DooDiligence

Playing at the collegiate level, your son likely has a good grasp of theory. It's not necessary but is extremely helpful, especially when playing with others. I found that going from a theory class directly to a math class, or vice versa, to be mind bending. The thought processes are so different, even though theory is math based (knowing there's 12 half steps in an octave is fundamental). Calculating chord qualities and functions within a harmony are very different than solving quadratic equations and doing statistical analysis, but if you can do one then you can do the other. Just don't schedule the 2 classes on the same day unless you really want to stretch your head. That said, we had a large class starting out, with less than half that number at graduation. Many dropped out because they simply couldn't keep up. It's a subject that builds on multiple small concepts and a student can get left behind quickly (undoubtedly true for engineering as well). TBF, 2 semesters is more than enough to enable most players. I'd honestly have to say that most would be better off switching majors after an AA and entering a field where they can make a stable living, then playing music as an enjoyable side hustle.

Have you tried music theory?

We're getting a good refresher now from the Mandarin Mussolini.

Reminds me of Desert Storm when Saddam was steadily pumping the troops while they were getting their asses handed to them. Everything this guy touches dies. Speaking of which, anybody bought one of those shitty phones of his? .

Useless distractions by brainless drumpfers. They're just copying their master. Release the Epstein files and let's get this pedo out of the White House and into a nice prison cell where he belongs.

must. eat. brains

TBF, at least Amin actually served with distinction before ruining that legacy. Cadet Bonespurs would award himself a medal for making it through a particularly harrowing bowel movement.

Elect a clown, expect a circus.

Before the year's out, he'll be wearing a uniform with a chest full of medals that would embarrass a north korean general officer.

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/20/politics/witkoff-delivered-medal-from-putin-family-american-killed What an epic troll.

https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-strikes-global-business-major-ukraine-air-attack-accuses-kyiv-blocking-2025-08-21/ Pretty sure the donald will respond by sending troops into Vermont. .

Meanwhile in the USA The early warning signs of fascism: 1. Powerful and Continuing Nationalism: An intense focus on national unity and identity, often to the exclusion of other groups or cultures. 2. Disdain for Human Rights: A disregard for the rights and dignity of individuals, especially those considered outside the favored group. 3. Identification of Enemies as a Unifying Cause: Using a common enemy or scapegoat to create a sense of cohesion and rally support for the cause. 4. Supremacy of the Military: Glorifying military power and prioritizing military spending and influence. 5. Rampant Sexism: Promoting traditional gender roles and often portraying women in a subordinate position. 6. Controlled Mass Media: Efforts to control or suppress independent media outlets and promote a specific narrative. 7. Obsession with National Security: An exaggerated focus on national security concerns, potentially leading to increased surveillance and restrictions on liberties. 8. Religion and Government Intertwined: Blurring the lines between religious and governmental authority, or using religion to legitimize political actions. 9. Corporate Power Protected: Policies that favor large corporations and often suppress the rights of workers or labor unions. 10. Labor Power Suppressed: Weakening or eliminating the influence of labor movements and organizations. 11. Disdain for Intellectuals and The Arts: Undermining the value of critical thinking, artistic expression, and independent intellectual pursuits. 12. Obsession with Crime and Punishment: A strong focus on "law and order," potentially leading to harsh punishments and an emphasis on controlling perceived criminality. 13. Rampant Cronyism and Corruption: A system where loyalty to the leader or party is prioritized over competence and fair procedures. 14. Fraudulent Elections: Undermining or manipulating democratic electoral processes to maintain or seize power. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

I may be mistaken but Google came to mind when I first saw this discussion. They've consistently given free products in the form of analytics, gmail and more. Does this count as scaled economics shared? Here's an interesting take on AI and SES. https://pratyushbuddiga.substack.com/p/compounding-competitive-advantage-229

The public is largely unable to separate theatre from reality. Facts are boring. Truth gets no respect. Profits over people. Media Influence and "Perpetual Campaign Style": The "impact of media on politicians," amplified by live coverage (e.g., C-SPAN from 1979), can drive politicians to "embrace a perpetual campaign style of representation, transforming congressional speeches into orchestrated performances aimed at capturing media attention." This may lead to "a reduced focus on meaningful intellectual discourse and nuanced policy discussions." The people want drama. Keep it simple so they can understand it.

The wind's blowing, he's trying something new. The verdict's still out.

Thank god. I thought for a second you were gonna stop right there.

A little more NVO.

Funny how those stinker bids seem to be hitting if you let 'em marinate (BRK, NVO, whatever...) Entry points abound.

Added to BRK.B

This is only part of the reason Sears went out of business.

It's a combination of this and stupidity. We'll see how it turns out.