Man Trapped in Elevator Video Becomes an Internet Hit: But Why?

GeekSugar — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 06:30:11 -0700

I'm sure you've probably seen this video already, since it's been spreading on the Internet like a wildfire, but if you haven't, here's some background info to bring you up to speed. On Friday October 15, 1999, Nicholas White went outside for a cigarette break while working in New York's McGraw-Hill building (it was 11pm on a Friday). On his way back, the elevator stopped, and he was trapped for 41 hours.

The surveillance camera footage of those horrifying two days has just surfaced on the Internet and it has already been viewed 1.3 million times on YouTube. The video shows White panicking, pacing, trying to sleep and pry the doors apart. According to The New Yorker, who ran an entire article about the ordeal, White said that he feels as though people are so captivated by the video because they wonder what they would have done if it happened to them. I have to admit, after watching the video last week, I think about it every time I step foot in an elevator, even though I'm constantly armed with my cell phone. It also stirs up alot of emotions inside me, including frustration, sadness and hope for White. Why do you think people are so obsessed with this video?

To see the three minute time-lapse video, read more

People Love Their Cell Phones: Not So Much Their Keys or Wallets

GeekSugar — Wed, 14 May 2008 11:00:18 -0700

I knew I was onto something when I asked geeksugar readers whether their BlackBerry or wallet was more important to them - all in lieu of the story about Naomi Campbell freaking out when she couldn't find her BlackBerry. Sixty-seven percent of you said your wallet is where it's at, even though a new study points in the opposite direction.

USA Today notes that in a recent study, 2,367 participants were asked what they would choose if they had to leave their house for 24 hours and could only take one item with them. The options of items included a wallet, keys, laptop or MP3 player, with one-third of workers selecting their mobile device. Keep in mind that the participants were defined as "hyperconnected workers," which means that they are someone who uses at least seven devices for work and personal access. I can't even imagine spending 24 hours without my phone, I'm getting anxious just thinking about it. I've got two words for you: Nicholas White!