Say what?

Just when, exactly, did the word issue become a synonym for the word problem? Are we now so traumatised by the world that we're forced to use dumb euphemisms rather than confront things head on?

Ties that bind

When I was preparing for my conference talk, I was a bit upset to notice that all the other speakers - well, all the other in house speakers - were wearing ties whereas I'd opted for my normal gothic chic. Well, it turns out that I was right - ties are out. From the same article, it looks like bondage and knot tying are in. Finally, a chance to show off my ability to tie a sheet bend blindfold...