Denton Record-Chronicle Candidate Essay

Quantum Computing is Closer Than You Think

In technical circles, quantum computing is considered "the next big thing", with multiple world governments and mega-corporations like Google, Apple, and Amazon working to develop a marketable solution (even if the initial costs are relatively prohibitive).

Although the few currently existing quantum computers are still too small to outperform usual (classical) computers for practical applications, larger realizations are believed to be capable of solving certain computational problems, such as integer factorization (which underlies most existing computer security encryption), substantially faster than classical computers. This means that whoever is able to make a working quantum computer to the scale that would be able to meet or exceed current (classical) computing systems would be able to secure their data within a virtually un-hackable system. Ascribing more sinister motives, that also means that whoever has this technology would likely be able to infiltrate ANY classical computing system on the planet. 

And the race is on...

Fusion Technology Might Be Within Our Grasp

Nuclear fusion produces zero long-lived radioactive waste. Its fuel, hydrogen, is nearly limitless (and extremely cheap) because it can be extracted from seawater. Nuclear fusion is essentially the carbon-free energy producer of our dreams.

Texans Confront New Voting "Nightmare"

I will not be voting in the primary elections here in Texas. Nevertheless, these new voting laws that the Republican-controlled legislature enacted to "quickly and easily reduce voter fraud" are having EXACTLY the deleterious effect that Libertarians predicted would occur.

Apparently, neither Burger King nor Pepsi are allowed anymore (according to Texas law).

England Closes In on Nuclear Fusion

Nuclear fusion is NOT some pie-in-the-sky idea. So why are Americans afraid of it?

The Unsheltered are Still People

Many of the unsheltered remain so for personal reasons, but unless we take the time to talk to them, to find out who they are and what they really need, we will always be confused as to their motivations.

One Way to Resolve Topsoil Issues

I was recently asked to participate in a voter guide questionnaire where one of the topics related to topsoil issues that plague Texas farmers and ranchers. This article suggests one way (out of many that are possible) that we could reverse many of the indicated topsoil issues: devote a portion of that area to hemp farming. 

Nuclear Fusion Is Possible

I believe the time has come to bring nuclear fusion technology to Texas.

Nuclear fusion (joining atoms together) is a far safer alternative than the more common nuclear fission (splitting atoms apart). This process requires no fossil fuels, leaves behind no radioactive waste, and it works! While there is still a lot of research needed, the success in China suggests that researchers are coming closer to sustainably harnessing the sun's power for the energy needs of the 21st Century (and beyond).