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Sunday, August 31, 2003

STUDENTS OUT OF DORMS AND INTO HOUSES


The Miami Herald | 08/31/2003 | Students ditching dorms to buy houses

I have seen this some at ECU, the parents buy a house and the student takes in roommates. This can be cheaper and the interest is a tax savings. If all goes well, the house can be sold for a profit in the future. The lower interest rates have moved this along. I know one man with many children. He sent them all here and made them live in the house he bought. He had kids in school for ten years straight. Claimed it was a good investment in the long run.
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FLORIDA TRIES VIRTUAL LEARNING
CHILDREN AS YOUNG AS 5 WILL LEARN VIA THE INTERNET


The Miami Herald | 08/31/2003 | Pilot programs offer 'virtual' learning in Florida

Progress will be measured by teachers monitoring the computers. Some want to free up classroom space. I worry about socialization.
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UNIVERSITY NAMES REC CENTER AFTER ABBOTT & COSTELLO

Welcome to Reflector!

Montchair State in N.J. wanted to honor NJ natives. The adm said they polled the students about naming the building. I am shocked that they knew who Abbott & Costello were.
I thought they were great.
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MOVIE BUSINESS
REVENUE UP --TICKET SALES DOWN
COSTS UP


Welcome to Reflector!

Some are not worried that although revenue, as a whole, was up 2% this year over the record year of 2002, prices were up 4%. This means tickets were down. I think this should be a worry but maybe the article is right, if the trend continues then worry. The other trend is with sequels, costs are up to retain the cast but some did not perform as well as expected.
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SERVER SALES UP 17% IN UNITS VERY LITTLE IN REVENUE


Welcome to Reflector!

IBM takes the lead in the server market over HP. Units were up so someone is buying, but revenue did not move much over last year. Some experts say this means that IT spending is going toremain flat. I am not so sure, it could just mean that the market is maturing more than some thought. As the market matures, and Dell gets bigger, price comp. will naturally result.
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SOME SCHOOLS TO SERVE CARBONATED MILK


Gadsden Times


Milk with bubbles--so? It is the first I have heard of it. It might make some drink more milk.
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FIRST STARBUCKS IN NY CITY IS SET TO CLOSE!
THEY ARE CLOSING A STARBUCKS?? IS A THIS A SIGN OF THE ENDTIMES?

For a Latte Landmark, the Last Drop

The first one, opened 10 years ago, is closing. The lease was up and 3 more are close by. They ushered in a wave of other, upscale type, stores in the area.
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EXTRA POINTS WERE THE FIRST BY A WOMAN IN A DIVISION I GAME

Woman Scores in Division I Football Game

She is from New Mexico, we know she was not at Auburn--she scored
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CARBS AND SCIENCE


Dietary Experts Debate Carbohydrates

Nice article, with both sides quoted, about the science of different types of carbs. The heart association guy does come off looking a little silly, at least to me. Perhaps that is because I am doing the Atkins thing.
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Saturday, August 30, 2003

OLE MISS WINS
OK a 3 point win at Vandy is not really that much but we could have lost the game.

ESPN.com - NCF - Boxscore - Mississippi at Vanderbilt - 08/30/2003
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Not much for a while today.

I was up late last night and did not get up until 9 today. After a shower it is off to Lowes to get some tile training. No, I am not really handy, but I try.
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U.S. OPEN UPDATE
Roddick, Blake and El Aynaoui win.
It should start getting good now.



ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results
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Friday, August 29, 2003

SKI-DOO, SEA-DOO AND JOHNSON OUTBOARD TO BE SOLD


The Miami Herald | 08/28/2003 | Bombardier to sell its snowmobile, boat unit for $880 million
Article says they need to lower long term debt to maintain the commercial jet business. The founding family is getting 35% with a persion fund and Bain Capital out of Boston getting the rest.
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FORGET AUBURN-USC IT IS TENNIS TIME
Coetzer is out-- it had to happen, she is getting older-is still short and never has had a big shot, the 19 seed got her.
Blake advances, as does Shaughnessy, although the match is listed as in progress with a complete score.
Roddick, El Aynaoui and Hantucjhova in action some time today. Not all on the same court at the same time, however.


ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results
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IS TAILGATING OVER AS WE KNOW IT?
UGA bans most RV's from campus

Welcome to AJC!

This ought to rile them up in Athens. Citing a lack of parking spaces and increased demand, the administration banned most RV's. Some still get to park for $300 a year.
UGA better watch out, some of these people are the big and influential people. For my money, this should cause a real stink. It could not happen at a better place in the SEC, unless it was at LSU.
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DAIMLERCHRYSLER WANTS WORK RULES CHANGED


DCX wants right to move workers

DCX wants movement rules changed to move workers from classification to classification inside the plant. The current contract and the industry practice limits this. They also want the ability to move workers from plant to plant, often long distances.
These movements are the norm in Europe and Asia but not here. DCX might be in for a long fight but if they win the productivity gains could be great. This might even save lots of jobs in the long run.
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Thursday, August 28, 2003

Kmart STAYING ALIVE

Kmart Reports Second - Quarter Loss of $5M

While the loss is much less than last year there are still some troubling signs. Revenue was down and same store sales declined over 5%. Same store sales declines are not "a good thing".
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DOMESTIC PARTNERS BILL PASSES CA. SENATE


Welcome to the Mercury News on Bayarea.com

Most socio/cultural changes seem to come fro either coast and this one is big. The bill gives many "rights" held before by hetro couples. The article is not a good one, in that, it does not say of this has passed all hrudles before Davis will sign it. It seems to give rights in the area of property and such.
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INTERNET PENETRATION STUDY


The Miami Herald | 08/28/2003 | Study: Diverse group logs on in Southeast

I will not recount the whole thing but this might be of interest to those who stop by here.
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OK I will get back to working on the paper--but now I am hungry.
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BUSINESS RESPONDS TO LOW CARB DEMAND

Desire for trim waists spurs low-carb demand

I guess I caught the wave at the right time. Even since the middle of June when I started the Atkins thing, I have noticed more and more products in the local stores. Kroger carries a selection of Atkins brand products and Food Lion has added more low carb stuff. Article says that up to 30 million people might be carb counting. It is nice to have the extraselection but makes it harder for me to stay on the straight and narrow.
I passed the 25 pound wall and have hit it again at about 30. I bounce up and down. Too many options and I will take them all, that is probably why I am fat in the first place.

Seriously, if you are interested in Atkins, marketing or business strgy, the article is good.
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LOW CARB CHOCOLATE


New spin on diet chocolates
The newly repackaged diet chocolate is just that--repackaged. It is really the old stuff they have been selling for years. It is just marketed differently to appeal to the Atkins crowd. These candies contain a form of sugar that does not affect the blood levels and does not tend to break down carbs into fat. I was going overboard on these last week. I had to stop.
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DIET SLURPEE UPDATE

7-Eleven targets women with calorie-free Slurpee

Dieters and women are the target group for the diet pepsi slurpee. This could really help the 7-11 stores as the article says about 60% opf slurpee buyers also make another purchase, however it does not say if women and dieters are in the 60%.
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WOOHOO--WHERE IS MY CORKSCREW?

Chemical in red wine appears to extend life span

A Harvard med school study found that a chemical in red wine helped yeast and fruit flies fend off the effects of aging. Not being a yeast or fruit fly, I realize this might not apply to me. But I guess I need to be safe and have some wine.
There really might be something to this, at least I sure hope so.
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NEW RULING LETS CRUISE LINES BE SUED FOR QUALITY OF MEDICAL CARE

OrlandoSentinel.com:

I have never been but I bet many of you have. The issue of medical care on board has been brewing for years. There have been many charges of malpractice. The cruise lines say, as I understand it, that hey contract out the medical care and whatever happens is between you and the doc. They are out of it. That notion was negated in this ruling. This could make serious waves for the industry[sorry I had to do that]. It might raise the prices to cover liability or it just might make them get serious about the quality of care. That could also raise costs. Those of you who cruise keep me posted. My wife wants to take one next year. It is not at the top of my list, at least so far.
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WEEKI WACHEE MUST SHOW OWNERS THAT PLAN WILL LET IT SURVIVE


OrlandoSentinel.com: Tourism

That's right the place with the mermaids, seems to be on its last legs?/tail. whatever. The town bacially is the attraction and the owners are the local water district. This place has been around fro 57 years and was once a must stop. [we never did however] I think, the interstates and real theme parks put an end to it. It still draws some people but the overhead must be high. Not all old things can or derserve to continue.
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Blogging just might be more frequent tonight. I have reviewd the material for class tomorrow, the first real material they need to know. I am now back to working on the paper I have to get out. I hate to write introductions. I envy the skill of Prof. Reynolds and Prof. Volokh, they are good at this. Perhaps, I envy their work ethic even more.
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CONNECTICUT GETTING SHORT OF BLOOD


ctnow.com: CONNECTICUT

This is the second time this summer that this has happened there. I have noticed reports of other shortages across the nation. What is going on? Is this normal each summer? Some hospitals in CT are worried because of the labor day holiday. They are so short that one big traffic trauma could prove their undoing.
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FRENCHMEN OUT OF U.S. OPEN

ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results

No they did not surrender but Clement was up 2 sets to love and lost at one in the 5th. Still, I am sorry to see Grosjean and Clement out , as they are fun to watch.
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COMPUTERS CRASHED BEFORE BLACKOUT

Cleveland.com: Blackout of 2003
The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that First Energy did not see the buildup to the blackout, because critical computers were down. They are now trying to see if it was software or hard ware that caused the problem. Also it looks like another system warning did not do its job.
This needs looking into.
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Well, off for a while. I met my classes and talked with some advisees. I had lunch and now to get a haircut. The exciting life I live. No I have not finished the paper yet. It should be done by the end of the weekend.
Later
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FDNY TO TRANSFER SICK LEAVE "ABUSERS"

The Biggest Users of Sick Leave Face Transfer in Fire Department

Those being transfered are firfighters with 40 or more days used, each of the last 3 years. The reasons were for strains and such. They are being sent to less busy stations. In effect they are being given light duty. However, the article notes that this is taken as a punishment. The most busy stations are sought after. I
This is an interesting take on the FD. A good read.
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GATEWAY CONTINUES TO EVOLVE


Gateway Introducing Digital Cameras
I hope this works but they were late with the PDA. The prices do not look that bad, I wonder if they will work with my mac?
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Wednesday, August 27, 2003

MOTOROLA WILL SELL YOU RING TONES AT $2 A POP


The Miami Herald | 08/27/2003 | With Motorola, everyone's a DJ

I like to think I handle change OK. I tend, for a middle aged guy, to have a positive outlook about the future. However, a site to let you download designer ringtones is way too much for me tonight. I am done --going to read now.
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PANEL IN JAPAN CALLS FOR A CARBON TAX
To fight warming, an environmental panel has recommended a tax on fossil fuels. The proposed tax would in some way be based on carbon content levels.

The Japan Times Online

Keep alert, not all trends start on our coasts.
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APPARENTLY THE MEDICAL ACCREDITIATION PEOPLE MEANT WHAT THEY SAID

sunspot.net - education

The internal medicine residency program at Johs Hopkins had its certification withdrawn. It appears the main issue was failure to limit the hours worked per week by the residents. The limit is 80. Hopkins officals said they were surprised. I would be also, who would have thought that the independent board would actually stand by its rules. Some think Hopkins is being used as an example. This should scare the mess out of many programs around the country. I expect an article in our local paper in the next few days detailing how these type of hours do not happen here. I really do not think they do.
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ESPN REPORTS THAT COETZER COMES BACK TO WIN
Yes, into the third round for my favorite. Raymond gone in 3 sets.


ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results
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NASCAR TO CONTINUE WITHOUT PERMANENT SAFETY CREWS

Safer at home?

NASCAR uses local emergency crews at its races, unlike most other forms of motorsports.
This is continuing trend for NASCAR, a trend of stubbornness and even hubris. Some of the local crews are good and some are less than ideal. I wonder how NASCAR would like local instectors?

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NEW LOW FOR PERCENTAGE OF MALE TEACHERS
This seems to have been ttrending for a long time. I do not eant to sound reactionary but if the numbers were reversed, we would be having a national study and program.


TheCarolinaChannel.com - Education - Percentage Of Male Teachers Hits 40-Year Low
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U.S. OPEN UPDATE
Coetzer is behind to Schett and the number 12 and 18 women are gone already. On the men's side only the 30th seed lost today.

Blake plays the 27th seed tonight. In another tempting of fate I predict a Blake win. How many times can I be wrong?

ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results
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WOLFGANG PUCK EXPRESS?


ajc.com | Living | RECIPES FOR SUCCESS

and Bam--Wolfgang and Emeril are coming to Atlanta. Emeril is opening a fine dining place--no surprise there but maybe a trend. For the first time, at least on this scale, fine dining places are branding on a national stage. It used to be that perhaps you would have another location close by, but not now.
The other trend is one I mentioned in the first week of this blog. Upsacle fast food. All items in the wolfgang place are under $10. Who knows if we will buy it, well we already buy water by the bottle and loads of coffee.
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We started class today and are still doing schedule changes. On top of that I have a paper to finish. Blogging will be light, if at all during the daylight hours.
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Tuesday, August 26, 2003

IS CHINA GETTING WITH THE PROGRAM?


The Japan Times Online

They are about to start visa-less visits from Japan. Can stay up to 15 days. This is to be part of bilateral exchange. It sounds like a way to get Japanese money to me.
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THIS IS A NEAT ARTICLE ABOUT THE ECONOMICS OF THE SAKE INDUSTRY.
It does not cover the whole thing but focuses on the adding of alcohol to the rice based product.


The Japan Times Online
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WHY DID MR. POSSUM NOT TELL US ABOUT THIS.

al.com: News

Pinchgut Creek and portions of the Cahaba to be dredged. Trussville's mayor wants to dredge these two main waterways. The stated cause is flooding but I think other things are going on. If Alabama could pass a law, like in Mississippi, to allow riverboat gaming, then Trussville would be set. Ah, casinos on the Pinchgut. The Pinchgut Palace Casino. What a thought, all we need now is the ability to get the things in there.
Also, as I was reading the article, I wondered when silt became siltation.
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WELL AT LEAST THEY ARE LEARNING HOW TO DO SOMETHING


UA students sue over $1,000 tuition hike

Four U of Arizona students are sueing over a large tuition hike. They say it violates the constitution of the state which provides that educations should be as near to free as possible.
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HOW DOES YOUR TOWN DESTROY A BLACK BUSINESS DISTRICT?

The Miami Herald | 08/25/2003 | New parking rules stall Liberty City businesses

Miami seems to be using the approach of redevelopment and parking rules. Now, I will say tha some times redevelopment can work but may times it seems to result in displaced business that never make it back. The parking issue might be something else. The DOT says they need to extra width for overflow from the highway. The stores need customers.
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BUILDING INSPECTION FRAUD IN MIAMI-DADE

From the Miami Herald.com - Your Miami Everything Guide.

They suspect dozens if not hundreds of homes were not inspected at all. This could be scary at this time of year in the land of Andrew. We saw with that one that the new codes seemed to hold up. Now someone is making money by not inspecting.
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I HOPE I FIND SOMETHING INTERESTING TO BLOG ABOUT TONIGHT
I have the time. I am trying to edit some video for later in the semester and am putting it on my computer at home. Do you know how long it takes to download about 3.3 gigs form a dvd player. Espeically one using USB 1. I hope i live that long.
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ANDY vs. TIM ON NOW
WITH MY TRACK RECORD OF PREDICTIONS SO FAR, I WILL SHUT UP AND WATCH
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HOW DID AGASSI GET THIS FIRST ROUND MATCH. HE DREW ALEX CORRETJA
HE can be a real problem.



ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results
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BLAME THE CULTURE AT NASA


from the NYT

Panel Sees Dual Failures That Caused Columbia's Break-Up

Didn't you just have to know that the culture would be a problem. It was with Grissom, it was with Chanllenger and it had to be with Columbia.
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sorry for the lack of effort this morning. Students have been by for drop/add and jsut perhaps the last post explains it all.
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Monday, August 25, 2003

SEE I'M NOT REALLY LAZY
MY BRAIN IS NOT RIGHT


Lack Direction? Evaluate Your Brain's C.E.O.:


"You can be truly smart and still struggle in life if you lack the ability to plan, organize time and space, initiate projects and see them through to completion, and you cannot resist immediate temptations in favor of later better rewards."

They think a reason for this type of behavior might be found. Someone who understands this please explain it to me.


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DIRECT WINE SHIPMENTS
LEGAL OR NOT
thru the NTY


The Wine Wars

The groups in this dispute: winery and wholesaler, have tried to dress up the issues as ones of freedom and choice and states rights. However, in part it is one of who makes the money. Small sellers say they need the direct shipment to make a profit. Many distributors will not deal with the small winery. The middlemen are afraid off being put out of work. Federal courts are split on the issue and heavy weights are on both sides.
This is an interesting read, and is in the food section.

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GULF STATES STEEL GONE FOR GOOD


Gadsden Times

It is being sold to China. The plant has been making steel since 1904 and closed in 2000. Local blame for the closing falls mainly of international competition.
It was also not efficient and poorly positioned in the market-- I think. Still, it is sad to see the old plants go.
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FUTURE OF NFL EUROPE IN DOUBT


ESPN.com Clayton's Quick Hits

This developmental league has not really shown it can produce palyers. There are some exceptions but not many good ones come out it it. It might be useful as a sort of negative talent evaluation scheme. If they cannot perform in Europe, do not bring them to camp. this league must cost alot of money. The question becomes, how much do you spend waiting for a marke, for an alien game, to develop? I don't know, perhaps we can ask the U.S. pro soccer leagues.
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GROSJEAN OUT--ALSO 17TH SEED GONE

This could be an interesting first week. Although, in my opinion, once you get past the first few men in the draw, the talent level is pretty equal way down the rankings.

ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results
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PUBLIX CLOSES INTERNET OPERATION
While some places have had success with internet shopping for food, many others have failed. Perhaps we are not ready for this yet. It could be useful in the future ans it will keep some people off the road and old drivers away from the farmer's market.


ajc.com | Business | Publix ends online unit
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TED TURNER OPENS 4TH BISON BURGER PLACE
Is the rest of the country yelling for bison burgers?
Is this going to be a trend or is it mainly an Atlanta thing? They did mention a place in Ohio.
Let me see --associate a food with Atlanta, after the peach it might as well be the bison.


ajc.com | Business | Ted's bison burgers hit downtown today
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GROSJEAN GOES TO 5TH SET
It should not have been that difficult for him, he is the 9th seed.


ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results
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OK SO MY FIRST PREDICTION SUCKED

Rubin out in the first round--she was beat 4 & 4
Kucera won today--someone explain to me why he does not win more. When he was playing well a few years ago, he looked great.

ESPN.com - TENNIS - Results


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NEW PLANNING AND DESIGN CENTER IN B"HAM

al.com: Business
This looks like a good group of people. The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham, Region 2020 and the Auburn University Center for Architecture have joined for this project. Located in a remodeled downtown building, this center might become a force for change, or not. What is the role of Architecture in social and cultural change.

Terry--you are on.
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THE CHANGING CREDIT CARD INDUSTRY


AP thru the NYT
Visa: New Technology Changing Industry

A short piece on some of the problems in the industry-- legal issues-- and at the bottom a discussion about how the industry is changing. The head of VISA USA, gives some opinions about the future and becoming an electronic payments company, not just credit.
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U.S. OPEN

Matches start today at 11. Chandra Rubin should be through to the second round.


ESPN.com - US Open 2003
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Sunday, August 24, 2003

WARNING--TENNIS BLOGGING AHEAD

THE U.S. OPEN STARTS MONDAY

Tennis blogging will start tomorrow.
You have been warned.
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DOT-COMMERS READJUST TO CORP. LIFE

Former Dot-Commers Are Adjusting, Painfully

Interesting piece in the NYT about the dot-commers getting back into the business world. Very much culture change going on here. If you are interested in organizational culture, this is a good read.
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THE TEN COMMANDMENTS THING—IS THIS THE START OF AN NEW EVANGELICAL MILITANCY?

Link to the Birmingham News

I am not sure if this might not extend to other symbols and issues. For years now, some Christians have felt that the constitution has been used against them.

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U.S. CHEESE CONSUMPTION UP
HAS BEEN FOR YEARS


Newsday.com - Avg. American Eats 30 Lbs. Cheese a Year

Might be pizza or just getting better cheeses. I lay it off to more people doing Atkins.
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Blogging will be spotty at best the rest of today and tomorrow. We start the start of school meetings Monday. Tuesday should be better, as we are there all day for late registration. Maybe something later tonight but not really much in the news that I see as signs of change or that are interesting.
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STATES CUTTING FUNDING FOR 4-H
Mass. trying to cut it all.

Boston.com / News
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INCENTIVE PAY PLAN FOR DENVER TEACHERS?

DenverPost.com

I was hoping for a good description of the plan but it mainly seems to be one where opinion is just under the surface. It seems to talk more about how to pay for the plan, rather than what it might accomplish.
At least Denver is thinking about it.
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HERE IS SOMETHING YOU DO NOT SEE OFTEN
A woman dies in a sidecar accident. Not really a sign of change but the oddity of this is a result of many changes in transportation over the years.

DenverPost.com
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Saturday, August 23, 2003

FIRST FOX NOW Abercrombie & Fitch


Sun-Sentinel: Business

Fox said it ownedma "fair and balanced"; now Abercrombie & Fitch says it owns "22". Another company, American Eagle Outfitters, put out a brand that looks like Abercrombie & Fitch's Hollister brand. Hollister has been putting the number 22 on its line, but failed to trademark it. It is now being copied.

I hope Lewin's people do not sue over unfreezing.
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WE SHOULD EXPECT MORE OF THIS


The Miami Herald | 08/23/2003 | Threat motive to bash boss?

The accused was fired and tried to get back at his superviser. He took his bosses email account and password and sent the email threatening the president. Just another way to get back at people.
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ABBOTT TO SPIN OFF SLOW GROWTH PART OF BUSINESS
from the Philly Inquirer


Philadelphia Inquirer | 08/23/2003 | Abbott to spin off hospital-products work

In a typical move Abbott will spin off part of business, accounting for about 10% of revenue. The hospital products segment is not growing fast and although unstated is probably in steong competition.
Probably this is a good move. The new company can try and cut costs and stay up with rivals and regain focus on their core business. Abbott can move on to greater growth segments and not worry about the spin off. Companies in low growth segments can be very profitable but do need clear management attention. I hope this works.
Essentially what Abbott is saying is that the resources and time we are devoting to these production should give us a better return elsewhere.
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CONTROLLERS UPDATE

Remember two other articles, Atlanta and Miami, well not from the HoustonChronicle.com - Air traffic controllers fighting privatization.

This is on the AP wire and not localized as were the other stories. I guess the story is OK but it is not breaking as much a seeping across the nation. This one adds the political spin of "house democrats will oppose".
Again, I have not really studied the issue but the union PR machine is on a slow roll with all these stories.
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FORGET BUSINESS THE FUTURE OF CITIES IS IN THE NON-PROFITS

San Francisco Examiner

Or so says the city treasurer and cnadidate for mayor. She wants more parternerships with non-profits and streamlines rules for starting them. While they might be important, they cannot create the types of jobs tha a business can.

Is S.F. to be the future city, no business but government workers, i guess government programs and non-profits. Sounds great to me.
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THIS IS NEW TO ME
ADS ON COUNTY TRUCKS

St. Cloud Times Online - Local
The parks dept. already has approved this for their trucks and now they want ads on the garbage trucks.

Well, I suppose if you can sell ads on the bus why not on the garbage truck. When does this stop? School buses or police cars?

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LET ME SAY THIS TO THE PCRM--SCREW OFF--HEALTH NAZIS

TheCarolinaChannel.com - Health - Medical Group Urges Hospitals To Ban Atkins Diet

Is this the Nader group or just another bunch of people who like telling the rest of us how to live? I have lost almost 30 pounds since mid June on this diet. It was the easiest diet I have been on. Possible bad side effects vs. me walking around with 30 extra pounds. It seems the only way of losing they approve of is whatever they advocate at the moment.
Groups like this have a lot of ego and professional pride invested in their way of doing things. Let them leave me alone. They can use the time to attack fast food or something.

Just went and checked the PCRM website PCRM >> News and Media Center >> PCRM news releases They are pro vegan, against Atkins and against animal testing. This group also seems to be providing some of the "expert" opinion in the fast food battles. Seems like they put out many press releases that start with “ Doctors say” or Experts say”. Maybe they do some research but they have the look of a fringe group that gets a lot of publicity.



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Friday, August 22, 2003

GAYBISHOP UPDATE

AP article thru NYT
Gay Episcopalian Bishop Still Opposed

Some parish vestrys are trying to show displeasure with the general convention vote by withholding money to the diocese or the natiuonal church. At present it looks isolated but might grow. One diocese is going to withhold its pledge to national church. If this movement grows or turns into one of leaving the church, a bitter fight will be on the way.
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Thursday, August 21, 2003

WOO HOO DIET PEPSI SLURPEES


OrlandoSentinel.com: Science

7-Eleven Inc., which produces slurpees and icees, wanted a diet version. Sugar subs do not act right at low temps. 7/11 told Pepsi and Coke to give it a try and Pepsi did it. Read about the combination of sugar subs and the temp adjustments needed to make it work.
I will try one--I hope they get here soon.
No word on the calorie or carb count.
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SOMEONE IS TRYING TO SAVE THE FLOPPIES


The Miami Herald | 08/19/2003 | The old floppy may be down, but it's not out

This article even makes a virtue out of the small amount of storage. I have only used a floppy maybe two times in the last year. My mac and my tablet PC do not even come with them --even as externals. Most of my students now use zips or jsut email stuff to each other.
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AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS GETTING THEIR MESSAGE OUT


The Miami Herald | 08/21/2003 | Privatizing towers opposed

Yesterday I blogger an article from Atlanta about the possibility of privatizing air traffic control. I commented that this looked like PR from the union. It really looks like it now. This article talks about the situation in South Florida.

\Just because it might be PR does not mean that is cannot also be right.
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WHEN DOES FAITH BECOME WISHFUL THINKING OR OBSESSION?


The Miami Herald | 08/21/2003 | Woman in right-to-die battle leaves hospital

I feel for the parents of the woman. She has been in a persistent vegetative state since 1990. Her husband says she would not have anted to live like this and he wants to withhold food and let her die. Her parents think she could be rehabbed.
There is no good result that I can see. Sometimes medical technology might not be a blessing.

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INTERESTING STUFF ON TEACHING TECHNOLOGY


WRAL.com - Family - Interactive Teaching Device Clicks With Students

This stuff looks cool. Could this be a real break through for tech in the classroom.
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IS THERE ANY OTHER KIND?


WRAL.com - News - Two Durham Men Charged With Malicious Castration


Police think this might be a gang related shooting.
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THIS SEEMS TO BE A TREND EVERYWHERE

Harry Potter Sales Fuel Barnes & Noble 2Q

MAny businesses now only seem to make "real" money off the big hits. IT seems like more are becoming like the movie industry. Lose or break even on many things and then hit a home run. Itis a dangerous way to live.
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DOMINO PLANT TO END REFINING

Domino Sugar Plant Plans to End Refining: "Domino Sugar Plant Plans to End Refining"

A New York , landmark plant is going to stop refining sugar. They will continue to bag however. Current owner, American Sugar, said that they have excess capacity for the current market.
Sorry, once I started to lose weight, I knew that the sugar and snack food industry would have problems. I think a frito-lay plant has let the 3rd shift go.
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KRISPY KREME NET INCOME UP

Krispy Kreme 2Q Net Income Rises 47 Pct.

They continue to do well despite my diet. If I was not doing the Atkins plan, just think how high the earnings would have been. I do wish the report had mentioned the same store sales figures. We do not really know how much of this is due to expansion and how much from ongoing operations.
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SNIPER BACK IN ACTION?

Police Investigate More Reports of Shots

After a few days off and some spectulation that this was not a sniper, he might have tried again.
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MAN DIES LAUGHING IN SLEEP

registration required AP-thru NYTThai Man Dies While Laughing in Sleep

Perhaps he was dreaming about the Monty Python joke weapon bit.
Who knows what was going on--it was a strange bit of news to make the AP wire.
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ACTUALLY AT WORK

I might get some real work and/or blogging done this morning. We start class next week and I am in doing some last minute things. Also, preping for a meeting of the Family Support Network or Eastern North Carolina. Should be a good meeting if the board chair does not screw up--that would be me.
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Wednesday, August 20, 2003

CHANGES AT THE ATLANTA PD

ajc.com | Atlanta/South Metro | Police force realignment wins praise

They appear to be a mixture of structural, getting detectives back to zone [ precinct ] work, and personnel moves. There did seem to be several retirements.
On the surface it looks good. The Chief took about a year to study and make the moves. The move to emphasizing zones would appear to be a good one. This would put people in contact with the local area and make them familiar with it. However, I assume there is someone coordinating at the top to catch those criminals who do not follow the zone maps. I do hope this year was also spent getting the organization ready for these changes.

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MARTA DIPPING INTO RESERVES

ajc.com | Metro | MARTA plunges deep in reserves

Marta dipped into reserves to make up for declining revenue fro fares and its biggest source –a local 1% sales tax. Apparently, the sales tax revenue is off because of the economy.

It is interesting that while MARTA might be a good thing for metro Atlanta, its largest source of revenue is not from operations. I guess the tax funded subsidy might be a good thing as it keeps more cars off the road.

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FAA MIGHT PRIVATIZE CONTROLLERS AT SOME GENERAL AVIATION AIRPORTS

ajc.com | Business | Controllers fear big change

This is not for the airports that handle commercial traffic, though some business traffic goes through them. Language in FAA budget bill would let the towers at 69 airports become privatized. The FAA says this might save over $750,000 per tower.

This article while interesting on the proposed changes smacks a little as a controllers attempt to mold public opinion, in the Atlanta area.

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FOOD CHAINS TRY SOME MANAGER OWNERSHIP

ajc.com | Business | A portion of the action

Nice bit about some national chains trying to get managers to stay longer and become more involved. It seems that they have finally decided that service is very important and not just having a manager work long hours and cutting costs. Most of those mentioned seem to be steakhouses, where repeat business is important. I think the classification is casual dining.

These places are not like the quick serve places that charge low prices, they can hit you for a bundle. If memory serves, the main group going to places like this, at least during the week, are the over 45 set. They demand good service and will reward it with repeat business. Employees will not provide good service unless it is taught and modeled to them. Thus attempting to attract committed managers is a must.

Sorry, we start class next week and I am just getting back into long winded mode.

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Son off in the car

Well, my son is off to pick up his Mom from work. I remember when I turned 16. My father promptly forgot where the grocery store was. When I turned 21, he forgot his way to the ABC store. Ah my own personal gofer.

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I promise i am really going to get that shower now.
Back soon.
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WHERE DID MISS JANIS REALLY GO?

registration required--AP thru NYT
Women Try to Smuggle 420 Parrots

Hmmmmmm
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SNIPER UPDATE

The AP is reporting through the NYT that two of the West Virginia killings might be drug related. This leaves the other death as a mistake or a crazed gunman just getting started.

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BACK UP THE TRUCK

The NYTimes and Drudge are reporting tha the Supreme Court refused to block the removal of the ten commandments from building in Montgomery.
Y'all need to help the justice pack up now. Those things looked heavy.
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It is raining again in Greenville, well actually between Greenville and Winterville. God this is blogging at its dullest. The only point of this is that we have had rain about 17 of the last 20 days. I may never dry out.
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Like this is news in a college town

Article in the local paper the Daily Reflector about the students coming back and the traffic getting worse. This happens every year. Around here we learn that you do not go to the discount chains or the fast food places the weekend before school starts back.

However, the real road danger might be my son. He got his license today. Watch out Pitt county.
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Sorry for the lack of stuff--for those dropping by
I was out playing golf--better than last time but still do not ask
after a shower I will be back later.
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Tuesday, August 19, 2003

MARRIED RC PRIESTS-NOW THAT WOULD BE A CHANGE

Wisconsin Priests Sign Celibacy Letter

140 priests in Wisconsin sent out a letter to other priests trying to start a discussion about married clergy. Personally, I do not think that this will do much as long as John Paul II is in control.


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LAYOFFS AT COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

Welcome to Reflector!

Colonial Williamsburg is probably going to reduce staff. they say it is because of the economy an tourism patterns. Are we getting more interested in theme parks and not history? Probably we are. Also, much of what is demonstrated at Williamsburg can now be found on the history channel and on the web. The younger generation might not be as likely to find this type of stuff interesting. I know my son does not.
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HOME DEPOT EARNINGS UP

Welcome to Reflector!

Home Depot did well this last quarter; revenue and profits are up. Lowes is doing well also. It looks like the competition is heloing both of them. One must wonder what this is doing to the smaller chains and the local hardware stores.
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BOMBING AT UN HEADQUARTERS IN BAGHDAD


The New York Times on the Web

Looks like it took out the entire building.
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MEDIA CONCENTRATION

Welcome to Reflector!

FCC chairman says he will look at media concentration rules. Some in congress are worried that big media will own too much and dominate the news. Does this really reflect the new reality of how people get news? Are we trying to impose an old paradigm on the present and the future?
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Monday, August 18, 2003

SI curse dead? Madden curse going strong.

ajc.com | Falcons | Is there a Madden curse?

Now this is a trend, 4th year that the cover of Madden game has a bad year. Well, really one is kind of weak, the others seem to be a REAL CURSE.
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Al Qaida says it caused the blackout


World Tribune.com--Front Page

Read the article, they may well have done it. However, it is mighty convenient timing for them. All they have to do is wait a couple of days when there is some confusion on the cause.

No definite word yet, but hints that they are also responsible for Gigli.
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More blackout

J. Bowen at No Watermelons Allowed, has some information on why nuclear power plants were shut down during the blackout.
Also check the site, it has lots of neat stuff about generators and power. Most of which I can only understand because he explains things well.

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Heart pump

From the Gadsden Times and the AP, a neat article on the newest generation of heart pumps. Some patients are even going home while waiting for a transplant. The docs hope that eventually this type of pump could end the need for transplants for many patients. At present there are about twice as many people waiting as here are donor hearts each year.

This version fits in the heart and works with it, not replacing it.

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Competition in the salon business

From The Miami Herald | 08/18/2003 | As salon saturation nears, owners find ways to improve what they do.

Apparently, competition is tough in this business, at least in Miami. Following the usual path, not competing on price, these high market companies are enhancing services. Longer hours and extras are being used to attract and keep customers.

This sounds like a typical way to do things and differentiate your company in an increasingly crowded market. The problem here is that it sounds like none of these things are difficult to copy. So, if one of the extras works, all will be able to do it. Then you are back where you started but with a higher cost structure of doing business. I doubt if we get a follow up to this story but it would be nice to check back in about a year.

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Triple E on the rise

al.com: NewsFlash

Cases of EEE are on the rise among the horse population and among humans also. EEE is more deadly than west nile and is out there in record numbers this year. A good sign is that it seems to be slowing down in Florida.

Do we really have more cases or are we just looking harder than in past years?

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Alabama State Troopers to resume drug testing

al.com: NewsFlash

They had done this in the past and stopped because of budget concerns. Also, in the past nothing turned up. This might be a good idea as it adds to public confidence. The director is new and perhaps needs to show that something is getting done.
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Sunday, August 17, 2003

the quest
Well, the nap was short and the the search for Atkins stuff. Kroger and WalMArt had different things. Found lots of Atkins product at Kroger, especially the "ice cream". Did not buy it; will try and wait. It was hot here and we had to go to other places.
WalMArt had some low carb bars and other stuff. Got some of that. I just wanted something sweet after my steak.
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Nothing much for now

After a long day at church; not as long as Mr. Possum, he goes back tonight, I am going to take a nap. Then, I shall go off on an exciting trip to various food stores. I will be tracking down the rare Atlins' products. Kroger has some but there is talk that WalMart has the ice cream. The munchies are a terrible thing. Be glad I do not have a web cam.
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West Virginia sniper


Link to the Sunday Charleston Gazette - Top Stories but not much more information. One story does report that the suspect is a large white male.


Link to the Charleston Daily Mail they do not really have much either. When you get stories on the number of tips and how people are reacting; you tend to get the feeling that the police are keeping the lid on. It does give some info from a press conference.
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Blackout effects on production

The Cincinnati Post - News from the AP

This story reports on the number of auto plants shut down because of the blackout. Says it should not have big effect on availability of cars as there was a large inventory.

My concern is for the other plants that made parts of auto and other industries. I do not know if this affected production enough to mess up others JIT programs. The duration was short in most places.

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West Virginia sniper

Nothing much must be going on in the case. This story from The Cincinnati Post - News from the AP has some info but mainly background. Police are not ready to say the cases are linked. Right!
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fan update

Well the fan got put up and works fine. I loved the old design with a separate housing; it was easier. I planned on putting the old light fixture on the new fan but it is way small.
I spent most of the night at the office waiting for a dvd to burn. I am putting some old home vids on dvd. It took hours. I used the time to prepare some for class, we start in about a week, and to finish a mystery. I have not read any fiction in a long time.

Is this boring enough-- I will be back to scanning the web of possible trends and changes tomorrow.
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Saturday, August 16, 2003

More of Robinson

News

A summary of editorial opinion from the Episcopal News Service
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no blogging for a while

I will be putting up a fan so nothing for a while. I do not know which will take longer --the fan or getting my son to help. It is a replacement for his room, so it should go fast. That is if he will help.

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now this is a real change

sunspot.net - movies & video

We have become used to computer generated images in movies but this is new to me. Apparently some of the crowds in Seabiscuit were inflatable dolls. No, not that kind. A real extra can cost $200 a day so dreamworks came up with this. Apprantly, much better than cutouts and they store easily. Because the dummies need some real people to make it look good, this is said to actually increase the hiring of extras over computer generation.
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Outsourcing in the St. Louis schools

STLtoday - News - Story
No not the teachers but rather the supplies. The apparent motive is better service.

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heritage

The Miami Herald | 08/15/2003 | Knowing my past provides quiet joy

This is a very interesting Leonard Pitts piece. He describes a company that uses DNA tests to help African-Americans determine where they came from. I had not thought of it before but most white people have some idea of our heritage. We know more than just european. However, most African-Americans apparently do not. I think I would want to know and somebody has started a company to do that and make money at it.

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More Miami radio news

from the The Miami Herald | 08/14/2003 | Haitian radio station fights for survival
Haitian radio station wants to buy signal but asking price is 12.5 mil. Radio has plenty of niche markets, it is the nature of the business. What I found really interesting is that the Haitian market was compared in size to Des Moines. Not being from Miami, I had no idea it was that large. The article does not give any wifures on the demographics but does not that there are some large companies buying ads and that ad revenue is up 48%
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Sniper 2003

The Beaufort Gazette: Killer sought in 3 separate West Virginia shootings
Is this the start of another sniper episode? Will the fact that it is in West Virginia play it down? did it get covered up by the blackout? Only time will tell on any of these questions-I will keep looking for items.
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Friday, August 15, 2003

country music

The Beaufort Gazette: Country music executives counting on late-year sales

Yes I am a fan. Interesting peice about how country sales are down this year but doing better than some other forms of music. It was predicted, a few years ago, that the bloom was off the country rose. However, sales have remained strong.
I wonder it country is not as liabile to be downloaded? Artilce says perhaps becuse of its demographic--no not stupid but older.
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Update
The Beaufort Gazette: Many warned Congress, White House grid was going to fail
A report, after 9/11, details problems with the grid. States no major improvements, by the state of NY, since the 1970's.


Kerry blasts Bush on blackout.

NYT[registration required] Democratic Hopefuls Rip Bush on Blackout AP story says Sen. Kerry says baicallly that Bush caused blackout by spending on the taxcut and not on the grid. IS this guy an idiot. The grid cannot or will not be upgraded in 2 years. It has been on the edge for years. I suppose Bush caused the lightening also. Gee what a dolt.

Sorry i promised myself I would do not political blogging but when I see something so stupid as this I cannot let it pass.
I promise no more until some body, fromeither party, is this crass again.
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I am back.

I think i said I was going to play golf. I would not call what i played golf. On the other hand it was very hot and humid. All in all a really great day. I might do some stuff tonight.
Hope your day was good.

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Friday

I hope there will be no blogging for most of the day. This will mean that I am finally able to go and play golf. I have been trying to play (well my game is often trying) for the last few days. The weather and other things keep getting in the way. Friday, with any luck will be the day. I will tell you about it if I do OK, most likely you will hear nothing.

Later
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Thursday, August 14, 2003

Queer Eye for the Straight Guy

I was watching the football game and also scanning the channels when I noticed that our local station is not carrying Queer Eye. I have never seen it but a computer training infomercial? Really, are we that backward?

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Nice take in the NYT on minority wine makers
Minority Wine in . This might work right nowCalifornia
I hope they make it but now might not be the best time to be a wine maker. One person mentioned in the article buys grapes; this might work right now as I had read that there were way too many grapes out there.
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interview with Robinson

Whosoever: Bishop-elect Robinson shares his spiritual journey
This appears to be an interview with Gene robinson, done between his election and general convention. All in all, a very good interview. He talks not only of the controversy but of his faith and beliefs. The interview was done by the Episcopal News Service and I recommend it to all who are interested in his election, pro or con.
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More Bishop to be Robinson
The Foster group of papers has a Robinson page. It was last updated about a week ago, I do not know this group of papers but it appears to be New England oriented. The site looks to be comprehensive, up to the time of general convention.

Bishop Page
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AM radio niche markets

The Miami Herald | 08/14/2003 | Radio Unica weighing its recap options

Is AM dead? AM radio has become the talk niche but apparently not for Spanish talk radio. Group out of south florida is not in good shape with its 14 owned stations and other network boradcasts.
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cell phone switching costs

The Miami Herald | 08/14/2003 | Cell firms may win with switching fee

New federal rules to let cell customers keep their numbers when they switch companies, might have a money cost. A real switching cost used to be having to get a new number. This made some people less likely to change cell providers for small cost differences. The new rules would allow people to switch with a small monthly fee. People will not like it but it will be cheaper, for some, than changing numbers.
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More blackout

Nice little article from the Miami Herald.com - Your Miami Everything Guide about how power grids work.
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I might as well too.
Power failure

Registration required for the NYT story Transportation Systems Disrupted; No Initial Sign of Terrorism, Officials Say

Experts in the field, have been saying for a long time that we were getting to the edge with the power supply. Meanwhile, the anti groups: environmentalists and NIMBY people have retarded the growth in power plants. They have stopped some projects and raised the costs of all of them. We should expect more of this in the years to come.

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What a surprise!

A thunder storm in Pitt county. This time, with really big rain drops. In the last two weeks we have had over a foot of rain.
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after the split

A church in our diocese tried to leave and take the accounts and the building. The courts made them give the church back. There was a big todo last night, in Morehead City, to celebrate. Wish i could have been there.
You might have to scroll down a little to get the stories.
Episcopal Diocese of East Carolina
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There will be no blogging for a while. I must go to the store and then start writing an article. The stat work is finished but i hate to write.
Also, i might just celebrate the inclusion into the Axis of Weevil with a nap.

bye for a few hours
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Atlanta keeps growing.

ajc.com | Metro | ARC population growth report

Atlanta metro population grows by 80,000 in last 3 years. Most appear to be folks waiting at the airport.
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Michigan court strikes down public school fee

State rules against fee at schools

The activity fee of $35 dollars was to be used for clubs and such. Are more and more schools resorting to fees, in this time of budget cuts? The administrators are hoping people will pay the fee even though it cannot be required. Fees can get out of hand, in some places college fees are greater than tuition.
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gun suits going down

Suits over gun harm erased in Michigan

It seems all of the 30 or so suits have been lost by the cities and counties. This looks like a trend, even to my eye. I do not think they will stop unless suits against fast food looks likeeasier money.
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Dove hunting in Michigan

Lawmaker to revive bill on hunting doves
Apprently this is part of a long battle to get dove hunting in the state and they call themselves civilized?
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Axis of Weevil

The Exalted Possum has made a mistake. I know this is unthinkable but true. He has decided to accept me as a member of the Axis of Weevil. I got full membership too, with all rights and stuff. I wonder what those are?
You other members might want to consider a recall; too much power in one man’s hands might not be a good thing. Arnold could take over; he would qualify if he only had a blog.

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Your own ATM

People steal whole ATM machine.
WRAL.com - News - Thief Steals ATM From Crown Coliseum Concourse
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Flash mobs in Brazil

again NYT-AP[registration required]Brazilians Pound the Pavement
Strange flash mob in Sao Paulo. If you are not familiar with flash mobs, the article explains.
Could we do virtual flash mobs on peoples comments?


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Someone's PR people are working hard.

Link through the NYT[registration required]
French Vintners Forecast Exceptional Year
Perhaps this summer heat will cause a great harvest but the real hard work was to get this in a AP story. With sales of French wine down in the U.S., a trend in itself, anything to get us to think wine think France, is a good move.
I would buy more French wines, but very few come with the handy twist-off cap.
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The man from Sears just called. The computers showed our dishwasher was here. He went to get it at about 8:15 for my 8:30 appointment. Yes that would have left enough time. After looking, it was determined that it was on the Wilson loading dock. That is about 40 miles away. Now, I have to wait until Tuesday.
I now have a choice, blogging or back to bed. Only time will tell.
Later
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Waiting

I am here this morning at home, waiting for Sears to bring the new dishwasher. Yes they are going to put it in, as I have few skills in that area. After that, I hope to play golf. The courses should be dry today. It only rained once yesterday.
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Maker of Savane men’s pants in trouble.

Read the article:
Business: Tropical sacks top management
But firings are not usually the sign of progress. They usually indicate a crisis or coming one, short term solutions to long term problems and perhaps panic. Only time will tell but we should know something soon.

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CART is in trouble.

The split between CART and the IRL, years ago, left both weakened. It seems that CART’s problems are getting worse. It has no premier event like the 500 to bail it out. Attendance has been down, as have the number of entries in races. It is an expensive series with great reliance on costly technology. Also, we seem to want to see American drivers and CART has no American stars. The article points to some problems mostly financial. The real back-breaker is the statement that they cannot expect positive cash flow, much less earnings, for a few years. Speculation is that a group of owners will take the company private.
Business: Auto racing circuit posts big loss

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Wednesday, August 13, 2003

A sign – a trend?
Who cares, it is barbeque .


Article in the NY Times about barbeque in New York state. Roadside ribs—m mmmmm. Sounds good—a nice short piece.
A Memphis Aroma, Wafting Upstate

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Penthouse files chapter 11
You cannot make money with dirty pictures anymore.

Apparently not with really dirty pictures, not when you have to compete with the internet. Penthouse forgot to serve its niche. As circulation dropped they went to harder pornography, which only served to drive off more readers.
Did they forget they were selling a life style and not just pictures? Or perhaps, they did not age with their readership, or stay well entrenched with their main demographic. Most likely, others further segmented their market segment. Hard core took some and other mags like Maxim took the others.
Registration required for this AP link thru the NY Times-Penthouse Publisher Files for Chapter 11

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Gateway, your electronic everything source??


Gateway, have a hard time making it in the commodity like PC market, seems ready to jump into more commodity like markets. Companies that do not introduce product or significantly innovate, are doomed to playing in the crowded end of the pool. Does Gateway have the marketing savvy to make it? Do they have the production operations to keep prices low? How is their reliability and service? All of this used to be good, but is it enough now, to enter these new markets?
Link is through the NY Times [registration required}Gateway Delays Launch of Handhelds

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An end to campus speech codes? Maybe.

The Dept. of Educations clarifies its statement on speech codes. Only time will tell how colleges respond and how some try to get around the regulations.
Welcome to Reflector!
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Bore blogging time

Well after a day of getting nothing accomplished, it is off to another meeting. This time it is a discernment committee meeting at the church. This is the first time I have been on the committee side of this process. Helping someone to see if a call to ministry is the “real thing” is difficult at best. However, I do think this is going well. Perhaps more stupid signs of change later tonight.

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changes everywhere

East Carolina University AD gets new job. A new football coach starts this year and now a search for a new A.D.

Gadsden Times
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Update of McDonald’s
Maybe this link will work?

Yesterday, I posted something about a new upscale McD’s and the link went bad. This one should be good and includes some analysis of whether this concept might work. Interesting, could this be a real trend or a flaming failure?
Philadelphia Inquirer | 08/13/2003 | Fast-food icon will jazz up its offerings

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The courses were still too wet, so back to some blogging.

Local Greenville NC reaction to Robinson.

This article in the Greenville Daily Reflector, quotes our bishop and two local priests. I know them all, very well. None seem to think the local churches will split because of the vote. The bishop talks about the place of scripture in the process. All in all, a good job, and local to me. Check it out--

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Posting will be light tomorrow, depending on the condition of the golf course. We have had way too much rain here lately (over 12 in. in the last 10 days). I plan on playing in the morning. I have a meeting in the afternoon and another at night. I hope to be back having fun after my last meeting.
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Did you think I had forgotten?

More on Robinson. This time, collected by “gay-news blog”. This appears to mainly be a collection of news reports.
gay news blog

In particular, this article from the WSJ caught my eye. It talks about the issue and how the church might avoid splitting over it. The whole thing is printed here.
gay news blog

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Tuesday, August 12, 2003

change is great but in the church?? And certainly not in the service

A blog with some suggestions of moving beyond the worship service,.
He maintains, if I am reading it right, that the basic form of worship is old and perhaps no longer functional in a modern world. Cannot say that I really agree but he does make a point or two. Worth a quick read if you are really into your church. The idea of other forms of “doing church” is interesting to talk about.
Radical Congruency | Justin Baeder's Blog

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you are not alone--ever

newsobserver.com - Mississippi school district puts Webcams in classrooms

We now have webcams in the classroom, traffic cams at intersections and police cams in England. Couple this with complete wireless coverage and can we ever be alone again? Will we be constantly in touch and under the watchful eye? I would like to live a safe and secure life, at least as much as the next person, but are we pushing this way too far?
I will do some checking and see if this is a "one-of" or a trend.
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are we giving less or using more?

Blood supplies are down in Ohio-Ohio News Network - All Ohio. All The Time.and apparently across the nation. I have heard this in our local area and now in other places. Why are supplies down? Anyone with ideas?
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you are not drinking enough down under

IHT: Foster's selling pub business as beer sales slow

Beer sales are slowing down and Foster's is selling pubs to perhaps expand the wine business. Retail did not prove that attractive after smoking was banned. The wine business is picking up on a global scale. Might be a smart move, at least it moves the market out of Australia. Nothing against Australia but it is small. I know they drink alot of beer but there must be a limit. they might have jsut reached it.
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shakeout of the minor sports??
Sports: Women's tour cancels season for lack of funds

The PWBA is shutting down for the season.
No outrage at calling women's professional bowling a minor sport, please. It really is. Does the problem reside in the niche nature of the sport, bad marketing or small live crowds that can be housed? Or was the management of the tour not up to it? The article mentioned that TV ratings were up again this year. I do not know the cost and revenue structure of this sport but apparently cable TV alone is not enough. Will other sports without mass appeal for the participants be on this road soon?

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Less stuff on Robinson today
Bishop Tutu chimes in

Bishop Tutu does not see what all the fuss is about. He also thinks that gay clergy should remain celibate. All this is reported in the eTaiwanNews.com.

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Multiculturalism that even I can understand
Well sort of

I do not understand the game of cricket but it makes sense to have a field in Broward county. Apparently the game is big among some immigrant groups. They are talking about a field with 5,000 seats. Now if I just lived there and understood the game I would be all set. The Miami Herald | 08/12/2003 | County votes to expand park, possibly for cricket field.

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Is this happening in more and more places?

The Florida Philharmonic Orchestra is done for—it is over. It is in Chapter 11. Is this indicative of a lack of culture or the down economy? Perhaps, it shows the declining importance of this type of music, in general. It has become a niche market and to my mind not well marketed to the general public. Further, the costs of production are very high. Is this happening where you live, if comments ever come back let me know. Again, from the The Miami Herald.

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First email condolences and now a site to manage your divorced-family scheduling situation

Not being divorced and only having one child, I can only imagine the nightmare of scheduling joint custody. These families had two sets of arrangements and it was not working. So, one group started some sort of web-based aid and is making it available. Another sign of our digital lifestyle or something.
The link goes to the Miami Herald.com , but the families are in Minnesota.

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Are they kidding?

I swear I saw this --will keep trying to track it down, the link went away in the time it took to blog the entry.


Sorry but this link just went away--took the afternoon offf i guess. But the main points were that McDonald's was opening a place for cajun food in the Big Easy. A real place --leather and nice places to sit.
Might try the link again later
Talk about signs of change, McDonald's is branching out from fast food. Sorry, it is now called quick-serve. Anyway, is this a good move? Will people eat at a "quick gourmet casual" place run by McDonald's? Will it have a drive thru? Read all about it at al.com: NewsFlash.

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blogging will be slow today

I have meetings today--even though I am on vacation. So, nothing much will be happening here until about 4 or so.
If you are just coming here or dropped by yesterday, thanks. What you should find are indications/signs that we are unfreezing--getting ready for change.
If for some reason, you do not think the world is really changing in many ways, scroll down. There you will find two posts that sum it up. Forget the gay bishop, check out "homeless with cellphones" and "email condolences". The times they are a changin'.
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rotating shifts are good again

It looks like rotating shifts are becoming the norm for the auto industry. The Honda plant, in Alabama, had new employees and thus no senority, so some method of determining the shift was needed. A rotating shift, given two shifts, does mean at least half the time you are on days. It has some advantages. When I was young my father was on 3-11 for about 5 or 6 years straight. He was lucky, many were never on days. I thought there were negative health aspects of rotations? I guess they worked those out.
Article goes thru the -Gadsden Times
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Monday, August 11, 2003

“Just because I am homeless does not mean I am not connected to the world”

ajc.com | Atlanta/South Metro | Heard on the street: Homeless on phones
Everyone needs to stay in touch. The article points to plenty of worthwhile uses. I wonder, if next there will be a program for the government to pay for them. Either that or even more from charity.

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Another Anglican group struggles with the issue


Anglicans Online | The online centre of the Anglican / Episcopal world A more liberal response to the question but with no answers. Also included is some picking at those who take a more literal scripture view. (I wish they had not but it is their site.)But worthwhile anyway.

another precinct heard from

Reaction from Atlanta mostly mixed.

Some time during the week I will try and make sense of what I have posted today but for now it is enough to point to the markers of change. That is, make sense of them to my satisfaction, which might not satisfy you at all.

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some things change and some just repeat

newsobserver.com - Geraldo Rivera ties knot for fifth time
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This is your digital future

E-mail condolences become funeral trend
A sad story but shows the potential. I am usually pretty good at getting with the program and embracing change, that is for a middle-aged guy, and I think I am ready for this. In a way this really makes sense, given the pace of life and I guess death.

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Are we ready for either of these?

wi-fi and self service ordering McDonald's said to be testing self-service kiosks - Aug. 11, 2003 Apparently McDonald's has determined that the wait is in the order taking and not in the food prep. Only time will tell--will you use it? Right now I am doing the low carb thing so I am not in there much, anymore.
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Perspective

As I read more and more about the Robinson issue, in the church, it all tends to become politics. I know it is more than that but the language and tactics lead me to that feeling. A site like this one, Hoosier Musings on the Road to Emmaus, helps me to remember that some things never change. Read a few posts; see if these brief descriptions of her day as a chaplin intern, put the issues of church politics in their proper place.



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Robinson again

This article Episcopalians Ponder New Gay Bishop in the New York Times [registration required] seems to catch the mood in the Church. It also shows that the Times can do good balanced reporting when it wants. The article does not attempt to make either side seem foolish or ignorant.
What does come out however, is the growing sentiment that perhaps our churches are becoming more congregational and less unified at the national or diocesan level. In the long term this will be a real concern for the future of the Episcopal Church, even if the wounds of the election are healed.


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What a surprise

Ed Asner blames the U.S. government, specifically NAFTA for lost Hollywood jobs. Productions are increasingly moving to Canada. While it is true that Canada does[did?] offer some subsidies and NAFTA does make it easier to leave, the wage structure in Hollywood must play a role. Also, with globalization of the market for entertainment, why should we expect everything to be made here?

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Is this the final nail in the tape coffin??

HP announces new DVD burner. For 399 you can burn your old tapes onto DVD. This link does not address the issue of editing. For my money, literally, I like the mac but this does sound good. Three years ago I paid about 300 for a device just to digitize tapes. Now for 100 more you get the burner also. I wish it would work with my old mac and imovie.

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You people are not decorating enough either


Hard times at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia [another link via NYTIMES]. This illustrates the problem of having a company so closely associated with one person. When that person is in trouble the whole thing has problems. The question becomes, what becomes of the empire is Martha does not get out from under this quickly?


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You people are not drinking enough

Miller Brewingannounced staff cuts today. [through the NYTIMES—may require registration]. Spokesperson says cuts will create more focused structure in line with realities. Corp.speak for revenues steady or declining and costs up—we got fat. Hope this is part of a true change process and not the usual thing where they just dump the work on those left.

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I like the sermon at "One Hand Clapping" better--

The presiding Bishop of the episcopal church has his Sunday sermon online. It is OK. I have never heard him in person, I was working the day he came to town--yes he did come here.
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More on Robinson

The Salty vicar gives his thoughts on this subject. Check out about the first three posts. Well OK, read his blog, I might not always agree but it is interesting.

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The Rev. Donald Sensing, “One Hand Clapping”, posted his Sunday sermon on the topic of homosexuality and the church. His is a United Methodist perspective and very well thought out. For those of you joining me in pondering this question on a Monday, check it out.

In other news, the start of school was canceled here today. Heavy rains in the past week have flooded some roads and made school bus travel dangerous. Maybe tomorrow, as the parent of a teenage boy I was sure hoping for today.

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It seems to me that the news cycle has been in overdrive the past week. One item pushing the other out of the way and in my mind they are all getting mixed up. I am sure that last night I heard that someone named Arnold, a former NBA player, was running to be the gay bishop of California. Or not. The issue for me, this past week, has been the decision at the general convention of the Episcopal Church. Specifically, the agreement of both deputies and bishops to agree to the election of the first openly gay Episcopal bishop. This has caused much discussion, in and outside the church.
This topic should be perfect for this new blog, as it will cause me to examine my beliefs and assumptions about what it means to be an Episcopalian and perhaps more generally a Christian. I am sure some of you will condemn the decision of the convention, while others will applaud it. Many of us are left to ponder it. If you are in the mood to ponder, I refer you to letters from two bishops— one voted for [please scroll for letter] and one against. I plan on reading them again and will provide more links later.

BTW- if you are interested in what this new blog is about just scroll down.

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Sunday, August 10, 2003

Hi my name is Jim and I just became a blogger.
This is my first blog and if I were landing here I would want to know two things: what is this all about and who is writing it?

The express purpose is to provide links and some commentary about change. Specifically, change in organizations, the church and life in general. The title might have tipped you off, if you are familiar with Kurt Lewin. Also, I will attempt to deal with the underlying assumptions we hold that cause us to change or not. [For a good discussion of Lewin by Edgar Schein go here .] Assumptions are those deeply held and unexamined ideas about how the world works. If I ever figure out how to use comments, perhaps we can have some discussions about our assumptions. If you think that this will be a little dull, you are probably right.

Now a little about me. I am in my 50’s and play many roles. I am a husband, father, professor(OK, actually an associate professor.), ordained minister, sports fan, avid reader of non-fiction and very bad athlete. I live near Greenville NC (those with inquiring minds should be able to figure out where I work). I assume that my employer does not want to be part of this blog, so my links and discussions will omit that organization, unless we have a good football season. I am a deacon in the Episcopal Church. In our church the diaconate is an order of ordained ministry, basically of servanthood. Just as I do not speak for my employer, I also do not speak for the Episcopal Church, the Diocese of East Carolina or my bishop. [I think the preceding should get me off the hook—right?]

There will be more here tomorrow or perhaps later tonight if i can learn to cut and paste the proper HTLM tags and things. O, one more thing, I was encouraged to do this by that famous blogger and fine American Mr. Possum . However all the blame will be mine.

Expect to see something shortly about the general convention of the Episcopal Church and our assumptions on what it means to be a christian.

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