it’s like doubling your donation. It’s also a good way to honor larger donors during the drive.
    That does seem to attract donations.....you think my measly $50 is like giving $100. And the guy donating the large amount says I want to donate $Xs, but I can double the amount by offering it this way.

    A few things bother me....and charities have their back against the wall these days;
    1) A lot of them started sending gifts of pens and stationery to make you feel guilty if you don't give,
    2) When you give to one you go on the sucker list and start getting other ones.
    If they phone I say I don't give by way of a telephone call....we write out checks once a year.

    When charities (who may or may not be legit) call me on the phone I tell them I will be happy to donate if they send me their financial statement including the percent of donations which go to administrative overhead. I’ve never had one comply or even call back.

    What does that tell you?
    Doesn't your state require that they file paperwork? I seem to remember my wife telling me about a website where you can look up the financials of any non-profit. I'll see if I can get it from her.
    Yes, of course you can but any charity that isn’t prepared to provide that data to potential donors has something to hide.

    Some of the “police” associations that call are just boiler room operations that keep 90% of the donations.
    But of course.

    And, I thought anything north of White Plains or Yonkers was considered "upstate"

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  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,156
    edited July 2020


    RB...I doubt it's what you're looking for. I think you're looking for a mechanical LSD.

    You are absolutely right; I should have clarified my comment. A pure mechanical LSD is good enough for me, although some cars-like the true BMW ///M cars have a mechanical LSD where the clutch packs are controlled electronically. The 440i manual coupe I found was AWD, but I fully intended to install the M Performance locking diff as soon as I drove it home. Plus, it had the Track Handling Package and the M Performance power and Sound Kit- so I thought the AWD experience would be tolerable.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,156


    Yes, of course you can but any charity that isn’t prepared to provide that data to potential donors has something to hide.

    Some of the “police” associations that call are just boiler room operations that keep 90% of the donations.

    There are several organizations that review charities and rank them based on several factors. Some review all charities while others focus on a particular subset.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,156
    abacomike said:


    I have not noticed any difference between my new E450 4MATIC and any RWD Mercedes I have owned. The only difference I have experienced is the outstanding cornering on this car - but since I am not usually accelerating when cornering, I can't attribute that to AWD.

    I want to be able to adjust understeer or oversteer by using the throttle and steering wheel; that's almost impossible to do when the AWD system is deciding which end of the car gets more power. And on top of that most stability control systems are primarily designed to protect the grossly inept-and sadly all too typical-American vehicle operator("driver" is far too generous a term). At least most performance cars allow you to dial the nannies back or-better yet-disable them entirely.
    That's the primary reason that my Club Sport, despite being glacially slow. is such a joy to drive down a twisting two lane or road course- the steering and suspension let the driver know exactly what is going on at all four contact patches. If a driver fails to pay attention he/she will pay the consequences- no nanny will protect the fool from his own ineptitude. Even better was my 2002; it had steering so communicative that you actually could feel a difference between driving on asphalt or concrete road surfaces.
    Wearers need not apply.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,007


    RB...I doubt it's what you're looking for. I think you're looking for a mechanical LSD.

    You are absolutely right; I should have clarified my comment. A pure mechanical LSD is good enough for me, although some cars-like the true BMW ///M cars have a mechanical LSD where the clutch packs are controlled electronically. The 440i manual coupe I found was AWD, but I fully intended to install the M Performance locking diff as soon as I drove it home. Plus, it had the Track Handling Package and the M Performance power and Sound Kit- so I thought the AWD experience would be tolerable.

    Do AWD systems come with limited slip differentials? I had lots of fun in the snow with plain old RWD limited slip. It must be a hoot with AWD.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • sdasda Member Posts: 7,459

    abacomike said:


    I have not noticed any difference between my new E450 4MATIC and any RWD Mercedes I have owned. The only difference I have experienced is the outstanding cornering on this car - but since I am not usually accelerating when cornering, I can't attribute that to AWD.

    I want to be able to adjust understeer or oversteer by using the throttle and steering wheel; that's almost impossible to do when the AWD system is deciding which end of the car gets more power. And on top of that most stability control systems are primarily designed to protect the grossly inept-and sadly all too typical-American vehicle operator("driver" is far too generous a term). At least most performance cars allow you to dial the nannies back or-better yet-disable them entirely.
    That's the primary reason that my Club Sport, despite being glacially slow. is such a joy to drive down a twisting two lane or road course- the steering and suspension let the driver know exactly what is going on at all four contact patches. If a driver fails to pay attention he/she will pay the consequences- no nanny will protect the fool from his own ineptitude. Even better was my 2002; it had steering so communicative that you actually could feel a difference between driving on asphalt or concrete road surfaces.
    Wearers need not apply.
    What’s sad is not knowing good steering feedback, knowing what’s going on under the wheels where instead thinking something is wrong having only driven vehicles with numb or zero feedback.

    2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 52,960

    stickguy said:

    You want to start a brawl, come to NJ and ask where central jersey is.

    If you want to confuse someone from NYC just ask them where is upstate.



    the top map is very true. I grew up just north of NYC (other side of the river from Sandy). I could see the skyline from a tree in our yard (before other trees grew too tall). maybe 15 miles. Yet, the "city people" considered that "upstate". They were nuts. Though I still consider the capital district upstate. Mainly because once you get much north of Saratoga, it is pretty much wilderness until you hit Canada!

    In Jersey, the natives seem to be very touchy about the Central concept. Many swear there is only north and south (but don't always agree where the line is) and will fight the sect that believes there is a central (I happen to think there definitely is). Battle lines tend to be drawn along the Taylor ham vs. Pork rule divide.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,664
    edited July 2020


    RB...I doubt it's what you're looking for. I think you're looking for a mechanical LSD.

    You are absolutely right; I should have clarified my comment. A pure mechanical LSD is good enough for me, although some cars-like the true BMW ///M cars have a mechanical LSD where the clutch packs are controlled electronically. The 440i manual coupe I found was AWD, but I fully intended to install the M Performance locking diff as soon as I drove it home. Plus, it had the Track Handling Package and the M Performance power and Sound Kit- so I thought the AWD experience would be tolerable.

    Do AWD systems come with limited slip differentials? I had lots of fun in the snow with plain old RWD limited slip. It must be a hoot with AWD.
    Some do, sure. Some with none, some with LSD rear only, and some with LSD front and back. IIRC, the STi has (or at least HAD) 3 LSDs in it: one on each axle and one in the center. AND it has/had dials for you to control the power distribution. I wanted one just for that.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 52,960

    I always dreaded the catheter commercials that plague the older crowd programs. So much fun to watch and think about. Followed by the absorbant pad commercials.

    I was going to guess Mike must watch Price is right in the mornings. I sometimes use the elliptical during PiR, and that is the bulk of their commercials. Pills, stair lifts, reverse mortgages and cheap life insurance to pay for your funeral.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,664
    stickguy said:



    In Jersey, the natives seem to be very touchy about the Central concept. Many swear there is only north and south (but don't always agree where the line is) and will fight the sect that believes there is a central (I happen to think there definitely is). Battle lines tend to be drawn along the Taylor ham vs. Pork rule divide.

    I happen to think Taylor Ham and Porkroll are totally different.
    AND I live in central NJ.
    My parents taught me it was a hoagie, but I adopted the sub name as I grew up and realize nobody knew what the hell I was referring to.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,156


    RB...I doubt it's what you're looking for. I think you're looking for a mechanical LSD.

    You are absolutely right; I should have clarified my comment. A pure mechanical LSD is good enough for me, although some cars-like the true BMW ///M cars have a mechanical LSD where the clutch packs are controlled electronically. The 440i manual coupe I found was AWD, but I fully intended to install the M Performance locking diff as soon as I drove it home. Plus, it had the Track Handling Package and the M Performance power and Sound Kit- so I thought the AWD experience would be tolerable.

    Do AWD systems come with limited slip differentials? I had lots of fun in the snow with plain old RWD limited slip. It must be a hoot with AWD.
    Some do; the Stinger GTS and Indigo Editions have them, and the front/rear torque split can be adjusted from 40/60 to 20/80 to 0/100(AKA "Drift Mode"). The M5 and the E63 S are the only other AWD sedans that have that capability. The WRX STI also allows some adjustment of the F/R torque split as well.
    Some of the newer BMW M and M Performance xDrive vehicles also have a mechanical LSD.
    That's the extent of my knowledge on the subject, which as you can see isn't much.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,482
    Some cars have non defeatable or semi defeatable traction control systems.
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,156
    sda said:


    What’s sad is not knowing good steering feedback, knowing what’s going on under the wheels where instead thinking something is wrong having only driven vehicles with numb or zero feedback.

    Most people confuse higher steering effort with steering feedback- often referring to it as"the feel of the road" when in actuality the steering system is not conveying one bit of useful information to the driver

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,557

    jmonroe1 said:

    Spent the evening detailing the Stinger last night. Being 6+ months old, and garage kept, there really weren't any trouble spots...not even any rock chips. But, got the hose (no foam cannon, unfortunately) and gave it a good bath. And, tried a different wax this time around other than my old tried and true Zaino. Used F11 Top Coat. Easy to use. Makes the car look really good. Let's see how long it lasts....




    I hate to be the one to tell you this but you missed a spot. Other than that one spot it looks very nice. Take good care of it, @roadburner may be interested in it if he can’t get a good deal on the one he’s been threatening us that he wants to buy.

    jmonroe

    Just a slight correction for you and @driver100 ...didn't miss a spot. I went to look. It's a reflection off the garage ceiling. That's how shiny it is! ;)
    .
    The good news is you didn't miss a spot...now I can sleep tonight.
    The bad news is....I noticed the same thing as JMonroe. :o

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592

    Let’s test you car knowledge. Who knows what this is?


    My guess is that the guy who put the plaque there with the name of the model on it knows what it is.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    stickguy said:

    I always dreaded the catheter commercials that plague the older crowd programs. So much fun to watch and think about. Followed by the absorbant pad commercials.

    I was going to guess Mike must watch Price is right in the mornings. I sometimes use the elliptical during PiR, and that is the bulk of their commercials. Pills, stair lifts, reverse mortgages and cheap life insurance to pay for your funeral.
    We used to watch the Price is Right on our morning break in the lunch room at work. That is until they told us we couldn't gamble on the wheel spin.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

This discussion has been closed.