I’ve implemented a similar method to the one Jon Hicks outlines for managing a link directory via MT. Manually entering a large batch of links in one go is a bit tiresome, but it’s a one off. It should open up possibilites for manipulation — such as syndication to notify users of updates and additions (?) — and allows for web-based updating.

A door-to-door security alarm salesperson stopped by our house yesterday afternoon. He must have thought he was pretty slick waving about a newspaper article on the Calgary Police shooting a burglar dead in a home this year. Buddy, just seeing that the Police were on the scene speaks volumes to me.

I’m not averse to installing a security alarm, but after life in South Africa I don’t think any sales pitch this guy could have dreamt up would be enough to shake me. Three break-ins — one in the middle of the night with my whole family asleep in the house — 2 attempted break-ins, friends and family who have been car-jacked, mugged, and raped in their own homes. Security alarms, guard dogs, razor wire, electric fencing, 8' spike-covered walls, electric gates, 1/4" solid steel burglar bars, security gates (inside and out), panic buttons, and handguns. You’re a rookie bub.

The neighbours have just shown up. They’re being all nice and friendly, welcoming us etc. I have a race to watch people. I’ve waited 5 months and you’re going to shoot me down with 11 minutes to go. Noooo.

The 2004 Formula 1 season gets under way in less than 30 minutes, with the start of the Australian Grand Prix. The 18-race season promises to be one of the liveliest in recent years, highlights include: two new tracks, a score of rookie drivers, a field of the most closely matched teams seen in recent years, the removal of launch control and full-automatic gearboxes. Ready your torches and pitchforks as I offer my predictions for the season.

Driver’s Championship

Michael Schumacher will again lift the driver’s title — not by the skin of his teeth either, expect a 15-30 point margin. You heard me! The German ace may be in the home-stretch of his career, but he remains extremely competitive. In Schumi’s favour: he is the most experienced driver on the track; quite possibly the hardest working too; the expertise of Ross Brawn and Rory Byrne.

The real action will be in the battle for second place. Montoya will have to fight off a strong challenge from Barrichello. If McLaren can find the performance, Raikkonen will feature here too.

As for the rest, expect strong showings from Jensen Button and Mark Webber, the Australian looks more competitive than I’ve previously given him credit. Ralf Schumacher may be in there too if he can ever get it — and hold it — together. I think Alonso’s not really all there yet, and may be over-hyped in any case.

Constructor’s Championship

Ferrari, Ferrari, Ferrari. I know you don’t want to hear it, but with two first-class drivers and superb reliability how can they do anything but take the most points. Second will go to Williams or Renault. McLaren may challenge for third IF they can deliver a car for the young Finn to work with. BAR will beat out the likes of Sauber, Jaguar, and Toyota.

There you have it. Flame away. Eric, for your own health I hope you’ll be able to catch the proceedings somehow: after 5 months of inaction, missing a race might just kill ya.

When the film in my fax machine ran out, I assumed that a trip to Office Depot — where I purchased the machine — would be all that was needed to get a replacement. Not so. They don’t carry the replacement supplies. Nor do Staples.

Try the Panasonic online store. Ahh! Good, they have it. Click to order. Get this message:

“Parts and accessories may be ordered over the internet Monday thru Saturday 6:00am to 1:00am EST. This site is currently available for Parts Pricing only. Please return during our normal business hours to place an order.”

Can you believe it? Sure they are only closed for 5 hours, and at a time when most North Americans are sleeping, but why close at all? For years we’ve considered the website a 24/7 storefront, one that bypassed the traditional incoveniences of time and place. Panasonic hasn’t picked up on that.