see more Lolcats and funny pictures
FINEST KIND CLINIC AND FISHMARKET.... Discussing medicine, culture, and the joys of cooking Pansit.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Visita Iglesia Online
an old, old Catholic custom was to visit seven churches on Holy Thursday.
This practice, introduced by the Spanish colonizers, goes back to the time of the early church where Christians would visit the seven great basilicas in Rome for the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament during Maundy Thursday. These churches are: The Saint John Lateran, St. Peter, Saint Mary Major, Saint Paul Outside the Walls, St. Lawrence Outside the Walls, Holy Cross in Jerusalem and St. Sebastian Outside the Walls.
Usually, the Holy Sacrament is taken out of the tabernacle and placed on a side altar, since Jesus was in the Garden of Gesthemane...you are supposed to spend time with him praying, since the Apostles fell asleep when he was being tempted to give the whole thing up and run away. Traditionally, if you are being tempted, or are facing sickness or death, this is the part of Jesus' life that you think about in your prayers.
Well, a lot of Pinoys can't visit churches, because they are sick, or live in areas without churches (e.g. Saudi, on board ships) or have to work.
so the Bishops have put the "Seven churches" on line, with audio prayers (The stations of the cross) to inspire your prayers.
----------------------
Another Philippine custom is chanting the Passion...the neighbors set up a small chapel to chant the traditional prayers.
I wrote about Holy week in the Philippines a while back, and you can find the essay HERE.
This practice, introduced by the Spanish colonizers, goes back to the time of the early church where Christians would visit the seven great basilicas in Rome for the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament during Maundy Thursday. These churches are: The Saint John Lateran, St. Peter, Saint Mary Major, Saint Paul Outside the Walls, St. Lawrence Outside the Walls, Holy Cross in Jerusalem and St. Sebastian Outside the Walls.
Usually, the Holy Sacrament is taken out of the tabernacle and placed on a side altar, since Jesus was in the Garden of Gesthemane...you are supposed to spend time with him praying, since the Apostles fell asleep when he was being tempted to give the whole thing up and run away. Traditionally, if you are being tempted, or are facing sickness or death, this is the part of Jesus' life that you think about in your prayers.
Well, a lot of Pinoys can't visit churches, because they are sick, or live in areas without churches (e.g. Saudi, on board ships) or have to work.
so the Bishops have put the "Seven churches" on line, with audio prayers (The stations of the cross) to inspire your prayers.
----------------------
Another Philippine custom is chanting the Passion...the neighbors set up a small chapel to chant the traditional prayers.
I wrote about Holy week in the Philippines a while back, and you can find the essay HERE.
Mark your calanders:
Première conférence internationale sur le bâillement
First International Conference on Yawning
Paris, 24 – 25 juin 2010
------------------------
actually, no one is really sure why folks yawn, maybe "thermoregulation" or to raise your oxygen level.
------------------
Is yawning contagious?
Musical interlude take two
Bill Robinson, AKA Bo Jangles is probably best known for the song, even though it was probably inspired by a meeting with another song and dance performer, not Robinson.
This version is done by another song and dance man, Sammy Davis Junior...
This version is done by another song and dance man, Sammy Davis Junior...
Musical interlude for today
all the news is bad or seems to be delusions or lies.
So, what did the "simple folk" do in the past when they were blue?
They watched Shirley Temple...
yes, the whole movie is now on line at YOUTUBE...
the audiobook is now at Librivox...
and the author has a website LINK.
not my favorite Shirley Temple movie (I prefer the Little Princess) but a nice (but dated) movie for kids.
and yes, that's Bo Jangles dancing.
So, what did the "simple folk" do in the past when they were blue?
They watched Shirley Temple...
yes, the whole movie is now on line at YOUTUBE...
the audiobook is now at Librivox...
and the author has a website LINK.
not my favorite Shirley Temple movie (I prefer the Little Princess) but a nice (but dated) movie for kids.
and yes, that's Bo Jangles dancing.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Craft item of the day
Kids driving you nuts?
download some HelloKitty coloring book illustrations for them to color.
headsup HelloKittyHell...
Musical interlude for today
turn up speakers and relax
non Christians can ignore the pictures...
here in the Philippines, Holy week reminds us that even though we have typhoons, floods, earthquakes, mudslides, Dengue fever and corrupt politicians, that the Lord of the Universe came here and suffered just like we did, so knows what we are going through...and that the ultimate end of the story is happy...
Stuff below the fold
Junk food "addictive"?
More junk science, that can't tell real addiction, that harms society from liking something a lot and want to repeat the pleasure.
----------------------
Just when docs are noticing vitamin D deficiency is associated with health risks, they are taxing tanning beds.
a discussion here.
-------------------
the first miniature golf course.
don't upset the gnomes...
-------------------
and just in time for Easter: The Bunny museum.
More junk science, that can't tell real addiction, that harms society from liking something a lot and want to repeat the pleasure.
----------------------
Just when docs are noticing vitamin D deficiency is associated with health risks, they are taxing tanning beds.
a discussion here.
-------------------
the first miniature golf course.
don't upset the gnomes...
-------------------
and just in time for Easter: The Bunny museum.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Headlines below the fold
Actually, I'm bookmarking these so I can read them later.
The time line on those accusations against the Pope
Actually, John Allen rebut the charges too...
------------------------
BLACKFIVE reports cutting R&R to save money...
The real result will be an increase in PTSS...
link2 link3
--------------------
Hacker war, take one. "Smartgrids have security holes"
worrying about hackers taking out the "smartgrid"
---------------
another day another typhoon...well, not yet.
we need rain desperately (we're in the dry season but rain helps lower the bill to irrigate)...but if it hits now, it may destroy the second crop, which is being harvested...
---------------------------------
another day, another earthquake....not near us this time...
it' Holy week, and we're hoping for no terrorism or disasters since the Philippines will shut down and everyone will go home this week for Easter.
-----------------
The Gapan public market opening photos are HERE.
yeah, just because the old palenke burned down suspiciously so the mayor could inaugurate a new one in time for his run (or rather his wife's run) for reelection is not a coincidence.
and I love this line:
The time line on those accusations against the Pope
Actually, John Allen rebut the charges too...
------------------------
BLACKFIVE reports cutting R&R to save money...
The real result will be an increase in PTSS...
link2 link3
--------------------
Hacker war, take one. "Smartgrids have security holes"
worrying about hackers taking out the "smartgrid"
---------------
another day another typhoon...well, not yet.
we need rain desperately (we're in the dry season but rain helps lower the bill to irrigate)...but if it hits now, it may destroy the second crop, which is being harvested...
---------------------------------
another day, another earthquake....not near us this time...
it' Holy week, and we're hoping for no terrorism or disasters since the Philippines will shut down and everyone will go home this week for Easter.
-----------------
The Gapan public market opening photos are HERE.
yeah, just because the old palenke burned down suspiciously so the mayor could inaugurate a new one in time for his run (or rather his wife's run) for reelection is not a coincidence.
and I love this line:
Mayor Natividad.. asked the audience to forget the past and move on to ensure the further development of the city.
No Way we'll "forget the past", you XXXXXXXXXX.
And to my US readers: Don't expect the embassy to care if someone kills you. They've done diddly squat in helping our family.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sigh. Have to relearn stuff again
lots of new theories about the universe, from dark energy to dark matter to dark flow...parallel universes, etc.
but the latest: we don't know nothing....
and if you are interested in this, try Astronomy cast podcast's
most recent show 
We've wrapped up our Solar System mysteries and now we move onto the Milky Way mysteries, and the some of the general mysteries of galaxies. From blue stragglers to Eta Carinae… what's going on? ...
Play Podcast
or try
Astronomy Cast on December 16th, 2009 | 12 responses | [Download MP3]
in Cosmology
What if our universe was just one in an infinite number of parallel universes; a possible outcome from the specific predictions of quantum mechanics. The idea of multiple universes is common in science fiction, but is there any actual science to back this theory up?
and you thought discussing how many angels could dance on the head of a pin was crazy...
but the latest: we don't know nothing....
and if you are interested in this, try Astronomy cast podcast's
most recent show
Ep. 176: Mysteries of the Milk...
Play Podcastor try
Ep. 166: Multiverses
in Cosmology
What if our universe was just one in an infinite number of parallel universes; a possible outcome from the specific predictions of quantum mechanics. The idea of multiple universes is common in science fiction, but is there any actual science to back this theory up?
and you thought discussing how many angels could dance on the head of a pin was crazy...
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Stuff that makes you wonder "WTF"
You know those "Seven dirty words" you can't say on TV?
Well now things have changed...
-------------------------------------
Little Red Riding Hood, with schematics:
(Via DRB)
-------------------
How "healthy food" sparked a UK Parents revolt, local entrepeneurs selling lunch to kids, and "crisp dealing"...
---------------------
Don't like spraying your plants with toxic pesticides?
Well, use Pepsi instead...video HERE
hmm...wonder if that would work on our organic rice fields...it might be the sugar content that kills insects.
-------------------
Attention Conspiracy buffs:
...Why Opinion Polls are like Soup...
... how the "support" for the health care bill was manipulated
... "Spengler": nihilism as behind the attacks on the Pope...
well, at least here in the Philippines, conspiracies to stay in power are done in plain sight...
Well now things have changed...
-------------------------------------
Little Red Riding Hood, with schematics:
(Via DRB)
-------------------
How "healthy food" sparked a UK Parents revolt, local entrepeneurs selling lunch to kids, and "crisp dealing"...
---------------------
Don't like spraying your plants with toxic pesticides?
Well, use Pepsi instead...video HERE
hmm...wonder if that would work on our organic rice fields...it might be the sugar content that kills insects.
-------------------
Attention Conspiracy buffs:
...Why Opinion Polls are like Soup...
... how the "support" for the health care bill was manipulated
... "Spengler": nihilism as behind the attacks on the Pope...
well, at least here in the Philippines, conspiracies to stay in power are done in plain sight...
Gift item of the day
Amazon blurb: Featuring exciting and inspiring full-color inserts with photos of and insights from stock car racing's finest personalities, the NIV Thinline Bible: Stock Car Edition is sure to be a motorsports fan's favorite Bible. Motor Racing Outreach, a ministry to the world of motorsports, has partnered with Zondervan to create this Bible designed to delight race fans. MRO brings testimonies and photographs of the popular race personalities with whom they work on a daily basis---the drivers, the pit crews, the media spokespeople, and others associated with the world of racing...
and if you like it, the website suggests:
and if you like it, the website suggests:
 | 6% buy Before the Thunder Rolls: Devotions for Nascar Fans $11.05 |
headsup Canturbury tales
Friday, March 26, 2010
Headline of the day
comes from ZDNET:
Bill Gates, nuclear superpower?
"...According to BusinessWeek’s Shigeru Sato, a Gates investment, TerraPower, is in discussion with Toshiba to develop small-scale nuclear power generators....He’s trying to reboot the nuclear industry with a concept called a Traveling-Wave Reactor. Put simply — very simply — a Traveling Wave Reactor doesn’t generate tons upon tons of spent, radioactive fuel. Instead, it eats the fuel we’ve already created, running for nearly a 100 years without needing more fuel, and without generating waste...."Stuff below the fold
TPB posts the ACTA agreement...
Guess I'll have to stick to buying films at the Palenke, which often offers them before they open in Manila...
---------------------------
much of the electricity in the Philippines comes from geothermal plants.
Pop Sci notes this can cause earthquakes.
I wonder jf that's why we've had so many minor rumbles lately...
----------------------
The Examiner "architecture" page has several interesting articles on Native American archeology.
you don't have to go to Europe or the Middle east to see burial mounds or stone forts.
----------------------
AYYYY! has all the Sandra Bullock links that your little heart could desire.
Guess I'll have to stick to buying films at the Palenke, which often offers them before they open in Manila...
---------------------------
much of the electricity in the Philippines comes from geothermal plants.
Pop Sci notes this can cause earthquakes.
I wonder jf that's why we've had so many minor rumbles lately...
----------------------
The Examiner "architecture" page has several interesting articles on Native American archeology.
you don't have to go to Europe or the Middle east to see burial mounds or stone forts.
----------------------
AYYYY! has all the Sandra Bullock links that your little heart could desire.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
the dangers of dihydrogen monoxide
via improbable research:
the Material Safety Data Sheet for the much-discussed substance dihydrogen monoxide:
the Material Safety Data Sheet for the much-discussed substance dihydrogen monoxide:
—————————————————-
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET FOR DIHYDROGEN MONOXIDE
—————————————————-
PRODUCT NAME: DIHYDROGEN MONOXIDE
FORMULA WT: 18.00
CAS NO.: 07732-18-5
NIOSH/RTECS NO.: ZC0110000
COMMON SYNONYMS: DIHYDROGEN OXIDE, HYDRIC ACID
PRODUCT CODES: 4218,4219
EFFECTIVE: 05/30/86
REVISION #01LABORATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
SAFETY GLASSES; LAB COAT
PRECAUTIONARY LABEL STATEMENTS
STORAGE: KEEP IN TIGHTLY CLOSED CONTAINER.
BOILING POINT: 100 C ( 212 F)
VAPOR PRESSURE(MM HG): 17.5
MELTING POINT: 0 C ( 32 F)
VAPOR DENSITY(AIR=1): N/A
SPECIFIC GRAVITY: 1.00
EVAPORATION RATE: N/A
SOLUBILITY(H2O): COMPLETE (IN ALL PROPORTIONS) % VOLATILES BY VOLUME: 100
APPEARANCE & ODOR: ODORLESS, CLEAR COLORLESS LIQUID.
TOXICITY: LD50 (IPR-MOUSE)(G/KG) – 190
LD50 (IV-MOUSE) (MG/KG) – 25
DISPOSAL PROCEDURE
DISPOSE IN ACCORDANCE WITH ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL, STATE,
AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS.
SAF-T-DATA(TM) STORAGE COLOR CODE: ORANGE (GENERAL STORAGE)
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
KEEP CONTAINER TIGHTLY CLOSED. SUITABLE FOR ANY GENERAL CHEMICAL STORAGE
AREA. DIHYDROGEN MONOXIDE IS CONSIDERED A NON-REGULATED PRODUCT, BUT
REACTS VIGOROUSLY WITH SOME MATERIALS. THESE INCLUDE SODIUM, POTASSIUM
AND OTHER ALKALI METALS; ELEMENTAL FLUORINE; AND STRONG DEHYDRATING AGENTS
SUCH AS SULFURIC ACID. IT FORMS EXPLOSIVE GASES WITH CALCIUM CARBIDE.
AVOID CONTACT WITH ALL MATERIALS UNTIL INVESTIGATION SHOWS SUBSTANCE IS
COMPATIBLE. EXPANDS SIGNIFICANTLY UPON FREEZING. DO NOT STORE IN RIGID
CONTAINER AND PROTECT FROM FREEZING.
DOMESTIC (D.O.T.)
PROPER SHIPPING NAME CHEMICALS, N.O.S. (NON-REGULATED)
INTERNATIONAL (I.M.O.)
PROPER SHIPPING NAME CHEMICALS, N.O.S. (NON-REGULATED
The land of Abraham
I'm studying right now the evolution of civilization and cities.
(USD has several courses on this with their mmw1, 2, and 3 series)
Univ of Penna museum has a lot of "MEGO" (i.e. boring) videos about archeology about that area.
Dr. David Nieman's lectures on youtube are the easiest ones for laymen to enjoy, although they don't have a lot of fancy pictures (I converted them to mp3 to listen to).
so what does this have to do with Abraham?
I have this book but this video is from the PBS series.
and of course, there was a large Jewish community in what is now Iraq until the modern day pogroms encouraged them to move elsewhere.
epicurious blog has Sephardic passover recipes here.
(USD has several courses on this with their mmw1, 2, and 3 series)
Univ of Penna museum has a lot of "MEGO" (i.e. boring) videos about archeology about that area.
Dr. David Nieman's lectures on youtube are the easiest ones for laymen to enjoy, although they don't have a lot of fancy pictures (I converted them to mp3 to listen to).
so what does this have to do with Abraham?
I have this book but this video is from the PBS series.
and of course, there was a large Jewish community in what is now Iraq until the modern day pogroms encouraged them to move elsewhere.
epicurious blog has Sephardic passover recipes here.
Gift idea of the day
"...Yvan Arpa launches a new venture out of the blue, and presents an horological creation crowned with a dinosaur's coprolite dial."or as theScientist calls it:
The DinoPoo Watch.
Craft item of the day
have an old IBM selectric typewriter taking up room?
well, put it to work with your computer.
Typewriter Computer Keyboard - More DIY How To Projects
well, put it to work with your computer.
Typewriter Computer Keyboard - More DIY How To Projects
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Stuff below the fold
The "WAGD" (We're all gonna die) post of the day:
Iceland volcano could have world consequences
1783 eruption changed weather patterns, sent poisoned air to British Isles
whoops. There goes global warming...
-----------------------
Webecoist has a list of ordinary ingredients you can use to clean up your house.
clean copper with ketchup...enhance hair with beer...use mayonaise to get rid of water stains...and polish your shoes with banana peels.
-------------------------
actually, my favorite "tip" for banana peels is using them to fix a scratched CD...
and BoingBoing posts about the Banana museum, with links to banana related websites.
------------------------
at Atlas Obscura: Scotland's secret nuclear war shelter...
probably not as pleasant as the one at the Greenbrier, which was an open secret: everyone living nearby knew had the bunker for Congress...
Yum! Bacon flavored toothpicks.
just don't swallow them whole...toothpick ingestion is a known cause of intestinal perforation and even can cause death.
----------------------
Free Passover music for download....(headsupBoingBoing).
Passover starts the evening of March 29.
----------------------
Finally, the quote of the day is from Will Rogers:
did anybody ever see a United States Senator in his home
State after the night he is elected? I have met ’em all over the world when Con-
gress was not in session, but never saw one at home. They are always making
speeches about “my fine people back home,” but they never want to see em.
So I hereby start a movement to create another week. Like apple week,
prune week, it’s “meet your own Senator week” and make him come home no
matter what happens to him.
Iceland volcano could have world consequences
1783 eruption changed weather patterns, sent poisoned air to British Isles
whoops. There goes global warming...
-----------------------
Webecoist has a list of ordinary ingredients you can use to clean up your house.
clean copper with ketchup...enhance hair with beer...use mayonaise to get rid of water stains...and polish your shoes with banana peels.
-------------------------
actually, my favorite "tip" for banana peels is using them to fix a scratched CD...
and BoingBoing posts about the Banana museum, with links to banana related websites.
------------------------
at Atlas Obscura: Scotland's secret nuclear war shelter...
probably not as pleasant as the one at the Greenbrier, which was an open secret: everyone living nearby knew had the bunker for Congress...
from their webpage:
... groups were meeting there and enjoying theme parties and dinners, without realizing they were in a top-secret government facility. They never realized that the Exhibit Hall was actually designed to be the work place for Congressional staff or that the Mountaineer Room and Governor's Hall would easily accommodate the US Senate and House of Representatives.
------------------------------Yum! Bacon flavored toothpicks.
just don't swallow them whole...toothpick ingestion is a known cause of intestinal perforation and even can cause death.
----------------------
Free Passover music for download....(headsupBoingBoing).
Passover starts the evening of March 29.
----------------------
Finally, the quote of the day is from Will Rogers:
did anybody ever see a United States Senator in his home
State after the night he is elected? I have met ’em all over the world when Con-
gress was not in session, but never saw one at home. They are always making
speeches about “my fine people back home,” but they never want to see em.
So I hereby start a movement to create another week. Like apple week,
prune week, it’s “meet your own Senator week” and make him come home no
matter what happens to him.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Monday, March 22, 2010
Musical interlude for today
I figure with all the hyperactive stuff about the health care bill, we need a moment of quiet.
Catholics use the word "contemplation" for what the hindus call "meditation" and the Buddhists call "mindfulness".
But if you are an atheist, ignore the video part: just turn speakers up and enjoy the music
Catholics use the word "contemplation" for what the hindus call "meditation" and the Buddhists call "mindfulness".
But if you are an atheist, ignore the video part: just turn speakers up and enjoy the music
The real story of those missing WMD
from improbable research:
As explained in US Defense Dept. document #2001032-0000041, ver 1.0:
A chemical agent monitor (CAM) is a portable, hand-held device capable of detecting blister or nerve agent contamination on persons, equipment, and elements of the surrounding environment…. Because of the CAM’s sensitivity, many other vapors cause positive detections....
As explained in US Defense Dept. document #2001032-0000041, ver 1.0:
A chemical agent monitor (CAM) is a portable, hand-held device capable of detecting blister or nerve agent contamination on persons, equipment, and elements of the surrounding environment…. Because of the CAM’s sensitivity, many other vapors cause positive detections....Interferents include the substance found in Wipe Number 1 of the M258A1 Decontamination Kit, Decontamination Solution #2 (DS2), insect repellent, brake fluid, burning kerosene, breath mints, burning grass, and ammonia. Other substances that can cause a false-positive reading include perfumes and after-shaves, food flavorings, and cleaning compounds.[92]
It wasn't lies about WMD's, they were mistaking Saddam's after shave for nerve gas...Don't forget
March 24 is Ada Lovelace day.
-----------------------
am I the only ones who think the irony of the promiscuous "Romantic" poets, who destroyed the lives of the women who they seduced/married etc. are now rarely read except under duress, while Bryon's daughter (who he abandoned) helped give birth to the computer, and Shelley's wife (Who he cheated on, with her sister) is remembered for the Frankenstein myth...
Medical stuff below the fold
Freezing breast cancer?
new ways to measure it was frozen enough, and better viewing the cancer with MRI mean this could replace open biopsy in some women.
------------------------
Minocycline for HIV:
it's not just for acne anymore...
0------------------
the perils of plastic.
one of these days, we'll find out more about these things. Whether or not it is worth going back to pottery and glass is another question.
-------------
Does your cholesterol medicine make you more likely to get infected?
we've known for years some folks get "achy" on the statins, but now there is a question on how it affects the immune system.
--------------
are docs overtreating diabetics?
yup...the "clinical studies" use "good" patients who follow the doctor's orders...the rest of us have ordinary folks who forget their medicines and go out for beer and pizza on a Friday night.
----------------------
Bad Cripple disses those who think the imperfect are better off dead, and want to help them to become dead.
Yes, not only is it predjudice, it's now official in those "QALY" (quality of life years) criteria that decide if you are worth treating...
If you don't believe him, check out why the Lockerbie bomber is still alive....
-------------------
Don't stop getting pap smears..
.the HPV test isn't as good as they thought it was...
----------------
new ways to measure it was frozen enough, and better viewing the cancer with MRI mean this could replace open biopsy in some women.
------------------------
Minocycline for HIV:
it's not just for acne anymore...
0------------------
the perils of plastic.
one of these days, we'll find out more about these things. Whether or not it is worth going back to pottery and glass is another question.
-------------
Does your cholesterol medicine make you more likely to get infected?
we've known for years some folks get "achy" on the statins, but now there is a question on how it affects the immune system.
--------------
are docs overtreating diabetics?
yup...the "clinical studies" use "good" patients who follow the doctor's orders...the rest of us have ordinary folks who forget their medicines and go out for beer and pizza on a Friday night.
----------------------
Bad Cripple disses those who think the imperfect are better off dead, and want to help them to become dead.
Yes, not only is it predjudice, it's now official in those "QALY" (quality of life years) criteria that decide if you are worth treating...
If you don't believe him, check out why the Lockerbie bomber is still alive....
-------------------
Don't stop getting pap smears..
.the HPV test isn't as good as they thought it was...
----------------
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Goldfish take two
About the only thing I can find that is "controversial" about Goldfish is that they are one of the symbols of Nowruz, the Persian newyear festival...along with apples, barley sprouts, and eggs....
One lovely Iranian film, the White Balloon (1995), was about a little girl who wanted a pretty goldfish for the celbration.
-------------------
...an Iranian American Freeper started a discussion on the holiday at FR...for more information...
One lovely Iranian film, the White Balloon (1995), was about a little girl who wanted a pretty goldfish for the celbration.
-------------------
...an Iranian American Freeper started a discussion on the holiday at FR...for more information...
Bees in Space!
via Improbable research:
if you are planning to grow your own veggies in space, having some bees there will make pollinating them easier (the alternative is to do it by hand).
--------------
Improbable research also notes:
Britain’s Local Government Association has issued its new (2010) list of “250 words the public sector shouldn’t use.”
some examples:
* Trialogue
* Wellderly
* Goldfish bowl facilitated conversation
* Tonality
* Webinar
* Under-capacitated
* Clienting
no, I have no idea why the "goldfish bolw facilitated conversation" is banned.
History stuff below the fold
Boudicca, the bigot? Only if you are so PC that you think defending your family's heritage is wrong.
the irony, as the article points out, is that Boudica was a Celt who opposed Rome and civilization, not an Anglo Saxon:
------------------------
While the "Cutting edge" of animation seems to be 3D, this film uses an interesting 2D style of animation>
----------------------
the irony, as the article points out, is that Boudica was a Celt who opposed Rome and civilization, not an Anglo Saxon:
------------------------
While the "Cutting edge" of animation seems to be 3D, this film uses an interesting 2D style of animation>
The Secret of Kells - Disney Trailer from Cartoon Saloon on Vimeo.
----------------------
Podcast of the week
"...On September 18, 2006, Anousheh Ansari became the first astronaut of Iranian descent, the first female private space explorer, and the fourth person ever to purchase a ride into space. ...Ansari immigrated to the United States when she was 16 years old. Eventually, as co-founder of Telecom Technologies, she amassed a personal fortune that would fund her way to the International Space Station. The blog she maintained while in space attracted a record 25 million readers; My Dream of the Stars is her account of her groundbreaking journey. More than just an astronaut story, her memoir is a message of hope for people struggling to overcome economic and cultural barriers. Co-author of My Dream of Stars, Homer Hickam wrote the no. 1 New York TimesRocket Boys , which was adapted into the major theatrical release, October Sky.
Listen to MP3 audio
----------------------
In a space related Item: Hubble, the IMax film: website has info on Hubble and wallpapers
Listen to MP3 audio
----------------------
In a space related Item: Hubble, the IMax film: website has info on Hubble and wallpapers
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Lenten stuff
Living in Season suggests spending a time "listening" during lent.
and links to a site that instructs you via newsletter on "lectio divina", an ancient Benedictine way to contemplate deeply on what you just read.
-----------------------------------
ArtEspirit blog has a different approach: a diary where you sketch every day.
"Here's what Chronicle has to say: Visual journaling is ...the practice of daily sketching allows budding artists to capture impressions that might otherwise pass them by, to see the evolution and rhythm of their thoughts and inspiration. "
----------------------
AveMariaBlog has a list by Pope John (aka the "Happy pope)on how to live one day at a time:
Me, I'm not "spiritual" (I'm lucky if I manage to get through my daily rosary without distractions).
But doing a good deed is as good as a prayer,
so I cleaned out the fishpond yesterday.
The algae is blooming, and I didn't want the fish to suffer, and the staff is busy getting ready for the harvest; instead of waiting for the staff to have time to do it, I did it and "offered it up" to the Lord...
Yes, Catholics have a fancy name for that practice too.
and links to a site that instructs you via newsletter on "lectio divina", an ancient Benedictine way to contemplate deeply on what you just read.
-----------------------------------
ArtEspirit blog has a different approach: a diary where you sketch every day.
"Here's what Chronicle has to say: Visual journaling is ...the practice of daily sketching allows budding artists to capture impressions that might otherwise pass them by, to see the evolution and rhythm of their thoughts and inspiration. "
----------------------
AveMariaBlog has a list by Pope John (aka the "Happy pope)on how to live one day at a time:
1) Only for today, I will seek to live the livelong day positively without wishing to solve the problems of my life all at once.
2) Only for today, I will take the greatest care of my appearance: I will dress modestly; I will not raise my voice; I will be courteous in my behavior; I will not criticize anyone; I will not claim to improve or to discipline anyone except myself.
3) Only for today, I will be happy in the certainty that I was created to be happy, not only in the other world but also in this one.
4) Only for today, I will adapt to circumstances, without requiring all circumstances to be adapted to my own wishes.
5) Only for today, I will devote ten minutes of my time to some good reading, remembering that just as food is necessary to the life of the body, so good reading is necessary to the life of the soul.
6) Only for today, I will do one good deed and not tell anyone about it.
7) Only for today, I will do at least one thing I do not like doing; and if my feelingsClre hurt, I will make sure that no one notices.
8.) Only for today, I will make a plan for myself: I may not follow it to the letter, but I will make. it And I will be on guard against two evils: hastiness and indecision.
9) Only for today, I will firmly believe, despite appearances, that the good Providence of God cares for me as no one else who exists in this world.
10) Only for today, I will have no fears. In particular, I will not be afraid to enjoy what is beautiful and to believe in goodness. Indeed, for twelve hours I can certainly do what might cause me consternation were I to believe I had to do it all my life.
BLESSED JOHN XXIII
---------------------------Me, I'm not "spiritual" (I'm lucky if I manage to get through my daily rosary without distractions).
But doing a good deed is as good as a prayer,
so I cleaned out the fishpond yesterday.
The algae is blooming, and I didn't want the fish to suffer, and the staff is busy getting ready for the harvest; instead of waiting for the staff to have time to do it, I did it and "offered it up" to the Lord...
Yes, Catholics have a fancy name for that practice too.
Fess Parker RIP
Actor Fess Parker, the actor who portrayed both Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone, has died.
Brian Sibley remembers him fondly... and links to this:
---------------------------
A piece of trivia about the real Davy Crockett: Most people know about "Davy Crockett Indian Fighter" and Davy Crockett at the Alamo" but did you know this:
As a congressman, Crockett vehemently opposed many of the policies of President Andrew Jackson, most notably the Indian Removal Act. Crockett's opposition to Jackson's policies led to his defeat in the 1834 elections...
Hmm...Davy Crockett, defender of minority rights...
Brian Sibley remembers him fondly... and links to this:
---------------------------
A piece of trivia about the real Davy Crockett: Most people know about "Davy Crockett Indian Fighter" and Davy Crockett at the Alamo" but did you know this:
As a congressman, Crockett vehemently opposed many of the policies of President Andrew Jackson, most notably the Indian Removal Act. Crockett's opposition to Jackson's policies led to his defeat in the 1834 elections...
Hmm...Davy Crockett, defender of minority rights...
Friday, March 19, 2010
Reindeer, take two
You all problably know about this crime:
ah, but did you know the real story behind the song?
ah, but did you know the real story behind the song?
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Free broadband? the dark side
Long but interesting post about security problems that could arise, from bit torrent to having Big Brother put information about all your energy use on line...
then there is the question of privacy in medical records...link2...
we had our (MS DOS) records get infected ten years back, and it was a mess. Of course, this was only the summary of patient problems and what medicines they were taking, and we still had the large paper charts, but still, it was a mess.
I suspect most offices will end up using a "cheat sheet" for each patient, so we don't get too lost in the trivia that the government now asks us to document.
And, of course, a lot of the really private things won't get into the medical records....
---------------------------------
and then there is the story of the hacker who disabled cars....with this explanation on how he did it
"...an intruder ran amok in a web-based vehicle-immobilization system normally used to get the attention of consumers delinquent in their auto payments...."
then there is the question of privacy in medical records...link2...
we had our (MS DOS) records get infected ten years back, and it was a mess. Of course, this was only the summary of patient problems and what medicines they were taking, and we still had the large paper charts, but still, it was a mess.
I suspect most offices will end up using a "cheat sheet" for each patient, so we don't get too lost in the trivia that the government now asks us to document.
And, of course, a lot of the really private things won't get into the medical records....
---------------------------------
and then there is the story of the hacker who disabled cars....with this explanation on how he did it
"...an intruder ran amok in a web-based vehicle-immobilization system normally used to get the attention of consumers delinquent in their auto payments...."
Stuff below the fold
An Irish Blessing....
Tea at Trianon reminds us that bards and poets have always been held in high esteem in Ireland.
------------------------
And via Epi-Log: lots of recipes for Irish soda bread.
-------------------------------------
and yes, Viriginia, there really is such a thing as arugula:
if we made it here with local ingredients, it would have to be mustard greens, carabao-yogurt cheese, carmelized red onions, and pili nuts.
--------------------------
Librivox has a new "coffee break collection" of essays and short stories for your pleasure
-----------------------------
Spring festival time.
For Iranians and others in Central Asia: Happy Nowruz.
Tehran 24 has photos of the fire festival, Chaharshanbe Suri, a festival which goes back 3700 years,and which is celebrated in that country at the start of Nowruz.
Tea at Trianon reminds us that bards and poets have always been held in high esteem in Ireland.
------------------------
And via Epi-Log: lots of recipes for Irish soda bread.
-------------------------------------
and yes, Viriginia, there really is such a thing as arugula:
Arugula Salad with Caramelized Onions, Goat Cheese, and Candied Walnuts
Bon Appétit, March 2010
if we made it here with local ingredients, it would have to be mustard greens, carabao-yogurt cheese, carmelized red onions, and pili nuts.
--------------------------
Librivox has a new "coffee break collection" of essays and short stories for your pleasure
-----------------------------
Spring festival time.
For Iranians and others in Central Asia: Happy Nowruz.
Tehran 24 has photos of the fire festival, Chaharshanbe Suri, a festival which goes back 3700 years,and which is celebrated in that country at the start of Nowruz.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Stuff below the fold
First came the TeaParty protests, then the coffee Party meetings.
now, get ready for the "let'm eat cake" protests.
Angry home bakers are planning to cook up some tasty treats outside City Hall in New York City on Wednesday to protest the Schools Chancellor's edict banning homemade goods for bake sales while allowing packaged snacks such as chips and toaster pastries.
Read More http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/blogs/editor/2010/03/flour-will-fly-in-protest-bakeoff.html#ixzz0iOYjYcwI
------------------
another problem with "green" hydroelectric dams:
Locals don't like being displaced.
Sigh.
that is why many indigenous folks, including some Chinese, identified with the Na'vi in Avatar...
-----------------------------
the LATimes makes the story "Oh the poor Rhinos".
but the real story is government corruption...more here.
now, get ready for the "let'm eat cake" protests.
Angry home bakers are planning to cook up some tasty treats outside City Hall in New York City on Wednesday to protest the Schools Chancellor's edict banning homemade goods for bake sales while allowing packaged snacks such as chips and toaster pastries.
Read More http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/blogs/editor/2010/03/flour-will-fly-in-protest-bakeoff.html#ixzz0iOYjYcwI
------------------
Locals don't like being displaced.
Sigh.
that is why many indigenous folks, including some Chinese, identified with the Na'vi in Avatar...
-----------------------------
the LATimes makes the story "Oh the poor Rhinos".
but the real story is government corruption...more here.
The Weird Medical Story of the day
what do Sarah Palin's "Death Panels" have to do with the Lockerbie Bomber?
Well, the bomber didn't meet the criteria of NICE's death panels to receive chemotherapy...no wonder Libya was aghast.
longer discussion moved to BNN.
Well, the bomber didn't meet the criteria of NICE's death panels to receive chemotherapy...no wonder Libya was aghast.
longer discussion moved to BNN.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Stuff below the fold
(images via: simondale.net)
I' m usually sarcastic about 1 million dollar "green" homes, but Webecoist has some homes that ordinary folks could make...including a hobbit home.
My South Dakota patients used to shrug at the yuppies who promoted haybale and earth sheltered homes being new: heck, that's like my grandmother's sod home, said one.
==============
Classics Professor Mary Beard gives a talk in Madison Wisconsin and discovers a new Obama product that will not be mentioned on this G rated blog, but the hint is that she doubts Gordon Brown would ever inspire such a gift.
--------------------
Upload your favorite photo of Fluffy or Fido at Petrait, who is trying to break the world record of pet photos.
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Hungry, but watching your calories?
well, try some micro popcorn....
you can serve it from your desktop popcorn popping machine.
on the other hand, don't try this at home:
The Pillars of the Earth
the miniseries is coming...
don't know where it will be shown here in Asia, but reports are that in the US it will be shown on Starz.
headlines below the fold
will there soon be a vaccine for Buggy Creek fever?
like dengue, it is spread by mosquitos, and rarely fatal, but can cause months of aches and pains after the infection.
---------------------------
The "scandals" in Europe on the Vatican? What, no abuse in public schools? Only those who say promiscuity is okay, because Jesus hung out with sinners get a good press.
But Catholics can be comforted that it's not as bad as during the Renaissance:
Check out this history lesson at StrategyPage's CIC.
hmmm...even the good Catholic politicians in the Philippines aren't that bad...
------------------------------------
the true believer syndrome and terrorism.
-----------------------
the medical headline of the day:
like dengue, it is spread by mosquitos, and rarely fatal, but can cause months of aches and pains after the infection.
---------------------------
The "scandals" in Europe on the Vatican? What, no abuse in public schools? Only those who say promiscuity is okay, because Jesus hung out with sinners get a good press.
But Catholics can be comforted that it's not as bad as during the Renaissance:
Check out this history lesson at StrategyPage's CIC.
hmmm...even the good Catholic politicians in the Philippines aren't that bad...
------------------------------------
the true believer syndrome and terrorism.
-----------------------
the medical headline of the day:
Longer Eyelashes Possible With New Medical Treatment
Monday, March 15, 2010
Family news
Well, the new palenke opened, but the vendors who only come on Palenke day (Monday morning) now don't want to move there because it costs too much.
So the mayor told them they can't use the street or vacant lot across from the town square.
So last week, the two vacant lots across the streets from us were bulldozed flat, and gravel added...and yesterday afternoon, the vendors were there putting up the stalls to sell stuff.
They wanted to use our wall to hang the tarps to keep the sun off, so I said okay. Then a few asked if they could set up on our side of the street...Lolo said okay but what will you pay us? We settled for 50 pesos a meter...
So this morning, the clothing and hardware and cd stores are all over the place.
By ten am however the mayor found out, and sent the cops to shut them down...guess she needs the money to keep her hubby out of jail...
So the mayor told them they can't use the street or vacant lot across from the town square.
So last week, the two vacant lots across the streets from us were bulldozed flat, and gravel added...and yesterday afternoon, the vendors were there putting up the stalls to sell stuff.
They wanted to use our wall to hang the tarps to keep the sun off, so I said okay. Then a few asked if they could set up on our side of the street...Lolo said okay but what will you pay us? We settled for 50 pesos a meter...
So this morning, the clothing and hardware and cd stores are all over the place.
By ten am however the mayor found out, and sent the cops to shut them down...guess she needs the money to keep her hubby out of jail...
Headlines below the fold
FountainofElias reminds you that StPatrick was real, and has photos of Croagh Patrick, a hill that is still a place of pilgrimage.
------------------------
Maureen Dowd gushes about attending an avant garde art party in Saudi Arabia.
My answer on BNN
you think that's fun, try attending a prayer meeting...or a gay crossdressing party...and then really worry about being raided.
----------------------------------
Peter Worthington reminds us:Leonard Peltier is still in jail...
Time for a pardon, Mr. President...
---------------------
Headline of the week comes from StrategyPage:
Getting Shot In The Head Can Be So Annoying
the good news: He got his copter and wounded passengers back home, despite the wound.
Strategytalk's podcast this week is about China's cyberwar against the west...and their war against Google.
------------------------
and the big news here is yesterday's win by Manny Pacquiao.
------------------------
Maureen Dowd gushes about attending an avant garde art party in Saudi Arabia.
My answer on BNN
you think that's fun, try attending a prayer meeting...or a gay crossdressing party...and then really worry about being raided.
----------------------------------
Peter Worthington reminds us:Leonard Peltier is still in jail...
Time for a pardon, Mr. President...
---------------------
Headline of the week comes from StrategyPage:
Getting Shot In The Head Can Be So Annoying
the good news: He got his copter and wounded passengers back home, despite the wound.
Strategytalk's podcast this week is about China's cyberwar against the west...and their war against Google.
------------------------
and the big news here is yesterday's win by Manny Pacquiao.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Attention Miss Congeniality
“I think it's nerve-racking enough for girls to get up on a stage and speak, let alone appear in a swimsuit," she said.
"It's good the girls are being given a sports challenge in this year's competition.”
Miss England national organiser Angie Beasley said the change showed that Miss England was constantly evolving as a competition.
“Every year the girls take part in the various rounds of Miss England – we have a talent, charity, eco and now the sports round, which will replace the swimwear in the competition," ...
said Miss England, AKA Lance Corporal Hodge,AKA Combat Barbie, one of those behind adding a sports competition to the beauty contest, even though she sprained her ankle running in the Miss World competition.
Family news
Stomach flu going through the family...first Ruby then Joy and now Lolo...mild case thank God.
Ruby and Joy switched from Chano's Baptist church to a Pentecostal one run by her second cousin...Ruby will be performing a dance there today with the other kids.
To me, it's a waste of time...never listened to sermons even in English...I go to Mass to meet Jesus in the Sacrament, not to be entertained...
Friday night, the white puppy, who is now old enough to go exploring, fell into our fountain...luckily in the shallow part, but she couldn't get out and her yelping woke me up.
I wasn't sleeping too well...mama cat moved her kittens out of the closet in the spare room into our bed earlier that night.
Yesterday, we persuaded her to keep them in a crate in our bathroom...so far so good...their eyes are open, but not wandering yet.
the neighbor across the street died...he had a bypass done three years ago, and then angioplasty to his legs, but the other night had a heart attack and died. The street is now blocked off for mourners. Funeral later this week, when their overseas family arrives.
His wife runs a shop that sells dishes at the Palenke...
now that the new Palenke is open, the traffic no longer has to detour around our house so it's a lot quieter here.
Oh yes: Lolo is waiting for the Paquiao fight later this morning...the government is trying to schedule the "brownouts" so that everyone can watch it.
Ruby and Joy switched from Chano's Baptist church to a Pentecostal one run by her second cousin...Ruby will be performing a dance there today with the other kids.
To me, it's a waste of time...never listened to sermons even in English...I go to Mass to meet Jesus in the Sacrament, not to be entertained...
Friday night, the white puppy, who is now old enough to go exploring, fell into our fountain...luckily in the shallow part, but she couldn't get out and her yelping woke me up.
I wasn't sleeping too well...mama cat moved her kittens out of the closet in the spare room into our bed earlier that night.
Yesterday, we persuaded her to keep them in a crate in our bathroom...so far so good...their eyes are open, but not wandering yet.
the neighbor across the street died...he had a bypass done three years ago, and then angioplasty to his legs, but the other night had a heart attack and died. The street is now blocked off for mourners. Funeral later this week, when their overseas family arrives.
His wife runs a shop that sells dishes at the Palenke...
now that the new Palenke is open, the traffic no longer has to detour around our house so it's a lot quieter here.
Oh yes: Lolo is waiting for the Paquiao fight later this morning...the government is trying to schedule the "brownouts" so that everyone can watch it.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
what women want
Too all the girls I've ever know...
If you want someone who will eat whatever you put in front of him
And never say it's not quite as good as his mother's
..then adopt a dog.
If you want someone always willing to go out, at any hour,
For as long and wherever you want ...
..then adopt a dog.
If you want someone who will never touch the remote, doesn't care
About football, and can sit next to you as you watch romantic movies
...then adopt a dog.
If you want someone who is content to get on your bed just to
Warm your feet and whom you can push off if he snores
..then adopt a dog !
If you want someone who never criticizes what you do, doesn't care
If you are pretty or ugly, fat or thin, young or old, who acts as if
Every word you say is especially worthy of listening to, and loves
You unconditionally, perpetually ..
..then adopt a dog.
BUT, on the other hand, if you want someone who will never come
When you call, ignores you totally when you come home, leaves hair
All over the place, walks all over you, runs around all night and only
Comes home to eat and sleep, and acts as if your entire existence
Is solely to ensure his happiness .,
..
.
.
.
..then adopt a cat!
Now be honest, you thought I was gonna say... Marry a man, didn't you?
your email of the day from both TiaMaria and Cousin Maddie
(guess it runs in the family)
Don't forget
Sunday, 3.14, is Pi Day
WikiHow has several suggestions on how to celebrate
and Kitchen parade has links to pie recipes.
WikiHow has several suggestions on how to celebrate
and Kitchen parade has links to pie recipes.
Brownout time
here, 20percent of our electricity is from hydroelectric plants, and because of low water levels, we are facing brownouts.
but hopefully not during Manny Pacquiao's fight tomorrow.
discussion moved to at BNN...
Friday, March 12, 2010
science stuff
hit link for DarkRoasted Blend Blog's post on plate techtonics...lots of neat pictures.
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a propsed tower in Dubai will export ten times as much electricity as it will use.
----------------
attention ClarkKent:
Using ‘transmission matrix,’ physicists devise way to see through opaque materials
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a propsed tower in Dubai will export ten times as much electricity as it will use.
----------------
attention ClarkKent:
Using ‘transmission matrix,’ physicists devise way to see through opaque materials
Insomnia download for today
A guaranteed sleep inducer, from Librivox:
Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics.
and for your kid's Ipod: Short stories, including:
Selections from A Book of Nonsense by Edward Lear(1812-1888) – 00:09:13
Source: E-text
[mp3@64kbps - 4.4MB]
and this favorite:
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams(1881-1944) – 00:24:18
Source: E-text
[mp3@64kbps - 11.6MB]
---------------------
finally, the BBC's InOurTime podcast of the week:
Boudicca.
The heroine of the "bad girls get even" school of history...
more HERE.
Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics.
and for your kid's Ipod: Short stories, including:
- Rumpestiltskin by Jacob(1785-1863) & Wilhem(1786-1859) Grimm – 00:06:30
Source: E-text
[mp3@64kbps - 3.1MB]
- The Frog Prince by Jacob(1785-1863) & Wilhem(1786-1859) Grimm – 00:08:06
Source: E-text
[mp3@64kbps - 3.8MB]
Source: E-text
[mp3@64kbps - 4.4MB]
Source: E-text
[mp3@64kbps - 11.6MB]
---------------------
finally, the BBC's InOurTime podcast of the week:
Boudicca.
The heroine of the "bad girls get even" school of history...
more HERE.
What's your risk of having a heart attack?
Gov't webpage HERE calculates your ten year risk (Mine is 1 percent).
another calculater HERE but you need to know your CReactive Protein score, which I haven't had done.
my low score is from all the seafood and jogging...
headsup Instapundit.
another calculater HERE but you need to know your CReactive Protein score, which I haven't had done.
my low score is from all the seafood and jogging...
headsup Instapundit.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Congratulations, BryanBoy
The Philippines number one blogger and designer Bryan Boy is in this month's Vogue magazine fashion bloggers for March 2010...link to video HERE.
(That's him, in front on the left).
A Black Pharoah?
No, it's not a Mel Brooks version of the Egyptian, it's actually history...
Taharqa was ruler of both Egypt and Nubia (Kush) during the 25th Dynasty, which was based in Nubia, which had a long history of pyramid building, apparently independent of Egypt. His reign is datedfrom 690 BC to 664 BC. The pharaoh is mentioned in the Bible in the Book of Kings under the name ”Tirhakah.” 2 Kings 19:9 says:
Now Sennacherib received a report that Tirhakah, the Cushite king of Egypt, was marching out to fight against him. So he again sent messengers to Hezekiah with this word:”Kush” refers to areas south of Egypt, including Nubia.check this website
and check out Bob Brier's lecture:
The Marines have Landed, and other local news
yesterday evening, we had a bunch of helicopters go over: Some were transport types but others were the dual engine types that carry equipment...as if the training was for disaster relief.
Yup, it's Balikatan time at Fort Magsaysay...although the report is that the training will be up north, not here.
Right now, the main problem is the drought from ElNino...really bad in Baguio and the rice terraces of Banaue...
there is worry that there will be forest fires...and the hydroelectric plants may have to shut down...
it's so bad that they are discussing if they should build some nuclear plants. (Or even reopen the one in Bataan, that is on an earthquake fault).
Mindanao is the worst area affected by the drought
------------------------
The courts have denied a writ of habeus corpus for the Morong 43...this is either a major terrorist win for the government, or a major example of human rights abuse (maybe both).
-------------------
and in local news: Our new two story Palenke has opened on Sunday, with the mayor giving away money to the crowds (maybe they will vote for his wife, and he will stay rich enough to stay out of jail..it's not for nothing that they are assigning an extra 1ooo cops to the region for the elections).
It even has an escalator:
Photos from the NuevaEcija Journal:
This means the streets near our house will be cleared of kiosks, and that the traffic that detoured around our house will decrease.
Yup, it's Balikatan time at Fort Magsaysay...although the report is that the training will be up north, not here.
Training will take place at locations in the Ilocos Sur region of Luzon, the northern main island of the Philippines.
It will be the 26th year the two countries have held Balikatan, which includes military operations along with civil and humanitarian operations.
Related exercises to test crisis response and disaster relief will run simultaneously, the joint public affairs office reported.
-------------------Right now, the main problem is the drought from ElNino...really bad in Baguio and the rice terraces of Banaue...
there is worry that there will be forest fires...and the hydroelectric plants may have to shut down...
it's so bad that they are discussing if they should build some nuclear plants. (Or even reopen the one in Bataan, that is on an earthquake fault).
Mindanao is the worst area affected by the drought
------------------------
The courts have denied a writ of habeus corpus for the Morong 43...this is either a major terrorist win for the government, or a major example of human rights abuse (maybe both).
-------------------
and in local news: Our new two story Palenke has opened on Sunday, with the mayor giving away money to the crowds (maybe they will vote for his wife, and he will stay rich enough to stay out of jail..it's not for nothing that they are assigning an extra 1ooo cops to the region for the elections).
It even has an escalator:
Photos from the NuevaEcija Journal:
This means the streets near our house will be cleared of kiosks, and that the traffic that detoured around our house will decrease.
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