I'll take the 401 and 93 but I won't take 401 and the I-93.

Language log takes a peek at the regionally-idiomatic use of the definite article for highways, public transport systems, and neighborhoods. (Triggered by a NoCal/SoCal difference on the matter.)

Thinking quickly, Montreal English throws a definite article in front of all the highways. (Even the Decarie.) New York uses just numbers, and so does Boston. (I don't think I ever heard anyone use a definite article or even an "I" for the interstates.) Indiana uses the I, but not the definite article, although I'm not sure I'm remembering that correctly.

Public transit takes the definite article in Boston, Montreal, and New York, I think. (I will take the T, the Metro, the Subway.)

Anyone have thoughts on local idiosyncrasies they notice?

Woo

O.E. wogian, of uncertain origin and with no known cognates; perhaps related to woh, wog- "bent, inclined," as with affection.

Really? "Woo" as in "to woo him" is of uncertain origin? That's kind of neat.

Because when I think "aid for women", I think Stephen Harper

Oh wait, no I don't.

But the UN does.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is helping oversee a new United Nations group focused on aid for women’s and children’s health.

The Commission on Information and Accountability for Women’s and Children’s Health will create a system to help countries monitor where and how they spend resources devoted to those two areas.

You know, I often think that the way to get things done is to put them in the hands of people who shouldn't be trusted to run with safety scissors. For instance, the economy is in ruins, lets give our money to the banksters and hope they fix things. Also, Gotham City is a mess, we should totally let the Joker take over as Commissioner. BECAUSE ITS SMART, THAT'S WHY! (Also, have you seen his snazzy purple suit! He must have lots of money, and that's how you know people are good - they throw money around.)

I expect nothing but better programs for women and children from this.
Really.

Rowan vs Rowena

This series of articles about Mountain Bike Champion Rowena Fry touched off a discussion here at the office. Our resident Australian insisted that her sister's name is the "female version of Rowan" and was shocked when a few of us pointed out that most of the Rowans we know are female.

So is Rowan as a feminine name a North American thing? A modern thing? Or is Australia just weird?

Trolololo Cat

I want a cat that does this.