Friday, March 21, 2014

@8:35, 3/19/14

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1
N.Y. / Region

Inquiry Seeks Port Authority Records That Involve Christie Ally

David Samson, who is an ally of Gov. Chris Christie, voted to award contracts on bridge projects worth $2.8 billion to companies connected to Mr. Samson’s law firm.
Subpoenas; George Washington Bridge 

Bait for the fat one.
2
Arts

Acquiring Status as Big as Their Robots

Cowboys and indians.
3
Opinion

In Defense of Anonymous Political Giving

The Koch brothers’ historical case for secret donations.
Nonprofit Organizations; Citizens United v Federal Election Commission (Supreme Court Decision); Freedom of Speech and Expression; Campaign Finance; United States Politics and Government; Political Advertising; Tax Credits, Deductions and Exemptions; Corporations 

53.586 X 100 = 5358.6 %  53.6 times is impressive enough.

The Koch brothers have used the shields that give them anonymity to give the air of neutral fact to their deeply biased opinions.
They are not only shielding themselves from a hostile public they are generating a false multitude to support their position.
Such shielded propaganda has no place in democratic discourse.
The anonymity we can live with.  
The misleading labels must be removed.

4
Opinion

From Putin, a Blessing in Disguise

If this is Cold War II, let’s make this race an Earth Race.
Alternative and Renewable Energy; Natural Gas; United States Politics and Government; United States International Relations; Oil (Petroleum) and Gasoline; Solar Energy 

I wish energy policy would act that way.
It will not.
The fossil carbon tax is a necessity.  It will not be "revenue neutral".
Methane is better than coal.  Methane is far from good.
Natural gas is methane.
Best practices fracking is more expensive.  
The drillers are going broke now. 
Solar thermal and photovoltaic are still expensive though less expensive than they were.  Wind is undependable and high maintenance.
There is no practical way to store large reserves of electricity.
Nuclear fusion is still a dream.  It will not be clean.
Nuclear fission is not inherently clean and is deeply unfashionable.
There is some hope for geothermal.  
The resource is modest in most locations.
Passive or semi passive solar and task lighting can work for a price.
They are not urban.

5
Technology

A Wild Idea: Making Our Smartphones Last Longer

Saving money and global resources are just two good reasons not to ditch your cellphone after the traditional two-year cycle.
Smartphones; Environment 

I like the thought.  
The salesmen of the world will not like the practice.  

6
Business Day

Costly Loans Are Drawing Attention From States

States are increasing efforts to shield vulnerable Americans from short-term loans with interest rates that can exceed 300 percent.
Consumer Protection; Credit and Debt; Interest Rates; Payday Loans 


This is a problem for the courts.
Due diligence is required of both parties. 
Default risk is calculated into the interest rate.
Insurance against default is the lenders responsibility.
Where interest rates are capped loans may not cost more than the cap.
This case smells of fraud.
 
7
Science

Machinery of an Energy Dream

With one tiny flash, scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and elsewhere are inching closer to fusion’s promise of endless power.
Fusion (Nuclear Reaction); Nuclear Energy; Physics 

A "dancing dog".
A quick search did not find the Samuel Johnson quote.
http://www.samueljohnson.com/popular.html
""Sir, a woman's preaching is like a dog's walking on his hind legs. It is not done well; but you are surprised to find it done at all."
from Boswell's Life of Johnson"
  
8
Sports

Letang Practices Again

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang resumed practicing nearly two months after he had a stroke, but his return to game action remained uncertain.
Hockey, Ice 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronic_traumatic_encephalopathy
9
World

Scores Killed in Raids on Central Nigeria Villages

The police confirmed Friday’s raids on three villages in Kaduna State, where violence is driven by decades-old land disputes between semi-nomadic communities and settled farmers.
Deaths (Fatalities); Cattle; Agriculture and Farming; Muslims and Islam; Christians and Christianity

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_war
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigerian_Sharia_conflict

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam_in_India#Conversion_controversy
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persecution_of_Hindus#During_Islamic_rule_of_the_Indian_sub-continent


10
U.S.

Video: Pet Store Surveillance Video

Security video showed a woman letting a man in through the back door, who then splashed a liquid from two gas cans around the shop, even into the cages.
Animal Abuse, Rights and Welfare; Arson

There are monsters.

Escaping a failing business.    Insurance fraud.
Puppy mills
11
U.S.

White House to Introduce Climate Data Website

President Obama and two advisers will inaugurate a website on Wednesday that will try to turn scientific data about global warming into mapped digital presentations.
Global Warming; Mobile Applications

The site (climate.data.gov) is not found.

The site (www.climate.data.gov) is not found.
12
U.S.

Arizona: Appeals Court to Hear No-Bail Law

A federal appeals court in San Francisco said that it would take up an Arizona case that stems from the state’s many immigration crackdowns from the past decade.
Illegal Immigration; Bail; Immigration and Emigration

This may not be struck down.
We have a reactionary Court.
 
13
Automobiles

Wheelies: The Jimmy Fallon’s Truck Edition


Nothing of interest here.
 
14
Sports

In Land of Elvis, UConn Still Yearns for Broadway

For 30 years, the Huskies enjoyed the drama and rivalries of a conference tournament at Madison Square Garden. In Memphis this season, they have faced a tough adjustment.
Basketball (College)

  1. In Land of Elvis, UConn Still Yearns for Broadway

    5 days ago ... For 30 years, the Huskies enjoyed the drama and rivalries of a conference tournament at Madison Square Garden. In Memphis this season, ...
  2. No. 1 UConn's Top Challenge Seems to Be Not Running Out of ...

    UConn's Bria Hartley driving on Louisville's Asia Taylor. The No. 1 Huskies won a rematch of last year's N.C.A.A. title game. Credit Jessica ...
  3. UConn Women Halt Baylor's Streak

    In a matchup of the past two national champions, the defending champ, UConn ( 18-0), held on to win its closest game this season. Baylor ...
  4. At UConn, Coach Digs Into Past for Help

    STORRS, Conn. — Connecticut's Bob Diaco insisted he did not hire Don Patterson to be his mentor. Diaco, 40, who is taking on his first head ...
  5. Left Behind, UConn Ponders Starting Over Again

    Left Behind, UConn Ponders Starting Over Again. Jason Szenes for The New York Times. Jim Calhoun in 2011. His men's basketball program ...
  6. Two Wins for UConn

    Bria Hartley had 20 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists to help the No. 1 Connecticut women beat No. 3 Stanford, 76-57, in Storrs, Conn.
  7. UConn Defeats No. 17 Memphis

    DeAndre Daniels had 23 points and a career-high 11 rebounds, and visiting Connecticut pulled away from No. 17 Memphis for an 83-73 victory ...
  8. Harvard Coach Ties Ivy League Record for Wins; UConn Remains ...

    Kathy Delaney-Smith tied Pete Carril for the most basketball victories by an Ivy League coach as visiting Harvard defeated Columbia, 64-51, ...
  9. UConn Survives Maryland and Renews Title Pursuit

    UConn was ineligible for postseason play last season. The team won 20 games, finishing the season quietly on March 9. Since then, the ...
15
Multimedia/Photos

Video: Libya rebel tanker seized

U.S. Navy SEALs board tanker carrying oil from rebel-controlled Libyan port. Rough cut (no reporter narration)
United States Defense and Military Forces; Oil (Petroleum) and Gasoline; United States Politics and Government

North Korea wants oil.
 
16
World

Seven Migrants Die Trying to Reach Greece

Eight people were rescued and two were missing after their boat capsized while crossing the Aegean Sea from Turkey.
Immigration and Emigration; Drownings

Overloaded small boat, probably misdesigned, drowns seven.
17
Business Day

On Hiring and Autism

David Geslak, whose company works with children who have autism, is hesitant to tell parents or children that they have to use “the label.”
Autism; Hiring and Promotion; Small Business

Autism does not fit.
 
18
Science

Billionaires With Big Ideas Are Privatizing American Science

As government financing of basic research has fallen off precipitously, philanthropists have stepped in, setting priorities and drawing both gratitude and trepidation from scientists.
Research; Philanthropy; Science and Technology; Grants (Corporate and Foundation)

No. 
The Government programs have been stunted. 
The private sector has been celebrated.

19
Business Day

Wendy’s Turns Up Volume on Adoption Drive

Wendy’s has long supported adoption, but now the company is putting it front and center with a national advertising campaign and an adoption hub on its website.
Adoptions; Fast Food Industry; Philanthropy; Advertising and Marketing; Online Advertising; Foster Care; Restaurants

The problem is the exit strategy.
Any child that we could deal with should outlive us.
I am resistant to placing a person in a cloister.
Independent life is a matter of luck.

20
Fashion & Style

New Natural Shampoos

Independent companies emphasize botanical ingredients.
Shampoos and Hair Products; Hair

Supermarket house brand seems to work for me.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
 
@9:20


1
N.Y. / Region

Inquiry Seeks Port Authority Records That Involve Christie Ally

2
Automobiles

Wheelies: The Jimmy Fallon’s Truck Edition

3
Arts

Acquiring Status as Big as Their Robots

4
N.Y. / Region

L’Wren Scott’s Death Still Under Investigation

The medical examiner’s office worked on Tuesday to determine the cause of death for Ms. Scott, the fashion designer who was found dead in her apartment on Monday.
Suicides and Suicide Attempts

"Ms. Scott, 49, was the longtime girlfriend of Mick Jagger. The police said that they believed her death was most likely a suicide, but that they were awaiting the findings by the medical examiner’s office." 

5
Opinion

In Defense of Anonymous Political Giving

The Koch brothers’ historical case for secret donations.
Nonprofit Organizations; Citizens United v Federal Election Commission (Supreme Court Decision); Freedom of Speech and Expression; Campaign Finance; United States Politics and Government; Political Advertising; Tax Credits, Deductions and Exemptions; Corporations

Fraud is indefensible.
 
6
Opinion

From Putin, a Blessing in Disguise

If this is Cold War II, let’s make this race an Earth Race.
Alternative and Renewable Energy; Natural Gas; United States Politics and Government; United States International Relations; Oil (Petroleum) and Gasoline; Solar Energy

It won't work.
 
7
Technology

A Wild Idea: Making Our Smartphones Last Longer

Saving money and global resources are just two good reasons not to ditch your cellphone after the traditional two-year cycle.
Smartphones; Environment

Yes.
 
8
Business Day

Costly Loans Are Drawing Attention From States

States are increasing efforts to shield vulnerable Americans from short-term loans with interest rates that can exceed 300 percent.
Consumer Protection; Credit and Debt; Interest Rates; Payday Loans

Good.
 
9
Science

Machinery of an Energy Dream

With one tiny flash, scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and elsewhere are inching closer to fusion’s promise of endless power.
Fusion (Nuclear Reaction); Nuclear Energy; Physics

Dancing dog.
 
10
Sports

Letang Practices Again

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang resumed practicing nearly two months after he had a stroke, but his return to game action remained uncertain.
Hockey, Ice

C.T.E.
 
11
World

Scores Killed in Raids on Central Nigeria Villages

The police confirmed Friday’s raids on three villages in Kaduna State, where violence is driven by decades-old land disputes between semi-nomadic communities and settled farmers.
Deaths (Fatalities); Cattle; Agriculture and Farming; Muslims and Islam; Christians and Christianity

Religious war.
 
12
U.S.

Video: Pet Store Surveillance Video

Security video showed a woman letting a man in through the back door, who then splashed a liquid from two gas cans around the shop, even into the cages.
Animal Abuse, Rights and Welfare; Arson

Insurance fraud.
 
13
U.S.

White House to Introduce Climate Data Website

President Obama and two advisers will inaugurate a website on Wednesday that will try to turn scientific data about global warming into mapped digital presentations.
Global Warming; Mobile Applications

Not found.
 
14
U.S.

Arizona: Appeals Court to Hear No-Bail Law

A federal appeals court in San Francisco said that it would take up an Arizona case that stems from the state’s many immigration crackdowns from the past decade.
Illegal Immigration; Bail; Immigration and Emigration

It should be struck down.
 
15
Sports

In Land of Elvis, UConn Still Yearns for Broadway

For 30 years, the Huskies enjoyed the drama and rivalries of a conference tournament at Madison Square Garden. In Memphis this season, they have faced a tough adjustment.
Basketball (College)

No result as yet.
16
Multimedia/Photos

Video: Libya rebel tanker seized

U.S. Navy SEALs board tanker carrying oil from rebel-controlled Libyan port. Rough cut (no reporter narration)
United States Defense and Military Forces; Oil (Petroleum) and Gasoline; United States Politics and Government

A North Korean operation.   ?
 
17
World

Seven Migrants Die Trying to Reach Greece

Eight people were rescued and two were missing after their boat capsized while crossing the Aegean Sea from Turkey.
Immigration and Emigration; Drownings

More boat.
 
18
Business Day

On Hiring and Autism

David Geslak, whose company works with children who have autism, is hesitant to tell parents or children that they have to use “the label.”
Autism; Hiring and Promotion; Small Business

I see them at my local supermarket.
They function with some help.
 
19
Science

Billionaires With Big Ideas Are Privatizing American Science

As government financing of basic research has fallen off precipitously, philanthropists have stepped in, setting priorities and drawing both gratitude and trepidation from scientists.
Research; Philanthropy; Science and Technology; Grants (Corporate and Foundation)

The same as it once was.
 
20
Business Day

Wendy’s Turns Up Volume on Adoption Drive

Wendy’s has long supported adoption, but now the company is putting it front and center with a national advertising campaign and an adoption hub on its website.
Adoptions; Fast Food Industry; Philanthropy; Advertising and Marketing; Online Advertising; Foster Care; Restaurants

What happens to the child when the adoptive parents die or are disabled?


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

@16:02


1
N.Y. / Region

Inquiry Seeks Port Authority Records That Involve Christie Ally

David Samson, who is an ally of Gov. Chris Christie, voted to award contracts on bridge projects worth $2.8 billion to companies connected to Mr. Samson’s law firm.
Subpoenas; George Washington Bridge; Conflicts of Interest 

OK.
 
2
Opinion

Your Questions, My Answers (III)

A columnist faces his readers, yet again.
Abortion; Blogs and Blogging (Internet); Carbon Dioxide; Christians and Christianity; Global Warming; Iraq War (2003-11); Liberalism (US Politics); Philosophy; Regulation and Deregulation of Industry; Taxation

Even when he gets a right answer he is wrong in his facts and reasoning.
 
3
Automobiles

Wheelies: The Jimmy Fallon’s Truck Edition

The host of “The Tonight Show” wants to buy a pickup; Hyundai apologizes for overestimating the fuel-economy figure for the new Sonata.
Automobiles; Fuel Efficiency

Not one of those trucks.
 
4
Opinion

In Defense of Anonymous Political Giving

The Koch brothers’ historical case for secret donations.
Nonprofit Organizations; Citizens United v Federal Election Commission (Supreme Court Decision); Freedom of Speech and Expression; Campaign Finance; United States Politics and Government; Political Advertising; Tax Credits, Deductions and Exemptions; Corporations

There is no defense of fraud.
 
5
N.Y. / Region

L’Wren Scott’s Death Still Under Investigation

The medical examiner’s office worked on Tuesday to determine the cause of death for Ms. Scott, the fashion designer who was found dead in her apartment on Monday.
Suicides and Suicide Attempts

Wait for the report.
 
6
Great Homes and Destinations

What You Get for ... $800,000

This week’s homes: A forest view in Colorado, a cottage in the Florida Everglades and a co-op in Pittsburgh.
Real Estate and Housing (Residential)

Other peoples dreams.

Houses are site specific and must fit the initial buyer.
 
7
Opinion

From Putin, a Blessing in Disguise

If this is Cold War II, let’s make this race an Earth Race.
Alternative and Renewable Energy; Natural Gas; United States Politics and Government; United States International Relations; Oil (Petroleum) and Gasoline; Solar Energy; Energy and Power

no.
 
8
Technology

A Wild Idea: Making Our Smartphones Last Longer

Saving money and global resources are just two good reasons not to ditch your cellphone after the traditional two-year cycle.
Smartphones; Environment

yes
 
9
U.S.

Wisconsin: Assembly Passes Governor’s Tax-Cut Plan

The Wisconsin Assembly has passed Gov. Scott Walker’s $504 million tax-cut plan by a vote of 61 to 35.
Income Tax; Property Taxes

"Money for the rich"
10
N.Y. / Region

Removing 9/11 Artifacts From New Jersey’s Nest of Political Patronage

Steel from the World Trade Center site will no longer be handled by Gov. Chris Christie’s political appointees at the Port Authority, but by the agency’s professional staff.
September 11 (2001); World Trade Center (Manhattan, NY); Steel and Iron

Trivial.
 
11
U.S.

Amid Bitter Rift, Senate Approves Pick for Top C.I.A. Lawyer

The vote to confirm Caroline D. Krass as the C.I.A.’s general counsel came amid a public battle between the agency and the chairwoman of the Senate Intelligence Committee.
United States Politics and Government; Classified Information and State Secrets

Different problems.
 
12
N.Y. / Region

Asking a Homeless Man His Name

Metropolitan Diary: A passer-by, surprised at a person’s sense of childlike wonder, was courteous as well as generous.
Beggars; Homeless Persons; Subways

Pay attention.
 
13
Sports

Letang Practices Again

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang resumed practicing nearly two months after he had a stroke, but his return to game action remained uncertain.
Hockey, Ice

C.T.E.
 
14
U.S.

Virginia: Governor Expects Payment for Spill

Gov. Terry McAuliffe said he expected Duke Energy to fully compensate Virginia for a large coal ash spill into the Dan River that turned collection basins at Danville’s water treatment plant gray.
Water Pollution; Water; Coal; Hazardous and Toxic Substances

It would be much cheaper to not have the spill.
Duke Energy will need a loan.
 
15
U.S.

Paul to Rebuke Obama on Spying, Citing ’60s Abuses

Senator Rand Paul will cite government eavesdropping on African-American leaders to condemn the Obama administration’s policies on domestic surveillance.
Surveillance of Citizens by Government; Libertarianism (US Politics); Presidential Election of 2016

Obama is probably not responsible for the domestic spying.
Some fact checking is called for.
 
16
Technology

Google Unveils Software for Smartwatches-to-Be

In a pre-emptive move against Apple, Google revealed Android Wear, a version of the Android operating system that is tailored for wearable computers.
Android (Operating System); Wearable Computing

A smart watch is all interface.  Small is not what is wanted.
Curved might help.
 
17
Automobiles

Wheelies: The Hertz for the People Edition

Hertz trims its fleet of rental cars and will sell them to customers; Nissan deletes tweet poking fun at Tesla after New Jersey bans direct sales.
Automobiles; Automobile Renting and Leasing; Automobile Racing

Small diesels are in the news.
 
18
U.S.

Mutual Self-Interest May Help Advance Deal Allowing Aid to Ukraine

Republican leaders proposed giving the White House the changes it wants for the International Monetary Fund in exchange for delaying regulations on tax-exempt political organizations, a deal the White House may take.
United States Politics and Government; Tax Credits, Deductions and Exemptions

Another poison pill.
The Democrats would be foolish to take such a deal.
 
19
U.S.

Arizona: Appeals Court to Hear No-Bail Law

A federal appeals court in San Francisco said that it would take up an Arizona case that stems from the state’s many immigration crackdowns from the past decade.
Illegal Immigration; Bail; Immigration and Emigration

More cruelty will not stop the flow of immigrants.
Strike down this needless law.
 
20
U.S.

Senator’s Simmering Battle With C.I.A. Over Detentions Report

A broadside by Senator Dianne Feinstein has set up a showdown between the executive and legislative branches of government, and may well have permanently chilled her relations with the spy agency she oversees.
Classified Information and State Secrets; United States Politics and Government; Interrogations; Detainees 

The Senator is doing her job.
The congressional committees supervise the C.I.A.
 
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