Google wary of behavioral targeting in online ads
I think this is great news!
I don't think Yahoo has the same concerns...
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Batman the Dark Knight - teaser trailer
Click the link and leave on your volume, because there is not much to see, but hey, it is a year off!
Also the Warner Brother's site is up: http://thedarkknight.warnerbros.com/
It only posts the logo and when you click the screen you get a campaign add for Harvey Dent.
Very cool
Oscar the "Death Cat" - Cat predicts deaths in nursing home
I know this story is a couple of days old but it's a great story.
Also note a post I made on July 14
http://tenminutemisconduct.blogspot.com/2007/07/new-breath-test-detects-lung-cancer.html
I mentioned that dogs do something similar...
I think it should be explored more scientifically...I know it's out of the norm but why not?
Whoopsy! Swiss teens caught with cocaine disguised as wine
Funny stuff!
These kids are STUPID.
I guess that is why they are drug smugglers.
8KG of cocaine smuggled in 11 bottles of wine...one broke...WHOOOOPSY
The smell of the cocaine alerted the customs officials.
Can anyone tell me what cocaine smells like?
Indian state plants 10 million trees in one day
Ok, two articles in a row about the environment...
But please don't label me a tree-hugging hippie!!!
I still drive my gas guzzling SUV, but this is a great story!
Yet another Gulf Coast "Dead Zone"
Well, this seems to be a recurring theme...
the more I read about this, the more I find it amazing how science fiction becomes science fact...
when I was "Younger" (I won't tell you how young or how old) I read a book called "Last Gasp" by Trevor Hoyle.
It took me a while to find it...Barnes and Noble didn't even have it listed but Amazon did
http://www.amazon.com/Last-Gasp-Trevor-Hoyle/dp/B000BP77SW/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2/102-3516042-5495302?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1185926030&sr=8-2
It was a pretty good book...can't tell you it was great, but after all these years I did remember it, even if Barnes and Noble didn't, so that has to say a lot...
Basically it was an apocolyptic end of the world type book based on the expansion of these "Dead Zones".
Like I said, it's amazing that a book written in 1983 has the basic premise (excluding the rest of the plot!!!) of the book coming true almost 25 years later...
Retired general censured in Tillman case
So he's censured...so damn what!!!
Unless he loses rank he still retires a general and get's to sit on his pension!!!
While I agree there was no attempt at a cover-up by the military/pentagon as a whole...Army Secretary Geren who conducted the investigation stated very clearly that Lt. Gen. Philip Kensinger LIED to investigators to protect himself. That sounds like a cover-up to me even if it is on a personal level!!!!
If he isn't demoted than the investigation was a sham!
I'm sick and tired of the only people that get punished these days are the ones that stand up and say "I screwed up"...the one's that hide things get the time to protect themselves from any real punishment...
Very upsetting...Nuff Said!
House Ethics Bill passes...
Why would anyone vote against this????
The stats say 2 republicans and 6 democrats voted against this...again, I say why?
Abercrombie (D-Hawaii)
Barton (R-Texas)
Boyd (D-Florida)
Clay (D-Missouri)
Cleaver (D-Missouri)
Flake (R-Arizona)
Murtha (D-Pennsylvania)
Tanner (D-Tennessee)
there were also 13 "No Votes"...we'll give them the benefit of the doubt...
Giuliani offers health care plan, also mentions tort reforms
An interesting strategy...actually pretty simple strategy to deal with health care costs.
As with any simple plan it doesn't answer too many questions, but it may allow for an easy discussion for forward movement.
I still think there would have to be some short to intermediate term support for lower income families...
but who knows...there isn't much you can really get from a 1 page article.
I do however like the fact that he wants to target tort reform!
Another "Big" pharma restructuring - This time at J&J
Another big Pharma company has announced a restructuring...in this case the target cuts will affect about 4000 people...
The future of Pharma is in specialty pharmaceuticals and generics
Meditators predict Dow 17,000, near U.S. utopia
What a great idea!
"Through group transcendental meditation the assembly -- which has 1,800 people meditating daily in Iowa ,releases harmonious waves which benefit all aspects of U.S. life, spokesman Bob Roth told Reuters"
"And the group's leader, John Hagelin, said when that number reaches 2,500 within the next 12 months, America will see a major drop in crime and the virtual elimination of all major social and political woes."
They may be a little off their rocker but if it works great! If not there are 1800 people feeling good about themselves.
Either way, it's a success!
Dinosaur discussions
well, I have had one of the best conversations ever today...sitting on the deck...having a cup of coffee (at my new table by the way) and discussing dinosaurs with my son Christopher...
We discussed the following
-The longest dinosaur ever...Seismosaurus
-The tallest...Ultrasaurus
-The smallest...and no...it isn't the compsognathus like one website I found said...Christopher clued me in on the FACT that it's the microceratops which was less than 2 feet tall which is half the size as the compsognathus. How a 4 year old that can't read remembers this stuff is AMAZING to me.
-His favorite is "All of them" and
-He wants to be a paleontologist when he grows up as well!
Great stuff...What a way to start the day!
Would-be shoe-bomber has no regrets
I would think that he has two regrets...
the first is that he's such dope and that he failed miserably on his mission and second I would think he should be regretting his mug shot (see attached).
Maybe someone can answer this little bit of sarcasm for me...Does God give partial credit to failed murderers of innocent people??? If he does give credit does he give it for trying to kill infidels or for failing?
Vegans shun sex with carnivores, says researcher
I don't know if this should be my first post of the day or the last...
Anyone shunning sex is a little strange in my book...but this brings it to a new level.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Lord of the Rings Online - Shadows of Angmar and S of A World Companion
Speaking of games.
I have attached a link to two books written by another friend of mine that are reference manuals to the Lord of the Rings - Shadows of Angmar MMO.
If there was ever an online game you should try, it's this one and these books are a huge help!
The content is amazing and I really enjoy the game play when I get the chance to log on...
Here comes Castle Whiterock!
For all of you old enough to remember and geeky enough to have played rpg's my friend Ken has just finished editing a ginormous (his words) masterpiece of modules...check out his blog for more details and feel free to add on to my comments requesting free copies for all his friends!!!!
Sean Avery has his arbitration hearing
I have the over under for his award a $1.75MM.
I'm pretty disappointed in the Rangers for not getting a deal done over the weekend.
That being said, it is hard to beat them up based on the offseason moves they already made this summer.
Co-defendant: Vick financed dogfighting
Usually the first to "Turn" get the best deal...but people have been known to lie to save their own skin...
I sure hope that Vick can get a fair trial...but this is a pretty damning statement...
Iraqi parliament adjourns for August
They might not be able to run THEIR country without US help, but they sure have taken some lessons from our Government!
Chief Justice Roberts suffers seizure, fall
This is very scary.
Justice Roberts is only 52!!!
They say no cause for concern...but seizures just don't happen without a reason...
Expert: Diabetes drug (Avandia) should be pulled
We'll see if the FDA follows the recommendations of it's advisory committee...
apparently there are heart risks with taking the drug.
Get yours now! Faith based toys to be sold at Wal-Mart
At this point in time the "Faith Based" toys only include Christian Bible figures like a talking Jesus doll and Daniel in the lion's den
I wonder how this will shake out as companies like Wal-Mart, Disney and Target start to exert their political beliefs.
Gingrich predicts Clinton-Obama ticket
Interesting predictions by Newt Gingrich...also some interesting discussion about his possibilities for running as well.
Bush, Brown meet at Camp David
A first meeting between George Bush and Gordon Brown at Camp David...
At least a hunting trip with Cheney isn't on the agenda!!!
Sorry folks...I couldn't resist
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Contador of Spain captures doping-tainted Tour de France
I have to say...who cares?!?!?!?!
But, maybe there is someone out there that does...
Polls show loss for Japan ruling party
This is important to watch...
I am interested to see what kind of impact this election will have on relations with the US, China and Korea...
Taliban leaders set Korean hostage deadline
This is a war that we can't afford to lose.
These people are horrible.
Bloomberg's closet...
Michael Bloomberg, Mayor of NY, has a few skeletons...as do most people.
Many of them have proven to be non-issues in his local elections but with rumors of a run for presidency...who knows how they will be looked at across the country.
I think however his biggest "skeleton" in the closet is that he left the Republican Party and became an independent...that may have the biggest impact of all.
Although, as an independent, he may be able to get more traction that Ross Perot and Ralph Nader...
Aquafina water comes from the tap...
a few years ago we heard that Deer Park Water came out of a spring in the middle of a parking lot...today we hear that Aquafina comes from the tap...
The average municipal charge for water in the NY area is about $15-20 per 1000 gallons...
I would have to guess that Aquafina provides them better margins than Pepsi
More Vick Fallout
Wow...
Pulling memorabilia is one thing, but actually taking your card out of sets for the upcoming year...I don't think I have ever heard of that being done.
Can you imagine what happens to Barry Bonds if there is ever an indictment?
Saturday, July 28, 2007
The Shining
One of the BEST Horror/Thriller movies of all time...
It's 5:00 on a sunny Saturday afternoon and I still don't want to be alone in the room when this movie is on!
REDRUM!!!
Qwest ex-CEO gets 6 yrs prison for insider trading
Amen to this...It's about time these guys get their time in jail.
Rape and Pillage a good company for personal gain and at the expense of hard working people and you deserve jail.
I only wish it were for longer.
Also, I like that he had to forfeit $52MM in illegal gains and was fined $19MM but what about the billions of dollars that was lost on the investors and retirement side??? No fine can ever make that better
Barry Bonds hits 754
Bonds hit 754 and then walked the next 4 times...
I hope someone pitches to him!
1 homer away from tying Hank Aaron.
Dow Jones and S&P - Worst week in 5 years
Down over 500 points in two days on worries about the housing market...
All the consecutive raises by the fed to the interest rates really stalled the economy...
I wish Greenspan didn't retire
Another food recall!!! - Sara Lee recalls 27 brands of bread products
this is getting out of hand...
E-coli, botulism, metal shavings...
I should just start a series of food recall posts...I can fill the blog!
Friday, July 27, 2007
Interesting article on the enviromental "Costs" of green energy
Interesting article, and it does provide some interesting insights.
Simply put, I would have a little concern with the report as it seems to be pretty close minded...
It is very easy to "adjust the math" to get a result that you are looking for.
The first thing I thought of when reading the article was that the study was funded by the Nuclear Power industry
"Flying Wing" takes flight in California
A new and experimental plane that looks like a flying wing has begun live flight testing.
The X-48B has it's engines high up on the fuselage instead of under the wings which should make the plane quieter to passengers and those on the ground during takeoff.
It should also provide greater fuel efficiency because of it's shape and more capacity for passengers.
A top Quote of the Century - Bob Costas ZINGS Barry Bonds
In short Barry called Costas, "little midget man who knows (nothing) about baseball."
Costas responded, "As anyone can plainly see, I'm 5-6 1/2 and a strapping 150, and unlike some people, I came by all of it naturally"
BRILLIANT!!!
Wis. boy's lemonade stand robbed
well this definitely goes under the label "People are horrible"...but, there is hope...
The community response has been pretty positive...
so...what do I do now? Do I add a "Hope for Humanity" label as well?
US space shuttle computer sabotaged: NASA
well...all the "good will" NASA has gained from the Mars rovers and the recent shuttle mission...out the door very quickly!!!
Boy, I feel foolish for giving them any credit just the other day...
Thursday, July 26, 2007
what's the difference??? maybe a few zeros?
A man requested 2 cards for his expiring Mobil credit cards...
Instead of 2 he got 2000 all with his name and account number!!!
You can't just throw those out...poor guy had to spend hours shredding them
Ford posts a profit!!!
after 8 qtrs of losses, Ford has posted a profit...
Amazing!
I didn't think they had it in them.
Let's see if the restructuring continues to drive results.
"New" tape of Bin Laden using old clips
Is he dead or alive?
Is he inaccessible because of health or security reasons.
Some interesting quotes buried in the article...
"It does not matter if bin Laden is dead, alive, sick or captured ... Al Qaeda now is an ideology not a hierarchy. It takes someone like bin Laden to create it but any of his aides can run it now," an Arab diplomat said.
"His death or capture might be a blow to the organization but it is the ideology that needs to be fought, not the person."
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
More US Russian tension on the horizon???
A great article about a Russian expedition to the North Pole...cool in itself, but buried at the bottom of the article is a quick hit on US/Russian tensions...
It's about Russia claiming more waters off it's north cost and the US opposition to such tactics...
Maybe I am reading too much into this but in the relatively near future the Arctic circle will be a huge focus for international tension. As the ice caps melt (initially for part of the year and then for the entire year) there will be more and more competition to gain control of a viable "East/West" passage that would cut weeks off of shipping times from China to Europe and the East coast of the US.
yet another instance of tension with Russia...also see my post about troop reductions in Europe if you haven't read it yet.
Curt Schilling calls out Bonds and Mcgwire
On the baseball diamond this guy is a competitor.
I admire his approach to the game...
but boy does he yap a lot...
I see lots of his points but is it his place to say anything???
Simply put, if anyone is going to say anything it should be Bud Selig...and he is proven he is a waffler in the grandest sense.
Study: Obesity is Socially Contagious
The article says that when the scale tips to "obese" for one person, their friends have a 50% increased chance of becoming obese themselves.
I know it is true at our house...we tend to cook tons when our friends come over
Oh, btw it also says the opposite is true too!!!
Sorry for the slow down...
Well, I am sorry for the slowdown in posts today...
We had such a HORRIBLE Experience with Fortunoffs in regards to our patio furniture...
It's a long story for another day but in short, we returned EVERYTHING and have decided NEVER to visit that store again...
So, now it is the middle of the summer and we don't have any furniture for our nice new deck...
To solve that problem...today was BUILDING DAY!
I built a base for a table...I am very proud of it but I have to put the top on and actually figure out how to get it up on to the deck...it's about 400 lbs...
Pictures will follow when I am done ...if it looks good.
hehehehe
European Heatwave
well, I had another conversation the other day where a friend said that global warming didn't exist...
As you can imagine, I was a little surprised by this comment.
I'm open to discussing how bad, what impacts humans are having, trending of natural events etc. but I can't sit and discuss that there just isn't anything happening...
What I think would really help move the discussion of environmental issues forward is to essentially stop using the term "Global Warming" (it's politicized and is almost as touchy a subject as religion and abortion) and start discussing the topic in terms of how much it will cost people in the future.
Simply put, if you are a "Non-Believer" and some says global warming...you tend to hear "Global Warming...blah...blah...blah" However, if someone were to say that rising temperatures will cost you $400/year in extra cooling costs for your house, the frozen corn you put on your table will now cost $6/lb, Milk will cost $8/gal and orange juice...just forget about it...you may be more interested in the conversation.
29000 names deleted by Myspace - Sex Offenders
First of all...that number is astounding!!!!
Second of all...why did it take legal action to get Myspace to do this???
Tobacco may be put under FDA control
I wonder how this will really help get people to quit smoking, but it's an interesting approach.
Besides that, I wonder where the opposition comes from.
An industry that kills approximately 400k people a year really should be regulated a little bit more than saying they can't advertise to minors...wouldn't you think???
Please don't take this as support for the FDA...
Chinese ‘elephant man’ undergoes surgery
By request...and I am SO GLAD they don't have pictures attached...but this poor man had part of a 33lb tumor removed from his face!!!
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
The Victory Caucus
A great website that I was clued in on at the Further West
per the website at the Victory Caucus:
"With this new design, we hope to come closer to our goal of being a one-stop-shop for anyone interested in learning about what's really going on in the war."
A lot of great features as well as links to articles
Starbucks raising U.S. drinks prices next week
Well, I can't say I am surprised...
Starbucks had me "blinded" by what is called..."Irrational Brand Loyalty"
First I "weened" myself off of Starbucks coffee by switching to regular old deli coffee and finally on to my single cup Kuerig B70 Platinum!!! What a great product!
Here is a link to review it...
http://www.keurig.com/b70.asp?mscsid=9B5U03VB1V018MRWPX1UDPF7DLFQ3QM2
if you decide to buy, let me know...I can send you a coupon that can get us both FREE coffee
An underwater city under Alexandria found
Underwater remnants of a city at Alexandria has been found.
Alexandria was founded by Alexander the great around 300 BC and these ruins have been dated to 700 years before he visited Egypt on his way to conquering the known world at the time.
Bud Selig to TRY to attend Bonds record breaking homerun
Well I am glad that the Commissioner of Baseball has finally made up his mind to do what should have never been in doubt.
One of, if not the most important baseball record is about to be broken and he is casting a shadow on it. At least a bigger shadow than is already there...
Either show up or not. Be clear. Be concise. Don't waffle on the topic. If you (and I mean Bud Selig) think that Barry is guilty than HAMMER HIM and send him home like the NFL has done to Vick. If not shut your mouth and go to the game...clap like mad and hand him his plaque.
either way, it may not be an issue. The only legitimate reason that Selig should miss this weekend's game is going on...the Hall of Fame induction
The Seven Daughters of Eve - Bryan Sykes
For those of you interested in geneology...here is a great book.
Very informative...without putting you asleep or bogging you down in the science of our genetic roots...
At the end of the "lesson" is a great section of fiction based on his findings...Sykes prepares a quick storyline as a description of when and where 95% of Europe's genepool comes from.
great job and well worth the read.
Space tourist trip to space goes up from $25MM to $40MM
Got $40MM?
I am not sure if I would have the courage to do this even if I had the money...
more power to them!
Emery, Senators avoid salary arbitration, agree to $9.5 million, 3-year deal
great stuff...only a few more months before hockey starts!
hehehehe
Couple locked up boy during Packers game
they locked the boy up with a loaf of bread, peanut butter and jelly and a bucket to use as a bathroom so that they could watch a packers game!
Horrible on so many levels!!!
Mars Rovers still ticking
the mars rovers are still kicking...14 times longer than expected and it looks like the rovers will survive the latest dust storms on Mars.
If this doesn't bring you some confidence in NASA, I don't know what will.
Greek mastodon find 'spectacular'
longest tusks ever found...and they point out straight instead of curling upwards...
vary cool...
Poll: Coastal residents won't evacuate
an interesting article that states that only one in three people polled within 20 miles of the coast would evacuate during a hurricane warning...
I wonder what these numbers looked like before Katrina
Monday, July 23, 2007
FDA says food recall is urgent health threat
80 types of stew, chili, hash (no not the drug!!) and pet foods made by Castleberry Foods have been recalled due to a botulism outbreak.
Check your cabinets and read the article.
Pentagon rethinks troop cuts in Europe
interesting turn of events.
I think this has everything to do with current relations with Russia...
A very bad turn of events...
Ex-Brown Stiles dies; at 100, was oldest former major leaguer
What a great quote in this story...
Speaking of pitching to Babe Ruth, Stiles said "I had a great game against him, I held him to three hits."
Class acts...
Well, when I look over to the left of my blog and see the various labels and breakdown of posts that I have added, I see that I am a little "Light" on class acts...
SO, please feel free to nominate a few that so I can add them to the blog!
Comments please!!!!
Rev. Sharpton backs idea on rap lyrics
This is an interesting article...and a good idea...
I don't always agree with Sharpton's tactics...but he may be on target with this one...
Removing tax payer support for companies that won't clean up their acts when it comes to denigrating lyrics...
Free speech is a right that should not be infringed upon, but there is no reason to support it with taxpayer dollars in these cases.
Polamalu, Steelers sign 4-year extension
In honor of Ginny at Whiskey Rebel...
Here is some more good news for her Pittsburgh Steelers!
http://musingsofawhiskeyrebel.blogspot.com/
Police Called To Home Of NBA Ref Donaghy
After betting on games he officiated, and possibly involving other officials or players and the mob...I can imagine that there are quite a few people who would like to keep him quiet
well, I can't say I am surprised that this man is now worried about his safety and the safety of his family.
I have to believe at this point his new best friends are the FBI investigators that are looking into his discretions.
The fallout from this has just begun...
Astronaut tosses station's space junk
A spacewalking astronaut tossed two large chunks of junk off the international space station Monday
One item was a 1400 lb. amonia tank and the other a 200 lb. camera mount...
In about 10-11 months they should re enter the atmosphere.
I read elsewhere that they don't know where the debris will come down.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Lester to start for Red Sox on Monday
While I am a Yankee fan and the Yanks are in desperate need of a few wins and corresponding losses by the Red Sox, tomorrow may be a day that I root for the Sox.
I know...I know...many of you may find this hard to believe, but this is a "Feel Good Story" and the lord knows I want to feel good.
Jon Lester is set to return to the mound for the Red Sox on Monday, nearly a year after his rookie season was cut short when he was diagnosed with cancer.
-------------------------------------------------
update 9:35pm 7/23
Lester just left the game after 6 innings (Sox leading 5-2) stats:
2 ER, 6k, 1hr and 96 pitches...great job.
V for Vendetta
Synopsis - A shadowy freedom fighter known only as "V" uses terrorist tactics to fight against his totalitarian society.
What a great movie.
It is interesting though that the "hero" of the film is a terrorist.
"One man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter"
I wonder what form this film would have taken before 9/11 and what differentiates the terrorist from the freedom fighter????
Ken of Ghastria
Another good friend of mine has a live journal blog where he posts comments about (in his words) Comments on role-playing games, pop culture, and the grand wackiness of "24"
He is also up for a few awards for game supplements that he edited at Goodman games.
Dungeon Crawl Classics #35: Gazetteer of the Known Realms, nominated for Best Setting and Best Cartography
Etherscope: Upload: Etherpunk, nominated for Best Supplement and a HUGE nomination for Best d20/OGL Product
If you are interested in roleplaying games (or just plain feel like voting for a friend) you can go here to vote:
http://www.ennieawards.com/index.html
Russ Feingold wants to censure George Bush
Simply put Russ Feingold is a disruption
He doesn't even have the support of his own party.
Get back to work and try and get something done is all I have to say to this guy.
nuff said
Al Leiter - Class Act
I'm lounging on the couch on a beautiful sunny day watching the NY Yankees trounce the tampa Devil Rays and listening to Al Leiter as color commentator...
What a class act!
Great baseball player, great commentator and great stories.
In a side note, Alex Rodriguez hit his 34th homer and batted in his 99th RBI...it's only JULY 22nd!!!!!
Musings of a whiskey rebel
If you notice the top left corner of my blog, I have a section labeled "In the Box!"
It is where I have links to other blogs of interest.
I have just added "Musings of a Whiskey Rebel" to the list and look forward to reading it regularly.
Ginny D has been a regular commenter on some of my posts and I'm looking forward to return the favor!
Chihuahua saves 1yr old from a rattlesnake
Ok, so I am usually posting crabby stories about stupid and horrible people, but here is a story about a little Chihuahua that jumped in and took several bites from a rattlesnake to protect a 1 year old boy.
Great news...the dog survived, and the boy wasn't hurt!!!
No word on what happened to the rattlesnake...
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Smith believes investigators are using Vick to get at others
a very interesting article.
One that I was initially disappointed in when I saw the headline.
Why would a NFL Hall-of-Famer expose himself to the backlash of defending Vick?!?!?!
Who knows, but Smith makes a few good points at the end of the article so it's worth the read.
David Beckham's impact on US Soccer (or Futbol)
while he might not play in the first game with his new team...he already has had an impact.
ESPN has basically set aside the night to televise a show about Beckham and the game.
I don't remember ever seeing a Soccer game on ESPN before...
Friday, July 20, 2007
One Laptop per child - Part I
I know the story is old, but a few weeks ago, I read an article about a Nigerian school without electrical power getting a donation of 300 laptops. As you can imagine, I was amazed that better planning wasn't put into this...but I guess I shouldn't have been surprised...
One Laptop per child - Part II
As a follow up to my prior post...it appears the bad planning of sending laptops to a school without electricity has actually been shown to be worse.
The dopes forgot to put internet "Filters" on the computers to keep the kids from browsing PORN!!!
Just plain stupid on a multitude of levels!
From Wales, a box to make biofuel from car fumes
Three fishing buddies say they have developed a box which can be fixed underneath a car in place of the exhaust to trap the greenhouse gases blamed for global warming -- including carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide -- and emit mostly water vapor.
Exciting claim!
Does it work?
Who knows?!?!?!
In a twist of intrigue, after every demonstration the three friends split the components up in pieces and put them in hiding, with each person knowing only their piece of the pie...
No one else has seen has ever seen the inside of the box...
Thursday, July 19, 2007
24 hours 15 minutes to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
No spoiler here...sorry!
But...there are only 24 hours left to the launch of the final installment of the Harry Potter series...
For all of those who are hiding in the closet until delivery comes so no one spoils the ending...
It's almost here!!!
Teen Girls Accused Of Setting Kitten Ablaze
People are horrible sometimes and it's really scary when they are horrible as kids!
Most people get worse as they get older.
I hope they get the three years
Great exchange of comments at The Further West
A great exchange over at the Further West in regards to a "discussion" between Jim Webb and Lindsay Graham about the path of the Iraq war.
Well worth the read as are the other posts on the blog.
Viking treasure hoard uncovered
A father and son using metal detectors found a treasure "hoard" dating back to the 10th century.
Pretty amazing to find so much and intact.
A side note...the father and son will split the proceeds with the landowner if you are concerned about things like that...
Baseball Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn To Appear On Wheaties Box
I just saw Baseball Hall-of-Famer Tony Gwynn on ESPN First Take.
What a class act.
If there was ever a sports figure you want your kids to look up to...he's it.
As for the Wheaties box...WHAT TOOK SO LONG????
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Basic Science Fiction Library
If you are a fan of science fiction this is a GREAT list of classic science fiction books and authors put together by James Gunn.
When you aren't sure what to read next...here is a great resource!
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
What a great movie.
I can't wait to watch it with my kids when they get older.
7 kids removed from squalid Texas home
Dirty diapers 4ft high in closets!!!
Not much else to say here besides people are horrible.
Sometimes it amazes me that you need a license to get married, but not to have kids after you get married.
Eat a steak, warm the planet
A kilogram (2.2 pounds) of beef causes more greenhouse-gas and other pollution than driving for three hours while leaving all the lights on back home, according to a Japanese study.
I have to tell you...if I can't eat a 2lb steak every once in a while, I may get a little bit crabbier!!!
Star Trek - Episode 14 "Balance of Terror" (1966)
Another bout of insomnia last night had me listening to a live feed of the World Series of Poker and watching my favorite episode of the original Star Trek series "Balance of Terror"
Essentially it is submarines in space, but it was my favorite show.
If you ever see it on, I suggest watching!!!
Unless of course, Bridges of Madison County is more your style! hehehehehe
'Sweet herb' (Stevia) may be green gold for Paraguay
The herb Stevia (why bother with the full Latin name????) is native to Paraguay and may be the future of competition for sugar.
It is a natural herb that has a long list of beneficial properties, being an anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and an anti-bacterial agent useful in the battle against diabetes, high blood pressure and tooth decay. On top of that it's 300 times sweeter than sugar and NO CALORIES!!!
That being said, of course the FDA has restricted it's use in the US.
Only drugs that cause heart-attacks are approved by the agency that is swayed by lobbyists and industry paid consultants...in this case the sugar industry. (Sorry about that little bit of anger tinged commentary...)
Doctors, Democrats scrutinize September 11 dust
Doctors and Democrats are reviewing the impacts of this environmental disaster.
It still looks like there is more fall out to follow, and that will be political in nature.
The finger pointing has already started and the lightning rod seems to be firmly in the hands of Christie Whitman (Ex-Gov. of NJ and Environment Secretary of the EPA).
Earlier this year, a federal judge ruled that Whitman knowingly LIED to New York residents about their health risks. The case is now under appeal
World Series of Poker - No Limit Texas Hold'em Main Event 2007 - Part II
SPOILER ALERT!!!
Well at 6:00AM the new champion of the 2007 WSOP No limit Texas Hold'em main event was crowned.
it was Jerry Yan and he won $8.25MM not a bad two weeks of work!
the other payouts were:
2. Tuan Lam $4,840,981
3. Raymond Rahme $3,048,025
4. Alexander Kravchenko $1,852,721
5. Jon Kalmar $1,255,069
6. Hevad (RainKhan) Khan $956,243
7. Lee Childs $705,229
8. Lee Watkinson $585,699
9. Phillip Hilm $525,934
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Islamic Creationist and a Book Sent Round the World
An article by Cornelia Dean of the NYTimes...
An Islamic creationist is mailing a lavishly illustrated, 800-page attack on evolutionary theory to scientists around the world.
Great article...
Whole Foods CEO "sorry" for anonymous Web posts
So, the CEO of a public company posts comments about his company and about potential acquisition targets on Yahoo bulletin boards!!!
He was quoted as saying:he "posted on Yahoo! under a pseudonym because I had fun doing it. Many people post on bulletin boards using pseudonyms."
Are you kidding me???
What a monumental DOPE.
He won't be CEO for long...and probably will be sued out the WAZOOO...not to mention the possibility of charges
A survival imperative for the Human Race
In 1993, J. Richard Gott III computed with scientific certainty that humanity would survive at least 5,100 more years but less than 7.8MM years...
He has been surprisingly accurate and has used his formulas to predict the longevity of Broadway shows, newspapers, and political leaders around the world.
Not too scary?
Sounds optimistic???
He has issued a wakeup call and says that we need to have colonized another planet within 46 years otherwise the number shrinks.
What a great article and interesting thinking.
Even though I vaguely understand the math, I wholeheartedly agree!
We need to move "Up" and out before something happens!
Spanish dad loses visitation rights after taking son to bull run
So, you are saying that running the bulls with your son at the annual festival in Pampalona, Spain doesn't sound too bad huh?
The kid was 10!!!!
Not only is he an idiot, but he said he would do it again!!!!
New Home Sentiment sinks - 16 Year Low
The index that tracks new home buyer sentiment has sunk to a 16 year low with a rate of 24.
27 was the expected rate with 50 being a positive opinion.
One has to wonder about the continued rise in gas/fuel prices, drop in the housing market and increase in consumer debt...
When does the Fed decide to start lowering rates, because inflation excluding Fuel/energy and Healthcare just isn't there?!?!?!?
Cop shot with his own Taser
This may seem funny...but it isn't really...read the second sentence.
He was shot with the taser when he stopped at his home to use the bathroom ON HIS WAY to a burglary.
I'm not sure what he was thinking...
A Brazilian Crew kills 83 dolphins and then jokes about it - People are Horrible Part II
A Brazilian crew kills 83 dolphins to use as shark bait.
Not only is it against the law...
It's filmed...
AND they joke about it!!!
1 1/2 years per offense. I hope they go to jail as well.
Vick indicted for dog fighting - People are horrible part I
He was finally indicted after all these months for sponsoring illegal dogfighting at his home in VA
All I can say is that I hope he goes to jail!
At the very least a lengthy suspension when the NFL Commish gets ahold of htis...
People are horrible...
Possible Link to Lucy's Ancestors Found
No, this isn't your Aunt Lucy, but she is part of your family tree!
It looks like scientists have found a link between Lucy's species (Australopithecus afarensis) and a predecessor--Australopithecus anamensis.
This brings a clear path of our origins back to about 4.2MM years.
Great stuff and very interesting
The Further West
My Oldest and Best Friend Chris has started a blog of his own...
The Further West
Please visit it.
It's an eclectic mix of politics, religion, sports and even fishing.
Well worth a regular visit.
Libya lifts death sentences on medics in HIV case
In what amounts to extortion, Libya held 5 Bulgarian nurses and a Palestinian Doctor "Hostage" for the past 8 years.
They were accused of intentionally infecting 460 children with HIV.
"Confessions" were obtained through torture.
Well, they finally got thier bribe for $460MM and it looks like they will be releasing them shortly.
It sets a very bad precedence by paying them.
BTW...the organization paying: the Benghazi International Fund, which is financed by the European Union, United States, Bulgaria and Libya.
I doubt Libya will be paying any share of this...
Source Associates - George Allen
If you are in a finance/accounting/IT related position in the Northeast (NJ and NY)...and looking for a new position...I suggest contacting George Allen at Source Associates.
He's been a huge help and sounding board.
A quality professional that doesn't hound you.
Give him a call and let him know who you are.
World Series of Poker - No Limit Texas Hold'em Main Event 2007
Today is the beginning of the end of the Main event. The 2007 No Limit Texas Hold'em Main Event.
It starts at 12PM PST...so keep an eye on the news for the winner.
There are nine players at the final table. Many of them amatuers, with one player quiting his full time job to play in the tournament...With payouts from $525k to 8.25MM for the last 9 seats, it seems like he made a great call!
I can't wait to see it on TV!!!
Florida starts to raise artificial reefs
in a perfect example of "Nice Try but BAD results" Florida dumped hundreds of thousands of used tires off the coast in an attempt to build artificial coral reefs.
In the years since (40+) the tires have killed surrounding reefs and marine life.
It could take years to fix, so if you like to dive and want to get paid for it...I bet there is a job there for you...for quite a long time.
In a time of global warming and environmental destruction, how can we know what impact of some of the attempts to alter the environment in a positive way...simply, we just don't know what we are doing beyond the simple fact...we ARE having an impact.
China to Zap rain clouds ahead of Olympic games
China has guaranteed a rain free olympics in 2008...Considering the country is usually deep in a water crisis, this may not be too hard to do...
However, the start of the olympics coincides with Bejing's rainy season so China plans to fire rockets at rain clouds in hopes to disperse them before they disrupt the ceremonies.
It is an interesting approach. An approach that I can see many scientists and countries watching to see what the outcome is.
This could impact water shortages in the future...for good and bad.
"Preference" poll - 4 Days left...
With 4 days left...it seems that "Taking a bullet in the leg..." is gaining momentum.
There was one lone person (I think I know who it was) that picked watching Bridges of Madison county...and I commend her decision...for a person that wouldn't hurt a fly, I am sure she had a little difficulty in making that call!!!!
I am interested in hearing what kind of discussion with Michael Moore would take place...would it be "Inquiring minds want to know" or similar to the CNN Sanjay Gupta exchange on Larry King???
As for Al Gore...BLEH!
--------------------------------------------
Current Results:
Discussing his "Invention" of the internet with Al Gore 1 (10%)
Discussing how to save the world with Michael Moore 2 (20%)
Watching Bridges of Madison County 1 (10%)
Taking a bullet in the leg 6 (60%)
Monday, July 16, 2007
The $54MM pant lawsuit that just won't die
Judge Roy Pearson is back at it again...trying to harrass the Chungs again.
this has been going on way too long and shows the litigous nature of our society and the lack of protection for people from frivolous lawsuits.
This guy's case was pretty harshly slapped down by Judge Bartnoff in June and again today.
Hopefully Judge Bartnoff will grant the Chung's request and require Pearson to pay their legal fees of $83k (and growing)...
I expect this dope who is off his rocker to file an appeal very shortly...and...more money down the drain...the Chungs' money and taxpayer dollars...
disgraceful
Buy it now on EBAY - a solution to the Iraq war
Update...this auction seems to have been cancelled and a few others popped up...I guess the Pentagon didn't like the idea...
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Captnabil (who has 100% positive feedback btw) has offered up a solution to the Iraq War on Ebay!!!
last I checked the current bid was in excess of $5300 and looks to go higher...
the Buy it Now price is set at $5MM...strangely inexpensive considering the current administration is spending $12B (yes BILLION) a month trying to figure it out.
For those of you thinking that $5MM is for the Plan only...I agree...and the follow-up question is...what is the figure for implementation???
Elvis seen in a rock???
LaDell Alexander sees an image of Elvis (who died in 1977) in her favorite pet rock!!!
It is a new spin on the Jesus Toast and should fetch a mint on EBAY when the list it for sale.
The over/under bet for bidding is $16,200.
It will probably be won by some internet company or maybe even Michael Jackson...
Canadian passengers sue TB flier
I'm glad this has started.
This guy flaunted his knowledge of the system to fly and drive all over Europe, and the United States so he can go on his wedding, while potentially infected with drug resistant TB.
He put MILLIONS of people at risk.
As a personal injury attorney, If someone walked into his office and asked him to represent them in a case like this he would jump all over it with little $ signs going off in the back of his head!
Andrew Speaker! Don't forget that name. He should have been put in jail for reckless endangerment. One charge for every person on every flight he took.
Now, don't get me wrong...the CDC and the border patrol DROPPED the ball on this one making it easier for this dope to do what he did.
Phillies franchise loses 10000th game
It took 125 years but they made it!!!
They are 329 games ahead (in the loss column) of the Braves...
But the Braves have the record for losing world series...don't they?
ouch...
Largest replica Viking ship ever tries an ocean crossing from Norway to Ireland
A replica viking ship, said to be the largest replica ever, is attempting to make a 1000 mile journey from Norway to Ireland...
With an estimated arrival some time in August, I'll be watching the news for details.
The Good, The Bad and the Ugly
Worth the watch...even at 3:45AM
Italian title - Buono, il brutto, il cattivo, Il (1966)
Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, Lee Van Cleef
nuff said
Al Franken is no joke
Minnesota - Former Comedian (although he's probably still has a sense of humor) Al Franken has outpaced the incumbent Republican Senator Norm Coleman in fundraising for the second quarter.
He's raised over $2MM and seems to be running a formidable grass roots campaign.
That being said, the incumbent still has much more cash on hand.
Franken's ability to raise cash has been a suprise, although some of it has come from his Hollywood contacts.
We'll see if there is any backlash due to his ties to Hollywood and his past as a comedian
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Futurama - What a Great Show
Waiting for new shows...rumored to happen on the Cartoon Network in 08...
Futurama - Bender's Big Score (First full length feature) is currently in production as well.
In the immortal words of Bender if you don't agree you can "Bite my shiny metal ass!"
Not so Extinct after all - Long Beaked Echidna
The Long Beaked Echinda may still be alive and kicking.
It's an interesting species in that it is one of only five egg laying mammal species (Monotremes).
Similar to the Duck-Bill Platypus...it may have been around since the time of the dinosaurs.
An expedition next year to Papua's Cyclops Mountains hopes to obtain pictures.
LA Cardinal apologizes to plaintiffs in clergy sex abuse cases
Cardinal Roger Mahoney, leader of the US' largest Roman Catholic archdiocese apologized Sunday to the hundreds of people that would share in a $660MM settlement agreed to this week.
a few points...
1) the archdiocese will release personnel files after review by a Judge. If there was any hiding of facts or protection of clergy it may be brought to light
2) the Cardinal was not required to make the public apology...it isn't much but it's a start
3) the lawyers will get $264MM...AND expenses!
4) should there be discussion regarding not allowing clergy to marry???
Avoiding Jury Duty Part II - Hiding an MP3 under your hijab!!!
In a related story to the dope that tried so hard to avoid jury duty he got himself arrested...
This dope in London, hid an MP3 player under her hijab and was listening to it instead of testimony in a MURDER trial!!!!!!
Send her to jail!!!!!!
I can't wait to see the news of this on July 23rd when penalties (if any) are imposed.
Avoiding Jury Duty - Part I - Going to jail
This dope from Cape Cod testified in court, to the judge no less, that he was a racist, frequently a liar, hated homosexuals AND that he was trying to avoid jury duty!
Thank you Judge Gary Nickerson for having him held in contempt of court.
It may be a pain in the neck some times...but it's our responsibility!!!!
Presidential Fundraising Results
Interesting List.
It doesn't list to top Democratic hopefuls.
But, it does list Thompson who isn't yet a candidate...at least he hasn't announced yet!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
New breath test detects lung cancer
Amazing.
A breath test that can detect lung cancer.
Pretty impressive and a great advancement.
If it is cheap and effective (even effective enough to force further tests) it could be a huge advancement.
Maybe part of a yearly checkup????
Interesting side comment...dogs have been able to do this and I am sure other animals as well...but not too convenient to have a dog for every doctor's office!!!
Amy Polumbo Keeps the Miss NJ Crown
Amy Polumbo gets to keep the Miss NJ Crown based on a decision by the pageant after reviewing anonymous photos of Miss Polumbo.
A blackmailer threatened to expose some photos unless Polumbo resigned her crown.
I'm really not sure why this is news...but it does say something about this society.
Not only can you not make mistakes as an adult, you can't make them as a kid either.
In this day and age, everything that you do lasts forever.
No wonder why people hide everything they do, move from place to place so no one knows their name, and in the bigger picture it is no wonder why we have the politicians we do.
No normal person that has lived a life full of mistakes, and learning from experience would expose themselves to the scrutiny public figures receive.
No one is perfect and the ones that appear to be really scare me...they are just better at hiding things than everyone else.
On one side is someone that probably can't relate to me (the ones that have lived life without making a mistake)...on the other is someone I don't want to relate to!
Report Card on Iraq War
interesting read...however, "Satisfactory", "Mixed" and "Unsatisfactory" are a little vague as grading goes.
I am concerned that the categories that would allow for the transition from American troops to Iraqi forces are mostly unsatisfactory.
Edwards-Clinton exchange
Democratic Presidential hopefuls Edwards and Clinton were overheard discussing their efforts to limit the number of candidates in future Democratic debates.
While no one should be surprised that these discussions take place, having them within earshot of broadcasters with electronic devices is not too bright?!?!?!
It shows a lack of judgement for two "Seasoned" professionals.
Ichiro Suzuki - Class act
Ichiro Suzuki - Class act and a great baseball player...even without the intangibles he is well worth every penny.
Congratulations but too bad he isn't going to be a Yankee!
Go Endeavor...or Endeavour
NASA put up a banner that misspelled Endeavour...funny in a way...but scary in others.
If spelling is an issue, along with translation of metric to English measurements...what else is there to be worried about?
New Bin Laden video calls for martyrdom
Why doesn't this guy take his own advice???
I believe his approach is..."You all should die for my beliefs!"
Friday, July 13, 2007
Retail Slump hints at a "tired" consumer
Retail sales posted their steepest drop in nearly two years...
Analysts expected a minimal 0.1% gain, but the results showed a 0.9% drop.
This all seems to be related to gasoline and the housing market.
Consumers seem to be running out of steam.
we'll see what happens in the near future and how this affects mortgage rates over the next few months...
Rooftops the key to energy goals???
an "older" article...but an interesting idea..."sell" your rooftop to the utility company so they can put solar panels on them....
intriguing...the average solar system for a residence is in excess of 30k...most homeowners can't afford that...
Gary Sheffield
What a dope....
I have to respect the fact that he says what is on his mind...the only problem is that I think he's a little bit of a problem...
He's had problems EVERYWHERE he has been...or the way he puts it...EVERYONE ELSE has had the problems...
I can't agree or disagree about his comments because simply there is no way of knowing...that said...when someone makes that comment about Derek Jeter that Jeter is "Black and White" and that "...it's just you ain't all the way black" it leads me to believe that he's the one that can't get past the color issue...
it's a shame it's a discussion for so many reasons.
The Met's Julio Franco designated for Assignment
He's 48 years old and has played 23 years in the bigs, for 7 different teams...hasn't had too much activity this year but had been productive coming off the bench.
He has desires to play baseball until he is 50 but that may be in jeopardy.
Good look to him in finding a team!
Peter Weller - Engineering an Empire
In line with my last post and speaking of famous people that have returned to school.
Peter Weller has a Masters Degree in Roman and Renaissance Art and is hosting the show Engineering an Empire on the History Channel.
Monday's 9PM EST
Great Show!
Robocop discussing history is much more exciting than I remember from school!
Kudos to Brian May - Guitarist for one of the Greatest Bands in History!
Kudos to Brian May who has finished his thesis for a PHD in Physics after 30 years!
$252MM stolen from a bank in Iraq!
You have to be kidding me?
This is a gross misconduct and someone needs to be sent to the box for this one!!!
Why was there $252MM in US dollars in a bank in Iraq?
More done today to raise funds for insurgents since the first days of the war...
The Foo Fighters
Very cool discussion on the etymology of the name Foo Fighters...
Fast moving, erratically flying objects first documented during World War II.
One theory is that they were UFO's.
Small town politics in a Blue State is as close to hell as you can get
Purgatory is trying to find sanity in small town politics!
You are at the Gates of Hell when trying to find sanity in small town politics in a Blue State!!!
Nuff said!
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