Update
I can no longer recommend the Tivo HD. Since I’ve been using it with Verizon’s FIOS service, I’ve had far too many pixelation and sound issues. Tivo customer service insists that the problems are caused by Verizon’s signal. While this may true, the issues don’t exist with a Verizon box connected to the same signal. It’s very hard for me to say to Verizon, “Your signal is bad. Fix it.” when their equipment works correctly using it.
How much does it cost?
My factory refurbished Tivo HD DVR cost me $179, which was $120 less than the cost of a brand new unit. Service for the lifetime of the unit (not my lifetime) cost me $399. Effectively, the unit cost $578 refurbished or $698 new. As of this post, Tivo was no longer offering refurbished Tivo HDs on its website. At post time, Amazon was offering new Tivo HDs for $249 with free shipping (excluding the required Tivo service).
Continue reading Review of my Tivo HD DVR »
What is my FICO Score?
Your FICO Score is a number, in the range of 300-850, that represents how risky it would be for someone to loan you money. It is calculated based on data from a credit report about you.
Why should I care?
The way you use credit now will dramatically influence the amount it will cost you to borrow money later. The images below are from MyFICO.com, which is run by the company that calculates your FICO Score.
Continue reading Your FICO Score »
I have heard students defend their inappropriate behavior in school by claiming that it is protected by “freedom of speech” or “freedom of expression.” When asked to elaborate, most students are unable to do so clearly and accurately.
In the Tinker v. Des Moines case, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that students have rights to freedom of speech and expression in public schools. Schools cannot prohibit a student from expressing an opinion merely “to avoid the discomfort and unpleasantness that always accompany an unpopular viewpoint.”
Does this mean that students can say whatever they want whenever they want?
Continue reading Free speech at school »
The following is a research paper that I wrote for a graduate class on school law. Only the formatting has been changed for posting here, the content has not been edited. A PDF version is available with the original formatting.
Continue reading Should school staff carry weapons? »
