Nemo Me Impune Lacessit

Wednesday, 29 April 2009

Is This the Pizza Box of the Future?

Filed under: Food and Drink, Politics — Tags: , — mikewb1971 @ 9:45 PM (21:45)

Current mood: amused, cynical

It’s not a bad idea — I’ve definitely seen worse.

Then comes the big question that the “mancouch” poster poses to the readership —

Should pizza companies adopt this new pizza box idea?

Why not let customers decide this question?

Another factor that pizza chains will take into consideration is this: does the “GreenBox” add any costs that they have to then pass on to the customer in the form of higher prices?

“Going Green” seems to be the buzzphrase of The Barack years, just as “terrorism” was for George XLIII and the Busheviks.

Electronics 2020 — PC Upgrade and Repair

Filed under: Education, Technology — Tags: , , , — mikewb1971 @ 6:54 PM (18:54)

This course maps fully to CompTIA’s new 2006 A+ Exam objectives. The course is designed to be a complete, step-by-step approach for learning the fundamentals of supporting and troubleshooting computer hardware.

Course Modules

  • Hardware Needs Software to Work
  • PC Repair Fundamentals
  • Form Factors and Power Supplies
  • Processors and Chipsets
  • Motherboards
  • Upgrading Memory
  • Hard Drives
  • Installing and Supporting Input / Output (I/O) Devices
  • Multimedia Devices and Mass Storage
  • PCs on a Network
  • Notebooks, Tablet PCs and PDAs
  • Supporting Printers and Scanners

Student Competencies

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

  1. Identify fundamental parts of a computer and their functions.
  2. Distinguish between AT, ATX, BTX, LPX and NLX form factors.
  3. Identify system requirements for software and hardware installations and upgrades.
  4. Identify hardware requirements for setting up a SOHO network.
  5. Identify fundamental parts of a laptop and a PDA.
  6. Describe function and parts of an inkjet, laser and dot-matrix printer.

Computer Information Systems 1410 — Information Technology Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software

Filed under: Education, Technology — Tags: , , , — mikewb1971 @ 6:15 PM (18:15)

This course covers the fundamentals of computer hardware and software as well as advanced concepts. Students who complete this course will be able to describe the internal components of a computer, assemble a computer system, install an operating system, and troubleshoot using system tools and diagnostic software. Students will also be able to connect to the Internet and share resources in a network environment. Hands-on lab activities will be an essential element of this course. Virtual learning tools are integrated to supplement classroom learning activities and provide interactive “hands-on” experience.

Student Competencies

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

  1. Define information technology (IT) and describe the components of a personal computer.
  2. Protect the student against accidents and injury, protect equipment from damage, protect data from loss, and protect the environment from contamination.
  3. Perform a step-by-step assembly of a desktop computer tower.
  4. Explain the purpose of preventive maintenance and identify the elements of the troubleshooting process.
  5. Explain, install and navigate an operating system
  6. Upgrade components (security and otherwise) based on customer needs
  7. Perform preventive maintenance and troubleshooting
  8. Describe, remove and replace select components of a laptop computer.
  9. Describe, remove and replace select components of a printer and scanner.
  10. Describe and install a network.
  11. Perform advanced installation of a desktop computer tower.
  12. Apply good communication skills and professional behavior while working with customers.

Computer Information Systems 1680 — Linux Essentials

Filed under: Education, Technology — Tags: , , , , — mikewb1971 @ 5:09 PM (17:09)

This theory- and lab-based course will introduce students to the concepts and provide practical experience in basic installation, operation and troubleshooting for Linux operating systems. Students will learn to explain fundamental open source licenses, demonstrate knowledge of user administration, understand file permissions and software configurations, and manage local storage devices and network protocols

Student Competencies

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate ability to install a Linux operating system.
  2. Show proficiency in using the Linux desktop.
  3. Understand how to locate Help resources in the Linux system.
  4. Show ability in using the YAST management utility to administer the Linux system.
  5. Explain the fundamental properties of the Linux shell.
  6. Demonstrate the ability to use the command line interface (CLI) to administer the Linux system.
  7. Show an understanding of Linux processes, jobs and runlevels in the Linux system.
  8. Demonstrate the ability to configure the network interface, and configure network services.
  9. Show an understanding of Linux security features.

NOTES

The instructor, Mr. David Clauss, recommended Unix Made Easy — 2nd Edition over the text listed on the course syllabus, Getting Started with Linux: Novell’s Guide to CompTIA’s Linux+ (Course 3060)

Tuesday, 28 April 2009

Is Atheism a Religion or Not?

Filed under: Philosophy, Principles — Tags: , , , , — mikewb1971 @ 2:21 PM (14:21)

Current mood: thoughtful

Recently, I found that Wendi had recommended a blog posting at the Revelife subsite here titled Atheism is not a religion

My comment was as follows —

Ah . . . but the author hasn’t run into some of the atheists that I have over the years. They have a certain . . . evangelical slant to their “atheism,” in that they have a burning need to convert others to their way of thinking. That, and they seem to substitute faith in and worship of a particular traditional deity (Jehovah / Yahweh / Allah, etc.) with faith in and worship of The State, i.e. government.

I cite as evidence to back up that comment my experiences with various atheists over the years.

First, I’ve noticed that atheists, regardless of political inclinations, do have that tendency to preach to the “unconverted” a bit. Especially when the person in question has expressed any sort of religious belief. Also, I’ve noticed that some atheists will get rather upset when someone says “bless you” after they sneeze, such as I’m doing right now, due to my seasonal hayfever.

Second, and more importantly, there are what I call the false atheists, who substitute worship of a particular deity with that of  Leviathan government, and/or the persons in political office. An example would be my recent (July 2008) interactions with the local “atheist” group —

Here’s where I get at the core of the faux “atheist” Leviathan Cult scam —

Freethinkers For Real?
Re: [Atheist-Freethinkers_NM] Freethinkers for Real?

More recently —

Re: [Atheist-Freethinkers_NM] FW: [democrat-141] Counter Demonstration (Against Radical Right) April 15

These Tea Party’s are also about opposition to the fascist corporate bailouts.  I suspect there will be far more atheists participating in the tea parties than protesting against them.  In fact, given that the libertarians are participating, I know that atheists will be well represented.   The text below reads like a personality cult, let’s have faith in Obama, he wants to do good, he is really trying, lets give him a chance.     Hopefully, none of us here will fall for that crap, we are  not Russia, Cuba or N. Korea.   Come join us at the party.  — regards, Martin

—– Original Message —–
From: “Ted Cloak”
To: “Ward 11A Democrats (Bernalillo County, NM)”,Kucinich Program Resonance in New Mexico,
     Humanist Society of New Mexico, Atheist-Freethinkers NM
Sent: Saturday, April 11, 2009 9:03:25 PM GMT
Subject: [Atheist-Freethinkers_NM] FW: [democrat-141] Counter Demonstration (Against Radical Right) April 15

From: Curtis Mark
Sent: Saturday, April 11, 2009 5:32 PM
To: Joan Saks Berman
Subject: Fw: [democrat-141] Counter Demonstration

—– Original Message —–
From: Terry Riley

Sent: Friday, April 10, 2009 10:52 AM
Subject: [democrat-141] Counter Demonstration

I just read an article on the front page of the Albuquerque Journal promoting a demonstration against taxes. The lady who was interviewed would not list a party affiliation but did say that she is conservative. Their demonstration is called, “The Albuquerque Tea Party”. They are objecting to Obama’s rescue spending and to the taxes that they are paying.

I am going to hold a demonstration in support of President Obama and what he is trying to do to save our economy. I doubt that everything that he will try is perfect but he is working hard to fix a really big mess and he needs support. I also believe that it is time to bring attention to the tax cuts for the rich both on the federal level as well as the state level. We must rescind those tax cuts.

Their demonstration is going to be one block west of the intersection of Louisiana and Montgomery and will run from 4 pm on Wednesday April 15th through 7 pm. I propose a counter demonstration at the intersection of Louisiana and Montgomery that will run from 4 pm through 6 pm on Wednesday April 15th. They have bought radio ads supporting this demonstration and got a front page story in the Journal. Please, we must push back.

The demonstration that I am planning is about 150 yards east of the “Tea Party” demonstration and I would like to ask anybody who attends to concentrate on getting out a message of support and not to get into yelling matches with the other demonstrators or people who drive by. Civil demonstration is what gets attention. Certainly with the Journal having covered the lead up to this demonstration we should be able to get media attention to our presence. I will contact all TV and the Journal.

There is plenty of parking southeast of the intersection of Louisiana and Montgomery.

My suggestions for signs are:

Bush spent it…

Rich people took us to war!
Rich people need to pay taxes!

No taxes –
no police
no fire department
no paramedics
no county hospitals
no highways
no airports
no air traffic controllers
NO MILITARY
no social security
no medicare
no country

Obama just started
give him a chance!

These are some suggestions, I am sure you all will come up with other good ones. Please come and help me show our support to Obama and the need to fix the problems without any more tax cuts.

Terry Riley
(505-)899-6275

Sunday, 26 April 2009

Quiz on MyYearbook [2]

Filed under: Quizzes / Surveys — mikewb1971 @ 7:29 PM (19:29)

Current mood: contemplative

What Does Your Birth Month Reveal About You?
February

February
Abstract thoughts. Loves reality and abstract. Intelligent and clever. Changing personality. Attractive. Sexy. Temperamental. Quiet, shy and humble. Honest and loyal. Determined to reach goals. Loves freedom. Rebellious when restricted. Loves aggressiveness. Too sensitive and easily hurt. Gets angry really easily but does not show it. Dislike unnecessary things. Loves making friends but rarely shows it. Daring and stubborn. Ambitious. Realizing dreams and hopes. Sharp. Loves entertainment and leisure. Romantic on the inside not outside. Superstitious and ludicrous. Spendthrift. Tries to learn to show emotions.

Take the quiz!
myYearbook.com

Thursday, 23 April 2009

Quizzes on MyYearbook [1]

Filed under: Quizzes / Surveys — Tags: — mikewb1971 @ 1:10 PM (13:10)
How smart are you?
Genius

Genius
You sure know your stuff!

Take the quiz!
myYearbook.com

Can You Have A Long Distance Relationship?
Long Distance Lover

Long Distance Lover
No matter how far the distance is between you and your sweetie, you’re ready to brave all the odds for love. Although a long distance relationship can be straining for some, you’re capable of making that kind of commitment. You make your relationship a priority, and therefore go the extra ‘mile’ every chance you get to make your bf/gf feel appreciated.


Take the quiz!
myYearbook.com

What Kind Of Sex Should You Have?
Kinky

Kinky
You like whips, chains….. crazy stuff. You are creative with sex. Keep it going!!!!! I hope you have a partner as kinky as you, otherwise you wont be satisfied.

Take the quiz!
myYearbook.com

Wednesday, 22 April 2009

Friendship Triangles, Anyone?

Filed under: Life, Social Life — Tags: — mikewb1971 @ 10:51 PM (22:51)

Current mood: contemplative

I was perusing the Files section of the ABQMeet Yahoo! group, and found this, attributed to a “James” —

Hi Everyone,

When I was passing through a burg up in Michigan, and while at a little restaurant, I noticed these triangles made from the diner’s napkin that people would place near the edge of their dining table. I eventually inquired as to what it was for.

It’s a “Friendship Triangle” — they take a napkin and fold it into a triangle and place it in clear view near the edge of their table. It’s a signal to strangers (people we haven’t met yet) that it is okay to come introduce themselves.

One of the local restaurants apparently started the custom because they had more customers than they had tables and it blossomed locally into a social tradition.

Place a fork on the napkin if you only want a woman to stop by, or a spoon if you only want a man to stop by. Leaving just a plain napkin invites either gender, a family, or whoever might need a place to sit.

The custom is not to automatically sit down because the triangle is also used now to allow blind dates to find each other the first time — internet dating and all.

So the person seeing the triangle would come over to the table and say “Hi, I’m Sara. I saw the Friendship Triangle.” She would stop talking for a moment to let the person sitting respond. The customary response is either: “Please, come join me.” or “I’m sorry, I’m waiting for someone.”

I thought it a nice idea and I’ve been doing this for a while. It would be nice if restaurant owners would post a little sign near their entry to explain the custom.  Or better yet, an entrepreneur that markets a plaque which is marketed to restaurant owners.

Pirates in Washington, DC

Filed under: Politics — Tags: , — mikewb1971 @ 10:11 PM (22:11)

Current mood: curious

Just now, I found this picture at the Rio Grande Foundation-sponsored newmexicoliberty.com —


(Click the picture to see the full-size version)
If anything, I suspect that there’s more actual pirates (in terms of people who rob, kill, rape, kidnap, assault and steal from others for a living) in Washington DC than on all of the Third World’s coastlines and rivers put together.

Meanwhile, Jeremy Schall provides another side to the Somali pirate story.

It seems that despite The Barack‘s election-campaign rhetoric about diplomacy and peace, he’s showing NO signs of scaling back America’s military overseas involvements — He’s redeploying troops from Iraq to Afghanistan, as a prelude for possible operations in Pakistan.

Oops — did I say that he’s was a peacemonger during the campaign? My mistake!

If anything, it’s a good bet he’s scaling up America’s bootprints abroad. Blackwater, the “Left’s” favorite scapegoats after Wal-Mart, seem to be starting their own navy.

NOTES

  1. Hat tip to Frank DuBois for finding the above picture.

Quote of the Day, 22 April 2009

Filed under: Politics, Quote of the Day, Self-Defense — Tags: , , , , — mikewb1971 @ 8:58 PM (20:58)

Current mood: content

“That the people and the States should, for a sufficient period of time, elect an uninterrupted succession of men ready to betray both; that the traitors should, throughout this period, uniformly and systematically pursue some fixed plan for the extension of the military establishment; that the governments and the people of the States should silently and patiently behold the gathering storm and continue to supply the materials until it should be prepared to burst on their own heads must appear to everyone more like the incoherent dreams of a delirious jealousy, or the misjudged exaggerations of a counterfeit zeal, than like the sober apprehensions of genuine patriotism. Extravagant as the supposition is, let it, however, be made. Let a regular army, fully equal to the resources of the country, be formed; and let it be entirely at the devotion of the federal government: still it would not be going too far to say that the State governments with the people on their side would be able to repel the danger . . . . This proportion would not yield, in the United States, an army of more than twenty-five or thirty thousand men. To these would be opposed a militia amounting to near half a million of citizens with arms in their hands . . . . It may well be doubted whether a militia thus circumstanced could ever be conquered by such a proportion of regular troops. . . . Besides the advantage of being armed, which the Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation, the existence of subordinate governments . . . forms a barrier against the enterprises of ambition, more insurmountable than any which a simple government of any form can admit of. Notwithstanding the military establishments in the severl kingdoms of Europe, which are carried as far as the public resources will bear, the governments are afraid to trust the people with arms. . . . Let us not insult the free and gallant citizens of America with the suspicion that they would be less able to defend the rights of which they would be in actual possession than the debased subjects of arbitrary power would be to rescue theirs from the hands of their oppressors. Let us rather no longer insult them with the supposition that they can ever reduce themselves to the necessity of making the experiment by a blind and tame submission to the long train of insidious measures which must precede and produce it.”
— James Madison, The Federalist No. 46

Older Posts »

Blog at WordPress.com.

%d bloggers like this: