Happy New Year Cams

While online you can watch the famous ball fall and other activities! These cams are cool!

Happy New year to you and your family!

http://www.earthcam.com/

Will It Blend?

One of the age old questions that have been asked for centuries, is the simple yet unanswered "Will It Blend?" Well this wacky site and "instructor" show us just that. Many dangerous items as well as household things can be blended. See for yourself!

Where's My Acer Laptop From Microsoft?

Microsoft has distributed to TOP Bloggers a FREE Microsoft for review of the latest tech software from the behemoth. I am just wondering where my laptop is? Perhaps it is lost or has gotten stolen? I sure hope nothing has happened to it in transit. I have had a few things come to me broken lately. Microsoft, feel free to send me another one!

Saddam Executed!

After Saddam's Execution: In Baghdad's Shiite neighborhood of Sadr City, victims of his three decades of autocratic rule took to the streets to celebrate, dancing, beating drums and hanging Saddam in effigy. Celebratory gunfire erupted across other Shiite neighborhoods in Baghdad and other predominantly Shiite regions of the country.

For all the terrible things he did to people in his own country, his execution was swift.

Did You Get a Mac YET?

Just curious, did you do it for Christmas? One of the best marketing campaigns I have seen in a long time can be seen here at the Mac Ads site from Apple. The ads are very funny, and mostly true to life in their depictions. get a few laughs if nothing else. I have some very cool articles coming about some new things I am doing with my Mac, so keep an eye right here.

Photoshop CS3 Demo or Gimpshop

I had the recent opportunity to download the latest Photoshop CS3 Demo. Heard alot about it, mostly good, but unfortunately I can't go into any good news about the beta product. I could only use it for 2 days. Thus 3 days ago, I downloaded it, it said I would have 30 days to test it, and when I went to use it again today, it said my trial had expired. Mind you I never did a thing with the product, not one edit, or not one test. If this is some kind of joke or grand brilliant marketing scheme that the master minds at Adobe have come up with, I am not impressed. I don't really understand why I don't get the full 30 days if while I am installing it says I will get 30 days. It wants me to enter a CS2 code to get the 30 days of mere testing of CS3. I don't have CS2 and looks like I won't be buying CS3 either. For the HUGE cost they charge, you might think that they will want a prospective new user to have some more time to test it out. I use CS at work, but that doesn't even qualify. If you download the beta run in and thoroughly test in in 2 days. I will stick with GimpShop, a freeware Photoshop replacement that is cross platform, oh and did I say FREE!

For the Mac Version

or

The Gimpshop Blog for Windows Users

Letter By One Citizen About Todays Immigrants

Newspapers simply won't publish letters to the editor which they either deem politically incorrect (read below) or which does not agree with the philosophy they're pushing on the public. This woman wrote a great letter to the editor that should have been published but with your help it will get published via cyberspace!

New Immigrants
From: "David LaBonte"

My wife, Rosemary, wrote a wonderful letter to the editor of the OC Register which, of course, was not printed. So, I decided to "print" it myself by sending it out on the Internet. Pass it along if you feel so inclined.
Dave LaBon te (signed)

Written in response to a series of letters to the editor in the Orange County Register :

Dear Editor:

So many letter writers have based their arguments on how this land is made up of immigrants. Ernie Lujan for one, suggests we should tear down the Statue of Liberty because the people now in question aren't being treated the same as those who passed through Ellis Island and other ports of entry.

Maybe we should turn to our history books and point out to people like Mr.Lujan why today's American is not willing to accept this new kind of immigrant any longer. Back in 1900 when there was a rush from all areas of Europe to come to the United States , people had to get off a ship and stand in a long line in New York and be documented. Some would even get down on their hands and knees and kiss the ground. They made a
pledge to uphold the laws and support their new country in good and bad times. They made learning English a primary rule in their new American households and some even changed their names to blend in with their new home.

They had waved good bye to their birth place to give their children a new life and did everything in their power to help their children assimilate into one culture.

Nothing was handed to them. No free lunches, no welfare, no labor laws to protect them. All they had were the skills and craftsmanship they had brought with them to trade for a future of prosperity. Most of their children came of age when World War II broke out. My father fought along side men whose parents had come straight over from Germany , Italy , France and Japan . None of these 1st generation Americans ever gave any thought about what country their parents had come from. They were Americans fighting Hitler, Mussolini and the Emperor of Japan. They were defending the United States of America as one people. When we liberated France , no one in those villages were looking for the French-American or the German American or the Irish American. The people of France saw only Americans. And we carried one flag that represented one country.
Not one of those immigrant sons would have thought about picking up another country's flag and waving it to represent who they were. It would have been a disgrace to their parents who had sacrificed so much to be here. These immigrants truly knew what it meant to be an American.
They stirred the melting pot into one red, white and blue bowl.

And here we are in 2006 with a new kind of immigrant who wants the same rights and privileges. Only they want to achieve it by playing with a different set of rules, one that includes the entitlement card and a guarantee of being faithful to their mother country. I'm sorry, that's not what being an American is all about. I believe that the immigrants
who landed on Ellis Island in the early 1900's deserve better than that for all the toil, hard work and sacrifice in raising future generations to create a land that has become a beacon for those legally searching for a better life. I think they would be appalled that they are being used as an example by those waving foreign country flags.

And for that suggestion about taking down the Statue of Liberty, it happens to mean a lot to the citizens who are voting on the immigration bill. I wouldn't start talking about dismantling the United States just yet.

(signed) Rosemary LaBonte

The immigrants who came here in the 1900s made this country great, todays immigrants are tearing it down.

Cringley wants a Prius in Every Garage?

Robert X. Cringely is one of my most respected tech writers. I have been reading his stuff any been amazed at his brilliance for years. I just couldn't agree with this article. So I posted my response to his article on his Blog. Read the article then my response below.

I said: "This is probably the first article I have seen you do Bob, which I think you are really way off this time. There is no solid proof that humans cause global warming, only group think and conjecture. No one monitors the Sun, which is believed to be the root cause of this normal cyclic temp change on earth. We have lived only a very small portion of earths lifetime. Also, some scientists say that oil is constantly produced deep in the earth through convection, not created from dinosaurs. I am all for the tax breaks, but breaks to those who work for a living. Give tax breaks to tax payers who choose to install fiber lines. Companies would stand up to get all that business when consumers demand it. Please no more piggyback taxes on the phone bills or cable TV bills. If gas won't last forever, lets use it all up until we really need to create an alternative, then economics will create opportunities and alternatives. Also , I don't want a Prius put put car. I want a large "dangerous" SUV that can pull a load or tow a trailer, or cut through snow a foot deep. Your computer tech stuff is brilliant, this one was wacko. ;-) If the US government would cut taxes, I mean real cuts, not cuts in increase proposals, real cuts say 50% of our tax burden, the money spent by us on tech would skyrocket. The market would determine that fiber gets installed, due to demand, companies go where the money is."

Iraq's Economy is BOOMING!

Thats right, thanks to President Bush. He has been long blamed for bad in Iraq. But his decisions alone, have started an economic movement in Iraq that can only be linked to freedom and prosperity. He realized years ago that a strong free Iraq is the biggest threat to the bad guy terrorists in the Middle East. And I guess he was right! Thank you Mr. President for staying the course! We now see you were right, and the Mass Media Slashers were wrong again.

See MSNBC Article

Rosie O'Donnell takes pot shots at Donald Trump.

Rosie O'Donnell takes pot shots at Donald Trump. Trump has alot to say about Rosie, just what the truth is, and response to the personal attacks. "Rosie is a loser, and she will take the View down with her". I have to agree.

Barack Obama Loves His Big Ears!

Barack Obama, the chosen one, said to possibly lead the Nation by running for President in 2008, has hurt feelings when you draw attention to his BIG EARS. Weblinksnewsletter is attempting to jumpstart a movement to frown upon and utterly put a halt to calling Obama: Big Ears, Dumbo, Obama Hears a Who, Baby Happy, Captain Ears, or even Otoplasty Man. Lets close the door on these terrible words that could traumatize our future leader. Lets hope if Obama gets in office, that the terrorists don't call him any of these names, or the "Prez" may wrongly unilaterally invade the Middle East. Be afraid, be very afraid, Hehe.

Racist Rosie O'Donnell

Yes, the very same Rosie who claimed Clay Aiken was spoken to in a homophobic way, herself did a brainless racist remark against Chinese speaking people across the world. Rosie seems to think it is ok to blatantly attack and make fun of Chinese people, but telling someone to keep their hands off of my face is not. This kind of humor was hilarious when All In The Family was on TV, but it is not acceptable today. You won't hear this from the major media, Rosie is a darling to them.

See the clip below to get the whole story from Michelle Malkin. Rosie the no talent hostess, who wants to digress to grade school name calling... Pull my finger, Poop Head, Nanny Nanny Boo Boo stick your head in Doo Doo. There take that!

Vista To Save Computing World - Best Yet - Oh Sure It Is!

Stephen Manes from PC World has a very valid point. Microsoft hypes each new Operating System as saving the world, your time and money, and enhancing productivity. As we look back over the many releases since Windows 9x, we realize that the actual product never quite met the level of hype delivered. Great read, and entertaining. He even attacks Apple and the Mac OS X a little at the end. What an equal opportunity writer!

Warm Holiday Story "Gold Wrapping Paper"

"Gold Wrapping Paper"

The story goes that some time ago a mother punished her five year old daughter for wasting a roll of expensive gold wrapping paper. Money was tight and she became even more upset when the child used the gold paper to decorate a box to put under the Christmas tree.

Nevertheless, the little girl brought the gift box to her mother the next morning and then said, "This is for you, Momma"

The mother was embarrassed by her earlier over reaction, but her anger flared again when she opened the box and found it was empty. She spoke to her daughter in a harsh manner.

"Don't you know, young lady, when you give someone a present there's supposed to be something inside the package?"

She had tears in her eyes and said, "Oh, Momma, it's not empty! I blew kisses into it until it was full."

The mother was crushed. She fell on her knees and put her arms around her little girl, and she begged her F orgiveness for her thoughtless anger.

An accident took the life of the child only a short time later, and it is told that the mother kept that gold
box by her bed for all the years of her life.

Whenever she was discouraged or
faced difficult problems she would open the box and take out an imaginary kiss and remember the love of the child who had put it there.

In a very real sense, each of us, as human beings, have been given a Golden box filled with unconditional love
and kisses from our children, family, friends and GOD. There is no more precious possession anyone could hold.

Neave.com, Think Differently and Still Have Fun!

This website offers some of the more unusual Flash videos I have ever seen. click on the TV link. Or if you prefer you can play the Flash Games, many retro and fun. Like the stars, see the planetarium. The strobe can give you a funky ill feeling. Really worth checking out each link over there at Neave.com! Enjoy!

Time For a Mac

I have been getting swamped by Viruses for the last week, I received some 60 emails containing a virus. Not to worry though, I use a Mac full time. Seems that I have been impervious. Not only that, they seem just like junk mail, and I simply delete them. Being a Mac user has paid off significantly, even with the higher price paid for their premium hardware and software. If you are considering a new computer this year for the Holidays, I strongly urge you to get a Macintosh from Apple Computer. I have the iMac, and love it. So much so I can not believe it. Being a PC person from when the IBM PC powerhouse was the 8086 and 8088 processor running at 4.77 and 9 mhz in Turbo mode, really speaks volumes on how well they have done to ensure this iMac is well polished. I admit, there have been 3 small issues so far for me. But none have wiped out my data, made me catch a virus, or denied my connectivity.

Pro Wrestler Roddy Piper Has Cancer

One of my Idols as a kid was the famous Rowdy Roddy Piper (seen below with Ric Flair). His in ring persona as well as his outside real life persona illustrated that he takes crap from no one. His example of living life his way, to have the guts to be free from external influence and pressure, was a huge inspiration to me while growing up during my parents divorce, when I was a teenager. Rowdy Roddy Piper gave me a role model which kept me on track and independent. He has contracted Lymphoma Cancer. I sincerely wish that he is able to overcome this, and will have many more years to inspire! Please check out his website, and purchase items from his store to help him and his family!

Antarctic Ice Sheet Growing!

"Contrary to all the horror stories one hears about global warming-induced mass wastage of the Antarctic ice sheet leading to rising sea levels that gobble up coastal lowlands worldwide, the most recent decade of pertinent real-world data suggest that forces leading to just the opposite effect are apparently prevailing, even in the face of what climate alarmists typically describe as the greatest warming of the world in the past two millennia or more." From Real Scientists with real data!

The Alarmists and Enviro Crazies are all wrong. Earth is merely having normal temperature fluctuations as it does all the time, even at times prior to people inhabiting the planet. People have only been viewing mere seconds on the planets ecological clock. People do NOT affect the world climate.

Journey of the Shuttle Booster Rockets

This video shows the awesome flight path of one of the Booster Rockets from the Space Shuttle. It all begins at the launch pad, and ends in the sea. Wow!

Batman vs Star Trek

Racos Films has created a crossover parody of Batman and Star Trek. Not bad really, it has its funny moments, but the quality to detail is rather good. If you were a fan of both of these 60s TV shows, you may enjoy this mixture of old style TV video production.

FREE Weather Channel Widget and Screen Saver for Mac

I just grabbed these nice new applications for the Mac. The screen saver is nice. It shows the current temp as nature images display in the background. The Weather Channel Widget also shows the current conditions, but of course, displays along side your other Widgets. PC versions of Desktop Weather are there too.

OJ Selling Book on If He Did It or NOT?

This is a very funny Editorial Cartoon of OJ. Makes one wonder just what OJ had in mind. Sadly no matter how you look at things, it is sad that he feels the need to profit from the death of his ex wife. He just lost a book deal to explain how he would have murdered his wife, IF he did it!

Special Thanks to Troops Site - Connection Pointe Military Support Group

The site Connection Pointe Military Support Group has put together a special Thank You presentation to the Troops. I must say that their choice of colors for the site are excellent (they are using the same template we are here). See the presentation at the link above or below.

Say Thanks To Troops For Thanksgiving!

Sent to my by a friend, this site offers a chance for us to say Thanks to the Troops Overseas. Remember these brave volunteers when you are sitting down to eat a hearty meal and then watch football with the family on Thanksgiving! Simply choose a card design, one of which was submitted by children, and then send a Thank You message attached. It is easy! Brought to you by Xerox.

Keep An Eye on Judges and Politicians!

It is about time that Judges have an eye kept on their decisions. Many judges, once they are placed on the bench, either think they are destined to rule, or allowed to manipulate popular opinion. Neither is really true, and it takes new website like this Bad Judges Blog to do some of the work!

Also, Rhetoric Buster has a new BLOG and it sure is fine. The author, a friend of Weblinksnewsletter, is much more moderate than I am. I tend to believe more core Conservative values. But the information contained within is well worth the time. Make sure you check out the info on the CNN airing of terrorist propaganda. This may not be good for young viewers!

Both sites are good additions to your political research. Start studying for the next election. Don't wait until a few weeks before hand, which allows the media to manipulate stories and view points.

President Hopeful John Edwards Hates then Loves WalMart!

Yes see for yourself. John Edwards, the losing candidate for VP in 2004, always wants to change WalMart for the "better" and thinks they are bad for America... That is until he wants to buy something cheap like an ever important Sony Playstation 3 (PS3). What a 2 faced phony crap head!

Fact is that America LOVES WalMart!

Christmas is Christmas! And What Happened to Tolerance and Religious Freedom?

This was sent to me by a friend and reader of my website and newsletter. I decided to verify the article and have found the link. Apparently Ben Stein had much to say about Christmas and Tolerance. I couldn't agree more.

"Herewith at this happy time of year, a few confessions from my beating heart:

I have no freaking clue who Nick and Jessica are. I see them on the cover of People and Us constantly when I am buying my dog biscuits and kitty litter. I often ask the checkers at the grocery stores. They never know who Nick and Jessica are either. Who are they? Will it change my life if I know who they are and why they have broken up? Why are they so important? I don't know who Lindsay Lohan is, either, and I do not care at all about Tom Cruise's wife.

Am I going to be called before a Senate committee and asked if I am a subversive? Maybe, but I just have no clue who Nick and Jessica are. Is this what it means to be no longer young. It's not so bad.

Next confession: I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are: Christmas trees. It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, "Merry Christmas" to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu. If people want a creche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.

I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat.

Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship Nick and Jessica and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him?

I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where Nick and Jessica came from and where the America we knew went to."

Read it here for yourself!

Arundel Mills Dec 3, 2006 - Cancer Society Relay for Life

For those of you who live in the Baltimore Metro Area: Help the Cancer Society while shopping!


Shop, Share & Care

Arundel Mills Presents A Holiday After-Hours Charity Event Sunday, December 3, 2006 - (7-9pm)

There’s never been a better reason to shop…

Join us for an exclusive evening of holiday shopping, entertainment and giveaways to benefit The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life.


This special ticketed event will offer:

• Special discounts and giveaways at participating stores
  
• Free family photos with Santa
  
• Free entertainment and children’s activities
  
• Hot Chocolate with Mrs. Claus
  
• Face Painting, Balloon Artists, Magicians and Mimes
  
• Christmas Caroling
  
• Muggsy’s Holiday Corner
  
• 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid giveaway with WPOC-FM
  
• Enter-to-win contests
  
• More surprises to come!
  

Ticket price is $5.00

(100% of the ticket sales will be donated to The American Cancer Society Relay For Life)

Call Margie Neal - marnealpn"AT"aol.com (surgical striders - team leader) for tickets - 410-760-6845 or 443-848-9492

WalMart - Back in Christmas Spirit!

Great news for Americans, WalMart has decided to they will have "The Christmas Shop," formerly called "The Holiday Shop." Items are being branded with "Christmas" instead of "holiday." Kudos to WalMart to move against the politically motivated effort to get rid of all things Christmas (in name and religious context). When you do your Christmas shopping this year, remember which store calls it Christmas, and which ones are only interested in a Holiday.

Read More from the Star Tribune

See Videos and Info, as well as the new Christmas Commercial from WalMart

See Idiot Bill Maher bash gays while you can!

See the Bill Maher anti gay comments while you can. I posted this a few days ago. The DMCA has ordered its removal, and this all smells like a mini cover up from gutless cowards who know they shouldn't have been such jerks.

See it here on HOT AIR

Something New - Conservative Minute

Time to weigh in on the election. Seems that the Minimum wage was a major initiative that won votes across party lines. It is proposed to increase the minimum wage to $7.xx? Well why stop there? Why not make the Minimum wage, $15.00 or $20.00, maybe $30 0r $40? That way the poor would be lifted from poverty, everyone will be happy, poor people would no longer live in America. Our standard of living would out pace the World regardless of circumstances. Big nasty self serving businesses would get what they deserve, right?

Sounds fair right? NO?

Thats because we earn what we deserve, no more no less, based on what the market will bare. It is the law of economics. A person serving burgers just doesn't deserve $25.00 an hour. The skills needed are not worth that high of a fee today. They truly are NOT rocket Scientists. The trade of a retail attendant or hamburger cook just doesn't require the same skills as a Nuclear Physicist.

Wages go up or down based on market conditions such as the number of available skilled employees, demand for product, and the price of product. All of these should not be based on artificial external controls by a government. It is truly the American way to trust in the market and free enterprise. Free markets will level out and determine the best wages for workers over the long term. Minimum wage is a short term election strategy, but realistically doesn't help anyone long term. Prices always rise to meet wages, which in turn slows the economy, locally and nationally.

The minimum wage should be abolished all together. It is not an uncaring attitude, rather a realistic one. Minimum wage bills should not be used to lure voters into thinking they will benefit somehow, when they really do not.

If you want more wages you don't raise the minimum wage. You should position yourself to be worth more, get more education, more specialized skills, go to geographic areas where your skills are needed, stay out of trouble, get a high school education, maybe continue to college. There are things each of us can do to improve our salaries, none of which require new laws.

It is ultimately up to the individual to decide the salary they want and need, not government.


That's your Conservative Minute.

Liberal Bill Maher Attacks Gays on CNN

Now this is interesting. Bill Maher, who claims to be compassionate and more intelligent than many decision makers, actually bashes human beings that are Gay, on National TV. What a Jerk. Just because people are Gay doesn't mean they deserve pot shots and guffaws of laughter on TV. Shame!

All Segways Have Been Recalled

The Segway has been recalled, every single model! Thats right, apparently they had a software bug that caused the thing to quickly jump into reverse. It hasn't really grabbed the imagination of anyone except those who are zealous about the environment. If you have one, get it fixed, the company plans to load the corrected software patch on any and all recalled Segways.

Vegatarian Ice Cream Site

I know that many are Vegetarians today, and this site just happened across my radar! This is a Vegetarian Ice Cream BONANZA! The site has recipes for ice cream by vegetarians. I must admit that I wouldn't have thought it possible, but they sound appetizing. I really like and enjoy Soy Milk, and many use this as the main ingredient. Check it out!

President Bush Interview with Rush Limbaugh - Nov 1, 2006

Rush Limbaugh had the President on his show Nov 1st, and my friends, this is really good. I have to admit, the President has to be one of the more intelligent men in office, in DC today. I was stunned at his visions, and clear objectives. The President has been stating them clearly for the last 6 years, and continues to do so. You know just where you stand with this man. No changing stories to fit the times, no flip flopping positions. You can listen as well as read a long to get the full story. Do so as soon as you can. Thanks Rush for making this available online! Also see what kind of man President Bush really is, when he calls Rush "Sir" and thanks him. He is the President, the top guy, but has respect by using the term SIR.

John Kerry - What a Disgrace!

John Kerry took a potshot at our troops, our President, and our efforts to stem terrorism. Whose side is he on anyway?

Who Opened 36 New Stores in October 06? WalMart!

WalMart opened 36 new stores in October, over 8000 jobs were created across America. What a bang-up job! Consider that 54,000 people applied for those jobs, and no other establishment, even the Federal Government, has that kind of growth!

Also consider this fact, WalMart pays an average of $10 an hour, which is more than many of its unionized competitors offer. And typically when a new Wal-Mart store opens in a poor area, it receives thousands of job applications for a few hundred openings. So Wal-Mart's retail jobs of $7 to $12 an hour, which the unions deride as "poverty wages," are actually in high demand.

Bottom line, WalMart is good for America, good for the poor, and good for shoppers. Support WalMart, and oppose those who seek to tear it apart and stand in the way of American progress!

Read PDF about the October Openings

Read more on who is trying to hurt America and WalMart

Google 3D Software for Mac

Google has really made an impact on the software horizon that the Internet has to offer. They have a whole area on Google called Google Labs. Most of their software is geared towards the Windows majority of the population, but every once in a while they have a very nice app for the Mac. Sketchup is one of those apps, a Mac 3D modeling program, in both a free and commercial version. Worth looking into for the FREE price, and upgrade if you decide to stay with Sketchup.

Mac OS X Leopard: Parental Controls

Think Secret has a bunch of screen shots of the new Mac OS X due out Spring 2007. They plan to add parental controls, and they look very good, and easy to setup. Another reason for considering the Mac for the family room! You can restrict applications, of course, but also times when the kids can actually use the computer. See for yourself.

Search Music Lyrics!

Many thanks to LeoLyrics.com for switching me onto a song I heard a few years ago, never knew who did it, but always wanted it in my collection. I found a very cool site that allowed searching lyrics, instead of just the song title and artist. I place the lyrics I knew, searched for them in a phrase (all together), and Viola! The song is Hella Good by No Doubt! Now I can "Keep on Dancing"....

MatwellWorld - Republicans Will Win!

Seems that the Matwellworld blog is not alone in the idea that the Republicans will win the upcoming election. Major Republican leaders are becoming more confident, polls are showing strength going towards the Republicans, and the Liberal Media hounds are starting to call the so called "slam dunk election for Democrats", now a highly contested and very close race. I can recall in 2000 and 2004 when they said just this very thing. America can not afford to leave the War on Terror in Iraq, and most of America knows this. It is a just war, and simply hating Bush doesn't count enough to sell out the Iraqi people and our future.

Cardinals Win World Series, 4-1

To the surprise of many, the St Louis Cardinals Won the World Series over the Detroit Tigers! They played very well, made both brilliant defensive moves, and their offense was timely. It was a pleasure to watch, and the St Louis Cardinals really deserve the Win. Congrats!

For the Kids, check out the Kids Club for Games and info for the younger ball fans.

Rocketboom Video News

Remember back when MTV played music videos? They also had something called Music News? Well this site offers Video News, and boy is it whacky! Worth a few laughs. Check out Rocketboom.

Movie Event - Conversations With God!

CONVERSATIONS WITH GOD opens in theaters this coming Friday, October 27, 2006. I recommend that you go see the film. More films like this should be released in theaters and the best way for us to tell filmmakers is to show up and buy a ticket! Together we can show the movie studios and the liberal media that we will turn out to see a movie about love and compassion, not the routine Hollywood formula of fear and violence.

WWE Films: The Marine

Went to see this movie, and to my utter surprise, it was fantastic! The Marine is a well written inspirational, and action packed flick. It gives a positive message, and quenches the action gene we may have for car chases and machine gun fire. John Cena, the WWE World Pro Wrestling Champ, has some great skills as an action actor, and parallels or betters Sylvester Stallone in just about any of his films. I highly recommend this one for a fun afternoon at the movies! I give it 4 1/2 of 5 stars!

Online Pumpkin Carving Practice

Get ready to practice carving some awesome Jack - O - Lanterns right here (in Flash)!

Or try the Pumpkin Carving 101 site for Tips!

Have a great Halloween, and don't eat too many treats, or you may have nightmares!

Drudge Says: Rove says GOP will keep House and Senate

Latest news from Drudge Report about the upcoming election:

White House political strategist Karl Rove tells editors and reporters at THE WASHINGTON TIMES: 'I'm confident we're going to keep the Senate; I'm confident we're going to keep the House. The Foley matter has impact in some limited districts, but the research we have shows that people are differentiating between a vote for their congressman and a member from Florida.' MORE...

'It is useful to remind people what [Democrats] said and what they do. I think they have given us here, especially in the last couple of weeks, a potent set of votes to talk about. You had 90 percent of House Democrats voting against the terrorist-surveillance program, nearly three-quarters of Senate Democrats and 80 percent of House Democrats voting against the terrorist-interrogation act. Something is fundamentally flawed.' DEVELOPING...


I think whatever happens, vote with your heart and mind, not based on what you hear or read in the media! When it comes to Foley... Ever notice that Republicans resign when they do bonehead moves, and Dems deny everything to stay in office?

US Geography Quiz

This Flash Game animation was sent to me as a joke... Then I got to wondering, how many of us could complete it? The premise is that to get to the 4th grade, you need to place all 50 states in their respective positions in a minute or so. I played a few times, and was just not fast enough. My highest score so far was 45. I stay in the 3rd grade. I will keep playing until I get 50! Glad they didn't ask for the Capitol of each state!

Try the Flash Game

Teen Lands Job For $250,000 Playing Video Games!

I can recall when my parents used to say, "You won't amount to anything by playing all those games (or watching TV). Well Tom Taylor has proven everyone wrong. He has landed a $250,000 job playing video games. Tom dropped out of high school a few months back to play games. He wanted to hone his skills, and BOY did he ever! If you see Tsquared, which is his handle/alias, congratulate him. I love the quote, "I guess some people are just born with talents in certain things," he says, "like Michael Jordan was born to play basketball. I feel like I was born to play video games." Amen Brother!

World Series 2006 Playoffs

The American league and National league playoff will be in full swing this week. No Yankees this year, seems they got steamrolled by the Tigers. Playoff action begins October 10th, for a complete schedule check out the MLB.com site.

Detroit Tigers vs Oakland A's - American League

St Louis Cardinals vs. NY Mets - National League

MojoPack, Portable Data Storage On The Go!

Check out the Real Tech News link I just posted. This MojoPac looks like a very cool, and necessary utility to have. Price is right too, around $30.00.

Create Your Own Seal! See Mine Attached!

Here are a few links that are fun! Go make a seal for yourself or your website! I have been wanting to sell t-shirts, perhaps I could use this seal? What ya think? Want one? Let me know!

Want to create a Warning Sign? How about an image of a 45 record (I hope you remember those).

Hours of Fun!

Wal-Mart Across America

Can't visit every Wal-Mart across America, now you don't have to!

Laura, Jim and their RV, Wally1, are rolling across America without spending a single cent on hotels. Like thousands of RVers do every year, they are spending their nights at Wal-Mart parking lots completely free. The best part is they’re keeping an online journal of their adventures. Check it out at walmartingacrossamerica.com.

Santa Clause 3: Coming November 3rd 2006

Santa Clause 3 is due to be released on November 3rd of 2006. Back is Tim Allen, with a surprise, Martin Short! I really enjoyed the 1st episode, Santa Clause. Santa Clause 2 was quite wacky, not as good as #1, but funny overall as far as sequels go. Many of the actors from the 1st two movies are back again! Santa Clause 3 looks like it could be a very funny Holiday movie, and boy don't we need that around the holidays!

American Success Story Wal-Mart Serves Prescription Plan

American Success Story WalMart announced that they plan to begin a generic drug program for patrons. For roughly $4 a month, much lower than the current $10-$30 per month fee, a patron can get their month's supply of needed prescriptions. Hail once again to the only company in US History to trump Congress in helping the American public.

President Bush Addresses the UN

President Bush rolled into the UN and delivered a momentous speech. Had Bill Clinton delivered this speech he would be hailed as one of the greatest Presidents of our time. But since Bush is hated by the media, it will hardly be portrayed in that manner. Read the text (or listen to the audio), and note how Bush directs a challenge to all of the middle east, to choose peace or choose terrorism. He challenged the UN to do its job, and protect those who need it, and push for peace where they should. He also challenged those who have already put their lives on the line, to continue to work for freedom. A fine speech and one that deserves a nod from any Patriot. In a way, he has also challenged America, to put their money where their mouth is. 5 years ago, just after 9-11 we all wanted to get the bad guys and swore we would do anything necessary. Today we are weakening, not as united, and plain getting lazy. The long journey which we must take to rid the world of a direct threat to Democracy must be followed for many more years, many more Presidents to come.

Star Trek Classic Series to be Re-Broadcast!

I guess it was just a matter of time. The Trek genre was dealt a death blow by Star Trek: Enterprise, one of the worst incarnations of Trek, ever. What is Paramount to do to revitalize the legacy? Re-release it ala George Lucas. Thats right Star Trek the Classic series will be rebroadcast on TV with new enhanced digital music and effects. I love the idea! It begins September 16th, just a few days away. See the local release dates and stations. I also know that once it airs, it will be released on DVD, and if good enough, will be something all of us will want to get, myself included. Thanks Paramount for doing something right!



Actual New Digital Enterprise Image Above

Click for More

Washington Post Article - Democrats vs WalMart

I don't care much for the bumbling ineptitude of the Washington post, BUT I do like this article! When they get it right, they get it right, and George Will sure has! Check out this quote from his article, ain't it the truth!

"The median household income of Wal-Mart shoppers is under $40,000. Wal-Mart, the most prodigious job-creator in the history of the private sector in this galaxy, has almost as many employees (1.3 million) as the U.S. military has uniformed personnel. A McKinsey company study concluded that Wal-Mart accounted for 13 percent of the nation's productivity gains in the second half of the 1990s, which probably made Wal-Mart about as important as the Federal Reserve in holding down inflation. By lowering consumer prices, Wal-Mart costs about 50 retail jobs among competitors for every 100 jobs Wal-Mart creates . Wal-Mart and its effects save shoppers more than $200 billion a year, dwarfing such government programs as food stamps ($28.6 billion) and the earned-income tax credit ($34.6 billion)."

Political Leaders should be ballyhooing (thats cheering for the rest of us) a highly successful endeavor of one American Company. I bet if Honda or Toyota got into retail, they would get some kind of tax breaks. Especially if they had "keul" green shopping bags or some other farce that would be quoted as "reduces global warming", regardless of the price to consumers.

Chicago WalMart Friend, Unlike Maryland

Chicago lawmakers failed to overturn the Mayors Veto of a BILL that would penalize large businesses that make money and employee people. Good news for Chicago voters, and workers. WalMart would have been penalized and made to pay higher salaries in an artificial manner, no matter how the economy and the rate of inflation. Clearly Chicago believes that it is better to have jobs and a tax base, than unemployment. This is one thing Maryland has yet to realize due to the proximity of Washington DC and large salaries due to defense contracts. Chicago does not benefit from such a deal. Maryland, again and again, has attacked WalMart via legislation. Only time will tell if WalMart decides to take action, and reduce its presence in the People's Republic of Maryland.

New iPods Released - Gaming!

Apple has announced a new line of iPod players, from a new Large iPod that plays games, then the middle version shown, to a smaller easier to carry iPod Shuffle. Looks like some fine products. I am not a huge fan of the iPod, due to the iTunes interface which I do feel is proprietary. I prefer simple drag and drop file copies. However, the execution is fantastic, and iTunes along with the iPod is clean and easy to use. Check out the games for $4.99 each.

Apple Does It Again, Quietly

Yes, Apple did it again! What you ask? I didn't hear anything in the tech news! They released a brand new iMac, which is 24 inches wide! You heard right! 24 inches! The largest iMac to date. A while back I wondered just what they would do with the iMac, and this is a big answer. I had hoped for a 30 inch cinema display iMac, but maybe soon. In the meantime, there is no better time like right now to go grab an iMac for yourself, your family, as a cure for the Windows blues.

Steve Irwin "Crocodile Hunter" Killed by Stingray!

Sad news folks, Steve Irwin, best known for his Australian Crocodile Hunter Show, was killed while filming in the water off the Great Barrier Reef. A Stingray reportedly injured Steve, in his heart. This very entertaining man, as well as wildlife enthusiast, will be greatly missed!

Read the ABC News Story


See His Animal Planet Website

Apple Keynote Address Aug 06

My friends, you may recall I switched from a PC to a Mac several months ago. To illustrate just why, this Apple Keynote is really exciting, and the features which Apple plans to unleash through the next Operating System OS X Leopard justifies the decision. I urge you to watch the video, and see what they have planned. Some of these features may prod you to switch, alone. Watch the whole thing for a real impact, don't worry about the technical info at the beginning if you are not interested in that kind of stuff. The demos are astounding!

Ram SRT-10 510 HP Truck Review, and Funny!

Yes, the 2006 Dodge Ram SRT10 is a 510 Horsepower behemoth, that gets a whopping 7-8 miles per gallon. It is a 4 door monster, and I wish I could afford one! At nearly $57,000 it is outside of my budget. Word is this is the last year of the Viper powered super truck, get yours now!

Batman Begins PC Case Mod

As a Batman Fan, I relish the idea of having one of these. The creator made the case himself, good idea, and had to ensure it could stand, so the steel base is heavy duty. Great pictures from Extreme tech on this Case Mod. I doubt we can call it a Mod at all, since a normal PC case was not even used. But cool anyway.

Take a look!

Secret Personal Information!

I have noticed the television and sports personalities all seem to be doing one major thing. I must admit that I must join them in this endeavor. It is clearly about time to give each and everyone of you the whole truth. Yes, many are revitalizing their careers, wealth, and relationships, by admitting to something that is almost too intimate and personal to announce. However today these truths are embraced, sometimes even reveled in the highest corner of that which accolades can reward.
I must now unveil that truth, in a sort of coming out if you will. I am, and have been since birth a HETEROSEXUAL. It has been a large struggle for me, but somehow I have endured! Failed relationships, personal connections, and simply feeling out of place in the ladies bathroom, even though it was intriguing to walk in and hear screams of indignation.
I now hope and pray that you don't judge me harshly. That you find it in your heart to forgive me, that you allow me to indulge my deep personal feelings for the opposite sex. Matter of fact, my wife of 14 years may have been the only person who knew for sure.
No brokeback mountain for me. I am straight, and now you know that fact published here within these words. I proudly post the official meaning of the word from Wikipedia:

Heterosexual at Wikipedia

The term "heterosexual" was coined shortly after and opposite to the word "homosexual" by Karl Maria Kertbeny in 1868 and was first published in 1869. [2] "Heterosexual" was first listed in Merriam-Webster's New International Dictionary as a medical term for "morbid sexual passion for one of the opposite sex", but in 1934 in their Second Edition Unabridged it is a "manifestation of sexual passion for one of the opposite sex; normal sexuality". (Katz, 1995)

Heterosexuality, like any forms of identity is very subjective. In western society, one is generally thought of as heterosexual if one derives either all, or the vast majority of their erotic and/or sexual stimulation from people of the different sex to them.

Definitions of sexuality tend to be narrower to most heterosexuals than it is to people of other sexual orientations. In most cases a potential partner's sex is determined wholly by anatomic sex at birth and genetic sex. Many heterosexuals would argue that one whose determination of a partner's sex deviates from that criterion cannot truly be heterosexual. Transgendered people and even those with many natural intersex conditions are very rarely seen as potential mates by heterosexuals, even those who consider themselves tolerant and accepting to such identities.



Oprah and the Tonite Show, here I come!

Dodge Challenger is ON for Production!

Thats right, the new 2008 Dodge Challenger will be produced. Dodge President Tom LaSorda gave the final OK for production last month. 2008 proves to be a good year for fun cars!

More Wal-Mart Bashing Brings Good News Site!

The Union backed Wal-Mart bashers continue to attack your favorite shopping venue, and mine! So Wal-Mart has decided to release news on just what the company is doing in your neighborhoods, and how it helps out the economy. Business and profits are NOT evil my friends. But Unions telling lies about them are. Now I don't mind that Unions have an issue with a non-union store. I understand they want every place everywhere to have a union, so they can gather more strength through membership... But lying about the chain is NOT the way to go about it.

Check out the Walmartfacts site!!

Refreshing Political Views Right Down the Middle

A recent new friend, as well as a new subscriber to Weblinksnewsletter has a very cool site out on the Net. The site is more than 50% politically driven, but the author drives right down the middle of the road on issues. John prefers truth rather then rhetoric, and the URL to Rhetoric Buster illustrates his passion. If you want to read up on some straight truth, regardless of what side you lean, this website is the one for you! He does a great job of presenting links that offer truth, rather than political agenda based drivel. Most of you know I am more Conservative, but on many major issues I fall in the middle as well. I just hate excuses. Well, there is no excuse to miss this site. Since Election season is upon us, it is a perfect start to begin thinking of who you want to have representing you in DC.

Goto RhetoricBuster

Ubuntu Linux - Easy as PIE!

Ready to jump off the Microsoft train? Go Linux for a free alternative. You could buy a Mac, but if you lack the funds or confidence in the platform, you can use your existing hardware that Windows runs on, and "test drive" Ubuntu Linux. The download is large and takes a while, but you get a boot-able CD that won't destroy your Windows until you are ready to. If you are like me and many others, you just can't wait until the day you rid yourself of Windows problems forever.

Grab Ubuntu Here

Global Warming Cause Some Glaciers to GROW!

So you think you know that Global Warming is only harming, oh and that SUVs cause the damage most? I have been straight in the past that I feel that the Sun presents cycles of change to this planet, and that Global Warming is a necessary cycle the growth of the planet thrives under. One study even suggests that Global Warming is causing some Glaciers to Grow! That means that Global Warming is a natural force, and is a mere cycle of living, not man made destruction!

Read for Yourself!

False Media Images on War

I love to pass this kind of stuff on to you, my readers. When this kind of false propaganda is so easily placed in front of us, while mass media magnets claim they are doing their service, I cringe! Take a look at this well documented video footage illustrating how Reuters and AP routinely falsify images which are meant to steer public opinion. It is unbelievable!

See the Video

Weird Al Parody - Don't Download This Song!

Weird Al is at his parody best once again! His promo website "Don't Download This Song" takes pot shots at the self appointed thought police who would throw kids in jail for collecting music in a private collection.

http://www.dontdownloadthissong.com/

Wal-Mart NOT the Bad Guys!

Seems again in the good old People's Republic of Maryland, you don't have to have mass media on for long before Wal-Mart is attacked. If we take a closer look, we find that Wal-Mart is leading the Diversity Charge, and keeping prices at their lowest at the same time. I scratch my head at the positions that weak minded Liberals take against America's Success Story.
Read for yourself!

http://www.nysun.com/article/38463

Future iMac Design?

Independent Illustrator and Artist Adam Benton created a look into a possible future for Apple iMacs. The images were posted to Real Tech news, and I must say, sign me up! I love it. I also wonder if it is possible today, even if very expensive.

Take a Look via Real Tech News

Intel iMac Review, I Switched from Windows XP!

You may have read my review of the iMac G5 a few months ago. I was taken aback at the elegance and well built hardware and software, overall. So taken that I decided to purchase the new Intel iMac, and sell my G5. The sale of my "older" G5 (just a few months old, maybe 5) was surprisingly robust. The sale price of the G5 was very good, and I took a small loss overall. Had I sold my PC I would have eaten at least an 80% loss over the same time.
The transfer of data was easy and seamless. I hooked up the 2 iMacs via Firewire, and used the bundled transfer utility. All of my files and settings and even installed software was transferred to the new iMac. I have NEVER, bar none, seen a computer do as fine a job as Apple has done here with the iMac, and it goes a long way to justifying the perceived higher cost of the iMac. Once files and all were transferred, I disconnected, and my new iMac desktop looked and acted just like the older iMac desktop! I now had a clone of my original system.
My new imac is the 20 inch, up from the old G5 17 inch system. My 17 had no bad dots on the display, but my 20 inch, I just noticed, has only one in the bottom center of the screen. Not too bad and acceptable. But I did hope that the 20 would match the zero problems the 17 had in the display.
What I am sure you are wondering is... How fast is the iMac 20 inch Intel computer? It is faster, noticeably faster, but no screamer. Not a 3 or 4 fold increase, but some actions do appear peppier. No major numbers to illustrate, just suffice to say it is faster marginally.
The real earth shattering thing is that this Intel iMac is cooler. The G5 ran HOT, very hot! Around 135 degrees HOT. It has many fans that would run in the background, and the fans would step up if the CPU was under load. The Intel iMac runs at about 100-115 degrees under load. I detect no fans. Matter of fact current fan diagnostics available for free show no fans at all. I imagine that there is a CPU fan, but not the same network of fans that the G5 had to carry.
The CD slot is moved down a little, for an obvious internal reconfiguration. The connectors along the back have also move from vertical along the back right, with system facing you. They are now along the bottom back center 1/3 of the system. Minor change, but if you liked them on the right side like I did, you have something to get used to. It took me only a few days really. Power switch was moved from back right to back left!
The Intel now has many more freeware and commercial Universal apps. That means they run natively on Intel hardware. That is good, but I didn't notice any real slowdown on the Power PC versions. All my apps seemed to run just fine in emulation. One exception was the "right click context menu apps" that I had installed. I liked the app that allowed me to easily check folder contents total size. No problem really I am sure they will be re-released in Universal.
This new Intel iMac comes with a remote control. That all works pretty well, but is still a little clunky, and hung up on me a few times. It is not ready for prime time. But if you choose to use your iMac for across the room viewing of movies, or mp3 music through iTunes, it is a nice feature, and I would rather have it than not.
As a PC person who has had his career for the last 15 years tied to PCs and Windows, I am a convert. A friend of mine challenged me, "ok you wrote a review, now switch for a month and see what ya think". I switched for 30 days, and decided not to go back. I go to the PC and Windows XP on my other system to run just a few special graphics apps that I have invested money in, and I see just how buggy Windows really is. Don't get me wrong there was a small learning curve needed from going to Windows XP to OS X, but after that 30 days, I found the ease of use refreshing. OS X is not perfect, there are instances where OS X slows for a few seconds when doing allot of multitasking, and I have put the system through its paces, especially with running many applications in the background. I love to run many apps at one time, and the iMac does well. Better than my Windows XP system, though it is a few years older.
I have not done much with the Boot Camp Beta software, but I figure that I will get time to install Windows and run it natively soon. I just haven't had the need. For the most part I have found a Mac equivalent software package to replace the PC package I had relied on prior. There is a bunch of free apps out there, thanks to Linux and the developers who like the Mac and the Unix core.
Besides that there are no real virus threats on the iMac world. That sure is nice. I really like the iMac, and Apple has a new follower. As long as they don't get carried away, and hammer iTunes or iPhoto down my throat, I don't use them, I will be just fine running the 3rd party software that is available.
My suggestion, if you have PC troubles, get yourself an iMac. They are sleek, attractive, and run well! Plenty of free software, and they create one of the nicest DVDs in a complete package I have ever seen from software that costs much more than the integrated iDVD. iDVD is bundled for FREE by the way. All the normal apps, like iDVD, iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, iChat, Mail, and the Safari Web Browser... provide a great computing platform for Internet use. I also connect to my PC, share printers, and folders. It really is nice and fully compatible!

If you have a question or special thing you want me to look at on the Intel iMac versus the G5, let me know. And the ride continues.

Ann Coulter Points Out The 2-Sided Democratic Speak

Yes, Ann does it yet again. She has identified the two sided speak that Democrats in power like to brag about. Kerry would have done it better, but wait, he said we spent too much on war, but wait, now we need to destroy Hezbollah, but wait theres more! Read for yourself, I do like Ann!

Home Made Garageband Music Artists

The artists on this site offer some really good, and some great audio tracks. Best thing, listen for free, no signup, names or email addresses for Spam. Some really great music! Browse the categories, I found stuff that I really like in all of the genres. Artists seem to be getting their start here, forget Hollywood and the Music "Industry". Download the MP3s for free, and you can buy whole CDs of music if you prefer.

Fred Reed's Take on Universities

Fred has a way with words. No doubt that he will irritate some, upset many others, and make the rest nod in agreement. Check out his latest column about Universities.

Wow, See Skillful Female 10 Speed Stunts

Author claims it was filmed in 2000, this person needs to be famous. Where are the Tonight Show appearances? Awesome stunts. I doubt I could ride a bike normally with even a portion of the grace she has!

D-Link Routers Vulnerable to Hackers!

Apparently the D-Link Router is vulnerable to hackers. If you use them at home, and have your computers linked via a network, perhaps over cable, you need to be aware. Hackers can take your network down, or run arbitrary code, making your online data transactions vulnerable to all kinds of possible things, like stolen info, corruption or denial of service.

See article!

eBay to Raise Fees Yet Again!

eBay has stated that in August and CONTINUE into September, it will again raise fees. These fees will target legit business owners with "store fronts". I wonder, who is this good for, not the stores! For a company like eBay that is making huge amounts of profits, one has to wonder. Could it be that they want to compete with their own customers? Many think just that!

As an eBay user, I see that they charge for every single action, even those that really offer no added value to the sales. Where is that flat listing fee based competition I hear about! Could it be Google? At least Google has a page of other sites to choose from!

Unjust Wal-Mart Bill Overturned!

"A federal judge on Wednesday overturned a Maryland law that would have required Wal-Mart Stores Inc. to spend more on employee health care, arguing the retail giant "faces threatened injury" from the law's spending requirement."

Finally a Judge who realizes singling out a business is bad for all!

Help Our Soldiers

We are all a patriotic bunch, we like to think we would pull together if our friends and family really needed us. How about if our fighting men and women need is? Truth is that our government is a super large slow poke operation with political BS was of doing things. So home grown organizations like Operation AC spring to life. I have given to a serviceman overseas, and the gratitude was well received. I even got a bonus and had the guy send me a few trinkets from Afghanistan and Iraq.
Now they need your help, support is slowing and people are forgetting. If you have not done so yet, please consider giving stuff or money. What they need is clearly outlined on the website, basically...

Twin blankets and sheet sets
AT&T Int'l Phone cards
Men's sleep pants, sizes L, XL and XXL
Men's boxer shorts, sizes L, XL, XXL
Shower Shoes or Flip Flops size 9-15


If you can afford to help, please do!

Hulk Hogan's House For Sale

Ok Brutha, if you wanna have 24 inch pythons and live like the Hulkster... You gotta say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and have 25 Million! Yes Hogan's real life home, as shown on his TV show, Hogan Knows Best, is up FOR SALE!

Earth's Temp at 400 Year High?

One of the most rancid stinking pieces of garbage, which is being spewed as fact, is that Earth has reached a high temperature the likes not seen in 400 years. I just can not believe that these pseudo scientists actually talk this kind of garbage. They should all lose their so called degrees and be handed a shovel since they do know how to BS. Temperatures have only been recorded on EARTH by us for the last 100 years max. No weather expert can tell us what the temperature will be in 7 days let alone what it was 400 years ago. These mental midgets over at AP should stick to reviewing movies. The article even goes on to say that the scientists agree that temps are too high. So? Who really cares what a bunch of pinheads think. I want proof. Not one of them can garner a single solid piece of proof. It is all alarmist BS. The Earth goes through cycles of temperature rise and decrease, and has been around for over 4 BILLION years. How in the heck do we even pretend to know how the temperatures can fluctuate over hundreds of years. If there is one contributing factor to heat rise or decrease, it must be the Sun! Sun activity doesn't even get factored into this "science". Incredible!

Office Olympics

From the "Just When You Thought You Had Seen It All" Department. The Office Olympics site crushes any expectations of.. well... conformity. These guys take everyday office objects, and make an Olympic Event out of it. The Chair Leap, or Trash Can Slalom. Chair battles, and races. They have video to enjoy the craziness with.

Stop Eating These Bad Foods!

According to a Columbia University Cardiologist, these foods are the 5 you should avoid. The list almost seems obvious. Still, if you decide you must have them, moderation is good.

Time For Some Conservative Ann Coulter

Ann Coulter has drummed up some great publicity, simply by being herself. Her latest book, "Godless: The Church of Liberalism" is on sale now, and looks like it will hit #1 on the NY Times Bestseller list. I really love her books. She takes a tougher approach on the Liberal mind think. read a few of her columns and you will know why she is feared... She makes sense!

Fred's America

Fred Reed has an outsiders take on his visit to Washington DC. It is both interesting and a bit concerning. Is it me or does that Subway poster look alot like posters from the Soviet Era of 20 years ago? "Where are your papers?"

See for yourself!

Batman Batcave Movie Theater Basement!

I like to believe that I am a Batman fan. Why is it then that my buddy is the one who always finds the most cool Batman stuff? For instance, he sent me this very cool link to a high tech Batman - Movie Theater Basement Room. Woa, it even looks damp and cold like a real cave. The chairs are comfortable looking, motorized, and the screen has a curtain to give a real theater feel.

25 Worst Products from PC World

We always hear a lot about the best of one thing or another, or a compilation of the best sayings, products or people. How about a list of the WORST? Better yet, from a technology slant, how about the Worst 25 Products of ALL time. Great article, and a surprise on one or two items. Still I see why those items were there. Enjoyable article from PC World!

FRAM Boost Air Filter System

FRAM has come up with a nice new Air Filter replacement performance system for your vehicle. If you have ever heard of performance replacement air filters, you know they can be costly, and somewhat of a mystery to many. I normally use FRAM Oil Filters, so it is a given that I would be interested in their air products. I like the quality they offer. This website has some testimonials, as well as some details as to what the heck it is they are selling. Worth a look if you want to add some VROOM to your car or truck!

Computerworld Says "20 Things You Won't Like About Vista"

So are you all ready and anxious for Windows Vista? Hold on for this one, here are 20 things that will make you roll your eyes. Corporate customers will like the features, but as far as home users, we are left in the cold. We could just stick to XP, which is what I am planning on. No fancy Vista upgrade in my future. See why!

Observe Memorial Day, Some Gave All!

Monday serves as a very important day, one of the most important Holidays this country has designated. It has been placed to honor those that gave everything for the freedom we enjoy today. Just imagine standing tall and placing your life on the line so that others may enjoy the luxuries we all share today. Would you do it? Many of us would not have the courage to. Yet a select number of Americans do it without a second thought. I am most proud of those who serve, and lay down their lives for this country. Check out the link I have included for Memorial Day! Honor those who gave all!

Elephants Dream! Open Source Movie!

This site is hosting the first full length feature film, that is FREE. It was created with Open Source FREE software, and is likewise treated as FREE material. Go watch it, burn to DVD and start the popcorn! It is BIG and the site is very busy, but worth checking back to get.

WEBBY AWARDS

With a site and newsletter called Weblinksnewsletter, you must imagine that I like to bring to you weblinks of all kinds and types. Well rest assured, this link does that and then some. The latest Webby Awards (Yup awards given to the best web sites) have been announced, and some fantastic sites reside here indeed. Take a gander at the list of nominees and winners. Sure to be a hit at parties and hours of fun!

Go Get a Mac!

Time to go get a Mac, so says Apple Computer. If you have not already seen the marketing blitz campaign, you will. The TV commercials where the guy in a suit, the PC, talks to the very cool and confident young person, the Mac, offers the Apple view of their customer base. Now, I like the commercials, but could this be part of the Apple problem? Macs appeal to the younger, hip generation, but when they grow up, they abandon Mac for the PC.

I have an idea, offer a PC trade in coupon. For anyone who is willing to trade in their Pentium 4 or better, offer them $350 off the price of an iMac. That would get alot more attention then cute commercials.

I am hoping to hold off until August to get the latest iMac. You really should consider one for your computing needs.

Female Android Made in Korea

Wow, take a look at this one. This is a Korean Android or plainly stated, robot.

"The 15 monitors in the robotic face allow it to interpret the face of an interlocutor and look back at whoever stands near it. Ever-1 also recognizes 400 words and can hold a basic verbal exchange. "

Leather Clad Laptop in UK

Get ready for a new battle of features, looks and leather? Thats right, Asus will be selling a Leather clad laptop beginning next month in the UK. I wonder if they have any plans for any other skins or colors for their laptops. I also wonder if this will make it to the US, where style has not always been a priority. But lets hope it does!

Posted at Real Tech News

Hungary Bans Bio Diesel

From the Lockergnome Newsletter! Seems that in Hungary, they have banned Bio Diesel, which is made from cooking oil. Possibly because there are no state taxes involved padded in the price!

Gabor Kovacs: In Hungary, we already have a law PROHIBITING biodiesel! Smart guys discovered about a year ago that common household corn oil (used for frying food) is as good as diesel oil - but costs about 10% less! This is because in diesel fuel, there are a lot of state taxes, higher VAT, etc. - while household cooking oil has a "normal" price. There is no difference, except only the smell (which is better than diesel). So, because the state lost a lot of revenue, a law was introduced prohibiting corn oil. The police started sniffing around diesel cars (literally). But, many people were interviewed at that time and 99% said that their car (any car) ran better on corn oil than diesel! Funny, isn't it? Instead of promoting it, the state prohibits biodiesel - otherwise they can't fill their pockets.

See the article here!

Support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The Rush Limbaugh show has available a site to help kids with Leukemia & Lymphoma, any amount will help!

Chris Pirillo, 1st YouTube Movie, Hilarious!

Chris from the Lockergnome site did a very funny video on You Tube. Impromptu and imaginative. Need a laugh? Check it out!

Marines Rap CD from Iraq Front Lines!

Walmart is selling (along with many other sites and locations) a music rap CD in which the Marines and Service Men and women are the artists. This product is being put together by the people protecting America in wartime. They want to make sure the real word gets out as to what is happening. As you might expect, it has no similarity to what the Liberal Media is saying. Go buy one at Walmart today to support the troops!

Michelle Malkin Video Blog "The Vent"

Michelle Malkin has started a Video Blog called Hot Air. Michelle is a Conservative Journalist and Author, and one who has written some poignant views and honest commentary on just what is happening inside the DC beltway today. The Video Blog is well done and enjoyable, and I am sure will only get better with practice. Comedic slant highlights this Blog.

Michelle says, "I began Hot Air in part to bring more balance to the videoblogging world. But also because it's the next logical step in the information revolution."

Her Regular Blog is excellent too.

Way to go!

Leaving For Work Later Saves Money & Time

Those who know me, also know I prefer late hours at work. Imagine my surprise when this site offered statistic evidence that leaving later saves time and money! Just one more reason to work the late shift! If you take a scroll down on the article, notice the wealth of statistic and measures used. I would love to see someone take the time to prove otherwise. Take my word for it, IT CAN"T BE DONE!. ;-)

Tour Microsoft's Mac Lab!

This is very interesting, this person takes you for a tour of the Mac Lab over at Microsoft. Seems they don't do anything in a small way. The images illustrate that they are serious on supporting and working with Macs, as well as the sheer scale of the thing.

Must be the GEEK in me, but I love Computer Labs like this! I used to work in one years ago, and loved it. This is a dream!

Mac 101: Your guide to using a Mac effectively and efficiently.

Very nice site from Apple! It basically goes through the various things a new Mac owner needs to know, or a prospective Mac owner. Even if you have been a Mac owner for some time, I think the information here may be of value to everyone.

Mac 101: Your guide to using a Mac effectively and efficiently.

Global Warming Has Ended!

According to this scientist, Global Warming Ended in 1998 (based on actual measurements). This UK article outlines details as to why this is true, and why many have decided to ignore the facts!

Where Does Your State Rank In Taxes?

Take a look at the list, and see where your state ranks! I noted that the large and most "better off: states take alot of taxes from the contributing members. Check out the List!

"Run Windows XP On Your Mac" says Apple?

With all the PRESS about those hackers attempting to run Windows XP on their Macs, it was a huge surprise for me to hear this news! Apple has released and will officially endorse running Windows XP on the Mac. I am not surprised that Apple allows this, but was shocked to see that they actually endorse and are aiding in this endeavor. Apple does it again with a brilliant campaign to extend the Mac into more homes with the promise of Dual Boot between OS X (which is already a fine OS) and Windows XP (which is the Industry Standard OS). Time to get an Intel iMac!

Robert X, Cringely Says Microsoft Is Going Down

Robert has a very interesting article online. He believes that the last Anti-Trust Lawsuit member, from Iowa, will take a huge chunk out of Microsoft. "What do you do when your wealth is immense but completely tied to people whom you inherently do not trust? If you are Paul Allen you watch your tongue and spend eight years getting out from under that burden." He thinks Paul has done the right thing, by diversifying his portfolio. This could save Paul from financial ruin when Microsoft faces this final anti-trust suit. This could be very interesting!

Simpsons TV Show Movie in Works July 2007

Fox has confirmed to the BBC that they are working on a Movie version of the Very Popular Simpsons TV Show. To be released July 2007, the Simpsons is in its 17th season, the longest running prime time entertainment series!



See Simpsons at Fox

South Park - Bye Bye Chef

Apparently Isaac Hayes bailed from South Park, and they did a tribute show (so to speak). It was very funny, and NOW I know why it even happened. Read more!

Real Tech News Post on Bill Gates

Gang, I just posted what I think is a nice short analytical piece on Bill Gates' opinion of the MIT One Laptop per Child Project. Take a look at the actual posting on Real Tech News to learn more about the Project itself, as well as the coverage I attempted to provide. Let me know what you think.

Windows XP on Mac Patch/Kit Available!

This may be the single most compelling reason to purchase an Intel iMac, TODAY! Here is the patch/bootloader that will allow you to load and run Windows XP on that iMac. Grab the files as soon as you can before the thought police threaten legal action. To run 2 different operating systems on the same elegant iMac seems a very likable prospect in my mind. See more info at the original site, OnMac.net.

Apple iMac Review - Update

Folks, as you know I finished my review of the iMac from a PC Perspective. As I mentioned inside the review, I was accustomed to playing my DVDs on the iMac while I was working (sometimes) on the PC. It was a while since I did the DVD test on the PC compared to the iMac. Guess what! I placed one of the same DVDs I was watching into the PC and figured I would watch the DVD and work on the iMac. Well, BBBZZZT, wrong answer! The DVD while playing normal size, NOT FULL SCREEN, looked like garbage on the PC. The simple quality of the iMac DVD software display was astounding. I apparently had not done as fair a comparison as I first thought. I still stand by my original review, but as far as playing multimedia goes, the iMac blows the PC away, hands down. This should be taken into consideration when evaluating the iMac for your home or business.

Link to the review

To Apple or Not to Apple! (Part5 of 5)

Ok here it is, my final review of the iMac G5 and Mac OS X.
To see the first 4 parts you can click the links below!

Part1
Part2
Part3
Part4


To Apple or not to Apple! (Part5 of 5)
(or Apple iMac G5 from a PC Guys perspective)

Written by Will Wagner
http://weblinksnewsletter.net
Wednesday, March 08, 2006

This 5-part review sure has been an adventure. Right up front I want to provide a hearty thanks to those who offered encouragement, feedback, and praise. You all seemed very interested in what I had tried to write about. It has been a true learning experience for me, and has helped me understand a lot more about computing interfaces, especially non-windows and other windowing operating systems in general. In this, the final part of my review, I want to provide some final feedback, wrap up my personal experiences, and give you my recommendation. That sure is a lot to do, so lets get started!

The Intel iMac Core Duo has essentially made the iMac G5 obsolete. Not in the sense that it does not or will not work, but more so in the sense that Apple has set a future course towards Intel computer ships. Older G5 hardware will be obsolete in perhaps 6-12 months. Those interested in the Mac will have to consider getting the Intel version before attempting to purchase any G5. This is a good strategy, if you plan to purchase an iMac today; the Intel version is the clear way to go. This is the future. But should you? More to come on that shortly!

Lets look at all the negatives surrounding using the iMac and Mac OS X. Yes, Mac faithful, there are a few drawbacks.

Bad:
· I saw no easy way to back off of updates installed by Apple. Microsoft Windows has the Add/Remove software option in the Control Panel. Apple needs something, even some basic scripts via menu, to uninstall software for non-technical users.
· There is little to no commercial software available in the retail chain. I mean that you cannot walk into WalMart and purchase a software package or game for the Mac.
· The goofy one button mouse is stone ages behind the 2 or 3 button mouse. It has to go to eBay and you will need to purchase a real mouse.
· iTunes (and iPhoto) uses a proprietary database for cataloging your stuff. I really see no need for this. I would prefer a more open architecture for file management of your private materials. iTunes is a widely used application, but only because it is the only package to use with the iPod, not because it is the very best software.
· Not all of the settings are easily found and set in Finder. You have to manually modify the scripts or use a 3rd party tool for advanced features and settings. I know that Windows is the same with many of its hidden features. I have yet to figure this one out, unless they are leaving an opening for 3rd party developers. Oh and thank goodness for them!
· Heat! Heat! Heat! My iMac G5 gets hot. No wonder Apple has switched to Intel. I hope the new iMac has addressed this problem. The G5 has plenty of fans; they are just always set on low speed. Just not enough air flow! How hot is it, roughly 165F under constant load.
· .Mac is one of those extras that is disguised as an option, buy the entire OS is built with the assumption you will sign up and use .Mac. There should be a way to replace .Mac with your own personal webspace or site!
· It is not easy to see how much space a file is using. Allow us to put that info under each Icon as an option. Yeah you can choose a different view to display details, but I like the Icons view. In Windows you can click on a few files, and the total size is displayed at the bottom of the Explorer bar. I miss that! (There are 3rd party free utilities that serve this function, but Apple needs to supply it)
· Keyboard shortcuts are not shown on screen, in the menu. I admit the funky combinations are powerful, but for a newbie, I have to have a list of them plastered to my wall. Just put them in the menu!
· Thanks to Microsoft, flip4mac has given us libraries to open and save Windows Media files and formats to MOV. Apple should have supplied this one, perhaps in a conversion tool, but since M$ has deep pockets; all the Windows profits have gone to something worthwhile. Even if it is clunky.
· The iMac monitor base cannot be raised, only tilted. Why? Every other monitor manufacturer gives this ability. I can only imagine that since the iMac is so heavy, Apple felt that the neck and computer would not stay extended over a long period of time due to vibrations. Hence only a tilt neck is included. Apple is the innovator, get real, and fix this one.
· USB ports on the back? What gives? I have a few USB devices, and would like at least one on the side or somewhere we can reach it more easily. I have to admit one on the front would look like crap. I can give Apple some credit here for looks over function.
· iMac doesn’t come in a Cinema display? It should. I want a monster monitor with no cables like the iMac! There would only be demand for it if it were fast and top of the line hardware, like iMac.
· In Mac OS X you simply cannot change the size of the little close button icons or maximize/minimize button icons. You must be able to allow users to adjust sizes of these things. When you go hi-res these things are TINY! It takes me 3 clicks to hit it, and I am pretty accurate with the mouse clicks. I never have this trouble on Windows! Windows allows adjustments of visual queues and button sizes.
· The Dock on OS X is not as usable as the Taskbar on Windows. Don’t get me wrong; I think its appearance blows Taskbar away. I just like the way all open programs show up on Taskbar. Not many people like this as much as me, but I want to see all the programs I am running grouped together. The Dock shows little arrows on running apps, but that’s lame for an OS proud of its graphics capabilities. If the App is not minimized, it won’t show up on the Dock, too.
· Multiple desktops are a feature on just about all the Major UNIX operating systems. Apple dropped the ball here. 3rd party to the rescue! Unix gurus want multiple desktop utilities.
· The Mouse cursor can be resized, but the jaggies show up like Paul Bunyan’s favorite tree destroying saw. Again, for a supposed graphical OS, it should be a smooth transition if you resize the arrow. In Windows, no such problems! Matter of fact you can change the cursor all together! Nope, not on Mac OS X. Third party utilities provide this, but why should they need to?
· I was able to drop an audio sound into the default folder for my default sounds, but what about startup music or shutdown music. Windows does it, now! Not Mac OS X. The option should be there for user fun and configuration.
· Apple includes only lame OpenGL screensavers. Give us more eye candy! At least 3rd party developers have many out there for free, but you have to search.
· Installing software is not standardized. Sure most of the time you can simply drop into the apps folder, but some apps have an install script, others don’t. Why make the user drop the software into the Applications folder, allow them to right click on the app they want to install, and have the system copy it. I bet this could be done in Automator or through Apple Script. But make our lives easier; include the script on the file context menu.
· No Audio Input port, only Audio Output. This is supposed to be a users multimedia system, but no input for sound? Wack!
· No Newsreader is included. What? That is a deep hole that needs to be filled. A basic newsreader is very important to my online experience.
· If you like to label CDs, I suggest that you don’t use them in the iMac CD/DVD drive. They could get stuck. Since the unit is hot anyway, the label could spin right off the disc.
· OS X is built specifically to run on Apple hardware, so it is more stable. But not perfect. During a reboot that some virus scanner software recommended, the system hung up hard, and the fans whirred full speed. I had to power it off to get it back!
· Oh and the hardware is one solid main board, not much to upgrade inside, except memory or hard drive. Don’t expect to buy any add on cards or internal capture devices, no such thing! This could be a good thing, easier for users to manage, but your iMac system could become obsolete faster than a normal desktop, which can grow with your needs.
· My Creative Web cam wouldn’t recognize when I plugged it in. Why? It is no wonder that the iSight is now included in the iMac. One less issue to deal with!
· Unix file permissions and ownerships get screwed up every time you install software. Why? This sure seems like a major bug to me. You have to run the permissions correction tool periodically.
· Mac Icons are not easy to change, and your main foundation icons cannot be changed. On windows you can change almost any icon anywhere.
· Mac software, which can be found, is expensive! No wonder people prefer Windows. You may not get world-renowned software, but who cares for a few dollars we could toss it in the trash if we don’t like it. Most Apple applications hover around $100 but some are much more.


Well I wanted to be absolutely honest on my criticisms on the iMac and Apple OS X. I didn’t hold back, and really feel that these issues are mostly things that can be addressed easily. Actually, I see no reason keeping Apple from doing all of them cheaply. We know I can be a critic, what about the items that I really like about the iMac and OS X?

Good:
· Great sounding speakers! The size alone would make you think they would be only good enough for whisper music. In fact the speakers are great for standard speech and audio. I love the fact I don’t need to purchase extra speakers or hardware. Plus the fact that they are built right in.
· Talk about Hardware, the iMac is gorgeous! Flat, streamlined, simple, aesthetically pleasing, well designed, compact…. On and on! The iMac is simply the best looking and best designed computer, and that before you even turn it on!
· I found that the iMac was a great system for viewing DVDs. I simply love the DVD player software in my iMac. This iMac looks like a TV, and plays DVDs with magical quality. I could be at my desk working on a project, reading mail, or doing paperwork, and view DVDs easily, they sound good, and the screen is sharp and clear. A bit costly for a simple DVD player, but at least it does other things too.
· The iMac boots very quickly! Blows Windows away, not even close. If I were to compare equal plain vanilla systems, I think it would be a little closer, but still no contest! I even reloaded my PC do be more fair, the iMac still seems much faster at bootup.
· Even though the USB and Firewire ports are on the back, they are all lined up together, in a row, very uniform. On any given PC the jacks and connectors are all over the back of the system, and never next to each other.
· Mac OS X is Unix, and not just any Unix, but BSD. This means it is rugged and built to run. If you like Linux, you should love Mac OS X.
· Since OS X is Unix, there are many ports or conversions of Linux software now being ported to OS X. This equates to a lot of free online software, which happens to be very useful.
· The slot load CD/DVD player and burner is kool. No tray, nothing to worry about, CD simply slips into the side of the iMac cabinet. It is easy to use, and clean looking.
· I cannot say enough about the keyboard. I truly appreciate the sound controls on the keyboard, volume, mute, and eject key for CD drive. Very user friendly once I discovered them. No such thing exists on the PC, except in aftermarket keyboards that add extra expense. I guess in the long run; since the PC is cheaper, these may break even with each other, but the iMac includes them, score one to Apple.
· I upgraded the memory from 512Meg to 1024Meg (1 Gig). This process was simple, easy to do, only 3 screws to unscrew. They never popped out, they stay attached to the unit so they don’t get lost. Pop the memory into the slot, click the ends onto the memory and close up the cabinet. Easy upgrade!
· I was pleasantly surprised to find much freeware and shareware software on the Internet. Even though you cannot find commercial software in the stores, there is plenty of it online, tucked away at your favorite Mac sites.
· Mac OS X was simple to update via the Apple assistant. Took one click to allow my Mac to check for updates. They appeared, and you hit ok. The updates all install, then your computer asks to reboot. In the Windows world you have to reboot on some of the patches right away, one at a time, then check for updates again, what a PC time waster! XP has come a long way to helping correct this, but it is behind the iMac on this one.
· I hooked up my PC printer and it just worked, the driver was already in there. No fancy features like on the PC but at least it works. Windows has been pretty good at hardware detection over the last many years too though.
· I like the Finder program manager / file manager. It is simple to use, and fully object oriented. That means you can drag files to applications, or drag files to printers.
· I currently have my iMac tell me the time every hour. My Mac speaks! I like this feature. I can also have the Mac say anything from a file I want. This feature can also help you navigate the OS if you have sight troubles.
· Mac Icons are very colorful, sharp and attractive! They are sharp even if you grow them to the largest size, as big as a Quarter.
· OS X comes with a wide array of applications, utilities, and programs. If you didn’t want to purchase anything else, you don’t have to.
· Searchlight is fantastic! Type in a word, and the system will search the whole darn system for references to that word. Bookmarks, files, folders, mail messages, music, photos. Everything!
· It is easy to drop an application to the Dock for future use, and even easier to remove one. Drag file to or off the Dock, that’s it!
· The iMac comes with Bluetooth and Airport wireless built in! I use Bluetooth for the keyboard. I know many cell phones today have Bluetooth. Not to mention PDAs. That’s a fine standard feature, one Apple has been wise to include.
· An Ethernet 10/100 jacks in included for wired networking. This I prefer for privacy!
· The widgets are nice little utilities. I prefer Konfabulator, but the built in Widget engine is kool too.
· The Background Image on the desktop has more options. You can tile and stretch, but they are oriented from the center, not from the top left corner of the screen. This is much more advanced and intelligently designed. You don’t have to hit the OK button, like discontinued IBM OS/2, the change just happens.
· Smooth! This one is rather hard to express, but the Mac and OS X seems to run smoothly and present an aesthetically pleasing experience. The actions on the OS are not choppy. When you open windows they quickly fade in or animate from the Dock. Windows has this feature, but it seems like a resource hog on the traditional PC.
· I prefer the 2-button mouse, and as dirty as it seems, I took a Microsoft Mouse, plugged it in, and it worked great. Any 2-button mouse would work, but I got the same one that my PC had. It is USB, and never skips or hops, it just runs reliably. I can say on Windows 2000 there was an issue where the mouse would abort and you had no pointer. Never saw that on Windows XP.
· There is game support on Mac OS X. Quake 3 comes to mind. I have found enough games for my tastes. I prefer small quick 1st person shooter games. I have several Flash files that are games, like PacMan and Asteroids, Tetris, and even Batman. The current Flash player is available for Mac OS X, a huge plus.
· Safari is feature rich, and solid. It has never choked on a web page, which I visited. Safari just runs well. Tabbed browsing has grown on me too, since you cannot see all your separate Safari web page windows running in the Dock. There is a hidden setting you can use, I think, to show all jobs running, but that would get cluttered. Apple took the correct approach here.
· Even though the front of the iMac looks funny, the screen is on the top third. I like the space for sticky notes below the screen. This is a great place for reminders and notes to myself. I don’t use the software sticky notes application, which is included. With space for real notes, it is easier for me.



Well, as you can see I have found much good, and bad about my experiences. Seems to me that the iMac is not perfect. Matter of fact, I see much room for enhancements or changes. The hardware is a winner, many of my problems surrounded the software interface. As a PC guy, I would love to see Windows XP run on an iMac. I like Windows XP, it is the first really reliable OS that Microsoft has given us. However, I like the iMac overall too!
For this review, since day one, I have had the iMac sitting next to my PC. I admit, the PC is more centered, and the iMac is just to the right. I have attempted to use the iMac for much more than just browsing the Web, but it is best suited for browsing, E-Mail, and general Internet related usage. Strangely enough, no newsreader was included. Some modern browsers include newsreader function. Apple needs to include a newsreader.
I have found that the iMac and Mac OS X in general can do all of the things that the Windows XP counterpart can. Matter of fact, there are utilities for almost anything out there you wish to do. I do have some very specific programs and utilities on the PC that I wish I had on the iMac. I am sure they will eventually come, or perhaps I will come across a similar application or script. But no major show stoppers.

Recommendation:

Finally, here comes the major zinger of whether I recommend the iMac and OS X, or not.
1. Yes I do. I fully recommend the iMac for your Internet and computing needs. I felt that if my PC crashed and went south, I could use and enjoy the iMac for my computing needs.
2. Now how about the question, “Would I Switch from the PC to Mac, and never look back?” No. I would not. For some things I still prefer the PC. I prefer my music on the PC, in MP3 format. MP3 format is more widely used and supported. But the iMac is a great companion to the PC network, it easily integrates, and can serve as a second system, web server, or just to get various things accomplished while you wait on your PC to do other things. But be careful of .Mac. Be wary of what you purchase on extended agreements or subscription services. Keep in mind that anything on someone else’s server can be searched through or copied. Your privacy is at risk.
3. If I had to choose right now and select only one platform to use, I would have to stay with the PC. I know so much more about the PC and the underlying file structures. Previous versions of PC software count, but in todays connected world you can find any application you need on the Net for cheap or commercial fee. Software is just no longer a factor.
4. If you are new to computing, or don’t know a heck of a lot about the PC in general, or the inner workings, I feel that you would be a better candidate to switch to the iMac. It is a fantastic platform for computing, Internet, and content creation (like video and DVDs). It does it all very well, and builds high quality output. The PC does it all, but is sometimes slow, sloppy (poor output) and prone to lock ups.

Finally:

Go out and purchase an iMac. I think you will really enjoy the experience as I have done. Whether you need or like the iMac will be based on many personal factors, and preferences. I just don’t see a clear-cut argument for or against either platform. I don’t mind seeing competition though, and Microsoft needs more of it. But Apple would score more adopters as an open platform, which seems important to more people today, if they would create software that doesn’t hook you into their formats and ways of doing things. Make software that is well integrated, but open! This is probably why Linux is gaining so much ground on the desktop, at work and at home.

Thanks for reading, good luck in your review!