Who uses GNU/Linux?

I noticed this article which lists some high profile Linux users. In this age of layoffs, budget cuts, and "no funding," it's very surprising that the platform is not used/mandated by more governments and schools. The one laptop per child project has rolled out some interesting hardware/software, especially the second generation prototype with dual screens. It looks good, but is not planned for a mass rollout. That's too bad because I would probably buy one. It looks very appealing especially when placed
side-by-side next to an iPad.

Update: I am trying to get this idea started here. So far, it is the sound of one hand clapping.

Second Update: It seems that HP has noticed that Palm could help it extend back into the handheld space. HP will aquire Palm, as noted here.

Third Update: HP may switch Slate to use WebOS.
here.

Trouble(s) with Windows AV Scanner

There's no doubt that AV scanning is an important part of the Windows platform. Afterall, the raw count of Windows viruses is approaching 1 million separate virus. One has to wonder whether useful computing will be possible on Windows in the near future, or if all CPU cycles will be devoted to the antivirus scanner.

Meanwhile, this problem with McAfee AV caused havoc yesterday. Here is Slashdot's headline:
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Update: McAfee will pay for repairs. Maybe, not as expensive as Toyota's recalls, but consider that Toyota had already received tens of thousands for the car. I assume each McAfee customer has paid less than that. Most likely the repair cost equals the yearly subscription cost.
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Aiding Brain Function

This is an interesting report about the brain. A long term study shows that the brain's function is aided by both mental and physical exercise. It is surprising that the brain, like the heart, benefits from aerobic exercise.

The story is cached locally here.

The author offhandedly said that people should step outside their comfort level. "If you always watch MSNBC, maybe you should switch to Fox for a little bit, just to get your blood boiling a little bit." I guess that works for Jon's Stewart's writing staff- they can continue to dip into that endless pool of idiocy for prime time material. I have a better idea. Instead of "boiling your blood," how about giving yourself a real challenge? How about "engaging your brain" just a little bit more by trying GNU/Linux?

Maui via Google Earth

Here is a screen capture looking south across the northwest portion of the island. Robert and Ashley will be moving soon to the town shown on the right hand side of this picture.

Here is another with three islands visible.

George Frayne (aka Commander Cody) Interview

This was also an interesting recent interview. The story about Louis Armstrong being saved from a drug bust by Richard Nixon is a classic.

Peter Wolf (J. Geils lead vocalist) Interview

Wolf talks with Terry Gross about his career. It is interesting where he talks about inviting Muddy Waters and his band to come stay at his NYC apartment. This led to other blues greats staying with him as well, including Howlin' Wolf and John Lee Hooker.

Here is a download link

Another Discussion about the Meltdown

This week's episode of This American Life is another clear explanation of what happened to cause the meltdown. Here, the Planet Money Team work along with investigative reporters from ProPublica. This is a "must listen" radio program.

Another Discussion with Michael Lewis

Michael Lewis goes into more detail about his book, The Big Short, on Bob Edwards Weekend

Instant Karma

The latest Sony Playstation 3 firmware update designed to remove the ability to run GNU/Linux bricks the device.

My blog post hosted on another site.

iPad : The Anti-Internet Device

My blog post hosted on another site.

Significant Blame in the Meltdown goes to Alan Greenspan

The New York Times has an op-ed from Michael Burry. Burry is one of the cast of characters in Michael Lewis' book, The Big Short. Burry was one of the analysts who saw through the shell game at the heart of mortgage backed securities. This article says Greenspan had a duty to be a watchdog, instead of a cheerleader of our financial system. He details some of the cheerleading, after Greenspan dropped his initial warnings about "irrational exuberance" in the market.

Another Recent Discussion about the Meltdown

MIT economist Simon Johnson appeared on a recent episode of the Diane Rehm Show.

Here is a 60 second teaser.

Altair Computer Inventor : Ed Roberts (1941-2010)

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The Altair 8800 is where it all began for Intel based personal computers. Its inventor, Ed Roberts, passed away yesterday.