AOL has acquired widgetmaker Goowy for an undisclosed amount. AOL claims it will roll out new widgets on its sites and integrate Goowy's technology into its advertising network. That's all very exciting, but when has AOL ever bought a company that changed the course of its business? Whatever That's for another post.

Though its timing is coincidental with Microsoft's bid for Yahoo, this deal reminds us that AOL is still around and is still buying companies — a good thing to remember during these tumultuous times. For the Valley's entrepreneurs, the main effect of Yahoo going into play — whether Microsoft or someone else lands it — is that there will be one less buyer for their startups. (Photo by shuttercat7)