Sunday, November 28, 2010
Future Postings
Any future postings will be on Facebook at the Helen and The Hunter fan page under Discussions.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
Paperback
400 pages
Barnes and Noble Classics
ISBN: 9781593081287
Wuthering Heights is the novel of classic English literature authored by Emily Brontë in 1847. It tells the story of a passionate love, yet one flawed, like so many love stories, between Heathcliff and Catherine. Heathcliff was an orphan raised by Catherine's father on the moors of northern England. The father, over time, favors him more than his two children and they resent Heathcliff. Although, Catherine and Heathcliff soon become inseperable as great friends and thier friendship grows into love.
Hindley, the brother, continues to hate and abuse Heathcliff to the point that the once orphaned boy moves away and returns three years later from America a wealthy man. Heathcliff finds that Catherine married a wealthy land owner, so he himself marries Cathy's sister-in-law so that one day he will inherit Thrushcross Grange. He ends up making everyone's life miserable as his had been and at one point also inherits Wuthering Heights where more misery awaits. Wuthering Heights is full of engaging characters with many flaws who find themselves in turbulent relationships.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Oil from Gulf Spill Could Power 43K+ Vehicles
The BP oil spill has reached more than 4 million barrels of crude. This equals roughly 168 million gallons that have spilled into the Gulf and significantly exceeds the Exxon Valdez disaster.
"As of June 9, 2010, if all the oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico had been used for fuel, it could have powered 38,000 cars, and 3,400 trucks, and 1,800 ships for a full year," according to University of Delaware Prof. James J. Corbett. As stated in the article, "That's based on the estimated spill rate of 19,000 barrels of oil per day."
• By May 31 (41 days after the spill), the lost energy could have fueled one freight truck on 17 trips across all 4 million miles of U.S. highway.
• Transportation activities consume about two-thirds of all petroleum in the United States -- more than 20 billion barrels per day, according to Corbett.
Check out other facts about the gulf spill in the article. And on google.
"As of June 9, 2010, if all the oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico had been used for fuel, it could have powered 38,000 cars, and 3,400 trucks, and 1,800 ships for a full year," according to University of Delaware Prof. James J. Corbett. As stated in the article, "That's based on the estimated spill rate of 19,000 barrels of oil per day."
• By May 31 (41 days after the spill), the lost energy could have fueled one freight truck on 17 trips across all 4 million miles of U.S. highway.
• Transportation activities consume about two-thirds of all petroleum in the United States -- more than 20 billion barrels per day, according to Corbett.
Check out other facts about the gulf spill in the article. And on google.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Child-Sized Tablet Computers
The philanthropic organization One Laptop per Child (OLPC) never quite managed to hit its price point for its "$100 laptop," but now the organization is sketching a concept for a $75 tablet computer that it hopes will further decrease power consumption and pioneer the first flexible LCD display. "A tablet computer holds some practical advantages.
Because the keyboard is presented as touch-screen display, like those on the iPhone and iPad, there's no keyboard for a kid to break. Equally important for an organization hoping to reach kids in remote corners of the world, a tablet also allows unlimited customization of keyboards for minor languages and dialects. The existing XO ships with any of 17 different keyboards, but that's hardly enough; India alone has 33 languages."
More on Tablet computers.
Because the keyboard is presented as touch-screen display, like those on the iPhone and iPad, there's no keyboard for a kid to break. Equally important for an organization hoping to reach kids in remote corners of the world, a tablet also allows unlimited customization of keyboards for minor languages and dialects. The existing XO ships with any of 17 different keyboards, but that's hardly enough; India alone has 33 languages."
More on Tablet computers.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Ways to Improve as a Writer
There are many ways to improve as a writer. The strategies are only limited by your desire and the willingness to work hard and set reasonable goals. When you continue to write you'll continue to improve as a writer as long as you give an honest effort and keep to the goals. The best thing to do is to just sit down and write. Even if the writing isn't so great it will always improve as the writer imrpoves.
Practice is most immportant, as is patience. The one thing next to writing that's very important is reading. Read your own writing, then the works of others, doing so first for enjoyment and then the second time to study how that author wrote the scenes and plot, developed the characters and created the settings.
It's also a great thing to write about what you know. And like with any research, you can also write what you don't know about, but have an interest in. When researching, also take notes on the details that you might not include in the story. Building on your knowledge is important, even if it all won't be read on the page. This can bring an in depth experience to the manuscript that it would otherwise lack had the other facts not been known.
When researching, also be sure to observe. It's in your surroundings that observation and awareness can be an important factor in your writing. It adds to the realism of the sights, sounds and smells that a character might encounter. Be sure to read your work aloud, as words sound different when read than just thought. Print a copy of the work and review it with a pen, because this approach also offers a different perspective than from only reading from a screen.
Practice is most immportant, as is patience. The one thing next to writing that's very important is reading. Read your own writing, then the works of others, doing so first for enjoyment and then the second time to study how that author wrote the scenes and plot, developed the characters and created the settings.
It's also a great thing to write about what you know. And like with any research, you can also write what you don't know about, but have an interest in. When researching, also take notes on the details that you might not include in the story. Building on your knowledge is important, even if it all won't be read on the page. This can bring an in depth experience to the manuscript that it would otherwise lack had the other facts not been known.
When researching, also be sure to observe. It's in your surroundings that observation and awareness can be an important factor in your writing. It adds to the realism of the sights, sounds and smells that a character might encounter. Be sure to read your work aloud, as words sound different when read than just thought. Print a copy of the work and review it with a pen, because this approach also offers a different perspective than from only reading from a screen.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Hardcover
256 pages
Tor Books
ISBN: 9780765317384
In Ender's Game it's the year 2250 and the human race is threatened by a third world war from an alien race. The governments have formed a World Goverment seperated into two parts: the Hegomony (Communist) and the Polemarch (Democrocy/Theocracy). To keep the earth's population controlled, by law, all families are restricted to having only two children. For the Wiggin's family, their first two children were highly skilled, yet Peter was much to selfish and Valentine, the daughter, too compassionate. For the government, these traits weren't suitable for their purposes so they allowed the Wiggins to have a third child. This child the parents named Ender and one who was exactly what was needed.
Ender is sent to military school where his talents surpass all other students'. At his Battle School Ender is trained in war tactics by using game simulations, though he doesn't like violent conflicts. His talent, above everyone else's is his capability to understand combat strategy and therefore wins every time. The Sci-Fi aspect only offers a setting and is likely not to influence the reader. This novel focuses on human emotions, who we are as both individuals and as a society. Among the characters are moral dillemas, rivalries, and thought provoking situations that we can all relate to.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
An Invisible Touch for Mobile Devices
It seems easy enough to control mobile devices with just a touch of the screen, but research is finding that requires no use of a touch screen or keyboard to be functional. An "imaginary interface" is implemented during phone conversation by the speaker using hand or finger movements by tracing shapes into the air. "The idea of interacting with computers through hand gestures is nothing new.
Sony already sells EyeToy, a video camera and software that capture gestures for its PlayStation game consoles; Microsoft has developed a more sophisticated gesture-sensing system, called Project Natal, for the Xbox 360 games console." Andy Wilson, a senior researcher at Microsoft, notes that the interface draws on the fact that people naturally use their hands to explain spatial ideas. "That's a quite powerful concept, and it hasn't been explored," he says. "I think they're onto something."
More on this article
Sony already sells EyeToy, a video camera and software that capture gestures for its PlayStation game consoles; Microsoft has developed a more sophisticated gesture-sensing system, called Project Natal, for the Xbox 360 games console." Andy Wilson, a senior researcher at Microsoft, notes that the interface draws on the fact that people naturally use their hands to explain spatial ideas. "That's a quite powerful concept, and it hasn't been explored," he says. "I think they're onto something."
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Writing Discipline
Sitting down and making yourself write is not always fun and even in the process of writing it still isn't always enjoyable. Writing is work, but with practice and patience it can develop into a rewarding experience that becomes less difficult. A good strategy is to write a certain number of pages a day or have a goal of a number of words each day. Whether these pages turn out great or not so great, the fact is that they were written and can always be improved.
Another goal can be to write a chapter or two a week and in several months a novel will be on its way to completion. There are countless ways of achieving writing goals and just like with writing, these strategies require creativity and then the discipline to see them through. It might even require switching strategies on a weekly or monthly basis. If this can be done, then your writing will get done.
Another goal can be to write a chapter or two a week and in several months a novel will be on its way to completion. There are countless ways of achieving writing goals and just like with writing, these strategies require creativity and then the discipline to see them through. It might even require switching strategies on a weekly or monthly basis. If this can be done, then your writing will get done.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Green Health Optimal for Good Mental Health
A new study in the American Chemical Society's journal Environmental Science & Technology is investigating "how much 'green exercise' produces the greatest improvement in mood and sense of personal well-being?" The answer is the right one for people who have little tim ein their schedule's to exercise. It only takes as little as five minutes of being outdoors, whether on a nature trail, gardening, or bicycling to benefit mental health.
Jules Pretty and Jo Barton explain in the study that "green exercise is physical activity in the presence of nature. We know from the literature that short-term mental health improvements are protective of long-term health benefits," Pretty said. "So we believe that there would be a large potential benefit to individuals, society and to the costs of the health service if all groups of people were to self-medicate more with green exercise," added Barton.
Although economic benefits could be substantial, policy makers have the challenge of adopting outdoor physical activity as public policy. Even if it consists of five minutes. "Policy frameworks that suggest active living point to the need for changes to physical, social and natural environments, and are more likely to be effective if physical activity becomes an inevitable part of life rather than a matter of daily choice."
More on Green Health
Jules Pretty and Jo Barton explain in the study that "green exercise is physical activity in the presence of nature. We know from the literature that short-term mental health improvements are protective of long-term health benefits," Pretty said. "So we believe that there would be a large potential benefit to individuals, society and to the costs of the health service if all groups of people were to self-medicate more with green exercise," added Barton.
Although economic benefits could be substantial, policy makers have the challenge of adopting outdoor physical activity as public policy. Even if it consists of five minutes. "Policy frameworks that suggest active living point to the need for changes to physical, social and natural environments, and are more likely to be effective if physical activity becomes an inevitable part of life rather than a matter of daily choice."
More on Green Health
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Complete What You Write
It's always fun to start a new writing project but what at first seems exciting can quickly turn into work. With the lack of enthusiasm, boredom can set in. There is no substitute for diligent work and keep focused on the goal of completing a manuscript. Writing is a lot of work and can be rewarding, but not without the effort and determination to see the project completed. It also takes strategy to overcome the boredom and lackluster task of writing page after seemingly endless page. Always think of a different approach and mindset when you start that next page or need to finished that chapter.
If you're bored with your story, so will the reader find themselves skipping to the exciting scenes. And never neglect the middle of the story, because it hold as much importance as the beginning and end. It takes discipline to sit and create those sentences that seem elusive or difficult to get into the right wording. With time this becomes easier as more practice is achieved and the writing goals toward and within the story are realized. Also, don't wait for inspiration to strike because you'll be waiting quite a long time to finished the story if you mostly rely on this. And the muse usually happens when you're already writing and in the flow of the words and scene. Remember this the next time you sit and start typing away.
If you're bored with your story, so will the reader find themselves skipping to the exciting scenes. And never neglect the middle of the story, because it hold as much importance as the beginning and end. It takes discipline to sit and create those sentences that seem elusive or difficult to get into the right wording. With time this becomes easier as more practice is achieved and the writing goals toward and within the story are realized. Also, don't wait for inspiration to strike because you'll be waiting quite a long time to finished the story if you mostly rely on this. And the muse usually happens when you're already writing and in the flow of the words and scene. Remember this the next time you sit and start typing away.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
New Fingermark Analysis for Crime Scenes
Just when you think that CSI can't get any more advanced, this article tells that, "A new technique to analyse fingermarks from crime scenes has the potential to give crucial additional details about a suspect such their medications, diet and the time at which they accidentally left the fingermark."
It goes on to say, "These extra details can be important background information in a criminal investigation, especially if the suspect's fingerprint is not on the police database. It is hoped the technique will compliment current fingermark detection techniques and assist in criminal investigations.
"A fingermark is made up of material from the surface of the skin and from gland secretions, which can be detected and analysed. Conventionally, fingermarks found at the scene of a crime are lifted, often using a powder, and are compared with prints on a police database to identify a suspect."
Read more about Fingermark Analysis
It goes on to say, "These extra details can be important background information in a criminal investigation, especially if the suspect's fingerprint is not on the police database. It is hoped the technique will compliment current fingermark detection techniques and assist in criminal investigations.
"A fingermark is made up of material from the surface of the skin and from gland secretions, which can be detected and analysed. Conventionally, fingermarks found at the scene of a crime are lifted, often using a powder, and are compared with prints on a police database to identify a suspect."
Read more about Fingermark Analysis
Saturday, May 8, 2010
The Adventures of Langdon St. Ives by James Blaylock
Hardcover
Subterranean Press
Pages 500
ISBN: 9781596061705
Jacketflap description:
So begins the first chronicle in the long and often obscure life of Langdon St. Ives, Victorian scientist and adventurer, respected member of the Explorers Club and of societies far more obscure, consultant to scientific luminaries, and secret, unheralded savior of humankind. From the depths of the Borneo jungles to the starlit reaches of outer space, and ultimately through the dark corridors of past and future time, the adventures of Langdon St. Ives invariably lead him back to the streets and alleys of the busiest, darkest, most secretive city in the world -- London in the age of steam and gaslamps, with the Thames fog settling in over the vast city of perpetual evening. St. Ives, in pursuit of the infamous Dr. Ignacio Narbondo, discovers the living horror of revivified corpses, the deep sea mystery of a machine with the power to drag ships to their doom, and the appalling threat of a skeleton-piloted airship descending toward the city of London itself, carrying within its gondola a living homunculus with the power to drive men mad....
This omnibus volume contains the collected Steampunk stories and novels of James P. Blaylock, one of the originators of the genre, which hearkens back to the worlds of Jules Verne and H.G. Wells, a world where science was a work of the imagination, and the imagination was endlessly free to dream.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Tips for Critiquing
Critiquing is similar to editing, but doesn't have to be as in-depth a process and usually is done by someone else. Some of the aspects to look for when critiquing is the POV (point of view), consistency, characterization, plot, sentence structure, dialog and dialog attribution, active and passive voice, pacing, and so on. There are many things a reader can find in a manuscript that needs to be improved, but once the writer becomes familiar with these, it won't seem as a challenge to correct. Critique or writers' groups are a great way to have both your writing improved and your knowledge of critiquing methods strengthened.
Keep a consistent POV for one character in each scene. Sometimes I've heard to have one POV per chapter. Either one is good, but just have one character's view at a time so as not to confused the reader.
Throughout the manuscript make sure that the scenes, events and characters are consistent with the flow of the storyline. All aspects should make sense.
For characterization, the characters should be believable and that their actions and words/dialog match what type of character they are. Dialog attribution such as "said" or "asked" is commonplace and should be used instead of descriptive words that are best left for the action.
The plot should remain consistent throughout the story. The first chapter should begin in the middle of the action or at least not begin from the beginning. Good sentence structure is written to match the pacing of the story such as using short sentences for quick and action driven scenes. The descriptive scenes can be longer for a slower pace, yet always moving the story forward.
Using active voice instead of passive voice when possible is a great way to keep the readers' interest and the pacing quick.
Keep a consistent POV for one character in each scene. Sometimes I've heard to have one POV per chapter. Either one is good, but just have one character's view at a time so as not to confused the reader.
Throughout the manuscript make sure that the scenes, events and characters are consistent with the flow of the storyline. All aspects should make sense.
For characterization, the characters should be believable and that their actions and words/dialog match what type of character they are. Dialog attribution such as "said" or "asked" is commonplace and should be used instead of descriptive words that are best left for the action.
The plot should remain consistent throughout the story. The first chapter should begin in the middle of the action or at least not begin from the beginning. Good sentence structure is written to match the pacing of the story such as using short sentences for quick and action driven scenes. The descriptive scenes can be longer for a slower pace, yet always moving the story forward.
Using active voice instead of passive voice when possible is a great way to keep the readers' interest and the pacing quick.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Self-Powered Flexible Electronics
Technology is everywhere today and it's only a matter of time before an even more user-friendly aspect of many of these devices becomes self-powered. What would make this possible is via touch-responsive nano-generator films that could powered touch screens. The same screens that are found in smart phones, laptops and tablet computers. When a screen flexes under a user's touch this is what will activate the electrical energy needed.
It's still about five years from the market and as stated in the article, "The field is young, and some major challenges remain. The power output of a single piezoelectric nanowire is quite small (around a picowatt), so harvesting significant power requires integrating many wires into a large array; materials scientists are still experimenting with how to engineer these screens to make larger devices."
It's great to know that one day we won't have to reply on power outlets or batteries to recharge our tech devices that will instead be continually charged as we use them.
More tech info on this article: Flex Electronics.
It's still about five years from the market and as stated in the article, "The field is young, and some major challenges remain. The power output of a single piezoelectric nanowire is quite small (around a picowatt), so harvesting significant power requires integrating many wires into a large array; materials scientists are still experimenting with how to engineer these screens to make larger devices."
It's great to know that one day we won't have to reply on power outlets or batteries to recharge our tech devices that will instead be continually charged as we use them.
More tech info on this article: Flex Electronics.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Self-Editing
Editing is an important final step in the process of writing a manuscript before submitting it to an agent. Reading from a hardcopy instead of on the computer screen is a great way to catch any mistakes and this way a pen can be used to mark them and any notes. There are many rules to editing and listed are some of these to watch out for.
Keep a consistent POV (point of view) for one character in each scene. Sometimes I've heard to have one POV per chapter. Either one is good, but just have one character's view at a time so as not to confused the reader.
Look for repetition when editing and remove words or phrases that are seen often on the same page or even within the same chapter. Now and then I'll notice repittion of a certain phrase even if it occurs one hundred pages apart.
Keep the exclamation points, italics, and profanity to a minimum. Less is more in writing. No bold or underlining.
Since less is more is most effective try to keep the words and descriptions to a minimum for better impact and flow of reading.
Show instead of tell. Let the reader imagine the scene as it happens and show them through action or emotion.
When using the computer use spell check. Just make sure that you've used the words you mean to use, such as their, there or they're. ALthough written properly, the spell checker won't discern the meaning.
Use active words and voice whenever possible instead of the passive voice.
Read others' writing whether it's a book or someone's manuscript. Doing so will help you to see your writing in a different perspective and give you practice when self-editing.
Keep a consistent POV (point of view) for one character in each scene. Sometimes I've heard to have one POV per chapter. Either one is good, but just have one character's view at a time so as not to confused the reader.
Look for repetition when editing and remove words or phrases that are seen often on the same page or even within the same chapter. Now and then I'll notice repittion of a certain phrase even if it occurs one hundred pages apart.
Keep the exclamation points, italics, and profanity to a minimum. Less is more in writing. No bold or underlining.
Since less is more is most effective try to keep the words and descriptions to a minimum for better impact and flow of reading.
Show instead of tell. Let the reader imagine the scene as it happens and show them through action or emotion.
When using the computer use spell check. Just make sure that you've used the words you mean to use, such as their, there or they're. ALthough written properly, the spell checker won't discern the meaning.
Use active words and voice whenever possible instead of the passive voice.
Read others' writing whether it's a book or someone's manuscript. Doing so will help you to see your writing in a different perspective and give you practice when self-editing.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Magic Windows: A New View; Video
With all the technology available today it's no surprise that simulated video screens would be an option in addition to the flat panels. This new product is an old idea from having been shown in entertainment media. As such, many have wondered what it'd be like to wake up to or just walk by a window to see a sight not otherwise seen outside their walls. This is what Winscape is all about. Bringing a different view by way of placing two frames or screens that appear to be windows on the wall and then hooking them to a computer. The software tracker puts the viewer in the right place at any distance or angle for a constant and realistic viewing experience.
The Winscape will be available in July for about $3,000. The article is at Magic Windows.
The Winscape will be available in July for about $3,000. The article is at Magic Windows.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Onegin by Alexander Pushkin
Paperback
288 pages
Oxford University Press
ISBN: 9780192838995
Eugene Onegin (pronounced on-yay-gen) is Pushkin's classic lyrical novel and highly praised by Russians as one of their own favorite works of literature. Set in the early 19th century, the story centers around the title character and his relationships gone wrong with his neighbor, Vladimir Lensky, and Tatyana who is the sister of his neighbor's wife. Onegin and Vladimir confront each other over disagreement. Tatyana's love for Onegin is not returned and he tells her so, but when he finally realizes his love for her she is not in a position to return it.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Scene It, Heard It
There is a countless number of ways that a story can be written and for each the scenes are the pieces of the literary puzzle. Every scenes comprises the characters, events, plot, setting and action that drives the story to the next scene and so on. It's in this chain of events that every scenes gives the story purpose and a destination toward the final goal in the story. I think that every story written has some basis in actual life, even if it's in one scene or a combination of several elements that are added throughout the story. Everyday there are happenings and circumstances that we encounter that can always be found in a book.
The best and most creative stories can be inspired by the most mundane of events and situations, but the key factor in creating intriguing and exciting prose is in the content and craft of the scenes. Whether it's based on something that's viewed or heard during day to day events, these encounters can be a springboard for imaginative writing. Of course not just any everyday event is going to be right for a scene or that it should be included in a story, but can be considered if there's any glint of a interesting idea that can be used.
Sometimes what is heard and seen in an everyday circumstance can be salvaged for future writings if the current story won't allow for such an event. In writing it's said that less is more and to show and not tell what is happening in a story. In both of these cases, it is better to always try and write only what is neccessary and to let the reader experience what is both seen and heard for themselves, without the author interfering.
The best and most creative stories can be inspired by the most mundane of events and situations, but the key factor in creating intriguing and exciting prose is in the content and craft of the scenes. Whether it's based on something that's viewed or heard during day to day events, these encounters can be a springboard for imaginative writing. Of course not just any everyday event is going to be right for a scene or that it should be included in a story, but can be considered if there's any glint of a interesting idea that can be used.
Sometimes what is heard and seen in an everyday circumstance can be salvaged for future writings if the current story won't allow for such an event. In writing it's said that less is more and to show and not tell what is happening in a story. In both of these cases, it is better to always try and write only what is neccessary and to let the reader experience what is both seen and heard for themselves, without the author interfering.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Dove Evolution Video
It's said that a picture speaks a thousand words, so for this video, well...watch for yourself.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Jumper by Steven Gould
Paperback
352 pages
Tor Books
ISBN: 9780812522372
This is a great read that's well written by Steven Gould who tells the story of a teen who is given an incredible ability and has to figure out how to deal with it. David, the main character, one day discovers by accident that he can teleport anywhere in the world just by thinking of his destination. He isn't sure why he can teleport, but he has fun trying to figure it out while he's robbing a bank, getting a girlfriend, finding his estranged mother and tracking down a group of terrorists who the FBI and police are also pursuing. David discovers that with his ability, life becomes both easier and more difficult for him, depending on the circumstance. As his ability develops he has to figure out the right choices to make.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Network of Ideas
Ideas can strike at anytime and anywhere and whether the ideas are given creative life is, of course, determined by the one who thought of them. Ideas are best remembered by being written down and then returned to at a later time to be given a place in a manuscript or other form of creativity. Another great way to give ideas life is through networking with others with similar interests or even those with different views so that any thoughts on a certain topic can be considered. The same is true for a manuscript when placing the newly thought of plot elements or characterzations into a story. Some ideas will work and others might not.
It's always good to network with peers of your creative commons so that a better idea is gained by seeking various perspectives. And also, what might not seem to work for others might very well be compatible with your goals for the story and especially the characters that populate it. When the story begins to develop a life from the pages of ideas made of plot sketches and character development, it's then that a network of ideas grows into a fully functioning storyline. From here other ideas that other thought of are likely to have more focus and tied into the main storyline where the characters bring together realistic situations and creating stronger plot dynamics.
It's always good to network with peers of your creative commons so that a better idea is gained by seeking various perspectives. And also, what might not seem to work for others might very well be compatible with your goals for the story and especially the characters that populate it. When the story begins to develop a life from the pages of ideas made of plot sketches and character development, it's then that a network of ideas grows into a fully functioning storyline. From here other ideas that other thought of are likely to have more focus and tied into the main storyline where the characters bring together realistic situations and creating stronger plot dynamics.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Giving Character to Characters
Stories need characters that bring some kind of adversity and conflict. Without such obstacles there wouldn't be much of a story. Whether the plot hinges on the protagonist (hero) searching for the truth to a crime or the antagonist (villian) trying to cover his tracks, there's needs to be difficulty along the way so as to strengthen and develop the characters' good and bad traits. Even protagonists need flaws and realistic goals that can be met only when confronted with challenges. Such obstacles can be physical, deception, wants and needs, unfamilair territory, and other barriers characters must overcome.
A good way to determine how a character might react to any situation is by spending time in considering how they think and what action they would take to resolve the conflict. The main character, whether protagonist or antagonist, doesn't have to change completely during the course of the story. They only need to understand what is required of them to carry out certain tasks that will work toward accomplishing their goals. In the midst of the plotline the story can be modified so that the main character is confronted with choices that he or she hadn't thought of at the beginning. There are also times when the character needs to remain steadfast in their thinking or actions so that the plot development and the character's motivations work together to create a great story.
A good way to determine how a character might react to any situation is by spending time in considering how they think and what action they would take to resolve the conflict. The main character, whether protagonist or antagonist, doesn't have to change completely during the course of the story. They only need to understand what is required of them to carry out certain tasks that will work toward accomplishing their goals. In the midst of the plotline the story can be modified so that the main character is confronted with choices that he or she hadn't thought of at the beginning. There are also times when the character needs to remain steadfast in their thinking or actions so that the plot development and the character's motivations work together to create a great story.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Destination Inspiration
Writing begins with putting thoughts to paper or onto the screen and pursuing the creativity. Preceding this, however, is the wellspring of imagination. The destination is sought by inspiration and it's during the inspired times that give writing its best opportunity to flourish. As for the 90% of uninspired times, well, that's best saved for another posting. Moving along, there are countless ways to seek creative inspiration, and since everyone has their own ways, it's a matter of determining what works for each person.
This could be anything from reading books and articles to talking with friends, listening to music, visiting a park a museum or you name it. Creativity has no limits, even though our destinations do and as does the thoughts and organized content we put onto the page or screen. Once the creative fuel sparks inspiration its then that focus is demanded of the writer so as not to stray from the path that was carved by imagination. The writing path that follows page after page is one that leads from creativity to practice and patience and then finally finds skill that can be found in the company of talent. And remember, talent is not always natural, but discovered down the destined road of diligence and determination.
This could be anything from reading books and articles to talking with friends, listening to music, visiting a park a museum or you name it. Creativity has no limits, even though our destinations do and as does the thoughts and organized content we put onto the page or screen. Once the creative fuel sparks inspiration its then that focus is demanded of the writer so as not to stray from the path that was carved by imagination. The writing path that follows page after page is one that leads from creativity to practice and patience and then finally finds skill that can be found in the company of talent. And remember, talent is not always natural, but discovered down the destined road of diligence and determination.
Monday, March 22, 2010
The Far Side of Evil by Sylvia Engdahl
Selected Song: LOST IN SPACE by The Original Movies Orchestra
Paperback
336 pages
Firebird
ISBN: 9780142402931
This well-written novel was first penned in 1971 and has remained a great read, although recently has gone out of print, but is still available. Elana is a new graduate from the FASA or Federation Anthropological Service Academy and assigned to be an observer on planet Toris that faces nuclear war. She has strict orders not to interfere or reveal that she is alien to that world. She wants to help the Torisians, though before she can must remember who she is after suffering from temporary amnesia. Her fellow agent, Randil, also wants to stop the war, but finds himself in love with one of the citizens named Kari. This threatens to prompt the nuclear holocaust that he's trying to prevent. Elana must decide whether to join his cause of peace or stop him from ultimately causing the destruction of the planet.
The characters are well-defined with engaging personalities and strong 'character', especially Elana who is compassionate, strong-willed and determined to bring justice and peace to a world that is under rule of a totalitarian society.
Paperback
336 pages
Firebird
ISBN: 9780142402931
This well-written novel was first penned in 1971 and has remained a great read, although recently has gone out of print, but is still available. Elana is a new graduate from the FASA or Federation Anthropological Service Academy and assigned to be an observer on planet Toris that faces nuclear war. She has strict orders not to interfere or reveal that she is alien to that world. She wants to help the Torisians, though before she can must remember who she is after suffering from temporary amnesia. Her fellow agent, Randil, also wants to stop the war, but finds himself in love with one of the citizens named Kari. This threatens to prompt the nuclear holocaust that he's trying to prevent. Elana must decide whether to join his cause of peace or stop him from ultimately causing the destruction of the planet.
The characters are well-defined with engaging personalities and strong 'character', especially Elana who is compassionate, strong-willed and determined to bring justice and peace to a world that is under rule of a totalitarian society.
Friday, March 19, 2010
MIT Building Self-Assembling Computer Chips
Selected Song: TERMINATOR 2 THEME by The Original Movie Orchestra
MIT researchers are developing computer chips to self-assemble by coaxing molecules to arrange themselves into tiny but useful patterns. The scientists used electron beam lithography to create nanoscale "posts" on a silicon chip. They then deposited copolymers--large molecules of two polymers with repeating structural units--on the chip. The copolymers spontaneously linked to the posts and arranged themselves into useful patterns.
The polymers naturally want to separate from each other, thus causing them to arrange in predictable ways. A variety of patterns that can be used in circuit design could be achieved by changing the shape and position of the posts, the proportions of the polymers, and the length of the molecule chains, MIT said.
When exposed to plasma, one polymer burns away, while the other turns to glass.
The team is still working to produce functioning circuits in a prototype chip, and to create even smaller chip features with the copolymer technique. This was from a short article, but you can read the rest at Self-Assembling Computer Chips
MIT researchers are developing computer chips to self-assemble by coaxing molecules to arrange themselves into tiny but useful patterns. The scientists used electron beam lithography to create nanoscale "posts" on a silicon chip. They then deposited copolymers--large molecules of two polymers with repeating structural units--on the chip. The copolymers spontaneously linked to the posts and arranged themselves into useful patterns.
The polymers naturally want to separate from each other, thus causing them to arrange in predictable ways. A variety of patterns that can be used in circuit design could be achieved by changing the shape and position of the posts, the proportions of the polymers, and the length of the molecule chains, MIT said.
When exposed to plasma, one polymer burns away, while the other turns to glass.
The team is still working to produce functioning circuits in a prototype chip, and to create even smaller chip features with the copolymer technique. This was from a short article, but you can read the rest at Self-Assembling Computer Chips
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
eMonitor Home Energy Tracker; Video
Selected Song: OUR HOUSE by Madness
From the product description:
The Powerhouse Dynamics eMonitor is the world's first affordable, whole-house, circuit-by-circuit energy monitoring and management system.
The eMonitor's unique combination of hardware, software, and services let you view your home's 24x7, minute-by-minute electricity use, electricity cost, and carbon footprint, as well as historical information by day, month, or year, all in a personalized and intuitive graphical interface from anywhere you can access the internet. It also provides cost estimates based on current and past usage.
The cutting-edge feature of the eMonitor is its capability to display electricity use by individual circuit so you can see real-time and historical information on major appliances, entertainment centers, and specific rooms. The eMonitor is also equipped for future capability to remotely control individual outlets and thermostats, and will integrate with many existing home control systems.
The eMonitor dashboard, viewable on the web or on your iPhone, provides customized energy saving recommendations based on your home's energy usage.
"With projected savings of 5 to 20 percent from existing bills, a consumer who spends a lot on energy could save $400 to $500 a year," Flusberg said. "But at this point, it seems that most interest has been from people who want clues for finding where they are wasting energy."
An informative website where it's sold among other products is at Energy Circle
In my novel there's a housing community that has eco-technology.
From the product description:
The Powerhouse Dynamics eMonitor is the world's first affordable, whole-house, circuit-by-circuit energy monitoring and management system.
The eMonitor's unique combination of hardware, software, and services let you view your home's 24x7, minute-by-minute electricity use, electricity cost, and carbon footprint, as well as historical information by day, month, or year, all in a personalized and intuitive graphical interface from anywhere you can access the internet. It also provides cost estimates based on current and past usage.
The cutting-edge feature of the eMonitor is its capability to display electricity use by individual circuit so you can see real-time and historical information on major appliances, entertainment centers, and specific rooms. The eMonitor is also equipped for future capability to remotely control individual outlets and thermostats, and will integrate with many existing home control systems.
The eMonitor dashboard, viewable on the web or on your iPhone, provides customized energy saving recommendations based on your home's energy usage.
"With projected savings of 5 to 20 percent from existing bills, a consumer who spends a lot on energy could save $400 to $500 a year," Flusberg said. "But at this point, it seems that most interest has been from people who want clues for finding where they are wasting energy."
An informative website where it's sold among other products is at Energy Circle
In my novel there's a housing community that has eco-technology.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Jane Austen Books with Horror Themes; Video
Selected Song: CONCERTO ALLA RUSTICA: RV130 1ST MV. by Antonio Vivaldi
As Jane might instruct, Listen to this song that nicely complements the following posting, as I'm sure you'll find it most agreeable. Below the text is the professional book trailer for Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
While I haven't read any of these interesting titles I've read their reviews that range in opinion. Many seem to enjoy these contemporary creations that put a terrifying twist on the classics, as Pride and Prejudice and Zombies has sold well. However, the theme of Seamonsters set loose upon Sense and Sensiblity, for some, makes little sense and is without sensibility. Yet, Austen's novels endure despite this onslaught. People and authors are social and creative creatures with a desire of needing to connect with others as has Austen's novels for two centuries; Sense and Sensibility being published in 1811.
The monsters depicted in these books are as varied as Austen's beloved characters and those despised; these having characteristics of such fiends as Zombies, Sea Monsters, Mummies and Vampires. For instance, Zombies and how they're only focused on themselves and their brains; Sea Monsters and the way they slosh about, sliming their way into the lives of the unsuspecting; Mummies, always wrapped up in their dealings with not much to say; and finally, among the most well known and ahbored/loved, is the Vampire, with its smooth stealthy ways, waiting to suck the life out of those who venture too close. Though the situation isn't without hope, as the fourth book says: Jane Bites Back.
Now we'll just have to wait for the full version...
As Jane might instruct, Listen to this song that nicely complements the following posting, as I'm sure you'll find it most agreeable. Below the text is the professional book trailer for Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
While I haven't read any of these interesting titles I've read their reviews that range in opinion. Many seem to enjoy these contemporary creations that put a terrifying twist on the classics, as Pride and Prejudice and Zombies has sold well. However, the theme of Seamonsters set loose upon Sense and Sensiblity, for some, makes little sense and is without sensibility. Yet, Austen's novels endure despite this onslaught. People and authors are social and creative creatures with a desire of needing to connect with others as has Austen's novels for two centuries; Sense and Sensibility being published in 1811.
The monsters depicted in these books are as varied as Austen's beloved characters and those despised; these having characteristics of such fiends as Zombies, Sea Monsters, Mummies and Vampires. For instance, Zombies and how they're only focused on themselves and their brains; Sea Monsters and the way they slosh about, sliming their way into the lives of the unsuspecting; Mummies, always wrapped up in their dealings with not much to say; and finally, among the most well known and ahbored/loved, is the Vampire, with its smooth stealthy ways, waiting to suck the life out of those who venture too close. Though the situation isn't without hope, as the fourth book says: Jane Bites Back.
Now we'll just have to wait for the full version...
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Solar Shingles See the Light of Day; Daylight Saving Time
Selected Song: BEAUTIFUL DAY by U2
Although not the first company to do so, Dow Chemical is developing roof shingles containing photovoltaic cells that can be hammered with nails like ordinary shingles. The difference with Dow is that the company plans to bring it's product mainstream. Global Solar is also helping Dow in bringing this project to the light of day and their own their way in swaying potential markets due to the solar shingle installations taking half the time of conventional solar installations. Another competing company is United Solar Ovonic with its integrated solar cells not requiring glass covers, unlike like Dow's shingles, allowing Ovonic's product to have greater flexibility.
Daylight Saving Time is here again and will continue to brighten our days with every passing week. During this time, the longer hours of daylight reduces the need to use indoor lighting, therefore saving energy costs. DST was first used during World War I so that energy could be saved for war production. Then for World War II the use of DST was initiated once again by the Federal Government, requiring this of all the states.
Read more about DST
More on Solar Shingles
In my novel, Helen and The Hunter, there's a newly developed housing community that uses solar paneled roofs.
Although not the first company to do so, Dow Chemical is developing roof shingles containing photovoltaic cells that can be hammered with nails like ordinary shingles. The difference with Dow is that the company plans to bring it's product mainstream. Global Solar is also helping Dow in bringing this project to the light of day and their own their way in swaying potential markets due to the solar shingle installations taking half the time of conventional solar installations. Another competing company is United Solar Ovonic with its integrated solar cells not requiring glass covers, unlike like Dow's shingles, allowing Ovonic's product to have greater flexibility.
Daylight Saving Time is here again and will continue to brighten our days with every passing week. During this time, the longer hours of daylight reduces the need to use indoor lighting, therefore saving energy costs. DST was first used during World War I so that energy could be saved for war production. Then for World War II the use of DST was initiated once again by the Federal Government, requiring this of all the states.
Read more about DST
More on Solar Shingles
In my novel, Helen and The Hunter, there's a newly developed housing community that uses solar paneled roofs.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Using Light to Disinfect Water
Selected Song: SHINE by Collective Soul
An international research team has developed a photocatalyst to disinfect water using sunlight or artificial light and even after the lights are turned off. While there have been variations of this technology, it's the newly developed photocatalyst that is activated using visible light, unlike UV rays, and causing the needed chemical reaction. Nanoparticles of palladium are involved in the disinfection process. Using the photocatalyst, after an hour of shining a halogen desk lamp over a high concentration of E. coli, the bacteria dropped from 10 million cells per liter to one cell per 10,000 liters. This test, also conducted in the dark, was a success. An advantage to its ability to disinfect quickly, is that large volumes of water could be cleaned by exposing the tainted water to light as it flowed through pipes.
Visit Using Light to Disinfect Water for a detailed explanation.
An international research team has developed a photocatalyst to disinfect water using sunlight or artificial light and even after the lights are turned off. While there have been variations of this technology, it's the newly developed photocatalyst that is activated using visible light, unlike UV rays, and causing the needed chemical reaction. Nanoparticles of palladium are involved in the disinfection process. Using the photocatalyst, after an hour of shining a halogen desk lamp over a high concentration of E. coli, the bacteria dropped from 10 million cells per liter to one cell per 10,000 liters. This test, also conducted in the dark, was a success. An advantage to its ability to disinfect quickly, is that large volumes of water could be cleaned by exposing the tainted water to light as it flowed through pipes.
Visit Using Light to Disinfect Water for a detailed explanation.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Who's that Girl?
Selected Song: WHO'S THAT GIRL by Madonna
Characters have purpose in every story, but if their author doesn't give them direction or even traits that help to define who he or she is, then that character will be a silhouette. Active is definitely better than passive, in most cases, and the character needs to have drive, as they strive toward the goal that likely, and should, evades them. It's in this pursuit where the character gains and builds upon who they are and what they'll become by the end of the story. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish one character from another due to each sharing similar attributes, however, at least one or two these should be exclusive to that character, therefore adding to the dynamic of the plot and throughout the story.
Of course, each character will be set apart by physical aspects, but these are not the qualities that make them who they are. Supporting characters might help in shaping the main character(s), but it's the specific and recognizable strengths and weaknesses that will ultimately prove who that person is and what they are and aren't willing to do to reach their goal(s). This is part of the character dynamic that compels the reader to continue reading, knowing that the author has done the job of bringing to life characters who can be trusted to be who they are, and not a copy of those around them. Giving a quirk or habit is the start toward shaping a character's personality and motivations that will grow into a more complex individual, preparing them for awaiting challenges.
The question to ask when creating and building a character is who are they and how best can they be portrayed. As the topic title asks, 'Who's that Girl?' and what's she about? Everything else will follow, and hopefully, so will the readers.
Characters have purpose in every story, but if their author doesn't give them direction or even traits that help to define who he or she is, then that character will be a silhouette. Active is definitely better than passive, in most cases, and the character needs to have drive, as they strive toward the goal that likely, and should, evades them. It's in this pursuit where the character gains and builds upon who they are and what they'll become by the end of the story. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish one character from another due to each sharing similar attributes, however, at least one or two these should be exclusive to that character, therefore adding to the dynamic of the plot and throughout the story.
Of course, each character will be set apart by physical aspects, but these are not the qualities that make them who they are. Supporting characters might help in shaping the main character(s), but it's the specific and recognizable strengths and weaknesses that will ultimately prove who that person is and what they are and aren't willing to do to reach their goal(s). This is part of the character dynamic that compels the reader to continue reading, knowing that the author has done the job of bringing to life characters who can be trusted to be who they are, and not a copy of those around them. Giving a quirk or habit is the start toward shaping a character's personality and motivations that will grow into a more complex individual, preparing them for awaiting challenges.
The question to ask when creating and building a character is who are they and how best can they be portrayed. As the topic title asks, 'Who's that Girl?' and what's she about? Everything else will follow, and hopefully, so will the readers.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
Selected Song: STAND IN THE RAIN by Superchick
Hardcover
419 pages
HarperTeen
ISBN: 9780061431852
Taylor, at age eleven, was abandoned by her mother at a 7-Eleven on Jellicoe Road. Now, 17, Taylor is a leader at the Jellicoe boarding school that is caught in a turf war between the townies and the cadets. When Hannah, who had taken care of her for the past six years and was like a parent and friend to her, leaves the school and no one tells Taylor why, she finds Hannah's journal and uses it to try and discover the mysteries of the past. Jellicoe Road has a cast of characters who have answers to both the present and the past in this intriguing and thought-provoking story of friendship, love and courage.
Hardcover
419 pages
HarperTeen
ISBN: 9780061431852
Taylor, at age eleven, was abandoned by her mother at a 7-Eleven on Jellicoe Road. Now, 17, Taylor is a leader at the Jellicoe boarding school that is caught in a turf war between the townies and the cadets. When Hannah, who had taken care of her for the past six years and was like a parent and friend to her, leaves the school and no one tells Taylor why, she finds Hannah's journal and uses it to try and discover the mysteries of the past. Jellicoe Road has a cast of characters who have answers to both the present and the past in this intriguing and thought-provoking story of friendship, love and courage.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Some of My Movie Synopses
Selected Song (Instrumental): AUTUMN MARATHON by Andrei Pavlovich Petrov
These are some of my short reviews/summaries that I wrote for the Weekend section of the Florida Times Union.
Sweeney Todd
Tim Burton’s malevolent film of macabre magnificence finds Benjamin Barker’s (Depp) family thrown into chaos by a sinister judge. Emerging years later, Sweeney Todd (Depp), vengeance incarnate, reclaims his barber’s blade and cuts through more than the hairs of those needing a good cut. Sweeney seeks justice with help from pie shop owner, eccentric Mrs. Lovett (Helena Bonham Carter). This atmospheric and musical marvel will captivate those who enjoyed Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables.
Alvin and the Chipmunks
AVP: Requiem
John Rambo
John Rambo storms the big screen once again in this no-weapons-barred onslaught. After the Burmese army destroy a Thailand village and take missionaries hostage, Rambo and accompanying mercenaries are their only lifeline. With guns and intensity blazing against them, the Burmese have no chance in this one-man vendetta, but they never let their ammo cool down. It’s a film not for the faint of heart, but one for those with a spirit to preserve freedom.
There Will Be Blood
These are some of my short reviews/summaries that I wrote for the Weekend section of the Florida Times Union.
Sweeney Todd Tim Burton’s malevolent film of macabre magnificence finds Benjamin Barker’s (Depp) family thrown into chaos by a sinister judge. Emerging years later, Sweeney Todd (Depp), vengeance incarnate, reclaims his barber’s blade and cuts through more than the hairs of those needing a good cut. Sweeney seeks justice with help from pie shop owner, eccentric Mrs. Lovett (Helena Bonham Carter). This atmospheric and musical marvel will captivate those who enjoyed Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables.
Alvin and the Chipmunks The chipmunk trio belt out a loud and proud performance on the big screen in this fantastic CGI rendition. Dave Seville (Jason Lee) is a music producer who finds himself the target of anything but success then finds his calling (Alvin!) in three dare-to-be-adorable “squirrels”–err–chipmunks. Dave embraces the role of manager, becomes protector from the villiany that is a corporate record label, and finally, yet reluctantly, relents to being a father figure.
AVP: RequiemInterstellar warfare descends on a Colorado town in this terrifyingly terrific sequel: AVP: Requiem. This killer thriller pits the aliens against a lone Predator whose objective is to eradicate the green gruesomes and by chance, human heartfelts. Loaded with all that is alien, Requiem infests the screen on an invasion from the forest into the sewers and inevitably into the sleepy town. The nightmare that ensues is one that even the National Guard cannot stop.
Atonement
Set in the 1930s English countryside, Atonement tells the story of an envious girl whose mislead by her own deceit when exposing a controversial tryst. The identity crisis separates her older sister from a young man, though the tides of time cannot keep them from drifting apart. Not even his enlisting in the war in place of imprisonment. A poignant film filled with moments of hope, adoration and one sister’s path to atonement.
AtonementSet in the 1930s English countryside, Atonement tells the story of an envious girl whose mislead by her own deceit when exposing a controversial tryst. The identity crisis separates her older sister from a young man, though the tides of time cannot keep them from drifting apart. Not even his enlisting in the war in place of imprisonment. A poignant film filled with moments of hope, adoration and one sister’s path to atonement.
John RamboJohn Rambo storms the big screen once again in this no-weapons-barred onslaught. After the Burmese army destroy a Thailand village and take missionaries hostage, Rambo and accompanying mercenaries are their only lifeline. With guns and intensity blazing against them, the Burmese have no chance in this one-man vendetta, but they never let their ammo cool down. It’s a film not for the faint of heart, but one for those with a spirit to preserve freedom.
There Will Be BloodDaniel Day-Lewis commands an engaging performance as an oil prospector, Daniel Plainview, in There Will Be Blood. Black gold surges through his veins, as he’s able to wield his words to match its lucrative persuasion for land owners. With the help of his boy, Mr. Plainview creates a profitable business worth protecting, even if it’s at his own oil-drenched and bloodied hands. Not since Gangs of New York has Lewis portrayed such an exceptional character.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Racoons, Alice, and a Hatter Gone Mad
Selected Songs: THE LOOK by Roxette and VIEW TO A KILL by Duran Duran
I was searching through photos and saw some I had taken of a raccoon. I happened to take one with it's tongue out. That raccoon is either very thirsty or is laughing about raccoon attacks, at our (humans) expense (medical or otherwise) on behalf of his masked bandit buddies.
While creating this post I thought about how Alice from the Resident Evil movies infiltrated Raccoon City despite the Umbrella Corp. being in relentless pursuit. There's that look in her eye...staring daggers - while holding daggers. But that's Milla's movies: runnin', gunnin' and stunnin'.
I'm sure Alice found Raccoon City to be no wonderland, though that's the place Johnny Depp finds himself when playing the Mad Hatter in Tim Burton's whimsical remake of Alice in Wonderland.
That's right Johnny, Wonderland is that way. Beyond the chocolate waterfalls, over the green apple glade and past the Oompa Loompas into the land of...well he looks freaked enough as it is. Burton will tell him. Happy (or Mad?) Hatting!
I was searching through photos and saw some I had taken of a raccoon. I happened to take one with it's tongue out. That raccoon is either very thirsty or is laughing about raccoon attacks, at our (humans) expense (medical or otherwise) on behalf of his masked bandit buddies.
While creating this post I thought about how Alice from the Resident Evil movies infiltrated Raccoon City despite the Umbrella Corp. being in relentless pursuit. There's that look in her eye...staring daggers - while holding daggers. But that's Milla's movies: runnin', gunnin' and stunnin'.
I'm sure Alice found Raccoon City to be no wonderland, though that's the place Johnny Depp finds himself when playing the Mad Hatter in Tim Burton's whimsical remake of Alice in Wonderland.
That's right Johnny, Wonderland is that way. Beyond the chocolate waterfalls, over the green apple glade and past the Oompa Loompas into the land of...well he looks freaked enough as it is. Burton will tell him. Happy (or Mad?) Hatting!
Monday, March 1, 2010
A Laptop Theft, LeeLee/LeeLoo; Video
Selected Song: THIEVES by Lunic
I went to the community college to visit a friend and while in the library I learned (no not from books) of a guy who was there after having stolen a girl’s laptop from the previous week. How do I know it was a girl’s? The laptop was pink! So there the guy was sitting at a table near the wall using the computer. The campus police showed up and confronted the thief with the girl in company. She got her computer and the guy got a shiny pair of handcuffs. Crime doesn’t pay and I suppose you can’t put a price on idiocy either, given that the person returned to the crime scene with the stolen property. Seems like he needs to be educated in the school of higher learning.
I was drinking an orange Sobe the other day 
and thought of the actress LeeLee Sobieski and knowing that Sobe prints slogans beneath their bottle caps how could I not think of LeeLee Sobe’ski. So I decided to make my own (in Photoshop).
On the topic of LeeLee or LeeLoo, as in Milla Jovovich's character in The Fifth Element, I watched it once again on television despite having it on Blu-ray Disc. Then I got to thinking about how both actresses starred in two versions of the movie Joan of Arc. With Milla in Luc Besson’s version and LeeLee in a TV miniseries.
Milla’s movie characters can be fierce yet classy, but let either of these actresses try to face off against this class action hero:
I went to the community college to visit a friend and while in the library I learned (no not from books) of a guy who was there after having stolen a girl’s laptop from the previous week. How do I know it was a girl’s? The laptop was pink! So there the guy was sitting at a table near the wall using the computer. The campus police showed up and confronted the thief with the girl in company. She got her computer and the guy got a shiny pair of handcuffs. Crime doesn’t pay and I suppose you can’t put a price on idiocy either, given that the person returned to the crime scene with the stolen property. Seems like he needs to be educated in the school of higher learning.
I was drinking an orange Sobe the other day and thought of the actress LeeLee Sobieski and knowing that Sobe prints slogans beneath their bottle caps how could I not think of LeeLee Sobe’ski. So I decided to make my own (in Photoshop).
On the topic of LeeLee or LeeLoo, as in Milla Jovovich's character in The Fifth Element, I watched it once again on television despite having it on Blu-ray Disc. Then I got to thinking about how both actresses starred in two versions of the movie Joan of Arc. With Milla in Luc Besson’s version and LeeLee in a TV miniseries. Milla’s movie characters can be fierce yet classy, but let either of these actresses try to face off against this class action hero:
Friday, February 26, 2010
U.S. Solar Market to Double in the Next Year
Selected Song: THE SOLAR POWERED LIFE by The Classic Crime
In the next few years, The United States will likley be the world's largest market for solar power. The prices for solar panels have dropped up to forty percent, mostly due to more supply than demand due to the economy. The cost of a five-kilowatt solar rooftop has dropped from $22,000 to $16,000 in the last 18 months. Prices should fall to $13,000 by the end of the year. Federal incentives could include a renewable energy standard, which would require utilities across the country to use renewable energy. Also, a national standard for connecting solar installations to the grid could be possible.
Experts think that many solar projects over the next several years won't succeed, up to 75 percent, due to the infancy of the industry. Smaller solar projects have a better chance than large solar farms, due to these needing to meet land-permit requirements and having to utilize transmission lines. By 2013, the U.S. could account for 25 percent of the world's solar market, up from about 8 percent today. The last part of this article states that, The growing U.S. market has started to attract solar manufacturing. Suntech Power, for example, which currently makes all of its solar panels in China, is building a solar factory in Phoenix this year. "We're the first Chinese company to export jobs to the U.S.," Efird says.
Read the full two page article U.S. Solar Market
Novel tie-in: A homesite development is equipped with solar-powered roofs.
In the next few years, The United States will likley be the world's largest market for solar power. The prices for solar panels have dropped up to forty percent, mostly due to more supply than demand due to the economy. The cost of a five-kilowatt solar rooftop has dropped from $22,000 to $16,000 in the last 18 months. Prices should fall to $13,000 by the end of the year. Federal incentives could include a renewable energy standard, which would require utilities across the country to use renewable energy. Also, a national standard for connecting solar installations to the grid could be possible.
Experts think that many solar projects over the next several years won't succeed, up to 75 percent, due to the infancy of the industry. Smaller solar projects have a better chance than large solar farms, due to these needing to meet land-permit requirements and having to utilize transmission lines. By 2013, the U.S. could account for 25 percent of the world's solar market, up from about 8 percent today. The last part of this article states that, The growing U.S. market has started to attract solar manufacturing. Suntech Power, for example, which currently makes all of its solar panels in China, is building a solar factory in Phoenix this year. "We're the first Chinese company to export jobs to the U.S.," Efird says.
Read the full two page article U.S. Solar Market
Novel tie-in: A homesite development is equipped with solar-powered roofs.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld; Video Trailer
Selected Song: LEVIATHAN by James Newton Howard
Hardcover
448 pages
Simon Pulse
ISBN: 9781416971733
Leviathan is set in 1914, where the world is on the bring of World War I. Only in this alternate history the war involves the British and French "beasties", genetically engineered creatures that function as war machines and the Germans and Autrians have the "clankers", steampunk and oil contraptions of all kinds that battle against the metal and flesh of the beasties.
The first of two main characters are Aleksandar Ferdinand whose father was an assassinated heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire and now Alek, an Austrain prince, is hunted by those who murdered his parents. The other main character is Deryn Sharp, the British daughter of an airman, who disguises herself as a boy and uses the name Dylan so that she can enlist in the British Air Service.
This fantastical story is filled imaginative creatures, inventive gadgets, and engaging characters that are across the lands that Alek and Dylan journey through to reach their goals and becomes allies of not only their countries but of each other. Scott Westerfeld has imagined a vivid and adventurous world that is the first book in a trilogy. The other two will be Behemoth and Goliath.
Hardcover
448 pages
Simon Pulse
ISBN: 9781416971733
Leviathan is set in 1914, where the world is on the bring of World War I. Only in this alternate history the war involves the British and French "beasties", genetically engineered creatures that function as war machines and the Germans and Autrians have the "clankers", steampunk and oil contraptions of all kinds that battle against the metal and flesh of the beasties.
The first of two main characters are Aleksandar Ferdinand whose father was an assassinated heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire and now Alek, an Austrain prince, is hunted by those who murdered his parents. The other main character is Deryn Sharp, the British daughter of an airman, who disguises herself as a boy and uses the name Dylan so that she can enlist in the British Air Service.
This fantastical story is filled imaginative creatures, inventive gadgets, and engaging characters that are across the lands that Alek and Dylan journey through to reach their goals and becomes allies of not only their countries but of each other. Scott Westerfeld has imagined a vivid and adventurous world that is the first book in a trilogy. The other two will be Behemoth and Goliath.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Steampunk
Selected Song: THE ANIMUS by Steampunk
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction and speculative fiction and one usually set in 19th century Victorian era England. The genre began in the late 1980's and the term coined by K. W. Jeter who wrote Infernal Devices. Although the true roots can be found in works by Jules Verne, H. G. Wells and Mary Shelley, as they had created fictional technology, whereas contemporary writers have used real technological inventions such as computers and the setting taking place either after the Industrial Revolution or near the start of it. Films have portrayed these worlds such as in the movie Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow, Van Helsing and also in anime as with Hayao Miyazaki's Castle in the Sky and Steamboy. Among books and films, the steampunk culture has a vast variety of offerings, ranging from designs of all kinds to social events.
Explore the world of steampunk!
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction and speculative fiction and one usually set in 19th century Victorian era England. The genre began in the late 1980's and the term coined by K. W. Jeter who wrote Infernal Devices. Although the true roots can be found in works by Jules Verne, H. G. Wells and Mary Shelley, as they had created fictional technology, whereas contemporary writers have used real technological inventions such as computers and the setting taking place either after the Industrial Revolution or near the start of it. Films have portrayed these worlds such as in the movie Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow, Van Helsing and also in anime as with Hayao Miyazaki's Castle in the Sky and Steamboy. Among books and films, the steampunk culture has a vast variety of offerings, ranging from designs of all kinds to social events.
Explore the world of steampunk!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Steam Train Powered by Vegetable Oil; Video
Selected Songs: STEEL RAILS by Mike Headrick
POWERED BY STEAM by Chris Murphy (below video)
With the help of recycled vegetable oil, steam has drifted into the 21st century trailing behind the smoke stack of a locomotive. The Grand Canyon Railway is looking forward to having an eco-friendly railway. On Sept. 17th in 1901, trains began traveling to the Grand Canyon and the railway continued to operate until 1968. There has been much research for the last twenty years and throughout the world to put into motion the plans for future steam powered locomotives. Below the video is a link to a website with many links for modern steam locomotive developments. This video has some nice footage of trains and scenery, as well as being informative. To view this video in full screen click on the four arrows next to the volume.
internationalsteam.co.uk
POWERED BY STEAM by Chris Murphy (below video)
With the help of recycled vegetable oil, steam has drifted into the 21st century trailing behind the smoke stack of a locomotive. The Grand Canyon Railway is looking forward to having an eco-friendly railway. On Sept. 17th in 1901, trains began traveling to the Grand Canyon and the railway continued to operate until 1968. There has been much research for the last twenty years and throughout the world to put into motion the plans for future steam powered locomotives. Below the video is a link to a website with many links for modern steam locomotive developments. This video has some nice footage of trains and scenery, as well as being informative. To view this video in full screen click on the four arrows next to the volume.
internationalsteam.co.uk
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Boneshaker by Cherie Priest
Paperback
416 pages
Tor Books
ISBN: 9780765318411
Boneshaker is a steampunk adventure set in late 1800’s Seattle Washington where the downtown district had been destroyed by a drill tunneling machine called the Boneshaker. Briar Wilkes is the widow of Leviticus Blue, the machine’s creator, and has a son named Ezekiel (Zeke) who ventures away from his home in The Outskirts and into the Blight infected downtown to seek answers and to clear his father’s name. He enters into the city through a large drainage pipe that's soon crushed from an earthquake. Each chapter from this point switches from Zeke and his mother on their journey; his in finding the truth and hers in finding him. In the way are thieves, zombies, pirates with an airship and all have to deal with the heroic determination of both Briar and Zeke who try to find thier way and clear Leviticus's name.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Engineers Making Air Travel Greener
Selected Song: FLIGHT by Cirque Du Soleil
The Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council is funding a project that will greatly reduce carbon emissions during air travel. Carbon fibers will be used in the development and manufacturing of lighter, yet highly durable, wing panels that will lower the cost and usage of fuel while reducing CO2 emissions. Also, the use of biofuels in aircraft can potenitally reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60 to 80 percent. The aviation transport industry releases two percent of man-made carbon dioxide.
Read more of this article on Making Air Travel Greener
Helen's great uncle owns and pilots a Cesna airplane.
The Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council is funding a project that will greatly reduce carbon emissions during air travel. Carbon fibers will be used in the development and manufacturing of lighter, yet highly durable, wing panels that will lower the cost and usage of fuel while reducing CO2 emissions. Also, the use of biofuels in aircraft can potenitally reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60 to 80 percent. The aviation transport industry releases two percent of man-made carbon dioxide.
Read more of this article on Making Air Travel Greener
Helen's great uncle owns and pilots a Cesna airplane.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Artwalk and More in Downtown Jacksonville; Videos Link
On the first Wednesday's of the month, the Art Walk (5pm-9pm) is showcased downtown at historic Hemming Plaza in front of the Main Library and MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) where local artists, musicians and performers converge to share their talents to a crowd of hundreds. Free snacks and wine-tasting are also available. Amid this cultural and festive atmosphere are walk-in galleries, museums, restaurants and clubs. The Landing riverfront, four blocks away, also offers some of these venues.
If you've ever tried to paint or do paint, imagine painting (at a professional standard) without the use of your hands. Tony Ryals, a quadriplegic, has painted from a young age while holding a brush in his mouth. While a student at Paxon Jr. High he sold his first detailed drawing for $50 and soon after, his art was selling and competing in fine art shows. His main gallery is at The Landing (orange roofing in photo). Tony's amazing story and many paintings are at his main art website: www.artistofhope.com. His painting themes range from Marine Life, Coastal Scenery and Animals to other outdoor themes and Spiritual.
The Artwalk in downtown Jacksonville: YouTube videos
Monday, February 1, 2010
The Civil War, WWII and The Art of War
Selected Song: FREEDOM by Michael W. Smith
These books from my collection feature not only facts from these wars, but also offer replica memoribilia. The first is FLORIDA IN THE CIVIL WAR and the following is a summary of the back cover copy: Florida was the third state to secede from the Union and with a 6,000 mile coastline it was difficult to defend. However, citizens struggled over the issue, as war was not wanted now that the state had a diminished role within the Confederacy. Despite these problems, Florida provided provisions that kept the Southern armies going. Tallahassee was the only Confederate capital in the east to stay out of Union hands until after the war. This book has many first-person accounts that bring to life the rich history of Florida's participation in the Civil War.
The next book, subtitled as LETTERS OF THE CIVIL WAR, has authentic replica letters written by both Confederate and Union soldiers. The book provides a compelling history that supplement the documents.
The World War II book below also contains twenty removable authentic replica letters and other documents from life during wartime. The D-DAY EXPERIENCE, with an extended title, from The Invasion to The Liberation of Paris, offers over thirty facsimile items that include maps, diaries, letters, secret memos, reports, posters and logbooks. All had once been filed, exhibited in the Imperial War Museum or kept in private collections around the world. D-Day was the largest amphibious invasion in history that took place on June 6th 1944, involved over a million men from the U.S., Britian, Canada, France, Poland and Germany.
Similar to the previous collection, AMERICA AT WAR contains twenty-four authentic replicas from the home front to the front lines. Two interesting items among these are The ID card of General George Patton, A letter from Albert Einstein to President Roosevelt warning of Germany's attempts to develop the atomic bomb. THE ART OF WAR by Sun Tzu, a Chinese general, covers many principles of war.
Other Posts: The Art of Writing and Artwalk in Downtown Jacksonville
These books from my collection feature not only facts from these wars, but also offer replica memoribilia. The first is FLORIDA IN THE CIVIL WAR and the following is a summary of the back cover copy: Florida was the third state to secede from the Union and with a 6,000 mile coastline it was difficult to defend. However, citizens struggled over the issue, as war was not wanted now that the state had a diminished role within the Confederacy. Despite these problems, Florida provided provisions that kept the Southern armies going. Tallahassee was the only Confederate capital in the east to stay out of Union hands until after the war. This book has many first-person accounts that bring to life the rich history of Florida's participation in the Civil War.
The next book, subtitled as LETTERS OF THE CIVIL WAR, has authentic replica letters written by both Confederate and Union soldiers. The book provides a compelling history that supplement the documents.
The World War II book below also contains twenty removable authentic replica letters and other documents from life during wartime. The D-DAY EXPERIENCE, with an extended title, from The Invasion to The Liberation of Paris, offers over thirty facsimile items that include maps, diaries, letters, secret memos, reports, posters and logbooks. All had once been filed, exhibited in the Imperial War Museum or kept in private collections around the world. D-Day was the largest amphibious invasion in history that took place on June 6th 1944, involved over a million men from the U.S., Britian, Canada, France, Poland and Germany.
Similar to the previous collection, AMERICA AT WAR contains twenty-four authentic replicas from the home front to the front lines. Two interesting items among these are The ID card of General George Patton, A letter from Albert Einstein to President Roosevelt warning of Germany's attempts to develop the atomic bomb. THE ART OF WAR by Sun Tzu, a Chinese general, covers many principles of war.
Other Posts: The Art of Writing and Artwalk in Downtown Jacksonville
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