[hewlett packard] patricia dunn fighting for her corporate life

Patricia Dunn, chairwoman of Hewlett-Packard Co, is saying, "This is not a job I asked for or a job that I particularly wanted." That’s as well for her because she’s on the way out. This is the third piece I’ve run on the lady and the situation steadily worsens, rather than redeems itself. Why? It's the Tricky Dicky Syndrome all over again. For those who could care, don’t you feel just a little sympathy for a beleagured woman who got it wrong, even if she has been back-stabbing in a big way? This is her side of it.

[americas] largest earthquake in the gulf of mexico in 30 years

Salient facts: The largest earthquake to strike the eastern Gulf of Mexico in the last 30 years sent shock waves from Louisiana to southwest Florida Sunday, but did little more than rattle residents. The epicentre is an unusual location for earthquake activity, but scientists recorded a 5.2 there on Feb. 10. The earthquake did not have any effect on oil operations in the Gulf of Mexico, according to the American Petroleum Institute. Have you noticed a large increase in seismic activity in the last few years or am I imagining it? More here.

[far-east] china wants e. u. to allow arms sales

Was there ever a more chilling headline than the above? Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao has urged the European Union to lift its ban on arms sales imposed after Tiananmen Square and the reason he gives is that China has made significant progress in protecting the human rights of Chinese people. Really? China has suddenly become a dove? France is in favour, but others in the 25-nation EU have failed to reach agreement. More here.

[spoiler] answers to usa quiz

As promised earlier today, answers to the quiz on the USA. Click on sidebar photo [right] for the actual quiz.

[looking back] pelham grenville wodehouse, 1881 - 1975

P.G. Wodehouse needs little introduction. Those who already know will be familiar with most of this. Those who don’t are in for a treat. "I believe there are two ways of writing novels. One is mine, making a sort of musical comedy, without the music and ignoring real life altogether; the other is going right deep down into life and not caring a damn.... " - Pelham Grenville Wodehouse

[in brief] thought for the day

If at first you don't succeed, try, try, again. Then quit - no use being a damned fool about things.