How do we solve a problem like El Niño?

What are the steps we need to take in order to get ready for something that just a few months ago we never thought would come our way? In September 2009, we had more rain than we could handle. Yet, today, our rice fields and fishponds are drying up.

Today, it is quite hard to believe that before last year ended, some of our dams had to release then-unwanted (but desperately needed today) water, adding to the murderous raging floods.

It is quite ironic that our courts are currently hearing lawsuits arising from these unfortunate incidents of water being released by dams.

Much Ado About iPad

My grandfather, a man of few words and of a great number of remarkable deeds, used to tell me one should not promise more than he could deliver. This was one of those golden nuggets of wisdom my lolo so unselfishly bequeathed to his grandchildren.

This lesson again came to mind after seeing Apple failed to deliver on pre-launch hype with the iPad. I think the iPad, derisively dubbed by some critics as nothing but an overblown iPod Touch, is one pretty and capable gadget.

The problem is the huge shoes (created by media’s obsession with the device, and fueled by Apple’s actions and announcements) it is forced to fill.

As it is, the iPad has been receiving equal doses of admiration and ridicule.

However, I will not be surprised if the iPad becomes another marketing success for Apple. After all, it only needs a few tweaks and reconfigurations, such as support for Flash, true multitasking, USB connectivity, and a front-facing Webcam.

Oh, and one thing more, a new name, perhaps.

Printing Without Ink

This almost sounds sacrilegious. Imagine, a printer that prints without ink. That would be like, for Catholics, celebrating the Holy Mass without the mass wine.

But it is true, the PlanOn Printstik PS905ME prints using a built-in thermal technology. It produces prints that are supposed to last for seven years.

Measuring 2 x 2 x 11 inches and weighing 1.5 pounds, the printer comes with a rechargeable battery and Bluetooth connectivity. The unit is quite user friendly, although print quality is not as good as those of laser printers.

Hackers Love iPad

Nope, online criminals are not rooting for the iPad’s features and design. They do for its popularity.

Internet security experts have sounded off the alarm, advising Internet users to be on guard when browsing for online information about the iPad, Apple’s latest device. As with other news-worthy developments, such as death of celebrities or natural calamities, online interest increases.

Along with this, however, is the increase in number of Web sites rigged with malware that lure Internet users with bogus information.

So if you are searching for information about the iPad, take the necessary steps to protect yourself from those online criminals.

That’s all for the meantime, folks. Join me again next time as we keep on watching IT.