Back after a short absence -- here's what's been going through my head:

Miss World Violence: I do not understand Islam, at least the way it is practiced by some Muslims. Although the Nigerian goverment claims authority, according to what I've read (and I'm absolutely NO authority on anything relating to Islam), issuing fatwa isn't part of their job description. It has made me desire to read the Qu'ran, which I have just ordered.

This is where your educational testing dollars go. Executive overpayment hits educational "non-profit."

Okay, I'm scared when I agree with Microsoft. But in this case, as it turns out, they agree with me. I've been saying for a while now (and posting on my favorite message boards) that music distribution must use the file-sharing model, ideally with some pay component (if musicians don't get paid, they will still create music, but they won't be able to afford to make the kinds of music we've come to expect, at least in pop-land). Thanks to the MSFT folks for doing some deeper research on the topic than I was able and willing to do. The RIAA can keep fighting this battle, but evidence is building that they will ultimately fail.

Ah, the perils of being honest! Just one more reason I can't work in any position that requires me to comment publicly on the performance of elected officials.