Category: Sci/Tech

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Death Valley’s moving rocks finally caught in the act

If you’ve any interest in natural science, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the mysterious moving rocks on Racetrack playa in Death Valley, Calif. Scientists have been wondering for years how rocks scattered on the playa manage to move, as evidenced by the tracks they leave in the dried mud. Those theories that involved … Continue reading Death Valley’s moving rocks finally caught in the act

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I have a mountain

For lack of a better word, it’s called a “game.” But it’s less than that. More like an animated painting. But more than that. “Mountain.” That’s the name. That’s all there is to it. It’s from David O’Reilly, if that name means anything to you. It meant nothing to me. Other reviewers seem to think he’s … Continue reading I have a mountain

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When smart quotes aren’t

It’s a term that begs to be used: apostrophe catastrophe. And it has become so cliché that I won’t use it here. There are already dozens of articles and at least one blog titled “Apostrophe Catastrophe.” Most of the writers describe the misuse of apostrophes and cite signs saying “banana’s” or “bracelet’s ring’s watch’s” or menu headings like “Extra’s.” … Continue reading When smart quotes aren’t