I’ve updated my genealogy site. New version of PHP and new version of TNG. Looks pretty snazzy, even if it is just using one of the pre-made templates. The data is still from 2004, but the site is all new like.
My non-blogging site, rjmaguire.com, that mainly hosts my genealogy stuff, was hacked recently. The perp found an underground published security hole in the 3rd party genealogy software I use called TNG: The Next Generation. I found a message on their support forums that describes how to close the hole and now it has. I’ve also replaced the damaged file (as they at least were kind enough to only do a minimal amount of damage).
I don’t blame the author of the software or the PHP programming language. It was an easy mistake to make. I still intend on using the software (and upgrade to the newest version even). It was my own fault for not keeping a closer eye on the server logs and on the TNG mailing list to notice that this kind of thing was going on.
I haven’t actually been able to pinpoint the exact day or time when the hack occurred. The first attempts began in mid-March. I don’t think the hack actually occurred until just a few days ago, when I noticed the page on my site was posted in a Spanish-language forum as a badge of honour as it were. Thankfully, the kids trying this stuff out aren’t really that bright, as witnessed by a lot of failures to even copy and paste correctly.
One of them actually managed to copy a couple of executables that looked like IRC server software or something, but was undoubtedly stopped cold when it had no chance of running on my server’s architecture.
I’ve found a new toy to occupy my time… facebook.com. I joined back in Nov, 2006, when they opened their doors to the public. I heard a lot of MySpace people were migrating to Facebook, and I wanted to see what the big deal was. Well, not a whole lot was going on at the time.
But only just a week or two ago, friend requests started trickling in from old school chums I hadn’t seen in 10 – 15 years! Now I’ve got several dozen people on there that I’ve either gone to school with or worked with, and it’s starting to feel like it’s building to a critical mass. Give it a try!
As I write this, faceborg.com is still untaken for those with a sense of humour.
In no particular order:
Up a Paddle (iTunes Link)
The weekly ramblings of my buddy Kentcer. Mostly covers news and reviews of computers, video games, movies, and anime. Filled with “Angry Dome” rants and pseudo-scientific “Random Facts,” it’s both entertaining and educational.
JamesPod (iTunes Link)
Those of you from Regina or the surrounding area may remember The James and Kevin Show from Cable Regina and Access Communications. Well, James is back in his own podcast with the same witty and irreverent humour as before. Also simulcast in youtube and blip.tv.
Two Girls and a Podcast (iTunes Link)
Two great gals from New Brunswick host a show about books, movies, tv, or anything else that suits their fancy. ‘A’ is for awesome…
BLARM! (iTunes Link)
What is it with chicks from Atlantic Canada and podcasting? An audible diary of a girl named WankerGirl, including all the ups and downs that go with it. It’s another lovable, quirky podcast. She must be doing something right, as she’s now part of the PodShow Network.
Podpackers (iTunes Link)
Hosted by Heath Corson, Ned Mochel, and Krista Lally. You might already be familiar with a couple of them if you’ve seen the Cake short. A new episode comes out every two weeks. Season one has ended, but they say season two will be starting up early next year. Hard to tell if they’re acting, or genuinely shooting the breeze. Either way, it’s brilliant.
Already In Progress (iTunes Link)
Another “shootin’ the breeze” podcast. Two friends, Jason and Gary, catch eachother up on their previous days’ activities. Not sure what it is, but it’s surprisingly captivating (possibly, it’s Gary’s infectious laugh). Slightly erratic schedule, but a new episode seems to come out every few days. Each episode ends quite abruptly, usually on a funny note.
Chicken Fried Radio (iTunes Link)
I’ve referenced this podcast before. This one has been a featured iTunes podcast in the comedy section. Another ensemble cast (T E, Christian, Abby, and sometimes Ryan or a special guest). It’s not very often that a podcast comes along that has its own Wikipedia entry. Very regular schedule. Once a week; new episodes on Wednesdays. Also has its own fan forums. Based out of Austin, Texas.
Naughty Karate (iTunes Link)
Slightly musically oriented. Hosted by Jaime and Kyle, and based out of Brooklyn, New York. Quirky podcast where they talk about pretty much whatever the hell they want. Catchy theme.
Chub Creek (iTunes Link)
Two best friends from the same small town in Ontario, grow up, spread out to different parts of the country, become fathers, and find eachother online after having not seen the other in years. Amatuer musicians, Dave and Gary, write and play their original songs for the podcast, as well as doing some skits to pass the time. Due to an extended leave of absence by Gary, Dave has been hosting the show by himself lately.
This is Screaming Halibut (iTunes Link)
Weird name. Funny show. Geek humour galore. Audio sketch comedy from Toronto, Ontario, I believe. Each episode is 10 minutes long.
Remember Line Rider? Amazing!