April 2006 Archives

April 30

How do you stop a content thief who has not plagiarised your work, but obviously has done so to others?

How do you stop a content thief who has not plagiarised your work, but obviously has done so to others? [more inside]
posted by maxpower at 10:54 PM PST - 12 comments

Pick the best science fiction book for the uninitiated...

My wife has agreed to give a single science fiction or fantasy book of my choice a try - I only have one chance, so help me choose wisely. [more inside]
posted by blahblahblah at 10:49 PM PST - 160 comments

Music for a black heart

Help me fill a villainous playlist. [more inside]
posted by nightengine at 8:54 PM PST - 64 comments

Reinventing Self

How does one go about reinventing themselves? [more inside]
posted by miltoncat at 8:42 PM PST - 14 comments

What can I do with lots of ginger?

What can I do with lots of ginger? [more inside]
posted by Etaoin Shrdlu at 7:46 PM PST - 27 comments

FOREX day trading, can it be done?

Do you trade FOREX? How's it going? [more inside]
posted by andrewyakovlev at 7:03 PM PST - 13 comments

Travellin' to Moncton...

Help make my stay in Moncton as good as it can be! [more inside]
posted by purephase at 6:10 PM PST - 4 comments

A Hard Day's Font?

FontFilter. Identify the font used in this Beatles movie poster, please. [more inside]
posted by grabbingsand at 6:04 PM PST - 10 comments

whence do you love

what are some good theoretical works on the concepts of love, monogamy, and so forth? [more inside]
posted by yonation at 6:00 PM PST - 15 comments

miniDV : how relevant after 10 years ?

MiniDV is ten years old. What can be said about this format after a decade? [more inside]
posted by amusem at 5:18 PM PST - 8 comments

Inspirational podcast

Please who can inform me about inspirational christian podcast that aims to strengthen my faith and improve my outlook of life ?
posted by Yiba at 4:59 PM PST - 14 comments

Why can't I use Firefox with Amazon.com?

Why doesn't Firefox allow me to view Amazon.com without doing several refreshes? [more inside]
posted by randomthoughts at 4:35 PM PST - 6 comments

She reads Simone de Beauvoir in her American circumstance

Song ideas for a mix tape themed around writers and/or literature, please. [more inside]
posted by ifjuly at 4:20 PM PST - 63 comments

Freeware to make a slideshow with soundtrack.

What free software can I use to make a slideshow of photos, with a soundtrack of several songs that are started and stopped at various points during the presentation? [more inside]
posted by ElfWord at 3:11 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I get more Cannon crack for my videogame fix?

Videogame Filter: Anyone ever found another game that plays the same as Cannon Cat?? Too much fun, too few levels. [more inside]
posted by anthill at 3:07 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me move email?

Need advice on moving email from one machine to another. [more inside]
posted by Mrs. Smith at 2:55 PM PST - 5 comments

Money for Nothing

If this "GOP energy package" is passed by congress, and I get a "hundred dollar gas tax holiday rebate check", where should I spend my new $100? [more inside]
posted by billtron at 1:30 PM PST - 24 comments

What can I do with a couple hundred pounds of sour oranges?

What can I do with a couple hundred pounds of sour oranges? [more inside]
posted by Optimus Chyme at 1:16 PM PST - 14 comments

Anyone have lasEk surgery?

Anyone out there have lasEk eye surgery? [more inside]
posted by bytemover at 1:14 PM PST - 12 comments

Control-click stopped working in Firefox

Control-click for tabs stopped working on Firefox 1.5 Windows -- how do I fix it? [more inside]
posted by gsh at 12:52 PM PST - 6 comments

What is the book?

BookFilter: I need help figuring out which book this is. Very little information inside. [more inside]
posted by Destroid at 12:28 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me find a trendy pair of boots!

I'm looking for a pair of trendy Men's boots. What's your favorite? [more inside]
posted by special-k at 12:07 PM PST - 16 comments

how to tow a big van

Help me get a broken down vehicle from PA to MI [more inside]
posted by ikareru at 11:34 AM PST - 6 comments

Seeking an application for previewing videos.

Anyone know of a video player or video catalog application with thumbnails? [more inside]
posted by mragreeable at 11:00 AM PST - 4 comments

How can I be forced to pay income tax to two states?

I live in New York and recently started a new job in New Jersey. On my first pay stub, I noticed that I'm paying a state income tax for both NY and NJ (and the tax for new jersey is actually $30 more than the NY tax). How can I be forced to pay income tax to two different states when I only live in one? This seems unjust.
posted by zembla3 at 10:55 AM PST - 5 comments

Biking on the Manhattan Greenway & GWB

I'd like to bike around the Manhattan waterfront, starting and ending at the GWB, using the official greenway path (pdf). My question is about those sections in red and blue: will I be biking through traffic? Having never ridden a bike through NYC traffic, am I putting myself in danger? How long would the entire thing take? Related question: has anyone ridden a bike across the GWB recently? It's legal, though they make it sound like it's teeming with pedestrian.
posted by exhilaration at 9:56 AM PST - 8 comments

High finance for low people

I need help finding a basic, introductory book surveying financial concepts. [more inside]
posted by Falconetti at 9:51 AM PST - 11 comments

Tipping and ex post facto restitution

I didn't think that I had to tip; now I think I should have. Any way to make this right? [more inside]
posted by j.s.f. at 9:40 AM PST - 12 comments

You win You lose

Do contest winners lose money because of taxes? [more inside]
posted by gearspring at 9:36 AM PST - 22 comments

the smooth mouse buttons syndrome

I noticed that as times goes by, computer mice (and other plastic items) get used by skin friction. I notice my mice have "smooth" areas on their buttons that obviously seem to be there because of use. Is there a way to prevent that? [more inside]
posted by a007r at 9:29 AM PST - 6 comments

how does the US supreme court decide which cases it will hear?

how does the US supreme court decide which cases it will hear and others it will not hear? it all seems rather arbitrary.
posted by brandz at 7:29 AM PST - 17 comments

Is the state capitol spelled "capitol" or "capital"?

Is the state capitol spelled "capitol" or "capital"? [more inside]
posted by destro at 6:38 AM PST - 28 comments

The best kitchen counter material for our new kitchen

We're trying to figure out the best kitchen counter material for our new kitchen. I know there are lots of great options, but we've narrowed our needs/wants down to a few important ones and have a shortlist we can't get past too easily, so are looking for some insight. [more inside]
posted by iTristan at 5:43 AM PST - 22 comments

How do NFL teams perform against the spread?

I am trying to find data on NFL games... [more inside]
posted by Jesco at 5:41 AM PST - 5 comments

Heal your Headache?

Preventing Migraines - Anyone had any success with the program described in Heal your Headache by David Buchholz? [more inside]
posted by egk at 4:13 AM PST - 8 comments

Localised Social Networking script

I'm looking to set up a small contact database/social networking site like Friends Reunited, but just for people who went to my college. It would be hosted on my Apache/MySQL/PHP site. Is there a php script that can do this?
posted by wibbler at 2:15 AM PST - 5 comments

DressmeFilter

Dressing professionally in a junior, bureaucratic position. [more inside]
posted by jimmythefish at 1:12 AM PST - 16 comments

April 29

How can I stop biting my lip so much?

How can I stop biting my lip so much? [more inside]
posted by JPigford at 8:45 PM PST - 12 comments

How bad is student loan debt?

Should I drop out of school? [more inside]
posted by jennyjenny at 8:08 PM PST - 23 comments

WebIRA

Managing my IRAs online? [more inside]
posted by ikkyu2 at 7:32 PM PST - 7 comments

Training for the Online onslaught?

Now that all the major magazines are deciding to invest heavily in the "online" business, I'm trying to figure how what skills/software one might need. I've heard the combination of Flash, Final Cut Pro, and good design skills would be a start. What would you add to that? I'm a photographer/imaging specialist now. Thanks.
posted by rotten57 at 5:17 PM PST - 5 comments

powdered apple cider recipe?

Recipe for powdered apple cider mix? [more inside]
posted by pudders at 5:04 PM PST - 6 comments

Short Hiking Trips in Seattle area

I will be in Seattle in mid-August and would like recommendations for short (2-3) hiking trips that are accessible by public transit. Or by car (no more than 45 minutes from downtown). Thanks,
posted by quintno at 5:00 PM PST - 11 comments

How best to secure a kiosk monitor

Best choice for securing a monitor in a kiosk setting... [more inside]
posted by O9scar at 4:36 PM PST - 1 comment

What should I look for in a manual push mower?

I'm in the market for a reel mower. What features should I be looking for? Any recommendations on models? [more inside]
posted by dw at 4:26 PM PST - 16 comments

Damn RAID-0 Array

My RAID-0 died, can I get the data back? [more inside]
posted by SweetJesus at 4:26 PM PST - 7 comments

How to clean tubular skylights?

Tubular skylights -- how to clean? Just bought a house with solar tube skylights and dirt has collected on the bottom glass (diffuser). Does the bottom diffuser pop off for cleaning?
posted by nancoix at 4:14 PM PST - 2 comments

How to create a parallel text!

Help me find a piece of software that makes it easy to create parallel texts. [more inside]
posted by anjamu at 3:37 PM PST - 6 comments

Why do some people find the smell of gasoline pleasant?

Why do some people find the smell of gasoline pleasant?
posted by jeremias at 2:41 PM PST - 35 comments

Can I setup a program in OSX to only run at login on a specific day of the week?

Can I setup a program in OSX to only run at login on a specific day of the week? [more inside]
posted by Chuck Cheeze at 2:35 PM PST - 12 comments

Caveats of doing a mass e-mail

I want to send a large number of E-mails (like 500) to my customers. This isn't spam; they have definitely opted in and know me personally. I'd like to know if there is anything that might cause a problem here . . . [more inside]
posted by chef_boyardee at 2:08 PM PST - 10 comments

Who coined "Google effect?"

Who coined the term "Google effect" and what was its original meaning?
posted by pessoa at 1:34 PM PST - 11 comments

How to fade or even out a real tan.

I tan super easily, I spent the afternoon in the sun. Now I have a farmer tan. I need to wear a sleeveless dress next weekend - how do I even out the tan lines in a safe way? [more inside]
posted by echo0720 at 1:22 PM PST - 11 comments

Is there only one site like the Internet Archive?

I'm looking for an old version of a flash site that has been pulled down. It isn't on the Internet Archive and google cache search doesn't fish it up. Are there any other sites out there like the Internet Archive?
posted by mirileh at 1:11 PM PST - 1 comment

Hope me rid myself of “stuff.”

In about a week, We’ll be having a rather large moving sale/yard sale. I’d like to beseech the hive-mind for tips and tricks for eliminating a large amount of now unnecessary items quickly. [more inside]
posted by ktrey at 1:10 PM PST - 13 comments

Photographic effect

I love this photograph (I don't remember where I found it, unfortunately). How would I go about taking similar photos with a 35mm and/or digital camera? What kind of lense/lighting/setup would have been used for something like this? Is there a name for this kind of effect? Is there a good way to duplicate this effect in digital post-processing?
posted by devilsbrigade at 12:48 PM PST - 22 comments

How to best dry out a sopping wet book?

What's the best method for drying out wet books? [more inside]
posted by irregardless at 12:09 PM PST - 6 comments

Name of this split-screen movie?

What is the name of this movie containing split screens? [more inside]
posted by shortfuse at 12:06 PM PST - 11 comments

How to take lots of photos while abroad for a long trip

What is the best way to take lots of pictures while travelling in Europe without bringing a laptop to store them? [more inside]
posted by PercussivePaul at 11:27 AM PST - 26 comments

Rent-a-couch: Smart or sketchy?

Does anyone have any experiences with and/or recommendations for renting furniture, ideally in the Washington DC area? [more inside]
posted by walla at 11:22 AM PST - 3 comments

Prozac. Is it making me "average"?

I'm on Prozac. It is really working but is it making me into a C grade student who enjoys life, is generally well liked and prefers the simple pleasures to deep analytical thought? [more inside]
posted by zaebiz at 10:25 AM PST - 20 comments

"Linking" cells in Word

How do I link tables in the same document in such a way that, when I change the text in a cell in the first table, the new text also appears in the same cell in (let's say) the other 3 tables. [more inside]
posted by zephyrbill at 10:24 AM PST - 7 comments

DVD Commentary to MP3. Painlessly? On a Windows PC?

Last September, someone asked about converting dvd commentaries to mp3 on a mac. I wondered if anyone knew of a method using a Windows PC (preferably freeware)?
posted by feelinglistless at 9:05 AM PST - 4 comments

I've got (no idea how to get) a ticket to ride

I'm heading off to China in August to do some volunteer work in a rural area near Xi’an. Can anyone help me work out how to get there and what to do once the project is over? [more inside]
posted by boosh at 8:57 AM PST - 7 comments

Free Font equivalents, or legal ways to use expensive fonts?

FontFilter: Is it OK to distribute a "paid" font, in order for visitors to properly view a (small, personal) website? [more inside]
posted by jozxyqk at 8:44 AM PST - 25 comments

Summarizing a set of expressions on a TI-83 Plus

How do I easily summarize a set of expressions on my Texas TI-83 Plus calculator? [more inside]
posted by cheerleaders_to_your_funeral at 6:44 AM PST - 8 comments

What's this room from BSG and 4400?

Can you identify this conference room from Battlestar Galactica and The 4400? [more inside]
posted by nervestaple at 6:17 AM PST - 6 comments

Blacked out web sites for Day Without Immigrants?

Are there any web sites participating in the Day Without Immigrants? [more inside]
posted by Mo Nickels at 5:23 AM PST - 1 comment

How do I scan a full color business card to maintain the colors

I've recently been given the task of scanning full color business cards to recreate them with changes. What is the best way to scan the cards to maintain the color of the cards. These cards are to be reprinted and have to be saved in CMYK mode and they should ideally be as sharp as the original. I have no way of getting the original artwork
posted by aisleofview at 3:41 AM PST - 12 comments

Any other loners out there?

Should I go to Amsterdam by myself? Do you have experience traveling by yourself? What do I need to know to prepare for this trip? [more inside]
posted by Packy_1962 at 2:45 AM PST - 27 comments

The lost art of megaphone awesomeness

I would like to locate video or audio for sale of those crazy megaphone crooners...the originals, not modern-day imitations. [more inside]
posted by evariste at 12:15 AM PST - 33 comments

April 28

What is on your USB memory stick?

What *information* do you keep on your USB memory stick? Other questions ask about applications - I'm more interested in the data that you find it useful to carry everywhere. todo lists? contact information? Bank account numbers?
posted by cornflake at 10:44 PM PST - 30 comments

When were refurbished 4-gen iPods sold?

I'd like to know when Apple began selling 4-gen iPod with color. If it's any help, the model number for this iPod is FA079LL/A . Unfortunately, I don't even know how to start looking for this answer. Any help is appreciated.
posted by Bizurke at 10:40 PM PST - 11 comments

How do I upload locally stored podcasts to my iPod?

How can upload podcasts stored locally on my computer into my new iPod -- so that the iPod recognizes them as "podcasts" and doesn't mix'em with the music? [more inside]
posted by RavinDave at 10:34 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me not get 'taken for a ride' when I go see a mechanic soon.

There is a piece of lose plastic hanging down near the passenger side tire of my girlfriends car. Need some advice on what it is and how much it may cost to fix. [photos inside] [more inside]
posted by Effigy2000 at 9:53 PM PST - 8 comments

Cryptic Bumper Stickers

Two cryptic bumper stickers spotted separately in Chicago, do you know what they mean? (1) "You Will Be Safe." (2) "Maroon Life -- a Life of Resistance." [more inside]
posted by Mid at 9:06 PM PST - 23 comments

best laserjet printer?

What is the best postscript monochrome printer for the mac? [more inside]
posted by asavage at 8:45 PM PST - 9 comments

A really simple Excel question, except for someone like me

MS Excel question. [more inside]
posted by Mr. Justice at 6:46 PM PST - 6 comments

Sightseeing on I-10

Sights to see along I-10? [more inside]
posted by tkolar at 6:30 PM PST - 23 comments

I need Pachinko music.

Where can I find pachinko music? [more inside]
posted by jtron at 5:23 PM PST - 16 comments

Is an online doctorate feasible?

Is it feasible or as valuable to get a doctorate online? [more inside]
posted by UncleHornHead at 5:14 PM PST - 14 comments

Shed some light?

Help me replace the driver's side headlight on my 1996 Toyota Corolla! [more inside]
posted by brina at 5:09 PM PST - 10 comments

Constructing an attractive cat tree?

Catfilter - I'm looking into constructing a cat tree (well, a scratching tree) and I wonder if there are any secret recipe to make my cat scratch the tree only (Indoor cat, scratching walls since 1994). [more inside]
posted by Bio11 at 4:56 PM PST - 13 comments

Help with child support question.

A friend of mine has some questions about child support possibly owed to him. [more inside]
posted by matkline at 4:37 PM PST - 5 comments

California hiking references like bahiker.com?

I love Bay Area Hiker (that's San Francisco Bay) — do you know of any great hiking sites for other regions of California? [more inside]
posted by DakotaPaul at 4:37 PM PST - 9 comments

Social stigma in rich people's housing

Will a child face social stigma for living in a condo? [more inside]
posted by acoutu at 4:06 PM PST - 35 comments

Persian Gulf Book

Best one volume history of the persian gulf? Well written preferred over up to date.
posted by shothotbot at 3:34 PM PST - 4 comments

Funny videos

Friday fun. Any recommendations for funny/bizarre movies and videos (Google/YouTube/etc)? Stuff like this bad Finnish music video, the supercheese Apache music video, the heartwarming version of the Shining, the bizarre GNAA thing, and even the Star Wars Gangsta Rap (if it weren't so old by now). Satires and parodies are a plus. Also welcome: good forums that recommend the cream of the crop, without the Farkish boobies/HampsterDance/Jethro Puts Firecrackers in the Gas Tank -type suggestions.
posted by zek at 3:07 PM PST - 12 comments

Songs About Autism?

Anybody know some good songs about autism, other than 'Transformer Man?' (Inspired by this question in the Neil Young 'Living With War' thread.)
posted by Fuzzy Monster at 3:05 PM PST - 9 comments

What was I eating?

What sweet was I eating when I studied in Nepal? [more inside]
posted by anonymous78 at 3:04 PM PST - 6 comments

Where to buy inexpensive but quality sunglasses?

Where can I purchase stylish well constructed sunglasses, without paying extreme designer prices? [more inside]
posted by JFitzpatrick at 2:39 PM PST - 20 comments

How to create a skullcap of hair

I've just started regularly attending Brazilian jujitsu. Please help me find the perfect hairstyle so my locks of love don't become locks of I-am-totally-going-to-choke-you-to-death-with-your-own-braid! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:31 PM PST - 16 comments

What to get for a candy fiend.

Birthday gift for someone who really, really likes candy/ [more inside]
posted by TunnelArmr at 1:58 PM PST - 33 comments

How do I conduct a good telephone interview?

How do I conduct a good telephone interview? [more inside]
posted by jefgodesky at 1:48 PM PST - 11 comments

Lazy Man's Matrix

3dFilter: I'm interested in making a short 3d animation of a Martial Arts form (or kata). Not really sure how I'd do this. [more inside]
posted by slactoid at 1:45 PM PST - 7 comments

Best firewire audio interface for under a grand?

I'm looking to set up a small recording studio for use in an educational setting. I'm leaning towards a firewire interface into a PC. I have mics/mixers/monitors/everything I need except for a way to get the audio into the PC. [more inside]
posted by davey_darling at 1:00 PM PST - 10 comments

Hopefully this question isn't too crass of me to ask...

1 month chinese baby celebration question. [more inside]
posted by eurasian at 12:59 PM PST - 7 comments

Are there any worthwhile printers with built-in wi-fi yet?

Are there any worthwhile printers with built-in wi-fi yet? [more inside]
posted by stleric at 12:57 PM PST - 10 comments

Real Estate Offer Algorithm?

What offer should I make for a new downtown Palm Beach, Florida condo asking $295,000? [more inside]
posted by travis vocino at 11:51 AM PST - 18 comments

The Great War is on but I hope ours is over.

When I was a kid, I loved Maud Hart Lovelace's Betsy, Tacy, and Tib books. What's similar? [more inside]
posted by booksandlibretti at 11:51 AM PST - 19 comments

Anti- Net Neutrality Overseas?

I am doing research for a paper and need to understand whethere or not there is an anti-net neutrality movement (most likely led by the telcos) in Europe and Asia like there is here in the US. Anyone heard anything? Cannot find anything on Google...
posted by psususe at 11:44 AM PST - 3 comments

How much money do corporations spend on system administration?

I'm trying to find studies or reports on the cost of corporate IT spending (specifically system administration) and expectations on how much it will grow in the future (say 10 years time). Any ideas on where to look or specific keywords to search for?
posted by mutantdisco! at 11:32 AM PST - 3 comments

squeezing audio from a video podcast

Is there a way to play the audio from video podcasts on my iPod? [more inside]
posted by GrumpyMonkey at 11:23 AM PST - 6 comments

Do you have experience jobseeking in the UK Music Industry?

please help me help my girlfriend get a job in the UK music industry [more inside]
posted by snailer at 11:02 AM PST - 5 comments

Clearing up the sound on a low quality avi recorded with a Casio EX-Z57?

Clearing up the sound on a low quality avi recorded with a Casio EX-Z57? [more inside]
posted by nthdegx at 10:40 AM PST - 8 comments

What would happen with sanctions against America?

What would be the short and long term results of economic sanctions against America? [more inside]
posted by jon_kill at 10:26 AM PST - 69 comments

Where does "for those of you following along at home" come from?

What's the origin of the phrase "For those of you [playing/following/scoring] along at home?" [more inside]
posted by AgentRocket at 10:14 AM PST - 23 comments

Men's Summer Wardrobe

Help me develop my summer wardrobe [more inside]
posted by 1024x768 at 9:40 AM PST - 21 comments

You Dont Know You Know

Help me stop staying "you know" when I am having professional conversations with clients. [more inside]
posted by Xurando at 9:24 AM PST - 28 comments

Just how dismal is this science?

Do you have any experience in Economics? [more inside]
posted by COBRA! at 9:01 AM PST - 24 comments

Why does Wyoming have the cheapest gas right now?

Why is Wyoming the cheapest US state for gas right now and why does this map of gas prices look strangely similar to the 2004 voting maps? [more inside]
posted by p3t3 at 8:51 AM PST - 22 comments

What is the etymology of the phrase "to shoot the shit?"

What is the origin of the phrase "to shoot the shit?"
posted by jrb223 at 8:41 AM PST - 7 comments

Why doesn't my dog eat cat kill?

Why does my bulldog ignore dead critters in the house? [more inside]
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 8:35 AM PST - 10 comments

Tournament Bracket Methodology

Is there a standard or generally accepted methodology for determining the optimal number of byes needed, and in which round they should occur, in a single-elimination tournament? [more inside]
posted by dafair at 8:06 AM PST - 13 comments

Help Menu Quality: Sub-Optimal?

Is it just me, or do Help menus typically suck? Why do they suck so badly? [more inside]
posted by lisaj32 at 8:00 AM PST - 28 comments

My iPod is channeling the spirit of Bruce Haack

Yesterday, I decided to purchase an iTrip nano to use on my commute to the office I'm contracting at. I'm aware of the fact that, as an FM transmitter, there is going to be some static -- especially in a city such as Dallas. This, however, seems insane! [more inside]
posted by kaseijin at 7:34 AM PST - 27 comments

What's a good panel discussion topic for college business students?

Help me come up with a topic for a panel discussion. [more inside]
posted by archimago at 7:28 AM PST - 9 comments

Store warranty - waste or want?

How worthwhile is buying an extended warranty for a Plasma TV when it doesn't cover things that might actually happen, like burn-in or "accident". Are they prone to outright failure much? [more inside]
posted by FreezBoy at 7:11 AM PST - 14 comments

I am a visitor in my own city.

Tell me about my town. [more inside]
posted by stormygrey at 7:09 AM PST - 19 comments

Installation intro, not really an intro, but needing a short name.

What should the first tab for online product installation instructions be named, if that tab presents an intro solely to the instructions, but is not an intro to the overall product demo? Therefore the word "intro" cannot be used. [more inside]
posted by Blue Buddha at 6:56 AM PST - 10 comments

Where can I find this Mayor Frank Rizzo quote?

I'm looking for a quote from former Philadelphia mayor Frank Rizzo, and my google-fu is failing me. Any suggestions where I might find the quote? [more inside]
posted by Fat Guy at 6:40 AM PST - 8 comments

deadbeat dad off scott free?

What are the legal repercussions for a deadbeat father not paying his child support? [more inside]
posted by jcruden at 6:40 AM PST - 22 comments

How can I get a free shot on Factiva / Lexis Nexis?

Cheapskate filter: need to do a one-off Factiva (or maybe Lexis Nexis) search in the UK, but don't have a subscription. [more inside]
posted by bifter at 4:04 AM PST - 9 comments

What a gaijin needs for FujiRock '06!

Gaijin going to FujiRock Festival, what can I expect??? [more inside]
posted by nintendo at 3:55 AM PST - 1 comment

Help me leech all of Keith and Girl!

How can I download all episodes of a podcast in iTunes without clicking on each individual "Get" link? [more inside]
posted by antifuse at 3:40 AM PST - 14 comments

Find me a bull-free blog to read

Do you know of any blogs which keep track of art and culture with a no-B.S. approach? Basically, something which takes pokes at pseudointellectual stuff and the manhandling of language by people who should be intelligent enough to know better (kind of like Private Eye's "Psueds Corner" in blog form).
posted by tommorris at 2:54 AM PST - 3 comments

What's the name of this French novel?

What's the name of this French novel (and who wrote it)? [more inside]
posted by missed at 2:09 AM PST - 6 comments

April 27

Kid Rock

What song(s) did Kid Rock sing at the 2004 Superbowl?
posted by stockaholic at 9:25 PM PST - 2 comments

OTCBB stock: broker/issuance/tax advice

I'm about to be eligible to exercise stock options on a stock traded on the Over The Counter Bulletin Board (OTC). Advice on getting my university to issue them to me, exercising (tax) and brokers (sale) please. [more inside]
posted by lalochezia at 8:08 PM PST - 23 comments

How do you track legislation without bill numbers?

How do you track U.S. federal legislation for which bill numbers -- either of the house record (H.R.) or Senate (S.) variety -- have not yet been assigned? [more inside]
posted by shivohum at 8:07 PM PST - 7 comments

Why is this such a sinister medium?

Can you identify the material this breakup letter is written on? [more inside]
posted by symphonik at 8:02 PM PST - 39 comments

Can lost keys come home?

Is there a service that provides a coded tag for my key ring that allows anyone to drop found keys into a mailbox so they get forwarded back to me? I had a tag like this, but upon checking, the company no longer exists. D'oh! I need a replacement.
posted by garbo at 6:57 PM PST - 17 comments

Embarrassing pants!

Why do my pants always look like I'm "pitching a tent" when I sit down? Even though I'm not? [more inside]
posted by fearandloathing at 6:24 PM PST - 43 comments

Gas Money

Weekend job for 17 year old in Los Angeles? Preferably in the San Fernando Valley. Or suggestions on other ways to get money? Like getting ads put on my car? [more inside]
posted by joshuak at 6:22 PM PST - 25 comments

Soup spoon etiquette

Soup spoon etiquette question: where should one rest it in between bites? [more inside]
posted by rorycberger at 4:58 PM PST - 21 comments

no wonder it's called the gimp

GIMPfilter: Why does the gimp have "floating selections"? And why doesn't it have a simple move tool? [more inside]
posted by beerbajay at 4:43 PM PST - 9 comments

How do I make Sauerkraut?

Have cabbage. Need help! [more inside]
posted by goalyeehah at 4:42 PM PST - 8 comments

Inspire Me With Short Videos!!!

I'm looking for short (under 5 minutes), fast paced, promotional trailers to get my juices flowing. I have an idea of what I want to do but I'm not completely in love with it... [more inside]
posted by hummercash at 4:25 PM PST - 8 comments

Encyclopedia readers unite

Is/was it normal to read Encyclopedia(s) as a child? [more inside]
posted by shoepal at 4:21 PM PST - 97 comments

is it hot in here?

unlike this previous query, i'm not only hot in bed, i'm hot everywhere, all the time. how can i cool myself down? [more inside]
posted by garfy3 at 4:04 PM PST - 7 comments

Singing about blinging

I'm looking for songs that sparkle! (or that shine, or twinkle, or make you think bright and happy thoughts.) [more inside]
posted by TG_Plackenfatz at 3:50 PM PST - 52 comments

How to speed-up Windows XP boot-up?

What's exactly happening during the various stages of Windows XP's boot-up process, and how can I speed it up? [more inside]
posted by Ekim Neems at 3:41 PM PST - 10 comments

Dental sedation anxiety.

Help me allay my specific dental fear: sedation. [more inside]
posted by ITheCosmos at 2:34 PM PST - 26 comments

Cheap and leisurely cross-country travel?

Is there such a thing as a Greyhound bus pass 'designed for independent travellers who want to get the most out of their travels in this great country' - similar to a 'Travel Oz Pass,' but for America? [more inside]
posted by myodometer at 2:30 PM PST - 14 comments

s/Yahoo/Google/g

I'm moving a fairly large mailing list from Yahoo groups to Google groups. I'm wondering if there is a nice way to move the large message archive. I have all the messages on my machine in eml/txt/mbox format. How can I get all these messages over to Google Groups? My best idea is to write a script that parses the From field and message body from the email, then masquerades as that user to send the message to the google groups address, but I was wondering if someone can think of something better.
posted by lpctstr; at 2:17 PM PST - 5 comments

Where can I get good coffee in Boston?

Where can I get good coffee in the Boston area? [more inside]
posted by gregb1007 at 1:50 PM PST - 25 comments

How to identifying blank images?

How can I quickly identify blank JPG images from a set of thousands? [more inside]
posted by danblaker at 1:48 PM PST - 12 comments

MySQL Normalization Question

DBAs: Is this a case where I *should not* normalize my database? (PHP/MySQL 4.0.24 question). Long explanation of the situation inside. [more inside]
posted by fishfucker at 1:41 PM PST - 25 comments

How to get NFL draft day text message updates.

Help me get text message alert updates for the NFL draft this weekend. [more inside]
posted by samh23 at 1:29 PM PST - 3 comments

arrgghhh

Just got fired from my teaching gig... need directions to somewhere cool. [more inside]
posted by trinarian at 1:01 PM PST - 12 comments

New job or vacation? Can I have both?

So I'm looking for a new job but I'm also currently planning a vacation in mid-June. Will the vacation affect my chances for an opportunity which requires my immediate availability? [more inside]
posted by pooya at 12:52 PM PST - 7 comments

Who loses when airlines win?

How does an airline such as Southwest Airlines benefit from hedging it's fuel usage or by using futures contracts? [more inside]
posted by feloniousmonk at 12:44 PM PST - 7 comments

War Films From The "Losing" Side

I was reading reviews of movies about the US war in Vietnam, and found myself wondering how to track down Vietnamese films about the same period. Then I extended the question. [more inside]
posted by scrump at 12:36 PM PST - 20 comments

Knowledgeable meat cutter, needs I.

Where can I find a quality butcher? [more inside]
posted by kid_twist at 12:19 PM PST - 4 comments

Interesting Las Vegas neighborhoods?

Are there any interesting neighborhoods, off the Strip, to explore in Las Vegas? I'm thinking arty shops, interesting cafes, etc. [more inside]
posted by Joleta at 11:38 AM PST - 7 comments

Finding a grave

How do you find a grave? [more inside]
posted by Navek Rednam at 11:38 AM PST - 7 comments

What is the best free web telephone directory?

What is the best free search on the web for looking up telephone numbers? [more inside]
posted by anastasia at 11:19 AM PST - 16 comments

I'd actually like to clean the carpet.

I need a small carpet cleaner - any suggestions? I only need it for stains on an (old) apartment carpet, including cat urine stains. I don't want something that breaks the bank, and I'm not expecting a miracle-worker - I just want to do what I can to keep from getting my security deposit dinged. [more inside]
posted by bibbit at 11:14 AM PST - 19 comments

Help me find a quote talking about 'the ones we love being on loan to us'

Help me find a quote talking about 'the ones we love being on loan to us'. [more inside]
posted by rmm at 11:09 AM PST - 6 comments

How to change the number of times a Treo rings.

Anyone know how to change how many times a Verizon (so CDMA, not GSM) Treo 650 rings before it goes to voicemail? [more inside]
posted by EnormousTalkingOnion at 10:06 AM PST - 10 comments

The first cut is the deepest. . .

I have a .wmv recording that I would like to edit. I just need to clip off the first 45 seconds and last 30 seconds. How can I do that?
posted by chicken nuglet at 10:01 AM PST - 7 comments

Linguistics: How do I get my foreign diction more specific than IPA?

LinguisticsFilter: There are a lot of resources explaining how to transcribe a language into IPA, but I don't have any that get into the nitty gritty of how one language pronounces a given consonant compared to another. Are there good resources on this front? Are there resources on how to speak in various foreign accents? [more inside]
posted by sirion at 9:56 AM PST - 8 comments

New Computer Buying Guide

Help me spend every cent of my new job’s computer set-up budget. [more inside]
posted by bove at 9:24 AM PST - 42 comments

Colorado vacation with a one year old

I'm in the very early stages of planning a family vacation to Colorado. We have an energetic one-year-old. We haven't been to Colorado before, so I am looking for ideas/suggestions on where to stay, what to do, and general suggestions on trying to have a somewhat relaxing vacation with a little one. [more inside]
posted by Ostara at 9:22 AM PST - 13 comments

Which Russian film poster?

While searching the usual poster sites to fill my bare walls, I came across this striking image, which is identified only as "Russian Film Poster". Can anyone identify the film? I'd like to see the movie before I go slapping its poster up on my wall.
posted by jpoulos at 9:08 AM PST - 6 comments

I Before E, origin of Thee?

I before E except after C We all learned the rule, but where did it come from? [more inside]
posted by Chrischris at 9:06 AM PST - 15 comments

What should my volleyball team be named?

Help me name my (soon-to-be-ex, I fervently hope) volleyball team. [more inside]
posted by orange swan at 8:46 AM PST - 23 comments

Help us leave Texas behind

Help my wife and I find a city to live in. We have an opportunity to spend three or four days in another city to get the feel of it and would like recommendations on where we should go. [more inside]
posted by yangwar at 8:29 AM PST - 24 comments

How old is too old to father?

Was your father 45+ when you were born? Were your own children born later in your life? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:22 AM PST - 34 comments

Insecurity in a relationship

How do I learn to overcome (better: eliminate) deep-seated insecurity in a relationship? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:22 AM PST - 18 comments

Takeout Tamales in Portland?

Are there good takeout tamales in Portland somewhere? Where? [more inside]
posted by pdb at 8:13 AM PST - 14 comments

What happens to the value of Put Options if the underlying stock goes bankrupt?

Speculating Filter: What happens to the value of a Put Option if the underlying stock halts trading and/or goes bankrupt? [more inside]
posted by de void at 7:52 AM PST - 9 comments

Lost RAID controller -- EOTW?

Some RAID questions about what happens if you lose not a disk but the controller. [more inside]
posted by jfuller at 7:26 AM PST - 11 comments

Drink it fast, before it turns to sludge

Why is freshly brewed coffee so much better than coffee that's been sitting around for awhile? [more inside]
posted by junkbox at 7:15 AM PST - 32 comments

Where can I buy a reliable Al Powerbook AC adapter?

My Aluminium Powerbook G4's AC adapter is on its last legs. I'll need a new one soon and I don't want to fork out >$100 for an official Apple replacement. Where can I buy a durable, affordable replacement? [more inside]
posted by teem at 6:08 AM PST - 8 comments

Indentify this play about Alzheimers

Anyone know the name of a UK television play (1980s?) about people with Alzheimers, starring real patients and actors playing the patients' younger selves. Probably with period music.
posted by Pericles at 5:53 AM PST - 4 comments

English spelling article

I'm looking for a jokey piece on the Internet which is a treatise on how to reform English which gradually changes into German as you read. [more inside]
posted by dydecker at 5:45 AM PST - 7 comments

Help me plan out a strange segment in a weekly newspaper.

Help me plan out a strange segment in a weekly newspaper. [more inside]
posted by stokast at 5:11 AM PST - 8 comments

Where's the New York bound 117?

Where do I catch the New York bound NJTransit bus at Newark Airport? [more inside]
posted by saladin at 4:53 AM PST - 10 comments

Is there a perfect OSX web browser out there for me?

I'm trying to find a (stable) OSX web browser that... A) allows you to select text and right-click to search for that text in Google, AND B) displays bookmarks in the bookmarks toolbar as favicons (not just plain text buttons). [more inside]
posted by bruceyeah at 3:26 AM PST - 12 comments

Airport Extreme Acer Problem

Airport Extreme can't connect with Acer can connect with compaq. [more inside]
posted by priorpark17 at 3:01 AM PST - 2 comments

Where should we live?

DC-FILTER: Where should a group of Southern California-native 20somethings live in the Washington DC area? [more inside]
posted by ThFullEffect at 1:52 AM PST - 25 comments

CPM?

How much does Internet advertising cost? I'm looking to sell some stuff online by advertising on sites like metafilter (through Indiclick, I guess) fark, collagehumor, ebaumsworld, &c. I'm just wondering how much that would cost, and what kind of clickthrough I could expect to get assuming I had a totally sweet ad for something people who visit those sites would be likely to buy. [more inside]
posted by Paris Hilton at 1:08 AM PST - 6 comments

Why does it look so crap?

Why does my the second monitor attached to my 20" iMac duocore produce such lousy colour? [more inside]
posted by I, Credulous at 12:59 AM PST - 8 comments

April 26

Venus words

In English, we have words like mercurial, martial, jovial, and saturnine... [more inside]
posted by wanderingmind at 11:09 PM PST - 22 comments

Silly Science Movies

What (bad) movies about science and nature have you seen? [more inside]
posted by kechi at 9:25 PM PST - 31 comments

Dadaist Organic Urban Idealism?

I'm having trouble tracking down information about a movement in Dada-ist Art I heard about a few years ago. From what I remember Dadaist idealism inspired a group of artists to contemplate the organic development of urban environments. Art, using the defined structure of the city, to reflect the chaotic order which arises from nature. Did this century old movement exist or has my brain made it up?
posted by 0bvious at 9:14 PM PST - 10 comments

Name that sign...

dictionary filter: Is there a word for the universal "no" sign, that circle with the line through it? You know, the red one?
posted by provocateur at 9:03 PM PST - 17 comments

Yeah theres this song called yellow submarine and they left ringo's singing on it!!11 lol

Songs with mistakes/bloopers left in? [more inside]
posted by RokkitNite at 8:57 PM PST - 110 comments

Nowhere to run...

Marathon Filter: Help me locate a good marathon to run... [more inside]
posted by iurodivii at 8:54 PM PST - 13 comments

Okinawa on ¥5750 a day

Things to do in Okinawa/Japan? [more inside]
posted by logicpunk at 8:14 PM PST - 8 comments

So socrates and crito walked in to a jail...

"Whatever inconvicence ensue, nothing is to be preferred before justice. These things I hear like pipes and drums whose sound make me deaf to everything you say."What book is this from? [more inside]
posted by bigmusic at 8:10 PM PST - 12 comments

Help my buddy stay healthy

I need to help a friend find free/cheap legal aid for an employment/ADA situation in Los Angeles. [more inside]
posted by kamikazegopher at 7:59 PM PST - 2 comments

Find these free weights.

Help me find this particular brand of square "free weights." [more inside]
posted by mykescipark at 7:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Assassin bug or squash bug? ...Or something else?

Garden pest/beneficial id needed of these little nymphs - squash bug or assassin bug? Or something else? Lots of pictures inside. [more inside]
posted by mojabunni at 7:07 PM PST - 11 comments

My passport has been around

I'm getting ready to travel to South America. A couple of years ago, I washed my passport in a washing machine. It looks beat up, but all the pieces are there. Is there the possibility that I could be denied entry? How quickly could I get a new one if needed? Picture inside. [more inside]
posted by billysumday at 6:56 PM PST - 19 comments

stinky workplace

Do some people not smell body odour? Is there a polite way of asking people to wear deodorant? [more inside]
posted by wilful at 6:33 PM PST - 39 comments

WTPh?

What is this cryptic image? [more inside]
posted by maggieb at 6:07 PM PST - 17 comments

What's good opera music for a funeral?

I'd like some recommendations for opera music to be played at a funeral. [more inside]
posted by Rock Steady at 5:24 PM PST - 24 comments

What files can be burned to a DivX disc?

I just got a DivX-capable DVD player. Is there some way of telling (on OS X) what DivX/XVid files can be burned directly to a DivX disc without requiring conversion? [more inside]
posted by tweebiscuit at 5:09 PM PST - 15 comments

Villa in Tuscany

7 friends and I will be traveling to Tuscany in mid-June and are looking for accommodations. We would prefer to stay in a villa as opposed to a hotel. Has anyone spent considerable time in Tuscany who can recommend a place to stay. Price is not really a concern at this point.
posted by jasondigitized at 4:50 PM PST - 8 comments

How to de-stench and de-stain non-white t-shirts?

Is there any way to get rid of pit stains and residual smells on non-white t-shirts? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:24 PM PST - 17 comments

I hereby authorize my prospective employer to discriminate

How, under Equal Employment Opportunity, can a prospective employer ask you to sign a HIPAA waiver? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:23 PM PST - 8 comments

Should I get three more letters?

Should a molecular biology PhD student, interested in a career as a biotechnology analyst bother taking the CFA exams? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:22 PM PST - 4 comments

what to order with a lobster dinner

A good lobster dinner wine?
posted by Lisa S at 3:44 PM PST - 14 comments

Replacing a damaged Powerbook Screen yourself?

Just recently my friend dropped his beloved 17" Powerbook G4, while the end result was pretty bad, as in the screen was completely smashed, the rest of the unit is still in good condition. Luckily I have been able to find a replacement screen at a pretty good price, and I am looking to replace/attach it myself. The only trouble is I don't know how hard this will really be. Which is why I am seeking your experience and advice. [more inside]
posted by Sevenupcan at 3:44 PM PST - 8 comments

Loose leaf tea recommendations

I recently discovered loose leaf tea. Can anyone recommend some brands/flavors that they like? [more inside]
posted by supercrayon at 3:38 PM PST - 34 comments

Debunking Magic Gas Pills

Bio Performance Gas Pill: My parents are being lured into selling/using a gas-saving "gas pill" that is marketed via MLM /Pyramid Scheme tactics. My BS-detector is going off. [more inside]
posted by kumazemi at 3:32 PM PST - 31 comments

How do I completely erase my Thunderbird installation on Mac OS?

After installing, uninstalling and reinstalling, there are ghosts of my old (now deleted) IMAP folders. How the heck do I get rid of them? [more inside]
posted by nessahead at 3:14 PM PST - 6 comments

Gaahh! Everything's coming up rosy!

Can I use a red darkroom lightbulb in the nursery at night without harming the baby's vision? [more inside]
posted by landtuna at 2:36 PM PST - 18 comments

Treo Filter: Insurance for my Treo?

Where can I find comprehensive insurance for my Treo, without going through my service provider? [more inside]
posted by mattoly at 2:27 PM PST - 4 comments

Becoming a Bamboo Farmer

Is it possible to make a living as a bamboo farmer? How would I go about this? Leaving NYC might be a first step. After that, other than scaring off the pandas, I am stumped. Where should I go? How much space would I need? What do I do once it gets grown? How can I learn more? And why is this suddenly so fascinating to me?
posted by kingfisher, his musclebound cat at 2:27 PM PST - 11 comments

What do I need to know to live in NYC for the summer?

MovingToNYCFilter: I'm soon to be a college grad, and I'm in the running for a 6-week internship in NYC that may become long-term employment. Please help me figure out what I need to know to live in the big city. [more inside]
posted by Alterscape at 2:17 PM PST - 19 comments

How do I know if my Quest is haunted?

My Nissan Quest is haunted. Or something. Help! [more inside]
posted by kittyloop at 2:14 PM PST - 11 comments

Freelance CAD work.

I am a Design Engineer looking to break into the freelance/contract market. My expertise is using Unigraphics and I am also proficient in solidworks. I was a tool designer and worked closely with one of the major auto makers in the US before I got fed up with office politics and left to go to a much smaller company. [more inside]
posted by 5acres at 2:12 PM PST - 5 comments

new jersey tax vs. new york tax

I live in NYC, I make $60k a year, and I take home about $750 per week, which comes to $39k. This strikes me as ridiculous. Am I not using some deduction that everyone else knows about? Would I pay fewer taxes if I kept my Manhattan job but lived in New Jersey?
posted by bingo at 2:00 PM PST - 40 comments

should i pay it

nyc parking ticket: do i need to pay it if I'm giving my car to my brother in a few weeks and he's taking the car out of state? [more inside]
posted by alkupe at 1:55 PM PST - 7 comments

What PVR program will work with my All-in-Wonder X800?

I've got an ATI All-in-Wonder X800 XT video card. Where can I find a good PVR program that will work with this card? [more inside]
posted by Kraki at 1:39 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me win over the mother through piracy!

Need to burn a DVD from Avi files to impress my boyfriend's mother! Help! [more inside]
posted by yellowbinder at 1:36 PM PST - 12 comments

Why is it more expensive to live in a city?

Why is it more expensive to live in a city? Is it simply supply and demand? Bonus points for relevant references and data.
posted by koenie at 1:04 PM PST - 19 comments

Cell phone customization

Useful sites (or your own hints/tips/tricks) for fiddling with my new cell phone? [more inside]
posted by ObscureReferenceMan at 12:58 PM PST - 2 comments

Guerilla chroma key

DV Film Effects: Techniques & Tips [more inside]
posted by prostyle at 12:30 PM PST - 8 comments

The Adventures of Captain Something in Space Whatever!

Anyone remember the name of this classic arcade game? [more inside]
posted by mzurer at 12:16 PM PST - 10 comments

How loud is the inside of an airplane?

How loud are the passenger cabins of commercial airplanes? [more inside]
posted by werty at 11:56 AM PST - 10 comments

Giant PDF file + Palm = Disaster?

How can I make this TTC transit system map [pdf 1.6mb] Palm TX friendly? [more inside]
posted by onshi at 11:46 AM PST - 12 comments

Looking for freelance computer tech support software

Is there a good piece of software (either for WindowsXP, or web based) specifically used for tracking customers, invoices, and jobs for someone doing freelance computer tech support? [more inside]
posted by nitsuj at 11:24 AM PST - 7 comments

How old is Web 2.0?

How old is Web 2.0?
posted by airguitar at 10:58 AM PST - 19 comments

Printing SNP files in Windows

How can I print multiple MS Access Snapshot files (.SNP) in Windows 2000/XP at the same time? [more inside]
posted by selfnoise at 10:51 AM PST - 1 comment

How to dynamically update webpage

I am designing a homepage, that will be a central navigation point for several blogs that I have. I would like this homepage to display the jpeg photos that accompany my most recent blog posts [more inside]
posted by extrabox at 10:49 AM PST - 4 comments

Questions about gasoline.

All about gasoline. [more inside]
posted by grateful at 10:47 AM PST - 26 comments

dunce in need of an external hard drive

I'm in the market for an external hard drive. I'm running XP on a PC and know nothing about external hard drives except what I'd like it to do. [more inside]
posted by misanthropicsarah at 10:42 AM PST - 9 comments

Can you recommend a men’s tailor in Hong Kong?

Can you recommend a men’s tailor in Hong Kong? [more inside]
posted by dmt at 10:33 AM PST - 2 comments

Can you dig it? (The font, that is)

Calling all font mavens: What is the name of the font used in the "Shaft" logo? [more inside]
posted by cacophony at 10:33 AM PST - 4 comments

Points for a comparison essay between Apollo and Dionysus?

Points for a comparison essay between Apollo and Dionysus? [more inside]
posted by northernsoul at 10:29 AM PST - 6 comments

Chernobyl photographer

I'm looking for the name of a photographer who took up-close photos of the Chernobyl nuclear plant after the explosion in 1986. I believe that he is/was a Russian and probably died due to the radiation he received. [more inside]
posted by Raven13 at 10:29 AM PST - 3 comments

BYOB next time you've got a cold sore, please

What is the lifespan of herpes simplex 1 on a coffee mug? [more inside]
posted by xanthippe at 10:09 AM PST - 9 comments

Seriously, who wants to shell out $350 for a new motherboard?

Has anyone ever used a "lifesaver cable" for their laptop? I found it on this site, but it sounds like it's too good to be true. Can anyone tell me why this would or wouldn't work? [more inside]
posted by denimflavored at 9:28 AM PST - 7 comments

How do I run faster?

How do I train to run faster, over distance? [more inside]
posted by smackfu at 9:27 AM PST - 14 comments

Japanese Blogs?

I want to start reading some Japanese blogs in an effort to improve my grasp of the language. Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by borkingchikapa at 9:15 AM PST - 4 comments

Designer Imposter!

Help me impersonate a graphic designer! I know it’s kind of insane, but as early as this afternoon I may receive the proverbial offer (well, assignment) that I can’t refuse, and I’m wondering if anyone might be able to offer some fake-it-till-you-make-it tips for this sort of project (a short catalogue for a half-dozen or so boutique products). See, the thing is, I'm not a designer, although I have some experience with Quark, Illustrator and Photoshop. I’m most interested in a list of ten or fifteen things that you talented designer folks do over and over again that seem impressive to the uninitiated, but that are simpler than they appear to we of the untrained eyes. Books are also fine, but due to the potential immediacy of this, the shorter the tutorial, the better. [more inside]
posted by Sinner at 9:11 AM PST - 33 comments

digital photot storage for Macs

Where would I put digital photos on a Mac to store them? [more inside]
posted by Postroad at 8:51 AM PST - 12 comments

Help save my beloved iBook!

Help save my laptop! I was using my G4 iBook last night, and suddenly the screen went black. [more inside]
posted by synecdoche at 8:40 AM PST - 10 comments

Digital photo storage management tools?

My company has ~6 departments. Each department takes photos, and then stashes them all over the available network shares, such that they know where any given photo is. What we need is some company-wide means of organizing these assets in an intuitively searchable way. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by everichon at 8:30 AM PST - 8 comments

How can I dress hipper than I do now?

Where can I find or where do I look to find ideas, resources or stores that carry 'hip' business casual clothing? [more inside]
posted by Botunda at 8:13 AM PST - 13 comments

Free electricity!?

I've been living in my apartment since December, and I still haven't received an electric bill from ConEd. It was made clear that we had to sign up to receive power and we did that -- my wife called in, gave them her social security number, address, etc. Still, no bill. The meter man comes by every month and checks the meter. Still, no bill. [more inside]
posted by jeffxl at 7:47 AM PST - 28 comments

For real?

Is this airfare for real? [more inside]
posted by DieHipsterDie at 7:34 AM PST - 42 comments

Help me get photoshop v7 off my laptop

Photoshop Filter: I recently installed Photoshop CS2 to my work laptop. I already had Photoshop v7 installed, now I can't uninstall v7. Any ideas? Inside for more... [more inside]
posted by the_epicurean at 7:28 AM PST - 4 comments

A dreading party that's not dreadful (groan!)

Help me plan a dreadlock-themed party. A very long party. [more inside]
posted by arcticwoman at 7:10 AM PST - 7 comments

Suggestions for a cabin rental in New England this summer?

Summer Vacation - My little family wants to rent a cabin (next to a swimmin' lake) for a week this summer somewhere in the north east of the USA, hopefully for less than $1000, any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by Divine_Wino at 6:53 AM PST - 15 comments

What do I do when a medication changes everything?

If you're taking medication that alters your personality, do you let people know? What kind of pitfalls or issues do you face with this kind of thing? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:43 AM PST - 15 comments

Who's your daddy?

What happens to the kids if my husband's ex dies? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:43 AM PST - 15 comments

Libraries that block innapropriate materials from minors -

Calling all Librarians! My library system is currently proposing a "children's card" - where a parent could effectively block their child's access to "innapropriate" materials. (more inside) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:43 AM PST - 16 comments

Where's the watermark?

Why won't text watermarks in MS Word XP show up as their default color on one single computer at work? [more inside]
posted by educatedslacker at 6:27 AM PST - 4 comments

Dentist Breaking the Law? Need advice

Problem with UK dentist? prescribing drugs without seeing you. Need legal advice. [more inside]
posted by spinko at 6:02 AM PST - 10 comments

sel fou where are you?

When I lived in france they had this delicious seasoning called sel fou. It's sort of like a french adobo. Does anyone know where I can buy it in the U.S. or order it over the internet? [more inside]
posted by milarepa at 5:40 AM PST - 7 comments

Which motorcycle would be best for me?

I'm looking for a motorcycle, help me! [more inside]
posted by Loto at 4:36 AM PST - 25 comments

Where can I find these two short stories?

Help me find these two short stories - one horror and one (possibly) sci-fi. [more inside]
posted by ninazer0 at 4:25 AM PST - 9 comments

Best CMS for user-driven podcasts?

Best CMS for user-driven podcasts? I want to set up a site where users will login and submit podcasts, and then be able to access them by each user's RSS feed, or to add them to category feeds etc. Is there a CMS (Drupal, Joomla, etc) that will facilitate this?
posted by jim.christian at 2:56 AM PST - 7 comments

Spanish Summer Home Market?

How can I learn as much as possible about the Spanish market for vacation homes: construction, project development, brokering sales, etc.? [more inside]
posted by BigBrownBear at 1:44 AM PST - 0 comments

vroom vroom

49cc: 2 stroke or 4 stroke? [more inside]
posted by angrybeaver at 1:34 AM PST - 17 comments

Cheap travel from Hong Kong

Help me figure out the cheapest way to travel around SE Asia and China for two-three weeks at the end of May, based in Hong Kong, leaving from and returning to Osaka. [more inside]
posted by MostHolyPorcine at 12:39 AM PST - 3 comments

Is it fair for me to want to live close (walking distance) to work?

Is it fair for me to want to live close to work? My fiancee (soon to be wife!) and I are thinking about moving to Melbourne (Australia) and the place I want to work at is located in the middle of the city. I've suggested living right in the heart of the city so that I can walk to work, but she's getting upset with neighbours in our current place and would like to live in a house (which implies out in the suburbs)... [more inside]
posted by ranglin at 12:32 AM PST - 34 comments

I hate Visual Basic

MSExcel: how to place data in one cell from an ODBC source based on data in another cell? [more inside]
posted by randomstriker at 12:18 AM PST - 1 comment

April 25

To me or not to me, that is the question.

Can you solve this mixed-up email mystery? [more inside]
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 11:11 PM PST - 19 comments

Good Grad School Blogs

Help me find good blogs (or blog-like sites) about graduate school. [more inside]
posted by that_one_guy at 10:32 PM PST - 15 comments

AC-to-USB can't be so hard!?

Can I use a generic AC-to-USB adapter to charge my MP3 player? [more inside]
posted by epimorph at 9:53 PM PST - 10 comments

Empty desk = nothing to do?

Am I running any sort of risk by keeping my desk at work clean and empty, when every other person in this government office keeps theirs piled to the ceiling? [more inside]
posted by BruceL at 9:48 PM PST - 27 comments

Show me the $$$!!!1!

Fine Art Price Filter: What should I charge for a limited edition digital Art(TM) print? [more inside]
posted by joe_from_accounting at 9:22 PM PST - 7 comments

Looking for good Indian pickles

What is your favorite brand of Indian pickles? And can you order it online? [more inside]
posted by jak68 at 9:07 PM PST - 9 comments

Low-tech exhibit projection at a mock trial

I need some low-tech advice on displaying exhibits at my upcoming mock trial. [more inside]
posted by Saucy Intruder at 9:06 PM PST - 7 comments

How to paint with acrylics?

I want to start painting with acrylics. What are good, inexpensive supplies to get? What are some good resources/websites to learn how to start? [more inside]
posted by petah at 8:52 PM PST - 5 comments

Salt death?

Can you kill a human being by burying him/her in salt (NaCl)? (Or possibly with that silica gel stuff hobbyists use to dry flowers?) [more inside]
posted by limeonaire at 8:39 PM PST - 14 comments

YEARGH!

Gah!Filter: Today I woke up, and there were bugs. Everywhere. [more inside]
posted by Drunken_munky at 8:14 PM PST - 17 comments

How did the Dems become the liberal party?

[AmericanHistoryFilter] How did the Democratic Party go from being the conservative party to being the liberal party? [more inside]
posted by alidarbac at 8:10 PM PST - 22 comments

wedding attire

So... I am attending a wedding on May 6th at 7 pm. It is outdoors, what should I wear? It will not be a "formal" event.
posted by prairiepmb at 8:09 PM PST - 11 comments

Dont want to be a lawyer but I got the degree

Legalfilter: What are some cool/interesting things you can do with a law degree if you don't want to practice law.
posted by Dr_Octavius at 7:59 PM PST - 28 comments

Annoying Calls

Has anyone else been bothered by phone calls requesting you to call Ken Hughes concerning an urgent matter? [more inside]
posted by hockeyman at 7:44 PM PST - 13 comments

Uncommon Midwest road trips?

The SO and I live in Chicago and have taken several road trips over the years. We're up for more, the problem is, we seem to have tapped out all the obvious choices. [more inside]
posted by CMichaelCook at 7:16 PM PST - 31 comments

Workplace presentation to co-worker's kids

Take your kids to workfilter, I'm a victim of the do something well and you're doing it for the rest of your time at the job. Help me with a workplace presentation to kids. (More inside) [more inside]
posted by cmfletcher at 7:06 PM PST - 16 comments

What is a reasonable offer for a new car?

What is a reasonable offer for a new car? [more inside]
posted by benjh at 6:41 PM PST - 39 comments

Best HiFi Magazine?

What are the best hi fi magazine(s) for someone like me? [more inside]
posted by Mean Mr. Bucket at 6:37 PM PST - 13 comments

NYC this weekend

What shouldn't I miss in NYC this Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun? Bonus where are can I find the best/good freshly made corn tortillas? In the city that is.
posted by flummox at 6:21 PM PST - 7 comments

Garlic, anyone?

I am on an eternal quest to make the perfect tomato pasta sauce. Every recipie I've read says to start with a pan and some olive oil and then fry up onions and garlic. I then dump in my tomatoes--I ususally use whole canned tomatoes, chop them up a bit and let them simmer a while, then season, etc. The garlic is what I'm asking about, because I notice if I do this, the garlic will cook for quite a long time and the resultant sauce ain't so garlicky, even if I've added several cloves--it seems I've cooked away much of the flavor. I've tried adding the garlic later on, but that's not quite right either. How do you ensure your pasta sauce is full of garlic goodness?
posted by zardoz at 6:14 PM PST - 25 comments

Leprechauns!?

OddQuestionFilter: Is there a myth surrounding leprechauns where time is supposed to stop when they fall asleep?
posted by arrhn at 5:45 PM PST - 4 comments

News Servers

My ISP will be discontinuing news services at the end of May. They are doing this because Giganews is increasing their fee to my ISP to the point where their news service would be offered at a loss. Who do you use as a news server? I download both text and binaries.
posted by Raybun at 5:31 PM PST - 21 comments

WTHIMCD?

I want a computer utility called "What the hell is my computer doing?" [more inside]
posted by megatherium at 4:41 PM PST - 15 comments

How does one pick stocks?

I'm seeking advice on and a short term investment strategy that won't offend Grandad. [more inside]
posted by godawful at 4:40 PM PST - 41 comments

Thoughts about an Alaskan cruise?

My wife and I want to go on an Alaskan cruise in the latter part of August. We have a couple questions: Is that a good time to go? Next, could we do a week long cruise for under $4000 (airfare to the Northwest included) on a non-sardinish cruise liner? Any thoughts or recommendations would also be appreciated. Thanks!
posted by narebuc at 4:34 PM PST - 20 comments

I'm thinking of buying Olympus EVOLT E-500 8M, what to look for?

I recently found this digital SLR Olympus EVOLT E-500 on sales at costco.com click here It seems a good deal with a complete package. It's very attempting to me since I'd like to move from point and shoot to DSLR. I'm a beginner amateur. I've read and learned about how SLR works, but with so many choices out there on the market, I'm kinda lost. $699 is right on my budget. However, I'm willing to step up a little bit if there is a better choice for the long run and without paying a whole lot more. On the other hand, stepdown is also an option if major/critical functions are not being compromised. With your experience and knowledge, what do you think the pros and cons are for Olympus E-500. Say if i get a Canon, or a Nikon DSLR, what models are comparable to E-500, and what will I gain or lose? I'll appreciate it if you can share your thoughts with me. Many thanks. Olympus EVOLT E-500 8MP $699.99 After Rebate Digital SLR 2.5" 40-150 & 17.5-45mm Lens
posted by dy at 4:06 PM PST - 20 comments

Songs for my listening displeasure.

Help me win a stupid contest with the following vague theme: Worst. Songs. Ever. [more inside]
posted by |n$eCur3 at 3:54 PM PST - 104 comments

How to download files from pc with no USB port (hence, no flash drive access)?

I am trying to transfer a number of scanned family photo files from 2 old pcs which do not have USB ports. Is there any other way to move these files without using a flash drive or internet upload other than spending hours copying to diskette? [more inside]
posted by crepeMyrtle at 3:05 PM PST - 14 comments

Boulder City rentals?

Looking for information about moving to Boulder City,NV. [more inside]
posted by a22lamia at 3:04 PM PST - 7 comments

Are supportive shoes good for your feet?

Should I walk on good shoes that support my feet, or does that weaken them and should I learn to walk on canvas shoes instead? [more inside]
posted by davar at 3:02 PM PST - 14 comments

Can I get airband radio functionality on my computer?

Can I get airband radio functionality on my computer? [more inside]
posted by cubedweller at 2:58 PM PST - 2 comments

Help me be content.

How do I reconcile myself to years more in a position that I loathe? [more inside]
posted by b33j at 2:51 PM PST - 17 comments

How soon in advance to purchase airline tickets to get cheapest flights?

How far in advance, or how close to the time, is the most advantageous time to purchase airline tickets in order to get the cheapest fares? For instance, if I were planning to travel in early August, and it's late April now, should I buy my ticket now, or should I wait until closer to the time (and how close is the "sweet spot")? Are there risks of the price going up substantially (more than $100)? This refers to U.S. travel (SEA-ATL in this case), traveling mid-week, with a weekend stay.
posted by matildaben at 2:50 PM PST - 11 comments

need help with interviewing a future employee

I run a chain of internet cafes and appear to have a high turnover of staff. I am now about to start a round of interviews of prospects. Could someone help me out with a list of potential questions
posted by patphelan at 2:43 PM PST - 12 comments

Should I get a Blackberry?

Which cellphone to replace my Ericsson T39m? [more inside]
posted by unSane at 1:44 PM PST - 2 comments

Geburstag in Salzburg

Where should I go to splurge on my birthday in Salzburg? [more inside]
posted by brujita at 1:22 PM PST - 6 comments

Recommendations for Chart/Graph-creation software for ASP.NET?

Recommendations for Chart/Graph-creation software for ASP.NET? [more inside]
posted by mkultra at 12:51 PM PST - 2 comments

How many T cars does that fill?

I am trying to express the concept of 500,000 gallons (US liquid, 128 fl. oz.) in terms of the volume of some other container or object. Can you think of a good analogy? [more inside]
posted by nekton at 12:47 PM PST - 26 comments

Nikon D50 - Good value for money?

Any concerns with the Nikon D50 or indeed any better Digital SLR for the same money? [more inside]
posted by pettins at 12:41 PM PST - 10 comments

Why are bicycle helmets so flimsy?

I got a new helmet about 4 months ago, and paid about $100. I wear it all the time, and value the safety it provides. However, I've noticed that nearly all bicycle helmets only have the harder plastic part on the OUTSIDE of the helmet, not also in the inside. I find my helmets always get dented on the inside or on the areas where there is no plastic covering. Why can't they manufacture ones that have it all around the foam areas? or at least on the surfaces that have contact with the table if I put it down on a table? Very frustrating to be always buying a new one, just because the foam gets damaged so easily. I'm willing to spend money to protect my brain, but it seems a little plastic would go a long way to make the helmet last a little longer. I know the helmet is supposed to absorb impact, but would it not absorb impact if there was plastic all around the inside and outside?
posted by jldindc at 12:15 PM PST - 22 comments

"If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the precipitate..."

Science web comics? (wishing for, not a discussion of) [more inside]
posted by o2b at 12:08 PM PST - 18 comments

What's an adultish date you can take a 19 year old to in Los Angeles?

I'm dating a girl who's 19 in Los Angeles. My standard date is drinks and dinner, maybe a show at a bar. All that is out. And I'm running out of mini-golf, karaoke and similar ideas. Where can I take this girl in the LA area to do something adult and less cutesy? Ideas?
posted by rileyray3000 at 11:59 AM PST - 38 comments

iPhoto without iLife?

I have iPhoto2 on my Mac but after 3.5 years I find it pretty lame, so I decided to buy iPhoto6: but then I found out it comes bundled with iLife 06, ie 7 Gb of other programs I don't really want or need. I have about 11 Gb of free disk space. Is there a way to find a simple copy of iPhoto6 or, say, even iPhoto4? It should be about 600-700 Mb, I suppose. thanks!
posted by PenguinBukkake at 11:38 AM PST - 12 comments

WTC and Choppers

Why was there no effort made to rescue those trapped on the upper floors of the World Trade Center with helicopters? [more inside]
posted by terrier319 at 11:10 AM PST - 20 comments

Need CMS for a simple database driven site

I'm looking for a something (php/mysql) that will help me build a simple database driven website. The CMS i've seen and used (such as drupal, post nuke) seem like overkill. [more inside]
posted by quarsan at 11:09 AM PST - 11 comments

web radiologist

radiologist on the web? [more inside]
posted by larry_darrell at 10:16 AM PST - 2 comments

Experience with testosterone gels?

Does anyone have experience using Testim or other testosterone gels? I have a testosterone deficiency which is causing anemia/fatigue and have just started using Testim. What should I expect in terms of feeling better? How long for improvement? Definite improvement? Not worth the risks?
posted by ancientgower at 9:23 AM PST - 3 comments

The First Rug?

Has any United States President ever been known to wear a wig? [more inside]
posted by graymouser at 9:18 AM PST - 8 comments

Take this interview and....

I'm up for a promotion at work, but my boss has already told me that I probably won't get it. She still wants me to go through the interview process because it'll be 'good experience'. Should I? [more inside]
posted by aristan at 9:14 AM PST - 24 comments

Comparing perimeters of arrays of hexagons vs. squares

Let's say I have an array of 100 adjoining hexagons, 10 hexagons per side. Let's also say I also have an array of 100 adjoining squares, 10 squares per side. Each single hexagon and each square encloses the same area. Is the perimeter of the array of 100 hexagons longer than the perimeter of the array of 100 squares? [more inside]
posted by Rumple at 8:42 AM PST - 17 comments

Hopefully, we'll all make it out alive

We're looking for a fun place approximately equidistant* from Washington, DC and Columbus, OH to spend a long weekend in July or August. Six adults, 3 kids (ages 1 -6). We're hoping to find someplace reasonably priced. Camping is not an option with most of this crowd, and a place with a kitchen would be great. Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by amarynth at 8:42 AM PST - 8 comments

Boston area home builders?

Can anyone recommend a good contractor / home builder in the Boston / Metrowest area? [more inside]
posted by bondcliff at 8:36 AM PST - 6 comments

More powerful map route searching

Is there a way to search for locations that are X miles from a route, not just a point? [more inside]
posted by toomanyplugs at 8:35 AM PST - 6 comments

Extension cord ripoff?

Why are three prong extension cords so much more expensive than two prong? [more inside]
posted by [insert clever name here] at 8:21 AM PST - 7 comments

Problems with bittorrent files on OS X...

Having probs downloading torrents. I'm on OS X. Can anyone help me or walk me thru how to make it work consistently? [more inside]
posted by Manhasset at 8:12 AM PST - 15 comments

Teh Internet is broekn

Please help me diagnose an intermittent computer network problem. [more inside]
posted by Tallguy at 7:55 AM PST - 12 comments

HTML woes: Google/Amazon ads and IE display woes

HTML woes: How can I make Amazon ads play nice with Google ads? Also, why is my web site's layout screwed up in Internet Explorer on Windows? I can't figure it out. [more inside]
posted by jdroth at 7:38 AM PST - 8 comments

Cats fighting?

How can i tell when my cats are just playing with each verses when they are actually fighting? [more inside]
posted by drezdn at 7:28 AM PST - 25 comments

Is there a MeFi of relationships?

Where can I find and participate in high-level, Metafilter-style discussion of relationships? [more inside]
posted by agropyron at 7:19 AM PST - 10 comments

West Coast mini-vacation ideas

I have four days (Fri to Mon) in May for a mini-vacation. I'm located in AZ and would like to stay in the western portion of the US, so I don't spend the whole time travelling. [more inside]
posted by cyniczny at 7:16 AM PST - 7 comments

nicked at the hairdresser, harmless or medical attention ?

Went with friend went for a haircut; got nicked (twice) by the hair stylist. Back of the neck. Not sure if it was because it was a brand new clipper or a really old (rusty?) one -- Is he paranoid in worrying about it or is it something that should be taken care of immediately? Guy, and this is the Bubbles salon if that matters.
posted by cusecase at 6:54 AM PST - 13 comments

Two MX records for one domain?

It is possible to have two distinct email servers (for two sets of non-overlapping addresses) for the same domain? [more inside]
posted by tiamat at 6:51 AM PST - 14 comments

Tips on flightchecking files for printers please.

Tips on flightchecking files for printers please. [more inside]
posted by aisforal at 6:42 AM PST - 4 comments

How are Brand-name foods repackaged?

Yes, I'm hungry and poor. So, how can I eat like a King but pay like a pauper? [more inside]
posted by ZackTM at 6:20 AM PST - 44 comments

Road bike handlebars -- dropped or flat?

Dropped vs. flat handle bars on a road bike? [more inside]
posted by puffin at 6:03 AM PST - 18 comments

Extreme budget travel in Eastern Europe

I need practical advice for extreme budget travelling in Eastern Europe this summer. [more inside]
posted by mosessis at 5:59 AM PST - 9 comments

Life on the moon!

Why do videogames with physics simulation always have things fall too slowly? [more inside]
posted by terpsichoria at 5:18 AM PST - 16 comments

What can I do to make a great Fulbright application?

I am applying for a U.S. Student Fulbright. Any recommendations for putting together a proposal? [more inside]
posted by k8t at 4:22 AM PST - 6 comments

learning to model

I'd like to learn basic 3-d modeling. Right now I have 3-d studio max r4. Are there any good online tutorials or guides that go over the basics. [more inside]
posted by delmoi at 4:17 AM PST - 6 comments

How many exam topics should be covered?

There are 10 possible exam topics. 6 will appear on the paper. 2 questions must be attempted. How well is an ass covered based on the number of topics covered? [more inside]
posted by kenaman at 4:03 AM PST - 13 comments

How can I see what Tiffany jewelry looks like on a person without going to one of their stores?

How can I see what Tiffany jewelry looks like on a person without going to one of their stores? [more inside]
posted by radioamy at 12:44 AM PST - 8 comments

April 24

Logistics & College

How can I best get experience in logistics in a college setting? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 11:11 PM PST - 6 comments

What's the best way to set up a tagging system?

Database experts: I'm setting up a tagging system for a site I run. What's the most efficient way to go about it? [more inside]
posted by Savvas at 10:46 PM PST - 11 comments

Who authored these sci-fi short story anthologies?

Name-that-sci-fi-author-filter ... [more inside]
posted by joe lisboa at 10:34 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me find this short story sequel to the War of the Worlds.

I heard it as it was dramatized on BBC World Service Radio around 2003. The story was told from the point of view of a descendant of one of the invading Martians. [more inside]
posted by micketymoc at 9:49 PM PST - 2 comments

Get the printer into the xbox then share it!

Linux Printer Share: i'm way over my head, I have a HP 648c USB printer, and I want to use my xbox that runs Debian natively (Xebian) to share the printer. Physical connection is no problem. But I am in way over my head in terms of setting up a simple printer share. It appear possible via Samba, but my experiments didn't pan out. [more inside]
posted by Napierzaza at 9:46 PM PST - 13 comments

Why are there so many helicopters over us?

Does anyone know what's going on with all the helicopters in Brooklyn tonight? [more inside]
posted by jeb at 9:41 PM PST - 5 comments

touchpad peripheral opinions re: carpal tunnel?

reviews/opinions about touchpad peripherals? carpal tunnel is kicking my god damned ass right now, and i feel like this might really reduce the stress/pain.
posted by radiosilents at 9:28 PM PST - 7 comments

How long to give a new job/city time before deciding its not working out?

How long to give a new job/city time before deciding its not working out? [more inside]
posted by dvjtj at 9:01 PM PST - 20 comments

Day of Marathon Planning

Day of Marathon planning questions. [more inside]
posted by mmascolino at 8:37 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me set Firefox as the default browser. No, really.

I installed MS Excel after Firefox and now Excel is convinced that URLs need to open in Internet Explorer. I tried the suggestions in Excel's help file to change it back. They didn't work. [more inside]
posted by Tuwa at 8:28 PM PST - 9 comments

The impossible dream of sharing my Canon printer between a Mac and a PC

I think I just need a USB switch. Simple solution needed for sharing my new Canon printer (working wonderfully with my Windows 98 SE machine) with my true love's Mac OS X (10.3...) machine. [more inside]
posted by amtho at 8:15 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me find a science fiction (short?) story.

Help me find a science fiction (short?) story. [more inside]
posted by bh at 6:38 PM PST - 7 comments

Website promotion of a budget. Where are the deals?

I've got two nickles to rub together, and like Charlie Bucket with a sweaty dollar coin going out to win the golden ticket, I too am looking for the ultimate bang for my website marketing buck. [more inside]
posted by rinkjustice at 6:33 PM PST - 17 comments

Can I take a mulligan on college?

ReDoFilter: Is it a good idea to go back to college? [more inside]
posted by mullacc at 6:05 PM PST - 23 comments

The Perfect Hooded Sweatshirt

Help me find the perfect hooded sweatshirt. [more inside]
posted by nakedsushi at 5:50 PM PST - 18 comments

Minimalist Acceptable Use Policy?

My company does not have a computer acceptable use policy. What is the bare minimum? [more inside]
posted by Roach at 5:12 PM PST - 27 comments

Sanding a Deck: How little can I get away with?

Sanding a Deck: How little can I get away with? [more inside]
posted by HK10036 at 4:47 PM PST - 8 comments

Can you recommend a dentist, orthodontist in los angeles or santa monica?

Can anyone recommend a dentist and orthodontist in Los Angeles or Santa Monica? [more inside]
posted by mam at 4:38 PM PST - 6 comments

You mean an $50 dinner isn't enough?

Apparently we're supposed to give a gift to the guests that attend our wedding. What to do? [more inside]
posted by furtive at 4:38 PM PST - 49 comments

Advice for employee in company about to go insolvent

Help! Best advice for employee in 100+ person company likely to become insolvent very soon (UK) [more inside]
posted by kiwi.es at 4:23 PM PST - 12 comments

undead fruit.

How do I work with freeze-dried foods? [more inside]
posted by digifox at 4:21 PM PST - 3 comments

Can I make this bike quieter?

Vintage bicycle question: I recently acquired an old 1970s schwinn 10-speed road bike. The ticking sound created by the freewheel when coasting is exceptionally loud. Is this normal? Can anything be done to quiet it down?
posted by anticlock at 4:21 PM PST - 14 comments

Do you have an example of a well designed alphanumeric outline?

Have you seen the redesigned Presidential Daily Brief memo featuring "terrorist determined to attack America"? (Do you have the link?) I'm looking for the same type of design examples for alphanumeric or numeric outlines. [more inside]
posted by McGuillicuddy at 4:16 PM PST - 9 comments

I'm sick of my paper nails!

My fingernails are thin and break really easily - is there something I'm missing in my diet, or something I can take to make them thicker and stronger? [more inside]
posted by pazazygeek at 3:39 PM PST - 18 comments

Bonnie and Clyde

Songs about bad boys and the women who love them. [more inside]
posted by skjønn at 3:38 PM PST - 38 comments

Apple OS X Faxing of PDFs??

Is it possible to Fax a PDF in OS X Tiger? When I try, the result is cut off and in landscape orientation [more inside]
posted by ParisParamus at 3:30 PM PST - 6 comments

Website for freelance writer?

I am beginning to experience a small amount of success as a freelance writer, and want to put together a professional website so that folks may hire me/contact me if they desire. [more inside]
posted by Thistledown at 3:12 PM PST - 4 comments

Barcelona to Ibiza fun trip

Hello, I am trying to find a way to get from Barcelona to Ibiza, I know there are ferries and there are short flights. But I am looking for a very fun way to go, I heard there was a short cruise. Does this exist, do they have liquor?
posted by Gabe014 at 2:17 PM PST - 3 comments

My dog wants to riot in Mexico!

My wife and I are moving to Mexico in August for a year. We are concerned about getting our dog there by air. Has anyone done this and what would you recommend? [more inside]
posted by Hands of Manos at 2:04 PM PST - 15 comments

Curly vs. straight: what gives?

What is the cause of curly hair, and further, why does the curliness of hair differ? Proteins? If so, is it genetic? How do "hair-straightening" products work? [more inside]
posted by Frankieist at 2:02 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me make the bonfire go smoothly.

Please help me make the bonfire go smoothly and my birthday not suck. [more inside]
posted by like_neon at 1:51 PM PST - 16 comments

Why do you hurt me iTunes?

What happened? I burned three cds on iTunes and they won't play in my car stereo at all. [more inside]
posted by generic230 at 12:52 PM PST - 15 comments

Will my girl's cat kill me?

Allergy question. I'm getting married this summer and my fiance has a wonderful kitty that I love to pieces. But I'm allergic to cats. Is there any way for me and kitty to survive in one apartment without me choking to death or crying all the time?
posted by hughbot at 12:29 PM PST - 27 comments

Tony Sopranos windy backyard

Why does it always seem to be windy in Tony Soprano's backyard? Some sort of dramatic symbolism, or filmed in a windy part of New Jersey?
posted by Keith Talent at 11:46 AM PST - 16 comments

How much forest does one need to keep his home heated.

How many forested acres would it take to heat a modest midwestern home in perpetuity? [more inside]
posted by Kwantsar at 11:41 AM PST - 17 comments

Is living in NYC environmentally superior to the suburbs?

Is living in New York City more environmentally sensitive than living in the suburbs? [more inside]
posted by logovisual at 11:41 AM PST - 18 comments

Pool pump problem

Help me troubleshoot the pump for my in-ground pool before I pay an electrician! [more inside]
posted by punkfloyd at 11:32 AM PST - 4 comments

Pinkpop 2006 experiences?

Planning on going to Pinkpop in The Netherlands. Any experiences? [more inside]
posted by justkevin at 10:39 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me choose a file server OS

Home network consists of two XP machines, an OSX laptop, and an Ubuntu laptop. Have just been given an old PIII to use as a file server. What OS should the file server run and what should I use to format the disks?
posted by humuhumu at 10:35 AM PST - 18 comments

Encyclopedia Collecting

I'm interested in Encyclopedia collecting. Where would i find info about prices of old encyclopedias etc? (other than ebay)
posted by storybored at 10:26 AM PST - 10 comments

Evening with geisha.

JapanFilter: How do I hire a geisha? [more inside]
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 10:03 AM PST - 31 comments

Most common English words

What are the 500 most commonly used words in the English language ? Where can I get such a list ? [more inside]
posted by inquisitive at 9:57 AM PST - 15 comments

how do I make an art cake?

I'm making a cake for my best friend's BFA show opening reception. She wants it to match the furniture and jewelry that she's showing- [more inside]
posted by cilantro at 9:55 AM PST - 13 comments

Howard Stern Film Festival finalists?

Howard Stern Film Festival has wrapped up recently, and today was the day when they announced the finalists. Since I have no access to list to Stern, I was wondering if anyone cought the finalists of this festival. Thanks in advance!
posted by cheero at 9:51 AM PST - 3 comments

Selling A Tercel with an engine light that won't turn off

I am about to sell a 1996 Toyota Tercel that has seen better cosmetic days. It runs fine, has a pretty new exhaust, and a new thermostat. However, the engine light is on. I got an inspection at a Toyota dealer and the read out states that there is nothing wrong with it, but the light will not turn off. [more inside]
posted by toddst at 9:46 AM PST - 13 comments

How best to choose an x-box modchip?

I'm having trouble deciding on a modchip for my xbox. Like any normal person, I'd prefer to keep my costs low. But, I'd prefer to do that by simply not purchasing features or options I don't need. [more inside]
posted by Spoonman at 8:51 AM PST - 13 comments

How can I get manila folders in France?

Getting manila folders in France? [more inside]
posted by paul! at 8:48 AM PST - 8 comments

omgz, so tall

I'm 6'8". People are always asking me how tall I am. Instead of telling the truth, what are some witty, non-confrontational responses I might use? [more inside]
posted by trevyn at 8:47 AM PST - 95 comments

Artifacts of India

What makes the older recordings of Indian music sound so distinctive? [more inside]
posted by I EAT TAPAS at 8:29 AM PST - 5 comments

Stop the car, Dad!

What quirky/marginally unsafe/weird/fun/"too good to be true" places do you remember from your childhood (and that might still exist now)? [more inside]
posted by crosten at 8:24 AM PST - 48 comments

Music Journalism: Making it Sound Good

Writin'Filter: What makes a great musician/band profile? [more inside]
posted by Miko at 8:23 AM PST - 10 comments

Interactive Marketing

does anyone know what the term "interactive marketing" means? [more inside]
posted by jadanzzy at 8:18 AM PST - 11 comments

Evilhol?

Ethanol Evil? I've heard having energy and food competing for land will be bad for the environment. I've heard ethanol burns cleaner and will create less CO2 which is good for the environment. Also a side question, how much ethanol is currently in gasoline, and is that a good or bad thing?
posted by parallax7d at 8:11 AM PST - 9 comments

Powering an external drive on my Powerbook?

How can I be certain that the external hard drive I want to buy to backup my Powerbook hard drive will not require an external power source? [more inside]
posted by gregoryc at 8:04 AM PST - 9 comments

Can you recommend "Virtual DJ" application?

I'm looking for an application (or plugin) that will act as a "Virtual DJ" (complete with cross-fading and beat-matching) with no input from me. [more inside]
posted by mr_silver at 7:58 AM PST - 9 comments

Daddy needs a new set of wheels...

I don't think the vehicle I want exists at the price I can pay. Or does it? [more inside]
posted by WinnipegDragon at 7:40 AM PST - 34 comments

Maths powers failing me...

Maths question: How can you make 25 using only the numbers 2,4,6,8? [more inside]
posted by prentiz at 7:31 AM PST - 38 comments

Canada tourist advice please?

I'm from the UK and I'm going to Canada next week (Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa). I asked earlier, about Montreal but our plans have now expanded to other cities... So, what shouldn't I miss? Of course, there's... [more inside]
posted by handee at 7:03 AM PST - 21 comments

Ask a Nepali (or insert group here)

Inspired by this post, I want to either create or find a repository of links to sites facilitating asking possibly insensitive questions of a member(s) of a group. Thus, I'm looking for links to such sites. [more inside]
posted by Gnatcho at 6:15 AM PST - 10 comments

Digital Printing in Atlanta

Where can I find a good digital printing company in Atlanta? [more inside]
posted by Sreiny at 5:42 AM PST - 3 comments

How to explain away a bankruptcy in my distant past?

I need help generating an 'explanation' for my bankruptcy 6 and 1/2 years ago that will not make me look financially incapable to a potential investor. Are there any 'good' explanations for filing bankruptcy that I could use in order to not have this fact work against me? I need potential circumstances that would warrant a bankruptcy and sound reasonable to a potential business partner. More inside... [more inside]
posted by AdInfinitum at 5:25 AM PST - 17 comments

suddenly my poop looks like a disco ball

I need to remove a fairly thin but durable chrome plating from a threaded area in a brass boiler tank. [more inside]
posted by dong_resin at 4:48 AM PST - 12 comments

Where can I find a list of common spanish words/phrases?

Does anyone know where I can find a list online of 500-1000 most common spanish words or phrases, along with their meanings? I searched a bit and found quite a few that had 50 or a 100 approximately, but I want more. I have a Spanish to English dictionary, but I want to print out a quick reference sheet. The list can be words or phrases, it doesnt matter too much.
posted by JokingClown at 12:09 AM PST - 4 comments

April 23

What ever happened to N-Patches?

Posting for a friend: A question for all you 3D rendering people... I want to know if there is any technology that is supported in recent GPUs that interpolates a 3d surface based on the vertex normals of a triangle in order to gain a higher level of detail. [more inside]
posted by autojack at 11:38 PM PST - 6 comments

Is it safe to be a first time biker in Vietnam?

Is motorcycling in Vietnam safe for a first-timer? [more inside]
posted by sudasana at 11:21 PM PST - 23 comments

CPAP Machine Question

I have a CPAP machine, a REMStar Plus, and I'd like to adjust the settings on it to turn it down since I've recently lost a lot of weight. I can't get to my clinic to do this since I'm currently in Nepal. Anyone have any suggestions on how to do this?
posted by AArtaud at 10:03 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me name/locate these two short 1980s (?) animations.

Help me name/locate two 1980s (?) animated short films. [more inside]
posted by Aknaton at 9:42 PM PST - 7 comments

Perhaps a bit trivial.

Anyone know of any good sushi restaurants in the D.C. area that're open on Saturdays? Preferably all-you-can-eat places, suitable for a date.
posted by kafziel at 9:32 PM PST - 21 comments

Pay me in wine.

Way for a student to save for college w/o being taxed? [more inside]
posted by the giant pill at 9:01 PM PST - 6 comments

a place to call home

Are there any up and comming real estate markets? The type of place you can buy a good starter house for around 100k/150k. bonus for liberal minded places that are close (45 min drive max) to a midsized city.
posted by kantgirl at 7:03 PM PST - 24 comments

Should I support the Greencard process?

Greencard Filter: A friend wants me to write a letter supporting his green card process; are the potential legal ramifications for me? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:05 PM PST - 32 comments

Why are some YouTube videos so much better quality than others? What video specs and file format (AVI, MOV, MPG) produce the best results?

Why are some YouTube videos so much better quality than others? What video specs and file format (AVI, MOV, MPG) produce the best results?
posted by JudgeBork at 5:56 PM PST - 6 comments

Missing Formula Bar

Excel for OSX Filter: My Formula bar disappeared and I can't get it back! [more inside]
posted by crapples at 5:06 PM PST - 3 comments

RGP lenses meet sunglasses

EyewearBehavingBadlyFilter: My contacts refuse to play nice with store-bought sunglasses. Help! [more inside]
posted by thomas j wise at 4:56 PM PST - 4 comments

Help me find my favorite book!

[LongLostChildhoodMemoriesFilter] I am looking for a book that I had as a wee-one, involving a night-time adventure through the city via a boy's imagination and a shoebox diorama. [more inside]
posted by elr at 4:49 PM PST - 11 comments

How can I subscribe to Daily Kos via Bloglines without seeing duplicate posts?

Bloglines always shows me duplicates of many Daily Kos posts (even though I have "Updated Items" set to "Ignore"). Is there a way that I can work around this, weed the duplicates out somehow? Perhaps using a middle-man of some kind? [more inside]
posted by thatgirl at 4:38 PM PST - 7 comments

Can I plug a laptop into a guitar amp?

Can I plug my laptop into a guitar amp without damaging the laptop? I'm using a male eigth inch to male quarter inch cable between my laptop's integrated soundcard and a fender amp's second input. I tried this briefly and it worked, though the sound quality is what you'd expect of such a setup. I then plugged a guitar into the same amp. Everything still worked, but upon removing the laptop, the guitar got noticably louder, leading me to worry about what kind of potential I was putting across the soundcard's output from the guitar. The soundcard does not seem to be at all damaged.
posted by phrontist at 4:36 PM PST - 9 comments

Biking around Lake Ontario

I want to bike all the way around Lake Ontario, starting in Toronto and heading East. I have questions! [more inside]
posted by loquax at 4:08 PM PST - 26 comments

Pre-existing JavaScript for using tab to indent textarea contents?

Has anyone previously published a JavaScript methodology for using the Tab key to indent while within HTML textarea controls? [more inside]
posted by cyrusdogstar at 3:58 PM PST - 13 comments

Should I vacation in San Diego?

How is San Diego as a summer vacation spot? The target date is mid-late August. [more inside]
posted by tomorama at 3:42 PM PST - 15 comments

Sending E-mail to a group

What's a good Windows-based program for sending daily blind carbon copy E-mails to a small group of people (like 10 or 20)? [more inside]
posted by rolypolyman at 3:37 PM PST - 11 comments

Culture and Mental Illness?

Where can I find out more about superstitious beliefs and mental illness on a more global level? [more inside]
posted by Dance Commander at 2:32 PM PST - 9 comments

Video and Audio streaming

I want to use a hosting account (e.g. 1&1 or godaddy or similar) and stream video and audio. Do I need a special service? And how does Google Video do it? What is the best format for Video streaming? Thanks!
posted by bright77blue at 2:07 PM PST - 6 comments

How to determine polarity for a device?

How can I tell what polarity a device is? I have a Sonic Impact T-Amp and I want to use a universal adapter for it -- all I know is it's 12v and can be powered by 8 AA batteries.
posted by mattholomew at 2:00 PM PST - 8 comments

I use to be a superhero

It's time for my boyfriend's birthday and I need clothing advice. [more inside]
posted by nadawi at 12:49 PM PST - 29 comments

Hotels in Prague, Bratislava, Budapest, or Ljubljana?

Hotel-Filter: Prague, Bratislava, Budapest, Ljubljana.... In May I'll be travelling with my parents (60ish) and my S.O. to Eastern Europe. We (i.e. mom) won't be interested in hostels (at least not loud, dorm-room-ish ones). We will, however, be interested in quaint, reasonably priced, and very clean / tidy places to stay. They needn't be in the city center. Pensions, B&B's, etc. would be swell as well. Any thoughts on any of these cities will be most helpful.... [more inside]
posted by rumbles at 12:48 PM PST - 8 comments

Trouble in Spain, morning after pill help.

Finding a morning after pill in Spain? [more inside]
posted by sled at 11:37 AM PST - 17 comments

Infrared remote extender thingy, who are you!?!?!

Help me name this device.... Saw this at someones house. A small device that allows you to control a dvd player or stereo (any infrared device) while it's within a cabinet with the doors closed. A small box is stuck on the outside of it that apparently catches the signal and transfers it inside and resends it to control the components within. Does that make any sense?? Where can i find this thing? Thanks!
posted by joshgray at 11:35 AM PST - 12 comments

Automatic backup of my flash drive?

Can I set it up so that my flash drive automatically backs itself up onto my home computer when I plug it in? [more inside]
posted by goatdog at 11:21 AM PST - 10 comments

Looking for a famous painting

FamousPaintingFilter: Anybody know a famous (?) painting depicting a woman with a young girl lying in her lap, breastfeeding her and .. uh... what seems to be "touching" her .. uh... "down there"? [more inside]
posted by slater at 11:01 AM PST - 12 comments

I'm pretty sure the technical title is "Little Dipstick Tube"...

Well, here's a dumb one: can I pour motor oil down the, uh, little tube where my dipstick rests? [more inside]
posted by Ian A.T. at 11:01 AM PST - 13 comments

Pro-choice Protest Pics Please!

I'm trying to find images of feminist protests... [more inside]
posted by speranza at 9:39 AM PST - 10 comments

What's the music used in films to represent spiders?

What instrument is used to make the fast, tinkly, skin-crawling picking-on-a-harp high-pitched sound effect that accompanies spiders and other insects in movies? [more inside]
posted by hoverboards don't work on water at 9:36 AM PST - 17 comments

How to identify this Alfred Hitchcock artist?

My friend has about eight original paintings that were used as the cover art for some Alfred Hitchcock mystery books published by Dell in the 1970s. I've tried an Internet search but can't locate the name of the artist. Can anyone help me out? (More inside . . . ) [more inside]
posted by mijuta at 9:30 AM PST - 8 comments

Who invented the Pause icon?

Any idea which device first used two vertical bars to represent "pause"? [more inside]
posted by billder at 8:38 AM PST - 5 comments

Is China keeping its currency undervalued a double edged sword for China?

Is China keeping its currency undervalued a double edged sword for China? [more inside]
posted by studentguru at 7:10 AM PST - 28 comments

Good integrated RSS reader/bookmark manager?

What's the best RSS reader? [more inside]
posted by zooropa at 6:27 AM PST - 11 comments

Underwater Love dance mix?

I give up. I've been searching for months for a remix of the song Underwater Love by Smoke City. The version I'm looking for was on an electronic/dance compilation a friend had bought in Spain in the late 90s. I'm not even sure if this version was done by Smoke City. The original song is slow and lovely, but I want the fast danceable version. Any info or leads would be appreciated.
posted by Constant Reader at 6:26 AM PST - 7 comments

How is American Idol's Phone System Configured?

For *cough* professional *cough* reasons (see profile) I'm interested in how a large scale "vote for your favorite" phone bank would be setup. Every year during American Idol seasons fans complain that they were unable to vote for their favorite - why might that be? [more inside]
posted by dhacker at 3:45 AM PST - 28 comments

Filtering groups of records using awk?

How to remove groups of records from a text file using awk or similar in Unix based on a flag at the end of the record-groups? [more inside]
posted by misteraitch at 2:50 AM PST - 27 comments

Why Borrow?

According to this site, Canada has piled $570 billion in debt between years 2000 and 2004. My understanding was that our government has been running a surplus since 1997. So, how did this happen? [more inside]
posted by lenny70 at 1:59 AM PST - 29 comments

Yet another graphics card question: NVIDIA vs NVIDIA?

After configuring two laptops (Dell E1705 and Dell XPS M1710) to my needs, the only differences are the graphics cards and the price. The XPS houses the 512MB NVIDIA GeForce Go 7900 GTX whereas the E1705 comes in the 256MB NVIDA GeForce Go 7800 flavor. The price difference is that the XPS is $1,253 more expensive. What are the major differences between the two graphic cards? What about overall differences? [more inside]
posted by Jonasan at 1:54 AM PST - 12 comments

Getting it free

Looking for alternative methods for getting referrals for a "free ____ " program. [more inside]
posted by beammeup4 at 1:52 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me set my burglar alarm

Help me set my burglar alarm [more inside]
posted by TheophileEscargot at 1:35 AM PST - 8 comments

How to start a T-shirt Business

My wife is looking to start her own T-Shirt design and printing business online. What kind of software, printer and paper will be required ? Are there any online resources for starting a T-shirt printing business ?
posted by labnol at 12:28 AM PST - 12 comments

Find these shoes!?

I hate shopping, but need new shoes. Have you seen anything like these ANYWHERE in a 9 or 9W? Anything vaguely similar? [more inside]
posted by rexruff at 12:17 AM PST - 9 comments

How can I give up driving to become a bike commuter?

Help me get in shape & learn what I need to know so I can start biking the seven miles to work (and seven miles back)! [more inside]
posted by croutonsupafreak at 12:16 AM PST - 23 comments

April 22

Conversion to Judaism

I was raised Christian (Southern Baptist, was baptized). However I feel pulled towards Judaism. There is Jewish ancestry on my mom's side but for whatever reason, someone had to have converted. In a way I want to 'take it back'. How does one begin a conversion process to Judaism? There is a Reform synagogue here but I feel so foreign there since I know so little of Jewish traditions.
posted by miltoncat at 11:16 PM PST - 42 comments

Is my computer possessed? My BIOS has a mind of it's own!

I've got a tower (AMD 3000+ with a gigabyte motherboard, 3/4ths of a gig of ram, etc.) that I'm trying to set up for a media center. The thing is, the first screen (where it's checking the ram) the keyboard works fine. I can go and edit my bios settings, save and exit, etc. However, on the next screen (where I have the option of booting from CD and such) keyboard input ceases to be. [more inside]
posted by TrueVox at 8:47 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I make one css section line up with a second one?

How do I make one css section line up with a second one? [more inside]
posted by edjusted at 8:24 PM PST - 5 comments

Academic and Non-academic fusion?

Are there hybrid academic fields out there allowing one the option of working in the service of various causes while possibly teaching if one is able? Thus far, I have become interested in the NEW SCHOOL FOR SOCIAL RESEARCH in NYC and THE ANNENBERG SCHOOL OF CULTURE OF COMMUNICATION at U Penn. Does anyone know about these schools / know about other hybrid programs / fields? [more inside]
posted by withdillemma at 8:03 PM PST - 7 comments

A DVD player, a TV, composite cables, and a spark

Connecting my DVD player to my TV apparently damaged the latter's composite cable ports. Now I'm wondering if this could happen to other devices. [more inside]
posted by yz at 7:57 PM PST - 5 comments

Advice on dealing with a large ovarian cyst

I have a large cyst on one of my ovaries but I have to wait until the beginning of the week to find out if I have to have surgery and the waiting is killing me! I am wondering if some of you could throw some educated guesses my way on what I may be in for? [more inside]
posted by LeeJay at 6:58 PM PST - 37 comments

Finding suits for short, portly men is hell, I tell you, pure hell.

Okay, for whatever reason, I cannot find this information to save my life: In men's suits, what is the typical length for a "short" (as in not regular or long) suit jacket? For a regular jacket? Is there a range of typical lengths? [more inside]
posted by Medieval Maven at 6:54 PM PST - 2 comments

How to repair a scratch on laminate flooring?

So I just had some new laminate hardwood floor installed and on cue scratched it today . . . [more inside]
posted by quadog at 6:02 PM PST - 3 comments

Head Weight

How can I measure the weight of my head without cutting it off? [more inside]
posted by mammary16 at 5:41 PM PST - 74 comments

Looking for more words like this: "Pull apart the double helix like a wishbone."

I really like the lyrics of Why? {mp3 1 2 3}. Based solely on the words (fave lyrics here, here and here), what poets and other writers or songwriters would I like?
posted by You Should See the Other Guy at 5:31 PM PST - 10 comments

Is CVS contact solution really Renu?

Is CVS No Rub Multi-purpose solution really RENU, labeled under CVS pharmacy? [more inside]
posted by Andrea2880 at 5:17 PM PST - 9 comments

Best places to visit within a small radius of DC?

Destinations close to DC: I have fairly severe panic disorder that is aggravated by travel, and would like to take a trip for my anniversary. I am considering Bethany Beach in Delaware, but are there any other places I should research/consider within an under-three-hour drive from Northern Virginia?
posted by juniper at 5:05 PM PST - 9 comments

Same-day cleaners in midtown

[ManhattanFilter] Same-day cleaners in midtown? [more inside]
posted by dentata at 4:58 PM PST - 6 comments

Poster seeks poster.

I'm looking for a poster that used to hang in my grandmother's kitchen. [more inside]
posted by vernondalhart at 4:38 PM PST - 5 comments

Whose baby pictures are they?

My parents divorced when I was a toddler, with virtually all my baby pictures plus many hours of movies (including birth, first steps, etc.) going to the non-custodial parent. For a variety of painful reasons, I have been long estranged from that parent, as well as that entire branch of the family. And that is of the good. Yet it would mean so much to be able to fill in the blank slate of my childhood with images and sounds. Am I wrong for feeling as though morally this collection belongs to me? Does a child, especially an estranged child, have the right to ask for their baby pictures? And how, precisely, do I ask such a favor of a person from whom I want absolutely no other contact? [more inside]
posted by nakedcodemonkey at 4:37 PM PST - 12 comments

What is this brass ornament thing?

What is this brass ornament thing? [more inside]
posted by ruby.aftermath at 3:53 PM PST - 5 comments

What percent of your income do you spend on your car payment and mortgage payment?

What percent of your income do you spend on your car payment and mortgage payment?
posted by comatose at 3:30 PM PST - 57 comments

Music similar to Boards of Canada?

I really, really, like Boards of Canada. What other similar music might I like? [more inside]
posted by Otis at 3:15 PM PST - 38 comments

Any suggestions for tools to build backgrounds and buttons/icons for web sites?

Any suggestions for tools to build backgrounds and buttons/icons for web sites? [more inside]
posted by brokekid at 3:11 PM PST - 3 comments

Island Paradise?

Any Recommendations for St. John and the area? [more inside]
posted by Lord_Pall at 2:55 PM PST - 4 comments

calculating focal length with digital point and shoot cameras.

I have some pictures taken by somebody else using a digital camera. I am trying to match them up with a digital model to do photomontages. I need to figure out the 35mm equivalent focal distance on the shots. [more inside]
posted by signal at 2:54 PM PST - 6 comments

feeling better about myself - how?

I have an unrequited crush and need to get over it and stop obsessing. But how? [more inside]
posted by different at 2:04 PM PST - 18 comments

Moving from software engineer to technical architect

I've been doing web app development for about 7 years now. Ideally I would love to get away from being a coder and go more down the technical architect route. Any tips or personal stories about making that change, or is it simply a matter of increasing your knowledge and applying for the opportunities?
posted by xmutex at 1:25 PM PST - 7 comments

Atlanta cricket virgin seeks experienced partners.

When I move back to Atlanta this summer, I'd like to learn how to play cricket. What do I do? [more inside]
posted by viewofdelft at 1:13 PM PST - 6 comments

Can a Landlord Legally use Security Cameras for Petty Purposes?

Anyone know the laws regarding video surveillance in apartment complexes? My crazy landlord has taken to using security cameras in the commons area to harass tenants... [more inside]
posted by Blingo at 1:12 PM PST - 15 comments

Pretty cool way to keep your pants up.

Where can I buy good leather beltstraps? [more inside]
posted by willpie at 12:31 PM PST - 4 comments

What is the cheapest (and easiest to use) magnetic stripe writer?

What is the cheapest and most user-friendly magnetic stripe card writer? (A hi-co writer is greatly preferred.) [more inside]
posted by Symeon at 12:10 PM PST - 4 comments

Creating an e-mail list from volunteer form responses

I am building a website for a nonprofit and they want to have a volunteer sign-up form on their site where the input can easily be turned into an e-mail list. [more inside]
posted by JuliaKM at 11:49 AM PST - 6 comments

How do I talk to Apple's Bluetooth driver?

I want to script the "Turn Bluetooth (On|Off)" action in OSX. I don't know how. There's just a little bit... [more inside]
posted by majick at 10:43 AM PST - 6 comments

Pay as you go webhosting

I saw this website a while ago that offered pay as you go web hosting. You would prepay and the usage (disk, bandwidth, etc) would deduct from your account. I seem to remember it being dirt cheap. Anyone know what it is?
posted by kenneth at 10:28 AM PST - 10 comments

Suggestion for best offline role-playing game?

Suggestion for best offline role-playing game? [more inside]
posted by It ain't over yet at 10:05 AM PST - 23 comments

Sell my condo

I really need to sell my condo... How should.... [more inside]
posted by curiousleo at 9:20 AM PST - 9 comments

Weight control/fitness rut

Struggling with a weight control/fitness rut (and more). [more inside]
posted by I_Love_Bananas at 9:03 AM PST - 12 comments

How did Victorians care for their urban horses?

Where can I find info on urban horse care during the late 1800s and early 1900s? [more inside]
posted by FauxScot at 8:30 AM PST - 5 comments

Seeking Database Software

Could someone recommend a Database Software package that is less complicated than Microsoft Access. I just need a package for entering customers' addresses and phone numbers and have six or seven fields that can be sort. As you can see, a very simple database; yet one that is effective. Thank you!
posted by Mckoan1 at 8:22 AM PST - 13 comments

What's so good about Charlotte, anyway?

I'll be moving to Charlotte, North Carolina in three months - and I have no clue what to expect. How do I find good online resources, specific to Charlotte, to help me figure out how to survive? [more inside]
posted by itchi23 at 8:17 AM PST - 7 comments

How to submit a truly anonymous crime tip?

A friend confided in me that he has learned that a business acquaintance is doing some very illegal things (namely, soliciting children via the Internet for sex, and exchanging nude pictures with said minors). He wants to report what he's found out, but the problem is, the way he acquired the information is also highly illegal -- namely, email hacking. [more inside]
posted by justonegirl at 8:08 AM PST - 52 comments

my laptop is dead

My laptop died. or at least is in a coma. [more inside]
posted by rare_g at 7:36 AM PST - 2 comments

Where can I get all black, undecorated CDRs?

Where else can I get all black, undecorated CDRs like these (ideally in the UK/Europe)? [more inside]
posted by caek at 7:31 AM PST - 2 comments

Waxy desk disaster

In a rush I used a vintage wood desktop as an ironing board. Smart. My new super-powered iron seems to have caused the finish to smear and/or partially decompose into a chalky wax resin. How do I remove and repair?
posted by jeffmacintyre at 7:23 AM PST - 3 comments

Who is this Angel?

Does anyone know the origin of this ubiquitous angel print? It has followed me around all my life in the midwest... I’ve seen all sizes of prints, several different versions including fountains and nightlights. Where did it come from?
posted by dkippe at 6:35 AM PST - 12 comments

Encryption for an entire hard disk partition

What's the best way to encrypt an external hard disk? (Mac OS X) [more inside]
posted by dance at 4:42 AM PST - 4 comments

X push-ups a day keeps the doctor away?

Would this work for getting fit? [more inside]
posted by slimepuppy at 4:28 AM PST - 8 comments

CSS HTML newbie problem

Could anyone help me with a frustrating html / css problem relating to a glitchy display in internet explorer? [more inside]
posted by Meatbomb at 3:47 AM PST - 6 comments

lost mother.

locating a lost relative when you lack important information? [more inside]
posted by Tryptophan-5ht at 1:00 AM PST - 5 comments

Is this a panic attack?

Please help me with a diagnosis of these symptoms. My girlfriend just had what I would describe as a panic attack. I understand we should probably talk to a doctor, but please help us out for the time-being. [more inside]
posted by Newbornstranger at 12:26 AM PST - 20 comments

April 21

Culture and begging in America - is there a connection?

More American urban sociology: I live in a city with a diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures. How come the only people I ever see begging for spare change are either white or black? Why do I never see asians or hispanics begging? Is this a real cultural phenomenon, or am I just making false conclusions based on a too-small sample size? [more inside]
posted by kenoshakid at 11:17 PM PST - 13 comments

CVS checkout by date, how?

noob and CVS. How do I check out source by date? [more inside]
posted by Grod at 11:07 PM PST - 9 comments

How do I rename files based on the contents of a text file?

I have a folder of 300+ files with three digit file names. I also have a tab-delimited text file which has the current file name and the corresponding desired file name. How can I use the text file to properly rename all my files? (This is on Mac OS X)
posted by nathan_teske at 10:45 PM PST - 14 comments

Help me find surnames that come from occupations.

Smith, Potter, Miller, Carter, Bishop, Thatcher, Fisher, Archer, Cook. Can anyone point me to a list of other surnames that come from occupations or come up with some other examples for me?
posted by pwb503 at 9:43 PM PST - 49 comments

Demographics & Nielsen ratings

TV filter: I'm a media studies major and I'm trying to find a reliable source for A.) Nielsen ratings & B.) Detailed Demographics for specific shows. [more inside]
posted by meta x zen at 9:06 PM PST - 8 comments

What is the difference in style of play between European and NBA basketball?

What is the difference in style of play between European and NBA basketball? [more inside]
posted by dammitjim at 8:43 PM PST - 13 comments

Has any good music ever come from the capital?

Have any really famous bands or even solo artists (of any genre) come from the Washington D.C. area (including Maryland and Virginia suburbs)? My friend and I were able to think of successful or even good and successful musicians from most every major city in the country except the DC area..... [more inside]
posted by skepticallypleased at 7:45 PM PST - 74 comments

Help me make a business case for RSS

I need to try to make a business case that my internet company should start publishing RSS feeds. We like traffic, and my claim is that RSS will bring new traffic in. But I don't have a frame of reference for how much. It would be great to know, for example, what percentage of MetaFilter's users click in from an RSS reader. Any data from CNET or any other site, really, would be helpful. How much traffic growth can RSS drive?
posted by scarabic at 7:28 PM PST - 13 comments

Website modifications

Is there a way to determine when a page (or a URL, for that matter) was last modified? I've seen a couple of Java suggestions, but they only give me the current date and time (and assume the page in question does not have a "this page modified on...." tag).
posted by astorias at 6:55 PM PST - 16 comments

Moving Windows Folders

How can I move Windows folders without messing up my system config? [more inside]
posted by Knigel at 3:54 PM PST - 16 comments

The ugly side of traffic court

I've finally gotten together the funds to remove my traffic ticket warrant but..... [more inside]
posted by IronLizard at 3:54 PM PST - 16 comments

melatonin in dogs?

Is melatonin present in the brains of other mammals, specifically dogs? Does it serve the same function? How unique or not unique is the brain chemistry of humans?
posted by geekhorde at 3:35 PM PST - 7 comments

Video blogs about the entertainment industry

I'm looking for video blogs that discuss the entertainment industry (film, music, stage, video games). [more inside]
posted by amusem at 3:35 PM PST - 7 comments

Okay to use non-musical samples in music?

Is it okay, legally speaking, to use non-musical audio samples in a musical recording? [more inside]
posted by Durhey at 3:04 PM PST - 25 comments

translate from english to spanish

Need help translating english to spanish... [more inside]
posted by cusack at 2:51 PM PST - 24 comments

Architecture or engineering?

Architecture or engineering? [more inside]
posted by aquavit at 2:40 PM PST - 19 comments

AAC with mp3 players

Are there any MP3 players that will play .acc files other than an iPOD, or am I screwed [more inside]
posted by tirebouchon at 2:36 PM PST - 14 comments

Making an inspiring vision and planning how to get there...

Nonprofit strategic planning and leadership skills. The groups at the forefront of environmental thinking today (or any cause, really) -- how did they become the visionary leaders? How did they get their power? Why are they considered one of the "big players?" [more inside]
posted by salvia at 2:29 PM PST - 8 comments

Salvador Dali Paintings Authentic?

I have two paintings signed by Salvador Dali I am in the process in having them authenticated as legit or copies. To possibly save some resources I would like to do background on the paintings, but I am unable to find any information, any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by lutzla23 at 12:52 PM PST - 17 comments

Weird Cat Reflex?

My cat Lulu has a strange quirk - if you touch a certain spot on her tail while she's lying down, she will start kicking herself in the face. It does not seem like she wants to do this, it's more like a reflex. Could such a mechanism exist? Or is our kitty a little bit more special/brain damaged than we thought?
posted by agregoli at 12:30 PM PST - 22 comments

Cleaning clothes in cold water

Does cold water laundry detergent get everything properly clean? Really? Honest? [more inside]
posted by rosemere at 12:18 PM PST - 24 comments

Medical jargon help?

"tab-gen abortion" "a demonstration set of lams, pale green matchsticks made of compressed seaweed." These phrases occur in a novel I'm reading; the speaker is (presumably) a gynecologist or CNP who is counseling a patient about a second-trimester abortion. I Googled and searched various medical encylopedias and came up empty. What is "tab-gen"? And are lams some kind of abortifacient suppository? Thanks.
posted by scratch at 12:10 PM PST - 8 comments

Advice on PS2 controllers?

I need a PS2 controller that won't cripple my hands. [more inside]
posted by luneray at 12:04 PM PST - 7 comments

How to get my renter's insurance to cover the whole apartment

I have renter's insurance; my roommates don't. Some of our "common area" things (TV, couch, microwave) belong to them. If I purchased these items from them for a paltry amount ($1), would my insurance cover them should an emergency occur? [more inside]
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 11:42 AM PST - 13 comments

Because it's never too early

I'm 20. How do I go about preparing a legal will and ensuring it will be paid due attention if I should die? And who should I pick as my executor? I live in Maryland. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:36 AM PST - 8 comments

Psychologist looking for work with children in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina

Help a child psychologist find a job working with children in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina. [more inside]
posted by abbyladybug at 10:56 AM PST - 7 comments

Hello Cats & Kittens...

I'm going to be out of work in two months (happily), and one thing I'm thinking of exploring is radio, both for the sheer fun of it and maybe as a career choice since when I was a kid I desperately wanted to be Johnny Fever. I have a voice for it, I'm told, and the music knowledge, and the patter. I realize that I'll have to start out doing it for free at a college station or something, but that's cool. So, how does one go about doing this? Be as detailed as possible. [more inside]
posted by jonmc at 10:43 AM PST - 32 comments

Levis 516: Where in the UK?

A short while back, Levi's stopped making the 516 jeans, and the only ones that I can find in the UK are via eBay at around £70 a throw. Are there any UK-available jeans that are in the same style as the original 516's? Are they available online?
posted by gaby at 10:23 AM PST - 0 comments

Michael Schumacher you ain't, honey...

Driving a Stick: Help settle the debate before I shove the gearshift up my boyfriend's wazoo... [more inside]
posted by romakimmy at 10:21 AM PST - 48 comments

Bluegrass guitar or mandolin teacher in NYC?

I'm looking for a bluegrass mandolin and/or guitar teacher in new york city - specifically someone near Columbia University or on the upper west side (or who would travel there for lessons). Have tried finding one on craig's list and looked at flyers at music stores. Any suggestions on how to find such a teacher, or knowledge of such a person?
posted by davidvan at 10:21 AM PST - 9 comments

HELP! I need a personal assistant

I NEED HELP! I have quite a few projects that are in process and I need a personal assistant, girl/man friday, someone who can handle the little stuff while I do the heavy lifting. [more inside]
posted by elle.jeezy at 10:18 AM PST - 35 comments

Kids Treasure Hunt Logistics?

How should I organize or structure a Treasure Hunt for eight 5/6 year olds at a birthday party? [more inside]
posted by chr1sb0y at 10:12 AM PST - 10 comments

Live Video Mixing in FCP?

Help me edit video in real-time, from two recorded feeds of the same event! [more inside]
posted by provolot at 10:04 AM PST - 4 comments

How to navigate to UT campus?

Help me figure out where to live in Austin, Texas, while attending UT. Is it better to plan on walking or biking to campus, or is driving-and-parking viable? Or is there some kind of bus service that's the best bet? In any case, are there any neighborhoods where I can find a small house with a yard (I have a dog) for, say, $1200 a month or less? Thanks.
posted by lustra at 10:02 AM PST - 17 comments

How should I handle a psychiatrist appointment on a day when I feel fine?

After struggling for years with depression and anxiety I've finally worked up the nerve to see a psychiatrist about it. When it's bad, it's really bad — can't-leave-the-house bad, end-up-in-the-hospital bad — but the past week or two have been good ones and right now I feel fine. (Not on top of the world, mind you, or otherwise manic, and not numb either — just normal.) How can I make the most of my upcoming appointment with no symptoms to show? [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 9:47 AM PST - 25 comments

Rules, rules, rules

What are "The Rules" for guys? [more inside]
posted by brautigan at 9:39 AM PST - 52 comments

How can I speed up my move to the UK?

I am an American citizen working in a company in the US that has its main outpost in the UK. I've been wanting my company to transfer me there for over two years, and have only really begun to vigorously pursue my aim last November. Currently, all bosses and middle management know about my desire to move, and they support it, but it still seems to be a process that is just dragging along. I've been told that HR in the UK now needs to speak to HR in the US, and that once that happens, I'll know more. This just sounds like it's going to take forever. Is there anything I can do to speed up the process? Would it be wise to contact HR myself?
posted by Lillitatiana at 9:22 AM PST - 3 comments

Will using aerobars on my roadbike strenghten my core?

Will using aerobars on my road bike strengthen (or better yet slim!) my core?
posted by neilkod at 9:15 AM PST - 12 comments

Help me get the most utility out of my vehicle.

Yet another request for car recommendations. [more inside]
posted by COBRA! at 8:51 AM PST - 26 comments

Training for downhill running

Training plan for downhill running race [more inside]
posted by tumble at 8:08 AM PST - 5 comments

How do I give my lady friend an orgasm?

What do I have to do to give my lady friend an orgasm? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:03 AM PST - 42 comments

Do you have any suggestions for a concrete yard garden ?

Do you have any suggestions for a concrete yard garden ? [more inside]
posted by vincentm at 7:02 AM PST - 8 comments

Need cheap computer fast!

A friend with a limited budget is looking to buy a reconditioned desktop computer. What are the best resellers to deal with? Anything in particular I should be wary of?
posted by TheManticore at 6:14 AM PST - 16 comments

The way they use defibrillators is just shocking!

When someone's heart stops and is then restarted with a defibrillator, what are the expected sequelae and the ordinary follow-up? I would assume a visit to the hospital, but what if the incident occurs in hospital? [more inside]
posted by OmieWise at 5:58 AM PST - 2 comments

Running Instiki as a service

Anybody had success running Instiki as a service on XP? [more inside]
posted by mordecai at 2:14 AM PST - 5 comments

Question about the language we use when telling the time.

In time, is the phrase "the back of seven" (for example), just after 7 o'clock or just before 8 o'clock? How does the language we use to tell the time vary from place to place? [more inside]
posted by Nugget at 2:07 AM PST - 48 comments

Questions to ask potentional employer who is an attractive merger target?

I am considering accepting a job offer from a law firm that considered merging with a larger law firm within the past few years. The law firm I am considering going to has a reputation for being a good place to work because of an emphasis on collegiality, balance, etc. Most other firms in the area, including those most likely to be discussed in a merger, don't. What questions should I be asking to ensure (to the extent that I can) that if I accept this job, I won't find myself at a very different type of firm in a few years, due to a merger? I mention that the industry is law only for clarity's sake-- I imagine this scenario is common in many industries, and I'm curious how others have handled the situation.
posted by Harvey Birdman at 12:45 AM PST - 13 comments

How to find an artist to do custom drawings?

What’s the best way to screen an artist’s work and get some custom drawings done? [more inside]
posted by JParker at 12:32 AM PST - 5 comments

April 20

Dog "tucking" me in?

I am curious about a strange "tucking/covering" behavior my dog exhibits... [more inside]
posted by snotloc at 11:27 PM PST - 19 comments

Thanks for requesting more information about visiting Colorado!

I've started getting lots of emails thanking me for my interest in a variety of services/info requests/subscriptions that I definately didn't ask for. Is this some wierd cyberstalking, or is there some new sophisticated type of spam going around? [more inside]
posted by davehat at 11:20 PM PST - 11 comments

Yet another Seattle tourist question, but this time involving parking and recreation equipment.

So one of my buddies back East is flying out here to Seattle tomorrow on business (he's an apparel designer looking for cool inspirational ideas that he hopes Seattle can offer). Where should I take him? [more inside]
posted by johnstein at 10:19 PM PST - 6 comments

Should I get a hair transplant?

I'm 25 and going bald. Should I get a hair transplant? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:44 PM PST - 60 comments

...At what cost?

Are my boss's demands unethical? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:43 PM PST - 19 comments

Peering into the depths of AskMe

Attention optics geeks: Will a flat water/air port affect a lens' minimum focus distance? [more inside]
posted by Popular Ethics at 9:17 PM PST - 6 comments

How to browse Listmania lists on Amazon?

I can't figure out a way to browse Amazon via Listmania lists. Is there any way to do this? They show up on nearly every book page I visit, but I'd like to browse through them by user and topic.
posted by wires at 9:17 PM PST - 2 comments

PAGEKILLER!!!!

PageMakerFilter: How can I make PageMaker 7 and Acrobat 7 Pro play nice together to create 11.25x15 pdfs with a 10x14 live print area, with tabloid size PMD files as a source material. Other help with photos needed as well... [more inside]
posted by weaponsgradecarp at 8:30 PM PST - 6 comments

Can anyone read the characters (Asian) on this bell my friend's had for about 13 years?

IHateHateHatePhotobucketFilter: Can anyone read the characters (Asian) on this bell my friend's had for about 13 years? [more inside]
posted by Lockeownzj00 at 7:38 PM PST - 18 comments

Plato denied Greek inventiveness?

During a recorded history lecture I was listening to recently, the professor mentioned in passing that Plato had said something to the effect that 'the Greeks never invented anything (but perfected what they borrowed)'. Can anyone point me to or quote the actual text in question, if it exists? [more inside]
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 6:56 PM PST - 5 comments

Simple Ajax Commenting Script

I'm looking for a simple Ajax commenting script that will allow commenters on a blog-like site to submit comments without actually leaving the page. I've found the one for Wordpress - but it seems to be a little too specialised for WP templates to be easily adaptable for my site's needs (though I will if I have to). Any links would be much appreciated.
posted by Dag Maggot at 6:44 PM PST - 5 comments

A Grave Problem with HTML Entities.

Is there a Unix/Mac OS X utility that can will batch fix badly-coded HTML entities? [more inside]
posted by Charlie Bucket at 6:40 PM PST - 9 comments

For those nine hours a month when Law & Order isn't on...

I have a multi-pronged question about the soup-to-nuts process of movies getting onto cable television and actors getting their residual checks. [more inside]
posted by blueberry at 5:51 PM PST - 3 comments

College Honors Society

Is it beneficial to join a college honors society? [more inside]
posted by vionnett at 5:47 PM PST - 17 comments

The Lazy Man's Guide to Shakespeare

How can I convert a modern English speech into Shakespearean English, quickly and easily? [more inside]
posted by unclejeffy at 5:43 PM PST - 14 comments

D'oh!

What are some good cartoons, graphic novels, essays, fiction that are about regular life, or a regular guy? [more inside]
posted by joaniemcchicken at 5:35 PM PST - 37 comments

Looking for Science/Technology-related Stock Music from the 70s/80s

I'm looking for 1970s / 80s era stock music that may have been used in technology-related or science-themed documentaries, film-strips, commercials for tech schools, or even narrated science museum exhibits. The music sounds very dated, probably late 70s or early 80's. There is a percolating type of rhythm, and really cheesy sounding synthesizers. [more inside]
posted by BoatMeme at 5:35 PM PST - 13 comments

What the EU will do to protect the Euro.

Can the European Union "take over" a country's economy? [more inside]
posted by easyasy3k at 5:33 PM PST - 7 comments

MLM Management Software

My agency brought on a start-up MLM, and we need to provide software to manage the MLM salesforce, their downlines, commissions, etc. (Yeah, yeah... I know... ). In the past, for our normal clients, we've used SugarCRM to manage customers and the like. I'm wondering: can anyone recommend a good MLM management app — must have an internet interface.
posted by silusGROK at 5:25 PM PST - 8 comments

Teach me make-up!

I'm don't know how to put on make-up. Where do I go to learn? [more inside]
posted by stoneegg21 at 5:19 PM PST - 30 comments

How can I get a shopping cart with ajax-based product previews?

If I wanted an ecommerce site powered by something like osCommerce and I wanted some additional functionality built that gave product previews via ajax, similar to what NetFlix does, where should I look for a programmer to set it all up and about how much should I expect to pay?
posted by fourstar at 5:09 PM PST - 4 comments

Jailbird!

Any tips for serving a 2 day sentence in a Sonoma County, California jail? [more inside]
posted by small_ruminant at 4:59 PM PST - 33 comments

Stay away from the pate pâté

When to use diacritical marks? (or, The coöperative hôtel guest ate pâté.) [more inside]
posted by GarageWine at 4:33 PM PST - 24 comments

Pancake on TV or the Movies?

Working on a project - please scan your memory banks - any TV or movies featuring people eating pancakes in a chain restaurant - preferably friendly not like Jack going off on the waitress in FIVE EASY PIECES ... Thanks!
posted by jbelkin at 4:22 PM PST - 18 comments

Looking for a good book on the history of bureaucracy

I'm looking for a good book on the history of bureaucracy, care to recommend some? [more inside]
posted by Kattullus at 2:50 PM PST - 8 comments

Comcast vs. DirecTV in Seattle Eastside?

Comcast vs. DirecTV in Seattle Eastside? I'm moving soon and need advice on telephone, internet and television. [more inside]
posted by frogan at 2:32 PM PST - 12 comments

Besides, swords are cool.

Help me find the right sword to wear to my dad's wedding. [more inside]
posted by Squid Voltaire at 2:26 PM PST - 22 comments

recover mising hard drive files

my hard drives recently perfomed some weird format-like trick on me recently and i need to restore the data I've tried a couple of different 'repair' programs to no avail. help! [more inside]
posted by quantumonkey at 2:13 PM PST - 5 comments

They get you coming and going...

I'm selling my house myself without an agent. If an agent claiming to be a "buyer's agent" contacts me, tours my house for their client and ends up having their client buy my house, do I have to pay that agent? I didn't solicit their services, so I don't think I should have to pay, but I'm confused about things I've been reading. [more inside]
posted by SheIsMighty at 2:09 PM PST - 13 comments

Where's a gallery of Google's logos?

Where can I find all of Google's logo designs from times past? [more inside]
posted by mrhaydel at 2:06 PM PST - 8 comments

effing eff eff jets effing up my quiet weekend

It's that time again in Louisville, KY, time for a quaint tradition involving jets and fireworks invading my neighborhood. Instead of suffering through it, I've made the decision to escape with my sweetheart and pooch in tow. Now, where to go? [more inside]
posted by cior at 1:53 PM PST - 5 comments

Fonts like Trajan?

I'm looking for a font a lot like Trajan, but with lowercase letters included. Any ideas? Free or low-cost is good, but not required. This is for a website - display, not text.
posted by expialidocious at 1:50 PM PST - 6 comments

hopping mad

1. fail to show up for orthodontist consultation 2. ex-wife gets the account in her name 3. profit! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:29 PM PST - 17 comments

Do my boyfriend and I have a chance at long-term happiness if we lack a hot "spark" when it comes to our sexual attraction for each other?

Do my boyfriend and I have a chance at long-term happiness if we lack a hot "spark" when it comes to our sexual attraction for each other? [more inside]
posted by VegasAnna at 1:24 PM PST - 67 comments

Parental Warning required by Law?

Our band recently recorded, produced, and distributed an album that has an explicit lyric. What are the legal ramifications of distributing music with explicit lyrics without that label? [more inside]
posted by joecacti at 1:10 PM PST - 7 comments

Can I replace the carpet?

When is it reasonable to ask for a new carpet in a long term apartment rental? [more inside]
posted by drewbage1847 at 12:42 PM PST - 9 comments

Exercise question

Need help with my Pull-ups (No not the Diapers...) [more inside]
posted by TheFeatheredMullet at 12:24 PM PST - 24 comments

Help me restart a .jar application

I have an errant .jar file that seems to hang from time to time. I would like to automate it's restart. I know how to perform a close or kill of a standard windows application, how is this done to a .jar file within the Java environment?
posted by kc0dxh at 12:19 PM PST - 7 comments

Whiteout on the index?

Webpage disappearing act: My blog's index page is showing up blank, however all the archived pages are there and function perfectly. What's going on? [more inside]
posted by me3dia at 12:04 PM PST - 12 comments

Legaleasy Rider

Where can I find an inexpensive and concise Motorcycle Safety Course in or around Atlanta? [more inside]
posted by clunkyrobot at 11:45 AM PST - 6 comments

...and a Palm to guide her by...

I recently fell into ownership of a Palm Tungsten E2. I'd like to use this tool to help plan and execute a trip to Ireland that my wife and I will be taking with friends this fall. Help? [more inside]
posted by robocop is bleeding at 11:41 AM PST - 1 comment

Web-based purdy stats package?

Is there a web-based program for collaborative statistical analysis (preferably with pretty pictures)? [more inside]
posted by grobstein at 11:40 AM PST - 1 comment

Joke Copyrights

I'm looking for information on joke copyrights -- specifically, what is considered fair use? Any links to resources on the subject would be appreciated.
posted by paulrockNJ at 11:29 AM PST - 4 comments

Running dongled app on Apple Intel box

I'm thinking about running Windows on an Apple Intel laptop. Unfortunately one of the apps I use needs a hardware dongle on the parallel port. So I'm wondering whether one can attach a USB/parallel adapter, attach the dongle to that (maybe requires a gender bender) and have the app see the dongle that way. Or is the interaction between the app and dongle too low-level for that? Any help would be appreciated. I can't quite bring myself to buy an intel apple, buy windows xp, load it all up, and then find out I'm SOL. Thanks in Advance.
posted by thayerg at 11:28 AM PST - 7 comments

Period Spottage

MenstrualCycleFilter: So it seems that I'm being plagued by light-to-heavy spotting every couple weeks... [more inside]
posted by zippity at 11:13 AM PST - 17 comments

How can I archive thousands of gmail messages?

I've fallen far behind in archiving my gmail Inbox and would like to clear it out. How can I archive every single message (more than 4,000) that's in there now? [more inside]
posted by davebug at 11:03 AM PST - 15 comments

Planning now for better opportunities for my daughter

When it came time for me to think about where my life was going, my parents let me know a couple things: - they made enough money that the Canadian government wouldn't let them off the hook for helping to pay for my education, so student loans were reduced. - they weren't going to/weren't able to help me with paying for my education anyway. Consequently I never went to college or university. I've managed all right without any training or degrees, though not as well as I likely would have. I suspect I will never have time/opportunity/money to fix this. My daughter will be born in late June. What can I do now (in Canada) to make sure she has better opportunities than I did?
posted by Kickstart70 at 10:59 AM PST - 23 comments

the cold water faucet is having revenge on me :-(

How do I unstick a faucet without having the whole thing fall apart on me? [more inside]
posted by mirileh at 10:50 AM PST - 5 comments

A Legend in the Making

You are taking a walk around a public place in your city or town. This place is relatively new to you. If you had the opportunity to annotate a map and 'mark up' five categories of interest or experience, which five categories or types of sites might you choose to identify? Sensory experience? Social interaction? Sites of commerce? None of the above? Be as specific or general as you please.
posted by pinto at 10:44 AM PST - 20 comments

Firefox-arrrgghhhhh!!

Every few minutes or so my Firefox browser freezes up (which freezes up my entire system) and I get an error box eventually that says "A script on this page may be busy, or it may have stopped responding. You can stop the script now, or you can continue to see if the script will complete." Then it gives me an option to "stop script" or "continue". I am tired of doing this every few minutes or so. Please help.
posted by sandra194 at 10:40 AM PST - 18 comments

Desert winds, the call to prayer and a mysterious red soup

When I was in Tunisia a few years ago I had this delicious red soup. What was it? [more inside]
posted by MasonDixon at 10:38 AM PST - 19 comments

You Said You Wouldn't Let go 'Til I Was Ready!!!

Gots me a bike, and now I gots me some questions(Repair cost estimates and what kind of freakin' bike it is, to be precise). [more inside]
posted by Alvy Ampersand at 10:15 AM PST - 18 comments

Help me pass my driver's test. Please!

I need help passing my driver's test. I'm 24 years old, and through a combination of laziness and attending college in a city with a great public transportation system, I managed to avoid driving for most of my life. Until now. So far, I've taken the test twice and failed both times. Each time I get behind the wheel with the examiner sitting right next to me, I get so incredibly anxious and nervous that all of my rational driving skills go out the window. I need all your war stories, tips, tricks, pointers, etc. on how to get through this. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:15 AM PST - 28 comments

Referencing online news in print?

How do you reference an online news source in a print publication? [more inside]
posted by easternblot at 10:05 AM PST - 7 comments

Flying cross country with perishables and meltables?

I'd like to transport frozen food (ice cream) and refrigerated food on an airplane from San Francisco. Is this possible? I think the optimal plan will involve dry ice for the ice cream. Where can I get it in San Francisco? [more inside]
posted by stuart_s at 9:46 AM PST - 11 comments

How to get colors consistant on monitor/printer/scanner?

I need to be able to print/view & scan colors accurately. What is the best way to go about setting up color profiles for multiple printers, a scanner & a monitor for the best "wysiwyg"? [more inside]
posted by Alpenglow at 9:45 AM PST - 2 comments

Give me an L! C! C!

Has anyone ever used low-cost airlines to cobble together a round-the-world-style ticket made up of short-hop flights? Because I'm thinking about it. A lot. [more inside]
posted by mdonley at 9:41 AM PST - 17 comments

What's my NeXT step here?

I inherited a NeXT machine. How can I start from scratch on it? [more inside]
posted by tkolstee at 9:40 AM PST - 9 comments

Dans improvisation music

Looking for light music with "easy" rhithm for dans improvisation lessons. [more inside]
posted by Akeem at 9:25 AM PST - 3 comments

Where (besides craigslist) should I look for clever Flash designers?

Our company creates Flash presentations used in marketing (mostly) IT products and services. You can see the kind of stuff we do on our website, linked in my contact info. We do the research and writing -- where need help is in coming up and executing animation ideas. Only very basic Actionscript is required.
posted by bmckenzie at 9:07 AM PST - 3 comments

Where can I find Noggin commercials set in a workplace?

I'm looking for digital versions of a group of commercials for Noggin. [more inside]
posted by gnomeloaf at 8:16 AM PST - 10 comments

How do I control quackgrass?

What to do about quackgrass. [more inside]
posted by Todd Lokken at 7:40 AM PST - 11 comments

The $25 might be the easy part...

What is involved in, or how would you write, "a letter of reference stating the applicant's high standard of character"?
posted by NotMyselfRightNow at 7:38 AM PST - 7 comments

Clean up on isle five

Where does the phrase "clean up on isle five" come from and what exactly does it mean? [more inside]
posted by bloo at 7:27 AM PST - 28 comments

Baseball commissioner warned before fatal heart attack?

Did a doctor see Bart Giamatti on television and warn him he was about to have a heart attack? [more inside]
posted by staggernation at 6:44 AM PST - 6 comments

Mac-friendly Online Broker

I'm searching for a Mac-friendly online trade broker. Something with great tools that I can use for up-to-the-soonaspossible statistics and whatnot. Any recommendations? [more inside]
posted by travis vocino at 6:26 AM PST - 4 comments

Mt. St. Helen's or Mt. Rainier?

I'm going to be in Seattle for a few days and wonder what's a better day-trip for a couple of hours of hiking--Mt. St. Helen's or Mt. Rainier? What's the general travel time by car between Seattle and either of the two parks? Which offers the most scene route? I'm a light hiker, good for 2-3 hours or so. Would welcome route recommendations as well.
posted by quintno at 6:14 AM PST - 13 comments

IP scanning program

I am looking for a good IP scanning program. I have been using Superscan, and Angry IP scanner. But both are lacking in some ways. [more inside]
posted by JonnyRotten at 6:12 AM PST - 5 comments

Canon SLR Lens advice

Need advice on Canon SLR Lenses [more inside]
posted by arabelladragon at 5:08 AM PST - 15 comments

Having trouble with my English lit.

Could someone please explain to me what narrative level 'The Great Gatsby' is in [more inside] [more inside]
posted by MoralAnimal at 5:03 AM PST - 13 comments

HttpPost using Flash 8

I wondered if someone could point me in the right direction on a problem I'm having http-posting from Macromedia Flash 8. [more inside]
posted by seanyboy at 3:40 AM PST - 4 comments

How do I extract hundreds of attachments?

I need help extracting hundreds of attachments from Mozilla Thunderbird. [more inside]
posted by fake at 1:32 AM PST - 6 comments

April 19

What should a dropout in debt do?

I need to get on the right track to fixing my life. [more inside]
posted by Hot Like Your 12V Wire at 11:29 PM PST - 35 comments

Why can't I open pdf's in Firefox?

Recently, Acrobat has stopped opening pdf's in my firefox browser. It works fine in internet explorer, but I'd rather stay away from that particular program. I've tried reinstalling, updating, changing preferences and more. Anybody else experiencing this? [more inside]
posted by gilsonal at 10:45 PM PST - 12 comments

Dating Women Who Are Friends W/Each Other?

I'm in a situation where two girls who are friends with each other have both given me their phone numbers (in the context of a speed dating situation). This is not a secret to either of them. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:21 PM PST - 34 comments

Mortgage Matters

MoneyFilter: What should I do with my adjustable-rate mortgage? [more inside]
posted by wintermute2_0 at 9:13 PM PST - 19 comments

How should I approach screenwriting?

Writing for the silver screen (from a novice's view). I have the idea that I can write a few good scripts (screenplays) and if they make the grade, find an agent and make some side money. What is right and/or wrong with this idea? [more inside]
posted by snsranch at 8:02 PM PST - 32 comments

ISO kitschy 80s necklace

Does anyone remember the plastic chain charm necklaces that were such a hit in the 1980s? [more inside]
posted by brina at 7:25 PM PST - 15 comments

Filemaker Automation/Scripting

I need some help with Filemaker. I think that there is more of my work that I can make it do. [more inside]
posted by rossination at 7:18 PM PST - 3 comments

Webservice n00b needs Axis assistance.

So I'm trying to implement a webservice for a class project using Apache Axis, and I'm having some weird classpath (I think) issues. [more inside]
posted by middleclasstool at 7:01 PM PST - 6 comments

J'adore l'amour et le soup de jour.

Bi- and multilingual mefites - in languages other than English, what are the generic rhymes that appear again and again in lyrics and poems? [more inside]
posted by RokkitNite at 6:56 PM PST - 27 comments

Am I unable to find a suitable online quiz script? Yes/No/Maybe

Online multiple choice/personality quiz script frustration. [more inside]
posted by nylon at 6:42 PM PST - 7 comments

How can I prove I legally can play back copied music at a business?

Where can I find clear and direct laws regarding the playback of backed-up music at a place of business in the United States? [more inside]
posted by Dean Keaton at 6:40 PM PST - 25 comments

Free sheet music: Canon in D ?

Canon In D: "Pachelbel's Canon" sheet music for viola and cello. Dad's having problems finding downloadable FREE sheet music for his high school-aged daughters. [more inside]
posted by spock at 6:39 PM PST - 5 comments

What do know about Clear Direction?

Ever heard of Clear Direction and its relation to formal axiology? Is it scammy? Legit? What can you tell me about it? [more inside]
posted by climalene at 6:30 PM PST - 1 comment

Transitioning from an intimate online relationship to real life?

I've been talking with a wonderful person online, and we're meeting up soon. But I'm at a loss as to what we should converse about, and it's not because we don't have anything in common! Please suggest areas of conversation! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:41 PM PST - 17 comments

Free MBTA on Earth Day '06?

BostonFilter: I'm annoyed that I can't find info about this online anywhere, but is the MBTA doing their usual fare-free subway and bus rides on Earth Day this year (4/22)? I'm having a housewarming party that day, and I want to invite all my out-of-town friends up early to frolic around town. Their Web site tells me nothing, nor does Boston.com.
posted by mykescipark at 5:37 PM PST - 5 comments

What was this song?

Can you help me identify this song? [more inside]
posted by 327.ca at 5:21 PM PST - 8 comments

Are Brain Sparks bad/dangerous?

What, why and how are Brain Sparks? [more inside]
posted by slactoid at 4:55 PM PST - 28 comments

How to make a bright room a little more musical

Looking for techniques on how to deaden an isolation booth in which we are recording drums. [more inside]
posted by jon_kill at 3:39 PM PST - 15 comments

How do I create a video screen array?

A/V nerdfilter: I'm looking to control a 9x9 array of LCD screens driven by a computer for an art installation. What's the best/cheapest way to set this up? [more inside]
posted by unlicensedarchitect at 3:34 PM PST - 13 comments

Music Box/Carousel Music

Where can I find mp3's of music box/carousel type music? [more inside]
posted by Doug at 3:25 PM PST - 3 comments

Good tattoo places in PDX?

Where should someone get a tattoo in Portland? [more inside]
posted by pdb at 3:20 PM PST - 6 comments

What are the hep cats spoutin'?

What's the new word for "cool"? [more inside]
posted by team lowkey at 3:08 PM PST - 153 comments

Tracking referrer links and traffic to livejournal?

What are the best ways to track referrer links & to track traffic to a Livejournal account or community? [more inside]
posted by tastybrains at 2:39 PM PST - 1 comment

macmini or not

I was looking to get a nice big Apple cinema display for photo work (photoshop, etc.), a bit of web page design, and the like. Question is, if i'm not doing anything else that hardcore -- editing full-length movies, etc. -- could I just get a Macmini to run the applications? I could save a lot of dough over buying a full G5 ... any thoughts?
posted by jgballard at 2:31 PM PST - 15 comments

How can I keep a sealed room cool?

I live in a converted warehouse space, and my bedroom has no windows and isn't against an outside wall. Because of allergies to my roommate's dog, I prefer to keep my door closed. Any tips on cooling a sealed room? [more inside]
posted by billyfleetwood at 2:29 PM PST - 9 comments

Why are pigeons disdained?

I'm going to buy a bird-feeder for my back garden, but I roll my eyes at the old lady down the road that throws bread crusts on to the pavement for pigeons? Am I a hypocrite? [more inside]
posted by calico at 2:24 PM PST - 12 comments

Road Block

I recently bought a house that fronts a busy street that is also quite popular with the bass thumping, custom exhaust crowd. Anyone have any advice on building a tasteful noise abatement fence or wall? [more inside]
posted by TahitiBlue at 2:21 PM PST - 15 comments

I want a new car!

I got a 2002 Subaru Legacy GT wagon for my 16th birthday and I hate it. It's slow, boring, and gets about 20 MPG. (more details inside) I would really love to get a new car, probably for 12k max. any ideas on getting my parents to let me get a new one? [more inside]
posted by joshuak at 2:04 PM PST - 77 comments

Web 2.0 news sites?

I'm trying to get into the spirit of "Web 2.0"-ish news sites -- the ones that let users tag, vote on, share and produce their own stories. But contrasted with the fireside feeling of reading blogs, the news-aggregator experience has seemed sort of cold, fragmented and short on users. What hot, promising or lively user-generated news services have you discovered?
posted by johngoren at 2:03 PM PST - 2 comments

I'm thinking not Kudzu, smartass.

I'm building a dingus (a pavilion, pergola, what have you) similar to this, and I'd like to get some fast growing leafy vines to provide shade in the summer. I live in upstate New York (zone 3 or 4), and the area will get a good amount of direct sun. Any suggestions? I was thinking American Bittersweet - any pros or cons to that?
posted by juliewhite at 1:46 PM PST - 13 comments

Ford Pickups

I was just reading about how those massive, gas-hogging Ford F-350 etc pickup trucks are the bestselling "cars" in the United States, by a huge margin. While this seems absurd during $3 a gallon gas, I wonder when this started becoming the case that pickup trucks were the top sellers. This is just anecdotal, but it seems to me that in the 1970s the only people who drove the then quite smaller pickup trucks were people who used them for work. I can't quite believe there are that many independent contractors in the US who need to buy these outsized vehicles. As they suffer (most seemingly quite rightfully) at the pump, does anyone know where to find historical car sales data -- i.e., when did Ford pickups become the most popular car in America?
posted by dearleader at 1:46 PM PST - 30 comments

Need miniature cans or bottles ....

I need miniature cans or bottles. I need approx. 200 in each of four colors, with a diameter of about half an inch. [more inside]
posted by blueshammer at 1:46 PM PST - 4 comments

How do I send a broadcast phone message?

I'm looking for a free service or free software that will allow me to send broadcast phone message(s) to several group members? [more inside]
posted by johnd101 at 1:22 PM PST - 4 comments

Boss key software with Russian flag icon?

I'm looking for a specific software program I used a few years ago. It was one of those "boss key" programs to hide windows you're working in. [more inside]
posted by etoile at 1:12 PM PST - 6 comments

How do I file taxes 2 years late on the cheap?

Tax Filter: I still haven't filed my taxes from 2 years ago. Mainly because I am not sure what the cheapest, easiest way to do it is. Please advise this procastinator! (more inside) [more inside]
posted by Parannoyed at 12:49 PM PST - 10 comments

How to get a job sea kayaking?

Where can I get a job as a Sea Kayak guide with little/no previous experience? [more inside]
posted by myodometer at 12:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Including the same ASP file across several websites all hosted on the same server?

ASP include files. Is there a way of including the same ASP file across several websites all hosted on the same server? [more inside]
posted by derbs at 12:36 PM PST - 5 comments

Free poly-sized pixel fonts?

I'm looking for more fonts like Terminus. Terminus is a free pixel font that comes in multiple sizes. [more inside]
posted by bkudria at 12:31 PM PST - 5 comments

NOT gone fishin'

Do I need to go through "sportsman education training" in order to obtain a New York State fishing license? [more inside]
posted by ducksauce at 12:03 PM PST - 3 comments

Spanish food, Polish language

An odd one and a tough call, perhaps, but it would make life easier: are there any Polish speakers out there who could point me to a Polish-language recipe site containing recipes for Spanish dishes, in Polish? And since I don't speak Polish, could you give me some direct links to the relevant pages?
posted by Holly at 11:57 AM PST - 4 comments

Windows app that provides visual cue when sound is played?

I am looking for a Windows app that provides an onscreen visual cue when any sounds are played. It would be nice if the cue happened regardless of the status of the master mute. I'm having a tough time searching for this type of app without getting volume control widgets, etc. [more inside]
posted by ding3r at 11:57 AM PST - 4 comments

Best body shop in Boston?

Good people of Metafilter, what's the best place in the Boston area to get a car repainted? [more inside]
posted by killdevil at 11:57 AM PST - 4 comments

Would you like to restart your computer now, or later?

I never restart the computer when I install things on Windows XP. I go weeks without rebooting, installing multiple programs. I've never had a problem. Two questions: 1) Why do so many programs require this? and 2) What's the potential for harm from ignoring their suggestion?
posted by pornucopia at 11:26 AM PST - 9 comments

What is the best recent sportscar between 20K and 30K?

Best performance auto between $20K and $30K? [more inside]
posted by 1024x768 at 11:13 AM PST - 68 comments

How do I choose between different perl modules at compile (such as it is) time?

mod_perl madness! How do I choose between different perl modules at compile (such as it is) time? I'm trying to get a program to be able to run under either mod_perl or mod_perl2 (apache 1.3.x and apache 2.0.x, respectively). Almost all of the version specific stuff can be abstracted out, except... [more inside]
posted by Captain_Tenille at 11:07 AM PST - 8 comments

How to accentuate the positive in a resume?

How do I tailor my resume to a position I have no direct experience in? Bonus: What to do about employers who think I want to have babies? [more inside]
posted by jessica at 10:31 AM PST - 13 comments

How to best teach children memory techniques to remember long numbers?

How to best teach children memory techniques to remember long numbers? I'm talking of mnemo techniques where you associate pictures to numbers. Like a wheel represents 0, a candle represents 1, a swan represents 2, etc. I know how to learn these as an adult, but are there any strategies adapted to children?
posted by Daldianus at 10:27 AM PST - 5 comments

Help! Save us from death by dogfart!

DogFartFilter: My 2 year old Catahoula mix has truly repellant flatulence. Bad enough to make me leave a can of Ozium in each room. How can we turn down the stink volume on her gas? [more inside]
posted by fenriq at 10:02 AM PST - 20 comments

She Went Along with the Law and She Won

My wife showed up to traffic court to take her lumps, but the clerks were mass-dismissing cases without even letting people in to see the judges. What gives? [more inside]
posted by mph at 9:52 AM PST - 12 comments

Help me build mental stamina

I'm interested in any tips, tricks, and advice on cultivating mental endurance. [more inside]
posted by moira at 9:50 AM PST - 13 comments

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner?!?!

Ok, somebody HAS to know where this is from. I've been hearing it a lot lately and am pulling my hair out trying to figure out where this saying originated. If you know where the phrase "Winner winner chicken dinner" came from, please let me know. Thanks!
posted by charlesroper at 9:48 AM PST - 7 comments

How to create multiple fat32 partitions

What's the best way to create multiple fat32 partitions on an external harddrive? [more inside]
posted by dial-tone at 9:47 AM PST - 5 comments

Bi-Directional Synchronization of database changes in mySQL and Access

How can I implement bi-directional synchronized table changes in a mySQL database and Microsoft Access? [more inside]
posted by mic stand at 9:33 AM PST - 6 comments

How do you use the OTB?

Help me use the Off Track Betting facility. [more inside]
posted by miniape at 9:31 AM PST - 3 comments

India(na) pencroft

What should I do in Hyderabad, India? [more inside]
posted by pencroft at 9:24 AM PST - 8 comments

Why does my heart rate vary drastically day-to-day during cardio?

Why does my heart rate vary drastically day-to-day during cardio? 120 one day then 160 the next under same conditions. [more inside]
posted by wolfkult at 9:10 AM PST - 12 comments

Will The Combined Score Of Tonight's Game Be Odd Or Even?

Baseball Score Probabilities: Is it any more likely that the combined score of a Major League Baseball game will be even than odd (or vice versa)? [more inside]
posted by The Bellman at 9:09 AM PST - 16 comments

Outlook Express Ruined My Life

My outlook express kept suggesting I "compact" deleted messages to save space. I finally acquiesced, and now the messages in my inbox and every deleted message from the last year are missing. Any idea whether they're recoverable?
posted by mert at 8:29 AM PST - 4 comments

Nuclear apocalypse obsession?

Is there a name for a morbid obsession for apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic everything?? [more inside]
posted by ArchEnemy at 8:23 AM PST - 20 comments

Engagment Edibles

I need some tips on food that go with the words "Will You Marry Me?" [more inside]
posted by Smarson at 7:17 AM PST - 35 comments

I wouldn't join any club that required my member

How would one go about joining the Mile High Club? [more inside]
posted by DragonBoy at 7:08 AM PST - 13 comments

dear china, let me in, please please please!

remember that time i was going to china? i need to pick up our visas (which are ready), but it looks like the visa office is closed (for 'office overhaul') for the next 2 days, and our flight leaves before the office opens friday! help! [more inside]
posted by soma lkzx at 6:47 AM PST - 10 comments

one more suicide...

How do I get ahold of a suicide note? [more inside]
posted by trinarian at 6:46 AM PST - 16 comments

Smoke gets in your eyes

What exactly happens when a smoke detector alarm in a plane is disabled? (more inside) [more inside]
posted by dances_with_sneetches at 6:33 AM PST - 5 comments

QuickTime very, very unhappy

QuickTime, (and QuickTimeAlternative) can't play sound correctly and hangs after any interaction. [more inside]
posted by NinjaTadpole at 5:50 AM PST - 5 comments

Teach me to use a notebook

Please teach me how to use a notebook. Yes, the paper kind. I've tried to go paperless, but I find that there are too many constraints to taking notes on a computer. I like the advantages of using a notebook: freedom, doodling, portable, easy to page-through and review. Ideas just flow when I use paper and a pen. I find that I don't review notes kept on my computer. With a notebook, I can page through a find ideas and thoughts from last month. With that said, I have a hard time sticking with using the notebook. [more inside]
posted by jpep at 5:27 AM PST - 20 comments

Yarrr... I don't know what it is

What is this rusty nautical item? (image in the more inside) [more inside]
posted by antifuse at 4:23 AM PST - 64 comments

Televised European soccer in NYC.

Looking for a place to watch the UEFA semifinals near Union Square in NYC. [more inside]
posted by quite unimportant at 4:15 AM PST - 14 comments

Gleaming the Cube: displaying a 3-d box of perspective-transformed bitmaps using client-side web technologies?

How would one create a web page showing a 3D rotating cube, with sides of the cube displaying arbitrary visitor-supplied images as their faces? [more inside]
posted by weston at 3:11 AM PST - 27 comments

Save my suede handbag!

How do I clean a suede handbag? [more inside]
posted by anjamu at 2:46 AM PST - 1 comment

What do we need to know to get married in Japan?

A Tokyo elopement - can it be done? [more inside]
posted by bunglin jones at 1:28 AM PST - 5 comments

Practical Joomla Advice....

Seeking practical advice on starting with Joomla in Dreamhost. After asking about Dreamhost and reviewing different CMS', I've decided on Dreamhost and Joomla for a webpage I'm creating. [more inside]
posted by BigBrownBear at 1:00 AM PST - 11 comments

Bachelor party in Louisiana. Places to stay? Lake house, cabin, boat, yacht, suggestions?

Planning a bachelor party in/or near Louisiana. Looking for either a lake house, boat or other to rent for ~17 people for the weekend. Not the typical New Orleans thing. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by donmayo at 12:37 AM PST - 1 comment

April 18

Bank holiday entitlement...

I am a shift worker in the UK. Am I entitled to a day off in lieu if a bank holiday falls on a rest or non-work day? [more inside]
posted by mikeanegus at 11:51 PM PST - 7 comments

Seattle minigolf?

Mini-Golf filter: Best in the Seattle area? [more inside]
posted by Cosine at 11:42 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I share a newsletter online securely in PDF?

What is any easy way to securely share a newsletter online to my fellow club members?This would entail 100 members downloading 20-30 mb newsletters quarterly. [more inside]
posted by plumberonkarst at 10:56 PM PST - 8 comments

Canvas Prints

My wife wants to start a business making art for kids. She plans to make an original painting and then customize a canvas print with a kid's name. Any suggestions on an inexpensive way to get canvas prints? Any way to order such a service wholesale?
posted by Shanachie at 9:55 PM PST - 5 comments

Preserving recorded sound

In this interesting fpp about the 2005 National Recording Registry, 'audio experts' are quoted as saying "too few people have the skills to preserve many at-risk analog sound materials." Where would one obtain these skills? [more inside]
posted by starscream at 9:46 PM PST - 5 comments

How to figure cost basis for foreign insurance policy that was traded in?

[tax filter] I cashed in a UK endowment policy in 2005. I was paying GBP X per month from Sep 1989 until Apr 2005, and then sold the policy for GBP Y. What is the cost basis for US tax purposes? [more inside] [more inside]
posted by blue_wardrobe at 8:32 PM PST - 2 comments

Contributory Negligence in a hit-and-run

I was involved in an hit and run accident as a pedestrian a little over a year ago, and I've got some questions about contributory negligence. [more inside]
posted by SweetJesus at 8:30 PM PST - 26 comments

C#XMLFilter

I'm new to C# and XML and want to create an XML parser to display weather data. I've seen XML parsers online that read from an XML file, however the XML weather data I want comes from yahoo.com as http://xml.weather.yahoo.com/forecastrss?p=location [more inside]
posted by deeman at 8:18 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me prove the existence of this non existent food.

Help me identify this vietnamese dessert? [more inside]
posted by moonshine at 7:58 PM PST - 5 comments

What is this very generic looking font?

What font is this? [more inside]
posted by FearAndLoathingInLJ at 7:48 PM PST - 3 comments

'Grand Form' Piano Scales?

PianoFilter: I'm a long-time pianist, but for some years (since an aborted college education), I've focused on popular music - or my own pop/rock compositions - to the exclusion of almost anything classical. Now I'm looking to remedy that error. [more inside]
posted by The Confessor at 7:29 PM PST - 4 comments

Please be civil

Has there ever been a study to determine the differences between damage to the vagina found in rape, and damage resulting from consensual sex.... (more inside) [more inside]
posted by sourbrew at 6:13 PM PST - 25 comments

Blargle graaaah ruggl RAKZCH BLAHHHH!

I want to learn everything there is to know about the vocal technique found in metal and hard rock wherein the singer makes his/her voice get all 'raspy'. [more inside]
posted by BruceL at 5:01 PM PST - 11 comments

What do they tell soldiers leaving for war?

Military briefings. A friend of a friend works as a consultant for the military. This person briefs soldiers before they go off on missions. What goes on in these briefings? [more inside]
posted by acoutu at 4:47 PM PST - 12 comments

How to make a decision

How to choose - two roles, both appealing, and only one me. [more inside]
posted by rootz at 4:40 PM PST - 11 comments

Time Life Books

In the early 1970s (?) there was a subscription book series sold by Time Life Books. This was a wonderfully selected collection of reading material that I enjoyed reading every month. My set was destroyed in a fire and I am rebuilding it a book at a time from used book stores. Where can I find a complete list of the paperback titles published by Time-Life Books in this series? I can account for 91 titles. Were there more than 91 titles published?
posted by Raybun at 4:20 PM PST - 5 comments

Can a healthy baby be born from an unconscious mother?

Must a woman be conscious during childbirth? [more inside]
posted by dobbs at 4:07 PM PST - 31 comments

A lovely little baby girl! What will you name her?

My brand new Sony Ericsson W600i needs a female name to match its orange-red exterior. [more inside]
posted by onalark at 4:03 PM PST - 18 comments

Finding a divorce lawyer

How do you find a good divorce lawyer? [more inside]
posted by LittleMissCranky at 3:54 PM PST - 17 comments

Dongle wrangle. Help me fix my Belkin F5D7050.

How do I reinstall my Belkin F5D7050 USB wifi dongle? [more inside]
posted by ajp at 3:45 PM PST - 3 comments

Good machine shop with lasers in LA?

Does anyone know of a good laser-capable machine shop in LA? [more inside]
posted by felix at 3:30 PM PST - 1 comment

Why won't my USB hard drive stay mounted without constant disk access?

My USB2 hard drive will only stay mounted if I keep accessing it. If I don't, within 5 hours or fewer, I can't access files on the drive or even do a directory listing. I can then unmount the HD, power cycle it, and it will mount again as if nothing had happened. If I keep accessing the disk, say by continuously playing an MP3 mix on it, the disk acts completely normal: uptime now (with MP3s playing) is something like 20 hours without the shadow of a problem. [more inside]
posted by rwhe at 2:55 PM PST - 12 comments

Take it off! It burns us, it does!

I've been cursed with very dry skin. [more inside]
posted by koenie at 2:47 PM PST - 39 comments

Oh, what to wear!

Invitation to a ball. Which dress option would you choose? [more inside]
posted by ciaron at 2:27 PM PST - 19 comments

Is it libel?

Libel Filter: I am cutting and pasting this question on behalf of a friend. I have seen question in MF that are kind of similar, but I think this one has a twist. [more inside]
posted by sandra_s at 2:21 PM PST - 11 comments

Identify this film?

Can someone help me identify this movie? It was a late 80s or early 90s film about a young American filmmaker. [more inside]
posted by zaebiz at 2:18 PM PST - 8 comments

The Game of Life

I'm in my mid 30s. I just looked at my retirement accounts (401K, SEP-IRA, stocks and CDs). These also total in the mid 30s. Am I on track? [more inside]
posted by DonnieSticks at 2:12 PM PST - 17 comments

How serious is a 40 mile walk?

My friends and I are considering participating in the Keswick to Barrow 40 mile scenic walk (for charity). We are in varying states of fitness. Are we insane? [more inside]
posted by Acey at 2:06 PM PST - 15 comments

Shipping/Receiving: How-To?

Please tell me everything about shipping and receiving for small business... [more inside]
posted by five fresh fish at 1:55 PM PST - 7 comments

How to publish entire gCalendar?

How can I publish my entire Google Calendar to a website? [more inside]
posted by bison at 1:55 PM PST - 5 comments

Racks for 2003 Matrix?

Any suggestions on roof and bike racks for my 2003 Toyota Matrix? [more inside]
posted by a22lamia at 1:42 PM PST - 12 comments

Rover wants to swim

Are there any dog friendly lakes and swimming holes in the state of California? [more inside]
posted by hindmost at 1:23 PM PST - 8 comments

Gonna make myself a widget...

Where can I go online for cheap, fast manufacturing of a small plastic/foam widget, on the order of 100-1000 in number? [more inside]
posted by griffey at 12:52 PM PST - 7 comments

Video game trivia questions, anyone?

I'm trying to put together a list of good video game trivia questions. [more inside]
posted by starman at 12:44 PM PST - 67 comments

Social Networking Filter

Is there a social networking site that would be the opposite of myspace.com. It's just a little bubble gum for my taste. I joined flork.com and that is a good one but a bit thin in membership. I really like the opinions and attitude here at Meta....I'm not looking to hook up or find a date but meet people with similar world views. Maybe Meta should start a social network....In any event all replies are welcome.
posted by jamie939 at 11:14 AM PST - 16 comments

Recommendations for International Group Alterna-Trips

I’m looking for organizations/agencies that arrange group international travel. [more inside]
posted by bwilms at 10:42 AM PST - 2 comments

What to do about someone spoofing my email?

Recently I have been getting emails from my domain bounced back to me from other peoples' automated anti-spam catchers. The problem is that I am not sending these emails... [more inside]
posted by untuckedshirts at 10:02 AM PST - 14 comments

WinXP install on an iMac: OEM vs Full Retail Boxed versions

I want to install WinXP on my new iMac DuoCore. Is there a difference between using an OEM install disk (legal original) and a full boxed retail install disk? [more inside]
posted by I, Credulous at 9:55 AM PST - 19 comments

Need to colorize my code!

Looking for a decent (free) C# + JavaScript source code colorizer. [more inside]
posted by blahtsk at 9:46 AM PST - 10 comments

Looking for a specific travel blog

I'm looking for a specific blog about a Canadian couple who drove across the 48 U.S. states in a certain number of days, and then later biked across Australia. [more inside]
posted by hooray at 9:16 AM PST - 4 comments

DC area hotel recommendation. No valets please!

Recommendations for one night in DC. No valet parking! [more inside]
posted by daveyt at 8:51 AM PST - 25 comments

XP Media Center & DirecTV DVR connection/set-up

Need help connecting my DirecTV DVR and my new laptop with Windows XP Media Center. [more inside]
posted by Mrs. Smith at 8:37 AM PST - 7 comments

Spam filtering

Lately I've been getting more and more spams where the content is delivered as an image. There's no keywords to filter; even the image filename and subject are random words. Are such messages unfilterable? [more inside]
posted by zek at 8:36 AM PST - 14 comments

Legal basis for disclaiming responsibility

What legal support is there for an entity to disclaim responsibility? [more inside]
posted by toomanyplugs at 8:16 AM PST - 15 comments

Seeking good 'zero commercial' travel resources on the web

This must have been discussed before. But could not find good answers via quick searching. I am looking for good website and blogs that would help me plan trips. [more inside]
posted by flyby22 at 7:37 AM PST - 7 comments

Tag completion mode for emacs or the like?

I have a huge list of unique identifiers. A person needs to enter, for each one of those identifiers, a list of tags, and I'd like to make it really easy for them to tab-complete those tags, based on the ones they've already entered. [more inside]
posted by dmd at 7:34 AM PST - 10 comments

How to choose a new web design firm?

The small (450 students) private school I represent is looking for a new web design/host firm. Our present web firm designed, technically maintains, programs and hosts (through Pair) our site. We do daily updates - new dates, events, etc. We don't know where to begin in looking for a new firm. What is the process? What are the half a dozen critical questions to ask, capabilities to look for? [more inside]
posted by feelinggood at 6:59 AM PST - 7 comments

Want to help me figure out how to figure out what I like to do?

I have a lot of free time now that I'm single again, but I don't really know what to do with it. Help? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:55 AM PST - 22 comments

How to deal with a potential stalker

How to deal with a potential stalker? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:54 AM PST - 31 comments

Deal or No Deal algorithm?

Game show-filter: How is the amount of money the Banker offers the player calculated on the show "Deal or No Deal?" My friends and I typically predict the amount within $10k, but I want to know the exact algorithm. Any ideas?
posted by LouMac at 6:46 AM PST - 18 comments

Best Houston Neighborhoods for a Young Family?

My husband and I (and our five month old son) are thinking of relocating from Austin to Houston, but we really know very little about the area. We're looking for some advice/recommendations about neighborhoods and suburbs in the greater metropolitan area, particularly those within a reasonable commute to UH. [more inside]
posted by roundrock at 6:43 AM PST - 9 comments

Best Photography Courses in London

LearningFilter. Any advice on photography courses in London, UK? [more inside]
posted by the_epicurean at 6:36 AM PST - 3 comments

Windows XP window redraw?

Windows XP: Annoying window "re-draw" animation, make it stop! [more inside]
posted by bradn at 6:15 AM PST - 11 comments

How do you use a light-tent?

I'm about to buy a light-tent to photograph wine bottles for use on a website. Anything I need to know? [more inside]
posted by xoe26 at 4:49 AM PST - 7 comments

How do you make Verizon unsuck?

Need advice on how to get the most from Verizon's mobile phone service... [more inside]
posted by insomnia_lj at 4:49 AM PST - 7 comments

The fine print of universal suffrage.

Who gets to vote in US Presidential elections? Specifically, what are the rules for expats, Guam, and other edge cases? [more inside]
posted by ryanrs at 2:14 AM PST - 4 comments

Any favourite kitchen tunes?

What songs do you love to play while you cook? [more inside]
posted by Serial Killer Slumber Party at 2:14 AM PST - 30 comments

bread and salt and wine and ...

A friend of mine is moving into a new house and I'm planning to bring her bread, salt, and wine on my first visit. Where do I find primo artisan bread in Los Angeles and what reasonably priced wine would the hive mind recommend to go with a meal of bread and salt? [more inside]
posted by rdr at 12:54 AM PST - 17 comments

How do i make contacts for an interview ?

How do journalists make contacts to conduct interviews ? I am trying to write freelance but i need to interview the subjects of my story but many do not respond to my inquiry through email.
posted by Yiba at 12:41 AM PST - 20 comments

April 17

I want to fuck this graphic up. Really make it my bitch, you know?

What's a good way to add a 'distressed' look to a graphic? i.e. if I was screen printing and wanted to make a graphic look old and worn out, like a worn out t-shirt. [more inside]
posted by Paris Hilton at 11:48 PM PST - 11 comments

Finding the best gay bar in the Twin Cities

Best gay bar in the Twin Cities metro area, Minnesota? [more inside]
posted by kavasa at 11:43 PM PST - 7 comments

What clicking tracking services should I use?

Clicking Tracking: there is MeasureMap, PMetrics, BlogBeat, Crazy Egg, but Google Analytics is apparently the best. What other tools and services for tracking your visitors would you suggest? I am about to start a new web design blog, but I don't know which tool I should use. Which are better? Which would you use for blogs and which for "normal" web-sites?
posted by volandmast at 11:23 PM PST - 2 comments

Alternative-education high schools in the Western US?

Do you know of any really neat alternative high schools in the Western United States? What's so neat about them? What ideas from them can I cheerfully steal and use in my own teaching? [more inside]
posted by mhespenheide at 11:13 PM PST - 2 comments

Has anyone ever started a record label?

Has anyone ever started a record label? I would like some advice (other than "Quit while you're ahead"). [more inside]
posted by lovetragedy at 10:58 PM PST - 11 comments

OK UK TV?

I'm an American and I want some recommendations on British TV comedies. [more inside]
posted by Falconetti at 10:28 PM PST - 71 comments

What website has best home painting how-to?

General home painting. Best website for how-to? [more inside]
posted by Dennis Murphy at 10:26 PM PST - 4 comments

Do I have any job prospects?

What can I do with an M.A. in Psychology? [more inside]
posted by Four-Eyed Girl at 9:23 PM PST - 16 comments

This stupid website doesn't like my operating system, help me trick it

I'm currently using a computer with Windows x64 as its operating system and I need to log into a tax website to file my taxes, but the website does not support my operating system. I've tried Firefox, IE, and Opera, so it is definitely the operating system. Is there a plugin for any of the above mentioned browsers that will identify my operating system as plain ol' vanilla Windows XP?
posted by Mijo Bijo at 9:05 PM PST - 11 comments

Help me protect my wallet from my razr

I recently traded in my ancient cell phone for a Motorola Razr (*cringe*) phone. How would I transfer pictures to my computer? [more inside]
posted by special-k at 9:03 PM PST - 9 comments

MLB in Asia

I'm visiting China (Beijing and Shanghai) and Thailand this summer and fall. However, I'm a baseball fan. Does anyone know of any bars or anywhere where I can see some baseball games? I know soccer is huge everywhere but what is a baseball fan to do?
posted by josher71 at 8:56 PM PST - 7 comments

Reelect the President?

Could a two-term President be elected/appointed to be the vice president? [more inside]
posted by blue_beetle at 8:50 PM PST - 12 comments

The best defense is not to defend? Chuck Norris, you're no help here.

I'm defending my M.A. thesis on Thursday. Any pointers? [more inside]
posted by synecdoche at 8:50 PM PST - 18 comments

What life insurance carrier to use?

Recommend a good life insurance provider. [more inside]
posted by BT at 8:30 PM PST - 4 comments

Why does only one egg crack in an egg cracking contest?

So every Easter my family has an egg cracking contest using hardboiled eggs. You pair off with a partner, smash your eggs together, and whoever's egg does not crack goes on to the next round until you are left with one winner. My question is, why does only one egg break? They never both crack, no matter how they are smashed together. [more inside]
posted by banished at 7:56 PM PST - 33 comments

Or will you have to kill me if you tell me?

ParanoiaFilter: Several years ago I was riding down a Southern interstate and I was passed by a convoy of five or so SUVs. Everything except the front windows on the bodies was covered with what appeared to be black padding. No license plates that I could see. They gave me the sense of being military, but what the heck was the padding all about?
posted by thebrokedown at 7:23 PM PST - 16 comments

Teaching English in Germany?

Teaching English in Germany, or other jobs for English speakers for a non-German speaker: possible? how? [more inside]
posted by ori at 7:18 PM PST - 7 comments

Cancer burping question - ovarian lung liver brain cancer

Why do people with cancer burp constantly. My mother, who died of cancer (ovarian) and my brother, who I am currently taking care of (lung, liver and now brain cancer) , both burped almost non-stop after eating and during episodes of nausea and extreme pain or discomfort. Just curious. I don't want to ask this in front of my brother at his doctors appointment. Thank you in advance...
posted by orlin at 7:08 PM PST - 10 comments

Set 'em up, sport.

Which sports-team names are references to drugs or alcohol? [more inside]
posted by box at 7:07 PM PST - 14 comments

Red goes to ground, right Sparky?

How to: multiple fluorescent light fixtures on one circuit [more inside]
posted by plinth at 6:53 PM PST - 7 comments

Little Old Lady from Pasadena Seeks Car Insurance

Car insurance options for someone who scarcely drives in California. [more inside]
posted by Scram at 6:38 PM PST - 10 comments

Japanese Clothes in Chicago?

Are there any stores that sell traditional Japanese clothing in the Chicago area? [more inside]
posted by Mr.Encyclopedia at 6:21 PM PST - 3 comments

Sliders

Digital work to slides, online. [more inside]
posted by monkey!knife!fight! at 6:16 PM PST - 3 comments

How to record IPTV?

Is it possible to record IPTV? [more inside]
posted by puffin at 6:06 PM PST - 4 comments

What Happened to U.S. Oil Production?

I remember back in the eighties when a huge output of oil came from the United States, particularly three states: Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. My question is simple - What Happened??? Why isn't there a lot of oil coming out of those states anymore? I have heard about "capped" wells and don't understand. Are companies still drilling in the oil rich states? If so, why can't it be increased to deal with the current Middle East oil supply? Inquiring gasoline consumers want to know!
posted by Gerard Sorme at 6:04 PM PST - 21 comments

sticker me

Where can I order custom vinyl stickers? There's too many choices on teh interweb! [more inside]
posted by whatitis at 5:49 PM PST - 9 comments

best mini or micro tuner?

What are the best mini or micro radio tuners? The PAL radio by Henry Kloss is good, but to big. Some thing that can be carried on ones person would be good.
posted by flummox at 5:35 PM PST - 2 comments

"THAT GIRL IS HOT", but from where?

TV song filter: What song clip was featured in a recent episode of "The Loop" on Fox? [more inside]
posted by Mark5four0 at 4:57 PM PST - 2 comments

Cheaper to be veg?

On balance, can I save money by moving to a vegetarian diet? [more inside]
posted by Jimbob at 4:40 PM PST - 23 comments

Buying gloves in Toronto

Where's the best place to buy gloves in Toronto? [more inside]
posted by orangskye at 4:37 PM PST - 2 comments

Swamp gas?

Research: Where should I look for stories or journalism about the type of thing that happened in the Superdome during Katrina, specifically where people believed (and reported to the press) that they had seen horrific acts that later were determined never to have taken place? I'm not even sure what the correct term would be (mass hysteria?) but I'm interested in the unreliability of primary sources in journalism, especially as it relates to Katrina.
posted by klangklangston at 4:05 PM PST - 11 comments

How to run simple statistical analyses on tab-delimited data in Word docs?

I want to take a bunch of numerical data (say, survey results) found in Word documents in roughly tabular form (though not in tables per se) and run simple statistical analyses on them. What's the best way to do this? [more inside]
posted by shivohum at 4:00 PM PST - 10 comments

Free Bell ringtones anyone?

My daughter's exhaustive search on the internet for free Bell ringtones for her Kyocera 5135 cellphone ended in her being empty-handed (and rather grumpy). Help me find some. [more inside]
posted by rinkjustice at 3:56 PM PST - 3 comments

Quest for a short domain

How can I get a list of every unregistered 4-letter domain name? [more inside]
posted by reklaw at 3:35 PM PST - 24 comments

My Little Telephony

We've decided to get rid of our landline and go with a softphone. The question is: which to choose? We have cable internet. We'd need call in (our own phone number) and call out (ability to call landlines from our PC). For the most part, we'd be talking to people with landlines. I know we can't dial 911 with these-- we have an old cell phone (no more minutes left, but kept charged up) for this purpose. What's better? Skype? Gizmo? Yahoo? Or something else? We know that USB handsets are available with Skype-- what about the others? Also, how would this work with a home network? Are we restricted to calling from one PC or can we do it from any PC in the house?
posted by Shoeburyness at 3:26 PM PST - 8 comments

Should I buy a camera over eBay?

How crazy am I to consider buying a camera over eBay? [more inside]
posted by docgonzo at 3:21 PM PST - 23 comments

When an actor dies, does their character live on?

How have different tv shows or movie franchises dealt with the death of actors between episodes/seasons/films? [more inside]
posted by Robot Johnny at 2:43 PM PST - 54 comments

Does NO2 really aid lifting?

Does NO2 actually do any help for muscle building? [more inside]
posted by benjh at 2:12 PM PST - 7 comments

Where should I move?

How do I figure out what city to move to? [more inside]
posted by echo0720 at 2:02 PM PST - 18 comments

Chronic condition, health insurance, small company?

If someone has a chronic health condition, and accepts a job at a small U.S. company, how likely is it that health insurance premiums will go up for employees at that company?
posted by anonymous at 1:57 PM PST - 6 comments

What's this tingling in my doo-dad?

Very rarely after orgasm, I'll get a bizarre, indescribable pain in my penis (this is the reason I haven't been able to google it). It's almost like it's tingling, but in an incredibly uncomfortable way. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:57 PM PST - 11 comments

Why can Tabasco congeal split-pea soup?

Why did Tabasco sauce thicken my split-pea soup? [more inside]
posted by kendrak at 1:48 PM PST - 8 comments

What to sell on eBay?

eBayFilter: A friend is considering selling "stuff" part-time on eBay, but doesn't exactly know what he should sell. [more inside]
posted by bjork24 at 1:39 PM PST - 6 comments

Murphy's Law with Bottled Water

How can I get my computer to work again after spilling water on the keyboard? [more inside]
posted by superbird at 1:29 PM PST - 8 comments

ooh, (ginger)snap!

Do you have the perfect gingersnap recipe? [more inside]
posted by Vervain at 1:22 PM PST - 8 comments

Probiotics vs Prebiotics

We've seen adverts extolling the virtues of probiotics for years, now. On the TV a few minutes ago I was informed that Weetaflakes contain prebiotics. What's the difference? Should I care?
posted by rhodri at 1:06 PM PST - 5 comments

where to go to do some good?

I'm interested in like, traveling and doing some volunteer work. You know, where you go somewhere do some charity work for a week or two, then come home. What organizations arrange these sorts of things? [more inside]
posted by delmoi at 12:51 PM PST - 11 comments

Help Me Pick Out A Clamshell

I'd like my gateway mac to be a 'clamshell' G3 ibook. Is this a wise decision? [more inside]
posted by willmize at 12:38 PM PST - 29 comments

Arizona Tree-filter.

Tree-filter: on I-10, between Phoenix and Tuscon (near Eloy), the interstate cuts right through some sort of tree farm / grove. What kind of trees are they? [more inside]
posted by bshort at 12:08 PM PST - 10 comments

Technologies that outgrow their original intent?

What are some good examples of technologies that end up being used for different or more numerous purposes than originally intended? [more inside]
posted by TunnelArmr at 12:04 PM PST - 39 comments

Business code?

Does anyone know what the tax filing business code is for a graphic designer?
posted by ryanissuper at 11:56 AM PST - 1 comment

Whoever decided that "Break a Leg" means "Good Luck" should be fed to wolves.

Any recommendations for physiotherapists in Vancouver, BC? Alternately, ideas as to what I should look for and/or avoid? [more inside]
posted by solid-one-love at 11:34 AM PST - 6 comments

Does taking garlic pills really help one's health?

Does adding garlic pills regularly to one's intake really help or is this just another fad without merit? [more inside]
posted by Postroad at 11:08 AM PST - 12 comments

Depressed worms

My backyard is infested with suicidal worms. We have a pool. I've left the cover off this winter as it allows the filter to work better, but the bottom of the pool is covered in worms that have drowned themselves. Vacuuming the bottom at least every two weeks. Where are they coming from, as I never see them crawling across the deck towards the pool, even in the rain, and why are they doing this? [more inside]
posted by Keith Talent at 10:58 AM PST - 9 comments

Foot pedals for Macs?

Repetitive stress and foot pedals (for Macs)? [more inside]
posted by louigi at 10:57 AM PST - 10 comments

Linguistics and Cognitive Science

What sorts of things has linguistics added to the field of cognitive science? [more inside]
posted by tranceformer at 10:40 AM PST - 15 comments

Where to find unique DVD packaging?

I'm looking to get a small-run high-quality DVD packaging manufactured in the U.S... [more inside]
posted by still at 10:27 AM PST - 4 comments

How to muffle a drum?

What is the best way to muffle the tone on my drums? [more inside]
posted by BradNelson at 10:26 AM PST - 11 comments

What tool do I need to remove a window gate?

What tool do I need to remove a window gate? [more inside]
posted by AlisonM at 10:22 AM PST - 10 comments

it's a long way to tipperary

I'd like all the info anyone has on flying as a courier to save money on air fare. [more inside]
posted by koeselitz at 9:57 AM PST - 11 comments

Should I give my son a huge bouquet?

What do you do for a boy in a musical? [more inside]
posted by hollygoheavy at 9:37 AM PST - 31 comments

Beans, the musical fruit

I can't make beans. They just fall apart. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by Viomeda at 9:10 AM PST - 15 comments

Morning routine for an internet-addicted college student?

What is the best morning routine, especially for someone who is (a) in college and (b) wants to fight something starting to look like internet addiction? [more inside]
posted by Ash3000 at 9:02 AM PST - 12 comments

Local music from Denmark, Germany, Czech Republic and the Netherlands.

Looking for amazing local music from Denmark, Germany, Czech Republic and the Netherlands. [more inside]
posted by evadery at 8:44 AM PST - 13 comments

Sailboard lessons in NY metro area?

Where in the New York City area (withing 2-hour driving radius) can I take sailboarding lessons?
posted by skwm at 8:41 AM PST - 1 comment

Can I mix different weight oils in my car?

I just got the oil changed in the car. I usually get them to put in 20-50, but this time they only had 15-45 or whatever it is. Problem is that I have about 10 quarts of the former and none of the latter in my trunk. When I top off the oil in the coming months, can I use the heavier stuff, or should I get the lighter?
posted by zorro astor at 8:40 AM PST - 11 comments

Kiteboarding for Newbies

Advice for a perspective kiteboarder? I live right near the beach in Toronto and after a couple of years of watching, I'd like to try kiteboarding. [more inside]
posted by dripdripdrop at 8:21 AM PST - 5 comments

Where to find self-priming tile paint?

I've seen several DIY shows on BBC America where ceramic wall tiles are painted using products described as 'new' - within the last 5 years - tile primers followed by paint and more recently, self-priming tile paint applied directly to the tiles. I've searched DIY sites and googled extensively, but I've yet to find a source in the US.
posted by carriest at 8:11 AM PST - 3 comments

selling my own barbeque/hot sauce

How would I go about selling my own barbeque/hot sauce? [more inside]
posted by yeahyeahyeahwhoo at 8:11 AM PST - 11 comments

Meds for dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome

Our dog was recently diagnosed with a mild form of canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). The vet prescribed 5mg Anipryl, which costs $100/month. I could get generic Selegiline from petmeds.com for $12/month. So I was wondering if anyone has had any experience of CDS in dogs, and using either med. Thanks! [more inside]
posted by carter at 7:36 AM PST - 2 comments

"Oh, this song is very tri/quad/oct/rectangular"

Please define "angular" as an adjective for music.
posted by Homeskillet Freshy Fresh at 7:33 AM PST - 36 comments

Mailing 7" records?

I am selling several rare 7" records on ebay. Since a few of them look like they will sell for $30-$80, I am am now concerned about how to best protect them when I mail them out. Can I cut out cardboard and use bubble wrap or should I purchase boxes specifically made for 45s? Any tips would be appreciated...
posted by toddst at 7:29 AM PST - 11 comments

Cut and Save a .pdf

PDF-Filter: I have to take one (4-page) .pdf file, and save it as two (2-page) .pdf files. One file will be pages 1 and 2, the second file will be pages 3 and 4. [more inside]
posted by kevin_2864212 at 7:26 AM PST - 6 comments

Help a complete novice get into digital photography.

I need help and advice on buying a good digital camera and some resources on digital photography for a beginner. [more inside]
posted by katyggls at 7:19 AM PST - 30 comments

Help me remove PDF DRM

I wish to purchase a book and need it immediately, there is a PDF option but it appears that it uses some strict DRM -- such as only being able to use it on one computer. [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 7:08 AM PST - 16 comments

Lexus watermelon juice?

On the NYT.com front page this morning, there is an advertisement for a hybrid Lexus SUV. It's just a picture of the SUV that says "look at the new Lexus" or something, but at the bottom near the rear wheel there is a watermelon. Why is there a watermelon?
posted by ohio at 6:55 AM PST - 7 comments

spf 15

SPF, gmail and my own domain. [more inside]
posted by striker at 6:54 AM PST - 4 comments

What's so special about Dundas West?

Why do so many people get off the TTC train at Dundas West? [more inside]
posted by reformedjerk at 6:46 AM PST - 11 comments

Is there a good way to offer to help out my boyfriend financially?

I make more money than my boyfriend. Normally this isn't a big deal, and has pretty much never come into play in our relationship (we've been together over a year). But lately he's been broke (his work's dependent on the weather, which has been crappy lately and so he hasn't been able to work much, thru no fault of his own). I'm in a position to help, but the situation seems rather delicate. Thoughts about how to proceed? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:43 AM PST - 26 comments

Help me get accidental crease out or vintage leather and denim jackets.

I have some vintage clothes with permanent accidental creases in unwanted places. I was wondering how to remove them. One on a leather jacket and one is on a denim shirt. [more inside]
posted by lukeomalley at 6:37 AM PST - 3 comments

How do i get $2000 quickly?

MoneyFilter: I need to raise $2000 really quick, any Ideas?
posted by flipmiester99 at 6:01 AM PST - 26 comments

What is the meaning of jacket and sleeve art?

There's a lot of threads here about the meaning of art, and also a lot of great stuff about the beauty of CD cover art. What I want to know, is what it all means. Why do so many CDs featuring a white line art border, sort of like Victorian wall paper? Is there a way to tell what sort of music is inside by the picture outside? Is there a secret language of icons or symbology? Or is it just packaging? And if it is, is there some kind of marketing ploy to attract particular audiences? Does a sepia cover with a guitar and boots always mean country music? How am I being manipulated by album art? And where can I learn more about what it means, not just what it looks like? Thanks
posted by b33j at 5:16 AM PST - 13 comments

Outlook 2003 hangs when saving

I have a user in my org that is having trouble saving off her emails as html items. [more inside]
posted by keep it tight at 4:31 AM PST - 4 comments

Ft Campbell

Looking for advice/information on relocating to Ft Campbell, KY / Clarksville, TN. [more inside]
posted by dicaxpuella at 4:06 AM PST - 3 comments

April 16

Musician seeks 17 others for repetitive good times.

What other orchestral music should I try next? [more inside]
posted by Jon Mitchell at 11:42 PM PST - 19 comments

I need a plan!

I'm going to start my second year of college in September. Only problem? I have no idea which college I'll be at. Help me out. [more inside]
posted by punishinglemur at 9:57 PM PST - 25 comments

Orange County and Contra Costa online records

Where can I find California court records by case number or name search? I'm especially interested in Orange County and Contra Costa counties. I've searched online but can't seem to find a state based online site to look all this up.
posted by skEwb at 9:54 PM PST - 6 comments

Extra!

What set of newspapers and magazines can one read to observe the cross-section of political biases? [more inside]
posted by bargex at 9:50 PM PST - 13 comments

arbitrary domain purchasing

So I was reading a recent, likely-to-be-popular technical book, and I realized that the publisher doesn't actually own the domain name that they're using for a lot of the examples. So I bought it. [more inside]
posted by bingo at 9:23 PM PST - 30 comments

Eyes of blue (that were once hazel)

What would cause change of eye color? Growing up I had hazel eyes. Sometime in my twenties my eyes became blue (I'm now in my 40s). [more inside]
posted by ShooBoo at 8:52 PM PST - 15 comments

three voicemails in three area codes on the cheap?

I'm looking for a way to have three separate phone numbers all in different area codes with voicemail. I've done some research, and know you can do something like this with skype groups, but my experience with dropped calls on skype makes me wary. Does anyone know of any other ways to do this inexpensively? I'm open to VOIP or standard solutions, is skype my best alternative? thanks
posted by debu at 8:50 PM PST - 6 comments

Good printer & laminator in NYC?

Anyone know a good printer & laminator in New York City? I need several hundred attendee badges printed for an event I'm running soon in New York, and I need a good recommendation for a company that can print (in color), with individual attendee names on each badge, and then laminate and hole punch the badges.
posted by mark7570 at 8:33 PM PST - 2 comments

Not exactly Rosebud

Tired Of The Same Old Shit? [more inside]
posted by docpops at 8:10 PM PST - 7 comments

Self-help to deal with my social problems?

Is there a self-help book to help me cope better in social situations? [more inside]
posted by saraswati at 7:02 PM PST - 19 comments

Think Tanks around the corner

I find it interesting to peruse The Wallace Foundation and The Rand Corporation papers and research, what other "think tank" organizations should I look at?
posted by bigmusic at 5:12 PM PST - 13 comments

testing for date rape drugs part of rape kit??

I was wondering about rape kits used to collect bodily evidence after... [more inside]
posted by TheLibrarian at 5:11 PM PST - 4 comments

More Ask.Metafilter like resources..

I am looking for other online resources like Ask.Metafilter, where one can post questions and expect answers of a quality similar to that of those found here. Forums, mailing lists, yahoogroups etc (among others) that one can post general questions to and also those dealing with very specific subjects. A few subjects that I am particularly looking for are: Science (biology and chemistry in particular) math Psychology English Language and Literature Philosophy Writing Suggestions on your areas of interest would also be welcomed. Google throws up a lot of alternatives but I just wanted to pose this question here in the hope I'd get some tried and tested recommendations Thanks! P.S. I did try signing up at the WELL of Salon fame but found it too meandering for my taste.
posted by sk381 at 4:50 PM PST - 15 comments

My Outlook backup, my exchange provider, and a mess.

My Outlook backup, my exchange provider, and a mess. [more inside]
posted by Kwantsar at 4:48 PM PST - 2 comments

How to stop being my own worst enemy

How do I control and/or fix my consistent, internal, self-inflicted judgment & comparison torture? I need advice on how to stop beating myself up in my work, my social and my personal life with my own head! [more inside]
posted by gadha at 4:08 PM PST - 27 comments

Web developer salary check.

I am a Senior Web Developer. I work in Minneapolis/St. Paul. I have a CS degree and I have been at my company for 5 years now (in the industry maybe 6 or so). I work at a big shop with big high profile clients and (i am assuming) larger than normal salaries? I do this stuff during the day: 90% (of my day) HTML/CSS (expert) 8% (of my day) PHP/MySQL (hacker) 2% (of my day) JS & Flash/AS (slacker) So what the fricky frack should I be making? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:06 PM PST - 28 comments

Latest referer scourge?

Any idea what the latest internet referer scourge might be? [more inside]
posted by Steven C. Den Beste at 3:53 PM PST - 3 comments

How can I graciously remind someone of my name?

After much struggle, I am finally getting good at remembering people's names. This new skill has opened a new avenue of embarrassment for me, though. I now frequently greet acquaintances by name, but often when I do so, they can't remember my name even though it's obvious they want to. What's the most gracious way of reminding someone of your name while minimizing embarrassment all around? (posted by amtho's fiance)
posted by amtho at 3:50 PM PST - 20 comments

Good credit card for paying for IVF?

My wife and I are about to go through invitro fertilization and we think we'll need about $20,000. We have maybe half of that now and would like to get a credit card to pay the difference. We're looking for a card that has 0% for a year, preferably some rewards back (miles, cash, whatever), and obviously a somewhat high limit. Our credit is very good so we should qualify for the good deals and rates. Any recommendations for good credit cards that would fit our needs?
posted by misterdot at 3:03 PM PST - 10 comments

The Math of Optimal Shopping Sprees

I need to spend at least $25 at the grocery store to claim a discount. I want to minimize how much I go over $25. I have a list of a half a dozen items I want and their prices. Is there a program that can generate shopping lists that would meet the criteria? I want more than just the optimal list because I can get this discount repeatedly and I don't want to buy the same thing each time.
posted by storybored at 2:28 PM PST - 15 comments

Why won't my palm accept its charge?

Palm Filter: I'm away from home and my palm Tungsten T (that I've had for 2 years) is giving me grief. I only have my usb charging cable with me and, while when it's plugged in to my laptop, the power (and charge indicator) light is on. But when I stop charging (up to four hours so far) there seems to be no charge on the battery. Do I need to bin it? [more inside]
posted by itsjustanalias at 2:16 PM PST - 6 comments

Ol' Scratch and Easter

Why was the Devil associated with Easter? [more inside]
posted by maryh at 1:29 PM PST - 11 comments

Power Move: The Two Finger Scroll

Looking for a driver to use two finger scrolling under Windows XP on the MacBook Pro. [more inside]
posted by jedrek at 12:51 PM PST - 0 comments

What league can I join?

Is there a competitive basketball league for me to join in Brooklyn, NY? [more inside]
posted by Aghast. at 12:38 PM PST - 3 comments

rochesta represent!

Rochester, NY: I am making a welcome kit for a good friend moving there soon. What are the best comic book stores, indie film associations, great theatres, fun markets, cheap eats, coffee joints, weird local nights, etc.? [more inside]
posted by barnone at 12:32 PM PST - 16 comments

Because Joomla angers me.

Fellow webmasters: What content management system is the best for what I want to do? [more inside]
posted by Blandanomics at 12:00 PM PST - 8 comments

Fishing, crabbing, clamming spots at the head of the Chesapeake Bay?

Found a good deal and we plan on visiting Maryland at the end of next month. I believe we are staying at what's considered the head of the Chesapeake Bay - Elke river??? Does anyone know where there might be any good clamming / crabbing spots or what fish we might catch? TIA! :)
posted by Jujee at 11:30 AM PST - 10 comments

What is the meaning of a certain bit of a book's copyright page?

Publishing Filter - what does a particular part of a book's copyright page mean? [more inside]
posted by greycap at 11:14 AM PST - 7 comments

Fortunate son

This thread got me thinking about contemporary protest songs. [more inside]
posted by Astro Zombie at 10:57 AM PST - 50 comments

I really don't know much about speakers

Any danger in positioning a subwoofer directly behind a Cinema Display? [more inside]
posted by sueinnyc at 10:29 AM PST - 7 comments

Old Radeon 32mb graphics card from G4 --> New G5. PCI issues?

Old Radeon 32mb graphics card from G4 --> New G5. PCI issues? [more inside]
posted by icetaco at 9:58 AM PST - 6 comments

Benefits of monastic stay?

I'm thinking about spending some time at a monastery. [more inside]
posted by diocletian at 9:57 AM PST - 8 comments

Market for cartridge games with secrets unlocked?

Videogamefilter: Where can I buy cartridge video games that have the secrets unlocked and saved? [more inside]
posted by vanoakenfold at 9:35 AM PST - 5 comments

What's up with hotel TVs?

Why doesn't the on button work on hotel TV remotes? [more inside]
posted by hoverboards don't work on water at 8:27 AM PST - 11 comments

Zap Lock Bags

How can I make an anti-static bag? [more inside]
posted by landtuna at 6:33 AM PST - 10 comments

What bird is making this song?

I hear a bird from my apartment all morning and well in to the evening. Its call is three notes, in a minor key, descending in pitch. In fact, those three notes sound almost EXACTLY like the first three guitar notes of the Black Crowes' song "Remedy." I can't see the bird. Any help?
posted by trey at 5:06 AM PST - 20 comments

April 15

My Tiny Brain

What's the significance of losing ten percent of your grey matter (cerebral atrophy)? [more inside]
posted by overanxious ducksqueezer at 10:49 PM PST - 13 comments

Strep and/or Pharyngitis

Strep throat and/or pharyngitis question: I'm in Nepal in the midst of an uprising and I've been fighting off a throat thing for months. It's difficult to go see an ENT specialist during a general strike, so I thought maybe someone could give me some medical advice. More inside. [more inside]
posted by AArtaud at 10:46 PM PST - 7 comments

Multiple hard drives and computer games

Is it always best to install a resource-demanding computer game on the system disk? [more inside]
posted by fondle at 10:14 PM PST - 12 comments

"Klopstock!"

Can anyone produce a translation of Klopstock's poem "Der Frühlingsfeyer"? By "produce a translation" I don't mean your own (unless you want to!), but I also don't mean "tell me it's in European Romantic Poetry", since I can't find a copy of that book around nor can I get one in time (by Wednesday). I mean post one, or email me one (in profile), or the like. This isn't schoolwork, though it is related to schoolwork—you won't be helping me cheat or anything like that. (I found this translation online but am looking for something a little more faithful, if possible.)
posted by kenko at 9:58 PM PST - 3 comments

cheap alternative to monitor and tower and keyboard and wires and then and then and then...

[Relatively] cheap alternative to PC? My parents are moving... [more inside]
posted by exlotuseater at 9:04 PM PST - 14 comments

Here's a topic... I mean it's a pretty puzzling one.

Is it just me, or has the verbal crutch "I mean" (used as a conjunction rather than a correction) really flooded into American English recently? Last night I was listening to a radio show and nearly all the callers were doing it. My wife does it. My friends do it. I have to stop myself from doing it. Is this at all new? When did it start? I really don't remember hearing this (or doing this) 10-20 years ago.
posted by rolypolyman at 9:04 PM PST - 42 comments

looking for lesbian erotica published 1920-1940

I'm working on an anthology of lesbian erotica. It needs to have been published between 1920 and 1940 (any country) and should hopefully be in the public domain. I'm looking for short stories or novels (or excerpts of novels), no pictures or poetry. [more inside]
posted by misanthropicsarah at 8:51 PM PST - 11 comments

Having A Mentor That Can Give You What You Want - Fair?

How appropriate is it to consider someone your mentor, when you're hoping he'll grant you with something major in the future? Is this taking advantage of him and the mentorship? Or am I just being paranoid? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 8:36 PM PST - 9 comments

How much to get car repaired after attempted theft?

The used car that I had purchased on Thursday was broken into on Friday before I had registered it. They busted a window, got blood everywhere, stole the cd player, sirius radio, and then tried to hotwire it I guess because there are wires sticking out. I tried to start the car when I found it but the key got stuck in the ignition. It's an 88 Jeep Cherokee. Here's my problem... [more inside]
posted by camfys at 6:27 PM PST - 15 comments

PHP shopping cart

I'm looking for a PHP based shopping cart system that is easy to install, easy to explain to the person adding items to the backend and works with UK-based CC handlers. Any recommendations?
posted by toby\flat2 at 5:16 PM PST - 5 comments

help me locate this underground comix/zine artist who spent time in jail

help me locate this underground comix/zine artist who spent time in jail [more inside]
posted by psychobum at 5:02 PM PST - 10 comments

movin' movin' movin'

Can anybody recommend a moving company in Seattle, for an in-city move? Customer service is at least as important as price.
posted by The corpse in the library at 4:26 PM PST - 5 comments

No officer, just passing by...

Is being in the presence of underage drinking in any way illegal? Under what circumstances? Controlled substance consumption? How is the age of the "witness" relevant?
posted by phrontist at 3:42 PM PST - 28 comments

2 cool 4 pie?

Do I refrigerate a bakery bought pie for tomorrow? [more inside]
posted by bitdamaged at 2:06 PM PST - 9 comments

on SQL and the pancake in the middle.

SQL WTH: various examples given on websites and in a small stack of books don't work. [more inside]
posted by Tuwa at 1:52 PM PST - 9 comments

Mercury in ancient Cosmetics?

Did the greeks, romans, and egyptians actually use cosmetics with a mercury content? [more inside]
posted by SpecialK at 1:12 PM PST - 7 comments

Organizing my music. All automatically.

I've never really bought albums/CDs and ripped them. Atleast not all of them, I probably have like 15-20 albums, but that's it. The major part of my music collection happens to come from the Napster times. Where only tracks would be downloaded, which have little or no filename according to convention. So, I have tracks like "12-Thievery Corp-Fedime's Flight.mp3". I'd like to see this track as "Thievery Corporation - Fedime's Flight.mp3" [more inside]
posted by Devileyezz at 12:44 PM PST - 13 comments

Choosing a community within Jesus' worldwide Church

How do people decide which community of Jesus' church to go to? [more inside]
posted by pettins at 12:42 PM PST - 22 comments

Movie certificates in the 50's/60's

Nowerdays we have ratings on films (PG, PG-13, 15, 18, etc). In the 50's or 60's what was the certificate for the films? [more inside]
posted by spinko at 12:40 PM PST - 2 comments

Risk of talking to a pschologist

Many years ago I did something that was bad and illegal. I've been plagued by guilt and I want to talk to a psychologist about it. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:23 PM PST - 36 comments

Can a sperm donor get immigration?

Can a non-Canadian man donate sperm to a Canadian lesbian couple and use that child as justification to apply for immigration? Furthermore, once his immigration goes through, can the non-carrying lesbian adopt the child and be a legal parent? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:23 PM PST - 17 comments

Is my Powerbook resetting the wireless router in my house?

Weird, weird connectivity problem: apple powerbook to Comcast wireless internet. [more inside]
posted by salad spork at 12:18 PM PST - 8 comments

projector project?

Pursuant to the valuable surround sound system information found here and here, what options do I have with regard to my projector? [+] [more inside]
posted by mwhybark at 12:08 PM PST - 10 comments

Wireless router security:

I have a linksys wireless-G 2.4 ghz router. I use a macbook pro. The set up cd for the router works only on Windows. The router works and i get wireless, but i was unable to set up a security feature. I am guessing anyone in my neighbourhood can use my signal. How can i make this secure if the set up cd with instructions is incompatible with my OS ?
posted by cascando at 11:57 AM PST - 9 comments

Color me silly

ColorManagementFilter: Why are my colors losing vivacity after exporting from Photoshop? Example inside. [more inside]
posted by charmston at 11:26 AM PST - 8 comments

Payday loans?

How do payday loans work? I need $280 NOW and there's no other way for me to get it. My car repairs cost more than I thought. I'm scared!
posted by miltoncat at 11:00 AM PST - 22 comments

How do I help a delusional/pathologically lying friend?

Should we confront a good friend who is either completely delusional or a pathological liar? [more inside]
posted by cilantro at 10:26 AM PST - 27 comments

sound advice

My PC is in the living room. I want to be able to listen to iTunes in the kitchen and the bedroom. I have a linksys router, if that helps. What sort of setup works best for this? Wireless speakers? Which ones. I mostly listen to talk radio and audio books, so I don't need amazing sound. I would love a relatively cheap (under $200) solution.
posted by grumblebee at 9:47 AM PST - 25 comments

Can I "stream" video files from a WinXP desktop to a Linux laptop?

Can I "stream" video files from a WinXP desktop to a Linux laptop? [more inside]
posted by skryche at 9:44 AM PST - 7 comments

How to get clients to respond faster?

Looking for strategies to light a fire under clients. [more inside]
posted by davebush at 9:43 AM PST - 8 comments

foo bar baz; alice bob mallory; aphla ateb

foo bar baz [1, 2]; alice bob mallory [3]; aphla ateb [4] [more inside]
posted by andrew cooke at 8:55 AM PST - 13 comments

Stereo defect

Stereo: What makes it go pop? [more inside]
posted by daver at 8:53 AM PST - 11 comments

External Drive to Boot OSX G4 or Intel Mac?

Are there any external drives that OSX can boot from in both a PowerBook G4 AND the newer Intel Macs? [more inside]
posted by philmas at 8:45 AM PST - 3 comments

What is more environmentally correct?

The refrigerator died. We'll be getting rid of a lot of old bottles - which is environmentally preferable? [more inside]
posted by clarkstonian at 7:44 AM PST - 3 comments

what the hell am I doing?

Do you have to have a Master's degree to get a Ph.D.? [more inside]
posted by Baby_Balrog at 6:13 AM PST - 21 comments

What the font?

Can anyone tell me what's the name of the font I used for this subtitle? (pic inside) [more inside]
posted by krisjohn at 2:47 AM PST - 9 comments

George, WA

The Wife and I will be taking 5 days off in July to see Pearl Jam at The Gorge, just outside of George, WA (ha!). We're trying to book airfare and I'm wondering what's the best way to fly there? Should we fly into SeaTac? Portland? Spokane? We figure we'll have to rent a car no matter what and are fine with the idea of seeing some country. We're flying from Los Angeles (LAX, Burbank, Long Beach and Orange County airports are all an option) and we don't want to have to change planes.
posted by inviolable at 12:39 AM PST - 17 comments

April 14

Help me buy a dress

Help me find dress clothes in San Francisco [more inside]
posted by purplefiber at 10:37 PM PST - 6 comments

'Health is not valued till sickness comes.' - Thomas Fuller

I need to strengthen my immune system. [more inside]
posted by anastasiav at 8:54 PM PST - 25 comments

Did he say "titty" in Russian? What?

This video is ranked #5 on Google Video. What is he saying? [more inside]
posted by generic230 at 8:51 PM PST - 21 comments

CocaliciousFilter: it won't stop crashing, and I haven't even used it yet!

CocaliciousFilter: it won't stop crashing, and I haven't even used it yet! [more inside]
posted by rmm at 8:01 PM PST - 6 comments

Can my map talk to my other map?

I need help on learning fancy new web coding techniques [more inside]
posted by forforf at 7:20 PM PST - 13 comments

Serious business.

What's so special about baby skin? [more inside]
posted by thirteenkiller at 7:20 PM PST - 18 comments

Disposable cameras at our wedding?

at our wedding, should we get disposable cameras for the tables, go for an alternative type of camera (lomo, polaroid), or forgo the whole thing? [more inside]
posted by ronv at 7:15 PM PST - 35 comments

Other things besides drivers OpenFirmware can do.

Can you make something besides a driver run in OpenFirmware? [more inside]
posted by plaidrabbit at 7:02 PM PST - 11 comments

Real World vs Academia, Lose lose?

Is the choice between academia and “real world work” a lose-lose situation? Is it possible for someone with a BA in English to transition into PHD programs involving poli sci, government work, public policy / advocacy thereby offering non-academic options? [more inside]
posted by withdillemma at 6:57 PM PST - 24 comments

You know, because you just don't want the book to be over so soon.

Does any language have a word or phrase for the feeling of sorrow one experiences upon finishing a really good book?
posted by honeydew at 6:30 PM PST - 23 comments

can she travel with an unchanged passport?

We are vacationing in mexico on the 24th, but my wifes US passport still shows her maiden name. Do we have to hustle and get it changed, or will her changed drivers license be enough to get her in and out with her current passport?
posted by fumbducker at 6:27 PM PST - 12 comments

I need a new smartphone. I'm picky.

Do you have a smartphone that you love that matches what I'm looking for? I can google featuresets, but what I'm looking for is personal experiences. [more inside]
posted by cellphone at 5:55 PM PST - 13 comments

Help me paint an ostrich egg

A friend of mine asked me to paint an ostrich egg for her husband. I am happy to do it but I have no idea how. I normally paint in oils on stretched canvas. There is only one egg and I don't want to mess it up. Specific questions are: [more inside]
posted by eebs at 5:22 PM PST - 11 comments

Can I modify my fridge?

Can I remove the freezer from dorm-sized refrigerator without destroying it? [more inside]
posted by goatdog at 5:19 PM PST - 11 comments

Can anyone subtract a phone from a PDAPhone and give me what's left over?

I'm looking for a PDA like this only without the cellphone capibilities, and for a similar price (better yet: lower price!). As always, there is [more inside]
posted by TrueVox at 5:15 PM PST - 8 comments

The Soledad O'Brien Effect

Say that interethnic breeding has created a homogenous-looking mixed-race human species in the far-flung future. What kind of effect would this have on biodiversity? [more inside]
posted by chrominance at 4:50 PM PST - 22 comments

Suits you scheduling

Drycleaninghack filter: How to monitor how many times I've worn a suit so it can get cleaned at appropriate intervals? [more inside]
posted by TrashyRambo at 4:47 PM PST - 18 comments

When will our neighborhood get door-to-door USPS mail delivery?

Why do some neighborhoods get USPS mail delivered to their door (or at least to their property) and other neighborhoods get USPS mail delivered to mailboxes on the street near the recipients' property but not on it? [more inside]
posted by pwb503 at 4:09 PM PST - 13 comments

Where to find a canvas wallet

Where can I find a good canvas (or similar material) wallet? [more inside]
posted by blueplasticfish at 3:49 PM PST - 13 comments

Altruistic adoption?

Should a white couple adopt a black baby? [more inside]
posted by Crushinator at 3:45 PM PST - 25 comments

Let there be light

what is the best way to take down trees of moderate size on my own? [more inside]
posted by terrier319 at 3:36 PM PST - 11 comments

Amazon price monitor

I'd like to know if item x drops below a certain price at Amazon? Are there any services that offer this functionality?
posted by jedro at 3:32 PM PST - 6 comments

MythTV + DirecTV..anyone?

I would like to build a MythTV system to work with DirecTV. My questions are around the interface to the DTV receivers. Has anyone here done this? (Questions inside) [more inside]
posted by spifl at 3:15 PM PST - 8 comments

I need a tile cleaning regimen!

What is a good, realistic tile cleaning regimen? Method, frequency, and implements... [more inside]
posted by bryanboyer at 3:11 PM PST - 4 comments

Whom does the pronoun "he" refer to in the sentence "Whom did John implicate and did he get in trouble?"

Whom does the pronoun "he" refer to in the sentence "Whom did John implicate and did he get in trouble?" Why?
posted by yeoz at 3:10 PM PST - 15 comments

Japanese translation - web page

Hi I need some to help me buy a product from the following Japanese web page - http://store.yahoo.co.jp/donya/454747950010.html Plese tell me where to click or what to do to buy this product. OR, how can I get in touch with an Evergreen electronics distributer who will ship to Canada/US? Thanks!
posted by bright77blue at 2:14 PM PST - 6 comments

Beaches to camp on in Florida?

Beaches to camp on in S.E. Florida? [more inside]
posted by Tubes at 2:00 PM PST - 8 comments

All in all it's just too many bricks on the wall

What can I do with an unattractive brick wall in a family room? [more inside]
posted by donnagirl at 1:37 PM PST - 19 comments

Can I get a hybrid text file/spread sheet?

I'd like a word processor that mimics Excel sheets. [more inside]
posted by oddman at 1:19 PM PST - 10 comments

Will an inflated thermarest break or explode if I put it in my airline's checked luggage?

Above the pressure at sea level, how many additional PSI can I expect checked luggage to experience ? [more inside]
posted by jldindc at 12:50 PM PST - 15 comments

Flood Insurance Question

My house recently flooded. Fortunately, we have flood insurance. Our adjuster claimed that we needed to remove our floors (hardwood and tile) throughout the house and replace. Our contractor (who I trust) said that's not necessary, that only re-finishing is required. Because of the discrepancy, I stand to pocket a chunk of change on the deal. [more inside]
posted by space2k at 12:35 PM PST - 9 comments

Native American Tribes and Smoking

Is there evidence of Native American tribes suffering health effects from smoking tobacco? [more inside]
posted by magodesky at 12:28 PM PST - 16 comments

Is it possible to get a pimple actually IN your lip?

I'm just saying this right now, this is a little disgusting. Stop reading now if that's an issue. I just got one one those maginfying shaving mirrors. For the first time I notice something: a white spot (like pinhead sized) in approximately the middle of my lip and kinda far down. I have no idea how long it's been there. Coulda been there for years. I left it alone for a week or two. It didn't get bigger but it didn't get smaller either. So I squeezed it. This being my lip and not a rough patch of skin...well it hurt like hell. I was going to stop. But then, it came to the top, so I figured I'd give it one more pinch. Boom. It pops. Like a pimple. Loose white fluid comes out. The thing closes up an hour later and then it's like it didn't happen. What the heck just happened here?
posted by rileyray3000 at 12:25 PM PST - 12 comments

Grand Canyoning

I need some help finalizing plans for a Grand Canyon trip. I'm just having some trouble finding good solutions for a couple things. I've checked out two of the better previous Grand Canyon askme's (4 days in Las Vegas and Grand Canyon and Grand camping?) but I still have some questions based on my specific trip. [more inside]
posted by inigo2 at 12:21 PM PST - 12 comments

How can I help my mother catch up on her taxes?

My mother owns a small business. She has not filed her taxes in several years. I need advice on what to do to either do the taxes for her or make it easier for her so I can get her do do it. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:10 PM PST - 12 comments

I have to pay to have him testify against me? Pshaw.

TherapyContractModificationFilter: The contract my shrink wants me to sign has a paragraph saying that if he is asked to testify in a court case involving me (even if it's for the other side), I have to pay him. I'm not inclined to sign such a contract. Is such a clause anywhere near normal? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:09 PM PST - 27 comments

Legal/Social problems with physically helping gays conceive?

Legal/Social ramifications of giving reproductive stuff to a same-sex couple who wishes to conceive? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:07 PM PST - 12 comments

boot me

Accidentally ran a Win 95 boot disk on my Win ME system. Can't restore fully. Please hope me. [more inside]
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 12:07 PM PST - 9 comments

Here's your check, goodbye

Non-profit worker: how to word a letter of dismissal? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:05 PM PST - 7 comments

Roomate trouble

How do I desensitize myself to my roomate's bad moods/general unhappiness? [more inside]
posted by anonymous78 at 11:44 AM PST - 13 comments

Eurofly: Anyone?

Has anyone flown to Italy via Eurofly? [more inside]
posted by veronica sawyer at 11:38 AM PST - 4 comments

Spring cleaning for small businesses

What can a business do with excess inventory? [more inside]
posted by schnee at 11:20 AM PST - 2 comments

Who are these people, and what in the world are they singing about?

This music video [YouTube link] is...um...hard to describe. It's also entirely in Japanese, and my wife, friends and I have all been wondering for more than two years just who these people are, and just what, exactly, they're singing about. [more inside]
posted by davejay at 10:35 AM PST - 14 comments

Am I alone here?

What goes through your mind when you think you are about to die? [more inside]
posted by kantgirl at 10:20 AM PST - 68 comments

How can I create a personalized honeymoon gift registry?

I'd like to set up a honeymoon registry (aka vacation wishlist) for my 07/07/07 wedding, but none of the online ones that I've seen are to my taste. Is there any easy way to create my own, perhaps with a tool similar to DropCash? [more inside]
posted by bjennings at 10:16 AM PST - 6 comments

What can we do together?

What do you and your significant other like to do together? [more inside]
posted by justonegirl at 10:05 AM PST - 36 comments

How can I stop avoiding stress?

Any time I feel like I am under any sort of stress or have a decision to make (even an easy one), I seem to go through these cycles of avoidance, which usually involve checking several e-mail accounts and web sites that I follow. Then when that is done, and I return to work, I realize the stress is still there so I repeat the cycle again. This keeps me from getting much work done. How do I stop this cycle?
posted by rwatson at 9:37 AM PST - 25 comments

Selling precious metals (in California)

Bought some gold coins when they were "cheap" several years ago. Now, with the price up, I'm considering unloading them. Good idea? Any hassles? Any local experience? [more inside]
posted by Rash at 9:33 AM PST - 7 comments

More Like This

Help me re-find a site that shows a dynamic graph of similar artists... [more inside]
posted by lorrer at 9:31 AM PST - 6 comments

Where can I find out little known traps , puzzles , paradoxes , myths and limitations of economics, beside wading through college textbooks?

Where can I find out little known traps , puzzles , paradoxes , myths and limitations of economics, beside wading through college textbooks? [more inside]
posted by studentguru at 9:27 AM PST - 7 comments

Parts to build a cheap(ish) Linux Desktop PC?

Looking for the component suggestions on what is the "sweet spot" as far as price/performance to build a cheap-ish desktop Linux PC. I've already got a great monitor and a KVM switch, just need to build the box. I'd like to keep the cost in the $500 range. [more inside]
posted by de void at 9:08 AM PST - 12 comments

Where are the two-stars?

Are there travel booking sites that have really cheap hotels that aren't hostels? [more inside]
posted by lampoil at 8:38 AM PST - 15 comments

A store by any other name...

Help! I need a name for my new store. [more inside]
posted by kayzie at 8:18 AM PST - 48 comments

Why is youtube breaking the styles on my webpage?

Why is youtube breaking the styles on my webpage? [more inside]
posted by quibx at 8:11 AM PST - 7 comments

Springtime, when a woman's fancy turns to camping

It's just getting warm here in Massachusetts and I have camping on my mind. Can you think of any memorable places you have camped in New England? [more inside]
posted by beccaj at 8:10 AM PST - 16 comments

Ink-Stained Wretch-to-be

Career change advice sought! Help me make the switch to editing/publishing. [more inside]
posted by Miko at 8:07 AM PST - 5 comments

Is the T-mobile MDA a good upgrade for Sidekick2 users?

Help! I love my Sidekick2, but it's broken. They don't sell them anymore, but the Sidekick3 won't be available for months, and I need a phone with similar features NOW. Should I abandon the Sidekick and get a new T-Mobile MDA? Anyone have one, and if so, do you like it? [more inside]
posted by ab3 at 7:41 AM PST - 11 comments

How do you build a ROM reader?

How do I read the contents of a flash ROM? [more inside]
posted by gaelenh at 7:35 AM PST - 4 comments

Why does wireless zero configuration not start automatically?

Why does wireless zero configuration not start automatically? [more inside]
posted by londonmark at 6:59 AM PST - 4 comments

Travel tips for visiting Toronto/Burlington ON

Traveling alone to Toronto/Burlington ON for the first time in late July. I've never been to Canada at all. Tips please for a slightly nervous traveler. [more inside]
posted by yoga at 6:02 AM PST - 29 comments

Rise and Shine

Music filter: OK So besides Jethro Tull's 'A Passion Play' and the obvious Brown Album* what other songs or albums have that Easter theme? * Jesus Christ Super Star [more inside]
posted by Gungho at 5:22 AM PST - 17 comments

How often should a guy wash his hair?

How often should a guy wash his hair? [more inside]
posted by sjvilla79 at 1:28 AM PST - 39 comments

April 13

Invision board virus

How can I safely visit a web forum to see if the virus that infected it is gone? [more inside]
posted by IndigoRain at 7:14 PM PST - 12 comments

Stock Options help

I quit my job at a company after 2.5 years. I have (had) 5000 stock options at the time. Of that a certain percentage had vested (more than half). That company was purchased last week. According to the agreement I have and the "plan", I It clearly states that. I quit that job and was not fired. The term of the options are 10 years. I was told by the controller of the company I could not exercise my options. [more inside]
posted by arh07 at 6:45 PM PST - 17 comments

Are there any extant recordings of Samuel Beckett's voice?

Are there any extant recordings of Samuel Beckett's voice?
posted by holgate at 6:03 PM PST - 8 comments

Soothing the ailing wounds in Denver?

My 2-year relationship just ended(?) last night, and so I'm flying out to Denver to spend Easter with my family. Any suggestions for good, take-your-mind off of things to do in Denver Friday or Saturday? [more inside]
posted by gus at 6:03 PM PST - 11 comments

After Image of Mona Lisa

I'm looking for this optical illusion image. It's the one where you stare at the center of the image for 30 seconds then close your eyes and an after image of the Mona Lisa will magically appear to you. Does anyone have a link to this image? [more inside]
posted by SDAnder at 5:46 PM PST - 6 comments

When can I expect a Flash drive computer?

With the rise of flash drive technology, it makes me wonder why flash drives can't be used as primary hard drives in computers/mp3 players/ handheld gaming devices, etc. Could an OS conceivably be put on a flash drive? One that boots up almost immediately? For all our advancements with computers, it seems like boot times are getting longer, if anything. Flash drives keep getting bigger and bigger, up to 10 or more gigs nowadays, so when can I expect the computer manufacturers to roll out Flash drive computers? 5 years? 10? What are the technical limitations/challenges of Flash drives?
posted by zardoz at 5:31 PM PST - 27 comments

Black and white films made since 1970

Please help me find black and white (or predominantly black and white) films MADE SINCE 1970 for an ongoing art project. [more inside]
posted by chocolatepeanutbuttercup at 5:20 PM PST - 39 comments

Know this song?

(Songfilter) -- I never thought of using askme for this purpose, but I've seen it lately as such. And, let me just now that it's tough. But, I heard a great song at, off all places, when I was at a taping of the Daily Show. All I can remember was that it seemed like a mix of New Age + R&B. And the only lyric I can remember is "in the backseat" (it was part of the chorus). Anyone know what song or band it could it be? [more inside]
posted by skepticallypleased at 5:16 PM PST - 17 comments

Online RSS reader?

Is there a server-based RSS aggregator that works like Safari RSS? [more inside]
posted by bonaldi at 4:52 PM PST - 12 comments

BBC Documentary chanting soundtrack

Gutteral, musical throat chanting, used as a way of communicating - an actual language? Used as a soundtrack for a BBC documentary, and I need to find a specific piece. (much more inside) [more inside]
posted by fire&wings at 4:41 PM PST - 10 comments

Lost my Utils

I accidentally deleted my Utilities folder (OS X 10.4.5) in a moment of madness. Was there anything in there I actually needed? I am kind of missing Grab. Is there somewhere to download it, or do I need to dig out the install disc?
posted by roofus at 4:39 PM PST - 5 comments

Good Widget Dashboard Setups

Looking for something for Windows and/or Mac OS X that allow you to invoke or otherwise mark off an area at the side of the screen with only widgets/applets/chiclets/whateverlets in them. It should be different from, say, the OS X dock, in that it should claim its screen real estate fully -- no letting things slide under it or over it, windows that bump up against it should recognize its edge and stop. [more inside]
posted by namespan at 4:17 PM PST - 4 comments

Out, vile, uh, crazy black streak!

Help removing unknown black streaks from a 100% cotton white shirt. My friend works as a waiter and periodically black marks show up on his work shirts, particularly around the cuffs. They're not ink or food--are they sweat stains? They almost look like dark pencil streaks. They've come out in the past, but this time they're all up and down one sleeve and bleach and stain removal spray aren't doing anything. Any recommendations?
posted by anonymous at 4:02 PM PST - 17 comments

How to stay in China for as long as possible?

I'm taking Chinese classes this summer in Beijing. After that, I'd like to travel a bit and then find a job. How do I make this work, with regard to visa issues in particular? [more inside]
posted by jbb7 at 3:37 PM PST - 6 comments

Who owns my mutation?

Help me track down and understand the owner of mutation's patent. [more inside]
posted by Sara Anne at 3:00 PM PST - 13 comments

FF "search this site" plug-in

Do you know of any Firefox search plug-in that will "search this site" (being the current *websitesite*) for text entered in the search box? [more inside]
posted by chefscotticus at 2:52 PM PST - 6 comments

Besides ignoring the Girlscout Cookies in the freezer...

Any tips for a seven-day fast? [more inside]
posted by hermitosis at 2:49 PM PST - 18 comments

Learning photography with the Nikon D50

Learning photography with the Nikon D50. While it is a great camera and I am not a camera/techno-phobe by any means, the amount of features and possibilities of this camera overwhelm me from time to time. I would like to learn about all the features and tricks and tips and subject shooting scenarios that would help me understand aperture, shutter-speed and other photography elements better. In a click-and-learn sort of a way, almost. Naturally, this means that I find the manual and the (quite excellent) Nikon phototutor not up to the mark.
posted by cusecase at 2:07 PM PST - 13 comments

Finding someone

Has anyone ever used one of those web detective sites? If so, which would you recommend? [more inside]
posted by joaniemcchicken at 2:04 PM PST - 4 comments

Help me with a kitty problem.

Cat Issue: I've got a female spayed kitty acting up and spraying my stuff. [more inside]
posted by Destroid at 1:48 PM PST - 13 comments

Camping Recommendations.

Rustic camping near North Texas recommendations, please. [more inside]
posted by dios at 1:23 PM PST - 4 comments

Smokes online

Ordering smokes online.. My SO was going to use my bank account to order smokes online, no credit cards accepted. [more inside]
posted by raildr at 1:21 PM PST - 16 comments

Failed predictions of the future?

Is there a website that lists failed science fiction predictions, and successful ones? [more inside]
posted by drezdn at 12:42 PM PST - 13 comments

WiFi Streaming of music from computer to stereo...

Today I saw a Slim Devices SqueezeBox 3. Just read a review at NYT. Looks pretty neat. That said, I have zero interest or use for the radio/pandora aspect of it. However, the other features may make it worth the price tag. But, before I shell out... what are my other alternatives? (On OS X) [more inside]
posted by Manhasset at 12:36 PM PST - 20 comments

Where/When to see the Northern Lights

I'd like to get a good time/date approximation as to when I can see the Northern Lights. Any experts with the Aurora Borealis? [more inside]
posted by jadanzzy at 12:25 PM PST - 9 comments

What happened to the old website swanky.org?

Whatever happened to that old popular website swanky.org? [more inside]
posted by dagny at 11:27 AM PST - 6 comments

Are there student loans for continuing education programs?

Are there student loans for continuing education programs? [more inside]
posted by scazza at 11:26 AM PST - 7 comments

Need business stationery

Where's a decent place to order business stationery? [more inside]
posted by hodyoaten at 11:24 AM PST - 3 comments

Indie Rock Recommendations

Music recommendations for someone who has grown up/apart from indie rock. [more inside]
posted by kmel at 11:22 AM PST - 41 comments

Virtualization websites?

What are the best community (news, blogs, message boards, etc.) sites related to virtualization and virtual machines?
posted by EnormousTalkingOnion at 11:19 AM PST - 4 comments

I love Post Apocalyptic Genre books and movies. Can you recommend some?

I love Post Apocalyptic Genre books and movies. Can you recommend some? [more inside]
posted by crewshell at 10:56 AM PST - 55 comments

Good scifi computer game(s)?

I played various RPGs as a kid (D&D, Gamma World, Top Secret, Traveller) and later as an adult (most notably Alternity). My favorite RPGs are scifi. I don't have the time (or team) to play with now and would like to play on the computer. Care to recommend a good scifi (post-apocalyptic, space opera, trader-based or whatever) computer game or two? I'm especially interested in games that aren't just FPS.
posted by jdfan at 10:41 AM PST - 29 comments

Is prostate stimulation an acquired taste?

Is prostate stimulation an acquired taste? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:14 AM PST - 10 comments

Fixing a pass-through bedroom

Say you purchased a two-bedroom condo, but one bedroom was only accessible by walking through the other. What would you do about it? [more inside]
posted by Plutor at 10:09 AM PST - 22 comments

Phonebook Backup

How can I back up all my contacts from my Nokia 6230, and put them onto my Sony Ericsson W810i?
posted by xvs22 at 9:45 AM PST - 3 comments

How do I get the potency of my sperm tested?

How do I get the potency of my sperm tested? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:37 AM PST - 10 comments

Better Late Than Never?

I haven't filed last year's taxes yet because I'd been told Uncle Sam didn't mind you filing late, if he owed you (I'm due a tax return, rather than owing taxes). Now, I want to file an extension on this year's taxes, without having sent in last year's. Will doing this trigger the IRS to send thugs to my house? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:36 AM PST - 5 comments

Is WebTrends Senile, Or Am I?

WebTrends: Does it, like, sometimes just completely not record a lot of hits? [more inside]
posted by lodurr at 9:19 AM PST - 12 comments

American contractor in the UK

UKContractorFilter: I am going to be working as a contractor in the UK for a good while and the local tax laws perplex me to say the least. From this link it looks like there may be ways to reduce my UK tax liability, and/or at least make it count towards my US taxes. Surely, I am not the first one to go through this; pointers, tips, good/bad experiences? [more inside]
posted by costas at 9:15 AM PST - 5 comments

Is it acceptable to file your tax with copies of W-2 forms?

Is it acceptable to file your tax with copies of W-2 forms? [more inside]
posted by dy at 8:59 AM PST - 3 comments

Mission Impossible(?): Spy Games

Hosting an adult birthday party centered around the ABC show "Alias" as its theme. I'm looking for a good game or activity that could fit an espionage type theme. [more inside]
posted by MasonDixon at 8:22 AM PST - 14 comments

Help review a quote for Koi pond repairs.

My wife and I inherited a koi pond (about 8 by 3) or so with waterfall, when we purchased a house last month. The pump recently stopped working - it's a Speck Pump Model 90 - looks years old. We visited our local Garden Center and spoke to their pond guy and he gave us several things to try - none of which got the thing running again. Can any pond experts help me review a quote I got to have a new pump installed? [more inside]
posted by mmangano at 7:57 AM PST - 8 comments

Coin Redemption

I have this ridiculously large collection of change. I want to redeem it for cash. I don't want to use CoinStar and pay a percentage. I don't want to sit there and make little rolls either. Anyone have any creative ideas? or tools/devices to assist in this matter? Call me Lazy... Thanks
posted by erd0c at 7:32 AM PST - 28 comments

E-mail to Telephone Service or Program?

E-mail to Telephone Service or Program? [more inside]
posted by richardhay at 7:30 AM PST - 3 comments

Is there something especially nifty I can do with a sexy SGI box?

What cool stuff can I do with my newly-acquired SGI Octane? [more inside]
posted by dammitjim at 7:06 AM PST - 10 comments

Does anyone remember this game or author?

Back in 1991 I used to play a Backgammon game on the PC - the format was based on the writings of a Russian (sounding?) Science Fiction author. I always meant to see what the books were like, but now I don't know his name. Any ideas as to who he could be?
posted by SpacemanRed at 7:03 AM PST - 4 comments

Content Server Legality

A school is thinking about moving it's library into the 21st century by setting up a content server and letting students/faculty/staff stream movies and music that the library owns over the network. Assuming they set up an authentication system, and only let a title be signed out to one user at a time, what are the legal issues they need to consider?
posted by parallax7d at 6:10 AM PST - 5 comments

HyperPTH and PUD

The incidence of peptic ulcer disease in hyperparathyroidism is increased, presumably due to hypercalcemia leading to increased gastrin secretion. Why does calcium stimulate G-Cells to secrete calcium? I am trying to find a precide physiologic reason. Is there another reason for this link between HyperPTH and duodenal ulcers. Thanks!
posted by reverenddrjice at 6:03 AM PST - 7 comments

Short stories about a birthday?

Can you name short stories, preferably from the classics, about a birthday? [more inside]
posted by dov at 6:03 AM PST - 5 comments

How to calculate "average" probability?

If there's a 20 percent chance of rain on Monday, a 20 percent chance on Tuesday, and a 30 percent chance on Wednesday, what's the overall chance that it'll rain during this three-day period? How do you calculate this?
posted by futility closet at 5:57 AM PST - 60 comments

Take a metal detector on an airliner?

Can a US airline passenger take a metal detector along on an airline flight? [m/i] [more inside]
posted by pax digita at 5:42 AM PST - 13 comments

Beethoven's 0p. 109?

I've been trying to find/download a Beethoven piano sonata, op. 109 and have only been able to grab the first movement performed by Walter Klein. Does anybody know where I can download the whole piece? Who do you especially like performing it?
posted by sluglicker at 4:56 AM PST - 8 comments

Who funds the National Geographic?

Where does the National Geographic get their funding from? [more inside]
posted by arrowhead at 4:45 AM PST - 6 comments

ShamelessFreeTaxAdviceFilter: Stock Option Tax Question (Quarterly Estimated Payments)

Yes, I am going to try and find an accountant to answer this, but I figured I'd also ask the MetaFilter community... I sold some stock options (Incentive Stock Options) last year. Because they are ISOs, my company did not withhold anything, which I anticipated, so I put enough aside to handle my tax bill. So instead of getting a refund, I owe $7k. Not a problem. I entered the info into TurboTax, and it's telling me I need to do quarterly estimated payments. My question is this, because this was a one time hit and my company is already taking enough withholding from my paycheck, do I really need to make quarterly estimated payments?
posted by wisdom-seeker at 4:33 AM PST - 8 comments

How to make it mobile?

PDFfilter: How easiest to format/generate the same information to be sent to mobile phones and PDA's. [more inside]
posted by geekyguy at 4:15 AM PST - 7 comments

Fuzzy logic search to find international characters.

I've got a database of names, many of which have international characters (e-acute, c-cedilla, o-umlaut, etc). I want the search routine to be clever enough that if I search for "Celik" it'll find c-cedilla-elik, even though "c" and "c-cedilla" are entirely different. [more inside]
posted by Pericles at 2:57 AM PST - 16 comments

How to distribute access to a shared television?

What's the best (most fair) system for distributing access to a shared television? [more inside]
posted by nervestaple at 1:42 AM PST - 18 comments

Self addressed stamped package?

It's a lot like the concept of a self addressed stamped envelope, except that it is for a package of unknown weight. Can I do this? [more inside]
posted by |n$eCur3 at 12:58 AM PST - 14 comments

April 12

Good audio setup for a Home Theater PC?

What's the best combination of soundcard, speaker bundle and/or receiver I can get to work with a standard PC running MediaPortal that I'm using as a HTPC? [more inside]
posted by mmcg at 11:57 PM PST - 8 comments

Dye on.. rocks?

How are semiprecious stones dyed? [more inside]
posted by cmyk at 10:44 PM PST - 6 comments

Tonsillectomy survival tips and grocery list?

Tonsillectomy survival tips and grocery list? [more inside]
posted by wubbie at 10:20 PM PST - 10 comments

Canadian version of 7 Up

Help me find the Canadian version of 7 Up. [more inside]
posted by TorontoSandy at 9:29 PM PST - 8 comments

Wot's my SAT score, mate?

Educated in the UK, I have no idea what my SAT score is and therefore how I measure up to various entry requirements in the US. Is there a way of converting my GCSEs/whatever into a SAT score?
posted by cogat at 9:23 PM PST - 4 comments

Need a pool on the Eastside, stat.

Seattle Eastside swimmers unite! I'm moving to Sammamish, working in Redmond, and I need access to a lap swimming pool for workouts. Someone throw me a life ring? [more inside]
posted by frogan at 8:27 PM PST - 10 comments

Runway/taxiway signage lightbox replica

Suggestions needed for painting on a piece of plastic or plexiglass which would be lit from behind. [more inside]
posted by oflinkey at 8:25 PM PST - 8 comments

I'll show you mine if you show me yours.

OK, NYC MeFi'ers, let's hear it- where's your dim sum place? I've been faithful to Ping's for the last few years, but have dumpling wanderlust. I'm also curious about some good vegetarian dim sum.
posted by mkultra at 8:12 PM PST - 15 comments

French Ya Ya

Can anyone enlighten me on the genre of music called "French Ya Ya"?
posted by protocool at 8:07 PM PST - 10 comments

How to Spend Two Days in the Twin Cities?

Other than stalking Lileks, what should we do when we're (husband, wife, 13 year-old daughter) in Minneapolis for two days this summer?
posted by baltimore at 7:54 PM PST - 25 comments

Castro Hat Variant?

Please help me identify my lost hat , and where I might be able to acquire a new one. [more inside]
posted by Mister Cheese at 7:48 PM PST - 4 comments

Help me remove a switch

How the *#&%! do I get these switches out of this sound board? [more inside]
posted by yellowbkpk at 7:16 PM PST - 12 comments

What do you do when your flight is cancelled?

What do you expect when your flight is cancelled? What is the airline's responsibility, and has anyone found a way to encourage the airlines to help you get home sooner? [more inside]
posted by gesamtkunstwerk at 6:49 PM PST - 24 comments

What restrictions exist an emotional appeals in a court of law?

How far can attorneys go in appealing to a jury's emotions? Is there any restriction, formal or informal, on the use of such tactics? What precedent is there for their excessive use? [more inside]
posted by Embryo at 6:12 PM PST - 29 comments

Where to move in Portland, OR?

If you were a 26 year old, poor, recent college graduate that wanted to move to Portland, OR what neighborhood would be the best to live in? [more inside]
posted by rokabiri at 5:55 PM PST - 20 comments

broken bose triport headphones

I broke the plug on my bose triport headphones and i'm trying to fix them myself. I bought wirestrippers and a stereo headphone jack but when I tried to attach the wires I realized I have no idea what im doing. [more inside]
posted by pwally at 5:10 PM PST - 10 comments

How did you prove your eliteness?

Elite BBS access. What were some of the most common questions used to verify a new user's level of elite in the late 80s, early 90s? [more inside]
posted by monsta coty scott at 5:02 PM PST - 14 comments

Mortgage TAX

Last Min. Tax Question. Please help [more inside]
posted by curiousleo at 4:39 PM PST - 7 comments

How do I most effectively use Monster.com?

Please help me figure out how to use Monster.com and other job/career sites successfully. [more inside]
posted by young_simba at 4:35 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me make fake legs

I'm not crafty enough to figure this out: I want to make a pair of fake "legs" that are wearing a pair of my jeans, socks, and shoes. [more inside]
posted by robbie01 at 4:34 PM PST - 11 comments

Cell Phone Dispair

My Sony w600i jumped 2 feet off an aquarium and cracked it's screen and has bled through. The display is totally useless and now the phone is acting up (dropping calls, static, etc.) I finally found this phone after major trouble with Blackberry and Motorolas. It was definately my favorite phone in my cell phone tenure. I now need a phone and don't want to pay 200-300 dollars (again) for a phone. I'm locked in a contact to the upgrade with a rebate is out of the question. Are there any stores online that I can find good deals on cell phones? What durable, simple frills phone would you recommend? I'm tired of spending good money and then either ruining it myself or having the phone go schizo on its own.
posted by ieatwords at 4:19 PM PST - 12 comments

Self-hosting For Fun And Profit

Thanks to your earlier help, I have successfully ported my C# project over to the Mac. I have also ordered a new DSL line with a static IP from bway.net. What do I need to know in order to host my website, accessible via my TLD, on a PowerPC Mac mini running OS X 10.4? How can I be my own DNS and mail server? Without overshadowing that question, would it be smarter to think in terms of DynDNS for external DNS/mail services?
posted by thejoshu at 4:17 PM PST - 16 comments

What are some interesting medical texts or anatomy prints

What would be a cool/interesting medical book to have a first edition of, besides "Gray's Anatomy"? [more inside]
posted by Airhen at 4:11 PM PST - 18 comments

How can I profit from a short-term increase in gas/oil prices?

I'll be getting a net refund of about $300 from my fed & state tax returns and would like to invest it in some short-term way -- my wife and I are going to San Francisco for a conference in August, and I'm guessing we'll have about $500 in leftover costs once my work-related stuff is reimbursed. I'd like to turn that $300 into whatever I can to help cover those costs. Yesterday's report that gas will likely hit US$3 this summer points me in that direction. [more inside]
posted by aaronetc at 4:07 PM PST - 32 comments

Photoshop ate my file.

Photoshopfilter: Running 7.0 in OS 10.3. When trying to save a 60+ MB file, PS states "Could not save because of a disk error" and eats the file instead. 40 GB on the disk, no errors from Disk Utility. [more inside]
posted by cramer at 3:30 PM PST - 6 comments

COURTESY PAY FEE: $25

What are your strategies for avoiding overdraft fees? [more inside]
posted by Squid Voltaire at 3:16 PM PST - 33 comments

My DVD burner suddenly stopped working. Is it a hardware or software issue?

My DVD burner suddenly stopped working. Is it a hardware or software issue? Very long Error log inside. [more inside]
posted by Paul KC at 3:15 PM PST - 5 comments

Any good films that have gone direct to dvd?

I was visiting Blockbuster this morning whilst I was waiting for the bus and noticed a vast number of direct-to-dvd titles which I'd never heard of before but didn't seem half bad (based on packaging, cast, director, story). I'm signed up to ScreenSelect/LoveFilm (the UK's Netflix) and there isn't really a way to check for these things. Would anyone like to suggest some great films which went D2DVD? I don't mind anything and would include films which only received a London or Film Festival release. Region 2 only then please.
posted by feelinglistless at 3:02 PM PST - 3 comments

Toshiba DVD/HDD recorder doesn't pick up certain stations?

I have recently bought a Toshiba DVD/HDD recorder. It is hooked up to basic cable (no sat or hi-def) and I can use the TV Guide service to pick which programs I wish to record. The only problem is for some reason our local community cable station is not on the TV Guide grid so I can't record anything off of it. I receive the channel just fine. I've looked at different things throughout the user guide but cannot find anything on how to get the channel onto my TV Guide grid. Is there a way to do this?
posted by pylon at 2:56 PM PST - 5 comments

Music for those Goddamn Liberals?

I'm looking for songs that you associate with Liberal ideals. (Or "progressive" ideals, if you prefer.) Examples: "Streets of Philadelphia" by Bruce Springsteen, "If It Were Up to Me" by Cheryl Wheeler, "I'm Not the Man" by Natalie Merchant/10,000 Maniacs, "War" by Edwin Starr, etc. I'd prefer the songs weren't blatantly "Republicans suck and Bush is mean" (though "When the President Talks to God" is a fine song); I'm looking more for songs about social activism and progressive ideals, about the things that Liberals typically hold important. (Songs about the general state of the world are fine, too: "Ball of Confusion", etc.)
posted by jdroth at 2:33 PM PST - 82 comments

Why doesn't Word for Mac make a PDF with outside page numbers?

Why does Word 2004 (OS X 10.4.3) freak out when printing a PDF of a document with the "different odd and even pages" pagination setting? How can I convince it that everything is OK? [more inside]
posted by themadjuggler at 2:21 PM PST - 3 comments

How do I make my 2 phone lines play nicely?

I've never had a landline -- just a mobile for the past decade. I got married last year, and the little lady has a landline. We need one where we live, since there's no mobile service. So I forward my calls to the home line when I'm home. The problem is that if I don't answer the phone, the voice mail service doesn't work. How can I make these two work together? [more inside]
posted by waldo at 2:07 PM PST - 9 comments

What should a 2-year-old be eating?

Should I be worried that my height-weight proportional 2-year-old daughter isn't eating her vegetables, doesn't eat a lot of meat, and strongly prefers fruit? [more inside]
posted by dw at 1:33 PM PST - 20 comments

Is there anything fun to do in Cleveland?

Is there anything fun to do in Cleveland? [more inside]
posted by bamassippi at 1:28 PM PST - 12 comments

Smooth moves

What lubricates bowel movements on the way out, and what makes it happen? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:10 PM PST - 16 comments

MP3 for the cheapskates

Cheap but functional Mp3 player? [more inside]
posted by ZackTM at 1:06 PM PST - 12 comments

Looking for two books for kids

I am trying to remember the titles and authors of two possibly linked young adult novels. [more inside]
posted by interrobang at 12:37 PM PST - 10 comments

Vinegar - tasty condiment or household disinfectant?

Is vinegar really effective as a household cleaner? [more inside]
posted by catfood at 12:34 PM PST - 33 comments

How can I get a legitimate company to stop sending me email?

What do you do with a legitimate company who keeps sending you email even after you've asked them to stop? [more inside]
posted by stefanie at 12:09 PM PST - 17 comments

Fix my cake recipe

How do I alter this cake recipe to bake successfully at low altitude? [more inside]
posted by onhazier at 12:01 PM PST - 9 comments

Best Fit Ellipse?

How can one create a best fit ellipse around a cluster of (x,y) points in a scatter plot within Excel? [more inside]
posted by geonags at 11:58 AM PST - 33 comments

Shrimps and rice, so very nice!

What is this Thai food I vaguely remember? [more inside]
posted by Sallysings at 11:53 AM PST - 9 comments

Sweet pea flowers in a floral arrangement

I'm looking to deliver an arrangement of sweetpeas in the continental United States. Cost is no objective, and even the timing is not urgent -- anytime from now until the end of this month would work. However, I can't seem to find any florist that actually offers arrangements with these flowers! [more inside]
posted by NucleophilicAttack at 11:51 AM PST - 3 comments

Suggestions for a simple CMS when I don't have access to the production web server.

I'm looking for suggestions for a simple CMS when I don't have access to the production web server. [more inside]
posted by rschroed at 11:49 AM PST - 13 comments

Tasty Weight-Gain Supplements

I have a relative undergoing Chemotherapy, who is losing weight excessively and needs to gain some back. Question inside: [more inside]
posted by BigLankyBastard at 11:49 AM PST - 25 comments

Why doesn't pop satisfy?

Why is it that when drinking pop, I keep wanting more? Why doesn't it satisfy me like drinking a glass of water would when I want water? Is it a quality of carbonated sugary beverages, or am I just in love with the taste of it? [more inside]
posted by gilsonal at 11:40 AM PST - 27 comments

How do I get what's coming to me?

How do I gently ask/remind my boss about a bonus that was promised to me in my original job offer? [more inside]
posted by Alpenglow at 11:39 AM PST - 25 comments

Help me find a simple gamepad

I'm looking for a very simple USB gamepad. It should have a d-pad, no analog sticks, and as few action buttons as possible, ideally only two. Current trends in gamepads are packing them ever-tighter with buttons, so I despair of finding a gamepad with less than 8 buttons and triggers. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by breath at 11:36 AM PST - 13 comments

Looking for a Song

I'm looking for a song on an out of print album. [more inside]
posted by Julnyes at 11:29 AM PST - 11 comments

Our apartment is on floor 8, so we don't need those black bars, thanks.

Help me love Miami. [more inside]
posted by bilabial at 11:29 AM PST - 7 comments

Large format glossy prints?

Where can I order large(r) format glossy prints online? [more inside]
posted by FlamingBore at 10:48 AM PST - 8 comments

free/open source software

I am looking for free software (or even open source stuff) to tell my students about. [more inside]
posted by nimsey lou at 10:02 AM PST - 14 comments

Help me create a flickr-type site!

Help me catalog and organize our graphic files! I'm trying to catalog thousands of graphic files, mainly Illustrator and EPS files. That part's not too hard. The problem I'm running into is, how do I have the catalog accessible to everyone in our company, preferably on our intranet?... [more inside]
posted by edjusted at 9:59 AM PST - 0 comments

Cleveland rocks. I want to see why.

Tell me about Cleveland. [more inside]
posted by pdb at 9:46 AM PST - 19 comments

please include an entity-relationship diagram with responses

Which database certifications would be most useful, from the point of view of employability? [more inside]
posted by nanojath at 9:45 AM PST - 5 comments

Cold Feats

I want to hike in Hokkaido for the next two weeks. Can I do it? Will I freeze to death? [more inside]
posted by simonemarie at 9:25 AM PST - 3 comments

PHP file manager?

I'm looking for a PHP file manager to act as an extranet... [more inside]
posted by crickets at 9:13 AM PST - 7 comments

Taking merchandise to Mexico via Airlines?

What do I have to obtain in order for me to export merchandise to Mexico? [more inside]
posted by nserrano at 9:11 AM PST - 1 comment

Too many internal USB devices.

My motherboard has 4 external USB ports and pins for 2 internal USB device connections. Can I expand the number of internal ones? [more inside]
posted by ChazB at 9:07 AM PST - 3 comments

get rich on rock'n'roll?

I run a regional music calendar/forum/photo gallery site that works mostly with punk, metal, and indie type bands in Chattanooga, TN. I know my audience really well and evidently Adsense does not and I have the dismal click-through rate to prove it. so why can't I just contact labels, artists, distros, etc. that I know my visitors are interested in directly and work something out? [more inside]
posted by mcsweetie at 9:03 AM PST - 3 comments

Where's a good place to work in Seattle?

I'm going to be moving to Seattle in a few months and I'm getting ready to start my job search. It's been just over a decade since I lived in the Northwest and I'm pretty unfamiliar with the current advertising/marketing/web scene. [more inside]
posted by ssmith at 9:00 AM PST - 6 comments

Lodging In Croatia

Booked my vacation to Croatia. Have some questions on lodging in Zagreb and Dubrovnik. [more inside]
posted by spicynuts at 8:58 AM PST - 7 comments

I have the power...now what do I want?

What's the best way for me to structure going from being a full-time, on site employee to a half-time, offsite one? [more inside]
posted by fuzzbean at 8:25 AM PST - 3 comments

Need some linguistic help...

I friend of mine from London, England had this "way" of coming up with names for people. As an example; he would call me bubbles (wasn't thrilled about that) because you can associate it with "squeak" (the sound bubbles can make when cleaning something, or like squeaky clean), which rhymed with the word "greek" which is my nationality... does anyone know what this is called and what the origin is?
posted by Cohiba4009 at 8:23 AM PST - 34 comments

Text-To-Phoneme Conversion Software

I am looking for a good Text-To-Phoneme software. Any clue? [more inside]
posted by Overzealous at 8:04 AM PST - 4 comments

What is the best "starter" digital camera for a five year old?

What is the best "starter" digital camera for a five year old? [more inside]
posted by jeremias at 7:55 AM PST - 9 comments

Why is my marble staining?

Help! My new house seems to have marble in it that stains. What can I do? [more inside]
posted by asavage at 7:37 AM PST - 8 comments

2 Dedicated Servers, 1 Month, 100 Mb/Sec, 1000GB Data Tansfer

I recently signed up for two high power servers (1 linux, 1 win2k3) with a dedicated hosting provider that turned out to be terrible. As a result I won't be keeping the servers, but they won't refund my first months payment. So, I have 2 servers 100mb/sec internet connection 1000gb bandwidth. Any ideas? Nothing illegal or immoral. Was thinking of a pulic mirror - or hosting some high demand files for a good cause? Problem is it's only for a month, so is it worth it? Ideas?
posted by JpMaxMan at 7:22 AM PST - 8 comments

Web Bam!!!

Blogging 201: Let's kick it up a notch! [more inside]
posted by Smarson at 7:02 AM PST - 15 comments

Customising user confirmation emails in phpBB?

Is there a phpBB mod that allows the admin to customise the content of the email users get upon signing up?
posted by By The Grace of God at 6:31 AM PST - 3 comments

Genetic Testing Pregnancy Issues

Pregnancy filter: did you do 1st trimester genetic testing? Did you do an amnio or CVS as a result? Did you completely freak out over tiny risks? How did you cope? [more inside]
posted by Mid at 6:06 AM PST - 20 comments

What can I do with a 'Test' Playstation 2?

I have access to an old-style (ie chunky) PS2 with 'Test' logo'd on the side as opposed to the normal 'PS2' (Pic here) and was wondering what I could do with it that would be interesting. Will it run home-brew code? If so, does anyone have links/resources to point me in the right direction?
posted by jim.christian at 5:53 AM PST - 8 comments

In Search of Job Hunt Books

JobHuntFilter: I'm looking for good, practical books with advice about the process –– how to write a compelling cover letter, what to wear to an interview, etc. I'm especially interested in short, succinct books like Don't Send a Resume. Thanks.
posted by captainscared at 4:13 AM PST - 11 comments

Vroom vroom crash ow oh no squelch

I want to travel through South America. Help. [more inside]
posted by Skyanth at 3:20 AM PST - 19 comments

What can I use on top of photos printed to canvas?

Fellow artists: I want to paint and collage over photos printed onto canvas. Looking for advice about pitfalls, materials that work, etc... [more inside]
posted by wetpaint at 1:48 AM PST - 11 comments

What written works or films deal with weighing the dangerous consequences of resisting government-mandated persecution?

What literary, philosophical works, or films deal with a person's attempt to figure out whether he should put up resistance against government-sanctioned persecution of minorities or dissidents at the price of his own personal well-being or whether he should comply with the persecution to ensure his own safety?
posted by gregb1007 at 1:20 AM PST - 35 comments

Printing my masterpiece

I've got a 500 page book that I've been putting together and are wondering what is the best solution to print and bind in 5.5 x 8.5 inch size? [more inside]
posted by beammeup4 at 12:38 AM PST - 5 comments

How to create rotating online flash product display?

Flash Template & Info for creating 360 rotating products? [more inside]
posted by Fishing Nut at 12:18 AM PST - 3 comments

April 11

Should a single dead pixel bother me?

Should I ask to return my new GPS? [more inside]
posted by aberrant at 10:36 PM PST - 12 comments

Wisdom teeth coming out. Can I save money by getting dental insurance?

So I need my wisdom teeth out, asap, and I've been quoted $1500. Can I save money by getting dental insurance? [more inside]
posted by sdis at 10:35 PM PST - 26 comments

Does booting often hurt my computer?

Does booting a computer often lower its life expectancy? [more inside]
posted by visual mechanic at 9:02 PM PST - 15 comments

Help me decipher the utility of a "CATS" bond.

My grandmother recently passed away and in her possession we discovered a matured "CATS" (Certificate of Accrual on Treasury Securities) "Series P" bond to be paid to my name. It's nothing huge, a few thousand dollars, but it matured in 2002. Though I'm fairly sure I've figured out how to redeem it, I'm having absolutely no success in understanding exactly what a "CATS" bond is. Plenty of Google results but it's all Greek to me, quite frankly. [more inside]
posted by incomple at 8:53 PM PST - 21 comments

Help me find a suitable bike

Help me pick a bicycle. I'm currently riding a bmx'er with 20" wheels. My days of jumping over stuff and doing table tops are over. I need a really good multi-purpose bike. [more inside]
posted by snsranch at 8:39 PM PST - 15 comments

Alcoholics go to meetings...

Drinking Question: Recently was told to cut out carbonation and juices because of a stomach problem, but the gastroentestinologist said alcohol is still OK. So what's the best mixed drink you can think of with no bubbles or acidic juices?
posted by slapshot57 at 8:35 PM PST - 34 comments

Powder coat paint repair?

Looking for advice on touch-up paint for a powder coated bike. [more inside]
posted by caution live frogs at 7:58 PM PST - 5 comments

give me the finger, sleeve

Where can I find an elastic finger bandage/support/sleeve? [more inside]
posted by hellbient at 7:43 PM PST - 4 comments

Why won't my web pages load on the first try?

Why won't web pages load the first time I ask for them? [more inside]
posted by TedW at 7:31 PM PST - 18 comments

Can an Episcopal Priest marry me in a Catholic Church?

Can a Priest from a High episcopal Church marry someone at a Catholic Church? Can they Co-Preside? [more inside]
posted by UMDirector at 7:00 PM PST - 15 comments

web design ideas beamed into my ears

Can anyone recommend some podcasts that focus on topics like web-design, css, web usability, and the like?
posted by punkrockrat at 6:52 PM PST - 3 comments

Can a can fix a flat

Does anyone have any experience with alternatives to spare tires such as fix-a-flat or slime? [more inside]
posted by Samuel Farrow at 6:21 PM PST - 18 comments

What's the song?

Looking for a song, with not many clues... [more inside]
posted by TiredStarling at 6:07 PM PST - 17 comments

I want to take this flattened world and pour it into my skull

WeirdSkillsFilter: Where can I learn more exotic/unusual skills cheaply while traveling? [more inside]
posted by lalochezia at 5:55 PM PST - 7 comments

A great tan without the sweat?

Now that spring has sprung and it's time to pull out the skirts I'm looking for recommendations on the best self-tanning products. [more inside]
posted by brownbeards at 5:45 PM PST - 8 comments

How can I be less empathetic?

How do I become LESS empathetic? [more inside]
posted by 235w103 at 5:10 PM PST - 37 comments

MediaWiki MarkUp Modification....

I've got a MediaWiki front-end question... [more inside]
posted by SweetJesus at 4:40 PM PST - 5 comments

I miss Castle of the Winds.

Recommend me a relatively simple roguelike for Mac. [more inside]
posted by danb at 4:34 PM PST - 8 comments

How do you organize your podcasts in OS X?

My podcasts are in a horrific state of disarray. What tips and tricks do you use for organizing your podcasts? Do you use special playlists, third-party software, etc? I'm running the latest version of Tiger (10.4.6) and iTunes. [more inside]
posted by invisible ink at 4:01 PM PST - 6 comments

Any search engine ninjas out there?

Does this exist? Search tool that displays multiple results from various news sources. [more inside]
posted by zooropa at 3:49 PM PST - 6 comments

Tour Para Bien Estar

I had the great fortune of recently running into this fine fellow, who is currently in the middle of riding his bike from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska clear to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, all in the name of raising money for a youth home for at risk and abused teens in Alaska. Apparently, and unbeknownst to me, he has been wintering here in my home town of Missoula, MT for the past few months, but I only recently met him. We got to talking about his website, and he mentioned that he had been on the hunt for an easy way for him to mark his progress on a map for visitors and friends to follow. I, being the fairly technically minded guy that I am, would like to help with that. [more inside]
posted by rabble at 3:46 PM PST - 5 comments

Something to discuss at Passover seder?

I have been invited to a Passover seder, with the following wish: "It would be great if everyone could prepare something for the Seder (a question for discussion, a commentary on the Hagadda, an idea about Pesach, a poem…)" Any interesting suggestions?
posted by grouse at 3:10 PM PST - 15 comments

Is Google's Asian translation trustworthy?

Can I trust Google's translations of English to Korean, Japanese, and Chinese? [more inside]
posted by The Deej at 2:42 PM PST - 23 comments

Applying letters to book board.

I need to apply custom type to Davey Board (bookbinding board), is screen printing my only option? [more inside]
posted by Sreiny at 2:34 PM PST - 9 comments

iTunes Laptop/Desktop Blues

How do I get iTunes to stop reverting the music folder back to my local laptop drive every time I leave the house? How can I play music that is housed on my desktop from my laptop through my stereo receiver?! [more inside]
posted by abbyladybug at 2:21 PM PST - 13 comments

Dealing with guilt?

How do you deal with a family member who constantly inflicts feelings of guilt? [more inside]
posted by jca at 2:06 PM PST - 29 comments

How would I mix two sources of audio so that I can listen to them through my headphones at the same time?

I have audio coming from two sources; a Bell satelite receiver (RCA outputs) and my computer (phono?). I would like to listen to both audio sources so that I can watch TV and play games at the same time while not disturbing my family.
posted by cbushko at 1:53 PM PST - 6 comments

Disinfected flowers for hospitalized patients?

How can I disinfect flowers that I want to present to my dad in critical care? [more inside]
posted by elamp at 1:49 PM PST - 21 comments

US-India dual citizenship

I have some questions about dual citizenship (U.S.-Indian). [more inside]
posted by anjamu at 1:37 PM PST - 18 comments

Is this non-compete rubbish or what?

Two-part question about non-compete contracts... [more inside]
posted by notsnot at 1:37 PM PST - 22 comments

Get well soon card for Granny

Ideas for a get-well-soon card for a grandmother with a dislocated hip? [more inside]
posted by ITheCosmos at 1:14 PM PST - 9 comments

Anyone know who's singing this song?

I don't know if I'm living under a rock, but I can't place who's singing the song on the Lacoste website - http://www.lacoste.com/usa/main.html . I keep refreshing the site just to listen to the music (no this is not a plug - I do not now nor have I ever owned anything Lacoste....Nor am I affiliated with the artist ;-)
posted by JimBobNoPants at 12:48 PM PST - 9 comments

Did Kafka experience something like this before writing The Metamorphosis?

What was I experiencing this morning? If I was awake, then I would be sort of concerned about my mental health. If I was asleep, then I would just regard it as regular bizarre dream stuff. However, I think I was somewhere in between the two. [more inside]
posted by eighth_excerpt at 12:30 PM PST - 23 comments

How to make my RSS feed display on my web page?

I want to create a page that archives my podcasts with titles, descriptions, and (most important) links to the mp3 enclosures for downloading. [more inside]
posted by La Cieca at 12:08 PM PST - 9 comments

Looking for parody of popular Chinese Philosophy

Looking for parodies of Asian philosophy in Western Media... [more inside]
posted by GilloD at 12:06 PM PST - 21 comments

Got my viagra, need some contacts.

Recommended off-shore vendor for contact lenses? I'm looking for a foreign firm that will deliver to the US without a prescription, preferably overnight. [more inside]
posted by I Love Tacos at 12:00 PM PST - 17 comments

Use a regular expression to parse a directory tree

I'm trying to write a regex that gets passed into a java class to validate that a file is in a certain directory structure. [more inside]
posted by toomuch at 11:25 AM PST - 3 comments

The Gods Must Be Petty

I'm working on a boardgame in which gods punish mortals, and am looking for examples from throughout mythology that demonstrate divinely disproportionate responses to human action. Can someone point me to particularly useful references, or offer up good examples? The game will probably be Greek mythology-themed, but I'm curious about examples of the phenomenon from any culture.
posted by blueshammer at 11:15 AM PST - 30 comments

Grinding noise from wheels

The front wheels are making a grinding noise when I move the steering wheel to the left ('98 Accord.) Happens even when the brakes aren't being pressed. Can anyone provide a Bill Frist-style remote diagnosis, and will I regret it if I don't bring it in to the shop for two more days?
posted by Saucy Intruder at 10:17 AM PST - 25 comments

Microsoft does Flash Gordon

Microsoft did a video ad based on a Flash Gordon film. It may have been for one of their server lines. The ad is a howl. Where can a copy be downloaded?
posted by Raybun at 10:05 AM PST - 4 comments

On the road again...

I'm flying up to Cleveland in May for a business meeting and have been toying with the idea of renting a car to drive home to Texas. What's the best way to approach this? [more inside]
posted by DragonBoy at 10:03 AM PST - 7 comments

How to improve complexion ?

Is there any way to improve complexion ? My complexion is wheatish .. How can I become fairer ?
posted by inquisitive at 9:57 AM PST - 27 comments

Microwave: Is 800 watts enough?

Microwave oven: Is 800 watts enough? [more inside]
posted by sveskemus at 9:17 AM PST - 21 comments

Fix it or junk it?

At what point is a car not worth repairing? [more inside]
posted by COBRA! at 8:59 AM PST - 42 comments

Should I freelance or go on staff?

Is there a rule of thumb about freelance rates vs. staff salaries? [more inside]
posted by catesbie at 8:43 AM PST - 22 comments

Um, how do I make the text baselines even in our magazine?

How do you set type in DTP software so that a story with multiple sections has even lines across a four column grid? [more inside]
posted by anonpeon at 8:42 AM PST - 10 comments

Let's get on with it!

I'm looking for software that will help me make better use of the time I spend on my computer. It should help me stay productive and discourage procrastination. [more inside]
posted by koenie at 8:39 AM PST - 9 comments

Quotes advocating censorship

I'm looking for quotes from famous nasty-folk saying, roughly, that the people can't be trusted with information 'cuz they'll misinterpret it. [more inside]
posted by ykjay at 8:10 AM PST - 8 comments

Tax filing date if I'm getting a refund?

If I'm getting a tax refund, do I still have to file by April 17th (this year)? Someone told me that if you're getting a refund, it doesn't matter when you file......thanks!
posted by webjunkie at 8:09 AM PST - 14 comments

Suggestions on early onset Parkinson's

My Dad, who's 64, has just been diagnosed with Parkinson's. He has had shaking hands for about a year. He's a scientist and a very bright guy. I'm worried about him, and am about to start research on what can be done to eliminate the symptoms and slow things down. Could anyone provide me with good sources to start off with? [more inside]
posted by Yavsy at 7:46 AM PST - 9 comments

gift taxes

Must I report gifts on my tax return? I know the giver must pay the gift tax on gifts over $11,000, but do I have to report having recieved it anywhere on my 1040?
posted by saffron at 7:13 AM PST - 12 comments

Ever used bestfares.com? Gotten good airfare prices elsewhere?

Bestfares.com. Scam or worthwhile deals? Does anybody have experience with bestfares.com? It's a $60 annual membership to get, ostensibly, below "sale" prices on lots of fares. And they look cheap. 'm most interested in airfares only (US + Int'l) and not in cruises, Vegas junkets, or hotels. Is it worth it? Any other hot ideas for actually getting cheap fares to, say, Europe?
posted by zpousman at 6:34 AM PST - 16 comments

It goes wikki-wikki but not voopa-voopa

Looking for [Sony] turntable repair somewhere between Houston and Mobile. [more inside]
posted by kuperman at 6:19 AM PST - 1 comment

ha-ay, you looking so fine flexible spending account

A question for the female four-eyed hipsters among us. Which eyeglasses are considered cool this spring? [more inside]
posted by cior at 5:54 AM PST - 19 comments

Do the berries make it boozier?

Does a vodka fruit infusion ferment? Is the resulting drink more alcoholic than the base distilled spirit? [more inside]
posted by aneel at 1:41 AM PST - 14 comments

April 10

How to get lipstick and scuba mask staining off of a mannequin's "skin"?

Is there some kind of special soap for mannequins? [more inside]
posted by MightyNez at 11:31 PM PST - 6 comments

Why is it called /etc?

On Unix systems, what is the origin of the directory name "/etc"? That is, why is it called that versus "config", "conf", or anything else that might make sense? Thanks!
posted by arrhn at 10:07 PM PST - 44 comments

Bicycle tire pressure on airplane

Should bicycle tubes be deflated for an airplane journey? [more inside]
posted by wavejumper at 9:15 PM PST - 17 comments

Scheduling bocce ball league.

Help my friend schedule his bocce leauge: 8 bocce ball teams meet weekly, playing 8 games a week over 4 timeslots (7pm, 8pm, 9pm, 10pm) in 2 courts (courts E and W). [more inside]
posted by ao4047 at 8:41 PM PST - 2 comments

Statue of a Newfoundland standing on a serpent on a fruit encrusted pillar?

In Fors Clavigera, Letter V. (written in 1871), John Ruskin posts the following description of a piece of Victorian sculpture (which he goes on to castigate): [more inside]
posted by PinkStainlessTail at 8:07 PM PST - 8 comments

Dollar bill levitation

How is this small object levitation magic trick done? [more inside]
posted by underwater at 8:00 PM PST - 10 comments

Airport Disconnects

My iBook loves to disconnect from my Airport Express that I have set up in my dorm room. Basically, I'll go to sleep, go to the laundry room, or come back from class, and the network doesn't show up in my "Available" list anymore. The green light is still on (it's not showing yellow, blinking or otherwise), and the only way to fix it is to unplug the router for about 5 seconds and reconnect (effectively resetting it). [more inside]
posted by rossination at 7:58 PM PST - 12 comments

You spin me right round baby, right round.

Resolution of a physics paradox; I figure that someone here knows far more than I do. [more inside]
posted by vernondalhart at 7:50 PM PST - 42 comments

I'm not procrastinating. Really.

What kind of camera might a child own in 1963 in Canada? (Nova Scotia to be precise.) [more inside]
posted by typewriter at 7:37 PM PST - 14 comments

Spooky mobile?

Glow in the dark art car? (more glowing inside) [more inside]
posted by jeribus at 7:10 PM PST - 5 comments

The Badger Sheet Music

Sheet music for The Badger by the Tea party? [more inside]
posted by blue_beetle at 7:08 PM PST - 2 comments

Help find or identify this effective morroccan psoriasis remedy

Can anyone help me identify these Moroccan products for psoriasis treatment? psoriasis sufferers, net detectives or Moroccans read in! [more inside]
posted by chrissyboy at 6:40 PM PST - 15 comments

Sue... this!

Is an email "Cease and Desist" letter a legal notification? I have been under the impression that a piece of paper, duly sworn, sweared and served was required. New York, civil matter. Yes, I know your not my lawyer.
posted by cedar at 6:19 PM PST - 15 comments

AC/DC is hard to sing!

Singers... I need your advice on vocal care. [more inside]
posted by SwingingJohnson1968 at 5:54 PM PST - 23 comments

What is the nature of the relationship between thought and language?

What is the nature of the relationship between thought and language? [more inside]
posted by Frankieist at 5:38 PM PST - 31 comments

Can I Backpack across Africa Alone?

Can I safely backpack through Africa (East to West) alone? [more inside]
posted by RufusW at 5:12 PM PST - 35 comments

But Sarge, will this look good on my resume?

What sort of actual skills does one learn in Army Ranger school, SERE school, or USMC Basic Recon school? I see and hear a lot about mental conditioning, but little about what else this sort of training covers. [more inside]
posted by scaryblackdeath at 5:08 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I tell if my future dive shop is a cowboy operation likely to kill me?

Are there any resources that track dive shop safety? [more inside]
posted by Amizu at 4:59 PM PST - 4 comments

I can hear you, just barely hear you

I used to have one of those old VCRs where you had to tune each channel in by hand. It had a set of tiny little dials that let you scan the entire TV spectrum (and beyond?). When the cable wire was plugged in, I could tune in some bizzare things in the audio: rhythmic clicking, low pulses, and most interestingly, other people's phone calls. I assume I was picking up cordless phones, but how did this work? Did the cable system act as a giant antenna all over town? Has this phenomenon ever been documented anywhere?
posted by stopgap at 4:36 PM PST - 6 comments

Where can I watch Texas Rangers Baseball

Where can I watch Texas Rangers Baseball in College Station, TX (77840) [more inside]
posted by Kraki at 4:27 PM PST - 5 comments

Is my bank account filled with kryptonite?

How do I find a competent human at the IRS? Or will my refund get spent by someone else, whose account number was mistakenly used (by my incompetent preparer) on my return? [more inside]
posted by garfy3 at 4:07 PM PST - 14 comments

Roommate predicament, should I pay or not?

Roommate predicament, should I pay or not? [more inside]
posted by thefinned1 at 3:40 PM PST - 28 comments

Looking for surveys about spam

I am writing an essay (that I plan to dedicate a public website to) about spam. I am looking for surveys about what techniques/software/hardware people use to combat it. I also need to know what proportion of ISPs have built-in spam protection these days. [more inside]
posted by zaebiz at 3:28 PM PST - 8 comments

How do I keep my black car clean?

How do I keep my black car clean? [more inside]
posted by karmaville at 3:06 PM PST - 17 comments

College Directory

I need to find a website that has a list of universities / colleges by state and also by size and city? Does this list exist some where?
posted by matimer at 3:03 PM PST - 1 comment

How to remove a CD drive on a Dell 5160 laptop?

The CDRW/DVD-ROM drive on my Dell 5160 laptop is dead. I have a replacement drive. But I don't know how to pull the old one. I've worked on desktops quite a bit, but I've never done any real service on a laptop, other than upgrading memory. My Google-Fu has failed me. Can you help?
posted by wheat at 3:01 PM PST - 5 comments

Black metal suggestions? (for jewelry, not listening)

Looking for a black, matte-finish metal for a durable men's ring. Ideas? Things to avoid? [more inside]
posted by Gucky at 3:01 PM PST - 18 comments

Need better scheduling software...

Anyone have the holy grail of personnel scheduling? Web based, muli-user, and.... [more inside]
posted by griffey at 2:44 PM PST - 3 comments

MyYahoo Filter

Does MyYahoo work for anyone else since they switched to the drop-and-drag interface? And if so can you tell me how to get mine working correctly? I've tried to use Yahoo help but didn't get more than an automated response and a "we've forwarded this to our development team" message. [more inside]
posted by octothorpe at 2:42 PM PST - 2 comments

Coffee, Tea, or Me?

Lonely flight attendant...Help me! [more inside]
posted by thesiameseffect at 2:35 PM PST - 31 comments

Hot for teacher?

MetaFilter cinemaphiles...please help me find movies that in which the dominant theme (or important supporting theme) is the relationship between teacher and students. [more inside]
posted by luneray at 2:16 PM PST - 53 comments

Albatross 18 Panyga Golf Game Ladyfilter. Help me get him to turn off this game for good.

Albatross 18 Panyga Golf Game Ladyfilter: My boyfriend plays over 9 hours a day all weekend on this free Internet community golf game, stays up until 2am. As you can imagine this hinders conversation and our sex lives, drives me mad. After 2 months together How do I get him off this game for good when he is at my house!!
posted by sandrapbrady at 1:50 PM PST - 11 comments

Baby-moon

Help me plan my baby-moon [more inside]
posted by Wolfie at 1:42 PM PST - 7 comments

Shorthand

Is there a class that I can take in Los Angeles on taking notes in shorthand? maybe at SMC or Valley College?
posted by joshuak at 1:09 PM PST - 5 comments

EX.com/file.mp3 to AMPLE.com/home.html

Is there a way to make requests for Mp3s on EX.com redirect to an Html file on AMPLE.com? [more inside]
posted by Satapher at 12:58 PM PST - 5 comments

Where can I get customized thumb drives cheap?

Where is the cheapest place to get about 1000, 256mb USB thumb drives imprinted (not just a sticker) with my company logo made?
posted by banished at 12:53 PM PST - 4 comments

???

Is there an accepted way to type the noise one makes when whistling? Fweet-fweet? I'm out of ideas.
posted by Krrrlson at 12:42 PM PST - 31 comments

A simple off-line project management application?

I'm looking for a simple off-line project management application. [more inside]
posted by Grinder at 12:37 PM PST - 6 comments

How to program toggle-able JPanels?

Java question: how to program a toggle-view in a GUI? [more inside]
posted by invitapriore at 12:32 PM PST - 8 comments

Creative works by people with OCD?

I am looking for creative works by people with obsessive-compulsive disorder. [more inside]
posted by Marit at 12:24 PM PST - 16 comments

Remote GUI Sessions on Linux

Remote X Server access over SSH. I've got a Linux (Ubuntu) server that I have root access to over SSH and a Windows XP workstation that I'd like to set up as the client. Any good resources and tutorials? [more inside]
posted by voidcontext at 12:21 PM PST - 25 comments

30d or d200? (camera suggestions)

Camera and lens suggestions for relative newbie. [more inside]
posted by null terminated at 12:11 PM PST - 36 comments

Do you live in Manhattan and write code for a living ?

Looking for personal accounts from people living in Manhattan and working in the embedded systems field [more inside]
posted by cobrien at 12:08 PM PST - 1 comment

Yet another iPod question

Yet another iPod question: before I send in my iPod for expensive repairs, I thought I'd check here...anyone else ever experience their iPod only playing the instrumental track? Was it fixable? [more inside]
posted by elquien at 12:00 PM PST - 18 comments

Fun driving games involving mayhem

Is there another video game that captures the fun of driving around in Grand Theft Auto, crashing into things and running from the police? I have a ps2 and a PC. [more inside]
posted by agropyron at 11:38 AM PST - 28 comments

Chinese Instruction

I'm thinking of enrolling in a program at Portland State University called Master's in International Management. The program has a year of five days a week Mandarin instruction. Is this really enough time to become proficient in the language?
posted by josher71 at 11:27 AM PST - 6 comments

Sharing one set of 5.1 speakers between two computers?

Sharing one set of 5.1 speakers between two computers? [more inside]
posted by kenchie at 10:43 AM PST - 5 comments

Silent Keyboard Recommendations

Recommendations for a silent (or as close as possible) USB computer keyboard? It will be plugged into an IBM ThinkPad T42.
posted by NotMyselfRightNow at 10:24 AM PST - 8 comments

Homeschooling info and related background check needed.

Home schooling info and related background check needed. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:22 AM PST - 8 comments

Can't we all just get along?

We [lawyer, Japanese wife, 10-y.o. kid who likes tennis] are moving to Portland/area. We found a house we like in Lake Oswego, but... [religious and racial bigotry inside] [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:22 AM PST - 22 comments

What are the mobile govenment antennas?

What was the big antenna attached to the federal government pickup truck? [more inside]
posted by Etaoin Shrdlu at 10:15 AM PST - 5 comments

Linguaesthetics

What does English sound like? [more inside]
posted by xanthippe at 10:08 AM PST - 51 comments

Where did this Coke come from?

Please help me identify a Coca-Cola product's country of origin. [more inside]
posted by milquetoast at 9:29 AM PST - 13 comments

No naming the child Damien suggestions please.

SuperstitiousFilter: Our Doctor wants to induce my wife to deliver our first (baby boy) on June 6th. Am I crazy or is having a baby on 06/06/06 just asking for trouble? Or will it be a fun story for my boy to tell when he gets old? [more inside]
posted by skrike at 9:17 AM PST - 49 comments

On-screen sexual intercourse - a comparitive study

Any film that is pornographic in nature depicts sex as an interaction of two bodies that resembles two jackhammers fighting. Anything rated 18 or lower pictures sex as something that happens with virtually no movement and very little exertion. Why have these two forms not only seperated but moved quite so far apart? [it'll probably get NSFW in here] [more inside]
posted by twine42 at 9:08 AM PST - 24 comments

Canon 20d no longer appears on desktop

For a friend: Canon 20d not showing up on imac desktop... [more inside]
posted by sanko at 8:54 AM PST - 5 comments

Summer mens fragrance in a blue bottle

What men's fragrance comes in a tallish bottle (not squat), is blue and smells quite light, but very classy? [more inside]
posted by lunkfish at 8:52 AM PST - 12 comments

Must...not...kill...nephews

Best cuban food in Ft Lauderdale? Things to do while in town? [more inside]
posted by Eddie Mars at 8:36 AM PST - 12 comments

Concert films help please!

Movies wanted to show before gigs. [more inside]
posted by djstig at 8:31 AM PST - 31 comments

Going MUDding

I'd like to join a text-based RPG MUD. [more inside]
posted by aebaxter at 8:30 AM PST - 14 comments

Where can I find Iranian animation?

Where can I find Iranian animation online or in Los Angeles? [more inside]
posted by maxreax at 8:15 AM PST - 2 comments

Taxes suck

Am I being cheated out of my Mortgage Interest paid? [more inside]
posted by lucyleaf at 7:52 AM PST - 12 comments

What does Board Certified mean for a doctor?

Seeking a new internist, family doctor, and wonder what Board Certified means as relevant to credentials [more inside]
posted by Postroad at 7:23 AM PST - 6 comments

Sounds just fine

If sound were to travel closer to, say, the speed of light than the speed of sound, would we still be able to determine its horizontal direction? [more inside]
posted by disillusioned at 5:18 AM PST - 20 comments

Help me stop thinking I'm evil.

Will I ever be able to stop thinking that I am evil? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:04 AM PST - 31 comments

How can I work out which parts of my yard are sunny?

I'm looking for an app that will calculate how much sun different parts of my yard get over the year. [more inside]
posted by obiwanwasabi at 3:34 AM PST - 7 comments

What about the ROUS's?

Quicksand without lots of water. What gives? [more inside]
posted by aubilenon at 3:21 AM PST - 8 comments

Annoying Hollywood cliches?

After reading this question from last week I began to wonder: Are there any conventions/cliches in fiction that stray so far from reality that they distract you from the believability of the story and have no story telling merit? [more inside]
posted by Acey at 3:12 AM PST - 82 comments

How do I enjoy my new computer speakers without pissing off the downstairs neighbors?

I love my new 5.1 computer speakers, but my downstairs neighbors don't, which has let to occasionally angry banging coming from downstairs. It's not like I'm blasting sci-fi movies at 2 in the morning, but is there anything I can do with the subwoofer to minimize the impact to them but not emasculate the boom-boominess of my Quake 4 too much. Difficulty: no "turn down your subwoofer". It's already down.
posted by softlord at 2:26 AM PST - 14 comments

Well, aren't YOU crabby tonight...

Hmm... ruh-roh. I've just developed a craving. Where can I get really good crab in the San Francisco Bay Area? [more inside]
posted by symphonik at 2:18 AM PST - 8 comments

April 9

Car Mounted Water Cannon

I'm building a water cannon that shoots out from the grill of my car. Range is lacking, and I (probably) don't have the funds for a more powerful pump. I need a better nozzle, possibly one utilizing a blowoff valve to build pressure. Advise. [more inside]
posted by Derive the Hamiltonian of... at 11:43 PM PST - 30 comments

Factoring 'Time' into Astronomic Observations

AskMeFi Physics folk: How do astronomers account for the temporal distinctiveness of their galactic subjects in their calculations? I understand that observations of the red shift of quasars delinates a speed increase in the expansion of the universe - yet my brain explodes when I try to understand how the enormous expanse of time is factored into these models. [more inside]
posted by 0bvious at 11:17 PM PST - 12 comments

slippery sneakers

Is there a non-Skid Spray for shoes? [more inside]
posted by hypersloth at 10:56 PM PST - 3 comments

How to enter drumbeats easily and efficiently

OK. So I have been playing guitar and keyboards and making music for some time now, and I recently have begun doing more work on the computer, composing and recording. I need help making drum tracks. [more inside]
posted by RustyBrooks at 10:50 PM PST - 22 comments

I need cheap, hot Sax.

Years ago, when I needed money badly, I sold my beautiful Selmer tenor sax...I went into another branch of the arts, but lately I've been fooling around with a friend's horn, and I'm really enjoying playing. I don't intend to do anything but amuse myself and maybe play with some like-minded buddies - mostly traditional jazz, some soul horn section type stuff, but definitely no Smooth Jazz or Wailing Rock. The problem is I can't really justify the big bucks replacing my Selmer would cost...and I'm spoiled, of course, by the horn I once owned. Any advice for tenor horns under $1,000 - new or used? How about $2,000? I know the proof is still in the playing and trying, but I'd love some help getting started. thanks!
posted by soulbarn at 10:41 PM PST - 7 comments

I want my lyrics to scroll on a mac!

My friend had this really neat program on his windows computer that I'd like to have, but I have a mac. It was some kind of player that would show the lyrics of the song and actually scroll them while hilighting the appropriate line. Not quite like karaoke, since the individual words weren't hilighted, just the line, but close. It was pretty neat. He said it was ttplayer, but everything I google on that comes up in Chinese! I'm running the latest version of iTunes and Mac OS X Tiger. Suggestions?
posted by riverjack at 10:39 PM PST - 6 comments

Bike for a really tall guy?

Anyone know of a bicycle that would fit a very tall (6' 10") man? Recumbents and velocipedes need not apply.
posted by thinman at 10:29 PM PST - 13 comments

Looking to strengthen my grip

I'd like to strengthen my grip, but those spring handgrips are weak. Do stronger ones exist? [more inside]
posted by tomble at 9:46 PM PST - 16 comments

Non-irritating password remembrance?

I want my browser to remember my password for a couple of sites, but it must assume that I don't want most of my passwords remembered. I hate browser popups that ask "Remember this password?" What's a good solution? I use Firefox on Windows.
posted by pornucopia at 9:44 PM PST - 5 comments

I need a DKP tracker!

I'm helping to administer a World of Warcraft guild and I need a recommendation for a DKP tracker that has some specific requirements. [more inside]
posted by billybunny at 8:24 PM PST - 6 comments

Where to find Passover Coke in Northern Virginia?

Where can I find Passover Coke in Fairfax County, Virginia? [more inside]
posted by cerebus19 at 7:56 PM PST - 10 comments

Looking California, feeling... California

I know nothing about Orange County, but I need to live there for 5 weeks. Help! [more inside]
posted by rkent at 7:37 PM PST - 13 comments

How can I force Firefox to keep images in its cache?

I'm looking for a way to access a very slow, graphics-intensive website more quickly. How can I force Firefox to keep this website's images in its cache? [more inside]
posted by meeeeeep at 7:32 PM PST - 7 comments

"Flash sunsets"?

Overcast skies at twlight, looking westward. A bright flash of white light, followed by instant red. Sunset, in the blink of an eye! What is this phenomenon called?
posted by Laugh_track at 6:22 PM PST - 7 comments

A question about sign language.

A question for those familiar with American Sign Language (or other signed languages): When hearing speakers are surprised or shocked or wish to indicate they have just said something they shouldn't they often clap their hands over their mouth. This is usually immediate and seems almost involuntary. Is there something similar used by deaf signers or do they tend to use the same gesture hearing people do? [more inside]
posted by LeeJay at 5:52 PM PST - 10 comments

What's to do in Frankfurt?

I have a one-night stop-over in Frankfurt—please advise me. [more inside]
posted by hobbes at 5:42 PM PST - 7 comments

Hickey embarassment reduction?

Emergency hickeyectomy - STAT! [more inside]
posted by tristeza at 5:36 PM PST - 27 comments

Study tips

Study tips for a mature age distance education student? Most specifically, what do you do when you’ve read the same paragraph 3 times and you still haven’t retained any information from it? [more inside]
posted by b33j at 4:35 PM PST - 14 comments

Driving suggestions from Vancouver, B.C. to Seattle

Planning to drive between these two cities this summer and would be interested to know a.) how long would the quickest route take (and what is it) b.) can you suggest a scenic route (and how long you think it might take).
posted by quintno at 4:32 PM PST - 4 comments

Can't play it again, Sam!

Netflix users, a straw poll: Recently at least one third of my discs arrive heavily scratched up and skip heavily. Are your experiences similar or do I have a terrible dvd player that hates me?
posted by fatllama at 4:18 PM PST - 40 comments

Rock That Sax

Looking for Rock Saxophone instrumentals, not hooks whole songs. [more inside]
posted by Xurando at 4:03 PM PST - 19 comments

A Special New Band

Help me track down a pop punk band I heard on a small Berkeley radio station Tuesday evening (4/4). They may have played in LA last weekend (4/1-4/2). [more inside]
posted by salvia at 4:01 PM PST - 7 comments

Making Elder Scrolls IV Accessible

GamesFilter: Can this gamer with a physical disability play Elder Scrolls IV? [more inside]
posted by wintermute2_0 at 3:22 PM PST - 11 comments

I'm myth-taken

I seem to have my goddesses and creatures mixed up in my head. I'm looking for the name of a creature that can turn into a crow/raven or wolf, and stalk through a battle field feeding on the souls of the dying. [more inside]
posted by FunkyHelix at 2:45 PM PST - 8 comments

Is there a way to remove mildew off of a painted wall without bleaching/stripping the paint?

MildewFilter: Is there a way to remove mildew off of a painted indoor wall without bleaching/stripping the paint? [more inside]
posted by spiderskull at 1:18 PM PST - 7 comments

Nothing That Came from A Lemur's Ass, Please.

Where does one find the best whole-bean espresso in Seattle? [more inside]
posted by Danelope at 1:10 PM PST - 10 comments

how many calories can there be in 1g?

Which food has the highest number of calories per gram?
posted by reklaw at 12:34 PM PST - 19 comments

Comments on "The John Batchelor Show"?

Has anyone out there heard "The John Batchelor Show" on the radio, and if so can they characterize it in terms of content and quality? [more inside]
posted by hwestiii at 12:25 PM PST - 1 comment

His Master's Voice

Is there any way to clean a discolored home entertainment speaker cover? [more inside]
posted by tpl1212 at 12:21 PM PST - 3 comments

Is there a shoptheuk.com?

There are some UK sites I'd like to purchase from but they don't ship here to the States. Anyone know of a workaround that doesn't involve personally knowing someone over there? Something like shopthestates.com, but for UK shopping...
posted by teddymac at 12:18 PM PST - 4 comments

TrainFilter: how would I find out who owns these tracks, and if they are still in use?

how would I find out who owns these tracks, and if they are still in use? [more inside]
posted by Izzmeister at 12:05 PM PST - 12 comments

When the band you love becomes famous, how do you feel?

I'm looking for an essay posted somewhere that was a response to cynical music fans who were "put out" when their special underground band hit the mainstream and became sellouts. [more inside]
posted by dhacker at 11:57 AM PST - 16 comments

Ground Control to Major Tom, Your Circuit's Dead, There's Something Wrong

I receive a weak wireless signal in my dorm room. With this connection I can use AIM, send and receive e-mail, and upload and download from my FTP site, but I can never view web pages - everything always times out. Am I missing some solution that will let me get on the web? I'm using WinXP. [more inside]
posted by ludwig_van at 11:12 AM PST - 17 comments

How badly have I messed up my taxes?

I earned 12,100 total income this year. All 1099. Have not made any estimated payments. How bad is my tax situation? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:05 AM PST - 18 comments

What art should I see in NYC?

What museums or current art shows should I visit while in NYC over Easter weekend?
posted by joe_from_accounting at 10:59 AM PST - 15 comments

How do I schedule web screenshots from a Linux box?

I want to take a screenshot of a particular web-page every 15 minutes from a Linux server (no running X server). Ideally, I would like a command-line application, but a free or very cheap and reliable web service might work for me. What are my options?
posted by rjt at 10:40 AM PST - 7 comments

Download PHP 4.2.2 for Windows

Where can I find a Windows binary or installer for PHP 4.2.2? [more inside]
posted by matthewr at 9:22 AM PST - 4 comments

Should I go skydiving?

Should I go skydiving? [more inside]
posted by Afroblanco at 9:05 AM PST - 32 comments

What are the current challenges in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina?

What are the current challenges in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina? [more inside]
posted by photoslob at 8:42 AM PST - 3 comments

Help me learn about the lens like device used by photographers.

What is the lens like device that photographers use to view photographs at very close range (almost next to their faces) and why do they use it?
posted by sk381 at 8:40 AM PST - 11 comments

Do children see darkness as "blacker" than adults?

Do children see darkness as "blacker" than adults? [more inside]
posted by Bugbread at 7:05 AM PST - 21 comments

Rosemary, baby.

What do I do with all this rosemary? [more inside]
posted by BitterOldPunk at 3:00 AM PST - 27 comments

Long lost father is trying to contact me.

My father who I never knew, is trying to contact me. Should I bother? [more inside]
posted by KevinSkomsvold at 2:33 AM PST - 59 comments

pronunciation practice software

I’m trying to learn Italian and I’d like to find some software to help me with pronunciation practice. [more inside]
posted by rdr at 2:32 AM PST - 3 comments

Harmonic pop?

Recently I have been listening to Magic Numbers, The Thorns, Hal and Teenage Fanclub. Should I listen to Crosby Stills Nash & Young, Big Star, Badfinger, Mamas & Papas, Raspberries, Bread or America? [more inside]
posted by meech at 2:18 AM PST - 16 comments

Extracting a video from Flash site

I licensed my short film to the CBC program "Zed" and it showed recently. They also put the video, along with a nice little host intro, up on their site. I'd love to have a copy of this and would like to download it, but the video is deeply embedded in flash and I can't figure out how to download a copy or find it in my cache. Any ideas? The video is here. Thanks for any help! (I have OS X running Firefox.)
posted by debris at 12:37 AM PST - 12 comments

April 8

Best food from every culture

What is the best food dish (speciality) out of every culture? I've decided to try at least one thing from as many cultures as I can think of and find an authentic meal for each. For example, I know nothing about Korean, German, Ethiopian, Lebanese, Portuguese, or Irish food - any suggestions there? Thanks!
posted by agregoli at 11:19 PM PST - 58 comments

Is my iBook hosed?

Possible water spill on the trackpad and button; is my iBook damaged? [more inside]
posted by Emperor Yamamoto's Eggs at 10:30 PM PST - 6 comments

Best options for an out-of-country Cal Bar Exam taker?

California Bar Exam: not only out-of-state, but out-of-country. Should I pony up for the Bar/Bri? [more inside]
posted by livii at 8:04 PM PST - 14 comments

RSS Mashup & Duplicate Removal

Looking for a tool that can take multiple RSS feeds, strip duplicate entries and output a single feed. None of the RSS meshing tools I'm seeing seem to offer the duplicate removal. I'm subscribed to searches through 20+ feeds to make sure I catch all available references of a URL on blogs, courtesy of MonitorThis, but the number of duplicates is becoming a big problem.
posted by will at 8:01 PM PST - 3 comments

Strange PC noises

What are the strange noises coming from my computer? [more inside]
posted by raddevon at 7:50 PM PST - 16 comments

Running programs from an external hard drive: good or bad idea?

Running programs from an external hard drive... good idea or bad idea, and why? [more inside]
posted by the_bone at 7:18 PM PST - 14 comments

Ideas for a mad science wedding?

Can anyone suggest interesting science-flavored demonstrations, experiments, or spectacles to be performed at a wedding? [more inside]
posted by fermion at 6:57 PM PST - 35 comments

Good hard rock karaoke songs

Help me pick some hard rockin' Karaoke songs for tonight [more inside]
posted by markblasco at 6:05 PM PST - 20 comments

Will the Canadian Goverment prepare my taxes for free?

Canadian Income Tax Question: Will the Canada Revenue Agency do my taxes for me? [more inside]
posted by chudmonkey at 5:22 PM PST - 12 comments

Help me optimize this naughty function!

OptimizationFilter: I need to maximize a function of about ten variables. I can only approximate the value of this function at any point, by running a simulation which takes about a minute of computation time. [more inside] [more inside]
posted by lenny70 at 5:04 PM PST - 19 comments

Oh what a tangled Web 2.0 we weave

Where did the current design trends in web design (featured prominently in Web 2.0) have their genesis? [more inside]
posted by bjork24 at 4:15 PM PST - 26 comments

Vegetable garden pest questions.

Garden pest questions and a couple insect identification requests for this bug and this bug. [more inside]
posted by mojabunni at 4:11 PM PST - 9 comments

Identify this plant.

Help me identify this succulent. [more inside]
posted by ozomatli at 3:57 PM PST - 15 comments

Quotation help needed.

Who said "libraries are the university of the poor" or something like that? [more inside]
posted by scratch at 3:26 PM PST - 9 comments

Getting the full VOB off DVD

I'm trying to get some video off of a burned DVD. I'm using Streamclip and Quicktime and it's working fine -- except that the clips I'm getting are only a fraction of what's actually on the DVD (maybe 5%). Does anyone know how I can 'find' the full clips and then put them into a format I can use? (.mov) There's other stuff listed (bup and iso), but as I understand it VOBs are the only things you want...
posted by jgballard at 2:54 PM PST - 4 comments

Why won't my website print?

Why won't my website print in Firefox? [more inside]
posted by cbrody at 2:51 PM PST - 7 comments

Fibroid treatment options

My fibroids have gone from nuisance to pain, and I'd like to get rid of them. What method(s) would you recommend? [more inside]
posted by rosemere at 2:41 PM PST - 9 comments

Increasing website traffic... instantly

Are there any free and lawful ways to goose website traffic instantly? [more inside]
posted by rinkjustice at 2:26 PM PST - 12 comments

Is wet food necessary for the spoiled little bastard?

Is there any reason why I should be feeding my cat wet and dry food, instead of just dry food? [more inside]
posted by granted at 2:24 PM PST - 23 comments

Is blog plagiarism now just customary?

Can or should I bother to bust a blogspot blogger for blatant plagiarism? [more inside]
posted by tula at 2:14 PM PST - 19 comments

Greek-English Old Testament

Help me find an interlinear NIV Greek-English Old Testament. [more inside]
posted by nile_red at 2:01 PM PST - 13 comments

Trying to walk out of here and buy groceries on a fried drumstick

Any recommendations for grocery delivery in Vancouver, BC? [more inside]
posted by solid-one-love at 1:20 PM PST - 5 comments

All I know is, they're green

Avocados. What do you all like to do with them BESIDES guacamole?
posted by konolia at 12:17 PM PST - 62 comments

Loading images into Powerpoint

I need to "load up" Powerpoint with a directory of 150 jpegs, one image per slide. And I have to do this for 5 presentations. This is REALLY tedious to do by hand, one by one. What can I do? I don't want to use a slideshow program because I do want to sort images and append text on the slides.
posted by zek at 12:14 PM PST - 3 comments

iTunes, Mozilla Vs. WMP, IE.

iTunes and Mozilla. Slow? or fast? [more inside]
posted by Devileyezz at 12:10 PM PST - 13 comments

Problems with naming a band after other people's names

Are there any problems with naming a band after other people's names -- people we don't know? [more inside]
posted by pealco at 12:08 PM PST - 17 comments

How to hook wireless cam to laptop for pics?

Can I hook a camera (meant for security) to a computer to take pics? [more inside]
posted by thinds66 at 11:59 AM PST - 7 comments

How do YOU make rum punch?

What is your killer recipe for rum punch? Like they make in the Caribbean/Central America. Except that I am going to make it in suburban Boston and pretend that I am in the Caribbean.
posted by Mayor Curley at 11:38 AM PST - 8 comments

"Like a Prayer" cover by a string quartet?

Last night I heard a great version of this song recorded by what sounded like a string quartet. Does anyone know anything about this cover? Google has failed me.
posted by lunasol at 11:30 AM PST - 3 comments

Collection Agency Information

Tell me about collection agencies in general, and collection agencies in Portland, OR in particular. [more inside]
posted by hopeless romantique at 11:00 AM PST - 10 comments

Are there truly virtual worlds in existence?

Are there real/virtual worlds yet? [more inside]
posted by Kickstart70 at 10:52 AM PST - 10 comments

Bull Run style rap

Name that "Yo MTV Raps"-era video. [more inside]
posted by johngoren at 10:10 AM PST - 6 comments

How can I find syndicated shows from the start?

Is there a site that lists when shows in syndication are being run in order from the first episode? The goal is to get a TiVo season pass and watch the episodes in order. [more inside]
posted by revgeorge at 9:50 AM PST - 6 comments

How do I get evenly browned pan-fried potatoes?

Is there an easy way to ensure that pan fried potatoes wind up evenly browned on all sides? [more inside]
posted by bloggerwench at 9:33 AM PST - 8 comments

What's the name of this French/English film I saw recently?

What's the name of this French/English film I saw recently? [more inside]
posted by jrengreen at 9:19 AM PST - 4 comments

games made to last

I'm looking for PC games (preferably open-source and/or freeware) that provide limitless amounts of depth and challenge for those willing to stick with them. [more inside]
posted by jimmy at 8:45 AM PST - 26 comments

Am I being ripped off on car repair?

My car needs to be repaired. It is a 2000 Chevy Malibu with 95,000 miles on it and needs new spark plugs, new spark plug wires and the carbon deposits cleaned out of the intake manifold. The repair shop is charging $450 for this. Am I being ripped off?
posted by stockaholic at 8:17 AM PST - 17 comments

portable digital audio(phile)

best solution for portable quality audio? [more inside]
posted by andrew cooke at 7:57 AM PST - 22 comments

Potato, potahto, Muslim, Moslem

Muslim or Moslem? [more inside]
posted by Steve_at_Linnwood at 7:41 AM PST - 21 comments

Seeking Vendetta Mask DIY Suggestions

Any DIY guide links for making a wearable V for Vendetta Mask? [more inside]
posted by vanoakenfold at 2:04 AM PST - 8 comments

How to put together the ultimate Computer security kit?

I want to put together the ultimate Computer security kit to fix my uncle's ailing computer. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by katyggls at 12:48 AM PST - 23 comments

My internet doesn't work

Linuxfilter: why doesn't the internet work? [more inside]
posted by Drunken_munky at 12:00 AM PST - 10 comments

April 7

Is it possible to share network/internet connection via a usb dongle (from XP)?

wifi sharing via USB dongle filter: Is it possible to share network/internet connection via a usb dongle (from XP)? if so how? [more inside]
posted by mule at 10:31 PM PST - 7 comments

I need to make the bulbs in a lamp pulse on and off.

I need to make the bulbs in a lamp pulse on and off. [more inside]
posted by bkeaggy at 10:05 PM PST - 11 comments

how can i recover my data?

i lost a partition in a reformat, but the data is still on my harddrive. i want to get the data off. i have r-studio, but not enough disk space on the existing partition to put the other data on it, and i thought i shouldn't create a new partition to put the data on, as that could mess up remaining data. i don't have an external harddrive. is there any way i can safely get the data off? thanks! [more inside]
posted by willmillar at 9:44 PM PST - 7 comments

"these blow up in funny shapes at all?"

my round, global map, mouse pad freebie (oracle, circa 1994) is gross. can i wash it? or do you have a cool (new) round mousepad link? [more inside]
posted by valkane at 8:59 PM PST - 8 comments

What states are at-will states?

I know that some states are "at will employment" states, and other states are not. But which are which? Is Iowa an at will employment state or not?
posted by delmoi at 8:51 PM PST - 4 comments

.ram files! Aiiiieeeeeee!

Can sometime tell me if there is a plugin for Winamp or perhaps a standalone program that can play .ram files? I would really rather not install Real Audio, I think you can guess why. Any guidance would be most appreciated!
posted by ChaoticIndustry at 8:42 PM PST - 11 comments

Paintings that are only viewable in reflective surfaces

Paintings that are only viewable in reflective surfaces... [more inside]
posted by logicpunk at 8:10 PM PST - 8 comments

6-year-old nephew has severe dyslexia - how can I help?

In the past week, my 6-year-old nephew has been diagnosed with severe dyslexia and significant auditory processing problems. I'd like some information from others -- dyslexics, teachers, parents, sibs, etc. -- in terms of how I can help support my family as much as possible. [more inside]
posted by scody at 8:03 PM PST - 12 comments

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs vs. Malaria?

Years ago in Italy I was watching late night network tv, and they used to love to show really strange stuff for insomniac viewing... Anyway, I saw then an odd Disney public service cartoon that was probably produced right after WWII with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs about how to prevent malaria. You know, like telling Dopey to dump standing water out of abandoned tires and the like. Has anybody ever seen this too? Know where I might be able to find it (and others like it?) Or did I just dream the whole thing?? :-) Thanks!!
posted by Misciel at 7:45 PM PST - 5 comments

Free registration & hosting

Free domain registration & hosting. Hope me. [more inside]
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 7:34 PM PST - 11 comments

Mac boot problem

Strange Mac problem: it won't boot from certain CDs or from the hard drive. Norton Utilities and DiskWarrior both say the hard drive is okay. I'm stumped. Older G3 beige minitower, OS X 10.3. [more inside]
posted by tommasz at 7:32 PM PST - 8 comments

How to remove holes from face.

Please help heal holes in my face. [more inside]
posted by Knigel at 7:30 PM PST - 3 comments

Imagine all the people

DreamWithMe filter: What if everyone read science fiction? How would the world be different? [more inside]
posted by amtho at 7:04 PM PST - 27 comments

can I take kitty outside safely?

Is it dangerous to let a cat outside supervised? [more inside]
posted by entropy at 6:21 PM PST - 52 comments

Why is Delay resigning midterm?

Politics Filter: Why is Rep. Tom Delay resigning in June rather then serving his term out? Please no partisan bickering... [more inside]
posted by meta x zen at 5:45 PM PST - 20 comments

Yet another bicycle question...

Time to get rid of the Wal-Mart bike that got me to and from my grad school classes. I'd like to upgrade to something that will let me join in on local 15-20 mile group rides. What should I be looking for? [more inside]
posted by MsMolly at 5:24 PM PST - 23 comments

usb flashdrive thingie naked

My spiffy little USB flashdrive thingy is coming apart, coming loose from its plastic casing. The metal parallelepiped inside is easier to slip into my wallet and looks cooler, IMO, but I'm wondering what sort of damage all the plastic protected it from. Question:¿will it harm my USB flashdrive thingy to go about naked in the world?
posted by signal at 4:45 PM PST - 12 comments

changing movies

Are there any movies that have changed from, say, comedy to drama midway through? In other words, completely going from one style to another completely different one?
posted by sharksandwich at 4:34 PM PST - 63 comments

Attention planespotters

I snapped this picture of a plane on a typical approach for landing at Dallas-Fort Worth airport. Upon closer inspection, I noticed a small propellor deployed under the plane. Googling taught me its a ram air turbine that is used for emergency power during a hydraulic/electrical failure. Does anybody know if its used under normal conditions, or did a happen to snap a picture of a plane during an (unpublicized) emergency landing?
posted by punkfloyd at 4:06 PM PST - 17 comments

What constitutes speeding?

I have always known (or been told) that you wont get a ticket if you were to exceed the freeway speed limit by 5-10 miles. Why is that? [more inside]
posted by special-k at 3:46 PM PST - 38 comments

cell phones and pedestrians

I remember hearing about an academic study on the effect of cell phones on people's walking behavior (i.e., they were weaving more, etc.) Does this ring any bells for anyone? Or similar studies?
posted by dearleader at 3:24 PM PST - 4 comments

Finding a building's owner.

How can I find the name of the owner of a piece of real estate? [more inside]
posted by StickyCarpet at 3:13 PM PST - 9 comments

No more MarioKart?

Do I have to bury my N64? [more inside]
posted by radioamy at 3:08 PM PST - 11 comments

Hacking a Maxtor external drive

Upgrading (hacking) a 40 GB Maxtor 3000LE USB external drive? [more inside]
posted by mojohand at 3:03 PM PST - 5 comments

Does THC always have an effect when consumed?

Has anyone ever heard of an individual not able to experience the effects of THC after consumption? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:45 PM PST - 19 comments

"Never compare me to Family Guy!"

What movie were they referencing with the whole Hot Wheels sequence in the latest episode of South Park? [more inside]
posted by fungible at 2:33 PM PST - 11 comments

Amnesia: Threat or Menace?

What's the origin of the phrase, "X, threat or menace"?
posted by leotrotsky at 2:29 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm trying to find how much land the feds own in my county

Is there any federal (US) website that details the amount of land owned by the government on a regional basis? [more inside]
posted by buggzzee23 at 2:24 PM PST - 8 comments

taking my g4 for a drive

I need to add a bigger hard drive to my oldish Mac G4. This kind of machine can only see 120G of storage on a drive. [more inside]
posted by zadcat at 2:10 PM PST - 5 comments

Low signal strength on home wife network

Could use some help troubleshooting a signal strength problem on my wireless network [more inside]
posted by gfrobe at 2:03 PM PST - 6 comments

What caused the March 31 spike in MySpace video traffic?

Anyone know what happened on MySpace on March 31 to cause this big jump in MySpace video traffic? [more inside]
posted by nyterrant at 1:55 PM PST - 7 comments

Looking for a song that samples "Love Cats".

Looking for a song that samples "Love Cats". [more inside]
posted by Evangeline at 1:52 PM PST - 8 comments

Computer monitor ghost noise...

What is this diagonal flow of visual noise across the screen of my computer monitor? [more inside]
posted by mrmojoflying at 1:27 PM PST - 3 comments

Kingdom Hearts - what???

Can someone explain Kingdom Hearts to me? [more inside]
posted by turtle42 at 1:09 PM PST - 10 comments

DIY metal toys on the cheap.

I love these retro assemblages. Is it plausible to create small metal assemblage sculptures using nothing but patience and industrial epoxy? and if so,

What epoxies would you recommend?
Are there sites that cheerfully discuss this sort of industrial craftiness? Thanks!

posted by craniac at 12:53 PM PST - 19 comments

how do i ship a heavy 5" binder without a box?

I have a 5" binder full of papers, it weighs about 10-12 pounds. I need to ship it via USPS (so no FedEx, DHL, UPS). [more inside]
posted by misanthropicsarah at 12:37 PM PST - 17 comments

Python - Shell Environment

Is there a way to set an environment variable in the unix shell from a python script? Can I set a variable in the shell that executes that same script? For that matter, is there a way for any script to do this? [more inside]
posted by kuatto at 12:17 PM PST - 8 comments

edit website directly online?

is there an html editor that can edit webpages directly on the website online, or do an illusion of it (ie, do the ftp-ing in the background with local copies)? Ideally it would allow a 'preview' before uploading it back to the host, and ideally you would be able to save 'drafts' locally (like with email) if you want to work on them later. Oh, and ideally it would be free (cost nothing). ;)
posted by jak68 at 11:47 AM PST - 20 comments

How to run a SQL Query on an Excel Spreadsheet

I have an Excel Spreadsheet (using Excel 2003). Rather than creating formulas to answer ad hoc questions that I have, I would like to be able to quickly type in a SQL querty against the data in the spreadsheet. So, I could scroll down to the bottom of the sheet to see how many rows I have, OR I could type" select count(*) from data_table" instead. I prefer the latter. Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by apark at 11:26 AM PST - 6 comments

SATA external drive won't mount to iBook

I just got a new 250GB SATA hard drive and a SATA to USB 2.0 enclosure to put it in. When I plug everything in & hook it to my iBook, I get the following error: "You have inserted a disk containing no volumes that Mac OS X can read. To continue with the disk inserted, click Ignore" (3 options: "Initialize...", "Ignore" or "Eject"). How do I get it to work? [more inside]
posted by cg1 at 11:15 AM PST - 8 comments

What should we do to help make this apartment potty training experience work best?

How should we modify housetraining if we live in an apartment building? [more inside]
posted by gavia at 10:33 AM PST - 8 comments

Where to find further showcases of web2.0-sites?

CSS is gradually becoming more and more popular in the Web. Over the last year web-developers have created CSS Table Gallery, CSS Zen Garden, CSS Navigation Tabs Gallery, Comment Design Showcase, Typography for headlines, Form Assembly Garden, sIFR Beauty Showcase. Do you have any further suggestions?
posted by volandmast at 10:22 AM PST - 11 comments

Help me find this Mexican Vanilla

My mother has been using one particular brand of Mexican Vanilla for years and is almost out of it. She says she can't find it anymore and I'm kinda bummed because it made the best darned cookies. She says it is called La Puresa (Pureza?) and has a pale yellow label. She used to get it by the quart in liquor stores. Any clue as to where you can find the stuff now?
posted by slim at 10:13 AM PST - 13 comments

increase my Mac-fu?

Boot Camp for new MacBook Pro - will it work with Windows 2000 pro, or only XP? [more inside]
posted by lonefrontranger at 10:13 AM PST - 20 comments

Burning a DVD

Hello, We have a video project that we have made inside Adobe Premire 1.5. We have tried to burn it to DVD via Premiere, but it kept giving us a record error. We also have Nero 6, but whenever we select DVD Video and place the avi file into the browser, the record button for burning a DVD is not enabled. Thank you in advance for your help.
posted by cheero at 10:13 AM PST - 10 comments

A single word which means "negatively defined"?

Is there a single word which means "negatively defined" (or "defined by its opposite" or "defined by not being other things" or "defined by the absence of something")? In English if you can manage (I cannot think of one), but maybe in another language? German perhaps?
posted by unknowncommand at 10:07 AM PST - 22 comments

Sources on irony

I'm looking for writing on or examples of "irony"/hipsterism and taste/authenticity/postmodern self-consciousness, etc., or alternatively, historical writing on atomization and society. [more inside]
posted by kensanway at 10:05 AM PST - 15 comments

New York - Late Wages

Do I have any recourse against my employer, who keeps paying me late? [more inside]
posted by light bulb at 9:58 AM PST - 23 comments

Money, it's a game

I'm going to have an informal trivia night and it's going to involve songs with money. [more inside]
posted by tellurian at 9:37 AM PST - 54 comments

Storing sensor data with video with Linux

I'm looking for reccomendations for Linux PVR software for a security camera application. I want to be able to store a lot (limited only by hard disk space) of high resolution video from a 3 chip DV camera (which will go through a TV tuner card). So far this is rather standard, but I have the (unusual?) requirement of needing to be able to store a lot of metadata from sensors with the video. (more inside!) [more inside]
posted by phrontist at 9:35 AM PST - 3 comments

How can I force my current hosting company to let me transfer my domains to another hosting company?

How can I force my current hosting company to let me transfer my domains to another hosting company? [more inside]
posted by k8t at 9:25 AM PST - 11 comments

How to determine fair market value of a stock?

Seeking calculation or calculator for easier determination of legitimate share price for companies. [more inside]
posted by fox_terrier_guy at 8:58 AM PST - 7 comments

Time to come in from the cold?

Surviving, perhaps thriving, without a refrigerator? [more inside]
posted by mdonley at 8:28 AM PST - 20 comments

tell me what you want

Need some help finding open source project to use as a base. [more inside]
posted by striker at 7:54 AM PST - 1 comment

Abs Workout

Simple, structured abs workout - got one? [more inside]
posted by Miko at 7:46 AM PST - 16 comments

Picture of Hippie protester placing flower in rifle

I'm looking for that famous picture of a Hippie placing a flower in the rifle barrel of a soldier, but my Google-fu has escaped me. Where can I find it? Or is it all a conspiracy . . . Please help!
posted by spakto at 7:39 AM PST - 11 comments

Duotones, shmuotones

Looking for ideas for different vintage photograph treatments. i.e. not just duotones or hand colored. Or any other victorian inspiration you know of. [more inside]
posted by Brainy at 7:32 AM PST - 12 comments

mem'ries that ne'er will fade

How can I backup my USB memory stick automatically? [more inside]
posted by furtive at 7:29 AM PST - 6 comments

Wiki?

How can I convince my employer to use a Wiki? [more inside]
posted by fixedgear at 7:22 AM PST - 11 comments

Has any non-Catholic ever mysteriously died from taking communion?

Has any non-Catholic ever mysteriously died from taking communion? [more inside]
posted by EmuBite at 7:16 AM PST - 32 comments

What's the ultimate (fake) book synopsis?

What faked-up synopsis of my book is most likely to win me kudos and myriad sexual adventures? [more inside]
posted by RokkitNite at 6:51 AM PST - 36 comments

How do I programtically access and modify music metadata entries through iTunes?

Has anyone ever managed to use iTunes and COM to access the iTunes database and modify MP3 meta-data tags? I need to change the genre for every track by a certain artist and since I have a list of over 800 artists, it is not something I can do by hand. [more inside]
posted by mr_silver at 6:40 AM PST - 13 comments

Vintage Clothing Needed, Stat!

I need to find good thrift stores (or just not expensive stores) in Atlanta that sell late fifties to early sixties clothing (vintage or restyled, as long as the restyling isn't too weird). [more inside]
posted by Medieval Maven at 5:51 AM PST - 4 comments

Replacement for email?

Replacement for email? [more inside]
posted by krisjohn at 5:48 AM PST - 13 comments

Protestant/Puritan Work Ethic - Where did it come from?

Is the phrase "Protestant Work Ethic" and "Puritan Work Ethic" the same thing and what is the source of this concept? [more inside]
posted by pettins at 5:39 AM PST - 11 comments

Where to buy men's jeans in San Francisco?

Where is a good place to shop for men's jeans in San Francisco? [more inside]
posted by davidvan at 5:05 AM PST - 8 comments

Smallest Webhosting Requirements Ever.

Where can an honest man find a free place to park his domain for a while? [more inside]
posted by Jimbob at 3:29 AM PST - 12 comments

Firefox lost something. shock

Firefox lost my bookmarks and search engines. I know, I can't get them back, but why can't I put them back? [more inside]
posted by bryak at 2:37 AM PST - 14 comments

What linux distro should I use to replace an old Exchange server?

What Linux distro should i use to replace an old exchange 5.5 sever and just provide pop3/smtp services [more inside]
posted by daveyt at 1:51 AM PST - 10 comments

My keyboard is all screwed up in Outlook.

My keyboard is all screwed up in Outlook. [more inside]
posted by BigBrownBear at 1:48 AM PST - 3 comments

April 6

What is the metal, engineering equivalent of an erector set?

I need to make a relatively small (incorporating 1/4" rods) metal assembly. What is the metal, engineering equivalent of an erector set? [more inside]
posted by sirion at 9:53 PM PST - 13 comments

Research on CBT vs. meds?

Looking for scholarly psychology article comparing cognitive behavioural therapy to medication. Preferably showing CBT to be superior to meds alone. [more inside]
posted by Idiot Mittens at 9:33 PM PST - 9 comments

Searching across blogs for everything during a specific period?

I want to read as many blog posts as possible that were posted during a specific week-or-so period in 2004. What tools/sites can help? [more inside]
posted by staggernation at 9:31 PM PST - 6 comments

What is the name of this plant?

Please identify a plant for me given this description: [more inside]
posted by BuddhaInABucket at 9:20 PM PST - 8 comments

Rap video ID?

MusicVideoFilter: Help me remember a rap video that rejiggered a bunch of horror films. [more inside]
posted by j.s.f. at 8:06 PM PST - 5 comments

Breast cancer: What does it actually mean?

A friend has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I need data. [more inside]
posted by Ritchie at 7:45 PM PST - 10 comments

Lawyers in Seattle

Looking for a good lawyer in Seattle... [more inside]
posted by nomisxid at 7:39 PM PST - 4 comments

No, Virginia, there are no perfect clients.

[FreelanceFilter] I need a lawyer's advice! (or other freelancers) I work as a freelance web/Flash developer, and getting money from clients after the job is done is always a huge pain in the ass... [more inside]
posted by kaseijin at 7:14 PM PST - 14 comments

hacking someone's email: Uncool or illegal?

What are the legal penalties, if any, for guessing a former spouse's email password correctly and using that access to gather information for child/spousal support court case. [more inside]
posted by Jazz Hands at 6:38 PM PST - 22 comments

Any research leads on cognitive effects of desire

I was interested in buddhist or other religious or even philosophical doctrines on the notion that desire enslaves the MIND. Scientific references, too, but my guess is that religion and philosophy have devoted more thought to this area. To clarify, I am interested in the COGNITIVE effects of desire, not moral issues (as in the 7 deadly sins, gluttony, lust, etc.) Any leads greatly appreciated! Thanks a bunch!
posted by adamrobinson at 5:59 PM PST - 11 comments

Portable Office

What features should I look for in a bag to use as a portable office? [more inside]
posted by birchhook at 5:36 PM PST - 9 comments

Califilter: Things to do at night in SanFran and LA next week

I live in Massachusetts and have a quick business trip to California Sunday through Wednesday next week. I will be have free time in San Francisco 6p-10p Sunday and Monday and 4 - 10p in Irvine/LA on Tuesday. What cool stuff can I do that beats "going out to dinner and walking around the tourist area"?
posted by kaytrem at 5:31 PM PST - 11 comments

Sugar cubes are not cubes! Need ones which have square sides in UK

Sugar cubes are NOT cubes!! I need a cuboid with at least 2 equal dimensions... [more inside]
posted by Ampa at 5:27 PM PST - 20 comments

I hate my Tablet PC, save this budding man-machine relationship

What programs have you found that helped you improve productivity working with a Tablet PC? Primarily, what programs are best for entering text when in tablet mode? [more inside]
posted by JeNeSaisQuoi at 5:18 PM PST - 5 comments

How can I stop a bird from playing on my car and leaving its crap all over?

How do I get a bird to stop sitting on my side mirrors and shitting all over my car? [more inside]
posted by mathowie at 4:35 PM PST - 34 comments

Frozen iRiver. (Brrr.)

My iRiver U10 is freeze-happy. [more inside]
posted by mykescipark at 4:33 PM PST - 7 comments

Primer in Hair

How do you get primer our of your hair? [more inside]
posted by delladlux at 4:30 PM PST - 10 comments

At least I know where the big hand is...

If you live or work near a time zone line, how is life different for you and what difficulties have you run into? A more specific sub-question involving cell phones included... [more inside]
posted by tkolstee at 3:43 PM PST - 10 comments

“Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it.”

Complex Excel to Word merge question is the [more inside]
posted by anastasiav at 3:32 PM PST - 10 comments

More private alternatives to del.icio.us

More private alternatives to del.icio.us for social bookmarking within our company? [more inside]
posted by dripdripdrop at 3:27 PM PST - 8 comments

Will an XM antenna work in a Sirius radio?

Will an XM antenna work on a Sirius radio? [more inside]
posted by keep it tight at 3:14 PM PST - 8 comments

Good multi-player games for PS2

Multi-player games for the Playstation2 for smaller children. [more inside]
posted by patrickje at 2:38 PM PST - 19 comments

Where do I buy Chinese takeaway Sweet and Sour Sauce?

Does anyone know where chinese takeaways in the UK get their sweet and sour sauce and "smokey" noodle flavouring? [more inside]
posted by aqueousdan at 2:03 PM PST - 16 comments

online football fandom?

Has anyone on AskMe joined joga.com? Football (Soccer) Fans: Is a social networking site centered on football (and brought to us by corporations) worth the effort to locate an invite? [more inside]
posted by trixie_bee at 1:36 PM PST - 8 comments

Free FTP Access?

I am working with a vendor who needs FTP access to our servers. I can't give that and the ones who can, won't. So what are my options from here? [more inside]
posted by nramsey at 1:22 PM PST - 17 comments

Where do I get a bra that's in-between 2 bra sizes?

Is there some place that sells odd-numbered bra sizes? (37C, for example?) [more inside]
posted by anonymoose at 1:16 PM PST - 11 comments

Is my tapestry ruined?

I purchased a brightly-colored, embroidered tapestry from the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. It is certainly not an antique, but it is hand-made, delicate and somewhat old. My well-intentioned (but perhaps lacking in common sense) roomate threw it into the washing machine and, needless to say, the colors ran. Is there any way I can restore the tapestry to its former state or at least to some approximation of such? Would a dry cleaner be able to help?
posted by anonymous78 at 12:54 PM PST - 4 comments

Reference letters for MBA applications

Regarding reference letters for MBA applications... [more inside]
posted by dobie at 12:53 PM PST - 5 comments

Need help traumatizing a character in a story...

Need help with a neurology problem/research... [more inside]
posted by dobbs at 12:50 PM PST - 7 comments

Fun places for kids in Denmark?

Suggestions for fun places to take kids (ages 6 and 2 1/2) during 2 weeks in Denmark in June/July? Is Legoland Billund worth the drive from Copenhagen? [more inside]
posted by chr1sb0y at 12:48 PM PST - 6 comments

How to avoid getting hosed by Starforce copy protection?

Starforce copy protection: Threat or menace? [more inside]
posted by arto at 12:40 PM PST - 12 comments

Pho Phatigue

Why does eating Pho make me tired? [more inside]
posted by Rubber Soul at 12:35 PM PST - 32 comments

Glucose/thyroid/fatigue connection?

I am wondering if there are any resources that can draw a connection of any kind between low blood sugar and poor thyroid function, and thus fatigue? [more inside]
posted by miss tea at 11:53 AM PST - 8 comments

Suggestions for Photo Management Software Shared Over a Network?

I need to find networked photo management software, similar in function to Picasa or ACDSee, but with the ability to share "tags" between multiple users over a network. The products I've been able to find all allow tagging, but those tags are available only to that user, and my company needs to search the photo tags without each user having tagged each photo individually. [more inside]
posted by XSteveMurphy at 11:52 AM PST - 8 comments

Can I insure my Digital camera against losing it?

having just lost an expensive digital camara, and having had to replace it, is their some type of insurance that covers losing such items? I know renters insurance covers you if you get broken into, but I'm more concerned with losing items in public. If there is something available, what does it cost, is it worth it ?? etc. I live in Austin, Texas.
posted by leftfooter at 11:38 AM PST - 11 comments

What goes good with Amsterdam?

What city should I pair with a trip to Amsterdam? [more inside]
posted by kimdog at 11:31 AM PST - 24 comments

Good/Cheap massage place in Chicago?

Does anyone know where to get an inexpensive (legit, no happy ending needed), but decent, massage in Chicago? Basically, the same question as this, but in Chi.
posted by rbs at 11:28 AM PST - 7 comments

FA Premiership questions

PremiershipFilter: Does the FA Premiership have salary caps on teams? If not, is there a sense of competitive imbalance, whereby fans of like Middlesbrough feel that their team will never be able to compete with the likes of Man United? [more inside]
posted by xmutex at 10:24 AM PST - 27 comments

Saturday Brunch, NYC, Soho, Not too dear?

Saturday Brunch, NYC, Soho, Not too dear? [more inside]
posted by eatdonuts at 10:00 AM PST - 28 comments

unzipping zipper

I have a pair of jeans and the zipper is always coming unzipped. Is there anyway to fix this?
posted by philcliff at 9:55 AM PST - 18 comments

When is flirting inappropriate?

Given that you are in a monogamous relationship, when is flirting outside of that relationship inappropriate? [more inside]
posted by sequential at 9:51 AM PST - 43 comments

Scotland & England filter

We are going to Scotland & England in August. We have some questions for locals. [more inside]
posted by aacheson at 9:50 AM PST - 13 comments

Tax counseling in San Francisco

Tax Attorney or Accountant in San Francisco? I'm trying to get my financial house in order, and I've been bad about getting all my taxes filed a couple of years ago. Anyone have good experiences dealing with this in SF? [more inside]
posted by bitdamaged at 9:50 AM PST - 3 comments

Good Italian bistro music?

My SO is putting on an Italian wine tasting, and has tasked me with finding good music. I am clueless. I have three criteria that need to be met... [more inside]
posted by everichon at 9:03 AM PST - 24 comments

New supervisor needs help!

SupervisorFilter: I recently started working in an office and I supervise 4 people. It's a job where there is a definite year-long cycle, so every day is a learning experience for me. All 4 employees here have been here between 7 and 15 years. They all know what to expect and what to do. How can I effectively supervise them when it seems like sometimes they may be using my inexperience against me? [more inside]
posted by SheIsMighty at 9:01 AM PST - 7 comments

Help me buy what they won't sell me

How do I buy a product from an online store in the UK that doesn’t sell to the US? [more inside]
posted by bove at 9:00 AM PST - 6 comments

Bridesmaid entry song?

What is a good classical bridesmaids entry song? [more inside]
posted by jadanzzy at 8:47 AM PST - 17 comments

Researching the unspoken

Abstract/academic-filter: How do various disciplines quantify unspoken implications or mutual understandings? Lingustics, social sciences, anything! [more inside]
posted by electric_counterpoint at 8:40 AM PST - 10 comments

Intel Mac as a Windows game box?

Is an Intel Mac with Bootcamp and Windows a viable option as a Windows gaming box? [more inside]
posted by nthdegx at 8:25 AM PST - 8 comments

Cheap Massage in NYC

I need an inexpensive, down-to-earth massage in NYC. [more inside]
posted by ottereroticist at 8:22 AM PST - 5 comments

Give DHCP a chance.

I would like to set up DHCP on our factory wide LAN. But I have some serious reservations. I need it to be secure, and I need to have control of who can get a DHCP license. [more inside]
posted by Jonsnews at 7:57 AM PST - 13 comments

Et si l'hiver ne venait plus?

How can I hear this radio show that won a Peabody yesterday? [more inside]
posted by jrb223 at 7:29 AM PST - 5 comments

What's up with the "Midwest Center"?

What's the deal with these Midwest Center folks? [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 7:25 AM PST - 5 comments

how much to tip a carpet installer? Need to know today!

I'm having all the carpet in my (pretty big) house replaced and I've got 6 carpet installers in my house right now. So far they seem to be doing an excellent job in putting in the carpet _and_ they've willingly agreed to move my son's furniture in my daughter's room and vice versa (they're switching rooms) when they put the furniture back. I know I need to tip them and I really should make it a pretty good tip since they're doing extra work, but how much would be a good tip? Because there are 6 of them, even $20 is going to add up to a pretty fair amount of money. But I want to do what's fair, particularly since they're doing a little extra and I don't want to give just $20 if they really are expecting more. So what's fair? $20? $40? More?
posted by katyjack at 7:14 AM PST - 14 comments

Save me from Arial.

How can I use my own fonts in a PowerPoint presentation? [more inside]
posted by docgonzo at 7:07 AM PST - 14 comments

Strange problem with half of my cable TV connections

Some strange problem with my cable TV. I was connecting a new Sylvania DVR/VCR unit in my bedroom. I used to have a Sony DVD/VCR in that same place and the cable reception used to be just fine. First thing I noticed after attaching the new unit is that the signal quality is very poor. But anyway then I come down to living room which has the Comcast's digital set top box connected to the wall outlet. I noticed there was no signal on TV and box was displaying a 'this channel would be available soon' message. Usually that means some kind of bad or no connection. Before I went up to the bedroom everything was running fine. Did plugging in the DVR/VCR unit blow the cable circuit ? [more inside]
posted by flyby22 at 7:00 AM PST - 4 comments

grand jury length

Why is grand jury duty so long? [more inside]
posted by mmm at 6:40 AM PST - 8 comments

Can collection agencies discover my whereabouts through the IRS?

Can collection agencies discover my whereabouts through my tax filings with the IRS?
posted by anonymous at 6:22 AM PST - 6 comments

Atonement

Later today I'm teaching a class on Ian McEwan's Atonement. I'd like to juxtapose the extremely complex kind of atonement depicted in this novel with other, structurally simpler stories of atonement. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by josh at 6:18 AM PST - 7 comments

Oh the benefits to huge manatees!

I often have dreams where i'm floating above the ground... [more inside]
posted by thirteenkiller at 6:12 AM PST - 26 comments

Looking for Kosher Butcher around Silver Spring, MD

Having recently moved to downtown Silver Spring, I am looking for a kosher butcher in the area. I rely mostly on public transportation to get around, but I do have access to a car. +1 for any suggestions relating to kosher restaurants and kosher food markets, as well. Thanks!
posted by seinfeld at 5:36 AM PST - 13 comments

Denver Public Transport Strike & A Lost Foreigner

Denver's public transport is on strike. I'm coming over from overseas this weekend and will need to rely on public transport to get around. Ack! What should I do? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 5:00 AM PST - 16 comments

How HTML met Email

Email to Web? Or, help me play songs on my computer with my cellphone. [more inside]
posted by provolot at 4:47 AM PST - 8 comments

Is Talc ok to eat?

Talc is an ingredient in TUMS? This says the talc is "different", or it's not talc at all that's harmful, depending on how you read it. But people are told to use cornstarch and not baby powder because of inhaling the talc, and women shouldn't use it around their nether regions, as per this contrary article. Does this make sense to anyone? I avoid baby powder, but I don't know what I'd do without my TUMS.
posted by Iamtherealme at 2:47 AM PST - 14 comments

How would you grow an effective barrier of annoying vegetation?

How would you grow an effective barrier of annoying vegetation? [more inside]
posted by pracowity at 2:31 AM PST - 23 comments

Portable Internet Radio

Now that San Francisco is getting city-wide Wi-Fi, I'm starting to look around for something I've always wanted: a portable Internet Radio device. Any recommendations? [more inside]
posted by vacapinta at 2:29 AM PST - 3 comments

Help us deal with a toddler's insane demands

Our two and a half year old is driving everyone crazy. He’s going through a phase of extreme uncooperativeness. [more inside]
posted by Siberian Mist at 2:03 AM PST - 35 comments

Why do they not recommend that concussed people drink alcohol?

Why do they not recommend that concussed people drink alcohol? [more inside]
posted by sjvilla79 at 12:36 AM PST - 9 comments

April 5

Eject the core!

How did I manage to blow up a computer power supply when I tried to connect audio out from a VCR to the line in on the computer soundcard. [more inside]
posted by The Monkey at 10:41 PM PST - 12 comments

Covers of Bizarre Love Triangle

Are there any other covers of the song Bizarre Love Triangle (by New Order) other than the ones by Frente and Stabbing Westward? [more inside]
posted by nakedsushi at 10:41 PM PST - 16 comments

The legend became fact, they printed the legend...but where to find the stories behind the legends?

Watching "Assume The Position, Mr. Wuhl" on HBO made me hungry for more debunking of legends and myths that we often accept as fact and history. My problem is, I'm not sure what to search for in seeking such material. [more inside]
posted by weirdoactor at 10:00 PM PST - 16 comments

Stairs & Calories

Does taking the stairs 2 at a time burn more calories than stepping on all of them? [more inside]
posted by chefscotticus at 9:17 PM PST - 18 comments

Daddy needs a new set of feet!

I need news shoes. My feet are achy, [more inside]
posted by the giant pill at 8:32 PM PST - 14 comments

Identify the argument or fallacy

Is there a name for the argument or fallacy that states, essentially, that "Everyone is subject to the injustice that I have created-- the fact that you disproportionately bear the burden of this injustice is immaterial."
posted by Kwantsar at 8:03 PM PST - 13 comments

How can I prevent my keys from falling out of my pocket?

Key Ring filter: How can I prevent my keys from falling out of my pocket (assuming my pocket is the only place that I can keep them) and how can I prevent individual keys from working their way out of the ring? [more inside]
posted by dino terror at 7:52 PM PST - 16 comments

Knoxville Visit Suggestions

My husband and I will be in Knoxville TN for a weekend and have about 4-5 available hours on Saturday May 6th. Any suggestions of what to do? [more inside]
posted by AmericnJewl at 7:46 PM PST - 8 comments

Does no kids mean no go?

Posting for a friend: Should she break up with her boyfriend because he doesn't want kids? [more inside]
posted by kechi at 7:38 PM PST - 47 comments

Why does my neighbor have so many guests?

What reasonable, legal reason could my new neighbor have for having 30+ visitors (one at a time) over the course of five hours every day? [more inside]
posted by MeetMegan at 7:14 PM PST - 119 comments

Visual Basic 6 Date Comparison by Month

Last Minute Visual Basic 6 Help!!! How do I compare a given date to today's date, based on a number of months? [more inside]
posted by fvox13 at 6:31 PM PST - 4 comments

where do i get alpha testers for my site

What's the best way for me to advertise a new website to get some alpha testers? and a related question inside [more inside]
posted by karen at 5:54 PM PST - 10 comments

Anti-Theft Powerbook

How hard is it to defeat an Open Firmware password on a PowerBook? [more inside]
posted by plaidrabbit at 5:47 PM PST - 14 comments

Flash player with slow motion, frame advance and smooth rewind?

I like to view dance moves, which are increasingly in Flash video format. Is there a Flash player with slow motion, frame advance and continous rewind? [more inside]
posted by mrkohrea at 5:39 PM PST - 4 comments

Looking for the Lost timer.

Is the Lost timer/clock (or anything like it) available for purchase? (Season 2 spoilers inside...) [more inside]
posted by nervestaple at 5:02 PM PST - 9 comments

Re-connect to HDs after XP re-format

In an emergency situation, facing a serious deadline, Windows decides to stop working. Not knowing what else to do, I reformat the harddrive. Crisis averted. Now, how do I re-connect to my second and third harddrives? [more inside]
posted by panoptican at 4:41 PM PST - 7 comments

How to clean cast aluminum grill

Aluminum body grill: cleaning question [more inside]
posted by Neiltupper at 4:33 PM PST - 4 comments

Gift ideas for a co-worker with a lame kid?

I'm looking for small gift suggestions: a co-worker of mine recently learned that her daughter needs a second knee surgery, and she (my co-worker) has to take several weeks off work to care for her daughter, who will be mostly home-bound for a month. Both mother and daughter are depressed and stressed out by the prospect, and I want to get something for them to enjoy when the daughter (who is in her 20s) is recuperating. I'm looking to spend around $25.
posted by Harvey Birdman at 4:28 PM PST - 14 comments

Where to submit creative writing?

Where can I submit my creative writing for possible publication in a magazine, journal, etc.? [more inside]
posted by jne1813 at 4:19 PM PST - 14 comments

I need audio samples on a website - help!

Making song excerpts available on a website: How hard is it to set up? [more inside]
posted by globetrotter30 at 4:09 PM PST - 4 comments

Looking for best 'get me up to speed' resources for Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop & how to take jobs to printers.

Looking for best 'get me up to speed' resources for Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop & how to take jobs to printers. [more inside]
posted by Chuck Cheeze at 4:00 PM PST - 11 comments

AJAX for idiots.

Stupid web development question about updating a database on a mouse click without re-loading the page (AJAX required?) [more inside]
posted by TunnelArmr at 3:54 PM PST - 13 comments

Source of spares for old laptops?

Where can I get hold of spare parts for an old Sony Vaio laptop? [more inside]
posted by altolinguistic at 3:44 PM PST - 4 comments

Writing Photoshop Actions That Request User Input

I'm creating a series of Photoshop Actions to automate processing images for my blogs. Most of it is resizing images and the like, which is easily done in an action. As part of this, I'd like to open a dialog to ask for a filename, then to save the processed image to a specific directory with that filename. Can that be done in an action, or do I need to write a script to do it? [more inside]
posted by baggers at 3:32 PM PST - 3 comments

Law School v. Grad School

I want to acquire a law degree for the best value (in terms of quality and cost). How much will earning a masters degree first enhance my qualification to a prestigious school? The second question I have is how much a masters degree will enhance my qualification for scholarships? There is no question that a masters would make me a better law student and enhance my education; however, I am wondering whether the financial investment in grad school is worth it for what I want to accomplish. [more inside]
posted by j-urb at 3:26 PM PST - 16 comments

How does the WNBA pull in a profit?

How does the WNBA make money and stay in business? [more inside]
posted by sicem07 at 3:11 PM PST - 4 comments

what does "editor-at-large" mean?

So what does "editor-at-large" mean? Curiously I can't find anything at all on Google or any online dictionary.
posted by cillit bang at 2:43 PM PST - 10 comments

Best tool sources?/Help me find an awesome self-adjustable wrench!

Where can I find a self-adjusting nut wrench? And more broadly, what are your favorite places to go for tools? [more inside]
posted by joshuaconner at 2:36 PM PST - 17 comments

So you thought you might like to go to the show...

How do you get people to come to a cd release show? [more inside]
posted by drezdn at 2:32 PM PST - 14 comments

Where can I get Deep Dish Chicago pizza in Los Angeles?

Where can I get Deep Dish Chicago pizza in Los Angeles? And preferably something with tomato sauce, a great regular crust and nothing in any way affiliated with people who'd be crazy enough to put goat cheese on a pizza?
posted by rileyray3000 at 2:29 PM PST - 11 comments

thank-you/gifts for my fellow 65 law school classmates?

I'm just about to finish my first year of law school, which, because it has a set curriculum, was an experience I shared with 65 other students. I'd like to do something to thank them...thoughts? [more inside]
posted by girlpublisher at 2:15 PM PST - 16 comments

Good camcorder for porn?

After finding some local porn models on myspace, I became interested in making my own porno movie. What camcorder should I get? [more inside]
posted by thebbxx at 2:10 PM PST - 20 comments

Spam Text Messages

I'm getting spam text messages to my phone. What can I do? [more inside]
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 2:08 PM PST - 14 comments

Baseball: caught foul tip isn't an out?

Why is a foul tip into a catchers glove not an out, but a pop-up foul that the catcher gets is? Is there a minimum height the ball must reach?
posted by davebug at 1:59 PM PST - 6 comments

Dealing with radon

So I'm selling my house, it's under contract, and the inspector for the buyers has come back with radon test results over the EPA-recommended limit. What to do? [more inside]
posted by beagle at 1:52 PM PST - 7 comments

Small email client

I am looking for a small email client i can use in stead of my webmail. [more inside]
posted by FidelDonson at 1:44 PM PST - 7 comments

Goodbye, Metafilter. Hello, cubicle.

How do I stop surfing the Internet at work so that I don't lose my job? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:43 PM PST - 38 comments

Border crossing classification

Crossing the border for a job interview. Is this work, business, or personal? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:42 PM PST - 13 comments

Training opportunities?

I need suggestions for tech-related training or conferences that I could attend sometime this summer or fall, in the continental US, preferably on the West Coast. [more inside]
posted by cyrusdogstar at 1:38 PM PST - 0 comments

Clarence Thomas good judgement filter:

Should I report my colleague's sexual harassment? I am a male faculty member at a unionized academic institution. A male colleague frequently uses sexual innuendo during department meetings. (Examples: After being assigned a task: "I like to get used" to the more offensive: "I was orgasmic!") But now he's taken to making some comments to others one-on-one. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:36 PM PST - 31 comments

What's the best way to keep a cake from going stale?

What's the best way to keep a cake from going stale? [more inside]
posted by bpt at 1:22 PM PST - 14 comments

clock me over the head

where do i find analog "simple" clocks and/or clock parts? [more inside]
posted by yonation at 1:06 PM PST - 7 comments

Deception

Does anyone have any pointers on formally modelling deception/self-deception? [more inside]
posted by sonofsamiam at 1:00 PM PST - 5 comments

I've lost my introns, can you help me find them?

Calling all biologists - I've amplified a 700 bp region of cDNA for the gene PGI and now am trying to amplify this region using genomic DNA. Way more detail inside... [more inside]
posted by a22lamia at 12:51 PM PST - 25 comments

Finding an auto part

How can I get a replacement hood (with the right color) for my 1995 Honda Accord? [more inside]
posted by hodyoaten at 12:43 PM PST - 9 comments

ebay + canada = fine?

eBay filter: I have an item for sale and was asked whether I accepted bids from Canada. Should I? [more inside]
posted by whatitis at 12:33 PM PST - 16 comments

Oh god. Oh god. It's so gross.

Gross Filter: I remember hearing a couple years ago about a couple incidents involving swimmers and badly maintained swimming pool filters wherein the swimmer would be sitting on the bottom of the pool, on the filter, and the filter cover would give out, resulting in the most horrific situation I can think of. [more inside]
posted by heavenstobetsy at 12:21 PM PST - 25 comments

Packing a suit?

How best to pack a suit? [more inside]
posted by cog_nate at 11:57 AM PST - 14 comments

Should I work out while sick?

I'm feeling a bit run down and have a slight cold -- is it better for me to skip my workout? [more inside]
posted by o2b at 11:45 AM PST - 7 comments

Reading Spotlight Comments without using Get Info.

In Mac OS X, the "Finder/Spotlight Comments" is a handy way for me to store additional information about documents. It would be great to be able to read them without having to "Get Info". In particular, I'd like to either have them show up when hovering over the document in Finder (that is, use them as Help Tags), or have them show up in the Preview pane. [more inside]
posted by math at 11:32 AM PST - 5 comments

Translations of Szymborska's "Autotomy"

Here's a shot in the dark: In Czeslaw Milosz's "The Witness of Poetry" there's a translation of Wislawa Szymborska's "Autotomy" that is different from the Baranczak/Cavanagh translation in her Collected Works that I'm familiar with. The translation is unattributed -- am I then to infer that the translation is Milosz's?
posted by .kobayashi. at 11:22 AM PST - 1 comment

Ad agency of record?

Is there are a free way to find the ad or PR agency of record for companies? Something like the Red Books, but, you know, free?
posted by ChasFile at 11:20 AM PST - 6 comments

Prolific Proposal

What is the coolest / most unique / romantic marriage proposal you have ever heard of? A friend of mine is trying to come up with ideas on how to propose and I would like to tell him a few awesome anecdotes.
posted by jasondigitized at 11:14 AM PST - 30 comments

How would you streamline tracking daily data?

Any Excel or MS based report card generating or tracking tips for a variety of different grading criteria? [more inside]
posted by brent at 11:13 AM PST - 1 comment

Caffeine-free == sketchy?

How do they decaffeinate soda and coffee? [more inside]
posted by cgs at 10:44 AM PST - 19 comments

Gack attack!

How does a cat choose where to gack? [more inside]
posted by GarageWine at 10:33 AM PST - 37 comments

Dirt cheap NY

Dirt cheap accommodation in New York city? [more inside]
posted by Meatbomb at 9:58 AM PST - 11 comments

Stamped Concrete

Any thoughts on, experience with, opinions about Stamped Concrete? [more inside]
posted by HK10036 at 9:46 AM PST - 8 comments

What are some ways to make a temporary international move go smoothly?

I am moving to Okinawa, Japan in seven months. I am looking for logistical tips on how to make a temporary international move go smoothly. [more inside]
posted by jeffmshaw at 9:44 AM PST - 5 comments

So my boyfriend wants to trim his pubes...

So my boyfriend wants to trim his pubes... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:00 AM PST - 11 comments

I'm the lockiest girl in the world

I need to lock my bedroom door [more inside]
posted by pieoverdone at 8:59 AM PST - 17 comments

Berlin Apartments

I am looking to sublet or rent an apartment in Berlin for the summer or possibly longer. Where can I find listings on the net aside from Craigslist? [more inside]
posted by dydecker at 8:21 AM PST - 11 comments

Do inventors pay royalties for fictionally-inspired technology?

If someone were to create an actual working version of fictional technology, would the inventor have to pay royalties to the owner of the original fiction? [more inside]
posted by Servo5678 at 8:01 AM PST - 19 comments

What majors aren't useless?

I recently switched my major from international relations to anthropology because I'm sick of politics and don't want to deal with it anymore, let alone for a career. But wtf can I do with anthropology? I want a job that allows me to travel the world, but becoming a journal-writing academic sounds like the worst thing ever. [more inside]
posted by borkingchikapa at 7:07 AM PST - 17 comments

Prescription diving masks?

I wear glasses and I need a prescription dive mask for snorkeling, but I don't know anything about them. Anyone have tips or recommendations?
posted by smackfu at 6:54 AM PST - 11 comments

Birthday cake alternatives for a one-year old?

Looking for unique dessert celebration ideas for our one-year-old's birthday. What are some good alternatives to the 'smear cake everywhere' tradition?
posted by Otis at 6:41 AM PST - 15 comments

Mars needs Opentype collections

Can anyone recommend a reasonably priced (around $300) Open Type Font collection that offers a good variety of non standard fonts for ad creation and page layout? [more inside]
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 6:37 AM PST - 6 comments

Italian Klansmen???

I caught The Godfather: Part III on cable last night, and I was wondering about something. There's a street parade in (I guess) New York's Little Italy in which, along with the priests and altar boys, there's these four guys in hooded robes carrying a nearly life-size figure of the Madonna and Child. The robes and hoods these four porters are wearing look exactly like Ku Klux Klan outfits, only without the sigil that's typically seen on them -- just plain white. What's the significance of these four people wearing hoods -- why would they be covered up in this fashion? Is it just coincidence that their pointy-topped hoods make them look like KKK regalia, or did the Klan copy a Roman Catholic fashion statement?
posted by pax digita at 4:28 AM PST - 12 comments

The limits of logic

I've read that Gödel's incompleteness theorem shows that there are definite limits to what logic, mathematics and by extension computers can do. This seems to be unknown among humanists such as myself. What are the things logic cannot do? Earlier AskMe questions about Gödel here and here (this answer is especially good).
posted by Termite at 12:11 AM PST - 50 comments

April 4

Windows keyboard repeat-rate gremlin

My Windows 2000 system has started spontaneously reducing the key-repeat rate and the rate at which windows scroll, slowing each to a crawl. Other weirdness accompanies this. [more inside]
posted by Tubes at 11:15 PM PST - 9 comments

Framing Prints

Where should I go to get some art framed nicely and affordably in Vancouver, Canada?
posted by stray at 10:31 PM PST - 7 comments

Checklist/survey to determine whether we need to build additional web sites?

Does every non-profit campaign or project need a web site? How can I determine or prioritize the need for a web site? [more inside]
posted by potsmokinghippieoverlord at 10:30 PM PST - 5 comments

Work = Stressed, No work = depressed. Lame!

I get depressed when I don't have any work to do, but get totally stressed with the workload I usually have. What gives? [more inside]
posted by sdis at 10:07 PM PST - 18 comments

How to ameliorate chronic peripheral neuropathy?

Solutions for Chronic Peripheral Neuropathy? [more inside]
posted by exlotuseater at 9:51 PM PST - 2 comments

need a program that monitors employee logins, preferably freeware

I have a client who has a Windows 2000 server and a LAN consisting of a whopping 3 other computers. He would like a program that lets him know when employees have logged onto the network...preferably by email notification. He doesn't care for anything as machine-centric or intrusive as Spectorsoft, but would like a small utility that does it's small job well for a small cost. All suggestions are appreciated.
posted by titans13 at 9:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Eclectus!

Parrot Filter: After a long study, I have decided that the Eclectus seems like the best parrot breed for me. I was wondering if any one has any experience with this breed of parrot. [more inside]
posted by Infernarl at 9:04 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me find a website

A couple years back, I found a website which allowed one to create a three-strip cartoon, choosing some of the characters from the cartoon Red Meat. You could input the dialogue for the characters and the site would generate your cartoon. Can anyone help me find it? Thanks.
posted by lometogo at 8:55 PM PST - 8 comments

Is the problem my PSU or something else on my computer?

Is the problem my PSU or something else on my computer? [more inside]
posted by who else at 8:13 PM PST - 12 comments

Keeping a kid on-task

My teenage son is way too involved with IM and a MUD, to the exclusion of his homework, and it's turning into a real problem. He needs the Internet for his homework, so we don't want to cut him off, just restrict some of the services he's over-using. But our DSL modem won't allow us to implement the restrictions we need. [more inside]
posted by lhauser at 8:12 PM PST - 40 comments

For a Better Cube

Where can i find a high quality Rubik's cube with colored panels instead of stickers? [more inside]
posted by sophist at 8:00 PM PST - 8 comments

Air Freshener That Won't Kick My Ass?

A car air freshener that won't kick my ass? [more inside]
posted by Ignatius J. Reilly at 7:52 PM PST - 18 comments

How do I record the video feed from a web camera?

Help me find free (or inexpensive) software to record the stream from a web cam (like this). I don't have access to the camera on my network, so the stream is only available to me via the web.
posted by ajr at 7:40 PM PST - 3 comments

I Want to be Different, Just Like Everyone Else

How is diversity (particularly in hiring) not racism/sexism/ageism/ismism? [more inside]
posted by phrits at 7:28 PM PST - 54 comments

Working out 40 minutes straight or in four 10 minute segments?

I use an elliptical trainer for 40 minutes per day. Is there a quantifiable benefit to doing the 40 minutes without a break? [more inside]
posted by visual mechanic at 7:26 PM PST - 10 comments

I can't believe ib stung be ob by lip

Are flying, stinging insects more likely to gravitate towards certain people than others? [more inside]
posted by kryptondog at 7:00 PM PST - 21 comments

Bring out..the COMFY CHAIR!!!

What is a really comfy chair, for like reading and watching movies in? Preferably a big cradling chair where I can tuck my legs to the side. My folks have one but it's tacky and smelly.
posted by parallax7d at 6:54 PM PST - 24 comments

Baa baa black sheep, have you any environmentally friendly wool?

I'm looking for a custom textile manufacturer, either in the United States or Canada. [more inside]
posted by discokitty at 6:49 PM PST - 3 comments

Installing the Eve3 Framework

I'm trying to install the Eve3 framework on a Powerbook G4 in order to run the Magic Bullet Suite 2.1 plug-in for Adobe After Effects Pro 6.5. I have the downloaded framework file, but when I copy it to the Frameworks folder, the UNIX Eve3 executable file changes into a document, rendering the thing non-functional. [more inside]
posted by Toolshed at 5:56 PM PST - 4 comments

baby dummy question

BabyFilter: Are there any theoretical or actual risks or issues associated with using a(n orthodontically correct) baby's dummy (pacifier)?
posted by wilful at 5:45 PM PST - 15 comments

Alternatives to Toastmasters?

Are there any alternatives to Toastmasters for public speaking practice clubs? I've been to a few local meetings to see what they're like and the style is just too regimented for me.
posted by yoga at 5:41 PM PST - 6 comments

Damn you elusive Fairy RPG

Pen and paper RPG identification filter. I am trying to find a RPG I download in the waning days of the BBS's that was a tongue and cheek (but still pretty fully fleshed out) RPG based on fairys. [more inside]
posted by JonnyRotten at 4:49 PM PST - 4 comments

The Greatest Generation of Weblogs?

Any Weblogs out there for or by the World War II generation? I know not everyone of that age group is computer savvy, but my mom is, and since there seem to be Weblogs for every other subgroup, I'd love to find her a few good links. If not, she may have to start her own...
posted by GaelFC at 4:09 PM PST - 13 comments

How do I reprogram a key on my Mac?

How do I reprogram the "end" key on my PowerBook? [more inside]
posted by The corpse in the library at 3:06 PM PST - 6 comments

Just how effective is chiropractor back cracking?

If I already crack my own back and neck, will chiropractor cracking do anything more for me? [more inside]
posted by kookoobirdz at 3:05 PM PST - 15 comments

O, to replace my windows before summer comes!

Does anyone have recommendations for a company to replace windows in Washington, D.C.? I've got a few original, uninsulated, leaded-glass windows that need to go bye-bye. [more inside]
posted by delfuego at 2:42 PM PST - 6 comments

The Write Stuff

Does anyone remember an AOL newsletter named "The Write Stuff?" Anyone have an archive of it? [more inside]
posted by daninnj at 2:30 PM PST - 2 comments

pub/restaurant to hold a party at in Vegas?

I'm looking for a venue to hold an event for 50 or fewer people in Las Vegas. It will be a social event, basically people standing, talking, having a few drinks and eating. A sit-down restaurant is not quite it - not social enough. In the past, in other cities, we've rented out upscale beer joints for this event. Can anyone recommend such a place in Vegas? Close to the main strip and Mandalay Bay is preferred.
posted by scarabic at 2:29 PM PST - 8 comments

Too sexy for my... Yeah, whatever.

How does one wear an iPod (or any mp3 player) without looking like a tool? [more inside]
posted by converge at 2:21 PM PST - 37 comments

Seasickness and stillness illness.

Are there any known and proven preventions and/or cures for seasickness and stillness illness? [more inside]
posted by NoMich at 2:16 PM PST - 12 comments

Why do you enjoy shopping?

Why do you enjoy shopping? [more inside]
posted by Thorzdad at 1:31 PM PST - 54 comments

Streaming video: Blades or Clone Army?

Anyone have experience deciding between a blade center and regular rack servers? [more inside]
posted by SpecialK at 1:29 PM PST - 8 comments

A new "Nigerian" scam?

Work at home as a Processing Assistant for a financial Company. Has anyone heard of this before? Seems like a scam. [more inside]
posted by clubfoote at 1:22 PM PST - 8 comments

Name that Phish Song

Name that Song: Early nineties Phish? [more inside]
posted by grateful at 1:02 PM PST - 4 comments

What can an officer do to you if you do not provide identification

Hypothetical Jail Filter: What happens if you refuse to give identification to an officer after commiting a petty misdemeanor? [more inside]
posted by stratastar at 12:55 PM PST - 22 comments

How do I get around these bullshit parking tickets?

I need to renew my car tabs, but my ex-girlfriend stacked up $800+ in parking tickets on my car, unbeknownst to me. There's no WAY she's going to pay for them (she's got her own problems that lead to no money, and I really don't wanna talk to her anyhow). What to do? [more inside]
posted by mattoly at 12:52 PM PST - 16 comments

Adminstrative tools for Exchange to view mailboxes and retain deleted messages?

What are some good mail archiver solutions for Exchange 2003? The goal: view mail across mailboxes, retain deleted messages. [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 12:47 PM PST - 1 comment

Software to "Make it so"

How are these pictures created? [more inside]
posted by Smarson at 12:23 PM PST - 21 comments

Ideas for Differentiating a Social Networking Application

So, the Achilles' heel of Social Networking is the 'What Now' Issue. Once you've listed all your friends publicly, which doesn't solve any problems you had in the first place, you're pretty much left hanging. Ideas about getting around this problem in building a social networking app? [more inside]
posted by Firas at 12:19 PM PST - 13 comments

"God Doesn't Exist" on TV

Is it true by broadcast and cable standards or regulations that you cannot say "God does not exist" on TV? [more inside]
posted by c at 11:58 AM PST - 13 comments

Cleaning a stainless steel cooktop.

I'm, seeking way to clean a stainless steel electric cooktop. I have a 20 year-old Jenn-Air and the cooktop has become discolored in places by greasy smoke drawn to the downdraft. I have tried Dawn Degreaser, which works very well on fresh grease, but not this, and also a Scunci Steamer which was useless. Dawn + Scunci = nada. (Except some interesting fumes.) [more inside]
posted by KevinKarl at 11:54 AM PST - 13 comments

Anyone remember a sitcom named Whoops?

Does anyone remember a sitcom named Whoops? [more inside]
posted by jon_kill at 11:52 AM PST - 12 comments

Tim Hortons luddism ?

Why does one of the biggest coffee franchise across Canada will only accept cash as a payment method ? I understand that banks charge a fee per transaction but I would assume profits from sales could justify such a commodity but Tim Hortons seem the think otherwise. maybe someone could explain why such a decision is still viable in 2006.
posted by selfsck at 11:47 AM PST - 32 comments

Reward mechanism.

I've ceased smoking cigarettes. Problem - I have developed severe motivation problems. Suggestions for solutions? [more inside]
posted by PurplePorpoise at 11:44 AM PST - 16 comments

Where to stay in Nashville?

I'll be making an unexpected trip to Nashville shortly, and am wondering about places to stay on a very tight budget, preferably near the Southern Hills Medical Center. Plus, I don't drive.
posted by Ohdemah at 11:37 AM PST - 2 comments

Help me figure out how to make a pretty report.

Access DB Filter: Help me figure out how to make a pretty report. [more inside]
posted by nulledge at 11:36 AM PST - 3 comments

Whatever calculus makes us stronger.

Are there any calculus-question-of-the-day sites out there?
posted by nomad at 11:05 AM PST - 5 comments

Simple, online HTML editor?

Is there such thing as an application I can install on a client's web server that will allow him to edit certain HTML documents and save them? [more inside]
posted by Robot Johnny at 11:03 AM PST - 10 comments

Let me get fit and save my cat from dog ravages

I want to reclaim my space and make a cat closet. [more inside]
posted by stormygrey at 10:59 AM PST - 10 comments

San Diego Neighborhoods

Short Term (6+ months) stay in San Diego: Looking for recommendations for interesting + relatively affordable neighborhoods/towns in/near SD with possible rail/transit access to Downtown (for work). [more inside]
posted by shoepal at 10:28 AM PST - 19 comments

polish deli in maryland?

anyone know a good polish deli in the washington metro area, preferably maryland side, where i can get fruit pierogi, easter butter, and either golabki or a decent kielbasa? [more inside]
posted by crush-onastick at 10:04 AM PST - 5 comments

broken Asus motherboard

Help me identify a tiny componant on my Asus motherboard. [more inside]
posted by bradn at 10:02 AM PST - 15 comments

Burn, baby burn, ambient inferno!

Help me burn a properly "mixed" cd with transitions, separate tracks, etc on a Windows XP machine. [more inside]
posted by beaucoupkevin at 9:42 AM PST - 10 comments

Do blocked ads still generate revenue for the site owner?

I am using the UserContent.css file found here to block most ad images from showing in Firefox 1.5. Some sites I visit (and want to support) get their only revenue from ads. Does this method of blocking ads cut into their revenue? [more inside]
posted by toomanyplugs at 9:37 AM PST - 6 comments

Guitar or ukulele or what?

Guitar filter: Looks like a 3/4 sized acoustic guitar, popular in the 1930's, tuned EADGBE like a normal guitar (I think) but one octave higher. Produces a nice "crystal" sound. The one I saw looked like it had a Martin logo on it, but can't see anything like this on the Martin website.... [more inside]
posted by oxala at 9:26 AM PST - 12 comments

How to use BitTorrent without getting caught

What are the chances of actually getting caught using a P2P file sharing program such as BitTorrent to download pirated stuff? Is there more likelihood of getting into hot water depending on what you are downloading (i.e. movies,TV shows, music..)? Can anyone suggest a method of using BitTorrent that will avoid these problems?
posted by curiocity at 9:18 AM PST - 22 comments

What are my options for Tablet PCs?

What are my options for Tablet PCs? [more inside]
posted by benjh at 8:55 AM PST - 13 comments

Weekend Away

1st Wedding Anniversary help. Have read all of the other threads on idea's for 1st anniversary gifts and have decided on booking a weekend away. Now the bit I need your help on. Where to go for a romantic weekend in the UK (not London, both of us work there). Complication is, my wife will be 7 months pregnant, so bonus points for nice relaxing things to do whilst we're away. Weekend in question is last weekend in April. [more inside]
posted by lloyder at 8:47 AM PST - 10 comments

How can my buddy solemnize a marriage?

MarriageFilter: Is it possible for an average citizen in Manitoba, Canada to legally perform/solemnize a marriage ceremony? [more inside]
posted by stungeye at 8:44 AM PST - 4 comments

Who makes the vest that Mario Batali always wears?

On his shows on the Food Network, Mario Batali is usually wearing a lightly quilted vest when he's not in the kitchen. Who makes it and where can I find it? (examples follow) [more inside]
posted by cherryghost at 8:18 AM PST - 10 comments

Is there a site that will give you daily chunks of knowledge -- particularly science and history?

A coworker is interested in broadening her general knowledge with an emphasis in History and Science. So, she's looking for a site she can set to be her home page where she can get bite sized chunks of interesting information (like 5 to 15 minutes at a time). Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by willnot at 8:11 AM PST - 11 comments

Health Insurance Drug Test?

Am I likely to be required to take a drug test to get health insurance? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:07 AM PST - 21 comments

How do I find a good web 2.0 development company?

I am looking for suggestions as to small, good, and fast Web 2.0 website development companies for a near-term project... [more inside]
posted by blahblahblah at 7:59 AM PST - 7 comments

The mysterious mystery and the red herring Googles

What is this young adult fiction I read in the mid-1980s about some papers read in a public square giving clues (and red herrings) eventually leading to some sort of inheritance? [more inside]
posted by Tuwa at 7:58 AM PST - 13 comments

What if my new loft isn't finished on time?

I'm about to sign a lease for a new loft that's currently under construction. They have set a move in date for the new place: August 1st. My current end-of-lease and move-out date is July 31st - what if the new place isn't finished? [more inside]
posted by nitsuj at 7:37 AM PST - 14 comments

East Coast vs West Coast stereotypes

Can you give me some stereotypes on East Coast vs West Coast differences? [more inside]
posted by qvantamon at 7:29 AM PST - 85 comments

I'd like to become an IT consultant

I am giving serious consideration to setting up as an IT consultant. I'm well proficient in Windows and Mac, Office suites; applications and web technology. In addition, I enjoy talking and fixing computers. I've done some such already, but on a small scale and for people I already knew. My question is: what kind of things should an IT consultant be able to do, what are common requests, what should I charge and how (per job/per hour?). Are there any potential pitfalls? Is it a good idea? Thanks a bunch.
posted by dance at 7:27 AM PST - 13 comments

Handycam got broke. Need fix.

Where can I get a replacement part for my Sony Handycam? [more inside]
posted by popcassady at 6:25 AM PST - 3 comments

Smoking repairs

Tobacco related product damage to white leather sofa- suggestions for repair/hiding damage? More inside [more inside]
posted by Gratishades at 5:37 AM PST - 4 comments

Can I ditch Itunes, please?

Is there a batch process that take a bunch of itunes-ripped stuff and convert it to mp3, and is there a reliable linux itunes replacement? And what are the gotchas I ought to be looking out for here? [more inside]
posted by handee at 4:37 AM PST - 13 comments

HTML tricky layout filter

HTML tricky layout filter: The page I'm developing is doing some unsuspected things: what good advanced HTML forums do you use? [more inside]
posted by jwhittlestone at 4:30 AM PST - 7 comments

Downloading messages from Nokia phone to Mac via Bluetooth

Can I download/backup messages (SMS/MMS) from my Nokia 6680 to my Mac via Bluetooth? [more inside]
posted by chrismear at 4:04 AM PST - 4 comments

.Net 1.1 and 2.0 don't play well together!

How can I use a .Net 1.1 assembly in my .Net 2.0 application? [more inside]
posted by antifuse at 2:59 AM PST - 3 comments

How to provide on-line purchasing

I've successfully developed my own website using HTML and CSS. Now I need to add simple facilities for customers to order and pay on-line. What are some good on-line tutorial sites to help me? [more inside]
posted by TiredStarling at 12:49 AM PST - 12 comments

Karaoke In Vancouver after The Arches

Karaoke box in Downtown Vancouver? [more inside]
posted by Extopalopaketle at 12:04 AM PST - 1 comment

April 3

It's all about the benjamins (and ulysseses), baby.

No bills larger than...? [more inside]
posted by oaf at 10:38 PM PST - 99 comments

DSCF

Why are so many image files named DSCF####.jpg? Is there some specific tool which does that? I've always wondered what it was. (And what does DSCF stand for?)
posted by Steven C. Den Beste at 10:27 PM PST - 31 comments

Which writer smoked away half his novel?

What literary critic is said to have used the only couple of his great work as rolling paper for his cigarettes? [more inside]
posted by munyeca at 9:19 PM PST - 7 comments

Smash the phone?

What are cellphones good for? I just got my first one and I certainly love it. The phone part and everything, but what more can I do to it? [more inside]
posted by Napierzaza at 9:03 PM PST - 16 comments

More Podrunner please!

Does anyone else do anything like Podrunner? [more inside]
posted by jopreacher at 8:35 PM PST - 8 comments

There is a cookie recipe cabal, I tell you.

Can anyone actually make six dozen cookies based on the cookie recipe? I can, at best, get three dozen. Unless I use a half teaspoon measure and make cookies sized for Lilliputian midgets, there's no way I get six dozen. Is it me? Is it the lying liars that make these recipes? Betty Crocker, et al, constantly put expectations of dozens of cookies that always come to naught (naught being 24 - 30 cookies). Chipits, j'accuse!
posted by Salmonberry at 8:22 PM PST - 16 comments

Online Pharmacies

How do I go about finding a reputable online pharmacy? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:46 PM PST - 15 comments

How does the Christian Bible explain or account for fossil evidence?

How does the Christian Bible explain or account for fossil evidence of cavemen and dinosaurs? Was Adam a Neanderthal? Were there dinosaurs on Noah's Ark?
posted by robbie01 at 7:21 PM PST - 39 comments

Musical spectrum analyzer

I'm looking for a musical spectrum analyzer program for Windows which can help me figure out notes and chords from WAV or MP3 samples. [more inside]
posted by chef_boyardee at 7:17 PM PST - 17 comments

I think he thinks the baby will know.....

Frequency of sex as relates to men and women, with pregnancy added as a twist. There is, of course.... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:08 PM PST - 33 comments

Help me find karaoke in MD

Help me find Karaoke in MD. [more inside]
posted by underwater at 6:44 PM PST - 3 comments

Where can I find the most comprehensive attacks on RIAA/DRM/Music Industry

What are the most frank, telling criticisms of issues like RIAA/DRM/Music Industry that you've read before? [more inside]
posted by Lockeownzj00 at 6:42 PM PST - 13 comments

Help me calculate a hidden value in my data

I've spent the past day or so trying to figure out how to calculate a hidden value in my data. It varies linearly with time, or closely enough that we can make that assumption within any given dataset. Where this goes beyond a simple linear regression is that each datapoint is known to be above or below the hidden value. The data is collected in a C# program and processed in Excel; an Excel function would be the ideal solution. [more inside]
posted by bjrubble at 6:18 PM PST - 14 comments

Author of an animation?

Does anyone knows the author of this little animation ? [more inside]
posted by zouhair at 6:06 PM PST - 8 comments

Diversity training exercises

Can anyone suggest some diversity management exercises or activities? [more inside]
posted by Scottk at 5:52 PM PST - 4 comments

Whats the trick for shorecast/surfcast fishing?

Mefite Fisher people: I don't know anything about fishing and want to do some surfcasting with my kids. [more inside]
posted by snsranch at 5:36 PM PST - 2 comments

Size of computer game lands

What's bigger, Oblivion or San Andreas? [more inside]
posted by Lotto at 5:26 PM PST - 15 comments

The URL of Submittingham

What is a good web site UI method to allow users to submit a URL? [more inside]
posted by nonmyopicdave at 5:23 PM PST - 3 comments

staring into space

How do I become an ass-kicking high achiever? [more inside]
posted by BruceL at 5:03 PM PST - 30 comments

Excel formula for calculating age

Our lab uses Excel to record vital data about the participants in our studies. We usually record a date of birth and the date a child was run in separate cells. However we've had no luck creating a formulatthat calculates the person's age (in months, or in years;months) based on those two other cells. As a result of having to do it by hand, errors often occur. Ideally, I'd like to customize how rounding happens, but at this point I'll take what I can get.
posted by drmarcj at 5:03 PM PST - 12 comments

Hold the door!

Social-convention filter: Why do I feel obliged to hold the door open for women but they do not for me? [more inside]
posted by Slimemonster at 5:02 PM PST - 39 comments

Help out a milk virgin, would ya?

How does the drive-thru dairy work?? [more inside]
posted by clh at 4:53 PM PST - 2 comments

Can I Trust These Folks?

Who can tell me anything about a company called Newstex? Are they legit? [more inside]
posted by mmahaffie at 4:49 PM PST - 3 comments

Time committment for CFA exam preparation.

Registered to take the CFA exam June 2. Assuming my past studying efforts count for naught, can I start tomorrow and pass? I have a reasonable grounding in the subject area, and am not working. What kind of commitment would it take? Official Schweiser prep course and CFA Institute time estimates (~250 hrs) are noted.
posted by Phred182 at 4:19 PM PST - 7 comments

10th anniversary gift?

Our next door neighbors (who we really like a lot) are celebrating their tenth wedding anniversary. The traditional gift for no. 10 is aluminum/tin. What would be a fun/useful/romantic/cool gift for us to get them based on this theme/material? Budget = around $50.
posted by ericbop at 3:40 PM PST - 16 comments

Help me choose a new ISP.

Is there a smart, well-oiled ISP I could subscribe to for DSL where my needs won't get lost in the corporate shuffle? [more inside]
posted by Lillitatiana at 3:40 PM PST - 16 comments

German jokes at a bi-lingual wedding

How do I make a multi-lingual best man's speech at a German wedding? [more inside]
posted by ajp at 3:22 PM PST - 6 comments

Why are condos usually just 2-3 levels?

I notice that in the US condos are rarely more than 3 levels (except in a very few places like NYC). In many countries that I have visited, condos are usually 5 levels up to high rise buildings. If condos are built to reduce the land cost per unit, wouldn’t it make more sense to build additional levels? Or other costs such as those invested in parking structures will push the cost per unit further up? If so, is 2-3 level the ideal cost for developers and buyers? I guess my question can apply to apartment complex too. Your thoughts will be greatly appreciated.
posted by dy at 3:13 PM PST - 17 comments

Nonfunctional linksys POS garbage router DIE DIE DIE

I have a Linksys WRT54GC router, and I can't get it to work on my iMac. [more inside]
posted by atom128 at 3:09 PM PST - 17 comments

Give me TeX or give me Death!

In an effort to increase productivity, I've been trying to escape my all-too-familiar laptop with all its enticing shortcuts and bookmarks and start using my school's sexy G5 workstations. How can I install teTeX or some other LaTeX package on these babies without root? [more inside]
posted by onalark at 3:04 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me swim successfully!

What is the proper etiquette for swimming laps at a gym? [more inside]
posted by pdb at 2:50 PM PST - 12 comments

Help me find the ultimate e-mail client

Is there a Windows e-mail client for power users that I am missing? I recently tried Thunderbird, Outlook, The Bat, Pocomail and Opera. [more inside]
posted by davar at 2:44 PM PST - 12 comments

What are the Big Ideas for combating global warming?

What are the Big Ideas for combating global warming? Who is proposing them? Which do you find most plausible? [more inside]
posted by Galvatron at 2:37 PM PST - 15 comments

Boxdom

Boxes. I'm looking for a place to source about 100 boxes (wood/plastic) for flowers etc at a wedding. Long and thin, looking around 4 x 3 x 12 inches? Location Texas. Any suggestions of cheap flower wholesalers would be great too.
posted by Mossy at 2:35 PM PST - 5 comments

Copernic Search Issue

I am using Copernic's Desktop search, and a mighty beast it is. Problem: it is not returning all results. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by Holly at 1:52 PM PST - 5 comments

How to keep IE iframe from flashing white?

Is there a way to keep IE from flashing to white when navigating within an iFrame/frame?
posted by Edible Energy at 1:42 PM PST - 7 comments

I'm 19 and hold down a decent job, what should I do with my excess money?

I'm 19 and hold down a decent job, what should I do with my excess money? [more inside]
posted by aznhalf at 1:04 PM PST - 42 comments

Baseball Score Ticker

I would like to find an application that will give me a little sports (actually just MLB) ticket, or score updates so I can see what is happening in afternoon MLB games without having to check the web. [more inside]
posted by Deep Dish at 12:51 PM PST - 4 comments

Is there an easy way to set up a Motorola SLVR or RAZR so that MMS/WAP functions properly in other countries (i.e., using a different SIM card)?

Is there an easy way to set up a Motorola SLVR or RAZR so that MMS/WAP functions properly in other countries (i.e., using a different SIM card)? [more inside]
posted by JudgeBork at 12:45 PM PST - 3 comments

Mystery Chinese dim sum sauce

What Chinese black sauce is this? [more inside]
posted by scazza at 12:42 PM PST - 23 comments

What to do in Winnipeg?

I'm going to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada in a few weeks, and am looking for some ideas of things to do... [more inside]
posted by gwenzel at 12:27 PM PST - 19 comments

Help me find my missing files in XP

Windows XP Profile problems - Are my files gone? [more inside]
posted by davey_darling at 12:23 PM PST - 4 comments

Environmetally friendly coal?

Are there any environmentally friendly ways to use coal as an energy source? Bonus points if these methods are economically plausible. If none exist currently, is there any interesting research being done?
posted by insomnus at 12:22 PM PST - 11 comments

Scientific explaination for UFO sightings?

Scientific explanation for UFO sightings? [more inside]
posted by Sallysings at 12:14 PM PST - 13 comments

Making a customized restore disk?

I want to backup a Windows partition to a DVD, so that I can make my own restore disc. Is this possible? [more inside]
posted by northernsoul at 12:12 PM PST - 3 comments

Emergency alert bracelet advice

Recommendations for emergency alert bracelets (USA)? [more inside]
posted by tippiedog at 11:45 AM PST - 4 comments

Doctor, will I ever adhere again?

Naught but a month-and-a-half after purchase, near-daily usage of my self-adhering athletic tape has left it unable to adhere to itself. I've been wrapping it around my feet and shins. Is there any way to get its grip back or do I have to purchase more?
posted by anonymous at 11:35 AM PST - 12 comments

How to remove a mini-CD from my Superdrive?

Mini-CDs be damned! How do I remove one of those "mini-CDs" from a Powerbook? [more inside]
posted by GilloD at 11:25 AM PST - 25 comments

Am I responsibile for unpermitted decks built by previous owners?

I bought my house in the Los Angeles hills about two years ago. A week ago, I was approached, out of nowhere, by a City Inspector regarding two decks off the back of my house. The decks were built by the previous owners and were very likely unpermitted - which is not uncommon in the hills where I live. The larger of the two decks did have a permit applied for by the previous owner, but they seemingly didn't follow through on the permit and built the deck anyhow. The deck was very professionally done - complete with casons and concrete poured - but may not be up to code. My question is: as the current owner, am I responsible for a deck built by the previous owner that may be unpermitted? Can this inspector, who didn't come on my property but merely espied it from the street below, demand that we allow them to inspect the decks - built a few years ago? I have heard conflicting opinions from people - some who've said it's my responsibility now, some who've said I should tell the inspector I don't know anything about the permits but the decks "came with the house".
posted by bocksheesh at 11:00 AM PST - 16 comments

How to make this time (losing weight) work?

Ever since college I have been working to lose a fairly significant amount of weight (> 75 lbs). I'm looking for suggestions as to how I can make *this* time be the *last* time I ever have to try. [more inside]
posted by catfood at 11:00 AM PST - 27 comments

Funky Feeling Fingertip

Why does my fingertip feel so weird? [more inside]
posted by jessica at 10:51 AM PST - 7 comments

"Ceiling" Material for Underside of Deck

I have a deck with a patio underneath. I have created a guttering system between the deck joists that keeps the patio dry, but it isn't much to look at. I would like to install a "ceiling" attached to the underside of the joists. One major challenge is that the joists are 24" centers, so sagging is a major concern. Ideally, this material would: -Provide a reasonably finished look -Be available in white -Not add tremendous weight to the overall structure -Be water resistant in case my guttering springs a leak -Be in the neighborhood of $1-3/sq foot. My only idea so far is the soffit treatment they use in vinyl siding applications. Any other ideas are most welcome!
posted by jbradley at 10:45 AM PST - 8 comments

Where to stay between Cortez and Escalante?

Where to stay the night that's roughly halfway between Cortez, Colorado and Escalante, UT? [more inside]
posted by Jase at 10:45 AM PST - 9 comments

Very likely the dumbest Excel question ever asked

MS Excel: How do I convert a number representing seconds into minutes:seconds? [more inside]
posted by contessa at 10:28 AM PST - 13 comments

supercute mystery minicar

Can anyone identify this supercute car? All I know is that the photo was taken in Tokyo in 2002.
posted by dmo at 9:12 AM PST - 7 comments

Open water swimming in Atlanta area?

My husband, brother and brother-in-law are doing a triathlon in August. Where can they practice swimming in open water in Atlanta and/or Athens, GA? [more inside]
posted by mdiskin at 9:09 AM PST - 6 comments

automatic gmail archiving

GmailFilter: I am having a hard time keeping my gmail inbox down to manageable numbers. I want to do something very specific. Is it possible to set gmail to automatically archive all read messages? That way my inbox stays clear and I don't have to remember to constantly click the archive button after reading a message.
posted by billtron at 8:27 AM PST - 5 comments

Help an Australian escape for good!

An Australian friend of mine is in the UK with her boyfriend. Her boyfriend has a full visa, whereas she is only allowed here if she's in a relationship with him. Trouble is, she wants to leave him, and there's still 2 years to go before she can get a full independent visa. If she splits with him, she has to move back to Australia after 2 1/2 years here, and start all over again. What to do? Is there any way she can stay if she splits with him?
posted by wibbler at 8:14 AM PST - 8 comments

im seriously serious about being serious.... seriously.

There is a homestar runner cartoon that my wife and I were joking about this weekend... he is applying for a job or something and says "if you take a look at my resume" and pronounces it like resuming a download and not like a job resumé. Anyone know which cartoon this was in? [more inside]
posted by skrike at 8:11 AM PST - 7 comments

Boaters, divers, sailors, lend me your (inner) ears

I'm exceedingly susceptible to seasickness. I'm an avid scuba diver, and I'm now learning how to sail. Both activities put me in smallish boats, and if there's any chop, it's only a matter of time before I am leaning over the side. I don't want my inner ears to keep me from doing things that I enjoy. Please share your tips on keeping your inner ears happy and your lunch down. [more inside]
posted by ambrosia at 8:02 AM PST - 18 comments

Convert FAT32 to HFS+ nondestructively?

Is it possible to convert a FAT32 disk to HFS+ in-place (i.e., with all the data intact)? [more inside]
posted by dmd at 7:45 AM PST - 8 comments

Can I hear you now?

Need a better, louder wired headset for my cell phone. [more inside]
posted by ZenMasterThis at 7:27 AM PST - 8 comments

How do you cope with incompetent team members?

How do you cope with incompetent team members? [more inside]
posted by koenie at 7:17 AM PST - 14 comments

Where should I learn to drive?

DrivingFilter: I want to learn to drive - should I take a short trip somewhere cheap and do an intensive course? [more inside]
posted by spiff101 at 7:02 AM PST - 6 comments

Do metal splinters come out on their own?

Got a splinter (actually a metal whisker) in the sole of my foot. Can't get a hold of it without some significant flesh excavation. Will it get expelled eventually, or do I need medical attention? [more inside]
posted by de void at 6:16 AM PST - 24 comments

Good Boston photography store

I'm moving to Boston in the next couple of months. Is there a good, big photography store in or around the city? Not just the local Ritz to get my film developed; I'm thinking somewhere with the technical breadth of B&H in New York. I'd like to be able to get 120 film, used lenses, developing chemicals, etc. Any suggestions? (I realize I can order from B&H online, but finding somewhere local would be preferable.)
posted by Plutor at 6:13 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me see the light!

Recommendations for a standing reading light please... [more inside]
posted by ClanvidHorse at 5:59 AM PST - 2 comments

Coptis detoxifying formula in NYC?

Where in NYC can I buy coptis detoxifying formula? What are some other alternative treatments for colitis?
posted by spaghetti at 5:44 AM PST - 6 comments

what laws are they breaking?

What specific laws are illegal immigrants breaking while being here illegally? What laws are broken if they hop the border, and what laws are broken if they over-stay a visa? Are violating these laws crimes, or civil infractions? Are there any state laws on immigration violations? [more inside]
posted by Paris Hilton at 2:41 AM PST - 23 comments

Ju Ming Beijing Show

Online coverage Ju Ming show in Beijing? [more inside]
posted by priorpark17 at 12:39 AM PST - 5 comments

He's a womanizer, but an expert at throwing knives

If you had to amass a large collection of mp3s of mainstream rap club bangers in a short amount of time - how would you do it? [more inside]
posted by dihutenosa at 12:30 AM PST - 29 comments

we don't need no education

Help me take down my school board! [more inside]
posted by weaponsgradecarp at 12:02 AM PST - 20 comments

April 2

Visiting the Adirondacks

The significant other and I will be spending a couple of days in the Adirondacks in late May and are looking for suggestions as to places to visit. [more inside]
posted by mrbula at 11:49 PM PST - 5 comments

Lock picking

How do I pick a deadbolt designed for a skeleton key? [more inside]
posted by Apoch at 11:48 PM PST - 12 comments

Bed and breakfast in the Perigord

We're spending a weekend in the Perigord Noir, and could use some guidance. [more inside]
posted by I Love Tacos at 11:26 PM PST - 3 comments

The Science of Instant Pudding

I just made instant pudding with lo-fat almond milk (it's what I had on hand) and it didn't work- it never thickened into pudding. Why didn't it work? What is it about dairy milk that makes instant pudding work properly? Would it work with soy milk?
posted by hyperfascinated at 11:17 PM PST - 11 comments

"But What Are They Playing?"

I have a week to make a set of three concert programs for an upcoming music festival at my university (I am a music student). LaTeX? InDesign? Word? The catch: I am a novice (albeit an eager one) at all but the latter program. [more inside]
posted by rossination at 10:41 PM PST - 12 comments

What can I do with a Psychology major?

What kind of careers are available for someone with a psychology major and a business minor? [more inside]
posted by aquavit at 10:34 PM PST - 16 comments

legal confidentiality

If someone writes a letter to their clergy, can someone deposition the contents of that letter from either the sender or the receiver? Should the sender ask the receiver to destroy it?
posted by mecran01 at 10:14 PM PST - 7 comments

How to clean glue off my blue suede shoes

How can I clean glue residue off my polyester shoes without wrecking them? Difficulty: theres also suede leather on the sheos. [more inside]
posted by GleepGlop at 10:01 PM PST - 7 comments

peeps, peeps, peeps

How long before peeps go stale? [more inside]
posted by mustcatchmooseandsquirrel at 9:56 PM PST - 14 comments

Deleting Mac browsers

I want to (sometimes) delete all browsers on my Mac. But sometimes, I want them back. Help me. [more inside]
posted by terceiro at 9:38 PM PST - 15 comments

What kind and color of curtains should I buy?

Adventures in home decorating: what kind and color of curtains should I buy? [more inside]
posted by acridrabbit at 9:19 PM PST - 3 comments

I'm Inheriting $100,000.00 - Now What??

I am Inheriting $100,000.00. I recently learned I have a CD with my name on it as the sole "POD" (Payable On Death) beneficiary. I have a basic understanding of personal finance and investing. I am married, 39 years old with one child. I'm really a little lost with this. I've been told a hundred grand is not enough to tweak the interest of a financial adviser. Do MeFites have any ideas on how to invest $100,000.00? Should it be Stocks? CDs? Mutual Funds? I would welcome any and all advice - including a sample portfolio if you so desire. Thank you!
posted by Gerard Sorme at 9:05 PM PST - 39 comments

Should I just get a screensaver?

Is it cruel to keep fish in an aquarium? [more inside]
posted by backOfYourMind at 9:03 PM PST - 24 comments

Estate Planning for the clueless.

What are the advantages and problems involved with buying my father in law's home? [more inside]
posted by sperare at 8:09 PM PST - 3 comments

Birds in Trouble

How can I best help some sick birds in a pet shop? [more inside]
posted by lilboo at 7:48 PM PST - 5 comments

Obscure Chess Terminology

I'm trying to recall a phrase, probably french in origin, that refers to the character of a specific period in a chess game when both sides have developed their pieces, but are loathe to attack. [more inside]
posted by Manjusri at 7:43 PM PST - 9 comments

Selling furniture in France....

Selling-Furniture-in-France: Any suggestions for websites to post to to sell furniture in France (specifically in Lyon)? Craiglist, for instance, seems to have a rather small following in this town. Any other thoughts/secrets to selling stuff in France are appreciated.... [more inside]
posted by rumbles at 7:21 PM PST - 3 comments

My atTiny26 is ignoring everything I do.

I'm trying to program an atmel atTiny26 using an STK500 and AVRStudio, but I seem to be unable to read or write to the chip: even the signature reads as FF FF FF. It's a brand new chip, and I've checked the wiring a few times (but could still be wrong). [more inside]
posted by jacalata at 6:56 PM PST - 6 comments

How to do massage therapy out of state license

I am looking into returning to New York from Texas after 25 years. Have visited a couple of times and would be interested in the following information: It may be difficult to get New York licensing for Massage Therapy (long story, nothing illegal) Does anyone have experience with unlicensed massage therapy in New York? [more inside]
posted by bellaja at 6:05 PM PST - 0 comments

My car is wet. On the inside wet.

So I left my Z3's top down the other night, and the next morning the interior was soaked. I've toweled everything down and have been driving around with the heat on full blast, but some areas have still not dried and I don't want no mildewy car.
posted by icetaco at 5:43 PM PST - 14 comments

How can I let customers make online reservations?

How can I allow visitors to a website to make an online reservation for a specific block of time? I'm putting together a site for someone who offers gondola cruises, and to simplify their life I'd like to be able to do what airlines do: allow visitors to book a half-hour or hour-long reservation and pay online, so that time slot is taken and no follow-up phone calls are necessary. How do the airlines (and similar businesses) do it, and is it possible for us? [more inside]
posted by cacahuete at 5:20 PM PST - 9 comments

eps resources on the web

Online repositories of EPS graphics/charts/diagrams/maps of any type... above and beyond the standard "clip art." The more elaborate, complicated, and random, the better... [more inside]
posted by cadastral at 4:07 PM PST - 10 comments

Photograph Reproduction Methods

For many years I beat my self up because my photographs did not approach the quality that I saw in magazines. This stopped when I was assigned to repair and maintain an offset printing press. I saw the offset being a four color (five if you factor the brilliance of the paper) mechanical process while my photographs were being done in a single or three color chemical process. The printer told me that images that were to be offset rather that darkroom printed had to be slightly overexposed. When a chemically processed photograph was placed beside its' offset printed twin, they showed two very different images of an identical subject. Is a magazine photograph a true photograph or is it really something else? Can a magazine illustration accurately portray what a photograph from a negative looks like? Does this question exist with digital photography? Please discount duotone and tritone B&W printing. I have been trying to wrap my head around this for years and the question still troubles me.
posted by Raybun at 3:39 PM PST - 12 comments

Earthlink trueVoice VoIP, anyone?

Anyone used Earthlink's trueVoice VoIP service? They called with an offer today. I'm suspicious of VoIP, but I'm tired of paying $53 per month for DSL plus $100 for phones plus long distance, etc. They're offering $69 for 8mbps DSL plus phone line and unlimited local and US/Canada LD, $14 for additional line, and no extra taxes or charges, (they say). My worst fear is that it's usable but rinky-dink like Skype.
posted by QuietDesperation at 3:39 PM PST - 6 comments

Is my iPod dead?

Is my iPod's hard drive dead? [more inside]
posted by rhapsodie at 3:02 PM PST - 12 comments

Net hygiene lecture

What would you say to computer users if you could give a lecture about a basic net safety/computer use?
posted by srboisvert at 2:41 PM PST - 37 comments

Calculus Re-Invented?

I recall reading that years after Newton and Leibniz, a school teacher slogged from the steppes to the big city with his independent invention of calculus. Apocryphal? Name, place, source? Yeah, I know about the quarrel between Newton & Leibniz, and Indian & Japanese calculus. I think this poor guy was Russian.
posted by gregoreo at 2:39 PM PST - 7 comments

mp3 tag editor

Does anyone know of a mp3 tag editor which cab include a http reference and all the other usual stuff for XP? or LInux? Thx
posted by bright77blue at 2:36 PM PST - 4 comments

A couple of shots so I can have the shots.

Is it wrong that I use alcohol to get through medical and dental appointments? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:30 PM PST - 34 comments

CoolOem.com - too cheap to be true?

cooloem.com. Adobe Creative Suite Pro for $149... too good to be true? [more inside]
posted by derbs at 2:05 PM PST - 16 comments

When life gives you lemons . . .

Are there reputable projections for global warming's impact on the inland United States? [more inside]
posted by danny boy at 2:04 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me help my father.

I have to support my Dad with his new computer, and I can't do that just by phone or by driving over there every time he has a problem. Is Apple Desktop Remote a viable solution to help with this? [more inside]
posted by mikel at 1:31 PM PST - 14 comments

Where can I find jobs in the Caribbean online?

I'm moving to the Caribbean within half a year and I'm having a hard time finding the best place online to look for jobs. I'm don't know where in the Caribbean I'll be moving yet. My background is in graphic and web design, IT and technical writing.
posted by brokekid at 12:12 PM PST - 4 comments

Flash masking effects

Flash masking effects: I'm trying to duplicate the flash slideshow photo transition at http://www.247consult.com/ (minus the menu). I've found a file on istockphoto that's close, but very difficult for me to customize to my own photo dimensions. I've yet to find a decent tutorial on masks much less one that creates the nifty "box" effect. Furthermore, I don't know what this type of mask is generally referred to....Ideas?
posted by masymas at 11:51 AM PST - 5 comments

Home Office Productivity

How can I increase my home office productivity? [more inside]
posted by Xurando at 11:36 AM PST - 7 comments

No desktop after failed Mac software update

Help me solve my iBook/OS X mini-disaster. No desktop after failed software update. [more inside]
posted by hwestiii at 11:28 AM PST - 4 comments

Ouch, my ailing back...

Somewhere to hang out in Manhattan with sofas or very soft chairs (today)? [more inside]
posted by bingo at 10:26 AM PST - 11 comments

Signs, signs, everywhere a sign...

POSTED / NO TRESPASSING - Has this always been the norm? When did it become popular for virtually *everyone* to do this to their land? How serious are people, in your experience? Also, is there anywhere where they don't do this (as much)? [more inside]
posted by zhivota at 10:10 AM PST - 42 comments

Pack it tight.

What's a person to do with 25 cubic feet of packing peanuts? [more inside]
posted by cloeburner at 9:21 AM PST - 19 comments

Why A

Why do the letters of the alphabet occur in the particular order that they do? [more inside]
posted by rongorongo at 9:11 AM PST - 38 comments

Reputable clock repair in Atlanta, GA

Anyone care to ecommend a good clock repair shop in or around Atlanta? We've inherited an old (~1920) Seth Thomas clock that we like, but it won't run for more than an hour or two. [more inside]
posted by donpardo at 9:08 AM PST - 5 comments

Help me work from home on my Mac!

Using work apps at home under OS X. How do I make an image of my work hard drive on an external Firewire hard drive, bring it home, boot up my Mac from it, and use the apps to do print production work? [more inside]
posted by rleamon at 8:53 AM PST - 2 comments

Catholic mass etiquette for non-Catholics?

I'm attending a Catholic funeral in a couple of days. I'm not Catholic. I know that I shouldn't take communion or recite the Nicene Creed, but what about the rest of the service? Do I stand and kneel when everybody else does, or do I stay seated? What's the proper etiquette for the whole affair?
posted by waldo at 8:52 AM PST - 42 comments

Where to have my oil paintings printed?

We are beginning a small business and need recommendations for a commercial to reproduce limited copies of original works of art. Credibility in product and dealing is more important than cost. We will also need business cards, posters, post cards, polo shirts, and tee-shirts down the line. Our preference is the Portland, Oregon area, Seattle works too. We can work with a UPS/FEDEX set up if communications are great. Thanks, this is a key piece to our inevitable success!
posted by KneeDeep at 8:31 AM PST - 3 comments

Why the same serial number, Autodesk?

Since the dawn of recorded time, you can use a certain easy to remember serial number¹to install any Autodesk product. This number is widely known and used by the "try before you buy" crowd². Why would this be so? Any conjectures on why Autodesk hasn't plugged this hole? ¹I won't post the actual #, lets say it starts with a multiple of 100 and then has a bunch of digits in sequence. ²Or so my friends tell me.
posted by skree at 8:03 AM PST - 10 comments

Can someone fly internationally with a bench warrant?

I wish to take a business trip to Japan next week and I wish to take my new girlfriend. She tells me shes afraid to go because she has a bench warrant out for her. if I take her to the airport will they check this and arrest her? [more inside]
posted by geengi at 7:46 AM PST - 25 comments

Any suggestions for a TiVo like back end that will play nice with my Xbox 360 or modded Xbox frontend?

Any good suggestions on a Media Center OS for my main tower? WMCE would be my optimal choice (I won an Xbox 360 from Mt. Dew, and I wanna use it's full functionality). However, I also have a modded xbox to use as a frontend. Oh, and by media center, what I really mean is TiVo like setup. Any other functionality is gravy. [more inside]
posted by TrueVox at 7:00 AM PST - 4 comments

Mobile phone subscriptions as revenge

RevengeFilter: My friends and I are receiving threatening phone calls from a neighbour. How can I subscribe him to a few text message alert services, considering I know his number and I am in the UK? [more inside]
posted by Acey at 6:23 AM PST - 15 comments

Hidden messages in songs

How did kids in the sixties and seventies know that playing their Beatles songs backwards told them that Paul was dead, or that Black Sabbath wanted them to kill themselves? [more inside]
posted by twine42 at 6:22 AM PST - 20 comments

Blow Up

How can I stop Adobe Photoshop CS2 from making 5 meg files into 32 meg files everytime i open them ? [more inside]
posted by sgt.serenity at 5:29 AM PST - 15 comments

Why is optical digital audio locked at full on a Mac?

What prevents the volume control working on a Mac when the optical digital audio output is being used? [more inside]
posted by bruceyeah at 4:37 AM PST - 10 comments

Yellow scale in toilet pan

Why am I getting a an unpleasant buildup of scale on my toilet and how can I stop it? [more inside]
posted by lunkfish at 3:10 AM PST - 10 comments

Playgroups in Dublin

We are moving to Dublin with our eight-month old baby and I'm finding it difficult to find information on playgroups, nursery rhyme groups etc. Does anyone know of any? Generally, what sort of social activites are there for new Mums in the city?
posted by Mrs.Doyle at 12:48 AM PST - 2 comments

2 Month Rental Car in NYC?

So we need to rent a car for 2 months this summer, and most car rental agencies are quoting us numbers in excess of $2 or 3K. What Would The Green Do? [more inside]
posted by yellowcandy at 12:43 AM PST - 10 comments

London CD shops specializing in rare 1960s pop/rock?

London CD shops specializing in rare 1960s pop/rock? [more inside]
posted by adrian_h at 12:40 AM PST - 10 comments

Why doesn't Apple want my money?

Why can't I buy music from itunes using a bank account? [more inside]
posted by MadamM at 12:10 AM PST - 15 comments

April 1

What is goatse?

What is goatse? [more inside]
posted by BitterOldPunk at 11:02 PM PST - 28 comments

Mac DVI and monitor

How do I reset the resolution on a large plasma monitor connected to a Mac Mini via DVI? [more inside]
posted by forrest at 10:39 PM PST - 7 comments

what bluetooth gps

What is Best Bluetooth GPS unit? [more inside]
posted by curiousleo at 8:29 PM PST - 4 comments

In fly fishing, what is the difference between backing and fly line?

In fly fishing, what is the difference between backing and fly line? Is backing a necessity? [more inside]
posted by Paul KC at 7:54 PM PST - 8 comments

"No Moonlighting" clause advice needed...

How do I keep from falling afoul of a "no moonlighting without permission" clause in my employee handbook? [more inside]
posted by deadmessenger at 7:42 PM PST - 15 comments

short story submission -- no reply in 2x the stated time, is it acceptable to submit to another publication?

This is for the authors and/or editors of mefi. I submitted a story to a publication that claims a 5 week turn around. That was just over 9 weeks ago. They also ask that authors not inquire about submissions. Am I obligated to wait any longer before submitting to another magazine or can I assume the rejection was lost in the mail and submit elsewhere?
posted by Grod at 6:40 PM PST - 10 comments

Does Gravett Island actually exist?

In Star Trek: First Contact, when Picard initiates the Enterprise auto-destruct sequence, he orders his crew to meet on Gravett Island, which is apparently an uninhabited island somewhere in the Pacific Ocean. My question is; does this island actually exist? [more inside]
posted by Effigy2000 at 6:38 PM PST - 8 comments

Historical WHOIS lookup?

Looking for a free historical WHOIS domain lookup? [more inside]
posted by superfem at 6:30 PM PST - 3 comments

Movie setting search?

Are there any websites that allow you to search for movies set in different eras? [more inside]
posted by damnjezebel at 5:58 PM PST - 10 comments

Where to stay in Amsterdam?

Information on decent hotels in Amsterdam (a smallish B&B-type would be ideal), reasonably close to the city centre, with high-speed access (and preferably non-smoking)? [more inside]
posted by jokeefe at 5:44 PM PST - 4 comments

How do I mail ice cream?

How do I mail ice cream from one of the 48 continental states to another? I'm unclear on either the logistics, best packaging/cooling technique, or any regulations. [more inside]
posted by NucleophilicAttack at 3:15 PM PST - 9 comments

Birthday present chord help

I'd like to record a version of this song on Garageband for my girlfriend's birthday, but I cannot figure out the chords, and I can't find them anywhere online. Can anyone please help? [more inside]
posted by interrobang at 1:40 PM PST - 11 comments

Another fine scrape.

I have been scouring the web for a way to get easily-available local-area movie schedules via RSS. Yahoo, Google, and IMDB all present perfectly decent HTML of this information, and there is one My Yahoo to RSS service; sadly, it's ad hoc and frequently fails to set the localization cookie. What am I missing? This should be a revenue oppotunity for the studios and theaters - where is the sweet creamy RSS I crave?
posted by mwhybark at 1:37 PM PST - 6 comments

How to copy folders. Am I really this stupid?

I need to move many files in different subfolders to one folder, thousands of images to be precise. [more inside]
posted by fondle at 1:30 PM PST - 7 comments

Do I need a boxspring?

If I have a good mattress and a frame that supports it, do I really need a boxspring? [more inside]
posted by kenoshakid at 12:32 PM PST - 21 comments

Let's talk about swordfighting in movies.

What are the most realistic swordfighting movies? Also, let's analyze the swordfighting in popular movies. [more inside]
posted by agropyron at 12:19 PM PST - 78 comments

Inexpensive banjo that still sounds good?

What's the least amount of money you can spend and still get a decent banjo? [more inside]
posted by defenestration at 12:10 PM PST - 5 comments

How do I write a thesis?

I find out last night that I have 18 months to complete (read: start AND finish) my M.A. thesis in Media Studies. What do I write about and how do I do it? [more inside]
posted by delosic at 12:03 PM PST - 10 comments

External storage or network storage for streaming audio at home?

I'm using a Squeezebox to stream music from my 'puter (running XP) and my wife's (running OS X) to my amplifier via my wifi connection. It's time to get me some external storage so we can combine libraries, so I'm looking for either a plain ol' external drive OR a networked storage drive. Question is: can I get away with an external drive or do I need networked storage to make this work? I've read through similar archived questions but haven't quite gotten the clarity I so desperately need. More inside.... [more inside]
posted by alexfw at 11:58 AM PST - 9 comments

After 120 Minutes

During the first few years of MTV's late Sunday night show '120 minutes' (1986-2003) it was followed by a show of experimental videos. Usually these would be devoted to some theme. The show lasted about a half an hour in length and was, I believe, an English product. Does anyone know what this show was called and anything about its history, current availability, and or producers?
posted by filchyboy at 11:51 AM PST - 19 comments

OS X, dual monitors: Game in fullscreen, secondary display untouched?

Is there any way, on an Intel iMac with two displays, to make apps like World of Warcraft or Unreal Tournament leave the secondary display alone? [more inside]
posted by mph at 11:25 AM PST - 8 comments

LaLa for books?

Has anyone had good experience with book swapping sites? I've got lots of books to trade, and rather than sell them, I'd like to trade them for other books I want. [more inside]
posted by dpx.mfx at 11:24 AM PST - 4 comments

Clean eyelashes?

How do clean the base of your eyelashes?
posted by fenriq at 11:21 AM PST - 9 comments

Improve my bar graph

How can I better present my information than a bar graph with both very tall and very small bars? [more inside]
posted by event at 11:16 AM PST - 12 comments

Crystal Anniversary Gifts

My wife and I are approaching our fifteenth anniversary, which, by tradition, is the crystal anniversary. We don't need stemware, and we don't do new age healing. Do you have any suggestions for gifts?
posted by barjo at 10:15 AM PST - 27 comments

Cross platform games for girls

FamilyEntertainmentFilter: I have three pc's, two run windows (one dual-boots XP and Blag linux) and the third is an old PII that runs Fedora. I also have three daughters who all like being on the computer at the same time. [more inside]
posted by rinkjustice at 10:11 AM PST - 3 comments

How to find undiscovered island?

In this day and age, are there any chances of finding a previously undiscovered island? Even if it is really very small? If so, where would my best chances be if I wanted to sail around and take a look?
posted by aletheia at 9:41 AM PST - 16 comments

How to route audio from a Mac's built-in mic over a network?

Is it possible to route audio from a Mac's built-in mic (or other audio source) over a network to another machine in mostly-realtime? If so, how? [more inside]
posted by namespan at 9:29 AM PST - 4 comments

What catches are inherent in a salvage-title vehicle in California?

I'm looking at used pickup trucks in California. Some of the listings on craigslist are described as having salvage titles. What precisely does this mean? Would a service like Carfax tell me why the vehicle has a salvage title? If this isn't something to be avoided at all costs, what should I ask a mechanic to look for in checking out the truck? [more inside]
posted by mhespenheide at 9:11 AM PST - 10 comments

When is 60 days 60 days?

I get conflicting reports from people on how 60-days notice works in the Ontario "Tenant Protection Act". [more inside]
posted by cardboard at 8:54 AM PST - 4 comments

Why do I black out so easily?

I black out easily after drinking, and this hasn't always been the case. [more inside]
posted by Sticherbeast at 8:34 AM PST - 20 comments

How to get archive footage from ABC?

How do I obtain archive footage from "Wide World of Sports"? [more inside]
posted by starvingartist at 8:30 AM PST - 2 comments

Where should we chill in early June?

MiniVacaFilter: Help us find a place to chill for a few days in early June. [more inside]
posted by shallowcenter at 8:20 AM PST - 3 comments

Responding to a friend's HIV diagnosis

What is the best way to respond to an acquaintance who reveals he has been recently diagnosed with HIV? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:05 AM PST - 17 comments

how to find work at a hostel?

I'm graduating from college this summer and have the travel bug. I'd love to work at a hostel somewhere wild and interesting, like Prague or Amsterdam. How does one even go about getting a job there? And any advice from anyone who's had the experience?
posted by Lisa S at 6:41 AM PST - 4 comments

Is there really an advantage to gold dental fillings?

Is there really an advantage to gold dental fillings? [more inside]
posted by Joey Michaels at 3:14 AM PST - 9 comments

What is the name of this documentary?

Discovery filter: I once watched a documentary on the discovery channel in which a troop of monkeys would steal puppies from their mothers and raise them with the troop. It was kind of a symbiotic relationship where the dogs would help guard the troop and in turn get food. What was this documentary called?
posted by azuma at 2:49 AM PST - 3 comments

Good place for a long walk

Where should I take a walk? [more inside]
posted by tkolar at 12:49 AM PST - 23 comments