Michael's Musings

November 7, 2011

My friend, Bruce Kimmel, has created a delightfully funny new web series, entitled OUTSIDE THE BOX.  The first episode is now available on YouTube, so please take a look.

If the above link does not work, just copy this address into your browser and you'll be taken right there:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDzawV6B1vU&feature=uploademail

Now, here's a joke I was sent:

A blond is on board a small two-seater airplane when suddenly the pilot has a heart attack and dies.  Not knowing how to fly a plane she grabs the radio.

"Mayday, mayday!  My pilot just died!"

Ground control receive her call for help and answers back, "Don't worry, madam.  I'll talk you down, just do as I say.  First I need you to give me your height and position."

"I'm 5"2' and sitting in the right front seat."

Ground control: "Repeat after me: Our Father.... which art in Heaven.... "

 You have a creative day.

Michael

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November 4, 2011

I got the word from my publisher yesterday that, not only will DRACULA MEETS JACK THE RIPPER & Other Revisionist Histories be available on Kindle by Thanksgiving, but the paperback reprint (and possibly the Kindle) of my BASIL RATHBONE: His Life and His Films will also be available for Christmas giving.

So, save your money.  DRACULA, of course, is already available in paperback and both of these titles will make great gifts.

Next weekend, November 11-13, I will be doing the Austin Comic Con.  I did quite well at this event last year and, hopefully, lightning will strike twice.

This weekend, I plan to watch BEAUTIFUL BOY with Maria Bello and Michael Sheen.  I hear very good things about this one.  I will, on all likelihood,  be posting a review for the film on the Best Bets on DVD site sometime next week.

You have a creative weekend and I will be back on Monday.

Michael

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November 3, 2011

Last week I purchased a burger at Burger King for $1.58. The counter girl took my $2 and I was digging for my change when I pulled 8 cents from my pocket and gave it to her. She stood there, holding the nickel and 3 pennies, while looking at the screen on her register. I sensed her discomfort and tried to tell her to just give me two quarters, but she hailed the manager for help.

Why do I tell you this?

Because of the evolution in teaching math since the 1950s:

1. Teaching Math In 1950s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5 of the price. What is his profit ?

2. Teaching Math In 1960s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5 of the price, or $80. What is his profit?

3. Teaching Math In 1970s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80. Did he make a profit?

4. Teaching Math In 1980s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80 and his profit is $20. Your assignment: Underline the number 20.

5. Teaching Math In 1990s
A logger cuts down a beautiful forest because he is selfish and inconsiderate and cares nothing for the habitat of animals or the preservation of our woodlands. He does this so he can make a profit of $20. What do you think of this way of making a living? Topic for class participation after answering the question: How did the birds and squirrels feel as the logger cut down their homes? (There are no wrong answers, and if you feel like crying, it's okay.)

6. Teaching Math In 2000s
If you have special needs or just feel you need assistance because of race, color, religion, sex, age, childhood memories, criminal background, then don't answer and the correct answer will be provided for you. There are no wrong answers.

7. Teaching Math In 2011
Un hachero vende una carrtada de Madera para 100 pesos. El costo de la producciones es 80 pesos. Cuanto dinero ha hecho?


You have a creative day.

Michael

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