My World

Bright Lights Film Journal | Attack of the Clones

2005-11-02T11:10:00.000-05:00

Link to the article

This is a fun read and view on the movie the Attack of the clones. I first saw it on Slashdot, and really enjoyed taking a look at it. More comments on this later, but I need to get to work now!

Sprint, cable companies form venture

2005-11-02T09:35:00.000-05:00

Sprint, cable companies form venture

this is quite impressive. What's nice for me is that I already use sprint for my cell, and Time Warner for my cable and highspeed internet...

Together, the companies plan to package video, wireless voice and data services, high-speed Internet and cable-phone service and sell them in Sprint stores and other retail locations.

Russia says opposes use of force against Iran

2005-08-17T08:39:00.000-04:00

Russia says opposes use of force against Iran

good! we don't need to get involved with that! a war there is not one we would do well in.... too many mountains... it's not like Iraq; and we're good but we're not the Greeks fighting Xerces here...

Welcome to Project Gutenberg - Project Gutenberg

2005-08-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Project Gutenberg - Project Gutenberg

This is an amazing site with tons of free reading material; like all of Lincoln's writings; to books like Rob Roy. The whole spectrum of public domain works in over 50 languages. This is amazing stuff!!!

My Way News- Man Dies After 49 Hours of Computer Games

2005-08-10T09:26:00.000-04:00

My Way News - Man Dies After 49 Hours of Computer Games

Sad... of course... but kind of funny, isnt it?

Bush Signs Overhaul of U.S. Energy Policy

2005-08-09T12:40:00.000-04:00

Bush Signs Overhaul of U.S. Energy Policy
This is a spet in teh right direction, but not the solution. Still, at least it's something. The truth is that we need more research into alternate fuel sources. The fact is that we rely on oil too much, and we need to start building a better, more diverse, infrastructure. Since no one can satisfacturally come up with a reasonable alternative(s) to oil, then more research is needed. A lot of progress is being made, ubt not enough...

The Australian: Uranium exports to China on the table [August 10, 2005]

2005-08-09T12:33:00.000-04:00

The Australian: Uranium exports to China on the table [August 10, 2005]

yeah... just try to keep them from weaponizing it... the weapons are pointing here after all....

The Australian: Cleric on run from bomber inquiry [August 10, 2005]

2005-08-09T12:30:00.000-04:00

The Australian: Cleric on run from bomber inquiry [August 10, 2005]
It's about time the Brits got rid of the bum. Good on him for saving the Brits the time and money to deport his ass. Good riddens.

Syria has warned he could face prosecution if he attempts to return to his homeland.

And... Good on Syria for threating him with prosecution if he attempts to return hom. Enough of this garbage. I'm all for dissent, but this bum is not about dissent, but WAR. So send him packing, and I hope the door hit him in the ass on his way out!!!

Redesign Is Seen for Next Craft, NASA Aides Say - New York Times

2005-08-02T13:29:00.000-04:00

Redesign Is Seen for Next Craft, NASA Aides Say - New York Times
Although not elegent, I do support this simple solution for the shuttle. A reconfiguration is better than the current setup, and cheaper than coming up with a whole new vehicle like the shuttle that noone seems to want ot pay for. Until we can get a proper space plane, then I say use rockets. Besides, space plane for people, let pure rockets bring up the cargo. I love the idea of a 100 ton lifter. That's the better solution. Think of that. 5 shuttle launches to equal one of those big boys. 5 billion US instead of likely less than one billion to get all that tonage up there. If we really want to get to mars and back to the moon, then we need a big heavy lifter to space.

Check out their idea for the better solution at Safe Simple Soon . Granted it's a goofy name, but I do support the idea.

Using the existing booster to get people into orbit would work fine. Those things are great and have never exploded. Even when they caused the Challenger disaster in 86, it was more the fault of launching outside the temperature window. Even then, in this configuration, you could simple use the tower jet (mini rocket at on top of the CRV to separate the crew from teh rocket, and they would not have been lost.

DRUDGE REPORT FLASH 2005® - Million signatures claimed for Iraq troop pullout petition

2005-07-29T13:13:00.000-04:00

DRUDGE REPORT FLASH 2005® - Million signatures claimed for Iraq troop pullout petition

correct me if i'm wrong, but didn't we say we're leaving? well, maybe we should leave sooner. I doubt my botehrs-in-arms would have a problem with it, so long as the country doesn't fall apart in the process. Again, that's the whole reason we haven't left yet...

OLIVER STONE - STONE BLAMES ALEXANDER RECEPTION ON AMERICAN YOUTH

2005-07-29T13:11:00.000-04:00

OLIVER STONE - STONE BLAMES ALEXANDER RECEPTION ON AMERICAN YOUTH

yeah, that or you just madea bad movie....

FOXNews.com - Views - Junk Science - Tree Ring Circus

2005-07-28T22:46:00.000-04:00

FOXNews.com - Views - Junk Science - Tree Ring Circus
Oh yeah this says it all!!!

United Press International - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

2005-07-28T13:22:00.000-04:00

United Press International - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

Perhaps if they didn't have generals threatening us with a nuclear attack every other month, we would have a better view of them. The fact is that we need eachother economically. Still, this quote below is a prime example of the pot calling the kettle black. Rather hypocritical if you ask me...

" China, he said, would 'gradually' address U.S. concerns over the trade deficit and intellectual property rights and allow it greater access to services.
Tang reiterated Chinese demands that the United States give China full market economy status, lift restrictions on commodity and technology exports 'and correct the wrong practices of trade protectionism.' "

HoustonChronicle.com - Timing of reduction of troops in Iraq outlined

2005-07-28T09:56:00.000-04:00

HoustonChronicle.com - Timing of reduction of troops in Iraq outlined

Sounds good to me...

XM, Samsung and Napster Form Music Trifecta

2005-07-28T09:52:00.000-04:00

XM, Samsung and Napster Form Music Trifecta: "'Imagine having your MP3 player be capable of accessing hundreds of thousands of XM songs, and be able to record them and manage your playlists, and then integrate that with the MP3 songs you already have on your computer,' Patterson said."

Now this is the toy for me!!!!

CNN.com - Discovery docks with space station - Jul 28, 2005

2005-07-28T09:23:00.000-04:00

CNN.com - Discovery docks with space station - Jul 28, 2005

Yeah, and the damn foam has been crappy ever since they switched from using freon in it. Freon being proven to hurt the ozone layer, but comeon we're not talking about that much. Better the stuff was removed from all the fridges, ACs, and car ACs. The minor damage from a few fuel tanks a year is nominal compared to the loss of life and resources.

DUMB, DUMB, DUMB!!

MercuryNews.com | 07/28/2005 | Narrow approval for trade pact

2005-07-28T09:20:00.000-04:00

MercuryNews.com | 07/28/2005 | Narrow approval for trade pact

This is of course true, but we'll lose the jobs anyway to places where the free trade agreements already exist; China and other asian countries. At least we can send some of those jobs to people closer to home. Richer folks in Central America will help our border security, drug problems, and environment.

"More than 90 percent of House Democrats voted against CAFTA, arguing that it will cost U.S. manufacturing jobs because it is not strong enough on labor and environmental rights in the Central American countries. The vote continued a drop in House Democratic support for controversial trade deals that could hurt the party with the high-tech industry."

British Police Round Up 9 More Suspects Tied to Failed Attack - New York Times

2005-07-28T09:16:00.000-04:00

British Police Round Up 9 More Suspects Tied to Failed Attack - New York Times

Go Brits!!!! Go get 'em guys!!!

Xinhua - English - Northern Ireland's paramilitary to lay down arms

2005-07-28T09:15:00.000-04:00

Xinhua - English - Northern Ireland's paramilitary to lay down arms

I can think of no better news... Maybe they'll stop training terrorists now too... Still, this is really good news.

The Irish Republican Army (IRA) paramilitary movement is set to put down its arms from 4 pm on Thursday.

Chicago Tribune | New study sneezes at benefits of echinacea

2005-07-28T09:12:00.000-04:00

Chicago Tribune | New study sneezes at benefits of echinacea

aaah the plecebo effect proves itself again...

SPACE.com -- Richard Branson and Burt Rutan Form Spacecraft Building Company

2005-07-27T17:45:00.000-04:00

SPACE.com -- Richard Branson and Burt Rutan Form Spacecraft Building Company
This is what I'm talking about! Rutan is the man!!!!

BBC NEWS | Science/Nature | Japanese develop 'female' android

2005-07-27T17:03:00.000-04:00

BBC NEWS | Science/Nature | Japanese develop 'female' androidCREEPY!!!

AP: Iran Achieves Solid Fuel Technology - Yahoo! News

2005-07-27T14:10:00.000-04:00

AP: Iran Achieves Solid Fuel Technology - Yahoo! News
This is a bit bad for us, but much worse for our European allies and Isreal. Let's hope the government is overthrown there soon! It certainly seems like the people are chaffing under the theocracy there, but not with Uncle Sam's GIs. They did it before, they can do it without our help again...

My Way News - Iraq Wants Quick Withdrawal of U.S. Troops

2005-07-27T14:08:00.000-04:00

My Way News - Iraq Wants Quick Withdrawal of U.S. Troops

Sounds good to me... If they're ready, or don't want us there... let's go.. Maybe that will help stop the terrorists there...

Science News Article | Reuters.co.uk

2005-07-27T10:25:00.000-04:00

Science News Article | Reuters.co.uk
Oh don't get me started on this one... to put it mildly, i don't agree

IRA to announce decommissioning : HindustanTimes.com/UK: News for UK Asians

2005-07-27T10:23:00.000-04:00

IRA to announce decommissioning : HindustanTimes.com/UK: News for UK Asians
Did a snowflake fall in hell? This is truely amazing. Perhaps we can have peace in the Middle East too.

Floppy DIY Motor

2005-07-27T10:18:00.000-04:00

Floppy DIY Motor Oh I love nerds....
Of course, I am one....

BBC NEWS | Technology | Downloading 'myths' challenged

2005-07-27T10:17:00.000-04:00

BBC NEWS | Technology | Downloading 'myths' challenged This is sooo true....

Intense Hunt for Signs of Damage Could Raise Problems of Its Own - New York Times

2005-07-27T10:06:00.000-04:00

Intense Hunt for Signs of Damage Could Raise Problems of Its Own - New York Times

This is why Burt Rutan should be designing all of this stuff for us. To bad he's busy with a private contract with Virgin Galatic Spacelines. NASA needs a good redesign of how they do business. The shuttle is a step in the wrong direction. The new vehicle under construction hopefully will be better.

Washington recasts terror war as 'struggle' - Americas - International Herald Tribune

2005-07-27T10:03:00.000-04:00

Washington recasts terror war as 'struggle' - Americas - International Herald Tribune

Notice it was the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that made the decision to change this.

General Richard Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the National Press Club on Monday that he had "objected to the use of the term 'war on terrorism' before, because if you call it a war, then you think of people in uniform as being the solution."

He said the threat instead should be defined as violent extremism, with the recognition that "terror is the method they use."

Ol' General Myers has it right, and it's about time the administration made this change. Still, to give some credit to where it's due, they did listen to him.

The fact is that the, as Foxnews calls them, Islamifacists, are a group of extreme religious fanatics who don't want us to live how we live. Unfortuntately for them, the reverse is true. Many of their laws, especially as they relate to women, are unacceptable. This wouldn't be half the problem that it is if they didn't have all that oil that we need. Otherwise, we wouldn't be meddling with them, and giving them the resources, money, to hurt us. There are cultures in Africa and South America that are almost as distasteful to Westerners, but we don't hear about them, becuase we don't need them.

CNN.com - Judging Mr. Right - Jul 25, 2005

2005-07-25T14:50:00.000-04:00

CNN.com - Judging Mr. Right - Jul 25, 2005 Another reason why I support this guy!!!

Russia’s Biggest Spammer Brutally Murdered in Apartment - NEWS - MOSNEWS.COM

2005-07-25T11:38:00.000-04:00

Russia’s Biggest Spammer Brutally Murdered in Apartment - NEWS - MOSNEWS.COMThis is wrong, but...

CAFTA Deserves To Pass

2005-07-25T09:10:00.000-04:00

CAFTA Deserves To Pass I agree. Free trade will probably hurt a bit in the short run, but help a bit in the long run. We lost a bit to China, and now look at them. A threat yes, but also an economic power. Quite frankly, a marketplace. We need more of them, and more people with more money to buy our stuff. Wealth creates wealth. This is an investment worth making.

Pakistan to Help Afghans Contain Election Strife - New York Times - login required (free)

2005-07-25T09:06:00.000-04:00

Pakistan to Help Afghans Contain Election Strife - New York Times I wonder if this means that they'll spread it to their own country? Perhaps also a good word or two about the ol' US.

Border Chief Reaches Out to Volunteers

2005-07-21T09:58:00.001-04:00

Border Chief Reaches Out to Volunteers About time!

TheBostonChannel.com - News - Massive Shark Caught Off Vineyard

2005-07-21T09:58:00.000-04:00

TheBostonChannel.com - News - Massive Shark Caught Off Vineyard Very cool!!! I saw some commentary about this... the bugger is 15 feet long!!!!

My Way News - Michael Jackson wants to move to Berlin -newspaper

2005-07-21T09:56:00.000-04:00

My Way News - Michael Jackson wants to move to Berlin -newspaper

I say again... who cares????

he was found innocent... so he is ... nevertheless he's not popular here.... he is there i think... so ... it makes sence...

but .... who cares...

Reality TV Show to Seek Political Talent

2005-07-21T09:54:00.000-04:00

Reality TV Show to Seek Political Talent DUMB!!!!

BBC NEWS | Entertainment | Arts | Madonna tells of love for England

2005-07-20T13:12:00.000-04:00

BBC NEWS | Entertainment | Arts | Madonna tells of love for England
why is this news... so what.. England's a nice place

???

For the record

2005-07-20T11:27:00.000-04:00

I know I spell terribly, and often forget to spell check...

FIGHT -- FROM THE RIGHT: COULTER SAYS BUSH PICK WRONG

2005-07-20T11:25:00.000-04:00

FIGHT -- FROM THE RIGHT: COULTER SAYS BUSH PICK WRONG

Yep... this is good news. The guy is not anti-abortion per se. Personally, the man is. I am pro-choice for the record. Still, what I like about the guy is that he is a strict constructionist when it comes to the Constitution. That's a big deal. The fact is that whatever his personal feelings, he follows the law. He's not one to make law from the bench, but to follow it. With regards to abortion, he would, and has said this, follow the existing precident setup by Roe Vs Wade. Meaning, even though he has said he would prefer to rule against it, he will follow the law.

Another good thing about this guy is the fact that he was UNIMASLY confirmed by the Senate two years ago for his current Appelit Court position. Meaning that both the Dems and Republicans; Conservatives and Liberals; think he's a good guy. He's considered the best lawyer in the country by the Bar association. Basically, he's a good guy.

The fact that the extreme Right doesn't like him is a smack of irony, but one I've come to expect from political extremests; regardless of their actual slant.

Techworld.com - IEEE starts hammering out mesh network standard

2005-07-20T10:30:00.000-04:00

Techworld.com - IEEE starts hammering out mesh network standard

This is another good one... I see this as being as transformative as the internet itself. This is a big one.

Super-fast broadband coming via cable? | Tech News on ZDNet

2005-07-20T10:23:00.000-04:00

Super-fast broadband coming via cable? | Tech News on ZDNet

This is something to get excited about...

Are they nuts???

2005-03-03T16:03:00.000-05:00

US developing 'pain from a distance' weapon

I love the editorial comments here. This Brittish guy seems to have
missed the point here. Let me tell you what he said first.

Andrew Rice, a consultant in pain medicine in London,
said: "I am deeply concerned about the ethical aspects of this
research."

Okay, so he questions the ethical aspects of this. At first this
seems to be a logical thing to question. After all, torture is
defintiely something were all against.

So, okay what is the application of a weapon like this. It's clearly
designed for long-range application to large numbers of people;
ideally, troops, but crowd control comes to mind as well. I'm sure
the military was thinking Mogadissu(I know I murdered the spelling of
that.) when they authorized the research into it. Okay, so that's
why they wanted to create this pain device. Not too bad an idea.

This is not something you could use in a place like Cuba with all the
detainees. It's too long range. If you wanted to torture them, fire
and electricity are cheaper and easier to use. Do we not give our
police Tasers? Of course we do. Why, so they have an alternative to
shooting people. Hmmm. What about our little plasma pain device
here? What's the alternative to hitting them with pain? Well, I
believe for area control against large numbers of people, the Army has
one choice; artillery. Yeah, I think pain's better than that.

Aegis missile defense 'for real' after successful test

2005-02-28T14:47:00.000-05:00

Aegis missile defense 'for real' after successful test Yeah, I
like this.... especially after what NK has said... and Iran for that
matter....

French Jobless Rate Hits 10 Percent

2005-02-25T21:37:00.000-05:00

French
Jobless Rate Hits 10 Percent

French Jobless rate: 10%

who's worse? Whose system is worse?

Economy

2005-02-25T21:28:00.000-05:00

Economy
Grows Better Than Expected

our unemployment rate: ~ 5.5%
economy growing at between 3 - 4 % per year rate... 4.4 for last year

Interesting Article on Digital Rights Management and Digital Broadcast TV

2005-02-25T09:27:00.000-05:00

Digital TV's Hollywood Showdown

This is a big deal that I hope many people follow!

FOXNews.com - Your World w/ Neil Cavuto - Common Sense - Eat the Rich?

2005-02-17T17:50:00.000-05:00

FOXNews.com - Your World w/ Neil Cavuto - Common Sense - Eat the Rich?EXACTLY!!!!!!

BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | China emerges as global consumer

2005-02-17T07:47:00.000-05:00

BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | China emerges as global consumerthis report really says that china is in trouble... it's enviroment.... it needs a version of what the us had in the 1960s with regards to the enviromental movement here...

The Scotsman - International - Polar bears defy extinction threat

2005-02-10T23:41:00.000-05:00

The Scotsman - International - Polar bears defy extinction threat

Natural climate change may be larger than commonly thought

2005-02-10T23:39:00.000-05:00

Natural climate change may be larger than commonly thought

2005-02-06T16:10:00.000-05:00

my parents ugly dog

Salt water and waste heat - presto! - drinking supply | csmonitor.com

2005-02-06T15:11:00.000-05:00

Salt water and waste heat - presto! - drinking supply | csmonitor.com

TheStar.com - Climate change has bright side

2005-02-06T14:38:00.000-05:00

TheStar.com - Climate change has bright side

National Post

2005-02-06T14:34:00.000-05:00

National Post

Friends of Democracy - Iraq Election News

2005-02-02T20:33:00.000-05:00

Friends of Democracy - Iraq Election News

FOXNews.com - The O'Reilly Factor - Talking Points - The Iraqi Elections and Your Family

2005-01-29T12:49:00.000-05:00

FOXNews.com - The O'Reilly Factor - Talking Points - The Iraqi Elections and Your Family

This is what I'm talking about!

ScienceDirect - Quaternary Science Reviews : A test of the overdue-glaciation hypothesis

2005-01-25T19:10:00.000-05:00

ScienceDirect - Quaternary Science Reviews : A test of the overdue-glaciation hypothesis

The New York Times > Science > Environment > Antarctica, Warming, Looks Ever More Vulnerable

2005-01-25T19:07:00.000-05:00

The New York Times > Science > Environment > Antarctica, Warming, Looks Ever More Vulnerable

TheStar.com - We're faking and fibbing on Kyoto

2005-01-23T10:46:00.000-05:00

TheStar.com - We're faking and fibbing on Kyoto

Outsiders know it well. At a U.N. conference on climate change in Buenos Aires last month, the Japanese representative remarked, casually, as if it were self-evident, that when the Kyoto treaty comes up for renewal in 2012, Japan, Russia and Canada will all withdraw.

To quote a Simpson's character, "HAHA." Of course they will withdraw. IT's bunk. They can't meet it. The only reasons the Russsians joined it was because they get in to the World Trade Organization. DUH!

We're right, and they can't accept it. It's ironic that the very people who are claim to be the most "evolved" seem to be behaving like the ones that were rebelled against here in the US in the 60s.

Honest science proves that the enviorment is changing, but it is unsure if it is due to man-made causes. If we invest in Kyoto, it will cost us dearly. What happens if we were wrong to invest in Kyoto, but have no cash left to solve the real problem. Prosperity breeds solutions. Poverty does not. Rich countries invent. Poor countries need handouts. I say lets help everyone be rich. Rich is better. Promote free trade and honest competition. Then, through the natural innovaton that has spauned humanity's rise, the solutions to ecological problems can be found. Think of how many great minds are lost due to the fact that most minds on this planet are worried about eating...

- Prometheus: Chris Landsea Leaves IPCC Archives

2005-01-23T10:22:00.000-05:00

- Prometheus: Chris Landsea Leaves IPCC Archives And this is why I don't agree with the IPCC! Conservation yes... Kyoto, NO!!!

World Tribune.com -- Media's coverage has distorted world's view of Iraqi reality

2005-01-20T20:21:00.000-05:00

World Tribune.com -- Media's coverage has distorted world's view of Iraqi reality I need to say no more....

FOXNews.com - Health - Gov't Updates Food Pyramid Guidelines

2005-01-12T19:12:00.000-05:00

FOXNews.com - Health - Gov't Updates Food Pyramid Guidelines Finally a list about weith control and eating that makes sence! I usually get the 30 minutes of walking a day, and hit the gym 3 days a week for about 50-80 minutes. Guess what, I have a healthy weight for my height with fair muscle tone. Granted, it's easier for someone to maintain a healthy weight than to work towards it, but it does work!

I'd add to their reccomendations eating a light dinner and more calories during the day. It'll make you less likely to put calories to fat, and more likely to burn them during the day.

MSNBC - The 'Media Party' is over

2005-01-12T19:05:00.000-05:00

MSNBC - The 'Media Party' is over Interesting viewpoint... I have to agree with him.

NY1 News: Top Stories - Fatal Car Accidents Decline To 90-Year Low

2004-12-28T12:33:00.000-05:00

NY1 News: Top Stories - Fatal Car Accidents Decline To 90-Year Low

Add to that statistic that the City had half the population then as it does today, and it's even more amazing!

My Way News - Purported Bin Laden Tape Calls for Boycott

2004-12-28T11:31:00.000-05:00

My Way News - Purported Bin Laden Tape Calls for Boycott

Now why would he do that if his aim was to be ruthlessly pro-Arab - Muslim? Clearly he is not. Bin Laden and friends are neither pro-Arab or pro-Muslim. They are anti-West; anti-America. That's it plain and simple. The bastards just hate us, and all that we stand for. It's ironic to think that the two countries that Arabs have the most rights are Isreal and Iraq. Go figure? Try to vote in the "wonderful" Egypt. Why you can vote for whomever you choose so long as it's the "president." Sounds like Ford and his cars, "you can buy a model T in any color you choose so long as it's black!" That may not be an actual quote there, but you get my point.

CNN.com - Pentagon: Rumsfeld misspoke on Flight 93 crash - Dec 27, 2004

2004-12-28T11:24:00.000-05:00

CNN.com - Pentagon: Rumsfeld misspoke on Flight 93 crash - Dec 27, 2004

I want to make a short comment on this. I was stationed at Wright-Patterson AFB in Ohio when these attacks took place. I saw two National Guard F-16s take off after the Towers were hit, and before Flight 93 crashed. They landed later with the same number of missiles they took off with, and they were the ones who flew near the flight. I was able to confirm that by means available to me at the time. I had gone outside my office many times as I was talking to various family members on my cell phone, and saw the jets take off and land. Both my father and stepmother worked at the time within 2 blocks of the towers, and fortunately were competely unharmed. By the way, the jets went full afterburner for takeoff, and kept their maximum speed as they flew to PA. The sonic boom startled me as they broke the sound barrier less than a minute after take off! It's something I'll never forget!

As another side, I've always looked at plane crashes, particularly those from air combat which is an interest of mine. I did join the Air Force after all. When a plane is blown up in the sky from a missile, you get an impact like the Pan AM jet that was blown up by the Libians over Lockerbie Scotland. The wreckage there did not dig a hole in the ground. When a plane noses in to the ground, as has happened to many an aggressive military pilot (or one with simple bad luck), they dig a big hole in the ground from the impact. That's what happened in PA. Cut and dry, and I did hear that our pilots did have the permission to shoot it down if necessary. They just didn't have to.

New York Daily News - Business - Sirius , XM radio scale Yule heights

2004-12-28T11:09:00.000-05:00

New York Daily News - Business - Sirius , XM radio scale Yule heights

I haven't made up my mind on this satellite radio thing, but what I'm thinking is that I probably will go and do it. I know one of them came out with a small portable version of the device, and that sounds good to me. I'm not sure which network to go with, but I think the one with Baseball is the one for me. I like Stern, but not as much a baseball! I don't know.

What do you all think?

U.N. official slams U.S. as 'stingy' over aid - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics - December 28, 2004

2004-12-28T10:47:00.000-05:00

U.N. official slams U.S. as 'stingy' over aid - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics - December 28, 2004

This is just amazing. This author is one of those people that blow my mind. What right does she have to tell me what to do with my money? Before I get deep into my diatribe, I should take a step or two back, and build my case.

First quote....

The Bush administration yesterday pledged $15 million to Asian nations hit by a tsunami that has killed more than 22,500 people, although the United Nations' humanitarian-aid chief called the donation "stingy."

Okay, so the author calls an instant donation of $15 million, which is $5 million more than the next hightest doner, stingy even though we gave the first cash before we even knew the extent of the damage. Perhaps this is ignorance, but in this country, Congress holds the purse strings. They still have to approve any spending. The author is from Norway, perhaps she doesn't know that. It's reasonable since I don't know how the government of my grandfather's birth nation operates either. Still, the President did divert several Navy assets (aircraft and ships) to the region to help. It's a good thing Uncle Sam is all over the place, huh?

Second Point....

Secretary of State Colin L. Powell hinted that the $15 million U.S. offer was only the first installment of a larger aid package to those countries devastated by 30-foot waves triggered by a massive underwater earthquake.
"We also have to see this not just as a one-time thing," he said. "Some 20-plus thousand lives have been lost in a few moments, but the lingering effects will be there for years.
"The damage that was caused, the rebuilding of schools and other facilities will take time," he added. "So you need a quick infusion to stabilize the situation, take care of those who have been injured, get immediate relief supplies in, and then you begin planning for the longer haul."

My point is, DUH, more's comming!

Point 3

"Even before the crisis in the Asia-Pacific region and the Indian Ocean, the demands for food aid were stretching capacity: demands in Sudan, demands in West Africa, demands in other areas hit by drought and fighting," State Department spokesman Adam Ereli said.
"So even though we're giving a lot, the demand is very high," he added. "We're going to have to look at, as we move forward, what we can do to meet that demand."

Look at this, America is helping everybody already. Oh, yeah, we're bastards. Does anyone even offer to help us when we have a problem? I don't remember international aid coming in when Florida was hit by a few hurricaines in like what 9 weeks? Oh, but we're stingy. Right, okay.

Now we get to the fun stuff as my fur is going to get up, and I get really colorful...

But U.N. Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Jan Egeland suggested that the United States and other Western nations were being "stingy" with relief funds, saying there would be more available if taxes were raised.

So, Jan Egeland thinks he understands economic policy since he's at the post for humanitarian affairs. Okay, Jan, tell us how to run our economy. What's that raise taxes so the governments of the world can give away their citizens money to those less fortunate? Hmmm, that sounds like wealth re-distribution. Why I thought the Commies lost the Cold War? I must be mistaken. Actually, they put on new clothes and ran amuck. Socialism, after all, was invented in the west. Engles was an Englishmen, i think. I know he and Lenin came up with in in England. But, I digress... My point here is that ol' Jan there makes the mistake that so many do, thinking they know better how to handle my stuff than I do.

What proof of that, here's this statement of his...

"It is beyond me why are we so stingy, really," the Norwegian-born U.N. official told reporters. "Christmastime should remind many Western countries at least, [of] how rich we have become."
"There are several donors who are less generous than before in a growing world economy," he said, adding that politicians in the United States and Europe "believe that they are really burdening the taxpayers too much, and the taxpayers want to give less. It's not true. They want to give more."

This is really two statements, but worth putting together. What Jan illustrates here is two distinct kinds of ignorance. The first is that America, and the West in general, is not only Christian. Some of us are Jews, Muslim, Hindu, Buddist, and other religions that I can't even think of. Still, what's wrong with being rich and powerful. Rich is protection. Think about this fact. When Hurricane Andrew hit Florida, and I forget the exact number, but less than 100 Americans died in an area that has millions living in it. When a similiarly powerful, class 4 or 5, hurricane hit Central America (or even Galvaston Texas about 100 years ago) more than 10,000 people died. What does that tell you? Rich people have the means to survive, so so strengthing the economy of the world is how you best save lives.

The second related point is the fact that he believes that I want to give more of my money to charity. Is that so? Do I feel guilt? Of course I don't, that's ridiculous! I give of my choice, and actually I do choose to give some of my income to charity. That's my business, and my decision. Why tell the government to take it from me, and give it to who they think deserves it. I'm and intelligent being, and can think for myself. Perhaps my charity is to my nephews whose parents earn less than I do. Perhaps I'll give to the families of my former bothers and sisters in arms who have lost their lives. Perhaps I'll give it to my house of worship, the Red Cross, or some children's fund. The point is that it's my choice to give or not; let alone to whom.

Americans are already the most charitible people on the planet, and we deserve some credit for that. 300 million can only do so much!

GRRRRR!!!!!!!

one last point....

Meanwhile, Agence France-Presse reported that a tsunami alert system in Hawaii that warns Pacific countries about devastating tidal waves detected the earthquake that led to the destruction across Indian Ocean nations.
But the absence of an alert system in Asia meant the information could not be sent out fast enough.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, established in 1949 after a huge wave killed more than 150 people in Hawaii, issued a bulletin at 3:14 p.m. local time or 8:14 a.m. in the affected area, when it detected an earthquake off Indonesia.
The NOAA's information bulletin said there was a possibility of a tsunami near the earthquake's epicenter, but that no destructive threat existed in the Pacific. The huge tidal waves instead swept across the Indian Ocean, killing people in 10 countries from Indonesia to Somalia.

We're the bloody ones who warn the rest of the world about this stuff anyway. That's not a cheap system to monitor. Do we get any credit for that?

Quake rattled Earth orbit, changed map of Asia: US geophysicist

2004-12-28T09:29:00.000-05:00

Quake rattled Earth orbit, changed map of Asia: US geophysicist

Yeah, but perspective here... The orbit slowed 3 micro-seconds. That's 3 millionth's of a second. That's barely recordable by computers!

The islands moved a lot, but only 66 feet or so. This isn't a major realignment of the map. Heck, GPS, unaided by a ground based signal, will only get you better accuracy than that. Granted on a good day it will get you to within a few feet, but really. This isn't like the New Madrid earthquake of the early 1800s that moved the Mississippi. That was a big deal.

The tsunami is the real story here.

USATODAY.com - Poll shows troops in support of war

2004-12-27T10:55:00.000-05:00

USATODAY.com - Poll shows troops in support of war

What does that tell you? Those who know the most about the war, and have the most to lose with it are the ones who support it the greatest. That's because this is a just war! It was sold to the public on somewhat of a shaky ground, but it's still the right thing to do. We are, and have, done a good thing in Iraq.

Also of interest is the fact the military OPPOSES the draft. Democratic Rep. Charles Rangle of my own state of New York would be wise to observe this fact. It was HE and not the Republicans that tried to force it on the military and the country over this past summer; and sadly many other times. Odd, considering he represents, Harlem I believe, which is one of the poorest parts of NYC and the Nation in general. That is not a region of the country, neither is my native New York, known for supporting the military; regardless of what happened here a few Septembers ago. As a matter of fact, he would do well to remember the riots against both the Vietnam and Civil War draft that tore the City apart. The latter dramatised in the movie Gangs of New York. Nevertheless, the draft is a useless drain on the military. Want proof, ask someone who was drafted in Vietnam. There are pleanty of those men around. My father volunteered, and was lucky enough to be posted in the US. He had a fair time, and did not look poorly on his service. Draftees are unhappy, and unmotivated. Their only alternative is jail. They make poor soldiers, because all they want to do is to get out when their time is up. I don't question their combat abilities, integrity, or honor. It's only that they will most likely not stay in the service longer then they have to; which is shorter than the time the military would need to recoup their investment. All resources spent on training and equiping them are wasted, as they will leave the service as soon as they can. The exception to this are those drafted during a war like WWII when those men had a different motivation; the survival of our Country. All things said, my point is there and valid.

The next part that I want to comment on is the fact that they correctly see Congress as the problem with the armor issue. Congress hold the purse strings, and could add money specifically for the armor if they choose to. They could order Pentagon to put a portion of it's funds toward that.

Lastly, let me speak of Abu Gharaib. Most soldiers think that it's the fault of those who did it. I was told every year that I was responcible for my actions if I followed an illegal order; especially implied ones. This has been true ever since Vietnam; probably since the fallout of the Mai Lai incident, but that's just my guess. The folks in charge of the prison should bear the lion's share of the blame and punishment.

ABC News: China Army Will 'Crush' Any Taiwan Independence Move

2004-12-27T10:18:00.000-05:00

ABC News: China Army Will 'Crush' Any Taiwan Independence Move

This is something to be nervous about. It's been coming, and has been ignored by American Media.

They say they will crush any indepencence move. What stands in their way? The Taiwanese military is there, but the real shield is you and me. That's right, Nixon promised American protection to Taiwan (back then it was called Formosa), and our Navy still patrols the narrow sea lane between the island and the mainland.

Let's hope that missile defence shield gets up and running soon, or we'll have to stand by while China takes Taiwan. Don't think they won't do it. Unlike us, they are willing to take horrendus losses to meet their goals; both military and civilian losses.

OpinionJournal - From America With Love

2004-12-27T10:10:00.000-05:00

OpinionJournal - From America With Love Ukraine really has a chance here. A American woman married to the newly elected pro-Western president of Ukraine. That country, which some of my ancestors fled for America roughly 100 years ago, has a real chance. Like the author of this article, I do not agree with the cynics. Yes, the country is rife with corruption, but events of the scale of this election have a way of being a crucible by which new nations are born.

America has had it's share of crubilbles too; the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement. Each time, the nature of the country changed in dramatic ways even though the composition of the people did not. These events can change the mind and the soul of a country. The War of 1812 made us feel something of a nation as opposed to being a tight group of nation-states. The Civil War made us into Americans as much as the great Lincoln invented the modern version of politician; check it out, he was a master of gerrymandering, but I digress. The Civil Rights movement shook the soul of our country, and forced us to move to the place where our Promise is much closer to being a reality.

Yes, such an event has happened here. This is on par with those great events in America's past. The protests enveloped not only the capitol but in most of the cities and towns. People fought back and fought the corruption and intimidation. They did not accept an outcome that they knew was a fraud. Russia's arm is shortening. The battle for the soul of that great nation is yet to come, but more likely to come if those on her borders find Democracy.

Security and freedom can only come from a strong liberal economy. The Cold War proved that the West could match the military industrial output of the Russian block, but that the East could not match the output of the West for everything else. Our people are happier, because our people have more freedom. I speak with the reverence of a religious figure, but is it not so? Doctrine is doctrine. Our way is better, and it's good to see it spread. Much better to be bloodless in Ukraine than with the blood being shed in Iraq. Still, many gallons of blood have been spilt over the years under communism.

With an American co-pilot, and peacfullly revolutionized soul, Ukraine has a real chance. It remains to be seen if enough can change, but there is hope. Ukraine is not Russia, and they always were the conquered ones. Now, the people have a shook the ground and the greats have heard their voices. They will not easily give up the ground they have taken.

Activists Dominate Content Complaints

2004-12-07T09:40:00.000-05:00

Activists Dominate Content Complaints
This is not good!!!

The Lompoc Record - First missile interceptor to be installed at VAFB

2004-12-06T09:43:00.000-05:00

The Lompoc Record - First missile interceptor to be installed at VAFB

Anyone feel safer? Quite opposite from the sentiment of my words, it actually is a little comforting to me. It's the Chinese missiles that make me nervous, though.

WFTV.com - News - Packing Plant Fire Sends Melted Butter Flowing Out Of Facility

2004-12-02T12:07:00.000-05:00

WFTV.com - News - Packing Plant Fire Sends Melted Butter Flowing Out Of Facility
Now this is a recipe for fun!!!

MSNBC - Self-cleaning coating for clothes developed

2004-12-01T12:14:00.000-05:00

MSNBC - Self-cleaning coating for clothes developed This is pretty damn cool if you ask me!

Treats for Troops! care package, military care packages, care package for troops

2004-11-26T11:52:00.000-05:00

Treats for Troops! care package, military care packages, care package for troops Something Important for the holidays!

N. Koreans detail deadly experiments on prisoners - The Washington Times: World - November 24, 2004

2004-11-24T10:00:00.000-05:00

N. Koreans detail deadly experiments on prisoners - The Washington Times: World - November 24, 2004This is just sick!

New York Daily News - TV and Radio - Michael Goodwin: Dan's fall is Nixonian

2004-11-24T09:56:00.000-05:00

New York Daily News - TV and Radio - Michael Goodwin: Dan's fall is NixonianI think this guy has the bead on the Dan Rather stuff.

Yahoo! News - Dolphins Protect New Zealand Swimmers from Shark

2004-11-23T10:17:00.000-05:00

Yahoo! News - Dolphins Protect New Zealand Swimmers from Shark
This is unbelievealbe

ABC News: Silicon Insider: Digital Democratization

2004-11-18T09:43:00.000-05:00

ABC News: Silicon Insider: Digital Democratization This guy is a great read!

Jerusalem Post | French consider naming streets after Arafat

2004-11-15T09:58:00.000-05:00

Jerusalem Post | French consider naming streets after Arafat
A reason to boycott France!!!

ABC News: Silicon Insider: The Next Four Years

2004-11-11T10:28:00.000-05:00

ABC News: Silicon Insider: The Next Four Years
A Techie's roadmap for our future...

WSJ.com - Tears in Paris, Cheers in Bangalore

2004-11-09T10:27:00.000-05:00

WSJ.com - Tears in Paris, Cheers in Bangalore
This is a great insight into the Indian view of our last election!

WSJ.com - Why Did Kerry Lose? (Answer: It Wasn't 'Values.')

2004-11-09T10:24:00.000-05:00

WSJ.com - Why Did Kerry Lose? (Answer: It Wasn't 'Values.')
This is the first dead on political report that I have found to be accurate! Kerry lost and Bush won. Here's why!

Yahoo! News - Flu Remedy Sales Watched to Spot Outbreaks

2004-11-08T10:50:00.000-05:00

Yahoo! News - Flu Remedy Sales Watched to Spot Outbreaks
Kinda scary... even if it's for a good reason... Big Brother....

The New York Times > Week in Review > Bolts From the Political Blue: Can History Save the Democrats?

2004-11-08T10:44:00.000-05:00

The New York Times > Week in Review > Bolts From the Political Blue: Can History Save the Democrats?

I have a few thoughts. There are a couple of basic problems with the Democratic party right now, and opportunities as well. The Republican party has a core of socially conservative religiously motivated supporters, and then a large portion of socially liberal fiscally conservative, but non-eleteist followers. The latter are those like myself, and most of those I know personally who voted for Bush.

Let me say a couple of things that will anger you, but please understand that that is not my intention. I want you to see our rationale. The elitiest attitudes of many of Kerry's supporters, the man himself, and those who currently control the Democratic national agenda, piss us off. I say that vulgarly to be dramatic. The anger and fustration is as visceral as the way some, feel towards George. I understand that, and I think they have good reason to feel that way even if I don't feel that way. The problem is that the eliteists think I must be either stupid or ignorant to support him. They think that my support of some logging and partial clearing of federal woodlands is based on my ignorance. The point is that they think I must be dumb because I disagree regardless of the issue.

Their attitude breeds contempt on both sides, and causes a rift. It also brings me to my second point. A lot of America thinks that hunting is a fine way to spend their time. A lot of activities and beliefs that the social elete's find abhorant are quite acceptable to millions. Kerry's little hunting trip means that someone figured out my point, but too late. He didn't look natural. He looked like he was pratically gerrymandering, and everyone could see it.

All the Democrats need to do is to silence the elitist voices in the party. They need to take a step back from that agenda, and come up with a message that the rank and file union folk that have been their bastion of support over the last century would support. They need to get away from the message that the Hollywood elete that seem to hate America love. Most Americans, like myself, are quite patriotic. We love it here, and are happy to be part of this club; warts and all. We need to fix out social problems, but most folk need it to slow for a few years, and don't tell me this place is horrible. It's not, and we all know it. We all know what it's like in places like China, Saudi Arabia, etc. Stop acting like our government is as bad as those are.

Most of those who supported Bush and aren't religiously conservative are turned off by his religious tendancies. We're easy fruit for the Dems to grab in the next election. Just don't tell me you're smarter than I am, and don't act so smug. Bill Clinton didn't, and that's exactly why he did so damn well when Gore and Kerry didn't. Bill did EXACTLY what I'm saying. Bill's handlers are bunk, but that man knew what to do. The next 4 years will be interesting if they can find someone like that.

Mike

FOXNews.com - Foxlife - Tarantino Plans Kung-Fu Film in Chinese

2004-11-02T11:39:00.000-05:00

FOXNews.com - Foxlife - Tarantino Plans Kung-Fu Film in Chinese

This is great!

FOXNews.com - Views - The Myth of the Latino Vote

2004-11-02T11:06:00.000-05:00

FOXNews.com - Views - The Myth of the Latino Vote
I think this might be true... any thoughts???

My Way News: Russian Scientist Surrenders Arms-Grade Plutonium

2004-11-02T10:14:00.000-05:00

My Way News: Russian Scientist Surrenders Arms-Grade Plutonium
As if we didn't have enoughto worry about today...

later in the article they talk about how they "The local Mayak nuclear complex dumped 2.68 billion cubic feet of highly radioactive waste into a river between 1949 and 1956 and suffered an explosion in 1957, showering radiation over the southern Urals mountain region." Yeah, great on the enviroment the Russians were, huh? Communism, socalism, great ideas? Yeah, that's why I was in our Military!

My Way News: Dutch Filmmaker Theo Van Gogh Murdered

2004-11-02T10:10:00.000-05:00

My Way News: Dutch Filmmaker Theo Van Gogh Murdered
Kinda makes you think that non-western muslims are not nice people...

Yahoo! News - Remains of New Species of Hobbit-Sized Human Found

2004-10-27T14:17:00.000-04:00

Yahoo! News - Remains of New Species of Hobbit-Sized Human Found
This is too cool

ABC News: Researcher: Canola Oil Kills Grasshoppers

2004-10-26T10:03:00.000-04:00

ABC News: Researcher: Canola Oil Kills Grasshoppers
Interesting...

ABC News: Conservationists Sue Over Right Whales

2004-10-26T10:00:00.000-04:00

ABC News: Conservationists Sue Over Right Whales

I see no reason not to protect these buggers.

FOXNews.com - U.S. & World - Official: Karzai Clear Winner of Afghan Vote

2004-10-26T09:58:00.000-04:00

FOXNews.com - U.S. & World - Official: Karzai Clear Winner of Afghan Vote

The Afgan nation has truely been born. The people chose their own govenment. It is a good day for all the free peoples of the world, and the responcibility of us to help the newest member of our group to grow.

FOXNews.com - Politics - Lawmakers Mull Sanctioning Syria

2004-10-26T09:49:00.000-04:00

FOXNews.com - Politics - Lawmakers Mull Sanctioning Syria

Syria is a bad country. This is long overdue. They need new leadership.

FOXNews.com - The O'Reilly Factor - Talking Points - Terror TV?

2004-10-25T10:23:00.000-04:00

FOXNews.com - The O'Reilly Factor - Talking Points - Terror TV?
Bill makes a good point here...

My World

Bright Lights Film Journal | Attack of the Clones

Sprint, cable companies form venture

Russia says opposes use of force against Iran

Welcome to Project Gutenberg - Project Gutenberg

My Way News- Man Dies After 49 Hours of Computer Games

Bush Signs Overhaul of U.S. Energy Policy

The Australian: Uranium exports to China on the table [August 10, 2005]

The Australian: Cleric on run from bomber inquiry [August 10, 2005]

Redesign Is Seen for Next Craft, NASA Aides Say - New York Times

DRUDGE REPORT FLASH 2005® - Million signatures claimed for Iraq troop pullout petition

OLIVER STONE - STONE BLAMES ALEXANDER RECEPTION ON AMERICAN YOUTH

FOXNews.com - Views - Junk Science - Tree Ring Circus

United Press International - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

HoustonChronicle.com - Timing of reduction of troops in Iraq outlined

XM, Samsung and Napster Form Music Trifecta

CNN.com - Discovery docks with space station - Jul 28, 2005

MercuryNews.com | 07/28/2005 | Narrow approval for trade pact

British Police Round Up 9 More Suspects Tied to Failed Attack - New York Times

Xinhua - English - Northern Ireland's paramilitary to lay down arms

Chicago Tribune | New study sneezes at benefits of echinacea

SPACE.com -- Richard Branson and Burt Rutan Form Spacecraft Building Company

BBC NEWS | Science/Nature | Japanese develop 'female' android

AP: Iran Achieves Solid Fuel Technology - Yahoo! News

My Way News - Iraq Wants Quick Withdrawal of U.S. Troops

Science News Article | Reuters.co.uk

IRA to announce decommissioning : HindustanTimes.com/UK: News for UK Asians

Floppy DIY Motor

BBC NEWS | Technology | Downloading 'myths' challenged

Intense Hunt for Signs of Damage Could Raise Problems of Its Own - New York Times

Washington recasts terror war as 'struggle' - Americas - International Herald Tribune

CNN.com - Judging Mr. Right - Jul 25, 2005

Russia’s Biggest Spammer Brutally Murdered in Apartment - NEWS - MOSNEWS.COM

CAFTA Deserves To Pass

Pakistan to Help Afghans Contain Election Strife - New York Times - login required (free)

Top News Article | Reuters.co.uk | Iraq Sunnis to end constitution committee boycott

Border Chief Reaches Out to Volunteers

TheBostonChannel.com - News - Massive Shark Caught Off Vineyard

My Way News - Michael Jackson wants to move to Berlin -newspaper

Reality TV Show to Seek Political Talent

BBC NEWS | Entertainment | Arts | Madonna tells of love for England

For the record

FIGHT -- FROM THE RIGHT: COULTER SAYS BUSH PICK WRONG

Techworld.com - IEEE starts hammering out mesh network standard

Super-fast broadband coming via cable? | Tech News on ZDNet

Are they nuts???

Aegis missile defense 'for real' after successful test

French Jobless Rate Hits 10 Percent

Economy

Interesting Article on Digital Rights Management and Digital Broadcast TV

FOXNews.com - Your World w/ Neil Cavuto - Common Sense - Eat the Rich?

BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | China emerges as global consumer

The Scotsman - International - Polar bears defy extinction threat

Natural climate change may be larger than commonly thought

Salt water and waste heat - presto! - drinking supply | csmonitor.com

TheStar.com - Climate change has bright side

National Post

Friends of Democracy - Iraq Election News

FOXNews.com - The O'Reilly Factor - Talking Points - The Iraqi Elections and Your Family

ScienceDirect - Quaternary Science Reviews : A test of the overdue-glaciation hypothesis

The New York Times > Science > Environment > Antarctica, Warming, Looks Ever More Vulnerable

TheStar.com - We're faking and fibbing on Kyoto

- Prometheus: Chris Landsea Leaves IPCC Archives

World Tribune.com -- Media's coverage has distorted world's view of Iraqi reality

FOXNews.com - Health - Gov't Updates Food Pyramid Guidelines

MSNBC - The 'Media Party' is over

NY1 News: Top Stories - Fatal Car Accidents Decline To 90-Year Low

My Way News - Purported Bin Laden Tape Calls for Boycott

CNN.com - Pentagon: Rumsfeld misspoke on Flight 93 crash - Dec 27, 2004

New York Daily News - Business - Sirius , XM radio scale Yule heights

U.N. official slams U.S. as 'stingy' over aid - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics - December 28, 2004

Quake rattled Earth orbit, changed map of Asia: US geophysicist

USATODAY.com - Poll shows troops in support of war

ABC News: China Army Will 'Crush' Any Taiwan Independence Move

OpinionJournal - From America With Love

Activists Dominate Content Complaints

The Lompoc Record - First missile interceptor to be installed at VAFB

WFTV.com - News - Packing Plant Fire Sends Melted Butter Flowing Out Of Facility

MSNBC - Self-cleaning coating for clothes developed

Treats for Troops! care package, military care packages, care package for troops