The wonders of old-time technology

Vines staffers spent some time looking at the wonders of the post-modern world while covering events at IBM”™s Palisades Conference Center, which is perched on the border of Rockland  and Bergen, N.J. counties. 

Besides the wealth of laptops available to anyone in need of an instant connection throughout the building, the conference center and hotel is a mini-museum, showcasing the genius of Leonardo DaVinci and home to some “modern” marvels from the 19^th and early 20^th centuries.

Ironically, all the ancient inventions on display are  “green” and were considered “ahead of their time” technology when first introduced. 

As we rush through our 24/7 worlds with laptops, Blackberrys, GPS systems and oil-hungry autos, taking a look back at what “modern” inventors were touting as marvels might be a lesson for all of us. If the economy gets any tighter, these “ancient” methods may well come back into vogue.  Things might become smaller and more complicated, but these marvels of post-modern technology are still in pretty good shape. They are still working after decades, while most of us are lucky to get five good years out of products produced in today”™s throwaway economy. 

 

Five new businesses keeping the faith in the Hudson Valley:

 

Chinatown Restaurant ”“ Mott  Street comes to the Hudson Valley.

 

4Him Cleaning Services ”“ When “her” gets tired of doing the tidying up.

 

Pet Playmates ”“ What would Hef say?

 

Angel”™s To Go ”“ Arriving  on wings to bring your order.

 

The Gate Guys””Keeping those unwanted visitors away from your front door.