Since the release of the iPhone, I’ve followed the loudly vocal debate between the advocates of Apples approach and their many and varied opponents amongst technical literati, open source advocates and folks who just want something that Apple didn’t include. A few things seem notable, especially in light of this week’s debut of the iPad.

1. If the feature you want is not included, whatever that is, it can be hard to get over that. In my case, I’ve got devices and computing—well, covered. So with the iPad, I was interested, but I hardly was expecting myself to want one since there aren’t any “features” I feel I need, period. After thinking the iPad over, I’ll say I’m very interested.
2. If you can’t add kernel extensions, play FLAC files or set the default keyboard to dvorak, the thing is a failure.
3. I saw over a half dozen posts about the “dangerous threat” of Apple moving towards “closed,” such as the app store. “Computers were designed to be open…” Last time I checked, you can build a linux box for a weeks lunch money. No? Just because Apple wants to build devices with a controlled UI does not in any way cause you lose open computing. It’s just not what Apple does.
4. No flash? No comment, not worth the breath.
5. No upgradable parts? Why would that matter if the device can do what most users need it to? You can always design and build your own if you want/can.
6. Windows? Any current Macintosh computer is a viable PC, seems like we forget that. Not iPhone/iPad? Would you want Windows Mobile, really?
7. Again, if you want something Apple doesn’t provide, there are unlimited opportunities to buy, design or build what you want. Why is Apple bad for not building it the way you think it should be?
8. FUD. Somehow this is like telling me it’s the bartender’s fault I got drunk [which in many places in our country it is.] If you feel that Steve Jobs has brainwashed consumers into buying his under-featured, closed-sourced, limited, un-upgradable products against their best interests, shame on them for buying the stuff. I hold everyone responsible personally for anything they pulled the trigger on and bought. If Apple products don’t do what you need, don’t buy them.
9. Apple is way more expensive. This issue is subjective. If you don’t think the products are worth the money, no worries. In my case, I know how much time I spend in a Windows or Linux environment to accomplish what I do on a Mac. Macs do what I need best. That’s not you, just me.
10. Design, oh that?

listen, simple dance beat, all you need for your dancing ritual, release, torrent, etude, do it.

Click on the photo to go over the the slideshow page.

The Front Porch

love life and expect it.

g.

The headshot was during a break in a sandstorm, hanging with Abigail and our essential and unbelievably generous “Hair of the Dog” bar next door, then there are some other interesting photos too:

Beautiful Winged "Ring" Playa 2008

Center Camp, Black Rock City, 2008

Hair of the Dog Bar, Sandstorm, Black Rock City 2008, pict by AB

Equine Art Car

This year I plan to get some better handlebars for the bike and more lights, yeah! Lighting up your bike is critical for safety reasons on the playa, but also is a serious art form. I need to get “sequencers” this year! Maybe even audio BPM sync?

Over and Out

G

croc and foliage from my roof

The season of leaves past with a couple of rushes of wind around Halloween and the trees are now mostly bare.  That doesn’t stop me from remembering October with happiness.  I had a great staycation with CuJo and really was able to get a bunch done on the house.  The taste of satisfaction propels me into our impending winter with enthusiasm and hope.

I’ve not felt so excited about the winter season since my return to the east and move to VT in 2004.  Many of the goals that were set prior to that move have been met and newer unexpected goals and initiatives have also panned out.  Not that some good intentions came up short, but the overall plan has been a huge success and this November, I’m really trying to take stock and think back over the journey.

It would be senseless for me not to thank the many who’ve helped and supported me through the last five years.  Special thanks to Cujo, my mom and sister, to Propeller and NGA and to all of my friends in VT.

Namaste.

G

www.youtube.com/watch?v=thiTa8wfZsc

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My best effort to make nordic seem cool…