When I was at the HP cupertino site at Data Terminals DTD as a Co-op intern from MIT from 1978-1980 they joked about the ridiculous plant they were putting up in Boise to make printers.
Well, they're still doing printers at Boise, but I can't think of anything that was in Cupertino that's still in business - terminals, technical and business minicomputers. I was wondering if that site was even still operating. Spoke too soon. The Boise site is also reducing its footprint as buildings are being emptied.
http://www.mercurynews.com/bay-area-news/ci_15527935?nclick_check=1
HP to close Cupertino campus
By Brandon Bailey
Posted: 07/15/2010 07:59:52 PM PDT
Computer giant Hewlett-Packard said Thursday that it plans to close its longtime campus in Cupertino, while transferring several thousand workers to its Palo Alto headquarters over the next two years.
The announcement is a blow to the city of Cupertino, said Mayor Kris Wang, who added that the city gets tax revenue from HP's operations in her city.
The 100-acre campus has been home to some of HP's personal computer division as well as some of HP's commercial software and hardware units. It's also the site of a high-tech "customer briefing center," where HP holds meetings and shows off some of its wares to corporate clients.
"Closing the Cupertino site is a big change, and we recognize that the transition will touch all Bay Area employees in some way," said Pete Bocian, HP's chief administrative officer, in a memo sent to employees Thursday.
By consolidating operations in Palo Alto, he added, HP "will create a more productive, flexible, ecological and highly energized work environment."
...In a brief statement Thursday night, HP said the move is part of a broader strategy "to improve efficiency across the company. This effort allows HP to better use space, continue to reduce our carbon footprint and provide employees with a more collaborative work environment."
Blog on Asian American, education, cars, politics, videos, and anything else fun I run across.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Aug 2010 - You can still theoretically get 5% Shell Mastercard Rebate, but most likely time to dump it
Aug 2010 - You can still theoretically get 5% Shell Mastercard Rebate, but most likely time to dump it. I tried to track down a web version of this, but could not find it, so here is the scan, and a consumer summary. Unless you buy all your gas from Shell, the new deal is pretty much a bust, and they don't have many Shell stations in Idaho, so I guess I'm getting my sinclar/Stinker card instead. Fred Meyer in Boise also has has for 10c off if you have a FM card.
• Non-gas rebates are reduced from 1% to 0.5%
• No rebates at all for non-Shell gas
• Rebates are credited for FUTURE bills, not previous bill
• If you don’t rack up $25 in rebates, you don’t get paid. At 5% That means you have to buy $500 in gas, or 10 to 20 weeks worth, assuming you always buy at Shell, which you might not.
• Even if you do rack up $25 in rebates, you have to buy $25 in gasoline from Shell that month, or a fill-up or so.
• Rebates must be redeemed in 12 months
Box 6500
Sioux Falls, SD 57117
Dear Valued Customer,
Due to this challenging business and economic climate, the cost of doing business has dramatically increased. As a result, we need to make changes to your Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions . Please be assured that we value you as a customer and we have worked very hard to preserve the broad availability of credit as well as the value of your card. We sincerely appreciate your business and hope to serve you in the future at your neighborhood Shell station.
Even with these changes, you can earn 5% rebates on Shell gasoline purchases. Be sure to read the Notice below and the complete Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions on the reverse side. There is no action required on your part, but should you have any questions, please contact Customer Service at the number on the back of your card.
Citibank (South Dakota), N.A.
Notice of Changes to the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions
We are changing the terms and conditions of the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program, and replacing your current terms and conditions with the new Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions on the reverse side of this Notice. The new terms will be effective as of the first day of your first billing period that begins on or after August 1, 2010 ("Effective Date").
Listed below are some of the new terms of the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program. For complete details regarding the new terms of the Program, please review the new Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions.
1. You will earn a rebate of 0.50% on your purchases (other than Shell gasoline purchases and Jiffy Lube purchases, which continue to earn rebates of 5%). Rebates are earned only on qualifying purchases as described in the Shell Platinum Select Mastercard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions (It was 1%)
2. You will not earn any rebates on purchases of non-Shell branded fuels. (It was 1%)
3. The maximum amount of rebates you may earn in any billing cycle is $20. (I think this limit is new)
4. Rebates will be automatically redeemed on your billing statement by crediting your earned rebates toward qualifying Shell gasoline purchases made in future billing cycles. Rebates will be redeemed only in increments of $25. Once you have accrued $25 in rebates, you must make at least $25 in qualifying Shell gasoline purchases in a future billing cycle for
your rebates to be redeemed. This change will apply to any rebates you have earned, but that have not been redeemed, prior to the Effective Date.
5. Rebates not redeemed within twelve monthly billing cycles after the date they are earned will expire. You will forfeit all accrued rebates if your account is closed (whether closed by you or us) or if you default under the terms of your Card Agreement. For example, if you make a late payment or send us a payment that is not honored, you will forfeit all accrued rebates.
See reverse side for new Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions
SHELL PLATINUM SELECT MASTERCARD REBATE PROGRAM TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program is a program of Citibank (South Dakota), N.A. ("we" or "us"). Rebates are earned by making qualifying purchases with your Shell Platinum Select MasterCard. Only purchases made for personal, family or household purposes are qualifying purchases and earn rebates. In addition, the following purchases are not qualifying purchases and do not earn rebates: purchases made for business or commercial purposes, purchases of diesel or aviation fuel, and purchases of non-Shell branded fuels.
You earn rebates of 5% on qualifying gasoline purchases made at Shell locations in the United States ("Shell Purchases") and on qualifying purchases made at participating Jiffy Lube locations in the United States. You earn rebates of 0.50% on other qualifying purchases. The maximum amount of rebates you may earn in any billing cycle is $20. We decide whether your purchase is eligible for 0 rebate, and which rebate (if any) applies. Our decision may be based upon the information provided to us about your purchase by the Shell station, or other merchant, where your purchase was made.
The rebates you earn will be shown on your billing statement. Rebates will be automatically redeemed by crediting your earned rebates toward qualifying Shell Purchases made in future billing cycles. Rebates will be redeemed and credited on your statement only in increments of $25. Once you have accrued $25 in rebates, you must make at least $25 in qualifying Shell Purchases in a future billing cycle for your rebates to be redeemed.
Purchases returned for credit do not earn a rebate and your balance will be adjusted (including rebates already redeemed) in the event that the purchase is returned or a credit adjustment is otherwise issued. Rebates are not earned on cash advances, balance transfers, interest or finance charges, account fees or fees for services and programs you elect to receive through us. Your account must be open, and you must not be in default under the terms of your Card Agreement, in order to earn and redeem rebates.
Rebates are redeemed in the order they are earned. Any rebates not redeemed within twelve monthly billing cycles after the billing cycle in which they are earned will expire. You will forfeit all accrued rebates if your account is closed (whether closed by you or us) or if you default under the terms of your Card Agreement. You have no property rights or other legal interest in rebates. Rebates cannot be bought, sold, transferred or bartered in any way. Rebates are not redeemable in cash and do not create a credit balance on your account. Rebates cannot be used to make payments on your account.
We may cancel, terminate or otherwise change the terms of the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program at any time forany reason upon 30 days prior written notice. We reserve the right to interpret and apply the policies and procedures relating to the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program and our decisions are final. The Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate
Program and/or any of its individual elements are void where prohibited by federal, state or local law. If we suspect fraud or abuse related to your account or the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program, we may take appropriate administrative or legal action, including terminating your participation in the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program, making credit adjustments
to your account or accrued rebates for rebates not properly earned or redeemed, and/or closing your account. We are not responsible for disputes relating to rebates between joint account holders and/or authorized users. You are solely responsible for making any determinations regarding the tax consequences of any rebates you receive pursuant to the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program.
• Non-gas rebates are reduced from 1% to 0.5%
• No rebates at all for non-Shell gas
• Rebates are credited for FUTURE bills, not previous bill
• If you don’t rack up $25 in rebates, you don’t get paid. At 5% That means you have to buy $500 in gas, or 10 to 20 weeks worth, assuming you always buy at Shell, which you might not.
• Even if you do rack up $25 in rebates, you have to buy $25 in gasoline from Shell that month, or a fill-up or so.
• Rebates must be redeemed in 12 months
Box 6500
Sioux Falls, SD 57117
Dear Valued Customer,
Due to this challenging business and economic climate, the cost of doing business has dramatically increased. As a result, we need to make changes to your Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions . Please be assured that we value you as a customer and we have worked very hard to preserve the broad availability of credit as well as the value of your card. We sincerely appreciate your business and hope to serve you in the future at your neighborhood Shell station.
Even with these changes, you can earn 5% rebates on Shell gasoline purchases. Be sure to read the Notice below and the complete Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions on the reverse side. There is no action required on your part, but should you have any questions, please contact Customer Service at the number on the back of your card.
Citibank (South Dakota), N.A.
Notice of Changes to the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions
We are changing the terms and conditions of the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program, and replacing your current terms and conditions with the new Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions on the reverse side of this Notice. The new terms will be effective as of the first day of your first billing period that begins on or after August 1, 2010 ("Effective Date").
Listed below are some of the new terms of the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program. For complete details regarding the new terms of the Program, please review the new Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions.
1. You will earn a rebate of 0.50% on your purchases (other than Shell gasoline purchases and Jiffy Lube purchases, which continue to earn rebates of 5%). Rebates are earned only on qualifying purchases as described in the Shell Platinum Select Mastercard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions (It was 1%)
2. You will not earn any rebates on purchases of non-Shell branded fuels. (It was 1%)
3. The maximum amount of rebates you may earn in any billing cycle is $20. (I think this limit is new)
4. Rebates will be automatically redeemed on your billing statement by crediting your earned rebates toward qualifying Shell gasoline purchases made in future billing cycles. Rebates will be redeemed only in increments of $25. Once you have accrued $25 in rebates, you must make at least $25 in qualifying Shell gasoline purchases in a future billing cycle for
your rebates to be redeemed. This change will apply to any rebates you have earned, but that have not been redeemed, prior to the Effective Date.
5. Rebates not redeemed within twelve monthly billing cycles after the date they are earned will expire. You will forfeit all accrued rebates if your account is closed (whether closed by you or us) or if you default under the terms of your Card Agreement. For example, if you make a late payment or send us a payment that is not honored, you will forfeit all accrued rebates.
See reverse side for new Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program Terms and Conditions
SHELL PLATINUM SELECT MASTERCARD REBATE PROGRAM TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program is a program of Citibank (South Dakota), N.A. ("we" or "us"). Rebates are earned by making qualifying purchases with your Shell Platinum Select MasterCard. Only purchases made for personal, family or household purposes are qualifying purchases and earn rebates. In addition, the following purchases are not qualifying purchases and do not earn rebates: purchases made for business or commercial purposes, purchases of diesel or aviation fuel, and purchases of non-Shell branded fuels.
You earn rebates of 5% on qualifying gasoline purchases made at Shell locations in the United States ("Shell Purchases") and on qualifying purchases made at participating Jiffy Lube locations in the United States. You earn rebates of 0.50% on other qualifying purchases. The maximum amount of rebates you may earn in any billing cycle is $20. We decide whether your purchase is eligible for 0 rebate, and which rebate (if any) applies. Our decision may be based upon the information provided to us about your purchase by the Shell station, or other merchant, where your purchase was made.
The rebates you earn will be shown on your billing statement. Rebates will be automatically redeemed by crediting your earned rebates toward qualifying Shell Purchases made in future billing cycles. Rebates will be redeemed and credited on your statement only in increments of $25. Once you have accrued $25 in rebates, you must make at least $25 in qualifying Shell Purchases in a future billing cycle for your rebates to be redeemed.
Purchases returned for credit do not earn a rebate and your balance will be adjusted (including rebates already redeemed) in the event that the purchase is returned or a credit adjustment is otherwise issued. Rebates are not earned on cash advances, balance transfers, interest or finance charges, account fees or fees for services and programs you elect to receive through us. Your account must be open, and you must not be in default under the terms of your Card Agreement, in order to earn and redeem rebates.
Rebates are redeemed in the order they are earned. Any rebates not redeemed within twelve monthly billing cycles after the billing cycle in which they are earned will expire. You will forfeit all accrued rebates if your account is closed (whether closed by you or us) or if you default under the terms of your Card Agreement. You have no property rights or other legal interest in rebates. Rebates cannot be bought, sold, transferred or bartered in any way. Rebates are not redeemable in cash and do not create a credit balance on your account. Rebates cannot be used to make payments on your account.
We may cancel, terminate or otherwise change the terms of the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program at any time forany reason upon 30 days prior written notice. We reserve the right to interpret and apply the policies and procedures relating to the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program and our decisions are final. The Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate
Program and/or any of its individual elements are void where prohibited by federal, state or local law. If we suspect fraud or abuse related to your account or the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program, we may take appropriate administrative or legal action, including terminating your participation in the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program, making credit adjustments
to your account or accrued rebates for rebates not properly earned or redeemed, and/or closing your account. We are not responsible for disputes relating to rebates between joint account holders and/or authorized users. You are solely responsible for making any determinations regarding the tax consequences of any rebates you receive pursuant to the Shell Platinum Select MasterCard Rebate Program.
Friday, July 09, 2010
Michelle Phan Makeup Girl Gets 22 Million YouTube Ga Ga hits
Top Happyslip video is only 5 million. Are American girls watching this Asian American girl or what? Or Asian American guys? It's tedious for us guys see her transform from her plain look to OMG what did she just do?
Short Review Eagle Christian Church (Boise, Idaho)
Google didn't have a review, so here's a quick one I dashed off. They let me play with the AV duties pretty quickly, may take a while to integrate into the music group.
Smallish friendly Boise suburb megachurch
Working out here from Seattle where they have large churches like Overlake, but this one you can actually walk the entire parking lot, though they have a shuttle cart. Contemporary christian services, their main pastor was the one who opened for Sara Palin when she was in Boise. Very polished good contemporary Christian worship/music, Scott Riggans leads, they also have a youth band and services, lots of rooms and classes for kids, serves the affluent Eagle community and other communities (I drive out from Caldwell) about 5000 membership (or 2500?) Big but not huge nearly new facility with two big screens and baptism pool behind stage/altar, a/v crew has radios to talk to director. When I filled in my card, they drove to my house and dropped off a wrapped mug, very nice. This was the first church like this I have driven by and I haven't noticed any similar ones since.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Three Wone Defendants Found Not Guilty, No Killer Named. Where's those Vincent Chin activists when you need them?
Three Wone Defendants Found Not Guilty On Charges
Hat tip to Aaron Morrissey in News on June 29, 2010 12:18 PM
The three defendants in the Robert Wone obstruction trial were declared not guilty on obstruction and tampering charges this afternoon in one of the biggest official rulings in the case to date. Joseph Price, 39, Dylan Ward, 39, and Victor Zaborsky, 44, who opted for a ruling from the bench over a jury trial, were all charged with obstruction of justice, tampering with evidence and conspiracy -- though Zaborsky and Ward were both acquitted on the evidence tampering charges halfway through the trial.
D.C. Superior Court Judge Lynn Leibovitz began delivering the decision shortly before 11:30 this morning, and handed down the not guilty verdict moments ago. Leibovitz stated that Wone's murderer "was not an intruder." Leibovitz also stated that Ward and Zaborsky "didn't alter the crime scene," while Price "very likely altered" the knife used to kill Wone. But in the end, Leibovitz couldn't conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that Price did so. Additionally, Leibovitz also ruled out Michael Price, Joseph's brother, as the one who murdered Wone.
Price, Ward and Zaborsky would have faced a maximum of more than 30 years in prison if they had been convicted.
UPDATE: Full copy of the verdict, after the jump.
Judge Lynn Lebovitz' Verdict - Final Order 06292010
And here's the comments
Rosslyn replied to comment from Deep
No, the prosecution did not have evidence and never should have wasted this time and money.
There was so much reasonable doubt, you could drive a truck through the holes.
The prosecution witnesses contradicted themselves and testified in ways that undermined the case (the med examiner saying the murder happened in November, uh no, and that he didn't put the knife in a bag because he didn't think of the possibility it could get contaminated before he tested it). The prosecutors tried to make up for the weakness by making this about an--ooooh--GAY relationship among--ooooh--three men!! It was a farce.
These guys might have done something, but it was not proven beyond a reasonable doubt, and that is the way the system works. You don't lock someone up unless you prove it.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:48 PM [ report this ] monkeyrotica replied to comment from Rosslyn
You don't lock someone up unless you prove it.
A Bendy administration would work tirelessly to eliminate that little stumbling block.
Vote Bendy: Did He Fire Six Shots or Only Five?®
Reply
June 29, 2010 1:43 PM [ report this ] alexalexalex replied to comment from Rosslyn
Classic case of confusing "beyond reasonable doubt" with "beyond ANY doubt."
Reply
June 29, 2010 2:43 PM [ report this ] Guesty McSpanky replied to comment from alexalexalex
It could be argued that you're mistaking reasonable doubt for 'Oh, you just know they did it.'
Reply
June 29, 2010 2:58 PM [ report this ] Rosslyn replied to comment from Guesty McSpanky
that's sadly true when it comes to police and prosecutors. They "Know" so-and-so did it, so facts and evidence somehow appear to support the theory. There are a lot of wrongfully convicted folks out there on death row who can testify to that travesty and mockery of our legal system.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:03 PM [ report this ] Rosslyn replied to comment from alexalexalex
Actually, beyond a reasonable doubt means if there is any credible doubt, you cannot convict. There was more than that here. Prosecutors based a case on the knife and their own witnesses couldn't prove that up.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:01 PM [ report this ] alexalexalex replied to comment from Rosslyn
I'm sorry, but "beyond a reasonable doubt" does not mean "beyond any credible doubt," unless you are a defense attorney talking to a jury.
My biggest question is why the prosecution ever agreed to let this be decided by a judge. I think a jury would've been more likely to see this case clearly.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:07 PM [ report this ] Rosslyn replied to comment from alexalexalex
1) It is the standard the court applies, so yes, of course a defense lawyer will be arguing it.
2) The Constitution provides a right to jury trial. It is the defendants' sole discretion to waive that right or assert it. The prosecution has nothing to do with it.
And note, the defendants didn't get to pick their judge. If they had, they would have stuck with the one who heard the pretrial motions.
This judge, a former prosecutor, was installed as a result of prosecutors' motion.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:13 PM [ report this ] Entrada replied to comment from Rosslyn
>>This judge, a former prosecutor, was installed as a result of prosecutors' motion.
This just isn't true.
Reply
June 29, 2010 5:29 PM [ report this ] Rosslyn replied to comment from alexalexalex
oh, and a jury would have been required to apply the same standard. If it chose to ignore that standard and impose its own, that is reversible error.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:14 PM [ report this ] Entrada replied to comment from Rosslyn
>>The prosecutors tried to make up for the weakness by making this about an--ooooh--GAY relationship among--ooooh--three men!! It was a farce.
This was not the case at all. You seem to know very little about what actually happened.
Reply
June 29, 2010 5:38 PM [ report this ] [2]
fafou
This sucks. We all know someone knows something and no one's talking. Too bad something more couldn't have been done to find justice in this case.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:24 PM [ report this ] IMGoph replied to comment from fafou
agreed. the right verdict was handed down given the evidence, but justice has not been served for mr. wone.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:34 PM [ report this ] [3]
monkeyrotica
So if those three didn't do it, and the brother didn't do it, and an intruder didn't do it, who did it? And how much did the taxpayers have to pay to fight this case?
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:27 PM [ report this ] Lynne Venart replied to comment from monkeyrotica
Based on her conclusions, I guess at least one other person was over for their earlier bbq (or showed up later that night) and the 3 thought that person had left but he/she was still in the house and then attacked Wone?
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:35 PM [ report this ] braver replied to comment from monkeyrotica
no, the brother didn't do it, the intruder didn't do it, and the three weren't found guilty of COVERING IT UP. I think it's pretty clear who Leibowitz thinks did it.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:01 PM [ report this ] [4]
Deep
Do people really hate lawyers that much?
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:32 PM [ report this ] SomeoneStoleMyScreenNameJason replied to comment from Deep
Yes.
Reply
June 29, 2010 2:01 PM [ report this ] [5]
afm
I'm surprised by this. But the judge's findings really don't have any meaning, aside from explaining her verdict. Just because she "finds" that the brother didn't do it, it doesn't immunize him.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:33 PM [ report this ] [6]
Kev29
Well, this should clear things up
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:34 PM [ report this ] monkeyrotica replied to comment from Kev29
Well I'll certainly rest easier with my three gay lovers and their E-Stim equipment knowing that justice has been served a mickey, raped, and murdered in her sleep.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:47 PM [ report this ] [9]
Deep
Hot tub time machine killer.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:41 PM [ report this ] [12]
fortyforty
I guess this is the reason why they have civil actions.
I hope these 3 get used to living in that basement. The hurdle for civil cases is alot lower than reasonable doubt.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:58 PM [ report this ] [13]
Over the River
Robert Wone was gay. Why would he expect to have justice in this country?
Reply
June 29, 2010 1:04 PM [ report this ] nesredep replied to comment from Over the River
? Robert Wone was not openly gay.
Also, what happens to the defendants now? Even if they have been found innocent, their reputations have been ruined. I always wonder what happens to people in these situations--can they go back to work? Will they have to move?
Reply
June 29, 2010 1:14 PM [ report this ] Over the River replied to comment from nesredep
Those are good questions and I spoke tongue-in-cheek.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:44 PM [ report this ] [15]
iAManugget
gross. maybe they will steal something like OJ and go away for awhile. and "accidentally die" in the prison hospital
Reply
June 29, 2010 1:16 PM [ report this ] [16]
rabo k
Tomorrow's WaPO headline:
Three Gay Men Living Together in Sexual Relationship Found Not Guilty
Reply
June 29, 2010 1:17 PM [ report this ] [17]
DreadPirateRoberts
Let me guess - you're one of the junior associates on the defense. Tell your clients that they're very lucky. The prosecutors and the police have some 'splainin to do.
Reply
June 29, 2010 1:34 PM [ report this ] [20]
alexalexalex
OJ Simpson, the sequel.
I wonder if these three defendants will continue to follow the OJ mold and pen a book titled "If I Did It."
Reply
June 29, 2010 2:37 PM [ report this ] Entrada replied to comment from alexalexalex
I'm sure they're all working hard now to find the "real" killer too.
Reply
June 29, 2010 5:36 PM [ report this ]
Hat tip to Aaron Morrissey in News on June 29, 2010 12:18 PM
The three defendants in the Robert Wone obstruction trial were declared not guilty on obstruction and tampering charges this afternoon in one of the biggest official rulings in the case to date. Joseph Price, 39, Dylan Ward, 39, and Victor Zaborsky, 44, who opted for a ruling from the bench over a jury trial, were all charged with obstruction of justice, tampering with evidence and conspiracy -- though Zaborsky and Ward were both acquitted on the evidence tampering charges halfway through the trial.
D.C. Superior Court Judge Lynn Leibovitz began delivering the decision shortly before 11:30 this morning, and handed down the not guilty verdict moments ago. Leibovitz stated that Wone's murderer "was not an intruder." Leibovitz also stated that Ward and Zaborsky "didn't alter the crime scene," while Price "very likely altered" the knife used to kill Wone. But in the end, Leibovitz couldn't conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that Price did so. Additionally, Leibovitz also ruled out Michael Price, Joseph's brother, as the one who murdered Wone.
Price, Ward and Zaborsky would have faced a maximum of more than 30 years in prison if they had been convicted.
UPDATE: Full copy of the verdict, after the jump.
Judge Lynn Lebovitz' Verdict - Final Order 06292010
And here's the comments
Rosslyn replied to comment from Deep
No, the prosecution did not have evidence and never should have wasted this time and money.
There was so much reasonable doubt, you could drive a truck through the holes.
The prosecution witnesses contradicted themselves and testified in ways that undermined the case (the med examiner saying the murder happened in November, uh no, and that he didn't put the knife in a bag because he didn't think of the possibility it could get contaminated before he tested it). The prosecutors tried to make up for the weakness by making this about an--ooooh--GAY relationship among--ooooh--three men!! It was a farce.
These guys might have done something, but it was not proven beyond a reasonable doubt, and that is the way the system works. You don't lock someone up unless you prove it.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:48 PM [ report this ] monkeyrotica replied to comment from Rosslyn
You don't lock someone up unless you prove it.
A Bendy administration would work tirelessly to eliminate that little stumbling block.
Vote Bendy: Did He Fire Six Shots or Only Five?®
Reply
June 29, 2010 1:43 PM [ report this ] alexalexalex replied to comment from Rosslyn
Classic case of confusing "beyond reasonable doubt" with "beyond ANY doubt."
Reply
June 29, 2010 2:43 PM [ report this ] Guesty McSpanky replied to comment from alexalexalex
It could be argued that you're mistaking reasonable doubt for 'Oh, you just know they did it.'
Reply
June 29, 2010 2:58 PM [ report this ] Rosslyn replied to comment from Guesty McSpanky
that's sadly true when it comes to police and prosecutors. They "Know" so-and-so did it, so facts and evidence somehow appear to support the theory. There are a lot of wrongfully convicted folks out there on death row who can testify to that travesty and mockery of our legal system.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:03 PM [ report this ] Rosslyn replied to comment from alexalexalex
Actually, beyond a reasonable doubt means if there is any credible doubt, you cannot convict. There was more than that here. Prosecutors based a case on the knife and their own witnesses couldn't prove that up.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:01 PM [ report this ] alexalexalex replied to comment from Rosslyn
I'm sorry, but "beyond a reasonable doubt" does not mean "beyond any credible doubt," unless you are a defense attorney talking to a jury.
My biggest question is why the prosecution ever agreed to let this be decided by a judge. I think a jury would've been more likely to see this case clearly.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:07 PM [ report this ] Rosslyn replied to comment from alexalexalex
1) It is the standard the court applies, so yes, of course a defense lawyer will be arguing it.
2) The Constitution provides a right to jury trial. It is the defendants' sole discretion to waive that right or assert it. The prosecution has nothing to do with it.
And note, the defendants didn't get to pick their judge. If they had, they would have stuck with the one who heard the pretrial motions.
This judge, a former prosecutor, was installed as a result of prosecutors' motion.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:13 PM [ report this ] Entrada replied to comment from Rosslyn
>>This judge, a former prosecutor, was installed as a result of prosecutors' motion.
This just isn't true.
Reply
June 29, 2010 5:29 PM [ report this ] Rosslyn replied to comment from alexalexalex
oh, and a jury would have been required to apply the same standard. If it chose to ignore that standard and impose its own, that is reversible error.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:14 PM [ report this ] Entrada replied to comment from Rosslyn
>>The prosecutors tried to make up for the weakness by making this about an--ooooh--GAY relationship among--ooooh--three men!! It was a farce.
This was not the case at all. You seem to know very little about what actually happened.
Reply
June 29, 2010 5:38 PM [ report this ] [2]
fafou
This sucks. We all know someone knows something and no one's talking. Too bad something more couldn't have been done to find justice in this case.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:24 PM [ report this ] IMGoph replied to comment from fafou
agreed. the right verdict was handed down given the evidence, but justice has not been served for mr. wone.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:34 PM [ report this ] [3]
monkeyrotica
So if those three didn't do it, and the brother didn't do it, and an intruder didn't do it, who did it? And how much did the taxpayers have to pay to fight this case?
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June 29, 2010 12:27 PM [ report this ] Lynne Venart replied to comment from monkeyrotica
Based on her conclusions, I guess at least one other person was over for their earlier bbq (or showed up later that night) and the 3 thought that person had left but he/she was still in the house and then attacked Wone?
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June 29, 2010 12:35 PM [ report this ] braver replied to comment from monkeyrotica
no, the brother didn't do it, the intruder didn't do it, and the three weren't found guilty of COVERING IT UP. I think it's pretty clear who Leibowitz thinks did it.
Reply
June 29, 2010 3:01 PM [ report this ] [4]
Deep
Do people really hate lawyers that much?
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:32 PM [ report this ] SomeoneStoleMyScreenNameJason replied to comment from Deep
Yes.
Reply
June 29, 2010 2:01 PM [ report this ] [5]
afm
I'm surprised by this. But the judge's findings really don't have any meaning, aside from explaining her verdict. Just because she "finds" that the brother didn't do it, it doesn't immunize him.
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June 29, 2010 12:33 PM [ report this ] [6]
Kev29
Well, this should clear things up
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June 29, 2010 12:34 PM [ report this ] monkeyrotica replied to comment from Kev29
Well I'll certainly rest easier with my three gay lovers and their E-Stim equipment knowing that justice has been served a mickey, raped, and murdered in her sleep.
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June 29, 2010 12:47 PM [ report this ] [9]
Deep
Hot tub time machine killer.
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June 29, 2010 12:41 PM [ report this ] [12]
fortyforty
I guess this is the reason why they have civil actions.
I hope these 3 get used to living in that basement. The hurdle for civil cases is alot lower than reasonable doubt.
Reply
June 29, 2010 12:58 PM [ report this ] [13]
Over the River
Robert Wone was gay. Why would he expect to have justice in this country?
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June 29, 2010 1:04 PM [ report this ] nesredep replied to comment from Over the River
? Robert Wone was not openly gay.
Also, what happens to the defendants now? Even if they have been found innocent, their reputations have been ruined. I always wonder what happens to people in these situations--can they go back to work? Will they have to move?
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June 29, 2010 1:14 PM [ report this ] Over the River replied to comment from nesredep
Those are good questions and I spoke tongue-in-cheek.
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June 29, 2010 3:44 PM [ report this ] [15]
iAManugget
gross. maybe they will steal something like OJ and go away for awhile. and "accidentally die" in the prison hospital
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June 29, 2010 1:16 PM [ report this ] [16]
rabo k
Tomorrow's WaPO headline:
Three Gay Men Living Together in Sexual Relationship Found Not Guilty
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June 29, 2010 1:17 PM [ report this ] [17]
DreadPirateRoberts
Let me guess - you're one of the junior associates on the defense. Tell your clients that they're very lucky. The prosecutors and the police have some 'splainin to do.
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June 29, 2010 1:34 PM [ report this ] [20]
alexalexalex
OJ Simpson, the sequel.
I wonder if these three defendants will continue to follow the OJ mold and pen a book titled "If I Did It."
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June 29, 2010 2:37 PM [ report this ] Entrada replied to comment from alexalexalex
I'm sure they're all working hard now to find the "real" killer too.
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June 29, 2010 5:36 PM [ report this ]
Wow google has actual newspaper archives like microfilm
http://googlesystem.blogspot.com/2010/03/browse-newspapers-in-google-news.html
I just found an article from 1951 Spokane paper that is presented like a microfilmed newspaper. Very coo.
http://thenextweb.com/apps/2010/03/12/google-news-adds-awesome-browse-mode-archived-newspapers/
Google News Adds Awesome “Browse Mode” To Archived Newspapers
Posted by Alex Wilhelm Follow Alex Wilhelm on twitter on March 12th, 2010
Google just cannot stop releasing great products this month. Today the Google News team is releasing a great new feature that will help you scan through older archived newspapers in style.
From the Google News team:
We’re excited to announce the launch of browse mode for newspapers in Archives! To do so, click “Browse this newspaper” to view other editions from that newspaper!
Google has somehow found, indexed, scanned, and made available endless newspaper material for you to browse (for free of course). Exactly which papers you can browse is not laid out in perfect terms, but if you are searching for an article and you see the “Browse This Newspaper” button, you are all set.
It looks like this:
The view that Google provides for you to browse is quite pretty. Newspapers are sorted by newspaper name, and month of publication. Google for example has a good selection of papers from the News and Eastern Townships Advocate. The browse screen looks like this:
Good on Google for making more information even more accessible. I doubt that I will ever use this, but knowing that it exists makes me even more sure that our past will not be lost.
Enjoy being the first to hear about new apps and new features? Join TNW Apps on Facebook and Twitter, or grab our RSS feed here.
About the Author
Alex Wilhelm
Alex Wilhelm is a Chicago-based technology blogger and entrepreneur. He has worked for a number of technology companies in recent years, and has a particular interest in watching the social web monetize. Follow Alex on Twitter, or on Facebook. You can reach Alex via email at alex@thenextweb.com
I just found an article from 1951 Spokane paper that is presented like a microfilmed newspaper. Very coo.
http://thenextweb.com/apps/2010/03/12/google-news-adds-awesome-browse-mode-archived-newspapers/
Google News Adds Awesome “Browse Mode” To Archived Newspapers
Posted by Alex Wilhelm Follow Alex Wilhelm on twitter on March 12th, 2010
Google just cannot stop releasing great products this month. Today the Google News team is releasing a great new feature that will help you scan through older archived newspapers in style.
From the Google News team:
We’re excited to announce the launch of browse mode for newspapers in Archives! To do so, click “Browse this newspaper” to view other editions from that newspaper!
Google has somehow found, indexed, scanned, and made available endless newspaper material for you to browse (for free of course). Exactly which papers you can browse is not laid out in perfect terms, but if you are searching for an article and you see the “Browse This Newspaper” button, you are all set.
It looks like this:
The view that Google provides for you to browse is quite pretty. Newspapers are sorted by newspaper name, and month of publication. Google for example has a good selection of papers from the News and Eastern Townships Advocate. The browse screen looks like this:
Good on Google for making more information even more accessible. I doubt that I will ever use this, but knowing that it exists makes me even more sure that our past will not be lost.
Enjoy being the first to hear about new apps and new features? Join TNW Apps on Facebook and Twitter, or grab our RSS feed here.
About the Author
Alex Wilhelm
Alex Wilhelm is a Chicago-based technology blogger and entrepreneur. He has worked for a number of technology companies in recent years, and has a particular interest in watching the social web monetize. Follow Alex on Twitter, or on Facebook. You can reach Alex via email at alex@thenextweb.com
Monday, June 28, 2010
Help! My AVG is in Geavanceerde instellingen Dutch!
OK folks, the "how to change language" help on the internet is useless if you're already in dutch. So I poked around and figured out where Tools Advance Language is if you're in Dutch / Netherlands:
From the Top Menu:
Extra = Tools
Advance = Geavanceerde instellingen
Left pane : Weergave
Right pane: Taalselectie:
Nederlands / English
Hit Ok.
It won't change the language until you restart.
Close with red x in upper right corner
Restart from system icon in lower right
It should show up in english.
Leave comments if this helped you out.
From the Top Menu:
Extra = Tools
Advance = Geavanceerde instellingen
Left pane : Weergave
Right pane: Taalselectie:
Nederlands / English
Hit Ok.
It won't change the language until you restart.
Close with red x in upper right corner
Restart from system icon in lower right
It should show up in english.
Leave comments if this helped you out.
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