So it's been over six months since Apple started selling the iPad... so many people are enjoying the tablet almost-computer, and others are anxiously awaiting the Next Big Thing. The hype has been all about the Android operating system and using it on larger-than-cellphone devices - much like Apple is using the same OS it created originally for the iPhone.
Enter the Samsung Galaxy Tab. After much waiting, hype, and anticipation, this Next Big Thing is now available to the general public - if you don't mind paying premium prices through the various cellphone service providers. Reviews are starting to come from the various geek sources (Engadget for one), giving all the details about the size, handling, capabilities, etc. For all the tech details about the processor, memory, and expandability, they have all the information.
I took some time this afternoon and hustled over to my local cell provider, where they have both of these top-running tablet computers available for the public. At first glance, the obvious - the Tab is a smaller device. It is much larger than your average phone - even something as large as a Droid X or Incredible - but small enough to hold in one hand if you have a fairly wide grip. The feel as you hold it is fairly solid - this isn't some cheap import just trying, but a sturdy little machine. But the surface seemed almost sticky, and my fingers couldn't slide across it easily. Trying to type was a little difficult as well - although it is smaller than the iPad, and provides a decent portrait thumb-able keyboard for quick use, turning the Tab to a landscape profile made it an entirely different beast. The keyboard was no longer small enough to reach easily with just the thumbs, but was too small to type on as a normal keyboard. Visually the interface was decent - much as one would expect from the smaller android cellphones. I did not spend too much time working the various applications pre-loaded, only checked out what was available and seeing how the web and typing might work out.
The iPad is almost a normal-sized computer in comparison. It's larger size does make it heavier, but it does feel very solid (as with most all of Apple's products), and although the portrait profile is about as wide as the Tab's landscape, with the same difficulty in "thumb typing", when you turn the iPad its landscape keyboard is about the same size as your average netbook keyboard. And the smooth-glass screen on the iPad makes it easier to slide your fingers across and not feel like you're sticking to the screen or trying to type on some kind of rubber surface.
Both seem to be capable almost-computers overall. They offer a decently portable size for simple entertainment pleasures, but do fall short when it comes to some computing power, because of the limitations from their operating systems, I think. But there is a difference in price, with the smaller Tab averaging to be more expensive than a comparable iPad. Yes, the Tab does have two cameras to the iPad's none, and the Tab also provides expandability with an SD-card slot easily accessible on the edge. But after getting some time playing with the two nearly side-by-side, I am still leaning towards the iPad for ease of use and capability overall.
Granted, I wouldn't turn down either one if it were given to me as a present, but when I get to the point of buying something to replace my aging laptop and iPod Touch, I will probably be looking into the iPad to combine the best of both worlds.
Keep trying, Samsung... you're almost there.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Alas, Poor SCIFI, I knew him well...
While cruising through Facebook and catching up on the morning events there, I came across as post via the "Caprica Season 2" fan list which linked to an open letter to the Syfy network (the FB link sends you here which then links to the actual Syfy forum post here). When I first heard the news, I sent in my own "open letter" through their website feedback forms, but have not received a response - nor do I expect one.
This latest open letter is an excellent post, well thought out and presented. My own was a bit more emotional and negative, but I admit I can be rather emotional when I am passionate about my topic. I have been to $yfy's forums and read this letter, but I will not deign to register an account and reply. They can read what I have to say right here.
...if they even care, which I doubt.
I agree with the post and have already stopped watching any programming on $yfy. I watched one last show after the cancellation announcement, and I want those two hours back (Red, with Felicia Day, which was well hyped, but fell way short of entertaining).
I remember Dresden Files, and know it was cancelled quickly. I know Firefly was given just as much chance to succeed by Fox, and never did. Moonlight much the same.
And now, Caprica.
Stick a fork in me, I'm done. I have deselected $yfy from my tv's channels, and will no longer enjoy the few decent shows remaining, like Eureka, Warehouse13, and SGU. I do apologize to the hard working actors and crew of those three shows - they are an excellent example of what the SCIFI channel had to offer. Ever since they changed the network to $yfy though, they've continually gotten away from the original niche they had cultivated, instead pursuing the almighty buck. It is a shame, because I did enjoy those shows immensely; but why should I invest any more time into those shows, knowing they can be pulled and replaced with wrestling and reality tv shows?
Alas, poor SCIFI, I knew him well...
...but I have no idea who this $yfy is trying to replace him, other than a font of disappointment.
This latest open letter is an excellent post, well thought out and presented. My own was a bit more emotional and negative, but I admit I can be rather emotional when I am passionate about my topic. I have been to $yfy's forums and read this letter, but I will not deign to register an account and reply. They can read what I have to say right here.
...if they even care, which I doubt.
I agree with the post and have already stopped watching any programming on $yfy. I watched one last show after the cancellation announcement, and I want those two hours back (Red, with Felicia Day, which was well hyped, but fell way short of entertaining).
I remember Dresden Files, and know it was cancelled quickly. I know Firefly was given just as much chance to succeed by Fox, and never did. Moonlight much the same.
And now, Caprica.
Stick a fork in me, I'm done. I have deselected $yfy from my tv's channels, and will no longer enjoy the few decent shows remaining, like Eureka, Warehouse13, and SGU. I do apologize to the hard working actors and crew of those three shows - they are an excellent example of what the SCIFI channel had to offer. Ever since they changed the network to $yfy though, they've continually gotten away from the original niche they had cultivated, instead pursuing the almighty buck. It is a shame, because I did enjoy those shows immensely; but why should I invest any more time into those shows, knowing they can be pulled and replaced with wrestling and reality tv shows?
Alas, poor SCIFI, I knew him well...
...but I have no idea who this $yfy is trying to replace him, other than a font of disappointment.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Miracle from the Media
It's a miracle. Over two months of waiting, planning, and preparing, and then in less than 24-hours a media miracle.
Yes, after 70-days of waiting, the Chilean miners have been retrieved from what would have been their final resting place. Thirty-three men, trapped without knowing if they will survive at all for the first seventeen days, free to roam above the earth once more. And the stories to come will fill the papers, magazines, television and online media outlets for months yet.
Not to mention the book and movie deals they're sure to try.
Seventy days. Over two months without seeing the sun or loved ones except by remote camera. Even the longest patrols on a submarine don't keep the sailors from fresh air and sunlight that long usually - although contact with the rest of the world is even more limited.
Thanks to modern technology, the trapped miners were able to see and speak to loved ones on videophone links, one even able to see the birth of their child while still a half-mile underground. Music and medicine shared with ease, either through streamed sources online, or personal media players donated to the men.
The speed which care provided remotely during the rescue preparations contributed to the well-being of the miners, and many of them are already home with loved ones after barely a day - and most are expected home before the weekend is out.
And then the next media miracle will happen - the tours of talk shows, interviews, and possible book and movie deals which will be poured like Niagra Falls at their feet.
But there is another media miracle which has already happened. The lack of intrusive coverage into these men's lives (at least on an international level). Although there was expected a little drama when one man's reported mistress was the first person to welcome him, it was barely brushed over by a few news sites, and most didn't even discuss it at all. This was something almost worthy of "Reality TV" in the United States. But it was underplayed instead.
So for another couple of weeks the miners will be the hot topic around the watercooler, until the next major news story breaks, and the world media descends onto the scene like carrion birds. At least this time it didn't feel like they were waiting for death, but presented hope in the best way possible.
Yes, after 70-days of waiting, the Chilean miners have been retrieved from what would have been their final resting place. Thirty-three men, trapped without knowing if they will survive at all for the first seventeen days, free to roam above the earth once more. And the stories to come will fill the papers, magazines, television and online media outlets for months yet.
Not to mention the book and movie deals they're sure to try.
Seventy days. Over two months without seeing the sun or loved ones except by remote camera. Even the longest patrols on a submarine don't keep the sailors from fresh air and sunlight that long usually - although contact with the rest of the world is even more limited.
Thanks to modern technology, the trapped miners were able to see and speak to loved ones on videophone links, one even able to see the birth of their child while still a half-mile underground. Music and medicine shared with ease, either through streamed sources online, or personal media players donated to the men.
The speed which care provided remotely during the rescue preparations contributed to the well-being of the miners, and many of them are already home with loved ones after barely a day - and most are expected home before the weekend is out.
And then the next media miracle will happen - the tours of talk shows, interviews, and possible book and movie deals which will be poured like Niagra Falls at their feet.
But there is another media miracle which has already happened. The lack of intrusive coverage into these men's lives (at least on an international level). Although there was expected a little drama when one man's reported mistress was the first person to welcome him, it was barely brushed over by a few news sites, and most didn't even discuss it at all. This was something almost worthy of "Reality TV" in the United States. But it was underplayed instead.
So for another couple of weeks the miners will be the hot topic around the watercooler, until the next major news story breaks, and the world media descends onto the scene like carrion birds. At least this time it didn't feel like they were waiting for death, but presented hope in the best way possible.
Friday, June 18, 2010
It's Been a While
This blog has sat idle for a while.. after a position change from the news department back into the studio production crew, news has flowed a little slower through life for a busy technician.
But there are still events happening which should be reported on, and opinion generated from this corner of the world. One of the biggest is the BP oil fiasco going on in the Gulf of Mexico. Too much that seems to be behind the scenes, and not enough being told to the public.
What preparations were in place to prevent or limit such a catastrophe? From what it seems like from news coverage, there didn't seem to be any real failsafe. Granted, when dealing with extreme depths there are difficulties to overcome, but such plans should have been made in the eventuality of a catastrophic loss such as has happened.
And the government has been fairly quick to accuse, yet slow to respond. Even with the requirement of orders filtering down from the commanding centers of our military, it should not have taken a month to get ships equipped to handle the oil down to the Gulf to aid in clean up. There was a Coast Guard vessel specifically designed to skim oil which sat idle at it's homeport in North Carolina for a month before she received orders to sail.
With accusations flying, from the manufacturers of certain parts along the pipeline to the subcontractor who ran the actual platform, British Petroleum is the company over all. In this day and age, most try to find a scapegoat, and refuse to take responsibility, instead making excuses and half-hearted apologies.
BP needs to step up and stop stalling. From what news sources have covered, it has taken acts of Congress and the President to force any sort of acceptance for responsibility and recovery. Now, almost two months after the initial blast, a fund is being set up to help those who have lost their livelihood to the oil spill and cover recovery efforts. Something like this should have been in place already, and even with it not in place, it should have been set up faster and without government prompting.
And of course there's the government. "We'll get to the bottom of this," they say. But what is there to get to the bottom of? The platform is owned by British Petroleum. That's it, end of story, clean up your mess and pay up. What does the government really need to do here? Other than the usual democratic red tape parade to bring all the oil companies under scrutiny, create more regulations that will probably be ignored in the long run, and waste more taxpayer money appointing new people to inspect and regulate as effectively as before.
Which is to say, not so great.
But there are still events happening which should be reported on, and opinion generated from this corner of the world. One of the biggest is the BP oil fiasco going on in the Gulf of Mexico. Too much that seems to be behind the scenes, and not enough being told to the public.
What preparations were in place to prevent or limit such a catastrophe? From what it seems like from news coverage, there didn't seem to be any real failsafe. Granted, when dealing with extreme depths there are difficulties to overcome, but such plans should have been made in the eventuality of a catastrophic loss such as has happened.
And the government has been fairly quick to accuse, yet slow to respond. Even with the requirement of orders filtering down from the commanding centers of our military, it should not have taken a month to get ships equipped to handle the oil down to the Gulf to aid in clean up. There was a Coast Guard vessel specifically designed to skim oil which sat idle at it's homeport in North Carolina for a month before she received orders to sail.
With accusations flying, from the manufacturers of certain parts along the pipeline to the subcontractor who ran the actual platform, British Petroleum is the company over all. In this day and age, most try to find a scapegoat, and refuse to take responsibility, instead making excuses and half-hearted apologies.
BP needs to step up and stop stalling. From what news sources have covered, it has taken acts of Congress and the President to force any sort of acceptance for responsibility and recovery. Now, almost two months after the initial blast, a fund is being set up to help those who have lost their livelihood to the oil spill and cover recovery efforts. Something like this should have been in place already, and even with it not in place, it should have been set up faster and without government prompting.
And of course there's the government. "We'll get to the bottom of this," they say. But what is there to get to the bottom of? The platform is owned by British Petroleum. That's it, end of story, clean up your mess and pay up. What does the government really need to do here? Other than the usual democratic red tape parade to bring all the oil companies under scrutiny, create more regulations that will probably be ignored in the long run, and waste more taxpayer money appointing new people to inspect and regulate as effectively as before.
Which is to say, not so great.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Speech Isn't Free
There's no such thing as a free lunch.
And there's no such thing as free speech.
Even in the great United States, everything comes with a price. We may not pay the price directly, but someone does. The writer and editor burning the midnight oil to get all the facts for a news article are paying with their time away from family. The factory worker on the double-shift again so he can afford to send his kids to the college he never made it to.
...and the military members and their families who worry and wonder if they'll share another day together.
As the saying goes, "Opinions are like assholes. Everyone has one and most of them stink." Freedom of speech is supposed to allow us to express those opinions openly, without fear of reprisal. I get that, and I support that wholeheartedly. I have my own opinions which may not be popular with some who find this blog, or read other things I have written in the past. But I still have the ability and legal protection to express those thoughts and opinions I want to share.
Within reason, of course.
What's that? "Within reason"? You can say whatever you want, where you want, and no one can stop you. That's the law, as protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. What is this "reason" you think limits us?
It is exactly that. REASON. The difference between sentient, thinking beings, and raw, emotional animals. The First Amendment protects our individual right of expression. It guarantees that what your opinion may be, and how you express yourself, is a freedom that should not be limited by law. The battle over protecting this freedom has been fought over and again, on the battlefield and in the courtroom.
The problem today though is people forget common sense. Boundaries are no longer sacred, lines get crossed, and one person's opinion sparks confrontation. Just because we are allowed to express ourselves openly doesn't excuse us from thinking. There is a right way - and a wrong way - of expressing displeasure and a difference of opinion. Writing letters to newspapers, opinion emails to television stations, and other correspondence with our elected officials is one thing. Taking our frustrations out on one lone individual who isn't truly the cause of the problem, or responsible for the issue, is entirely out of hand.
Common decency can't replace common sense. But such is becoming almost commonplace now. And it's getting worse, when a grieving family is forced to put up with protestors who demonstrate right outside the church where they are holding the funeral for their dead son, killed in the line of duty while serving in the Army. The family sued the protest organizers, won their case, but then it was overturned on appeal - to the point where the grieving family was ordered to pay the legal fees for the protestors! This case is now going to the U.S. Supreme Court - and will surely be a landmark decision.
I fully support the freedom of speech. Even if I don't agree with those protesters, they have the right to their opinion. But I don't support their actions - the lack of common sense and common decency to allow the family to grieve is just wrong to me on so many levels. People want to stand up and say something but when the push comes, they don't want to take responsibility for their actions, and want everyone else to pay for their poor judgement.
And there's no such thing as free speech.
Even in the great United States, everything comes with a price. We may not pay the price directly, but someone does. The writer and editor burning the midnight oil to get all the facts for a news article are paying with their time away from family. The factory worker on the double-shift again so he can afford to send his kids to the college he never made it to.
...and the military members and their families who worry and wonder if they'll share another day together.
As the saying goes, "Opinions are like assholes. Everyone has one and most of them stink." Freedom of speech is supposed to allow us to express those opinions openly, without fear of reprisal. I get that, and I support that wholeheartedly. I have my own opinions which may not be popular with some who find this blog, or read other things I have written in the past. But I still have the ability and legal protection to express those thoughts and opinions I want to share.
Within reason, of course.
What's that? "Within reason"? You can say whatever you want, where you want, and no one can stop you. That's the law, as protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. What is this "reason" you think limits us?
It is exactly that. REASON. The difference between sentient, thinking beings, and raw, emotional animals. The First Amendment protects our individual right of expression. It guarantees that what your opinion may be, and how you express yourself, is a freedom that should not be limited by law. The battle over protecting this freedom has been fought over and again, on the battlefield and in the courtroom.
The problem today though is people forget common sense. Boundaries are no longer sacred, lines get crossed, and one person's opinion sparks confrontation. Just because we are allowed to express ourselves openly doesn't excuse us from thinking. There is a right way - and a wrong way - of expressing displeasure and a difference of opinion. Writing letters to newspapers, opinion emails to television stations, and other correspondence with our elected officials is one thing. Taking our frustrations out on one lone individual who isn't truly the cause of the problem, or responsible for the issue, is entirely out of hand.
Common decency can't replace common sense. But such is becoming almost commonplace now. And it's getting worse, when a grieving family is forced to put up with protestors who demonstrate right outside the church where they are holding the funeral for their dead son, killed in the line of duty while serving in the Army. The family sued the protest organizers, won their case, but then it was overturned on appeal - to the point where the grieving family was ordered to pay the legal fees for the protestors! This case is now going to the U.S. Supreme Court - and will surely be a landmark decision.
I fully support the freedom of speech. Even if I don't agree with those protesters, they have the right to their opinion. But I don't support their actions - the lack of common sense and common decency to allow the family to grieve is just wrong to me on so many levels. People want to stand up and say something but when the push comes, they don't want to take responsibility for their actions, and want everyone else to pay for their poor judgement.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
To Buy, Or Not To Buy
...whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer the bluescreens and pointers of outrageous Windows, or take arms against an operating system of troubles and, by opposing, end their monopoly.
...err, or something like that.
The wait is almost over, and the Next Big Thing from Apple Computing is about to hit the streets. A few reviews are already out, and more will surely happen over the coming days as the new tablet almost-computer goes public. The pre-release reception, ever since the original unveiling at the beginning of the year, has been mixed. This is definitely going to be a niche device, even though competitors are already fast at showing off their own versions of keyboard-less computing.
Palmtop computing has taken great strides since the first Personal Data Assistant devices hit the markets. Monochrome gave way to color, memory expansion turned into accessories, and eventually the devices added wireless connectivity to the point where PDAs melded with cellphones.
Desktop computing has also moved in leaps and bounds. As desktop computers became commonplace, laptops started to be optimized for business, and eventually even caught up to what most home users wanted for their personal entertainment. Video displays got larger, more powerful, and the laptop is now replacing most desktop systems for the average computer enthusiast. Extreme gaming and other high-end graphics still usually need the power of a full desktop machine, but even that fine line is getting blurry.
Laptops started getting too big, so people want to go small again. Netbooks came around, with smaller sizes yet fast and efficient processors. The latest 3-D games might not play so well on the tiny Acer and HPs, but surfing the web, checking email, and even daily work isn't too bad, and with the smaller footprint, all the easier to pack up and take home at the end of the day.
Cellphones - now smartphones - grew up from PDAs. Laptops grew up (down?) from Desktops. Apple's iPad and other tablet computing systems are coming to try and fill that final gap.
But why? Is there really a need for something almost the size and weight of a netbook, but with the power of an iPod Touch or iPhone?
I've been watching the consumer computing market for a little while. My two desktop systems are rapidly approaching the end of their lifecycle, and it is getting harder to find replacement parts to make even minor upgrades and repairs. At the same time, the notebook I purchased almost four years ago has also decided it doesn't want to load anymore. As a budding writer and news hound, it is almost impossible to work without some kind of computing system. So the hunt is on to find the next useful toy for my computing arsenal.
That being said, I have never been a real fan of Microsoft Windows. Although the operating system has gotten better over the years, there are still some issues which bug me. Customization being one of the key things. I don't do a lot of power computing, but I do like the security and customization capabilities of Linux. But Linux isn't the be-all-end-all system either, because it can lag behind in capabilities with newer computers and peripherals, and on the occasion of desiring to play a hot new game, even with Windows emulations it isn't quite up to speed. Apple's main operating system - OSX "Leopard" - has a nice layout and is fairly secure (being based on BSD). But the hardware is much more expensive, and there can still be some compatiblity issues.
But do I really need all that power at my fingertips anymore? The more I look at my computers, my cellphone (LG enV Touch - the not-quite-so-smart-phone), and even the iPod Touch I snagged last Fall, the more I fall to the smaller, handier gadgets and away from the computers. With the laptop dead for all intents and purposes, I should replace it with something equally portable. As much as I like the iPod, it's a bit small for some of my daily tasks, and the cellphone is equally small, and not quite as user-friendly for some things.
I like how the iPad looks, and the ease of use I found with the iPod translates well since the new tablet is mostly an oversided Touch. One review I read already was actually written using the iPad, and that reviewer seemed to like it. Others have downplayed the touchscreen keyboard and claimed it isn't comfortable for long bouts of computing genius.
As much as I do enjoy writing, blogging, and general chatting, I don't expect marathon sessions on the device I decide to get. If the iPad does come within my reach, I will surely have to give it a test drive - and I will be watching the reviews and demonstrations over the next few days as the showcase is unveiled. My other option is to find a netbook, and hope it will take an Ubuntu install.
Ultimately, is all the hype going to prove itself or is this next generation destined to follow the last attempt by Apple - the Newton?
...err, or something like that.
The wait is almost over, and the Next Big Thing from Apple Computing is about to hit the streets. A few reviews are already out, and more will surely happen over the coming days as the new tablet almost-computer goes public. The pre-release reception, ever since the original unveiling at the beginning of the year, has been mixed. This is definitely going to be a niche device, even though competitors are already fast at showing off their own versions of keyboard-less computing.
Palmtop computing has taken great strides since the first Personal Data Assistant devices hit the markets. Monochrome gave way to color, memory expansion turned into accessories, and eventually the devices added wireless connectivity to the point where PDAs melded with cellphones.
Desktop computing has also moved in leaps and bounds. As desktop computers became commonplace, laptops started to be optimized for business, and eventually even caught up to what most home users wanted for their personal entertainment. Video displays got larger, more powerful, and the laptop is now replacing most desktop systems for the average computer enthusiast. Extreme gaming and other high-end graphics still usually need the power of a full desktop machine, but even that fine line is getting blurry.
Laptops started getting too big, so people want to go small again. Netbooks came around, with smaller sizes yet fast and efficient processors. The latest 3-D games might not play so well on the tiny Acer and HPs, but surfing the web, checking email, and even daily work isn't too bad, and with the smaller footprint, all the easier to pack up and take home at the end of the day.
Cellphones - now smartphones - grew up from PDAs. Laptops grew up (down?) from Desktops. Apple's iPad and other tablet computing systems are coming to try and fill that final gap.
But why? Is there really a need for something almost the size and weight of a netbook, but with the power of an iPod Touch or iPhone?
I've been watching the consumer computing market for a little while. My two desktop systems are rapidly approaching the end of their lifecycle, and it is getting harder to find replacement parts to make even minor upgrades and repairs. At the same time, the notebook I purchased almost four years ago has also decided it doesn't want to load anymore. As a budding writer and news hound, it is almost impossible to work without some kind of computing system. So the hunt is on to find the next useful toy for my computing arsenal.
That being said, I have never been a real fan of Microsoft Windows. Although the operating system has gotten better over the years, there are still some issues which bug me. Customization being one of the key things. I don't do a lot of power computing, but I do like the security and customization capabilities of Linux. But Linux isn't the be-all-end-all system either, because it can lag behind in capabilities with newer computers and peripherals, and on the occasion of desiring to play a hot new game, even with Windows emulations it isn't quite up to speed. Apple's main operating system - OSX "Leopard" - has a nice layout and is fairly secure (being based on BSD). But the hardware is much more expensive, and there can still be some compatiblity issues.
But do I really need all that power at my fingertips anymore? The more I look at my computers, my cellphone (LG enV Touch - the not-quite-so-smart-phone), and even the iPod Touch I snagged last Fall, the more I fall to the smaller, handier gadgets and away from the computers. With the laptop dead for all intents and purposes, I should replace it with something equally portable. As much as I like the iPod, it's a bit small for some of my daily tasks, and the cellphone is equally small, and not quite as user-friendly for some things.
I like how the iPad looks, and the ease of use I found with the iPod translates well since the new tablet is mostly an oversided Touch. One review I read already was actually written using the iPad, and that reviewer seemed to like it. Others have downplayed the touchscreen keyboard and claimed it isn't comfortable for long bouts of computing genius.
As much as I do enjoy writing, blogging, and general chatting, I don't expect marathon sessions on the device I decide to get. If the iPad does come within my reach, I will surely have to give it a test drive - and I will be watching the reviews and demonstrations over the next few days as the showcase is unveiled. My other option is to find a netbook, and hope it will take an Ubuntu install.
Ultimately, is all the hype going to prove itself or is this next generation destined to follow the last attempt by Apple - the Newton?
Friday, March 26, 2010
Health Care Reform
Yeah... I wasn't going to go all mainstream, but this is a hot topic like no other. After months and years of arguing both sides, the deal is done, and health care reform is now the law. I'm not sure anyone knows what it means - there are as many opinions on the matter as there are members of Congress, it seems.
I won't say where I stand on the matter, because like so many other Americans, I really don't know how it will affect me yet. There is hope it will make things easier in my life, because coverage will get less expensive in the long run, but right now, I know my out-of-pocket expenses are pretty sucky if I have to see someone besides my primary physician.
The one problem I do have is how one-sided the measure is. Depending on who you talk to, what polls are referenced, there is a fair amount of underwhelming support. Not a single Republican has voted for the initial bill-now-law, nor for the "fix-it" measure that was bounced back and forth between the two legislative branches. The GOP claim a less than 40-percent public approval of this "bold new plan" for health care. Meanwhile the appearance is the Democrats pushed the bill through for their own agenda and disregarded all of their talk of bipartisanship and compromise.
So now the question is where does this leave us? This hot topic isn't going to just go away now that the President has signed it into law. Right or wrong, the Republicans will take this to the voting booth when the mid-term elections happen in November, and make it a key issue in their platform. And Democrats will continue to thumb their noses at the GOP in hopes they can retain their power.
In the end, We the People will suffer the outcome... no matter who wins.
I won't say where I stand on the matter, because like so many other Americans, I really don't know how it will affect me yet. There is hope it will make things easier in my life, because coverage will get less expensive in the long run, but right now, I know my out-of-pocket expenses are pretty sucky if I have to see someone besides my primary physician.
The one problem I do have is how one-sided the measure is. Depending on who you talk to, what polls are referenced, there is a fair amount of underwhelming support. Not a single Republican has voted for the initial bill-now-law, nor for the "fix-it" measure that was bounced back and forth between the two legislative branches. The GOP claim a less than 40-percent public approval of this "bold new plan" for health care. Meanwhile the appearance is the Democrats pushed the bill through for their own agenda and disregarded all of their talk of bipartisanship and compromise.
So now the question is where does this leave us? This hot topic isn't going to just go away now that the President has signed it into law. Right or wrong, the Republicans will take this to the voting booth when the mid-term elections happen in November, and make it a key issue in their platform. And Democrats will continue to thumb their noses at the GOP in hopes they can retain their power.
In the end, We the People will suffer the outcome... no matter who wins.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Drawing the Fine Line
"I felt like, as an individual Christian, who believes that God created life and only got has a right to terminate life, that I as an individual human being had to take action."
That is what one county commissioner said in an interview on one of our local news stations. He is one of six who voted Monday to adjust county employees' health insurance to no longer cover elective abortion. A county employee who decides to have an abortion will now have to pay for it out-of-pocket. This affects both female employees and the spouses of male employees. Only two voted against the change.
There are exemptions for cases of medical necessity, rape, or incest.
But the commissioner in question suggested this change not in the interest of saving money, or any other secular or political reason. He freely admits to it being about his personal beliefs.
Far be it from me to tell anyone what they should believe, or how they should worship. And most people I know are usually "live and let live" types. I am also not saying that I condone abortion out of hand as solely a form of "hail mary" birth control.
This is clearly a case of personal bias and religion being played out in a public forum. Where is the separation of church and state? There is an increasing amount of pressure coming from the religious "right" in this country, pushing their agenda of morality harder into the mainstream. This is another case of legislating the morality of the people.
And that is something our founding fathers were against.
Too many times people presume to know the thoughts of the founding fathers, and continue to try to legislate personal liberties away, instead of educating the public - and themeselves. A well-informed populace can decide for themselves, and people will choose a moral path in most cases. Making more laws only means more laws will be broken.
So what's next? How far will this go before someone stands up to say, "enough is enough"? It should be up to every individual to deal with their conscience and decide personal morality. And unless the choices they make directly impact the lives of other human beings, then allow people the freedom of choice.
That is what one county commissioner said in an interview on one of our local news stations. He is one of six who voted Monday to adjust county employees' health insurance to no longer cover elective abortion. A county employee who decides to have an abortion will now have to pay for it out-of-pocket. This affects both female employees and the spouses of male employees. Only two voted against the change.
There are exemptions for cases of medical necessity, rape, or incest.
But the commissioner in question suggested this change not in the interest of saving money, or any other secular or political reason. He freely admits to it being about his personal beliefs.
Far be it from me to tell anyone what they should believe, or how they should worship. And most people I know are usually "live and let live" types. I am also not saying that I condone abortion out of hand as solely a form of "hail mary" birth control.
This is clearly a case of personal bias and religion being played out in a public forum. Where is the separation of church and state? There is an increasing amount of pressure coming from the religious "right" in this country, pushing their agenda of morality harder into the mainstream. This is another case of legislating the morality of the people.
And that is something our founding fathers were against.
Too many times people presume to know the thoughts of the founding fathers, and continue to try to legislate personal liberties away, instead of educating the public - and themeselves. A well-informed populace can decide for themselves, and people will choose a moral path in most cases. Making more laws only means more laws will be broken.
So what's next? How far will this go before someone stands up to say, "enough is enough"? It should be up to every individual to deal with their conscience and decide personal morality. And unless the choices they make directly impact the lives of other human beings, then allow people the freedom of choice.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
I Didn't Get to Say Goodbye
So it's the end of the work week. Actually, I've already been done since Friday morning, so I'm already well into my Saturday; that's what happens when you start at midnight Monday morning. The news business can be funny that way. Especially when something hot comes up in the last few hours of the morning, and I end up being the "go to" guy to get the quick video. Makes for a long morning...
Not only is it the end of the week, some might call it the end of an era.
Our morning anchor has left the Southeast to return to her roots up North. She will be missed by some, I'm sure; there are others who are probably happy to see her go. Plenty of people from the newsroom came out in the morning to wish her well, with hot chocolate and Dunkin' Donuts. They seemed to be having a good time, but the news doesn't always wait. I was out the door with camera in hand just as the crowd gathered, and by the time I returned most of the treats were gone.
A fire broke out at a restaurant in the early hours, in a town about an hour from our station. Everything seems to be an hour from the studio, especially when it's something fairly big - fires, car accidents, shootings and other crimes. Grabbing a camera and dashing off to get decent video is what I live for. I know I can write, I have a fair handle on producing a newscast I think, but getting behind a camera, finding the angle, putting it all together, is a technical and artistic accomplishment which satisfies me.
As I said, once I returned, the food was mostly eaten, the newsroom was starting to meet for the daily routine, and the work was still there to finish for me. I managed to put together a good video, and left it in good hands. Turning around the office as I grabbed my stuff to go, I saw no sign of the departing anchor.
Things were left unsaid; it probably should bother me, but I really am not losing sleep over it. I do wish her the best as she returns home, and hold no ill will towards her. I learned a lot early on working with her, so I am grateful for that.
But I didn't get to say goodbye.
So there it is... goodbye. It's all the closure I need at this point; there is no need to dwell on the past, this is the news business after all. Time to look forward to hunting down the next story, and working with the new morning anchor.
Not only is it the end of the week, some might call it the end of an era.
Our morning anchor has left the Southeast to return to her roots up North. She will be missed by some, I'm sure; there are others who are probably happy to see her go. Plenty of people from the newsroom came out in the morning to wish her well, with hot chocolate and Dunkin' Donuts. They seemed to be having a good time, but the news doesn't always wait. I was out the door with camera in hand just as the crowd gathered, and by the time I returned most of the treats were gone.
A fire broke out at a restaurant in the early hours, in a town about an hour from our station. Everything seems to be an hour from the studio, especially when it's something fairly big - fires, car accidents, shootings and other crimes. Grabbing a camera and dashing off to get decent video is what I live for. I know I can write, I have a fair handle on producing a newscast I think, but getting behind a camera, finding the angle, putting it all together, is a technical and artistic accomplishment which satisfies me.
As I said, once I returned, the food was mostly eaten, the newsroom was starting to meet for the daily routine, and the work was still there to finish for me. I managed to put together a good video, and left it in good hands. Turning around the office as I grabbed my stuff to go, I saw no sign of the departing anchor.
Things were left unsaid; it probably should bother me, but I really am not losing sleep over it. I do wish her the best as she returns home, and hold no ill will towards her. I learned a lot early on working with her, so I am grateful for that.
But I didn't get to say goodbye.
So there it is... goodbye. It's all the closure I need at this point; there is no need to dwell on the past, this is the news business after all. Time to look forward to hunting down the next story, and working with the new morning anchor.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Not Necessarily the News
Growing up, there was a comedy show on HBO which spawned a generation of news hounds and rumor hunters - Not Necessarily the News. In recent years Comedy Central has The Daily Show and the Colbert Report, which provide a humorous - and yet thought provoking - look at current events.
So this is my version of the NNS trend. A place to comment on happenings and events - whether near home and work, or noteworthy national and global news. The opinions will always be my own, or those of the authors who post articles and comments. I may not necessarily share those views personally, but will try to provide the same thought-provoking information for the reader to make their own judgments.
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