Luke 2 contains the Biblical narrative of the birth of Christ which is most commonly read at Christmas. At some point this Christmas, Christians would do well to re-read this passage and meditate on its meaning. A full exegesis of those fifty two verses would be too long for a blog post, however we can begin to examine one verse in particular, in this short space.
Luke 2:14 (ESV) - "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!"
This verse is about the vertical relationship between God and man. Not the horizontal relationship between men as it is often misquoted as "peace on earth, goodwill towards men".
The angels are declaring the birth of a Savior, born so God can reconcile men to himself. The peace is among those that God is pleased with. Those that have been reconciled to Him through their acceptance of His Son as Lord and Savior in their lives.
By all means, have peace among your fellow men. However, please insure that you are among those with whom God is pleased. If you have not asked Christ into your life as Lord and Savior, please consider doing so this Christmas. It will be a gift you accept with eternal significance.
Merry Christmas!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
This Wasn't On The List
There are a lot of things to get done at Christmas. Most of them are self imposed. Tasks such as helping my wife decorate the house for Christmas, buying gifts for immediate family and serving in Christmas ministry opportunities are all typical examples. To make sure they all get done, putting things in a list works well at our house.
Earlier today I completed the purchase of something that wasn't on any of those lists, prior to the start of this week. The purchase involved a new (rebuilt actually) one of these:
For those that may not recognize it, this is a Honda transmission. Not exactly what most people think of first in terms of giving and receiving at Christmas time, but there it is. In our case, it was exactly what we needed after our van started having major problems shifting out of second gear.
Since we bought the van, all our service has been done at Metro Honda in Union county. They've always seemed a cut above the typical dealer service experience, but until now we've not needed anything other than routine maintenance. This was a lot bigger. Long story short, they earned our trust and gave us great service. We'll definitely continue going there, hopefully for a lot smaller items, in the future.
There's probably a larger set of thoughts here on trust, planning, control and flexibility but those will be an exercise left to the reader. Right now, I'm just happy to have the van back and be able to get back to things on the original list!
Earlier today I completed the purchase of something that wasn't on any of those lists, prior to the start of this week. The purchase involved a new (rebuilt actually) one of these:
For those that may not recognize it, this is a Honda transmission. Not exactly what most people think of first in terms of giving and receiving at Christmas time, but there it is. In our case, it was exactly what we needed after our van started having major problems shifting out of second gear.
Since we bought the van, all our service has been done at Metro Honda in Union county. They've always seemed a cut above the typical dealer service experience, but until now we've not needed anything other than routine maintenance. This was a lot bigger. Long story short, they earned our trust and gave us great service. We'll definitely continue going there, hopefully for a lot smaller items, in the future.
There's probably a larger set of thoughts here on trust, planning, control and flexibility but those will be an exercise left to the reader. Right now, I'm just happy to have the van back and be able to get back to things on the original list!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Not While Driving
I stumbled across a product that I didn't even know existed earlier this evening - a "car desk". The concept seems valid for people who work out of their vehicles. However the implementation as shown below is what got me thinking:
In a society where companies are sued for serving hot drinks, it just seems like a matter of time before someone tries to drive with their car desk still in place. Now in fairness, the company marketing the product does provide the following warning on it's web site: For safety reasons, never use this product while driving. What business model makes the risk generated by this product viable? Not one I'd choose to operate.
The standard disclaimer definitely applies here: I have no association with this company or its products.
In a society where companies are sued for serving hot drinks, it just seems like a matter of time before someone tries to drive with their car desk still in place. Now in fairness, the company marketing the product does provide the following warning on it's web site: For safety reasons, never use this product while driving. What business model makes the risk generated by this product viable? Not one I'd choose to operate.
The standard disclaimer definitely applies here: I have no association with this company or its products.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
How Much Is Enough?
The EPA has declared carbon dioxide as a pollutant. Carbon dioxide?!!! Before examining the politics and science behind this, lets set some perspective through a simple question: Is this a good or a bad thing? Seriously. Some may state that it is really a complex question, with too many factors to consider.
One test I like to apply in situations where a simple question isn't so easy to answer, is to "test it at the extreme". Often there is clarity in extrapolating
the action in question to a larger scale. So for example, if carbon dioxide is a pollutant, pollutants are bad and we want to eliminate all of them - what happens if we eliminate all the carbon dioxide?
Carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring substance on the Earth. It is required for all plant life. If it is completely eliminated, all plants die. If all plants die, no more oxygen is produced and we die. Sounds like a bad thing to me.
Not so fast you say? Its not that simple? Just reduce it by some amount? To all those questions, I would respond - how much is enough?
This is not a science question. This is a political question that will claim science as its justification. We will now be faced with the question of who do we trust to set that amount? The answer will drive governmental fines, penalties and fees (taxes). Fairness and justice will be tossed around as ideals not to be opposed, upon fear of character assassination. The funds collected will be redistributed to those "in need".
The basis of the original question has now changed from CO2 to dollars.
Domestically, the EPA bureaucrats, government funded scientists and elected politicians will now attempt to create new regulations to transfer funds from the private sector to the government. On the global level, the Copenhagen Climate conference is attempting to function as a world government and transfer wealth, using a similar rationale.
It might again be a good time to ask - how much is enough?
One test I like to apply in situations where a simple question isn't so easy to answer, is to "test it at the extreme". Often there is clarity in extrapolating
the action in question to a larger scale. So for example, if carbon dioxide is a pollutant, pollutants are bad and we want to eliminate all of them - what happens if we eliminate all the carbon dioxide?Carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring substance on the Earth. It is required for all plant life. If it is completely eliminated, all plants die. If all plants die, no more oxygen is produced and we die. Sounds like a bad thing to me.
Not so fast you say? Its not that simple? Just reduce it by some amount? To all those questions, I would respond - how much is enough?
This is not a science question. This is a political question that will claim science as its justification. We will now be faced with the question of who do we trust to set that amount? The answer will drive governmental fines, penalties and fees (taxes). Fairness and justice will be tossed around as ideals not to be opposed, upon fear of character assassination. The funds collected will be redistributed to those "in need".
The basis of the original question has now changed from CO2 to dollars.
Domestically, the EPA bureaucrats, government funded scientists and elected politicians will now attempt to create new regulations to transfer funds from the private sector to the government. On the global level, the Copenhagen Climate conference is attempting to function as a world government and transfer wealth, using a similar rationale.
It might again be a good time to ask - how much is enough?
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Rights and Requirements
A question struck me as I heard a radio advertisement earlier today. The ad was for the taxpayer funded give away, which started in August 2008, of the SafeLink cell phones to qualifying citizens residents.
The question that came to mind was - has the government now decided that owning a cell phone is a right and that buying health insurance is a requirement?
Maybe because the reality is that one is about vote buying and the other is about expanding the role of government in daily life. Then again, in different ways, maybe they're really the same thing.
The question that came to mind was - has the government now decided that owning a cell phone is a right and that buying health insurance is a requirement?
Maybe because the reality is that one is about vote buying and the other is about expanding the role of government in daily life. Then again, in different ways, maybe they're really the same thing.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Dodging A Bullet...Or Two Trains
Regardless of what The Matrix would have us believe, people cannot dodge bullets. However, I have been personally told by combat veterans that some soldiers come to believe they can dodge bullets because they hear them go by, after the bullet has already passed.
Maybe the rail inspector in the video has really good hearing, because thankfully he hears the trains and dodges them before they pass!
Maybe the rail inspector in the video has really good hearing, because thankfully he hears the trains and dodges them before they pass!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
A BBQ Tradition
A sense of tradition connects people and generations. Good food always brings people together. Combine the two and it makes for a good time.
Unionville elementary school held its 60th annual BBQ yesterday. They've been running this BBQ annually since 1949. The BBQ was good and the proceeds went to benefit the children.
It was a beautiful day for a noon drive into the country. Working farms, livestock, country ponds - it all couldn't have been more scenic. A reminder of many of the things that make America great, including hard work and a sense of community.
Its great living in a small town, and even better to get out into the real country every now and then. This event is over, but keep looking - its BBQ season - there'll be more!
Unionville elementary school held its 60th annual BBQ yesterday. They've been running this BBQ annually since 1949. The BBQ was good and the proceeds went to benefit the children.
It was a beautiful day for a noon drive into the country. Working farms, livestock, country ponds - it all couldn't have been more scenic. A reminder of many of the things that make America great, including hard work and a sense of community.
Its great living in a small town, and even better to get out into the real country every now and then. This event is over, but keep looking - its BBQ season - there'll be more!
Friday, November 6, 2009
Higher Taxes Mean More Savings?
The title of this post reflects the thought I had when reading the Charlotte Observer's article in today's paper, entitled: Higher NC sales tax means larger break for holiday as shown below:
So does this imply that we should somehow be thankful that we're being allowed to keep more of our own money, rather than paying it in tribute to Rome? Only if we buy what the government wants us to, when they want us to of course.
On a completely different level, it is always interesting that politicians realize real stimulus involves cutting taxes, rather than giving money (obtained through taxes) away. They ought to try it for longer than just one weekend.
So does this imply that we should somehow be thankful that we're being allowed to keep more of our own money, rather than paying it in tribute to Rome? Only if we buy what the government wants us to, when they want us to of course.
On a completely different level, it is always interesting that politicians realize real stimulus involves cutting taxes, rather than giving money (obtained through taxes) away. They ought to try it for longer than just one weekend.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Does Motive Trump Truth?
In catching up on the weekend news, something caught my attention in a article on the reactions to an insurance industry health care report. In the second paragraph, Linda Douglass, communications director for the President's Office of Health Reform is referred as having said: (italics added)
This infers that the timing of the report is sufficient grounds for it's dismissal. Certainly there is political strategy in some cases which dictates the timing of releases. The spokesman for this study simply stated that it was only finalized over the weekend. Which is the reason in this case isn't really important. The illogical progression of thought, simply presented as accepted wisdom, is important. A head on attack of the facts presented in a counter proposal or a critical analysis would be more in order.
The goal of any position paper is to persuade its intended audience. All sides in a debate have that as the common goal. So if the stated or even perceived motive of a position statement does not align with the preset agenda of its recipients, is it fair to summarily dismiss it? This makesmind reading guessing the motive more important than understanding the content.
Maybe that is really the political insight into all of this. Particulary if members of Congress regularly vote on bills that don't exist yet.
Does motive trump truth? Just asking...
...that the timing of the study, released just hours before the Senate Finance Committee is set to vote on its bill, raises questions about its legitimacy.
This infers that the timing of the report is sufficient grounds for it's dismissal. Certainly there is political strategy in some cases which dictates the timing of releases. The spokesman for this study simply stated that it was only finalized over the weekend. Which is the reason in this case isn't really important. The illogical progression of thought, simply presented as accepted wisdom, is important. A head on attack of the facts presented in a counter proposal or a critical analysis would be more in order.
The goal of any position paper is to persuade its intended audience. All sides in a debate have that as the common goal. So if the stated or even perceived motive of a position statement does not align with the preset agenda of its recipients, is it fair to summarily dismiss it? This makes
Maybe that is really the political insight into all of this. Particulary if members of Congress regularly vote on bills that don't exist yet.
Does motive trump truth? Just asking...
Friday, September 18, 2009
A Distinction Without A Difference
How can we hear so often that there will be no tax increases, but trillions of dollars in new entitlements and future obligations (aka debt) are being proposed? How will it all be paid for? Are politicians lying? Or is this simply a massively expensive word game, about to be played well into the future of every tax paying citizen of this country?
In the world of government taxation, there are multiple different categories of tax deductions, tax exemptions, tax preferences, tax benefits, tax credits and more. Quickly it can become overwhelming, even confusing for the average citizen. Enough so that distinctions can be made without actually honoring the original meaning.
Here is just a partial list of the ways that regular taxes can be stated as not increasing, but the total tax bill being paid does:
So in politics it may be considered truthful to say one thing and then subvert that statement with indirect, conflicting actions. Possibly the politicians themselves have been duped by their subculture to believe in a different form of honesty (if it can be called that). Maybe what isn't said is just as, if not more important.
Determining what the words in a political speech mean can be difficult. Citizens must keep themselves informed and diligent concerning issues affecting the nation. If we don't, we risk electing politicians who are being honest in a dishonest way.
Now how our European allies will reconcile the US dropping support for the missile defense shield after pledging to support it "As long as the threat from Iran persists" given recent knowledge that Iran is "...on the way to developing a missile system able to carry an atomic warhead..." might require a different analysis.
Regardless, words have meaning. When they're coming from people who have the power to affect entire nations for generations to come, people everywhere need to listen and remember them.
In the world of government taxation, there are multiple different categories of tax deductions, tax exemptions, tax preferences, tax benefits, tax credits and more. Quickly it can become overwhelming, even confusing for the average citizen. Enough so that distinctions can be made without actually honoring the original meaning.
Here is just a partial list of the ways that regular taxes can be stated as not increasing, but the total tax bill being paid does:
- Installing automatic increments based on Consumer Price Index (CPI)
- Failing to renew tax credits
- Repealing of tax breaks and incentives
- Allowing of automatic tax increases to occur
- Adjusting tax brackets (bracket creep)
- Calling the increase temporary
- Indexing to something other than inflation (indexing higher)
- Enacting surtaxes with special conditions
- Increasing the sources (of income) subject to taxation
- Decreasing Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) exemptions (overrides regular tax rates and breaks)
- Doubling taxation of businesses and individuals (via dividends and interest)
- ...
So in politics it may be considered truthful to say one thing and then subvert that statement with indirect, conflicting actions. Possibly the politicians themselves have been duped by their subculture to believe in a different form of honesty (if it can be called that). Maybe what isn't said is just as, if not more important.
Determining what the words in a political speech mean can be difficult. Citizens must keep themselves informed and diligent concerning issues affecting the nation. If we don't, we risk electing politicians who are being honest in a dishonest way.
Now how our European allies will reconcile the US dropping support for the missile defense shield after pledging to support it "As long as the threat from Iran persists" given recent knowledge that Iran is "...on the way to developing a missile system able to carry an atomic warhead..." might require a different analysis.
Regardless, words have meaning. When they're coming from people who have the power to affect entire nations for generations to come, people everywhere need to listen and remember them.
Friday, September 11, 2009
For Hitchcock Fans
Fans of Alfred Hitchcock movies and cat lovers may appreciate this very short video of a "cat elevator":
True Hitchcock fans will have made the connection to the scenes in Rear Window when the dog is lowered down to the courtyard, where it ultimately meets its demise - but not due to the elevator basket!
This always seemed amazing that a dog could be trained to overcome their fear of heights in an unstable basket. But a cat?!!! That's beyond amazing. Maybe that's just what you do as a pet owner in a crowded urban environment.
Hmmm, maybe that herding cats video was real after all...
True Hitchcock fans will have made the connection to the scenes in Rear Window when the dog is lowered down to the courtyard, where it ultimately meets its demise - but not due to the elevator basket!
This always seemed amazing that a dog could be trained to overcome their fear of heights in an unstable basket. But a cat?!!! That's beyond amazing. Maybe that's just what you do as a pet owner in a crowded urban environment.
Hmmm, maybe that herding cats video was real after all...
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Retroactive Tax Increases
Those not concerned about paying income tax or whose sole interest is in getting an income tax "refund" (loaning the government part of their earnings interest free for a year) probably should skip this post. Others, particularly those that live in North Carolina, may be interested to learn that the state just approved a retroactive income tax increase last month. Yes, retroactive.
It is identified as a "surtax". The relevant section of Senate Bill 202 is 27A.1(a) and reads as follows (emphasis added):
Note that this bill was signed into law on August 7, 2009 (scroll to the bottom of the list of actions). Retroactive over seven prior months of tax planning, now invalidated. Governor Perdue was sworn into office on January 10, 2009 (scroll to the bottom of the media releases). Retroactive nine days earlier than even the Governor's taking of office.
The surtax affects corporations and what the press would term "high income" individuals. Regardless of if this particular action has immediate personal application or not, every taxpayer should consider what principle is being demonstrated by issuing retroactive tax increases. Here are just two.
FWIW - this is not an indictment of Governor Perdue or any political party. It is however of politicians and politics in general. It is an amazing display of the politics of power and money, this time at the state level. Be careful of the change you vote for. It can change the future - and the past.
It is identified as a "surtax". The relevant section of Senate Bill 202 is 27A.1(a) and reads as follows (emphasis added):
PART XXVIIA. TAX CHANGES
CORPORATE AND INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX SURTAX
SECTION 27A.1.(a) Part 1 of Article 4 of Chapter 105 of the General Statutes is amended by adding a new section to read:
"§ 105-130.3B. Income tax surtax.
(a) Surtax. – An income tax surtax is imposed on a taxpayer equal to three percent (3%) of the tax payable by the taxpayer under G.S. 105-130.3 for the taxable year. This tax is in addition to the tax imposed by G.S. 105-130.3 and is due at the time prescribed in
G.S. 105-130.17 for filing a corporate income tax return.
(b) Sunset. – This section expires for taxable years
Note that this bill was signed into law on August 7, 2009 (scroll to the bottom of the list of actions). Retroactive over seven prior months of tax planning, now invalidated. Governor Perdue was sworn into office on January 10, 2009 (scroll to the bottom of the media releases). Retroactive nine days earlier than even the Governor's taking of office.
The surtax affects corporations and what the press would term "high income" individuals. Regardless of if this particular action has immediate personal application or not, every taxpayer should consider what principle is being demonstrated by issuing retroactive tax increases. Here are just two.
- Is tax planning is useless? Any scheduled planning, giving or investing based on the tax rates at the start of the year are certainly now reduced in effectiveness. Businesses planning investments in the state will surely take this into consideration in the future.
- What guidelines exist, or should exist, regarding enactment of retroactive laws? The paying of taxes has a clean yearly boundary due to the payment cycle. If the discussion was over issuance of licenses or permits what would the boundaries be?
FWIW - this is not an indictment of Governor Perdue or any political party. It is however of politicians and politics in general. It is an amazing display of the politics of power and money, this time at the state level. Be careful of the change you vote for. It can change the future - and the past.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Drum Corp Experts
Alright, so a little editorial license was used in spanning the "expert" title between this and the last post. Watch the video below and you may agree it was justified.
The Top Secret Drum Corps have taken the precision and technical skill required in competition to the highest level. Watching someone who has perfected their craft to this degree is almost always worth watching.
The video quality suffers in the high level shots but is worth staying with for the ground level footage. Like most of these routines, it builds in intensity as it progresses - stay with it!
Even if you're not a drum corp aficionado, you can't help but appreciate the level of talent, discipline and expertise this team has developed.
The caption with the original video states that they practiced almost every day for a year on this routine. How many people are that dedicated to something they say that they believe in?
The Top Secret Drum Corps have taken the precision and technical skill required in competition to the highest level. Watching someone who has perfected their craft to this degree is almost always worth watching.
The video quality suffers in the high level shots but is worth staying with for the ground level footage. Like most of these routines, it builds in intensity as it progresses - stay with it!
Even if you're not a drum corp aficionado, you can't help but appreciate the level of talent, discipline and expertise this team has developed.
The caption with the original video states that they practiced almost every day for a year on this routine. How many people are that dedicated to something they say that they believe in?
Monday, August 24, 2009
The Local Computer Expert
Having a day job that involves anything above simply using computers automatically seems to qualify many people for the role of "computer expert" in their family and circle of friends. That confidence may at times be misplaced as the range of potential software and hardware issues now is so wide, that no one person can keep up with all support methods anymore. So enters Google and the age of instant expertise.
The web comic xkcd captures this well in their Tech Support Cheat Sheet.
A friend sent it to me and it is funny. Some of the other content on the xkcd site ranges from bizarre to risque, but this one seems spot on. However, the longer I look at the flowchart the more real it becomes. Maybe that's what makes it really funny.
In any event, print it out and tape it near your screen - it just might work!
The web comic xkcd captures this well in their Tech Support Cheat Sheet.
A friend sent it to me and it is funny. Some of the other content on the xkcd site ranges from bizarre to risque, but this one seems spot on. However, the longer I look at the flowchart the more real it becomes. Maybe that's what makes it really funny.
In any event, print it out and tape it near your screen - it just might work!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
A Lot Can Kill You
The video below on "How Not To Wash Your Car" immediately made me think of the lines in the movie Jumangi:
You might not want to let your kids watch this though...they'll never stand under the tipping buckets at the local water park again!
Sarah Whittle: Well, a little rain never hurt anybody!
Alan Parrish: Yeah, but a lot can kill you! Come on!
You might not want to let your kids watch this though...they'll never stand under the tipping buckets at the local water park again!
Friday, July 31, 2009
Self Publishing
This post is somewhat a follow-up to the Unplanned Obsolescence one from about a week ago. In that time, I think I've got a handle on how to use some of the new self publishing tools. As before, this isn't a guide for anyone else, but simply what works for me.
The one that confounded me the most at the start - Twitter - may turn out to be one of the most useful day-to-day. A personal Twitter account seems well suited for sharing a quick thought that really isn't worthy of a full blog post or for one that I don't have time to write. Also, its original purpose of answering the question of "what are you doing" type status updates for anyone who cares to know, does work well.
The rich media content and access control obviously are part of what makes Facebook successful. Good for sharing family photos and updates that have no value in the public space. Many seem to use it for status updates also. The eureka moment for me was when I found out that Twitter and Facebook could be linked together with a Facebook application. Short thoughts and status updates now only need to be posted in one place. Longer family and friend related posts still go directly into Facebook itself. After reading today's paper, I have to say that I didn't have anything really in mind when I chose my profile picture though.
I don't think there is anything new to expound on related to the virtues or uses of blogging. However, just like using a RSS reader to follow a blog, there are new options for potential readers using Twitter. Using TwitterFeed as an intermediate mechanism, blog posts can also be followed via Twitter.
I'm still wary of oversharing, privacy risks, security and other elements of these mediums. Also, the parodys abound, particulary about Twitter. At times its easy to imagine that I'm just speaking into cyberspace, but if you've read this far - maybe not!
The one that confounded me the most at the start - Twitter - may turn out to be one of the most useful day-to-day. A personal Twitter account seems well suited for sharing a quick thought that really isn't worthy of a full blog post or for one that I don't have time to write. Also, its original purpose of answering the question of "what are you doing" type status updates for anyone who cares to know, does work well.
The rich media content and access control obviously are part of what makes Facebook successful. Good for sharing family photos and updates that have no value in the public space. Many seem to use it for status updates also. The eureka moment for me was when I found out that Twitter and Facebook could be linked together with a Facebook application. Short thoughts and status updates now only need to be posted in one place. Longer family and friend related posts still go directly into Facebook itself. After reading today's paper, I have to say that I didn't have anything really in mind when I chose my profile picture though.
I don't think there is anything new to expound on related to the virtues or uses of blogging. However, just like using a RSS reader to follow a blog, there are new options for potential readers using Twitter. Using TwitterFeed as an intermediate mechanism, blog posts can also be followed via Twitter.
I'm still wary of oversharing, privacy risks, security and other elements of these mediums. Also, the parodys abound, particulary about Twitter. At times its easy to imagine that I'm just speaking into cyberspace, but if you've read this far - maybe not!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Values and Freedoms
Christians are still being martyred for their faith. North Korea provides the latest example in the execution of a woman last month, for distributing Bibles. Why don't Western cultures based on Christian values and freedoms stand up against these atrocities? Maybe they're too busy with art shows.
These stories made the mainstream media, but sadly there are many more.
Ideas have consequences. When will we start making choices accordingly?
These stories made the mainstream media, but sadly there are many more.
Ideas have consequences. When will we start making choices accordingly?
Friday, July 24, 2009
Positively Contagious
WBTV in Charlotte has a "Good News" section during their evening broadcast, which is a welcome positive note in a market where news has predominantly become little more than a crime report. As an example, they recently they highlighted a kindergarten class that had a week of "kindness training" and how it can be contagious.
Today they featured a pair of Purdue University students who are known as the Compliment Guys. The are touring the East coast courtesy of Kodak on a Brightside Tour. To get a feel for what they're doing, there is video of them in action. The compliments aren't especially deep or insightful, but all seem to produce a positive uplifting response.
When I saw this I was reminded of the short film "Validation" (embedded below) that I watched last fall. It took me a few minutes to find and at over 16 minutes it'll take you a few minutes to watch, but I can almost guarantee the smile on your face if you do.
If you can mean it, trying telling someone they are amazing. You just might get a smile in return.
Accentuate the positive!
Today they featured a pair of Purdue University students who are known as the Compliment Guys. The are touring the East coast courtesy of Kodak on a Brightside Tour. To get a feel for what they're doing, there is video of them in action. The compliments aren't especially deep or insightful, but all seem to produce a positive uplifting response.
When I saw this I was reminded of the short film "Validation" (embedded below) that I watched last fall. It took me a few minutes to find and at over 16 minutes it'll take you a few minutes to watch, but I can almost guarantee the smile on your face if you do.
If you can mean it, trying telling someone they are amazing. You just might get a smile in return.
Accentuate the positive!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Unplanned Obsolescence
Is email becoming obsolete? Yet another tech article raised the issue recently an
d this time it struck a chord with me, as I've been trying to position email, blogs, Facebook and Twitter in my mind. One of my friends is is always on the cutting edge of web trends and has been prodding me to get connected via each. Well, I finally did and now am trying to figure out what to do with them. I've now staked a claim to my own name in multiple parts of cyberspace, but what's next?
This post isn't intended to be a definitive guide to any of these mediums, but more of a notepad as I (publicly) sort out my thoughts. It may have some value to others as they do the same, or explain to those who have tried to communicate with me via various methods why they haven't received instantaneous responses. If neither of those is of interest to you, like any post, feel free to stop reading and move on at any time. OK, now you've been warned!
Email of course is the no brainer of the bunch. Maybe because its what I understand best, but nothing seems to be better at one-to-one asynchronous communications of non trivial size or substance, for either personal or professional communication. It does have its limitations such as threading long conversations.
Blogging is good at one-to-many asynchronous communication. I originally started using it as a replacement for the "group emails" that I might occasionally have sent out on various topics. The RSS syndication and ability to subscribe (or not) provides a level of control for the reader. As a public medium, I'm always careful not to "over share", particularly in respecting the privacy of my family members.
Facebook's semi-public implementation of many-to-many conversation, both asynchronous, threaded and random - seemingly all at once - hasn't quite "clicked" for me yet. It has elements of blogging, with it's own feed reader in the form of a Wall and the ability to comment on posts. Facebook as a whole seems to invite a lot of "over sharing" on personal topics and relationships, which is probably what makes it addictive for many people.
Twitter I'm the most lost on. It seems to be some cross of IM and SMS messaging, but (mostly) sent out into a public void. I know it has ways to tag tweets for certain users, but it seems to be a really restrictive melding of Facebook and blogging.
The bottom line that while there may be overlap and crossover between the various communications channels, there is no right or wrong answer. Just choices and preferences. The irony is that all of them have ways to be alerted via email when one is updated. That tells me email probably won't be obsolete any time soon. So don't be surprised if that's how I continue to respond!
d this time it struck a chord with me, as I've been trying to position email, blogs, Facebook and Twitter in my mind. One of my friends is is always on the cutting edge of web trends and has been prodding me to get connected via each. Well, I finally did and now am trying to figure out what to do with them. I've now staked a claim to my own name in multiple parts of cyberspace, but what's next?This post isn't intended to be a definitive guide to any of these mediums, but more of a notepad as I (publicly) sort out my thoughts. It may have some value to others as they do the same, or explain to those who have tried to communicate with me via various methods why they haven't received instantaneous responses. If neither of those is of interest to you, like any post, feel free to stop reading and move on at any time. OK, now you've been warned!
Email of course is the no brainer of the bunch. Maybe because its what I understand best, but nothing seems to be better at one-to-one asynchronous communications of non trivial size or substance, for either personal or professional communication. It does have its limitations such as threading long conversations.
Blogging is good at one-to-many asynchronous communication. I originally started using it as a replacement for the "group emails" that I might occasionally have sent out on various topics. The RSS syndication and ability to subscribe (or not) provides a level of control for the reader. As a public medium, I'm always careful not to "over share", particularly in respecting the privacy of my family members.
Facebook's semi-public implementation of many-to-many conversation, both asynchronous, threaded and random - seemingly all at once - hasn't quite "clicked" for me yet. It has elements of blogging, with it's own feed reader in the form of a Wall and the ability to comment on posts. Facebook as a whole seems to invite a lot of "over sharing" on personal topics and relationships, which is probably what makes it addictive for many people.
Twitter I'm the most lost on. It seems to be some cross of IM and SMS messaging, but (mostly) sent out into a public void. I know it has ways to tag tweets for certain users, but it seems to be a really restrictive melding of Facebook and blogging.
The bottom line that while there may be overlap and crossover between the various communications channels, there is no right or wrong answer. Just choices and preferences. The irony is that all of them have ways to be alerted via email when one is updated. That tells me email probably won't be obsolete any time soon. So don't be surprised if that's how I continue to respond!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Making It Right
We recently celebrated my birthday in a way that has become a tradition thanks to my wonderful and understanding wife. This celebration however, involved a couple of twists that made it even better than expected. The tradition is in searching out a new barbeque restaurant that we've never eaten at before (or maybe just not in quite a while). My wife plans these culinary outings as a surprise and some do require a bit of planning - and driving.
Last weekend the tradition didn't involve too much driving, only up to Concord, NC. The
restaurant selected this time was R&R Bar-B-Que, at 755 Pitts School Rd NW. There were some good reviews on the net about it and everything on the R&R web site looked like it was the real deal.
So up to Concord we went and arrived after the dinner rush on Saturday. When we arrived there was a good sized crowd, noisy but relaxed. It looked like we'd made a great choice. There was some confusion when we first ordered, about the type of bbq that R&R specialized in and some other things that seemed a little out of place. Nothing to really be concerned about but we began to wonder if they were as serious about bbq as we'd been led to believe.
To make a long story short - at this point, we asked to speak to a manager. Instead we ended up talking to one of the co-owners - Rob Elmore. Even though there was still a good crowd in the restaurant, he took his time with us explaining the bbq he specialized in (Eastern Carolina) and its preparation at R&R (in a state-of-the-art, spotless operation). We even swapped a host of other stories related to experiencing local food specialties while traveling.
They are serious about barbeque at R&R. Rob's personal involvement to make things right for two guests he'd never met before really spoke volumes. When the plates of food arrived, we can attest to the fact that the food is made right too - pulled pork shoulder, lean but not dry, lightly spiced - exactly what we came looking for. The ribs were probably the best either of us can remember having, a real unexpected find. The chicken, bbq slaw and beans were great along with everything else.
I'll stop short of making this a full restaurant review (which I'm not formally trained to do anyway!). The real point is that it was great to meet someone who was good at what they do and enjoyed it. That comes through loud and clear.
Anyway, give R&R a try - you won't be sorry. And remember, barbeque is not a verb!
Last weekend the tradition didn't involve too much driving, only up to Concord, NC. The
restaurant selected this time was R&R Bar-B-Que, at 755 Pitts School Rd NW. There were some good reviews on the net about it and everything on the R&R web site looked like it was the real deal.So up to Concord we went and arrived after the dinner rush on Saturday. When we arrived there was a good sized crowd, noisy but relaxed. It looked like we'd made a great choice. There was some confusion when we first ordered, about the type of bbq that R&R specialized in and some other things that seemed a little out of place. Nothing to really be concerned about but we began to wonder if they were as serious about bbq as we'd been led to believe.
To make a long story short - at this point, we asked to speak to a manager. Instead we ended up talking to one of the co-owners - Rob Elmore. Even though there was still a good crowd in the restaurant, he took his time with us explaining the bbq he specialized in (Eastern Carolina) and its preparation at R&R (in a state-of-the-art, spotless operation). We even swapped a host of other stories related to experiencing local food specialties while traveling.
They are serious about barbeque at R&R. Rob's personal involvement to make things right for two guests he'd never met before really spoke volumes. When the plates of food arrived, we can attest to the fact that the food is made right too - pulled pork shoulder, lean but not dry, lightly spiced - exactly what we came looking for. The ribs were probably the best either of us can remember having, a real unexpected find. The chicken, bbq slaw and beans were great along with everything else.
I'll stop short of making this a full restaurant review (which I'm not formally trained to do anyway!). The real point is that it was great to meet someone who was good at what they do and enjoyed it. That comes through loud and clear.
Anyway, give R&R a try - you won't be sorry. And remember, barbeque is not a verb!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Worldview Matters
The Washington Post has an article Three Minutes to Fort Totten which describes the actions of four individuals who were on the Metro train 112, car 1079 which crashed last month.
On the surface it is a great human interest story. It portrays four people who gave of themselves and helped others while overcoming fear and obstacles in the midst of a tragedy. Its the kind of thing that you don't see much of, but when you do, its inspiring.
I find it interesting that two of the persons who stayed behind to help were US military personnel, one was directly identified as a Christian. I don't think that was a random correlation. As BreakPoint points out when referring to this same incident, the military is one of the last places in America where men and women are taught to put others first. As also should Christians.
Worldview matters. Thankfully few of us are called to live out our beliefs in the middle of a crisis. So what's our excuse in everyday life?
On the surface it is a great human interest story. It portrays four people who gave of themselves and helped others while overcoming fear and obstacles in the midst of a tragedy. Its the kind of thing that you don't see much of, but when you do, its inspiring.
I find it interesting that two of the persons who stayed behind to help were US military personnel, one was directly identified as a Christian. I don't think that was a random correlation. As BreakPoint points out when referring to this same incident, the military is one of the last places in America where men and women are taught to put others first. As also should Christians.
Worldview matters. Thankfully few of us are called to live out our beliefs in the middle of a crisis. So what's our excuse in everyday life?
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Not Until You're Twelve
Or maybe 10, in the state of Wisconsin.
For those who may miss the pop culture reference in the title of this post, it is from the original 1971 version of Willie Wonka and The Chocolate Factory. A permissive parent (to say the least) interacts with his son in the following quote from the movie:
Mike Teevee: Wait till I get a real one. Colt 45. Pop won't let me have one yet, will ya, Pop?
Mr. Teevee: Not till you're 12, son.
There was a lot of satire in the original that probably was intended to give the children's film broader appeal for adults (similar to the sexual innuendo and double entendres in today's "children's" movies). However in this case, the satire seems to be lost on this group of lawmakers.
Just to make sure this is taken as irony and not an anti-gun position, I'll make the following disclaimer. As a registered gun owner and sport shooting hobbyist, I am clearly in favor of protecting Second Amendment rights. Although I am not personally interested in hunting as a hobby, it should also be afforded the same protection.
Raising responsible children has many facets and at the proper time for the individual child, can include gun safety. Just not in any 10 year olds I've known.
Alternate tag: Things that make you go "hmmmm"...
For those who may miss the pop culture reference in the title of this post, it is from the original 1971 version of Willie Wonka and The Chocolate Factory. A permissive parent (to say the least) interacts with his son in the following quote from the movie:
Mike Teevee: Wait till I get a real one. Colt 45. Pop won't let me have one yet, will ya, Pop?
Mr. Teevee: Not till you're 12, son.
There was a lot of satire in the original that probably was intended to give the children's film broader appeal for adults (similar to the sexual innuendo and double entendres in today's "children's" movies). However in this case, the satire seems to be lost on this group of lawmakers.
Just to make sure this is taken as irony and not an anti-gun position, I'll make the following disclaimer. As a registered gun owner and sport shooting hobbyist, I am clearly in favor of protecting Second Amendment rights. Although I am not personally interested in hunting as a hobby, it should also be afforded the same protection.
Raising responsible children has many facets and at the proper time for the individual child, can include gun safety. Just not in any 10 year olds I've known.
Alternate tag: Things that make you go "hmmmm"...
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Which is the Imitation?
I'm a fan of (selected) comics. Not the type that are called graphic novels these days, but simply the small amusement from those in the daily paper. Some like Family Circus are cute, or funny like Garfield, or simply amusing like Frazz.
The best ones to me take a piece of daily life and find something amusing in it. Although I don't agree with many of their political views, Non Sequitur can be like that. Their recent series on Non Conceptual Scientists is a case in point. The last strip in the series contained the following quote:
...as a Pre Conceptual scientist, you reach a conclusion to a theory first then just ignore all evidence that proves you're wrong...
That was amusing to me from a number of worldview perspectives, but then I didn't think too much of it until I saw a feed today from The Times. It reports on one in seven scientists faking data to support a pre-conceived conclusion, usually in order to secure funding.
Life imitates art?
The best ones to me take a piece of daily life and find something amusing in it. Although I don't agree with many of their political views, Non Sequitur can be like that. Their recent series on Non Conceptual Scientists is a case in point. The last strip in the series contained the following quote:
...as a Pre Conceptual scientist, you reach a conclusion to a theory first then just ignore all evidence that proves you're wrong...
That was amusing to me from a number of worldview perspectives, but then I didn't think too much of it until I saw a feed today from The Times. It reports on one in seven scientists faking data to support a pre-conceived conclusion, usually in order to secure funding.
Life imitates art?
Friday, June 5, 2009
Easter in June
Not in the traditional Christian sense of celebrating the risen Savior of course (what did you expect) but in the tradition of software developers to put hidden features in their programs - usually that have nothing to do with the programs primary purpose. Those hidden features are typically known as "Easter Eggs".
Google has produced some amazing services and tools, not the least of which is the most comprehensive search the web has yet to see.
Hidden among all those offerings are a good number of "Easter Eggs". PC World put together a list of the top 17 from Google, including my favorite: the flight simulator inside of Google Earth.
I don't know how much of a hidden feature this is since it is actually well documented in the Google Earth User Guide but the list as a whole is a fun Friday diversion.
Enjoy.
Google has produced some amazing services and tools, not the least of which is the most comprehensive search the web has yet to see.
Hidden among all those offerings are a good number of "Easter Eggs". PC World put together a list of the top 17 from Google, including my favorite: the flight simulator inside of Google Earth.
I don't know how much of a hidden feature this is since it is actually well documented in the Google Earth User Guide but the list as a whole is a fun Friday diversion.
Enjoy.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Encouraging A (Perpetual) Mentality of Adolescence
All parents want better for their children than they had for themselves. Some parents go to great lengths to make this possible in the short term for their children. Others try and shield their children from the realities of life and consequences of their actions far into the child's teen years. Many times that shielding is not just from external challenges, but internal as well - from having to think critically.
Just as failing to let children learn from the consequences of their actions will lead to wrong actions in an adult world, failing to challenge them to think will lead to their acceptance of wrong ideas. Students, particularly at the high school level, are capable of much more than the popular media gives them credit for, with its encouragement of perpetual adolescence. If we can teach biology and chemistry in high school, why not real theology?
A recent article by John Stonestreet, writing for BreakPoint addresses these and several other issues in a high level outline for challenging students. Reading this article might raise some questions on how we're preparing our children, students and ourselves to respond to the issues in our culture.
Friday, May 29, 2009
100 Best Movie Lines
Something completely random for a fun Friday (warning - some mild profanity):
Was your favorite included?
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Hyphenated-American
The nomination of Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court is going to draw out all sorts of opinions. Those on judicial activism vs strict constructionism are to be expected. The focus on her race as part of her selection, even her suitability for the Supreme Court, are not. That focus reflects poorly on many attitudes in America and how our leaders are chosen.
Many persons, particularly in public service, seem to prefer a hyphenated label to identify themselves. The labels typically indicate a country of origin for one's ancestors and in practical use become an implied racial designation. Does it bother anyone that these labels always precede the term American, almost taking on primary importance? I'm reminded of the following quote by one of our former presidents:
"There is no room in this country for hyphenated Americanism. When I refer to hyphenated Americans, I do not refer to naturalized Americans. Some of the very best Americans I have ever known were naturalized Americans, Americans born abroad. But a hyphenated American is not an American at all... The one absolutely certain way of bringing this nation to ruin, of preventing all possibility of its continuing to be a nation at all, would be to permit it to become a tangle of squabbling nationalities, an intricate knot of German-Americans, Irish-Americans, English-Americans, French-Americans, Scandinavian-Americans or Italian-Americans, each preserving its separate nationality, each at heart feeling more sympathy with Europeans of that nationality, than with the other citizens of the American Republic... There is no such thing as a hyphenated American who is a good American. The only man who is a good American is the man who is an American and nothing else."
Teddy Roosevelt, Addressing the Knights of Columbus in New York City, October 12, 1915
A good friend of mine recently became an American citizen after being legally in America for the required length of time, passing all the required exams and background checks. He is highly educated, having multiple masters degrees and an earned doctorate in statistics. With those credentials and speaking (I believe) five languages he could live and be successful in any part of the world he desired. He chose to come to America and has become very succesful professionally and personally here. The pride he now exhibits in being an American citizen exceeds that I've seen in some new parents! There is no hyphenation for him. He is an American now and nothing else.
Judge Sotomayor herself will effectively be on trial for some number of weeks to come. The views and prejudices of America, from both sides of the political fence, likely will be too.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
No Laughing Matter
This has to be a sign of the times...or that most governments have no clue what their real priorities are. Four states have adopted "no smile" policies for their drivers licenses.
The article states that the facial recognition software in use matches new to old licenses better when people have dull expressions. So all a person needs to do to assume a new identity is smile?
That might not be exactly right, but it is an idea. :-)
The article states that the facial recognition software in use matches new to old licenses better when people have dull expressions. So all a person needs to do to assume a new identity is smile?
That might not be exactly right, but it is an idea. :-)
Monday, May 25, 2009
A Different Kind of Memorial
This post is being written on Memorial Day and it would not be right to let the occasion pass without an open "Thank You" to all the men and women who have served the United States in conflicts far and wide so that we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. We are created in God's image according to His purpose and in this fallen world it is the soldier who gives us our freedoms. So to all those who have served, Thank You.
That observance having been made, our household can be as distracted as any American's and we often see a long weekend as an opportunity to get more done. Excusing the play on words in the title, that usually makes for a different memory - usually one anchored to a full weekend of home repairs. That actually hadn't been the case this Memorial Day, until 9pm last night when we noticed water coming from under the dishwasher. Sigh.
The next two hours were spent pulling the dishwasher out, drying everything off and finding the leak. Turns out it is where
the motor shaft enters the impeller. Something that might be able to be fixed with a new seal seat ring or seal head inside the impeller. Problem is that the shaft has rusted slightly and is fused to the impeller assembly. Not an uncommon problem according to the repair forums, but one that will potentially result in damage to the motor to pry apart. At that point its not worth it to me to replace both the pump and impeller assembly on an 11 year old dishwasher.
Definitely in the category of things I didn't plan to do when I got up this morning - go shopping for a dishwasher. Oh well, I have the ability and freedom to be able to do so. For that, I am thankful.
Happy Memorial Day to veterans everywhere!
That observance having been made, our household can be as distracted as any American's and we often see a long weekend as an opportunity to get more done. Excusing the play on words in the title, that usually makes for a different memory - usually one anchored to a full weekend of home repairs. That actually hadn't been the case this Memorial Day, until 9pm last night when we noticed water coming from under the dishwasher. Sigh.
The next two hours were spent pulling the dishwasher out, drying everything off and finding the leak. Turns out it is where
the motor shaft enters the impeller. Something that might be able to be fixed with a new seal seat ring or seal head inside the impeller. Problem is that the shaft has rusted slightly and is fused to the impeller assembly. Not an uncommon problem according to the repair forums, but one that will potentially result in damage to the motor to pry apart. At that point its not worth it to me to replace both the pump and impeller assembly on an 11 year old dishwasher.Definitely in the category of things I didn't plan to do when I got up this morning - go shopping for a dishwasher. Oh well, I have the ability and freedom to be able to do so. For that, I am thankful.
Happy Memorial Day to veterans everywhere!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Virtual Vacations
Time spent on the computer for many people is a form of escapism. Similar to being immersed in a good novel, the experience can expand one's horizons. The analogy isn't perfect and both mediums certainly have their strengths. However, at the risk of sounding too much like a Google fan, Google Streetview can present some amazing sights. Amazing enough to provide some very interesting escapes.
With only a little Googling, some popular tourist sites can be found like: Big Ben, the Eiffel tower, the Roman Colosseum, even Yellowstone National Park. Some, like Mount Rushmore are not nearly as detailed. As you consider your own to search for, think of how close the camera car can get, as well as any travel restrictions in the area or country chosen.
Google has had its share of privacy issues with capturing unintended street views, however any image taken is public by its very nature, if not timing. Legalities and liberties aside, its a great diversion.
I don't know how much time was spent following these links, or creating some of your own, but I hope you enjoyed this virtual vacation. It definitely saves money on travel!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Childhood Expectations
There's probably a larger commentary in here than I intend to write. Something deep and insightful that explores the balance between pushing a child beyond their years and conversely not challenging them enough. However, like most matters that involve raising children, those boundaries are deeply personal and can only be decided on an individual level by a child's parents.
That having been said, I do believe that as a culture, we don't expect enough out of our young people. Maybe its because we don't believe that they are capable of more than the underachieving stereotypes commonly presented in the media.
Social dynamics aside, two items caught my interest recently that got me thinking about childhood expectations: Zara Larsson and the Clapham School. On the surface they might appear unrelated, however both are prime examples of excellence from sources we might not ordinarily expect - a ten year old singer and eight year old students.
These children clearly have excelled in their environments, no doubt with the encouragement and support of many adults, including their parents. It would be difficult to know if they were pushed, but clearly they were not inhibited by low expectations.
Its something to keep in mind as we raise up the next generation of leaders. Excellence is never an accident.
That having been said, I do believe that as a culture, we don't expect enough out of our young people. Maybe its because we don't believe that they are capable of more than the underachieving stereotypes commonly presented in the media.
Social dynamics aside, two items caught my interest recently that got me thinking about childhood expectations: Zara Larsson and the Clapham School. On the surface they might appear unrelated, however both are prime examples of excellence from sources we might not ordinarily expect - a ten year old singer and eight year old students.
These children clearly have excelled in their environments, no doubt with the encouragement and support of many adults, including their parents. It would be difficult to know if they were pushed, but clearly they were not inhibited by low expectations.
Its something to keep in mind as we raise up the next generation of leaders. Excellence is never an accident.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Trial Riding
From the first clip riding across the top of a fence to the last jump, this is an amazing video of street trails riding:
Amazing and inspiring, but now I suspect that riding the Airdyne tonight just won't be the same. A great 5:38 diversion regardless. Enjoy.
Amazing and inspiring, but now I suspect that riding the Airdyne tonight just won't be the same. A great 5:38 diversion regardless. Enjoy.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Fried Chicken & Hot Sauce
My job allows me the flexibility to work from home at times and today was one of those days. That flexibility affords many opportunities, one of which being culinary diversions - aka great lunches. Today's was inspired by a downtown restaurant, semi famous for dipping its fried chicken in hot sauce and serving in a sandwich.
I'll confess that I didn't have to go as far as the whole breading and frying route. That was already done for me by way of leftovers. The hot sauce application and consumption was all mine though.
A beautiful day in the Carolinas and a great lunch. Just thought I'd share my inspiration. Enjoy!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Are We Or Aren't We?
A Christian nation that is. Not that every citizen is a Christian, but that this country was founded on and still operates on a rule of law that is derived from Christian beliefs. This historical foundation is the basis of our freedom today.
The question is particularly relevant as President Obama continues to state that America is no longer Christian. Holding to that worldview has a definite impact.
A guest columnist on OneNewsNow.com puts an excellent perspective on the President's knowledge of history in an article titled "Arrogant Americans, Mr President?" which contains the following quote:
There are a lot of things going on right now in Washington that I believe are detrimental to our country. But it is our country. Why does our President continually see fit to condemn it?
The question is particularly relevant as President Obama continues to state that America is no longer Christian. Holding to that worldview has a definite impact.
A guest columnist on OneNewsNow.com puts an excellent perspective on the President's knowledge of history in an article titled "Arrogant Americans, Mr President?" which contains the following quote:
Barack Obama's first foreign trip as President of the United States has confirmed the naiveté so many of us feared during the election cycle. But worse than that, it has also demonstrated that our president suffers from either a complete misunderstanding of our heritage and history, or an utter contempt for it. Neither is excusable.
There are a lot of things going on right now in Washington that I believe are detrimental to our country. But it is our country. Why does our President continually see fit to condemn it?
Saturday, April 11, 2009
A Fair Vote
Our family was selected to participate in an Arbitron radio survey. The poll lasted a week and consisted of simply recording when and what we listened to (individually) on the radio. We were selected by a random dialer as part of a nationwide survey. The results will be used to rank radio stations which no doubt will drive advertising campaigns and rates - although probably not on listener supported stations such as WRCM.
Maybe I'm just naturally suspicious or have let myself be influenced by national news reports on voting scandals (such as the fraud occuring in Minnesota with Al Franken since November). However in this case, I'm trusting Arbitron to administer the results fairly and then represent my preferences as part of the bigger picture.
A capitalistic free market should be driven by consumer demand. Government intervention to "balance" something the market won't support (such as with the politically driven so called Fairness Doctrine) has never proven to be sustainable. Thats why buying locally in your community and "voting" with your dollars is the best way to support the economy where you live.
Indirectly, thats what we did by participating in the Arbitron survey. It seems like a fair vote.
Maybe I'm just naturally suspicious or have let myself be influenced by national news reports on voting scandals (such as the fraud occuring in Minnesota with Al Franken since November). However in this case, I'm trusting Arbitron to administer the results fairly and then represent my preferences as part of the bigger picture.
A capitalistic free market should be driven by consumer demand. Government intervention to "balance" something the market won't support (such as with the politically driven so called Fairness Doctrine) has never proven to be sustainable. Thats why buying locally in your community and "voting" with your dollars is the best way to support the economy where you live.
Indirectly, thats what we did by participating in the Arbitron survey. It seems like a fair vote.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Where Are We Going?
News story heard today:
Uncle Sam was discovered today wandering aimlessly through the wilderness, many miles from the main highway. He had no cash or valuables and was in the words of one official "severely confused and physically ill". Here's the man who found him: "It was like he didn't know where he was going or where he came from." Uncle Sam has been hospitalized and is reportedly in critical condition.
Credit to Just Thinking - this was the intro to their "Understanding the Spirit of the Age" podcast.
Uncle Sam was discovered today wandering aimlessly through the wilderness, many miles from the main highway. He had no cash or valuables and was in the words of one official "severely confused and physically ill". Here's the man who found him: "It was like he didn't know where he was going or where he came from." Uncle Sam has been hospitalized and is reportedly in critical condition.
Credit to Just Thinking - this was the intro to their "Understanding the Spirit of the Age" podcast.
Friday, March 27, 2009
The Best Watchdog
It looks like the old joke has finally been proven true. We have one of those watchdogs that burglars fear the most - the kind they'll trip over in the dark! WebMd now verifies how effective they are!
In reality, she's a very sweet dog (ignore the reflective eyes in the photo) and an excellent watchdog...but clearly all bark!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Free Information
Not just the random posts in this blog, but actual useful information - business information. More specifically business phone numbers. I might be late to discover this, but for anyone else who might have missed it, Google has a 411 service that's free to use and even to auto-connect.
The service is described at http://www.google.com/goog411/ and can be used by calling 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411). It might just be because I still have a restrictive cell phone plan, but free 411 is worth $1.50 a call to me if I'm out somewhere and need to call a business for directions.
For the Google world domination theorists, one final thought - it was interesting when I programmed the 411 number into my cell phone that T9 already knew "Google". Ah...I'll use it anyway, its free.
The service is described at http://www.google.com/goog411/ and can be used by calling 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411). It might just be because I still have a restrictive cell phone plan, but free 411 is worth $1.50 a call to me if I'm out somewhere and need to call a business for directions.
For the Google world domination theorists, one final thought - it was interesting when I programmed the 411 number into my cell phone that T9 already knew "Google". Ah...I'll use it anyway, its free.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Successful Operation
This week's operation was a success by any standard. The old part that was causing all the trouble came out without any complications. It was actually an easy operation on a body that is considered old by today's standards. Everything is closed back up and functioning fine.
I'm talking about our main home computer of course, a commodity PC purchased for a rock bottom price about 4 years ago. The power supply quit working a week and a half ago and I've been waiting to be able to install the replacement. It was satisfying that something made to compete in a very thin profit margin environment was also designed to be serviceable. In an increasingly disposable, impatient society that seems a rarity.
My "other" operation was a success this week also. Thanks to all who prayed for me and my family during that time. I won't be like new as fast as our computer, but I'm doing very well.
I'm talking about our main home computer of course, a commodity PC purchased for a rock bottom price about 4 years ago. The power supply quit working a week and a half ago and I've been waiting to be able to install the replacement. It was satisfying that something made to compete in a very thin profit margin environment was also designed to be serviceable. In an increasingly disposable, impatient society that seems a rarity.My "other" operation was a success this week also. Thanks to all who prayed for me and my family during that time. I won't be like new as fast as our computer, but I'm doing very well.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Laying Down
This week I'm going to have my gall bladder removed (too much information?). Its an operation that has been becoming increasingly more necessary for me and so I'm hoping for a wide range of symptoms to go away after everything is healed. It is a common surgery, lasting only from 40 minutes to 2 hours, able to be done as outpatient if all goes well.
I'm not really excited about having four holes cut in my chest or the steps that follow, but I'm not really worried either. If I was going to worry, it would be about complications during anesthesia, contracting MRSA or a staph infection while in the hospital. The reality is that of course I have no reason to believe that any of that will happen. However, every time a person has surgery performed, there is a measure of some size in facing death. Without being overly dramatic, it does make you think.
This week I'm going to lay down and place (some of) the trust for my life in a team of medical professionals. Every day when I lay down I'm secure knowing that I've placed the trust for my life in Jesus Christ. This week or many years from now, I know my eternal destination is Heaven and that my salvation is secure. I know this not through anything I have done or accomplished, but because I accepted the free gift of salvation as offered to all by Jesus Christ when I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior.
There is a God. He is real. We can know Him. He has a plan for your life. Have you accepted Him as your Lord and Savior?
If you want to know more about the Christian faith or accepting Jesus yourself, please follow the links provided and/or contact me. When I am back on my feet or at least able to sit in front of a computer again, I'll return any comments privately. At this time I don't have any interest in hosting a moderated debate via this blog. But I'm always interested in sharing the hope that I have. Ask me.
Looking forward to the future.
I'm not really excited about having four holes cut in my chest or the steps that follow, but I'm not really worried either. If I was going to worry, it would be about complications during anesthesia, contracting MRSA or a staph infection while in the hospital. The reality is that of course I have no reason to believe that any of that will happen. However, every time a person has surgery performed, there is a measure of some size in facing death. Without being overly dramatic, it does make you think.
This week I'm going to lay down and place (some of) the trust for my life in a team of medical professionals. Every day when I lay down I'm secure knowing that I've placed the trust for my life in Jesus Christ. This week or many years from now, I know my eternal destination is Heaven and that my salvation is secure. I know this not through anything I have done or accomplished, but because I accepted the free gift of salvation as offered to all by Jesus Christ when I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior.
There is a God. He is real. We can know Him. He has a plan for your life. Have you accepted Him as your Lord and Savior?
If you want to know more about the Christian faith or accepting Jesus yourself, please follow the links provided and/or contact me. When I am back on my feet or at least able to sit in front of a computer again, I'll return any comments privately. At this time I don't have any interest in hosting a moderated debate via this blog. But I'm always interested in sharing the hope that I have. Ask me.
Looking forward to the future.
Friday, February 27, 2009
BBQ Season
Actually, it is coming close to vacation season. How do I know? Everywhere you turn there are advertisements (with unusually deep discounts this year) to book your vacation now. However, I've always preferred to assemble my own "vacation packages", frankly on a scale well below what the ads portray.
So influenced by Madison Avenue and armed with the false confidence that precedes any trip planning, I wondered what would be a good (great?) vacation to plan. Then I remembered The NC Barbecue Society Historic Trail. Some families retrace historical events from times in the nation's history, so why not do the same on the state level - with some great food thrown in as a bonus?
The Society makes them all sound good, although there are obviously going to be a lot of favorites left off any "best of" list. Additionally there were restrictions such as only two sites per town. I can personally vouch for Hurshey's, Lexington #1 and Bridges. Especially Bridges.
If you're just a little curious, I've mapped the whole tour (less Cobb & Son, which I couldn't find) via Google maps - all 15 hours of driving. Will we really turn vacation season into BBQ season this year? I doubt it, but it was fun to plan.
Now maybe if we can get school credit for the trip, hmmm...
So influenced by Madison Avenue and armed with the false confidence that precedes any trip planning, I wondered what would be a good (great?) vacation to plan. Then I remembered The NC Barbecue Society Historic Trail. Some families retrace historical events from times in the nation's history, so why not do the same on the state level - with some great food thrown in as a bonus?
The Society makes them all sound good, although there are obviously going to be a lot of favorites left off any "best of" list. Additionally there were restrictions such as only two sites per town. I can personally vouch for Hurshey's, Lexington #1 and Bridges. Especially Bridges.
If you're just a little curious, I've mapped the whole tour (less Cobb & Son, which I couldn't find) via Google maps - all 15 hours of driving. Will we really turn vacation season into BBQ season this year? I doubt it, but it was fun to plan.
Now maybe if we can get school credit for the trip, hmmm...
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
"Merci" or "Mercy"?
If you've got 8 minutes of your life that you're not doing anything with, check out the downhill run these two mountain bikers make in the French Alps.
Its not as much of a roller coaster effect as you might expect, but look at the drop off in the switch backs, just waiting for a rider to enter with too much speed. Also, don't miss the thin rope on the right side of the trail on some of the really steep slopes.
I couldn't tell though, as they passed slower riders (especially the last time - while in the air) if they were saying the French word for "thanks" or asking God for mercy on their descent. You decide.
It is an amazing run to watch. Definitely for a much higher caliber rider than I ever was. The local single track along the Catawba is more than enough for me.
Its not as much of a roller coaster effect as you might expect, but look at the drop off in the switch backs, just waiting for a rider to enter with too much speed. Also, don't miss the thin rope on the right side of the trail on some of the really steep slopes.
I couldn't tell though, as they passed slower riders (especially the last time - while in the air) if they were saying the French word for "thanks" or asking God for mercy on their descent. You decide.
It is an amazing run to watch. Definitely for a much higher caliber rider than I ever was. The local single track along the Catawba is more than enough for me.
Monday, February 23, 2009
My $0.028
In 2007, Congress directed the Mint to produce four new commemorative designs for the Lincoln penny to be rotated throughout 2009, celebrating the 200th anniversary of Lincoln
The timing of this years release of theLincoln Washington
It would be nice if politicians had a better sense of history. FDR's New Deal program is often cited as support for the current "stimulus package" but FDR's own treasury secretary is quoted as saying "...I say after eight years of this administration we have just as much unemployment as when we started and an enormous debt to boot." This isn't unique to theUnited States Japan
What is the real solution? It seems clear that it has to be one built on real free market demand that creates sustainable jobs. Not one that it artificially supported by the government. The best way to do that? Let wage earners keep and therefore direct more of the money they earn. There are politicians that recognize this, such asTexas
One final economic thought as a footnote - due to increases in copper and zinc values it apparently now costs around 1.4 cents to make a penny. So I guess that makes this my $0.028.
The timing of this years release of the
It would be nice if politicians had a better sense of history. FDR's New Deal program is often cited as support for the current "stimulus package" but FDR's own treasury secretary is quoted as saying "...I say after eight years of this administration we have just as much unemployment as when we started and an enormous debt to boot." This isn't unique to the
What is the real solution? It seems clear that it has to be one built on real free market demand that creates sustainable jobs. Not one that it artificially supported by the government. The best way to do that? Let wage earners keep and therefore direct more of the money they earn. There are politicians that recognize this, such as
One final economic thought as a footnote - due to increases in copper and zinc values it apparently now costs around 1.4 cents to make a penny. So I guess that makes this my $0.028.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Doing More With Less
So you say visiting a blog is too much trouble? Already have enough things to read, do and keep track of? You wish blog authors would simply go back to mass emails? RSS can help. You'll still have to decide what is worth reading, but RSS is one of the few things that really enables you to do "more with less". In four easy and free steps that should take less than 10 minutes. Here is how:
- Sign up for a Google account and login. If you've already got a gmail account, just login. Even if you never intend to send a single email via gmail, get an account anyway.
- Visit a blog site that has RSS enabled (like this one!) and click the RSS icon in the address bar
- Choose the "Subscribe to 'Entropy By Design - RSS" choice in the dropdown that appears
- Click the "Add to Google Reader" button on the page loads next
Thats it. In the future, instead of remembering a list of sites you want to visit or managing a set of bookmarks, just visit http://www.google.com/reader Any sites you've subscribed to that have new content will be shown. No need to try and determine what news and articles are new, the tool does it for you. There is plenty of online help, such as keyboard shortcuts like "J", "K" and "V", but at this point you've learned all you need to know. Seriously.
To find additional sites, just click the "Add A Subscription" button while in Google Reader. Use any natural language terms ("Fox News", "CNN Money", etc.) to find things of interest to you. You can view and subscribe, all for free. Once subscribed the Reader will allow rapid navigation ("J") between article summaries, so you can select only the ones that interest you to view ("V"). A massive time savings over web browsing, print media and don't even get me started about television!
RSS allows you to read more, in less time, with less effort than you can imagine. Take control. Give it a try.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Banning Books
Well, sort of. Not directly in the way that the phrase usually makes people think. However, there is a cause for concern and depending on your viewpoint - action.
The CPSC's ban on the sale of children's books printed prior to 1985 went into effect on Feb 10th. On the surface this has an admirable goal - keeping children from being exposed to lead. A side effect is that many children's classics that are out of print can no longer legally be sold in used book stores, thrift shops or any retail establishment. Public libraries also seem required to comply.
The CPSC's ban on the sale of children's books printed prior to 1985 went into effect on Feb 10th. On the surface this has an admirable goal - keeping children from being exposed to lead. A side effect is that many children's classics that are out of print can no longer legally be sold in used book stores, thrift shops or any retail establishment. Public libraries also seem required to comply.
There don't seem to be any documented cases of lead poisoning via books on the web. The CDC doesn't even list books as a source of lead exposure on their web site. So how did books get included? They don't flake off edible chips like the old lead paint. They aren't "tasted" in the same manner or frequency as toys manufactured in developing nations can be. Its difficult to say. There is plenty of room for conspiracy theories, but I'm not interested in going there.
There are some efforts underway to modify (but not eliminate) the problems this will cause. The American Library Association, which raised an early warning on this issue, is staking out a position that "distribution" applies only to sales. Senator Jim DeMint has stated his intent to reform the CPSIA. There may be other efforts to mitigate the effect of this act, but in the meantime the danger to many classics is real as shop owners can't afford to risk the penalties they might face. Some might feel compelled to destroy the books rather than be fined.
So if you want to preserve classic children's books, many with a decidedly different religious, social, political value than those being produced today, you may want to consider purchasing a few of your old favorites while you still can. When and if you do, please don't treat them as museum pieces, loan them to others. They only have value if they're read.
Friday, February 13, 2009
It Just Didn't Seem Right
One of the projects that I'd planned over doing over the long President's Day weekend was repairing my Airdyne. The offset pin holding one of the pedal arms sheared a couple of weeks ago and needed to be replaced. After locating a parts supplier, I thought it would be a relatively straight forward repair after extracting the sheared pin.
However, once the nut was off on the pedal arm, the assembly below - inside the pedal arm - was revealed.
As an added distraction, the part shows an offset between entry and exit to to the arm.
Soooo.....the question is - how do you remove a threaded on one end, smooth on the other, offset "bolt"?
The answer is you realize it isn't a bolt, but rather a wedge pin. Its way too tight to be pulled out by the non threaded end or simply tapped out from the other. The only solution is to put the nut partially back on to increase the surface area while protecting the threads - and give it a good hearty blow with a hammer. Once removed, it looks like this:
Like everything, its easy once you know how to do it. However, getting there took more than a little thinking, experimentation and in the end web searching that found an exploded parts diagram.
Until then though, I couldn't bring myself to do it. Hitting a threaded part with a hammer just didn't seem right.
However, once the nut was off on the pedal arm, the assembly below - inside the pedal arm - was revealed.
As an added distraction, the part shows an offset between entry and exit to to the arm.
Soooo.....the question is - how do you remove a threaded on one end, smooth on the other, offset "bolt"?
The answer is you realize it isn't a bolt, but rather a wedge pin. Its way too tight to be pulled out by the non threaded end or simply tapped out from the other. The only solution is to put the nut partially back on to increase the surface area while protecting the threads - and give it a good hearty blow with a hammer. Once removed, it looks like this:
Like everything, its easy once you know how to do it. However, getting there took more than a little thinking, experimentation and in the end web searching that found an exploded parts diagram.
Until then though, I couldn't bring myself to do it. Hitting a threaded part with a hammer just didn't seem right.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Somethings Gotta Be First
This blog has been created for a while and yet there have been no posts. It could be that I was crafting the perfect initial post, or keeping true to the masthead and setting expectations low or maybe I'm overall just more interested in reading than writing. Could be some of each, it will have to be an exercise left to the reader - if there are any.
That having been said, something has to be first and so this post is it. Other than stating the obvious above, the only real purpose is to share the picture above, found on the pilgrim in a foreign land blog, which was in a list of sites recommended to me by a friend.
Which ever side of the political fence you lean to, I hope you found it at least slightly amusing. If not, you probably didn't make it this far anyway.
Disappointed? Oh, well - somethings gotta be first.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)