Fifteen Minutes of Fun: Wordle

My friend Jon Sampson pointed this website out on his blog this week, and I got hooked. You should check it out. The website is wordle.net.

Essentially, wordle takes a massive set of textual data and analyzes it to find words that are repeated frequently. It then takes the analysis and sculpts a word-art picture in which large words represent frequency of repetition and small words represent infrequency of repetition.

To illustrate, I’ve included a sample wordle of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

Enjoy!

[RANDOM] Things I DON’T Want for Christmas Part IV

As we continue with our journey through the things I DON’T want for Christmas, I should point out the inherent dangers in revealing this list of freaky odd assortment of gifts. The most dangerous part of lists like this is the sick friends you have who decide to get you something off of your “DO NOT WANT” list. They think it’s funny, you think they’re getting a box full of snotty tissues from your last cold.

Today’s entry: The Head Kenzen (Scalp Scratcher)

What it is: (via japantrendshop.com)

The Head Kenzan is a delightful scalp massager with a unique Japanese twist. The brush structure is inspired by “kenzan,” a traditional tool used in Japanese flower arranging to hold the flowers in place. With 92 bristles that hit upon that perfect balance of not-too-hard and not-too-soft, the flexible Head Kenzan molds itself to your head. Simply use the handles on either side to run the brush back and forth, massaging and energizing your scalp. We can’t think of an easier way to erase troublesome tensions and get those creative juices flowing again!

My thoughts: Um…okay, you “couldn’t think of an easier way to erase troublesome tensions” than by melting plastic in the shape of a torture device from the medieval period? I think the picture is taken just prior to the girl realizing that she can NEVER take the bright yellow pain-device off of her head. Because once she realizes that it’s a headpiece with large yellow spikes, she’s going to lose it.

[RANDOM] Things I DON’T Want for Christmas Part III

Okay, whoever gives this next gift to me for Christmas is will be politely dismissed from my friend list on Facebook, removed from my contact list on my cell phone, and most likely be signed up for free subscriptions of Field & Stream magazine for the next twenty years.

Merry Christmas from Heaven Ornament

What it is: (from lighterside.com)

Ease the loss of a loved one during the holidays.

Pewter finish ornament includes a place for a photo of your beloved who is in Heaven to remind you that their love is with you always. Sculpted doves symbolize peace and perfection in Heaven. The ribbon reminds you that you are forever connected to those you love, and the stars remind you that love always shines.

A cherished heirloom for generations to come.

Comes in keepsake box with a bookmark imprinted with the entire “Merry Christmas From Heaven” poem.

My Comment:

What the &^*%?

[RANDOM] Things I DON’T Want for Christmas Part II

In case you’re keeping a list of things that I DON’T want for Christmas, here’s another ridiculous product that, if found under a tree with my name on it, will be immediately re-gifted (maybe to you!)

Pimple Candy (Ewww.)

WHAT IT IS: (from stupid.com)

Quick, think of the most disgusting candy imaginable…

TIMES UP!

If you’re truly sick like we are, you immediately thought of PIMPLE CANDY!

Well, sick minds think alike, because some troubled candy company has come out with ZIT POPPERS CANDY!

They’re so gross, they might be worse than eating real zits. (Okay, we exaggerate…. but just a little.)

Each insane box of Zit Poppers Candy contains 3.25 ounces of candy zits. That’s approximately 16 zits. (We can’t believe we’re even WRITING this.)

The zits are soft and sticky, and if you squeeze them hard enough, a bloody candy ooze seeps out. Those of you courageous enough to eat Zit Poppers will discover they have a wonderful strawberry and watermelon flavor. (We checked the box, and no actual blood, puss, or sputum is used in making the candy.)

By now, you’re probably anxious to buy a box or two for yourself and special friends. But act quickly…. something so amazingly revolting can’t possibly stay on the market for long.

MY COMMENT:

Disgusting.

[RANDOM] Things I DON’T Want for Christmas Part I

Have you ever thought of things you DON’T want for Christmas? In a lame (DK is weaning me off this word) attempt at humor, here is part 1 of my new series: “Things I DON’T want for Christmas.”

A Skull Belt Buckle with .MP3 Playback Capability

WHAT IT IS: (from random-good-stuff.com)

Large skull belt buckle with square slot to hold a media player or LED light module.

Just when you thought belt buckles were a thing of the past, we have forged for you a new cast metal one with a modern skull design that has a unique window compartment for holding an MP3/MP4 player, LED light module, or your own art/accessories that are 40mm x 60mm or smaller.

This package includes the cast metal belt buckle, 1GB media player, LED light module, and stereo earphones – all that you need to enjoy your new belt in style. Use it just as a regular belt buckle, a stylish MP3 player, an multi-color LED light belt-buckle, or a holder for your own personal property, the choice is yours.

(THIS IS MY FAVORITE PART) What else can you do with this punk skull belt buckle? Do you have to walk through dangerous a neighborhood at night or hang out at a rough bar? Then we have found the perfect clothing accessory for you. If anyone gives you trouble, just give them a skull in the face! That’s right, this belt buckle is so solid you could take it off and use it has a handheld weapon. Wear this unique belt buckle with pride of ownership.

At a Glance…

• Large punk skull belt buckle with square slot to hold media player, LED light module, or other .
• Use this baby as a fashion statement or holder for your choice of accessory.
• When used as an MP3 player, the earphones have easy to use control mid-pieces for adjustment of volume or song selection.

[AROUND PASADENA] Great Places to Study Part II

In continuing my post from yesterday, here are great spots #6, #7, and #8 to study in Pasadena.

#8: Beantown (N. Baldwin in Sierra Madre): Okay, Beantown is a great place to study. The tables are colorful, there are lots of pictures around the place to inspire your mind, and the place generally puts off a post-trendy hipster vibe. That being said, the only downside to Beantown is scoring a place to sit. I’ve walked in and out of Beantown at least a half dozen times throughout the day only to be disappointed with the lack of seating space. So if you plan on coming to Beantown, get used to playing the “Table Vulture” game. (Pros: Local, comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, solid drinks, good bagels. Cons: Lack of seating, evenings can be raucous.)

#7: ‘The Bar’ @ Starbucks (S. Lake and California in Pasadena): I know that I already listed one Starbucks as a good place to study. But the recent renovations at the S. Lake Starbucks brought in a terrific bar seating

area in the main space. This space is highly coveted, however, and will most likely be taken up quickly on most days. Katie and I have found the weekday mornings to be great times to grab a bar seat. There is power under the bar (sort of inefficient, if you ask me), and if you buy your drink with a registered Starbucks gift card, you can score free Wi-Fi. This is a solid place to study. I recommend bringing a study pal or two with you, however, so you don’t feel uncomfortable squashed at the bar with the guy who has to talk on his cell phone the whole time he’s there. Enjoy! (Pros: Excellent study space, great softseating, good drinks, “free”

Wi-Fi. Cons: Corporate chain, busy, music can be repetitive, cramped at times.)

PICTURE COMING SOON

#6: Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (S. Lake and San Pasqual, north of Borders): This place is an awesome place to study, read, or write at. It is unlike most places, however, because it is OUTSIDE. That’s right, the majority of seats (with the exception of six spots) are all outside at outdoor tables under umbrellas. So if you’re looking for

a great outdoor place to study, I highly recommend CB&TL. The only downside is that the outdoor scenes tend to attract the abusive smokers. Many a time has come when I have wanted to confront the folks who decide that killing themselves isn’t enough, they have to take me down with them. The coffee is decent, though their prices are a bit excessive for what you get, and their tea is probably great (I’m not a tea drinker, myself). Wi-Fi is not free unless you are an AT&T home subscriber (which we are) which means that you can log in for free for as long as you’d like. The best time to come here is during the early afternoon, when the sunlight keeps it warm

and bright enough to study. (Pros: Solid outdoor place, good drinks, “Free” Wi-Fi (If you’re an AT&T subscriber). Cons: Smokers, uncomfortable chairs after a while.)

[RANDOM] The Real Way to Wrap your Headphone Cable

So here it is people, the real way to wrap your headphone cable.

Now you know.

[AROUND PASADENA] Great Places to Study Part I

I decided that I wanted to begin a series of posts in which I recommend good great places to study in and around the Pasadena area. As a newcomer to Pasadena almost three years ago, I was searching for just the right spot to go to get some quality work done. So here is my list of the Top Ten places to study in Pasadena. Today we’ll look at #9 and #10.

#10: Starbucks (E. Colorado and Los Robles): Okay, so Starbucks is probably my default place to go to study. This particular Starbucks, a mid-sized joint, is a terrific place to go. My recommendations are to go early in the morning (6:30-7:00) so that you can get a table without any problems. From 7:30-9:30 it’s incredibly busy, with many people grabbing their coffee to-go. At any Starbucks, be sure to get your drink in a “for-here” glass/mug, if you’re staying.

#9: Steamers (Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre): This local, church-run coffeehouse is actually a very appealing place to study. If you’re tired of the Starbucks circuit (and who isn’t), try out this little shop nestled in the foothills. The view is terrific, and the town of Sierra Madre will make you feel like you DON’T live in L.A. This is a great location to bike to, if you live in Pasadena. They are very welcoming to bikes in the store and are often frequented by cyclists. The seating is great in Steamers, having lots of softseating while also having some substantially large tables. Saturday and Sunday afternoons are good times to hike out to Steamers. Again, get a for-here glass.

Tomorrow, I’ll check out #6, #7, and #8. Enjoy!

[INTERESTING] California High-Speed Train Information

So last Tuesday, a bunch of Californians (including myself) decided to finally build a high-speed train system that connects San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. Here’s some more details via Engadget.

“With the recent passage of Proposition 1A, the wheels have started to churn on a sophisticated bullet train system that will eventually link San Diego in the south with Sacramento in the north, with stops at most every major city in between (LA and San Francisco included). The 800-mile network of trains would operate at upwards of 220mph and cost around $45 billion to construct, but it’ll create 320,000 permanent jobs by 2030 and reduce the state’s reliance on fossil fuel by 12.7 million barrels of oil per year. Unfortunately, there’s no set time frame for completion just yet.” (Actually, I’ve heard 2030 is the completion date.)

Here is a map of the proposed train system.

Check out the video below if you’re interested in seeing a 3D model of the future of California.

[ART & FILM] Is there room for non-art?

I really liked Transformers. I liked Spider-Man 1, 2, (and yes, even 3). National Treasure? Why not? Two-thumbs up

for Batman Begins and its sequel The Dark Knight. I saw Get Smart and thought it was hilarious.

I get teased often for my delight in seeing these films by my friends and family alike.

My good friend Dave likes to tell me that I love the summer blockbuster movies. He tells me that I am a sucker for the big-budget, visual-effected displays of pixelated delight. He’s right.

But why? Are they ‘artful?’ Probably not.

Do they make me consider the world differently than prior to me seeing the film? No.

Does the quality of the plot, acting, or cinematography stand out as something unique and clever? No.

So why would a 25-year old with a graduate-level education spend $10 to watch these movies in theaters?

Simple answer: I don’t know.

This leads me to my question for today.

I’m aware enough to know that the typical summer blockbusters barely squeeze into the broad category of ‘art.’ I am not trying to force a deeper meaning onto these poorly-plotted thrillers, nor do I attend a viewing hoping to identify a rich sub-text that speaks to the issues of our generation. But the question is this: Is there room in our culture for ‘non-art’?

Should every film from Transformers to Once be mandated to write at multiple levels, thus satiating the sharpest critics while at the same time appealing to the uneducated masses? Personally, I get really annoyed when I cannot simply appreciate a movie for the sake of its other-worldly effects, effects that transport me from the mundane to the fantastical. I get frustrated when I have to defend a movie on the basis of its deeper subtext when it is painfully obvious that there is none.

A loose analogy: If I wanted to see terrific visual art, I would attend a gallery premiere at a local art museum. I probably would not go look at the cheap, mass-produced pieces of ‘art’ hanging at the local Starbucks. Why not? Because I didn’t go to Starbucks to look at the ‘art’, I went to get coffee.

If I wanted to see great art in film, I wouldn’t go see Transformers. But that’s not why people like me go to see Transformers. We go because when we were kids, we thought it would be awesome if our parents car could turn into a robot. For great art, I’d watch any Charlie Kaufman flick (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Being John Malkovich, and Synecdoche, New York), I’d recommend films like Vanilla Sky, Juno, Fight Club, Elizabethtown, Once, and Moulin Rouge.

So, don’t think that I am unable to detect good art in films, or that I am just a populist, non-critical moviegoer. Sometimes I want coffee and mass-produced art, and other times, I want pure, terrific art.