Monthly Archives: March 2009

There was an interesting story in the paper (well, technically, on the S.F. Chronicle’s website) the other day about a court order which has resulted in the suspension of operations of the “Hawaii Superferry“. I think this is interesting primarily … Continue reading →

There’s been a lot of outrage lately over some $165M in total bonus compensation that was paid out to senior people at AIG, a recipient of over $100B in federal bailout money. This is silly. Anyone who’s been around floundering … Continue reading →

A friend once concisely illustrated why it’s difficult to write software that can understand human language. He cited as an example the (possibly well known) phrase “chocolate dessert cup store”. It’s a delightfully bizarre case.

Did you know that computer programmers have their own patron saint? (Also in his portfolio: computers, computer users, and the Internet.) For some reason, I find that particularly touching. I also think it’s interesting to reflect that, at one time, … Continue reading →

I saw the “Watchmen” movie last night. When asked if it was good, my response was “I’m not sure I’d go so far as to call it good, but it was interesting.” Here I present some amplifications on this theme. … Continue reading →

You know those suspect cold cuts in your fridge? The ones that might have been there a little too long? You should throw them out. No, you shouldn’t try eating them, even if you’re sort of hungry. Trust me.