Estonian Online Poll a World First
By Kate Connolly, The Guardian
Online voting in general elections is now a reality... in Estonia. In a national parliamentary election held earlier this week, more than 30,000 Estonians cast their votes online, helping deliver victory to the Reform Party. The integrity of the e-election was maintained through computerized national ID cards and multiple passwords. The tiny Baltic state, which boasts expansive wireless networks, widely used internet banking, and online cabinet meetings, has gone so far as to declare internet access a basic human right. -- Natalie Hudson
http://technology.guardian.co.uk/news/story/0,,2025719,00.html

An Open Letter to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
By John Sinno, Baltimore Chronicle & Sentinel
For nominee John Sinno, producer of the documentary Iraq in Fragments, the 2007 Academy Awards didn't turn out to be the red-carpeted fairy tale portrayed on TV. In an open letter to the Academy, he laments Jerry Seinfeld's introduction to the documentary category -- in which the comedian called the films 'incredibly depressing' -- as damaging to documentaries' appeal. What could prove more detrimental to the mostly small and independent genre, however, is the Academy's recent change in the category's eligibility requirements. Documentaries now must screen in 75 percent more cities in order to qualify, making things even tougher on independent filmmakers. Under such requirements, Sinno notes, Iraq in Fragments wouldn't have been eligible for a nomination. -- Natalie Hudson
http://baltimorechronicle.com/2007/030307SINNO.shtml

Like a Spam Filter for Your Mailbox
By Todd Hymas, Gristmill Blog
More than a half-dozen states are considering legislation this year to create a 'do not mail' list for residents -- a welcome development for eco-minded mail recipients and those who are simply fed up with sorting through piles of junk mail. But not everyone is jumping at the chance to sign up. Akin to the kerfuffle that sent telemarketers protesting the federal 'do not call' registry, the Direct Marketing Association, along with groups including the mail carrier union, are rallying against the 'do not mail' bills. Their argument? Junk mail is more important to the economy (and post office employees) than many understand. -- Jenna Fisher
http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2007/3/2/131717/0368