Free Email Address Verifier

This free Email Address Verification Tool lets you check whether an email address actually exists before you send an email. It connects to the mail server and reports whether the server is valid and that the username is recognised. It actually just saves you waiting on those Postmaster error messages.

Of course the address may be legitimate but still never read by the user. In this case the email will end up in the ether with no reply from user or Postmaster.

[via LifeHacker]

The Ford Nucleon - a transport solution for peak oil and carbon emissions?

The Ford Nucleon was a nuclear powered concept car developed by the Ford Motor Company in 1958. The rear mounted reactor provided a 8000 km range and could be exchanged at charging stations, which were anticipated to replace petrol stations. The forward position of the cabin provided a degree of protection to the occupants from the reactor.

Thankfully, no operational models were built, but it's a wonder Howard hasn't picked this one up - it's American, nuclear powered and dates from the Menzies era!

[Wikipedia via EcoGeek]

What a Wonderful World - amazing shadow puppet performance

The Helpmann Awards recognise artistic achievement in Australian musical theatre, contemporary music, comedy, opera, classical music, dance and physical theatre.

An absolute highlight of the 2007 event was the shadow puppetry of Raymond Crowe shown in this YouTube video...

..

Save Water Save Energy Expo, 19-21 October, Melbourne

Friday 19 - Sunday 21 October, 10am to 7pm
Melbourne Exhibition Centre
Adults $15, Student/Concession $13, children under 14 free
NOTE: Online tickets are only $10.00 (until 5pm Thursday 18 October)!

This expo focuses on ways to save water and energy and reduce the impact of climate change. A “one stop shop” for environmental solutions for homes, schools and business. Practical free seminars on topics ranging from low-energy lighting solutions to installing solar hot water systems and water tanks will run continuously over the three days. The ABC’s popular Carbon Cops will also be on hand show how to give homes and lifestyles an energy makeover and ways to reduce carbon emissions and energy bills by 24% in 24 hours. With close to 100 exhibitors the Expo showcases products and services which save water, save energy, reduce waste, improve recycling and provide cleaner energy for use in the home or business. Visitors will be able to save money by comparing and buying hundreds of amazing products to cut water and energy use and bills. The best eco technologies on the market will be demonstrated and experts available to answer questions.

In partnership with Sustainability Victoria.

More info and online tickets at Expo homepage

[Alternative Technology Association blog]