Random links

France wants companies to make appliances that last longer
"France is ordering manufacturers to inform consumers how long they can expect their TV, cell phone or other appliance to last — before they buy it." Trying to work around planned obsolescence sounds worthwhile.
How Oregon's Second Largest City Vanished in a Day
Did not know the following about Oregon: "When Oregon was admitted to the United States in 1859, it was the only state whose state constitution explicitly forbade black people from living, working or owning property within its borders. Until 1926, it was illegal for black people to even move into the state"
How cable networks speed up shows to squeeze in more ads
I tend to squeeze in a lot of audiobooks and podcast at about 2-3x actual speed which would look pretty ridiculous in video form. However, it seems broadcasters are indeed increasing speed: "channels like TBS and TNT are now speeding up syndicated programs, classics films and other shows by as much as 7 percent. ... A Seinfeld episode that originally ran 25 minutes was nearly 22 after the process"
Surprisingly Uncontroversial Program That Gives Money To Poor People
Earned Income Tax credits... how to incentivize work while helping the poor.