Jimmy Doohan gone

I would not be a true Trekkie if I did not acknowledge the passing of Jimmy Doohan, who will be forever known as Scotty - Mr Scott (or Lt Montgomerty Scott) from Star Trek. As far as I know, Doohan is the second of the cast of the original series to pass - after DeForest Kelley, who played Dr McCoy.

Ah, Star Trek! Perhaps some day I will post something about my experiences as a member of Enid's Star Trek club back in the 70's . . .

It was rather wrenching to read the headline about Doohan on NYTimes.com just now. I'm not looking forward to hearing about Shatner and Nimoy . . .

Steamboy is a masterpiece!

"There is no gene for the human spirit."

That's from a posting by Sarah Hintz on THE FORUM for Ayn Rand Fans. The posting discusses the film Gattaca.

Thank you, Muskogee!

This story has just made my day: voters in Muskogee have rejected a new sales tax that would fund a city "economic development" group!

Muskogee shoots down tax - Muskogee Phoenix

"It's sending a loud-and-clear message that Muskogee is closed for business," said Lisa Clark, executive director of Muskogee Development. "It has a definite negative impact. We'll be unable to attract businesses. It kind of immobilizes us."

But some voters said they didn't see it that way.

"The reason why I disagree with it is that every time one of those temporary sales taxes come to an end, they put it back on the ballot," said Chris Williams. "They aren't ever temporary."

The article doesn't say this, but maybe one of the reasons Muskogee voters rejected the tax is because these "economic development" groups are notorious for their cronyism and abuse of eminent domain.

Hey Muskogee! I've got a suggestion for you! Want more business? Why not try laissez-faire Capitalism!

I think I'll write a letter and send it to the Muskogee Phoenix!