No. 388 · Arlington, Va. · Sat, Oct 24, 2026

Tertulia

A quiet corner of the internet. No algorithms, no ads — just Josh’s notes on government software, Scala, and where AI agents should be allowed to go.

Thursday, March 5

It probably makes sense to fund at least some of CBP, even if not to the level they ask, or specific functions. Should also not make it possible for DHS to simply move ICE on paper under DHS to get around a lack of appropriations for that function. USCG, FEMA, CISA, TSA, USCIS, Secret Service (am I missing anyone?) should be good to go.

Wednesday, March 4

I don't think eliminating religion would eliminate magical thinking. Religious beliefs are, fundamentally, social, the result of psychological pressures inherent in the human psyche, and, therefore, will continue to exist. My only hope is that fewer irrational precepts — purity culture, abstinence education, opposition to early-term abortion and sex work, end-of-life autonomy, and harm reduction — would enjoy the untouchable social and political armor it seems to provide.

news.gallup.com Americans' Religious Engagement Holds at Lower Levels Less than half of Americans continue to say religion is very important in their lives, while more say they have no religious affiliation.

[Meta] This app has, for the past couple of months, admirably served exactly the purpose I had for it. There are, of course, some rough edges - all involving Quill and rich text. Otherwise, I am quite pleased.

Tuesday, March 3
Monday, March 2