Incivility in presidential politics: tearing down instead of building up

If you were thirsty and your choices were a glass of milk that had been sitting in sun-baked 95-degree temperature for six hours and a glass of milk that had been sitting in it for four days, which would you chose? Some choice, right? That’s how I am seeing the 2012 presidential campaign shaping upRead… Read more »

Your Electronic Personality

I was leading a workshop on blogging and had the opportunity to listen to some fans. They had some strong ideas about me that didn’t have much to do with the guy who uses my desk. Then I thought about my teachers, John and Suw and Eric and Marc and Will and realized I haveRead… Read more »

New digital info tools raise questions about uses of public space

New digital tools are making travel easier and more informative, but they are raising questions about the use of public space. Many of these applications are funded through partnerships with private entities which, presumably, are not getting something for nothing. New York City Transit’s new information kiosks, for example, will carry advertisements and also allowRead… Read more »

Should government employees “cool-off” before entering the contracting world?

A senate hearing earlier this week focused on Intelligence Community contracting presented several interesting thoughts. Most notably, a bi-partisan panel agreed with a CIA policy which prevents government employees from leaving the agency and immediately accepting contract work. Retirees are exempted. The whole idea is to prevent the “poaching” of the CIA’s top talent, whoRead… Read more »

Metrolink to add quiet cars

Metrolink (CA) will be adding quiet cars starting on October 3 to help commuters enjoy a “noise-free commute.” “Our new quiet cars will make the commute on Metrolink trains even more enjoyable for those, like myself, who prefer a more peaceful commute,” said board chairman Richard Katz in a statement. “Some of our passengers preferRead… Read more »

Visalia Transit adds real-time bus tracking

Visalia Transit (CA) introduced real-time arrival information for its 44 buses last week. Riders now have the option to track buses via website or cell phone and to set up alerts when the vehicle is approaching. “This is amazing. This is going to encourage more people to ride the bus,” said councilman Don Sharp. “It’sRead… Read more »

We have the technology

The information is out there. The technology is available. All it requires is a fair bit of inspiration and a little bit of perspiration to develop small scale applications that can really make a difference to people’s lives. A map can tell you which direction to go in, but it cannot tell you what yourRead… Read more »

Politicians Love To See Their Name!

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown has taken promoting his name to a level never seen before by a local politician. Putting the Mayor’s name on newly purchased fire trucks, which caused a public back lash has brought the issue of the Mayor’s self promotion to a head. As reported in the Buffalo News: Office entrances. GatewaysRead… Read more »