Gongol.com Archives: May 2006
Brian Gongol



Humor and Good News (2006.05.17)
How a Cubs fan must console himself
Their recent outbreak of losses (3-12 in the last 15 games) is too much for even the loveable losers

Threats and Hazards (2006.05.17)
Verizon denies turning over phone records to government

Computers and the Internet (2006.05.17)
The spam arms race
Security company launches counter-spam attack by responding in bulk to incoming spam; Russian spammer counter-attacks with massive denial-of-service attack; security firm decides to close rather than continue the war

Threats and Hazards (2006.05.17)
UN Security Council threatens to send peacekeepers to Darfur

The United States of America (2006.05.17)
Texas may adopt 80 mph limits on some Interstate highways
It's only about 10% higher than 75 mph, but it seems like a huge psychological barrier

Business and Finance (2006.05.17)
Average student loan debt now $17,600
Good effects: High levels of debt may discourage people from pursuing low-demand degrees (thus making for a more efficient allocation of the labor force). Bad effects: People with that much debt may find themselves incapable of escaping a cycle of perpetual borrowing. Also, it may discourage many good applicants from entering school, reducing the considerable benefits society gains from having an educated population.

Water News (2006.05.17)
Drink your iceberg, Dearie
Drought in southeastern England is so bad, the water utilities are seriously considering towing icebergs into London

Humor and Good News (2006.05.17)
The Onion: Computer sacrifices itself to save world from bad writing
"I'll never forget that brave computer's last words: 'You will lose any unsaved information in all applications. Press any key to continue."

Also...
Water news: London so low on water, tankers and icebergs are being considered
Graphics: Deutsche Morgen