Apparently in mulitple locations in the US, organized protests where carried out. In Lexington, Kentucky, they waved signs that read: "We were all immigrants once," and "We are not terrorists," The Associated Press reported. Many carried Mexican flags. Basically they want the chance at a better life.
Let us dissect some of these statements which truly summarize the thing. "We were all immigrants once." This is true, but most of those immigrants became citizens through legal means. They earned it. They followed the law. Are any of them terrorists? Not likely. I also find it telling many carry the Mexican flag. This seems to confuse the issue of loyalty. The claim they want to opportunites of the US but seem to also have divided loyalties. Also, they claim this issue is for all immigrants regardless of nationality, but clearly the flags prove its really only a Mexican issue. Considering that 70% of the illegals are probably from Mexico then its no surprise.
Key thing about this whole argument though...they want this chance without having to earn through legal means. They basically are arguing that since they have broken the law for so long lets just make it legal and be done with it. There are already means in place to earn citizenship, earn the right to live and work here. The key word is earn. Actually learning English being step 1 rather then living a lifetime here unable to communicate with 90% of the countries population many claim they are loyal (while waving the Mexican flag). The millions of people ignoring it shouldn't just get carte blanche because they have gotten away with it for so long.
You want the rights and freedoms that citizenship brings. Earn it. Become a citizen. End the divided loyalies.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Friday, April 07, 2006
Bush Authorized Plame leak?
In a story spreading like wildfire on the net but mostly ignored on the television, court papers have ex-chief of staff for Chenay claim that the President himself authorized the leak on Plame. The implications of such an act would normally be devestating but since the republicans have made a science of flaunting the law, I see little happening here.
The interesting aspect of the story is that the White House is neither confirming or denying the story. One thing is telling though is that Scott McClellen did feel a need to argue that Bush can de-classify information if he wants to. McClellan said, "Because of the public debate that was going on and some of the wild accusations that were flying around at the time, we felt it was very much in the public interest that what information could be declassified be declassified, and that's exactly what we did."
Of course this doesn't answer the question of why the White House wasn't up front about that in 2003. Why allow a two year plus investigation, costing who knows how much money continue if they believes the President can do what he wants? To me the whole thing stinks to high hell. If true, the story confirms my theory that the leak had to come from the top.
The interesting aspect of the story is that the White House is neither confirming or denying the story. One thing is telling though is that Scott McClellen did feel a need to argue that Bush can de-classify information if he wants to. McClellan said, "Because of the public debate that was going on and some of the wild accusations that were flying around at the time, we felt it was very much in the public interest that what information could be declassified be declassified, and that's exactly what we did."
Of course this doesn't answer the question of why the White House wasn't up front about that in 2003. Why allow a two year plus investigation, costing who knows how much money continue if they believes the President can do what he wants? To me the whole thing stinks to high hell. If true, the story confirms my theory that the leak had to come from the top.
McKinney Apologies`
Congresswomen McKinney was finally forced to see the light and apologize for her horrible behavior in striking an officer. She even did it on the House floor. "There should not have been any physical contact in this incident," McKinney said. "I am sorry that this misunderstanding happened at all, and I regret its escalation and I apologize." It may be too little to late as the charges are already before a grand jury. I don't think she deserves jail time but frankly she should get the same treatment any average citizen would get for doing the same thing be it a fine or jail time. Not sure what normally happens in DC on cases such as that.
XP Gaming on a Mac works
Some people have dared to experiment and have discovered that PC games work just fine on a Intel Mac. It should but since this is all new, it never hurts to be sure. What I am interested in though is performance comparisons. Hopefully soon someone will post some benchmark tests of XP systems versus various Mac systems to see who is king.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Apple official allows boot to XP
Today Apple released a beta version of "Boot Camp" that allows Microsoft XP to be installed on Apple intel based computers. The program also comes with the needed drivers for most of Apple's hardware and monitors. About the only thing not support is the remote and iSight camera. Hopefully this will be corrected with the final version of Boot Camp is released with "Leopard", the OS X upgrade.
With this development, once OS X 10.5 comes out, there is no reason to not try out the new suite of Apple products coming in the pipeline. I plan on trying out the Mac Mini.
Download the software here.
McKinney Needs Some Jail Time
It appears that the capitol police are going ahead with assault charges against US Representative McKinney. While elsewhere she would have already been tossed in jail and released on bail by now, the "stature" of the person combined with the way Washington DC justice system functions, means this case has to go before a grand jury. This is actually a colossal waste of money for a little thing, but sadly, its become necessary due to how horribly McKinney handled this whole situation.
If she had simply made a apology/non-apology that politicians are famous for, this might have gone away. Instead she immediately went for the race card. Something she has historically done, but usually with at least a little hesitation. Even when running against a black Democrat candidate, she used race to help her get votes. Habits die hard I guess.
As a result of her own behavior, she painted the police in a corner. Do nothing, they look weak, ineffective and easily pushed over. Also, McKinney probably would have forced them to fire the officer which would have severely impacted the ability for them to do their jobs as they would always wonder if the next person they stopped could cost them their job.
Finally there is a hypocrisy of the whole thing. She is a lawmaker who has made it very clear she thinks she is above the law. A security officer stopped her because he didn't recognize her. Her response is to hit him. In what world is that an appropriate response? If it had occurred to anyone else, anywhere else, we would have called them a damn fool. In McKinney's world though its the officer's fault for not memorizing her face. Why he should have to do that is beyond me. If she behaved like the adult she claims to be, the situation would have resolved itself in minutes instead of becoming this pathetic farce.
The worst part? She pretty much guaranteed herself re-election. Sadly her constituents are not the best and the brightest. They prefer flash over substance, loud over results. I say this as a former resident and result of her district. A district whose conditions and education level is abysmal and I hear little of McKinney's part in improving things.
Katie Couric moves to CBS
Katie Couric made it official that she is moving to CBS to anchor The CBS Evening News and appear on 60 Minutes beginning in September. The vocalized reason is the opportunity, history, yada-yada. The real reason is moolah with a rumored pay day of around $50 million for 5 years. Her replacement on Today? Meredith Vieira from The View.
The real question though is why should the viewing audience care? The answer of course is we shouldn't. When was the last time Couric even showed journalistic ability? When she interviewed the celeb du jour with the usual litany of softball questions? That represents 20 years of experience? The reality is a news anchor today is much different from yesteryears. Today they are simply talking heads reading from a script providing by writers and producers. It doesn't take any special skill to read a script. And don't point at 60 minutes. Those are also canned. The producers are one that does the research, interviews the people, edits the story, everything. The only thing the on air talent does is show up to film a few scenes from a script. Again, zero display of journalism.
From a business move, this might be genius but I think CBS is in for a rude awakening. The audience at the crack of dawn is much different from an audience during a setting sun.
DeLay Quits Congress
Representative Tom DeLay has finally decided to step down from Congress and not run for re-election. His reason is that since he couldn't gaurantee a win, there was no point in running. Actually logical. I think the real reason he quit is because the Republican leadership ordered him to. DeLay was the grand poobah of the Republican congress for the last five years during these times of corruption and rubber stamping. By taking him off the table, the Democrats loose a potent weapon for Congress seats and "proves" that Republicans have cleaned up. This of course is bullshit, but perception is everything during an election year. I wonder what jackass his district will send next.
Rome, GA vs Gordon Lee case dismissed
About a year and a half and $50,000 in defense attorney fees (who knows how much it cost the state), the case against comic retailer Gordon Lee was dismissed. Apparently a fundamental fact of the case, who was given "Alternative Comics #2" was incorrect. It wasn't a nine year old, but supposedly his six year old brother that was given the comic, which Rome prosecutors deemed offensive and dangerous to minors.
Two odd things about that, one is how in the world did the DA Paul Cadle, makes such a monumental error, and 2) doesn't that make it sound a little bit worse as far as a crime is concerned? Yet for some reason, instead of filing felony charges again, the DA is going to file misdemeanor charges again but with the 6 year old as the offended minor.
If I was a Rome citizen, I would be more then a little pissed that my tax payer money was being wasted on such cases.
Two odd things about that, one is how in the world did the DA Paul Cadle, makes such a monumental error, and 2) doesn't that make it sound a little bit worse as far as a crime is concerned? Yet for some reason, instead of filing felony charges again, the DA is going to file misdemeanor charges again but with the 6 year old as the offended minor.
If I was a Rome citizen, I would be more then a little pissed that my tax payer money was being wasted on such cases.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Bull -censored- !
The FCC has rules that using the word shit and any iteration of it is no longer allowed on the airwaves it controls without a heavy fine. Besides the fact that the FCC is not an elected lawmaking body, I am not aware of the First Admendent of the Constitution allowing such behavior. Yet here we are, just accepting it as par the course.
Here is a problem with this "law." It no longer allows for the use of the word "bullshit." This oh so powerful word that allows us to easily and quickly call people on the inaccuracies and exaggerations that come from their mouths. A word that is frequently used in conjunction with our elected leaders. Basically, by saying this word is "illegal", they are squashing our political speech. Yet we accept it.
What bugs me about this whole thing though is that the FCC claims they do it because the public demands it. They base this off of the complaints they get. Complaints that time and time again have come not from the public in general but watchdog groups like Parents Television Council.
A group with agenda, a group that by definition is against anything that doesn't present a happy, god loving (really Christian god-loving) world. All it takes is one of their ilk to submit a report and the FCC can and does make decisions that effects everyone. I don't want some unknown stranger to decide what I can and cannot watch. I can make those decisions just fine thank you very much. I am sure many would agree as this TV survey apparently shows.
Read more about it over at Buzzmachine.com where Jeff Jarvis writes about it with much more skill then I can muster with "In Defense of Bullshit". His analysis of the report is here.
Here is a problem with this "law." It no longer allows for the use of the word "bullshit." This oh so powerful word that allows us to easily and quickly call people on the inaccuracies and exaggerations that come from their mouths. A word that is frequently used in conjunction with our elected leaders. Basically, by saying this word is "illegal", they are squashing our political speech. Yet we accept it.
What bugs me about this whole thing though is that the FCC claims they do it because the public demands it. They base this off of the complaints they get. Complaints that time and time again have come not from the public in general but watchdog groups like Parents Television Council.
A group with agenda, a group that by definition is against anything that doesn't present a happy, god loving (really Christian god-loving) world. All it takes is one of their ilk to submit a report and the FCC can and does make decisions that effects everyone. I don't want some unknown stranger to decide what I can and cannot watch. I can make those decisions just fine thank you very much. I am sure many would agree as this TV survey apparently shows.
Read more about it over at Buzzmachine.com where Jeff Jarvis writes about it with much more skill then I can muster with "In Defense of Bullshit". His analysis of the report is here.
Studios agree to sell movies online
Seven movies studios - Warner Bros, Universal, Sony, Paramount, Fox and MGM - basically all the ones that matter, have agreed to start distributing their movies online via MovieLink and CinemaNow. The price, $10 - $30, depending on the movie. In other words, the same price as a DVD. The question you have to ask is why?
Well, one, by bypassing the ever popular iTunes, the studios retain total control over everything, and get all the profits. If go through Apple, they get a small percentage of each sell, even if a penny, thats a penny to much for the studios.
Second, Apple would try to have some control over the content and its use. Apple currently allows the music to be "yours" to do with as you see fit, wether copy it to disc, to the iPod, whatever. The movie studios only allow the movies to be copied to DVD if its a Movielink "authorized" computer, whatever that means. More then likely there would be use restrictions out the yazoo.
This method will also help the studios in their attempts to see every tom, dick and jane on the internet. Now they can go to court and say "see! we did try to provide an online alternative". Nevermind that the price is rediculous.
If anyone you know considers getting these movies from online, slap them. Seriously. Anyone that uses these sites with prices that make no attempt to compete with DVDs needs to be smacked for stupity. If go online, you are limiting what you can do. Basically you can play it on your computer..and thats about it. Those special features? If available, probably extra. Long story short, until the MPAA is serious about competing, the consumer should show them the door. This "plan" and these prices are simply insulting.
DS Like coming May 21?
New Super Mario Bros for the Nintendo DS has been delayed a week to May 21st, according to the official website. The theory is the delay is so that Nintendo can launch the DS Lite in North America with a new Mario game.
The theory has legs. One, Nintendo likes to launch every system with Mario whenever possible. Two, they like to launch software on Wednesday and hardware on weekends. May 21st is a Sunday. Finally, after a system is released in Japan, its about three months later it shows up stateside. Japan got the DS Lite in Febuary.
The theory has legs. One, Nintendo likes to launch every system with Mario whenever possible. Two, they like to launch software on Wednesday and hardware on weekends. May 21st is a Sunday. Finally, after a system is released in Japan, its about three months later it shows up stateside. Japan got the DS Lite in Febuary.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Official Nintendo Specs?
IGN is reporting that is has the info on the full specs for the Nintendo Revolution coming probably September of 2006. The specs basically says its 2x as powerful as the Gamecube but only half the power of the PS3 and X-Box 360.
Some stats:
- CPU clocked at 729MHz, versus 485MHz for GameCube, 733MHz for XBox, and 3.2GHz for XBox 360. Note different architectures for each, so not 100% compariable, but it does illustrate that CPU power, ie processing power, the Revolution is pretty average.
- Graphics card speed for Revolution is 243MHz, GameCube is 162MHz, XBox is 233MHz, and no info on the XBox 360. Basically the graphics are a step up over the GameCube but probably fall way short of the abilities of the PS3 and 360.
- Memory for the Revolution is 88MBs of RAM, Gamecube is 40MBs, XBox 64MBs, and PS3 is 512MBs. Uh once again the Revolution is falling short. Less memory, means more frequent loads, means less detailed graphics, means just less in general. However, the Revolution will allow external memory to be added via ports so the numbers can be boosted. How that impacts performance? On a computer, it means good things, but a dedicated gaming device? I doubt not so much.
Clearly Nintendo has no intention to go head to head with Sony and Microsoft in hardware. This indicates that Nintendo is planning to conquer the market with price point, its unparalleled ability to make fun creative games, and its extensive access to games for the Virtual Library. Suffice it to say, Nintendo is throwing out saying its not the hardware but the software that makes the system. It worked for the DS over the PSP.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Bush's Chief of Staff resigns
Bush's chief of staff of 5 and a 1/2 years, Andrew Card resigned today. His replacement is Josh Bolten who was the Policy Directory of the Bush-Cheney transitition and director of OMB. What does this mean for the country? Not a thing, its basically tradinng one yes-man for another yes-man. For republicans, its a trading of the gatekeeper to the President. This will give them the illusion that their concerns may be heard and action taken. The reality, of course, is that nothing will change. Personally I just hope that Card is feeling a bit resentful and decides to lash out in public ways.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Nintendo Revolution or Nintendo Go?
Nintendo President Satoru Iwata gave his keynote today at the Game Developer Conference. I am sure much was discussed about this and that for the industry but the news of interest is a leak of what could be the finalized name of the console, calling it Go. Remember the name "Revolution" was just the project codename but it has never been the official name. Personally its sounds like a bunch of hogwash based on guesses.
In more concrete news, Nintendo has added Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx games to the Virtual Console in a "best of" manner. The games nor cost was announced. With this additional though that means that players can get hold of the entire 8-bit and 16-bit video game highlights. If they could toss in 80s - 90 arcade games and Atari, they could have all of pre-playstation history available on one machine.
Additionally, a new Zelda games was revealed for the DS called The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass. The game sounds like it will make much use of the DS touchpad and stylus and the graphics are in the flavor of the Wind Waker.
In more concrete news, Nintendo has added Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx games to the Virtual Console in a "best of" manner. The games nor cost was announced. With this additional though that means that players can get hold of the entire 8-bit and 16-bit video game highlights. If they could toss in 80s - 90 arcade games and Atari, they could have all of pre-playstation history available on one machine.
Additionally, a new Zelda games was revealed for the DS called The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass. The game sounds like it will make much use of the DS touchpad and stylus and the graphics are in the flavor of the Wind Waker.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Bill O'Reilly: Special Victims Unit
The New Yorker's Nicholas Lemann did an excellent writeup of Bill O'Reilly's rise to cable power and the impact he has had. It also discusses how the show has moved away from politics and more into victim discussions, most notably what a poor victim O'Reilly is from the people that dare to bash him (nevermind they do it with those annoying things called facts and his own words). The overall point is that O'Reilly is the forefront that spearheaded cable news' move from information to sensationalism. If looking for facts, go elsewhere, if want opinions and talking points, go to cable news. Gee thanks Bill.
Final Fantasy parody video
A video worth watching for any fan of the Final Fantasy series. The creators did a good job of nailing down the fighting system with the grunts and jerks and how the characters move from environment to environment. Effective use of editing.
See it here.
See it here.
60GB iPod Video "at risk"
Apple lists the black and white versions of the 60gig iPod video "at risk" for retailers this week. There are many reason for this such as low supplies, problem with manufacturing, shipping delays...or plans to release a updated version.
There have been rumors for a while of an iPod video 2.0 but would Apple really release that version not even 6 months after the current version? On one hand I hope so because the new version is theorized to be touch based with bluetooth headphones. On the other hand I already dropped $400 for the thing and don't want to feel like I am missing out on the latest and greatest again since such a leap in tech would make an upgrade worth considering (despite knowing its stupid to do it).
In either case, the word will probably come down around April 1 since for the last few years Apple has announced something around that time. Ah Apple quit teasing. It hurts us. Or at least if tease make it something truly delicious like native support for a Windows boot.
There have been rumors for a while of an iPod video 2.0 but would Apple really release that version not even 6 months after the current version? On one hand I hope so because the new version is theorized to be touch based with bluetooth headphones. On the other hand I already dropped $400 for the thing and don't want to feel like I am missing out on the latest and greatest again since such a leap in tech would make an upgrade worth considering (despite knowing its stupid to do it).
In either case, the word will probably come down around April 1 since for the last few years Apple has announced something around that time. Ah Apple quit teasing. It hurts us. Or at least if tease make it something truly delicious like native support for a Windows boot.
Monday, March 20, 2006
Toon News
FoxNews.com is suggesting that maybe Isaac Hayes did not quit South Park. Instead some other did it for him. Who the other is unknown but its assumed its Scientology related with the backing of Tom Cruise. The evidence for this? Apparently on 1/17/06 Hayes has a minor stroke. Minor being it didn't kill him or paralize. A stroke is a stroke that that means a lenghty recovery time. One assumes that if recovering from a stroke the last thing on your mind is what some cartoon makers are up to or did 6 months ago. Further evidence in the article is a reference to a interview by the AV Club over at theonion.com. In it they asked Hayes about the Scientolgy bashing episode of South Park that is assumed to be the catelyst for Hayes quitting.
AV Club: They did just do an episode that made fun of your religion, Scientology. Did that bother you?
Hayes: Well, I talked to Matt [Stone] and Trey [Parker] about that. They didn't let me know until it was done. I said, 'Guys, you have it all wrong. We're not like that. I know that's your thing, but get your information correct, because somebody might believe that [expletive], you know?' But I understand what they're doing. I told them to take a couple of Scientology courses and understand what we do. [Laughs.]
Hmm so he doesn't speak out when informed about the episode, doesn't speak out when it aired, doesn't speak out after it aired, says nothing while Cruise fights the airing in England, and just before the eve of the repeat, he quits? Once you toss in the stroke (if true) this whole story is starting to stink to high hell.
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In Fox Sunday cartoons news, King of the Hill got a new season order, necessitating the rehiring of pretty much everyone since they closed shop last year on the assumption they where canceled. While doing that, Fox execs also ordered seasons 18 and 19 of the Simpsons, so get your Homer fix through 2008 at least.
Finally Billy West of Futurama gave fans collective glee by reporting on his forums that 26 new eps of the show where ordered. For 24 hours much happiness and joy was felt. Then he dashes them "I'm sorry I gave inaccurate info on the cartoon. I was told on one end that the TV show was a go but DXC enlightened me (with a hammer) that this was not the case." DXC is David X Cohen, the grand pubah of the show. On bright side the direct to DVD movies are still a go.
AV Club: They did just do an episode that made fun of your religion, Scientology. Did that bother you?
Hayes: Well, I talked to Matt [Stone] and Trey [Parker] about that. They didn't let me know until it was done. I said, 'Guys, you have it all wrong. We're not like that. I know that's your thing, but get your information correct, because somebody might believe that [expletive], you know?' But I understand what they're doing. I told them to take a couple of Scientology courses and understand what we do. [Laughs.]
Hmm so he doesn't speak out when informed about the episode, doesn't speak out when it aired, doesn't speak out after it aired, says nothing while Cruise fights the airing in England, and just before the eve of the repeat, he quits? Once you toss in the stroke (if true) this whole story is starting to stink to high hell.
----------
In Fox Sunday cartoons news, King of the Hill got a new season order, necessitating the rehiring of pretty much everyone since they closed shop last year on the assumption they where canceled. While doing that, Fox execs also ordered seasons 18 and 19 of the Simpsons, so get your Homer fix through 2008 at least.
Finally Billy West of Futurama gave fans collective glee by reporting on his forums that 26 new eps of the show where ordered. For 24 hours much happiness and joy was felt. Then he dashes them "I'm sorry I gave inaccurate info on the cartoon. I was told on one end that the TV show was a go but DXC enlightened me (with a hammer) that this was not the case." DXC is David X Cohen, the grand pubah of the show. On bright side the direct to DVD movies are still a go.
Friday, March 17, 2006
PS3 to come with 60 gig harddrive
Apparently by some means, its been officially confirmed that the PS3 will come with a 60 gig harddrive. Cool but this does mean the price is more and more likely to be $500 when it does come out. Read what few details here.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
$9 Trillion Deficit approved
Today, Congress along party lines of Republicans for and Democrats against, approved a bill that will allow the deficit to be increased to $9 Trillion dollars. That is $9,000,000,000,000. Lots of zeros. It represents about $30,000 for every man, woman and child in the United States. This increase is to avoid a election damaging (and rich angering) tax increase that will allow more money for Iraq (building countries on our dime is expensive) and Medicare (cause of a fiasco of the pharmacy program).
In other news of fiscal irresponsibility or at least an odd sense of prorities, Republicans shot down a measure to increase funding to Veterans medical services by $1.5 billion. Unlike the above where its just borrowed, this would have been paid for by closing loopholes in the corporate tax law. Loopholes are defined as an ambiguity that makes it possible to evade a difficulty or obligation. Basically the law would have forced corporations to pay the taxes they owed anyway and would have used the money to help our Veterans. You know the whole "Support the Troops!" thing the republicans are always using as a defense for Iraq criticism.
Apparently we can borrow money to add $91 billion to rebuild Iraq, but Congress can't be bothered to close some tax code that would have paid for additional Veteran benefits. Am I the only one that finds that idea completely nuts?
In other news of fiscal irresponsibility or at least an odd sense of prorities, Republicans shot down a measure to increase funding to Veterans medical services by $1.5 billion. Unlike the above where its just borrowed, this would have been paid for by closing loopholes in the corporate tax law. Loopholes are defined as an ambiguity that makes it possible to evade a difficulty or obligation. Basically the law would have forced corporations to pay the taxes they owed anyway and would have used the money to help our Veterans. You know the whole "Support the Troops!" thing the republicans are always using as a defense for Iraq criticism.
Apparently we can borrow money to add $91 billion to rebuild Iraq, but Congress can't be bothered to close some tax code that would have paid for additional Veteran benefits. Am I the only one that finds that idea completely nuts?
XP on Mac offical
A contest, started by Colin Nederkoorm, offered up some money to have whoever could boot Windows XP on an Intel MAc, have windows coexist with OS X and not interfere with operation of either, and at bootup gives the user the option to choose which OS to boot. The money started at $100 but through donations ballooned up to $13000.
The contest finally has a winner. Confired by Colin, the solution is now wild on the net for whoever wants to try it. Be wary though, its a new solution, its probably hasn't been fully vetted so be sure to back up all your data just incase a hard drive/reinstall of OS X is needed.
Go here to the .zip that has the bootloader CD image and how-to info. Apparently will work on MacBook Pro, iMac and Mac mini. Sweetness.
The contest finally has a winner. Confired by Colin, the solution is now wild on the net for whoever wants to try it. Be wary though, its a new solution, its probably hasn't been fully vetted so be sure to back up all your data just incase a hard drive/reinstall of OS X is needed.
Go here to the .zip that has the bootloader CD image and how-to info. Apparently will work on MacBook Pro, iMac and Mac mini. Sweetness.
PS3 Offcially coming November 2006
Sony has finally annoucned a date for the PS3. Its coming "early" November 2006. Ok, not a firm date but its more then gotten in the past about the release. They intend to release it worldwide so none of that Japan first for 6 months, then the US then Europe 3 months after nonsense. Of course you know what that means! Shortages!!! Ebay sellers unite! I actually predicted this release date (but got the price wrong).
Also announced is that the price is going to be $425 or up. I am guessing it will land at $499. The iPod showed that people are willing to pay more if it seems worth it. Since a shortage will happen no matter what, they can always drop the price later. No final specs have been released.
For those on the fence about a PSP, the price is dropping to $199. That is $50 off the current price. I have a PSP, the games as a whole are still designed as if for a PS2 rather then a portable system so I recommend waiting before buying. Go get a DS. The games are top notched nearly across the board. I actually predicted this price drop, just got the time wrong by three months.
Finally, Griffin the makers of mostly iPod accessories has entered the PSP accessory market. They have annouced the release of a iFM radio adapater ($50), transmitter ($50), and headphone ($50). Seems similar to the stuff for the iPod just designed to work with the PSP. Considering a rumored re-design coming of the PSP, I would wait on buying these.
Also announced is that the price is going to be $425 or up. I am guessing it will land at $499. The iPod showed that people are willing to pay more if it seems worth it. Since a shortage will happen no matter what, they can always drop the price later. No final specs have been released.
For those on the fence about a PSP, the price is dropping to $199. That is $50 off the current price. I have a PSP, the games as a whole are still designed as if for a PS2 rather then a portable system so I recommend waiting before buying. Go get a DS. The games are top notched nearly across the board. I actually predicted this price drop, just got the time wrong by three months.
Finally, Griffin the makers of mostly iPod accessories has entered the PSP accessory market. They have annouced the release of a iFM radio adapater ($50), transmitter ($50), and headphone ($50). Seems similar to the stuff for the iPod just designed to work with the PSP. Considering a rumored re-design coming of the PSP, I would wait on buying these.
World's largest video game collection?
Click here for a site that has pics of what seems to be an insane amount of video games. Its just shelves and shelves and more shelves of video games. Its a truly insane collection. Makes me wonder if the guy actually played them all and if so how many did he beat.
Boston Legal diatribe against Bush
Crooksandliars.com has a video grab from the 3/14/06 episode of Boston Legal that takes America to task for its continued dis-interest in all the things Bush has done in these last 4 years. Wehter agree with the view or not, it will get your dander up which is always good TV.
Click here to get to the video.
Shore: At a presidential rally, parade or appearance. If you have on a supportive t-shirt you can be there. If you're wearing or carrying something in protest, you can be removed, This in the United States of America.- This in the United States of America! Is Melissa Hughes the only one embarrassed?
Click here to get to the video.
iTunes adds
For those basketball fantics out there, Apple and CBS will start providing college games on iTunes for $1.99. Seems cheap but once take out all the commercials and other misc timeout and breaks, the games would be just the regulation hour long so makes it a good deal all around if able to stay away from spoilers. Personally this does nothing for me because not much in sports but I can see the benefits of it. Hopefully this will spread to other sports.
iTunes also seems to be lurching towards providing movie content. Assuming you can call it providing since its actually a link that then takes you some Disney controlled site that attempts to rip you off severily for a direct to video movie for $9.99 called High School Musical. If this is the proposed method and price of providing movies, hopefully this method will die a quick and vicious death.
As for the price, whatever Apple and/or Disney exec thought of that needs a solid boot in the rear. The only reason someone should even consider paying $9.99 for a so-so quality download of a movie is if its released on iTunes the same day its released in theatres. That way those that refuse to pay to see the movie at a theatre can still see it in crappy download quality on their computer that may then encourage them to buy the DVD later. Realistically though, even for that the price should be $4.99 at the most.
iTunes also seems to be lurching towards providing movie content. Assuming you can call it providing since its actually a link that then takes you some Disney controlled site that attempts to rip you off severily for a direct to video movie for $9.99 called High School Musical. If this is the proposed method and price of providing movies, hopefully this method will die a quick and vicious death.
As for the price, whatever Apple and/or Disney exec thought of that needs a solid boot in the rear. The only reason someone should even consider paying $9.99 for a so-so quality download of a movie is if its released on iTunes the same day its released in theatres. That way those that refuse to pay to see the movie at a theatre can still see it in crappy download quality on their computer that may then encourage them to buy the DVD later. Realistically though, even for that the price should be $4.99 at the most.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Little info for the South Dakota abortion debate
A little bit of information that sadly supports an interesting tidbit I find about the abortion debate is that the baby is a conservative problem while in the mom but becomes a liberal problem outside of the mom.
- 5 out of the top 10 poorest counties in America are in South Dakota
- 4 out of the top 5 poorest counties in America are in South Dakata
- 2 out of the top 10 poorest counties in America are in Texas
Monday, March 13, 2006
Playstation 3 Presentation
Released is a nearly 2 hour long video of Sony's E3 presentation of the PS3 from last year I think. Its interesting to see and shows what Sony was thinking they wanted to do. Basically take the most power home PC computer on the market today, and it might, just might be as good as a PS3. It would also cost around $3000 versus the probably $500 of the PS3. If what they say it can do versus what the final product will actually have, there really is very little reason to get a PC for gaming purposes.
Highlights:
PS3 Specs:
Core:
- PowerPC Core 3.2GHz
- 512 KB L2 cache
Graphics (7x more powerful then the PS2):
- NVidia RSX at 550MHz
- Multi-way parallel FP shader pipeline
- 60fps
- 128 bit floating point pixel precision (current consoles are 32bit)
- 2k x 1k resolution for high-def televisions
- 136 shader operations per cycle
- over 300m transisters (about 5x over current consoles)
Memory:
- 256 MB XDR RAM at 3.2GHz
- 256 MB GDDR3 VRAM @700MHz
- Detachable 2.5'' HDD slot (ie, a laptop hardrive that is easy to upgrade)
Input/Output:
- 6 USB 2.0 ports (4 front, 2 back)
- 1 Memory Stick, SD card slot
- 1 CompactFlash slot
- 1 AV Multi output
Communication:
- Gigabit Ethernet slots
- Built-in Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g
- Bluetooth for up to 7 controllers
Disc Media:
- Backwards compatible to PS1 and PS2
- CD-DA, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, SACD, DualDisc
- DVD-video, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+RW
- Blu-ray, BD-ROM, BD-R, BD-RE (ie if PS3 is hot, Sony when the next gen DVD format wars by default.)
Digital Media (formats not specified but assume same as PSP):
- Plays audio
- Plays video
- shows pics
Network:
- Allows online play (that was a gimme) with some internet access (probably Sony only places).
- Allows peer 2 peer connections to transfer data (since Sony has TV, music etc properties, how they limit the exchange of data should be of interest).
Of course its too early to tell as often what the device is theorized to be able to do versus what is done with it are two different things. Also, the older the console gets, the more tricks the developers learn and the more they can get out of it. Finally keep in mind that what the say the product will have as features versus what the final product will have can be two different things. However, if they deliver what they promise, the PS3 is going to be the console to beat. Now if only Sony would learn how to make great fun software with the same skill Nintendo has.
Highlights:
PS3 Specs:
Core:
- PowerPC Core 3.2GHz
- 512 KB L2 cache
Graphics (7x more powerful then the PS2):
- NVidia RSX at 550MHz
- Multi-way parallel FP shader pipeline
- 60fps
- 128 bit floating point pixel precision (current consoles are 32bit)
- 2k x 1k resolution for high-def televisions
- 136 shader operations per cycle
- over 300m transisters (about 5x over current consoles)
Memory:
- 256 MB XDR RAM at 3.2GHz
- 256 MB GDDR3 VRAM @700MHz
- Detachable 2.5'' HDD slot (ie, a laptop hardrive that is easy to upgrade)
Input/Output:
- 6 USB 2.0 ports (4 front, 2 back)
- 1 Memory Stick, SD card slot
- 1 CompactFlash slot
- 1 AV Multi output
Communication:
- Gigabit Ethernet slots
- Built-in Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g
- Bluetooth for up to 7 controllers
Disc Media:
- Backwards compatible to PS1 and PS2
- CD-DA, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, SACD, DualDisc
- DVD-video, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+RW
- Blu-ray, BD-ROM, BD-R, BD-RE (ie if PS3 is hot, Sony when the next gen DVD format wars by default.)
Digital Media (formats not specified but assume same as PSP):
- Plays audio
- Plays video
- shows pics
Network:
- Allows online play (that was a gimme) with some internet access (probably Sony only places).
- Allows peer 2 peer connections to transfer data (since Sony has TV, music etc properties, how they limit the exchange of data should be of interest).
Of course its too early to tell as often what the device is theorized to be able to do versus what is done with it are two different things. Also, the older the console gets, the more tricks the developers learn and the more they can get out of it. Finally keep in mind that what the say the product will have as features versus what the final product will have can be two different things. However, if they deliver what they promise, the PS3 is going to be the console to beat. Now if only Sony would learn how to make great fun software with the same skill Nintendo has.
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Apple Windfall if only...
According to some new study of dubious results, if Apple or Microsoft would overcome BIOS differences and allow duel boot on a Mac, Apple could see at least a 22% growth. Personally I think you don't need studies for such a no brainer. Due to the iPod, iTunes, and just the good word of mouth that Apple has, I think alot more then 22% would switch.
Apple is making the assumptions that the curious are willing to drop at least $700 for the cheapest Apple comp, the Mac mini, just to try Apple. Well, they are wrong. Few people are will drop that kind of money for a product they know nothing about and not sure they can use or learn. However, if suddenly they can have Windows installed on it too, its not a gamble. If the like the Apple OS, cool beans the buyer and Apple wins. If they don't like the Apple OS and prefer to go back to Windows...the user wins and so does Apple as they had a convert they didn't have before. The reason is simple, that person will go "I didn't like the Apple OS but man that comp is sweet. Runs fast and looks good."
No matter what, the word of mouth would be good. Most companies would pay good money to have that kind of "problem" but Apple in their misplaced pride refuses to take advantage of what their excellent hardware design could be used to drive sales. It can only be a good thing if along the way millions more tried the Apple OS. The more that try it the more that may convert. Few people however are going to gamble hundred of dollars on a maybe which is what Apple is currently expecting and has been for years now.
Apple is making the assumptions that the curious are willing to drop at least $700 for the cheapest Apple comp, the Mac mini, just to try Apple. Well, they are wrong. Few people are will drop that kind of money for a product they know nothing about and not sure they can use or learn. However, if suddenly they can have Windows installed on it too, its not a gamble. If the like the Apple OS, cool beans the buyer and Apple wins. If they don't like the Apple OS and prefer to go back to Windows...the user wins and so does Apple as they had a convert they didn't have before. The reason is simple, that person will go "I didn't like the Apple OS but man that comp is sweet. Runs fast and looks good."
No matter what, the word of mouth would be good. Most companies would pay good money to have that kind of "problem" but Apple in their misplaced pride refuses to take advantage of what their excellent hardware design could be used to drive sales. It can only be a good thing if along the way millions more tried the Apple OS. The more that try it the more that may convert. Few people however are going to gamble hundred of dollars on a maybe which is what Apple is currently expecting and has been for years now.
Friday, March 10, 2006
Bill O'Reilly losing it
In further proof that Bill O'Reilly is slowly becoming unhinged, he apparently began sicking Fox Security on callers that said stuff he doesn't like. Considering the sheer volume of things he doesn't like and his inability to handle any criticism whatsoever, they probably had to hire a call center to "investigate" his complaints. Nevermind that he is complaining against people that called his call-in show. Click here for a video of Keith Olbermann summurizing and having fun with the latest in O'Reillyland.
AT&T ripping off soldiers
According to a blog from someone that used to be a CEO for a telecom, apparently AT&T is overcharging the soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan to make long distance charges to home. Apparently the cost is $.21/per minute but the real world cost at most is $.01/ per minute. Apparently AT&T can do this because they have the monopoly on phone service to the Armed Services. Not sure if true or not but is a bit of interesting info. Gives you the warm and fuzzies about the Bellsouth & AT&T merger doesn't it?
Lego Aircraft Carrier
Another sweet lego project - an aircraft carrier with planes and other need little features. The pic gallery is here.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Top 10 Strange Lego Creations
Click here to go to a sweet site that shows what it believes to be the top 10 lego creations. I just think they neat as all get out and if anyone has a site that catalogs these sweet creations be sure to link it in the comments. The AC unit above, works to amazingly enough.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Jon Stewart's Oscar Night
I watched Oscar night for one reason only - Jon Stewart. This year I could not have cared less who won what in whatever category. Not for political reasons but just because. I think as I get older, the yearly backpat by the rich for the rich gets more and more tiresome. Hollywood especially is full of itself. Oscar night seemed to highlight this as the only jokes the "stars" could laugh at where those at the expense of politicians. But make fun of the Hollywood culture and machine and it was death ray time from the audience. Can't make fun of Hollywood could have been a theme for the night. As MSNBC.com points out, the stars just don't get Jon Stewart. Of course its seems that most stars are a step above white trash, know it, and hate to be reminded of it. They instead would like to pretend they have been elevated from all the weakness of the common folk. Well, whatever, their loss.
Personally though, I find Jon Stewart hilarious. Most of his jokes where good, his pre-taped stuff excellent and really I was saddened there was not more of him. I also wish he come with all cannons firing. He held back, and the TV audience missed out on much of what makes the Daily Show great. Even holding back though, he was best thing about the night of mostly yawns and meaningless montages.
Personally though, I find Jon Stewart hilarious. Most of his jokes where good, his pre-taped stuff excellent and really I was saddened there was not more of him. I also wish he come with all cannons firing. He held back, and the TV audience missed out on much of what makes the Daily Show great. Even holding back though, he was best thing about the night of mostly yawns and meaningless montages.
Barry Bonds, Steroid Abuser
A new book, Game of Shadows, attempts to detail Bonds' years of steroid abuse beginning in 1998, according to Sports Illustrated. Gee, I am shocked. Man grows about three sizes in muscle mass in about a year while in his late 30s, and the man still thinks the public is retarded enough to not think steroids. Because you know, that just happens all the time. Personally I think baseball (if it had a set which it doesn't) should investigate Bonds, test him after every homerun and in between for giggles, and the first time they can, pounce on him. Build a case and then Pete Rose his ass from baseball. Make him the example that follows all else. Baseball is still feeling the effects of Pete Rose and I imagine the same would occur if Bonds was similarily treated.
Monday, March 06, 2006
South Dakota Abortion Bill signed into law
Today, South Dakota governer signed into law the first bill that is a direct attempt to overturn Roe v Wade. The bill makes any abortion illegal except those that are harming the mother. Pretty much it has to be the mom or the baby. Rape, incest, etc, the baby is a keeper. I am sure pro-lifers are thinking "victory!". I think once the dust settles this will actually be a blow for their cause.
Once people realize this type of law will spread from state to state the same way the anti-gay bills have, many will give pause. Unlike like gay marriage, this type of action directly effects everyone. Its one thing to be all high and mighty when it doesn't effect you, its another when it does.
The main problem I have with the law is it still doesn't accomplish anything. I think I am like most pro-choicers in that we have the same goal - to end abortion. We just differ on the means. We also have more realistic expectations. We know abortion will never end. Things can be done to reduce the number done every year. Things can also be done so that when an abortion is done, its done safetly, in a sterile environment, by trained doctors. I think few want a return to pre-1978 conditions of back room abortions done by anyone with a knife.
We also feel that the mothers rights supercede the potential babies rights. If pro-life, that view is the opposite (with rare exceptions but only because forced to). For me it goes even further. We all know the horror stories when parents are forced to be parents. If the mom doesn't want to be a mom, glad she knows it, better then her creating the next monstor in a plethora that this society already deals with. If I thought the child services system could handle all the babies, that might make me feel better, but it can't handle the load it has now, much less the load that will be created if in the grand utopia pro-lifers envision, all conceived babies are born.
Pro-choice is considered a liberal agenda. Pro-life a conservative one. The interesting thing about this is while the "baby" is in the mother, its a conservative problem, but the moment its born, it becomes a liberal problem with concerns over its care, feeding, education and all those other issues.
I have to give South Dakota credit though. This will probably go to the Supreme Court and with the court makeup as it is now, it will probably past muster easily. Realistically speaking, Roe v Wade has always been on incredibily weak Constitutional ground and this could be the shove that breaks it apart. I don't think though this will be the boon that the religious agenda thinks it will be. I think it will backfire in a big way and all the ground they gained in taking over the government will be lost.
Once people realize this type of law will spread from state to state the same way the anti-gay bills have, many will give pause. Unlike like gay marriage, this type of action directly effects everyone. Its one thing to be all high and mighty when it doesn't effect you, its another when it does.
The main problem I have with the law is it still doesn't accomplish anything. I think I am like most pro-choicers in that we have the same goal - to end abortion. We just differ on the means. We also have more realistic expectations. We know abortion will never end. Things can be done to reduce the number done every year. Things can also be done so that when an abortion is done, its done safetly, in a sterile environment, by trained doctors. I think few want a return to pre-1978 conditions of back room abortions done by anyone with a knife.
We also feel that the mothers rights supercede the potential babies rights. If pro-life, that view is the opposite (with rare exceptions but only because forced to). For me it goes even further. We all know the horror stories when parents are forced to be parents. If the mom doesn't want to be a mom, glad she knows it, better then her creating the next monstor in a plethora that this society already deals with. If I thought the child services system could handle all the babies, that might make me feel better, but it can't handle the load it has now, much less the load that will be created if in the grand utopia pro-lifers envision, all conceived babies are born.
Pro-choice is considered a liberal agenda. Pro-life a conservative one. The interesting thing about this is while the "baby" is in the mother, its a conservative problem, but the moment its born, it becomes a liberal problem with concerns over its care, feeding, education and all those other issues.
I have to give South Dakota credit though. This will probably go to the Supreme Court and with the court makeup as it is now, it will probably past muster easily. Realistically speaking, Roe v Wade has always been on incredibily weak Constitutional ground and this could be the shove that breaks it apart. I don't think though this will be the boon that the religious agenda thinks it will be. I think it will backfire in a big way and all the ground they gained in taking over the government will be lost.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Nancy Grace's history a myth?
A write-up came out on the observer.com that puts forth the idea that Nancy Grace's great motivation, the death of her fiance, was in fact largely exaggerated. If ever watch this women on CNN she is a this loud, obnoxious, "I know it all" type who clearly often knows and understands little. She also like to bring up whenever she can, as often she can, how over 25 years ago she was a "victim". Actually the BF that died was the larger victim that that is neither here nor there to her.
Her story is that basically the justice system failed her, that her boyfriend's killer, a thief basically got away with murder after appealing the case. Turns out that the killer was a friend of the boyfriend, mentally retarded, never tried to appeal and is sitting in jail. When asked about this, she claims she couldn't be bothered to find out about the killer.
Does that make since to you? Here she is using this moment as a defining moment of her life that set her on the path of rightousness and she can't even be bothered to get the details right? It sounds more like she created a history with a kernal of truth and through the constant and frequent retelling of the lies, she has literally talked herself into believing the lies are the truth. When people do that, there is only one word to describe them - pathetic.
Her story is that basically the justice system failed her, that her boyfriend's killer, a thief basically got away with murder after appealing the case. Turns out that the killer was a friend of the boyfriend, mentally retarded, never tried to appeal and is sitting in jail. When asked about this, she claims she couldn't be bothered to find out about the killer.
Does that make since to you? Here she is using this moment as a defining moment of her life that set her on the path of rightousness and she can't even be bothered to get the details right? It sounds more like she created a history with a kernal of truth and through the constant and frequent retelling of the lies, she has literally talked herself into believing the lies are the truth. When people do that, there is only one word to describe them - pathetic.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
NES Super Mario Bros racing
Go here, for a fabulous video of two people racing to beat the orginial Super Mario Bros. for the NES. Its best with sound as the audience is happily cheering them on.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Intel-based Mac mini announced
Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple, unveiled some new products today at a press conference. The highlight of the event is the new Mac Mini based on Intel chips. For $600 you get a 1.5GHz Intel Core Solo, 512 RAM, 60GB hard drive and DVD/CD-RW drive. For $800, your get 1.66GHZ Intel Core Duo procesor, 512 RAM, 80GB hard drive and SuperDrive dual-layer DVD burner.
If interested in trying out Apple, this is a good start. Decent price, decent performance in a nice little package that takes up almost no space. However, gaming machine this isn't. The graphics card, Intel GMA950, uses shared memory. If going to do gaming you would first need to upgrade the RAM to a gig and even that wouldn't help on games where frames per second are crucial. but then Apple isn't know for its gaming. Unless planning on playing Worlds of Warcraft on an Apple computer, its almost a non-issue. For now I am going to wait. The price point isn't sweet enough for me to sacrifice gaming.
Also announced is something called the iPod Hi-Fi Stereo. It basically looks like a black and white old style speaker with an iPod dock on top. It supports the iPod remote (that continues to work only in line of sight). It is also $350 big ones and will connect to your TV. Frankly its not worth it. If going to get a speaker at that cost you might as well go BOSE or a full surround sound system that can play iPod and do much more. Apple is on the right track with sound systems but adding what amounts to $150 extra to the cost because they added "iPod" to the title is a rough start.
Finally Apple also introduce its official leather iPod case...for $99. Yep a silly case that almost costs as much as a Nano. Also calling it a case is being generous. Its actually the same sleeve that comes with iPods only made out of leather. Once again, because it has the name "iPod" attached, Apple is charging about 3x more then its really worth. I guess this is just another example of what an iPod lover tolerates but I will spend my money elsewhere thanks so much.
If want some more info, screenshots and little hand-on information, Engadget.com has all the info.
If interested in trying out Apple, this is a good start. Decent price, decent performance in a nice little package that takes up almost no space. However, gaming machine this isn't. The graphics card, Intel GMA950, uses shared memory. If going to do gaming you would first need to upgrade the RAM to a gig and even that wouldn't help on games where frames per second are crucial. but then Apple isn't know for its gaming. Unless planning on playing Worlds of Warcraft on an Apple computer, its almost a non-issue. For now I am going to wait. The price point isn't sweet enough for me to sacrifice gaming.
Also announced is something called the iPod Hi-Fi Stereo. It basically looks like a black and white old style speaker with an iPod dock on top. It supports the iPod remote (that continues to work only in line of sight). It is also $350 big ones and will connect to your TV. Frankly its not worth it. If going to get a speaker at that cost you might as well go BOSE or a full surround sound system that can play iPod and do much more. Apple is on the right track with sound systems but adding what amounts to $150 extra to the cost because they added "iPod" to the title is a rough start.
Finally Apple also introduce its official leather iPod case...for $99. Yep a silly case that almost costs as much as a Nano. Also calling it a case is being generous. Its actually the same sleeve that comes with iPods only made out of leather. Once again, because it has the name "iPod" attached, Apple is charging about 3x more then its really worth. I guess this is just another example of what an iPod lover tolerates but I will spend my money elsewhere thanks so much.
If want some more info, screenshots and little hand-on information, Engadget.com has all the info.
Nintendo DS news
Gamebrink.com has some hands-on information and lots of screenshots of the new DS Lite that is being released on March 2 in Japan. Not sure what the date is for the US and to lazy to go hunt for it. Anyway for those that are interested in the upgrade, it does have some useful information such as the brighter screens, the longer stylus and the fact that the old style Gameboy Advance cartridges stick out a little. If you are hoping for larger screens, forget it, they are the same size.
Monday, February 27, 2006
"Serenity" profitable thanks to DVD sales
According to a report on Newsarama.com, the DVD sales of Serenity where 2 million plus after about 5 weeks of sales. So box office gross plus domestic DVD sales (foreign not out yet) means that the movie has made an estimated 11 million in profit. Not record shattering or anything, but it gives hope that while a Serenity sequel or reprise of the Firefly series is highly unlikely, the grand experiment of taking a failed TV show and trying to do it justice elsewhere isn't entirely without merit.
Georgia says no to FDR day
The Georgia House Special Rules Committe decided to block a bill that would make an FDR day in the state of Georgia. Why Georgia? Well that is the location of Warm Springs, the place FDR vacationed, where he went to heal, and where he died after serving this country and sheperding us through World War II. His accomplishments are unmatched in our history. By most, he is considered our greatest President. So what did he do to not deserve a special day of recognition? He cheated on his wife.
Now this isn't a good thing by any means, but apparently in the eyes of Rep. Calvin Hill, Republican for Canton, that trumps all else. Apparently cheating on your wife can eliminate all good, any accomplishments, and destroys all that goes with your history. Even worse, this decision is based on a "constituent's concern that it doesn't make a good statement." Thats right, he is choosing to block this legislation because one person told him too. Apparently when Canton wasn't paying attention, this person became the voice for all.
Some may ask, is an FDR day even needed? Probably not. But that isn't the point. This bill wasn't blocked because it was unnecessary or redundant or any other logical reason. It was blocked because one person and their idiot of a representative has decided that an act of wrong eradicates an entire history of accomplishment.
Now this isn't a good thing by any means, but apparently in the eyes of Rep. Calvin Hill, Republican for Canton, that trumps all else. Apparently cheating on your wife can eliminate all good, any accomplishments, and destroys all that goes with your history. Even worse, this decision is based on a "constituent's concern that it doesn't make a good statement." Thats right, he is choosing to block this legislation because one person told him too. Apparently when Canton wasn't paying attention, this person became the voice for all.
Some may ask, is an FDR day even needed? Probably not. But that isn't the point. This bill wasn't blocked because it was unnecessary or redundant or any other logical reason. It was blocked because one person and their idiot of a representative has decided that an act of wrong eradicates an entire history of accomplishment.
Friday, February 24, 2006
Spider-Man 3 Teaser Poster
Whee black spider-man costume. For non-comics fans, its just purty and different. For comic fans...well I never understood what the big deal was.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Retail Experience should be required
It should be a requirement that everyone, regardless of class, ability, postion, etc should have at least 3 to 6 months of retail, customer level experience, before they can move on to other things. Just like pretty much all jobs require at least a diploma, they should require retail experience. The reason is multi-fold. For one, it teaches compassion. It teaches what the customer level experience is like, especially when on the receiving end. Its a skill and experience that will follow at any job regardless of what it is. It teaches patience. Its teaches control. Most importantly, managers wouldn't make decisions based on book knowledge or theory but actual in the trenches, first hand experience.
What brought this up is this post here. The point of the post is basically how Best Buys mistreated him when he refused to go through the reciept check process. The way he was treated was wrong. It shouldn't have happened. Thats a no brainer. What bothers me though is his refusal and inability to see anyone's else's perspective on it. An Best Buy employee gave a step by step explanation of why the reciept policy is in place, explained how insane customers can be, explained why it ulimately helps the customer and he basically dismisses it because there was a contradiction in the letter. He also, only at the end of the letter, points out that he always dodges the receipt check. Doing that is an indication of his ego and nothing else. He is basically proving what we already knew, that he is an asshole. To be "right" was more important to him. Right about what I don't know because its simply not that important.
The person who wrote this thread, I guarantee has no retail experience. For anyone that has retail experience and face to face customer interactions will tell you, the employee is on the nose. The first rule that you learn when dealing with customer is that they infact are almost always wrong. However, say this to them at their own risk. Customer service really comes down to one skill...ego stroking. More then anything, all the customer cares about is hearing the phrase "you are right." Doesn't matter if taking about the price of lipstick or a plasma screen. Its a gigantic ego stroke where the customer doesn't usually even know what they are talking about.
My overall point is this, retail is a thankless job with poor pay, poor benefits and poor results. Try to treat those that help you with the same dignity you expect yourself to be treated.
What brought this up is this post here. The point of the post is basically how Best Buys mistreated him when he refused to go through the reciept check process. The way he was treated was wrong. It shouldn't have happened. Thats a no brainer. What bothers me though is his refusal and inability to see anyone's else's perspective on it. An Best Buy employee gave a step by step explanation of why the reciept policy is in place, explained how insane customers can be, explained why it ulimately helps the customer and he basically dismisses it because there was a contradiction in the letter. He also, only at the end of the letter, points out that he always dodges the receipt check. Doing that is an indication of his ego and nothing else. He is basically proving what we already knew, that he is an asshole. To be "right" was more important to him. Right about what I don't know because its simply not that important.
The person who wrote this thread, I guarantee has no retail experience. For anyone that has retail experience and face to face customer interactions will tell you, the employee is on the nose. The first rule that you learn when dealing with customer is that they infact are almost always wrong. However, say this to them at their own risk. Customer service really comes down to one skill...ego stroking. More then anything, all the customer cares about is hearing the phrase "you are right." Doesn't matter if taking about the price of lipstick or a plasma screen. Its a gigantic ego stroke where the customer doesn't usually even know what they are talking about.
My overall point is this, retail is a thankless job with poor pay, poor benefits and poor results. Try to treat those that help you with the same dignity you expect yourself to be treated.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Bush and United Arab Emirates Port Deal
As reported by CNN.com and pretty much everywhere else, President Bush supports allowing a United Arab Emirates company to take over the administration of 6 US ports. My understanding is that Coast Guard and other agencies would still handle security. I find it interesting the President "security above all else" Bush supports this.
I am suprised that Frist is even taking pause over the idea. He generally follows Bush around like a dog on most policy decisions. If Frist has doubts, an alarm should be blaring in your head. It doesn't take a genius to figure out this is a security nightmare. Call it a sterotype, but usually companies tend to hire those of their same culture and belief system. Look at any Indian, Korean, Chinese, etc owned business for that. The assumption that things will not change once a new company comes on board is naive at best.
Lawmakers who have called for the deal to be blocked need to "step up and explain why a Middle Eastern company is held to a different standard," Bush said. He has a point. Its not fair and assumes to much. Well to bad. Bush doesn't seem to mind squashing civil liberities in the name of security, why does this give him pause? Why is he all politically correct when his drive on security suddenly effects his friends business interests?
Just from the Danish cartoon fiasco and uproar that is so far far far far far disapportionate to the "crime", I wouldn't allow an Arabian company to take over those ports. Its too big a gamble not only from a security standpoint but its a politically correct nightmare to enforce. If I was that company, everytime there is an accusation, investigation, etc, I would claim racism to protect myself. It would work to. In the end, considering what a fantastic gateway that ports represent to get pretty much anything into the country, the risk doesn't seem worth the rewards.
I am suprised that Frist is even taking pause over the idea. He generally follows Bush around like a dog on most policy decisions. If Frist has doubts, an alarm should be blaring in your head. It doesn't take a genius to figure out this is a security nightmare. Call it a sterotype, but usually companies tend to hire those of their same culture and belief system. Look at any Indian, Korean, Chinese, etc owned business for that. The assumption that things will not change once a new company comes on board is naive at best.
Lawmakers who have called for the deal to be blocked need to "step up and explain why a Middle Eastern company is held to a different standard," Bush said. He has a point. Its not fair and assumes to much. Well to bad. Bush doesn't seem to mind squashing civil liberities in the name of security, why does this give him pause? Why is he all politically correct when his drive on security suddenly effects his friends business interests?
Just from the Danish cartoon fiasco and uproar that is so far far far far far disapportionate to the "crime", I wouldn't allow an Arabian company to take over those ports. Its too big a gamble not only from a security standpoint but its a politically correct nightmare to enforce. If I was that company, everytime there is an accusation, investigation, etc, I would claim racism to protect myself. It would work to. In the end, considering what a fantastic gateway that ports represent to get pretty much anything into the country, the risk doesn't seem worth the rewards.
David Letterman's Cheney "commercial"
A funny little "commerical" called "A Big Bowl of Bad" aired on David Letterman last night. It shows how the whole shooting thing with Vice President Cheney isn't that big a deal.... Click here.
Monday, February 20, 2006
From Don: No greenlight...yet
Another monday, another Don Murphy message board update. Have to give him credit for that. Most, including me, can't be bothered to do that. Anyway, its more of a re-iteration of director Michael's comments, ie hear desire for orginial voices, greenlight is coming, and shooting starts towards end of May. The decision on voices being used is business needs and film goals vs nostagia and desires of the fans. At least everyone is being heard and acknowledge. They might not follow fandom's advice but at least they hear it. I still am sticking with my thinking that they will get recast. A shame really, especially Megatron and a few others, say Starscream and Soundwave, who voices where truly distinct and unique. Optimus Prime and really all of the Autobots are more interchangable.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Sony UMDs not selling
In news of the "Duh" kind, recent reports indicate that the UMD format for movies, only playable on the PSP, are not selling well. Let us count the obvious reasons why not. To begin with the average UMD is $20. The average DVD is $15-$20 depending if on sale or not. On top of that, the UMD has limited space. The result is you get just the movie. None of the extras like commentary and behind the scenes stuff. On top of that, UMDs can only be played on the tiny PSP, while DVDs can be played...well anywhere. So basically you pay more and get much much less buying a UMD. Usually that means a price difference, but in the pretend world that Sony lives in, less equals pay more. If Sony is truly serious about this format, they will compete in the one area they can, the price. The price point must be in the $5-$10 range to stand a chance. If they can't do that, they might as well give up on the format.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Sam's Story
In Superman/Batman #26 is a the plot written by Jeph Loeb's Sam who died recently at the age of 17. Its a who-whos of the comic industry and worth reading and definilty worth buying as all money is going to the Sam Loeb College Scholarship Fund. Click here for all the details about the project.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Dick Chenay Shooting Rant
This is my rant about Vice President Dick Chenay being the first VP since that nations founding to shoot a man while in office. Not so much about the shooting itself but the continued cluster-fuck in handling by the administration and others. What specially gals me is it didn't need to be handled this way. Shit happens. Especially with incompentent "hunters". It would have been a joke on the late night shows for a few days and gone away.
I have yet to hear an explanation for the 22 hour news blackout. There is simply no excuse for it. None. I don't care what was going on. If Cheney had time to go have dinner after the shooting, he had time to get his people working on getting the news out. What he was doing was hiding facts plain and simple while waiting for the guy to die or not. Can't admit that, but basically that is the only thing that explains the wait.
Finally, again no explanation for the gall of Cheney's buds blaming the victim. They repeatedly blamed everyone but the guy that pulls the trigger. Finally Cheney admits he was a fault and even then the ego-maniac felt a need to add a "but..." invalidating everything.
Long story short, this shooting summarizes everything that is wrong with the this administration. Even in cases that are clear cut "shit happens" they feel a need to hide the truth, to dissemble, to avoid responsibility and blame others for their own actions. Its pathetic. Its cowardly. Its un-presidential and stinks of bad leadership.
In addition to this, we have Fox News. They get the interview with Chenay rather then a press conference. Understood, they want a softball interview and Bret Hume is the man to go to for that. He and the job description of "journalist" don't belong together and haven't for years. What is reprehensible is are supposed to report the news and the truth and here they are caught actually hiding information. They withheld pertinient facts for an interview, not only cutting it from the broadcast but then cutting it from the website transcript of the interview. The White House transcript, that describes Chenay knocking a few back a few hours before the shooting, is more complete. Its that isn't gross negligance, I don't know is.
I have yet to hear an explanation for the 22 hour news blackout. There is simply no excuse for it. None. I don't care what was going on. If Cheney had time to go have dinner after the shooting, he had time to get his people working on getting the news out. What he was doing was hiding facts plain and simple while waiting for the guy to die or not. Can't admit that, but basically that is the only thing that explains the wait.
Finally, again no explanation for the gall of Cheney's buds blaming the victim. They repeatedly blamed everyone but the guy that pulls the trigger. Finally Cheney admits he was a fault and even then the ego-maniac felt a need to add a "but..." invalidating everything.
Long story short, this shooting summarizes everything that is wrong with the this administration. Even in cases that are clear cut "shit happens" they feel a need to hide the truth, to dissemble, to avoid responsibility and blame others for their own actions. Its pathetic. Its cowardly. Its un-presidential and stinks of bad leadership.
In addition to this, we have Fox News. They get the interview with Chenay rather then a press conference. Understood, they want a softball interview and Bret Hume is the man to go to for that. He and the job description of "journalist" don't belong together and haven't for years. What is reprehensible is are supposed to report the news and the truth and here they are caught actually hiding information. They withheld pertinient facts for an interview, not only cutting it from the broadcast but then cutting it from the website transcript of the interview. The White House transcript, that describes Chenay knocking a few back a few hours before the shooting, is more complete. Its that isn't gross negligance, I don't know is.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Nintendo DS: TV tuner and Web browser add-ons
Nintendo is planning on adding web browser and a TV tuner to the Nintendo DS sometime around Wednesday, at least in Japan. Both of these add-ons will cost in the range of $30 so unlike the PSP, its not free. It seems Nintendo either made a boo-boo by not making the DS firmware upgradable or they are business geniuses.
The browser will be based on the Opera-based which is typically used on Apple and Unix machines. As for the tuner card, well limited only to "One-Seg" broadcasts rather then analog signals. Since the One-Seg protocol is just now beginning to launch in Japan, I wouldn't hold my breath on the TV capabilities ever making it statistics.
In other news, more Tetris DS shots. This game, especially because of its online capability, will be the must have game of the year. Planned release is still in March and hopefully will stay there.
Playstation 3 September 21, '06 and harddrive-less?
Well the next gen rumors in regards to the Playstation keeps coming out. However, unlike many, this one may have legs. Apparently not only is the Playstation 3 coming out in September but it will not have a harddrive.
The scoop from Next Gen and reported on joystick.com indicates that the PS3 US launch is planned for September 21st. In addition, Sony will launch a service nearly identical to Xbox Live called the Playstation Hub. This indicates that Microsoft is a bigger threat then Sony wants to admit as you don't tend to copy the ideas that are bad. Like XBox live, the use of the service will not be free but hopefully for competitive sake it will not be all that expensive. Out of my ass guess, $15.95 per month.
As for the second rumor, well it seems more like fact as it comes directly from the specs posted on Playstation.com. As the pic above shows, no harddrive but I guess you will be able to buy one to add in the future since it accepts laptop harddrives (which while small are also more expensive then desktop counterparts).
The price point has still not been announced but now that is it without a harddrive, I am going with a $299.99 price tag.
Monday, February 13, 2006
Bush Released his $2.77B Budget
A bit late but wrote it so posting it.
Well, its out. Bush's proposed budget for the next year or so. It all a mess but it comes down to give more to military, spend more in general, cut "entitlement programs" including education and make the rich tax cuts permanent. So its par the course, spend more, take in less cause god forbid he anger the rich folks why we throw aways billions just on interest every month for his debt. Would think someone would point out could do an even bigger for the rich cut if didn't have a deficit to pay off...but then that would require real work.
Either way, the Republicans are still cowards so what you see is what we get with the usual "bridge to nowhere" type porks added on of course.
Well, its out. Bush's proposed budget for the next year or so. It all a mess but it comes down to give more to military, spend more in general, cut "entitlement programs" including education and make the rich tax cuts permanent. So its par the course, spend more, take in less cause god forbid he anger the rich folks why we throw aways billions just on interest every month for his debt. Would think someone would point out could do an even bigger for the rich cut if didn't have a deficit to pay off...but then that would require real work.
Either way, the Republicans are still cowards so what you see is what we get with the usual "bridge to nowhere" type porks added on of course.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Danish Muslim Cartoons
Thanks to muslimcartoons.com and humaneventsonline.com for the pictures.
As the violence continues, Bush and Rice condemn it, one is left with the feeling of "what the fuck!?!?" As this excellent cartoon shows, Islamic leaders and citizens have better things to worry about. Instead they worry over a cartoon rendering of Muhammed by a Danish “infidel”. So here we are.
I think, more then anything over the last 50+ years, the violence over some pretty crappy cartoons shows just how different Islamic world compared to the Western world. Not even Christianity, which has shown a frequent liking of censorship, would advocate this kind of violence. Shoot not even advocate, not only would they condemn it but I don't think it would even occur to most to react in such a violent manner.
It shows that not only is the War on Terrorism futile, but that Bush's grand plan to bring democracy to that region is doomed to failure. For that to succeed, it assumes they define freedom, religious tolerance, and many of our western values the same. They simply do not. They don't want democracy, they want theocracy. They don't want freedom to choose. Nor do they want freedom of the press and ability to express one self.
For the US, until recently anyway, freedom was as defined by the Constitution. For Islam, its defined by the Quran. We get our viewpoints from our government leaders and sadly from our celebrities. They get it from their religious leaders and sadly their terrorist leaders. We define freedom as "I will defend to the death your right to say it". They define freedom as freedom to kill for saying whatever they disagree with (which can very from sect to sect). We try, and sometimes fail, to give equal rights to all. Their Quran finds that concept absurd and therefore so do they.
This incident proves in a way that is both ridiculous and tragic that the Western way is not nor will ever become the Islamic way. The ideas, beliefs, and viewpoints are completely incompatible. It not only summarizes and reinforces all the hatred and stereotypes we have for Islam but it also re-enforces our failure to try to understand them and them us. We are using Iraq as a test lab for democracy. The problem is it’s our version of democracy, not theirs. It’s our ideas, not theirs. It’s our playing field, rather then theirs. We want peace, but we want it on our terms. As a result, the grand experiment will fail. Tragically, if Islamics are willing to kill over cartoons, I hate to imagine the death toll when the Grand Western Democratic Experiment fails.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Fiscal responsibility my #@$
The republicans have started the new year right for them anyway by cutting the budget for "entitlement programs" by $39 billion. Wow, the republicans finally live up to what they used to be, they are going to try to get back to balanced budgets and all that right? Of please, of course not. Don't be naive. This is them just hating any program that doesn't help the rich. For that they have the next bill ready to go: a $60 billion dollar tax cut for the rich. All those cuts for them for the last 5 years, this bill would make em permanent. So while the US spends and spends and spends, the republicans feel steps must be taken to decrease amount of money taken in to pay for the spending. On top of that Bush is asking for additional $120 billion for his various wars.
So we have $39 billion cut over five years:
- Student loans with higher interest rates
- Medicare cuts that have higher premiums
- Medicaid cuts with reducing amount will pay for drugs, increasing premiums, and increasing co-payments
- Pension change, that is actually decent as it penalizes companies $3750 per employee fee for terminating plans, of course that is still cheaper then keeping the plan so don't expect to impact anything.
- Welfare reform that continues freeze on funding.
In return we get:
- $60 billion permanent tax cut for the rich
- $120 billion in spending for wars
- $18 billion for hurrican relief (most of which goes to Halliburton and other Bush related companies who contracted to do the work but instead get paid so much they contract out the work to another contractor who tends to get an additonal contractor who then might actually do the work...eventually)
- $2.3 billion for a mythic bird flu epidemic. Wish they put this much effort in cures such as cancer or AIDS. Drug companies will never come up with those cures, its simple not in their best interests to. More money is made by keeping people on their drugs for years then a one time fix that a cure or vaccine represents.
If followed the Republican example of monetary policy, i would quit my job and then go out and buy a new car and house.
So we have $39 billion cut over five years:
- Student loans with higher interest rates
- Medicare cuts that have higher premiums
- Medicaid cuts with reducing amount will pay for drugs, increasing premiums, and increasing co-payments
- Pension change, that is actually decent as it penalizes companies $3750 per employee fee for terminating plans, of course that is still cheaper then keeping the plan so don't expect to impact anything.
- Welfare reform that continues freeze on funding.
In return we get:
- $60 billion permanent tax cut for the rich
- $120 billion in spending for wars
- $18 billion for hurrican relief (most of which goes to Halliburton and other Bush related companies who contracted to do the work but instead get paid so much they contract out the work to another contractor who tends to get an additonal contractor who then might actually do the work...eventually)
- $2.3 billion for a mythic bird flu epidemic. Wish they put this much effort in cures such as cancer or AIDS. Drug companies will never come up with those cures, its simple not in their best interests to. More money is made by keeping people on their drugs for years then a one time fix that a cure or vaccine represents.
If followed the Republican example of monetary policy, i would quit my job and then go out and buy a new car and house.
Monday, January 30, 2006
$10.7 Billion profit in 3 months
Once again, the oil companies show how to screw the world to new levels of profit. As reported today, ExxonMobil made $10.7 billion in profit for a single quarter. A quarter is 3 months, more or less 90 days. Most companies, shoot most countries wish they could sell that much in a quarter. But Exxon, naw think big. They think "how can we overcharge the world with our monopo...er cartel". Its horrible they get to do that and even worse that Congress allows it.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
DS Lite
Remember the bygone days when a system had to be out for 2 or three years before it was re-designed it a much smaller and cuter package? Usually at a lower price? I miss those days. Now you just feel like a chump for not waiting for the sleeker model.
That seems to be the case with the new DS Lite that Nintendo has announced. The new design apparently is white, works the same but is 1/3 smaller and 20% lighter. Overlap comparison here. Its going to released in Japan for $145 converted to US.
My speculation is it will be released here in the US in early Summer for same price as the current DS model.
That seems to be the case with the new DS Lite that Nintendo has announced. The new design apparently is white, works the same but is 1/3 smaller and 20% lighter. Overlap comparison here. Its going to released in Japan for $145 converted to US.
My speculation is it will be released here in the US in early Summer for same price as the current DS model.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
When to Buy Stuff
According to CNN.com, there are certain times that is is best to make relativily big purchases.
The highlights:
Air tickets: Wednesday, and further from departure date the better the price
Televisions: April
Houses: Winter
Cars: end of the month for quotas, late summer for clearing out models
Video Games: They say holidays, I say first few weeks out have best deals, otherwise have to wait year+ for the clearance or Greatest Hits price drop.
The highlights:
Air tickets: Wednesday, and further from departure date the better the price
Televisions: April
Houses: Winter
Cars: end of the month for quotas, late summer for clearing out models
Video Games: They say holidays, I say first few weeks out have best deals, otherwise have to wait year+ for the clearance or Greatest Hits price drop.
Sunday, January 15, 2006
24 Season 5 Opener
The first 25 minutes...the best season opener ever. Holy @#$%!!! Heard the rumors of who they will kill off but for them to actually do the two they chose after those previous seasons of development is amazing and ballsy. The message is clear: predict nothing for you have no idea what will happen.
Businesses at the economic driver seat?
According to an article on CNN.com, with consumer spending slowing down to housing appreciation decreases, energy increases and interest rate increases, the economy will not only sing along just fine but grow. The reason is because businesses, now flush with cash after five years of Bush tax cuts, will start investing in their own business. Great news. Only took about five years for them to do this. The idea is neat, and honestly I hope the business writer is correct on her assumptions but for me it just rings false.
The reason is simple: why would a company spend a healhly amount of money on itself when the very people it depends on, the consumers, are indicating they may not be buying their stuff for a while? That is like building a new wing on a house while a forest fire rages a few miles away. In theory, if the business invest on themselves, that means more stuff being made, which means more workers, etc etc, but in this new global age, I don't see most of the money making it into American hands but foreign hands. As our trade deficit shows, once american money goes overseas, only a very small percentage makes it back.
Most distrubing in the article was no mention of the workforce. For all the investing companies may (and its a big may) make, none of the talk seems to be about their own workers. Raises and bonuses for the average worker will probably continue to decline as will pensions and other benefits. All this indicates to me, that for a country where businesses has become king, if they do gain the reigns on the economy, they might not never let it go and the only ones that will be hurt is the average worker and the consumer. Hopefully time will prove me wrong.
The reason is simple: why would a company spend a healhly amount of money on itself when the very people it depends on, the consumers, are indicating they may not be buying their stuff for a while? That is like building a new wing on a house while a forest fire rages a few miles away. In theory, if the business invest on themselves, that means more stuff being made, which means more workers, etc etc, but in this new global age, I don't see most of the money making it into American hands but foreign hands. As our trade deficit shows, once american money goes overseas, only a very small percentage makes it back.
Most distrubing in the article was no mention of the workforce. For all the investing companies may (and its a big may) make, none of the talk seems to be about their own workers. Raises and bonuses for the average worker will probably continue to decline as will pensions and other benefits. All this indicates to me, that for a country where businesses has become king, if they do gain the reigns on the economy, they might not never let it go and the only ones that will be hurt is the average worker and the consumer. Hopefully time will prove me wrong.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
PS3 $500?
CNN.com predicts $500 dollars for the PS3 whenever it rolls it. I think it will come out about November for a retail of $299.99. The reason is simple, Sony is hurting. The PSP is not performing up to expectations, PS2 sales are sliding, and no killer game in the horizon. Also, MS is on very shaky ground in Japan but they have a year to solidify their hold. Simply put, if those execs want yearly bonuses, they got to come out the gate running and give Nintendo and MS a very very bloody nose. A competitive price point is the way to do it.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
MacWorld 1/06
Steve Jobs did his traditional January Apple promo that gets lots of press as Apple has been riding a hell of a wave of new products that get people interested in hearing about them even if not going to buy them. Started in '01 with the iPod. So, like many, was waiting with baited breath for what new toys that Jobs was going to introduce. What we got was Apple's new laptop and desktop that run on the Intel chip, a new expensive toy for the existing iPods, and some upgrades to existing software. Suffice it to say, a major disappointment. Maybe the next round of product annoucements. If want the specifics, Engadget did an outstanding job covering the event so I am just going to link to them. Starting with their live blogging of the live keynote (heh makes ya giggle thinking about it).
If want to read details about what was introduced...click here as its a nice summary of all the articles Engadget put up about the new stuff. General info:
MacBook Pro - Slimmer design but identical look to the Powerbook, powered by 2 1.67 or 1.83GHz chips with 512 of RAM and lots of bells and whistles. Basically the most powerful laptop you can buy I do believe. Also expensive ($2000 or $2500) as all get out but then most laptops in this range are. Apple where is the cheapy versions for those that want to dip their toe in the Apple world?
Intel iMac - The all in one computer. The monitor and all the stuff that usually resides in a tower is built right into the monitor casing. Fantastic for those with limited office space or those that just like their shit to look good. This one has the Intel 1.83 or 2.0Ghz chip, ATI x1600 graphics processor. 17 or 20 inch displays. Price is $1299 and $1699. For the design type etc, its priced competivily to the Windows based PCs (if can find em). Then again, if how it looks doesn't matter so much, might as well blow the money on a Windows based tower that would be much more powerful and upgradable.
iPod Radio Remote - The only real toy that is iPod related. Just what it sounds like. Its a remote and its a FM reciever. The display is on the current gen Nano and iPod screen with ability to remember stations. Very useful toy, but also very expensive at $50. I am going to wait however as don't really need the remote feature and would prefer some kind of small add on that plugs into the bottom but otherwise interfaces with the iPod the same. I have enough wires and crap to keep up with, I don't need another.
Other stuff was also shown including updates to iLife, iWork, .Mac, and OS X. Since I know next to nothing about those software suites have no comment. Again read up here. Lots of info to be had.
Tetris goes DS
Tetris is showing up for the DS. Why should you care? Three words: Wi-Fi Internet
Yep, Tetris DS will allow for online play. Finally can prove how good your are or not against up to 4 players. Expected release date is 3/20/06 but since this is Nintendo only believe it when actually see it on stores shelves.
Yep, Tetris DS will allow for online play. Finally can prove how good your are or not against up to 4 players. Expected release date is 3/20/06 but since this is Nintendo only believe it when actually see it on stores shelves.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Abramoff pleads guilty
Abramoff pleads guilty. Who is he? Basically good at getting what he wants by any means necessary including buying off Congressmen. Should be interesting to see what his testimony will reveal since apparently 20+ congressmen may be involved. Of course proving it is a different animal but the reading should be entertaining.
In related new, 49% American adults think Congress is corrupt. To that I say, only 49%? Apparently this country is not as cynical as I thought. To me, all of congress has to be corrupt. I don't care who they are or how lofty the goals, it just doesn't seem possible to get elected and not become corrupt. The money required is simply to high and too many favors are needed to be repaid to not become corrupt.
As an aside, if they are serious about corruption, investigate those congresmen that somehow get much much much wealthier in office. The average congressmen gets in the neighborhood of $150,000 a year while in office. That salary doesn't explain the literal millions of dollars worth of stuff they somehow magically are able to afford once they get elected.
In related new, 49% American adults think Congress is corrupt. To that I say, only 49%? Apparently this country is not as cynical as I thought. To me, all of congress has to be corrupt. I don't care who they are or how lofty the goals, it just doesn't seem possible to get elected and not become corrupt. The money required is simply to high and too many favors are needed to be repaid to not become corrupt.
As an aside, if they are serious about corruption, investigate those congresmen that somehow get much much much wealthier in office. The average congressmen gets in the neighborhood of $150,000 a year while in office. That salary doesn't explain the literal millions of dollars worth of stuff they somehow magically are able to afford once they get elected.
Monday, December 26, 2005
Holiday spending and the economy
Well, it seems that preliminary speaking, the sales boost that retailers where expecting and hoping for the holiday season occurred...just not as high as they hoped. Today, the public went out to return items, take advantage of sales, and use those gift cards they all received today. However, despite these extra few days of moolah coming in, it doesn't seem it will have the overall boost they wanted, and probably by extension the Bush Administration wanted. I am sure right now they are going "We cut taxes!!!" that should have fixed everything, but of course it didn't.
I wish fixing this lagging economy was as simple as cutting taxes. It would be nice. Simple solutions for complicated problems are always a great thing. However, most people tend to realize that if four straight years of plan A isn't resulting in the expected growth, maybe its time for plan B. But why did plan A, cutting taxes for everyone, but especially the rich not work? Pretty simple really, its called greed for the rich and no change in disposable income for the rest.
Now don't get me wrong, just like they say in the movie Wall Street, "Greed is good." I do believe that. It can be a good thing. However, to much of anything, including greed, can be a bad thing. To much greed leads to Enron disasters. To much greed leads to the virtual monopolies that oil, cable, gas, etc currently enjoy. We call them cartels right now, but really they are monopolies for their is no real competition. The corner stone of the western economy is competition which doesn't exist in those and many other areas.
Greed is the reason why the free enterprise economy works and other economic theories don't. Communism assumes people are willing to sacrifice for the whole, basically that greed doesn't exist at all as part of the human condition. Of course it does and communism belief that they can end it is why it will always fail. Socialism assumes the same but tries to control the greed. Again, it can't be totally controlled. Trickle Down economics, a favorite of the republicans, also assumes greed is not a factor. They just assume someone will spend that dollar as it trickles down, it doesn't occur to them that someone would just keep it rather then spend it. Free enterprise though actually harnesses greed. Uses it to the wholes advantage. The problem of course is that it can't account for a level of greed so strong it damages the whole. Thus the need for government regulation.
The whole point of the tax cuts for the rich is the assumption that they use the money saves to re-invest in their companies and by extension their people. Its assumes that greed would not be a factor. They could use the tax savings by expanding, therefore hiring new people, therefore growing the economy cause they new people now have more money to spend. That's the theory anyway. The problem though is twofold. One, the tax cuts help the bottom line, guarantees that the higher ups get their bonuses, but doesn't nothing to encourage expanding or re-investing in a company. Profits do that not tax cuts. The problem then leads to how profits grow...which is people buying the product. However, currently no one has the high level of disposable income to buy the products that encourage a company to grow that then encourages the company to hire, give raises, etc which then leads to more disposal income which leads to...well you get the idea. In other words, why should the company use the tax cuts to expand when their is no demand from consumers to meet that demand? What is happening then is the rich get their bonuses and not much else. The cycle has been disrupted so the growth has been too.
Excess greed is part of the problem. Part of the disruption. Companies now treat their people as disposable. Benefits get cuts, raises and bonuses have all but disappeared. Job security? A myth your parents tell you about. All this leads to the one thing a powerful economy doesn't want...careful spending. People buy what they need rather then what they want. They don't buy the big ticket items in volume either such as a house, car, that plasma tv, boat, etc. Those are long term costs that can only be made if assume long term job security. These are also things that build and grow an economy.
Again the assumption is that the tax cuts will fix what ails the average person. Give them a little cut, they have more money, thus will buy more. The problem is once again an issue of motivation. With companies, they have no motivation to grow, no demand to do so. With the average person, the tax cuts are such they don't build a sense of security and they don't increase spending. Supposedly the average middle-class family has had a tax cut for the last four years. Have you noticed it on your paychecks? I know I haven't. I think its there but its not like I go "Yes! Five bucks off my taxes, I can buy that car!". Simply put the cut isn't enough to influence spending habits.
The solution for the economy then is not easy but the goal is. Figure out ways to increase the disposable income of the average American. Devise ways that encourage companies to invest in their existing workforce rather then investing it overseas. Encourage companies to expand the skills and knowledge of their works. Encourage job security. Do whatever it takes to so that people feel they have the security to buy and buy and buy. That grows the economy. That is why the bubble of the late 1990s was so successful and it can be found again.
Tax cuts might be apart of the answer but they are not the only answer. More solutions need to be tried. More needs to be done. This administration doesn't have the care or the concern to do that. Their idea of helping is to basically make bankruptcy an exercise in futility. To waste billions of dollars on interest to loans that pays the tax cuts for the rich. To ignore problems. This country has lost its world-power status. It can find it again. We just need leaders that understand that rather then kow tow to the damaging greed of companies, they need to harness the greed of its citizens.
I wish fixing this lagging economy was as simple as cutting taxes. It would be nice. Simple solutions for complicated problems are always a great thing. However, most people tend to realize that if four straight years of plan A isn't resulting in the expected growth, maybe its time for plan B. But why did plan A, cutting taxes for everyone, but especially the rich not work? Pretty simple really, its called greed for the rich and no change in disposable income for the rest.
Now don't get me wrong, just like they say in the movie Wall Street, "Greed is good." I do believe that. It can be a good thing. However, to much of anything, including greed, can be a bad thing. To much greed leads to Enron disasters. To much greed leads to the virtual monopolies that oil, cable, gas, etc currently enjoy. We call them cartels right now, but really they are monopolies for their is no real competition. The corner stone of the western economy is competition which doesn't exist in those and many other areas.
Greed is the reason why the free enterprise economy works and other economic theories don't. Communism assumes people are willing to sacrifice for the whole, basically that greed doesn't exist at all as part of the human condition. Of course it does and communism belief that they can end it is why it will always fail. Socialism assumes the same but tries to control the greed. Again, it can't be totally controlled. Trickle Down economics, a favorite of the republicans, also assumes greed is not a factor. They just assume someone will spend that dollar as it trickles down, it doesn't occur to them that someone would just keep it rather then spend it. Free enterprise though actually harnesses greed. Uses it to the wholes advantage. The problem of course is that it can't account for a level of greed so strong it damages the whole. Thus the need for government regulation.
The whole point of the tax cuts for the rich is the assumption that they use the money saves to re-invest in their companies and by extension their people. Its assumes that greed would not be a factor. They could use the tax savings by expanding, therefore hiring new people, therefore growing the economy cause they new people now have more money to spend. That's the theory anyway. The problem though is twofold. One, the tax cuts help the bottom line, guarantees that the higher ups get their bonuses, but doesn't nothing to encourage expanding or re-investing in a company. Profits do that not tax cuts. The problem then leads to how profits grow...which is people buying the product. However, currently no one has the high level of disposable income to buy the products that encourage a company to grow that then encourages the company to hire, give raises, etc which then leads to more disposal income which leads to...well you get the idea. In other words, why should the company use the tax cuts to expand when their is no demand from consumers to meet that demand? What is happening then is the rich get their bonuses and not much else. The cycle has been disrupted so the growth has been too.
Excess greed is part of the problem. Part of the disruption. Companies now treat their people as disposable. Benefits get cuts, raises and bonuses have all but disappeared. Job security? A myth your parents tell you about. All this leads to the one thing a powerful economy doesn't want...careful spending. People buy what they need rather then what they want. They don't buy the big ticket items in volume either such as a house, car, that plasma tv, boat, etc. Those are long term costs that can only be made if assume long term job security. These are also things that build and grow an economy.
Again the assumption is that the tax cuts will fix what ails the average person. Give them a little cut, they have more money, thus will buy more. The problem is once again an issue of motivation. With companies, they have no motivation to grow, no demand to do so. With the average person, the tax cuts are such they don't build a sense of security and they don't increase spending. Supposedly the average middle-class family has had a tax cut for the last four years. Have you noticed it on your paychecks? I know I haven't. I think its there but its not like I go "Yes! Five bucks off my taxes, I can buy that car!". Simply put the cut isn't enough to influence spending habits.
The solution for the economy then is not easy but the goal is. Figure out ways to increase the disposable income of the average American. Devise ways that encourage companies to invest in their existing workforce rather then investing it overseas. Encourage companies to expand the skills and knowledge of their works. Encourage job security. Do whatever it takes to so that people feel they have the security to buy and buy and buy. That grows the economy. That is why the bubble of the late 1990s was so successful and it can be found again.
Tax cuts might be apart of the answer but they are not the only answer. More solutions need to be tried. More needs to be done. This administration doesn't have the care or the concern to do that. Their idea of helping is to basically make bankruptcy an exercise in futility. To waste billions of dollars on interest to loans that pays the tax cuts for the rich. To ignore problems. This country has lost its world-power status. It can find it again. We just need leaders that understand that rather then kow tow to the damaging greed of companies, they need to harness the greed of its citizens.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Generation NEX
Remember the NES? Have some old games laying around but needing something slick to play em? Or know a place that has old famicon and NES games and need a device to play them on? Well it looks like IGN.com has found the toy for you. The Generation Nex console that plays both NES cartridges and Famicon cartridges. Also, it can be used with wireless controllers. Both the console and a set of wireless controllers cost $60 each making you wonder if its worth it. You can order em here is so desire.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Serenity on DVD!
Buy Serenity on DVD. If you don't have Firefly, buy that to. Those links are for Amazon to make it easy for ya. Just an FYI, the special features are average, but it does have a gag reel. The commentary track is informative and entertaining which is sadly rare in most commentary tracks. Its unfortunate they didn't have a seperate cast track however. Also over at Aint It Cool, there is a mini-interview with Whedon.
Ryu vs Scorpion
Fantastic flash movie of Street Fighter II Ryu vs Mortal Combat Scorpion. Despite the two different art styles, the creator did an excellent job of blending the STII character to the Mortal Combat world.
Friday, December 16, 2005
Patriot Act renewal halted
The Senate refused to reauthroize part of the Patriot Act. Amazingly enough, for once the Democrats took a stand the republicans listened. Even more importantly, it seems that the republicans listened because of actual concern what is good for the nation rather then party politics or just because. Its a refreshing change from the last five years and I hope it continues.
Congress shouldn't pass laws just cause, they should pass laws because it is good for nation. The Patriot Act isn't good for the nation. It never was. If saftey is all that matters above all else, then the Act is a good thing. This however is America.
Safety is not priority #1, freedom is. Or at least its supposed to be. The Patriot reduces hard fought freedom. Its does it in such as way is all it takes is a skillful leader to repeat the mistakes of McCarthism and the Hoover era. Only now they can do it legally.
Currently no one seems to be grossly abusing the power the act grants but like anything, its only a matter of time. No one though McCarthy could do what he did, but he found a way. No on thought Hoover could either, but again he found a way. Its only a metter of time. Absolute power does corrupt absolutly. Some can ignore the call for abuse, some rathionize it and only abuse it a little. What I fear is those that see the power it grants and absues it with every means that the Act allows and seriously damages this country.
Republicans may think thats not going to happen, our leaders are too good. Well, I just remind you that those evil Democrats don't like may eventually come back to power and here is this lovely Act waiting for them to abuse. If you fear abuse of leadership, of control, and the loss of Freedom, you should fear this Act. It shouldn't be extended, provisions shouldn't be made permanent. All aspects of that law should be reversed. If not for our freedoms now then for the future when someone, whether Democrat or Republican, comes along and abuses that law in ways we haven't dreamed of.
Congress shouldn't pass laws just cause, they should pass laws because it is good for nation. The Patriot Act isn't good for the nation. It never was. If saftey is all that matters above all else, then the Act is a good thing. This however is America.
Safety is not priority #1, freedom is. Or at least its supposed to be. The Patriot reduces hard fought freedom. Its does it in such as way is all it takes is a skillful leader to repeat the mistakes of McCarthism and the Hoover era. Only now they can do it legally.
Currently no one seems to be grossly abusing the power the act grants but like anything, its only a matter of time. No one though McCarthy could do what he did, but he found a way. No on thought Hoover could either, but again he found a way. Its only a metter of time. Absolute power does corrupt absolutly. Some can ignore the call for abuse, some rathionize it and only abuse it a little. What I fear is those that see the power it grants and absues it with every means that the Act allows and seriously damages this country.
Republicans may think thats not going to happen, our leaders are too good. Well, I just remind you that those evil Democrats don't like may eventually come back to power and here is this lovely Act waiting for them to abuse. If you fear abuse of leadership, of control, and the loss of Freedom, you should fear this Act. It shouldn't be extended, provisions shouldn't be made permanent. All aspects of that law should be reversed. If not for our freedoms now then for the future when someone, whether Democrat or Republican, comes along and abuses that law in ways we haven't dreamed of.
John Spencer of the West Wing dead
I know, another actor has died, BFD. I don't know John Spencer but I did like the show he is...was in. The West Wing. Great show that found its second wind this season. John Spencer played the character Leo McGarry who was the Barlett Chief of Staff, then Democratic VP candidate. Its a shame to see him go and condolences to his family. The show will not be the same without him.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
"War on Christmas"
Someone made this excellent observation "Who is stopping you from saying merry Christmas, and why are you listening?"
Isn't that the real question? Where is the who? So far all anyone has is the word of O'Reilly and Fox News for this supposed injustice. Mac is all pissed off over this but haven't heard yet any personal experience of his with the war. For someone so fervently pro-Christmas you think he would have a story to share of the horrors this evil war has had on him. All soldiers in a war usually have a story to tell. Unless of course the war is manufactured. Of course to admit it at this time for most would be to admit to an act of real stupidity which few are willing to do voluntarily. So the story shall live, grow, and only because of repeats will become a "fact" without any real facts to back it.
"The Colbert Report"'s "War on Humbuggery" did an excellent job making fun of those whole "controversy." He just talked about how no one is following the old Christmas traditions, pointing out how Christmas use to be truly celebrated at the turn of the century before commercialism took over. Watch the repeat today if get a chance.
I forgot that almost ALL of the Christmas traditions are not Christian origin but pagan and commercial origin. From the Christmas tree, to carols, pretty much everything, does not have a "sacred" origin despite what many may think. Even ole Santa Clause we all know was manufactured by Thomas Nast. He was the same cartoonist that created the iconic symbols for the Democrat and Republican parties.
The fact that many are discussing this issue so seriously is actually frightening in scope. Here we have that jackass insane bastard O'Reilly literally creating a controversy out of whole cloth...and the nation bought into it. He made it up! Absolutely made it up. He proves that Americans are so damned stupid that lies actually can become a "truth" by repetition. Day in and day out he "proof" is getting rejected and disproved. From so-called press releases to town supposedly banning the colors of the holiday, his overall thesis is disproved. Hell, take a walk anywhere and tell me that Christmas is being banned. Hell, those most defending it can't seem to even come up with proof it even exists beyond whatever new thing O'Reilly chooses to make up. People should just be ashamed of themselves about this whole thing. Fox News should be ashamed too but they stopped being about news a long time ago anyway.
Someone in college should seriously use the war on Christmas to show how an opinion becomes "truth" through repetition. Its a truly fascinating and new political phenomena that few recognize.
Isn't that the real question? Where is the who? So far all anyone has is the word of O'Reilly and Fox News for this supposed injustice. Mac is all pissed off over this but haven't heard yet any personal experience of his with the war. For someone so fervently pro-Christmas you think he would have a story to share of the horrors this evil war has had on him. All soldiers in a war usually have a story to tell. Unless of course the war is manufactured. Of course to admit it at this time for most would be to admit to an act of real stupidity which few are willing to do voluntarily. So the story shall live, grow, and only because of repeats will become a "fact" without any real facts to back it.
"The Colbert Report"'s "War on Humbuggery" did an excellent job making fun of those whole "controversy." He just talked about how no one is following the old Christmas traditions, pointing out how Christmas use to be truly celebrated at the turn of the century before commercialism took over. Watch the repeat today if get a chance.
I forgot that almost ALL of the Christmas traditions are not Christian origin but pagan and commercial origin. From the Christmas tree, to carols, pretty much everything, does not have a "sacred" origin despite what many may think. Even ole Santa Clause we all know was manufactured by Thomas Nast. He was the same cartoonist that created the iconic symbols for the Democrat and Republican parties.
The fact that many are discussing this issue so seriously is actually frightening in scope. Here we have that jackass insane bastard O'Reilly literally creating a controversy out of whole cloth...and the nation bought into it. He made it up! Absolutely made it up. He proves that Americans are so damned stupid that lies actually can become a "truth" by repetition. Day in and day out he "proof" is getting rejected and disproved. From so-called press releases to town supposedly banning the colors of the holiday, his overall thesis is disproved. Hell, take a walk anywhere and tell me that Christmas is being banned. Hell, those most defending it can't seem to even come up with proof it even exists beyond whatever new thing O'Reilly chooses to make up. People should just be ashamed of themselves about this whole thing. Fox News should be ashamed too but they stopped being about news a long time ago anyway.
Someone in college should seriously use the war on Christmas to show how an opinion becomes "truth" through repetition. Its a truly fascinating and new political phenomena that few recognize.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Richard Pryor Dead
Richard Pryor has died from a heart attack. When I was growing up, he was one of my favorite comedians. Most of his movies where hilarious but for whatever reason Brewster's Millions is the one I liked most. The comedy world has lost a legend.
CNN report
CNN report
Friday, December 02, 2005
Georgia embarrassment Continues...CBLDF wins pretrial motion
CBLDF scored a major victory in the Rome Georgia case against Comicbook retailer Gordon Lee with the dimissal of 4 of the 7 counts two of which where the felony counts.
The case is a major waste of tax payer money not only for the state but for the Rome citizens. IF they had any knowledge of the case they would make their displeasure known during the next election cycle.
Read more here with a good summation of events. Rome Georgia is a known Bible Belt kind of town so events are not suprising even if disappointing but its nice to see that the judge is doing is job properly even though realistically the whole case should have been tossed.
The case is a major waste of tax payer money not only for the state but for the Rome citizens. IF they had any knowledge of the case they would make their displeasure known during the next election cycle.
Read more here with a good summation of events. Rome Georgia is a known Bible Belt kind of town so events are not suprising even if disappointing but its nice to see that the judge is doing is job properly even though realistically the whole case should have been tossed.
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