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Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Comic 881: The Rejected Guest Reviews
Hello there! For some reason two people sent me guest reviews even though they weren't really into it, and today I'm going to show them (the reviews, I mean, show you the reviews). But first, admire the vast improvement I've made to the comic, above!
Anyway the first one was by your "Ann Apolis," and it went like this:
Greetings, cuddlefish and sucksters alike. I am Ann Apolis M.D., here to cast a surgeon's eye (someday I hope to find out which surgeon) over the latest xkcd. Is strip 881 a simple case for outpatients, or is its lack of humour inoperable? Do I inform the next-of-kin with a smile on my face and a couple of jokes or a sombre expression and a comforting voice? Will the tenuous medical analogies continue? I'm as eager to find out as you.
Here it is:
[image: http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/probability.png Text: Aww, shit.]
Now I wrote the preceding intro paragraph before the comic came up (in fact I wrote it on Saturday when I decided I was going to do the next guest post) and now that it is what it is it looks a li'l heartless. Unfortunately my keyboard does not have a backspace key so I'll have to keep going.
Is it funny? It's not that unfunny, actually; black humour is the best type of humour and this is certainly an example of that. But it leaves me a little uncomfortable - insert the pictoblog argument here if you want, ask 'why is this a comic?' - so I'll just note that the fourth panel really detracts from the feel of the comic: stick figures can't really convey a hug and I don't think '*sniff* they're hugging this is sad' I think 'wow trying to draw two stick figures hugging like that really doesn't work, huh'. So a minus mark there I guess. But still. Uh. :/
The next one is by "Gamer 2k4" or whatever and it went like this:
This is Gamer_2k4 again, by popular request. I originally didn't want to review this one because I couldn't really get angry about it. I still don't want to do it, but I don't want to leave this review in the hands of someone else, either. This is a serious strip and deserves a serious review, not some flippant Megan joke or irrelevant babbling to fill space.
If you didn't know, Randall has a family member who's pretty sick. He first mentions it here (which, incidentally, brought on two weeks of much higher quality comics), and comes back to it here and here. Now, with today's comic, it seems that this isn't something that's going to go away anytime soon.
[image removed because whatever]
Alt-text: My normal approach is useless here, too.
I bring this up, not because I'm trying to prompt sympathy, but because this strip recalls a time when Randall's comics were for him and him alone. He let his creativity out in the only way he knew how: sketching and doodling. Sure, they went up on the internet, but the idea then was, "If people like this, great, if not, no matter. These are mine." If his life inspired the strips, more power to him. It was only once he strayed from that formula and tried to cram jokes and geeky references into every strip that xkcd became bad. These days, the comic does little except pander to an audience of self-proclaimed nerds.
With that in mind, this is not a bad comic. Sure, I could nitpick it all day: The graph doesn't match the chart, "%" is an awful Y-axis label, the IV tubes lead to the ground, who the heck knows what they're sitting on, and holy balls but the art is ugly in the (largely superfluous) last panel. But that doesn't matter! The crucial thing to note is that this is a return to the old Randall and the old xkcd. It's just the outlet of a guy who doesn't understand the world, so he copes by framing it with math. Even the title text supports this, as it's a reference to one of his first comics. Today's comic strip isn't for anyone but Randall.
Yes, some comic strips are supposed to be funny. We turn to them every day for humor, and can be excused for being outraged when the author tries to be "serious." Remember how, three years ago, Ctrl-Alt-Del had a storyline about a miscarriage? People were appalled, and rightfully so. You don't just get to talk about personal stuff whenever you feel like it, especially not after six years of humor! Webcomics are a source of humor, not a soapbox.
But that's the crucial point of distinction between xkcd and most webcomics. Like I said before, xkcd began as a collection of Randall's thoughts and personal musings. That's its core, and that's when it was good. He didn't start out pandering to a particular audience; he wrote what was in his heart, and what came out ended up being alright. Popularity ruined Randall and it ruined xkcd.
So yes, at the end of the day, this strip is not funny. There's no joke, and the whole thing seems kind of thrown together. And yet, that's fine. It represents the original spirit of xkcd, before it was destroyed by an author who couldn't handle fame. I don't like this particular strip, as it doesn't really speak to me. But I do like that we get a glimpse of the old Randall, the one that first captured our interest so many years ago.
35 comments:
It's really wonderful that Rob can pull proper hate out of his hat when it's needed. Because I would have been very disappointed if this was there instead, especially because reboot pussed out too.ReplyDelete
Captcha: penses ... oh god Freud, why do you taunt me so!!?
"irrelevant babbling to fill space"ReplyDelete
that's my MOTTO baby
anyway fuck you rob I was going to reuse the introduction to my one for the next oneReplyDelete
in fact I probably still will :3
Hey, screw you Capn! I don't see YOUR hateblog anywhere. It's all just opinion anyway, and if you don't like it just don't read it.ReplyDelete
I don't have the desire to start a hateblog. Just enough desire to make snide remarks on hateblogs.ReplyDelete
You forgot the other two links, Capn. Get it right, will you?ReplyDelete
So...what's the deal with "reboot" being hosted at capnsblag.blogspot.com if you're not affiliated with it?ReplyDelete
Kitten is the doppelganger troll.ReplyDelete
Actually, me, Raven, kitten, and ALT-F are basically the same person.
Don't forget Abdel.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousApril 5, 2011 at 6:24 PM
nono, I am part of the Rob/Randall continuum. That's why Kitten could never properly be my doppleganger.ReplyDelete
Admit it, I was the best doppelganger you ever had.ReplyDelete
- TheMesosadeApril 5, 2011 at 7:36 PM
The only reason why Raven couldn't be Kitten's doppelganger is because there's only room in this town for one Rob. Literally.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousApril 5, 2011 at 8:06 PM
You know it will always just be me. [/alt]ReplyDelete
- AnonymousApril 5, 2011 at 9:18 PM
Sooooo... 881 was about acne?ReplyDelete
- Another AnonymousApril 5, 2011 at 9:35 PM
Honestly... I thought 881 was pretty well done. It was on topic for the site (math), and it addressed a problem that in fact exists (articles that don't understand statistics). It even made sense for there to be 20 panels of jellybean colors.ReplyDelete
I guess this is not a very good "xkcd sucks" comment.
In 882, it doesn't make sense for the the scientists to be testing green jellybeans specifically in the 2nd panel.ReplyDelete
- UndercoverCuddlefishApril 5, 2011 at 9:56 PM
i am pretty sure my comment on the last post was better than any of this bullshitReplyDelete
- AnonymousApril 5, 2011 at 10:00 PM
Noone cares.ReplyDelete
I always do.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousApril 5, 2011 at 10:06 PM
Randall's taking a correspondence course on statistics.ReplyDelete
- kichampApril 5, 2011 at 10:15 PM
Haha that media sure is wacky, right, guys?ReplyDelete
Seriously though, for anyone who ever complained about high-school level math references, basic statistics time! Alright!
Surprise! Randall changed it. Here is the original. http://www.webcitation.org/5xjZxoJZrReplyDelete
- AnonymousApril 6, 2011 at 12:16 AM
I'm glad I'm not the only one who was reminded of CTRL-ATL-DEL 's foray into stuff I don't read anymore...ReplyDelete
- AnonymousApril 6, 2011 at 1:10 AM
"'Gamer 2k4' or whatever"- I completely respect your post.ReplyDelete
I enjoy xkcd, but I also completely agree with your insights listed eloquently in this review of "Probability"- this is Randall's stuff, the essence of his work, and it's from this that he derives the best material (worthy of its popularity). It isn't "shit shit shit shit" (such useless and lackluster descriptions serve only to single out the lowlifes-seeking-for-attention-from-a-god-forsaken-audience), and the meticulously annoying Megan jokes, nitpicky comments on drawings and graphs (it's a webcomic, it's based on STICK FIGURES) are irrelevant and can be overlooked; this particular comic is here to convey a message. It does so, perhaps without the poise of Randall's initial doodles and sketches, but with a life of its own nevertheless. Your response to it, on the other hand, was respectful and thoughtful, something that doesn't seem to be a popular paradigm on this site.
To the rest of you reviewers, readers... No, xkcd is not as good as it once was. I agree with that particular basis which seems to be the fundamental theme of this site. What I don't understand is how a couple grown men and women, instead of promoting actual causes out in the real world, can bear to sit there and think to themselves "How can I criticize Randall's work today?", proceeding thereafter to write paragraphs upon paragraphs, daily- unceasingly, even- wasting away hours that can be spent more productively elsewhere... And as I read (maybe once or twice a year) this site, I notice a downward trend... Have you writers of tirades become hypocrites? Do you not find your countless tiring criticisms redundant? Are we supposed to believe that, outside of your precious xkcd criticisms, you lead action-packed lives, your supermodel girlfriends making sweet love to you every night? (What would you talk about, what hobbies would you people have in common with others? - 'oh yes I'm Rob, yes hello, I delight upon posting blogs on the internet pertaining to the utter destruction of a certain webcomic I despise beyond anything else in the world, what's your name? Wait, where are you going? Come back! I want you to at least see my blog!')
At the very least, respect that thousands of people visit xkcd frequently. I wonder how many of them contributed to a charity after reading this comic? I did; a few of my friends did (I'd be surprised if we were the only ones...) Meanwhile, congratulations on all your helpful donations to various causes; I'm sure homeless Joe really appreciates your countless hours spent keeping up this blog- skinny Vick too;
God damn DO something with your fucking time. And at the risk of calling the kettle black, I will take my fucking leave of this site.
mostly what I talk about are bikes, films, music, and writing. and I'm not saying the life of a bike courier is action-packed, but I am saying I've probably come a lot closer to dying in the course of day-to-day living than you have in the past six months. given that you measure human worth based on how much money people give to charitable causes, I'd say it's probably more interesting than your life!ReplyDelete
also, while money isn't exactly flowing out of my orifices, I do try to give to various causes where possible--artistic, political, or whatever--and I've been known to give spare change to the homeless people that congregate outside Safeway from time to time.
I mean, to say nothing of the time when I was actually a professional activist.
but yeah, I mean. I don't really talk about myself much, but I pretty much never bring up XKCD or this blog in conversation, except either here or on the IRC channel, or if it's relevant.
it usually isn't.
- AnonymousApril 6, 2011 at 2:36 AM
Artless art, a discussion of the powerlessness in the the face of hard reality, a display of the truth of the human condition. What's not to like?ReplyDelete
rob- a 'professional' activist?ReplyDelete
you mean a paid WHINER amirite?
this site makes so much sense now
- AnonymousApril 6, 2011 at 4:11 AM
I thought that 881 was talking about the statistics of condoms working and that they were fucking at the end. Then you guys ruined it.ReplyDelete
Rob campaigned for these guys:ReplyDelete
- Another AnonymousApril 6, 2011 at 8:26 AM
I meant 882, not 881 in my post back there. Noone still cares.ReplyDelete
I still always do. er.ReplyDelete
CAPTCHA: ourattic. We're thinking of converting it.
- AnonymousApril 6, 2011 at 4:47 PM
I really like how there's complaining on the one hand that Randall is pandering to the crowd rather than just posting whatever he wants on the internet without caring who likes it --- and whining that he's doing exactly that right now.ReplyDelete
I really like how cuddlefish present false dichotomies like its some sort of wise revelation.ReplyDelete
Captcha: masencon, all of these guest posts
- AnonymousApril 7, 2011 at 11:44 AM
Excited anyone?


text:
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He is employed by Day Audi in Monroeville.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Can Zorilla Overtake the Gabe connection?
Chris O'Meara / AP
Wow, No Tampa Bay Rays baseball until 10 pm tonight. I am not sure what I am going to do with myself because the shows I want to watch also come on at 10 pm. Maybe a split screen will work, but then I might get confused and think that Tommy Gavin ( Denis Leary ) is playing DH for the Rays. Sorry, I am not going to get confused by that, but there are some thing that recently have hit the papers, internet and also the radio waves that have me scratching my head a bit. They might not matter to 3/4's of the country, but they matter to us down here in Rays-ville.
I mean we have a few questions, and I am thinking of putting on my special World Series game used Rays cap and try and figure out some of the possible answers. I think I am going to play on my mind's thought right now and throw out a few examples and also maybe a suggestion as to our outfield situation and see what bubbles up to the surface here. So I am about to pop the old World Series cap given to me off the head of a Rays back-up and see what transpires, or even communicates itself to my little mind. They say that objects like this can store up energy and stored thoughts, hopefully they have garnered some baseball thoughts that can help me evolve this problem into a solution,or at least a wishful thought.
Let's get into the meat of this right field outfield quagmire. We might have a more of a problem if B J Upton's bum quad does need more down time. But hopefully we will not have to again do the Curly Shuffle to put the Two Gabes' out there at the same time. I want to go on record as telling everyone that the Two Gabe's can not play in the field at the same time. I think they both have ample ability to play in an MLB outfield, but with them both out there it opens a huge gaping wound in the Rays speed and agility in the center field and right side of the stadium. If Upton is down for any length of time, this three-headed monster will have to adjust and put a member of it into center field for awhile. But which one of the three Amigos would make the best fit if this situation rears its ugly head?
If you even saw an inning of the game on Sunday, you saw the massive drop off of even closing range speed on hard hit fly balls even into the shallow gaps in the outfield. Combine that with neither of them wanting to shout out, or even call balls in the air, and you get both of them falling to the turf ala Rays 1999-style. The good thing in all of that is that Gabe Kapler did catch the ball and it did not dribble to the wall or fall from his mitt after the collision. But can we forget the base running mishaps by both of the Gabes' this year that have cost this team runs. I know we are going to be super aggressive as a team this year, but to openly show your lack of concentration in plays in scoring position actually puts you in a bad light. They were moves that defied logic, but they will end up on someone's Rays gag reel this season.
Both Gabe has their positives. Kapler brings an energy and a leadership that will spark the Rays they way Eric Hinske did in 2008. But he has lost a step or two from the Kapler that used to fling his body everywhere in the Boston outfield years ago in the Trop. But his bat might be waking up, and that would be a huge up-side for the Rays. I will never question his commitment to this team, but he has to also finally admit to himself he is not the same player and has limitations now. But he is a good outfielder, but his arm and his closing speed on fly balls had dropped off in the last few years. He is not a liability as long as his average is creeping towards the Mendoza Line and above.
Now on to Gabe Gross. There is no question in my mind that he can, and will make a difference in this right field. The problem right now is that he seems to be a bit confused as to his role. He knows he is the swing guy on this platoon, but he also seems to be looking over his shoulder for Ben Zobrist to maybe steal his thunder and job soon. That might actually happen at some point this season. For the last year Gross has been the rocket arm for the Rays getting outfield assists because the American League questioned his true arm strength, but after posting some impressing plays to gun down people like Ichiro at third base, his arm is a true asset to the Rays. But is his offensive number going to compare this year?
That is s huge question. Last season he matched the Rays single season record for Walk-off RBIs, with 3 for the year, including his first home run off a leftie ( Matt Thorton / Chicago White Sox). For him to remain a vital part of this Rays team he has to again spark that second set of the lineup and get his average going northbound. Fans are already calling for Matt Joyce from Triple-A to supplant one of the two Gabes' in this offense. That day will come. I can see one of them either being DFA'd or even traded after June 1st, but the Rays have to stay with their choice for now. But unlike some teams, they also have another option in the outfield.
Mike Carlson / AP
Joe Maddon is crazy about Ben Zobrist as a player, person and as a plug-in anywhere in the field for the team. He has grown so much in the last year in the organization's eyes as a utility player. But he is also beginning to grow out of that role and might make it difficult for the team to leave him off the field in 2009. Take for example his playing time early on here in 2009. He had made play after play in right field, including an outfield assist in his start in Baltimore. He is growing more confident and secure in the outfield for the Rays, even in center field. I would not be surprised if he get the starting nod tonight in Seattle if the team decides to rest Upton for another day or two. But it is not like Zobirst is a one-hit wonder, he has been building himself and his playing time up in the last two years because of his versatility and abilities.
He is the one guy on this squad, which includes the hidden talents of Willy Aybar that has gone unnoticed as a limited role player for the Rays. But no matter what you think of his playing talents on the field, his hitting ability has gone through the roof since his 2007 days for the Rays. In that season he hit .158 in less than 100 at bats for the team. And in that time he only hit 3 extra base hits, which included a single home run. But after an injury in Spring Training in 2008, it seemed that Zobrist finally came into himself since we got him in that trade in Houston that also brought us pitcher Mitch Talbot, and jettisoned Aubrey Huff to the Astros. We forget he spent only 18 games in Triple-A before the Rays brought him up in 2006. But between then and now he has grown leaps and bounds, especially at the plate.
If you take 2008 as his break-out year in the eyes of the Rays, you might be correct. He had been high on their radar for several years, but showed an extra gear in 2008 when he finally came up for good and hit .252 for the season in 62 games. But that is not the stat that impressed and also endeared him to Rays Manager Joe Maddon. Before 2008, he was basically only thought about in the infield situation and roles, but in that year he blossomed out into the grasses of the outfield and made his mark bigger on the team. He might have only had one outfield assist compared to Gross's five, but it was the quality of play that inspired Maddon and his staff to give him more time out there. But if it was not his extreme improvement in his outfield play, his bat might have been the deciding factor.
In 2008, his bat came alive. His .253 average might not show this fact, but his extra power and also ability to cause some chaos on the base paths did not go unnoticed by the team. He made 13 starts in the outfield in 2008, which was on surpassed by his 32 games at shortstop during Jason Bartlett's injury. He had made his name a force in the outfield discussions for the Rays. His bat came out of nowhere this year and stuck in the minds of Rays fans and coaches. He hit two Grand Slams, the first in Baltimore on August 29th and another in Yankee Stadium on September 13th in the nightcap of a doubleheader. And add on his 12 homers in 2008 came on only 198 plate appearances.
The Rays had found a bench power option who could also play every day in the outfield. But Zobrist put the finishing touches on 2008 by hitting three homers in the season ending series in Detroit. So let's just pop out his finishing numbers for a second here, 12 homers, 30 RBI's and 25 walks in less than 200 plate appearances. Tampa Bay had finally found their hidden gem, and their outfield " can do" guy.
And his 2008 is beginning to look like another added chapter to this great story. We have only played in 13 games, but already Zobrist has appeared in 9 contests and gone to the plate 26 times for the Rays. He is boasting a .308 average with 5 extra base hits, three of them for homers. His 9 RBI's is currently tied for 26th in the American League, and he is a back-up player. So you can probably read my mind here on the future of Zobrist with the Rays. My only concern right now is if we do move him into a more constant role in the outfield, will be leave the infield vulnerable to injury or even understaffed. ( Hint: We currently have Adam Kennedy at Triple-A )
Why not play Zobrist in any spot where you need a bat and an able player. Seriously, players have made great careers having the versatility and abilities of Zobrist's style. He is grounded, confident and totally committed to doing things "The Rays Way." If you ever see the camera panning the dugout, he is always up near the coaches probably easedropping on their conversations to learn more and more about the way they want this team to run on all its cylinders. I am thinking he might just be that extra gear, or even the NO2 that could move this team upward this year. So you have to ask yourself if he could fit into this platoon method that the team is trying to institute in right field this year.
I actually think he is a huge upgrade over the current right field players, and could supplant either of them in a heartbeat. He has shown the effort and the stamina to dive for balls, make the difficult play, and proved himself at the plate. Oh, by the way, I forgot to mention above that he hit his third Grand Slam last week against the White Sox as a pinch-hitter. You want to talk about pressure situation……there is your kettle banging moment. But in the end, it is not my decision or any other bloggers as to the future of Zobrist. But here is something most people have forgotten about him.
He is totally inter-changeable wit
h either Gross or Kapler. He can play, and has proven it in 2009. Oh, and forget all that rightie-leftie match-up garbage with him. He is a switch hitter who is plowing the ball at a .400 clip from the left side this season, with an .800 Slugging Percentage so far this year. Right field was a main concern of the Rays before Spring Training. They gave Joyce every chance to change their minds, and also saw some great things for the future in his 5 games with the team before getting moved to Triple-A. But my choice for an everyday right fielder is no secret. I will give either of the Gabe connection some more time to show their want and desire to stay here, but a decision will be made at some point this year concerning them, why not make it early so they can hook onto another team.
Joyce might be the future, but Zobrist is making a huge play to be the present guy to bring this team some needed wins and offensive moments based on his offensive tear in 2008. Can Gross's .136 average with no extra bases and a lone RBI be the key to the team's ultimate decision. Or could Kapler's .173, with only 3 doubles be his ticket to the bench. The Rays are in a pickle offensively right now. They are hitting .266 as a team with a league leading 109 strikeouts. Could the injection of some positive Zobrist energy and play be the ticket, or will the current tandem, who went 2 for 13 in the recent White Sox series, with no RBI's or runs scored for the Rays. Oh, by the way, Zobrist went 4 for 6 , with 6 RBI's in that series. Can the choice be any easier right now?
12 Comments
Sounds like you make a good argument for using Zobrist. I think the two Gabes might be related to some of the players on the O's. They seemed to have problems making decisions on who would catch the ball this past weekend in Boston.
You know Julia,
That Orioles outfield went through a transition this off season to become a great unit. But beside Nick Markakis and Adam Jones having time in the outfield last year, they are new to each others tendencies and moves on the field. But the real concern to me is the silent treatment Jones gives for most balls in the air.
He should be yelling to the heaven to clear out people to make plays, not scampering up and then playing keep away with his infielders and fellow outfielders.
And Felix Pie is just getting used to his locker, much less the moves of Jones and the infielder since coming over from the Chicago Cubs. That outfield could be a major reason they win or lose games this year.
Rays Renegade
You should have been a lawyer, Renegade. Your compelling case for Zobrist would have swayed this juror! Good job!
You have no idea how close I was to doing just that, but the $ 30,000 a year tuition kind of set me down another path.
I have no problem fighting for something I believe in, and "In Zobrist I trust."
Besides, I am only probably saying what most people in the Rays fan base are thinking at this moment ( hopefully) .
Anyways Jane, my father said " I was a kid of many talents of many talents, and none of them take the lead."
Rays Renegade
Just want to say that I love Rescue Me! I know it doesn't have a lot to do with your post… but I always debate watching the end of the Angels game or the start of Rescue Me on Tuesday nights!
There is not enough credit given to guys like Gross who may feel the heat of losing their position but still go out and do what they have to do. I know everyone says they are professionals, but you try having someone take your position and see how well you do!
You know they do have a replay on Friday night at 11 pm EST, I am not sure what time that is on the west coast……….7 pm?
I have been a big Denis Leary fan for years, well since his comedy specials days.
I have even done the split screen with the game in the lower half of the TV.
Rays Renegade
I know that feeling real well.
I fought it for two years before finally breaking out and playing 16 games at my position in Indy.
And I do know the gut busting reality of not playing anymore after having two discs in my neck go bye bye.
I do not wish it on anyone, but the reality of sports is change. You can be the best for only so long before the "new" best shows up and kick you down a notch or away from sight.
I think the world of Gross too, but sometimes you have to make opinions and show a different path.
It is only my opinion, and not Joe Maddon's or Andrew Friedman's. But I do have a point.
Rays Renegade
Well, if Zobrist keeps hitting like that, he won't leave Maddon with much of a choice. He'll have to put him in the lineup everyday. Do you think it's just a matter of a lack of experience, that the organization feels as though they know what they're getting out of the two Gabes, but that Zobrist has yet to prove himself at the major league level? I know he had a breakout season last year, but 62 games is kind of a small sample size. Or do the Rays just value Zobrist more as a utility man and are hesitant to put him in an everyday role? -Erinhttp://plunking-gomez.mlblogs.com
I think you hit the nail on the head with the Rays not comfortable with moving him totally out of their comfort zone as a super utility guy.
But things change, and people get themselves in better situations.
I know they started him in right field the first night in Seattle, and he did great. In one inning, all three putouts went to him.
Rays Renegade
What? Who knew the Rays were taking hitting notes from the swing-at-everything D'backs? Competition at a position usually makes everyone better… maybe they should just pick one and stick with it for a while.
Jeff, that would give someone like me nothing to write about if they made a pick and stood by it.
I am not sure what is going on with the offense, but at least the defense is solid and not breaking down at all.
They are being a bit more aggressive in the outfield and it is going to bite them, but that is the way they want to play it this year.
Rays Renegade


text:
Don't miss what it has to offer
Just to the east of Eureka Springs, the city of Berryville offers something unique for visitors.
The Saunders Museum, located just off the Public Square, houses an amazing collection of historic guns and other items from the frontier period.
Dominating the Square is the Heritage Center Museum, with exhibits dedicated to the city's history. The third story preserves the courtroom, which dates back to the 1880s.
Antique shops and a variety of restaurants surround the Square.
For those who need a little workout after being trapped in the car too long, the beautiful new Community Center offers day passes for visitors, who can use exercise equipment, an indoor track, or swim some laps in the indoor pool.
An information center on the east side of town has lots more information on the area, and a city-operated RV Park is located behind the welcome center.
And don't miss Cosmic Cavern, just a few miles north of Berryville. The cave tour will delight the entire family.


text:
Hornets jump on Wolves early
The Bryant Hornets hosted the Lake Hamilton Wolves on Senior Night at Hornet Stadium and didn't disappoint the Hornet fans. Bryant took down Lake Hamilton easily 49-14 in 7A/6A South conference play and scored 28 points in the first quarter to jump on the Wolves early.
The Hornets (7-2, 5-1 South) took the kickoff as sophomore KJ Hill returned it 20 yards to the 25-yard line. Senior running back Jalen Bell (concussion) got his first action since Week 4 and took his first carry 8 yards, and senior quarterback Hayden Lessenberry hooked up with junior tight end Dalton Griesemer for 28 yards, which was Griesemer's first catch of the year. Two plays later, Lessenberry found KJ Hill behind the secondary for a 40-yard touchdown pass and 7-0 Hornets' lead with 10:43 left in the first quarter.
The Wolves fumbled on the kickoff return and senior Hornet linebacker Stony Stevens recovered the ball at the Lake Hamilton 8-yard line. Two plays later, Lessenberry ran it in from 5 yards out to make it 14-0 with just over two minutes gone in the ballgame.
Lake Hamilton went three-and-out and it took just two plays again for the the Hornets to score. Lessenberry hit sophomore receiver Brushawn Hunter wide open in the middle of the field for a 71-yard bomb to put Bryant up 21-0 at the 8:06 point of the first quarter.
"They've got people injured, they turned the ball over and we got on them early," Bryant Coach Paul Calley said.
Another three-and-out by the Wolves forced a punt, but Hornet senior punt returner Aaron Bell tried to pick the ball up with defenders around and lost it for a turnover and giving the Wolves excellent field position at the Bryant 32-yard line.
"We should of put it away," Calley said about the fumble. "We should have had them 28-0, but we turned the ball over. That's the kind of stuff if you're playing a good football team, it'll get you beat, but we can get away with it and that scares me."
Calley was referencing the fact that the Hornets haven't played the best of teams the past four weeks. Bryant has beat its last four opponents by an average margin of 47.8-12.0, and the lack of competition isn't preparing the Hornets for the state tournament.
"It's good to win, it's great to get a win," Calley said. "I don't want to sound like I'm not appreciative, but we've gone four weeks without a test. One test in five weeks is not going to help us when we get to the state playoffs."
One play after the turnover, Wolves' running back Hunter Lipton ran 32 yards up the middle for a touchdown to get Lake Hamilton within 21-7 with 6:00 left in the opening quarter.
The Hornets weren't done scoring though as they didn't pass the ball at all using a 9-play, 37-yard drive capped by a Lessenberry 2-yard TD run to make it 28-7 with 2:33 left in the quarter.
Lake Hamilton punted on its next possession and the Hornets took over at their own 35-yard line. Bryant went to the air this time as Lessenberry hit Hill for 20 yards on two passes and after Hunter ran 9 yards to get to the Wolves' 35-yard line, the Hornets gave the Wolves a little trickery as senior receiver Austin Powell took a handoff from Lessenberry, who ran out for a pass, and Powell hit him for 17 yards on the left side for a first down. Lessenberry would find senior tight end Nate Rutherford on the next play to the left side for an 18-yard TD where Rutherford carried tacklers into the end zone from the 5-yard line. The score gave the Hornets a 35-7 lead with 7:46 left in the half.
"He has been really on the last couple of games, but we haven't really been tested," Calley said of Lessenberry.
Lake Hamilton turned it over on downs after a 14-play, 46-yard drive, but it only took two plays for Lessenberry to pick up his sixth TD of the half. After finding senior receiver Devonte Howard for 24 yards, Lessenberry found Hunter again, this time covered fairly well, in the left corner of the end zone for 29-yard TD pass and 42-7 Bryant lead with 1:12 left in the half.
Aaron Bell would pick off Nathan Sawrie on the Wolves first play of their series to give the ball back to Bryant, but Lessenberry would throw an interception for his only flaw of the game. Lessenberry finished 10 for 10 for 235 yards, four touchdowns and an interception. He also ran 6 times for 26 yards and two TDs, and caught one pass for 17 yards giving him 278 total yards for the game, all in the first half. In the past two games, Lessenberry is 24 of 25 for 386 yards and five TDs.
With the clock running the entire second half due to the sportsmanship rule (team leading by 35 points), both teams scored a TD in the second half. Bryant backup quarterback Brandan Warner was 4 of 4 for 52 yards in his first drive capping the drive off with a 19-yard TD pass to Howard to give Bryant a 49-7 lead. Warner would finish 5 of 7 for 62 yards and a TD. Hunter finished with 3 catches for 109 yards and two TDs, Hill had 3 receptions for 60 yards and a TD and Howard had 2 catches for 43 yards and a TD. The Hornets outgained the Wolves 411 to 190 in total yardage.
Bryant will play its regular-season finale on Thursday in El Dorado to face the three-time defending 6A champion Wildcats.
"I expect that to be a test, I truly do," Calley said. "but not having to play four quarters in a month, I still don't know what kind of condition we're in, I don't know how we're going to handle it. We go from the last 10 years having to scrap, fight tooth and nail just to get a victory."


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As I made my way across a field of raked cornstalks with the baler a couple of weeks ago, it was going quite well. The stalks were bone dry, the wind was quite brisk and I was getting a bale made, wrapped and dumped every 69 seconds. This was productivity at its finest. I was about halfway across the field and had about half the raked portion of the field left to bale. This year my goal was to make 600 bales to use as feed for my beef cows and bedding for my feedlot cattle over the winter. My bale counter showed I had just made my 530th bale of stalks. The end was literally in sight just 10 or 12 rounds away.
Then my baler suddenly stopped. When this happens, it can mean a couple of different things. The big drive chain running from top to bottom on the side of the baler could be busted, which would cease all operations. We had just replaced it the day before, though, and normally get at least 500 to 1,000 bales out of a new chain before replacing it. This one had less than a hundred bales on it, so that shouldn't be the problem. I shut the PTO off and then quickly flicked it on again to see if the pickup attachment moved, indicating a rock may have gotten stuck in it. No movement whatsoever. A rock will at least make it flex a little bit. That was not good. It left the other major potential problem. A bearing on a roll may have gone out.
I hopped out of the cab and was immediately greeted by the smell of scorched rubber. Sure enough, a bearing had gone out and a roll had busted. So close to being done, and rain in the forecast for the next day, and now I had to make another trip to Decorah to get the bearing fixed.
Small problem, though. There was smoke coming from the baler. It started as a small wisp as I got out of the tractor, but it grew to cloud quality in seconds. It was also accompanied by an orange glow in the bale chamber.
I did some quick mental math. I was in the middle of the field, with a 20- to 30-mph south wind, with dozens of other bales scattered across the field. All I could think of was the flames reaching the windrow, thereby lighting a multiple-mile fuse of neatly arranged stalks, or getting blown to the other bales in the field, each of which would be a mini-mushroom cloud as they ignited.
I had an idea. Why not drive the baler up to the road, thereby making it easier to access for the fire trucks? That would keep the fire out of my field, keep my bales from burning or getting soaked with water from a fire truck, and if all else failed, the road would maybe provide a buffer zone to fight the fire. Plus, worst-case scenario, the wind would at least blow the flames across the road into another guy's field.
Ladies and gentleman, I believe it was the great philosopher David Letterman who said, "There is no OFF position on the genius switch!"
All the while this is going on, I was on my phone trying to contact Guy No. 1, who was at the other end of the field in the combine . . . with the fire extinguishers. First call, no answer. Second call, no answer. Third call, no answer. Fourth call, no answer. Then he started heading my way in a big hurry. I was near the road by then and began to calmly and routinely unhook the baler, disconnecting the hydraulic hoses, the PTO, the hitch pin and all the other cables on the baler. The flames weren't that bad yet, but I could tell it wasn't going to be good. We got the fire extinguisher and sprayed the flaming area of the baler. It had zero effect and the fire wasn't very big at all. That's when Guy No. 1 and I had a very calm, quickie board meeting and decided I should be the one to call 911. He's not a talker. That's putting it mildly.
A few minutes later, we could hear sirens and saw lots and lots of flashing lights coming from the west. At the peak of the inferno, I decided to whip out my cell phone and snag a keepsake photo for posterity. The top photo was taken within a minute of when I had unhooked from the baler. All I heard afterwards was, "You took the time to jack it up and unhook everything! Ya didn't just pull the pin and drive away?"
No. That would be irresponsible.
Altogether, I believe six trucks showed up for the event. They got the fire out and hosed down the bale I had kicked out of the bale chamber when I got near the road. A couple trucks drove down into the field and a couple of them stayed on the road. One, incidentally, showed up late and came from a different direction. The guys got out of the truck and immediately began swearing at their GPS unit. (I had given the 911 dispatcher the two numbers of the street and avenue at the intersection where the fire was located in the field, because it wasn't close to any of our building sites.) This particular truck apparently has a Little Miss Can't Be Wrong GPS unit to give them directions when there's no name or building address involved.
The baler was a total loss. Try not to choke on the irony here, but my favorite Deere salesman, whose voice-mail greeting says, "This is Honest RC, The Farmer's Friend From Beginning To End," had been out to look at the baler the day before. We had asked about trading it off for a new one for next season. Turns out Honest RC was on the phone with Guy No. 1 closing the deal when I was trying to call for help. RC told me later, "Roger and I were just getting done and all of a sudden he says, 'Uh-oh. I think we have a bale on fire, Dick.' Then he paused and said, 'Uhhhhhh, no, it's a baler.'"
Guy No. 1 finds text messages to be too wordy.
Within minutes of all the fire truck excitement, and even before they left the scene, my phone rang. It was the Deere dealership's number. I answered with my standard greeting of, "Hello, this is Jeff."
It was Mike, the service manager, on the other end. "Is this Jeff 'Scorch' Ryan?"
Well, so much for keeping this incident quiet!
Mike said he understood I may be in need of a baler and probably didn't finish baling for the day right at the end of the last windrow. A loaner baler was available and they would either send it up to me or we could come and pick it up. I told them to get it on its way. Honest RC showed up about an hour later and I was back to baling within two hours of the original problem. Believe me when I say that RC's voice-mail greeting is dead on.
After dark, I got the skid loader and headed up to the scene of the crime to drag the baler carcass out of the mud hole that had been created by the tanker truck's contents. The tire on the downwind side had melted in the blaze, but the one on the upwind side was in good shape. I sort of wanted to get the carcass removed, seeing as how it was pretty close to the highway and a breeze all night long could not be good. I dragged the carcass ahead a few yards to dry ground and planned to return to put a replacement tire on the carcass and get it out of there without leaving a trail by dragging it on its rim. First, I had to feed cattle.
As I was in the middle of feeding cattle around 9:00, my phone rang again. Guy No. 1 wanted to inform me, "There's a ball of flame in the field again. It looks big. You must have churned up some sparks when you moved the baler."
Perhaps. Did you call 911 already?
I see. So you just wanted to call and let me know the field is on fire, because I'm probably a one-digit speed dial for you, whereas 911 requires the pushing of THREE buttons!?!? So, do you want ME to call 911?
"Yeah, I suppose."
I dialed up the number and got the same dispatcher as before. "This is Jeff Ryan. My baler has reignited again. It's the same spot as before."
"Okay, I'll let them know."
I was in the middle of chores, so I decided it would be wise to finish feeding the cows rather than leave them hungry, thereby giving them a reason to go through a fence if I left to watch another blaze, and then creating a traffic disaster when they would spill onto Highway 9, looking for feed. By the time I had them fed (and securely quiet), I hopped on the four-wheeler to head to the scene of The Towering Inferno II. The trucks were already leaving as I pulled up. The firefighters didn't even stop to chat with me or give me any more static. Turns out their annual pancake supper was that night, so they barely got done with my first blaze in time to get back to flip flapjacks before heading back to splash me again.
I did a little fire marshal work at the scene. All around the baler carcass were crunchy cornstalks. Not a sign of fire anywhere. Zero. At the site of the bale carcass I had dumped before, though, was a whole new area of scorched earth. It was a much bigger area than before, so I was pretty sure the second fire had nothing to do with the baler and everything to do with the remnants of the bale fire. Looked to me like maybe some embers must have smoldered in that incredibly tight, extremely well-made bale.
On my next baler, I don't want the pressure gauge to be one of those standard-issue ones with a green, yellow and red range from low to high. I want it to run from "Boring" to "Full of Adventure!"
Guy No. 2


text:
MissionTo mobilize men to use their strength for creating cultures free from violence, especially men's violence against women.
Vision To institutionalize primary prevention of men's violence against women through sustained initiatives that generate positive, measurable outcomes in populations throughout the world.
Men Can Stop Rape seeks to mobilize men to use their strength for creating cultures free from violence, especially men's violence against women. In 1997, the founders of Men Can Stop Rape pioneered a different way of addressing the epidemic of violence against women. Though the majority of violent acts against women are committed by men, the vast majority of prevention efforts are risk-reduction and self-defense tactics directed at women. The founders wanted to shift the responsibility of deterring harm away from women by promoting healthy, nonviolent masculinity. Their vision offered a plan for prevention that outlines positive, proactive solutions to engaging men as allies, inspiring them to feel motivated and capable to end men's violence against women.
More than a decade later, Men Can Stop Rape continues to mentor male youth and successfully mobilize them to prevent men's violence against women and other men; inspire young men to create their own positive definitions of masculinity, manhood, and strength; develop healthy relationships with others; embrace the concept of personal responsibility; work in partnership with female peers; and do their part to end violence and build safe communities. Men Can Stop Rape has grown tremendously in capacity and scope – inspiring a new generation of leaders for change across the country. The young men come to understand the complex ways that stereotypical notions of race, gender, and sexual orientation can restrict definitions of masculinity, and how creating broader, more equitable definitions benefit both themselves and other women and girls.
Check out our latest campaign!Bundles also available!


text:
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Death Gate, Gate of Hell:
Shield trigger (When this spell is put into your hand from your shield zone, you may cast it for no cost.)
* Destroy one of your opponent's untapped creatures. You may put a non-evolution creature with a cost less than the destroyed creature into the battle zone from your graveyard.
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text:
Silence & Noise Dress
Urban Outfitters BootsD&G Sunglasses
Notice: Gold Bracelet on my right hand flying off as I reach to tuck my hair back - and then me realizing the ocean swallowed it...don't worry, my friend jumped in after it. Anyway, this is Day 2 in California and so far it's been amazing. Went to the infamous Playhouse last night, had lunch at Gladstones today, and will be going to White Wonderland tonight! Busy Busy - hence the lack of posts!


text:
Item Description
Letter, J. J. I. [John J. Ingalls] to Dear Father [Elias T. Ingalls]
Author: Ingalls, John James
Date: October 24, 1858
After nearly two weeks in the territory, Ingalls was somewhat more optimistic about his prospects, and in this letter to his father, Elias Ingalls, John Ingalls wrote of the gold rush and his legal business, which "opens very well." but he was still weary of "social conditions," as there were no churches in Sumner and "a total disregard of the Sabbath." Atchison, where he had gone in a futile search for an Episcopal Church, was little better in this regard.
Location of Original: KSHS Call Number: John James Ingalls Collection, #177, Box 1, Folder 1
Item Number: 102031 Number of images: 4
Keywords: Atchison, Kansas Territory; Churches; Community life; Courts; Free state settlers; Ingalls, John James, 1833-1900; Lawsuits; Pikes Peak gold rush; Religion; Sumner, Kansas Territory; Weather
pg. 1
pg. 2
pg. 3
pg. 4


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How do I become a volunteer?
Please register using the online registration form.
What do I need to know in order to volunteer?
All you need to be is willing and able. We'll provide you with all the information and supplies that you need.
What do I get for volunteering?
On event day, each volunteer will be provided with a shirt, hot breakfast & coffee, snacks and drinks for throughout the event, and access to all of the athlete amenities at the post race carnival. There is also a special volunteer party with prizes, food, and drinks held about 1 week after the event.
How do I know what my assignment is?
The volunteer coordinator will contact you as the event approaches with information regarding your volunteer assignment and on when and where to go. Please keep in mind that volunteer assignments may change at the last minute if there is a critical need. However, we do our best to make sure you get the assignment you requested.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please email firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
Stan Gauss needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 72 designs submitted by 19 freelance designers.
LocalHabit.com Share your (Ad)vice!
LocalHabit.com provides local consumers the opportunity to find local business and information about them based on their habitat.
Remember: LocalHabit.com brings businesses 1 step closer to those consumers in their local habitats. Try bringing a community feel to the logo.
LocalHabit.com will reach consumers in every market in the US and Canada. Anyone looking for a plumber, beautician or to find the best place for a cheesesteak at midnight will use the site.
We are looking for an edgy but clean design. Something that transcends the words making people remember the site.
We want to make sure the word Habit and vice in (ad)vice stand out.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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You are hereHome ›
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Earth and space science
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In this fieldwork activity, students learn that when setting up a research design a system's boundaries are based on the question(s) a scientist wants to answer. Students ground truth, or validate, a pixel within a homogeneous area of a satellite... (View More) image and ask and answer questions related to their observations. Equipment needed to do this activity include a compass and camera. This is a learning activity associated with the GLOBE Land Cover/Biology investigations and is supported by the GLOBE Teacher's Guide, Land Cover/Biology. GLOBE (Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment) is a worldwide, hands-on, K-12 school-based science education program. (View Less)
Audience: Elementary school, Middle school, High school
Materials Cost: Over $20 per group of students
Materials Cost: Over $20 per group of students


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National market update
Existing-Home Sales Stall in August, Prices Moderate
WASHINGTON (September 21, 2015) — Following three straight months of gains, existing–home sales dipped in August despite slowing price growth and a positive turnaround in the share of sales to first–time buyers, according to the National Association of Realtors®. None of the four major regions experienced sales increases in August.
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Closing Process Changes: What To Expect
New mortgage disclosure rules will take effect Oct. 3, and lenders and real estate brokerages are quickly preparing for what has been predicted to be big changes to home closings.
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The homeownership rate in the second quarter 2015 was 63.4 percent, down 1.3 (+/- 0.4) percentage points from the second quarter 2014 rate of 64.7 percent. The homeownership rates in the Northeast, Midwest, South and West were lower than the rates in the second quarter 2014.
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Sales of new single-family houses in August 2015 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 552,000. This is 5.7 percent (+/- 16.2%)* above the revised July 2015 estimate of 522,000.
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text:
Was the equalizer removed? It's no longer available on the Play screen. I have RC, VIS, the repeat button, and the star button.
I really miss the equalizer. My car's EQ is not sufficient.
Madevil wrote:hi there,
did you use any other Equalizer App or other ROM included EQ Settings. I test this on many roms and phones without problems.
best regards
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text:
Telluride at Dartmouth: Le Havre
This post is the last in my chronicle of attending the Telluride at Dartmouth program at the Hopkins Center for the Arts. Days 1 & 2 (A Dangerous Method and Albert Nobbs) can be found here, Day 3 (We Need to Talk About Kevin) can be found here, and Day 4 (In Darkness) can be found here.
The final film of the six shown in the Telluride at Dartmouth program was Le Havre, written and directed by Aki Kaurismäki. (As I expected, I wasn't able to get over to Hanover for The Kid with the Bike, alas.) It was a good choice for a concluding film because the program had been, overall, rather bleak -- enjoyable, powerful, illuminating, but seldom uplifting. Le Havre is a fairy tale and a feel-good movie, one that tackles terrifying and complex subjects whimsically and is so determined to finish on a good note that everybody's ending is a happy one. It's naive to the point of being Panglossian, but so darn nice about it that it seems churlish to complain. It's a tremendously enjoyable movie to sit through -- weird, funny, and full of scenes that will make you feel good about human generosity. It's the cinematic equivalent of "Kumbaya", but with more wit.
[Note that from here on, I'm going to talk about the whole film, including its ending(s). I don't think knowing how it all turns out will impede most people's enjoyment of the movie, because its tone from early on telegraphs that this is not a tragedy, but if you're the sort of person who hates to know anything about a movie's story no matter what, you should stop reading right now.]
Actually, what Le Havre really felt like to me was one of Hal Hartley's good movies, the kind he hasn't made since Henry Fool: odd, unpredictable, at least a bit silly, the sort of movie that revels in its own irony and artificiality, yet by the end somehow transforms all its irony into shameless sincerity, even sentimentality. Le Havre is the product of an utterly sentimental view of humanity, yet it isn't itself a particularly sentimental film, to my eyes, because it doesn't work very hard to wrench emotions out of us, or even insist on them. It just depicts an awful lot of nice, ordinary people being nice and ordinary to each other and to one particular stranger. Even cancer gets cured by the niceness.
The story is a simple one: An aging shoeshiner in Le Havre, France, Marcel Marx (played by André Wilms), happens upon an illegal immigrant, a boy from (if my memory is correct) Gabon named Idrissa (Blondin Miguel). Since Marcel's wife is in the hospital, he takes the boy in and shelters him from the security forces that are the primary antagonist of this story. The security forces are sent into motion by the insistence of Marx's busy-body neighbor, played by the great Jean-Pierre Léaud, and known, at least according to IMDB, as "The Denouncer". He is pretty much the only individual character who is never generous. He looks like Gargamel, in fact, and serves the same purpose in this community as Gargamel does in the world of The Smurfs: he's mean to nice people. Even the supposed-to-be-mean-because-it's-his-job police officer is actually a softie at heart.
All of this makes for a very genial movie, one where we can sympathize with the quirky individuals who make up the community of nice people in Le Havre and can feel superior to and horrified by the well-armed security forces in riot gear. The David & Goliath story is always appealing; indeed, I expect it can be traced back well before David and Goliath. There's also a racial component -- our kindly liberal hearts sing at the sight of all the good, mostly-white people who shelter the lost black boy.
The question that keep bouncing around in my head after seeing Le Havre is: should we be encouraged to feel so good about all this?
Migration is on the minds of Europe's filmmakers this year. Consider the excellent roundup of new films from or about Africans that Sean Jacobs put together at Africa is a Country -- the first group of films are all about migration. Whatever their various virtues or limitations, none of these movies seem to take as light an approach to the topic as Kaurismäki does with Le Havre.
Maybe the light approach is okay, even welcome. Maybe it helps us see the human questions at the heart of polarizing political and social problems. Maybe the thing we need right now is a fairy tale about community and generosity instead of ever more painfully realistic stories about the human costs. Maybe we need to dream about our potential to help each other. Maybe we need to believe that willpower will create miracles.
I'm not convinced, myself, but I'm a cynical old creature, and I have trouble seeing a film like Le Havre as anything other than a big lie that lets audiences feel good about something they should be horrified by. But that could just be the pessimist in me having a knee-jerk reaction to an endlessly optimistic story.
The craftsmanship of the film is undeniably strong -- the performances are affecting without ever seeming forced, the dialogue is witty and inventive, the pacing gentle but never dull. It's a film full of sly references to other films, and so in some way it's not even about the "real world" so much as it is about its own received/constructed reality, the reality of cinema. Yet Kaurismäki clearly wants us to think about the reality beyond the screen -- his characters are located in a specific place, time, and class; and there is a definite materiality to even the most absurd shots. Kaurismäki and cinematographer Timo Salminen tend often to shoot people straight on, especially when characters are first introduced. These shots are held long enough for us to really see each face, and in some way to imagine ourselves as seen by the eyes looking out through the screen. When the immigrants are first revealed, we are given a series of shots that really show them to us -- These, the film seems to be saying, are human beings. The only undifferentiated characters are the soldiers of the security forces. Formally, the film aligns the immigrants with the main characters, insisting on their equal humanity, and positions the humans against the nameless, generally faceless, and always threatening power of the State.
It's notable that the one individual antagonist, the Denouncer, is the one character who is a label instead of a name. Even Laika the dog is a clearer personality than the Denouncer or the soldiers.
Perhaps Le Havre is not, then, so much a fairy tale as an allegory -- an allegory of individual goodness against bureaucratic, state evil. It's the sort of movie Ron Paul could endorse. Little people against the government, solving problems the way they did way back in the good ol' days before paper money, back when everybody took care of everybody else. Who needs health insurance, after all, when the cure for terminal diseases is to wish them away? (Ron Paul wouldn't like Le Havre's overall message of tolerance for immigrants, though, as his own views are mostly toward the other side.)
Many of the scenes in Le Havre are amusing. One is sublime. It's a brief scene, but immensely rich. Idrissa discovers Marcel's record player, and puts on Blind Willie McTell's "Stateboro Blues". Marcel arrives home just then and watches him. Idrissa seems entranced. It's difficult to know quite what he thinks, but there he is -- a Gabonian boy in France listening to a long-dead African-American blues singer, overseen by an old French shoeshiner who has, himself, been described as like a child. Age and time, geography and history all disappear in that moment of common humanity.
Whatever my reservations about Le Havre's worldview, it and I and Bob Dylan can, it seems, all agree on one thing: No one can sing the blues like Blind Willie McTell.


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Thanks to Randy Seaver at Genea-Musings,
It's Saturday Night -
time for more Genealogy Fun!
Your mission, should you decide to accept it (cue the Mission Impossible! music) is to:
1) How many persons named John Smith do you have in your genealogy management program or online family tree? How many persons named John Smith are ancestors?
2) Pick out one of those persons named John Smith and do some online research for them in Ancestry, FamilySearch, or another set of record collections. Your goal is to add something to your database.
3) Tell us about it in your own blog post, in a comment to this blog post, or in a post on Facebook or Google+.
Here's mine:
1) I was somewhat startled to find I have but a single solitary John Smith (of any spelling variant) in my tree of over 6,100 individuals. And that John Smith is not a direct ancestor, his daughter Mary Smith married into my Day line.
2) So, here's what I know about John Smith prior to doing any further research today:
A) John was born in 1637 in Wethersfield, which is in present day Hartford County, Connecticut. He married Mary Partridge on Nov. 12, 1663 in Hadley, Hampshire County, Massachusetts (bearing in mind that county boundaries changed a bit in that region, it may not have been Hampshire County at the time!) and died on May 30 1676, with notes that he was killed by Indians. Every source I find tells me this. I remember at one point having some details on this, but I am not able to find them at the moment, as I am out on my laptop, not on my home computer. Also, in checking this, I find I have a discrepancy in that his daughter Mary Smith's birth date is given as over a year after John's death. Hmm, can't have that!
B) Searching on MyHeritage reveals a huge pile of MyHeritage Family Trees which contain this John Smith and Mary Partridge, and the dates line up with what I have. Unfortunately, I would rather find some more solid documentation, so I'm wading through the stack in hopes of something more concrete. I also located four entries in the WikiTree and two entries in the Geni World Tree. So much for solid documentation.
C) Find A Grave has an entry for John Smith:
Hartford County
Connecticut, USA
|May 30, 1676
Hampshire County
Massachusetts, USA
Children of John Smith and his wife Mary Partridge:
1. John Smith who married Mary Root.
2. Samuel who died at the age of 14 by falling off a horse.
3. Rev. Joseph Smith who married Canada Wait.
4. Benjamin Smith who settled in Wethersfield, Connecticut and married Ruth Buck.
5. Marah Smith who married John Day.
C) SmithConnections DNA Project for Descendants of Northeastern U.S. Smith Families (http://www.smithconnections.com/index.cgi) supposedly has an entry for this John Smith (along with hundreds and hundreds of others) but I could not find it in the time available to me. It was referenced in one of the WikiTree entries.
D) He is mentioned briefly in Genealogies of Hadley Families on archives.org (p.97) as being the deceased husband of Mary who had later married Richard Montague.
E) As you may have guessed, I found conflicting information on the Family Tree sources. As I am out of available time, I will have to schedule John Smith and his family for some later research to correct discrepancies.
3) Here it is!
This and all other articles on this blog are © copyright 2014 by Daniel G. Dillman


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Apart from its documentary or dramatic functions, film itself — as a material — can be used toward its own artistic end. Instead of the "plot" and "character" details inherited from stage theater, filmmakers from the late 1950s on have used 8 mm, 16 mm and 35 mm film as a surface, and the projector as the means of display, resulting in image-based experiments with abstraction and non-representational compositions at 24 frames a second.
Perhaps most famous is Stan Brakhage, whose 1963 Mothlight used moth wings, flower petals and other organic materials affixed to the tape itself, so that nothing was truly photographed. (To make Mothlight, Brakhage pressed the elements between strips of transparent 35 mm leader tape, and then ran the construction through an optical printer, used to transfer, copy or otherwise process reels of film.)
— Stan Brakhage, Mothlight, 1963
In subsequent years, artists Tony Conrad, Hollis Frampton and Paul Shartis pursued similar treatments in New York City and Buffalo, using light and image to explore perception itself, as well as to simply produce experiences possible only though the medium of projected film.
Frampton's Zorns Lemma, from 1970, explores mathematical set theory. According to a UK website dedicated to the filmmakers works, Zorns Lemma "begins with a dark screen and a woman narrating from The Bay State Primer, an early American grammar textbook that teaches the letters of the alphabet by using them in sentences derived from the Bible, then the rest of the film is mostly silent. It presents us with a recurring structure that perpetually moves throughout a 24-letter alphabet via various signs in New York with words that propel the film along. Gradually other images are added to the loop, some of them themselves slowly developing as we arrive at them the next time around. It concludes with a man, woman and dog crossing a snowy field, while several narrators each narrate one word at a time read from an 11th-century treatise, 'On Light, or the Ingression of Forms,' by Robert Grosseteste."
— Hollis Frampton, Zorns Lemma, 1970.
Conrad's The Flicker, from 1965, presents alternating frames of black and white washes, creating a flickering strobe-like sequence. Shartis' Word Movie from 1966 is equally literal in its focus, presenting a succession of innumerable words centered in each frame to a dizzying, incomprehensible effect, such that each word merely contributes to the movement or flow of the resulting image created by the whole.
— Paul Shartis, Word Movie, 1966.
Word Movie is No. 29 in a series of 37 film pieces that make up the Fluxfilm anthology, complied by New York artist George Maciunas, who's considered one of the founders of the Fluxus art movement based in 1960s New York. According to UbuWeb, where the full anthology is available to view, Fluxus is described as an "interdisciplinary aesthetic [that] brings together influences as diverse as Zen, science, and daily life and puts them to poetic use. Initially received as little more than an international network of pranksters, the playful artists of Fluxus were, and remain, a network of radical visionaries who sought to reconcile art with life."
The Fluxfilm anthology provides a kind of synecdoche for the broader artistic activity of the casual group. "These films (some of which were meant to be screened as continuous loops) were shown as part of the events and happenings of the New York avant-garde," according to UbuWeb. "Made by artists ranging from Nam June Paik and Wolf Vostell to Yoko Ono, they celebrate the ephemeral humor of the Fluxus movement."
In conjunction with the Asheville Fringe Festival (Jan. 24-27), the Asheville Art Museum will show the 40-minute anthology on a 16 mm print — a very rare local exhibition of experimental film, especially in the given format. (The digital transfers available online provide a useful proxy, but, as with recorded and live music, the interaction of film and light is singular.) This significant event continues the AAM's invigorated programming since its expansion began in 2012. Originally scheduled for today, Jan. 17 at 7 p.m., and Friday, Jan. 18 at noon, the event has been postponed due to weather. The new dates are Thursday, Jan. 24 and Friday, Jan. 25, at 7 p.m. and noon.
This film screening is held in conjunction with AAM's current New Media Gallery exhibition Flux Cuts: Experiments in Film. To reserve tickets, visit the AAM front desk during regular business hours or call 253-3227. Tickets are available at the museum before the screenings.


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In the classic movie "The Wizard of Oz," Dorothy, the newcomer to the strange and magical land of Oz, observed, "My, people come and go so quickly around here!" With the start of the New Year, many fitness clubs will operate in a similar universe. The whirlwind of sales that typically hits after the holidays creates an influx of new members eager to adopt healthier habits. Unfortunately, within a few short weeks, many of them are gone with the wind, but with some planning, clubs can increase member satisfaction and improve the odds of retention with these five tips:
1. Make members feel at home. Joining a gym may push new members out of their comfort zones, making them feel self-conscious and vulnerable. You must have enough staff on hand to ensure that new members get the attention they need, which might require you to increase the number of trainers on the fitness floor to provide feedback on form and offer assistance with operating the machines. Make sure there are enough classes on the schedule to meet demand and that changes are communicated well in advance. You may want to have instructors team teach busy classes. Consider creating a seasonal position for a greeter or concierge to welcome members and answer questions. Eliminate anonymity by coaching your team to learn names and interact frequently with members and guests.
2. Show new members the way. The first 30 days of a membership make or break a new member's experience. Industry research shows that members who come to the club two to three times per week are more likely to stick with their memberships than those who come less frequently. Teach new members how to exercise. This generally requires more than the industry standard of two 30-minute orientation sessions after joining. Then, focus on results. Consider developing an incentive program that promotes regular attendance and encourages members to try different areas of the club and meet key team members. Rewards could include credit towards club services and products or a discount on dues.
3. Minimize confusion. One of the funniest scenes in "The Wizard of Oz" is when Dorothy and her friends approach the Emerald City gate. Excited to gain access, they ring the bell, and an impatient gatekeeper appears. He chastises them for ringing the bell and snottily asks why they couldn't read the instructions to knock on the door. He insists that the sign is as plain as the nose on his face, when, in fact, there are no such directions on display. Look through the lens of a beginner in your club to uncover unspoken rules or confusing policies. Experience mapping is a useful exercise to identify potential breakdowns in operations and service. Once you recognize possible points of confusion, take steps to minimize the possibility of any miscommunication. Clearly publicize time limits, reservations guidelines and other gym etiquette. Make sure you post plenty of comprehensible signage and that facility maps are well labeled.
4. Ensure your maintenance team is ready. Dorothy was quick with the WD-40 whenever the Tin Man broke down. Is your maintenance team equally responsive? Service your machines before the January rush, and inspect your heating, cooling and electrical systems regularly. Make sure you have procedures in place to quickly identify and resolve issues that may arise with your equipment or physical plant. The only thing worse than a collection of out-of-order signs on a crowded gym floor is a filthy facility. IHRSA's 2008 "Guide to Health Club Cleanliness" report found that nine out of 10 members who consider their club extremely clean are likely to renew their memberships compared to only five out of 10 members who consider their club to be unclean. Moreover, members who believe that their club is extremely clean are more likely to recommend it to friends and family. Practice good facility hygiene and pay close attention to hot spots, including locker rooms, equipment surfaces, floors and pools. Create a culture of cleanliness, coaching team members to be alert to the "big picture" club environment, such as temperature, lighting and potential hazards. Task all team members with club upkeep, and make it everyone's responsibility to respond to simple housekeeping needs—for example, picking up dirty towels or straightening equipment.
5. Be visible. Don't be the invisible man behind the curtain. Members want to see team members—especially managers—walking the floor instead of seated at their desks hiding behind their computers. Club research clearly correlates member retention with personal interaction between members and staff, so make it a priority to build relationships.
With a little preparation and attention to detail, this January's journey to Oz can be a magical experience for your members. They will be so pleased with your club that they won't want to click their heels together three times and go home.
Christine Thalwitz, director of communications and research at ACAC Fitness & Wellness Centers, Charlottesville, VA, believes that even grumpy Miss Gulch could have been reformed with a first-rate group cycle class and a great club experience. She advocates the use of brains, heart and courage to make fitness a magical journey for club members as they endeavor to keep their New Year's resolutions. She can be reached at email@example.com.


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My Mother in Law came up with this idea for the kids to do at the cabin. On cold days, or at night, we would build little furniture out of popsicle sticks and hot glue (the mattresses and pillows out of felt and cotton balls), and then at night we would leave them out for our forest friends.
and in return, they would leave surprises for the kids! My kids loved waking up to surprises!!!
(Rob and I got a little competetive with the furniture building...I one-upped him with the a bunk bed after his single bed...then he had to build the king cabin!


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Thales Alenia Space specializes in space infrastructure and transportation, including but not limited to: reentry vehicles, flying test-beds, and thermo-mechanical components. Thales Alenia has also designed and built 50% of the International Space Station's pressurized volume.
Designing and optimizing hypersonic reentry vehicles involves consideration of a variety of physics disciplines, large data sets of design and flight condition variables, and the inability to test prototypes under real-world conditions.
The Isight environment enabled aerospace design engineers at Thales Alenia to build complex, multi-step workflows and automate the optimization and verification of their designs.
The ability to integrate multiple simulations using extensive real-world flight condition measurements resulted in the elimination of conservative design assumptions, while also saving development time and encouraging departmental design collaboration.


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This is such a newb question but I posted to a topic this morning. It has not yet shown up which I figured was due to the fact that it has to be approved.
My question is, should i be able to see posts that I have made in my user control panel when I click "view posts" that have yet to be approved? My total posts shows 2, however under "Most Active Forum" and "Most Active Topic" 3 Posts/150% of your posts. I should have 3 posts total however when I click "view posts" only 2 show up. I guess technically after this, it will be 4 posts.
The reason I ask is I am curious if my post never actually posted.
Thank you,


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Sunday, July 11, 2010
Free J.D.!
Some notes:
*Martinez' OPS is 1.006, best in the South Atlantic League. And it's not like he's just loading up on slugging. He's leading the SAL in average (.358), OBP (.424), and SLG (.582).
*He's also leading the SAL in runs (77), hits (120), doubles (30).
*He's second in homers (15), RBI (61 - Kody Hinze is leading with 67).
*Martinez has 55K in 335 ABs - 16.4%.
*Those 120 hits are second in all of minor-league baseball, while his Avg is 3rd.
*Just considering Single-A players, Martinez' Avg is 2nd, hits are 1st, RBIs are 2nd, OBP is 3rd, and SLG is 2nd.
*He's hitting .345/.389/.512 against LHP and .363/.435/.606 against RHP. At home, he's hitting .354/.439/.599 and .362/.412/.569 on the road.
*His OPS by month:
April: .940
May: .998
June: .994
July: 1.293.
As was noted in a post linked above, Martinez is about two years older than his SAL competition. What else do the Astros need to see? Send him to Corpus, and challenge him against guys who are a little older and see what he can do.
3 comments:
- AstroAndy said...
Would you rather displace Steele or Gaston at Corpus so that Martinez gets everyday playing time?
I'm cool with J.D. learning to maximize his value in Lexington's RF for at least a month more, if not the rest of the season. He still needs to learn to read fly balls...if he doesn't learn that soon, he'll be a 1B. Patience with his fielding now could lead to a better overall player in the future.
- July 11, 2010 at 5:01 PM
- street said...
I'll get around to a more detailed response tomorrow, but briefly: JD can work on defense anywhere, but the only place he can work on hitting advanced pitchers is by getting out of the SAL...
- July 11, 2010 at 7:31 PM
- street said...
Additionally, I don't see it as a question of displacing Steele or Gaston at Corpus (though given their production this season, a couple of days off here and there certainly couldn't hurt). If they can get 28 year old OF David Cook 200+ ABs and into 69 games (even though he started the season in Round Rock), they can certainly find some consistent ABs for JD Martinez if they wanted to (in the OF or as DH). It's not like he couldn't spend extra time on his off days working on his fielding...
And while I know the argument about sending JD to Lancaster, it's still hitting against more advanced pitchers, which would have to be worth something... Former Independent OF Lee Cruz has 126 ABs over 31 games for the JetHawks. There are plenty of ABs to spare in the OF and at DH in Lancaster as well...
Ultimately I have no idea if JD is the hitter his numbers would indicate he is, or yet another bust waiting to happen. Either way, it's [well past] time to challenge the kid and find out what he can do!
- July 12, 2010 at 4:25 AM


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Hamantashen are a classic Purim dessert. Hamantashen are always triangular and designed to look like the triangular hat that the villain of the Purim story, Haman, wore. I have no idea why we bake cookie shaped like hats; that's just what we do. For those less familiar with the story of Purim, I have a YouTube clip telling the Purim story in rap format at the bottom of this post. First things first, though. Let's take a step-by-step look at how to make (and how not to make) hamantashen.
Hamantashen Recipe
There is a bit of a rift in the Jewish community as to what the perfect hamantashen texture should be. Some like hamanshen cakey, while others, like myself, prefer the crisp cookie variety. Sadly, there is one bakery in St. Louis (you know which one it is if you live here) that seems to supply the hamantashen for the entire city. Their recipe falls into the cakey variety and I'm not a fan. The recipe below is crispy and crunchy. As all good Jewish recipes should be, this recipe for hamantashen was passed down from my mom. She got the recipe from the 1955 Peekskill Cookbook (I presume that it was a fund raising cookbook for some organization in her town). The hamantashen recipe was submitted to the cookbook by Dora Levin. Dora, I don't know who you are or if you are still alive, but your recipe is now famous! The hamantashen recipe did not come with a count of how many cookies that it makes, perhaps because you can make them any size that you like. It does make quite a lot of cookies – plus the dough is really easy to make and requires no refrigeration time – so in a pinch (beware of foreshadowing), you could always quickly whip up some more.
Hamantashen Recipe – Tips to Make the Perfect Purim Cookie
- 3 cups flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup butter room temperature
- 3 eggs
- your choice of filling jam, jelly, preserves, chocolate chips, nuts. The recipe also included directions for a prune filling: blend raw prunes in a food processor, adding the juice and rind of one lemon and 1/2 C honey for every pound of prunes used.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Mix in butter and eggs.
- Roll out dough and form hamantashen (I've got step by step visuals on this below).
- Bake on a well-greased cookie sheet or on parchment paper for 12-15 minutes at 400 F.
How to Make Hamantashen
Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters or the rim of a glass to cut into circles. The recipe called for the dough to be 1/4 inch thick. Mine might have been a bit thicker than that. I didn't measure. Don't obsess about it. You can make the circles any size you like. I made mine with a 3 1/2 inch diameter because that is the perfect size to sit on top of the hamatashen cupcakes that are coming soon. Next, you'll want to put a dollop of your filling in the middle of the circle. DO NOT put too much filling or it will overflow. Look at the first step's photo to get a sense of the proportion of filling to circle. Follow pictures two through four to fold over the circle, magically turning it into a triangle. Optional – You may want to moisten the edge of the circle with some water before folding. This will help it to stick shut. It's especially helpful if the dough has gotten at all dry. You also may consider brushing the top of the triangle with egg to give it some extra shine. We Jews seem to have a thing for pinching. [Insert mental image of a Jewish grandma squeezing a baby's cheeks and saying, "Such a shayna punim (pretty face)."] When I first attacked the task of turning the circles into triangles, my instinct was simply to pinch in the corners. The problem, as you can see, was that they all opened up during baking. Moral (and this should apply in all areas of life): Do not pinch! Follow the folding method shown above. If you do that, you will have pretty hamantashen!


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A homosexual activist group is waxing gleeful over the results of its latest study showing that "gay" characters are at a record high on prime-time and other television shows. The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) announced that in its most recent "Where Are We Now" report, "the number of regular lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) characters on broadcast networks has risen to the highest ever recorded," and LGBT characters are clawing their way to up the count on cable shows as well.
GLAAD has been doing the study for the past 17 years, and after last year's dip in homosexual TV characters, it found that this year (2012-13 season) nearly four and one-half percent of actors on prime-time network comedy and drama series will portray sexually confused characters. For the report the homosexual researchers analyzed nearly 100 scripted television shows scheduled to air in the upcoming season, discovering that of 701 characters, 31 of them are some flavor of "gay."
Of the networks, ABC won this year's prize for the most such characters, with 10 out of 194 homosexual portrayals (5.2 percent). Fox came in a close second, with six homosexuals out of 118 regular series characters (5.1 percent). Getting kudos from GLAAD for its "most-improved" status was CBS, which boasted four out of 142 homosexual characters (a "dismal" 2.8 percent, but up dramatically from less than one percent last year).
Over on the cable side of TV the GLAAD study also found something for "gays" who care about such things to crow about. On mainstream cable networks the tally of regular homosexual characters appearing on series this season inched up to 35, with an additional 26 recurring characters reflecting sexual confusion. Showtime spotlights the most "LGBT" characters on cable at 12, with the cable series True Blood regularly trotting six "LGBT" characters.
"Gay" groups like GLAAD are desperate for homosexuals to be seen as normal by the rest of society, and they apparently consider TV as a mirror of cultural reality. GLAAD president Herndon Graddick insisted that this year's supposed increase in homosexual characters "reflects a cultural change in the way gay and lesbian people are seen in our society. More and more Americans have come to accept their LGBT family members, friends, coworkers, and peers, and as audiences tune into their favorite programs, they expect to see the same diversity of people they encounter in their daily lives."
Graddick declared it crucial for networks increasingly "to weave complex and diverse storylines of LGBT people in the different programs they air. When young LGBT people see loving couples like Callie and Arizona on Grey's Anatomy or Degrassi's confident transgender high school student Adam Torres, they find characters they can look up to and slowly start building the courage to live authentically."
But Dan Gainor of the Media Research Center, a conservative media watchdog group, said the increase in homosexuality on TV is not the result of greater tolerance as much as Hollywood and liberal Democrats trying to force their pro-homosexual agenda on the rest of the nation. "This is the year of the gays in entertainment, in media in general, and frankly with the White House," Gainor told OneNewsNow.com. "We are being forced a pro-gay agenda.... They don't even want tolerance; they won't accept it — and they're going to force it."
He added that the folks in Hollywood pumping out prime-time filth "don't know Christianity, they don't know traditional values, they don't know faith, and they don't know family." All they're familiar with, he argued, is "depravity, debauchery, perversion, [and] that's what they're good at. So that's what they're trying to force the American public to accept and embrace."


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This science news story highlights a new initiative by the Hubble Space Telescope to image distant galaxies. The program uses gravitational lenses to image galaxies that are otherwise too distant and faint for the telescope to image. The story... (View More) includes information describing how gravitational lenses are similar to optical lenses. The article also includes a description of parallel fields - a set of observations done in tandem with the gravitational lens observations that will result in six additional HUDF-type observations of the sky. Star Witness News is a series of articles, written for students, that are inspired by Hubble Space Telescope press releases. Supplemental education materials include vocabulary, discussion questions and answers, and identifies relevant Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts. (View Less)
These guides showcase education and public outreach resources from across more than 20 NASA astrophysics missions and programs. The twelve guides - one for each month - contain a science topic, an interpretive story, a sky object to view with... (View More) finding charts, hands-on activities, and connections to NASA science. The guides are modular, so that educators can use the portions that are the most useful for their audiences/events. Following is the theme for each month: January - Betelgeuse, February - Orion Nebula, March - Pleiades, April - Pollux; May - Hubble Deep Field, June - Hercules Cluster, July - Ring Nebula & Veil Nebula, August - The Search for Habitable Worlds, September - Milky Way Galaxy, October - Upsilon Andromedae, November - Andromeda Galaxy, and December - Crab Nebula. (View Less)
Materials Cost: 1 cent - $1 per student
This science news story highlights Hubble's infrared image of the Horsehead Nebula. Students will discover why astronomers are interested in this nebula and how they study the nebula using infrared light. Star Witness News is a series of articles,... (View More) written for students, that are inspired by Hubble Space Telescope press releases. Supplemental education materials include vocabulary, discussion questions and answers, and identifies relevant English language arts standards. (View Less)
This is a demonstration about the density of the planets. Learners will compare the relative sizes and masses of scale models of the planets as represented by fruits and other foods. They will then dunk the "planets" in water to highlight the fact... (View More) that even a large, massive planet - such as Saturn - can have low density. They discuss how a planet's density is related to whether it is mainly made up of rock or gas. This activity is part of Explore! Jupiter's Family Secrets, a series designed to engage children in space and planetary science in libraries and informal learning environments. (View Less)
Materials Cost: $5 - $10 per group of students
This model demonstrates convection currents and uses water, food coloring, a cup of very hot water and a votive candle as heat sources. Movie clips of demonstration setup and convection in action are provided. This activity is supported by a... (View More) textbook chapter, What Heats the Earth's Interior?, part of the unit, Energy Flow, in Global Systems Science (GSS), an interdisciplinary course for high school students that emphasizes how scientists from a wide variety of fields work together to understand significant problems of global impact. (View Less)
Learners will explore different ways of displaying visual spectra, including colored "barcode" spectra, like those produced by a diffraction grating, and line plots displaying intensity versus color, or wavelength. Students learn that a diffraction... (View More) grating acts like a prism, bending light into its component colors. The activity is part of Project Spectra, a science and engineering program for middle-high school students, focusing on how light is used to explore the Solar System. (View Less)
This science news story explains the impact of the Hubble Space Telescope over the past two decades. The article describes the telescope, its many servicing missions, the public's favorite images, the top science findings, and the man for whom the... (View More) telescope is named. Star Witness News is a series of articles, written for students, that are inspired by Hubble Space Telescope press releases. Supplemental education materials include background information, vocabulary, and discussion questions and answers. (View Less)
In this lesson, students explore the cosmic microwave background to understand why it permeates the universe and why it peaks as microwave radiation. Students should be able to explain that the origin of the background radiation is the uniform... (View More) thermal radiation of the big bang and that the radiation produced was evenly distributed around the small early universe, causing it to permeate today's universe. This activity is part of the Cosmic Times teachers guide and is intended to be used in conjunction with the 1965 Cosmic Times Poster. (View Less)
This is an activity exploring the concept that distance affects how we perceive an object's size, specifically pertaining to the size of the Sun and the Moon as seen from Earth. Learners will complete a hands on activity where two balls of differing... (View More) sizes stand in for the Sun and the Moon. By moving the balls away from each other, students will determine how far the larger ball needs to be in order to make the two seem similar in size. They will also use the balls to demonstrate a solar eclipse. Lastly, learners will complete a worksheet explaining their findings. This is Activity 12 of a larger resource entitled Eye on the Sky. (View Less)
This is an activity about measurement. Learners will label key points and features on a rectangular equal-area map and measure the distance between pairs of points in order to calculate the actual physical distance on the Sun that the point pairs... (View More) represent. This is Activity 5 of the Space Weather Forecast curriculum. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free


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Incredible Marketing needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 262 designs submitted by 59 freelance designers.
Habermehl Aesthetics & Wellness Center (HAWC)
We are a premier aesthetic center located in Southern California that caters to the stars and the Housewives of the OC!
We focus on Medical Weightloss and hormone therapy. We also specialize in anti-aging procedures and non-evasive cosmetic procedures.
Please see design requirements for a better understanding of who we are and what we are looking for.
Mostly women in their 30s-60s who want to feel more youthful and better about themselves.
-aesthetic feel
-signify strength, inner beauty
-incorporate the tendrils (the curly cues ONLY) of the Yelverton family crest
See JPG: tendrils.jpg
-can use the HAWC or HA into the concept
-have a body that signifies the fitness and strength that comes from Karate (one concept/idea)
Brand Name-
Habermehl Aesthetics & Wellness Center
with the use of Foy en Tout (Faith in all things)
Tag Line-
Look Good Feel Good
Color Palette-
light blues
blues (ocean)
golds (warm)
Overall feel and focus-
To focus on medical weight loss and hormone therapy.
To evoke feelings of comfort, peace, medical spa
-istock photos or icons
-designs that are not well developed
-copied designs that are not original
We have been seeing TOO MANY REUSED DESIGNS. Please make sure your designs fit the brief requirements.
Examples of designs liked:
1. Carolina Vascular-CVI.jpg
Likes the 3D effect and detail of the design. The logo looks luxurious and sophisticated.
2. Innovative Vein- Innovative Vein.jpg
Likes the 3D effect of the design. It is eye-catching and unique.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.