Bone Marrow Update: Went for testing

National Marrow Donor Program (USA) How To Help

I just got back from the local clinic, where they took a blood sample to determine if I am a good match for a person in need for a bone marrow transplant.

The process couldn't have been easier or faster. I checked in at 10am - needle in at about 10:05 - needle out about 20 seconds later - I was out of the lab and in my car at about 10:10... No paperwork or forms to fill out...just went straight to Go and right back out the door. I know we have a great local hospital...but 10 minutes?! That's faster than some fast food joints!

So now my blood is being FedEx'd to the lab where they do the HLA/tissue typing (essentially white cell typing).

How are donors and patients matched?
Just as there are many red cell groups, known as blood groups, there are a variety of white cell groups known as tissue types. In the same way as a blood transfusion needs to be matched for a particular blood group, bone marrow transplants need to be matched for their tissue types. The best match is usually found from a family member (brothers and sisters). Unfortunately only one in four patients have such a suitable donor.

Because there are a great number of tissue types, it takes an extremely large register of donors (many thousands) to find an unrelated matched donor for patients.

If I'm not ultimately a match for this person, I hope someone else is.

Anyway, it will likely be six weeks before I can expect to hear anything. As soon as there is any news, I'll be sure to post it here.

In the mean time - perhaps you would consider checking out the ways you can help persons in need of a bone marrow transplant. Check out the National Marrow Donor Program (or organization in your country). They have a number of ways you can help.

Remember - due to the odds against finding an unrelated match - thousands of people need to sign up as potential donors in order for folks in need to have a fighting chance.

Writing Efficient CSS

Writing Efficient CSS:

"One of the touted benefits of CSS is that it reduces total page weight, and thus download time, both at first page load, and even more on subsequent loads due to style sheet caching. This is true, but often a sizable fraction of the first load savings is lost because of highly redundant CSS code.

Well that's all over. Now you will learn some 'secrets' of efficient CSS coding, enabling you to pare that style sheet right down to the bare bones. To be sure, you won't achieve huge savings doing this, but for some highly competitive sites every little bit counts."

OSGIS '05 Conf Materials Posted - Python Hacks

Python OSGIS Hacks '05 — Hobu, Inc.

The materials from the OSGIS conference '05 in Mpls are starting to finally trickle online for download. This is the first batch I've spotted. The materials are for the Python Hacks workshop (which was very good by the way).

The materials are extremely comprehensive and a LOT of time was committed to putting together some excellent GIS examples & documentation. The materials are best suited for intermediate + programmers, but complete newcomers will find it worth digging through and trying themselves.

Python looks like a good language to get aquainted with - especially for those using open source ... and those who enjoy scripting languages like Avenue.

Tut: Recording Your Own Podcast

Apple - Support - GarageBand - Recording Your Podcast

Apple has posted a tutorial on how to create podcasts. Most of it is very common sense...but a lot of good tips.

Google Earth - Temporarily Closed

Google Earth - Temporarily Closed

After only a day or so Google Earth has had to shutdown. Most likely due to a tremendous response.

The problem is likely the same one that plagued NASA in its attempts and was brought up at the '05 MapServer conference only a couple weeks ago in Minneapolis...we need a type of P2P network to handle serving of the massive amount of data behind these applications.

Google Maps API

Google Maps API:

Google has released an API for their Maps. That means all those sites that have popped up with interesting implementations of Google Maps...are now allowed by Google. Yay.

"The Google Maps API lets developers embed Google Maps in their own web pages with JavaScript. You can add overlays to the map (including markers and polylines) and display shadowed 'info windows' just like Google Maps."

DELL UltraSharp 1905FP 19-" - $299 (w/Code)

Electronics & Accessories

Dell Home has the Dell UltraSharp 1905FP 19" Height Adjustable Digital LCD for $479 + $21 extra to reach $500 - 25% off 1905FP code RJSSH7T?9FVBSL [Exp 6/30, 3.5k] - $60 off $500 code QDPXS41JXSDGST. Plus shipping.

So the steps are...
1. Add the monitor to your cart ($479)
2. Add something else to your cart ($21+) to reach $500
2. Enter the 1905FP code to get 25% off
3. Enter the $60 off/$500 code to get $60 off
4. That should get you the monitor for $299 (plus the $21 item you added to your cart to get the extra $60 off)

phew - what some people won't go through for a good deal on a monitor :)

Google Video Lock Hacked in < 24hrs

'DVD Jon' Breaks Google Video Lock - Yahoo! News:

"Norwegian hacker Jon Lech Johansen has cracked the lock on Google's new in-browser video player.

Johansen, also known as 'DVD Jon' for his work on decrypting DVD security codes, has created a patch for the Google Video Viewer—less than 24 hours after the search giant shipped the video playback plug-in, a tool based on the open-source VideoLAN media player."

It's questionable whether you could call this feat an actual hack, as the code is basically already out there as open source...however let's not rain on the guys parade.

Error Message Gallery

Error Message Gallery

This should be a good laugh for any Windows user.

Knoppix 4.0 DVD - oh so yummy

Knoppix 4.0 DVD - Like a Kid in a Candy Store:

"A totally new release of Knoppix was unveiled at LinuxTag 2005, Knoppix 4.0. This is the release that introduces the split between 'maxi' DVD and 'mini' CD releases"

The official release will likely happen in a couple of weeks...with that said it has already made its way onto the Internet. (it is open source - completely free)

Some currently available torrent files for the DVD (click one):
http://seedler.org/en/html/info/92388
http://www.torrentreactor.to/torrents/view_56289
http://www.mininova.org/tor/60628

If you don't have a torrent client download & install Azureus...then click on the above torrent download links...Azureus will then handle the download.
Azureus:
http://azureus.sourceforge.net/

Instructions:
Once the Knoppix download is complete - burn the image to a DVD - insert the DVD into your drive - reboot your computer - and presto you are running Linux from your DVD drive (completely safe and will not alter your existing system)

Writing Your Own GPS Applications

CodeGuru: Writing Your Own GPS Applications: Part I

"Writing Your Own GPS Applications: Part I
What is it that GPS applications need to be good enough to handle in-car navigation? Also, how does the process of interpreting GPS data actually work? This two-part series will cover both topics and give you the skills you need to write a commercial-grade GPS application that works with a majority of GPS devices in the industry today."

Google Earth

Google Earth - Home

The future of mapping: 3D. And Google is working on it.

Google Video

Google Video

Google has launched it's video playback service. I haven't tried it yet...but it looks like another interested product from google.

Hollywood triumphs in piracy fight

Hollywood triumphs in piracy fight - Jun. 27, 2005:

"The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Monday that software companies can be held liable for copyright infringement when individuals use their technology to download songs and movies illegally."

What is Ajax, and Does it Matter?

In My Humble Opinion... (IMHO): What is Ajax, and Does it Matter?:

"Ajax is composed of the following web technologies:

* HTML CSS: displays the information in the browser.
* JavaScript: dynamically displays content, and allows the user to interact with it.
* XML XSLT: Using the browsers XMLHttpRequest function data can be requested, sent, or changed on the Web server."

The Best (and Worst) ISPs

PCWorld.com - The Best (and Worst) ISPs:

"More than 6000 PC World readers told us how major providers rate for speed, tech support, and more. We reveal which broadband and dial-up services make the grade and which fall flat."

200GB Maxtor HD for $80

200GB Maxtor HD for $80

CT Town to honor courts GIS ruling...

Greenwich Time - Town to honor courts ruling on geographic database:

WARNING - after reading all the backstory on this story...this entry seemed to get me a little hot under the collar....

"Greenwich will not challenge a landmark state Supreme Court ruling over public access to a sophisticated database of aerial photos of the entire town, census data and utility maps.

"...Whitaker [plaintiff] continued to question the town's sincerity, however.

"I'll believe it when I see it," he said. "I can't guess what kind of tricks they're going to pull. I've never seen them genuinely forthcoming."

"Whitaker requested a digital copy of the $3 million taxpayer-funded database in 2001, which officials denied, citing public safety and privacy concerns.

"Town officials fought the request in the courts, unsuccessfully arguing that terrorists or kidnappers could use GIS technology such as aerial photos of homes, businesses, schools and public safety facilities for criminal plots."

My comments...
Well, the data he requested certainly doesn't sound very complicated or special...aerial photos, census data, and utility maps? Census data...now who is going to fight over that? Depending on the resolution the aerial photos might be worth something. Perhaps the utility maps have commerical value...but this isn't some extraordinary dataset.

After reading the legal complaints and opinions, this sounds like a classic case of government employees who know nothing pulling an excuse out of the collectivly dumb asses in order to hoard public data.

Why is it that people who know nothing about technology are generally in the positions that influence government technology decisions? For my own sake, I will censor my own answer to that...

Additionally, am I off base here or does it seem outrageous for a city to pay $3 million for a friggin database? How could a single CITY's database possibly cost so much? Unless that database plows the streets, cleans the sidewalks and removes the dogshit from the parks...it ain't worth $3 million...However, I wouldn't be suprised that they paid that much for it.

Aerial photos should be restricted because terrorists might use them? Whaaa? First of all, why is a terrorist going to give a shit about Greenwich Connecticut (delusions of grandure?). Secondly, any planning level materials would be helpful to a terrorist, including road maps. So should all planning materials be considered classified and only for government use? It sure would make government officials' lives easier now wouldn't it. Look - when it comes to information - if it is helpful to the general public, it is probably just as helpful to a wannabe terrorist.

Data hoarders and idiots need a spanking...then a pink slip.

Ajax Toolbox - Tools for Ajax / XMLHttpRequest

Ajax Toolbox - Tools for Ajax / XMLHttpRequest / Remote Scripting Developers:

"AjaxToolbox.com offers the AjaxRequest Library. It simplifies and extends the capabilities of the XMLHttpRequest object and allows you to immediately jump into working on the ideas you have, without having to worry about doing the low-level stuff right. "

CSS: Fun with Drop Shadows

wg:Fun with Drop Shadows

Monopoly Live - GPS style

Monopoly Live

So how's this for a GPS implementation...18 London cabs are fitted with GPS. Web geeks from all over the world buy/sell properties along the route of these taxis and receive/pay rent based on property ownership.

It's all live and the winder get's their mortgage paid for a year. I haven't read the rules - so I'm not sure if the winner needs to be a UK bloke or not.

Anti-Spyware App Reviews - PC Mag

Weeding Out Spies

PC Magazine has reviewed the major anti-spyware/adware programs. If you have spyware/adware problems check out their reviews.

To avoid spyware/adware problems in the first place -> start by using FireFox and stop using Internet Explorer.

Guide to Cascading Style Sheets

Guide to Cascading Style Sheets

Yep, here is another site all about showing you how & why to use CSS. I know I've posted a million of them...but it is good stuff to know.

JavaScript Toolbox - Reusable Libraries And Objects

JavaScript Toolbox - Reusable Libraries And Objects:

"This is a collection of Javascript source files, examples, and concepts. Use these instead of always re-inventing JavaScript solutions."

Possible Bone Marrow Donor

National Marrow Donor Program

This morning I received one of the best phone calls a person could ever get. The National Bone Marrow program telephoned to inform me that I was a possible match for a 45 year old man with Leukemia and futher testing is requested.

It has been almost 10 years since my father died from Leukemia. He was only 42 and unable to find a bone marrow match. It was always so bitter sweet to have this hope that someone out there would be found to match and that would have the potential to save his life. A match was never found for him...for us really...and he died.

It would be such an amazing honor to give something of yourself that would increase their chance of ridding their bodies of cancer and surviving...Now at this stage, I was told that their is only a 5% chance of me being a match. Shit, screw my chances at the lottery - let me win this bet! This is a bet that could very well mean life or death for...someone. This person needs a match - without it...

The woman who called from the registry was so nice and at every step was so curtious and willing to inform me about the next steps. She set up further blood testing for next Thursday at my local clinic. They need to do another blood draw to complete the tissue typing and to determine whether or not I am a complete match.

It is a little funny - she asked if I would like to set up the testing in the next couple of weeks. Hell, weeks!? How about in an hour?! Come on - if there is a chance that I'm a match, I'll drive to the clinic right now and let's get the show on the road. Now, I'm not complaining - I know she was trying to make it is as convenient as possible for me. But there is a person out there waiting for a match - so let not dick around and find that match.

...well, that was fast - 20 minutes after the first call, they called back with a confirmed appointment to complete the testing next Thursday at the local clinic. (so they aren't slacking folks - in fact they are on the ball)...

So readers - I would ask that you consider adding yourself to the National Marrow Registry and/or making a contribution so others can. Even more important would be to set up a bone marrow drive at your company or in your community.

Joining the National Marrow registry is only a simple blood test, but can be expensive ($60-$90). Usually bone marrow drives are sponsored by companies/individuals to encourage folks to come in for initial typing. It's a simple blood draw that has the potential to save someone's life. When my father was unable to find a match Northwest airlines and others paid for the testing so that over 500 people who came to the marrow drive were able to join the registry at no cost.

So if you are at work...swing by your boss' office and ask that the company sponsor a bone marrow clinic and blood drive at the office.

I will be sure to keep the latest news about this on the blog.

Stories of stupid people and their computers :)

Computer Stupidities:

"The following is a large collection of stories and anecdotes about clueless computer users."

Free VB eBook - Legit MS Download

Visual Basic Developer Center: Free Book - Introducing Visual Basic 2005 for Developers

I'm reading it now and it isn't all that bad. Plus - it was free.

See what M$ has to do to try and convice people to develop with its crap? Hehe - not that I would ever use VB

StormReportMap - Another Google Maps Variant

StormReportMap.Com - An Interactive Look at the Latest Storm Reports

This is another interesting, user created variant of Google maps. It overlays a Google Map with weather report data after storms strike.

Enter June 20, 2005 ("050620") for a cool look at where the storms were...it was a busy day.

Creating a Multi-File Upload Script in PHP

Creating a Multi-File Upload Script in PHP

Frustrated with single-file upload scripts? Looking for an alternate route? Read as Jonathan shows us how easy it really is to setup a multi-file upload script using PHP.

Student Suspended for Star Trek Pledge of Allegiance

Beauty Dish

An 8-year old was suspended from school for 1 day...wait for it...because he cited his own "Star Trek" version of the declaration of independance.

It turns out that the source of the complaint came from some other kid's parent. What the hell is it with parents trying to discipline their neighbors' kids? And doesn't the administration have more important things to worry about than this? Arggg. Wackjobs like this drive me nuts.

Apparantely here is what the kid said:
"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United Federation of Planets, and to the galaxy for which it stands, one universe, under everybody, with liberty and justice for all species."

Now that is certainly something parents should be fearful of. So if you have school kids, don't worry about bullies, drugs, and violence in your schools...be sure you weed out the students that don't share your views. After all - free speech should only be the speech you want to hear...that's how it works right?

What was the parent's punishment to the little trouble maker? A Star Trek marathon! Hehe. That little shit sure got what he deserved. hehe.

The administrator should abviously be fired. If for nothing else than opening the school district to a healthy sized lawsuit and legal battle that they cannot win.

Oh, and for the parent that ratted on this kid & school administration...the Supreme Court has already ruled (several times) that the kid can say whatever the hell he wants or nothing at all (West Virginia St. Bd. of Ed. v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624 (1943))...but the Supreme Court likely won't mean anything to these $%@#s.

A real thumb drive - Freaky!

Laptop Logic Notebook Laptop Reviews and News:

"Japan's Solid Alliance unveiled a new USB 2.0 'thumb' drive that is shaped like a thumb. The unit comes in a 128MB capacity and is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux."

Note: This could be a viral marketing site & just a photoshop gag. With that said - it would be pretty cool to have a real thumb to carry around in your bag and sticking out of your computer.

Google Maps High Res Imagery Updated

Google Sightseeing � Post Archive � Google Maps Updated:

"Today Google quietly updated its map service to add high-resolution aerial photography for much more of the globe than the previous limited coverage of North America. New additions include Scotland, Iceland, Kuwait and many, many more."

DIY - Cheap GPS Receiver

Cheap GPS receiver - hack a day - www.hackaday.com _:

"Here’s a short guide for converting a Palm III GPS sled into a normal serial GPS receiver. The Palm III is old tech so its accessories can be picked up cheap and modified for other purposes. The GPS receiver needs to be separated from the Palm specific board and a few components need to be transfered between the two. Once that’s done you should have a standard serial GPS receiver"

You should note that you will need a soldering iron for this hack - yay - soldering! Seriously, soldering = fun.

Court Rules GIS Data Can't Be Kept Secret

NMU (06/16/2005): City must release electronic GIS mapping data

[SLASHDOT STORY]
"The Connecticut Supreme Court has ruled that there is not a significant security risk to the town of Greenwich in making its GIS Data available to the public, and therefore must do so. Greenwich had claimed that the data could compromise personal and national security, and was sued under CT Freedom of Information laws. The legal ruling is available here (PDF)."

Crap Cleaner v1.20.118 Released

CCleaner - Crap Cleaner free software download

"CCleaner (Crap Cleaner) is a freeware system optimization and privacy tool. It removes unused files from your system - allowing Windows to run faster and freeing up valuable hard disk space. It also cleans traces of your online activities such as your Internet history. But the best part is that it's fast (normally taking less that a second to run) and FREE! :)"

Mousetrap Reactor - Fun Experiment

Mousetrap Reactor: "The Mousetrap Reactor is a visual representation of a chain reaction in a confined space. Useful as an analogy for an uncontrolled nuclear reaction."

The site includes video and detailed instructions on how to conduct the experiment yourself. (Possibly a fun science project for high school students)

Is this your data center? Holy Crap!

Messed UP Data Center

This looks like someone who has built their own data center/cluster/super computer...in their apartment. What a mess!

Kids, this is what happens when you lock a geek in a tiny space with Internet access & a credit card for too long...

Warning - the pictures on this site are a little disturbing and may not be appropriate for geek viewers.

Conference: Open Source Geoinformatics 2006

Free and open source software Geoinformatics 2006

If you attended (or wish you had) the MapServer/Open Source conference in June '05 in Minneapolis - you should bookmark the website of next year's conference.

Yes, the name of the conference changes every year. Be that as it may - it is THE GIS conference to attend.

The conference for 2006 will be held in Switzerland (Sep 2006). The primary focus of next year's conference will include MapServer, EOGEO, and now GRASS.

If you work in the GIS field you should take note of this conference and make every effort to attend. From what I saw and learned from this year's conference, I would encourage you to put this at the top of your list (far above the ESRI conference). The topics covered, shear volume of ideas, and networking opportunities make this is a great event.

I hope to see all you GIS nerds at next year's conference!

Smile for the Google 3D mapping truck

SiliconValleyWatcher.com: Scoop! Smile for the Google 3D mapping truck:

"Google plans to use trucks equipped with lasers and digital photographic equipment to create a realistic 3D online version of San Francisco, and eventually other major US cities."

XHTML Tags & Info

HTML Tags - HTML Dog:

"This section contains information about all of the valid tags belonging to the latest version of strict XHTML."

Generating Dynamic CSS with PHP

Digital Web Magazine - Generating Dynamic CSS with PHP

PHP isn’t limited to generating HTML—it does a great job deploying CSS, too. Tighten up your presentation logic and learn how to store and reuse values in style sheets with this scheme switcher

CSS Image Maps

CSS Image Maps - Flickr-like Technique?

Why Xeroxing your ass is dangerous!

Why Xeroxing your ass is dangerous!

Sure this is a viral marketing website...but it is still funny.

CSS-Only Forms That Don't Suck

CSS-Only Forms That Don't Suck

The author has developed intelligent and well formatted CSS forms which can be implemented on websites.

Open Source GIS, Python, and Zope

Open Source GIS, Python, and Zope

MapServer 4.6 Released

MapServer - Software Download

"MapServer 4.6.0 has just been released, just in time for MUM3. This new release represents the culmination of over two months of beta releases and six months of development. Highlights of new features include:

* GEOS support
* GML 3.1.0 support from WFS server
* Improved threading support when using various MapScript flavors
* SVG output support
* Several enhancements to Oracle Spatial support (3D data, geodetic queries, getextent and Oracle compound polygons)
* Unix and Windows build improvements
* Can now build PHP/MapScript without the PHP source (PHP regex issues have been resolved)
* Various MapScript bug fixes and improvments (very few API changes)
* Gobs of other bug fixes and improvements."

gCensus - Census Data + Google Maps

gCensus - Census Data Over Google Maps

Check it out - a nifty integration with Google Maps & Census data.

Wal-Mart to stop selling VCRs

Report: Wal-Mart to exit VHS business, free space for DVDs - Jun. 13, 2005

The ultimate sign of the end of the VHS as a format for pre-recorded movies was sounded today when Wal-Mart announced that it was phasing out sales of pre-recorded VHS tapes.

Introduction to Reverse Engineering Software

Introduction to Reverse Engineering Software:

"This book is an attempt to provide an introduction to reverse engineering software under both Linux and Microsoft Windows�. Since reverse engineering is under legal fire, the authors figure the best response is to make the knowledge widespread. The idea is that since discussing specific reverse engineering feats is now illegal in many cases, we should then discuss general approaches, so that it is within every motivated user's ability to obtain information locked inside the black box. Furthermore, interoperability issues with closed-source proprietary systems are just plain annoying, and something needs to be done to educate more open source developers as to how to implement this functionality in their software."

Complete Freeware Collection

complete freeware collection�|�xtort.net:

"The 'complete freeware collection' is a collection of hand-chosen applications, which when combined, make the complete freeware package. In other words, all you need is the operating system and you won't have to spend one cent on software. Nothing in this software bundle contains spyware or adware."

AntiRebate.com

AntiRebate.com - Great Deals, Coupon Codes, Save Money, Free Stuff, No Rebate Hassles!

If you like good deals but hate the stupid rebate process, then this site is for you.

Linux FTP Server Setup

Linux FTP Server Setup:

"This chapter will show you how to convert your Linux box into an FTP server using the default Very Secure FTP Daemon (VSFTPD) package included in Fedora."

Playing Cards with CSS

BrainJar.com: Playing Cards with CSS

"This example demonstrates using CSS to graphically display standard playing cards on a web page. An obvious use would be for creating JavaScript card games like blackjack or poker.

This article, however, only covers the style rules and HTML tags needed to create a display. For an example of how these displays can can be generated via JavaScript and used dynamically, see article on JavaScript Card Objects or try the Blackjack game."

Access DB Replication - Tips/Tricks

Access DB Replication - Tips/Tricks

Here is the skinny on using replication with Access databases. I've included a few examples along with the details you need to pay attention to.

Replication can be a very valuable utility - give it a try.

CSS Tut: Tableless Design

Making the Jump to tableless design

A quick & easy CSS, tableless design tutorial.

Project Gutenberg

Welcome to Project Gutenberg - Project Gutenberg:
Choose from over 16,000 books.

"All Project Gutenberg eBooks are free as in beer for anyone living in the United States: You may download all our eBooks for your personal use for free.

Most Project Gutenberg eBooks are also free as in speech: You may copy them, give them away and use them in any way you like. See the license page for details.

If you don't live in the United States, please check the copyright laws of your country before downloading an eBook.

Project Gutenberg is the oldest producer of free eBooks on the Internet. Our collection was produced by hundreds of volunteers."

BitTorrent FAQ and Guide

BitTorrent FAQ and Guide: "Welcome! If you are new to BitTorrent, this site should help clear up a lot of commonly asked questions."

IEs tabbed browsing is an embarrassment

Asa Dotzler on firefox, cats, mars, and more: ie's tabbed browsing is an embarrassment: "The more I play with IE MSN toolbar (now with tabbed browsing) the more I just feel embarrassed for the MSN developers who (probably pushed by 'marketing') released this POS to users in this pre-alpha state.

It's obviosly a hack thats actually based on new windows for each tab. I can crash it at will. It's so flickery as to be completely unusable. It's filled with serious dataloss bugs. It's just crap, plain and simple. Anyone that makes any excuse for this embarrassment, please trackback me because I'm very interested in hearing how anyone can defend it."

MN Original PLSS plat maps - scanned/downloadable

The Public Land Survey System: "This digital collection is a compilation of the state’s original plat maps drawn by the U.S. Surveyor General’s Office over the years 1848–1907. The collection includes later plat maps, up to the year 2001, drawn from surveys conducted by the General Land Office and the Bureau of Land Management.

The original public land survey plats were created during the first government land survey of the state. They serve as fundamental legal records for real estate, as an essential resource for surveyors, and as an analytical tool for the state’s physical geography prior to European settlement. The original public land survey plats are the official legal land records for Minnesota and all property titles and descriptions stem from them.

The collection of Plat maps can be viewed at any time by clicking the 'View the collection' link on navigation bar located on the left-hand side of each screen. You are able to view and download high quality, full color images of the over 3,500 plat maps and associated textual data (tables of meanders appear on the back of some maps). Each plat map is available as a high resolution PDF and a lower resolution resampled PDF. The images have NOT been georeferenced. For detailed information on how the files were produced, see the project documentation ."

PortForwarding - Consolidated Port List

PortForward.com - Free Help Setting up Your Router or Firewall

A list of what ports to use for certain applications. Comes in handy when you don't know which ports to open.

Kryptos - The CIA can't solve it...can you?

Elonka's Kryptos Page: "Kryptos is a sculpture located on the grounds of CIA Headquarters in Langley, Virginia. Installed in 1990, its thousands of characters contain encrypted messages, of which three have been solved (so far). There is still a fourth section at the bottom consisting of 97 or 98 characters which remains uncracked."

JavaScript Drag-and-Drop

JavaScript Drag-and-Drop extension for Prototype, sortable floats and lists

Ajax on Rails

ONLamp.com: Ajax on Rails: "In a few short months, Ajax has moved from an obscure and rarely used technology to the hottest thing since sliced bread. This article introduces the incredibly easy-to-use Ajax support that is part of the Ruby on Rails web application framework"

GIS: "Web Mapping Illustrated" Now For Sale

oreilly.com -- Online Catalog: Web Mapping Illustrated ($40 USD) ISBN: 0-596-00865-1

The long awaited web mapping book from Oreilly has FINALLY been released. (yes, it was released on schedule...but not soon enough ;). It's the only book that I know of that goes through and provides details, examples and other on how to setup a web mapping application.

"Developers who want to publish maps on the web often discover that commercial tools cost too much and hunting down the free tools scattered across Internet can use up too much of your time and resources. Web Mapping Illustrated shows you how to create maps, even interactive maps, with free tools, including MapServer, OpenEV, GDAL/OGR, and PostGIS. It also explains how to find, collect, understand, use, and share mapping data, both over the traditional Web and using OGC-standard services like WFS and WMS."

It's so hot off the presses you can only get it directly from Oreilly.com - here's the link:
http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/webmapping/index.html

If you wait another week+ it will be available on Amazon for $26 USD.

The author will be available at the Open Source GIS Conference (Minneapolis, June 16-18) and they might be giving away copies there.
---------
Next month a new MapServer book is set to publish:
http://apress.com/book/bookDisplay.html?bID=443
"MapServer: Open Source GIS Development

MapServer: Open Source GIS Development is the first book of its kind. It offers a comprehensive introduction to MapServer, the development platform for integrating mapping technology into Internet applications. You'll learn how to build and extend dynamic applications using popular languages like PHP, Perl, and Python."

Top 10 Data Crunching Tips and Tricks

ONLamp.com: Top Ten Data Crunching Tips and Tricks:

"Every day, all over the world, programmers have to recycle legacy data, translate from one vendor's proprietary format into another's, check configuration files, and yank data out of web server logs. This kind of programming is usually called data crunching, and while it's not glamorous, knowing how to do it with the least amount of effort can make the difference between meeting a deadline and making another pot of coffee. These ten tips will take the headache out of crunching data."

'Low-Rights' IE 7.0 Only for Longhorn

Microsoft: 'Low-Rights' IE 7.0 Only for Longhorn:

Suprise, suprise...but Microsoft is already positioning the next version of Internet Explorer to work only on the next version of Windows (code name Longhorn). Not that I care...I'm sticking with FireFox. However, this move is certainly going to be used as a marketing hammer to convince novice computer folk that they must upgrade to the next version of Windows.

"The 'low-rights' security feature being planned for Microsoft's upcoming Internet Explorer 7.0 makeover will be available only in Longhorn.

'Low-rights IE' is a 'defense-in-depth feature' meant to back up and support several security-related browser enhancements, but because it piggybacks on the 'least privilege' feature being introduced in Longhorn, it won't be available for any other operating system, said Rob Franco, lead program manager for IE security at Microsoft Corp."

Apache 1 vs Apache 2 Performance

Apache 1 vs Apache 2 Performance - iBlog - Ilia Alshanetsky: "In response to the on going flame war pertaining to the stability and usability of Apache 2 in comparison to Apache 1 I've decided to conduct a series of benchmarks to try to determine exactly how the two Apaches compare. The purpose of the test was to determine which server is faster at serving static HTML pages, who's real-time compression implementation is better and of course which is more suited for running PHP applications. The full details of the test are available below, but here is a quick summary of the results.

1) Apache 2 is about 4% faster then Apache 1 at serving static pages.

2) Apache 2's mod_deflate is over 60 percent faster then Apache 1's mod_gzip at real time compression of static HTML pages.

3) Serving PHP via Apache 2 is 27 percent slower then via Apache 1 DSO and 31 percent slower then Apache 1 static."

Podcasting - What it is & How to use it

How-To: Podcasting (aka How to get Podcasts and also make your own) - Engadget - www.engadget.com

The article goes a long way to explain what podcasting is, how to use it, and where to find the podcasts that might interest you.

Podcasting is essentially pre-recorded radio (mp3 files - like music) that you can download and listen to whenever you want. The great thing about Podcasts is that there are free & easy programs that allow you to subscribe to a podcast and whenever a new program is released it automatically downloads it for you.

Personally I subscribe to several geek podcasts and listen to them on long commutes or with an MP3 player (you don't need an iPod) on my bike.

Tut: How To Build A Website

Tutorials - Create A Website. How To Build A Website Online. Web Page Design Software.

If you're a noob in website building I'ld say look for free hosting first or services like myspace, xanga, blogger etc then search for good html tutorials lets say an html cheatsheet from webmonkey, play around with the scripts on your new site till you get the hang of it, and then go professional(optional) once you feel confident in it and then maybe once you're more advanced in html maybe you could try css and javascript.

If you are looking for a website hosting service (every non-expert needs one), I recommend (and use) GoDaddy.com. Total cost to have your own domain name & site is about $10/year for the domain (www.YourName.com) & $4/month for the hosting service. Whatever you do - don't have your Internet provider host your website. Their prices are sky high and they do not specialize in (or are even guaranteed to know ANYTHING about) web hosting.

Bell South Intros Super High-Speed DSL

Networking Pipeline | Bell South Intros Super High-Speed DSL: "Announced yesterday, the FastAccess DSL Xtreme 6.0 service will provide users with 6 MB connections to support demanding next-generation network applications."

24 Different Way to Tie Your Shoes

Ian's Shoelace Site - Shoe Lacing Methods Learn how to tie your laces using 24 different styles

The Laptop Trail - The Production Line

WSJ.com - The Laptop Trail This is a very interesting Wall Street Journal article on the production chain involved in building laptops.

It's very interesting how the various copanies pit the manufucturers against each other to keep costs down. An very good read.

ForecastFox - New Version - Must have

mozdev.org - forecastfox: index: ForecastFox has become one of my absolute favorite things about FireFox. Current weather conditions, multiday forecasts & even radar images are constantly available.

I like the new feature that actually notifies you when severe weather alerts are issued for your area. So if you're surfing the web & a tornado is heading for your cube - you should have enough notice to backup your data before getting blown away ;)

It is 100% spyware/aware free...and it is slick. All other weather utilities should be avoided like the plague (filled with malicious crap).

"Forecastfox is an extension that brings your local weather from AccuWeather.com to your Firefox web browser. It is unobtrusive and lightweight, yet can be [heavily] customized..."

"We have a new version with a lot of great changes. We've moved weather providers to AccuWeather.com®. As a result, we have more weather data available, including radar images and severe weather alerts!"

Essential Computer Tips Newsletter - Mike Juvrud

Essential Computer Tips Newsletter - Repost This is a repost for all the newcommers to this blog.

The newsletter is intended for computer novices with a step by step guide to removing & keeping the crap off of your computer (for free). If you don't need it for yourself - give it to someone who would likely call you to clean up their malware mess.

PSPad - Freeware Text/Programming Editor

editor PSPad - freeware HTML editor, PHP editor, XHTML, JavaScript, ASP, Perl, C, HEX editor This application actually gives TextPad a run for quality and functionality. I almost exclusively use TextPad (also freeware) for any text editing, and even programming.

If you are still using NotePad or WordPad - please download & try TextPad & PSPad. You will be glad you did. (then again anything is better than Note/WordPad)

Mysterious Beeping in House - Help!

Mysterious Beeping in House - Help! - TiVo Community: OK - now this is a laugh-out-loud FUNNY yet frustrating story. If you have ever posted a question or asked for help on a web forum - this is the mother of all forum responses. OMFG, if you start reading, you'll find it hard to stop.

Here is the start to what was a YEAR-LONG drama:

"Something is beeping in my house and I cant find it for the life of me. I have tried everything. I have spent hours looking for it and I cant find the source.

Its not a smoke alarm. I have taken off each one. Its not the alarm system. I have completely disconnected it and taken it off battery power. The beep remains.

The power on my whole block went out a while ago. Nothing was working. Except the beep. I figured I would let whatever battery it is running on to just run out....well it has been beeping for about a year now...who do I call to help me with this?

It lets out a single beep once every 45-60 seconds. Its so annoying!!!"

DIY eMail Filtering

Mail Filtering - Introduction This site is mostly an excellent how-to & discussion on effective email server management & email protection.

Perhaps if the ISPs would wise up and start doing the same, BASIC stuff - end users wouldn't have such a friggin SPAM problem. Oh-the software & utilities used are all free & open source.

So why don't ISPs do this and save everyone from their SPAM nightmares and perhaps reduce costs...because they are clueless, clueless bastards.

Google Wallpaper Cease & Desist :(

Google Wallpaper Shutdown So Google has shutdown it's first Google Maps offshoot, "Google Wallpaper", for violating the usage policy. Bummer... I bet that will follow with a dozen other great Google Maps sites being shutdown (only for 3 dozen more to pop up).

With that said - the way Google handled the situation is remarkable. You can read the polite & downright friendly quasi cease & desist at what used to be Google Wallpaper.

Computer Shows Online

c-shows If you are like me and can't stand the paultry & horrible technology offerings on traditional TV/cable, you should check out this extensive list of Computer/Tech shows available online & published regularly.

200 free online games

ArcadeMob.com - free online games I haven't tested these games for spyware/adware.

Whatever, you do - don't play these games with Internet Explorer. That way, if there is spyware - it will have a harder time getting installed and being effective. So try the games in FireFox (or other non-IE browser) to be as safe as possible.

10 Mammouth CPU Coolers: Comparison

Tom's Hardware Guide Processors: 10 Mammouth CPU Coolers: Size Does Matter - XXL Coolers Are Becoming A Must-have I use the "Zalman CNPS7700-Cu" - it is absolutely great! It is extremely quiet and keep the Pentium IV, 3.2Ghz processor nice & cool (even when overclocked to 3.6). So that would be my personal recommendation.

DVD Burner round-up: Top 16x drives tested @ TechSpot

DVD Burner round-up: Top 16x drives tested @ TechSpot I have both a Memorex & NEC 16x dual-layer burner - they both work great and I've never had any trouble. (You can get the NEC brand burners cheap at NewEgg.com or ZipZoomFly.com)

Ten CSS tricks you may not know

Ten CSS tricks you may not know

TiVo Codes List

New Almost Complete TiVo Codes List - TiVo Community: If you have a TIVO, you may be interested in some of the secret codes...all you need is your TIVO remote.

"Some of these codes WILL damage your unit if you do not read this entire document for the warnings. Read everything here before going and actually doing any of this crazy stuff, okay?"

Dictionary of Algorithms and Data Structures

Dictionary of Algorithms and Data Structures "This is a dictionary of algorithms, algorithmic techniques, data structures, archetypical problems, and related definitions. Algorithms include common functions, such as Ackermann's function. Problems include traveling salesman and Byzantine generals. Some entries have links to implementations and more information."

Blender3d - Open Source Animation Studio

blender3d.org :: Home: "Blender, the open source software for 3D modeling, animation, rendering, post-production, interactive creation and playback (see the features and screenshots). Available for Windows, Linux, Irix, Sun Solaris, FreeBSD or Mac OS X under the GNU Public License."

Quotes for Programmers

Quotes for Programmers: A little dork humor never hurt anyone, right?

"At this time I do not have a personal relationship with a computer. (Janet Reno)"

Optical Illusions and Visual Phenomena

Optical Illusions and Visual Phenomena: "These pages demonstrate visual phenomena, called �optical illusions� or �visual illusions�. The latter is more appropriate, because most effects have their basis in the visual pathway, not in the optics of the eye. I selected these based on relative novelty and interactivity"

The Complete CSS tutorial

The Complete CSS tutorial It doesn't necessary live up to its name as the "complete" tutorial. However, its good enough to tag for later.

19'' LCD - $300 (AR)

Buy.com - ViewSonic VX910 - 19'' LCD Display 700:1 Contrast Ratio DVI I haven't seen this monitor in action, so I can't say how good it is.

$390 - $90 Mail in Rebate = $300.

Firefox still unstoppable in Europe!

Stats on the rise again, Firefox still unstoppable in Europe! - Spread Firefox The site has the latest stats (and a pretty graphic :) on FireFox useage in Europe.

Did you know over 30% of Internet users in Finland use FireFox? How's that for useless trivia?

NPR Needs to Start Podcasting

NPR Podcasting NPR is asking if it should start podcasting...so visit the link and provide them with your opinion. (simple survey).

Generate a CSS Layout For Your Site

CssCreator->Page Layout The generator will create a CSS layout that has fixed width left and/or right columns with a dynamic width center column, all the same height with header and footer.

Fool's Tools - Computer Pranks

Fool's Tools: Free Downloadable Computer Pranks for April Fool's Day and Beyond!: "Computer pranks to inflict on friends and loved ones. "

OK - so they are a bit golden oldy. However, if you know someone in the office who is afraid of their computer...well, a couple of these will get a good laugh (or beating ;)

Google Hacking

I-Hacked.com Taking Advantage Of Technology - Google Hacking Nothing to new or crazy - but this sort of thing is always helpful to review once in a while.

FireFox Extension - Bit torrent Search Engines

Bit torrent Search Engines for FireFox: This site has over a dozen BitTorrent & other file sharing search engines that can be added directly to your FireFox 'google' search bar.

At the link, scroll down to the "Search results" section - click on any of the Search engine links - you will be asked if you would like to add the search to your browser - say 'yes', and your golden.

Tip: After installing, you will find the search engines by clicking on the google icon in the upper right search box of the FireFox browser. Select a search engine - enter your search terms and hit enter.

Tip2: BitTorrent is the new method of file sharing. It works great for finding that TV show you forgot to TIVO (and other not so innocent endevours).

DIY: Build a silent PC

How To: Build a really, really, really silent PC The site is quite thorough, with good pictures. This DIY tutorial would be good for anyone thinking about building their own PC...all the fundamentals are covered.

Google Maps Wallpaper

Google Maps Wallpaper: "gMerge is a python script that merges Google Maps satellite 'tiles' in order to produce a wallpaper (or even a poster!). Feel free to send us suggestions and comments. "

Tech Podcast

Mike Tech Show Tech Podcast (not mine...a different Mike)

Dell Server $249

Dell PowerEdge SC420 Server Featured Systems A cheap price for an OK, entry level setup.

Firefox Help, Tips and Tricks

Firefox Help, Tips and Tricks: Sample:
"Smart Keywords
The scenerio: you use Google, Internet Movie Database, or even your corporate phone book to find things. Wouldn't it be handy if you could just open your browser and use a short cut to search? Try this:

* Go to the page that has the search box on it, right click in the search box and choose 'Add a Keyword for this Search...'
* In the 'Add Bookmark' dialog that appears enter a name and a short 'keyword' and save the Bookmark...
So, for Merriam-Webseter Online (www.m-w.com) you'd right click in the search box, enter a keyword you'll remember like mw and save the bookmark.
Now you can type 'mw frogs' in the URL field of your browser and you'll be taken to the Merriam-Webster site to see the results of your search. You won't want to live with out it!
Note: This works with Google Desktop Search too! I have a shortcut called GDS that I use for a quick search of my desktop."

freesound :: home page

freesound :: home page: "The Freesound Project - a collaborative database of Creative Commons licensed sounds"

Dictionary of Algorithms and Data Structures

Dictionary of Algorithms and Data Structures This is a dictionary of algorithms, algorithmic techniques, data structures, archetypical problems, and related definitions. Algorithms include common functions, such as Ackermann's function. Problems include traveling salesman and Byzantine generals. Some entries have links to implementations and more information.

Changing planet revealed in atlas

BBC NEWS | Science/Nature | Changing planet revealed in atlas: "An atlas of environmental change compiled by the United Nations reveals some of the dramatic transformations that are occurring to our planet."

DIY Setting Up Linux Server

HarrySufehmi.com - Setting Up Linux Server This tutorial really should be titled "How to get your Debian server off the ground as quickly as possible", since it's based on minimal Debian Linux (stable) install. Here you'll be able to get your box secured very quickly, and then get the services running with minimum hassle and pain.

Laptops Now More Popular Than Desktops - Yahoo! News

Laptops Now More Popular Than Desktops - Yahoo! News: "In a sure sign that the era of mobile computing has arrived, notebooks have for the first time outsold desktops in the United States in a calendar month, the research firm Current Analysis says." (Of course, this is Yahoo! News...so who are you to believe ;)

PUBLICip - Free WiFi Solutions for Free WiFi Access

PUBLICip - Free WiFi Solutions for Free WiFi Access The Public IP ZoneCD is what's known as a LiveCD. The ZoneCD is a bootable CD with a collection of GNU/Linux software pre-configured to create a WiFi gateway.

How to Solder Electronics - NASA videos

How to Solder Electronics: "Here are a set of six video clips that demonstrate good technique for soldering electronic circuits. Each one is a 1.3 Megabyte MPEG file. Download them and play them back to review the basics of soldering."

Google Sitemaps - for Webmasters

Google Sitemaps - Welcome!: "Google Sitemaps is an easy way for you to help improve your coverage in the Google index. It's a collaborative crawling system that enables you to communicate directly with Google to keep us informed of all your web pages, and when you make changes to these pages."

Nice CSS Layouts

Little Boxes

Hilarious Pic - must see!

friends-dont-let-friends-use-ie.jpg (JPEG Image, 576x743 pixels)

Hacker Hunters

Hacker Hunters BusinessWeek Online documents how the Secret Service turned a member of the ShadowCrew and was able to arrest dozens of the members of the phishing ring. From the article: 'Law enforcement officials are often loath to reveal details of their operations, but the Secret Service and Justice Dept. wanted to publicize a still-rare victory. So they agreed to reveal the inner dynamics of their cat-and-mouse chase to BusinessWeek. The case provides a window into the arcane culture of cybercriminals and the methods of their pursuers.

Open Source Geospatial '05 (MapServer Conf)

Open Source Geospatial '05 June 16-18, 2005 - the conference is coming up quick. If you are a major GIS/mapping geek and haven't already made plans to attend, check out the updated, detailed itinerary at: http://mapserver.gis.umn.edu/mum/draft_prog.pdf

FireFox wins Product of the Year (PCWorld)

PCWorld.com - The 100 Best Products of 2005 Firefox has received PC World's Product of the Year award.

It looks like FireFox is making a clean sweap of all the major accolaids this year.

HBO's Carnivale Cancelled - Noooo!!!

Save Carnivale - Dedicated fans committed to bringing back HBO's Carnivale OK - so this post is way out of the oridinary for me. But HBO cancelling Carnivale? Man, that was the best show on television. What a crapper!

Anyway - that is just shitty news.

Office: 100 tips and tricks - Part 1

Office: 100 tips and tricks - Part 1 - Computeract!ve The Microsoft Office suite is chock full of advanced features and it is easy to miss many of the things you can do with all of the programs. Computeractive has written the first two parts of an article that explains their top 100 tips and tricks for using MS Office.

KNOPPIX -3.9 Released

KNOPPIX - Mirrors Knoppix is a Linux distribution that runs off of a CD - so any Linux newbie can try it without affecting their Windows installation.

At the link - select a mirror (download location) to download - burn to a CD. Put the CD in and reboot your machine. Voila - you can try Linux. (The distribution includes all the basics...including OpenOffice)

250GB Hard Drive $70 (no rebates)

Staples | Enter U.S. ZIP Code Staples has the Maxtor 250GB 7200RPM ATA Internal Hard Drive for $70 with no rebates. This is a clearance item and may be out of stock in some areas. It's a great deal because usually these drives have $100 mail in rebates, whereas this one has no rebates.

At the link - enter your zip code.

That little “XHTML or HTML?” debate

Turnip’s Patch � That little “XHTML or HTML?” debate A fairly comprehensive summary to the growing HTML vs. XHTML debate. Good read to catch up on some things in the web development community.

DIY 802.11b WiFi Antenna

Homebrew antenna shootout Have a Pringles can? How about an old satellite dish? A coffee can? OK a soup can will even work - now go ahead and make yourself a wireless Internet antenna with MILES of range.

Anti-Anti-Piracy Seal

53x11.com | Music | Anti-Anti-Piracy Seal If you haven't seen the FBI's new Anti-Piracy Seal yet, well…you must not have bought anything new within the last year.

In an effort to combat the FBI's Anti-Piracy Seal, I have created an alternative logo for artists who aren't concerned with file sharing and federal level copyright infringement.

Spybot-S&D - version 1.4

Download Spybot S&D version 1.4 A new version of Spybot Search and Destroy 1.4 was released today. Click the link to go directly to the downloads page.

Google Code: Summer of Code

Google Code: Summer of Code The Summer of Code is Google's program designed to introduce students to the world of Open Source Software Development.

This Summer, don't let your programming skills lie fallow...Use them for the greater good of Open Source Software and computer science! Google will provide a $4500 award to each student who successfully completes an open source project by the end of the Summer. (payment details can be found in FAQ)