Well, after a very busy last few days and a great vacation last week I thought I would check the old convoginators to see what was shakin. After reading through Phynerk's post I have to say I'm sorry you have to 'live in this stupid place now' as well.
It's funny that someone that who sits in their office and watches a spider eat another dead bug could complain about the current world around us. I mean come on, it's clear you are doing everything within your ability to improve things. If you sense sarcasm here Good, it is intended.
Basically I find your dismal view on the world around us leaning toward grossly pathetic. For one, if you don't like sitting on your ass and doing nothing guess what, that's a real easy thing to solve. I've learned most the skills I know while working other jobs that were not related to what I was learning while on the job. Second, if you don't like the current world around you than get off your ass and contribute in doing something about it. I'm not sure, but it sounds like your schedule may be free.
Now, all that said. Sorry if this offends anyone, but those of you that know me know me well enough to know that I really don't care if I did. hah
