BarlowFriendz
interesting reading. more minds to wander through.
i hope he lasts longer than gibson.
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
Tuesday, December 30, 2003
The Internet hasn't reeled in everyone yet | csmonitor.com
The Internet hasn't reeled in everyone yet | csmonitor.com: "That raises the question of whether the much-talked-about 'digital divide' between those online and those not is closing. The Pew findings show that the poor and less-educated are online less than the affluent. Among Americans with less than a high school education, Internet usage dropped from 31 percent in January 2002 to 26 percent in August 2003, the report says.
Of those who don't use the Internet, at least one third, or about 10 percent of all adult Americans, would be online if they could, says Donna Hoffman, an Internet researcher at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn.
'There would be more growth if only there were programs or opportunities for people who can't afford it,' she says. 'The Internet is clearly indispensible now, and when you have a technology that's indispensible, there's no question there's a role for the government in taking a look at what happens when people don't have that access ... and what are the implications of that.'
Some people who can afford the technology aren't sure the benefits of being online outweigh the perceived drawbacks."
Well there ya go. I wonder if anyone has some ideas?
Bueller, Bueller?
Of those who don't use the Internet, at least one third, or about 10 percent of all adult Americans, would be online if they could, says Donna Hoffman, an Internet researcher at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn.
'There would be more growth if only there were programs or opportunities for people who can't afford it,' she says. 'The Internet is clearly indispensible now, and when you have a technology that's indispensible, there's no question there's a role for the government in taking a look at what happens when people don't have that access ... and what are the implications of that.'
Some people who can afford the technology aren't sure the benefits of being online outweigh the perceived drawbacks."
Well there ya go. I wonder if anyone has some ideas?
Bueller, Bueller?
IHT: Brazil gives the U.S. a nuclear headache
IHT: Brazil gives the U.S. a nuclear headache: "WASHINGTON Just when the Bush administration thought it had turned a corner in the global campaign against the spread of weapons of mass destruction - with Libya's Muammar el-Qaddafi, of all people - we learn that Brazil has decided to begin enriching uranium in 2004 and now refuses to allow the kind of inspections being urged on Libya, Iran and others.
Brazil? Since when is the second-largest democracy in the Western hemisphere an aspiring nuclear proliferator? Should Brazil be on the shortlist for an updated axis of evil?"
I guess this would make Brazil the fulcrum of the new axis between good and evil?
Brazil? Since when is the second-largest democracy in the Western hemisphere an aspiring nuclear proliferator? Should Brazil be on the shortlist for an updated axis of evil?"
I guess this would make Brazil the fulcrum of the new axis between good and evil?
Monday, December 29, 2003
local6.com - News - Officials: World's Largest Snake Caught
local6.com - News - Officials: World's Largest Snake Caught: "JAKARTA, Indonesia -- Indonesian villagers claim to have captured a python that is almost 49.21 feet long and weighs nearly 992.07 pounds, an official said Monday.
If confirmed, it would be the largest snake ever kept in captivity.
Hundreds of people have flocked to see the snake at a primitive zoo in Curugsewu village on the country's main island of Java, Republika reported. It splashed two large pictures of the reptile across its back page."
Ice Cube, Owen Wilson, and Jon Voight were strangely unavailable for comment.
If confirmed, it would be the largest snake ever kept in captivity.
Hundreds of people have flocked to see the snake at a primitive zoo in Curugsewu village on the country's main island of Java, Republika reported. It splashed two large pictures of the reptile across its back page."
Ice Cube, Owen Wilson, and Jon Voight were strangely unavailable for comment.
Arutz Sheva - Israel National News
Arutz Sheva - Israel National News: "Israel has joined what has increasingly become a worldwide crusade to break free of the Microsoft Corporation and their perceived monopolistic constraints.
The Ministry of Finance announced Sunday it will begin distributing Open Office, which is a package of basic software programs similar to Microsoft Office, for free starting this coming week. The ministry plans to distribute thousands of Open Office programs on CD-ROM at public computer centers and eventually community centers across the country throughout the coming year."
This is outstanding. Good work, out there in bomb-land.
I think we are going to stick with OpenOffice fully on Moore4Yates now. With these guys and Austin taking the plunge, it's only a matter of time till another good idea filters from the left to the right.
The Ministry of Finance announced Sunday it will begin distributing Open Office, which is a package of basic software programs similar to Microsoft Office, for free starting this coming week. The ministry plans to distribute thousands of Open Office programs on CD-ROM at public computer centers and eventually community centers across the country throughout the coming year."
This is outstanding. Good work, out there in bomb-land.
I think we are going to stick with OpenOffice fully on Moore4Yates now. With these guys and Austin taking the plunge, it's only a matter of time till another good idea filters from the left to the right.
Forum: The fish that threatened national security
Forum: The fish that threatened national security: "Like many college students who flew home for the holidays, I had to endure the latest airport safeguards in the name of homeland security. A lot of us have stories to tell, but only mine is a fish tale, a contemporary melodrama of the absurd to prepare you for future travels.
My boyfriend Trey and I arrived by taxi at the US Airways terminal of La Guardia airport. We had four bags apiece, and one more precious piece of cargo -- MJ, my pet fish. MJ is a gorgeous fighting Betta fish, his palate a perfect pastel rainbow. He had become quite a solace to me in New York, a city that can make you feel so small and alone."
I fly out of there all the time, and after taking over 50 flights this last year, I can assure you that this type of TSA person exists. They are still rare, but they're there.
My boyfriend Trey and I arrived by taxi at the US Airways terminal of La Guardia airport. We had four bags apiece, and one more precious piece of cargo -- MJ, my pet fish. MJ is a gorgeous fighting Betta fish, his palate a perfect pastel rainbow. He had become quite a solace to me in New York, a city that can make you feel so small and alone."
I fly out of there all the time, and after taking over 50 flights this last year, I can assure you that this type of TSA person exists. They are still rare, but they're there.
Wikipedia get the Cash
Wikipedia Request for Donations: "As you have all seen the past few days, we have been having technical difficulties. The essential problem is that we do not currently have enough hardware to cope with routine failures of any kind. When any one of our machines goes down, we experience cascading problems due in part to the excess load on the entire system.
The solution to this problem is to purchase now sufficient hardware to give us enough excess capacity so that we can be reliable. I estimate that $20,000 in hardware would get us to a point where we have reserves to handle the failure of any one machine. Additionally, we would be well-poised to continue our track record of astounding growth."
The great thing is that this letter was posted yesterday. As of now, that links shows donations totalling $23,382.17. The Net rocks.
The solution to this problem is to purchase now sufficient hardware to give us enough excess capacity so that we can be reliable. I estimate that $20,000 in hardware would get us to a point where we have reserves to handle the failure of any one machine. Additionally, we would be well-poised to continue our track record of astounding growth."
The great thing is that this letter was posted yesterday. As of now, that links shows donations totalling $23,382.17. The Net rocks.
Dean's secure in his view of Saddam
Dean's secure in his view of Saddam: "In his interview with the Monitor, Howard Dean repeated his contention that Saddam Hussein's recent capture had made America no safer.
'My opponents spent the week criticizing me for that, which I think was to their detriment' since the federal government had just increased the terror alert level to orange, indicating an elevated risk of an attack.
But he said two other recent events had benefited national security: the capture of a ship loaded with drugs in the Persian Gulf - 'which is almost certainly how al-Qaida is partly financing their operations,' Dean said - and Libya's decision to declare its illegal weapons programs and get rid of them.
Dean said there was no evidence to suggest the Bush administration's use of force against Iraq had anything to do with Libya's move."
More on Dean. I'm really curious to see polls of frequent Fox News viewers and their opinions on Dean. The frequency of attacks coming from that particular source are so consistent and generally misleading they could only find a home on, well, Faux News.
'My opponents spent the week criticizing me for that, which I think was to their detriment' since the federal government had just increased the terror alert level to orange, indicating an elevated risk of an attack.
But he said two other recent events had benefited national security: the capture of a ship loaded with drugs in the Persian Gulf - 'which is almost certainly how al-Qaida is partly financing their operations,' Dean said - and Libya's decision to declare its illegal weapons programs and get rid of them.
Dean said there was no evidence to suggest the Bush administration's use of force against Iraq had anything to do with Libya's move."
More on Dean. I'm really curious to see polls of frequent Fox News viewers and their opinions on Dean. The frequency of attacks coming from that particular source are so consistent and generally misleading they could only find a home on, well, Faux News.
The 10 Dumbest Quotes of 2003 - Funny Quotes
The 10 Dumbest Quotes of 2003 - Funny Quotes
Good stuff. But make sure you have a pop-up blocker (i use the google toolbar) because About.com sucks for pop-ups.
Good stuff. But make sure you have a pop-up blocker (i use the google toolbar) because About.com sucks for pop-ups.
Saddam Info Leaks
Reuters | Latest Financial News / Full News Coverage: "DUBAI (Reuters) - Saddam Hussein has given his U.S. captors information on hidden weapons and as much as $40 billion (22.5 billion pounds) he may have seized while he was Iraq's president, an Iraqi official has been quoted as saying.
'Saddam has confessed the names of people he told to keep the money and he gave names of those who have information on equipment and weapons warehouses,' Iyad Allawi, a member of the U.S.-appointed Iraqi Governing Council, told the London-based Asharq al-Awsat daily.
'The Governing Council is searching for $40 billion worth of funds seized by Saddam when he was in power and which has been deposited in Switzerland, Japan, Germany and other countries under the names of fictitious companies,' Allawi said."
Treat as suspect. If there's a major WMD find in the next few days, then we'll know this is good info.
'Saddam has confessed the names of people he told to keep the money and he gave names of those who have information on equipment and weapons warehouses,' Iyad Allawi, a member of the U.S.-appointed Iraqi Governing Council, told the London-based Asharq al-Awsat daily.
'The Governing Council is searching for $40 billion worth of funds seized by Saddam when he was in power and which has been deposited in Switzerland, Japan, Germany and other countries under the names of fictitious companies,' Allawi said."
Treat as suspect. If there's a major WMD find in the next few days, then we'll know this is good info.
Tuesday, December 23, 2003
Yahoo! News - Court Upholds Sentence for Bush Threat
Yahoo! News - Court Upholds Sentence for Bush Threat: "ST. LOUIS - An appeals court has upheld the three-year prison sentence of a man who suggested that President Bush (news - web sites) might be set ablaze during the president's March 2001 trip to Sioux Falls, S.D."
Time to tone down the rhetoric, it would seem. Especially in bars.
Humphreys said he got into a barroom discussion with a truck driver a day before Bush's visit. A bartender who overheard the conversation told police that Humphreys talked about a "burning Bush" and the possibility of someone setting Bush ablaze.
Time to tone down the rhetoric, it would seem. Especially in bars.
Humphreys said he got into a barroom discussion with a truck driver a day before Bush's visit. A bartender who overheard the conversation told police that Humphreys talked about a "burning Bush" and the possibility of someone setting Bush ablaze.
The Agonist: Elite Israeli Troops Refuse To Serve in the Territories
The Agonist: Elite Israeli Troops Refuse To Serve in the Territories: "Thirteen reservists from Israel's elite military commando unit stated Sunday in a letter to the prime minister that they would no longer serve in the occupied territories, joining other influential security officials who have recently criticized Israeli military tactics and treatment of the Palestinians. "
I'll give the Agonist the nod, so just click through there. This is how wars are stopped.
I'll give the Agonist the nod, so just click through there. This is how wars are stopped.
MySQL Quashes Defects in Database Release
MySQL Quashes Defects in Database Release: "MySQL AB on Monday released Version 4.0.17 of its MySQL open-source database software. The update features a number of cleaned up code defects that were recently sniffed out by an independent inspection company.
Reasoning performed its independent analysis using defect density as a prime quality indicator. Defined as the number of defects found per thousand lines of code, MySQL's defect density registered as 0.09 defects per thousand lines of source code. Through its analysis, Reasoning concluded that the commercial average defect density—covering 200 recent projects and totaling 35 million lines of commercial code—came to 0.57 defects per thousand lines of code."
Empirical evidence of the Open Free Source Software model contributing to high quality code.
Reasoning performed its independent analysis using defect density as a prime quality indicator. Defined as the number of defects found per thousand lines of code, MySQL's defect density registered as 0.09 defects per thousand lines of source code. Through its analysis, Reasoning concluded that the commercial average defect density—covering 200 recent projects and totaling 35 million lines of commercial code—came to 0.57 defects per thousand lines of code."
Empirical evidence of the Open Free Source Software model contributing to high quality code.
Reuters | Latest Financial News / Full News Coverage
Reuters | Latest Financial News / Full News Coverage: "BANGALORE (Reuters) - India's film makers are offering Internet movie downloads on web site Kazaa in a move that could lower costs and boost revenues in Bollywood, the world's most prolific film production centre.
Some 35 producers will be able to sell movies using Kazaa, a file-sharing program owned by Australia's Sharman Networks, according to company statement.
'In a distribution deal struck between Sharman's partner Altnet... and IndiaFM.com, one of the most popular Bollywood entertainment sites, Kazaa's estimated 60 million global users will gain access to previously unavailable content,' the statement said."
And while Hollywood continues to advocate the suing and arrest of downloaders, Bollywood will grab massive amounts of converts by treating them like the mostly honest people they are.
Some 35 producers will be able to sell movies using Kazaa, a file-sharing program owned by Australia's Sharman Networks, according to company statement.
'In a distribution deal struck between Sharman's partner Altnet... and IndiaFM.com, one of the most popular Bollywood entertainment sites, Kazaa's estimated 60 million global users will gain access to previously unavailable content,' the statement said."
And while Hollywood continues to advocate the suing and arrest of downloaders, Bollywood will grab massive amounts of converts by treating them like the mostly honest people they are.
CNN.com - Judge orders Limbaugh's medical records released - Dec. 23, 2003
CNN.com - Judge orders Limbaugh's medical records released - Dec. 23, 2003: "During a Monday hearing on access to Limbaugh's medical records, attorney Roy Black said Limbaugh paid 'extreme amounts of money' to Wilma Cline, his former housekeeper, and her husband, first for pills and then for extortion. Black alleged that the Clines had threatened to go public with information about Limbaugh's drug use unless they received $4 million.
Black said Limbaugh wanted to contact the FBI, but was told by an unidentified friend that if he went to the authorities, they would target him, and his political enemies would use the information against him.
'That's exactly what happened,' said Black, who also alleged that Cline's husband was a convicted drug trafficker."
Ahh, the spider web of deceit catches yet another victim. Limbaugh should simply be punished by his own rules, which, if he's a felony drug offender, I believe includes death by roo-roo.
Black said Limbaugh wanted to contact the FBI, but was told by an unidentified friend that if he went to the authorities, they would target him, and his political enemies would use the information against him.
'That's exactly what happened,' said Black, who also alleged that Cline's husband was a convicted drug trafficker."
Ahh, the spider web of deceit catches yet another victim. Limbaugh should simply be punished by his own rules, which, if he's a felony drug offender, I believe includes death by roo-roo.
Monday, December 22, 2003
More fun with the "Papyrus" Flash App
Bob Sawyer: "Earliest known evidence of a reality series found in medieval vault in eastern Great Britain.
Evidence of the earliest known reality series, 'Qveere Eye for thye Medieval Man' was found recently in a vault in eastern Great Britain. Officials date the series of tapestry panels back to around 1066, the year of the Battle of Hastings."
I need to find this thing and play with it.
Evidence of the earliest known reality series, 'Qveere Eye for thye Medieval Man' was found recently in a vault in eastern Great Britain. Officials date the series of tapestry panels back to around 1066, the year of the Battle of Hastings."
I need to find this thing and play with it.
We got him: Kurds say they caught Saddam - www.smh.com.au
We got him: Kurds say they caught Saddam - www.smh.com.au: "American forces took Saddam into custody around 8.30pm local time, but sat on the news until 3pm the next day.
However, in the early hours of Sunday, a Kurdish language wire service reported explicitly: 'Saddam Hussein was captured by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan. A special intelligence unit led by Qusrat Rasul Ali, a high-ranking member of the PUK, found Saddam Hussein in the city of Tikrit, his birthplace.
'Qusrat's team was accompanied by a group of US soldiers. Further details of the capture will emerge during the day; but the global Kurdish party is about to begin!'"
Well, wait on this for a bit, considering the amazing quality of the U.S. media reporting on such stuff (Lynch, for example), it's not surprising that this isn't on the news yet.
However, in the early hours of Sunday, a Kurdish language wire service reported explicitly: 'Saddam Hussein was captured by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan. A special intelligence unit led by Qusrat Rasul Ali, a high-ranking member of the PUK, found Saddam Hussein in the city of Tikrit, his birthplace.
'Qusrat's team was accompanied by a group of US soldiers. Further details of the capture will emerge during the day; but the global Kurdish party is about to begin!'"
Well, wait on this for a bit, considering the amazing quality of the U.S. media reporting on such stuff (Lynch, for example), it's not surprising that this isn't on the news yet.
Boston.com / News / Boston Globe / Opinion / Op-ed / Prejudging the 9/11 report
Boston.com / News / Boston Globe / Opinion / Op-ed / Prejudging the 9/11 report: "THE PROBLEM is not Tom Kean's assertion that the terrorist attack on the United States two years ago was preventable, it is President Bush's repeated assurance that it was not. The vaunted Bush attack machine stirred briefly last week, but paused before ginning up the conservative establishment for an assault on the moderate Republican chairman of the commission investigating Sept. 11, 2001."
This is going to probably hurt a bit when it comes out.
This is going to probably hurt a bit when it comes out.
Threat Level Raised
Threat Level Raised: " Washington, DC - SECRETARY RIDGE: 'Good afternoon. Today, the United States Government raised the national threat level from an Elevated to High risk of terrorist attack -- or as more commonly known, from a Yellow Code to an Orange Code.
We know from experience that the increased security that is implemented when we raise the threat level, along with increased vigilance, can help disrupt or deter terrorist attacks. "
Sweet, and I've only got 4 more plane flights before the holidays are over.
We know from experience that the increased security that is implemented when we raise the threat level, along with increased vigilance, can help disrupt or deter terrorist attacks. "
Sweet, and I've only got 4 more plane flights before the holidays are over.
Saturday, December 20, 2003
ABCNEWS.com : NASA Releases Images From New Telescope
ABCNEWS.com : NASA Releases Images From New Telescope: "Dec. 18— NASA unveiled the first views Thursday from its space infrared telescope, a super-cooled orbiting observatory that can look through obscuring dust to capture images never before seen. "
It took a few tries, but I finally found a story with the link to the actual images. Click here for the images.
Some great stuff that's going to keep coming even after the Hubble goes down. Also, be ready for Mars stuff on Christmas. We have a countdown for the Beagle II. And 'Spirit' should be following soon after.
It took a few tries, but I finally found a story with the link to the actual images. Click here for the images.
Some great stuff that's going to keep coming even after the Hubble goes down. Also, be ready for Mars stuff on Christmas. We have a countdown for the Beagle II. And 'Spirit' should be following soon after.
Thursday, December 18, 2003
Best 1%er Biker and Bad Cop News, by the Outsider: bikernews,Motorcycle,Hells,Bad Cop,Cop,Biker,News,Police,Nude,Daytona,myrtle,Sturgis,laconia,thunder,val
Best 1%er Biker and Bad Cop News, by the Outsider: bikernews,Motorcycle,Hells,Bad Cop,Cop,Biker,News,Police,Nude,Daytona,myrtle,Sturgis,laconia,thunder,valley,outlaw,outsider
There it is. Because you know how many geek bikers there are.
There it is. Because you know how many geek bikers there are.
Texas College Humor presented by THE VOORN PROJECT
Texas College Humor presented by THE VOORN PROJECT
Texas College Rundown. I went to Trinity University, BTW.
Texas College Rundown. I went to Trinity University, BTW.
New Scientist :: The Real 100th Anniversary Flight
New Scientist: "The first piloted and rocket-powered craft to have been developed by a private company made its maiden flight on Wednesday, over the Mojave desert in California.
The craft, called Space Ship One (SS1), also become the first private craft to break the sound barrier, reaching a top speed of 930 mph (1490 km/h). The flight, exactly 100 years after the Wright brothers made their historic flight, marks a big step to winning the $10 million X Prize for private spaceflight."
The Wright Brothers failed re-enactment notwithstanding, read this story (and check the pic) to see how far private aviators have come in 100 years.
The craft, called Space Ship One (SS1), also become the first private craft to break the sound barrier, reaching a top speed of 930 mph (1490 km/h). The flight, exactly 100 years after the Wright brothers made their historic flight, marks a big step to winning the $10 million X Prize for private spaceflight."
The Wright Brothers failed re-enactment notwithstanding, read this story (and check the pic) to see how far private aviators have come in 100 years.
Wednesday, December 17, 2003
Weird! Fox's favorite 'progressive Democrat' just seems to beat up on Dems
Weird! Fox's favorite 'progressive Democrat' just seems to beat up on Dems: "TAMMY, TELL ME UNTRUE: Weird, isn’t it? Tammy Bruce said, two times each, that she was “progressive”—and a Big Democrat! She stressed that she was openly gay, and a Big Feminist to boot (see THE DAILY HOWLER, 12/16/03). But just as soon as she opened her mouth, she began praising Bush—and trashing Dems. Bill O’Reilly even had to fix her fake facts. No wonder our analysts were so kerflubbled as they watched this “progressive Democrat” in action."
look at Faux News' "experts". This seems to be the literal use of a strawman (strawchick, in this case) to further a political agenda.
'Gawrsh Billy O'Really, I'm a democrat and I think everything you say about them is spot on'.
look at Faux News' "experts". This seems to be the literal use of a strawman (strawchick, in this case) to further a political agenda.
'Gawrsh Billy O'Really, I'm a democrat and I think everything you say about them is spot on'.
PNC Bank - The Annual 12 Days of Christmas Index
PNC Bank - The Annual: "PITTSBURGH, Dec. 8, 2003 � While stiff import competition is driving deeper discounts on merchandise sold in the United States, skilled labor cost is on the rise, resulting in a 16 percent increase in this year�s PNC Advisors Christmas Price Index � the biggest jump the Index has seen in its 19-year history. "
Congressmen mislead on Iraq
Local News: "U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson said Monday the Bush administration last year told him and other senators that Iraq not only had weapons of mass destruction, but they had the means to deliver them to East Coast cities.
Nelson, D-Tallahassee, said about 75 senators got that news during a classified briefing before last October's congressional vote authorizing the use of force to remove Saddam Hussein from power. Nelson voted in favor of using military force.
Nelson said he couldn't reveal who in the administration gave the briefing."
Hey, but at leat we got him. Sure, we've increased the number of terrorists in the world, divided our allies, and spent over $200,000,000,000, but We've Got Him, and his country.
Don't you feel secure now?
Nelson, D-Tallahassee, said about 75 senators got that news during a classified briefing before last October's congressional vote authorizing the use of force to remove Saddam Hussein from power. Nelson voted in favor of using military force.
Nelson said he couldn't reveal who in the administration gave the briefing."
Hey, but at leat we got him. Sure, we've increased the number of terrorists in the world, divided our allies, and spent over $200,000,000,000, but We've Got Him, and his country.
Don't you feel secure now?
Salon.com Technology | Raking muck in "The Sims Online"
Salon.com Technology | Raking muck in "The Sims Online": "According to Ludlow, E.A.'s move was 'clearly censorship,' and other scholars of MMORPGS -- massively multiplayer online role playing games, a category that describes the online worlds of 'The Sims,' 'Everquest,' 'Ultima Online,' and new entrants 'There' and 'Second Life' -- who are familiar with Ludlow's site agree with his assessment. They say the situation underscores what is becoming increasingly apparent in the virtual world: There's a fundamental divergence between the interests of a community (typically high-minded goals like freedom of speech and assembly) and the interests of the corporations that run those communities (typically not very high-minded but otherwise understandable goals like making money and avoiding public association with words like 'prostitution')."
Understanding dystopia through simulation. I love it.
Obvious point: You don't want corporations running your life. In any way.
Understanding dystopia through simulation. I love it.
Obvious point: You don't want corporations running your life. In any way.
CNN.com - Bush honors anniversary of first flight - Dec. 17, 2003
CNN.com - Bush honors anniversary of first flight - Dec. 17, 2003: "KILL DEVIL HILLS, North Carolina (CNN) -- The Wright brothers would have sympathized.
One hundred years after the brothers' first flight, a meticulous reproduction of the 1903 Wright Flyer made a valiant attempt to take to the air on Wednesday.
Much like many of the brothers' early efforts, the plane could not get airborne. It struggled down a narrow track and unceremoniously came to a halt in a mud puddle. "
I saw a special on this on Discovery last night. Not too surprising that it didn't work, the Wright Brothers tried a number of times before things worked right.
One hundred years after the brothers' first flight, a meticulous reproduction of the 1903 Wright Flyer made a valiant attempt to take to the air on Wednesday.
Much like many of the brothers' early efforts, the plane could not get airborne. It struggled down a narrow track and unceremoniously came to a halt in a mud puddle. "
I saw a special on this on Discovery last night. Not too surprising that it didn't work, the Wright Brothers tried a number of times before things worked right.
After about thirty-five feet the Flyer lifted off the ground. But after just 3 1/2 seconds, it smashed back to earth. It took two days to repair the damages. But on December 17, 1903, the Wrights were ready to try again.With more details under the link.
Michael Moore.com
Michael Moore.com: "Thank God Saddam is finally back in American hands! He must have really missed us. Man, he sure looked bad! But, at least he got a free dental exam today. That's something most Americans can't get.
America used to like Saddam. We LOVED Saddam. We funded him. We armed him. We helped him gas Iranian troops.
But then he screwed up. He invaded the dictatorship of Kuwait and, in doing so, did the worst thing imaginable -- he threatened an even BETTER friend of ours: the dictatorship of Saudi Arabia, and its vast oil reserves. The Bushes and the Saudi royal family were and are close business partners, and Saddam, back in 1990, committed a royal blunder by getting a little too close to their wealthy holdings. Things went downhill for Saddam from there."
Linkalicious post after the ranting.
America used to like Saddam. We LOVED Saddam. We funded him. We armed him. We helped him gas Iranian troops.
But then he screwed up. He invaded the dictatorship of Kuwait and, in doing so, did the worst thing imaginable -- he threatened an even BETTER friend of ours: the dictatorship of Saudi Arabia, and its vast oil reserves. The Bushes and the Saudi royal family were and are close business partners, and Saddam, back in 1990, committed a royal blunder by getting a little too close to their wealthy holdings. Things went downhill for Saddam from there."
Linkalicious post after the ranting.
U.S. rejects Israeli protests - The Washington Times: World
U.S. rejects Israeli protests - The Washington Times: World: "The Bush administration yesterday brushed aside Israeli objections to planned U.S. meetings with the architects of the 'Geneva initiative,' an alternative Israeli-Palestinian peace plan launched in Switzerland this week.
'I am the American secretary of state. I have an obligation ... to listen to individuals who have interesting ideas,' said Secretary of State Colin L. PowelI yesterday.
'[This] in no way undercuts our strong support for the state of Israel,' Mr. Powell said. "
Seems to be moving forward. The plan looks like a pretty solid compromise, IMHO. I haven't seen any sunstantive criticism of it from Israel yet (although I'm sure that's my bad), so I'm surious to hear why they don't want us talking to anyone about a peace accord.
'I am the American secretary of state. I have an obligation ... to listen to individuals who have interesting ideas,' said Secretary of State Colin L. PowelI yesterday.
'[This] in no way undercuts our strong support for the state of Israel,' Mr. Powell said. "
Seems to be moving forward. The plan looks like a pretty solid compromise, IMHO. I haven't seen any sunstantive criticism of it from Israel yet (although I'm sure that's my bad), so I'm surious to hear why they don't want us talking to anyone about a peace accord.
About.com : http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr/home_video/brief_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2047010
About.com : http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr/home_video/brief_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2047010
Hmm, strange linking. Anyway.
Hmm, strange linking. Anyway.
MARSEILLES, France -- Blockbuster Inc. president and chief operating officer Nigel Travis on Thursday called for an end to regional coding on DVDs, saying they merely create more opportunities for piracy. "I believe, in addition to the elimination of two-tier pricing, the studios should also make another significant strike against piracy with the elimination of regional coding," he said. "The extra time on windows created by regional coding is an opportunity that pirates exploit." Travis, the keynote speaker at the annual two-day Perspectives in European Video conference taking place here, cited "Finding Nemo," which was released on video and DVD in the United States on Nov. 4 but will not be available in the United Kingdom until March 18.Now we're thinking. Also, let's make it NOT a felony to rip a DVD so I can watch minie on my phone, like I wanna.
Traffic Tracking
3.0 nedstat installed. Just curious if this thing is picking up any traffic. It's my log, but I've done a wee bit of promotion, although I'm sure a bunch of people looking for a certain type of doll wander by here.
Howdy folks.
Howdy folks.
Tuesday, December 16, 2003
Yahoo! News - BitTorrent and RSS Create Disruptive Revolution
Yahoo! News - BitTorrent and RSS Create Disruptive Revolution: "Disruptive technologies are born for all sorts of reasons�good ideas, market pressure, economic opportunity, and sometimes just plain luck. Many of today's disruptive leaders only emerged when combined with other seemingly unrelated inventions. WiFi and broadband (DSL and cable but not satellite) have prospered in a mutually symbiotic fashion. So too have weblogs and RSS. "
Massive tech article coming soon...if I finish it.
Massive tech article coming soon...if I finish it.
Why I Gave (washingtonpost.com)
Why I Gave (washingtonpost.com): "I and a number of other wealthy Americans are contributing millions of dollars to grass-roots organizations engaged in the 2004 presidential election. We are deeply concerned with the direction in which the Bush administration is taking the United States and the world."
At the VERY least, the campaign finance reform will force more 'shadow players' to come out in the light. I've read a bit about it, and am happy that the U.S. Supreme court said that democracy trumps the voice that money can buy, but we've still got a ways to go.
At the VERY least, the campaign finance reform will force more 'shadow players' to come out in the light. I've read a bit about it, and am happy that the U.S. Supreme court said that democracy trumps the voice that money can buy, but we've still got a ways to go.
Reuters | Breaking News from Around the Globe
Reuters | Breaking News from Around the Globe: "RAMALLAH, West Bank (Reuters) - Palestinian public support for suicide bomb attacks in Israel has dropped to its lowest level in three years of Middle East conflict, according to a poll released on Tuesday."
Interesting results, not much change, but popular sentiment there is right on the knife's edge.
Interesting results, not much change, but popular sentiment there is right on the knife's edge.
Exploring Dystopia: Main
Exploring Dystopia: Main
Very Interesting. At the very least, it will define an important word for everyone.
Very Interesting. At the very least, it will define an important word for everyone.
Monday, December 15, 2003
Thursday, December 11, 2003
Reason :: Libertarian argument for Dean
Reason: "I think I must have been ill that day. At some point, no one can say precisely when, libertarians apparently swore a feudal oath of fealty to the Republican Party. In response to an American Prospect article on libertarian disenchantment with the Bush administration, Reason's own former editor in chief Virginia Postrel explained that 'real Dean voters don't like Jeff Flake. (I do.)' "
Could be a nice swing voting block. Although it did remind me that preferential voting is the only way we are ever going to break out of a 2 party system, which always makes me sad.
Could be a nice swing voting block. Although it did remind me that preferential voting is the only way we are ever going to break out of a 2 party system, which always makes me sad.
SignOnSanDiego.com > News > Science/Health -- Scientists freeze pulse of light, for an instant
SignOnSanDiego.com > News > Science/Health -- Scientists freeze pulse of light, for an instant: "Physicists say they have brought light to a complete halt for a fraction of a second and then sent it on its way, an achievement that could someday help scientists develop powerful new computers.
The research differs from work published in 2001 that was hailed at the time as having brought light to standstill.
In that work, light pulses were technically 'stored' briefly when individual particles of light, or photons, were taken up by atoms in a gas."
Hmm, more reading necessary. /. has good coverage.
The research differs from work published in 2001 that was hailed at the time as having brought light to standstill.
In that work, light pulses were technically 'stored' briefly when individual particles of light, or photons, were taken up by atoms in a gas."
Hmm, more reading necessary. /. has good coverage.
CBS News | Rock Shook Communism's Foundation | November 10, 2003 10:01:32
CBS News | Rock Shook Communism's Foundation | November 10, 2003 10:01:32: "(CBS/AP) Rock music played lead in giving Hungarian baby boomers the resolve to bring down their communist state, says one of those reformers who today is a government official.
Andras Simonyi, Hungary's ambassador to the United States, spent an hour Saturday night discussing the impact of Western songs on Eastern European politics before an invitation-only audience of 250 at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame."
The Power of Rock trumps political ideology any day.
Andras Simonyi, Hungary's ambassador to the United States, spent an hour Saturday night discussing the impact of Western songs on Eastern European politics before an invitation-only audience of 250 at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame."
The Power of Rock trumps political ideology any day.
Tuesday, December 09, 2003
Mercury News | 12/09/2003 | Governor won't probe allegations after all
Mercury News | 12/09/2003 | Governor won't probe allegations after all: "SACRAMENTO - Just weeks after vowing to investigate allegations of sexual harassment against him, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has changed his mind, saying it's ``time to move on.''
More than a dozen allegations of harassment and groping surfaced against the movie-star-turned-politician in the last days of the recall campaign, prompting Schwarzenegger to acknowledge that he had sometimes ``behaved badly'' on ``rowdy movie sets.'' He apologized to anyone he may have offended, a mea culpa his communications director reiterated Monday.
``The governor, after consulting with legal counsel and advisers, has determined that an investigation would be rather pointless given the political nature that this has taken on,'' said Rob Stutzman, Schwarzenegger's communications director."
Does this include all future investigations and accusations also?
Hey, at least he's got that 'tell the voters one thing, do another' political dance down. Who said this guy isn't qualified?
More than a dozen allegations of harassment and groping surfaced against the movie-star-turned-politician in the last days of the recall campaign, prompting Schwarzenegger to acknowledge that he had sometimes ``behaved badly'' on ``rowdy movie sets.'' He apologized to anyone he may have offended, a mea culpa his communications director reiterated Monday.
``The governor, after consulting with legal counsel and advisers, has determined that an investigation would be rather pointless given the political nature that this has taken on,'' said Rob Stutzman, Schwarzenegger's communications director."
Does this include all future investigations and accusations also?
Hey, at least he's got that 'tell the voters one thing, do another' political dance down. Who said this guy isn't qualified?
Monday, December 08, 2003
intThe Australian: James Franklin: Philosophy, a matter of life and death [ 08dec03 ]
The Australian: James Franklin: Philosophy, a matter of life and death [ 08dec03 ]: "In 1935, John Anderson, the University of Sydney's professor of Philosophy and Sydney's best-known academic, wrote a newspaper article in which he said Australian culture was dominated by one philosophical attitude."
Hint, they were founded by thieves. It is strange how this seems to keep popping up whenever there is a discussion of Australia.
Hint, they were founded by thieves. It is strange how this seems to keep popping up whenever there is a discussion of Australia.
FSU: Orange Bowl Pairing Is The Pits - from Tampa Bay Online
FSU: Orange Bowl Pairing Is The Pits - from Tampa Bay Online: "TALLAHASSEE - A week ago, Florida State coach Bobby Bowden was delighted to be stuck between two likely and tantalizing postseason scenarios - either his first trip to the Rose Bowl and a date with fourth-ranked Michigan, or a return to the Fiesta Bowl to play Texas.
On Sunday, Bowden and his Seminoles were simply stuck."
Heck, why not just have special 'electors' from each state get together and vote, en masse, about who should be the 'National Champ'. The BCS is so bad, it's not even right to call it a 'National Championship' anymore, it is the 'BCS Championship', which means fuck-all to anyone.
On Sunday, Bowden and his Seminoles were simply stuck."
Heck, why not just have special 'electors' from each state get together and vote, en masse, about who should be the 'National Champ'. The BCS is so bad, it's not even right to call it a 'National Championship' anymore, it is the 'BCS Championship', which means fuck-all to anyone.
United Press International: Analysis: Medicare law has cost drawbacks
United Press International: Analysis: Medicare law has cost drawbacks: "WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- President Bush scored a political victory Monday when he signed the Medicare prescription drug bill, but the new law has strings attached and rising out-of-pocket costs for seniors."
Thank god all those patents will expire by the time I retire, otherwise I might get the shaft like all these old people did.
Thank god all those patents will expire by the time I retire, otherwise I might get the shaft like all these old people did.
TCS: Tech Central Station - Robot Nation?
TCS: Tech Central Station - Robot Nation?
I started working on a draft about Mr. Brain's work a while back, guess I need to finish it.
I started working on a draft about Mr. Brain's work a while back, guess I need to finish it.
TCS: Tech Central Station - Robot Nation?
TCS: Tech Central Station - Robot Nation?
I started working on a draft about Mr. Brain's work a while back, guess I need to finish it.
I started working on a draft about Mr. Brain's work a while back, guess I need to finish it.
TCS: Tech Central Station - Robot Nation?
TCS: Tech Central Station - Robot Nation?
I started working on a draft about Mr. Brain's work a while back, guess I need to finish it.
I started working on a draft about Mr. Brain's work a while back, guess I need to finish it.
Slashdot | World Summit On The Internet And IT
Slashdot | World Summit On The Internet And ITThis will probably be a wee bit scary.
Saturday, December 06, 2003
IRAN - uprising quelled in Baloch (Baluchistan) region -- 4 dead? 30?
IRAN - uprising quelled in Baloch (Baluchistan) region -- 4 dead? 30?
oy vey! Developing, slowly, as per.
oy vey! Developing, slowly, as per.
Friday, December 05, 2003
pandagon.net - 12/04/2003: "Twenty Most Annoying Conservatives of 2003"
pandagon.net - 12/04/2003: "Twenty Most Annoying Conservatives of 2003"
Good stuff, and it gets better when the attacks come in the comments. See the massive rift in political ideology in the U.S., all nice and organized in black and white.
Good stuff, and it gets better when the attacks come in the comments. See the massive rift in political ideology in the U.S., all nice and organized in black and white.
Herald.com - Your Miami Everything Guide
Herald.com - Your Miami Everything Guide: "BUENOS AIRES - At the height of the Argentine military junta's bloody ''dirty war'' against leftists in the 1970s, then-Secretary of State Henry Kissinger told the Argentine foreign minister that ''we would like you to succeed,'' a newly declassified U.S. document reveals.
The transcript of the meeting between Kissinger and Navy Adm. César Augusto Guzzetti in New York on Oct. 7, 1976, is the first documentary evidence that the Gerald Ford administration approved of the junta's harsh tactics, which led to the deaths or ''disappearance'' of some 30,000 people from 1975 to 1983."
Whew, thank god we didn't sign that ICC thingy. Hell, some people might be held accountable if we did. And we can't have that, sure, we demand it from everyone else, but we certainly can't be expected to follow our own rules.
The transcript of the meeting between Kissinger and Navy Adm. César Augusto Guzzetti in New York on Oct. 7, 1976, is the first documentary evidence that the Gerald Ford administration approved of the junta's harsh tactics, which led to the deaths or ''disappearance'' of some 30,000 people from 1975 to 1983."
Whew, thank god we didn't sign that ICC thingy. Hell, some people might be held accountable if we did. And we can't have that, sure, we demand it from everyone else, but we certainly can't be expected to follow our own rules.
Times Online - Health
Times Online - Health: "JUST a few alcoholic drinks a week may be enough to shrink the brain, according to US research.
Middle-aged men and women who consume moderate amounts of alcohol on a regular basis tend to have lower concentrations of brain tissue than teetotallers or occasional drinkers, scientists have discovered. "
hu-huh, hu-huh, hu-huh, alchohol shrinks your brain. Thus leading to the survival of the fittest neuron theory many drinkers subscribe to.
Middle-aged men and women who consume moderate amounts of alcohol on a regular basis tend to have lower concentrations of brain tissue than teetotallers or occasional drinkers, scientists have discovered. "
hu-huh, hu-huh, hu-huh, alchohol shrinks your brain. Thus leading to the survival of the fittest neuron theory many drinkers subscribe to.
Thursday, December 04, 2003
CBC News: Oldest male fossil 'amazing'
CBC News: Oldest male fossil 'amazing': "It was named Colymbosathon ecplecticos, which is Greek for 'amazing swimmer with large penis.' "
Who says egghead's have no sense of humor?
Who says egghead's have no sense of humor?
POPSHOT 2004
POPSHOT 2004: "The result was an influx of “liberal” minds to the Republican side of the debate. The great success of weblogging shows off this trend in sharp detail. One need look no further than the “Blogfather,” Glenn Reynolds of Instapundit.com, for evidence. Reynolds openly discusses pre-marital sex, rock ‘n’ roll, drug use and other non-conservative subjects while maintaining a resolute support of the war in Iraq. Time was when no one spoke favorably on all these topics except P.J. O’Rourke. "
Well, let's also remeber that many of the issues that were once considered 'liberal' are now pretty much totally mainstream, lending to their use and adoption by conservatives. If you are on the edge, you got's to keep moving.
Well, let's also remeber that many of the issues that were once considered 'liberal' are now pretty much totally mainstream, lending to their use and adoption by conservatives. If you are on the edge, you got's to keep moving.
Wednesday, December 03, 2003
CBS 11: CBS 11 Investigates Poison Gas Plot
CBS 11: CBS 11 Investigates Poison Gas Plot: "Federal authorities this year mounted one of the most extensive investigations of domestic terrorism since the Oklahoma City bombing, CBS 11 has learned.
Three people linked to white supremacist and anti-government groups are in custody. At least one weapon of mass destruction - a sodium cyanide bomb capable of delivering a deadly gas cloud - has been seized in the Tyler area.
Investigators have seized at least 100 other bombs, bomb components, machine guns, 500,000 rounds of ammunition and chemical agents. But the government also found some chilling personal documents indicating that unknown co-conspirators may still be free to carry out what appeared to be an advanced plot. And, authorities familiar with the case say more potentially deadly cyanide bombs may be in circulation."
Well, there ya go. Another front in the War on Terror. And that ain't Iraq, it's Texas.
Three people linked to white supremacist and anti-government groups are in custody. At least one weapon of mass destruction - a sodium cyanide bomb capable of delivering a deadly gas cloud - has been seized in the Tyler area.
Investigators have seized at least 100 other bombs, bomb components, machine guns, 500,000 rounds of ammunition and chemical agents. But the government also found some chilling personal documents indicating that unknown co-conspirators may still be free to carry out what appeared to be an advanced plot. And, authorities familiar with the case say more potentially deadly cyanide bombs may be in circulation."
Well, there ya go. Another front in the War on Terror. And that ain't Iraq, it's Texas.
Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger
Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger: "Washington, DC - The Maryland Congressman who started a program to help U.S. troops fly home on donated frequent flyer miles says a new report from the Library of Congress reveals that a plan for the government to begin paying for the flights falls short of the funds required.
Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) released a memo from the Library's Congressional Research Service (CRS), which says the $55 million recently appropriated by Congress to pay for soldier's domestic flights, '...is not sufficient to ensure each and every service member on R&R would receive travel assistance to his or her home.' The report noted that officials of the Department of Defense told CRS that the total cost of a program to pay for R&R travel all the way home would mean the $55 million would run out in a matter of a few months."
I got 10G for these folks. Match-up warmongers.
Heck of an idea, BTW.
Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) released a memo from the Library's Congressional Research Service (CRS), which says the $55 million recently appropriated by Congress to pay for soldier's domestic flights, '...is not sufficient to ensure each and every service member on R&R would receive travel assistance to his or her home.' The report noted that officials of the Department of Defense told CRS that the total cost of a program to pay for R&R travel all the way home would mean the $55 million would run out in a matter of a few months."
I got 10G for these folks. Match-up warmongers.
Heck of an idea, BTW.
Use PCP And Become Another Statistic (washingtonpost.com)
Use PCP And Become Another Statistic (washingtonpost.com): "Well before Nathaniel Jones had his violent and ultimately fatal confrontation with Cincinnati police Sunday, something happened that pretty much sealed his fate.
He used PCP.
And what we saw on that police video was a predictable result from a drug with its own special ways of killing and getting people killed."
I saw the tape of this last night. Not going to draw any conclusions until they release that first 1:37, but I might link this story.
He used PCP.
And what we saw on that police video was a predictable result from a drug with its own special ways of killing and getting people killed."
I saw the tape of this last night. Not going to draw any conclusions until they release that first 1:37, but I might link this story.
Nanotchnology: Are 'Molecular Assemblers' Possible?
Nanotchnology: Are 'Molecular Assemblers' Possible?: "Two experts in the field of nanotechnology, K. Eric Drexler, Ph.D., cofounder of the Foresight Institute in Palo Alto, Calif., and the person who coined the term 'nanotechnology,' and Richard E. Smalley, Ph.D., a professor at Rice University and winner of the 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, exchanged open letters about this question. These letters are making the -- long -- cover story of the current issue of Chemical & Engineering News."
Interesting reading on the future of nanotech and some good barbed exchanges.
Interesting reading on the future of nanotech and some good barbed exchanges.
Tuesday, December 02, 2003
40th Mersenne Prime Discovered
40th Mersenne Prime Discovered: "ORLANDO, Florida - December 2, 2003 -- Michael Shafer, a 26 year-old volunteer in the Mersenne.org research project called the Great Internet Mersenne Prime Search (GIMPS), has discovered the largest known prime number. Shafer used a Michigan State University lab PC and free software by George Woltman and Scott Kurowski as part of an international grid of 211,000 networked computers in virtually every time zone of the world."
This is so nerdly even I had to look up the point of it. Read the headline, that's the point.
Something along the lines of understanding mountainclimbers and their desire to scale Everest and every other big rock is needed to appreciate the significance of this particular discovery.
This is so nerdly even I had to look up the point of it. Read the headline, that's the point.
Something along the lines of understanding mountainclimbers and their desire to scale Everest and every other big rock is needed to appreciate the significance of this particular discovery.
Israeli official: U.S. Secretary of State should not meet ``Geneva Accord'' organizers
Israeli official: U.S. Secretary of State should not meet ``Geneva Accord'' organizers: "Reversing his initial lukewarm initial response, Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat sent a message to the Geneva gathering warmly praising the virtual treaty, calling it 'a brave initiative that opens the door to peace.'
However, militant Palestinian groups denounced the accord and called the Palestinian negotiators 'traitors,' objecting to concessions over the return of refugees to their original homes in Israel.
In reaction from the Arab world, the newspaper 'Oman' praised the accord. In an editorial, the paper described it as the first true Palestinian or Arab document that gives a comprehensive vision for a solution to all the issues and paves the way for a Palestinian state. "
Okay, when I see the hardline nutjobs on both side being unhappy with the deal, then we are on the right road.
However, militant Palestinian groups denounced the accord and called the Palestinian negotiators 'traitors,' objecting to concessions over the return of refugees to their original homes in Israel.
In reaction from the Arab world, the newspaper 'Oman' praised the accord. In an editorial, the paper described it as the first true Palestinian or Arab document that gives a comprehensive vision for a solution to all the issues and paves the way for a Palestinian state. "
Okay, when I see the hardline nutjobs on both side being unhappy with the deal, then we are on the right road.
Philip Greenspun's Weblog:
Philip Greenspun's Weblog:: "Not all of our students will see this cover story in Business Week on the migration of high-paying jobs to India. But most attended a lecture in 6.171 by the folks who run MIT's latest big IT effort: OpenCourseware (http://ocw.mit.edu), which distributes syllabi, problem sets, and other materials from MIT classes (at least one semester after the class is actually given). During the lecture the students learned that, although ocw.mit.edu is a purely static .html site, it is produced with a database-backed content management system. In fact, of the $11 million donated by foundations to support the service, about $2 million was spent on technology and the salaries of folks at MIT who oversee the technology."
Interesting comments on the IT industry and it's move to commoditization and collapse.
Interesting comments on the IT industry and it's move to commoditization and collapse.
VOANews.com
VOANews.com: "U.S. immigration officials say they are suspending a controversial program requiring young men from 25 mainly Middle Eastern countries to register annually while in the United States.
Critics had accused the government of unfairly targeting thousands of people on grounds of nationality and called the program intrusive. "
Fortress America in the New American Century.
Critics had accused the government of unfairly targeting thousands of people on grounds of nationality and called the program intrusive. "
Fortress America in the New American Century.
MediaGuardian.co.uk | City | Stanley Gold's letter of resignation to Walt Disney board
MediaGuardian.co.uk | City | Stanley Gold's letter of resignation to Walt Disney board: "'It is with regret that I resign effective immediately from the Board of Directors of the Walt Disney Co. and second Roy Disney's call for the removal of Michael Eisner as chairman and chief executive. I am proud of my more than 15 years of service and my role in reshaping the company in 1984 by bringing Frank Wells and Michael Eisner to the company. I do, however, lament that my efforts over the past three years to implement needed changes has only succeeded in creating an insular board of directors serving as a bulwark to shield management from criticism and accountability."
Two down, one more midget to go.
Two down, one more midget to go.
Geneva Accord
FT.com Home UK: " 'two state' solution with a demilitarised Palestinian state and Jerusalem split into two capitals. Arab east Jerusalem to be part of Palestine, Israel to keep Jewish parts and adjacent West Bank settlements.
� Israel would withdraw to pre-1967 borders. Some big settlements would be dismantled, but 75 per cent of Jewish settlers would remain inside Palestinian territories and under Israel's protection.
� In exchange for keeping some Jewish settlements, Israel to give Palestinians an area of the Negev desert adjacent to the Gaza Strip. A safe passage route to be created between the West Bank and Gaza.
� Palestinians would waive the right of 3.6m refugees from the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and their descendants to return to Israel.
For a full text of the accord
Click here
� Israel would cede sovereignty over the shrine in Jerusalem known to Jews as the Temple Mount and to Muslims as al-Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary). Israel would retain control of the Western Wall.
� Palestinians would recognise Israel, end violence and disarm militants."
Sounds like a deal to me.
� Israel would withdraw to pre-1967 borders. Some big settlements would be dismantled, but 75 per cent of Jewish settlers would remain inside Palestinian territories and under Israel's protection.
� In exchange for keeping some Jewish settlements, Israel to give Palestinians an area of the Negev desert adjacent to the Gaza Strip. A safe passage route to be created between the West Bank and Gaza.
� Palestinians would waive the right of 3.6m refugees from the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and their descendants to return to Israel.
For a full text of the accord
Click here
� Israel would cede sovereignty over the shrine in Jerusalem known to Jews as the Temple Mount and to Muslims as al-Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary). Israel would retain control of the Western Wall.
� Palestinians would recognise Israel, end violence and disarm militants."
Sounds like a deal to me.
Technology News: Diebold Retracts Legal Threats Over Voting Machine Flaws
Technology News: Diebold Retracts Legal Threats Over Voting Machine Flaws: "Diebold Elections Systems spokesperson David Bear told TechNewsWorld that the company simply 'chose not to pursue legal action' that was based on copyright protection and the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). "
Maybe that's because you would be using copyright law to keep people from talking about potentially MASSIVE vote fraud. BTW, this fraud can be done with an off the shelf version of Microsoft Access.
Maybe that's because you would be using copyright law to keep people from talking about potentially MASSIVE vote fraud. BTW, this fraud can be done with an off the shelf version of Microsoft Access.
Pentagon puts hold on Boeing tanker deal - Dec. 2, 2003
Pentagon puts hold on Boeing tanker deal - Dec. 2, 2003: "WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Pentagon has told Congress it will postpone action on $18 billion in contracts for 100 Boeing Co. 767 tankers until the deal is investigated following Boeing's firing of two officials for ethical violations, Defense Department officials said Tuesday. "
Mainly they got busted for jumping the gun on what seems to be standard practices for the military industrial complex.
Mainly they got busted for jumping the gun on what seems to be standard practices for the military industrial complex.
Monday, December 01, 2003
the RANT:: Media Bias
the RANT:: Media Bias: "The media doesn�t exist to inform the public, it exists to make money. It is really that simple. As long as the media is a for profit venture, designed to get ratings, the problem of bad reporting will forever be an issue. What many people don't realize is that for most of their existence the news divisions of the major networks, going back to the days of radio, were money-losing efforts, the evil government required that the broadcasters devote a percentage of their operating expenses to covering news or risk loseing their license to broadcast. As a result, you had news divisions that were under no pressure to 'get ratings' and the coverage was far less sensational and tended to focus on producing quality journalism. With little pressure to produce ratings broadcasters concentrated on covering the news with objectivity and public service as their primary goal."
Very true, I think this has been mentioned before.
Very true, I think this has been mentioned before.
Last of the Disney's
Roy E. Disney quits.
This would have been much more timely without the Sonny Bono Copyright Extension Act. Then Mickey could have joined Roy in the free world of Not-Disney.
This would have been much more timely without the Sonny Bono Copyright Extension Act. Then Mickey could have joined Roy in the free world of Not-Disney.
Friday, November 28, 2003
Iranian blogger for parliament | Metafilter
Iranian blogger for parliament | Metafilter: "Iranian blogger wants to run for parliament. Jeff Jarvis has more, as well as Blogbex."
Wish him luck.
Wish him luck.
Wednesday, November 26, 2003
The Register
The Register: "Just weeks after an antitrust suit was filed against the RIAA by webcasters, the music labels' lobby group, is, along with Hollywood, seeking a permanent exemption from similar litigation. The proposal seeks to extend the exemption to anything covering mechanical copyright: a sweeping extension of the copyright cartel's immunity. "
Hatch on the Hollywood teat. You know, a few years back he was fighting against these guys. I guess the Repubs figured this would be a good issue to try and sway the support of Hollywood on over. Seems to be working rather swimmingly.
Hatch on the Hollywood teat. You know, a few years back he was fighting against these guys. I guess the Repubs figured this would be a good issue to try and sway the support of Hollywood on over. Seems to be working rather swimmingly.
Republican Aide Improperly Got Democratic Memos
Republican Aide Improperly Got Democratic Memos: "According to the memos, Democrats on Hatch's panel conferred with liberal groups in opposing Bush's most conservative judicial nominees.
Hatch had suggested that the memos had been turned over to the news media by a ``conscience-stricken'' Democratic staffer.
But the senator said on Tuesday that after the Democratic concerns were voiced, he had ``two experienced federal prosecutors'' assigned to his panel interview about 50 people even as computer records were secured.
``It is with deep regret I must report today the interviews conducted to date have revealed that at least one current member of Judiciary Committee majority staff had improperly accessed at least some of the documents referenced in the media reports,'' Hatch said."
Hmm, maybe we'll get the 'leak trifecta' today.
Hatch had suggested that the memos had been turned over to the news media by a ``conscience-stricken'' Democratic staffer.
But the senator said on Tuesday that after the Democratic concerns were voiced, he had ``two experienced federal prosecutors'' assigned to his panel interview about 50 people even as computer records were secured.
``It is with deep regret I must report today the interviews conducted to date have revealed that at least one current member of Judiciary Committee majority staff had improperly accessed at least some of the documents referenced in the media reports,'' Hatch said."
Hmm, maybe we'll get the 'leak trifecta' today.
The top 10 images from solar satellite
The top 10 images from solar satellite: "Nov. 25 — Space.com announces the top 10 images of the sun taken by the Solar and Helospheric Observatory, based on votes cast by the public."
Cool slideshow of the pics. Kinda puts our squabbles in perspective.
Cool slideshow of the pics. Kinda puts our squabbles in perspective.
sunspot.net - nation/world
sunspot.net - nation/world: "A former British intelligence worker has been charged in Great Britain with violating state secrecy laws, in connection with the alleged leak of a National Security Agency memo calling for intensified spying on United Nations envoys in the run-up to the Iraq war.
Katharine Teresa Gun, 29, a translator at the British code-breaking agency who was arrested days after a London newspaper published the memo in March, was charged Thursday with one count of breaching her country's Official Secrets Act, said Alan Crockford, a spokesman for Scotland Yard. "
From the previous link. I remember this one happening in real time. Gave us a quick peek behind the curtain. And for only 2 years in prison.
Katharine Teresa Gun, 29, a translator at the British code-breaking agency who was arrested days after a London newspaper published the memo in March, was charged Thursday with one count of breaching her country's Official Secrets Act, said Alan Crockford, a spokesman for Scotland Yard. "
From the previous link. I remember this one happening in real time. Gave us a quick peek behind the curtain. And for only 2 years in prison.
Democrats Decry 'Compromise' on FCC Rule (TechNews.com)
Democrats Decry 'Compromise' on FCC Rule (TechNews.com): "'The Republicans went into a closet, met with themselves, and announced a 'compromise,' ' Sen. Ernest F. Hollings (D-S.C.) said in a prepared statement. 'The Democrats and the conferees were ignored, and the press ought to be ashamed of calling it a 'compromise.' We weren't a part of it whatsoever.' "
Old rule 35%, new rule 45%. New ruled blocked by courts and Congress. 'Compromise' reached after Bush White House threatens first ever veto. I wonder how the pundits on Fox, et al. will react to this.
"Of the four networks, CBS and Fox already own groups of stations that exceed the 35 percent cap, with CBS at 39 percent and Fox at 38 percent. Stations owned by NBC reach about 35 percent of the country, while ABC's stations reach less than 25 percent.
CBS and NBC each declined to comment yesterday. Mel Karmazin, president of CBS parent Viacom Inc., has consistently argued against any cap, saying networks ought to be allowed to buy as many stations as they can afford.
Two of the four major television networks were mum yesterday on the deal. But Rupert Murdoch, chief executive of News Corp., which owns Fox, said after a shareholders' meeting yesterday that even though he hadn't reviewed details of the new cap, "on the face of it, it suits us just fine."
Old rule 35%, new rule 45%. New ruled blocked by courts and Congress. 'Compromise' reached after Bush White House threatens first ever veto. I wonder how the pundits on Fox, et al. will react to this.
"Of the four networks, CBS and Fox already own groups of stations that exceed the 35 percent cap, with CBS at 39 percent and Fox at 38 percent. Stations owned by NBC reach about 35 percent of the country, while ABC's stations reach less than 25 percent.
CBS and NBC each declined to comment yesterday. Mel Karmazin, president of CBS parent Viacom Inc., has consistently argued against any cap, saying networks ought to be allowed to buy as many stations as they can afford.
Two of the four major television networks were mum yesterday on the deal. But Rupert Murdoch, chief executive of News Corp., which owns Fox, said after a shareholders' meeting yesterday that even though he hadn't reviewed details of the new cap, "on the face of it, it suits us just fine."
Tuesday, November 25, 2003
GigaOm: Essays: The Number Portability Tips for Consumers
GigaOm: Essays: The Number Portability Tips for Consumers: "With November 24, 2003, around the corner, it is time for all of to get to know more about the highly anticipated Wireless Local Number Portability (WLNP). WLNP will allow wireless subscribers to change service providers within a given location while retaining the same phone number. As such, WLNP will dramatically change the face of the wireless industry, having eliminated a major hurdle for consumers who desire to switch wireless providers. With our friends at Adventis and some other experts such as MyRatePlan.com, I have come up a short to-do list on number portability."
FREEEDOOMMM for cell phones.
FREEEDOOMMM for cell phones.
CNN.com - Setback reported in global war against hunger - Nov. 25, 2003
CNN.com - Setback reported in global war against hunger - Nov. 25, 2003: "The number of hungry people in the developing world increased by 18 million in the second half of the 1990s after dropping by 37 million in the first half of the decade, according to 'The State of Food Insecurity in the World 2003.' "
Does hunger count as terror? Guess not.
Does hunger count as terror? Guess not.
The 10 Biggest Spam Myths
The 10 Biggest Spam Myths: "The more spam panels, conferences, and symposia I attend and the more spam articles and press releases I read, the more I hear certain facts, figures, and other received ideas cited and re-cited. They're then duly parroted in the media. Some enjoy a measure of validity. Most can be filed under 'say it often enough and they'll think it's true.'"
This should really be 9, since number 7 is pretty true. Trying to tell someone that sends you five emails a day for penisdrugs that you don't want them, probably isn't going to work. Heck, telling them you are a blind lesbian who doesn't read probably wouldn't help.
This should really be 9, since number 7 is pretty true. Trying to tell someone that sends you five emails a day for penisdrugs that you don't want them, probably isn't going to work. Heck, telling them you are a blind lesbian who doesn't read probably wouldn't help.
DMNews.com | News | Article
DMNews.com | News | Article: "
With California's anti-spam bill looming, e-mail marketers breathed a sigh of relief that federal spam legislation is expected to override it.
The congressional logjam broke Friday after negotiations between leaders of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House shelved its competing spam bills in favor of a modified version of the CAN-SPAM Act of 2003, which the Senate had unanimously passed Oct. 22. "
The Feds pretty much took the teeth out of the provision, making standard practices the law, and leaving very little for individuals to do against SPAM. AOL and MSN are sure to fight hard against spam, as they make no money at all selling lists of millions of emails for people with detailed demographic, psychographics, and behavioral information to direct marketers.
With California's anti-spam bill looming, e-mail marketers breathed a sigh of relief that federal spam legislation is expected to override it.
The congressional logjam broke Friday after negotiations between leaders of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House shelved its competing spam bills in favor of a modified version of the CAN-SPAM Act of 2003, which the Senate had unanimously passed Oct. 22. "
The Feds pretty much took the teeth out of the provision, making standard practices the law, and leaving very little for individuals to do against SPAM. AOL and MSN are sure to fight hard against spam, as they make no money at all selling lists of millions of emails for people with detailed demographic, psychographics, and behavioral information to direct marketers.
FOXNews.com - Views - ifeminists - Zero Patience for Zero Tolerance
FOXNews.com - Views - ifeminists - Zero Patience for Zero Tolerance: "News shows recently showed video of 14 police officers charging a crowded high-school corridor with guns drawn in a drug sweep. Students at Stratford Creek High School in Goose Creek, S.C., were forced onto their knees or against walls, while dogs sniffed their backpacks for drugs.
None were found. Although the incident was extreme, it was not an aberration but the logical consequences of 'zero tolerance' policies, defended by both the school and the police. Zero tolerance must be abandoned, especially in connection with children. "
These kids will live their whole lives and think 'the drill' is normal.
'On your knees. Spead 'em'.
'O.k. I know the drill."
None were found. Although the incident was extreme, it was not an aberration but the logical consequences of 'zero tolerance' policies, defended by both the school and the police. Zero tolerance must be abandoned, especially in connection with children. "
These kids will live their whole lives and think 'the drill' is normal.
'On your knees. Spead 'em'.
'O.k. I know the drill."
The War on Terror Scorecard
The Scorecard: "More than two years after the World Trade Center towers came down and the President declared his 'war on terrorism,' it seems reasonable to offer a little scorecard on the 'war(s)' of choice for this administration."
This is a weak article because it doesn't miss the successes of the War. They are few and far between (unless you beleive that 'Mission Accoplished' is true), but they are there. So giving a final .000 isn't quite accurate.
This is a weak article because it doesn't miss the successes of the War. They are few and far between (unless you beleive that 'Mission Accoplished' is true), but they are there. So giving a final .000 isn't quite accurate.
Economy Grows at Whopping 8.2 Percent Pace in Third Quarter, Strongest Since 1984 - from Tampa Bay Online
Economy Grows at Whopping 8.2 Percent Pace in Third Quarter, Strongest Since 1984 - from Tampa Bay Online: "WASHINGTON (AP) -The economy roared ahead at an astounding 8.2 percent annual rate in the third quarter, the fastest pace in nearly two decades and a much stronger performance than previously thought. It raises hope that a long spell of lackluster business activity is finally over."
Yep, moving all those jobs over seas is finally seeing some fruit. Now maybe, it will make some jobs.
Yep, moving all those jobs over seas is finally seeing some fruit. Now maybe, it will make some jobs.
Monday, November 24, 2003
HoustonChronicle.com - University's software kicks off downloaders
HoustonChronicle.com - University's software kicks off downloaders: "ICARUS scans the network to ensure students are not pulling down music or video using peer-to-peer software. For a first violation, transgressors lose Internet access for 30 minutes and must watch a 10-minute interactive Web program on copyright law. A second violation bars students from the Internet for five days, while a third can result in a lengthy ban and could lead to a written reprimand. "
Ever wonder how we get from this society to the 1984/Brave New World/Running Man one?
Baby steps like this.
Ever wonder how we get from this society to the 1984/Brave New World/Running Man one?
Baby steps like this.
AlterNet: Call Me a Bush-Hater
AlterNet: Call Me a Bush-Hater: "After all this time and all those millions of dollars wasted, no one has ever proved that the Clintons did a single thing wrong. Bill Clinton lied about a pathetic, squalid affair that was none of anyone else's business anyway, and for that they impeached the man and dragged this country through more than a year of the most tawdry, ridiculous, unnecessary pain. The day President Clinton tried to take out Osama bin Laden with a missile strike, every right-winger in America said it was a case of 'wag the dog.' He was supposedly trying to divert our attention from the much more breathtakingly important and serious matter of Monica Lewinsky. And who did he think he was to make us focus on some piffle like bin Laden? "
I learned it from watching you, dad!
I learned it from watching you, dad!
Center for American Progress - Think Again: For 9/11 Investigation, Where Is Fox? - Page
Center for American Progress - Think Again: For 9/11 Investigation, Where Is Fox? - Page: "Following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Congress — over intense White House objections - created an independent, 10-person commission to investigate the bombings that took nearly 3,000 lives. In the tradition of the Warren Commission, and the inquiries into Pearl Harbor, the 9/11 commission would offer up the definitive take on the historic tragedy, and provide key assessments so America was never caught off guard again. And it would do that by combing through millions of documents, with unfettered access. Thomas Kean, former New Jersey Republican governor who’s chairing the commission, recently reported it’s engaged in 'the largest investigation of the United States government in United States history.'"
Hear about the 9/11 Commission? No, well that's not particularly surprising.
Hear about the 9/11 Commission? No, well that's not particularly surprising.
iPod's Dirty Secret - Neistat Brothers
iPod's Dirty Secret - Neistat Brothers
Hardward companies don't give out free hardware. 18 month in, your ipod might be a cute little white paperweight.
Hardward companies don't give out free hardware. 18 month in, your ipod might be a cute little white paperweight.
Sunday, November 23, 2003
Bush's Remark About God Assailed (washingtonpost.com)
Bush's Remark About God Assailed (washingtonpost.com): "The Rev. Ted Haggard, president of the National Association of Evangelicals, also issued a statement contradicting Bush.
'The Christian God encourages freedom, love, forgiveness, prosperity and health. The Muslim god appears to value the opposite. The personalities of each god are evident in the cultures, civilizations and dispositions of the peoples that serve them. Muhammad's central message was submission; Jesus' central message was love. They seem to be very different personalities,' Haggard said.
Sayyid M. Syeed, secretary general of the Islamic Society of North America, responded to Bush's statement with a single word: Alhamdullah, Thanks be to God.
"We read again and again in the Koran that our god is the god of Abraham, the god of Noah, the god of Jesus," he said. "It would not come to the mind of a Muslim that there is a different god that Abraham or Jesus or Moses was praying to."
Funny stuff. I wonder what Boykin thinks.
'The Christian God encourages freedom, love, forgiveness, prosperity and health. The Muslim god appears to value the opposite. The personalities of each god are evident in the cultures, civilizations and dispositions of the peoples that serve them. Muhammad's central message was submission; Jesus' central message was love. They seem to be very different personalities,' Haggard said.
Sayyid M. Syeed, secretary general of the Islamic Society of North America, responded to Bush's statement with a single word: Alhamdullah, Thanks be to God.
"We read again and again in the Koran that our god is the god of Abraham, the god of Noah, the god of Jesus," he said. "It would not come to the mind of a Muslim that there is a different god that Abraham or Jesus or Moses was praying to."
Funny stuff. I wonder what Boykin thinks.
Saturday, November 22, 2003
Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | War critics astonished as US hawk admits invasion was illegal
Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | War critics astonished as US hawk admits invasion was illegal: "International lawyers and anti-war campaigners reacted with astonishment yesterday after the influential Pentagon hawk Richard Perle conceded that the invasion of Iraq had been illegal. "
Super biased reporting, but worth taking a look at.
Super biased reporting, but worth taking a look at.
Mike Robertson on MP3.com / Latest news / Root folder - p2pnet.net
Mike Robertson on MP3.com / Latest news / Root folder - p2pnet.net: "Lost in all this corporate development was the actual library of more than 1 million songs. It simply didn't fit into any of Vivendi's corporate initiatives. "
Death of MP3.com. Yea, this is why we are cynical about this crap.
Death of MP3.com. Yea, this is why we are cynical about this crap.
The Smoking Gun: Archive :: Jackson Accuser
The Smoking Gun: Archive: "In a recent court bid for spousal and child support, the woman reported that she was unemployed and that her income was limited to a $769 monthly check from the federal Aid to Families with Dependent Children program. The woman stated her family had monthly expenses totaling $1340, which included rent of $425. The woman's support request was approved this March by an L.A. judge who ordered that $1499 be automatically deducted from her estranged husband's paycheck."
It's tough to cut Mike slack, being such a super-freak and all, but there's always some questions when a possible shakedown situation is apparent.
Then again, many of the kids that visit the ranch are poor or 'under-priviledged', so maybe it's not surprising that this happens to be the case.
It's tough to cut Mike slack, being such a super-freak and all, but there's always some questions when a possible shakedown situation is apparent.
Then again, many of the kids that visit the ranch are poor or 'under-priviledged', so maybe it's not surprising that this happens to be the case.
Pepsi dumps celebrities for simpler ads - billingsgazette.com
Pepsi dumps celebrities for simpler ads - billingsgazette.com: "'The challenge for Pepsi and Coke is getting their big flagship colas back to modest growth or at least flat performance, so their declines don't undercut growth in diet sodas and water,' said John Sicher, editor and publisher of Beverage Digest.
Katie Lacey, Pepsi's vice president for colas and media, said research shows that people are still drinking colas, just not as often. One factor is the proliferation of other options.
'We've been losing drinks, not drinkers,' she said. "
I can't stand these people. Our population is just on the verge of figuring out that drinking lots of carbonated high fructose corn syrup doesn't lead to the most amazing physiques, and now it's the 'challenge' for these guys to fight back that enlightenment.
Can you guess why I didn't go into a career in advertising?
Katie Lacey, Pepsi's vice president for colas and media, said research shows that people are still drinking colas, just not as often. One factor is the proliferation of other options.
'We've been losing drinks, not drinkers,' she said. "
I can't stand these people. Our population is just on the verge of figuring out that drinking lots of carbonated high fructose corn syrup doesn't lead to the most amazing physiques, and now it's the 'challenge' for these guys to fight back that enlightenment.
Can you guess why I didn't go into a career in advertising?
Friday, November 21, 2003
WORLD November 29, 2003: And now, the backlash
WORLD November 29, 2003: And now, the backlash: "So where are we? Despite what the Times says, gays may not have gained a big victory in Massachusetts. The overreach will lead to a big defeat, if pro-marriage forces are courageous and determined. "
Funny, I though the Masachusetts SC decision was pro-marriage. It will certainly lead to more families with married parents.
Funny, I though the Masachusetts SC decision was pro-marriage. It will certainly lead to more families with married parents.
Iraq War Officially Declared Surreal
United Press International: Rockets on donkeys hit major Baghdad sites: "'The enemy used homemade rocket launchers on carts attached to donkeys,' Mansoor told reporters. 'The rockets were set to a timer and hidden under produce. We have some leads in both cases in our efforts to find who was behind these attacks.'
About 250 meters away from the hotel, an agitated donkey tethered to a toppled cart could be seen in the custody of U.S. troops. According to the U.S. military and local witnesses, the donkey - acting without an accomplice - dragged the lettuce cart down the main street outside the hotel while a timer operated the rockets.
Apparently upon the beginning of the barrage, the donkey broke discipline and panicked, toppling the cart. At that point, the rockets disconnected from the timer, leaving them strewn around the street. Tethered to the now toppled cart, the donkey was unable to escape before the arrival of U.S. troops."
Box cutters and donkey carts against JDAMS and F-16s. We live on a strange planet.
About 250 meters away from the hotel, an agitated donkey tethered to a toppled cart could be seen in the custody of U.S. troops. According to the U.S. military and local witnesses, the donkey - acting without an accomplice - dragged the lettuce cart down the main street outside the hotel while a timer operated the rockets.
Apparently upon the beginning of the barrage, the donkey broke discipline and panicked, toppling the cart. At that point, the rockets disconnected from the timer, leaving them strewn around the street. Tethered to the now toppled cart, the donkey was unable to escape before the arrival of U.S. troops."
Box cutters and donkey carts against JDAMS and F-16s. We live on a strange planet.
Thursday, November 20, 2003
The Walnut's Perspective
Baghdad Burning: "They've been bombing houses in Tikrit and other areas! Unbelievable… I'm so angry it makes me want to break something!!!! What the hell is going on?! What do the Americans think Tikrit is?! Some sort of city of monsters or beasts? The people there are simple people. Most of them make a living off of their land and their livestock- the rest are teachers, professors and merchants- they have lives and families… Tikrit is nothing more than a bunch of low buildings and a palace that was as inaccessible to the Tikritis as it was to everyone else! "
Another powerful post from Riverbend. I posted something the other day about 'smashing a walnut with a sledgehammer', well this is what it makes the other walnuts think. The ones that aren't spoiled and poisonous.
Another powerful post from Riverbend. I posted something the other day about 'smashing a walnut with a sledgehammer', well this is what it makes the other walnuts think. The ones that aren't spoiled and poisonous.
Democrats Embrace Court Ruling on Gay Marriages -- GOPUSA
Democrats Embrace Court Ruling on Gay Marriages -- GOPUSA: "WASHINGTON (Talon News) -- Top Democrats, including those who are running for president of the United States, praised the Massachusetts Supreme Court's decision to allow same-sex marriages in the Bay State.
Congressman Richard Gephardt (D-MO), who has accused President Bush of being allied with 'homophobic bigotry,' cautiously supported the decision of the state court."
It's funny, because of the continuous '...because they are eeevil.' theme that followsw the title. No argument. It's just assumed that this is horrible.
Congressman Richard Gephardt (D-MO), who has accused President Bush of being allied with 'homophobic bigotry,' cautiously supported the decision of the state court."
It's funny, because of the continuous '...because they are eeevil.' theme that followsw the title. No argument. It's just assumed that this is horrible.
BBC NEWS | Health | Q&A: Face transplants
BBC NEWS | Health | Q&A: Face transplants: "The Royal College of Surgeons of England has urged doctors not to carry out face transplants.
BBC News Online examines whether the procedure is likely to go ahead and what it would involve.
What is a face transplant?
A face transplant, according to the surgeons who say they could carry it out, would involve removing the face of a dead person and placing it on someone who is still alive."
O.k. I'm an organ donor. But that doesn't include my largest organ, does it?
BBC News Online examines whether the procedure is likely to go ahead and what it would involve.
What is a face transplant?
A face transplant, according to the surgeons who say they could carry it out, would involve removing the face of a dead person and placing it on someone who is still alive."
O.k. I'm an organ donor. But that doesn't include my largest organ, does it?
Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | War critics astonished as US hawk admits invasion was illegal
Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | War critics astonished as US hawk admits invasion was illegal: "International lawyers and anti-war campaigners reacted with astonishment yesterday after the influential Pentagon hawk Richard Perle conceded that the invasion of Iraq had been illegal.
In a startling break with the official White House and Downing Street lines, Mr Perle told an audience in London: 'I think in this case international law stood in the way of doing the right thing.'"
This is the guy with the charming nickname, 'Prince of Evil'.
Do a GIS (google image search) and see what I mean.
In a startling break with the official White House and Downing Street lines, Mr Perle told an audience in London: 'I think in this case international law stood in the way of doing the right thing.'"
This is the guy with the charming nickname, 'Prince of Evil'.
Do a GIS (google image search) and see what I mean.
kuro5hin.org || Captain Ledford, where are you now?
kuro5hin.org || Captain Ledford, where are you now?: "From Sun Feb 18th, 2001 to Sat Mar 23rd, 2002 Kuro5hin was host to an anonymous author who chose the nom de plume of Captain Ledford. This author serialized a set of stories in the K5 diary section that remain to this date as some of the best fiction K5 has ever seen."
Some decent fiction. It's a good story, but ignore the comments. It seems the best days of k5 are behind it.
Some decent fiction. It's a good story, but ignore the comments. It seems the best days of k5 are behind it.
AeANET : 11/19/2003 - U.S. High-Tech Industry Sheds More than One-Half Million Jobs in 2002, AeA Report Says
AeANET : 11/19/2003 - U.S. High-Tech Industry Sheds More than One-Half Million Jobs in 2002, AeA Report Says: "WASHINGTON, DC, November 19, 2003 – A study released today by AeA shows that in 2002 the U.S. high-tech industry lost 540,000 jobs, dropping from 6.5 million to 6.0 million. A preliminary look at data for 2003 shows that the decline in high-tech employment slowed considerably in 2003. The report, AeA’s annual Cyberstates 2003: A State-by-State Overview of the High-Technology Industry, details national and state trends in high-tech employment, wages, exports, and other economic indicators."
Not terribly surprising, but it is nice to see the full numbers.
Not terribly surprising, but it is nice to see the full numbers.
Key Shiites soften tone toward US | csmonitor.com
Key Shiites soften tone toward US | csmonitor.com: "The US soldiers who recently arrested members of Mr. Sadr's paramilitary army are still 'occupiers,' he says. But Iraqi supporters of the young sheikh - who rose to the world stage in July, calling for an Iranian-style theocracy - have taken note of his softer tone. The cleric who once called the Americans 'infidels' says he is now ready to work with them, spelling hope for the US-led coalition as it looks to transition to Iraqi rule. Last Friday, Sadr praised the American about-face that now favors a faster turnover of authority to the Iraqi people."
Good news, good article. From the ever-suffering Agonist.
Good news, good article. From the ever-suffering Agonist.
Wednesday, November 19, 2003
August blackout was 'preventable' - Nov. 19, 2003
August blackout was 'preventable' - Nov. 19, 2003: "WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Aug. 14 blackout that cascaded across eight U.S. states and part of Canada was largely the fault of FirstEnergy Corp. and could have been prevented, Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham said on Wednesday.
'One major conclusion of the interim report is that this blackout was largely preventable,' Abraham said in a statement accompanying release of an investigative report prepared by a U.S.-Canadian task force.
'However, the report also tells us that once the problem grew to a certain magnitude, nothing could have been done to prevent it from cascading out of control,' Abraham added."
They didn't keep trees trimmed or disaster software current and their cost-cutting helped the bottom line....and set up a quarter of the country for power loss.
'One major conclusion of the interim report is that this blackout was largely preventable,' Abraham said in a statement accompanying release of an investigative report prepared by a U.S.-Canadian task force.
'However, the report also tells us that once the problem grew to a certain magnitude, nothing could have been done to prevent it from cascading out of control,' Abraham added."
They didn't keep trees trimmed or disaster software current and their cost-cutting helped the bottom line....and set up a quarter of the country for power loss.
China Responds to U.S. Quotas on Textile Imports (washingtonpost.com)
China Responds to U.S. Quotas on Textile Imports (washingtonpost.com): "SHANGHAI, Nov. 19 -- China on Wednesday accused the United States of violating the principles of fair trade, a day after the Bush administration imposed emergency quotas to stem a surge of textile imports from the world's most populous country.
A spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce expressed 'China's strong opposition' to the Bush administration's action, asserting that it violates 'World Trade Organization principles of free trade, transparency and nondiscrimination,' according to a dispatch carried by the official New China News Agency. 'China reserves the right to lodge lawsuits to safeguard the interests of Chinese industries.' "
International trading agreements are a tough cookie to get a bite of. So now commentary, just news.
A spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce expressed 'China's strong opposition' to the Bush administration's action, asserting that it violates 'World Trade Organization principles of free trade, transparency and nondiscrimination,' according to a dispatch carried by the official New China News Agency. 'China reserves the right to lodge lawsuits to safeguard the interests of Chinese industries.' "
International trading agreements are a tough cookie to get a bite of. So now commentary, just news.
AllHipHop.com : News
AllHipHop.com : News: "'The tape they played today was something I made out of anger, stupidity and frustration when I was a teenager. I'd just broken up with my girlfriend, who was African-American, and I reacted like the angry, stupid kid I was. I hope people will take it for the foolishness that it was, not for what somebody is trying to make it into today.'"
Eminem on the block for some shiznit he put together back in the day. I can gosh-darn guarantee that something I've written will come back on my ass some day. Aah well, worrying about it aint' gonna stop me.
Eminem on the block for some shiznit he put together back in the day. I can gosh-darn guarantee that something I've written will come back on my ass some day. Aah well, worrying about it aint' gonna stop me.
AllHipHop.com : News
AllHipHop.com : News: "Sean 'P.Diddy' Combs is heading to City Hall in Manhattan today to give Mayor Bloomberg half of the $ 2 million dollars he raised for charity, by running the 2003 New York Marathon.
Combs will present the Mayor with a $1 million dollar check, which he plegded to donate to the New York City public school system."
Note: I'm pointing this out because of a slam post of P. Diddy a while back. Good for him, now find out who is making all those clothes with your name on them.
Combs will present the Mayor with a $1 million dollar check, which he plegded to donate to the New York City public school system."
Note: I'm pointing this out because of a slam post of P. Diddy a while back. Good for him, now find out who is making all those clothes with your name on them.
CRN : Daily Archives : CRN Interview: SCO's Darl McBride and Chris Sontag : 7:36 PM EST Tues., Nov. 18, 2003
CRN : Daily Archives : CRN Interview: SCO's Darl McBride and Chris Sontag : 7:36 PM EST Tues., Nov. 18, 2003: " The core business, we think that's bottomed out and there's upside now with new products coming. We haven't had a new product in our OpenServer base in years and years.
The second dial is the 2.5 million Linux servers out there today that are paired with our intellectual property in them. We have a licensed product $699, $1,399. Chris [Sontag] is driving that and that's another multi-billion-dollar revenue opportunity
The third bucket has to do with the IBM settlement. We filed that at $3 billion."
Same story, this is just sad. When a company has no product, or any real plans to develop one, but thinks they should be worth billions of dollars because of .... because basically they just think they can. If they really wanted to remove code, they would say what code it is. They won't. They don't care about that, it's a technicality. The matter is how much they can monetize that technicality.
The second dial is the 2.5 million Linux servers out there today that are paired with our intellectual property in them. We have a licensed product $699, $1,399. Chris [Sontag] is driving that and that's another multi-billion-dollar revenue opportunity
The third bucket has to do with the IBM settlement. We filed that at $3 billion."
Same story, this is just sad. When a company has no product, or any real plans to develop one, but thinks they should be worth billions of dollars because of .... because basically they just think they can. If they really wanted to remove code, they would say what code it is. They won't. They don't care about that, it's a technicality. The matter is how much they can monetize that technicality.
Free Software might provide $229,000,000,000 in value to People for Free.
InfoWorld: SCO: GPL threatens $229B software market: November 19, 2003: By : Applications: "Citing WIPO data, McBride said that the value of the worldwide software market would approach $229 billion by 2007, and that it was being threatened by the ideas behind the Free Software Foundation's GPL, the software license that governs Linux. "
This guy is such a jack-ass.
This guy is such a jack-ass.
US vows 'to use a sledgehammer to crack a walnut' - www.theage.com.au
US vows 'to use a sledgehammer to crack a walnut' - www.theage.com.au: "'This is war,' Major-General Charles Swannack, commander of the 82nd Airborne Division, based in western Iraq, said during a briefing in Baghdad. 'We're going to use a sledgehammer to crush a walnut. We're not going to prosecute this war holding one hand behind our back, we're going to use enough in our arsenal to win this fight.'
The military operations on Tuesday in the capital and central Iraq were portrayed by US military officials as an offensive designed to crush the remains of the anti-American insurgency. "
Two problems here. One, it's tough to crack a walnut with a sledgehammer and not smash the hand that is holding it. If you don't have a hand holding it, there's a good chance you'll miss. Two, didn't we try this overwhelming 'shock and awe' thing before. Didn't that lead us to where we are now?
The military operations on Tuesday in the capital and central Iraq were portrayed by US military officials as an offensive designed to crush the remains of the anti-American insurgency. "
Two problems here. One, it's tough to crack a walnut with a sledgehammer and not smash the hand that is holding it. If you don't have a hand holding it, there's a good chance you'll miss. Two, didn't we try this overwhelming 'shock and awe' thing before. Didn't that lead us to where we are now?
Click10.com - News - Police Outnumber FTAA Protesters In Some Instances
Click10.com - News - Police Outnumber FTAA Protesters In Some Instances: "MIAMI -- Police outnumbered protesters who marched into downtown Miami on Tuesday to oppose the city's bid to host the world's largest free trade area.
People on the 34-mile, three-day walk from Fort Lauderdale to Miami complained that the show of force by 300 police officers, many in full riot gear, was unnecessary for the 250 marchers, who have been peaceful since their trek began."
Nah, it's not a police state, but I'm not sure if I could slide one of my hairs between one and what we have now.
People on the 34-mile, three-day walk from Fort Lauderdale to Miami complained that the show of force by 300 police officers, many in full riot gear, was unnecessary for the 250 marchers, who have been peaceful since their trek began."
Nah, it's not a police state, but I'm not sure if I could slide one of my hairs between one and what we have now.
Case Closed
Case Closed: "OSAMA BIN LADEN and Saddam Hussein had an operational relationship from the early 1990s to 2003 that involved training in explosives and weapons of mass destruction, logistical support for terrorist attacks, al Qaeda training camps and safe haven in Iraq, and Iraqi financial support for al Qaeda--perhaps even for Mohamed Atta--according to a top secret U.S. government memorandum obtained by THE WEEKLY STANDARD. "
This is very interesting reading. There is also an investigation into how this memo got leaked to NeoCon Publishing Weekly, but we know how well this administration investigates such leaks.
This is a big deal. Keep reading.
Well, at least the bias of the reporting is intact.
One of the most interesting things to note about the 16-page memo is that it covers only a fraction of the evidence that will eventually be available to document the relationship between Iraq and al Qaeda. For one thing, both Saddam and bin Laden were desperate to keep their cooperation secret. (Remember, Iraqi intelligence used liquid paper on an internal intelligence document to conceal bin Laden's name.) For another, few people in the U.S. government are expressly looking for such links. There is no Iraq-al Qaeda equivalent of the CIA's 1,400-person Iraq Survey Group currently searching Iraq for weapons of mass destruction.
O.k. let me get this right. A super-paranoid regime is going to use liquid paper to hide its most damning relationship?
Note also, that even in all of this, there isn't a connection to 9/11. We invaded Afghanistan for Al Queda. We invaded Iraq to get the weapons. And keep them from Al Queda. Two other things of note: first, is the notice that Iraq wanted to cut ties in '99, and seems to have done so. Second, is the October 2002 part. Anyone who was watching closely knew, at that point, we were going to war regardless of what happened next. It would be time for anyone looking for all the help they can get.
This is very interesting reading. There is also an investigation into how this memo got leaked to NeoCon Publishing Weekly, but we know how well this administration investigates such leaks.
This is a big deal. Keep reading.
Well, at least the bias of the reporting is intact.
One of the most interesting things to note about the 16-page memo is that it covers only a fraction of the evidence that will eventually be available to document the relationship between Iraq and al Qaeda. For one thing, both Saddam and bin Laden were desperate to keep their cooperation secret. (Remember, Iraqi intelligence used liquid paper on an internal intelligence document to conceal bin Laden's name.) For another, few people in the U.S. government are expressly looking for such links. There is no Iraq-al Qaeda equivalent of the CIA's 1,400-person Iraq Survey Group currently searching Iraq for weapons of mass destruction.
O.k. let me get this right. A super-paranoid regime is going to use liquid paper to hide its most damning relationship?
Note also, that even in all of this, there isn't a connection to 9/11. We invaded Afghanistan for Al Queda. We invaded Iraq to get the weapons. And keep them from Al Queda. Two other things of note: first, is the notice that Iraq wanted to cut ties in '99, and seems to have done so. Second, is the October 2002 part. Anyone who was watching closely knew, at that point, we were going to war regardless of what happened next. It would be time for anyone looking for all the help they can get.
Rush Speaks! As I Was Saying About Five Weeks Ago...
Rush Speaks! As I Was Saying About Five Weeks Ago...: " I've been anticipating this moment since last Thursday - actually, since last Wednesday afternoon. Last Wednesday afternoon I was discharged from the treatment center which, by the way, was not in Tucson. We succeeded in fooling everybody on that. "
That's not the only thing you fooled everyone on. Well, fool be once, shame of you, fool be twice...not a chance, fool.
That's not the only thing you fooled everyone on. Well, fool be once, shame of you, fool be twice...not a chance, fool.
The Onion | Mom Finds Out About Blog
The Onion | Mom Finds Out About Blog: "'God, my links alone contain unlimited fodder for Mom's neuroses,' Widmar said. 'She'll have access to not only my life, but the lives of all my friends who have web sites. She'll have the names of all the places in Minneapolis where we hang out, which she can—and will—look up. With the raw materials in my blog, she could actually construct an accurate picture of who I am. This is fucking serious.'"
Nice one. My mom reads my site occasionally, although I've taken the general tactic of being obtuse enough to require comments for clarification, and posting a comment is probably just beyond her current abilities.
Nice one. My mom reads my site occasionally, although I've taken the general tactic of being obtuse enough to require comments for clarification, and posting a comment is probably just beyond her current abilities.
Tuesday, November 18, 2003
Drug Policy Alliance: 2 out 5 AmericansThink Pot is O.K. (like OH)
Drug Policy Alliance
It's good to see some more sense from my fellow Americans. This is nearly a month old...yet still potent.
My voluntary 'sin' tax will eventually make waves, just you wait.
It's good to see some more sense from my fellow Americans. This is nearly a month old...yet still potent.
My voluntary 'sin' tax will eventually make waves, just you wait.
boycott-riaa.com - Article: Mickey Mouse Turns 75 Today
boycott-riaa.com - Article: Mickey Mouse Turns 75 Today: "I went to get the newspaper today since no one else had and one article near the bottom of the page caught my eye. Mickey Mouse turns 75 on this day. The article mostly discusses Mickey’s origins and tribulations throughout his life, but there was one paragraph of particular interest.
“Mickey’s cartoons have been translated into dozens of languages. His image is recognized on every continent. And today, the mouse that spawned a $47 Billion global entertainment industry empire celebrates his 75th birthday.”"
Mickey should be free today, but he's not. Another 20 years of 'motivation' for Walt Disney the man, who is dead.
“Mickey’s cartoons have been translated into dozens of languages. His image is recognized on every continent. And today, the mouse that spawned a $47 Billion global entertainment industry empire celebrates his 75th birthday.”"
Mickey should be free today, but he's not. Another 20 years of 'motivation' for Walt Disney the man, who is dead.
Red Cross to end emergency aid programs to 50,000 Palestinian families
Red Cross to end emergency aid programs to 50,000 Palestinian families: "The international Red Cross is ending two emergency aid programs that provided food assistance to 50,000 Palestinian families, a spokesman for the aid group said Tuesday.
The decision to stop the aid at the end of the month reflected growing impatience by international aid groups, charging that Israel is in control of much of the West Bank but is not providing assistance to the Palestinian population. The Israeli military adminstration had no immediate comment."
It's tough to have 'temporary' relief efforts, but it's even tougher when they get extended for 18 months and it still isn't long enough.
The decision to stop the aid at the end of the month reflected growing impatience by international aid groups, charging that Israel is in control of much of the West Bank but is not providing assistance to the Palestinian population. The Israeli military adminstration had no immediate comment."
It's tough to have 'temporary' relief efforts, but it's even tougher when they get extended for 18 months and it still isn't long enough.
In Utah, public works project goes digital | CNET News.com
In Utah, public works project goes digital | CNET News.com: "SALT LAKE CITY--When it comes to the Internet, residents of Utah are taking matters into their own hands.
In a 21st-century twist on Roosevelt-era public works projects, Salt Lake City and 17 other Utah cities are planning to build the largest ultrahigh-speed digital network in the country. "
The only way this is possible is in states without large telecom providers. They kill such useful projects in the legislature with great abandon where I come from.
In a 21st-century twist on Roosevelt-era public works projects, Salt Lake City and 17 other Utah cities are planning to build the largest ultrahigh-speed digital network in the country. "
The only way this is possible is in states without large telecom providers. They kill such useful projects in the legislature with great abandon where I come from.
Monday, November 17, 2003
TreoCentral.com - Sprint Treo vs. Verizon Kyo 7135
TreoCentral.com - Sprint Treo 600 vs. Verizon Kyo 7135
Again, my review is coming this week. I now have good and bad things to say. Yips.
Again, my review is coming this week. I now have good and bad things to say. Yips.
Sunday, November 16, 2003
treocentral.com >> Stories >> Hardware >> Treo 600 Revealed
treocentral.com >> Stories >> Hardware >> Treo 600 Revealed: "Handspring will not bundle recording software with the device, however they will soon make the API's available for developers to write that software. Developers can also access the phone stream to record the conversation, and with the 144 MHz processor perhaps encode it as an MP3 and store it on an SD card. "
My review coming soon. This is the only major feature that I've found lacking.
And that's everything from ipod to digicam to wireless modem. In less than the palm of my hand.
My review coming soon. This is the only major feature that I've found lacking.
And that's everything from ipod to digicam to wireless modem. In less than the palm of my hand.
Desktop Linux Consortium
Desktop Linux Consortium: "The Desktop Linux ConsortiumTM is a non profit organization dedicated to the advancement of the use of Linux on the desktop.
The Consortium tries to balance the many facets of Linux desktop use, drawing members from corporations, individual enthusiasts, and from the organizations that have formed and powered the Linux community. "
Good to hear. This would be nice.
The Consortium tries to balance the many facets of Linux desktop use, drawing members from corporations, individual enthusiasts, and from the organizations that have formed and powered the Linux community. "
Good to hear. This would be nice.
Saturday, November 15, 2003
Gloria Steinem
Gloria Steinem
You run into the most interesting people while wandering around NYC.
Brunch at TJ's, is the name. Picture up soon and better links.
Hmm. not sure how well this works....
You run into the most interesting people while wandering around NYC.
Brunch at TJ's, is the name. Picture up soon and better links.
Hmm. not sure how well this works....
Friday, November 14, 2003
Pictures from Sprint: View Picture
Pictures from Sprint: View Picture
Straight from my eyes to yours. Saw this dude hanging out while running errands around Houton, TX the other day.
Straight from my eyes to yours. Saw this dude hanging out while running errands around Houton, TX the other day.
D-Nasty - Pairs Hilton Video Review
D-Nasty: "'Let me get my phone.'
Paris Hilton's first line in this magnificent post modern statement is more conditioned response than free will. Like Pavlov's doggy, she is powerless to resist the cold intrusion of the technological sprawl that devours countrysides, bathrooms and budoirs with the same unyielding hunger. McLuhan promised us a Global Village, but nowhere did he say that it would be a tax haven, and on this evening the throbbing circuitry of a connected world demands the sacrifice of a media virgin. But she is not without an advisor. In this film Ms. Hilton acts opposite Rick Solomon, media mogul, giver of corporal knowledge. Yet he is more, and in a poignant moment of self-loathing which defines the entire encounter, Solomon blasphemes the very technology upon which he has built his empire:
'Fuck your phone.'"
BTW, you want the 29MB one, not the 22MB one. Aiight?
Paris Hilton's first line in this magnificent post modern statement is more conditioned response than free will. Like Pavlov's doggy, she is powerless to resist the cold intrusion of the technological sprawl that devours countrysides, bathrooms and budoirs with the same unyielding hunger. McLuhan promised us a Global Village, but nowhere did he say that it would be a tax haven, and on this evening the throbbing circuitry of a connected world demands the sacrifice of a media virgin. But she is not without an advisor. In this film Ms. Hilton acts opposite Rick Solomon, media mogul, giver of corporal knowledge. Yet he is more, and in a poignant moment of self-loathing which defines the entire encounter, Solomon blasphemes the very technology upon which he has built his empire:
'Fuck your phone.'"
BTW, you want the 29MB one, not the 22MB one. Aiight?
Israel govt memo admits flouting ''road map''-source
Israel govt memo admits flouting ''road map''-source: "Government sources on Wednesday quoted the memorandum as saying: ''We promised the United States that we would dismantle the outposts and have not done so. That is our Achilles' heel.''
''International criticism is growing because of our lack of creative ideas for getting out of the conflict,'' it said.
Israel lacked credibility when it claimed to be fulfilling its obligations under a U.S.-backed plan for ending three years of fighting with the Palestinians, the memorandum said. "
There was a HUGE glaring hole in President Bush's 'Democracy for All' speech I mentioned here last week. It had to do with Palestinians not taking responsibility for lowering tensions in that conflict.
Like I said, HUGE glaring hole in the NeoCon worldview. They are smart folks, so one can only hope they quit lying to themselves, although the Rumsfeld post from yesterday tells you how well that is going.
''International criticism is growing because of our lack of creative ideas for getting out of the conflict,'' it said.
Israel lacked credibility when it claimed to be fulfilling its obligations under a U.S.-backed plan for ending three years of fighting with the Palestinians, the memorandum said. "
There was a HUGE glaring hole in President Bush's 'Democracy for All' speech I mentioned here last week. It had to do with Palestinians not taking responsibility for lowering tensions in that conflict.
Like I said, HUGE glaring hole in the NeoCon worldview. They are smart folks, so one can only hope they quit lying to themselves, although the Rumsfeld post from yesterday tells you how well that is going.
Thursday, November 13, 2003
Kazaa says hello to digital Bollywood | CNET News.com
Kazaa says hello to digital Bollywood | CNET News.com: "File-swapping company Sharman Networks on Thursday said it will digitally distribute a feature film from Bollywood, using its peer-to-peer application, Kazaa.
The Hindi-language film, 'Supari,' will be offered to Kazaa users for $2.99, under the terms of the agreement the Australian company has signed with P2P products distributor Altnet and Indian filmmaker Aum Creates Unlimited. "
Good to see. Although Kazaa is backed by the strangest corporate structure in media history, they are working to realize some of the potential of the Internet. This is, of course, in complete contrast to the totalitarian control freaks that run U.S. media nowadays, who spend more on lawyers than developing talent, but hey, it's their money. And since it will probably be their last, let 'em spend it however they want.
The Hindi-language film, 'Supari,' will be offered to Kazaa users for $2.99, under the terms of the agreement the Australian company has signed with P2P products distributor Altnet and Indian filmmaker Aum Creates Unlimited. "
Good to see. Although Kazaa is backed by the strangest corporate structure in media history, they are working to realize some of the potential of the Internet. This is, of course, in complete contrast to the totalitarian control freaks that run U.S. media nowadays, who spend more on lawyers than developing talent, but hey, it's their money. And since it will probably be their last, let 'em spend it however they want.
RedNova News: Scientists are Close to Creating an Artificial Organism
RedNova News: Scientists are Close to Creating an Artificial Organism: "WASHINGTON (AP) -- Scientists announced significant progress Thursday toward creating an artificial organism that one day may have uses ranging from pollution control to clean energy production.
Scientists using commercially available DNA took only two weeks to build from scratch an artificial virus with the identical genetic code of a simple virus already known to infect and kill bacterial cells."
The big news here is that Venter's Law maybe be only a few months long, rather than Moore's Law at two years.
Scientists using commercially available DNA took only two weeks to build from scratch an artificial virus with the identical genetic code of a simple virus already known to infect and kill bacterial cells."
The big news here is that Venter's Law maybe be only a few months long, rather than Moore's Law at two years.
Ocala Star Banner
Ocala Star Banner: "WASHINGTON - In the lead-up to the U.S. invasion of Iraq, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld said U.S. forces would be welcomed by the Iraqi citizenry and that Saddam Hussein had large stockpiles of chemical and biological weapons.
Now, after both statements have been shown to be either incorrect or vastly exaggerated, Rumsfeld - with the same trademark confidence that he exuded before the war - is denying that he ever made such assertions."
Oh my lord. Same as below, but with more direct quotes. This guy is more like Reagan than anyone guessed.
Now, after both statements have been shown to be either incorrect or vastly exaggerated, Rumsfeld - with the same trademark confidence that he exuded before the war - is denying that he ever made such assertions."
Oh my lord. Same as below, but with more direct quotes. This guy is more like Reagan than anyone guessed.
Lying Media Bastards: Skeletor vs. Truth
Lying Media Bastards: Skeletor vs. Truth
Rumsfeld caught in a direct lie.
NeoCons: More than meets the lie.
Rumsfeld caught in a direct lie.
NeoCons: More than meets the lie.
Conciousness: An Introduction :: Ephilosopher :: Philosophy News, Research and Philosophical Discussion
Conciousness: An Introduction :: Ephilosopher :: Philosophy News, Research and Philosophical Discussion
Post about consciousness studies. Looks like there's another one to add to the list, mainly because the approach described seems like the best way to go, nowadays.
Post about consciousness studies. Looks like there's another one to add to the list, mainly because the approach described seems like the best way to go, nowadays.
Miami New Times | miaminewtimes.com | News : Feature Myths Over Miami,Captured on South Beach, Satan later escaped. His demons and the horrible Bloody Mary
Miami New Times | miaminewtimes.com | News : Feature Myths Over Miami,Captured on South Beach, Satan later escaped. His demons and the horrible Bloody Mary are now killing people. God has fled. Avenging angels hide out in the Everglades. And oth: "Captured on South Beach, Satan later escaped. His demons and the horrible Bloody Mary are now killing people. God has fled. Avenging angels hide out in the Everglades. And other tales from children in Dade's homeless shelters. "
Naaah, this has nothing to do with the previous post....
Naaah, this has nothing to do with the previous post....
Harris Interactive | The Harris Poll - The Religious and Other Beliefs of Americans 2003
Harris Interactive | The Harris Poll - The Religious and Other Beliefs of Americans 2003: "That very large majorities of the American public, and almost all (but not all) Christians believe in God, the survival of the soul after death, miracles, heaven, the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the Virgin birth will come as no great surprise. What may be more surprising is that half of all adults believe in ghosts, almost a third believe in astrology, and more than a quarter believe in reincarnation � that they were themselves reincarnated from other people. Majorities of about two-thirds of all adults believe in hell and the devil, but hardly anybody expects that they will go to hell themselves."
Curious statistics, although without any qualifiers, these questions are so ridiculously broad that the answers don't mean much to me.
Curious, however, nonetheless. It certainly helps to see where some stereotypes come from.
Curious statistics, although without any qualifiers, these questions are so ridiculously broad that the answers don't mean much to me.
Curious, however, nonetheless. It certainly helps to see where some stereotypes come from.
Man of Steel, Woman of Kleenex
Man of Steel, Woman of Kleenex: "He's faster than a speeding bullet. He's more powerful than a locomotive. He's able to leap tall buildings at a single bound. Why can't he get a girl? "
Too bad that Smallville has pretty much blown this out of the water. Superman's power grows as he does, and all the really cool stuff doesn't show up till puberty, or something like that. Not sure how that jives with the comic books, but, uh, whatever. This is a simple smile giver, nothing more.
Too bad that Smallville has pretty much blown this out of the water. Superman's power grows as he does, and all the really cool stuff doesn't show up till puberty, or something like that. Not sure how that jives with the comic books, but, uh, whatever. This is a simple smile giver, nothing more.
The Neal Pollack Invasion
The Neal Pollack Invasion: "Ronald Reagan was not a former actor recruited by powerful Republicans to play the part of President so they could fool America into accepting a sketchy combination of charismatic Christianity and tax cuts for the wealthy as national policy. He never made flip jokes about starting a nuclear war. The country's industrial base did not collapse during his tenure. Agents of his Central Intelligence Agency did not introduce crack to African-American ghettos. By no means did he support right-wing guerilla organizations in Central America, starting terrible wars that killed thousands of people in the name of fighting Communism. His administration did not sell arms to the Iranians to fund these wars. His wife was not a control freak who regularly consulted astrologers. He did not suffer from advancing senility, allowing his administration to be taken over by an uncontrollable group of fringe nutcases. And he most certainly did not sit by exhibiting the most extreme forms of public bigotry while the most terrible virulent disease known to humankind ravaged this country's gay population."
aaah, man. No more of this? Not even a little bit?
I guess people who usually get paid to write quickly realize that just straight blogging really doesn't...umm...pay.
aaah, man. No more of this? Not even a little bit?
I guess people who usually get paid to write quickly realize that just straight blogging really doesn't...umm...pay.
Is Texas America?
Is Texas America?: "Well, sheesh. I don't know whether to warn you that because George Dubya Bush is President the whole damn country is about to be turned into Texas (a singularly horrible fate: as the country song has it: 'Lubbock on Everythang') or if I should try to stand up for us and convince the rest of the country we're not all that insane. "
The problem, Molly, is that we are a bit insane. But you get to that. Curious reading about Tejas, which I agree with about 70%, but then again, I've only known the Republican Texas, so maybe that's why I was on my way out as soon as I realized where I was.
The problem, Molly, is that we are a bit insane. But you get to that. Curious reading about Tejas, which I agree with about 70%, but then again, I've only known the Republican Texas, so maybe that's why I was on my way out as soon as I realized where I was.
The New Republic Online: Theater of the Absurd
The New Republic Online: Theater of the Absurd: "It is important to double your efforts to get your boss to S-230 on time. Fox News channel is really excited about the marathon. Britt [sic] Hume at 6 would love to open the door to all our 51 Senators walking on to the floor. The producer wants to know, will we walk in exactly at 6:02 when the show starts so we can get it live to open Britt Hume's show? Or, if not, can we give them an exact time for the walk-in start? "
Aaah, the point of the anti-filibuster. Good luck to 'em.
Aaah, the point of the anti-filibuster. Good luck to 'em.
MobileMag : Archos AV320 MP4 Player Announced - Handhelds - Mobilemag.com
MobileMag : Archos AV320 MP4 Player Announced - Handhelds - Mobilemag.com: "On the go enthusiasts are able to record their favorite video content direct from any video source, TV, or VCR. They can also quickly download and save large volumes of MPEG-4 video files acquired legally through the Internet. Once the video is saved to the Video AV300, users can play back the video either on the built-in color display or on any TV or PC in near-DVD-quality."
Ha, no they can't. The FCC is quickly making such ease of use in television illegal. This is what the 'broadcast flag' is supposed to make it impossible to do. Yes, it could be that simple, but only if we fight for our rights.
Ha, no they can't. The FCC is quickly making such ease of use in television illegal. This is what the 'broadcast flag' is supposed to make it impossible to do. Yes, it could be that simple, but only if we fight for our rights.
LA Weekly: Features: Uncensored Gore
LA Weekly: Features: Uncensored Gore: "[Gore] Vidal undoubtedly had current pols like Bush and Ashcroft in mind when he wrote his latest book, his third in two years. Inventing a Nation: Washington, Adams, Jefferson takes us deep into the psyches of the patriotic trio. And even with all of their human foibles on display � vanity, ambition, hubris, envy and insecurity � their shared and profoundly rooted commitment to building the first democratic nation on Earth comes straight to the fore."
More reading, historical context, and vitriol.
More reading, historical context, and vitriol.
Share 'True Crime,' do the time | CNET News.com
Share 'True Crime,' do the time | CNET News.com: "A forthcoming copyright bill backed by key U.S. senators would place file swappers in prison for up to three years if they have a copy of even one prerelease movie in their shared folders.
In addition to the prison term, the Artists' Rights and Theft Prevention Act would punish making such movies available on a public 'computer network' as a federal felony with a fine of up to $250,000. It would not require that any copyright infringement actually take place. "
I knew it wouldn't take that long before the specter of prison reared it's ugly head.
There are much better, simpler, economic solutions to this problem than jack-booted thugs. But hey, Hollywood loves to make a show of it.
In addition to the prison term, the Artists' Rights and Theft Prevention Act would punish making such movies available on a public 'computer network' as a federal felony with a fine of up to $250,000. It would not require that any copyright infringement actually take place. "
I knew it wouldn't take that long before the specter of prison reared it's ugly head.
There are much better, simpler, economic solutions to this problem than jack-booted thugs. But hey, Hollywood loves to make a show of it.
Patent Office Reviews Disputed Web Patent - BizReport
Patent Office Reviews Disputed Web Patent - BizReport: "In an unusual move, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is considering whether to revoke a patent that Internet experts claim could hobble Web browsing and online commerce.
The office's top patent-examination official has ordered a review of a patent that covers the ability of Web browsers to display multimedia content, the office confirmed on Thursday."
Good to see this one too. Yes, it does benefit Microsoft, but that's fine if it sets a good precedent on striking down stupid internet patents.
The office's top patent-examination official has ordered a review of a patent that covers the ability of Web browsers to display multimedia content, the office confirmed on Thursday."
Good to see this one too. Yes, it does benefit Microsoft, but that's fine if it sets a good precedent on striking down stupid internet patents.
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