Wired has this story about Maher "Mike" Hawash a former Intel programmer who is being held by the DOJ for suspected terrorism. Anyone familiar with the Kevin Mitnick saga will not be surprised that he hasn't been charged and has been locked away in solitary. (from the article) "For nearly two weeks, he has been held as a so-called "material witness" in solitary confinement in a federal lockup in Sheridan, Oregon. The designation allows authorities to hold him indefinitely without charging him with a crime."

I called in today to check the balance on a credit card to see if I could afford a tank of gas to get home tonight and I was caught off gaurd when I was routed to a human being. I realize that I must of made a mistake and entered my number worng or something. but what was more interesting was my reaction. I was not just surprized to hear another person on the other end I was a little disappointed, and I have to say that through the whole conversation I was wondering if this was some new AI based voice activated IVR. I was dissapointed because I am accustomed to dealing with machines and When I have to actually talk to a human or something that sounds human I am at a loss. I wonder if any one else has this issue. or if it is just me. Whats next? a booth at the drive though bank that has a person in it? I don't know if I can handle this type of interpersonal contact on a regular basis. :)

I am continually saddend by the actions of the country and indeed the world. I fear the government. Even though I never do anything interesting. Oh well, I guess I'll have to make sure that I have some coffee ready when they come for me. :)