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cmh blog 08 2005 |
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Within:
Archive: • Apr 2008 (2) • Mar 2008 (2) • Feb 2008 (2) • Jan 2008 (4) • Dec 2007 (2) • Nov 2007 (4) • Oct 2007 (1) • Sep 2007 (6) • Aug 2007 (4) • Jul 2007 (3) • Jun 2007 (2) • May 2007 (2) • Apr 2007 (4) • Mar 2007 (2) • Feb 2007 (4) • Jan 2007 (4) • Dec 2006 (4) • Nov 2006 (24) • Oct 2006 (3) • Sep 2006 (1) • Aug 2006 (2) • Jul 2006 (3) • Jun 2006 (6) • May 2006 (5) • Apr 2006 (5) • Mar 2006 (1) • Feb 2006 (8) • Jan 2006 (11) • Dec 2005 (8) • Nov 2005 (12) • Oct 2005 (10) • Sep 2005 (18) • Aug 2005 (8) • Jul 2005 (10) • Jun 2005 (14) • May 2005 (8) • Apr 2005 (10) • Mar 2005 (14) • Feb 2005 (12) • Jan 2005 (12) • Dec 2004 (9) • Nov 2004 (18) • Oct 2004 (13) • Sep 2004 (12) • Aug 2004 (16) • Jul 2004 (6) • Jun 2004 (10) • May 2004 (8) • Apr 2004 (8) • Mar 2004 (27) • Feb 2004 (19) • Jan 2004 (8) • Dec 2003 (10) • Nov 2003 (18) Random Entry Friends: • Jen • Keltie • On LiveJournal |
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Satellite Radio in Canada
This piece, long in the editing, didn’t know whether it wanted to be a letter or a blog entry. It kind of isn’t a great example of either which just goes to show that you should decide what you’re writing before you start. I feel very strongly about this issue. Regulatory agencies have a lot to do with Canadian culture, and the CRTC’s take on Canadian culture is extremely important. Let’s see if the government can take this back and give the CRTC another shot at this. Unless you like the inevitable American-boy-bands-all-the-time policy that we are otherwise stuck with… Additional reading:
Dear Ms. Frulla, This letter is to request that you revoke the CRTC’s recent decision to approve licenses for satellite radio broadcasters in their current form. The reason for the request is that inadequate Canadian content requirements are a condition of these licenses. Since their inception in 1933, Canadian content regulations have placed the onus on broadcasters (generally as a condition of license) to locate and play Canadian selections that meet the broadcaster’s format and quality objectives. This onus has two effects (one obvious, one not so obvious) as follows.
The onus on broadcasters to play Canadian selections has created the market for domestic culture. Without this onus to locate Canadian content, the content industry would not require customized Canadian labels and record companies (and by extension Canadian workers); economies of scale would dictate that the Canadian arms of media organizations should be shut down in favour of consolidation of the Canadian market into existing US-based multi-national culture companies. A simple consideration of the relative sizes of the Canadian and American markets would suggest that we would not be assured of seeing 30-40% Canadian content in such a consolidated market. Economically it seems likely that most commercial radio would essentially become affiliates of larger US chains. Given the importance of the Canadian content requirements, Ms. Frulla, it would seem obvious that the CRTC should require them of the next big media shift: the shift from terrestrial to satellite radio. It has not done so. The licenses it issued require 1 Canadian channel for every 9 foreign channels (10% Canadian channels) with no Canadian requirements on any other channel. This is pitiably small, and means that many Canadians will never listen to any Canadian channel. Moreover, under the CRTC’s misguided regulations, 50% of the selections played on Canadian channels will be new selections which is not sustainable in a standard commercial format. These Canadian channels will simply be viewed by foreign broadcasters as a throwaway tax, not promoted to Canadians and therefore not listened to by Canadians. If satellite radio becomes the future of radio that many believe it to be, then this CRTC decision will represent the beginning of the end for the Canadian music industry. In time we will stop listening to AM and FM bands in favour of the higher quality noise-free digital signals. At that time — without Canadian content controls on satellite radio — Canadians will no longer hear Canadian music. It will be American culture for us. The CRTC argues that Canadian-broadcast services are non-viable. Despite this, one of the three licensees is proposing to broadcast Canadian content at the current FM radio levels, so clearly the industry feels that Canadian-broadcast satellite radio is viable! If broadcasters feel there is money in satellite broadcasting then they should program services in Canada that conform to Canadian broadcasting policy. Simply producing throwaway content to satisfy ill-conceived regulations is not going to protect Canada’s fragile cultural industry. When the CRTC rashly throws away a regulatory gem in favour of 400 channels of American content as the initial offering for a new technology we have to ask about their priorities and oversight. Ms. Frulla, Canadians deserve better than to be deluged with American content in the name of “progress” after over 70 years of successful promotion of Canadian culture. Take action today to reverse this misguided decision on the part of the CRTC. Canadians will be watching you to see how effectively you can protect our national treasure: a vibrant culture supported by an industry full of jobs. Sincerely, |
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Walmart Rent-A-Cops Murder Shopper
How does Walmart deal with their problems? They kill potential shoplifters |
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Cottage Party 2005
Well, Erin has requested photos of the cottage party. I have to say that many of the photos aren’t much to write home about from the point of view of photographic excellence. Having said that there is a photographic record of the party, and I’ve tried to include photos of everyone for whom a photo turned out. Here’s one photo I do like. I don’t remember who suggested this, but it turned out pretty well.
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Harry Potter Alter Ego
Gacked from Keltie. |
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Steganography In Printers: Privacy Nightmare
Steganography means ‘hidden writing’. It has a long and proud tradition, with ideas dating back to the 1400s and 1500. Steganography is the art of hiding a message so that it can easily be read, but only if you know where and how to look. It doesn’t necessarily have to be an encrypted message (although sometimes it is) it just has to do with hiding it. One example of Steganography is that of an ancient Greek slave who had a message about invasion plans tattooed on his shaven scalp. When the messenger arrived at his destination the message was hidden under his hair, but when the scalp was re-shaved the message became visible. Steganography: hidden writing. You may be surprised to know that Steganography is a feature in many colour printers and photocopiers. It turns out that the US Secret Service has deals with printer manufacturers to print tiny dot patterns which identify the printer used to make the print. That’s right. If you make a colour printout, the serial number of the printer used is encoded right into your lovely colour output. That means that the US government can just read the serial number right off the page, and obtain your name and address from the store that sold you the printer. Think twice before making a colour pamphlet advertising your next political demonstration! Big brother is watching! Props to Chris for forwarding me the URL |
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Europe is spinning in their graves
This just in from nurd_grrl: As she says (and I concur with the sentiment): If you can make it to the guitar solo, you’re a better person than I. Forgive me. I know not what I have done. Actually I do know full well what I have done, but forgive me anyways? |
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Rules of Jen
Which of the following rules of Jen do you think is most relevant? #1 Jen is an exceptional person who is to be worshipped and adored at all times. #2 Jen is always special. #3 Jen is frequently up to something. #4 Jen can usually get away with it. #5 If your relationship with Jen fails, it’s your fault. #6 (The Jennocious Tenet of Remote Control Ownership) If Jen wants to watch a particular movie or TV show, she will. Even if it clashes with The Game. You may, however, purchase and fit new batteries in the remote. #7 There is no rule 7. #8 Jen isn’t easily fooled. She has Her own reasons for letting you think you’ve pulled one over on Her, which will only become clear when it is advantageous for Her so to do. #9 (The Srey Maxim) Jen does not like being kept waiting. #10 If and when she so desires, Jen is to be cuddled and comforted without question or hesitation. #11 Thou shalt not taunt Jen, lest ye be consigned to the fifth circle of hell-dating where the women are all named after department stores. #12 Jen is always right, especially when she isn’t. #13 Jen does not procrastinate; she waits until the time is right. #14 (The Goldfinch Guideline) Dating Jen is a commitment to a lifetime spent worshipping the wonder that is Her, even if you never see her again (see also #5). #15 Jen will cross the road when and where she wants, which may be before or after everyone else. #16 (The Jezzie Precept) For the duration of your relationship or acquaintance with Jen these Rules (and any personal supplements) will render null and void any or all of your own rules, at her discretion. #17 (The Second Jezzie Precept) If you don’t understand what Jen is talking about, it’s probably because She’s talking Jenglish, a unique subset of English for which there can be no dictionary as words and meanings are subject to change at Her whim. (see also #52). #18 (The Third Jezzie Precept) Because Jens are by nature beautiful and have a tendency towards cheery mischief, it is easy to misinterpret an innocent look as something saucy. Jen fans who have been the targets of Jenuine sauciness know the difference, and never forget… #19 Jen can always read maps perfectly. You, however, can’t follow her clear, precise directions, no matter how many milliseconds she give you before screaming “Left! Left!” as you pass the turning. #20 The last piece of candy, brownie, popcorn, soda, beer, slice of pizza, breadstick or spoonful of ice cream belongs to Jen. #21 Jen always looks beautiful. #22 Whatever Jen has to say is worth listening to. #23 (The Powroz Principle) The subject changes when Jen says so. #24 However Jen wants to pronounce or spell her name is the correct way. #25 Jen is a tidy eater. That piece of food on the restaurant floor fell off your fork. If it’s something only Jen ordered, you must have picked at her plate while she wasn’t looking… #26 (Corollary to #20 and #25) Jen does not like people picking at her plate while she isn’t looking. #27 Jen should not be expected to work on her birthday. #28 (The Stevens Sutra, addendum to rule #27) Jen’s birthday is a holiday, and should be treated as such, even if it means taking the day off, calling in sick, or cancelling other plans to be with her. #31 Jen is exceedingly clever. #31 Jen doesn’t like seeing two rules with the same number. #32 Jen always has the last word. Anything you might say after that is the start of a new discussion/argument. #33 As soon as your relationship with Jen starts she has the right to borrow your clothes, especially comfy sweatshirts, sweaters and t-shirts, but (being kind and considerate) she’ll probably let you keep your fifteen-year-old “lucky” underpants all to yourself… #35 Jen always does things her way. Don’t ask. #36 Jen knows what information you need to know about Jen. #37 Addendum to #36) There is always more to Jen than she is letting on. #38 (Greg’s Theory of Jeneral Relativity) If you are behind Jen, you are walking too slowly; if you are in front of Jen you are walking too fast. #39 If and when Jen makes an appearance, consider it a gift. #40 Only Jen decides if the temperature is right for opening the window. #41 Any poetry by Jen is good poetry. #43 Withhold Jen’s chocolate at your peril. #45 Anything Jen laughs at is funny. Things Jen will not laugh at include you hiding her chocolate. #50 Jen does not like having any sort of camera pointed at her without permission. Carefully consider rule #8 before attempting a rule #21 defence. #51 (Corollary to #12 and #19) Jen always knows where she’s going, even if nobody else does. #52 Jen always knows what she’s talking about, even if nobody else does. #53 Jen does not like having to make decisions. #54 (Addendum to #53) Jen’s decisions (when made) and opinions are always valid (See also Rule #12). #55 Withhold Jen’s chocolate at your peril. (Yes, we know that’s the same as Rule #43, but it’s *VERY* important to remember this…) #61 Jen is sometimes inclined to wisecracking or being a smartass. It’s cute. Source: The Jencyclopedia’s Rules of Jen |
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My Kingdom for some Varsol
Here’s an anecdote from what already seems like the distant past. It’s June 16th, our first full day in the house. Jen is in France at her conference. I’m thinking that I should start some of the messy tasks that we want to get out of the way before all our stuff shows up. (The two tasks being stripping the awful wallpaper in my office, and painting at least the ground floor.) On the ground floor it wasn’t that the previous colours were awful. They were just scuffed and there were about a billion nails and hangers in the wall. As there was a fairly large cache of paint in the basement (well labelled with colour numbers) I decided that I would get them out and try to match colour to wall. One by one the paint cans came up from the basement. Some of the rooms have similar colours and it was a task to try to figure out which was which from thin smears of paint on the outside of the cans. As I worked I built up a spreadsheet of room, paint, number, base (latex mostly) and finish. There were probably over 20 cans of paint in the basement, some clearly from previous owners… a history in there somewhere I’m sure. (There were also some rolls of ugly wallpaper… what is with that!) Eventually I found two cans of green that matched the wall colour by the front door. I figured I’d open the can, stir it up and daub a bit of paint under a light switch cover to see if it matched. It did. Next was a can of yellow paint, but I needed to clean off the stir stick to stir up the yellow. Over to the kitchen, and turned on the water and began to rub the stick with my fingers to get the paint off. Odd, I thought, this is very gluey paint. Odd, I thought, this paint does not seem to be coming off the stick very well. Odd, I thought, perhaps this is not latex paint. It was not latex paint. So here’s your man, standing with the water running in an empty house, in regular nice-enough clothes, with both hands slathered in green oil-based house paint. After uttering a few choice words, I began to explore the house looking for something to clean the paint off with. I went down to the basement (opening the door with the back of my hands) and checked out the paint cans. Surely there must be one of those ubiquitous cans of Varsol around or something. No ubiquitous can of Varsol was to be found. More choice words. I went back upstairs, uselessly ran more water over the stick, succeeded in smearing even more paint on my hands, wandered to the front door (closed), looked out the window for a while, contemplated what the steering wheel and gear shift of my car would look like with green oil paint smears, experimented with the unpleasant stickiness of my fingers and generally felt sorry for myself. I decided to go down to the basement one more time. This time I spotted a weird glass pickle jar full of solid yellow goo. Taking the goo jar out, I looked at a few useless things behind it (wd-40 etc) and went to leave. I decided to put the goo jar back in the cupboard and that’s when I noticed it… a little white hand-written sticker labelled paint thinner on the lid of the goo jar. I took the goo jar up to the kitchen and opened the lid in the sink. Surprisingly a little tiny bit of liquid was over the top of the goo. I poured the gooey liquid onto my hands and presto the paint started to dissolve. A bit more liquid came out and it was enough to clean off the stick. Needless to say I was so relieved that I wasn’t going to have to leave handprints all over town in a fit of Varsol purchasing…
It makes you think, though, how many years ago did that paint thinner get stashed away down there. And why did it turn into weird yellow goo? I guess I have to smile back 20 years to thank that person for leaving the varsol which wound up in my empty house on my first full day of home ownership — when it was exactly what I needed. |
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