President Obama asks about "Open Source"

(image of the President found on ipwatchdog.com)

The news just keeps getting better and better with our new President Elect, Barack Obama. He is now asking Sun Chairman Scott McNealy, to write a white paper on the subject of "Open Source" to explain some of the various advantages Government can gain by using it.

"McNealy, cited in a BBC News story, wasn't shy in identifying them:

It's intuitively obvious open source is more cost effective and productive than proprietary software....The government ought to mandate open-source products based on open-source reference implementations to improve security, get higher-quality software, lower costs, higher reliability--all the benefits that come with open software."

I think its a move in the rite direction when the President is doing a complete overhaul of the current government to make things work more efficiently and help clean up some of the graft being passed around. Some people are wondering whether President Obama will listen. I feel that its a step in the rite direction to have in inquisitive mind of other options besides the current status quo for the job. Plus, this could help to open up some new company options for more cost efficient, stable and secure software to be put into the mix.

"For other positions on McNealy's open-source suggestions, see The 451 Group's Matt Aslett's blog and OStatic. "

Obama wants to know: Why open source? (CNET news)
President Obama: Good for Open Source (Linux Magazine)
Obama Wants Open Source IT Solutions for US (ipwatchdog.com)

Google offers virtual trip for New York City

(image taken from screen capture of nycgo website)

Planning a trip just got easier. Everyone knows the hassle that comes when planning a trip to see all the cool sites, museums and other hot spots around the city. Well Google and the City of New York have launched a virtual website to help you make your trip virtually easier before venturing out into the city to do it in person. The new website allows you to explore the Big Apple from the comfort of your home, phone or where ever else you can surf in from. This program even gives you options to see buildings in 3D and also experience New York in the "Google Street View" experience too.

(video originally found on YouTube Website - Google)
I would definitely recommend to watching this video and judge for yourself how amazing this service really is to the public.

The Mayor of New York city Michael Bloomberg launched the new website nycgo.com to the public for all to see. The information center for this project is located in Manhattan on 810 Seventh Avenue, between 52nd and 53rd Streets. The center itself offers touch screen interfaces for people to use in person. The video segment above gives you a glimps at how amazing and cutting edge this center really is. I think young and old will be in awe when visiting the information center in person.

""This dynamic site uses Google Maps to help you plan your New York experience," Bloomberg said in a posting at Google's website.

"So whether you are a visitor or a resident, we invite you to explore New York City from your home computer, your mobile phone -- and of course, in person."

People can use nycgo.com to learn about attractions, promotions, events and more, then map itineraries using Google software and send the information to mobile telephones for reference while on the move."

(image found on raising the bar: winter roof hotspots on nycgo.com)

I had a chance to check out the site and try it a bit. I enjoy the layout and design. The site is designed in a simple and user friendly format. I think this is a big plus because there are to many sites that just over complicate things. I especially enjoyed the assorted views of the inside of various places to get an idea of what it looks like. To many times all we get a chance to see is the outside which leaves many times much to the imagination.

This tool is a great way to view a city. I look forward when this kind of project is unveiled for my home Chicago and then some of the other metropolitan city's around the United States. This is definitely a step in the right direction when it comes down to broadening our horizons and really having a chance to see all the beauty the city has to give. This is definelty another "WoW" product from Google.

So if you have some free time check out the site and enjoy all that the Big Apple has to offer.

Google and New York City Launch town-touring technology tools (AFP)

New York uses Google Maps to guide Tourists (ComputerWorld Government)

Google-Powered Nycgo.com Site is Great Lesson in Interactive Web Maps (Google Watch)

25th Anniversary of the Apple 1984 Video

Today is the 25th anniversary of the Apple 1984 George Orwellian video which ran during the third quarter of Super Bowl XVIII, January 22, 1984. This was the breath taking way Apple introduced the world to the Apple Macintosh. The video was directed by Ridley Scott (famed director of such hits Blade Runner, Gladiator, Black Hawk Down & Alien).

"Apple spent 1.5 million on it, even while the board didn't want to run it and Steve Jobs—who obviously believed the ad was genius and was present at the moment of the filming—had to use all his Reality Distortion Field powers alongside John Sculley to get them to approve the spot. Reportedly, Steve Wozniak liked it so much that he offered to pay for it with his own money.

At the end, Steve's vision—as most times, spot on—prevailed and the ad became the biggest hit ever in the history of TV, setting the bar for every Super Bowl commercial since then. With one single emission, it generated millions of dollars in free coverage and re-runs in TV stations through the nation and abroad, and became a historical landmark to advertisers, companies, and public alike."

Its nice to see people who dream big and take a chance on something they truly believe in. Apple has always been a company that has been known for testing the waters and being on the cutting edge of the cusp. This video will live on in history as one of their great accomplishments.

1984 Macintosh Ad Still Rocks our Socks 25 years later (Gizmodo)

Microsoft takes out the Axe - 5,000 jobs to be cut over the next 18 months

(image found on Reuters website)
As the economy is in the crapper everyone is cutting back and tech giant Microsoft is no different. Microsoft is announcing that it didn't make the mark it was shooting for and it will need to make some employee cuts across the board.

"Microsoft said it will eliminate up to 5,000 jobs in research and development, marketing, sales, finance, legal, human resources and information technology over the next 18 months, including 1,400 jobs on Thursday. That amounts to about 5 percent of its estimated 95,000 work force.

Microsoft said these moves would help cut its annualized operating expense by about $1.5 billion and reduce fiscal year 2009 capital expenditures by $700 million."

Microsoft is pointing the finger at the PC industry and net books not hitting the mark. But, I think Microsoft is missing the bigger picture. This may be the tight times but its also the time to get our troops in order and make them work through the grind and come up with some more amazing new products. I understand a company needs to cut its expenses but it also needs to realize that each employee can help it to catipult forward in the down times.

Company's in general have a lot of untapped potential within them. Maybe Microsoft will realize this before it takes out the ax. I think they would be kicking themselves in the ass if they let go of these people and the people they let go went on to form something even more bigger then Microsoft. When times are tough the potential for greatness is high. All you need to do is look within and make it happen.

Microsoft profit misses, to cut up to 5,000 jobs (Reuters)

Microsoft to cut up to 5,000 jobs as earnings fall (AFP)

Microsoft shares slump following earnings release, pulls markets down(Cnet news)

New Worm on the Prowl called Confick/Downadup

"Update it looks like reports are now coming in that 1 out of 16 computers are infected world wide and it could even be up to 1 out of 3 machines are infected"

A New Worm is on the prowl and it was discovered earlier this month. The worm goes by the name Conficker/Downadup. The worm exploits a Microsoft Windows OS service vulnerability MS08-067 (There was a patch for this released three months ago by Microsoft). This is a Critical security update "for all supported editions of Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, and rated Important for all supported editions of Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008."

"It spreads through USB memory devices like USB drives or MP3 players. The Windows option menu that appears after inserting the USB device will disguise the option to run the program as the option to open the folder. Open the file and release the worm.""

"As is the case with a lot of malware, Conficker appears to launching brute force attacks to extract passwords from computer and corporate internal networks, Panda said. The easier the password, the easier it is for Conficker to decipher it. Once the passwords are detected, cyber criminals can access computers and use them maliciously. "

Conficker/Downadup Worm Dubbed 'Epidemic' (PCmag.com)
Confick or Downadup Worm Can Be Squashed: By Common Sense (windowsitpro.com)
Microsoft's advice on Downadup leaves users open to attack, says US-CERT(computerworld.com)

Bareback Barack

I know this is a blog and not a book, but can I add a little preface before I begin this post? In no way am I thinking about our new President barenaked with his naughty bits exposed. Even though I may agree that he is somewhat of a handsome man, I don't want to make sweet manlove to him. Just the thought of that nauseates me. So please don’t misconstrue what I’m about to say. And please know that in no way do I intend on turning this blog into a place where people can come to get tips and how-to guides on how to get laid. What I am about to say is said in a humorous fashion, light hearted and playful in nature. It is not to be taken literally, but it is intended to make you think. I swear this post has a point and while I’m trying to convey that message, I’ll do my best not to sound like a total perv. However, if you know me, that may be a bit difficult to ask of myself. Regardless, let’s begin...

Last week I told you how tech gadgets won’t get you laid. But if tech gadgets won’t get you laid, power will surely do the trick! Think about it. People who are in positions of power have an inherent sexiness to them. It’s that aspect of taking control, taking charge and being fully responsible for the outcome – whether it be good or bad. It’s not just asking people to follow your lead, but actually leading them in the right direction. When you step up, you also have to step your game up. You have to rise to the top and often go far beyond your call of duty. You’re the teacher, the mentor, you are the one who they aspire to be. And in some way, I suppose you could say that positions of power also have a nurturing side to them. People in positions of power often find themselves taking others under their wing and caring for them. We have to help them as much as they help us. We are doers, shapers, thinkers, innovators. The list goes on and on. The higher you climb up the ladder, the more apparent these qualities become. And of course that in turn increases your level of power, thus increasing your sex appeal. Or so they say.

If you don’t believe me, then just try this. Next time you are out and you meet a girl, just tell her you’re a doctor, a lawyer, or a big man on Wall Street and watch how fast she hands over her digits. Sure it’s a lie and lying isn’t nice to do, but this is strictly for experimental reasons. Try it and see. It will prove my point.

You are probably thinking..."David, you are just saying all this stuff because you are the CEO and Founder of a company (although a geeky business it may be) and you are trying to make yourself sound sexier so YOU can get laid more often." To that I would answer..."Well, yes and no." Sure what guy doesn’t like to get laid? And the more often the better! But let me assure you that is NOT the reason why I feel compelled to write this post. I feel compelled to do so because after yesterday’s Inauguration festivities finally came to a close, I started thinking – how sexy must Michelle find Barack now? Put aside for a minute the overwhelming feelings of pride and the outpouring of love she has for him, and how wet must she get for him? Sorry, I know that is supper crass, but not every woman can say she’s fucking the President of The United States! Look at Bill Clinton. Puffy-eyed slick Willy was certainty nothing to look at, but because he was the President of The United States, he had panties dropping left and right for him! I understand many women are attracted to money, but there are many jobs out there that pay far more than being President. So to me that says that it’s more about the power than the money.

Honestly, I don’t want this visual in my head, but Barack had to get the VIP treatment in the White House master bedroom last night. While I may settle for being called "Oh my God" during sex, I would have to think that "Fuck me Mr. President" had to have a nice ring to it when it fell upon Barack’s ears, no?

And while I'm in Washington this week on business, if I happen to pass the President on his first day at the new job, I shall flash him my winning smile and a small wink. He'll know what's up.

Related post of interest...
10/16/08 - I’ll Be Crushed To See Obama Girl Go

Seagate Hard Drive fix causing more problems then fixing

(image found on Tigerdirect.com website)

Hard drive company Seagate has found that certain drives have a bug that make the drives undetectable by a computer and are cause some drives to lock up. Seagate has issued a fix which is supposted to fix the problem but, many have complained now their drives are made into a "Brick" and that "their data is not accessible".
"Seagate has repeatedly stated that this problem, while frustrating, should not cause data loss. In the event that you do lose information, however, the company has pledged to provide free data recovery services. "

The following drives seem to be affected:

(image of drive listing found on arstechnica.com website)

This is a link to Seagate website on trouble shooting this issue.

The interesting thing is that i have recently in the past few days purchased two of the Seagate Barracuda 1.5 TB Hard Drive ST31500341AS - 7200 RPM, 32MB Cache, SATA-3G units. I have not myself run into any issues with the drives. But, will keep my blog post updated if i do run into some issues and let you know what i did to resolve the issue. I do believe that Seagate will find a fix for this issue and help users with the drive problems they face.

Additional info: Tom's Hardware has some information on this issue

If you feel you have been affected by this specific issue, please contact Seagate via their regular support channels listed below – and as mentioned above, Seagate is currently working on a firmware update for the affected models.

Support contact information:

Technical Support in the USA: 1.800.SEAGATE (1.800.732.4283)

Technical Support in Canada: 1.405.324.4700

Other regions please go to our support web page: http://www.seagate.com/www/en-us/support/

Seagate releases firmware for dying 7200.11 HDs that doesn't work (neoseeker.com)
Seagate cops to widespead HD problems, vows full support (arstechnica.com)
Seagate fixes 7200.11 drives --except when it doesn't(cnet news.com)