what is up with software update systems these days?

Java's auto-update checker threw up a dialog with "Upgrade your version of Java and get OpenOffice free!" (as if it costs money for OpenOffice).

Then winamp's auto-update checker threw up a dialog with "Download the 10th anniversary edition of winamp, 5.5!"  as if this standard security patch with a new feature or two was all that different from any other upgrade I've done (or ignored) over the last few years.

So what the hell?  Why are standard, FREE (and always have been), update processes all using the same marketing bullshit we have to put up with everywhere else?

Nearest I can think of (given that I just started the winamp download) is that they're getting paid for the advertising you see as you page through the upgrade process, especially the big giant add from Microsoft (wait a minute, aren't you a winamp *competitor* with your Windows Media Player?) Office that came up along with the "thank you for downloading winamp" message...

Danse Macabre 2006

Danse Macabre 2006.

Shot by wildwose (who I hope doesn't mind I posted them) last year.

This is to give those who are thinking of bringing new ones a hint as to what we do and how to dress for it. ( details for those who may be participating )

One last dance rehearsal and review of the instructions will take place at 5pm at Hengrave Hall on Saturday.