current events archives
Jun
6
2008
triple crown
Yesterday I worked on a graphic about another kind of horse race: the Triple Crown. Big Brown has a shot at winning this weekend's Belmont Stakes, which would make him the 12th horse to win the Triple Crown (meaning,...
Yesterday I worked on a graphic about another kind of horse race: the Triple Crown. Big Brown has a shot at winning this weekend's Belmont Stakes, which would make him the 12th horse to win the Triple Crown (meaning,...
Mar
20
2008
march madness
There's just an hour left to submit your NCAA men's basketball tournament predictions in post.com's Tourney Tracker game. Here's my bracket, with picks made according to who has the best uniform. (Granted, some of the decisions were influenced by just...
There's just an hour left to submit your NCAA men's basketball tournament predictions in post.com's Tourney Tracker game. Here's my bracket, with picks made according to who has the best uniform. (Granted, some of the decisions were influenced by just...
Nov
15
2006
calm after the storm
Was the election really a whole week ago? The three weeks leading up to the election -- and the week before in particular -- my work life revolved around the elections, and my personal mantra was a countdown to Election...
Was the election really a whole week ago? The three weeks leading up to the election -- and the week before in particular -- my work life revolved around the elections, and my personal mantra was a countdown to Election...
Oct
17
2006
unexpected ... and yet not
We had Monday Night Football on last night because the Chicago Bears (Rob's team) were playing the Arizona Cardinals (nominally my hometown team). I'm not a huge football fan, but even I know that a) the Bears have a phenomenal...
We had Monday Night Football on last night because the Chicago Bears (Rob's team) were playing the Arizona Cardinals (nominally my hometown team). I'm not a huge football fan, but even I know that a) the Bears have a phenomenal...
Sep
12
2006
stunned speechless
This morning, I came across this home video some New Yorkers made of the Sept. 11, 2001, attack on the World Trade Center from the window of their apartment, just blocks from the site of the attack. It's pretty raw,...
This morning, I came across this home video some New Yorkers made of the Sept. 11, 2001, attack on the World Trade Center from the window of their apartment, just blocks from the site of the attack. It's pretty raw,...
Aug
11
2006
a matter of timing
It's funny how a single event can change how a given thing is perceived. Take, for instance, today's London terror arrests and the travel restrictions that have been imposed as a result. Before all the excitement, that Sierra Mist soda...
It's funny how a single event can change how a given thing is perceived. Take, for instance, today's London terror arrests and the travel restrictions that have been imposed as a result. Before all the excitement, that Sierra Mist soda...
Aug
10
2006
holy crap
I woke up this morning to four breaking news text messages from CNN.com and this big story: British authorities said today they had disrupted a "major terrorist plot" to blow up passenger flights between the United Kingdom and the United...
I woke up this morning to four breaking news text messages from CNN.com and this big story: British authorities said today they had disrupted a "major terrorist plot" to blow up passenger flights between the United Kingdom and the United...
Jul
25
2006
mideast mad libs
I meant to post this last week but didn't get around to it: In its July 17 broadcast, The Daily Show offered a take on Middle East reporting that was sort of funny, in a tragic kind of way... Samantha...
I meant to post this last week but didn't get around to it: In its July 17 broadcast, The Daily Show offered a take on Middle East reporting that was sort of funny, in a tragic kind of way... Samantha...
Jul
18
2006
following the conflict
This afternoon, we launched an interactive map/multimedia feature on washingtonpost.com that takes a different approach to telling the story of what's going on right now in Israel and Lebanon. The map highlights the day's flashpoints and summarizes key developments (with...
This afternoon, we launched an interactive map/multimedia feature on washingtonpost.com that takes a different approach to telling the story of what's going on right now in Israel and Lebanon. The map highlights the day's flashpoints and summarizes key developments (with...
Jul
10
2006
pourquoi?
Rob, Dari and I got together yesterday afternoon to watch the World Cup finals. We were rooting for France to win over Italy, largely out of distaste for the Italian team's propensity to dive and generally act like drama queens...
Rob, Dari and I got together yesterday afternoon to watch the World Cup finals. We were rooting for France to win over Italy, largely out of distaste for the Italian team's propensity to dive and generally act like drama queens...
Jun
15
2006
soccer brand
German designer Erik Spiekermann doesn't have very many nice things to say about the branding for this year's World Cup. First, there are too many messages. The original brief was: we've got to fit Germany in there, then 2006, then...
German designer Erik Spiekermann doesn't have very many nice things to say about the branding for this year's World Cup. First, there are too many messages. The original brief was: we've got to fit Germany in there, then 2006, then...
Jun
12
2006
are you ready for some fútbol?
Most of my week last week was spent working on our new World Cup section, which launched on Wednesday. The section includes tons of reporting from the paper, short dispatches from Germany via a blog, audio updates from the reporters,...
Most of my week last week was spent working on our new World Cup section, which launched on Wednesday. The section includes tons of reporting from the paper, short dispatches from Germany via a blog, audio updates from the reporters,...
Apr
14
2006
faces of the fallen
"Faces of the Fallen," an ongoing feature at washingtonpost.com which lists all the soldiers who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan, relaunched yesterday afternoon. It's a sobering look at some of the war's human toll -- 2,574 U.S. soldiers killed...
"Faces of the Fallen," an ongoing feature at washingtonpost.com which lists all the soldiers who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan, relaunched yesterday afternoon. It's a sobering look at some of the war's human toll -- 2,574 U.S. soldiers killed...
Apr
1
2006
go bruins ... er ... mason
A couple weeks ago, I never could have known that my haphazard March Madness picks might actually get me somewhere. In one tournament "discussion" I entered using these same picks, I stand a shot of winning if UCLA takes the...
A couple weeks ago, I never could have known that my haphazard March Madness picks might actually get me somewhere. In one tournament "discussion" I entered using these same picks, I stand a shot of winning if UCLA takes the...
Mar
19
2006
in their own words
A multimedia piece I've been working on went live tonight, for the 3rd anniversary of the war in Iraq. "In Their Own Words" features personal accounts from Iraq veterans. I did the overall page design and built the module that...
A multimedia piece I've been working on went live tonight, for the 3rd anniversary of the war in Iraq. "In Their Own Words" features personal accounts from Iraq veterans. I did the overall page design and built the module that...
Jan
4
2006
out of date
One of my morning e-mails is a daily digest of top headlines from the New York Times. I didn't notice until this morning that while the e-mail is sent around 6 a.m., the information in it is compiled around 2...
One of my morning e-mails is a daily digest of top headlines from the New York Times. I didn't notice until this morning that while the e-mail is sent around 6 a.m., the information in it is compiled around 2...
Nov
8
2005
focus on bird flu
One of my recent projects went live yesterday: A Flash-based map of countries affected by bird flu (you can show/hide layers showing countries with bird cases and human cases, and avian migratory routes), with tables showing human cases and a...
One of my recent projects went live yesterday: A Flash-based map of countries affected by bird flu (you can show/hide layers showing countries with bird cases and human cases, and avian migratory routes), with tables showing human cases and a...
Sep
25
2005
'bob' no more
The home field of the Arizona Diamondbacks is no longer Bank One Ballpark. JP Morgan Chase's recent acquisition of Bank One necessitated a name change, as Bank One is being absorbed into the Chase fold. The ballpark's new name: Chase...
The home field of the Arizona Diamondbacks is no longer Bank One Ballpark. JP Morgan Chase's recent acquisition of Bank One necessitated a name change, as Bank One is being absorbed into the Chase fold. The ballpark's new name: Chase...
Sep
23
2005
theme song
I hate getting songs stuck in my head -- particularly songs that correspond to current events because the more I work on graphics related a given event, the more stubbornly that song refuses to disappear. Three weeks ago, the tune...
I hate getting songs stuck in my head -- particularly songs that correspond to current events because the more I work on graphics related a given event, the more stubbornly that song refuses to disappear. Three weeks ago, the tune...
Sep
22
2005
mapping new orleans
Rob's volleyball friend Brody, a cartographer, is off on an intriguing adventure: He's flying out to New Orleans to make maps. He's set up a blog to chronicle his trip. You all have probably heard the news, and if not,...
Rob's volleyball friend Brody, a cartographer, is off on an intriguing adventure: He's flying out to New Orleans to make maps. He's set up a blog to chronicle his trip. You all have probably heard the news, and if not,...
Sep
13
2005
quote of the day: whoops
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power explains how the blackout occurred: A spokeswoman for the utility said workers at a receiving station mistakenly cut one line and then hooked up the wrong wires, causing a...
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power explains how the blackout occurred: A spokeswoman for the utility said workers at a receiving station mistakenly cut one line and then hooked up the wrong wires, causing a...
Aug
30
2005
window of humor
Amid all the sobering news of Hurricane Katrina's aftermath, there are a few glimmers of humor, such as this weatherman's hissy fit on CNN. (Thanks to Nelson for the link.)...
Amid all the sobering news of Hurricane Katrina's aftermath, there are a few glimmers of humor, such as this weatherman's hissy fit on CNN. (Thanks to Nelson for the link.)...
Aug
29
2005
hurricane watching
It took a while to get going, but the major news outlets finally jumped on the hurricane apocalypse bandwagon around midday yesterday. Admittedly, even I hadn't paid too much attention to Katrina and the potential devastation it might cause...
It took a while to get going, but the major news outlets finally jumped on the hurricane apocalypse bandwagon around midday yesterday. Admittedly, even I hadn't paid too much attention to Katrina and the potential devastation it might cause...
Jun
14
2005
the verdict
Gathered around a small TV tuned to CNN, we watched the Michael Jackson verdict come in this afternoon. Not guilty on all counts. But plenty of damage has still been done to Jackson's public image. Columnist Tina Brown just about...
Gathered around a small TV tuned to CNN, we watched the Michael Jackson verdict come in this afternoon. Not guilty on all counts. But plenty of damage has still been done to Jackson's public image. Columnist Tina Brown just about...
Apr
18
2005
election
Big in the news today: The beginning of the papal conclave, in which all the cardinals (under 80 years old) sequester themselves inside the Sistine Chapel to vote on who becomes the next pope of the Roman Catholic church. Last...
Big in the news today: The beginning of the papal conclave, in which all the cardinals (under 80 years old) sequester themselves inside the Sistine Chapel to vote on who becomes the next pope of the Roman Catholic church. Last...
Apr
8
2005
sweet sistine
March Madness has given way to Popapalooza 2005. Use these brackets to follow the path to the "Flagellent Four" and the final showdown to see who will be the next Pope. Someone's going to hell for this for sure ......
March Madness has given way to Popapalooza 2005. Use these brackets to follow the path to the "Flagellent Four" and the final showdown to see who will be the next Pope. Someone's going to hell for this for sure ......
Feb
20
2005
gonzo
"I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence or insanity to anyone ... but they've always worked for me." Hunter S. Thompson is dead. Thompson was a wildly eccentric writer with a gift for vividly colorful storytelling, and is credited as...
"I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence or insanity to anyone ... but they've always worked for me." Hunter S. Thompson is dead. Thompson was a wildly eccentric writer with a gift for vividly colorful storytelling, and is credited as...
Feb
10
2005
princess consort
One of the big stories of the day is the announcement that Britain's Prince Charles is going to marry longtime girlfriend Camilla Parker Bowles in April. (BBC News: "Prince Charles to marry Camilla" - 02/10/05) It also was quickly announced...
One of the big stories of the day is the announcement that Britain's Prince Charles is going to marry longtime girlfriend Camilla Parker Bowles in April. (BBC News: "Prince Charles to marry Camilla" - 02/10/05) It also was quickly announced...
Feb
3
2005
mixed messages
I'm on Merriam-Webster's "word of the day" e-mail list, and sometimes I wonder if there's some kind of connection or meaning implied between the word sent out and current events. Take today, for example: The day after the president's State...
I'm on Merriam-Webster's "word of the day" e-mail list, and sometimes I wonder if there's some kind of connection or meaning implied between the word sent out and current events. Take today, for example: The day after the president's State...
Jan
23
2005
back from the dead
In addition to his freakishly defined abs, fitness infomercial king John Basedow apparently also has the amazing ability to come back from the dead. Rumors circulated that he'd met his end after a press release was circulated in early January...
In addition to his freakishly defined abs, fitness infomercial king John Basedow apparently also has the amazing ability to come back from the dead. Rumors circulated that he'd met his end after a press release was circulated in early January...
Jan
14
2005
tsunami aid
$10 million here. $100 million there. A story in today's Washington Post cautions that all the news of various tsunami aid pledges by countries around the world may be a bit misleading. ("Cash Often Fails to Match Aid Pledges "...
$10 million here. $100 million there. A story in today's Washington Post cautions that all the news of various tsunami aid pledges by countries around the world may be a bit misleading. ("Cash Often Fails to Match Aid Pledges "...
Dec
28
2004
tsunami
I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around the recent horrible tragedy in southeast Asia, where, on the coasts, tens of thousands of people (the body count keeps rising) died as a result of tidal waves after a massive...
I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around the recent horrible tragedy in southeast Asia, where, on the coasts, tens of thousands of people (the body count keeps rising) died as a result of tidal waves after a massive...
Dec
27
2004
best of 2004
It's time again for those roundups of events and "bests" of the the past year... Arts & Culture New York Times: "Culture: Best of 2004"Salon.com: "When Comedy Drew Blood" Movies New York Times: "The Best Movies of 2004"Roger Ebert, Chicago...
It's time again for those roundups of events and "bests" of the the past year... Arts & Culture New York Times: "Culture: Best of 2004"Salon.com: "When Comedy Drew Blood" Movies New York Times: "The Best Movies of 2004"Roger Ebert, Chicago...
Dec
20
2004
shiver shiver, brrr brrr
Outside, the sky is clear and vibrantly blue, and it looks like a beautiful day. Only the fast walking pace and bundled layers of warmth of the pedestrians downstairs gives a hint to the reality of what it's like outside:...
Outside, the sky is clear and vibrantly blue, and it looks like a beautiful day. Only the fast walking pace and bundled layers of warmth of the pedestrians downstairs gives a hint to the reality of what it's like outside:...
Dec
14
2004
seasonal advice
At the end of a severe weather alert yesterday (posted on weather.com), meteorologists at the National Weather Service offered a bit of mother-like advice: ALTHOUGH THESE CONDITIONS ARE NOT UNUSUAL FOR DECEMBER... SINCE THIS WILL BE THE FIRST COLD SNAP...
At the end of a severe weather alert yesterday (posted on weather.com), meteorologists at the National Weather Service offered a bit of mother-like advice: ALTHOUGH THESE CONDITIONS ARE NOT UNUSUAL FOR DECEMBER... SINCE THIS WILL BE THE FIRST COLD SNAP...
Oct
29
2004
Oct
2
2004
there's an election going on?
This is an incredibly important, hotly contested election year. But around here, unless you follow the major news outlets, you might not know it. I was actually a little shocked when I heard political radio advertisements in Seattle and Denver...
This is an incredibly important, hotly contested election year. But around here, unless you follow the major news outlets, you might not know it. I was actually a little shocked when I heard political radio advertisements in Seattle and Denver...
Aug
26
2004
follow the story
I noticed this morning that washingtonpost.com has started doing something kinda nifty with its RSS feeds: In addition to offering feeds based on its core coverage areas (national, metro, technology, etc.), they've also started offering feeds related to specific stories...
I noticed this morning that washingtonpost.com has started doing something kinda nifty with its RSS feeds: In addition to offering feeds based on its core coverage areas (national, metro, technology, etc.), they've also started offering feeds related to specific stories...
Aug
22
2004
stolen scream
Various news agencies are reporting that, in a fairly ballsy move, two armed men stormed a Norwegian art gallery during operating hours and, in front of frightened museum-goers, forced museum employees to hand over two Edvard Munch paintings, including "The...
Various news agencies are reporting that, in a fairly ballsy move, two armed men stormed a Norwegian art gallery during operating hours and, in front of frightened museum-goers, forced museum employees to hand over two Edvard Munch paintings, including "The...
Aug
17
2004
seen: hunker down
"Hunker Down" Bingo A friend of mine here in St. Pete ... told me that during the Hurricane evacuations Friday, she and her son played "hunker down bingo." They waited until somebody on TV said the words "hunker down" then...
"Hunker Down" Bingo A friend of mine here in St. Pete ... told me that during the Hurricane evacuations Friday, she and her son played "hunker down bingo." They waited until somebody on TV said the words "hunker down" then...
Aug
16
2004
seen: sports priorities
Rob spotted this exchange in a recent Washington Post online chat with sports columnist Michael Wilbon: Reston VA: Michael, Are you so completely engorged in the Olympics that you’ve not heard about the Redskins, it appears they have much work...
Rob spotted this exchange in a recent Washington Post online chat with sports columnist Michael Wilbon: Reston VA: Michael, Are you so completely engorged in the Olympics that you’ve not heard about the Redskins, it appears they have much work...
Jul
27
2004
blogging through
For the Democratic National Convention this week in Boston, DC political magazine National Journal is offering both a daily convention newspaper and a convention weblog updated throughout the event. (A friend of mine is posting as "The Editors.") The blog...
For the Democratic National Convention this week in Boston, DC political magazine National Journal is offering both a daily convention newspaper and a convention weblog updated throughout the event. (A friend of mine is posting as "The Editors.") The blog...
Jul
16
2004
martha goes to jail
Domestic diva Martha Stewart was sentenced this morning to five months in prison and five months of home confinement and fined $30,000 for lying to federal investigators about a stock trade. ("Martha Stewart Sentenced to 5 Months in Prison" -...
Domestic diva Martha Stewart was sentenced this morning to five months in prison and five months of home confinement and fined $30,000 for lying to federal investigators about a stock trade. ("Martha Stewart Sentenced to 5 Months in Prison" -...
Jun
17
2004
delegation
I've been fascinated -- and more than a little concerned -- by the most recent reports issued by the 9/11 Commission. But aside from the drama and terror of that day, not to mention all the accounts of miscommunication and...
I've been fascinated -- and more than a little concerned -- by the most recent reports issued by the 9/11 Commission. But aside from the drama and terror of that day, not to mention all the accounts of miscommunication and...
Jun
11
2004
prying eyes
Instead of going into town today, I watched Ronald Reagan's funeral from work via a webfeed from C-SPAN. At the time I tuned in, the tourists and well-wishers had been cleared from the Rotunda. While solidiers in dress uniform assembled...
Instead of going into town today, I watched Ronald Reagan's funeral from work via a webfeed from C-SPAN. At the time I tuned in, the tourists and well-wishers had been cleared from the Rotunda. While solidiers in dress uniform assembled...
Jun
10
2004
old, sweet song
AP reports that music legend Ray Charles died today, at the age of 73. It's a sad day. ("Musician Ray Charles Dies at 73" - 06/10/04) In public appearances, Charles always seemed like an upbeat, good-spirited guy, and I loved...
AP reports that music legend Ray Charles died today, at the age of 73. It's a sad day. ("Musician Ray Charles Dies at 73" - 06/10/04) In public appearances, Charles always seemed like an upbeat, good-spirited guy, and I loved...
reaganite
Almost a week later, I'm still rather ambivalent about the death of former President Ronald Reagan. I understand to some degree, on an intellectual level, the significance of his passing and what his presidency and "public face" has represented to...
Almost a week later, I'm still rather ambivalent about the death of former President Ronald Reagan. I understand to some degree, on an intellectual level, the significance of his passing and what his presidency and "public face" has represented to...
Jun
3
2004
directed out of the picture
This morning brought the breaking news that CIA Director George Tenet has submitted his resignation and will be leaving for "personal reasons" at end of July. (AP: "CIA Director Tenet Resigns" - 06/03/04) (I learned about the resignation from my...
This morning brought the breaking news that CIA Director George Tenet has submitted his resignation and will be leaving for "personal reasons" at end of July. (AP: "CIA Director Tenet Resigns" - 06/03/04) (I learned about the resignation from my...
Apr
23
2004
war and loss
Pat Tillman, Army Ranger and former Arizona Cardinals safety, died recently in Afghanistan. Tillman, also an Arizona State alum, left the Cardinals in 2002 to join the Army with his younger brother. The Arizona Republic: "Pat Tillman killed in Afghanistan"...
Pat Tillman, Army Ranger and former Arizona Cardinals safety, died recently in Afghanistan. Tillman, also an Arizona State alum, left the Cardinals in 2002 to join the Army with his younger brother. The Arizona Republic: "Pat Tillman killed in Afghanistan"...
Mar
8
2004
an ending
The sad story of Spalding Gray came to a close this weekend. The body of the actor/playwright was discovered in New York City's East River over the weekend. He was last seen Jan. 10, and was feared to have committed...
The sad story of Spalding Gray came to a close this weekend. The body of the actor/playwright was discovered in New York City's East River over the weekend. He was last seen Jan. 10, and was feared to have committed...
Mar
1
2004
bill wuz robbed
I didn't get to watch the Oscars last night because I was on my way back from New York (but I TiVo'ed it!). However, walking from the bus drop-off spot at McPherson Square to my car at GW's University Garage...
I didn't get to watch the Oscars last night because I was on my way back from New York (but I TiVo'ed it!). However, walking from the bus drop-off spot at McPherson Square to my car at GW's University Garage...
Feb
2
2004
society of the spectacle
For anyone who was living under a rock and missed all the hype and hoo-ra-ra, yesterday was Super Bowl Sunday. Everybody else has been talking about it. I might as well throw my two cents in, a day or so...
For anyone who was living under a rock and missed all the hype and hoo-ra-ra, yesterday was Super Bowl Sunday. Everybody else has been talking about it. I might as well throw my two cents in, a day or so...
Jan
24
2004
in passing
Yesterday marked another sad passing of a trademark children's television icon. Bob Keeshan, perhaps better known as "Captain Kangaroo," died yesterday at the age of 76 after a long illness. The television program ran for 30 years, from 1955 to...
Yesterday marked another sad passing of a trademark children's television icon. Bob Keeshan, perhaps better known as "Captain Kangaroo," died yesterday at the age of 76 after a long illness. The television program ran for 30 years, from 1955 to...
Jan
22
2004
navel-gazing
After Howard Dean's third-place showing in the Iowa caucus, pundits are reconsidering their zeal for the candidate and his unconventional means of drumming up support. Salon's Farhad Manjoo equates it with the dot-com bust: Dean was propelled upward by insanely...
After Howard Dean's third-place showing in the Iowa caucus, pundits are reconsidering their zeal for the candidate and his unconventional means of drumming up support. Salon's Farhad Manjoo equates it with the dot-com bust: Dean was propelled upward by insanely...
Jan
16
2004
focus group
This was forwarded to the CCT listserv this morning. Could be fun... WANT TO BE ON NATIONAL TELEVISION? Dear interested focus group members: We are now doing a special STATE OF THE UNION SHOW on Tuesday, January 20th that 8:30pm...
This was forwarded to the CCT listserv this morning. Could be fun... WANT TO BE ON NATIONAL TELEVISION? Dear interested focus group members: We are now doing a special STATE OF THE UNION SHOW on Tuesday, January 20th that 8:30pm...
Dec
26
2003
politics and the internet
Several news outlets have interesting stories about the ever-increasing role of the Internet in the political campaign process. Wired: "How the Internet Invented Howard Dean" (Jan. 2004) The biggest news of the political season has been the tale of this...
Several news outlets have interesting stories about the ever-increasing role of the Internet in the political campaign process. Wired: "How the Internet Invented Howard Dean" (Jan. 2004) The biggest news of the political season has been the tale of this...
Dec
19
2003
long, hard slog
A Washington Post op-ed piece today mentions that, instead of offering separate medals for service in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Pengaton is instead offering a single medal to soldiers who have served in one or both wars. ("Military Medals and...
A Washington Post op-ed piece today mentions that, instead of offering separate medals for service in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Pengaton is instead offering a single medal to soldiers who have served in one or both wars. ("Military Medals and...
Dec
12
2003
quote of the day: international law
"International law? I better call my lawyer. I don't know what you're talking about, about international law." - President George W. Bush, when told that Germany's chancellor suggested that barring non-coalition countries from Iraq reconstruction contracts violates international law. (Slate's...
"International law? I better call my lawyer. I don't know what you're talking about, about international law." - President George W. Bush, when told that Germany's chancellor suggested that barring non-coalition countries from Iraq reconstruction contracts violates international law. (Slate's...
Nov
7
2003
like layers of an onion
It seems like the Jessica Lynch story gets reworked with each telling. Now even Lynch is criticizing the sensationalized early military version of her capture and rescue. (Associated Press: "Lynch: Military manipulated story" - 11/07/03) The 20-year-old private told ABC’s...
It seems like the Jessica Lynch story gets reworked with each telling. Now even Lynch is criticizing the sensationalized early military version of her capture and rescue. (Associated Press: "Lynch: Military manipulated story" - 11/07/03) The 20-year-old private told ABC’s...
Oct
20
2003
my humvee for a whopper
The first Burger King in Iraq has opened at the Baghdad airport, and U.S. servicemembers from hundreds of miles around are apparently coming in droves for some "good 'ol American" fast food, the Washington Post reports. ("U.S. Troops Order Comfort,...
The first Burger King in Iraq has opened at the Baghdad airport, and U.S. servicemembers from hundreds of miles around are apparently coming in droves for some "good 'ol American" fast food, the Washington Post reports. ("U.S. Troops Order Comfort,...
Sep
14
2003
double down
The end of this week brought a couple of notable entertainment deaths, those of actor John Ritter (on Thursday) and Johnny Cash (on Friday). (If you believe in the "rule of threes" when it comes to high-profile deaths, the trifecta...
The end of this week brought a couple of notable entertainment deaths, those of actor John Ritter (on Thursday) and Johnny Cash (on Friday). (If you believe in the "rule of threes" when it comes to high-profile deaths, the trifecta...
Aug
13
2003
wp strategy in iraq
This week's New York Observer has an interesting piece about the strategy the Washington Post is using to cover the war in Iraq, specifically the hunt for "weapons of mass destruction" and reconstruction. ("Washington Post Wins New Yorkers With Bradlee...
This week's New York Observer has an interesting piece about the strategy the Washington Post is using to cover the war in Iraq, specifically the hunt for "weapons of mass destruction" and reconstruction. ("Washington Post Wins New Yorkers With Bradlee...
Aug
12
2003
community service
Today's Washington Post has a story about a new effort underway to commemorate September 11, 2001, through a national, annual day of community service. ("Groups Urge Day of Service to Mark Sept. 11" - 08/12/03) The organizing group, One Day's...
Today's Washington Post has a story about a new effort underway to commemorate September 11, 2001, through a national, annual day of community service. ("Groups Urge Day of Service to Mark Sept. 11" - 08/12/03) The organizing group, One Day's...
Jul
25
2003
art imitates life imitates...
This week's edition of The Onion has a story that's almost too true-to-life. Taking the Maryland state government's recent financial woes, the satirical newspaper reports that the state decides to shut down, rather than sell out or run itself further...
This week's edition of The Onion has a story that's almost too true-to-life. Taking the Maryland state government's recent financial woes, the satirical newspaper reports that the state decides to shut down, rather than sell out or run itself further...
Jul
22
2003
desperation
Rumor has it that Saddam Hussein's son Uday and Qusay were killed today in a firefight with U.S. military in Iraq. (NYT: "U.S. Commander Confirms Search for 2 Top Targets Is Over" - 07/22/03) The paranoid in me is worried...
Rumor has it that Saddam Hussein's son Uday and Qusay were killed today in a firefight with U.S. military in Iraq. (NYT: "U.S. Commander Confirms Search for 2 Top Targets Is Over" - 07/22/03) The paranoid in me is worried...
Jul
16
2003
googling wmd
This has been already passed around/discussed to death, but I'm posting about it here anyway because it amuses me. If you go to Google, type "weapons of mass destruction," and click on the "I'm Feeling Lucky" button underneath, you'll be...
This has been already passed around/discussed to death, but I'm posting about it here anyway because it amuses me. If you go to Google, type "weapons of mass destruction," and click on the "I'm Feeling Lucky" button underneath, you'll be...
Jun
27
2003
he's back!
Mohammed Saeed al-Sahhaf, former Information Minister for the Iraqi government, apparently emerged from the war unscathed. The Associated Press reports that Sahhaf, still in Iraq, gave a televised interview to an Arab television network. (azcentral.com: "Iraqi info minister is alive...
Mohammed Saeed al-Sahhaf, former Information Minister for the Iraqi government, apparently emerged from the war unscathed. The Associated Press reports that Sahhaf, still in Iraq, gave a televised interview to an Arab television network. (azcentral.com: "Iraqi info minister is alive...
Jun
25
2003
'aspen' fire
azcentral.com/The Arizona Republic posted an animated Flash map that I built showing the growth of the "Aspen" fire northeast of Tucson. I will continue to update it as the Fire Service posts updated maps to their site. The "Aspen" fire...
azcentral.com/The Arizona Republic posted an animated Flash map that I built showing the growth of the "Aspen" fire northeast of Tucson. I will continue to update it as the Fire Service posts updated maps to their site. The "Aspen" fire...
Jun
24
2003
misinformed
Respondents to a recent Washington Post/ABC poll were alarmingly misinformed when it came to the question of whether or not Iraq used chemical/bioweapons in the recent war. ("Poll: Majority Backs Use of Force in Iran" - 06/24/03) The survey also...
Respondents to a recent Washington Post/ABC poll were alarmingly misinformed when it came to the question of whether or not Iraq used chemical/bioweapons in the recent war. ("Poll: Majority Backs Use of Force in Iran" - 06/24/03) The survey also...
Jun
19
2003
crowd control
Today's New York Times has a disturbing factoid about U.S. troops in Iraq: Although witnesses said American forces demonstrated considerable restraint throughout a two-and-a-half-hour standoff, the incident underscored their lack of crowd-control equipment. Lt. Col. Richard Douglass, a First Armored...
Today's New York Times has a disturbing factoid about U.S. troops in Iraq: Although witnesses said American forces demonstrated considerable restraint throughout a two-and-a-half-hour standoff, the incident underscored their lack of crowd-control equipment. Lt. Col. Richard Douglass, a First Armored...
Jun
10
2003
alert fatigue
The next time the Department of Homeland Security raises the terrorism alert level to Orange, Arizona may not follow suit. The Arizona Republic reports that that state government may treat the alert more as a warning or advisory than a...
The next time the Department of Homeland Security raises the terrorism alert level to Orange, Arizona may not follow suit. The Arizona Republic reports that that state government may treat the alert more as a warning or advisory than a...
May
23
2003
on alert ... sorta
Due to recent violence (bombings, armed attacks ... stuff like that) on U.S. allies and interests overseas, we've been bumped back up to Orange Alert. But somehow the situation doesn't seem as dire or freaky as in previous Orange Alert...
Due to recent violence (bombings, armed attacks ... stuff like that) on U.S. allies and interests overseas, we've been bumped back up to Orange Alert. But somehow the situation doesn't seem as dire or freaky as in previous Orange Alert...
May
9
2003
iraq and 9/11
A federal judge in NYC this week ruled that Iraq was at least partially responsible for the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. (USA Today: "Lawsuit ruling finds Iraq partly responsible for 9/11" - 05/07/03) The Iraq/al-Qaida connection was the weakest...
A federal judge in NYC this week ruled that Iraq was at least partially responsible for the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. (USA Today: "Lawsuit ruling finds Iraq partly responsible for 9/11" - 05/07/03) The Iraq/al-Qaida connection was the weakest...
Apr
18
2003
'principle' over need?
According to an editorial in Wednesday's Washington Post, the military has been letting go of a number of Arabic-speaking linguists (as well as specialists in other languages) because of their homosexuality, this despite the government's intense demand for Arabic speakers....
According to an editorial in Wednesday's Washington Post, the military has been letting go of a number of Arabic-speaking linguists (as well as specialists in other languages) because of their homosexuality, this despite the government's intense demand for Arabic speakers....
Apr
17
2003
war is over
According to Washington Post media critic Howard Kurtz, the surest sign that the war in Iraq is over isn't any kind of official proclamation from the White House or Pentagon. It's media coverage. The war officially ended yesterday, by the...
According to Washington Post media critic Howard Kurtz, the surest sign that the war in Iraq is over isn't any kind of official proclamation from the White House or Pentagon. It's media coverage. The war officially ended yesterday, by the...
Apr
8
2003
that virus in china
BBC News reports a new theory about how the SARS virus spread throughout a Hong Kong apartment building: It was carried by cockroaches through the sewer system. ("Sars 'spread by cockroaches'" - 04/08/03) Meanwhile, Slate's John Cohen talks about the...
BBC News reports a new theory about how the SARS virus spread throughout a Hong Kong apartment building: It was carried by cockroaches through the sewer system. ("Sars 'spread by cockroaches'" - 04/08/03) Meanwhile, Slate's John Cohen talks about the...
Mar
31
2003
war notes
A few links and notes related to the war in Iraq... Chrisian Lowe of The Weekly Standard has a good explainer about why we've lost so many helicopters (and helicopter crews) so far in Iraq: Basically, helicopters are difficult to...
A few links and notes related to the war in Iraq... Chrisian Lowe of The Weekly Standard has a good explainer about why we've lost so many helicopters (and helicopter crews) so far in Iraq: Basically, helicopters are difficult to...
the military's version of the war
I recently signed up for a few e-mail newsletters from the Department of Defense. Among these was the Armed Forces Press Service. A recent story that came across the wire: "With Iraqi Regime Going Down the Tubes, Where's Saddam?" (03/30/03)....
I recently signed up for a few e-mail newsletters from the Department of Defense. Among these was the Armed Forces Press Service. A recent story that came across the wire: "With Iraqi Regime Going Down the Tubes, Where's Saddam?" (03/30/03)....
Mar
30
2003
green day
Hank Stuever of the Washington Post (can you tell I've been reading WP this morning?) has a fun essay in today's edition about what would happen if the terror alert actually dipped down to green. ("How Green Was Our Warning"...
Hank Stuever of the Washington Post (can you tell I've been reading WP this morning?) has a fun essay in today's edition about what would happen if the terror alert actually dipped down to green. ("How Green Was Our Warning"...
prisoners of war
The Washington Post has a riveting story today about the experiences of some American prisoners of war during the first Gulf War. ("POW Redux" - 03/30/03) The mind can corner on rails, she says. Can cut on a dime. It...
The Washington Post has a riveting story today about the experiences of some American prisoners of war during the first Gulf War. ("POW Redux" - 03/30/03) The mind can corner on rails, she says. Can cut on a dime. It...
Mar
28
2003
live tv war
CNN just ran a field report about a Marine squad in Nasiriya who were trying to recover the bodies of fellow soldiers. A compelling story, to be true. But I wonder about the appropriateness of constant camera shots of covered...
CNN just ran a field report about a Marine squad in Nasiriya who were trying to recover the bodies of fellow soldiers. A compelling story, to be true. But I wonder about the appropriateness of constant camera shots of covered...
Mar
24
2003
a different cost of war
The U.S. is giving a number of our allies in the Iraq conflict added incentive to help out, in the form of financial assistance. Forbes has a list of funds the Bush administration proposes to allot to various countries involved...
The U.S. is giving a number of our allies in the Iraq conflict added incentive to help out, in the form of financial assistance. Forbes has a list of funds the Bush administration proposes to allot to various countries involved...
the real cost of war
My friend Danielle forwarded this to me over the weekend. It's interesting -- and staggering -- to consider the real cost of war. I got this info off of Patriots for Peace and Nonviolence.org. It is truly amazing to see...
My friend Danielle forwarded this to me over the weekend. It's interesting -- and staggering -- to consider the real cost of war. I got this info off of Patriots for Peace and Nonviolence.org. It is truly amazing to see...
a more "humane" war?
Talking heads, in the media and military alike, have been using words like "precision" and "surgical" when talking about military bomb and missile strikes. Our modern weapons of war are so advanced that they can hit their target without causing...
Talking heads, in the media and military alike, have been using words like "precision" and "surgical" when talking about military bomb and missile strikes. Our modern weapons of war are so advanced that they can hit their target without causing...
Mar
20
2003
no place like home
I talked to my dad last night over the phone, just before Bush's speech about the war having started. My dad, only half jokingly, tried to convince me to come home to Tucson for the rest of the semester, or...
I talked to my dad last night over the phone, just before Bush's speech about the war having started. My dad, only half jokingly, tried to convince me to come home to Tucson for the rest of the semester, or...
Mar
19
2003
it begins...
The war, it has begun. Let's hope it's as short and bloodless as possible. Edited 11:38 p.m. - "Operation Iraqi Freedom"??...
The war, it has begun. Let's hope it's as short and bloodless as possible. Edited 11:38 p.m. - "Operation Iraqi Freedom"??...
Mar
17
2003
legal basis for war
BBC News has a statement from the British attorney general, Lord Goldsmith, which spells out the legal basis for a war in Iraq. ("Attorney General's Iraq response" - 03/17/03) I'm posting the statement here, and have added links to the...
BBC News has a statement from the British attorney general, Lord Goldsmith, which spells out the legal basis for a war in Iraq. ("Attorney General's Iraq response" - 03/17/03) I'm posting the statement here, and have added links to the...
Mar
12
2003
cia recruits more spies?
Maybe that whole TIPS idea hasn't completely died. Slate's Today's Papers cites recent stories in the Washington Post: According to yesterday's Lloyd Grove column in the Post, the CIA has been dropping friendly postcards in neighbors' mailboxes: "Please report anything...
Maybe that whole TIPS idea hasn't completely died. Slate's Today's Papers cites recent stories in the Washington Post: According to yesterday's Lloyd Grove column in the Post, the CIA has been dropping friendly postcards in neighbors' mailboxes: "Please report anything...
Mar
11
2003
getting back at the french
CNN reports that two Republican congressmen have successfully campaigned to change the name of "French fries" and "French toast" offered at the House of Representatives' cafeterias to "freedom fries" and "freedom toast." ("House cafeterias change names for 'french fries' and...
CNN reports that two Republican congressmen have successfully campaigned to change the name of "French fries" and "French toast" offered at the House of Representatives' cafeterias to "freedom fries" and "freedom toast." ("House cafeterias change names for 'french fries' and...
Mar
7
2003
military propaganda
U.S. Central Command has posted copies of the leaflets they're dropping on Iraq, south of Baghdad, as well as transcripts of the messages they've been broadcasting over the radio (English translations). The messages seem to be targeted at Iraqi soldiers,...
U.S. Central Command has posted copies of the leaflets they're dropping on Iraq, south of Baghdad, as well as transcripts of the messages they've been broadcasting over the radio (English translations). The messages seem to be targeted at Iraqi soldiers,...
Feb
28
2003
yellow alert
Americans can now be just a little less freaked out. The Department of Homeland Security lowered the terror alert level to yellow, after three weeks at orange. (Washington Post: "Terror Index Is Lowered to Yellow" - 02/28/03) Comedy still seems...
Americans can now be just a little less freaked out. The Department of Homeland Security lowered the terror alert level to yellow, after three weeks at orange. (Washington Post: "Terror Index Is Lowered to Yellow" - 02/28/03) Comedy still seems...
Feb
27
2003
sad news
Fred Rogers, better known as children's television personality "Mister Rogers," died today of stomach cancer at the age of 74. ("Fred Rogers, Host of TV's 'Mister Rogers' Dies at 74" - 02/26/03) News accounts of his death no doubt will...
Fred Rogers, better known as children's television personality "Mister Rogers," died today of stomach cancer at the age of 74. ("Fred Rogers, Host of TV's 'Mister Rogers' Dies at 74" - 02/26/03) News accounts of his death no doubt will...
Feb
24
2003
the language of war
A goodly number of news media reports these days refer to an "impending war" against Iraq. An interesting article in the Chicago Tribune points out that the rampant use of this phrase could undermine the media's supposed objectivity, as well...
A goodly number of news media reports these days refer to an "impending war" against Iraq. An interesting article in the Chicago Tribune points out that the rampant use of this phrase could undermine the media's supposed objectivity, as well...
black humor
There are some brilliant sites parodying Ready.gov, the citizen education site from the Department of Homeland Security. This one has some great send-ups of the infographics in Ready.gov's "Be Informed" section. My favorite: If a chemical weapon follows you home,...
There are some brilliant sites parodying Ready.gov, the citizen education site from the Department of Homeland Security. This one has some great send-ups of the infographics in Ready.gov's "Be Informed" section. My favorite: If a chemical weapon follows you home,...
oh, beautiful irony
Slate's "Today's Papers" mentions this fantastic bit of irony: Last October, the ever-wise Onion (motto: "You are dumb") headlined, "BUSH ON ECONOMY: SADDAM MUST BE OVERTHROWN." A piece inside today's NYT announces, "KEY TO DOMESTIC AGENDA COULD BE VICTORY IN...
Slate's "Today's Papers" mentions this fantastic bit of irony: Last October, the ever-wise Onion (motto: "You are dumb") headlined, "BUSH ON ECONOMY: SADDAM MUST BE OVERTHROWN." A piece inside today's NYT announces, "KEY TO DOMESTIC AGENDA COULD BE VICTORY IN...
Feb
21
2003
who will replace saddam?
According to a story in today's Washington Post, an American civilian will take charge of Iraq after U.S. forces dismantle Saddam Hussein and his army, according to government post-war plans. ("Full U.S. Control Planned for Iraq" - 02/21/03) So how...
According to a story in today's Washington Post, an American civilian will take charge of Iraq after U.S. forces dismantle Saddam Hussein and his army, according to government post-war plans. ("Full U.S. Control Planned for Iraq" - 02/21/03) So how...
Feb
20
2003
probably not a nobel peace prize contender
Turkey recently asked the U.S. to up its compensation offer in exchange for Turkey's help in a war with Iraq. The New York Times reports that the administration is privately furious with the move, and is characteristically fuming about it...
Turkey recently asked the U.S. to up its compensation offer in exchange for Turkey's help in a war with Iraq. The New York Times reports that the administration is privately furious with the move, and is characteristically fuming about it...
Feb
17
2003
back to yellow alert?
Homeland Security director Tom Ridge suggested yesterday that the government might lower the terror alert level within the next couple days. (WP: "Terror Alert May Soon Be Lowered" - 02/17/03) Also of interest: Ridge also indicated the government is moving...
Homeland Security director Tom Ridge suggested yesterday that the government might lower the terror alert level within the next couple days. (WP: "Terror Alert May Soon Be Lowered" - 02/17/03) Also of interest: Ridge also indicated the government is moving...
Feb
16
2003
tit-for-tat
Maybe Fox News is a little too widely recognized for its conservative, pro-administration bent... Today's Washington Post reports that the Bush administration ordered the expulsion of the U.N. correspondent for the Iraqi state news agency, on the grounds that the...
Maybe Fox News is a little too widely recognized for its conservative, pro-administration bent... Today's Washington Post reports that the Bush administration ordered the expulsion of the U.N. correspondent for the Iraqi state news agency, on the grounds that the...
Feb
14
2003
not exactly a confidence-booster
ABCNews.com has a report that suggests that the recent terror level hike to orange was based in part on fabricated information given by an al-Qaida prisoner. ("Alert Partly Based on Lies" - 02/13/03) The informant described a detailed plan that...
ABCNews.com has a report that suggests that the recent terror level hike to orange was based in part on fabricated information given by an al-Qaida prisoner. ("Alert Partly Based on Lies" - 02/13/03) The informant described a detailed plan that...
Feb
12
2003
online scoops the mainstream press
E-Media Tidbits links to another interesting story this morning. In a column in The New York Times, Tom Kuntz makes the case that the online world broke the news of the space shuttle Columbia disaster perhaps 11 minutes before AP...
E-Media Tidbits links to another interesting story this morning. In a column in The New York Times, Tom Kuntz makes the case that the online world broke the news of the space shuttle Columbia disaster perhaps 11 minutes before AP...
Feb
11
2003
don't freak out. really.
The Washington Post and USA Today both front warnings from Homeland Security officials that citizens should stock up on emergency supplies and be prepared for a terrorist attack. (WP: "Terror Attack Steps Urged" - 02/11/03) Top federal officials yesterday issued...
The Washington Post and USA Today both front warnings from Homeland Security officials that citizens should stock up on emergency supplies and be prepared for a terrorist attack. (WP: "Terror Attack Steps Urged" - 02/11/03) Top federal officials yesterday issued...
Feb
10
2003
life imitates art?
From Wired: You're Busted, Dude Maybe getting busted for possession will wipe that smirk off the Dell Guy's face. Benjamin Curtis, the 22-year-old actor who plays Dell Computer's insufferable, idiotic pitchman, was arrested in lower Manhattan late Sunday after the...
From Wired: You're Busted, Dude Maybe getting busted for possession will wipe that smirk off the Dell Guy's face. Benjamin Curtis, the 22-year-old actor who plays Dell Computer's insufferable, idiotic pitchman, was arrested in lower Manhattan late Sunday after the...
Jan
29
2003
what's your social?
The United States supposedly doesn't have a national ID system. However, the social security number has become the defacto standard to identify and track individual citizens for everything from tax information to telephone bills -- and more. The omnipresent reliance...
The United States supposedly doesn't have a national ID system. However, the social security number has become the defacto standard to identify and track individual citizens for everything from tax information to telephone bills -- and more. The omnipresent reliance...
Jan
28
2003
state of the union
President Bush's State of the Union address airs tonight, beginning at 9 p.m. ET. The speech will air on the major networks / cable news channels. It can also be seen over the web via the White House site and...
President Bush's State of the Union address airs tonight, beginning at 9 p.m. ET. The speech will air on the major networks / cable news channels. It can also be seen over the web via the White House site and...
Jan
27
2003
super bowl ad-meter
USAToday.com is running an online survey of people's favorite Super Bowl ads, complete with video clips of each ad. Check it out here. (USA Today's 15th Annual Ad Meter - 01/27/03) Edited 1/28/03 ... Slate's Rob Walker has a chatty...
USAToday.com is running an online survey of people's favorite Super Bowl ads, complete with video clips of each ad. Check it out here. (USA Today's 15th Annual Ad Meter - 01/27/03) Edited 1/28/03 ... Slate's Rob Walker has a chatty...
Jan
26
2003
super bowl sunday
The Super Bowl just started ... Don't care much about football, but I'm hoping the commercials will be at least somewhat memorable this year. Nothing especially memorable so far... Edited: 6:48 p.m. ... Pepsi Twist commercial featuring the Osbournes /...
The Super Bowl just started ... Don't care much about football, but I'm hoping the commercials will be at least somewhat memorable this year. Nothing especially memorable so far... Edited: 6:48 p.m. ... Pepsi Twist commercial featuring the Osbournes /...
Jan
22
2003
'hardball' at georgetown
Chris Matthews's MSNBC show 'Hardball' is broadcasting tonight from Georgetown University. The theme of tonight's program is "The Road to War," and guest panelists include Peter Arnett (formerly of CNN), Bill Arkin (military analyst), and Gens. Barry McCaffrey and Wayne...
Chris Matthews's MSNBC show 'Hardball' is broadcasting tonight from Georgetown University. The theme of tonight's program is "The Road to War," and guest panelists include Peter Arnett (formerly of CNN), Bill Arkin (military analyst), and Gens. Barry McCaffrey and Wayne...
Jan
16
2003
north korea tries to make its case online
Slate posted a story Monday (DearLeader.com - Kim Jong-il's fanboy home page) about a curious website intended to convey North Korea's point of view to the Western world. The site is purportedly a volunteer project maintained by a 20-something Spaniard...
Slate posted a story Monday (DearLeader.com - Kim Jong-il's fanboy home page) about a curious website intended to convey North Korea's point of view to the Western world. The site is purportedly a volunteer project maintained by a 20-something Spaniard...
Jan
6
2003
don't believe holiday doom-and-gloom pronouncements
Don't believe the media's doom-and-gloom pronouncements about the holiday shopping season -- they're often based on incomplete data or faulty assumptions. So why do the media keep reporting this story?
Don't believe the media's doom-and-gloom pronouncements about the holiday shopping season -- they're often based on incomplete data or faulty assumptions. So why do the media keep reporting this story?
Dec
25
2002
merry christmas ... of death
'Tis the season for family angst ... and, for some, mourning. I'm in Tucson, visiting my family for the holidays. Current events are seriously depressing me.
'Tis the season for family angst ... and, for some, mourning. I'm in Tucson, visiting my family for the holidays. Current events are seriously depressing me.
Dec
11
2002
son of snow day
I've added some more photos from my "snow day" experience. These were taken the following day (Friday, Dec. 6), on my way into work. ...
I've added some more photos from my "snow day" experience. These were taken the following day (Friday, Dec. 6), on my way into work. ...
![[Photo]](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2612/4086303333_6985468b59_t.jpg)
