John Hagelin

I was browsing the Christian Science Monitor today, and I came across this quote.

John Hagelin, a quantum physicist says in [The Secret], "Quantum
mechanics confirms it; Quantum cosmology confirms it: that the universe
essentially emerges from thought and all of this matter around us is just
precipitated thought. Ultimately we are the source of the universe...."

Do you remember John Hagelin? I met him in Seattle in 1992, when he was the Presidential Candidate for the Natural Law Party, which claimed to be doubling in size every week. Wikipedia says "Hagelin is now a professor of Physics and Director of the Institute of Science, Technology and Public Policy at Maharishi University of Management, and Minister of Science and Technology of the Global Country of World Peace."

So ... I'm not saying he's not a quantum physicist. I'm just surprised to see an uncontextualized quote.

Having driven on the 405, I can totally see the need

Which is a story I won't tell here.

You're not going to miss the bottom

So ... if Wheaton's right, we should be a little concerned about the subprime lenders closing up shop. I'm just saying.

The Onions says what I want to so much better, once again

So, you know, if you have any friends....

Daddy Halliburton

Did you know Li'l Orphan Annie was still kicking around? Apparently Oliver Warbucks is controlling Ratznestistan on the US Government's behalf, and has been sent to remove the strongman dictator to appease the local insurgency.

There was also a nice bit about the number 6 train.

NYC Opera 2007 - 2008 Season announced

Toni Morrison's Margaret Garner is included, and apparently they have quite a dancy King Arthur. More Don Giovanni! Wheee!

Ides, Nones and Calends

One more useless thing to know. Remember that March, May, July and October are different! These are the 3rd, 5th, 7th and 10th months, for which we need a good mnemonic.