I saw the headline "Arkansas to grade kids on obesity" on the news today, and all I could think was: "At least they'll pass something..."

In other news, I received a somewhat depressing email at work today. A college student emailed the museum to ask for permission to use an article on our website in a paper she is writing for her World History course. I had to find a tactful way to tell her that she was welcome to use any published work in her paper, so long as she cites it correctly, thus avoiding plagiarism, and that requesting permission was not necessary. She even has to turn in said article as a source. I have a sinking sensation that some professor, somewhere (she sent the email from her parents' personal account, so I can't figure out where) is going to receive a stack of books, photocopies, and print-outs in response to his request that his/her students turn in their citations. What are they teaching kids in high school now? Could you imagine trying to track down every author or publisher for every source you ever cited in a paper to ask if it was okay that you cited them? Using images copyrighted to them or another source or extensively quoting them is one thing, but this is ridiculous.
I suppose I should be grateful that if she thought she needed permission, she went to the trouble of asking for it. But I doubt I'll be so charitable if I receive a reply tomorrow asking why I spelled "site" wrong so many times in my reply...

You are The Cap'n!

Some men are born great, some achieve greatness and some slit the throats of any man that stands between them and the mantle of power. You never met a man you couldn't eviscerate. Not that mindless violence is the only avenue open to you - but why take an avenue when you have complete freeway access? You are the definitive Man of Action. You are James Bond in a blousy shirt and drawstring-fly pants. Your swash was buckled long ago and you have never been so sure of anything in your life as in your ability to bend everyone to your will. You will call anyone out and cut off their head if they show any sign of taking you on or backing down. You cannot be saddled with tedious underlings, but if one of your lieutenants shows an overly developed sense of ambition he may find more suitable accommodations in Davy Jones' locker. That is, of course, IF you notice him. You tend to be self absorbed - a weakness that may keep you from seeing enemies where they are and imagining them where they are not.

What's Yer Inner Pirate?
brought to you by The Official Talk Like A Pirate Web Site. Arrrrr!

Hmmm, a "Man of Action" - looks like I've been masculated again...
On another note, I should be in town to celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day - I'll be leaving late Thursday or early Friday to grace you all with my chummy presence.
"Arrrr, I'll be needing some Snickers to go with me petrol, you scurvy cur!"