by Seth Johnson

Marvel comics might be the forerunner of mainstream digital comics today with its extensive collection of over 10,000 comics. But that’s not to say that its rival, DC and other comic publishers haven’t given Marvel a run for their money. DC has already given fans previews to upcoming comics and graphic novels by making half of the comic be viewed as a web comic. DC has also released podcasts and video interviews with creators and publishers to keep you updated on what’s happening in the wonderful world of comics. Darkhorse comics is also following in DC’s footsteps by releasing previews to comics in the form of digital comics and posting podcasts and interviews much like Image comics with its content.
For more comics information try these sites:
www.marvelcomics.com
www.dccomics.com
www.darkhorsecomics.com
www.imagecomics.com

by: Chris Adams

When you want to grab some digital files and put them in a different folder, have you ever thought of actually being able to “grab” them? Like something out of Minority Report. This is slowly becoming a reality due to the development of “Epoc” technology from Emotiv.

Electroencephalography is the measuring or recording of electric activity of the brain and has been used in the medical field but since 1970. It has been employed to explore brain-computer interfaces. Emotiv has developed the first neural reading device that doesn’t require a net of sensors, gel on the scalp, or a special technician. Emotiv’s “Epoc” Headset is a brain-computer interface that reads electrical impulses in the brain and translates them to computer related tasks or commands. The “Epoc” technology can also detect your physical facial expressions and relay them to your game avatar. This opens up exciting new ideas to develop in the game world. Imagine a World War II FPS where you may laugh in the real world at the demise of your enemy and be reprimanded in real-time by your commander within the game world.

Emotiv’s website (www.emotive.com) contains picture of the headset hardware and an interview and demonstration of exactly how this technology works and what it can do.

BBC News
By Darren Waters
http://news.bbc.co.

By John Wolsky

As disappointed American gamers look on, one of the most anticipated games of the New Year was pushed back again. Super Smash Brother’s Brawl was pushed back to Sunday, March 9th. While the announcement took most as a shock, to those who pay a little bit closer attention to the release dates of videogames know that Nintendo is especially notorious for pushing back its most highly anticipated titles. To hold the fan base over until the official release, the official Smash Bros website (www.smashbros.com) has been releasing daily news about some of the secrets, including revealing some of the unlockable characters in the game. The really nice thing about the way they are releasing these daily news updates is by showing the users a “???” link on the homepage, so if you are afraid to see a few spoilers you can still manage to avoid them, but not miss out on any of the important news updates. Super Smash Brother’s Brawl will be a Wii exclusive title, so if you don’t have one now, good luck trying to get one within a few weeks! With the addition of all the new game play modes (such as online play) and characters the game will be a must have for any Wii owner, or any fan of the series. From what we hear from Japan, the game is pretty epic, and with the addition of at LEAST twelve more characters, it is easy to see why they are so excited about it.

by Anthony Morrow

The second Tuesday of the month came and went this week. To anybody in the IT field this can only mean one thing: Microsoft updates. For the past several years Microsoft has rolled out patches and fixes for their products on the second Tuesday of every month. This time, 12 updates were released fixing issues with Internet Explorer, Office, XP, and Vista. Most deal with preventing remote code execution from malicious files, such as Word/Excel documents. March appears to be a bigger month for updates. Microsoft just finished work on Service Pack 1 for Vista. This large update addresses both security and usability issues that were discovered in Windows Vista since its release in 2007. The most notable change consumers will see is the increase performance while copying files and the overall stability.

Microsoft wasn’t the only company releasing updates this week. The latest patch for Apple’s Leopard operation system is now available. It brings the version number for OS X to 10.5.2 and addresses over 75 issues found since the last release. Stacks, one of the new features in Leopard, can now be viewed as a list rather than the standard grid and fan view. Improvements in connection and reliability for wireless networks have also been made. Finally, the option to have the menu bar transparent or opaque has been added to the system preferences. These are just a few of the fixes and additions made to Leopard. For anybody who has been using Leopard, this is definitely an update worth installing.

http://technet2.microsoft.com/WindowsVi ... x?mfr=true

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=307109

By Adam Conner

With the approach of Valentine's Day, you may be beginning to try and buy something for your sweetie or hubbie. You may know what to get or you may be having trouble. Some of you may think Valentine's Day is overdone and is unnecessary. Some may feel the loneliness it brings with it, reminding of some people, like myself, who are single and dislike being reminded of why we get a little down around these times.

My approach to dating hasn't been the best. Nor has it been successful at times. Sometimes I was just too afraid to try. The fear of rejection just loomed within my mind and kept me frozen in my place, preventing me from even asking one of my female friends to even a movie or get-together. I have always been the friend, which isn't bad at all, but sometimes I wish I could have taken it further by using these simple dating steps, without even being afraid of the idea of rejection. After doing some research, I came across one of my favorite sites that offer six great tips on how to overcome that fear in our lives and to just try.

My information comes from a Christian website, Boundless.org, and while I may refer to a few details about God being involved in a relationship, a lot of the advice they give is very practical, helpful to anyone. It even helped me. While this may help, it is also good to probably read up on other articles or books or even talking to wise friends who can really help you and encourage you in this area of learning. Without further ado, here are 6 dating tips to maybe give you a jump start to the next step you want to take towards the girl or guy who have an interest in.

Date committed people. Now for Christians, this is important in forming a God-centered relationship with people of the opposite sex who are committed believers. But it is just as important for other people as well. Find someone who has similar interests and passions like you do. Build a friendship with the person first. Find someone who you know you would have no problem being yourself around. Don't show it all off on the first date but gradually allow more of it to come out as the right opportunity emerges. The biggest thing you want to do is to quell the nervousness within yourself and wrestle to make sure you don't go too far on scaring the other person but not making the other person think you do not care much for their presence because you are too nervous to say or do anything. Don't think about what others will say or do when you are yourself. To me, substance is more important than image, not saying attraction isn't important in wanting to take someone on a date. Be yourself.

Plan your dates in advance. Having the same goals is one of the essentials to having a strong dating relationship. It takes time to develop and live out those goals and careful planning too. According to Bill Gothard, founder of Basic Youth Conflicts seminars, says “the chief purpose of dating is to achieve spiritual oneness.” Guys, make sure you take charge. This includes me also. You are the leader in the cultivation of the relationship. Plan for enjoying activities but also try to plan for ones that will produce fulfillment and mutual respect for each other. If your dating style is just kind of a lazy “hanging out,” consider transforming yourself into “the man with the plan.” If you come up with the what, when, where and how it will not only communicate that you care enough to do some advanced thinking, but she will respect you as a leader who knows where he’s going.

Save yourself for marriage. Now you may have heard this a lot before but sex after marriage is better than sex before. According to the author of this article, in all the years of counseling he has done, he has observed that to the degree a couple is sexually intimate before marriage is the same degree that they lack sexual satisfaction after marriage. Reading a classic together like Pure Excitement by Joe White or Choices by Paula and Stacey Rinehart will help prepare you for not only an exciting dating relationship but also maybe a great marriage one day.

Work on Communication. I'll let the author explain himself on this issue. Here is what he says taken straight from the article: “ If you’re dating someone who wants a little less talk and a lot more action, you might want to check their spiritual pulse. Getting to know a person’s body has nothing to do with getting to know the person inside that body. In fact, communication vanishes as the fog of guilt rolls in. Anybody can kiss, but how about carrying on a meaningful conversation? In other words, if you end up marrying the person you’re dating, the wedding night may be great, but what do you talk about at breakfast the next morning? And as the years slip by our beautiful bodies have a way of sagging and wrinkling, so there better be a deep bond of friendship that outlasts temporal physical attraction. Learn how to ask good questions, how to share facts and feelings, and how to listen. There may be a reason God gave us two ears and only one mouth! Get to know their past and present, likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses, values and dreams. Most married couples are shocked when they realize 90 percent of their dating period was activities and only 10 percent communication, and that after the honeymoon, those percentages reversed themselves.”

Throw out expectations. Again, I'll let the author take charge on this issue: “ Sometimes pressure comes from within when one partner has stronger feelings than the other and wants to always “define” the relationship. Jealousy and possessiveness dominate many couples and the only brand of relationships some students know are the conditional kind that always says, “I’ll love you if . . . ” or “I love you because. . . . ” Give each other lots of room to roam-desiring what is best for them-even if it isn't you. . And why let your heart be torn in half every time there’s a breakup? Let’s face it, every relationship you get into is going to end until the “right one” comes along. Relax, go slow, build a friendship, and beware of someone who, on your first date, peppers you with questions about how many children you want! Refuse to allow others to rope you into a dating pattern or relationship that you’re uncomfortable with. Take your time and don’t force it. Let the feelings develop in both of your hearts, in the right timing.

Focus on becoming the right person. Focus on becoming the right person instead of finding the right person and the Lord will bring along someone who far surpasses your checklist. Truly, the riskiest decision you’ll ever make is who you’ll marry, and if this is true, then who you date ─ and how you date ─ can make you or break you. For my fellow believers, a final truth that transcends any list is the fact that no human relationship can fill our deepest needs to love and be loved. Jesus Christ alone fits into the God shaped vacuum in each of us.

Again this is advice. There are plenty more sources of information out there that can be helpful to you. Don't give up. Be patient. It is suppose to be a wonderful journey anyways. Good luck.

by April Patriarca

With our evolving technology, finding Mr. or Mrs. Right isn’t so hard anymore. Online Dating has been very popular with increasing Online Dating Services. These days, it isn’t so hard to find someone who shares common interests with you. Although Online Dating has advantages of its own, over a period of time it has been misused and corrupted by many disadvantages. Online Dating is fun and convenient, but be careful dating someone you hardly know.

Safety is a huge factor in online dating. By educating yourself, you’re decreasing the chances of being a victim. Here are some tips to enjoying your online dating experience and being safe doing it.

1. Keep Your Information Private
Keep in mind that you are dealing with strangers online. To ensure your safety, do not give out personal information such as full name, address and phone numbers. This will ensure your physical safety because with that little information people can do searches and can find out where you work, what you do, and where you live.

2. Be Aware of Pretenders
Be aware that how they describe themselves can be completely different from who they really are. It’s unfortunate but true. There are plenty of married people who use online dating services and will even go as far as meeting people in person. With this comes the next tip.

3. Communication
When communicating with a stranger, it is best to use online services such as free email and phone services. When it comes to email, it is smart not to use your work email address; perhaps use Yahoo, MSN, or even Gmail while trying to communicate with someone. When time comes to move your communication to the next level, never give out your home phone number. Provide them with either a cell phone number or use Skype and any other anonymous phone service providers. This is just another protection barrier until you get to know the person better.

4. Ask for a Recent Photo
There is nothing wrong about asking someone for their recent photo. A photo will help you get a good look at the person that you may eventually meet in person. Plus your instincts from your communications and their photos may provide you with valuable insight into the person. If they provide you with a recent photo, and you meet and see a major difference, then you'll know the person lied and you can cut the date short. If a person lies about their picture or profile, it’s a red flag to no longer pursue the relationship.

5. Stick with Paid Online Dating Services
There is a saying that goes, “You get what you paid for.” Be aware of free Online Dating Services and stick with paid services. With paid services you will have better quality from the service. Also, it ensures your confidentiality more and protection. If someone is harassing you or making you feel uncomfortable, you can report them to the dating service. If you choose to stick with free online services, you be able to get more protection.

6. Trust Your Instinct
Learn to trust your instincts. Too often we fight or ignore what our gut instinct tells us. Our instinct is always telling us something. If something about your online companion doesn’t fell right, do not try to pursue the relationship.

7. Do Not Let Peer Pressure Take Over You
If your online date pressures you to do something you do not want to do, say “NO” and mean it. If they keep insisting, you know it’s time to end the date. Too often we let peer pressure take over us; do not give in! If they do not respect your decision to not do something, you know something is wrong. A person should respect one another to get the same respect as well. If you let them peer pressure you once, they will more than likely do it again.

8. Report Any Attacks
If you were threatened or something goes wrong, don’t feel embarrassed to come to the police. Tell them every detail and all the facts; if you don’t they are more likely to do it again. Just think: you might be saving another person from this situation.

9. Do Not Go Home Nor Leave with Them
Provide your own transportation while meeting them. Do not let them know where you live; they could be a stalker. Make sure you give them limited information about your whereabouts. Never go home with them or pick them up. It’s dangerous to be alone with a person you just met. Try to let time take its course before going home with them.

10. Meet in Public Places
Make sure when meeting them for the first time that you meet them in a public place. If something goes wrong, people will be able to help you; never walk alone with them in a park or the lake because you are limiting your chances of getting help. You should treat this first meeting as a blind date; make it short. You are just getting a feeling of who they are. Tell your friends or a relative where you are at, who you are with, and what time you will be home. In case something does happen, they will know where to look for you. Bring a cell phone in case of emergencies.

By Scott Roberts

In October 2006 Beekeepers started to notice that bees were disappearing. In 2007 Europe Beekeepers estimate that 40% of their colonies have mysteriously disappeared. No real cause has been identified as to why these colonies are void of bees, but some scientists speculate that cell phone towers may be the cause.

In 2003, a German University did a study that suggests that radiation from GSM cell towers influence the behavior of bees. The 900 MHz to 1800 MHz frequency range had caused the bees to avoid returning to the hive. It has been suggested that this frequency may throw off the bee’s ability to communicate through dance.

When we have driven away all the bees what shall our fate be? Albert Einstein once may have stated that if all the bees were to suddenly disappear one day that humanity would have about 4 years left before extinction. Although this statement is a bit dated it is clear that without bees pollination is extremely hard without the help of bees. Since 1/3 of the food we eat is pollinated from bees this is a serious issue that needs to be resolved. Since Einstein’s time we have made much progress and therefore the absence of bees will most likely not be our cause of demise, but many of the foods we know and love will slowly yet surely start to fade

by Brady Begley

The FFC is auctioning off 1,099 licenses in the 700 MHz band and a lot of powerful companies are bidding their way in. This is the band that over-the-air television stations currently broadcast on and the FCC is forcing an analog to digital move by 2009. This is a good deal for consumers due to the quality of the image you will get and opens this band for new technologies to use.

-What is it?
Officially known as “Auction 73” this 700 MHz band has come on to market due to the analog to digital move.

-Who is involved?
Well of course the FCC and all the other money hungry corporations.

-When is it over?
At the end of the month

-Why is this important?
The analog to digital move will improve the quality of the image you receive with a hardware upgrade to a digital receiver and open the band for new technologies to use for data and voice communications.

According to who wins the bid will determine what this new market will be used for. There are many speculations as far as what it will be used for. My personal thoughts on what will happen is; Google will get most of the band which is not the greatest for transmitting data on which is what they want it for. They will trade this band to another one better suited for data transmission.

by Kris Hammons

Adobe is making its final preparations to bring their newest project, Adobe AIR, out of public beta and into the mainstream market. Adobe AIR, which stands for Adobe Integrated Runtime, is a software development and deployment platform which allows developers to deploy internet-based applications to the desktop of any of the three major Operating Systems, Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.

Adobe AIR, which was formally named Apollo when announced by Adobe last March, is currently in public beta 3 and is set for a 1.0 release next month; an exact launch date has not been announced. Developers can develop Adobe AIR applications with an array of different technologies, including Adobe’s own Flash. Furthermore, if you are an avid web programmer, you can just as easily deploy your cross-platform application using just HTML and AJAX. Adobe goes into the launch month of AIR with a few large organizations already migrating to the platform. Nasdaq and the American Cancer Society are just two notable names who are backing Adobe on the AIR platform.

Mozilla looks to have its own project rolling with Mozilla Prism. Prism, built on the same concept of rich internet applications being deployed to the desktop, looks to compete head on with Adobe’s AIR. However, Mozilla looks to use the next public release of its popular web browser, Firefox 3, as a launching pad for the application environment. Similar to Adobe’s AIR, Prism will allow HTML/AJAX-based rich internet applications to be deployed across the three major desktop environments (although, the current builds of Prism only work in the Microsoft Windows version of Firefox). Mozilla has big names in its camp as well, such as Google and Facebook, who are getting on board with this project early.

While Adobe’s and Mozilla’s technologies may be similar, their approaches in development and deployment could not be more drastically different. Adobe looks to have AIR aimed at the web applications developer, a person or team of people who have developed a rich internet application and want to port it to having access to desktop functions while still keeping ties with the web backend. On the other hand, Mozilla looks to aim Prism squarely at the users. It is Mozilla’s dream not to make an entirely new runtime environment, but to allow users to ‘branch’ any of their favorite web applications into its own, separate desktop application. Mozilla plans to do this using only Firefox 3 and functionality built within it, allowing a user to take any web standards-based site or web application and make it into a standalone desktop application. In contrast, Adobe AIR requires the installation of the Adobe AIR runtime environment, similar to users needing to install Adobe Reader to view PDF documents. However, Adobe AIR developers will have the technologies and abilities to make sleek desktop applications with the use of HTML, AJAX and even Flash technologies.

With Adobe nearing a 1.0 release of AIR and Mozilla still in the early stages of Prism alongside of Firefox 3, it might appear that Adobe has a head start. This perception may just be perception, but bringing rich internet applications to the desktop looks to be the next frontier that will definitely take shape as 2008 progresses.

by Chris Adams

Laptops, phones, PDAs, and iPods; surely most of us have at least one of these devices. The amount of technology we use in our daily lives is pretty astonishing. Some people easily spend more time interacting with technology than they do with other human beings face to face. This trend has led many to argue that technology is truly an addiction and may be as harmful as drugs.

In the article, How to Tell If You Are Addicted to Technology by Clara Moskowitz of LiveScience; John O'Neill, director of addictions services for the Menninger Clinic in Houston says, "I believe that technology has benefited us greatly, but my concern is that many of us have taken it too far, and it's become a substitute for those necessary face to face conversations." Others believe we have yet to see the true long term affects of too much technology.

It is hard to for the average person to not come in contact with the technology in daily life. We are inundated at supermarkets in self check outs, at the gas pump, in our homes, and on our roads. With so much technology used by so many people could we stop if we had to?

How to Tell If You Are Addicted to Technology
By Clara Moskowitz of LiveScience
http://www.livescience.com/technology/0 ... dicts.html