Cloud storage Achilles Heel

Unfortunately, when you upload your information to a server outside of your computer, the US doesn't think you have any expectation of privacy.  Of course, you can encrypt that data, but it's still sad to see and something that's going to prevent widespread cloud service adoption.

Endorsement based on Climate Change

Really surprised by Bloomberg's endorsement.  I don't know that the recent hurricane was caused or worsened by global warming, but this could potentially be the biggest instance of a climate-based endorsement pushing a major election.  That could make it the most important news item all year.

Romney's Zombie advocacy

At first I thought "no way" and then Joss Whedon of all people said "way."

Again, not Microsoft

I had recently considered switching my email over to Microsoft's web email service ever since they updated their email client, added new features, and have a better overall privacy reputation than my Google service (including the Blogger service this is getting posted to).  Unfortunately, Microsoft backed off that policy today, to more or less match Google's.  Very unfortunate.

Debate scripted as much as possible

I found this amusing, although -- if memory serves -- much of it seems directly related to the Obama-McCain town hall meeting, where McCain looked a uncomfortable or stood in places that looked weird on TV.

Wired Infographic on US Military activity since 9/11

Fascinating stuff.  I had no idea how little a presence was in Afganistan and how much defense spending has spiked. (thanks silver)

Trampire? Really?

An outstanding article giving a breakdown on a celebrity breakup I don't care about to talk about something I do: how young women view themselves in a culture increasingly hostile to mistakes and rape victims.  One that's also blindly ignorant of the creepy double-standard we have for men in the same position.

Also odd see something of a gossip wet blanket from the Huffington Post, frequently a sensationalist Hollywood vampire.

Animal adoption

Two very sad dog rescue stories that really got to me.  Dogs that may seem to have behavior problems as a result of abuse can still make great pets.

Last Apple product I'll ever buy

Definitely agree with this article by Slate.  Apple owns something that's cool but not exactly complex or revolutionary, and they are going to choke the industry by grabbing up stupid, obvious patents.  As the author points out, Apple just patented the steering wheel and no other car can have one.

Ridiculous.

Gillian Anderson is a good actress

... because you can only deliver the same line so many times and (as far as I remember from the series) give it the same gravity each time.  Well done, Gillian.  Of course, when you watch them strung together, it looks pretty silly:

If I ran one of the late night talk shows I'd invite her on, play this, and ask her to make some more creative recitations of surprise, such as:

• Zounds!
  
• Mi sangre es baile! (Spanish for "my blood is dancing").
  
• Holy poundcake, batman.
  
• Oopsy daisy!
• This turn of events is also unexpected

Romney evidently wins in 2012

At least one source with a strong reputation is putting Romney over the top for 2012.  Interestingly, former President Clinton is now campaigning for Obama -- someone who beat a popular president (and war hero) because of a slow economic recovery.

Pretty vs. Cute

Today, an analysis of the various terms around attractiveness.  While I'm not a huge fan of the show this came from, I've referenced this conversation in some way on too many occasions over the years.

Also entertaining: mistakes from the show.

Beating Brothers Circus

Years ago, I heard that circuses like Ringling Bros were mistreating animals.  Then I recall hearing that they had taken real pains to turn things around and make a big PR push that this just wasn't the case.  And now this.  Obviously at this point I'd rather take my kids to a UFC fight: at least they're out in the open about their violence.

Skyrim OST @ work

Unlike a lot of Ambient / Classical Music I listen to -- I found the Skyrim game soundtrack remarkably work-friendly.  It's active but not distracting and, after like the first few minutes, has no words.