Fascinating article on the Appalachian Dialect by my buddy Elvis. Some of these I'd never heard. What shocked me was the use of the word "stocking cap." A toboggan, for me, was both a long sled meant for several people and a knitted cap that you wear in the winter. I guess you learn something new every day.
thanks again Elvis!
Laura
Friday, January 19, 2007
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Strangers - a photoset on Flickr
Strangers - a photoset on Flickr
This is a very interesting project in which a person takes a photo of a stranger every day. I imagine I would have a hard time!
This is a very interesting project in which a person takes a photo of a stranger every day. I imagine I would have a hard time!
Monday, January 08, 2007
Where is your accent?
| What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Midland "You have a Midland accent" is just another way of saying "you don't have an accent." You probably are from the Midland (Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Missouri) but then for all we know you could be from Florida or Charleston or one of those big southern cities like Atlanta or Dallas. You have a good voice for TV and radio. | |
| The West | |
| The South | |
| Boston | |
| North Central | |
| The Inland North | |
| Philadelphia | |
| The Northeast | |
| What American accent do you have? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz | |
Friday, January 05, 2007
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
States I've visited
create your own visited states map
Interesting idea. And now I know where I need to go next! Maybe that New ENgland trip isn't a bad idea.
Interesting enough that the only region that I've visted all the states is Appalachia. Guess I have more of a connection than I thought.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Marshall coach recalls sadness, triumph - College football - MSNBC.com
This weekend, while fighting the damn bronchitis, I went to see We are Marshall in the theater in Charleston. I was quite impressed by the movie. It was done quite well, with no condescension toward Appalachia (something I'd worried about), and emotion without sappiness. I'd highly recommend it. At the end, I was wondering what was accurate and what wasn't. This interview with Lengyel answered my questions. Yes, the final play wasn't the same as in the history boooks, but I think you'll agree that it provided a needed symmetry for the movie.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
BBC NEWS | South Asia | Indian athlete fails gender test
This is the strangest thing I've seen in a long time. BBC NEWS | South Asia | Indian athlete fails gender test
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Should you have graduated High School?
OK, so I found another new site and can't tear myself away.....
I'm glad to know that the doctorate has prepared me to score excellently on Internet quizzes.
You paid attention during 97% of high school!
85-100% You must be an autodidact, because American high schools don't get scores that high! Good show, old chap!
Do you deserve your high school diploma?
Create a Quiz
I'm glad to know that the doctorate has prepared me to score excellently on Internet quizzes.
Do You Drink Republican Kool-Aid?
You Drink Republican Kool-Aid 0% of the Time!
Congratulations, you do not drink the Republican Kool-Aid. You haven't been brainwashed and are able to think for yourself rather than get your daily marching orders from the right-wing media. Mindless submission to our leader has no place in America. You, sir or ma'am, are a patriot.
Do You Drink Republican Kool-Aid?
Are YOU a terrorist?
Always nice to have validation...
Your 'Do You Want the Terrorists to Win' Score: 94%
You are a terrorist-loving, Bush-bashing, "blame America first"-crowd traitor. You are in league with evil-doers who hate our freedoms. By all counts you are a liberal, and as such cleary desire the terrorists to succeed and impose their harsh theocratic restrictions on us all. You are fit to be hung for treason! Luckily George Bush is tapping your internet connection and is now aware of your thought-crime. Have a nice day.... in Guantanamo!
Do You Want the Terrorists to Win?
Quiz Created on GoToQuiz
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
Friday, November 17, 2006
YouTube - WVU Vs. Pitt Pat White Growl
This one's even better!YouTube - WVU Vs. Pitt Pat White Growl
Pat White mocks Panther Meow
I laughed till I cried. I thought it was funny last night on TV, but it just keeps getting better! YouTube - Pat White mocks Panther Meow
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
I am Spiderman
I think I would have preferred Isis or Wonder Woman. Then again, I don't think anyone remembers Isis.
Your results:
You are Spider-Man
Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz
Your results:
You are Spider-Man
| You are intelligent, witty, a bit geeky and have great power and responsibility.  |
Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Monday, November 13, 2006
GOP dirty tricks. - By Bonnie Goldstein - Slate Magazine
See, it DOES happen elsewhere. GOP dirty tricks. - By Bonnie Goldstein - Slate Magazine
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Steve Slaton Heisman Campaign
Finally, a platform we can live with. Wonder where I can get my "Slaton for Heismann" shirts and buttons?
Monday, November 06, 2006
Tennessee Jed: Metaphorical pumpkin flesh
Wonderful pumpkin carving honoring Pink Floyd great Syd Barrett, who passed along earlier this year. May he rest in peace. I think that either Syd or Roger, whichever incarnation of his sanity was there, would be quite pleased with the tribute.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Ode to the WVU-Louisville Game
At least the game last night got our creative minds working.....
Slaton with the Ball
Brief Reflections on the Start of the Second Half
By Mountain Laurel and Kim
(with apologies to Ernest L. Thayer)
The outlook wasn't brilliant for the Mountaineers that day,
The score stood sixteen-fourteen, with two quarters left to play.
And after the ball came out after several long yard gains,
A pall-like silence fell upon the 'Eer's fans at the game.
But a recovery from our heroes after Brohm's pass to the ten
The boys from West Virginia were in the game again.
The straggling few that turn to go and cursed in deep despair
Turned back and basked in new hopes now floating in the air
They thought, "if only Slaton could but get a whack again.
We'd put up even money now, 90 yards and he's in.
The clock ran down, the line came up, the official spotted the ball
White handed off to Slaton, surprising no one with the call.
Oh, somewhere in this favored land the sun is shining bright.
The band is playing somewhere, and couches all burn bright.
And, somewhere men are laughing, and little children shout,
but there is no joy in Motown --
mighty Slaton's arm gave out.
Slaton with the Ball
Brief Reflections on the Start of the Second Half
By Mountain Laurel and Kim
(with apologies to Ernest L. Thayer)
The outlook wasn't brilliant for the Mountaineers that day,
The score stood sixteen-fourteen, with two quarters left to play.
And after the ball came out after several long yard gains,
A pall-like silence fell upon the 'Eer's fans at the game.
But a recovery from our heroes after Brohm's pass to the ten
The boys from West Virginia were in the game again.
The straggling few that turn to go and cursed in deep despair
Turned back and basked in new hopes now floating in the air
They thought, "if only Slaton could but get a whack again.
We'd put up even money now, 90 yards and he's in.
The clock ran down, the line came up, the official spotted the ball
White handed off to Slaton, surprising no one with the call.
Oh, somewhere in this favored land the sun is shining bright.
The band is playing somewhere, and couches all burn bright.
And, somewhere men are laughing, and little children shout,
but there is no joy in Motown --
mighty Slaton's arm gave out.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Cure your own hiccups! [rec.humor.funny]
Sometimes the cure is worse than the disease. I wonder who funded this study? Cure your own hiccups! [rec.humor.funny]
Friday, October 27, 2006
Advice from Dear Abby
Take a look at this recent letter to Dear Abby about a pregnant teen who unwillingly tells her parents about her situation. Advice from Dear Abby on uExpress But yes, we need to make sure that we have parental notification so that the nasty tramp gets what's coming to her. And an abortion would have been so terrible and so much worse than what happened! This makes me furious.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Saddam, Year 2
Last Friday marks the second anniversary of my meeting Saddam the crawdad. Since then, Saddam has grown like a weed. He is now at least five inches long and growing. From his original hole next to the patio, he has expanded to a location near the steps. I can only conclude that he is expanding his home to accommodate a growing family.
He's getting bold in his advancing years. Every night he has been sitting with his body almost all the way out of his hole so that I can clearly see his claws and get an estimate of his size. On Sunday night I went outside to see him sitting all the way on my patio. I must have startled him because he ran back to the grass trolling for bugs. You know, the little guy is really starting to grow on me. I'll get a picture if I can.
And in a few more years, he'll end up being a GREAT lobster dinner.
He's getting bold in his advancing years. Every night he has been sitting with his body almost all the way out of his hole so that I can clearly see his claws and get an estimate of his size. On Sunday night I went outside to see him sitting all the way on my patio. I must have startled him because he ran back to the grass trolling for bugs. You know, the little guy is really starting to grow on me. I'll get a picture if I can.
And in a few more years, he'll end up being a GREAT lobster dinner.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
St. Expedite - Armeniapedia.org
The patron saint of hackers and the overworked. I guess they have a saint for everything!St. Expedite - Armeniapedia.org
Trunk Monkey Videos - Trunkmonkey Training Headquarters
Trunk Monkey Videos - Trunkmonkey Training Headquarters The definitive collection, plus a couple of other goodies like the 1984 Mac video and the Super Bowl Career Builder monkey commercials. Fun!
Friday, May 19, 2006
What poetry form are you?
|
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Jeffrey Zeldman Presents: The Ad Graveyard
Jeffrey Zeldman Presents: The Ad Graveyard Oh, so bad it's almost funny. Scrap the almost. It's damn funny, but I'm ashamed of myself for sayings o.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Session Details: An Exercise in Hard Choices
Session Details: An Exercise in Hard Choices Fiscal management for congressmen.
Friday, April 07, 2006
Don't wait until another dam breaks
Don't wait until another dam breaks Highlighting the importance of above-ground potential mining disasters such as Buffalo Creek in 1974.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
I Can Tell By the Tone of Your Voice...
Eide Neurolearning Blog: I Can Tell By the Tone of Your Voice...Yet another difference between men and women. I find this one fascinating. I wonder why it is? Ideas?
Attytood: Can you spot the mistakes in this photo?
Attytood: Can you spot the mistakes in this photo? It's just like those Sunday morning cartoons! I got both of them, but not for the same reason.
The New Sociology
A college student spends three days of his spring break at Wal-Mart. DesMoinesRegister.com I have felt like I was never going to get out of there. I don't see how he did it. I'd like to read his book, though, should he write it.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Whiny Kids Grow Up to be Conservatives
Hugh Hewitt: March 19, 2006 - March 25, 2006 Archives I've suspected it for a long time. And it makes sense.
Monday, March 20, 2006
WVU fans on Sports Illustrated cover! - www.scout.com
WVU fans on Sports Illustrated cover! - www.scout.com Finally, SI has the best fans on the cover!
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Updating Cyber Times: It's Time to Bring Our Culture Into Cyberspace
Updating Cyber Times: It's Time to Bring Our Culture Into Cyberspace Inteeresting idea, but doesn't quite yet live up to its potential. It'll be work folloiwng up now.
Friday, March 03, 2006
SI.com - Photo Gallery - Top 15 Seniors
SI.com - Photo Gallery - Top 15 Seniors Notice who's guarding him...that's right, it's Pittsnogle, in a WVU victory!!!
Kevin Pittsnogle: #10 Senior in the USA
SI.com - Photo Gallery - Top 15 Seniors So what's funny about Pittsnogle?
Kevin Pittsnogle: #10 Senior in the USA
SI.com - Photo Gallery - Top 15 Seniors So what's funny about Pittsnogle?
Sprint Commercial Honors WVU Tradition... - www.scout.com
Lvoe this WVU/PSU interchange. Sprint Commercial Honors WVU Tradition... - www.scout.com
Q. What's a Nittany?
A. Nit-an-e. Adjective meaning big, dumb, and ugly. :-)
Q. What's a Nittany?
A. Nit-an-e. Adjective meaning big, dumb, and ugly. :-)
The Voice of the Mountaineers
Jack Fleming will always be the Voice of the Mountaineers. Though I didn't hear this one at the time (I was at the game), it sure does bring back memories. May Jack rest in peace with all the eternal rewards he has earned for making so many so happy. JackFleming.mp3 (audio/mpeg Object)
For those of you who don't remember, that would be October 31, 1988, WVU vs. Penn State. I believe the final was 55-30 but I could be wrong about that. My trivia's getting a bit rusty.
For those of you who don't remember, that would be October 31, 1988, WVU vs. Penn State. I believe the final was 55-30 but I could be wrong about that. My trivia's getting a bit rusty.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
FOXNews.com - U.S. & World News - W. Va. Miner Still Doesn't Know Other Miners Died in Tragedy
FOXNews.com - U.S. & World News - W. Va. Miner Still Doesn't Know Other Miners Died in Tragedy "MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — In the two months since the blast at Sago Mine, lone survivor Randal McCloy Jr. has emerged from a coma and is learning to walk and talk again. Though he knows he is called a miracle, he hasn't been told why."
It's probably a blessing for him right now. He doesn't need to hear some of the other rumors about the other miners giving him their oxygen either. completely unsubstantiated, as in "how would we ever know?
Thank heavens we have one miracle. I would have preferred 12 or 13, but I am rejoicing over the life of that one man that made it out. He is a miracle, and I thank God for bringing him through.
It's probably a blessing for him right now. He doesn't need to hear some of the other rumors about the other miners giving him their oxygen either. completely unsubstantiated, as in "how would we ever know?
Thank heavens we have one miracle. I would have preferred 12 or 13, but I am rejoicing over the life of that one man that made it out. He is a miracle, and I thank God for bringing him through.
U.S. Is Reducing Safety Penalties for Mine Flaws - New York Times
U.S. Is Reducing Safety Penalties for Mine Flaws - New York Times: "In its drive to foster a more cooperative relationship with mining companies, the Bush administration has decreased major fines for safety violations since 2001, and in nearly half the cases, it has not collected the fines, according to a data analysis by The New York Times.
Larry Williams was injured in a 2002 collapse in West Virginia.
Federal records also show that in the last two years the federal mine safety agency has failed to hand over any delinquent cases to the Treasury Department for further collection efforts, as is supposed to occur after 180 days.
F. Brian Ferguson for The New York Times"
The rest of the article goes on to describe that miners near Rupert (a town with a GREAT classic county music station, btw) were in a roof fall. One was killed and one trapped for four hours. What horrified me is that they were using the technique called "pillaring," in which miners save columns of coal to be used as roof supports. Then, when they have mined the section, they go back and mine the coal from the pillars. It's a roof fall waiting to happen, and I thought it was illegal. Maybe they've made it legal again, or maybe the illegality was just a regulation (with a fine that may oremay not have been enforced).
This is what happens when you get Republicans in charge of the MSHA that want to foster a closer relationship with the industry.
May God forgive us all.
Larry Williams was injured in a 2002 collapse in West Virginia.
Federal records also show that in the last two years the federal mine safety agency has failed to hand over any delinquent cases to the Treasury Department for further collection efforts, as is supposed to occur after 180 days.
F. Brian Ferguson for The New York Times"
The rest of the article goes on to describe that miners near Rupert (a town with a GREAT classic county music station, btw) were in a roof fall. One was killed and one trapped for four hours. What horrified me is that they were using the technique called "pillaring," in which miners save columns of coal to be used as roof supports. Then, when they have mined the section, they go back and mine the coal from the pillars. It's a roof fall waiting to happen, and I thought it was illegal. Maybe they've made it legal again, or maybe the illegality was just a regulation (with a fine that may oremay not have been enforced).
This is what happens when you get Republicans in charge of the MSHA that want to foster a closer relationship with the industry.
May God forgive us all.
Friday, February 10, 2006
Thursday, February 02, 2006
washingtonpost.com: Email This Article
washingtonpost.com: Email This Article I want to read this and blog it tonight.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Georgia Bravado
Yet another interesting HTML recap of the Sugar Bowl. Georgia Bravado
I think it's a bit mean, and I would much rather see WVU fans rejoicing than UGA fans hanging their heads. The last screen shot makes it, though.
I think it's a bit mean, and I would much rather see WVU fans rejoicing than UGA fans hanging their heads. The last screen shot makes it, though.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Stream of Conciousness Notes - Sugar Bowl West Virginia vs. Georgia
THe best recap of the best game I've seen all season. I especially agree with the commentary on the commercials. However, I don't see how he could have seen the millionth crowd shot of WVU. IN the first quarter, if I recall correctly, all I saw were crowd shots of GA looking like they'd been hit with a two-by-four. Stream of Conciousness Notes - Sugar Bowl West Virginia vs. Georgia
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
What Sci Fi/Fantasy Character are You?
I'm Galadriel:
Possessing a rare combination of wisdom and humility, while serenely dominating your environment you selflessly use your powers to care for others.
Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
BlogherConferenceDiscussionGuidelines.pdf (application/pdf Object)
Interesting guidelines for conference panels, discussions, et al. Recommended by Ms. Mentor, so you know it's good.
Monday, November 14, 2005
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Monday, October 10, 2005
eSchool News online - Critics blast ED's 'propaganda' probe
OK, so let's see if I got this right. They did a probe that found that the Repubs had purchased propaganda in violation of federal rules, but they don't call it "Illegal"? Kind of makes you wonder where they'll draw the line. I wonder if such as defense would work against the IRS? eSchool News online - Critics blast ED's 'propaganda' probe: "D"
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Urban Legends Reference Pages: Religion (Bolt Upright)
LIghtning struck a church after the preacher asked God for an answer. A minister asked God for an answer, and I guess he got one! Further proof that you don't pray unless you're really ready fof the answer. Personaly, I think God's answer was "Shush!"
Monday, September 12, 2005
Boing Boing: Katrina: Wardriving occupied New Orleans on 9/11.
BoingBoing blog on Katrina's aftermath. THanks to Vicki for posting this to the Wood County Dems site.
Katrina PeopleFinder Project - Katrina Help Wiki
Another way to help. Katrina People Finder Project.
And I wonder why Blog This! is no longer copying the URL? Any ideas from anyone?
And I wonder why Blog This! is no longer copying the URL? Any ideas from anyone?
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
The Devastating Impact of Hurricane George
Interesting Article. And I've heard that the overflow of the lake that is now in NO is being called Lake George. I imagine he was looking forward to having an airport named after him like Ronnie. Now he's go his very own lake!
Friday, September 02, 2005
Roman's weblog » Post Apoclypse LA
The latest link from Roman's blog with links to NO LA blogs and images. Heartbreaking. Fine writer though he continues to be, I liked it better when he was blogging imagination and not reality. Imagination you can ignore and forget.
Friday, August 12, 2005
The WINBUTTON - You the button click. Money you might win.
Also visit its counterpart, the Losebutton. The WINBUTTON - You the button click. Money you might win.
New Words in the language
You know, this is what I just love about English. Our great language changes and gets more interesting by the day. Can you see this happening in French or inthe Spanish of Spain? The Seattle Times: Nation & World: Oxford dictionary accepts "phishing"
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Collective Nouns
Wowie Zowie! Thsi is really cool! The definihte list of of collective nouns. Collective Nouns
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Friday, July 01, 2005
NEA: NEA Wal-Mart Campaign
When you buy your back-to-school supplies, don't buy them at Wal-Mart. NEA: NEA Wal-Mart Campaign
Monday, June 27, 2005
Researchers: Metcalfe's Law overshoots the mark | CNET News.com
Which laws work and which don't. Researchers: Metcalfe's Law overshoots the mark | CNET News.com
Excite News: New Jack the Ripper theories put sleuths in a spin
I don't know why I've always been fascinated by the Jack the Ripper saga, but this is really interesting. I wonder if there's anything to the sailor story? Or, if J the R could be either a sailor or a surgeon, why not both? Didn't ships at the time have ship doctors? That could conveniently tie together these two theories. And I would imagine that the comings and goings of a ship's doctor would be better documented than a simple deck hand, as society has alwys been more interested in teh well-to-d0 and professional than the poor working class. Excite News
Rock the Vote
BBC Radio In Our Time A BBC Radio Show's opportunity to vote for the greatest philosopher of all time. I'm still looking for the Hamburglar. His "Robble Robble" has influenced generations of those who came after him. I, in fact, count that as a significatn influence on my life.That's why I'm always stealing Kim's french fries.
Sith Happens
When I walked into my office today, I saw the message "Sith Happens :-)" written neatly on my whiteboard. That's one of the reasons that I like to keep a whiteboard: it not only allows me to tell others where I am (when you're a department of one with a busy schedule and no secretary, that's invaluable), and it also provides some interesting reflections from the students.
Now, my formative years were in the 1980's. (I know, that explains a lot!) Back then, the expression was "Shit happens." I can go along with that. Shit happens, and if it doesn't, then there's a problem. We need to expect a certain amount of shit each day: it keeps us on our toes and keeps us regular, and thus helps our overall disposition, in the long run. Too much shit, of course, is not good, just like too much chocolate is not good. (I've never seen too much chocolate, though.)
< channel Yoda > But "Sith Happens," now, these are words for our day. Sith does not need to happen. Sith happens only from greed, impatience, and a lust for power, at some level. And Sith we need to fight against. We see Sith everywhere, especially in the current policies. And this Sith does not need to be, unlike Shit. THere is no acceptable amount of Sith. We must use our force to fight it.
< /channel Yoda >
Now, my formative years were in the 1980's. (I know, that explains a lot!) Back then, the expression was "Shit happens." I can go along with that. Shit happens, and if it doesn't, then there's a problem. We need to expect a certain amount of shit each day: it keeps us on our toes and keeps us regular, and thus helps our overall disposition, in the long run. Too much shit, of course, is not good, just like too much chocolate is not good. (I've never seen too much chocolate, though.)
< channel Yoda > But "Sith Happens," now, these are words for our day. Sith does not need to happen. Sith happens only from greed, impatience, and a lust for power, at some level. And Sith we need to fight against. We see Sith everywhere, especially in the current policies. And this Sith does not need to be, unlike Shit. THere is no acceptable amount of Sith. We must use our force to fight it.
< /channel Yoda >
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Shakespearean Insulter
For those times when you care enough to insult the very best way you can. Shakespearean Insulter
Friday, May 06, 2005
Change or Die
An interesting article that I'm going to have to read more of when I have more time. Change or Die
Monday, May 02, 2005
U B U W E B :: Dial-A-Poem Poets
This is pretty neat. Apparently in the early 1970's there was a Dial-A-Poem line (similar to Dial-a-Prayer, I guess). It's now archived and on the web for all to see and hear. Some pretty interesting things. Wish I had more time to listen to it, but maybe I will tonight. U B U W E B :: Dial-A-Poem Poets
Friday, April 29, 2005
Charleston Daily Mail: Blair Mountain Really Should be saved
The monst honest look at Appalachian history (or the lack thereof) that I've ever seen. I could have written this article myself. Charleston Daily Mail
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Cornell News: Slime-mold beetle named for Bush
Bush is finally having an impact on the scientific world that isn't an unqualified negative. Cornell News: Slime-mold beetle named for Bush
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Gun Safety...or Not...
And I thought I was having a rough day! Putfile - Upload Video and Upload Images
Thursday, March 17, 2005
The Parting Glass: Albums
The annotated Pogues lyrics. Many I had figured out on my own, like the reference to the Rime of the Ancient Mariner, but there are some good tidbits in here, like the lyrics to Galway Bay. I can't wait to peruse this more! The Parting Glass: Albums
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
I fought the law and I won
Googlefighting, the next step beyond googlewhacking. Actually, it's the opposite concept...you want your terms to have lots of hits. It's pretty cute. Amazing how people play with Internet toys. Google Fight : Make this fight with googleFight I VS the law
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Wired News: It's Just the 'internet' Now
Wired magazine has decided not to captialize Internet, Net, and Web. It'll take me a while to get used to it,a nd I wonder how quickly it will catch on. Most folks still spell the verb Xerox with a capital X. Wired News: It's Just the 'internet' Now
Wired News: Mac's Original Designer Dies
Let's have a moment of silence for one of the few Renaissance men of our time. Yet another creative man felled by pancreatic cancer like Uncle Gene. Wired News: Mac's Original Designer Dies
Monday, February 28, 2005
Googlewhackers: Two Words, One Hit | theledger.com
Googlewhacking. Sounds like something that George, Roman, and I would have done in the old days at WVNET. Coule be interesting. If I were still teaching English, I'd probably offer some extra credit for Googlewhacking. I may have to try it some time and see if I can get Susie to try. We would have a bunch of fun with that! Googlewhackers: Two Words, One Hit | theledger.com
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
RedNova News - Can This Black Box See Into the Future?
There are some really fascinating ideas in here...ideas that are a bit hard for some to swallow. But why are we so willing to believe that animals have this ability and we've lost it? I think there is something to this, but what I'm not sure.
RedNova News - Can This Black Box See Into the Future?
RedNova News - Can This Black Box See Into the Future?
On Bullshit
While it lasts...this is an interesting article. The New York Times > Books > Between Truth and Lies, An Unprintable Ubiquity
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Monday, January 10, 2005
20 Year Archive on Google Groups
History through the eyes of Usenet. 20 Year Archive on Google Groups
Thursday, January 06, 2005
National Weather Service Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service
Flood levels and implications in Marietta National Weather Service Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
Flood Musings
Well, the Ohio River is on its way to another flood, the third in less than a calendar year. It's amazing to me how people can put up with this time after time. I know that last fall's flood was atypical in a lot of ways, and this one will be a more typical flood. Just the fact that there is such a beast as a typical flood amazes me! At any rate, I'm certain that roads will be closed. Marietta floods at 38 feet; many streets are closed at 36. I'm not sure at what level the Williamstown Bridge floods.
I'm also astounded at the specialized knowledge that I've picked up since I've been here, without even reailzing it. It's not really transferable; it's not important to know that the Hermann Parking Lot takes on water at 40 feet, just above flood stage. But folks around here are resilient, and they put up with it flood after flood. Apparently flooding was much more prevalent before the addition of the lock and dam system. Debbie was saying today that it flooded every year, and that folks just dealt with it, much the same way that they deal with annual snow. People just learn to move their belongings upstairs, clean the downstairs really well, and start all over again. I admire them, as I don't think I could do that. But in a way, I guess I do. I found this apartment at the very last minute, and it was only pure dumb luck that it was out of the flood plain. And in Parkersburg, who apparently got tired of getting water in their homes and built the floodwall. I think the floodwall is the best thing about Parkersburg. Smartest idea this town ever had. I wonder what Grandma Saunders thought of the floodwall?
And after a while, even living as far from the river as I do, I'm starting to get a sense of the river. I guess that's not too surprising, since I cross it at least twice a day. As early as Monday, I started getting concerned about this flood, and praying for the rain to stop. I just had a feeling. The river also looks and feels different. I could tell that the river was rising, even though I've seen it much higher. The river seemed angry, reaching and grabbing at whatever it could find. When the river was receding, even though the level was higher than it was today, it had a different feeling. It seemed resentful and rather determined, like it was still trying to hold onto the land that it had just reclaimed. Both were quite different from the welcoming river that I've grown to love, the river that hoists barges on its back, that beckons to families to play, and that laughs when the sunlight hits it.
My cousin once said that she thought that a wildfire would be the worst of all possible disasters. I hope I never have either one, but I'd think that a flood would be worse in one way. When a fire ends, everything's gone. When a flood recedes, everything is ruined, and nothing can be done before the cleanup: no rebuilding, no planning, nothing. The only way in which I think a flood beats a wildfire is in the loss of life. You can see a river flood coming and at least get yourself out of the way.
So that's where it stands now. The river is now at 32.56 feet and rising. I'll report later on what tomorrow brings. No one has ever said that life was boring on the river!
I'm also astounded at the specialized knowledge that I've picked up since I've been here, without even reailzing it. It's not really transferable; it's not important to know that the Hermann Parking Lot takes on water at 40 feet, just above flood stage. But folks around here are resilient, and they put up with it flood after flood. Apparently flooding was much more prevalent before the addition of the lock and dam system. Debbie was saying today that it flooded every year, and that folks just dealt with it, much the same way that they deal with annual snow. People just learn to move their belongings upstairs, clean the downstairs really well, and start all over again. I admire them, as I don't think I could do that. But in a way, I guess I do. I found this apartment at the very last minute, and it was only pure dumb luck that it was out of the flood plain. And in Parkersburg, who apparently got tired of getting water in their homes and built the floodwall. I think the floodwall is the best thing about Parkersburg. Smartest idea this town ever had. I wonder what Grandma Saunders thought of the floodwall?
And after a while, even living as far from the river as I do, I'm starting to get a sense of the river. I guess that's not too surprising, since I cross it at least twice a day. As early as Monday, I started getting concerned about this flood, and praying for the rain to stop. I just had a feeling. The river also looks and feels different. I could tell that the river was rising, even though I've seen it much higher. The river seemed angry, reaching and grabbing at whatever it could find. When the river was receding, even though the level was higher than it was today, it had a different feeling. It seemed resentful and rather determined, like it was still trying to hold onto the land that it had just reclaimed. Both were quite different from the welcoming river that I've grown to love, the river that hoists barges on its back, that beckons to families to play, and that laughs when the sunlight hits it.
My cousin once said that she thought that a wildfire would be the worst of all possible disasters. I hope I never have either one, but I'd think that a flood would be worse in one way. When a fire ends, everything's gone. When a flood recedes, everything is ruined, and nothing can be done before the cleanup: no rebuilding, no planning, nothing. The only way in which I think a flood beats a wildfire is in the loss of life. You can see a river flood coming and at least get yourself out of the way.
So that's where it stands now. The river is now at 32.56 feet and rising. I'll report later on what tomorrow brings. No one has ever said that life was boring on the river!
Saddam Update
Just an update on a post from last summer, when you were introduced to Saddam the Crawdaddy.
Heedless of the wind and weather, Saddam still occupies the little hole outside my patio. I figured that he would certainly hibernate or migrate or something, but he's still there. Granted, it has been unseasonably warm (and wet), but I often see his little head poking out of his little crawdaddy hole. After a while, he started to grow on me, and I kinda like the guy now. I'd like to feed him this time of year, but I don't know what he eats. I know it certainly isn't turkey.
Heedless of the wind and weather, Saddam still occupies the little hole outside my patio. I figured that he would certainly hibernate or migrate or something, but he's still there. Granted, it has been unseasonably warm (and wet), but I often see his little head poking out of his little crawdaddy hole. After a while, he started to grow on me, and I kinda like the guy now. I'd like to feed him this time of year, but I don't know what he eats. I know it certainly isn't turkey.
Ohio River Flood Level
at the confluence of the Ohio and the Muskingum (close to the hotel) is reported at the bottom of the page. Welcome to the City of Marietta
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