R.I.P. Rocky Mountain News

It seems as if the invention of the Internet is killing traditional print newspapers. For years now, I have been reading that subscriptions were down and that papers were in the red. Now, another “victim” has bitten the dust – Denver’s Rocky Mountain News. After almost 150 years in the business, the Rocky Mountain News sent out its last issue on Friday. What did the final headline read? It said “Goodbye, Colorado.” The articles went on to say “It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to you today. Our time chronicling the life of Denver and Colorado, the … Continue reading →

Dumbest Celebrity Quotes…Ever!

As you probably can tell, I love celebrities. In my mind, they are superhuman. They wake up looking beautiful (yes, deep down I know they wake up looking shabby just like I do), they are always taller than they really are, and they are always intelligent. Well, that is until they open their mouths. Here are a few of the dumbest quotes ever uttered out of a celeb mouth: Blondes will be blondes, even if they are fake: Britney Spears – “I get to go overseas place, like Canada” Jessica Simpson – “Is this chicken what I have, or is … Continue reading →

Radio Stations Temporarily Change Format

I do not know if you have experienced this or not, but here in Jacksonville, North Carolina, we have had two stations that have gone from their normal format to 24 hour Christmas music through the holidays. It seems to be a growing trend! In fact, there are approximately 399 stations in the U.S. that have temporarily changed their formats and are playing Christmas music constantly. Portland, Oregon has two stations, but some cities – I am assuming cities like New York or Los Angeles – have as many as five stations doing this. Most stations begin their “new” broadcasting … Continue reading →

Internet Search Engines: Technology’s Boon

The Internet’s digital library is certainly one of its most notable resources. For the teacher, student, writer and general researcher, the tool is invaluable because it is so easy to use and couldn’t be more accessible if it tried. You can do a search in pajamas or an evening gown, in slipper, loafers, stiletto heels, or even while watching television and talking on the phone. If you are a lady and true blue multi-tasker, you might even be able to polish your nails and/or dry your hair at the same time! But all kidding aside, Internet search engines have made … Continue reading →

Internet Chat Rooms: Some Positive Thoughts

In light of my recent article about the dangers of chat rooms, it seems only fair to present the other side, which covers the unique resources available in the many chat rooms that exist in our cyber culture. Truth be told, chat rooms are a wonderful and unique form of communication and exchange between people with like interests; kind of like a club with invisible members! Talking over the computer can be a very positive force in anyone’s life and psychologically, it is a way to really know someone without being influenced by outward appearances. You can’t see who you … Continue reading →

Internet Safety: Intruder In the House

You may think that if your computer is in plain sight for all family members to see that your child is thus safe from the predators and child molesters who lurk, like alligators in leafy glades, waiting for unsuspecting prey. As is the case with all other primitive frontiers, there are no boundaries at inception. They are first set then established and honed, depending on use and abuse. Although the Internet has been around for quite a while, there is still a paucity of laws concerning child safety and protection from those who would hurt our children. This muddled mess … Continue reading →

Cell Phone Privacy: Reality Or Illusion?

Are we really alone whenever we close a door and speak on the phone? According to a recent newscast, the reality is that many of us have unexpected and unwanted company due to the downside of modern technology. The erosion of privacy of which I speak has nothing to do with eavesdropping or wire-tapping; it concerns online data brokers who, for a price of usually under $100, will sell anyone’s cell phone records to anyone who requests them. While this may seem just annoying to some, consider the case of a woman who is being stalked by an abusive ex-husband … Continue reading →