How Popeye’s Obsession With Spinach Was Created From Glaring Misprint

How Popeye’s Obsession With Spinach Was Created From Glaring Misprint

Mistake from scientist led to signature feature of iconic cartoon

Popeye reaches for a can of spinach in a still from an unidenitified Popeye film, c. 1945. (Image by Paramount Pictures/Courtesy of Getty Images) (Paramount Pictures, Getty Images)

One of the most iconic cartoons of all time is “Popeye the Sailor,” and believe it or not, there is a day that has been created to honor the fictional character.

That day is today, but before any fans of the cartoon delve into celebrating Popeye The Sailor Man Day, they might not know how spinach consumption became the source of Popeye’s strength and a signature staple of the cartoon.

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It actually came about due to a mistake from a scientist.

The illustrator of the cartoon, E.C. Seegar, chose spinach as the source of Popeye’s strength — and the way to get energy to defeat the bad guys — mainly because he read on a label that spinach had lots of iron in it.

The problem was that it didn’t have as much iron as Seegar thought.

In 1870, German chemist Erich Von Wolfe wrote up that spinach contained 35 milligrams of iron per 100-gram serving, but he misplaced a decimal point.

He meant to write it up as 3.5 milligrams, and that wasn’t corrected until 1937. But by then, Popeye had well been established as a series of cartoons (it started to be shown in theaters in 1933).

In fact, Popeye was credited with saving the spinach industry in the 1930s because the cartoon was credited with creating a 33% increase in sales, according to Business Insider.

Of course, it’s not like spinach is a bad vegetable for Popeye to consume for strength.

It’s loaded with an assortment of vitamins, minerals, nutrients and antioxidents that have a numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of damage to the brain and nervous system, maintaining gastrointestinal health, muscle growth, bone and skin health, helping with vision and keeping blood sugar stable.

There are also some potential side effects of consuming spinach, and both pros and cons are listed in this article by MedicineNet.

But as fans of Popeye pay tribute today, the tale of his obsession with spinach is a life reminder that sometimes glaring mistakes can lead to incredible success stories.

 Graham Media Group 2024

To continue reading, please go to the original article here:

https://www.wsls.com/features/2024/01/17/how-popeyes-obsession-with-spinach-was-created-from-glaring-misprint/

POPEYE® THE SAILOR MAN DAY | January 17

POPEYE® THE SAILOR MAN DAY | January 17

 January 17 marks the 95th Birthday of the world’s most famous spinach loving, nautical hero — it's Popeye the Sailor Man! Today, we are taking epic strides to honor this legendary sailor who is tough and fit with tons of grit, as one of America’s most renown, pop-culture icons. After all, he yam what he yam!

#PopeyeTheSailorManDay

Popeye is the seeming underdog with bulging forearms, a mean uppercut, and a love of canned spinach. He is a defender of the weak and protector of those he loves. As the embodiment of strength and fitness, Popeye inspires us all to work hard, care for others, be persistent, and stay strong to the finish. Of course, all with the help of a hefty amount of spinach. In 2024, we are celebrating 95 years of this iconic figure, and the timeless inspiration Popeye has brought to billions of people. 

Popeye was created by Elzie Crisler (E.C) Segar and made his first appearance in the comic strip "Thimble Theatre" on January 17, 1929. Originally created as a minor character, Popeye quickly became a super star. By 1938, the comic changed its name to “Popeye,” creating one of the most iconic cultural comic strips of all time.

Popeye has appeared in 1000s of comic strips, over 600 cartoon episodes, and over 100 books since his creation. Today, he has over 9.6 million followers on social media! Popeye is ingrained in pop culture and is one of the most recognizable and beloved cartoon characters in the world.

15 Fun Facts about Popeye®

1. Popeye is 10 years younger than Olive Oyl! He walked on to her strip, “Thimble Theatre,” as a bit character in 1929 and became so popular the strip was eventually renamed “Popeye.”

2. Before spinach became the source of Popeye’s super strength, his power came from rubbing the head of a magical Whiffle Hen named Bernice!

3. Popeye is known as Braccio di Ferro (“Iron Arm”) in Italy, Karl Alfred in Sweden, and Skipper Skraek ("Terror of the Sea") in Denmark.

4. Popeye made his silver screen debut on July 14, 1933 appearing in the Betty Boop cartoon entitled "Popeye the Sailor." The cartoon was produced by Fleischer Studios and distributed by Paramount Pictures. 

5. The song "I'm Popeye the Sailor Man" was released in 1933. Composed by Sammy Lerner, the song gave birth to one of Popeye’s most famous catch phrases “I’m strong to da finich ‘cause I eats me spinach.”

6. Popeye is recognized for his influence on America's spinach consumption, so much so that Crystal City, TX, the Spinach Capital of the World, erected a statue in his honor in 1937.

7. The Popeye Village in Malta was developed for the 1980 Popeye movie starring Robin Williams. The village still exists today and has grown into a major tourist attraction in the Maltese Islands.

8. Popeye has inspired many iconic pop-artists over the year, including Andy Warhol (1961), Roy Lichtenstein (1961) and Jeff Koons (2002).

9. In Summer 1976, Tokyo based Magazine House launches the “Popeye” magazine. The magazine was the first fashion and lifestyle magazine to be published in Japan that targets young, Japanese men. The magazine is named “Popeye” because the creator’s son was a fan.

10. In 1957, Popeye’s balloon first appeared in the Macy’s Day parade. Interestingly, Olive Oyl became the first female balloon to join the parade in the early 1980’s.

11. Popeye was featured as the Google Doodle in 2009 to honor creator E.C. Segar’s birthday.

12. Popeye is a clean ocean advocate and ambassador for ocean conservation and clean up organization known as The SeaCleaners.

13. Chester, IL, the birthplace of Popeye creator, E.C. Segar, honors hometown hero the Popeye & Friends Character Trail. Every year, granite statues representing the wide cast of characters from Segar’s Thimble Theatre cartoon strips are added to the trail throughout the city.

14. Good Housekeeping’s Nutrition Lab awarded Popeye the “Good Housekeeping Nutritionist Approved Emblem” in their January/February 2024 issue to celebrate his decades-long commitment to healthy eating, fitness as well as his efforts in ocean conservation. Popeye is the first "person" to receive this honor.

15. New Popeye comic strips are still released weekly! You can find the latest strip by Randy Milholland at ComicsKingdom.com.

 To continue reading, please go to the original article here:

https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/popeye-the-sailor-man-day-january-17

Saturday Night "Humor While We Wait" Posted by Mot at TNT

TNT:

Mot:  I had a phone conversation today with a very nice chap. This is how it went:

 "Hello sir, how are you today?"

"I'm very well, thank you for asking. And how are you? And more to the point, WHO are you?"

"Sir, my name is Mike, and I'm calling you from Microsoft"

"Mike from Microsoft, eh?

" Yes, sir - MICROSOFT, the computer company. I'm calling to tell you that we have found a problem with your computer and -"

"REALLY?? Well, that's quite concerning......"

"Yes sir, it can become very serious indeed, but thankfully I will be able to fix it for you. Now, if you -”

"No, I meant it's very concerning because you see I don't HAVE a computer"

"You don't?"

"I don't"

"Ahh, it must be a problem on your laptop sir"

"Don't have one"

"Ipad?"

"Nope"

"Tablet?"

"Nope, I have none of those things. As a matter of fact, I don't even have a telephone"

After a few seconds of silence he said "Ah sir, you are lying to me now!"

I said "Well, you started it!!" and put the phone down.

************

Mot:  “From the top of my head down to my waist I have nothing to declare.”

An attractive young woman on a flight from Ireland asked the Priest beside her, “Father, may I ask a favor”

“Of course child. What may I do for you”

“Well, I bought my mother an expensive hair dryer for her birthday. It is unopened but well over the customs limits and I’m afraid they’ll confiscate it. Is there any way you could carry it through Customs for me.. Hide it under your robes perhaps”

“I would love to help you, dear, but I must warn you, I will not lie.”

“With your honest face, Father, no one will question you,” she replied.

When they got to Customs, she let the priest go first. The official asked, “Father, do you have anything to declare”

“From the top of my head down to my waist I have nothing to declare.”

The official thought this answer strange, so asked, “And what do you have to declare from your waist to the floor”

Father replied, “I have a marvelous instrument designed to be used on a woman, which is, to date, unused.”

Roaring with laughter, the official said, “Go ahead, Father. Next please!”

Mot: ......... Uh Oh!! --- Warning!~!!

Mot:  .. Sum insight into ""Online Dating"" 

Mot: ... sssshhhhhhh -- This un is fer ""Guys Only"" Secret Stuff You see....

New Years "Humor While We Wait" Posted by Mot at TNT

TNT:

Mot:  It's almost 2024, and I still have so many unanswered questions!!!!

I haven’t found out who let the dogs out!

where’s the beef?

How to get to Sesame Street?

Why Dora doesn’t just use Google Maps?

Why do all flavors of fruit loops taste exactly the same?

How many licks does it take to get to the center of a tootsie pop?

Why eggs are packaged in a flimsy carton, but batteries are secured in plastic that’s tough as nails?

What does the fox say?

Why “abbreviated” is such a long word?

Why is there a D in ‘fridge’ but not in refrigerator???

Why do you have to “put your two cents in” but it’s only a “penny for your thoughts” where’s that extra penny going to??

Why does The Alphabet Song and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star have the same tune... why did you just try to sing those two previous songs?

Just what exactly is Victoria’s secret?

Finally where is Waldo???

*************

Mot: .... Ya gots to Plan Ahead!!!

Mot:  Sooooooooo -- What Exactly is a ~~~~~~new years resolution

Mot:  . Say!!! --- Can I borrow your doggie?

Mot: works Every Year it Does... 

Mot: decisions ... decisions ... decisions

Christmas "Humor While We Wait" Posted by Mot at TNT

TNT:

Mot:  The Little Angel on the Top of the Christmas Tree!

One particular Christmas season a long time ago, Santa was getting ready for his annual trip but there were problems everywhere. Four of his elves got sick, and the trainee elves did not produce the toys as fast as the regular ones so Santa was beginning to feel the pressure of being behind schedule. Then Mrs. Claus told Santa that her Mom was coming to visit; this stressed Santa even more.

When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two had jumped the fence and were out at heaven knows where. More stress.

Then when he began to load the sleigh one of the boards cracked and the toy bag fell to the ground and scattered the toys. So, frustrated, Santa went into the house for a cup of coffee and a shot of whiskey. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered that the elves had hid the liquor and there was nothing to drink.

In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the coffeepot and it broke into hundreds of little pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found that mice had eaten the straw it was made of. Just then the doorbell rang and Santa cussed on his way to the door. He opened the door and there was a little angel with a great big Christmas tree.

The angel said, very cheerfully, "Merry Christmas Santa. Isn't it just a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Isn't it just a lovely tree? Where would you like me to stick it?

Thus began the tradition of the little angel on top of the tree.

*************

Mot: ... ole ""Earl"" - a Man after me own Heart! – LOL

Mot:  She's going to love it. She keeps asking me what it is but she'll just after wait.

Mot:  .. Not Meeeee... Noooppers!! ((( Heee heee heeee )))

Mot:  .. Not Again!!!???... Maybe This Year!!! 

Mot: . Wellllllllllll - This is a Bummer!!! ~~~

Mot: ...... Happy Moments

Christmas "Humor While We Wait" posted by Mot at TNT

TNT:

Mot:  The Christmas Doll from Santa !!!!.............

As a joke, my brother Jay used to hang a pair of panty hose
over his fireplace before Christmas. He said all he wanted
was for Santa to fill them.

What they say about Santa checking the list twice must
be true because every Christmas morning, although Jay's
kids' stockings overflowed, his poor pantyhose hung
sadly empty.

One year I decided to make his dream come true. I put
on sunglasses and went in search of an inflatable love
doll. They don't sell those things at Wal-Mart. I had to
go to an adult bookstore downtown.

If you've never been in an X-rated store, don't
go, you'll only confuse yourself. I was there an
hour saying things like, 'What does this do?'
'You're kidding me!' 'Who would buy
that?' Finally, I made it to the inflatable doll
section.

I wanted to buy a standard, uncomplicated doll that could
also substitute as a passenger in my truck so I could use
the car pool lane during rush hour.

Finding what I wanted was difficult. 'Love Dolls'
come in many different models. The top of the line,
according to the side of the box, could do things
I'd only seen in a book on animal husbandry. I settled
for 'Lovable Louise.' She was at the bottom of the
price scale.

To call Louise a 'doll' took a huge leap of imagination.

On Christmas Eve and with the help of an old bicycle pump,
Louise came to life.

My sister-in-law was in on the plan and let me in during
the wee morning hours. Long after Santa had come and gone, I
filled the dangling pantyhose with Louise's pliant legs
and bottom. I also ate some cookies and drank what remained
of a glass of milk on a nearby tray. I went home, and
giggled for a couple of hours.

The next morning my brother called to say that Santa had
been to his house and left a present that had made him VERY
happy, but had left the dog confused. She would bark,
start to walk away, then come back and bark some more.

We all agreed that Louise should remain in her pantyhose so
the rest of the family could admire her when they came over
for the traditional Christmas dinner.

My grandmother noticed Louise the moment she walked in the
door. 'What the hell is that?' she asked.

My brother quickly explained, 'It's a doll.'

'Who would play with something like that?' Granny snapped.

I kept my mouth shut.

'Where are her clothes?' Granny continued.

'Boy, that turkey sure smells nice, Gran,' Jay
said, to steer her into the dining room.

But Granny was relentless. 'Why doesn't she have any teeth?'

Again, I could have answered, but why would I? It was
Christmas and no one wanted to ride in the back of the
ambulance saying, 'Hang on Granny, hang on!'

My grandfather, a delightful old man with poor eyesight,
sidled up to me and said, 'Hey, who's the naked gal
by the fireplace?' I told him she was Jay's friend.

A few minutes later I noticed Grandpa by the mantel,
talking to Louise. Not just talking, but actually flirting.
It was then that we realized this might be Grandpa's
last Christmas at home.

The dinner went well. We made the usual small talk about
who had died, who was dying, and who should be killed, when
suddenly Louise made a noise like my father in the bathroom
in the morning. Then she lurched from the mantel, flew
around the room twice, and fell in a heap in front of the
sofa.

The cat screamed. I passed cranberry sauce through my
nose, and Grandpa ran across the room, fell to his knees,
and began administering mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

My brother fell back over his chair and wet his pants.

Granny threw down her napkin, stomped out of the room, and
sat in the car.

It was indeed a Christmas to treasure and remember.

Later in my brother's garage, we conducted a thorough
examination to decide the cause of Louise's collapse. We
discovered that Louise had suffered from a hot ember to the
back of her right thigh.

Fortunately, thanks to a wonder drug called duct tape, we
restored her to perfect health..

I can't wait until next Christmas

Mot: ........ ooooooooh Nooooooooooo -- say it aint Soooooo 

Mot:  . UH OOOOOOH!!!!! 

Mot:  aaaaahhhhhhhh - Hmmmmmm -- Asking fer a Friend!!!

"Tidbits From TNT" Thursday 12-14-2023

TNT:

Tishwash:  Dubai is hosting a meeting of delegations from the Iraqi Central Bank, the Federal Reserve, and the US Treasury

Today, Thursday (December 14, 2023), the Central Bank of Iraq announced the end of its meetings with the delegation of the Federal Reserve and the US Department of the Treasury in Dubai.

The bank's media office stated in a statement received by "Baghdad Al-Youm", that "the delegation of the Central Bank of Iraq concluded its meetings with the delegation of the US Federal Reserve and the US Treasury Department in Dubai."

He added, "Representatives of the US Federal Reserve and the US Treasury appreciated the efforts made by the Central Bank of Iraq during the year 2023 to achieve compliance with the Iraqi banking system."

He pointed out that "the meetings resulted in a number of agreements related to supporting the policies of the Central Bank of Iraq in its orientation to support Iraqi banks in establishing relationships with correspondent banks and the gradual transition of operations to enhance the advance balance of the accounts of these banks, and this is consistent with what the Central Bank of Iraq previously announced in its plan to gradually reduce From relying on the electronic platform to ending its work within the next year and limiting it to recording financial transfers for the purposes of control, auditing and analysis.”

According to the statement, the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Al-Alaq, confirmed that “the Central Bank is determined to support Iraqi banks, enhance their capabilities and prepare them to work in accordance with international practices,” while the statement explained that “it was agreed and approved by the above authorities to meet the requests of the Central Bank of Iraq for cash shipments for the year 2024".

He pointed out that "the meetings witnessed a number of understandings that aim to build the capabilities of Iraqi banks and enhance their compliance with international standards."  link

************

CandyKisses:  IMF selects Saudi Arabia to chair monetary affairs committee

Baghdad Today – Follow-up

Today, Thursday (December 14, 2023), the International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced the selection of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to chair the International Monetary and Finance Committee, noting that Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan will be Chairman of the Committee .

The Committee is working to provide support to the IMF Board of Governors in the area of oversight of the global monetary and financial system, including measures to address events that may cause disruptions to the system.

The Saudi Press Agency quoted Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan as saying that "the selection of Saudi Arabia to chair the International Monetary and Financial Committee for the period 2024-2027 reflects confidence in its leadership position globally and regionally and its pivotal role in strengthening "multilateral international action."

The International Monetary and Financial Committee discusses issues related to promoting the growth and stability of the global economy, ensuring global financial stability, and a key platform for providing strategic direction for the work and policies of the IMF.

The 24-member committee is composed of finance ministers and central bank governors and bases its work and decision-making mechanism on consensus, including the selection of its chairman, and meets twice a year, as well as meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group.

************

Tishwash:  Iraq announces the arrest of those involved in the attack on the American embassy in central Baghdad

Special Forces Major General Yahya Rasul Abdullah, spokesman for the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, announced on Thursday the arrest of some of those involved in the missile attack that targeted the American embassy and the Iraqi National Security Service building in the center of the capital, Baghdad, indicating that some of them are connected to the security services.

Major General Abdullah said in a statement today that the attack that occurred on December 7, 2023, which targeted the Embassy of the United States of America, the headquarters of the National Security Service, and some government buildings, is an attack on the security and sovereignty of Iraq.

He stressed that such attacks cannot be tolerated or tolerated. Because of the serious threat it represents to the country’s security and stability, the damage it causes to Iraq’s reputation and dignity, and the questioning of its credibility as a sovereign state capable of fulfilling its international obligations and ensuring the safety of its citizens and residents, especially diplomatic missions.

Major General Abdullah also confirmed that the security services began investigating the incident to find the perpetrators and bring them to justice, under the direct guidance of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani.

He added, "Our security services, after extensive technical and intelligence efforts, were able to identify the perpetrators, as preliminary information showed that some of them, unfortunately, are connected to some security services, and after the judicial authorities issued investigation and arrest orders against them," pointing out that "the security services... The security forces arrested a number of them, and search and investigation efforts are still continuing to reach everyone who contributed to this attack. The hand of justice will reach them so that they may appear before the competent courts and receive their just punishment in accordance with the law.

The military spokesman for Al-Sudani noted that “the competent authorities had previously succeeded in finding those who helped the perpetrators and provided them with logistical support to reach the implementation area and evacuate them from it, and they were detained in order to take legal measures against them.”

He continued by saying that "Iraq overcoming security challenges, completing the construction of its constitutional institutions and consolidating sovereignty and stability is an achievement that has passed through a path paved by the sacrifices of our people and our armed forces, in all their forms, and it is a fruit that cannot be neglected in the face of all threats," stressing that "there is no alternative to extending security." “Iraq is on the verge of a long-awaited urban and service renaissance, and such attacks only harm the interests of Iraq and its people.”  link

Mot: Poor ole ""Santa"" Has a Tough Year - This Year!!

Mot: Earl is Sooo Helpful during the Season!!!!

"Tidbits From TNT" Wednesday 12-13-2023

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq and the UAE begin financial transfer, trade and import in dirhams

The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, met in Dubai with the Chairman of the First Abu Dhabi Bank Group, Hanaa Al-Rustamani.

During the meeting, according to a statement by the Central Bank, a copy of which {Al-Furat News} received, “it was agreed to launch financial transfer operations between the two countries and to finance trade and imports between Iraq and the United Arab Emirates in the UAE dirham currency through the First Abu Dhabi Bank, as transfer operations in the UAE dirham began this day, Wednesday.” December 13.”

The first phase of this agreement will be, according to the statement, “with five Iraqi banks, which will be gradually increased.”

The Central Bank of Iraq noted that "this step comes within the framework of enabling Iraqi banks to establish relationships with reputable international banks, and it aims towards reducing reliance on the electronic platform for financial transfers and working in accordance with normal international practices adopted in strengthening the balances of Iraqi banks for the purposes of financing trade."

The First Abu Dhabi Bank offered to contribute to financing clean energy projects in Iraq.

It is noteworthy that First Abu Dhabi Bank is one of the largest and strongest financial institutions in the world, with a credit rating of AA-, and its total assets amount to about 300 billion US dollars.  link

************

CandyKisses:  Iraq agrees with the UAE to launch financial transfers and trade financing between the two countries

Shafaq News / The Central Bank of Iraq announced on Wednesday its agreement with the "First Abu Dhabi" bank group in the United Arab Emirates to launch financial transfers, trade financing and imports between the two countries in the UAE dirham currency.

A statement issued by the Central Bank said that Governor Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq met in Dubai with the head of the "Abu Dhabi" Bank Group, Hanaa Al Rostamani, and during the meeting, it was agreed to launch financial transfers between the two countries and finance trade and imports between Iraq and the United Arab Emirates in the currency of the UAE dirham through the First Abu Dhabi Bank.

The statement pointed out that the transfers in the UAE dirham started today, Wednesday, December 13, explaining that the first phase of this agreement will be with five Iraqi banks to be gradually increased.

According to the statement, this step comes within the framework of enabling Iraqi banks to establish relations with solid global banks, and it is aimed at reducing reliance on the electronic platform for financial transfers and working in accordance with normal international practices adopted in strengthening the assets of Iraqi banks for trade finance purposes.

The statement noted that First Abu Dhabi Bank offered to contribute to the financing of clean energy projects in Iraq.

It is noteworthy that the "First Abu Dhabi Bank" is one of the largest and most powerful financial institutions in the world, with a credit rating -AA, and its total assets are about 300 billion US dollars.

************

Tishwash:  The Governor of the Central Bank visits the branch of the International Development Bank in Dubai

His Excellency the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Mr. Ali Mohsen Ismail, visited the branch of the International Development Bank in Dubai.

After congratulating the bank and its management, he informed him of the progress of the procedures taken in the branch, providing full support to the bank branch, appreciating its role in strengthening economic relations between Iraq and the United Arab Emirates.

Central Bank of Iraq
Media Office,   link

************

Tishwash:  Visa” cooperates with the “Exchange” and “Earthlink” companies to educate the Iraqi consumer about the advantages of digital payments

The leading global company in the field of digital payments, Visa, cooperated with the payment services provider, “Exchange,” and the largest Internet service provider, “Earthlink” (the National Internet Project), to organize an awareness campaign in the form of a training workshop to educate Iraqis about the advantages of digital payments. This initiative comes as a continuation of the ongoing awareness campaign organized by Visa for merchants and consumers in cooperation with the Central Bank of Iraq and with the support of Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani.

The workshop, which was launched on November 15, 2023 and required the personal attendance of participants, aims to train the Earthlink team/agents, who in turn will be able to educate their user base, which exceeds 2 million users. The training will cover various topics, including the use of cards in daily transactions via points of sale, e-commerce, as well as the use of cards in ATMs. In addition, participants will receive guidance on how to make informed financial decisions and the security of digital payments.

As part of the campaign, a strategic initiative to introduce a co-branded prepaid card in collaboration with Earthlink is currently being implemented. The initiative aims to provide additional benefits to Earthlink users and agents participating in the electronic payment system. To stimulate participation, Al-Tabadul and Earthlink will encourage agents and users to obtain the Al-Tabadul Visa card and facilitate their membership payments through the card.

Commenting on the matter, Laila Sarhan, Regional Director and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors to lead the company’s business in North Africa, the Levant countries and Pakistan, said: “At Visa, we believe that strategic partnerships play a crucial role in achieving financial inclusion. Therefore, we are excited to cooperate with the two companies, the Exchange.” ' and 'Earthlink' (the National Internet Project) to empower and support the Iraqi consumer. Over the past few years, Visa has collaborated closely with the Central Bank of Iraq and key players in the sector, in line with the goals of Iraq Vision 2030 to promote financial inclusion within a diversified economy. “Our mission is to connect the world through an innovative, reliable and secure payment network, to enable individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. The electronic payment awareness campaign is another step in this direction.”

For his part, Ahmed Shaker, CEO of Al-Tabadul, said: “We realize that many users in Iraq still use cash transactions, which can be inconvenient and risky, keeping them excluded from the formal financial sector. We are pleased to cooperate today with Visa.” And 'Earthlink' to enhance awareness of digital payment options and integrate the Iraqi people into a financially inclusive environment. Our goal through the campaign is to reach more than two million Iraqis within the 'Earthlink' network (the national internet project), to support Iraq's progress in the field of strengthening the digital economy."

Visa has always embraced innovation to lead the way in building the largest, most dynamic and global open global network of technology, partnerships and people. In Iraq, Visa has led several initiatives and collaboration projects, marking an important milestone with the introduction of the country's first digital payment and multi-currency cards    link

Mot: Ya Knows! - They Says!!!

Mot: sooo All I Want for Christmas is ~~~~~~

More "Tidbits From TNT" Tuesday Night 12-12-2023

TNT:

CandyKisses:  Iraq begins electoral silence on Friday. Documents

Shafaq News / The Media and Communications Commission announced, on Monday, that the "electoral silence" begins from next Friday, December 15, until the closure of the last electoral center.

This came in a book sent by the authority to media institutions in which it called on the institutions to abide by electoral silence and not to promote any entity or candidate.

Electoral silence is a period determined by law preceding every presidential or parliamentary elections, in which the practice of political propaganda is prohibited, during which all parties and independent and coalition parties are prohibited from exercising any activity within the framework of their electoral campaign, and in which candidates are strictly prohibited from carrying out any process that falls within the promotion, propaganda and winning the favor of voters.

CandyKisses:  Parliamentary Finance: Government transactions other than the dollar will contribute to fixing its official rate

Information/Baghdad

The Parliamentary Finance Committee confirmed on Tuesday that the government's orientation towards currencies other than the dollar in foreign dealings will contribute to fixing its official rate of 1,320 dinars to the dollar.

A member of the committee, Jamal Kojar, said in an interview with Al-Maalouma that "the government's orientation towards currencies other than the dollar will facilitate the issue of trade on the one hand and push traders to deal with the platform more and reduce pressure on the dollar instead of focusing on it, stressing that it will contribute to stabilizing its official price."

He added, "The government has spent only 20% of the current year's budget, and it is assumed that after December 20, a good part of the budget will be spent for five days until the accounts are closed."

A member of the Parliamentary Finance Committee pointed out that "with the beginning of the new year, the budget tables for the next year 2024 will be sent."

************

CandyKisses:  Integrity Commission: "Where did you get this?" campaign succeeded in recovering $ 10 million to the state treasury

Economy Baghdad News

The head of the Federal Integrity Commission, Judge Haider Hanoune, announced on Tuesday the success of the "Where did you get this?" campaign by recovering $ 10 million and 100 billion dinars to the state treasury.

Hanoun said in a speech during his participation in the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, and followed by "Economy News", that "there is a lack of cooperation by the countries that host the smuggled corruption funds to return them to Iraq," noting that "there are unprecedented achievements achieved by the current government during the first year of its life in terms of combating corruption and preventing its spread."

"The government has placed the fight against corruption at the top of its government programme and allocated the necessary funds to finance anti-corruption programs in the tripartite budget," he said, pointing out that "there is collective action between the three authorities in Iraq to combat corruption and support the efforts of the Integrity Commission and enable it to carry out its job duties."

"The Integrity Commission's success in activating the National Strategy for Integrity and Anti-Corruption and its inclusion of various organizational levels, as well as its success in forming a field media team to communicate with the media and investigative journalism in the field of monitoring corruption cases," Hannun said.

"The Integrity Commission launched a campaign where did you get this? For illicit gain operations, through which more than 10 million US dollars and more than 100 billion Iraqi dinars were recovered," noting that "the commission has intensified the seizure of bribers of the crime witnessed recently

Mot: Poor ole ""Earl"" siigghhhhhh

Mot: .. Now That Un - Worked fur HIm!!! 

Thanksgiving "Humor While We Wait" 11-23-2023

HOLIDAY EATING TIPS

1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the holiday spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.

2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. It's rare... You cannot find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-alcoholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!

3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.

4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.

5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Holiday party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?

6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.

7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you’re never going to see them again.

8. Same for pies. Apple, Pumpkin, Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?

9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.

10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Re-read tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner.

Remember this motto to live by: “ life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate and wine in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming “WOO HOO what a ride!"

Have a great holiday season!! 

 *****************

Mot:  .. Don't Forget Now!!!  Set scale back 10 pounds

Mot: Thanksgiving with Kids

Mot: ... Very Thankful fer ~~~~~ 

Mot... Sooooo Glad I Read the Directions Early Enough!!!! 

Mot: .. The ""PIE"" ....... 

Mot:  Crazy Tradition fur Sure

Mot:  Dinner Was Great Mum - gunna Watch the Game Now!!! – siggghhhh 

Enough Talk... Let's See Some Action! by Dr. Dinar (From Recaps Archives)

Thank you Dr. Dinar!!!

Enough Talk... Let's See Some Action! by Dr. Dinar

I don't know about you but I'm pretty much done.

To the point where I'm done hearing it's done.

As in everything's done.

Done... duh duh duh DONE!

Like, really done.

Done to the point where there's nothing left to do.

Nothing left to do because it truly is done.

That's definitely closer to my definition of the word done.

Admittedly, I like everything I eat to be well done.

Even to the point of refusing to eat Sushi unless it's well done.

So, perhaps I'm a bit more demanding when it comes to the true definition of the word done.

Nevertheless, it shouldn't be all that difficult to determine the difference between done and close to done but not actually done, therefore it's not done.

First place to start might be with the persistent rumors continually permeating all throughout Dinarland.

Rumors of everything being done.

How long have we been hearing that.

Seems to me, according to my Dinarland calendar, it's been done for at least the last two years.

And yet, here we are.

Not done.

Would we be hearing all these rumors if indeed everything truly were done?

Not likely.

On second thought, we might still be drowning in rumors but chances are they'd have a more post-process, after the GCR kind of feel to them as opposed to the same ol' this is our week or it's gonna pop this Saturday night or we're only expecting to do one more call, our Celebration call kinda rumors.

So please, don't get me wrong.

I'm not expecting Dinarland to go completely rumorless overnight.

i mean, let's not get crazy here.

But wouldn't it be nice to hear a different batch of rumors for a change.

An extremely welcome change to say the least.

Well, I for one would certainly love it anyway.

Even better yet, I'd enjoy seeing that it's done based solely on the number of zero's in my bank account.

That's the kind of proof I'd enjoy seeing.

As it is now I'm still unable to make a trip through the In-N-Out drive thru and order a Double Double with grilled onions, well done, and have any means of paying for it when it's done cookin', all wrapped up and ready for release.

Until that day comes, it's still not done.

And while I'm on the subject of phrases I can hardly wait to never hear again, let's start with it CAN happen today.

Sheesh, give it a rest.

As far as I'm concerned it could've happened any day over the past one thousand days.

Yes, I'm more than aware that they needed to reinvent the current banking system to accept the GCR formula as well as numerous other changes required to release the GCR.

But you get my drift.

Enough with the talk.

I'm ready for some action.

I want to know it WILL happen!

As in today.

Or any other day ending in "y".

Even better yet, I'd love to hear that IT HAS HAPPENED!

As in past tense, check your emails, make your appointment, grab your "To Go" bag and get to the Exchange Center ASAP!

Is that too much to ask.

Just a factual confirmation of completion, in whatever form it comes.

Be it an email, a barrage of posts all throughout Dinarland or a Piper Cub draggin' a giant banner across the sky with a 1-800-CALLNOW number plastered on it.

At this point, I'm not about to be picky.

I'm open to most any form of communication.

Make it a fortune cookie.

Why not a clever saying on a Starbucks cup.

Heck, at this point I'll settle for a homing pigeon with a Post-it note taped to its leg.

What I'm trying to say is I'm flexible.

Whatever it takes, just send me a for real signal of this thing having reached the end of the line.

Of actually reaching a conclusion.

Actually being concluded.

As in DONE.

Talk is cheap.

No more rumors.

We don't need any more stinkin' rumors, regardless of whose super secret source supplies 'em.

We need action.

Action, leading to results.

Results resulting in our receiving our exchange instructions.

I've pretty much had enough of the boy crying wolf.

To the point where I'm ready to sic the wolf on him and let him eat, just to get the kid to shut up.

As I mentioned earlier, enough already.

We've lived through the rumor stage of this adventure for far too long.

It's time to begin the action phase.

As we've always been told, actions speak louder than rumors.

And after all, isn't that exactly what a rumor is.

A bunch of words lined up in the form of a sentence, completely void of all action.

In other words, just words.

And words don't pay the bills.

So to whomever it may be that's supposedly working feverishly on completing the GCR, forever claiming we're close, please feel free to call it "close enough" and dispatch the "GO" email ASAP!

And to those out there rumored to still be throwin' wrenches, please feel free to close the lid on your toolboxes and call it a day.

You have to know when enough is enough.

And let's face it, enough is enough.

We all know this GCR thing is going to happen eventually, the rest of the world has committed to it.

Why not do the right thing by all involved and go ahead and release it.

Then we can all move on to something much more interesting.

Like life beyond Dinarland.

Hang in there folks.

According to the latest rumors, we're right on top of this thing and it has to happen soon.

If not, the entire global economy will crash.

And supposedly they don't want that to happen.

Or do they.

Who knows what they want.

Who even knows who "they" are.

Chances are they don't even know who they are, nor what they want.

Maybe that's why they can't seem to get anything accomplished.

They have no idea what it is they're supposed to be doing.

This thing is so compartmentalized that they forgot to create the "GO Signal"  Department.

At this point, anything's possible.

Anyway, don't let the rumors get you down.

Just do your best to hang in there, no matter what it takes.

Kindly,

Dr. Dinar

Disclaimer; I'm not a Wealth Manager, Financial Advisor, CPA, Tax Attorney, RV/GCR Committee member, a Federale of the Spanish Mounted Police, nor am I in search of the treasure of the Sierra Madre. I'm simply someone that chooses to believe in the power of positive thinking and on the odd chance this thing truly is real, I want to make sure I'm there at the finish line to enjoy it.