Have you ever wondered where “the experts” come from and who gives them their credentials?

Who made J. D. Powers and Associates the last word on quality? In fact, who is J.D. Powers and who are his/her associates? What do they do to select the recipient of “the award?”

Something else that I’ve wondered about is what is so great about having a Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval?

I thought these people wrote a magazine — what do they know about patio furniture or anything else?

Do they have a laboratory full of scientists that review everything they put their seal on and if so, to what do they compare the things they review? Is there a standard for everything somewhere?

Another thing is the USDA inspected stamp on certain foods. If these foods are inspected, why are we having so many contaminated foods in our grocery stores and restaurants lately? What do they inspect for — fat content?

I guess the above shows that I have entirely too much time on my hands but what about Underwriters Laboratory, Motor Trend Magazine and Consumer Reports — are they all really qualified to tell the American public what is safe, which cars to buy and what products are the best?

I’m sure they are but it makes you think, doesn’t it?

I think I’ll start the R.F. Persons and Associates award for something or start publishing a magazine and give a seal of approval for something.

I wonder if there is any money in that sort of venture — duh?