fun facts

Steve Ballmer talks through the US federal budget.

“He discusses taxes, mandatory and discretionary spending, the federal deficit, as well as spending on Medicare, veterans, social security, and more. Get the data straight from the source, so that you can have the information you need ahead of the […]

to your health

Dermatology’s disastrous war against the sun.

This is anonymously published by “a midwestern doctor” so who knows just how much of this is bs. Informed readers, please write to me! “Skin cancers are by far the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, so to […]

big ideas

Solar cells keep getting cheaper.

FOB China prices are now under $0.05/watt for the most popular solar cells in the market. Lower prices open new markets, which drive more volume, which can lower prices further. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for this virtuous cycle! Note […]

fun facts

When RAND made magic in Santa Monica.

“RAND’s halcyon days lasted two decades, during which the corporation produced some of the most influential developments in science and American foreign policy. So how did it become just another think tank?” ~ learn more

fun facts

Beach umbrellas injure thousands a year.

“Data from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) indicates that more than 31,000 people were treated in hospitals for umbrella-related injuries between 2008 and 2017.” ~ learn more

oh, chicago

Chicago’s fake robbery visa scam.

Here’s a story about a, “ Chicago-based scheme that staged armed robberies so the purported victims could apply for U.S. immigration visas reserved for legitimate crime victims.” ~ learn more

tech, startups, internet

The geopolitics of AI: May 2024.

“This sequence of events illustrates how the AI arms race is making geopolitical divides simultaneously more fraught and simpler. In its quest to defend US companies’ IP and prevent China from accessing the most advanced capabilities, the US government is […]