Back in the 60’s, I had a weather changing machine that was, in essence, a sophisticated heat beam which we called a "laser." Using these "lasers," we punch a hole in the protective layer around the Earth, which we scientists call the "Ozone Layer." Slowly, but surely, ultraviolet rays would pour in, increasing the risk of skin cancer.

That is, unless the world pays us… for our online content?

That’s right, the Atlantic is reporting that the top execs from two-dozen news organizations — including The New York Times, Gannett, E. W. Scripts, McClatchy, Hearst Newspapers, MediaNews Group and the Associated Press — held a "discreet meeting" Thursday in an obscure exhibition hall in Chicago to discuss "Models to Monetize Content" (otherwise known as "triage" in the rest of the world).

We like this plan.  For far too long millions of freeloaders have had it too damn easy, able to find out FOR FREE which KFCs were burned and looted in protest over CouponGate, while millions (dozens?) more — right in our own back yard — have been able to follow all the Tweets that are fit to print … without paying a dime.  This must not stand.

Gentlemen, fire up that "laser."