3.19.2008

The Global Integrity Report


The Global Integrity Report is a tool for understanding governance and anti-corruption mechanisms at the national level. Written by local researchers and journalists, the Report is characterized by an innovative, award-winning research methodology; a robust peer review process; and start-to-finish transparency.
An Integrity Indicators scorecard assesses the existence, effectiveness, and citizen access to key governance and anti-corruption mechanisms through more than 300 actionable indicators. It examines issues such as transparency of the public procurement process, media freedom, asset disclosure requirements, and conflicts of interest regulations. Scorecards take into account both existing legal measures on the books and de facto realities of practical implementation in each country.

Link

"Canada scores pretty decently, but there are definite areas where we need some work, mostly in accountability - what a surprise!"

3.18.2008

Sam Raimi Returns to Epic Fantasy TV with "Wizard's First Rule"


Variety reports that Sam Raimi is returning to the fantasy television genre with a new hourlong series, Wizard's First Rule, based on the Sword of Truth books by Terry Goodkind. The ABC/Disney production just received a full 22 episode order, and will be syndicated throughout the US. Production is set to begin in May.
According to Variety: "The weekly hourlong series follows Richard Cypher, a young man who makes his living leading people through dangerous forests, as he investigates the murder of his father and finds himself opposing Darken Rahl, the son of an evil wizard."

Link

"The man who brought us Xena and Hercules back with another fantasy series? Looks like it might be just as entertaining!"

3.16.2008

Extreme Pizza Cutters!

(Click on images to enlarge)

When Fascism Comes To America


The Grand Lake Theater in Oakland, CA has gained fame for using half of it’s Marquee to display political messages. Following the 2000 election owner Allen Michaan displayed a message saying “This Is America — Every Vote Should Be Counted”. Since then Michaan has regularly displayed messages save for a brief lapse between the midterm elections of November 2006 and January 2007.


"Perhaps it's time for a new revolution."

Just Some Colourful Heros For Your Sunday....






(Click on any of the images to enlarge)

Anonymous PRESS RELEASE

The "IDES OF MARCH" is almost upon us and tomorrow thousands of Anoymous Individuals will protest their disgust of the "Church" Scietology across the ENTIRE PLANET.
In this video, we, Anonymous, define our plans to DISMANTLE the Church of Scientology and outline the reasons WHY WE FIGHT.



"I had no idea the Church of Scientology had better tax-exempt status than any other religion in the United States!"

3.15.2008

Physics report-card for science fiction movies

Space epics almost always play fast and loose with science, treating the laws of physics like suggestions. Sound in space, unprotected bodies splatting in vacuum, and alien planets that all look just like Calabasas. But some movies dismember Newton and Einstein with way more gusto than others.
To some extent, it's understandable that space adventures play fast and loose with physics. After all, who wants to watch Han Solo spend years on the journey to Alderaan, only to find that the planet has twice Earth gravity and he can barely stand up, much less swagger?
18 movies rated based on how many laws of physics they mangled, and here's the report card.

Link

"Whaddaya mean we can't dodge laser beams?"

Which giant corporation owns your favorite tiny organic food brand?

(Click on image to enlarge)

"Interesting...it'll only be a matter of time before this earth is ruled by the corporations."
"You mean it isn't already?!?"