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Erin Maxwell

UnBinged: Watching the Detectives — Reviews of ‘Bad Monkey,’ ‘Batman: Caped Crusader’ & ‘A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’

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Evildoers beware. A brand new wave of sleuths has set forth to solve the onslaught of fictional crimes that flooded streaming services as of late. From teen investigators looking for extra credit to classic comic characters in new adventures, these self-appointed detectives are part of a new wave of vigilante do-gooders looking to make streaming a safer place to wander. But are they worth watching? Parent’s take note — “Bad Monkey” and “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” are rated TV-MA and intended for mature audiences, and “Batman: Caped Crusader” is rated TV-14.

(Apple TV+)

‘Bad Monkey’ (AppleTV+)
Mostly known for its tourist-filled beaches, intrusive gator population, mugshots of colorful locals, and large assortment of family friendly theme parks, Florida is also a veritable hotbed for seedy criminal activity, at least according to primetime and cable. In the ’80s, the Sunshine State boasted popular fictional and fashionable vice squads while more modern series offered vigilante serial killers and forensics shows. And now Apple TV+’s new dark comedy offers its take on Florida and those who dwell there. Based on Carl Hiaasen’s cult favorite tome, “Bad Monkey” spotlights greed, corruption and a mystery of missing limbs.

Vince Vaughn steps into the (gum)shoes of curmudgeon Andrew Yancy, a former homicide detective forced to work as a health inspector in the Keys, but hasn’t quite embraced his new role as he still investigates a previous case. After a severed arm is fished out of the harbor, Yancy’s fate becomes a chain reaction of events, one more ludicrous than the next, as each oddball character in his life steps up to the plate for a moment to shine in a bizarre mystery surrounding the detached arm, which may or may not involve a homicide. 

Among the kooks who occupy a spot on Yancy’s short list of possible suspects are Eve Stripling (Meredith Hagner), the arm’s widow who isn’t too bent out of shape about the overall condition of her deceased husband Nick, and Caitlin (Charlotte Lawrence), Nick’s daughter who despises both her father and his choice in wives. Mix in his kinda-sorta girlfriend with a hidden backstory (Michelle Monaghan), a sarcastic coroner (Natalie Martinez), a vexed Bahamian local displaced by Eve and her new beau (Ronald Peet), a real estate bro with no moral compass (Alex Moffat), a voodoo queen (Jodie Turner-Smith), and the titular bad monkey, and the series offers a veritable crockpot of oddballs, eccentrics and outsiders to keep audiences on their toes. 

Though the mystery of the arm quickly unravels with few surprises, the curious collection of deviants who populate this little corner of Florida, as well as Vaughn’s trademark snark — a skill he’s been perfecting since his “Swingers” days — is what makes the series so engrossing. The result is an easy-breezy, well-written jaunt filled with enough off-the-wall moments to hold the attention of even the most persnickety viewer. “Bad Monkey” emphasizes Vaughn’s comedy chops and what he can do with fun material as the series places him firmly back to leading man status.

(Prime Video)

‘Batman: Caped Crusader’ (Prime Video)
Before he became the scowl with a growl in a cowl on the prowl for Gotham’s foul, Batman was a vigilante crime fighter who was viewed as a menace to both law enforcement and lawbreakers. The terror of the night, Batman was an enigma before Gotham City Police Commissioner Jim Gordon learned to trust him as the “World’s Greatest Detective.” And in “Batman: Caped Crusader,” the Dark Knight gets a cultural reset to the golden age as the animated period piece embraces its noir roots to give the bat a proper playground. 

Executive produced by titans of geekdom Bruce Timm, J.J. Abrams and Matt Reeves, “Caped Crusader” continues the long tradition of allowing the toon versions of the Dark Knight to out-gloom his live-action counterparts. Boasting a retro look that harkens back to Bob Kane’s original aesthetic from the Detective Comics era and Max Fleischer’s “Superman” series from the ‘40s, “Caped Crusader” attempts to follow in the large footprints of the much beloved “Batman: The Animated Series” by giving audiences that they want: A brooding Bat with a lively Rogues Gallery, but with a few new twists to keep things intriguing. 

Overhauling classic characters gives the series the ability to explore and create new aspects of their personality and lore. Barbara Gordon is reborn as a headstrong defense attorney while Dr. Harleen Quinzel has kept her medical degree and uses it to her crooked advantage. Oswalda Cobblepot is now a maniacal mama and mob boss, and attorney Harvey Dent is, well, still a jerk. Some things never change.

Hamish Linklater is the latest voice actor to slip on the cape, bringing a proper amount of gravitas to both the Caped Crusader and the man whose millions fund his nighttime proclivities, Bruce Wayne. But the show spares no expense with the rest of the spirited voice cast, including Christina Ricci as Selina Kyle, Diedrich Bader as Dent and Minnie Driver as the Penguin.

“Caped Crusader” digs deep into the shadows of Batman’s history to create fastidiously crafted, slightly macabre stories that both lean into its heritage while retconning the mythology. And while not every episode is a grand slam — there are a few misses here and there — the core stories should appeal to longtime fans looking for new Batman adventures.

‘A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’ (Netflix)
Five years ago, the small village of Little Kilton, Buckinghamshire, was rocked to its core by the murder of Andie Bell (India Lillie Davies), a popular high school student who was killed by her boyfriend Sal (Rahul Pattni), who then took his own life due to the guilt. But thanks to a meddling kid with an ambitious school project, Andie’s case isn’t quite as open and shut as it once was. 

(Netflix)

Welcome to “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder,” based on the book series by Holly Jackson. The “Good Girl” in question is 17-year-old Pippa “Pip” Fitz-Amobi (Emma Myers), a true crime enthusiast with a soft spot for Andie’s ex, and thus a reason to prove him innocent. Pip means to solve Andie’s case and find her true killer, regardless of the fact that few others want her to investigate.

“A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” combines teen drama with crime procedurals to create a riveting series made endearing by solid performances from its young cast. Though not the most complex character to ever emerge in the teen gumshoe space, Pip is definitely charming. Compelled to always tell the truth no matter what and curious to the point of self-peril, Pip makes an admirable Nancy Drew 2.0 for the Gen Z sect. Part Encyclopedia Brown, part modern-day Velma without the horrific revision from Kelly Kapoor, Myers carries the series and manages to stay amiable despite her constant prying.   

The mystery series is perfect for the young at heart who love a good teen whodunit, but a bit juvenile for those looking to feed their need for the usual foreboding murder show. Myers and her cohorts share an authentic chemistry while she pesters her way through Andie’s former friend group to find the answers she requires, making them equally annoyed and angry, and perhaps even dangerous. The series is overall a bit too sugary-sweet to truly scratch the itch for any true crime junkie looking for a fix. But for fans of teen dramas who like their saccharine entertainment with a hint of darkness, “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” can satisfy that sweet tooth.

Published August 21, 2024

Florida officials work to divest from Chinese government-owned companies

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(The Center Square) — The Florida State Board of Administration Audit (SBA) Committee met the week of Aug. 12 to discuss the Sunshine State’s investment performance and some changes that will impact foreign investment from certain countries.

Chris Spencer, the SBA executive director, was tasked by Gov. Ron DeSantis to analyze the state budget upon his appointment. Spencer said during the committee meeting that they have seen a 9.3% increase year-over-year and credited the state’s recruitment and retention efforts, as well as a major focus on Florida’s IT overhauls.

During the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers passed House Bill 7071, which limits the investments the SBA can hold on behalf of the Florida Retirement System which invests in companies owned by the Chinese government.

(Sutthipong Kongtrakool/Getty)

The bill prohibits the SBA from investing further in these Chinese companies. Furthermore, the SBA must identify any current holdings and divest from these interests by Sept. 1, 2025.

In the bill’s summary, it states that preliminary data from November 2023 showed approximately $277.1 million worth of holdings in 211 Chinese companies.

Spencer’s two main focuses in his analysis were overseeing the implementation of the bill and updating the state board on its current status. He found that the number of Chinese companies was much higher than initially thought.

“We fully implemented that when the governor signed this bill into law in June, we identified initially 547 publicly traded entities in China that would fall under that criteria and we’ve initiated contact now with our fund managers to implement divestment from that,” Spencer said at the audit meeting on Monday

Florida lawmakers previously enacted HB5C in 2023, which expands the criteria for prohibited investments and “scrutinized companies” related to Iran. This includes companies with assets linked to Iran and involved in the financial, manufacturing, petrochemical, energy, mining and shipbuilding sectors.

Spencer said that as of June 2023, 13 companies had been added to a continued examination list related to the enactment of the legislation.

“The corporate governance team is going to continue to monitor those companies over the remainder of this year to determine what further action will be required as it relates to those companies,” Spencer said.

The Actuarial Assumptions Conference will be held in October and the SBA will make recommendations to the conference, which will include keeping the current assumed rate-of-return unchanged and increasing contributions to the Defined Benefit Plan.

Published August 21, 2024

How to protect yourself from internet scams

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In today’s digital age, internet scams have become increasingly sophisticated, targeting individuals across the globe. These scams can lead to financial loss, identity theft and emotional distress. However, by staying informed and taking proactive measures, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these schemes. Here’s how:

1. Be skeptical of unsolicited communications
One of the most common tactics used by scammers is to send unsolicited emails, messages or phone calls that appear to be from legitimate sources like banks, government agencies or well-known companies. These communications often ask for personal information, payment details or direct you to click on a link.

Action tip: Always verify the sender before responding. If you’re unsure, contact the organization directly using official channels rather than the contact information provided in the message.

Avoid accessing sensitive information or making purchases when using public Wi-Fi, like in a coffee shop. (SOPA Images/Getty)

2. Look out for phishing attempts
Phishing scams involve emails or websites that mimic legitimate entities to steal your data. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), these scams often prompt you to enter sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers, into a fake website that looks real.

Action tip: Check the URL carefully for any discrepancies. Legitimate websites will often have a secure “https” connection and a lock icon in the address bar. If something seems off, don’t enter any personal information.

3. Use strong, unique passwords
Weak or reused passwords can make it easier for scammers to access your accounts. Many scams involve brute-force attacks where hackers use automated tools to guess your passwords.

Action tip: According to Norton, an antivirus and internet security company, a good practice is to use a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. Include a mix of letters, numbers and special characters in your passwords to increase their strength.

4. Enable two-factor authentication
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring not only your password but also a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone.

Action tip: Enable 2FA on all accounts that offer it. Even if your password is compromised, 2FA can prevent unauthorized access.

5. Stay informed about common scams
Scammers frequently evolve their tactics, so it’s essential to stay informed about the latest types of scams. Common scams include fake job offers, tech support scams, online shopping fraud and romance scams.

Action tip: Regularly visit trusted sources like the FTC or the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency for updates on new scams and how to avoid them.

6. Be cautious with public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are often less secure, making it easier for scammers to intercept your data. According to the United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre, using these networks without precautions can expose you to “man-in-the-middle” attacks, where attackers can monitor and manipulate the information you send and receive.

Action tip: Avoid accessing sensitive accounts or making online purchases on public Wi-Fi. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection.

7. Monitor your accounts regularly
Regularly monitoring your bank statements, credit card accounts and credit reports can help you quickly spot any unauthorized transactions or new accounts opened in your name.

Action tip: Set up alerts with your bank and credit card providers to notify you of any unusual activity. If you notice something suspicious, report it immediately.

8. Educate yourself and others
One of the best defenses against internet scams is education. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid becoming a victim, and you can also help protect others by sharing your knowledge.

Action tip: Participate in cybersecurity awareness training and encourage your family and friends to do the same. Share information about common scams and how to avoid them.

While internet scams can be daunting, taking these proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk. Stay vigilant, protect your personal information and always be cautious when interacting online.

Published August 21, 2024

Fantasy football tips: building a winning team for the 2024 season

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Fantasy football is on the horizon, and enthusiasts everywhere are gearing up for their drafts. Building a winning fantasy football team requires a mix of preparation, strategy and a bit of luck. Here are some essential tips to help you dominate your league this season.

1. Do your research
Preparation is key. Before your draft, spend time researching player rankings, recent performances and offseason changes. Pay attention to:

  • Player stats: Review last season’s stats and offseason performances.
  • Team changes: Note any coaching changes, trades or major injuries that could impact player performance.
  • Schedule: Some players have more favorable matchups during the fantasy playoffs.
(spxChrome/Getty)

2. Know your league’s scoring system
Understanding your league’s scoring system is crucial for drafting the right players. Different leagues may reward points differently for yardage, touchdowns and receptions. For example, in a PPR (Points Per Reception) league, wide receivers and running backs who catch a lot of passes are more valuable.

3. Mock drafts are your friend
Participating in mock drafts can help you get a feel for where players are being picked and develop your draft strategy. Websites like ESPN and Yahoo offer free mock draft lobbies. Use these to practice different draft positions and scenarios.

4. Balance risk and reward
While it’s tempting to draft the highest-scoring players from the previous season, it’s also important to consider their risk factors. Injury-prone players or those with new team dynamics might not perform as expected. Mix reliable players with high-upside picks to balance your roster.

5. Wait on quarterbacks
Unless you can grab a top-tier quarterback like Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen, it’s often wise to wait until the middle rounds to draft your QB. There is typically good depth at the quarterback position, and you can find value picks later.

6. Focus on running backs and wide receivers early
Running backs and wide receivers tend to score the most points and have the most significant impact on your weekly matchups. Prioritize these positions in the early rounds to ensure you have a strong foundation for your team.

(Double_Vision/Getty)

7. Don’t ignore tight ends
While the tight end position can be tricky, having a top performer like Travis Kelce or Mark Andrews can give you a significant advantage. If you can’t get an elite tight end, look for value picks later in the draft.

8. Stay flexible and adaptable
Have a draft plan but be ready to adapt. If a player you didn’t expect to be available falls to you, consider taking them even if it wasn’t part of your initial strategy. Flexibility can be the key to capitalizing on draft-day surprises.

9. Monitor training camp and preseason news
Player injuries, position battles and coaching decisions can significantly impact player value. Stay updated on the latest news throughout training camp and the preseason to make informed decisions during your draft.

10. Handcuff your top running backs
If you draft a top-tier running back, consider also drafting their backup (handcuff) in the later rounds. This strategy can protect you against injuries and ensure you have a reliable option if your star player goes down.

11. Don’t neglect defense and kickers
While defense and kickers are typically drafted in the later rounds, they can still contribute to your weekly points total. Look for defenses with favorable early-season matchups and kickers on high-scoring teams.

12. Keep an eye on the waiver wire
Your work isn’t done after the draft. Stay active on the waiver wire throughout the season to pick up emerging talent and cover for injuries or underperforming players.

Building a winning fantasy football team takes preparation, strategy and adaptability. By doing your research, understanding your league’s scoring system, and staying flexible during the draft, you can set yourself up for a successful season. Good luck, and may your fantasy team bring you championship glory!

Published August 21, 2024

Understanding your credit score and how to improve it

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Your credit score is a crucial financial tool that impacts your ability to borrow money, secure favorable interest rates, and even rent an apartment. Understanding what affects your credit score and how to improve it can help you make better financial decisions and achieve your financial goals. Here’s what you need to know:

The Fair Isaac Corporation created the FICO score. (SOPA Images/Getty)

What is a credit score?
A credit score is a three-digit number that represents your creditworthiness, or how likely you are to repay borrowed money. Credit scores typically range from 300 to 850, with higher scores indicating better credit health. Lenders, landlords and even some employers use your credit score to assess your financial reliability.

There are several models for calculating credit scores, but the most common is the FICO score, created by the data analytics company officially known as the Fair Isaac Corporation. This score is calculated based on five key factors: payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and credit mix.

Factors that affect your credit score

  1. Payment history: Your payment history accounts for about 35% of your FICO score. This includes whether you pay your bills on time, as late payments can significantly lower your score. According to an article by MyFICO, the official consumer division of FICO, missed or delinquent payments remain on your credit report for up to seven years.
  2. Amounts owed: The amount of debt you owe relative to your credit limits, also known as your credit utilization ratio, makes up about 30% of your credit score. According to Experian, one of the three major credit bureaus, a high credit utilization ratio can indicate that you are overextended, which may negatively impact your score.
  3. Length of credit history: The length of time your accounts have been open contributes to 15% of your credit score. According to Equifax, another one of the three major credit bureaus, a longer credit history provides more data for lenders to assess your risk, often resulting in a higher score.
  4. New credit: Opening multiple new credit accounts in a short period can be seen as risky behavior and accounts for 10% of your credit score. TransUnion, the third major credit bureau, notes that each time you apply for credit, a hard inquiry is placed on your report, which can lower your score temporarily.
  5. Credit mix: Having a variety of credit accounts, such as credit cards, mortgages and auto loans, makes up 10% of your score. MyFICO points out that a healthy mix of credit types demonstrates that you can manage different types of credit responsibly.
Opening multiple new credit accounts in a short period can be seen as risky behavior and accounts for 10% of your credit score.
(Matt Cardy/Getty)

How to improve your credit score

  1. Pay your bills on time: Since payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score, consistently paying your bills on time is crucial. Consider setting up automatic payments or reminders to avoid missing due dates.
  2. Reduce your debt: Work on paying down your outstanding balances to lower your credit utilization ratio. Experian suggests aiming to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your total credit limit, as this can improve your score over time.
  3. Limit new credit applications: Each hard inquiry can lower your score slightly, so apply for new credit only when necessary. TransUnion advises that if you’re shopping for a loan, try to keep your applications within a short period, as multiple inquiries for the same type of loan within a short time frame are often counted as one inquiry.
  4. Keep old accounts open: The length of your credit history affects your score, so it’s often better to keep older accounts open, even if you’re not using them regularly. Closing old accounts can shorten your credit history and negatively impact your score.
  5. Check your credit report regularly: Errors on your credit report can drag down your score. Regularly reviewing your credit report allows you to spot and dispute any inaccuracies. Equifax reminds consumers that you’re entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion — once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com.

Understanding your credit score is essential for managing your financial health. By knowing what factors influence your score and taking steps to improve it, you can achieve better credit and access more favorable financial opportunities.

Published August 21, 2024

The Laker Readers’ Choice 2024 | Professional Services

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The Laker needs your help highlighting the best professional service-related companies in the area, including those in categories of Best Attorney, Best Bank, Best Event Planner etc.

Write the companies in the blanks provided that you believe are deserving of The Laker’s 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards. We recommend including a neighborhood or road for companies that have multiple locations.

The Laker Readers’ Choice 2024 | Shopping

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The Laker needs your help highlighting the best shopping-related companies in the area, including those in categories of Best Gift Shop, Best Antiques etc.

Write the companies in the blanks provided that you believe are deserving of The Laker’s 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards. We recommend including a neighborhood or road for companies that have multiple locations.

The Laker Readers’ Choice 2024 | Home

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The Laker needs your help highlighting the best home-related companies in the area, including those in categories of Best Flooring Site, Best General Contractor, Best Heating & Cooling etc.

Write the companies in the blanks provided that you believe are deserving of The Laker’s 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards. We recommend including a neighborhood or road for companies that have multiple locations.

The Laker Readers’ Choice 2024 | Health

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The Laker needs your help highlighting the best health-related companies in the area, including those in categories of Best Chiropractor, Best Cosmetic Surgeon, Best Women’s Health Care etc.

Write the companies in the blanks provided that you believe are deserving of The Laker’s 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards. We recommend including a neighborhood or road for companies that have multiple locations.

The Laker Readers’ Choice 2024 | Food

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The Laker needs your help highlighting the best food-related companies in the area, including those in categories of Best Asian Food, Best Bakery, Best Burger Joint etc.

Write the companies in the blanks provided that you believe are deserving of The Laker’s 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards. We recommend including a neighborhood or road for companies that have multiple locations.