Vegas & The Aftermath - Diary

[RED-DOG]

I'm not very good with numbers, I don't even know how to do sums on paper, so if I have to calculate a fraction or a percentage or something, I have to try work it out in my head using a convoluted mixture of known formulae, i.e 3x4=12, guesswork, and a lot of grimacing, much to the amusement of Mrs Red, who happened to be at school when maths were taught.

The upshot of this is that I'm marvellous at getting very close to the right answer without having to worry about precision, which is great for working out where you are in a hand of poker, but a bit iffy for filling in your tax return.

But I digress. The thing that fascinates me about numbers in the fact that they didn't exist until man invented them. OK, we didn't invent them as such, but we gave them names and we cut them up into units of just the right quantity to allow us to have things like prime numbers etc.

Looking back over this, it probably makes no sense at all. I know what I mean though, so laugh if you want to, Mrs Red does.

[Rod Paradise]

Saddened to hear that Phil Drabble died today. He must have been very old, 90 or more.

Older readers (or viewers) would remember him from "One Man and His Dog" which ran on BBC2 for many years. Really, the show was about 2 things - the interaction between man & animal, & the countryside. It was astonishingly popular, & it's a sadness that today many viewers seem to prefer to watch twaddle & tripe such as Eastenders & Big Brother.

Phil lived in Abbots Bromley, which is my part of the Country, Staffordshire to be precise, to the west of Derbyshire. Abbots Bromley is west of Burton upon Trent, & sits in the middle of a triangle formed by Uttoxeter, Rugeley, & Stafford. It's stunningly beautiful, very typical English countryside at it's best. He used to have a nature reserve there, which I visited many times with the then girl on my arm, Barbara Moss, who lived in Little Heywood, another idyllic beauty spot.

He was a real man, not an entertainer, just a bloke, a good honest bloke, who got lucky to find himself in TV & all that came with it. His passion was animals, & he knew the countryside like few others. That in itself made him a a very rich man, though I mean spiritually not financially. He'll get an express check-in to Heaven.

You'll be pleased to know that filming for a couple of new episodes of One Man and His Dog will take place in Scotland in late Sept, the shows due to air around Xmas time.

There was an article about one of the contenders in a Scottish paper a few weeks back, he's a little boy who trained a pup his Dad couldn't as it was to scared of adults, the kid's been winning trials since with his dog.

[Karabiner]

Blackjack seems to have changed since you used to play Tony 

[AndrewT]

Or there is an insect which only emeges or pupates every 17 years. WTF has THAT gotta do with Maths? Wel it's strongly connected via a numerical equation, as evolution has taken it to  point where 17 yearly cycles are the only way it can survive. (Prime numbers are weird & wonderful things, believe me).

I caught a snippet of a program about Prime Numbers, it mentioned these insects. Apparently by emerging once every 17 years it avoids meeting its main predator, that and your post was fascinating. Food for a hungry mind.

Exactly that! And how long did that insect live? About a day, I seem to recall.

Don't start me off on Prime Numbers they are my favouriteistest thing of all time.

I assume the programme Robert saw was Music of the Primes. It's being repeated from next Thursday on BBC Four at 1am (I assume 1am Thursday night, rather than 1am Thursday morning). I read the book and it's very good.

Prime numbers are even better than the Fibonacci sequence (and that's already really good).

[AndrewT]

But I digress. The thing that fascinates me about numbers in the fact that they didn't exist until man invented them. OK, we didn't invent them as such, but we gave them names and we cut them up into units of just the right quantity to allow us to have things like prime numbers etc.

Yes, I'd say man discovered numbers rather than invented them.

Whether man evolved or not, the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter will always have been 3.14159265 etc. The growth of a snail's shell, or the pattern of a sunflower's petals exactly follows the Fibonacci sequence, without us knowing anything of it.

The beauty of numbers is that they aren't arbitrary human-made abstract things, they are an inherent part of the universe.

[RED-DOG]

But I digress. The thing that fascinates me about numbers in the fact that they didn't exist until man invented them. OK, we didn't invent them as such, but we gave them names and we cut them up into units of just the right quantity to allow us to have things like prime numbers etc.

Yes, I'd say man discovered numbers rather than invented them.

Whether man evolved or not, the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter will always have been 3.14159265 etc. The growth of a snail's shell, or the pattern of a sunflower's petals exactly follows the Fibonacci sequence, without us knowing anything of it.

The beauty of numbers is that they aren't arbitrary human-made abstract things, they are an inherent part of the universe.

That's what I said.

[tikay]

Blackjack seems to have changed since you used to play Tony 

Sorry Ralph, I've changed it now!

I guess that is where I was going wrong in blackjack, them 23, 27, 29 & 31 calls were a bit iffy in retrospect......

[tikay]

I'm not very good with numbers, I don't even know how to do sums on paper, so if I have to calculate a fraction or a percentage or something, I have to try work it out in my head using a convoluted mixture of known formulae, i.e 3x4=12, guesswork, and a lot of grimacing, much to the amusement of Mrs Red, who happened to be at school when maths were taught.

The upshot of this is that I'm marvellous at getting very close to the right answer without having to worry about precision, which is great for working out where you are in a hand of poker, but a bit iffy for filling in your tax return.

But I digress. The thing that fascinates me about numbers in the fact that they didn't exist until man invented them. OK, we didn't invent them as such, but we gave them names and we cut them up into units of just the right quantity to allow us to have things like prime numbers etc.

Looking back over this, it probably makes no sense at all. I know what I mean though, so laugh if you want to, Mrs Red does.

Tom - have you tried using google for sums? It's superb, & simple.

[RED-DOG]

I'm not very good with numbers, I don't even know how to do sums on paper, so if I have to calculate a fraction or a percentage or something, I have to try work it out in my head using a convoluted mixture of known formulae, i.e 3x4=12, guesswork, and a lot of grimacing, much to the amusement of Mrs Red, who happened to be at school when maths were taught.

The upshot of this is that I'm marvellous at getting very close to the right answer without having to worry about precision, which is great for working out where you are in a hand of poker, but a bit iffy for filling in your tax return.

But I digress. The thing that fascinates me about numbers in the fact that they didn't exist until man invented them. OK, we didn't invent them as such, but we gave them names and we cut them up into units of just the right quantity to allow us to have things like prime numbers etc.

Looking back over this, it probably makes no sense at all. I know what I mean though, so laugh if you want to, Mrs Red does.

Tom - have you tried using google for sums? It's superb, & simple.

Yes, I have used it, and I agree, it's superb. I particularly like the fact that it doesn't mind how you put the info in, you can use words, numbers, or a mixture of both. It's very "Human" in that respect.

[ifm]

So we can finally say which river is longest out of the Nile or the Amazon??

I have a large picture of Vitruvian man on my wall, it still fascinates me.

[Longy]

But I digress. The thing that fascinates me about numbers in the fact that they didn't exist until man invented them. OK, we didn't invent them as such, but we gave them names and we cut them up into units of just the right quantity to allow us to have things like prime numbers etc.

Yes, I'd say man discovered numbers rather than invented them.

Whether man evolved or not, the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter will always have been 3.14159265 etc. The growth of a snail's shell, or the pattern of a sunflower's petals exactly follows the Fibonacci sequence, without us knowing anything of it.

The beauty of numbers is that they aren't arbitrary human-made abstract things, they are an inherent part of the universe.

Also the fibonacci sequence relates to the golden ratio. If you divide consecutive numbers of the fibonacci sequence it converges to the golden ratio which is 1.62 approximately which is commonly used in art and architecture as it the most aesthetically pleasing ratio to have buiding or paintings in 1.62:1.

There are loads of other applications that have disappeared into the mists of mind, surprising how much of your degree you can forget in 4 years.

[tikay]

When I arrived at Walsall on Saturday, I found myself (before I was even lost actually) sat at a table with a few players - Lucy, Thewy, Red, Pete Singleton, Karabiner, Micky Jones (and Nicola, who has dyed her hair blonde, drool....), and Lord Wernick, etc.

His Lordship told me an interesting tale (well I thought it was) about his negotiations with Blue Square for sponsorship in 2008 & 2009.

Apparently, he's reached a sort of agreement cum prop bet, that if he gives up smoking before Christmas this year, they will extend his sponsorship for not 1 year, as being negotiated, but 2 years!

He told me it was OK to put it on blonde, but just to be sure, I checked with Johnny Raab first. He gave a chuckle, & said, I think, it's sort of true. I think there wil be a Press Release about it in a day or two.

To be serious, I think Micky has been an inspired selection by the Blue Square boys. Many sponsored boys miss the point - they are there to "sell" their sponsor's wares, but Micky has been superb. His Deal does not pay him into every Event, but he sorta gets an annual Budget, or spend limit, & has to spead it around the Tourneys. He's one of the few Pros - Thewy is another - who have given the blonde Updaters a "drink", (£50 each, as I recall) & bought them a proper dinner, after he's won an Event that blonde have Updated.  I think he's been a tremendous ambassador for Blue Square, & long may it last.

I have grown to like & respect him more & more, & he's given me so many tips to help my game, as he does to anyone who cares to listen.

He's also older than me.

Johnny Raab, by the way, sounded much more cheerful & upbeat when I spoke to him today. He's gearing up for Luton next week.

[tikay]

Talking of next week's Luton Fessie (actually, it starts this Saturday), a reminder to many of you who have not been to Grosvenor Luton (now "G-Casino, Luton") since the Spring.

1) It's moved. Not far, but it ain't where it was.

2) Membership of the old Grosvenor Luton is NOT valid at the new one. You have to re-join, including bringing photo ID & all that stuff.

3) They will NOT let you in if you are wearing Trainers, or open-toed, sockless, Thewy style sandals, ripped jeans, shell-suits, hoodies, bla bla blas - not under ANY circumstances.

I'm not making a point for or against the "dress rule", but I hate to see the upset caused when folks turn up expecting to play & get refused admission.

Many blondes - some of them quite respectable - have been refused admission, including locals & regulars who have been going there for years.

New Casino, new standards, them's the rules.

PS - You can bring & wear headphones, & I advise that you do. The nightly "entertainment" is mind-numbingly loud.

[snoopy1239]

When I arrived at Walsall on Saturday, I found myself (before I was even lost actually) sat at a table with a few players - Lucy, Thewy, Red, Pete Singleton, Karabiner, Micky Jones (and Nicola, who has dyed her hair blonde, drool....), and Lord Wernick, etc.

His Lordship told me an interesting tale (well I thought it was) about his negotiations with Blue Square for sponsorship in 2008 & 2009.

Apparently, he's reached a sort of agreement cum prop bet, that if he gives up smoking before Christmas this year, they will extend his sponsorship for not 1 year, as being negotiated, but 2 years!

He told me it was OK to put it on blonde, but just to be sure, I checked with Johnny Raab first. He gave a chuckle, & said, I think, it's sort of true. I think there wil be a Press Release about it in a day or two.

To be serious, I think Micky has been an inspired selection by the Blue Square boys. Many sponsored boys miss the point - they are there to "sell" their sponsor's wares, but Micky has been superb. His Deal does not pay him into every Event, but he sorta gets an annual Budget, or spend limit, & has to spead it around the Tourneys. He's one of the few Pros - Thewy is another - who have given the blonde Updaters a "drink", (£50 each, as I recall) & bought them a proper dinner, after he's won an Event that blonde have Updated.  I think he's been a tremendous ambassador for Blue Square, & long may it last.

I have grown to like & respect him more & more, & he's given me so many tips to help my game, as he does to anyone who cares to listen.

He's also older than me.

Johnny Raab, by the way, sounded much more cheerful & upbeat when I spoke to him today. He's gearing up for Luton next week.

Mickey told me this too. I thought it was absolutely bizarre that a 2 year sponsorship deal could be offered on such a basis. Obviosuly they (1) consider him to be a safe bet and perhaps were considering an extension anyhow and (2) believe the publicity/story will be worthwhile and beneficial to the company.

Mickey giving up smoking though won't be easy. He gave up before, apparently, although he only managed a fortnight.

I like this diary, tikay has a natural ability to say what h's thinking making his posts genuine and honest. More please.

[tikay]

When I arrived at Walsall on Saturday, I found myself (before I was even lost actually) sat at a table with a few players - Lucy, Thewy, Red, Pete Singleton, Karabiner, Micky Jones (and Nicola, who has dyed her hair blonde, drool....), and Lord Wernick, etc.

His Lordship told me an interesting tale (well I thought it was) about his negotiations with Blue Square for sponsorship in 2008 & 2009.

Apparently, he's reached a sort of agreement cum prop bet, that if he gives up smoking before Christmas this year, they will extend his sponsorship for not 1 year, as being negotiated, but 2 years!

He told me it was OK to put it on blonde, but just to be sure, I checked with Johnny Raab first. He gave a chuckle, & said, I think, it's sort of true. I think there wil be a Press Release about it in a day or two.

To be serious, I think Micky has been an inspired selection by the Blue Square boys. Many sponsored boys miss the point - they are there to "sell" their sponsor's wares, but Micky has been superb. His Deal does not pay him into every Event, but he sorta gets an annual Budget, or spend limit, & has to spead it around the Tourneys. He's one of the few Pros - Thewy is another - who have given the blonde Updaters a "drink", (£50 each, as I recall) & bought them a proper dinner, after he's won an Event that blonde have Updated.  I think he's been a tremendous ambassador for Blue Square, & long may it last.

I have grown to like & respect him more & more, & he's given me so many tips to help my game, as he does to anyone who cares to listen.

He's also older than me.

Johnny Raab, by the way, sounded much more cheerful & upbeat when I spoke to him today. He's gearing up for Luton next week.

Mickey told me this too. I thought it was absolutely bizarre that a 2 year sponsorship deal could be offered on such a basis. Obviosuly they (1) consider him to be a safe bet and perhaps were considering an extension anyhow and (2) believe the publicity/story will be worthwhile and beneficial to the company.

Mickey giving up smoking though won't be easy. He gave up before, apparently, although he only managed a fortnight.

I like this diary, tikay has a natural ability to say what h's thinking making his posts genuine and honest. More please.

Meanwhile, tikay digs another hole. Amongst those at the table of doom I mentioned pre-the Walsall Tourney was snoops. Sorry, my memory needs a little jogging, unlike my lungs.