Yokohama, Japan: The world's fastest computer, the Earth Simulator, is to be lauded not only for its processing capabilities, but also its futuristic, yet colorful and engaging, exterior, announced The Leisure Agency today. Featuring a bright turquoise chassis with a metallic stripe and appealing orange dot, the banks of computers give off a "friendly, yet superintelligent, aura," said Agent Hilatron, "which is just the effect we look for in our large data processing clusters." More on the Earth Simulator can be found here and here.
India: Train conductor S K Kundu took a bold stance in favor of Leisure on Monday, when he refused to adhere to foolish working schedules which required him to drive 11 hours without a break. The express train he was driving encountered several delays along its route, and, after being denied his request for relief three times, Kundu simply left the train at the station in Azimgunj, citing his own exhaustion and the safety of passengers as the reason. Train officials reacted with typical distrust of the Leisure needs of the individual, stating that they would look into the matter and would mete out punishment, if appropriate. However, railway union officials are behind Kundu and will support him if management decides to take action based on Mr. Kundu's assertion of his rights. Read more on this story here.
Boston: Tilt your head southward in a moment of sadness for the passing of the Upstairs Lounge, that "bohemian cavern" (Boston Globe) which met so well the dancing needs of Boston's ironically coiffured youth. This untimely demise was uncovered last Friday when a small crew of hoodie wearers were firmly stopped at the door to what was once the Pill (Britpop dance night) by a tall man in chaps and a throbbing 4 on the floor base drum. The Upstairs Lounge has become leather bar, and our dirty denim, not welcome.
However, we have discovered a virtually abandoned karaoke bar in the general vicinity with $8 pitchers of the house sake and yummy dumpling treats available before 9pm. Tatsukichi at 189 State Street, Government Center T stop. Enjoy.
-Reported by Agent Courtney
Agent Courtney is seeking participants in her all-girl Smiths tribute band. She's got the Morrissey vocals and the fabulous angst down pat; now she just needs some musically inclined, like-minded cohorts. See her Agent Page for the details.