The new barber

A popular Des Moines barber shop had a new robotic barber installed. A fellow came in for a haircut. As the robot began to cut his hair it asked him, "What's your IQ?"

The man replied, "130."

So the robot proceeded to make conversation about physics, astronomy, investments, insurance, and so on. The man listened intently and thought, "This is really cool."

Later, another gent came in for a haircut and the robot asked him as it began the haircut, "What's your IQ?"

The man responded, "100."

So the robot started talking about football, baseball, and so on. The man thought to himself, "Wow, this is really cool."

Later on, a third guy came in to the barber shop. As with the others, the robot barber asked him, "What's your IQ?"

The man replied, "70."

The robot then said, "So, I understand you Democrats are really excited about John Kerry!"

Aurora magnificus

This is an oldie-but-goodie — a picture of the spectacular aurora resulting from an X14-class solar flare on April 15, 2001. Click on the picture for a larger version.

This photo comes from the excellent site Astronomy Picture of the Day, which should be on your bookmarks or favorites if it isn't already...

Quote for the day

A ship is always referred to as 'she' because it costs so much to keep one in paint and powder.

   Admiral Chester Nimitz