Well, it just got worse. A lot worse:
Monday, November 21, 2005
Wonder if this is going to piss anyone off?
Remember a few weeks ago when I was saying that the "Cult of iPod" had gone too far?
Well, it just got worse. A lot worse:
Well, it just got worse. A lot worse:
Hubble-dwarfing telescope under development
From Wired: Astronomers are working on a huge, new, Earth-based telescope that will be 100 times more powerful than the Hubble space-based scope.
The new TMT (Thirty-Meter Telescope) will likely be placed at higher elevation in either Hawaii or Chile and will be able to peer into the origins of the universe.
This is COOL!!
The new TMT (Thirty-Meter Telescope) will likely be placed at higher elevation in either Hawaii or Chile and will be able to peer into the origins of the universe.
This is COOL!!
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Rangers-Marlins trade update
From Newberg, via Sturm: It sounds like we're getting clsoer on the Blalock & Danks for Beckett & Lowell deal.
Come on Jon! Let's get it done!
UPDATE: Nuts, I updated the wrong post. Boston stuck their big noses into the deal and screwed it up, Rangers-wise. No Beckett in the Rangers rotation. AJ Burnett, anyone?
Come on Jon! Let's get it done!
UPDATE: Nuts, I updated the wrong post. Boston stuck their big noses into the deal and screwed it up, Rangers-wise. No Beckett in the Rangers rotation. AJ Burnett, anyone?
al-Zarqawi dead?
World's most useless USB gadget?
Here's a Christmas tree you can plug into your PC's USB port. It lights up, blows Styrofoam snow, and plays Christmas tunes.
And that's it.
And that's it.
Zimbabwe to "process" uranium
Um, this can't be good news.
According to the AP, Zimbabwe's President Mugabe is saying that Zimbabwe will begin "processing" recently discovered uranium deposits in the country.
Zimbabwe has ties to both Iran and North Korea, for those of you keeping score at home.
According to the AP, Zimbabwe's President Mugabe is saying that Zimbabwe will begin "processing" recently discovered uranium deposits in the country.
Zimbabwe has ties to both Iran and North Korea, for those of you keeping score at home.
When it comes to a home, is bigger better?
An article in today's Washington Post got me thinking a bit, as it addresses a subject close to my heart: The trend towards larger homes.
We recently (July 2005) moved from the 2,000 sq ft, 3 BR 2.5 bath house that we'd lived in for 12+ years and into a 4,100 sq ft, 5BR 4B McMansion.
In comparison to the 6,000-9,000 sq ft monsters described in the WP article, ours is not so big. However, it is bigger than anything I ever figured on owning and is the biggest I've ever lived in.
Once you get past the "Can we afford it?" part (and, at 5.25% 30-year, fixed rate, we can afford it), the next question is, "Who needs this much space?"
The first answer to that is: No one "needs" this much space. That's obvious. Entire villages live in less space in other parts of the world. You'll never hear me say, "We needed a house this big." That's nonsense.
Beyond that, though, can we use this much space? And the answer is yes. There are three rooms that get very little use right now - the guest bedroom, which we will use, even if not regularly; the dining room, which probably will never get much use, but it is a decorative focal point of the house; and the media room, which will wind up being my favorite room in the house once I equip it. The other "new" rooms all get used: I use my home office daily, Robynne uses her hobby room every day, and the kids are in their play room whenever they're home.
A larger house is, in our experience, easier to keep clean. Our old house was constantly cluttered with toys, decorative items, clothing, etc. The new place is much less so.
We're not on top of each other any longer. When we're all four home now, everyone's got a bit of space and the stress level is accordingly lower.
I think we're happier since we've moved. Part of it is the list above. Part of it is the good feeling I get coming home to a nice place that I enjoy being in and am proud to own.
Looking back over this post, I get the feeling that I'm coming across as justifying our decision. I'm not, because I don't know why I'd have to. I know there are lots of people out there who say "McMansion" with derision, but I don't really understand why that is. If the argument is, "You don't need that much," then I counter with, "What do you really NEED?" Beyond a studio apartment, two changes of clothes, and a bicycle, do you really NEED anything? If the rest is WANT, rather than NEED, why are my wants any less worthy than anyone else's?
I guess this point is really what got me going regarding the WP article. While the article itself makes no outward judgments, it's perspective is, to me, pretty much aimed at getting a response. It's not news so much as it's holding a perspective up for judgment.
Well, that's the Post for you, I guess. No doubt it will be picked up by the NYT as well.
We recently (July 2005) moved from the 2,000 sq ft, 3 BR 2.5 bath house that we'd lived in for 12+ years and into a 4,100 sq ft, 5BR 4B McMansion.
In comparison to the 6,000-9,000 sq ft monsters described in the WP article, ours is not so big. However, it is bigger than anything I ever figured on owning and is the biggest I've ever lived in.
Once you get past the "Can we afford it?" part (and, at 5.25% 30-year, fixed rate, we can afford it), the next question is, "Who needs this much space?"
The first answer to that is: No one "needs" this much space. That's obvious. Entire villages live in less space in other parts of the world. You'll never hear me say, "We needed a house this big." That's nonsense.
Beyond that, though, can we use this much space? And the answer is yes. There are three rooms that get very little use right now - the guest bedroom, which we will use, even if not regularly; the dining room, which probably will never get much use, but it is a decorative focal point of the house; and the media room, which will wind up being my favorite room in the house once I equip it. The other "new" rooms all get used: I use my home office daily, Robynne uses her hobby room every day, and the kids are in their play room whenever they're home.
A larger house is, in our experience, easier to keep clean. Our old house was constantly cluttered with toys, decorative items, clothing, etc. The new place is much less so.
We're not on top of each other any longer. When we're all four home now, everyone's got a bit of space and the stress level is accordingly lower.
I think we're happier since we've moved. Part of it is the list above. Part of it is the good feeling I get coming home to a nice place that I enjoy being in and am proud to own.
Looking back over this post, I get the feeling that I'm coming across as justifying our decision. I'm not, because I don't know why I'd have to. I know there are lots of people out there who say "McMansion" with derision, but I don't really understand why that is. If the argument is, "You don't need that much," then I counter with, "What do you really NEED?" Beyond a studio apartment, two changes of clothes, and a bicycle, do you really NEED anything? If the rest is WANT, rather than NEED, why are my wants any less worthy than anyone else's?
I guess this point is really what got me going regarding the WP article. While the article itself makes no outward judgments, it's perspective is, to me, pretty much aimed at getting a response. It's not news so much as it's holding a perspective up for judgment.
Well, that's the Post for you, I guess. No doubt it will be picked up by the NYT as well.
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Next gen DVDs - Netflix declares winner
As covered here some time ago, there's a battle underway to determine the format of the next generation of DVD. Blu-Ray and HD-DVD are locked in a fight to the finish and, IMHO, it's too early to call a winner.
Well, not so, says Netflix. They've gone ahead and declared Blu-Ray the winner.
I hope they're right, as Blu-Ray is the superior format. However, I'm not going out to buy a Blu-Ray player quite yet.
Well, not so, says Netflix. They've gone ahead and declared Blu-Ray the winner.
I hope they're right, as Blu-Ray is the superior format. However, I'm not going out to buy a Blu-Ray player quite yet.
Rangers & Marlins talking trade?
There are reports floating around that the Rangers and Marlins are talking trade. The Marlins are dangling RHP Josh Beckett and 3B Mike Lowell and asking for 3B Hank Blalock and pitching prospect John Danks or Thomas Diamond.
Interesting.
Beckett is a proven young major league pitcher who has had some injury problems. Lowell is a decent defensive third baseman who hits for power but not average.
On the Rangers side, Blalock is a decent defensive third baseman who is streaky good at the plate. His MO has been to start fast offenseively, but his production has fallen off as the season goes on each of the last 3 years. Danks and Diamond are two thirds (Edison Volquez is the third) of the DVD triumverate who have been dubbed "The Future of the Franchise". Both are top pitching prospects who appear headed for major league stardom, although neither have made it yet and neither are "guaranteed" to do so.
From a contract perspective, Blalock is cheap and both Danks and Diamond are still in Double A. Beckett is arbitration eligible and Lowell has a monster contract.
I say do it. Diamond is probably a little further from the bigs, so I guess he's the one who's best to go, but either way, I say pull the trigger.
Stay tuned.
UPDATE: Ah, CRAP! Beckett and Lowell are headed to Boston for Hanley Ramirez, a minor league pitcher, and a player to be named later. I really thought this was going to happen for the Rangers. Oh well. NEXT!
Interesting.
Beckett is a proven young major league pitcher who has had some injury problems. Lowell is a decent defensive third baseman who hits for power but not average.
On the Rangers side, Blalock is a decent defensive third baseman who is streaky good at the plate. His MO has been to start fast offenseively, but his production has fallen off as the season goes on each of the last 3 years. Danks and Diamond are two thirds (Edison Volquez is the third) of the DVD triumverate who have been dubbed "The Future of the Franchise". Both are top pitching prospects who appear headed for major league stardom, although neither have made it yet and neither are "guaranteed" to do so.
From a contract perspective, Blalock is cheap and both Danks and Diamond are still in Double A. Beckett is arbitration eligible and Lowell has a monster contract.
I say do it. Diamond is probably a little further from the bigs, so I guess he's the one who's best to go, but either way, I say pull the trigger.
Stay tuned.
UPDATE: Ah, CRAP! Beckett and Lowell are headed to Boston for Hanley Ramirez, a minor league pitcher, and a player to be named later. I really thought this was going to happen for the Rangers. Oh well. NEXT!
Football preview - "Better-late-than-never" edition
Sorry gang. I was so excited about the opening of the new Harry Potter movie that I never got around to the weekly staple. Let's not waste any more time.
Colleges
Fresno St @ USC - A ranked opponent for the Trojans this late in the year. They've also got UCLA down the road. One might think this is a gutsy move on Pete Carroll's part. It may be, but it's also smart. His team should have little trouble with either opponent, and these games will keep the Trojans sharp. As long as there are no major injuries, this is a great strategy.
Alabama @ Auburn - The biggest thing in Alabama since the Emancipation Proclamation, this is always fun to watch. I think the rivalry has lost something since it left Birmingham and went home-and-home (are you listening, Dallas City Council - don't make the same mistake with Texas-OU). Alabama is a 7 point dog, which is rather surprising when you consider that they were undefeated and ranked #3 one week ago. Alabama can play defense, but can they play offense? I've been an Auburn fan since the Pat Dye-Bo Jackson days, so I'm going that way.
VA Tech @ Virginia - The last time the Hokies took the field, they showed their a** to the nation against Miami. Does Marcus Vick bounce back from the worst performance of his career, or does he spiral downhill? I think Beamer gets his team back together and they win out.
Penn St @ Michigan St - I hear that this used to be an important game. When was that? Two Midwest land-grant schools going at it. I like both teams' uniforms, so I guess there's that. I'm just ready for someone to tap Joe Paterno on the shoulder and say to him, "Dude, you're like a hundred years old. Do some ads for denture adhesive and give up the football."
Oklahoma @ Texas Tech - This is the Game of the Week for me. Oklahoma is getting seven and a half, but I'm thinking they win outright. I think Stoops has the wheels back on. Look out for the Sooners again next year. And look out, Red Raiders. The fury of Sooner Nation descends on Lubbock today.
Oklahoma St @ Baylor - This is worth mentioning just because Baylor is a two and a half point favorite against a Big 12 team. Anyone care to guess when that happened last? I don't know either. Maybe never. I like whats going on in Waco (never thought I'd say that). Go Baptists!
Boston University vs. the ghost of Paul Lewis - After his big flameout with the Patriots in 1987, I wonder what happened to the all-time leading Terrier rusher? Any news?
Pros
Colts @ Bengals - Here's your NFL Game of the Week. This is a good sign of how nutty the NFL is these days. Peyton showed a little something against the Pats. The Colts defense is pretty darn good. I'm pulling for Palmer, Johnson, and Co, despite their horrible uniforms (who's responsible for that, btw - they look like a junior college team), but I think the Colts go to 10-0.
Eagles @ Giants - How will the Eagles react to the last-minute loss to the Cowboys? We may look back on that game as a turning point for both teams. The Eagles have got to show something this week, or I think it's over for them. The deck is stacked against them with McNabb finally on the bench. Steve Sanderlin took offense at my description of Eagles fans as "the worst in the NFL" last week. Sorry Steve. It's going to be tough to get used to, but I think you'll have some time to practice. Giants by a bunch.
Oakland @ Washington - The two most schizophrenic teams in the league, this one is impossible for me to call. I think my father-in-law, the rabid Raiders fan (is there any other kind) has a rare happy weekend. But who the heck knows?
New Orleans @ New England - That's a long way to go to get your a** handed to you.
Vikings @ Packers - THIS is your MNF match-up? I bet ABC is wishing they had the freedom to mix up the schedule a bit. Talk about a tough ad sell. It will be nice to get to bed early on Monday night for a change.
Lions @ Cowboys - The only "easy" game left on the Cowboys schedule. The Pear-Shaped One has gone out of his way to prevent the team from taking Detroit lightly. The Cowboys should handle the not-quite-there Lions with no problem.
Comedic Value Game of the Week - Again, a bunch to choose from. I think I'll go with Phoenix @ St. Louis. For me, it's still the St. Louis Cardinals vs. the Los Angeles Rams, but that's just me showing my age. Who do you think the broadcast team will be? I'd like to see Skip Bayless and Mushmouth from "Fat Albert" in the booth, but they might be too high profile for this one.
Go (your team here)!
Colleges
Fresno St @ USC - A ranked opponent for the Trojans this late in the year. They've also got UCLA down the road. One might think this is a gutsy move on Pete Carroll's part. It may be, but it's also smart. His team should have little trouble with either opponent, and these games will keep the Trojans sharp. As long as there are no major injuries, this is a great strategy.
Alabama @ Auburn - The biggest thing in Alabama since the Emancipation Proclamation, this is always fun to watch. I think the rivalry has lost something since it left Birmingham and went home-and-home (are you listening, Dallas City Council - don't make the same mistake with Texas-OU). Alabama is a 7 point dog, which is rather surprising when you consider that they were undefeated and ranked #3 one week ago. Alabama can play defense, but can they play offense? I've been an Auburn fan since the Pat Dye-Bo Jackson days, so I'm going that way.
VA Tech @ Virginia - The last time the Hokies took the field, they showed their a** to the nation against Miami. Does Marcus Vick bounce back from the worst performance of his career, or does he spiral downhill? I think Beamer gets his team back together and they win out.
Penn St @ Michigan St - I hear that this used to be an important game. When was that? Two Midwest land-grant schools going at it. I like both teams' uniforms, so I guess there's that. I'm just ready for someone to tap Joe Paterno on the shoulder and say to him, "Dude, you're like a hundred years old. Do some ads for denture adhesive and give up the football."
Oklahoma @ Texas Tech - This is the Game of the Week for me. Oklahoma is getting seven and a half, but I'm thinking they win outright. I think Stoops has the wheels back on. Look out for the Sooners again next year. And look out, Red Raiders. The fury of Sooner Nation descends on Lubbock today.
Oklahoma St @ Baylor - This is worth mentioning just because Baylor is a two and a half point favorite against a Big 12 team. Anyone care to guess when that happened last? I don't know either. Maybe never. I like whats going on in Waco (never thought I'd say that). Go Baptists!
Boston University vs. the ghost of Paul Lewis - After his big flameout with the Patriots in 1987, I wonder what happened to the all-time leading Terrier rusher? Any news?
Pros
Colts @ Bengals - Here's your NFL Game of the Week. This is a good sign of how nutty the NFL is these days. Peyton showed a little something against the Pats. The Colts defense is pretty darn good. I'm pulling for Palmer, Johnson, and Co, despite their horrible uniforms (who's responsible for that, btw - they look like a junior college team), but I think the Colts go to 10-0.
Eagles @ Giants - How will the Eagles react to the last-minute loss to the Cowboys? We may look back on that game as a turning point for both teams. The Eagles have got to show something this week, or I think it's over for them. The deck is stacked against them with McNabb finally on the bench. Steve Sanderlin took offense at my description of Eagles fans as "the worst in the NFL" last week. Sorry Steve. It's going to be tough to get used to, but I think you'll have some time to practice. Giants by a bunch.
Oakland @ Washington - The two most schizophrenic teams in the league, this one is impossible for me to call. I think my father-in-law, the rabid Raiders fan (is there any other kind) has a rare happy weekend. But who the heck knows?
New Orleans @ New England - That's a long way to go to get your a** handed to you.
Vikings @ Packers - THIS is your MNF match-up? I bet ABC is wishing they had the freedom to mix up the schedule a bit. Talk about a tough ad sell. It will be nice to get to bed early on Monday night for a change.
Lions @ Cowboys - The only "easy" game left on the Cowboys schedule. The Pear-Shaped One has gone out of his way to prevent the team from taking Detroit lightly. The Cowboys should handle the not-quite-there Lions with no problem.
Comedic Value Game of the Week - Again, a bunch to choose from. I think I'll go with Phoenix @ St. Louis. For me, it's still the St. Louis Cardinals vs. the Los Angeles Rams, but that's just me showing my age. Who do you think the broadcast team will be? I'd like to see Skip Bayless and Mushmouth from "Fat Albert" in the booth, but they might be too high profile for this one.
Go (your team here)!
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Movie News: Heder and Ferrell as figure skaters
Ain't It Cool tells us that Jon Heder (of Napoleon Dynamite) and Will Ferrell (of Anchorman and many other classics) are signed to star in Ben Stiller's new comedy, Blades of Glory.
They will portray figure skaters banned from competition who come back to compete in pairs skating.
This has potential genius written all over it.
They will portray figure skaters banned from competition who come back to compete in pairs skating.
This has potential genius written all over it.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Who should own the Internet - Round 4
And so it ends, it seems. The agreement reached in Tunis on Tuesday and reported here (among many other places) has left the Internet root servers firmly in the control of the US.
The "Internet Governance Forum" outlined in the agreement will have no real power - it will simply be a place to discuss theory and issues in the abstract.
It's nice to see that sanity broke out in the international arena for a change. Multinational control of the Internet root service would have led to confusion at best, serious damage to the Internet at worst. And the UN has a great deal to sort out before it should be given responsibility for so vital a resource.
The "Internet Governance Forum" outlined in the agreement will have no real power - it will simply be a place to discuss theory and issues in the abstract.
It's nice to see that sanity broke out in the international arena for a change. Multinational control of the Internet root service would have led to confusion at best, serious damage to the Internet at worst. And the UN has a great deal to sort out before it should be given responsibility for so vital a resource.
Another blog worth adding to your blogroll
Ray Ozzie, of Lotus Notes and Groove Networks fame, now with Microsoft, is blogging. His thoughts are worth reading.
Who should own the Internet - Round 3
According to The Washington Times, representatives at WSIS voted yesterday to leave oversight of the Internet in US hands. The group voted to create a new international forum to discuss Internet issues, but it will have no policy-making power.
ICANN and the Dept of Commerce currently control the Internet root servers and top-level domains. The proposed new forum would not change that arrangement at all.
This sounds like exactly what the US wanted. Rep. John Doolittle, R-CA, the House of Representatives' leader on this issue, remains skeptical, however. He thinks that the UN's goal is still, "...to wrest control of the Internet."
Stay tuned.
UPDATE: The BBC has the story too. This seems to make the WSIS rather anti-climactic, but CIT will stay on it for you.
ICANN and the Dept of Commerce currently control the Internet root servers and top-level domains. The proposed new forum would not change that arrangement at all.
This sounds like exactly what the US wanted. Rep. John Doolittle, R-CA, the House of Representatives' leader on this issue, remains skeptical, however. He thinks that the UN's goal is still, "...to wrest control of the Internet."
Stay tuned.
UPDATE: The BBC has the story too. This seems to make the WSIS rather anti-climactic, but CIT will stay on it for you.
Big sellers for Xmas, NOT
Why would anyone want pee and poo plush toys? Those Euros are getting stranger all the time.
The sound effects are not too appealing either.
The sound effects are not too appealing either.
Who should own the Internet - Wired preview
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Who should own the Internet - Round 2
Continuing our CIT coverage of this important issue, this from CIT correspondent organization InternetNews.com:
The US House of Representatives will vote tonight on a resolution to maintain control over ICANN and the Internet root servers. While the resolution will not be binding, it will, if passed, send a very clear message to the UN and its supporters that the US will continue to manage the Internet very well without your help, thank you very much.
Go House!
More news as it is made. Stay tuned.
The US House of Representatives will vote tonight on a resolution to maintain control over ICANN and the Internet root servers. While the resolution will not be binding, it will, if passed, send a very clear message to the UN and its supporters that the US will continue to manage the Internet very well without your help, thank you very much.
Go House!
More news as it is made. Stay tuned.
Kazakhs pissed over Borat
Apparently, Kazakhstan has no official sense of humor.
Kazakhstan is threatening to sue Sacha Baron Cohen, the genius creator of Da Ali G Show and, more infuriating to the Kazakhs, the greatest character in the history of TV, Borat.
If you've never seen this (where have you been hiding?), Borat is supposed to be the most successful television news personality in Kazakhstan. He is featured on Da Ali G Show venturing into the West and recording his adventures with Americans and Brits for Kazakh television. It's pure television gold.
It seems that Cohen hosted the MTV Europe Music Awards as Borat, and this was the straw that broke the Kazakh's back.
Kazakh Foreign Ministry spokesman Yerzhan Ashykbayev told a press conference that Cohen/Borat is "...serving someone's political order designed to present Kazakhstan and its people in a derogatory way."
I guess the lesson is: Never overestimate the Central Asian sense of humor.
Kazakhstan is threatening to sue Sacha Baron Cohen, the genius creator of Da Ali G Show and, more infuriating to the Kazakhs, the greatest character in the history of TV, Borat.
If you've never seen this (where have you been hiding?), Borat is supposed to be the most successful television news personality in Kazakhstan. He is featured on Da Ali G Show venturing into the West and recording his adventures with Americans and Brits for Kazakh television. It's pure television gold.
It seems that Cohen hosted the MTV Europe Music Awards as Borat, and this was the straw that broke the Kazakh's back.
Kazakh Foreign Ministry spokesman Yerzhan Ashykbayev told a press conference that Cohen/Borat is "...serving someone's political order designed to present Kazakhstan and its people in a derogatory way."
I guess the lesson is: Never overestimate the Central Asian sense of humor.
Making the world safe for (from?) karoke
The greatest advancement in karoke technology in the history of ever: The sound-proof microphone.
I know one family that needs this invention desperately. If you were there on Halloween, you know what I'm talking about.
I know one family that needs this invention desperately. If you were there on Halloween, you know what I'm talking about.
A little perspective on Cowboys-Eagles
Now that I've had a bit of time to digest last night's game, I'd like to weigh in with a few additional HSOs (that's "Hot Sports Opinions" for those of you who didn't know):
1. "The Cowboys should not feel very good about this one"
This was my quote in last night's post. I think I need to temper that a bit. It was a win in Philadelphia, on Monday night. You have to feel good about that. The defense did not quit, and you have to feel good about that. They refused to let the Eagles put them away, and managed to stay in the game until late. All good. The Cowboys should feel good about this one for a moment. However, the moment is over.
2. Roy Williams
Roy Williams started the season about like he played last year - not well. He got torched on pass coverage regularly. His lack of speed was exploited successfully by Washington in their come-from-behind, MNF, on-the-road shocker of the Cowboys. He wasn't tackling well and just seemed lost. Well, no more. Williams has bounced back and has had about three excellent games in a row. He's making plays, tackling like a madman, just generally flying around. He's doing what the Cowboys drafted him to do, and it's fun to watch. Keep it up, Roy!
3. Bledsoe
He made another bone-headed play by throwing an interception while being sacked, and he looked a bit like the immobile geezer at times, but he came thru when he needed to. He puts so little visible effort into these bullets and bombs that its a bit deceptive. He looks like he's playing catch with a little kid, but then the ball flys 40 yards or at 120 mph. Unbelievable. It was great to see him complete passes to just about everyone last night, esp since the Eagles defense kept him in check for most of the game. He found it when he needed to.
4. Parcells
The team won in spite of him last night. I'll cut him slack since he planted his younger brother over the weekend. However, I wonder what the papers and radio shows would be saying if that 3-runs-and-out final offensive series had cost them the game.
5. Donovan McNabb
Is he taking the "tough-guy" bit too far? I think so. For most of the season, he's been playing through the kind of pain that would probably kill the average man. It clearly got the best of him late last night, but it was obvious (and has been obvious) that he's not right just by the number of over- and under-thrown balls. It seems hard to believe that Mike McMahon or Koy Detmer is a better choice for the Eagles, but it seems clear that McNabb can't go on as is.
6. Eagles fans
The worst fans in the US, and only marginally less obnoxious than English football hooligans, it's always a pleasure to see sports doom and misfortune hit the City of Brotherly Shove. A quick sampling of the Philly media this morning indicates the suicide hotlines will be busy today.
So now it's on to the only relatively easy game left on the schedule - Detroit on Sunday at noon. A playoff team should have no trouble with the Lions, so we'll see. After that, the road gets substantially harder.
1. "The Cowboys should not feel very good about this one"
This was my quote in last night's post. I think I need to temper that a bit. It was a win in Philadelphia, on Monday night. You have to feel good about that. The defense did not quit, and you have to feel good about that. They refused to let the Eagles put them away, and managed to stay in the game until late. All good. The Cowboys should feel good about this one for a moment. However, the moment is over.
2. Roy Williams
Roy Williams started the season about like he played last year - not well. He got torched on pass coverage regularly. His lack of speed was exploited successfully by Washington in their come-from-behind, MNF, on-the-road shocker of the Cowboys. He wasn't tackling well and just seemed lost. Well, no more. Williams has bounced back and has had about three excellent games in a row. He's making plays, tackling like a madman, just generally flying around. He's doing what the Cowboys drafted him to do, and it's fun to watch. Keep it up, Roy!
3. Bledsoe
He made another bone-headed play by throwing an interception while being sacked, and he looked a bit like the immobile geezer at times, but he came thru when he needed to. He puts so little visible effort into these bullets and bombs that its a bit deceptive. He looks like he's playing catch with a little kid, but then the ball flys 40 yards or at 120 mph. Unbelievable. It was great to see him complete passes to just about everyone last night, esp since the Eagles defense kept him in check for most of the game. He found it when he needed to.
4. Parcells
The team won in spite of him last night. I'll cut him slack since he planted his younger brother over the weekend. However, I wonder what the papers and radio shows would be saying if that 3-runs-and-out final offensive series had cost them the game.
5. Donovan McNabb
Is he taking the "tough-guy" bit too far? I think so. For most of the season, he's been playing through the kind of pain that would probably kill the average man. It clearly got the best of him late last night, but it was obvious (and has been obvious) that he's not right just by the number of over- and under-thrown balls. It seems hard to believe that Mike McMahon or Koy Detmer is a better choice for the Eagles, but it seems clear that McNabb can't go on as is.
6. Eagles fans
The worst fans in the US, and only marginally less obnoxious than English football hooligans, it's always a pleasure to see sports doom and misfortune hit the City of Brotherly Shove. A quick sampling of the Philly media this morning indicates the suicide hotlines will be busy today.
So now it's on to the only relatively easy game left on the schedule - Detroit on Sunday at noon. A playoff team should have no trouble with the Lions, so we'll see. After that, the road gets substantially harder.
Salmon soda
Jones Soda Co of Seattle is releasing salmon-flavored soda in time for Thanksgiving.
You can get the soda as part of a $13 "regional holiday pack" that also includes bottles of turkey and gravy soda, corn on the cob soda, broccoli soda, and pecan pie soda.
Lucky me - I'm going to be in Seattle next week, so I'll be able to pick up a "holiday pack" and make all of our Thanksgiving guests sick.
People actually BUY this stuff?
You can get the soda as part of a $13 "regional holiday pack" that also includes bottles of turkey and gravy soda, corn on the cob soda, broccoli soda, and pecan pie soda.
Lucky me - I'm going to be in Seattle next week, so I'll be able to pick up a "holiday pack" and make all of our Thanksgiving guests sick.
People actually BUY this stuff?
Bomb explodes outside KFC in Karachi
A powerful car bomb exploded outside a KFC restaurant in Pakistan's largest city, Karachi, this morning, killing at least 3 people.
Two things leapt into my mind immediately upon reading this:
1. There's KFC in Karachi, Pakistan? Why is this the kind of crap we export to the Islamic world?
2. Apparently, AQ was not involved. Instead, a seperatist group from Baluchistan (one of the semi-autonomous Pakistani provinces along the border with Afghanistan) has claimed responsibility.
There's no shortage of groups who oppose Pakistani President Musharraf, which was probably the perspective of the Baluchistan National Army (the group claiming responsibility).
Two things leapt into my mind immediately upon reading this:
1. There's KFC in Karachi, Pakistan? Why is this the kind of crap we export to the Islamic world?
2. Apparently, AQ was not involved. Instead, a seperatist group from Baluchistan (one of the semi-autonomous Pakistani provinces along the border with Afghanistan) has claimed responsibility.
There's no shortage of groups who oppose Pakistani President Musharraf, which was probably the perspective of the Baluchistan National Army (the group claiming responsibility).
Who should own the Internet - Round 1
This week's UN-sponsored World Summit on the Information Society promises to be interesting in a high-geek-factor way. Regardless of how propeller-headish the subject is, the outcome of this conference could potentially have a dramatic impact on the Internet we know and love.
As previously mentioned here, most of the rest of the world is not too crazy about the amount of control the US has over the Internet. While I can see their point, there are two compelling factors that cause me to not share their opinion:
1. The US paid for and did the original R&D that led to the Internet.
2. The US has been a pretty decent steward of the Internet, far better (IMHO) than some enlightened regime like China, Iran, North Korea, etc.
Our massive news staff here at CIT (ooh, my own acronym) will be keeping an eye on the results of the summit. Stay tuned.
As previously mentioned here, most of the rest of the world is not too crazy about the amount of control the US has over the Internet. While I can see their point, there are two compelling factors that cause me to not share their opinion:
1. The US paid for and did the original R&D that led to the Internet.
2. The US has been a pretty decent steward of the Internet, far better (IMHO) than some enlightened regime like China, Iran, North Korea, etc.
Our massive news staff here at CIT (ooh, my own acronym) will be keeping an eye on the results of the summit. Stay tuned.
American League MVGP - Gay-Rod
Cursed to First has a nice, to-the-point post regarding your AL Most Valuable Gay Player. Go check it out.
Can't you just feel the positive vibes emanating from the Hub of New England?
Monday, November 14, 2005
You gotta score points to win in the NFL
There will be all kinds of analysis of Dallas 21 Philadelphia 20 in coming days. I have two things to say right now, 30 seconds after Akers' 60 yard fg attempt fell short:
1. You gotta score points. The Eagles dominated the game, but the scoreboard didn't show it. You can't settle for field goals. You gotta put teams away when you get the opportunity. The Cowboys have learned this lesson the hard way several times this season. It was nice to see them on the other end of it for a change.
2. Getting conservative can kill you. Fortunately, the Pear-Shaped One didn't cost the Cowboys the game, but it was close. With just more than a minute left and the Eagles out of time-outs, a Cowboys' first down would have ended the game. The Cowboys were facing 3rd and 6 or 7, and His Massiveness decided to run the ball for the third straight play. They haven't run the ball worth a flip all night, but there goes Marion Barber up the middle for about 4 and the Cowboys have to punt. They got away with it, but it was a near thing.
A win is a win, and as has been pointed out here before, "how" does not matter. "How many" is the only question that's worth asking. Still, the Cowboys should not feel terribly good about this one.
1. You gotta score points. The Eagles dominated the game, but the scoreboard didn't show it. You can't settle for field goals. You gotta put teams away when you get the opportunity. The Cowboys have learned this lesson the hard way several times this season. It was nice to see them on the other end of it for a change.
2. Getting conservative can kill you. Fortunately, the Pear-Shaped One didn't cost the Cowboys the game, but it was close. With just more than a minute left and the Eagles out of time-outs, a Cowboys' first down would have ended the game. The Cowboys were facing 3rd and 6 or 7, and His Massiveness decided to run the ball for the third straight play. They haven't run the ball worth a flip all night, but there goes Marion Barber up the middle for about 4 and the Cowboys have to punt. They got away with it, but it was a near thing.
A win is a win, and as has been pointed out here before, "how" does not matter. "How many" is the only question that's worth asking. Still, the Cowboys should not feel terribly good about this one.
Atlantic tropical weather season ain't over yet
Tropical depression #27 is firing up in the southeastern Caribbean. According to StormTrack, it's entirely possible that this storm has already achieved tropical storm intensity, but the NHC is waiting to see more organization before they call it TS Gamma.
This year has been one for the tropical weather books in every way imaginable.
UPDATE: TD 27 may or may not make it to TS status. We should know by the end of the day today (Wed).
UPDATE UPDATE: As of Wed afternoon, it looks like TD 27 is going bye-bye. Keep your fingers crossed, we may be done for this year.
TRIPLE UPDATE: Well, so much for that. TD 27 turned into TS Gamma, clobbered Centeral America (killing several), appeared to be heading towards Florida, and has now turned a bit further right and is headed out into the Caribbean. Maybe we're done now.
This year has been one for the tropical weather books in every way imaginable.
UPDATE: TD 27 may or may not make it to TS status. We should know by the end of the day today (Wed).
UPDATE UPDATE: As of Wed afternoon, it looks like TD 27 is going bye-bye. Keep your fingers crossed, we may be done for this year.
TRIPLE UPDATE: Well, so much for that. TD 27 turned into TS Gamma, clobbered Centeral America (killing several), appeared to be heading towards Florida, and has now turned a bit further right and is headed out into the Caribbean. Maybe we're done now.
Maybe the VR gizmo we've been waiting for
Virtual reality has been an elusive technology for quite a while. We've all seen Hollywood's take on it - The Matrix is probably the best vision of the possibilities of virtual reality. Entire computer-driven cities, complete immersion into the scenario, real interaction with other avatars or components of the application, etc.
In reality (sorry), VR has been a disappointment so far. The very best VR systems consist of enormous helmets with an interactive glove or two. You're visually there, but there's no other sensation available - no movement, limited interaction, rudimentary sounds, etc.
From Wired's Gear Factor blog today, here's a "human hamster ball" that acts like a giant, stand-inside trackball. It allows the VR participant to navigate through the virtual world in a way that resembles reality. The VR images are projected on the inside of the ball, and the participant walks or runs through the scene. Those movements are input into the system via the "hamster ball" and the scene moves accordingly.
While its currently well out of reach at $100,000 a pop, this is an interesting development that offers all kinds of possibilities. Definitely worth keeping an eye on.
In reality (sorry), VR has been a disappointment so far. The very best VR systems consist of enormous helmets with an interactive glove or two. You're visually there, but there's no other sensation available - no movement, limited interaction, rudimentary sounds, etc.
From Wired's Gear Factor blog today, here's a "human hamster ball" that acts like a giant, stand-inside trackball. It allows the VR participant to navigate through the virtual world in a way that resembles reality. The VR images are projected on the inside of the ball, and the participant walks or runs through the scene. Those movements are input into the system via the "hamster ball" and the scene moves accordingly.
While its currently well out of reach at $100,000 a pop, this is an interesting development that offers all kinds of possibilities. Definitely worth keeping an eye on.
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Al Qaeda getting blasted in Muslim world
This certainly seems like good news: An article in the online edition of a Scots newspaper talks about "Al Qaeda on defensive as bombs begin to backfire".
It seems pretty clear to me that AQ has found it increasingly difficult to operate in the US (I know that sounds like hubris, but it has been 4+ years - sure seems like they would if they could, right?), Western Europe, and the rest of the non-Islamic world. If it's going to run operations, recent history seems to indicate it's left to the Muslim world, where AQ still finds some support and freedom of movement. However, this strategy, implemented without the discipline of only targeting truly Western interests, can alienate the very population in who's name the organization claims to fight.
AQ seems to be nothing like the shadowy and outrageously successful force it was prior to September 11, 2001. Improved security, improved intelligence, an environment that more successfully harasses illegal activity, and attrition of members and leaders have all helped the West get a bit of a leg up.
That's not to say that the danger has passed - it has not. That's also not to say that AQ won't sort itself out and return to it's previous stature, because it may very well. It does, however, mean that it is not impossible to defeat.
It seems pretty clear to me that AQ has found it increasingly difficult to operate in the US (I know that sounds like hubris, but it has been 4+ years - sure seems like they would if they could, right?), Western Europe, and the rest of the non-Islamic world. If it's going to run operations, recent history seems to indicate it's left to the Muslim world, where AQ still finds some support and freedom of movement. However, this strategy, implemented without the discipline of only targeting truly Western interests, can alienate the very population in who's name the organization claims to fight.
AQ seems to be nothing like the shadowy and outrageously successful force it was prior to September 11, 2001. Improved security, improved intelligence, an environment that more successfully harasses illegal activity, and attrition of members and leaders have all helped the West get a bit of a leg up.
That's not to say that the danger has passed - it has not. That's also not to say that AQ won't sort itself out and return to it's previous stature, because it may very well. It does, however, mean that it is not impossible to defeat.
They named a LEMUR after Cleese?
While I'm sure this was done with all the proper sense of tribute and whatnot, it certainly seems like John Cleese has contributed to the human experience enough to warrant something more than a lemur, doesn't it?
Perhaps a cheese shop, a mention in The Short History of World War II, a cabinet position, or, at the very least, a "Black Knight Toll Bridge" over some loch or firth or something?
Perhaps a cheese shop, a mention in The Short History of World War II, a cabinet position, or, at the very least, a "Black Knight Toll Bridge" over some loch or firth or something?
Piracy in Somali waters
Is it just me, or does this sound like "the shores of Tripoli" all over again?
As mentioned here last week, and all over the media recently, piracy off the coast of Somalia is skyrocketing. The current theory is that there is one or more "mother ships" running around, launching small-boat attacks on merchant and cruise ships in the area and taking their prizes into Somali territorial waters. And, as we all know by now, Somalia has not had a working government or any type of law enforcement for about 15 years.
These guys in no way resemble Captain Blood or Jack Sparrow. There's no romanticizing of their exploits to be done. Instead, it will take an international effort led by the major maritime powers to put an end to this lunacy. Better yet, some form of order will be brought to Somalia and the Somalis can stomp it out themselves.
As long as I'm dreaming, I wish I had a 1969 GTO Judge.
As mentioned here last week, and all over the media recently, piracy off the coast of Somalia is skyrocketing. The current theory is that there is one or more "mother ships" running around, launching small-boat attacks on merchant and cruise ships in the area and taking their prizes into Somali territorial waters. And, as we all know by now, Somalia has not had a working government or any type of law enforcement for about 15 years.
These guys in no way resemble Captain Blood or Jack Sparrow. There's no romanticizing of their exploits to be done. Instead, it will take an international effort led by the major maritime powers to put an end to this lunacy. Better yet, some form of order will be brought to Somalia and the Somalis can stomp it out themselves.
As long as I'm dreaming, I wish I had a 1969 GTO Judge.
Election results from Afghanistan published
The final vote totals and election victors have been announced in Afghanistan. It took a while to certify everything, due to vigorous checking for fraud. In fact, some fraud was found and several candidates had their "victories" stripped from them.
As usual, this sort of thing doesn't get a lot of ink, but we should stop for a moment and consider how far Afghanistan has come in 4 years. Back in 2001, the Taliban was well on its way to destroying the country and it's artifacts (Buddhas at Bamiyan, anyone?) while completely ignoring the outcry of almost the entire world. Today, the UN signs off on free elections.
This serves as a reminder that it's not all bad news.
As usual, this sort of thing doesn't get a lot of ink, but we should stop for a moment and consider how far Afghanistan has come in 4 years. Back in 2001, the Taliban was well on its way to destroying the country and it's artifacts (Buddhas at Bamiyan, anyone?) while completely ignoring the outcry of almost the entire world. Today, the UN signs off on free elections.
This serves as a reminder that it's not all bad news.
"Sept 11 was an inside job" says BYU prof
See what tenure gets you? The ability to spout off all kinds of ridiculous crap and not get fired for it.
Prof Steven Jones, a physics professor at BYU, says that the hijacked planes were merely a diversion, Muslims likely were not involved, and it was pre-positioned explosives that brought down the Twin Towers and 7 World Trade Center.
The power of speech has left me. Please read the article from the Deseret News for yourself and draw your own conclusions.
Prof Steven Jones, a physics professor at BYU, says that the hijacked planes were merely a diversion, Muslims likely were not involved, and it was pre-positioned explosives that brought down the Twin Towers and 7 World Trade Center.
The power of speech has left me. Please read the article from the Deseret News for yourself and draw your own conclusions.
Friday, November 11, 2005
I have GOT to have one of these!
Forget the flying car. Cross off the food embossers. THIS is what I want for my next birthday! More photos here.
2008 Beijing Olympic mascots trigger acid flashbacks
The Beijing Olympic Committee unveiled the five mascots for the 2008 Summer Games today. They resemble Chinese Teletubbies and will be responsible for more stoner nightmares than Tammy Faye Bakker.
Another tech remember when?
Here's a 500 kb (yes, that's KILObyte) hard drive, circa 1975. It took "days" to format.
Compare that to the 20 GIGAbyte hard drive you have in your iPod.
Compare that to the 20 GIGAbyte hard drive you have in your iPod.
Dang it! I really thought this would work!
According to a study done at MIT (where apparently ANYTHING can get funded), aluminum foil hats do not block mind-control rays.
Crap! Now I gotta come up with Plan B. How about meat helmets?
Crap! Now I gotta come up with Plan B. How about meat helmets?
Microsoft news of the day
Microsoft has announced that Beta 1 of the new Office 12 suite will be available in 2 to 3 weeks.
Beta 1 is generally a very rough version of the product with many unfinished features and bugs to be expected. Beta 1 testers are a select group who have to apply for and be accepted to the program.
No official word yet on a more-widely available public Beta (which was Beta 2 for Office 2003), but one assumes that it will be available sometime in the spring.
Beta 1 is generally a very rough version of the product with many unfinished features and bugs to be expected. Beta 1 testers are a select group who have to apply for and be accepted to the program.
No official word yet on a more-widely available public Beta (which was Beta 2 for Office 2003), but one assumes that it will be available sometime in the spring.
More wildlife showing up in food products
A woman in Iowa found a turtle (deceased) in her bag of Folger's coffee. Refreshingly, she isn't going to sue.
Another football Friday
Another big, but not giant, football weekend awaits. On with the show:
Colleges
Kansas @ Texas - All the 'Horns need to do is keep winning. With the demise of Virginia Tech last week, I don't think blowouts are necessary for Texas to hang on to #2 in the BCS. Alabama and/or Miami would have to do something pretty spectacular to make up ground. So, Vince and Co should just take care of business, don't screw around, and don't get hurt.
USC @ Cal - Also not much to look forward to here. The Trojans should have no trouble with Cal. They also just want to take care of business and suffer no serious injuries.
A&M @ Oklahoma - Oh dear. Just when the Aggies REALLY need a win, they have to go on the road to face a resurgent Sooners team. Oklahoma seems to have hit bottom and is on the rebound. The Aggies are still not sure where bottom is. A long afternoon if your wardrobe contains a lot of maroon.
Florida @ South Carolina - In a slow weekend of Dixie football, this is probably the Redneck Game of the Week. Spurrier faces his old team, which makes for some interest. The number of pre-1985 American cars in the parking lot also holds some interest. At last check, the O/U on that was 10,000. I like the over. South Carolina is hot, but they're not a match for the Gators.
Colorado @ Iowa State - Texas will likely face the Buffalos in the Big 12 Championship, so it makes sense to start paying attention to them. Iowa State is cannon fodder, but Colorado is not exactly the 1995 Cornhuskers. I think Colorado wins, but not in a blowout.
Boston University vs. the immortal soul of Tom Ladka. I heard they turned Nickerson Field into a weekly craft fair. I hope I got that wrong.
Pros
Pats @ Miami - Oh my. When do things turn around for the Pats? Well, it could very well be this week. It needs to be, as the Pats have to win the division. The good news is that everyone else in the AFC East is a lot worse than New England.
Denver @ Oakland - Another great AFC West rivalry. The Raiders are far too inconsistent, but when they're on, they've got weapons. Still, Denver is one of the better running teams in the league, and Jake Plummer is having a career year (which is, I know, not saying much). Besides, the Raiders are an awfully tough team to like.
Washington @ Tampa Bay - I keep rooting for the Redskins to lose, and I think they would this week if anyone other than Chris Simms were playing QB for Tampa. Simms is one of those prototype QBs on paper, but lacks the intangibles to make him a legit NFL QB.
Cleveland @ Pittsburgh - Boy, am I glad I don't live in either of these places. Another banner week for "Desperate Housewives".
Cowboys @ Eagles - Will the Eagles take off without the battleship anchor called Terrell Owens around their necks? I think the answer will be some time in coming. At this point, they still have zero running game, their receivers are certainly not as talented without Owens, and McNabb is still hobbled, even if he is better. I know it's Philadelphia on Monday night, but I like the Cowboys' chances. This is assuming that Parcells doesn't turn into RC "There's Only 3 Things That Can Happen When You Throw The Ball, And 2 of Them Are Bad" Slocum on us again.
Comedic Value Game of the Week: Again, there are a bunch to choose from. My pick is SF @ Chicago. You can practically feel the life-force being drained out of everyone associated with this game.
Go (your team here)!
Colleges
Kansas @ Texas - All the 'Horns need to do is keep winning. With the demise of Virginia Tech last week, I don't think blowouts are necessary for Texas to hang on to #2 in the BCS. Alabama and/or Miami would have to do something pretty spectacular to make up ground. So, Vince and Co should just take care of business, don't screw around, and don't get hurt.
USC @ Cal - Also not much to look forward to here. The Trojans should have no trouble with Cal. They also just want to take care of business and suffer no serious injuries.
A&M @ Oklahoma - Oh dear. Just when the Aggies REALLY need a win, they have to go on the road to face a resurgent Sooners team. Oklahoma seems to have hit bottom and is on the rebound. The Aggies are still not sure where bottom is. A long afternoon if your wardrobe contains a lot of maroon.
Florida @ South Carolina - In a slow weekend of Dixie football, this is probably the Redneck Game of the Week. Spurrier faces his old team, which makes for some interest. The number of pre-1985 American cars in the parking lot also holds some interest. At last check, the O/U on that was 10,000. I like the over. South Carolina is hot, but they're not a match for the Gators.
Colorado @ Iowa State - Texas will likely face the Buffalos in the Big 12 Championship, so it makes sense to start paying attention to them. Iowa State is cannon fodder, but Colorado is not exactly the 1995 Cornhuskers. I think Colorado wins, but not in a blowout.
Boston University vs. the immortal soul of Tom Ladka. I heard they turned Nickerson Field into a weekly craft fair. I hope I got that wrong.
Pros
Pats @ Miami - Oh my. When do things turn around for the Pats? Well, it could very well be this week. It needs to be, as the Pats have to win the division. The good news is that everyone else in the AFC East is a lot worse than New England.
Denver @ Oakland - Another great AFC West rivalry. The Raiders are far too inconsistent, but when they're on, they've got weapons. Still, Denver is one of the better running teams in the league, and Jake Plummer is having a career year (which is, I know, not saying much). Besides, the Raiders are an awfully tough team to like.
Washington @ Tampa Bay - I keep rooting for the Redskins to lose, and I think they would this week if anyone other than Chris Simms were playing QB for Tampa. Simms is one of those prototype QBs on paper, but lacks the intangibles to make him a legit NFL QB.
Cleveland @ Pittsburgh - Boy, am I glad I don't live in either of these places. Another banner week for "Desperate Housewives".
Cowboys @ Eagles - Will the Eagles take off without the battleship anchor called Terrell Owens around their necks? I think the answer will be some time in coming. At this point, they still have zero running game, their receivers are certainly not as talented without Owens, and McNabb is still hobbled, even if he is better. I know it's Philadelphia on Monday night, but I like the Cowboys' chances. This is assuming that Parcells doesn't turn into RC "There's Only 3 Things That Can Happen When You Throw The Ball, And 2 of Them Are Bad" Slocum on us again.
Comedic Value Game of the Week: Again, there are a bunch to choose from. My pick is SF @ Chicago. You can practically feel the life-force being drained out of everyone associated with this game.
Go (your team here)!
Some Speilberg news
Ain't It Cool News has a bit of Speilberg news today. The high points for me:
- Indiana Jones 4 is not dead, but isn't progressing much, which sucks because the first three were among the best movies ever made and I can't wait for #4
- he's going to make a Jurassic Park 4, although I'm not sure why
- and he and Tom Hanks are working on another WWII miniseries, this time set in the Pacific, which should be greatness.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
A toasty winter, no fire required
According to StormTrack, pretty much half the country can expect a warmer-than-normal winter, while the other half could go either way.
I'm never sure what to make of predictions like this. I just hope we get enough hard freezes to thin out the spring bug population.
I'm never sure what to make of predictions like this. I just hope we get enough hard freezes to thin out the spring bug population.
PO'd commuters burn delayed trains
Commuters angry over service delays torched 26 railroad cars in South Africa.
Something tells me that this act did not improve service very much. However, it is a slightly stronger vote of dissatisfaction than your average customer survey.
Something tells me that this act did not improve service very much. However, it is a slightly stronger vote of dissatisfaction than your average customer survey.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Closer to alternative power...
Mazda has introduced a whole line of cars that run on alternative fuels or hybrid motors. We're getting closer, but it can't happen soon enough!
"Looking for Comedy in the Muslim World"
One of my all-time favorite comedians, Albert Brooks, has produced a documentary in which he goes to India and tries to figure out what makes Muslims laugh. There's no mention of God, the Qu'ran, or other religious subjects. He's just trying to find out what's funny to the average Muslim on the street.
This is genius.
Brooks has been responsible for some of the biggest laughs in my life. His bit on "Rewriting the National Anthem" on his first album has stayed with me since I first heard it late one night on Q102's "Comedy Hour" in 1975 or so. The Pavillion of Past Lives in Defending Your Life cracked me up so badly that my wife thought about leaving the theater.
Making a movie like this took some guts. According to the John Stossel article linked above, Brooks is having a hard time finding a distributor for the film. I hope he gets it out - Warner says they're going to do it and I hope that's right. I will be first in line to check it out if it ever hits the theaters.
This is genius.
Brooks has been responsible for some of the biggest laughs in my life. His bit on "Rewriting the National Anthem" on his first album has stayed with me since I first heard it late one night on Q102's "Comedy Hour" in 1975 or so. The Pavillion of Past Lives in Defending Your Life cracked me up so badly that my wife thought about leaving the theater.
Making a movie like this took some guts. According to the John Stossel article linked above, Brooks is having a hard time finding a distributor for the film. I hope he gets it out - Warner says they're going to do it and I hope that's right. I will be first in line to check it out if it ever hits the theaters.
China warns of possible terrorist attacks
The Chinese government has issued a warning that Islamic terrorists may be planning to attack luxury hotels in Beijing in the next week. This is interesting for a few reasons, among them:
1. Bush is scheduled to be in Beijing late next week.
2. China has announced "terrorist threats" in the past as a pretext for stomping on the minority Uighurs, who are Muslim.
So, as is the case with nearly everything that comes out of Beijing, it's hard to know what's really going on here.
This certainly MIGHT be credible, as the Chinese are no friends of Islamic extremists.
However, it could just as easily be made up to a) show the world that the Chinese are on board with the War on Terrorism, and/or b) excuse some additional human rights violations against the Uighurs in Xinjiang.
UPDATE: Huh? Now the Chinese deny having issued the warning in the first place. Beijing is the most confusing place on Earth.
1. Bush is scheduled to be in Beijing late next week.
2. China has announced "terrorist threats" in the past as a pretext for stomping on the minority Uighurs, who are Muslim.
So, as is the case with nearly everything that comes out of Beijing, it's hard to know what's really going on here.
This certainly MIGHT be credible, as the Chinese are no friends of Islamic extremists.
However, it could just as easily be made up to a) show the world that the Chinese are on board with the War on Terrorism, and/or b) excuse some additional human rights violations against the Uighurs in Xinjiang.
UPDATE: Huh? Now the Chinese deny having issued the warning in the first place. Beijing is the most confusing place on Earth.
Brutal list of recent A&M floundering
Sturm has a list (emailed to him - scroll down to the bottom of the post) of rather dubious accomplishments by the A&M football team since Dennis Franchione arrived. Some highlights from said list:
- 16-17 overall record
- 11 losses of 20 or more points
- Lost to every Big 12 team, except for KU/KSU, at least once
- Lost to every Big 12 team, except for KU/KSU/Baylor, by at least 20 points
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Rangers at least pursuing AJ Burnett
Encouraging news from Rangerland - new GM Jon Daniels was among the first to call AJ Burnett's agent. The Rangers seem to be serious players for Burnett's services.
Burnett should not be confused with Walter Johnson, but he's probably the best free agent pitcher out there this year. He's relatively young and has a career ERA under 4.00, which, these days, is about as good as it gets.
Ohpleaseohpleaseohplease...
Burnett should not be confused with Walter Johnson, but he's probably the best free agent pitcher out there this year. He's relatively young and has a career ERA under 4.00, which, these days, is about as good as it gets.
Ohpleaseohpleaseohplease...
Fitty Cent's movie - apparently better than I expected
In one of the bigger shocks of my life, Channel 8's movie critic, the great Gary Cogill, actually likes Get Rich or Die Tryin'. This movie, staring and about Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, was on my Bomb-of-the-Year Watch List, but Cogill says not so.
Based on Cogill's say-so, I will give this a try, but I'll probably wait until it hits Netflix or cable.
BTW - I've linked to Channel 8 and the Dallas Morning News sites a few times. Belo, which owns both of them, is one of the most egregious users of pop-ups and in-line ads that I've ever seen, and I suspect them of being the source for 50% of the spam email I receive. I encourage you to use BugMeNot to get into these sites, rather than registering yourself.
Based on Cogill's say-so, I will give this a try, but I'll probably wait until it hits Netflix or cable.
BTW - I've linked to Channel 8 and the Dallas Morning News sites a few times. Belo, which owns both of them, is one of the most egregious users of pop-ups and in-line ads that I've ever seen, and I suspect them of being the source for 50% of the spam email I receive. I encourage you to use BugMeNot to get into these sites, rather than registering yourself.
Ugueth Urbina arrested for attempted murder
Former Rangers' closer Uggie Urbina was arrested in his home country of Venezuela for going after a group of men with a machete. According to the BBC story, he and his cohorts also poured gasoline on the victims and tried to set them on fire.
Makes the Frankie Francisco chair-throwing incident seem rather pedestrian, doesn't it?
Makes the Frankie Francisco chair-throwing incident seem rather pedestrian, doesn't it?
Cowboys rant - I'm tired of Bill Parcells
While looking for coverage of Quincy Carter's bizarre conversation with Rhyner and Williams yesterday on The Ticket (none found yet), I stumbled across a couple of columns from Richie Whitt (formerly of the Startlegram, now writing for the Observer). Richie is seriously PO'd at Bill Parcells and has pulled no punches in letting us all know it. Read the columns here and here.
I'm on Richie's side regarding the Monstrous Tuna. Parcells rules this team and the Dallas media, such as it is, with an iron fist. Everyone from the assistant coaches to the writers are scared to death of him. No one gets to question anything he says or does. It makes no sense to me at all.
Parcells has never done a one-on-one interview since he's been in Dallas. No one gets any access at all. He holds a daily press conference which is a sure cure for insomnia and constipation. As Richie says, they are "circle jerks", with practically no tough questions asked, and the few that do get asked are ignored by His Massiveness.
An intrepid reporter trying to work up a unique angle is left trying to get a 15-second answer by tagging along with The Gargantuan One (along with a slew of other reporters) during a "walk-along" from the briefing room to his office. No wonder no one writes anything interesting about this team.
The assistant coaches are not allowed to speak to the media. This may be the craziest part of the whole deal. The Gigantic Tuna is the only "official" voice of the team. Oh sure, Jerry still talks, but no one has ever listened to him about football matters. Business, stadium, league, and other off-the-field subjects, yes, but never about what happens on the field. The players talk also, but they're all scared to death of Parcells, so their quotes come right out of the "Crash Davis Book of Cliches".
This is being tolerated by the public for two reasons:
1. Parcells' reputation as a "genius" and
2. The team is winning a little this year.
To give The Pear-Shaped One some credit: The move with Bledsoe has worked better than anyone (Parcells included) could have hoped. The draft class of 2005 (Spears, Ware, Canty, Barber, Petitti, etc) is looking like an all-timer. A couple of free agents (Aaron Glenn, Anthony Henry, and, of course, Bledsoe) are panning out. It's obviously not all bad news.
But comparing the Enormous Tuna to the last control freak who coached here, the Great, Spectacular, Hero-of-My-Youth Jimmy Johnson, helps illuminate just how insane Parcells really is. Jimmy was certifiable when he was here, but he was a superior judge of talent, a superior motivator, a superior game-day coach, a superior handler of assistant coaches, FAR more accessible to the media and fans, and on and on.
The Parcells schtick is wearing thin. A return to mediocrity, either in the second half of this season or in coming years (assuming he hangs out that long) will expose this situation for what it is. The emperor has no clothes.
I'm on Richie's side regarding the Monstrous Tuna. Parcells rules this team and the Dallas media, such as it is, with an iron fist. Everyone from the assistant coaches to the writers are scared to death of him. No one gets to question anything he says or does. It makes no sense to me at all.
Parcells has never done a one-on-one interview since he's been in Dallas. No one gets any access at all. He holds a daily press conference which is a sure cure for insomnia and constipation. As Richie says, they are "circle jerks", with practically no tough questions asked, and the few that do get asked are ignored by His Massiveness.
An intrepid reporter trying to work up a unique angle is left trying to get a 15-second answer by tagging along with The Gargantuan One (along with a slew of other reporters) during a "walk-along" from the briefing room to his office. No wonder no one writes anything interesting about this team.
The assistant coaches are not allowed to speak to the media. This may be the craziest part of the whole deal. The Gigantic Tuna is the only "official" voice of the team. Oh sure, Jerry still talks, but no one has ever listened to him about football matters. Business, stadium, league, and other off-the-field subjects, yes, but never about what happens on the field. The players talk also, but they're all scared to death of Parcells, so their quotes come right out of the "Crash Davis Book of Cliches".
This is being tolerated by the public for two reasons:
1. Parcells' reputation as a "genius" and
2. The team is winning a little this year.
To give The Pear-Shaped One some credit: The move with Bledsoe has worked better than anyone (Parcells included) could have hoped. The draft class of 2005 (Spears, Ware, Canty, Barber, Petitti, etc) is looking like an all-timer. A couple of free agents (Aaron Glenn, Anthony Henry, and, of course, Bledsoe) are panning out. It's obviously not all bad news.
But comparing the Enormous Tuna to the last control freak who coached here, the Great, Spectacular, Hero-of-My-Youth Jimmy Johnson, helps illuminate just how insane Parcells really is. Jimmy was certifiable when he was here, but he was a superior judge of talent, a superior motivator, a superior game-day coach, a superior handler of assistant coaches, FAR more accessible to the media and fans, and on and on.
The Parcells schtick is wearing thin. A return to mediocrity, either in the second half of this season or in coming years (assuming he hangs out that long) will expose this situation for what it is. The emperor has no clothes.
Methinks I detect the aroma of sour grapes
Listen, I'm a Pats fan, and I feel bad about last night's thrashing. But I think I detect a note of sore-loserness in this post on Cursed to First.
On the other hand, it would be a good idea to remember that Peyton and Co haven't won anything yet.
On the other hand, it would be a good idea to remember that Peyton and Co haven't won anything yet.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Is this good news?
The EU is set to start training the Palestinian police force. For the sake of everyone in the area, I sincerely hope the French will have very little involvement.
I think Bush was trying to tell you this in 2001
According to the BBC, meeting the Kyoto Protocol will reduce the growth of the European economy.
Not surprisingly, there's no mention of "I told you so" coming from the White House. There should be.
Not surprisingly, there's no mention of "I told you so" coming from the White House. There should be.
They're not criminals, they're just "communicating"
From Michelle Malkin today:
Today's Washington Post runs an apologist piece telling us that the thugs who are doing their darndest to burn down Paris are simply misunderstood youth. According to this piece (of tripe):
Rrriiiiight.
I've been staying away from this topic, other than one post early on, because it's getting a ton of coverage from people who know a hell of a lot more than I do. However, every so often, I run across something like this, that chaps my ass (sorry) so badly that I can't help myself.
I'm sure the people manipulating these thugs have got them fully brainwashed - "Your cause is just. You are taking the only course of action open to you. You are making the French listen to you", that sort of nonsense.
Well, sorry. No one owes you anything, folks. Just because the socialist French have been training you differently since the 60's (which is a subject for another rant in the next few days), you are the only ones who can help yourselves. Burning the friggin city is going to get you nowhere.
Today's Washington Post runs an apologist piece telling us that the thugs who are doing their darndest to burn down Paris are simply misunderstood youth. According to this piece (of tripe):
One of Rezzoug's "kids" -- the countless youths who use the sports
facilities he oversees -- is a husky, French-born 18-year-old whose parents
moved here from Ivory Coast. At 3 p.m. on Saturday, he'd just awakened and
ventured back onto the streets after a night of setting cars ablaze."We want to change the government," he said, a black baseball cap pulled low over large, chocolate-brown eyes and an ebony face. "There's no way of getting their
attention. The only way to communicate is by burning."
Rrriiiiight.
I've been staying away from this topic, other than one post early on, because it's getting a ton of coverage from people who know a hell of a lot more than I do. However, every so often, I run across something like this, that chaps my ass (sorry) so badly that I can't help myself.
I'm sure the people manipulating these thugs have got them fully brainwashed - "Your cause is just. You are taking the only course of action open to you. You are making the French listen to you", that sort of nonsense.
Well, sorry. No one owes you anything, folks. Just because the socialist French have been training you differently since the 60's (which is a subject for another rant in the next few days), you are the only ones who can help yourselves. Burning the friggin city is going to get you nowhere.
Australians say they foiled terror attack
Police in Sydney and Melbourne made arrests on Tuesday which they say have derailed a planned terrorist attack.
Among the arrested is an Algerian-Australian (they've got hyphens down under too) named Abdul Nacer Benbrika, who advocates "violent jihad". Lovely.
Also of note: The men arrested supposedly underwent military-style training at a rural camp northeast of Melbourne. That's almost like saying police in Dallas arrested a bunch of terrorists who were trained outside Ardmore, OK. Scary.
Among the arrested is an Algerian-Australian (they've got hyphens down under too) named Abdul Nacer Benbrika, who advocates "violent jihad". Lovely.
Also of note: The men arrested supposedly underwent military-style training at a rural camp northeast of Melbourne. That's almost like saying police in Dallas arrested a bunch of terrorists who were trained outside Ardmore, OK. Scary.
First half - Pats vs. Colts
The Lexus Halftime Show doesn't hold much allure tonight - I'm sick to death of Terrell Owens' bipolar nuttiness, and Tim McGraw is a bullet to the brainpan.
Instead, I have to comment on the first half, esp the seeming inability of the Pats' secondary to cover the Colts' receivers. I haven't seen that many guys wide open since the Second Annual Drunk-Stoned Touch Football Super Bowl at Boston University in 1985. I know the Pats are down to about 5th string in the secondary, but this is nuts.
I suspect they are changing out Corey Dillon's gloves for the new suction-cup model as I type.
The Colts offense has struggled in weeks past, but seems to be hitting on all cylinders right now. When they've got all the parts going, that is some kind of machine. I thought Peyton was going to have a stroke after Vrabel's interception, but he calmed right down and drove the team like the master he's supposed to be.
The Pats are going to need to get a few hits on Manning, cover the receivers closer, and get a few turnovers to get back into this one. Belichick's the master of the halftime adjustment, and he's going to have to pull out the change of the century this time. I think the second half will be a different story.
Go Pats!
UPDATE: Um, well... So much for that. The Colts really put the pedal to the metal in the 2nd half and completed the blowout. This was a big win for Peyton on many levels, not the least of which is Indianapolis now controls the tie-breaker with the Pats, virtually assuring them of not having to return to Foxborough in the playoffs.
As for the Pats, the wheels have been off most of the season. The good news is the rest of the AFC East sucks a lot worse than New England.
Instead, I have to comment on the first half, esp the seeming inability of the Pats' secondary to cover the Colts' receivers. I haven't seen that many guys wide open since the Second Annual Drunk-Stoned Touch Football Super Bowl at Boston University in 1985. I know the Pats are down to about 5th string in the secondary, but this is nuts.
I suspect they are changing out Corey Dillon's gloves for the new suction-cup model as I type.
The Colts offense has struggled in weeks past, but seems to be hitting on all cylinders right now. When they've got all the parts going, that is some kind of machine. I thought Peyton was going to have a stroke after Vrabel's interception, but he calmed right down and drove the team like the master he's supposed to be.
The Pats are going to need to get a few hits on Manning, cover the receivers closer, and get a few turnovers to get back into this one. Belichick's the master of the halftime adjustment, and he's going to have to pull out the change of the century this time. I think the second half will be a different story.
Go Pats!
UPDATE: Um, well... So much for that. The Colts really put the pedal to the metal in the 2nd half and completed the blowout. This was a big win for Peyton on many levels, not the least of which is Indianapolis now controls the tie-breaker with the Pats, virtually assuring them of not having to return to Foxborough in the playoffs.
As for the Pats, the wheels have been off most of the season. The good news is the rest of the AFC East sucks a lot worse than New England.
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Monday is another big day for Microsoft
On Monday, Microsoft will officially launch the three products that make up the application platform of the future. Visual Studio 2005, SQL Server 2005, and BizTalk Server 2006 will be the underpins for everything that's coming next year.
Sorry for geeking out, but this is a biggie!
Sorry for geeking out, but this is a biggie!
Video from the Asian tsunami
Here's a collection of videos from the December 26, 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia. Some of these are quite unbelievable.
Send yourself an email 20 years from now
I just sent myself an email that will be delivered 10 years from today. I could have chosen 20 years from now, but that is just too far away.
Forbes.com is providing a free email time-capsule service. You can write your future self a note through the end of November.
You can select the email address you want the message delivered to. I think it makes sense to use a Web-based email account from one of the big boys - Gmail, Yahoo, MSN, etc, to give yourself the best odds of the provider still being there.
Type your message, choose when it's to be delivered to you, go through a couple of verification steps, and you're done.
Forbes seems pretty serious about making it work. I just think it'll be a hoot - I made sure I described the current family situation, the current political climate, the type of hardware and connection I'm using, a bit about what I'm doing at this exact moment, etc.
We'll see, in 10 years or so.
Forbes.com is providing a free email time-capsule service. You can write your future self a note through the end of November.
You can select the email address you want the message delivered to. I think it makes sense to use a Web-based email account from one of the big boys - Gmail, Yahoo, MSN, etc, to give yourself the best odds of the provider still being there.
Type your message, choose when it's to be delivered to you, go through a couple of verification steps, and you're done.
Forbes seems pretty serious about making it work. I just think it'll be a hoot - I made sure I described the current family situation, the current political climate, the type of hardware and connection I'm using, a bit about what I'm doing at this exact moment, etc.
We'll see, in 10 years or so.
Curse of "The Iceman"
A few days late for Halloween, but creepy nonetheless: People who have been in contact with the frozen remains of a Copper Age hunter are dying at a rapid clip.
Back in 1991, an amateur climber found the 5,200 year old remains of a Copper Age hunter frozen in glacier ice in the Austrian Alps. The remarkably well-preserved body, found with tools and weapons, was dubbed "Otzi the Iceman".
Since that time, many of the people who have come in contact with Otzi have died, including the guy who originally found him, the pathologist who examined the body prior to its removal from the glacier, the pathologists mountaineer guide, and several other team members.
Everyone in the scientific community is scoffing at the idea of a "Curse of The Iceman", but I'm not so sure...
Back in 1991, an amateur climber found the 5,200 year old remains of a Copper Age hunter frozen in glacier ice in the Austrian Alps. The remarkably well-preserved body, found with tools and weapons, was dubbed "Otzi the Iceman".
Since that time, many of the people who have come in contact with Otzi have died, including the guy who originally found him, the pathologist who examined the body prior to its removal from the glacier, the pathologists mountaineer guide, and several other team members.
Everyone in the scientific community is scoffing at the idea of a "Curse of The Iceman", but I'm not so sure...
Burmese government moves capital
I was shocked to see this one. I don't pretend to be "wired in" to events in Burma, but I do keep an eye out for news from there, and I hadn't heard a word.
The Burmese (Myanmar) government has apparently built a new capital on the road between Rangoon and Mandalay, at a little nothing place called Pyinmana. According to the BBC, the new capital has all the comforts of home in an easy-to-control little, out-of-the-way package. Golf courses, villas, airfields, all the important stuff. And no press, no international community, and no Aung San Suu Kyi.
It sure looks like the generals are settling in for the long haul. Not that anyone who follows this sad little country is surprised, but the "Roadmap to Democracy" seems to be on hold, no matter what Than Shwe says.
The Burmese (Myanmar) government has apparently built a new capital on the road between Rangoon and Mandalay, at a little nothing place called Pyinmana. According to the BBC, the new capital has all the comforts of home in an easy-to-control little, out-of-the-way package. Golf courses, villas, airfields, all the important stuff. And no press, no international community, and no Aung San Suu Kyi.
It sure looks like the generals are settling in for the long haul. Not that anyone who follows this sad little country is surprised, but the "Roadmap to Democracy" seems to be on hold, no matter what Than Shwe says.
"Sonic blaster" foils Somali pirates
In one of the stranger stories I've run across lately:
A super-luxury cruise ship repelled boarding by Somali pirates (just a quick sanity check - this IS 2005, right? Not 1721?) by hammering them with a "sonic blaster". This device, which I am adding to my gift list, sends out high-powered air vibrations which knock the attackers off their feet. It's the size of a satellite dish and will probably fit on the front bumper of my wife's Expedition nicely.
The waters off Somalia, home of anarchy since 1991, are among the most dangerous in the world. Pirate attacks are common and the only sort of "law-enforcement" available is an international naval task force, currently under the command of the French (snicker).
Will this become the new "adventure tourism"? Head for Somalia in an armed yacht?
Here is yet another instance of "What happens when the West doesn't have any strategic interests in a region". Like I keep saying - if we can come up with some alternatives to petroleum, we can let the Arabs rip themselves to shreds the same way.
I can't help but throw this in as well: For those of you who protest US involvement in places like Iraq and the Middle East, please take a look at Somalia, Zimbabwe, Burma, etc for examples of what happens when the US DOESN'T get involved. Not a very pretty picture, is it?
A super-luxury cruise ship repelled boarding by Somali pirates (just a quick sanity check - this IS 2005, right? Not 1721?) by hammering them with a "sonic blaster". This device, which I am adding to my gift list, sends out high-powered air vibrations which knock the attackers off their feet. It's the size of a satellite dish and will probably fit on the front bumper of my wife's Expedition nicely.
The waters off Somalia, home of anarchy since 1991, are among the most dangerous in the world. Pirate attacks are common and the only sort of "law-enforcement" available is an international naval task force, currently under the command of the French (snicker).
Will this become the new "adventure tourism"? Head for Somalia in an armed yacht?
Here is yet another instance of "What happens when the West doesn't have any strategic interests in a region". Like I keep saying - if we can come up with some alternatives to petroleum, we can let the Arabs rip themselves to shreds the same way.
I can't help but throw this in as well: For those of you who protest US involvement in places like Iraq and the Middle East, please take a look at Somalia, Zimbabwe, Burma, etc for examples of what happens when the US DOESN'T get involved. Not a very pretty picture, is it?
Saturday, November 05, 2005
Hokies let business take care of them
Well, the BCS is pretty clear now. Miami throttled VA Tech tonite, 27-7. Marcus Vick was TERRIBLE, and the Miami defense was stifling.
The BCS begins to sort itself out this week. Clearly, the top four will be:
1. USC (killing Stanford as I write)
2. Texas (destroyed Baylor)
3. Alabama (shut out Mississippi State - another defensive monster)
4. Miami
Number 5 and below take a bit more guessing. I suppose it will be Penn State at 5, it's only my deep apathy when it comes to the over-rated Joe Paterno that keeps me from completely accepting it.
Assuming USC and Texas take care of business the rest of the way, the Rose Bowl will be what we figured all season. I'm trying not to look forward too far, but, man, what a great matchup. Let's get past Thanksgiving, then we'll start the bowl previews.
The BCS begins to sort itself out this week. Clearly, the top four will be:
1. USC (killing Stanford as I write)
2. Texas (destroyed Baylor)
3. Alabama (shut out Mississippi State - another defensive monster)
4. Miami
Number 5 and below take a bit more guessing. I suppose it will be Penn State at 5, it's only my deep apathy when it comes to the over-rated Joe Paterno that keeps me from completely accepting it.
Assuming USC and Texas take care of business the rest of the way, the Rose Bowl will be what we figured all season. I'm trying not to look forward too far, but, man, what a great matchup. Let's get past Thanksgiving, then we'll start the bowl previews.
Texas takes care of business
The 'Horns absolutely demolished Baylor 62-0 earlier today. Ramonce Taylor, the running-back-converted-to-wide-receiver-converted-to-running-back, had a huge game, as did Vince and Jamaal Charles. They did everything they needed to do to hang on to #2 in the BCS.
Hokies-Hurricanes is still big, but Virginia Tech is going to have to turn in a similar performance to make any claim at moving up from #3. Doubtful, at best. Miami has the nation's #3 scoring defense.
ESPN-HD at 6:45, baby. Set those Tivos!
Hokies-Hurricanes is still big, but Virginia Tech is going to have to turn in a similar performance to make any claim at moving up from #3. Doubtful, at best. Miami has the nation's #3 scoring defense.
ESPN-HD at 6:45, baby. Set those Tivos!
Funny sports list
Here's a list of top 10 guys we love to see lose.
I agree with every one of them, except the poker guy whom I've never heard of. And, of course, I completely agree with Gay-Rod as #1.
I agree with every one of them, except the poker guy whom I've never heard of. And, of course, I completely agree with Gay-Rod as #1.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Rather extreme criminal justice
Oscar Goodman, the mayor of Las Vegas and not the guy from "The Six Million Dollar Man", suggests that people who deface highways with graffiti should lose a thumb. Live on TV.
Listen, I'm all for harsh penalties for criminals, but this is too crazy for words. I don't know that I'd support de-thumbing child molesters, much less dudes with spray paint cans.
Didn't Randall Flagg impose these sorts of punishments in Stephen King's classic "The Stand"? Wasn't that part set in Vegas also? I thought it sounded familiar. The mullahs in Iran might get behind this as well.
I'm a supporter of the "law and order" candidate more often that not, but this sort of story scares the you-know-what out of me.
Listen, I'm all for harsh penalties for criminals, but this is too crazy for words. I don't know that I'd support de-thumbing child molesters, much less dudes with spray paint cans.
Didn't Randall Flagg impose these sorts of punishments in Stephen King's classic "The Stand"? Wasn't that part set in Vegas also? I thought it sounded familiar. The mullahs in Iran might get behind this as well.
I'm a supporter of the "law and order" candidate more often that not, but this sort of story scares the you-know-what out of me.
Friday funnies
Kos occasionally comes up with some good stuff. Not often, but every once in a while.
My favorite:
My favorite:
"If Judge Alito is confirmed, there would be two sitting Supreme Court justices from New Jersey. Experts say this could cause a reversal in the famous case of Mullet vs. Backhair."
---Conan O'Brien
Football Friday is here again!
My goodness, the weeks just streak by, don't they? Let's get right to it:
Colleges
Texas @ Baylor - Baylor has improved mightily in the past three years. Not that it matters. The 'Horns will take them apart. There can be no first-half stumbles this week, no sign of weakness against an inferior team, because the Hokies are right on Texas' tail.
Miami @ VA Tech - The College Football Game of the Week without a doubt. Miami is getting six and a half, which surprises me a bit. However, the game is in Blacksburg and the Hokies are tough. Both teams play defense, so it probably won't be a shoot-out. If the Hokies are going to lose this year, this is the game. If they trounce the Hurricanes, there's every chance that they pass the Longhorns for #2 in the BCS and a spot in the Rose Bowl. BIG GAME! I think VA Tech wins, but Miami keeps it close and the BCS stays as-is.
Stanford @ USC - Stanford is getting 33 points, and it won't help them. Ouch.
Alabama @ Mississippi State - The much-anticipated Redneck Game of the Week will feature a few hundred Big Southern Dummies on the field, thousands more in the stands, and millions more on TV. Highlight of the afternoon will be the Big Southern Dummy pledge of allegiance, which includes only vowels. Alabama wins, by the way.
A&M @ Texas Tech - Coach Fran made the front page of Sports Day in the DMN today. That's rarely a good thing when you're team is 5-3 and getting teed up for a major ace-whuppin'. Fran's honeymoon is OVER, and the Aggies need to win some games to avoid an ugly situation.
Rice @ SMU - I figure at least 200 people will be in the stands for this one. Maybe as many as 300. But that's mostly because the weather forecast is really good.
Boston University vs the ghost of Craig Jensen - I was always nervous around Jens because you never knew when he was going to turn up naked. And given the fact that his johnson resembled a baby's arm holding an apple (thanks, Austin Powers), it was always a good idea to keep your distance.
Pros
Colts @ Pats - Finally, a Monday night game worth tuning in! Of course, I like the Pats. Not without reason, though. Manning does struggle in the big game. He's going to have to win a few to shake that monniker. Brady is not as flashy and doesn't put up the same numbers, but three Super Bowl rings sorta puts "case closed" on that argument.
Philadelphia @ Washington - And a good Sunday night game, too. Lucky us. TO called out McNab this week. He probably had a point, but why on Earth would you do that in the middle of the season? Philadelphia is self-destructing before our eyes, but I think they get it together enough to pound the hated Redskins.
Oakland @ KC - Always a war, regardless of how good or bad the teams are. My father-in-law will be glued, hoping against hope that the Raiders sort themselves out.
San Diego @ Jets - Oh good. Joe and Ace will watch this one together and cheer for opposing teams. Just like the good old days. I heard the Jets starting QB this week will be the ghost of Richard Todd. Maybe he'll be better than the living QBs the Jets have.
Carolina @ Tampa Bay - Is Chris Simms still the starting QB in Tampa Bay? He is? Well, this is simple, then, isn't it? Bet the farm, the 401k, your right kidney, and next month's child support on Carolina.
The Comedic Value Game of the Week: There are a bunch to choose from. This week I'll go with Detroit at Minnesota. This one may have the same sort of attendance as Rice @ SMU. I'm certainly less interested in the outcome of this one than I am in Rice @ SMU.
Go (insert your team here)!
Colleges
Texas @ Baylor - Baylor has improved mightily in the past three years. Not that it matters. The 'Horns will take them apart. There can be no first-half stumbles this week, no sign of weakness against an inferior team, because the Hokies are right on Texas' tail.
Miami @ VA Tech - The College Football Game of the Week without a doubt. Miami is getting six and a half, which surprises me a bit. However, the game is in Blacksburg and the Hokies are tough. Both teams play defense, so it probably won't be a shoot-out. If the Hokies are going to lose this year, this is the game. If they trounce the Hurricanes, there's every chance that they pass the Longhorns for #2 in the BCS and a spot in the Rose Bowl. BIG GAME! I think VA Tech wins, but Miami keeps it close and the BCS stays as-is.
Stanford @ USC - Stanford is getting 33 points, and it won't help them. Ouch.
Alabama @ Mississippi State - The much-anticipated Redneck Game of the Week will feature a few hundred Big Southern Dummies on the field, thousands more in the stands, and millions more on TV. Highlight of the afternoon will be the Big Southern Dummy pledge of allegiance, which includes only vowels. Alabama wins, by the way.
A&M @ Texas Tech - Coach Fran made the front page of Sports Day in the DMN today. That's rarely a good thing when you're team is 5-3 and getting teed up for a major ace-whuppin'. Fran's honeymoon is OVER, and the Aggies need to win some games to avoid an ugly situation.
Rice @ SMU - I figure at least 200 people will be in the stands for this one. Maybe as many as 300. But that's mostly because the weather forecast is really good.
Boston University vs the ghost of Craig Jensen - I was always nervous around Jens because you never knew when he was going to turn up naked. And given the fact that his johnson resembled a baby's arm holding an apple (thanks, Austin Powers), it was always a good idea to keep your distance.
Pros
Colts @ Pats - Finally, a Monday night game worth tuning in! Of course, I like the Pats. Not without reason, though. Manning does struggle in the big game. He's going to have to win a few to shake that monniker. Brady is not as flashy and doesn't put up the same numbers, but three Super Bowl rings sorta puts "case closed" on that argument.
Philadelphia @ Washington - And a good Sunday night game, too. Lucky us. TO called out McNab this week. He probably had a point, but why on Earth would you do that in the middle of the season? Philadelphia is self-destructing before our eyes, but I think they get it together enough to pound the hated Redskins.
Oakland @ KC - Always a war, regardless of how good or bad the teams are. My father-in-law will be glued, hoping against hope that the Raiders sort themselves out.
San Diego @ Jets - Oh good. Joe and Ace will watch this one together and cheer for opposing teams. Just like the good old days. I heard the Jets starting QB this week will be the ghost of Richard Todd. Maybe he'll be better than the living QBs the Jets have.
Carolina @ Tampa Bay - Is Chris Simms still the starting QB in Tampa Bay? He is? Well, this is simple, then, isn't it? Bet the farm, the 401k, your right kidney, and next month's child support on Carolina.
The Comedic Value Game of the Week: There are a bunch to choose from. This week I'll go with Detroit at Minnesota. This one may have the same sort of attendance as Rice @ SMU. I'm certainly less interested in the outcome of this one than I am in Rice @ SMU.
Go (insert your team here)!
HOV dummy
While we're on the subject of stupid acts and lawbreakers...
Kevin Morgan of Petaluma, CA (home of the world wrist-wrestling championship, by the way) was given a $351 ticket for driving in the HOV lane w/ a kickboxing dummy propped in the passenger seat. He had the dummy dressed in a Dolphins jacket and cap.
Would he have gotten away with it if the dummy was wearing a Raiders jacket instead?
Kevin Morgan of Petaluma, CA (home of the world wrist-wrestling championship, by the way) was given a $351 ticket for driving in the HOV lane w/ a kickboxing dummy propped in the passenger seat. He had the dummy dressed in a Dolphins jacket and cap.
Would he have gotten away with it if the dummy was wearing a Raiders jacket instead?
This would be funny if it wasn't so scary
How in the hell is THIS possible? A Death Row inmate, being held in a Harris County jail during his retrial (in which he is convicted again and sentenced to death again), changes clothes, produces a fake ID, and walks right out of the jail!!
For God's sake, Harris County is Houston. It's not West BFE, where the guards are each other's uncles and cousins at the same time.
Holy CRAP!!
With any luck at all, Charles Victor Thompson, murderer, white supremacist, and all-around scary-ass dude, will be picked up quickly and we'll all laugh about this on the Daily Show, SNL, and Dennis Miller. If he hurts or, God forbid, kills someone while out, there will be hell to pay. And rightly so.
UPDATE: Well, thank God! Thompson is, as of Sunday night, back in the clink. Looks like we got lucky.
For God's sake, Harris County is Houston. It's not West BFE, where the guards are each other's uncles and cousins at the same time.
Holy CRAP!!
With any luck at all, Charles Victor Thompson, murderer, white supremacist, and all-around scary-ass dude, will be picked up quickly and we'll all laugh about this on the Daily Show, SNL, and Dennis Miller. If he hurts or, God forbid, kills someone while out, there will be hell to pay. And rightly so.
UPDATE: Well, thank God! Thompson is, as of Sunday night, back in the clink. Looks like we got lucky.
Data security and you
Your US govt is apparently considering a bill that will reduce the amount of privacy you're entitled to while curtailing your rights to take action when your private information is leaked or stolen.
The Data Accountablity and Trust Act (DATA - you know some recent Ivy League grad came up with that nugget after his/her 4th Jolt cola late into an all-nighter in the Russell Building) will raise the "trigger" that forces the commercial data brokers like ChoicePoint and Lexus-Nexis to disclose data breaches.
This is a bad bill, and for once, it's a good thing that our Congress is distracted by other matters. Nothing is better than something here.
BTW, MSNBC's new "Red Tape Chronicles" blog is very promising. I like the idea of a really qualified guy, and Bob Sullivan is certainly that, dedicated to exposing fraud, bad laws, sloth-like bureaucracy, etc. Keep an eye on it.
The Data Accountablity and Trust Act (DATA - you know some recent Ivy League grad came up with that nugget after his/her 4th Jolt cola late into an all-nighter in the Russell Building) will raise the "trigger" that forces the commercial data brokers like ChoicePoint and Lexus-Nexis to disclose data breaches.
This is a bad bill, and for once, it's a good thing that our Congress is distracted by other matters. Nothing is better than something here.
BTW, MSNBC's new "Red Tape Chronicles" blog is very promising. I like the idea of a really qualified guy, and Bob Sullivan is certainly that, dedicated to exposing fraud, bad laws, sloth-like bureaucracy, etc. Keep an eye on it.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Buying electronics - big-box vs online
This probably isn't a surprise to anyone: Consumer Reports tells us that you're going to get a better deal buying electronics online than you will in a big-box retailer.
I don't think there's any doubt about that, if price is the sole deciding factor. Depending on the equipment you're buying, that may or may not be true. I have a few personal case-studies to illustrate the point.
Recently, I've bought a digital camera, a digital audio player (DAP), and a TV/home theater. The first two were purchased on Amazon, the TV/home theater was bought at Fry's Electronics (sorta like a super Best Buy).
For the camera and the DAP, these are relatively straightforward devices. Very little set-up, a small learning curve when it comes to usage, not very complex. In this case, price was my only differentiator between retailers.
In the case of the TV/home theater, a much more complex set of products, I made the decision to pay a bit more to deal with some humans in the purchase, delivery, and set up processes. I wish now that I had spent a bit more an gone to a smaller, more specialized retailer like Tweeter or Hillcrest High Fidelity. The reason: While Fry's did send a crew out to set up the equipment, they did an incomplete job. Since then, I've had Fry's out here twice more and I still have problems.
I'm in the market for a major home theater setup for my media room. This will represent a much larger investment than the starter set I bought for the family room. For this one, there's no way I will buy anything online OR from a big-box retailer. I'm going to make damn sure that the store I do buy from is there to support me past the initial installation. I'm willing to pay a premium for that kind of service.
I don't think there's any doubt about that, if price is the sole deciding factor. Depending on the equipment you're buying, that may or may not be true. I have a few personal case-studies to illustrate the point.
Recently, I've bought a digital camera, a digital audio player (DAP), and a TV/home theater. The first two were purchased on Amazon, the TV/home theater was bought at Fry's Electronics (sorta like a super Best Buy).
For the camera and the DAP, these are relatively straightforward devices. Very little set-up, a small learning curve when it comes to usage, not very complex. In this case, price was my only differentiator between retailers.
In the case of the TV/home theater, a much more complex set of products, I made the decision to pay a bit more to deal with some humans in the purchase, delivery, and set up processes. I wish now that I had spent a bit more an gone to a smaller, more specialized retailer like Tweeter or Hillcrest High Fidelity. The reason: While Fry's did send a crew out to set up the equipment, they did an incomplete job. Since then, I've had Fry's out here twice more and I still have problems.
I'm in the market for a major home theater setup for my media room. This will represent a much larger investment than the starter set I bought for the family room. For this one, there's no way I will buy anything online OR from a big-box retailer. I'm going to make damn sure that the store I do buy from is there to support me past the initial installation. I'm willing to pay a premium for that kind of service.
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New England baseball fans on suicide watch
The despair in Boston over the Theo Epstein imbroglio continues to swell. Gov. Romney would be well advised to ban sharp objects for the next few weeks.
How not to make Dad proud
The son of the Miami police chief gets busted trying to buy 400 lbs of weed.
Four HUNDRED pounds! That's big even on the Nate Newton scale.
Four HUNDRED pounds! That's big even on the Nate Newton scale.
More genius
From Gizmodo today: The Whovel is one of those obvious things that, as soon as you look at it, you say to yourself, "Why didn't I think of that?"
NHL's Jacques Demers can't read
Former NHL head coach and GM Jacques Demers has announced (via his new book - no link available yet) that he is illiterate.
While not as stunning as coming out of the closet, this is a pretty heavy admission for an NHL tough guy. It's also astonishing that a guy who can't read or write could have the kind of success Demers has enjoyed. Makes you wonder what he would have been capable of had he been literate.
While not as stunning as coming out of the closet, this is a pretty heavy admission for an NHL tough guy. It's also astonishing that a guy who can't read or write could have the kind of success Demers has enjoyed. Makes you wonder what he would have been capable of had he been literate.
Seeking the Sturm Seal of Approval
I've submitted a bid to become an approved blog on Bob Sturm's blogroll. Apparently, I'm under review.
I've told Bob that I am willing to do some sort of mildly degrading blog or radio stunt if that will help speed things along. I don't know what that stunt might be. I'm open to suggestions. Please remember the modifier "MILDLY degrading" when submitting your ideas.
I've told Bob that I am willing to do some sort of mildly degrading blog or radio stunt if that will help speed things along. I don't know what that stunt might be. I'm open to suggestions. Please remember the modifier "MILDLY degrading" when submitting your ideas.
Glued to a toilet
This dude is suing Home Depot because he got glued to a potty in the store's restroom. Apparently, he's not blaming the store for the glue (put there by wacky pranksters), but he is blaming them for ignoring his cries for help.
I have a recurring dream that goes something like this.
UPDATE: Apparently, this isn't the first time Mr. Dougherty has been glued to a toilet. He wants $3 million this time. Very interesting.
I have a recurring dream that goes something like this.
UPDATE: Apparently, this isn't the first time Mr. Dougherty has been glued to a toilet. He wants $3 million this time. Very interesting.
Bugmenot.com goes bye-bye??
Bugmenot, friend of Internet surfers for the past few years, is not there at the moment. Instead, there's a Go Daddy search page and a notice that the domain name expired on 10/29.
Crap!!
The bugmenot service is a boon to anyone who surfs to sites that require registration. It allows you to bypass the entire registration process. This is a huge time- and privacy-saver for bloggers and general surfers.
Hopefully, bugmenot.com will be back shortly. Otherwise, I don't know what I'm going to do!
UPDATE: Bugmenot is back. Thank the good, sweet Lord.
Crap!!
The bugmenot service is a boon to anyone who surfs to sites that require registration. It allows you to bypass the entire registration process. This is a huge time- and privacy-saver for bloggers and general surfers.
Hopefully, bugmenot.com will be back shortly. Otherwise, I don't know what I'm going to do!
UPDATE: Bugmenot is back. Thank the good, sweet Lord.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Katrina's impact made worse by man
This is the last Katrina-related post ever on this blog. I promise. However, I can't let this go by without mentioning it.
An article on this week's NewScientist.com tells us that the man-made Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (a huge channel built to cut 50+ miles off the trip from the Gulf to the Port of New Orleans) funneled Katrina's storm surge right into St Bernard Parish and the Industrial Canal, thus amplifying the flooding in both areas significantly.
Further, an article on Bloomberg today indicates that "poor levee construction worsened Katrina flooding" in the city.
And, last but not least, an AP article reports that Katrina may have only been a Category 3 storm when it made landfall, instead of the Category 4 it had been reported to be at the time. This is bad news for New Orleans (but probably good news for plaintiff's attorneys) in that the New Orleans levee system was supposed to be able to withstand a Category 3 storm.
As mentioned here and in many other places, Katrina was nowhere near the "Doomsday Scenario" that New Orleans had long feared. The next time could be MUCH worse.
UPDATE: From BoingBoing - here are two articles that appeared in Mother Jones questioning why the Ninth Ward has not been rebuilt. Sorry, dudes. The delay is NOT due to a right-wing conspiracy or gentrification or any other hidden agenda. It's being delayed because Katrina was NOT the worst-case scenario, it will happen again, and next time it will be worse!!
God Almighty. THINK, people!!
An article on this week's NewScientist.com tells us that the man-made Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (a huge channel built to cut 50+ miles off the trip from the Gulf to the Port of New Orleans) funneled Katrina's storm surge right into St Bernard Parish and the Industrial Canal, thus amplifying the flooding in both areas significantly.
Further, an article on Bloomberg today indicates that "poor levee construction worsened Katrina flooding" in the city.
And, last but not least, an AP article reports that Katrina may have only been a Category 3 storm when it made landfall, instead of the Category 4 it had been reported to be at the time. This is bad news for New Orleans (but probably good news for plaintiff's attorneys) in that the New Orleans levee system was supposed to be able to withstand a Category 3 storm.
As mentioned here and in many other places, Katrina was nowhere near the "Doomsday Scenario" that New Orleans had long feared. The next time could be MUCH worse.
UPDATE: From BoingBoing - here are two articles that appeared in Mother Jones questioning why the Ninth Ward has not been rebuilt. Sorry, dudes. The delay is NOT due to a right-wing conspiracy or gentrification or any other hidden agenda. It's being delayed because Katrina was NOT the worst-case scenario, it will happen again, and next time it will be worse!!
God Almighty. THINK, people!!
The luckiest &%$# on Earth
Sunjay Devarajan gets pulled out of the AAC crowd by Bono on Saturday night to play "Angel of Harlem" with the U2 lads.
According to the article, he did OK musically, and capped it off by doing the Wayne's World "We're not worthy" bow to Bono. PERFECT, dude!
According to the article, he did OK musically, and capped it off by doing the Wayne's World "We're not worthy" bow to Bono. PERFECT, dude!
CIA's secret prisons
There's a big article in the Washington Post today regarding the CIA's secret prison system. This system is used to house a variety of terrorists captured around the world.
The upshot of the article is the debate within the CIA about the morality and legality of the system. There's an argument to be made for both sides.
I hope no one out there is surprised to learn:
1. That the CIA has a secret prison system for terrorists, or
2. That it is not terribly clear whether the system is legally or morally sound.
Let's think back for a moment to the weeks and months following Sept 11, 2001.
Following the attacks on WTC and the Pentagon, the US government and the overwhelming majority of the population were very clear on the identity of the enemy and the gravity of the threat the enemy posed to us. For the vast majority of us, it was a foregone conclusion that more strikes were on the way, and they would be at least as, if not more, horrific than those we'd already experienced.
This state of rage and fear produced one of the clearest mandates ever given to a US President. Bush had carte blanche to do almost anything he deemed necessary to take the fight to Al Qaeda. If anything, he UNDERestimated the support of the American people for operations in Afghanistan. Many more American troops could have been committed to that effort and they might have made a difference at Tora Bora late that fall. Bin Laden might not have escaped if he'd had to elude the 82nd Airborne, rather than the Northern Alliance.
Around that same time, major Al Qaeda figures started popping up in the custody of the Pakistanis and other nations. Abu Zubaydah, Ramzi Bin al-Shibh, and Khalid Shaikh Mohammed (among others) were seized by a combination of luck and excellent police work. All disappeared from the face of the earth, reportedly turned over to the Americans and taken to "secret locations".
No one uttered a word about this. For myself, I remember thinking, "Those guys are headed for the CIA version of the Soviet-era Lubyanka." And rightly so, I thought at the time. And still do, by the way.
So now, here we are, four-plus years down the road. The American people, as they are wont to do, are beginning to second guess themselves. The expansion of the war into Iraq, agree with it or disagree with it, has taken longer and cost far more than the populace can enthusiastically support. The Bush Administration has not helped themselves very much - the case for war in Iraq was stretched at best, fabricated at worst; the plan for the aftermath of the war was insufficient; Bin Laden has been more elusive than anyone would have expected; etc.
Regardless of why, we are where we are. That does not mean we should forget why some of these things happened and the environment in which these decisions were made. If the facts in the WP article today had come to light in November 2001, they would not have warranted a huge WP article. We would have (almost) all said, "Good. Keep it up."
UPDATE: Interesting. An article on cnn.com today (Nov 8) tells us that Congress is investigating the source for the story referenced above. It may be that classified info was leaked. Hmmm. Stay tuned.
Formula 1 looks to NASCAR for inspiration
I've been an F1 fan since high school. I somehow got my hands on an F1 magazine when I was about 16, read an interview with the great Gilles Villeneuve, and was hooked from then on.
F1 barely registers on the US motorsports consciousness, but it's ENORMOUS just about everywhere else in the world. Part of the problem in the US is that there's about zero name recognition, driver-wise, and about the same brand recognition for the sponsors. All the drivers are tiny little Frenchies or Finns, and what's an ELF or Magneti Marelli?
Another part of the problem in the US market, and an increasing one everywhere else, is that there isn't all that much competition in F1. One or two teams tend to dominate the sport for an entire season or string of seasons. For the past 5 years, no one has been able to compete with Ferrari. This past year, McLaren and Renault won 18 of 19 races.
This lack of competition is partly team dominance, but it's also part car construction. The aerodynamics of F1 cars are such that the lead car has the advantage, and the following car has to be much superior to be able to pass. Compare this to NASCAR, where the following cars actually get a boost from "drafting" and are thus able to pass much more easily, and you see a big difference in the excitement level of the sports.
F1 is looking to change all that by introducing the split rear wing. This article from Wired explains the potential problems that will have to be overcome, not the least of which is less real estate to sell to sponsors. Regardless, I hope FIA mandates this, and returns some competition to the greatest motor racing series on earth.
F1 barely registers on the US motorsports consciousness, but it's ENORMOUS just about everywhere else in the world. Part of the problem in the US is that there's about zero name recognition, driver-wise, and about the same brand recognition for the sponsors. All the drivers are tiny little Frenchies or Finns, and what's an ELF or Magneti Marelli?
Another part of the problem in the US market, and an increasing one everywhere else, is that there isn't all that much competition in F1. One or two teams tend to dominate the sport for an entire season or string of seasons. For the past 5 years, no one has been able to compete with Ferrari. This past year, McLaren and Renault won 18 of 19 races.
This lack of competition is partly team dominance, but it's also part car construction. The aerodynamics of F1 cars are such that the lead car has the advantage, and the following car has to be much superior to be able to pass. Compare this to NASCAR, where the following cars actually get a boost from "drafting" and are thus able to pass much more easily, and you see a big difference in the excitement level of the sports.
F1 is looking to change all that by introducing the split rear wing. This article from Wired explains the potential problems that will have to be overcome, not the least of which is less real estate to sell to sponsors. Regardless, I hope FIA mandates this, and returns some competition to the greatest motor racing series on earth.
Art as camouflage in WWI
In an effort to confuse Uboats in WWI, Allied combatant and merchant ships were painted in a cubist-inspired camouflage known as "dazzle paint" or "razzle dazzle". I don't know how effective it was in its original purpose, but it's quite something to look at now.
Unfortunately, no color photographs of razzle dazzle ships exist, but there are some B&W, as well as some artist renderings here.
Your fun WWI fact for the day. Go take on the world!
Unfortunately, no color photographs of razzle dazzle ships exist, but there are some B&W, as well as some artist renderings here.
Your fun WWI fact for the day. Go take on the world!
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Riots in the Paris burbs
In the 5th consecutive night of rioting, unrest in the predominantly Muslim burbs of Paris has spread to two neighboring towns.
The unrest originally resulted from the accidental deaths of two North African teens who believed they were being chased by the police. The police have said that they were not chasing the youths.
I'm trying really hard to avoid generalizations, so I think I'll stop right here.
UPDATE: Make that six consecutive nights of rioting.
UPDATE UPDATE: Here's something I did not know - apparently, this sort of thing has been going on, albeit in a smaller way, for some time.
The unrest originally resulted from the accidental deaths of two North African teens who believed they were being chased by the police. The police have said that they were not chasing the youths.
I'm trying really hard to avoid generalizations, so I think I'll stop right here.
UPDATE: Make that six consecutive nights of rioting.
UPDATE UPDATE: Here's something I did not know - apparently, this sort of thing has been going on, albeit in a smaller way, for some time.
Those kids today are as dumb as we ever were
A 19 year old Oxford student (I would have thought Oxford students were smarter than this, but then I remembered Bill Clinton attended there) was killed recently after being hurled more than 30 yards by medieval-style trebuchet catapult.
I can remember (or not) several late nights in college when this could have been on the entertainment agenda. It would have been right after metal trash-can tackling but just before fire-escape jumping.
Pictures of the trebuchet here.
I can remember (or not) several late nights in college when this could have been on the entertainment agenda. It would have been right after metal trash-can tackling but just before fire-escape jumping.
Pictures of the trebuchet here.
Crazy business story of the day
Some Chinese outfit that no one has ever heard of has filed paperwork to buy ExxonMobil for $70/share. This comes to $450 billion for the company.
The Chinese are hard-up for oil, and it's not out of the question that the Chinese government is behind King Win Laurel, the company making the offer. SEC rules require some verification of identity to even submit the offer, so it's probably not some nutball in his underwear.
Crazy, but perhaps worth watching.
UPDATE: This is looking more and more like a hoax.
The Chinese are hard-up for oil, and it's not out of the question that the Chinese government is behind King Win Laurel, the company making the offer. SEC rules require some verification of identity to even submit the offer, so it's probably not some nutball in his underwear.
Crazy, but perhaps worth watching.
UPDATE: This is looking more and more like a hoax.
Red Sox on self-destruct. Again.
Theo Epstein has left the GM post in Boston. This comes almost instantly after news that he had signed a new contract.
The reaction in Red Sox Nation is about what you'd expect. Fans seem to blame the club, the media, conspiracy between the two, everyone EXCEPT Epstein.
This makes you realize the extent of the perfect storm we saw in 2004. So many things that NEVER go right for the Red Sox magically fell into place during the championship year.
It appears that things are back to normal on Yawkey Way, and, if that's the case, it's likely to be another 86 years before another World Series win in the Fens.
UPDATE: The gnashing of teeth and rending of garmets only gets worse. The shock has worn off and the true feelings of Red Sox Nation are begining to spew all over.
UPDATE UPDATE: In case you're wondering how Red Sox Nation feels about Theo, and whether any of them blame him for this fiasco, check here.
The reaction in Red Sox Nation is about what you'd expect. Fans seem to blame the club, the media, conspiracy between the two, everyone EXCEPT Epstein.
This makes you realize the extent of the perfect storm we saw in 2004. So many things that NEVER go right for the Red Sox magically fell into place during the championship year.
It appears that things are back to normal on Yawkey Way, and, if that's the case, it's likely to be another 86 years before another World Series win in the Fens.
UPDATE: The gnashing of teeth and rending of garmets only gets worse. The shock has worn off and the true feelings of Red Sox Nation are begining to spew all over.
UPDATE UPDATE: In case you're wondering how Red Sox Nation feels about Theo, and whether any of them blame him for this fiasco, check here.
Airplane tension
Scott Adams (of Dilbert fame) is blogging now, and his post this morning got me thinking a bit.
Adams was apparently on a plane yesterday, sitting next to a guy who figured the flight attendant's instructions to turn off electronic devices didn't really apply to him. He kept banging away on his Blackberry throughout the takeoff. Adams writes about struggling with his options - turn the guy in and suffer thru the tension of sitting next to a pissed-off high-powered executive for the rest of the flight, or ride it out and hope that the Blackberry didn't cause the plane to tumble uncontrollably from the sky.
He went with the latter.
I have sat next to High-Powered Executive Guy (and his relations, I'm More Important Than You Guy and The Rules Don't Apply To Me Guy) a few times on airplanes. What is it with these morons?
I don't really think a PDA or two-way pager is going to crash the plane, but when did rules become arbitrary?
Are these clowns just as cavalier with traffic laws? How about property laws? Do they say things like, "Bob, I know you just spent your life savings on your new dream Ferrari, but, you see, the laws don't really apply to me. So I'm just going to take it for myself."
This is why I am ADAMANTLY opposed to allowing cell phone use on airplanes. More Important Than You Guy will spend the entire flight talking way too loudly on his slick black RAZR about how Charlie has totally screwed up the Smithson account. No doubt he'll be jabbing me in the ribs as he tries to take notes with one hand, and he'll probably do the "Hey, buddy, can you help me out" bit at least once when he drops his pen under his seat.
I am a ride-it-out guy. I have way too many Larry David moments in my life as it is, so I try to avoid the "Curb Your Enthusiasm"-type confrontation when I can. Thus, of my own volition and bad luck, I spend too many flights wrestling between the merits of confrontation vs slamming into the side of a mountain.
No wonder I hate to fly.
Adams was apparently on a plane yesterday, sitting next to a guy who figured the flight attendant's instructions to turn off electronic devices didn't really apply to him. He kept banging away on his Blackberry throughout the takeoff. Adams writes about struggling with his options - turn the guy in and suffer thru the tension of sitting next to a pissed-off high-powered executive for the rest of the flight, or ride it out and hope that the Blackberry didn't cause the plane to tumble uncontrollably from the sky.
He went with the latter.
I have sat next to High-Powered Executive Guy (and his relations, I'm More Important Than You Guy and The Rules Don't Apply To Me Guy) a few times on airplanes. What is it with these morons?
I don't really think a PDA or two-way pager is going to crash the plane, but when did rules become arbitrary?
Are these clowns just as cavalier with traffic laws? How about property laws? Do they say things like, "Bob, I know you just spent your life savings on your new dream Ferrari, but, you see, the laws don't really apply to me. So I'm just going to take it for myself."
This is why I am ADAMANTLY opposed to allowing cell phone use on airplanes. More Important Than You Guy will spend the entire flight talking way too loudly on his slick black RAZR about how Charlie has totally screwed up the Smithson account. No doubt he'll be jabbing me in the ribs as he tries to take notes with one hand, and he'll probably do the "Hey, buddy, can you help me out" bit at least once when he drops his pen under his seat.
I am a ride-it-out guy. I have way too many Larry David moments in my life as it is, so I try to avoid the "Curb Your Enthusiasm"-type confrontation when I can. Thus, of my own volition and bad luck, I spend too many flights wrestling between the merits of confrontation vs slamming into the side of a mountain.
No wonder I hate to fly.
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