Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Through the Keyhole - September 2023

 

Through the Keyhole

September 2023

Take a break from your day...

Not your typical company OR newsletter

 

 

 

"People who dive off of this bridge are called Mostari.  Three nationalities are here and it is a very diverse culture.  Also, this site is home to many wars and conflicts. At one point this bridge was destroyed.  Tourism is growing fast despite the percieved corruption..."

Can you guess the location?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It's September but OKTOBERFEST is HERE!

As summer sadly comes to a close, we look to the warm days and cool nights of September.  One of the best celebrations is called Oktoberfest in Germany. Although I have never personally made it, I have been to the Hoffbrau House during a different time of year.  A similar experience I am told...

 

Oktoberfest, the world's most famous beer festival, has its origins in a royal celebration. It all began with the wedding of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen on October 12, 1810. The citizens of Munich were invited to join the festivities on the fields in front of the city gates to celebrate the royal union. These fields were named Theresienwiese ("Theresa's Meadow") in honor of the princess.

 

The wedding celebrations included horse races, parades, and various entertainments, which were so well-received that it was decided to repeat the event the following year. Over time, the festivities evolved, and more attractions were added, including beer stands and carnival booths. As beer became an integral part of the event, the festival grew into what we now know as Oktoberfest.

 

What began as a royal wedding celebration nearly two centuries ago has transformed into a global phenomenon, drawing millions of visitors each year to Munich to celebrate Bavarian culture, indulge in traditional food and beer, and partake in the lively atmosphere of Oktoberfest. It's a testament to the enduring power of celebration and community that has transcended generations and cultures.

 

Oktoberfest typically takes place over a period of 16 to 18 days, starting in late September and extending into the first weekend of October. Despite its name, a significant portion of the festival actually occurs in September.

 

Oktoberfest draws in millions of visitors from around the world every year. It's estimated that over 6 million liters of beer are consumed during the festival.

 

Wow.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cybersecurity Incident Response Planning Guide

If a cyberattack hits, the best way to minimize the cost, pain, and disruption is to have a response plan in place. 

 

Based on the real-world experiences of the Sophos Incident Response team, this guide will walk you through how to effectively prepare your organization for cyber incidents, covering:

 

•The critical role of incident response within a cybersecurity strategy

 

• The six distinct phases of the incident management lifecycle and best practices for implementing them

 

• How to plan and develop effective incident response processes to minimize the financial and operational impact of a cyber incident

 

Use these insights to create or update your own plan, and optimize your incident response readiness.

 

Get Started Today by CLICKING HERE.  It is FREE.

 

 

Guess the Location Game

Last month the winner of the guess the location game was
Beth Cutrona who guessed the right answer.  I appreciate all of the participation.  THANKS FOR PLAYING!

 

 

 

 

ANSWER: Prague, Czechia

 

 

 

 

 

 

"This bronze statue may look like a man about to plummet to his death but it's actually Sigmund Freud's likeness. This city has rich history, stunning architecture, good beer and has one of the oldest universities in Europe (1348). Also the location for films like Mission: Impossible, Amadeus and The Chronicals of Narnia."

 

Prague, Czech Praha, city, capital of the Czech Republic. Lying at the heart of Europe, it is one of the continent’s finest cities and the major Czech economic and cultural centre. The city has a rich architectural heritage that reflects both the uncertain currents of history in Bohemia and an urban life extending back more than 1,000 years.

 

Prague is famous for its cultural life. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived there, and his Prague Symphony and Don Giovanni were first performed in the city.

 

Prague is a city rich in history, culture, and fascinating details. Here are some interesting facts about Prague:

1. City of a Hundred Spires: Prague is often referred to as the "City of a Hundred Spires" due to its stunning skyline adorned with numerous churches, cathedrals, and historic buildings.

2. Charles Bridge: The iconic Charles Bridge, built in the 14th century, is a stone bridge adorned with 30 statues of saints. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.

3. Astronomical Clock: Prague's Astronomical Clock, located in the Old Town Square, is the third oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still in operation. It not only shows the time but also displays the position of the sun, moon, and other celestial information.

4. Prague Castle: The Prague Castle is one of the largest ancient castles in the world. It has been the seat of Czech kings, emperors, and presidents for over a thousand years. The complex includes St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.

5. Alchemical History: Prague has a strong association with alchemy and the search for the philosopher's stone, a substance believed to transform base metals into gold and grant immortality. The legend of alchemist Edward Kelley and Emperor Rudolf II's interest in alchemy is tied to the city.

6. Home of Franz Kafka: The famous writer Franz Kafka was born in Prague in 1883. His works, known for their surreal and existential themes, have left a lasting impact on literature.

7. Czech Beer Culture: The Czech Republic is known for its rich beer culture, and Prague is home to many historic pubs and breweries. Pilsner Urquell, one of the world's first pale lagers, was first brewed in the city of Plzeň (Pilsen) nearby.

8. Puppetry and Marionettes: Puppetry is an integral part of Czech culture, and Prague has a long history of puppet theaters. The Czech Puppet Museum celebrates this tradition.

9. Historical Libraries: Prague boasts some impressive libraries, including the Strahov Library with its stunning Baroque halls and vast collection of rare books and manuscripts.

10.              Velvet Revolution: The Velvet Revolution, a non-violent uprising against Communist rule, took place in Prague in 1989. It played a significant role in the fall of Communism in Czechoslovakia.

11.              Czech Cubism: Prague is home to examples of Cubist architecture, a unique artistic movement that extended to design, furniture, and even cubist street lamps.

12.              John Lennon Wall: The John Lennon Wall is a colorful and ever-changing graffiti wall that became a symbol of freedom and protest during the Communist era.

These are just a few of the many intriguing aspects of Prague's history and culture. The city's blend of medieval architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich heritage make it a captivating destination for visitors from around the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street food ~ 3 minutes

 

 

 

 

 

 ~4 minutes

 

 

 

 

 

 ~3 minutes

 

 

 

 

Well this is Random...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chicago World's Fair 1983

 

 

 

 

What it would have looked like in COLOR...

 

 

 

 

4 minutes

 

 

People are Insane.

 

 

 

 

 ~ 3 minutes

 

 

Interesting Survey...

 

 

 

 

Questionnaire

 

What percentage of the United States is black?

 

What percentage of marriages are mixed race?

 

What percentage of the United States is "Latino"?

 

How many families make more than $500,000 per year?

 

What percent of Americans are vegetarians?

 

What percent of Americans live in New York City?

 

What percentage of Americans are 'transgender?

 

The Poll Results

This should be a wake-up call if you don't already know this... A recent poll was conducted by a national polling outfit. Names don't matter. They are all the same. This one was "YouGov." Results to these questions asked of average people on the street:

 

1. What percentage of the country is black?

Questionnaire answers - 41%... Actual 13%.

If you watch commercials, you would think it is 90%.

 

2. What percentage of marriages are mixed race?

Answers 50%... Actual 1%.

If you watch commercials, you would think it is 90%.

 

3. What percentage is "Latino"?

Answers 39%... Actual 17%.

 

4. How many families make more than $500,000 a year?

Answers 26%... Actual figure 1%.

We think a quarter of the country is rich.

 

5. What percent of Americans are vegetarians?

Response? 30%... Actual 5%.

 

6. What percent of Americans live in New York City?

Answers? 30%... Actual 3%.

7. What percentage of Americans are 'transgender?

Answers 22%... Actual number .5% (that is POINT 5)

 

So why do people have such inaccurate thoughts on these counts?

THE MEDIA! The media runs race, gender, and wealth stories constantly. 

 

 

 

Funny

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

That was close...

 

 

 

 

~3 minutes

 

 

Edgy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More Edgy Stuff...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Classic Potatoes au Gratin

 

 

 

 

Ingredients

5 garlic cloves, divided

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature

2 medium shallots, quartered through root ends

2½ cups heavy cream

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon thyme leaves, plus more

4 pounds russet potatoes, scrubbed, very thinly sliced on a mandoline

3 ounces Gruyère, finely grated

1 ounce Parmesan, finely grated

Preparation

1. Step 1

Preheat oven to 325°. Cut 1 garlic clove in half and rub the inside of a 3-qt. shallow baking dish with cut sides. Smear butter all over inside of dish. Bring shallots, cream, salt, pepper, 1 Tbsp. thyme, and remaining 4 garlic cloves to a simmer in a small saucepan over low heat; cook until shallots and garlic are very soft, 15–20 minutes. Let cool slightly. Transfer to a blender; blend until smooth.

Step 2

Arrange potato slices in prepared dish, fanning out a handful at a time and placing in dish at an angle (this ensures every scoop will have tender potatoes from the bottom and crisp edges from the top). Shingle as you work until bottom of dish is covered. Tuck smaller slices into any gaps to fill. Pour cream mixture over potatoes and cover dish tightly with foil. Bake potatoes until tender and creamy, 60–75 minutes. Let cool.

Step 3

Place rack in highest position; heat broiler. Remove foil and top potatoes with Gruyère and Parmesan. Broil until cheese is bubbling and top of gratin is golden brown, 5–10 minutes. Serve topped with more thyme leaves.

Step 4

Do Ahead: Gratin can be baked 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before broiling.

 

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