Welcome! If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed so you won't miss the Blarties (=blog+party) on the weekends. To find out more about our Blarties check out this post, too. Looking forward to seeing you on the weekends!

I just pulled myself back together after coming across an online news article about a very tragic accident that, yes, rightfully should be reported. Why do I have a bone to pick? Because I can’t for the life of me figure out WHY the media finds it necessary to publish pictures of an accident such as some of the ones published of the accident about which I’m referring!

I’m not including a link to the article because I don’t want somebody in the family to come across the article or pics via links in my blog. The accident involved a tanker truck hauling 7600 gallons of diesel, and, no, the driver didn’t survive.

If only they would take the time to stop and think about the profound effect such detailed pictures will have on some if not all of the family members of the people involved in accidents. If only they would stop and realize that it’s really NOT necessary to satisfy the public’s appetite for such at the expense of the family of the deceased. If only they would think about how EASY it is these days for the child/children of a loved one lost in an accident to find and see the pictures.

Are they not taught or instructed in journalism to be more mindful of the power of their pictures and words and how they can deeply affect a loved one?! I lost my Dad in a very similar accident 31 years ago and I STILL don’t like seeing pictures like this! Now stop and think of what the loved ones of this man will think, feel, and imagine after seeing that at this early stage.

This is twice in just a years time I’ve contacted a news agency (two different agencies) and made my opinion and feelings known about this matter. Both times involved tankers. Journalists, PLEASE get OVER your sensationalist attitudes! Bring us THAT type of news gently. We (referring to the public) DON’T need to experience the shock of a picture that can be detrimental to the well-being of the family members, momentary or long lasting, thank you!

Popularity: 3% [?]

Ok, pay attention here. That title reads “Internet ACCESS Sales Tax Ban”, NOT “Internet Sales Sales Tax Ban”. Just want to make sure that’s understood before I go any further.

Here’s the scoop…according to a monthly newsletter I receive as a member of the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, effective November 1, 2007 you won’t have to worry about paying sales tax on your internet access for the next 7 years. Now doesn’t that make you a happy camper?

I’m sure those of you living in states that had such taxes on their books are definitely happy campers. If the ban hadn’t been extended, those sales taxes would’ve been effective immediately.

Rejoice! That’s one less tax we have to pay…for a few years anyway.

Popularity: 10% [?]

I just completed my website/blog for my bookkeeping services. You can see it at Betts Best Bookkeeping. I’ve worked in the accounting/bookkeeping field for 20 years and took a bit of a hiatus. Not what I would call a retirement or even a semi-retirement. Just a break.

Once called upon by a former co-worker that needed assistance with the bookkeeping for his new business, I decided to jump back in. It’s been good. I didn’t realize how much I missed crunching numbers. I have this thing about crunching numbers and organizing facts. I get a lot of satisfaction when a report balances to the penny.

If you or anybody you know needs assistance with bookkeeping or Quickbooks® software setup and/or training, contact me to discuss the possibility of my services. Other contact information is provided at Betts Best Bookkeeping.

Popularity: 3% [?]