Linux Advocacy by Joe Shaw is a good article on general technical advocacy. However, I will suggest that it is a good overview of advocacy in general.
Monday, November 22, 2004
Sunday, November 14, 2004
Real Player/Real One ... Yuk!
I have been truly disappointed in Real Player/Real One. I find the "free" Real Player installation to be akin to malicious "AdWare".
This blog Link has a comprehensive article and summarizes my thoughts and feelings on the whole "Real Player" issue. If WinAmp can do this without being malicious or annoying, why can't Real One? In many ways, Real One is becoming more like Microsoft every year which is the ultimate irony considering Real One's history.
This blog Link has a comprehensive article and summarizes my thoughts and feelings on the whole "Real Player" issue. If WinAmp can do this without being malicious or annoying, why can't Real One? In many ways, Real One is becoming more like Microsoft every year which is the ultimate irony considering Real One's history.
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
I will not miss AG John Ashcroft
The Ashcroft Raids
AG John Ashcroft's use of "preventive detentions" in the fight against terrorists yielded zero convictions out of almost 5000 detentions.
I will not miss AG John Ashcroft.
AG John Ashcroft's use of "preventive detentions" in the fight against terrorists yielded zero convictions out of almost 5000 detentions.
I will not miss AG John Ashcroft.
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
The Quest for a Recumbent Bicycle
My quest continues. On the back of a jeep, I spied a Burly Cantos recumbent bicycle. Its design peaked my engineering interest & eye. Simple, direct, and lazy...I like it. The Burley company is quite interesting as well. I am not sure if I will buying a recumbent soon, but I will certainly be looking at Burley recumbent bicycles.
Monday, November 08, 2004
Just another one of those quotes...
John Adams wrote his wife, Abigail, from Philadelphia:
The founding fathers seemed to have a very keen and timeless grasp of the fundamentals.
-jmc.
"I must study politics and war that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy, geography, natural history, and naval architecture ... in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music, architecture, tapestry, and porcelain".
The founding fathers seemed to have a very keen and timeless grasp of the fundamentals.
-jmc.
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
Friday, October 29, 2004
Logic Patents in Europe
FFII: Logic Patents in Europe
This type of use of the patent system has always truly bothered me. I didn't like it when Amazon.com patented the "one-click" shopping. Of course, Microsoft et al. have been attempted to patent & derived royalty fee for years for what is the internet equivalent of oxygen & gravity. The issue of "Logic Patents" in Europe has the timber of one of those "over there" problem but it could very well happen here. Attempts are all ready underway to thrwart the open source and free software communities. All you have to do is read and follow SCO attempts to derive royalty payments & licensing fees from large entreprises. They even have the temerity to sue IBM. For an interesting account of this legal battle, all you have to do is go to GrokLaw. What is also interesting is how this "blog" has been the focus of ire and scorn of SCO. It is a very good blog to read if you are interested in the intersection of intellectual property, free software, and business. If people think of the the free market as a panacea for what ails us, all they have to is read a few account of business trying to make money by exploiting the legal system.
This type of use of the patent system has always truly bothered me. I didn't like it when Amazon.com patented the "one-click" shopping. Of course, Microsoft et al. have been attempted to patent & derived royalty fee for years for what is the internet equivalent of oxygen & gravity. The issue of "Logic Patents" in Europe has the timber of one of those "over there" problem but it could very well happen here. Attempts are all ready underway to thrwart the open source and free software communities. All you have to do is read and follow SCO attempts to derive royalty payments & licensing fees from large entreprises. They even have the temerity to sue IBM. For an interesting account of this legal battle, all you have to do is go to GrokLaw. What is also interesting is how this "blog" has been the focus of ire and scorn of SCO. It is a very good blog to read if you are interested in the intersection of intellectual property, free software, and business. If people think of the the free market as a panacea for what ails us, all they have to is read a few account of business trying to make money by exploiting the legal system.
Data mining in the US Senate
Data Mining in the US Sensate
A great paper describing the different data Senate Data sources available to everyone via the web.
If you interesting in finding what & when things happen in Congress, who vote for what, and what the actual text of bills are in the House or Senate, visiting & learning the Thomas supported and maintaine by the Library of Congress.
I am still learning to navigate the various twists & turns but it is extrememly. One of the things that I have learned from the 2004 Presidential Campaign and the current administration is to go to the primary sources. Read the original text of transcripts, bills, Presidential Daily Briefing, etc. Make up your own mind based on the best available data or evidence. It is quite evident that both political parites, the corporate media, and special interest groups do not have any intention of being forthright with their analytical techniques, data sources, or creative editing.
A great paper describing the different data Senate Data sources available to everyone via the web.
If you interesting in finding what & when things happen in Congress, who vote for what, and what the actual text of bills are in the House or Senate, visiting & learning the Thomas supported and maintaine by the Library of Congress.
I am still learning to navigate the various twists & turns but it is extrememly. One of the things that I have learned from the 2004 Presidential Campaign and the current administration is to go to the primary sources. Read the original text of transcripts, bills, Presidential Daily Briefing, etc. Make up your own mind based on the best available data or evidence. It is quite evident that both political parites, the corporate media, and special interest groups do not have any intention of being forthright with their analytical techniques, data sources, or creative editing.
Monday, October 18, 2004
"Without a Doubt" by Ron Suskind, NY Times, Oct, 17, 2004
The New York Times Magazine, "Without a Doubt" by Ron Suskind
(registration may be needed but it should be free)
This is a powerful, comprehensive article that everyone should read. Challenge the assumptions, seek out the primary sources, gather data and conduct your own objective analysis, let this process guide you. I have always felt that everytime you make a decision should have to be able explain your reasoning and how you arrive at your decision stating the facts you used and the ones you discarded.
Degrees & certificates do not make you smart. Using what you learned does, including your mistakes as well as your successes.
(registration may be needed but it should be free)
This is a powerful, comprehensive article that everyone should read. Challenge the assumptions, seek out the primary sources, gather data and conduct your own objective analysis, let this process guide you. I have always felt that everytime you make a decision should have to be able explain your reasoning and how you arrive at your decision stating the facts you used and the ones you discarded.
Degrees & certificates do not make you smart. Using what you learned does, including your mistakes as well as your successes.
Thursday, October 14, 2004
iAbolish -- Web Portal of the American Anti-Slavery Group
iAbolish -- Web Portal of the American Anti-Slavery Group
Yesterday at Saint Michael's College, I had the privilege of hearing Francis Bok tell his story of being captured, forced into slavery, and subsequent escape ten years later in Sudan.
I was a very compelling and thought-provoking account. If you have the opportunity, go & hear Francis Bok's story.
His talk ranged from his saddening experiences as a slave in the Sudan to his unrelenting desire for freedom and finally ending with his optimistism, energy, and drive to improve himself, get an education and educate others about suffering in Sudan.
A remarkable story from a remarkable individual. Just go and listen for yourself.
Yesterday at Saint Michael's College, I had the privilege of hearing Francis Bok tell his story of being captured, forced into slavery, and subsequent escape ten years later in Sudan.
I was a very compelling and thought-provoking account. If you have the opportunity, go & hear Francis Bok's story.
His talk ranged from his saddening experiences as a slave in the Sudan to his unrelenting desire for freedom and finally ending with his optimistism, energy, and drive to improve himself, get an education and educate others about suffering in Sudan.
A remarkable story from a remarkable individual. Just go and listen for yourself.
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
Can you hear me now? (Gawd, I hope not)
Can you hear me now? is an editorial by Allison Lazarz, executive editor of the Saint Michael's College on-line student publication which say what I have been thinking for quite some time.
The prevalence of cell phones is a boon for all and a bane for many. It is wonderful that our collective worlds have shrunk to a device smaller than a pack of cigarettes and certainly more healthy. We are available to family, friends, and coworkers anytime and nearly any place but what price, other than $40/month, are we paying? What are the actual benefits of being available? If you have a cell phone, are you now expected to actually have it turned on? Have people expections become unrealistic because of instant communication?
"Hey, If I can contact you anytime and anyplace, why can't your respond likewise?"
When we sent actually paper letters to friends and family, we would not expect a response for days, weeks or even months. Now, with the advancement of email into most nooks & crannies of our culture, we expect a reply by the next day, before the end of the day, or even within the hour. Now, with instant messaging (IM), the "send-receive" loop is even tighter, often so our the expections, real and perceived.
Let me assure you, I am the farest thing from being a luddite or neo-luddite. I have three IM clients running, 4 email accounts, high speed internet at home and office, a cell phone with nation-wide coverage & text messaging, and a mailbox near the front door of my home. However, I will be defying convention and getting rid of my cell phone. Why? Just no real need. When I am available, there is a phone nearby which I will answer immediately. When I am not available, there may be phone nearby, however I will not answer it or take the message unless it is a family emergency. Since the amount of time I am unavailable is a very small percentage of the total time. I think it's fair to spend as I see fit, i.e. talking with people in person, having coffee, reading the paper at a cafe, watching a play, listening to a lecture or just sitting on the porch watching people.
In our rush to "not miss anything", it would be ironic if we were doing just that.
The prevalence of cell phones is a boon for all and a bane for many. It is wonderful that our collective worlds have shrunk to a device smaller than a pack of cigarettes and certainly more healthy. We are available to family, friends, and coworkers anytime and nearly any place but what price, other than $40/month, are we paying? What are the actual benefits of being available? If you have a cell phone, are you now expected to actually have it turned on? Have people expections become unrealistic because of instant communication?
"Hey, If I can contact you anytime and anyplace, why can't your respond likewise?"
When we sent actually paper letters to friends and family, we would not expect a response for days, weeks or even months. Now, with the advancement of email into most nooks & crannies of our culture, we expect a reply by the next day, before the end of the day, or even within the hour. Now, with instant messaging (IM), the "send-receive" loop is even tighter, often so our the expections, real and perceived.
Let me assure you, I am the farest thing from being a luddite or neo-luddite. I have three IM clients running, 4 email accounts, high speed internet at home and office, a cell phone with nation-wide coverage & text messaging, and a mailbox near the front door of my home. However, I will be defying convention and getting rid of my cell phone. Why? Just no real need. When I am available, there is a phone nearby which I will answer immediately. When I am not available, there may be phone nearby, however I will not answer it or take the message unless it is a family emergency. Since the amount of time I am unavailable is a very small percentage of the total time. I think it's fair to spend as I see fit, i.e. talking with people in person, having coffee, reading the paper at a cafe, watching a play, listening to a lecture or just sitting on the porch watching people.
In our rush to "not miss anything", it would be ironic if we were doing just that.
Friday, October 01, 2004
U.S. vs Microsoft : The End of an Era
A case of insecure browsing by Andrew Chin.
Very good concluding remarks by Andrew Chin to the US v. Microsoft Anti-Trust suit brought six years ago. Mr. Chin was Judge Penfield's legal extern on this landmark case. A case brought by the Clinton administration and a case essentially ignored by the current administration.
What is rather ironic is that our nation's very own CERT agency which is partnership with the Department of Homeland Security recommends (but also mentions the appropriate Microsoft security fixes) that the public use a different browser than Microsoft's Internet Explorer (IE) because of its seemingly constant security holes. The CERT report also mentions that using a different browser with only minimize the threats because you cannot actually remove IE from your system due to being integrated and sharing code with the operating system. This enables the wiley black-hat hackers to exploit the Microsoft IE security holes even if you choose to use another browser without taking proper precautions. This is a direct result of Microsoft's insistence that the browser must integrated into the operating system thus supporting their anti-competitive, predatory claims that they had to give away the IE browser resulting in the unfortunate undermining and eventual demise of the Netscape browser products. Now, we are stuck with IE buried into the de facto desktop standard operating system despite its inherent & constant computer security vunerabilities.
Now, we will never know how the Supreme Court would rule on this case. Too bad.
Very good concluding remarks by Andrew Chin to the US v. Microsoft Anti-Trust suit brought six years ago. Mr. Chin was Judge Penfield's legal extern on this landmark case. A case brought by the Clinton administration and a case essentially ignored by the current administration.
What is rather ironic is that our nation's very own CERT agency which is partnership with the Department of Homeland Security recommends (but also mentions the appropriate Microsoft security fixes) that the public use a different browser than Microsoft's Internet Explorer (IE) because of its seemingly constant security holes. The CERT report also mentions that using a different browser with only minimize the threats because you cannot actually remove IE from your system due to being integrated and sharing code with the operating system. This enables the wiley black-hat hackers to exploit the Microsoft IE security holes even if you choose to use another browser without taking proper precautions. This is a direct result of Microsoft's insistence that the browser must integrated into the operating system thus supporting their anti-competitive, predatory claims that they had to give away the IE browser resulting in the unfortunate undermining and eventual demise of the Netscape browser products. Now, we are stuck with IE buried into the de facto desktop standard operating system despite its inherent & constant computer security vunerabilities.
Now, we will never know how the Supreme Court would rule on this case. Too bad.
Thursday, September 30, 2004
Who Really Deserves a Silver Star? - The military's unfair awards system. By Owen West
Who Really Deserves a Silver Star? - The military's unfair awards system. By Owen West of Slate
A well reasoned and interesting article, as a former enlisted infantryman, I couldn't help but agree with the assertion made my author. What I found especially profound was Gen. George C. Marshall's remarks to President Roosevelt in a memo on Feb. 3, 1944 explaining the need for the medal :
"The fact that the ground troops, infantry in particular, lead miserable lives of extreme discomfort and are the ones who must close in personal combat with the enemy, makes the maintenance of their morale of great importance ... particularly the infantry riflemen who are now suffering the heaviest losses, air or ground ... and enduring the greatest hardships."
Mr. West gathers up some great points, quotes and details to present a very reasonable approach to the problem that has been simmering under the military surface far too long.
Note : A statistic I found very telling was that support staff outnumber rifleman 6-to-1.
A well reasoned and interesting article, as a former enlisted infantryman, I couldn't help but agree with the assertion made my author. What I found especially profound was Gen. George C. Marshall's remarks to President Roosevelt in a memo on Feb. 3, 1944 explaining the need for the medal :
"The fact that the ground troops, infantry in particular, lead miserable lives of extreme discomfort and are the ones who must close in personal combat with the enemy, makes the maintenance of their morale of great importance ... particularly the infantry riflemen who are now suffering the heaviest losses, air or ground ... and enduring the greatest hardships."
Mr. West gathers up some great points, quotes and details to present a very reasonable approach to the problem that has been simmering under the military surface far too long.
Note : A statistic I found very telling was that support staff outnumber rifleman 6-to-1.
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
Catastrophic Success - The worse Iraq gets, the more we must be winning. By William Saletan, Slate magazine
Catastrophic Success - The worse Iraq gets, the more we must be winning.
This recent article in Slate by William Saletan focuses on some of the seemingly contradictory actions taken by the current administration, such as "Bush's arguments made the wisdom of cutting taxes unfalsifiable. In good times, tax cuts were affordable. In bad times, they were necessary." where Saletan makes a point how this type of approach covers all of the outcomes. It certainly justifies the tax breaks no matter what the economic conditions are at the time. (except maybe, no tax breaks if the economy is just "so-so")
Aside from the various points he makes about the administration's contradictory statements often within the same paragraph or sentence. What I really find fasinating is the use of the language in the national debate on the Iraqi war, tax breaks, or even evironmental policy. Consider the now popular phrase, "Catastrophic Success" ... if there were ever a contradiction in terms, this would be it. While I think at first glance, these types of word combinations nomially referred to as "oxymorons". I can't help but wonder if perhaps these may be a little different. Maybe, because we are supposed to take them seriously?
Are there other examples in popular culture or current language which are similar? As I collect these types of terms and/or phrases, I will try to post them here.
This recent article in Slate by William Saletan focuses on some of the seemingly contradictory actions taken by the current administration, such as "Bush's arguments made the wisdom of cutting taxes unfalsifiable. In good times, tax cuts were affordable. In bad times, they were necessary." where Saletan makes a point how this type of approach covers all of the outcomes. It certainly justifies the tax breaks no matter what the economic conditions are at the time. (except maybe, no tax breaks if the economy is just "so-so")
Aside from the various points he makes about the administration's contradictory statements often within the same paragraph or sentence. What I really find fasinating is the use of the language in the national debate on the Iraqi war, tax breaks, or even evironmental policy. Consider the now popular phrase, "Catastrophic Success" ... if there were ever a contradiction in terms, this would be it. While I think at first glance, these types of word combinations nomially referred to as "oxymorons". I can't help but wonder if perhaps these may be a little different. Maybe, because we are supposed to take them seriously?
Are there other examples in popular culture or current language which are similar? As I collect these types of terms and/or phrases, I will try to post them here.
- Catastropic Success
- Malicious Compliance
- ???
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
What the heck *is* emo anyway?
What the heck *is* emo anyway?
One of the benefits working at a liberal arts college is the exposure to a variety of new ideas, new concepts, and new music. At least, new terms for musical genres...
I noticed that my college radio station, WWPV, had a show which featured punk, ska & emo. I said "What the heck is emo?"
Well, the web provides. In this case, literally, a web page using my interogative as its title.
Now, some of this stuff does seem familiar from a long time ago but that would be dating himself.
:-)
One of the benefits working at a liberal arts college is the exposure to a variety of new ideas, new concepts, and new music. At least, new terms for musical genres...
I noticed that my college radio station, WWPV, had a show which featured punk, ska & emo. I said "What the heck is emo?"
Well, the web provides. In this case, literally, a web page using my interogative as its title.
Now, some of this stuff does seem familiar from a long time ago but that would be dating himself.
:-)
Article discussing a former Army public affairs officer experiences in Iraq.
Krohn's Rules is an interesting article profiling a retired US Army officer Charles Krohn experiences as deputy chief of public affairs for the Army and spokesman and media adviser for the Program Management Office (PMO) in Baghdad which heads up the Iraqi recontruction effort.
A partisan Republican, an idealist, a Vietnam vet, infantryman and a straight-talking Army officer, I look forward to reading more about his observations and opinions on the Iraqi reconstruction efforts.
I found one of his quotes to be quite reassuring :
"The thought of, 'Let's not tell them the full story,' I won't be part of that. I simply won't. The truth always comes out anyway."
A partisan Republican, an idealist, a Vietnam vet, infantryman and a straight-talking Army officer, I look forward to reading more about his observations and opinions on the Iraqi reconstruction efforts.
I found one of his quotes to be quite reassuring :
"The thought of, 'Let's not tell them the full story,' I won't be part of that. I simply won't. The truth always comes out anyway."
Great Quote & the Upcoming Iraqi Elections
Great Quote & the Upcoming Iraqi Elections
From The Intel Dump blog by Phillip Carter, there is a great quote from Havard President and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers :
"In the history of the world, no one has ever washed a rented car."
While the senitments behind the quote certainly apply to the upcoming Iraqi elections, I just love the quote in general. I can think of a variety of situations where having a feeling of ownership is a critical requirement for a successful enterprises and ventures of nearly any kind. Consider the realm of ethics or community, if people feel vested in a particular area or sphere of interaction, they will more likely behave in an polite and ethical manner. At least, I would hope so.
From The Intel Dump blog by Phillip Carter, there is a great quote from Havard President and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers :
"In the history of the world, no one has ever washed a rented car."
While the senitments behind the quote certainly apply to the upcoming Iraqi elections, I just love the quote in general. I can think of a variety of situations where having a feeling of ownership is a critical requirement for a successful enterprises and ventures of nearly any kind. Consider the realm of ethics or community, if people feel vested in a particular area or sphere of interaction, they will more likely behave in an polite and ethical manner. At least, I would hope so.
Monday, September 27, 2004
Baghdad Year Zero (Harpers.org)
Baghdad Year Zero (Harpers.org) is a very interesting article written by Naomi Klein, a well known journalist.
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
Bill Moyer's Speech to the Society of Professional Journalists
In Bill Moyer's Speech, "Journalism Under Fire", to the Society of Professional Journalists, Bill Moyers relates how journalism and politics have become inexorably linked.
However, I found his accounts regarding corporate interests, the "Rapture Index", and the current efforts by the current administration to further restrict the flow of information, media consolidation, and many other related topics to be both chilling, mind-numbing and thought provoking.
When you lay out all of the facts like Moyers does in his speech, even if half of them are completely wrong, the state of free & objective journalism is frighteningly close to disappearing or at least not large enough to have the impact it should have. Giving us the information we need to make informed & proper decisions. I have been following the individual points Bill Moyers lays for years, but I never thought to put them in a long essay like he has done.
Moyer relays a great quote from a fellow journalist being asked a college student to define "Real News" ...
“Real news,” said Richard Reeves “is the news you and I need to keep our freedoms.”
He goes on to mention a number of accounts throughout the world where journalists were murdered because of their reporting, because as Moyers puts it "Journalism matters" and the successful nefarious elements of society know it. Nothing disrupts the flow of dirty dealings of governments, organized crime, corporations and privileged individuals like the spotlight of high quality, objective journalism.
I encourage you to read Moyers' speech on the website or download it for printing. Please let me know if you have trouble accessing the website.
However, I found his accounts regarding corporate interests, the "Rapture Index", and the current efforts by the current administration to further restrict the flow of information, media consolidation, and many other related topics to be both chilling, mind-numbing and thought provoking.
When you lay out all of the facts like Moyers does in his speech, even if half of them are completely wrong, the state of free & objective journalism is frighteningly close to disappearing or at least not large enough to have the impact it should have. Giving us the information we need to make informed & proper decisions. I have been following the individual points Bill Moyers lays for years, but I never thought to put them in a long essay like he has done.
Moyer relays a great quote from a fellow journalist being asked a college student to define "Real News" ...
“Real news,” said Richard Reeves “is the news you and I need to keep our freedoms.”
He goes on to mention a number of accounts throughout the world where journalists were murdered because of their reporting, because as Moyers puts it "Journalism matters" and the successful nefarious elements of society know it. Nothing disrupts the flow of dirty dealings of governments, organized crime, corporations and privileged individuals like the spotlight of high quality, objective journalism.
I encourage you to read Moyers' speech on the website or download it for printing. Please let me know if you have trouble accessing the website.
Monday, September 20, 2004
The Greenest house on the Block : Rose House
PortlandTribune.com | The greenest house on the block
Wow, talk about being energy conversation, 800 sq ft of house but zero dollars spent on energy. Again, Portland, OR is doing some interesting things.
Wow, talk about being energy conversation, 800 sq ft of house but zero dollars spent on energy. Again, Portland, OR is doing some interesting things.
Winning the Oil Endgame : A proposal to elminate US dependence on Oil
Winning the Oil Endgame-Homepage
I have for countless years felt that our country's dependence on oil & foreign oil is not strategic or advisable long term policy.
Unfortunately, it is a complex issue involving geopolitics, the global economy, the American Culture, and special interests.
You just have to ask yourself one thing, Would you advise someone to save for retirement by buying stock in a single company?
"Winning the Oil Endgame" is but only one proposal. If there are others, please let me know.
I have for countless years felt that our country's dependence on oil & foreign oil is not strategic or advisable long term policy.
Unfortunately, it is a complex issue involving geopolitics, the global economy, the American Culture, and special interests.
You just have to ask yourself one thing, Would you advise someone to save for retirement by buying stock in a single company?
"Winning the Oil Endgame" is but only one proposal. If there are others, please let me know.
Sunday, September 19, 2004
What The Bleep Do We Know!? - Spiritual Movies, Quantum Physics, Brain Science, Spirituality
What The Bleep Do We Know?! Home Page
I got to love it when film make a film combing quantum physics, spirituality, neuroscience, cognitive theory and mysticism. I am so there to see this one. According to the movie's website, it will open on Sept. 24 at the Roxy in Burlington, VT. Unfortunately, when I check the Roxy Theater website, there was no mention. Stay tuned.
No automatic gunfire, martial arts or love interests...obviously not mainstream Hollywood fare. It might actually be interesting.
I got to love it when film make a film combing quantum physics, spirituality, neuroscience, cognitive theory and mysticism. I am so there to see this one. According to the movie's website, it will open on Sept. 24 at the Roxy in Burlington, VT. Unfortunately, when I check the Roxy Theater website, there was no mention. Stay tuned.
No automatic gunfire, martial arts or love interests...obviously not mainstream Hollywood fare. It might actually be interesting.
Thursday, September 16, 2004
Who says what's old isn't new again!?
43 Folders: Introducing the Hipster PDA
I love this stuff. You want a PDA that boots instantly and doesn't require batteries or power cord. Who says that there isn't room for old-fashioned work habits in our high tech world.
I love this stuff. You want a PDA that boots instantly and doesn't require batteries or power cord. Who says that there isn't room for old-fashioned work habits in our high tech world.
Wednesday, September 15, 2004
My New Quest : A Recumbent Bicycle for my Short Commute
I rode my bike into work just the other day transforming a 15 minute walk into a 5 minute bicycle ride.
Great, right? Unfortunately, the time improvement was wonderful but the bicycle's seat caused great pains in my seat. Ow...ouch...this just sucks.
My commute is a dream for a bicycle. It is slightly less than a mile, totally flat, and entirely on a sidewalk. I only have to hop one curb. Along the way, there is a Cumberland Farms and Dunkin' Donuts in case of dire needs such as junk food or caffiene. It doesn't get easier than this for the commuter who wants to use a bicycle.
After a very painful and uncomfortable ride, I was thinking about those other bikes. The strange ones where your feet are in front of you and sitting in the relative comfort of web seat. It seems like heaven to me.
My Plan :
Great, right? Unfortunately, the time improvement was wonderful but the bicycle's seat caused great pains in my seat. Ow...ouch...this just sucks.
My commute is a dream for a bicycle. It is slightly less than a mile, totally flat, and entirely on a sidewalk. I only have to hop one curb. Along the way, there is a Cumberland Farms and Dunkin' Donuts in case of dire needs such as junk food or caffiene. It doesn't get easier than this for the commuter who wants to use a bicycle.
After a very painful and uncomfortable ride, I was thinking about those other bikes. The strange ones where your feet are in front of you and sitting in the relative comfort of web seat. It seems like heaven to me.
My Plan :
- Research Recumbent Bicycles
- What are my requirements?
- Build or Buy?
- New or Used?
- Possible mitigating risk factors.
If anyone has any comments, please let me know. I will keep you up to speed on my progress.
-- jmc.
International Human Powered Vehicle Association (IHPVA)Website
International Human Powered Vehicle Association (IHPVA)Website
I have begun to research recumbent bicycles for possible use in my daily routine which has led me to a variety of interesting & different websites...the first human-powered helicopter and this website, IHPVA.
Just Great Stuff
I have begun to research recumbent bicycles for possible use in my daily routine which has led me to a variety of interesting & different websites...the first human-powered helicopter and this website, IHPVA.
Just Great Stuff
The History of the Human Powered Helicopter Project
The History of the Human Powered Helicopter Project
A human powered helicopter...yeah, right.
But yes! Again, this is very interesting stuff.
Didn't the Wright Bros. start out in a bicycle shop?
A human powered helicopter...yeah, right.
But yes! Again, this is very interesting stuff.
Didn't the Wright Bros. start out in a bicycle shop?
Friday, September 10, 2004
Colchester School District in Colchester, Vermont (U.S.A.) - Home Page
For those interested in the various calendars, events, and news regarding the various schools in the Colchester, VT school district, please follow the link below.
Colchester School District in Colchester, Vermont (U.S.A.) - Home Page
Colchester School District in Colchester, Vermont (U.S.A.) - Home Page
Colchester High School Open House : Quite impressive...
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the Colchester High School (CHS) Open House. I was quite impressed by the administration and faculty efforts to create a supportive, adaptive learning environment which intends to treat the students as responsible participants in the educational process.
During the presenetation, Principal Joyce Stone mentioned that CHS was receiving both regional and national recognition for their progess over the past five years. Of course, this was great news especially when combined with the the improved test results and second lowest drop-out rate in the State of Vermont.
It was a great evening. I left encouraged, informed & excited by my daughter's high school education.
(On a related note, here is a link to the Vermont 2002-2003 High School Completion Report)
During the presenetation, Principal Joyce Stone mentioned that CHS was receiving both regional and national recognition for their progess over the past five years. Of course, this was great news especially when combined with the the improved test results and second lowest drop-out rate in the State of Vermont.
It was a great evening. I left encouraged, informed & excited by my daughter's high school education.
(On a related note, here is a link to the Vermont 2002-2003 High School Completion Report)
Thursday, September 09, 2004
Is Microsoft the next Enron? A Financial Fraud Update
Is Microsoft the next Enron? Probably not, however, this dated report makes interesting reading especially when it cites a leading publication like "The Economist" as supporting their assertion.
Microsoft Financial Fraud Update
Microsoft Financial Fraud Update
Tuesday, September 07, 2004
2004 Kempo Camp Literary Reference : Suzette Elgin's "Native Tongue"
During a lunch table conversation during 2004 MWSDC Kempo Camp, the topic was SF feministic science fiction, linguistics theories & martial arts.
Suzette Elgin’s book, “Native Tongue”, came to mind.
Amazon Link to Elgin's "Native Tongue"
Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis :
According to a theory developed by the linguists Edward Sapir and his student Benjamin Lee Whorf, language closely governs our experience of reality. Sapir writes in “The status of linguistics as a science”, (Language 1929.)
Human beings do not live in the objective world alone, nor alone in the world of social activity as ordinarily understood, but are very much at the mercy of the particular language which has become the medium of expression for their society. It is quite an illusion to imagine that one adjusts to reality essentially without the use of language and that language is merely an incidental means of solving specific problems of communication or reflection. The fact of the matter is that the “real world" is to a large extent unconsciously built up on the language habits of the group.
I was introduced to this linguistic theory by my study of the theories behind the construction of computer programming languages and the papers by Hoare.
…then…my Lovely Wife said I should read this book…. Anyway, I found the book quite compelling and thought-provoking. Apparently, the book is the first of a series. I had read the first two, “Native Tongue” and “The Judas Rose”. Apparently, the third in the series has been published.
What would these topics come up at a martial arts summer camp? That is an interesting question... :-)
Suzette Elgin’s book, “Native Tongue”, came to mind.
Amazon Link to Elgin's "Native Tongue"
Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis :
According to a theory developed by the linguists Edward Sapir and his student Benjamin Lee Whorf, language closely governs our experience of reality. Sapir writes in “The status of linguistics as a science”, (Language 1929.)
Human beings do not live in the objective world alone, nor alone in the world of social activity as ordinarily understood, but are very much at the mercy of the particular language which has become the medium of expression for their society. It is quite an illusion to imagine that one adjusts to reality essentially without the use of language and that language is merely an incidental means of solving specific problems of communication or reflection. The fact of the matter is that the “real world" is to a large extent unconsciously built up on the language habits of the group.
I was introduced to this linguistic theory by my study of the theories behind the construction of computer programming languages and the papers by Hoare.
…then…my Lovely Wife said I should read this book…. Anyway, I found the book quite compelling and thought-provoking. Apparently, the book is the first of a series. I had read the first two, “Native Tongue” and “The Judas Rose”. Apparently, the third in the series has been published.
What would these topics come up at a martial arts summer camp? That is an interesting question... :-)
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
We Are Not in Lake Wobegon Anymore
We are Not in Lake Wobegon Anymore by Garrison Keillor is a yet great piece of writing. Agree, Disagree, it is still good writing worthy of recognition. I would be happy to read good writing from both sides of the aisle but there seems to be a dearth of good, clever, amusing, or thought-provoking writers and satirists in support of the GOP. But ... I would love to learn otherwise.
Good writing educates, challenges, amuses, or inspires. The best writings do all of those things.
I am hopeful to find examples from all perspectives.
--jmc.
Good writing educates, challenges, amuses, or inspires. The best writings do all of those things.
I am hopeful to find examples from all perspectives.
--jmc.
Monday, August 30, 2004
Have eBooks arrived?
A good friend of mine recently reintroduced me to the Baen Free Library which is a great site if you are interested in a potential future direction of publishing in our internet age.
Eric Flint's essay, "Introducing the Baen Free Library", is an excellent manifesto on why publishing houses should make their books freely available on-line. Baen, not only makes makes its newest editions available on-line for modest prices (i.e. many of their electronic format books are $4 versus $8 for the paperback edition if available), it makes the complete text of most of their earily holidings available for free. Amazing, you say. Impossible, you cry. Why do they do it, you should ask. Read Eric Flint's piece, be prepared to slap your forehead and utter a resounding , "Well, of course, Duh!"
--jmc.
Eric Flint's essay, "Introducing the Baen Free Library", is an excellent manifesto on why publishing houses should make their books freely available on-line. Baen, not only makes makes its newest editions available on-line for modest prices (i.e. many of their electronic format books are $4 versus $8 for the paperback edition if available), it makes the complete text of most of their earily holidings available for free. Amazing, you say. Impossible, you cry. Why do they do it, you should ask. Read Eric Flint's piece, be prepared to slap your forehead and utter a resounding , "Well, of course, Duh!"
--jmc.
US Census Bureau Websites : Great Stuff...Actual Data
US Census Bureau QuickFacts is one of those interesting government websites filled with just plain "facts". Ok, it might be a little dry but it is always interesting to see the demographic data on our town, county, state & country.
In addition, the US Census bureau has a couple of other interesting websites including access to their on-line mapping services and their American FactFinder website.
Very interesting stuff...Actual data not sifted, spun, and "interpreted" by pundits, wonks, or politicos. Make your own opinion, it's fun!
In addition, the US Census bureau has a couple of other interesting websites including access to their on-line mapping services and their American FactFinder website.
Very interesting stuff...Actual data not sifted, spun, and "interpreted" by pundits, wonks, or politicos. Make your own opinion, it's fun!
Saturday, August 28, 2004
Information regarding legal issues presented by the Iraq War
www.intel-dump.com is one of the blogs that I read on a regular basis. Mr. Carter does a great job finding the relevant prime sources which to base his analysis. Not blurps or sound bites from other peoples' articles, but real links to the actual reports, articles and documents which he is basing his opinions and using for his analysis.
I am finding his analysis of legal issues being presented by our actions in the Iraq War and Afghanistan to be very thought-provoking and compelling.
Keeping up to date on the lastest reports on the Abu Gharib prison or Guantanmo investigations can be quite tiresome but Phil Carter does a great job keeping on top of the flow of information. While he provides his opinion and analysis freely, he also provides the references necessary to form your own opinion based on the facts available to him. Great stuff. His prior military experience and recent law education make his articles very newsworthy.
Truly Great journalism.
--jmc.
I am finding his analysis of legal issues being presented by our actions in the Iraq War and Afghanistan to be very thought-provoking and compelling.
Keeping up to date on the lastest reports on the Abu Gharib prison or Guantanmo investigations can be quite tiresome but Phil Carter does a great job keeping on top of the flow of information. While he provides his opinion and analysis freely, he also provides the references necessary to form your own opinion based on the facts available to him. Great stuff. His prior military experience and recent law education make his articles very newsworthy.
Truly Great journalism.
--jmc.
Martial Way Self Defense Center has a new website
The Martial Way Self Defense Center of Colchester, VT has a new website. My son and I have enjoyed training there for several years. I hope to write a testamonial regarding my very positive feelings about MWSDC. Simply put, it has my highest recommendation.
--jmc.
--jmc.
Envelope by albWare : Best Damn Envelope Printer App I have used!
Basically, all I ever want to do is print one single envelope. That's it ... it should be simple to do but we all know that trying to print a single simple envelope with MS Word or other word processors is possible but not simple.
Until, Envelope by albWare ... It is an incredible small, easy-to-use, and free piece of software which uses your Windows Address Book function or you can type in the addresses manually.
It has never been easier to print a single envelope.
It is available for Download
Until, Envelope by albWare ... It is an incredible small, easy-to-use, and free piece of software which uses your Windows Address Book function or you can type in the addresses manually.
It has never been easier to print a single envelope.
It is available for Download
Thus it begins...Yet Another Blog! (YAB!)
This is Yet Another Blog ... Nothing special, an area for the notation of thoughts, ideas, interesting, links, etc in which to foster communication with my family, friends, and neighbors.
Essentially, this will be my personal blog versus my other blogs which should maintain a level of consistencty and coherency over time.
No promises on my personal blog, it will be a mish-mash of freely associated bits of information correlated only by my vaguely logical thought processes and often diverse areas of interest.
Booyah!
Essentially, this will be my personal blog versus my other blogs which should maintain a level of consistencty and coherency over time.
No promises on my personal blog, it will be a mish-mash of freely associated bits of information correlated only by my vaguely logical thought processes and often diverse areas of interest.
Booyah!
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